Question: What can you do to slow osteopenia?

Answer: But even if you already have osteopenia, it's not too late for you to stop it from turning into osteoporosis with these strategies: Get enough calcium and vitamin D: This may be the most important thing you can do for your bones at any stage of life. Some foods, including orange juice, cereal, and bread, have added calcium and vitamin D. It's also a good idea to spend 10 to 15 minutes in the sun twice a week because this helps your body convert sunlight to vitamin D. If your doctor doesn't think you're getting enough calcium and vitamin D, he or she may suggest that you take a supplement. Weight lifting: You can do regular, weight-bearing exercises to prevent or slow osteopenia. Lifestyle changes: If you smoke, try to quit. Cut down on carbonated drinks and alcohol.


Question: Can you prevent osteopenia?

Answer: Problems in your diet, lack of exercise, and unhealthy habits can contribute to this condition. Watch out for: A lack of calcium or vitamin D Not enough exercise, especially strength training Smoking Too much alcohol Carbonated beverages Osteopenia usually doesn't have any symptoms. Talk with your doctor about an exercise plan that's right for you.


Question: Who gets osteopenia?

Answer: Osteopenia, if it happens at all, usually occurs after age 50. The exact age depends how strong your bones are when you're young. You're also more likely to get it if you're a woman. Calcium is the key to keeping bones healthy. Hormone changes that happen at menopause increase the chance for osteopenia for women, and men with lower testosterone levels have higher odds of getting it. People with this condition can damage their small intestine by eating foods with gluten in them.


Question: When do you need an MRI for knee pain?

Answer: This test can help your doctor see what might be causing your symptoms. MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. It's a type of scan that uses a magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. Unlike an X-ray, which takes pictures of your bones, a knee MRI lets your doctor see your bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and even some blood vessels. The test can show a range of problems, including: Damaged cartilage Torn tendons or ligaments Bone fractures Osteoarthritis Infections Tumors Your doctor may also order an MRI to see if you need knee surgery, or to see how well you're healing after surgery.


Question: What metal items do you need to take off before you get a knee MRI?

Answer: You should not wear metal during the scan. It can interfere with the machine's magnetic field. Be sure to remove any items with metal before the exam, such as: Jewelry Hairpins Zippers Body piercings Watches Hearing aids Pocketknives Eyeglasses If you have metal inside your body, like from shrapnel or a medical device, be sure to tell your doctor or the technologist about it before you have the MRI.


Question: Can you get a knee MRI if you're pregnant?

Answer: Pregnancy: Let your doctor know if there's any chance you're pregnant. While MRIs are considered safe for pregnant women, they're usually not recommended during the first trimester. Pregnant women should not get an injection of contrast dye unless it's absolutely necessary.


Question: Can you get a knee MRI if you're claustrophobic?

Answer: But keep these concerns in mind: Claustrophobia: Tell your doctor if you have fear of tight spaces. You may need to take medicine before the test to calm your anxiety. The MRI technologist does not provide this medicine, so you'll need to mention it to your doctor beforehand.


Question: What problems can be shown in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?

Answer: Unlike an X-ray, which takes pictures of your bones, a knee MRI lets your doctor see your bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and even some blood vessels. The test can show a range of problems, including: Damaged cartilage Torn tendons or ligaments Bone fractures Osteoarthritis Infections Tumors Your doctor may also order an MRI to see if you need knee surgery, or to see how well you're healing after surgery.


Question: What should you do if you're claustrophobic and is about to take the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test?

Answer: It's a type of scan that uses a magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. You may still be able to get the test. But keep these concerns in mind: Claustrophobia: Tell your doctor if you have fear of tight spaces. You may need to take medicine before the test to calm your anxiety. The MRI technologist does not provide this medicine, so you'll need to mention it to your doctor beforehand.


Question: What should you do if you have allergic reaction and is about to take the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) test?

Answer: It's a type of scan that uses a magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. It's called a contrast agent, and it helps make the images of your knee even clearer. Allergic reaction: If you get the contrast dye before the exam, there is a small risk you could have an allergic reaction. Your medical team can treat it quickly with medications, so be sure to tell the doctor or MRI technologist if you have any allergic symptoms, such as itching, a skin rash, trouble breathing, or a change in your heartbeat.


Question: What is porphyria?

Answer: If your doctor tells you that you have porphyria, it means you have one of a group of disorders that can cause nerve or skin problems. There's no cure, but you can get treatments that will help you manage your symptoms. If you have porphyria that affects your skin, you'll hear your doctor call it a "cutaneous porphyria." When the condition causes a problem with your nervous system, it's called "acute porphyria." One common type of cutaneous porphyria, known as porphyria cutanea tarda, is sometimes passed through genes but can also be what doctors call an "acquired disease." It also offers support for caregivers.


Question: What causes porphyria cutanea tarda?

Answer: Most types of porphyria are inherited. That means one or both of your parents passes a mutated gene to you that leads to the disease. These triggers can be things like: Drinking alcohol Estrogen use by women Hepatitis C HIV Smoking Episodes of acute porphyria, which rarely happen before puberty, can be set off by taking some kinds of drugs, including: Barbiturates Sulfa antibiotics Birth control pills Seizure medicines Other things that might trigger acute porphyria are: Fasting Smoking Drinking alcohol Infections Menstrual hormones Stress Being in the sun The symptoms of acute porphyria can develop quickly and last for days or weeks.


Question: What causes porphyria?

Answer: No matter what kind of porphyria you have, it has the same root cause: a problem with how your body makes a substance called heme. Heme is part of the "hemoglobin" in your blood -- proteins that carry oxygen from the lungs to the rest of your body. Heme has iron and gives blood its red color. It's made in your liver and bone marrow -- the spongy center of your bones. This shortage leads to a buildup of certain chemicals, called porphyrins, that help make heme. The type of porphyria you have is linked to the specific enzyme that your body lacks. Most types of porphyria are inherited.


Question: How is amblyopia (lazy eye) treated?

Answer: If detected early, amblyopia can be reversed by first treating the underlying cause. Then, with patching and/or eye drops applied to the better eye, the weaker eye can be forced to recover useful function.


Question: What causes misalignment of the eyes?

Answer: Simply stated, the eye doctor needs to determine how well each eye sees and why the eyes do not appear straight. Parents will be relieved to know that the eye doctor's exam can find the answers without any help from the baby! Any problems that are identified need to be addressed in order to preserve good eyesight in both eyes. Misalignment of the eyes may also be the result of the following: Birth trauma Brain injury Cerebral palsy Congenital maldevelopment Neurologic problems Refractive error - undiagnosed need for glasses in one or both eyes Hydrocephalus Strabismus The medical term for misaligned eyes is strabismus.


Question: What are the symptoms of eyestrain?

Answer: Familiar symptoms of eyestrain include: Headache Brow-ache Eye fatigue A pulling sensation Eyestrain quickly goes away if the eyes are given a chance to rest or the refractive problem is resolved.


Question: What causes secondary glaucoma?

Answer: Secondary glaucoma is the result of another eye disease or medical disorder, including the following: Uveitis (inflammation of the inner eye) Eye injury Bleeding inside the eye Eye tumor (extremely rare) Diabetes (neovascular glaucoma) Congenital problems An extremely mature cataract Steroid medications People with diabetes are susceptible to neovascular glaucoma, a particularly severe form of secondary glaucoma caused by an abnormal proliferation of blood vessels. Congenital glaucoma is a rare problem in babies and requires surgery to preserve eyesight.


Question: How common are cataracts?

Answer: Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness, accounting for more than 20 million cases worldwide. Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgery in the U. S. with about 3 million procedures performed every year. Surgery successfully restores vision loss caused by cataract in almost every case. Once the cloudy lens is removed, the surgeon implants a transparent artificial lens to take its place.


Question: Who can develop amblyopia?

Answer: Only infants and children develop amblyopia; and the vision loss can be reversed by various treatment strategies which force the child to use the "lazy" eye if the contributing eye problem is corrected early enough during childhood -- typically before the age of 7.


Question: What is viral conjunctivitis?

Answer: Viral conjunctivitis usually starts in one eye, causing lots of tears and a watery discharge. The other eye follows a few days later. Like a common cold, this infection will clear up without treatment.


Question: How do you know if you have eyestrain?

Answer: Familiar symptoms of eyestrain include: Headache Brow-ache Eye fatigue A pulling sensation Eyestrain quickly goes away if the eyes are given a chance to rest or the refractive problem is resolved.


Question: How does a baby's eyesight develop?

Answer: As your baby grows and develops, so do his eyes. During the first few months of life, an infant does not have crisp, clear vision. Thereafter, the eye's focusing mechanisms and eye movements rapidly develop as the eye and brain develop the visual apparatus. By about the age of 6 months, both eyes should consistently work together, allowing your baby to see both near and far away targets. The infant's eyes should be aligned, both looking at the same object.


Question: How else can you get a lazy eye?

Answer: Lazy eye can also result from other eye problems, such as: Ptosis (drooping of the eyelid). A significant refractive error in one eye. If an infant has one eye that has significantly more uncorrected nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism than the fellow eye, amblyopia can develop.


Question: What does astigmatic mean?

Answer: Light rays entering the eye first cross the clear cornea. Surprisingly, nearly two-thirds of the eye's focusing power occurs along its front surface (tear film or cornea). The normal cornea should have a semi-spherical contour similar to a baseball. This permits the eye to create a single focused image. If the central cornea is not symmetrical or uniform we say it is "astigmatic."


Question: How can you get secondary glaucoma?

Answer: Secondary glaucoma is the result of another eye disease or medical disorder, including the following: Uveitis (inflammation of the inner eye) Eye injury Bleeding inside the eye Eye tumor (extremely rare) Diabetes (neovascular glaucoma) Congenital problems An extremely mature cataract Steroid medications People with diabetes are susceptible to neovascular glaucoma, a particularly severe form of secondary glaucoma caused by an abnormal proliferation of blood vessels.


Question: Who can be affected by color blindness?

