Question: What are risks of taking pycnogenol?

Answer: It comes from the bark of a European pine tree. Pycnogenol is thought to be an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage. The active ingredients in pycnogenol can also be extracted from other sources, including peanut skin, grape seed, and witch hazel bark. Pycnogenol may stimulate the immune system. So it may not be safe for people with immune disorders, such as: Lupus Multiple sclerosis ( MS) Rheumatoid arthritis It's not known if pycnogenol is safe for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.


Question: Does pycnogenol affect medicines?

Answer: Tell your doctor about any supplements you're taking, even if they're natural. Pycnogenol may stimulate the immune system.


Question: What are optimal doses of pycnogenol?

Answer: Optimal doses of pycnogenol have not been set for any condition. If you take any medications regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using pycnogenol supplements.


Question: What are symptoms of eczema?

Answer: Sometimes the itching will start before the rash appears, but when it does, the rash most commonly appears on the face, back of the knees, wrists, hands, or feet. It may also affect other areas as well. Affected areas usually appear very dry, thickened, or scaly. In fair-skinned people, these areas may initially appear reddish and then turn brown. Among darker-skinned people, eczema can affect pigmentation, making the affected area lighter or darker. The goal of treatment for eczema is to relieve and prevent itching, which can lead to infection.


Question: What can cause eczema?

Answer: For others, feeling too hot or too cold, exposure to certain household products like soap or detergent, or coming into contact with animal dander may cause an outbreak. Upper respiratory infections or colds may also be triggers. Stress may cause the condition to worsen. The drugs, Elidel and Protopic, are skin creams that work by altering the immune system response to prevent flare-ups.


Question: What causes eczema?

Answer: The exact cause of eczema is unknown, but it's thought to be linked to an overactive response by the body's immune system to an irritant. The drugs, Elidel and Protopic, are skin creams that work by altering the immune system response to prevent flare-ups.


Question: How can you prevent eczema outbreaks?

Answer: Stress may cause the condition to worsen. Avoid sudden changes in temperature or humidity. Avoid sweating or overheating. Be aware of any foods that may cause an outbreak and avoid those foods.


Question: Are limbal relaxing incision (LRI) and astigmatic keratotomy eye surgery safe?

Answer: Astigmatic keratotomy eye surgery -- or AK -- and the more commonly performed limbal relaxing incision, or LRI, surgery are safe and effective. Limbal relaxing incision eye surgery is a safe and effective way to correct astigmatism and it's often used in conjunction with other vision correction procedures.


Question: Which hormone drugs treat breast cancer?

Answer: There are other hormone therapy drugs used to treat breast cancer, too. Most, such as fulvestrant ( Faslodex) and toremifene ( Fareston), are used to treat metastatic breast cancer. Toremifene, like tamoxifen, blocks certain effects of estrogen and is used as a treatment for advanced breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Studies show that giving women an LHRH agonist alone or with tamoxifen is at least as effective as the chemotherapy combination used in hormone-sensitive, early breast cancer and in metastatic breast cancer of premenopausal women.


Question: How long does it take for an inflamed iris to heal?

Answer: The iris is made up of muscular fibers that control the amount of light entering the pupil so that you can see clearly. The length of treatment depends on the severity of disease and how well the eye improves with the treatment. Traumatic iritis usually goes away within one to two weeks. Nontraumatic iritis may take weeks, and occasionally months, to resolve. Certain cases of iritis (those associated with systemic diseases, such as sarcoidosis or ankylosing spondylitis) may be chronic or recurrent.


Question: How do you treat an inflamed iris (iritis)?

Answer: Treatment of iritis includes the use of medication in the form of eye drops or pills to allow for healing and to help decrease eye pain. Treatment of iritis includes the use of a drug (in the form of eyedrops) to dilate (widen) the pupil and to prevent spasm of the iris muscles so that the inflamed iris can rest. Steroid eyedrops help decrease the inflammation of the iris. If the eye does not improve within a week, your eye doctor may consider prescribing steroid pills or steroid injections around the eye.


Question: What are the side effects of radiation for treating head and neck cancer?

Answer: Your doctor might zap the cancer with a laser or take out the tumor and some of the healthy tissue around it. Some of the side effects include: Pain or trouble swallowing Changes in your voice Loss of appetite Red or irritated skin Thick spit Feeling sick to your stomach Being tired Sore throat Sores in your mouth Chemotherapy (â Chemoâ).


Question: What are general symptoms of head and neck cancer?

Answer: There are five main types of head and neck cancer. The following are symptoms of salivary gland cancer: Swelling under your chin Swelling around your jawbone Numb or paralyzed face muscles Pain in your face, chin, or neck that doesn't go away Each kind of head and neck cancer has specific symptoms, but there are some general ones, too. They are: A lump in your neck Growths or sores in your mouth (even if they don't hurt) Blood in your spit or phlegm Changes in your skin that may signal skin cancer The biggest cause of head and neck cancers is tobacco.


Question: What is oral cavity cancer?

Answer: There are five main types of head and neck cancer. This type of cancer affects your lips and the inside of your mouth. This includes: Your gums The insides of your cheeks Under your tongue The top of the inside of your mouth (hard palate) The front two-thirds of your tongue The symptoms of oral cancer are: Red or white patches in your mouth, including your gums and tongue Swelling in your jaw, including swelling that makes false teeth fit badly Bleeding or pain in your mouth This is another name for your throat.


Question: What are symptoms of salivary gland cancer?

Answer: There are five main types of head and neck cancer. They're named for the specific part of your head or neck they affect. The following are symptoms of salivary gland cancer: Swelling under your chin Swelling around your jawbone Numb or paralyzed face muscles Pain in your face, chin, or neck that doesn't go away Each kind of head and neck cancer has specific symptoms, but there are some general ones, too.


Question: What are signs of larynx cancer?

Answer: Head and neck cancer is a group of cancers that starts in or near your throat, voice box, nose, sinuses, or mouth. That's the little piece of flesh that hangs in the back of your throat. It caps over your larynx when you eat or drink to keep food and liquid from getting in (âgoing down the wrong pipeâ). Signs of larynx cancer include: Painful swallowing Ear pain Changes in your voice Your nasal cavity is the space inside your nose.


Question: What are side effects of radiation treatment for head and neck cancer?

Answer: Your doctor might zap the cancer with a laser or take out the tumor and some of the healthy tissue around it. Some of the side effects include: Pain or trouble swallowing Changes in your voice Loss of appetite Red or irritated skin Thick spit Feeling sick to your stomach Being tired Sore throat Sores in your mouth Chemotherapy (â Chemoâ).


Question: Who should get the hepatitis A vaccine?

Answer: The CDC recommends the vaccine for kids between 12 and 23 months old and certain groups of older children who were never vaccinated Hepatitis A is rarely life-threatening in children, but kids can spread hepatitis A to elderly or ill relatives in whom the disease is much more serious. If your child is over 13, the two doses should be at least 4 weeks apart.


Question: How does high blood pressure affect arterial plaque?

Answer: It also hastens the hardening of clogged arteries. If plaque builds up in the blood vessels that carry blood to your legs, it can reduce the amount of oxygen delivered.


Question: What are clogged arteries?

Answer: Clogged arteries result from a buildup of a substance called plaque on the inner walls of the arteries. Arterial plaque can reduce blood flow or, in some instances, block it altogether. !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(); }); } Clogged arteries greatly increase the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, and even death.


Question: What is your sacroiliac joint?

Answer: You may not have ever known you had a sacroiliac joint, much less where it is. Most joints, like the knee and hip, have a wide range of movement, but the sacroiliac rotates and tilts only slightly. That lets it do its main job: to stabilize and support your pelvis, help to transmit the weight of your upper body to your legs, and act as a "shock absorber" when you walk or run.


Question: What are the different types of HPV?

Answer: Many people don't have any symptoms, and the infection might go away on its own. HPV lives in thin, flat cells called epithelial cells. These are found on the skin's surface. They’re also found on the surface of the vagina, anus, vulva, cervix and head of the penis. They’re also found inside the mouth and throat. About 60 of the 100 HPV types cause warts on areas like the hands or feet. The other 40 or so enter the body during sexual contact. They’re drawn to the body's mucus membranes, such as the moist layers around the anus and genitals. The vaccines focus on some of the higher-risk types of HPV.


Question: What should you know about HPV?

Answer: Many people don't have any symptoms, and the infection might go away on its own. But some types of HPV can lead to cervical cancer or cancer of the anus or penis. !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(); }); } HPV isn’t just one virus. There are more than 100 kinds, and some are riskier than others. It spreads through skin-to-skin contact.


Question: How can social support help with living with cancer?

Answer: Exercise can help control fatigue, muscle tension, and anxiety in those with cancer. Observational studies have shown that cancer is more common in some people with certain dietary habits -- such as colorectal cancer in people who have diets rich in meat products.


Question: How can nutrition help with cancer prevention?

Answer: So far, data has not supported the use of any vitamins or supplements to decrease the risk of cancer. In fact, studies show some supplements may increase cancer risk, such as lung cancer risk in smokers taking beta carotene and prostate cancer risk in men taking high doses of vitamin E. No diet has been shown to slow, reverse, or cure cancer. In some cases, a strong support network can even affect the length of survival of cancer patients; studies have shown that men who experience limited social contact have a shorter survival time, while women with good social support survive longer from their cancers.


Question: How can social support and spirituality help with cancer?

Answer: The goal is to relieve pain and other symptoms, maintain general health, improve quality of life, and provide emotional, psychological, and logistical support to patients and their families. Exercise can help control fatigue, muscle tension, and anxiety in those with cancer. Patients who pursue these types of therapies tend to feel less lonely, less anxious about the future, and more optimistic about recovery. Observational studies have shown that cancer is more common in some people with certain dietary habits -- such as colorectal cancer in people who have diets rich in meat products.


Question: How can religion help with living with cancer?

