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Health Line
14-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
How to Live Beyond an Ulcerative Colitis Diagnosis
Getting diagnosed with ulcerative colitis means you can begin managing your symptoms and finding a treatment plan that works for you. Being diagnosed with ulcerative colitis (UC) can cause a range of emotions. On one hand, it's a relief to have an explanation for your symptoms and a plan to treat them. However, you may also worry about how this disease will affect your quality of life. Keep reading to learn how the condition may affect your routine and what simple steps you can take to regain control of your body and your lifestyle. Understand treatment options Other than surgery to remove your colon and rectum, there's no cure for UC. But several drugs can reduce the frequency of attacks and bring the disease into remission. Treating UC requires the care of an intestinal tract specialist, or gastroenterologist. There's no one-size-fits-all approach — your treatment plan will depend on whether your symptoms are mild, moderate, or severe. It's important to take your medication exactly as prescribed to benefit the most from treatment. Depending on the therapy, it can take weeks or even months for symptoms to improve. Let your healthcare team know if a medication isn't working. Some drugs are more effective than others, and your doctor may need to adjust your dosage or switch your medication. People respond differently to medications, so it's standard procedure to try more than one before you and your healthcare team figure out which is best for treating your UC. If you don't achieve remission with an anti-inflammatory or an immunosuppressant drug, you may be a candidate for biologics. This therapy — which targets the proteins that cause inflammation in your colon — can treat moderate to severe UC. If you have severe UC that doesn't respond to biologics, surgery to remove your colon may help. While it's a significant decision, surgery can provide long-term relief when other treatments haven't worked. Adjust or modify your diet There's no one diet to treat UC. The foods you eat don't cause the disease, but some may lead to a flare-up or worsen it. However, what affects one person may not affect another, which is why it's important to try to learn your food and drink triggers. If you can prevent or reduce the severity of a flare-up, you'll enjoy more of your favorite activities. Keeping a food diary can help you identify which foods trigger your symptoms, so you can make personalized adjustments that may reduce flare-ups and help you stay active and engaged in your daily life. Some people have found that eating a low fiber diet reduces loose stool and frequent bowel activity. Likewise, a lactose-free diet may decrease abdominal pain, gas, and diarrhea. Other diet and nutrition strategies to help you feel better and stay in control include: avoiding greasy or fried foods eating 5to 6 small meals daily eating foods rich in probiotics limiting caffeine, which can act as a laxative cutting out spicy foods to avoid irritating your intestinal tract Proper nutrition helps manage this disease, so talk with your doctor about taking multivitamins. A supplement can prevent vitamin deficiencies that result from removing certain foods from your diet. Be prepared when going out or traveling Flare-ups can occur unexpectedly, but they don't have to keep you from living your life. With some planning and preparation, you can stay active and enjoy the things you love. Whether you're headed to the movies, a restaurant, or another public place, it's helpful to know where the restrooms are, just in case. If you're worried about symptoms appearing suddenly, consider carrying a small kit with essentials like an extra pair of underwear and moist wipes. This kind of simple preparation can help you feel more confident and in control. If you're traveling, ensure you have enough medication to last for the duration of your trip. Forgetting your medication at home and skipping dosages can trigger a flare-up while away. If you'll be away for an extended time, consult your doctor about sending your prescription to a pharmacy in your destination city. Alternatively, get a referral to a local clinic in case you need professional healthcare while traveling. Join a support group A family history of UC increases the risk of developing the disease. But sometimes, there isn't a genetic link. If you're the only one in your family or circle of friends trying to manage UC, you may feel alone at times. Frequent bowel activity and diarrhea can cause feelings of embarrassment, and it's often easier to hide from others and avoid talking about what's going on. But shying away from social interactions can contribute to isolation. And the truth is, talking about your disease may help you feel better. If you share your feelings with people you trust and give them a chance to offer support, you may find it easier to resume activities. In addition to talking with friends and family, ask your doctor or gastroenterologist about local support groups or counseling. Connecting with others with UC can be helpful — not only for emotional support, but also for sharing practical tips and coping strategies. Maintain a positive outlook UC isn't caused by stress or anxiety, but emotional stress can sometimes worsen symptoms. Managing stress through mindful meditation, light exercise, journaling, or puzzling may help you feel calmer and more relaxed, ultimately reducing your stress levels. Even though living with UC can be challenging, having a support system and strategies for coping when flare-ups arise can make a difference. Being depressed or anxious can contribute to social isolation and the loss of interest in activities, and these feelings can occur if you're having difficulties managing your UC. If you are finding it difficult to cope with UC, talk with your healthcare team about options. They may recommend trying an antidepressant.
