Question: What are complications of swimmer's ear?

Answer: Most of the time, your ear fights off the germs that cause swimmer's ear on its own. But sometimes, it can get worse or lead to other problems, such as: Long-term swimmer's ear (chronic otitis externa). This is when swimmer's ear doesn't go away within 3 months. It can happen if you have hard-to-treat bacteria, fungus, allergies, or skin conditions like psoriasis or eczema. Your doctor may need to test a sample of any fluid in your ear to help you decide on the best treatment. Other infections. Sometimes, the bacteria can spread deeper into your skin or to other parts of your body. One rare condition is malignant otitis externa, which happens when the infection moves into bone and cartilage in your head. It's a medical emergency, and it's most common in older people with diabetes and people with HIV or other immune system problems. Treatment for these infections is with more powerful antibiotics, either by mouth or through a needle ( IV).


Question: What is emergency contraception?

Answer: It's for use after unprotected sex or if your condom breaks. It can prevent pregnancy up to 3 to 5 days later, although the sooner you take it, the better. Most emergency contraception products are so-called "morning after" pills, but the copper- T IUD works as emergency contraception, too. Women who are overweight or obese who want emergency contraception should consider using the copper T IUD, since research shows that emergency contraception pills start to lose effectiveness for them.


Question: How are calcium channel blockers used for heart failure?

Answer: Calcium channel blockers are prescribed to treat angina (chest pain) and high blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers generally should not be used if you have heart failure due to systolic dysfunction.


Question: How do I know if postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is right for me to treat hot flashes?

Answer: Do you have abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as extremely heavy periods or spotting between periods? Do you have a history of endometrial or uterine cancer? Do you currently have, or have you in the past had, venous thrombosis (blood clots in the lungs or veins)? This includes thrombosis or blood clots during pregnancy or when taking birth control pills. Do you have chronic liver disease? Do you smoke? Do you have gallbladder disease? Yes No If you answered yes to any of the above questions, HRT may not be for you.


Question: What are the side effects of antidepressants?

Answer: Antidepressants are medications used to treat depression. You are usually monitored closely during this time to detect the development of side effects and to determine the effectiveness of treatment. You should never discontinue any medication without talking to your doctor about it first.


Question: Who can take dulaglutide (Trulicity)?

Answer: You take it in combination with metformin or a sulfonylurea drug. Who can take it: Adults with type 2 diabetes who have not had success with other diabetes treatment. If you're planning to get pregnant, tell your doctor, since researchers haven't studied this drug in pregnant women.


Question: Who can take pramlintide (Symlin)?

Answer: Who can take it: It's approved for people with type 1 diabetes who are taking mealtime insulin. If you're planning to get pregnant, tell your doctor, since researchers haven't studied this drug in pregnant women.


Question: Can I take dulaglutide (Trulicity) to treat my diabetes?

Answer: You take it in combination with metformin or a sulfonylurea drug. Who can take it: Adults with type 2 diabetes who have not had success with other diabetes treatment. If you're planning to get pregnant, tell your doctor, since researchers haven't studied this drug in pregnant women.


Question: What is exenatide (Bydureon, Byetta)?

Answer: You take it as a shot twice daily. Bydureon is the newer, extended-release version, which you inject once a week. You can't take both drugs. What it is: This is another GLP-1 drug.


Question: What are the side effects of exenatide (Bydureon, Byetta) when treating my diabetes?

Answer: Side effects: The most common ones include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, feeling jittery, dizziness, headache, acid stomach, constipation, and weakness. These usually go away after the first month of treatment. Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), which may be severe, is another side effect. The FDA has also received reports of kidney failure in people taking this drug. All GLP-1 drugs, including both types of exenatide, have a boxed warning noting that in animal studies, this type of drug has been linked to thyroid cancer in some rats and mice. Experts don't know whether it has the same effect in people. It's possible to have an allergic reaction to liraglutide, or to get low blood sugar while you're taking it.


Question: Can I take pramlintide (Symlin) to treat my diabetes?

Answer: Who can take it: It's approved for people with type 1 diabetes who are taking mealtime insulin. If you're planning to get pregnant, tell your doctor, since researchers haven't studied this drug in pregnant women.


Question: Can I take exenatide (Bydureon, Byetta) to treat my diabetes?

Answer: Who can take it: Adults who have type 2 diabetes and haven't had success with other treatment. If you think you might get pregnant, talk to your doctor. Researchers haven't studied this drug in pregnant women.


Question: Is protein better than carbohydrates for diabetes?

Answer: Have you heard that eating too much sugar causes diabetes? Choose foods that work along with your activities and any medications you take. They do affect your blood sugar levels, which is why you'll need to keep up with how many you eat each day. Keep an eye on your portion size too. Talk to your dietitian or doctor about how much protein is right for you.


Question: Does too much sugar cause diabetes?

Answer: Have you heard that eating too much sugar causes diabetes? The truth is that diabetes begins when something disrupts your body's ability to turn the food you eat into energy.


Question: Are all carbohydrates bad for diabetes?

Answer: Carbs are the foundation of a healthy diet whether you have diabetes or not. They do affect your blood sugar levels, which is why you'll need to keep up with how many you eat each day. Some carbs have vitamins, minerals, and fiber. So choose those ones, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Starchy, sugary carbs are not a great choice because they have less to offer. They're more like a flash in the pan than fuel your body can rely on. The foods that are good for people with diabetes are also healthy choices for the rest of your family.


Question: Are diet foods the best choice for diabetes?

Answer: Keep in mind, there might be a few carbs in these. Read the labels to find out if the ingredients and number of calories are good choices for you. When in doubt, ask your doctor, diabetes educator, or a dietitian for advice.


Question: What nutrients can help with rheumatoid arthritis and where can you get it?

Answer: Could eating like a caveman help with your rheumatoid arthritis? The idea is to flood your body with nutrient-rich foods and stay away from ones that might make your condition worse. Certain nutrients can help repair and protect it: Vitamin B5:potatoes, beans, bananas, turkey, fish, and liver Vitamin B6:chickpeas, chicken, pork, trout, sunflower seeds, spinach, tomatoes Copper: oysters, squid, and other seafood; beef liver; cashews and other nuts; soybeans; lentils; cocoa Zinc: lobster, chicken, beans, raisins, chickpeas, yogurt, cheese Some chemicals found in plants called flavonoids may help make your joints feel better.


Question: What are signs of a brain injury that I should I see a doctor about?

Answer: Not every hit to the head will result in a TBI, but if you have any concerns, see your doctor. TBIs can cause any number of problems. You may not be able to think or communicate well, and it can dull your sensory skills. Be on the lookout for changes in these areas, among others: Anxiety Depression Memory Muscle function Poor judgment Sight Sound Smell Taste Touch Understanding TBIs can increase the risk of brain diseases, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.


Question: What medications treat osteoarthritis?

Answer: The first step with medication is often over-the-counter pain relievers as needed. If over-the-counter treatments aren't effective, your doctor may decide to prescribe a stronger anti-inflammatory drug or other medication to help ease the pain. Some medications in the form of creams, rubs, or sprays may be applied over the skin of affected areas to relieve pain. For some people with persistent pain despite these pills or creams, steroids can be injected directly into the joint. Injections of hyaluronic acid directly into the knee joint can relieve pain in some people with osteoarthritis. Unfortunately, none of these will reverse or slow the progression of joint damage caused by osteoarthritis.


Question: What type of surgery do you get for osteoarthritis?

Answer: They include: Arthroscopy to clean out the damaged cartilage or repair tissues. Recent evidence has questioned its effectiveness for osteoarthritis. Joint replacement surgery to replace the damaged joint with an artificial one. The two joints most often replaced are the hip and the knee. Joint fusion to remove the damaged joint and fuse the two bones on each side of the joint.


Question: How do you treat osteoarthritis?

Answer: Osteoarthritis usually is treated by a combination of treatments, including exercise, weight loss if needed, medications, physical therapy with muscle strengthening exercises, hot and cold compresses to the painful joint, removal of joint fluid, injection of medications into the joint, and use of supportive devices such as crutches or canes. Surgery may be helpful to relieve pain when other treatment options have not been effective. The type of treatment will depend on several factors, including your age, activities and occupation, overall health, medical history, location of your osteoarthritis, and severity of the condition. Acupuncture has also been shown to provide significant and immediate pain relief in some people with osteoarthritis.


Question: How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

Answer: The diagnosis of osteoarthritis is based on a combination of the following factors: Your description of symptoms The location and pattern of pain Physical exam X-rays Your doctor may use X-rays to help confirm the diagnosis and make sure you don't have another type of arthritis. Sometimes, blood tests will be performed to determine if you have a different type of arthritis. If fluid has accumulated in the joints, your doctor may remove some of the fluid (called joint aspiration) for examination under a microscope to rule out other diseases.


Question: How can you keep cool during a workout when you have eczema?

Answer: When you exercise, your body heats up, and heat can make your eczema worse. Split up your workouts. Stop and give your body a chance to cool down. Then start again. Drink lots of water. Always have a bottle handy. Some have a mister that allows you to spray your skin, too. Don't overdo it. If it's hot out, stay in an air-conditioned spot indoors. Stick to less strenuous workouts and do it before 11 a.m. or after 5 when it's cooler. But take some precautions. Not all of these tips will apply to you.


Question: What precautions should you take if you swim when you have eczema?

Answer: In general, swimming is good exercise if you have eczema. Slather on lotion before you swim. It will help act as a barrier to prevent dryness. Follow with a sunscreen if you're outside. Before you spend an hour in a new pool, take a quick dip and see how your skin does. Some people have a bad reaction to chlorine and other pool chemicals. Swim in clean pools. You're less likely to have a flare-up if the water's p H levels are neutral.


Question: What are the side effects of very low-calorie diets?

Answer: People on a very low-calorie diet for 4 to 16 weeks report minor side effects such as fatigue, constipation, nausea, and diarrhea. These conditions usually improve within a few weeks and rarely prevent people from completing the program. Gallstones are the most common serious side effect of very low-calorie diets. The liver then secretes more cholesterol and when combined with bile, can form gallstones.


