Der Schmerz
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Tension-type headache is the most frequent form of headache. The local topical treatment with peppermint oil (oleum menthae piperitae) has proven to be significantly more effective than placebo in controlled studies. ⋯ Solutions of 10 % peppermint oil in ethanol are licensed for the treatment of tension-type headache in adults and children above 6 years. It is included in treatment recommendations and guidelines by the respective professional societies and is regarded as a standard treatment for the acute therapy of tension-type headaches.
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In line with the increased life expectancy of people in Germany, the probability of falling ill with a malignant disease is continuously increasing. About 480,000 people in Germany contract cancer every year. One of the most important symptoms of a malignant disease is pain. Between 40 and 100% of patients with advanced cancer suffer from pain. The aim of this investigation is to show how German general practitioners care for these patients using analgetics. ⋯ Most GPs in Germany follow the principles of WHO structured pain therapy. However, further improvement of the results may be achieved through intensive training of colleagues.
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The practical year (PY) during the final year of medical education is intended to deepen and broaden knowledge, skills, and abilities that were acquired during previous years of their studies. Against this background, this study pursues the question of how the knowledge of future physicians and their confidence in terms of cancer pain therapy and other palliative care issues develops during the PY. ⋯ In the present study, considerable deficits in confidence and knowledge regarding palliative care issues were also observed at the end of PY. Integration of palliative care into the medical school curriculums should be given special attention in terms of a longitudinal training of the PY.