Medications like Ozempic and Mounjaro, also known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, have changed the way we treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. They have become some of the most commonly prescribed and taken medications in the United States. Along with this surge in popularity comes more attention. Research into how they affect the heart and… Continue reading Do GLP-1 Medications Increase Pain Sensitivity?
Category: Conditions
Living with a health condition? On the PatientsLikeMe blog, find helpful health information and patient stories about being diagnosed, trying different treatments, and living day-to-day with a chronic condition.
Is Walking Good for Kidney Disease? Benefits and Precautions
Walking is one of the most accessible and beneficial exercises for people with kidney disease. It’s a low-impact activity that can improve your overall health, strengthen your heart, support kidney function, and provides community. Skip to: Why is Walking Beneficial for Kidney Disease? Who knew that something as simple as walking would have so many… Continue reading Is Walking Good for Kidney Disease? Benefits and Precautions
Natural Disaster Preparedness: Critical Steps for Managing Medical Needs During and After Weather Events
The recent devastation created by the Southern California wildfires highlights the importance of planning ahead (as much as possible) for managing your medical needs in the wake of a crisis. So, we’ve gathered some expert preparation tips and ideas for what to keep in an emergency supply kit. Creating Your Emergency Medical Plan The Centers… Continue reading Natural Disaster Preparedness: Critical Steps for Managing Medical Needs During and After Weather Events
Diabetes and GLP-1: What You Need to Know About Blood Sugar Control
Managing type 2 diabetes means a combination of lifestyle changes and medication to keep blood sugar levels in check! One medication that is getting a lot of attention lately is GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs). These medications work differently from other treatments, offering unique benefits for people with type 2 diabetes. While many people have… Continue reading Diabetes and GLP-1: What You Need to Know About Blood Sugar Control
A Guide to Preemptive Estate Planning for Chronic Kidney Disease and Beyond
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) can be an unpredictable journey, one that involves medical decisions, financial considerations, and difficult conversations about the future. Preemptive estate planning offers a way to address these challenges before they become urgent. This guide outlines the essential elements of estate planning, how it differs for chronic illness patients, and how to… Continue reading A Guide to Preemptive Estate Planning for Chronic Kidney Disease and Beyond
Understanding Your Numbers: A1C Changes with Kidney Disease
Managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and diabetes together can be challenging, but tracking key health indicators can help make it easier. One of the most important tools for monitoring diabetes is the A1C test, which gives a snapshot of your average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. While it’s commonly used… Continue reading Understanding Your Numbers: A1C Changes with Kidney Disease
How to Spot a Stroke
Medically Reviewed and Written By: Kathleen O’Shea Northrup, MD Stroke is the number one cause of adult disability in the United States and the 5th leading cause of death. Because it affects the brain, sometimes people who are having a stroke don’t even realize that something is wrong. This makes it even more important to… Continue reading How to Spot a Stroke
Lp(a): Who Should Be Tested?
Medically Reviewed and Written By: Kathleen O’Shea Northrup, MD Lp(a) – pronounced L-p-little-a- is a type of lipoprotein that is associated with much higher risks of acute coronary and vascular disease. It is estimated that 20-30% of the population has an elevated level. Lp(a) can not only cause narrowing of the arteries but can also increase… Continue reading Lp(a): Who Should Be Tested?
Cholesterol 101: What is LP(a)?
Medically Reviewed and Written By: Kathleen O’Shea Northrup, MD Lowering your cholesterol is a well-known way to decrease your risk of heart attack or stroke. You’ve likely heard of “good” cholesterol (HDL) and “bad” cholesterol (LDL), but what about Lipoprotein(a)? Lp(a), as it is more commonly known, has been the subject of increasing research in recent… Continue reading Cholesterol 101: What is LP(a)?
Making Tacos CKD-Friendly
By: Kellsey Reed, RDN, LDN, PatientsLikeMe Contributor Tacos can be a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner because they are so versatile and delicious. But it can be hard to know how to make tacos more kidney-friendly when you have chronic kidney disease. Let’s break it down together so that you can enjoy your… Continue reading Making Tacos CKD-Friendly