Question: How can I keep someone with psoriasis from becoming isolated?

Answer: Living with psoriasis can be tough -- not just for the person with the diagnosis, but for his or her loved ones, too. Lots of people living with psoriasis start to pull back from life, to isolate themselves. If you can, try to intervene. Encourage your loved one to stay connected with friends and do the things that he or she enjoys.


Question: What are the most common symptoms of epiglottitis?

Answer: The most common symptoms include sore throat, muffling or changes in the voice, difficulty speaking, fever, difficulty swallowing, fast heart rate, and difficulties in breathing. Also, the anxiety from having blood drawn or cultures taken from the throat may cause the unstable epiglottis to close off, completely obstructing the airway and creating an emergency with only a few minutes to correct.


Question: What is epiglottitis?

Answer: The epiglottis is a flap of tissue at the base of the tongue that keeps food from going into the trachea, or windpipe, during swallowing. When it gets infected or inflamed, it can obstruct, or close off, the windpipe, which may be fatal unless promptly treated. But if the person was not brought to the hospital early and was not appropriately diagnosed and treated, the prognosis may range from long-range illness to death.


Question: How can epiglottitis be prevented?

Answer: Adult vaccination is not routinely recommended, except for people with immune problems such as sickle cell anemia, splenectomy (removal of the spleen), cancers, or other diseases affecting the immune system. Media type: Illustration epiglottis, acute supraglottitis, thermal epiglottitis, peritonsillar abscess, croup, H influenzae type b, Hib, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, varicella-zoster, herpes simplex virus type 1, Staphylococcus aureus, inspiratory stridor, laryngoscopy, epiglottitis


Question: How is sleep apnea related to fatigue treated?

Answer: Drugs that might help include: Nasal steroids Oral antihistamines Nasal antihistamines Leukotriene modifiers Mast cell stabilizers Allergy shots -- immunotherapy -- may help in severe cases. If there is no physical cause for the depression or anxiety, your doctor may prescribe medication. The surgeon will remove tissues that are blocking the airways.


Question: What are the symptoms of fatigue related to fibromyalgia?

Answer: It's similar to how you feel when you have the flu or have missed a lot of sleep. Symptoms: Chronic fatigue, deep muscle pain, painful tender points, sleep problems, anxiety, depression Fibromyalgia is one of the more common causes of chronic fatigue and musculoskeletal pain, especially in women. Your sleep may be interrupted by frequent waking. Yet, you may not remember any sleep disruptions the next day. Some people with fibromyalgia live in a constant 'fibro fog' -- a hazy, mental feeling that makes it difficult to concentrate. Lose weight if you are overweight, and if you smoke, stop.


Question: How are food allergies and intolerances treated related to fatigue?

Answer: One way to reduce symptoms of allergic rhinitis -- including fatigue -- is to take steps to avoid the offending allergen. You can also talk to your doctor about a food allergy test -- or invest in a home test such as ALCAT -- which may help you identify the offending foods. Talk with your doctor about a sleep study (polysomnogram) to determine if you have sleep apnea.


Question: Are cigars safer than cigarettes?

Answer: Pipe and cigar smokers often wave off worries that smoking is bad for their health. They claim their habit is harmless and perpetuate the common misperception that pipes and cigars are somehow safer than cigarettes. In reality, these tobacco products carry the same health risks as cigarettes. A single large cigar can contain more than a 1/2 ounce of tobacco -- as much tobacco as an entire pack of cigarettes. One cigar also contains 100 to 200 milligrams of nicotine, while a cigarette averages only about 8 milligrams. That extra nicotine may be why smoking just a few cigars a week is enough to trigger nicotine cravings.


Question: What is a circadian rhythm disorder?

Answer: Circadian Rhythm Disorders Typically, people sleep at night -- thanks not only to the conventions of the 9-to-5 workday, but also to the close interaction between our natural sleep and alertness rhythms, which are driven by an internal "clock." This clock is a small part of the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus. Abnormalities related to this clock are called circadian rhythm disorders ("circa" means "about," and "dies" means "day"). Circadian rhythm disorders include jet lag, adjustments to shift work, delayed sleep phase syndrome (you fall asleep and wake up too late), and advanced sleep phase syndrome (you fall asleep and wake up too early).


Question: Can age affect sleep?

Answer: Insomnia People who have insomnia don't feel as if they get enough sleep at night. Restless legs syndrome is a common problem among middle-aged and older adults.


Question: What causes insomnia?

Answer: Circadian Rhythm Disorders Typically, people sleep at night -- thanks not only to the conventions of the 9-to-5 workday, but also to the close interaction between our natural sleep and alertness rhythms, which are driven by an internal "clock." Short-term insomnia may also be caused by an illness, a stressful event, or drinking too much coffee, for example. Many medications have insomnia as a side effect. Long-term insomnia may be caused by stress, depression, or anxiety. People who abuse alcohol or drugs often suffer from insomnia.


Question: What happens if you have a sleep problem?

Answer: When you're repeatedly interrupted and can't cycle normally through these types and stages of sleep, you may feel tired, fatigued, and have trouble concentrating and paying attention while you're awake. This clock is a small part of the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus.


Question: What does restless legs syndrome feel like?

Answer: They feel an urge to move their legs and feet to get temporary relief, often with excessive, rhythmic, or cyclic leg movements during sleep. Restless legs syndrome is a common problem among middle-aged and older adults. Other women who are pregnant complain that vivid dreams prevent them from getting restful sleep.


Question: How do I soothe sore gums and gum pain?

Answer: Many things can cause your gums to be painful and sore -- but not all of them require a trip to the dentist. These include: Mouthwashes containing hydrogen peroxide (such as Gly- Oxide) Gels that you apply directly to the sore gums (such as Anbesol) If your gums hurt and you have a white coating on your tongue or cheeks, you could have an infection called thrush. If your gums hurt or bleed for more than a week, head for your dentist's chair.


Question: What are some over the counter products to treat gum pain?

Answer: Many things can cause your gums to be painful and sore -- but not all of them require a trip to the dentist. Use over-the-counter ( OTC) painkillers, such as acetaminophen ( Tylenol), as directed. These include: Mouthwashes containing hydrogen peroxide (such as Gly- Oxide) Gels that you apply directly to the sore gums (such as Anbesol) If your gums hurt and you have a white coating on your tongue or cheeks, you could have an infection called thrush.


Question: When should I see my dentist if I have gum pains?

Answer: Many things can cause your gums to be painful and sore -- but not all of them require a trip to the dentist. See your dentist if you have ongoing gum pain or any of these symptoms: Bleeding gums Red, swollen gums Gums that pull back from your teeth Dentures that don't fit right anymore Pain when you chew Loose teeth Teeth that are sensitive to hot or cold To keep your gums healthy and prevent gum disease, the American Dental Association recommends brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day.


Question: Why should I see my dentist if I have gum pains?

Answer: Many things can cause your gums to be painful and sore -- but not all of them require a trip to the dentist. If your gums hurt or bleed for more than a week, head for your dentist's chair. Red, swollen gums that bleed easily are a sign of the gum disease gingivitis. You can get your gums back to normal by brushing and flossing regularly and getting your teeth cleaned regularly. If you don't treat it, gingivitis can lead to a more serious form of gum disease called periodontitis, which can cause painful pockets of pus called abscesses. It can also lead to tooth loss. Gum disease has been linked to heart disease, so it's very important to take care of your mouth.


Question: Where can you get sea buckthorn?

Answer: It contains many medicinal compounds, as well as nutrients that include: Vitamins Amino acids Fatty acids Minerals The leaves, flowers, seeds, and berries of sea buckthorn are used in teas, oils, or concentrates for a wide variety of health issues. Sea buckthorn fruit or fruit juice can be found in certain jellies, juices, purees, sauces, drinks, and liquors. People do not usually eat the berries raw because they are acidic. The amount of sea buckthorn used in food is typically much less than that used for medicinal purposes.


Question: What are side effects of sea buckthorn?

Answer: It contains many medicinal compounds, as well as nutrients that include: Vitamins Amino acids Fatty acids Minerals The leaves, flowers, seeds, and berries of sea buckthorn are used in teas, oils, or concentrates for a wide variety of health issues. But there is some limited research showing it might be helpful for: Dry eyes Atopic dermatitis In animal studies, sea buckthorn has also shown some promise in slowing the growth of tumors and ulcers. The amount of sea buckthorn used in food is typically much less than that used for medicinal purposes. Side effects. In some people who had high blood pressure, swelling, headache, dizziness and palpitations were noted. When used on the skin to treat burns, it sometimes caused a rash. It may also cause low blood sugar in people with diabetes who take medication to lower blood sugar.


Question: What is sea buckthorn and why do people use it?

Answer: It contains many medicinal compounds, as well as nutrients that include: Vitamins Amino acids Fatty acids Minerals The leaves, flowers, seeds, and berries of sea buckthorn are used in teas, oils, or concentrates for a wide variety of health issues. Sea buckthorn is thought to remove free radicals -- molecules that can damage cells. Though not proven in human clinical trials, people say they take sea buckthorn specifically to try to: Treat stomach or intestinal problems Improve blood pressure or blood cholesterol Prevent or manage blood vessel or heart disease Complement cancer treatment Boost immunity and prevent infections Treat obesity Improve symptoms of cirrhosis Improve eyesight or dry eyes Treat respiratory problems such as asthma, colds, and pneumonia People also use sea buckthorn as a sunscreen or cosmetic, and for a variety of skin problems such as: Radiation damage Exanthemata, a skin rash usually found in children Bedsores, burns, or cuts Acne, dermatitis, or dry skin There isn't enough evidence to confirm that sea buckthorn works for most of these health problems. But there is some limited research showing it might be helpful for: Dry eyes Atopic dermatitis In animal studies, sea buckthorn has also shown some promise in slowing the growth of tumors and ulcers.


Question: How does sea buckthorn interact with other drugs?

