Question: What are some lifestyle changes that can help ease heartburn?

Answer: Simple daily changes might be all you need, such as: Stop smoking. Lose weight, if needed. Eat small meals, more often. Avoid tight clothing. Don't lie down for 3 hours after eating. Raise the head of your bed by 6-8 inches. Avoid food or beverages that might make symptoms worse. If you're thinking of trying medicine, talk it over with your doctor, even if you can buy it âover the counter,â which means you don't need a prescription.


Question: What are commonly used proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) that can treat heartburn?

Answer: Commonly used H2 blockers are: Famotidine ( Pepcid as a prescription, Pepcid- AC as an OTC medication) Cimetidine ( Tagamet and Tagamet- HB) Nizatidine ( Axid and Axid AR) Ranitidine ( Zantac and Zantac 75) Proton pump inhibitors ( PPIs) block the enzyme in the stomach wall that makes acid. Commonly used PPIs are: Dexlansoprazole ( Dexilant) Esomeprazole ( Nexium and Nexium 24 HR) Lansoprazole ( Prevacid) Pantoprazole ( Protonix) Rabeprazole ( Acip Hex) Omeprazole (several names, including Zegerid and Prilosec, which is available in both prescription and nonprescription strengths)


Question: What are types of histamine 2 (H2) blockers used to lessen heartburn?

Answer: There are different types of medications that tame heartburn by turning down how much acid is in your stomach. Commonly used H2 blockers are: Famotidine ( Pepcid as a prescription, Pepcid- AC as an OTC medication) Cimetidine ( Tagamet and Tagamet- HB) Nizatidine ( Axid and Axid AR) Ranitidine ( Zantac and Zantac 75) Proton pump inhibitors ( PPIs) block the enzyme in the stomach wall that makes acid. Commonly used PPIs are: Dexlansoprazole ( Dexilant) Esomeprazole ( Nexium and Nexium 24 HR) Lansoprazole ( Prevacid) Pantoprazole ( Protonix) Rabeprazole ( Acip Hex) Omeprazole (several names, including Zegerid and Prilosec, which is available in both prescription and nonprescription strengths)


Question: Can you get emotional support for chronic fatigue syndrome?

Answer: You may find you feel better when you talk to other people with your condition. Your doctor can give you information about support groups in your area.


Question: How can you increase your level of exercise if you have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Answer: As the exercise becomes manageable, gradually increase the time you do it. Aim for an increase of about 1 to 5 minutes per week. But continue to get 3 minutes of rest for every minute of exercise. If you reach a point where your exercise routine causes your symptoms to get worse, drop back down to the last level of exercise you could tolerate.


Question: What exercises are good to do if you have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Answer: Try these types of exercises: Hand stretches Sitting and standing Wall push-ups Picking up and grasping objects Start with two to four repetitions and work your way up to eight at the most.


Question: What foods should you avoid if you have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Answer: To help control energy levels, it's also a good idea to avoid these things: Sugar Sweeteners Alcohol Caffeine Some people with ME/ CFS have memory loss.


Question: How can you help your memory if you have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Answer: To help control energy levels, it's also a good idea to avoid these things: Sugar Sweeteners Alcohol Caffeine Some people with ME/ CFS have memory loss. Use a day-planner (a paper one or a smart phone app) to keep up with your schedule and remember the things you need to do. Set reminders on your smartphone when it's time to go somewhere or do something. Keep lists. Use âsticky notes.â Puzzles, word games, and card games â also available on your smartphone â can keep your mind active and might help your memory improve.


Question: How does chronic fatigue syndrome affect your daily activities?

Answer: When you're in a relapse, it might be hard to get through even simple morning routines, like a shower. Plan to allow extra time for tasks that are hard for you. When you feel well again, you may want to try to do as much as you can while you've got the energy. Don't try it. If you push yourself too hard, you may crash later. Repeating this cycle can drive you right back into a relapse. You'll need to learn to balance daily activities with rest, even when you're in remission.


Question: How can chronic fatigue syndrome affect your work life?

Answer: About half of those with ME/ CFS work. If you have problems, you might qualify for coverage under the Americans with Disabilities Act ( ADA). This law requires some employers to provide âreasonable accommodationsâ to help people with disabilities do their jobs. You might need a flexible schedule, a place to rest at work, and written job instructions for people with memory problems. The accommodations depend on your job, your symptoms, and how they affect your ability to do your job. If you can't work because of your condition, you might qualify for disability benefits from either a private insurance policy or from Social Security.


Question: Can a physical therapist help if you have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Answer: As the exercise becomes manageable, gradually increase the time you do it. Aim for an increase of about 1 to 5 minutes per week. But continue to get 3 minutes of rest for every minute of exercise. If you reach a point where your exercise routine causes your symptoms to get worse, drop back down to the last level of exercise you could tolerate. A physical therapist can modify your exercise plan if you can't leave home or get out of bed.


Question: How can chronic fatigue syndrome affect your relationships?

Answer: It can be hard for co-workers, friends, family, and loved ones to understand ME/ CFS. They might not realize how much it affects your daily life. Or they might not believe that it's real. Friends and co-workers of people with ME/ CFS need to get educated about the condition. Chronic fatigue can take a toll on your personal relationships, too. Loss of energy, pain, and potential side effects of medications can keep you from enjoyingan active social life, playing with your kids, or having a healthy sex life.


Question: Can chronic fatigue syndrome affect your sex life?

Answer: They might not realize how much it affects your daily life. Some symptoms of depression are similar to your condition, so it can be hard to tell the difference.


Question: How should you eat if you have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Answer: Knowing to expect this pattern will help you understand how to manage your energy. A diet rich in polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, avoiding saturated fats and refined carbohydratesâlike the Mediterranean Dietâis reported by many people with ME/ CFS to be helpful. If you think you are depressed, tell your doctor.


Question: Can knowing your pattern of chronic fatigue syndrome help you manage your energy?

Answer: Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome ( ME/ CFS) will change your life in many ways. It is a condition that can be hard to cope with. Watching what you eat can help you manage your symptoms. You may find you feel better when you talk to other people with your condition.


Question: Should you talk to your doctor about your chronic fatigue syndrome if you are depressed?

Answer: About half of those with ME/ CFS work. Some symptoms of depression are similar to your condition, so it can be hard to tell the difference. â Red flagsâ for depression could include feelings of hopelessness, sadness, guilt or worthlessness, or thoughts of suicide and death. Medications and talk therapy for depression can help with physical and emotional symptoms.


Question: Can you exercise if you have chronic fatigue syndrome?

Answer: If you push yourself too hard, you may crash later. stretching and strengthening exercises using only your own body weight also can help. Shoot for one minute of activity followed by 3 minutes of rest. Break exercise into several brief sessions a day. Use âsticky notes.â Puzzles, word games, and card games â also available on your smartphone â can keep your mind active and might help your memory improve.


Question: What are the long-term effects of postthrombotic syndrome in deep vein thrombosis?

Answer: Up to half of people with DVT end up with long-term effects where the clot was: Pain Swelling Darkened skin color Skin sores Varicose veins -- swollen, sometimes twisted or blue veins you can see under the skin Because blood that isn't flowing well is more likely to clot, you could also get another DVT or a pulmonary embolism.


Question: What causes pulmonary embolism in deep vein thrombosis?

Answer: If your blood clot comes loose from the vein and moves through your bloodstream so it ends up partly or completely blocking an artery in the lungs, it's called a pulmonary embolism ( PE). This can happen right after the clot forms, or it may happen later.


Question: How common is a pulmonary embolism in deep vein thrombosis?

Answer: About 1 in 10 people with deep vein thrombosis will have a PE. That number may actually be much higher, though, because some people have no symptoms and go undiagnosed.


Question: How can postthrombotic syndrome from deep vein thrombosis be prevented?

Answer: Have a procedure that opens a narrow vein, such as a balloon angioplasty or stenting.


Question: How is pulmonary embolism from deep vein thrombosis treated?

Answer: If you have any of these symptoms, call 911 or go to the emergency room right away: Sudden cough, which may be bloody Rapid breathing or sudden shortness of breath, even while resting Chest pain: sharp or stabbing, burning, aching, or dull (might get worse with deep breaths, coughing, eating, or bending) Sudden rapid heart rate PE can lead to serious problems, including: Irregular heartbeat (heart palpitations) Heart failure, when your heart can't keep up with the body's demands Trouble breathing High blood pressure in the lungs, called pulmonary hypertension Sudden death in up to 1 in 4 people with a PE You may need emergency care in the hospital. Doctors may give you medications that dissolve the clot (called thrombolytics) and prevent new clots (called anticoagulants or blood thinners). Depending on your symptoms and what your tests show, you may need other treatment, too.


Question: When should you call 911 about pulmonary embolism in deep vein thrombosis?

Answer: If you have any of these symptoms, call 911 or go to the emergency room right away: Sudden cough, which may be bloody Rapid breathing or sudden shortness of breath, even while resting Chest pain: sharp or stabbing, burning, aching, or dull (might get worse with deep breaths, coughing, eating, or bending) Sudden rapid heart rate PE can lead to serious problems, including: Irregular heartbeat (heart palpitations) Heart failure, when your heart can't keep up with the body's demands Trouble breathing High blood pressure in the lungs, called pulmonary hypertension Sudden death in up to 1 in 4 people with a PE You may need emergency care in the hospital.


Question: What causes postthrombotic syndrome in deep vein thrombosis?

Answer: Valves that don't work right let blood flow backwards and pool, instead of pushing it toward your heart. Post-thrombotic syndrome is usually mild, but some symptoms can be severe. They may not show up until years later. Keep your leg or arm raised while at rest.


Question: Is there proof that certain foods or ingredients cause ADHD, dyslexia, or learning and behavior problems?

Answer: So while there have been several studies looking at the link between food and symptoms, there's no proof that certain foods or ingredients cause ADHD, dyslexia, or learning and behavior problems. However, some doctors think cutting out artificial food additives or flavors may ease mood problems in kids with autism. They also think processed foods and sweets can raise the risk of depression in kids and teens.


