Question: Can rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pain make me inactive?

Answer: Inflammation also may make it harder for your body to absorb nutrients it needs to keep your bones strong, like calcium or vitamin D. Pain makes you inactive: RA can make you feel stiff, achy, or so tired that you don't feel like getting off the couch. Physical activity, like walking, helps keep your bones strong. If you don't exercise, your bones can get weaker over time. If RA keeps you from being active, you're at higher risk for osteoporosis.


Question: How can I get inflammation under control if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: RA drugs like methotrexate and tumor necrosis factor ( TNF) inhibitors, such as adalimumab ( Humira), adalimumab-atto ( Amjevita), a biosimilar to Humira, etanercept ( Enbrel), etanercept-szzs ( Ereizi), a biosimilar to Enbrel, infliximab ( Remicade), or infliximab-dyyb ( Inflectra), a biosimilar to Remicade, can stop inflammation and reduce your risk of a fracture.


Question: Should I smoke or drink if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Don't smoke or drink too much. Smoking raises your risk of osteoporosis. It also can cause women to go through menopause and start losing bone mass earlier in life. So if you smoke, quit now. Drinking too much also can make you more likely to lose bone or even to slip and fall.


Question: Is osteoporosis common?

Answer: Osteoporosis is very common, especially as you age. People at higher risk include women, particularly after menopause; people with thin frames; smokers; and people who don't get enough calcium or aren't active.


Question: How can I stay active if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Exercise helps you develop flexible joints, stronger muscles, and better balance with RA. It also can help you protect your bones from osteoporosis because it builds bone mass. The best activities for this are walking, dancing, climbing, or strength training. Even light exercise, like a short walk, can make your joints feel looser and keep your bones strong.


Question: How can I avoid accidents if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: If you have RA and are at risk for osteoporosis, take extra care not to slip or fall. Physical and occupational therapists can show you safer ways to do daily tasks and how to safely exercise. Yoga, tai chi, or low-impact aerobics may help you stay fit and improve your balance.


Question: How friendly is circuit training for beginners?

Answer: You can choose exercises that use your own body weight.


Question: What are the side effects of impingement syndrome treatment?

Answer: Upset stomach, indigestion, and headaches are the most common side effects of oral anti-inflammatory drugs. However, taking these medications after meals or with food can help reduce stomach upset. Anti-inflammatory drugs can also cause vomiting, constipation, and bleeding in the stomach (ulcers), although these side effects are not common. Side effects of cortisone shots depend on the dose and frequency of the injections. Unlike cortisone pills, occasional cortisone injections rarely cause serious side effects. Side effects that are much more common with cortisone pills include elevated blood sugar, a decrease in the body's resistance to infection, weight gain, osteoporosis (thinning of the bones), thinning of the skin, cataracts, and raised blood pressure.


Question: What can help with treating impingement syndrome?

Answer: In addition to taking medications, daily stretching in a warm shower will help. You should work to reach your thumb up and behind your back. Avoid repetitive activities with your injured arm, particularly activities where the elbow would move above shoulder level. Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist who can demonstrate the exercises most effective in strengthening and stretching the shoulder muscles.


Question: What is shoulder impingement syndrome?

Answer: Shoulder impingement syndrome is a common cause of shoulder pain. It occurs when there is impingement of tendons or bursa in the shoulder from bones of the shoulder. Overhead activity of the shoulder, especially repeated activity, is a risk factor for shoulder impingement syndrome. Examples include: painting, lifting, swimming, tennis, and other overhead sports. Other risk factors include bone and joint abnormalities.


Question: When do you need a cortisone-type injection to treat impingement syndrome?

Answer: If you have persistent symptoms, despite the use of oral anti-inflammatory drugs, your doctor may consider a cortisone-type injection. Cortisone is a potent anti-inflammatory medication, which should be used only when necessary because it can result in weakening of muscles and tendons if used repeatedly.


Question: What is the preferred medication for impingement syndrome?

Answer: There is no preferred medication for this condition as response to any given medication differs from person to person. If one anti-inflammatory medication does not help within 10 to 14 days, then another one will be given until one that provides relief is found.


Question: How successful is treatment for impingement syndrome?

Answer: The vast majority of people who have impingement syndrome are successfully treated with medication, stretching exercises, and temporary avoidance of repetitive overhead activity until the condition settles down.


Question: What else may be needed to treat impingement syndrome?

Answer: If symptoms persist or if significant weakness is present, then your doctor may perform an ultrasound, MRI, or arthrogram to rule out a rotator cuff tear. If the cuff is torn, surgery may be necessary to repair it.


Question: What are the symptoms of shoulder impingement syndrome?

Answer: The typical symptoms of impingement syndrome include difficulty reaching up behind the back, pain with overhead use of the arm and weakness of shoulder muscles. If tendons are injured for a long period of time, the tendon can actually tear in two, resulting in a rotator cuff tear. This causes significant weakness and may make it difficult for the person to elevate his or her arm. Some people can have rupture of their biceps muscle as part of this continuing impingement process.


Question: How is shoulder impingement syndrome treated?

Answer: Oral anti-inflammatory medications -- such as aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen, remain the most common treatment for impingement syndrome. The medicines are usually given for six to eight weeks since it often takes that long to fully treat the problem. You should do this under the care of a doctor because these medications can cause stomach irritation and bleeding.


Question: What is the main difference between the flu and a cold?

Answer: It's often hard to tell the difference because the symptoms of both are similar. But there is one clue about flu that can help you know. When you have it, you feel the symptoms sooner than you would with a cold, and they come on with much greater intensity.


Question: What are the signs of stress?

Answer: Common signs of stress include depression, sleep problems, tension, anxiety, work mistakes, poor concentration, and apathy, among many others. If high levels of unwanted stress are not properly managed, your health and sense of well-being can suffer. Therefore, it is important to learn how to manage stress.


Question: When should you call your doctor about flu symptoms?

Answer: Look for these symptoms: Fever -- usually between 101 F and 102 F (but sometimes as high as 106 F) Chills Sore throat Dry, hacking cough Aching muscles General fatigue and weakness Stopped up head Sneezing Headache You have these symptoms, and you also have a weakened immune system because of cancer, diabetes, AIDS, or other conditions. You have symptoms and a serious illness like heart, lung, or kidney disease, brittle asthma, or chronic anemia. You're more likely to have problems with the flu, and your doctor should watch you closely. You have trouble breathing. You have a headache associated with a stiff neck. Your fever lasts more than 3 or 4 days, you get short of breath while resting, and you have chest pain. You may have pneumonia. Your nasal drainage is yellow or green and has lasted for more than 10 days. You could have a sinus infection.


Question: What can be done to treat heat exhaustion?

Answer: If air-conditioning is not available, fan the person. Spray the person with a garden hose, get him or her into a cool shower or bath, apply cool compresses, or give the person a cool sponge bath. Give cool, nonalcoholic and non-caffeinated beverages as long as the person is alert. Have the person avoid physical activity for the rest of the day. Give over-the-counter acetaminophen ( Tylenol) if the person has a mild headache.


Question: When should you call 911 about heat exhaustion?

Answer: Has a very high, weak pulse rate and rapid shallow breathing, especially when combined with high or low blood pressure Is unconscious, disoriented, or has a high body temperature Has warm, dry skin, elevated or lowered blood pressure, and is hyperventilating Get the person out of the heat and into a cool environment.


Question: How can blood sugar affect the eyes of people with diabetes?

Answer: A test called fluorescein angiography can reveal changes in the structure and function of the retinal blood vessels.


Question: How do doctors get a better look at the inside of the eye for diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: Your medical doctor can help you better control blood sugar and can treat other complications of diabetes that may worsen diabetic retinopathy, such as impaired kidney or heart function. Your ophthalmologist can directly treat retinopathy with a laser or a surgical procedure called vitrectomy, to prevent further vascular changes and preserve vision.


Question: How can you lower your chances of getting diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: Studies have shown that maintaining near-normal blood sugar can decrease the chance of developing retinopathy and can help keep existing retinopathy from getting worse. Your doctor can provide you with guidelines that may include insulin and other medications, dietary modifications, and exercise.


Question: How can diabetic retinopathy be detected early?

Answer: Routine screening offers the best hope for early detection of diabetic retinopathy. People with type 1 diabetes should have a complete eye exam within five years of diagnosis; those with type 2 should have an eye exam at the time their diabetes is diagnosed. After these initial exams, all people with diabetes should have an eye exam at least once a year.


Question: Does treatment for diabetic retinopathy restore lost vision?

Answer: Although both of these treatments can be very effective, your expectations for either treatment should be realistic. Typically laser or surgical treatment will not restore lost vision; however, treatment can prevent any additional loss of eyesight. If you already have vision loss, your doctor can counsel you about options for visual rehabilitation.


Question: What exams can help to diagnose diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: Some of the features of diabetic retinopathy cannot be seen during a basic eye exam and require special exams. To get a better look at the inside of the eye, your doctor might administer drops to dilate your pupils and will then view the retina with lenses and a special light called a slit lamp.


Question: Are there complications of treatment for diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: Rare complications of treatment may include blurred vision, headache, glaucoma, difficulty seeing in the dark, decreased peripheral and color vision, and bleeding. In most cases when treatment is recommended, the benefits outweigh the risks.


Question: Can I get retinopathy if I have gestational diabetes?

Answer: Women who suddenly develop diabetes during a pregnancy (gestational diabetes) are not at risk of developing retinopathy during the pregnancy.


Question: What raises your chances of getting diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and obesity can all promote diabetic retinopathy and should be treated. Smoking is also a culprit: Consult with your doctor about methods for quitting. Never ignore the symptoms of infection, which can worsen diabetic retinopathy. Cataract surgery can affect existing retinopathy, too, so discuss the timing of treatments for retinopathy and cataracts with your doctor.


