Question: Should I relax my muscles to relieve stress if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Slowly relax all the muscle groups in your body. Start with your feet and end with your head. First, tense the muscles for about 8 seconds. Then relax them, and feel the tension melt away.


Question: What is a valid option other than surgery for treating stage zero breast cancer?

Answer: There are three main treatment options: Lumpectomy only, a surgery that removes the abnormal cells and a little of the normal tissue near them Lumpectomy and radiation Mastectomy, a surgery that removes the entire breast Some experts believe âwatchful waitingâ is another valid option. About one third of the women with DCIS will get invasive cancer. Your doctor might suggest that you skip immediate treatment and keep a close eye on your condition instead. It's controversial. If you have surgery (and maybe radiation) right away, you might protect yourself from ever getting invasive cancer. Or you could end up going through painful procedures for no good reason. But if you skip surgery and radiation at first and choose to get more frequent screening tests, there's a chance you'll end up with cancer that's more advanced (and harder to treat) by the time doctors find it. It's a choice only you and your doctor can make.


Question: What are the treatment options for stage zero breast cancer?

Answer: There are three main treatment options: Lumpectomy only, a surgery that removes the abnormal cells and a little of the normal tissue near them Lumpectomy and radiation Mastectomy, a surgery that removes the entire breast Some experts believe âwatchful waitingâ is another valid option.


Question: What are the types of stage zero breast cancer?

Answer: There are two types of stage 0 breast cancer: Noninvasive Paget's disease, a rare form of breast cancer in the nipple Ductal carcinoma in situ ( DCIS). This is what most people mean when they talk about stage 0 breast cancer. The abnormal cells are still in your milk ducts and haven't affected the fatty tissue that makes up most of your breast. There's no known cause, and most people don't have any symptoms, though you may notice a lump or bloody discharge from your nipple. The abnormal cells may or may not become invasive and start to spread. There's no way to predict if this will happen.


Question: What are some other chemicals that can cause popcorn lung?

Answer: Other chemicals that can cause popcorn lung include: Metal oxide fumes, a common byproduct of welding Formaldehyde, a cancer-causing chemical used in some glues and building materials Sulfur dioxide, a pollutant released by burning fossil fuels Ammonia Chlorine Nitrogen oxides Hydrochloric acid Sulfur mustard, a chemical weapon known as "mustard gas" Sometimes, bronchiolitis obliterans happens after you've had a serious illness that affects your lungs, for example some forms of pneumonia or bronchitis.


Question: What is the purpose of lungs?

Answer: Your lungs are where your blood picks up oxygen before carrying it to cells in the rest of your body. When you breathe in, air flows into your lungs through your windpipe, or trachea. Your windpipe divides into two tubes called the bronchi, which lead to your left and right lungs.


Question: What happens when someone has popcorn lung?

Answer: When you have "popcorn lung," those tiny air passages get irritated and inflamed. That leads to scarring that makes them narrower. That makes it harder for you to get enough air.


Question: When are other times someone could have bronchiolitis obliterans?

Answer: Other chemicals that can cause popcorn lung include: Metal oxide fumes, a common byproduct of welding Formaldehyde, a cancer-causing chemical used in some glues and building materials Sulfur dioxide, a pollutant released by burning fossil fuels Ammonia Chlorine Nitrogen oxides Hydrochloric acid Sulfur mustard, a chemical weapon known as "mustard gas" Sometimes, bronchiolitis obliterans happens after you've had a serious illness that affects your lungs, for example some forms of pneumonia or bronchitis. And some people who have rheumatoid arthritis can get popcorn lung as a side effect of that condition.


Question: What are the main symptoms of popcorn lung?

Answer: The main symptoms of popcorn lung are a dry cough and shortness of breath. These show up between 2 weeks and 2 months after you've been around a toxic gas or had an illness. You're especially likely to have them when you're exercising or doing heavy labor. If you've had a lung transplant, it might take several years for symptoms to show up. If you feel tired without an obvious reason or wheeze when you don't have asthma or a cold, that also could be a symptom of bronchiolitis obliterans.


Question: How often is the emergency stockpile of the smallpox vaccine used?

Answer: The variola virus causes it.


Question: What would happen if there were an outbreak of smallpox?

Answer: If an outbreak of smallpox were to happen, public health measures would likely include these steps: find and vaccinate infected people, vaccinate health care workers and others at risk of infection, isolate smallpox patients to keep them from spreading the disease, and give vaccinations for the public as needed to contain the outbreak.


Question: How can I prevent smallpox?

Answer: The vaccine prompts the body's immune system to make the tools, called antibodies, it needs to protect against the variola virus and help prevent smallpox disease.


Question: How soon will I see symptoms of smallpox after I'm  infected?

Answer: During this time, the person isn't contagious and can't spread the virus to others. An infected person is most contagious once they start having symptoms. He can spread smallpox to others until he is completely symptom-free.


Question: What causes smallpox?

Answer: The variola virus causes it. There are two forms of the virus. The more dangerous form, variola major, led to smallpox disease that killed about 30% of people who were infected. Variola minor caused a less deadly type that killed about 1% of those who got it.


Question: What tests are used to diagnose allergic asthma?

Answer: These include: Smoke from tobacco, a fireplace, candles, incense, or fireworks Air pollution Cold air Exercise in cold air Strong chemical odors or fumes Perfumes, air fresheners, or other scented products Dusty rooms Your doctor can test you to see what causes your allergic asthma. The two most common (and recommended) methods are: Pricking your skin with a tiny amount of the allergen and measuring the size of the red bumps 20 minutes later A blood test known as a specific Ig E or s Ig E test To control your allergic asthma, you have to avoid breathing the allergens.


Question: What is an allergy?

Answer: Your immune system's job is to protect you from bacteria and viruses. If you have allergies, though, part of your immune system works too hard. It may attack harmless substances -- like cat dander or pollen -- in your nose, lungs, eyes, and under your skin. When your body meets an allergen, it makes chemicals called Ig E antibodies. They cause the release of chemicals like histamine, which cause swelling and inflammation. This creates familiar symptoms like a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing as your body tries to remove the allergen.


Question: Which irritants can trigger an asthma attack?

Answer: You're likely to: Cough Wheeze Be short of breath Breathe quickly Feel your chest get tight Allergens, small enough to be breathed deep into the lungs, include: Windblown pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds Mold spores and fragments Animal dander (from hair, skin, or feathers) and saliva Dust mite feces Cockroach feces Keep in mind that allergens aren't the only thing that can make your allergic asthma worse. Irritants may still trigger an asthma attack, even though they don't cause an allergic reaction. These include: Smoke from tobacco, a fireplace, candles, incense, or fireworks Air pollution Cold air Exercise in cold air Strong chemical odors or fumes Perfumes, air fresheners, or other scented products Dusty rooms Your doctor can test you to see what causes your allergic asthma.


Question: What are common causes for allergic asthma?

Answer: You're likely to: Cough Wheeze Be short of breath Breathe quickly Feel your chest get tight Allergens, small enough to be breathed deep into the lungs, include: Windblown pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds Mold spores and fragments Animal dander (from hair, skin, or feathers) and saliva Dust mite feces Cockroach feces Keep in mind that allergens aren't the only thing that can make your allergic asthma worse.


Question: What is allergic asthma?

Answer: If you have allergic asthma, your airways are extra sensitive to certain allergens. Once they get into your body, your immune system overreacts. The muscles around your airways tighten. The airways become inflamed and over time are flooded with thick mucus.


Question: How can corticosteroids help with lupus?

Answer: Lupus makes parts of your immune system overactive, so it attacks healthy tissue by mistake. Corticosteroids weaken this immune response. Your doctor may prescribe them if lupus causes problems in your heart, lungs, kidneys, brain, or blood vessels. Taken as a pill or IV, corticosteroids work fast to ease the swelling, warmth, and soreness in joints caused by inflammation. They can also prevent long-term organ damage.


Question: How can anti-inflammatory drugs help with lupus?

Answer: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can usually help you ease both of those problems. You can buy them without a prescription. Sometimes they can irritate your stomach, so take them with food or milk. Also be aware that using NSAIDs, especially at higher doses increase your risk for heart attack or stroke.


Question: How can antimalarial drugs help with lupus?

Answer: They are used to treat skin rashes, mouth sores, and joint pain. They may also reduce your risk of blood clots, which is a concern in some people with lupus. Antimalarial drugs protect against skin damage from ultraviolet rays in sunlight and may protect your body against organ damage linked to lupus.


Question: How do you treat lupus?

Answer: Treatment for lupus -- also known as systemic lupus erythematosus ( SLE) -- depends on your symptoms and how severe they are. Treatment can help: Ease your symptoms Bring down inflammation Prevent and relieve flares Prevent organ damage and other health problems If you have lupus, you may have joint pain and swelling, especially in your fingers, wrists, or knees.


Question: How can an occupational therapist help to treat multiple sclerosis spasticity?

Answer: If physical and occupational therapy don't help, your doctor may want you to try medications.


Question: What does occupational therapy treatment for MS-related spasticity entail?

Answer: If physical and occupational therapy don't help, your doctor may want you to try medications.


Question: What can worsen MS-related spasticity?

Answer: The condition can get worse when it's too hot or cold, when you have an infection, or if you're wearing tight clothing.


Question: What questions might the doctor ask to diagnose muscle sclerosis-related spasticity?

Answer: Physical therapy, medications, surgery, or a mix of these treatments can ease spasticity when you have MS. To decide the best way to help you, your doctors will think about your overall health, how severe your symptoms are, and: Does the condition keep you from doing everyday tasks? Are you in pain? Which treatments have you tried, and how well did they work? How much will it cost? What are the side effects? Will the benefits outweigh the risks?


Question: When are medications needed for multiple sclerosis spasticity?

Answer: If physical and occupational therapy don't help, your doctor may want you to try medications.


Question: When does surgery help for multiple sclerosis spasticity?

