Question: Where is neurofibrosarcoma typically found?

Answer: However, it also can affect the lower back, head, or neck. Neurofibrosarcomas can spread along the nerves. They typically don't reach other organs, although they can spread to the lungs. Symptoms of schwannomas can include: A painless or painful growth or swelling on the face Hearing loss or ringing in the ear (vestibular schwannoma) Loss of coordination and balance (vestibular schwannoma) Numbness, weakness, or paralysis in the face Symptoms of neurofibrosarcomas can include: Swelling or a lump in the arms or legs Pain or soreness Difficulty using the arms, legs, feet, or hands Doctors diagnose nerve sheath tumors by doing a physical and neurological (brain and nervous system) examination.


Question: What causes nerve sheath tumors?

Answer: Schwannomas are most often nonmalignant tumors. These are known as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, or neurofibrosarcomas. However, nerve sheath tumors are more common in people who have the inherited disorder, neurofibromatosis type 1 (previously known as von Recklinghausen disease). Having a genetic disorder called schwannomatosis also can increase the risk for schwannomas. A small percentage of neurofibrosarcomas are related to past radiation exposure.


Question: Are nerve sheath tumors malignant?

Answer: Neurofibrosarcomas are malignant tumors. These are known as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, or neurofibrosarcomas.


Question: What should I expect during my baby's 3rd month?

Answer: Your Baby's Development This Week Your baby's almost 3 months old! Every day, he gains more control over his rapidly-growing body. Here are some things your baby may be doing by now: Keeping his hands open more often (unlike that newborn clenched fist) and carefully opening and closing them Showing some head control when upright, trying to push up on his arms, lifting his head, neck, and chest when lying on his tummy Socializing more with his smiling, gurgling, cooing, and even showing an interest in other children You might wonder about: Disappearing reflexes.


Question: What should I do when my baby cries?

Answer: Coping with baby's cries: First, troubleshoot. Is baby hungry? In pain from a too-tight diaper, pinching snap, or a fine hair wrapped tightly around a finger or toe? If baby's full, clean, comfortable, and without a fever, try soothing him by swaddling, walking and rocking, and turning on a calming sound like the vacuum or a white noise machine. Offer a pacifier or a finger to suck. Although "crying it out" as a sleep training tactic is not recommended for newborns, if you're about to start crying hysterically, it's OK to put baby down in a safe space for a few minutes to give yourself a break.


Question: What is used to diagnose ulcers?

Answer: Endoscopy, in which a flexible fiber-optic tube is inserted down the throat to give the doctor a direct view of the inside of your esophagus, stomach, and duodenum, is the most accurate diagnostic test to diagnose a peptic ulcer. This allows the doctor to determine the presence and cause of bleeding and test for any bacterial infection. During this exam, your doctor may also conduct a biopsy to check for cancer. For people who can't have an endoscopy, a barium swallow (or upper GI series of X-rays) can also allow your doctor to identify and locate the ulcer and determine its type and severity. The test requires you to drink a "barium milkshake," which has a liquid that will show up on an X-ray. You may be asked to eat only bland, easily digestible foods for two or three days before the test. After drinking the chalky liquid, you lie down on a tilting examining table, which evenly distributes the barium around your upper digestive tract and allows the X-ray to capture images at different angles.


Question: When is surgery needed to treat ulcers?

Answer: For recurrent, severe cases that do not respond to medication, surgery may be necessary. Surgical treatment of peptic ulcers is reserved for ulcer disease unresponsive to medical management or emergency treatment of complications, such as bleeding. If your ulcer is hemorrhaging, the surgeon will identify the source of the bleeding (usually a small artery at the base of the ulcer) and repair it. Perforated ulcers -- holes in the entire stomach or duodenal wall -- must be surgically closed. However, you should have an in-depth discussion with your doctor as there are many potential complications associated with the procedures, including ulcer recurrence, liver complications, and ''dumping syndrome,'' which causes chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and/or sweating after eating.


Question: How are genital herpes diagnosed?

Answer: Most people with genital herpes don't know they have it.


Question: Can symptoms be treated at home?

Answer: Symptom triggers can include: Fatigue Illness Sexual intercourse Menstruation Stress Surgery Trauma There are things you can do to relieve the discomfort and severity of the symptoms during an outbreak. Home treatments include: Take painkillers such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen. Bathe sore areas with a warm salt-water solution twice a day (1/2 teaspoon salt with 1/2 pint warm water). Let air circulate around the sores by wearing loose-fitting clothes. Put an ice pack on the affected area. Wrap the ice pack in a towel or piece of cloth. Get plenty of rest.


Question: Can pregnant women pass genital herpes to their child?

Answer: Although it's rare, pregnant women can pass on the herpes infection to their child. This can result in a serious and sometimes deadly infection in the baby. That's why taking steps to prevent an outbreak at time of delivery is recommended starting at 34 weeks into the pregnancy. If you have signs of an active viral infection when it's time to deliver, your doctor will likely recommend a cesarean section for delivery.


Question: What is a risk associated with genital herpes?

Answer: People with genital herpes have a higher risk of an HIV infection. One reason is that cracks and breaks in the skin that result from an outbreak create openings through which HIV can enter the body.


Question: What causes genital herpes?

Answer: Most cases of genital herpes are caused by infection by the herpes simplex virus type 2 ( HSV-2). Herpes simplex virus type 1 ( HSV-1) is more often the cause of cold sores or fever blisters. But it can also be a cause of genital herpes.


Question: Can symptoms of genital herpes come back?

Answer: People who have an initial outbreak following a genital HSV infection can expect to have four to five outbreaks within a year. As time goes on, your body builds up more immunity to the virus, and the outbreaks may become less frequent, even stopping altogether in some people.


Question: What are the symptoms of a genital HSV infection?

Answer: Any of the following symptoms of a genital HSV infection can occur in a man or a woman: Cracked, raw, or red areas around your genitals without pain, itching, or tingling Itching or tingling around your genitals or your anal region Small blisters that break open and cause painful sores. These may be on or around your genitals (penis or vagina) or on your buttocks, thighs, or rectal area. More rarely, blisters may occur inside the urethra -- the tube urine passes through on its way out of your body. Pain from urine passing over the sores -- this is especially a problem in women. Headaches Backaches Flu-like symptoms, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue Genital herpes is not the only condition that can produce these symptoms.


Question: How serious of a health problem are the symptoms of genital herpes?

Answer: For most people, genital herpes is not a serious threat to their health. Aside from the discomfort, an HSV infection is more of a psychological stressor. It can: Create anxiety Affect a person's self-esteem Interfere with a person's sense of security and intimacy In some cases, though, complications from genital herpes can be serious, even life-threatening.


Question: What happens in an HSV infection?

Answer: Genital herpes virus is passed from one person to another through sexual contact. This happens even if the person with the virus doesn't have symptoms or signs of infection. Once the virus enters through the skin, it travels along nerve paths. It may become dormant (inactive) in the nerves and remain there indefinitely. From time to time, the virus may become active. When that happens, the virus travels back along the nerve path to the surface of the skin, where additional virus is shed. At this point the virus may cause an outbreak of symptoms. Or it may remain undetected. In either case, the active virus is easily passed from one partner to another through sexual contact. Even wearing a condom may not protect the uninfected partner. The virus can be present on skin that remains uncovered. The number of recurrences or outbreaks a person can have may vary.


Question: What should you do if you think you may have genital herpes?

Answer: If you have any reason to believe you may have an HSV infection as the result of a sexual encounter -- either genital or oral -- contact your health care provider.


Question: Can symptoms of genital herpes be treated?

Answer: But it can also be a cause of genital herpes. Treatment can also reduce the risk of infecting others. Medication taken on a daily basis to suppress the virus can reduce the number of outbreaks and reduce the risk of infecting others. For most people, genital herpes is not a serious threat to their health. If you have any reason to believe you may have an HSV infection as the result of a sexual encounter -- either genital or oral -- contact your health care provider.


Question: What causes symptoms of genital herpes to come back?

Answer: From time to time, the virus may become active. Symptom triggers can include: Fatigue Illness Sexual intercourse Menstruation Stress Surgery Trauma There are things you can do to relieve the discomfort and severity of the symptoms during an outbreak.


Question: What can you do to prevent spreading genital herpes?

Answer: Symptom triggers can include: Fatigue Illness Sexual intercourse Menstruation Stress Surgery Trauma There are things you can do to relieve the discomfort and severity of the symptoms during an outbreak. Avoid oral sex when either partner has oral or genital sores. Don't have genital or anal contact when any sores are present. Wash your hands with soap and water after touching infected areas. Don't wet your contact lenses with saliva.


Question: What is the treatment for breast cancer recurrence?

Answer: The type of treatment you get for local breast cancer recurrences depends on the type of treatment you got at first. If you had a lumpectomy, local recurrence is usually treated with a mastectomy. If you had a mastectomy, recurrence near the mastectomy site is treated by removing the tumor if possible, usually followed by radiation. In either case, you may have hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or radiation after surgery. Sometimes, you doctor will use a combination. If breast cancer is found in the other breast, it may be a new tumor unrelated to the first breast cancer. This would be treated like a new case of breast cancer. You would get either a lumpectomy or mastectomy, followed by more treatments if necessary. If the cancer comes back in another part of the body, such as the bones, lungs, liver, or brain, you may get surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination. It depends on your specific situation. Doctors may recommend that women whose cancer cells have high levels of the HER2 protein undergo targeted therapy, alone or with chemotherapy, with one of these drugs: Ado-trastuzumab emtansine ( Kadcyla) Lapatinib ( Tykerb) Neratinib ( Nerlynx) Pertuzumab ( Perjeta) Trastuzumab ( Herceptin) Immunotherapy stimulates you own immune system to find and destroy cancer cells.


Question: How often should you see your doctor to check for breast cancer recurrence?

Answer: At first, your follow-up appointments may be every 3 to 4 months. The longer you are cancer-free, the less often you will need to see your doctor.


