Question: Will I stay in the hospital after my pacemaker is implanted?

Answer: Hospital stay: After the pacemaker implant, you will be admitted to the hospital overnight. The nurses will monitor your heart rate and rhythm. You will also have a monitor (a small recorder that is attached to your chest by small electrode patches). It will record your heart rhythm while you are in the hospital. This is another way to check proper pacemaker function. The morning after your implant, you will have a chest X-ray to check your lungs and the position of your pacemaker and leads. Your pacemaker will be checked to make sure it's working properly.


Question: When will someone be able to go home after the pacemaker implant?

Answer: Usually, you will be able to go home the day after your pacemaker is implanted. Your doctor will discuss the results of the procedure and answer any questions you may have. A doctor or nurse will go over specific instructions for your care at home. Please ask a responsible adult to drive you home, as the medications you received may cause drowsiness, making it unsafe for you to drive or operate heavy machinery.


Question: When can someone do normal activities after the pacemaker implant?

Answer: Call your doctor if you notice: Increased drainage or bleeding from the insertion site Increased opening of the incision Redness around the incision site Warmth along the incision Increased body temperature (fever or chills) After your pacemaker is implanted, you may move your arm normally and do not have to restrict its motion during normal daily activities. Avoid extreme pulling or lifting motions (such as placing your arm over your head without bending at the elbow). Activities such as golf, tennis, and swimming should be avoided for six weeks after the pacemaker is implanted. Microwave ovens, electric blankets, and heating pads may be used. Cellular phones should be used on the side opposite your pacemaker. Ask your doctor or nurse for more specific information regarding types of equipment that may interfere with your pacemaker.


Question: What is cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT)?

Answer: Cardiac resynchronization therapy ( CRT), also called biventricular pacing, uses a special kind of pacemaker -- a biventricular pacemaker -- that is designed to help the ventricles contract more normally. It keeps the right and left ventricles pumping together by sending small electrical impulses through the leads. This therapy has been shown to improve the symptoms of heart failure and overall quality of life in certain patients with severe symptoms that aren't controlled with medication.


Question: What happens after the pacemaker check?

Answer: After your pacemaker check, an echocardiogram may be done to help determine if your pacemaker is on the correct settings. The technician nurse will be there during your echo and will change your pacemaker at least three times. The echo will be repeated with each change to evaluate heart function. The pacemaker will keep the settings that demonstrated your best heart function.


Question: How will I know if my pacemaker needs to be changed?

Answer: After getting a pacemaker, you will need to follow-up with the doctor and nurses in a pacemaker clinic and through phone check-ups. This will allow them to monitor your pacemaker's function and anticipate when it will need to be changed. In addition, the pacemaker may be programmed to beep when the battery is low. Your doctor will demonstrate this beep for you. Resynchronization therapy is only one part of a comprehensive heart failure management program. Device and/or surgical therapy, when combined with taking medications, following a low-sodium diet, making lifestyle changes, and following up with a heart failure specialist, will help you decrease symptoms and live a more active life. Your doctor will help determine what treatment options are best for you.


Question: How are the settings determined for your pacemaker?

Answer: After the leads are tested, the doctor will connect them to your pacemaker. Your doctor will determine the rate of your pacemaker and other settings. The final pacemaker settings are done after the implant using a special device called a "programmer."


Question: Why does someone have to stay in the hospital after the pacemaker implant?

Answer: Hospital stay: After the pacemaker implant, you will be admitted to the hospital overnight. The nurses will monitor your heart rate and rhythm. You will also have a monitor (a small recorder that is attached to your chest by small electrode patches). It will record your heart rhythm while you are in the hospital. This is another way to check proper pacemaker function. The morning after your implant, you will have a chest X-ray to check your lungs and the position of your pacemaker and leads. Your pacemaker will be checked to make sure it's working properly. The results of the test will be reported to your doctor.


Question: What will it feel like when the doctor puts in the pacemaker during the endocardial approach?

Answer: You will feel a pinching or burning feeling at first. Then the area will become numb. Once this occurs, an incision will be made to insert the pacemaker and leads. You may feel a pulling as the doctor makes a pocket in the tissue under your skin for the pacemaker. You should not feel pain. If you do, tell your nurse.


Question: What are leads that are implanted in the heart?

Answer: Leads are tiny wires implanted through a vein into the right ventricle and into the coronary sinus vein to pace or regulate the left ventricle. Usually (but not always), a lead is also implanted into the right atrium. This helps the heart beat in a more balanced way.


Question: What are arrhythmias?

Answer: People with heart failure who have poor ejection fractions (measurement that shows how well the heart pumps with each beat) are at risk for fast irregular heart rhythms -- some of which can be life-threatening -- called arrhythmias. Currently, doctors use an ICD to prevent these dangerous rhythms. The device works by detecting such a rhythm and shocking the heart back to normal.


Question: How are pacemakers implanted inside of the heart?

Answer: The tip of the lead attaches to your heart muscle. The other end of the lead is attached to the pulse generator, which is placed under the skin in your upper chest. This technique is done under local anesthesia (you will not be asleep). Outside the heart (epicardial approach): Your chest will be opened and the lead tip is attached to the outside of the heart. The other end of the lead is attached to the pulse generator, which is placed under the skin in your abdomen.


Question: Who is the best candidate for a biventricular pacemaker?

Answer: This therapy has been shown to improve the symptoms of heart failure and overall quality of life in certain patients with severe symptoms that aren't controlled with medication. Therefore, to be eligible for the biventricular pacemaker, heart failure patients must: Have severe or moderately severe heart failure symptoms Be taking medications to treat heart failure Have the type of heart rhythm problems mentioned above (your doctor can usually determine this using ECG testing) In addition, the heart failure patient may or may not need this type of pacemaker to treat slow heart rhythms and may or may not need an internal defibrillator (implantable cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD), which is designed to treat people at risk for sudden cardiac death or cardiac arrests.


Question: How often should someone get their pacemaker checked?

Answer: Because it is very important to keep the area of insertion sterile to prevent infection, your chest will be shaved (if necessary) and cleansed with a special soap. Activities such as golf, tennis, and swimming should be avoided for six weeks after the pacemaker is implanted. The nurse will explain how to check your pacemaker using the telephone transmitter. When the battery gets low, you will need to replace the pacemaker. Here is an outline of the pacemaker follow-up schedule: Check before you are discharged from the hospital, the day after implant Telephone call two weeks after implantation to make sure the wound is healing and to ensure the transmitter is working Six-week check Telephone checks every three to six months starting three months after your six-week check Pacemaker analysis every three to six months (in between telephone checks) Pacemakers usually last four to eight years.


Question: Which fresh produce are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids?

Answer: When shopping, look for omega-3s in: Bread Cereal Flaxseed Flour Pasta Peanut butter Oatmeal Pumpkin seeds Pizza, packaged Flour tortillas Walnuts Vegetables, especially green leafy ones, are good sources of ALA, one form of omega-3 fatty acids. Although ALA isn't as powerful as the other omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA, these vegetables also have fiber and other nutrients, as well as omega-3s. Brussels sprouts Kale Spinach Broccoli Cauliflower Oils can be a good source of ALA omega-3s, too, including: Canola oil Cod liver oil Flaxseed oil Mustard oil Soybean oil Walnut oil Research suggests that the omega-3 fatty acid DHA may help babies' brains develop, which is why you may find them in: Baby cereals Infant formula Jars of baby food You can also find omega-3s in some: Supplements Children and adult vitamins Meal replacement bars Protein powders Weight loss shakes As with most nutrients, whole foods trump any enriched, fortified, or processed foods.


Question: Which grains and nuts are good sources of omega-3 fatty acids?

Answer: Look for seafood rich in omega-3s, such as: Anchovies Halibut Herring Mackerel Oysters Salmon Sardines Trout Tuna (freshor light, canned in water) You'll likely find the following foods fortified with omega-3 fatty acids: Eggs Margarine Milk Juice Soy milk Yogurt Bread and pasta are some of the foodsthat may have omega-3s added to them. These fats are also naturally found in whole foods like seeds and nuts. When shopping, look for omega-3s in: Bread Cereal Flaxseed Flour Pasta Peanut butter Oatmeal Pumpkin seeds Pizza, packaged Flour tortillas Walnuts Vegetables, especially green leafy ones, are good sources of ALA, one form of omega-3 fatty acids.


Question: Which foods are usually fortified with omega-3 fatty acids?

Answer: Look for seafood rich in omega-3s, such as: Anchovies Halibut Herring Mackerel Oysters Salmon Sardines Trout Tuna (freshor light, canned in water) You'll likely find the following foods fortified with omega-3 fatty acids: Eggs Margarine Milk Juice Soy milk Yogurt Bread and pasta are some of the foodsthat may have omega-3s added to them.


Question: Which oils are good sources of ALA omega-3 fatty acids?

Answer: Brussels sprouts Kale Spinach Broccoli Cauliflower Oils can be a good source of ALA omega-3s, too, including: Canola oil Cod liver oil Flaxseed oil Mustard oil Soybean oil Walnut oil Research suggests that the omega-3 fatty acid DHA may help babies' brains develop, which is why you may find them in: Baby cereals Infant formula Jars of baby food You can also find omega-3s in some: Supplements Children and adult vitamins Meal replacement bars Protein powders Weight loss shakes As with most nutrients, whole foods trump any enriched, fortified, or processed foods.


Question: What should you keep in mind when buying food with omega-3 fatty acids?

Answer: Some fortified foods offer 100 mg or more. Getting more than 3 grams a day of omega-3s may make bleeding more likely in people taking antiplatelet drugs, such as aspirin. But you're not likely to get that much from a typical diet. Talk with your doctor before taking high doses of omega-3 supplements.


Question: What other conditions can pose a risk to people with diabetes?

