Question: How is salmonella diagnosed?

Answer: Diagnosis and Tests Your doctor may want you to have blood tests, or he might want a stool sample. Sometimes, the doctor may want to do further testing to help figure the exact kind of bacteria you have. This can help health officials trace the source if there is an outbreak in your area.


Question: How can I prevent salmonella infection?

Answer: Even though salmonella can hide in a variety of foods, you can do a lot of things yourself to help ensure the sneaky bacteria doesn't invade your gut: Avoid eating raw or barely cooked eggs. Don't eat raw or undercooked beef, pork, or poultry. Refrigerate food properly, both before cooking it and after serving it. Wash your hands well with soap and warm water before, and after, handling food. Keep kitchen surfaces clean before preparing food on them. Do not mix cooked food with raw food or use the same utensils to prepare them â for example, don't use the same knife to slice mushrooms that you used to cut raw chicken, and use different plates or cutting boards to slice them on. Cook each kind of meat to its correct minimum temperature. Wash your hands with soap and water after touching animals, their toys, and their bedding. Wash raw fruits and vegetables well, and peel them if possible.


Question: When should I call a doctor about a salmonella infection?

Answer: But if you still are having symptoms more than a week after first getting the infection, you might want to see a doctor. If a young child, older adult, or person with a weakened immune system has an infection, they should see a doctor if they have any of these symptoms for more than a couple of days: Bloody stools Dehydration Ongoing high fever.


Question: What are the symptoms of salmonella infection?

Answer: Most of the symptoms you'll have from a salmonella infection will be stomach-related: Cramps in your stomach Bloody stools Diarrhea Cold and chills Fever Headache Sick to your stomach Throwing up Even though most symptoms usually don't last more than a week, in some cases it can take several months for your bowel movements to get back to normal.


Question: How is salmonella infection treated in special cases?

Answer: In special cases: Infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems may need antibiotics. Doctors decide this on a case-by-case basis. There are several types of the bacteria that have become resistant, meaning they can't be stopped by antibiotics.


Question: How can I get salmonella from pets?

Answer: Some that may carry the bacteria include: Dogs Cats Birds Reptiles (such as lizards, snakes, and turtles) You or your child could pet a dog or cat and, without knowing it, touch poop hidden in fur. If you then put your fingers in your mouth, you could get an infection.


Question: How are corns treated?

Answer: Corns Don't try to cut the corn or remove it with a sharp object. After you take a bath or shower, while your skin is still soft, use a pumice stone or an emery board to smooth and gently remove the build-up of tissue. Move the emery board or pumice stone in one direction only. You can also use cushioned or medicated pads.


Question: How are calluses treated?

Answer: Calluses Don't try to cut the callus or remove it with a sharp object. After your bath or shower, use a pumice stone to gently remove the build-up of tissue. You can use cushioned pads, donut pads and insoles to keep the pressure off the callus area. Your health care provider may prescribe medications to soften the calluses.


Question: What are blisters and how do they form?

Answer: Blisters: A blister is a bubble on the skin surface that often contains a clear liquid, although it may also contain blood or pus. Blisters can form when the skin is repeatedly rubbed; for instance, when your shoes rub the same spot on your foot, when you wear shoes that don't fit properly, or when you wear shoes without socks.


Question: How can blisters, corns, and calluses be prevented?

Answer: Blisters can form when the skin is repeatedly rubbed; for instance, when your shoes rub the same spot on your foot, when you wear shoes that don't fit properly, or when you wear shoes without socks.


Question: What is a callus and what causes it?

Answer: Callus: A callus is a build-up of hard skin, usually on the underside of the foot. Calluses are caused by an uneven distribution of weight, generally on the bottom of the forefoot or heel. Calluses also can be caused by improperly fitting shoes or by a skin abnormality. It's normal to have some calluses on the soles of your feet.


Question: What can help your chances of getting pregnant if you have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Answer: Symptoms include: No periods, irregular periods, or irregular bleeding No ovulation or irregular ovulation Obesity or weight gain (although thin women may have PCOS) Insulin resistance (an indicator of prediabetes) High blood pressure Abnormal cholesterol with high triglycerides Excess hair growth on the body and face (hirsutism) Acne or oily skin Thinning hair or male-pattern baldness If you have PCOS and you're overweight, losing weight is one way to improve your chances of pregnancy. Your doctor also might prescribe medication to lower your insulin levels, since elevated insulin levels -- caused by your body's inability to recognize insulin -- has been found to be a common problem among many women with PCOS. Chronically elevated insulin levels can also lead to diabetes. Women with PCOS may be at higher risk for developing heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and endometrial cancer, especially if PCOS is untreated.


Question: What are other fertility drugs that help with irregular periods?

Answer: Depending on your situation, your doctor may also suggest other fertility drugs such as Gonal- F or other injectable hormones that stimulate follicles and stimulate egg development in the ovaries. These are the so-called "super-ovulation" drugs. Most of these drugs are administered by injection just under the skin. Some of these hormones may overstimulate the ovaries (causing abdominal bloating and discomfort). This can be dangerous and require hospitalization; thus, your doctor will monitor you with frequent vaginal ultrasounds and blood tests to monitor estrogen levels. About 90% of women ovulate with these drugs and between 20% and 60% become pregnant.


Question: What are symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Answer: Symptoms include: No periods, irregular periods, or irregular bleeding No ovulation or irregular ovulation Obesity or weight gain (although thin women may have PCOS) Insulin resistance (an indicator of prediabetes) High blood pressure Abnormal cholesterol with high triglycerides Excess hair growth on the body and face (hirsutism) Acne or oily skin Thinning hair or male-pattern baldness If you have PCOS and you're overweight, losing weight is one way to improve your chances of pregnancy.


Question: Can in vitro fertilization help treat polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

Answer: A procedure known as in vitro fertilization, or IVF, is another potential treatment for women with PCOS.


Question: How is clomiphene taken to help irregular periods?

Answer: You can expect to start ovulating about seven days after you've taken the last dose of clomiphene. If you don't ovulate, the dose can be increased by 50 milligrams per day each month up to 150 mg. After you've begun to ovulate, most doctors suggest taking Clomid for 3-6 months before referring to a specialist. If you haven't gotten pregnant by then, you would try a different medication or get a referral to an infertility specialist.


Question: What are things you can do to avoid bumps from blocked hair follicles?

Answer: Eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, exercise, and avoid stress to help prevent flare-ups. Ask about supplements.


Question: What are tips to relieve painful bumps from blocked hair follicles?

Answer: If your bumps get irritated and sore, try these things to feel better: Wet a washcloth in hot water. Hold this warm compress to the area for 10 minutes to bring down swelling. Or, seep a tea bag in hot water and hold it on the area for 10 minutes. If the sores are on your buttocks, try a sitz bath. Run a few inches of warm water in the tub. Sit in the water for 10 to 15 minutes. Take an over-the-counter NSAID pain reliever, such as ibuprofen.


Question: How can you treat hand and foot psoriasis?

Answer: Because you use your hands and feet so much, treatment can be a challenge. The condition can affect your ability to walk, button a shirt, hold a pencil, and do many other regular things. It's best if you act quickly and do what you can to prevent flares. Start with a visit to your doctor as soon you notice symptoms. She'll try different options until she finds the one that's right for you.


Question: What can I do to keep my nails safe if I have psoriasis?

Answer: Take some steps to keep your nails safe: Keep them short. Cover loose nails with a bandage or gloves (not latex). Don't bite your nails or use them to open things.


Question: What are the different types of treatment for hand and foot psoriasis?

Answer: Some treatments are: Medicines that go on your skin Prescription drugs in liquid or pill form Special light therapy units for palms and soles Biologic drugs that you get through an IV or as an injection Your doctor may also recommend you use super glue to seal cracks in your palms and soles. It's important to make sure you don't have an allergy to the glue before trying it. Keep your skin moisturized with lotion and drink plenty of water. When it's dry it cracks more easily, which can lead to more blisters. Skin that's hydrated can also take in on-the-skin treatment better and heal faster.


Question: What causes hand and foot psoriasis?

Answer: One type of hand and foot psoriasis is called pustular psoriasis. It gets its name from the whitish-yellow blisters, or pustules, it causes. The blisters are not contagious, but they can be painful. They can show up anywhere on your body, but mostly on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet.


Question: Can psoriasis affect my nails?

Answer: Half of all people with psoriasis have it on their nails. If you have psoriatic arthritis, you're even more likely to have symptoms there. Psoriasis can affect your nails in many ways. It can: Change the color or shape Make dents Make them thick with scale under the nail plate Chip or split Make it easier for them to fall off or lift away from the nail bed Be painful to touch Make small pits on the surface What Can I Do for My Nails?


Question: How do I treat flare-ups of psoariasis on my hands and feet?

Answer: Because you use your hands and feet so much, treatment can be a challenge. The condition can affect your ability to walk, button a shirt, hold a pencil, and do many other regular things. It's best if you act quickly and do what you can to prevent flares. Start with a visit to your doctor as soon you notice symptoms. She'll try different options until she finds the one that's right for you. Some treatments are: Medicines that go on your skin Prescription drugs in liquid or pill form Special light therapy units for palms and soles Biologic drugs that you get through an IV or as an injection Your doctor may also recommend you use super glue to seal cracks in your palms and soles. It's important to make sure you don't have an allergy to the glue before trying it. Keep your skin moisturized with lotion and drink plenty of water. When it's dry it cracks more easily, which can lead to more blisters. Skin that's hydrated can also take in on-the-skin treatment better and heal faster.


Question: What can you do to keep your nails safe from hand and foot psoriasis?

Answer: Take some steps to keep your nails safe: Keep them short. Cover loose nails with a bandage or gloves (not latex). Don't bite your nails or use them to open things. Everyday things you do for your overall health help, too. Eat well, exercise, and keep your stress levels low. All these things help your psoriasis treatments work better, so you're less likely to have a flare.


Question: What are the causes of psoriasis on the hands and feet?