Question: How can a healthy diet affect ADHD symptoms?

Answer: So serving your kids a healthy diet of natural foods might be a good idea. Swapping out candy or processed snack foods, which often contain artificial colors or flavors, for healthy foods may also help your child's symptoms for other reasons.


Question: What is celiac disease and how is it related to ADHD?

Answer: In another small study of both adults and children with ADHD, 15% of them were found to also have celiac disease. This is a condition that makes it hard to digest foods that have gluten. It's found in wheat, barley, and rye. A gluten-free diet helped that group with focus and behavior symptoms.


Question: Is there research to support the Feingold diet?

Answer: Research about the diet is mixed. Some experts say it may help some kids but not all. You shouldn't use the diet in place of your child's ADHD medications or therapy.


Question: What is the Feingold diet designed to do?

Answer: The Feingold diet is designed to help kids with symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD), dyslexia, and other learning disabilities. It involves avoiding certain foods that some people think make symptoms worse.


Question: What is the history of the Feingold diet?

Answer: The diet was developed in the 1970s by Benjamin Feingold, MD, a pediatrician and allergist from San Francisco. He came up with it when treating kids with hives from allergies. Feingold began studying the diet's effect on the children and came up with the theory that artificial food colors, additives, preservatives, and even natural salicylates can cause ADHD symptoms or learning problems.


Question: What do people who support the Feingold diet believe it helps?

Answer: Those who support the diet believe that taking artificial food coloring or sweeteners, preservatives, and some fruits and vegetables out of a kid's diet can help with focus and behavior.


Question: What are the risks of surgery for Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Surgery for Dupuytren's can have risks, including: Damage to nerves and blood vessels in the affected fingers Infection Permanent stiffness in the fingers It can take two months or more to fully return to your normal activities after surgery.


Question: How is Dupuytren's contracture diagnosed?

Answer: However, Dupuytren's can be associated with conditions that cause contractures in other areas of the body, including the: Knuckle pads ( Garrod knuckle pads) Soles of the feet ( Ledderhose disease) Penis ( Peyronie's disease) Your doctor should be able to tell that you have Dupuytren's contracture just by looking at your bent fingers and feeling the tissue on your palm. The doctor might also check the strength and range of motion in your affected hand. One test that can help diagnose the condition and determine whether you need surgery is the "table top" test. During this test, place your hand, palm side down, on a table. If the hand does not lie flat, the symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture are probably significant enough that you need to have surgery.


Question: How long does it take to recover from surgery for Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Surgery for Dupuytren's can have risks, including: Damage to nerves and blood vessels in the affected fingers Infection Permanent stiffness in the fingers It can take two months or more to fully return to your normal activities after surgery. Try to keep moving your fingers to relieve pain and stiffness. Massaging your fingers or applying heat can also help with movement and discomfort. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to help you regain the motion in your hand.


Question: Which countries have the highest incidence of Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: The incidence of Dupuytren's contracture is still highest in northern European countries like Norway, Scotland, Ireland, Iceland, and Sweden.


Question: What conditions are associated with Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: The palm is the most common site of Dupuytren's contracture. However, Dupuytren's can be associated with conditions that cause contractures in other areas of the body, including the: Knuckle pads ( Garrod knuckle pads) Soles of the feet ( Ledderhose disease) Penis ( Peyronie's disease) Your doctor should be able to tell that you have Dupuytren's contracture just by looking at your bent fingers and feeling the tissue on your palm.


Question: What is the first sign of Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: The first sign of Dupuytren's contracture is a hard knot or lumps of connective tissue that form under the skin of the palm. These lumps might feel tender to the touch, but they usually aren't painful. Over a period of many years, the knots become bands of thick tissues. The bands extend up the fingers -- usually the ring and pinky fingers, although other fingers can be affected.


Question: What are symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Eventually it becomes impossible to fully straighten the fingers. The shortening of the fingers caused by the thick tissue is called contracture. Both hands can be affected by Dupuytren's contracture, but one hand is usually more severe than the other. The hand deformity makes it harder to grasp large objects. You may have more trouble doing things like opening jars or doors or combing your hair. You should still be able to pick up small objects, because the thumb and index finger usually aren't involved.


Question: What are treatments for Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: If Dupuytren's contracture isn't bothering you much, you shouldn't need treatment. However, if Dupuytren's is interfering with your daily activities, your doctor may recommend one of these treatments: Stretching exercises for very mild cases Steroid injections to help bring down inflammation and possibly slow the course of the disease (they don't actually straighten the finger.)


Question: What is the history of Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Many years later, the condition was named for French surgeon Baron Guillaume Dupuytren, who gave a now-famous lecture on retracted fingers in 1831. The first sign of Dupuytren's contracture is a hard knot or lumps of connective tissue that form under the skin of the palm.


Question: What happens when you get surgery for Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: If Dupuytren's contracture isn't bothering you much, you shouldn't need treatment. Surgery When surgery is called for, the surgeon performs a fasciotomy in which tissue from the palm is removed through an incision. Then the open wound is allowed to heal on its own, or it is covered with a skin graft taken from another part of your body. The hand is often splinted after surgery to help with healing.


Question: What causes Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Dupuytren's contracture is a condition that causes thick, tough tissue to form under the skin of the palm. They believe that at least some cases are hereditary, but Dupuytren's may also be associated with drinking alcohol and medical conditions like diabetes and seizures.


Question: What is Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: The first sign of Dupuytren's contracture is a hard knot or lumps of connective tissue that form under the skin of the palm. As the bands tighten, they pull the involved fingers in toward the palm.


Question: What are complications of torticollis?

Answer: Without treatment, your baby might get complications, including: Less control of his head Limited reach on the affected side and less tracking with the eyes Delays in sitting and walking A problem feeding Poor balance Crooked crawling Rolling onto one side only Try to get your baby to stretch those neck muscles.


Question: How long is treatment needed for torticollis?

Answer: Once torticollis is diagnosed and stretching exercises start, most babies improve within 6 months. Two things can speed recovery: an early diagnosis and sticking to the treatment plan. Very rarely, children with torticollis will need surgery to lengthen the sternocleidomastoid muscle. Doctors will usually wait until your child is a preschooler to consider this option.


Question: What medical problems are linked with torticollis?

Answer: Most babies with torticollis don't have other medical problems. But it is sometimes linked to infections, broken bones, allergic reactions to medicines, or genetic conditions such as Down syndrome or Klippel- Feil syndrome (a rare bone disorder of the neck).


Question: How is torticollis diagnosed?

Answer: In about 75% of babies with torticollis, the right side is affected. Your baby works hard to turn toward you, struggles to turn his head all the way, and becomes upset because the movement is hard.


Question: What causes torticollis?

Answer: It is called the sternocleidomastoid, or SCM. When your baby has torticollis, this ropy muscle is shortened on one side. Your baby might have been cramped in the womb or may have been in an abnormal position, such as a breech position. That can put extra pressure on one side of your infant's head, which can cause the SCM to tighten. If your doctor used forceps or a vacuum device during delivery, those also might have put pressure on your baby's SCM. Holding your baby this way will strengthen back and neck muscles and keep the back of her head from flattening.


Question: What is the treatment for torticollis?

Answer: The doctor may teach you some specific exercises to do with your little one. Offer the bottle or your breast in a way that gets her to turn away from the favored side. Place toys so that your baby is forced to look both ways. Those with sounds and lights are really good at drawing her attention. Holding your baby this way will strengthen back and neck muscles and keep the back of her head from flattening. Ideally, she should have 15 minutes of tummy time 4 times a day.


Question: Does behavioral therapy ease IBS symptoms?

Answer: And when they felt physically better, they also had fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety.


Question: How do irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and depression work together?

Answer: The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can cause a level of distress that looks like depression. Some people are so worried that their diarrhea, constipation, or other symptoms will flare up that they avoid going to work, school, or out with friends. They may focus less on their social lives and lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. They may feel restless or irritable. All of these are symptoms of depression.


Question: Which antidepressants can help irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms?

Answer: The American College of Gastroenterology says two types of antidepressants can help IBS symptoms: Tricyclic antidepressants, like amitriptyline ( Elavil, Vanatrip), desipramine ( Norpramin), or nortriptyline ( Pamelor) Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ( SSRIs), like citalopram ( Celexa), paroxetine ( Paxil), or sertraline ( Zoloft) But experts say they need more research to fully understand how safe and effective the drugs are for people with IBS.


Question: How do depression and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) work together?

Answer: Some people are so worried that their diarrhea, constipation, or other symptoms will flare up that they avoid going to work, school, or out with friends. They may focus less on their social lives and lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. They may feel restless or irritable. All of these are symptoms of depression. On the other hand, the mood disorder may influence the way people handle IBS. They may feel too tired or hopeless to bother changing their diet to ease digestive symptoms or think they can't treat their constipation or diarrhea well enough. Also, emotional stress makes bowel symptoms worse.


Question: Is talk therapy helpful for those with IBS?

Answer: Many people with depression get help by working with a therapist to figure out conflicts and understand feelings. One type of talk therapy, called cognitive behavioral therapy, can help with IBS symptoms and the mood disorder. Cognitive behavioral therapy teaches you how to recognize negative and distorted thoughts, and replace them with positive, more realistic ones.


Question: Can support groups help people with IBS?

Answer: Support groups for people with IBS or the mood disorder can make a difference, too. When you talk with others who know what you're going through, you might feel less alone. To find support groups that meet in person or online, contact the International Foundation for Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders or tap into the IBS Self Help and Support Group. Talk with your doctor about what's right for you, too. Ask if meeting with a mental health professional will help.


Question: Are antidepressants used to treat IBS?

Answer: At the same time, treatments that usually relieve the mood disorder can help some people with their IBS symptoms, too. But they're used in different ways for each condition, so it's important to talk with your doctor to learn how you should take them. Even people with irritable bowel syndrome who aren't depressed can get relief from antidepressants. The drugs can help block how the brain processes pain.


