Thursday, March 15, 2007

Fish Oil - That's Right, Fish Oil


Four FDA Approved Pharmaceutical Grade Omacor vs. Twelve OTC Fish Oil Capsules
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Yes this post is about fish oil. Fish oil contains high concentrations of Omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 has been clinically approved for use in reducing triglycerides, and in increasing high density lipoprotein levels in the blood. Eating a diet high in Omega 3 has been linked to reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

The recommended way to increase Omega 3 consumption is by including fish, and whole grains in your diet. The FDA recommends that individuals with no history of heart disease consume at least one gram of Omega 3 per day. Most Americans fail to reach this healthy Omega 3 consumption level.

For individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease increasing Omega 3 consumption becomes an important matter, and under a doctor's guidance consumption of higher levels of Omega 3 could prevent a heart attack.

The recommended dosage for individuals with cardiovascular disease is between two to four grams of Omega 3 per day. Diet alone may allow an individual to reach the one gram per day consumption goal, but to reach four grams involves the use of Omega 3 dietary supplements.

Omega 3 supplements come in several forms, and the most popular is fish oil capsules. Most standard fish oil capsules contain between one fourth, and one third of a gram of Omega 3. By taking three to four fish oil capsules per day an individual can reach the daily recommended consumption of one gram. However for individuals trying to reduce their triglyceride levels, or who are trying to increase their HDL levels consumption of twelve to sixteen fish oil capsules per day is necessary. This can be problem. Some people have problems taking so many large fish oil capsules even when they know it could save their life. Other people have stomach upset, or don't like the occasional "fishy burp" from taking so many fish oil capsules.

From MedPages on Increasing HDL with Omega 3

Fish oils (omega-3 fatty acids). Dietary modification to increase the consumption of cold-water fish (eg, salmon) rich in polyunsaturated fats may help to raise HDL-C. Capsules containing omega-3 fatty acids (1.48 g of docosahexaenoic acid + 1.88 g of eicosapentaenoic acid) have been formulated and are commercially available in some parts of the world (as Omacor). In a recent small study in patients with familial combined hyperlipidemia, treatment with this formulation for 8 weeks increased HDL-C by 8%, particularly the more buoyant HDL2 subfraction. Levels of the antioxidant HDL-associated enzyme paraoxonase were also increased by 10%.[37]

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Decreasing Triglycerides with Omega 3
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Clinical Results of FDA Approved Omacor
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Except for slightly increasing LDL levels in some individuals which take Omacor the dramatic reduction in Triglycerides, the overall cholesterol reduction, and the increase in HDL, suggest that consumption of Omega 3 has a positive effect on blood lipid values.


Not All Insurance Companies Include Omacor in their formularies
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It would be nice if my insurance included Omacor in their formulary, but they don't.

Look at what Walgreen's charges for Omacor

A (one month supply) bottle with 120 one gram capsules is $165.99!

To cut my triglycerides in half using Omacor I'd need to take four capsules a day which means I'd be spending around $180 per month for that one product alone.

Omacor has been used in Europe for a decade, and is the only clinically tested, and FDA approved omega 3 product available. You can't buy it without a prescription.

There are other Omega 3 products available, including some that are very pure, and highly concentrated like Omacor which can be purchased over the counter. There are also products which are more affordable, but less concentrated like those in the photo above.
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Why Take Omacor or Fish Oil in the age of Statins?

According to the American Cardiology Association the goal of reducing bad cholesterol (Low Density Lipoprotein) can be achieved through the use of Statins (e.g., Lipitor), however reducing bad cholesterol simply isn't enough to stop cardiovascular disease.

Despite the war on bad cholesterol over the last twenty years people are still dying of heart attacks - including those who take statins!

The first step is to reduce bad cholesterol, but good cholesterol (High Density Lipoprotein) levels need to be increased as well if heart attacks are to be prevented.

Good cholesterol is actually bad cholesterol which has been biochemically stripped away from the artery walls and is being carried out of the blood stream to the liver. The higher a person's good cholesterol level the cleaner their arteries.

Increasing HDLs is the only known means of reversing cardiovascular disease!

Taking Niacin, or Fish Oil (please consult your physician like I did prior to using either product) along with your Statin will actually reverse atherosclerosis.

Check this link which describes reduction in mortality due to use of Niacin, and Omega 3!

Wednesday, March 14, 2007

Born In A Garage - He's Now Royalty


Koshi Kat In A Kat Kollar

Since Koshi's surgery he's had to wear a collar to prevent him from getting at his sutures.

