Question: Can you eat before you have a lung biopsy?

Answer: You'll need to avoid coughing, and you may have to hold your breath. If you'll be awake during the procedure, you may be able to drink water in the morning.


Question: Can drinking fluids help with hypothermia?

Answer: If the person is not breathing, start CPR immediately. Avoid caffeine or alcohol.


Question: How effective is Ritalin in ADHD patients?

Answer: Parents sometimes worry whether the stimulant drugs their children are taking to treat ADHD (such as Ritalin and Adderall) are themselves addictive. When carefully taken as prescribed, though, Ritalin is less likely to be addictive in children or adults. It's important to remember that not everyone with ADHD will develop an alcohol or substance abuse problem.


Question: How similar is Ritalin to cocaine?

Answer: What's more, people with ADHD typically start having problems with drugs and alcohol at an earlier age than people without the condition. However, researchers have found marked differences between the two drugs. One of the factors that leads to addiction and drug abuse is how quickly a drug raises dopamine levels. The faster dopamine levels go up, the greater the potential for abuse. One researcher found that Ritalin takes about an hour to raise dopamine levels in the brain, compared to only seconds with inhaled cocaine. The doses of Ritalin and other stimulants used to treat ADHD tend to be lower and longer-acting, which reduces the risk of addiction. Long-term use of all stimulants can sometimes lead to a phenomenon called tolerance -- that is, higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect of a controlled substance. If and when this happens, a doctor may then be more likely to consider using nonstimulant medicines to treat ADHD.


Question: How should I prepare for electrophysiology (EP) study?

Answer: He may ask you to stop certain medications a few days beforehand. If you have diabetes, ask your doctor how you should adjust your diabetes medications. Don't eat or drink anything after midnight the evening before. If you must take medications, have them only with a small sip of water. Wear comfortable clothes to the hospital. Bring someone with you.


Question: What should I expect before a electrophysiology (EP) study?

Answer: First, you'll lie on a bed and a nurse will start an intravenous ( IV) line into your arm or hand. You will be given a drug through your IV to relax you and make you drowsy, but it may not put you to sleep. The nurse will connect you to several monitors. Your groin will be shaved and cleansed. Sterile drapes will cover you, from your neck to your feet. A soft strap will be placed across your waist and arms to keep your hands from touching the sterile field. An electrophysiologist (a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of abnormal heart rhythms) will numb the skin in your groin (a few inches to the side of your genitalia) with medication. The catheters are threaded to your heart, where they'll sense the electrical activity there and evaluate your heart.


Question: What are some ways to minimize dust mites to prevent allergies?

Answer: You can find dust mite covers for mattresses, pillows, and box springs at mattress and allergy supply stores and in a variety of materials. Cold water does not kill dust mites. Wash sheets and pillowcases at least once a week. Wash comforters and bedspreads every one to two months. Consider using an electric blanket, which can reduce humidity on bed surfaces. Wash and dry stuffed animals often and keep them off beds. Clean mattresses in late winter and early spring by vacuuming them with the upholstery attachment on your vacuum cleaner or a powerful handheld vacuum.


Question: How is cone snail sting treated?

Answer: Avoid contact with these animals. Immerse the affected area in water as hot as is tolerable. Use the pressure-immobilization technique to prevent the venom from spreading through the body as much as possible: The extremity should be wrapped with a bandage in a style similar to wrapping a sprained ankle. Bind the limb firmly but do not block the circulation. Do not cut into the wound, apply suction, or use a tourniquet. Intensive care hospitalization, including use of a respirator, may be required.


Question: What is the Whipple procedure?

Answer: Also known as pancreaticoduodenectomy, the Whipple procedure involves removal of the "head" (wide part) of the pancreas next to the first part of the small intestine (duodenum). It also involves removal of the duodenum, a portion of the common bile duct, gallbladder, and sometimes part of the stomach. Afterward, surgeons reconnect the remaining intestine, bile duct, and pancreas. After the Whipple procedure was introduced, many surgeons were reluctant to perform it because it had a high death rate.


Question: What is the prognosis for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Because pancreatic cancer often grows and spreads long before it causes any symptoms, only about 6% of patients are still alive five years after diagnosis. One of the most common of these include the development of false channels (fistulas) and leakage from the site of the bowel reconnection.


Question: How many people die from the Whipple procedure?

Answer: The classic Whipple procedure is named after Allen Whipple, MD, a Columbia University surgeon who was the first American to perform the operation in 1935. As recently as the 1970s, up to 25% of patients either died during the surgery or shortly thereafter. Since then, improvements in diagnosis, staging, surgical techniques, anesthesia, and postoperative care have reduced the short-term death rate to less than 4% in patients whose operation is performed at cancer centers by experienced surgeons. At some major centers, the reported death rate is less than 1%. But the rate may still be above 15% in patients who are treated at small hospitals or by less experienced surgeons.


Question: What should you expect if you have pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Because pancreatic cancer often grows and spreads long before it causes any symptoms, only about 6% of patients are still alive five years after diagnosis. One of the most common of these include the development of false channels (fistulas) and leakage from the site of the bowel reconnection.


Question: What are complications of the Whipple procedure?

Answer: One of the most common of these include the development of false channels (fistulas) and leakage from the site of the bowel reconnection. Other possible surgical complications include: Infections Bleeding Trouble with the stomach emptying itself after meals After surgery, patients are usually hospitalized for a week before returning home. Most patients can expect to lose weight after the surgery.


Question: Does the Whipple procedure work better before or after surgery for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: For some pancreatic patients, however, a complex surgery known as the Whipple procedure may extend life and could be a potential cure. Studies are ongoing.


Question: What are possible complications of the Whipple procedure?

Answer: One of the most common of these include the development of false channels (fistulas) and leakage from the site of the bowel reconnection. Other possible surgical complications include: Infections Bleeding Trouble with the stomach emptying itself after meals After surgery, patients are usually hospitalized for a week before returning home. Most patients can expect to lose weight after the surgery.


Question: What are angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs)?

Answer: They lower certain chemicals that narrow your blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily through your body. ARBs also lower certain chemicals that cause salt and fluid to build up in your body. It may take many weeks for you to feel the full effects of the drug. ARBs can cause potassium to build up in your body, so don't use salt substitutes, which contain potassium.


Question: Which medications should I avoid when taking ARBs?

Answer: Check with your doctor before you take aspirin or NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), like ibuprofen or naproxen. These over-the-counter medicines may cause sodium and water to build up in your body and lessen the effect of an ARB. Digoxin and warfarin may interfere with the effects of Micardis. If you are taking these medications, tell your doctor before he prescribes an ARB. Tell your doctor about all the medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and supplements.


Question: What does my skin do?

Answer: The skin contains nerves that sense cold, heat, pain, pressure, and touch. This is the least severe type of burn, affecting only the outer layer of skin.


Question: What can I expect after surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP)?

Answer: In general, you should plan to take a few weeks off from work. You should also avoid sex and vigorous exercise or activity for at least 6 weeks. It typically takes longer to recover from abdominal surgery than it does from vaginal surgery. With vaginal surgery, you may get a creamy white discharge for 4 to 6 weeks afterward. This is because of the stitches in the vagina. You can't have abdominal surgery.


Question: What is reconstructive surgery for pelvic organ prolapse (POP)?

Answer: There are two types of prolapse surgery: obliterative and reconstructive. Reconstructive surgery aims to repair the pelvic floor and return organs to their original position. This can be done with cuts either in the vagina or the abdomen. It can also be done using laparoscopic surgery, in which a surgeon makes smaller cuts in the abdomen and uses special instruments.


Question: How can vaginal mesh help with treating pelvic organ prolapse (POP)?

Answer: There are a number of reconstructive surgeries your doctor can perform to restore the appearance and function of your pelvic organs. This procedure is also done through the vagina by using your own tissues or vaginal mesh to repair the prolapse.


Question: How can anterior and posterior colporrhaphy help with treating pelvic organ prolapse (POP)?

Answer: There are a number of reconstructive surgeries your doctor can perform to restore the appearance and function of your pelvic organs. The goal here is to make the tissue that holds the pelvic organs in place tighter and stronger. Anterior repair is used when the bladder drops and presses against the front of the vagina. Posterior repair is used when the rectum drops and pushes into the back of the vagina. This procedure is also done through the vagina by using your own tissues or vaginal mesh to repair the prolapse.


Question: What are the risks of vaginal mesh for pelvic organ prolapse (POP)?

Answer: Vaginal mesh repairs prolapse by putting mesh under the vaginal skin to help lift sagging organs into place. With mesh placed in the vagina, there's a risk of pain and infection, and also that the mesh will erode. In 2016, safety concerns prompted the FDA to classify vaginal mesh for pelvic organ prolapse as a âhigh-risk device.â You probably would only have this procedure if: You've tried other prolapse surgery without success. Your tissues are too weak to repair. You can't have abdominal surgery.


Question: How can biofeedback therapy help with treating pelvic organ prolapse (POP)?

Answer: Pelvic organ prolapse ( POP) happens when organs like the bladder, uterus or rectum drop down and press against the vagina. This treatment combines teaching you how to contract your pelvic muscles with proper breathing techniques and abdominal control.


Question: What are common signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder?

Answer: If your child is hyper, it could be because he's just a kid. But just being hyper doesn't necessarily mean your child has the condition. Watch out for these other signs of ADHD: Does he interrupt frequently? Does he have trouble following instructions and organizing tasks? Is he forgetful? Is he impatient? Does he frequently speak out of turn?


Question: Does inflammation play a role in the development of type 2 diabetes?

Answer: The good news: An "anti-inflammatory" diet and exercise plan can help prevent and treat type 2 diabetes. Scientists are only beginning to understand the role this form of internal inflammation may play in the development of chronic diseases like diabetes. It's not as simple as that, however, researchers know for sure that inflammation is somehow involved in the development of type 2 diabetes.


Question: What are new therapies for prostate cancer?