Answer: You have probably seen how paint colors are mixed at the hardware store. Color vision works much the same way because visible light is a mixture of different light rays (wavelengths). Color perception problems occur much more often in men, afflicting 8% of the male population. Females tend to be the "carrier" of the trait. It is extremely rare for someone to be totally color-blind, that is, able to see only shades of gray.


Question: What should I do if my baby's eyes do not work together?

Answer: However, in some situations the eyes do not appear to work together. One eye may tend to drift inward or outward some or all of the time. Prompt evaluation by an eye specialist is essential to determine whether any suspected drifting is due to a muscle imbalance or an internal eye problem that interferes with good eyesight.


Question: How can you treat cataracts?

Answer: Cataracts are the leading cause of blindness, accounting for more than 20 million cases worldwide. Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgery in the U. S. with about 3 million procedures performed every year. Surgery successfully restores vision loss caused by cataract in almost every case. Once the cloudy lens is removed, the surgeon implants a transparent artificial lens to take its place.


Question: How does amblyopia (lazy eye) develop?

Answer: Amblyopia ( Lazy Eye) If strabismus happens to an adult, perhaps after a trauma to the head or after a stroke, the person is likely to experience double vision. Double vision occurs because the two eyes are looking at different images. In an infant or a child, the brain will not tolerate double images and will shutdown the vision in the weaker eye. This involuntary loss of vision is called "lazy eye" or amblyopia. Here's another way to say it: Amblyopia is a healthy eye that does not see. Only infants and children develop amblyopia; and the vision loss can be reversed by various treatment strategies which force the child to use the "lazy" eye if the contributing eye problem is corrected early enough during childhood -- typically before the age of 7. Not every case of strabismus develops amblyopia, and not all cases of amblyopia are due to strabismus. For example, an infant with a dense congenital cataract in one eye will develop "lazy eye" unless the cloudy lens is removed.


Question: What are the different forms of infectious conjunctivitis?

Answer: There are several forms of infectious conjunctivitis: Bacterial conjunctivitis usually infects both eyes and produces a heavy discharge of pus and mucus. It is treated with antibiotic eye drops. Viral conjunctivitis usually starts in one eye, causing lots of tears and a watery discharge. The other eye follows a few days later. Like a common cold, this infection will clear up without treatment. Ophthalmia neonatorum is a rare acute form of conjunctivitis in newborn babies. The infection is acquired from the mother during delivery. It must be treated immediately by a doctor to prevent permanent eye damage or blindness. These infants may have infections elsewhere, such as in the lungs.


Question: What is acute closed-angle glaucoma?

Answer: Closed-angle glaucoma can be either chronic and acute. Chronic is a slow progression of the disease, but it can turn into a sudden emergency. With acute, there is sudden pain and blurred vision, and you need immediate medical attention.


Question: Does strabismus always cause amblyopia?

Answer: Not every case of strabismus develops amblyopia, and not all cases of amblyopia are due to strabismus. For example, an infant with a dense congenital cataract in one eye will develop "lazy eye" unless the cloudy lens is removed.


Question: What other eye conditions lead to vision problems?

Answer: There are other eye conditions that respond in varying degrees to medical and surgical treatment. The most common of these eye problems include: Cataracts Conjunctivitis, or pink eye Glaucoma Crossed or out-turned eyes (strabismus) Lazy eye (amblyopia) Macular degeneration The lens of the human eye focuses light so that you can see objects clearly at various distances.


Question: How can you get double vision?

Answer: Amblyopia ( Lazy Eye) If strabismus happens to an adult, perhaps after a trauma to the head or after a stroke, the person is likely to experience double vision. Double vision occurs because the two eyes are looking at different images.


Question: How do I know if I need new glasses?

Answer: If you wear prescription glasses, recurring eyestrain may be an indication that you need updated glasses or a new prescription. Resting the eyes every hour helps relieve eyestrain, especially when working with computers.


Question: Can amblyopia be reversed?

Answer: If detected early, amblyopia can be reversed by first treating the underlying cause. Then, with patching and/or eye drops applied to the better eye, the weaker eye can be forced to recover useful function.


Question: How do you get rid of eyestrain?

Answer: Familiar symptoms of eyestrain include: Headache Brow-ache Eye fatigue A pulling sensation Eyestrain quickly goes away if the eyes are given a chance to rest or the refractive problem is resolved. Prolonged focusing can lead to eyestrain, such as working at the computer for hours.


Question: How can your child get crossed eyes?

Answer: As your baby grows and develops, so do his eyes. During the first few months of life, an infant does not have crisp, clear vision. Thereafter, the eye's focusing mechanisms and eye movements rapidly develop as the eye and brain develop the visual apparatus. By about the age of 6 months, both eyes should consistently work together, allowing your baby to see both near and far away targets. The infant's eyes should be aligned, both looking at the same object. However, in some situations the eyes do not appear to work together. One eye may tend to drift inward or outward some or all of the time. Prompt evaluation by an eye specialist is essential to determine whether any suspected drifting is due to a muscle imbalance or an internal eye problem that interferes with good eyesight.


Question: How does eyestrain occur?

Answer: There are many different forms of night blindness, but it may be linked to these conditions: Liver disorder Vitamin- A deficiency Inherited disease of the retina, such as retinitis pigmentosa Cataracts Eyestrain can occur simply from overusing your eyes for long periods of time. Eyestrain is discomfort that can also be due to an uncorrected refractive problem. This common vision problem may occur while you are performing distant visual activities like driving or watching a movie or during close-up tasks like reading and computer use.


Question: How can you treat eyestrain?

Answer: Familiar symptoms of eyestrain include: Headache Brow-ache Eye fatigue A pulling sensation Eyestrain quickly goes away if the eyes are given a chance to rest or the refractive problem is resolved. Prolonged focusing can lead to eyestrain, such as working at the computer for hours. Children have a far more flexible focusing capacity. How often do you ever hear a child complain of eyestrain while playing video games? If you wear prescription glasses, recurring eyestrain may be an indication that you need updated glasses or a new prescription. Resting the eyes every hour helps relieve eyestrain, especially when working with computers.


Question: How does color blindness happen?

Answer: Risk factors for retinal detachment include the following: Moderate or extreme nearsightedness Previous eye surgery or injury Previous retinal detachment Inherited thinness of retinal tissue Color blindness is most commonly a disorder of the retina's light-sensitive photoreceptor cells, which respond to different colored light rays. There are two kinds of photoreceptors: Cones work best in bright light Rods work best in dim light Each photoreceptor produces pigments that respond to specific colors of light. Color vision is affected if those pigments are absent or defective or if they respond to the wrong wavelengths.


Question: What are common vision problems related to eye disease?

Answer: Retinal detachment, macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma are disorders of the functional eye and its processing units. These problems can lead to blurry or defective vision. The goals of treatment depend on the eye disease and may include restoring vision, halting vision loss, and preserving remaining eyesight.


Question: Who can get chronic open-angle glaucoma?

Answer: Types of glaucoma include the following: Chronic open-angle glaucoma ( COAG), which accounts for 90% of all cases in the U. S., usually appears in middle age and seems to have a genetic component.


Question: What are common vision problems?

Answer: The most common forms of vision impairment are errors of refraction -- the way light rays are focused inside the eye so images can be transmitted to the brain. Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism are examples of refractive disorders and often occur when the eyes are otherwise healthy. Refractive errors are correctable usually with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery, such as LASIK.


Question: What is nearsightedness?

Answer: It is the result of images being focused in front of the retina rather than on it, so distant objects appear blurred. A nearsighted person whose eyesight has not been corrected holds a book closer to the eyes when reading and has to sit in the front of the classroom or movie theater to see clearly. The condition runs in families and affects men and women equally, usually appearing in childhood and stabilizing in the 20s. Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is the opposite of nearsightedness.


Question: What is bacterial conjunctivitis?

Answer: There are several forms of infectious conjunctivitis: Bacterial conjunctivitis usually infects both eyes and produces a heavy discharge of pus and mucus. It is treated with antibiotic eye drops.


Question: How many people are affected by glaucoma?

Answer: More than 2 million adult Americans suffer from glaucoma, making it one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss.


Question: What conditions may night blindness be linked to?

Answer: There are many different forms of night blindness, but it may be linked to these conditions: Liver disorder Vitamin- A deficiency Inherited disease of the retina, such as retinitis pigmentosa Cataracts Eyestrain can occur simply from overusing your eyes for long periods of time.


Question: How does macular degeneration affect your eyes?

Answer: Since the macula is the central part of the retina, AMD affects central vision, the detailed vision you need for driving, reading, and close work like sewing. If you were looking at a photograph, you would not be able to see the middle of the picture but could still see the edges (preserved peripheral vision). The disorder occurs in two forms, dry and wet. The less common wet form of AMD requires immediate medical attention. Any delay in treatment may result in loss of your central vision.


Question: What is macular degeneration?

Answer: More than 2 million adult Americans suffer from glaucoma, making it one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss. Because the symptoms usually do not appear in people under 55 years of age, the disorder is more accurately referred to as age-related macular degeneration ( AMD). Since the macula is the central part of the retina, AMD affects central vision, the detailed vision you need for driving, reading, and close work like sewing. If you were looking at a photograph, you would not be able to see the middle of the picture but could still see the edges (preserved peripheral vision). The disorder occurs in two forms, dry and wet. The less common wet form of AMD requires immediate medical attention. Any delay in treatment may result in loss of your central vision.


Question: What are the different types of glaucoma?

Answer: Nearsightedness and farsightedness have to do with the way the eye brings images into focus on the back of the eyeball, where 10 layers of delicate nerve tissue make up the retina. More than 2 million adult Americans suffer from glaucoma, making it one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss. Types of glaucoma include the following: Chronic open-angle glaucoma ( COAG), which accounts for 90% of all cases in the U. S., usually appears in middle age and seems to have a genetic component. Closed-angle glaucoma can be either chronic and acute. Chronic is a slow progression of the disease, but it can turn into a sudden emergency. With acute, there is sudden pain and blurred vision, and you need immediate medical attention. Secondary glaucoma is associated with other eye diseases or medical conditions, trauma to the eye, or the use of steroid drugs. Regular eye checkups usually include measuring eye pressure and other tests in order to identify glaucoma. Unfortunately, half of all Americans with high eye pressure are unaware of the problem.