Question: How many calories a day do you usually get if you're on a low-calorie diet?

Answer: Many very low-calorie diets are commercially-made formulas of 800 calories or fewer that replace all the food you usually eat. Talk to your doctor or dietitian to make sure you get the nutrients you need while on a very low-calorie diet.


Question: What is treatment for essential tremor?

Answer: Essential tremor is a movement disorder characterized by uncontrollable shaking (tremors) in different parts and on different sides of the body. There is no cure for essential tremor, but treatments that provide relief from its symptoms may be helpful in improving quality of life. These include medications, MRI-focused ultrasound, and surgical procedures that ease tremor. Not every treatment or procedure is effective for every person with ET, but most patients find satisfactory relief. Your doctor will recommend an individualized treatment plan, including certain lifestyle changes that may help to reduce your tremors.


Question: What tests determine the stage of esophageal cancer?

Answer: To diagnose esophageal cancer, your doctor will review your symptoms, medical history, and examine you. Other tests, including computed tomography ( CT) scans, positron emission tomography ( PET) scan, thoracoscopy, and laparoscopy, may be performed to determine if the cancer has spread, or metastasized, outside of the esophagus.


Question: What are the stages of esophageal cancer?

Answer: The stages are: Stage 0 . Abnormal cells (not yet cancer) are found only in the layer of cells that line the esophagus. Cancer cells are found only in the layer of cells that line the esophagus. The cancer has reached the muscle layer or the outer wall of the esophagus. In addition, the cancer may have spread to 1 to 2 nearby lymph nodes (small glands that are part of the immune system). The cancer has reached deeper into the inner muscle layer or the connective tissue wall. It may have spread beyond the esophagus into surrounding organ and/or has spread to more lymph nodes near the esophagus. Stage IV .


Question: What is esophageal cancer?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Esophageal cancer occurs when cancer cells develop in the esophagus, a tube-like structure that runs from your throat to your stomach. Squamous cells line the inner esophagus, and cancer developing from squamous cells can occur along the entire esophagus. This is cancer that develops from gland cells. This typically occurs in the lower esophagus near the stomach and is believed to be largely related to acid exposure to the lower esophagus. Unfortunately, by the time esophageal cancer is diagnosed for many people, it is often already in an advanced stage (has spread throughout the esophagus and beyond).


Question: How do you diagnose esophageal cancer?

Answer: To diagnose esophageal cancer, your doctor will review your symptoms, medical history, and examine you. In addition, he or she may order certain blood tests and X-rays. Tests for esophageal cancer may include: Barium swallow X-ray, in which you drink a liquid that coats your esophagus. Endoscopy: the doctor passes an endoscope, a thin, lighted tube, down your throat into your esophagus to examine it. Endoscopic ultrasound uses sound waves to provide more information about the extent of tumor involvement in nearby tissues. Biopsy: during an endoscopy, the doctor can take cells or tissue from your esophagus. This process is called "staging."


Question: How can you treat esophageal cancer?

Answer: Treatment of esophageal cancer depends on many factors, including the stage of the cancer and the overall health of the patient. Options include surgery, photodynamic therapy, radiofrequency ablation, or endoscopic muscosal resection.


Question: What are SSRIs?

Answer: They're called âselectiveâ serotonin reuptake inhibitors because they specifically target serotonin. Before starting on an SSRI, make sure to tell your doctor all the different kinds of medications and supplements you're taking.


Question: How can acid solutions treat genital warts?

Answer: You should also avoid sex while imiquimod is on your skin because it can weaken condoms and diaphragms. If you use too much or don't let it air dry, you could spread the gel to other areas and cause irritation to skin areas. If you have vaginal or cervical warts, the recommended treatments are: Cryotherapy or liquid nitrogen Surgical removal Acid solution If you have warts in your urethra (the tube that carries urine from the kidneys to your bladder), your best treatment options are cryotherapy or surgical removal.


Question: What is hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)?

Answer: This leads to stiffening of the walls of the heart and abnormal aortic and mitral heart valve function, both of which may impede normal blood flow out of the heart. During this surgical procedure, the surgeon removes a small amount of the thickened septal wall of the heart to widen the outflow tract (the path the blood takes) from the left ventricle to the aorta.


Question: What causes hypoxia?

Answer: A severe asthma attack, or flare, can cause hypoxia in adults and kids. Hypoxia can also result from lung damage due to trauma. Other things can cause hypoxia include: Lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD), emphysema, bronchitis, pneumonia, and pulmonary edema (fluid in the lungs) Strong pain medicines and other drugs that hold back breathing Heart problems Anemia (a low number of red blood cells, which carry oxygen) Cyanide poisoning ( Cyanide is a chemical used to make plastics and other products.)


Question: What is a medically induced coma?

Answer: Medically induced: This type of temporary coma, or deep state of unconsciousness, is used to protect the brain from swelling after an injury. This happens only in hospital intensive care units.


Question: Is there effective treatment for a coma?

Answer: Treatment for a coma depends on the cause. For example, if there is an infection that's affecting the brain, antibiotics may be needed. Glucose may be required in the event of a diabetic shock. Surgery may also be necessary to relieve the pressure on the brain due to swelling or to remove a tumor. Certain drugs may also help relieve the swelling.


Question: What causes a coma?

Answer: Brain injury can be due to increased pressure, bleeding, loss of oxygen, or buildup of toxins. This is a brain condition caused by total lack of oxygen to the brain.


Question: What are tips for someone with aphasia?

Answer: Blood sugar : In people with diabetes, coma can occur when blood sugar levels stay very high. Certain drugs may also help relieve the swelling.


Question: Do NSAIDs all work the same way?

Answer: Some NSAIDs also may be more convenient, since you only need to take them once or twice a day. But you and your doctor can lower your risk of having side effects from NSAIDs.


Question: Can I use scented baby products for a newborn?

Answer: Don't use Scented baby products in the early months. Use only baby laundry detergents that are fragrance- and dye-free.


Question: How often should I bathe my baby?

Answer: Too-frequent bathing -- more than three times per week during the first year of life -- removes the natural oils that protect baby's skin. That may leave baby's skin vulnerable and dry. In between, simply clean baby's mouth and diaper area with a little water or cleanser. Once-a-week sponge baths (or even less) are best for newborns with darker skin tones (like African- American). Most newborn skin problems, such as eczema or diaper rash, don't develop for the first month or two. Don't rub.


Question: How can you prevent baby eczema and diaper rash?

Answer: For the first month or so, a sponge bath two or three times a week will keep your baby safely clean. A few tips on preventing dry, irritated skin and eczema: Try once-a-week bathing. Limit your use of baby scented skin products. If her skin is dry, use only ointment or lotion on dry skin areas. Make sure baby wears only soft clothing, preferably cotton.


Question: How should I care for my newborn baby's skin?

Answer: Here are tips to help protect your baby from developing allergies and rashes: Resist the urge to bathe your baby frequently. Too-frequent bathing -- more than three times per week during the first year of life -- removes the natural oils that protect baby's skin. That may leave baby's skin vulnerable and dry. Use only baby laundry detergents that are fragrance- and dye-free. Wash baby clothes, bedding, and blankets separately from the family's laundry. Limit your use of baby scented skin products.


Question: How is diabetes insipidus treated?

Answer: Central diabetes insipidus. First, the doctor will tell you to drink plenty of fluids. You'll take medications like desmopressin ( DDAVP) or vasopressin ( Pitressin). It usually comes as a nasal spray. There are also treatments to help these drugs work better. Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus can be harder to treat. If it's caused by a drug, stopping the medicine helps. Other medicines may improve the symptoms.


Question: What is diabetes insipidus?

Answer: Diabetes insipidus is a rare condition that causes your body to make a lot of urine that is "insipid," or colorless and odorless. When you're thirsty or slightly dehydrated, vasopressin levels rise. It usually comes as a nasal spray.


Question: What are the signs of diabetes insipidus?

Answer: You might notice: Extreme thirst Peeing a lot (your doctor might call this polyuria) Getting up to go a lot at night Preference for cold drinks Dehydration Unexplained weakness Muscle pains Irritability Your body makes a substance called vasopressin. Your kidneys can't retain water, so even if you're dehydrated, they'll put out a lot of pale urine.


Question: How serious is diabetes insipidus?

Answer: It tells your kidneys to hold on to water, which makes your urine more concentrated. Diabetes insipidus can lead to nocturia, a medical name for waking up in the night to pee. But you will be more prone to dehydration. Make sure you always have something to drink close by, especially when it's hot or when you exercise.


Question: How is diabetes insipidus diagnosed?

Answer: It tells your kidneys to hold on to water, which makes your urine more concentrated. You might get a series of tests that include: Urinalysis. This will measure the amount of electrolytes and glucose in your blood. You'll have this done in a hospital so doctors can make sure you don't get dehydrated.


Question: How can lightening work loads help manage stress?

Answer: Controlling your stress can improve your rest. Start asking others for help, and find ways to free up more of your time.


Question: How can changing your thoughts help you manage stress?

Answer: One common mistake is to focus on the way things "should" be. Another mistake is to make broad statements based on one small fact. ( Example: " I'm failing at my job because I had one food splurge.â) Many books can teach you how to improve your self-talk. They can help you address your stress and help you figure out what's causing it.


Question: What are the types of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Answer: Both can lead to AIDS. However, they're very different from each other. HIV-1 is the most common type. When you hear the term " HIV," it's probably HIV-1. HIV-2 occurs in a much smaller number of people, mostly in West Africa. In the U. S., it makes up only 0.01% of all HIV cases, and those are primarily people from West Africa. It's harder to transmit HIV-2 from person to person, and it takes longer for the infection to turn into AIDS. Researchers haven't named any strains for this group because there are so few cases of it.


Question: What is group M (Major) of the human immunodeficiency virus-1 (HIV-1)?