Zawya
02-07-2025
- Health
- Zawya
Saudi German Hospital Jeddah becomes the first and only hospital outside the USA to earn Magnet recognition with distinction
In a historic milestone for healthcare worldwide, Saudi German Hospital Jeddah has been officially awarded Magnet Recognition with Distinction by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) — the most prestigious international honor for nursing performance and patient care quality. This makes SGH Jeddah the first and only hospital outside the United States to receive this designation, setting a new global benchmark and placing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at the forefront of nursing excellence. Magnet with Distinction is awarded to only the highest-performing Magnet organizations globally, recognizing institutions that not only meet but exceed rigorous standards in nursing leadership, innovation, and patient outcomes. SGH Jeddah now stands as a global role model for nursing excellence, committed to delivering world-class care and transforming the patient experience. 'This is a proud moment for Jeddah and for our entire Saudi German Health family,' said Makarem Sobhi Batterjee, Vice Chairman of Saudi German Health. 'To be the first and only hospital outside the USA to earn Magnet Recognition with Distinction is an extraordinary achievement. It honors the incredible people behind our vision: our nurses, our caregivers, and our entire healthcare team. Their daily dedication enables us to bring world-class care to our community. Today, Saudi German Hospital Jeddah stands as a symbol of what's possible when compassion and excellence come together in service of every patient.' Dr. Ahmed Shebl, Group CEO of Saudi German Health, added: 'The Magnet Recognition is far more than a credential, earning it with Distinction places us among the most elite hospitals worldwide. It reflects a culture that relentlessly pushes the boundaries of what healthcare can achieve. This honor affirms that we are not only delivering care, but transforming lives through innovation, leadership, and patient-centered excellence.' Ms. Iman El Kouwatly, Group Chief Nursing Officer, shared: 'For our nurses, this recognition is deeply personal. Being recognized with Distinction validates the heart, skill, and excellence they bring to every patient encounter. Under the leadership of Eng. Ahmed El Banna, CEO of SGH Jeddah, and Ms. Hadia Al Tabsh, CNO of SGH Jeddah, our nursing team lives our philosophy of 'caring like family' giving their best every day to make a meaningful difference.' The Magnet Recognition Program is the gold standard for nursing excellence globally, with Magnet hospitals consistently delivering superior patient outcomes, higher satisfaction, and increased staff engagement. With this achievement, Saudi German Hospital Jeddah joins SGH Aseer and SGH Riyadh as part of a select group of Magnet-designated institutions within Saudi German Health, reinforcing the group's leadership in quality care and its commitment to 'Caring like family': combining innovation with heart, for every patient, every time. -Ends-
Health Line
12-06-2025
- Health
- Health Line
How Do You Treat Type 1 Diabetes?
