COVID-19 Clinical Research Archives - AZ Clinical Trials

Safer at Home: Treating COVID-19

March 27, 2021 No Comments

thoughAfter a diagnosis of COVID-19, most patients with mild cases return home to quarantine and begin recovery. The thought may sound daunting, but don’t worry. With the proper precautions and knowing the warning signs, you do it. When treating mild cases of COVID-19, you are safer at home. Caring for Yourself, Caring for Others Whether you are caring for yourself or a loved one, there are a few things to keep in mind when recovering at home. Make sure to follow all safety protocols because the safety of the patient and caregiver is equally important. Recovery Area The patient should have a separate room with private bathroom access, if possible. If not, a sectioned area in a room will work. The bathroom would need to be sanitized after each use as well. Protect Yourself and Others A person must be isolated in quarantine for up to 10 days after the first symptoms began and 24 hours after being fever-free. Depending on the person recovering, the doctor may require a longer time. Use a face mask Wash your hands often Cough into a tissue that you throw away immediately Clean frequently touched surfaces often Don’t share personal items, like dishes, towels, or bedding. Wash all items thoroughly. Managing Symptoms Take Tylenol to help reduce fevers Stay hydrated by drinking water or juice Resting will give your body the energy it needs to fight off the virus Warning Signs Call 911 immediately if you are having a hard time waking the patient up or they are showing any of the other warning signs: Breathing trouble Chest pain or pressure that is not alleviated New confusion Bluish color of lips or face Inability to stay awake COVID-19 Positive Adults Research Clinical research studies help develop safe and effective ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent conditions like COVID-19. Research studies are why we have vaccines and other therapies available to help patients beat the virus. Without volunteers participating in research studies, these advancements wouldn’t be possible. Though we’ve come a long way, the battle is far from over. A diagnosis of COVID-19 can often come with an overwhelming sense of helplessness. But as research continues, everyone willing and able can help in the fight to end COVIID-19. If you have a positive diagnosis of COVID-19 within the last 96 hours, research studies here at Arizona Clinical Trials may be an option. Contact us at 480-360-4000 to learn more, or visit our website. References: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/treating-covid-19-at-home/art-20483273 https://www.umms.org/coronavirus/what-to-know/treat-covid-at-home

Pandemic Fatigue

March 9, 2021 No Comments

We get it. Everyone is tired of COVID-19. After a year of restrictions and safety measures, the desire to see the end grows more each day. Pandemic fatigue is tightening its grip on the world as more and more people begin to break from the confines meant to protect them. What is it, you ask? Keep reading to find out and how you can manage it. What is It? When people are asked to make behavior changes over a long period, they can develop pandemic fatigue. The condition occurs because behavior changes are typically meant for the short term. When they extend longer, it becomes harder and harder to continue those changes. It is similar to starting a new diet or lifestyle change. These require daily efforts, and it isn’t easy to sustain after a while. During COVID-19, pandemic fatigue is more concerning because people are venturing outside safety precautions as compliance steadily drops. The reasons behind why people develop it take away the motivation to keep a person’s eye on the prize. Causes may be political, social, or due to diminishing expert trust. Ways to Manage It Anxiety and depression often accompany pandemic fatigue. If your mental health concerns you, talk with your doctor immediately. Self-care is vital in managing pandemic fatigue. Here are a few ways you can help yourself at home: Check-in with yourself and accept that fatigue, anxiety, and depression are understandable in these unprecedented times. Stop “doom-scrolling” and limit screen time. Manage stress by using breathing and meditation techniques. Carve out time to restore and replenish energy. Take a walk, enjoy a bath or other activities that are deliberately calming. Make movement a daily priority to stay active. Research Volunteers Give Back and Get Back Clinical research studies play a vital role in the advancement of medicine for conditions like COVID-19. They pave the way for improved treatment, detection, and prevention methods by evaluating the safety and effectiveness of new therapies. Research volunteers are the reason these advancements are possible. Giving back to others has been proven to restore confidence and combat depression and anxiety. To learn how you can get involved in enrolling studies here at Arizona Liver Health, call (480) 470-4000, or visit our website. References: https://www.uchealth.org/today/5-tips-for-handling-pandemic-fatigue/ https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-we-can-deal-with-pandemic-fatigue/ https://www.cnn.com/2021/01/13/health/pandemic-fatigue-vaccine-wellness/index.html

