Posted by Chris A. on May 12, 2002, at 1:32:55
In reply to Allergic med reactions 4th leading killer, posted by Phil on May 11, 2002, at 20:48:31
Do these people have any proof for saying that "allergic med reactions are the 4th leading killer? Is that an epidemiologically sound statement? To have an allergic reaction is to have a histamine response. That is different from having drug interactions, intolerances, side effects or over doses. Yes, I took care of a patient 25 years ago with SJS, and will never forget it. The cause was unknown. It is awful, but neither do I condone scare mongering that gets bipolar patients off of our meds, since give or take 20% of us end up dead from suicide when untreated. I take Lamictal and have had minor rashes that we have "cautiously watched." There is always going to be the risk vs. benefit issue. I'm not sure I'd be alive if it weren't for Lamictal. The benefits have far out weighed the risks. I suppose if I had SJS I wouldn't be saying that. I'm not sure what the fourth leading cause of death is. It depends on the age group you're referring to. In the US the first three causes of death are: 1)Coronary heart disease, 2)Cancers, including all types, and 3) CVA(stroke). My hubby would be able to tell us what the fourth is, but he's asleep. Sorry for ranting, but the subject line struck a cord in me.
Chris A.
poster:Chris A.
thread:106049
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20020510/msgs/106074.html