Question: What questions might my doctor ask about my erectile dysfunction?

Answer: The questions may include: Do you ever get an erection? If you do, is it firm enough to have sex? If you do start to have sex, do you then lose the erection? Does it ever come back? Can you get an erection by masturbation? Do you ever wake up with an erection? The doctor will ask if you smoke, how much alcohol you drink, and whether or not you use recreational drugs.


Question: What are medical causes of heartburn and acid reflux?

Answer: These factors include: Dietary Habits Eating large portions Eating certain foods, including onions, chocolate, peppermint, high-fat or spicy foods, citrus fruits, garlic, and tomatoes or tomato-based products Drinking certain beverages, including citrus juices, alcohol, and caffeinated and carbonated drinks Eating before bedtime Lifestyle Habits Being overweight Smoking Wearing tight-fitting clothing or belts Lying down or bending over, especially after eating Medical Causes Pregnancy Bulging of the stomach into the chest cavity, also called hiatal hernia GERD Ulcers Certain bacteria Taking certain medications, especially some antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aleve or Advil


Question: How many Americans experience heartburn/reflux symptoms at least once each month?

Answer: Most people have felt heartburn at one time or another. In fact, the American Gastroenterological Association reports that more than 60 million Americans experience heartburn/reflux symptoms at least once each month. Though uncomfortable, heartburn does not usually present a serious health problem for most people.


Question: What lifestyle habits can cause heartburn?

Answer: These factors include: Dietary Habits Eating large portions Eating certain foods, including onions, chocolate, peppermint, high-fat or spicy foods, citrus fruits, garlic, and tomatoes or tomato-based products Drinking certain beverages, including citrus juices, alcohol, and caffeinated and carbonated drinks Eating before bedtime Lifestyle Habits Being overweight Smoking Wearing tight-fitting clothing or belts Lying down or bending over, especially after eating Medical Causes Pregnancy Bulging of the stomach into the chest cavity, also called hiatal hernia GERD Ulcers Certain bacteria Taking certain medications, especially some antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aleve or Advil


Question: What dietary habits can cause heartburn?

Answer: These factors include: Dietary Habits Eating large portions Eating certain foods, including onions, chocolate, peppermint, high-fat or spicy foods, citrus fruits, garlic, and tomatoes or tomato-based products Drinking certain beverages, including citrus juices, alcohol, and caffeinated and carbonated drinks Eating before bedtime Lifestyle Habits Being overweight Smoking Wearing tight-fitting clothing or belts Lying down or bending over, especially after eating Medical Causes Pregnancy Bulging of the stomach into the chest cavity, also called hiatal hernia GERD Ulcers Certain bacteria Taking certain medications, especially some antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aleve or Advil


Question: How can I prepare for an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

Answer: Let your doctor know about any medications -- both prescription and over-the-counter -- and supplements you're taking. Wash your hair the night before the test. Don't use any leave-in conditioning or styling products afterward.


Question: What happens after an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

Answer: The technician will take the electrodes off and wash off the glue that held them in place. You can use a little fingernail polish remover at home to get rid of any leftover stickiness. Unless you're actively having seizures or your doctor says you shouldn't, you can drive home. But if the EEG was done overnight, it's better to have someone else drive you. You can usually start taking medications you'd stopped specifically for the test. A neurologist, a doctor who specializes in the brain, will look at the recording of your brain wave pattern.


Question: What is an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

Answer: The machine is only recording the activity of the brain and does not stimulate it. It's rare to have a seizure during the test.


Question: What happens during an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

Answer: You lie down on the exam table or bed, and a technician puts about 20 small sensors on your scalp. These sensors, called electrodes, pick up electrical activity from cells inside your brain called neurons and send them to a machine, where they show up as a series of lines recorded on moving paper or displayed on a computer screen. You'll relax with your eyes open first, then with them closed. The technician may ask you to breathe deeply and rapidly or to stare at a flashing light, because both of these can change your brain wave patterns.


Question: How can inflammatory bowel diseases trigger problems elsewhere in the body?

Answer: You know the main symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases. But did you know that Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis -- both of which are IBDs -- can trigger problems elsewhere in your body? They can show up before you even know you have an IBD, or not until years after your diagnosis. Many of these issues go away when you get your irritable bowel disease under control. That's because treating the inflammation that goes along with an IBD can help manage it in other parts of your body, too.


Question: How else can inflammatory bowel disease affect someone?

Answer: Other potential problems include: Anemia Gallstones and kidney stones Inflamed liver Inflamed or scarred bile ducts, especially if you have ulcerative colitis Delayed growth or puberty in children and teens Your doctor will help you spot these problems. He may refer you to a specialist, like a rheumatologist for your joints, a dermatologist for your skin, or an ophthalmologist for your eyes, depending on how bad your symptoms are.


Question: How are bones affected by inflammatory bowel disease?

Answer: There are a couple of reasons people with IBD get osteoporosis. Medications, like steroids, not enough physical activity, and trouble absorbing vitamin D and minerals such as calcium and magnesium all play a role. You're also more likely to break a bone than the people without an irritable bowel disease. This risk goes up as you age. Usually, women are at greater risk for osteoporosis. But IBD-related osteoporosis affects men and women in equal numbers. Calcium and vitamin supplements can help keep your bones healthy, along with exercise, avoiding alcohol, and not smoking.


Question: How are joints affected by inflammatory bowel disease?

Answer: Joint pain is the most common non-gut ailment for people with IBD. It can affect your large joints like your ankles, hips, or knees, or small ones like your fingers. Although you might notice symptoms as long as a decade before you're diagnosed, this type of arthritis usually doesn't damage your joints. It should go away once you get your disease under control. Talk to your doctor before you take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) for joint pain. They can make your IBD worse.


Question: Which areas of the body can extra-intestinal symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease affect?

Answer: These âextra-intestinalâ symptoms, as doctors like to call them, can affect many areas of your body, including your joints, mouth, eyes, skin, liver, gallbladder, kidney, and pancreas. Even osteoporosis has been linked to IBDs. You can have one of these extra symptoms or several. They're more common if your parents or siblings have an irritable bowel disease and have extra-intestinal problems related to IBD.


Question: How is skin affected by inflammatory bowel disease?

Answer: It should go away once you get your disease under control. You might hear your doctor call them erythema nodosum. They'll probably show up at the same time as your IBD flares. They, too, will go away -- without leaving scars -- when you get a handle on the disease. Less common but more serious are ulcers that can range from a small spot to the length of your leg. The more serious your IBD symptoms are, the more likely you are to get them. Doctors treat them with high-powered meds that target your immune system. If you have Crohn's disease, you might also get lesions inside your mouth. Antiseptic mouthwash and topical steroids can help.


Question: How can I find the cause of memory loss?

Answer: If you find that you are increasingly forgetful or if memory problems interfere with your daily life, schedule an appointment with your doctor to determine the cause and best treatment. To evaluate memory loss, your doctor will take a medical history, perform a physical exam -- including a neurologic exam -- and ask questions to test mental ability. Depending on the results, further evaluation may include blood and urine tests, nerve tests, and imaging tests of the brain such as computerized axial tomography ( CAT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI).


Question: How can sleep deprivation lead to memory loss?

Answer: Both quantity and quality of sleep are important to memory. Getting too little sleep or waking frequently in the night can lead to fatigue, which interferes with the ability to consolidate and retrieve information.


Question: How is memory loss treated?

Answer: A severe hit to the head -- from a fall or automobile accident, for example -- can injure the brain and cause both short- and long-term memory loss. For example, memory loss from medications may resolve with a change in medication. Nutritional supplements can be useful against memory loss caused by a nutritional deficiency. And treating depression may be helpful for memory when depression is a factor. In some cases -- such as following a stroke -- therapy may help people remember how to do certain tasks such as walking or tying shoes. In others, memory may improve over time. Treatments may also be specific to conditions related to memory loss. For example, drugs are available to treat memory problems related to Alzheimer's disease, and drugs to help lower blood pressure can help reduce risk of more brain damage from dementia related to high blood pressure.


Question: How can alcohol, tobacco, or drug use lead to memory loss?

Answer: Alcohol, tobacco, or drug use. Studies have shown that people who smoke find it more difficult to put faces with names than do nonsmokers. Illicit drugs can change chemicals in the brain that can make it hard to recall memories. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is stopped due to the blockage of a blood vessel to the brain or leakage of a vessel into the brain.


Question: How can nutritional deficiency lead to memory loss?

Answer: Both quantity and quality of sleep are important to memory. Deficiencies in vitamin B1 and B12 specifically can affect memory.


Question: How can strokes lead to memory loss?

Answer: Strokes often cause short-term memory loss. A person who has had a stroke may have vivid memories of childhood events but be unable to recall what he or she had for lunch. Although there are many causes of dementia -- including blood vessel disease, drug or alcohol abuse, or other causes of damage to the brain -- the most common and familiar is Alzheimer's disease.


Question: How can depression and stress lead to?

Answer: Illicit drugs can change chemicals in the brain that can make it hard to recall memories. Stress and anxiety can also get in the way of concentration. When you are tense and your mind is overstimulated or distracted, your ability to remember can suffer. Stress caused by an emotional trauma can also lead to memory loss.


Question: What are side effects of nitrates?

Answer: While you're using nitrates, get your blood pressure checked regularly. Nitrates may make you feel dizzy. You may also get a rapid, irregular, or pounding heartbeat when you take the drugs regularly. It usually gets better after the first few weeks. If it keeps up, talk to your doctor. Some other side effects are: Headache Flushing of your face or neck. Call your doctor if it persists or is severe. Low blood pressure.


Question: How should you take nitrates?