Falling in Love with Your Health

February 11, 2021 No Comments

Approximately 1 in 10 women of childbearing age experiences Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS is the leading cause of infertility, among the many other symptoms this condition creates. A growing body of evidence shows PCOS is linked to other health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, mental illness, and others. In the last few years, fatty liver has also been listed in connection with PCOS. More than ever, those diagnosed need to be vigilant about self-care and overall wellbeing. By falling in love with your health now, you can head off medical issues later. Why PCOS and Fatty Liver are Linked PCOS is the acronym for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and is an imbalance of the reproductive hormones. Higher than normal male hormone (androgens) and insulin levels are the top factors in developing PCOS. The imbalance causes issues in the ovaries that affect how the eggs develop and when they are released. Infertility, ovarian cysts, excess hair, weight gain, and acne are common signs. When you look at the connection of PCOS to other health conditions like diabetes, fatty liver, and heart disease, the answer is in the risk factors. Fatty liver is highly prevalent in women with PCOS due to the following factors: Being overweight High triglycerides Elevated LDL cholesterol level Excessive consumption of fat, sugar, and refined foods Lack of exercise The factors listed above can cause the unhealthy accumulation of fat cells in the liver. Though a healthy liver will contain some fat, too much fat can lead to fatty liver disease. Lifestyle changes must occur along with early testing and intervention to prevent the progression of NAFLD, NASH, liver cirrhosis, and failure. You ARE at Risk with PCOS If you have PCOS, talk with your doctor about regular screenings to check your liver’s health. In most cases, liver disease can be prevented or even reversed if caught early enough with healthier living. You can love your health by starting the changes now. Some examples include: Exercising at least 150 minutes a week at a moderate pace. Maintaining a healthy weight. Avoiding excess consumption of foods that are processed, high in sugar, and high in unhealthy fats. Instead, go for more vegetables, lean meats, rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and are liver-friendly. Avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol. Keep chronic conditions managed. The connection between fatty liver and PCOS is still relatively new. Clinical research studies continue to help us learn more about the relationships between the two conditions. The knowledge we gain allows us to design better ways to detect, prevent, and treat PCOS and fatty liver. Arizona Liver Health is seeking participants to join studies looking into potential new options for women with PCOS and Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD). To learn more, call (480) 470-4000, or visit our website. References: https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome https://www.verywellhealth.com/pcos-preventing-fatty-liver-disease-2616334

Keeping Healthy During Quarantine

January 25, 2021 No Comments

Keeping healthy during quarantine is easier said than done. Safety guidelines and closures can make it more challenging. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is how to adapt. Get back on track or start your healthy journey with some tips for the mind, body, and soul. Body and Mental Health Overall health is achieved by taking care of the body and the mind. Supplying your body with the right fuel and keeping active isn’t always easy during quarantine and social distancing guidelines. You can start with: Eat a well-balanced diet low in processed sugars, carbs, and saturated fats—stock up on nutritionally dense foods that boost the immune system. Cabbages, winter squash, lentils, and sweet potatoes are examples. 150 minutes of moderate activity are recommended during the week. If you are starting out, pick something you enjoy, so you will more likely stick with it. Have a dance party or make up a workout. Just make it FUN! Mental health should be on every wellness list. Helping manage it at home can involve several areas, but we have some tips to get you started: Go outside to get some fresh air at least once a day. Stay informed with the facts from trusted resources. At the same time, don’t watch the news all day. Have specific times to check for updates. Maintain contact with friends and loved ones. Volunteer. Giving back to others is proven to have many mental health benefits. If you have a mental illness, keep appointments with your doctor and seek help if symptoms worsen. Staying Healthy with Chronic Conditions If you have chronic conditions like liver disease, staying healthy is even more critical amid a pandemic. You should continue to follow all treatment plans recommended by your doctor. This includes continuing medications as directed, monitoring your diet, and keeping active. It may be tempting to skip appointments to limit COVID-19 exposure but don’t. Instead, see what virtual options and safety protocols your provider has in place. Having chronic conditions raise your chances of having severe symptoms if infected with COVID. It’s not worth the gamble. Liver Disease and COVID-19 Research Studies Clinical research studies help determine potential new therapies’ safety and effectiveness before they are made available to the public. Without the role of research studies and the volunteers who participate in them, improvements to how we diagnose, manage, and prevent medical conditions wouldn’t exist. In the fight to end COVID-19, every medication, PPE, medical device, and vaccine in use today is a direct result of the work scientists, researchers, studies, and volunteers accomplished. Arizona Liver Health is committed to continuing our part of the fight by offering COVID-19 studies in addition to our core liver trials. You can join us whether you’re interested in prevention, getting tested for FREE, or helping advance options for those infected. To find out more about all of our COVID-19 and liver-related studies, visit the current studies page on our website here. To speak with a member of our research team, please call (480) 360-4000. References: https://www.marylandpainandwellnesscenter.com/blog/tips-to-help-you-stay-physically-and-mentally-healthy-during-covid-19-self-quarantine https://www.who.int/campaigns/connecting-the-world-to-combat-coronavirus/healthyathome/healthyathome—mental-health?gclid=CjwKCAiAi_D_BRApEiwASslbJ-XxgFAy2fQz0CF5-XJT2KZVLqJ6r6GZg-MitlvYazOjm_27E9K0mxoCLvEQAvD_BwE