Answer: There are several types. This treatment uses high-energy beams (similar to X-rays) to kill the cancer. It's often a choice when your cancer is low grade or still only in your prostate. This special kind of radiation therapy uses very small particles to attack and kill cancer cells that haven't spread. He'll put small needles or probes into your prostate to deliver very cold gasses that destroy the cells. If they're too tough to handle, you might want to change your approach. Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of each type of therapy.


Question: How is hormone therapy used to treat prostate cancer?

Answer: This treatment keeps the cancer cells from getting them. The treatments for prostate cancer also can affect your body in other ways.


Question: How is radiation done to treat prostate cancer?

Answer: This treatment uses high-energy beams (similar to X-rays) to kill the cancer. The treatments for prostate cancer also can affect your body in other ways.


Question: How is surgery done to treat prostate cancer?

Answer: Your doctor will consider many things when he recommends one for you, including: The size of your tumor and how far it has spread. It's usually not the first treatment a doctor recommends.


Question: How can radiation help to treat prostate cancer?

Answer: This treatment uses high-energy beams (similar to X-rays) to kill the cancer. The treatments for prostate cancer also can affect your body in other ways.


Question: How can hormone therapy help with treating prostate cancer?

Answer: This treatment keeps the cancer cells from getting them. The treatments for prostate cancer also can affect your body in other ways.


Question: How does high blood sugar affect a child's brain?

Answer: The same is true when a child's levels swing up and down a lot. High blood sugar levels and the stress of managing a long-term disease are to blame.


Question: I think Iâm ready to get moving again. What do I need to know about getting fit after an injury?

Answer: Your comeback game-plan should include these steps. Once your doc and therapist have cleared you, spend a little time thinking about why you got injured and what, if anything, you might be able to do to differently the next time around. Did you push your body beyond its limits? A good guideline is to start at about 50% of your "normal" level, and increase only 10% to 15% each week -- assuming your symptoms don't flare-up during or after each session. Cross-training -- doing a variety of activities that work different parts of your body -- is key. It helps you stay fit while the part of your body that's injured regains strength. If you feel a slight pain while exercising, pushing past it can help you make gains. But you should never be in agony, and you should feel better soon after you stop moving. You may have to rest for 1 to 3 days before you try again.


Question: What causes tricuspid regurgitation?

Answer: Pulmonary hypertension is high blood pressure in the pulmonary artery. The main one is congestive heart failure. These may be due to: Elevated blood pressure in the pulmonary artery (pulmonary hypertension) Previous surgery as a child to repair a severe heart defect Usually, no treatment is required for pulmonary regurgitation.


Question: Are certain types of migraine more likely to include nausea or vomiting?

Answer: Certain conditions associated with migraine are more likely to cause nausea or vomiting than others. The condition isn't a type of migraine, but the two seem to be connected.


Question: How can a cluster headache cause nausea?

Answer: Cluster headaches: You might have migraine-like nausea with these headaches. Some folks are more likely to get nausea with a migraine, like women and people who are prone to motion sickness.


Question: How does benign proximal vertigo cause nausea?

Answer: What else makes them swell? This can be a precursor of migraine in kids, but can happen in anyone even without a history of migraine. It usually happens to people over 60. They may get sick to their stomach or vomit.


Question: How are medications used to treat migraines with nausea?

Answer: You might also have a headache and nausea along with vomiting when you're withdrawing from alcohol. The condition isn't a type of migraine, but the two seem to be connected. A number of things can ease migraine with nausea. Medications . Your doctor might prescribe drugs to prevent migraine headaches, to stop them once they've started, and to relieve your symptoms. They come in different forms, like pills, suppositories, syrups, and shots. They have a number of side effects, so work with your doctor to find one that works for you.


Question: How can lifestyle changes help treat migraines with nausea?

Answer: Stress is a common trigger for nauseating migraine headaches. Find ways to cut it, and your attacks could get less severe and happen less often. Common culprits include chocolate and alcohol.


Question: What is a salt-water rinse for a cold?

Answer: If you go the rinsing route, try this recipe: Mix 3 teaspoons of iodide-free salt and 1 teaspoon baking soda. Add 1 teaspoon of this mixture to 8 ounces of lukewarm boiled or distilled water. Next, fill a bulb syringe with this solution (or use a Neti pot.) Hold one nostril closed by applying light finger pressure while squirting the mixture into the other nostril. Let it drain. Then treat the other nostril. Also, rinse the bulb or Neti pot after each use and leave open to air dry.


Question: How is Barrett's esophagus diagnosed?

Answer: Although the risk of this cancer is higher in people with Barrett's esophagus, the disease is still rare. No. Risk factors include age over 50, male sex, white race, hiatal hernia, long standing GERD, and overweight, especially if weight is carried around the middle.


Question: What medications are used to treat Barrett's esophagus?

Answer: Sleeping with your head raised may help prevent the acid in your stomach from flowing up into the esophagus. Those medications may include: Proton pump inhibitors that reduce the production of stomach acid Antacids to neutralize stomach acid H2 blockers that lessen the release of stomach acid Promotility agents -- drugs that speed up the movement of food from the stomach to the intestines There are several treatments, including surgery, that are designed specifically to focus on the abnormal tissue.


Question: How is Barrett's esophagus treated?

Answer: But in patients with frequent acid reflux, the normal cells in the esophagus may eventually be replaced by cells that are similar to cells in the intestine to become Barrett's esophagus. This is done with lifestyle changes and medication. Lifestyle changes include taking steps such as: Make changes in your diet. Avoid alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and tobacco. Lose weight. Being overweight increases your risk for reflux. Sleep with the head of the bed elevated. Sleeping with your head raised may help prevent the acid in your stomach from flowing up into the esophagus. Don't lie down for 3 hours after eating. Take all medicines with plenty of water.


Question: What habits will help with fatigue during chemotherapy?

Answer: Adjust your work schedule if you need to. Eat a healthy diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Exercise, even if it's just a little bit every day. Drink plenty of water. Take short naps if you need to, but not too close to bedtime. Ask your doctor if it might help you. To keep yourself on track, try a few of these habits: Stick to a routine.


Question: Can chemotherapy cause side effects?

Answer: If you're about to start your cancer treatment, find out what steps you can take to feel better if you end up having some of these side effects. You can get them over the counter or by prescription, but always talk to your doctor before you take them.


Question: How long does a chemotherapy session take?

Answer: To make your life easier and more comfortable as you recover, think about how you'll take care of yourself at home before you go in for treatment. Some people schedule chemotherapy around their work hours, but many others find that they need time off, both for the treatment appointments and in the days or weeks after.


Question: How much help will I need around the house during chemotherapy sessions?

Answer: It might be tough to cook dinner or take care of the kids if you're dealing with side effects like fatigue or nausea. Loved ones can help by cooking and freezing meals for your family ahead of time, volunteering to baby-sit, running errands, or just lending a hand around the house. Plan for pet care.


Question: How is an umbilical hernia managed after surgery?

Answer: If your baby has a bulge around his belly button, he may have an umbilical hernia. Most umbilical hernias don't need any treatment. As he recovers, he should avoid swimming for 5 to 10 days and sports for 2 to 3 weeks. Your doctor will want to see him for a follow-up appointment in 2 to 4 weeks.


Question: How is an umbilical hernia treated?

Answer: If your baby has a bulge around his belly button, he may have an umbilical hernia. Most umbilical hernias don't need any treatment. Usually, the hole heals on its own by the time your child is 4 or 5 years old. Even if it doesn't, it'll likely get smaller. That'll make surgery a bit easier. If the hole is large, he may recommend surgery before your child turns 4 or 5. It takes about 45 minutes, and your child will be given anesthesia so that he will not be awake. The surgeon will make a small cut just below the belly button. If any part of the intestine pokes through, he'll put it back where it belongs. The doctor will use stitches to close the hernia. He'll also sew the skin under the navel to give it an âinnieâ look. Then, he'll seal the cut with surgical glue that'll hold the edges of the wound together.


Question: What are symptoms of umbilical hernia?

Answer: If your baby has a bulge around his belly button, he may have an umbilical hernia. You'll be able to see the hernia most clearly when your child cries, coughs, or strains as he tries to poop. Your child's doctor can tell if he has one during a physical exam. You'll want to keep a close eye on your child's hernia for signs that the intestine has been trapped in the hole and can't go back in. Doctors call this an incarcerated hernia. It can cause the area around the belly button to become painful, swollen, and even discolored. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your baby to the emergency room. Most umbilical hernias don't need any treatment.


Question: What should I do if I think I have thrush?

Answer: But it doesn't have to if you control your blood sugar. See your dentist regularly. If you have problems with healing, it may take longer for your mouth to heal after any type of dental surgery.


Question: What is thrush?

Answer: Schedule a visit right away if you have any of these signs of gum disease: Gums that are red, swollen, sore, or bleed easily Gums that pull away from your teeth Sensitive or loose teeth Changes in the way your bite feels Dentures that don't fit right Bad breath or a bad taste in your mouth Diabetes and Mouth Problems Gum disease is the most common mouth problem for people with diabetes. Having thrush can also make it hard to swallow and affects how food tastes. If you have any symptoms of thrush, see your doctor or dentist.


Question: How can having diabetes affect dental surgery?

Answer: You may need to take an antifungal drug to treat it. Healing problems can also raise your chances of infection. Be sure to let your dentist know you have diabetes.


Question: How can getting enough sleep help you recover from depression?

Answer: Not getting enough sleep can have a huge impact on your mood. So you need to get into some good sleep habits. Stay on a regular schedule: go to bed and get up at the same time each day. Don't nap. Physical activity during the day may help you sleep, but don't exercise too close to bedtime. However, avoid watching TV or staring at a bright computer screen in bed.


Question: How does sunlight help you recover from depression?

Answer: Many studies have established that regular physical activity can help you feel better when you are recovering from depression. Some people have seasonal affective disorder ( SAD), depression that typically recurs during the fall and winter, when sunlight is scarce and goes away in the spring and summer. If you think you might have SAD, ask your doctor if light therapy -- exposure to artificial sunlight with a special lamp -- might help.