Answer: Some nitrates include: Dilatrate- SR, Iso- Bid, Isonate, Isorbid, Isordil, Isotrate, Sorbitrate (isosorbide dinitrate) Imdur (isosorbide mononitrate) Bi Dil (hydralazine with isosorbide dinitrate) Follow the label directions on when and how to take them. It's OK to take these drugs with or without meals. Talk to your doctor to make sure you understand how to take these medications during the day. The number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and how long you need to take them depend on your condition.


Question: What are the risks of gastric sleeve weight loss surgery?

Answer: Certain foods may not agree with you now. You may also develop nutrition problems after surgery, which is why you have to take vitamins and supplements for life. Your doctor will advise you on exactly what you need.


Question: What changes will I need to make to my diet after gastric sleeve surgery?

Answer: After that first month, you'll switch to eating soft solid foods very slowly. Other pointers to keep in mind: Everything must be chewed thoroughly before being swallowed. Don't drink while you eat, as this might cause your new stomach to overfill. Drink liquids a half-hour after finishing a meal. Avoid high-calorie sodas and snacking. Take vitamin and mineral supplements every day.


Question: What happens during gastric sleeve weight loss surgery?

Answer: The surgery takes about an hour. Your surgeon will make a few small cuts in your belly and insert a laparoscope -- an instrument with a tiny camera that sends pictures to a monitor. The surgeon will then insert other medical instruments through the additional cuts and remove 3/4 of your stomach. Finally, he'll reattach the rest of your stomach to form the "sleeve" or tube. You might be in hospital about 2 or 3 days. The procedure is permanent.


Question: How much weight do people lose after gastric sleeve weight loss surgery?

Answer: People generally lose 60% of their extra weight over 12 to 18 months. So if you are 100 pounds overweight, you'll lose about 60 pounds, though some lose more and others less. Of course, exercising and eating right add to your weight loss.


Question: When can I go back to regular means after gastric sleeve weight loss surgery?

Answer: You won't be able to eat as much as you used to, which helps you lose weight. Your doctor will advise you on exactly what you need.


Question: What can happen if gallstones are left untreated?

Answer: If left untreated, gallstones can also lead to more serious problems, like: Cholecystitis -- an inflamed gallbladder Pancreatitis -- an inflamed pancreas Cholangitis -- inflamed bile ducts Before your doctor opts for surgery, he'll run several tests to see the effect your gallstones are having on your health.


Question: What is recovery like after gallbladder surgery?

Answer: The length of time it takes you to heal depends on the type of surgery you have. If you have your gallbladder removed during open surgery, you'll need to stay in the hospital for a few days afterward. It may take between 6 to 8 weeks for your body to heal fully. Laparoscopy is less involved, so you'll have less pain and heal faster than if you have open surgery. Most people who have it are able to go home from the hospital the same day. You'll likely be back to your normal routine within 2 weeks.


Question: What tests are done before surgery for gallstones?

Answer: If left untreated, gallstones can also lead to more serious problems, like: Cholecystitis -- an inflamed gallbladder Pancreatitis -- an inflamed pancreas Cholangitis -- inflamed bile ducts Before your doctor opts for surgery, he'll run several tests to see the effect your gallstones are having on your health. Tests might include: Blood test Ultrasound MRI HIDA (hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid) scan -- a radioactive chemical is put into your body to create images of any blocked ducts Endoscopic ultrasonography -- an imaging device is put into your mouth and down through your digestive tract so sound waves can create a detailed picture of your small intestine You may be able to manage your symptoms for a short time by making changes to your diet.


Question: What are the risks of gallbladder surgery?

Answer: Doctors believe gallbladder surgery is safe, but some problems can still arise. These may include: Problems with anesthesia Infection Bleeding Swelling Bile leakage Damage to a bile duct Damage to your intestine, bowel, or blood vessels Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots) Heart problems Pneumonia You also run the risk of a problem doctors call âpost-cholecystectomy syndromeâ ( PCS). It can happen if any gallstones are left in your bile ducts or bile happens to leak into your stomach. The symptoms of PCS are similar to those of gallstones. They include belly pain, heartburn, and diarrhea.


Question: What should you know about getting surgery for gallstones?

Answer: About 80% of people who have gallstones will need surgery. Doctors can remove your gallbladder in one of two ways: Open surgery: During this procedure, your surgeon will make a 5- to 7-inch incision (cut) on your belly to take out your gallbladder. And even if your gallstones do go away, there's a chance they'll return. It can happen if any gallstones are left in your bile ducts or bile happens to leak into your stomach. The length of time it takes you to heal depends on the type of surgery you have. Most people who have it are able to go home from the hospital the same day.


Question: When do you need surgery for gallstones?

Answer: You'll need open surgery if you have a bleeding disorder. You'll only need it if a stone goes into, or blocks, one of your bile ducts. This causes what doctors call a âgallbladder attack.â It's an intense, knife-like pain in your belly that can last several hours.


Question: How is laparoscopic cholecystectomy done for gallstones?

Answer: Doctors can remove your gallbladder in one of two ways: Open surgery: During this procedure, your surgeon will make a 5- to 7-inch incision (cut) on your belly to take out your gallbladder. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy: Doctors also call this âkeyhole surgery.â Your surgeon doesn't make a big opening in your belly. Instead, he makes four small cuts. Next, he'll insert special tools to remove the diseased organ.


Question: How should I clean up my cat’s vomit?

Answer: 3 -- Vomit Like humans, cats vomit. Unlike humans, they don't do it in the toilet. Try to clean the mess before it sets to avoid odors and stubborn stains. If the vomit is solid, pick it up with a paper towel. Then scrub the area with a pet-safe deodorizing cleaner. If the vomit is loose, scrape it into one pile with a plastic spoon. Blot the area with paper towels. Then use a deodorizer or pet stain-and-odor remover. You may need to clean stubborn stains or odors more than once.


Question: How can I help stop my cat from spraying urine?

Answer: To stop your cat from spraying, try a pheromone product. It smells like your cat's natural scent. One whiff, and he'll have no reason to mark his territory again.


Question: How should I clean up my cat’s poop?

Answer: 2 -- Poop Cat poop may be smellier than urine, but it's easier to get off your floor. Wear gloves. Cat feces may contain a parasite that causes toxoplasmosis, a disease that's especially dangerous to pregnant women. If you're pregnant, let your partner clean up the mess. Pick up the poop with paper towels. Throw it out in the same place you toss your litter box scoopings. Rinse the area with cool water and blot dry. Apply an enzyme-based pet stain-and-odor remover.


Question: How should I clean up my cat’s urine sprays and stains?

Answer: Don't use any ammonia-based cleaning products. They smell like cat pee, which may entice kitty to re-mark the spot. Soak the area with carpet cleaner or a few drops of dish detergent mixed with water. Let it sit for 1 to 2 hours. Rinse with a wet sponge. The next day, spray the area with an enzymatic cleaner such as A. O. E. ( Animal Odor Eliminator), Elim- Odor Feline, or F. O. N. ( Feline Odor Neutralizer). Keep your cat away until the area dries. Blot the area with paper towels.


Question: Why would a cat not use the litter box and make a mess on the floor or carpet?

Answer: 1 -- Urine Sprays and Stains Cats don't always aim straight for the litter box. When your cat leaves a "present" on the carpet, he could be spraying to mark his territory or objecting to the litter box’s location or cleanliness. Whatever your cat's reason for peeing on the carpet, it's going to stink if you don't clean it up quickly. Cats can sniff out areas they've marked and target them again. If your cat soils your carpets and never did this before, or she constantly soils the carpets, call your vet. It could be a sign of a health problem that needs attention.


Question: What are common signs of insomnia with untreated depression?

Answer: Common signs of insomnia include: Daytime fatigue Irritability and difficulty concentrating Sleep that never feels like "enough" Trouble falling asleep Trouble going back to sleep after waking up during the night Waking up at all hours of the night Waking up before the alarm clock goes off Alcohol and drug abuse are common among people with clinical depression.


Question: How is sleep disrupted by untreated depression?

Answer: Though the most common problem is insomnia (difficulty getting adequate sleep), people sometimes feel an increased need for sleep and experience excessive energy loss. Lack of sleep can cause some of the same symptoms as depression -- extreme tiredness, loss of energy, and difficulty concentrating or making decisions. In addition, untreated depression may result in weight gain or loss, feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, and irritability. Treating the depression helps the person get control over all of these depression symptoms.


Question: What are warning signs of suicide with untreated depression?

Answer: Warning signs of suicide include: Talking, writing, or thinking about killing or hurting oneself or threatening to do so Depression (deep sadness, loss of interest, trouble sleeping and eating) that gets worse Having a "death wish;" tempting fate by taking risks that could lead to death -- for example, driving through red lights Losing interest in things one used to care about Making comments about being hopeless, helpless, or worthless Putting affairs in order, tying up loose ends, or changing a will Saying things like "it would be better if I wasn't here" or " I want out" A sudden switch from being very sad to being very calm or appearing to be happy Suddenly visiting or calling people one cares about Talking about suicide Increase in drinking alcohol or using drugs Writing a suicidal note Watching well publicized murder and/or suicide reports in the media Conducting on-line searches on ways to commit suicide Seeking methods to kill oneself, such as getting a gun or pills For in depth information, see Web MD's Depression and Suicide.


Question: Why is untreated depression considered to be a disability?

Answer: Depression can render people disabled in their work life, family life, and social life. Left untreated, clinical depression is as costly as heart disease or AIDS to the U. S. economy. Untreated depression is responsible for more than 200 million days lost from work each year. The annual cost of untreated depression is more than $43.7 billion in absenteeism from work, lost productivity, and direct treatment costs.