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New Year – New Diet – Same Liver

January 12, 2021 No Comments

Performing over 5,000 vital functions to sustain life and regeneration are some of the liver’s most remarkable features. It truly is an extraordinary organ, but it is not invincible. The celebrations of the holidays can add extra strain to your liver. If you have liver disease, these overindulgences can cause lasting effects. It’s the new year, but you have the same liver. While you are making your resolutions, consider a new diet to keep your liver healthy. Your Liver’s Depending on You The liver filters everything you eat and drink, and that is absorbed into your body. It can’t control what you put into it, but you can control how well it functions. Chronic alcohol consumption and foods high in saturated fats and processed sugars take a toll on the liver. These cause some of the most common liver conditions, such as alcohol and non-alcohol related fatty liver diseases. Each liver patient has individual diet needs, so talk with your doctor about what’s right for you. Here are some general tips everyone’s liver can benefit from: Foods good for the liver in addition to a balanced diet: Coffee– Lowers the risk of cirrhosis, or permanent liver damage, in people with chronic liver disease. Grapefruit– Grapefruit contain antioxidants that naturally protect the liver from injury. Blueberries and Cranberries– Consuming these fruits for 3–4 weeks has been shown to protect the liver from damage. Foods High in Fiber– Fiber helps your liver work at an optimal level. Drink Plenty of Water– Water helps your liver function better by keeping your body hydrated. Foods to avoid: Any foods high in saturated fats Those containing high levels of sugar and salt Stay clear of fried foods, including fast food restaurant meals Raw or undercooked shellfish should be avoided as well If you are allowed alcohol, limit to one drink per day The Silent Killer Liver disease is progressive and typically takes years to develop. Often, there are no noticeable signs of an issue until the later stages. Diabetes, alcoholism, and obesity are the top risk factors. If you’re at risk, schedule a FREE fibroscan to check your liver health with us today. Fibroscans are a quick, non-invasive, painless scan that can determine if you have nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) or other fatty liver diseases. If your results indicate an abnormal function, our staff will discuss enrolling you in one of our liver disease studies here at Arizona Liver Health. Clinical research studies and the volunteers who participate in them make advancements in liver patients’ healthcare possible. To learn how you can get involved, call us at (480) 470-4000, or visit our study listing on our website. References: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-foods-for-your-liver#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2 https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/health-wellness/nutrition/?gclid=CjwKCAiAoOz-BRBdEiwAyuvA69fghB4XiYIBdlbZL4zIf8PEl2b-ju8gvq3IdkqgcN7Kl6VEn4gf6hoCNO0QAvD_BwE

Volunteering: The Gift the Keeps on Giving

December 22, 2020 No Comments

One of the best things about the holiday season is that goodwill towards others takes it up a notch as people race to pay it forward. The desire to give back is a perfect segue into volunteering in a clinical research study. Here at Arizona Liver Health, our mission is to advance the care of those impacted by liver disease. Volunteering in research studies is the gift that keeps on giving. Here’s why. What is a Clinical Research Study? Research studies are the primary way to determine if a new drug, device, vaccine, or therapeutic approach is safe and effective in people. Each potential new option may provide a treatment path where none existed previously. They may also be the same as or more effective than other available options or they hope to offer a new way to detect or prevent a specific medical condition. After extensive laboratory testing, they move on to be analyzed in clinical research studies. Volunteers of all ages, ethnicities, and genders are necessary for these studies to see how these work in the human body. Those with the condition the study aims to treat and those generally in good health are needed. The FDA regulates and monitors studies over every research phase and must have their approval before becoming available to the public. How Can I Sign Up as a Volunteer? Each study has specific criteria that determine the ideal candidate for which the trial was designed. While you may not be the right candidate for one study, others may be a better fit. Once you apply, the medical team will then contact you and gather all pertinent information. Qualified candidates then move on to the informed consent process and so forth. Any that are not a good fit have the option of being alerted of future studies or looking into other options. Advancing Medicine and Beyond Advancing medicine is a way to give back that never runs out or expires. Qualified candidates may also gain access to new options not publicly available that may be as good as or better than what is available now. Our medical staff’s expert care ensures you are prioritizing your health while learning more about your condition. Oftentimes, reimbursements for time and travel may be available for those who qualify—making it a great way to earn some extra cash around the holidays. Volunteering in clinical research studies isn’t the right decision for everyone. We would love to answer any questions you may have for those wanting to know more about our studies here at Arizona Liver Health. To view a listing of current studies, a brief overview of each is available on our website’s study page. Or, give us a call today at (480) 470-4000. References: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5339376/ https://www.antidote.me/blog/why-volunteer-for-research-studies

