Question: How effective is a pancreatic cancer diet?

Answer: Numerous studies have tried to identify which foods, if any, contribute to developing pancreatic cancer. The results don't allow any firm conclusions: A typical American diet, high in fat and smoked or other processed meats, has been associated with pancreatic cancer in some but not all studies. A healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables seemed to protect against pancreatic cancer in some but not all studies. In experiments, lab rats fed a high-protein, high-fat diet were consistently found to develop pancreatic cancer. However, laboratory data doesn't necessarily apply to people. Bottom line: There is no definite technique to prevent pancreas cancer. However, not smoking, exercising, and eating a proper diet is the best lifestyle choice for overall health.


Question: How do you take Savella?

Answer: It is not exactly clear how Savella works. You take Savella in two divided doses each day. You start at 12.5 milligrams on the first day. Then you increase to 100 milligrams/day over a one-week period. Although the recommended dose is 100 milligrams/day, your doctor may increase it to 200 milligrams/day, based on your response to the medication. Your doctor may recommend the following regimen for taking Savella: Day 1: 12.5 milligrams once Days 2-3: 25 milligrams/day (12.5 milligrams twice daily) Days 4-7: 50 milligrams/day (25 milligrams twice daily) After Day 7: 100 milligrams/day (50 milligrams twice daily) Do not suddenly stop taking Savella.


Question: How does Savella work to treat fibromyalgia?

Answer: With fibromyalgia, you may have a lower threshold for pain. Experts believe this may result from changes in your nervous system. This could result from the wrong levels of neurotransmitters. Savella allows more of these neurotransmitters to travel from neuron to neuron. It is not exactly clear how Savella works. But increasing levels of neurotransmitters may ease pain and reduce fatigue or help with memory. However, not all these benefits have been tested in humans.


Question: What are the symptoms of spinal cord compression relative to prostate cancer?

Answer: Eventually, pressure from the vertebrae or the tumor at the spine will result in compression of the spinal cord. These symptoms are often preceded by pain in the hip (usually on one side) or in the back, lasting a few days or weeks. Such symptoms require immediate evaluation in the nearest hospital emergency department. Failure to be treated immediately can result in permanent spinal cord damage.


Question: What should I do if my pet has bee and wasp stings?

Answer: If it’s not cleaned out soon, it can become infected. An antihistamine like Benadryl will relieve some of the symptoms, but call your vet to ask how much to give. If you notice any swelling on the face or neck, or hives all over the body, get the animal to the vet right away. This could be a severe anaphylactic reaction -- a definite emergency.


Question: What should I do if my pet is affected by heatstroke?

Answer: If it seems to have any broken bones, do your best to not move it too much. Don't put your hands or your face near the animal's mouth, and don't pull its tongue out of the mouth. You can also gently hose the animal down with cool water, especially the belly, before transporting it to the vet. Do not cool your pet down too quickly as this can be dangerous.


Question: What motor skills milestones should you expect in your 4-month-old?

Answer: Her hands now work together to move a toy or shake a rattle. In fact, those hands will grab for just about anything within reach, including a stuffed animal, your hair, and any colorful or shiny object hanging nearby. By now, your baby's head should no longer be wobbly. Four-month-olds have pretty good head control while sitting supported, and they can hold their head and chest upright while lying on their stomach during tummy time. They also can kick and push with their feet. Some babies have even figured out how to roll from tummy to back at this point.


Question: What growth milestones should you expect in your 4-month-old?

Answer: By your baby's fourth month, you both should be enjoying a full night's sleep. Here are a few of the items that should be on the checklist for your 4-month well-baby pediatrician visit: Height and weight Milestones Vaccinations Hearing and vision Eating Sleeping Before you go to the doctor's office, make a list of any concerns you have and any questions you want to ask, and then use the list to be sure you get all the information and help you need.


Question: What communication milestones should you expect in your 4-month-old?

Answer: They also can see across the room, although they still prefer looking at people close-up. You also may notice that your baby's eyes are starting to change color. When she drops something on the floor, you pick it up. Many babies delight in dropping the same object over and over and over again, just to watch their parents repeatedly pick it up. Babies at this age are learning to be effective communicators. They express themselves through coos, vowel sounds such as ooh and aah, squeals, gurgles, and laughter. You'll notice that your baby can use her face to express a wide range of emotions, from a beaming happy smile, to a crunched-up angry face, to open-mouthed surprise. Your 4-month-old is also starting to learn how to read emotions from your voice and facial expressions.


Question: What eating milestones should you expect in your 4-month-old?

Answer: But depending on your baby's size -- bigger babies may not be satisfied with breast milk or formula alone -- and readiness, your doctor may say it's OK to start solids at four months. Before that first feeding, make sure that your baby has good head and neck control and can sit upright with support. Babies at this age may still have a strong tongue-thrust reflex. If you put a spoon of cereal in your baby's mouth and she pushes it right back out, you may need to wait a week or two before trying solids again.


Question: What sleep milestones should you expect in your 4-month-old?

Answer: By now, your baby's head should no longer be wobbly. Add in two naps, and baby should be sleeping a total of 14 to 16 hours a day. Babies at this age are learning to be effective communicators.


Question: What milestones should you expect in your 4-month-old?

Answer: Babies at this age love to express themselves through smiles, laughs, gurgles, and coos. Your baby is becoming more dexterous and doing more with her hands.


Question: What are the risks of taking off-label drugs for treating multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: Over the years, doctors have prescribed everything from cancer drugs to acne medicine to help with MS. Your doctor might suggest going off-label if approved drugs aren't safe for you. A cancer drug doesn't get tested in someone with MS to see if it acts any differently or to check which dose works best. So there's some extra risk there. That said, many off-label meds for MS often have at least some research behind them. When studies show off-label drugs work for MS, they tend to have fewer risks. What are the side effects and risks for someone with MS?


Question: When will your insurance pay for off-label drugs for treating multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: You may be surprised to find that the medicine is "off-label," which means it isn't approved to treat MS. Is that a good idea, you wonder? New studies come out all the time, so check with your doctor. Your doctor may suggest it to treat pain and depression from MS.


Question: What should you know about off-label drugs for treating multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: It depends on a lot of things like the dose, other conditions you have, and other medicines you take. If that happens, you may be able to get your doctor to write a letter for you that shows what MS studies have been done with the drug. It may slow down your disease and help with symptoms, but it can also come with side effects like nausea and vomiting that can be tough for some people. Your doctor may suggest it to treat pain and depression from MS.


Question: How is the drug rituximab (Rituxan) used off-label to help treat MS?

Answer: A cancer drug doesn't get tested in someone with MS to see if it acts any differently or to check which dose works best. This drug may cut down on your relapses and slow down the disease.


Question: How is the drug cladribine (Leustatin) used off-label to help treat MS?

Answer: Your doctor may suggest it to treat pain and depression from MS. This drug may cut down on your relapses and slow down the disease.


Question: When should you try off-label drugs for treating multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: You might have allergies to some medicines or find that side effects hit you too hard. Or you might have another condition that means you need to avoid certain medications. In other cases, you might have tried the standard medications and found they didn't get the job done. Your doctor may suggest it to treat pain and depression from MS.


Question: How is the drug mycophenolate mofetil (CellCept) used off-label to help treat MS?

Answer: If you use it for more than 10 years or take more than 600 grams over your lifetime, it may raise your risk of cancer. It can slow down relapsing-remitting MS and cut back on relapses.


Question: How is the drug azathioprine (Imuran) used off-label to help treat MS?

Answer: Over the years, doctors have prescribed everything from cancer drugs to acne medicine to help with MS. It can cut the number of relapses you get and keep your MS from getting worse. If you use it for more than 10 years or take more than 600 grams over your lifetime, it may raise your risk of cancer.


Question: When should you call your doctor about your baby's fever?

Answer: If your baby is under age 3 months and has a fever, take her to a doctor. For at least the first 6 months of life, call your doctor anytime she has a fever. A more important question is: Does your newborn show other symptoms of illness? Call the doctor if your baby: Is irritable Is inactive Is sluggish Doesn't eat Has trouble breathing Has a rash Vomits Has diarrhea Your baby could have a fever for many reasons, but the most likely is infection. Simple things such as colds can cause a fever, but so can very serious infections such as meningitis.


Question: What environments should I avoid to fight fatigue while fighting cancer?

Answer: Identify effects of your environment. Avoid long, hot showers or baths.


Question: How can exercise help with cancer-related fatigue?

Answer: Fatigue symptoms may include: Tired eyes or legs Whole-body tiredness Stiff shoulders Decreased energy or lack of energy Inability to concentrate Weakness or malaise Boredom or lack of motivation Sleepiness Increased irritability or impatience Nervousness or anxiety There are several ways to conserve your energy during your cancer fight. Scientists have found that even healthy athletes forced to spend extended periods in bed or sitting in chairs develop feelings of anxiety, depression, weakness, fatigue, and nausea. Regular, moderate exercise can often decrease these feelings, help you stay active, and increase your energy. Even during cancer therapy, it is often possible to continue exercising.


Question: What is one way people can protect their feet?

Answer: Always protect your feet with shoes, hard-soled slippers, or similar footwear. Wear shoes/boots that will protect your feet from weather conditions like cold and moisture. Go to your doctor or podiatrist to treat these conditions.


Question: What kind of socks and shoes should I wear if I have diabetes?

Answer: Always protect your feet with shoes, hard-soled slippers, or similar footwear. Don't wear shoes with high heels and pointed toes. Avoid shoes that leave your toes or heels unprotected, like open-toed shoes or sandals. Change your socks daily. Wear natural-fibers: cotton, wool, or a cotton-wool blend. Avoid tight socks. Don't wear new shoes for more than an hour at a time. Look and feel inside your shoes before putting them on to make sure there's nothing irritating in them or rough areas. Wear special shoes if your doctor recommends them.


Question: What do the collateral and cruciate ligaments of the knee do?