Answer: One type of hand and foot psoriasis is called pustular psoriasis. It gets its name from the whitish-yellow blisters, or pustules, it causes. The blisters are not contagious, but they can be painful. They can show up anywhere on your body, but mostly on the palms of your hands and soles of your feet. They can be triggered by: Some medications Irritation from creams or ointments Too much UV light Pregnancy Steroids Infections Stress Stopping medication quickly If you smoke, you're more likely to get pustular psoriasis.


Question: What can I do to treat psoriasis on my nails?

Answer: Psoriasis affects them as they're forming, which can make it tricky to treat. In some cases, you can use an ointment to take care of a flare-up on your skin, but your thickened nail may keep those treatments from sinking in to the problem area. Instead, your doctor may recommend: Corticosteroid shots Scraping or filing the nail Removing the nails Light therapy Sometimes it goes away on its own, with no treatment.


Question: What does psoriasis on the hands and feet look like?

Answer: The skin on your hands and feet becomes red, and then blisters appear. You can also get scales around the blisters. Your palms and soles can swell, crack, and bleed. Pressure or rubbing on your hands and feet -- like from shoes that don't fit -- can make the problem worse. After the blisters burst, they might dry up or make your skin crusty and brown.


Question: Does smoking cause psoriasis on the hands and feet?

Answer: They can be triggered by: Some medications Irritation from creams or ointments Too much UV light Pregnancy Steroids Infections Stress Stopping medication quickly If you smoke, you're more likely to get pustular psoriasis. It's more common in adults than children, and women tend to get it more than men.


Question: What is an action plan for asthma?

Answer: If you don't have one already, work with your doctor to create an asthma action plan. This is something you talk about and write down. It helps you tell how well-controlled your asthma is and what to do about it. Your action plan might include: How much medicine to take and when A list of your triggers and ways to avoid them What to do when you have specific symptoms of trouble A peak flow meter is an inexpensive, hand-held gadget.


Question: What should an asthma diary include?

Answer: A diary can help you keep track of how well-controlled your asthma is. Every day, write down: Any asthma symptoms you had and how you're feeling Where you were and what you were doing right before a flare When you're using medication and how much Your PEF numbers All of this information, collected in one place, helps you and your doctor see patterns and recognize warnings of asthma attacks. You can learn to prevent them or stop them before you get very ill. Your doctor can also check your diary to see how well your asthma action plan is working.


Question: How is a peak flow meter used to help with asthma symptoms?

Answer: Your action plan might include: How much medicine to take and when A list of your triggers and ways to avoid them What to do when you have specific symptoms of trouble A peak flow meter is an inexpensive, hand-held gadget. You use it to measure how fast air comes out when you exhale hard after a full breath in. This number is called a peak expiratory flow, or PEF. Your doctor may want you to use a peak flow meter to help you recognize trouble. Many asthma symptoms result from not being able to move air out of your lungs. If your PEF goes down, that's a sign your asthma is getting worse and you need to do something.


Question: What can you do to prevent migraine headaches from alcohol?

Answer: You can also try to: Have alcohol with a meal. This may lower the chance of bringing on a migraine. Don't drink when you're stressed. It's linked to a higher number of migraine headaches. Skip home hangover remedies. There's no proof that drinking raw eggs or downing hot sauce will get rid of your morning-after migraine faster. Downing more alcohol (the âhair of the dogâ theory) won't help either. Try triptans. Ask your doctor if this medicine might help. It can't prevent a migraine, but it can help stop one after it starts. Triptans work best when you take them at the early signs of a migraine. Still, they can cause serious health risks for many people.


Question: What can trigger migraine headaches?

Answer: Many things can trigger a migraine, from stress at work to changes in the weather and foods like aged cheese. And for about one-third of people who have these headaches, alcohol is also a trigger.


Question: Can home hangover remedies help migraine headaches?

Answer: There's no proof that drinking raw eggs or downing hot sauce will get rid of your morning-after migraine faster. Downing more alcohol (the âhair of the dogâ theory) won't help either.


Question: How can triptans help treat migraine headaches?

Answer: Ask your doctor if this medicine might help. It can't prevent a migraine, but it can help stop one after it starts. Triptans work best when you take them at the early signs of a migraine. Still, they can cause serious health risks for many people.


Question: What are symptoms of migraine triggered by alcohol?

Answer: Alcohol can cause two different types of migraine headaches. You could get a headache within 30 minutes to 3 hours of drinking. You don't have to chug a large amount for this to happen. Some people only sip a glass or two of wine before their head starts to throb. Or you might be fine until after your blood alcohol level returns to normal. This is called a delayed alcohol-induced headache ( DAIH). It may not show up until the morning after you drink. This type of headache can happen to anyone, but people with migraines are more likely to get one. It can happen even if you drink less than people who don't get migraine headaches.


Question: What can you do to prevent asthmatic bronchitis?

Answer: Treatment also involves avoiding asthma triggers by following these tips: Wash your bed linens and blankets in hot water. Dust and vacuum regularly. Use a HEPA air filter in your home. Keep pets out of your bedroom. Don't smoke, and try to stay away from other people who smoke. Wash your hands frequently to prevent the spread of infection.


Question: What causes asthmatic bronchitis?

Answer: There are many triggers that may initiate the release of inflammatory substances. Common asthmatic bronchitis triggers include: Tobacco smoke Pollution Allergens such as pollen, mold, dust, pet dander, or food (and food additives like MSG) Chemicals Certain medications (aspirin, beta-blockers) Exercise Weather changes (for example, cold weather) Viral or bacterial infections Strong emotions (laughing or crying) The symptoms of asthmatic bronchitis are a combination of the symptoms of bronchitis and asthma.


Question: How do azathioprine and mercaptopurine work for Crohn's disease?

Answer: Some common ones are: Azathioprine ( Azasan, Imuran) Mercaptopurine ( Purinethol, Purixan) Methotrexate ( Trexall) Azathioprine and mercaptopurine can help keep flare-ups at bay. But they may take months to work. You might a need a faster-acting drug like a steroid until they do.


Question: When are drugs that target your immune system and steroids combined to treat Crohn's disease?

Answer: Its side effects include: Nausea and diarrhea Fatigue Scarring of the liver if used long-term Your doctor may use these drugs aggressively to treat your symptoms.


Question: What are biologics for Crohn's disease?

Answer: These drugs also affect your immune system. But they focus just on parts of your immune system in your gut. Doctors use biologics if you have moderate to severe Crohn's that hasn't responded well to other medications. They also use them to treat open, draining fistulas in combination with antibiotics and other treatments.


Question: What are immunomodulators for Crohn's disease and what are common types?

Answer: These affect your entire body, not just your gut. Some common ones are: Azathioprine ( Azasan, Imuran) Mercaptopurine ( Purinethol, Purixan) Methotrexate ( Trexall) Azathioprine and mercaptopurine can help keep flare-ups at bay.


Question: Do biologics for Crohn's disease have risks?

Answer: Some examples of biologics are: Adalimumab ( Humira) Adalimumab-adbm ( Cyltezo), a biosimilar to Humira Adalimumab-atto ( Amjevita), also a biosimilar to Humira Certolizumab ( Cimzia) Infliximab ( Remicade) Infliximab-abda ( Renflexis), a biosimilar to Remicade Infliximab-dyyb ( Inflectra), also a biosimilar to Remicade Natalizumab ( Tysabri) Ustekinumab ( Stelara) Vedolizumab ( Entyvio) In most cases, biologics cause fewer problems than other drugs used for Crohn's disease. In some instances, there can be serious side effects. Also, there is a risk for serious infections and certain types of cancer in people who take these drugs. Talk with your doctor about which medicine is right for you. No matter which one your doctor prescribes, he'll watch you carefully. Before you take one of these drugs, let your doctor know if you have a heart condition or a disease that affects your nervous system.


Question: How might your doctor use immunomodulators to treat symptoms of Crohn's disease?

Answer: Its side effects include: Nausea and diarrhea Fatigue Scarring of the liver if used long-term Your doctor may use these drugs aggressively to treat your symptoms. Then, he may switch you to other drugs for long-term treatment. You and your doctor can talk about which approach makes sense for you.


Question: What are side effects of biologics?

Answer: Its side effects include: Nausea and diarrhea Fatigue Scarring of the liver if used long-term Your doctor may use these drugs aggressively to treat your symptoms.


Question: When are drugs that target your immune system used to treat Crohn's disease?

Answer: There are several reasons your doctor might want you to try immune system drugs to treat your Crohn's: Because other drugs don't work. Or your doctor may not want you to become too dependent on steroids to lower inflammation. To keep flares away. Immune system drugs can help keep your Crohn's symptoms from coming back. It may take up to 3 months before they take effect. To treat a fistula. This type of abnormal connection can go from one part of your intestine to another. It can also go from your digestive system to places like your bladder, vagina, anus, or skin.


Question: How do drugs that target your immune system help with Crohn's disease?

Answer: The goal is to ease inflammation in your gut. Inflammation is part of a complicated process that helps cause your Crohn's. Drugs that affect your immune system, and treatments like steroids and antibiotics, can treat that process.


Question: What are the symptoms of strep throat?

Answer: A sore throat is the main sign your child has strep. Colds and other viruses can also cause a sore throat. One way to tell the difference is that a virus will often cause a runny nose, too. With strep, the sore throat comes on quickly. Your throat feels raw, and it hurts to swallow. Strep is also more likely to cause these other symptoms as well: A fever of 101 F or higher Red, swollen tonsils White patches in the throat Tiny red spots on the roof of the mouth Appetite loss Stomachache Headache Nausea, vomiting Rash Call your doctor if you or a child in your care has these symptoms.


Question: How is strep throat diagnosed?

Answer: The only sure way to tell strep from viruses that cause a sore throat is with a test. There are two kinds: Rapid strep test: It can identify a case in just a few minutes. The doctor will gently hold down your child's tongue with a depressor.


Question: How can you keep strep throat from spreading?