Answer: The goal is to relieve pain and other symptoms, maintain general health, improve quality of life, and provide emotional, psychological, and logistical support to patients and their families. Patients who pursue these types of therapies tend to feel less lonely, less anxious about the future, and more optimistic about recovery.


Question: What are home remedies for nerve pain?

Answer: Regular exercise may expand blood vessels in the feet over time, nourishing damaged nerves back to health. Start with a daily walk and gradually build up pace and distance. Increase the odds by limiting caffeine intake in the afternoon, keeping a consistent bedtime, and reserving the bedroom for sleep. Ask your doctor or a trusted friend for a referral to a reputable professional who provides guided imagery, meditation, biofeedback, or hypnosis.


Question: What are the symptoms of depression related to multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: You might also feel hopeless or worthless. Some other symptoms you may have are: Trouble concentrating Uncontrollable crying Hard time making decisions Urge to sleep a lot Trouble falling or staying asleep at night Aches and pains you can't explain Upset stomach and digestive problems Low sex drive or other sexual problems Headache Change in appetite that causes weight loss or gain Some people who are depressed may have thoughts of death or suicide, or even attempt suicide. If you or someone you know has any of these signs, contact a mental health professional or go to the emergency room right away: Talk about killing yourself Always talk or think about death Make comments about being hopeless, helpless, or worthless Say things like, " It would be better if I weren't here" or " I want out" Depression (deep sadness, loss of interest, trouble sleeping and eating) that gets worse Sudden switch from being very sad to being very calm or acting happy Take risks that could be deadly, like driving through red lights Lose interest in things you used to care about Put affairs in order or change a will


Question: What are the symptoms of depression?

Answer: You might also feel hopeless or worthless. Some other symptoms you may have are: Trouble concentrating Uncontrollable crying Hard time making decisions Urge to sleep a lot Trouble falling or staying asleep at night Aches and pains you can't explain Upset stomach and digestive problems Low sex drive or other sexual problems Headache Change in appetite that causes weight loss or gain Some people who are depressed may have thoughts of death or suicide, or even attempt suicide. If you or someone you know has any of these signs, contact a mental health professional or go to the emergency room right away: Talk about killing yourself Always talk or think about death Make comments about being hopeless, helpless, or worthless Say things like, " It would be better if I weren't here" or " I want out" Depression (deep sadness, loss of interest, trouble sleeping and eating) that gets worse Sudden switch from being very sad to being very calm or acting happy Take risks that could be deadly, like driving through red lights Lose interest in things you used to care about Put affairs in order or change a will


Question: Where can I get help for depression?

Answer: He can talk with you about how you feel and make sure that medicines you take or another health problem aren't causing your symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe treatment or refer you to a mental health care professional, who can look at your symptoms and recommend ways to treat them. But once you connect with a doctor, there are many ways to help you get better.


Question: Can you get depression from multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: If you notice you're getting depressed, let your doctor know. He'll help you get the support and treatment you need to get back on track. You might also feel hopeless or worthless.


Question: Where can you get help for depression related to multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: He can talk with you about how you feel and make sure that medicines you take or another health problem aren't causing your symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe treatment or refer you to a mental health care professional, who can look at your symptoms and recommend ways to treat them. But once you connect with a doctor, there are many ways to help you get better.


Question: What is vestibular schwannoma?

Answer: Although schwannomas do not spread, they can grow large enough to press down on important structures in the brain (including the brain stem). Symptoms of schwannomas can include: A painless or painful growth or swelling on the face Hearing loss or ringing in the ear (vestibular schwannoma) Loss of coordination and balance (vestibular schwannoma) Numbness, weakness, or paralysis in the face Symptoms of neurofibrosarcomas can include: Swelling or a lump in the arms or legs Pain or soreness Difficulty using the arms, legs, feet, or hands Doctors diagnose nerve sheath tumors by doing a physical and neurological (brain and nervous system) examination.


Question: What are schwannomas and neurofibrosarcomas?

Answer: Neurofibrosarcomas are malignant tumors. These are known as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, or neurofibrosarcomas. With neurofibrosarcomas, the doctor will remove the tumor and the tissue around it.


Question: How are neurofibrosarcomas treated?

Answer: The most common treatment for neurofibrosarcomas is to remove them with surgery. Surgeons will try to remove the tumor without damaging too much of the affected arm or leg (called limb-salvage or limb-sparing surgery), but if the tumor can't be removed, the arm or leg might need to be amputated. Radiation and chemotherapy may be done before surgery to shrink the tumor so it can be removed more easily, or after surgery to kill any cancer cells that are left behind.


Question: What are neurofibrosarcomas and how common are they?

Answer: Neurofibrosarcomas are malignant tumors. These are known as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, or neurofibrosarcomas. Because neurofibrosarcoma originates in nerves, it is considered part of a group of cancers called soft tissue sarcomas. Soft tissue sarcomas are uncommon. They make up less than 1% of all cancers diagnosed each year. Neurofibrosarcomas account for only a small number of these soft sarcomas.


Question: Where is neurofibrosarcoma typically found?

Answer: However, it also can affect the lower back, head, or neck. Neurofibrosarcomas can spread along the nerves. They typically don't reach other organs, although they can spread to the lungs. Symptoms of schwannomas can include: A painless or painful growth or swelling on the face Hearing loss or ringing in the ear (vestibular schwannoma) Loss of coordination and balance (vestibular schwannoma) Numbness, weakness, or paralysis in the face Symptoms of neurofibrosarcomas can include: Swelling or a lump in the arms or legs Pain or soreness Difficulty using the arms, legs, feet, or hands Doctors diagnose nerve sheath tumors by doing a physical and neurological (brain and nervous system) examination.


Question: What causes nerve sheath tumors?

Answer: Schwannomas are most often nonmalignant tumors. These are known as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, or neurofibrosarcomas. However, nerve sheath tumors are more common in people who have the inherited disorder, neurofibromatosis type 1 (previously known as von Recklinghausen disease). Having a genetic disorder called schwannomatosis also can increase the risk for schwannomas. A small percentage of neurofibrosarcomas are related to past radiation exposure.


Question: Are nerve sheath tumors malignant?

Answer: Neurofibrosarcomas are malignant tumors. These are known as malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, or neurofibrosarcomas.


Question: What should I do when my baby cries?

Answer: Coping with baby's cries: First, troubleshoot. Is baby hungry? In pain from a too-tight diaper, pinching snap, or a fine hair wrapped tightly around a finger or toe? If baby's full, clean, comfortable, and without a fever, try soothing him by swaddling, walking and rocking, and turning on a calming sound like the vacuum or a white noise machine. Offer a pacifier or a finger to suck. Although "crying it out" as a sleep training tactic is not recommended for newborns, if you're about to start crying hysterically, it's OK to put baby down in a safe space for a few minutes to give yourself a break.


Question: When is surgery needed to treat ulcers?

Answer: For recurrent, severe cases that do not respond to medication, surgery may be necessary. Surgical treatment of peptic ulcers is reserved for ulcer disease unresponsive to medical management or emergency treatment of complications, such as bleeding. If your ulcer is hemorrhaging, the surgeon will identify the source of the bleeding (usually a small artery at the base of the ulcer) and repair it. Perforated ulcers -- holes in the entire stomach or duodenal wall -- must be surgically closed. However, you should have an in-depth discussion with your doctor as there are many potential complications associated with the procedures, including ulcer recurrence, liver complications, and ''dumping syndrome,'' which causes chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, and/or sweating after eating.


Question: What does a peak flow meter do?

Answer: A gadget called a peak flow meter lets you do that. If you have asthma, the meter can help you: Track how well your asthma is under control Judge how much your treatment helps Spot a flare-up before it happens so you can act to avoid it Help you decide if you need to call your doctor or go to the emergency room You may also need a home test if: Your asthma wakes you up at night.


Question: How do you treat chlamydia?

Answer: With treatment, the infection should clear up in about a week or two. It is important to finish all of your antibiotics even if you feel better. If you are told you have chlamydia or any other sexually transmitted disease and receive treatment, you should notify all of your recent sex partners so that they can see a doctor and be treated.


Question: What is chlamydia?

Answer: He or she will probably use a swab to take a sample from the urethra in men or from the cervix in women and then send the specimen to a laboratory to be analyzed. Because chlamydia often occurs without symptoms, people who are infected may unknowingly infect their sex partners.


Question: Can symptoms of genital herpes be treated?

Answer: But it can also be a cause of genital herpes. Treatment can also reduce the risk of infecting others. Medication taken on a daily basis to suppress the virus can reduce the number of outbreaks and reduce the risk of infecting others. For most people, genital herpes is not a serious threat to their health. If you have any reason to believe you may have an HSV infection as the result of a sexual encounter -- either genital or oral -- contact your health care provider.


Question: What causes symptoms of genital herpes to come back?

Answer: From time to time, the virus may become active. Symptom triggers can include: Fatigue Illness Sexual intercourse Menstruation Stress Surgery Trauma There are things you can do to relieve the discomfort and severity of the symptoms during an outbreak.


Question: What can you do to prevent spreading genital herpes?

Answer: Symptom triggers can include: Fatigue Illness Sexual intercourse Menstruation Stress Surgery Trauma There are things you can do to relieve the discomfort and severity of the symptoms during an outbreak. Avoid oral sex when either partner has oral or genital sores. Don't have genital or anal contact when any sores are present. Wash your hands with soap and water after touching infected areas. Don't wet your contact lenses with saliva.


Question: What are some tips for exercising if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Take breaks. For instance, walk in a park or at the mall where you know there are plenty of benches. Find a walking buddy and promise to walk regularly. Your buddy could be your partner or a neighbor -- or even your dog. Try to walk at the same time every day -- maybe at lunch or after work. You'll be more likely to stick with it. For incentive, set aside a few favorite shows to watch only when you walk. Walk wherever you are. Skip the drive-through at the bank and walk inside.