Answer: These ligaments provide stability and strength to the knee joint. Ligaments within the knee (cruciate ligaments) and on the inner and outer sides of the knee (collateral ligaments) stabilize the joint.


Question: What are surgical methods to repair injured knee ligaments?

Answer: These procedures can be done by either open knee surgery or arthroscopic surgery (described in the section below). The decision to perform various types of surgery depends on the level of damage to the ligaments and the activity expectations of the patient. Surgical repair of ligament injury can involve suturing, grafting, and synthetic graft repair.


Question: How can I take care of myself if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Taking care of yourself is a big part of RA treatment. It includes activity and exercise, diet and weight management, and stress reduction. Take medicine as directed. Always tell your doctor about any side effects. Try and remember all your appointments -- they're important. Use your calendar, day planner, or smartphone to remind you.


Question: What should I do if I have a lot of pain from my rheumatoid arthritis when I exercise?

Answer: When you have joint pain and stiffness, you may not want to exercise. Dealing with RA can be stressful, but there are lots of ways you can lower your stress level: Talk with your doctor or nurse.


Question: Are there some ways I can treat rheumatoid arthritis on my own?

Answer: Your doctor will work with you to help ease your symptoms with medicine and other treatments. There may be arthritis programs in your area.


Question: How can I get relief from SI joint pain?

Answer: You'll also hurt when the cartilage over the SI joint slowly wears away as you age. Your doctor will tell you to lay off any sports that inflame your joint. He may also prescribe some pain drugs. Nerve treatment.


Question: How can nerve treatment help with SI joint pain?

Answer: He may also prescribe some pain drugs. If that doesn't help, your doctor may numb the nerves around your SI joint to give you relief.


Question: How can injections help with SI joint pain?

Answer: Your doctor might also inject a solution of natural ingredients, such as saline, and numbing drugs into your joint. You may hear him call this "prolotherapy." It's thought to help tighten loose ligaments, if that's the cause of your SI joint problem. These treatments usually reduce the inflammation and pain in your joint.


Question: How can I prevent hepatitis C?

Answer: Don't use someone else's needle if you inject illicit drugs. If you think you may have been infected with hepatitis B and you never had a vaccine, let your doctor know. You may be able to prevent an infection if you get a hepatitis B immune globulin shot. If you think you may have picked picked up hepatitis B through sex, you'll need to get this shot within 14 days.


Question: What medications are used to treat pain in children?

Answer: Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter or prescription strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) like ibuprofen ( Motrin, Advil). Aspirin should not be used in children under the age of 19 unless instructed by your doctor, as it can cause Reye's syndrome if used during or after a viral or fever-causing illness. Antidepressants: Antidepressants are drugs that can treat pain and/or emotional conditions by adjusting levels of neurotransmitters (natural chemicals) in the brain. Patient-controlled analgesia ( PCA): Children who are four to six years old may be able to use PCA with the help of a parent or nurse. Pain medication is injected into the epidural space of the spinal cord.


Question: How can physical therapy ease my back pain and make me more flexible?

Answer: It will help you with walking, climbing stairs, or even getting in and out of bed. Whatever your needs, your physical therapist can come up with a treatment plan to suit you. But the first thing he'll try to do is ease your back pain and boost your flexibility. Slow, measured movements are used to twist, pull, or push bones and joints into position. Your therapist puts pressure on your body with his hands or a device.


Question: What should you know about your preschooler's emotional development?

Answer: She has distinct likes and dislikes, and her personality is developing more every day. She is getting better at using words to express how she's feeling, which means fewer tantrums. Her mood may still change drastically from one moment to the next, but she is more likely to talk about being angry or sad rather than having a meltdown. At an age when your child has very little control over her own life, her fantasy world is her own creation.


Question: When do preschoolers start to want independence?

Answer: As your child gets older, she'll begin to see a connection between emotional outbursts and negative consequences. It may sound like a contradiction, but the best way to nurture your preschooler's independence and self-confidence is to keep her life fairly structured. Give her choices, but don't give her endless choices. Let her choose between two outfits to wear, or ask her if she wants a turkey sandwich or macaroni and cheese for lunch. When she asks to do something you know isn't a good idea, hold firm. Being allowed choices within a structured framework will help to boost her self-confidence while at the same time letting her know she's safe and secure.


Question: What are signs that you have a high risk for heart disease if you have diabetes?

Answer: Many people with diabetes also have heart disease. When you do things to take care of your diabetes, like manage your blood sugar, exercise, and eat a healthy diet, that's also good for your heart. Besides diabetes, do you also have: A waist that's larger than 35 inches in women or 40 inches in men? Low levels of "good" ( HDL) cholesterol? High levels of "bad" ( LDL) cholesterol or triglycerides (another type of fat in the blood)? High blood pressure? If you smoke, it's time to quit. Go to all your appointments and let your doctor know how you're doing.


Question: Can I prevent heart disease if I have diabetes?

Answer: When you do things to take care of your diabetes, like manage your blood sugar, exercise, and eat a healthy diet, that's also good for your heart. Many people have both conditions.


Question: What does diabetes do to my heart disease risk?

Answer: When you do things to take care of your diabetes, like manage your blood sugar, exercise, and eat a healthy diet, that's also good for your heart. Many people have both conditions.


Question: What is Plan B One-Step?

Answer: But you don't have to wait until the morning after sex to take it. In fact, levonorgestrel is more effective the sooner you take it. It is a one-dose regimen: you take one pill. The pill contains 1.5 milligrams of levonorgestrel, which is used in lower doses in many birth control pills. If you take it within 72 hours after you've had unprotected sex, levonorgestrel can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89%. But you should know that Plan B One- Step is not as effective as regular contraception.


Question: What are symptoms of low gamma-GT intrahepatic cholestasis?

Answer: Low gamma- GT intrahepatic cholestasis is a rare liver disease that usually shows up in children. The result can be low gamma- GT intrahepatic cholestasis, which causes bile to build up in liver cells and damage the organ. Other symptoms your child may get are: Jaundice, which causes the skin and the whites of the eyes to look yellow Diarrhea or pale, greasy stool Dark-colored urine Discolored teeth Vitamin deficiencies, especially the vitamins A, D, E, and K Delayed growth Gallstones, which happen when solid particles block a bile duct If your doctor suspects a liver problem in your child, you'll probably get referred to a specialist who knows about liver ailments in children.


Question: Can medications for seizures cause anxiety?

Answer: But some drugs target the same parts of your body that play a role in anxiety symptoms. Both of these things can make you restless and anxious, especially if you're taking high doses. But it can cause panic attacks, agitation, and anxiety. Doctors often prescribe a combination drug, levodopa and carbidopa ( Sinemet), to treat Parkinson's.


Question: What seizure drugs can cause anxiety?

Answer: But some drugs target the same parts of your body that play a role in anxiety symptoms. But it can cause panic attacks, agitation, and anxiety. Doctors often prescribe a combination drug, levodopa and carbidopa ( Sinemet), to treat Parkinson's.


Question: How is an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly) treated?

Answer: Here are some common causes of an enlarged spleen: Infections Viral infections, such as mononucleosis Parasitic infections, such as toxoplasmosis Bacterial infections, such as endocarditis (an infection of your heart's valves) Cancer Leukemia, a cancer in which white blood cells displace normal blood cells Lymphoma, a cancer of lymph tissue, such as Hodgkin's disease Other causes of an enlarged spleen include: Inflammatory diseases such as sarcoidosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis Trauma, such as an injury during contact sports Cancer that has spread (metastasized) to the spleen A cyst, a noncancerous fluid-filled sac A large abscess, a pus-filled cavity usually caused by a bacterial infection Infiltrative diseases such as Gaucher disease, amyloidosis, or glycogen storage diseases Most people don't know they have an enlarged spleen because symptoms are rare. A ruptured spleen can cause lots of blood loss and be life threatening. It's important to seek treatment for the cause of your enlarged spleen. Left untreated, an enlarged spleen can lead to serious complications. In most cases, treatment of the underlying cause of the enlarged spleen can prevent removal of the spleen. In some cases, the spleen will need to be removed surgically (splenectomy).


Question: What does it mean if you have an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)?

Answer: But diseases can cause it to swell and become many times its normal size. Because the spleen is involved in many functions, many conditions may affect it. An enlarged spleen is not always a sign of a problem. When a spleen becomes enlarged, though, it often means it has been doing its job but has become overactive. For example, sometimes the spleen is overactive in removing and destroying blood cells. This is called hypersplenism. It can happen for many reasons, including problems with too many platelets and other disorders of the blood. In most cases, treatment of the underlying cause of the enlarged spleen can prevent removal of the spleen.


Question: What are the symptoms of an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)?

Answer: A doctor usually can't feel it during an exam. These are the most common symptoms of an enlarged spleen: Being unable to eat a large meal. Feeling discomfort, fullness, or pain on the upper left side of the abdomen; this pain may spread to your left shoulder.


Question: How can methamphetamine (meth) cause mouth problems?

Answer: Many people who use drugs also smoke. People use the term "meth mouth" to describe this condition of stained, badly damaged teeth. One reason for the damage is that the drug is acidic and causes vomiting and reflux. And even though it makes you less hungry, it makes you crave soda and sweets. The damage can happen in a short amount of time and often leads to the loss of teeth.


Question: What are the most common pulmonary function tests for asthma?

Answer: The most common include: Spirometry: This simple breathing test measures how much air you can breathe in and how quickly you can blow it back out. During this test, you inhale more methacholine mist before and after spirometry. If your lung function drops by at least 20%, you have asthma.


Question: What can I do on my own to lower my triglycerides?

Answer: You get some from the food you eat, and your body makes some. If your numbers are very high, you will likely need to take medicine to reach a healthy range. Talk to your doctor about a weight loss plan that's best for you.


Question: What does a treatment plan for remission depend on?

Answer: You may be able to stop your treatments once you get there. What's in the plan depends on: Your type of cancer What stage it's in Side effects or risks of each treatment Your age or other health problems If your cancer is in an early stage and hasn't spread to other areas of your body, you might choose aggressive treatment.


