StemCell Therapy

We are continually exposed to organisms that are inhaled, swallowed or inhabit our skin and mucous membranes. Whether or not these organisms lead to disease is decided by the integrity of our bodys defense mechanisms, or immune system. When our immune system is working properly, we dont even notice it. But when we have an under- or over-active immune system, we are at a greater risk of developing infections and other health conditions.

If you are wondering how to boost your immune system, look no further these 10 antimicrobial, immune-stimulating and antiviral supplements and essential oils can be used at home to improve your health.

The immune system is an interactive network oforgans, cells and proteins that protect the body from viruses and bacteria or any foreign substances. The immune system works to neutralize and remove pathogens like bacteria, viruses, parasites or fungi that enter the body, recognize and neutralize harmful substances from the environment, and fight against the bodys own cells that have changes due to an illness. (1)

The cells of the immune system originate in the bone marrow, then migrate to guard the peripheral tissues, circulating in the blood and in the specialized system of vessels called the lymphatic system.

When our immune system is working properly, we dont even notice it. Its when the performance of our immune system is compromised that we face illness. Underactivity of the immune system results in severe infections and tumors of immunodeficiency, while overactivity results in allergic and autoimmune diseases. (2)

For our bodys natural defenses to run smoothly, the immune system must be able to differentiate between self and non-self cells, organisms and substances. Non-self substances are called antigens, which includes the proteins on the surfaces of bacteria, fungi and viruses. When the cells of the immune system detect the presence of an antigen, the immune system recalls stored memories in order to quickly defend itself against known pathogens.

However, our own cells also have surface proteins, and its important that the immune system does not work against them. Normally, the immune system has already learned at an earlier stage to identify these cells proteins as self, but when it identifies its own body as non-self, this is called an autoimmune reaction. (3)

The amazing thing about the immune system is that its constantly adapting and learning so that the body can fight against bacteria or viruses that change over time. There are two parts of the immune system our innate immune system works as a general defense against pathogens and our adaptive immune system targets very specific pathogens that the body has already has contact with. These two immune systemscomplement each other in any reaction to a pathogen or harmful substance. (4)

Before learning exactly how to boost your immune system, first understand that most immune disorders result from either an excessive immune response or an autoimmune attack. Disorders of the immune system include:

Allergiesare a immune-mediated inflammatory response to normally harmless environmental substances known as allergens, which results in one or more allergic diseases such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis and food allergies. When the body overreacts to an allergen, such as dust, mold or pollen, it causes an immune reaction that leads to the development of allergy symptoms.

Allergies and asthma is a growing epidemic, affecting people of all ages, races, genders and socioeconomic statuses. In the U.S., it is estimated that more than 35 million people, mostly children, suffer from asthma symptoms. (5)An immune response to an allergic can be mild, from coughing and a runny nose, to a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis. A person becomes allergic to a substance when the body develops antigens against it and has a reaction upon repeated exposure to that substance.

An immune deficiency disease is when the immune system is missing one or more of its parts, and it reacts too slowly to a threat. Immune deficiency diseases can be caused by medications or illness, or it may be a genetic disorder, which is called primary immunodeficiency. (6)

Some immune deficiency diseases include severe combined immune deficiency, common variable immune deficiency, human immunodeficiency virus/acquired immune deficient syndrome (HIV/AIDS), drug-induced immune deficiency and graft versus host syndrome. All of these conditions are due to a severe impairment of the immune system, which leads to infections that are sometimes life-threatening.

Autoimmune diseases cause your immune system to attack your own bodys cells and tissues in response to an unknown trigger. Autoimmune diseases have registered an alarming increase worldwide since the end of the Second World War, with more than 80 autoimmune disorders and increases in both the incidence and prevalence of these conditions. (7)

Fiftymillion Americans are living with an autoimmune disease today, and for many of them, its hard to get an accurate diagnosis right away. In fact, it often takes about five years to receive a diagnosis because autoimmune disease symptoms are so disparate and vague. Examples of autoimmune diseases include rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, type 1 diabetes, psoriasis, Graves disease (overactive thyroid), Hashimotos disease (underactive thyroid) and vasculitis.

Treatment for autoimmune diseases typically focus on reducing the immune systems activity, but your first line of defense should be addressing leaky gut and removing foods and factors that damage the gut. Several studies have shown that increased intestinal permeability is associated with several autoimmune diseases, and it appears to be involved in disease pathogenesis. (8)

When searching for how to boost your immune system, look to these 10 herbs, supplements and essential oils.

Many of echinaceas chemical constituents are powerful immune system stimulants that can provide significant therapeutic value. Research shows that one of the most significant echinacea benefits is its effects when used on recurring infections. A 2012 study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that echinacea showed maximal effects on recurrent infections, and preventive effects increased when participants used echinacea to prevent the common cold. (9)

A 2003 study conducted at the University of Wisconsin Medical School found that echinacea demonstrates significant immunomodulatory activities. After reviewing several dozen human experiments, including a number of blind randomized trials, researchers indicate that echinacea has several benefits, including immunostimulation, especially in the treatment of acute upper respiratory infection. (10)

The berries and flowers of the elder plant have been used as medicine for thousands of years. Even Hippocrates, the father of medicine, understood that this plant was key for how to boost your immune system. He used elderberry because of its wide array of health benefits, including its ability to fight colds, the flu, allergies and inflammation. Several studies indicate that elderberry has the power to boost the immune system, especially because it has proven to help treat the symptoms of the common cold and flu.

A study published in the Journal of International Medical Research found that when elderberry was used within the first 48 hours of onset of symptoms, the extract reduced the duration of the flu, with symptoms being relieved on an average of four days earlier. Plus, the use of rescue medication was significantly less in those receiving elderberry extract compared with placebo. (11)

Dating back to ancient times, silver was a popular remedy to stop the spread of diseases. Silver has historically and extensively been used as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent. Research published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine suggests that colloidal silver wasable to significantly inhibit the growth the bacteria grown under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. (12)

To experience colloidal silver benefits, it can be used in several ways. How toboost your immune system with this supplement? Simply take one drop of true colloidal silver with internally. It can also be applied to the skin to help heal wounds, sores and infections. Always keep in mind that it should not be used for more than 14 days in a row.

You may come across many warnings about colloidal silver causing an irreversible condition called argyria (when people turn blue); however, this is caused by the misuse of products that are not true colloidal silver, like ionic or silver protein. (13)

Because leaky gut is a major cause of food sensitivities, autoimmune disease and immune imbalance or a weakened immune system, its important to consume probiotic foods and supplements. Probiotics are good bacteria that help you digest nutrients that boost the detoxification of your colon and support your immune system.

Research published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition suggests that probiotic organisms may induce different cytokine responses. Supplementation of probiotics in infancy could help prevent immune-mediated diseases in childhood by improving the gut mucosal immune system and increasing the number of immunoglobulin cells and cytokine-producing cells in the intestines. (14)

Astragalusis a plant within the bean and legumes family that has a very long history as an immune system booster and disease fighter. Its root has been used as an adaptogen inTraditional Chinese Medicine for thousands of years. Although astragalus is one of the least studied immune-boosting herbs, there are some preclinical trials that show intriguing immune activity. (15)

A recent review published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine found that astragalus-based treatments have demonstrated significant improvementof the toxicity induced by drugs such as immunosuppressants and cancer chemotherapeutics. Researchers concluded that astragalus extract has a beneficial effect on the immune system, and it protects the body from gastrointestinal inflammation and cancers. (16)

Ayurvedic medicine has relied ongingers ability for how toboost yourimmune system before recorded history. Its believed that ginger helps to break down the accumulation of toxins in our organs due to its warming effects. Its also known to cleanse the lymphatic system, our network of tissues and organs that help rid the body of toxins, waste and other unwanted materials.