Answer: When other treatments don't work, there are two types of surgery that can treat spasticity. In one type, a surgeon cuts away part of the spinal nerve. The operation is called rhizotomy. The goal is to relieve pain or ease muscle tension. Tendon release, also called a tenotomy, is the second type. A surgeon cuts severely tight tendons away from the muscles. It may make spasticity happen less often and make it less severe, depending on how old you are. Over time, you may need to have the surgery again. These surgeries can help, but they're usually only for extreme cases of spasticity and are rarely performed in patients with MS..


Question: How can a physical therapist help to treat multiple sclerosis spasticity?

Answer: Most of the time, a physical therapist will start treating MS spasticity with a basic physical therapy stretching program. The goal is to lengthen your muscles to ease the condition.


Question: What is spasticity in multiple sclerosis?

Answer: It happens mostly in the muscles of the legs and arms, and it may keep you from moving your limbs freely. You might feel spasticity either as stiffness that doesn't go away or as movements you can't control that come and go, especially at night. It can feel like a muscle tightening, or it can be very painful. Spasticity also can make you ache or feel tight in and around your joints and low back. How you feel can vary depending on your position, posture, and how relaxed you are.


Question: What causes spasticity in multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Spasticity happens because of an imbalance in the electrical signals coming from the brain and spinal cord, often when multiple sclerosis has damaged the nerves there. This unevenness makes your muscles contract on their own and makes them tense. The condition can get worse when it's too hot or cold, when you have an infection, or if you're wearing tight clothing.


Question: How is multiple sclerosis spasticity treated?

Answer: Physical therapy, medications, surgery, or a mix of these treatments can ease spasticity when you have MS. To decide the best way to help you, your doctors will think about your overall health, how severe your symptoms are, and: Does the condition keep you from doing everyday tasks? Are you in pain? Which treatments have you tried, and how well did they work? How much will it cost? What are the side effects? Will the benefits outweigh the risks?


Question: What are the most common medications to treat muscle sclerosis-related spasticity?

Answer: The most common medications to treat the condition include the muscle relaxants baclofen ( Gablofen, Kemstro, Lioresal) and tizanidine ( Zanaflex). Another option is diazepam ( Valium), which can help you sleep if nighttime spasms keep you awake.


Question: What is spasticity and how does it relate to multiple sclerosis?

Answer: It happens mostly in the muscles of the legs and arms, and it may keep you from moving your limbs freely.


Question: Is there a specific treatment for muscle sclerosis spasticity?

Answer: Physical therapy, medications, surgery, or a mix of these treatments can ease spasticity when you have MS. To decide the best way to help you, your doctors will think about your overall health, how severe your symptoms are, and: Does the condition keep you from doing everyday tasks?


Question: Can surgery help treat muscle sclerosis-related spasticity?

Answer: When other treatments don't work, there are two types of surgery that can treat spasticity.


Question: What is tendon release and how is it used to treat MS-related spasticity?

Answer: A surgeon cuts severely tight tendons away from the muscles. It may make spasticity happen less often and make it less severe, depending on how old you are. Over time, you may need to have the surgery again.


Question: What causes spasticity in people with multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Spasticity happens because of an imbalance in the electrical signals coming from the brain and spinal cord, often when multiple sclerosis has damaged the nerves there. This unevenness makes your muscles contract on their own and makes them tense.


Question: Do surgeries usually help in treating muscle spasticity?

Answer: These surgeries can help, but they're usually only for extreme cases of spasticity and are rarely performed in patients with MS..


Question: What is Rogaine for hair loss?

Answer: Rogaine (topical minoxidil) and Propecia (finasteride) are the only drugs approved by the FDA to treat pattern baldness (hair loss resulting from hereditary causes). Rogaine is a topical solution that is applied by directly rubbing it onto the scalp where hair growth is desired. Only about 10% to 14% of the people who try this lotion experience hair growth. However, Rogaine lotion can help to slow hair loss.


Question: Who is not a candidate for hair replacement?

Answer: Candidates for hair replacement procedures include: Men with male-pattern baldness Some women with female-pattern (genetic) hair loss A person who has lost some hair as a result of burns or other scalp injuries People who've experienced recent hair loss Hair replacement is not recommended for the following people: Women with a diffuse, or wide-spread, pattern of hair loss Those who do not have sufficient "donor" sites (hair-bearing portions of the head from which hair-bearing skin is taken) People who form keloid scars that can result from trauma, surgery, burns, or radiation injury Hair Grafting or Hair Transplant Hair grafting -- also called a hair transplant -- is an outpatient hair replacement procedure performed in the dermatological surgeon's office.


Question: Can childbirth cause hair loss?

Answer: Thyroid disease, severe infection, or flu; fungus infections such as ringworm of the scalp For women, childbirth may cause temporary hair loss due to the changes that take place in the body.


Question: What can cause hair loss?

Answer: Factors that can cause hair loss include: Medications, vitamins, or minerals. Drugs used to treat high blood pressure, heart problems, depression, or gout; chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer patients; unusually high levels of vitamin A or low levels of iron or protein; for women, birth control pills can cause hair loss. Illness. Thyroid disease, severe infection, or flu; fungus infections such as ringworm of the scalp For women, childbirth may cause temporary hair loss due to the changes that take place in the body.


Question: What happens during and after hair grafting?

Answer: In hair grafting, the dermatological surgeon first removes a portion of the hair-bearing scalp from the back of the head. Then, the surgeon cuts the removed scalp into small segments with varying amounts of hair in each graft, which, when transplanted into the balding area, produce a very subtle thickening and "natural" look. With each session, 50 or more hair-bearing segments are usually transplanted. " Donor" sites are closed with stitches, which usually are then concealed by the surrounding hair. After the grafting session is complete, the scalp will be cleaned then covered with gauze and, if necessary, a bandage. Stitches will come out approximately 10 days later.


Question: Will there be any discomfort or side effects with hair grafting?

Answer: Most side effects that come with hair grafting usually go away within one to three weeks. Among the most common side effects are: Swelling Bruising around the eyes Crusting on the "donor" and "recipient" sites of the scalp A lack of feeling or sensation around the "donor" and "recipient" sites of the scalp Itching at the "donor" site Scalp Reduction A scalp reduction is the removal of non-hair-bearing skin from the scalp so that the remaining hair-bearing skin can be stretched to fill in the bald area of the head.


Question: Who is a candidate for hair replacement therapy?

Answer: Candidates for hair replacement procedures include: Men with male-pattern baldness Some women with female-pattern (genetic) hair loss A person who has lost some hair as a result of burns or other scalp injuries People who've experienced recent hair loss Hair replacement is not recommended for the following people: Women with a diffuse, or wide-spread, pattern of hair loss Those who do not have sufficient "donor" sites (hair-bearing portions of the head from which hair-bearing skin is taken) People who form keloid scars that can result from trauma, surgery, burns, or radiation injury Hair Grafting or Hair Transplant Hair grafting -- also called a hair transplant -- is an outpatient hair replacement procedure performed in the dermatological surgeon's office.


Question: What is scalp reduction for hair loss?

Answer: Among the most common side effects are: Swelling Bruising around the eyes Crusting on the "donor" and "recipient" sites of the scalp A lack of feeling or sensation around the "donor" and "recipient" sites of the scalp Itching at the "donor" site Scalp Reduction A scalp reduction is the removal of non-hair-bearing skin from the scalp so that the remaining hair-bearing skin can be stretched to fill in the bald area of the head. Scalp reduction can reduce as much as half of the bald area. It is a procedure performed to cover bald areas on the top and back of the head and is not found to be beneficial for the frontal hairline.


Question: What is Propecia?

Answer: Propecia is the first pill that can treat male pattern hair loss. Like all prescription products, it should be given under a doctor's care. While it is effective, if treatment is discontinued, results may not be maintained.


Question: How long does hair grafting take?

Answer: After each session, a healing process of two to four months is usually recommended.


Question: What is hair grafting for hair replacement?

Answer: Candidates for hair replacement procedures include: Men with male-pattern baldness Some women with female-pattern (genetic) hair loss A person who has lost some hair as a result of burns or other scalp injuries People who've experienced recent hair loss Hair replacement is not recommended for the following people: Women with a diffuse, or wide-spread, pattern of hair loss Those who do not have sufficient "donor" sites (hair-bearing portions of the head from which hair-bearing skin is taken) People who form keloid scars that can result from trauma, surgery, burns, or radiation injury Hair Grafting or Hair Transplant Hair grafting -- also called a hair transplant -- is an outpatient hair replacement procedure performed in the dermatological surgeon's office. Micro grafts contain only one to two hairs per graft, while slit grafts contain between four and ten, and punch grafts hold 10-15 hairs. Also available are mini-grafts (containing two to four hairs) and strip grafts (long thin grafts containing 30 to 40 hairs). Local anesthetic is injected into the scalp and sedation is available if needed for relaxation and comfort.


Question: What are national resources to help locate palliative care programs?

Answer: These national resources can help you to locate palliative care programs and providers in your area: Getpalliativecare.org Palliativedoctors.org National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Center to Advance Palliative Care: The center, based at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, has a mission to increase availability of palliative care services.


Question: What is the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization?

Answer: National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization This nonprofit organization is the nation's largest to represent hospice and palliative care programs and professionals. It engages in advocacy for patients and families, develops educational programs and materials, and conducts research.


Question: What is the National Institutes of Health: Clinical Trials on Palliative Care?

Answer: National Institutes of Health: Clinical Trials on Palliative Care The U. S. lists detailed information on clinical trials of palliative care on this site.


Question: What is the Center to Advance Palliative Care?

Answer: These national resources can help you to locate palliative care programs and providers in your area: Getpalliativecare.org Palliativedoctors.org National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Center to Advance Palliative Care: The center, based at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, has a mission to increase availability of palliative care services. It operates a web site for patients and families called "getpalliativecare.org." This site provides general information on palliative care and links to news stories. It also offers patients' personal stories and links to resources for them and their caregivers. The resources range from financial and caregiver help to information about specific diseases.


