death – NOT YOUR DOC

Illness and suffering, our own, as well as that of others, remind us of the miracle of life, the elevation of life through love and empathy, the wonder of nature and the universe, the superficiality of physical death, and the infinite possibilities yet to be uncovered.

Charles Tadros, M.D. February 7, 2023 Saint Louis, Missouri

I ASK PATIENTS TO NOT SUDDENLY STOP SUBSTANCES SUCH AS ALCOHOL, BENZODIAZEPINES (Valium, Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Tranxene, etc.), OR SEDATIVE-HYPNOTIC DRUGS (these are sleep aids, which are typically long-acting benzodiazepines such as Ambien, Lunesta, Restoril, Dalmane, Halcion, etc.) WITHOUT PROFESSIONAL HELP. SUDDEN CESSATION OF THESE PRODUCTS MAY LEAD TO SEIZURES AND DEATH.

Often, unintentionally, or due to fragmentation of care, or due to improper documentation/lack of review of documentation, or due to concealment by the patient, some patients are also using alcohol while taking a benzodiazepine along with a sleep aid. The combination of 2 or 3 categories of products are especially dangerous (excessive sedation, confusion/delirium, falls,Continue reading “I ASK PATIENTS TO NOT SUDDENLY STOP SUBSTANCES SUCH AS ALCOHOL, BENZODIAZEPINES (Valium, Xanax, Ativan, Klonopin, Tranxene, etc.), OR SEDATIVE-HYPNOTIC DRUGS (these are sleep aids, which are typically long-acting benzodiazepines such as Ambien, Lunesta, Restoril, Dalmane, Halcion, etc.) WITHOUT PROFESSIONAL HELP. SUDDEN CESSATION OF THESE PRODUCTS MAY LEAD TO SEIZURES AND DEATH.”

ON DEATH AND DYING

Sitting with, living with, or caring for someone for the last few weeks or months of life are the most revealing to what it really takes to provide good care and comfort for the terminally ill and the dying. Dropping in for a few minutes or FaceTiming the terminally ill or dying does not giveContinue reading “ON DEATH AND DYING”