Ginger root and ginger essential oil can treat a wide range of diseases with its immunonutrition and anti-inflammatory responses. Research shows that ginger has antimicrobial potential, which helps in treating infectious diseases. Its also known for its ability to treat inflammatory disorders that are caused by infectious agents such as viruses, bacteria and parasites, as well as physical and chemical agents like heat, acid and cigarette smoke. (17)

7. Ginseng

The ginseng plant, belonging to the Panax genus, can help you to boost your immune system and fight infections. The roots, stems and leaves of ginseng have been used for maintaining immune homeostasis and enhancing resistance to illness or infection. Ginseng improves the performance of your immune system by regulating each type of immune cell, including macrophages, natural killer cells, dendritic cells, T cells and B cells. It also has antimicrobial compounds that work as a defense mechanism against bacterial and viral infections. (18)

A study published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine found that ginseng extract successfully induced antigenspecific antibody responses when it was administered orally. Antibodies bind to antigens, such as toxins or viruses, and keep them from contacting and harming normal cells of the body. Because of ginsengs ability to play a role in antibody production, it helps the body to fight invading microorganisms or pathogenic antigens. (19)

Vitamin D can modulate the innate and adaptive immune responses and a vitamin D deficiency is associated with increased autoimmunity as well as an increased susceptibility to infection. Research shows that vitamin D works to maintain tolerance and promote protective immunity. There have been multiple cross-sectional studies that associate lower levels of vitamin D with increased infection. (20)

One study conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital included 19,000 participants, and it showed that individuals with lower vitamin D levels were more likely to report a recent upper respiratory tract infection than those with sufficient levels, even after adjusting for variables such as season, age, gender, body mass and race. (21) Sometimes addressing a nutritional deficiency is how to boost your immune system.

Myrrh is a resin, or sap-like substance, that is one of the most widely used essential oils in the world. Historically, myrrh was used to treat hay fever, clean and heal wounds and stop bleeding. Myrrh strengthens the immune system with its antiseptic, antibacterial and antifungal properties. (22)

A 2012 study validated myrrhs enhanced antimicrobial efficacy when used in combination with frankincense oil against a selection of pathogens. Researchers concluded that myrrh oil has anti-infective properties and can help to boost your immune system. (23)

Oregano essential oil is known for its healing and immune-boosting properties. It fights infections naturally due to its antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-parasite compounds. A 2016 study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition found that the main compounds in oregano that are responsible for its antimicrobial activity include carvacrol and thymol. (24)

Several scientific studies found that oregano oil exhibited antibacterial activity againsta number of bacterial isolates and species, includingB. laterosporus andS. saprophyticus. (25)

I should also stress the importance of incorporating physical activity into your daily and weekly regimen to strengthen your immune system. A 2018 human study published in Aging Cell revealed that high levels of physical activity and exercise improve the immunosenescence (gradual deterioration of the immune system) in older adults aged 55 through 79, compared to those in the same age group who were physically inactive. The study also highlights that physical activity doesnt protect against all of the immunosenescence that occurs. However, the decrease in a persons immune system function and activity can be influenced by decreased physical activity in addition to age. (26)

In the quest for how to boost your immune system, proceed with some caution. If you are using these immune-boosting herbs and essential oils, remember that the products are extremely potent and should not be taken for more than two weeks at a time. Giving yourself a break in between long doses is important.

Also, if you are pregnant, be cautious when using essential oils and reach out to your health care provider before doing so. Any time you are using natural remedies like plant supplements, its a good idea to do it under the care of your doctor or nutritionist.

From the sound of it, you might think leaky gut only affects the digestive system,but in reality it can affect more. Because Leaky Gut is so common, and such an enigma,Im offering a free webinar on all things leaky gut.Click here to learn more about the webinar.

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How to Boost Your Immune System - Dr. Axe

Professor Shinya Yamanaka of Kyoto University, 55, became more widely known after he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2012. Five years before that, however, in November 2007, he announced that he had generated human-induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells).

His research on treating illnesses has seen impressive progress, but, according to him, this is just the beginning.

Yamanaka, 55, was born in 1962 in Osaka. He graduated from Kobe University School of Medicine and completed his PhD at Osaka University Graduate School. He became a professor at Kyoto University in 2004 and the director of Center for iPS Cell Research and Application in 2010.

He recently spoke with journalist Juichiro Ito of Sankei Shimbuns Science Department about the future of medical treatment through iPS cell generation.

Its the 10th anniversary of human iPS cell generation.

It sounds like a long time, but it feels like yesterday. I cant believe it has been that long. Maybe time flies faster for me because Im old now, but this is only the beginning.

Research on regenerative medicine and clinical trials of new drugs have begun.

iPS cells have been a catalyst to research that use embryonic stem cells (ES cells). I cannot take all the credit because I wouldnt have made it this far without the efforts of everyone involved. I always remind myself how grateful I should be. Clinical research on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) led by Masayo Takahashi of Riken research institute impressed me the most. By skipping the preclinical development stage consisting of animal testing, she managed to make significant accomplishments in a very short period.

What was the challenge?

The challenge was to build an iPS cell stock which ensures that iPS cells will always be available for regenerative medicine and drug discovery. The process involves providing cells to a specialized company for mass production, which then supplies the cells to medical institutes and pharmaceutical companies. It was a very difficult process because university researchers are a type of people who want to challenge themselves with the unprecedented. Conversely, the production of cells requires the dull repetition of prescribed steps in order to maintain quality. Dealing with this contrast was very difficult.

At first, people pointed out the risks of the cells becoming cancerous.

The early-stage iPS cells couldnt be used for clinical research because of these concerns. However, the production method has evolved and the situation has changed. The risk has not been completely eliminated but is significantly lower, so the cells can now be used for clinical research.

You were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2012.

It was a great honor. The moment I successfully generated iPS cells, I had the huge responsibility of getting things off the ground, starting with the clinical research. But receiving the prize increased awareness within the general public and those in the industry, and this became a tailwind for my research in many ways. Im very grateful for that, as it also helped Kyoto University collect funds for the Center for iPS Cell Research Application (CiRA).

If you were to compare the current iPS research to a marathon, how many kilometers do you still have to run?

It might be an exaggeration to say that were only at the start line, but I would say weve run no more than 10 kilometers. The real challengethe crucial stagesstarts now, including clinical research and trials of new drugs. Our goal is truly ambitious, as we are taking unprecedented steps while prioritizing the safety of the patients. Im assuming that the challenges that lie ahead will be incomparable to anything Ive faced in the past.

What is the goal of the research?

I estimate that several treatments using regenerative medicine and new drugs will be developed, authorized, and covered by insurance around 2030. However, some treatments may take longer to develop, and unforeseeable challenges may come up. We cannot simply visualize our goal. Its more important to take slow but sure steps towards it.

What are the problems regarding cost and time?

In regenerative medicine, it takes a lot of money and time to custom-make iPS cells from the patients cells. Instead, we create iPS cells from dozens of people with an immunological type that has a lower risk of rejection in Japanese people. However, the great hurdle is how to maintain ample stock of these cells.

What percentage of the population do the cells cover?

Currently, we provide iPS cells of three immunological types. They will not trigger a rejection response in 30% of the Japanese population. It shouldnt be long until we reach 50%. However, we are concerned that increasing the types of iPS cells available will inevitably lead to a higher production cost, which means the cells might become difficult to access for medical treatment. The more cell types there are, the more production facilities the manufacturing companies will require, and more money and time will be necessary for safety checks. Alternatively, it might be more efficient to use just one type of cell which covers the greatest percentage of the population, and to provide immunosuppressant drugs to those that have a rejection response.

What is your plan for the future?

If a huge amount of national expenditure is invested into creating more types of cells but the cells end up being unusable, it would be a considerable waste. Until now, we have been aiming to reach 80% of the population by 2022, but we are now reevaluating our goal. This is a problem we cannot solve by ourselves. We want the government to consider implementing a system that ensures safety checks while containing the costs.

Clinical research and trials have started to make the cells useful for patients.

We have only just reached the start line. For the next 10 or 20 years, it will be more like the patients contributing to the research at their own risk, rather than us contributing to them. I need to start making true contributions to the patients as soon as possible. People enduring incurable diseases have written numerous letters to us about their wish to be cured using iPS cells. I am fully aware of their desperate situation and working hard towards making their wish come true.

Ikumi Yamamoto, 19, from Akashi in Hyogo Prefecture, who suffered from fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), underwent the first ever treatment for incurable diseases using iPS cells in October.

She came to see me when she was a sixth grade elementary student, and told me that she wanted me to generate iPS cells using her cells to further my research. Such encounters have become a driving force in my research. I think of iPS cells as the patients themselves. When I conduct experiments, the face of the patients who provided the original cells always come to my mind, which makes me more determined to find a cure for them.

Hideo Shinozawa, an honorary professor of Gakushuin University, died in October after a long battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

The professor sent me a letter to tell me how much he wanted me to develop a treatment. The letter is displayed in my laboratory so that I am always reminded of his strong desire while I go about my work. ALS is one of the diseases I want to defeat the most. I want to find a cure as soon as possible, but Im unfortunately not at that stage yet.