Answer: HIV-1 is the most common type. Your doctor can treat your HIV better if she knows what strain you have. Nearly 90% of all HIV-1 cases stem from this group. The group has nine named strains: A, B, C, D, F, G, H, J, and K. Some of these have sub-strains.


Question: How many viruses does the flu shot protect against?

Answer: This is why it's important to get a flu shot each year to ensure that your body develops immunity to the most recent strains of the virus. Today, Flu Mist and some traditional flu shots generally cover up to four strains: two Influenza A viruses and two Influenza B viruses. The avian influenza virus causes bird flu.


Question: What is a type A flu virus?

Answer: Wild birds commonly act as the hosts for this flu virus. Type A flu virus is constantly changing and is generally responsible for the large flu epidemics. The influenza A2 virus (and other variants of influenza) is spread by people who are already infected. The most common flu hot spots are those surfaces that an infected person has touched and rooms where he has been recently, especially areas where he has been sneezing. Birds are not capable of carrying either type B or C influenza viruses.


Question: How can you prevent dog bloat?

Answer: Vets aren't sure what causes bloat, but there are some things that raise a dog's risk for it, including: Eating from a raised food bowl Having one large meal a day Eating quickly A lot of running or playing after he eats Other dogs he's related to have had bloat Eating or drinking too much Stress Any dog can have bloat, but it's much more common in deep-chested, large breeds, like Akitas, Boxers, Basset Hounds, and German Shepherds. Don't let him run or play a lot right before or after meals. Feed him a few small meals throughout the day instead of one or two large ones. Make sure he drinks a normal amount of water. For predisposed breeds, your vet will sometimes tack the stomach when your dog gets spayed or neutered


Question: What happens in a doctor's appointment for vaginal bleeding after sex?

Answer: But the only way to know for sure is to see your doctor for a physical exam. She'll also want to know if you're having pain during sex, which can be a sign of inadequate lubrication or infection, depending on when it happens. Your doctor will give you a pelvic exam and look for any source of the bleeding, like vaginal tears or lesions, signs of pelvic organ prolapse, cervical polyps, or inflammation. If your doctor finds any polyps, she might be able to remove them in the office and send them to a lab for testing, or make a later appointment to have them surgically removed. During a Pap test, your doctor can swab your cervix to test for sexually transmitted infections like chlamydia and gonorrhea, which can cause bleeding after sex and are treated with antibiotics. The Pap test also detects any sign of abnormal, precancerous growths or cancer cells.


Question: What are types of emergency contraception pills?

Answer: There are 3 types of emergency contraception in pill form that are sold both with and without a prescription. You need to be 17 to buy them if a prescription is needed. Depending on the brand and dose, you might get 1 pill or 2. About 1 out of 5 women taking Ella, Plan B One- Step, and generics -- such as My Way -- feel queasy.


Question: What are tips to ease side effects from emergency contraception?

Answer: The most common side effect of the pill forms is upset stomach. Eat smaller but more frequent meals. It might help to suck on sugar-free hard candy, too. If your nausea or vomiting is severe, call your doctor. Taking medicine to calm your stomach for a day or two could help. If you throw up within a couple of hours of taking the pill, you should take another dose. You probably need to take anti-nausea medicine first. Check with your doctor.


Question: Is emergency contraception safe and effective?

Answer: The pill forms are safe. They contain the same hormones that are in birth control pills, which women have been using for decades. The copper- T IUD (intrauterine device) is also a very effective, safe way to prevent a pregnancy after sex. Research shows that Plan B One- Step starts to lose its effectiveness in women heavier than 165 pounds. It's not recommend for anyone over this weight -- instead, a copper- T IUD is the suggested option. You need a prescription to get it.


Question: How is insulin administered to treat diabetes?

Answer: Every person's body is different. Most people inject it into the fat of their skin. Your doctor will figure out how much you need to take each day to keep your body healthy. Some types of insulin act quickly. Or you might use an insulin pump or infuser. Your doctor puts these devices under your skin to give you insulin when you need it.


Question: What are the treatments for pleurisy?

Answer: Your doctor may also take X-rays of your chest. These X-rays will be normal if you have only pleurisy without fluid but may show fluid if you have a pleural effusion. In addition to this, your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or other pain medicines to remedy the inflammation. Sometimes, a codeine-based cough syrup will be prescribed to control a cough that can exacerbate pain. In the case of pleural effusion, your doctor will direct treatment towards the underlying cause of the fluid. Sometimes, if the pleural fluid is infected or the amount is excessive, the doctor may drain it through a tube inserted in your chest, a procedure that requires hospitalization.


Question: How do I find the cause of the problem with my tear ducts?

Answer: An infection in your eyes or nose can cause swelling. Once you know what's causing your excess tearing, you can start on a treatment to relieve it.


Question: Could an infection block my tear ducts?

Answer: This presses on and narrows the tear duct. Bacteria, fungi, and viruses like herpes can all make the area around your eyes and nose swell and block the ducts. A blockage in your tear duct can also lead to an infection when bacteria multiply in the narrowed tube. Any injury to your nose or eyes can cause swelling and scar tissue.


Question: What are the home treatments for nausea and vomiting?

Answer: He or she will ask about the severity and timing of your symptoms, as well as take a food history and ask if you have had any contact with sick people. Home treatments can help relieve nausea. If your nausea is chronic, you'll need to find a variety of vegetables and proteins that don't upset your stomach to maintain proper nutrition. Stay away from fried or greasy foods. Steer clear of sweets. Eat small meals and eat them slowly. Rest a while after eating with your head elevated.


Question: What is causing my nausea and vomiting?

Answer: He or she will ask about the severity and timing of your symptoms, as well as take a food history and ask if you have had any contact with sick people. You will also undergo a physical exam to look for causes and signs of dehydration. Blood and/or urine tests and/or an abdominal X-ray may be taken to determine the cause of nausea and vomiting. If your nausea is chronic, you'll need to find a variety of vegetables and proteins that don't upset your stomach to maintain proper nutrition. After determining the cause of nausea and vomiting, there are prescription drugs that your doctor can give you if the symptoms are not getting better on their own.


Question: When should I talk to my doctor about stopping taking my epilepsy medicine?

Answer: Then you might start thinking about stopping your epilepsy medicine, too. For example, you could: Get a dangerous skin reaction or other serious side effect Be planning to have a baby and are concerned about infertility (for him) or the possibility of birth defects Want to save money Start by talking to your doctor about why you want to stop.


Question: Is it ever an option to stop taking my epilepsy medication?

Answer: It's usually not an option for people with a type of epilepsy that rarely goes away, like juvenile myoclonic epilepsy. But nearly three-quarters of people with epilepsy have a form that's far less predictable. Because there's no way to know for sure if seizures will return, you must work with your doctor before and after deciding to stop medication.


Question: What should you do if you feel like something's stuck in your eye?

Answer: If you feel like there's something in your eye, you're going to want to rub it. The doctor will look at your eye and use a product called eye stain that lets him see the surface of your cornea. If something is on it or in it, he can safely remove it.


Question: What are the symptoms of corneal abrasion?

Answer: Don't -- that's how you get a scratch. If not, you might: Feel like you have sand or grit in your eye Have pain, especially when you open or close your eye Notice tearing and redness Become sensitive to light Have blurred vision Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eyedrops or ointment to keep your eye from getting infected.


Question: Should I get hepatitis A or hepatitis B vaccines before I travel to India?

Answer: This disease can be transmitted through food and water. The risk for Hepatitis A in India is high. Hepatitis B is a viral infection that can be transmitted by contact with blood and other bodily fluids. That means you could potentially be exposed through: sexual activity recreational drug use being in an accident receiving medical care If you haven't been vaccinated for it already, you should get the vaccine before you go.


Question: Should I get a Japanese encephalitis vaccine before I travel to India?

Answer: This is especially important if you will be visiting rural areas or staying in small towns. Japanese encephalitis. It is transmitted by the bite of a mosquito. Travelers to India are advised to get the vaccine before going.


Question: Should I get a yellow fever vaccine before I travel to India?

Answer: It is transmitted by the bite of a mosquito. But it's important to know that when you get to India you may be asked to show proof of yellow fever vaccination if you visited a country with risk of yellow fever before your arrival in India. Without that proof, you may be quarantined for up to six days when you first arrive. Yellow fever is mostly found in tropical and subtropical countries in Central America, South America, and Africa.


Question: How can you check if you're likely to get inflammation or clogged arteries related to Crohn's disease?

Answer: It fills the inner walls of your arteries with tiny bits of fatty deposits called plaque. Talk to your doctor about your risk for heart disease. You may get tests to see if you're likely to have clogged arteries. Imaging tests can also check for damage in your blood vessels and heart.


Question: What is the link between Crohn's disease and your heart?

Answer: That means your body's immune system mistakes your own tissues for threats and attacks them, usually in your intestines. That leads to inflammation. Your doctor may call this atherosclerosis.


Question: When are chances of having a heart attack the highest if you have Crohn's disease?

Answer: But they are still working to understand the link between Crohn's and heart and blood vessel disease. If a piece breaks off or grows big enough to block blood flow, you could have a heart attack or stroke.


Question: What can I do to avoid heart problems if I have crohn's disease?

Answer: Your doctor may call this atherosclerosis. Some research may show a link between flares and people with Crohn's admitted to the hospital for heart failure. Talk to your doctor about your risk for heart disease. You may get tests to see if you're likely to have clogged arteries. Imaging tests can also check for damage in your blood vessels and heart. To lower your chance of heart problems, keep your disease under control and prevent flare-ups as much as you can.


Question: Whatâs a good way to measure a serving size?

Answer: Instead of trying to memorize lists of ounces, cups, and tablespoons, simply compare the serving sizes of foods to familiar things. Meat, fish, or poultry is the size of a deck of cards or the size of your palm (minus the fingers).


Question: What is a nasopharyngoscopy?

Answer: A flexible, lighted tube may be placed through your mouth or nose to help the doctor better view the nasopharynx. If the exam is abnormal, your doctor may recommend a biopsy.


Question: How is Epstein-Barr virus linked to nasopharyngeal cancer?