Question: How can I be treated for diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: Treatment for diabetic retinopathy should involve both a medical doctor and an ophthalmologist. Your medical doctor can help you better control blood sugar and can treat other complications of diabetes that may worsen diabetic retinopathy, such as impaired kidney or heart function.


Question: What causes macular edema?

Answer: Frequently, fluid accumulates in the part of the retina used in tasks such as reading; this condition is called macular edema.


Question: What is checked in an eye exam if you have diabetes?

Answer: In people with diabetes, high blood sugar damages the walls of the small blood vessels in the eye, altering their structure and function.


Question: When should you call your doctor about diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: You or your child has been diagnosed with diabetes and you have not discussed retinopathy and routine eye exams with your doctor. You experience either gradual or sudden loss of vision. You have diabetes and are considering pregnancy. You are having trouble sticking to your doctor's recommendations for controlling blood sugar. You have vision loss and would like to discuss options for improving your vision.


Question: How often should I get an eye exam if I am having a baby and have diabetes?

Answer: Some of the features of diabetic retinopathy cannot be seen during a basic eye exam and require special exams.


Question: What does diabetic retinopathy affect?

Answer: High blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and obesity can all promote diabetic retinopathy and should be treated. Smoking is also a culprit: Consult with your doctor about methods for quitting. Never ignore the symptoms of infection, which can worsen diabetic retinopathy. Cataract surgery can affect existing retinopathy, too, so discuss the timing of treatments for retinopathy and cataracts with your doctor.


Question: How do doctors test for diabetic retinopathy?

Answer: A test called fluorescein angiography can reveal changes in the structure and function of the retinal blood vessels. For this test, the doctor injects a fluorescent yellow dye into one of your veins and then photographs your retina as the dye outlines the blood vessels.


Question: How do you do a seated calf raise?

Answer: Starting position: Sit on a firm, sturdy chair with your feet flat on the floor. Keep your knees aligned directly over your feet. Don't let your knees turn in or out. Lean forward placing hands on thighs near knees pushing down to add resistance. Action: Press slowly down into the balls of your feet to raise your heels as high as you can. Next, slowly lower your heels. Repeat. At the gym. Starting position: Set yourself up in the calf press machine with the balls of your feet on the platform. This will let you lower your heels toward the floor. Undo the machine's safety latch and release the weight onto your calves. Action: Drop your heels as far as you can toward the floor to lower the weight, and then press into the balls of your feet to raise your heels as high as you can.


Question: What should you know about calf-strengthening exercises?

Answer: You'll target the two muscles that make up the calf: The gastrocnemius muscle, which gives the calf its rounded shape. The soleus, which is the flatter, longer muscle running underneath the gastrocnemius and lower down your leg.


Question: How do you do a double-leg calf raise?

Answer: Starting position: Stand near a wall for balance. Place your feet hip-width apart, and make sure your ankles, knees, and hips are in vertical alignment to protect your joints. Action: Press down into the balls of both feet to raise your body upward. Keep your abdominal muscles pulled in so that you move straight upward, rather than shifting your body forward or backward.


Question: Which sports help to build your calf?

Answer: Running, walking, and hiking are excellent calf-strengthening exercises, especially when you go uphill. The steeper the climb, the more your calves have to work. Running sports such as soccer, basketball, and tennis demand that you run, jump, and push off your calf muscles to accelerate or change direction quickly. So they're great for toning calves. Step class and other kinds of dance will work your calves every time you step up and down or bend your knees and push off going from high to low positions. Swimming works the calves along with the rest of the legs muscles. It also avoids the impact of running or jumping. Because it's low-impact, it's also a safe way to strengthen calves if you're recovering from an injury.


Question: What are some safety guidelines when doing calf-strengthening exercises?

Answer: Do the exercises consistently two or three times a week to build strength. Move slowly through each exercise so you stay aware of your body alignment. Press up for a slow count of two to four. Then lower back down for a slow count of four. Customize your exercise to match your level of fitness and avoid injury. And check with a fitness professional if you're not sure how much weight is safe for you to use. A general rule of thumb for strength training is to aim for eight to 12 repetitions of each exercise for one to three sets. Your muscles should feel fatigued, but you should be able to finish your repetitions. Increase the load on the muscle gradually over time. For instance, add 10% to 15% to the weight every 2 weeks. Check with your doctor first if you've had a foot, ankle, or calf muscle injury in the past. Depending on your health or physical condition, certain exercises may not be recommended.


Question: Can surgery be used to treat heart failure?

Answer: In heart failure, surgery may sometimes prevent further damage to the heart and improve the heart's function.


Question: How can scheduling regular doctor appointments prevent heart failure from worsening?

Answer: During follow-up visits, your doctors will make sure you are staying healthy and that your heart failure is not getting worse. Your doctor will ask to review your weight record and list of medications. If you have questions, write them down and bring them to your appointment. Call your doctor if you have urgent questions. Notify all your doctors about your heart failure, medications, and any restrictions. Also, check with your heart doctor about any new medications prescribed by another doctor. Keep good records and bring them with you to each doctor visit.


Question: How are B-type Natriuretic Peptide blood tests used to diagnose heart failure?

Answer: BNP is a substance secreted from the heart in response to changes in blood pressure that occur when heart failure develops or worsens. BNP blood levels increase when heart failure symptoms worsen, and decrease when the heart failure condition is stable. The BNP level in a person with heart failure -- even someone whose condition is stable -- may be higher than in a person with normal heart function. BNP levels do not necessarily correlate with the severity of heart failure.


Question: How can you improve your quality of life if you have heart failure?

Answer: There are several things you can do to improve your quality of life if you have heart failure. Among them: Eat a healthy diet. Limit your consumption of sodium (salt) to less than 2,000 milligrams (2 grams) each day. Eat foods high in fiber. Limit foods high in trans fat, cholesterol, and sugar. Reduce total daily intake of calories to lose weight if necessary. Exercise regularly. A regular cardiovascular exercise program, prescribed by your doctor, will help improve your strength and make you feel better. It may also decrease heart failure progression. Don't overdo it. Plan your activities and include rest periods during the day. Certain activities, such as pushing or pulling heavy objects and shoveling may worsen heart failure and its symptoms. Prevent respiratory infections. Ask your doctor about flu and pneumonia vaccines. Take your medications as prescribed. Do not stop taking them without first contacting your doctor. Get emotional or psychological support if needed. Heart failure can be difficult for your whole family. If you have questions, ask your doctor or nurse. If you need emotional support, social workers, psychologists, clergy, and heart failure support groups are a phone call away. Ask your doctor or nurse to point you in the right direction.


Question: How is cardiac catheterization used to diagnose heart failure?

Answer: This invasive procedure helps determine whether coronary artery disease is a cause of congestive heart failure.


Question: How can limiting salt intake prevent heart failure from worsening?

Answer: Sodium is found naturally in many foods we eat. It is also added for flavoring or to make food last longer. If you follow a low-sodium diet, you should have less fluid retention, less swelling, and breathe easier.


Question: How does cardiomyopathy cause heart failure?

Answer: Damage to the heart muscle from causes other than artery or blood flow problems, such as from infections or alcohol or drug abuse.


Question: Is there a treatment for heart failure?

Answer: There are more treatment options available for heart failure than ever before. Tight control over your medications and lifestyle, coupled with careful monitoring, are the first steps. As the condition progresses, doctors specializing in the treatment of heart failure can offer more advanced treatment options.


Question: How many people are affected by heart failure?

Answer: Heart failure affects nearly 6 million Americans. Roughly 670,000 people are diagnosed with heart failure each year. It is the leading cause of hospitalization in people older than age 65. var s_context; s_context= s_context || {}; s_context['wb.modimp'] = 'vidfloat'; if(webmd.useragent && webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop'){ webmd.ads2.disable Initial Load(); webmd.ads2.disable Ads Init = true; $(function() { webmd.p.pim.increment(); $('.responsive-video-container').insert After('.module-social-share-container'); require(['video2/1/responsive-player/video-loader'], function(video Loader) { video Loader.init({ autoplay: webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop' && !


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

Answer: Dry weight is your weight without extra water (fluid). Your goal is to keep your weight within 4 pounds of your dry weight. Weigh yourself at the same time each day, preferably in the morning, in similar clothing, after urinating but before eating, and on the same scale. Record your weight in a diary or calendar. If you gain three pounds in one day or five pounds in one week, call your doctor. Your doctor may want to adjust your medications.


Question: How is an implantable left ventricular assist device used to treat heart failure?

Answer: The LVAD is known as the "bridge to transplantation" for patients who haven't responded to other treatments and are hospitalized with severe systolic heart failure. This device helps your heart pump blood throughout your body. It allows you to be mobile, sometimes returning home to await a heart transplant. It may also be used as destination therapy for long-term support in patients who are not eligible for transplant.


Question: How is an echocardiogram used in heart failure?

Answer: A calculation done during an echocardiogram, called the ejection fraction ( EF), is used to measure how well your heart pumps with each beat to help determine if systolic or diastolic dysfunction is present.


Question: How is an ejection fraction used to diagnose heart failure?

Answer: Ejection fraction ( EF) is used to measure how well your heart pumps with each beat to determine if systolic dysfunction or heart failure with preserved left ventricular function is present.


Question: How are chest X-rays used to diagnose heart failure?

Answer: A chest X-ray shows the size of your heart and whether there is fluid build-up around the heart and lungs.


Question: What is heart failure?