What kind of attitude should medical researchers have?

As a researcher, you must first conduct good research and write research papers. While doing this, the researcher must have a strong determination to help the patients no matter how long it takes. Being a researcher is difficult, but thinking about the patients keeps us going.

Do you still run marathons as a hobby?

During my lunch breaks on weekdays, I run for 30 minutes along Kamo River and near Nanzen-ji Temple, which are located near the research institute. On weekends, I run around Osaka Castle near my house and around the Tokyo Imperial Palace when Im in Tokyo for work. Running helps me refresh my tired brain, just like the initialization process involved in iPS cell generation.

I managed to run a personal best of 3 hours 27 minutes and 42 seconds at the Kyoto Marathon in February. I will run the Osaka Marathon in November. The Beppu-ita Marathon, which I will be running next February, will be used to select representatives for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, so I might have a chance. Perhaps well see a miracle (laughs).

The Rapid Progress of Clinical Research and the Challenge of Efficient Cell Generation

iPS cell research has garnered attention as people put their hopes on regenerative medicine to transplant new cells and tissue to injured or ill patients. Research institute Riken succeeded in the first ever transplant in 2014 using iPS cells, setting a major landmark in this field.

The transplant involved creating retinal cells using iPS cells generated from a patient with age-related macular degeneration, a serious eye condition. In March 2017, the transplant of retinal cells from a donor using stock iPS cells succeeded, totalling five successful transplants.

For 2018, clinical research on spinal cord injury and heart failure are being scheduled by Keio University and Osaka University, respectively. Yokohama City University also plans to conduct clinical research on liver failure in 2019 onwards, making Japan the trail blazer in this area. However, most of this research is on cell transplantation; the possibility of transplanting complex organs is still not within reach.

iPS cells are also used to research the pathogenesis of diseases and drug discovery. This is because the mechanisms of diseases can be revealed by creating iPS cells from patients with incurable diseases and replicating the disease outside of the body. Recently, the mechanisms of diseases that affect the motor system, such as Parkinsons disease and ALS, have become better understood.

The mass production of the patients cells for testing makes the development of new drugs more efficient. Potential treatment for FOP, a disease that turns muscle into bone, has been discovered through this method. The method is also being used for ALS and Alzheimers disease. However, this method has not met early expectations that it would be available for clinical application sooner than regenerative medicine.

The big challenge is efficient cell generation. It takes several months to create iPS cells and cells of the affected area. Research on implementing artificial intelligence for efficiency and improvement of cell generation methods is intensifying.

Juichiro Ito is a staff writer of the Sankei Shimbun Science news department.

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IEEE-NANOMED is one of the premier annual events organized by the IEEE Nanotechnology Council to bring together physicians, scientists and engineers alike from all over the world and every sector of academy and industry, working at advancement of basic and clinical research in medical and biological sciences using nano/molecular and engineering methods. IEEE-NANOMED is the conference where practitioners will see nano/molecular medicine and engineering at work in both their own and related fields, from essential and advanced scientific and engineering research and theory to translational and clinical research.

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Authors are also invited to submit results to a special issue of the journal Micromachines (impact factor 1.295), on the topic of Microdevices and Microsystems for Cell Manipulation. More information on the special issue and paper submission can be found here:http://www.mdpi.com/journal/micromachines/special_issues/cell_manipulation

Authors are also invited to submit results to a special issue of the journal Micromachines (impact factor 1.295), on the topic of MEMS/NEMS for Biomedical Imaging and Sensing. More information on the special issue and paper submission can be found here:http://www.mdpi.com/journal/micromachines/special_issues/MEMS_biomedical_imaging_sensing

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For the drug used for hypertension, see Lasix. For the Slovakian footballer, see Richard Lsik.

LASIK or Lasik (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis), commonly referred to as laser eye surgery or laser vision correction, is a type of refractive surgery for the correction of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.[1] The LASIK surgery is performed by an ophthalmologist who uses a laser or microkeratome to reshape the eye's cornea in order to improve visual acuity.[2] For most people, LASIK provides a long-lasting alternative to eyeglasses or contact lenses.[3]

LASIK is most similar to another surgical corrective procedure, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), and LASEK. All represent advances over radial keratotomy in the surgical treatment of refractive errors of vision. For patients with moderate to high myopia or thin corneas which cannot be treated with LASIK and PRK, the phakic intraocular lens is an alternative.[4][5] As of 2018, nearly 10 million LASIK procedures had been performed in the United States[1][6] and, as of 2016, over 40 million have been performed worldwide since 1991.[7][8]However, the procedure seems to be a declining option for many in the United States, dropping more than 50 percent, from about 1.5 million surgeries in 2007 to 604,000 in 2015, according to the eye care data source Market Scope.[9]

In 2006, the British National Health Service's National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) considered evidence of the effectiveness and the potential risks of the laser surgery stating "current evidence suggests that photorefractive (laser) surgery for the correction of refractive errors is safe and efficacious for use in appropriately selected patients. Clinicians undertaking photorefractive (laser) surgery for the correction of refractive errors should ensure that patients understand the benefits and potential risks of the procedure. Risks include failure to achieve the expected improvement in unaided vision, development of new visual disturbances, corneal infection and flap complications. These risks should be weighed against those of wearing spectacles or contact lenses."[10] The FDA reports "The safety and effectiveness of refractive procedures has not been determined in patients with some diseases."[11]

Surveys of LASIK surgery find rates of patient satisfaction between 92 and 98 percent.[12][13][14]In March 2008, the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery published a patient satisfaction meta-analysis of over 3,000 peer-reviewed articles from international clinical journals. Data from the prior 10 years revealed a 95.4 percent patient satisfaction rate among LASIK patients.[15]

Some people with poor outcomes from LASIK surgical procedures report a significantly reduced quality of life because of vision problems or physical pain associated with the surgery.[1] A small percentage of patients may need to have another surgery because their condition is over-corrected or under-corrected. Some patients need to wear contact lenses or glasses even after treatment.[16]

The most common reason for dissatisfaction in LASIK patients is chronic severe dry eye. Independent research indicates 95% of patients experience dry eye in the initial post-operative period. This number has been reported to up to 60% after one month. Symptoms begin to improve in the vast majority of patients in the 6 to 12 months following the surgery.[17] However, 30% of post-LASIK referrals to tertiary ophthalmology care centers have been shown to be due to chronic dry eye.[18][19]

Morris Waxler, a former FDA official who was involved in the approval of LASIK, has subsequently criticized its widespread use. In 2010, Waxler made media appearances and claimed that the procedure had a failure rate greater than 50%. The FDA responded that Waxler's information was "filled with false statements, incorrect citations" and "mischaracterization of results".[20]

A 2016 JAMA study indicates that the prevalence of complications from LASIK are higher than indicated, with the study indicating many patients wind up with glare, halos or other visual symptoms.[21]

A type of LASIK, known as presbyLasik, may be used in presbyopia. Results are, however, more variable and some people have a decrease in visual acuity.[22]

Higher-order aberrations are visual problems that require special testing for diagnosis and are not corrected with normal spectacles (eyeglasses). These aberrations include 'starbursts', 'ghosting', 'halos' and others.[23][1] Some patients describe these symptoms post-operatively and associate them with the LASIK technique including the formation of the flap and the tissue ablation.[24]

The advancement of the LASIK technology has reduced the risk of clinically significant visual impairment after surgery.[citation needed] There is a correlation between pupil size and aberrations. This correlation may be the result of irregularity in the corneal tissue between the untouched part of the cornea and the reshaped part. Daytime post-LASIK vision is optimal, since the pupil size is smaller than the LASIK flap. However, at night, the pupil may dilate such that light passes through the edge of the LASIK flap, which gives rise to aberrations. LASIK and PRK may induce spherical aberration if the laser under-corrects as it moves outward from the centre of the treatment zone, especially when major corrections are made.[citation needed]

Others propose that higher-order aberrations are present preoperatively.[25] They can be measured in micrometers (m) whereas the smallest laser beam size approved by the FDA is about 1000 times larger, at 0.65mm. In situ keratomileusis effected at a later age increases the incidence of corneal higher-order wavefront aberrations.[26][27] These factors demonstrate the importance of careful patient selection for LASIK treatment.