Answer: Combining sea buckthorn with blood-thinning drugs or supplements could raise your risk of bleeding. Sea buckthorn may also interfere with certain medicines that treat gastrointestinal conditions, heart rhythm problems, cancer, or autoimmune diseases. He or she can let you know if the supplement might raise your risks.


Question: What's the best dose for sea buckthorn?

Answer: Optimal doses of sea buckthorn have not been set for any condition. Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely. This makes it very hard to set a standard dose. He or she can let you know if the supplement might raise your risks.


Question: What type of hypopigmentation is pigmentation loss as a result of skin damage?

Answer: When a person is healthy, his or her skin color will appear normal. Pigmentation loss as a result of skin damage: If you've had a skin infection, blisters, burns, or other trauma to your skin, you may have a loss of pigmentation in the affected area. The good news with this type of pigment loss is that it's frequently not permanent, but it may take a long time to re-pigment. Cosmetics can be used to cover the area, while the body regenerates the pigment.


Question: What can you do to deal with melasma?

Answer: An example of hyperpigmentation is melasma. This condition is characterized by tan or brown patches, most commonly on the face. Wear a broad-brimmed hat and use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher at all times, because sunlight will worsen your condition. Sunscreens containing the physical blockers zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are also helpful in blocking daylight's UVA rays, which makes hyperpigmentation worse.


Question: What type of hypopigmentation is vitiligo?

Answer: Hyperpigmentation in skin is caused by an increase in melanin, the substance in the body that is responsible for color (pigment). Examples of hypopigmentation include: Vitiligo: Vitiligo causes smooth, white patches on the skin. It is an autoimmune disorder in which the pigment-producing cells are damaged. There is no cure for vitiligo, but there are several treatments, including cosmetic cover-ups, corticosteroid creams, calcineurin inhibitors ( Elidel cream, Protopic ointment) or ultraviolet light treatments. New topical treatments using Janus Kinase inhibitors are being investigated.


Question: What is pigmentation?

Answer: When a person is healthy, his or her skin color will appear normal. In the case of illness or injury, the person's skin may change color, becoming darker (hyperpigmentation) or lighter (hypopigmentation). Pigmentation loss as a result of skin damage: If you've had a skin infection, blisters, burns, or other trauma to your skin, you may have a loss of pigmentation in the affected area.


Question: Which drugs can cause hyperpigmentation?

Answer: When a person is healthy, his or her skin color will appear normal. Hyperpigmentation in skin is caused by an increase in melanin, the substance in the body that is responsible for color (pigment). Hyperpigmentation can also be caused by various drugs, including some antibiotics, antiarrhythmics, and antimalarial drugs. Melasma sometimes goes away after pregnancy.


Question: What is adult-onset Still's disease?

Answer: Adult Still's develops most often in people before age 45, but can first occur in later years as well. The cause of Still's is unknown and there are no known risk factors. Corticosteroids are used for systemic disease that affects several parts of the body.


Question: What is the treatment for adult-onset Still's disease?

Answer: Early treatment for adult-onset Still's disease is aimed at controlling symptoms of arthritis with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs). With a firm diagnosis of adult-onset Still's disease, you may require corticosteroids, such as prednisone, if your disease is severe or doesn't respond to NSAIDs. Because of potential serious side effects, though, you can't use them for a very long time. If you have a chronic case of Still's, you may need medications to suppress your immune system and to control arthritis and other symptoms.


Question: How is adult-onset Still's disease diagnosed?

Answer: Before confirming your diagnosis, your doctor will need to rule out other problems. A medical history and physical exam are often the first steps. You may need a variety of blood tests to check for inflammation, changes in blood cell counts, iron levels, and liver enzymes, for example. Imaging tests check for inflammation or enlargement of certain organs. The course of the disease is difficult to predict. With a firm diagnosis of adult-onset Still's disease, you may require corticosteroids, such as prednisone, if your disease is severe or doesn't respond to NSAIDs.


Question: How can I better manage adult-onset Still's disease?

Answer: For example, symptoms may come and go. Before confirming your diagnosis, your doctor will need to rule out other problems. This may help you minimize the number of "bad" days you have. Also, remember that this disease comes in cycles. Don't stop taking your medications during times when you're feeling better unless you've discussed this ahead of time with your doctor.


Question: What are the treatments for arrhythmias?

Answer: It can speed up your heart rate when you need it, like when you exercise or get sick, or even when you feel happy. If the arrhythmia doesn't happen often, your doctor will give you a Holter monitor or an "event recorder," which you can turn on when you feel the symptoms. For instance, a surgeon may place an implanted cardioverter defibrillator ( ICD) in your chest or belly. It will track your heart and reset your heart rhythm if it has a problem. Often, the ICD also works as a pacemaker to prevent you from developing a slow heart rate and to help your heart beat properly.


Question: What are bed-wetting alarms?

Answer: With bed-wetting alarms, a special moisture sensor placed in the child's pajamas triggers a bell or buzzer to go off at the start of urination. The alarm is designed to awaken the child so he or she can get to the toilet and finish urinating. In the first few weeks of use, however, it is usually a parent who is awakened by the alarm and wakes the child to use the bathroom. Although bed-wetting alarms require time to work, they are a highly effective bed-wetting treatment when children and parents are willing to make the commitment to using them consistently.


Question: How expensive are bed-wetting alarms?

Answer: Bed-wetting alarms are among the most effective and safest bed-wetting treatments. They range in price from about $50 to more than $150. You don't need a prescription to get a bed-wetting alarm.


Question: Should I think about what's stressing me if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Keep pictures on your desk or a slideshow of pictures on your computer that relax you. Think about what's stressing you. We often try to push stuff out of our heads to calm down. Did your boss say something that upset you? Once you have a clearer sense of the problem, you can come up with a solution. You'll feel more in control and less tense.


Question: Should I focus on a soothing image to relieve stress if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Keep pictures on your desk or a slideshow of pictures on your computer that relax you. Keep a bottle of scented hand lotion on your desk and use it when you need a little "aromatherapy." What is it that bothers you?


Question: Should I write in a journal to relieve stress if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Take a few deep breaths with your eyes closed or open. If keeping a journal feels awkward, write an email about your feelings to your best friend. When you're done, you can decide to send it or just keep it to yourself. What is it that bothers you?


Question: Do olives help your health?

Answer: This eating style has been linked to better health and a lower risk of chronic diseases. Olive leaves have also been used historically in the Middle East as an herbal treatment for various health problems. But there is very little scientific evidence supporting its use. Olives and olive oil are available in supermarkets. Olive leaf is used for making tea in some parts of the world.


Question: What are some key terms on the label for vitamins and minerals?

Answer: For example, here are some guidelines set up by the Institute of Medicine: The RDA ( Recommended Dietary Allowance) and the AI ( Adequate Intake) are the amounts of a vitamin or mineral you need to keep healthy and stay well-nourished. They're tailored to women, men, and specific age groups. The UL ( Tolerable Upper Intake Level) is the maximum amount of daily vitamins and minerals that you can safely take without risk of an overdose or serious side effects. Separate from the RDA and the UL, the Food and Drug Administration uses a different measure for the nutrients you need: The DV ( Daily Value) is the only measurement you'll find on food and supplement labels. That number is the amount of a vitamin or nutrient that you should get for top health from a diet of 2,000 calories a day. The DV is sometimes the same as the RDA.


Question: How do you know when it's OK to take more vitamins and minerals than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) or daily value (DV)?

Answer: The UL ( Tolerable Upper Intake Level) is the maximum amount of daily vitamins and minerals that you can safely take without risk of an overdose or serious side effects. One way is to look for the UL (tolerable upper intake level) of a nutrient.


Question: What cautions should I take with vitamins and minerals?

Answer: High doses of vitamin A -- and other fat-soluble vitamins like E and K -- can build up in the body and become toxic. Supplements are designed to be additions to your diet. Many nutrients, in too high a dose, can be dangerous.


Question: How does blood clot?

Answer: Platelets form a plug. Tiny bits in your blood called platelets get "turned on" by triggers released when a blood vessel is damaged. They stick to the walls in the area and each other, changing shape to form a plug that fills in the broken part to stop blood from leaking out. When activated, platelets also release chemicals to attract more platelets and other cells, and to set off the next step. The clot grows. Proteins in your blood called clotting factors signal each other to cause a rapid chain reaction. It ends with a dissolved substance in your blood turning into long strands of fibrin. These get tangled up with the platelets in the plug to create a net that traps even more platelets and cells. The clot becomes much tougher and more durable. Reactions stop its growth. Other proteins offset extra clotting factor proteins so the clot doesn't spread farther than it needs to. Your body slowly breaks it down. As the damaged tissue heals, you don't need the clot any more. The tough fibrin strands dissolve, and your blood takes back the platelets and cells of the clot.


Question: How can surgery and other procedures treat heart valve disease?

Answer: The diagnostic tests your heart doctor orders help to identify the location, type, and extent of heart valve disease. Surgical options include heart valve repair or replacement. Valves can be repaired or replaced with traditional heart valve surgery or a minimally invasive heart valve surgery. Heart valves may also be repaired by other procedures such as percutaneous balloon valvuloplasty. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement ( TAVR) is a newer surgical option. Mitra Clip is a less invasive procedure in which a clip helps the mitral valve close more completely. Here are some tips to stay healthy: Know the type and extent of your heart valve disease.


Question: How do you live healthily with heart valve disease?

Answer: To protect yourself: Tell your doctors and dentist you have heart valve disease. Here are some tips to stay healthy: Know the type and extent of your heart valve disease. Tell all your doctors and dentist you have valve disease. Call the doctor if you have symptoms of an infection. Take good care of teeth and gums. Take antibiotics before you undergo any procedure that may cause bleeding. Carry a wallet card that may be obtained from the American Heart Association with specific antibiotic guidelines. Take your medications. Drugs are used to control symptoms and help the heart pump blood more efficiently. Follow your doctor's instructions about how and when to take medications. See your heart doctor for regular visits, even if you have no symptoms. Appointments may be scheduled once a year or more often, if your doctor feels you need to be followed more closely.