Question: What are the risk factors for a breast cancer recurrence?

Answer: Tumor size. The larger the tumor was, the greater the chance of recurrence. Cancer spread. If your breast cancer had spread to your lymph nodes, the more lymph nodes that had cancer cells, the more likely your risk of recurrence. Your risk is also higher if cancer cells were found in the lymph vessels or blood vessels of your breast. Hormone receptors . About two-thirds of all breast cancers have receptors for estrogen (called ER+) or progesterone ( PR+) or both types. HER2. This gene triggers the growth of cancer cells. Histologic grade. This term refers to how much the tumor cells resemble normal cells when viewed under the microscope. The higher the histologic grade, the higher the odds of recurrence. Nuclear grade. This is the rate at which cancer cells in the tumor divide to form more cells. Cancer cells with a high nuclear grade are usually more aggressive (faster growing).


Question: How do you know if there is a recurrence of breast cancer?

Answer: You should keep doing breast self-exams, checking the treated area and your other breast each month. You should tell your doctor about any changes right away. Also, keep getting regular mammograms. In some screening centers, three-dimensional mammograms are available in addition to traditional digital mammograms. If genetic tests show you have the BRCA mutations, you may also need an MRI of your breast. Talk to your doctor about the best screening tests for you.


Question: What does breast cancer recurrence mean?

Answer: For some women it does, and for others it doesn't. When breast cancer comes back, it's called recurrence.


Question: What breast changes might be a recurrence?

Answer: Breast changes that might be a recurrence include: A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm that doesn't go away after your period A change in the size, shape, or contour of the breast A marble-like area under the skin A change in the feel or appearance of the skin on the breast or nipple, including skin that is dimpled, puckered, scaly, red, warm, or swollen Blood or clear fluid coming out of a nipple Along with monthly breast self-exams, you should go to follow-up appointments with your doctor.


Question: What physical changes might you get with Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: Some of the changes you might experience are: Loss of balance or coordination Stiff muscles Feet that shuffle or drag when you walk Trouble standing or sitting up in a chair Weak muscles and fatigue When and how much you sleep Trouble controlling your bladder or bowels Seizures and uncontrollable twitches Over time, most people with Alzheimer's lose the ability to take care of themselves.


Question: What happens to people with early-stage Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: The damage usually starts in the area of your brain that forms memories. People with early-stage Alzheimer's disease often have trouble remembering things. As the disease gets worse, the plaques and clusters also appear in the parts of the brain in charge of bodily behaviors. Everyday activities like walking, eating, going to the bathroom, and talking become harder.


Question: What health problems can Alzheimer's disease cause?

Answer: Infections may develop as your immune system begins to fail. Pneumonia can set in, especially if you inhale food or drinks by accident. Injuries from falls are more likely to happen. Most people with Alzheimer's disease die from pneumonia, another infection, or a heart attack.


Question: What is the life expectancy with Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: The pace can be slow. Some people live up to 20 years after a diagnosis. The average life expectancy, though, is 4 to 8 years.


Question: How does Alzheimer's disease affect a person's body?

Answer: But the symptoms can be physical as well as mental. It can change the way you walk, talk, and how your body works. Some people have physical problems before serious memory loss. In one study, people who walked slowly and had poor balance were more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in the following 6 years. Most people with Alzheimer's disease die from pneumonia, another infection, or a heart attack.


Question: What are challenges in caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: Some of the changes you might experience are: Loss of balance or coordination Stiff muscles Feet that shuffle or drag when you walk Trouble standing or sitting up in a chair Weak muscles and fatigue When and how much you sleep Trouble controlling your bladder or bowels Seizures and uncontrollable twitches Over time, most people with Alzheimer's lose the ability to take care of themselves. You may need help with basic things such as brushing your teeth, washing your hair and body, and changing your clothes. It might be hard to have a meaningful conversation. In the later stages, you might lose your ability to speak. At some point, you may need to move to a residential care facility to get the care you need.


Question: What causes Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: These proteins form large clumps, called tangles and plaques. They get in the way of normal brain function and kill healthy cells. As the disease gets worse, the plaques and clusters also appear in the parts of the brain in charge of bodily behaviors.


Question: What causes mastitis?

Answer: Mastitis is a common condition in women who breastfeed. As many as 1 in 10 breastfeeding women in the U. S. get it. It's caused by a backup of milk in the milk ducts. This happens when your baby isn't sucking or attaching properly, or favors one breast over the other. Mastitis can also happen if you don't feed or pump regularly. Breastfeeding women aren't the only ones who get mastitis. If you're not breastfeeding, a cracked nipple or nipple piercing can cause the breast infection. Both allow bacteria to get into the milk ducts. This is especially common in women who smoke.


Question: How can you prevent mastitis?

Answer: Tight bras and clothing put pressure on your breasts. Keep things light and loose. To keep milk from backing up, make sure your baby attaches correctly, and get all the milk out of each breast during every feeding. A lactation consultant can help if you need support.


Question: What are the symptoms of mastitis?

Answer: The catchall name for an infection of the breast tissue is mastitis. Mastitis can make you feel like you have the flu, but it can be cured a lot quicker. Just like any other infection, the tissue around the infected area becomes inflamed to keep it from spreading to other parts of the body. You may also have discharge from your nipple or feel a hard lump in your breast.


Question: What is mastitis?

Answer: If you're not, it's called periductal mastitis. Mastitis can make you feel like you have the flu, but it can be cured a lot quicker. Just like any other infection, the tissue around the infected area becomes inflamed to keep it from spreading to other parts of the body.


Question: How is mastitis treated?

Answer: If you're not, it's called periductal mastitis. Mastitis can make you feel like you have the flu, but it can be cured a lot quicker. As many as 1 in 10 breastfeeding women in the U. S. get it. Drink lots of water, wear loose bras, and rest as much as possible. Your doctor may suggest ibuprofen, or something like it, to take care of the fever and pain. It's important to keep breastfeeding and move that milk in and out of the ducts. Even though it might be painful, it won't harm your baby.


Question: When should I call my doctor about a sore throat?

Answer: You may also have: Sneezing and coughing Hoarseness Runny nose Mild fever General fatigue Swollen glands in the neck Belly pain Rash You also have a fever higher than 101 degrees F without other cold symptoms. This could mean you have strep throat. It's a bacterial infection that needs to get treated. You also have flu-like symptoms that don't get better after a few days. This could be infectious mononucleosis or other viral infections. Your child or teen has flu-like symptoms. Influenza can also lead to problems if you're pregnant, extremely obese, or have an ongoing illness such as COPD, asthma, or diabetes. Extreme obesity with a BMI of 40 or greater is a risk factor for flu complications. You've got any pain or hoarseness that lasts longer than 2 weeks. There's a chance that this could be a warning sign of throat cancer or oral cancer if you have other risk factors for cancer such as smoking. Your sore throat lingers for more than a week and you also have postnasal drip, sneezing, and itchy eyes. You might have allergies. Your sore throat comes with drooling, or you have trouble swallowing or breathing. This might mean your epiglottis, the structure that overhangs the opening to your throat, is inflamed. You could also have an abscess in the back of your throat. You need to get treated ASAP for these two rare conditions. You have a sore throat and pain that moves to your ear. This may be a sign of an ear infection or a more serious problem.


Question: How much sleep do you need for your immune system to work properly?

Answer: You need 7 to 8 hours of shut-eye each night to boost your defenses.


Question: What is the immune system?

Answer: Simply put, it's a balanced network of cells and organs that work together to defend you against disease. It stops threats like bacteria or viruses from getting into your body. Think of it as a powerful "search and destroy" task force that sends immune-cell forces out to hunt down the unwanted intruders and get rid of them.


Question: How can lifestyle changes that are good for the immune system prevent sickness?

Answer: These tactics also bump up your levels of Ig A, a protein in your immune system that fights infections. It helps keep threats out of your body -- and zaps any that do get in.


Question: How does the immune system work?

Answer: You also have a backup response known as the "cell-mediated immune system." This involves immune system cells rather than antibodies. They help your body create memories of past defenses against certain threats. When your body sees that invader again, it calls up that memory and sets out to destroy the threat before the disease develops. This is what makes vaccines or immunizations work for illnesses like the flu, measles, chicken pox, or hepatitis. The shot has a small but harmless amount of the disease in it so your immune cells can react, learn, and remember how to protect you from it next time.


Question: Can lifestyle changes boost your immune system?

Answer: That's why doctors urge you to make certain lifestyle changes.


Question: What vaccines do children and teens need?

Answer: Children and teens need these: Hepatitis A and B Rotavirus Diphtheria Tetanus Pertussis Measles, mumps, rubella Varicella Polio Pneumococcus Human papillomavirus ( HPV) Meningococcal Influenza Haemophilus influenza type B -- called Hi B The CDC says all children ages 11 to 12 need a vaccine for meningitis with a booster at ages 16 to 18. Also get one if you're traveling to countries with high rates of meningococcal disease.


Question: Can helping my immune system keep me from getting the flu?

Answer: When it's working well, it can help you avoid illness. But if you let it get run down, you're more likely to get sick. Learn what your body's defenses do and how to strengthen them so you can boost your odds of staying well.


Question: What vaccines should adults get?

Answer: They help fend off common ailments like the flu or a cold, and protect you against major illnesses like cancer or heart disease. Update your tetanus vaccine once every 10 years. If you have a high-risk job (like hospital worker) get vaccines for hepatitis A and B. Also get one if you're traveling to countries with high rates of meningococcal disease.


Question: How can stress in your life affect your immune system?

Answer: Relaxation techniques, daily exercise, and stress-management techniques can all help. It helps keep threats out of your body -- and zaps any that do get in.


Question: What are the symptoms of emphysema?

Answer: As you get older, your lungs slowly lose function -- even if you don't smoke. In addition to shortness of breath, you may also have: Wheezing A cough that won't go away Chest tightness or pain Many times, smoking causes a persistent cough.