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(); }); } Heart failure does not mean the heart has stopped working. Rather, it means that the heart works less efficiently than normal. Due to various possible causes, blood moves through the heart and body at a slower rate, and pressure in the heart increases. As a result, the heart cannot pump enough oxygen and nutrients to meet the body's needs. The chambers of the heart may respond by stretching to hold more blood to pump through the body or by becoming stiff and thickened. This helps to keep the blood moving, but the heart muscle walls may eventually weaken and become unable to pump as efficiently. As a result, the kidneys may respond by causing the body to retain fluid (water) and salt. 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.


Question: What medications should you avoid if you have heart failure?

Answer: Some antiarrhythmic agents Most calcium channel blockers (if you have systolic heart failure) Some nutritional supplements, such as salt substitutes, and growth hormone therapies Antacids that contain sodium (salt) Decongestants such as Sudafed If you are taking any of these drugs, discuss them with your doctor.


Question: How does coronary heart disease 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. If the arteries become blocked or severely narrowed, the heart becomes starved for oxygen and nutrients.


Question: How do conditions that overwork the heart cause 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. In addition, heart failure can occur when several diseases or conditions are present at once.


Question: When does diastolic dysfunction happen in heart failure?

Answer: Diastolic dysfunction (or diastolic heart failure) occurs when the heart contracts normally, but the ventricles do not relax properly or are stiff, and less blood enters the heart during normal filling.


Question: What are thermal burns?

Answer: Touching a very hot object raises the temperature of your skin to the point that your skin cells start dying. Very hot metals, scalding liquids, and flames all cause thermal burns. Steam can, too.


Question: What are friction burns?

Answer: They include: Friction burns. When a hard object rubs off some of your skin, you have what's called a friction burn. It's both an abrasion (scrape) and a heat burn. These are common in motorcycle and bike accidents. Carpet burn is another type of friction burn.


Question: How bad is my burn?

Answer: Doctors group burns into different categories based on how deeply your skin has been harmed. These are called âdegrees.â You can have a first-, second-, third-, or fourth-degree burn. The higher the degree, the more severe the burn is.


Question: What are radiation burns?

Answer: Sunburn is a type of radiation burn. Other sources of radiation, like X-rays or radiation therapy to treat cancer, can also cause these.


Question: What are electrical burns?

Answer: If you come into contact with an electrical current, you can get this type of burn.


Question: What are chemical burns?

Answer: Chemical burns. Strong acids, solvents or detergents that touch your skin can cause it to burn.


Question: What are cold burns?

Answer: Also called âfrostbite,â cold burns cause damage to your skin by freezing it. You can get frostbite by being outside in freezing temperatures. It can also happen when your skin comes into direct contact with something very cold for a prolonged period of time.


Question: What type of air filters I use if I have allergies?

Answer: Use high-efficiency air filters on your AC and heating units. They're rated on what's called the MERV scale. You want something that's around a MERV 11 or 12. Change the filter every 3 months.


Question: Are there good bedtime habits that can help me with my allergies?

Answer: Prop yourself up with some pillows. Lying flat can let mucus build up in your sinuses and clog your nose. Drink water in the evening. Stay hydrated. It keeps nasal mucus thin and helps it to drain, which means less nighttime stuffiness.


Question: Does humidity impact allergies?

Answer: If it creates the kind of spot that dust mites love, it's time to dry things up. You can check a room's humidity with a gadget called a hygrometer. You'll find them at home supply stores. Keep levels between 40% and 50% to hold off allergens. Clean the filter often, or you'll spread bacteria or fungal spores around the room. That can trigger allergies, too.


Question: What are symptoms of restrictive cardiomyopathy?

Answer: Many people with this have none or just minor ones, and they live a normal life. Other people have ones that get more severe as the heart gets worse. Symptoms can happen at any age and may include: Shortness of breath (at first with exercise, but eventually at rest, too) Fatigue Inability to exercise Swelling of the legs and feet Weight gain Nausea, bloating, and poor appetite Palpitations (fluttering in the chest due to abnormal heart rhythms) Fainting Chest pain or pressure Its cause is often unknown but may include: Buildup of scar tissue Buildup of proteins in the heart muscle (your doctor may call this amyloidosis) Chemotherapy or chest exposure to radiation Too much iron in the heart (also called hemochromatosis) Other diseases In some cases, restrictive cardiomyopathy may be confused with something called constrictive pericarditis.


Question: Should people with restrictive cardiomyopathy exercise?

Answer: Exercise: Your doctor will let you know if it's a good idea for you to exercise. While being active is generally good for the heart, people with this may get very tired and short of breath, even after just a little bit of activity. Therefore, experts suggest you: Take frequent breaks. Exercise at a time of day when you have the most energy. Start slow, gradually building up strength and endurance.


Question: What medications can help with treating restrictive cardiomyopathy?

Answer: Medications: Some people may get better by taking types of drugs called beta-blockers and ACE inhibitors. If symptoms are still around, your doctor may add other medicines like digoxin, diuretics, and aldosterone inhibitors.


Question: How can the right diet help with treating restrictive cardiomyopathy?

Answer: Lifestyle changes might include: Diet: Once you have symptoms like shortness of breath or fatigue, how much sodium you get from food becomes important. You'll be told how strict you need to be. It's a good idea to follow those instructions even when your symptoms get better.


Question: How is restrictive cardiomyopathy diagnosed?

Answer: Your doctor will figure out if you have restrictive cardiomyopathy based on: Your symptoms Your family's history of heart disease A physical exam Blood tests An electrocardiogram A chest X-ray An echocardiogram An exercise stress test Cardiac catheterization A CT scan An MRI A biopsy of the heart muscle (your doctor may call this a myocardial biopsy) is sometimes done to figure out the cause. A tissue sample is taken from your heart and looked at under a microscope.


Question: What medications can help with treating arrhythmia related to restrictive cardiomyopathy?

Answer: If you have an arrhythmia, your doctor may prescribe something to control your heart rate or make the arrhythmia happen less often. Therapy may also be given to treat things like sarcoidosis, amyloidosis, and hemochromatosis. Your doctor will let you know which medications are best for you.


Question: What condition is confused with restrictive cardiomyopathy?

Answer: Symptoms can happen at any age and may include: Shortness of breath (at first with exercise, but eventually at rest, too) Fatigue Inability to exercise Swelling of the legs and feet Weight gain Nausea, bloating, and poor appetite Palpitations (fluttering in the chest due to abnormal heart rhythms) Fainting Chest pain or pressure Its cause is often unknown but may include: Buildup of scar tissue Buildup of proteins in the heart muscle (your doctor may call this amyloidosis) Chemotherapy or chest exposure to radiation Too much iron in the heart (also called hemochromatosis) Other diseases In some cases, restrictive cardiomyopathy may be confused with something called constrictive pericarditis. That's where the layers of the sac that surrounds the heart (called the pericardium) become thickened, calcified, and stiff.


Question: Can surgery help with treating restrictive cardiomyopathy?

Answer: In some cases, if the condition is severe, your doctor may talk to you about a heart transplant.


Question: What are the symptoms of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)?

Answer: Symptoms of ODD may include: Throwing repeated temper tantrums Excessively arguing with adults, especially those with authority Actively refusing to comply with requests and rules Deliberately trying to annoy or upset others, or being easily annoyed by others Blaming others for your mistakes Having frequent outbursts of anger and resentment Being spiteful and seeking revenge Swearing or using obscene language Saying mean and hateful things when upset In addition, many children with ODD are moody, easily frustrated, and have a low self-esteem. They also sometimes may abuse drugs and alcohol.


Question: Can oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) be prevented?

Answer: Although it may not be possible to prevent ODD, recognizing and acting on symptoms when they first appear can minimize distress to the child and family, and prevent many of the problems associated with the illness. Family members also can learn steps to take if signs of relapse (return of symptoms) appear. In addition, providing a nurturing, supportive, and consistent home environment with a balance of love and discipline may help reduce symptoms and prevent episodes of defiant behavior.


Question: What is the outlook for children with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)?

Answer: If your child is showing signs of ODD, it is very important that you seek care from a qualified mental health professional immediately. Without treatment, children with ODD may experience rejection by classmates and other peers because of their poor social skills and aggressive and annoying behavior. In addition, a child with ODD has a greater chance of developing a more serious behavioral disorder called conduct disorder. When started early, treatment is usually very effective.


Question: What diet plan can help with ulcerative colitis?

Answer: There's no single diet that will help everyone with UC. The condition can also change over time, so your plan will need to be flexible, too. The key is to find what works for you. To stay organized, keep a food diary. Use your smartphone or a small notebook to record what you eat and drink and how they make you feel, both good and bad. It takes a bit of time and patience, but it will help you track your condition and fine-tune your diet plan. When you prepare your meals, don't forget that a well-balanced diet gives you enough protein, whole grains, and fresh fruits and vegetables. You might not be able to eat everything in the grocery store or on the menus at the restaurants you like. But try to focus on the ones that you can enjoy without triggering your symptoms. Some simple tweaks in your meal prep can make it easier to eat some foods, like steaming veggies or switching to low-fat dairy. Some people follow a low-residue diet or low-fiber diet every so often, getting about 10-15 grams of fiber a day. That can help you go to the bathroom less often.


Question: What are signs that I have a sleep disorder?

Answer: However, you might have a sleep disorder if: You regularly experience difficulty sleeping You are often tired during the day, even if you slept for at least seven hours the night before You have a reduced or impaired ability to perform regular daytime activities Your partner has told you that you snore loudly and sometimes seem to stop breathing.


Question: What does chemotherapy for pancreatic cancer consist of?

