Question: What are symptoms of high-pressure headaches?

Answer: The symptoms of a high-pressure headache often mimic those of a brain tumor, which is why IIH used to be called âpseudotumor cerebri,â or âfalse brain tumor.â Those symptoms include: Migraine-like or throbbing pain that's often worse in the morning Neck and shoulder pain Headaches that get worse with coughing, sneezing, or exertion Severe headaches that last for a long time Changes in vision or a ringing in the ears IIH is rare.


Question: How are low-pressure headaches treated?

Answer: Treatment: Your symptoms may go away by themselves. Sometimes, rest, drinking lots of water, and caffeine may help. A common treatment is something called an epidural blood patch, which tries to stop your CSF leak. Blood is taken from your arm and injected into an area of your spinal canal to âpatchâ the leak. This may not work the first time -- the actual spot where the CSF leaks is hard to find -- so you may have to go through the procedure several times. Your doctor may prescribe a medicine called theophylline.


Question: What is a remission of multiple sclerosis?

Answer: An attack is followed by a time of recovery when you have few or no symptoms, called remission. It can last weeks, months, or longer. The disease doesn't get worse during these breaks.


Question: What are the symptoms of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis?

Answer: No two people with MS are likely to have the same symptoms in the same way. Some may come and go or appear once and not again. The symptoms you have depend on the area of your brain or spinal cord that the disease has damaged. They can include: Eye pain and vision problems such as double vision or jumpy vision. These problems may be the first sign you have RRMS. Numbness and tingling Sensitivity to heat Pain that runs down the spine, like a mild electrical shock, when you bend your neck Dizziness Bowel or bladder problems Sexual problems, like trouble getting aroused or climaxing Stiff muscles and trouble moving your body Feeling weak and tired Problems with balance and coordination A hard time thinking clearly Depression An RRMS attack can last anywhere from 24 hours to several weeks.


Question: What other drugs can be used to treat different relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) symptoms?

Answer: A short-term, high-dose course of steroids can help: Reduce inflammation Make the relapse shorter and less severe Your doctor may prescribe other types of drugs to treat different RRMS symptoms. For example, you might take: Antidepressants Pain relievers Drugs to fight fatigue A healthy lifestyle is an important way to feel your best.


Question: How do symptom flares of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) happen?

Answer: The symptom flares of RRMS happen when the brain and spinal cord get inflamed. Reducing the inflammation is key to treating a relapse.


Question: When should you talk to your doctor about relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)?

Answer: It can involve: One or many symptoms An existing problem that gets worse A new symptom Tell your doctor about signs of a relapse as soon as possible. If you treat it quickly, you might be able to reduce lasting damage and disability.


Question: How do steroid treatments help with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)?

Answer: A short-term, high-dose course of steroids can help: Reduce inflammation Make the relapse shorter and less severe Your doctor may prescribe other types of drugs to treat different RRMS symptoms.


Question: What medications are used to treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)?

Answer: Some medications for RRMS fight the disease by turning down the body's immune system so that it doesn't attack nerves. These are called disease-modifying drugs ( DMDs). Doctors might also call them immunotherapy or disease-modifying therapy ( DMT). These drugs make relapses happen less often and make them less severe. They may keep the disease from getting worse for a while.


Question: What are the symptoms of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)?

Answer: No two people with MS are likely to have the same symptoms in the same way. Some may come and go or appear once and not again. The symptoms you have depend on the area of your brain or spinal cord that the disease has damaged. They can include: Eye pain and vision problems such as double vision or jumpy vision. These problems may be the first sign you have RRMS. Numbness and tingling Sensitivity to heat Pain that runs down the spine, like a mild electrical shock, when you bend your neck Dizziness Bowel or bladder problems Sexual problems, like trouble getting aroused or climaxing Stiff muscles and trouble moving your body Feeling weak and tired Problems with balance and coordination A hard time thinking clearly Depression An RRMS attack can last anywhere from 24 hours to several weeks.


Question: What oral disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) are used to treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)?

Answer: These include: Alemtuzumab ( Lemtrada) Mitoxantrone ( Novantrone) Natalizumab ( Tysabri) Ocrelizumab ( Ocrevus) Three types of DMDs come in pill form. They are: Dimethyl fumarate ( Tecfidera) Fingolimod ( Gilenya) Teriflunomide ( Aubagio) DMDs have side effects.


Question: What should you keep in mind when exercising to help with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)?

Answer: Exercise can help you: Stay mobile Control your weight Boost your mood and energy levels Try different types of exercise, including activities to get your heart pumping, like walking or swimming, and moves that strengthen your muscles and stretch your body. When you make an exercise plan, keep in mind: Start slowly, even with 5 to 10 minutes of activity. Avoid getting overheated if you are sensitive to temperature. Ask a physical therapist to help you build an exercise program.


Question: What intravenous disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) are used to treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS)?

Answer: These drugs include: Glatiramer ( Copaxone) Interferon beta-1a ( Avonex, Rebif) Interferon beta-1b ( Betaseron) Peginterferon beta -1a ( Plegridy) You'll need to take some DMDs through an IV at a clinic or hospital. These include: Alemtuzumab ( Lemtrada) Mitoxantrone ( Novantrone) Natalizumab ( Tysabri) Ocrelizumab ( Ocrevus) Three types of DMDs come in pill form.


Question: How can relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) change to a different type of multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: After 10 to 20 years, RRMS usually changes to a different type of MS called secondary progressive multiple sclerosis. You won't have relapses as often, but the disease gets gradually worse.


Question: How long do relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) attacks last and what does it involve?

Answer: Numbness and tingling Sensitivity to heat Pain that runs down the spine, like a mild electrical shock, when you bend your neck Dizziness Bowel or bladder problems Sexual problems, like trouble getting aroused or climaxing Stiff muscles and trouble moving your body Feeling weak and tired Problems with balance and coordination A hard time thinking clearly Depression An RRMS attack can last anywhere from 24 hours to several weeks. It can involve: One or many symptoms An existing problem that gets worse A new symptom Tell your doctor about signs of a relapse as soon as possible.


Question: Are steroids used to treat flare-ups of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis?

Answer: The symptom flares of RRMS happen when the brain and spinal cord get inflamed. Reducing the inflammation is key to treating a relapse. Mild flares may not need treatment. If you have severe symptoms, your doctor may recommend steroids. You can take some of these medications through an IV and others by mouth.


Question: How can a dose of steroids help treat relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis?

Answer: A short-term, high-dose course of steroids can help: Reduce inflammation Make the relapse shorter and less severe Your doctor may prescribe other types of drugs to treat different RRMS symptoms.


Question: What disease-modifying drugs for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis can be taken by injection?

Answer: You can take some DMDs by injection. These drugs include: Glatiramer ( Copaxone) Interferon beta-1a ( Avonex, Rebif) Interferon beta-1b ( Betaseron) Peginterferon beta -1a ( Plegridy) You'll need to take some DMDs through an IV at a clinic or hospital.


Question: What are relapses of multiple sclerosis?

Answer: If you have RRMS, you may have attacks when your symptoms flare up. These are called relapses.


Question: What is the treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Most people with RRMS manage the disease with: Medication Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other forms of rehab Healthy habits For most people with RRMS, it's best to start treatment as soon as they're diagnosed to avoid lasting nerve damage.


Question: Is it important to be healthy when you have relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis?

Answer: For example, you might take: Antidepressants Pain relievers Drugs to fight fatigue A healthy lifestyle is an important way to feel your best. Be sure to: Eat a nutritious diet Keep a healthy weight It's also important to be active when you have MS.


Question: Are there side effects of disease-modifying drugs used to treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: They are: Dimethyl fumarate ( Tecfidera) Fingolimod ( Gilenya) Teriflunomide ( Aubagio) DMDs have side effects. You and your doctor will weigh the pros and cons of each drug.


Question: What are short-acting medications for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: They include: Amphetamines: Mixed amphetamine salts ( Adderall, Evekeo) Dextroamphetamine ( Dexedrine, Pro Centra) Methylphenidates: Dexmethylphenidate SR ( Focalin) Methylphenidate immediate release ( Ritalin, Methylin) This kind of medicine helps if you need to focus for just a few hours. Perhaps you're working on spreadsheets or writing a report and need to be sharp. A short-acting med peaks and falls in your bloodstream quickly. You might feel irritable when it wears off. That's called a rebound effect. If you want to control symptoms all day, you'll need to pop more than one pill. That can be inconvenient and hard to remember to do when you're busy.


Question: What is bipolar disorder?

Answer: Also known as manic depression, bipolar disorder causes swings in mood, energy, and the ability to function throughout the day. Symptoms: Bipolar disorder is known for alternating periods of depression and mania that can last from days to months. During a manic, hypomanic, or depressed episode with "mixed features," symptoms of depression and mania happen at the same time.


Question: How is borderline disorder treated?

Answer: Self-harm (e.g., cutting) or suicidal behavior Mood swings involving anger and depression, usually in response to stressful events or relationships Feelings of emptiness Problems managing anger and unpleasant emotions Paranoia Treatment: Long-term treatment is usually necessary for people with borderline personality disorder. Treatment mainly involves specific forms of psychotherapy, such as dialectical behavior therapy ( DBT) or transference-focused psychotherapy ( TFP) aimed at helping people manage impulses (such as suicidal urges or tendencies to self-harm when they feel upset), feelings of distress or anger, and emotional oversensitivities to interactions with other people. Medications are also sometimes used to help with these symptoms, although they are not always effective and not considered to be the main focus of treatment in borderline personality disorder. Sometimes, short hospital stays are also needed to manage times of crisis that involve threats to safety and well-being.


Question: What are the symptoms of bipoloar disorder depression?

Answer: Less sleep, but no feeling of being tired During periods of depression, symptoms might include: Drop in energy Lasting sadness Less activity and energy Restlessness and irritability Problems concentrating and making decisions Worry and anxiety No interest in favorite activities Feelings of guilt and hopelessness; suicidal thoughts Change in appetite or sleep patterns Treatment: Most people with bipolar disorder need lifelong treatment to keep their condition managed.