Question: What is scotoma?

Answer: This is another type of vision change that may occur as part of a migraine aura. A scotoma means a loss of vision.


Question: How long do the symptoms of familial hemiplegic migraines last?

Answer: The episodes of muscle weakness and movement abnormalities can last for hours or days. In some cases, people can become comatose during the migraine.


Question: What is photopsia/fortification spectra?

Answer: The vision changes that can occur during an aura may involve a complex array of lights and images that appear before your eyes. Photopsia is the medical term for flashes of light. Fortification spectra are more complicated images that can float in your vision during a migraine. These get their name from their resemblance to an aerial view of an intricately built fort.


Question: What is photosensitivity?

Answer: During a migraine, being around sunlight or artificial light may make you feel even more uncomfortable. This is called photosensitivity. Another term that is sometimes used to describe this problem is photophobia.


Question: What are photopsia and fortification spectra?

Answer: The vision changes that can occur during an aura may involve a complex array of lights and images that appear before your eyes. Photopsia is the medical term for flashes of light. Fortification spectra are more complicated images that can float in your vision during a migraine. These get their name from their resemblance to an aerial view of an intricately built fort.


Question: What is a familial hemiplegic migraine?

Answer: This is a rare type of migraine with an aura that includes muscle weakness. During the attack, people with this form of migraine have trouble moving their body. The severity can range from muscle weakness to a total inability to move. The muscle weakness is fully reversible. This type of migraine is often mistaken for epilepsy. People may feel confused during these attacks.


Question: What is vertigo?

Answer: This is the sense that you're spinning (or the world around you is spinning) when you're really not. People often use this word to mean dizziness, but these words really describe different things. Dizziness may involve a sense of light-headedness or trouble keeping your balance.


Question: Are familial hemiplegic migraines hereditary?

Answer: Familial hemiplegic migraine can run in families. In patients with familial hemiplegic migraine, at least one first- or second-degree relative may have this type of migraine. Experts have linked the disorder to a number of genetic mutations.


Question: What is tyramine?

Answer: Learning a few new words may help you better understand and describe your symptoms. In some cases, people can become comatose during the migraine.


Question: What are the typical symptoms of an aura?

Answer: Sensory: numbness, tingling, or pins-and-needles feeling in the body. Some people may have only one of these symptoms of an aura. Other people may experience one after another during a migraine attack.


Question: How do auras relate to migraines?

Answer: In one study that asked people with basilar migraine about their symptoms, 5% had ataxia. A typical aura has symptoms that may be: Visual changes such as flickering lights, spots or lines, loss of vision. Sensory: numbness, tingling, or pins-and-needles feeling in the body. Speech: difficulty speaking or understanding words. The symptoms develop gradually, last no longer than one hour, and are completely reversible. Some people may have only one of these symptoms of an aura. Other people may experience one after another during a migraine attack.


Question: What clothes should your child wear if they have a heat rash and it's hot outside?

Answer: Dress your child in soft, lightweight, cotton clothing to help absorb moisture.


Question: Should you call the doctor if your child gets a heat rash?

Answer: Heat rash in young children can look uncomfortable, but it's usually not serious. The rash is red or purple or looks like bruises. The child has a fever.


Question: Does a migraine headache have various stages?

Answer: A migraine can be complicated, with symptoms that change over hours or even days. They tend to move through several stages: Prodromal phase (before the migraine) Aura phase Attack phase Postdromal phase (after the migraine) Hours before the migraine begins -- and sometimes even the day before -- many people may feel: Either unusually energetic and excitable or depressed Irritable Thirsty Cravings for specific foods Sleepy, with a lot of yawning The need to pee more often In some cases, these symptoms before the headache can help doctors diagnose the problem as a migraine.


Question: What characterizes the pain of a migraine?

Answer: Tends to feel throbbing May throb worse during physical activity or when you lean forward May get worse if you move around Other symptoms that might happen during this phase: Unusual sensitivity to light, sounds, and smells Lightheadedness and fainting Nausea and vomiting Following the most severe phase of the migraine, you may not feel well for up to a day.


Question: What is the postdromal phase of a migraine?

Answer: Tends to feel throbbing May throb worse during physical activity or when you lean forward May get worse if you move around Other symptoms that might happen during this phase: Unusual sensitivity to light, sounds, and smells Lightheadedness and fainting Nausea and vomiting Following the most severe phase of the migraine, you may not feel well for up to a day. Symptoms of this post-migraine phase may include: Extreme tiredness Sluggishness Confusion Head pain that flares up when you lean over, move quickly, or get a rush of blood to the head Your migraines may change over time, including how often they happen and how severe they are. Attacks may not always include all of these stages. Also, you may eventually get the migraine aura without having a headache.


Question: What language problems occur during the aura phase of a migraine?

Answer: You may have a hard time communicating with others. Symptoms may include: Trouble expressing thoughts when you speak or write Trouble understanding spoken or written words Confusion Trouble concentrating The attack portion of a migraine can last from a few hours to several days.


Question: What skin sensations accompany an aura?

Answer: You might feel tingling or "pins and needles" in your body during an aura. It may also cause numbness. These feelings often affect the face and hands, but they can spread out across the body. They may continue to expand over the next several minutes.


Question: What are signs of the prodromal phase in migraines?

Answer: They tend to move through several stages: Prodromal phase (before the migraine) Aura phase Attack phase Postdromal phase (after the migraine) Hours before the migraine begins -- and sometimes even the day before -- many people may feel: Either unusually energetic and excitable or depressed Irritable Thirsty Cravings for specific foods Sleepy, with a lot of yawning The need to pee more often In some cases, these symptoms before the headache can help doctors diagnose the problem as a migraine.


Question: How can the aura phase in migraines change your vision?

Answer: An aura can include: Changes in vision, such as: A flickering, jagged arc of light. It may have a complicated shape. It usually appears on the left or right side of your vision. Over a few minutes, it may get bigger. A blind spot in your field of vision. This problem -- combined with the flickering lights -- can make it hard to drive or focus your eyes on small objects. You might "see" images from the past or have hallucinations. These symptoms may continue to get worse over the next several minutes.


Question: How many people get auras with their migraines?

Answer: About 1 in 3 to 1 in 4 people with migraines get an "aura" that begins before the headache or starts along with it. It may not happen with every headache, though.


Question: What are the symptoms of the attack phase in migraines?

Answer: The pain of a migraine: Usually begins above the eyes Typically affects one side of the head, but it may happen to the entire head or move from one side to the other. It may also affect the lower face and the neck. Tends to feel throbbing May throb worse during physical activity or when you lean forward May get worse if you move around Other symptoms that might happen during this phase: Unusual sensitivity to light, sounds, and smells Lightheadedness and fainting Nausea and vomiting Following the most severe phase of the migraine, you may not feel well for up to a day.


Question: What skin sensations occur during the aura phase in migraines?

Answer: You might feel tingling or "pins and needles" in your body during an aura. It may also cause numbness. These feelings often affect the face and hands, but they can spread out across the body. They may continue to expand over the next several minutes.


Question: How may the symptoms of your migraines change over time?

Answer: Symptoms of this post-migraine phase may include: Extreme tiredness Sluggishness Confusion Head pain that flares up when you lean over, move quickly, or get a rush of blood to the head Your migraines may change over time, including how often they happen and how severe they are. Attacks may not always include all of these stages. Also, you may eventually get the migraine aura without having a headache.


Question: What are the symptoms of the postdromal phase in migraines?

Answer: Tends to feel throbbing May throb worse during physical activity or when you lean forward May get worse if you move around Other symptoms that might happen during this phase: Unusual sensitivity to light, sounds, and smells Lightheadedness and fainting Nausea and vomiting Following the most severe phase of the migraine, you may not feel well for up to a day. Symptoms of this post-migraine phase may include: Extreme tiredness Sluggishness Confusion Head pain that flares up when you lean over, move quickly, or get a rush of blood to the head Your migraines may change over time, including how often they happen and how severe they are.


Question: What are the symptoms of the prodromal stage of a migraine headache?

Answer: They tend to move through several stages: Prodromal phase (before the migraine) Aura phase Attack phase Postdromal phase (after the migraine) Hours before the migraine begins -- and sometimes even the day before -- many people may feel: Either unusually energetic and excitable or depressed Irritable Thirsty Cravings for specific foods Sleepy, with a lot of yawning The need to pee more often In some cases, these symptoms before the headache can help doctors diagnose the problem as a migraine.


Question: How long the does the attack phase of migraines last?

Answer: Symptoms may include: Trouble expressing thoughts when you speak or write Trouble understanding spoken or written words Confusion Trouble concentrating The attack portion of a migraine can last from a few hours to several days. During this phase, you'll probably want to rest quietly and find it hard to do your normal activities.


Question: What language problems accompany an aura?

Answer: It may have a complicated shape. Symptoms may include: Trouble expressing thoughts when you speak or write Trouble understanding spoken or written words Confusion Trouble concentrating The attack portion of a migraine can last from a few hours to several days.


Question: What are the phases of migraines?

Answer: They tend to move through several stages: Prodromal phase (before the migraine) Aura phase Attack phase Postdromal phase (after the migraine) Hours before the migraine begins -- and sometimes even the day before -- many people may feel: Either unusually energetic and excitable or depressed Irritable Thirsty Cravings for specific foods Sleepy, with a lot of yawning The need to pee more often In some cases, these symptoms before the headache can help doctors diagnose the problem as a migraine. Symptoms may include: Trouble expressing thoughts when you speak or write Trouble understanding spoken or written words Confusion Trouble concentrating The attack portion of a migraine can last from a few hours to several days.


Question: What is the aura stage of a migraine headache?

Answer: About 1 in 3 to 1 in 4 people with migraines get an "aura" that begins before the headache or starts along with it. It may not happen with every headache, though. Skin sensations.


Question: What will happen when you go to your doctor's office regarding drug allergies?