Question: Are there any other ways to treat irritable bowel syndrome besides medicine and talk therapy?

Answer: One type of talk therapy, called cognitive behavioral therapy, can help with IBS symptoms and the mood disorder. Some people find that stress management techniques, like meditation or deep breathing, help them feel better. Regular exercise also helps some people recover from depression. So does a good diet for IBS, the right amount of sleep, and taking time to do something you enjoy each day.


Question: Is depression tied to IBS?

Answer: It can be a frustrating cycle. At the same time, treatments that usually relieve the mood disorder can help some people with their IBS symptoms, too. They can give you even more options to consider when you're looking for relief. The symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can cause a level of distress that looks like depression. The American College of Gastroenterology says two types of antidepressants can help IBS symptoms: Tricyclic antidepressants, like amitriptyline ( Elavil, Vanatrip), desipramine ( Norpramin), or nortriptyline ( Pamelor) Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ( SSRIs), like citalopram ( Celexa), paroxetine ( Paxil), or sertraline ( Zoloft) But experts say they need more research to fully understand how safe and effective the drugs are for people with IBS. One type of talk therapy, called cognitive behavioral therapy, can help with IBS symptoms and the mood disorder.


Question: Will my doctor require a physical exam when testing for rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Physical exam : The doctor will check your joints for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. RA tends to strike several joints.


Question: What surgery is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Surgery: If you have major joint damage over time, you may want to talk to your doctor about surgery. Total joint replacements of the knee, hip, wrist, and elbow can help. Less serious surgeries may also be good options.


Question: What will your doctor check for during a physical exam for rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Physical exam : The doctor will check your joints for swelling, tenderness, and range of motion. RA tends to strike several joints.


Question: How do doctors diagnose rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Your regular doctor may order blood tests and X-rays to help confirm a diagnosis. Or you may be sent to someone who specializes in diagnosing and treating RA.


Question: Will my doctor ask me about my personal and family medical history when examining for rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Personal and family medical history: Your doctor will ask about your past and your relatives'. If someone in your family tree has RA, you may be more likely to have the disease.


Question: What imaging tests are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Imaging tests: These can help your doctor judge how severe your disease is and track its progress over time. X-rays can show whether (and how much) joint damage you have, though damage may not show up early on. Magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) and ultrasound give a more detailed picture of your joints. These scans aren't normally used to diagnose RA, but they can help doctors find it early.


Question: What's next after rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Don't panic if you learn you have rheumatoid arthritis. While there is no cure, people are living better now with RA than ever before. Your doctor will talk to you about all the ways you can treat the disease and manage your symptoms.


Question: What will your doctor look for in imaging tests for rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Imaging tests: These can help your doctor judge how severe your disease is and track its progress over time. X-rays can show whether (and how much) joint damage you have, though damage may not show up early on. Magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) and ultrasound give a more detailed picture of your joints. These scans aren't normally used to diagnose RA, but they can help doctors find it early.


Question: What medicine is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Medicines: There are several types: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying drugs.


Question: What conditions may your doctor consider besides rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: When a doctor thinks about how likely you are to have one disease over another, or over several others, this is called a differential diagnosis. There are many conditions your doctor may consider besides RA, and besides other forms of autoimmune arthritis: Viral arthritis: Rubella, parvovirus, and hepatitis B and C can lead to short-term arthritis symptoms that resemble RA. Palindromic rheumatism: Periodic joint inflammation that may lead to RA, lupus, and similar diseases Polymyalgia rheumatica : This is more common over age 50, generally less painful than RA, and associated more with shoulders and hips.


Question: What medicines are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Medicines: There are several types: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying drugs.


Question: How can I lower the stress on my joints if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Lower the stress on your joints: Lose weight or stay at a healthy weight. Get some rest, but not too much -- moderate activity helps, too. Use canes and walkers to take pressure off your lower body.


Question: What diseases does rheumatoid arthritis resemble?

Answer: And in the early stages, RA can resemble other diseases like: Lupus Sjogren's syndrome Psoriatic arthritis Lyme arthritis Osteoarthritis That's why your doctor will rely on many things to help pinpoint the cause of your pain and other symptoms.


Question: What might I have if I donât have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: When a doctor thinks about how likely you are to have one disease over another, or over several others, this is called a differential diagnosis. There are many conditions your doctor may consider besides RA, and besides other forms of autoimmune arthritis: Viral arthritis: Rubella, parvovirus, and hepatitis B and C can lead to short-term arthritis symptoms that resemble RA. Palindromic rheumatism: Periodic joint inflammation that may lead to RA, lupus, and similar diseases Polymyalgia rheumatica : This is more common over age 50, generally less painful than RA, and associated more with shoulders and hips.


Question: What antibody blood tests are used to examine for rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Antibody blood tests: Doctors look for certain proteins that show up in your blood when you have RA.


Question: What other blood tests are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Other blood tests: Besides RF and anti- CCP, other blood tests could include: Complete blood count: It helps your doctor find anemia (low red blood cells), which is common in RA. It looks for four things: White blood cells 4.8-10.8 Red blood cells 4.7-6.1 Hemoglobin 14.0-18.0 Hematocrit 42-52 Platelets 150-450 Erythrocyte sedimentation rate: This measures how fast your red blood cells clump and fall to the bottom of a glass tube within an hour. Your doctor might call it a sed rate. Don't panic if you learn you have rheumatoid arthritis.


Question: What will your doctor look for in antibody blood tests for rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Antibody blood tests: Doctors look for certain proteins that show up in your blood when you have RA. Rheumatoid factor ( RF): high levels (over 20 u/ml) Anti- CCP (anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide): high levels (over 20 u/ml) ANA, or antinuclear antibodies: the results are positive or negative Not all people with RA have these proteins.


Question: What will your doctor look for in other blood tests for rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Other blood tests: Besides RF and anti- CCP, other blood tests could include: Complete blood count: It helps your doctor find anemia (low red blood cells), which is common in RA. Normal ranges are: Men younger than 50: 0-15 mm/h Men older than 50: 0-20 mm/h Women younger than 50: 0-20 mm/h Women older than 50: 0-30 mm/h C-reactive protein : This test measures levels of a protein your liver makes when inflammation is present.


Question: When should you see a doctor about rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: RA is a problem with your immune system. If you don't diagnose and treat it in time, it could harm your joints. Most people with RA do have some sort of joint damage. Most of it happens in the first 2 years. Don't panic if you learn you have rheumatoid arthritis.


Question: Does sleepwalking need medical treatment?

Answer: Medical treatment for sleepwalking is not usually necessary. For children and adults, sleepwalking is usually a sign of lack of sleep, intense emotional problems, stress, or fever. As these conditions resolve, sleepwalking stops.


Question: How can large meals or eating while you do something stressful lead to irritable bowel syndrome?

Answer: Again, these activities don't cause irritable bowel syndrome, but for those with a very sensitive colon, they can spell trouble.


Question: Do other digestive problems affect on individual's susceptibility to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Some scientists think these illnesses may trigger a person's first IBS symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you think you might have irritable bowel syndrome. She can discuss your symptoms with you and do some tests to find out what's going on.


Question: Do medications affect on individual's susceptibility to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Studies have shown a link between IBS symptoms and antibiotics, antidepressants, and drugs made with sorbitol.


Question: Do food sensitives affect an individual's susceptibility to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Some people may have digestive systems that rumble angrily when they eat dairy, wheat, a sugar in fruits called fructose, or the sugar substitute sorbitol. Fatty foods, carbonated drinks, and alcohol can also upset digestion. There's no proof any of these foods cause IBS, but they may trigger symptoms.


Question: How can medications lead to irritable bowel syndrome?

Answer: Studies have shown a link between IBS symptoms and antibiotics, antidepressants, and drugs made with sorbitol.


Question: How does age play a role in irritable bowel syndrome?

Answer: IBS can affect people of all ages, but it's more likely for people in their teens through their 40s.


Question: Are women at a higher risk for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: About twice as many women as men have the condition. It's not clear why, but some researchers think the changing hormones in the menstrual cycle may have something to do with it.


Question: How can emotional trouble lead to irritable bowel syndrome?

Answer: Some people with IBS seem to have trouble with stress, have a mental disorder, or have been through a traumatic event in their lives, such as sexual abuse or domestic violence. It's not clear what comes first -- the stress or the IBS. But there's evidence that stress management and behavioral therapy can help relieve symptoms in some people with the condition.


Question: Does family history affect an individual's susceptibility to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: The condition seems to run in families. Some studies have shown that your genes may play a role.


Question: How can food sensitivities lead to irritable bowel syndrome?

Answer: Some people may have digestive systems that rumble angrily when they eat dairy, wheat, a sugar in fruits called fructose, or the sugar substitute sorbitol. Fatty foods, carbonated drinks, and alcohol can also upset digestion. There's no proof any of these foods cause IBS, but they may trigger symptoms.


Question: How can being a woman affect your risk for irritable bowel syndrome?

Answer: It's not clear why, but some researchers think the changing hormones in the menstrual cycle may have something to do with it. The condition seems to run in families.


Question: What is the definition of supraventricular tachycardia?

Answer: The term has Latin roots. Supraventricular means âabove the ventricles,â which are the lower two sections of your heart. Tachycardia means âfast heart rate.â Rapid heart rates can start in various places of a heart. For you to get a diagnosis of SVT, your problem must start in the atria, the upper two chambers.


Question: What is supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)?

Answer: Most of the time, it doesn't cause any serious health problems, though it's natural that a really fast heartbeat would concern you. Be sure to make an appointment with your doctor if you've felt your heart racing when you haven't been exercising or feeling anxious. It's actually a group of several different heart conditions that have a few things in common. That's where SVT might come in.


Question: What is atrioventricular reciprocating tachycardia (AVRT)?

Answer: Like AVNRT above, this happens when cells in your heart are sending electrical impulses in an extra circle. That's what ends up causing the extra heartbeats.


Question: Can medication help back pain?