Answer: Not only are people with diabetes at higher risk for heart disease, they're also at higher risk for heart failure, a serious medical condition in which the heart is unable to pump blood adequately. This can lead to fluid build-up in the lungs that causes difficulty breathing, or fluid retention in other parts of the body (especially the legs) that causes swelling.


Question: What are the chances of dying from heart disease for people with diabetes?

Answer: The more health risks factors a person has for heart disease, the higher the chances that they will develop heart disease and even die from it. Just like anyone else, people with diabetes have an increased risk of dying from heart disease if they have more health risk factors.


Question: What is the probability of dying from heart disease for people with diabetes?

Answer: However, the probability of dying from heart disease is 2 to 4 times higher in a person with diabetes. So, while a person with one health risk factor, such as high blood pressure, may have a certain chance of dying from heart disease, a person with diabetes has double or even quadruple the risk of dying.


Question: What causes heart disease in people with diabetes?

Answer: The most common cause of heart disease in a person with diabetes is hardening of thecoronary arteries or atherosclerosis, which is a buildup of cholesterol in the blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrition to the heart.


Question: When should you call 911 about a transient ischemic attack (TIA)?

Answer: Numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or legs -- especially on just one side of the body Slurred or unusual speech Trouble seeing in one or both eyes Trouble walking, dizziness, or balance problems Sudden confusion Severe headache Tell emergency personnel the exact time when you first noticed symptoms.


Question: How can my tooth enamel lead to sensitive teeth?

Answer: That's a hard, protective layer that helps your teeth deal with everything you put them through. When it's gone, nerve endings that cause pain are exposed. If you have sensitive teeth, it's possible some of your enamel has worn away.


Question: How does a controlled food challenge help food allergies?

Answer: Sometimes that's enough to pinpoint the problem food, or he may suggest some tests. Your doctor will take a sample of your blood and expose it to different allergens. That way, you don't have to be exposed to what may be the cause. To confirm a skin or blood test, or to see if a child has outgrown an allergy. It can be used to eliminate a specific food from the list, too. For this test, you'll go to your doctors' office or a hospital. Never try this type of test on your own, because it can cause a serious reaction.


Question: How will I be tested for food allergies?

Answer: First, he'll puts a small drop of liquid containing the food on your skin, and pricks it. Then he'll watch for a reaction -- a small bump that may get red like a mosquito bite. If your skin reacts, you're probably allergic to that food. Your doctor can talk with you about other treatment options. If you don't react, you're probably not allergic to it. This test is usually sent to a lab, and results could take a week or more. Your doctor will give you food samples and watch for a reaction.


Question: How can blood tests help identify food allergies?

Answer: You won't learn the results right away. This test is usually sent to a lab, and results could take a week or more. Doctors don't use it as often. They may use it if they have an idea of what you're allergic to. That way, you don't have to be exposed to what may be the cause. Neither skin nor blood tests can accurately predict how severe a food allergy reaction may be. Your doctor will give you food samples and watch for a reaction.


Question: How can I know if I'm allergic to a food?

Answer: First, he'll ask you questions about what you think you're allergic to and your symptoms. Sometimes that's enough to pinpoint the problem food, or he may suggest some tests. Allergy testing can help your doctor find out what you're allergic to, but it's not foolproof. After your tests are done, you'll need to work with him to get the right diagnosis. To confirm a skin or blood test, or to see if a child has outgrown an allergy.


Question: How often should you bathe your baby?

Answer: Until your baby's umbilical cord falls off, which usually happens after the first week, don't give any baths. Circumcised boys should not be bathed until the penis has totally healed. Your baby doesn't need a bath every day -- two to three times a week should be fine.


Question: How often should you cut your baby's nails?

Answer: Because your baby's fingernails grow very quickly and babies can easily scratch themselves, file or cut the nails about twice a week. Your baby's toenails don't grow as quickly. You can probably get away with cutting them a couple of times a month. Just watch out for any jagged edges that you may need to trim. Never bite off your baby's nails -- you could give her an infection.


Question: Can you burn off cholesterol?

Answer: However, unlike fat, cholesterol can't be exercised off, sweated out, or burned for energy. Just as homemade oil-and-vinegar dressing separates into a watery pool with a fat-slick topping, so also would fats and cholesterol if they were dumped directly into the blood.


Question: What are hydrogenated fats?

Answer: Coconut, palm, and palm kernel oils are exceptions to the rule; these liquid vegetable oils are highly saturated fats. This process also rearranges the molecular shape of the remaining unsaturated fats. The resulting shape is an abnormal "trans" shape.


Question: Which fats are saturated?

Answer: Less than 10 percent of your daily calories should come from saturated fats. In general, the harder a fat, the more saturated it is. Beef and dairy fats are mostly saturated fats. Liquid oils are usually unsaturated fats, including monounsaturated fats in olive and canola oils and polyunsaturated fats in safflower, corn, soybean, and fish oils. Coconut, palm, and palm kernel oils are exceptions to the rule; these liquid vegetable oils are highly saturated fats. Trans fatty acids raise blood cholesterol levels and increase heart disease risk even more than saturated fats.


Question: What are calcium channel blockers?

Answer: Calcium channel blockers are typically used to treat high blood pressure or heart problems. Some have also been studied experimentally to treat mania or depression in bipolar disorder. Thus far, there is still uncertainty about whether or not they are effective for treating bipolar disorder.


Question: What conditions cause symptoms like ulcerative colitis?

Answer: Other gut problems can give you diarrhea and crampy belly pain, like: Crohn's disease, which causes pain and swelling in other places in your gut, not just your colon Irritable bowel syndrome An infection The only way to know why you have symptoms is to see your doctor and get tested.


Question: Why do I feel tired with ulcerative colitis?

Answer: Diarrhea and swelling in your colon make it hard for your body to absorb what it needs for energy. Bleeding in your colon leaves you with too few red blood cells, or anemia. You don't get enough sleep because you get up often at night to go to the bathroom. You're dehydrated because of diarrhea. Diarrhea, loss of appetite, and not being able to absorb calories from your food can make you lose weight.


Question: How does ulcerative colitis lead to weight loss?

Answer: Diarrhea, loss of appetite, and not being able to absorb calories from your food can make you lose weight.


Question: What is Lyrica?

Answer: Lyrica (pregabalin) is an FDA-approved drug treatment for fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder that causes long-term, widespread muscle pain and tenderness, trouble sleeping, and overwhelming tiredness. Lyrica is not an antidepressant. Rather, it is a drug that targets nerve signals. The medicine has long been used to relieve nerve pain in patients with shingles and diabetic neuropathy. It is also used to treat partial seizures.


Question: What are severe allergic reactions to Lyrica when treating fibromyalgia?

Answer: In rare cases, severe allergic reactions occur. Seek immediate medical help if you have: Breathing trouble Hives Swelling of the face, mouth, gums, lips, tongue, or neck Always make sure your doctor knows about all the other medications you are taking.


Question: What are the most common side effects of taking Lyrica to treat fibromyalgia?

Answer: Side effects appear related to how much Lyrica you take. That means the higher your dose of Lyrica, the more likely you may be to have side effects.


Question: How do you take Lyrica as treatment for fibromyalgia?

Answer: Lyrica (pregabalin) is an FDA-approved drug treatment for fibromyalgia. When used for fibromyalgia, Lyrica is a capsule that is usually taken in divided doses twice a day. Your doctor will determine the best dose for you. If you miss taking one capsule, you should take it as soon as possible -- unless it is close to the time when you are supposed to take the next one. Never take two or more at the same time.


Question: Can I drink alcohol if I take Lyrica to treat fibromyalgia?

Answer: Lyrica is not an antidepressant. Doing so can give you a headache, upset stomach, diarrhea, and sleeping difficulties.


Question: What prescription medicines may interact with Lyrica when treating fibromyalgia?

Answer: Some prescription medicines may interact with Lyrica and may lead to dangerous side effects. Such drugs include: Blood pressure medicines called ACE inhibitors; taking Lyrica with these medicines increases your chance for swelling and hives. Combining the two can be dangerous.


Question: Does ADHD continue into adulthood?

Answer: ADHD begins in childhood and often lasts into adulthood. As many as 2 out of every 3 children with ADHD continue to have symptoms as adults.


Question: What signs of ADHD might a child show?

Answer: Children with ADHD often have trouble functioning at home and in school and can have difficulty making and keeping friends. If left untreated, ADHD may interfere with school and work, as well as with social and emotional development.


Question: How common is ADHD?

Answer: No one knows for sure whether ADHD is more common today, but it is very clear that the number of children getting diagnosed and treated for ADHD has risen over time. Some of this increase in diagnosis and treatment is due to greater awareness of the symptoms and an expansion of what is considered ADHD. Some experts feel that ADHD is over diagnosed, while others feel it is under diagnosed or under treated.


Question: Is ADHD more common in boys or girls?

Answer: ADHD is more common in boys, whose impulsivity and hyperactivity may appear as disruptive behavior. Inattentiveness is a hallmark of ADHD in girls, but because they aren't often disruptive in the classroom, they may be harder to diagnose.


Question: How hereditary is ADHD?

Answer: When one person is diagnosed with ADHD, there is a 25%-35% chance that another family member will also have the condition, compared to 4%-6% of the general public.


Question: What can happen if ADHD is left untreated?

Answer: Children with ADHD often have trouble functioning at home and in school and can have difficulty making and keeping friends. If left untreated, ADHD may interfere with school and work, as well as with social and emotional development.


Question: What are the different symptoms and types of ADHD?

Answer: Each one is identified by the symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. When the main symptoms are inattention, distraction, and disorganization, the type is usually called primarily inattentive. The symptoms of hyperactivity and possibly impulsiveness appear to diminish with age but are seen in the primarily hyperactive/impulsive type. The third type has some symptoms from each of the other two and is called the combined type. When one person is diagnosed with ADHD, there is a 25%-35% chance that another family member will also have the condition, compared to 4%-6% of the general public.