Question: What are the symptoms of bordeorline disorder?

Answer: Symptoms: A person with borderline personality disorder has trouble controlling his thoughts and managing his feelings, and often has impulsive and reckless behavior. Here are the condition's main symptoms: Frantic efforts to avoid feeling abandoned History of unstable, intense relationships Tendency to view people and situations as either "all good" or "all bad" Poor self-image Impulsiveness (spending, sex, substance abuse, etc.)


Question: What are the symptoms of normal-tension glaucoma?

Answer: You're more likely to get this type of glaucoma if you: Have a family history of the condition Are of Japanese descent Have ever had heart disease You might not notice any problem in the early stages. Glaucoma is sometimes called a "silent thief of sight." Your optic nerve is like an electric cable. It's made up of more than a million tiny fibers, or "wires." As the nerve fibers die, you'll begin to get blind spots in your vision. But you may not notice them until most of your optic nerve fibers are dead. Without treatment, the first sign of normal-tension glaucoma is often the loss of your peripheral, or side, vision. You might start to miss things out of the corner of your eye. As the condition gets worse, your vision narrows. It's as if you're looking through a tunnel. If all the fibers in your optic nerve die, you become blind.


Question: How can surgery help with normal-tension glaucoma?

Answer: Surgery If medicines and laser treatments don't control your eye pressure, your doctor may talk to you about different surgery options. One procedure, called a trabeculectomy, creates a new opening in the white of your eye (or sclera) for fluid to drain. Or you might be able to get a tiny drainage tube implanted in your eye to reduce pressure.


Question: How can laser treatment help with normal-tension glaucoma?

Answer: Laser Treatment An eye surgeon will use a laser to unclog and open the drain holes in your eye. This way, fluid can flow out more easily and eye pressure will be reduced. You can get the laser treatment done in your ophthalmologist's office or an outpatient surgery center.


Question: How can eye drops help with normal-tension glaucoma?

Answer: Eye Drops These are usually the first step in glaucoma treatment. Some prescription drops cause your eye to make less fluid. That helps lower pressure. Other drops help the fluid drain from your eye better.


Question: What are the symptoms of heart failure?

Answer: Symptoms of heart failure include: Shortness of breath Swelling in the feet, ankles, or abdomen Difficulty sleeping flat in bed Bloating Irregular pulse Nausea Fatigue Greater need to urinate at night High blood pressure can also cause ischemic heart disease.


Question: Can high blood pressure bring on heart failure?

Answer: High blood pressure may also bring on heart failure by causing left ventricular hypertrophy, a thickening of the heart muscle that results in less effective muscle relaxation between heart beats. This makes it difficult for the heart to fill with enough blood to supply the body's organs, especially during exercise, leading your body to hold onto fluids and your heart rate to increase.


Question: What tests are used to help diagnose hypertensive heart disease?

Answer: Your doctor will look for certain signs of hypertensive heart disease, including: High blood pressure Enlarged heart and irregular heartbeat Fluid in the lungs or lower extremities Unusual heart sounds Your doctor may perform tests to determine if you have hypertensive heart disease, including an electrocardiogram, echocardiogram, cardiac stress test, chest X-ray, and coronary angiogram.


Question: What is hypertensive heart disease?

Answer: It refers to a group of disorders that includes heart failure, ischemic heart disease, and left ventricular hypertrophy (excessive thickening of the heart muscle).


Question: What are the symptoms of ischemic heart disease?

Answer: Symptoms of ischemic heart disease may include: Chest pain which may radiate (travel) to the arms, back, neck, or jaw Chest pain with nausea, sweating, shortness of breath, and dizziness; these associated symptoms may also occur without chest pain Irregular pulse Fatigue and weakness Any of these symptoms of ischemic heart disease warrant immediate medical evaluation.


Question: What kinds of food should I eat for a low-fat diet?

Answer: Eat plenty of plant foods (such as whole-grains, fruits, and vegetables) and a moderate amount of lean and low-fat, animal-based food (meat and dairy products) to help control your fat, cholesterol, carbs, and calories. When you're shopping, choose lean meats, fish, and poultry. Limit these to 5-7 ounces per day. Other good low-fat sources of protein include dried beans and peas, tofu, low-fat yogurt, low-fat or skim milk, low-fat cheese, and tuna packed in water. Choose foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, flaxseed, and walnuts for heart health. The American Heart Association recommends eating fatty fish such as salmon twice weekly for the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.


Question: What are tips for low-fat cooking?

Answer: Trim all visible fat and remove the skin from poultry. Refrigerate soups, gravies, and stews, and remove the hardened fat on top before eating. Bake, broil, or grill meats on a rack that allows fat to drip from the meat. Don't fry foods. Sprinkle lemon juice, herbs, and spices on cooked vegetables instead of using cheese, butter, or cream-based sauces. Try plain, nonfat or low-fat yogurt and chives on baked potatoes rather than sour cream. Reduced-fat sour cream still has fat, so limit the amount you use.


Question: How can you protect an infant or newborn from the flu?

Answer: If you have a newborn, it's important to protect him from people who have flu symptoms. Ask your day care about its "sick child" policy. Can parents drop off kids who have fever or other symptoms? Babies under 6 months can't get flu shots. That means parents, family members, and caregivers should get vaccinated to protect little ones from the flu.


Question: How can you protect your child from the flu?

Answer: Watch what he puts in his mouth. Wash teething rings, pacifiers, and other "mouth" toys often with soap and water, then dry them. Wash his hands with soap and water often. Replace his toothbrush frequently, and keep it apart from other family members' brushes.


Question: What is the difference between primary and secondary hyperhidrosis?

Answer: Primary hyperhidrosis is the most common cause of excessive sweating. It's not due to any medical condition -- it is the condition. Primary hyperhidrosis tends to start in childhood and run in families, and it usually causes heavy sweating on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, and armpits. Secondary hyperhidrosis is caused by a medical condition (such as cancer or an infection) or medication (which can include antidepressants and antipsychotic drugs). Sweating can occur over wider areas of your body.


Question: How do you treat a sweating problem?

Answer: That treatment may involve antiperspirants, iontophoresis (a technique that uses a low current passed through water to treat heavy sweating of the hands and feet), or Botox injections to block the nerve signals that trigger your sweat glands. If sweating is due to another condition, then treating the primary condition may help with symptoms.


Question: Can I exercise if I have neck pain?

Answer: As long as your doctor says it's OK, you should start as soon as possible to ease stiffness and pain. Resting for too long, usually anything more than a couple of days, will make it harder to get moving again. Don't exercise if you have severe neck pain or weakness in your hands or arms. If you get it while you exercise, stop right away and call your doctor.


Question: What is a side-to-side neck tilt?

Answer: Side-to- Side Neck Tilt. From the same starting position, tilt you neck toward one shoulder, leading with your ear. Hold for 5 seconds and then return to the starting position. Do this five times on each side.


Question: How do you do shoulder circles?

Answer: Shoulder Circles: Standing, raise your shoulders straight up and move them in a circle one way. Lower your shoulder and repeat in the other direction.


Question: How can I do rotations for my neck pain?

Answer: Rotations: Stand or sit with your back and your head squarely over your shoulders. Then, turn your head as far you can comfortably to one side. Hold it for up to 30 seconds. Then turn your head to the other side, and hold it for up to 30 seconds.


Question: How long does neck pain usually last?

Answer: Your pain should ease within 2 weeks. Full recovery should take 4-6 weeks. As your neck starts feeling better, you can do more of what you're used to.


Question: How can I do head lifts for my neck pain?

Answer: Head Lifts. Lying on the floor with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor, lift and lower your head. Make sure you don't raise your shoulders as you do this. You can also do these lying on your side and on your stomach.


Question: What should I eat if I have diarrhea and constipation due to cancer treatment?

Answer: Diarrhea and constipation: For diarrhea, it's really important to stay hydrated. Drink lots of liquids, and cut back on high-fiber foods like whole grains and vegetables. If you're constipated, slowly add more high-fiber foods to your diet. Plenty of liquids is key for this problem, too.


Question: When should I start focusing on changing my diet if I am being treated for cancer?

Answer: Start focusing on healthy foods even before you begin your treatment. You don't know how it will affect you or what kind of side effects you might have. That's why it's a good idea to get good nutrition now. It can help you feel better and your body stay strong.


Question: What is the best time of day to eat during cancer treatment?

Answer: Eat when you're hungry. If that's in the morning, make breakfast your biggest meal. Drink meal replacements later if your appetite fades as the day goes on. If meals are a struggle, eat five or six small ones instead of two or three big ones during the day. Have small, healthy snacks on hand, too. Yogurt, cereal, cheese and crackers, and soup are all good choices. If you're having chemotherapy, a snack or small meal right before a session might keep nausea away.


Question: Are any "cancer diets" effective?

Answer: Plenty of people tout "special" diets that they say will help treat cancer or keep it from coming back. Maybe you've heard that you should go vegan, vegetarian, or start a raw diet. Before you make any major changes, talk to your doctor. There's no diet that can cure cancer. There's also no good research that shows that any eating plan, like a vegetarian diet, for example, can lower the chance of cancer coming back. Your best bet is to stick with a balanced diet with lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Limit your sugar, caffeine, salt, and alcohol.


Question: Are there special diets for cancer?

Answer: Plenty of people tout "special" diets that they say will help treat cancer or keep it from coming back. Maybe you've heard that you should go vegan, vegetarian, or start a raw diet. Before you make any major changes, talk to your doctor. There's no diet that can cure cancer. There's also no good research that shows that any eating plan, like a vegetarian diet, for example, can lower the chance of cancer coming back. Your best bet is to stick with a balanced diet with lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Limit your sugar, caffeine, salt, and alcohol.


Question: What should you eat before your treatment for cancer?

Answer: Start focusing on healthy foods even before you begin your treatment. You don't know how it will affect you or what kind of side effects you might have. That's why it's a good idea to get good nutrition now. It can help you feel better and your body stay strong. It's also a good time to plan for the days when you won't feel like making anything to eat. Fill your fridge and pantry with healthy foods, especially those that need very little (or no) cooking. Nuts, applesauce, yogurt, pre-chopped veggies, and microwaveable brown rice or other whole grains are easy options. Make batches of some of your favorite entrees and freeze them, too. You may also want to line up some friends and family who can bring you meals for the first days or weeks of your therapy.