Question: Does walking help treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: It eases RA pain and strengthens the muscles that support your joints. It can boost your mood, help you sleep better, and make you fit enough to keep doing the things you love to do. It lowers your blood pressure and could help you live longer, too. This is the only crucial expense of walking.


Question: Should I watch TV while I walk if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: If you know another person or a pet is counting on you, you're more likely to keep on track. For incentive, set aside a few favorite shows to watch only when you walk.


Question: Who uses PCSK9 inhibitors for lowering "bad" (LDL) cholesterol?

Answer: Examples include: Fenofibrate Gemfibrozil ( Lopid) What they are: These drugs are used in people who can't manage their cholesterol through lifestyle and statin treatments. You get them as a shot every 2 weeks. Examples: Alirocumab ( Praluent) Evolocumab ( Repatha) Side effects: Because these drugs are newer, it will take more time to get to know their side effects.


Question: How is hypokalemia diagnosed?

Answer: You will need a blood test for your doctor to find out if you have hypokalemia. He will ask you about your health history. You may take a urine test so your doctor can find out if you're losing potassium when you pee. Since low potassium sometimes can affect your blood pressure, your doctor will check that, too. He also may want to do an electrocardiogram ( EKG) if he thinks you may have arrhythmia. This is one of the more serious side effects, and might change the way your doctor chooses to treat the problem.


Question: What are more common causes of hypokalemia (low levels of potassium in the blood)?

Answer: If you have hypokalemia, that means you have low levels of potassium in your blood. It may be because too much potassium is leaving through your digestive tract. It's usually a symptom of another problem. Most commonly, you get hypokalemia when: You vomit a lot You have diarrhea Your kidneys or adrenal glands don't work well You take medication that makes you pee (water pills or diuretics) It's possible, but rare, to get hypokalemia from having too little potassium in your diet.


Question: What are symptoms of hypokalemia?

Answer: If your problem is temporary, or you're only slightly hypokalemic, you might not feel any symptoms. Once your potassium levels fall below a certain level, you might experience: Weakness Fatigue Muscle cramps or twitching Constipation Arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythms) Hypokalemia can affect your kidneys. You may have to go to the bathroom more often. You may also feel thirsty. In some cases it's necessary to get your potassium injected by IV.


Question: How does Alzheimer's disease affect a person's body?

Answer: But the symptoms can be physical as well as mental. It can change the way you walk, talk, and how your body works. Some people have physical problems before serious memory loss. In one study, people who walked slowly and had poor balance were more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in the following 6 years. Most people with Alzheimer's disease die from pneumonia, another infection, or a heart attack.


Question: What are challenges in caring for someone with Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: Some of the changes you might experience are: Loss of balance or coordination Stiff muscles Feet that shuffle or drag when you walk Trouble standing or sitting up in a chair Weak muscles and fatigue When and how much you sleep Trouble controlling your bladder or bowels Seizures and uncontrollable twitches Over time, most people with Alzheimer's lose the ability to take care of themselves. You may need help with basic things such as brushing your teeth, washing your hair and body, and changing your clothes. It might be hard to have a meaningful conversation. In the later stages, you might lose your ability to speak. At some point, you may need to move to a residential care facility to get the care you need.


Question: What causes Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: These proteins form large clumps, called tangles and plaques. They get in the way of normal brain function and kill healthy cells. As the disease gets worse, the plaques and clusters also appear in the parts of the brain in charge of bodily behaviors.


Question: When do you get hysteroscopy?

Answer: If you're awake, your doctor will give you medicine to help you relax. This will give her a clear view of its lining and the opening of your fallopian tubes through the hysteroscope.


Question: What causes corneal ulcers?

Answer: Viral infections are also possible causes of corneal ulcers. Tiny tears to the cornea may also cause corneal ulcers. These tears can come from direct trauma; scratches; or particles, such as sand, glass, or small pieces of steel. Disorders that cause dry eyes can leave your eye without the germ-fighting protection of tears and cause ulcers. Disorders that affect the eyelid and prevent your eye from closing completely, such as Bell's palsy, can dry your cornea and make it more vulnerable to ulcers. Chemical burns or other caustic (damaging) solution splashes can injure the cornea.


Question: What medications are used to treat corneal ulcers?

Answer: Bacterial infections cause corneal ulcers and are common in people who wear contact lenses. Pain can also be controlled with special eyedrops that keep your pupil dilated. If the ulcer cannot be controlled with medications or if it threatens to perforate the cornea, you may require an emergency surgical procedure known as corneal transplant. If you do not need hospitalization, your ophthalmologist will prescribe eyedrops and pain medications for you to take regularly at home.


Question: What are the symptoms of mastitis?

Answer: The catchall name for an infection of the breast tissue is mastitis. Mastitis can make you feel like you have the flu, but it can be cured a lot quicker. Just like any other infection, the tissue around the infected area becomes inflamed to keep it from spreading to other parts of the body. You may also have discharge from your nipple or feel a hard lump in your breast.


Question: What is mastitis?

Answer: If you're not, it's called periductal mastitis. Mastitis can make you feel like you have the flu, but it can be cured a lot quicker. Just like any other infection, the tissue around the infected area becomes inflamed to keep it from spreading to other parts of the body.


Question: How is mastitis treated?

Answer: If you're not, it's called periductal mastitis. Mastitis can make you feel like you have the flu, but it can be cured a lot quicker. As many as 1 in 10 breastfeeding women in the U. S. get it. Drink lots of water, wear loose bras, and rest as much as possible. Your doctor may suggest ibuprofen, or something like it, to take care of the fever and pain. It's important to keep breastfeeding and move that milk in and out of the ducts. Even though it might be painful, it won't harm your baby.


Question: What results should I expect from a herpes test?

Answer: You get genital herpes by having sex -- vaginal, oral, or anal -- with someone who already has it. A ânegativeâ viral culture or PCR result could mean you don't have genital herpes. You don't need to do anything to prepare for these tests. A small amount of blood is sent to a lab that then checks it for herpes âantibodies.â Those are something your body makes to fight the virus. You might get a blood test if you think you have been exposed but you don't have any symptoms.


Question: What are tests that a doctor administers to check for herpes?

Answer: You get genital herpes by having sex -- vaginal, oral, or anal -- with someone who already has it. To check for herpes, your doctor usually does a physical exam and then likely orders one of these tests: Viral culture Polymerase chain reaction ( PCR) test Blood test If you get a âpositiveâ result from the viral culture or PCR tests, it likely means you have herpes.


Question: What happens during a blood test for herpes?

Answer: For this test, your doctor scrapes or swabs one of your sores to take a sample. A lab then checks the sample for the herpes virus. You might get a blood test if you think you have been exposed but you don't have any symptoms. Labs may use different types of blood tests. With some you can get results the same day, but others may take up to 3 weeks.


Question: What is a genital herpes, and how do I get infected with it?

Answer: Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease. It's caused by two different viruses called herpes simplex type 1 ( HSV-1) and herpes simplex type 2 ( HSV-2). You get genital herpes by having sex -- vaginal, oral, or anal -- with someone who already has it. Talk to your doctor about getting tested. You might get a blood test if you think you have been exposed but you don't have any symptoms.


Question: What are the signs and symptoms of genital herpes?

Answer: You get genital herpes by having sex -- vaginal, oral, or anal -- with someone who already has it. If symptoms do show up, you might first feel tingling or burning near your genitals. You might then get blisters around your genitals, anus, thighs, or buttocks. They usually won't leave any scars. You might get a blood test if you think you have been exposed but you don't have any symptoms. With some you can get results the same day, but others may take up to 3 weeks.


Question: What happens during a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for herpes?

Answer: For this test, your doctor scrapes or swabs one of your sores to take a sample. A lab then checks the sample for the herpes virus. This test is best used within 48 hours of when you first see symptoms. You're more likely to get this test if you have symptoms but it's been longer than 48 hours since they showed up.


Question: What is tyramine?

Answer: Learning a few new words may help you better understand and describe your symptoms. In some cases, people can become comatose during the migraine.


Question: What are the typical symptoms of an aura?

Answer: Sensory: numbness, tingling, or pins-and-needles feeling in the body. Some people may have only one of these symptoms of an aura. Other people may experience one after another during a migraine attack.


Question: How do auras relate to migraines?

Answer: In one study that asked people with basilar migraine about their symptoms, 5% had ataxia. A typical aura has symptoms that may be: Visual changes such as flickering lights, spots or lines, loss of vision. Sensory: numbness, tingling, or pins-and-needles feeling in the body. Speech: difficulty speaking or understanding words. The symptoms develop gradually, last no longer than one hour, and are completely reversible. Some people may have only one of these symptoms of an aura. Other people may experience one after another during a migraine attack.


Question: What vaccines should adults get?

Answer: They help fend off common ailments like the flu or a cold, and protect you against major illnesses like cancer or heart disease. Update your tetanus vaccine once every 10 years. If you have a high-risk job (like hospital worker) get vaccines for hepatitis A and B. Also get one if you're traveling to countries with high rates of meningococcal disease.


Question: How can stress in your life affect your immune system?

Answer: Relaxation techniques, daily exercise, and stress-management techniques can all help. It helps keep threats out of your body -- and zaps any that do get in.


Question: What are the symptoms of emphysema?

Answer: As you get older, your lungs slowly lose function -- even if you don't smoke. In addition to shortness of breath, you may also have: Wheezing A cough that won't go away Chest tightness or pain Many times, smoking causes a persistent cough.


Question: How can genital herpes be avoided while pregnant?

Answer: Pregnant women with genital herpes should be careful -- but not overly worried -- about passing the virus on to the baby. Unless you know for sure that your partner is herpes free, avoid sex altogether during the third trimester. If your partner gets cold sores (oral herpes), he or she should not perform oral sex on you during this time. Some doctors think all women should be tested for herpes when they get pregnant, especially if their sex partners have herpes. Ask your doctor if you or your partner should be tested.


Question: How can you find a family therapist?