Answer: Have your child stay home from school or daycare until the fever is gone and he has been on an antibiotic for at least 24 hours. Same for you and the workplace. Other tips: Don't share cups, dishes, forks, or other personal items with someone who's sick. Ask children to cover their mouths with a tissue or sleeve whenever they cough or sneeze. Have everyone in the house wash their hands or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer many times daily.


Question: How is a rapid test used to diagnose strep throat?

Answer: There are two kinds: Rapid strep test: It can identify a case in just a few minutes. The doctor will gently hold down your child's tongue with a depressor. Then, she will use a cotton swab to take a sample from the back of the throat. You'll get the results in 20 minutes or less. If the test is positive, which means strep is there, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics to treat it. If the test is negative, which means the strep bacteria could not be found, the doctor might send the sample to a lab for a follow-up that takes longer.


Question: How do I catch strep throat?

Answer: Strep throat is an infection of the throat and tonsils. Bacteria called group Astreptococcus, also known as Streptococcus pyogenes. cause it. They live in the nose and throat. You can get the infection from someone who is sick with strep A bacteria or is a carrier of it. Like other infections, it spreads through close contact. When people who are sick cough or sneeze, they release droplets into the air that hold the bacteria. You can infect yourself if you touch something a person with strep has coughed or sneezed upon and then brush your eyes, mouth, or nose with your hand. You can also get sick if you share a glass or other personal item with someone who has strep. Strep is most common in children and teens. Adults can sometimes get it, too.


Question: What can happen if gallstones are left untreated?

Answer: If left untreated, gallstones can also lead to more serious problems, like: Cholecystitis -- an inflamed gallbladder Pancreatitis -- an inflamed pancreas Cholangitis -- inflamed bile ducts Before your doctor opts for surgery, he'll run several tests to see the effect your gallstones are having on your health.


Question: What is recovery like after gallbladder surgery?

Answer: The length of time it takes you to heal depends on the type of surgery you have. If you have your gallbladder removed during open surgery, you'll need to stay in the hospital for a few days afterward. It may take between 6 to 8 weeks for your body to heal fully. Laparoscopy is less involved, so you'll have less pain and heal faster than if you have open surgery. Most people who have it are able to go home from the hospital the same day. You'll likely be back to your normal routine within 2 weeks.


Question: What tests are done before surgery for gallstones?

Answer: If left untreated, gallstones can also lead to more serious problems, like: Cholecystitis -- an inflamed gallbladder Pancreatitis -- an inflamed pancreas Cholangitis -- inflamed bile ducts Before your doctor opts for surgery, he'll run several tests to see the effect your gallstones are having on your health. Tests might include: Blood test Ultrasound MRI HIDA (hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid) scan -- a radioactive chemical is put into your body to create images of any blocked ducts Endoscopic ultrasonography -- an imaging device is put into your mouth and down through your digestive tract so sound waves can create a detailed picture of your small intestine You may be able to manage your symptoms for a short time by making changes to your diet.


Question: What are the risks of gallbladder surgery?

Answer: Doctors believe gallbladder surgery is safe, but some problems can still arise. These may include: Problems with anesthesia Infection Bleeding Swelling Bile leakage Damage to a bile duct Damage to your intestine, bowel, or blood vessels Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots) Heart problems Pneumonia You also run the risk of a problem doctors call âpost-cholecystectomy syndromeâ ( PCS). It can happen if any gallstones are left in your bile ducts or bile happens to leak into your stomach. The symptoms of PCS are similar to those of gallstones. They include belly pain, heartburn, and diarrhea.


Question: What is chemoradiation for stomach cancer?

Answer: These treatments can be used before surgery to shrink the tumor and afterward to kill any cancer that's left.


Question: What increases the risk of stomach cancer?

Answer: Other things that seem to play a role in raising the risk include: Smoking Being overweight or obese A diet high in smoked, pickled, or salty foods Stomach surgery for an ulcer Type- A blood Epstein- Barr virus infection Certain genes Working in coal, metal, timber, or rubber industries Exposure to asbestos Early on, stomach cancer may cause: Indigestion Feeling bloated after you eat a meal Heartburn Slight nausea Loss of appetite Just having indigestion or heartburn after a meal doesn't mean you have cancer.


Question: What can prevent stomach cancer?

Answer: Treat stomach infections. If you have ulcers from an H. pylori infection, get treatment. Antibiotics can kill the bacteria, and other drugs will heal the sores in the lining of your stomach to cut your risk of cancer. Eat healthy. Get more fresh fruits and vegetables on your plate every day. They're high in fiber and in some vitamins that can lower your cancer risk. Avoid very salty, pickled, cured, or smoked foods like hot dogs, processed lunch meats, or smoked cheeses. Keep your weight at a healthy level, too. Being overweight or obese can also raise your risk of the disease. Don't smoke. Your stomach cancer risk doubles if you use tobacco. Watch aspirin or NSAID use. If you take daily aspirin to prevent heart problems or NSAID drugs for arthritis, talk to your doctor about how these drugs might affect your stomach.


Question: Does having indigestion or heartburn after a meal mean you have cancer?

Answer: Other things that seem to play a role in raising the risk include: Smoking Being overweight or obese A diet high in smoked, pickled, or salty foods Stomach surgery for an ulcer Type- A blood Epstein- Barr virus infection Certain genes Working in coal, metal, timber, or rubber industries Exposure to asbestos Early on, stomach cancer may cause: Indigestion Feeling bloated after you eat a meal Heartburn Slight nausea Loss of appetite Just having indigestion or heartburn after a meal doesn't mean you have cancer. But if you feel these symptoms a lot, talk to your doctor. He can see if you have other risk factors and test you to look for any problems.


Question: Does smoking cause stomach cancer?

Answer: Don't smoke. Your stomach cancer risk doubles if you use tobacco.


Question: What can stomach cancer cause?

Answer: Other things that seem to play a role in raising the risk include: Smoking Being overweight or obese A diet high in smoked, pickled, or salty foods Stomach surgery for an ulcer Type- A blood Epstein- Barr virus infection Certain genes Working in coal, metal, timber, or rubber industries Exposure to asbestos Early on, stomach cancer may cause: Indigestion Feeling bloated after you eat a meal Heartburn Slight nausea Loss of appetite Just having indigestion or heartburn after a meal doesn't mean you have cancer.


Question: What factors may increase the risk for stomach cancer?

Answer: Other things that seem to play a role in raising the risk include: Smoking Being overweight or obese A diet high in smoked, pickled, or salty foods Stomach surgery for an ulcer Type- A blood Epstein- Barr virus infection Certain genes Working in coal, metal, timber, or rubber industries Exposure to asbestos Early on, stomach cancer may cause: Indigestion Feeling bloated after you eat a meal Heartburn Slight nausea Loss of appetite Just having indigestion or heartburn after a meal doesn't mean you have cancer.


Question: How can you treat stomach infections to prevent stomach cancer?

Answer: If you have ulcers from an H. pylori infection, get treatment. Antibiotics can kill the bacteria, and other drugs will heal the sores in the lining of your stomach to cut your risk of cancer.


Question: What are the early symptoms of stomach cancer?

Answer: Other things that seem to play a role in raising the risk include: Smoking Being overweight or obese A diet high in smoked, pickled, or salty foods Stomach surgery for an ulcer Type- A blood Epstein- Barr virus infection Certain genes Working in coal, metal, timber, or rubber industries Exposure to asbestos Early on, stomach cancer may cause: Indigestion Feeling bloated after you eat a meal Heartburn Slight nausea Loss of appetite Just having indigestion or heartburn after a meal doesn't mean you have cancer. But if you feel these symptoms a lot, talk to your doctor. He can see if you have other risk factors and test you to look for any problems.


Question: Is it easy to diagnose multiple sclerosis?

Answer: It can be a challenge for doctors to diagnose multiple sclerosis ( MS). There's no single test that can prove you have it.


Question: Are electrical tests used to diagnose multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Evoked potentials: These electrical nerve tests can help doctors confirm if MS has affected the parts of your brain that help you see, hear, and feel. The doctor will place wires on your scalp to test your brain's response as you watch a pattern on a video screen, hear a series of clicks, or get electrical pulses on your arm or leg.


Question: What other tests are used to diagnose multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Evoked potentials: These electrical nerve tests can help doctors confirm if MS has affected the parts of your brain that help you see, hear, and feel. The doctor will place wires on your scalp to test your brain's response as you watch a pattern on a video screen, hear a series of clicks, or get electrical pulses on your arm or leg. Blood tests: They can't diagnose MS, but the doctor will use them to look for substances in your blood that point to it.


Question: Will my doctor examine my blood to diagnose multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Blood tests: They can't diagnose MS, but the doctor will use them to look for substances in your blood that point to it. Most importantly, they can help your doctor rule out conditions that look like MS.


Question: Does a normal MRI confirm that I do not have multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Also, an MRI result that says things are normal doesn't rule out MS. You could be one of a small number of people who have lesions in places the scan can't show.


Question: What does an MRI show?

Answer: They can see changes caused by multiple sclerosis like signs of inflammation in the deep parts of your brain or spinal cord. But older people or those with high blood pressure and diabetes also can have the same kinds of spots on a brain MRI. So the doctor will consider other info, including your symptoms, along with the scan results before they make a diagnosis.


Question: When should I call 911 for an insulin reaction?

Answer: A severe reaction A seizure A loss of consciousness For a severe reaction: While waiting for emergency help, inject glucagon if you are trained to do so.


Question: If I start to feel symptoms of a mild or moderate insulin reaction, what should I do?

Answer: For moderate to mild symptoms: Give the person a high-sugar food such as: 3 to 4 glucose tablets 1/3 to 1/2 tube of glucose in gel form 1/2 cup orange juice 1/3 cup apple juice 1/4 to 1/3 cup raisins 2 large or 6 small sugar cubes in water 4 oz. to 6 oz. of regular soda, not diet 1 tablespoon of molasses, honey, or corn syrup 5 hard candies After 15 minutes, test blood sugar, if possible. If symptoms persist or blood sugar reading is below 70 mg/d L, give another high-sugar food. If the person's next meal is more than 30 minutes away, give the person a small snack, such as 1/2 sandwich, 1 oz. cheese with 4 to 6 crackers, or 1 tablespoon peanut butter with 4 to 6 crackers. If the person still doesn't feel better, go to a hospital emergency room or call 911. If you go to the hospital, doctors may give sugar intravenously.