A Complication of Liver Disease: Cirrhosis

December 15, 2020 No Comments

Cirrhosis is the replacement of healthy liver tissue with non-living scar tissue. It is a complication of liver disease from the progressive damage caused if not treated. Most people have no symptoms in the early stages, where the progression has the greatest chance of being reversed. If you are at risk for liver disease, the time to act is now. What Causes Cirrhosis? Cirrhosis is the result of chronic inflammation and swelling that scars the liver. It can take many years to get to this stage. Many different liver diseases can progress to cirrhosis. However, the most common ones are Hepatitis C, Alcohol-related Liver Disease (ARLD), Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD), and Hepatitis B. In general, alcohol addiction and obesity are risk factors that can predispose you to liver disease and, ultimately, cirrhosis. NAFLD is the most common liver disease where fat accumulates in the liver and eventually can progress to liver failure. Insulin resistance, family history, metabolic syndrome, sedentary lifestyle, and chronic consumption of foods high in calories and fat are risk factors for NAFLD. Cirrhosis Stages The progression has 4 stages. The stage also determines whether the liver is compensated or decompensated. Compensated means the liver can still perform most of its essential functions despite scarring. Decompensated means the scarring now prevents the liver from functioning properly. Stage 1– Some scarring of the liver, but no complications and few symptoms. Stage 2– Blood flow through the liver becomes blocked, and pressure increases inside it. Enlarged veins that are a result of the added strain. Fatigue, itching, loss of appetite, fluid retention in legs, and bruising are more symptoms. Stage 3– The liver scarring becomes advanced, and the abdomen swells. Possible liver failure and serious complications can occur. This stage marks the transition into decompensated cirrhosis. Yellowing of the eyes and skin, brain fog, slurred speech, redness of the palms of hands, and internal bleeding are other symptoms. Stage 4– End-stage liver disease can develop, which is fatal if a transplant is not found. Early Detection and Treatment The liver is an amazing organ that can regenerate itself. Even with some scarring, the liver can heal itself well into the later stages when caught and treated. Cirrhosis has no cure. Though, by addressing any underlying conditions, making healthier lifestyle changes, and medications to control symptoms, patients can manage the progression. If you’re at risk, talk with your doctor. Arizona Liver Health conducts free fibroscans that can detect diseases of the liver such as NAFLD and NASH. Once results are ready, our medical staff will help you determine if additional steps are needed. If your results indicate abnormal liver function, our team will discuss enrolling studies for the liver that may be an option. Schedule your FREE fibroscan today! Request an appointment here. References: https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/diseases-of-the-liver/cirrhosis/#information-for-the-newly-diagnosed https://www.medicinenet.com/cirrhosis/article.htm https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-cirrhosis-treatment#2

