ROYO hospital limited

25/09/2024

Risk Factors for Developing UTIs
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment
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Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common infections encountered in medical practice. Affecting millions of people worldwide, UTIs occur when harmful bacteria invade the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. While UTIs can affect anyone, they are particularly prevalent among women. Understanding the signs, symptoms, and effective treatment options for UTIs is essential for timely management and prevention.

What Is a Urinary Tract Infection?

A urinary tract infection is defined as an infection that affects any part of the urinary system. This includes:

Cystitis (bladder infection): The most common type of UTI, characterized by inflammation of the bladder.
Urethritis (urethra infection): Infection of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body.
Pyelonephritis (kidney infection): A more severe form of UTI that affects one or both kidneys, potentially leading to serious complications if not treated promptly.
UTIs are primarily caused by bacteria, though in rare cases, fungi and viruses can also be responsible. The most common pathogen involved in UTIs is Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally resides in the intestines but can enter the urinary tract.
Signs and Symptoms of UTIs

The signs and symptoms of a UTI can vary depending on the affected part of the urinary tract. However, common symptoms include:

Frequent Urination: An increased urge to urinate is a hallmark symptom, even when the bladder is not full.
Burning Sensation During Urination: Dysuria, or pain while urinating, is often experienced by individuals with UTIs.
Cloudy or Dark Urine: The urine may appear cloudy, dark, or even reddish if blood is present.
Strong Odor: A noticeable and unpleasant smell may accompany the urine.
Pelvic Pain: Women may experience pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area.
Flank Pain: In cases where the kidneys are affected (pyelonephritis), pain may be felt in the back or side.
Fever and Chills: If the infection ascends to the kidneys, systemic symptoms like fever, chills, nausea, and vomiting may occur.
In certain populations, such as the elderly, symptoms may be atypical or less pronounced, making diagnosis more challenging. It’s crucial for individuals experiencing any of these symptoms to seek medical attention.

Risk Factors for Developing UTIs

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing a urinary tract infection:

Female Anatomy: Women have shorter urethras, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.

Sexual Activity: Increased s*xual activity can introduce bacteria into the urinary tract.

Certain Birth Control Methods: Use of diaphragms or spermicidal agents can increase the risk of UTIs.

Menopause: Post-menopausal women may have a higher risk due to changes in vaginal flora and decreased estrogen levels.

Urinary Retention: Inability to fully empty the bladder can create an environment conducive to bacterial growth.

Urinary Tract Abnormalities: Congenital abnormalities or blockages in the urinary tract can predispose individuals to UTIs.

Catheter Use: Individuals who require catheters for urinary drainage are at a significantly increased risk of developing UTIs.

Immunocompromised State: Conditions that weaken the immune system, such as diabetes or HIV/AIDS, can increase susceptibility to infections.

Diagnosis of UTIs

The diagnosis of a urinary tract infection typically involves several steps:

Medical History: The healthcare provider will assess symptoms, frequency of urinary issues, and any previous occurrences of UTIs.

Physical Examination: A physical exam may be performed to assess any abdominal or pelvic discomfort.

Urine Sample: A urine sample (urinalysis) is collected to detect the presence of bacteria, white blood cells, red blood cells, and other indicators of infection. A urine culture may also be performed to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and determine the appropriate antibiotics for treatment.

Imaging Tests: In recurrent or complicated cases, imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans may be conducted to identify any structural abnormalities or obstructions in the urinary tract.

Treatment of Urinary Tract Infections

The treatment of UTIs primarily involves the use of antibiotics to eradicate the underlying infection. The choice of antibiotic may depend on the bacteria identified in urine cultures and individual patient factors. Here are the key aspects of UTI management:

1. Antibiotic Therapy

Antibiotics are the cornerstone of UTI treatment, and the type prescribed may vary based on the specific bacteria involved, the patient’s health history, and any allergies. Commonly prescribed antibiotics include:

Nitrofurantoin (Macrobid, Macrodantin): Effective for uncomplicated UTIs, particularly cystitis.

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim, Septra): Often used for uncomplicated UTIs but may not be suitable in areas with high resistance rates.

Ciprofloxacin (Cipro): A fluoroquinolone antibiotic used for more complicated UTIs.

Amoxicillin: Sometimes used for UTIs, particularly in pregnant women.

Fosfomycin (Monurol): An effective single-dose treatment option for uncomplicated cystitis.