Question: What should I do in the case of a severe insulin reaction?

Answer: A severe reaction A seizure A loss of consciousness For a severe reaction: While waiting for emergency help, inject glucagon if you are trained to do so.


Question: Is there a vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?

Answer: There's no vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus. But a medication called palivizumab may prevent RSV infections and protect high-risk babies from serious complications of RSV infection. If your baby is at high risk, your doctor may give them a monthly shot of it during peak RSV season.


Question: How do you treat respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in babies and young children at home?

Answer: Use a cool-mist vaporizer to keep the air moist and make breathing easier.


Question: How do you treat respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in babies when the case is severe?

Answer: Babies with more serious cases may need to go to a hospital, where their treatment may include: Oxygen IV fluids Medications to open their airways


Question: What children are most at risk for severe infection from respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)?

Answer: The chance of a severe infection is highest for: Babies born prematurely Children younger than 2 who were born with heart or lung disease Infants and young children whose immune systems are weakened because of illness or medical treatment Children under 8 to 10 weeks old To diagnose RSV, your child's doctor will probably look at their medical history and do a physical exam, including listening to their lungs.


Question: How does amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) progress?

Answer: Over time, you'll lose control over the muscles that help you walk, talk, swallow, and breathe. You'll still be able to see, hear, smell, touch, taste, and use the bathroom. But you'll need help with basic tasks such as getting dressed, eating, or showering. Your condition might get worse quickly or slowly. The doctors and other members of your medical team will help you understand how it has progressed and what you can expect.


Question: What happens when you have amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

Answer: Over time, you'll lose control over the muscles that help you walk, talk, swallow, and breathe. You'll still be able to see, hear, smell, touch, taste, and use the bathroom. But you'll need help with basic tasks such as getting dressed, eating, or showering. Your condition might get worse quickly or slowly. The doctors and other members of your medical team will help you understand how it has progressed and what you can expect.


Question: What is the cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

Answer: Right now, there is no cure for ALS.


Question: What symptoms are caused by an allergy to pollen from grass?

Answer: It brings on symptoms like a runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and a cough.


Question: How does an unmowed lawn make grass pollen allergies worse?

Answer: Most types of grass release pollen only when they grow tall. The pollen comes from a feathery flower that grows at the top. If you keep your lawn mowed, it's less likely to release pollen. But Bermuda grass and some other types can still release the sneezy stuff even if you keep it short.


Question: How do I avoid triggers of grass pollen allergies?

Answer: Close windows on windy, summer days. Wear a mask when you garden.


Question: What types of lawn grasses are less likely to trigger allergies?

Answer: These types don't flower and release pollen until they're 12 inches or taller. Other allergy-safe options for your yard include ivy (be careful, though, because it spreads) and Irish moss. Or you could landscape with other types of plants that will do well with the sun, soil, and water you usually get.


Question: How do certain foods make grass pollen allergies worse?

Answer: If you're allergic to grasses, your symptoms are more likely to be triggered by particular fruits and vegetables that have proteins like those in pollen. Fresh celery, melons, peaches, oranges, and tomatoes may give you an itchy feeling in your mouth.


Question: How do I know if I have an allergy to grass pollen?

Answer: Get tested. It's the only way to know if you really are allergic to grasses, or if something else causes your symptoms.


Question: When do grass pollen allergies strike?

Answer: In the late spring and early summer, they release pollen into the air. The wind can carry it for miles. Grass pollen is microscopic. You may not see it in the air. But if you're allergic, your body may react even to small amounts.


Question: What kinds of grasses cause pollen allergies?

Answer: The kinds that often trigger allergies include: Bermuda Johnson Kentucky Orchard Redtop Rye Sweet vernal Timothy You may be allergic to only one type of grass or to many.


Question: What are signs of primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: Signs that your child may have a PIDD include: Has four or more infections a year in the ears, lungs, skin, eyes, mouth, or private parts Needs to get antibiotics through an IV for infections Gets more than one severe, fast-moving illness, like septicemia, a bacterial infection of the blood Has thrush (a fungal infection in the mouth) that doesn't go away Antibiotics don't work well Gets pneumonia more than once a year Your doctor will do a physical exam and may ask you questions like: Has your child had a lot of severe infections?


Question: How does a primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) affect you?

Answer: If your child has it, in most cases he'll be able to go to school and make friends like other kids. As an adult with a PIDD, he'll be able to work and have an active, normal life.


Question: When should I notice the symptoms of primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: You may not notice any symptoms until your child is a few months old. He may get a lot of serious infections, or his illness may start out as a common cold but turn into bronchitis or pneumonia.


Question: How can a stem cell transplant treat primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: It's rare, but for a very severe PIDD, your child could need a stem cell transplant. In some cases, it's a cure. Stem cells help make new blood cells. They come from bone marrow, which is the soft center of the bones. For a transplant, a donor supplies stem cells with unbroken genes. Your child will need to find someone who is the right match so that his body accepts the new cells. Close relatives, such as a brother or sister, are the best chance. Someone from the same racial or ethnic background may also be a good donor. If no one you know is a match, you can put your child on a waiting list.


Question: How should children with primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) eat and exercise?

Answer: Just like anyone else, your child should eat good foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Make exercise a habit, and see that he gets plenty of sleep, too.


Question: What is a primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD)?

Answer: When your child has a primary immunodeficiency disease ( PIDD), his body has a harder time fighting germs that make people sick. He may get a lot of infections in his ears, lungs, skin, or other areas that take a long time to go away. Most cases happen in babies or young children, but sometimes it doesn't show up until adulthood. There are many different types -- more than 200 -- and they affect different parts of the immune system. All make it more likely that he'll get sick from infections.


Question: What causes primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD)?

Answer: You can't catch PIDDs like you can a cold or the flu. Your child has it because he was born with a broken gene that affects his immune system. Sometimes this problem runs in families. Or it may have happened on its own. Normally, your body's white blood cells fight infections. Some people with PIDDs are missing certain types of white blood cells, or those cells don't work very well. If that's true for your child, he's more likely to get sick from infections that wouldn't take hold in someone else.


Question: How does immunoglobulin (Ig) replacement therapy treat primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: These are disease-fighting proteins called antibodies that your child needs. Doctors usually give it through a needle, by IV. The antibodies only last so long, so your child may need a treatment every 3 or 4 weeks. He might have some side effects such as achy muscles or joints, headaches, or a low fever.


Question: How can a child who has primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) keep from catching diseases?

Answer: To keep germs away, wash hands often, lathering up with soap for at least 20 seconds. Teach him to keep rubbing his soapy hands together while singing the " Happy Birthday" song twice, which is long enough to get the job done. You can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water aren't available. Stress can make it harder for his body to fight disease. Encourage him to take time to relax, play, and enjoy hobbies. Massage therapy, exercise, being with people he likes, and prayer or meditation are some other ways to lower his stress.


Question: What are questions to ask my doctor about primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD)?

Answer: What else could cause these symptoms? How can I keep my child from getting sick? What reactions should I expect from the treatment? Should my child get all the usual vaccines? Does my child need to stay away from some sports?


Question: How should I take care of my child with primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD)?

Answer: Even with a PIDD, your child will be able to go to school, make friends, and keep up with activities. You'll want to meet with his teachers to explain his condition and to let them know he may need to miss classes because of illness more often than other kids. You should also let the school know about medications he'll need to take.


Question: What happens during a stem cell transplant treat primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) in children?

Answer: During the transplant, your child will get the new stem cells through an IV. He won't feel any pain from this, and he'll be awake while it's happening. It could take 2 to 6 weeks for the new stem cells to multiply and start making healthy, working blood cells. During this time, your child may need to stay in the hospital or, at the very least, make visits every day to get checked by his transplant team. It can take 6 months to a year until the number of good blood cells in his body gets up to normal.


Question: What can I expect from primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) and its treatments?

Answer: Everyone's experience with a PIDD is different because there are so many types of this disease. Most people, with the right treatment, can live a full and active life. The most severe forms of the disease may be treated, and possibly cured, with stem cell transplants, although that's not an easy process. When your child has this illness, the whole family will need lots of emotional support from people like friends, extended family members, and neighbors. Talk to your doctor about getting in touch with other families who have a child with a severe PIDD and can understand what it's like.


Question: Where can I get information about primary immunodeficiency disease (PIDD) treatments and support groups?

Answer: The web site of the Immune Deficiency Foundation can help you find a doctor or get in touch with a support group. The site also has information about clinical trials. These test new drugs to see if they're safe and how well they work. Trials are a way for people to try medicines that aren't available to everyone. Your doctor can tell you if this is a good option for your child.


Question: How can I tell the difference between a cold and allergies?

Answer: They have different causes. You get a cold when a tiny living thing called a virus gets into your body. There are hundreds of different types that can get you sick.


Question: What is the difference between the duration of a cold vs. allergies?

Answer: Characteristic Cold Allergy How Long It Lasts 3-14 days Days to months -- as long as you're in contact with the allergy trigger and a short time after When It Happens Most often in the winter, but possible at any time Any time of the year -- although the appearance of some allergy triggers is seasonal When It Starts Symptoms take a few days to appear after infection with the virus Symptoms can begin immediately after contact with allergy triggers Symptom Cold Allergy Cough Often Sometimes Aches Sometimes Never Fatigue Sometimes Sometimes Fever Rarely Never Itchy, watery eyes Rarely Often Sore throat Often Sometimes Runny or stuffy nose Often Often The most important difference is that colds usually don't last longer than 14 days. So see your doctor if you still have symptoms after 2 weeks. These may be allergy symptoms or signs of another problem.