Question: What are the risk factors for retinal detachment?

Answer: If the retina is not reattached to the eye wall promptly, retinal cells starve and permanent blindness can result. Risk factors for retinal detachment include the following: Moderate or extreme nearsightedness Previous eye surgery or injury Previous retinal detachment Inherited thinness of retinal tissue Color blindness is most commonly a disorder of the retina's light-sensitive photoreceptor cells, which respond to different colored light rays. Although infectious conjunctivitis can be highly contagious, it is rarely serious and will not usually harm vision permanently if detected and treated promptly.


Question: What is nearsightedness and farsightedness like?

Answer: The further away images focus from the retina, the blurrier they appear. Damage to the delicate nerve layers of the retina are caused by elevated pressure inside the eye.


Question: What are the symptoms of an acute closed-angle glaucoma?

Answer: Closed-angle glaucoma can be either chronic and acute. If you have sudden, severe pain in your eyes, blurred vision, or rainbow halos -- along with headache, nausea, or vomiting.


Question: What other eye conditions can lead to vision problems?

Answer: Retinal detachment, macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma are disorders of the functional eye and its processing units. There are other eye conditions that respond in varying degrees to medical and surgical treatment. The most common of these eye problems include: Cataracts Conjunctivitis, or pink eye Glaucoma Crossed or out-turned eyes (strabismus) Lazy eye (amblyopia) Macular degeneration The lens of the human eye focuses light so that you can see objects clearly at various distances. Not every case of strabismus develops amblyopia, and not all cases of amblyopia are due to strabismus.


Question: What are vision problems?

Answer: The most common forms of vision impairment are errors of refraction -- the way light rays are focused inside the eye so images can be transmitted to the brain. Nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism are examples of refractive disorders and often occur when the eyes are otherwise healthy. Refractive errors are correctable usually with glasses, contact lenses, or refractive surgery, such as LASIK. Other vision problems may be related to eye disease. Retinal detachment, macular degeneration, cataracts, and glaucoma are disorders of the functional eye and its processing units. These problems can lead to blurry or defective vision. The goals of treatment depend on the eye disease and may include restoring vision, halting vision loss, and preserving remaining eyesight. Any problems that are identified need to be addressed in order to preserve good eyesight in both eyes.


Question: What causes amblyopia (lazy eye)?

Answer: Only infants and children develop amblyopia; and the vision loss can be reversed by various treatment strategies which force the child to use the "lazy" eye if the contributing eye problem is corrected early enough during childhood -- typically before the age of 7. As long as the underlying eye problem remains untreated, the vision in the weaker eye does not develop fully. Lazy eye can also result from other eye problems, such as: Ptosis (drooping of the eyelid). A significant refractive error in one eye.


Question: How do I know if I have acute closed-angle glaucoma?

Answer: Closed-angle glaucoma can be either chronic and acute. If you have sudden, severe pain in your eyes, blurred vision, or rainbow halos -- along with headache, nausea, or vomiting.


Question: What is chronic open-angle glaucoma?

Answer: Nearsightedness and farsightedness have to do with the way the eye brings images into focus on the back of the eyeball, where 10 layers of delicate nerve tissue make up the retina. Types of glaucoma include the following: Chronic open-angle glaucoma ( COAG), which accounts for 90% of all cases in the U. S., usually appears in middle age and seems to have a genetic component. Most COAG patients have no symptoms whatsoever and can experience profound loss of visual function before it is identified. Regular eye checkups usually include measuring eye pressure and other tests in order to identify glaucoma. Unfortunately, half of all Americans with high eye pressure are unaware of the problem.


Question: Who can get macular degeneration?

Answer: More than 2 million adult Americans suffer from glaucoma, making it one of the leading causes of irreversible vision loss. Because the symptoms usually do not appear in people under 55 years of age, the disorder is more accurately referred to as age-related macular degeneration ( AMD).


Question: What could happen if the retina is detached?

Answer: If the retina is not reattached to the eye wall promptly, retinal cells starve and permanent blindness can result. Risk factors for retinal detachment include the following: Moderate or extreme nearsightedness Previous eye surgery or injury Previous retinal detachment Inherited thinness of retinal tissue Color blindness is most commonly a disorder of the retina's light-sensitive photoreceptor cells, which respond to different colored light rays. Although infectious conjunctivitis can be highly contagious, it is rarely serious and will not usually harm vision permanently if detected and treated promptly.


Question: What is opthalmia neonatorum?

Answer: It must be treated immediately by a doctor to prevent permanent eye damage or blindness. These infants may have infections elsewhere, such as in the lungs. Congenital glaucoma is a rare problem in babies and requires surgery to preserve eyesight.


Question: What happens if amblyopia is not treated?

Answer: Only infants and children develop amblyopia; and the vision loss can be reversed by various treatment strategies which force the child to use the "lazy" eye if the contributing eye problem is corrected early enough during childhood -- typically before the age of 7. As long as the underlying eye problem remains untreated, the vision in the weaker eye does not develop fully.


Question: What is retinal detachment?

Answer: Nearsightedness and farsightedness have to do with the way the eye brings images into focus on the back of the eyeball, where 10 layers of delicate nerve tissue make up the retina. Unlike wallpaper, however, there is no glue. Small holes can develop in areas where the retina is exceptionally thin or damaged. If that happens, the clear liquid vitreous that fills the eye can seep behind the retina and cause the wallpaper to come off. This is retinal detachment. Color vision works much the same way because visible light is a mixture of different light rays (wavelengths).


Question: How can triptans help with menstrual migraines?

Answer: Your doctor can prescribe these drugs to treat a migraine once it's started, but they also prevent menstrual migraine headaches. You start them 2 days before you usually get a migraine and keep taking them for 6 to 7 days total. Triptans can cause side effects like nausea, dizziness, a stuffy nose, and cramps. They might also lead to rebound headaches -- new or more severe headaches that happen when you overuse medication.


Question: What should you write in your diary about menstrual migraine attacks?

Answer: Write down in your diary: When your symptoms begin -- the number of days before or into your period How often you get migraine How long they last What they feel like (throbbing, aching, etc.) What other symptoms you have Share your diary with your doctor. This symptom record will help you get the right diagnosis and treatment.


Question: How can a diary help to prevent migraines during your period?

Answer: Watch for patterns. You'll start to notice whether your headaches are tied to your menstrual cycle and if they start before, during, or after your periods. If you know ahead of time when they're likely to start, you can take steps to prevent them. Write down in your diary: When your symptoms begin -- the number of days before or into your period How often you get migraine How long they last What they feel like (throbbing, aching, etc.) What other symptoms you have Share your diary with your doctor. This symptom record will help you get the right diagnosis and treatment.


Question: How can magnesium help prevent menstrual migraine attacks?

Answer: Some research has linked the onset of a migraine to low levels of this mineral. To help prevent a menstrual migraine from occurring, start taking magnesium on the 15th day of your cycle. Keep taking it until you get your period.


Question: How can nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs prevent menstrual migraine attacks?

Answer: Pain relievers such as ibuprofen and naproxen prevent menstrual migraines or make them less severe. You typically take them twice a day starting 2 to 3 days before your period begins, and then for another 3 to 5 days after it arrives.


Question: How can estrogen pills, gel, or patch prevent menstrual migraine attacks?

Answer: A menstrual migraine can strike around the start of your period. You can prevent them by taking a steady dose of estrogen throughout your menstrual cycle. If you have migraine with aura, talk to your doctor before you start taking estrogen -- it may raise your odds for a stroke.


Question: How can magnesium help with menstrual migraines?

Answer: Some of the medicines that relieve the pain of regular migraine symptoms don't work on menstrual migraine. You can prevent them by taking a steady dose of estrogen throughout your menstrual cycle. You start them 2 days before you usually get a migraine and keep taking them for 6 to 7 days total.


Question: How can you prevent migraines during your period?

Answer: Some of the medicines that relieve the pain of regular migraine symptoms don't work on menstrual migraine. You can try a few different approaches to preventing your menstrual migraine. Work with your doctor to figure out which one is best for you. Talk to your doctor about whether these medications might help you stop your headaches before they start. You typically take them twice a day starting 2 to 3 days before your period begins, and then for another 3 to 5 days after it arrives. Your doctor can prescribe these drugs to treat a migraine once it's started, but they also prevent menstrual migraine headaches. Some research has linked the onset of a migraine to low levels of this mineral.


Question: What medications can you use to prevent menstrual migraines?

Answer: Talk to your doctor about whether these medications might help you stop your headaches before they start. Triptans.


Question: What drugs can prevent menstrual migraine headaches?

Answer: Take estrogen during the days when you'd normally skip pills or take inactive ones. If your periods don't come on schedule or you also get migraine headaches at other times in your menstrual cycle, you can take preventive medicine every day. Drugs that prevent migraine headaches include: Some types of antidepressants Some types of antiseizure medicines Blood pressure medicines such as beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers CGRP inhibitors, these are a new class of preventive medicine Devices which may be used for treatment or prevention include:.


Question: How intense is indoor cycling?

Answer: Indoor cycling is intense. Your heart rate will soar and stay elevated for 45-60 minutes. There will be brief moments of slower pedaling, but most of the class will be steady work.


Question: What can I expect in an indoor cycling class?

Answer: The instructor chooses music to go along with each phase of the class. She may play an upbeat song for 5 minutes as you pedal as fast as you can. Then she may play a slower tune while you catch your breath and pedal slowly. You may bike for 5 minutes with a lot of resistance, to mimic riding up a major hill, with a song to match the mood. Some instructors use imagery to keep you going. You'll imagine yourself pedaling fast through a desert straightaway, or steadily up a green mountain on a Caribbean island.


Question: What are indoor cycling classes?