Answer: You may be able to find the list online. Check the website of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy and search for a marriage and family therapist near you. Search the Internet for a family therapist in your area. To see if a family therapist is a good fit for you, ask her these questions: Are you trained in family therapy? Do you take my health insurance?


Question: What is family therapy?

Answer: She can help you find new ways to manage struggles, conflicts, and challenges. Your therapist will help family members communicate better, solve problems, and find new ways to work together. Family therapy can't always make a problem go away.


Question: How can you tell if the family therapist is a good fit for you?

Answer: How often you meet with a family therapist and how many sessions you'll need will depend on the specific issues you focus on in therapy. See if friends have a family therapist to recommend. What are your hours? How long does each session last? How many sessions do you think we'll need? Do you take my health insurance? How much does each session cost? Do I need to pay up front, or do I pay per session?


Question: Should you call the doctor if your child gets a heat rash?

Answer: Heat rash in young children can look uncomfortable, but it's usually not serious. The rash is red or purple or looks like bruises. The child has a fever.


Question: How does fibromyalgia affect pregnancy?

Answer: Managing fibromyalgia during pregnancy is possible. Pregnant women with fibromyalgia may experience significant pain, fatigue, and psychological stress, especially in the first three months. With pregnancy, there are changes in the levels of estrogen, progesterone, and other hormones. For women who ache all over because of fibromyalgia during pregnancy, acetaminophen ( Tylenol and others) is often recommended.


Question: Are fibromyalgia medications safe during pregnancy?

Answer: There are few studies on fibromyalgia in pregnant women. Also, fibromyalgia symptoms seemed to be exacerbated during pregnancy. However, be sure you talk with your doctor before you stop any medicines.


Question: How are fibromyalgia and pregnancy connected?

Answer: As a result, they may be undertreated. In addition, the added stress of having a baby may cause fibromyalgia symptoms to flare, making you feel much worse. Is it any wonder that fibromyalgia symptoms are often misdiagnosed and thought to be a normal part of pregnancy? Learn all you can about fibromyalgia and pregnancy before you get pregnant.


Question: What language problems accompany an aura?

Answer: It may have a complicated shape. Symptoms may include: Trouble expressing thoughts when you speak or write Trouble understanding spoken or written words Confusion Trouble concentrating The attack portion of a migraine can last from a few hours to several days.


Question: What are the phases of migraines?

Answer: They tend to move through several stages: Prodromal phase (before the migraine) Aura phase Attack phase Postdromal phase (after the migraine) Hours before the migraine begins -- and sometimes even the day before -- many people may feel: Either unusually energetic and excitable or depressed Irritable Thirsty Cravings for specific foods Sleepy, with a lot of yawning The need to pee more often In some cases, these symptoms before the headache can help doctors diagnose the problem as a migraine. Symptoms may include: Trouble expressing thoughts when you speak or write Trouble understanding spoken or written words Confusion Trouble concentrating The attack portion of a migraine can last from a few hours to several days.


Question: What is the aura stage of a migraine headache?

Answer: About 1 in 3 to 1 in 4 people with migraines get an "aura" that begins before the headache or starts along with it. It may not happen with every headache, though. Skin sensations.


Question: How can I take care of myself when I have a drug allergy?

Answer: The slow increase may get your body more used to the drug and lower your risk of an allergic reaction. Make sure that all of your doctors, dentists, and pharmacists know about your drug allergy. Get a medical ID bracelet or necklace with your drug allergy on it. Always wear it. Know what to do if you have an allergic reaction . If your doctor prescribes medication for emergencies, like an Epi Pen, make sure you always carry two and you know how to use it.


Question: What affects the prevalence of Lyme disease?

Answer: In some cases, symptoms can appear months after the bite. But the deer population has rebounded as reforestation took place over several decades, meaning the tick population has risen and expanded as well. Deer and white-footed mice, which transmit Lyme disease to ticks that bite them, are moving closer to humans as their habitats disappear, says Taege. Another reason: Warmer weather and mild winters may bring more people outside, raising their chances of being bitten, particularly in Lyme-prone areas, Taege says. â We've seen an expansion [of ticks] in areas in which the vectors live, and we've slowly seen more Lyme disease.â That doesn't mean you should be afraid of outdoor activities, as long as you take precautions to avoid tick bites, Aucott says.


Question: How prevalent is Lyme disease?

Answer: The CDC estimates there are more than 300,000 cases of Lyme infection in the U. S. each year -- or 10 times as many as what is reported. Infection is more common in males up to age 15 and between the ages of 40 and 60, says Taege. â These are people who are more likely to play outside, and go camping, hunting, and hiking,â he says.


Question: What areas have the most cases of Lyme disease?

Answer: Cases of Lyme disease -- traditionally more prevalent in the Northeast -- have now been found in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, a new study from Quest Diagnostics found. The CDC says 95% of confirmed cases in 2016 were in 14 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin. In the Southern U. S., which is more prone to hot weather, ticks tend to stay under leaf litter and don't come up higher to feed much, Aucott says -- âticks don't like to dry out.â This means Southern ticks don't transmit Lyme as frequently because they don't tend to feed on humans.


Question: What symptoms does Lyme disease cause?

Answer: â Ten percent of people don't get better after antibiotics,â Aucott says. Scientists point to a variety of causes for the spread of Lyme infection.


Question: What are the early signs and symptoms of Lyme disease?

Answer: Early signs and symptoms include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, and swollen lymph nodes -- all common in the flu. In up to 80% of Lyme infections, a rash is one of the first symptoms, Aucott says. Heart palpitation or an irregular heartbeat Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord Shooting pains, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet About 20% to 30% of Lyme rashes have a âbull's-eyeâ appearance -- concentric circles around a center point -- but most are round and uniformly red and at least 5 centimeters (about 2 inches) across, Aucott says. â Most are just red,â he says. â They do not have the classic ring within a ring like the Target logo.â The rash expands gradually over a period of days and can grow to about 12 inches across, the CDC says. It may feel warm to the touch, but it rarely itches or is painful, and it can appear on any part of the body.


Question: What should I do if a tick with Lyme disease bites my dog?

Answer: The more ticks in your region, the likelier it is that your furry pal will bring them home. â On the flip side, low rates of exposure in dogs is a good indicator that Lyme is not a problem in the area.â And they can get sick. About 10% of dogs with Lyme disease will become ill. Common symptoms, which may show up 7-21 days after a tick bite, are lameness -- your dog will appear to be walking on eggshells -- a fever, lethargy, and enlarged lymph nodes. Dogs also get antibiotics for treatment.


Question: Why is it important to exercise to keep a healthy heart?

Answer: It's never too late to start exercising, and you don't have to be an athlete. Once you get going, you'll find it pays off. People who don't exercise are almost twice as likely to get heart disease as people who are active. That amounts to about 30 minutes a day at least 5 days a week. You don't have to do the same exact thing every time.


Question: Are there any exercise precautions to take for a healthy heart?

Answer: Would you rather work out on your own, with a trainer, or in a class? You're moving fast enough to raise your heart rate and breathe harder, but you should still be able to talk to someone while you're doing it. Let your muscles recover for a day between sessions. That fades as your body gets used to it. Soon, you might be surprised to find that you like how you feel when you're done.


Question: What are tips to help me recover from oral surgery?

Answer: After your appointment, plan to spend the rest of the day resting. Bottom line is to follow directions and keep the area clean of food bits to prevent infection. For the first 24 hours, apply ice to your jaw for 30 minutes, remove it for 15 minutes, then do it again. Call your doctor or oral surgeon right away. Gently bite on folded gauze for a bit to help slow the flow. If the bleeding continues for more than 24 hours or is so heavy that the gauze needs to be changed more often, call your dentist or oral surgeon. Cool, soft foods after surgery are good. Look for infection, fever, swelling that lasts more than 2 days, and trouble swallowing or breathing.


Question: How does a food diary help track allergy triggers?

Answer: But one thing that can help is to keep a food diary. All you have to do is record what you eat and when you get allergy symptoms. Then look for patterns. Share the diary with your doctor or dietitian to help figure out the cause of your problems.


Question: How can loose or lost teeth be a sign of another health problem?

Answer: Other oral signs of diabetes include: Dry mouth Fruity smelling breath Oral fungal infections Teeth that move or fall out unexpectedly are a sign of advanced gum disease. Tooth loss can also be one of the early signs of osteoporosis, which decreases bone density and weakens your bones. By seeing your dentist regularly, eating a well-balanced diet, and getting regular physical activity, you can get the jump on being diagnosed and treated before any serious injuries occur.


Question: How can changes in tooth surfaces and enamel be a sign of another health problem?

Answer: Along with symptoms such as cold sores, jaw and mouth pain are often signs of stress. Excessive vomiting, such as seen with bulimia, can lead to other oral health issues such as: Dry mouth Dry and cracked lips Loss of tooth enamel Sensitive teeth Swollen salivary glands Bad breath can result from a dry mouth or the foods and drinks you consume.


Question: Should you inform your doctor about new medications if you are pregnant?

Answer: If you were taking prescription medications before you became pregnant, be sure to ask your doctor about the safety of continuing these medications as soon as you find out that you are pregnant. Be sure to discuss the risks and benefits of the newly prescribed medication with your doctor before taking the medication.


Question: How is erythrodermic psoriasis treated?

Answer: You're more likely to get erythrodermic psoriasis if you already have plaque psoriasis, especially if it's unstable. Doctors will try to stop the flare-up as quickly as possible and protect you from complications.


Question: What is chronic heartburn?

Answer: That can lead to burning in your esophagus. Tobacco may also cause your stomach to make more acid and relax the muscles at the lower end of your esophogas that can shut down the opening between the stomach and the esophagus. If you have chronic severe heartburn, you may need medications. Make sure you're aware of the side effects of all the medication you take.


Question: How can raising the head of your bed affect chronic heartburn?

Answer: You can get them over the counter or with a prescription. The surgeon wraps the top of your stomach around the bottom of your esophagus to strengthen it and help keep the acid where it belongs.