Question: How does untreated depression affect my family?

Answer: Living with a depressed person is very difficult and stressful for family members and friends. It's often helpful to have a family member involved in the evaluation and treatment of a depressed relative. Sometimes marital or even family therapy is indicated.


Question: Are the signs of untreated depression in men different from those in women?

Answer: Men who have untreated clinical depression may exhibit more anger, frustration, and violent behavior than women. In addition, men with untreated depression may take dangerous risks such as reckless driving and having unsafe sex. Men are not aware that physical symptoms, such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain, can be symptoms of depression.


Question: What should you know about untreated depression?

Answer: Clinical depression affects the way you eat and sleep. It affects the way you feel about yourself and those around you. It even affects your thoughts. People who are depressed cannot simply âpull themselves togetherâ and be cured. Without proper treatment, including antidepressants and/or psychotherapy, untreated clinical depression can last for weeks, months, or years. Appropriate treatment, however, can help most people with depression. There is mounting evidence that clinical depression takes a serious toll on physical health. Signs of drug and alcohol abuse include: Inability to maintain personal relationships Secretive alcohol use Self-pity Tremors Unexplained memory loss Unwillingness to talk about drugs or alcohol Those who suffer depression and abuse drugs or alcohol may need very specialized treatment. Left untreated, clinical depression is as costly as heart disease or AIDS to the U. S. economy. Untreated depression makes it difficult for employees to work well.


Question: Who can be treated successfully for clinical depression?

Answer: Appropriate treatment, however, can help most people with depression. People with untreated depression can usually get to work.


Question: What are signs of primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: Signs that your child may have a PIDD include: Has four or more infections a year in the ears, lungs, skin, eyes, mouth, or private parts Needs to get antibiotics through an IV for infections Gets more than one severe, fast-moving illness, like septicemia, a bacterial infection of the blood Has thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth) that doesn't go away Antibiotics don't work well Gets pneumonia more than once a year Your doctor will do a physical exam and may ask you questions like: Has your child had a lot of severe infections?


Question: How does a primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) affect you?

Answer: If your child has it, in most cases he'll be able to go to school and make friends like other kids. As an adult with a PIDD, he'll be able to work and have an active, normal life.


Question: When should I notice the symptoms of primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: You may not notice any symptoms until your child is a few months old. He may get a lot of serious infections, or his illness may start out as a common cold but turn into bronchitis or pneumonia.


Question: How can a stem cell transplant treat primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: It's rare, but for a very severe PIDD, your child could need a stem cell transplant. In some cases, it's a cure. Stem cells help make new blood cells. They come from bone marrow, which is the soft center of the bones. For a transplant, a donor supplies stem cells with unbroken genes. Your child will need to find someone who is the right match so that his body accepts the new cells. Close relatives, such as a brother or sister, are the best chance. Someone from the same racial or ethnic background may also be a good donor. If no one you know is a match, you can put your child on a waiting list.


Question: How should children with primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) eat and exercise?

Answer: Just like anyone else, your child should eat good foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Make exercise a habit, and see that he gets plenty of sleep, too.


Question: What is a primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD)?

Answer: When your child has a primary immunodeficiency disease ( PIDD), his body has a harder time fighting germs that make people sick. He may get a lot of infections in his ears, lungs, skin, or other areas that take a long time to go away. Most cases happen in babies or young children, but sometimes it doesn't show up until adulthood. There are many different types -- more than 200 -- and they affect different parts of the immune system. All make it more likely that he'll get sick from infections.


Question: What causes primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD)?

Answer: You can't catch PIDDs like you can a cold or the flu. Your child has it because he was born with a broken gene that affects his immune system. Sometimes this problem runs in families. Or it may have happened on its own. Normally, your body's white blood cells fight infections. Some people with PIDDs are missing certain types of white blood cells, or those cells don't work very well. If that's true for your child, he's more likely to get sick from infections that wouldn't take hold in someone else.


Question: How does immunoglobulin (Ig) replacement therapy treat primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: These are disease-fighting proteins called antibodies that your child needs. Doctors usually give it through a needle, by IV. The antibodies only last so long, so your child may need a treatment every 3 or 4 weeks. He might have some side effects such as achy muscles or joints, headaches, or a low fever.


Question: How can a child who has primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) keep from catching diseases?

Answer: To keep germs away, wash hands often, lathering up with soap for at least 20 seconds. Teach him to keep rubbing his soapy hands together while singing the " Happy Birthday" song twice, which is long enough to get the job done. You can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water aren't available. Stress can make it harder for his body to fight disease. Encourage him to take time to relax, play, and enjoy hobbies. Massage therapy, exercise, being with people he likes, and prayer or meditation are some other ways to lower his stress.


Question: What are questions to ask my doctor about primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD)?

Answer: What else could cause these symptoms? How can I keep my child from getting sick? What reactions should I expect from the treatment? Should my child get all the usual vaccines? Does my child need to stay away from some sports?


Question: How should I take care of my child with primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD)?

Answer: Even with a PIDD, your child will be able to go to school, make friends, and keep up with activities. You'll want to meet with his teachers to explain his condition and to let them know he may need to miss classes because of illness more often than other kids. You should also let the school know about medications he'll need to take.


Question: What happens during a stem cell transplant treat primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: During the transplant, your child will get the new stem cells through an IV. He won't feel any pain from this, and he'll be awake while it's happening. It could take 2 to 6 weeks for the new stem cells to multiply and start making healthy, working blood cells. During this time, your child may need to stay in the hospital or, at the very least, make visits every day to get checked by his transplant team. It can take 6 months to a year until the number of good blood cells in his body gets up to normal.


Question: What can I expect from primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) and its treatments?

Answer: Everyone's experience with a PIDD is different because there are so many types of this disease. Most people, with the right treatment, can live a full and active life. The most severe forms of the disease may be treated, and possibly cured, with stem cell transplants, although that's not an easy process. When your child has this illness, the whole family will need lots of emotional support from people like friends, extended family members, and neighbors. Talk to your doctor about getting in touch with other families who have a child with a severe PIDD and can understand what it's like.


Question: Where can I get information about primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) treatments and support groups?

Answer: The web site of the Immune Deficiency Foundation can help you find a doctor or get in touch with a support group. The site also has information about clinical trials. These test new drugs to see if they're safe and how well they work. Trials are a way for people to try medicines that aren't available to everyone. Your doctor can tell you if this is a good option for your child.


Question: How do doctors treat primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD)?

Answer: If your child's PIDD is mild, he may need to take medicines to treat the infections he gets. The treatment takes several hours, and he'll need one every few weeks. Some severe forms of PIDD may need even more serious treatment: a bone marrow transplant, which has a long recovery time.


Question: How can a doctor diagnose a primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in a child?

Answer: Does your child stay sick even after taking antibiotics? Do other people in your family tend to get sick a lot? Other tests will measure certain proteins that fight disease, called immunoglobulins. Many states now test newborns for the most severe kind of PIDD, called SCID (severe combined immunodeficiency). The antibodies only last so long, so your child may need a treatment every 3 or 4 weeks.


Question: Should I stay away from people who are sick?

Answer: If possible, stay away from people who have a cold or the flu. If you can't -- because you're caring for a sick family member, for instance -- step up your hand-washing routine and your attention to other defenses against germs.


Question: When should I get the flu shot?

Answer: It's especially important if you're in a group that doctors say is at high risk for getting sick: Children Adults older than 50 Women who will be pregnant during flu season Nursing home residents People with asthma or a long-term heart or lung condition People with diabetes or another condition that weakens the immune system -- the body's defense against germs Health care workers For the best protection, get the flu vaccine when it comes out each year in October or November. But even later is better than not at all. It takes 2 weeks for the flu vaccine to take effect, and flu season can last into March or April.


Question: What is the best method for hand washing to prevent sickness?

Answer: Do it thoroughly: Use soap and water. Scrub for at least 20 seconds. Wash before you eat or prepare food and after you use the bathroom or change a diaper. If you're taking care of someone who's sick, wash your hands before and after being with them.


Question: Do I have to stay home when I'm sick?

Answer: Stay home when you're sick. If you go to school or work when you don't feel well, you can make a lot of people sick. Although a cold or flu might not be a big deal for you, it can be serious for people with weak immune systems, like young children, the elderly, and anyone with a long-term health problem. Working while you're sick isn't good for you, either. It can make it harder for your body to fight off a cold. So do what's best for you and everyone else. Take a couple of days off.


Question: Who should get a flu vaccine?

Answer: Anyone over 6 months old should get one. It's especially important if you're in a group that doctors say is at high risk for getting sick: Children Adults older than 50 Women who will be pregnant during flu season Nursing home residents People with asthma or a long-term heart or lung condition People with diabetes or another condition that weakens the immune system -- the body's defense against germs Health care workers For the best protection, get the flu vaccine when it comes out each year in October or November.


Question: Should I wash cloths and towels more often if someone in my home is sick?

Answer: Cold and flu germs can cling to fabric. So when someone in your house is sick, replace cloth hand towels and dishrags with paper towels. Remove water glasses and add paper cups in the bathroom, too.


Question: Can using hand sanitizer keep me from getting sick?

Answer: It's the next best thing if you can't get to a sink. Keep a small bottle with you -- at work, in your car, and in your purse. Buy one with at least 60% alcohol. Rub it all over your hands until they're dry.


Question: How can I disinfect an area if people around are sick?

Answer: If you don't have one with you, don't cough into your hand. Still, if someone in your family is sick, use one to wipe down high-traffic spots: computers, phones, doorknobs, and TV remotes.


Question: How can I keep a cold or flu away from my friends?