Question: How can doing things you enjoy help you recover from depression?

Answer: Many studies have established that regular physical activity can help you feel better when you are recovering from depression. But you should push yourself a little. Set aside time to do things that you used to enjoy doing. Make a plan to go out to dinner or a movie with friends. Or return to a hobby that you used to pursue. Try expressing yourself creatively.


Question: What medications can help with treating persistent heartburn?

Answer: Histamine blockers, or H2- Blockers, such as Ranitidine ( Zantac) and Famotidine ( Pepcid) can also be found over-the-counter to help relieve symptoms of acid reflux. Your pharmacist or your doctor can explain how each drug works, and what to expect.


Question: How are lasers used to help with your skin condition?

Answer: It makes your skin more sensitive to light. This cuts down on side effects and may lower your chances of skin cancer. You'll also need fewer treatments compared with other types of light therapy. The excimer laser uses focused, high-energy ultraviolet B light. It can help patches get better faster than other methods. You usually get this treatment in your doctor's office twice a week for 4 or 5 weeks.


Question: How can I get ultraviolet B rays to treat a skin problem?

Answer: Sunlight. Your doctor can treat you with UVB rays from a phototherapy machine in his office. You can also get one to use at home. Both UVA and UVB rays are linked to skin cancer.


Question: How can ultraviolet B help with your skin condition?

Answer: UVB (ultraviolet B). Your doctor can treat you with UVB rays from a phototherapy machine in his office. You can also get one to use at home. Both UVA and UVB rays are linked to skin cancer. You'll probably need phototherapy treatments 3 days a week for 2 to 3 months.


Question: How can psoralen plus ultraviolet A help with your skin condition?

Answer: This treatment combines UVA lamp sessions with a drug called psoralen. The treatment also has side effects such as: Nausea Exhaustion Headaches Burning and itching Because psoralen makes your body extra sensitive to light, you need to protect your skin and eyes after taking it. Call your doctor if you see blisters.


Question: How is psorlaen used to treat skin problems?

Answer: PUVA (psoralen plus ultraviolet A). It makes your skin more sensitive to light.


Question: What is chronic myelogenous leukemia?

Answer: You may also hear your doctor call it chronic myeloid leukemia. These are cells that live in your bone marrow and help make new blood cells.


Question: What protects my nervous system?

Answer: That network -- your nervous system -- has two parts: Your brain and spinal cord make up your central nervous system. Your brain is guarded by your skull, and your spinal cord is shielded by small bones in your spine (vertebrae) and thin coverings (membranes). They're both cushioned by a clear fluid called cerebrospinal fluid.


Question: What are the parts of the nervous system?

Answer: The nerves in the rest of your body make up your peripheral nervous system. This is also how messages get from your body back to your brain and spinal cord.


Question: Who is most at risk for getting community-associated MRSA?

Answer: This type of MRSA is called community-associated MRSA ( CA- MRSA). Children (or adults) who come into close contact with other people in places like: Day care centers Playgrounds Locker rooms Classrooms and other school settings Gymnasiums Workout facilities In these kinds of settings, MRSA is more likely, because kids have skin-to-skin contact and may share equipment or toys that have not been cleaned. Children are also more likely to have frequent scrapes or bug bites -- potential entryways for infection. This can worsen the infection and spread it to other people.


Question: What are low-dose birth control pills?

Answer: You probably know that the pill has hormones in it to keep you from getting pregnant. The catch is that the more estrogen you take, the more likely you are to have side effects such as headaches, nausea, breast tenderness, and rare but potentially fatal blood clots. Nowadays, the highest dose available is 50 micrograms of estrogen, but even that is rarely prescribed anymore. Today, most pills have 35 micrograms or less of estrogen, an amount that's generally called "low dose." These pills are both safe and effective for most women.


Question: What should you know about heat exhaustion?

Answer: Salt depletion. Signs include nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, and dizziness. Although heat exhaustion isn't as serious as heat stroke, it isn't something to be taken lightly. Without proper intervention, heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, which can damage the brain and other vital organs, and even cause death. After you've recovered from heat exhaustion, you'll probably be more sensitive to high temperatures during the following week.


Question: What are the risk factors for heat exhaustion?

Answer: Heat exhaustion is strongly related to the heat index, which is a measurement of how hot you feel when the effects of relative humidity and air temperature are combined. If you live in an urban area, you may be especially prone to develop heat exhaustion during a prolonged heat wave, particularly if there are stagnant atmospheric conditions and poor air quality. In what is known as the "heat island effect," asphalt and concrete store heat during the day and only gradually release it at night, resulting in higher nighttime temperatures. Check with your doctor to see if your health conditions and medications are likely to affect your ability to cope with extreme heat and humidity. When the heat index is high, it's best to stay inside in air conditioning.


Question: What can you do to prevent heat exhaustion?

Answer: Other recommended strategies include: Drink plenty of fluids, especially sports drinks to replace lost salt (avoid caffeine and alcohol). When the heat index is high, it's best to stay inside in air conditioning. If you must go outdoors, you can prevent heat exhaustion by taking these steps: Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more. Drink extra fluids.


Question: What should I do to treat a mucocele?

Answer: If you or your child develops a soft swelling in the mouth, it may just be a mucocele -- a harmless cyst. It's still a good idea to get it checked out, though, especially if it's bothersome. But sometimes they enlarge. Don't try to open them or treat them yourself. See your doctor, your child's pediatrician, or your dentist for expert advice.


Question: What are the symptoms of mucoceles?

Answer: If you or your child develops a soft swelling in the mouth, it may just be a mucocele -- a harmless cyst. Mucoceles often show up on the inside of your lower lips, your gums, the roof of your mouth, or under your tongue. Those on the floor of the mouth are called ranulas. These are rare, but because they are larger, they can cause more problems with speech, chewing, and swallowing.


Question: What are the characteristics of a mucocele?

Answer: If you or your child develops a soft swelling in the mouth, it may just be a mucocele -- a harmless cyst. Mucoceles may have these characteristics: Moveable and painless Soft, round, dome-shaped Pearly or semi-clear surface or bluish in color 2 to 10 millimeters in diameter Mucoceles often go away without treatment.


Question: What causes pregnancy bleeding and swollen gums?

Answer: But your blood circulation and hormone levels can make your gums tender and swollen, and you may notice they bleed more easily. You may also develop nose bleeds. You may have a stuffy nose or feel like you have a cold.


Question: What causes swelling in the feet and legs during pregnancy?

Answer: Pressure on your rectum from your uterus may also cause constipation. Elevate your legs and feet while sitting.


Question: What causes pregnancy stretch marks?

Answer: Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that appear as painful lumps on the anus. Though they won't disappear completely, stretch marks will fade after delivery. Stretch marks affect the surface under the skin and are not preventable.


Question: What causes pregnancy nausea or vomiting?

Answer: Avoid straining when you have a bowel movement. It's important to get up and move around often. Backaches are usually caused by the strain put on the back muscles, changing hormone levels, and changes in your posture.


Question: What causes Braxton-Hicks contractions?

Answer: This will happen again in the third trimester, when the baby's head drops into the pelvis before birth. Irregular, infrequent contractions are called Braxton- Hicks contractions (also known as "false labor pains"). These are normal during pregnancy.


Question: What causes pregnancy frequent urination?

Answer: This will happen again in the third trimester, when the baby's head drops into the pelvis before birth. More blood is also going to your growing uterus.


Question: What causes abdominal pain or discomfort during pregnancy?

Answer: Pressure from your growing uterus can cause leg cramps or sharp pains down your legs. These pains may also travel down your thigh and into your leg.


Question: What assistive devices can be used in the bedroom to help treat arthritis?

Answer: Rearrange your kitchen so that the things you use most often are the easiest to reach. Most people with rheumatoid arthritis have joint stiffness in the morning. A few simple changes will make it easier to get going. Use lamps that turn on and off by touch or by your voice. And replace small, hard-to-turn switches on lamps with larger grip-and-turn knobs. Find sock aids and zipper pulls. A sock aid can help you pull up your socks without bending your legs. A zipper pull, which has a large rung that attaches to a zipper tag, makes zippers easier to grab and zip.


Question: Are assistive devices necessary to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Extra help is available if you start to have trouble with everyday activities. Most people with rheumatoid arthritis have joint stiffness in the morning.


Question: How is chronic insomnia treated?

Answer: Primary insomnia: Primary insomnia means that a person is having sleep problems that are not directly associated with any other health condition or problem. If insomnia continues, your health care provider may suggest behavioral therapy. Behavioral approaches help you to change behaviors that may worsen insomnia and to learn new behaviors to promote sleep. Techniques such as relaxation exercises, sleep restriction therapy, and reconditioning may be useful.


Question: How do mouth devices treat sleep apnea?

Answer: You can get these custom-made or buy them over the counter. This looks like a mouth guard that athletes wear. Hinges let your lower jaw ease forward, which keeps your tongue and soft palate stable so your airway stays open while you're asleep. Tongue retaining device. This is sort of like a splint that holds your tongue in place to keep your airway open. Doctors don't prescribe it as often as the MAD. You heat it in hot water, then bite into it to make it fit your mouth. You can choose from a few different models, so you should be able to find a mask that works for you.


Question: What is a hypoglossal nerve stimulator?

Answer: Your doctor can tell you the right pressure to use and how to set it on the machine. It monitors your breathing patterns and sends signals to the nerves that control your tongue and other muscles. They move forward, and keep your airway open. The device is an option for people who've tried CPAP without any success or don't use it properly. And a few studies suggest it works about as well as the mask-machine combo. But ask your doctor if it's a good choice for you.


Question: Can daydreaming be a sign that my child has ADHD?