Question: How are radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy used to treat postmenopausal bleeding?

Answer: Your doctor will prescribe one based on what type of cancer you have and what stage it's in. The years before menopause are called perimenopause.


Question: Is bleeding during perimenopause normal?

Answer: D& C (dilation and curettage): During this procedure, the doctor opens your cervix. Your period may be heavier or lighter than usual. You may also have spotting. That's normal. You should also get checked out if you bleed after sex or more often than every 3 weeks.


Question: What is the link between psoriasis and depression?

Answer: There are ways to treat both depression and psoriasis that can help clear up your skin and boost your mood. Psoriasis is uncomfortable. Psoriasis affects your brain chemicals.


Question: What is a dental cap?

Answer: If a large piece of tooth breaks off or the tooth has a lot of decay, the dentist may grind or file away part of the remaining tooth and cover it with a crown, or tooth-shaped cap, made to protect the tooth and improve its appearance. Permanent crowns can be made from metal, porcelain fused to metal, all resin, or all ceramic. If the entire top of the tooth is broken off but the root is still intact, the dentist or an endodontist (a dentist who specializes in root canals) may perform root canal therapy and place a pin or a post in the canal, and then build up enough of a structure onto which a crown can be made. Later, the dentist can cement the crown over the pin or post-retained restoration. If a front tooth is broken or chipped, a dental veneer can make it look whole and healthy again.


Question: How long are kids contagious when they have the flu?

Answer: There are three types of viruses that cause it: types A, B, and C. The two that cause the yearly epidemics are influenza A and B. Most kids get better within a week, but they may still feel weak for up to a month.


Question: How can I keep roaches out of my home?

Answer: If your allergies act up when you're at home, your bedroom is probably one of your problem areas. Try not to leave wet towels on the floor. Roaches thrive on water. Store food in tightly sealed containers. Keep your dishes clean. Hire an exterminator if you need to.


Question: How should I choose and clean a carpet for my bedroom?

Answer: Clean it using a vacuum with a HEPA filter and a double bag every week. Wear a dust mask while you vacuum so you don't inhale dust that floats up into the air. Both can trigger upper respiratory symptoms if you have allergies or asthma. Dust mites and mold like a warm, damp room, but you probably don't.


Question: How is diagnosis of a chordoma confirmed?

Answer: Chordoma is a kind of cancer that grows in the bones of your skull and spine. Your doctor will use a needle to take a small sample of cells from the tumor. A specialist will look at the cells under a microscope to see what kind of tumor you have. Your doctor might also do a blood test, a CT scan of your lungs, or a bone scan to see if the tumor has spread.


Question: How common is chordoma?

Answer: About 300 people are diagnosed with chordoma in the United States each year. Many grow in the bottom of your spine or at the base of your skull.


Question: Where do chordomas form?

Answer: From there, they can spread to other organs, like your lungs. But they usually grow slowly. Chordoma in the skull causes symptoms like: Abnormal eye movements Changes to your voice or speech Double vision Headache Loss of feeling and movement in your face Neck pain Trouble swallowing Chordoma of the spine causes symptoms like: Loss of control over your bowels Lump in the lower part of your back Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or legs Pain in your lower back Problems controlling your bladder Sometimes, chordomas in the brain can block the flow of fluid there and in the spine.


Question: How should you care for skin with rosacea?

Answer: Use one that's a broad spectrum (blocks UVA and UVB rays) and SPF 30 or higher whenever you go outside. It's especially helpful in cold weather. Massage your face. Gently rub your skin in a circular motion. Put a green-tinted cover-up on your face to hide redness and broken blood vessels. Get out of the heat and sun and cool off in an air-conditioned room. Care for your eyes. If rosacea has made them red and irritated, use a watered-down baby shampoo or eyelid cleaner to gently clean your eyelids every day. Also put a warm compress on your eyes a few times a day.


Question: How do conjugate monoclonal antibodies work?

Answer: They're called "monoclonal" antibodies. Different ones work in different ways: Naked monoclonal antibodies, the most common type for cancer treatment, don't have anything attached to them. This lowers side effects and helps treatments like chemotherapy and radiation work their best. Some attach to both a cancer cell and an immune system cell, helping promote immune system attacks on the cancer.


Question: When are monoclonal antibodies used for treatment?

Answer: They're called "monoclonal" antibodies. Most people get this type of medication through a vein. Your doctor might also pair it with other treatments like chemotherapy or hormone therapy. How often you get it depends on your cancer type. Research is underway to see how monoclonal antibodies work for many cancer types. These inhibitors treat melanoma, non-small-cell lung cancer, kidney cancer, bladder cancer, head and neck cancers, stomach cancer, colorectal cancer, and Hodgkin's lymphoma.


Question: How is immunotherapy used for adoptive T cell transfer?

Answer: T cells are a type of white blood cell your immune system makes to fight disease. After chemotherapy, your doctor puts the re-engineered T cells back in your body. First, doctors will take TILs from your tumor tissue and grow a large number of them in a lab. These proteins help your TILs find and destroy cancer cells. An interferon called IFN-alfa is used to treat cancers, including: Hairy cell leukemia Chronic myelogenous leukemia ( CML) Follicular non- Hodgkin's lymphoma Cutaneous (skin) T-cell lymphoma Kidney cancer Melanoma Kaposi sarcoma Colony stimulating factors strengthen your immune system by boosting the production of white blood cells in your bone marrow.


Question: What are interferons?

Answer: General immunotherapies fall into a few different classes of drugs: Interleukins are a type of cytokine, a molecule produced by some immune cells to control the growth and activity of other immune cells. An interferon called IFN-alfa is used to treat cancers, including: Hairy cell leukemia Chronic myelogenous leukemia ( CML) Follicular non- Hodgkin's lymphoma Cutaneous (skin) T-cell lymphoma Kidney cancer Melanoma Kaposi sarcoma Colony stimulating factors strengthen your immune system by boosting the production of white blood cells in your bone marrow.


Question: What are immune checkpoint inhibitors?

Answer: If these cells have gotten inside the cancer cells, it's a sign that your body is trying to fight the cancer on its own. To keep control, your immune system has molecular brakes called checkpoints. Cancer cells sometimes take advantage of them by turning them on or off so they can hide. Immune checkpoint inhibitors are drugs designed to release these brakes and let your immune system do its job.


Question: How is immunotherapy used as a cancer vaccine?

Answer: How often you get it depends on your cancer type. But it can be any compound that's put into your body to start an immune reaction. Vaccines treat cancer by spurring your immune system to attack tumor cells. They can be made of dead cancer cells, proteins or pieces or proteins from cancer cells, or immune system cells. Researchers are working on several right now, but only one is fully approved. Sipuleucel- T ( Provenge) is used to treat advanced prostate cancer that doesn't respond to other treatments.


Question: What is the long-term outlook for children who are not treated for ADHD?

Answer: Hyperactivity can show up as feelings of restlessness in teens and adults. A child with hyperactive behavior may get symptoms of other disruptive disorders, like oppositional-defiant disorder. These children are especially at risk to be more likely to drop out of school. If you're concerned, talk to your or your child's doctor about your treatment options. Medications, behavioral therapy, and other tactics can help.


Question: How do children with impulsive tendencies differ from children with ADHD?

Answer: Symptoms of this include: Impatience Having a hard time waiting to talk or react The person might: Have a hard time waiting for their turn. But in children with the disorder they happen a lot -- at home and school, or when visiting with friends. They also mess with the child's ability to function like other children who are the same age or developmental level.


Question: What are the serious risks of taking lithium for bipolar disorder?

Answer: People who take lithium also should consult with their doctor before taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, because those medications can increase lithium levels. There are a few serious risks to consider. The drug has been linked to certain birth defects and should be used with caution in pregnant women, especially during the first three months of pregnancy. The safety of breastfeeding while taking lithium is controversial and should be discussed in advance with your doctor. Also, in some people, long-term lithium treatment can interfere with kidney function or lead to permanent kidney damage -- which is why periodic monitoring of blood tests to measure kidney functioning is important.


Question: When should you call a doctor about intravenous immunoglobulin therapy?

Answer: If you get IVIg, it can help strengthen your immune system so you can fight infections and stay healthy. Get emergency medical help right away if you get hives, a tight feeling in your chest, or you wheeze.


Question: What can help to diagnose seizures in children?

Answer: The research into the genetics of seizures is helping experts discover the particular ways different types of seizures occur. Seizures are over so quickly that your doctor probably will never see your child having one. Also, you may want to keep a video camera handy so that you can tape your child during a seizure. This may sound like an insensitive suggestion, but a video can help the doctor enormously in making an accurate diagnosis. The causes aren't known, but parents of children with epilepsy should know that it's a very rare occurrence.


Question: What are the risks of seizures in children?

Answer: Simple partial seizures, in which a child may have a sudden, overwhelming sense of terror, are especially frightening. One of the problems with complex partial seizures, for instance, is that people have no control of their actions. They may wind up doing inappropriate or bizarre things that upset people around them. It's also possible for children to injure themselves during a seizure if they fall to the ground or hit other things around them. But the seizures themselves are usually not harmful. Although the majority of seizures aren't dangerous and don't require immediate medical attention, one kind does.


Question: How does an altimeter help people track their fitness?

Answer: Some devices have an altimeter to count the flights of stairs or hills you climbed. If you're a hiker or outdoor enthusiast, you'll appreciate the data you get from an altimeter. It gives a more accurate reading of how hard you're working and how many calories you've burned. You might also want to check if it will sync to fitness and food tracking apps like Lose It!


Question: How do I use a step counter as a fitness tracker?

Answer: Shop for devices that ask for the length of your footstep or âcadence.â They'll provide the most accurate information. It gives a more accurate reading of how hard you're working and how many calories you've burned.


Question: What is a heart rate monitor for exercise?

