KUSA — There’s a lot of information that goes around on the internet about health issues.
Here’s Dr. Comilla Sasson’s take on some health claims that she’s seen this week.
Do x-rays and CT scams cause cancer?
X-rays have the lowest amount of radiation exposure, however, over the course of a lifetime, the risk is cumulative and can expose patients to risks for cancer. Radiation exposure from CT scans varies by the location of the study and age of the person getting the test done.
One CT scan is equal to about 200 x-rays or seven years of exposure from natural sources in the environment. This level of radiation exposure over time, especially for CT scans, can increase a person's chance of getting cancer.
Although the risk is still small, it is something to consider, especially as CT scan and x-ray use is increasing nationally. And, if patients are going to different hospitals, it can be difficult track how much radiation exposure they are getting.
Make sure you speak with your physician about the risks and benefits of getting a CT scan or X-ray before you let them do the test. Let the provider know how many studies you have had, the type of study, and the time period you have had them done in.
Vaping is "better" for you than smoking cigarettes? FICTION
There is renewed focus on vaping as more and more children and adults are starting to vape as an alternative to smoking.
The electronic nicotine delivery systems works by burning a liquid form of tobacco in a pod which is heated over coils to deliver the vape smoke. As a byproduct, people will inhale formaldehyde and diacetyl. These are chemicals that are known to cause cancer.
There is also the addiction potential for nicotine. Each vaping pod is equal to a full pack of cigarettes. With fruity, fun flavors, people do not realize just how much nicotine they are consuming, and are becoming addicted to vaping very quickly.
Marijuana has been used to help people with nausea and vomiting, but it can also can severe vomiting? FACT
Cannaboid hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) due to marijuana use is something we have started to see more and more in our emergency departments, especially with the legalization of medical marijuana.
Patients who are using marijuana will come in with severe vomiting and abdominal pain, stating that the only thing which helps them feel better to take hot showers, sometimes taking 10 to 20 showers a day.
They may also have been taking marijuana for years and suddenly develop this side effect from the drug. Although medical marijuana is often used for patients who are have issues with extreme nausea and vomiting, like patients with cancer undergoing chemotherapy, we are also starting to see the effects of heavy marijuana use as well.
A new study estimates 2.7 million people in the U.S. may have CHS due to marijuana. The treatment is simple: stop the marijuana use. Something to consider for people who may be currently using marijuana and experiencing severe nausea and vomiting.