Question: Is ADHD more common in girls or boys?

Answer: Each one is identified by the symptoms of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention. Inattentiveness is a hallmark of ADHD in girls, but because they aren't often disruptive in the classroom, they may be harder to diagnose.


Question: Should I go to work if I have a cough?

Answer: If you've got a tickle in the back of your throat or it feels like mucus is dripping into that area from your nose, your cough is probably from allergies or a cold. But unless you've got other symptoms like aches or fever, get dressed and go to work! If you've been sick for a few days and you now cough up darker yellow mucus, it's still probably just a cold. But if it goes on this way for more than a week, it's a good idea to see your doctor.


Question: Should I go to work if I have the sniffles?

Answer: Take stock of your symptoms and see if they meet this commonsense standard for calling in sick: If you've the sniffles, but you're not achy or feverish and feel fine otherwise, you probably have allergies. It's OK to go to work. You can turn to several over-the-counter medicines to treat mild allergies. But keep in mind that some medications, such as diphenhydramine or chlorpheniramine, can make you sleepy. Drugs with less of this side effect include loratidine and cetirizine.


Question: Can I go to work if I have a headache?

Answer: If you wake up with a headache, it may be a cold or flu, especially if you have other symptoms such as sneezing, stuffy nose, and body aches. You may need to stay home a day or two while you're most contagious and feel the worst. If you have a headache and can't handle noise or light, you may have a migraine and shouldn't be at work. If this is something that happens to you again and again, see a doctor. There are medications that can help.


Question: Can I go to work if I have a sinus infection?

Answer: Or you've got a doozy of a headache. It's OK to go to work. The next day, you'll probably be able to go to work, since it usually isn't contagious. If you're very sick or your symptoms get worse after a week, call your doctor.


Question: Should I go to work if I have the chills and sweats?

Answer: If your clothes are getting drenched, you most likely have a fever. Make sure you drink plenty of liquids. Consider seeing your doctor, especially if your temperature is over 102 degrees F. That could be a sign that you have an infection, such as the flu. For in-depth information, see Sore Throat: Cold, Strep Throat, or Tonsillitis? You may need to stay home a day or two while you're most contagious and feel the worst. Call your doctor to see if you need to get it treated with an antibiotic.


Question: What should I do if antihistamines aren't helping my allergies?

Answer: He can do tests to find out what's triggering the problem. He may recommend allergy shots to reduce your symptoms. Call your doctor to see if you need to get it treated with an antibiotic.


Question: Can I go to work with pinkeye?

Answer: It's OK to go to work. If you've got a tickle in the back of your throat or it feels like mucus is dripping into that area from your nose, your cough is probably from allergies or a cold. Call your doctor to see if you need to get it treated with an antibiotic. Make sure you wash your hands often so you don't infect anyone else.


Question: What rheumatoid arthritis (RA) drugs protect you against diabetes?

Answer: They include: TNF inhibitors: These drugs block an inflammation-causing substance called TNF. TNF may play a role in the onset of diabetes. It's been shown to lower diabetes risk in people with RA by about 33%. According to research, abatacept reduces the risk of diabetes by about 50%.


Question: How can I reduce my risk of getting diabetes if I have rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Keep the disease under control. If you're overweight, losing as little as 7% of your body weight reduces your risk of diabetes. Be active. Eat a healthy diet.


Question: What can doctors prescribe to ease and prevent eczema flare-ups?

Answer: Your doctor can prescribe a steroid cream to stop the itch and clear your rash, or topical creams called calcineurin inhibitors like pimecolimus ( Elidel) or tacrolimus ( Protopic) that protect your skin and prevent eczema outbreaks. Hydrocortisone cream is available over the counter ( OTC) and eases mild itching. Eucrisa ointment is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory topical treatment that may help reduce redness and itchiness in mild to moderate atopic dermatitis.


Question: How can someone with eczema prevent flares to feel better?

Answer: There are many things that could set off an eczema flare. You may not have the same triggers as someone else. It pays to figure out what causes your skin to react. Dry skin. If your skin gets too dry, it can become rough and itchy. It might even crack. That can let bacteria or allergens inside. Dry skin is a common eczema trigger for many people. Extreme changes in temperature can stress your skin, too. Tips: Keep your skin moist -- especially in winter, when the air can be very dry. Use a humidifier to moisten the air in your bedroom when you sleep. Apply body lotion after you get out of a shower or bath. Soak in a warm bath with small amounts of bath oil, or colloidal oatmeal added to ease eczema itching and moisten your skin.


Question: What are some irritants that could trigger eczema rashes?

Answer: Products you use every day may bother your skin. Soap, cleansers, body wash, laundry detergent, lotions, or even some foods you touch can trigger eczema rashes. Tips: Talk to your doctor to pinpoint what may irritate your skin. She can test how your skin reacts to certain products. Keep track of anything you use that seems to trigger a flare after you touch it. Choose soaps, cleansers, or laundry detergent without added perfumes or dyes. These are common eczema triggers.


Question: How do people with eczema feel after having flare-ups?

Answer: Keep track of anything you use that seems to trigger a flare after you touch it. Get help if you can't keep your stress under control.


Question: How can stress and anxiety make eczema flare up?

Answer: A weak or haywire immune system can cause a flare-up. Plus itchy, sore skin can also stress you out. It can be an endless cycle if you don't break it. Tips: Find ways to relax in times of stress. Make sure you get enough sleep at night so you feel refreshed the next day. Aromatherapy, massage therapy, and soaks in a warm bath may help you ease tension. Get help if you can't keep your stress under control.


Question: What should someone do if they have strong eczema itching?

Answer: It may go away for a while, then flare up again. Light therapy from the sun or with a UV-ray device at your doctor's office may ease outbreaks, too. For strong eczema itching that even keeps you up at night, try oral antihistamines. Diphenhydramine can stop itching and help you sleep. Fexofenadine, cetirizine, and other antihistamines can ease flares and itching but don't make you drowsy. They're all available OTC. Your doctor may also prescribe oral corticosteroids or give you a steroid shot for a strong eczema flare. If you scratch your itchy rash and break the skin, you might need antibiotics to prevent an infection.


Question: What else can cause eczema?

Answer: Tips: Keep your skin moist -- especially in winter, when the air can be very dry. Maybe cigarette smoke or a dusty house are to blame. Tips: Keep your home or office area clean. Dust often. Don't smoke or hang out with people who do. If you think you're allergic to pet hair or dander, talk to your doctor or see an allergist, a doctor who specializes in treating allergies.


Question: What types of clothing could trigger eczema?

Answer: If your skin gets too dry, it can become rough and itchy. Clothes that are too warm or heavy can make you sweat and cause a flare, too. Tips: Opt for soft clothes that are gentle on your skin and keep it cool. If wool or other fabrics seem to bother you, don't wear them. Find wool-free garments to keep you warm in winter. Wear loose items that don't rub against your skin.


Question: Why does someone get eczema?

Answer: A weak or haywire immune system can cause a flare-up. Healthy, supple skin protects you. If yours gets too dry, it may not be able to block out tiny bacteria or allergens that cause eczema. Some people are more likely to get eczema than others. This includes African- Americans, people who work in health care or childcare, and those who live in cold climates or cities with lots of air pollution. Eczema is common in babies and kids. You may just call it sensitive skin. You might grow out of it or you could have it on and off for life. It pays to figure out what causes your skin to react. These are common eczema triggers.


Question: How does a doctor diagnose and treat eczema?

Answer: Your doctor can tell if you have eczema based on your symptoms, medical and family history, and what seems to trigger your outbreaks. You may need to see a dermatologist -- a doctor who specializes in skin conditions. There's no test to prove that you have eczema. Your symptoms, age, family history, other health problems, and lifestyle help you find treatments that work. Most eczema treatments give you short-term relief. Work with your doctor to treat your eczema.


Question: How is moderate to severe eczema treated?

Answer: Eucrisa ointment is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory topical treatment that may help reduce redness and itchiness in mild to moderate atopic dermatitis. This medicine is given every two weeks as an injection under the skin. Work with your doctor to treat your eczema. Some drugs or remedies for eczema, like steroids, can cause side effects if you use them too long or too often.


Question: How can targeted therapy help with breast cancer?

Answer: Targeted therapy, also called biologic therapy, uses the body's immune system or hormonal system to fight breast cancer cells. That does less harm to healthy cells, so the side effects aren't usually as bad as from better-known treatments like chemotherapy. One type of targeted therapy uses antibodies to kill cancer cells or block them from growing. Antibodies are a part of the immune system made by special white blood cells. They can be made in a lab and given as medicine. Another type of this therapy uses drugs made of small molecules that block signals the cancer cells need to grow. The type of targeted therapy your doctor might recommend depends on the type of breast cancer you have.


Question: When should you call your doctor if you have breast cancer?

Answer: New mouth sores or patches, a swollen tongue, or bleeding gums A dry, burning, scratchy, or "swollen" throat A cough that is new or persistent Feeling the need to pee more often, stronger urges than usual, a burning feeling while peeing, or blood in your urine Heartburn, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea that lasts longer than 2 or 3 days Blood in your stools Shortness of breath Swelling in feet or ankles Severe tiredness or fatigue


Question: What are signal transduction inhibitors for breast cancer?

Answer: These antibodies block signals inside the cancer cell that help the cells divide, stopping the cancer from growing.


Question: How can lapatinib (Tykerb) help with treating HER2-positive breast cancer?

Answer: Lapatinib ( Tykerb) is an example of a small-molecule drug that you can take in a pill. Together with chemotherapy, it treats some advanced cases of HER2-positive breast cancer. Doctors often use it when other cancer medications haven't worked for someone.


Question: When should you call your doctor about side effects from breast cancer treatment?