Answer: Many gyms offer indoor cycling classes. Or you can join one of the popular cycling boutiques, like Flywheel, which combines indoor cycling with a weighted workout for your arms, or Soul Cycle, which adds mind-body exercise to its bike routine. By the end of the workout, you may feel like you've been through a real adventure. Legs: Yes. All that pedaling will boost your muscle strength and endurance.


Question: How can I get the most out of an indoor cycling class?

Answer: Plan to do 3-5 classes a week for best results. Sometimes you'll get off the saddle and pedal in a standing position. There's a bike for each person in the class. They usually face the same direction, either toward the instructor or a mirror. Your heart rate will soar and stay elevated for 45-60 minutes. There will be brief moments of slower pedaling, but most of the class will be steady work. Cost: Plan to pay for a gym membership or class fees.


Question: What are more serious cases of food poisoning?

Answer: Some bacteria cause fewer cases of food poisoning but can make you very sick. They can even cause death. They include: E. coli. This is the name of a type of bacteria found in the intestines of animals. You can get this from undercooked ground beef, unpasteurized milk, sprouts, or any food or liquid that has had contact with animal feces or sewage. Some strains are harmless. Others can make you very sick. Listeria is an unusual bacterium that can grow in cold temperatures such as in the refrigerator. It's found in smoked fish, raw (unpasteurized) cheeses, ice cream, pates, hot dogs, and deli meats. Pregnant women and others with weakened immune systems, can feel sick from milder infections from listeria within a day. Other people with a more serious listeria infection called listeriosis may not show symptoms for a week or even a couple of months. In addition to diarrhea and vomiting, listeria can cause unusual symptoms, including weakness, confusion, and a stiff neck. It can also be deadly. If you have a stiff neck with a fever, you may need antibiotics.


Question: What should you know about food poisoning?

Answer: An estimated 48 million Americans, that's 1 out of every 6, come down with food poisoning every year. Most get better on their own without medical treatment. You may have symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea within hours of eating. But sometimes the symptoms can take days or more than a week to show up. That can make it hard to know if it's food poisoning or something else. The delay also makes it tricky to trace the illness back to the specific food or drink. The same food can affect people differently. Some may feel unwell after just a few bites. Others can eat a lot and have no reaction at all. Food poisoning is both more common and riskier for people with weakened immune systems, infants and young children, pregnant women, and the elderly. Food poisoning can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites.


Question: How does salmonella cause food poisoning?

Answer: Salmonella is the name of a group of bacteria. They grow in undercooked eggs and meat. But you can also get salmonella from unpasteurized milk or cheese. Some fruits and vegetables, such as melons or sprouts, can also cause it. Symptoms start within 1-3 days and can last up to a week.


Question: How does clostridium perfringens cause food poisoning?

Answer: Foods made in bulk are problematic, too. You may have cramps and diarrhea but no other symptoms. You get sick within 6-24 hours and are usually feeling better in a couple of days. You can get this from undercooked ground beef, unpasteurized milk, sprouts, or any food or liquid that has had contact with animal feces or sewage.


Question: What is a hydrofluoroalkane inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: The HFA consists of a pressurized canister inside a plastic case, with a mouthpiece attached. With an HFA, you press on the device while inhaling the COPD medication directly into your lungs. Its portability makes it easy to use anywhere,anytime. HFAs use a chemical propellant to push medication out of the inhaler. Some medications can be taken in the form of a dry powder, using a dry powder inhaler, which is also a handheld device.


Question: How do I keep track of how much medication is in my dry powder inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: Your DPI should have an indicator on the top or sides, telling you how many doses you have left. Make sure you have a new dry powder inhaler available before the old one is empty.


Question: How do I use a dry powder inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: These are the general steps for using a dry powder inhaler for COPD: Remove the cap from the dry powder inhaler. Load a dose of medicine (how you do this depends on the type of inhaler you have). Turn your head and breathe out as much air as you can -- try and empty your lungs. Put the dry powder inhaler up to your mouth. Place the mouth-piece in your mouth and seal your lips firmly around the opening so no air or medicine can escape out the sides. Using just your mouth, breathe in once -- very deep and fast -- filling your lungs as deeply as you can. Dry powder inhalers are breathe-activated, so it's the breathing in deep and fast that gives you the right dose of medicine. Never breathe into the inhaler. Take your mouth off the inhaler and hold your breath for at least 10 seconds. Then slowly breathe out. If your doctor prescribed more than one dose of COPD medication, wait about 1 minute before taking the next dose. Replace the cap on the dry powder inhaler. Gargle and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash (usually advised only for steroid-type inhalers).


Question: Why is it important to learn how to use my inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: If you use the hydrofluoroalkane inhaler or dry powder inhaler the right way, you receive the right amount of COPD medication and it can reach deep inside your lungs. Then you can gain the full benefit of the medication. Also, if you use your inhaler the right way, you are less likely to experience side effects.


Question: How do I use a hydrofluoroalkane inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: These are the general steps for using a hydrofluoroalkane inhaler for COPD: Remove the cap from the hydrofluoroalkane inhaler. Shake the inhaler for a few seconds. Place your index finger on top of the canister and thumb on the bottom of the mouthpiece. Tilt your head back slightly and breathe out. Hold the inhaler upright about the width of two fingers from your mouth. Press down on the inhaler once as you breathe in as slowly and deeply as you can - about 3 to 5 seconds. If possible, hold your breath for at least 10 seconds. If your doctor prescribed more than one puff of COPD medication, wait about 1 minute and repeat steps 2-8. Replace the cap on the metered dose inhaler. Gargle and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash (usually advised only for steroid-type inhalers).


Question: How do I keep track of how much medication is in my hydrofluoroalkane inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: Check the side of the canister for the number of puffs it contains. Then keep track of how many times you use it each day. This way, you can estimate when your HFA is likely to run out. Put that date right on the canister. Some HFAs contain a color-coded side window that indicates when the medication is running out. If so, ask your doctor about HFAs that count the puffs each time you press the inhaler. Or ask about getting two inhalers at a time. When one runs out, get a refill so you always have an inhaler handy. Throw away the HFA when it is empty, even if it continues to spray.


Question: What is a dry powder inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: A hydrofluoroalkane inhaler is a handheld device that delivers a specific amount of medication in aerosol form, rather than as a pill or capsule. A DPI delivers medication to the lungs as you inhale through it. It doesn't contain propellants or other ingredients -- just your medication.


Question: What tests do doctors use to diagnose pancreatitis?

Answer: To diagnose acute pancreatitis, your doctor tests your blood to measure two digestive enzymes: amylase and lipase. High levels of these two enzymes mean you probably have acute pancreatitis. Other tests can include: Pancreatic function test to find out whether your pancreas is making the right amounts of digestive enzymes Ultrasound, CT scan, and MRI, which make images of your pancreas ERCP, in which your doctor uses a long tube with a camera on the end to look at your pancreatic and bile ducts Biopsy, in which your doctor uses a needle to remove a small piece of tissue from your pancreas to be studied In some cases, your doctor may test your blood and poop to confirm the diagnosis.


Question: What is acute pancreatitis?

Answer: Acute pancreatitis is sudden inflammation that lasts a short time. It can range from mild discomfort to a severe, life-threatening illness. Most people with acute pancreatitis recover completely after getting the right treatment. In severe cases, acute pancreatitis can cause bleeding, serious tissue damage, infection, and cysts. Severe pancreatitis can also harm other vital organs such as the heart, lungs, and kidneys.


Question: What are the symptoms of acute pancreatitis?

Answer: Symptoms of acute pancreatitis Fever Higher heart rate Nausea and vomiting Swollen and tender belly Pain in the upper part of your belly that goes into your back. Eating may make it worse, especially foods high in fat.


Question: How is acute pancreatitis diagnosed?

Answer: To diagnose acute pancreatitis, your doctor tests your blood to measure two digestive enzymes: amylase and lipase. High levels of these two enzymes mean you probably have acute pancreatitis.


Question: What are the risk factors for chronic pancreatitis?

Answer: Another top cause is drinking lots of alcohol for a long period of time. People with chronic pancreatitis are usually men between ages 30 and 40.


Question: What causes pancreatitis?

Answer: Diarrhea and weight loss because your pancreas isn't releasing enough enzymes to break down food Upset stomach and vomiting Acute pancreatitis causes include: Autoimmune diseases Drinking lots of alcohol Infections Gallstones Medications Metabolic disorders Surgery Trauma In up to 15% of people with acute pancreatitis, the cause is unknown. Chronic pancreatitis causes include: Cystic fibrosis Family history of pancreas disorders Gallstones High triglycerides Longtime alcohol use Medications In about 20% to 30% of cases, the cause of chronic pancreatitis is unknown. Pain medicine If your case is more severe, your treatment might include: ERCP to take out gallstones if they're blocking your bile or pancreatic ducts Gallbladder surgery if gallstones caused your pancreatitis Pancreas surgery to clean out fluid or dead or diseased tissue Treatment for chronic pancreatitis If you have chronic pancreatitis, you might need more treatments, including: Insulin to treat diabetes Pain medicine Pancreatic enzymes to help your body get enough nutrients from your food Surgery or procedures to relieve pain, help with drainage, or treat blockages Because many cases of pancreatitis are caused by alcohol abuse, prevention often focuses on limiting how much you drink or not drinking at all.


Question: How is chronic pancreatitis treated?

Answer: It releases insulin and glucagon into your bloodstream. Symptoms of chronic pancreatitis The symptoms of chronic pancreatitis are similar to those of acute pancreatitis. Treatment for acute pancreatitis You'll probably need to stay in the hospital, where your treatment may include: Antibiotics if your pancreas is infected Intravenous ( IV) fluids, given through a needle Low-fat diet or fasting. Pain medicine If your case is more severe, your treatment might include: ERCP to take out gallstones if they're blocking your bile or pancreatic ducts Gallbladder surgery if gallstones caused your pancreatitis Pancreas surgery to clean out fluid or dead or diseased tissue Treatment for chronic pancreatitis If you have chronic pancreatitis, you might need more treatments, including: Insulin to treat diabetes Pain medicine Pancreatic enzymes to help your body get enough nutrients from your food Surgery or procedures to relieve pain, help with drainage, or treat blockages Because many cases of pancreatitis are caused by alcohol abuse, prevention often focuses on limiting how much you drink or not drinking at all. Stop smoking, follow your doctor's and dietitian's advice about your diet, and take your medications so you'll have fewer and milder attacks of pancreatitis.