Answer: A physical exam : Your doctor will carefully check you -- especially your skin -- to see if you have a rash or hives. Some questions: Your doctor will want details about the medicines you've been using, your symptoms, and your health. Blood tests: If you've had a serious skin reaction, your doctor may ask for these to check how your organs are working and to see if there are any other signs of an allergic reaction. Other tests: Depending on your case, your doctor may need to see some other things, like a chest X-ray. Treatment: If your symptoms are severe, your doctor will give you medicine to help control the reaction.


Question: How can I take care of myself when I have a drug allergy?

Answer: The slow increase may get your body more used to the drug and lower your risk of an allergic reaction. Make sure that all of your doctors, dentists, and pharmacists know about your drug allergy. Get a medical ID bracelet or necklace with your drug allergy on it. Always wear it. Know what to do if you have an allergic reaction . If your doctor prescribes medication for emergencies, like an Epi Pen, make sure you always carry two and you know how to use it.


Question: Who is most likely to get fungal nail infection?

Answer: Because the toes and feet are often exposed to damp, warm areas, where the infection is spread, fungal nail infections affect the toes more than the fingers. Your feet are also more likely to be exposed to fungal infections if you: Spend time at swimming pools Walk around a lot in locker rooms Wear the same pair of damp, sweaty sneakers all the time Injure your toenail At first, you may have no outward symptoms.


Question: What are signs of fungal nail infection?

Answer: If your toenails are cracked, discolored, thicker than they should be or painful, you may wonder if you have a fungal nail infection.


Question: How common are fungal nail infections?

Answer: Fungus is the cause of up to half of all nail infections. It's very common among adults 60 and older -- about 3 out of 4 seniors have the problem, while only 1 of 5 younger adults are affected. You can get a fungal nail infection on your fingernail as well, but it's much more likely to show up on your toenails.


Question: How are toenail fungus and type 2 diabetes related?

Answer: If you have type 2 diabetes, you should take nail fungus very seriously. Toenail fungus is twice as common in diabetic feet, and severe cases of it along with complications can lead to amputations. Always see your doctor if you're diabetic and you notice any problem with your nails.


Question: What tests can diagnose fungal nail infection?

Answer: Your doctor may be able to tell that you have a fungal nail infection just by looking at your toes or your fingers. But he may do some tests to be sure. He may decide to take a sample of your nails. The clippings can be tested to see if fungus is in them. If you do have nail fungus, you and your doctor will decide what treatment is best for you.


Question: How can I avoid fungal nail infection?

Answer: It's worth the extra bit of time and effort to keep them fungus-free: Keep your hands and feet clean and dry. Keep your nails trimmed short. Cut your toenails straight across. Don't walk barefoot in locker rooms or on pool decks. Change your socks and shoes when your feet get sweaty. Have more than one pair of sneakers so your sweaty pair can dry out before you wear them again.


Question: What are symptoms of tetanus that need immediate medical attention?

Answer: Go to a medical clinic or hospital emergency room for tetanus symptoms: rigid muscles and painful spasms, often starting in jaw and neck.


Question: How can I start exercising to maintain a healthy heart?

Answer: First, think about what you'd like to do and how fit you are. What sounds like fun? Would you rather work out on your own, with a trainer, or in a class? Do you want to exercise at home or at a gym? If you want to do something that's harder than what you can do right now, no problem. You can set a goal and build up to it. For example, if you want to run, you might start by walking and then add bursts of jogging into your walks. Gradually start running for longer than you walk. Don't forget to check in with your doctor. He'll make sure you're ready for whatever activity you have in mind and let you know about any limits on what you can do.


Question: Why is it important to exercise to keep a healthy heart?

Answer: It's never too late to start exercising, and you don't have to be an athlete. Once you get going, you'll find it pays off. People who don't exercise are almost twice as likely to get heart disease as people who are active. That amounts to about 30 minutes a day at least 5 days a week. You don't have to do the same exact thing every time.


Question: Are there any exercise precautions to take for a healthy heart?

Answer: Would you rather work out on your own, with a trainer, or in a class? You're moving fast enough to raise your heart rate and breathe harder, but you should still be able to talk to someone while you're doing it. Let your muscles recover for a day between sessions. That fades as your body gets used to it. Soon, you might be surprised to find that you like how you feel when you're done.


Question: Why is oral health so important?

Answer: Nearly 9 in10 diseases can cause symptoms in your mouth. That puts your dentist on the front line for spotting serious health conditions developing silently in your body. This is one reason it's so important to see your dentist at least two times a year for dental cleanings and checkups.


Question: How can bad breath (halitosis) be a sign of another health problem?

Answer: Excessive vomiting, such as seen with bulimia, can lead to other oral health issues such as: Dry mouth Dry and cracked lips Loss of tooth enamel Sensitive teeth Swollen salivary glands Bad breath can result from a dry mouth or the foods and drinks you consume. But gum disease and gingivitis can also contribute to the annoying recurrence of bad breath. Beyond your teeth and gums, bad breath that persists can result from certain underlying health problems that require immediate medical attention.


Question: How can bleeding and sore gums be a sign of another health problem?

Answer: Gums that ache or bleed may be the result of gum disease that is getting worse. Gum disease is often more severe in people with underlying conditions such as diabetes, which reduces the body's resistance to infection. This puts your gums at risk for inflammation due to the bacteria that live in plaque. Other oral signs of diabetes include: Dry mouth Fruity smelling breath Oral fungal infections Teeth that move or fall out unexpectedly are a sign of advanced gum disease.


Question: What are some warning signs that show  symptoms in your mouth?

Answer: Symptoms to look out for include: Gum, tooth, or jaw pain Bleeding gums Loose or lost teeth Recurring bad breath Sores, irregular patches, or lumps in your mouth If you notice any of these signs, see your dentist right away. Your dentist can diagnose specific dental issues that may be developing. Or she can refer you to another health care professional for further evaluation and treatment.


Question: How can loose or lost teeth be a sign of another health problem?

Answer: Other oral signs of diabetes include: Dry mouth Fruity smelling breath Oral fungal infections Teeth that move or fall out unexpectedly are a sign of advanced gum disease. Tooth loss can also be one of the early signs of osteoporosis, which decreases bone density and weakens your bones. By seeing your dentist regularly, eating a well-balanced diet, and getting regular physical activity, you can get the jump on being diagnosed and treated before any serious injuries occur.


Question: How can changes in tooth surfaces and enamel be a sign of another health problem?

Answer: Along with symptoms such as cold sores, jaw and mouth pain are often signs of stress. Excessive vomiting, such as seen with bulimia, can lead to other oral health issues such as: Dry mouth Dry and cracked lips Loss of tooth enamel Sensitive teeth Swollen salivary glands Bad breath can result from a dry mouth or the foods and drinks you consume.


Question: How can someone with erythrodermic psoriasis soothe their skin from the outside?

Answer: To soothe your skin from the outside, you can use: Steroid cream or ointment moisturizers Wet wraps Oatmeal baths Other treatments. You may also need: Antibiotics to help prevent infection Pain medication Drugs to control itching Medications to relieve anxiety Some risk factors can't be avoided, like a family history of psoriasis.


Question: What can trigger erythrodermic psoriasis?

Answer: It can appear if you suddenly stop taking your oral psoriasis medication. Other triggers include: Alcoholism Drug reaction HIV Infection Oral steroid medicine Severe sunburn Stress Your doctor will start by asking about your health history and doing a physical exam.


Question: What treatments are used to treat erythrodermic psoriasis?

Answer: Treatment depends on how bad your symptoms are and whether you have other health problems. You may be prescribed a combination of one or more drugs: Cyclosporine ( Sandimmune), infliximab ( Remicade), or infliximab-abda ( Renflexis) and infliximab-dyyb ( Inflectra), may be the first line of defense. They work by stopping the attack of out-of-control immune cells. Your doctor may also prescribe acitretin ( Soriatane) or methotrexate to control cell growth. You might also take an immune-suppressing drug, such as adalimumab ( Humira), adalimumab-atto ( Amjevita), brodalumab ( Siliq), etanercept ( Enbrel), etanercept-szzs ( Erelzi), guselkumab ( Tremfya), ixekizumab ( Talz), secukinumab ( Cosentyx), or ustekinumab ( Stelara).


Question: Which drugs help treat erythrodermic psoriasis?

Answer: Treatment depends on how bad your symptoms are and whether you have other health problems. You may be prescribed a combination of one or more drugs: Cyclosporine ( Sandimmune), infliximab ( Remicade), or infliximab-abda ( Renflexis) and infliximab-dyyb ( Inflectra), may be the first line of defense. They work by stopping the attack of out-of-control immune cells. Your doctor may also prescribe acitretin ( Soriatane) or methotrexate to control cell growth. You might also take an immune-suppressing drug, such as adalimumab ( Humira), adalimumab-atto ( Amjevita), brodalumab ( Siliq), etanercept ( Enbrel), etanercept-szzs ( Erelzi), guselkumab ( Tremfya), ixekizumab ( Talz), secukinumab ( Cosentyx), or ustekinumab ( Stelara). These medicines are powerful and can have many side effects. Talk to your doctor to find out if they're right for you. Make sure she's aware of any other medical conditions you have or any other medications you take.


Question: What does erythrodermic psoriasis look like?

Answer: Fiery red skin from head to toe is the main symptom. Your skin is also covered in scales and peels off in large pieces. It can be very painful and itchy. You might see tiny blisters called pustules that are filled with pus. Symptoms can develop over time, but they can come on suddenly, too.


Question: What are some symptoms of erythrodermic psoriasis?

Answer: You also may have: Chills or fever Joint pain Rapid heartbeat Swollen ankles Your skin is important to your overall health.


Question: What are the symptoms of erythrodermic psoriasis?

Answer: Fiery red skin from head to toe is the main symptom. Your skin is also covered in scales and peels off in large pieces. It can be very painful and itchy. You might see tiny blisters called pustules that are filled with pus. Symptoms can develop over time, but they can come on suddenly, too. You also may have: Chills or fever Joint pain Rapid heartbeat Swollen ankles Your skin is important to your overall health.