Answer: Nasopharyngeal cancer is a rare type of head and neck cancer. Although EBV infection is common, not everyone who has EBV will get nasopharyngeal cancer. In the U. S., most people who have had an EBV infection never have long-term problems. Scientists are still researching how EBV leads to nasopharyngeal cancer, but it may be related to genetic material ( DNA) from the virus affecting the DNA in the cells of the nasopharynx. The change in DNA causes cells to grow and divide abnormally, causing cancer. Biologic drugs affect how your body's immune system fights disease.


Question: What is nasopharyngeal cancer?

Answer: Most patients with nasopharyngeal cancer have a lump in the neck. This is called a nasopharyngoscopy. It is usually part of the standard treatment for early stage nasopharyngeal cancer.


Question: Does everyone who get Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) get nasopharyngeal cancer?

Answer: Nasopharyngeal cancer is a rare type of head and neck cancer. Although EBV infection is common, not everyone who has EBV will get nasopharyngeal cancer. In the U. S., most people who have had an EBV infection never have long-term problems. Scientists are still researching how EBV leads to nasopharyngeal cancer, but it may be related to genetic material ( DNA) from the virus affecting the DNA in the cells of the nasopharynx. The change in DNA causes cells to grow and divide abnormally, causing cancer. Biologic drugs affect how your body's immune system fights disease.


Question: What happens if your exam for nasopharyngeal cancer is abnormal?

Answer: Most patients with nasopharyngeal cancer have a lump in the neck. A biopsy is the removal of a small amount of tissue for examination under a microscope. A biopsy may be taken during the nasopharyngoscopy.


Question: What biologic drugs are used to treat nasopharyngeal cancer?

Answer: You are more likely to get this type of cancer if you: Are male Eat a diet rich in salt-cured fish and meats Have a family history of nasopharyngeal cancer Have certain genes linked to cancer development Have come in contact with EBV Some, but not all, studies have found a higher risk of nasopharyngeal cancer in people who: Smoke Drink a lot of alcohol Work around wood dust or a chemical called formaldehyde Symptoms of nasopharyngeal cancer may include: Lump in neck (most common) Blurry or double vision Ear infections that recur Face pain or numbness Headache Hearing loss, ringing in the ears, or a feeling of fullness in the ear Difficulty opening mouth Nosebleeds Stuffy nose Sore throat Keep in mind, such symptoms are more likely to occur with many other diseases and health conditions that are far less serious than nasopharyngeal cancer. But it may help you live longer when combined with radiotherapy or biological drugs. Biologic drugs. Biologic drugs affect how your body's immune system fights disease. They include monoclonal antibodies such as cetuximab ( Erbitux), pembrolizumab ( Keytruda), and nivolumab ( Opdivo). Clinical trials .


Question: How is palliative therapy used to treat nasopharyngeal cancer?

Answer: Nasopharyngeal cancer is a rare type of head and neck cancer. Palliative therapy. The goal of palliative treatment is to control symptoms related to cancer and cancer treatment and make you as comfortable as possible.


Question: What should a patient do if they are concerned about cancer?

Answer: Don't let fear of cancer stop you from taking the RA treatment your doctor suggests, especially given the benefits these drugs offer. Be sure to ask about the pros and cons of taking a recommended drug, as well as the risks and benefits of not taking it.


Question: How can bringing a buddy to doctor visits help you manage Crohn's disease?

Answer: Your family and close friends might also be able to recommend someone. Sometimes they're not sure how to do that. Since you'll need to follow all medical instructions, ask for them in writing if it helps you remember.


Question: Do you need tube feedings for severe Crohn's disease?

Answer: When this happens, your doctor uses what's called a nasogastric tube, which goes in your nose and stomach. If the nasogastric tube isn't an option, the doctor may place a tube directly into your stomach through a cut in your belly. This rarely happens, and in either case tube feeding is almost always temporary. These may help ease some of your symptoms.


Question: Can you manage Crohn's disease symptoms on your own?

Answer: To treat your Crohn's disease, your doctor will recommend what medicines to take and whether you might need surgery. Regular exercise can also help you feel better.


Question: How do I prevent baby bottle tooth decay?

Answer: Some tips to prevent baby bottle tooth decay include: During the day, to calm or comfort your baby, don't give a bottle filled with sugary drinks or milk; instead, give plain water or a pacifier. Never dip your baby's pacifier in sugar, honey, or any sugary liquid. Give a small amount of plain water or use a pacifier instead. If your baby is nursing at night, make sure you remove your breast from your baby's mouth when she falls asleep.


Question: How can I help my kid stop thumb sucking?

Answer: Children must make the decision on their own to stop sucking their thumb or fingers before the habit will cease. To help toward this goal, parents and family members can offer encouragement and positive reinforcement. Because thumb sucking is a security mechanism, negative reinforcement (such as scolding, nagging, or punishments) are generally ineffective; they make children defensive and drive them back to the habit. Instead, give praise or rewards for time successfully avoiding the habit. For children who want to stop, cover the finger or thumb with a band-aid as a reminder.


Question: When do I need neuropsychological tests?

Answer: Neuropsychology looks at how the health of your brain affects your thinking skills and behavior. You usually take a neurological test when you have a noticeable change in your thinking or memory. They help doctors figure out whether your problems are caused by any of the following: Disease, such as Alzheimer's Brain injury Emotional disorders, such as depression or anxiety Normal brain changes related to getting older It is especially important for doctors to find out about thinking problems in cases where the patient has a movement disorder, such as Parkinson's disease.


Question: What are some examples of neuropsychological tests?

Answer: They're called neuropsychological tests. Neuropsychology looks at how the health of your brain affects your thinking skills and behavior. For instance, if you see a picture of a dog and a cat, you might answer that they're both animals or that they are both pets. Verbal communication test: Name some items as the person giving the test points at them. Motor tests: These might include tasks such as inserting pegs into a pegboard using one hand and then the other. You might also be given tests to see how your hearing and vision affect your thinking and memory.


Question: What happens after my neuropsychological testing?

Answer: Neuropsychology looks at how the health of your brain affects your thinking skills and behavior. The treatment plan could include more medical tests, such as a CT or MRI scan of your brain. Treatment might also include counseling if the diagnosis is depression. Whatever the results are, they will become part of your permanent medical history. They will be helpful in understanding your current health picture and your future medical needs, too.


Question: How should I prepare for neuropsychological tests?

Answer: Neuropsychology looks at how the health of your brain affects your thinking skills and behavior. There are a few things you should do before the test, however: Get a good night's sleep, since being tired affects how you think. Eat a good breakfast. Don't drink anything with alcohol in it the night before the test. Ask your doctor about whether you can take any medications, including sleep medicine, the night before. Tell the psychologist about any previous psychological tests you've taken. You or a loved one should bring a list of all your medications. If you have trouble answering questions about your medical history or symptoms, bring someone along who can.


Question: What areas are covered by neuropsychological testing?

Answer: Neuropsychology looks at how the health of your brain affects your thinking skills and behavior. These tests help your doctors look at your attention span and how well you concentrate on things. Other areas covered by neuropsychological testing include: Your ability to think, understand, learn, and remember (cognition) Memory Motor function (walking, coordination, etc.)


Question: What are neuropsychological tests?

Answer: If you're having trouble concentrating or making decisions, some simple tests might be helpful in figuring out what's wrong. They may also be done on a computer. You might also be given tests to see how your hearing and vision affect your thinking and memory. You usually take a neurological test when you have a noticeable change in your thinking or memory.


Question: How can acetyl-l-carnitine (ALC) interact with other drugs?

Answer: Check with your doctor first if you're taking blood-thinning drugs. Carnitine may increase the effects of or have other interactions with many drugs. It may also interact with a number of herbs and supplements. Avoid using this supplement with D- or DL-carnitine.


Question: What are the risks of taking selenium?

Answer: Group Recommended Dietary Allowance Children 1-3 20 micrograms/day Children 4-8 30 micrograms/day Children 9-13 40 micrograms/day Adults and children 14 and up 55 micrograms/day Pregnant women 60 micrograms/day Breastfeeding women 70 micrograms/day Selenium content of food is largely dependent on location and soil conditions, which vary widely. Side effects. Taken at normal doses, selenium does not usually have side effects. An overdose of selenium may cause bad breath, fever, and nausea, as well as liver, kidney and heart problems and other symptoms. At high enough levels, selenium could cause death. Interactions. Selenium may also interact with other medicines and supplements, such as some antacids, chemotherapy drugs, corticosteroids, niacin, cholesterol-lowering statin drugs, and birth control pills. Skin cancer. Selenium supplements may be associated with a risk of skin cancer (squamous cell carcinoma), so people at high risk of skin cancer should not take these supplements.


Question: What are tips to help prevent ulcers, or to help them heal?

Answer: Some helpful tips to prevent or allow healing of ulcers include: Avoid foods that irritate your stomach. Use common sense: If it upsets your stomach when you eat it, avoid it. Everyone is different, but spicy foods, citrus fruits, and fatty foods are common irritants. Stop smoking. Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDS including aspirin and ibuprofen) with food, as this may decrease your risk of irritating the lining of your stomach Learn how to control your stress levels.


Question: What one-time injuries cause elbow pain?

Answer: Here are some of the different ways your elbow can hurt: Some injuries, hopefully, are one-off events, like when you fall or get hit hard while playing a sport. Dislocated elbow. When one of the bones that forms the elbow gets knocked out of place, you have a dislocated elbow. One of the more common causes is when you put your hand out to catch yourself during a fall. It can also happen to toddlers when you swing them by their forearms -- that's called nursemaid's elbow. Strains and sprains: File these under, â Oof, I think I pushed it a little too far.â When muscles get stretched or torn, it's called a strain. When it's ligaments, it's a sprain.


Question: Who can benefit from occupational therapy (OT)?