Managing type 1 diabetes means you'll have to take insulin each day. You may also work with a doctor to treat T1D with other medications in addition to insulin, and determine what else may be best for your diabetes care goals. Treating type 1 diabetes (T1D) is not as simple as just taking a particular medication or using a therapy, but it's more of a management puzzle that has many different parts. People with T1D must take insulin because their bodies do not naturally produce it. This is a required and first-line treatment for anyone with this autoimmune condition. Beyond that, people with T1D may also take other medications and use different methods to help manage their blood sugar levels. This is where your healthcare team plays a key role in helping to create a diabetes management plan and how to best treat your T1D based on many factors. Managing type 1 diabetes While the 'treatment' for a chronic condition is often viewed through the lens of medications or other therapies, T1D is one of those that requires constant management and affects how certain medications work. That is why treating T1D goes beyond just insulin and medication use. Diabetes management involves monitoring blood sugar levels, keeping track of what you consume each day, maintaining enough physical activity, managing your mental health, and more. Using insulin People with T1D must take insulin each day. Their bodies don't naturally make insulin, so it must be administered in another way. Many different types of insulin exist, ranging from fast short-acting insulin taken each time you eat or consume carbohydrates to longer-acting insulin that lasts in your body for hours at a time. Whatever type of insulin you take, you administer it through injections with a syringe or prefilled insulin pen. Others may choose to use an insulin pump device to administer their insulin each day. Insulin pens Many different types of insulin pens exist for long-acting and mealtime insulin forms. You may find these differ slightly based on the insulin you're using. Many of the most common insulin pens are disposable. They contain a prefilled cartridge that can be used for a certain number of days, and when the cartridge is empty, the entire pen is thrown away. Some reusable pens are also available, allowing you to replace the insulin cartridge when it's empty. The needles on insulin pens are known as pen needles, and they come in different lengths and thicknesses based on your preferences. Insulin pumps Insulin pumps are wearable devices that people with diabetes use to deliver insulin. They are connected to a spot on your body and continuously give insulin for 2 to 4 days. These devices deliver a programmed amount of insulin through a small tube called a cannula, inserted just under the top layer of your skin. Your doctor will work with you to determine how much insulin you need each day. Insulin pumps can also deliver an insulin bolus, which is an extra dose of insulin in addition to your basal rate. Some pumps may automatically give you boluses based on your higher blood sugar or carbs, but most allow you to enter a manual bolus for the pump to deliver when needed. Historically, insulin pumps were completely manual devices that you had to program for any insulin. In more recent years, advanced technology now available allows for algorithms to calculate and automatically deliver if you use the device with a connected CGM. Off-label medications for type 1 diabetes Other diabetes medications may also be something to discuss with your doctor. These may include Metformin, GLP-1s, or SGLT-2s meds, which aren't cleared by regulators to use with T1D but may be beneficial beyond that labeling. While some research does show the benefit of these medications for T1D, it indicates there may not be a significant blood sugar improvement, and there may be a high risk of increased hypoglycemia, hyperglycemia, and DKA. That is why it's always important to consult a doctor and your diabetes care team to discuss possible pros and cons if you're interested in using an off-label treatment for T1D along with insulin. It's also important to take all medications as prescribed. Metformin Metformin is a type of oral medication that's approved for type 2 diabetes. However, it's now also commonly prescribed by doctors, and some people with T1Ds use them successfully along with their insulin. Since some T1Ds can develop insulin resistance, the insulin they take each day may not work as well as it once did. Metformin may be an option because it helps reduce sugar production in the liver. Your doctor may advise you to take Metformin in addition to insulin, but that could mean they'd have to write an off-label prescription. GLP-1s Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1) agonists help manage blood sugar levels and reduce hunger and food intake, possibly supporting weight loss along with managing diabetes glucose levels. These may include: Ozempic Wegovy Trulicity Victoza While these are FDA-cleared for those with T2D, some people with type 1 diabetes also choose to use these for the same reasons. The diabetes clinical community, along with T1Ds, has been advocating for the FDA to consider labeling these medications beyond just T2D use, but as of mid-2025, that hasn't yet materialized. SGLT-2 inhibitors Sodium-glucose transport protein 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors are a class of medications that are also known as gliflozins. These prevent glucose from reabsorbing after it's filtered through your kidneys, helping that glucose to leave your body through urine and lowering blood sugar levels. Invokana Jardiance Farxiga Steglatro This 2023 research review found moderate benefits for SGLT-2s in people type 1 diabetes, without an increase in risk or side effects. One specific SGLT-2 called Sotagliflozin (Zynquista) could eventually be used to treat T1D along with insulin. It would work to lower glucose levels by forcing the body to release it in urine and reducing glucose absorption in the gut. This 2019 research review shows the promise of the medication being used for T1D. However, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) denied Sotagliflozin in both 2019 and 2024 due to some concerns about the medication. However, it is approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and may be reconsidered by the FDA in the future. Consult your diabetes care team Managing and treating type 