Question: How is depression in men treated?

Answer: More than 80% of people with depression -- both men and women -- can be treated successfully with antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of both.


Question: Why is it harder for men to get help for depression?

Answer: For example, men tend to deny having problems because they are supposed to "be strong." And American culture suggests that expressing emotion is largely a feminine trait. As a result, men who are depressed are more likely to talk about the physical symptoms of their depression -- such as feeling tired --- rather than symptoms related to emotions.


Question: How do doctors test for type 1 diabetes?

Answer: The doctor will do a simple urine test to check for glucose (sugar) in the urine. A more involved test, called an oral glucose tolerance test, can tell for certain if it's type 1 diabetes. Your child will need to follow a special diet before this procedure.


Question: Who can get type 1 diabetes?

Answer: It used to be called juvenile diabetes because most of the people who got it were young children. Your child could get type 1 diabetes as an infant, or later, as a toddler or a teen. Most often, it appears after age 5. But some people don't get it until their late 30s.


Question: How do I know if my child has type 1 diabetes?

Answer: Symptoms of type 1 diabetes in infants and children can start very suddenly. Keep an eye out for these signs in your baby or child: Sudden strange behavior (acting âdrunkâ) Breath that smells fruity, sweet, or like wine Extreme drowsiness or lack of energy Ongoing, intense thirst Grunting while breathing Heavy breathing Huge appetite Sudden vision changes Sudden weight loss Peeing more often (infants and toddlers may have more wet diapers than usual) Difficulty breathing Type 1 diabetes may cause sudden, extreme swings in blood sugar that can be dangerous.


Question: What should you know about inherited colorectal cancer?

Answer: Colorectal cancer is called "hereditary" or "inherited" when several generations of a family have colorectal cancer. Several gene mutations, or abnormalities, that cause colorectal cancer, and allow it to be transmitted to family members, have been found. A gene is a block of DNA that holds the genetic code, or instructions, for producing proteins vital to our bodily functions. The two most common inherited colorectal cancer syndromes are hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer ( HNPCC) and familial adenomatous polyposis ( FAP). They can affect men and women, and the children of people who carry these genes have a 50% chance of inheriting the disease-causing gene. These two inherited cancer syndromes account for less than 5% of all colorectal cancers.


Question: What is familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) syndrome?

Answer: Familial adenomatous polyposis ( FAP) is a rare condition characterized by the presence of more than hundreds or even thousands of benign polyps, or growths in the large intestine and upper respiratory tract. It is thought to be present in about 1% of all people diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year. The polyps occur early in life, with 95% of people with FAP developing polyps by age 35, and are often detected in patients in their teens, with 50% developing polyps by age 15. If the colon is not surgically removed, there is almost a 100% chance that some of the polyps will develop into cancer, usually by age 40. Thyroid cancer is associated with FAP. While most cases of FAP are inherited, nearly a third of the cases are the result of a spontaneous (newly-occurring) gene mutation, or abnormality. For those who develop a new gene mutation, it is possible to pass the FAP gene onto their children.


Question: What is the difference between familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP) and hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)?

Answer: There are two main differences between FAP and HNPCC, and they include: Number of genes mutated. In FAP, there is only one gene, the APC gene, which is abnormal. In HNPCC, there are several gene, mutations which may be responsible for the development of the condition. Presence of polyps, or growths that can become cancer. FAP is characterized by the presence of more than 100 benign polyps. In HNPCC, affected people have fewer polyps, but these polyps can become cancerous more quickly than normal.


Question: What is hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)?

Answer: Nonpolyposis colorectal cancer, HNPCC, is the most common form of hereditary colon cancer, accounting for about 3% of all colorectal cancer diagnoses each year. People with HNPCC often have at least three family members and two generations with colorectal cancer, and cancer develops before age 50. Although not everyone who inherits the HNPCC gene will develop colorectal cancer, the risk is very high -- about 80%. People with HNPCC also have a higher risk of developing other Lynch syndrome-related cancers, such as kidney, ovarian, uterine, renal, pelvis, small intestine, and stomach cancer.


Question: What is the relationship between Ashkenazi Jews and colorectal cancer?

Answer: These patients are also at increased risk of bowel cancer. This is thought to be due to a variant of the APC gene that is found in 6% of this population. Ashkenazi Jews make up the majority of the Jewish population in the U. S. If you suspect that you are at risk for an inherited form of colorectal cancer, talk to your doctor. There may be a genetic test that can be performed to confirm your suspicions.


Question: What are other forms of inherited colorectal cancer?

Answer: The two most common inherited colorectal cancer syndromes are hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer ( HNPCC) and familial adenomatous polyposis ( FAP). Familial adenomatous polyposis ( FAP) is a rare condition characterized by the presence of more than hundreds or even thousands of benign polyps, or growths in the large intestine and upper respiratory tract. Families in which this gene mutation occurs may or may not have one or more family members with colorectal cancer or polyps. Presence of polyps, or growths that can become cancer. Patients with PJS typically develop dozens to thousands of benign polyps, or growths, in the stomach and intestines, primarily in the small intestine. Jewish people who are Ashkenazi, or of Eastern European descent, are at increased risk for colorectal cancer.


Question: Is there a cure for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome?

Answer: There is no cure for LGS, although there is a lot of research to find treatments that work better. Each child with LGS has different needs. Most continue to have seizures and intellectual disabilities after they grow up. Some may be able to live independently, but most will need help with daily activities. They may need to live in a group or assisted living home.


Question: How is Lennox-Gastaut syndrome diagnosed?

Answer: Does your child have problems with learning or behavior? Your doctor will look for three signs to diagnose LGS: Multiple kinds of seizures that are hard to control Developmental delays or intellectual disability An electroencephalogram ( EEG) that shows a specific kind of pattern, called a slow spike-wave pattern, between seizures.


Question: Can medical marijuana treat Lennox-Gastaut syndrome?

Answer: Doctors haven't yet studied the use of medical marijuana in children who have LGS, and most of the studies using it to treat epilepsy have focused on short-term benefits. According to the Lennox- Gastaut Foundation, more research is needed to find out if this is a safe and effective treatment for children with LGS.


Question: What medications treat Lennox-Gastaut syndrome?

Answer: The goal is to reduce the number of seizures with medication that causes the fewest side effects. Finding the right treatment for your child will probably take time and close coordination with the doctor. Drugs used to treat seizures include: Cannabidiol ( Epidiolex) Clobazam ( Onfi) Felbamate ( Felbatol) Lamotrigine ( Lamictal) Rufinamide ( Banzel) Topiramate ( Topamax) Valproate, valproic acid ( Depakene, Depakote) Usually, no single medication controls seizures completely. The doctor will monitor your child's medication closely, especially if your child takes more than one at a time.


Question: What causes Lennox-Gastaut syndrome?

Answer: In some cases, it could be caused by: Lack of oxygen during birth Severe brain injuries linked with pregnancy or birth, such as low birth weight or premature birth Brain infections (such as encephalitis, meningitis, or rubella) Seizures that start in infancy, called infantile spasms or West's syndrome A brain problem called cortical dysplasia, where some nerve fibers in the brain don't line up right during development in the womb Tuberous sclerosis, where non-cancerous tumors form in many places throughout the body, including the brain Genetics Children with LGS have frequent and severe seizures. Do you know if your child has any brain injuries?


Question: Can diet help Lennox-Gastaut syndrome?

Answer: Diets A special high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet, called the ketogenic diet, helps some people with epilepsy, including some children with LGS. It's a high-fat, low-protein, low-carb diet. It has to be started in a specific way and followed very strictly, so you need a doctor's supervision. Doctors aren't sure why the ketogenic diet works, but some studies show that children with epilepsy who stay on the diet have a better chance of reducing their seizures or their medications. For some kids, a modified Atkins diet may work, too. You don't have to restrict calories, protein, or fluids. Also, you don't weigh or measure foods. Instead, you monitor carbohydrates. People with seizures that are hard to treat have also tried a low glycemic index diet. This diet focuses on the type of carbs, as well as the amount, that someone eats.


Question: What are symptoms of Lennox-Gastaut syndrome?

Answer: Tonic seizures. In some children, the first sign of LGS is an ongoing seizure that lasts 30 minutes, or continuous seizures without full recovery between them. This is called status epilepticus, and it is a medical emergency. People with LGS may also have slower reaction time. Some have problems learning and processing information. They may have behavioral problems, too.


Question: What types of surgery treat Lennox-Gastatut syndrome?

Answer: Surgery If medications and other treatments aren't reducing the number of seizures, your doctor may suggest surgery. The vagus nerve stimulator is a small device placed in the arm or near the chest. It sends electrical impulses to the vagus nerve, which runs from the abdomen to the brain. Corpus callosotomy divides the left and right hemispheres of the brain. That keeps seizures that start in one part of the brain from spreading to the opposite side.


Question: What is Lennox-Gastaut syndrome?

Answer: Children with LGS have learning difficulties and developmental delays (like sitting, crawling, walking) that can be moderate to severe. They can also have behavioral problems. Each child develops differently, and it's impossible to predict how a child with LGS will do. While most children have ongoing seizures and some form of learning disability, some may respond well to treatment and have fewer seizures. And they often have different kinds of seizures, including: Atonic seizures. That keeps seizures that start in one part of the brain from spreading to the opposite side. To learn more about Lennox- Gastaut syndrome, you can visit the web site of the LGS Foundation.


Question: How does exercise affect blood sugar if I have gestational diabetes?

