Opioid epidemic hitting seniors hard — and more health headlines

Medical Watch Digest for Oct 13

Overdose Deaths in people 65 and Older

The opioid epidemic is hitting seniors hard.

Fentanyl stimulants are driving a sharp increase in senior overdose deaths.

Drug overdose deaths involving fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamines surged 9000% among seniors in the past decade.

Rates are now similar to younger adults according to research presenting at the American Society of Anesthesiologists meeting.

Fentanyl mixed with methamphetamines has led to more senior deaths than alcohol, Xanax or valium.

 Experts urge physicians to discuss dangerous drug use with their senior patients.

C-Section and Pain, Sleep Concerns

When women deliver by cesarean section, they suffer greater pain and sleep difficulties than those who have a vaginal delivery.

According to Stanford University researchers, pain and discomfort not only impacts sleep, it also interferes with daily living and hinders post-partum recovery.

New mothers who had a c-section experienced disrupted sleep that led to sleep disorders.

And that hampers both physical and mental health.

 After a c-section, women suffered from thinking and memory problems and disrupted bonding with their babies.

Study: People with ADHA are more creative

People with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder can celebrate a special gift.
ADHD appears to enhance creativity.

The European College of Neuro Psycho Pharmacology reports a greater tendency to let the mind wander opens the door to better imagination.

Rapidly shifting attention allows people to open their mind to new vision.

Doctors say with further study they hope to harness the benefits to drive creative outputs.