Question: What is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in infants and children?

Answer: But frequent vomiting associated with discomfort and difficulty feeding or weight loss may be caused by something more serious known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Both GER and GERD can cause the upward movement of stomach content, including acid, into the esophagus and sometimes into or out of the mouth. Older children also can have GERD. There also appears to be an inherited component to GERD, as it is more common in some families than in others. Usually, the medical history as told by the parent is enough for the doctor to diagnose GERD, especially if the problem occurs regularly and causes discomfort.


Question: What causes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in infants and children?

Answer: Both GER and GERD can cause the upward movement of stomach content, including acid, into the esophagus and sometimes into or out of the mouth. Older children also can have GERD. Certain factors also may contribute to GERD, including obesity, overeating, eating spicy or fried foods, drinking caffeine, carbonation, and specific medications. There also appears to be an inherited component to GERD, as it is more common in some families than in others.


Question: How might reflexology help if you have B-cell lymphoma?

Answer: A trained therapist puts pressure on specific points, sometimes with the help of rubber balls, rubber bands, and pieces of wood to help you relax, relieve pain, and increase your circulation.


Question: What is an integrative medicine strategy for B-cell lymphoma?

Answer: It's a strategy that looks at all of your health needs -- physical and emotional -- and comes up with a tailored plan that treats your cancer and manages symptoms and side effects, too. You'll get advice on how to use complementary therapies in addition to standard treatments, not in place of them. Your plan might include things like an exercise routine, traditional Chinese medicine, massage, or meditation. The goal is to soothe your spirit along with healing your body.


Question: How can nutrition counseling help with treating B-cell lymphoma?

Answer: Your cancer treatment may curb your appetite and sap your energy. Choosing the right foods can help you feel better, stronger, and more energetic. Ask your doctor if nutrition counseling is available at your cancer center. If not, he can refer you to a dietitian who has experience working with lymphoma patients.


Question: How can exercise help with treating B-cell lymphoma?

Answer: Some physical activities you might try are walking, swimming, or strength training. Before you start an exercise routine, check with your doctor to find out if there are certain activities you should avoid. He may suggest you meet with a physical therapist, who can set up an exercise plan that's tailored to your needs.


Question: How might massage help if you have B-cell lymphoma?

Answer: Ask if your hospital has one on site. A trained therapist puts pressure on specific points, sometimes with the help of rubber balls, rubber bands, and pieces of wood to help you relax, relieve pain, and increase your circulation. A therapist can also massage the oils into your body. Choosing the right foods can help you feel better, stronger, and more energetic.


Question: How might dietary supplements help with treating B-cell lymphoma?

Answer: Some people with lymphoma try a variety of vitamins and herbs, such as multivitamins, vitamin D, green tea, and flaxseed. Talk to your doctor before you try any vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements. He can tell you whether they might interfere with other medicine you take.


Question: Who is at risk for septic arthritis?

Answer: Young children and elderly adults are most likely to develop septic arthritis. People with open wounds are also at a higher risk for septic arthritis. In addition, people with a weakened immune system and those with pre-existing conditions such as cancer, diabetes, intravenous drug abuse, and immune deficiency disorders have a higher risk of septic arthritis. In addition, previously damaged joints have an increased likelihood of becoming infected.


Question: What are the symptoms of septic arthritis?

Answer: Symptoms of septic arthritis usually come on rapidly with intense pain, joint swelling, and fever. Septic arthritis symptoms may include: Chills Fatigue and generalized weakness Fever Inability to move the limb with the infected joint Severe pain in the affected joint, especially with movement Swelling (increased fluid within the joint) Warmth (the joint is red and warm to touch because of increased blood flow) A procedure called arthrocentesis is commonly used to make an accurate diagnosis of septic arthritis.


Question: What causes septic arthritis?

Answer: Septic arthritis usually is caused by bacteria that spread through the blood stream from another area of the body. It can also be caused by a bacterial infection from an open wound or an opening from a surgical procedure, such as knee surgery.


Question: What is the treatment for septic arthritis?

Answer: Septic arthritis treatments include using a combination of powerful antibiotics as well as draining the infected synovial fluid from the joint.


Question: What is septic arthritis?