Answer: Exercise can lower your blood sugar. So when you work out, always have a form of quick sugar with you, such as glucose tablets or hard candy.


Question: Can I exercise if I have gestational diabetes?

Answer: Being active is a good way to help manage your blood sugar. Staying fit during pregnancy is also good for your posture and can curb some common problems, like backaches and fatigue. So when you work out, always have a form of quick sugar with you, such as glucose tablets or hard candy.


Question: How does mononucleosis spread?

Answer: EBV spreads through bodily fluids. The most common way it spreads is through saliva, which is why you can get it from kissing. You can also get it if you share food, drinks, or silverware with a person who has it, or if an infected person coughs or sneezes near you. As long as an object -- like a fork or spoon -- that an infected person used is still moist, the virus is probably still present and contagious. EBV can also spread through blood and semen. So although it's less likely, you can get mono from medical procedures such as blood transfusions and organ transplants, or through sexual contact.


Question: What are some complications of mononucleosis?

Answer: If you develop complications from mono, they can be serious. One problem that can happen is an enlarged spleen. If it becomes severe, your spleen can rupture and cause a sudden, sharp pain on the left side of your upper abdomen. If you have pain like this, it's an emergency. Get medical care right away because you may need surgery. Mono can also cause complications that affect your liver, including hepatitis or jaundice. It's less likely, but mono can also cause problems with your heart and nervous system, and anemia. You're more likely to develop serious complications from mono if your immune system is compromised because of an illness like HIV/ AIDS or because you take certain medications.


Question: What causes mononucleosis?

Answer: In general, the Epstein- Barr virus ( EBV) is what causes mono. It's a common virus that many people are exposed to as kids. In the U. S., about 85% to 90% of adults are infected with the virus by the time they're age 40. Usually, the infection happens before a child becomes a teen. EBV is the most common cause of mono, but other viruses can cause it, too. Others have no symptoms at all. EBV can stay in your saliva for months after you're infected, so even if you don't have symptoms or feel sick, you may be able to spread it.


Question: How is hydrotherapy done for treatment of fibromyalgia?

Answer: Your physical therapist may recommend that you use moist heat for a few minutes just before and after stretching or doing resistance or aerobic exercise. Doing so may make the exercise less painful and more effective. If you want to use moist heat to decrease fibromyalgia pain, you might try it twice daily, about 15 minutes each time. Some people with fibromyalgia prefer alternating the ice compresses with the moist heat to get the most benefit.


Question: Where can I find physical therapists for fibromyalgia?

Answer: Physical therapists can be found in many places, including: doctor's offices fitness facilities home health agencies hospitals nursing homes outpatient clinics schools


Question: How can I find a licensed physical therapist to help me treat my fibromyalgia?

Answer: The physical therapist may use different types of tools with fibromyalgia patients including: deep tissue massage low-impact aerobic conditioning (water aerobics) pain relief exercise stretching and strengthening exercises TENS units (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) ultrasound In looking for a physical therapist, it is important to first check whether your health care plan covers visits. Many health insurance companies include physical therapists in their lists of providers. Next, look for a trained professional, someone who is licensed to practice in your state. It is also helpful to find a therapist who has experience in dealing with fibromyalgia. Your health professional may be able to suggest a physical therapist. Or talk to friends or family members who have had physical therapy.


Question: Why does a physical therapist use hydrotherapy to treat fibromyalgia?

Answer: Cold compresses may reduce the pain of an injury, such as a sprain or strain. Moist heat may give relief to fibromyalgia's chronic muscle pain or trigger point pain. You may use a moist heating pad, a warm, damp towel, or a hydrocollator pack. You can also stand or sit on a stool in the shower and let warm water hit the painful area on your body.


Question: What tools does a physical therapist use for fibromyalgia?

Answer: The physical therapist may use different types of tools with fibromyalgia patients including: deep tissue massage low-impact aerobic conditioning (water aerobics) pain relief exercise stretching and strengthening exercises TENS units (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) ultrasound In looking for a physical therapist, it is important to first check whether your health care plan covers visits.


Question: What is the focus of physical therapy for fibromyalgia?

Answer: Regular physical therapy programs may help you regain control of your fibromyalgia as you focus on lifestyle changes rather than on the chronic problems of pain, stiffness, and fatigue. Proper posture, which your physical therapist will help you with, allows efficient muscle function. That results in your being able to avoid undue fatigue and pain. In addition, the therapist may use slow stretching exercises to help you improve muscle flexibility. Relaxation exercises that the therapist will show you can help reduce muscle tension.


Question: How does physical therapy help people with fibromyalgia?

Answer: These health care professionals teach people with fibromyalgia how to build strength and improve their range of motion. And they can help people with fibromyalgia learn how to make sensible decisions about daily activities that will help prevent painful flare-ups. With these tools, physical therapists can help people with fibromyalgia use their muscles, stretch for flexibility, and move their joints through range-of-motion exercises. Moist heat may give relief to fibromyalgia's chronic muscle pain or trigger point pain.


Question: How can a physical therapist help my fibromyalgia?

Answer: If you have fibromyalgia, this allows the therapist to develop specific stretching and strengthening programs to meet your individual needs. It is also helpful to find a therapist who has experience in dealing with fibromyalgia.


Question: What are the symptoms of hepatitis C in its early stages?

Answer: The symptoms are similar to those of the flu, but you might not have symptoms at all. If you do, they may include: Belly pain Clay-colored poop Dark urine Fatigue Fever Jaundice (yellow tint to your skin or eyes) Joint pain Poor appetite Nausea Vomiting Symptoms usually show up between 2 and 12 weeks after exposure to the virus.


Question: What are signs of cirrhosis in people with hepatitis C?

Answer: Some people who've had it for a while get liver cancer or scarring of the liver, which is called cirrhosis. In addition to the above symptoms, signs that your liver isn't working the way it should include: Ascites -- fluid buildup in your belly Easy bleeding Easy bruising Hepatic encephalopathy -- confusion, drowsiness, and slurred speech Hives or rashes Itchy skin Spider angiomas -- spidery blood vessels under your skin Swollen legs Weight loss You could get scarring of the liver, called cirrhosis, after you've had hepatitis C for 20 or 30 years. If you have it, you might: Retain water Bleed and bruise easily Notice skin and eyes turning yellow with jaundice No.


Question: What tests might your doctor want to use when checking for bladder issues?

Answer: Your bladder is filled with water, then you're asked to stand up and cough, or to walk to see if any urine leaks.


Question: What are the most common bladder issues women face during and after menopause?

Answer: The most common ones women face during and after menopause are: Stress incontinence. You might lose a few drops of urine when you're coughing, sneezing, or laughing. Or you might notice leaking when you're lifting something heavy or doing something that puts pressure on your bladder. Urge incontinence. The need to pee comes on fast and unexpectedly. You might not make it to a bathroom in time. This is sometimes called an âirritableâ or âoveractiveâ bladder. Nocturia. Some women wake up several times in the middle of the night with an urge to pee. Painful urination. After menopause, women are more likely to have urinary tract infections ( UTIs). They can give you a burning sensation while peeing.


Question: How are bladder control issues from menopause treated?

Answer: Vaginal estrogen cream. A tampon-like sensor is inserted into your vagina, then low electrical currents stimulate your pelvic floor to contract. Over time, this device can help you get better at holding in your pee. Your doctor can fit you for this ring-shaped device, which is inserted into your vagina. It presses against your urethra, helping you avoid leakage. If other treatments don't work, your doctor may suggest an operation to lift your bladder or help support your urethra.


Question: What can you do to help bladder issues from menopause?

Answer: That depends on the type of incontinence you have, but small changes may help you regain control of your bladder. Tighten your pelvic floor. Kegel exercises involve repeatedly tightening and releasing your pelvic floor muscles for a few seconds. You can get the idea of how to do them by stopping your urine, but don't do that routinely. Coffee, tea, soda, and alcoholic drinks may cause your bladder to fill quickly, then leak. Limit liquids later in the day. Keep a healthy weight. Extra pounds put more pressure on your bladder. Time your bathroom trips. If you make bathroom breaks on a set schedule -- for instance, every hour -- it can help you regain control of your bladder muscles.


Question: How do you take opioids?

Answer: But there are several ways to get opioids: Pill or liquid by mouth Nasal spray Skin patch Tablet dissolved under the tongue or between the gum and cheek Suppository Shot into a vein Shot into a muscle Shot into the space surrounding the spinal cord Implanted pump Opioids can be short-acting or long-acting.


Question: What are symptoms of opioid withdrawal?

Answer: Common side effects include: Constipation Drowsiness Nausea Thought and memory problems Vomiting It's common to develop a dependence on certain medications if you use them for a long time. If you physically depend on a medication, you'll have withdrawal symptoms if you stop using it. Symptoms of opioid withdrawal include: Restlessness Muscle and bone pain Insomnia Diarrhea Vomiting Chills with goose bumps Involuntary leg movements Dependence often goes hand-in-hand with tolerance, which is the need to take higher doses of a medication to get the same effect.


Question: What are common side effects of opioids?

Answer: Common side effects include: Constipation Drowsiness Nausea Thought and memory problems Vomiting It's common to develop a dependence on certain medications if you use them for a long time.


Question: Do oopiods affect your breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate?

Answer: Examples of opioids are: Codeine Fentanyl Hydrocodone Methadone Morphine Oxycodone Oxymorphone Tapentadol Opioids can slow your breathing, and lower your heart rate and blood pressure, so talk to your doctor and make sure these medications are safe for you, especially if you're taking other medications.


Question: What are examples of opioids?

Answer: Examples of opioids are: Codeine Fentanyl Hydrocodone Methadone Morphine Oxycodone Oxymorphone Tapentadol Opioids can slow your breathing, and lower your heart rate and blood pressure, so talk to your doctor and make sure these medications are safe for you, especially if you're taking other medications.


Question: What are short-acting opioids?

Answer: The short-acting kind often have an opioid as the only pain medicine or a combination of an opioid and another type of pain reliever, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. It can take 15 to 30 minutes for you to feel relief, which should last for 3 to 4 hours. You can also use short-acting opioids with a long-acting treatment as ârescue medicationâ for times when the pain is very bad.