Answer: Only your doctor can say for sure whether your child has it. It's hard to know if your child is more distracted, wiggly, or forgetful than other kids (they're all a little like that once in a while!). But if she has the âinattentiveâ type of ADHD, she'll daydream a lot, may be too wrapped up in her own thoughts to hear you, and often seem like she can't focus. Symptoms of ADHD usually show up when kids are young -- around age 12 on average.


Question: Could I be hospitalized for depression against my will?

Answer: Once there, a hospital doctor will talk to you and decide whether you actually need to be hospitalized. While the doctor has the final say whether you get admitted, friends or family members can be involved by providing input about your symptoms and functioning to the health care professionals who are evaluating you. If a doctor believes that involuntary hospitalization is necessary, the hospital has the right to evaluate your condition, usually for several days, before asking a judge whether ongoing involuntary hospitalization and medications or other treatments are medically warranted and can therefore be administered against your will. Before a person can be hospitalized, some insurers require that he or she be evaluated by an evaluator under contract with their company.


Question: How often is depression treated on an outpatient basis?

Answer: But, in cases of severe depression or treatment-resistant depression, some people need to stay in the hospital for a short time. The goal of hospitalization is to get you on the right track by starting treatments that can be continued on an outpatient basis.


Question: How are calories an important measurement when eating healthy for weight loss?

Answer: A good general rule is to use My Plate, which makes it easy to envision just how much of each food type to include in your meal. When you eat more calories than you need, your body stores the extra calories as fat. Even low-carb and fat-free foods can have a lot of calories that can be stored as fat.


Question: What does a healthy diet include?

Answer: But exactly what is a healthy diet? It should include: Protein (found in fish, meat, poultry, dairy products, eggs, nuts, and beans) Fat (found in animal and dairy products, nuts, and oils) Carbohydrates (found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans and other legumes) Vitamins (such as vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K) Minerals (such as calcium, potassium, and iron) Water (both in what you drink, and what's naturally in foods) Dieting or not, everyone needs a mix of those nutrients, ideally from foods. Stick to your calorie âbudget,â because when you're working on losing weight, you need to burn more calories than you eat or drink.


Question: What are some general tips when eating healthy for weight loss?

Answer: More tips: Choose nonfat or 1% milk instead of 2% or whole milk. Pick lean meat instead of fatty meat. Select breads and cereals that are made with whole grains and are not prepared with a lot of fat. If you eat a high-calorie food or meal, balance your intake by choosing low-calorie foods the rest of the day or the next day. Check the food labels on packaged foods to help you budget fat, cholesterol, and sodium over several days. That's just the start of what you might want to know about nutrition for weight loss. Keep learning as much as you can, including the following terms.


Question: How important is water when eating healthy for weight loss?

Answer: It should include: Protein (found in fish, meat, poultry, dairy products, eggs, nuts, and beans) Fat (found in animal and dairy products, nuts, and oils) Carbohydrates (found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans and other legumes) Vitamins (such as vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K) Minerals (such as calcium, potassium, and iron) Water (both in what you drink, and what's naturally in foods) Dieting or not, everyone needs a mix of those nutrients, ideally from foods. But most Americans get too much of it, which makes high cholesterol and heart disease more likely. You can drink water or get it from foods that naturally have water in them, like fruits and vegetables.


Question: What are tips to make my hair look fuller?

Answer: Find a great barber or stylist. If you've always worn your hair parted on the left, try shifting it to the right or center. It's key to have a plan for upkeep, since hair color can make hair loss stand out if your roots are too noticeable. If you have mild to moderate hair loss, fiber hair cosmetics can be a quick fix for adding volume. These products use statically charged fibers that you sprinkle over your hair to make it look thicker.


Question: What are anal fissures?

Answer: You may even try to avoid the bathroom to prevent the pain. An anal fissure is usually a short-term (or acute) problem, with symptoms that last 6 weeks or less. It's considered chronic when symptoms last for more than 6 weeks. Chronic anal fissures may be harder to treat and may be a symptom of another condition, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis. Signs that your child may have an anal fissure include: Crying during bowel movements Blood on the surface of stools or in soiled diapers A visible tear in the anal area


Question: How can a social network help with worrying?

Answer: When worrying becomes excessive, it can lead to feelings of high anxiety and even cause you to be physically ill. People with high anxiety have difficulty shaking their worries.


Question: Why are biologics for Crohn's disease so expensive?

Answer: You may be able to get help to pay for it. Biologics are hard to make, and that drives up the price. One year of treatment can add up to about $20,000. Even if you have health insurance, you may have to pay 25% to 35% of the cost of the drug. You can find out which help pay for each type of biologic used to treat Crohn's disease.


Question: Who can get whooping cough and how long does it last?

Answer: Children under the age of 18 months with whooping cough should be watched at all times, because the coughing spells can make them stop breathing. It may last 3 to 6 weeks. You can get sick from it even if you've already been vaccinated, but that's not likely.


Question: Do over-the-counter cough medicines work to treat whooping cough?

Answer: Because the cough is dry and doesn't produce mucus, these spells can last up to 1 minute. Most people are diagnosed too late for antibiotics to work well, though.


Question: How is whooping cough spread?

Answer: After about 7-10 days, the cough turns into âcoughing spellsâ that end with a whooping sound as the person tries to breathe in air. You can get sick from it even if you've already been vaccinated, but that's not likely.


Question: How long do whooping cough spells last?

Answer: Don't use over-the-counter cough medicines, cough suppressants, or expectorants (medicines that make you cough up mucus) to treat whooping cough. Whooping cough can cause anyone at any age to get sick.


Question: What are the risks of dehydrations from whooping cough?

Answer: Call your doctor right away. You can get sick from it even if you've already been vaccinated, but that's not likely.


Question: What are the treatments for colorectal cancer?

Answer: The need for permanent colostomy is more common with rectal cancer, since retaining the rectum may be difficult. Radiation therapy is treatment with high-energy rays that destroy the cancer cells.


Question: How is surgery used to treat colorectal cancer?

Answer: The main types of treatment for colorectal cancer are surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Usually, the surgeon can reconnect the healthy sections of the colon and rectum. When this is not possible, the surgeon forms an opening -- known as a stoma -- in the abdomen and reroutes the severed colon to it. Waste is collected in a bag worn over the stoma. This procedure, known as a colostomy, often is only temporary. Once the bowel has had time to heal, a second operation reconnects the colon and rectum. The need for permanent colostomy is more common with rectal cancer, since retaining the rectum may be difficult. Radiation therapy can be used in people with colon cancer when the tumor has attached to another organ in the abdomen, or if a tumor is found near the margins of the cancer that was removed. These drugs work by blocking the cancer's blood supply or blocking a protein or genetic change made by the cancer to enhance it growth.


Question: What should you know about antidepressant discontinuation?

Answer: These symptoms are not technically the same thing as physical "withdrawal" from a drug. Physiological withdrawal happens when someone is taking a drug that can be addictive. This leads to craving and drug-seeking behavior. Antidepressants are not addictive or habit-forming. Unlike drug withdrawal, antidepressant discontinuation effects are not related to addiction but can reflect physiological consequences of stopping a drug, just as when someone with diabetes stops insulin. About one in five people who take an antidepressant for six or more weeks may experience discontinuation symptoms if they suddenly stop taking the medicine. Tapering down your medication gradually under the supervision of your health care provider can help avoid or minimize symptoms. However, it is still possible in those who decrease their dose too rapidly or sometimes even slowly quit the medicine. However, discontinuation symptoms are more likely with antidepressants that stay in your body for a shorter period of time, especially those that affect both serotonin and norepinephrine, such as Effexor (venlafaxine) and Cymbalta (duloxetine).


Question: How should caregivers help people with Parkinson's disease with their bathing?

Answer: For safety and comfort, use the shower, if possible. Tub baths can be a falling hazard. While he's bathing, have him sit on a shower stool, use a hand-held showerhead, and hold a grab bar. Sometimes Parkinson's causes dandruff. If it does, use a little shampoo with mild coal tar or salicylic acid. Then rinse his hair well. Wrap him up in an absorbent terry cloth robe after bathing. Skip pantyhose and clothes that pull on over the head.


Question: How can I help someone with Parkinson's disease keep doing the activities that they love?

Answer: Don't let his symptoms discourage participating in activities. Specially adapted tools are available to help with things like holding a paintbrush. Try relaxing activities to reduce stress, which can make symptoms worse. Listening to music and relaxation guided imagery may help ease tremors. Besides the daily exercise that his doctor probably suggests, urge him to exercise his face muscles, jaw, and mouth. Sing or read out loud (using big lip movements) or make faces.


Question: What are some side effects of these biologic drugs?

Answer: While that helps with inflammation and other issues, it also lowers your body's defenses. It could also make a condition your body has under control, such as tuberculosis ( TB), flare up again. Let your doctor know if you have signs of an infection like cough, fever, or red and painful skin. Some of the most common side effects are: Upper respiratory infections Nausea Fungal infections Your doctor will check you for TB before prescribing this medication and watch you for signs of the disease while you use it. Biologics suppress your immune system. Also, because biologics suppress the immune system, they could make serious infections more likely.


Question: What is certolizumab (Cimzia)?

Answer: A weaker immune system could make you more vulnerable to infections or diseases. With most of those, your doctor or nurse will show you how to do it, then you'll give them to yourself at home. Then you take one every other week after that. What it treats: Plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis How you take it: This is another shot you give yourself -- twice a week for 3 months. Like other biologics, this makes you more likely to get an infection. You get biologics by a shot or by IV infusion.


Question: How do I take certolizumab (Cimzia) to treat psoriasis?

Answer: With most of those, your doctor or nurse will show you how to do it, then you'll give them to yourself at home. Then you take one every other week after that. Like other biologics, this makes you more likely to get an infection. You may also want to take a biologic drug if you have mild psoriasis but it really bothers you. You get biologics by a shot or by IV infusion.


Question: What are the side effects of apremilast (Otezla) when it's used to treat psoriasis?