Answer: Septic arthritis is also known as infectious arthritis, and is usually caused by bacteria. It can also be caused by a virus or fungus. The condition is an inflammation of a joint that's caused by infection. Typically, septic arthritis affects one large joint in the body, such as the knee or hip.


Question: What viral or fungal infections can cause septic arthritis?

Answer: Viruses include: Hepatitis A, B, and C Parvovirus B19 Herpes viruses HIV ( AIDS virus) HTLV-1 Adenovirus Coxsackie viruses Mumps Fungi that can cause arthritis include histoplasma, coccidiomyces, and blastomyces.


Question: How is septic arthritis diagnosed?

Answer: Septic arthritis symptoms may include: Chills Fatigue and generalized weakness Fever Inability to move the limb with the infected joint Severe pain in the affected joint, especially with movement Swelling (increased fluid within the joint) Warmth (the joint is red and warm to touch because of increased blood flow) A procedure called arthrocentesis is commonly used to make an accurate diagnosis of septic arthritis. This procedure involves a surgical puncture of the joint to draw a sample of the joint fluid, known as synovial fluid. X-rays are typically done to look for joint damage.


Question: How can trauma to the skin cause psoriasis?

Answer: Trauma to the skin. In some people with psoriasis, trauma to the skin -- including cuts, bruises, burns, bumps, vaccinations, tattoos, and other skin conditions -- can cause a flare-up of psoriasis symptoms at the site of the injury. This condition is called " Koebner phenomenon."


Question: What triggers a psoriasis flare-up?

Answer: While the underlying cause of psoriasis stems from your body's immune system, certain triggers can make symptoms worse or cause flare-ups. These psoriasis triggers include: Cold and dry weather. Such weather can dry out your skin, which makes the chances of having a flare-up worse. In contrast, hot, sunny weather appears to help control the symptoms of psoriasis in most people. Stress. Having psoriasis can itself cause stress, and patients often report that outbreaks of symptoms come during particularly stressful times. Some medications. Certain drugs, such as lithium (a common treatment for bipolar disorder), drugs for malaria, and some beta-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure, heart disease, and some heart arrhythmias), can cause flare-ups of psoriasis symptoms. Infections. Certain infections, such as strep throat or tonsillitis, can result in guttate (small, salmon-pink droplets) or other types of psoriasis two to three weeks after the infection. Psoriasis symptoms may worsen in people who have HIV. Trauma to the skin. In some people with psoriasis, trauma to the skin -- including cuts, bruises, burns, bumps, vaccinations, tattoos, and other skin conditions -- can cause a flare-up of psoriasis symptoms at the site of the injury. This condition is called " Koebner phenomenon." Alcohol. Using alcohol may increase the chances of psoriasis flare-ups. Smoking. Some experts think that smoking can worsen psoriasis symptoms.


Question: How can alcohol cause psoriasis?

Answer: Using alcohol may increase the chances of psoriasis flare-ups.


Question: How can infections cause psoriasis?

Answer: Certain infections, such as strep throat or tonsillitis, can result in guttate (small, salmon-pink droplets) or other types of psoriasis two to three weeks after the infection. Psoriasis symptoms may worsen in people who have HIV.


Question: What is auditory processing disorder (APD)?

Answer: Someone says, " Please raise your hand," and you hear something like " Please haze your plan." You tell your child, " Look at the cows over there," and he may hear, " Look at the clown on the chair." APD, also known as central auditory processing disorder, isn't hearing loss or a learning disorder. It means your brain doesn't "hear" sounds in the usual way. It's not a problem with understanding meaning.


Question: When should children get tested for auditory processing disorder (APD)?

Answer: Children usually aren't tested for APD until age 7 because their responses to the listening test may not be accurate when they're younger.


Question: What are the symptoms of auditory processing disorder (APD)?

Answer: APD can affect the way your child speaks as well as his ability to read, write, and spell. He may drop the ends of words or mix up similar sounds. It also can be hard for him to talk with other people. He may not be able to process what others are saying and come up with a response quickly.


Question: Who can get auditory processing disorder (APD)?

Answer: People of all ages can have APD. It often starts in childhood, but some people develop it later. Between 2% and 7% of kids have it, and boys are more likely to have it than girls. The disorder can lead to learning delays, so kids who have it may need a little extra help in school.