95% of patients report dry eye symptoms after LASIK[28][1] Although it is usually temporary, it can develop into chronic and severe dry eye syndrome. Quality of life can be severely affected by dry eye syndrome.[29]

Underlying conditions with dry eye such as Sjgren's syndrome are considered contraindications to Lasik.[30]

Treatments include artificial tears, prescription tears and punctal occlusion. Punctal occlusion is accomplished by placing a collagen or silicone plug in the tear duct, which normally drains fluid from the eye. Some patients complain of ongoing dry eye symptoms despite such treatments and dry eye symptoms may be permanent.[31]

Some post-LASIK patients see halos and starbursts around bright lights at night.[1] At night, the pupil may dilate to be larger than the flap leading to the edge of the flap or stromal changes causing visual distortion of light that does not occur during the day when the pupil is smaller. The eyes can be examined for large pupils pre-operatively and the risk of this symptom assessed.

Complications due to LASIK have been classified as those that occur due to preoperative, intraoperative, early postoperative, or late postoperative sources:[32] According to the UK National Health Service complications occur in fewer than 5% of cases.[28]

In October 2009, the FDA, the National Eye Institute (NEI), and the Department of Defense (DoD) launched the LASIK Quality of Life Collaboration Project (LQOLCP) to help better understand the potential risk of severe problems that can result from LASIK[49] in response to widespread reports of problems experienced by patients after LASIK laser eye surgery.[50] This project examined patient-reported outcomes with LASIK (PROWL). The project consisted of three phases: pilot phase, phase I, phase II (PROWL-1) and phase III (PROWL-2).[51] The last two phases were completed in 2014.

The results of the LASIK Quality of Life Study were published in October, 2014.[49]

The FDA's director of the Division of Ophthalmic Devices, said about the LASIK study "Given the large number of patients undergoing LASIK annually, dissatisfaction and disabling symptoms may occur in a significant number of patients".[52] Also in 2014, FDA published an article highlighting the risks and a list of factors and conditions individuals should consider when choosing a doctor for their refractive surgery.[53]

The planning and analysis of corneal reshaping techniques such as LASIK have been standardized by the American National Standards Institute, an approach based on the Alpins method of astigmatism analysis. The FDA website on LASIK states,

The procedure involves creating a thin flap on the eye, folding it to enable remodeling of the tissue beneath with a laser and repositioning the flap.

Patients wearing soft contact lenses are instructed to stop wearing them 5 to 21 days before surgery. One industry body recommends that patients wearing hard contact lenses should stop wearing them for a minimum of six weeks plus another six weeks for every three years the hard contacts have been worn.The cornea is avascular because it must be transparent to function normally. Its cells absorb oxygen from the tear film. Thus, low-oxygen-permeable contact lenses reduce the cornea's oxygen absorption, sometimes resulting in corneal neovascularizationthe growth of blood vessels into the cornea. This causes a slight lengthening of inflammation duration and healing time and some pain during surgery, because of greater bleeding.Although some contact lenses (notably modern RGP and soft silicone hydrogel lenses) are made of materials with greater oxygen permeability that help reduce the risk of corneal neovascularization, patients considering LASIK are warned to avoid over-wearing their contact lenses.

In the United States, the FDA has approved LASIK for age 18 or 22 and over because the vision has to stabilize. More importantly the patient's eye prescription should be stable for at least one year prior to surgery.The patient may be examined with pupillary dilation and education given prior to the procedure. Before the surgery, the patient's corneas are examined with a pachymeter to determine their thickness, and with a topographer, or corneal topography machine,[2] to measure their surface contour. Using low-power lasers, a topographer creates a topographic map of the cornea. The procedure is contraindicated if the topographer finds difficulties such as keratoconus[2] The preparatory process also detects astigmatism and other irregularities in the shape of the cornea. Using this information, the surgeon calculates the amount and the location of corneal tissue to be removed. The patient is prescribed and self-administers an antibiotic beforehand to minimize the risk of infection after the procedure and is sometimes offered a short acting oral sedative medication as a pre-medication. Prior to the procedure, anaesthetic eye drops are instilled. Factors that may rule out LASIK for some patients include large pupils, thin corneas and extremely dry eyes.[55]

A soft corneal suction ring is applied to the eye, holding the eye in place. This step in the procedure can sometimes cause small blood vessels to burst, resulting in bleeding or subconjunctival hemorrhage into the white (sclera) of the eye, a harmless side effect that resolves within several weeks. Increased suction causes a transient dimming of vision in the treated eye. Once the eye is immobilized, a flap is created by cutting through the corneal epithelium and Bowman's layer. This process is achieved with a mechanical microkeratome using a metal blade, or a femtosecond laser that creates a series of tiny closely arranged bubbles within the cornea. A hinge is left at one end of this flap. The flap is folded back, revealing the stroma, the middle section of the cornea. The process of lifting and folding back the flap can sometimes be uncomfortable.

The second step of the procedure uses an excimer laser (193nm) to remodel the corneal stroma. The laser vaporizes the tissue in a finely controlled manner without damaging the adjacent stroma. No burning with heat or actual cutting is required to ablate the tissue. The layers of tissue removed are tens of micrometers thick.

Performing the laser ablation in the deeper corneal stroma provides for more rapid visual recovery and less pain than the earlier technique, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).[56]

During the second step, the patient's vision becomes blurry, once the flap is lifted. They will be able to see only white light surrounding the orange light of the laser, which can lead to mild disorientation. The excimer laser uses an eye tracking system that follows the patient's eye position up to 4,000 times per second, redirecting laser pulses for precise placement within the treatment zone. Typical pulses are around 1 millijoule (mJ) of pulse energy in 10 to 20 nanoseconds.[57]

After the laser has reshaped the stromal layer, the LASIK flap is carefully repositioned over the treatment area by the surgeon and checked for the presence of air bubbles, debris, and proper fit on the eye. The flap remains in position by natural adhesion until healing is completed.

Patients are usually given a course of antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops. These are continued in the weeks following surgery. Patients are told to rest and are given dark eyeglasses to protect their eyes from bright lights and occasionally protective goggles to prevent rubbing of the eyes when asleep and to reduce dry eyes. They also are required to moisturize the eyes with preservative-free tears and follow directions for prescription drops. Occasionally after the procedure a bandage contact lens is placed to aid the healing, and typically removed after 34 days. Patients should be adequately informed by their surgeons of the importance of proper post-operative care to minimize the risk of complications.[58]

Wavefront-guided LASIK is a variation of LASIK surgery in which, rather than applying a simple correction of only long/short-sightedness and astigmatism (only lower order aberrations as in traditional LASIK), an ophthalmologist applies a spatially varying correction, guiding the computer-controlled excimer laser with measurements from a wavefront sensor. The goal is to achieve a more optically perfect eye, though the final result still depends on the physician's success at predicting changes that occur during healing and other factors that may have to do with the regularity/irregularity of the cornea and the axis of any residual astigmatism. Another important factor is whether the excimer laser can correctly register eye position in 3 dimensions, and to track the eye in all the possible directions of eye movement. If a wavefront guided treatment is performed with less than perfect registration and tracking, pre-existing aberrations can be worsened. In older patients, scattering from microscopic particles (cataract or incipient cataract) may play a role that outweighs any benefit from wavefront correction. Therefore, patients expecting so-called "super vision" from such procedures may be disappointed.[59][60][61][62]

When treating a patient with preexisting astigmatism, most wavefront-guided LASIK lasers are designed to treat regular astigmatism as determined externally by corneal topography. In patients who have an element of internally induced astigmatism, therefore, the wavefront-guided astigmatism correction may leave regular astigmatism behind (a cross-cylinder effect). If the patient has preexisting irregular astigmatism, wavefront-guided approaches may leave both regular and irregular astigmatism behind. This can result in less-than-optimal visual acuity compared with a wavefront-guided approach combined with vector planning, as shown in a 2008 study.[63] Thus, vector planning offers a better alignment between corneal astigmatism and laser treatment, and leaves less regular astigmatism behind on the cornea, which is advantageous whether irregular astigmatism coexists or not.