Answer: This type of treatment can help if you have pain, injury, illness, or a disability that makes it hard for you to do your job or schoolwork, care for yourself, complete household chores, move around, or take part in activities. Your OT may: Prescribe and train you to use assistive devices like raised toilet seats or wheelchairs Teach you new ways to button a shirt, tie your shoes, get in and out of the shower, or work on your computer Help older adults prevent falls in their home or in public areas Treat adults who've had a stroke to improve balance, change their home to prevent injuries, build muscle strength, or adapt to their memory or speech problems Organize your medications or household tools Address behavior problems in kids who act out or hit others Build hand-eye coordination so you can hit a tennis ball Work on motor skills so you can grasp a pencil Just about anyone who struggles to do any kind of task may need it. If you have one of these health problems, ask your doctor if OT could help you: Arthritis and chronic pain Stroke Brain injury Joint replacement Spinal cord injury Low vision Alzheimer's disease Poor balance Cancer Diabetes Multiple sclerosis Cerebral palsy Mental health or behavior issues It can also help kids with birth defects, ADHD, juvenile arthritis, autism, or severe injuries or burns.


Question: What can you expect at your first occupational therapy (OT) appointment?

Answer: They don't assess you or create your therapy plan. They can show you how to do daily chores better. Next, they'll work with you to come up with a therapy plan and set goals designed for your needs, disability, or limits. Your OT can train you to adapt your movements, improve your motor skills or hand-eye coordination, or do tasks in new ways. Your therapist may come to your home, workplace, or school to create a treatment plan.


Question: What is occupational therapy (OT)?

Answer: This type of treatment can help if you have pain, injury, illness, or a disability that makes it hard for you to do your job or schoolwork, care for yourself, complete household chores, move around, or take part in activities. You'll learn how to use tools (you may hear them called assistive devices) if you need them. You'll meet with a health professional called an occupational therapist who can come up with ways to change your movements so you can get your work done, take care of yourself or your home, play sports, or stay active. It can help you do specific things like: Eat without help from others Take part in leisure activities Do office work Bathe and get dressed Do laundry or clean up around the house They get special graduate training in occupational therapy. You'll probably hear them called OTs. In short, the therapist looks at how you do any kind of activity or task. They can show you how to do daily chores better.


Question: How can an occupational therapist help you?

Answer: This type of treatment can help if you have pain, injury, illness, or a disability that makes it hard for you to do your job or schoolwork, care for yourself, complete household chores, move around, or take part in activities. Your OT may: Prescribe and train you to use assistive devices like raised toilet seats or wheelchairs Teach you new ways to button a shirt, tie your shoes, get in and out of the shower, or work on your computer Help older adults prevent falls in their home or in public areas Treat adults who've had a stroke to improve balance, change their home to prevent injuries, build muscle strength, or adapt to their memory or speech problems Organize your medications or household tools Address behavior problems in kids who act out or hit others Build hand-eye coordination so you can hit a tennis ball Work on motor skills so you can grasp a pencil Just about anyone who struggles to do any kind of task may need it. Your therapist may come to your home, workplace, or school to create a treatment plan.


Question: Where do you get occupational therapy (OT)?

Answer: This type of treatment can help if you have pain, injury, illness, or a disability that makes it hard for you to do your job or schoolwork, care for yourself, complete household chores, move around, or take part in activities. Your therapist may come to your home, workplace, or school to create a treatment plan. OTs also work in many places like these: Hospitals Rehab centers Outpatient clinics Nursing or assisted living homes Schools Private practice offices Prisons Corporate offices Industrial workplaces


Question: How can I prevent cockroaches from coming in my house?

Answer: Due to the warmer climate, cockroach allergy is especially common in the South, particularly in low-income families. But cockroaches can invade anyone's home. Keep your kitchen and dining room clean. Keep a lid on your kitchen trash. Don't leave your pet's food out in a bowl. Reduce clutter. They may eat paper, too. Boric acid may help. Make sure to keep baits away from children or pets.


Question: What medications can help with treating arthritis?

Answer: Your doctor can help you choose what drugs are best for your particular disease. There are several versions of hyaluronan injections, also called viscosupplementation, that are used to treat osteoarthritis of the knee.


Question: How can steroids help treat arthritis and what are the side effects?

Answer: Although effective, steroidscan have many side effects, especially when taken as a pill andused long term. Often, doctors try to avoid these problems by injecting the steroid into the affected joint or trying other medications in combination to keep the dose of steroids as low as possible. These drugs are often able to alter the course of some forms of inflammatory arthritis -- diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis -- that can destroy the joints.


Question: How does peripheral vascular disease due to diabetes affect feet?

Answer: Peripheral vascular disease. If you have poor blood flow, it is especially important to check your feet daily. Diabetes affects the blood vessels that supply your fingers and toes. When blood flow is cut off, tissue can die.


Question: What is athlete's foot and how is it treated?

Answer: Athlete's foot . Medicines that kill the fungus can treat athlete's foot. These medicines come in pills or creams. Dry skin can crack, which can allow germs to enter.


Question: How can you best manage and avoid foot problems if you have diabetes?

Answer: A callus is a buildup of hard skin, usually on the underside of the foot. If you have a foot problem that gets worse or won't heal, contact your doctor. Make sure your diabetes doctor checks your feet during each checkup. See your podiatrist (a foot doctor) every 2 to 3 months for checkups, even if you don't have any foot problems.


Question: What causes bunions to form and what can you do about them?

Answer: A bunion forms when your big toe bends toward your second toe. Often, the spot where your big toe joins your foot becomes red and callused. This area also may stick out and become hard. They may run in the family, but most often they're caused by wearing high-heeled shoes with narrow toes. These shoes put pressure on your big toe, pushing it toward your second toe. Felt or foam padding may help protect the bunion from irritation. If the bunion causes severe pain or deformity, you might need surgery to realign your toes.


Question: What is a toe corn and how is it removed?

Answer: A corn is a buildup of hard skin near a bony area of a toe or between toes. Corns may happen because of pressure from shoes that rub against your toes or cause friction between your toes. After your bath or shower, use a pumice stone to gently remove the built-up tissue. Do not use over-the-counter remedies to dissolve corns. DO NOT try to cut the corn or remove it with a sharp object. If you have a persistent problem or if you have a nail infection, you may need a doctor's care.


Question: What is a foot ulcer and what should you do if you have one?

Answer: A foot ulcer is a break in the skin or a deep sore. Foot ulcers can happen from minor scrapes, cuts that heal slowly, or from the rubbing of shoes that do not fit well. Ask your doctor for advice on how to best care for your ulcer. The common treatment is to drain the abscess.


Question: What is a fungal infection of the nails and how is it treated?

Answer: Nails that are infected with a fungus may become discolored (yellowish-brown or opaque), thick, and brittle and may separate from the rest of your nail. In some cases, your nail may crumble. The dark, moist, and warm environment of shoes can help a fungus grow. An injury to your nail can also lead to a fungal infection. Fungal nail infections are hard to treat. Medications applied to the nail are available, but they only help a small number of fungal nail problems. Your doctor might also remove the damaged nail. In severe cases, you may need surgery to straighten your toes.


Question: How can diabetic neuropathy affect your feet?

Answer: Diabetes can cause two problems that can affect your feet: Diabetic neuropathy. If you have damaged nerves in your legs and feet, you might not feel heat, cold, or pain there. This lack of feeling is called "sensory diabetic neuropathy." If you do not feel a cut or sore on your foot because of neuropathy, the cut could get worse and become infected. The muscles of your foot may not work properly because nerves to the muscles are damaged. This could cause your foot to not align properly and create too much pressure on one part of your foot. Peripheral vascular disease. Up to 10% of people with diabetes will get foot ulcers.


Question: Does smoking cause foot problems in people with diabetes?

Answer: Your doctor can tell you which type of lotion is best. Smoking can make problems with blood flow worse.


Question: What can you do to prevent foot problems from diabetes?

Answer: Here are some tips for good foot care: Take care of yourself and your diabetes. Follow your doctor's advice regarding nutrition, exercise, and medication. Keep your blood sugar level within the range recommended by your doctor. Wash your feet in warm water every day, using a mild soap. Test the temperature of the water with your elbow because nerve damage can affect sensation in your hands, too. Do not soak your feet. Dry your feet well, especially between your toes. Check your feet every day for sores, blisters, redness, calluses, or any other problems. If you have poor blood flow, it is especially important to check your feet daily. If the skin on your feet is dry, keep it moist by applying lotion after you wash and dry your feet. Do not put lotion between your toes. Your doctor can tell you which type of lotion is best. Gently smooth corns and calluses with an emery board or pumice stone. Do this after your bath or shower, when your skin is soft. Move the emery board in only one direction. Check your toenails once a week. Trim your toenails with a nail clipper straight across. Do not round off the corners of toenails or cut down on the sides of the nails. After clipping, smooth the toenails with a nail file. If you have diabetes, contact your doctor if you have any of these problems: Changes in skin color Changes in skin temperature Swelling in the foot or ankle Pain in the legs Open sores on the feet that are slow to heal or are draining Ingrown toenails or toenails infected with fungus Corns or calluses Dry cracks in the skin, especially around the heel Foot odor that is unusual or won't go away Skin and bone infections.


Question: Are there follow-up tests done after B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia is diagnosed?

Answer: You may also get a test called a spinal tap (lumbar puncture). It checks to see if cancer cells have spread to the brain and spinal cord. For this test, your doctor gives you a shot to numb your lower back. Then he puts a needle in the area around your spinal cord to remove some fluid called CSF (cerebrospinal fluid). You might get these drugs in three phases over about 2 years.


Question: How does targeted therapy help treat B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia?

Answer: Are there side effects? In this treatment, you take drugs that move through your bloodstream and kill cancer cells throughout your body. You might get these drugs in three phases over about 2 years. This treatment doesn't work for everyone, but it puts a lot of people into remission and may help keep the cancer from coming back.


Question: How is B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia diagnosed?

Answer: Your doctor will do a physical exam and ask you questions about your medical history. Peripheral blood smear. It looks for changes in the number of blood cells and how they look. The results of these tests can reveal signs that you may have B-cell ALL, such as too many young white blood cells or too few of the two other types of blood cells -- red blood cells and platelets. You may also need to get a bone marrow test. Your doctor will take samples of your bone marrow, usually from the back of your hip bone.