Question: How is auditory processing disorder (APD) diagnosed?

Answer: Your doctor can use a hearing test to see if your child's issues are caused by hearing loss, but only a hearing specialist, called an audiologist, can diagnose APD. The audiologist will do a series of advanced listening tests in which your child will listen to different sounds and respond when she hears them. For instance, she might repeat them or push a button. The doctor also may attach painless electrodes to your child's ears and head to measure how her brain reacts to sound.


Question: How can auditory processing disorder (APD) affect your child?

Answer: Your child also may find it hard to: Follow conversations Know where a sound came from Listen to music Remember spoken instructions, particularly if there are multiple steps Understand what people say, especially in a loud place or if more than one person is talking Doctors don't know exactly what causes APD, but it may be linked to: Illness.


Question: What can auditory processing disorder (APD) be linked to?

Answer: APD may be linked to other things that cause similar symptoms. In fact, it may be part of the reason some people have dyslexia. And some experts think children are sometimes diagnosed with ADHD when they actually have APD.


Question: What is the treatment for auditory processing disorder (APD)?

Answer: There's no cure for APD, and the treatment is specific to each person. But it usually focuses on the following areas: Classroom support: Electronic devices, like an FM (frequency modulation) system, can help your child hear the teacher more clearly. And his teachers can suggest ways to help him focus his attention, like sitting toward the front of the class and limiting background noise. Making other skills stronger: Things like memory, problem solving, and other learning skills can help your child deal with APD. Therapy: Speech therapy can help your child recognize sounds and improve conversational skills. And reading support that focuses on specific areas where your child has trouble can be helpful as well. You can make a few changes at home, too. Cover hard floors with rugs to reduce echoes, and limit use of the TV, radio, and other noisy electronics.


Question: Why do poor habits cause bad breath?

Answer: If you don't brush and floss teeth daily, food particles can remain in your mouth, promoting bacterial growth between teeth, around the gums, and on the tongue. This causes bad breath. Antibacterial mouth rinses also can help reduce bacteria. In addition, odor-causing bacteria and food particles can cause bad breath if dentures are not properly cleaned.


Question: Who treats bad breath?

Answer: If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy and the odor is not of oral origin, you may be referred to your family doctor or to a specialist to determine the odor source and treatment plan. If the odor is due to gum disease, for example, your dentist can either treat the disease or refer you to a periodontist, a dentist who specializes in treating gum conditions.


Question: How does what you eat affect breath?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Basically, all the food eaten begins to be broken down in your mouth. If you eat foods with strong odors (such as garlic or onions), brushing and flossing -- even mouthwash -- merely covers up the odor temporarily. The odor will not go away completely until the foods have passed through your body.


Question: How can you prevent bad breath by practicing oral hygiene?

Answer: Bad breath can be reduced or prevented if you: Practice good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque. Brush teeth after you eat (keep a toothbrush at work or school to brush after lunch). Don't forget to brush the tongue, too. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months or after an illness. Use floss or an interdental cleaner to remove food particles and plaque between teeth once a day. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash twice a day. Dentures should be removed at night and cleaned thoroughly before being placed in your mouth the next morning.


Question: What are other dental causes of bad breath?

Answer: Bad breath, medically called halitosis, can result from poor dental health habits and may be a sign of other health problems.


Question: What are some diseases and illnesses that can cause bad breath?

Answer: Many other diseases and illnesses may cause bad breath. Here are some to be aware of: respiratory tract infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis, chronic sinus infections, postnasal drip, diabetes, chronic acid reflux, and liver or kidney problems.


Question: Should I see my dentist about bad breath?

Answer: See your dentist regularly -- at least twice a year. He or she will conduct an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning and will be able to detect and treat periodontal disease, dry mouth, or other problems that may be the cause of bad mouth odor.


Question: What products can I use to eliminate bad breath?

Answer: An antiseptic mouthwash can help eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath. Ask your dentist about which product is best for you.


Question: Does smoking or chewing tobacco cause bad breath?

Answer: Smoking or chewing tobacco-based products also can cause bad breath, stain teeth, reduce your ability to taste foods, and irritate your gums.


Question: What causes bad breath?

