Irish journal of medical science
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Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by chronic widespread pain accompanied by fatigue, disrupted sleep quality, cognitive impairments, subjective soft tissue swelling, and somatic symptoms. There are conflicting results in the literature regarding the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in fibromyalgia patients and the reduction of symptoms after supplementation. ⋯ We determined that vitamin D deficiency is significantly more prevalent in patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Vitamin D supplementation was observed to have a positive effect on quality of life and reduction of pain.
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Professor Davis Coakley (1946-2022) was an outstanding physician, historian, and leader of reform in medical services and education. This inaugural Davis Coakley Memorial Lecture, delivered in The Edward Worth Library at Dr Steevens' Hospital, Dublin, Ireland, on 28 September 2023, focuses on 'Medicine in History & History in Medicine'. It explores the position of the physician-historian in medical historiography, discusses Coakley's extensive historical work (especially his many books about the history of medicine), and concludes with comments about one of Coakley's great interests: the work of Sir William Wilde (1815-1876). ⋯ Sir William's comments about patterns of epidemics are especially arresting and relevant today in the immediate wake of COVID-19. Coakley's interest in Sir William echoed Coakley's broader commitment to medical care, progressive education, and genuine scholarship that shed light on suffering, illness, healing, and recovery. The fields of both medicine and history are greatly enriched by Coakley's life and work.
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Smoking continues to cause harm on a huge scale in Ireland. Doctors can help this harm through providing safe, effective and clinically sound stop smoking care, but the needs of Irish doctors in this area are largely uncharted. ⋯ While there is a strong reservoir support and areas of good reported practice in stop smoking care among doctors in Ireland, the development of their knowledge and skills in arranging effective care should be supported if doctors are to fulfil their huge potential role in tackling the harm caused by smoking.
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The aim of this study is to examine the effects of Ramadan fasting on melatonin, cortisol, and serotonin levels. ⋯ It has been determined that Ramadan fasting increases the serotonin level of individuals but does not change the levels of melatonin and cortisol. It was determined that the level of happiness of individuals increased after Ramadan fasting. Longitudinal studies on the effects of Ramadan fasting are recommended.
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Aural microsuction can be associated with delayed syncopal and vertiginous events, which can lead to serious adverse patient safety incidents. ⋯ Whilst aural microsuction is universally accepted to be a low-risk procedure, subsequent serious morbidity can occur. Implementation and awareness of local safety policies are imperative to avoid post-procedure injury.