Question: What should you eat to manage mouth or throat problems from cancer treatment?

Answer: Mouth or throat problems: For sores, pain, or trouble swallowing, stick with soft foods. Avoid anything rough or scratchy, and spicy or acidic foods. Eat meals lukewarm (not hot or cold). And use a straw for soups or drinks.


Question: What should you eat to manage nausea or vomiting from cancer treatment?

Answer: Nausea/vomiting: Avoid high-fat, greasy, or spicy foods, or those with strong smells. Eat dry foods like crackers or toast every few hours. Sip clear liquids like broths, sports drinks, and water.


Question: What should you eat during your treatment for cancer?

Answer: You may have days when you feel hungry, and others when food is the last thing you want. On good days, eat lots of protein and healthy calories. That will keep your body strong and help repair damage from your treatment. High-protein foods include: Lean meat, chicken, and fish Eggs Beans, nuts, and seeds Cheese, milk, and yogurt Try to eat at least 2 1/2 cups of fruits and vegetables a day. Include dark green and deep yellow veggies, and citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits. Colorful foods like these have many healthy nutrients. Just be sure to wash them thoroughly. Drink plenty of liquids all day. Water is a great choice. Try fresh-squeezed juice, too. It gives you some extra vitamins along with the liquid your body needs to stay hydrated. It's also key that you don't eat raw or undercooked meat, fish, and poultry. Don't eat foods and beverages that are unpasteurized. Eat when you're hungry. If that's in the morning, make breakfast your biggest meal. Drink meal replacements later if your appetite fades as the day goes on. If meals are a struggle, eat five or six small ones instead of two or three big ones during the day. Have small, healthy snacks on hand, too. Yogurt, cereal, cheese and crackers, and soup are all good choices. If you're having chemotherapy, a snack or small meal right before a session might keep nausea away.


Question: What are weight loss tips from people who have lost a lot of weight?

Answer: For more inspiration, consider some of the key findings from more than 10,000 people who have lost at least 30 pounds and kept it off for at least a year. They shared their strategies with the National Weight Control Registry, which posted them on its web site: 78% eat breakfast every day.


Question: How can I find the cause of memory loss?

Answer: If you find that you are increasingly forgetful or if memory problems interfere with your daily life, schedule an appointment with your doctor to determine the cause and best treatment. To evaluate memory loss, your doctor will take a medical history, perform a physical exam -- including a neurologic exam -- and ask questions to test mental ability. Depending on the results, further evaluation may include blood and urine tests, nerve tests, and imaging tests of the brain such as computerized axial tomography ( CAT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI).


Question: How can sleep deprivation lead to memory loss?

Answer: Both quantity and quality of sleep are important to memory. Getting too little sleep or waking frequently in the night can lead to fatigue, which interferes with the ability to consolidate and retrieve information.


Question: How do I treat symptoms of broken or knocked-out teeth?

Answer: Control bleeding with sterile gauze or cloth. For pain and swelling, apply a cool compress. Encourage a child to suck on a frozen pop. For pain, take ibuprofen or acetaminophen.


Question: What is mind-body medicine?

Answer: That's where mind-body medicine comes in. This is a form of what doctors call complementary medicine. That means it isn't the traditional type of medicine you get in a pill or shot. These are practices you do in addition to your regular treatments to help you relax and focus your mind so you can get more control over your emotions and improve your physical health.


Question: How can guided imagery session help you?

Answer: One 20-minute guided imagery session a day can help: Ease stress and anxiety Slow your heart rate and breathing Lower your blood pressure Boost your immune system to help your body heal more quickly Relieve symptoms of your cancer Manage side effects of treatment How to do it: Sit or lie down in a quiet room and close your eyes.


Question: Does tai chi help you feel better if you have cancer?

Answer: It can help people with cancer: Ease anxiety, depression, and stress Lessen fatigue Get better sleep Improve their quality of life and emotional well-being Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art. Because it's made up of a series of gentle movements combined with deep breathing, it's sometimes called "meditation in motion." People with cancer who take up tai chi might notice: Lower anxiety and stress Less pain Harder-working immune system Higher quality of life Know that while they can be a helpful add-on to your cancer treatment, they aren't meant to replace standard options like chemotherapy and radiation.


Question: How is progressive muscle relaxation done?

Answer: It can help people with cancer manage side effects like: Anxiety and stress Depression Fatigue Nausea and vomiting Pain Trouble sleeping It's also easy to do: Lie down somewhere quiet. Tense then relax each group of muscles. Start with your feet and work your way up your body. Flex and relax your toes, feet, ankles, lower legs, upper legs, belly, chest, fingers, arms, shoulders, neck, and face. By the time you reach your head, you should feel calmer and more at ease.


Question: What type of mind-body medicine are yoga and tai chi?

Answer: Yoga and tai chi: These exercise programs blend deep breathing and relaxation. Yoga combines a series of strengthening, stretching, and balance poses with deep breathing. It can help people with cancer: Ease anxiety, depression, and stress Lessen fatigue Get better sleep Improve their quality of life and emotional well-being Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art.


Question: What type of mind-body medicine is meditation?

Answer: Meditation: This simple practice has been around for thousands of years. It's easy -- just sit quietly and breathe deeply. Sometimes you repeat a word or phrase called a mantra. The idea is to gain control over your thoughts and breathing to help you relax. Even though it's simple, meditation can do a lot of good for people with cancer. Mindfulness meditation, in which you focus only on the present moment and your breathing, can help ease stress, improve your coping skills, and enhance your well-being.


Question: How is guided imagery done?

Answer: One 20-minute guided imagery session a day can help: Ease stress and anxiety Slow your heart rate and breathing Lower your blood pressure Boost your immune system to help your body heal more quickly Relieve symptoms of your cancer Manage side effects of treatment How to do it: Sit or lie down in a quiet room and close your eyes. Breathe in and out deeply. Picture an image that's calming and pleasant, like a lake with mountains in the distance. Use all your senses. Feel the gentle breeze on your face. Smell the flower-scented air. Hear the wind ripple the water. Imagine your stress is a small boat moving away from the shore, and away from you.


Question: What is the outlook for lymphedema?

Answer: With proper care and treatment, your affected limb can be restored to a normal size and shape. The condition can usually be controlled so that it doesn't get worse. But remember, it's important to get your symptoms treated as soon as possible.


Question: What are some recommendations to prevent lymphedema?

Answer: It's a good idea to follow these tips, too: Avoid extreme temperature changes. Do not use hot tubs, whirlpools, saunas, or steam baths. Use warm, rather than hot, water when bathing or washing dishes. Always wear sun protection (at least SPF 30) when going outdoors. Talk to your doctor before traveling. When traveling by air, ask your doctor if you should wear a compression sleeve on your affected arm or a stocking on your affected leg. For long flights, additional bandages may be needed. When sitting or sleeping, elevate your affected arm or leg on pillows. Don't spend a lot of time lying on your affected side. Your doctor may refer you to an occupational therapist ( OT) who specializes in managing lymphedema. Your OT may have you do specific exercises, limit certain activities, and possibly recommend a compression sleeve or other devices.


Question: What are some symptoms of lymphedema?

Answer: Swelling in the arms, hands, fingers, shoulders, chest, or legs. A "full" or heavy sensation in the arms or legs Skin tightness Less flexibility in your hand, wrist, or ankle Trouble fitting into clothing in one specific area A tight-fitting bracelet, watch, or ring that wasn't tight before Your doctor will look into your medical history (including past surgeries and treatments) and your current medications and symptoms.


Question: How is lymphedema diagnosed?

Answer: A "full" or heavy sensation in the arms or legs Skin tightness Less flexibility in your hand, wrist, or ankle Trouble fitting into clothing in one specific area A tight-fitting bracelet, watch, or ring that wasn't tight before Your doctor will look into your medical history (including past surgeries and treatments) and your current medications and symptoms. She'll also give you a complete physical exam. She might ask you to take other tests, too, like an MRI, CT scan, or ultrasound to check for fluid build-up.


Question: How can someone keep their skin clean to avoid lymphedema?

Answer: Other treatments can include bandaging, proper skin care and diet, compression garments, exercises, and manual lymphatic drainage, a gentle form of skin stretching and massage.


Question: What symptoms should the doctor know about to avoid lymphedema?

Answer: Let her know if you have redness, swelling, a skin rash, or blistering on the side of your body where you had surgery, or if you have a temperature greater than 100.4 degrees F. These warning signs of infection could be an early sign of lymphedema and should be treated immediately.


Question: How common is it for women to get lymphedema after breast cancer treatment?

Answer: A small amount of swelling, even in your arm, is normal for the first 4 to 6 weeks after breast cancer surgery.


Question: What foods should someone cut back on to reduce getting lymphedema?

Answer: Get Good Nutrition Cut back on foods high in salt and fat. Have at least two to four servings of fruits and three to five servings of vegetables each day. Eat a variety of foods to get all the nutrients you need. Use the package label information to make healthy choices. Get fiber from whole-grain versions of breads, cereals, pasta, and rice. Fruit and veggies are good sources too. Drink plenty of water. Stay at your ideal body weight. A registered dietitian or your doctor can calculate it. Limit alcoholic drinks.


Question: Who is at risk for lymphedema?

Answer: People who've had any of these procedures may be at risk: Simple mastectomy in combination with axillary (arm pit) lymph node removal Lumpectomy in combination with axillary lymph node removal Modified radical mastectomy in combination with axillary lymph node removal Combined cancer surgery and radiation therapy to a lymph node region (such as the neck, armpit, groin, pelvis, or abdomen) Radiation therapy to a lymph node region You can get lymphedema within a few days of surgery, but it can also happen months or years afterward. If untreated, it can become worse.


Question: What is primary lymphedema?

Answer: Primary is rare. It happens when certain lymph vessels are missing or faulty at birth.