Question: What is the  American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine?

Answer: The American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine This professional organization represents more than 4,000 doctors who specialize in hospice and palliative medicine, as well as other professionals who are interested in the field.


Question: What happens if your doctor is hesitating to make a referral for palliative care?

Answer: Most doctors welcome the services that a palliative care team provides to their patients. However, on rare occasions, a primary care doctor might hesitate to make a referral. If you encounter this problem, ask your doctor for an explanation. You can also ask the palliative care team to help you explain why you would like such services. Then you can speak with your primary care doctor about how palliative care could benefit you.


Question: How do you pay for palliative care?

Answer: Most insurance plans cover palliative care treatment in full or partially. Typically, Medicare and Medicaid also cover palliative care. If you're concerned about costs, speak to a social worker from the palliative care team.


Question: What information about chronic obstructive pulmonary disease will your doctor assign grades to?

Answer: The original GOLD system used the term stages to refer to the different levels of COPD. Now they're called grades.


Question: What are the different chronic obstructive pulmonary disease groups?

Answer: Based on all of these things -- your symptoms, spirometry results, and exacerbation risk -- your doctor will put your COPD into one of these groups: Group A: Low risk, less symptoms Group B: Low risk, more symptoms Group C: High risk, less symptoms Group D: High risk, more symptoms If you have questions about any terms that your doctor uses -- whether âgradesâ or âgroups,â ask.


Question: What is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Answer: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) may sound like a single condition, but it includes several kinds of lung diseases. All of them can make you feel breathless.


Question: What is exacerbation risk in relation to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Answer: These results have four grades, too: GOLD 1: Mild GOLD 2: Moderate GOLD 3: Severe GOLD 4: Very severe Another thing that's part of your overall COPD assessment is your exacerbation risk. An exacerbation is a time when your COPD symptoms get so much worse that you need to make a change in your medication. Your doctor might also call it a flare. These flare-ups are more likely if your spirometry result is GOLD 3 or GOLD 4.


Question: What are your spirometry results based on?

Answer: Spirometry results are based on two measurements: Forced vital capacity ( FVC). This is the largest amount of air you can breathe out after breathing in as deeply as you can. Forced expiratory volume ( FEV-1). FEV-1 shows how much air you can exhale from your lungs in 1 second.


Question: What do your symptom grades for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease mean?

Answer: Your doctor will assign grades to these four things: How severe your current symptoms are Your spirometry results The chances that your COPD will get worse The presence of other health problems You'll answer some questions, either on the COPD Assessment Test ( CAT) or the Modified Medical Research Council (m MRC). CAT scores range from 0-40 and m MRC scores have five grades. For example, if you report that you only get winded when you do hard exercise, you might have m MRC grade 0. If you report being so breathless you can't even leave the house or get dressed, you could have m MRC grade 4.


Question: What is the GOLD system for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

Answer: The GOLD system bases the stage of your COPD on several things: Your symptoms How many times your COPD has gotten worse Any times you've had to stay in the hospital because your COPD has gotten worse Results from spirometry, a test that checks the amount of air and speed that you can exhale GOLD stands for the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease.


Question: How can you keep someone from Alzheimer's disease from becoming constipated?

Answer: Some Alzheimer's medications can cause constipation. It can also happen if someone doesn't eat or drink enough. Make sure your loved one: Gets plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in her diet. These are great sources of fiber, which can help curb constipation. Drinks enough water and other fluids. Stays active. Exercise can help get things moving in the bathroom, too.


Question: How can you ease dry mouth for someone with Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: Remind your loved one to drink water, and try other ways to avoid dry mouth: Dunk breads, toast, cookies, or crackers in milk, hot chocolate, or tea to soften them. Remind her to take a drink after each bite of food to moisten her mouth and help her swallow. Add broth or sauces to foods to make them softer and wetter. Offer sour candy or fruit ice to help her mouth make more saliva.


Question: Can good nutrition ese symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease?

Answer: There's no special diet for people with Alzheimer's disease, but good nutrition can ease some symptoms and help them feel good.


Question: What do the abbreviations on a prescription for glasses mean?

Answer: When you look at your prescription for eyeglasses, you will see numbers listed under the headings of OS and OD. They are Latin abbreviations: OS (oculus sinister) means the left eye and OD (oculus dextrus) means the right eye. Occasionally, you will see a notation for OU, which means something involving both eyes. In general, the further away from zero the number on your prescription, the worse your eyesight and the more vision correction (stronger prescription) you need. A âplusâ (+) sign in front of the number means you are farsighted, and a âminusâ (-) sign means you are nearsighted. These numbers represent diopters, the unit used to measure the correction, or focusing power, of the lens your eye requires. Diopter is often abbreviated " D." 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' && !


Question: Does acupuncture help with breast cancer treatment side effects?

Answer: A small study shows that acupuncture may help relieve hot flashes caused by some breast cancer treatments. Yoga, massage, and meditation have also been shown to decrease these hot flashes. Other benefits of acupuncture may include less vomiting, pain, and fatigue.


Question: Is reiki good for relaxation if you have breast cancer?

Answer: Another form of energy medicine that is sometimes used in the treatment of breast cancer is reiki, a practice that comes from Japan. Practitioners pass their hands over a person's body to manipulate bioenergy. Most women who try reiki report feelings of relaxation and reduced pain, but no research has yet proved its benefits or shown how it works.


Question: What questions do I need to ask my doctor before doing complementary treatment for breast cancer?

Answer: Ask your doctor these basic questions: What are the proven benefits of this complementary treatment? What are the "anecdotal" benefits reported by patients but not officially studied, such as less stress or better sleep? What are the risks, if any? Can this form of complementary treatment interfere with my standard breast cancer care?


Question: How does immunotherapy or biologic therapy treat advanced melanoma?

Answer: Immunotherapy or biologic therapy. These drugs help your immune system find and attack cancer cells. Depending on the ones you take, you might have to go in for treatment every 2, 3, or 4 weeks. Your doctor might want you to take more than one drug.


Question: What is targeted therapy for advanced melanoma and what are the risks?

Answer: These drugs turn off the genes in melanoma cells that make them grow out of control. Targeted therapy can do a good job at first, but it tends to stop working in time. Then you'd need to try another treatment. It's rare, but targeted therapy can cause problems with your heart, liver, kidneys, skin, or eyes. Some people may get a different kind of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.


Question: What are the side effects of treatment for advanced melanoma?

Answer: But they have some in common: Feeling very tired Changes in your appetite Constipation or diarrhea Itching Rashes Tell your doctor if you have any side effects, even if they don't seem too bad. Your doctor can help you manage them or keep them from getting worse.


Question: What are the risks of chemotherapy for advanced melanoma?

Answer: Some chemo drugs can damage your nerves and cause pain, burning, tingling, or weakness or make you more sensitive to heat or cold. Those problems usually go away when you stop treatment. Other side effects include: Hair loss Mouth sores Infection Bruising or bleeding Each kind of treatment has its own particular side effects to look out for.


Question: Is there treatment for melanoma once it's spread?

Answer: Based on where the disease spreads and how healthy you are, your doctor can suggest some treatments that would help you the most. It's important to have an open, honest talk with him about the kind of therapy you want, how long you want it, and your goals for your care.


Question: How will I feel if melanoma is spreading?

Answer: How the disease makes you feel depends on where in your body the cancer has spread to. For example, if it spreads to lymph nodes, they can get swollen and painful. If the melanoma goes to your lungs, you may have trouble breathing or a cough that won't go away. If it shows up in your liver, you may have indigestion, a swollen belly, or yellow skin and eyes, a condition called jaundice. In general, though, it's common for people with advanced melanoma to feel very tired, not feel hungry, and lose weight without trying.


Question: How does radiation treat advanced melanoma?

Answer: Radiation.


Question: How does surgery treat advanced melanoma?

Answer: This is the main way to remove melanoma from the skin and lymph nodes. You might also have an operation on organs where the cancer has spread. There's no guarantee your surgeon will get all of it. Some melanoma is too small to see, even with high-tech scans.


Question: How does melanoma spread?

Answer: Melanoma spreads when the tumor's cells travel through your body's tissues, blood, or lymph nodes. They can settle in your organs and keep growing there. They can do this because they're sneaky. Every day, your body makes cancerous cells. Normally they don't make it past âcheckpointsâ in your immune system, which destroys them. But melanoma cells can use these checkpoints to avoid attack.


Question: What are symptoms of wheezing?

Answer: The symptoms of wheezing include a musical or whistling sound and labored breathing, particularly when exhaling; sometimes they're accompanied by a feeling of tightening in the chest. You can hear wheezing more loudly if you plug your ears and exhale rapidly, or by using a stethoscope to listen to breathing over the lungs.


Question: What causes neurofibromatosis?

Answer: Neurofibromatosis is often inherited (passed on by family members through our genes), but about 50% of people newly diagnosed with the disorder have no family history of the condition, which can arise spontaneously through a mutation (change) in the genes. Once this change has taken place, the mutant gene can be passed on to future generations.


Question: What is the outlook for a person with neurofibromatosis?

Answer: Often, the symptoms of NF1 are mild and people who have it are able to lead full and productive lives. Sometimes, however, pain and deformity can result leading to significant disability. The outlook for people with NF2 depends of the person's age at onset of the diseases and on the number and location of tumors. Some can be life-threatening. Often, those with schwannomatosis have severe pain, and this can be very debilitating.


Question: What is sciatica?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Sciatica is a common type of pain affecting the sciatic nerve, a large nerve extending from the lower back down the back of each leg.


Question: What causes sciatica?