Answer: With most of those, your doctor or nurse will show you how to do it, then you'll give them to yourself at home. So the FDA recommends that doctors weigh the risks and benefits of the medicine before suggesting it for people who have had depression or suicidal thoughts in the past. Side effects can include: Headaches Diarrhea or other stomach issues Pain or swelling in your joints Upper respiratory infections What it treats: Plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis How you take it: You get this through an IV, and each session lasts 2 to 3 hours. Some of the most common side effects are: Upper respiratory infections Nausea Fungal infections Your doctor will check you for TB before prescribing this medication and watch you for signs of the disease while you use it.


Question: How do I take secukinumab (Cosentyx) to treat psoriasis?

Answer: With most of those, your doctor or nurse will show you how to do it, then you'll give them to yourself at home. What it treats: Plaque psoriasis How you take it: This comes in a prefilled syringe or a pen.


Question: How does ustekinumab (Stelara) treat psoriasis?

Answer: After your first shot, you'll get another 4 weeks later, then one every 8 weeks. It makes your psoriasis patches thinner and eases scaling and redness. You get biologics by a shot or by IV infusion.


Question: How do I take golimumab (Simponi) to treat psoriasis?

Answer: You give yourself one dose a week for 5 weeks, then once a month after that. That means they can make you more likely to get an infection.


Question: How do I take etanercept (Enbrel) to treat psoriasis?

Answer: You get some biologics as shots under the skin. What it treats: Plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis How you take it: This is another shot you give yourself -- twice a week for 3 months. After that, it's one shot a week.


Question: Can biologics I take for psoriasis make me more likely to get infections?

Answer: A weaker immune system could make you more vulnerable to infections or diseases. It could also make a condition your body has under control, such as tuberculosis ( TB), flare up again. Biologics suppress your immune system.


Question: What is the link between biologics and infections?

Answer: A weaker immune system could make you more vulnerable to infections or diseases. Biologics suppress your immune system.


Question: What is brodalumab (Siliq)?

Answer: That's done in your doctor's office. What it treats: Plaque psoriasis How you take it: This medicine comes in a prefilled syringe, and you get one shot a week for 3 weeks. Some people who take it may have a greater risk of thoughts and actions of suicide. So the FDA recommends that doctors weigh the risks and benefits of the medicine before suggesting it for people who have had depression or suicidal thoughts in the past. What it treats: Plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis How you take it: This is another shot you give yourself -- twice a week for 3 months.


Question: What is apremilast (Otezla)?

Answer: With most of those, your doctor or nurse will show you how to do it, then you'll give them to yourself at home. What it treats: Psoriatic arthritis How you take it: You can get it in a prefilled pen or autoinjector and give yourself a shot once a week. So the FDA recommends that doctors weigh the risks and benefits of the medicine before suggesting it for people who have had depression or suicidal thoughts in the past. Side effects can include: Headaches Diarrhea or other stomach issues Pain or swelling in your joints Upper respiratory infections What it treats: Plaque psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis How you take it: You get this through an IV, and each session lasts 2 to 3 hours. Some of the most common side effects are: Upper respiratory infections Nausea Fungal infections Your doctor will check you for TB before prescribing this medication and watch you for signs of the disease while you use it. It makes your psoriasis patches thinner and eases scaling and redness. Biologics suppress your immune system.


Question: Is there a chance of infection when I take secukinumab (Cosentyx) to treat psoriasis?

Answer: The most common side effects are: Symptoms of a cold Upper respiratory infection Diarrhea Your doctor will check to make sure you don't have TB before you start treatment and will watch you closely for signs of the disease while you're on it. Also, because biologics suppress the immune system, they could make serious infections more likely.


Question: How does apremilast (Otezla) treat psoriasis?

Answer: What it treats: Psoriatic arthritis How you take it: You can get it in a prefilled pen or autoinjector and give yourself a shot once a week. It makes your psoriasis patches thinner and eases scaling and redness. Biologics suppress your immune system.


Question: How is Ixekizumab (Taltz) used to treat psoriasis?

Answer: With most of those, your doctor or nurse will show you how to do it, then you'll give them to yourself at home. After that, it's one shot a week.


Question: How can you prevent shock from a third-degree burn?

Answer: The person is an infant or a senior. Prevent Shock Unless the person has a head, neck, or leg injury, or it would cause discomfort: Lay the person flat. Elevate feet about 12 inches. Elevate burn area above heart level, if possible. Cover the person with coat or blanket. For an airway burn, do not place pillow under the person's head when the person is lying down. Have a person with a facial burn sit up. Check pulse and breathing to monitor for shock until emergency help arrives.


Question: How can you protect a first-degree burn?

Answer: Protect Burn Cover with sterile, non-adhesive bandage or clean cloth. Do not soak burn in water or apply ointments or butter, which can cause infection.


Question: How much chamomile should you take?

Answer: Chamomile has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years to calm anxiety and settle stomachs. Studies have used between 220 milligrams to 1,600 milligrams daily in capsule form. The most common form is a tea, and some people drink one to four cups daily.


Question: Why do people take chamomile?

Answer: Chamomile has been used as a traditional medicine for thousands of years to calm anxiety and settle stomachs. One product with chamomile and other herbal medicines has been shown to ease upset stomach, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. A mouth rinse with chamomile might relieve mouth sores caused by cancer treatments. Some research suggests that chamomile could help with other conditions, like diarrhea in children, hemorrhoids, anxiety, and insomnia. When used on the skin, chamomile might help with skin irritation and wound healing. Some research has documented that it may be as effective as hydrocortisone cream for eczema.


Question: How long is the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) exam?

Answer: The MRI exam poses no risk to the person if appropriate safety guidelines are followed. During the test, several dozen images may be obtained.


Question: Are MRIs noisy?

Answer: Other than the sound, you should experience no unusual sensations during the scanning. Your doctor will discuss the test results with you.


Question: When should you get help for a gout flare-up?

Answer: Your doctor will likely have given you something to take if this happens, too. It's a good idea to rest it until the pain eases up. Call your doctor if: This is your first flare-up. There are several other conditions, such as a joint infection, that have some of the same symptoms as gout attacks. You have a high fever and chills . Gout attack symptoms may include a mild fever, but a higher temperature may be a sign of an infection. Your symptoms don't get any better after 48 hours or don't end after about a week. If you don't start to feel somewhat better after a few days, call your doctor. She may suggest a different treatment. Most gout attacks will go away by themselves in several weeks, even without treatment.


Question: How is tardive dyskinesia similar to akathisia?

Answer: Usually, akathisia is a side effect of antipsychotic drugs. It causes movements you do over and over, like blinking and grimacing. But you don't have control over them. With akathisia, you make the choice to move to relieve an urge.


Question: Is rheumatoid arthritis an immune system disorder?

Answer: Doctors don't know exactly what causes it. Your doctor may call that lining the âsynoviumâ and the procedure a âsynovectomy.â The operation, which is performed less frequently than in the past because of better medications, can relieve knee pain for up to 5 years.


Question: Is regular exercise used to treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Your doctor will recommend other treatments first. Your doctor may call that lining the âsynoviumâ and the procedure a âsynovectomy.â The operation, which is performed less frequently than in the past because of better medications, can relieve knee pain for up to 5 years.


Question: Where should I exercise if I have diabetes?

Answer: You can lift weights or work with resistance bands. Make it a habit. Work out with someone who knows you have diabetes and knows what to do if your blood sugar gets too low. It's more fun, too. Also wear a medical identification tag, or carry a card that says you have diabetes, just in case.


Question: Can diabetes cause complications?

Answer: Learn what you can do to prevent these problems. Over time, diabetes can cause nerve damage. If you have problems, you'll need to go more often.


Question: Does diabetes cause infections?

Answer: It also lowers your body's ability to heal itself. High sugar levels in your body's tissues means bacteria grow more easily and infections set in more quickly. Common sites for them are your bladder, kidneys, vagina, gums, feet, and skin. Early treatment can prevent serious complications.


Question: How can you prevent heart disease from diabetes?

Answer: In office visits, your doctor may do tests that screen for heart disease to help you prevent serious problems. At every visit, he'll check your blood pressure. He'll probably test your blood for cholesterol level and triglycerides at your first visit. And he should do an EKG as part of a complete medical record. Learn more about your risks for heart disease. Does it run in your family? Do you smoke? Make a prevention plan that includes weight loss, regular exercise, and stress management, as well as keeping your blood pressure, cholesterol, and triglycerides at normal levels. This is one of the reasons that the disease harms white blood cells, which are your body's main defense against oral infections.


Question: What are the symptoms of a stroke?

Answer: He may refer you to a neurologist or other stroke specialist. If you notice any of these symptoms, tell your doctor right away.


Question: Which conditions can cause spotting between periods?

Answer: A number of things can cause it to happen. These are the most common: Hormone-based birth control. Other health conditions, like hypothyroidism, liver disease, or chronic kidney disease. Fibroids or polyps.


Question: My family has a history of breast cancer. Should I take birth control pills?

Answer: A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that women with a strong family history of breast cancer may have up to an 11 times higher risk of breast cancer if they have ever taken the pill. But experts caution that the study involved mainly women who took birth control pills prior to 1975, when it contained much higher levels of the hormones estrogen and progestin than today's lower-dose pill. Those with a family history of breast cancer related to mutations in the BRCA genes should use caution before taking birth control pills. Women should discuss their family history of cancer with their doctor when evaluating the risks and benefits of using birth control pills.


Question: What is the treatment for separation anxiety disorder?

Answer: Most mild cases of separation anxiety disorder do not need medical treatment. In more severe cases, or when the child refuses to go to school, treatment may be needed. Medication: Antidepressant or other anti-anxiety medications may be used to treat severe cases of separation anxiety disorder.


Question: How is laparoscopy used in the diagnosis of bile duct cancer?

Answer: You'll be asleep when the doctor does this test because it requires an incision in your belly. He'll insert a thin tube with a light and small video camera. Biopsy. But if the cancer has spread to other organs, the outcome is about the same.


Question: What is the treatment for bile duct cancer?