It looks like a cape!

He has to wear this collar for two weeks, and it's been driving him crazy since he can hardly groom himself. Cats are obsessed with keeping clean, so we've been having to use special sani wipes designed for cats just to keep him clean.

As long as no infection sets in I feel Koshi's recovery will be a big success. Koshi's on antibiotics so hopefully that will prevent any infections.

Patton - God I Love It So


George Patton The Movie
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"All very successful commanders are prima donnas and must be so treated". - George Patton -
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I can't help myself. When Patton the movie is broadcast I must watch. My wife thinks I'm insane, but the fact is there are certain movies which I find impossible to turn off. Patton is one of those movies.

I don't know how many times I've watched Patton, probably dozens. Each time it seems better. Now that is wild isn't it? George C. Scott really commanded the role didn't he?

I'd probably re-do the battle scenes with some digital effects, but that's all I'd change about the movie. The story, the acting, and everything else stands the test of decades. It's still a remarkable movie.
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All Real Americans Love The Sting Of Battle
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"If we take the generally accepted definition of bravery as a quality which knows no fear, I have never seen a brave man. All men are frightened. The more intelligent they are, the more they are frightened". -George Patton-
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How Accurate is Patton the movie?
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Tuesday, March 13, 2007

Ave Maria


Virgin Mary & Baby Jesus

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Hail Mary, full of grace,
the Lord is with Thee.
Blessed art Thou among women
And Blessed is the fruit of Thy womb, Jesus.

Holy Mary, Mother of God
Pray for us sinners now
and at the hour of our death.
Amen.
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Thank You

Job Conger Is Incredible!

Has anyone visited Job Conger's Honey and Quinine lately?

He's really rolling on his blog lately. He had a rocky start, but he's moving at such an incredible pace lately. I truly believe he is Springfield, Illinois' most prolific diarist.

Somehow I believe he has come to this time via a time traveling device of his own invention, and that he is from the late 1800's - possibly a friend of Hugo, or Bellamy.

One might not always be interested in a particular essay, but Job writes so much on some many topics that there's something there for everyone.

And get this, it's free!

Monday, March 12, 2007

WICS 20 - My Love Was Pure


If I Could Only Touch You
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Keep Your Hands Off Her - She's Mine!
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He's Just Using You - You Know That Don't You!
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It may look like I'm stalking the WICS 20 video camera, but it's just a coincidence, really it is! Sure she's beautiful, and I find myself drawn to her, but I know it would never work. She's high tech, and meant for the lime light, while I am destined to lurk in the shadows.
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The photographs above were taken at the Jerome, Illinois Tornado Survivors Party. The party was held March 11th, 2006. It was held Sunday at the Jerome Community Center. There were hundreds of Jeromites in attendance. Today, March 12th marks one year since two F2 tornadoes visited our fair village. We were exceptionally lucky. If the tornadoes were just a bit stronger we would have lost some lives, and I doubt there would be much left of the village.

Have You Ever Felt Like This?


Mad Cat With Machine Gun


O.K., this is making the rounds at work, and so I just had to post it on my blog.

Kind of cute.

The email included the question, "Have you ever felt like this?"
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Ha!

Sunday, March 11, 2007

FLUTD Related Veterinarian Bill - Post Surgey

Male Cat Urinary Blockage Treatment
Due to Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder
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. Emergency Clinic - Evening Day III & Morning Day IV
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$ 83.60 .......... Inpatient Care 14 Hours
$ 21.65 .......... Inpatient Care Initial Set Up
$ 12.05 .......... Meds Admin. in Hospital/Day
$ 17.95 .......... Inpatient Care 3 Hours
..
=======================================================
$135.25 .......... Total For March 10th, 2007 (Animal Hospital)
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This was for post surgical care at the Animal Hospital.
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..

More Bills To Go

If untreated FLUTD is fatal in male cats between 24 and 36 hours. Essentially you have three choices pay up front to catheterize the cat with no assurance that you won't end up needing to catheterize again, euthanasias the cat, or take the cat home to die a painful death.

If you don't have the money or the credit your cat dies. If you have the money, and the credit veterinarians can pretty much charge whatever they want. If you stop paying at any point your cat dies - it's that simple.