Answer: Sciatica is caused by irritation of the root(s) of the lower lumbar and lumbosacral spine. Additional common causes of sciatica include: Lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back) Degenerative disc disease (breakdown of discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae) Spondylolisthesis (a condition in which one vertebra slips forward over another one) Pregnancy Muscle spasm in the back or buttocks Other things that may make your back pain worse include being overweight, not exercising regularly, wearing high heels, or sleeping on a mattress that is too hard or too soft.


Question: What worsens sciatica pain?

Answer: Additional common causes of sciatica include: Lumbar spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal in the lower back) Degenerative disc disease (breakdown of discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae) Spondylolisthesis (a condition in which one vertebra slips forward over another one) Pregnancy Muscle spasm in the back or buttocks Other things that may make your back pain worse include being overweight, not exercising regularly, wearing high heels, or sleeping on a mattress that is too hard or too soft.


Question: How often will you have flare-ups of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)?

Answer: HS can be unpredictable. You may have a flare-up every few weeks, or you may go months with clear skin. Some women find they have breakouts before their periods. They may go away while you're pregnant or breastfeeding. There's no sure way to prevent breakouts. But they may not come back as often or be as bad if you follow your treatment plan, take any medication your doctor prescribes, and make some changes to your lifestyle.


Question: What should I do if my Crohn's disease doctor isn't right for me?

Answer: If your doctor doesn't hit the mark in all areas, these tips may help you: Bring questions. Come to your doctor visit with a list of things that are on your mind. Bring up the most pressing ones first. Your doctor or a staff member might also answer questions by email. Let you doctor know if you don't understand something or need something repeated. Ask anything -- no question is too basic. Be honest. Keep notes of your symptoms and the treatments you've tried, including over-the-counter drugs and nutrition supplements. Tell your doctor how you feel. And if you miss a dose of a prescribed drug, be sure to mention that. If you don't think your doctor is right for you, you can look for another one. Your insurance provider, regular doctor, friends, or the American College of Gastroenterology may be able to help you find one who specializes in treating Crohn's.


Question: What kind of doctor should I look for if I have Crohn's disease?

Answer: Or it may be severe and require complex treatment. In that case, the number one thing to look for is the right kind of gastroenterologist. A gastroenterologist is a doctor who specializes in digestion and problems in the gut. If you have severe Crohn's, find a gastroenterologist who specializes in inflammatory bowel disease. You can find one at most medical centers and teaching hospitals or through the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. If you can't see a specialist, your primary care doctor may need to consult with one to plan your care.


Question: How can I avoid health problems caused by Crohn's disease?

Answer: Willing to treat Crohn's aggressively if necessary. The better your treatment is at keeping your gut from becoming inflamed, the more likely you are to avoid scarring and other health problems that Crohn's can cause. This helps you avoid hospital stays and surgeries and keep up with your job, family, and the things you enjoy.


Question: How helpful should my Crohn's disease doctor be?

Answer: You want a doctor who can explain your disease or answer your questions fully and clearly. If your doctor doesn't have enough time to answer your questions, make sure a nurse or other person in the office can.


Question: What should my Crohn's disease doctor discuss with me?

Answer: Looks beyond drug treatment. Your doctor should also talk to you about more than medications. You also need to discuss food and nutrition, helpful lifestyle habits like exercise and not smoking, and surgery if it could help you.


Question: How should the doctor treating my Crohn's disease help me?

Answer: Your Crohn's doctor should be willing to work with your primary care doctor, who is your partner for treating any other medical problems you may have. Your Crohn's doctor should also be able to refer you to people who will help you make other health changes such as quit smoking, get more exercise, or improve your diet.


Question: If I donât think my Crohn's doctor is right for me what should I do?

Answer: If you don't think your doctor is right for you, you can look for another one. Your insurance provider, regular doctor, friends, or the American College of Gastroenterology may be able to help you find one who specializes in treating Crohn's.


Question: Why do doctors prescribe nitroglycerin for chest pain?

Answer: Doctors usually prescribe nitroglycerin for angina pectoris, which often is called just "angina." It's sudden heart-related chest pain. It happens because something prevents the flow of blood to your heart muscle. Nitroglycerin helps widen the blood vessels so more blood gets to your heart muscle. That helps stop the pain.


Question: Why is it dangerous to take ED medicine with nitroglycerin?

Answer: Prescription ED pills include: Avanafil ( Stendra) Sildenafil ( Viagra) Tadalafil ( Cialis) Vardenafil ( Levitra, Staxyn) Why shouldn't you take your ED medicine with your nitroglycerin? The reason is that both lower your blood pressure. Taken together, your blood pressure may get to a very low, and dangerous, level. Because of this effect, the American Heart Association warns against it. You may still be able to take both medicines, at different times. Talk with your doctor about how long you should wait between taking the two medicines.


Question: What should you do if you take nitroglycerin and still have chest pain?

Answer: If you take your nitroglycerin as instructed and you still have chest pain, get medical help right away.


Question: When should you call the doctor about dehydration in a child?

Answer: Dehydration can be serious in a baby or young child. If you notice these signs, see a doctor right away: Extreme sleepiness Less responsive than usual Few wet diapers Cold and blotchy hands and feet No tears when crying Dark yellow pee Very dry mouth Usually, dehydration is easy to treat at home if you get out of the heat and drink plenty of liquids. But once you're thirsty, you're probably already dehydrated, so it's best to drink plenty of fluids regularly.


Question: What causes dehydration?

Answer: You can become dehydrated for many different reasons. It could be from sweating too much. Vomiting or diarrhea can quickly remove fluids from your body, too. So can medicines that make you pee a lot. All of these things can cause you to lose more water and electrolytes (essential minerals in your blood and body fluids) than are good for you. If you don't have enough, your body has trouble doing the things it's supposed to do. There's really only one way to treat dehydration -- replace the fluids and electrolytes your body has lost.


Question: What are the symptoms of trochanteric bursitis?

Answer: Other causes of trochanteric bursitis include: muscle tears hip injuries hip surgery complications poor posture diseases such as gout (a form of arthritis with sudden, sharp attacks of pain, often at the base of the big toe) You'll first notice trochanteric bursitis when you feel pain at the outside of your hip. At first, the pain may be sharp, but with time, it may turn into a dull ache. Moving your hip, particularly going down stairs, might make the pain worse. If left untreated, the pain may start going down your upper leg. You'll likely feel it when you lay on the side of your affected hip and when getting up from a chair. The joint becomes stiff, and the bursa itself is sensitive to touch. In extreme cases, your hip joint may become red and swollen and you may even have a fever.


Question: How is trochanteric bursitis diagnosed?

Answer: When you visit your doctor, she'll most likely do a physical exam, focusing on how long you've had the condition and specific movements that cause the pain. She may order X-rays to rule out other issues, since bursitis itself doesn't show up on X-rays. You could get an ultrasound test, and you may get an MRI if your hip isn't responding to treatment. In some cases, your doctor may inject your bursa with an anesthetic. If the pain goes away at once, you most likely have trochanteric bursitis.


Question: What are other causes of trochanteric bursitis?

Answer: Other causes of trochanteric bursitis include: muscle tears hip injuries hip surgery complications poor posture diseases such as gout (a form of arthritis with sudden, sharp attacks of pain, often at the base of the big toe) You'll first notice trochanteric bursitis when you feel pain at the outside of your hip.


Question: What is trochanteric bursitis?

Answer: The outside point of the hip, which is called the greater trochanter, has a bursa called the trochanteric bursa. ( The other bursa, on the inside of the hip area, is called the iliopsoas bursa.) When that outside hip bursa gets inflamed, you have trochanteric bursitis. Also known as greater trochanteric pain syndrome ( GTPS), it is a common condition and easily treatable. You'll find bursa sacs at many of the body's major joints, including the elbow, shoulder, and knee. The small pouches are filled with a thick fluid and are meant to lubricate joints and protect body parts from friction. The trochanteric bursa, like other bursae, may become inflamed if the hip is overused or injured.


Question: Can eating breakfast help with bad breath?

Answer: Eat breakfast: Even if you brush your teeth when you get up, your morning breath may reappear if you don't eat. Morning mouth may be associated with hunger.


Question: Can chewing gum with xylitol help with bad breath?

Answer: Chew sugarless gum with xylitol: Gum with the natural sweetener xylitol can prevent the growth of bad-breath bacteria. The gum itself can bring more saliva to your mouth, which will naturally make your mouth fresher.


Question: Can drinking water help with bad breath?

Answer: Drink water: If your bad breath is caused by weight loss, water can dilute the chemicals that cause the odors. Water also helps wash away bacteria and food particles.


Question: Can dieting bring on bad breath?

Answer: Diets that lead to weight loss: We agree that it seems unjust, but when your body breaks down fat, the process releases chemicals that can give your breath an unpleasant smell.


Question: Can taking care of health problems help with bad breath?

Answer: Take care of health problems: Work with your doctor to keep diabetes, allergies, and other conditions under control.


Question: Can cleaning your teeth help with bad breath?

Answer: Clean those teeth: Not only do they prevent odor-causing plaque from building up in your mouth, but brushing, flossing and rinsing are healthy for your gums and teeth, too. If you can't brush after a meal, give your mouth a good rinse with water to at least loosen up and free those trapped bits.


Question: Does tobacco cause bad breath?

Answer: Bad breath starts with what you put in your mouth. Garlic for lunch?


Question: How do medications or health issues cause bad breath?

Answer: Medications or health issues: Drugs that cause dry mouth can also contribute to bad breath. Health problems such as seasonal allergies, chronic sinusitis, bronchitis, respiratory infections, stomach problems, diabetes, and liver and kidney diseases factor in, too. Unrelenting bad breath may also be a sign of gum disease.


Question: How does dry mouth cause bad breath?

Answer: Dry mouth: Feeling parched? Saliva's job is to serve as a continuous rinse cycle for your mouth. If you don't have enough, your mouth loses its freshness fast. In fact, morning breath is worse for people who sleep with their mouths open.