Answer: If needed, medication can help relieve pain allowing you to sleep better. These may include pain killers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and topical treatments. Short-term use of sleep medications may also help some people with sleep problems.


Question: What are the symptoms of uterine fibroids?

Answer: In addition to an enlarged uterus, symptoms of uterine fibroids may include: Feeling of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen Heavy, painful, and/or long-lasting periods, sometimes with the passage of blood clots Bleeding between periods Constipation Frequent urination Pain during intercourse Pregnancy or delivery complications If symptoms are severe, treatment may involve a procedure called uterine artery embolization to cut off the blood supply to the fibroids so that they shrink and eventually die, or surgery to remove the fibroids (myomectomy) or the entire uterus (hysterectomy).


Question: What causes fibroids?

Answer: The cause of fibroids is not known, but the tumors seem to rely on estrogen to grow. After menopause, they often shrink naturally and cause no symptoms.


Question: What are the symptoms of an enlarged uterus?

Answer: If you have an enlarged uterus, you won't necessarily notice it yourself. Your doctor may discover it during a physical exam or on imaging tests. Many conditions that cause an enlarged uterus are benign and don't require treatment unless symptoms are severe. If you experience problems such as irregular bleeding; painful, heavy periods; pain during intercourse; or feelings of fullness or pressure in the lower abdomen, see your doctor, who can help determine the cause and best treatment.


Question: What are some other causes of an enlarged uterus?

Answer: In some cases, an enlarged uterus can be a symptom of uterine cancers, including endometrial cancer (affecting the lining of the uterus) and cervical cancer (affecting the lower portion of the uterus where it joins the vagina). Treatment depends on the location, the extent of the cancer, and other factors.


Question: What should I know about an enlarged uterus?

Answer: But pregnancy isn't the only potential reason for an enlarged uterus. An enlarged uterus is common and can be a symptom of a variety of medical conditions, some of which require treatment. Two of the most common causes of an enlarged uterus are uterine fibroids and adenomyosis. The cause of fibroids is not known, but the tumors seem to rely on estrogen to grow.


Question: How can uterine fibroids lead to an enlarged uterus?

Answer: While the cause of adenomyosis is unknown, the condition usually occurs in women older than age 30 who have had children. It is more common in women who have had uterine surgery, including a cesarean section. In some cases, an enlarged uterus can be a symptom of uterine cancers, including endometrial cancer (affecting the lining of the uterus) and cervical cancer (affecting the lower portion of the uterus where it joins the vagina).


Question: How does a spine MRI scan work?

Answer: The MRI lets your doctor examine the small bones, called vertebrae, which make up your spinal column, as well as the spinal disks, spinal canal, and spinal cord. The test looks for: Unusual parts or curves in your spine Fractures in the vertebrae Injuries Infection Swelling Spinal cord problems Bulging or slipped spinal disks Tumors Your doctor may also use a spine MRI to help plan surgeries on the spine, like for a pinched nerve, or for procedures like epidural or steroid shots.


Question: What antidepressants can cause serotonin syndrome?

Answer: The most commonly prescribed class of antidepressants, which work by increasing serotonin, are the serotonin reuptake inhibitors ( SSRIs). These include citalopram ( Celexa), escitalopram ( Lexapro), fluoxetine ( Prozac), fluvoxamine ( Luvox), paroxetine ( Paxil), and sertraline ( Zoloft).


Question: What other prescription and over-the-counter drugs can lead to serotonin syndrome?

Answer: Other prescription and over-the-counter drugs that can raise serotonin levels alone or in combination to cause serotonin syndrome include: Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors ( SNRIs), a class of antidepressants including desvenlafaxine ( Khedezla), desvenlafaxine succinate ( Pristiq), duloxetine ( Cymbalta), levomilnacipran ( Fetzima), and venlafaxine ( Effexor). Monoamine oxidase inhibitors ( MAOIs), a class of antidepressants including isocarboxazid ( Marplan), phenelzine ( Nardil), tranylcypromine ( Parnate), and transdermal selegiline ( EMSAM) Buspirone ( Bu Spar), a drug used to treat anxiety disorders Desyrel ( Trazodone ), a drug prescribed for depression or insomnia Migraine treatments such as almotriptan ( Axert), Amerge (naratriptan), rizatriptan ( Maxalt), sumatriptan ( Imitrex), and zolmitriptan ( Zomig) Certain pain medications, including fentanyl ( Sublimaze, Fentora), fentanyl citrate ( Actiq), meperidine ( Demerol), pentazocine ( Talwin), and tramadol ( Ultram) Dextromethorphan , a cough suppressant found in many over-the-counter and prescription cough medicines or cold medicines Certain medications prescribed for nausea, such as granisetron ( Kytril), metoclopramide ( Reglan), and ondansetron ( Zofran) Antidepressants that affect multiple serotonin receptors, such as vortioxetine ( Trintellix -formerly Brintellix) and vilazodone ( Viibryd) Some illegal drugs, such as LSD and cocaine, and dietary supplements, including St. John's wort and ginseng, can also lead to serotonin syndrome when combined with antidepressants that affect serotonin.


Question: What are the symptoms of serotonin syndrome?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Serotonin syndrome symptoms often begin within hours of taking a new medication that affects serotonin levels or excessively increasing the dose of one you are already taking. Symptoms may include: Confusion Agitation or restlessness Dilated pupils Headache Changes in blood pressure and/or temperature Nausea and/or vomiting Diarrhea Rapid heart rate Tremor Loss of muscle coordination or twitching muscles Shivering and goose bumps Heavy sweating In severe cases, serotonin syndrome can be life threatening.


Question: How is serotonin syndrome treated?

Answer: People with serotonin syndrome are typically hospitalized for observation and treatment of symptoms. For example, benzodiazepines are given to treat agitation and/or seizures. Intravenous fluids are given to maintain hydration. Removing the drug responsible for the serotonin syndrome is critical. Hydration by intravenous ( IV) fluids) is also common. In severe cases, a medication called cyproheptadine ( Periactin) that blocks serotonin production may be used.


Question: What role does illegal drugs play in serotonin syndrome?

Answer: Monoamine oxidase inhibitors ( MAOIs), a class of antidepressants including isocarboxazid ( Marplan), phenelzine ( Nardil), tranylcypromine ( Parnate), and transdermal selegiline ( EMSAM) Buspirone ( Bu Spar), a drug used to treat anxiety disorders Desyrel ( Trazodone ), a drug prescribed for depression or insomnia Migraine treatments such as almotriptan ( Axert), Amerge (naratriptan), rizatriptan ( Maxalt), sumatriptan ( Imitrex), and zolmitriptan ( Zomig) Certain pain medications, including fentanyl ( Sublimaze, Fentora), fentanyl citrate ( Actiq), meperidine ( Demerol), pentazocine ( Talwin), and tramadol ( Ultram) Dextromethorphan , a cough suppressant found in many over-the-counter and prescription cough medicines or cold medicines Certain medications prescribed for nausea, such as granisetron ( Kytril), metoclopramide ( Reglan), and ondansetron ( Zofran) Antidepressants that affect multiple serotonin receptors, such as vortioxetine ( Trintellix -formerly Brintellix) and vilazodone ( Viibryd) Some illegal drugs, such as LSD and cocaine, and dietary supplements, including St. John's wort and ginseng, can also lead to serotonin syndrome when combined with antidepressants that affect serotonin. The FDA recently asked drug manufacturers to include warning labels on their products to let patients know about the potential risk of serotonin syndrome. If you are uncertain about drugs you take or have been prescribed, check the label or speak with your doctor. Don't stop any medication before talking to your doctor.


Question: What causes serotonin syndrome?

Answer: If you experience any of these symptoms, you or someone with you should seek medical attention immediately: High fever Seizures Irregular heartbeat Unconsciousness Serotonin syndrome can occur if you are taking medications, particularly antidepressants that affect the body's level of serotonin. The greatest risk of serotonin syndrome occurs if you are taking two or more drugs and/or supplements together that influence serotonin. The condition is more likely to occur when you first start a medicine or increase the dose.


Question: When should I seek medical attention for serotonin syndrome?

Answer: Symptoms may include: Confusion Agitation or restlessness Dilated pupils Headache Changes in blood pressure and/or temperature Nausea and/or vomiting Diarrhea Rapid heart rate Tremor Loss of muscle coordination or twitching muscles Shivering and goose bumps Heavy sweating In severe cases, serotonin syndrome can be life threatening. If you experience any of these symptoms, you or someone with you should seek medical attention immediately: High fever Seizures Irregular heartbeat Unconsciousness Serotonin syndrome can occur if you are taking medications, particularly antidepressants that affect the body's level of serotonin.


Question: What tests are used to diagnose serotonin syndrome?

Answer: Don't stop any medication before talking to your doctor. Other conditions may cause symptoms that are similar to serotonin syndrome. Lab tests to exclude other causes of symptoms may be ordered.


Question: How do you get swollen joints from psoriatic arthritis?

Answer: Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease that's linked with psoriasis, a skin condition. Up to 30% of people with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis.


Question: How do you get swollen joints from ankylosing spondylitis?

Answer: The key feature of this is the involvement of the joints at the base of the spine where the spine joins the pelvis, called the sacroiliac joints.


Question: What are the symptoms of swollen joints?

Answer: Symptoms of swollen joints include: Deep, aching pain May feel warm to touch Stiffness Inability to move them normally Not all swollen joints are treated the same way.


Question: How do you get swollen joints from rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: RA is an inflammatory arthritis that can happen at any age -- even in young children. RA causes painful, stiff, and swollen joints. Usually, RA affects hands, feet, and knees, but it can also affect most joints and other parts of the body. RA symptoms can interfere with daily activities.


Question: How are swollen joints (joint effusion) caused by acute gout treated?

Answer: Acute gout can be treated with a medicine called colchicine. This prescription drug eases swollen joints, pain, and inflammation caused by the crystal deposits in the joint. NSAIDs may also help decrease pain and swelling. Sometimes, stronger painkillers are needed.