1 diabetes is a very individualized process that requires working with your healthcare team. They can best help you understand the condition and learn what treatments may be best for your personal diabetes management and health goals. Always consult your care team before making any treatment decisions, including the types and dosages of any medications you take. For people with T1D, this will likely include diabetes specialists, including an endocrinologist, diabetes care and education specialist, and nutritionist or dietitian. Cure research and related treatments While there isn't a T1D cure on the horizon, researchers continue studying ways to prevent this autoimmune condition and reverse it for those who've already been diagnosed. Some of the more promising research avenues currently include: Gene therapy For T1D, gene therapy could involve reprogramming alternative cells, making those reprogrammed cells perform the functions of the original insulin-producing beta cells. But the reprogrammed cells would be different enough from beta cells so that your own immune system wouldn't recognize them as 'new cells' and attack them, which is what happens in the development of T1D. Islet cell transplants This involves transplanting donated or newly created insulin-making islet cells into the body or pancreas of someone with T1D. Islet transplants aren't new and have been an experimental treatment for many years. This requires immunosuppressant drugs, which often have other side effects and are more expensive. Despite the limited promise of this therapy, many challenges exist. In 2023, the FDA approved a first-of-its-kind treatment for a small number of people with T1D who have severe hypoglycemia and struggle to maintain their blood sugars. Known as Lantrida, this is the first pancreatic islet cellular therapy made from deceased donor pancreatic cells. Other ongoing research explores using stem cells to generate new islet cells rather than transplanting them. Functional bionic therapy Largely based on technology that includes insulin pumps and continuous glucose monitors (CGM), these options to treat and manage T1D may be considered a 'functional cure' —something that basically makes life with this type of diabetes minimally burdensome and almost as 'good as being cured' for some people. These may be the evolving technologies, including closed-loop systems that automatically manage insulin and glucose monitoring to keep blood sugars in target range. Various early systems exist and are getting better, and some believe that this could eventually become a standard of care in managing T1D — assuming affordability and access allow for it. The takeaway Insulin is the main and only required treatment for type 1 diabetes. This is needed because people with T1D don't naturally make insulin in their bodies as those without the condition do. Other medications and types of therapy, alongside insulin, may also help people manage their blood sugar levels and diabetes overall. Some of these prescription medications may be considered 'off-label' drugs if your doctor is willing to prescribe them for T1D. Diabetes management means routine blood sugar monitoring, exercise and eating routines, and other aspects, from sleep to mental health.
Yahoo
31-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
FirstHealth achieves ISO 9001 certification
PINEHURST — FirstHealth of the Carolinas recently earned ISO 9001 certification from DNV, a globally recognized accrediting body. 'This achievement underscores FirstHealth's unwavering dedication to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care across its network of hospitals and clinics,' a news release said. ISO 9001 is one of the most widely recognized quality management system standards, emphasizing principles such as strong customer focus, leadership involvement, process approach and continual improvement. By aligning with these principles, FirstHealth aims to enhance patient satisfaction and operational efficiency. The certification process involved a comprehensive evaluation of FirstHealth's quality management systems, including patient care protocols, administrative procedures and continuous improvement initiatives. This rigorous assessment ensures that the organization meets international standards for quality and safety. 'Achieving ISO 9001 certification reflects our organization's commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in patient care,' Cindy McDonald, chief quality officer for FirstHealth of the Carolinas, said. 'This milestone is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who strive daily to uphold the highest standards in health care.'
BBC News
22-05-2025
- Health
- BBC News
NHS services provided at new health hub for north Oxford
A new NHS health hub has opened in Oxford - the first of its kind in House, near Kidlington, is now the home of a range of services for patients in the north of the city, including district nurses, podiatry and children's and adult specialist in the Summertown and Jericho areas of Oxford, which previously housed some of the services, will be Gibson, from Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, said the new hub on the Jordan Hill Business Park would provide "excellent care" and help with the recruitment and retention of staff. "Attracting staff is hard at the best of times," he said. "Students are taught in a multi-disciplinary way - and that's what they would expect to see in a workplace."Our teams, sitting together, can actually start to talk to each in a way they just didn't before because they were located in different parts of the city."The trust plans to create three hubs in the city, one at the existing East Oxford Health Centre on Manzil Way and another for the south in the Blackbird Leys Gibson said Murray House was "a much, much better facility [and] easier for people to get to, with much better public transport links". Katie Lennon, who runs the reception team at Murray House, said a patient "might be able to see a podiatrist at 10 o'clock and a district nurse at half past 10".She said Oxford Health will use Murray House as "a learning tool" so future hubs will be "equipped with as much information as they can".Staff started moving in toward the end of April, with the first patients arriving by 5 official opening ceremony is expected to be held later this year. You can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X, or Instagram.