Question: What are other types of medications that can lead to heartburn?

Answer: A number of foods and drinks can cause the LES to relax. They include: An asthma medicine called theophylline, taken by mouth Sedatives Narcotic painkillers Progesterone, a hormone found in some birth control pills Medicines for Parkinson's disease Tricyclic antidepressants Certain supplements such as iron and potassium Chemotherapy drugs and a class of osteoporosis medicines called bisphosphates can injure the lining of the esophagus and make heartburn more likely. Taking your osteoporosis medicine with a big glass of water and avoiding lying down for 30 minutes to an hour helps to prevent problems.


Question: How can exercises trigger heartburn?

Answer: This allows time for the food to pass out of the stomach and into the small intestine, rather than having it back up into the esophagus. Keep in mind that leg lifts also work the abdominal muscles and may aggravate heartburn symptoms too. Activities such as headstands and yoga moves like downward dog can reverse the natural flow of stomach contents and may trigger heartburn. Jarring exercises, such as jogging or aerobics, can slosh stomach contents around and upward if you have a weak LES. But never exercise on a full stomach. Doing so increases abdominal pressure, which makes heartburn more likely. Food takes several hours to digest so it really is a matter of what works for you. Most experts recommend waiting about two hours after eating before working out.


Question: What medications can trigger heartburn?

Answer: Heartburn is no reason not to exercise. But regular use of aspirin or a popular class of painkillers called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) may irritate the esophagus. NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen, and prescription Cox-2 inhibitors such as Celebrex. These drugs are often used to treat arthritis. Several different types of blood pressure medicines can also cause heartburn. Many blood pressure and heart disease medicines, including calcium channel blockers and nitrates, relax the LES muscle, making it easy for your stomach acids to retreat backwards. Always tell your doctor if a new prescription or over-the-counter medicine gives you heartburn or makes your heartburn worse.


Question: How does the immune system work?

Answer: Usually, cells of the immune system defend the body from harmful microbes -- bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other foreign substances -- that have entered it. This immune system response causes inflammation. Inflammation subsides. If the gene has changed or mutated in some way, your body's reaction to microbes may also be different from the normal reaction.


Question: How does the immune system in a person with Crohn's disease work?

Answer: This immune system response causes inflammation. For some reason, though, people with Crohn's disease have an immune system that reacts inappropriately. The immune system may be defending the body against helpful microbes by mistake.


Question: What is ALS?

Answer: A French doctor named Jean- Martin Charcot discovered the condition in 1869. var s_context; s_context= s_context || {}; s_context['wb.modimp'] = 'vidfloat'; if(webmd.useragent && webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop'){ webmd.ads2.disable Initial Load(); webmd.ads2.disable Ads Init = true; $(function() { webmd.p.pim.increment(); $('.responsive-video-container').insert After('.module-social-share-container'); require(['video2/1/responsive-player/video-loader'], function(video Loader) { video Loader.init({ autoplay: webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop' && ! !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(); }); } ALS is a progressive disease, which means it gets worse over time. It affects nerves in your brain and spinal cord that control your muscles. As your muscles get weaker, it gets harder for you to walk, talk, eat, and breathe. Some others include: primary lateral sclerosis ( PLS) progressive bulbar palsy ( PBP) pseudobulbar palsy With ALS, motor neurons in your brain and spinal cord break down and die. It affects up to 95% of people with the disease.


Question: What are some other motor neuron diseases besides ALS?

Answer: Some others include: primary lateral sclerosis ( PLS) progressive bulbar palsy ( PBP) pseudobulbar palsy With ALS, motor neurons in your brain and spinal cord break down and die. One change is to a gene that makes a protein called SOD1.


Question: What is evening primrose oil?

Answer: There is some good research showing that evening primrose oil may be helpful in eczema or atopic dermatitis. And some studies suggest that supplements that contain gamma-linolenic acid ( GLA), including evening primrose oil, may be of some benefit to people with rheumatoid arthritis. However, it is most concentrated in plant oils such as evening primrose oil and borage oil.


Question: What are some precautions for taking evening primrose oil?

Answer: Several other drug interactions have been noted. Evening primrose oil may cause seizures if used with anesthesia. The U. S. Food and Drug Administration ( FDA) does regulate dietary supplements; however, it treats them like foods rather than medications. Unlike drug manufacturers, the makers of supplements don't have to show their products are safe or effective before selling them on the market.


Question: Should I avoid certain food or drugs while taking Aldactone for heart failure?

Answer: Aldactone, an aldosterone inhibitor, is a potassium-sparing diuretic. Side effects you may experience with Aldactone include: Extreme tiredness: This side effect may be strongest when you first start taking Aldactone. Before this drug is prescribed, tell your doctor about all the other medications you are taking, particularly other drugs for high blood pressure, Sandimmune, potassium-containing drugs, digoxin, or lithium. Before this medication is prescribed, tell your doctor if you have diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, gout, a history of kidney stones, menstrual problems, or breast enlargement. Follow your doctor's dietary advice, which may include: following a low-sodium diet, or including (or avoiding) high-potassium foods (such as bananas and orange juice) in your diet.


Question: How is Aldactone used to treat heart failure?

Answer: Aldactone is usually prescribed to prevent heart failure symptoms from becoming worse. Aldactone protects the heart by blocking a certain chemical (aldosterone) in the body that causes salt and fluid build-up. When receiving aldactone, you may be given a low dose that does not provide enough diuretic effects by itself. Your doctor may prescribe another type of diuretic in addition to aldactone. Here are some guidelines for taking food and medicine with Aldactone: Aldactone is generally prescribed in combination with an ACE inhibitor, digoxin, other diuretic and beta-blocker.


Question: What is Aldactone?

Answer: Aldactone is usually prescribed to prevent heart failure symptoms from becoming worse. Here are some guidelines for taking food and medicine with Aldactone: Aldactone is generally prescribed in combination with an ACE inhibitor, digoxin, other diuretic and beta-blocker.


Question: What are other Aldactone guidelines?

Answer: The number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and how long you need to take the medication will depend on your condition. Call your doctor if you gain 2 pounds in one day or 5 pounds in one week. While taking this drug, have your blood pressure and kidney function tested regularly, as advised by your doctor. Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory so that your response to this medication can be monitored.


Question: What are the symptoms of ischemic colitis?

Answer: You may notice: Bloody poop Pain on your left side Urgent need to go Diarrhea Nausea Swollen belly Doctors often can't pinpoint the cause of ischemic colitis. This condition results from a blocked artery. If you have ischemic colitis and have pain on your right side or sudden belly pain that's so severe you can't find a comfortable position, head to the ER or call 911. The artery feeding the right side of your colon also feeds part of the small intestine. A blockage there can quickly damage or kill tissue. If this life-threatening situation occurs, you'll need surgery to clear the blockage and to remove the damaged part of the intestine.


Question: When are you more likely to get leg cramps?

Answer: While they can strike people of all ages, if you're 50 or older you might get them more often. Stand too long on hard surfaces. Drink plenty of water.


Question: What are the sex- and age- related prevalence of leg cramps?

Answer: While they can strike people of all ages, if you're 50 or older you might get them more often. If you have frequent and severe leg cramps, talk to your doctor.


Question: How can gum disease be prevented?

Answer: Family history of dental disease can be a contributing factor for the development of gingivitis. Proper plaque control consists of professional cleanings at least twice a year and daily brushing and flossing. Brushing eliminates plaque from the surfaces of the teeth that can be reached; flossing removes food particles and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gum line. Antibacterial mouth rinses can reduce bacteria that cause plaque and gum disease, according to the American Dental Association.


Question: Is gum disease linked to other health problems?

Answer: The body's immune system fights the bacteria as the plaque spreads and grows below the gum line. In some people, gum disease may affect only certain teeth, such as the molars. Treatment options depend on the stage of disease, how you may have responded to earlier treatments, and your overall health. Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for development of periodontitis.


Question: When does atrial flutter occur?

Answer: It beats extra-fast, about 250-400 beats per minute. The beat slows down when the signals reach the AV node, a bundle of cells in the upper wall of muscle between the ventricles, your heart's lower chambers. Because atrial flutter comes from the atria, it is called a supraventricular (above the ventricles) tachycardia. ( This is called cardioversion.)


Question: Does atrial flutter increase your risk of getting a stroke?

Answer: Persistent atrial flutter is more or less permanent. Prevent stroke : This devastating complication of atrial flutter happens when a piece of a blood clot formed in your heart breaks off and travels to the brain, where it blocks blood flow. This lowers the odds that a blood clot will form in the heart or in a blood vessel and lead to a stroke. Atrial flutter does raise your chance of having a stroke.


Question: What should you do if you have symptoms of atrial flutter but your electrocardiogram results are normal?

Answer: Others describe: Palpitations (rapid heartbeat or a pounding or fluttering sensation in the chest) Shortness of breath Anxiety People with heart or lung disease who have atrial flutter may have these and other, more significant symptoms: Angina pectoris (chest or heart pains) Feeling faint or light-headed Syncope (fainting) Call your doctor: If you have any of the symptoms of atrial flutter If you're taking medication for atrial flutter, and you have any of the signs and symptoms described If you've been diagnosed and are being treated for atrial flutter, go immediately to a hospital emergency department if you: Have severe chest pain Feel faint or light-headed Faint When you tell him your symptoms, your doctor will probably suspect an arrhythmia. Also, you can't get treatment until the doctor knows your specific arrhythmia type. That can happen because arrhythmia comes and goes. Or you may just have premature heartbeats, which aren't dangerous. This test can help your doctor find out if you have a significant arrhythmia and what type. If you have no serious symptoms, you may get medications by mouth. Atrial flutter does raise your chance of having a stroke.


Question: How is defibrillation used to treat atrial flutter?

Answer: That can happen because arrhythmia comes and goes. ( This is called cardioversion.) The goal of treatment is to convert the atrial flutter to a normal sinus rhythm and make sure it doesn't come back. The first step in treatment is to restore a normal rate and sinus rhythm. These will give you a mild electrical shock to get your heart's rhythm back to normal.