NASH: A Modern Lifestyle Disease

November 24, 2020 No Comments

Every liver has a small amount of fat in it. With fatty liver, unhealthy fat levels begin to accumulate, leading to liver damage if not treated. There are various types of fatty liver disease, but NAFLD (non-alcoholic fatty liver disease) and alcoholic fatty liver disease are the two main types. Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is the middle stage in the progression to irreversible liver damage. NASH is primarily influenced by our diet, activity, and unhealthy choices. It is a modern lifestyle disease and a silent killer. NASH Spelled Out When your liver accumulates too much fat, a series of events is triggered that begin the liver’s progressive damage. It starts with a simple fatty liver, then as the fat continues to accumulate, your immune system is activated, signaling it needs to fight what is causing the buildup. If the fat isn’t reduced, the immune response never turns off and begins to scar the liver. Scars tissue grows and will start to replace healthy liver tissue, in a process known as fibrosis. NASH is the stage where fibrosis starts becoming more widespread. If diagnosed and treated here, there is a chance the liver can repair itself over time. It is often called the tipping point because, eventually, irreversible damage begins in the cirrhosis stage if not treated. Liver complications, liver cancer, and finally, liver failure follow. They call it the silent killer because it often goes unnoticed until the later stages, and there is no hope of restoring the liver. Early Stages: Fatigue Pain or discomfort in the upper right abdomen Later Stages: Abdominal swelling (ascites) Enlarged blood vessels just beneath the skin’s surface Red palms Yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) Influenced by Lifestyle Chronic, excessive calorie intake and sedentary lifestyle are some of the heaviest influences in developing fatty liver disease. The liver is a resilient organ, and if diagnosed at the beginning of progression, can heal itself in due time. Early intervention focuses on spreading awareness of the risk factors: Hypertension Heart disease High blood lipid levels Insulin resistance Type 2 diabetes Obesity Clinical Research Studies’ Impact on NASH Though it’s possible to reverse liver damage in most of the stages of fatty liver disease, chances decrease as time goes by. If you are at risk of fatty liver disease and NASH, making healthier lifestyle changes not only reduces your risk of developing NAFLD but also halting it in its’ tracks. Staying active regularly, controlling your weight, eating a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol are recommended. If you smoke, stop. If you use drugs, stop. You can’t live without a liver. Arizona Liver Health is conducting FREE fibroscans, which are a quick, painless way to detect NAFLD and NASH. Our team will discuss the results and options and opportunities going forward. If your results indicate abnormal levels, we will talk to you about our research studies looking into new ways to treat NASH. There are no current treatment options specific to NASH, so this is a great opportunity to improve patients’ care and be a part of history. Are you concerned about your NASH risk? There’s no time to waste; get your FREE fibroscan today here at Arizona Liver Health. Visit our website to learn more! References: https://www.the-nash-education-program.com/what-is-nash/ https://liverfoundation.org/for-patients/about-the-liver/the-progression-of-liver-disease/#1503432933768-040e8645-d918 https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20354567

COVID-19 Household

November 10, 2020 No Comments

When the coronavirus pandemic hit, we cleared store shelves to prepare for what we feared was the worst. Families of healthcare workers, emergency responders, and other high-risk positions set up decontamination protocols in their homes in hopes of avoiding infection. Unfortunately, COVID-19 can still hit your household, despite all precautions. With a little preparation and determination, your family can get through it in the safest possible way. Challenges of a COVID-19 Household When someone is diagnosed in your family, the main thing is isolating them to prevent the virus from spreading. However, space and their function in the family role can make this a real challenge, among other things. Tasks shift from two to one, which puts pressure on the other partner who is likely already maxed out. This is true especially if there are children involved. Stress and emotions can build up for who it all falls on, and fear and guilt in the sick family member. The challenges may vary from home to home, but it’s tough any way you look at it. Separate but Unified Dealing with a loved one who has COVID-19 can be a scary experience. Even though you are separated from your loved one, you can help them get better and keep everyone else safe by staying the course. There are many things to remember when it comes to taking care of someone with COVID-19. We understand that everyone’s situation is different, but these can be used as a guide to get started and can be modified: Function as a Unit: Identify one person who isn’t in the high-risk categories to care for the sick person. A separate person should be responsible for family members who need help with daily tasks like bathing, cleaning, and eating. Separate Space: Pick a sick room and bathroom. If this cannot be achieved, separate a space in a shared room by a divider, and maintain 6 feet of distance at all times. The sick person should clean a shared bathroom after each use. All shared areas should be well-ventilated and cleaned frequently. Keep Your Distance: Maintain 6 feet away from those who are sick at all times. Ill family members should not prepare food and should eat separately from others. Lastly, don’t forget to take care of you. Reach out if you are overwhelmed or need help so you can get the support needed. Changing the Future of COVID-19 Having COVID-19 and being in isolation can make you feel like a burden as you struggle to let others care for you. It’s hard to ride out not only the illness symptoms themselves but also complete quarantine after. Just keep in mind that your most significant role is keeping your family safe. By separation, you are doing that. Researchers and other health experts have all hands-on deck as they work to find ways to diagnose, treat, and prevent COVID-19. Clinical research studies are being conducted right now, which are looking into some of the promising options in the fight against COVID-19. The volunteers participating in studies make this possible. If you or a loved one have COVID-19, you have a unique opportunity to change the virus’s future. To learn if volunteering in COVID trials here at Arizona Clinical Trials is right for you, visit our website for more information, or call (480) 360-4000. References: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/living-in-close-quarters.html

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COVID-19 Clinical Research Archives - AZ Clinical Trials

Safer at Home: Treating COVID-19

Pandemic Fatigue

Falling in Love with Your Health

Keeping Healthy During Quarantine

New Year – New Diet – Same Liver

Volunteering: The Gift the Keeps on Giving

A Complication of Liver Disease: Cirrhosis

NASH: A Modern Lifestyle Disease

COVID-19 Household

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