Cognitive impairment linked to COPDPatients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may be at increased risk of mild cognitive impairment (MIC), a study has suggested (Mayo Clinic Proceedings 2013;88:1222).…
Bell’s palsy treatment and recoveryThis content was published in 2012. We do not recommend that you take any clinical decisions based on this information without first ensuring you have checked the latest guidance. Palsy means paralysis. Bell’s palsy is a condition in which the inner ear becomes inflamed, resulting in pressure …
Supporting patients with dementia and in palliative careEntitled ‘supporting patients with dementia and in palliative care’ this session at the RPS Conference showcased five research projects.…
Managing epilepsy: what pharmacists need to knowThis content was published in 2012. We do not recommend that you take any clinical decisions based on this information without first ensuring you have checked the latest guidance. Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder. The annual incidence is estimated to be 50 per 100,000 people and the pr…
Antidepressant choice for patients with epilepsyDepression is increased in people with epilepsy, with a lifetime prevalence of about 30%. Patients with epilepsy are three times more likely to be prescribed an antidepressant than the general population and twice as likely to report suicidal thoughts.…
Drinking alcohol during antidepressant treatment — a cause for concern?Emerging evidence suggests a risk of pathological intoxication when patients taking SSRIs consume alcohol. Andrew Herxheimer and David B. Menkes investigate.…
Stroke: acute management Time is of the essence when treating stroke. Therefore, patients should be transferred immediately to a hyperacute stroke unit for management, which will depend on the type and severity of the stroke.…
Stroke: long-term management Dry mouth, depression and spasticity are common sequelae of stroke. Managing these problems and preventing further vascular events are the main considerations in the long-term care of stroke patients…
Epilepsy: review what you know (part 2)This second part of an article on epilepsy (PJ, 4 June 2011, pp663–6) looks at special considerations and counselling needed for certain groups of patients.…
Schizophrenia: clinical features and diagnosis Schizophrenia is a chronic mental health condition characterised by a distortion of perceptions and thinking. It is thought to be caused by a combination of biological, social and psychological factors.…