Question: Why is erythrodermic psoriasis dangerous?

Answer: It helps control your body temperature, keeps germs and toxins out, and holds moisture in. Erythrodermic psoriasis throws all this off, and the results can be life-threatening. They include a dangerously low body temperature (hypothermia), the loss of much-needed proteins and fluids, and severe illnesses like sepsis and pneumonia. If you lose too much fluid, your heart won't have enough blood to pump. That can lead to shock, kidney failure, and heart failure.


Question: How is erythrodermic psoriasis treated?

Answer: You're more likely to get erythrodermic psoriasis if you already have plaque psoriasis, especially if it's unstable. Doctors will try to stop the flare-up as quickly as possible and protect you from complications.


Question: How can endometrial atrophy cause postmenopausal bleeding?

Answer: Endometrial atrophy (thinning of the uterine lining): The endometrium is the tissue that lines your uterus. It responds to hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Low hormone levels after menopause can cause it to get too thin. This may trigger bleeding.


Question: How can vaginal atrophy cause postmenopausal bleeding?

Answer: Vaginal atrophy (thinning of vaginal tissue): Estrogen helps to keep this tissue healthy. After menopause, low estrogen levels can cause your vaginal walls to become thin, dry, and inflamed. That often leads to bleeding after sex.


Question: How is hysteroscopy used to treat postmenopausal bleeding?

Answer: Hysteroscopy: This procedure can remove polyps. Doctors also use it to remove thickened parts of the uterine lining caused by endometrial hyperplasia. She'll insert a hysteroscope into your vagina and pass tiny surgical tools through the tube.


Question: How can polyps cause post-menopausal bleeding?

Answer: A number of conditions may lead to postmenopausal bleeding: Polyps: These tissue growths show up inside your uterus or cervical canal, or on your cervix. They're usually not cancer, but they can cause spotting, heavy bleeding, or bleeding after sex.


Question: How are radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy used to treat postmenopausal bleeding?

Answer: Your doctor will prescribe one based on what type of cancer you have and what stage it's in. The years before menopause are called perimenopause.


Question: Is bleeding during perimenopause normal?

Answer: D& C (dilation and curettage): During this procedure, the doctor opens your cervix. Your period may be heavier or lighter than usual. You may also have spotting. That's normal. You should also get checked out if you bleed after sex or more often than every 3 weeks.


Question: What are the treatments for psoriasis and depression?

Answer: For example, some drugs doctors use to treat psoriasis -- like adalimumab ( Humira), etanercept ( Enbrel), or ustekinumab ( Stelara) -- also can help with symptoms of depression. And there's evidence that some antidepressant drugs can help with psoriasis. In studies, paroxetine ( Paxil) and escitalopram ( Lexapro) eased both depression and psoriasis symptoms. A technique called cognitive behavioral therapy ( CBT) is another way to manage the feelings psoriasis can bring on. CBT helps you change the negative thoughts that make you depressed. And mind-body techniques like meditation also can help you control your negative emotions.


Question: What are some side effects of psoriasis?

Answer: Psoriasis is uncomfortable. Psoriasis plaques itch, burn, crack, and bleed. Up to 42% of people with psoriasis also have the swollen, painful joints of psoriatic arthritis. Living with these uncomfortable symptoms can make you more likely to be depressed.


Question: Why does psoriasis make someone feel depressed?

Answer: There are several reasons for the link between psoriasis and depression: Psoriasis can be embarrassing. The most obvious reason psoriasis makes you feel down is what it does to your skin. The red, scaly patches can be hard to hide, especially in the summer. People around you might treat you differently because they don't understand what psoriasis is or they think it's contagious. Surveys show that 1 in 5 people with psoriasis have faced rejection and felt unwelcome at times because of their condition.


Question: What is the link between psoriasis and depression?

Answer: There are ways to treat both depression and psoriasis that can help clear up your skin and boost your mood. Psoriasis is uncomfortable. Psoriasis affects your brain chemicals.


Question: When should I take my child to the hospital about flu?

Answer: Get emergency care if your child: Has blue skin or lips Has serious or constant throwing up or stomach pain Has trouble breathing or is breathing fast Isn't drinking enough Is very irritable Is very sleepy, not waking, or not interacting with you Has symptoms that improve and then get worse


Question: What's the cure for flu?

Answer: Your doctor may suggest antiviral drugs to help your child feel better quicker.


Question: How does flu spread among children?

Answer: The flu spreads quickly in tight quarters, so schools and nurseries tend to be breeding grounds for these viruses. Your child may catch one if he gets close to a sick person who is coughing or sneezing. Or he might handle infected items like doorknobs, pens, pencils, or toys, and then touch his eyes, nose, or mouth. Children have a higher chance of getting a flu virus, because their immune systems aren't as developed as adults'.


Question: How long are kids contagious when they have the flu?

Answer: There are three types of viruses that cause it: types A, B, and C. The two that cause the yearly epidemics are influenza A and B. Most kids get better within a week, but they may still feel weak for up to a month.


Question: How do I get rid of dust mites in my bedroom?

Answer: These microscopic bugs can trigger allergies and asthma. They can often be found living in your bedding. You can take some steps to get rid of them: Put dust-mite-proof covers on pillows, comforters, mattresses, and box springs. Wash your blankets, sheets, and pillowcases every week in water that is at least 130 F. Dry everything in a hot dryer.


Question: How can roaches in bedrooms cause allergies?

Answer: These microscopic bugs can trigger allergies and asthma.


Question: How can pets cause allergy problems in bedrooms?

Answer: But dander, saliva, and pee from furry animals can carry allergens. Ideally, your dog or cat should sleep somewhere else. If not, do your best to reduce dander. For example, vacuum more often.


Question: How can I keep roaches out of my home?

Answer: If your allergies act up when you're at home, your bedroom is probably one of your problem areas. Try not to leave wet towels on the floor. Roaches thrive on water. Store food in tightly sealed containers. Keep your dishes clean. Hire an exterminator if you need to.


Question: How should I choose and clean a carpet for my bedroom?

Answer: Clean it using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and a double bag every week. Wear a dust mask while you vacuum so you don't inhale dust that floats up into the air. Both can trigger upper respiratory symptoms if you have allergies or asthma. Dust mites and mold like a warm, damp room, but you probably don't.


Question: How are chordomas removed?

Answer: Your treatment will depend on: Your age Your health Size of the tumor Where the tumor is Often, doctors remove the tumor with surgery. Taking out as much of the tumor as possible and some of the tissue around it can stop it from coming back. Sometimes surgeons can't remove the whole tumor because they might damage healthy cells in your brain or spine. Radiation -- high energy X-rays -- can kill any cancer cells that are left behind after surgery. This lowers the chance that the cancer will return.


Question: What determines treatment of a chordoma?

Answer: Your treatment will depend on: Your age Your health Size of the tumor Where the tumor is Often, doctors remove the tumor with surgery.


Question: What are symptoms of chordoma of the spine?

Answer: Chordoma in the skull causes symptoms like: Abnormal eye movements Changes to your voice or speech Double vision Headache Loss of feeling and movement in your face Neck pain Trouble swallowing Chordoma of the spine causes symptoms like: Loss of control over your bowels Lump in the lower part of your back Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs Pain in your lower back Problems controlling your bladder Sometimes, chordomas in the brain can block the flow of fluid there and in the spine.


Question: How do chordomas cause issues with fluid in the brain?

Answer: Chordoma in the skull causes symptoms like: Abnormal eye movements Changes to your voice or speech Double vision Headache Loss of feeling and movement in your face Neck pain Trouble swallowing Chordoma of the spine causes symptoms like: Loss of control over your bowels Lump in the lower part of your back Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs Pain in your lower back Problems controlling your bladder Sometimes, chordomas in the brain can block the flow of fluid there and in the spine. The fluid can build up and put pressure on the brain. This is called hydrocephalus.


Question: Are there current clinical trials for chordoma?

Answer: Researchers are studying several new treatments for chordoma. They test these in clinical trials to see if they're safe and if they work. These are often a way for people to try a new therapy that isn't available to everyone. Your doctor can tell you if there's a trial that might be a good fit for you.


Question: Is it common for chordoma to return after treatment?

Answer: Still, chordoma often comes back after treatment. During the first year after your surgery, your doctor will check you with an MRI about once every 3 months to make sure it hasn't. If it does come back, you might need another surgery.


Question: How is diagnosis of a chordoma confirmed?

Answer: Chordoma is a kind of cancer that grows in the bones of your skull and spine. Your doctor will use a needle to take a small sample of cells from the tumor. A specialist will look at the cells under a microscope to see what kind of tumor you have. Your doctor might also do a blood test, a CT scan of your lungs, or a bone scan to see if the tumor has spread.


Question: How common is chordoma?

Answer: About 300 people are diagnosed with chordoma in the United States each year. Many grow in the bottom of your spine or at the base of your skull.


Question: Where do chordomas form?

Answer: From there, they can spread to other organs, like your lungs. But they usually grow slowly. Chordoma in the skull causes symptoms like: Abnormal eye movements Changes to your voice or speech Double vision Headache Loss of feeling and movement in your face Neck pain Trouble swallowing Chordoma of the spine causes symptoms like: Loss of control over your bowels Lump in the lower part of your back Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs Pain in your lower back Problems controlling your bladder Sometimes, chordomas in the brain can block the flow of fluid there and in the spine.


Question: What are the side effects of immune checkpoint inhibitors?

Answer: Some had no side effects, while others had mild to moderate side effects like diarrhea, fevers, fatigue, rashes, and nausea.


Question: How do general immunotherapies work?

Answer: Other immunotherapies work by boosting the activity of your immune system in general without targeting a tumor. A more active immune system can better fight cancer. General immunotherapies fall into a few different classes of drugs: Interleukins are a type of cytokine, a molecule produced by some immune cells to control the growth and activity of other immune cells.


