10/1/2004 - By Leigh Erin Connealy, MD
The Mad Hatter Syndrome
The term “Mad as a Hatter” will forever be linked to the madcap milliner in Lewis Carroll’s classic children’s book, Alice in Wonderland. But few actually know that the true origin of the saying relates to a disease peculiar to the hat making industry in the 1800’s. A mercury solution was commonly used during the process of turning fur into felt, causing the hatters to breathe in the fumes of this highly toxic metal, a situation exacerbated by the poor ventilation in most of the workshops. This led in turn to an accumulation of mercury in the worker’s bodies, resulting in symptoms such as trembling (known as “hatters shakes”), loss of coordination, slurred speech, loosening of teeth, memory loss, depression, irritability and anxiety- “The Mad Hatter Syndrome”. The phrase is still used today to describe the effects of mercury poisoning, albeit from other sources. (more)


9/1/2004 - By Leigh Erin Connealy, MD
Stress and Your Hormones
Stress is a common challenge that we all face on a regular basis. The causes of stress can range from minor irritations, such as traffic jams or lack of sleep, to more significant events such as divorce or the loss of a loved one. And while the spectrum of stress is vast, the way that our bodies react to such stressors remains constant (more)


8/1/2004 - By Leigh Erin Connealy, MD
Meditating To Health
Meditation is a treatment in mind/body medicine, which refers to the way our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors effect our health. While the history of meditation can trace its’ roots all the way back to the 1st century BC, new physiological benefits are still being realized today. (more)


- By Leigh Erin Connealy, MD
The Big Sleep or The ABCs of Catching Zs
A recent study concluded that 90% of Americans suffer from too little sleep. Sleep is vital to maintaining good health and a positive mental well being. During the deepest stages of the sleep cycle, the immune system repairs damage inflicted to the body throughout the waking hours while important neurotransmitters in the brain refuel for the day to come. (more)


- By Leigh Erin Connealy, MD
Battling the Blues (And Winning)
Summer time is over, the kids are back in school and soon the holiday preparations will begin. But unfortunately, what should be a magical time of year, all too often signals the beginning of the winter blues for millions of Americans. And whether you suffer from a mild form of depression when it comes time to start your holiday shopping, or you go into full blown panic attacks at the mere mention of hosting Thanksgiving dinner, you are not alone. The good news is that, while the changing of the seasons is inevitable, the holiday blues don’t have to be. (more)