Question: How are steroids used to treat psoriatic arthritis?

Answer: These can slow or stop pain, swelling, and joint and tissue damage. You take them by mouth or inject them directly into a joint or muscle. They're not the same as the muscle-building type of anabolic steroids. Prednisone is a common steroid. It can help for a short time, but it might make the skin rash worse. Doctors prescribe steroids only when you really need them. If you use them for a long time, you could have serious side effects such as brittle bones, weight gain, hypertension, and diabetes.


Question: Is it common to feel fatigued during cancer treatment?

Answer: It's important to bring this up with your doctor, but there are also a few steps you can take to keep your fatigue in check. Talk it out.


Question: Can my doctor help with fatigue during cancer treatment?

Answer: Talk it out. Keep track of what times of day you feel most tired. Does it get worse after treatment? What makes it better? When you share this with your doctor, she may suggest that you try different medication or look for other causes of your fatigue.


Question: What is amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

Answer: But doctors do have treatments and therapies that can slow down or ease symptoms in you or a loved one. It's commonly known as Lou Gehrig's disease, after the baseball player whose diagnosis and eventual death brought wide public attention to the illness. This condition kills the nerves that control motion in your body. As the disease worsens, you lose the ability to walk, speak, swallow, and eventually, to breathe. About 1 person in 25,000 will be diagnosed with ALS.


Question: Are vision problems a common symptom of multiple sclerosis?

Answer: About half of people with MS will have the condition at least once. If you start to have any symptoms, let your doctor know.


Question: What are the symptoms of vision loss in multiple sclerosis?

Answer: It is called optic neuritis. They include: Blurred vision Graying of vision Blindness in one eye for a short time, especially during an MS flare Pain with eye movement) It's rare to get this condition in both eyes at once.


Question: What are the types of tics?

Answer: Tics. There are two types of tics -- motor tics and vocal tics. These short-lasting sudden movements (motor tics) or uttered sounds (vocal tics) occur suddenly during what is otherwise normal behavior. For instance a person might reach out and touch something repeatedly or kick out with one leg and then the other.


Question: What is the treatment for papilledema?

Answer: If you don't treat it, papilledema can lead to vision loss. For instance, you might need antibiotics for a brain infection, surgery to drain an abscess or remove a tumor, or medicine to dissolve a blood clot. Your doctor may be able to switch a problem medication. Otherwise, your symptoms will likely guide your treatment. With slight papilledema and no symptoms, your doctor might simply keep checking you and do regular testing to spot any vision problems as soon as possible.


Question: How is papilledema diagnosed?

Answer: Papilledema is swelling of your optic disc, the place where the nerve that goes to your brain connects inside your eye. An imaging test, such as an MRI, can provide more details and possibly show what's causing the pressure in your brain. Later on, MRIs can measure how well treatment is working. Your doctor may want you to have a lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap. This test measures the pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid that runs through your brain and spinal cord. Further tests on a sample of this fluid can help diagnose an infection or tumor.


Question: What can untreated papilledema lead to?

Answer: If you don't treat it, papilledema can lead to vision loss. In later stages, your vision can become completely blurred. Some people go blind in one or both eyes.


Question: What causes papilledema?

Answer: That may happen because of: A head injury A brain or spinal cord tumor Inflammation of the brain or any of its coverings, such as meningitis Extremely high blood pressure Bleeding in the brain A blood clot or a problem within certain veins Pus collecting from a brain infection Problems with the flow or amount of fluid that runs through the brain and spinal cord You can also get papilledema as a side effect of taking -- or stopping -- some medications, including: Corticosteroids Isotretinoin Lithium Tetracycline When there's no apparent reason for high pressure inside your skull, the condition is called idiopathic intracranial hypertension ( IIH). This drug helps bring down the pressure inside your head by lessening the amount of fluid in your body as well as the amount of fluid your brain makes.


Question: How can losing weight help with papilledema?

Answer: Also, suddenly gaining an additional 5% to 15% of your body weight raises the odds, regardless of your starting weight. If you're having a hard time, ask your doctor if you might be a candidate for weight loss surgery.


Question: What are the symptoms and complications of papilledema?

Answer: Papilledema is swelling of your optic disc, the place where the nerve that goes to your brain connects inside your eye. It's common to have blurred or double vision, and lose your vision for a few seconds at a time. Other symptoms are headache, queasiness, and throwing up. With IIH, some of these symptoms are more noticeable. You could get a headache every day and feel it on both sides of your head. The headaches may not always be the same intensity, but they do get worse as you keep getting them. You might hear throbbing in your head. Some people go blind in one or both eyes.


Question: Why do people get a blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test?

Answer: Your doctor may order a blood urea nitrogen test as part of a routine health screening. If your doctor suspects you may be getting kidney problems, she may order the BUN test. But if you're getting other blood tests, your doctor may give you directions that may include fasting before the test. If you have low BUN levels, it could indicate: â Liver disease â Malnutrition (when your diet doesn't have enough nutrients or your body can't take them in well) â Overhydration (having too much fluid) But a BUN test is not a way to diagnose these issues, so more tests may be needed Your doctor may also order a creatinine test, which is another blood test that also checks your kidney health.


Question: What can affect blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test results?

Answer: Things that affect your BUN level might include: â High-protein diet (may cause high BUN levels) â Low-protein diet (may cause low BUN levels) â Several medications, including steroids and antibiotics (increased or decreased BUN levels) â Pregnancy â Aging High BUN levels can also indicate various problems with your kidneys. This is because the BUN level by itself doesn't always reveal much.


Question: What do low blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels mean?

Answer: Things that affect your BUN level might include: â High-protein diet (may cause high BUN levels) â Low-protein diet (may cause low BUN levels) â Several medications, including steroids and antibiotics (increased or decreased BUN levels) â Pregnancy â Aging High BUN levels can also indicate various problems with your kidneys. If you have low BUN levels, it could indicate: â Liver disease â Malnutrition (when your diet doesn't have enough nutrients or your body can't take them in well) â Overhydration (having too much fluid) But a BUN test is not a way to diagnose these issues, so more tests may be needed Your doctor may also order a creatinine test, which is another blood test that also checks your kidney health.


Question: How is the flu treated in children?

Answer: Your child may also have diarrhea and vomiting. Treatments for flu include fever reducers and good hydration.


Question: How is the flu tested for in children?

Answer: If it's going around during flu season, the doctor may judge the child to have flu simply from observing the classic symptoms such as fever, listlessness, headaches, chills, body aches, sore throat, stuffy or runny nose, and cough. Several rapid diagnostic kits are now available that vary in sensitivity. The tests can be incorrect; your child may have the flu but his test may come back negative. Or, when it is not flu season, the test result can be falsely positive. Your doctor may decide not to do a flu test, because the result will not affect the way you are treated.


Question: How are prescription omega-3s different from nonprescription?

Answer: This type of omega-3 is found primarily in: Fish Fortified foods, such as some brands of eggs and orange juice Fish oil supplements you can buy without a prescription Prescription fish oil EPA helps lessen inflammation in the body. They are also monitored by the FDA for quality and safety. Your doctor will probably only recommended prescription-strength fish oil if your triglycerides are very high (more than 500 mg/d L). Research suggests very high triglyceride levels are linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. However, more research is needed to determine if prescription omega-3s lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. Very high triglycerides are also linked to pancreatitis.


Question: Does having breast cancer increase your risk for thyroid cancer?

Answer: You can get it at any age. And in men, thyroid cancer grows and spreads more quickly. Other genetic problems that increase the risk of thyroid cancer include: Familial medullary thyroid cancer Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 Cowden disease Iodine is a mineral found in some foods.


Question: Can thyroid cancer be cured and what causes it?

Answer: On the list of most common cancers in the United States, thyroid cancer ranks fifth, and no other cancer is being diagnosed at a faster rate. Your chances of getting thyroid cancer are higher if your mother, father, brother, sister or child got it.


Question: What is a bone bruise and how does it affect your toe?

Answer: Broken toe. To help your bone heal, the ends will have to be set in place. Bone bruise.


Question: What causes a bone bruise in your toes?

Answer: An injury or disease, such as osteoarthritis, can also lead to the condition. It could be that you stubbed your toe or dropped something heavy on it.


Question: What causes aching toes?

Answer: So if your toe hurts, it can be a big deal. There are a lot of reasons you may have an aching toe. There's always the chance you stubbed it, of course, or banged it up while playing sports. But there are also problems like hammertoe or arthritis that could be to blame. Watch out for some telltale symptoms and check with your doctor to figure out the cause. The pain may get worse when you stand or walk.


Question: What causes Morton's neuroma in your toes?

Answer: Too-tight shoes can crowd your toes, forcing them into a bent position. You can also get it if you play sports where your feet pound the ground, such as running. Wearing high-heels has also been linked to Morton's neuroma. You can get relief from symptoms if you switch to shoes with lower heels and more room for your toes. If you broke one of your smaller toes, your doctor may tape the broken toe to the one next to it.


Question: What causes hammer toe, mallet toe, and claw toe?

Answer: Too-tight shoes can crowd your toes, forcing them into a bent position. After a while, the muscles tighten and shorten. Pretty soon you can't straighten your toe. You may be more likely to get these problems because of your genes. For instance, your risk goes up if you have a certain foot shape, such as a long second toe. Some diseases, such as arthritis and diabetes, can also lead to trouble. Wearing high-heels has also been linked to Morton's neuroma.


Question: What causes stiff big toe?

Answer: There are a lot of reasons you may have an aching toe. That puts stress on the joint. An injury or disease, such as osteoarthritis, can also lead to the condition. Your genes may also be partly to blame.


Question: What causes turf toe?

Answer: Turf toe. You often get it when you dance or play sports like soccer or football. Stiff big toe. Arthritis can also lead to the injury.


Question: What are treatments for hammer toe, mallet toe, and claw toe?