Answer: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy or both can also be used in conjunction with surgery for resectable and unresectable pancreatic cancer in order to: Shrink pancreatic cancer before surgery, improving the chances of resection (neoadjuvant therapy) Prevent or delay pancreatic cancer from returning after surgery (adjuvant therapy) Chemotherapy includes cancer drugs that travel through the whole body. Chemotherapy ("chemo") kills pancreatic cancer cells in the main tumor as well as those that have spread widely. These chemotherapy drugs can be used for pancreatic cancer: 5-fluorouracil (5- FU) or capecitabine Gemcitabine Both 5- FU and gemcitabine are given into the veins during regular visits to an oncologist (cancer doctor). An oral drug, capecitabine, may be substituted for 5- FU, especially with radiation.


Question: What happens after pancreatic cancer is found to be resectable?

Answer: If pancreatic cancer is resectable, surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation or both may extend survival.


Question: Can chemotherapy help metastatic pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Chemotherapy can also help improve pancreatic cancer symptoms and survival. Gemcitabine has been the most widely used chemotherapy drug for treating metastatic pancreas cancer. Other drug combinations include gemcitabine with erlotinib, gemcitabine with capecitabine, gemcitabine with cisplatin, and gemcitabine with nab-paclitaxel. If you're in fairly good health you may receive FOLFIRINOX (5- FU/leucovorin/oxaliplatin/irinotecan). Other combinations include gemcitabine alone or with another agent like (nab)-paclitaxel or capecitabine. Next line drug combinations to treat pancreatic cancer include oxaliplatin/fluoropyrimidine, or irinotecan liposome ( Onivyde) in combination with fluorouracil plus leucovorin.


Question: What can help resectable pancreatic cancer?

Answer: If pancreatic cancer is resectable, surgery followed by chemotherapy or radiation or both may extend survival.


Question: How is advanced pancreatic cancer treated?

Answer: 1 priority of treatment will shift from extending life to alleviating symptoms, especially pain. Numerous treatments can help protect against the discomfort from advanced pancreatic cancer: Procedures like bile duct stents can relieve jaundice, thus reducing itching and loss of appetite associated with bile obstruction. Opioid analgesics and a nerve block called a celiac plexus block can help relieve pain. Antidepressants and counseling can help treat depression common in advanced pancreatic cancer.


Question: How is metastatic pancreatic cancer treated?

Answer: In metastatic pancreatic cancer, surgery is used only for symptom control, such as for pain, jaundice, or gastric outlet obstruction. Radiation may be used for symptom relief, as well. Chemotherapy can also help improve pancreatic cancer symptoms and survival. Gemcitabine has been the most widely used chemotherapy drug for treating metastatic pancreas cancer. Other drug combinations include gemcitabine with erlotinib, gemcitabine with capecitabine, gemcitabine with cisplatin, and gemcitabine with nab-paclitaxel. If you're in fairly good health you may receive FOLFIRINOX (5- FU/leucovorin/oxaliplatin/irinotecan). Other combinations include gemcitabine alone or with another agent like (nab)-paclitaxel or capecitabine. Next line drug combinations to treat pancreatic cancer include oxaliplatin/fluoropyrimidine, or irinotecan liposome ( Onivyde) in combination with fluorouracil plus leucovorin.


Question: How is a distal pancreatectomy done to treat resectable pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Distal pancreatectomy: The tail and/or portion of the body of the pancreas are removed, but not the head. This surgery is uncommon for pancreatic cancer, because most tumors arising outside the head of the pancreas within the body or tail are unresectable.


Question: What is stage III pancreatic cancer?

Answer: The tumor may have expanded into nearby major blood vessels or nerves, but has not metastasized to distant sites.


Question: What is total pancreatectomy?

Answer: Total pancreatectomy: The entire pancreas and the spleen is surgically removed. Although once considered useful, this operation is uncommon today.


Question: What does metastatic pancreatic cancer mean?

Answer: Pancreatic cancer has spread to distant organs.


Question: What does palliative treatment for pancreatic cancer consist of?

Answer: 1 priority of treatment will shift from extending life to alleviating symptoms, especially pain. Numerous treatments can help protect against the discomfort from advanced pancreatic cancer: Procedures like bile duct stents can relieve jaundice, thus reducing itching and loss of appetite associated with bile obstruction. Opioid analgesics and a nerve block called a celiac plexus block can help relieve pain. Antidepressants and counseling can help treat depression common in advanced pancreatic cancer.


Question: What is stage I pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Pancreatic cancer is limited to the pancreas, but has grown to less than 2 centimeters across (stage IA) or greater than 2 but no more than 4 centimeters (stage IB).


Question: Are there clinical trials available for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: New pancreatic cancer treatments are constantly being tested in clinical trials. You can find out about clinical trials for the latest treatments for pancreatic cancer on the websites of the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute.


Question: How is a Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy) done to treat resectable pancreatic cancer?

Answer: People whose pancreatic cancer is considered resectable may undergo one of three surgeries: Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy): A surgeon removes the head of the pancreas and sometimes the body of the pancreas, parts of the stomach and small intestine, some lymph nodes, the gallbladder, and the common bile duct. The remaining organs are reconnected in a new way to allow digestion. The Whipple procedure is a difficult and complicated surgery. Surgeons and hospitals that do the most operations have the best results. About half the time, once a surgeon sees inside the abdomen, pancreatic cancer that was thought to be resectable turns out to have spread, and thus be unresectable. The Whipple procedure is not completed in these cases.


Question: How is locally advanced (unresectable) pancreatic cancer treated?

Answer: In locally advanced pancreatic cancer, surgery can't remove the entire tumor. Since surgery to remove only part of the pancreatic cancer has been shown not to help, nonsurgical therapies are best. Treatment consists of chemotherapy with or without radiation therapy. Either 5- FU or gemcitabine can extend life in people with locally advanced pancreatic cancer.


Question: What chemotherapy drugs can be used for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy or both can also be used in conjunction with surgery for resectable and unresectable pancreatic cancer in order to: Shrink pancreatic cancer before surgery, improving the chances of resection (neoadjuvant therapy) Prevent or delay pancreatic cancer from returning after surgery (adjuvant therapy) Chemotherapy includes cancer drugs that travel through the whole body. Chemotherapy ("chemo") kills pancreatic cancer cells in the main tumor as well as those that have spread widely. These chemotherapy drugs can be used for pancreatic cancer: 5-fluorouracil (5- FU) or capecitabine Gemcitabine Both 5- FU and gemcitabine are given into the veins during regular visits to an oncologist (cancer doctor). An oral drug, capecitabine, may be substituted for 5- FU, especially with radiation.


Question: How is total pancreatectomy done to treat resectable pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Total pancreatectomy: The entire pancreas and the spleen is surgically removed. Although once considered useful, this operation is uncommon today.


Question: How is chemotherapy or radiation therapy used to treat resectable pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy or both can also be used in conjunction with surgery for resectable and unresectable pancreatic cancer in order to: Shrink pancreatic cancer before surgery, improving the chances of resection (neoadjuvant therapy) Prevent or delay pancreatic cancer from returning after surgery (adjuvant therapy) Chemotherapy includes cancer drugs that travel through the whole body.


Question: How is pancreatic cancer surgery described?

Answer: Since surgery has risks, doctors first determine whether pancreatic cancer appears to be removable by surgery (resectable). Pancreatic cancer is then described as follows: Resectable: On imaging tests, pancreatic cancer hasn't spread (or at least not far), and a surgeon feels it might all be removable. About 10% of pancreatic cancers are considered resectable when first diagnosed. Locally advanced (unresectable): Pancreatic cancer has grown into major blood vessels on imaging tests, so the tumor can't safely be removed by surgery. Metastatic: Pancreatic cancer has clearly spread to other organs, so surgery cannot remove the cancer.


Question: What is done before surgery for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Since surgery has risks, doctors first determine whether pancreatic cancer appears to be removable by surgery (resectable). Pancreatic cancer is then described as follows: Resectable: On imaging tests, pancreatic cancer hasn't spread (or at least not far), and a surgeon feels it might all be removable.


Question: What is Stage 0 pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Pancreatic cancer is limited to top layers of cells in the ducts of the pancreas. The pancreatic cancer is not visible on imaging tests or even to the naked eye.


Question: In what cases is a Whipple procedure unsuccessful?

Answer: About half the time, once a surgeon sees inside the abdomen, pancreatic cancer that was thought to be resectable turns out to have spread, and thus be unresectable.


Question: What is stage II pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Pancreatic cancer is over 4 centimeters and is either limited to the pancreas or there is local spread where the cancer has grown outside of the pancreas, or has spread to nearby lymph nodes.


Question: What does resectable pancreatic cancer mean?

Answer: Pancreatic cancer is then described as follows: Resectable: On imaging tests, pancreatic cancer hasn't spread (or at least not far), and a surgeon feels it might all be removable. About 10% of pancreatic cancers are considered resectable when first diagnosed.


Question: How does radiation therapy work to treat pancreatic cancer?

Answer: In radiation therapy, a machine beams high-energy X-rays to the pancreas to kill pancreatic cancer cells. Radiation therapy is done during a series of daily treatments, usually over a period of weeks.


Question: What does locally advanced (unresectable) pancreatic cancer mean?

Answer: Locally advanced (unresectable): Pancreatic cancer has grown into major blood vessels on imaging tests, so the tumor can't safely be removed by surgery.


Question: How is locally advanced pancreatic cancer treated?

Answer: In locally advanced pancreatic cancer, surgery can't remove the entire tumor. Since surgery to remove only part of the pancreatic cancer has been shown not to help, nonsurgical therapies are best. Treatment consists of chemotherapy with or without radiation therapy. Either 5- FU or gemcitabine can extend life in people with locally advanced pancreatic cancer.