Question: How is catheter ablation (radiofrequency ablation) used to treat atrial flutter?

Answer: Atrial flutter results from an abnormal circuit inside the right atrium, or upper chamber of your heart. In some people, no root cause is ever found. Prevent stroke : This devastating complication of atrial flutter happens when a piece of a blood clot formed in your heart breaks off and travels to the brain, where it blocks blood flow. Radiofrequency ablation: This is a type of catheter ablation most often used for atrial flutter.


Question: What controls the beating of the heart?

Answer: The beat slows down when the signals reach the AV node, a bundle of cells in the upper wall of muscle between the ventricles, your heart's lower chambers. Because atrial flutter comes from the atria, it is called a supraventricular (above the ventricles) tachycardia. These tests can tell a lot about what's happening with your heart: Electrocardiogram ( EKG): Measures and records the electrical impulses that control your heartbeat Highlights problems in these impulses and abnormalities in the heart The tracings can help pinpoint the type of arrhythmia and where in the heart it comes from.


Question: What kinds of medications are used for atrial flutter?

Answer: It identifies heart valve problems, checks how well your ventricles work, and looks for blood clots in the atria. The goals are to control the heart rate, restore a normal sinus rhythm, prevent future episodes, and prevent stroke. The classes of medications used in atrial flutter are: Heart rate medicines: The most common way to treat atrial fibrillation is with drugs that control your heartbeat. Most people take a medication called digoxin ( Lanoxin). Some are called beta-blockers. These treatments are sometimes called chemical cardioversion: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) Anticoagulants: These drugs make your blood less able to clot. This lowers the odds that a blood clot will form in the heart or in a blood vessel and lead to a stroke.


Question: What does the heart do?

Answer: The beat slows down when the signals reach the AV node, a bundle of cells in the upper wall of muscle between the ventricles, your heart's lower chambers. But atrial flutter can result from: Diseases or other problems in the heart A disease elsewhere in your body that affects the heart Substances that change the way your heart transmits electrical impulses Heart diseases or problems that can cause atrial flutter include: Ischemia : Lower blood flow to the heart due to coronary heart disease, hardening of the arteries, or a blood clot Hypertension : High blood pressure Cardiomyopathy : Disease of the heart muscle Abnormal heart valves: Especially the mitral valve Hypertrophy: An enlarged chamber of the heart Open-heart surgery Diseases elsewhere in your body that affect the heart include: Hyperthyroidism : An overactive thyroid gland Pulmonary embolism : A blood clot in a blood vessel in the lungs Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ): A condition that lowers the amount of oxygen in your blood Substances that may contribute to atrial flutter include: Alcohol (wine, beer, or hard liquor) Stimulants like cocaine, amphetamines, diet pills, cold medicines, and even caffeine Some people have no symptoms at all with atrial flutter. They slow your heart rate and cut the strength of contractions.


Question: What is an atrial flutter?

Answer: Such problems, whether in the rhythm or speed of the heartbeat, are known as arrhythmias. But atrial flutter can result from: Diseases or other problems in the heart A disease elsewhere in your body that affects the heart Substances that change the way your heart transmits electrical impulses Heart diseases or problems that can cause atrial flutter include: Ischemia : Lower blood flow to the heart due to coronary heart disease, hardening of the arteries, or a blood clot Hypertension : High blood pressure Cardiomyopathy : Disease of the heart muscle Abnormal heart valves: Especially the mitral valve Hypertrophy: An enlarged chamber of the heart Open-heart surgery Diseases elsewhere in your body that affect the heart include: Hyperthyroidism : An overactive thyroid gland Pulmonary embolism : A blood clot in a blood vessel in the lungs Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD ): A condition that lowers the amount of oxygen in your blood Substances that may contribute to atrial flutter include: Alcohol (wine, beer, or hard liquor) Stimulants like cocaine, amphetamines, diet pills, cold medicines, and even caffeine Some people have no symptoms at all with atrial flutter.


Question: Is atrial flutter life-threatening?

Answer: Atrial flutter is a problem with way your heart beats. Complications of atrial flutter can be devastating, but treatment almost always prevents them.


Question: Why should heavy drinkers get a pneumonia vaccine?

Answer: As you age, your immune system doesn't work as well as it once did. If you have heart disease, diabetes, emphysema, asthma, or COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), you're more likely to have a weakened immune system, which makes you more likely to get pneumonia.


Question: What are the risks of getting a pneumonia vaccine?

Answer: If it's flu season, you can even get a pneumonia vaccine at the same time that you get a flu vaccine, as long as you receive each shot in a different arm. PCV13 helps protect people from 13 of the most severe types of bacteria that cause pneumonia. But some people have mild side effects from the vaccine, including: Swelling, soreness, or redness where you got the shot Mild fever Fussiness or irritability Loss of appetite Sore muscles Fewer than 1% of people who get the pneumonia vaccine have these types of side effects. Allergic reactions are even rarer.


Question: What is inside the candle after ear candling?

Answer: Place the candle in your ear canal. When studied, it was revealed that the contents were a blend of burned candle wax and fabric.


Question: What are some grooming checklist for caregivers for people with cancer?

Answer: A woman with cancer might feel more confident and in control when she takes care of how she looks. For safety, use an electric shaver. For someone getting chemotherapy, remind her to brush her teeth after she eats to avoid infection. Offer waxed dental floss, a soft-bristle toothbrush, and fluoride toothpaste without whitening or tartar control. Talk to her doctor about flossing if her gums bleed and she has low levels of platelets in her blood. Make a mouth rinse by mixing 1/2 teaspoon baking soda with 1 cup of water for her to use after each brush. Don't use store-bought mouthwash. It can have alcohol or chemicals that may irritate her mouth.


Question: What ways can I change the habits in my bathroom to better treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: In the Bathroom Use an elevated toilet seat or safety rails to make it easier to sit and stand. Do not use towel racks or bathroom tissue holders to help you stand. They're not sturdy enough. Install grab bars inside and outside the bathtub or shower. Use a bathtub transfer bench or a shower chair with back support. Put extended lever handles on faucets to make them easier to turn. Put a nonskid mat in the bathtub. Use a handheld hose for showering and bathing. Use a long-handled sponge or scrubbing brush. Use soap-on-a-rope, bath mitts, or sponges with soap inside instead of bar soap. Use lukewarm water. Very hot water can make you tired and aggravate your symptoms. Sew straps on towels to make them easier to hold while you dry yourself. Place a towel on the floor outside the tub to dry your feet so you don't slip. Put a towel on the back of your chair and rub your back against it to dry. Use toothbrushes with built-up handles or use an electric toothbrush. Use utensils with built-up, lightweight handles.


Question: How can Tay-Sachs disease be prevented?

Answer: Tay- Sachs disease is a rare, fatal disorder most commonly diagnosed in babies around 6 months of age. If both parents are carriers of Tay- Sachs disease, there is a 25% chance that any child they have will get the disease. You can have a blood test that analyzes your genes or the levels of the Hex- A protein in your blood to tell you whether you are a carrier. If two people planning to have children find out they're both carriers, a genetic counselor can help them review the options for lowering the chances of having a baby with Tay- Sachs.


Question: Who gets Tay-Sachs disease?

Answer: Tay- Sachs disease is a rare, fatal disorder most commonly diagnosed in babies around 6 months of age. But babies born with Tay- Sachs disease inherited a mutated copy of the gene from both parents, so they don't make any Hex- A protein. A baby born with Tay- Sachs grows normally until 3 to 6 months of age. Non- Jewish French Canadians living near the St. Lawrence River in Canada and in the Cajun community of Louisiana also have a higher incidence of Tay- Sachs. If both parents are carriers of Tay- Sachs disease, there is a 25% chance that any child they have will get the disease.


Question: What are symptoms of Tay-Sachs disease?

Answer: Tay- Sachs disease is a rare, fatal disorder most commonly diagnosed in babies around 6 months of age. A baby born with Tay- Sachs grows normally until 3 to 6 months of age. Around this time, parents might notice their baby's development start to slow and the muscles weaken. Gradually, the disease causes more symptoms in babies, including: A loss of motor skills such as turning over, sitting, and crawling A very strong reaction to loud noises Trouble focusing on objects or following them with their eyes Cherry-red spots, which can be identified with an eye examination, in the eyes By age 2, most children with Tay- Sachs have started getting more severe problems. They can include: Swallowing and breathing issues that keep getting worse Seizures Loss of mental function, hearing, and sight Paralysis Past age 3, there are few visible changes in children with Tay- Sachs, but the nervous system continues to go downhill, often leading to death by age 5.


Question: What should I expect from Tay-Sachs disease later in life?

Answer: Tay- Sachs disease is a rare, fatal disorder most commonly diagnosed in babies around 6 months of age. A baby born with Tay- Sachs grows normally until 3 to 6 months of age. Like the version of the disease that affects infants, the Tay- Sachs that starts later in life is caused by HEXA gene mutations. Symptoms might start to appear anywhere from the teen years to adulthood. Early symptoms often include clumsiness, problems balancing, and muscle weakness in the legs. People with it may also have mental health issues. Late-onset Tay- Sachs doesn't always shorten life span.


Question: What causes Tay-Sachs disease?

Answer: Tay- Sachs disease is a rare, fatal disorder most commonly diagnosed in babies around 6 months of age. Defects in a gene called HEXA cause Tay- Sachs. Some people have just one normal copy of the gene, and they still make enough Hex- A protein to keep the brain and spinal cord healthy. But babies born with Tay- Sachs disease inherited a mutated copy of the gene from both parents, so they don't make any Hex- A protein. This is what makes them become so sick. Over time, GM2 ganglioside builds up in their nervous system and starts to cause damage.


Question: What treatments and programs can help my child with Tay-Sachs disease?

