Dr. Susan Sharma: This is insider medicine in 60 from Atlanta - The CDC is warning parents to be on the alert for their children playing the "choking game", which has resulted in numerous deaths in the last decade. In the game, children tie something around their neck to decrease blood supply to the brain, which may result in a temporary ""high"". The game has caused 82 deaths over a 12 year period and as many as 20% of teens admitted to playing the game. Signs that your child is playing the game include, marks on the neck, belts and neckties tied to doorknobs and new onset of headaches and bloodshot eyes.
From the UK - Using illegally-obtained skin-lightening creams that contain steroids can result in the potentially lethal Cushing's disease. A woman who gained over 30 pounds, and developed classic ""moon-like face, easy bruisability and muscle weakness"", admitted to using skin-lightening cream.
And finally, from Denmark - Using HEPA filters to improve air quality may be healthy for the heart. In a study of 21 healthy, non-smoking volunteers, use of a HEPA filter was shown to improve microvascular function by 8% in healthy individuals. The study suggests that reduction of particle exposure by filtration may be a feasible way of reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.
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