Question: Can chemotherapy or radiation therapy be used along with surgery for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Chemotherapy or radiation therapy or both can also be used in conjunction with surgery for resectable and unresectable pancreatic cancer in order to: Shrink pancreatic cancer before surgery, improving the chances of resection (neoadjuvant therapy) Prevent or delay pancreatic cancer from returning after surgery (adjuvant therapy) Chemotherapy includes cancer drugs that travel through the whole body.


Question: What is stage IV pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Pancreatic cancer has spread to distant organs.


Question: What is the role of surgery and radiation for metastatic pancreatic cancer?

Answer: In metastatic pancreatic cancer, surgery is used only for symptom control, such as for pain, jaundice, or gastric outlet obstruction. Radiation may be used for symptom relief, as well.


Question: What is a Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy)?

Answer: People whose pancreatic cancer is considered resectable may undergo one of three surgeries: Whipple procedure (pancreaticoduodenectomy): A surgeon removes the head of the pancreas and sometimes the body of the pancreas, parts of the stomach and small intestine, some lymph nodes, the gallbladder, and the common bile duct. The remaining organs are reconnected in a new way to allow digestion. The Whipple procedure is a difficult and complicated surgery. Surgeons and hospitals that do the most operations have the best results.


Question: How can my doctor help me manage fatigue with rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Ask your doctor about medications. If fatigue hits often, talk to your doctor. If you can't get to sleep, prescription sleep aids could help you get a full night's rest. The doctor can also test your blood to make sure it's not another condition making you tired.


Question: How can a sleep routine help me manage fatigue with rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Stick to a sleep routine. Good habits help you get enough rest so you feel less fatigue the next day. Go to bed at the same time each night. Get up at the same time each morning. Cut back on caffeine, alcoholic drinks, and nicotine. All of these can disrupt your sleep. Fight the urge to take an afternoon nap. Sleeping during the day can make it harder for you to nod off at night. When it's time for lights out, turn off devices like your smartphone or tablet. You'll rest better in a dark, quiet room.


Question: How can counseling or therapy help me manage fatigue with rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Cognitive behavioral therapy or counseling with a mental health professional can ease the stress that worsens your fatigue. It can also help you control how fatigue affects your life.


Question: What alternative treatments should I explore to help manage fatigue with rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Massage therapy often eases stress and anxiety. It helps you let go of your thoughts and get to sleep. Acupuncture also works for many people. Talk to your doctor before you take any herbal treatment or try any nonmedical therapy.


Question: How does eating the right food help me manage fatigue with rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in foods like nuts and cold-water fish, help ease fatigue by reducing inflammation. Start your day with a healthy breakfast, even if you wake up tired. Choose foods that are rich in fiber, complex carbohydrates, and lean protein. A bowl of high-fiber cereal, fresh fruit, and low-fat milk can give you more energy for the rest of your day.


Question: How does regular exercise help me manage fatigue with rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Get regular exercise. The last thing you may want to do is work out. But activity lowers fatigue if you have RA. Simple things like a daily walk or a swim can build stronger muscles and soothe achy joints. Try to do something, even if you just stretch, even on days when you're really tired. Yoga and tai chi are two gentle activities that help ease fatigue and lower stress that can keep you awake.


Question: What will your occupational therapist do during your appointment?

Answer: Your OT may: Prescribe and train you to use assistive devices like raised toilet seats or wheelchairs Teach you new ways to button a shirt, tie your shoes, get in and out of the shower, or work on your computer Help older adults prevent falls in their home or in public areas Treat adults who've had a stroke to improve balance, change their home to prevent injuries, build muscle strength, or adapt to their memory or speech problems Organize your medications or household tools Address behavior problems in kids who act out or hit others Build hand-eye coordination so you can hit a tennis ball Work on motor skills so you can grasp a pencil Just about anyone who struggles to do any kind of task may need it.


Question: How can occupational therapy (OT) help you?

Answer: It can help you do specific things like: Eat without help from others Take part in leisure activities Do office work Bathe and get dressed Do laundry or clean up around the house They get special graduate training in occupational therapy.


Question: What is involved in occupational therapy (OT)?

Answer: You'll meet with a health professional called an occupational therapist who can come up with ways to change your movements so you can get your work done, take care of yourself or your home, play sports, or stay active.


Question: What training does an occupatinal therapist get?

Answer: It can help you do specific things like: Eat without help from others Take part in leisure activities Do office work Bathe and get dressed Do laundry or clean up around the house They get special graduate training in occupational therapy. You'll probably hear them called OTs. They must be licensed and pass a national exam to be certified to practice. Some OTs go through more training so they can focus on certain types of treatment, like hand therapy, treating people with low vision, or working with children or older adults.


Question: Who needs occupational therapy (OT)?

Answer: If you have one of these health problems, ask your doctor if OT could help you: Arthritis and chronic pain Stroke Brain injury Joint replacement Spinal cord injury Low vision Alzheimer's disease Poor balance Cancer Diabetes Multiple sclerosis Cerebral palsy Mental health or behavior issues It can also help kids with birth defects, ADHD, juvenile arthritis, autism, or severe injuries or burns.


Question: What is an occupational therapy assistant?

Answer: Some OTs go through more training so they can focus on certain types of treatment, like hand therapy, treating people with low vision, or working with children or older adults. Occupational therapy assistants help with some parts of your treatment. They don't assess you or create your therapy plan. An OT assistant needs an associate's degree. OT's and OTA's often work with your doctor, physical therapist, psychologist, or other health professionals.


Question: What is high cholesterol?

Answer: Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance made in the liver and other cells. It's also found in certain foods, such as dairy products, eggs, and meat. Your body needs some cholesterol to produce hormones, vitamin D, and the bile acids that help you digest fat. But the body only needs a limited amount of cholesterol. When there's too much, health problems, such as heart disease, may develop.


Question: What kind of cholesterol is bad for you?

Answer: The cholesterol that blocks arteries is called low-density lipoprotein, or LDL. Another kind of cholesterol called high-density lipoprotein or HDL is known as good cholesterol because it helps remove LDL from the blood and eventually from the body. For good health, you ideally want to keep the LDL levels down and the HDL levels up. If this balance isn't maintained, especially if it's reversed, you are said to have high cholesterol.


Question: Can exercise help prevent high cholesterol?

Answer: Your risk of having high cholesterol increases if: Your diet is high in saturated fat. These fats, found in meat and full-fat dairy products, raise LDL cholesterol. Dietary cholesterol, found in eggs and organ meats, can also raise blood cholesterol levels, but not as much as saturated fat does.


Question: How does high cholesterol affect men?

Answer: For many men, the risk from high cholesterol starts in their 20s and increases with age.


Question: What can you do to control both psoriasis and diabetes?

Answer: Some lifestyle changes can help you control both your psoriasis and diabetes.


Question: How can asking questions help with psoriasis and diabetes?

Answer: Learn about the drugs you take, their side effects, and how long you'll need to be on them. If you don't understand something or have concerns about anything, ask your doctor.


Question: How can treatments for psoriasis affect diabetes?

Answer: In some cases, she may be able to give you medicine that helps keep both health issues in check. For instance, some people who take a type 2 diabetes drug called a glucagon-like peptide-1 ( GLP-1) notice that their skin gets better. This may be because it slows down your immune system. That helps ease inflammation throughout your body. On the other hand, some drugs that treat psoriasis can raise your blood sugar and make your diabetes harder to control. That means your doctor probably won't give you corticosteroids (steroids) or cyclosporine, which are both used to calm inflammation.


Question: How can eating healthily help with psoriasis and diabetes?

Answer: Certain foods like fruits, veggies, and whole grains can help control your diabetes and psoriasis. Others (like sugary treats and alcohol) will make them worse. Ask a dietitian or nutritionist to help you plan healthy meals.


Question: Can an infection cause low levels of white blood cells?

Answer: Infection: Viruses can affect your bone marrow and cause low WBCs for a while. Severe infections, like blood infections, can lead to your body using up WBCs faster than it can make them. HIV kills a specific kind of white blood cell.


Question: How does your doctor check how many white blood cells you have?

Answer: Your doctor measures how many of these cells you have by sending some of your blood to a lab to do a complete blood count, or CBC. Your white blood cell count is one of the numbers you get back from this test.


Question: Can medicines cause low levels of white blood cells?

Answer: Medicines: Some drugs, including antibiotics, can destroy WBCs.


Question: Can poor nutrition cause low levels of white blood cells?

Answer: Nutrition: Not eating well or low levels of certain vitamins, such as folic acid and B12, can affect how your body makes WBCs. Alcohol abuse can mess with the nutrients in your body and with WBC counts, too.


Question: How can spleen problems cause low levels of white blood cells?

Answer: Spleen problems: The spleen also makes WBCs. Infections, blood clots, and other problems can make it swell and not work the way it should. This will drop your WBC count.


Question: What is the normal range of how many white blood cells a person has?

Answer: A blood test that shows a WBC count of less than 4,000 per microliter (some labs say less than 4,500) could mean your body may not be able to fight infection the way it should.


Question: What are other causes of low libido besides low testosterone?

Answer: Low testosterone is only one of the causes of low libido. Stress, sleep deprivation, depression, and chronic medical illnesses can also sap a man's sex drive.


Question: Can you prevent breast cancer?

Answer: While there is no definitive way to prevent breast cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk: Maintain a healthy weight. Be physically active and get at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise five or more days per week. Eat a healthy diet with at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily; limit the amount of processed meat and red meat eaten. Women should drink no more than one alcoholic beverage daily (men should drink no more than two alcoholic beverages daily).


Question: Does hormone replacement therapy (HRT) increase the risk of breast cancer?