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Other Billing Pages For Same FLUTD Incidence

$ 675.10 ..... Page One
$ 133.25 ..... Page Two
$ 136.70 ..... Page Three
$ 779.23 ..... Page Four
$ 135.25 ..... Page Five
$1859.53 ..... Grand Total (Not Including $1500 For Same Cat & Problem 11/2006)
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Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder is a real money maker for Veterinarians. It's a life or death condition for male cats. Companies which produce popular brands of cat food still include too much phosphorus, and magnesium in their formulas.
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Despite switching to a prescription only cat food our cat's urethra was so badly scarred from being catheterized twice in November of 2006 that he still ended up being blocked again by March of 2007, and needed surgery to prevent further episodes of FLUTD by having his penis amputated.

FLUTD Related Veterinarian Bill - Surgey Day III

Male Cat Urinary Blockage Treatment
Due to Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder
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..... Second Veterinary Clinic - Surgery - Day III
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$ 00.00 .......... Buprenex Injectable
$ 26.13 .......... Clavamox Drops 15 ML (Bottle)
$ 24.90 .......... Pain Meds, Pre/Post Surg. Feline
$152.15 .......... Anes. Sevoflo (inhalant)
$458.35 .......... Perineal Urethrostomy
$ 30.40 .......... Injection SQ/IM
$ 46.30 .......... Fluids Intravenous
$ 24.75 .......... IV Fluid Therapy (Infusion Set)
$ 41.00 .......... Medical Hospitalization
$ 00.00 .......... Recheck With Surgeon (two weeks later)
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=======================================================
$779.23 .......... Total For March 9th, 2007 (Second Vet)
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This bill is for the actual surgery to remove our cat's penis. Crystals which form in the bladder of cats can block the elimination of urine which causes a life or death condition for male cats. After three bouts with FLUTD it was necessary to remove our cat's penis in order to save his life.
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This type of surgery like any surgery involved risk, but when successful it all but eliminates future threats to our cat's life due to FLUTD. We took our cat to a third service provider as the most experienced veterinarian in the area who performs this type of surgery practices in a nearby community.
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More Bills To Go

If untreated FLUTD is fatal in male cats between 24 and 36 hours. Essentially you have three choices pay up front to catheterize the cat with no assurance that you won't end up needing to catheterize again, euthanasias the cat, or take the cat home to die a painful death.

If you don't have the money or the credit your cat dies. If you have the money, and the credit veterinarians can pretty much charge whatever they want. If you stop paying at any point your cat dies - it's that simple.

.
Other Billing Pages For Same FLUTD Incidence

$ 675.10 ..... Page One
$ 133.25 ..... Page Two
$ 136.70 ..... Page Three
$ 779.23 ..... Page Four
$ 135.25 ..... Page Five
$1859.53 ..... Grand Total (Not Including $1500 For Same Cat & Problem 11/2006)
.
.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder is a real money maker for Veterinarians. It's a life or death condition for male cats. Companies which produce popular brands of cat food still include too much phosphorus, and magnesium in their formulas.
.
Despite switching to a prescription only cat food our cat's urethra was so badly scarred from being catheterized twice in November of 2006 that he still ended up being blocked again by March of 2007, and needed surgery to prevent further episodes of FLUTD by having his penis amputated.

FLUTD Related Veterinarian Bill - Evening II

Male Cat Urinary Blockage Treatment
Due to Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder
.
.
..... Emergency Clinic - Evening Day II
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$ 31.45 .......... Fluids Intravenous Add'l Liter
$ 83.60 .......... Inpatient Care (14 Hours)
$ 21.65 .......... Inpatient Care Initial Set Up
..
=======================================================
$136.70 .......... Total For March 8-9th, 2007 (Animal Hospital)
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That evening we took our cat back to the Animal Hospital after the Veterinary Clinic closed. The hospital staff was aware he was due for Surgery, and was pumping him full of fluids to get him ready.
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..

More Bills To Go

If untreated FLUTD is fatal in male cats between 24 and 36 hours. Essentially you have three choices pay up front to catheterize the cat with no assurance that you won't end up needing to catheterize again, euthanasias the cat, or take the cat home to die a painful death.

If you don't have the money or the credit your cat dies. If you have the money, and the credit veterinarians can pretty much charge whatever they want. If you stop paying at any point your cat dies - it's that simple.

.
Other Billing Pages For Same FLUTD Incidence

$ 675.10 ..... Page One
$ 133.25 ..... Page Two
$ 136.70 ..... Page Three
$ 779.23 ..... Page Four
$ 135.25 ..... Page Five
$1859.53 ..... Grand Total (Not Including $1500 For Same Cat & Problem 11/2006)
.
.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder is a real money maker for Veterinarians. It's a life or death condition for male cats. Companies which produce popular brands of cat food still include too much phosphorus, and magnesium in their formulas.
.
Despite switching to a prescription only cat food our cat's urethra was so badly scarred from being catheterized twice in November of 2006 that he still ended up being blocked again by March of 2007, and needed surgery to prevent further episodes of FLUTD by having his penis amputated.