Question: How does food trapped in your mouth cause bad breath?

Answer: Food "trapped" in your mouth: We're not talking about just a little spinach on your teeth. After a meal, any food particles that remain between your teeth, in your gums, or on your tongue can release their odor into your breath -- which gets worse as that food decays. And without good care of your teeth and gums, this stuck food can set off a cascade of events leading to gum disease.


Question: Can using mouthwash or dental rinse help with bad breath?

Answer: Antiseptic mouthwash can help kill bacteria that cause bad breath and plaque that can lead to gingivitis, an early, mild form of gum disease. Adding a fluoride rinse to your daily routine can help prevent tooth decay.


Question: Can cleaning your tongue help with bad breath?

Answer: Clean that tongue: Bacteria on your tongue can contribute to bad breath. When you brush your teeth, brush your tongue, too, or use a tongue scraper.


Question: Can eating hard fruits or vegetables help with bad breath?

Answer: Eat a hard fruit or vegetable: Apples, carrots, celery, and other hard fruits and vegetables help clear odor-causing plaque and food particles from your mouth.


Question: How can stress affect blood sugar levels in people with diabetes?

Answer: This is your fight-or-flight response. It prompts your body to act like it's under attack. When this happens, your hormone levels go up. Your body burns its stored energy sources -- glucose and fat -- to meet the threat. When you have diabetes, insulin can't break through the cells to break down the glucose, and your levels rise. Stress can also cause blood sugar to rise indirectly. You may be less likely to take care of yourself by eating right, exercising, or taking your medicine when you're stressed out. Learn to relax. Try meditation, yoga, or massage.


Question: How do brushing and flossing affect glucose and blood sugar?

Answer: And serious gum disease can make it harder to keep your blood sugar under control. Like all infections, it may cause your glucose to rise. That, in turn, can make other infections more likely. Make sure you not only brush and floss your teeth but also rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash daily. Keep up with your dentist visits, work on managing your blood sugar, and, if you have gum disease, treat it -- and any other infection in any part of your body -- ASAP.


Question: How does smoking affect blood sugar?

Answer: If you light up, you raise your chances of getting diabetes. If you already have diabetes, you're more likely to have trouble finding the right dose of insulin and controlling your blood sugar. Smoking makes it harder to keep your blood sugar levels down. The lesson here: If you smoke, quit.


Question: How can dietary choices keep blood sugar levels under control?

Answer: Watch what you eat since that's one of the most important things you can do to control your blood sugar, also called blood glucose. That's because of the impact that carbohydrates -- the sugars and starches in foods -- can have.


Question: How can smoking affect blood sugar levels in people with diabetes?

Answer: If you light up, you raise your chances of getting diabetes. If you already have diabetes, you're more likely to have trouble finding the right dose of insulin and controlling your blood sugar. Smoking makes it harder to keep your blood sugar levels down. The lesson here: If you smoke, quit. Blood sugar levels go up from time to time.


Question: What medications can raise my glucose levels?

Answer: But if you miss a dose or take the wrong dose of your medicine, you could cause your levels to spike. Some drugs, such as corticosteroids, can have the same effect. Other meds that could raise your glucose include: Diuretics (âwater pillsâ) Drugs used to treat depression Blood pressure medicines If you're on any of these medicines and you notice your blood sugar is high, talk to your doctor. He may adjust your diet or medications.


Question: When should I get the seasonal flu vaccine?

Answer: Or just weighing the pros and cons of the seasonal flu vaccine? The flu vaccine is not only about protecting you from getting the flu but also to prevent you from transmitting the flu to vulnerable people around you, such as the elderly, children, or the immuno-compromised.


Question: Why do we need to get flu vaccines every year?

Answer: Flu viruses change, so flu vaccines must change, too. Each year's vaccine is unique, cultivated from the flu strains health officials believe will be most menacing that year.


Question: Can people with egg allergy safely get the flu vaccine?

Answer: It's long been advised that people with allergies to eggs should not get the flu shot. However, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology says the vaccine contains such a low amount of egg protein that it's unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in those with an egg allergy. If you have a severe egg allergy (anaphylaxis), talk to your doctor before getting the flu vaccine. Also, flu vaccines not made with the use of eggs are available.


Question: What is the link between autism spectrum disorders and the flu vaccine preservative thimerosal?

Answer: Concern that there's a link between autism spectrum disorders and the vaccine preservative thimerosal has prevented some parents from getting their kids vaccinated. Worry no more. Studies have found that there is no link between vaccines containing thimerosal and ASD. And if you're still worried, thimerosal-free flu vaccines are now the standard for children in the U. S. -- and available to adults for the asking.


Question: What are some eating tips for people with Crohn's disease?

Answer: Eat small meals or snacks every few hours rather than three large meals a day. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other fluids. When you're not having a flare, focus on eating a wide variety of healthy foods. To be sure you get enough nutrients, ask your doctor about taking a multivitamin. If you have little appetite or trouble eating solid foods, try drinking liquid nutritional supplements. After a flare, slowly add back the foods you have avoided and boost your calories and protein to help make up for what you may have missed.


Question: What should you eat during a Crohn's disease flare-up?

Answer: As a general rule, the best foods to stick to during flares are bland, low-fiber, and low-fat. Some foods that may fit the bill are: Bananas White bread and white rice Applesauce Smooth peanut butter Skinned potatoes Steamed or broiled fish, such as salmon and halibut Cheese, if you're not lactose intolerant Refined pasta Cooked vegetables Cooked eggs or egg substitutes Some foods can be hard to digest and may make the situation worse.


Question: What are some foods to avoid during a Crohn's flare?

Answer: Some foods that may fit the bill are: Bananas White bread and white rice Applesauce Smooth peanut butter Skinned potatoes Steamed or broiled fish, such as salmon and halibut Cheese, if you're not lactose intolerant Refined pasta Cooked vegetables Cooked eggs or egg substitutes Some foods can be hard to digest and may make the situation worse. You may want to avoid: High-fiber foods Fried foods Full-fat dairy products, such as whole milk, half-and-half, and ice cream Raw vegetables and fruits Foods and drinks with caffeine, including chocolate and coffee Beans Cabbage Carbonated beverages Cakes, cookies, and other sweet foods Crohn's makes it harder for your body to absorb vitamins and minerals such as: Vitamin B12 Folate Calcium Vitamin D Iron Zinc Magnesium You may get regular blood tests to check that you're getting the nutrients you need.


Question: Should you exercise if you have Crohn's disease?

Answer: People often exercise to try to lose weight, but it may also help stop weight loss. Exercise may boost your appetite. Being active also helps strengthen bones and muscles, both of which can be weakened by Crohn's. Building muscle may help you gain weight.


Question: What are the types of motor tics?

Answer: Motor tics can be classified as either simple or complex. Simple motor tics may include movements such as eye-blinking, nose-twitching, head-jerking, or shoulder-shrugging. Complex motor tics consist of a series of movements performed in the same order. For instance a person might reach out and touch something repeatedly or kick out with one leg and then the other.


Question: Do ADHD medications cause tics?

Answer: Doctors once believed that certain medications, including some used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, induced tics in children that were prone to them. Newer studies, though, suggest this is not the case.


Question: Can Tourette's get better?

Answer: The severity of Tourette's syndrome often changes over time. There may be periods of reduced tic frequency followed by heightened tic activity. Fortunately, many people with Tourette's syndrome find that their condition improves as they get older.


Question: Who gets tics?

Answer: While people of all ages can experience tics, they are most prevalent in children. Experts say that around 25% of children experience tics. And tics are far more likely to affect boys than girls.


Question: What is benign essential blepharospasm?

Answer: Blepharospasm refers to the muscles of one or both eyelids twitching uncontrollably. This often occurs repeatedly over a sustained period of time. In extreme cases, which are rare, benign essential blepharospasm may also involve the eyebrows, mouth, and neck.


Question: How do doctors identify and diagnose tic disorders?

Answer: Doctors use four characteristics to identify and diagnose tic disorders: the age when tics began duration of the tics severity of the tics whether tics are motor or vocal or both Transient tic disorder.


Question: How are tic disorders treated?

Answer: The treatment for tic disorders depends on the severity of the condition. In many instances, no treatment is needed and the tics will resolve on their own. In other cases, doctors may prescribe behavioral therapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Behavioral therapy helps people learn to manage their tic symptoms and reduce tic frequency. Medications are typically used to reduce tic frequency and enhance a person's daily life. This usually does not result in the complete remission of tic symptoms.


Question: What are chronic motor or vocal tic disorders?

Answer: While transient tics disappear within a year, chronic tics can last for a year or more. Chronic tic disorder is characterized by the presence of one or more long-lasting tics. They may be either motor or vocal, but not both.


Question: What is a transient tic disorder?

Answer: It affects between 5% and 25% of school-age children. Transient tic disorder is characterized by the presence of one or more tics for at least one month but less than one year. The majority of tics seen in this disorder are motor tics, though vocal tics may also be present. Many children with the disorder experience multiple episodes of the transient tics, which may vary in how they manifest over time.


Question: What is hiatal hernia?

Answer: If the hiatus weakens and stretches, part of the stomach can squeeze into the chest cavity, producing a hiatal hernia.


Question: What is sliding hiatal hernia?

Answer: In a sliding hiatal hernia, the junction where the stomach and the esophagus meets slides up into the chest through the hiatus. This is the more common type of hernia. Generally, sliding hiatal hernias pose no threat to a person's health unless he or she develops symptoms of GERD, gastrointestinal reflux disease.


Question: What is paraesophageal hernias?

Answer: Paraesophageal hernias are less common but are more cause for concern. The junction of the esophagus and stomach stays in its normal locations, but part of the stomach squeezes through the hiatus, landing it next to the esophagus. Although you can have this type of hernia without any symptoms, the danger is that the stomach can become "strangled," or have its blood supply shut off.


Question: How can you help someone who has depression to follow their treatment plan?