Treatment duration typically ranges from three to seven days for uncomplicated UTIs, whereas complicated cases may require longer courses of antibiotics.

2. Symptomatic Relief

In addition to antibiotics, symptomatic relief can be important for managing discomfort associated with UTIs. Over-the-counter medications, such as phenazopyridine (Azo, Pyridium), can alleviate pain and burning sensations during urination. However, these medications do not treat the infection itself; they only provide temporary relief.

3. Hydration

Increased fluid intake is crucial during a UTI. Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract and promotes healing. Avoiding caffeine and alcohol is recommended, as they can irritate the bladder.

4. Follow-Up Care

Patients with recurrent UTIs or those with complicated infections may require follow-up visits for further evaluation. Healthcare providers may recommend additional testing or imaging studies to assess the urinary tract's anatomy and function. In some cases, prophylactic antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent future infections, particularly in individuals with frequent recurrences.

Preventing Urinary Tract Infections

Prevention strategies can significantly reduce the risk of developing UTIs. Here are some effective measures:

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps dilute urine and flush out bacteria.

Urinate Regularly: Avoid holding in urine for extended periods, as this can encourage bacterial growth.

Post-Sexual Practices: Urinating after s*xual in*******se can help eliminate any bacteria that may have entered the urinary tract.

Wipe Front to Back: After using the toilet, wiping from front to back helps prevent bacteria from the re**um from entering the urethra.

Avoid Irritants: Limiting the use of perfumed soaps, bubble baths, and feminine hygiene sprays can reduce irritation of the urethra.

Choose Appropriate Birth Control: Discussing birth control options with a healthcare provider can help minimize UTI risk, especially for s*xually active women.

Probiotics: Some evidence suggests that probiotics may help restore healthy vaginal flora and reduce UTI risk.

Complications of UTIs

If left untreated, UTIs can lead to several serious complications, including:

Kidney Infection (Pyelonephritis): A more severe infection that can result in kidney damage, sepsis, or hospitalization.

Recurrent Infections: Some individuals may experience repeated UTIs, necessitating further medical intervention.

Permanent Kidney Damage: Chronic or severe infections can lead to lasting damage to the kidneys.

Urethral Stricture: In rare cases, recurrent infections can lead to scarring and narrowing of the urethra.

Urinary tract infections are a common but manageable condition that can significantly impact an individual's quality of life. Prompt recognition of the signs and symptoms, accurate diagnosis, and timely treatment are essential for effective management. By understanding the causes, risk factors, and preventive measures, individuals can take proactive steps to reduce their risk of UTIs and maintain optimal urinary health.

For those experiencing symptoms of a UTI, seeking medical attention is crucial to prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment. With proper care and lifestyle adjustments, most individuals can successfully manage and prevent urinary tract infections.

29/08/2024

If a man is experiencing chronic waist pain, there could be several underlying reasons contributing to this discomfort. Understanding the root cause is crucial for effective treatment and management. Here are some common reasons why someone might suffer from persistent waist pain:

1. **Poor Posture**: Prolonged periods of sitting or standing with poor posture can strain the muscles and ligaments in the lower back. This can lead to chronic pain and discomfort. Ergonomic adjustments to workspaces and mindful posture corrections can help alleviate this issue.

2. **Muscle Strain or Injury**: Overexertion from physical activities, improper lifting techniques, or sudden movements can strain the muscles in the lower back. This type of pain is often acute but can become chronic if the underlying muscle strain is not properly addressed or healed.

3. **Herniated Disc**: A herniated disc occurs when the soft material inside a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the disc's outer layer, pressing on nearby nerves. This condition can cause significant pain in the lower back and may radiate down the legs. Diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare professional are essential for managing this condition.

4. **Spinal Stenosis**: This condition involves the narrowing of the spinal canal, which can compress the spinal cord and nerves. It often causes lower back pain, along with numbness or weakness in the legs. Treatment options can vary from physical therapy to surgery, depending on the severity.

5. **Degenerative Disc Disease**: As people age, the spinal discs can lose their cushioning ability, leading to pain and discomfort. This condition can be exacerbated by factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and overall spinal health.

6. **Kidney Problems**: Sometimes, pain in the waist or lower back can be referred pain from issues with the kidneys, such as kidney stones or infections. This type of pain might be accompanied by other symptoms, such as changes in urination or fever.