Question: Are allergies contagious?

Answer: The viruses that cause colds are contagious.


Question: What causes allergies?

Answer: They're caused by an overactive immune system. For some reason, your body mistakes harmless things, such as dust or pollen, for germs and mounts an attack on them. When that happens, your body releases chemicals such as histamine, just as it does when fighting a cold. This can cause a swelling in the passageways of your nose, and you'll start sneezing and coughing.


Question: Are cold viruses contagious?

Answer: The viruses that cause colds are contagious. You can pick them up when someone who's infected sneezes, coughs, or shakes hands with you. After a couple of weeks, at the most, your immune system fights off the illness and you should stop having symptoms.


Question: What are the risks of gastric sleeve weight loss surgery?

Answer: Certain foods may not agree with you now. You may also develop nutrition problems after surgery, which is why you have to take vitamins and supplements for life. Your doctor will advise you on exactly what you need.


Question: What changes will I need to make to my diet after gastric sleeve surgery?

Answer: After that first month, you'll switch to eating soft solid foods very slowly. Other pointers to keep in mind: Everything must be chewed thoroughly before being swallowed. Don't drink while you eat, as this might cause your new stomach to overfill. Drink liquids a half-hour after finishing a meal. Avoid high-calorie sodas and snacking. Take vitamin and mineral supplements every day.


Question: What happens during gastric sleeve weight loss surgery?

Answer: The surgery takes about an hour. Your surgeon will make a few small cuts in your belly and insert a laparoscope -- an instrument with a tiny camera that sends pictures to a monitor. The surgeon will then insert other medical instruments through the additional cuts and remove 3/4 of your stomach. Finally, he'll reattach the rest of your stomach to form the "sleeve" or tube. You might be in hospital about 2 or 3 days. The procedure is permanent.


Question: How much weight do people lose after gastric sleeve weight loss surgery?

Answer: People generally lose 60% of their extra weight over 12 to 18 months. So if you are 100 pounds overweight, you'll lose about 60 pounds, though some lose more and others less. Of course, exercising and eating right add to your weight loss.


Question: What will your doctor recommend to help you cope with your symptoms of ataxia?

Answer: In order to help you cope with your symptoms, your doctor may recommend: Counseling Physical or occupational therapy Speech therapy Support groups Your doctor can also help you find tools so you can move around easier, such as a cane or a walker. There are also utensils to help you eat and speak more easily.


Question: What is idiopathic ataxia?

Answer: When you haven't inherited a mutated gene or had an illness or injury that could have caused your ataxia, it's called idiopathic ataxia. Your doctor will diagnose you with idiopathic ataxia if he can't find a medical reason for your ataxia symptoms. The most common idiopathic ataxia is called multiple system atrophy, or MSA. Doctors haven't pinned down possible causes for this group of ataxias. They may come from a combination of environmental factors and genetic causes.


Question: What is vestibular ataxia?

Answer: Symptoms of sensory ataxia include: Difficulty touching your finger to your nose with closed eyes Inability to sense vibrations Trouble walking in dim light Walking with a âheavy step,â or stomping when you walk Vestibular ataxia affects your vestibular system. This system is made up of your inner ear and ear canals, which contain fluid. They sense the movements of your head and help with your balance and spatial orientation.


Question: How many people in the United States are affected by ataxia?

Answer: When the nerves in your vestibular system wear away, you can have the following problems: Blurred vision and other eye issues Nausea and vomiting Problems standing and sitting Staggering when you walk Trouble walking in a straight line Vertigo, or dizziness Around 150,000 people in the U. S. deal with some form of ataxia. There are different causes for it. Some are genetic, some are acquired, like injuries, and some have no known clear cause.


Question: What are symptoms of sensory ataxia?

Answer: Symptoms of sensory ataxia include: Difficulty touching your finger to your nose with closed eyes Inability to sense vibrations Trouble walking in dim light Walking with a âheavy step,â or stomping when you walk Vestibular ataxia affects your vestibular system.


Question: What is genetic ataxia?

Answer: You can inherit a certain mutated, or changed, gene from one or both of your parents that causes ataxia. Or you may inherit a mutated gene that causes a disorder with ataxia as a symptom.


Question: What are symptoms of vestibular ataxia?

Answer: When the nerves in your vestibular system wear away, you can have the following problems: Blurred vision and other eye issues Nausea and vomiting Problems standing and sitting Staggering when you walk Trouble walking in a straight line Vertigo, or dizziness Around 150,000 people in the U. S. deal with some form of ataxia.


Question: How is ataxia diagnosed?

Answer: He'll check your balance and coordination, hearing, vision, reflexes, and memory. You'll also need a neurological exam, which might include an MRI or CT scan. These look at the structure of your brain for problems. For some cases, your doctor may recommend tests of your spinal fluid. To do this, he'll insert a needle into your lower back and draw out the fluid to send it to a lab for testing. To rule out genetic forms of ataxia, you may need genetic testing.


Question: What are causes of acquired ataxia?

Answer: Some of the causes of acquired ataxia could include: Brain tumors Blood loss in the brain Cerebral palsy Chickenpox Hydrocephalus, or too much fluid buildup in the brain Head trauma Multiple sclerosis Reactions to certain cancers Vitamin E or B12 deficiency You can also get ataxia if you have a reaction to certain medications, from alcohol or drug use, or from exposure to poison.


Question: What are treatments for ataxia?

Answer: The best treatment for your ataxia symptoms depends on the type you have. There is no specific treatment for ataxia itself. If your ataxia is a symptom of another disorder, your doctor will treat that disorder. If it's due to a cause that you can avoid, like lack of vitamins or exposure to poison, your doctor will help you address the problem causing the ataxia.


Question: What is acquired ataxia?

Answer: Acquired ataxia occurs when you have damage to your spinal cord or nerves. The damage might be from an injury or an illness.


Question: Should I use a cane when I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Use a cane in the hand opposite a painful hip or knee. It curbs wear-and-tear on your joints.


Question: What are the signs of joint damage as a result of rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: If you have swelling and stiffness every day, you're more likely to have damage than someone who has these symptoms less often. You can get damage even if you don't feel pain, but swelling in your joint is a reliable sign. So is a feeling of tenderness when you press on it.


Question: What steps can I take to avoid long-term trouble from my rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Take these steps to improve your odds of avoiding long-term trouble. Get treated early. Much of the damage that eventually becomes serious starts soon after you learn you have RA. The earlier you start treatment, the less your chances of problems. See your doctor often. You'll have less damage if you see your rheumatologist several times a year. Exercise. It makes your joints stronger. Your doctor or physical therapist will help you make a plan that's safe and fits your fitness level. Rest when you need to. You need to find a balance between downtime and exercise. Make sure you don't overdo it when you work out. Use a cane in the hand opposite a painful hip or knee. It curbs wear-and-tear on your joints. If you smoke, quit. Talk to you doctor to get advice on how to end your tobacco habit.


Question: Why should I pay attention to the stiffness of my joints?

Answer: Also, pay attention to how long your joints feel stiff in the morning. Ask yourself when you get up, " How long does it take until I'm feeling as loose as I'll feel for the day?" The longer you feel stiff, the more likely it is that your RA is active.


Question: What is a "boggy" joint in relation to rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Another sign you can look for is something called a "boggy" joint. When your joint lining starts to have problems, it may give your joint a mushy texture. This may continue even when you don't have a flare. See your rheumatologist if you notice this happening.


Question: Is it important to see my doctor for rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: See your doctor often. You'll have less damage if you see your rheumatologist several times a year.


Question: What are habits that help treatment for rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Because treatment for rheumatoid arthritis has improved over the years, many experts believe that most people who now have it will get less joint damage than ever before. Take these steps to improve your odds of avoiding long-term trouble.


Question: Should I smoke if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: If you smoke, quit. Talk to you doctor to get advice on how to end your tobacco habit.


Question: Is treatment for rheumatoid arthritis improving?

Answer: Because treatment for rheumatoid arthritis has improved over the years, many experts believe that most people who now have it will get less joint damage than ever before.


Question: Is it important to get treated early for rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Much of the damage that eventually becomes serious starts soon after you learn you have RA. The earlier you start treatment, the less your chances of problems.


Question: What are signs of joint damage in rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: If you have swelling and stiffness every day, you're more likely to have damage than someone who has these symptoms less often. You can get damage even if you don't feel pain, but swelling in your joint is a reliable sign. So is a feeling of tenderness when you press on it.


Question: Is exercise used to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: It makes your joints stronger. Your doctor or physical therapist will help you make a plan that's safe and fits your fitness level.


Question: What can I drink on a low-residue diet?

Answer: These desserts and snacks are OK to eat in moderation: Plain cakes and cookies Gelatin, plain puddings, custard, and sherbet Ice cream and ice pops Hard candy Pretzels (not whole-grain varieties) Vanilla wafers Drinks Safe beverages include: Decaffeinated coffee, tea, and carbonated beverages (caffeine can upset your stomach) Milk Juices made without seeds or pulp, like apple, no-pulp orange, and cranberry Strained vegetable juices On this plan, you'll stay away from: Coconut, seeds, and nuts, including those found in bread, cereal, desserts, and candy Whole-grain products, including breads, cereals, crackers, pasta, rice, and kasha Raw or dried fruits, like prunes, berries, raisins, figs, and pineapple Most raw vegetables Certain cooked vegetables, including peas, broccoli, winter squash, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, corn (and cornbread), onions, cauliflower, potatoes with skin, and baked beans Beans, lentils, and tofu Tough meats with gristle, and smoked or cured deli meats Cheese with seeds, nuts, or fruit Crunchy peanut butter, jam, marmalade, and preserves Pickles, olives, relish, sauerkraut, and horseradish Popcorn Fruit juices with pulp or seeds, prune juice, and pear nectar As long as you follow the general guidelines for the diet, you can mix and match as much as you'd like.


Question: Should I keep a food diary while I'm on a low-residue diet?