Answer: Call your nurse or doctor if you have: A temperature over 100.4 F. If you have any fever and chills, tell your doctor immediately. If you can't reach your doctor, go to the emergency room. New mouth sores or patches, a swollen tongue, or bleeding gums A dry, burning, scratchy, or "swollen" throat A cough that is new or persistent Feeling the need to pee more often, stronger urges than usual, a burning feeling while peeing, or blood in your urine Heartburn, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea that lasts longer than 2 or 3 days Blood in your stools Shortness of breath Swelling in feet or ankles Severe tiredness or fatigue


Question: What is HER2-negative breast cancer?

Answer: A gene called HER2 makes too many copies of itself in about 20% of people with breast cancer. If you have that faulty version of the gene, your disease is called " HER2-positive." You'll need different treatments.


Question: What medications can help treat HER2 positive breast cancer?

Answer: A gene called HER2 makes too many copies of itself in about 20% of people with breast cancer. Trastuzumab ( Herceptin) is the standard treatment for this type of breast cancer. Trastuzumab treats this type of breast cancer either alone or alone with chemotherapy drugs. Pertuzumab ( Perjeta) is another antibody that treats HER2-positive breast cancer. Pertuzumab may be harmful to a fetus, so women who are pregnant shouldn't take it. Another medication, ado-trastuzumab emtansine ( Kadcyla), combines the antibody in trastuzumab with a chemotherapy drug. Doctors give it to people with HER2-positive, advanced breast cancer who were already treated with trastuzumab. Lapatinib ( Tykerb) is an example of a small-molecule drug that you can take in a pill. Together with chemotherapy, it treats some advanced cases of HER2-positive breast cancer.


Question: What is alpha lipoic acid (ALA)?

Answer: ALA is an antioxidant. Antioxidants protect against damage to the body's cells. There are food sources of ALA such as yeast, organ meats like liver and heart, spinach, broccoli, and potatoes. However, ALA from food does not appear to produce a noticeable increase in the level of free ALA in the body. Some people take ALA supplements with the intent to improve a variety of health conditions. Scientific evidence for the health benefit of supplemental ALA has been inconclusive. Studies show that about 30% to 40% of the oral dose of an ALA supplement is absorbed. ALA may be better absorbed if it is taken on an empty stomach.


Question: What other conditions can alpha lipoic acid (ALA) help with?

Answer: ALA has been suggested as a potential aid in stopping or slowing the damage done by a variety of other health conditions from HIV to liver disease. However, much of the research is still early and evidence isn't conclusive. There has also been recent interest in supplemental ALA for weight loss. But again, there is no evidence that ALA has any effect on weight loss in humans, and more research needs to be done.


Question: What should you know about alpha lipoic acid (ALA)?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Alpha-lipoic acid or ALA is a naturally occurring compound that's made in the body. It serves vital functions at the cellular level, such as energy production. As long as you're healthy, the body can produce all the ALA it needs for these purposes. Despite that fact, there has been a lot of recent interest in using ALA supplements. Advocates of ALA make claims that range from beneficial effects for treating conditions such as diabetes and HIV to enhancing weight loss. Research on the effects of ALA supplementation is sparse. What there is, though, does suggest some possible benefits.


Question: What are the side effects and precautions for alpha lipoic acid (ALA)?

Answer: Advocates of ALA make claims that range from beneficial effects for treating conditions such as diabetes and HIV to enhancing weight loss. However, little is known about the possible effect of long-term use of ALA supplements. And there are no dosage recommendations and little data on the potential effect of large doses taken over time. ALA should not be used without a recommendation from your doctor if you take insulin or other medications to lower blood sugar. It's possible that it can enhance the effect of these drugs, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Discuss the use of supplemental ALA with your doctor first. Your doctor may recommend that you increase monitoring of blood sugar levels. The doctor may also want to make an adjustment in your medication. Because no studies have been done on the effect of using ALA during pregnancy, you should not use it if pregnant. Also, there are no data about its use by children, so children should not take ALA supplements.


Question: What can I do to have a strong immune system?

Answer: The classic things that keep your heart, brain, bones, and the rest of you well are also good for your immune system: Eat nutritious foods. Stay active. Work to keep your weight healthy. Don't smoke. If you drink alcohol, keep it moderate (no more than one drink a day if you're a woman, and two drinks daily if you're a man).


Question: What does your immune system do?

Answer: Your immune system works to root out germs and other invaders that have no business in your body. For example, if you inhale a cold virus through your nose, your immune system targets that virus and either stops it in its tracks or primes you to recover. It takes time to get over an infection, and sometimes you need medicine to help, but the process is the cornerstone of prevention and recovery.


Question: What does my immune system consist of?

Answer: Other than your nervous system, your immune system is the most complex system in your body. It's made up of tissues, cells, and organs, including: Your tonsils Your digestive system Your bone marrow Your skin Your lymph nodes Your spleen Thin skin on the inside of your nose, throat, and genitals All of these help create or store cells that work around the clock to keep your whole body healthy.


Question: How does my immune system react to stress?

Answer: When you're wound up, your immune system doesn't work as well as it does when you're confident and mellow about your challenges. That may make you more likely to get sick.


Question: How does your immune system grow stronger?

Answer: You're born with a certain level of protection, or âimmunity.â But it can get better. Think of a baby or young child who comes down with colds, earaches, or other everyday illnesses often. Their immune system is creating a "bank" of antibodies as they are exposed to illnesses for the first time, enabling them to fight off future invaders. Vaccines work in much the same way. They turn on your immune system by introducing your body to a tiny amount of a virus (usually a killed or weakened one). Your body makes antibodies in response that protects against threats like measles, whooping cough, flu, or meningitis. Then, when you come in contact with that virus in your everyday life, your immune system kicks in so that you don't get sick.


Question: Can your immune system work against you?

Answer: You've heard of your immune system. It's made up of tissues, cells, and organs, including: Your tonsils Your digestive system Your bone marrow Your skin Your lymph nodes Your spleen Thin skin on the inside of your nose, throat, and genitals All of these help create or store cells that work around the clock to keep your whole body healthy. They turn on your immune system by introducing your body to a tiny amount of a virus (usually a killed or weakened one). Your immune system can become less effective as you get older. It can also make you more likely to get an autoimmune disease, like rheumatoid arthritis, or even some kinds of cancer.


Question: What are the risks of drinking alcohol to help with cholesterol?

Answer: Drinking too much alcohol can actually increase your risk for heart disease and stroke, raise blood pressure, contribute to obesity, and increase the levels of fats called triglycerides in the blood. Excessive drinking also can lead to heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy), irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), and stroke. Eventually, heavy alcohol use can leave the heart too weak to pump efficiently, a condition called congestive heart failure. Because drinking alcohol also has other downsides, including increased risk of some cancers, cirrhosis of the liver, and an increased risk of accidents, the American Heart Association does not recommend that you start drinking wine or any other alcoholic beverages specifically to lower your cholesterol or improve your heart health. Instead, the organization advises watching your weight, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly to keep your cholesterol levels in check. If you do plan to drink, check with your doctor first, and drink in moderation -- (one glass of wine or beer a day for women, two for men). Some people, especially pregnant women, and those who take certain medicines regularly, should avoid alcohol entirely.


Question: How many men get osteoporosis?

Answer: But men still make up 20% of all cases. That means about 2 million men in the United States have osteoporosis right now. More than 43 million men and women have osteopenia, a condition where your bones thin. It can lead to osteoporosis if not properly treated.


Question: How can I get calcium and vitamin D to help with osteoporosis?

Answer: Without calcium and vitamin D the drugs can't do their job. Whether you get them as a part of your regular diet or through supplements, these essential nutrients are key. If you still aren't getting enough calcium and vitamin D, then ask your doctor about supplements. If your doctor says you have osteopenia, treat it as a warning sign -- a chance to practice good bone health by eating a calcium-rich diet, taking supplements if needed, and getting regular exercise.


Question: What are ways syphilis cannot be spread?

Answer: Syphilis cannot be spread by toilet seats, door knobs, swimming pools, hot tubs, bath tubs, shared clothing, or eating utensils.


Question: What is the tertiary stage of syphilis?

Answer: If the infection isn't treated, it may then progress to a stage characterized by severe problems with the heart, brain, and nerves that can result in paralysis, blindness, dementia, deafness, impotence, and even death if it's not treated.


Question: Can pregnant women transfer syphilis to their baby?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Pregnant women with the disease can spread it to their baby. This disease, called congenital syphilis, can cause abnormalities or even death to the child.


Question: How is syphilis diagnosed?

Answer: Syphilis was once a major public health threat, commonly causing serious long-term health problems such as arthritis, brain damage, and blindness.


Question: What are signs of early or primary syphilis?

Answer: People with primary syphilis will develop one or more sores. The sores are usually small painless ulcers. They occur on the genitals or in or around the mouth somewhere between 10-90 days (average three weeks) after exposure.


Question: What causes syphilis?

Answer: Syphilis is caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum.


Question: How is syphilis treated?

Answer: For those allergic to penicillin, tetracycline, doxycycline or another antibiotic can be given instead. If you are in a later stage of disease, more doses will be needed. To reduce your risk of syphilis infection: Avoid intimate contact with a person you know is infected.


Question: What are symptoms of drug allergy?

Answer: You may have some or all of these symptoms: Hives -- itchy, bumpy, irregular patches on the skin Rash Itchy skin Swollen face, lips, or tongue Wheezing Most drug allergy symptoms start right after you take the drug, but some may take hours, days or weeks to appear.


Question: What are symptoms of anaphylaxis?

Answer: Anaphylaxis is an emergency and is life-threatening. Symptoms include: Trouble breathing or throat feels like its closing Confusion Cramping Dizziness or fainting Hives covering much of the body Irregular heartbeat Shock or unconsciousness If you have any of these symptoms, call 911. Use an epinephrine shot if you have one, and take antihistamines to help slow down the reaction. Even if the reaction goes away, you still need to go to the hospital.