Answer: Be sure to look for devices that ask for your weight and gender to get the most accurate results. If so, monitoring your heart rate will help by gauging your exercise intensity in the moment. This information will help you know when to rev up or slow down and recover. Some devices even sense your body temperature and sweat to gauge how hard you're exercising. If you have heart problems or take certain blood pressure medicines, ask your doctor if checking your heart rate during exercise is a good way to measure your exercise intensity.


Question: What causes food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES)?

Answer: You may notice that a couple of hours after your baby eats, she vomits over and over and then gets diarrhea. If you notice these signs, take your child to the hospital right away: Apparent confusion Cool or clammy skin Extreme thirst Pale or even blue skin Shallow breaths Sluggishness or tiredness Weak pulse The syndrome is caused by cells in your child's immune system that react badly to certain foods. This leads to a severe reaction in the gastrointestinal tract. About 40% to 80% of kids who have the allergy have family members who also have other types of allergies such as hay fever or eczema skin rashes. This will be done in a clinic or hospital.


Question: What triggers food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES)?

Answer: But if your child has a rare allergy called food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome ( FPIES), the reaction may not happen until a few hours after he eats. You may notice that a couple of hours after your baby eats, she vomits over and over and then gets diarrhea. Milk and dairy products, soy or soymilk, and wheat or other grains are the most common foods that cause an attack. Some kids also can be allergic to foods like the ones below that we don't usually think of as triggers: Barley Chicken or turkey Fish Green beans Oats Peas Rice Squash Sweet potatoes If you think your child has FPIES, see an allergist or pediatric gastroenterologist (a doctor who specializes in children's digestion issues).


Question: What are symptoms of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES)?

Answer: You may notice that a couple of hours after your baby eats, she vomits over and over and then gets diarrhea. Some children have symptoms that get worse over time, and they may not grow like they should. Severe attacks can lead to dehydration and shock. That can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure or body temperature. If you notice these signs, take your child to the hospital right away: Apparent confusion Cool or clammy skin Extreme thirst Pale or even blue skin Shallow breaths Sluggishness or tiredness Weak pulse The syndrome is caused by cells in your child's immune system that react badly to certain foods. This will be done in a clinic or hospital.


Question: How is food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES) diagnosed?

Answer: But if your child has a rare allergy called food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome ( FPIES), the reaction may not happen until a few hours after he eats. You may notice that a couple of hours after your baby eats, she vomits over and over and then gets diarrhea. An APT involves putting a possible trigger food into a metal cap that's put on your child's skin for 48 hours to see if there's a reaction. But these tests can't confirm that your child has FPIES. The only way to tell for sure is to do something called an oral food challenge, or OFC. Your child will eat foods you think may be triggers to see if there's a reaction. This will be done in a clinic or hospital.


Question: What is food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome (FPIES)?

Answer: Unlike other food allergies, this one won't make your child wheeze, break out in hives, or get a rash. Instead, he may vomit or get diarrhea. FPIES typically starts when your child has formula or solid food. Breast milk doesn't usually trigger it, but it is possible. Many kids outgrow the allergy by age 3 or 4. But you may not see symptoms until 2 to 8 hours later. This will be done in a clinic or hospital.


Question: What are skin tumors?

Answer: Skin cysts are non-cancerous closed pockets or pouches of tissue that are filled with fluid or other material. Skin tumors become extremely common as people get older.


Question: Does Medicare cover long-term care?

Answer: You can choose it ( Medicare Parts A and B) for hospital care and access to any doctor or hospital in the country that accepts Medicare. In addition to signing up with Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan, you may need to enroll in Medicare Parts B and D -- which cover outpatient medical care and prescription drugs -- or you risk paying a penalty later.


Question: What should you keep in mind when signing up for Medicare?

Answer: If you instead choose a Medicare Advantage plan, it most cases it will include prescription drug coverage so you don't have to sign up for a separate Part D plan. That time starts 3 months before you turn 65, the month of your birthday, and 3 months following your birthday. Some people will automatically be enrolled in Medicae Parts A and B, but others have to sign up. If you are unsure if you are automatically enrolled, it is a good idea to check with the Social Securiy office. If you're not aitomatically enrolled and don't enroll in Medicare or a Medicare Advantage plan during your open enrollment period, you will pay a penalty for enrolling at a later date. This penalty will occur every month you have Medicare. The same is true if you delay enrollment in a Part D plan for prescription drugs. So don't wait until you're sick or need costly medicine before you sign up. This penalty doesn't apply if you have coverage through your job. But since some employers may require you to enroll in Medicare, check with your HR department before you turn 65.


Question: Can you get dental and vision coverage from Medicare?

Answer: It may also offer additional coverage like dental or eye glasses. But it does cover eye exams for certain conditions, such as glaucoma and macular degeneration. Hearing aids also aren't covered. You'll need supplemental insurance or a Medicare Advantage plan to help with those costs.


Question: What is the best way to keep good long-term hearing?

Answer: If you've already lost some hearing, there are ways to stay connected and communicate with friends and family. In many cases, hearing fades so slowly you don't notice it.


Question: How can you take care of your ears to prevent hearing loss?

Answer: Most people with permanent hearing loss can benefit from a hearing aid. You typically wear these tiny instruments in or behind your ear to make sounds louder. TV-listening systems make it possible for you to hear the television or radio without turning the volume way up. For example, cross the street or cover your ears when you walk past a loud road construction site. If you work in a noisy workplace, talk to your employer about ear safety. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health ( NIOSH) recommends that employers install barrier walls or mufflers in noisy plants to protect their workers' hearing.


Question: How can you tell that you might have hearing loss?

Answer: But you may become more and more cut off from the world of speech and sounds. You may also: Have trouble following a conversation when more than one person speaks at once Think other people are mumbling or not speaking clearly Often misunderstand what others say and respond inappropriately Get complaints that the TV is too loud Hear ringing, roaring, or hissing sounds in your ears, known as tinnitus It depends on the type and source of your hearing loss.


Question: How can iron help rebuild your bone after a fracture?

Answer: When you have a fracture, your body needs it to build new bone for the repair. Iron helps your body make collagen to rebuild bone. It also plays a part in getting oxygen into your bones to help them heal. Good sources: Red meat, dark-meat chicken or turkey, oily fish, eggs, dried fruits, leafy green veggies, whole-grain breads, and fortified cereals.


Question: How can potassium help rebuild your bone after a fracture?

Answer: This mineral also helps you build strong bones, so foods and drinks rich in it can help your bone fracture heal. Get enough of this mineral in your diet, and you won't lose as much calcium when you pee. There are lots of fresh fruits rich in potassium. Good sources: Bananas, orange juice, potatoes, nuts, seeds, fish, meat, and milk.


Question: What foods should I avoid to heal after a bone fracture?

Answer: After a fracture, your bone needs to rebuild. This mineral also helps you build strong bones, so foods and drinks rich in it can help your bone fracture heal. You won't build new bone as fast to fix the fracture. A bit too much alcohol can also make you unsteady on your feet, which can make you more likely to fall and risk an injury to the same bone. Salt: Too much of this in your diet can make you lose more calcium in your urine. Coffee: Lots of caffeine -- more than four cups of strong coffee a day -- can slow down bone healing a little. It might make you pee more, and that could mean you lose more calcium through your urine.


Question: What kind of diet can help rebuild your bone after a fracture?

Answer: A healthy, well-balanced diet rich in key nutrients can help speed that up. You don't need to take supplements unless your doctor recommends it. They don't always work well. It's much better to get the nutrition you need from your plate, not from a pill. There are lots of fresh fruits rich in potassium.


Question: What is a mammogram used for?

Answer: If you feel that the pressure on your breast is too great, tell the technologist. If you feel any discomfort after the mammogram, ask your doctor if you can take aspirin or ibuprofen to relieve it.


Question: What happens after a mammogram?

Answer: Before your mammogram, inform your doctor or the technologist performing the test if you are pregnant or think that you may be pregnant. You will be asked to remove all clothing above the waist and you will be given a hospital gown to wear. The results of your mammogram will be given to your doctor, who will discuss with you what the test results could mean and what further tests might be recommended. If you do not receive your results within two weeks, do not assume the results are normal. Contact your doctor and the mammogram facility to get confirmation of the results.


Question: Why do you need a mammogram?

Answer: Research has shown that mammography can increase breast cancer survival. Your cooperation for these few seconds is important to get a clear picture. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that women in their 20s and 30s should get a clinical breast exam with their doctor at least every three years, and annually after the age of 45.


Question: What can you do to avoid germs if you have cystic fibrosis (CF)?

Answer: Frequently wash your hands with soap and water. Clean and disinfect your medical equipment properly. Don't share items that come into contact with saliva (straws or utensils) with other people -- even family. Avoid contact with dust or dirt. Stay current on your vaccines, including the flu vaccine, and ask family and friends to do the same. Stay at least 6 feet away from anyone who's sick.


Question: How can infections from germs affect your cystic fibrosis (CF)?

Answer: This can put you at risk for lung infections, which affect how well your lungs work. They can also cause lung disease to get worse. Exercise helps clear mucus out of your lungs. If you go to the gym, take steps to avoid germs.


Question: Should I get checked out by a driver rehabilitation specialist to determine if multiple sclerosis is affecting my ability to drive?

Answer: It can affect the skills you need behind the wheel -- your vision, memory, reflexes, and how well you move your arms and legs. Sometimes you'll notice when your MS symptoms affect your driving, like you can't move your foot from the gas pedal to the brake quickly. But other symptoms aren't so obvious. Whether or not you need special equipment to drive, knowing how MS affects you can help you plan out your trips. Think about where you'll have to turn and what the streets look like. Some people with MS find it hard to program a GPS system or listen to one announce directions.


Question: Why does quick action matter with a heart attack?

Answer: Immediate treatment lessens heart damage and saves lives. The longer you wait for treatment, the more chances of survival go down and damage to the heart goes up. About half of those who die from heart attacks do so within the first hour after symptoms begin.