Question: What are possible problems after a ureteroscopy for kidney stones?

Answer: Possible problems after a ureteroscopy include: Infection Narrowing of the ureter Bleeding If your stone is large or lithotripsy doesn't break it up enough, this surgery is an option.


Question: How is shock wave lithotripsy used to treat kidney stones?

Answer: These four treatments can be used on your kidney stones: Shock wave lithotripsy Ureteroscopy Percutaneous nephrolithotomy or percutaneous nephrolithotripsy Open surgery Here's more about each of these: SWL is the most common kidney stone treatment. It works best for small or medium stones. It's noninvasive, which means no cuts are made in your skin. During this procedure, you lie on a table. You'll get medicine beforehand to limit any pain or discomfort. The doctor uses an X-ray or ultrasound to find the stone (or stones) in your kidney. Then, she aims high-energy shock waves at your kidney from the outside. These waves go through your skin and break up the stone into small pieces. The doctor might put a tube called a stent into your ureter (urine flows through this from your kidneys to your bladder). This stent helps the pieces of stone pass. SWL takes about an hour. You'll usually go home on the same day. Afterward, you'll drink lots of water to flush the stone pieces out in your urine. You might have to pee through a strainer to catch pieces of the stone so she can test them. SWL removes kidney stones in about half of people who have it. If it doesn't work, you might need to have the procedure repeated.


Question: How does ureteroscopy work to treat kidney stones?

Answer: More serious problems are less likely, but can include: Bleeding around the kidney Infection Damage to the kidney Stone that blocks the flow of urine This procedure treats stones in the kidneys and ureters. Your doctor uses a thin, flexible scope to find and remove stones. No cuts are made in your skin. You'll sleep through this procedure. Your doctor will pass the scope through your bladder and ureter into your kidney. She uses a small basket to remove small stones. If the stones are larger, the doctor will pass a laser through the scope to break them up. You usually are able to go home on the same day. The doctor might place a stent in your ureter to help urine drain from your kidney into your bladder. You'll go back to the doctor after 4 to 10 days to have the stent taken out. Some stents have a string on the end so you can pull it out yourself. Be sure to carefully follow your doctor's instructions about taking out a stent yourself.


Question: How are kidney stones treated?

Answer: These four treatments can be used on your kidney stones: Shock wave lithotripsy Ureteroscopy Percutaneous nephrolithotomy or percutaneous nephrolithotripsy Open surgery Here's more about each of these: SWL is the most common kidney stone treatment.


Question: What should you talk to your doctor about if you have kidney stones?

Answer: Ask your doctor these questions: What side effects can this surgery cause? What are the odds that it will treat my kidney stone? How long will I need to stay in the hospital afterward? What will you give me to control pain after surgery? Is there a chance I'll have to repeat the surgery?


Question: How does a percutaneous nephrolithotomy or percutaneous nephrolithotripsy work to treat kidney stones?

Answer: Possible problems after a ureteroscopy include: Infection Narrowing of the ureter Bleeding If your stone is large or lithotripsy doesn't break it up enough, this surgery is an option. PCNL uses a small tube to reach the stone and break it up with high-frequency sound waves. You will be given something so that you won't be awake during this surgery. Your surgeon will make a small cut in your back or side and place a thin scope into the hole.


Question: How is a percutaneous nephrolithotomy or percutaneous nephrolithotripsy done to treat kidney stones?

Answer: The surgery can be done in one of two ways: Nephrolithotomy: Your surgeon removes the stone through a tube Nephrolithotripsy: Your surgeon uses sound waves or a laser to break up the stone and then vacuums up the pieces with a suction machine. The surgery takes 20 to 45 minutes. You'll typically have to stay in the hospital for a day or two afterward. Usually, a stent will have to stay in your kidney for a few days to help urine drain. Your doctor might do an X-ray or ultrasound a few weeks later to see whether any parts of the stone are left. She might also send the stone fragments to a lab to find out what they're made of.


Question: What are the risks from a percutaneous nephrolithotomy or percutaneous nephrolithotripsy for kidney stones?

Answer: Risks from this surgery include: Infection Bleeding Damage to the bladder, bowel, ureter, kidney, or liver Open surgery is rarely done for kidney stones anymore.


Question: What are side effects of shock wave lithotripsy for kidney stones?

Answer: The procedure can cause side effects such as cramps or blood in your urine. More serious problems are less likely, but can include: Bleeding around the kidney Infection Damage to the kidney Stone that blocks the flow of urine This procedure treats stones in the kidneys and ureters.


Question: Is hyperhidrosis serious?

Answer: Focal hyperhidrosis isn't medically serious. Other forms of excessive sweating, though, can signal underlying medical problems. Sweating all over the body at once is called generalized hyperhidrosis. It's frequently caused by diseases affecting the whole body. Infections, hormone problems, cancer, or nerve problems can be responsible. It often occurs during sleep, unlike focal hyperhidrosis, which occurs only when awake. Anyone with all-over body sweating should see a doctor as soon as possible.


Question: Can hyperhidrosis treatment help?

Answer: Despite the serious negative impact hyperhidrosis has on the lives of those who suffer from it, most never seek treatment. Generally, people with focal hyperhidrosis have been living with their problem since they were young. After learning to live with excessive sweating, they often don't recognize their problem is treatable. That's too bad, because effective hyperhidrosis treatments are available. Although no treatment is perfect, hyperhidrosis medications and procedures can help many people with the condition.


Question: How does hyperhidrosis begin?

Answer: Sweating is worst in the palms, soles, or underarms. When excessive sweating is limited to these areas, it's called focal hyperhidrosis. Most people with focal hyperhidrosis are otherwise completely healthy. Studies suggest that they are no more nervous or easily upset than people who sweat normally.


Question: Which doctors can help with hyperhidrosis?

Answer: Dermatologists are generally the best doctors for treating excessive sweating that's not controlled by OTC products. They are usually more familiar with hyperhidrosis treatment, especially when sweating is severe. Depending on your insurance, you may need a referral to a dermatologist from your regular doctor.


Question: What does the treatment for arthritis include?

Answer: Treatment depends on the severity of the pain and disability. Treatment includes: Anti-inflammatory or analgesic painkillers Splints for the fingers or wrist Heat Physical therapy If these treatments do not provide relief, surgery may be recommended.


Question: What are the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome?

Answer: This is one of the most common nerve disorders of the hand. It causes pain in the: Palm and some fingers of the hand Wrist Forearm Often the pain is worse at night than during the day. Carpal tunnel syndrome can also cause: Weakness Tingling Numbness You may especially feel it in your thumb, index finger, and middle finger. This can make it hard to grip objects.


Question: What are the symptoms of fractures related to hand pain?

Answer: Besides pain, after a fracture you may have: Stiffness Swelling Loss of movement If you have fractured a finger, for example, you may not be able to move it fully. Your injured finger could be swollen and in some cases slightly shorter than usual. There are several types of fractures: Simple (broken bone is aligned and stable) Complex (break may cause bone to shift or become displaced, making treatment more difficult) Comminuted (bones broken in more than one place) Compound (broken bone breaks through skin) Fracture treatment depends on the type of the break.


Question: What is the treatment for de Quervain's tendinitis?

Answer: Pain relief treatments include: A splint to rest the thumb and wrist Anti-inflammatory medications Cortisone shots Surgery may be an option if symptoms remain severe after you have tried other treatments.


Question: How does carpal tunnel syndrome happen?

Answer: The median nerve controls sensation and muscle impulses in the thumb and most of the fingers (except for the pinkie finger and the half of the ring finger that's closest to the pinkie finger). The median nerve passes through the carpal tunnel. The carpal tunnel is a structure made up of bones and connective tissues that is located at the base of the hand. It is in this narrow space that the median nerve is pinched by inflamed or irritated tendons or other swelling.


Question: How can you get de Quervain's tendinitis?

Answer: New mothers can get it from holding their baby in an awkward position. Wrist fractures can also make you more likely to get de Quervain's.


Question: How is carpal tunnel syndrome treated?

Answer: Common treatments include: Resting the hand and wrist Anti-inflammatory or analgesic painkillers Wrist splints Steroid shots Physical therapy Your doctor may suggest surgery if your symptoms last for 6 months or more.


Question: What are the different types of fractures?

Answer: There are several types of fractures: Simple (broken bone is aligned and stable) Complex (break may cause bone to shift or become displaced, making treatment more difficult) Comminuted (bones broken in more than one place) Compound (broken bone breaks through skin) Fracture treatment depends on the type of the break.


Question: What foods should my child with type 1 diabetes avoid?

Answer: Foods To Avoid There are no specific foods that are off-limits to your child, but there are things to consider when meal planning and grocery shopping. People with diabetes have a higher risk of developing heart disease. Because of that, it's good to steer your child away from fatty foods that contain cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans fat. Avoid foods high in salt. Eating too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure.


Question: Can my child with type 1 diabetes have sweets?

Answer: Limit sugary foods like candy, cookies, frosting, or soda that raise blood sugar quickly. They're best given at a meal and with insulin. You'll adjust insulin based on carb counting. Your child doesn't have to miss out on treats for special occasions like birthdays or Halloween. You'll just have to account for those carbs over the course of the day.


Question: How should I keep track of my child's type 1 diabetes?

Answer: Keep Track Keep a record of your child's carb intake, insulin doses, and blood sugar readings. These numbers can help you and your doctor see if his meal plan is working.


Question: How can I make sure my child with type 1 diabetes gets the right amount of carbs?

Answer: Constant Carbohydrate Plan Another option is to have your child eat a set amount of carbohydrates at every meal and snack. He'll need to eat at the same times every day, and also take insulin at set times. You don't have to eat the same foods everyday. You just need to stick to the total carbs set for each meal and snack. Keeping to a schedule works well for many kids.


Question: What if my child with type 1 diabetes can't follow their meal plan?

Answer: Highs and Lows If your child eats more than expected or at a different time than you've planned, he may get high blood sugar, or hyperglycemia. If this happens, you may need to make some adjustments. Talk to your diabetes team about adjusting his meal plan or his doses of insulin or other medication.