Question: What are the symptoms of lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) lung disease?

Answer: Most people with LAM lung disease experience shortness of breath. Other symptoms include wheezing and cough, which may be bloody. Often, people with LAM develop a sudden pneumothorax (collapsed lung). This occurs when one of the cysts near the lung's edge ruptures, allowing inhaled air to compress the lung.


Question: How can an MRI help diagnose Paget's disease?

Answer: MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): Powerful magnets and radio waves are used to make detailed images of your bones.


Question: How is Paget's disease treated?

Answer: There's no way to fix the changes that have already happened, such as hearing loss or deformed bones, but you can get help with the issues caused by Paget's. Options include: Physical help, like wedges in your shoe, a cane for walking, physical therapy, and other ways to build muscle that can help control pain Medicines like bisphosphonates to prevent bone loss or calcitonin to control calcium level Medicine to help with the pain (acetaminophen like Tylenol or NSAIDs like ibuprofen or Advil) Your doctor may suggest surgery to fix a broken or deformed bone, replace a hip or knee, or treat severe arthritis. Ask your doctor about ways to keep your bones healthy.


Question: How can a bone scan help diagnose Paget's disease?

Answer: This will be done with an X-ray or one of the following: Bone scan: A small amount of a radioactive substance, called a tracer, is put into a vein in your arm. It goes through your bloodstream and into your bones. A special camera takes pictures of your bones and any areas that absorb too much or too little of the tracer can be a sign of a problem with the bone.


Question: How can a CT exam help diagnose Paget's disease?

Answer: CT (computerized tomography) scan: Several X-rays are taken from different angles and put together to make a more complete picture of your bones.


Question: What is Paget's disease?

Answer: But with Paget's disease, this happens too fast and gives your bones an odd shape. They may be bent, weak, brittle, soft, or too big. The new bones also may not fit together as tightly as they should.


Question: How is Paget's disease diagnosed?

Answer: It may cause your bones to break and can lead to other health problems. It can be confused with arthritis, osteoporosis, spinal stenosis, or other changes that come with age. Some people only find out they have it because of an X-ray or blood test taken for a different reason. To see if you have Paget's disease of bone, your doctor will examine you and ask questions about your family history. He'll want pictures taken of your bones, because a bone with Paget's will look larger and thicker than usual. It can look like it didn't grow right.


Question: Which tests may diagnose Paget's disease?

Answer: To see if you have Paget's disease of bone, your doctor will examine you and ask questions about your family history. People who have Paget's often have more of this enzyme than normal, which reflects the bone turnover that is common in Paget's.


Question: Can chronic pain be treated with nonprescription drugs?

Answer: Milder forms of pain may be relieved by over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Both acetaminophen and NSAIDs relieve pain caused by muscle aches and stiffness, and additionally NSAIDs reduce inflammation (swelling and irritation). Topical pain relievers are also available, such as creams, lotions, or sprays that are applied to the skin in order to relieve pain and inflammation from sore muscles and arthritis.


Question: What is bioelectric therapy?

Answer: Bioelectric therapy relieves pain by blocking pain messages to the brain. Bioelectric therapy also prompts the body to produce chemicals called endorphins that decrease or eliminate painful sensations by blocking the message of pain from being delivered to the brain.


Question: How is patient-controlled analgesia used to manage chronic pain?

Answer: Patient-controlled analgesia ( PCA) is another method of pain control. By pushing a button on a computerized pump, the patient is able to self-administer a premeasured dose of pain medicine. The pump is connected to a small tube that allows medicine to be injected intravenously (into a vein), subcutaneously (just under the skin), or into the spinal area. This is often used in the hospital to treat pain.


Question: How can acupuncture help chronic pain?

Answer: Acupuncture is thought to decrease pain by increasing the release of endorphins, chemicals that block pain. Many acu-points are near nerves. When stimulated, these nerves cause a dull ache or feeling of fullness in the muscle. The stimulated muscle sends a message to the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), causing the release of endorphins that block the message of pain from being delivered to the brain.


Question: How can herbal remedies help chronic pain?

Answer: It has been difficult to draw conclusions about the effectiveness of herbs, though there are a few, such as white willow bark, devil's claw, cat's claw, ginger, and turmeric, that have some evidence supporting their use. If you decide to use herbal preparations to better manage your pain, tell your doctor: Some herbs may interact with drugs you are receiving for pain or other conditions and may harm your health. As mentioned, some herbal therapies can interact with other medications you may be taking.


Question: What are the two types of surgical implants that help chronic pain?

Answer: When they are used, which is rare, there are two main types of implants to control pain: Intrathecal Drug Delivery. Also called infusion pain pumps or spinal drug delivery systems. In spinal cord stimulation, low-level electrical signals are transmitted to the spinal cord or to specific nerves to block pain signals from reaching the brain. Two kinds of spinal cord stimulation systems are available.


Question: What are dietary approaches to help treat chronic pain?

Answer: Some people believe that changing dietary fat intake and/or eating plant foods that contain anti-inflammatory agents can help ease pain by limiting inflammation. Weight loss achieved by a combination of dietary changes and increased physical activity has been shown to be helpful for people suffering from osteoarthritis. Still, further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of dietary modifications as a pain treatment.


Question: What happens during a generalized seizure?

Answer: Sometimes these are referred to as grand mal seizures. The person experiencing such a seizure may cry out or make some sound, stiffen for several seconds to a minute and then have rhythmic movements of the arms and legs. Often the rhythmic movements slow before stopping. Eyes are generally open. The person may appear to not be breathing and actually turn blue. This may be followed by a period of deep, noisy breathes. The return to consciousness is gradual and the person may be confused for quite some time -- minutes to hours.


Question: What are symptoms of an anal fissure?

Answer: Symptoms include: A visible tear in your anus Pain during, and even after, bowel movements Small amounts of blood on the surface of stools and toilet paper Burning and itching around the anus Smelly discharge You can easily mistake these symptoms as signs of other conditions, such as hemorrhoids.


Question: What questions should I ask my doctor about anal fissures?

Answer: Once your doctor diagnoses an anal fissure, ask her these important questions: Can I expect this fissure to heal on its own? How can I treat an anal fissure at home? Do I need medication? Do I need to make changes to my diet? How long should it take for the fissure to heal? Am I likely to get more anal fissures? Will I need surgery? What are the risks of surgery?


Question: How do doctors diagnose anal fissures?

Answer: In most cases, discussing your symptoms can give your doctor enough information to diagnose an anal fissure. If you've had any of the symptoms, be sure to tell her: When you have pain, burning, or itching How bad your discomfort is How long the pain and discomfort usually lasts What type of bleeding you've seen What, if anything, improves your symptoms Your doctor may ask you about your diet, bowel habits, and if you have any other medical conditions or intestinal problems.


Question: Will I need a rectal exam to diagnose an anal fissure?

Answer: An anal fissure is a tear in the lining of your anus or anal canal. Your doctor may look at the area for a fissure.


Question: Can coronary heart disease cause heart failure in women?

Answer: Fat-clogged arteries are less likely to be a main cause for heart failure in women than in men. At the same time, women are more likely to have heart failure, a stroke, or die within 5 years after a heart attack than men.


Question: Is high blood pressure a risk for heart failure in women?

Answer: You typically get heart failure because of a health issue that weakens, damages, or stiffens your heart. That includes heart attacks, faulty heart valves, and infections. But the causes of heart failure in women and men can vary: High blood pressure . This doubles or triples your chance of getting heart failure. But high blood pressure is much more common in women who have heart failure than in men.


Question: Are women more likely than men to get heart failure?

Answer: As with other types of heart problems, women and men can get heart failure for different reasons, and it can affect them differently. Fat-clogged arteries are less likely to be a main cause for heart failure in women than in men. Women who get heart failure sometimes respond differently to treatments than men, and the condition can affect them differently: Women tend to get heart failure at an older age.


Question: Can pregnancy cause heart failure in women?

Answer: About 3 million women in the U. S. have it. If they do, they're likely to have it again with future pregnancies, especially if they're over 35, African- American, or have pregnancy-related diabetes.


Question: What medications and therapies might work better for heart failure in women?

Answer: As with other types of heart problems, women and men can get heart failure for different reasons, and it can affect them differently. They are sometimes used to treat high blood pressure. Aldosterone antagonists. They help the body get rid of water. Pacemakers. These devices control your heartbeat.


Question: What are the treatments for antisperm antibodies?

Answer: They can make it harder for couples to have a baby. But it's rare for antibodies by themselves to make it impossible to get pregnant. Less commonly, your doctor may check your cervical mucus for antisperm antibodies. That could lead to fewer antibodies and raise the chances that your female partner could get pregnant. For women, one treatment that's shown to help your chances of getting pregnant is intrauterine insemination.


Question: What causes antisperm antibodies?

Answer: It happens when the immune system mistakenly targets sperm in a man's semen as an invader and damages or kills it. This can also happen after a testicle surgery like a vasectomy. Women's bodies can make antisperm antibodies if they have an allergic reaction to semen. Antibodies in a woman's vagina kill the sperm. That's rare, and doctors don't know exactly why it happens.


Question: What are antisperm antibodies?

Answer: Like the name says, antisperm antibodies fight sperm. Both men and women can make them. They can make it harder for couples to have a baby. But it's rare for antibodies by themselves to make it impossible to get pregnant. In men, an infection in their prostate or an injury to their testicles can set off an immune response when the sperm comes in contact with blood. This allows the sperm to avoid contact with antisperm antibodies in your cervical mucus.


Question: What is obesity and how can it lead to heart failure?

Answer: More than one-third of Americans are obese. That means the ratio of their weight to their height, known as body mass index or BMI, is 30 or higher. Extra weight puts more strain on your heart. Being obese also makes you more likely to have diseases linked to heart failure, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or sleep apnea.


Question: What is heart muscle disease (Cardiomyopathy) and how can it lead to heart failure?