Answer: Other risk factors include: Having cancer in one breast (may recur or develop in other) Having a history of ovarian, uterine, or colon cancer Having a genetic abnormality such as a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation Late menopause (after age 55) Starting menstruation early in life (before age 12) Having a first child after age 30 Never having children Being overweight or obese after menopause Evidence suggests that the longer a woman is exposed to female hormones (either made by the body, taken as a drug, or delivered by a patch), the more likely she is to develop breast cancer. Hormone replacement therapy may be given to postmenopausal women who have menopausal symptoms. The longer a woman is on HRT with a combination of estrogen and progestin, the greater her chances may be of being diagnosed with breast cancer. It is unclear if HRT with estrogen alone, which is sometimes prescribed for women who have had a hysterectomy, increases the risk of breast cancer.


Question: What are the the risk factors associated with breast cancer?

Answer: Certain factors increase the risk of developing breast cancer. However, having many risk factors does not mean a woman will develop breast cancer, and having no risk factors does not mean she will not develop the disease. Age is the single-most important risk factor for breast cancer. The chances of developing the disease increase with age. About 95% of women diagnosed with breast cancer each year are over age 40, and about half are age 61 and older. Personal risk is also greater if an immediate family member (mother, sister, or daughter) has had breast cancer, particularly if it was at an early age. Also, women who have had a breast biopsy (removal of breast tissue) that shows certain types of benign disease, such as atypical hyperplasia, are more likely to get breast cancer.


Question: What are some other risk factors for breast cancer?

Answer: Other risk factors include: Having cancer in one breast (may recur or develop in other) Having a history of ovarian, uterine, or colon cancer Having a genetic abnormality such as a BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation Late menopause (after age 55) Starting menstruation early in life (before age 12) Having a first child after age 30 Never having children Being overweight or obese after menopause Evidence suggests that the longer a woman is exposed to female hormones (either made by the body, taken as a drug, or delivered by a patch), the more likely she is to develop breast cancer.


Question: What is the link between menopause and breast cancer?

Answer: However, the rates of many cancers, including breast cancer, do increase with age. In addition, some of the drugs used to manage menopausal symptoms may increase or decrease a person's cancer risk. Certain factors increase the risk of developing breast cancer.


Question: How often should you get a breast exam?

Answer: The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ( ACOG) recommends that women in their 20s and 30s have a health care provider perform a breast exam every one to three years and then every year once they turn 40. The ACS states that research has not shown a clear benefit of performing regular breast self-exams. Women who choose to perform breast self-exams should have their technique reviewed during an exam by a healthcare provider. Any change in their breasts noted on breast self-exams should be reported promptly to a doctor. Women who are considered to have an increased risk for breast cancer may benefit from getting a yearly MRI of their breasts along with their yearly mammogram. Three-dimensional mammography may also be an option for some women. To find out if you are at increased risk for breast cancer, consult your doctor.


Question: What are bedsores?

Answer: Bedsores: Bedsores (also known as pressure ulcers) are skin ulcers that develop from pressure when people lie in bed or sit in a chair for long periods of time. Bedsores are a fairly common problem in people who have trouble moving on their own. People with diabetes are more prone to bedsores because of their poor circulation and decreased feeling in their skin. Frequent rotation or re-positioning helps to prevent bedsores.


Question: Do I need to call a doctor if I use emergency contraception

Answer: You don't have to call a doctor after using emergency contraception, but if you have questions or anything worries you, go ahead. You don't need any routine follow-up exam or tests. If your next period is more than a week late, you should take a pregnancy test.


Question: What emergency contraception pills contain the hormone  levonorgestrel?

Answer: Pills containing a hormone called levonorgestrel: My Way (over-the-counter) Plan B One- Step (over-the-counter) Preventeza (over-the-counter) Take Action (over-the-counter) Birth control pills can also be used as emergency contraception, but you have to take more than one pill at a time to keep from getting pregnant.


Question: What foods are rich in phytochemicals?

Answer: Food sources: Apples, apricots, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, garlic, legumes, onions, red peppers, soybeans, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes.


Question: What are the most important nutrients to get if you have a cold?

Answer: Antioxidants -- which include beta carotene and vitamins C and E -- are essential nutrients and can help keep your immune system strong. They help protect your body on the inside.


Question: What foods are high in phytochemicals?

Answer: Foods high in phytochemicals are also important for wellness. Phytochemicals are in all plants, so a diet that includes a variety of grains, fruits, and vegetables will give you these healthy substances.


Question: What foods are rich in carotenoids?

Answer: Foods rich in vitamin C include: broccoli, cantaloupe, cauliflower, kale, kiwi, orange juice, papaya, red, green or yellow pepper, sweet potato, strawberries, and tomatoes.


Question: Does chicken soup help fight colds?

Answer: Chicken soup appears to help fight colds in at least two research studies. It helps clear nasal congestion as well as thin mucus so you can better cough it up. Also, research shows it may have a mild anti-inflammatory effect that can help ease cold symptoms.


Question: How can I add more antioxidants to my diet?

Answer: The best way to include them in your diet is to eat more fruits and vegetables. If you cook them, use as little liquid as possible to keep the nutrients in the food.


Question: What foods are high in glutathione?

Answer: Glutathione is another nutrient that helps the immune system work well so it can fight infections. Food sources: You can get it from broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, and other cruciferous vegetables.


Question: Does hot tea help fight colds?

Answer: Drinking hot tea is another great old home remedy. Hot tea helps to thin mucus and ensure proper hydration of the body. Green and black teas are filled with flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants.


Question: What foods are rich in vitamin C?

Answer: Foods rich in vitamin C include: broccoli, cantaloupe, cauliflower, kale, kiwi, orange juice, papaya, red, green or yellow pepper, sweet potato, strawberries, and tomatoes.


Question: What foods are high in bioflavonoids?

Answer: Foods high in bioflavonoids may also help you stay healthy. Research shows that these key nutrients help to boost immune system activation. These natural substances accompany vitamin C in plants and act as an antioxidant. Food sources: You can find bioflavonoids in the pulp and white core that runs through the center of citrus fruits, green peppers, lemons, limes, oranges, cherries, and grapes. Quercetin is a highly concentrated bioflavonoid found in broccoli, citrus fruits, and red and yellow onions.


Question: Are cold compresses good for shingles?

Answer: Cold compresses: Run a washcloth under cool water and place it on your blisters for about 20 minutes at a time. Not only can this relieve itching, it also keeps your blisters clean. That helps you avoid a skin infection. A couple of important notes: If your blisters aren't oozing anymore, stop using cold compresses If you are using any creams or patches on your rash, don't use compresses at the same time 3.


Question: Is it OK to exercise when you have shingles?

Answer: To give it the right support, you can: Eat nutritious food and have regular meals. Ask someone to make a run to the grocery store for fresh fruit and such if you're not up for it. Try to get a good night's sleep and rest anytime you need to. Do gentle exercises, such as walking or stretching. Light activity can help take your mind off the pain. Keep it simple though, and check with your doctor if you're trying something new.


Question: What medications can make you lose potassium?

Answer: Some diuretics for heart failure can make you lose potassium in your pee. If you are taking one, have your levels checked. If yours are low, you can raise them by taking a supplement or eating more potassium-rich foods.


Question: What medications can raise your levels of potassium?

Answer: Some medications can raise your levels, including some ACE inhibitors, spironolactone ( Aldactone), triamterene, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole ( Bactrim).


Question: Does DNA fingerprinting have medical uses?

Answer: Identify diseases that are passed down through your family. Help find cures for those diseases, called hereditary conditions.


Question: How do men with prostate cancer get chemotherapy?

Answer: Generally, chemotherapy drugs are given intravenously (directly into the vein) or by mouth. Once the drugs are absorbed, they enter the bloodstream and travel to virtually all parts of the body to reach cancer cells that may have spread beyond the prostate.


Question: What are high-risk HPV strains?

Answer: Not all of the 40 sexually transmitted HPV viruses cause serious health problems. High-risk HPV strains include HPV 16 and 18, which cause about 70% of cervical cancers. Other high-risk HPV viruses include 31, 33, 45, 52, 58, and a few others.


Question: What are low-risk HPV strains?

Answer: Low-risk HPV strains, such as HPV 6 and 11, cause about 90% of genital warts, which rarely develop into cancer. These growths can look like bumps. Sometimes, they’re shaped like cauliflower. The warts can show up weeks or months after you’ve had sex with an infected partner.


Question: What are the symptoms of HPV infection?

Answer: Often, there are no symptoms of an HPV infection, and the body clears the infection on its own in a few years. Many people never know they were infected. But sometimes an infection with high-risk types of HPV will last longer. This can cause changes in the cells of the cervix that could lead to cancer including vulvar cancer. The same thing could cause abnormal changes in cells of the penis and anus, but this is rare.


Question: How can you prevent HPV?

Answer: You can get HPV through sex (vaginal, anal, or oral). It spreads through skin-to-skin contact. HPV can infect skin not normally covered by a condom, so using one won’t fully protect you. You can’t get HPV from a toilet seat, swimming pools, or from an infected person’s blood. The only way to avoid all risk of any type of HPV infection is to never be sexually active -- no vaginal, anal, or oral sex. To lower your risk, you can also limit the number of sex partners you have. You can also choose partners who've had few or no sex partners before you. Three vaccines -- Cervarix, Gardasil, and Gardasil-9 -- protect against HPV. They’re available to boys and girls as young as 9 and adults up to age 26. The vaccines focus on some of the higher-risk types of HPV. All three guard against HPV 16 and 18. Gardasil and Gardasil-9 are also effective against HPV 6 and 11, which cause most genital warts. Gardasil-9 also covers against the high-risk strains 31, 33, 45, 52, 58.


Question: How can antidepressants cause sexual problems?