Question: How is B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia treated?

Answer: The goal of the first phase is "total remission" -- to kill the leukemia cells and get rid of all your symptoms. Your doctor may call it the induction phase. If you go into remission, the next stage is to kill any leftover leukemia cells that aren't active but could grow later, causing the disease to return. Your doctor may call this phase of treatment the consolidation phase or "post-remission therapy." You might get these drugs in three phases over about 2 years. You may not be able to control your cancer, but you can control choices about how you'll live your life.


Question: How does chemotherapy help treat B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia?

Answer: They build up in your bone marrow and move into your bloodstream. These might include an X-ray or a CT scan. While you're getting chemo, you may feel nauseous, but certain medicines can reduce vomiting.


Question: How is arthritis treated?

Answer: She might recommend: Medications Physical therapy Splints or other aids Weight loss In rare cases, surgery The types of medicines your doctor might suggest are: Painkillers: over-the-counter or prescription Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) Biologics: medications that are designed to counteract inflammatory signals in the body and are made by complex methods involving genetically-modified bacteria Steroids to cut down on inflammation Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs ( DMARDs): meds that slow or stop inflammation Alternative treatments such as acupuncture, massage, yoga, and physical therapy may help ease your symptoms, too. The sooner you're treated, the more likely you are to avoid permanent joint damage.


Question: How is arthritis diagnosed?

Answer: For example, an athletic injury like a torn anterior cruciate ligament ( ACL) or a fracture near a joint can lead to arthritis. It can give you pain, swelling, stiffness, and trouble with moving. But get help from your doctor if: The pain, swelling, or redness isn't going away. Take samples of your joint fluid and test them. Do imaging scans, which may include X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds.


Question: What are symptoms of arthritis?

Answer: You might also have: One or more joints that are swollen or stiff Joints that look red or feel warm to the touch Tenderness Trouble moving Problems doing everyday tasks The symptoms can be constant, or they may come and go. They can range from mild to severe. More-severe cases may lead to permanent joint damage. Uric acid buildup in the body causes needle-like crystal deposits to form in your joints.


Question: When should I see a doctor about my arthritis?

Answer: You might feel pain in your fingers, knees, or hips. But get help from your doctor if: The pain, swelling, or redness isn't going away. Your symptoms get worse quickly. You have relatives with autoimmune disorders. You've got relatives with other arthritis-related diseases. Don't ignore joint pain. In some cases, it can cause damage that can't be reversed, even with treatment. When in doubt, talk to your doctor.


Question: How can I manage arthritis?

Answer: As you get older, your joints tend to get worn down. You doctor can help you manage your pain, prevent damage to the affected joint, and keep inflammation at bay. Exercise can help you move better, lessen pain, and put off disability. Watch your weight. Extra pounds raise your chances of related health problems. Don't put off treatment. The sooner you're treated, the more likely you are to avoid permanent joint damage.


Question: What do I need to know about rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: This can damage the joint surface and underlying bone. RA mostly targets your fingers, thumbs, wrists, elbows, shoulders, knees, feet, and ankles. It can give you pain, swelling, stiffness, and trouble with moving. You may also have: Fatigue Fever Weight loss Eye inflammation Bumps under the skin called nodules Lung inflammation Gout is another form of arthritis that can be very painful. Lupus is a long lasting, autoimmune disease that can damage almost any part of the body, including joints and skin.


Question: How does a doctor determine the cause of your  back problems?

Answer: Unless you are totally immobilized from a back injury, your doctor probably will examine your range of motion and nerve function and touch your body to locate the area of discomfort. Blood and urine tests may be done to determine if the pain is caused by an infection or other systemic problem. X-rays are useful in pinpointing broken bones or other skeletal defects. They can sometimes help locate problems in connective tissue. To analyze soft-tissue or disc damage, computed tomography ( CT) or magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) scans may be needed. To determine possible nerve or muscle damage, an electromyogram ( EMG) may be ordered.


Question: Can topical treatments help psoriasis?

Answer: These are called topical treatments -- meaning you put them directly on your skin or scalp. You can get some over the counter ( OTC) at the drug store, but you'll need a prescription for others. It may take time to find what works best for you. These ointments, gels, creams, lotions, foams, and solutions make your skin cells grow more slowly. Together, you can find the treatment that's right for you.


Question: What are the side effects of psoriasis medication?

Answer: Steroids sometimes work better when they're used along with other medications. The side effects include: Thin skin Changes in skin color Bruising Stretch marks Broken blood vessels Make sure you follow your doctor's directions. Using steroids too often has been linked to serious health problems, including certain kinds of cancer.


Question: What are the side effects of using steroids (corticosteroids) for treating psoriasis?

Answer: Steroids sometimes work better when they're used along with other medications. The side effects include: Thin skin Changes in skin color Bruising Stretch marks Broken blood vessels Make sure you follow your doctor's directions. Using steroids too often has been linked to serious health problems, including certain kinds of cancer.


Question: How does vitamin D treat psoriasis?

Answer: Over the long-term, they may be safer for you than steroids, but they can irritate your skin. Your doctor will probably suggest you use small amounts twice a day. Be careful not to get it on your healthy skin. Vitamin D analogues include: Calcipotriene ( Calcitrene, Dovonex, Sorilux) Calcitriol ( Rocaltrol and Vectical) Tacalcitol ( Bonalfa and Curatoderm) Your doctor also may recommend that you use vitamin D along with a steroid.


Question: What should you ask your doctor if you've tested positive for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Answer: HIV/ AIDS questions for people who think they may have been exposed to HIV: Should I have an HIV test? HIV/ AIDS questions for people who test positive for HIV: What does it mean to have HIV? What treatment can I get for my HIV infection, and where should I get it? How much experience do you have treating people with HIV infection? What side effects can I expect from anti- HIV treatment? How can you help me deal with these side effects? How often do I need to come in after I start treatment? What can I do to improve my immune system? Will better nutrition help? How can I keep from passing my HIV infection to others? Who can help me deal with my feelings?


Question: Can you prevent knee pain?

Answer: Knee pain has a host of causes. Many types of pain are difficult to prevent, but you can do some general things to reduce the likelihood of sustaining a knee injury. Keep Limber, Keep Fit Many knee problems are caused by tight or imbalanced musculature.


Question: How common is knee pain?

Answer: With today's increasingly active society, the number of knee problems is increasing. This type of bursitis occurs in people who work on their knees.


Question: How is a patellofemoral syndrome and chondromalacia patella described and treated?

Answer: This injury often causes damage to the cartilage on the back of the patella. Bursitis Description: As a result of trauma, infection, or crystalline deposits, the various bursae of the knee may become inflamed. Treatment: Home care with PRICE therapy, NSAIDs, and exercises (such as straight leg raises) that balance the muscles around the patella work for most people. Physical therapy to assess factors that may contribute to the disease process guides management to include exercise, bracing or taping of the patella, commercial arch supports (for the arch of the foot), or orthotic supports that correct foot mechanics and may reduce abnormal forces on the knee. Severe cases of patellofemoral syndrome or chondromalacia may be treated surgically through a variety of procedures. When this band is tight it may rub against the bottom outer portion of the femur (the lateral femoral condyle).


Question: How is iliotibial band syndrome described and treated?

Answer: Iliotibial Band Syndrome Description: A fibrous ligament, called the iliotibial band, extends from the outside of the pelvic bone to the outside of the tibia. When this band is tight it may rub against the bottom outer portion of the femur (the lateral femoral condyle). Symptoms: Distance runners typically suffer from this condition. These runners complain of outside knee pain usually at the lateral femoral condyle. Early on, the pain will typically come on 10 minutes to 15 minutes into a run and improve with rest. Treatment: The most important aspect of treating iliotibial band syndrome is to identify why it is tight. A physical therapist can evaluate mechanics and prescribe treatments, which may include stretching the iliotibial band. In addition to stretching the iliotibial band, PRICE therapy and NSAIDs may be of some help.


Question: What is Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSP)?

Answer: It affects a primary caretaker, often the mother. The person with MSP gains attention by seeking medical help for exaggerated or made-up symptoms of a child in his or her care. As health care providers strive to identify what's causing the child's symptoms, the deliberate actions of the mother or caretaker can often make the symptoms worse. Psychotherapy (a type of counseling) generally focuses on changing the thinking and behavior of the individual with the disorder (cognitive-behavioral therapy).


Question: How is Munchausen syndrome by proxy (MSP) treated?

Answer: The first concern in MSP is to ensure the safety and protection of any real or potential victims. In fact, managing a case involving MSP often requires a team that includes a social worker, foster care organizations, and law enforcement, as well as doctors. Successful treatment of people with MSP is difficult because those with the disorder often deny there is a problem. In addition, treatment success is dependent on the person telling the truth, and people with MSP tend to be such accomplished liars that they begin to have trouble telling fact from fiction. In general, MSP is a very difficult disorder to treat and often requires years of therapy and support.


Question: How much carbs are in tomato sauce?

Answer: When in doubt, drizzle it on your (whole-grain) pasta sparingly. If you keep dipping and dipping until you've consumed one-half cup, you'll have eaten 58 grams of carbs from the sauce alone. Check the nutrition facts label before making your choice.


Question: How much carbs are in baked beans?

Answer: For example, a cup of vanilla almond milk has 16 grams of carbs. A tablespoon or two is unlikely to send your blood sugar soaring, but if you drown your salad, you could be in trouble.


Question: Do you always have symptoms if you have heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH)?

Answer: But if you've got He FH, you can have an LDL level as high as 250 mg/d L. Besides high cholesterol, watch out for these other symptoms of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia: Xanthomas These are bumps under your skin that form when extra cholesterol in your blood clumps together. Cholesterol can build up in your arteries -- the blood vessels that carry oxygen from your heart to the rest of your body. If you don't take steps to lower your cholesterol -- and you have other risks like smoking and high blood pressure -- you can develop heart disease.