The "leftover" astigmatism after a purely surface-guided laser correction can be calculated beforehand, and is called ocular residual astigmatism (ORA). ORA is a calculation of astigmatism due to the noncorneal surface (internal) optics. The purely refraction-based approach represented by wavefront analysis actually conflicts with corneal surgical experience developed over many years.[62]

The pathway to "super vision" thus may require a more customized approach to corneal astigmatism than is usually attempted, and any remaining astigmatism ought to be regular (as opposed to irregular), which are both fundamental principles of vector planning overlooked by a purely wavefront-guided treatment plan.[62] This was confirmed by the 2008 study mentioned above, which found a greater reduction in corneal astigmatism and better visual outcomes under mesopic conditions using wavefront technology combined with vector analysis than using wavefront technology alone, and also found equivalent higher-order aberrations (see below).[63] Vector planning also proved advantageous in patients with keratoconus.[64]

No good data can be found that compare the percentage of LASIK procedures that employ wavefront guidance versus the percentage that do not, nor the percentage of refractive surgeons who have a preference one way or the other. Wavefront technology continues to be positioned as an "advance" in LASIK with putative advantages;[65][66][67][68] however, it is clear that not all LASIK procedures are performed with wavefront guidance.[69]

Still, surgeons claim patients are generally more satisfied with this technique than with previous methods, particularly regarding lowered incidence of "halos," the visual artifact caused by spherical aberration induced in the eye by earlier methods. A meta-analysis of eight trials showed a lower incidence of these higher order aberrations in patients who had wavefront-guided LASIK compared to non-wavefront-guided LASIK.[70] Based on their experience, the United States Air Force has described WFG-Lasik as giving "superior vision results".[71]

Topography-assisted LASIK is intended to be an advancement in precision and reduce night vision side effects. The first topography-assisted device received FDA approval September 13, 2013.[72][73]

In the 1950s, the microkeratome and keratomileusis technique were developed in Bogot, Colombia, by the Spanish ophthalmologist Jose Barraquer. In his clinic, he would cut thin (one hundredth of a mm thick) flaps in the cornea to alter its shape. Barraquer also investigated how much of the cornea had to be left unaltered in order to provide stable long-term results.[74] This work was followed by that of the Russian scientist, Svyatoslav Fyodorov, who developed radial keratotomy (RK) in the 1970s and designed the first posterior chamber implantable contact lenses (phakic intraocular lens) in the 1980s.

In 1980, Rangaswamy Srinivasan, at the IBM Research laboratory, discovered that an ultraviolet excimer laser could etch living tissue, with precision and with no thermal damage to the surrounding area. He named the phenomenon "ablative photo-decomposition" (APD).[75]Five years later, in 1985, Steven Trokel at the Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute, Columbia University in New York City, published his work using the excimer laser in radial keratotomy. He wrote,

Together with his colleagues, Charles Munnerlyn and Terry Clapham, Trokel founded VISX USA inc.[77] Marguerite B. MacDonald MD performed the first human VISX refractive laser eye surgery in 1989.[78]

A number of patents have been issued for several techniques related to LASIK. Stuart I. Brown and Josef F. Bille filed a patent on surgical lasers in 1988.[79] Samuel E. Blum, Rangaswamy Srinivasan and James Wynne filed a patent application on the ultraviolet excimer laser, in 1982, issued in 1988.[80] In 1989, Gholam A. Peyman was granted a US patent for using an excimer laser to modify corneal curvature.[81] It was,

The patents related to so-called broad-beam LASIK and PRK technologies were granted to US companies including Visx and Summit during 1990-1995 based on the fundamental US patent issued to IBM (1983) which claimed the use of UV laser for the ablation of organic tissues.[80]

The LASIK technique was implemented in the U.S. after its successful application elsewhere. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) commenced a trial of the excimer laser in 1989. The first enterprise to receive FDA approval to use an excimer laser for photo-refractive keratectomy was Summit Technology (founder and CEO, Dr. David Muller).[82]In 1992, under the direction of the FDA, Greek ophthalmologist Ioannis Pallikaris introduced LASIK to ten VISX centres. In 1998, the "Kremer Excimer Laser", serial number KEA 940202, received FDA approval for its singular use for performing LASIK.[83] Subsequently, Summit Technology was the first company to receive FDA approval to mass manufacture and distribute excimer lasers. VISX and other companies followed.[83]

Pallikaris suggested a flap of cornea could be raised by microkeratome prior to the performing of PRK with the excimer laser. The addition of a flap to PRK became known as LASIK.

Since 1991, there have been further developments such as faster lasers; larger spot areas; bladeless flap incisions; intraoperative corneal pachymetry; and "wavefront-optimized" and "wavefront-guided" techniques. The goal of refractive surgery is to avoid permanently weakening the cornea with incisions and to deliver less energy to the surrounding tissues.

A systematic review that compared PRK and LASIK concluded that LASIK has shorter recovery time and less pain.[89] The two techniques after a period of one year have similar results.[89]

A 2017 systematic review found uncertainty in visual acuity, but found that in one study, those receiving PRK were less likely to achieve a refractive error, and were less likely to have an over-correction than compared to LASIK.[90]

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LASIK - Wikipedia

Gene therapy is an experimental technique that aims to treat genetic diseases by altering a disease-causing gene or introducing a healthy copy of a mutated gene to the body. The U.S. Food and Drug Administrationapprovedthe first gene therapy for an inherited disease a genetic form of blindness in December 2017.

Sickle cell anemia is caused by a mutation in the HBB gene which provides the instructions to make part of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen.

Researchers are working on two different strategies to treat sickle cell anemia with gene therapy. Both of these strategies involve genetically altering the patients own hematopoietic stem cells. These are cells in the bone marrow that divide and specialize to produce different types of blood cells, including the red blood cells.

One strategy is to remove some of the patients hematopoietic stem cells, replace the mutated HBB gene in these cells with a healthy copy of the gene, and then transplant those cells back into the patient. The healthy copy of the gene is delivered to the cells using a modified, harmless virus. These genetically corrected cells will then hopefully repopulate the bone marrow and produce healthy, rather than sickled, red blood cells.

The other strategy is to genetically alter another gene in the patients hematopoietic stem cells so they boost production of fetal hemoglobin a form of hemoglobin produced by babies from about seven months before birth to about six months after birth. This type of hemoglobin represses sickling of cells in patients with sickle cell anemia, but most people only produce a tiny amount of it after infancy. Researchers aim to increase production of fetal hemoglobin in stem cells by using a highly specific enzyme to cut the cells DNA in the section containing one of the genes that suppress production of fetal hemoglobin. When the cell repairs its DNA, the gene no longer works and more fetal hemoglobin is produced.

Gene therapy offers an advantage over bone marrow transplant, in that complications associated with a bone marrow donation now the only cure for the disease such as finding the right match are not a concern.

Twelve clinical trials studying gene therapy to treat sickle cell anemia are now ongoing. Nine of the 12 are currently recruiting participants.

Four trials (NCT02186418, NCT03282656, NCT02247843, NCT02140554) are testing the efficacy and safety of gene therapy to replace the mutated HBB gene with a healthy HBB gene. These Phase 2 trials are recruiting both children and adults in the United States and Jamaica.

Three trials (NCT02193191, NCT02989701, NCT03226691) are investigating the use ofMozobil (plerixafor) in patients with sickle cell anemia to increase the production of stem cells to be used for gene therapy. This medication is already approved to treat certain types of cancer. All three are recruiting U.S. participants.

One trial (NCT00669305) is recruiting sickle cell anemia patients in Tennessee to donate bone marrow to be used in laboratory research to develop gene therapy techniques.

The final study(NCT00012545) is examining the best way to collect, process and store umbilical cord blood from babies with and without sickle cell anemia. Cord blood contains abundant stem cells that could be used in developing gene therapy for sickle cell anemia. This trial is open to pregnant women in Maryland both those who risk having an infant with sickle cell anemia, and those who do not.

One clinical trial (NCT02151526) conducted in France is still active but no longer recruiting participants. It is investigating the efficacy of gene therapy in seven patients. For the trial, a gene producing a therapeutic hemoglobin that functions similarly to fetal hemoglobin is introduced into the patients stem cells. A case studyfrom one of the seven was published in March 2017; it showed that the approach was safe and could be an effective treatment option for sickle cell anemia.

***

Sickle Cell Anemia News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.

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Gene Therapy - Sickle Cell Anemia News

Debates over the ethics of embryonic stem cell research have divided scientists, politicians, and religious groups for years. However, promising developments in other areas of stem cell research have led to solutions that help bypass these ethical barriers and win more support from those against embryonic stem cell research; the newer methods don't require the destruction of blastocysts.

In 1998, the first published research paper on the topic reported that stem cells could be taken from human embryos. Subsequent research led to the ability to maintain undifferentiated stem cell lines (pluripotent cells) and techniques for differentiating them into cells specific to various tissues and organs.