Answer: Then it's time for action. Cover your nose and mouth . If you don't have one with you, don't cough into your hand. You'll just smear germs on the next thing you touch. Instead, cough into the crook of your elbow.


Question: How can I avoid getting sick if people around me are?

Answer: Wash your hands . It's the single best way to avoid a cold. Once germs are on your hands, it's easy for them to get into your body when you touch your eyes or mouth. Take care of yourself.


Question: How can I change my lifestyle to avoid getting sick?

Answer: Or are you worried you may give your cold to your family? So make sure you eat nutritious food, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep.


Question: Can an oral surgeon help with my impacted teeth?

Answer: Impacted teeth: This mostly happens with wisdom teeth. But it can happen in other places in your mouth, too. When the teeth come through the gums for the first time, it might be crowded, so they either don't come out at all or don't come out completely. This can cause sore gums and infections. Your dentist or surgeon might recommend you get your wisdom teeth pulled, even before they present any problems.


Question: How can an oral surgeon help me with a missing tooth?

Answer: Implants: You can replace a missing tooth with a dental implant. The surgeon imbeds a titanium implant into your jaw, then your dentist attaches a crown.


Question: What conditions can oral surgeons help treat?

Answer: Cancer treatment: Oral surgeons also treat cancers, not just of the mouth, but also of the head and neck, like of the salivary glands, sinuses, throat, larynx, and lips. Oral surgeons can also help with: Nerve repair Cleft lips and cleft palate surgery Removal of lesions on the face or inside the mouth If you have problems with your teeth or gums, talk with your dentist.


Question: Can an oral surgeon help with issues with my jaw joint?

Answer: Jaw-joint issues: The temporomandibular joint ( TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. It's that little âhingeâ right in front of the ears. It can cause problems like pain in your jaw, jaw-popping, stiffness, and headaches. Oral devices, pain medication, and ice packs can help. But people with recurring problems may need oral surgery.


Question: Can an oral surgeon help correct issues with breathing and sleep?

Answer: Sleep and breathing issues: This covers things like snoring and sleep apnea, a condition that causes you to stop breathing for brief periods during sleep. A doctor with special training may recommend a CPAP machine or other appliance that can open your airway. He may also want you to have surgery, and you'd go to an oral surgeon. The type of surgery you'd have would depend on what's blocking your breathing.


Question: If I have problems with my teeth, gums, or jaws, why should I talk to my dentist first?

Answer: If you have problems with your teeth, gums, or jaws, go see your dentist, even if the pain is in the area around your mouth or face. If it's an emergency and a dentist is not available, head to an urgent care clinic rather than the ER. It's best, though, to try to avoid both if possible. They will only administer medication for the symptoms and tell you to see a dentist. They may also charge 3 to 4 times what it may cost to solve the problem. Your dentist can handle most oral problems. If he thinks you need an oral surgeon, he'll recommend one.


Question: What are oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and what kind of training do they get?

Answer: If your dentist recommends maxillofacial surgery, he's talking about a specialty of dentistry that relates to your face and jaws. It's a surgery that treats disease and injuries of the areas around your mouth. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons must complete extra training and education beyond what is normal for a dentist. Some get a medical degree (an MD) along with their oral surgery diplomas. They put in at least 4 years of training in a hospital-based surgical program alongside medical residents in many different specialties, including anesthesia. That includes various types of IV sedation, including "twilight sleep" and general anesthesia, where you're unconscious and can't feel any pain.


Question: Can an oral surgeon help correct overbites and underbites?

Answer: An oral surgeon can help you out of several situations. Overbite/underbite: If your jaw or teeth aren't aligned properly, your dentist may recommend orthognathic surgery. It's an option for people with excessive overbites or underbites, trouble chewing or swallowing, certain birth defects, or sleep apnea. Often, an orthodontist can correct your teeth if they don't line up. But if it's caused by your jaw, some time with an oral surgeon might be necessary.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from vaginal sex?

Answer: Yes, and either partner can get it! A woman can get HIV through the tissue that lines her vagina and cervix. The virus can get into a man through the opening of his penis or through a small cut or sore on it. Effective HIV drugs (antiretroviral therapy) will greatly reduce the chances that an HIV infected person can give HIV to his/her partner in this way. However, even when HIV drugs are used, use a condom to cut your chances of the virus passing between you, as well as getting any other sexually transmitted infections.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from a blood transfusion?

Answer: HIV isn't spread through saliva. But if you kiss someone who's infected and has bleeding gums or sores, you could get the virus if you also have cuts or sores around or in your mouth -- because of the blood-to-blood contact. Careful testing makes sure that blood bank supplies are HIV-free.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from a hug?

Answer: In fact, it's a lot harder to give it to someone else. HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. Hugging and shaking hands are safe.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from someone's tears, sweat, vomit, or pee?

Answer: HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. Not like that. Sweat and tears don't carry HIV. And even though they might have a trace of blood, there have been no reported cases of HIV from vomit or pee.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) if someone with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) bites, scratches, or spits on you?

Answer: HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. HIV isn't spread through saliva. But if you kiss someone who's infected and has bleeding gums or sores, you could get the virus if you also have cuts or sores around or in your mouth -- because of the blood-to-blood contact. If you're trying to catch HIV, this is the way to have sex. But it's very rare. And if your skin doesn't break, there's no chance.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from anal sex?

Answer: HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. Yes, and either partner can get it! And while condoms work to protect you if they stay in place, they're more likely to break during this kind of sex. Again, effective antretroviral therapy in the HIV-infected partner will reduce the chances of passing HIV. However, condoms should be used to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from eating food made by a person with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Answer: HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. Remember, HIV isn't in saliva, and it dies quickly once it's outside the body. The virus can't survive the cooking process or your stomach acid. Passing HIV through eating has happened only in rare cases, when children ate food that was already chewed by someone with the virus.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from touching an open wound on someone who has human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Answer: HIV isn't spread through saliva. Body fluids like blood can pass through broken skin, wounds, or mucous membranes. But it's very rare.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from mosquitoes or ticks?

Answer: You can only get it when certain fluids from someone who's infected get into your body. HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from someone's cough or sneeze?

Answer: HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. No, the virus doesn't travel through air.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from oral sex?

Answer: HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. You might, but it's not nearly as likely as when you have anal or vaginal sex. Still, it can happen. The person who ends up with semen or vaginal fluid in their mouth is at greater risk. Again, use a condom, latex barrier, or dental dam.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from a tattoo or a body piercing?

Answer: HIV isn't spread through saliva. In theory, yes, if the needles were used on someone with HIV before you and then not sterilized. But the CDC says no cases have been reported of someone getting the virus this way.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from kissing?

Answer: HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. It's possible, but it hardly ever happens. HIV isn't spread through saliva. And it would still have to get through your skin or into you somehow.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from sharing needles?

Answer: You can only get it when certain fluids from someone who's infected get into your body. No, the virus doesn't travel through air. Any of the supplies for preparing drugs for injection -- syringes, bottle caps, spoons, or containers -- could have the virus if someone with HIV used it first.


Question: Can a pregnant woman infect her baby with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Answer: HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. A woman infected with HIV can pass the virus to her child during pregnancy or while she's giving birth, or though her breast milk. The chances are greatly reduced, however if the mother is taking effective HIV drugs (antiretroviral therapy) throughout her pregnancy, labor, and delivery.


Question: Can I get human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) from a toilet seat, water fountain, or drinking glasses?

Answer: You can only get it when certain fluids from someone who's infected get into your body. HIV is only spread through specific body fluids: blood, semen, pre-seminal fluid (pre-cum), vaginal and rectal fluid, and breast milk. First, there's not likely to be the right kind of body fluid on public surfaces. And if there were, the virus would probably die before you got to it; it can't live long outside a body. And it would still have to get through your skin or into you somehow. Sharing dishes, glasses, and eating utensils is safe. Remember, HIV isn't in saliva, and it dies quickly once it's outside the body.


Question: How painful is herpes simplex?

Answer: Some people experience very mild genital herpes symptoms or no symptoms at all. Frequently, people infected with the virus don't even know they have it. However, when it causes symptoms, it can be described as extremely painful. This is especially true for the first outbreak, which is often the worst. Outbreaks are described as aches or pains in or around the genital area or burning, pain, or difficulty urinating. Some people experience discharge from the vagina or penis. Oral herpes lesions (cold sores) usually cause tingling and burning just prior to the breakout of the blisters. The blisters themselves can also be painful.


Question: How is herpes simplex diagnosed?

Answer: Often, the appearance of herpes simplex virus is typical and no testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis. If a health care provider is uncertain, herpes simplex can be diagnosed with lab tests, including DNA -- or PCR -- tests and virus cultures.


Question: What are the symptoms of herpes simplex virus?

Answer: For many people with the herpes virus, which can go through periods of being dormant, attacks (or outbreaks) can be brought on by the following conditions: General illness (from mild illnesses to serious conditions) Fatigue Physical or emotional stress Immunosuppression due to AIDS or such medications as chemotherapy or steroids Trauma to the affected area, including sexual activity Menstruation Symptoms of herpes simplex virus typically appear as a blister or as multiple blisters on or around affected areas -- usually the mouth, genitals, or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender sores.


Question: How are herpes simplex viruses categorized?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Herpes simplex viruses -- more commonly known as herpes -- are categorized into two types: herpes type 1 ( HSV-1, or oral herpes) and herpes type 2 ( HSV-2, or genital herpes). Most commonly, herpes type 1 causes sores around the mouth and lips (sometimes called fever blisters or cold sores). HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but most cases of genital herpes are caused by herpes type 2. In HSV-2, the infected person may have sores around the genitals or rectum. Although HSV-2 sores may occur in other locations, these sores usually are found below the waist.