Question: What should my child with type 1 diabetes eat?

Answer: Good Nutrition Like all children, kids with type 1 diabetes need nutrient-rich foods that help them grow and keep them at a healthy weight. Over the course of a day, your child should get about 10%-20% of his calories from protein, 25%-30% calories from healthy fats, and about 50%-60% from carbohydrates.


Question: What is an exchange meal plan for type 1 diabetes?

Answer: Exchange Meal Plan With an âexchange plan,â your child's menu will include the amount he can eat from six different food groups: starch, fruit, milk, fat, vegetable, and meat. One food can be exchanged for another with the same amount of calories, protein, carbs, and fats. In children with type 1, dietitians often will focus on carb exchanges since this affects blood sugars the most. You can find exchange lists online.


Question: How much carbs should my child with type 1 diabetes eat?

Answer: The amount of carbs your child needs depends on his weight, age, size, exercise level, and any medicines he's taking. Your doctor or dietitian can help you figure out the number of grams or serving sizes your child should have each day.


Question: What snacks can I give my child with type 1 diabetes?

Answer: Snacks to Keep on Hand â Freeâ snacks like cucumbers and celery or sugar-free gelatin contain very few carbs, so they won't have much effect on your child's blood sugar. You can also have âcontrolled-carb snacksâ handy to for between meals. Some good kid-friendly choices: low-fat string cheese, a hard-boiled egg, or a small serving of nuts with a sugar-free drink.


Question: How can I keep track of the carbs my child with type 1 diabetes eats?

Answer: Carb Counting Many families keep their child's blood sugar levels steady by counting the number of carbohydrates eaten at every meal or snack, then adjusting insulin doses for it. On packaged foods, the number of total carbs per serving is listed on the label. You can subtract the grams of dietary fiber since this isn't digested. Then multiply the total by how many servings of that food your child eats. If you're cooking at home or eating out, you can look up carb counts and portion sizes of foods online.


Question: What prescription treatments are available for hot flashes?

Answer: Prescription treatments include: Low-dose depression drugs like fluoxetine ( Prozac, Rapiflux), paroxetine ( Paxil, Pexeva), or venlafaxine ( Effexor) Clonidine, a blood pressure medication Gabapentin, an anti-seizure drug Brisdelle, a paroxetine formula specifically for hot flashes Duavee, a conjugated estrogens/bazedoxifene formula designed to treat hot flashes B complex vitamins, vitamin E, and ibuprofen may help, too.


Question: How can I treat hot flashes without a prescription?

Answer: Prescription treatments include: Low-dose depression drugs like fluoxetine ( Prozac, Rapiflux), paroxetine ( Paxil, Pexeva), or venlafaxine ( Effexor) Clonidine, a blood pressure medication Gabapentin, an anti-seizure drug Brisdelle, a paroxetine formula specifically for hot flashes Duavee, a conjugated estrogens/bazedoxifene formula designed to treat hot flashes B complex vitamins, vitamin E, and ibuprofen may help, too.


Question: How long does recovery from trigger finger take?

Answer: The time it takes to get better depends on how bad your condition is. The choice of treatment also affects recovery. For example, you may need to wear a splint for 6 weeks. But most patients with trigger finger recover within a few weeks by resting the finger and using anti-inflammatory drugs.


Question: Why does trigger finger happen?

Answer: A tendon usually glides easily through the tissue that covers it (called a sheath) thanks to the synovium, a membrane that surrounds joints and keeps them lubricated. Sometimes a tendon gets inflamed and swollen. Long-term irritation of the tendon sheath can lead to scarring and thickening that affect the tendon's motion. When this happens, bending your finger or thumb pulls the inflamed tendon through a narrowed sheath and makes it snap or pop.


Question: What causes trigger finger?

Answer: Most of the time, it comes from a repeated movement or forceful use of your finger or thumb. It can also happen when tendons -- tough bands of tissue that connect muscles and bones in your finger or thumb -- get inflamed.


Question: How is dysthymia diagnosed?

Answer: A mental health specialist generally makes the diagnosis based on the person's symptoms. In the case of dysthymia, these symptoms will have lasted for a longer period of time and be less severe than in patients with major depression. With dysthymia, your doctor will want to make sure that the symptoms are not a result of a physical condition, such as hypothyroidism. If you are depressed and have had depressive symptoms for more than two weeks, see your doctor or a psychiatrist. Your provider will perform a thorough medical evaluation, paying particular attention to your personal and family psychiatric history. There is no blood, X-ray or other laboratory test that can be used to diagnose dysthymia.


Question: What are the signs and symptoms of dysthymia?

Answer: Dysthymia, sometimes referred to as mild, chronic depression, is less severe and has fewer symptoms than major depression. With dysthymia, the depression symptoms can linger for a long period of time, often two years or longer.


Question: Can dysthymia worsen?

Answer: It's not uncommon for a person with dysthymia to also experience an episode ofmajor depression at the same time. This is called double depression. That's why it's so important to seek an early and accurate medical diagnosis. Your doctor can then recommend the most effective treatment to help you feel yourself again.


Question: What else can I do to feel better if I have dysthymia?

Answer: Getting an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment is a major step in feeling better with chronic depression. In addition, ask your doctor about the benefits of healthy lifestyle habits such as eating a well-balanced diet, getting regular exercise, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and being with close friends and family members for strong social support. These positive habits are also important in improving mood and well-being.


Question: How can you have delusions if you have schizophrenia?

Answer: These are beliefs that seem strange to most people and are easy to prove wrong. The person affected might think someone is trying to control their brain through TVs or that the FBI is out to get them. They might believe they're someone else, like a famous actor or the president, or that they have superpowers.


Question: What is it like to have severe schizophrenia?

Answer: When the disease is in full swing and symptoms are severe, the person with schizophrenia can't tell when certain ideas and perceptions they have are real or not. This happens less often as they get older.


Question: What are cognitive symptoms in schizophrenia?

Answer: These symptoms reflect how well the person's brain learns, stores, and uses information. Someone with schizophrenia might have a hard time with their working memory. For example, they may not be able to keep track of different kinds of facts at the same time, like a phone number plus instructions. Along with having trouble paying attention, it can be hard for them to organize their thoughts and make decisions.


Question: Who is likely to get affected by schizophrenia?

Answer: They usually start between ages 16 and 30. Men often get them earlier than women.


Question: How can you have trouble concentrating if you have schizophrenia?

Answer: For example, someone might lose track of what's going on in a TV show as they're watching.


Question: How  does schizophrenia affect movement?

Answer: Some people with schizophrenia can seem jumpy. Sometimes they'll make the same movements over and over again. But sometimes they might be perfectly still for hours at a stretch, which experts call being catatonic. Contrary to popular belief, people with the disease usually aren't violent.


Question: Can an oral surgeon help with my impacted teeth?

Answer: Impacted teeth: This mostly happens with wisdom teeth. But it can happen in other places in your mouth, too. When the teeth come through the gums for the first time, it might be crowded, so they either don't come out at all or don't come out completely. This can cause sore gums and infections. Your dentist or surgeon might recommend you get your wisdom teeth pulled, even before they present any problems.


Question: How can an oral surgeon help me with a missing tooth?

Answer: Implants: You can replace a missing tooth with a dental implant. The surgeon imbeds a titanium implant into your jaw, then your dentist attaches a crown.


Question: What conditions can oral surgeons help treat?

Answer: Cancer treatment: Oral surgeons also treat cancers, not just of the mouth, but also of the head and neck, like of the salivary glands, sinuses, throat, larynx, and lips. Oral surgeons can also help with: Nerve repair Cleft lips and cleft palate surgery Removal of lesions on the face or inside the mouth If you have problems with your teeth or gums, talk with your dentist.


Question: Can an oral surgeon help with issues with my jaw joint?

Answer: Jaw-joint issues: The temporomandibular joint ( TMJ) connects your jaw to your skull. It's that little âhingeâ right in front of the ears. It can cause problems like pain in your jaw, jaw-popping, stiffness, and headaches. Oral devices, pain medication, and ice packs can help. But people with recurring problems may need oral surgery.


Question: Can an oral surgeon help correct issues with breathing and sleep?

Answer: Sleep and breathing issues: This covers things like snoring and sleep apnea, a condition that causes you to stop breathing for brief periods during sleep. A doctor with special training may recommend a CPAP machine or other appliance that can open your airway. He may also want you to have surgery, and you'd go to an oral surgeon. The type of surgery you'd have would depend on what's blocking your breathing.


Question: If I have problems with my teeth, gums, or jaws, why should I talk to my dentist first?

Answer: If you have problems with your teeth, gums, or jaws, go see your dentist, even if the pain is in the area around your mouth or face. If it's an emergency and a dentist is not available, head to an urgent care clinic rather than the ER. It's best, though, to try to avoid both if possible. They will only administer medication for the symptoms and tell you to see a dentist. They may also charge 3 to 4 times what it may cost to solve the problem. Your dentist can handle most oral problems. If he thinks you need an oral surgeon, he'll recommend one.


Question: What are oral and maxillofacial surgeons, and what kind of training do they get?

Answer: If your dentist recommends maxillofacial surgery, he's talking about a specialty of dentistry that relates to your face and jaws. It's a surgery that treats disease and injuries of the areas around your mouth. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons must complete extra training and education beyond what is normal for a dentist. Some get a medical degree (an MD) along with their oral surgery diplomas. They put in at least 4 years of training in a hospital-based surgical program alongside medical residents in many different specialties, including anesthesia. That includes various types of IV sedation, including "twilight sleep" and general anesthesia, where you're unconscious and can't feel any pain.


Question: Can cold air trigger allergies?

Answer: Many people with allergic asthma find that cold air is a problem, especially when they exercise outside. It can trigger a coughing fit.


Question: Can heat trigger allergies?

Answer: Air pollution is worst on hot summer days. Ozone and smog can be a serious trigger for people with allergic asthma.


Question: How can I make my home more allergy-proof?

Answer: Use air conditioning to filter out mold and pollen. Use a dehumidifier to ward off mold growth and dust mites.


Question: What are the common weather triggers for allergies?