Answer: Wearing roomy shoes can also help. They should be at least a half-inch longer than the big toe. Your doctor may recommend wearing shoe inserts or pads to relieve some of the pressure. Over time, the bend in your toe may become permanent and rigid. These cases are more serious. You may need surgery. You'll need to stay off the foot, ice the toe for 20 minutes every 4 hours, wrap it with a medical bandage, and prop up your foot to ease swelling. If you broke one of your smaller toes, your doctor may tape the broken toe to the one next to it.


Question: What is the most common cold virus that affects eyes?

Answer: But you can't wear them all the time. It's easily spread to your eyes by your hands, and it's stubborn and hard to treat. The herpes simplex virus -- both the kind that causes cold sores and the kind responsible for the STD -- can cause keratitis.


Question: What are some risks for contact lenses wearers?

Answer: People who wear contact lenses have a higher risk for keratitis, an infection of the cornea, the clear outer covering of your eye. They're also called corneal ulcers. Viruses, bacteria, fungi, and a rare but serious eye parasite can cause keratitis. It's also easier for you to catch pinkeye, or conjunctivitis, when you wear contacts. These infections come from a bacteria or virus in the thin membrane covering the white part of your eye and the inside of your eyelids. Put them in the case, and bring them when you see your eye doctor. They can infect your eye more easily if you're wearing contacts while you're in the water.


Question: What is pseudomonas aeruginosa?

Answer: Mild bacterial infections of the eye surface usually clear up after treatment with antibiotic eyedrops. Viruses that cause upper respiratory infections and the chickenpox virus can also infect your cornea. Keep your lens case clean.


Question: Ccan a food allergy be tied to a latex allergy?

Answer: It's called a cross-reaction, and it only happens to some people. If you're sensitive to latex, your body reacts to certain proteins. Some of these proteins are found in foods. But if you're allergic to latex, you may want to be careful around these foods.


Question: Is thyroid cancer treatable?

Answer: If it's caught early, thyroid cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer. Even so, you have a good chance for a full recovery. And surgery, when it's needed, can sometimes cure it.


Question: What is osteoarthritis of the spine?

Answer: Sometimes, osteoarthritis produces spurs that put pressure on the nerves leaving the spinal column. This can cause weakness and pain in the arms or legs. Osteoarthritis of the spine may cause stiffness or pain in the neck or back.


Question: What are other treatments for osteoarthritis?

Answer: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) are also available over-the-counter in certain strengths. Examples include aspirin, naproxen sodium ( Aleve), and ibuprofen ( Motrin or Advil). Topical ointments and creams are also available to treat pain. They are applied to the skin in the area that hurts, but generally, these are not effective. Examples of topical drugs include Ben- Gay and Aspercreme. Your doctor may also recommend prescription drugs to treat symptoms, as there are no medications that reverse the process. These may include prescription painkillers, mild narcotics, or injections of corticosteroids around the spinal column called epidural steroid injections. It is important to understand that these injections do not correct the underlying problem and are sometimes used without clear indication of long-term benefit.


Question: What are the best kinds of jobs for people recovering slowly or worried about returning to work after an organ transplant?

Answer: Most people who get an organ transplant can go back to work. If you've been sick and out of work for some time, returning can be hard. People working in very competitive fields may feel out of the loop after an organ transplant. If you're recovering slowly or worried about returning to work, Punch recommends that you start with a volunteer job.


Question: How can I make interactions with coworkers more normal after returning from an organ transplant?

Answer: Your co-workers may seem to have left you behind, Punch cautions. Going back to work after a long absence can make you feel like the new kid in school all over again. You're craving to feel normal, but can't because everyone is treating you so strangely. They think that a transplant recipient must still be gravely ill. Or they treat you like a fragile medical marvel. So it may be up to you to tell them otherwise.


Question: Can people who get an organ transplant go back to work?

Answer: Settling back into your old job can help you feel like yourself again -- and it pays the bills, too. But readjusting can be a challenge. You may not slide back into your job as smoothly as you like. Though you may be sitting in the same chair behind the same desk, things may not feel quite the same. People working in very competitive fields may feel out of the loop after an organ transplant.


Question: What should I do if I am being treated unfairly at work after an organ transplant?

Answer: Unfortunately, some of these common misconceptions about organ transplants can be more than annoyances. Many corporations, if they find out that you have a transplant, are afraid to take you on," says Friedman. " If you feel that you're being treated unfairly at work, don't accept it. Talk to people on your health care team. Many transplant centers have social workers who will help you transition back into life. Get some advice from folks in a support group.


Question: Does a sperm's shape matter for fertility?

Answer: Even if you have a normal sperm count, they still have to be healthy enough to make the journey from your partner's vagina to the cervix and uterus to the fallopian tubes. The more normal-shaped sperm you have, the easier it will be for them to reach your partner's egg.


Question: Does smoking affect sperm quality?

Answer: Your lifestyle factors in, too, so if you smoke or use recreational drugs, they can affect your fertility. Men who smoke are more likely to have lower sperm count, density, and motility. They also produce less semen than men who don't smoke.


Question: Can ankle sprains be prevented?

Answer: Compression can help keep down swelling. Your ankle continues to hurt after 2 weeks Any swelling persists or worsens Ankle sprain prevention can be as simple as wearing the right shoes or as complicated as balance training for athletes. Wear the proper shoes for the activity. You should always wear stable shoes that give your ankle the proper support. High-top basketball shoes are a good choice. ( High heels or platform shoes are not the best choice if you're trying to prevent an ankle sprain.) If you are participating in a sport, you might want to consider having a weak ankle taped to offer extra support. If you have repeated sprains, wearing an ankle brace while playing may help as well. Make sure that the playing field is clear of any holes or obstacles. Check with your doctor first.


Question: What are signs of an ankle fracture?

Answer: The following conditions suggest you might have a fracture, or you may need a splint for pain control. Severe or uncontrolled pain Foot or ankle is misshapen or extremely swollen Cannot walk without pain Severe pain when pressing over the medial or lateral malleolus, the bony bumps on each side of the ankle The doctor will check to see if a fracture or other serious injury has happened to require immediate care. But check with your doctor first if you have any medical problems or take any other medicines.


Question: What causes an ankle sprain?

Answer: An unnatural twisting motion can happen when the foot is planted awkwardly, when the ground is uneven, or when an unusual amount of force is applied to the joint. Note it is turned inward.


Question: Should I use ice on an ankle sprain?

Answer: Put the ankle joint at rest by wearing a brace or splint. Ice will counteract the increased blood flow to the injured area. It will reduce the swelling, redness, and warmth. Applied soon after the injury, ice will prevent much of the inflammation from happening. Compression wraps, such as Ace bandages, do not provide much support to prevent movement of the ankle, and you should not apply them tightly.


Question: When should you call your doctor about an ankle sprain?

Answer: A follow-up visit 1-2 weeks after the injury is advisable to help with flexibility and strengthening exercises. The indications to go to a hospital's emergency department are similar to those for which to call the doctor. Severe or uncontrolled pain Foot or ankle is misshapen or extremely swollen Cannot walk without pain Severe pain when pressing over the medial or lateral malleolus, the bony bumps on each side of the ankle The doctor will check to see if a fracture or other serious injury has happened to require immediate care. X-rays are often, but not always, needed to make sure that a fracture is not present.


Question: When should you seek medical care for phlebitis?

Answer: If you are not better in a week or two or if it gets any worse, get reevaluated to make sure you don't have a more serious condition. Your health care provider will examine you and ask questions about your symptoms.


Question: How is phlebitis diagnosed?

Answer: Call your health care provider if you have signs and symptoms of swelling, pain, and inflamed superficial veins on the arms or legs. D-dimer is a blood test that measures a substance that is released as a blood clot dissolves. If this blood test is negative, and you have no risk factors, then it is unlikely that you have a blood clot. Ultrasound can detect clots or blockage of blood flow, especially in larger, more proximal (upper leg) veins. A small hand-held instrument (probe) is pressed against your skin to help identify blood clots and where the obstruction is. This is a painless, noninvasive test. Occasionally a venogram is needed to identify blood clots in the smaller, more distal veins. This is an invasive procedure that requires injecting X-ray dye or contrast material into a vein on the foot, then an X-ray is taken of the flow of the dye up the leg.


Question: What is phlebitis?

Answer: Thrombophlebitis usually occurs in leg veins, but it may occur in an arm. The thrombus in the vein causes pain and irritation and may block blood flow in the veins. Phlebitis can occur in both the surface (superficial) or deep veins. phlebitis, blood clot in the arm, blood clot in the leg, deep venous thrombophlebitis, thrombophlebitis, superficial vein thrombophlebitis, superficial phlebitis, thrombus, inflammation of a vein, deep vein thrombophlebitis


Question: When do you need to go to the emergency department for evaluation?

Answer: If you have any of these signs and symptoms, go to a hospital emergency department for evaluation: High fever with any symptoms in an arm or leg Lumps in a leg Severe pain and swelling in an arm or leg New, unexplained significant shortness of breath, which could be the first tip-off that a blood clot has already traveled to your lung; call 911if you are having trouble breathing. phlebitis, blood clot in the arm, blood clot in the leg, deep venous thrombophlebitis, thrombophlebitis, superficial vein thrombophlebitis, superficial phlebitis, thrombus, inflammation of a vein, deep vein thrombophlebitis


Question: How can you treat phlebitis at home?

Answer: An anti-inflammatory drug, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, can help lessen the pain and inflammation of superficial phlebitis. If you increase your walking, you increase blood flow. This helps prevent blood clots from developing. Prescription leg compression stockings (knee or thigh high) improve your blood flow and may help to relieve your pain and swelling. Avoid bed rest for prolonged periods. If you have a history of deep vein thrombophlebitis, or if the phlebitis might possibly spread to the deep veins, you will need to take a blood thinner (anticoagulant).


Question: How is Cushing’s syndrome in dogs treated?