Answer: Consider turning to support groups, either for the depressed person, or for you as his or her family member.


Question: What are the symptoms of spine fractures?

Answer: That makes it hard for doctors to diagnose the problem early on. But over time, symptoms of a spinal fracture may include: Sudden, severe back pain Pain that gets worse when you stand or walk Trouble bending or twisting your body Loss of height A curved, stooped shape to your spine Fractures in the lower spine often cause greater pain and trouble moving than those in the upper spine.


Question: What is the treatment for spine fractures?

Answer: You'll probably get medicine to relieve your pain while the fracture heals. Your doctor will also encourage you to move around as soon as possible. Physical therapy might be a good idea, too -- a therapist can teach you exercises to help with your injury. Some people need more support for their spine with a brace or surgery. Having one fracture means you're more likely to have another, so your doctor may also talk to you about taking medicines that treat osteoporosis and make your bones stronger.


Question: What can cause dandruff?

Answer: Several things can cause dandruff: Seborrheic dermatitis: This is oily, itchy, irritated skin that flakes off on your scalp. It also can happen with your eyebrows, groin, or chest hair. Contact dermatitis: Hair care products like shampoo, gel, or dye can irritate your scalp and cause redness, itchiness, and flakes. Fungus called malassezia is a yeast that thrives on the oil on your scalp. If you don't shampoo your hair often enough, oily skin can flake off. Dry skin can lead to small flakes on your scalp. You'll probably have dry skin all over your body. Male hormones: Men are more likely to get dandruff than women. People whose immune systems can't fight off diseases, for instance people who have HIV, may be more likely to get dandruff.


Question: How is scalp psoriasis diagnosed?

Answer: Your doctor may figure out the reason your scalp flakes or itches just from your symptoms. To be sure, she may look at a small piece of skin from your scalp under a microscope or send it to a lab.


Question: How is scalp psoriasis treated?

Answer: Coal tar and salicylic acid shampoos or scalp treatments may also help with mild scalp psoriasis. Topical creams, ointments, and foams like the following can slow psoriasis skin buildup and ease red, scaly patches on your scalp. They may have vitamins or steroids to calm the inflammation: Anthralin ( Zithranol- RR) Calcipotriene ( Dovonex) Calcipotriene and betamethasone dipropionate ( Taclonex) Calcitriol ( Vectical) Tazarotene ( Tazorac) Your doctor can also put steroids (strong anti-inflammatory drugs) into the patches on your scalp if your psoriasis is milder or just in a few spots. If you have severe psoriasis, you may need stronger drugs. These include methotrexate, which affects how certain cells grow; cyclosporine, which slows down your immune system; biologics, which target specific areas of your immune system; or oral retinoids, which are high doses of vitamin A. You can also try ultraviolet or UV light treatments to control your psoriasis patches. You can part your hair in rows so UV light from a special lamp can reach your scalp or use a handheld UV comb that beams the light directly to your scalp.


Question: How are common forms of stomatitis treated?

Answer: Mouth sores generally don't last longer than two weeks, even without treatment. If a cause can be identified, your doctor may be able to treat it. If a cause cannot be identified, the focus of treatment shifts to symptom relief. The following strategies might help to ease the pain and inflammation of mouth sores: Avoid hot beverages and foods as well as salty, spicy, and citrus-based foods. Use pain relievers like Tylenol or ibuprofen. Gargle with cool water or suck on ice pops if you have a mouth burn.


Question: What are canker sores?

Answer: Types of stomatitis include: Canker sore: A canker sore, also known as an aphthous ulcer, is a single pale or yellow ulcer with a red outer ring or a cluster of such ulcers in the mouth, usually on the cheeks, tongue, or inside the lip.


Question: How common are canker sores?

Answer: About 20% people in the U. S. will have canker sores at some point during their lifetime -- women more often than men.


Question: What is stomatitis?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Stomatitis, a general term for an inflamed and sore mouth, can disrupt a person's ability to eat, talk, and sleep. Stomatitis can occur anywhere in the mouth, including the inside of the cheeks, gums, tongue, lips, and palate.


Question: What causes cold sores?

Answer: Cold Sores Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1. Unlike canker sores, cold sores are contagious from the time the blister ruptures to the time it has completely healed. The initial infection often occurs before adulthood and may be confused with a cold or the flu. Once the person is infected with the virus, it stays in the body, becoming dormant and reactivated by such conditions as stress, fever, trauma, hormonal changes (such as menstruation), and exposure to sunlight. When sores reappear, they tend to form in the same location. In addition to spreading to other people, the virus can also spread to another body part of the affected person, such as the eyes or genitals.


Question: What are the characteristics of canker sores?

Answer: The irritation can be caused by: Biting your cheek, tongue, or lip Wearing braces or another type of dental apparatus, or having a sharp, broken tooth Chewing tobacco Burning one's mouth from hot food or drinks Having gum disease (gingivitis) or other type of mouth infection Having hypersensitivity to certain things, such as foods or medicines Having certain autoimmune diseases affecting the mucosal lining of the mouth, such as lupus, Crohn's disease, or Behcet's disease Taking certain drugs such as chemotherapy, antibiotics, medications used for rheumatoid arthritis, or epilepsy medications Receiving radiation as part of cancer treatment Canker sores: Can be painful Usually last 5 to 10 days Tend to come back Are generally not associated with fever Cold sores: Are usually painful Are usually gone in 7 to 10 days Are sometimes associated with cold or flu-like symptoms Canker Sores Nobody knows what exactly causes canker sores, but many things may contribute to their development, such as certain medications, trauma to the mouth, poor nutrition, stress, bacteria or viruses, lack of sleep, sudden weight loss, and certain foods such as potatoes, citrus fruits, coffee, chocolate, cheese, and nuts.


Question: What is the treatment for cold sores?

Answer: There is no cure for cold sores. Treatment includes: Taking a dose of valacyclovir ( Valtrex) at the first sign of an attack Coating the lesions with a protective ointment such as an antiviral agent (for example, 5% acyclovir ointment) Applying ice to the lesion Taking L-lysine tablets may also help, as might antiviral mediations that a doctor prescribes. Some experts believe that these drugs shorten the time that the blisters are present.


Question: What are cold sores?

Answer: Cold sores : Also called fever blisters, cold sores are fluid-filled sores that occur on or around the lips. They rarely form on the gums or the roof of the mouth. Cold sores later crust over with a scab and are usually associated with tingling, tenderness, or burning before the actual sores appear.


Question: What causes mouth irritation?

Answer: The irritation can be caused by: Biting your cheek, tongue, or lip Wearing braces or another type of dental apparatus, or having a sharp, broken tooth Chewing tobacco Burning one's mouth from hot food or drinks Having gum disease (gingivitis) or other type of mouth infection Having hypersensitivity to certain things, such as foods or medicines Having certain autoimmune diseases affecting the mucosal lining of the mouth, such as lupus, Crohn's disease, or Behcet's disease Taking certain drugs such as chemotherapy, antibiotics, medications used for rheumatoid arthritis, or epilepsy medications Receiving radiation as part of cancer treatment Canker sores: Can be painful Usually last 5 to 10 days Tend to come back Are generally not associated with fever Cold sores: Are usually painful Are usually gone in 7 to 10 days Are sometimes associated with cold or flu-like symptoms Canker Sores Nobody knows what exactly causes canker sores, but many things may contribute to their development, such as certain medications, trauma to the mouth, poor nutrition, stress, bacteria or viruses, lack of sleep, sudden weight loss, and certain foods such as potatoes, citrus fruits, coffee, chocolate, cheese, and nuts.


Question: What are the characteristics of cold sores?

Answer: The irritation can be caused by: Biting your cheek, tongue, or lip Wearing braces or another type of dental apparatus, or having a sharp, broken tooth Chewing tobacco Burning one's mouth from hot food or drinks Having gum disease (gingivitis) or other type of mouth infection Having hypersensitivity to certain things, such as foods or medicines Having certain autoimmune diseases affecting the mucosal lining of the mouth, such as lupus, Crohn's disease, or Behcet's disease Taking certain drugs such as chemotherapy, antibiotics, medications used for rheumatoid arthritis, or epilepsy medications Receiving radiation as part of cancer treatment Canker sores: Can be painful Usually last 5 to 10 days Tend to come back Are generally not associated with fever Cold sores: Are usually painful Are usually gone in 7 to 10 days Are sometimes associated with cold or flu-like symptoms Canker Sores Nobody knows what exactly causes canker sores, but many things may contribute to their development, such as certain medications, trauma to the mouth, poor nutrition, stress, bacteria or viruses, lack of sleep, sudden weight loss, and certain foods such as potatoes, citrus fruits, coffee, chocolate, cheese, and nuts.


Question: What drugs are used to treat canker sores?

Answer: Anti-inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids (including prednisone) are the most effective treatment for canker sores, as they will reduce swelling and pain. They are also effective for cold sores after the sore has been present for three to four days, because at that point the virus has disappeared and only the inflammation remains. Not all people can take certain types of anti-inflammatory drugs. For example, if prednisone is given to people with diabetes, their blood sugars will go up. Talk to your doctor about any health conditions you have before starting a new medication.


Question: Are learning disabilities common in children with ADHD?

Answer: In about 20% to 30% of children with ADHD, there is a specific learning disability that makes it hard for a child to master skills, such as math or reading. For example, dyslexia, a type of reading disorder, is often seen in children with ADHD. Diagnosing learning disabilities requires specific academic testing (which is done by a psychologist).


Question: Are anxiety and depression common in children with ADHD?

Answer: Some children with ADHD may have anxiety or depression (about 20% to 25%). If the anxiety or depression is recognized and treated, these children will be better able to handle the problems that accompany ADHD.


Question: Is oppositional defiant disorder common in children with ADHD?

Answer: As many as 30% to 50% of all children with ADHD have oppositional defiant disorder ( ODD). These children are often disobedient and have outbursts of temper. ODD is more common in boys than girls.