Question: What are symptoms of opioid addiction?

Answer: Opioids are narcotics, which block feelings of pain. Common side effects include: Constipation Drowsiness Nausea Thought and memory problems Vomiting It's common to develop a dependence on certain medications if you use them for a long time. If you physically depend on a medication, you'll have withdrawal symptoms if you stop using it. Symptoms of opioid withdrawal include: Restlessness Muscle and bone pain Insomnia Diarrhea Vomiting Chills with goose bumps Involuntary leg movements Dependence often goes hand-in-hand with tolerance, which is the need to take higher doses of a medication to get the same effect. If you are addicted, you: Can't stop taking the drug Feel anxious, moody, depressed, or uninterested in things Spend all your money on drugs Lie, hide, or steal because of drugs Slur your speech or feel agitated Neglect work, family, and your appearance Dependence and tolerance are common among people who take opioids, but a person taking opioids can become physically dependent without being addicted.


Question: How do short- and long-acting opioids differ?

Answer: Opioids are narcotics, which block feelings of pain. It can take 15 to 30 minutes for you to feel relief, which should last for 3 to 4 hours. They help with pain from serious injury or surgery, and they're usually prescribed for pain that lasts only a few days. If you've had moderate to severe pain for a long time, your doctor can give you something with a longer-lasting effect. These can give you steady relief for 8 to 12 hours and are taken on a regular schedule. You can also use short-acting opioids with a long-acting treatment as ârescue medicationâ for times when the pain is very bad.


Question: What are the symptoms of opioid withdrawal?

Answer: Opioids are narcotics, which block feelings of pain. Common side effects include: Constipation Drowsiness Nausea Thought and memory problems Vomiting It's common to develop a dependence on certain medications if you use them for a long time. If you physically depend on a medication, you'll have withdrawal symptoms if you stop using it. Symptoms of opioid withdrawal include: Restlessness Muscle and bone pain Insomnia Diarrhea Vomiting Chills with goose bumps Involuntary leg movements Dependence often goes hand-in-hand with tolerance, which is the need to take higher doses of a medication to get the same effect.


Question: What should I do if I have narcolepsy?

Answer: Narcolepsy People with narcolepsy fall asleep when they don't want to. Taking scheduled naps can help such as taking a nap before important events. Your doctor may also prescribe a medication to help you stay awake and treat the sudden loss of muscle control when you wake up.


Question: What medicines can help with treating restless legs syndrome?

Answer: Prescription medicines that might help include: carbidopa-levodopa ( Sinemet) clonazepam ( Klonopin) gabapentin enacarbil ( Horizant) gabapentin ( Neurontin) pramipexole ( Mirapex) pregabalin ( Lyrica) rotigotine ( Neupro) ropinirole ( Requip) These may have side effects, so talk about the pros and cons with your doctor.


Question: Will exercise help me sleep better?

Answer: Maintaining good sleep hygiene is important Exercise helps you sleep better at any age. Elderly people who don't sleep well at night may find afternoon naps helpful. Don't nap too much, or it will make it harder to sleep at night. Get outside in the sunlight during the day, particularly in the morning, too.


Question: What should I do if my kid has nightmares and night terrors?

Answer: Nightmares and Night Terrors If your child has a nightmare or night terror, comfort them. If they have those dreams often or if they're severe, tell your child's doctor.


Question: What is CPAP?

Answer: With CPAP, you wear a mask while you sleep, and it raises the air pressure inside your throat. This keeps your airway more open, so you can sleep better. You'll need to go to a sleep lab to get a CPAP prescription and follow-up.


Question: What should I do to sleep better while pregnant?

Answer: It's normal to not sleep well during pregnancy. Take afternoon naps, drink warm milk, or relax in a warm (not hot) bath before bedtime. Exercise during the day should help, too. Check with your doctor before starting an exercise program.


Question: How long does a sleep lab test last?

Answer: If you've already tried things like allowing enough time for sleep and making your bedroom a good place for rest, your doctor may suggest you go to a sleep lab for more tests. This may take a night or two.


Question: How does age affect sleep?

Answer: A sleep specialist will review the results and tell you what they mean. Changes in the sleep pattern are part of the normal aging process and are not necessarily associated with a sleep disorder. Maintaining good sleep hygiene is important Exercise helps you sleep better at any age.


Question: Is it normal to have heavy periods?

Answer: Others may start to have heavy periods after having normal periods for years or decades. It's always wise to discuss your heavy periods with your doctor, especially if the problem is new for you. It could lead to anemia (low levels of red blood cells), which can make you feel weak, tired, or out of breath. Women who have menorrhagia may have to: Change pads or tampons at least once an hour for an entire day or more Change pads in the middle of the night Wear two pads at a time to manage heavy flow They may also: Skip things they like doing, due to painful cramps Pass blood clots that are the size of quarters Have periods that last longer than 7 days Feel tired or short of breath Bleed between periods Bleed after menopause There are many reasons why some women have heavy periods.


Question: How can a hysterectomy help with a heavy period?

Answer: In extreme cases, you may need this surgery, which will remove your uterus. You won't get your period anymore, but you also won't be able to get pregnant.


Question: What health problems can cause a heavy period?

Answer: Women who have any of these conditions may have heavy periods: Endometriosis Thyroid problems Pelvic inflammatory disease ( PID) Kidney disease Liver disease Your doctor will ask about your health history, and she'll want you to describe your symptoms.


Question: Why is my period so heavy?

Answer: But it's not common to have the medical condition known as menorrhagia, which means âheavy periods.â If you have this problem, your flow will be so heavy that you'll need to change your tampon or pad every hour for at least an entire day, and you'll also have cramps so severe that they'll stop you from doing your usual activities. Heavy periods are sometimes caused by subtle health problems, and they can lead to other health issues. If you soak through a pad or tampon every hour or so on a regular basis, talk with your doctor. She may be able to help.


Question: What can I do if I have a heavy period?

Answer: Women who have menorrhagia may have to: Change pads or tampons at least once an hour for an entire day or more Change pads in the middle of the night Wear two pads at a time to manage heavy flow They may also: Skip things they like doing, due to painful cramps Pass blood clots that are the size of quarters Have periods that last longer than 7 days Feel tired or short of breath Bleed between periods Bleed after menopause There are many reasons why some women have heavy periods.


Question: How can problems related to pregnancy cause a heavy period?

Answer: In rare cases, after sperm and egg meet, the growing ball of cells implants itself outside the uterus instead of inside. This is called an ectopic pregnancy. It can't ever be a viable pregnancy, and it may cause serious health problems, such as heavy bleeding, which you may mistake for a heavy period. A miscarriage, which is when an unborn baby dies in the womb, can also be the cause of heavy bleeding.


Question: How can growths in the uterus cause a heavy period?

Answer: Polyps are growths within the lining of the uterus. Fibroids are benign (non-cancerous) tumors that grow within the uterus. Both can make your periods much heavier or make them last longer than they should.


Question: How can hormone problems cause a heavy period?

Answer: Every month, a lining builds up inside your uterus (womb), which you shed during your period. If your hormone levels aren't balanced, your body can make the lining too thick, which leads to heavy bleeding when you shed the thicker lining. If you don't ovulate (release an egg from an ovary), this can throw off the hormone balance in the body, too, leading to a thicker lining and a heavier period.


Question: How can birth control help with a heavy period?

Answer: If you don't ovulate (release an egg from an ovary), this can throw off the hormone balance in the body, too, leading to a thicker lining and a heavier period. Getting an IUD that emits hormones is another choice that can help lighten your periods.


Question: How can bleeding disorders cause a heavy period?

Answer: Both can make your periods much heavier or make them last longer than they should. Bleeding disorders.


Question: How can certain intrauterine devices (IUDs) cause a heavy period?

Answer: They can also make a woman's period heavier and make it last longer. You'll still need to use birth control because these treatments aren't a form of contraception.


Question: How can surgery help with a heavy period?

Answer: But it's not common to have the medical condition known as menorrhagia, which means âheavy periods.â If you have this problem, your flow will be so heavy that you'll need to change your tampon or pad every hour for at least an entire day, and you'll also have cramps so severe that they'll stop you from doing your usual activities. Bleeding disorders.


Question: How can certain drugs help treat a heavy period?

Answer: Your doctor may be able to treat your heavy periods with these methods: Birth control options. You may only need to take the medication when you have your period.


Question: What food should you pay attention to if you have Crohn's disease?

Answer: Keep track of foods that affect your bowels. They don't cause Crohn's, but some dishes may make symptoms worse. For example, many people with Crohn's have to avoid high-fiber foods like seeds, nuts, popcorn, corn, and raw fruits and vegetables. Some have to stay away from spicy, fried, and greasy foods, too. A food diary can help you track what gives you problems, so that it's easier for you to stay away from them. Ask your doctor about working with a registered dietitian ( RD). They can review your food diary to decide if you're eating a balanced diet. He can also help plan your meals so you get all the nutrients you need.


Question: What is it like when you first learn you have Crohn's disease?

Answer: When you find out you have Crohn's disease, you may wonder how it'll affect your daily life. With the right information, you can learn how to manage your symptoms and keep doing the things you love.


Question: What should you pay attention to when you start treatment for Crohn's disease?

Answer: As you start treatment, keep track of the symptoms you have and when you have them. Do you always get diarrhea after you eat? Do your symptoms happen at a certain time of day? If you know when you're more likely to have issues, you can plan your day around it.


Question: Where can you learn more about Crohn's disease?

Answer: Where is the doctor's office? When you have a serious health condition like Crohn's, it's important to find out all you can about it. Your doctor should be your first resource. Write down your questions before your visit. You can also ask a relative or friend to come with you to your appointments and help you remember what your doctor said.


Question: How can stress affect your Crohn's disease?