Answer: Tay- Sachs disease is a rare, fatal disorder most commonly diagnosed in babies around 6 months of age. A baby born with Tay- Sachs grows normally until 3 to 6 months of age. They can provide ways to help your baby keep the suck-swallow reflex going as well as help you figure out when it is time to consider a feeding tube for your little one. These specialists can help you manage your baby's seizures with medication. Specialists such as pediatricians and pulmonologists (doctors who treat lung and breathing problems) can recommend ways for parents to reduce the chance of lung infections in their child. Play and stimulation. They can relax your baby. Palliative and hospice care.


Question: Should I follow the Mediterranean diet if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Until they do, planning your diet is simple. " But cutting back on them may be good for you in general, so it's worth trying. It's rich in fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and fish and other lean proteins. One study found that people who stuck to the diet for a few months had more energy and fewer RA symptoms.


Question: Do nutrients affect rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: But research shows that some foods are better for you than others. It's better for your heart and may block inflammation. Ask your doctor what's OK for you. Eating more of some of these healthy foods -- and cutting back on the unhealthy ones -- is a good idea.


Question: What are some ways to relax if you have ulcerative colitis?

Answer: Try 10 minutes in the morning and 10 minutes before you go to bed. Include some "me time" on your to-do list. Read a book. Spend some time in a park or your garden. Call a good friend. Take a yoga class. Try a new recipe. Use a foam roller or a tennis ball to unknot tense muscles. Take a warm shower or bath.


Question: Is exercise good for stress from ulcerative colitis?

Answer: Take several deep breaths whenever you feel stressed out. Studies show that exercise can also lower stress and relieve some UC symptoms. Depending on how severe your condition is, you may need to limit how much and how hard you exercise. Don't overdo it. Even a moderate 10-minute walk each day counts, and you'll feel better for it.


Question: Does stress trigger ulcerative colitis?

Answer: So make it a priority to notice and manage the things that get to you. Take a good look at how you respond. Then use these simple tips to tap into relaxation and relief. Studies show that exercise can also lower stress and relieve some UC symptoms.


Question: What lifestyle changes can help lower my triglyceride levels?

Answer: Your doctor will ask you to take a blood test, after fasting, to check your blood's triglyceride level. These simple steps may help: Lose extra weight. If you're overweight, work with your doctor to reach and keep a healthier weight. If you drink too much alcohol, your triglyceride levels may rise. In some people, even small amounts of alcohol may raise triglyceride levels. Cut back on sugar in desserts, drinks, and other foods. Get moving. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise on most days. Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids.


Question: Why do I need to be concerned about my triglyceride levels?

Answer: The good news is that you can do a lot to manage that risk. Did anyone in your family have a heart attack or stroke before age 50?


Question: How can you treat baby eczema with mild, unscented, laundry soaps?

Answer: Think scratchy wool clothes, polyester, perfumes, body soaps, and laundry soaps. Perfumed, deodorant, and antibacterial soaps can be rough on a baby's sensitive skin.


Question: What can make eczema worse?

Answer: Not sure if your baby's itchy, irritated rash is eczema? But there are some common eczema triggers to avoid, including: Dry skin . It can make a baby more itchy. Low humidity, especially during winter when homes are well-heated and the air is dry, is a cause. Irritants. Think scratchy wool clothes, polyester, perfumes, body soaps, and laundry soaps. These can all trigger symptoms. Stress. Children with eczema may react to stress by flushing. That can lead to itchy, irritated skin. And that, in turn, ramps up their eczema symptoms. Heat and sweat. Both can make the itch of infant eczema worse. Allergens. It's not certain, but some experts believe that removing cow's milk, peanuts, eggs, or certain fruits from a child's food may help control eczema symptoms. Remember that your baby can get exposed to these foods if her mother eats them before she breastfeeds.


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

Answer: Some over-the-counter products, such as hydrocortisone creams and ointments, target itching and inflammation. It may be time for a prescription medicine. Also check with your doctor if yellow or light brown crust or pus-filled blisters appear on top of the eczema. This could be the sign of a bacterial infection that needs antibiotics. You should call your doctor if your baby is around anyone who has cold sores or genital herpes. Eczema can make your little one more likely to pick up those germs.


Question: What medicines can you use to treat baby eczema?

Answer: The skin is almost always itchy and rough, too. But there are some key differences. Make the call if your baby's eczema doesn't begin to get better within a week of starting over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams.


Question: How can you tell if your baby has eczema and not cradle cap?

Answer: It's easy to confuse baby eczema (also called infant eczema or atopic dermatitis) with cradle cap. Cradle cap is much less red and scaly. But there are some common eczema triggers to avoid, including: Dry skin . These are available over the counter and by prescription.


Question: What can you do to treat baby eczema at home?

Answer: Give your little one's skin some TLC. Clean carefully. Use soap only where your baby may be dirty, such as the genitals, hands, and feet. Simply rinse off the rest of your child's body. Dry off. Pat skin dry. Don't rub.


Question: How is inflammatory breast cancer treated?

Answer: Inflammatory breast cancer ( IBC) is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that often appears as a rash or an irritated area of skin. This type of cancer is usually in one of three stages: Stage IIIB: All Inflammatory breast cancers start in this stage since they involve the skin of your breast. It may include: Chemotherapy . This drug treatment is given before surgery to shrink the tumor and make the cancer operable. It also lowers the chance the cancer will come back. Surgery. A mastectomy may be performed after chemotherapy. Hormone therapy. Certain medications may be given if the cancer cells have hormone receptors. These medicines block the receptors so they can't attach to the hormones. Radiation . Often, radiation treatments are given after chemotherapy and surgery to lower the chance of the cancer coming back.


Question: What tests are used to diagnose inflammatory breast cancer?

Answer: When compared to other forms of the disease, inflammatory breast cancer: Looks different -- often there are no lumps, but your breast might appear red, swollen, or inflamed Is harder to diagnose -- it doesn't show up well on a mammogram Is more aggressive and spreads more quickly than other types Tends to be diagnosed at a younger age, especially among African- American women Is more likely to affect overweight women Is often further along (your doctor may call this locally advanced, meaning it's moved into nearby skin) when it's diagnosed Has often spread past the breast (your doctor will say it has metastasized) when it's diagnosed, which makes it harder to treat Unlike more common types of breast cancer, this type generally doesn't show up as a lump. It's a powerful X-ray that makes detailed pictures inside your body. PET scan . Used together with a CT scan, this test can help find cancer in lymph nodes and other areas of the body. If you're diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer, more tests can show how much of the breast and the area around it is affected.


Question: How does Crohn's disease occur?

Answer: The disease, though, can occur in any part of the gastrointestinal system. Thus, the disorder may affect the large or small intestine, the stomach, the esophagus, or even the mouth. Crohn's can occur at any age. It is most commonly diagnosed in people who are between the ages of 15 and 30. An upper endoscopy may also be used to look down the esophagus, into the stomach and the first part of the small intestine, the duodenum.


Question: What kinds of drugs are used to treat Crohn's disease?

Answer: The first step usually involves reducing inflammation. Many people are first treated with sulfasalazine ( Azulfidine). Mesalamine ( Asacol, Canasa, Pentasa) is another 5-aminosalicylic acid, or 5- ASA medication. Possible side effects of sulfasalazine and other mesalamine-containing drugs may include: nausea vomiting diarrhea heartburn headache If a person does not respond to sulfasalazine, the doctor may prescribe other types of drugs that contain 5- ASA. These other products include: olsalazine ( Dipentum) balsalazide ( Colazal, Giazol) mesalamine ( Asacol, Lialda, Pentasa, and others) Corticosteroids such as prednisone are another class of drugs that reduce inflammation. These drugs are also used to treat other immune system disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.


Question: What can I do to help allergy-proof my home?

Answer: If you can, choose wooden blinds instead of drapes. Consider hardwood floors instead of wall-to-wall carpeting or rugs, which can trap allergens. Don't clean the bedroom in the evening. It can take 2 hours or more for the dust to settle after a clean-up gets it moving. You love them, but the dander in their fur can set off your symptoms. Clear the bedroom of extra pillows, linens, stuffed animal collections, and dust-collecting knickknacks. Vacuum at least once a week. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter and pay special attention to the bedroom.


Question: What tests are used for diagnosing headaches?

Answer: Possible additional tests you may be given include diagnostic tests. Keep in mind that most of these laboratory tests are not helpful in diagnosing migraine, cluster, or tension headaches. Blood Chemistry and Urinalysis.


Question: When will the doctor be able to determine the cause of my headache?

Answer: After completing the headache history portion of the evaluation, the doctor will perform a complete physical and neurological exam. Possible additional tests you may be given include diagnostic tests.


Question: Should I watch over my blood sugar while exercising with diabetes?

Answer: You'll want to work closely with your doctor or diabetes educator, because your blood sugar, insulin, and medications will need special attention while you're losing weight. To help yourself lose weight you'll need to do more physical activity.


Question: If I have diabetes and want to lose weight, how often should I work out?

Answer: You'll want to work closely with your doctor or diabetes educator, because your blood sugar, insulin, and medications will need special attention while you're losing weight. She can let you know if there are any limits on what you can do. You should also do strength training at least twice a week. You can use weight machines at a gym, hand weights, or even your own body weight (think push-ups, lunges, and squats).


Question: If I have diabetes, which exercise can affect my blood sugar?

Answer: If you're overweight and have type 2 diabetes, you will lower your blood sugar, improve your health, and feel better if you lose some of your extra pounds. Weightlifting or working out hard for a long time may affect your blood sugar level many hours later. This can be a problem, especially if you're driving a car after your workout. It's one of the many reasons you should check your blood sugar before you get behind the wheel. It's also a good idea to carry snacks like fruit, crackers, juice, and soda.


Question: What is premature menopause?

Answer: In the U. S., the average age of onset for "natural" menopause is 51. Menopause that occurs before this age, whether natural or induced, is known as "premature" menopause. However, compared with women who go through natural menopause, women undergoing premature menopause spend a greater portion of their lives without the protective benefits of their own estrogen.


Question: What is a post-void residual urine test?

Answer: There are two ways to do a post-void residual urine test: Catheter: A nurse slides a thin, flexible tube called a catheter through your urethra (where pee comes out) and into your bladder, then takes out the urine. For example, if you're obese, the machine may not be able to get clear pictures of your bladder.


