Friday, October 08, 2004
Revising Old Ideas
Contrary to traditional views, more intensive care isn't always a good thing, according to new studies. Not surprising, as the article explains, due to the increased opportunities for errors and accidents, not to mention the added stress (which impedes healing) of being in the ICU.
And, the long-standing tradition of giving steroids to head injury patients (thinking that they would help reduce swelling) has shown to be harmful, rather than helpful. This does make some sense, in that healing from head injuries involves a natural boost in estrogen levels. Estrogen being a steroid itself, and interacting strongly with/regulating other steroids (including testosterone, cortisol, etc). So, this is a pretty pickle, I guess!
And, the long-standing tradition of giving steroids to head injury patients (thinking that they would help reduce swelling) has shown to be harmful, rather than helpful. This does make some sense, in that healing from head injuries involves a natural boost in estrogen levels. Estrogen being a steroid itself, and interacting strongly with/regulating other steroids (including testosterone, cortisol, etc). So, this is a pretty pickle, I guess!
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