The debates over the ethics of stem cell research began almost immediately in 1999, despite reports that stem cells cannot grow into complete organisms.

In 20002001, governments worldwide were beginning to draft proposals and guidelines to control stem cell research and the handling of embryonic tissues and reach universal policies. The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) drafted a list of recommendations for stem cell research in 2001. In the U.S., the Clinton administration drafted guidelines for stem cell research in 2000. Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom, and other countries followed suit and formulated their own policies.

Debates over the ethics of studying embryonic stem cells continued for nearly a decade until the use of adult-derived stem cellsknown as induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs)became more prevalent and alleviated those concerns.

In the U.S. since 2011, federal funds can be used to study embryonic stem cells, but such funding cannot be used to destroy an embryo.

The excitement about stem cell research is primarily due to the medical benefits in areas ofregenerative medicineand therapeutic cloning. Stem cells provide huge potential for finding treatments and cures to a vast array of medical issues:

Stem cell research presents problems like any form of research, but most opposition to stem cell research is philosophical and theological, focusing on questions of whether we should be taking science this far:

Use of adult-derived stem cellsknown as induced pluripotent stem cells (IPSCs)from blood, cord blood, skin, and other tissues has been demonstrated as effective in treating different diseases in animal models. Umbilical cord-derived stem cells obtained from the cord blood also have been isolated and used for various experimental treatments. Another option is uniparental stem cells. Although these cell lines are shorter-lived than embryonic cell lines, uniparental stem cells hold vast potential if enough research money can be directed that way: pro-life advocates do not technically consider them individual living beings.

Two recent developments from stem cell research involve the heart and the blood it pumps. In 2016, researchers in Scotland began working on the possibility of generating red blood cells from stem cells in order to create a large supply of blood for transfusions. A few years earlier, researchers in England began working on polymers derived from bacteria that can be used to repair damaged heart tissue.

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Pros and Cons of Stem Cell Research - The Balance

Posted December 15, 2015 by Jack Florin

Stem cell pseudomedicine is on the rise, becoming highly profitable as patients and families are desperate for a cure for devastating and incurable neurological diseases, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and multiple sclerosis. Treatment with cellular therapy usually costs between $15,000 and $20,000, is not covered by insurance, and is more widely available overseas than in the US, explaining the concept of stem cell tourism. Desperate patients will overlook the lack of rigorously tested scientific evidence and cling to anything, especially patient testimonials found on stem cell tourism web sites. One clinic does biobanking of placental cells in pregnant women with MS. The costs are very high to maintain cell viability with the hope of using them in the future for MS therapy. Other companies tout the concept that patients with MS or ALS can biobank their own skin or placental cells to generate off-the-shelf stem cells to be injected back into the patients in the distant future when the procedures are proven beneficial in clinical trials.

Many clinics advertise with state-of-the-art web sites, on which celebrities and even physicians give flowery testimonials. Often, they state they are conducting an observational cohort study, making the procedures sound official and allowing them to register their study with the government so that it can be found at the generally trusted web site ClinicalTrials.gov.

Physicians, in counseling their patients, must balance patient autonomy with physician beneficence. A hurdle in counseling patients is that the public has a lack of trust in the FDA and a perception that the FDA does not have the best interests of the patient in mind and stalls the development or approval of new therapies. Conspiratorial views are difficult to overcome.

There are real dangers. A child with a rare disease termed ataxia telangiectasia traveled to Russia and received injections into the spinal fluid of neural stem cells and later developed a brain tumor originating from those cells. Two pediatric patients in Germany died because of intracranial bleeding related to injections in a stem cell clinic. A patient in Thailand received stem cell injections directly into her kidney for lupus nephritis. This resulted in a kidney tumor. A clinic in China injected stem cells directly into the spinal cords of hundreds of patients with spinal cord injuries and ALS. There was no benefit, and there were alarming safety issues.

All stem cell therapies are not bogus. There are now several types of stem cells being studied for MS and ALS in reputable medical centers. Stem cell therapies for MS have been done for many years. They can help patients with fulminant MS but do not result in a cure.

Buyer beware.

See JAMA Neurology, November 2015, page 1342.

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Stem Cell Tourism: Caveat Emptor - Neurologist in Orange ...

15 Aug Stem Cell Therapy for Kidney Failure

As Type-2 diabetes and high blood pressure continue to plague the world, the demand for kidney transplants is increasing by the day. Owing to a shortage of organ donors to meet this requirement, stem cell therapies emerge as a hope to cure thousands of patients as an alternative treatment.

Our kidneys are designed to prevent toxins build up in our bodies. Kidneys help remove a lot of waste, cleansing our bodies from within so that no harmful toxins and chemicals destroy our vital organs. Our kidneys also produce hormones to control other body functions.

When more than a third of your kidney function is impaired, chronic kidney disease begins to take place. Other diseases such as diabetes also contribute to worsening this condition. When left untreated, chronic kidney disease gradually worsens and may result in kidney failure in some cases.

When this happens, patients have to rely on a kidney transplant and dialysis to stay alive and perform day to day activities.

Stem cells possess the unique capacity to self-renew if they are provided the right environment. Therefore, stem cells are used to replace or repair damaged tissues. This is why stem cells can be of significant help in treating kidney failure.

There has been a lot of research to study the effects of stem cells to regenerate a damaged kidney and re-establish its lost function. The past few decades have shown a substantial improvement in identifying how stem cells can play their role in treating several medical conditions such as kidney failure.

Researchers have concentrated on focusing on how human induced pluripotent stem cells and bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can deliver maximum results in restoring kidney function.

Mesenchymal stem cells regenerate into several different types of stem cells. These cells can be incorporated into the renal tubular cells and develop into mesangial cells. Moreover, these cells revitalize the kidneys stem cells and support the survival of renal cells by discharging growth stimulants, to initiate the natural recovery process.

Cases in which stem cells are taken from bone marrow and fat to treat patients suffering from chronic nephritis (resulting in kidney failure) have revealed positive outcomes.

The treatment involves delivering the mesenchymal stem cells and the bone marrow directly into the kidneys to begin repairing the damage on their own.

In the same way, stem cell therapy is also useful in treating complicated conditions such as multiple myeloma, (which also leads to a kidney failure), by transplanting bone marrow stem cells.

Although we are yet to declare the stem cell therapy to be the ultimate treatment for kidney failure, it is definitely useful in slowing down and sometimes suspending the progression of CKD.

Modern stem cells therapies that are currently available utilize stem cells to repair and regenerate damaged renal cells and improve the function of the kidney to slow down the diseases progression.

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Stem Cell Chicago | Stem Cell Therapy for Kidney Failure

What is integrative medicine?

Integrative medicine is a patient-centered approach that addresses the biological, psychological, social and spiritual aspects of health and illness. It is a very personalized approach that takes into consideration your unique conditions, needs, and circumstances. Integrative medicine utilizes multiple evidenced based disciplines to help prevent and heal illness and disease and help patients move toward optimal health.

It is based on a partnership between provider and patient, emphasizes respect for the human capacity for healing and utilizes more natural, less invasive therapies when appropriate.

Integrative medicine can be effective at treating chronic disease comprehensively and works with you to prevent disease development. By deeply examining your unique qualities, family history, lifestyle, social structure, and medical status, an individualized care plan is developed. Integrative medicine providers partner with you as well as your primary care provider (PCP) to help provide effective solutions.

Integrative medicine combines all forms of medicine beyond the traditional Western modelso a treatment plan may include diet modifications, nutritional or herbal supplements or recommendations for mind-body practices like meditation or hypnosis. Referral to other evidence-based modalities is utilized when needed, such as acupuncture or bodywork.

Integrative medicine may be a good fit for those who are interested in taking a deeper look at the cause of their diseases/symptoms and for those who are willing to make some changes to their lifestyle to achieve optimal health or to reduce their medications.

Integrative Medicine is a specialty service, and like most other specialties, you will still need a PCP. In some cases, it may be possible for your Integrative Medicine specialist to act as both.

Cheryl Beighle, MD, provides pediatric care at Marysville, Shoreline, and integrative cancer care for adults at Providence Regional Cancer Partnership Everett. To schedule an appointment, call 360-651-7492 for Marysville, 206-401-3200 for Shoreline and 425-297-5560 for the Cancer Partnership.