Answer: In others, it may never go away entirely. While this is hard to hear, you can live with it. You may need regular doses of chemotherapy, radiation, or other treatments to keep it in check. Though it's a challenge to manage the stress, worry, and concerns about the future that come along with a cancer diagnosis, it's important to learn about your illness and to gather support from your medical team, family, and friends. What are the chances my cancer will return after treatment?


Question: What can I do to help manage my bile duct cancer symptoms?

Answer: He'll do a complete medical checkup and ask about your general health, family history of cancer and liver disease, lifestyle, and habits, including drinking alcohol and smoking. He'll also look for symptoms of bile duct cancer, like jaundice, which can appear as a yellowish tint to your skin and eyes. Fatigue or extreme tiredness -- the kind that doesn't get better with rest -- can happen when you have cancer. You might be so tired that it's hard to work out or do other things you want to do. While you do need to get enough rest, following an exercise program that's tailored to you can help reduce fatigue. When you find out you have cancer, it's only normal to think about your future and your own mortality. This can be a distressing time, so seek support everywhere you can. Whether it's a family member or friend, a counselor, or a religious leader, talk to someone you trust.


Question: Is there a cure for bile duct cancer?

Answer: In others, it may never go away entirely. You may need regular doses of chemotherapy, radiation, or other treatments to keep it in check. What are the chances my cancer will return after treatment?


Question: How are blood tests used to diagnose bile duct cancer?

Answer: Others look for signs of tumors, called markers, that show up when you have bile duct cancer. Your doctor may also check levels of bilirubin, the substance in your blood that causes jaundice. Should I get a second opinion?


Question: How is a laparoscopy used to diagnose bile duct cancer?

Answer: This imaging test helps your doctor see the tumor. He'll insert a thin tube with a light and small video camera. It lets him look at your bile duct, gallbladder, liver, and other organs and tissues. When he knows if -- and how far -- the cancer has spread, he can plan your surgery and treatments.


Question: What are parathyroid glands?

Answer: Since calcium is key to good bone health, this puts you at a higher risk of getting osteoporosis. But even a high-calcium diet can't get your body the calcium it needs if your parathyroids aren't working correctly. These four tiny glands just behind your thyroid work like a thermostat. Your body reacts by absorbing more calcium from food and keeping it from leaving through your urine.


Question: What is hyperparathyroid disease or hyperparathyroidism?

Answer: You may know that low levels of calcium in your bones can cause osteoporosis. When your body needs calcium, parathyroids make a hormone called parathyroid hormone ( PTH). This can happen for several reasons, including: â¢ A non-cancerous growth on one of the glands â¢ Two or more glands get too big â¢ A cancerous tumor (this is rare) You also can get hyperparathyroidism if something else is keeping your calcium levels low.


Question: What are symptoms of hyperparathyroidism?

Answer: When your body needs calcium, parathyroids make a hormone called parathyroid hormone ( PTH). The parathyroid can cause osteoporosis by making too much PTH, which eventually makes your body take calcium from your bones. Your parathyroids will work overtime making PTH if you have: â¢ Not enough vitamin D â¢ Kidney failure â¢ Problems absorbing calcium When you have hyperparathyroidism, you might have symptoms like: â¢ Body aches and pains â¢ Bone and joint pain â¢ Confusion and memory loss â¢ Frequent urges to go the bathroom â¢ Heartburn â¢ High blood pressure â¢ Kidney stones â¢ Nausea or vomiting â¢ No appetite â¢ Stomach pain â¢ Tiredness You also may break bones easily -- a sign of bone weakness and osteoporosis.


Question: How is hyperparathyroid disease treated?

Answer: The parathyroid can cause osteoporosis by making too much PTH, which eventually makes your body take calcium from your bones. If your symptoms are mild, your doctor may decide to wait and see if they get worse. Or you may take medications like estrogen and bisphosphonates to get your body to make less PTH so your bones can rebuild. However, the medication won't cure your hyperparathyroidism. If you have a growth on your parathyroid glands and have symptoms, your doctor probably will recommend surgery to remove it. Your symptoms should stop within a month of having it taken off. The growth usually doesn't come back.


Question: What does a microalbumin urine test look for?

Answer: A microalbumin urine test checks for small (or "micro") amounts of albumin in your urine -- at levels so small a regular urine test might not find them. It can be a sign of kidney disease. Your doctor can help you understand what they mean.


Question: What does a microalbumin urine test check?

Answer: A microalbumin urine test checks for small (or "micro") amounts of albumin in your urine -- at levels so small a regular urine test might not find them. It can be a sign of kidney disease. Your doctor can help you understand what they mean.


Question: What happens during a timed microalbumin urine test?

Answer: High blood pressure Your doctor will talk to you about how often to get tested. Your doctor will most likely ask the lab to check for creatinine as well as albumin. Timed test. You'll pee into it over 24 hours and take it back.


Question: What is a microalbumin test?

Answer: But if your kidneys aren't working quite right, albumin starts to leak into your urine. A microalbumin urine test helps because it can find kidney problems before they get too far. Your kidneys filter your blood. They keep the good stuff your body needs and send the waste out through your pee.


Question: What do the results of a random microalbumin urine test mean?

Answer: Creatinine is a normal waste product in your urine. For a short test, 2 hours, you'll probably stay at the doctor's office or lab. Random Test Normal: less than 30 micrograms (mcg) per milligram (mg) of creatinine Microalbuminuria: 300 mcg per mg of creatinine Clinical albuminuria: More than 300 mcg/mg creatinine Timed Test Normal: Less than 20 mcg/minute Microalbuminuria: 20-200 mcg/minute Clinical albuminuria: More than 200 mcg/minute 24- Hour Test Normal: Less than 30 mg Microalbuminuria: 30-300 mg Clinical albuminuria: More than 300 mg If there is albumin in your pee, the amount likely varies during the day. If the results are much higher than normal, it could be a sign of more advanced problems. Your doctor will help you figure out what the results mean and what steps you can take.


Question: What is the spinal cord?

Answer: The spinal cord is the major bundle of nerves carrying nerve impulses to and from the brain to the rest of the body. These bones constitute the spinal column or back bones. In a complete injury, a person loses all ability to feel and voluntarily move below the level of the injury.


Question: What can I do to keep myself healthy if I have polycythemia vera?

Answer: Most people with polycythemia vera take low-dose aspirin. There are a lot of ways you can keep yourself comfortable and as healthy as possible: Don't smoke or chew tobacco. Tobacco makes blood vessels narrow, which can make blood clots more likely. Get some light exercise, such as walking, to help your circulation and keep your heart healthy. Do leg and ankle exercises to stop clots from forming in the veins of your legs. Your doctor or a physical therapist can show you how. Bathe or shower in cool water if warm water makes you itch. Keep your skin moist with lotion, and try not to scratch.


Question: What can you do to manage polycythemia vera?

Answer: Most people with polycythemia vera take low-dose aspirin. There are a lot of ways you can keep yourself comfortable and as healthy as possible: Don't smoke or chew tobacco. Tobacco makes blood vessels narrow, which can make blood clots more likely. Get some light exercise, such as walking, to help your circulation and keep your heart healthy. Do leg and ankle exercises to stop clots from forming in the veins of your legs. Your doctor or a physical therapist can show you how. Bathe or shower in cool water if warm water makes you itch. Keep your skin moist with lotion, and try not to scratch.


Question: How will the doctor diagnose polycythemia vera?

Answer: They'll also see if your face is unusually red. Your doctor may ask you questions like: Do you get a lot of headaches? Have you lost weight lately? Do you sometimes feel dizzy or weak? Have you had shortness of breath? Do you sweat a lot at night? Your doctor or a physical therapist can show you how.


Question: How do you measure your pulse to check your heart rate?

Answer: You can tell how fast your heart is beating by feeling your pulse. Place your index and middle finger of your hand on the inner wrist of the other arm, just below the base of the thumb. You should feel a tapping or pulsing against your fingers. Count the number of taps you feel in 10 seconds. Multiply that number by 6 to find out your heart rate for 1 minute.


Question: What can you expect during a doctor's exam for heart disease?

Answer: During your visit, your doctor will: Listen to your heart Take your heart rate Check your blood pressure Your doctor will use a stethoscope to hear your heartbeat. Your doctor can also learn about your heart's health by looking at other parts of your body, such as your eyes, arms, legs, and skin. This will let him know if your body is getting enough blood. He'll also check for swelling. If there is any, it could mean that your heart isn't pumping well.


Question: Who is a candidate for lesionectomy?

Answer: In addition, it must be possible to remove the lesion and surrounding brain tissue without causing damage to areas of the brain responsible for vital functions, such as movement, sensation, language, and memory. There also must be a reasonable chance that the person will benefit from surgery. Lesionectomy results are excellent in patients whose seizures are clearly associated with a defined lesion.


Question: Can chiropractic treatment and massage treat pain?

Answer: Acupuncture also may be an acceptable alternative to or may be included as part of a comprehensive pain management program. Chiropractic treatment is the most common non-surgical treatment for back pain. Massage is being increasingly used by people suffering from pain, mostly to manage chronic back and neck problems. Massage can reduce stress and relieve tension by enhancing blood flow. This treatment also can reduce the presence of substances that may generate and sustain pain.


Question: Can acupuncture treat pain?

Answer: Although the World Health Organization currently recognizes more than 30 diseases or conditions that can be helped by acupuncture treatment, one of the main uses of acupuncture is for pain relief. Acupuncture is also thought to decrease pain by increasing the release of chemicals that block pain, called endorphins. Acupuncture may be useful as an accompanying treatment for many pain-related conditions, including: headache, low back pain, menstrual cramps, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, fibromyalgia, osteoarthritis and myofascial pain.


Question: What is the connection between enthesitis and arthritis?