Question: How does the ultrasound method for a post-void residual urine test work?

Answer: Ultrasound: A machine uses sound waves to show live images of your bladder so your doctor can see how much urine is there. A nurse will ask you to pee right before the test. Pictures of your bladder will show up on a monitor, and your doctor will use them to measure the urine there. This method has a few advantages over the catheter method. The nurse doesn't need to see your private parts. It's safer for children and doesn't stress them out as much. But an ultrasound might not work for some people. For example, if you're obese, the machine may not be able to get clear pictures of your bladder.


Question: When is fistula surgery done for anal abscesses?

Answer: Surgery is needed to cure almost all anal fistulas. So fistula surgery is usually a separate procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis or with a short hospital stay.


Question: What causes an anal abscess?

Answer: In some cases, an anal fistula causes persistent drainage. These include: An anal fissure, a tear in the anal canal, that becomes infected Sexually transmitted infections Blocked anal glands Risk factors for anal abscesses include: Colitis Inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis Diabetes Diverticulitis Pelvic inflammatory disease Being the receptive partner in anal sex Use of medications such as prednisone For adults, using condoms during sexual intercourse, including anal intercourse, can help prevent anal abscesses.


Question: What are triglycerides and how are they linked to heart disease?

Answer: So you can be completely unaware that your cholesterol levels are getting too high. In addition to the numbers, the doctor will factor in your age, blood pressure, smoking history, and use of blood pressure medicines.


Question: How do you find out what your cholesterol numbers are?

Answer: Your blood is supposed to carry oxygen to all parts of your body, including your heart muscle. The test will show you your: Total cholesterol level LDL level HDL level Triglycerides level Your numbers will help you and your doctor determine not only your risk for heart disease but also the best options for lowering it. If your doctor prescribes statins, you should discuss the percentage by which you should lower your cholesterol.


Question: What are non medical causes of hair loss?

Answer: In some cases, hair loss can be a symptom of too much vitamin A. Many newborns lose their hair during the first few months of life, and baby hair is replaced by permanent hair. Between 3 and 6 months of age, many babies have a bald spot resulting from friction with the crib mattress or car seat. Once your child starts sitting up, any lost hair should return. Vigorous brushing or pulling the hair into tight pony tails or braids can cause it to fall out.


Question: How do you know if your mole is a sign of skin cancer?

Answer: Moles that are of greater medical concern include those that look different than other existing moles or those that first appear in adulthood. If you notice changes in a mole's color or appearance, you should have a dermatologist evaluate it. You also should have moles checked if they bleed, ooze, itch, appear scaly, or become tender or painful. Also, if you have any new moles that you think look suspicious, see your doctor.


Question: What should you look for when examining your moles for skin cancer?

Answer: Moles can be linked to skin cancer. If a mole displays any of the signs listed below, have it checked immediately by a dermatologist: Asymmetry: One half of the mole does not match the other half Border: The border or edges of the mole are ragged, blurred, or irregular Color: The mole has different colors or it has shades of tan, brown, black, blue, white, or red Diameter: The diameter of the mole is larger than the eraser of a pencil Evolving: The mole appears different from others and/or changing in size, color, shape Keep in mind that some melanomas may be smaller or not fit other characteristics. Keep these tips in mind when screening your moles for skin cancer: Use a full-length mirror if you have one. Start at your head and work your way down, looking at all the areas of your body (including the front, backs, and sides of each area, and your fingernails and toenails).


Question: Why do people take cordyceps?

Answer: Cordyceps has long been a traditional treatment in Chinese medicine. However, more research is needed to determine if cordyceps has real benefit on human health. The best dose of cordyceps hasn't been set for any condition. Ask your health care provider for advice.


Question: What are risks of taking cordyceps?

Answer: Side effects. Cordyceps is generally safe, but it may cause upset stomach, nausea, and dry mouth in some people. Don't take cordyceps if you have cancer, diabetes, or a bleeding disorder. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and children should avoid cordyceps. We don't know if cordyceps is safe for them. If you take any medicines regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using cordyceps supplements.


Question: What is cordyceps?

Answer: In Chinese medicine, people take cordyceps as a daily treatment for good health. Studies have also shown that cordyceps may boost athletic endurance and tolerance to high-intensity exercise.


Question: What are side effects of taking cordyceps?

Answer: Side effects. Cordyceps is generally safe, but it may cause upset stomach, nausea, and dry mouth in some people. Don't take cordyceps if you have cancer, diabetes, or a bleeding disorder. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and children should avoid cordyceps. We don't know if cordyceps is safe for them. If you take any medicines regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using cordyceps supplements.


Question: What are some precautions about taking cordyceps?

Answer: Cordyceps has long been a traditional treatment in Chinese medicine. It comes from a bizarre source: a fungus that grows on caterpillars. Some people use it to try to boost energy and improve well-being. However, we don't have much research about whether cordyceps has health benefits. Cordyceps is generally safe, but it may cause upset stomach, nausea, and dry mouth in some people. Don't take cordyceps if you have cancer, diabetes, or a bleeding disorder. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and children should avoid cordyceps.


Question: What is cordyceps and why do people take it?

Answer: Cordyceps has long been a traditional treatment in Chinese medicine. It comes from a bizarre source: a fungus that grows on caterpillars. Studies have also shown that cordyceps may boost athletic endurance and tolerance to high-intensity exercise. This makes it hard to set a standard dose. Cordyceps is not found in foods.


Question: How can applying heat and cold help with psoriatic arthritis?

Answer: You want to do something about your sore and swollen joints. Moist heat can also help relax aching muscles and ease soreness and stiffness. Use a warm towel, heat pack, or paraffin bath, or take a warm (not hot) bath or shower. Cold therapy can bring down swelling and numb pain. Use a bag of ice or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel.


Question: How can relieving stress help with psoriatic arthritis?

Answer: Before you start a new kind of exercise, talk to your doctor to make sure it's safe for you. Spas and clinics offer massages, or you could have a massage therapist come to your home. Little day-to-day things can add up. Exercise can help you work off stress and boost your mood. Meditation can help you feel calm and clear-headed. Because deep breathing and focus are parts of yoga and tai chi, these practices offer the perks of both exercise and meditation. Aromatherapy can also help you relax. If your worries are getting in the way of your life or seem overwhelming, consider talking to a counselor or therapist.


Question: How may clinical trials help with invasive breast cancer?

Answer: Some women may have a combination of both or a different type of invasive breast cancer. These trials test new drugs or treatment combinations to see if they are safe and if they work. Your doctor can tell you if one of these trials might be a good fit for you.


Question: What are the signs of invasive breast cancer?

Answer: Women in the U. S. have a 1 in 8 chance of developing an invasive form of breast cancer during their lifetime. Or cancer cells may spread anywhere in the body. By doing a regular self-check of your breast, you can become familiar with the normal changes in your breasts.


Question: How likely are women to get invasive breast cancer?

Answer: It can then spread into the nearby lymph nodes and beyond. ILC starts in the lobules or milk glands and then spreads. With ILC, most women feel a thickening instead of a lump in their breast.


Question: What does the treatment for invasive breast cancer include?

Answer: There are effective treatments. They include: Surgery. A lumpectomy is a surgical procedure in which a surgeon removes the cancer and a small area of healthy tissue around it. A mastectomy may be performed after chemotherapy. This procedure removes all of your breast. Chemotherapy. This drug treatment may be done before surgery to shrink the tumor and make the cancer operable. It's also sometimes given after surgery to try to prevent he cancer from coming back. Radiation . Often, radiation treatments are given after chemotherapy and surgery to prevent the cancer from coming back. Hormone therapy. Certain medications may be given if the cancer cells have hormone receptors. Targeted therapy. If the cancer cells have the gene HER2, you may be given drug treatments specifically for that.


Question: What increases the risk of invasive breast cancer?

Answer: There's no way to know if you'll develop an invasive form of breast cancer, but there are things that increase your chances, many of which you can't change. Older women are at higher risk. About 10% of women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer are under age 45. Also, you're at higher risk if you're obese, your breasts are dense, you didn't have children, or you became pregnant after the age of 35. Different things will determine the type of breast cancer treatment your doctor recommends, including: Size of the tumor Location of the tumor Results of lab tests done on the cancer cells Stage of the cancer Your age and general health If you've been through menopause Your own feelings about the treatment options Family history Results of tests for a gene mutation that would increase the risk of breast cancer There are many treatments for invasive breast cancer. Women with invasive breast cancer have more promise for a good outcome than ever before.


Question: Are there nonsurgical treatment options for spinal compression fractures?

Answer: But the pain usually improves significantly in a matter of days or weeks. Pain management may include analgesic pain medicines, bed rest, back bracing, and physical activity. " We do everything we can to make the operation go as smoothly as possible," says Marco. "


Question: Are vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty used to treat spinal compression fractures?

Answer: But with two small incisions we can take care of something that needed a huge operation in the past but without really good results." And a special x-ray machine helps us get the needle into the bone and assure that cement goes into the bone and stays in the bone."


Question: Is osteoporosis treatment used to treat spinal compression fractures?

Answer: Some may need further treatment, such as surgery. This is a critical part of treatment to help prevent further compression fractures.


Question: Is back bracing used to treat spinal compression fractures?

Answer: A back brace provides external support to limit the motion of fractured vertebrae -- much like applying a cast on a broken wrist. The rigid style of a back brace limits spine-related motion significantly, which may help reduce pain. However, braces should be used cautiously and only under a doctor's supervision. Weakening and loss of muscle can occur with excessive use of braces for lumbar conditions.


Question: What is the surgical treatment for spinal compression fractures?

Answer: Activity modification. Surgical procedures used to treat spinal fractures are: Vertebroplasty Kyphoplasty Spinal fusion surgery These procedures for spinal compression fractures involve small, minimally invasive incisions, so they require very little healing time.


Question: What are some non-surgical treatments for spinal compression fractures?