7. **Obesity**: Excess weight can place additional strain on the lower back, leading to chronic pain. Weight management through diet and exercise can be an effective way to alleviate this type of discomfort.

Addressing chronic waist pain involves identifying and treating the underlying cause. This may include medical evaluation, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or other interventions. It’s important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to the specific cause of the pain

27/06/2024

The Risks of Stopping Hypertension Medication

Stopping your hypertension medication without consulting your healthcare provider can lead to serious health risks. Here's what can happen:

Rebound Hypertension: Suddenly stopping medication can cause your blood pressure to spike to dangerously high levels. This is known as rebound hypertension and can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events.

Increased Risk of Complications: Consistently high blood pressure can damage your arteries, leading to heart disease, kidney damage, and other serious health issues.
Managing Medication Side Effects

It's important to understand that while hypertension medications are effective in controlling blood pressure, they can sometimes cause side effects. However, these side effects should not be something you have to endure. Common side effects include:

• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Often due to a drop in blood pressure.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Headaches: Some medications can cause mild to moderate headaches.
• Digestive Issues: Such as nausea, constipation, or diarrhea.
• Cough: Persistent dry cough can occur with certain medications, like ACE inhibitors.
• Swelling: In the legs or ankles, particularly with calcium channel blockers.

What to Do if You Experience Side Effects

If you experience any of these side effects, it's important to contact your healthcare provider rather than stopping the medication on your own. Here are steps you can take:
1. Report the Side Effects: Keep a record of what you're experiencing and discuss it with your doctor.
2. Adjust the Dosage: Sometimes, side effects can be managed by adjusting the dosage.
3. Switch Medications: There are many different types of hypertension medications. Your doctor may be able to switch you to another medication that works better for you with fewer side effects.
4. Lifestyle Changes: Sometimes, lifestyle changes can help reduce the dosage of medication needed or enhance its effectiveness, reducing side effects.

11/06/2024

Heart Blockage Symptoms In Men aged 40 and above:

Heart blockage, also known as coronary artery disease, is a serious health issue where the blockage or narrowing down of blood vessels disrupts the smooth transportation of oxygen and nutrients to the heart. This situation could invite several health risks, including a heart attack and stroke. There are many factors that can contribute to this life-threatening condition, however, one of the most dangerous ones is high cholesterol levels. Excessive buildup of bad cholesterol (LDL) inside the heart arteries can lead to the narrowing of the blood flow channel. This condition, termed atherosclerosis, reduces the width of arteries, hindering the smooth flow of blood to the heart. As this progresses, blood clots could form blocking blood circulation to the heart muscle, facilitating a heart attack or other heart-related complications.

In this article, we take a look at some of the signs of high cholesterol-induced heart blockage in the legs and feet at night.

7 Signs of High Cholesterol Induced Heart Attack In Legs and Feet At Night
If you are suffering from high cholesterol, and your heart is at risk of an attack, make sure to take note of these warning signs and symptoms of an impending heart attack in your legs and feet, especially at night.

Swollen Feet And Legs
Sudden swelling in the feet or lower legs could be a red flag for poor circulation borne from possible obstructions in the heart's arteries. The swelling might play peek-a-boo more towards the day's end or after an extended sit-stand routine.

Numbness Sensation In Legs And Feet
High cholesterol can also send a tingling or numb sensation down the legs or feet, making you feel like you are uncomfortable. If you ever experience this sign at night, it may be a hint at reduced blood flow, raising a heart health red flag.

Heaviness In Legs and Feet
Are you experiencing a heavy or tightening sensation in your legs and feet, especially at night time? It could be your body's way of signalling a heart blockage.

A very common sign of heart blockage that can be noticed in your legs and feet at night is an unexplained change in skin colour. If your legs or feet start adopting a new shade of blue or purple, it might be due to the poor circulation that is caused by heart blockages.

Cold Feet and Legs
Persistently cold feet, even when you are in a warm and cozy environment, might be a subtle sign that your body is giving you about your heart condition. This reduction in foot temps could be attributed to poor circulation from cholesterol clashes in the arteries.

Pain In Legs and Unexplained Cramps
Are you battling with nighttime leg cramps that seem more intense than your regular muscle cramps? Beware! This could signal that your blood flow has been compromised due to high cholesterol buildup inside the arteries.