Question: Is mania or bipolar disorder common in children with ADHD?

Answer: Mania/ Bipolar Disorder. A few children with ADHD will go on to develop mania. Bipolar disorder is marked by mood swings between periods of intense emotional highs and lows. The bipolar child may have elated moods and grandiosity (feelings of importance) alternating with periods of depression or chronic irritability.


Question: Is conduct disorder common in children with ADHD?

Answer: Approximately 30% to 50% of children with ADHD and ODD may eventually develop conduct disorder ( CD), a more serious pattern of antisocial behavior. These children frequently lie or steal and tend to disregard the welfare of others. They risk getting into trouble at school or with the police.


Question: Why do people 50 and older need a cholesterol screening?

Answer: Cholesterol screening: Heart disease is one of the top causes of death in the U. S. One of its main risk factors is high cholesterol. After you turn 20, you should start getting your cholesterol tested at least once every 4 to 6 years. A simple blood test shows your levels and risk for heart disease. As you age, your risk for heart disease goes up. If you're in your 50s, it's important to keep getting screened.


Question: Why do people 50 and older need a bone mineral density scan?

Answer: Bone mineral density scan: This checks your risk for osteoporosis, a condition that weakens your bones. It's recommended for all women at age 65. If you're at high risk, your doctor may want you to do it earlier. This screening also may help men ages 70 and older.


Question: How often should women 50 and older get screened for breast cancer?

Answer: Mammogram: Experts agree that this is the best way to find breast cancer early. There's some debate about how often you should get one. The U. S. Preventive Services Task Force says all women between ages 50 and 74 should have a mammogram every 2 years. The American Cancer Society says if you're over 40, you should get one each year. Talk with your doctor to determine the best schedule for you, based on your family history and other reasons.


Question: Why do people 50 and older need a blood pressure check?

Answer: Blood pressure check: High blood pressure can cause a heart attack, a stroke, eye problems and kidney problems without you even knowing your blood pressure is high. That's why it's important to get your blood pressure checked, even if you don't think you have a problem. If your blood pressure is lower than 120/80, at least once every 2 years is usually fine. If it's higher, your doctor probably will want to check it more often.


Question: Why do people 50 and older need colon cancer screening?

Answer: Colon cancer screening: Colon cancer is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths in the U. S. When you turn 50, your chance of getting it goes up. So unless you're at above-average risk, your doctor will probably recommend screenings once you reach that half-century mark.


Question: What is hyperhidrosis?

Answer: Primary hyperhidrosis (also called focal hyperhidrosis) causes excessive sweating in the hands, underarms, face, and feet without any apparent reason. Secondary hyperhidrosis (also called generalized hyperhidrosis) causes excessive sweating all over the body or in a larger area of the body and can be caused by excessive heat as well as a medical condition or medication.


Question: What causes hyperhidrosis?

Answer: The causes of hyperhidrosis depend on the type of sweating occurring. Most times, excessive sweating is harmless. In some cases, doctors don't know why people sweat too much. In other cases, the causes of hyperhidrosis may be a medical condition that you don't want to miss.


Question: What is the BODE Index for emphysema?

Answer: The BODE Index This staging system measures how much emphysema impacts your daily life. It looks at four main areas: Body mass index ( B). This describes how much body fat you have compared to your height and weight. Airflow limitation ( O for obstruction). Your doctor can tell how damaged your lungs are by how well you do on pulmonary (lung) function tests.


Question: What are the methods that describe stages of emphysema?

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Question: Can rapid or irregular heartbeats be a heart failure system?

Answer: The heart beats faster to pump enough blood to the body. This causes a fast or irregular heartbeat.


Question: Can dizziness, fatigue, and weakness be a heart failure symptom?

Answer: Less blood to your major organs and muscles makes you feel tired and weak. Less blood to the brain can cause dizziness or confusion.


Question: Can fluid and water retention be a heart failure symptom?

Answer: Less blood to your kidneys causes fluid and water retention, resulting in swollen ankles, legs, and abdomen (called edema) and weight gain. Symptoms may cause an increased need to urinate during the night. Bloating in your stomach may cause a loss of appetite or nausea.


Question: What tests may be done to diagnose Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Your health care provider will examine your hands, wrists, and fingers. Diagnosis of Dupuytren's contracture typically involves feeling the palm areas to check for nodules and recording how many nodules are found. Your doctor will likely ask you to try to place your hands flat on a table. Tests may also be done to: See how well you can grasp items with your hands.


Question: Are men or women more likely to get Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Your chances of developing it increase as you get older.


Question: What is needle aponeurotomy for Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Instead of an open incision, it uses the sharp end of a needle to cut the thick bands under the skin, which may help you recover faster. However, it is not as effective in treating the more severe cases. As a whole there is less risk of complications, but there is a risk of nerve, blood vessel, or tendon damage. Needle aponeurotomy is even more effective when used in combination with corticosteroid injections.


Question: How does Dupuytren's contracture progress?

Answer: The first symptom for many patients is one or more lumps (nodules) under the skin in the palm of the hand. The lump may feel tender and sore at first, but this discomfort eventually goes away. The nodules cause tough bands of tissue to form under the skin in the palm. These inflexible bands cause the fingers to bend, or "curl," forward toward the wrist. As this curling gets worse, it becomes difficult, if not impossible, to straighten the fingers. The pinkie and ring fingers are most often affected, appearing clenched. Both hands are usually involved, although one may have worse symptoms than the other.


Question: What are the symptoms of Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Call your doctor for an appointment if: You have one or more lumps in your palm, whether or not it is painful. You have difficulty straightening your fingers. You have difficulty grasping objects. You cannot place your hand flat on a table or place your hand in your pocket.


Question: What problems could happen from surgery for Dupuytren's contracture?

Answer: Complications of Dupuytren's contracture surgery are rare but may include: Infection Injury to the nerves and blood vessels in the hand Permanent stiffness of the fingers You will have some hand swelling and discomfort after the procedure.


Question: Are sleep problems during pregnancy normal?

Answer: According to the National Sleep Foundation, the following are the most common sleep changes that may occur in each trimester: Frequent waking due to an increased need to go to the bathroom Disruptions in sleep as a result of physical and emotional stress associated with pregnancy Increased daytime sleepiness Sleep during the second trimester of pregnancy improves for many women, because nighttime urination becomes less of an issue as the growing fetus reduces pressure on the bladder by moving above it. Still, the quality of sleep may remain poor as a result of the growing baby and emotional stress associated with pregnancy.


Question: Can I take sleeping pills when I'm pregnant?

Answer: Prescription and over-the-counter medications: Ideally, all medications (including over-the-counter medications) should be avoided during pregnancy. Some drugs can hurt the developing baby. However, there are some medications that are considered safe to take during pregnancy and that might help you sleep better. Always talk to your doctor before taking any kinds of drugs. This includes over-the-counter drugs, herbs and dietary supplements.


Question: Will my doctor suggest diet alterations if I have type 1 diabetes as an adult?

Answer: He'll also work with you to come up with healthy, nutritious menu options that will help you keep your blood glucose under control.


Question: Who is most likely to get type 1 diabetes as an adult?

Answer: People of all races and ethnic groups can get type 1 diabetes, but it's most common among those of northern European descent. You may also be at higher risk for getting the disease if one of your parents or a brother or sister has it.


Question: What are the symptoms of type 1 diabetes?

Answer: If you have type 1 diabetes, you may get similar symptoms as your friends who have type 2. You may notice that you: Get extremely thirsty or hungry Need to pee often Feel unusually tired or weak Lose weight suddenly Get blurred vision or other changes in the way you see Get vaginal yeast infections Have breath that smells fruity Can't breathe well Sometimes, type 1 diabetes could even make you lose consciousness.


Question: What is a glycated hemoglobin test?

Answer: It measures your average blood glucose level for 2 to 3 months. If you have an A1c level of 6.5 or higher on two separate exams, you have diabetes.


Question: What is a random blood sugar test?

Answer: It checks your blood glucose at a random time of day. A level of 200 mg/d L or higher is a sign that you have diabetes.


Question: Will my doctor suggest exercise if I have type 1 diabetes as an adult?

Answer: Your doctor will probably encourage you to get regular exercise. It can help you stay at a healthy weight and keep your blood glucose levels within a normal range.


Question: How does type 1 diabetes affect the immune system?

Answer: What experts do know is that when you have type 1 diabetes, something goes wrong with your immune system -- the body's defense against germs. It destroys beta cells in your pancreas that are responsible for making a hormone called insulin. Insulin allows glucose -- or sugar -- to get into your cells, where it's turned into energy. But if you have type 1 diabetes, your body doesn't make insulin. Glucose builds up in your bloodstream and, over time, can cause serious health problems.


Question: What is a fasting blood sugar test?

Answer: Your doctor does this first thing in the morning, before you've eaten. You have diabetes if your level is 126 mg/d L or higher on two separate tests.


Question: What populations are most affected by type 1 diabetes as adults?

Answer: People of all races and ethnic groups can get type 1 diabetes, but it's most common among those of northern European descent. You may also be at higher risk for getting the disease if one of your parents or a brother or sister has it.


Question: How do you treat viral meningitis?

Answer: Antibiotics can't treat viral meningitis and, in most cases, the infection goes away on its own with time. Viral meningitis is usually much less severe than other types. Your teen may need only a few days in the hospital. When he's there, he'll get fluids through an IV to prevent dehydration, as well as painkillers.


Question: How do you treat bacterial meningitis?

Answer: If the spinal fluid tests show your teen has bacterial meningitis, he'll need to keep up with the antibiotics until the infection goes away, possibly for as long as 2 weeks. Because bacterial meningitis can spread easily to others, he'll probably stay in an isolated room for at least 48 hours. Meningitis can make the eyes sensitive to light, so your teen may prefer a darkened room. He'll get plenty of liquids and drugs to relieve headache and fever. To keep him from getting reinfected, doctors will look for a source of the infection, such as an infected sinus.