Answer: But the pain usually improves significantly in a matter of days or weeks. Pain management may include analgesic pain medicines, bed rest, back bracing, and physical activity. " We do everything we can to make the operation go as smoothly as possible," says Marco. "


Question: Do the majority of spinal compression fractures heal quickly?

Answer: Some may need further treatment, such as surgery. Pain medications.


Question: Is activity modification used to treat spinal compression fractures?

Answer: If osteoporosis has caused a spinal compression fracture, the treatment should address the pain, the fracture, and the underlying osteoporosis to prevent future fractures. Doctors may recommend a short period of bed rest for no more than a few days. However, prolonged inactivity should be avoided.


Question: How is triple-negative breast cancer treated?

Answer: One other thing about this kind of cancer: It doesn't respond to some of the medications that work for other types. This is called a biopsy. Triple-negative breast cancer is typically treated with a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Surgery can be one of two types.


Question: When do you need surgery to treat triple-negative breast cancer?

Answer: Your doctor can use chemo in one of two ways: Neoadjuvant therapy is when you get chemo before surgery to help shrink the tumor and make the operation easier. Many doctors think that because triple-negative breast cancer is aggressive, it's best to do a mastectomy to remove the entire breast. This tends to happen if: You have several tumors The cancer is in your skin You have a tumor in your nipple You already had cancer in that breast The tumor is large There are calcium deposits or other abnormal cells in your breast But there hasn't been a lot of research on the subject. Your doctor may decide it's OK to do a lumpectomy and remove only the tumor and the tissues around it.


Question: How is chemotherapy used to treat triple-negative breast cancer?

Answer: This is called a biopsy. It might take a couple of weeks to get biopsy results. Chemotherapy, a medicine that kills cancer cells, will likely be the first thing your doctor tries. You can get it by a needle into a vein or in a pill. When it's caught early, this type of cancer may respond better to chemo than others do. Your doctor can use chemo in one of two ways: Neoadjuvant therapy is when you get chemo before surgery to help shrink the tumor and make the operation easier. You might get it if you have a large tumor or if your lymph nodes are involved. It depends on the size of your tumor, how quickly your cancer grows, and whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of your body.


Question: Where can you get support for triple-negative breast cancer?

Answer: What type of surgery will I need? In addition to information about the disease, organizations like the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org) and the Triple Negative Breast Cancer Foundation (www.tnbcfoundation.org) can connect you with support groups. You can also check online for groups that meet locally, either through a church or community center. Don't forget to tell the people around you what's going on -- and to ask for help when you need it. It's up to you who you tell and when, but the more you share with family and friends, the better equipped they'll be to lend a hand when you need it.


Question: What should you expect if you have triple-negative breast cancer?

Answer: Treatment may make triple-negative breast cancer go away. It depends on the size of your tumor, how quickly your cancer grows, and whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of your body. The treatments may cause side effects like nausea, vomiting, pain, fatigue, or mental fuzziness (which is sometimes called âchemo brainâ). In general, about 90% of all women with breast cancer are still alive 5 years after diagnosis. While there isn't much data for specific types of breast cancer, 5-year survival rates are tracked by stage at diagnosis -- or how far the cancer has spread: Regional (cancer has spread to lymph nodes near the breast): 85.3% Distant (cancer has metastasized): 27% Although triple-negative breast cancer is more likely to return to another part of your body than other forms, the risk that this will happen drops over time.


Question: What is the role of hormones in women?

Answer: Some women get the disease at times when their sex hormones are shifting, such as after pregnancy or before menopause. If you're pregnant, your RA may improve, but it might flare again after you have your baby. One study shows that women who breastfed for 2 years or more cut their risk of getting the disease in half.


Question: Why is it important to drink liquids when you're sick?

Answer: A sore throat can make it less than fun to swallow. A fever draws moisture out of your body. Plus, you lose fluid as your body makes mucus and it drains away. And that over-the-counter cold medicine you're taking to dry up your head? A side benefit: All that liquid helps loosen up the mucus in your nose and head. Stay away from booze, coffee, and caffeine when you're looking for things to sip though. They pull out more liquid than they leave behind. It's easy to confuse a cold with other ailments.


Question: Can you get sick from not sleeping enough?

Answer: Once you have a cold, you need to catch enough Zzz's to help your body fight off the virus. Take it extra easy during the first 3 days. Too little shut-eye can also make you more likely to get a cold. One study found that people who got less than 7 hours of sleep a night were nearly three times more likely to get sick than people who slept for 8 hours or more. Rest is what gives your immune system time to recharge.


Question: What are symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: It's the leading cause of blindness for all adults in the U. S. You might not have any signs of diabetic retinopathy until it becomes serious. When you do have symptoms, you might notice: Loss of central vision, which is used when you read or drive Not being able to see colors Blurry vision Holes or black spots in your vision Floaters, or small spots in your vision caused by bleeding If your blood glucose level (blood sugar) is too high for too long, it blocks off the small blood vessels that keep your retina healthy. Your doctor will tell you if any of these treatments are right for you.


Question: What are the symptoms of diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: It's the leading cause of blindness for all adults in the U. S. You might not have any signs of diabetic retinopathy until it becomes serious. When you do have symptoms, you might notice: Loss of central vision, which is used when you read or drive Not being able to see colors Blurry vision Holes or black spots in your vision Floaters, or small spots in your vision caused by bleeding If your blood glucose level (blood sugar) is too high for too long, it blocks off the small blood vessels that keep your retina healthy. Your doctor will tell you if any of these treatments are right for you.


Question: What is laser photocoagulation for diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: It can make your vision blurry. Your eye doctor can usually tell if you have diabetic retinopathy during your eye exam. It shows if any of your blood vessels are leaking or damaged.


Question: How is diabetic retinopathy treated?

Answer: It can make your vision blurry. It shows if any of your blood vessels are leaking or damaged. Scatter laser surgery. If blood vessels leak into your retina and vitreous humor and your vision clouds, you may need to have this procedure. It removes the leaked blood so you can see better. This can treat cloudy vision. Your doctor will tell you if any of these treatments are right for you.


Question: Is it common to get diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: When you do have symptoms, you might notice: Loss of central vision, which is used when you read or drive Not being able to see colors Blurry vision Holes or black spots in your vision Floaters, or small spots in your vision caused by bleeding If your blood glucose level (blood sugar) is too high for too long, it blocks off the small blood vessels that keep your retina healthy. If you have any form of diabetes -- type 1, type 2, or gestational -- you may get diabetic retinopathy. This can change the way your retina looks. You're more likely to get DME at later stages of diabetic retinopathy, but it can happen at any point. This will slow down diabetic retinopathy and maybe even stop it from happening.


Question: What sticky, chewy foods should your child avoid to keep his teeth healthy?

Answer: Raisins, dried figs, granola bars, oatmeal or peanut butter cookies, jelly beans, caramel, honey, molasses, and syrup stick to teeth making it difficult for saliva to wash away. If your child consumes these types of products, have him or her brush their teeth immediately after eating. Avoid sugary foods that linger on the teeth.


Question: Are pinworm infections contagious?

Answer: It's also easily spread to family members and caregivers. People who live in crowded spaces, like institutions, have a higher risk of getting pinworm infections. He might also prescribe medication to everyone in your household to prevent infection and re-infection.


Question: How can I prevent pinworm infection?

Answer: Female pinworms move to your anus area to lay their eggs. Wash your anal area in the morning to reduce the number of eggs on your body. Shower to prevent possible re-contamination in bath water. Don't bathe with anyone or share towels during treatment and for two weeks after final treatment. Change your underwear and bed linens each day. This helps remove eggs. Wash bedsheets, nightclothes, underwear, washcloths, and towels in hot water to kill pinworm eggs. Dry them on high heat. Don't scratch your anal area. Trim your child's nails so there's less space for eggs to collect. Discourage nail biting. Wash your hands with soap and water after using the bathroom, changing diapers, and before handling food. Teach your kids to do the same.


Question: How can stress and your emotions trigger migraine headaches?

Answer: Some people say they get migraine when their stress eases. Over the course of a few months, it can help you find patterns in when you get headaches and help you pinpoint what kinds of stress may make it more likely for you get them.


Question: What do blood thinners do?

Answer: They can protect against heart attacks and strokes. But they also come with risks: For example, they'll cause you to bleed more than usual when you cut yourself. Types of Blood Thinners There are two. But they do keep blood from forming new clots. They're often prescribed to people at risk for future blood clots, rather than to treat existing ones.


Question: What are some considerations associated with taking blood thinners?

Answer: The lifesaving benefits of these drugs often outweigh the potential dangers. ( DVT is a dangerous type of blood clot that often forms in the leg.) If you get a dangerous bleeding problem while taking warfarin, doctors can turn to an "antidote" of vitamin K or a combination of prothrombin complex concentrate ( PCC) and fresh frozen plasma to stop it. In addition, approval has been given for using a reversal agent like andexanet alfa ( Andexxa) to reverse the anti-clotting effects of apixaban ( Eliquis) and rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) or idarucizumab ( Praxbind) to reverse the anti-clotting effects of dabigatran etexilate ( Pradaxa). Tell all of your doctors, including your dentist, that you're taking a blood thinner. Don't start any new medicines without their OK. And remember that your diet is also very important.


Question: How can exercise help depression?

Answer: You can do any activity. If your depression is more severe, being active is still a good idea, though you may need other treatments, too. Depression can keep you awake, and a lack of sleep can make you feel depressed. For people with SAD, this treatment can work just as well as antidepressants. In TMS, doctors use a magnetic field to treat depression that's resistant to medications. "


Question: Is palliative care the same thing as hospice?

Answer: It's a range of therapies that help you feel better, and help you manage your cancer and treatments. It's designed to make you feel comfortable, treat your pain, or to create a peaceful setting. Palliative care is part of hospice. But you don't have to be in hospice or at the end of your life to need or get it.


Question: What palliative care can help you get extra oxygen if you have lung cancer?