Answer: This disease damages your heart muscle and makes it so weak it can't pump blood like it should. Cardiomyopathy can run in families, or it can be caused by coronary artery disease, a virus, or another condition.


Question: What is an electrophysiology study?

Answer: Often, this can include what's called an âelectrophysiology studyâ so that doctors can learn in more detail how the different sections of your heart are sending electrical signals to each other. For this test, you are sedated at a hospital or clinic and soft, flexible wires are passed through your veins into your heart. You will need someone to drive you to and from your appointment.


Question: What will your doctor do during a physical exam to diagnose supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?

Answer: Other things she'll ask you about: Whether the symptoms came on suddenly or slowly What they feel like to you and how long they tend to last Whether you've noticed that you've had a fast heartbeat after caffeine or stress Whether you or anyone in your family has had heart problems or procedures During your exam, your doctor probably will listen to your heart and lungs with a stethoscope. She might also: Feel your thyroid gland on your neck Get your temperature and measure your blood pressure Take a small blood sample with a thin needle If your doctor still suspects supraventricular tachycardia after hearing about your symptoms, examining you and running some basic tests, she might ask you to get an EKG.


Question: How is an electrocardiogram (ECG) done to diagnose supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?

Answer: To set up the test, a nurse or technician will attach 12 to 15 sticky patches, called electrodes, to your chest. If you have a hairy chest, an aide may need to shave small areas so they stay put. Each one will go with a wire that leads to a machine. During the test, which takes just a few minutes, you'll be asked to lie still and breathe normally.


Question: What is the role of saliva in preventing tooth enamel erosion?

Answer: Tooth erosion happens when acids wear away the enamel on teeth. Not only does saliva increase the health of the body tissues, it protects enamel by coating the teeth in protective calcium and other minerals. Saliva also dilutes erosive agents such as acid, removes waste material from the mouth, and boosts protective substances that help fight mouth bacteria and disease.


Question: How does fluoride affect tooth enamel erosion?

Answer: While fluoride is useful in preventing tooth decay, too much fluoride can cause problems like enamel fluorosis. Children with enamel fluorosis may have ingested too much fluoride through supplements, or they took fluoride supplements in addition to drinking fluoridated water. Also, swallowing fluoride toothpaste increases the chances of enamel fluorosis. Yet in some severe cases, the teeth are discolored, pitted, and difficult to keep clean.


Question: How does tooth enamel protect your teeth?

Answer: Enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth. Enamel helps protect your teeth from daily use such as chewing, biting, crunching, and grinding. Although enamel is a hard protector of teeth, it can chip and crack. Enamel also insulates the teeth from potentially painful temperatures and chemicals. Because enamel has no living cells, the body cannot repair chipped or cracked enamel.


Question: How can you prevent tooth enamel erosion?

Answer: Enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth. See your dentist every six months for regular checkups and cleaning. You can also try the following: Eliminate highly acidic foods and drinks from your diet such as carbonated sodas, lemons, and other citrus fruits and juices. Rinse your mouth immediately with clear water after eating acidic foods or drinking acidic drinks. The mouth is acidic for a few hours after eating foods high in sugar and starches. Avoid snacking unless you're able to rinse your mouth and brush teeth. Chew sugar-free gum between meals. Drink more water throughout the day if you have low saliva volume or dry mouth. Use fluoride toothpaste. Ask your dentist if sealants may be helpful in preventing enamel erosion and tooth decay.


Question: What are signs of tooth enamel erosion?

Answer: Enamel is the thin outer covering of the tooth. The edges of teeth become more rough, irregular, and jagged as enamel erodes. Indentations appear on the surface of the teeth. When enamel erodes, the tooth is more susceptible to cavities or tooth decay. When the tooth decay enters the hard enamel, it has entry to the main body of the tooth.


Question: How does plaque cause tooth enamel erosion?

Answer: Plaque is a sticky film made up of saliva, food particles, bacteria, and other substances. Plaque forms between your teeth and gets inside tiny holes or pits in the molars. When this happens, the acids in plaque start to eat away at the healthy minerals in the tooth enamel. This causes the enamel to wear down and become pitted.


Question: What do I need to know about tooth enamel erosion and restoration?

Answer: This tough shell is the hardest tissue in the human body. Because enamel is translucent, you can see light through it. But the main portion of the tooth, the dentin, is the part that's responsible for your tooth color -- whether white, off white, grey, or yellowish. Sometimes coffee, tea, cola, red wine, fruit juices, and cigarettes stain the enamel on your teeth. Regular visits to your dentist for routine cleaning and polishing can help remove most surface stains and make sure your teeth stay healthy. If the enamel loss is significant, the dentist may recommend covering the tooth with a crown or veneer.


Question: How is a urinary tract infection treated relative to bladder pain?

Answer: Also, drink plenty of fluids to flush bacteria out of your urinary tract.


Question: What are the symptoms of interstitial cystitis relative to bladder pain?

Answer: A main symptom of IC is pain, which is strongest when the bladder fills and eases when the bladder empties. Pain may also be felt more generally in the lower back, abdomen, or groin. People with this condition may also urinate more frequently or feel an urgent need to urinate, yet they may only pass a little bit of urine each time. Sexual problems may also be related to interstitial cystitis.


Question: How is interstitial cystitis diagnosed?

Answer: Often, a diagnosis of IC is made by ruling out other conditions that cause similar symptoms, such as urinary tract infections, vaginal infections, kidney stones, and cancer. The doctor will take a medical history and perform a physical exam. You may be asked how often you go to the bathroom, if you feel an urgency to go, and when you experience pain. The following tests may be done: Urine sample Cystoscopy. The doctor will insert a long, thin scope (cystoscope) up your urethra to view the inside of your bladder. An ultrasound or CT scan of the pelvis may be done to rule out other conditions.


Question: What is the bladder?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } The bladder is the hollow organ in the lower abdomen that stores urine. As the bladder fills, muscles in its walls relax so that it can expand. As the bladder empties during urination, the muscles contract to squeeze the urine out through the urethra.


Question: How can bladder distention help relieve bladder pain from interstitial cystitis?

Answer: While you are asleep under anesthesia, the doctor fills your bladder with a liquid to stretch its walls. Bladder distention is a technique used to diagnose IC, but it also helps relieve pain for some patients, possibly because it increases the bladder capacity or interferes with the nerves that transmit pain signals from the bladder.


Question: How is a urine cytology used to diagnose bladder cancer relative to bladder pain?

Answer: The urine is examined under a microscope to look for abnormal cells.


Question: What is bladder cancer relative to bladder pain?

Answer: The most common type of bladder cancer is transitional cell carcinoma, which begins in the innermost layer of tissue lining the bladder.


Question: How is a urinary tract infection diagnosed relative to bladder pain?

Answer: Symptoms of a bladder infection may include: Pain or burning during urination Urgent need to urinate Pain or tenderness in the abdomen Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine Low-grade fever Frequent need to urinate Blood in the urine Doctors diagnose urinary tract infections by taking a urine sample and testing it for bacteria.


Question: What treatments can help relieve bladder pain from interstitial cystitis?

Answer: Several treatments may help relieve symptoms of bladder pain and urgency, but finding the one that works for you is often a matter of trial and error. Here are some treatment options: Medications.


Question: What imaging tests are used to diagnose bladder cancer relative to bladder pain?

Answer: A CT or MRI scan is used to take detailed images of the bladder, which are sent to a computer screen. Your doctor may inject a special dye to help the bladder show up more clearly. Intravenous pyelogram ( IVP) is a series of X-rays taken of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder using a contrast dye to highlight these organs.


Question: What are the symptoms of a bladder infection?

Answer: Symptoms of a bladder infection may include: Pain or burning during urination Urgent need to urinate Pain or tenderness in the abdomen Cloudy, bloody, or foul-smelling urine Low-grade fever Frequent need to urinate Blood in the urine Doctors diagnose urinary tract infections by taking a urine sample and testing it for bacteria.


Question: How can nerve stimulation help relieve bladder pain from interstitial cystitis?

Answer: For some patients, a technique called transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation ( TENS) helps relieve pain and the urge to urinate. Electrodes placed on the skin or implanted in the body send electrical impulses to the nerves controlling the bladder. This technique can help strengthen the muscles controlling the bladder, and may trigger the release of chemicals that block pain.


Question: How can bladder training help relieve bladder pain from interstitial cystitis?

Answer: This method can help if you're constantly feeling the urge to urinate. Keep a diary of when you use the bathroom. Gradually try to increase the time between bathroom trips, for example, by 10-minute increments. Eventually you'll be able to go longer periods of time without urinating.


Question: What is interstitial cystitis relative to bladder pain?

Answer: Interstitial cystitis ( IC) is a chronic condition in which the bladder becomes inflamed and irritated. The inflammation stiffens the bladder wall, and makes it difficult for the bladder to fully expand when filling with urine. IC may be caused by a defect in the bladder lining, trauma to the bladder, spinal cord injury or another reason, but research hasn't defined the exact cause. Women are much more likely than men to have the condition.


Question: What bladder problems can cause pain?

Answer: The three most common causes of bladder pain are interstitial cystitis, urinary tract infection, and bladder cancer. Sexual problems may also be related to interstitial cystitis.


Question: How is a cystoscopy used to diagnose bladder cancer relative to bladder pain?

Answer: The doctor will insert a long, thin scope (cystoscope) up your urethra to view the inside of your bladder. During the test, the doctor can remove tissue samples from the bladder to be checked in the lab for cancer (biopsy).


Question: How can you get bladder pain from a urinary tract infection?

Answer: This treatment is thought to work by reducing inflammation and decreasing the sensation of pain. The urinary tract is normally sterile, but sometimes bacteria can sneak in through the urethra, which connects the bladder with the outside of the body.


Question: Does benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) increase your risk of developing prostate cancer?