Answer: Bad breath can also be made worse by the types of foods you eat and other unhealthy lifestyle habits. Other dental causes of bad breath include poorly fitting dental appliances, yeast infections of the mouth, and dental caries (cavities).


Question: Is bad breath a warning sign of gum (periodontal) disease?

Answer: Gum disease is caused by the buildup of plaque on teeth. Bacteria cause the formation of toxins to form, which irritate the gums. If gum disease continues untreated, it can damage the gums and jawbone. He or she will conduct an oral exam and professional teeth cleaning and will be able to detect and treat periodontal disease, dry mouth, or other problems that may be the cause of bad mouth odor.


Question: What is the role of brain messenger chemicals in the development of schizophrenia?

Answer: Others believe that inflammation in the brain may damage cells that are used for thinking and perception.


Question: How can schizophrenia affect your brain?

Answer: But what happens inside the brain of someone who has schizophrenia? Scientists are working to understand that. They've found that people who have the disorder may be more likely to have glitches in their genes that may disrupt brain development. There's another key brain difference. Studies show that certain brain chemicals that control thinking, behavior, and emotions are either too active or not active enough in people with schizophrenia. Doctors also believe the brain loses tissue over time. And imaging tools, like PET scans and MRIs, show that people who have schizophrenia have less âgray matterâ -- the part of the brain that contains nerve cells -- over time. This research is helping efforts to develop better treatments for people who have this condition.


Question: What is the role of glutamate in schizophrenia?

Answer: Glutamate is a chemical involved in the part of the brain that forms memories and helps us learn new things. It also tells parts of the brain what to do. One study found that people who are at risk for developing schizophrenia may have too much glutamate activity in certain areas of the brain at first. As the disease progresses, those brain areas may have too little glutamate activity. Doctors are working to find out how brain circuits that use these chemicals work together or are related to each other.


Question: How does dopamine behave in people with schizophrenia?

Answer: Two brain chemicals, dopamine and glutamate, carry messages to cells along brain pathways that doctors believe control thinking, perception, and motivation. Dopamine gets a lot of attention in brain research because it's been linked to addiction.


Question: How has ???????brain imaging help treat schizophrenia?

Answer: Doctors also believe the brain loses tissue over time. They can also map the possible loss of brain tissue. One study showed that brain tissue loss in young people at risk of developing the illness was linked to psychotic symptoms like hallucinations. Another study compared MRI pictures of the brains of youths about age 14 who had no symptoms of schizophrenia with those who did. It found that the teens who had symptoms lost more brain tissue over a 5-year period than the others. Research shows that adults who have schizophrenia also may lose gray matter.


Question: How does exercise boost endorphins in people with fibromyalgia?

Answer: Studies show that exercise can help restore the body's neurochemical balance and that it triggers a positive emotional state. Not only does regular exercise slow down the heart-racing adrenaline associated with stress, but it also boosts levels of natural endorphins -- pain-fighting molecules that may be responsible for the well-known "runner's high." Endorphins help to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression.


Question: What are low-impact exercises that help develop flexibility and ease stress in people with fibromyalgia?

Answer: They include: Yoga -- an ancient form of exercise that can reduce stress and relieve muscle tension or pain by improving range of motion and strength. Practicing yoga for fibromyalgia when you are feeling tense or anxious may help you reduce stress and the risk of injury when you are on the job or at home. Tai chi -- a series of flowing, graceful movements that can give you a good workout and stretching regimen. Studies show that tai chi participants also increase their sense of balance, can bend easier, and are better able to do household tasks. With fibromyalgia, tai chi can help keep your back flexible and strong. Pilates -- a form of exercise that focuses on breathing and strengthening the torso muscles. With Pilates, an instructor will help you work on postural muscles that are essential to supporting the spine.


Question: What types of exercises work best for fibromyalgia symptoms?

Answer: Regular exercise benefits people with fibromyalgia by doing the following: Burning calories and making weight control easier Giving range-of-motion to painful muscles and joints Improving a person's outlook on life Improving quality of sleep Improving one's sense of well-being Increasing aerobic capacity Improving cardiovascular health Increasing energy Reducing anxiety levels and depression Relieving stress associated with a chronic disease Stimulating the secretion of endorphins or "happy hormones" Strengthening bones Strengthening muscles Relieving pain Some new findings suggest that exercises such as walking, strength training, and stretching activities are effective at improving physical, emotional, and social function. They also are effective in addressing key symptoms in women with fibromyalgia who are also being treated with medication. Other studies point to long-term aquatic exercise programs -- such as water aerobics -- as being effective in reducing symptoms and improving the health-related quality of life of the participants.