Feeling Weak
Are you experiencing a sudden loss of pulse in your legs and feet? A weak or faint pulse, especially when compared with the arms, might be a silent messenger of reduced blood flow due to heart hindrances.

Take a note of all the signs and symptoms mentioned above. They are some very common indicators of heart blockage due to the build-up of excessive bad cholesterol (LDL) in the arteries.

11/06/2024

Receiving a HIV-positive diagnosis can be an overwhelming experience, marked by fear, uncertainty, and stigma. However, it's crucial to emphasize that being HIV-positive is not a death sentence. With advancements in medical treatment, HIV has transformed from a once fatal disease to a manageable chronic condition.

Firstly, accessing appropriate medical care is paramount. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has revolutionized HIV treatment, allowing individuals to effectively manage the virus and live long, healthy lives. These medications work by suppressing the virus, reducing its ability to replicate in the body. When taken consistently and correctly, ART can lower the viral load to undetectable levels, greatly reducing the risk of transmitting HIV to others. Additionally, regular medical check-ups are essential for monitoring viral load, CD4 cell count, and overall health.

Moreover, support networks play a crucial role in navigating life with HIV. Whether it's through peer support groups, counseling services, or online communities, connecting with others who understand the challenges of living with HIV can provide invaluable emotional support and practical advice. Breaking the silence and stigma surrounding HIV can also empower individuals to seek the help and support they need without fear of judgment or discrimination.

Furthermore, adopting a healthy lifestyle can complement medical treatment and improve overall well-being. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, avoiding substance abuse, and practicing safer s*x to prevent the transmission of HIV and other s*xually transmitted infections.

It's also important to address mental health concerns that may arise after an HIV diagnosis. Feelings of anxiety, depression, and isolation are common, but seeking professional help from therapists or counselors can provide coping strategies and emotional support.

In conclusion, being HIV-positive is a manageable condition with the right medical care, support, and lifestyle choices. By taking proactive steps to prioritize health and well-being, individuals can lead TO GOOD HEALTH

Testing positive for HIV can be overwhelming; it’s important to remember that HIV can be treated effectively with HIV medicines.

09/06/2024

Acne Awareness Month: Shining a Light on Skin Health in June

June marks Acne Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about one of the most common skin conditions affecting millions worldwide. Acne is often dismissed as a mere teenage affliction, but it can persist well into adulthood, impacting individuals' self-esteem and overall quality of life. By shining a light on this prevalent issue, we aim to educate, support, and encourage those who are struggling with acne.

Understanding Acne: More Than Just Pimples

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It manifests as blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts, and nodules, primarily on the face, shoulders, back, and chest. While often associated with adolescence, acne can affect people of all ages and is influenced by various factors, including genetics, hormones, diet, and stress.

The Emotional and Psychological Impact

Beyond the physical symptoms, acne can have profound emotional and psychological effects. Studies have shown that individuals with acne are at a higher risk of experiencing anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. The visible nature of acne can lead to feelings of embarrassment and low self-esteem, significantly affecting one's personal and professional life.

Breaking the Stigma: Acne Is Not Your Fault

One of the primary goals of Acne Awareness Month is to combat the stigma associated with the condition. Acne is often misunderstood and wrongly attributed to poor hygiene or an unhealthy lifestyle. This misconception can lead to judgment and unsolicited advice, which further isolates those affected. It's crucial to recognize that acne is a medical condition, and those who suffer from it deserve empathy and support.

Advancements in Treatment

The good news is that there have been significant advancements in acne treatment. From over-the-counter topical treatments to prescription medications and cutting-edge therapies like laser treatment and chemical peels, there are numerous options available. Consulting a dermatologist can help individuals find the most effective treatment tailored to their specific needs.

Recommended Remedies

One of the standout products for acne treatment is La Roche-Posay's Effaclar Duo Plus M. This product is enhanced with the new Phylobioma microbiome science, which helps balance the skin's microbiome and reduce the appearance of acne. Its advanced formula not only targets pimples and blackheads but also helps prevent new breakouts, making it a comprehensive solution for acne-prone skin.

Tips for Managing Acne

While professional treatment is essential, here are some general tips that can help manage acne:

Maintain a Gentle Skincare Routine: Use a mild cleanser and avoid scrubbing your skin too hard. Look for non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) products.

Avoid Touching Your Face: Hands can transfer oils and bacteria to your face, exacerbating acne.

