After an organ transplant, patients need to adjust to a lot of new routines. Medications need to be taken regularly, often at very specific times, to avoid rejection. Eating well and getting enough sleep and exercise becomes essential. Adhering to these changes isn’t always easy, but it’s crucial for maintaining proper health after transplant.
But in the transplant community, thousands of teenagers are at risk of compromising their transplanted organ, because they often have a harder time adhering to these new routines than adults. Some young patients say it’s hard to remember when to take their so many medications, especially when they’re not feeling sick. Others complain that their parents’ constant harping to follow all their care team’s advice makes them want to do the exact opposite.
No matter the reason, one thing is clear: adolescence is hard for many young people; adding the stress of a chronic illness and strict medication routine can make it even harder. …
H1N1 and seasonal influenza beware – new heroes have arrived, ready to defend the population and fight a viral battle, via Facebook, in the form of ‘Flu Fighters!’
Developed by researchers at Children’s Hospital Boston, in collaboration with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), a new Facebook application called “I’m a Flu Fighter!” gives you the opportunity to mobilize and take action against the threat of influenza – by telling your friends that you got the H1N1/seasonal flu vaccine and encouraging them to do the same. Launching as part of National Influenza Vaccination Week, the app also provides information on influenza – including a flu vaccine locator – courtesy of HHS’s Flu.gov.