Question: What conditions can lead to attacks of the herpes simplex virus?

Answer: For many people with the herpes virus, which can go through periods of being dormant, attacks (or outbreaks) can be brought on by the following conditions: General illness (from mild illnesses to serious conditions) Fatigue Physical or emotional stress Immunosuppression due to AIDS or such medications as chemotherapy or steroids Trauma to the affected area, including sexual activity Menstruation Symptoms of herpes simplex virus typically appear as a blister or as multiple blisters on or around affected areas -- usually the mouth, genitals, or rectum.


Question: Can herpes be cured?

Answer: There is no cure for herpes simplex. Once a person has the virus, it remains in the body. The virus lies inactive in the nerve cells until something triggers it to become active again.


Question: How is herpes simplex treated?

Answer: Medication can decrease the pain related to an outbreak and can shorten healing time. They can also decrease the total number of outbreaks. Drugs including Famvir, Zovirax, and Valtrex are among the drugs used to treat the symptoms of herpes. Warm baths may relieve the pain associated with genital sores. There is no cure for herpes simplex.


Question: What causes herpes infections and outbreaks?

Answer: HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but most cases of genital herpes are caused by herpes type 2. Pregnant women with genital herpes should talk to their doctor, as genital herpes can be passed on to the baby during childbirth. For many people with the herpes virus, which can go through periods of being dormant, attacks (or outbreaks) can be brought on by the following conditions: General illness (from mild illnesses to serious conditions) Fatigue Physical or emotional stress Immunosuppression due to AIDS or such medications as chemotherapy or steroids Trauma to the affected area, including sexual activity Menstruation Symptoms of herpes simplex virus typically appear as a blister or as multiple blisters on or around affected areas -- usually the mouth, genitals, or rectum. Frequently, people infected with the virus don't even know they have it.


Question: How can lead get into dust?

Answer: Although lead-based paint hasn't been sold since 1978, plenty of older homes still have it. Tiny fragments of lead paint can float through the air and accumulate on surfaces throughout your house. Babies can pick them up on their hands and get them into their mouths. They can also breathe them in directly. Contrary to what you might think, it doesn't take much. Even at very low levels of exposure, lead dust can cause harm.


Question: How many U.S. kids have blood levels of lead that are too high?

Answer: According to the Centers of Disease Control, more than half a million children ages 1-5 in the U. S. have blood lead levels high enough to damage their health. Even with treatment, lead poisoning can permanently affect a child's development. Because their bodies are small and growing, babies and young children are at greatest risk.


Question: What are challenges that come with treating elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by medications?

Answer: These include: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs ( DMARDs) Biologic drugs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) Corticosteroids You might have more challenges with your medication, especially if you take drugs for other health conditions. This boosts your chances of a bad reaction to the medicine. You may also have a harder time with drug side effects. NSAIDs increase your chances of heart, brain, gut, and kidney problems. Corticosteroids up the odds of glaucoma, osteoporosis, and other health problems.


Question: What symptoms of elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA) might be a different condition?

Answer: Elderly-onset RA also has symptoms that overlap with other diseases, like: Polymyalgia rheumatica ( PMR) Late-onset psoriatic arthritis Crystal arthritis Viral arthritis Osteoarthritis Rotator cuff tendinitis Hypothyroidism Parkinson's disease It may be hardest to tell elderly-onset RA from PMR, which has similar aches and test results (like elevated CRP and ESR levels).


Question: Does exercise help if you have elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Your doctor has to figure out if it's really late-onset or if you've had the disease for years.


Question: What is the goal of treatment for elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Your treatment goal is remission, the lowest possible level of disease activity. This can prevent joint damage and can keep your joints working like they should.


Question: What should I know about medications for elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: You can get rheumatoid arthritis ( RA) at any age, but it's most likely to show up between ages 30 and 50. When it starts between ages 60 and 65, it's called elderly-onset RA or late-onset RA. Your doctor will probably give you the same drugs used to treat early-onset RA. These include: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs ( DMARDs) Biologic drugs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) Corticosteroids You might have more challenges with your medication, especially if you take drugs for other health conditions. This boosts your chances of a bad reaction to the medicine. You may also have a harder time with drug side effects. NSAIDs increase your chances of heart, brain, gut, and kidney problems. Corticosteroids up the odds of glaucoma, osteoporosis, and other health problems.


Question: What are good exercises to do if I have elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: You can get rheumatoid arthritis ( RA) at any age, but it's most likely to show up between ages 30 and 50. When it starts between ages 60 and 65, it's called elderly-onset RA or late-onset RA. Your doctor has to figure out if it's really late-onset or if you've had the disease for years.


Question: Can you have elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis?

Answer: You may also have a harder time with drug side effects. Even if you take RA drugs, they may not do enough to reduce your pain and keep your joints working.


Question: What conditions have similar symptoms as for elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: You can get rheumatoid arthritis ( RA) at any age, but it's most likely to show up between ages 30 and 50. When it starts between ages 60 and 65, it's called elderly-onset RA or late-onset RA. Look out for: Fever Muscle pain (myalgia) Weight loss Anemia Your tab tests may show: Elevated CRP ( C-reactive protein) Elevated ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) It can be hard to spot this condition. Your doctor has to figure out if it's really late-onset or if you've had the disease for years. Elderly-onset RA also has symptoms that overlap with other diseases, like: Polymyalgia rheumatica ( PMR) Late-onset psoriatic arthritis Crystal arthritis Viral arthritis Osteoarthritis Rotator cuff tendinitis Hypothyroidism Parkinson's disease It may be hardest to tell elderly-onset RA from PMR, which has similar aches and test results (like elevated CRP and ESR levels).


Question: What should you know about rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and the elderly?

Answer: You can get rheumatoid arthritis ( RA) at any age, but it's most likely to show up between ages 30 and 50. When it starts between ages 60 and 65, it's called elderly-onset RA or late-onset RA. You may hear this called acute onset. If you get RA when you're younger, symptoms tend to show up over time. Elderly-onset RA usually strikes large joints, like shoulders. With younger people, the disease mostly starts in small joints, like your fingers and toes. Rheumatoid factor ( RF) is less common in elderly-onset RA. Rheumatoid factor is a protein. If your blood tests show you have it, those proteins may attack healthy tissues. Around 80% of people with early-onset RA have RF. Overall, elderly-onset RA takes less of a toll. It tends to be less severe. The exception is if you have RF. Your RA will probably be more aggressive RA than someone who doesn't have RF. Your treatment goal is remission, the lowest possible level of disease activity.


Question: How is elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated?

Answer: You can get rheumatoid arthritis ( RA) at any age, but it's most likely to show up between ages 30 and 50. When it starts between ages 60 and 65, it's called elderly-onset RA or late-onset RA. Your treatment goal is remission, the lowest possible level of disease activity. This can prevent joint damage and can keep your joints working like they should. Your doctor will probably give you the same drugs used to treat early-onset RA. These include: Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs ( DMARDs) Biologic drugs Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) Corticosteroids You might have more challenges with your medication, especially if you take drugs for other health conditions.


Question: What can help you remove germs from your kitchen sponge?

Answer: Washing a sponge in the dishwasher also isn't enough to kill germs unless you have an extremely high-heat germicide cycle. As an alternative, you can use paper towels or a clean cloth; be sure to use the cloth only once and then toss it in the laundry. If you do use sponges, you can soak them between cleanings in a solution of no more than 1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water, or vinegar and water. Soak them in the bleach solution for about 5 minutes or in the vinegar solution for 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly and let air dry.


Question: What can you do to help remove germs in your dishwasher?

Answer: Do you see a black fungus on the seal around your dishwasher door or inside your dishwasher? It may be Exophiala dermatitidis, a fungus that likes high heat and is resistant to most detergents. Scrub it away with a paste of vinegar and baking soda. While you're in the dishwasher, pour a couple of cups of vinegar in the bottom and run a cycle to kill other tough germs.


Question: What can help you remove germs from your kitchen cutting board?

Answer: Disinfect cutting boards by soaking them in straight vinegar or a bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of bleach to 1 gallon of water for about 30 minutes. Then rinse thoroughly with hot, soapy water or put them in the dishwasher. Using the dishwasher alone isn't enough to sanitize them.


Question: What can help you remove germs from your kitchen counter?

Answer: Spraying a 10% vinegar solution on counters will wipe out lots of kitchen counter germs at once. Keep the surface wet for 30 to 60 seconds, then wipe. Keep purses, briefcases, lunchboxes, keys, mail, and electronic devices like remote controls off countertops because they're teeming with germs.


Question: What can help you remove germs in your refrigerator?

Answer: Wash the refrigerator door handle frequently with a bleach solution. It's not enough to just replace the trash bag. Wipe cabinet and refrigerator door handles at least once a week with the bleach solution to kill microorganisms. Get rid of mold in the refrigerator and dust on the countertops, for example.


Question: What happens when you get ureteroscopy to treat kidney stones?

Answer: Your doctor inserts a thin, flexible scope through your urethra, bladder and then into your ureter to reach the stone. If the stone is small, she can use a basket to remove it. If the stone is larger, a laser passed through the scope can break it up.


Question: What types of prescription drugs can help with kidney stones?

Answer: Prescription drugs can help: Calcium channel blockers and alpha-blockers: These relax your ureter, the tube through which pee passes from your kidney to your bladder. A wider ureter will help the stone move more quickly. Potassium citrate or sodium citrate: Can help keep kidney stones created by uric acid from forming.


Question: What are percutaneous nephrolithotomy or percutaneous nephrolithotripsy to help treat kidney stones?

