Ruling out the “-itises”

In medicine, inflammation of any body part is called an “-itis.”  Meningitis (inflammation the spinal area), tendonitis (inflammation of the tendons) or appendicitis (inflammation/infection of the appendix) are some examples.  The eye can have...

Settling In To Feeling Lousy

Many of you know that I experienced sudden autoimmune-related hearing loss in my left ear in June. This required high-dose prednisone, with the initial promise of a rapid taper. The side effects were frustrating, but tolerable. Yet, unfortunately, I will be on these...

A Salute to my Hot-Natured Friends

As a petite, skinny woman, I am usually the first to get cold in any crowd.  When others moan the onset of hot weather, I am usually smiling.  During clinic days I am known to wear 4 layers, with my camisole, undershirt, sweater, and white coat,...