Answer: Tendons are the tissues that attach your muscles to your bones. Enthesitis is common in some forms of arthritis, including psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Over time, enthesitis can lead to: Calcification or ossification: Inflammation of the entheses can cause new bone tissue to form. It's a common symptom of two kinds of autoimmune arthritis -- psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. Psoriatic arthritis, which is common in people with the skin condition psoriasis, can affect your entire body. Ankylosing spondylitis mainly affects your spine.


Question: What is enthesitis?

Answer: Tendons are the tissues that attach your muscles to your bones. Ligaments are what attach your bones to one another. Enthesitis is when they get inflamed and become painful because of injury, overuse, or disease. It also can happen in some children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (also known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis).


Question: How can inflammation of the entheses affect new bone tissue?

Answer: It also can happen in some children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (also known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis). It isn't usually linked to osteoarthritis or adult rheumatoid arthritis ( RA), but people with those conditions can have it. Over time, enthesitis can lead to: Calcification or ossification: Inflammation of the entheses can cause new bone tissue to form. That new bone tissue gets in the way of normal movement and function -- like a bone spur on your heel. It's a common symptom of two kinds of autoimmune arthritis -- psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis.


Question: Is dandruff a serious condition?

Answer: You can't catch it from anyone else or pass it on. It can be uncomfortable or embarrassing, though. More serious outbreaks can be red and painful.


Question: How is scalp psoriasis different from dandruff?

Answer: Once you have the right diagnosis, you can treat the cause and get some relief. Psoriasis can affect your scalp, and the red, scaly patches it causes can flake off like dandruff does.


Question: How can you support an older loved one after the death of a spouse or a partner?

Answer: The grief can last for a long time. Her feelings might go back and forth from very sad one day, to cheerful the next, to angry after that. These swings happen less often and ease up over time, but they can last for years. You'll want to respect what she's going through, and also encourage her to take care of herself. You can: Listen to her talk about the person who died. Make sure she eats well, gets enough sleep and exercise, and takes any medications. Be patient. Grief can make a person forgetful and disorganized, unable to focus, and less interested in things that used to be favorite pastimes. Encourage counseling -- whether with a therapist, clergy (if the person is religious), or a social worker.


Question: What are some practical tips for helping in older person prepare for changes ahead?

Answer: When you help a loved one through some of the big life changes that come with aging, you'll share of the good times and some of the tougher ones. She might need a little help and feel ready to move in with you or other relatives. If she eventually needs more medical or personal care than your family can give her, you might discuss an assisted living space or a skilled nursing home. Falls are a big risk. Look for things that someone could trip on, and remove them. Make sure that rugs have non-slip backing. Check on the lighting in your loved one's home. Do you need more lights, or brighter bulbs? In the bathroom, install grab bars in and outside the tub or shower, and next to the toilet. Stairs should have railings on both sides. You may also want to paint the top edge of steps a contrasting color (for instance, a white strip at the edge of a black step) and put non-slip tape on the steps. You can: Listen to her talk about the person who died.


Question: Will someone need to move when they get older?

Answer: The home they've lived in and loved for years might not work so well for them now. For example, your mom may need a bedroom and bathroom on the first floor so she doesn't have to climb stairs. She might need a little help and feel ready to move in with you or other relatives. If she eventually needs more medical or personal care than your family can give her, you might discuss an assisted living space or a skilled nursing home. Suggest ways she can get around instead, so she can stay as independent as possible.


Question: How can you help an older loved one manage grief?

Answer: You know that someone going through grief will need a lot of support. You may notice changes in her emotions. These swings happen less often and ease up over time, but they can last for years. You'll want to respect what she's going through, and also encourage her to take care of herself. Make sure she eats well, gets enough sleep and exercise, and takes any medications. Be patient. Encourage counseling -- whether with a therapist, clergy (if the person is religious), or a social worker.


Question: How can you make sure if you're older loved one is safe to drive?

Answer: Make sure that rugs have non-slip backing. If you're not sure, you can ask your loved one's doctor to do a driving safety evaluation and vision, thinking, or memory tests. If the doctor thinks it's OK for your loved one to drive but you're still worried, you can suggest some things that may ease your stress. Ask her doctor to review her medications -- over-the-counter drugs and prescription meds -- to cut side effects. Plan routes ahead of time. Look into a driving safety class for older adults, and encourage your loved one to take one. Keep the radio low or off, and insist on no cell phones or eating while driving.


Question: How can I help my bipolar disorder through my relationships?

Answer: Obviously, you don't need to tell everyone you know about your condition. But you also shouldn't rely on only one person. It's much better to have a number of people you can turn to in a crisis or when you need help (such as a ride or child care while you go to a doctor's appointment). Decide how often friends and family should check in and what to do if things are getting out of control. If you become manic, you might agree that your loved ones should take away your car keys or credit cards so you don't do anything reckless. If you start thinking about harming yourself, they certainly need to know how to get emergency help. During a manic or depressive phase, you may have upset people you care about.


Question: What should I do if family or friends have been hurt by my bipolar disorder?

Answer: During a manic or depressive phase, you may have upset people you care about. So try to hear them out and see things from their point of view. If you've hurt people, apologize. Let them know that you didn't mean to act the way you did, and reassure them that you're getting treatment. If you've just come out of a manic phase, you may not want to face people you treated badly. The worst thing you can do is to push people away.


Question: What should you know about skin conditions and warts?

Answer: There are more than 60 kinds of HPV, some of which tend to cause warts on the skin. HPV stimulates quick growth of cells on the skin's outer layer. In most cases, common warts appear on the fingers, near the fingernails, or on the hands. Certain types of HPV can also cause warts to appear in the genital area. Warts are caused through direct contact with HPV, which is contagious.


Question: What are several recognized forms of depression?

Answer: There are several recognized forms of depression: Major depression . Symptoms are serious and last for weeks or months. Psychotic depression. Suicide risk is especially high in this form of depression. Persistent depressive disorder. With bipolar disorder, episodes of depression alternate with mania, an excessively "high" mood with excessive energy and sleeplessness and the potential for serious problems.


Question: What are the ingredients of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine?

Answer: Human papillomavirus ( HPV) is the virus that causes cervical cancer in women and genital warts in men and women. Genetically modified bacteria produce the proteins, which are then purified and mixed into a sterile, water-based solution.


Question: Why should adults get the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine?

Answer: HPV infection usually causes no symptoms, but can cause genital warts and anal cancer in both women and men. The HPV vaccine prevents infection by the HPV types responsible for most cervical cancers. Today, Gardasil 9 is the only available HPV vaccine in the U. S. Gardasil 9 prevents infection by the same HPV types as Gardasil, plus HPV-31, HPV-33, HPV-45, HPV-52, and HPV-58. Collectively, these types are implicated in 90% of cervical cancers. In October 2018, the FDA approved Gardasil9 for women and men ages 27 to 45. Men cannot develop cervical cancer, but the HPV vaccine may prevent genital warts, penile cancer, anal cancer, and the spread of HPV to sexual partners. Gardasil 9 is approved for males ages 9 through 26.


Question: How can picturing a word help me improve my recall?

Answer: Carry one with you. The name April could bring to mind a spring tree in bloom.


Question: How can playing games help me sharpen my memory?

Answer: Use the one on your computer or cell phone to keep track of your schedule. Although the research on brain training is new, it's encouraging. Studies show it might improve short-term memory. One study even showed that playing a racing video game helped improve focus and memory. But more research is needed to see if it really helps.


Question: What precautions do I need to know before taking red yeast rice?

Answer: Do not take red yeast rice if you are using statins, drugs that suppress the immune system, antifungal drugs, certain antibiotics, or protease inhibitors (for HIV). People taking red yeast rice should avoid grapefruits. Also, alcohol may increase the risk of liver damage from red yeast rice. Check with your doctor or pharmacist first if you are taking any other prescription medicines or over the counter medicines or supplements. People with very high cholesterol, diabetes, or a high risk of heart attack or stroke may need a more powerful prescription drug like a statin instead of red yeast rice.


Question: How do flexibility exercises help with rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Whatever activity you do, warm up first and stretch afterward. Avoid moves that call for fast or repeated movements that hurt your joints.


Question: How often should someone with rheumatoid arthritis walk?

Answer: Build up to 30 minutes of aerobic exercise a day, five times a week. Get details on the Arthritis Foundation website.


Question: How can I get motivated to exercise if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Set a goal: Maybe you want to lose a few pounds, get in better shape for a trip, or walk a 5 K. Set small targets that will get you to your larger goal. Reward yourself when you meet each milestone. Get help to get going.


Question: Should I do warm-water aerobics if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: The water can soothe sore joints. A class can help you make some new friends who understand what you're going through.


Question: What can someone do to help their rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: It might sound crazy at first, but a workout can boost your energy and make you more flexible. The next day, try to do a minute more, and so on.


Question: Can I do flexibility exercises if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Whatever activity you do, warm up first and stretch afterward. Avoid moves that call for fast or repeated movements that hurt your joints.


Question: I have diabetes, what type of prescription medicines can raise my glucose?

Answer: They treat diseases caused by inflammation, like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and allergies. Common steroids include hydrocortisone and prednisone. Birth control pills Drugs that treat high blood pressure, such as beta-blockers and thiazide diuretics Statins to lower cholesterol Adrenaline for severe allergic reactions High doses of asthma medicines, or drugs that you inject for asthma treatment Isotretinoin for acne Tacrolimus, which you get after an organ transplant Some medicines that treat HIV and hepatitis C OTC medicines that can raise your blood sugar include: Pseudoephedrine, a decongestant in some cold and flu medicines Cough syrup.


Question: How are systemic and biologic medications used to treat inverse psoriasis?

Answer: Because of its location, the disease may also cause: Irritation from rubbing and sweating Yeast, fungal, and bacterial infections Sexual problems because of discomfort Doctors aren't sure what causes psoriasis, but they know that your genes and your immune system play a major role. You'll get these drugs by injection or infusion. If you have severe inverse psoriasis, your doctor may recommend treatments that affect the whole body to ease your symptoms. You can take some of these drugs as a pill, such as acitretin ( Soriatane), apremilast ( Otezla), (, Sandimmune), and methotrexate ( Rheumatrex, Trexall).