Question: What do triglyceride levels mean from a cholesterol test?

Answer: Sometimes your doctor will tell you that you may eat normally the day of the test. High levels, in combination with either low HDL or high LDL, can clog your arteries. As with LDL levels, you want this number to be low: Less than 150 mg/d L: A healthy level150 to 199 mg/d L: An almost unhealthy level200 to 499 mg/d L: An unhealthy level500 mg/d L and higher: A very unhealthy, dangerous level Not everyone's target levels are the same.


Question: Does cancer still cause a lot of deaths in the U.S.?

Answer: 2 cause of death in the U. S., just behind heart disease. No.


Question: What puts people at risk for breast cancer?

Answer: Some gene changes can also cause it. There's more to it than gender. You're obese. You drink alcohol. Your breasts are dense. You got your first period at or before age 11. You started menopause late. You're a woman who has never been pregnant, or you first got pregnant after age 35. You've taken âcombinationâ hormone replacement therapy. You've been exposed to radiation. You're also more likely to get it if it runs in your family, you have more than three alcoholic drinks a day, you smoke, or you're obese.


Question: What puts a man at risk for prostate cancer?

Answer: Doctors usually find it in men older than age 65. It's more common among African- Americans than whites, Asians, or Hispanics, but experts don't know why. The disease can run in a man's family. Some gene changes can also cause it. Men who eat a lot of red meat or high-fat dairy foods (and fewer fruits and vegetables) may be slightly more likely to get it, the American Cancer Society says. Almost all men are still alive 5 years after finding out they have early-stage prostate cancer.


Question: Are there screening tests for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: This cancer is hard to find early. Location is part of the problem. The pancreas is deep inside your belly. It's hard to feel any lumps or growths there, so you might not know that you have it. Are there screening tests?


Question: What do I need to know about infections and asthma?

Answer: Call your doctor if you experience any of the warning symptoms of a possible infection that can trigger an asthma attack (listed below). Be aware of the symptoms of a sinus infection and report them immediately to your doctor to prevent asthma attacks.


Question: How is dissociative fugue treated?

Answer: The goal of dissociative fugue treatment is to help the person come to terms with the stress or trauma that triggered the fugue. Creative therapies (art therapy, music therapy): These therapies allow the patient to explore and express his or her thoughts and feelings in a safe and creative way.


Question: How common is dissociative fugue?

Answer: Dissociative fugue, formerly called psychogenic fugue, is one of a group of conditions called dissociative disorders. The frequency of dissociative fugue tends to increase during stressful or traumatic periods, such as during wartime or after a natural disaster.


Question: What should I do if I have skin problem after immunotherapy?

Answer: Skin problems: Many people who get immunotherapy have a skin reaction. To keep inflamed skin from getting worse, use a mild, unscented soap and lukewarm -- not hot -- water in the shower or bath. Within 5 minutes of getting out, moisturize your skin. ( Choose a brand that doesn't have perfume in it.) Stay out of the sun as much as you can, and if you are outside, use a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. If your symptoms don't clear up, they can prescribe a stronger cream or antibiotic.


Question: How can immunotherapy help your immune system?

Answer: It's an exciting new treatment that can work well for many types of the disease. Still, it can cause side effects. It only affects your immune system.


Question: What is a good level of HDL (good) cholesterol?

Answer: A level less than 40 is low and is considered a risk factor because it increases your risk for developing heart disease. HDL levels of 60 or more help to lower your risk for heart disease. Remember, a higher HDL number is better, however.


Question: At what age should people begin having their cholesterol checked?

Answer: If you have too much cholesterol in your body, the cholesterol can build up inside the walls of the arteries that carry blood to your heart. Total cholesterol should be measured at least every five years starting at age 20 and more often if you have a family history of high cholesterol. Note: If you have high cholesterol and your doctor has told you there may be an underlying genetic cause, you may want to have your children, under age 20, get their cholesterol levels tested. Talk to your children's health care providers about cholesterol testing.


Question: What causes salivary gland stones?

Answer: Salivary stones form when chemicals in the saliva accumulate in the duct or gland. These factors include: dehydration, poor eating, and use of certain medications including some antihistamines, blood pressure drugs, psychiatric drugs, and bladder control drugs. Trauma to the salivary glands may also raise the risk for salivary stones.


Question: What do doctors try first to treat mild to moderate psoriasis?

Answer: But just because your psoriasis is called "mild" doesn't mean it's easy to live with. Often the first treatment you'll try is a skin cream or ointment. If a mild treatment doesn't work, you'll move up to stronger treatments until your doctor finds one that helps you.


Question: What does follow-up care for cancer look like?

Answer: It's something you will need to continue to check. Complete remission means that tests, physical exams, and scans show that all signs of your cancer are gone. If a cancer returns after it has been in remission, it's called a ârecurrence.â It's normal to be concerned that this will happen to you.


Question: How do I know if I have heartburn?

Answer: Your description of your symptoms may be all a doctor requires to diagnose heartburn, but sometimes additional testing may be necessary. The esophagus can be viewed through an endoscope, a long, thin, flexible tube inserted through the mouth, or by X-ray. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend a 24-hour esophageal p H probe study, especially if you have unusual symptoms, such as throat or chest or abdominal pain, coughing, or asthma-like symptoms. To detect if your heart is the cause of your symptoms, an electrocardiogram ( ECG), a recording of the heart's electrical activity, may be taken.


Question: How does robotic-assisted surgery work in treating atrial fibrillation?

Answer: The doctor makes several small cuts between your ribs and uses a camera to guide catheters for another type of AFib treatment called ablation. Your doctor puts a thin, flexible tube into a blood vessel in your leg or neck. It'll guide the creation of scar tissue that may help keep your heartbeat at the right pace.


Question: How does convergent procedure work in treating atrial fibrillation?

Answer: Mini maze: Most people with AFib don't need open-heart surgery. The doctor uses radio waves (radiofrequency ablation) in the pulmonary vein, and a surgeon makes a small cut under your breastbone to use radiofrequency energy on the outside of your heart.


Question: What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Then work with your doctor to find the best treatment for you. IBS- D is a complex condition.


Question: How do you know what treatment is right for your IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)?

Answer: Then work with your doctor to find the best treatment for you. IBS- D is a complex condition. It takes time and patience to figure out what will help you feel your best. Not every treatment works for every person. Find a doctor who understands IBS and work together on your treatment plan.


Question: Do muscle relaxers help treat IBS-D?

Answer: Drugs that relax muscles, called antispasmodics, such as dicyclomine ( Bentyl) and hyoscyamine ( Levsin). But some studies have found there's no clear evidence that they help everyone with IBS.


Question: Should I talk to my doctor before I try acupuncture or herbs for my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: If you want to try behavioral therapy for IBS, try to find a therapist who will work with your regular doctor. Some herbs can affect how well other medications work.


Question: What drugs that relax muscles are used to treat IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)?

Answer: Common side effects of these meds include dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. Drugs that relax muscles, called antispasmodics, such as dicyclomine ( Bentyl) and hyoscyamine ( Levsin). Muscle spasms in your digestive tract can cause belly pain. Many doctors prescribe these drugs to calm them.


Question: Is acupuncture an effective treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Researchers have found these drugs can help slow diarrhea, but they won't help with other IBS symptoms like belly pain or swelling. For IBS relief, however, the results have been mixed.


Question: How is IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D) treated?

Answer: You may need a few of these approaches at the same time to get relief. If you want to try behavioral therapy for IBS, try to find a therapist who will work with your regular doctor. Find a doctor who understands IBS and work together on your treatment plan.


Question: How effective is acupuncture at treating IBS with diarrhea (IBS-D)?

Answer: Researchers have found these drugs can help slow diarrhea, but they won't help with other IBS symptoms like belly pain or swelling. For IBS relief, however, the results have been mixed.


Question: What is the root meaning of thrombophlebitis?

Answer: That's because they cost more and may cause uncontrollable bleeding. In the event you have a clot in a deep vein in your leg, your doctor might recommend an inferior vena cava ( IVC) filter.


Question: What are the symptoms of thrombophlebitis?

Answer: Clots lodged in veins near the surface of the skin often go away on their own in a week or two. But if you do need treatment, your doctor will probably give you something to relieve swelling and pain. He may recommend you elevate your leg or take over-the-counter aspirin or ibuprofen. These help to improve blood flow to your legs.


Question: What can happen with deeper veins in thrombophlebitis?

Answer: It depends on how bad it is. Your doctor will give you regular blood tests to make sure the meds are working. If there's a high risk of tissue damage, or if your clot comes back, you may need surgery after the inflammation improves.


Question: How do doctors remove blood clots in thrombophlebitis patients?

Answer: If your thrombophlebitis is more severe, your doctor may give you a blood thinner like heparin or fondaparinux ( Arixtra). In the event you have a clot in a deep vein in your leg, your doctor might recommend an inferior vena cava ( IVC) filter.


Question: What causes thrombophlebitis?

Answer: It depends on how bad it is. You may also have to take an oral drug like w arfarin ( Coumadin) for several months or longer to keep clots from coming back. But doctors don't normally recommend them as the first-line treatment for thrombophlebitis. If there's a high risk of tissue damage, or if your clot comes back, you may need surgery after the inflammation improves.


Question: What is thrombophlebitis?

Answer: If your thrombophlebitis is more severe, your doctor may give you a blood thinner like heparin or fondaparinux ( Arixtra). You can give others to yourself through shots under your skin at home. In the event you have a clot in a deep vein in your leg, your doctor might recommend an inferior vena cava ( IVC) filter.


Question: When does thrombophlebitis go away?

Answer: Clots lodged in veins near the surface of the skin often go away on their own in a week or two. If there's a high risk of tissue damage, or if your clot comes back, you may need surgery after the inflammation improves.


Question: Who is at risk for thrombophlebitis?

Answer: You can get some of these medications in the hospital through an IV. These kill infections caused by poor circulation.


Question: How do compression stockings treat thrombophlebitis?