Question: How can untreated hepatitis C lead to high blood sugar?

Answer: Your pancreas will pump out more insulin, a hormone that helps move sugar into your cells. That means too much sugar will stay in your blood. Over time, your body could stop responding to the effects of insulin. Both can lead to type 2 diabetes. Can you die from hepatitis?


Question: How can untreated hepatitis C lead to blood and vessel problems?

Answer: Without treatment of a chronic infection, about 75% to 85% of people who have it get a long-term infection called chronic hepatitis C. If the condition goes untreated, it can lead to: Cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver Liver cancer Liver failure People with hepatitis C often get a condition called cryoglobulinemia. This happens when certain proteins in your blood stick together in cold weather. They can build up in vessels and block blood flow, which causes swelling and damage. The condition can affect your skin, organs, nerves, and joints. Hepatitis C also can cause problems with blood itself. If you don't treat hep C, it can lead to fatal conditions like liver failure and liver cancer.


Question: How does treatment help with hepatitis C if you've had it for a while?

Answer: When you see your doctor and start treatment for a chronic hep C infection, you can prevent these problems, improve them, or keep them from getting worse. New drugs can clear the virus from your body in a few months with fewer side effects than older medicines. If there's no virus in your blood 3 months after treatment, you're considered cured. Getting rid of the infection protects others, too. People who get hep C treatment greatly lower the odds that they will pass the virus to someone else.


Question: How can untreated hepatitis C affect your blood?

Answer: Hepatitis C also can cause problems with blood itself. You may not make enough white blood cells, which fight infections, or platelets, which help your blood clot. The infection can also make you bruise easily or get red or purple spots under your skin. Those are signs of a bleeding disorder called immune thrombocytopenic purpura. If you don't treat hep C, it can lead to fatal conditions like liver failure and liver cancer.


Question: How can untreated hepatitis C lead to nerve problems?

Answer: Both can lead to type 2 diabetes. Another condition, called paresthesia, is a feeling of tingling or numbness in your skin.


Question: How can untreated hepatitis C lead to joint and muscle pain?

Answer: If you don't treat hep C, it can lead to fatal conditions like liver failure and liver cancer. A condition called arthralgia causes joint pain and is common in people with hepatitis C. It's different from arthritis, which causes pain and swelling in joints. But infected people can also get hepatitis C-related arthritis. Fibromyalgia, which causes body aches and muscle pain, is also common in people with hepatitis C. People with hepatitis C are about 40% more likely to get long-term kidney disease than those who are not infected.


Question: How can untreated hepatitis C affect you?

Answer: The virus makes it swell. Without treatment of a chronic infection, about 75% to 85% of people who have it get a long-term infection called chronic hepatitis C. If the condition goes untreated, it can lead to: Cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver Liver cancer Liver failure People with hepatitis C often get a condition called cryoglobulinemia. If you don't treat hep C, it can lead to fatal conditions like liver failure and liver cancer. Hepatitis C can make it hard for your body's cells to take in sugar from the food you eat. A condition called arthralgia causes joint pain and is common in people with hepatitis C. It's different from arthritis, which causes pain and swelling in joints. It mostly affects your feet and legs. The hep C infection activates your immune system so it can fight the virus. People who get hep C treatment greatly lower the odds that they will pass the virus to someone else. From there, it depends on what type of cirrhosis you have, your treatment, and if you can get a liver transplant.


Question: When should you stop exercising if you have heart problems?

Answer: Stop activity if you get a rapid or irregular heartbeat or have heart palpitations. If it's still more than 100 beats per minute, call the doctor. Don't ignore it. Stop and rest if you: Feel weak Are dizzy or light-headed Have unexplained weight gain or swelling -- call the doctor right away Feel pressure or pain in your chest, neck, arm, jaw, or shoulder Are concerned for any reason Call the doctor if those feelings don't go away.


Question: What is a detached retina?

Answer: This serious eye condition happens when your retina -- a layer of tissue at the back of your eye that processes light -- pulls away from the tissue around it. If your retina gets torn, the fluid inside your eye can leak underneath and separate the retina from its underlying tissue.


Question: What are symptoms of shortness of breath (dyspnea)?

Answer: When you have shortness of breath, you can't catch your breath or get enough air in your lungs. Your doctor might call it dyspnea. When you have dyspnea, you might feel: Out of breath Tightness in your chest Hungry for air (you might hear this called air hunger) Unable to breathe deeply Like you can't breathe (suffocation) It can be acute (sudden dyspnea) or chronic (long-lasting dyspnea). Acute dyspnea starts within a few minutes or hours. It can happen with other symptoms like a fever, rash, or cough. Chronic dyspnea can make you feel out of breath with everyday tasks, such as walking from room to room or standing up from a sitting position.


Question: What medicines may your doctor prescribe for ulcerative colitis?

Answer: Your doctor may prescribe a few different kinds of drugs, including: Antibiotics to fight infections and let your large intestine heal Medicine to lower inflammation in your colon and control your symptoms. Meds to help stop your immune system's attack on your colon Biologics are drugs made from proteins in living cells instead of chemicals.


Question: What's the goal of ulcerative colitis treatment?

Answer: There's no cure, and people usually have symptom flare-ups off and on for life. The main symptom of ulcerative colitis is bloody diarrhea. You may need a mix of diet changes, medication, or surgery to reach those goals. Your doctor may prescribe a few different kinds of drugs, including: Antibiotics to fight infections and let your large intestine heal Medicine to lower inflammation in your colon and control your symptoms.


Question: What causes seizures?

Answer: Or, in some severe cases, it may cause unconsciousness and convulsions, when your body shakes uncontrollably. Children get them more often than adults.


Question: How do seizures happen?

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(); }); } Seizures usually come on suddenly. How long and severe they are can vary. A seizure can happen to you just once, or over and over. If they keep coming back, that's epilepsy, or a seizure disorder. Less than one in 10 people who have a seizure get epilepsy. This type begins in a specific area of the brain. You may or may not be able to respond to people while it's happening. Focal onset impaired awareness seizures can cause unconsciousness.


Question: What leads to osteoarthritis of the knee (degenerative arthritis of the knee)?

Answer: For others, osteoarthritis of the knee can result from injury or infection or even from being overweight. While it can occur even in young people, the chance of developing osteoarthritis rises after age 45. It may also be due to inherited abnormalities in the shape of the bones that surround the knee joint.


Question: What is osteoarthritis?

Answer: Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis. Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee may include: pain that increases when you are active, but gets a little better with rest swelling feeling of warmth in the joint stiffness in the knee, especially in the morning or when you have been sitting for a while decrease in mobility of the knee, making it difficult to get in and out of chairs or cars, use the stairs, or walk creaking, crackly sound that is heard when the knee moves The diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis will begin with a physical exam by your doctor.


Question: What causes knee osteoarthritis?

Answer: The most common cause of osteoarthritis of the knee is age. Almost everyone will eventually develop some degree of osteoarthritis. However, several factors increase the risk of developing significant arthritis at an earlier age. Repetitive stress injuries.


Question: How is osteoarthritis of the knee treated?

Answer: Symptoms of osteoarthritis of the knee may include: pain that increases when you are active, but gets a little better with rest swelling feeling of warmth in the joint stiffness in the knee, especially in the morning or when you have been sitting for a while decrease in mobility of the knee, making it difficult to get in and out of chairs or cars, use the stairs, or walk creaking, crackly sound that is heard when the knee moves The diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis will begin with a physical exam by your doctor. The treatment plan will typically include a combination of the following: Weight loss. Using devices such as braces.


Question: How is arthroscopy done to treat knee osteoarthritis?

Answer: Your doctor may order additional testing, including: X-rays, which can show bone and cartilage damage as well as the presence of bone spurs magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) scans MRI scans may be ordered when X-rays do not give a clear reason for joint pain or when the X-rays suggest that other types of joint tissue could be damaged. Surgery. Arthroscopy uses a small telescope (arthroscope) and other small instruments. The surgery is performed through small incisions. The procedure is often used on younger patients ( ages 55 and younger) in order to delay more serious surgery.


Question: How does athletics play a role in knee osteoarthritis?

Answer: However, several factors increase the risk of developing significant arthritis at an earlier age. That means athletes should take precautions to avoid injury. However, it's important to note that regular moderate exercise strengthens joints and can decrease the risk of osteoarthritis. In fact, weak muscles around the knee can lead to osteoarthritis.


Question: How can monitoring your symptoms prevent heart failure from worsening?

Answer: Do not wait for your symptoms to become so severe that you need to seek emergency treatment. Call your doctor if you have urgent questions.


Question: What are the goals of treating heart failure?

Answer: Your doctor may ask you to keep a record of the amount of fluids you drink or eat and how often you go to the bathroom. Medications are used to improve your heart's ability to pump blood, decrease stress on your heart, decrease the progression of heart failure, and prevent fluid retention.


Question: How does a heart attack cause heart failure?

Answer: Coronary artery disease ( CAD), a disease of the arteries that supply blood and oxygen to the heart, causes decreased blood flow to the heart muscle. A heart attack damages the heart muscle, resulting in a scarred area that does not function properly.


Question: What will your doctor ask about if you think you have heart failure?

Answer: Conditions including high blood pressure, valve disease, thyroid disease, kidney disease, diabetes, or heart defects present at birth can all cause heart failure. Do not drink alcohol. If you have questions, ask your doctor or nurse.


Question: What are symptoms of heart failure?

Answer: If fluid builds up in the arms, legs, ankles, feet, lungs, or other organs, the body becomes congested, and congestive heart failure is the term used to describe the condition. The symptoms can include: Congested lungs. Fluid backup in the lungs can cause shortness of breath with exercise or difficulty breathing at rest or when lying flat in bed. Lung congestion can also cause a dry, hacking cough or wheezing. Fluid and water retention. Less blood to your kidneys causes fluid and water retention, resulting in swollen ankles, legs, 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. Dizziness, fatigue, and weakness. Less blood to your major organs and muscles makes you feel tired and weak. Less blood to the brain can cause dizziness or confusion. Rapid or irregular heartbeats. The heart beats faster to pump enough blood to the body. This can cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat. If you have heart failure, you may have one or all of these symptoms or you may have none of them. They may or may not indicate a weakened heart.