Question: Are there multiple treatment options for inverse psoriasis?

Answer: You can work with your doctor to find one that works best for you. They can affect the same area, but there are differences between inverse psoriasis and jock itch.


Question: What are some other symptoms of inverse psoriasis?

Answer: If you have inverse psoriasis, you'll notice red, shiny patches in certain places, like: Your armpits The skin folds around your genitals and between your buttocks Under your breasts Your groin The skin in these areas is more sensitive, so the condition is often a challenge to manage and treat. Lesions can cause cracks (called fissures) in the creases of your skin, which may be painful and bleed. Because of its location, the disease may also cause: Irritation from rubbing and sweating Yeast, fungal, and bacterial infections Sexual problems because of discomfort Doctors aren't sure what causes psoriasis, but they know that your genes and your immune system play a major role. You can work with your doctor to find one that works best for you.


Question: What are symptoms of iron poisoning in children?

Answer: Remove the Iron Supplements Check the child's hands and mouth, as well as the surrounding area, for any remaining iron tablets. The doctor will test iron levels in the body. Pumping the stomach might help, but only within an hour of swallowing the pills.


Question: How does lupus affect my joints and muscles?

Answer: Be gentle on your hair. Lupus can also damage nerves in the muscles that control your eye movements. Try a warm shower or bath, a heating pad, or cold packs to ease pain and stiffness.


Question: What are things that I can do for my heart and lungs to help lessen the effects of lupus?

Answer: Get regular exercise. Get up to date on vaccinations.


Question: Does lupus cause eye problems?

Answer: A common skin problem you might develop is a butterfly-shaped rash on your nose and cheeks. Rarely, blood vessel changes in the retina can weaken your vision. Lupus can also damage nerves in the muscles that control your eye movements.


Question: What causes Guillain-BarrÃ© syndrome (GBS)?

Answer: A few people have developed Guillain- BarrÃ© syndrome a few days or weeks after a vaccination. They are part of that immune system response that damages nerves.


Question: Can you contract both multiple sclerosis and Guillain-BarrÃ© syndrome?

Answer: It's very rare for someone to have MS and GBS at the same time. But both diseases share causes that might trigger them together.


Question: Can you have multiple sclerosis (MS) and Guillain-BarrÃ© syndrome (GBS) at the same time?

Answer: It's very rare for someone to have MS and GBS at the same time. But both diseases share causes that might trigger them together.


Question: What are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), Guillain-BarrÃ© syndrome (GBS), and chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP)?

Answer: Multiple sclerosis ( MS) and Guillain- BarrÃ© syndrome ( GBS) are diseases of the nervous system. Common symptoms of both include: Weakness Numbness Tingling in the arms and legs GBS symptoms usually start within a day and spread from the legs to the upper body. Unlike GBS where symptoms eventually ease and patients can recover, CIDP progresses and patients could have permanent disabilities. MS often starts in a few days, but sometimes symptoms don't show up for a while. The numbness from MS usually isn't severe. But the condition can also cause: Bladder problems Dizziness Fatigue Pain Tight muscles Trouble speaking and swallowing Vision problems GBS brings weakness that may last years. For CIDP, symptoms are the same as GBS as is most often marked with difficulty walking and symptoms progress longer.


Question: What do travel restrictions mean for swine flu?

Answer: For example, if tests show a child in your household has swine flu, and you get the same symptoms, you would be a confirmed case. Threat level: An alert system that the World Health Organization (see below) uses to let the public know about global health events. This helped stop the spread of swine flu.


Question: What is Relenza (zanamivir) as it relates to swine flu?

Answer: It stops the virus from spreading in your body. Relenza ( zanamivir ): An antiviral drug that prevents and treats influenza types A (including the swine flu) and B. It isn't good for people with lung diseases like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD). This eases your symptoms and helps you get better faster. Anyone 2 weeks or older can get it to prevent the flu.


Question: How does cold therapy help arthritis pain?

Answer: Many arthritis doctors recommend both heat and cold treatments to help reduce inflammation and ease the pain and stiffness that comes with arthritis. But by staying with it, you may find the right combination of hot packs and ice packs to get the most relief from pain and make it easier to manage arthritis. You can use an ice pack or a pack of frozen vegetables or fruit for 20 minutes.


Question: How often should I use heat or cold therapy for arthritis pain?

Answer: But by staying with it, you may find the right combination of hot packs and ice packs to get the most relief from pain and make it easier to manage arthritis. Use the moist heat application for at least 15 minutes before exercise. So can heat, which relaxes the muscles. Heat should be used for pain that lasts longer than 48 hours.


Question: How can menopausal women lower their odds of heart disease?

Answer: Incorporating the following tips into your everyday life may help you reduce your risk of heart disease during and after menopause: Avoid or quit smoking. Maintain a healthy body weight. Activity and exercise also help reduce many other risk factors. Treat and control medical conditions. Diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure are known risk factors for heart disease.


Question: What is generalized myasthenia gravis?

Answer: Other common muscle groups that are affected may make it difficult for you to chew, swallow, smile, shrug, lift your arm up, grip, rise to a stand, or walk up stairs. When the muscles necessary for breathing are affected, a patient is said to be in myasthenic crisis. This is a life-threatening situation. Myasthenia gravis is considered to be an autoimmune disorder.


Question: What is myasthenia gravis?

Answer: For example, if you have myasthenia gravis, you may notice that during a meal, your jaw muscles become tired and weak, interfering with your ability to chew food. After you have rested for a little while, the muscles may become strong again, allowing you to resume eating. !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(); }); } This waxing-and-waning weakness of muscles, worsening with use and improving with rest, is a hallmark of this particular disease. There typically are periods when you may notice more symptoms (called an exacerbation), interspersed with periods when symptoms decrease or disappear (remission). Myasthenia gravis is considered to be an autoimmune disorder.


Question: What can you expect when you're in stage IV of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: End-stage, or stage 4, COPD is the final stage of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. It measures: Forced vital capacity ( FVC): The largest amount of air you can exhale forcefully after taking in as big a breath as you can. The more severe your COPD, the more likely you are to get infections.


Question: What are the symptoms of stage IV chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: Many of the symptoms you had in earlier stages, like coughing, mucus, shortness of breath, and tiredness, are likely to get worse. Just breathing takes a lot of effort. You may also get a condition called chronic respiratory failure. This is when not enough oxygen moves from your lungs into your blood, or when your lungs don't take enough carbon dioxide out of your blood. Sometimes, both happen. Other symptoms of end-stage COPD include: Crackling sound as you start to breathe in Barrel chest Constant wheezing Being out of breath for a very long time Delirium Irregular heartbeat Fast resting heartbeat Weight loss High blood pressure in the artery that goes from the heart to the lungs (pulmonary hypertension) As with stage 3, it gets harder to keep up with eating well and exercising, which boost your strength and energy levels.


Question: How is secondary hypertension treated?

Answer: Secondary hypertension, on the other hand, is less common and is the result of another condition, such as: Disorders of the adrenal gland (small organs, located above the kidneys, that create hormones), including Cushing's syndrome (a condition caused by an overproduction of cortisol); hyperaldosteronism (too much aldosterone); and pheochromocytoma (a rare tumor that causes oversecretion of hormones like adrenaline) Kidney disease, which may include polycystic kidney disease, kidney tumor, kidney failure, or a narrow or blocked main artery supplying the kidney Drugs such as corticosteroids (anti-inflammatory drugs like prednisone), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( Motrin, Aleve, Naprosyn, Celebrex), weight loss drugs (such as phentermine), cold medications that include decongestants such as pseudoephedrine, birth control pills (the estrogen component), and migraine medications (such as Imitrex). In order to treat secondary hypertension, your doctor will address the condition or disorder that is causing the hypertension (adrenal gland disorder, kidney disease, sleep apnea, etc.) Your doctor may also choose to treat you with antihypertensive drug therapy, in addition to addressing the underlying health issues. If you have secondary hypertension that is caused by a drug, your doctor may suggest that you stop taking or decrease the dose of the drug.


Question: What should you expect when testing for vitreomacular adhesion?

Answer: Vitreomacular adhesion can cause swelling or a change in the shape of your macula. That'll give your doctor a look at your retina, macula, and optic nerve at the back of your eye. VMA can cause both of those.


Question: What is the treatment for jellyfish sting?

Answer: Harmful jellyfish have stingers (nematocysts) capable of piercing the skin. Apply shaving cream or a paste of baking soda or mud to the wound. Shave the area with a razor or knife and then reapply vinegar or alcohol. Eye stings should be irrigated with 1 gallon of fresh water.


Question: What are symptoms of jellyfish sting?

Answer: Harmful jellyfish have stingers (nematocysts) capable of piercing the skin. The progressive effects of a jellyfish sting may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lymph node swelling, abdominal and back pain, fever, chills, and sweating. Severe reactions can cause difficulty breathing, coma, and death. Severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing and intense pain, require immediate medical treatment.


Question: What do you need to know about jellyfish sting?

Answer: Jellyfish are free-swimming, bell-shaped, gelatinous creatures with tentacles that may be more than 3 feet in length. Jellyfish that are harmful to humans are distributed throughout the world. Other creatures with nematocysts include Portuguese man-of-war, sea wasps, anemones, and fire corals. Venoms include various substances, some of which trigger allergic reactions. The most toxic nematocystic animals are found along the Indo- Pacific and Australian waters.


Question: What causes hiatal hernia?

Answer: If the hiatus weakens and stretches, part of the stomach can squeeze into the chest cavity, producing a hiatal hernia. Most of the time, the cause of a hiatal hernia is not known. Some people develop a hiatal hernia after sustaining an injury to the chest or abdomen; others are born with a predisposition to the condition. Some experts suspect that increased pressure in the abdomen from coughing, straining during bowel movements, pregnancy and delivery, or substantial weight gain may contribute to the development of a hiatal hernia.