Answer: You may be OK with some of the things listed under "foods to avoid," while other items on the "foods to enjoy" list may bother you. So keep a food diary for a few weeks. Track what you eat and how it makes you feel, so you know what works for you.


Question: Who is more likely to get acute angle glaucoma?

Answer: This can normally happen when you: Go into a dark room Get drops that dilate your eyes Are excited or stressed Take certain drugs like antidepressants, cold medications, or antihistamines Some health conditions can also cause angle closure glaucoma: Cataracts Ectopic lens (when your lens moves from where it should be) Diabetic retinopathy Ocular ischemia (narrowed blood vessels to the eye) Uveitis (eye inflammation) Tumors Women are 2 to 4 times more likely to get it than men. You're also more likely to have it if you're: Asian or Inuit Farsighted Between 55 and 65 Or if you: Have a family history of it Use medications that dilate your pupils Use other medications that cause your iris and cornea to come together, like sulfonamides, topiramate, or phenothiazines If you have acute angle closure glaucoma in one eye, you're also more likely to get it in the other.


Question: What is psychodynamic therapy?

Answer: You and your therapist explore behavior patterns and motivations that you may not be aware of which could contribute to depression. You may focus on any traumas from your childhood.


Question: How long does psychotherapy take?

Answer: While some people may benefit from short-term therapy, people with longstanding or treatment-resistant depression tend to derive more benefit from longer-term psychotherapy . Studies show long-term therapy for those conditions leads to greater improvement in depression symptoms and better life satisfaction and social functioning. It may also lower the risk of relapse after you get better.


Question: What is group counseling therapy?

Answer: Group counseling sessions give you a chance to meet other people who are going through the same things you are. You can share experiences and strategies.


Question: How do I find a therapist for depression?

Answer: You will want to find a qualified therapist -- usually a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, psychiatric nurse, or counselor. If possible, find one who has expertise with treatment-resistant depression. Ask your doctor for recommendations. Or get in touch with an organization like the National Alliance on Mental Illness ( NAMI) or the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance ( DBSA).


Question: What is family counseling?

Answer: Family counseling treats the entire family -- because it's not only the person with the diagnosis who is affected by depression. If you're depressed, your family feels it, too. And unfortunately, although family members may have the best of intentions, without professional guidance, they sometimes make things worse.


Question: What is individual counseling?

Answer: Individual counseling is a one-on-one session with a professional therapist who might be an MD (psychiatrist/doctor), Ph D (psychologist), Psy D (psychologist), LCSW (licensed clinical social worker), or NP (nurse practitioner), with experience in treating depression and other mood disorders. Your therapist can teach you more about depression and help you understand yours. You can discuss new strategies to manage stress and to keep your depression from getting worse or coming back.


Question: What is interpersonal therapy?

Answer: Interpersonal therapy focuses on how your relationships with others play a role in your depression. It focuses on practical issues. You will learn how to spot unhealthy behaviors and change them.


Question: What are cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy?

Answer: Cognitive therapy, behavioral therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy focus on how your own thoughts and behaviors contribute to your depression. Your therapist will help you learn ways to react to things and challenge your preconceptions. You and your therapist might come up with goals. You might also get "homework" assignments, like to keep a journal or apply problem-solving techniques in particular situations.


Question: What can psychotherapy do?

Answer: Many studies support the idea that therapy can be a powerful treatment for depression. Some, although not all, have also found that combining depression medicine with therapy can be very effective. A large-scale trial involving more than 400 people with treatment-resistant depression found that talk therapy alongside medication made symptoms easier to take. There are a number of them: It can help ease stress.


Question: What can family therapy do for depression?

Answer: Family therapy is a great way for your relatives to learn about depression and the early warning signs. Studies suggest that family sessions might really help with treatment, too, improving lifestyle, compliance with medication, and sleep habits. It also lets you and your family members talk about the stresses of life with depression. You may all feel more comfortable talking openly with a therapist there to guide the conversation.


Question: How can I prepare for an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

Answer: Let your doctor know about any medications -- both prescription and over-the-counter -- and supplements you're taking. Wash your hair the night before the test. Don't use any leave-in conditioning or styling products afterward.


Question: What happens after an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

Answer: The technician will take the electrodes off and wash off the glue that held them in place. You can use a little fingernail polish remover at home to get rid of any leftover stickiness. Unless you're actively having seizures or your doctor says you shouldn't, you can drive home. But if the EEG was done overnight, it's better to have someone else drive you. You can usually start taking medications you'd stopped specifically for the test. A neurologist, a doctor who specializes in the brain, will look at the recording of your brain wave pattern.


Question: What is an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

Answer: The machine is only recording the activity of the brain and does not stimulate it. It's rare to have a seizure during the test.


Question: What happens during an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

Answer: You lie down on the exam table or bed, and a technician puts about 20 small sensors on your scalp. These sensors, called electrodes, pick up electrical activity from cells inside your brain called neurons and send them to a machine, where they show up as a series of lines recorded on moving paper or displayed on a computer screen. You'll relax with your eyes open first, then with them closed. The technician may ask you to breathe deeply and rapidly or to stare at a flashing light, because both of these can change your brain wave patterns.


Question: How painful is herpes simplex?

Answer: Some people experience very mild genital herpes symptoms or no symptoms at all. Frequently, people infected with the virus don't even know they have it. However, when it causes symptoms, it can be described as extremely painful. This is especially true for the first outbreak, which is often the worst. Outbreaks are described as aches or pains in or around the genital area or burning, pain, or difficulty urinating. Some people experience discharge from the vagina or penis. Oral herpes lesions (cold sores) usually cause tingling and burning just prior to the breakout of the blisters. The blisters themselves can also be painful.


Question: How is herpes simplex diagnosed?

Answer: Often, the appearance of herpes simplex virus is typical and no testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis. If a health care provider is uncertain, herpes simplex can be diagnosed with lab tests, including DNA -- or PCR -- tests and virus cultures.


Question: What are the symptoms of herpes simplex virus?

Answer: For many people with the herpes virus, which can go through periods of being dormant, attacks (or outbreaks) can be brought on by the following conditions: General illness (from mild illnesses to serious conditions) Fatigue Physical or emotional stress Immunosuppression due to AIDS or such medications as chemotherapy or steroids Trauma to the affected area, including sexual activity Menstruation Symptoms of herpes simplex virus typically appear as a blister or as multiple blisters on or around affected areas -- usually the mouth, genitals, or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender sores.


Question: How are herpes simplex viruses categorized?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Herpes simplex viruses -- more commonly known as herpes -- are categorized into two types: herpes type 1 ( HSV-1, or oral herpes) and herpes type 2 ( HSV-2, or genital herpes). Most commonly, herpes type 1 causes sores around the mouth and lips (sometimes called fever blisters or cold sores). HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but most cases of genital herpes are caused by herpes type 2. In HSV-2, the infected person may have sores around the genitals or rectum. Although HSV-2 sores may occur in other locations, these sores usually are found below the waist.


Question: What conditions can lead to attacks of the herpes simplex virus?

Answer: For many people with the herpes virus, which can go through periods of being dormant, attacks (or outbreaks) can be brought on by the following conditions: General illness (from mild illnesses to serious conditions) Fatigue Physical or emotional stress Immunosuppression due to AIDS or such medications as chemotherapy or steroids Trauma to the affected area, including sexual activity Menstruation Symptoms of herpes simplex virus typically appear as a blister or as multiple blisters on or around affected areas -- usually the mouth, genitals, or rectum.


Question: Can herpes be cured?

Answer: There is no cure for herpes simplex. Once a person has the virus, it remains in the body. The virus lies inactive in the nerve cells until something triggers it to become active again.


Question: How can lead get into dust?

Answer: Although lead-based paint hasn't been sold since 1978, plenty of older homes still have it. Tiny fragments of lead paint can float through the air and accumulate on surfaces throughout your house. Babies can pick them up on their hands and get them into their mouths. They can also breathe them in directly. Contrary to what you might think, it doesn't take much. Even at very low levels of exposure, lead dust can cause harm.


Question: How many U.S. kids have blood levels of lead that are too high?

Answer: According to the Centers of Disease Control, more than half a million children ages 1-5 in the U. S. have blood lead levels high enough to damage their health. Even with treatment, lead poisoning can permanently affect a child's development. Because their bodies are small and growing, babies and young children are at greatest risk.


Question: What can make lumps and bumps appear on your skin?

Answer: There are a number of skin conditions that cause lumps and bumps to appear on the surface or just below the skin.


Question: How are epidermoid cysts treated?

Answer: If the cyst is squeezed and the discharge is forced out without removing the sac, the cyst will return. Usually, a doctor will be able to remove the cyst by making only a small incision in the skin. Antibiotics may be prescribed to treat infected cysts and intralesional steroid injections help with swelling and inflammation.


Question: How is Giardiasis treated?

Answer: Many people get better without treatment. But if your symptoms last more than several weeks, or you're likely to spread the parasite, your doctor can give you medication. Metronidazole ( Flagyl), nitazoxanide ( Alinia), and tinidazole ( Tindamax) are among the drugs used to treat giardia infections.


Question: What are the symptoms of Giardiasis?

Answer: The most common include: Diarrhea Gas or flatulence Greasy stool that floats Stomach or abdominal cramps Upset stomach or nausea Dehydration Weight loss Let your doctor know if: Your symptoms -- including loose stools and nausea -- last more than a week You show signs of dehydration, such as extreme thirst, dizziness, or confusion Tell her about any recent travels, interactions with children in diapers, or swimming or drinking from a body of water. She'll collect a series of stool samples over several days to make a diagnosis.


Question: Who is at risk for Giardiasis?