Answer: Many men and women with depression tell of having low or no sexual desire. And that puts a tremendous strain on intimate relationships. As helpful as antidepressants are in boosting a person's mood or sense of self-worth, some types of antidepressants -- for example, the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ( SSRIs) -- can have undesirable side effects. Those side effects can result in sexual problems. Antidepressants help boost mood in people with depression by altering the functioning of brain chemicals (neurotransmitters). But the same chemicals are involved in the sexual response.


Question: Is acupuncture safe?

Answer: The FDA regulates the equipment and requires that practitioners use each needle only once. You should be able to see your acupuncturist take each individual needle out of a sterile packet. Clean needles make sure that more serious side effects like infection with HIV or hepatitis B won't happen.


Question: How many needles do acupuncture treatments use?

Answer: Most acupuncture treatments use between five and 15 needles. They're hollow and so slender that you may not even feel them when the practitioner puts them into your skin.


Question: What is the treatment for breast cancer recurrence?

Answer: The type of treatment you get for local breast cancer recurrences depends on the type of treatment you got at first. If you had a lumpectomy, local recurrence is usually treated with a mastectomy. If you had a mastectomy, recurrence near the mastectomy site is treated by removing the tumor if possible, usually followed by radiation. In either case, you may have hormone therapy, chemotherapy, or radiation after surgery. Sometimes, you doctor will use a combination. If breast cancer is found in the other breast, it may be a new tumor unrelated to the first breast cancer. This would be treated like a new case of breast cancer. You would get either a lumpectomy or mastectomy, followed by more treatments if necessary. If the cancer comes back in another part of the body, such as the bones, lungs, liver, or brain, you may get surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, or a combination. It depends on your specific situation. Doctors may recommend that women whose cancer cells have high levels of the HER2 protein undergo targeted therapy, alone or with chemotherapy, with one of these drugs: Ado-trastuzumab emtansine ( Kadcyla) Lapatinib ( Tykerb) Neratinib ( Nerlynx) Pertuzumab ( Perjeta) Trastuzumab ( Herceptin) Immunotherapy stimulates you own immune system to find and destroy cancer cells.


Question: How often should you see your doctor to check for breast cancer recurrence?

Answer: At first, your follow-up appointments may be every 3 to 4 months. The longer you are cancer-free, the less often you will need to see your doctor.


Question: What are the risk factors for a breast cancer recurrence?

Answer: Tumor size. The larger the tumor was, the greater the chance of recurrence. Cancer spread. If your breast cancer had spread to your lymph nodes, the more lymph nodes that had cancer cells, the more likely your risk of recurrence. Your risk is also higher if cancer cells were found in the lymph vessels or blood vessels of your breast. Hormone receptors . About two-thirds of all breast cancers have receptors for estrogen (called ER+) or progesterone ( PR+) or both types. HER2. This gene triggers the growth of cancer cells. Histologic grade. This term refers to how much the tumor cells resemble normal cells when viewed under the microscope. The higher the histologic grade, the higher the odds of recurrence. Nuclear grade. This is the rate at which cancer cells in the tumor divide to form more cells. Cancer cells with a high nuclear grade are usually more aggressive (faster growing).


Question: How do you know if there is a recurrence of breast cancer?

Answer: You should keep doing breast self-exams, checking the treated area and your other breast each month. You should tell your doctor about any changes right away. Also, keep getting regular mammograms. In some screening centers, three-dimensional mammograms are available in addition to traditional digital mammograms. If genetic tests show you have the BRCA mutations, you may also need an MRI of your breast. Talk to your doctor about the best screening tests for you.


Question: What does breast cancer recurrence mean?

Answer: For some women it does, and for others it doesn't. When breast cancer comes back, it's called recurrence.


Question: What breast changes might be a recurrence?

Answer: Breast changes that might be a recurrence include: A lump or thickening in or near the breast or in the underarm that doesn't go away after your period A change in the size, shape, or contour of the breast A marble-like area under the skin A change in the feel or appearance of the skin on the breast or nipple, including skin that is dimpled, puckered, scaly, red, warm, or swollen Blood or clear fluid coming out of a nipple Along with monthly breast self-exams, you should go to follow-up appointments with your doctor.


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

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


Question: How can a healthy diet affect ADHD symptoms?

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


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

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


Question: Is there research to support the Feingold diet?

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


Question: What is the Feingold diet designed to do?

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


Question: What is the history of the Feingold diet?

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


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

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


Question: Do certain foods or drinks trigger migraines?

Answer: In some people, certain foods and drinks -- or things they contain -- can trigger a migraine. One well-accepted migraine trigger is tyramine.


Question: How can you check if tyramine is causing your migraine?

Answer: It can help you and your doctor find out if tyramine or some other trigger is to blame for your migraines. Take note of the time and date the headache starts. Then answer these questions: How exactly does the migraine feel? Where does the migraine episode fall in your menstrual cycle? What have you eaten recently? Have you been exposed to other common headache triggers, such as a change in altitude, change in temperature, strong smells, bright lights, loud noises, changes in sleep habits, or unusual stress? Remember, headaches may not start for 24 hours after you eat certain trigger foods. That's why including the foods you've eaten during the past day or two may help you figure out if tyramine is part of the problem.


Question: Which foods have tyramine?

Answer: It's especially found in aged and fermented foods, such as: Aged cheeses Smoked fish Cured meats Some types of beer Also, foods high in protein may contain more tyramine if: They have been stored for a long time They have not been kept cold enough Because of its chemical structure, tyramine is called a monoamine.


Question: Do foods high in protein contain tyramine?

Answer: It's especially found in aged and fermented foods, such as: Aged cheeses Smoked fish Cured meats Some types of beer Also, foods high in protein may contain more tyramine if: They have been stored for a long time They have not been kept cold enough Because of its chemical structure, tyramine is called a monoamine.


Question: When did researchers start suspecting that tyramine was related to migraine?

Answer: People taking the drugs began to get headaches and high blood pressure when they ate foods containing tyramine.


Question: Do experts fully understand how tyramine triggers migraines?

Answer: Experts are still trying to understand how tyramine triggers migraines. One explanation is that it causes nerve cells in your brain to release the chemical norepinephrine. Having higher levels of tyramine in your system -- along with an unusual level of brain chemicals -- can cause changes in the brain that lead to headaches.


Question: How can I check if tyramine is triggering my headache?

Answer: It can help you and your doctor find out if tyramine or some other trigger is to blame for your migraines. Take note of the time and date the headache starts. Then answer these questions: How exactly does the migraine feel? Where does the migraine episode fall in your menstrual cycle? What have you eaten recently? Have you been exposed to other common headache triggers, such as a change in altitude, change in temperature, strong smells, bright lights, loud noises, changes in sleep habits, or unusual stress? Remember, headaches may not start for 24 hours after you eat certain trigger foods. That's why including the foods you've eaten during the past day or two may help you figure out if tyramine is part of the problem.


Question: What foods contain tyramine?

Answer: It's especially found in aged and fermented foods, such as: Aged cheeses Smoked fish Cured meats Some types of beer Also, foods high in protein may contain more tyramine if: They have been stored for a long time They have not been kept cold enough Because of its chemical structure, tyramine is called a monoamine.


Question: How can tyramine trigger migraines?

Answer: Experts are still trying to understand how tyramine triggers migraines. One explanation is that it causes nerve cells in your brain to release the chemical norepinephrine. Having higher levels of tyramine in your system -- along with an unusual level of brain chemicals -- can cause changes in the brain that lead to headaches.


Question: What problems might caused by melatonin supplements taken with some medicines?

Answer: Doctors are also studying to see if melatonin can help with: Alzheimer's disease Cancer Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS) High nighttime blood pressure Sleep problems in children with autism spectrum disorders While melatonin generally brings fewer side effects than other sleep medicines, you could still have: Daytime sleepiness Headache Dizziness Stomach discomfort Anxiety Crankiness A "heavy head" feeling Short-lived depression Melatonin supplements might cause problems if you take them with some medicines, including: Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) Drugs that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressants) Diabetes drugs Birth control pills Tell your doctor if you're thinking about taking any supplement, especially if you take any medicine or have a health condition.


Question: How well does melatonin work?

Answer: Some studies say it could help with jet lag and some sleep issues like delayed sleep phase disorder, shift work disorder, and some sleep disorders with children. Other research shows it may let people with insomnia fall asleep slightly faster. It may also help you sleep better through the night, but not necessarily longer. Still more studies have shown that melatonin doesn't help sleep problems at all. There's also not enough research to say it helps with any issues not related to sleep.


Question: What are side effects of melatonin?

Answer: Doctors are also studying to see if melatonin can help with: Alzheimer's disease Cancer Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS) High nighttime blood pressure Sleep problems in children with autism spectrum disorders While melatonin generally brings fewer side effects than other sleep medicines, you could still have: Daytime sleepiness Headache Dizziness Stomach discomfort Anxiety Crankiness A "heavy head" feeling Short-lived depression Melatonin supplements might cause problems if you take them with some medicines, including: Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) Drugs that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressants) Diabetes drugs Birth control pills Tell your doctor if you're thinking about taking any supplement, especially if you take any medicine or have a health condition.


Question: Why should you talk to your doctor first before taking melatonin supplements?

Answer: Doctors are also studying to see if melatonin can help with: Alzheimer's disease Cancer Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS) High nighttime blood pressure Sleep problems in children with autism spectrum disorders While melatonin generally brings fewer side effects than other sleep medicines, you could still have: Daytime sleepiness Headache Dizziness Stomach discomfort Anxiety Crankiness A "heavy head" feeling Short-lived depression Melatonin supplements might cause problems if you take them with some medicines, including: Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants) Drugs that suppress the immune system (immunosuppressants) Diabetes drugs Birth control pills Tell your doctor if you're thinking about taking any supplement, especially if you take any medicine or have a health condition.