Be Mindful of Diet: While the link between diet and acne is still being studied, some people find that reducing dairy or high-glycemic foods can help.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps to keep your skin hydrated and healthy.

Manage Stress: Stress can trigger acne flare-ups. Practices like meditation, exercise, and adequate sleep can help manage stress levels.

How You Can Support Acne Awareness Month

Share Information: Use social media to share articles, infographics, and personal stories to educate others about acne.

Support Organizations: Contribute to or volunteer with organizations dedicated to skin health and dermatological research.

Encourage Open Conversations: Create a safe space for friends, family, and colleagues to talk about their experiences with acne without fear of judgment.

06/06/2024

Types of insulin

If you need insulin to manage your diabetes, you will be prescribed one or more of four main types. The difference between each type is the length of time it works in your body after injecting. You may need to change types or use different combinations from time to time.
Rapid-acting insulin

This clear insulin starts within minutes so can be injected just before or up to 15 minutes before eating. It is the insulin that is used for continuous delivery. It lasts long enough to deal with the rise in blood glucose resulting from a meal, but your blood glucose level will rise once it starts to wear off. The rapid action time means that you are less likely to have a hypo between meals.

Short-acting insulin

Also called soluble insulin, this takes 30–60 minutes to work, so you need to leave 20–30 minutes between injecting and eating. It can keep working for up to 9 hours, and you may need to balance its peak action by having a carbohydrate snack 2–3 hours after injecting to prevent your blood glucose level from falling and causing a hypo. With type 1 diabetes, you also need a longer-acting insulin to ensure you have insulin available throughout the day and night.

Intermediate-acting insulin

This cloudy insulin, also called isophane insulin, helps to keep your blood glucose level in your target range throughout the day. However, you may need to eat something around its peak action time to prevent a hypo. If you have type 1 diabetes, you might be prescribed an intermediate-acting insulin with a shorter acting insulin to stop your blood glucose level rising after your shorter-acting insulin has worn off. If you have type 2 diabetes, you may be prescribed intermediate-acting insulin in this way,
or on its own, or with other types of medication

Long-acting insulin

This clear insulin starts working within 1–2 hours and is effective for 24 hours or more. It doesn’t have a peak action, so you are less likely to have a hypo than with some other insulins. If you have type 1 diabetes, you may be prescribed a long-acting insulin with rapid-acting insulin given separately to cover the rise in blood glucose at mealtimes. If you have type 2 diabetes, you may be prescribed long-acting insulin in this way, or on its own, or with tablets.

PRE-MIXED INSULINS
These ready-made combinations of rapid- or short-acting and intermediate acting insulin come in a range of fixed proportions. Examples include biphasic insulin aspart, biphasic insulin lispro, and biphasic human isophane. They work within 30 minutes and last for 12–14 hours. Usually injected twice a day, they are useful if you want to limit injections and if you have a regular lifestyle and mealtimes.

30/05/2024

Occasional periods of forgetfulness or “brain fog” where you can’t think clearly or have trouble multitasking and comprehending information is an unfortunate sign of aging. But you may not know that some over-the-counter and prescription drugs can affect your memory and cognitive function too.

1. Sleeping aids (nonbenzodiazepine sedative-hypnotics)
Why they are prescribed: Sometimes called the “Z” drugs, these medications can be used to treat insomnia and other sleep problems. They also are prescribed for mild anxiety.

Examples: Eszopiclone (Lunesta), zaleplon (Sonata) and zolpidem (Ambien).

How they can affect memory: Although these are molecularly distinct from benzodiazepines (see No. 1, above), they act on many of the same brain pathways and chemical messengers, producing similar side effects and problems with addiction and withdrawal. The “Z” drugs also can cause amnesia and sometimes trigger dangerous or strange behaviors, such as cooking a meal or driving a car with no recollection of the event upon awakening.

Alternatives: There are alternative drug and nondrug treatments for insomnia and anxiety, so talk with your health care professional about options. Melatonin, for instance, can help to reestablish healthy sleep patterns. And cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is the first-line treatment for the sleep disorder.

Before stopping or reducing the dosage of these sleeping aids, be sure to consult your health care provider. Sudden withdrawal can cause serious side effects, so a health professional should always monitor the process.

2. Incontinence drugs (anticholinergics)
Why they are prescribed: These medications are used to relieve symptoms of overactive bladder and reduce episodes of urge incontinence, an urge to urinate so sudden and strong that you often can’t get to a bathroom in time.