Answer: Percutaneous nephrolithotomy or percutaneous nephrolithotripsy. These similar surgical procedures are options if your stone is large or if other procedures fail to break them down enough. Your doctor uses a thin tube inserted through your skin to reach the stone and them removes (nephrolithotomy) or breaks (nephrolithotripsy) it. You will be given drugs so you won't be awake or feel pain. You'll likely have to stay in the hospital for 1-2 days.


Question: What is open surgery for kidney stones?

Answer: Open surgery: This might be an option if your stone is very oversized or your doctor can't take it out with other treatments. You'll be sedated and not awake. Your surgeon cuts through your side to reach the kidney, then takes the stone out through the opening. You may need to stay in the hospital for a few days. It can take 4-6 weeks for you to fully recover. Your surgeon usually will ask a lab to identify the type of stone, so you might be able to take meds to avoid them in the future.


Question: Are kidney stones painful?

Answer: Your treatment depends on where and how big your stone is and what symptoms you have. Your doctor may have to break it up or remove it. Ask your doctor: How long should I wait for my stone to pass on its own?


Question: Are antidepressants used to treat bipolar depression?

Answer: While antidepressants are effective treatment for people with major depressive (unipolar) disorder, they are not always as effective for bipolar depression, and generally should not be given alone (monotherapy) in people with bipolar I disorder. When antidepressants are given alone to someone with bipolar disorder, there's a risk the drug might ignite a manic episode in some patients.


Question: Is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) a viable treatment for bipolar depression?

Answer: Guidelines from the American Psychiatric Association suggest that ECT is an appropriate and sometimes preferred treatment for depressed bipolar patients who have psychotic symptoms or a very high risk for suicidal behavior. In addition, ECT may benefit women who are pregnant and suffer with severe bipolar depression or mania.


Question: How do the CNS depressants help with bipolar disorder depression?

Answer: CNS depressants are commonly used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders and may be an effective alternative or adjunctive therapy in some bipolar patients with acute mania. Some commonly used benzodiazepines include clonazepam ( Klonopin), lorazepam ( Ativan), alprazolam ( Xanax), and diazepam ( Valium). These drugs all can be addictive and can cause sluggish thinking. They generally should be used only to treat agitation or sleep problems during the acute phase of the illness and not as long-term medications. They typically should be tapered off rather than stopped abruptly, in order to minimize the risk of drug withdrawal.


Question: Can psychotherapy  help with bipolar depression?

Answer: In addition, ECT may benefit women who are pregnant and suffer with severe bipolar depression or mania. Along with medications for bipolar depression, patients may benefit from ongoing psychotherapy. This one-on-one therapy combines interpersonal psychotherapy with behavioral techniques to help patients learn how to more effectively manage interpersonal problems, stay on their medications, and normalize their lifestyle habits. The STEP- BD study mentioned earlier found that in addition to medications, adding a structured psychotherapy -- such as cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal/social rhythm therapy, or family-focused therapy -- can speed up treatment response in bipolar depression by as much as 150%.


Question: Can breast cancer treatment cause changes in weight?

Answer: Weight loss might be due to nausea, vomiting, or appetite changes. Weight gain is sometimes brought on by chemotherapy, or hormone therapy, which can both cause early menopause. But some other medications you may take can also cause you to put on extra pounds, as can changes in your diet and being less active.


Question: When should I call 911 for an insulin reaction?

Answer: A severe reaction A seizure A loss of consciousness For a severe reaction: While waiting for emergency help, inject glucagon if you are trained to do so.


Question: If I start to feel symptoms of a mild or moderate insulin reaction, what should I do?

Answer: For moderate to mild symptoms: Give the person a high-sugar food such as: 3 to 4 glucose tablets 1/3 to 1/2 tube of glucose in gel form 1/2 cup orange juice 1/3 cup apple juice 1/4 to 1/3 cup raisins 2 large or 6 small sugar cubes in water 4 oz. to 6 oz. of regular soda, not diet 1 tablespoon of molasses, honey, or corn syrup 5 hard candies After 15 minutes, test blood sugar, if possible. If symptoms persist or blood sugar reading is below 70 mg/d L, give another high-sugar food. If the person's next meal is more than 30 minutes away, give the person a small snack, such as 1/2 sandwich, 1 oz. cheese with 4 to 6 crackers, or 1 tablespoon peanut butter with 4 to 6 crackers. If the person still doesn't feel better, go to a hospital emergency room or call 911. If you go to the hospital, doctors may give sugar intravenously.


Question: What should I do in the case of a severe insulin reaction?

Answer: A severe reaction A seizure A loss of consciousness For a severe reaction: While waiting for emergency help, inject glucagon if you are trained to do so.


Question: When should you try a different opioid to avoid constipation?

Answer: These meds work by blocking the effects that the drugs have on your gut: Lubiprostone ( Amitzia), a pill Methylnaltrexone ( Relistor), a shot Naldemedine ( Symproic), a pill Naloxegol ( Movantik), a pill All opioids can cause constipation, but some may have less of an effect than others. Some studies have found that fentanyl may cause less constipation than morphine. Tapentadol may also be easier on your intestines than oxycodone. Methadone may also be less constipating. Talk to your doctor about which drugs will give you the right balance of pain relief and fewer side effects.


Question: What neurotransmitters play a role in bipolar disorder?

Answer: Disruption of circuits that communicate using dopamine in other brain areas appears connected to psychosis and schizophrenia, a severe mental disorder characterized by distortions in reality and illogical thought patterns and behaviors. The brain chemical serotonin is connected to many body functions such as sleep, wakefulness, eating, sexual activity, impulsivity, learning, and memory. Researchers believe that abnormal functioning of brain circuits that involve serotonin as a chemical messenger contribute to mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder).


Question: Can lack of sleep cause bipolar disorder?

Answer: Some findings show that people with bipolar disorder have a genetic predisposition to sleep-wake cycle problems that may trigger symptoms of depression and mania. The problem for those with bipolar disorder, however, is that sleep loss may lead to a mood episode such as mania (elation) in some patients. Worrying about losing sleep can increase anxiety, thus worsening the bipolar mood disorder altogether. Once a sleep-deprived person with bipolar disorder goes into the manic state, the need for sleep decreases even more.


Question: How is dysthymia diagnosed?

Answer: A mental health specialist generally makes the diagnosis based on the person's symptoms. In the case of dysthymia, these symptoms will have lasted for a longer period of time and be less severe than in patients with major depression. With dysthymia, your doctor will want to make sure that the symptoms are not a result of a physical condition, such as hypothyroidism. If you are depressed and have had depressive symptoms for more than two weeks, see your doctor or a psychiatrist. Your provider will perform a thorough medical evaluation, paying particular attention to your personal and family psychiatric history. There is no blood, X-ray or other laboratory test that can be used to diagnose dysthymia.


Question: What are the signs and symptoms of dysthymia?

Answer: Dysthymia, sometimes referred to as mild, chronic depression, is less severe and has fewer symptoms than major depression. With dysthymia, the depression symptoms can linger for a long period of time, often two years or longer.


Question: Can dysthymia worsen?

Answer: It's not uncommon for a person with dysthymia to also experience an episode ofmajor depression at the same time. This is called double depression. That's why it's so important to seek an early and accurate medical diagnosis. Your doctor can then recommend the most effective treatment to help you feel yourself again.


Question: What else can I do to feel better if I have dysthymia?

Answer: Getting an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment is a major step in feeling better with chronic depression. In addition, ask your doctor about the benefits of healthy lifestyle habits such as eating a well-balanced diet, getting regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and being with close friends and family members for strong social support. These positive habits are also important in improving mood and well-being.


Question: How do antidepressants help ease dysthymia?

Answer: To treat dysthymia, doctors may use psychotherapy (talk therapy), medications such as antidepressants, or a combination of these therapies. Your doctor will assess your physical and mental health, including any other medical condition, and then find the antidepressant that is most effective with the least side effects. Antidepressants may take several weeks to work fully. They should be taken for at least six to nine months after an episode of chronic depression. In addition, it sometimes may take several weeks to safely discontinue an antidepressant, so let your doctor guide you if you choose to stop the drug. Sometimes antidepressants have uncomfortable side effects. That's why you have to work closely with your doctor to find the antidepressant that gives you the most benefit with the least side effects.


Question: What is dysthymia?

Answer: With dysthymia, the depression symptoms can linger for a long period of time, often two years or longer. Those who suffer from dysthymia can also experience periods of major depression--sometimes called "double depression." In modern diagnostic classification systems, dysthymia and chronic depression are now both referred to as âpersistent depressive disorders. In the case of dysthymia, these symptoms will have lasted for a longer period of time and be less severe than in patients with major depression.


Question: What does a complete blood count for polycythemia vera measure?

Answer: Your doctor may order any of these tests: Complete blood count Blood smear Erythropoietin level Complete blood count: The complete blood count ( CBC) is often the test first that shows you might have PV. It measures: Hemoglobin. This is a protein that helps your red blood cells carry oxygen throughout your body. Hematocrit. To understand hematocrit, think of your blood as colored marbles in a jar of water. Red marbles are your red blood cells. Hematocrit is a number. It tells you how much room the red marbles take up in that jar -- or how much room your red blood cells take up in your blood. Number of blood cells. You have three kinds of blood cells: red, white, and platelets. The CBC counts how many of each you have. High numbers for hemoglobin, hematocrit, or blood cell count can all be signs of PV.


Question: What blood tests will I need if I am being tested for polycythemia vera?

Answer: Blood tests are common when checking for PV. Even if you've already had one, you may need another. Your doctor may order any of these tests: Complete blood count Blood smear Erythropoietin level Complete blood count: The complete blood count ( CBC) is often the test first that shows you might have PV.