Answer: However, BPH and prostate cancer have similar symptoms, and a man who has BPH may have undetected cancer at the same time. The entire procedure is computer-controlled, based on temperature recordings obtained in the urethra and rectum.


Question: What can cause white matter disease?

Answer: Many different diseases, injuries, and toxins can cause changes in your white matter. Doctors point to the same blood vessel problems that lead to heart trouble or strokes: Long-term high blood pressure Ongoing blood vessel inflammation Smoking It may be worse for women. You may also be more likely to get it if you have: Diabetes High cholesterol Parkinson's disease History of stroke Genetics may also play a role.


Question: What are the symptoms of white matter disease?

Answer: White matter helps you problem-solve and focus. It also plays an important role in mood, walking, and balance. So when something's wrong with it, you might notice: Trouble learning or remembering new things A hard time with problem solving Slowed thinking Leaking urine Depression Problems walking Balance issues and more falls White matter disease is different from Alzheimer's, which affects the brain's gray matter.


Question: What can I do to keep white matter disease from getting worse?

Answer: But you can take steps to stop it from spreading. Scientists think you might even be able to repair the damage, if you catch it early. Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar in check. That can lead to white matter changes. To keep your heart healthy, follow a low-fat, low-salt diet, and get about 2 and a half hours of moderate-intensity exercise each week. Manage diabetes if you have it and keep your cholesterol in check. If you smoke, stop now.


Question: How is white matter disease treated?

Answer: There isn't a specific treatment. The goal is to treat the cause of the damage and stop the disease from getting worse. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to lower your blood pressure or cholesterol.


Question: What is white matter disease?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } White matter disease is the wearing away of tissue in the largest and deepest part of your brain due to aging. The signals that help you do these things can't get through. White matter helps you problem-solve and focus.


Question: How is white matter disease diagnosed?

Answer: White matter disease happens in older or elderly people. You may need more tests to rule out other causes. The goal is to treat the cause of the damage and stop the disease from getting worse. That can lead to white matter changes.


Question: When do you need stitches for bleeding?

Answer: How big is it? You'll want to see a doctor if the wound: Looks very deep, even if it's not especially long or wide Is more than a half-inch long Opens so wide that you can't get the edges together with just a little pressure Has ragged edges Has debris in it such as dirt, glass, or gravel How badly is it bleeding? You'll likely need stitches if the wound: Bleeds enough to soak through a bandage Keeps bleeding even after you apply direct pressure for 5 to 10 minutes Spurts blood What caused it?


Question: Why are stitches important?

Answer: When you need them, stitches are important because they: Give you support and strength while your skin closes up Lower your chances of bleeding and infection Minimize scars So it helps to know when to take care of a cut on your own and when you need to see a doctor.


Question: What should you do before you go to the doctor for stitches?

Answer: You'll likely need stitches if the wound: Bleeds enough to soak through a bandage Keeps bleeding even after you apply direct pressure for 5 to 10 minutes Spurts blood What caused it? If you have an object, such as a nail, stuck through your skin, leave it there. It may keep the bleeding from getting worse. Don't eat or drink. Apply pressure. Use a clean towel or bandage to apply direct pressure to the wound. Clean the wound. Put a clean bandage over it.


Question: What causes schizophrenia?

Answer: An interaction between something in your genes and something in your environment probably causes the disease. Researchers still have a lot to learn about it, but it's likely that many things play a role. Some, like exposure to a virus or malnutrition (according to one theory about causes), might have happened while you were still in your mother's womb. No one knows exactly why it usually crops up in late adolescence, but there are many theories.


Question: When do schizophrenia symptoms usually start?

Answer: On average, men are diagnosed in their late teens to early 20s. Late-onset schizophrenia is diagnosed after the person is 45.


Question: Why does schizophrenia usually show up in late adolescence?

Answer: These shifts might trigger the disease in people who are at risk for it. Some scientists believe it has to do with development in an area of the brain called the frontal cortex. Others think it has to do with too many connections between nerve cells being eliminated as the brain matures. Hormones also play a major role in puberty. One theory is that women get schizophrenia later than men because they go through puberty earlier and the hormone estrogen might somehow protect them. Another issue is that many of the changes leading up to schizophrenia, called the prodome, can mirror other normal life changes.


Question: Why is schizophrenia hard to diagnose?

Answer: Schizophrenia can be hard to diagnose for a few reasons. One is that people with the disorder often don't realize they're ill, so they're unlikely to go to a doctor for help. Another issue is that many of the changes leading up to schizophrenia, called the prodome, can mirror other normal life changes. For example, a teen who's developing the illness might drop his group of friends and take up with new ones. He may also have trouble sleeping or suddenly start coming home with poor grades. Once you have full-blown schizophrenia, the symptoms are much more severe.


Question: Is there a medical difference between fatigue and tiredness?

Answer: Tiredness happens to everyone -- it is an expected feeling after certain activities or at the end of the day. Usually you know why you are tired and a good night's sleep solves the problem. Fatigue is a daily lack of energy; unusual or excessive whole-body tiredness not relieved by sleep.


Question: How can I be alert to my personal warnings signs of fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Fatigue is a daily lack of energy; unusual or excessive whole-body tiredness not relieved by sleep.


Question: What can I do about multiple sclerosis and fatigue?

Answer: The best way to combat fatigue related to your MS is to treat the underlying medical cause. Unfortunately, the exact cause of MS-related fatigue is often unknown, or there may be multiple causes.


Question: Should I schedule rest to help deal with fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Schedule rest.


Question: Should I decrease physical activity in order to deal with fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Decreased physical activity, which may be the result of illness or of treatment, can lead to tiredness and lack of energy. 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 decrease these feelings, help you stay active, and increase your energy.


Question: How can I limit work that requires reaching over your head in order to help fatigue from muscle sclerosis?

Answer: Limit work that requires reaching over your head. For example, use long-handled tools, store items lower, and delegate activities whenever possible.


Question: How should I practice proper body mechanics to help deal with multiple sclerosis?

Answer: When sitting, use a chair with good back support. Sit up with your back straight and your shoulders back. Adjust the level of your work. Work without bending over. When bending to lift something, bend your knees and use your leg muscles to lift, not your back. Do not bend forward at the waist with your knees straight. Also, try carrying several small loads instead of one large one, or use a cart.


Question: How can I learn how to manage stress to deal with fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Here are tips to help keep stress in check: Adjust your expectations. For example, if you have a list of 10 things you want to accomplish today, pare it down to two and leave the rest for other days. A sense of accomplishment goes a long way to reducing stress. Help others understand and support you. Family and friends can be helpful if they can "put themselves in your shoes" and understand what fatigue means to you. Support groups can be a source of comfort as well. Other people with MS understand what you are going through. Relaxation techniques. Audiotapes that teach deep breathing or visualization can help reduce stress. Participate in activities that divert your attention away from fatigue. For example, activities such as knitting, reading, or listening to music require little physical energy but require attention. If your stress seems out of control, talk to your doctor. They are there to help.


Question: What is the difference between tiredness and fatigue?

Answer: Tiredness happens to everyone -- it is an expected feeling after certain activities or at the end of the day. Usually you know why you are tired and a good night's sleep solves the problem. Fatigue is a daily lack of energy; unusual or excessive whole-body tiredness not relieved by sleep.


Question: When should I tell my doctor about my fatigue?

Answer: Although fatigue is a common and often expected symptom of MS, you should feel free to mention your concerns to your doctors. There are times when fatigue may be a clue to some other underlying medical problem. Other times, there may be medical interventions that can prevent fatigue.


Question: How can I plan ahead and organize my work to help treat my fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Plan ahead and organize your work. For example, change storage of items to reduce trips or reaching, delegate tasks when needed, and combine activities and simplify details.


Question: When should I tell my doctor about my fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Although fatigue is a common and often expected symptom of MS, you should feel free to mention your concerns to your doctors. There are times when fatigue may be a clue to some other underlying medical problem. Other times, there may be medical interventions that can prevent fatigue.


Question: Should I pace myself to help treat fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Pace yourself. Alternate sitting and standing. Audiotapes that teach deep breathing or visualization can help reduce stress.


Question: Should I prioritize my activities to help deal with fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: MS-related fatigue tends to get worse as the day goes on, is often aggravated by heat and humidity, and comes on more easily and suddenly than normal fatigue. Note what you think may be contributing factors.


Question: What's the best thing to do for a stuffy nose at home?

Answer: Salt-water rinsing helps break nasal congestion, while also removing virus particles and bacteria from your nose. Here's a popular recipe: Mix 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water. Use a bulb syringe or nasal irrigation kit to squirt water into the nose. Hold one nostril closed by applying light finger pressure while squirting the salt mixture into the other nostril. Let it drain. Repeat two to three times, then treat the other nostril.


Question: What should I do about severe cold or flu symptoms?

Answer: Here are some good foods to eat when you're battling a cold or flu: Bananas and rice to soothe an upset stomach and curb diarrhea Vitamin C-containing foods like bell peppers Blueberries curb diarrhea and are high in natural aspirin, which may lower fevers and help with aches and pains Carrots, which contain beta-carotene Chili peppers may open sinuses, and help break up mucus in the lungs Cranberries may help prevent bacteria from sticking to cells lining the bladder and urinary tract Mustard or horseradish may helps break up mucus in air passages Onions contain phytochemicals purported to help the body clear bronchitis and other infections Black and green tea contain catechin, a phytochemical purported to have natural antibiotic and anti-diarrhea effects Remember, serious conditions, such as sinus infections, bronchitis, meningitis, strep throat, and asthma, can look like the common cold. If you have severe symptoms, or don't seem to be getting better, call your doctor.


Question: What is the best way to use a salve when sick?

Answer: A small dab of mentholated salve under your nose can help to open breathing passages and restore the irritated skin at the base of the nose. Menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor all have mild numbing ingredients that may help relieve the pain of a nose rubbed raw. However, only put it on the outside, under your nose, not inside your nose.