Question: How does immunotherapy work?

Answer: Immunotherapy uses the natural power of your immune system to fight illnesses, including cancer. In the past few decades, it's become a key part of treatment for many different types of the disease. But not all immunotherapies work the same way. Some boost your immune system overall, while others try to teach it to attack very specific types of cells found in tumors. Each has different benefits and risks and is used in different cases.


Question: What are colony stimulating factors?

Answer: An interferon called IFN-alfa is used to treat cancers, including: Hairy cell leukemia Chronic myelogenous leukemia ( CML) Follicular non- Hodgkin's lymphoma Cutaneous (skin) T-cell lymphoma Kidney cancer Melanoma Kaposi sarcoma Colony stimulating factors strengthen your immune system by boosting the production of white blood cells in your bone marrow. This can help your immune system return to normal activity after chemotherapy.


Question: What are interleukin immunotherapies?

Answer: General immunotherapies fall into a few different classes of drugs: Interleukins are a type of cytokine, a molecule produced by some immune cells to control the growth and activity of other immune cells. A man-made version of an interleukin called IL-2 is approved to treat advanced kidney cancer and metastatic melanoma. Researchers are studying others.


Question: How do naked monoclonal antibodies work?

Answer: Different ones work in different ways: Naked monoclonal antibodies, the most common type for cancer treatment, don't have anything attached to them. They tell your immune system to attack cancer cells or block proteins within tumors that help the cancer grow.


Question: What other drugs are used in immunotherapy?

Answer: Other drugs including imiquimod ( Zyclara), lenalidomide ( Revlimid), pomalidomide ( Pomalyst), and thalidomide ( Thalomid) kick-start immune system reactions and are used to treat some cancers.


Question: How do bispecific monoclonal antibodies work?

Answer: Bispecific monoclonal antibodies are designed to bind to two different proteins at once. Some attach to both a cancer cell and an immune system cell, helping promote immune system attacks on the cancer.


Question: How do conjugate monoclonal antibodies work?

Answer: They're called "monoclonal" antibodies. Different ones work in different ways: Naked monoclonal antibodies, the most common type for cancer treatment, don't have anything attached to them. This lowers side effects and helps treatments like chemotherapy and radiation work their best. Some attach to both a cancer cell and an immune system cell, helping promote immune system attacks on the cancer.


Question: When are monoclonal antibodies used for treatment?

Answer: They're called "monoclonal" antibodies. Most people get this type of medication through a vein. Your doctor might also pair it with other treatments like chemotherapy or hormone therapy. How often you get it depends on your cancer type. Research is underway to see how monoclonal antibodies work for many cancer types. These inhibitors treat melanoma, non-small-cell lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, head and neck cancers, stomach cancer, colorectal cancer, and Hodgkin's lymphoma.


Question: How is immunotherapy used for adoptive T cell transfer?

Answer: T cells are a type of white blood cell your immune system makes to fight disease. After chemotherapy, your doctor puts the re-engineered T cells back in your body. First, doctors will take TILs from your tumor tissue and grow a large number of them in a lab. These proteins help your TILs find and destroy cancer cells. An interferon called IFN-alfa is used to treat cancers, including: Hairy cell leukemia Chronic myelogenous leukemia ( CML) Follicular non- Hodgkin's lymphoma Cutaneous (skin) T-cell lymphoma Kidney cancer Melanoma Kaposi sarcoma Colony stimulating factors strengthen your immune system by boosting the production of white blood cells in your bone marrow.


Question: What are interferons?

Answer: General immunotherapies fall into a few different classes of drugs: Interleukins are a type of cytokine, a molecule produced by some immune cells to control the growth and activity of other immune cells. An interferon called IFN-alfa is used to treat cancers, including: Hairy cell leukemia Chronic myelogenous leukemia ( CML) Follicular non- Hodgkin's lymphoma Cutaneous (skin) T-cell lymphoma Kidney cancer Melanoma Kaposi sarcoma Colony stimulating factors strengthen your immune system by boosting the production of white blood cells in your bone marrow.


Question: What are immune checkpoint inhibitors?

Answer: If these cells have gotten inside the cancer cells, it's a sign that your body is trying to fight the cancer on its own. To keep control, your immune system has molecular brakes called checkpoints. Cancer cells sometimes take advantage of them by turning them on or off so they can hide. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are drugs designed to release these brakes and let your immune system do its job.


Question: How is immunotherapy used as a cancer vaccine?

Answer: How often you get it depends on your cancer type. But it can be any compound that's put into your body to start an immune reaction. Vaccines treat cancer by spurring your immune system to attack tumor cells. They can be made of dead cancer cells, proteins or pieces or proteins from cancer cells, or immune system cells. Researchers are working on several right now, but only one is fully approved. Sipuleucel- T ( Provenge) is used to treat advanced prostate cancer that doesn't respond to other treatments.


Question: How is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosed?

Answer: ( Most children can behave in those ways at some point or another, though.) Has a negative impact on the person's ability to function at home, in social environments, or at work. They also have to consistently display at least six of the above symptoms: For at least 6 months And in at least two settings, such as at home and in school Overall, hyperactivity tends to diminish with age.


Question: What does hyperactivity look like in toddlers and preschoolers with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: Have trouble playing quietly or doing quiet hobbies Always be "on the go" Talk excessively Toddlers and preschoolers with ADHD tend to be constantly in motion, jumping on furniture and having trouble participating in group activities that call for them to sit still. For instance, they may have a hard time listening to a story.


Question: What does hyperactivity look like in kids with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: It may vary with age. You might be able to notice it in preschoolers. ADHD symptoms nearly always show up before middle school. Kids with hyperactivity may: Fidget and squirm when seated. Get up frequently to walk or run around. Run or climb a lot when it's not appropriate. ( In teens this may seem like restlessness.) Have trouble playing quietly or doing quiet hobbies Always be "on the go" Talk excessively Toddlers and preschoolers with ADHD tend to be constantly in motion, jumping on furniture and having trouble participating in group activities that call for them to sit still.


Question: What does inattention look like in someone with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: You might not notice it until a child goes to school. In adults, it may be easier to notice at work or in social situations. The person might procrastinate, not complete tasks like homework or chores, or frequently move from one uncompleted activity to another. They might also: Be disorganized Lack focus Have a hard time paying attention to details and a tendency to make careless mistakes. Their work might be messy and seem careless. Have trouble staying on topic while talking, not listening to others, and not following social rules Be forgetful about daily activities (for example, missing appointments, forgetting to bring lunch) Be easily distracted by things like trivial noises or events that are usually ignored by others.


Question: How can you know if someone has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: There are three groups of symptoms: Inattention Hyperactivity Impulsivity Get the facts on all of them, and learn examples of behaviors that can come with each.


Question: Do they symptoms of ADHD go away with age?

Answer: They also have to consistently display at least six of the above symptoms: For at least 6 months And in at least two settings, such as at home and in school Overall, hyperactivity tends to diminish with age. But inattention tends to last into adulthood.


Question: When is inattention usually noticed in someone with ADHD?

Answer: You might not notice it until a child goes to school. In adults, it may be easier to notice at work or in social situations.


Question: Does treatment help children with ADHD symptoms?

Answer: And a great many children with ADHD ultimately adjust. Some -- about 20% to 30% -- have learning problems that ADHD treatment may not help, though.


Question: What does hyperactivity look like in school-age children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: School-age children have similar habits, but you may notice those less often. They are unable to stay seated, squirm a lot, fidget, or talk a lot.


Question: How do kids with hyperactivity behave?

Answer: Kids with hyperactivity may: Fidget and squirm when seated. Get up frequently to walk or run around. Run or climb a lot when it's not appropriate. ( In teens this may seem like restlessness.) Have trouble playing quietly or doing quiet hobbies Always be "on the go" Talk excessively Toddlers and preschoolers with ADHD tend to be constantly in motion, jumping on furniture and having trouble participating in group activities that call for them to sit still.


Question: What does impulsivity look like in someone with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: Symptoms of this include: Impatience Having a hard time waiting to talk or react The person might: Have a hard time waiting for their turn.


Question: What does hyperactivity look like in adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: ( In teens this may seem like restlessness.) Have trouble playing quietly or doing quiet hobbies Always be "on the go" Talk excessively Toddlers and preschoolers with ADHD tend to be constantly in motion, jumping on furniture and having trouble participating in group activities that call for them to sit still. For instance, they may have a hard time listening to a story.


Question: What is the outlook for people with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: They also have to consistently display at least six of the above symptoms: For at least 6 months And in at least two settings, such as at home and in school Overall, hyperactivity tends to diminish with age. But inattention tends to last into adulthood. Treatment can help.


Question: When is hyperactivity usually noticed in someone with ADHD?

Answer: It may vary with age. You might be able to notice it in preschoolers.


Question: What are the signs that someone is inattentive and may have ADHD?

Answer: The person might procrastinate, not complete tasks like homework or chores, or frequently move from one uncompleted activity to another. They might also: Be disorganized Lack focus Have a hard time paying attention to details and a tendency to make careless mistakes. Their work might be messy and seem careless. Have trouble staying on topic while talking, not listening to others, and not following social rules Be forgetful about daily activities (for example, missing appointments, forgetting to bring lunch) Be easily distracted by things like trivial noises or events that are usually ignored by others.


Question: What is the long-term outlook for children who are not treated for ADHD?

Answer: Hyperactivity can show up as feelings of restlessness in teens and adults. A child with hyperactive behavior may get symptoms of other disruptive disorders, like oppositional-defiant disorder. These children are especially at risk to be more likely to drop out of school. If you're concerned, talk to your or your child's doctor about your treatment options. Medications, behavioral therapy, and other tactics can help.


Question: How do children with impulsive tendencies differ from children with ADHD?

Answer: Symptoms of this include: Impatience Having a hard time waiting to talk or react The person might: Have a hard time waiting for their turn. But in children with the disorder they happen a lot -- at home and school, or when visiting with friends. They also mess with the child's ability to function like other children who are the same age or developmental level.


