Health & Wellbeing

By Dr. Smita Patel

Proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, are a class of drugs that treat acid reflux and peptic ulcers. The three most commonly prescribed PPIs are omeprazole, pantoprazole and esomeprazole. In recent years, some studies reported that PPIs increase risk for dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. We hear patients asking questions about this issue, so I’d like to clarify what we currently know about this risk.

One in five women will get Alzheimer’s disease in their lifetime. For men, it’s one in ten. Understanding this difference in gender and Alzheimer’s disease is the subject of much research and debate. Some theories include the loss of protective estrogen after menopause and the simple fact that women, in general, live longer lives than men. (Age is the primary risk factor for Alzheimer’s.)

Springfield, Ill. – AARP Illinois issued the following statement Friday thanking the state House of Representatives for voting 65-38 for HB 4900, a proposal to require generic drug companies to justify drastic increases in price to the state Attorney General.

Guest author Emmaline Rasmussen, MS, RD, E-RYT, is a nutrition specialist and clinical research dietitian at NorthShore University HealthSystem.

By Dr. Smita Patel, NorthShore Center for Brain Health

By Susannah Spiess, MD

The rapid rise in technology has provided us with modern discoveries, rekindled connections and new opportunities to collaborate and create. But has our country’s increased technology use also contributed to a rise in neck and back injuries? Here are some tips to alleviate bone and joint stresses at home and in the office.

By Dr. Smita Patel

It’s that time of year when exercise is top of everyone’s mind. New Year’s health resolutions continue to swirl, a new fitness trend catches on every day, and the 2018 Winter Olympic Games are in full swing. The benefits of regular fitness are widely known, but less discussed are the dangers of excessive exercise