Answer: If Cushing’s syndrome comes from a tumor on your pet’s adrenal glands, the vet might be able to remove it with surgery, which will cure him of the problem. But if the tumor has spread to other parts of his body or he has other health problems, surgery may not be an option. Usually, a dog can live an active, normal life with medication to treat the condition, though he’ll need it for the rest of his life. Drugs are best for dogs with Cushing’s syndrome caused by the pituitary gland or for those with a tumor on their adrenal gland that can't be removed with surgery. The most common drug is trilostane ( Vetoryl). Your pup will need regular check-ups and blood tests to make sure his treatment is working.


Question: What role does plaque play in peripheral artery disease?

Answer: Arteries move blood away from the heart. Peripheral arteries carry blood to other tissues and organs throughout your body. Both can have deposits of fat, cholesterol, and other substances on their inside walls. These deposits are known as plaque. Over time, plaque can build up, narrowing the vessel and making it hard for blood to flow.


Question: What is Buerger's disease?

Answer: Any condition that affects this system is considered vascular disease. This rare disease most often affects the small and medium sized arteries and veins in your arms and legs. They swell up and may get blocked by clots, cutting off blood supply to your fingers, hands, toes, or feet. These body parts will hurt, even when you're resting. If it's severe, you might need to amputate fingers or toes that have died. People with Buerger's disease may also have Raynaud's phenomenon. Although the cause is unknown, there's a strong association with tobacco use -- including cigars and chewing tobacco -- and secondhand smoke.


Question: What is vascular disease?

Answer: A system of flexible tubes -- some big, some very tiny -- move fluids throughout your body. This whole network of vessels is known as your vascular or circulatory system. " Any condition that affects this system is considered vascular disease. The diseases range from problems with your arteries, veins, and vessels that carry lymph to disorders that affect how blood flows. A disease can lead to your tissues not getting enough blood, a condition called ischemia, as well as other serious, even life-threatening, problems.


Question: How can a secondary lymphedema happen?

Answer: It relies on valves in the vessels and muscle contractions to keep the lymph moving. When vessels or nodes are missing or don't work right, fluid can build up and cause swelling, most often in your arms or legs. This is called lymphedema. A blockage or interruption of the lymphatic system is called secondary lymphedema. It can happen because of: Cancer and cancer treatments, including radiation Deep vein thrombosis ( DVT) Infection Scar tissue formation Serious injury Surgery


Question: What can damaged vein valves cause?

Answer: Unlike arteries, veins have flaps inside called valves. They're usually caused by: Conditions that slow blood flow or make blood thicker, such as congestive heart failure and certain tumors Damaged valves in a vein Damaged veins from injury or infection Genetic disorders that make your blood more likely to clot Hormones, such as estrogen from pregnancy and birth control pills Long bed rest or not being able to move much Surgery, especially some operations on your hips and legs Damaged vein valves or a DVT can cause long-term blood pooling and swelling in your legs, too. That's called chronic venous insufficiency. If you don't do anything about it, fluid will leak into the tissues in your ankles and feet. It may eventually make your skin break down and wear away.


Question: What are different problems of peripheral artery disease?

Answer: Peripheral arteries carry blood to other tissues and organs throughout your body. For example: Blockage in coronary arteries can cause chest pain (angina) or a heart attack. If it's in the carotid arteries that supply your brain, it can lead to a stroke or mini stroke, which is called a transient ischemic attack or TIA. Blockage in the kidneys can lead to trouble with how they work, uncontrolled high blood pressure, and heart failure. A blockage in a leg can lead to leg pain or cramps when you're active -- a condition called claudication -- skin color change, sores or ulcers, and your legs feeling tired. When you don't have any blood flow to a part of your body, the tissues could die.


Question: What is Raynaud's Phenomenon (Raynaud's Disease or Raynaud's Syndrome)?

Answer: Any condition that affects this system is considered vascular disease. This can temporarily shut down blood supply to the area, making your skin look white or bluish and feel cold or numb. The working conditions of some jobs bring on Raynaud's. Or the symptoms might be related to underlying diseases, including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and scleroderma. It happens when you're born without certain lymph vessels or when you have a problem with the tubes themselves.


Question: Who is commonly affected by seasonal depression (seasonal affective disorder)?

Answer: In general, though, seasonal affective disorder starts in fall or winter and ends in spring or early summer. Some people with SAD have mild symptoms and feel out of sorts or irritable. Others have worse symptoms that interfere with relationships and work. Because the lack of enough daylight during wintertime is related to SAD, it's less often found in countries where there's plenty of sunshine year-round.


Question: What is seasonal depression (seasonal affective disorder)?

Answer: A rare form of seasonal depression, known as "summer depression," begins in late spring or early summer and ends in fall. In general, though, seasonal affective disorder starts in fall or winter and ends in spring or early summer. If you feel depressed, fatigued, and irritable the same time each year, and these feelings seem to be seasonal in nature, you may have a form of SAD.


Question: What medications can ease pain from a workout injury?

Answer: Check with your doctor. You can still be active as long as you don't stress the injury.


Question: How quickly do workout injuries usually heal?

Answer: If you are a biker, always wear a helmet. If you're concerned about the injury, it's best to seek medical advice.


Question: What is cervical dystonia?

Answer: At first, typically, it affects just one eye. Cervical dystonia, or torticollis, is the most common type. Cervical dystonia affects the neck muscles, causing the head to twist and turn or be pulled backward or forward.


Question: How many children are diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: Of the 400,000 diagnosed cases of MS in the U. S., 8,000 to 10,000 are in people younger than age 18. Neurologists think there are probably many more kids with MS that haven't been diagnosed. Multiple sclerosis may get worse more slowly in children than in adults.


Question: What medications has the FDA approved to treat multiple sclerosis in children?

Answer: Of the 400,000 diagnosed cases of MS in the U. S., 8,000 to 10,000 are in people younger than age 18. But doctors use some of them to treat children with the condition, but at a different dose than adults get. Medications for children with MS include: Interferon beta-1a ( Avonex, Rebif) Interferon beta-1b ( Betaseron) Glatiramer acetate ( Copaxone) Your child will get these meds by injection -- either into the muscle or beneath the skin.


Question: What is the cure for multiple sclerosis (MS) in children?

Answer: Corticosteroids can ease attacks, but they don't prevent them. But there are many treatments to help relieve them, including physical and occupational therapy, counseling, and medications.


Question: Do children get multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Of the 400,000 diagnosed cases of MS in the U. S., 8,000 to 10,000 are in people younger than age 18. Neurologists think there are probably many more kids with MS that haven't been diagnosed. Multiple sclerosis may get worse more slowly in children than in adults.


Question: Do I need a spacer in my inhaler?

Answer: An asthma inhaler is a handheld device that delivers medication straight into your lungs. You push the inhaler, it sprays out the medicine, and you breathe it in. Not all inhalers are used with a spacer, so ask your pharmacist if you need one. Spacers with masks are available for use by small children or anyone else who can't breathe in through a standard spacer. See Web MD's articles for instructions on using an MDI inhaler with a spacer, without a spacer, and with a mask spacer.


Question: What is a nebulizer and how do they work?

Answer: Asthma inhalers can deliver drugs in a variety of ways. That makes them good for children or people with severe asthma who may not be able to use an HFA or DPI properly. This makes the device easier to use and helps get the medication into your lungs.


Question: How do you know if there is enough medicine in your inhaler?

Answer: You push the inhaler, it sprays out the medicine, and you breathe it in. Many inhalers contain steroids, like prednisone, to treat inflammation. The best way to tell how many doses remain is to mark the number of doses used on the inhaler and then toss it after you've used this number of puffs. You can find the total number of doses on the box or canister. Mark the date on your calendar when you expect to use all of the available puffs in the new inhaler, and replace it before then. Keep one or two extra quick-relief inhalers at home.


Question: What are hydrofluoroalkane inhalers or HFAs and how do they work?

Answer: They work like a spray can. You push the inhaler, it sprays out the medicine, and you breathe it in. A tube-like gadget called a spacer can help kids or people with trouble breathing use an HFA more easily. You can find the total number of doses on the box or canister.


Question: What are bronchodilator asthma inhalers?

Answer: Others have a type of drug called a bronchodilator to open up your airways. They include: Short-acting beta-agonists ( Pro Air HFA, Proventil HFA, Ventolin HFA, and Xoponex) Long-acting beta-agonists ( Foradil and Serevent). The combination inhalers containing both a long-acting beta-agonist and a steroid include Advair, Dulera, and Symbicort. Long-acting anticholinergics such as tiotropium bromide ( Spiriva Respimat), available for anyone ages 6 and older. This medicine can be used in addition to your regular maintenance medication. Combivent and Duo Neb inhalers contain both albuterol and ipratropium (a bronchodilator); albuterol and ipratropium may also be given using a nebulizer. For in-depth information, see Web MD's article on Bronchodilators: Relieving Asthma Symptoms.


Question: What are dry powder inhalers (DPIs) and how do they work?

Answer: Do you puff and breathe, or breathe and puff? Read the instructions carefully if you get a different brand, because they vary widely and the new one may not work like your old one. That makes them good for children or people with severe asthma who may not be able to use an HFA or DPI properly.


Question: What affects cholesterol levels?

Answer: Everyone over 20 should get a cholesterol test at least once every 5 years. If your numbers are high, your doctor may recommend the test more often. But the body only needs a limited amount of cholesterol. How does the doctor know I have high cholesterol?


Question: What foods increase my risk for high cholesterol?

Answer: It's also found in certain foods, such as dairy products, eggs, and meat. Dietary cholesterol, found in eggs and organ meats, can also raise blood cholesterol levels, but not as much as saturated fat does. You eat foods containing trans fats. These are artificially made fats found in partially hydrogenated oils. They raise LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol -- exactly the wrong combination. You eat processed foods or foods high in carbohydrates. These types of foods have also been shown to increase LDL cholesterol. To reduce your cholesterol, one of the most important change to make is to cut back on the amount of saturated fat and trans fats in your diet.


Question: How can losing weight prevent high cholesterol?

Answer: You are overweight or obese. The average American now gets more than 20% of calories from beverages. Switching to water is painless and can make a big difference in total calories.


Question: What diet changes can prevent high cholesterol?