Answer: But if you do need treatment, your doctor will probably give you something to relieve swelling and pain. These help to improve blood flow to your legs. They also help to reduce swelling.


Question: How do varicose veins lead to thrombophlebitis?

Answer: These help to improve blood flow to your legs. They also help to reduce swelling. You can get some of these medications in the hospital through an IV. That's because they cost more and may cause uncontrollable bleeding.


Question: What is superficial thrombophlebitis?

Answer: But if you do need treatment, your doctor will probably give you something to relieve swelling and pain. The vena cava is the main vein in your abdomen.


Question: What is the first step to treating tinnitus?

Answer: To determine what underlying medical condition may be causing your tinnitus, your doctor will give you a general physical exam, including a careful examination of your ears. But if the tinnitus remains after treatment, or if it results from exposure to loud noise, health professionals recommend various non-medical options that may help reduce or mask the unwanted noise ( See Masking Devices below). Sometimes, tinnitus goes away spontaneously, without any intervention at all. It should be understood, however, that not all tinnitus can be eliminated or reduced, no matter the cause.


Question: What happens if I have impingement syndrome?

Answer: If not treated appropriately, the rotator cuff tendons can start to thin and tear. The typical symptoms of impingement syndrome include difficulty reaching up behind the back, pain with overhead use of the arm and weakness of shoulder muscles. If tendons are injured for a long period of time, the tendon can actually tear in two, resulting in a rotator cuff tear. If you have persistent symptoms, despite the use of oral anti-inflammatory drugs, your doctor may consider a cortisone-type injection.


Question: How is impingement syndrome diagnosed?

Answer: X-rays will be taken to rule out arthritis and may show changes in the bone that indicate injury of the muscle. Bone spurs or changes in the normal contour of the bone may be present. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist who can demonstrate the exercises most effective in strengthening and stretching the shoulder muscles.


Question: What should I do if I'm thinking about getting a nose job?

Answer: During that meeting, talk about your goals and tell the doctor what bothers you about your nose and how you would like to change it. A plastic surgeon can describe the facial features that make you unique and tell you how changes would enhance your appearance.


Question: Will my insurance cover my nose job?

Answer: It can also be done for cosmetic reasons, which will change the nose's shape and appearance. If you have health insurance, make sure you talk to your insurer in advance so you know what's covered and what you will need to pay for.


Question: Why do people take cinnamon?

Answer: Some research shows cassia cinnamon may lower blood sugar in people with diabetes. But other studies haven't found a benefit. There's also no proof that cinnamon can lower cholesterol or treat yeast infections in people with HIV. Cinnamon also shows promise as an antioxidant, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory, but for now, there aren't enough studies to prove it can help. Some people are allergic to it.


Question: What does knee replacement surgery involve to treat knee osteoarthritis?

Answer: If you need to lose weight, diet and exercise can help you shed some pounds and take some of the pressure off your knees. The two types of surgery most often recommended for knee OA are arthroscopic surgery and knee replacement surgery. These are made of metals and plastics. It may take months to recover fully, but the relief can last many years or even a lifetime. It may be time to have knee replacement surgery if you have: Severe knee pain that limits your everyday activities Moderate or severe knee pain while resting, day or night Long-lasting knee inflammation and swelling that doesn't get better with rest or medications A bowing in or out of your leg No pain relief from NSAIDs or can't tolerate them


Question: What causes heart block in relation to bradycardia?

Answer: If your doctor says you or a loved one has bradycardia, a resting heart beat that's less than 60 beats per minute, it's only part of the diagnosis. It can be caused by some of the same conditions you see with sinus bradycardia. They pump and squeeze in a rhythm so your body has a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood. But most of the time, it comes from something you got later in life. The main cause is a heart attack. They include: Heart failure, because the heart is not pumping enough blood for your body Myocarditis, or inflammation of the heart muscle Coronary artery disease, or narrowing of the arteries in the heart Rheumatic fever, which is most common in children who didn't get treated well for strep throat or scarlet fever You may not need any treatment if you have a mild case.


Question: What type of bradycardia is sick sinus syndrome?

Answer: If your doctor says you or a loved one has bradycardia, a resting heart beat that's less than 60 beats per minute, it's only part of the diagnosis. This type of bradycardia causes an abnormal heart rhythm. You may have irregular heartbeats or ones that flip between slow and fast. This syndrome is not as common. It is often the result of heart disease. If you've had a heart attack or surgery, the sinus node may be scarred or damaged. Sometimes the normal wear and tear on your heart as you age is the reason Your heart has four chambers.


Question: What is sinus bradycardia?

Answer: If your doctor says you or a loved one has bradycardia, a resting heart beat that's less than 60 beats per minute, it's only part of the diagnosis. That's a group of cells that sends out electrical signals that tell you when to pump out more blood. It may be mild enough that you never notice any symptoms. With a more serious case, you might have dizziness, breathing problems, and chest pains, among other problems. This syndrome is not as common.


Question: What conditions can cause sinus bradycardia?

Answer: If your doctor says you or a loved one has bradycardia, a resting heart beat that's less than 60 beats per minute, it's only part of the diagnosis. It's sometimes called âthe heart's natural pacemaker.â It should start the signal about 60 to 100 times a minute. Some of them are: Heart attack Pericarditis, or inflammation of the thin tissues around the outside of the heart A defect at birth Sleep apnea, or when you briefly stop breathing while you sleep A problem with your thyroid, the gland in your neck that helps control many of your body's functions Certain medications, including a class of medicines called beta blockers. You may take them to lower blood pressure or for other heart conditions.


Question: What type of bradycardia is heart block?

Answer: If your doctor says you or a loved one has bradycardia, a resting heart beat that's less than 60 beats per minute, it's only part of the diagnosis. They pump and squeeze in a rhythm so your body has a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood. First degree is the mildest and may not even cause symptoms. Third degree is the most serious and is sometimes called âcomplete heart block.â You may need emergency care for this kind Heart block can be what's called a congenital defect, meaning you were born with it.


Question: What are side effects of breast ultrasound?

Answer: The sound waves bounce off surfaces in your body, and the "echoes" are recorded and transformed into video or photographs. It doesn't use radiation like X-rays do.


Question: How can someone manage their type 2 diabetes?

Answer: People with diabetes need to manage their disease to stay healthy. Others may also need to take a pill that helps their body use insulin better, or take insulin injections. Often, doctors are able to detect the likelihood of type 2 diabetes before the condition actually occurs. Commonly referred to as pre-diabetes, this condition occurs when a person's blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.


Question: What are TNR programs?

Answer: Many experts agree that one of the best ways to help feral cats and cat groups -- called colonies -- is through neutering programs. According to web site of the American Association of Feline Practitioners, stray and feral cats are “humanely trapped, examined, vaccinated, and surgically sterilized by veterinarians.” Feral cats are then returned to their familiar environment and, hopefully, cared for by volunteers, who may provide food and shelter, and monitor them for sickness.


Question: How can you tell a stray from a feral cat?

Answer: They tend to stay away from humans, hide during the day, and when adopted, are very difficult to socialize. Lost or abandoned felines are usually comfortable around people and will frequently attempt to live near humans -- under porches, or in garages, sheds, or backyards.


Question: What can you do for feral cats?

Answer: “ It goes without saying that you should spay and neuter your own cats,” says Linda P. Case, MS, author of Canine and Feline Behavior and Training: A Complete Guide to Understanding Our Two Best Friends. She also suggests keeping your cat indoors -- not only for her safety, but also to prevent her from getting lost and ending up part of a feral colony. Feeding feral and stray cats is generous, but they need health care as well. You can also donate money to animal welfare groups through an estate or will. If you can’t aid in a clinical setting, you can be involved at the community level -- contacting local veterinarians and businesses, writing letters, fund-raising, or staffing a booth at a community event. Become a colony caretaker.


Question: What are the benefits of TNR programs?

Answer: Trap-neuter-return ( TNR) endeavors are geared toward reducing the number of unwanted cats by catching and then neutering or spaying them. Neutered cats tend to gain weight and have fewer health problems -- such as breast, testicular, and uterine cancer. Fewer females in heat also means fewer toms attracted to an area, and so fewer risky cat fights. Ultimately, less cat suffering also means less human suffering in the face of dying or injured cats.


Question: What is an electroencephalogram test (EEG)?

Answer: Electrodes, or sensors, that go on the scalp detect the signals and send them to a polygraph machine that records the activity. Your brain cells create electrical signals that are picked up by the electrodes and sent to a polygraph.


Question: When would my doctor suggest sourgery for my carpal syndrome?

Answer: Treatments like wrist braces and corticosteroids can help, but in more severe cases, you may need surgery. You have pain, numbness, and tingling that don't go away or get better in 6 months. You find it harder to grip, grasp, or pinch objects like you once did.


Question: What are my options for carpal tunnel surgery?

Answer: After the surgery, the ligament comes back together, but with more room for the median nerve to pass through. Open surgery involves a larger cut, or incision -- up to 2 inches from your wrist to your palm. In endoscopic surgery, your surgeon makes one opening in your wrist. He then places a tiny camera in one of the openings to guide him as he cuts the ligament. Because the openings are smaller with endoscopic surgery, you may heal faster and have less pain. For both types of carpal tunnel release surgery, they include: Bleeding Damage to your median nerve or nearby nerves and blood vessels Infection of your wound A scar that hurts to touch First, you'll get local anesthesia -- drugs to numb your hand and wrist.


Question: How long is the recovery period after carpal tunnel surgery?

Answer: But if you have carpal tunnel syndrome, the pain, numbness, and tingling in your fingers get your attention. You'll likely leave the hospital the same day. Your doctor will let you know what medicines might help. You may have some soreness for anywhere from a few weeks to a few months after surgery.


Question: Why is testing for food allergies a problem?

Answer: This means that if you do have a food allergy, the tests are very likely to catch it. But the tests aren't very specific. It's very rare for a person to be allergic to more than one or two foods, Oppenheimer and Portnoy say. So if testing is used to confirm or reject suspect foods, it is more likely to give meaningful results.