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Integrative Medicine | The Everett Clinic

The Consortium of Academic Health Centers for Integrative Medicine defines integrative medicine as a system of comprehensive care that emphasizes wellness and healing of the whole person, with special emphasis on patient participation, and attention to mental and spiritual health. The knowledge and use of complementary and alternative medicine is an important aspect of integrative medicine.

In 2005, Wake Forest Baptist was one of the first 35 academic health centers in North America to be accepted into the Consortium.

Today, the Center oversees a collaboration of educational, community outreach, and research activities focusing on wellness and healing, including acupuncture, the arts, music, and the environment, communication and counseling skills, dietary supplements and herbal medicine, Healing Touch, massage therapy, mind-body, music, nutrition, stress management, tai chi and qi gong and yoga.

Wake Forest Baptist Health now offers patients integrative medicine services. At this new clinic, physicians and healers work side by side to provide collaborative services to address diverse health conditions. We partner with patients of all ages to provide whole person, preventative care to improve overall health and wellbeing. Physicians with specialty training in integrative medicine, internal medicine, family medicine, neurology, pain management, pediatrics, and physical medicine and rehabilitation collaborate with professionals providing acupuncture, psychology, nutrition and integrative energy therapies in an effort to provide patients with comprehensive, evidence based care.

Our services are commonly used to help treat a variety of health conditions, including acute or chronic pain, menopausal-related symptoms, allergies, gastrointestinal symptoms, anxiety, and fatigue, just to name a few. Our Integrative Medicine specialists can help determine if our services are right for your specific health condition.

The Integrative Medicine Clinic is located near Pavilions Shopping Center in Winston-Salem, at 755 Highland Oaks Drive.

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Center for Integrative Medicine | Wake Forest Baptist Health

Updated: 31 October 2018Integrative Medicine Fellowships

The following is a listing of Fellowships currently approved by the American Board of Integrative Medicine. Completion of one of these fellowship programs satisfies eligibility requirement 7(1).

University of Arizona/Arizona Center for Integrative MedicineFellowship in Integrative Medicine

Academy of Integrative Health & Medicine (AIHM)AIHM Inter-professional Fellowship in Integrative Health & Medicine

Sutter Santa Rosa Family Medicine Residency, Integrative Medicine FellowshipSutter Santa Rosa IM4Us (IntegrativeMedicine FellowshipfortheUnder Served)

UCSF Osher Center for Integrative MedicineClinical Fellowship in Integrative Medicine (CFIM)

Stamford Hospital, an affiliate of Columbia University Integrative Medicine Fellowship

George Washington University and the Jesse Brown VA Medical CenterIntegrative Medicine Employee Education/FellowshipPilot

Osher Center for Integrative Medicine at Northwestern UniversityIntegrative Medicine Fellowship

University of KansasIntegrative Medicine Fellowship

Greater Lawrence Family Health Center

University of MichiganIntegrative Medicine Fellowship

Institute for Family Health (IFH) Integrative Family Medicine FellowshipIFH Fellowship

Alliance Integrative Medicine/Integrative Medicine FoundationIntegrative Medicine Physician of Excellence Program

Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine Integrative & Lifestyle MedicineGraduate Training Program in Integrative Medicine

University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health)Integrative & Behavioral Medicine Fellowship

The George Washington UniversityIntegrative Geriatric Fellowship

The George Washington UniversityIntegrative Medicine Fellowship

University of Wisconsin Integrative Medicine FellowshipAcademic Integrative Health (AIH) Fellowship

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Integrative Medicine Fellowships - ABPS

We strongly believe that integrative medicine is an approach to health that may be beneficial for all patients. Our team consists of specialty-trained integrative medicine physicians and providers, specially chosen for not just their skill, but also their personal desire to help heal our patients and community.

Integrative medicine is a philosophy and practice of how we care for patients and ourselves. Integrative medicine includes:

While integrative medicine has been referred to as the new medicine*, it is in many ways a return to principles of medicine from the time of Hippocrates: a focus on science-based practices while acknowledging the bodys natural healing capacity. By combining conventional Western medicine with time-tested, proven practices from around the world, we expand our care options for a variety of conditions and diseases. By remembering the core principles of healing and the need to care for the whole patient, we can better relieve suffering.

The Osher Center for Integrative Medicinewas founded in 1997 as Northwestern Memorial Hospital's official integrative medicine program. Since then our clinical program has grown to see thousands of patients every month; our research team investigates the benefits and mechanisms of how integrative medicine works; and we are the trusted "go-to" resource on integrative medicine for the Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern Medicine and the Chicago-area community. We are proud to be recognized* by The Bravewell Collaborative as one of the leading integrative medicine centers in the country.

In April 2014, our program was named the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine in recognition of a generous gift from Bernard Osher*. With this gift, our Center joined a family of integrative medicine centersall affiliated with esteemed teaching hospitals and universities. In addition to our Center at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, additional Osher Centers are available at the following locations.

Our vision for the future of individual care and ultimately, our healthcare system revolves around introducing new integrative care models into the mainstream. The Osher collaborative is working together to create innovative clinical models of care, advance medical education, and collaborate on research initiatives. We are dedicated to taking a leadership role alongside the four other Osher Centers for Integrative Medicine to make our mark on academic medicine, community outreach and public policy.

The Northwestern Medicine Osher Center for Integrative Medicine team invites you to experience a unique healing experience. We are dedicated to being your partner in achieving your goals.

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Integrative Medicine | Northwestern Medicine

Spa treatments and daily stress relief may come to mind when you think of massage, meditation and other integrative therapies. But these services are also proven, reliable ways to promote healing and well-being. Often described as alternative or complementary, these healthcare approaches were developed outside of conventional, mainstream Western medicine.

Our integrative medicine services combine the best of both approaches to your health in a coordinated way. Our professionals apply their medical knowledge when administering these long-practiced therapies and treatments to prevent disease and maintain health. If you are ill or require surgery, integrative medicine may be used to support conventional medical treatments.

Our trained, compassionate professionals use integrative therapies to help you with a wide range of conditions and needs, including:

We offer a range of services to support your health, from acupuncture and cupping to nutritional counseling and yoga.

Learn more about our integrative services and therapies.

In some ways, going to one of our integrative therapists is like going to your doctor. Your therapist will spend your first appointment getting to know you to help determine the best course of therapy for your health needs. Your first appointment will be 15 30 minutes longer than follow-up appointments so that you and your therapist can discuss every aspect of your current health and wellness. The two of you will discuss recommended therapies that fit your needs, and from there, youll work together on a plan of treatment. Treatment and services may include a combination of individual care, therapies and education, and youll have regular consultations to adjust the plan as needed.

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Integrative Medicine | SCL Health

Cathy Ochs, PA-C, Redding Integrative Medicine, exposes the truth, why integrative medicine should be considered as a primary method of health care.

Our current healthcare system is broken. Patients are unhappy with short doctor visits that focus on a prescription to treat their symptom while ignoring the cause of their problem.

A recent survey of 1,000 patients showed one-third spent less than ten minutes with their doctor, and 93% less than 30 minutes. Seven out of ten Americans take at least one prescription drug daily. This drug focused system results in one million people needlessly dying each year from a drug related side effect.

This system is great at helping us avoid pain and saving lives. But it often stops there. Addressing the root cause of what brought on your problem and fixing this is rarely done. Half of adult Americans live with a chronic health problem.

Instead, our system has become very good at keeping symptoms at bay with drugs and ignoring the cause. This creates an unhealthy nation. The Commonwealth Fund ranks the U.S. last in quality care of 11 developed nations while spending the most in health care dollars. Clearly something is wrong.

Integrative medicine is an excellent solution for our broken system and improving our health. Integrative medicine practitioners spend time with you getting to the root cause of your problem. This cannot be achieved in a ten minute visit. We focus on using natural therapies to support your body to correct the underlying problem and achieve optimal health. Prescription drugs are used only when there are no alternatives available and for the shortest time possible.

Integrative medicine is a better way for all of us. I encourage you to call today for your free screening visit to learn more.

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Redding Integrative Medicine

Do you have attention problems because of ADD, or could it be from something else, such as Lyme disease?

Is your sadness and fatigue due to depression, or are they from imbalanced hormones?

Do you need Prozac, or maybe progesterone?

No one will ever have a Prozac deficiency, but you could definitely have a progesterone deficiency. Did you know that BOTH can be effectively used to treat anxiety, insomnia and PMS?

At the heart of The Amen Clinics Method is the understanding that in order to effectively treat the brain, you must treat the entire body.