Question: How do you get swollen joints from osteoarthritis (OA)?

Answer: OA is the "wear-and-tear" arthritis that usually happens with aging or after injury. With OA, there's a wearing down of the cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones. OA may cause joint swelling in those joints that bear weight over a lifetime, such as knees, hips, feet, and spine. Except for the pain in the affected swollen joint, you usually do not feel sick or tired.


Question: What medications are used to treat swollen joints?

Answer: Symptoms of swollen joints include: Deep, aching pain May feel warm to touch Stiffness Inability to move them normally Not all swollen joints are treated the same way. Treatment for swollen joints depends on the problem or diagnosis. For instance, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) are used in treating swollen joints with OA. NSAIDs may also be used to treat swollen joints from an injury. Along with NSAIDs, applications of moist heat or ice can help ease swollen joints and pain. Steroid medications taken orally for a short period of time may be effective in reducing painful, swollen joints. Steroids block the production of inflammatory chemicals in the body.


Question: How do you get swollen joints from joint injuries?

Answer: Joint injuries can result in painful, swollen joints, and stiffness. Sometimes, joint pain can be caused by injured or torn muscles, tendons, and ligaments surrounding the joint, bursitis, tendonitis, dislocations, strains, sprains, and fractures.


Question: How are swollen joints (joint effusion) caused by infectious arthritis treated?

Answer: Infectious arthritis . Sometimes, surgery may be needed to allow drainage of infected material.


Question: How are swollen joints (joint effusion) caused by inflammatory types of arthritis treated?

Answer: Psoriatic arthritis . These include the disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs ( DMARDs), biologic agents such as tumor necrosis factor inhibitors, and enzyme inhibitors which can block the proteins that cause.


Question: What are Muehrcke's lines

Answer: Muehrcke's lines appear as double white lines that run across the fingernails horizontally. Muehrcke's lines usually affect several nails at a time. There are usually no lines on the thumbnails. The exact cause of Muehrcke's lines is not clearly understood. The lines are not caused by injury to the cuticle or nail area.


Question: Have Muehrcke's lines been linked to any health issues?

Answer: The lines have been linked to low levels of a protein called albumin. Although low albumin level is most commonly linked to liver disease, many different systemic (body-wide) diseases can cause low albumin levels. Muehrcke's lines have been seen in people with: Cancer after chemotherapy Kidney disease, including nephrotic syndrome and glomerulonephritis Liver disease, including cirrhosis An unbalanced diet that leads to an extreme lack of nutrients in the body (severe malnutrition) One possible theory for the appearance of Muehrcke's lines is that these diseases lead to swelling in the nail bed.


Question: What leg stretches can help with muscle cramps?

Answer: Medications that can cause muscle cramps include: Furosemide ( Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide ( Microzide), and other diuretics ("water pills") that remove fluid from the body Donepezil ( Aricept), used to treat Alzheimer's disease Neostigmine ( Prostigmine), used for myasthenia gravis Nifedipine ( Procardia), a treatment for angina and high blood pressure Raloxifene ( Evista), an osteoporosis treatment Terbutaline ( Brethine), albuterol ( Proventil and Ventolin), asthma medications Tolcapone ( Tasmar), which helps treat Parkinson's disease Statin medications for cholesterol, such as atorvastatin ( Lipitor), fluvastatin ( Lescol), lovastatin ( Mevacor), pravastatin ( Pravachol), rosuvastatin ( Crestor), or simvastatin ( Zocor) For a charley horse in the calf or a cramp in the back of the thigh (hamstring), try this stretch: Put your weight on the affected leg and bend your knee slightly. Or, sit or lie down with your leg out straight and pull the top of your foot toward your head. For a cramp in the front of the thigh (quadriceps), hold on to a chair to steady yourself and pull your foot back toward your buttock.


Question: What medications can cause muscle cramps?

Answer: They include: Poor blood circulation in your legs Working calf muscles too hard while exercising Not stretching enough Being active in hot temperatures Muscle fatigue Dehydration Magnesium and/or potassium deficiency A problem such as a spinal cord injury or pinched nerve in your neck or back Kidney disease Muscle cramps can also occur as a side effect of some drugs. Medications that can cause muscle cramps include: Furosemide ( Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide ( Microzide), and other diuretics ("water pills") that remove fluid from the body Donepezil ( Aricept), used to treat Alzheimer's disease Neostigmine ( Prostigmine), used for myasthenia gravis Nifedipine ( Procardia), a treatment for angina and high blood pressure Raloxifene ( Evista), an osteoporosis treatment Terbutaline ( Brethine), albuterol ( Proventil and Ventolin), asthma medications Tolcapone ( Tasmar), which helps treat Parkinson's disease Statin medications for cholesterol, such as atorvastatin ( Lipitor), fluvastatin ( Lescol), lovastatin ( Mevacor), pravastatin ( Pravachol), rosuvastatin ( Crestor), or simvastatin ( Zocor) For a charley horse in the calf or a cramp in the back of the thigh (hamstring), try this stretch: Put your weight on the affected leg and bend your knee slightly.


Question: Can I prevent muscle cramps?

Answer: To help stop cramps before they start: Eat more foods high in vitamins and magnesium. Stay well-hydrated. Stretch daily and before exercise.


Question: What causes muscle cramps?

Answer: You are having a muscle cramp. They include: Poor blood circulation in your legs Working calf muscles too hard while exercising Not stretching enough Being active in hot temperatures Muscle fatigue Dehydration Magnesium and/or potassium deficiency A problem such as a spinal cord injury or pinched nerve in your neck or back Kidney disease Muscle cramps can also occur as a side effect of some drugs.


Question: When should I call the doctor about muscle cramps?

Answer: You are having a muscle cramp. How can you stop it and prevent another one from happening? But if you get them often and for no clear reason, tell your doctor.


Question: Is a C-peptide test used for type 1 or type 2 diabetes?

Answer: The C-peptide test is a tool your doctor uses to test whether you have type 1 diabetes, when the immune system attacks and destroys cells in the pancreas, or type 2, when your body doesn't use insulin as well it should.


Question: How is a C-peptide test done?

Answer: The C-peptide test typically uses a sample of your blood. To take a blood test, someone in your doctor's office or a lab places a needle into a vein, usually in your forearm. You may feel a slight prick. The blood will collect into a vial or syringe. For a urine test, you will pee into a cup as instructed. For a 24-hour sample, you'll need to collect all that you produce in a day.


Question: How can I prepare for a C-peptide test?

Answer: To find out why you have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) To diagnose a tumor of the pancreas that releases insulin, called an insulinoma If you've had your pancreas removed You might need to stop eating 8 to 10 hours before the test. Sometimes, it's done after you eat. Let your doctor know about any medicines you are on. Include medicine you take by prescription and those you buy over the counter, such as herbal supplements or vitamins.


Question: What do the results from my C-peptide test mean?

Answer: Levels are low when your body makes less than it normally should.


Question: What does a high C-peptide level indicate?

Answer: Have a tumor, called an insulinoma Have kidney disease A high level may also show you take too much of a certain class of medicine to treat type 2 diabetes. They're called sulfonylureas, and they include: Chlorpropamide ( Diabinese) Glimepiride ( Amaryl) Glipizide ( Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL) Glyburide ( Dia Beta, Glynase Pres Tab, Micronase) Tolazamide or tolbutamide A low C-peptide level may mean that: You have type 1 or type 2 diabetes You are on insulin shots and it is suppressing the release of insulin from your pancreas You have low blood sugar so your pancreas stops releasing insulin Treatment has shrunk your insulinoma Ask your doctor for more details about what your test results mean.


Question: How do I prepare for a C-peptide test?

Answer: To find out why you have low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) To diagnose a tumor of the pancreas that releases insulin, called an insulinoma If you've had your pancreas removed You might need to stop eating 8 to 10 hours before the test. Sometimes, it's done after you eat. Let your doctor know about any medicines you are on. Include medicine you take by prescription and those you buy over the counter, such as herbal supplements or vitamins.


Question: Why would I need a C-peptide test?

Answer: Doctors don't use it to actually diagnose diabetes, but it can give them a reading to help treat it. It can tell the difference between insulin your body has made and insulin that you took. You might get the C-peptide test: To find out whether you have type 1 or type 2 diabetes When you have type 1 and your doctor needs to know how much insulin your pancreas still makes To find out if it time to start insulin in a patient with type 2 diabetes.


Question: What does a high C-peptide level mean?

Answer: Have a tumor, called an insulinoma Have kidney disease A high level may also show you take too much of a certain class of medicine to treat type 2 diabetes. They're called sulfonylureas, and they include: Chlorpropamide ( Diabinese) Glimepiride ( Amaryl) Glipizide ( Glucotrol, Glucotrol XL) Glyburide ( Dia Beta, Glynase Pres Tab, Micronase) Tolazamide or tolbutamide A low C-peptide level may mean that: You have type 1 or type 2 diabetes You are on insulin shots and it is suppressing the release of insulin from your pancreas You have low blood sugar so your pancreas stops releasing insulin Treatment has shrunk your insulinoma Ask your doctor for more details about what your test results mean.


Question: What is a C-peptide test?

Answer: The C-peptide test is a tool your doctor uses to test whether you have type 1 diabetes, when the immune system attacks and destroys cells in the pancreas, or type 2, when your body doesn't use insulin as well it should. It shows how well your body makes insulin, which moves sugar (or âglucoseâ) from your blood into your cells. The test can help your doctor decide whether you need to take insulin to control your condition.


Question: How is the C-peptide test done?

Answer: The C-peptide test typically uses a sample of your blood. To take a blood test, someone in your doctor's office or a lab places a needle into a vein, usually in your forearm. You may feel a slight prick. The blood will collect into a vial or syringe. For a urine test, you will pee into a cup as instructed. For a 24-hour sample, you'll need to collect all that you produce in a day.


Question: What do the results of a C-peptide test mean?

Answer: Levels are low when your body makes less than it normally should.


Question: How can I be referred for a diabetes educator?