Answer: Your risk of having high cholesterol increases if: Your diet is high in saturated fat. It also means eating less fried food, processed food, and foods high in sugar. It is also important to increase the amount of soluble fiber you eat. This form of fiber, found in oatmeal, kidney beans, and apples, for example, helps remove LDL from the body.


Question: How does sex therapy work for erectile dysfunction?

Answer: A typical session may be one hour every week or every other week. During the session, the counselor will give the patient "assignments" to do at home, such as: Reading books about sexuality Touching exercises that are designed to take away the pressure to perform during sex Practicing better sexual communication skills Sex therapy may be useful for treating erectile dysfunction if a man is able to have a normal erection during sleep, the results of his physical exam and blood tests are normal, and he is generally in good health. Sex therapy is most effective when a man's sexual partner is willing to be part of the treatment.


Question: What are ways to incorporate omega-3s into dinner?

Answer: Your body can change it into EPA and DHA, but it doesn't do this very well. Some cereals, milks, eggs, and yogurt are fortified with omega-3s. Try these options: A bowl of cereal with fortified milk, soy milk, or almond milk An omelet with fortified eggs Cold cereal or oatmeal with chopped walnuts, pumpkin seeds, ground flaxseeds, or chia seeds A breakfast shake with fortified milk, tofu, frozen berries, fruit juice, and ice Soups and salads with walnuts, flaxseeds, or chia seeds Leafy greens and albacore tuna salad with low-fat mayonnaise A tossed salad with walnut oil and balsamic vinegar A grilled salmon burger with fresh baby spinach Sardines in mustard or tomato sauce with flaxseed crackers A handful of walnuts and dried fruit Yogurt with chia seeds and fresh fruit Edamame (steamed green soybeans) with a little bit of salt Salmon, trout, or halibut. Kale and white bean stew Navy bean and ham soup Chili with kidney beans and ground turkey Soybean pasta with ground turkey breast and light tomato sauce


Question: What are health or medical related risk factors for type 2 diabetes?

Answer: Your doctor may be able to help if you have: Prediabetes Heart and blood vessel disease High blood pressure, even if it's treated and under control Low HDL ("good") cholesterol High triglycerides Being overweight or obese Having a baby that weighed more than 9 pounds Having gestational diabetes while you were pregnant Polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS) Acanthosis nigricans, a skin condition with dark rashes around your neck or armpits Depression Other things that raise your risk of diabetes have to do with your daily habits and lifestyle. Your doctor can test your blood for signs of type 2 diabetes.


Question: If I quit smoking will I prevent type 2 diabetes?

Answer: While certain things make getting type 2 diabetes more likely, they won't give you the disease. Work with your doctor to avoid gaining weight, so you don't create one problem by solving another. Your doctor can test your blood for signs of type 2 diabetes.


Question: What causes tennis elbow?

Answer: Any activity that strains the muscles around the elbow over and over again can cause it. There's also a version golfers get called âgolfer's elbow.â In tennis, hitting a backhand puts some stress on your forearm muscles, which repeatedly contract when you hit the ball. If you have poor technique or grip the racquet too tightly, that stress may increase in the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the elbow. The tendons may get small tears. The more you do it -- and tennis is a game of repeated strokes -- the greater the chance for tennis elbow. But the causes are similar: tendon tears caused by repetitive movement, whether it's a golf swing, lifting weights, or simply shaking hands.


Question: How is tennis elbow treated?

Answer: Tennis elbow is a pain focused on the outside of the arm, where your forearm meets your elbow. Tennis elbow can usually be treated with exercise, physical therapy, and medications such as ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin), naproxen ( Aleve), and aspirin. Talk to your doctor if you have ongoing pain and think you may need to take pain relievers for an extended time.


Question: What does it feel like to have tennis elbow?

Answer: It's related to a muscle and tendons in your forearm. Tendons connect your muscles to your bones. When you constantly use your arm in a repetitive motion, the tendons at the elbow end of a certain muscle -- the extensor carpi radialis brevis ( ECRB) muscle --- may develop small tears. The tears lead to inflammation and may put stress on the rest of your arm, making it painful to lift and grip things. Left untreated, it can become chronic (that's medical-speak for âongoingâ). Tennis elbow affects up to 3% of the population, particularly adults between 30 and 50 years of age. Golfer's elbow differs from tennis elbow in that the pain is focused on the inside of the elbow.


Question: What are the symptoms of muscle pain related to myositis?

Answer: Some people with myositis have muscle pain, but many do not. These and other ordinary muscle pains are called myalgias. There are many causes of muscle weakness and pain more common than myositis, and testing for myositis is not a straightforward process.


Question: What is traditional sling surgery?

Answer: With women, doctors use two types of sling surgery: Mid-urethral sling surgery is the most common. Traditional sling surgery is more involved than mid-urethral surgery. Your surgeon will take a strip of tissue from your stomach or thigh to make the sling, or they might use tissue from a donor. Then they'll make two cuts, one in your vagina and one in your belly. They'll stretch the sling through the cut in your stomach, then stitch it to the inside of your stomach wall. Men also can have sling surgery. The surgeon will make a small cut between the scrotum and anus and put the sling around part of the urethral bulb (the enlarged end of the urethra in men). This will squeeze and lift the urethra, which helps prevent leaks.


Question: What is sling surgery?

Answer: The sling is like a hammock that lifts and supports your urethra and the neck of your bladder (where your bladder connects to your urethra) to help prevent leaks. Lifestyle changes like losing weight and doing Kegel exercises may help if you have a mild case of urinary stress incontinence. But if you've tried those and still have symptoms that affect your quality of life, sling surgery might be an option. In most cases, it lessens or stops urine leaks. With women, doctors use two types of sling surgery: Mid-urethral sling surgery is the most common. The sling is then put under your urethra. Your surgeon will take a strip of tissue from your stomach or thigh to make the sling, or they might use tissue from a donor. That's a thin, flexible tube that helps drain pee from your body when you can't use the bathroom on your own.


Question: What is sedation dentristy?

Answer: Sedation can be used for everything from invasive procedures to a simple tooth cleaning. Sedation dentistry uses medication to help patients relax during dental procedures. It's sometimes referred to as "sleep dentistry," although that's not entirely accurate. Patients are usually awake with the exception of those who are under general anesthesia. Regardless of which type of sedation you receive, you'll also typically need a local anesthetic -- numbing medication at the site where the dentist is working in the mouth -- to relieve pain if the procedure causes any discomfort.


Question: What changes in my moods show I'm headed for menopause?

Answer: Some women may go through âthe changeâ earlier if they've had surgery to remove their uterus or ovaries or are having certain treatments for cancer. Whatever the reason, you deserve to feel good. If you've been down for more than a few weeks, tell your doctor. Together, you can decide on a treatment to help you feel better. Your body also might change so that you have more fat around the waist and more fat and less muscle in general.


Question: What changes in my period show I'm headed for menopause?

Answer: You may have hot flashes and irregular periods. This time is called perimenopause. Your periods may come more often or less often, be heavier or lighter, or last longer or shorter than before. When you're in perimenopause, it can be hard to predict when, or if, your next period may come. It's also harder to gauge how long your period will last or if your flow will be heavy or light. It's harder to get pregnant during this phase, but it's still possible as long as you have periods. Some chemotherapy drugs used to treat cancer can also make your periods irregular. Any bleeding, even just spotting, after menopause isn't normal. You need to talk to your doctor.


Question: How do I know if I'm in menopause?

Answer: Most women go through menopause in their 40s or 50s. One study found that half of the women in the U. S. reach menopause before about age 52. Some women may go through âthe changeâ earlier if they've had surgery to remove their uterus or ovaries or are having certain treatments for cancer. Your periods may come more often or less often, be heavier or lighter, or last longer or shorter than before. When you're in perimenopause, it can be hard to predict when, or if, your next period may come. It's harder to get pregnant during this phase, but it's still possible as long as you have periods. Any bleeding, even just spotting, after menopause isn't normal.


Question: What physical changes show I'm headed for menopause?

Answer: Some women have no symptoms at all. During menopause, the skin around your vagina may become drier. Your body also might change so that you have more fat around the waist and more fat and less muscle in general. You may also find it a little harder to move, with stiff joints or joints that hurt. It's important to stay active. You may need to work harder to keep your strength and stay in shape.


Question: How are drug allergies treated?

Answer: In some cases, a person goes into shock. Your doctor would give you tiny amounts of the drug by mouth, by IV, or with a shot in increasing amounts until your immune system learns to tolerate the medicine. If you're severely allergic to certain antibiotics, your doctor can usually find an unrelated antibiotic that is safe for you.


Question: Can I be allergic to a drug?

Answer: In an allergic reaction, your immune system mistakenly creates a response against the drug. It makes chemicals -- like histamine, and lots of it -- to get the medicine out of your body. Other antibiotics can also cause allergic reactions.


Question: When should I tell my doctor about my drug allergies?

Answer: If you've had a life-threatening reaction to a medication, your doctor will just rule out that drug as a treatment option. These items could save your life in an emergency.


Question: What are possible interactions when taking phenylalanine?

Answer: People with certain conditions should avoid using this supplement, including those with Schizophrenia ( Tardive dyskinesia, a movement disorder, may develop.) You also should avoid the supplement if you have a sensitivity to phenylalanine or a condition in which your body can't break down phenylalanine. And use caution in taking phenylalanine if you have: High blood pressure Trouble sleeping Anxiety or other psychiatric problems Also, it is unknown whether this supplement is safe in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. If taken with certain antidepressants, this supplement could lead to: Hypomania Constipation Insomnia Higher blood pressure Phenylalanine might also: Keep drugs for high blood pressure from working properly Increase the effect of sedatives It may also affect how your body breaks down other drugs and supplements.


Question: How are tests done before radioembolization?

Answer: These include routine blood tests and an evaluation of blood flow, including an initial angiogram. The first angiogram serves as a test run, allowing a doctor to make sure the arteries of the abdomen and liver are suitable for radioembolization. Potential complications of radioembolization include: Severe ulcers in the stomach or small intestine Liver or gallbladder failure Dangerously low white blood cell count Radiation damage to the lungs Tests performed before radioembolization can reduce some of the risks of complications from the procedure.