Question: What should you know about seizures in children?

Answer: Here is a simplified explanation: Your brain is made up of billions of nerve cells called neurons, which communicate with one another through tiny electrical impulses. A seizure occurs when a large number of the cells send out an electrical charge at the same time. This abnormal and intense wave of electricity overwhelms the brain and results in a seizure, which can cause muscle spasms, a loss of consciousness, strange behavior, or other symptoms. Anyone can have a seizure under certain circumstances. For instance, a fever, lack of oxygen, head trauma, or illness could bring on a seizure. People are diagnosed with epilepsy when they have seizures that occur more than once without such a specific cause. In most cases -- about seven out of 10 -- the cause of the seizures can't be identified. This type of seizure is called "idiopathic" or "cryptogenic," meaning that we don't know what causes them. The problem may be with an uncontrolled firing of neurons in the brain that triggers a seizure.


Question: What should you know about diagnosing seizures in children?

Answer: Nobody misses a grand mal (generalized tonic-clonic) seizure," says William R. Turk, MD, chief of the Neurology Division at the Nemours Children's Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. " You can't help but notice when a person falls to the ground, shakes, and sleeps for three hours." But absence or staring seizures may go unnoticed for years. Turk says you shouldn't worry if your child gazes open-mouthed at cartoons on TV, or stares out the window in the car. Most kids who appear to be daydreaming really are just daydreaming. Instead, watch for spells that come at inappropriate times, such as when your child is in the middle of speaking or doing something, and suddenly stops. Other kinds of seizures, such as simple or complex partial seizures, can be mistaken for different conditions, such as migraines, psychological illness, or even drug or alcohol intoxication. Medical tests are an important part of diagnosing seizures. Your child's doctor will certainly do a physical exam and blood tests. The doctor may also order an EEG to check the electrical activity in the brain, or request a brain scan such as an MRI with a specific epilepsy protocol.


Question: What are the long-term effects of seizures on the brain?

Answer: In the past, most scientists thought that seizures did not cause any damage to the brain, attributing brain damage in an individual to an underlying illness. Now, however, some doubts are beginning to emerge. Solomon L. Moshe, MD, director of Clinical Neurophysiology and Child Neurology at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, is researching the subject and remains cautious. " I don't think it's good to say one way or another whether seizures do long-term damage," he says. " I think it all depends on the individual case." Moshe notes that the brains of children are very flexible. They are perhaps the least likely people with epilepsy to suffer any brain damage from a seizure.


Question: What are some dangerous seizures in children?

Answer: Status epilepticus is more common among people with epilepsy, but about one-third of the people who develop the condition have never had a seizure before. The risks of status epilepticus increase the longer the seizure goes on, which is why you should always get emergency medical help if a seizure lasts more than five minutes. You may also hear about a condition called Sudden Unexplained Death, in which a person dies for no known reason. It can happen to anyone, but it's more likely to happen in a person with epilepsy. The causes aren't known, but parents of children with epilepsy should know that it's a very rare occurrence. Controlling seizures, especially those that occur in sleep, is the most effective plan for helping to prevent this tragedy from occurring.


Question: How are seizures in children diagnosed?

Answer: Diagnosing a seizure can be tricky. Seizures are over so quickly that your doctor probably will never see your child having one. The first thing a doctor needs to do is rule out other conditions, such as nonepileptic seizures. These may resemble seizures, but are often caused by other factors such as drops in blood sugar or pressure, changes in heart rhythm, or emotional stress.


Question: What research is being done on seizures in children?

Answer: The research into the genetics of seizures is helping experts discover the particular ways different types of seizures occur. Eventually, this may lead to tailored treatments for each type of seizure that causes epilepsy.


Question: What can help to diagnose seizures in children?

Answer: The research into the genetics of seizures is helping experts discover the particular ways different types of seizures occur. Seizures are over so quickly that your doctor probably will never see your child having one. Also, you may want to keep a video camera handy so that you can tape your child during a seizure. This may sound like an insensitive suggestion, but a video can help the doctor enormously in making an accurate diagnosis. The causes aren't known, but parents of children with epilepsy should know that it's a very rare occurrence.


Question: What are the risks of seizures in children?

Answer: Simple partial seizures, in which a child may have a sudden, overwhelming sense of terror, are especially frightening. One of the problems with complex partial seizures, for instance, is that people have no control of their actions. They may wind up doing inappropriate or bizarre things that upset people around them. It's also possible for children to injure themselves during a seizure if they fall to the ground or hit other things around them. But the seizures themselves are usually not harmful. Although the majority of seizures aren't dangerous and don't require immediate medical attention, one kind does.


Question: How do I know if I am eligible to be covered for refractive or laser eye surgery?

Answer: Eye surgery when a patient is not only unable to wear glasses due to physical limitation (such as an allergy or deformity), but cannot wear contacts due to physical limitation (lens intolerance) Check with your insurance company to determine if you are enrolled in a plan that provides benefits. You may have to cover the costs as an out-of-pocket expense or with your flexible spending account or health savings account.


Question: What is recommended for an accurate diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults?

Answer: In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, an adult must have persistent, current symptoms that date to childhood. ADHD symptoms continue as problems into adulthood for up to half of children with ADHD. For an accurate diagnosis, the following are recommended: A history of the adult's behavior as a child An interview with the adult's life partner, parent, close friend, or other close associate A thorough physical exam that may include neurological testing Psychological testing


Question: How is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosed in children?

Answer: The diagnosis involves gathering information from several sources, including schools, caregivers, and parents. The health care provider will consider how a child's behavior compares with that of other children the same age, and he or she may use standardized rating scales to document these behaviors.


Question: How is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosed in adults?

Answer: Certain conditions that could mimic ADHD or cause the ADHD-like behaviors are: Recent major life changes (such as divorce, a death in the family, or a recent move) Undetected seizures Thyroid problems Sleep problems Anxiety Depression Lead toxicity It is not easy for a health care provider to diagnose ADHD in an adult. Sometimes, an adult will recognize the symptoms of ADHD in himself or herself when a son or daughter is diagnosed. Other times, they will seek professional help for themselves and find that their depression, anxiety, or other symptoms are related to ADHD.


Question: What are the symptoms of ADHD in children?

Answer: Some symptoms that suggest ADHD in children include inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. Many children with ADHD: Are in constant motion Squirm and fidget Make careless mistakes Often lose things Do not seem to listen Are easily distracted Do not finish tasks To diagnose ADHD, your child should also receive a full physical exam, including vision and hearing screenings.


Question: What problems may affect the lives of adults with ADHD?

Answer: In addition to symptoms of inattention and/or impulsiveness, adults with ADHD may have other problems, including: Chronic lateness and forgetfulness Anxiety Poor organizational skills Low self-esteem Employment problems Short temper Difficulty finishing a task Unthinking and immediate response; difficulty controlling behavior Restlessness If these difficulties are not managed appropriately, they can cause emotional, social, occupational and academic problems in adults.


Question: What tests are used to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: Many children with ADHD: Are in constant motion Squirm and fidget Make careless mistakes Often lose things Do not seem to listen Are easily distracted Do not finish tasks To diagnose ADHD, your child should also receive a full physical exam, including vision and hearing screenings. Also, the FDA has approved the use of the Neuropsychiatric EEG- Based Assessment Aid ( NEBA) System, a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves. The theta/beta ratio has been shown to be higher in children and adolescents with ADHD than in children without it. The scan, approved for use in those aged 6 to 17 years, is meant to be used as a part of a complete medical and psychological exam. In addition, the health care provider should take a complete medical history to screen for other conditions that may affect a child's behavior.


Question: How is ADHD diagnosed in adults?

Answer: Certain conditions that could mimic ADHD or cause the ADHD-like behaviors are: Recent major life changes (such as divorce, a death in the family, or a recent move) Undetected seizures Thyroid problems Sleep problems Anxiety Depression Lead toxicity It is not easy for a health care provider to diagnose ADHD in an adult. Sometimes, an adult will recognize the symptoms of ADHD in himself or herself when a son or daughter is diagnosed. Other times, they will seek professional help for themselves and find that their depression, anxiety, or other symptoms are related to ADHD.


Question: What are the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children?

Answer: Some symptoms that suggest ADHD in children include inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. Many children with ADHD: Are in constant motion Squirm and fidget Make careless mistakes Often lose things Do not seem to listen Are easily distracted Do not finish tasks To diagnose ADHD, your child should also receive a full physical exam, including vision and hearing screenings.


Question: What is necessary to provide for ADHD diagnosis in adults?

Answer: In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, an adult must have persistent, current symptoms that date to childhood. ADHD symptoms continue as problems into adulthood for up to half of children with ADHD. For an accurate diagnosis, the following are recommended: A history of the adult's behavior as a child An interview with the adult's life partner, parent, close friend, or other close associate A thorough physical exam that may include neurological testing Psychological testing


Question: Is there a test for ADHD?

Answer: There is no single test used to diagnose ADHD. Experts diagnose ADHD after a person has shown some or all of the symptoms on a regular basis for more than six months and in more than one setting.


Question: What medical examinations help diagnose ADHD in children?

Answer: Many children with ADHD: Are in constant motion Squirm and fidget Make careless mistakes Often lose things Do not seem to listen Are easily distracted Do not finish tasks To diagnose ADHD, your child should also receive a full physical exam, including vision and hearing screenings. Also, the FDA has approved the use of the Neuropsychiatric EEG- Based Assessment Aid ( NEBA) System, a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves. The theta/beta ratio has been shown to be higher in children and adolescents with ADHD than in children without it. The scan, approved for use in those aged 6 to 17 years, is meant to be used as a part of a complete medical and psychological exam.


Question: What other conditions do doctors screen for during a child's ADHD diagnosis?