Answer: You might: Touch contaminated surfaces like bathroom handles, changing tables, diaper pails, or toys, then eat without washing your hands Drink water or use ice made from an untreated water source -- like a lake, stream, or well -- that's home to giardia Swallow the parasite while you swim or play in water Eat uncooked food that contains giardia Come into close contact with someone who has giardiasis Travel to countries where it's common While anyone can catch giardiasis, some people are more likely than others to get the infection: Parents and child care workers who change diapers Children in child care centers People who live in the same household as someone with giardiasis Those who drink water or use ice made from untreated water Backpackers, hikers, and campers who drink unsafe water or who don't practice good hygiene (like proper handwashing) on the trail International travelers People who have anal sex There isn't a vaccine, but there are steps you can take: Wash your hands after you use the toilet, after you change diapers, and before you eat or prepare food.


Question: What are treatment options for osteoporosis spine fractures?

Answer: Treating a hip fracture depends on where your hip is broken, how severe the break is, and your overall health. Treatment options may include: Surgical repair with screws, nails, or plates A partial or total hip replacement Exercises so that you move better and build strength The best treatment depends on the location of the break.


Question: How much weight should you gain when pregnant?

Answer: In general, you should gain about 2 to 4 pounds during the first three months you're pregnant and 1 pound a week during the rest of your pregnancy. If you are expecting twins you should gain 35 to 45 pounds during your pregnancy. This would be an average of 1 ½ pounds per week after the usual weight gain in the first three months. It's especially important to gain the right amount of weight when you're expecting twins because your weight affects the babies' weight. And because twins are often born before the due date, a higher birth weight is important for their health.


Question: How can you gain the right amount of weight during pregnancy?

Answer: If your health care provider wants you to gain weight while you're pregnant, try these tips: Eat five to six small meals every day. Keep quick, easy snacks on hand, such as nuts, raisins, cheese and crackers, dried fruit, and ice cream or yogurt. Spread peanut butter on toast, crackers, apples, bananas, or celery. One tablespoon of creamy peanut butter gives you about 100 calories and 7 grams of protein. Add nonfat powdered milk to mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, and hot cereal. Add extras to your meal, such as butter or margarine, cream cheese, gravy, sour cream, and cheese.


Question: Is it safe to lose weight when pregnant?

Answer: Baby: 8 pounds Placenta: 2-3 pounds Amniotic fluid: 2-3 pounds Breast tissue: 2-3 pounds Blood supply: 4 pounds Stored fat for delivery and breastfeeding: 5-9 pounds Larger uterus: 2-5 pounds Total: 25-35 pounds If a woman is very overweight when she gets pregnant, her doctor may want her to lose weight. She should only lose weight under her doctor's care. But in most cases, women should not try to lose weight or diet during pregnancy.


Question: Should you really eat for two when pregnant?

Answer: Though you do need some extra calories, it's not necessary to ''eat for two.'' The average pregnant woman needs only about 300 healthy calories more a day than she did before she was pregnant. This will help her gain the right amount of weight during pregnancy. Ask your health care provider how much weight you should gain. A woman who was average weight before getting pregnant should gain 25 to 35 pounds after becoming pregnant. Underweight women should gain 28 to 40 pounds. And overweight women may need to gain only 15 to 25 pounds during pregnancy.


Question: When should I get surgery for a deviated septum?

Answer: If possible, it is best to wait until after the nose has stopped growing, around age 15, to have surgery.


Question: When should I see a doctor about a deviated septum?

Answer: Although rare, risks of septoplasty and/or rhinoplasty may include: Infection Bleeding Hole (perforation) of the septum Loss of the ability to smell If you are having nasal symptoms and think you may have a deviated septum, make an appointment to see an ear, nose, and throat doctor, or ENT. There are a number of reasons why you may be experiencing these symptoms, including chronic sinusitis or nasal allergies. Make sure you get the right diagnosis so that you can get the treatment you need.


Question: What is a deviated septum?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } A deviated septum is a condition in which the nasal septum -- the bone and cartilage that divide the nasal cavity of the nose in half -- is significantly off center, or crooked, making breathing difficult. Most people have some sort of imbalance in the size of their breathing passages. In fact, estimates indicate that 80% of people, most unknowingly, have some sort of misalignment to their nasal septum. Only the more severe imbalances cause significant breathing problems and require treatment.


Question: What causes a deviated septum?

Answer: Some people are born with a deviated septum. Other people develop a deviated septum after injury or trauma to the nose.


Question: How is a deviated septum treated?

Answer: Sometimes symptoms of a deviated septum can be relieved with medications. If medicine alone doesn't offer adequate relief, a surgical procedure called septoplasty may be needed to repair a crooked septum and improve breathing.


Question: How does surgery treat a deviated septum?

Answer: Sometimes, a rhinoplasty, or "nose job," is combined with septoplasty to improve the appearance of the nose. This procedure is called septorhinoplasty. Septoplasty may also be combined with sinus surgery. Surgery to repair a deviated septum is usually performed in an outpatient setting under local or general anesthesia and takes about one to one and a half hours, depending on the amount of work being done. You should be able to go home three to four hours after surgery. Internal splints or soft packing material may be put in the nose to stabilize the septum as it heals. If a septoplasty is the only procedure performed, there should be little to no swelling or bruising after surgery. However, if a septorhinoplasty is performed, a week or two of swelling and bruising is normal following the procedure.


Question: What are the symptoms of a deviated septum?

Answer: The most common symptom of a deviated septum is nasal congestion, with one side of the nose being more congested than the other, along with difficulty breathing. Recurrent or repeated sinus infections can also be a sign of a deviated septum. Other symptoms include frequent: Nosebleeds Facial pain Headache Postnasal drip Loud breathing and snoring during sleep A deviated septum may also cause sleep apnea, a serious condition in which a person stops breathing during sleep.


Question: What newer procedures treat a deviated septum?

Answer: These are being done for milder cases. No surgery is completely risk-free, and the benefits of undergoing surgery -- in this case, being able to breathe better -- must outweigh the risks. Septoplasty and septorhinoplasty are common and safe procedures; side effects are rare.


Question: What are the risks of surgery for a deviated septum?

Answer: No surgery is completely risk-free, and the benefits of undergoing surgery -- in this case, being able to breathe better -- must outweigh the risks. Septoplasty and septorhinoplasty are common and safe procedures; side effects are rare. Still, talk with your doctor about the possible risks of surgery before you make a treatment decision. Although rare, risks of septoplasty and/or rhinoplasty may include: Infection Bleeding Hole (perforation) of the septum Loss of the ability to smell If you are having nasal symptoms and think you may have a deviated septum, make an appointment to see an ear, nose, and throat doctor, or ENT.


Question: What characterizes a brainstem stroke?

Answer: Along with vertigo, you'll also have numbness, weakness, trouble speaking, and other stroke symptoms. If you have any of these symptoms, or if you have new vertigo that has not been diagnosed, get immediate emergency help.


Question: Do vestibular migraines cause symptoms of vertigo?

Answer: If you're having a vestibular migraine, you may feel: Dizziness that lasts more than a few minutes Nausea and vomiting Balance problems Extreme motion sensitivity -- feeling sick or dizzy when you move your head, eyes, or body Feeling disoriented or confused Feeling unsteady, like you're in a rocking boat Sensitivity to sound You could get dizzy and have balance problems without having a migraine at all. Other times, the vertigo symptoms happen before, during, or after the headache. Sometimes, you might have migraines for years before the vertigo symptoms begin.


Question: What drugs are used to treat vestibular migraines?

Answer: CGRP inhibitors are a new class of preventive medicine that your doctor may recommend if other medicines don't help. If you have frequent or disabling vestibular migraines, your doctor may try drugs similar to traditional migraine meds.


Question: What are other names for a vestibular migraine?

Answer: There are many names for this type of problem. Your doctor might also call it: Migraine-associated vertigo Migrainous vertigo Migraine-related vestibulopathy Vestibular migraines don't always cause headaches.


Question: Is there a specific medication for vestibular migraines?

Answer: There's no specific medication for vestibular migraines. Your doctor will prescribe different drugs to stop an attack when it happens. This is called abortive therapy.


Question: Who gets vestibular migraines?

Answer: It's hard to tell how many people are living with this condition. The symptoms mimic a lot of other diseases. Researchers think they affect about 1% of the population. But that number could be higher. Like traditional migraines, they're more common in women than men. Vertigo symptoms tend to first strike around age 40. But the condition doesn't just affect adults. Kids can get it, too.


Question: What causes vestibular migraines?

Answer: Doctors aren't sure. Like migraines, there are a lot of theories. But how it really happens is poorly understood. They credit it to misfires between nerve cells in your brain.


Question: Are vestibular suppressants used to treat vestibular migraines?

Answer: It can ease your dizziness and motion sensitivity. This type of drug works on the balance center in your inner ear. Your doctor might prescribe benzodiazepines like lorazepam ( Ativan), anti-nausea drugs like promethazine ( Phenergan), and antihistamines like meclizine.


Question: How are vestibular migraines diagnosed?

Answer: But the International Headache Society and other organizations recently set up the first criteria to help your doctor diagnose the disorder.


Question: What are the symptoms of a vestibular migraine?

Answer: Your doctor might also call it: Migraine-associated vertigo Migrainous vertigo Migraine-related vestibulopathy Vestibular migraines don't always cause headaches. The main symptom is dizziness that comes and goes. Vestibular refers to the inner ear, which controls your hearing and balance. If you're having a vestibular migraine, you may feel: Dizziness that lasts more than a few minutes Nausea and vomiting Balance problems Extreme motion sensitivity -- feeling sick or dizzy when you move your head, eyes, or body Feeling disoriented or confused Feeling unsteady, like you're in a rocking boat Sensitivity to sound You could get dizzy and have balance problems without having a migraine at all.


Question: How does my doctor rule out something else with my vestibular migraine?

Answer: At least half of the episodes happen with one of the following migraine symptoms: A headache that has two of these characteristics: is one-sided, pulsing, moderate to severe, or gets worse with activity Sensitivity to light or sound Seeing shimmering or flashing lights in your vision (a migraine aura) He'll likely order an MRI to check your brain and run hearing and balance tests to look for problems with your ears.


Question: How do temporary anchorage devices (TADs) help in fixing teeth issues?