Question: What happens before a radioembolization?

Answer: These include routine blood tests and an evaluation of blood flow, including an initial angiogram. The first angiogram serves as a test run, allowing a doctor to make sure the arteries of the abdomen and liver are suitable for radioembolization. Potential complications of radioembolization include: Severe ulcers in the stomach or small intestine Liver or gallbladder failure Dangerously low white blood cell count Radiation damage to the lungs Tests performed before radioembolization can reduce some of the risks of complications from the procedure.


Question: What is radioembolization?

Answer: Radioembolization is most often used on cancers in the liver. Radioembolization is sometimes used for patients who may not be able to undergo other treatments. Experts are still determining its ideal uses. The particles stay in the tumor, blocking blood flow to cancer cells, killing them, and shrinking the tumor.


Question: Why do people get breast implants?

Answer: That can be done for reconstructive purposes, such as after mastectomy for breast cancer, or for cosmetic reasons. Having breast implants can make it more difficult to get a mammogram, but special X-ray views can be done.


Question: What are the signs of hyperactive and impulsive ADHD?

Answer: The person who evaluates your child will check on symptoms for each type: Hyperactive and Impulsive Often fidgets with or taps hands or feet, or squirms in seat. Often leaves seat in situations when remaining seated is expected. Often runs about or climbs in situations where it is not appropriate (adolescents or adults may be limited to feeling restless). Often blurts out an answer before a question has been completed. Often has trouble waiting his/her turn. Often interrupts or intrudes on others (e.g., butts into conversations or games) Inattentive Often fails to give close attention to details or makes careless mistakes in schoolwork, at work, or with other activities.


Question: What causes ADHD symptoms if not a medical condition?

Answer: The evaluator will check on other possible causes of your child's behavior. If they've been through a major life change (such as a move or a divorce, for example), that might also be affecting their behavior. Figuring out what's going on is all part of the evaluation process.


Question: How can damaged heart valves cause right-side heart failure?

Answer: The higher your blood pressure, the harder your heart is working to pump it. Damaged heart valves. Eventually, it will become weakened.


Question: How can lung disease cause right-side heart failure?

Answer: This is the most common form of heart disease and cause of heart failure. Your doctor may call this âcor pulmonale.â Other long-term health conditions.


Question: How can congenital heart defects cause right-side heart failure?

Answer: If you were, it could increase your odds of heart failure. Diabetes, HIV, and thyroid problems are examples of health issues that do not go away and eventually could play a part in heart failure.


Question: What are the symptoms of right-side heart failure?

Answer: That means your heart can't fill with enough blood, and the blood backs up into the veins. If this happens, your legs, ankles, and belly often swell. This is when your heart has an irregular heartbeat. This symptom is called edema. As your heart failure gets worse, you may also see some of these symptoms: It's hard to breathe. Your neck veins are swollen. Your pulse is fast or feels âoff.â Your chest hurts. You're gaining weight from excess fluid. You don't feel like eating. Your skin is cold and sweaty. You're very tired. You're confused and forget things. She may suggest medications to make you more comfortable.


Question: When will I be able to see that the treatment for my Crohn's disease is working?

Answer: That means inflammation stops causing painful damage to your bowel and colon because your immune system is working like it should. But it could take up to 4 months to really get results.


Question: Will my Crohn's disease symptoms go away?

Answer: It measures 18 symptoms, including pain and diarrhea, and gives you a score. This is called maintenance therapy.


Question: What steps can help lower my risk for a Crohn's disease flare-up?

Answer: You can be in: Clinical remission: You have no symptoms. Eat healthy foods: Add these to your diet: Dairy products Fish Fruit Healthy fats (olive oil, non-hydrogenated nut/seed butters) Insoluble fiber (brown rice, whole wheat bread and pasta) Nuts and seeds Oats Poultry Soluble fiber (oats, psyllium, pulses) Whole foods Take these steps to help lower your risk of a Crohn's flare-up: Don't smoke, or get help to quit. Don't take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin for minor aches and pains. They can cause bleeding or ulcers in your gut. Don't take an antibiotic for an infection unless your gastroenterologist says it's OK. Keep up with doctor's appointments to make sure you have no signs of Crohn's coming back. Stay up to date with vaccinations or health screenings that your doctor suggests. If your insurance changes and you can't afford your maintenance drugs, let your doctor know right away.


Question: What signs will I notice if my Crohn's disease is in remission?

Answer: Blood tests will show normal inflammation levels. Your Crohn's disease activity index ( CDAI) score may be below 150 -- more on this below. Lesions in your bowel or colon start to heal. You feel normal and have a good quality of life. Treatment makes it more likely that you'll go into remission and stay there.


Question: How can you control your blood pressure?

Answer: Bring down your numbers with diet, exercise, weight loss, and blood pressure medicines if you need them. To avoid heart problems, eat a heart-healthy diet, get more active, and take medicine to lower your blood sugar if your doctor tells you to. This puts added strain on your heart.


Question: When is flu season?

Answer: You might also have: Severe aches in muscles and joints Pain and tiredness around your eyes Weakness or extreme fatigue Warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes A headache A dry cough A sore throat and runny nose Adults with seasonal flu don't usually vomit or have diarrhea, but children might. Get immediate medical help if you have any of the following: Trouble breathing or shortness of breath Pain or pressure in your chest or belly Sudden dizziness Confusion Severe vomiting In most cases, the best way to treat it is to: Rest at home. This first outbreak is soon followed by an uptick in other groups, including parents.


Question: How do I know if I have the flu?

Answer: Is it a cold, or do you have the flu? You might also have: Severe aches in muscles and joints Pain and tiredness around your eyes Weakness or extreme fatigue Warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes A headache A dry cough A sore throat and runny nose Adults with seasonal flu don't usually vomit or have diarrhea, but children might.


Question: Who shouldn't use interferon drugs to treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: When you take them, be sure to use birth control. Chest pain or tightness A fast or irregular heartbeat Anxiety Flushing Trouble breathing You shouldn't take the drug if you're pregnant.


Question: What is extavia and how does it treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Betaseron. This one also comes as an injection that goes just under the skin every other day.


Question: What are interferons and how are they related to multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Three forms -- alpha, beta, and gamma -- control the activity of your immune system. But doctors also can use a man-made version of these forms to treat MS, especially interferon beta. The way it's made makes it last longer in your body.


Question: What are ways to help my partner deal with erectile dysfunction (ED)?

Answer: Learn as much as you can about ED. The more you know, the better prepared you'll be able to help your partner. Remind him that ED isn't a reflection on his masculinity, and that it hasn't changed how you feel about him. You're affected, too. Find other ways to please and satisfy each other so that he doesn't feel pressured to perform. Offer to go with him to the doctor. Remind him to let his doctor know how he's doing. Keep up the other intimate parts of your relationship. Feeling close to each other can include more than sex.


Question: What are side effects and risks of a spinal tap?

Answer: One test for epilepsy is a spinal tap (also called a lumbar puncture). Occasionally, a small blood vessel is pierced, causing bloody discharge. No treatment is needed. The procedure is usually not painful, but momentary twinges of pain may be felt if the needle brushes against nerve tissue. If you have a headache, lie down as much as possible and drink plenty of fluids.


Question: How can a computed tomography (CT) scan diagnose diseases of the digestive system?

Answer: A special camera is used to detect the radioactivity, producing images of organs and areas of the body that can't be seen well with standard X-rays. The actual dose of radiation you receive is quite low and stays in your body only for a short time.


Question: What can I do at home to prevent another heart attack?

Answer: Heart attack survivors are advised to exercise with other people rather than alone during the first months of recovery. Reducing stress may be one of the risk factors that you can control to help prevent a heart attack and aid recovery. Many techniques promote relaxation -- among them, meditation, biofeedback, and yoga. You may find that a particular mind/body technique helps you to focus on positive thoughts. You may also find, as many others have, that sharing thoughts and emotions with a support group is extremely beneficial. Stay in touch with friends and family. Research shows that people with poor social support are more vulnerable to heart disease.


Question: What is preventative mastectomy?

Answer: The surgery aims to remove all breast tissue that potentially could develop breast cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, only those women who are at very high risk of breast cancer should consider preventive mastectomy.


Question: What are my options for breast cancer surgery?

Answer: Some experts have argued that even for high-risk women, prophylactic mastectomy is inappropriate, because not all breast tissue can be removed during a surgical procedure. In a mastectomy, it is necessary to remove tissue from just beneath the skin down to the chest wall and around the borders of the chest. This technique removes the vast majority of the glands where breast cancer may be likely to develop. The nipple and surrounding tissue, called the areola, are removed, because the ducts converge toward the nipple, creating a concentrated area of duct tissue. However, the skin of the breast is spared, preserving the breast skin envelope. When skin-sparing mastectomy is combined with immediate breast reconstruction, the results can be excellent. Many women who choose prophylactic mastectomy, often combined with immediate reconstruction, are very pleased, not only with their choice but also the reconstruction. While surgery is not an approach that should be advocated for all high-risk individuals, it can be very important for some women. It is important that you talk to your doctor to learn about all your options.


Question: Does abnormal blood sugar cause symptoms?

Answer: But if you know their warning signs, you can nip them in the bud or keep them from getting worse. Work with your doctor to keep your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control.


Question: How can regular toilet time help treat constipation in children?

Answer: This means that your child is trying to hold his bowel movements in -- maybe because he's stressed about potty training, maybe because he doesn't want to use the toilet in certain places (like school), or maybe because he's afraid of a painful bathroom experience. Particularly for a younger child, you may get better results by telling, not asking. Instead of suggesting, â Do you need to go to the bathroom?â simply say, â Time to go to the bathroom now.â You'll get the best results if you combine all three of these approaches.


Question: What is immunotherapy for asthma?