Our approach to Integrative Medicine (also known as Metabolic or Functional Medicine) is to find the root cause of your health problems, utilizing sophisticated laboratory tests which look at a number of factors, including:

We partner and collaborate with you to create a treatment plan that addresses your individual needs; targeting and treating imbalances in as natural a way as possible by using a variety of approaches, such as:

Our Integrative Medicine Evaluation is ideal for anyone who seeks a comprehensive, integrative approach to mental/physical health issues, including:

A Neurotox Evaluation is a comprehensive investigation into the toxic substances that may be affecting your brain and body health, based on your specific needs, as determined by your Amen Clinics physician.

SPECT images sometimes reveal a toxic appearance, warranting an integrative approach to determine the cause. Examples of toxic factors include:

This includes a specific battery of tests for metabolic abnormalities associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), including specialized testing, gastrointestinal function, and toxins associated with ASD behavior.

Watch this video for more information about Functional/Integrative Medicine from Dr. Eboni Cornish at Amen Clinics Washington D.C.:

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Integrative Medicine - Treating the Entire Body | Amen Clinics

Integrative medicine is beneficial for people who want to maintain good health, as well as those who are looking to improve their current health. Evidence-based studies have shown that integrative medicine therapies reduce pain and anxiety, enhance healing, speed recovery, and promote feelings of peace and relaxation.

TheChambers Center for Well Beingoffers more than 20 different healing treatments, including holistic health assessments, nutritional assessments and counseling, lifestyle coaching, acupuncture and massage. Our experts can help you address current health concerns or work with you to prevent health issues such as high blood pressure and cholesterol, weight issues, stress and more.

Our outpatient services are available at two New Jersey locations, including Summit and Morristown, and one physician practice in Morristown.

Atlantic Health System Integrative Medicine offersfree bedside servicesthroughout our hospitals, including therapeutic massage for new moms, acupressure, reflexology, aromatherapy, relaxation techniques and guided imagery. These services are for maternity, cardiac, orthopedic, pediatric, ICU, emergency room and all other patients throughout our hospitals.

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Integrative Medicine & Wellness Center - Atlantic Health

Integrative medicine views health from a whole-person perspective and strives to address each persons physical, psychological, social and preventive health by combining treatments that have the highest likelihood of success for each person.

The Institute of Medicine (IOM)s 2009 Summit on Integrative Medicine and the Health of the Public defined integrative medicine as healthcare that is patient-centered, healing-oriented and embraces the best application of conventional medicine together with evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine practices (Maizes et al 2009, Schultz et al 2009).

This might include standard treatments such as medication, together with approaches such as nutrition, exercise, relaxation techniques, support groups, acupuncture, massage therapy, and yoga.

The integrative approach speaks to the human side of health and healing and has been shown to have a positive impact on improving health and well-being in many ways. For example:

By incorporating the integrative approach, programs at Montefiore expand the treatment options available, while responding with sensitivity to peoples needs; offering additional ways to help manage symptoms and pain, alleviate anxiety and enhance quality of life; and championing the individuals capacity for self-knowledge and healing.

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Integrative Medicine - montefiore.org

If you are an existing patient, please download your patient records from thepatient portal prior to March 30, 2018. Download your patient record

Going forward, we will using MyChart: Personal and Secure Health Record.Learn more about MyChart

Inova Integrative and Functional Medicine emphasizes nutrition, exercise and lifestyle adjustments for optimum health. We use approaches that are backed by proven research and studies. Learn about our services

Our physicians listen closely to patients during new visits that typically last an hour, asking questions about all aspects of their lifestyle to create a complete picture. Our integrative approach combines conventional and complementary therapies to facilitate healing for acute and chronic conditions. Meet our physicians

Functional Medicine addresses the underlying causes of disease, using a systems-oriented approach and engaging both patient and practitioner in a therapeutic partnership. It is an evolution in the practice of medicine that better addresses the healthcare needs of the 21st century. By shifting the traditional disease-centered focus of medical practice to a more patient-centered approach, Functional Medicine addresses the whole person, not just an isolated set of symptoms. Functional Medicine practitioners spend time with their patients, listening to their histories and looking at the interactions among genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors that can influence long-term health and complex, chronic disease. In this way, Functional Medicine supports the unique expression of health and vitality for each individual. Learn more about Functional Medicine

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Inova Integrative and Functional Medicine - Inova

Jennifer started her career in Finance because thats what everyone in the NY metropolitan did after college. She could never ignore this urge to follow her passion for health and fitness though, so after having her first child she decided to pursue her personal training certification with the NSCA. Jennifer loved working with clients on their health and fitness, but she soon realized that she was only addressing a small portion of their overall well-being by focusing on fitness. She realized she needed to address the whole body, including nutrition, sleep, and mindset, all the things that come along with being a holistic practitioner. Plus, she was struggling herself with energy and thyroid issues.

So, after years of trying to do it all and be it all, the perfect mother, the perfect wife, the perfect trainer in the perfect shape, eating the so-called perfect diet, Jennifer happened upon a holistic nutrition and health course that called out her name! Functional Diagnostic Nutrition (FDN). FDN is about getting to the root cause of your health issues, not the simple band-aid approach of covering up symptoms that reappear later in different and sometimes worse ways. Once the root is addressed, the body can heal itself.

Her FDN coursework helped Jennifer heal herself from her own adrenal and thyroid issues. How? Through lab testing of markers of well-being such as hormones and digestion, interpreting those results, and implementing a protocol of DRESS: Diet, Rest, Exercise, Stress reduction, and Supplementation. Jennifer now has the privilege of doing this with her clients. Shes been there, and she can help you!

In addition to her nutrition and fitness background, Jennifer is trained as a NLP Master Practitioner. NLP stands for Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Neuro refers to your neurology, linguistic refers to language, and programming refers to how that neural language functions. In other words, NLP is the process of learning the language of ones own mind, so you can take more control of your outcomes (what you are getting in life). By using the practice of NLP with clients, Jennifer can help clients achieve their goals by utilizing more productive self-talk (instead of unproductive negative self-talk that so many of us dont even realize is likely sabotaging our goals). Language is a powerful tool that can be utilized in achieving health goals.

Jennifer has lived all over the world, from San Francisco to Sydney and Singapore, and is enamored with travel. She loves learning from other cultures, particularly when it comes to using food as medicine. Outside of work Jennifer enjoys spending time with her husband (another world traveler), and their three children.

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About Us - Texas Integrative Medicine

When youre in the midst of a health crisis, you may feel scared, overwhelmed or in pain. You need more than tests, surgeries and medication; you need healing touch, a listening ear and inspiration to create a renewed sense of your own health. You may have a health condition that isn't easily diagnosed or treated with Western medicine alone, and want to add new tools to help you regain physical, mental, emotional and spiritual balance and resilience.

Our holistic and integrative medicine practitioners provide just that. Sutters Institute for Health & Healing, founded in 1994 and the first integrative medicine clinic certified by the State of California, is a nationally recognized pioneer in integrative health. At locations across Northern California, we provide evidence-based care that combines modern medical approaches with proven, personalized integrative medicine therapies. Whether you want physician oversight to manage a serious illness or are seeking acupuncture treatment or a therapeutic massage, our goal is to provide the partnership and resources you need to optimize your overall health and well-being.

Understanding Integrative Medicine

Integrative medicine expands the traditional focus on disease and symptoms to incorporate your full potential for wellness. It shifts the emphasis from establishing whats wrong to finding out how to live better through deep and enduring health practices.

Integrative medicine also expands the treatment landscape to include options that reflect amind-body-spirit perspective. For any given clinical concern or need, an integrative approach may incorporate ancient traditions such asChinese medicine and acupuncture as well as modern forms of restoring balance such as functional medicine,mindfulness training andnutrition.

You may come to us with a condition for which conventional medicine may not have all the answers. You may want to enhance the care you are already receiving. Or you may simply be interested in exploring different approaches to wellness and prevention. Whatever your state of health, we can guide you to holistic changes and support you as you put those into practice.

Our staff are all board-certified, Western-trained doctors and clinicians specially trained in integrative practices. Across our Northern California locations, we offer in-depth integrative medicine consultations, focused integrative medicine treatments such as acupuncture and chiropractic services. In San Francisco, we also offer integrative primary care services.

Conditions We Treat

We help children and adults with a variety of health conditions. We offer expertise in areas including:

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Holistic and Integrative Medicine | Sutter Health