Question: Why is exercise important for people with fibromyalgia?

Answer: Experts believe that exercise is essential for keeping muscles strong and flexible, controlling weight, and helping you stay active in other areas of life. In fact, exercise and activity allow patients to have some control over fibromyalgia and the amount of pain they feel. It used to be that doctors thought that exercise might worsen fibromyalgia symptoms or accelerate the disease. So doctors encouraged patients to seek rest, not activity. But recent scientific studies have shown that, for most patients, range of motion, strengthening, and aerobic conditioning exercises are safe and necessary.


Question: What exercises should be avoided for people with fibromyalgia?

Answer: In addition, endurance exercises help with weight loss. If you have fibromyalgia, water therapy may give you good results. Golf, tennis, hiking, and other recreational activities are also healthful. Discuss your plan with your doctor before you start.


Question: How do strengthening exercises help people with fibromyalgia?

Answer: You also condition your body, tone your muscles, and build coordination and endurance. Strengthening exercises. Be cautious not to hurt yourself when doing strengthening exercises. A personal trainer or fitness expert can explain how to use resistance, starting slowly and increasing as you build your strength.


Question: How can I get started exercising with fibromyalgia?

Answer: Begin with stretching exercises and gentle, low-impact activity, such as walking, swimming, or bicycling. Muscle soreness is typical when you are just starting an exercise regimen. But if you have sharp pain, stop and call your doctor. You may have overworked or injured your muscles. Discuss your plan with your doctor before you start.


Question: How does water therapy help people with fibromyalgia?

Answer: These exercises help to build strong muscles and tendons needed to support your joints. If you have fibromyalgia, water therapy may give you good results. The water alleviates the force of gravity and provides buoyancy as well as mild resistance. Whether stretching in the water, using a kickboard as a floatation device as you push and kick, or swimming using slow, gentle strokes, water therapy can provide a gentle form of conditioning. That makes it quite beneficial for many people with fibromyalgia.


Question: What is sarcoidosis?

Answer: Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease that affects multiple organs in the body, but mostly the lungs and lymph glands. In people with sarcoidosis, abnormal masses or nodules (called granulomas) consisting of inflamed tissues form in certain organs of the body. These granulomas may alter the normal structure and possibly the function of the affected organ(s).


Question: Who gets sarcoidosis?

Answer: Sarcoidosis most often occurs between 20 and 40 years of age, with women being diagnosed more frequently than men. The disease is 10 to 17 times more common in African- Americans than in Caucasians. People of Scandinavian, German, Irish, or Puerto Rican origin are also more prone to the disease.


Question: What medications treat sarcoidosis?

Answer: Good health practices include: Getting regular check-ups with your healthcare provider Eating a well-balanced diet with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables Drinking enough fluids every day Getting six to eight hours of sleep each night Exercising regularly and managing your weight Quitting smoking Drug treatments are used to relieve symptoms and reduce the inflammation of the affected tissues. The oral corticosteroid prednisone is the most commonly used treatment. Fatigue and persistent cough are usually improved with steroid treatment. If steroids are prescribed, you should see your doctor at regular intervals so that he or she can monitor the disease and the side effects of treatment. Other treatment options include methotrexate( Otrexup, Rheumatrex), hydroxychloroquine ( Plaquenil), and other drugs.


Question: Is there a cure for sarcoidosis?

Answer: There is no cure for sarcoidosis, but the disease may get better on its own over time. Many people with sarcoidosis have mild symptoms and do not require any treatment. Treatment, when it is needed, is given to reduce symptoms and to maintain the proper working order of the affected organs.


Question: What causes sarcoidosis?

Answer: It may be a type of autoimmune disease associated with an abnormal immune response, but what triggers this response is uncertain.


Question: What lifestyle changes can help treat sarcoidosis?