Examples: Darifenacin (Enablex), oxybutynin (Ditropan XL), solifenacin (Vesicare), tolterodine (Detrol) and trospium (Sanctura). Another oxybutynin product, Oxytrol for Women, is sold over the counter.

How they can affect memory: Patients who take anticholinergics can have complications with their long-term memory, says Merrey. These medications have been associated with an increased risk of dementia, and that heightened risk can persist even after the medication has been discontinued.

That’s because these drugs block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that mediates all sorts of functions in the body. In the bladder, anticholinergics prevent involuntary contractions of the muscles that control urine flow. In the brain, they inhibit activity in the memory and learning centers. The risk of memory loss is heightened when the drugs are taken for more than a short time or used with other anticholinergic drugs.

Older adults are particularly vulnerable to the other adverse effects of anticholinergic drugs, including constipation (which, in turn, can cause urinary incontinence), blurred vision, dizziness, anxiety, depression and hallucinations.

Alternatives: As a first step, it’s important to make sure that you have been properly diagnosed. Check with your doctor or other health professional to see if your urinary incontinence symptoms might stem from another condition (such as a bladder infection or another form of incontinence) or a medication (such as a blood pressure drug, diuretic or muscle relaxant).

Once these are ruled out, try some simple lifestyle changes, such as cutting back on caffeinated and alcoholic beverages, drinking less before bedtime and doing exercises to strengthen the pelvic muscles that help control urination.

Some urologists are treating overactive bladder with Botox injections to help the muscle relax. Solutions beyond the medicine aisle can also come in handy. “I’ve been really thrilled with the improvements in protective [undergarment] items. They’ve really come a long way,” says K. Ashley Garling-Nañez, clinical assistant professor at the University of Texas at Austin College of Pharmacy. “There are a lot more options for active adults.”

3. Cholesterol-Lowering Drugs
There have been several studies that claim statins and other high cholesterol busters may impair memory by lowering cholesterol levels in the brain as well as in the blood. Lipids in the blood are essential in the formation of connections between nerve cells, which underlie memory and learning.

The FDA warns that some people may experience memory loss or confusion while taking statins, a type of cholesterol-lowering drug. However, the evidence is conflicting, and some studies have found that statins have no effect on memory. For example, a 2015 study found that people who take any type of cholesterol drug are almost four times more likely to report memory loss right after starting the drug, but it also compared people who didn’t take cholesterol drugs to those who did. A 2003 review of case reports and literature found that about 50% of patients reported cognitive side effects within two months of taking statins, but 56% of those patients saw improvements when they stopped taking the drug.

In 2012, the FDA modified the labels for statins to reflect their increased risk for memory problems.

What You Can Do: Be sure to tell your doctor of any noticeable changes you see after taking your medication

4. Narcotic painkillers (opioids)
Why they are prescribed: These medications are sometimes used to relieve moderate to severe pain from surgery or injuries. In some instances, they can also be used to treat chronic pain.

Examples: Fentanyl (available as a patch), hydrocodone (Vicodin), hydromorphone (Dilaudid, Exalgo), morphine and oxycodone (Oxycontin). These drugs come in many different forms, including tablets, solutions for injection, transdermal patches and suppositories.

How they can affect memory: These drugs work by stemming the flow of pain signals within the central nervous system and by blunting one’s emotional reaction to pain. Both these actions are mediated by chemical messengers that are also involved in many aspects of cognition, so use of these drugs can interfere with long- and short-term memory, especially when used for extended periods of time. Researchers have also found a link between opioid use and dementia in older adults.

Alternatives: In patients under the age of 50 years, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the frontline therapy for pain. Unfortunately, NSAID therapy is less appropriate for older patients, who have a much higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Research shows the risk goes up with the dosage and duration of treatment.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be another option, but again, it’s important to consult your doctor about risks, side effects and drug interactions for all medications.

5. Antianxiety drugs (benzodiazepines)
Why they are prescribed: Benzodiazepines are used to treat a variety of anxiety disorders, agitation, seizures, and delirium and muscle spasms. Because benzodiazepines have a sedative effect, they are sometimes used to treat insomnia and the anxiety that can accompany depression.

Examples: Alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide, clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Va**um), flurazepam, lorazepam (Ativan), midazolam, quazepam (Doral), temazepam (Restoril) and triazolam (Halcion).