Question: What are the treatments for Kawasaki disease?

Answer: Kawasaki disease is an illness that almost always affects kids, most of them under the age of 5. Your child may have a lot of pain from the fever, swelling, and skin irritation. His doctor might prescribe medication to relieve these, including aspirin and others that prevent blood clots. You shouldn't give your child any medication without talking to your doctor first. He'll probably also get an IV of immune globulin. It will lessen his chance of heart issues when used early in his treatment. Because of the risk of complications, most children are initially treated for Kawasaki disease in the hospital.


Question: What conditions are more likely associated with Kawasaki disease?

Answer: Kawasaki disease is an illness that almost always affects kids, most of them under the age of 5. Because it involves the heart, this illness can be scary. But most children recover completely and have no lasting problems. However, in rare cases, children can have: Abnormal heart rhythms (dysrhythmia) Inflamed heart muscles (myocarditis) Damaged heart valves (mitral regurgitation) Inflamed blood vessels (vasculitis) These can lead to further troubles, including weak or bulging artery walls.


Question: Can ombitasvir, paritaprevir, and ritonavir (Technivie) treat my hepatitis C?

Answer: The FDA warns it can sometimes seriously slow your heart rate, which may require you to get a pacemaker. Side effects include feeling itchy, weak, tired, or having trouble sleeping. This medicine might cause severe liver damage in people with advanced cirrhosis. Typically, your doctor will only prescribe this if you don't have cirrhosis and after other treatments have not worked.


Question: What are the future goals for treating hepatitis C?

Answer: But in general, the medicine interferes with proteins that help the virus grow or spread. Researchers may continue to come up with new treatments, and some of the combinations of medications below may change as they make new discoveries.


Question: How has hepatitis C transformed over the years?

Answer: These drugs didn't target the virus that made you sick. Instead, they amped up your immune system so you'd fight it the way you do when you get the flu. But the treatment didn't always get the virus out of your body. Cure rates hovered around 50%. And people who stuck with the yearlong treatment -- not all did -- had to live with chemo-like side effects. These days, more and more people can get rid of the virus by simply taking a pill, at home, for just a few weeks. This is called sustained virologic response ( SVR), and it's what doctors look for to tell if you're cured. Ledipasvir and sofosbuvir ( Harvoni): This once-a-day pill launched a revolution in hep C treatment. The most common side effects are headache, tiredness, diarrhea, and nausea.


Question: What is hepatitis C?

Answer: 1 cause of liver cancer and liver transplants. It's brought on by a virus you can catch if you come into contact with contaminated blood. You could get it from an unclean tattoo needle, for example. Sometimes, it spreads during sex. There are many different types, or "genotypes," of hepatitis C. Type 1 is the most common.


Question: Can hepatitis C be cured?

Answer: But curing it hasn't always been easy or comfortable. There are certain drugs that shouldn't be taken with it, as the combination can slow your heartbeat.


Question: When should I call a doctor about sun damage?

Answer: Skin cancer is often treatable when it's found early. Also, talk to your doctor about any medications that you take. Some antibiotics, antidepressants, and diabetes drugs can make skin more sensitive to sun. Some drugs that you put on your skin, such as Renova and Retin- A, can make your skin very sensitive and cause it to burn quickly. It soothes damaged skin because it is anti-inflammatory and may prevent the burn from deepening.


Question: What should I do if I get a sunburn?

Answer: Choose a sunscreen with the right SPF to avoid sunburn and skin damage. If you use these treatments, ask your doctor how to protect your skin from the sun. Immediately apply 90% aloe vera gel or the juice squeezed directly from the aloe plant. Every tropical culture uses aloe vera as a treatment for sunburn. It soothes damaged skin because it is anti-inflammatory and may prevent the burn from deepening. If you don't have aloe, apply a moisturizing lotion that doesn't contain alcohol.


Question: Can I get too much sun?

Answer: Years of getting too much sun can lead to early wrinkling and age spots, and makes you more likely to get skin cancer. It soothes damaged skin because it is anti-inflammatory and may prevent the burn from deepening.


Question: Should you exercise if you have heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia (HeFH)?

Answer: If you have heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia ( He FH), you'll need to make some long-term changes to manage the disease. Even if you eat an ideal diet and are a healthy weight, it's important to stay active. Do some aerobic exercise -- activity that gets your heart pumping -- for at least 30 minutes, 4 or more times a week, to help lower the levels of fats and cholesterol in your blood. Some ways to stay active are walking, jogging, swimming, dancing, biking, climbing stairs at work, or playing sports. Talk to your doctor about how to make these changes in the safest way for you.


Question: Why would my doctor order a liver-spleen scan?

Answer: It makes proteins and cholesterol your body uses in digestion. It helps turn food into energy, and along with the spleen it acts as a filter that flushes harmful wastes. But if your liver is injured or diseased, it can have trouble doing its job. If that happens, your doctor might order a liver-spleen scan to find out what's wrong. The scans give your doctor tons of valuable information. Liver scans can do several important jobs: Check for liver cancer, hepatitis and cirrhosis Make tumors, abscesses, or cysts of the liver or spleen visible Help doctors see whether and how liver disease is advancing Watch the progress of treatment Look at damage to the liver or spleen from an accident Scan for any unexplained pain There are few risks for most people when having a liver scan.


Question: Where do most compression fractures happen?

Answer: When you get enough of them, the front part of the bone can collapse. The back of the vertebra is made of harder bone, so it stays intact. That creates a wedge-shaped vertebra, which can lead to the stooped posture you might know as a dowager's hump. Doctors call it kyphosis. But most spinal compression fractures happen because of osteoporosis.


Question: What are spinal compression fractures?

Answer: When these small hairline fractures add up, they can eventually cause a vertebra to collapse, which is called spinal compression fracture. But most spinal compression fractures happen because of osteoporosis. In fact, about two-thirds of spinal compression fractures are never diagnosed because many people think the back pain is just a part of aging and arthritis. It's important to see your doctor if you're in pain.


Question: How can chest X-ray help in the diagnosis of shortness of breath?

Answer: It's painless and easy -- a radiology technologist can do one in about 15 minutes. The results can tell them whether or not conditions such as anemia or heart failure are making you short of breath.


Question: How do probiotics work?

Answer: Some of the ways they may keep you healthy: When you lose "good" bacteria in your body, for example after you take antibiotics, probiotics can help replace them. They can help balance your "good" and "bad" bacteria to keep your body working the way it should. Researchers are still trying to figure out which are best for certain health problems.


Question: What are the different types of probiotics?

Answer: You can find probiotics in supplements and some foods, like yogurt. Doctors often suggest them to help with digestive problems. Many types of bacteria are classified as probiotics. They all have different benefits, but most come from two groups. Ask your doctor about which might best help you. Lactobacillus. You can find it in some dairy products. It may help ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS) and some other conditions. Saccharomyces boulardii is a yeast found in probiotics. It appears to help fight diarrhea and other digestive problems.


Question: How safe are liquid diets?

Answer: Also, if you don't get enough fiber, because you're not eating whole grains, fruits and vegetables, you can get constipated. You also can lose muscle if you don't get enough protein calories in your diet. If your doctor gives you the OK to go on a liquid diet, you should also see a registered dietitian, who can go over the diet with you and make sure you're getting enough calories and nutrition. Be sure you're getting 100% of all the recommended vitamins and minerals.


Question: How does group counseling work in the treatment for bipolar disorder?

Answer: Different types of talk therapy options are available to help those with bipolar disorder prevent or cope with a mood episode: Individual counseling: This is a one-on-one session with a professional therapist with experience in bipolar disorders in which the patient's problem areas are addressed. Group counseling: Group sessions allow for the sharing of feelings and the development of effective coping strategies. The give-and-take at group sessions can be the most productive way to change the way you think about bipolar disorder and improve coping skills as you face life's challenges.


Question: Is sleepwalking genetic?

Answer: The sleepwalker can't respond during the event and usually doesn't remember it. You might also have the disorder if you're: Sleep deprived On a chaotic sleep schedule Stressed Drunk Taking drugs such as sedative-hypnotics (which promote relaxation or sleep), neuroleptics (used to treat psychosis), stimulants (which boost activity), and antihistamines (used to treat symptoms of allergy) Medical conditions that have been linked to sleepwalking include: Heart rhythm problems Fever Heartburn Nighttime asthma Nighttime seizures Obstructive sleep apnea (a condition in which you briefly stop breathing during sleep) Restless leg syndrome Psychiatric disorders, for example, posttraumatic stress disorder, panic attacks, or dissociative states, such as multiple personality disorder


Question: What can lead to diverticulosis and diverticulitis?

Answer: Diverticulitis may need to be treated with antibiotics or, in severe cases, surgery. In the past, doctors had recommended that people with diverticular disease (diverticulosis or diverticulitis) avoid hard-to-digest foods such as nuts, corn, popcorn, and seeds, for fear that these foods would get stuck in the diverticula and lead to inflammation.


Question: How do people develop diverticulosis?

Answer: This may be why people in Asia and Africa, where the diet tends to be higher in fiber, have a very low incidence of the condition. In the past, doctors had recommended that people with diverticular disease (diverticulosis or diverticulitis) avoid hard-to-digest foods such as nuts, corn, popcorn, and seeds, for fear that these foods would get stuck in the diverticula and lead to inflammation.


Question: What exams and tests do you need if you have a subconjunctival hemorrhage?

Answer: You may need to have blood tests. Your blood pressure may also be checked. If you've been evaluated by your primary health care provider initially, you may be referred to an eye care specialist. If trauma was the cause, a more thorough examination using a slit lamp (a special microscope for examining the eye) will usually be performed.