Answer: Good health practices include: Getting regular check-ups with your healthcare provider Eating a well-balanced diet with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables Drinking enough fluids every day Getting six to eight hours of sleep each night Exercising regularly and managing your weight Quitting smoking Drug treatments are used to relieve symptoms and reduce the inflammation of the affected tissues.


Question: How is sarcoidosis diagnosed?

Answer: There is no single way to diagnose sarcoidosis, since all the symptoms and laboratory results can occur in other diseases. For this reason, your doctor will carefully review your medical history and examine you to determine if you have sarcoidosis. The main tools your doctor will use to diagnose sarcoidosis include: Chest X-rays to look for cloudiness (pulmonary infiltrates) or swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy). HRCT scan (high resolution CT) to provide an even more detailed look at the lungs and lymph nodes than provided by a chest X-ray. Pulmonary function (breathing) tests to measure how well the lungs are working. Bronchoscopy to inspect the bronchial tubes and to extract a biopsy (a small tissue sample) to look for granulomas and to obtain material to rule out infection. Bronchoscopy involves passing a small tube (bronchoscope) down the trachea (windpipe) and into the bronchial tubes (airways) of the lungs.


Question: How does sarcoidosis affect your body?

Answer: In many people with sarcoidosis, the disease appears briefly and then disappears without the person even knowing they have the disease. Twenty percent to 30% of people have some permanent lung damage. For a small number of people, sarcoidosis is a chronic condition. In some people, the disease may result in the deterioration of the affected organ. Rarely, sarcoidosis can be fatal. Death usually is the result of complications with the lungs, heart, or brain.


Question: What are symptoms of sarcoidosis?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } The symptoms of sarcoidosis can vary greatly, depending on which organs are involved. Enlarged and tender lymph glands in the neck, armpits, and groin.


Question: What conditions are treated with steroid injections?

Answer: Steroids often are injected directly into joints to treat conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or other inflammatory diseases. They also can be injected into an inflamed bursa or around tendons near most joints in the body. Some people report relief from osteoarthritis when steroids are injected directly into swollen or painful joints.


Question: What are the possible side effects of oral steroids?

Answer: Side effects are much more common with oral drugs. Some side effects are more serious than others. Common side effects of oral steroids include: Acne Blurred vision Cataracts or glaucoma Easy bruising Difficulty sleeping High blood pressure Increased appetite, weight gain Increased growth of body hair Insomnia Lower resistance to infection Muscle weakness Nervousness, restlessness Osteoporosis Stomach irritation or bleeding Sudden mood swings Swollen, puffy face Water retention, swelling Worsening of diabetes Please note: The side effects listed are the most common side effects. All possible side effects are not included. Always contact your doctor if you have questions about your personal situation.


Question: What are the benefits of steroids for arthritis?

Answer: When inflammation threatens to damage critical body organs, steroids can be organ saving and, in many instances, life-saving. For example, they may help prevent the progression of kidney inflammation, which can lead to kidney failure in people who have lupus or vasculitis. For these people, steroid therapy may eliminate the need for kidney dialysis or transplant. Low doses of steroids may provide significant relief from pain and stiffness for people with conditions including rheumatoid arthritis. Temporary use of higher doses of steroids may help a person recover from a severe flare-up of arthritis.


Question: When should steroid injections not be used?

Answer: Steroids should not be injected when there is infection in the area to be targeted or even elsewhere in the body, because they could inhibit the natural infection-fighting immune response. Also, if a joint is already severely destroyed, injections are not likely to provide any benefit. If someone has a potential bleeding problem or is taking anticoagulants (often referred to as blood thinners), steroid injections may cause bleeding at the site. For these people, injections are given with caution. Frequent steroid injections, more often than every three or four months, are not recommended because of an increased risk of weakening tissues in the treated area.


Question: How do I know if steroid treatment is right for me?

Answer: In general, people with the following conditions should not take steroids: Infection Uncontrolled diabetes Uncontrolled high blood pressure or congestive heart failure Peptic ulcer Osteoporosis (bone thinning) Glaucoma The decision to prescribe steroids is always made on an individual basis. Your doctor will consider your age, your overall health, and other drugs you are taking. Your doctor also will make sure you understand the potential benefits and risks of steroids before you start taking them.


Question: How can the side effects from steroids to treat arthritis be minimized?