How they can affect memory: Benzodiazepines dampen activity in key parts of the brain, including those involved in the transfer of events from short-term to long-term memory. In fact, they’re used in anesthesia for this very reason.

Alternatives: Benzodiazepines should be prescribed only rarely in older adults, and then only for short periods of time. It takes older people much longer than younger people to flush these drugs out of their bodies, and the ensuing buildup puts older adults at higher risk for not just memory loss but delirium, falls, fractures and motor vehicle accidents. Another drawback: They’re addicting, says D.P. Devanand, M.D., professor of psychiatry and neurology at Columbia University Medical Center.

Talk with your doctor or other health care professional about treating your condition with other types of drugs or nondrug treatments. If you are taking these medications for insomnia, for instance, the first line of treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). And an antidepressant might be able to treat your anxiety, Devanand notes.

Be sure to consult your health care professional before stopping or reducing the dosage of any benzodiazepine. Sudden withdrawal can trigger serious side effects, so a health professional should always monitor the process.

connections between nerve cells, which underlie memory and learning.

The FDA warns that some people may experience memory loss or confusion while taking statins, a type of cholesterol-lowering drug. However, the evidence is conflicting, and some studies have found that statins have no effect on memory. For example, a 2015 study found that people who take any type of cholesterol drug are almost four times more likely to report memory loss right after starting the drug, but it also compared people who didn’t take cholesterol drugs to those who did. A 2003 review of case reports and literature found that about 50% of patients reported cognitive side effects within two months of taking statins, but 56% of those patients saw improvements when they stopped taking the drug.

In 2012, the FDA modified the labels for statins to reflect their increased risk for memory problems.

What You Can Do: Be sure to tell your doctor of any noticeable changes you see after taking your medication

4. Narcotic painkillers (opioids)
Why they are prescribed: These medications are sometimes used to relieve moderate to severe pain from surgery or injuries. In some instances, they can also be used to treat chronic pain.

Examples: Fentanyl (available as a patch), hydrocodone (Vicodin), hydromorphone (Dilaudid, Exalgo), morphine and oxycodone (Oxycontin). These drugs come in many different forms, including tablets, solutions for injection, transdermal patches and suppositories.

How they can affect memory: These drugs work by stemming the flow of pain signals within the central nervous system and by blunting one’s emotional reaction to pain. Both these actions are mediated by chemical messengers that are also involved in many aspects of cognition, so use of these drugs can interfere with long- and short-term memory, especially when used for extended periods of time. Researchers have also found a link between opioid use and dementia in older adults.

Alternatives: In patients under the age of 50 years, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are the frontline therapy for pain. Unfortunately, NSAID therapy is less appropriate for older patients, who have a much higher risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Research shows the risk goes up with the dosage and duration of treatment.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be another option, but again, it’s important to consult your doctor about risks, side effects and drug interactions for all medications.

5. Antianxiety drugs (benzodiazepines)
Why they are prescribed: Benzodiazepines are used to treat a variety of anxiety disorders, agitation, seizures, and delirium and muscle spasms. Because benzodiazepines have a sedative effect, they are sometimes used to treat insomnia and the anxiety that can accompany depression.

Examples: Alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide, clonazepam (Klonopin), diazepam (Va**um), flurazepam, lorazepam (Ativan), midazolam, quazepam (Doral), temazepam (Restoril) and triazolam (Halcion).

How they can affect memory: Benzodiazepines dampen activity in key parts of the brain, including those involved in the transfer of events from short-term to long-term memory. In fact, they’re used in anesthesia for this very reason.

Alternatives: Benzodiazepines should be prescribed only rarely in older adults, and then only for short periods of time. It takes older people much longer than younger people to flush these drugs out of their bodies, and the ensuing buildup puts older adults at higher risk for not just memory loss but delirium, falls, fractures and motor vehicle accidents. Another drawback: They’re addicting, says D.P. Devanand, M.D., professor of psychiatry and neurology at Columbia University Medical Center.

Talk with your doctor or other health care professional about treating your condition with other types of drugs or nondrug treatments. If you are taking these medications for insomnia, for instance, the first line of treatment is cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I). And an antidepressant might be able to treat your anxiety, Devanand notes.

Be sure to consult your health care professional before stopping or reducing the dosage of any benzodiazepine. Sudden withdrawal can trigger serious side effects, so a health professional should always monitor the process.