Answer: Wind blows pollen into the air, causing hay fever. If you have pollen allergies, shut the windows and stay indoors on windy days. Rainy or humid days. Moisture makes mold grow, both indoors and out. Dust mites also thrive in humid air. But if you're allergic to pollen, humid or damp days are good. The moisture weighs down the pollen, keeping it on the ground. Cold air. Many people with allergic asthma find that cold air is a problem, especially when they exercise outside. It can trigger a coughing fit. Heat. Air pollution is worst on hot summer days.


Question: Can rainy or humid days trigger allergies?

Answer: Moisture makes mold grow, both indoors and out. Dust mites also thrive in humid air. But if you're allergic to pollen, humid or damp days are good. The moisture weighs down the pollen, keeping it on the ground.


Question: How can season change affect allergies?

Answer: In cooler states, plants start to release pollens in February or March. Tree pollens are also a common spring allergy cause. Summer. Early in summer, grass pollen can trigger reactions. Later in the summer, ragweed and other weeds can become a problem. Mold can hit its peak in July in the warmer states. Fall. Ragweed season usually ends with the first frost in October. In colder states, mold tends to be worst in the fall. Winter. Indoor allergens -- like pet dander and dust mites -- can become more of a problem in winter.


Question: What neurotransmitters play a role in bipolar disorder?

Answer: Disruption of circuits that communicate using dopamine in other brain areas appears connected to psychosis and schizophrenia, a severe mental disorder characterized by distortions in reality and illogical thought patterns and behaviors. The brain chemical serotonin is connected to many body functions such as sleep, wakefulness, eating, sexual activity, impulsivity, learning, and memory. Researchers believe that abnormal functioning of brain circuits that involve serotonin as a chemical messenger contribute to mood disorders (depression and bipolar disorder).


Question: Can lack of sleep cause bipolar disorder?

Answer: Some findings show that people with bipolar disorder have a genetic predisposition to sleep-wake cycle problems that may trigger symptoms of depression and mania. The problem for those with bipolar disorder, however, is that sleep loss may lead to a mood episode such as mania (elation) in some patients. Worrying about losing sleep can increase anxiety, thus worsening the bipolar mood disorder altogether. Once a sleep-deprived person with bipolar disorder goes into the manic state, the need for sleep decreases even more.


Question: How does progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) work?

Answer: Here is how it works; While inhaling, contract one muscle group (for example your upper thighs) for 5 seconds to 10 seconds, then exhale and suddenly release the tension in that muscle group. Give yourself 10 seconds to 20 seconds to relax, and then move on to the next muscle group (for example your buttocks). While releasing the tension, try to focus on the changes you feel when the muscle group is relaxed. Imagery may be helpful in conjunction with the release of tension, such as imagining that stressful feelings are flowing out of your body as you relax each muscle group. Gradually work your way up the body contracting and relaxing muscle groups.


Question: Who first came up with progressive muscle relaxation (PMR)?

Answer: The technique of progressive muscle relaxation was described by Edmund Jacobson in the 1930s and is based upon his premise that mental calmness is a natural result of physical relaxation. Progressive muscle relaxation can be learned by nearly anyone and requires only 10 minutes to 20 minutes per day to practice.


Question: What is progressive muscle relaxation (PMR) for stress and insomnia?

Answer: Progressive muscle relaxation is based upon the simple practice of tensing, or tightening, one muscle group at a time followed by a relaxation phase with release of the tension. Doctors have used progressive muscle relaxation in combination with standard treatments for symptom relief in a number of conditions, including headaches, cancer pain, high blood pressure, and digestive disturbances.


Question: What is bursitis?

Answer: Bursitis is the inflammation or irritation of the bursa. The bursa is a sac filled with lubricating fluid, located between tissues such as bone, muscle, tendons, and skin, that decreases rubbing, friction, and irritation.


Question: How can my doctor help with bursitis?

Answer: Bursitis can be treated in a number of ways, including: Avoiding activities that aggravate the problem Resting the injured area Icing the area the day of the injury Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines If the condition does not improve in a week, see your doctor. Your doctor can also prescribe drugs to reduce the inflammation. Corticosteroids, also known simply as "steroids," are often used because they work quickly to decrease the inflammation and pain. Steroids can be injected directly at the site of injury. Injections are often, but not always, effective and can be repeated . However, multiple injections in a several month period are usually avoided due to potential side effects from the injections and the possibility of masking problems that need to be treated differently. Physical therapy is another treatment option that is often used. This includes range-of-motion exercises and splinting (thumb, forearm, or bands).


Question: When should I consult my doctor about bursitis?

Answer: Consult your doctor if you have: Fever (over 102 Fahrenheit) -- infection is a possibility Swelling, redness, and warmth General illness or multiple sites of pain Inability to move the affected area These could be signs of another problem that needs more immediate attention.


Question: What are the symptoms of bursitis?

Answer: Elbow Shoulder Hip Knee Achilles tendon The most common symptom of bursitis is pain. The pain may build up gradually or be sudden and severe, especially if calcium deposits are present. Severe loss of motion in the shoulder -- called "adhesive capsulitis" or frozen shoulder -- can also result from the immobility and pain associated with shoulder bursitis.


Question: Who usually gets bursitis?

Answer: Bursitis is more common in adults, especially in those over 40 years of age.


Question: Do I need surgery to treat bursitis?

Answer: Surgery, although rarely needed, may be an option when bursitis does not respond to the other treatment options.


Question: How is bursitis treated?

Answer: Bursitis can be treated in a number of ways, including: Avoiding activities that aggravate the problem Resting the injured area Icing the area the day of the injury Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines If the condition does not improve in a week, see your doctor.


Question: How can I prevent bursitis?

Answer: The pain may build up gradually or be sudden and severe, especially if calcium deposits are present. Severe loss of motion in the shoulder -- called "adhesive capsulitis" or frozen shoulder -- can also result from the immobility and pain associated with shoulder bursitis. If you are planning to start exercising, you will be less likely to get bursitis if you gradually build up force and repetitions.


Question: What causes bursitis?

Answer: Bursitis is most often caused by repetitive, minor impact on the area, or from a sudden, more serious injury. Age also plays a role. As tendons age they are able to tolerate stress less, are less elastic, and are easier to tear. var s_context; s_context= s_context || {}; s_context['wb.modimp'] = 'vidfloat'; if(webmd.useragent && webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop'){ webmd.ads2.disable Initial Load(); webmd.ads2.disable Ads Init = true; $(function() { webmd.p.pim.increment(); $('.responsive-video-container').insert After('.module-social-share-container'); require(['video2/1/responsive-player/video-loader'], function(video Loader) { video Loader.init({ autoplay: webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop' && ! !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Overuse or injury to the joint at work or play can also increase a person's risk of bursitis. Examples of high-risk activities include gardening, raking, carpentry, shoveling, painting, scrubbing, tennis, golf, skiing, throwing, and pitching. Incorrect posture at work or home and poor stretching or conditioning before exercise can also lead to bursitis. An abnormal or poorly placed bone or joint (such as length differences in your legs or arthritis in a joint) can put added stress on a bursa sac, causing bursitis. Stress or inflammation from other conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis, thyroid disorders, or unusual medication reactions may also increase a person's risk. In addition, an infection can occasionally lead to inflammation of a bursa.


Question: Are your lungs congested because of pneumonia?

Answer: Sometimes it starts out as the flu. You may feel short of breath or get other symptoms like: Coughing up yellow-green or bloody phlegm Fever Chills Localized chest pain when you breathe in See your doctor if any of those happen to you or you think you might have pneumonia.


Question: Are your lungs congested because of allergies?

Answer: Anything you're allergic to can make it harder to breathe, and result in a congested chest, watery eyes, and wheezing. Pollen, dust, and pet dander (tiny flecks of skin shed by animals) are some common culprits. There are lots of ways to get relief. Drugs like antihistamines and decongestants may help. So may regular allergy shots.


Question: Are your lungs congested because of asthma?

Answer: Your symptoms may include: Chest pain Shortness of breath Hoarseness Coughing up blood Lung infections like bronchitis and pneumonia If you have it, your swollen airways are sensitive to things you're exposed to every day, like allergy triggers such as pollen, air pollutants, or chemicals in your workplace. The disease tends to run in families. With asthma, you may notice a wheezing sound when you breathe. Sometimes you only have it after you exercise or when you have a cold. Your chest may also feel tight. And you might have a cough at night or get short of breath. A lot of medicines can help, including inhalers that you breathe in to give you quick relief.


Question: Are your lungs congested because of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Answer: It's sometimes called emphysema or chronic bronchitis, and it can make you short of breath. Smoking causes this disease most of the time. When you have COPD, the airways in your lungs get inflamed and thicken, which means less oxygen comes in and less carbon dioxide goes out. Over time, the shortness of breath gets worse. Your doctor can give you medication to help you manage the symptoms. If the problems get worse, you may need to use an oxygen tank to help with your breathing trouble.


Question: Are your lungs congested because of a heart attack?

Answer: Get medical help right away if you also have any of these: Pressure or squeezing in the center of your chest Pain in your arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach Feeling short of breath Sweating, nausea, light-headedness It's a serious condition that starts when your heart doesn't pump as strongly as it should.


Question: Can stress cause shaky hands?

Answer: Stress: From financial and job worries to relationship problems and health concerns, stress worsens tremors. Intense anger, extreme hunger, or sleep deprivation can all make your hands shake. This is known as physiologic tremor.


Question: Does multiple sclerosis cause tremors?

Answer: This disease, which targets your immune system, brain, nerves, and spinal cord, can also make your hands shake. You're most likely to have a tremor in your hand or foot. MS can cause a variety of tremors. The most common, like Essential Tremor, happens when you're already moving.


Question: How can taking medication or drugs cause tremors?

Answer: Sometimes a tremor is your body's response to something: Drugs : The most common culprits are medications that block a brain chemical called dopamine. It moves information from one part of your brain to another. These drugs are used to keep your mood even. The tremors will go away when you stop taking the drugs.


Question: What are the causes of essential tremor?