Answer: With the right information, you can learn how to manage your symptoms and keep doing the things you love. Where is the doctor's office? They can also be there for you during flare ups when you need help with things like grocery shopping, child care, or getting to a doctor's appointment. Tai chi, yoga, or meditation can work, too.


Question: How should you inform your workplace about Crohn's disease?

Answer: This will help them understand when you must miss work or take frequent bathroom breaks. Learn about the Family and Medical Leave Act. It protects you from job discrimination. Talk to your doctor if you still feel stressed.


Question: What questions should you consider when choosing a doctor to treat Crohn's disease?

Answer: You can also find one through the: American College of Gastroenterology American Gastroenterological Association Crohn's & Colitis Foundation of America As you choose a doctor, consider: How many people with IBD does this doctor see each year? You want to work with someone who sees a lot of people with Crohn's. They'll understand what's involved in treating people with this condition and know more about prescription medications to control the disease. Does your insurance cover the treatment? Call your provider and your doctor's office to make sure. You may also need to check if your doctor's âin network.â If not, you'll probably pay more for the visit. Where is the doctor's office? If possible, choose a doctor near your home. Crohn's can be hard to talk about. Because it affects so many parts of your life, it's important to choose a doctor you're comfortable with. Which hospital or treatment center does the doctor work with? You may want to choose a treatment place at the same time you select a doctor. Not everyone with Crohn's disease will need to go to the hospital. It's better to pick a place when you feel well than when you're in the middle of a flare. If you do feel pressured, exercise can help.


Question: How can you plan ahead for Crohn's disease?

Answer: You can also ask a relative or friend to come with you to your appointments and help you remember what your doctor said. They can also be there for you during flare ups when you need help with things like grocery shopping, child care, or getting to a doctor's appointment. As you start treatment, keep track of the symptoms you have and when you have them. Be sure you find out where the restrooms are in public places like restaurants, shopping malls, and highway rest areas. Pack a travel kit that includes: Underwear Toilet tissue Wet wipes A couple of zip-top plastic bags Deodorizer You may never need it. But it will give you peace of mind when you're away from home.


Question: What should I keep in a Crohn's travel kit?

Answer: That will help them understand why you need to use the bathroom so often or other things like why you may not feel up to socializing. Pack a travel kit that includes: Underwear Toilet tissue Wet wipes A couple of zip-top plastic bags Deodorizer You may never need it. But it will give you peace of mind when you're away from home.


Question: Should you use a registered dietitian if you have Crohn's disease?

Answer: You can also ask a relative or friend to come with you to your appointments and help you remember what your doctor said. They can review your food diary to decide if you're eating a balanced diet. He can also help plan your meals so you get all the nutrients you need.


Question: Should I talk to my friends and family about my Crohn's disease?

Answer: When you have a serious health condition like Crohn's, it's important to find out all you can about it. Let them know it can cause pain and diarrhea. That will help them understand why you need to use the bathroom so often or other things like why you may not feel up to socializing. When people know what you're going through, you can turn to them for support and reassurance. They can also be there for you during flare ups when you need help with things like grocery shopping, child care, or getting to a doctor's appointment.


Question: When do growing pains usually hit?

Answer: The pain is usually felt in the late afternoon and evening, right before dinner time, and at bedtime. The leg pains may hurt so much that they may wake your child from sleep. If your child seems perfectly fine in the morning, don't be quick to think he or she was faking. Growing pains disappear in the morning. They usually do not interfere with the child's ability to play sports or be active.


Question: When are leg pains not  growing pains?

Answer: Call your child's doctor or nurse if leg pain occurs with the following symptoms. They aren't symptoms of growing pains, but your doctor will need to examine your child and run tests: injury, such as a fall fever loss of appetite limping or difficulty walking rash red, warm, painful, swollen joints tiredness weakness weight loss And of course, call your doctor if you have any other concerns.


Question: How can I ease my child's growing pains?

Answer: Stretching the leg muscles. This may be difficult for younger kids. Placing a warm cloth or heating pad on the sore leg. Be careful not to burn the skin and do not use during sleep. If the pain does not get better, ask your health care provider if it's OK to give your child an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Ask about the appropriate dose for your child. Never give aspirin to a child. Aspirin use in children has been linked to a life-threatening disease called Reye's syndrome.


Question: How do I know my child has growing pains and not something else?

Answer: When deciding whether to call the doctor, it's important to remember that growing pains are almost always felt in both legs. Pain that is only in one leg may be a sign of a more serious condition. Call your health care provider if this happens. It's also important to remember that growing pains affect muscles, not joints. And they do not cause limping or fever.


Question: How do growing pains affect children?

Answer: Growing pains are different for everyone. Some kids have a lot of pain, others do not. Most kids do not have pain every day. Growing pains can come and go. They may be experienced for months or even years. Most kids outgrow growing pains within a few years.


Question: Do growing pains affect children later in life?

Answer: Studies suggest that children who have growing pains may be more sensitive to pain. Children who have growing pains are also more likely to have headaches and abdominal pain.


Question: What's causing my child's growing pains?

Answer: Despite the name "growing pains," there is no firm evidence that growing pains are linked to growth spurts. Instead, growing pains may simply be muscle aches due to intense childhood activities that can wear your child's muscles out. These activities include running, jumping, and climbing. Growing pains seem to be more common after a kid has a particularly full day of sports.


Question: Which body parts are affected by growing pains?

Answer: In general, growing pains are felt in both legs, especially in the front of the thighs, back of legs (calves), or behind the knees.


Question: How will the doctor diagnose my child's growing pains?

Answer: He or she may have growing pains. A doctor can usually diagnose growing pains by examining your child and asking questions about his or her medical history and symptoms. It is important to rule out any other possible causes of the pain before making the diagnosis of growing pains. This is why it is important to see the doctor if you think your child has growing pains or any limb pain.


Question: I'm pregnant. When should I get medical attention about my asthma symptoms?

Answer: Symptoms of an acute asthma attack in pregnancy include: Shortnes of breath Wheezing with fluids or mucus. Difficulty talking, walking, or thinking because of shortness of breath Neck and ribs moving in during breathing Blue- or gray-looking skin Peak flow reading below 60% of personal best Decrease in fetal kick count if the baby is in distress 2.


Question: What are the first drugs commonly used to treat children with ADHD and how do they work?

Answer: The first drugs doctors commonly used to treat children with ADHD are stimulant medicines such as: Dexmethylphenidate ( Focalin) Dextroamphetamine ( Adderall) Lisdexamfetamine ( Vyvanse) Methylphenidate ( Concerta, Quillivant, Ritalin) It is thought that these medicines improve ADHD symptoms by making more of the chemical dopamine available to the brain. Dopamine is found in areas of the brain that control mood and attention.


Question: Which nonstimulants are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children?

Answer: Doctors may also consider prescribing a nonstimulant drug such as atomoxetine ( Strattera), clonidine ( Kapvay), or guanfacine ( Intuniv). They mainly affect a different chemical, norepinephrine, which is also involved in attention, mood, and impulse control. Other ADHD drugs include: Armodafinil ( Nuvigil). A drug that promotes wakefulness and can improve attention, but carries a potential risk for serious skin rashes in children. Bupropion ( Wellbutrin). An antidepressant that may help attention. Clonidine ( Kapvay). A high blood pressure medicine that can improve attention. Guanfacine ( Intuniv). A high blood pressure medicine that can improve attention. Venlafaxine ( Effexor). An antidepressant that has been shown to improve attention in small studies.


Question: What are the side effects of titration for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Answer: They can depend on the medication your child is prescribed. Stimulant medications are the ones most often prescribed. Common side effects of these can include: Less appetite Weight loss Trouble sleeping Stomachache Headache Dizziness Personality changes (seems sad, too quiet, or zombie-like or irritable) Always call your child's doctor right away if you're concerned or worried about side effects.


Question: What are other attention deficit hyperactivity disorder drugs are used for treatment?

Answer: Other ADHD drugs include: Armodafinil ( Nuvigil). A drug that promotes wakefulness and can improve attention, but carries a potential risk for serious skin rashes in children. Bupropion ( Wellbutrin). An antidepressant that may help attention. Clonidine ( Kapvay). A high blood pressure medicine that can improve attention. Guanfacine ( Intuniv). A high blood pressure medicine that can improve attention. Venlafaxine ( Effexor). An antidepressant that has been shown to improve attention in small studies. Each of these drugs can have side effects. Some of these can take up to 6 weeks to start working.


Question: How can monitoring your child help with titration for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Answer: ADHD medications affect every child differently. That's why it's important to watch your child for improvements and side effects during titration.


Question: What are the rare side effects of titration for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Answer: Heart problems, liver problems, hallucinations (like seeing small bugs, hearing things, becoming suspicious, or having strange feelings on their skin), agitation, and suicidal thoughts can happen, rarely, with some ADHD medications.


Question: When should you call your doctor about the side effects of titration for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Answer: Common side effects of these can include: Less appetite Weight loss Trouble sleeping Stomachache Headache Dizziness Personality changes (seems sad, too quiet, or zombie-like or irritable) Always call your child's doctor right away if you're concerned or worried about side effects. One example could be that your child develops tics. These can be small repetitive body motions like blinking or grimacing. Call especially if a side effect is getting worse. Do this instead of trying to take them off a medication yourself. If you stop medications suddenly, it can have dangerous side effects. Your child's doctor can usually fix side effects. She can lower the dose, change the times they are taken, or even switch medicines.


Question: How can taking notes help with titration for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Answer: After your child has been taking the ADHD medicine for at least 1 week, you and your child's teachers should track ADHD symptoms. Your doctor may even give you special forms, called rating scales, to help with this. You and the teachers should be alert for and report any side effects that happen during treatment.


Question: How long does it take to find the right dosage balance for ADHD medication?

Answer: It can take time to find the right balance -- sometimes many weeks. But it is worth it. The doctor will usually tell you to give your child slightly more medicine every 1 to 3 weeks. They will continue this until your child's ADHD symptoms are controlled or they get side effects. ADHD medication dosages should always be planned just for the needs of your child. There's no blanket treatment plan that works for everyone with ADHD.