Answer: The C-peptide test is a tool your doctor uses to test whether you have type 1 diabetes, when the immune system attacks and destroys cells in the pancreas, or type 2, when your body doesn't use insulin as well it should. A high level can mean that you: Have insulin resistance -- meaning your body doesn't use it as well as it should; if you have type 2 diabetes, your insulin levels may be high.


Question: What anticonvulsant medications are used to treat bipolar disorder, and what symptoms do they treat?

Answer: Anticonvulsants used to treat bipolar disorder include: Depakote, Depakene (divalproex sodium, valproic acid, or valproate sodium) Lamictal (lamotrigine) Tegretol (carbamazepine) These medicines differ in the types of bipolar symptoms they treat. Depakote and Tegretol, for example, tend to be more effective in treating mania than depressive symptoms while Lamictal appears to have stronger antidepressant than antimanic effects. Lamictal also is used more often to prevent future episodes (rather than treat current episodes). Depakote and Tegretol are used to treat acute episodes more than as preventative treatments.


Question: What are some warnings about anticonvulsant medication?

Answer: In general: Pregnant women should not take anticonvulsants without consulting with their doctor, because some of these drugs may increase the risk of birth defects. Some anticonvulsants can cause problems with the liver over the long term, so your doctor may monitor your liver periodically. Anticonvulsants can interact with other drugs -- even aspirin -- to cause serious problems. Be sure to tell your doctor about any drugs, herbs, or supplements you take. Don't take any other substance during treatment without talking with your doctor. Always talk to your doctor before stopping an anticonvulsant. Sometimes, stopping one too quickly can raise the risk of having a seizure.


Question: How do anticonvulsant drugs treat bipolar disorder mood episodes, and when are they most effective?

Answer: Several anticonvulsant medications are recognized as mood stabilizers to treat or prevent mood episodes in bipolar disorder. Today, they are often prescribed alone, with lithium, or with an antipsychotic drug to control mania. Anticonvulsants work by calming hyperactivity in the brain in various ways. They are often prescribed for people who have rapid cycling -- four or more episodes of mania and depression in a year. In general, however, these drugs are at maximal effectiveness after taking them for several weeks.


Question: How does hypermobility joint syndrome affect adults?

Answer: The syndrome rarely leads to arthritis later in life. But some people with the condition may get shoulder or kneecap problems if they often dislocate those joints or if their cartilage gets worn down. People who have the syndrome as adults are more likely to get osteoarthritis (âwear and tear" arthritis) as they age. A few people still have muscle pain from hypermobility as they become adults. They are more likely than others to have sprains, injuries, dislocations, occasional swelling, backaches, and discomfort after exercise.


Question: How do you diagnose hypermobility joint syndrome?

Answer: Doctors use several specific mobility tests, including: The wrist and thumb can be moved downward so the thumb touches the forearm. The little fingers can be extended back beyond 90 degrees. When standing, the knees are abnormally bowed backward when viewed from the side. When fully extended, the arms bend further than normal (beyond straight). When bending at the waist, with the knees straight, the child or adult can put their palms flat on the floor. Since the symptoms of hypermobility can sometimes mimic arthritis, you may need to get lab tests to make sure your child doesn't have a more serious disorder (such as juvenile arthritis or other inflammatory conditions). In rare cases, you may need to get X-rays.


Question: What can you do for hypermobility joint syndrome?

Answer: It's a good idea to strengthen the muscles around loose joints. For some people, doctors recommend splints, braces, or taping to protect affected joints during activity. Joint protection. These tips will help your child avoid overstretching their hypermobile joints: Don't sit cross-legged with both knees bent (" Indian style"). Bend the knees slightly when standing. Wear shoes with good arch supports. Stop any unusual joint movements that hypermobile children often use to entertain their friends.


Question: What are symptoms of hypermobility joint syndrome?

Answer: It is a common joint or muscle problem in children and young adults. The pain is more common in the legs, such as the calf or thigh muscles. It most often involves large joints such as the knees or elbows. That swelling may come and go within hours. For some people, doctors recommend splints, braces, or taping to protect affected joints during activity.


Question: How can phototherapy help with treating newborn jaundice?

Answer: Sometimes phototherapy -- special light treatment -- is used to help the body get rid of the excess bilirubin. Phototherapy is conducted with a lamp called a bili-light or with a bili-blanket. Your baby is naked during the treatment so that as much skin as possible is exposed to light. Eyes are covered to protect them during treatment. Supplemental feedings may be necessary because of the excess water loss that can occur through the skin.


Question: What drugs can lower the risk of prostate cancer?

Answer: Adding certain foods in your diet may also help reduce the risk, including tomato sauce and vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage.


Question: Is there a cure for prostate cancer?

Answer: Cancer that has spread beyond the prostate (such as to the bones, lymph nodes, and lungs) is not curable, but it may be controlled for many years. Because of the many advances in available treatments, most men whose prostate cancer becomes widespread can expect to live five years or more. Some men with advanced prostate cancer live a normal life and die of another cause, such as heart disease.


Question: How does prostate cancer develop?

Answer: Most men with prostate cancer die of other causes, and many never know that they have the disease. But once prostate cancer begins to grow quickly or spreads outside the prostate, it is dangerous. Prostate cancer in its early stages (when it's only found in the prostate gland) can be treated with very good chances for survival. Fortunately, about 85% of American men with prostate cancer are diagnosed in an early stage of the disease.


Question: Who is mainly affected by prostate cancer?

Answer: About 80% of cases are in men over 65, and less than 1% of cases are in men under 50. Men with a family history of prostate cancer are more likely to get it.


Question: What is prostate cancer?

Answer: The walnut-sized gland is located beneath the bladder and surrounds the upper part of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder. Prostate cancer is a major health concern for American men. The disease is less common before age 50, and experts believe that most elderly men have traces of it.


Question: What causes prostate cancer?

Answer: Doctors don't know what causes prostate cancer, but diet contributes to the risk. Men who eat lots of fat from red meat are most likely to have prostate cancer. Eating meat may be risky for other reasons: Meat cooked at high temperatures produces cancer-causing substances that affect the prostate. The disease is much more common in countries where meat and dairy products are common than in countries where the diet consists of rice, soybean products, and vegetables. Hormones also play a role. Eating fats raises the amount of testosterone in the body, and testosterone speeds the growth of prostate cancer. A few job hazards have been found. Welders, battery manufacturers, rubber workers, and workers frequently exposed to the metal cadmium seem to be more likely to get prostate cancer. Not exercising also makes prostate cancer more likely.


Question: What should I do if someone faints?

Answer: If he or she is sitting, carefully support them in a bent position, with their head between their knees. If he or she is lying down, position them on their back and raise their feet higher than their head. Turn their head to the side, so that their tongue does not accidentally block their breathing and so that any vomit will not cause choking. Once they regain consciousness, do not allow someone who has fainted to get up immediately. Then be prepared to support them in case they faint again when they stand.


Question: What are usual treatments for psychotic disorders?

Answer: Partly because shared psychotic disorders are rare, effective treatments are not well-established. Usually, treatment involves separating the person who has the shared psychotic disorder from the person who has the psychotic disorder. Treatments for the person with the shared psychotic disorder might include: Psychotherapy: This type of counseling can help someone recognize the delusions and get back to healthy thinking.


Question: What can happen if shared psychotic disorder is untreated?

Answer: If they're not treated, shared psychotic disorders can become an ongoing problem. People with a delusional disorder often don't realize that they need treatment and may choose not to take prescribed medications. But with treatment, a person with a shared psychotic disorder often may have a good chance for recovery.


Question: How does psychotic disorder affect people?

Answer: People with psychotic disorders have trouble staying in touch with reality and often can't handle daily life. The most obvious symptoms are hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that aren't real) and delusions (believing things that aren't true, even when they get the facts).


Question: When can shared psychotic disorders happen?

Answer: Shared psychotic disorders usually happen only in long-term relationships in which the person who has the psychotic disorder is dominant and the other person is passive. For instance, this could happen in a cult if the leader is psychotic and his or her followers take on their delusions. Usually, treatment involves separating the person who has the shared psychotic disorder from the person who has the psychotic disorder.


Question: What causes trigeminal neuralgia?

Answer: This starts with irritation of the trigeminal nerve. You might have a blood vessel pressing on the nerve, damaging the protective coating around it, which is called the myelin sheath. Certain diseases, such as multiple sclerosis, also can injure the myelin sheath. Sometimes a tumor or a tangle of arteries presses on the nerve. Your trigeminal nerve can also be injured -- perhaps by surgery, an accident, or a stroke.


Question: What are the types of trigeminal neuralgia?

Answer: Doctors considers sudden and intense bouts of pain to be signs of âclassicâ trigeminal neuralgia. If your pain is less intense but constant -- more of an aching, burning sensation -- you might have what's known as âatypicalâ trigeminal neuralgia. Some people with this condition also have anxiety because they are uncertain when the pain will return.


Question: Where do you feel trigeminal neuralgia?

Answer: The disorder can affect any of the three nerve branches, meaning you could feel pain from your forehead to your jaw. Usually, you'll feel pain on only one side of your face. Some people feel it on both sides. When that happens, it's called bilateral trigeminal neuralgia.


Question: Who gets trigeminal neuralgia?

Answer: Women are more likely than men to get trigeminal neuralgia, and the disease is more common in people older than 50. The disorder may run in families, perhaps because of how blood vessels are formed in the brain. It may also be linked to high blood pressure. Although the pain can be intense, the condition is not life-threatening. It can be a progressive disease, though, meaning that it gets worse over time.


Question: Are there alternative treatments for trigeminal neuralgia?

Answer: These are some you may want to ask your doctor about: Acupuncture (a Chinese tradition that uses very thin needles to balance the flow of energy in your body) Aromatherapy (the use of plant oils such as peppermint, lavender, etc., to help healing) Meditation Yoga


Question: What medications treat trigeminal neuralgia?