Answer: Certain conditions that could mimic ADHD or cause the ADHD-like behaviors are: Recent major life changes (such as divorce, a death in the family, or a recent move) Undetected seizures Thyroid problems Sleep problems Anxiety Depression Lead toxicity It is not easy for a health care provider to diagnose ADHD in an adult.


Question: What conditions can mimic attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or cause attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-like behaviors?

Answer: Certain conditions that could mimic ADHD or cause the ADHD-like behaviors are: Recent major life changes (such as divorce, a death in the family, or a recent move) Undetected seizures Thyroid problems Sleep problems Anxiety Depression Lead toxicity It is not easy for a health care provider to diagnose ADHD in an adult.


Question: What other problems may adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have?

Answer: In addition to symptoms of inattention and/or impulsiveness, adults with ADHD may have other problems, including: Chronic lateness and forgetfulness Anxiety Poor organizational skills Low self-esteem Employment problems Short temper Difficulty finishing a task Unthinking and immediate response; difficulty controlling behavior Restlessness If these difficulties are not managed appropriately, they can cause emotional, social, occupational and academic problems in adults.


Question: Can you wear your fitness tracker while you swim?

Answer: Some trackers are water-resistant, so you can shower with them on, but not swim. A few specialty devices, like swimming watches, are fully waterproof. These time your laps, count strokes, and calculate speed and distance. A few trackers combine swim tracking with bike tracking, too. They're ideal for triathletes.


Question: How do fitness trackers calculate the calories I burn in a day?

Answer: Using your weight and gender, fitness devices can calculate the calories you burn in a day. The harder you exercise and the more you move throughout the day, the more calories you burn. Be aware, some devices only record the calories you burn during exercise. Others record activity all day, like washing dishes, folding laundry, and sleeping. Be sure to look for devices that ask for your weight and gender to get the most accurate results.


Question: Why should I choose a fitness tracker with sync technology?

Answer: Sync technology. Want updates on the go? Look for devices that sync wirelessly. Other devices will require you to plug into the jack on your smartphone or to your computer.


Question: How much do fitness trackers usually cost?

Answer: Cost. Most devices range from $30 to over $200. Watch for hidden expenses. A few require a monthly subscription to the web site if you want to see your data.


Question: Can fitness trackers tell you if you have a sleep disorder?

Answer: While they're not accurate enough to diagnose sleep disorders, they do give you an indicator of how much sleep you get vs. how much you toss and turn. The built-in reporting can help you spot patterns.


Question: How does an altimeter help people track their fitness?

Answer: Some devices have an altimeter to count the flights of stairs or hills you climbed. If you're a hiker or outdoor enthusiast, you'll appreciate the data you get from an altimeter. It gives a more accurate reading of how hard you're working and how many calories you've burned. You might also want to check if it will sync to fitness and food tracking apps like Lose It!


Question: How do I use a step counter as a fitness tracker?

Answer: Shop for devices that ask for the length of your footstep or âcadence.â They'll provide the most accurate information. It gives a more accurate reading of how hard you're working and how many calories you've burned.


Question: What is a heart rate monitor for exercise?

Answer: Be sure to look for devices that ask for your weight and gender to get the most accurate results. If so, monitoring your heart rate will help by gauging your exercise intensity in the moment. This information will help you know when to rev up or slow down and recover. Some devices even sense your body temperature and sweat to gauge how hard you're exercising. If you have heart problems or take certain blood pressure medicines, ask your doctor if checking your heart rate during exercise is a good way to measure your exercise intensity.


Question: How much will Medicare cost you?

Answer: With a traditional Medicare plan, there is no out-of-pocket maximum. That means that if you have a serious health issue, there's no limit to what you might have to spend for your co-insurance, which is the percentage of your medical charges that are your responsibility. Medicare Part D (remember, that's the part for prescription medicines) does have a catastrophic threshold. That means that after you spend a certain amount out-of-pocket, its catastrophic coverage kicks in. But you'll still pay 5% of the cost of any prescription drugs over that amount. If you take a high-priced drug, that could add up. Supplemental ( Medigap) policies can help you bridge the cost gap.


Question: What is Medicare?

Answer: It's a huge program with a variety of rules and options, and it can get confusing.


Question: What are the different parts of Medicare?

Answer: In addition to signing up with Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, you may need to enroll in Medicare Parts B and D -- which cover outpatient medical care and prescription drugs -- or you risk paying a penalty later. And you may need a supplemental plan for additional coverage, or to help you pay for out-of-pocket costs.


Question: What can complicate things if you have Medicare?

Answer: If you're insured with a Marketplace plan when you become eligible for Medicare, you might think you should just keep your Marketplace plan. You'd be wrong. For one thing, if you're getting a subsidy to help pay your premiums, most people won't be eligible for the subsidy once they're eligible for Medicare. ( This means you could face tax penalties if you keep it.) If you delay enrolling in Medicare Parts B or D, you'll pay a late enrollment penalty the entire time you're on Medicare. And if you miss your Medicare enrollment window the first time, you risk a gap in coverage while you wait for the sign-up window to roll around again. In most cases, you'll want to cancel your Marketplace plan and enroll in Medicare.


Question: What is a Medigap plan?

Answer: If you enroll in an original Medicare plan, a Medigap policy acts as supplemental insurance. It pays some of the costs that Medicare doesn't, such as copayments and deductibles. During your Medigap open enrollment period you can buy any Medigap policy that's available to you, regardless of your health. But after that, you may not be able to get one, and that may be a major disadvantage if something serious comes up and you need expensive services. If you chose a Medicare Advantage plan instead of original Medicare but decide you are not happy with it, you can leave the program within the first 12 months to join or return to original Medicare (known as a âtrial rightâ). If you had a Medigap policy before buying a Medicare Advantage plan or you bought the Medicare Advantage plan when you first turned 65, you will still be eligible to buy a Medigap policy.


Question: What choices do you have to make about Medicare?

Answer: Traditional Medicare isn't your only option. You can choose it ( Medicare Parts A and B) for hospital care and access to any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare. Or you can choose a Medicare Advantage plan (also called Medicare Part C), which you buy from a private insurer that provides Medicare benefits. If you choose Medicare Parts A and B (sometimes called Original Medicrae), you'll also need to choose a Part D plan if you want prescription drug coverage. You may also want to consider buying a supplemental policy known as a Medigap plan. It can help with your out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles. Some Medigap plans also have an out-of-pocket maximum, too, meaning there's an annual limit to what you'd have to pay. If you instead choose a Medicare Advantage plan, it most cases it will include prescription drug coverage so you don't have to sign up for a separate Part D plan. It may also offer additional coverage like dental or eye glasses. But you'll be limited to that insurer's network of providers, and it may cost more. If you chose a Medicare Advantage plan, you can't buy a supplemental Medigap plan.


Question: Does Medicare cover long-term care?

Answer: You can choose it ( Medicare Parts A and B) for hospital care and access to any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare. In addition to signing up with Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, you may need to enroll in Medicare Parts B and D -- which cover outpatient medical care and prescription drugs -- or you risk paying a penalty later.


Question: What should you keep in mind when signing up for Medicare?

Answer: If you instead choose a Medicare Advantage plan, it most cases it will include prescription drug coverage so you don't have to sign up for a separate Part D plan. That time starts 3 months before you turn 65, the month of your birthday, and 3 months following your birthday. Some people will automatically be enrolled in Medicae Parts A and B, but others have to sign up. If you are unsure if you are automatically enrolled, it is a good idea to check with the Social Securiy office. If you're not aitomatically enrolled and don't enroll in Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan during your open enrollment period, you will pay a penalty for enrolling at a later date. This penalty will occur every month you have Medicare. The same is true if you delay enrollment in a Part D plan for prescription drugs. So don't wait until you're sick or need costly medicine before you sign up. This penalty doesn't apply if you have coverage through your job. But since some employers may require you to enroll in Medicare, check with your HR department before you turn 65.


Question: Can you get dental and vision coverage from Medicare?

Answer: It may also offer additional coverage like dental or eye glasses. But it does cover eye exams for certain conditions, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. Hearing aids also aren't covered. You'll need supplemental insurance or a Medicare Advantage plan to help with those costs.


Question: What are examples of common benign skin tumors?

Answer: Some common benign tumors include: Warts (skin tumor resulting from a virus) Seborrheic keratoses (growths on the skin ranging from light skin color to dark brown) Nevi (skin growths such as moles or birthmarks) Dermatofibromas (scar tissue from an old bug bite or acne lesion) Lipomas (normal fat in an abnormal location, most often from a traumatic injury) What Causes Skin Cysts?


Question: What are skin tumors?

Answer: Skin cysts are non-cancerous closed pockets or pouches of tissue that are filled with fluid or other material. Skin tumors become extremely common as people get older.


Question: How can calcium help rebuild your bone after a fracture?

Answer: This mineral also helps you build strong bones, so foods and drinks rich in it can help your bone fracture heal. Adults should get between 1,000 and 1,200 milligrams of calcium each day. Your doctor will tell if you need a calcium supplement, and what amount you should take if you do. Good sources: Milk, yogurt, cheese, cottage cheese, broccoli, turnip or collard greens, kale, bok choy, soy, beans, canned tuna or salmon with bones, almond milk, and fortified cereals or juice.


Question: How can vitamin C help rebuild your bone after a fracture?

Answer: Collagen is a protein that's an important building block for bone. Vitamin C helps your body make collagen, which helps your bone fracture heal. You can get it from many tasty, fresh fruits and veggies. Aged or heated produce can lose some of its vitamin C, so go for fresh or frozen. Good sources: Citrus fruits like oranges, kiwi fruit, berries, tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, and green vegetables.


Question: How can protein help rebuild your bone after a fracture?

Answer: About half your bone's structure is made of this. When you have a fracture, your body needs it to build new bone for the repair. It also helps your body take in and use calcium, another key nutrient for healthy bones. Good sources: Meat, fish, milk, cheese, cottage cheese, yogurt, nuts, seeds, beans, soy products, and fortified cereals.