Question: Which medicines commonly cause allergies?

Answer: The most common one is to penicillin. Other antibiotics can also cause allergic reactions. Other possible culprits include: Sulfa drugs Barbiturates Anticonvulsants Iodine, which is found in many X-ray contrast dyes Your doctor will start by reviewing your medical history and symptoms.


Question: What are symptoms of a drug allergy?

Answer: In an allergic reaction, your body's release of histamine can cause symptoms like: Hives Skin rash Itchy skin or eyes Congestion Swelling in the mouth and throat A more severe reaction may include: Trouble breathing Blueness of the skin Dizziness Fainting Anxiety Confusion Rapid pulse Nausea Gut problems like diarrhea The most severe reaction is one that includes anaphylaxis, a serious, life-threatening response marked by swelling, hives, and lowered blood pressure. In some cases, a person goes into shock. If you think you're having anaphylaxis symptoms, give yourself a shot of epinephrine immediately and call 911.


Question: Are there drugs available to treat migraines?

Answer: Some medications can ease the pain and symptoms of a migraine headache. Other medications can help prevent the headaches. Talk to your doctor about which ones are right for you.


Question: What drugs stop migraines?

Answer: You take these drugs at the first sign of a migraine attack to stop them. They are called "abortive" drugs. They prevent common symptoms like pain, nausea, and sound and light sensitivity. Some of these should not be used during a migraine with aura, so follow your doctor's instructions.


Question: What drugs causes serotonin syndrome?

Answer: Headache Neck pain Warning: You should not take triptans together with SSRI or SNRI antidepressants. You may get a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. Check all your medications with your doctor.


Question: What should you do when taking drugs for migraine prevention?

Answer: While you're taking these drugs, write down how often you have headaches and how bad they are to help your doctor judge how well they are working. Most need days or weeks to take full effect.


Question: When do you stop taking drugs for migraine prevention?

Answer: Once your headaches are under control for 6 months or a year, it may be possible to taper off or stop these drugs. You may need to take the drugs for a longer time, though. Your doctor will advise you.


Question: How are migraine headaches treated?

Answer: Some medications can ease the pain and symptoms of a migraine headache. Other medications can help prevent the headaches. Talk to your doctor about which ones are right for you.


Question: Does carbon monoxide cause headaches?

Answer: Like a lot of people, you may think of it as something that comes out of your car's tailpipe or leaks out of your furnace. But carbon monoxide is also in tobacco products. If you're a smoker, you may have high levels in your blood and brain. Carbon monoxide can trigger headaches.


Question: How can nicotine cause headaches?

Answer: The substance nicotine is no longer linked to migraines. Nicotine is a chemical in tobacco products. It causes the blood vessels in your body to narrow. This reduces blood flow to your brain. Previous studies indicated that this reduced blood flow could trigger a migraine. However, migraines are complex, and reduced blood flow is no longer considered a migraine trigger. In addition, no controlled trials or studies have clearly linked nicotine to migraines, although people still report an association between headaches and tobacco (nicotine) exposure. Nicotine can make it harder for you to get rid of your headache once it starts. That's because the chemical affects your liver's ability to break down headache medicine. The result is that the medication you're counting on to give you pain relief won't work as well, just when you need it the most.


Question: Which type of oxygen therapy device for heart failure may be right for you?

Answer: The basic idea is that you have a source of oxygen that you breathe in through either a: Mask that goes over your mouth and nose Nasal cannula -- two small tubes that sit just inside your nose The oxygen itself may come as a liquid or a gas in a tank. Or you may get a machine called an oxygen concentrator. Which one is best for you depends on: How much oxygen you need How often you need it -- day, night, or both Costs and what your insurance covers As a gas or liquid, oxygen comes in metal tanks that need to be refilled once they run out.


Question: What are side effects of oxygen therapy for heart failure?

Answer: As long as you follow your doctor's directions, oxygen therapy is generally considered safe. You may get minor problems such as: Dry or bloody nose Headaches in the morning Tiredness Oxygen can lead to fires.


Question: How does oxygen therapy for heart failure work?

Answer: The basic idea is that you have a source of oxygen that you breathe in through either a: Mask that goes over your mouth and nose Nasal cannula -- two small tubes that sit just inside your nose The oxygen itself may come as a liquid or a gas in a tank.


Question: When would I need oxygen therapy for heart failure?

Answer: Your doctor will usually suggest oxygen therapy when heart failure causes very low levels of oxygen. But if your levels are closer to normal, it's more of a gray area. In this case, recent studies seem to show that oxygen therapy may be harmful because you get too much oxygen. More research is needed, so ask your doctor what you should get.


Question: What happens during a mammogram?

Answer: Most mammography technologists are women. A doctor specialized in interpreting imaging studies (radiologist) will interpret the X-rays. You will be asked to stand in front of an X-ray machine. The mammography technologist will place your breast between two radiographic breast supports. The supports will be pressed together, gently flattening the breast. Compression is necessary to obtain the clearest possible picture with the least amount of radiation. You may feel some discomfort or slight pain from this pressure, but it will only last for a few seconds while the X-ray is being taken. Your cooperation for these few seconds is important to get a clear picture. If you feel that the pressure on your breast is too great, tell the technologist performing the exam. To minimize discomfort during compression, you may want to consider scheduling your appointment seven to 10 days after the start of your period, when your breast are least likely to be tender. The breast will be imaged in several positions to enable the radiologist to see all breast tissue adequately. For a routine breast screening, two pictures are taken of each breast. This exam takes about 20 minutes. Many centers also do 3- D mammography. This is similar to regular mammograms but many more pictures of the breast are taken at various angles to produce a 3- D picture for the radiologist to check. After examining the digital images, the radiologist may ask the technologist to obtain additional images or a breast ultrasound for a more precise diagnosis. This is a routine measure.


Question: What is a mammogram?

Answer: Using a digital X-ray machine made especially for breast tissue, a technician compresses the breast and takes pictures from at least two different angles, creating a set of images for each of your breasts. This set of images is called a mammogram. Breast tissue appears white and opaque and fatty tissue appears darker and translucent. In a screening mammogram, the breast is X-rayed from top to bottom and from side to side. A diagnostic mammogram focuses in on a particular lump or area of abnormal tissue.


Question: Why should you get a mammogram?

Answer: Mammography can be your best defense against breast cancer because it can frequently detect the disease in its early stages, often before it can be felt during a breast exam. Research has clearly shown that mammography can increase breast cancer survival.


Question: Can medication cause erectile dysfunction?

Answer: If you think your medicine may be causing your problem, don't just stop taking it. Talk to your doctor. You may need to switch to something different, or consider taking an ED medication, too.


Question: How does your blood sugar level affect your diabetes treatment?

Answer: If they stay too high for too long, you're at risk for complications of diabetes, like eye problems or kidney disease. If your blood sugar is above where it should be, your doctor may add another drug to your treatment plan or increase your dose to get you to a healthy range.


Question: What health problems can affect the efficacy of  my diabetes drugs?

Answer: Some conditions you might have along with diabetes can affect how well your drugs control your blood sugar, including: Obesity High blood pressure High cholesterol Heart disease Kidney disease Sleep apnea or other sleep problems Depression Some medications that treat diabetes also may help you treat other health problems or lower your odds of having them.


Question: Are there multiple ways to control blood sugar for diabetes?

Answer: When you and your doctor are thinking about the best way to control your blood sugar, you've got a lot of options to choose from. Insulin and other medicines, including shots and pills, can help keep your levels in a healthy range.


Question: How can how long you've had diabetes affect your treatment?

Answer: If you've had the condition for more than 10 years, some diabetes pills may not help you. But if you've just been diagnosed, your doctor might not make insulin the first treatment you try. Also, your treatment plan may change over time, because some medications get less effective the longer you take them.


Question: How can your blood sugar levels affect your diabetes treatment?

Answer: If they stay too high for too long, you're at risk for complications of diabetes, like eye problems or kidney disease. If your blood sugar is above where it should be, your doctor may add another drug to your treatment plan or increase your dose to get you to a healthy range.


Question: What other conditions can affect your diabetes treatment?

Answer: Some conditions you might have along with diabetes can affect how well your drugs control your blood sugar, including: Obesity High blood pressure High cholesterol Heart disease Kidney disease Sleep apnea or other sleep problems Depression Some medications that treat diabetes also may help you treat other health problems or lower your odds of having them.


Question: How is alcohol withdrawal diagnosed?

Answer: Those that do may also have: Confusion Racing heart High blood pressure Fever Heavy sweating If the doctor thinks you might have it, he'll ask you questions about your drinking history and how recently you stopped. He'll want to know if you've ever gone through withdrawal before. He'll also discuss your symptoms. During an exam, he'll look for other medical conditions to see if they could be to blame.


Question: What are the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal?

Answer: They can range from mild to serious. What yours are depends on how much you drank and for how long. Mild symptoms usually show up as early as 6 hours after you put down your glass. They can include: Anxiety Shaky hands Headache Nausea Vomiting Insomnia Sweating More serious problems range from hallucinations about 12 to 24 hours after that last drink to seizures within the first 2 days after you stop.


Question: What causes alcohol withdrawal?

Answer: It slows down brain function and changes the way your nerves send messages back and forth. Over time, your central nervous system adjusts to having alcohol around all the time. Your body works hard to keep your brain in a more awake state and to keep your nerves talking to one another. When the alcohol level suddenly drops, your brain stays in this keyed up state. That's what causes withdrawal.


Question: Who should you talk to if you or your loved one has clinical depression and a life-threatening illness?

Answer: If you see these signs in a loved one, or find that you're experiencing them yourself, it's important to talk with your doctor or someone else on your care team about them. Get immediate medical help if you or a loved one is having thoughts of suicide. Clinical depression in someone who is dying can be treated.