Answer: Some people with mild to moderate allergic asthma choose to get allergy shots from a doctor. This is called immunotherapy. Allergy shots contain small amounts of what you're allergic to. When you get the shots over time, your body gets used to having those substances around, and it reacts less to them. Not only can allergy shots improve your asthma symptoms, sometimes they can prevent a flare. Also, the FDA has approved three under-the-tongue tablets that can be taken at home. All 3 have a black box warning about the potential for life-threatening allergic reactions, so they should not be given to patients with severe, unstable, or uncontrolled asthma.


Question: What do you need to know about rheumatoid arthritis joint deformities?

Answer: Joints became deformed. The disease is one of many causes of deformed joints. The good news: RA medications may prevent, slow, or stop the damage that leads to deformed joints. Plus, there are many ways to ease pain and improve how well your joints work if you already have crooked or bent fingers and toes. You're more likely to get deformities if you have high levels of two substances in your blood: C-reactive protein ( CRP) and rheumatoid factor ( RF). Early in the disease, RA tends to attack the small joints of your hands and feet. For damaged fingers, your doctor or a hand therapist can provide splints and exercises. Comfortable shoes can also make it easier to walk with bunions.


Question: What are the types of rheumatoid arthritis joint deformities?

Answer: Early in the disease, RA tends to attack the small joints of your hands and feet. This can lead to several types of deformities, including: Ulnar drift. Also called a buttonhole deformity. Your middle finger joint bends downward (toward your palm), while your top finger joint bends away from the palm. Swan-neck deformity. The base of your big toe (where it attaches to the foot) gets larger and sticks out. This may force your big toe to press against the second toe, forcing it to overlap the third. Describes different types of deformities: Toe bends upward from the ball of your foot Toe bends downward, toward the sole of your shoe, at the middle joint Toe bends downward at the top joint (by the toenail) Yes. Some common types of surgery include: Synovectomy -- removal of the lining of the joint, called the synovium Joint replacement Joint fusion (fusing the bones in the joint together) Bunion surgery


Question: What are some tips to make it more comfortable to walk if you have rheumatoid arthritis joint deformities?

Answer: Ask your doctor about your risk and what you can do to protect your joints. Claw toe. These tips can make it more comfortable to walk: Put a special pad in your shoe to reduce pressure on the ball of your foot. Try shoes that have an extra-deep toe box. Ask a shoe repair shop to stretch the toe box where you need extra room. Comfortable shoes can also make it easier to walk with bunions.


Question: Why is my hearing muffled?

Answer: Most causes of hearing loss don't last long but those that last can be more serious. See your doctor if your hearing doesn't get better in a few days. If you or a family member suspects you've lost some hearing, have it tested.


Question: Is age causing your muffled hearing?

Answer: Age-related hearing loss, also known as presbycusis, is very common among seniors. About 1 in 3 people between 65 and 74 have it. The main reason for the loss is that over time the inner-ear structures that allow us to hear start to wear down. Other causes include: Certain medications: More than 200 medications can cause hearing loss, including certain antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, and high doses of aspirin. Medical conditions: High blood pressure and diabetes can interfere with blood supply to the ear. Noise: Long-term exposure to loud noise can lead to hearing loss. It can happen so slowly that you don't realize your hearing is worse. If you or a family member suspects you've lost some hearing, have it tested. An audiologist can diagnose, treat, and help you manage hearing loss.


Question: What is the link between psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis?

Answer: Your immune system is responsible for both. Inflammation is part of both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Both of these conditions occur because your immune system attacks your own body instead of something foreign to you. A little less than a third of people who have psoriasis will get psoriatic arthritis. Psoriasis skin plaques can flare up and then get better. But psoriatic arthritis can damage joints and leave them stiff and deformed if it isn't treated.


Question: How can you get psoriatic arthritis from psoriasis?

Answer: A little less than a third of people who have psoriasis will get psoriatic arthritis. Doctors can't yet tell who before it happens, though. Usually, you'll have the skin symptoms first. But sometimes, arthritis symptoms appear months, or even years, before skin problems do. That makes it hard to diagnose. People with severe psoriasis could have a greater chance of getting psoriatic arthritis. About 40% of people who get psoriatic arthritis have relatives with it or with psoriasis. Scientists don't know which genes are responsible for these conditions. Figuring that out will help doctors predict who is likely to get these conditions. It may lead to new treatments, too.


Question: How can heart failure cause dizziness, fatigue, and weakness?

Answer: A weak heart pumps less blood to your kidneys and causes fluid and water retention, resulting in swollen ankles, legs, and abdomen (called edema) and weight gain. This can cause a fast or irregular heartbeat.


Question: How can heart failure cause rapid or irregular heartbeats?

Answer: Rapid or irregular heartbeats. Remember, the more fluid you carry in your blood vessels, the harder your heart must work to pump excess fluid through your body.


Question: What are the symptoms of heart failure?

Answer: The symptoms can include: Congested lungs. If you have heart failure, you may have one or all of these symptoms or you may have none of them. Drugs are used to improve your heart's ability to pump blood, decrease stress on your heart, decrease the progression of heart failure, and prevent fluid retention.


Question: Who is a good candidate for a chemical peel?

Answer: Chemical peels can improve the skin's appearance. If you have darker skin, you may also have good results, depending upon the type of problem being treated. After treatment, you may need bandages for several days on part or all of the skin that was treated.


Question: How are chemical peels done?

Answer: But you also may be more likely to have an uneven skin tone after the procedure. Before you get a chemical peel, your doctor may ask you to stop taking certain drugs and prepare your skin by using other medications, such as Retin- A, Renova, or glycolic acid. Work with your doctor to determine the depth of your peel. Ask your doctor in advance whether you will need to have someone drive you home after your peel. During a chemical peel, most people feel a burning sensation that lasts about five to ten minutes, followed by a stinging sensation. Putting cool compresses on the skin may ease that stinging. You may need pain medication during or after a deeper peel.


Question: What should you do before you get a chemical peel?

Answer: This decision depends upon the condition of your skin and your goals for treatment. Ask your doctor in advance whether you will need to have someone drive you home after your peel. Then he or she will apply one or more chemical solutions -- such as glycolic acid, trichloroacetic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, or carbolic acid (phenol) -- to small areas of your skin. For people with a history of herpes outbreaks, there is a small risk of reactivating cold sores. Your doctor can prescribe medication to prevent or treat that.


Question: What should you know about chemical peels and my skin?

Answer: The new skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled than the old skin. They can be used to: Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging Improve the appearance of mild scars Treat certain types of acne Reduce age spots, freckles, and dark patches (melasma) due to pregnancy or taking birth control pills Improve the look and feel of skin Areas of sun damage may improve after chemical peeling. This decision depends upon the condition of your skin and your goals for treatment.


Question: How are chemical peels used?

Answer: Chemical peels can improve the skin's appearance. They can be used to: Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging Improve the appearance of mild scars Treat certain types of acne Reduce age spots, freckles, and dark patches (melasma) due to pregnancy or taking birth control pills Improve the look and feel of skin Areas of sun damage may improve after chemical peeling.


Question: What should you do after a chemical peel?

Answer: They can be used to: Reduce fine lines under the eyes and around the mouth Treat wrinkles caused by sun damage and aging Improve the appearance of mild scars Treat certain types of acne Reduce age spots, freckles, and dark patches (melasma) due to pregnancy or taking birth control pills Improve the look and feel of skin Areas of sun damage may improve after chemical peeling. It should say "broad-spectrum" on the label, meaning it protects against the sun's UVA and UVB rays. Also, it should be a physical sunscreen and be above SPF 30. Some skin types are more likely to develop a temporary or permanent color change in the skin after a chemical peel.


Question: How does fiber help with anal fissures, and what are foods that contain high amounts of fiber?

Answer: If you're constipated, passing large, hard, or dry stools can cause an anal fissure. Getting plenty of fiber in your diet -- especially from fruits and vegetables -- can help prevent constipation, though. Foods that are good sources include: Wheat bran Oat bran Whole grains, including brown rice, oatmeal, popcorn, and whole-grain pastas, cereals, and breads Peas and beans Seeds and nuts Citrus fruits Prunes and prune juice If you can't get enough fiber through your diet, try fiber supplements. If adding fiber to your diet and taking fiber supplements aren't enough to treat constipation, laxatives may help.


Question: How do fiber supplements help prevent anal fissures?

Answer: Getting plenty of fiber in your diet -- especially from fruits and vegetables -- can help prevent constipation, though. Work toward 150 minutes or more per week. They also encourage contractions in the colon to move stools along. Bulk-forming laxatives include calcium polycarbophil, methylcellulose, psyllium, or wheat dextrin. You take them with water. Other types of laxatives can help by: Increasing the amount of water in the intestines Lubricating stools so they can move more easily (mineral oil) Drawing or pulling water into the colon Stimulating the muscles in the intestines to speed up bowel movements Ask your doctor which kind of laxative -- if any -- is right for you, and how long you should take it.


Question: How can chronic pain syndrome (CPS) develop?

Answer: It often starts with an injury or painful condition such as: Arthritis and other joint problems Back pain Headaches Muscle strains and sprains Repetitive stress injuries, when the same movement over and over puts strain on a body part Fibromyalgia, a condition that causes muscle pain throughout the body Nerve damage Lyme disease Broken bones Cancer Acid reflux or ulcers Inflammatory bowel disease ( IBD) Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS) Endometriosis, when tissue in the uterus grows outside of it Surgery The roots of CPS are both physical and mental. Some experts think that people with the condition have a problem with the system of nerves and glands that the body uses to handle stress. That makes them feel pain differently. Other experts say CPS is a learned response. When you're in pain, you may start to repeat certain bad behaviors even after the pain is gone or has lessened. CPS can affect people of all ages and both sexes, but it's most common in women. People with major depression and other mental health conditions are more likely to get CPS. To treat your pain, you can visit: Your primary care doctor A specialist for the medical condition that's causing your pain -- for example, a rheumatologist to treat arthritis A pain clinic or center Your doctor will tailor your therapy to the source of your pain.