Question: Who is more likely to get hepatitis C?

Answer: People with HIV are more likely to have hepatitis C. About one in 4 people in the U. S. who have HIV also have hepatitis C, according to the CDC. Having both makes serious, life-threatening complications -- including liver failure -- more likely.


Question: What should you do if you find out you have hepatitis C?

Answer: The CDC recommends hepatitis C testing if you: Were born between 1945 and 1965 Have used injected drugs Have HIV Were born to a mother who had hepatitis C Were treated for a blood clotting problem before 1987 Got a blood transfusion or organ transplant before July 1992 Have been a long-term hemodialysis patient Work in health care or public safety and were exposed to blood through a needle stick or other sharp object injury If you get tested and find out you have hepatitis C, tell your sex partner(s) and anyone else who may have been exposed to your blood, including through drug use.


Question: What can you do to prevent hepatitis C?

Answer: Without using condoms, the following situations increase your risk of getting hepatitis C from sex: If you or your partner have HIV or another sexually transmitted disease Have multiple sexual partners Have rough sex that could cause tears or fissures Receiving anal intercourse Sex while menstruating To lower your chances of getting infected by someone who has or may have hepatitis C or infecting your partner, avoid sex acts that could cause bleeding. These include using toys, receiving anal sex, and using drugs while having sex. Don't have sex when you or your partner has your period or has genital sores. Always use a condom when you have sex with a new partner. If you use a sex toy that might break the skin, cover it with a condom. Put a new one on before someone else uses the toy.


Question: What is trigeminal neuralgia?

Answer: This condition causes pain as a result of inflammation of a facial nerve. The pain is described as intense and lightning like, and it can occur in the lips, scalp, forehead, eye, nose, gums, cheek, and chin on one side of the face. The pain can be set off by touching a trigger area or by slight motion.


Question: What kind of pain is caused by nerve damage?

Answer: Damage to nerves can interfere with the way those signals are transmitted and cause pain signals that are abnormal. For instance, you may feel a burning sensation even though no heat is being applied to the area that burns. Nerves can be damaged by diseases such as diabetes, or they can be damaged by trauma. Certain chemotherapy drugs may cause nerve damage. Nerves can also be damaged as a result of stroke or an HIV infection, among other causes. The pain that comes from nerve damage could be the result of damage to the central nervous system ( CNS), which includes the brain and spinal cord. Or it could result from damage to peripheral nerves, those nerves in the rest of the body that send signals to the CNS. The pain caused by nerve damage, neuropathic pain, is often described as burning or prickling. Some people describe it as an electrical shock. Others describe it as pins and needles or as a stabbing sensation. Some people with nerve damage are often hypersensitive to temperature and to touch. Just a light touch, such as the touch of a bed sheet, can set off the pain.


Question: What happens due to pain caused by tissue damage?

Answer: The injury to body tissue can come from a disease such as cancer. Or it can come from physical injury such as a cut or a broken bone. The pain you experience may be an ache, a sharp stabbing, or a throbbing. It could come and go, or it could be constant. You may feel the pain worsen when you move or laugh. Sometimes, breathing deeply can intensify it. Pain from tissue damage can be acute. For example, sports injuries like a sprained ankle or turf toe are often the result of damage to soft tissue. Or it can be chronic, such as arthritis or chronic headaches. And certain medical treatments, such as radiation for cancer, can also cause tissue damage that results in pain.


Question: What is acute and chronic pain?

Answer: There are several ways to categorize pain. One is to separate it into acute pain and chronic pain. Acute pain typically comes on suddenly and has a limited duration. It's frequently caused by damage to tissue such as bone, muscle, or organs, and the onset is often accompanied by anxiety or emotional distress. Chronic pain lasts longer than acute pain and is generally somewhat resistant to medical treatment. It's usually associated with a long-term illness, such as osteoarthritis. In some cases, such as with fibromyalgia, it's one of the defining characteristic of the disease. Chronic pain can be the result of damaged tissue, but very often is attributable to nerve damage. Both acute and chronic pain can be debilitating, and both can affect and be affected by a person's state of mind. But the nature of chronic pain -- the fact that it's ongoing and in some cases seems almost constant -- makes the person who has it more susceptible to psychological consequences such as depression and anxiety. At the same time, psychological distress can amplify the pain. About 70% of people with chronic pain treated with pain medication experience episodes of what's called breakthrough pain. Breakthrough pain refers to flares of pain that occur even when pain medication is being used regularly. Sometimes it can be spontaneous or set off by a seemingly insignificant event such as rolling over in bed. And sometimes it may be the result of pain medication wearing off before it's time for the next dose.


Question: What is diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain?

Answer: This pain comes from nerve damage in the feet, legs, hands, or arms caused by diabetes. Individuals with diabetic neuropathy experience various kinds of pain including burning, stabbing, and tingling.


Question: What is complex regional pain syndrome?

Answer: This is a chronic pain syndrome that can follow a serious injury. It's described as persistent burning. Certain abnormalities such as abnormal sweating, changes in skin color, or swelling may be noticed in the area of the pain.


Question: What is central pain syndrome?

Answer: This syndrome is marked by chronic pain that stems from damage to the central nervous system. The damage can be caused by stroke, MS, tumors, and several other conditions. The pain, which is typically constant and may be severe, can affect a large part of the body or be confined to smaller areas such as the hands or feet. The pain often can be made worse by movement, touch, emotions, and temperature changes.


Question: How can a dentist tell when a wisdom teeth removal is needed?

Answer: Your dentist will look at the shape of your mouth and the position of your teeth to make a decision. Your age plays a role, too. Still not ready to part with your molars? You can ask your dentist to explain what he sees with your teeth. In many cases, you can wait several months to see if things change before making your decision. But if you have pain or notice swelling or a bad odor near your back teeth, it may be time for a second look.


Question: What are the symptoms of depersonalization disorder?

Answer: The primary symptom of depersonalization disorder is a distorted perception of the body. The person might feel like he or she is a robot or in a dream. Some people might fear they are going crazy and might become depressed, anxious, or panicky. For some people, the symptoms are mild and last for just a short time. For others, however, symptoms can be chronic (ongoing) and last or recur for many years, leading to problems with daily functioning or even to disability.


Question: What tests will my doctor do to see if I have ischemic colitis?

Answer: These include: The decongestant pseudoephedrine Some migraine and heart drugs Estrogen Ischemic colitis is a master of disguise. Its symptoms can mimic other conditions, including a flare of ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease. Those long-lasting conditions result from a problem with your immune system, not low blood flow. Doctors may ask for any of these tests to decide if you have ischemic colitis: Imaging tests, like CT scans and angiograms. These use X-rays at different angles to get a detailed image of your colon and blood vessels. Stool samples. Doctors look for infections that may be causing your symptoms. Colonoscopy. This test looks inside your colon.


Question: How is ischemic colitis treated?

Answer: If you have a mild case -- and most cases are mild -- the inner lining of your colon is inflamed, sore, and bleeding. It usually heals on its own, but you may get antibiotics to prevent infection. You'll probably get IV fluids to keep you hydrated. To give your colon a rest while it heals, you won't be able to drink or eat anything for a few days. If you have a more serious case, a surgeon may need to remove dead tissue or repair your bowel.


Question: What are the causes of ischemic colitis?

Answer: Surgery to repair an aortic aneurysm (a bulge in the artery) can lead to ischemic colitis. Other operations in your belly or your circulatory system can also cause problems. The risk also goes up if you're a long distance runner. During a marathon, blood flow may shift away from your gut to meet the oxygen needs of your leg muscles. Dehydration could play a role, too. It's rare, but some medications can trigger an ischemic colitis attack. These include: The decongestant pseudoephedrine Some migraine and heart drugs Estrogen Ischemic colitis is a master of disguise.


Question: What is ischemic colitis?

Answer: Ischemic colitis is inflammation in your large intestine, or colon. It results from a lack of blood flow to the area, usually because an artery is blocked or narrowed. You need blood flow to your colon because it brings oxygen that keeps your tissues alive. If the blockage goes on for too long, it can cause serious problems. But if you get treatment soon, you should heal quickly. Ischemic colitis is more common in people over 60, but younger folks can get it, too.


Question: How do I use a peak flow meter?

Answer: Here's what you do: Stand up or sit up straight. Make sure the indicator is at the bottom of the meter (zero). Take a deep breath in, filling the lungs completely. Place the mouthpiece in your mouth; lightly bite with your teeth and close your lips on it. Be sure your tongue is away from the mouthpiece. Blast the air out as hard and as fast as possible in a single blow. Remove the meter from your mouth. Record the number that appears on the meter and then repeat steps one through seven two more times. Record the highest of the three readings in an asthma diary.


Question: Why should I use a peak flow meter?

Answer: Readings from a peak flow meter can help you or your child recognize early changes that may be signs of worsening asthma. During an asthma attack, the smooth muscles that surround the airways tighten and cause the airways to narrow. The peak flow meter alerts you to the tightening of the airways often hours or even days before you have any asthma symptoms. By using your PEF with your asthma action plan, you will know when to take your rescue (quick acting) asthma inhaler or other asthma medicine.


Question: How do you determine your personal best peak flow number?

Answer: To find your personal best peak flow number, take peak flow readings: Twice a day for two to three weeks when asthma is in good control At the same time in the morning and in the early evening As instructed by your doctor or asthma care provider You should always use the same meter.


Question: Why should I use my peak flow meter every day?

Answer: Daily readings will help you: Recognize early drops in airflow Know when your child's personal best improves naturally as he or she grows If your PEF drops below 80% of your personal best, follow your asthma action plan and check PEF more frequently that day or as directed by your doctor.