Question: How do I get tested for polycythemia vera?

Answer: If your doctor thinks you have PV, you'll start with a physical exam. Then you may need: Blood tests A bone marrow test A genetic test You may not get all of these tests, but you're likely to get some of them. This helps you know for sure that you have PV and not a similar blood disease. Your doctor will probably send to you a hematologist -- a doctor who treats blood diseases.


Question: What is a blood smear for polycythemia vera?

Answer: Blood smear: Like the CBC, a blood smear gives a blood cell count. It also shows the shape of your blood cells. This helps your doctor know if you have PV and how advanced it might be.


Question: What questions should I ask if I am being tested for polycythemia vera?

Answer: You may want to write down any questions you have so you remember them. For example, you could ask: What's the cause of my condition? What tests do I need? When will I find out about my results? How I can learn more about PV?


Question: How long does a complete blood count for polycythemia vera take?

Answer: The CBC takes only a few minutes. Your doctor puts a thin needle into your arm, usually near your elbow, and draws blood. You may have results in 1-2 days, but it can take longer.


Question: What is a gene test for polycythemia vera and how long does it take?

Answer: Most people with PV have a problem in a gene called JAK2. Your doctor can use a blood sample or a bone marrow sample from a biopsy to check your JAK2 gene. You can get results in 4-6 days, but your lab may take longer.


Question: What is erythropoietin level test for polycythemia vera?

Answer: Erythropoietin level: Erythropoietin ( EPO) is a hormone that tells your bone marrow to make new blood cells. A very low level can be another sign of PV.


Question: How long does a blood smear for polycythemia vera take?

Answer: The blood smear is a quick test. Your doctor may draw blood from your arm or by pricking your finger. You usually get the results in 1-2 days.


Question: What happens if my tests show that I have polycythemia vera?

Answer: If tests show that you have PV, your doctor can help you choose the best treatment for you and closely follow your health in the years to come to make sure you don't have complications. Most people with PV can live a normal life. With the right care, you can limit your symptoms and, in some cases, make them go away completely.


Question: How does a complete blood count show polycythemia vera?

Answer: High numbers for hemoglobin, hematocrit, or blood cell count can all be signs of PV.


Question: How long do bone marrow tests for polycythemia vera take?

Answer: There are two kinds of bone marrow tests: Aspiration uses a liquid bone marrow sample Biopsy uses a solid bone marrow sample Both tests show if your bone marrow is making too many blood cells. You may get both tests done at the same time. Your doctor first numbs an area around either your breastbone or your pelvic bone. You can get results in 3-4 days, but it may take longer.


Question: What bisphosphonate drugs can treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: Other hormonal treatments include antiandrogens, estrogen- and progesterone-type drugs and cortisone derivatives.


Question: How can external beam radiation therapy treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: Plus, radiation therapy directed at the bone can reduce pain caused by bone metastases.


Question: How does MRI scanning treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: A newer noninvasive procedure uses MRI scanning to focus the energy from ultrasound in order to destroy nerve endings in the bone around the tumor. This can provide relief from bone pain with a low risk of complications.


Question: What is advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: Prostate cancer is defined as ''advanced'' when it spreads outside the prostate gland. It may spread to nearby tissues, lymph nodes, bones, or other parts of the body. When it is spread beyond the tissues directly adjacent to the prostate gland, it is called metastatic prostate cancer.


Question: How does Xofigo treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: One drug, Xofigo ( Radium -223), is approved for use in men who have advanced prostate cancer that has spread only to the bones. Candidates should have also received androgen deprivation therapy. Xofigo, given by injection once a month, works by binding to minerals within bones to deliver radiation directly to bone tumors. A study of 809 men showed that those taking Xofigo lived an average of 3 months longer than those taking a placebo.


Question: How does Provenge treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: If hormone therapy ultimately fails to slow the growth of the cancer, the next step may be a prostate cancer "vaccine" called Provenge (sipuleucel- T). Most men who take Provenge survive at least 2 years after starting the treatment. Provenge isn't your everyday vaccine. It's a therapy created by taking immune cells from a patient, genetically engineering them to fight prostate cancer, and then putting them back into the patient. It's used for men with few or no symptoms and when advanced prostate cancer no longer responds to hormone therapy.


Question: How does androgen deprivation therapy treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: A look at treatments: Most prostate cancer grows in response to male hormones (androgens) in the body, such as testosterone. That's why one of the first treatments for advanced prostate cancer is to decrease these hormone levels (called androgen deprivation therapy). There are several medications that can do this, including Lupron (leuprolide), Trelstar (triptorelin), or Zoladex (goserelin). These drugs work to reduce testosterone levels to those seen in castrated patients.


Question: How are patients with advanced prostate cancer able to enroll in clinical trials?

Answer: Clinical trials test the safety and effectiveness of these new methods and treatments. There are risks and limitations in every clinical trial. The National Institutes of Health lists clinical trials at www.clinicaltrials.gov.


Question: When do you need medical attention for dizziness?

Answer: Get medical attention immediately if you're dizzy and you faint, fall, or can't walk or have any of the following: Chest pain Different or really bad headache Head injury High fever Irregular heart rate Seizures Shortness of breath Stiff neck Sudden change in speech, vision, or hearing Vomiting Weakness or numbness in your face Weakness in your leg or arm Does it feel like you're spinning or the room is moving around you?


Question: How can low blood sugar cause dizziness?

Answer: You can get dizzy if it drops too low. That also can cause hunger, shakiness, sweating, and confusion. Some people without diabetes also have trouble with low blood sugar, but that's rare. A quick fix is to eat or drink something with sugar, like juice or a hard candy.


Question: What medications can cause dizziness as a side effect?

Answer: Several drugs list dizziness as a possible side effect. Check with your doctor if you take: Antibiotics, including gentamicin and streptomycin Anti-depressants Anti-seizure medications Blood pressure medicine Sedatives Many people don't drink enough fluids to replace the liquid they lose every day when they sweat, breathe, and pee.


Question: How can an infection cause dizziness?

Answer: This is called vestibular neuritis or labyrinthitis, and it's caused by an infection. Usually, a virus is to blame. But bacteria from a middle ear infection or meningitis can make their way into your inner ear as well. In this case, dizziness usually comes on suddenly. Your ears may ring, and it may be hard to hear. You also may be nauseated and have a fever and ear pain. Symptoms can last several weeks. If it's caused by a virus and can't be treated with antibiotics, medication can help make you feel better as the infection runs its course. That also can cause hunger, shakiness, sweating, and confusion.


Question: Why am I dizzy?

Answer: When a part of that system is off, you can feel dizzy. It can be a sign of something serious, and it can be dangerous if it makes you fall. Your doctor will look at all your symptoms and overall health to figure out what's going on and how to treat it. Inflammation of the nerves in your ears also can cause vertigo.


Question: How can Meniere's disease cause dizziness?

Answer: That's a classic sign of a particular type of dizziness called vertigo. You may feel fullness or pressure in one ear. Other symptoms include ringing in your ears, hearing loss, nausea, and anxiety. You may feel exhausted after the attack passes. People with Meniere's disease have too much fluid in their inner ear. Doctors don't know what causes it, and there's no cure for it. It's usually treated with diet changes (a low-salt diet) and medicine to control the dizziness.


Question: What are the risks of heart bypass surgery?

Answer: Some of the possible ones include: Fever Heart attack Infection and bleeding at the incision Memory loss Pain Reactions to anesthesia Stroke Once you've recovered, your symptoms of angina will be gone or much better.


Question: What is heart bypass surgery like?

Answer: A surgeon takes blood vessels from another part of your body to go around, or bypass, a blocked artery. The result is that more blood and oxygen can flow to your heart again.


Question: What is cholesterol ratio and what should yours be?

Answer: To find your cholesterol ratio, you divide your total cholesterol number by your HDL, or good, cholesterol number. For example, if your total cholesterol number is 200 and your good cholesterol is 50, your total cholesterol ratio is 4:1. Cholesterol ratio may be used as a monitoring tool by some health care specialists. However, the AHA suggests that doctors use LDLcholesterol with patients rather than cholesterol ratio. That's because the total cholesterol number is considered a better tool for guiding the doctor in planning the best patient care and helping patients understand their health risks. Discuss with your doctor what the best numbers to monitor for you are.


Question: What is cholesterol?

Answer: Cholesterol performs important functions in your body. It aids in tissue and hormone formation. It protects your nerves. It helps with digestion. In fact, cholesterol helps form the structure of every cell in your body. This waxy, fat-like substance is produced naturally -- mainly in our liver. But it also comes from the food we eat -- like eggs, fatty meats, and cheese.


Question: What tests are used to diagnose schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: There are no laboratory tests to specifically diagnose schizoaffective disorder. So doctors rely on your medical history and your answers to certain questions.


Question: What are symptoms of depression in schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: In order to get diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, you must have: Periods of uninterrupted illness An episode of mania, major depression, or a mix of both Symptoms of schizophrenia At least two periods of psychotic symptoms, each lasting 2 weeks.


Question: What is the definition of bipolar disorder?

Answer: Schizoaffective disorder has the features of schizophrenia, like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, along with those of a mood disorder, like mania and depression.


Question: What is the definition of schizophrenia?

Answer: Brain chemistry and structure: If you have schizophrenia and mood disorders, you might have problems with brain circuits that manage mood and thinking.


Question: How can you diagnose someone with schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: In order to get diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder, you must have: Periods of uninterrupted illness An episode of mania, major depression, or a mix of both Symptoms of schizophrenia At least two periods of psychotic symptoms, each lasting 2 weeks. One of the episodes must happen without depressive or manic symptoms.