Answer: Other appliances used in orthodontics include: TADs: Temporary anchorage devices ( TADs) are mini-screws ranging from 6 to 12 millimeters in length and 1.2 to 2 millimeters in diameter. When needed they may be temporarily fixed to bone in the mouth to provide a fixed point from which to apply force to move teeth. TADs allow for more predictable tooth control. They are becoming more common in orthodontic treatment.


Question: When should my child see an orthodontist?

Answer: Your dentist can tell you when to seek evaluation from an orthodontist. The American Association of Orthodontists and the American Dental Association recommend all kids be evaluated for orthodontics by age 7. By this age, the orthodontist can detect subtle problems with jaw growth and emerging teeth. Most kids begin active treatment between ages 9 and 14. Orthodontists recommend you correct dental problems while your child is still growing. Once they stop growing, treatment may take longer and require more extensive work.


Question: What is the youngest age a child can get braces?

Answer: There is no set age when children require orthodontics. The treatment plan will depend on individual needs. For example, kids with cleft palates get orthodontic appliances before their first teeth erupt. Other kids may benefit from starting treatment as early as age 6 or 7, even if they have not lost all of their baby teeth. The goal of early treatment is to prevent further problems from developing. It will create a better environment for the permanent teeth to erupt, or grow, into. Most kids who require early orthodontics will still need braces or additional work later to complete the tooth and jaw alignment process.


Question: How long does my child need to wear a retainer?

Answer: Ideally, your child should wear a retainer forever, even if it is only one night a week. Of course, this may not be practical. The teeth are like the rest of the body and the body changes. Once your child stops wearing the retainer, slight changes to the teeth should be expected.


Question: How do rubber bands help in fixing dental issues?

Answer: They are used when more force is needed to move the teeth and jaws into the desired position. You can choose your favorite color. Many kids choose their school colors or decorate their mouth during holidays (for example, orange and black for Halloween).


Question: Can dentists offer braces at a lower cost?

Answer: Dentists: Some general dentists provide orthodontic treatment and may be able to take care of your orthodontic needs at a reduced rate since they are not orthodontists.


Question: What can make you retain water?

Answer: They include: High blood pressure medication Pain relievers known as NSAIDs, including ibuprofen Antidepressants Chemotherapy medication Ask your doctor if your meds may be the problem.


Question: What are some questions I should ask my doctor about my skin allergy?

Answer: Do I need allergy testing? Should I see a specialist? What will make my rash feel better? Will it go away? Can I use over-the-counter medications, or do I need prescription drugs? If I need medicine, what are the possible side effects? Are there things I should avoid? Can I take something to prevent an allergic reaction? Are there other treatments that could help? Should I be worried about an allergic emergency? What should I watch for? Do I need to be concerned about other allergies?


Question: What kind of doctor should I see if I can't see a rheumatologist for my rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: If you can't see a rheumatologist for all your RA care, look for one who will partner with your regular doctor. You'll still need to see the rheumatologist once in a while, but your primary care doctor may handle your day-to-day treatment. If it's not possible to see a rheumatologist at all, look for a primary care doctor who treats many people with RA and ask if they can work with a rheumatologist remotely.


Question: What questions should I ask my doctor about rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Key things to know about your doctor include: Are they part of a group, or do they work on their own? Can I see the doctor of my choice in the practice, or must I see the first available doctor? How long is the average wait for an appointment? Does the office offer evening or weekend appointments?


Question: Is it best to see a rheumatologist if I have arthritis?

Answer: If your doctor doesn't have all the traits you'd like, tell them how you feel and ask for what you need. If you're still unhappy, look for another doctor.


Question: Why do I need to be comfortable talking to my doctor about rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: It's simple: You need to be able to tell your doctor what's going on, and she should be able to communicate clearly to support you. Your doctor should also help you better understand your RA, what to expect from treatment, and what complementary treatments might help or hurt your condition.


Question: What is heart failure and how is it related to breathing issues?

Answer: Even though âfailureâ is in the name, it doesn't mean that your heart stops beating. It means that it's weak. Shortness of breath and feeling tired can be signs of the condition. Often people also have swelling in their ankles, feet, legs, and mid-section because the heart is not strong enough to pump blood properly. In the early stages of heart failure, you may have trouble breathing after exercise, getting dressed, or walking across a room. But as the heart gets weaker, you may feel breathless even when you lie down. See your doctor if that's happening to you. She can recommend medicines and treatments that can help.


Question: What is tachycardia?

Answer: Tachycardia is a fast heart rate -- usually more than 100 beats per minute in an adult. There are several kinds, but one that may cause shortness of breath is SVT, or atrial tachycardia. In SVT, the heart rate speeds up because the heart's electrical signals don't fire properly. People who have SVT and are short of breath should get medical help right away. Your doctor may recommend other things that can help, too, like quitting smoking and drinking less coffee and alcohol.


Question: Are breathing problems ever related to the heart?

Answer: Breathing problems can happen for many reasons, like being out of shape, congestion, fever, or asthma. But in some cases, they're a sign that something is wrong with your heart. Whatever the reason, always take breathing issues seriously. Tell your doctor so he can help you figure out the cause.


Question: Does breastfeeding reduce risk of ear infections?

Answer: Because formula-fed babies are more likely to get ear infections, it is better to breast feed your infant for the first six to 12 months of life, if possible, to prevent ear infections.


Question: How can I prevent ear infections because of a cold in my child?

Answer: Remove as many environmental pollutants from your home as you can, including: Dust Cleaning fluid and solvents Tobacco smoke Also, reduce yours or your child's exposure to people with colds, and control allergies. Taking steps to prevent colds and flu as well as other illnesses can prevent some, but not all, ear infections. Here are some important steps to take: Be sure everyone in your household, including your children receive the proper vaccines when they are supposed to be given. That includes both flu and pneumococcal vaccines. Make hand washing a habit that becomes part of the family's normal routine. If possible, avoid group care for children, especially during cold and flu season.


Question: What pollutants can cause ear infections in a baby?

Answer: Remove as many environmental pollutants from your home as you can, including: Dust Cleaning fluid and solvents Tobacco smoke Also, reduce yours or your child's exposure to people with colds, and control allergies.


Question: Can you use stevia as a cooking ingredient?

Answer: Each brand has its own sugar-to-stevia ratio, so check the package before you measure out sweetener.


Question: What is stage B heart failure?

Answer: You're in this phase if you never had symptoms of heart failure but you're diagnosed with systolic left ventricular dysfunction, which means the left chamber of your heart doesn't pump well. You may be in this group if you had or have: Heart attack Valve disease Cardiomyopathy Treatment will depend on your situation.


Question: What is stage D heart failure?

Answer: You're in this phase if you never had symptoms of heart failure but you're diagnosed with systolic left ventricular dysfunction, which means the left chamber of your heart doesn't pump well.


Question: How is stage A heart failure treated?

Answer: When you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or other heart and blood vessel conditions like coronary artery disease, you may need to take an ACE inhibitor or an angiotensin II receptor blocker ( ARB).


Question: What causes heart failure?

Answer: Heart failure can be brought on by many conditions that damage the heart.


Question: How can a heart attack cause heart failure?

Answer: Heart attack may happen when a coronary artery is blocked suddenly, which stops the flow of blood to your heart muscle.


Question: What are the symptoms of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)?

Answer: The first signs of PML can be different from person to person, depending on the nerves that are damaged first. But they often include: Clumsiness or loss of coordination Difficulty walking Facial drooping Loss of vision Personality changes Trouble speaking Weak muscles Sometimes, PML can also cause seizures.


Question: How do doctors diagnose progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)?

Answer: If your doctor thinks you might have PML, he'll scan your brain with a magnetic resonance imaging machine ( MRI). This uses powerful magnets and radio waves to make a detailed picture. He'll look for lesions -- spots of damaged tissue -- that show the disease is there. If an MRI doesn't give a clear picture, he might do a brain biopsy. He'll take a small sample of tissue from your brain to look at under a microscope for signs of the disease. Your doctor might also take a sample of the fluid around your brain and spinal cord by using a spinal tap -- a needle put into your lower back.


Question: Is my stress affecting my poop?

Answer: The digestive system is especially sensitive to stress, and constipation can be one response. Whether it's for business or pleasure, travel is stressful. When it disrupts your regular routines, especially eating patterns, your pooping can get off-schedule as well.


Question: How does pregnancy affect how I poop?

Answer: That's especially true during pregnancy, when hormone changes can easily throw off your digestive system. Add the pressure a growing baby puts on your plumbing, and it's no surprise you have trouble going. Problems with pooping are also common after childbirth. What about my age? The chance of having trouble moving your bowels goes up as you get older, so make a point to get more exercise, drink more water, and eat more fiber.


Question: How can I get more fiber?

Answer: Moving your bowels regularly takes fiber -- lots of it. We're talking about 3 to 5 cups of fruits and vegetables every day. Go easy on meat and dairy and load up on produce. Just be sure you add it to your diet gradually. Skip fast and prepared foods. They may be quick and easy, but they're almost always low in fiber.


Question: How long does traveler's diarrhea usually last?

Answer: The typical symptoms of traveler's diarrhea include: Abrupt onset of diarrhea Fever Nausea and vomiting Bloating Urgent need to have a bowel movement Malaise (weakness or discomfort) Explosive and painful gas Cramps Loss of appetite Traveler's diarrhea usually lasts from 3 to 7 days and is rarely life threatening.


Question: What is required when treating traveler's diarrhea?

Answer: The most important treatment requires the replacement of fluids and salts lost from diarrhea. This is best achieved by use of an oral rehydration solution such as the World Health Organization oral rehydration salts ( ORS) solution. ORS packets are available at stores or pharmacies in almost all developing countries. ORS is prepared by adding one packet to boiled or treated water. Packet instructions should be followed carefully to ensure that the salts are added to the correct volume of water. ORS solution should be consumed or discarded within 12 hours if stored at room temperature or within 24 hours if refrigerated.