Question: What are the best foods to eat for a cold or the flu?

Answer: Here are some good foods to eat when you're battling a cold or flu: Bananas and rice to soothe an upset stomach and curb diarrhea Vitamin C-containing foods like bell peppers Blueberries curb diarrhea and are high in natural aspirin, which may lower fevers and help with aches and pains Carrots, which contain beta-carotene Chili peppers may open sinuses, and help break up mucus in the lungs Cranberries may help prevent bacteria from sticking to cells lining the bladder and urinary tract Mustard or horseradish may helps break up mucus in air passages Onions contain phytochemicals purported to help the body clear bronchitis and other infections Black and green tea contain catechin, a phytochemical purported to have natural antibiotic and anti-diarrhea effects Remember, serious conditions, such as sinus infections, bronchitis, meningitis, strep throat, and asthma, can look like the common cold.


Question: How does resting help a cold or the flu?

Answer: Staying warm and resting when you first come down with a cold or the flu helps your body direct its energy toward the immune battle.


Question: How can I relieve congestion at night?

Answer: Steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages and may help you relax. If the angle is too awkward, try placing the pillows between the mattress and the box springs to create a more gradual slope.


Question: What's the best way to gargle for a sore throat?

Answer: A decongestant, like Sudafed, restricts flow to the blood vessels in your nose and throat. Here's a popular recipe: Mix 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before gargling. Add one teaspoon of honey and one small shot (about 1 ounce) of whiskey or bourbon.


Question: What is the cure rate in most cases of chlamydia?

Answer: Pregnant women should also be tested as part of their routine lab work. Women with serious infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, may require a longer course of antibiotics or hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics.


Question: What are the treatments for chlamydia?

Answer: In most cases of chlamydia, the cure rate is 95%. If you are diagnosed with chlamydia, your doctor will prescribe oral antibiotics. A single dose of azithromycin or taking doxycycline twice daily for 7 to 14 days are the most common treatments and are the same for those with or without HIV. With treatment, the infection should clear up in about a week. Do not have sex for at least 7 days until you have taken all of your medication, and do not stop taking the antibiotics even if you feel better. Your doctor will also recommend that your partner(s) be treated as well to prevent reinfection and further spread of the disease.


Question: How can I protect someone while they're having a seizure?

Answer: Loosen clothing around the person's neck. Roll the person on his or her side to keep the airway open. Don't put anything into the person's mouth. Move sharp objects, such as glassware or furniture, away from the person. Ask bystanders to give the person room. Do not restrain or hold down the person.


Question: How can you help prevent someone from choking during a seizure?

Answer: Loosen clothing around the person's neck. Roll the person on his or her side to keep the airway open. Don't put anything into the person's mouth.


Question: How is CBT (cognitive behvioral therapy) used to treat back pain?

Answer: CBT: If you consult a psychotherapist for cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT), your treatment may include stress management, behavioral adaptation, education, and relaxation techniques. CBT can lessen the intensity of back pain, change perceptions about levels of pain and disability, and even lift depression. The NIH considers CBT useful for relieving low back pain, citing studies that show CBT to be superior to routine care and placebo.


Question: Is long-term bed rest used to treat back pain?

Answer: Long-term bed rest is not only no longer considered necessary for most cases of back pain, it is actually potentially harmful, making recovery slower and potentially causing new problems. In most cases, you will be expected to start normal, nonstrenuous activity (such as walking) within 24 to 72 hours. After that ask your doctor about controlled exercise or physical therapy. Physical therapy treatments may employ massage, ultrasound, whirlpool baths, controlled application of heat, and individually tailored exercise programs to help you regain full use of the back. Strengthening both the abdominal and back muscles helps stabilize the spine. You can help prevent further back injury by learning - and doing - gentle stretching exercises and proper lifting techniques, and maintaining good posture.


Question: What specialists can help with back pain?

Answer: Often, a pain specialist or back specialist will also employ rehabilitation and counseling by non-physician personnel such as therapists, counselors, and patient educators.


Question: How is biofeedback used to treat back pain?

Answer: Biofeedback: If lower back pain is related to muscle tension or spasm, biofeedback can be effective for lessening pain intensity, decreasing drug use, and improving quality of life. Biofeedback may help you train your muscles to respond better to stress or movement.


Question: What kind of exercises can help with my back pain?

Answer: Exercise methods: The Alexander Technique, Pilates, and the Feldendkrais Method are all specialized forms of body work that help you learn to move in a more coordinated, flexible, and graceful manner. They may help you become more aware of your movements and may help relieve stress. Some of the postures of yoga may help diminish low back pain, improve flexibility, strength, and sense of balance. Yoga is also good for stress reduction and can help with the psychological aspects of pain. Core exercises strengthen the muscles that support the back and help reduce pain.


Question: How is spinal manipulation used to treat back pain?

Answer: Spinal manipulation: The U. S. Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality recognizes spinal manipulation by chiropractors and osteopaths as effective for acute low-back pain. Its effectiveness for treating chronic back pain is less well established. Some researchers suggest that early manipulative treatment for acute back pain may prevent chronic problems from developing. Other doctors warn against some chiropractic manipulations, particularly those that involve rapid twisting of the neck. Spinal manipulation can be considered a form of conservative care for the treatment of acute and chronic back pain as it is not invasive and does not employ prescription medications.


Question: How is acupuncture used to treat back pain?

Answer: Acupuncture: Both the American Pain Society and the American College of Physicians released guidelines stating that acupuncture may help patients with chronic low-back pain when other treatments have failed. It can be used alone or as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes medications and other therapies. However, there is not enough evidence yet to recommend it for acute back pain.


Question: How is TENS used to treat back pain?

Answer: TENS: Some physicians advocate using a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulator ( TENS). Electrodes taped to the body carry a mild electric current that helps relieve pain. After appropriate training, patients can use a TENS on their own to help reduce pain while they recover from strained or moderately injured backs.


Question: What are symptoms of prion diseases?

Answer: Signs of prion diseases include sudden changes in your mood, memory, and movement, such as: Anxiety or depression Balance problems Behavior or personality changes Dementia Memory loss Muscle control loss, like sudden jerks or twitches Seizures Slurred speech Trouble swallowing Unsteady walk Vision problems Prions are tiny proteins in your brain that don't act the way they should.


Question: What are treatments for prion diseases?

Answer: For now, treatments for prion diseases only ease your symptoms. They include pain drugs, antidepressants, sedatives, or antipsychotic drugs. You also may need a catheter to help drain urine or feeding tubes to help you eat.


Question: What prion diseases can affect people?

Answer: Prion diseases that affect people include: Creutzfeldt- Jakob disease ( CJD) Variant Creutzfeldt- Jakob disease ( VCJD) Gerstmann- Straussler- Scheinker syndrome Fatal familial insomnia Kuru Variably protease-sensitive prionopathy Creutzfeld- Jakob disease is the most common. It usually affects people around age 60. VCJD can affect younger adults.


Question: What are prions?

Answer: You can have them for many years before you notice any symptoms. Even though prion diseases cause dementia, Alzheimer's disease is not in this group. Proteins that don't work the way they should and damage brain cells are to blame for both diseases, but the diseases involve different genes and proteins.


Question: What causes prion diseases?

Answer: But like Alzheimer's, there is no cure for prion diseases. Most people get prion diseases like CJD for no apparent reason. It's possible to get VCJD if you eat beef infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or mad cow disease. When mad cow disease broke out in cattle in Europe in the 1990s, a small number of people developed VCJD and died. Four people also got VCJD from blood transfusions when the donor was infected.


Question: How do doctors diagnose prion disease?

Answer: If you have symptoms like dementia, your doctor might first rule out other possible causes. The following tests may show if your symptoms are caused by a stroke, brain tumor, or inflammation: Spinal tap (also called lumbar puncture): A doctor puts a needle between two of your vertebrae (bones in your back) to take a sample of the fluid around your brain and spinal cord. But this is a dangerous operation, so it's only done if your doctor thinks you might have another disorder that could be treated differently.


Question: What's the difference between a sedentary lifestyle, a moderately active lifestyle and an active lifestyle?

Answer: Gender Age Sedentary* Moderately Active* Active* Females 19-30 31-50 51+ 1800-2000 1800 1600 2000-2200 2000 1800 2400 2200 2000-2200 Males 19-30 31-50 51+ 2400-2600 2200-2400 2000-2200 2600-2800 2400-2600 2200-2400 3000 2800-3000 2400-2800 * Sedentary means a lifestyle that includes light physical activity associated with typical activities of daily living. Moderately active consists of walking 1.5 to 3 miles daily at a pace of 3 to 4 miles per hour (or the equivalent). An active person walks more than 3 miles daily at the same pace, or equivalent exercise.


Question: How many calories a day should I have if I want to gain weight?

Answer: To gain weight, it's best to work on a plan with a dietitian.


Question: When should you see a doctor about panic attacks?

Answer: Usually, a panic attack comes with a few of these: A sense of approaching danger Quick, intense, heartbeat Nausea Chills Cramps in your belly Headache Numbness or tingling Shortness of breath Throat tightness Trembling Hot flashes A feeling that you're apart from reality If you feel like you're having a panic attack, see you doctor right away. While they are not dangerous, they can get worse without treatment. Symptoms of a panic attack are similar to those for more serious conditions. If you're not sure if what you're having is a panic attack, call your doctor, just to be safe.


Question: What is panic disorder?

Answer: If they keep coming back, you have a persistent fear of more attacks, or you change your behavior significantly because of them, you have something called panic disorder. Nearly one in 20 adults have it, and women are twice as likely as men to get it. Many people with panic disorder relate an attack to what they were doing when it happened. They may think the restaurant, elevator, or classroom caused the attack. Then they'll avoid those places. That may lead to something called agoraphobia -- the fear of leaving home or being in public places.