Answer: Medication: Your doctor may prescribe medicines that keep the nerves from reacting to irritation. These drugs are called anticonvulsants. You also may take muscle relaxants -- alone or along with anticonvulsants. Typical pain medications don't work well for people with trigeminal neuralgia, so your doctor may suggest a tricyclic antidepressant to manage your symptoms.


Question: What does the trigeminal nerve do?

Answer: Each trigeminal nerve splits into three branches, controlling the feeling for different parts of your face. They are: The ophthalmic branch. This affects your lower eyelid, cheek, nostril, upper lip, and upper gum. The mandibular branch.


Question: When do you need surgery for trigeminal neuralgia?

Answer: Surgery: Over time, your medication may help you less and less. That's common among people with trigeminal neuralgia. If that happens, you have several surgical options. Procedures include: Microvascular decompression, which moves or takes out blood vessels that are affecting the nerve. Gamma knife radiosurgery, which uses radiation focused on your trigeminal nerve. Rhizotomy, which destroys nerve fibers.


Question: What are side effects of chromium?

Answer: Chromium -- specifically, trivalent chromium -- is an essential trace element that's used by some people as a supplement. Chromium seems to have few side effects. There have been some reports of chromium causing occasional irregular heartbeats, sleep disturbances, headaches, mood changes, and allergic reactions. Chromium may increase the risk of kidney or liver damage. If you have kidney or liver disease, do not take chromium without talking to your doctor first.


Question: How safe is chromium?

Answer: Chromium -- specifically, trivalent chromium -- is an essential trace element that's used by some people as a supplement. Experts don't know how much chromium people need. Excessive doses of chromium may actually worsen insulin sensitivity.


Question: What are types of food that I can get chromium?

Answer: Chromium -- specifically, trivalent chromium -- is an essential trace element that's used by some people as a supplement. Perhaps most importantly, chromium forms a compound in the body that seems to enhance the effects of insulin and lower glucose levels. Foods that are good sources of chromium include: Vegetables such as broccoli, potatoes, and green beans Whole-grain products Beef and poultry Fruits, including apples and bananas; grape juice Milk and dairy products Side effects.


Question: How does chromium interact with other drugs?

Answer: Chromium -- specifically, trivalent chromium -- is an essential trace element that's used by some people as a supplement. If you have kidney or liver disease, do not take chromium without talking to your doctor first. Since chromium may affect blood sugar levels, it is crucial that anyone taking diabetes medications, like insulin, only use chromium under the care of a medical doctor. Chromium may also interact with drugs like antacids, acid reflux drugs, corticosteroids, beta-blockers, insulin, thyroid medicine and NSAID painkillers. These interactions may cause the chromium to be poorly absorbed or amplify the effect of the other medicine.


Question: Why do people take chromium?

Answer: Chromium -- specifically, trivalent chromium -- is an essential trace element that's used by some people as a supplement. Some studies have shown that chromium supplements may be helpful for people with type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance (prediabetes). There's good evidence that chromium can lower glucose levels and improve insulin sensitivity, although not all studies have shown a benefit. Chromium supplements have also been studied for their effects on cholesterol, heart disease risk, psychological disorders, Parkinson's disease, and other conditions. However, the study results have been contradictory or unclear. Some chromium studies have shown these benefits, but others have not.


Question: What symptoms might you have if you have acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and fewer platelets than normal?

Answer: Infections can cause symptoms like these: Fever Weakness Achy muscles Fatigue Diarrhea If you have fewer platelets than usual, your blood may not clot as well as it should. You might have symptoms like these: Easy bruising Bleeding that can be hard to stop Bleeding gums Small red spots under your skin caused by bleeding Nosebleeds Sores that don't heal Leukemia cells can spread to other parts of your body and cause symptoms like these: Balance problems Blurred vision Bone or joint pain Numbness in your face Seizures Spots or a rash on your skin Swelling in your belly Swollen, bleeding gums Swollen glands in your neck, groin, underarms, or above your collarbone If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor.


Question: What symptoms might you have if you have acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and fewer healthy red blood cells?

Answer: There are several forms of AML. Each affects a different kind of blood cell. The symptoms you have depend on the type of blood cell that's affected. If you have fewer healthy red blood cells than normal, you'll have symptoms like these: Tiredness Weakness Pale skin Irregular heartbeat Dizziness Cold hands and feet Shortness of breath Headaches Weight loss Loss of appetite If you have fewer healthy white blood cells than normal, you may get more infections than usual.


Question: What symptoms might you have if you have acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and fewer healthy white blood cells than normal?

Answer: If you have fewer healthy red blood cells than normal, you'll have symptoms like these: Tiredness Weakness Pale skin Irregular heartbeat Dizziness Cold hands and feet Shortness of breath Headaches Weight loss Loss of appetite If you have fewer healthy white blood cells than normal, you may get more infections than usual. These infections may take a long time to get better. Infections can cause symptoms like these: Fever Weakness Achy muscles Fatigue Diarrhea If you have fewer platelets than usual, your blood may not clot as well as it should.


Question: How is sleep apnea treated?

Answer: There are several treatments for sleep problems in people with diabetes, depending on the condition: Sleep Apnea If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor may suggest that you lose weight to help you breathe more easily. Another potential treatment is continuous positive airway pressure ( CPAP). With CPAP, patients wear a mask over their nose and/or mouth. An air blower forces air through the nose and/or mouth. The air pressure is adjusted so that it is just enough to prevent the upper airway tissues from collapsing during sleep. The pressure is constant and continuous. CPAP prevents airway closure while in use, but apnea episodes return when CPAP is stopped or is used improperly.


Question: What is restless legs syndrome relative to type 2 diabetes and sleep?

Answer: Restless Legs Syndrome Restless legs syndrome is a specific sleep disorder that causes an intense, often irresistible urge to move your legs. This sleep disorder is often accompanied by other sensations in the legs such as tingling, pulling, or pain, making it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep.


Question: How can you prevent retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: Usually, an underlying medical condition brings on a retinal vein occlusion. So it's important to keep your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar under control. If you have diabetes, get your eyes checked every year. If you take birth control pills, talk to your doctor. Rarely, they can lead to retinal vein occlusion.


Question: How is focal laser therapy used for retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: A laser burns and seals off blood vessels near the macula. This keeps them from leaking. The retina does not have pain nerves, so you should not feel much discomfort.


Question: What tests are used to diagnose retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: Your doctor may also order a test called a fluorescein angiography. You'll get a harmless dye injected into your arm. When it travels through your bloodstream and reaches the retina, a special camera takes pictures of your eye. Your doctor will be able see any fluid leaks in your blood vessels. Sometimes, you may also need a test called optical coherence tomography. You may get drops to dilate your pupils and then a machine scans your eyes with rays of light to make a detailed image of your retina.


Question: How are injections used to treat retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: A drug called anti-vascular endothelial growth factor targets substances that cause fluid buildup in a part of your retina called the macula, which provides your central vision and helps you see details like fine print. This helps to ease swelling. Or your doctor may give you steroid injections in your eye instead. Your doctor will apply a pain-numbing drug first and use a very thin needle, so you shouldn't feel much discomfort.


Question: What are the symptoms of retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: Other things also can raise your odds for the condition: Smoking Being overweight Older age Hardened arteries, called atherosclerosis Glaucoma Lymphoma Leukemia Multiple myeloma Trauma to the eye You may not always know that you're going to have retinal vein occlusion. Almost always, it happens in only one eye. Some people -- especially those with blockage in smaller blood vessels -- have no symptoms.


Question: What is the outlook for retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: These treatments may help you get your vision back. Most people's eyesight will get better after a few months.


Question: When do I need laser surgery for retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: Laser surgery: You may need this if you grow new blood vessels in your eye. Your doctor will use a laser to make tiny burns on the retina. It stops the vessels from leaking and growing.


Question: What can happen if I have retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: The damage happens when a blocked vein keeps blood from draining from the retina. That raises pressure inside your eye, which can cause bleeding, swelling, and fluid leaks. Retinal vein occlusions can harm your eye in minutes. Usually, a blood clot blocks the vein. Sometimes, a nearby artery can be a problem. In the retina, arteries and veins cross over each other. When an artery hardens, it can press against a vein and narrow the opening. This causes choppy blood flow, which may lead to clotting. So if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, and other conditions that affect the blood vessels, you're more likely to have retinal vein occlusion.


Question: What are noticeable symptoms of retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: Usually, though, you may notice: Blurry or missing vision in part or all of an eye Dark spots or lines floating in your vision Pain and pressure in the eye If you have any of these symptoms, see a doctor right away.


Question: What other things can also raise your odds for retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: Other things also can raise your odds for the condition: Smoking Being overweight Older age Hardened arteries, called atherosclerosis Glaucoma Lymphoma Leukemia Multiple myeloma Trauma to the eye You may not always know that you're going to have retinal vein occlusion.


Question: How will your doctor diagnose retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: She'll put drops in your eyes to open up your pupils. She'll use a tool called an ophthalmoscope to check your retina for signs of blockage or bleeding. Your doctor will be able see any fluid leaks in your blood vessels.


Question: What is retinal vein occlusion?

Answer: When a vein in the retina becomes blocked, it's called retinal vein occlusion. This can give you blurry vision or even sudden permanent blindness in that eye. It's similar to retinal artery occlusion, which is sometimes called an eye stroke. You may get drops to dilate your pupils and then a machine scans your eyes with rays of light to make a detailed image of your retina.


Question: How can you reward yourself for quitting smoking?

Answer: Small rewards might include: A new magazine A dozen golf balls New earrings New lipstick or nail polish Bigger rewards: A nice dinner out Tickets to a sports event or concert An evening at the movies or theater A massage or facial A weekend away When You're Stressed Many people smoke when they feel anxious, stressed, or depressed.


Question: What should you do when you're stressed to avoid smoking?

Answer: A smoker will think, â I need a cigarette!â But you're not a smoker anymore. So instead of grabbing a cigarette, argue with yourself. Be your own devil's advocate and talk back to your irrational thoughts. Keep it up until you no longer feel like you need to smoke. Bit by bit, you'll put it in the past.