Answer: Toxins in the environment cause some cases. But more research is needed to better understand the connections. Age is another risk factor. Although Essential Tremor can happen at any age, it's more likely in people over 40. Your odds go up as you get older.


Question: Does the existence of tremors mean I have Parkinson's disease?

Answer: Tremor is an early sign of Parkinson's disease, which affects 10 million people worldwide. Not everyone who has this disease gets shaky, but most people in the early stages will have slight movement in a hand, foot, or even a single finger Most of the time, the tremor affects only one side of your body.


Question: What is the reason why my hands are shaking?

Answer: Essential Tremor is the most common tremor disorder. It usually starts in your hands, but it can move to your arms, head, voice, or other body parts. ET is different because it affects your hands when they're already moving. Most other forms of tremor take place when you're still. It could result from a gene (your doctor may call this a mutation). That means if one of your parents has a tremor, you're more likely to get one, too.


Question: Are tremors an early sign for any diseases?

Answer: Tremor is an early sign of Parkinson's disease, which affects 10 million people worldwide. Not everyone who has this disease gets shaky, but most people in the early stages will have slight movement in a hand, foot, or even a single finger Most of the time, the tremor affects only one side of your body.


Question: How can low blood sugar cause tremors?

Answer: It triggers your body's natural stress response and makes you shaky.


Question: Can a B12 deficiency cause shaky hands?

Answer: B12 deficiency: Without it, your nervous system won't work like it should. You can find it in meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and milk products. If you're getting so little that your hands shake, your doctor will give you a shot.


Question: Can you get a tremor from alcohol withdrawal?

Answer: Tremor is one of the first signs. If you weren't too hooked, the shakes may last just a few days. If you drank a lot, or for a long time, they can go on for a year or even longer.


Question: How are stitches (sutures) removed?

Answer: Stitches typically need to remain in place for several days to a couple of weeks, depending on the severity of the cut and location. Your doctor will tell you when to come back to have them taken out. Removing stitches is a much faster process than putting them in. The doctor simply clips each thread near the knot and pulls them out. You may feel a slight tugging sensation, but the removal of stitches shouldn't hurt at all. You won't even need an anesthetic. Although removing stitches is not a difficult process, you shouldn't try to remove them yourself.


Question: What are other options for stitches (sutures)?

Answer: Stitches aren't the only option doctors have to close cuts and incisions. Cuts sometimes can be held together with butterfly tape or adhesive strips, which you may be able to do yourself at home for more minor cuts. There are even special staples or tissue glue, but those tend to work best with clean, straight incisions, such as in surgical procedures. There are different criteria and care instructions for each type of closure. Your health care provider can help decide which is best for you and tell you how to care for your injury as it heals.


Question: What information should I report if an animal has rabies?

Answer: Notify the local health department or animal control about the animal's possible whereabouts. If the animal is a pet, get owner's contact information.


Question: What is retinis pigmentosa?

Answer: Retinitis pigmentosa ( RP) is a term for a group of eye diseases that can lead to loss of sight. What they have in common is a coloring your doctor sees when he looks at your retina -- a bundle of tissue at the back of your eye. When you have RP, cells in the retina called photoreceptors don't work the way they're supposed to, and over time, you lose your sight. It's a rare disorder that's passed from parent to child. Only 1 out of every 4,000 people get it. About half of all people with RP have a family member who also has it.


Question: What are the differences between rods and cones?

Answer: The retina has two types of cells that gather light: rods and cones. The rods are around the outer ring of the retina and are active in dim light. Most forms of retinitis pigmentosa affect the rods first. Your night vision and your ability to see to the side -- peripheral vision -- go away. Cones are mostly in the center of your retina. They help you see color and fine detail. When RP affects them, you slowly lose your central vision and your ability to see color.


Question: What are the treatment options for retinitis pigmentosa?

Answer: A few options can slow your vision loss and may even restore some sight: Acetazolamide: In the later stages, the tiny area at the center of your retina can swell. This is called macular edema, and it, too, can reduce your vision. This medication can ease swelling and improve your vision. Vitamin A palmitate: High doses of this compound may slow retinitis pigmentosa a little each year. But you have to be careful, because too much can be toxic. Work closely with your doctor and follow her recommendations. Sunglasses: These make your eyes less sensitive to light and protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet rays that may speed vision loss. Retinal implant: If you have late-stage RP, you may be a candidate a retinal implant that could provide partial sight. Argus II is the implant available in the US. It's implanted into a single eye and paired with glasses equipped with a camera. Images are converted to electrical pulses that are sent to the retina. Many were able to locate lights and windows. Some were able to determine where other people were located in a room and about half of the subjects were able to read letter that were about 9 inches high. Other treatments under review include: Replacement of damaged cells or tissues with healthy ones Gene therapy to put healthy genes into the retina Devices and tools can help you make the most of your vision, and rehab services can help you stay independent.


Question: How does an eye doctor diagnose retinitis pigmentosa?

Answer: He'll look into your eyes and do some special tests: Ophthalmoscope: The doctor will put drops into your eyes to make your pupil wider to get a better look at your retina. He will use a handheld tool to look into the back of your eye. If you have RP, there will be specific kinds of dark spots on your retina. Visual field test: You'll look through a tabletop machine at a point in the center of your vision. While staring at that point, objects or lights will appear to the side. You'll press a button when you see them, and the machine will create a map of how far to the side you can see. Electroretinogram: The eye doctor will put a film of gold foil or a special contact lens on your eye. Then he will measure how your retina responds to flashes of light. Genetic test: You'll submit a DNA sample to find out which form of RP you have. If you or anyone in your family is diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, all family members should go to the eye doctor for screening.


Question: What causes retinitis pigmentosa?

Answer: More than 60 different genes can cause the different types of retinitis pigmentosa. Parents can pass the problem genes on to their children in three different ways: Autosomal recessive RP: Each parent has one problem copy and one normal copy of the gene that's responsible, but they don't have any symptoms. A child that inherits two problem copies of the gene (one from each parent) will develop this type of retinitis pigmentosa. Since two copies of the problem gene are needed, each child in the family has a 25% chance of being affected. Autosomal dominant RP: This type of retinitis pigmentosa requires only one copy of the problem gene to develop. A parent with that gene has a 50% chance of passing it to each child. X-linked RP: A mother who carries the problem gene can pass it down to her children. Each one of them has a 50% chance of getting it. Most women who carry the gene won't have any symptoms. But about 1 out of every 5 will have mild symptoms. Most men who get it will have more severe cases. Fathers who have the gene can't pass it to their children.


Question: What are the two parts of a pacemaker?

Answer: The pacemaker has two parts: the leads and a pulse generator. The pulse generator houses the battery and a tiny computer, and resides just under the skin of the chest. The leads are wires that are threaded through the veins into the heart and implanted into the heart muscle. They send impulses from the pulse generator to the heart muscle, as well as sense the heart's electrical activity.


Question: When should you call your doctor after you have a pacemaker implanted?

Answer: Look at your wound every day to make sure it is healing. Call your doctor if you notice: Increased drainage, bleeding, or oozing from the insertion site Increased opening of the incision Redness around the site Warmth along the site Increased body temperature (fever or chills) Your pacemaker settings will be checked before you leave the hospital.


Question: What conditions look like shingles?

Answer: Your doctor might check to see if you have: Contact dermatitis: A skin reaction caused by an allergy to latex, metals, chemicals, or drugs Candida infection: It comes from a type of yeast called Candida Dermatitis herpetiformis: A rash that some people with celiac disease can get Impetigo: A skin infection caused by bacteria Insect bites: Sometimes, they can look like shingles Folliculitis: The tiny holes that hairs grow out of can get inflamed Scabies: A skin condition caused by a small bug called a mite One way to tell shingles from these conditions is by the other symptoms that come with it.


Question: What does a shingles rash look like?

Answer: A shingles rash: Appears on one side of your body and/or face Stings, burns, and/or itches Starts as red bumps that form into blisters Other conditions also cause rashes that look like shingles.


Question: How can I treat allergy symptoms?

Answer: For mild allergy symptoms, such as hay fever or hives, give an over-the-counter ( OTC) antihistamine. For stuffy nose, give an OTC decongestant. For itchy, watery eyes, use OTC allergy eye drops. For itchy allergic rash, apply cold compresses and an OTC hydrocortisone cream.


Question: Where is the sentinel node located in breast cancer?

Answer: In breast cancer, the sentinel node is usually located in the axillary nodes, under the arm. In a small percentage of cases, the sentinel node is found somewhere else in the lymphatic system of the breast. If the sentinel node is positive, there may be other positive lymph nodes upstream. If it is negative, it is highly likely that all of the upstream nodes are negative.


Question: What does a sentinel node biopsy do for breast cancer?

Answer: In breast cancer, a sentinel node biopsy pinpoints the first few lymph nodes into which a tumor drains (called the "sentinel" node). This helps doctors remove only those nodes of the lymphatic system most likely to contain cancer cells. The sentinel nodes are the first place that cancer is likely to spread.


Question: How is a sentinel node biopsy done?

Answer: To locate the sentinel nodes, a labeling substance, either a radioactive tracer, blue dye, or both, is injected into the area around the tumor before a mastectomy or lumpectomy is performed. The tracer travels the same path to the lymph nodes that the cancer cells would take, making it possible for the surgeon to determine the one or two nodes most likely to test positive for cancer by either visualizing the color or using a handheld Geiger counter.


Question: How can sickle cell disease affect your immune system?

Answer: Sickle cells can damage your spleen, the organ that helps fight germs as part of your immune system. That can make you more likely to get pneumonia and other infections.


Question: What is sickle cell crisis?

Answer: It happens when you don't have enough red blood cells to move oxygen throughout your body.


Question: Which vaccines should I get if I have sickle cell disease?

Answer: Vaccines can protect you and your child against germs. Everyone with sickle cell disease should get these vaccines: Pneumococcus: both the PCV13 and PPSV 23 vaccines Flu vaccine every year Meningococcus Your doctor will also advise you about other vaccines that may be right for you or your child, including: Hepatitis A and B Measles, mumps, and rubella Varicella (chickenpox) Rotavirus Haemophilus influenzae Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis Poliovirus When sickle cells get stuck in the larger arteries that feed the brain, they can block blood flow and cause a stroke.