FLUTD Related Veterinarian Bill - Day II

Male Cat Urinary Blockage Treatment
Due to Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder
.
.
..... Veterinary Clinic - Morning & Afternoon Day II
.
$ 18.00 .......... Deworming
$ 49.15 .......... Examination
$ 30.40 .......... Injections Sq/IM
$ 35.70 .......... Fluids Subcutaneous
..
=======================================================
$133.25 .......... Total For March 8th, 2007 (Vet. Primary)
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That morning we picked up our cat at the Animal Hospital and took him to the Veterinary Clinic. This is the bill for the clinic from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
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..

More Bills To Go

If untreated FLUTD is fatal in male cats between 24 and 36 hours. Essentially you have three choices pay up front to catheterize the cat with no assurance that you won't end up needing to catheterize again, euthanasias the cat, or take the cat home to die a painful death.

If you don't have the money or the credit your cat dies. If you have the money, and the credit veterinarians can pretty much charge whatever they want. If you stop paying at any point your cat dies - it's that simple.

.
Other Billing Pages For Same FLUTD Incidence

$ 675.10 ..... Page One
$ 133.25 ..... Page Two
$ 136.70 ..... Page Three
$ 779.23 ..... Page Four
$ 135.25 ..... Page Five
$1859.53 ..... Grand Total (Not Including $1500 For Same Cat & Problem 11/2006)
.
.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder is a real money maker for Veterinarians. It's a life or death condition for male cats. Companies which produce popular brands of cat food still include too much phosphorus, and magnesium in their formulas.
.
Despite switching to a prescription only cat food our cat's urethra was so badly scarred from being catheterized twice in November of 2006 that he still ended up being blocked again by March of 2007, and needed surgery to prevent further episodes of FLUTD by having his penis amputated.

FLUTD Related Veterinarian Bill - Night One

Male Cat Urinary Blockage Treatment
Due to Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder
.
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..... Emergency Clinic - First Night - Catheterization
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$ 55.45 .......... Catheterization-Urinary
$ 82.00 .......... Emergency Room and Exam
$ 84.85 .......... Injections (3)
$ 59.70 .......... Inpatient Care (10 hours)
$ 21.65 .......... Inpatient Care Initial Set Up
$ 49.60 .......... IV Fluid Therapy (Catheterization)
$ 51.15 .......... IV Fluid Therapy (Fluids 1st Liter)
$ 24.75 .......... IV Fluid Therapy (Infusion Set)
$ 59.85 .......... Sedation
$ 39.70 .......... Urinalysis W/Sedimentation
$ 26.85 .......... Vet Test 1st Slide
$ 34.00 .......... Vet Test Each Additional Slide (2)
$ 85.55 .......... Radiograph 1 View Only
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=======================================================
$675.10 .......... Total For March 7th, 2007 (Animal Hospital)
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This bill is for the initial visit and overnight stay at the Animal Hospital - which is the only place to take a cat after your Veterinarian Clinic is closed for the evening.
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..

..
More Bills To Go

If untreated FLUTD is fatal in male cats between 24 and 36 hours. Essentially you have three choices pay up front to catheterize the cat with no assurance that you won't end up needing to catheterize again, euthanasias the cat, or take the cat home to die a painful death.

If you don't have the money or the credit your cat dies. If you have the money, and the credit veterinarians can pretty much charge whatever they want. If you stop paying at any point your cat dies - it's that simple.

.
Other Billing Pages For Same FLUTD Incidence

$ 675.10 ..... Page One
$ 133.25 ..... Page Two
$ 136.70 ..... Page Three
$ 779.23 ..... Page Four
$ 135.25 ..... Page Five
$1859.53 ..... Grand Total (Not Including $1500 For Same Cat & Problem 11/2006)
.
.
Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disorder is a real money maker for Veterinarians. It's a life or death condition for male cats. Companies which produce popular brands of cat food still include too much phosphorus, and magnesium in their formulas.
.
Despite switching to a prescription only cat food our cat's urethra was so badly scarred from being catheterized twice in November of 2006 that he still ended up being blocked again by March of 2007, and needed surgery to prevent further episodes of FLUTD by having his penis amputated.
.
.
Resources

Photos and Description of the catheterization of a cat's penis
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