Question: How quickly do withdrawal symptoms occur after you stop smoking and how bad are they?

Answer: The symptoms of nicotine withdrawal include: Anxiety Irritability Headache Trouble sleeping Fatigue Hunger They kick in fast. Research shows that the average smoker starts to feel the symptoms of withdrawal within an hour of putting out his last cigarette. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and trouble concentrating can appear within the first 3 hours. It's intense but short, though it might not feel that way at the time.


Question: How can you prepare to quit smoking?

Answer: During the week before your "quit day," make the following preparations: List all the reasons you want to kick the habit. Save them on your phone. Print them out on index cards and stash them where you used to put your cigarettes -- in your purse, in your desk drawer, on your nightstand. Pay attention to when you smoke, where, and with whom. Then make plans for what you can do instead. Think of alternatives that will keep your mind and body occupied. Pick a good quit day. Don't choose a day that's in the middle of your most intense month at work, or right before finals, or while a loved one is seriously ill. After You Quit So you've made your preparations, you've thrown away your packs, and you've smoked your last cigarette.


Question: How do you test for genital herpes?

Answer: When there's a genital herpes outbreak, a doctor can swab the sores to check for the herpes virus. The sooner the swab is taken after an outbreak starts, the better the chances of the test being accurate. The common way to find out whether you've got the virus is through genital herpes blood tests. Genital herpes blood tests show whether you have herpes -- and whether it's type 1 or type 2. Blood samples are usually used to see if the immune system has produced antibodies against the herpes virus. Results take several days and only tell that you have been exposed to the virus at some point. A positive test for HSV-2 probably indicates that you have the infection.


Question: Where can you get tested for genital herpes?

Answer: But it's much better to be able to understand your test results in the context of regular medical care. Talk with your doctor about herpes testing. Many areas also have state or county public health clinics that may offer tests at a lower cost.


Question: Should pregnant women be tested for herpes?

Answer: And if a woman is going to have a baby, she should know whether she has genital herpes. It's rare for a mother to give herpes to her newborn -- unless it is a new infection or she is having an outbreak of genital herpes during delivery.


Question: What are some tips to help prevent a schizophrenia relapse?

Answer: Take medicine as instructed. Do this even if schizophrenia symptoms have gone away. Stopping medicine is the most common cause of relapses. How quickly this happens varies. It can be days, weeks, or months after stopping. Work closely with your doctor to find the lowest dose to control symptoms, as well as the best method and type of medication. For example, a once-a-month, long-acting antipsychotic given by a shot helps some people stay on track. Avoid alcohol and illegal drugs. They make symptoms worse and a relapse more likely. Friends and family members can help you find services that treat substance abuse problems.


Question: What might help with triggering schizophrenia symptoms?

Answer: For people with schizophrenia, stress can trigger symptoms. When you feel overwhelmed, step back and take a break. If you're supporting a friend or relative with schizophrenia, try to help them find healthy ways to relax. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise each day. Some studies suggest that exercise, along with medications, may help schizophrenia symptoms. To stick with it, find an exercise partner. Do your best to get the sleep you need. Sleep can be a problem for people with schizophrenia. Exercise and limiting caffeine help.


Question: What are some later warning signs of a schizophrenia relapse?

Answer: Be alert to these early signs: Trouble sleeping Eating less Trouble concentrating or being disorganized Staying away from other people or disappearing unexpectedly Mood changes, nervousness, or irritability Having strange ideas or disorganized thinking Poor personal hygiene Speech that doesn't make sense Hearing voices Delusions, suspiciousness, or increased paranoia Aggressive talk Suicidal thoughts Some later signs may include: Physical aggression against yourself or others Smiling for no reason Strange thoughts Breaking things It's important to avoid relapses, because each one can raise the chance of future relapses. And when relapses happen, symptoms may become harder to treat.


Question: What should someone do if they have a schizophrenia relapse?

Answer: But relapses can happen. That means that the symptoms come back. You can help prevent them by watching out for early warning signs. Talk to your doctor right away if you -- or your family and friends -- notice any of these signs. The doctor may be able to adjust treatment or help you get back on track if you stopped taking your meds. It can be days, weeks, or months after stopping.


Question: How does a tetatnus shot work?

Answer: You normally receive tetanus shots in the deltoid (shoulder) muscle. If you did not receive a tetanus vaccine as a child, you should start with a three-dose primary series with the first dose being a three-in-one combination called Tdap that protects against tetanus, diphtheria ( Td) and pertussis (whooping cough). The other two doses are a dual vaccine ( Td) cover tetanus and diphtheria. You receive these vaccines over a period of seven to 12 months. Vaccination against pertussis is especially important for those in direct contact with young infants or patients. After receiving the primary series, get a Td booster every 10 years.


Question: What are the side effects of a tetanus shot?

Answer: However, sometimes the tetanus vaccine can cause mild side effects. These may include: Soreness, redness, or swelling at the site of the injection Fever Headache or body aches Fatigue A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is also very rare, but can result within minutes of being vaccinated.


Question: What's in a tetanus shot?

Answer: The vaccines are made up of tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis toxins that have been made nontoxic but they still have the ability to create an immune response. These vaccines do not contain live bacteria.


Question: How do you get tetanus?

Answer: You can get it through a cut or other wound. Tetanus bacteria are commonly present in soil, dust, and manure. The tetanus bacteria can infect a person even through a tiny scratch. But you are more likely to get tetanus through deep punctures from wounds created by nails or knives. The bacteria travel via blood or nerves to the central nervous system.


Question: Can pregnant women get a tetanus shot?

Answer: In fact, current guidelines recommend that all pregnant women receive a Tdap vaccine each time they are pregnant, specifically to prevent pertussis. Wait to get the Tdap vaccine if you have a moderate to severe acute illness.


Question: What are the symptoms of tetanus?

Answer: Symptoms often begin around a week after infection. But this may range from three days to three weeks or even longer. The most common symptom is a stiff jaw, which can become "locked." This is how the disease came to be called lockjaw. Symptoms of tetanus may include: Headache Muscle stiffness, starting in the jaw, then the neck and the arms, legs, or abdomen Trouble swallowing Restlessness and irritability Sweating and fever Palpitations and high blood pressure Muscle spasms in the face, causing a strange-looking steady smile or grin If not treated, tetanus can cause death from suffocation.


Question: Can everyone get a tetanus shot?

Answer: You should have a tetanus shot if you: Did not receive a primary series of tetanus shots as a child Have not had a tetanus booster in the last 10 years Have recovered from tetanus You should not get a Tdap vaccine if you have had a severe allergic reaction after a previous Tdap vaccine. You also should not get a Tdap vaccine if you have a history of coma or seizures within a week following a previous Tdap vaccine. Talk to your doctor if you have a history of epilepsy or other nervous system problems, severe pain or swelling in the past after a previous tetanus vaccine, or a history of either Guillain- Barre syndrome or chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy.


Question: Can you prevent tetanus?

Answer: Thanks to its widespread use, lockjaw has become very rare in the U. S. Even so, many adults in the U. S. need to be vaccinated against tetanus because there is no cure and 10% to 20% of victims will die. The vaccines are made up of tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis toxins that have been made nontoxic but they still have the ability to create an immune response.


Question: What do you need to know about epilepsy at school?

Answer: They often worry that their child's teacher may not know how to handle an epileptic seizure, or that their child may be treated unfairly because of epilepsy. In many cases, these fears turn out to be unfounded. Parents should know that epilepsy isn't that uncommon. There's a good chance that yours won't be the first child with epilepsy that the teacher has seen. Lastly, depression may be a serious and unrecognized issue for children with epilepsy. Parents should not assume these symptoms are normal for children with epilepsy.


Question: Who is at risk for tinnitus?

Answer: Carpenters, pilots, rock musicians, street-repair workers, and landscapers are among those whose jobs put them at risk, as are people who work with chain saws, guns, or other loud devices or who repeatedly listen to loud music. A single exposure to a sudden extremely loud noise can also cause tinnitus.


Question: What conditions and illnesses can lead to tinnitus?

Answer: The natural aging process, which can cause deterioration of the cochlea or other parts of the ear Meniere's disease, which affects the inner part of the ear Otosclerosis, a disease that results in stiffening of the small bones in the middle ear Other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, circulatory problems, anemia, allergies, an underactive thyroid gland, autoimmune disease, and diabetes Neck or jaw problems, such as temporomandibular joint ( TMJ) syndrome Injuries to the head and neck Tinnitus can worsen in some people if they drink alcohol, smoke cigarettes, drink caffeinated beverages, or eat certain foods.


Question: What does tinnitus cause?

Answer: In fact, some people with tinnitus experience no difficulty hearing, and in a few cases they even become so acutely sensitive to sound (hyperacusis) that they must take steps to muffle or mask external noises. Up to 90% of people with tinnitus have some level of noise-induced hearing loss.


Question: How can you recognize and prevent depression in bipolar disorder?

Answer: If you are thinking about suicide or hurting yourself: Tell someone who can help you right now Call your mental health professional Call your doctor Call 911 or go to the emergency room The manic and depressive phases of bipolar disorder don't necessarily follow a pattern. You can have a few bouts of depression before you have a manic phase. But over time, you'll notice things that cause changes in your mood and warning signs that depression could be setting in. When you catch those symptoms early, you can often avoid major depression. Keep a mood chart to track how you feel, your treatments, sleep, and other activities. Take note of times when you feel stressed -- maybe when you're with certain people or in a specific place. The first signs of depression could be that you feel tired and can't sleep. Short periods of depression can be a sign that a severe phase is coming. The people around you can help you recognize patterns, too. Ask your family and mental health professional to watch for changes in your behavior that signal an oncoming issue. They may be able to notice things that you don't. Even when you feel great, make sure to keep up with your treatment -- it can prevent a relapse of depression. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, and try new ways to ease stress and manage your moods: Join a support group, take up a hobby, or practice relaxation methods like meditation, yoga, or massage.