Question: How can hydroxyurea help treat sickle cell disease?

Answer: A medicine called hydroxyurea ( Droxia, Hydrea, Sikos) prevents abnormal red blood cells from forming. This cuts down on episodes of sickle cell crises. Hydroxyurea can cause serious side effects, like a plunge in the number of white blood cells that help your body fight infections. So your doctor will watch you closely while you're on it. You shouldn't take hydroxyurea if you're pregnant.


Question: How can sickle cell disease lead to stroke?

Answer: Everyone with sickle cell disease should get these vaccines: Pneumococcus: both the PCV13 and PPSV 23 vaccines Flu vaccine every year Meningococcus Your doctor will also advise you about other vaccines that may be right for you or your child, including: Hepatitis A and B Measles, mumps, and rubella Varicella (chickenpox) Rotavirus Haemophilus influenzae Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis Poliovirus When sickle cells get stuck in the larger arteries that feed the brain, they can block blood flow and cause a stroke. You can preventfrequent transfusions can lower the odds of another stroke by about 90% If you think you're having a stroke, call 911 right away.


Question: Which medicines can help treat long-term pain from sickle cell disease?

Answer: If you have long-term pain, your doctor might prescribe one of these medicines: Amitriptyline Duloxetine ( Cymbalta) Gabapentin ( Horizant, Gralise, Neurontin) Opioid pain medicine It's a serious condition that can land you in the hospital.


Question: What is the best way to prevent colds?

Answer: It's all due to the way colds spread.


Question: How are colds passed?

Answer: The main way colds get passed around is when someone who's sick coughs or sneezes. Little droplets with germs land on places like doorknobs, telephones, and computer keyboards. Or the sick person coughs or sneezes into their hands and then touches those objects. Then you come along, happy and healthy, and touch that spot. Next, without even realizing it, you might touch your nose and mouth. Voila! In an instant you're infected.


Question: How should I wash my hands for cold prevention?

Answer: Here's the drill: First, wet your hands with water. Then add soap. Rub them together vigorously for 20 seconds. Make sure to rub the wrists, between the fingers, and under the fingernails. When you have time, use a nailbrush, as germs often hide under nails. Rinse your hands thoroughly and dry with a clean paper towel or air dryer. If you are in a public restroom, shut the faucet off with a paper towel. Try to push the door open with your shoulder, or use another paper towel to turn the knob.


Question: Does hand sanitizer prevent colds?

Answer: It should be at least 60% alcohol. Rub the entire surface of your hands, fingers, and wrist with the sanitizer until dry. You can use this throughout the day if you're not near a bathroom. Follow up with a thorough hand scrub when you're near a sink to prevent buildup of the sanitizer.


Question: Why does hand washing prevent colds?

Answer: Some viruses -- tiny living things that cause colds -- can live on surfaces for hours. Regular hand washing is your best strategy to keep them from getting inside your body. And of course, if you're the one who's sick, washing up will keep you from spreading your germs. There's some evidence behind this. A program called Operation Stop Cough was started at a military recruit training command center in Illinois. As part of the program, recruits were told to wash their hands at least five times a day. After 2 years, the hand-washing team reported 45% fewer cases of respiratory illness, compared with sickness rates among recruits during the year before the program started.


Question: What are drugs used to prevent tooth decay in dentistry?

Answer: Fluoride is a drug used to prevent tooth decay. It is available on a nonprescription basis in many toothpastes. It is absorbed by teeth and helps strengthen teeth to resist acid and block the cavity-forming action of bacteria.


Question: What drugs are used to treat periodontal disease?

Answer: The doxycycline periodontal system (marketed as Atridox) contains the antibiotic doxycycline and is used to help treat periodontal disease. Doxycycline works by preventing the growth of bacteria. Doxycycline periodontal system is placed by your dentist into deep gum pockets next to your teeth and dissolves naturally over seven days. The time release of this medication may continue to occur even after it has dissolved.


Question: What is used to treat dry mouth in dentistry?

Answer: Pilocarpine, marketed as Salagan, may be prescribed by your dentist if you have been diagnosed with dry mouth. The drug stimulates saliva production.


Question: What  anti-inflammatory drugs do dentists use?

Answer: Corticosteroids are available by prescription only and are available as pastes under such brand names as Kenalog in Orabase, Orabase- HCA, Oracort, Oralone, Lidex, Temovate and others.


Question: What  drugs do dentists use  to control patients' anxiety?

Answer: Local anesthesia, general anesthesia, nitrous oxide, or intravenous sedation is commonly used in dental procedures to help control pain and anxiety. Other pain relievers include prescription or nonprescription anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen ( Tylenol), anesthetics and topical analgesics.


Question: What are topical analgesics used in dentistry?

Answer: Topical Analgesics Dental analgesics are used in the mouth to relieve pain or irritation caused by many conditions, including toothache and sores in or around the mouth (such as cold sores, canker sores, and fever blisters). Also, some of these medicines are used to relieve pain or irritation caused by dentures or other dental appliances, including braces.


Question: How is sleep paralysis diagnosed?

Answer: Other factors that may be linked to sleep paralysis include: Lack of sleep Sleep schedule that changes Mental conditions such as stress or bipolar disorder Sleeping on the back Other sleep problems such as narcolepsy or nighttime leg cramps Use of certain medications, such as those for ADHD Substance abuse If you find yourself unable to move or speak for a few seconds or minutes when falling asleep or waking up, then it is likely you have isolated recurrent sleep paralysis. Often there is no need to treat this condition. Check with your doctor if you have any of these concerns: You feel anxious about your symptoms Your symptoms leave you very tired during the day Your symptoms keep you up during the night Your doctor may want to gather more information about your sleep health by doing any of the following: Ask you to describe your symptoms and keep a sleep diary for a few weeks Discuss your health history, including any known sleep disorders or any family history of sleep disorders Refer you to a sleep specialist for further evaluation Conduct overnight sleep studies or daytime nap studies to make sure you do not have another sleep disorder Most people need no treatment for sleep paralysis.


Question: What happens with hypnopompic sleep paralysis?

Answer: NREM sleep occurs first and takes up to 75% of your overall sleep time. During NREM sleep, your body relaxes and restores itself. At the end of NREM, your sleep shifts to REM. Your eyes move quickly and dreams occur, but the rest of your body remains very relaxed. Your muscles are "turned off" during REM sleep. If you become aware before the REM cycle has finished, you may notice that you cannot move or speak.


Question: How is sleep paralysis treated?

Answer: Often there is no need to treat this condition. Check with your doctor if you have any of these concerns: You feel anxious about your symptoms Your symptoms leave you very tired during the day Your symptoms keep you up during the night Your doctor may want to gather more information about your sleep health by doing any of the following: Ask you to describe your symptoms and keep a sleep diary for a few weeks Discuss your health history, including any known sleep disorders or any family history of sleep disorders Refer you to a sleep specialist for further evaluation Conduct overnight sleep studies or daytime nap studies to make sure you do not have another sleep disorder Most people need no treatment for sleep paralysis. Treating any underlying conditions such as narcolepsy may help if you are anxious or unable to sleep well. These treatments may include the following: Improving sleep habits -- such as making sure you get six to eight hours of sleep each night Using antidepressant medication if it is prescribed to help regulate sleep cycles Treating any mental health problems that may contribute to sleep paralysis Treating any other sleep disorders, such as narcolepsy or leg cramps There's no need to fear nighttime demons or alien abductors.


Question: What happens when hypnagogic sleep paralysis develops?

Answer: As you fall asleep, your body slowly relaxes. Usually you become less aware, so you do not notice the change. However, if you remain or become aware while falling asleep, you may notice that you cannot move or speak.


Question: What are medical causes of heartburn and acid reflux?

Answer: These factors include: Dietary Habits Eating large portions Eating certain foods, including onions, chocolate, peppermint, high-fat or spicy foods, citrus fruits, garlic, and tomatoes or tomato-based products Drinking certain beverages, including citrus juices, alcohol, and caffeinated and carbonated drinks Eating before bedtime Lifestyle Habits Being overweight Smoking Wearing tight-fitting clothing or belts Lying down or bending over, especially after eating Medical Causes Pregnancy Bulging of the stomach into the chest cavity, also called hiatal hernia GERD Ulcers Certain bacteria Taking certain medications, especially some antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aleve or Advil


Question: How many Americans experience heartburn/reflux symptoms at least once each month?

Answer: Most people have felt heartburn at one time or another. In fact, the American Gastroenterological Association reports that more than 60 million Americans experience heartburn/reflux symptoms at least once each month. Though uncomfortable, heartburn does not usually present a serious health problem for most people.


Question: What lifestyle habits can cause heartburn?

Answer: These factors include: Dietary Habits Eating large portions Eating certain foods, including onions, chocolate, peppermint, high-fat or spicy foods, citrus fruits, garlic, and tomatoes or tomato-based products Drinking certain beverages, including citrus juices, alcohol, and caffeinated and carbonated drinks Eating before bedtime Lifestyle Habits Being overweight Smoking Wearing tight-fitting clothing or belts Lying down or bending over, especially after eating Medical Causes Pregnancy Bulging of the stomach into the chest cavity, also called hiatal hernia GERD Ulcers Certain bacteria Taking certain medications, especially some antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aleve or Advil


Question: What dietary habits can cause heartburn?

Answer: These factors include: Dietary Habits Eating large portions Eating certain foods, including onions, chocolate, peppermint, high-fat or spicy foods, citrus fruits, garlic, and tomatoes or tomato-based products Drinking certain beverages, including citrus juices, alcohol, and caffeinated and carbonated drinks Eating before bedtime Lifestyle Habits Being overweight Smoking Wearing tight-fitting clothing or belts Lying down or bending over, especially after eating Medical Causes Pregnancy Bulging of the stomach into the chest cavity, also called hiatal hernia GERD Ulcers Certain bacteria Taking certain medications, especially some antibiotics, aspirin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Aleve or Advil