Answer: This can help you get enough oxygen when you breathe. This can be done at home. It can help ease fluid buildup so you can breathe.


Question: How can lung cancer affect you?

Answer: When you're living with lung cancer, both the disease and the treatments for it can take a toll on your quality of life. If you can't get enough oxygen, you can become very weak and tired. It can help ease fluid buildup so you can breathe.


Question: What palliative care treatments can help with lung cancer?

Answer: It's a range of therapies that help you feel better, and help you manage your cancer and treatments. Your doctor can draw out some of the fluid in your lungs or put in stents that hold open your airways. This can help you get enough oxygen when you breathe. Some drugs can help open your air passages or calm swelling. Others control blood clots that can block your airways. You may also need medications to help ease your anxiety or depression.


Question: Where do you get palliative care for lung cancer?

Answer: Your family members and loved ones can get palliative care too. Your palliative care may include radiation or chemotherapy too. This can be done at home. You may get palliative care treatments from many other specialists too. You can also get palliative care while you're in the hospital, at an outpatient clinic or doctor's office, at a nursing home or skilled nursing facility, or in a hospice.


Question: How do I prepare for my doctor's visit for peeing so much at night?

Answer: It may hurt when you pee, your stomach may ache, and you might have a fever. Your doctor will want to know: How you're sleeping Whether you feel tired during the day What medications you take Any other symptoms you have


Question: Could sleeping problems make me pee so much at night?

Answer: When you're older you're also more likely to have other health problems that make you need to pee overnight. That can happen if you have restless legs syndrome, hot flashes, ongoing (chronic) pain, or depression. There's also a connection between sleep apnea and having to go at night. Treating the sleep disorder usually solves the nighttime peeing problem, too.


Question: What is a corpus callosotomy?

Answer: The corpus callosum is a band of nerve fibers located deep in the brain that connects the two halves (hemispheres) of the brain. It helps the hemispheres share information, but it also contributes to the spread of seizure impulses from one side of the brain to the other. However, the seizures usually become less severe, as they cannot spread to the opposite side of the brain.


Question: Are there different types of uveitis?

Answer: There are two types: Infectious uveitis can result from a bacteria or virus in your eye. Noninfectious uveitis can result from an eye injury or a disease somewhere else in your body. That causes inflammation. During eye exam, the doctor will: Test your vision to see if your eyesight has changed Measure the pressure in your eye Widen, or dilate, your pupils so she can look at the back of your eye Use a microscope and a thin beam of light to check different parts of your eye.


Question: What can I do about uveitis?

Answer: You might have it for a short time or for many years. Treatment will help ease any eye pain and swelling you may have, but keep your doctor informed about any discomfort or changes in your vision. If your uveitis was caused by another medical condition, you'll need to make sure you get the right treatment for it as well. Whatever the case, medicines can help ease pain, restore vision, and stop damage to your eye.


Question: Do home lead test kits work?

Answer: They're less expensive than a full inspection or assessment, their accuracy is questionable, and they don't provide the detail that an inspection or a risk assessment gives. You may also collect your own paint samples and send them to a lab for analysis. However, the samples you collect may not be as complete as the samples a certified professional would gather. A certified contractor will take precautions to keep the dust and lead paint chips contained until all surfaces can be cleaned and the lead removed.


Question: What does a risk assessment report tell you about lead paint in your home?

Answer: Risk assessment A risk assessment locates deteriorating paint in your home and evaluates the extent and cause of the deterioration. Painted surfaces in good condition are not tested. If there is a probability, the report will recommend a risk assessment.


Question: What are symptoms of being allergic to nickel?

Answer: Sometimes blisters follow. They may break, leaving crusts and scales. If left untreated, your skin may become darker, leathery, and cracked. Most likely, the rash is only on the part of your skin in direct contact with the nickel. In serious cases, the rash may spread. Sweating can make it worse. If your skin becomes infected, it will become warm and redder or filled with pus. Get medical care right away. The patches must stay on for 48 hours.


Question: What are 7 ways to avoid nickel?

Answer: If you're allergic to nickel, your skin will likely show a reaction after that amount of time. But there are ways to ease your symptoms. It's a good idea to avoid piercing guns, since they could contain nickel and can cause bacterial infections. Make sure your jewelry is made of surgical-grade stainless steel or either 14-, 18- or 24-karat yellow gold. White gold may contain nickel. Other nickel-free metals include pure sterling silver, copper, platinum, and titanium. Polycarbonate plastic is okay. If you must wear earrings that have nickel, add plastic covers made for earring studs. Buy eyeglass frames made of titanium or plastic. Choose clothes, including bras and other under-things, with buttons, snaps, rivets, or fasteners that are made of plastic or are plastic-coated or painted metal. If your clothes have nickel items, switch to plastic or plastic coated. Wear watchbands made of leather, cloth, or plastic. If a good piece of jewelry that you wear daily -- such as a wedding ring -- causes a reaction, ask a jeweler about having it plated in a less-allergic metal, such as platinum.


Question: How can you tell if you may be allergic to nickel?

Answer: It's one of the most common skin allergies, in part because nickel is used so many things, including jewelry, cell phones, coins, zippers, eyeglass frames, belt buckles, and keys. If you're allergic to nickel, your skin will likely show a reaction after that amount of time.


Question: Does diabetes cause slow healing time and what does that mean for oral health?

Answer: If you wear dentures, smoke, or take antibiotics, you may be even more likely to get thrush. That's a byproduct of both diabetes and getting older. At the same time, your risk of infection goes up. That plus slower healing means that if something does go wrong with your gums or teeth, it'll take longer to get better. And it might get worse faster. This can also be a problem after dental surgery.


Question: What is thrush and how is it related to diabetes?

Answer: Gum disease is the most common oral health problem among people with diabetes. Saliva makes the enzymes that attack bacteria. Thrush can cause white or red patches on your tongue and inside your cheeks. Sometimes they turn into open sores.


Question: What are the risks of diabetes-associated dry mouth?

Answer: When it builds up, it leads to tooth decay and gum disease. Bacteria aren't the only organisms that like sugar. Both thrush and dry mouth can lead to burning mouth syndrome.


Question: What are the symptoms of burning mouth syndrome?

Answer: Both thrush and dry mouth can lead to burning mouth syndrome. You might lose some of your ability to taste. This can also result from aging.


Question: What other risk factors put me at risk for thrush other than diabetes?

Answer: If you have diabetes, you're more likely to have oral health problems like cavities and gum disease. Bacteria aren't the only organisms that like sugar.


Question: What things can be done at home to help with symptoms of carcinoid syndrome?

Answer: You can take steps to improve these symptoms. This might include stress, certain types of physical activity, a large meal, alcohol, and some foods such as aged cheeses and other tyramine-containing foods.


Question: When should I go to the doctor for symptoms of carcinoid tumor?

Answer: You may be at greater risk if you: Are African- American Have a certain genetic syndrome Have a condition that affects the stomach's ability to produce acid Carcinoid syndrome results when a carcinoid tumor is advanced and releases large amounts of hormonal substances such as serotonin or other substances. Severe symptoms include: Severe, lasting flushing Confusion Very low blood pressure A very rapid heartbeat Trouble breathing Bluish skin color The type of treatment your doctor suggests depends on many factors.


Question: What do you need to know about menopause and sleep problems?

Answer: There are many steps you can take to get yourself sleeping soundly through the night. If your insomnia is a result of menopausal symptoms, you may also want to talk to your doctor about taking hormone replacement therapy ( HRT) for a short period of time.


Question: How safe are natural therapies in the treatment for bipolar disorder?

Answer: In addition, always discuss any alternative remedy or dietary supplement with your doctor to avoid an herb/drug interaction, which could be medically dangerous. No matter what the advertising flyer claims at the natural food store, even the most popular medicinal herbs with pharmaceutical compounds have ingredients that have not been tested and are not scrutinized by FDA. Unlike products that have FDA approval, many herbal products have not gone through clinical trials to show that they are safe and effective before going onto the market.


Question: How safe is St. John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) in treating bipolar disorder?

Answer: But St. John's wort is not recommended for the treatment of bipolar disorder. In addition, St. John's wort may cause serious herb-drug reactions if taken with other SSRI medications such as Prozac.


Question: How is papillary thyroid carcinoma diagnosed?

Answer: You'll need a few different tests to see if a nodule is cancer. Physical exam. Your doctor will feel for unusual growths in your neck and ask about any symptoms you might have. Blood tests. You may get your thyroid hormone levels checked. Your doctor will find out about their shape, size, and other features. Your doctor will use a very fine needle to take a sample of the nodule to test for cancer. Typically, the most you'll feel during it is a small pinch. Once everything has evened out, you'll get an ultrasound and blood tests every 6-12 months.


Question: What happens during surgery to treat papillary thyroid carcinoma?

Answer: In a small number of cases, papillary thyroid carcinoma runs in the family. If the cancer is small, you might choose to have only part of your thyroid removed. Even in this case though, many doctors think it's better to take it out completely. It can make follow-up care work better and lower the chances that cancer comes back.


Question: What is papillary thyroid carcinoma?

Answer: It's only about as big as a quarter, but the hormones it makes help control how your body works, including your blood pressure, heart rate, and temperature. While it may come as a shock to learn you have papillary thyroid carcinoma, keep in mind that it's a slow-growing cancer that usually can be cured. This is a hormone from your pituitary gland that would normally tell your thyroid to start pumping out hormones.


Question: How do thyroid hormone pills help treat papillary thyroid carcinoma?

Answer: If the cancer is small, you might choose to have only part of your thyroid removed. You start taking these after surgery. It gives your body the thyroid hormones that you no longer make on your own, since your thyroid has been removed. You'll typically take one pill a day for the rest of your life. The pill also stops your body from making thyroid stimulating hormone ( TSH). And that would raise the odds that cancer could return.


Question: How do I know if reverse vasectomy worked?

Answer: You'll know your vasectomy reversal was successful if sperm appear in your semen after a few months. And if you had a vasoepididymostomy, it may take even longer than a year for sperm to appear in your semen.