Patch perfect: The transdermal method of delivering drugs or nutritional supplements through a patch on the skin now accounts for 10 per cent of drug delivery systems, according to the European Pharmaceutical Review.
Patches now available include HRT patches, pain management patches, stop-smoking patches, travel sickness patches and anaesthetic dental patches (as an alternative to anaesthetic by needle). Patches are particularly used for their sustained release of medication or supplement directly into the bloodstream.
Sight signs: Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the Western world, suffered by 60,000 adults in Ireland. Affecting those in their 50s or over, early signs of AMD include distortion and blurring in the centre of vision, making straight lines appear wavy. Approximately 85 per cent of sufferers have the dry form of AMD which develops slowly and leads to a gradual decrease in central vision. The other 15 per cent suffer from wet AMD which progresses rapidly. If diagnosed early, sight loss can be reduced in the latter form. For a free information leaflet on AMD, tel:1800 523 175.
Breath of fresh air: A new service for patients with breathing difficulties is available at Beaumont Hospital in Dublin. The outreach team consists of a respiratory nurse specialist and respiratory physiotherapist who visit patients in their homes after they have been discharged from hospital . The service aims to provide a patient friendly, high quality alternative to in-patient hospital care for suitable patients with breathing problems. The team provides education on medications, breathlessness, energy conservation, exercise and coping strategies, and aims to bridge the gap between hospital and community by providing a safe transition home. Now the team has organised a series of lectures entitled "Living with chronic lung disease". They are held on Tuesdays at 6.30 p.m. in the Roberts Adams lecture theatre, Beaumont Hospital. For more details, tel: (01) 8093935 or e-mail: copdoutreach@beaumont.ie.
Hormone imbalance: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition caused by hormonal imbalance which affects women between the ages of puberty and menopause. It can cause infertility, higher chances of miscarriage and, if left untreated, it can cause heart disease, diabetes and endometrial cancer. The support group PCOS Ireland has been set up. Its next meeting will be held on July 6th at 2 p.m. in Jury's Hotel Ballsbridge. Sarah Keogh, head of nutrition at the Bons Secours Hospital, Glasnevin, will address the meeting on "PCOS and Diet". To book a place send an e-mail to events@pcosireland.com. For further information about PCOS Ireland, tel: (01) 838 0100.