Question: When do you need hospitalization for schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: Hospitalization: Psychotic episodes may require a hospital stay, especially if you're suicidal or threaten to hurt others.


Question: How does skills training treat schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: Skills training: This generally focuses on work and social skills, grooming and self-care, and other day-to-day activities, including money and home management.


Question: What is the definition of depression?

Answer: People who have it often have problems with substance use as well.


Question: How does psychotherapy treat schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: Psychotherapy: The goal of this type of counseling is to help you learn about your illness, set goals, and manage everyday problems related to the disorder. Family therapy can help families get better at relating to and helping a loved one who has schizoaffective disorder.


Question: What causes schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: Scientists don't know for sure if schizoaffective disorder is related mainly to schizophrenia or a mood disorder. But it's usually viewed and treated as a combination of both conditions.


Question: Can you prevent schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: But if you're diagnosed and start treatment ASAP, it can help you avoid or ease frequent relapses and hospitalizations, and help cut the disruptions in your life, family, and friendships.


Question: What can cause schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: Trouble at work, school, or in social settings Scientists don't know the exact cause. Risk factors for schizoaffective disorder include: Genetics: You may inherit a tendency to get features linked to schizoaffective disorder from your parents. Brain chemistry and structure: If you have schizophrenia and mood disorders, you might have problems with brain circuits that manage mood and thinking. Schizophrenia is also tied to lower levels of dopamine, a brain chemical that also helps manage these tasks. Environment: Some scientists think things like viral infections or highly stressful situations could play a part in getting schizoaffective disorder if you're at risk for it. How that happens isn't clear.


Question: What are symptoms of schizophrenia in schizoaffective disorder?

Answer: Schizoaffective disorder has the features of schizophrenia, like hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking, along with those of a mood disorder, like mania and depression.


Question: How is schizoaffective disorder often misdiagnosed?

Answer: Because schizoaffective disorder combines symptoms that reflect two mental illnesses, it's easily confused with other psychotic or mood disorders. Some doctors may diagnose schizophrenia. Others may think it's a mood disorder. As a result, it's hard to know how many people actually have schizoaffective disorder. It's probably less common than either schizophrenia or mood disorders alone.


Question: When does schizoaffective disorder happen?

Answer: It's equally likely to affect men and women, but men usually get it at a younger age. It seems to happen slightly more often in women than in men.


Question: What will your doctor recommend to help you cope with your symptoms of ataxia?

Answer: In order to help you cope with your symptoms, your doctor may recommend: Counseling Physical or occupational therapy Speech therapy Support groups Your doctor can also help you find tools so you can move around easier, such as a cane or a walker. There are also utensils to help you eat and speak more easily.


Question: What is idiopathic ataxia?

Answer: When you haven't inherited a mutated gene or had an illness or injury that could have caused your ataxia, it's called idiopathic ataxia. Your doctor will diagnose you with idiopathic ataxia if he can't find a medical reason for your ataxia symptoms. The most common idiopathic ataxia is called multiple system atrophy, or MSA. Doctors haven't pinned down possible causes for this group of ataxias. They may come from a combination of environmental factors and genetic causes.


Question: What is vestibular ataxia?

Answer: Symptoms of sensory ataxia include: Difficulty touching your finger to your nose with closed eyes Inability to sense vibrations Trouble walking in dim light Walking with a âheavy step,â or stomping when you walk Vestibular ataxia affects your vestibular system. This system is made up of your inner ear and ear canals, which contain fluid. They sense the movements of your head and help with your balance and spatial orientation.


Question: How many people in the United States are affected by ataxia?

Answer: When the nerves in your vestibular system wear away, you can have the following problems: Blurred vision and other eye issues Nausea and vomiting Problems standing and sitting Staggering when you walk Trouble walking in a straight line Vertigo, or dizziness Around 150,000 people in the U. S. deal with some form of ataxia. There are different causes for it. Some are genetic, some are acquired, like injuries, and some have no known clear cause.


Question: What are symptoms of sensory ataxia?

Answer: Symptoms of sensory ataxia include: Difficulty touching your finger to your nose with closed eyes Inability to sense vibrations Trouble walking in dim light Walking with a âheavy step,â or stomping when you walk Vestibular ataxia affects your vestibular system.


Question: What is genetic ataxia?

Answer: You can inherit a certain mutated, or changed, gene from one or both of your parents that causes ataxia. Or you may inherit a mutated gene that causes a disorder with ataxia as a symptom.


Question: What are symptoms of vestibular ataxia?

Answer: When the nerves in your vestibular system wear away, you can have the following problems: Blurred vision and other eye issues Nausea and vomiting Problems standing and sitting Staggering when you walk Trouble walking in a straight line Vertigo, or dizziness Around 150,000 people in the U. S. deal with some form of ataxia.


Question: How is ataxia diagnosed?

Answer: He'll check your balance and coordination, hearing, vision, reflexes, and memory. You'll also need a neurological exam, which might include an MRI or CT scan. These look at the structure of your brain for problems. For some cases, your doctor may recommend tests of your spinal fluid. To do this, he'll insert a needle into your lower back and draw out the fluid to send it to a lab for testing. To rule out genetic forms of ataxia, you may need genetic testing.


Question: What are causes of acquired ataxia?

Answer: Some of the causes of acquired ataxia could include: Brain tumors Blood loss in the brain Cerebral palsy Chickenpox Hydrocephalus, or too much fluid buildup in the brain Head trauma Multiple sclerosis Reactions to certain cancers Vitamin E or B12 deficiency You can also get ataxia if you have a reaction to certain medications, from alcohol or drug use, or from exposure to poison.


Question: What are treatments for ataxia?

Answer: The best treatment for your ataxia symptoms depends on the type you have. There is no specific treatment for ataxia itself. If your ataxia is a symptom of another disorder, your doctor will treat that disorder. If it's due to a cause that you can avoid, like lack of vitamins or exposure to poison, your doctor will help you address the problem causing the ataxia.


Question: What is acquired ataxia?

Answer: Acquired ataxia occurs when you have damage to your spinal cord or nerves. The damage might be from an injury or an illness.


Question: What is the use of nanomedicine in treating multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: In some cases, nanoparticles act as tiny cargo ships that carry medicine -- sometimes, to parts of the body drugs can't reach on their own. For example, they can cross the blood-brain barrier, a layer of cells that protect your brain from possible danger -- but that also keep helpful MS drugs from getting through. Attaching MS drugs to nanoparticles may solve this problem. That's because certain nanoparticles can interact with blood-brain barrier cells and get âswallowedâ by them. When the nanoparticle gets in, so does the drug it carries. Another type of nanoparticle doesn't even need to carry medicine. The material itself is a powerful antioxidant that crosses the blood-brain barrier. It's called a cerium oxide nanoparticle, and it helped relieve some MS symptoms in mice.


Question: What are recent findings and ongoing research on the root causes of MS?

Answer: Scientists are looking for ways to: Stop the disease from getting worse Restore lost function Prevent and cure MS Besides testing new treatments, scientists continue to explore the root causes of MS. Much of the research is still being done in animals, but recent findings and ongoing research include: Bone marrow stem cell transplants that would offer long-term benefits An epilepsy pill that slowed nerve damage A specific type of training that improved memory and brain activity (as seen on MRI scans). Changes were still in place after 6 months. An experimental therapy in mice helped their bodies make myelin, a substance that protects nerves. The treatment is a type of micro RNA, a small amount of genetic material. A large team of researchers is analyzing gut bacteria to find out what role it may play as MS gets worse. Researchers are studying children with MS to learn how their environment and genes make them more likely to get the disease. One early finding suggested low vitamin D levels were linked to MS relapses in kids with a specific gene.


Question: How does stem transplant work in treating multiple sclerosis?

Answer: You might hear your doctor call it: Stem cell transplant Bone marrow transplant HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplantation) How does it work? Doctors remove and store cells from your body that make blood. Then, you take chemotherapy drugs to wipe out your immune system. After that, your stem cells go back in your body. They travel to your bone marrow, where they make new blood cells, giving your immune system a fresh start. Studies show that bone marrow stem cell transplants might help some people with MS. However, the treatment is still experimental.


Question: What do I need to know about stem cells transplant in treating multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: These are the only cells in your body with the power to create new types of cells. For example, your blood cells, brain cells, heart muscle, and bone all come from stem cells. People who need new, healthy cells to fight a disease like cancer often get bone marrow stem cell transplants. This procedure can help rebuild your immune system by producing new blood cells. You might hear your doctor call it: Stem cell transplant Bone marrow transplant HSCT (hematopoietic stem cell transplantation) How does it work?


Question: What do I need to know about multiple sclerosis (MS) research roundup?

Answer: New technologies and insights are speeding the pace of discovery. In fact, there are more MS treatments in development now than ever before. MS is a neurological disease that can cause extreme tiredness, vision changes, trouble moving, and other problems. Scientists are looking for ways to: Stop the disease from getting worse Restore lost function Prevent and cure MS Besides testing new treatments, scientists continue to explore the root causes of MS. Much of the research is still being done in animals, but recent findings and ongoing research include: Bone marrow stem cell transplants that would offer long-term benefits An epilepsy pill that slowed nerve damage A specific type of training that improved memory and brain activity (as seen on MRI scans). Nanomedicine research is still in the early stages.


Question: How is Giardiasis treated?

Answer: Many people get better without treatment. But if your symptoms last more than several weeks, or you're likely to spread the parasite, your doctor can give you medication. Metronidazole ( Flagyl), nitazoxanide ( Alinia), and tinidazole ( Tindamax) are among the drugs used to treat giardia infections.