Answer: Steroids reduce the production of inflammatory chemicals in order to minimize tissue damage. Monitor closely to detect the development of serious side effects. If possible, use steroid injections for problems in a specific area. Use the minimal dose required to gain control of the disease. Reduce the dose gradually if the disease remains under control. Monitor blood pressure often and treat if necessary. Recommend calcium supplements, vitamin D, and bone-building prescription medications to help maintain bone strength (this is done especially if steroids will be taken for a long period of time). Have your bone density checked every one to two years.


Question: What role do steroid injections play in an overall treatment program?

Answer: For these people, steroid therapy may eliminate the need for kidney dialysis or transplant. Whether one or more of these treatment methods are used depends on the nature of the problem. For example, in an otherwise healthy person, tendinitis may be adequately treated with only a steroid injection into the inflamed area. However, in a person with rheumatoid arthritis, injections are generally a small part of a multifaceted treatment approach.


Question: What other conditions besides arthritis are treated with steroids?

Answer: They are used to treat a variety of inflammatory diseases and conditions. They may also be used selectively to treat inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, SjÃ¶gren's syndrome, or gout.


Question: Why are steroids injected to treat arthritis?

Answer: Steroids can be given topically (cream or ointment), by mouth (orally), or by injection. Whether one or more of these treatment methods are used depends on the nature of the problem. Side effects are much more common with oral drugs.


Question: How are steroids for arthritis given?

Answer: When injected, they can be given into a vein or muscle, directly into a joint or bursa (lubricating sac between certain tendons and the bones beneath them) or around tendons and other soft tissue areas. When doctors give steroids by mouth or IV, they cannot be sure an adequate amount will eventually reach the problem area.


Question: What are steroids for arthritis?

Answer: They are used to treat a variety of inflammatory diseases and conditions. Corticosteroids are different from anabolic steroids, which some athletes use to build bigger muscles. Examples of corticosteroid medications include triamcinolone, cortisone, prednisone, and methylprednisolone. Steroids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of the immune system. Your doctor will consider your age, your overall health, and other drugs you are taking.


Question: What are the expected benefits of steroid injections?

Answer: Also, the injections may help avoid the need for oral steroids or increased doses of oral steroids, which could have greater side effects. Some side effects are more serious than others.


Question: Will you need surgery to treat autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: Sometimes, if you get cirrhosis or liver failure, you may need a liver transplant. This is surgery to take out the diseased liver and replace it with a healthy one from a donor.


Question: Who gets autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: There are two major types of autoimmune hepatitis, and both are rare. Type 1 is the more common of the two. You're more likely to get it if you're a woman ages 15 to 40, although people of any age or gender can get it. Type 2 usually happens to girls ages 2 to 14.


Question: What is the recovery like for autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: After 3 years of treatment, 80% of people find their disease is under control. You may be able to stop treatment while your doctor keeps an eye on your health. If your symptoms come back, you'll start treatment again.


Question: What are symptoms of cirrhosis from autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: If this happens to you, you may also have some of these symptoms: Itching Bruising Bleeding that won't stop Swollen stomach or ankles Spidery blood vessels You feel confused Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how long you've had them. They'll also want to know what medications you take and how much alcohol you drink. Both can damage your liver.


Question: Is there a cure for autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: Both can damage your liver.


Question: What can you do to keep healthy with autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: There are also lifestyle changes that can help keep you healthy. Eat healthy foods and plenty of fruits and vegetables, and stay away from alcohol. Don't take any drugs or supplements without checking first with your doctor.


Question: What are the side effects of treatments for autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: Steroids can make your bones weak, cause you to add pounds, and give you eye problems. Azathioprine and 6-mercaptopurine can lower the number of your white blood cells and raise your chances of getting cancer.


Question: How is autoimmune hepatitis diagnosed?

Answer: If this happens to you, you may also have some of these symptoms: Itching Bruising Bleeding that won't stop Swollen stomach or ankles Spidery blood vessels You feel confused Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes) Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and how long you've had them. They'll also want to know what medications you take and how much alcohol you drink. Both can damage your liver. They'll order blood tests that can rule out other causes like viral hepatitis. Blood tests can also spot substances called autoantibodies, which suggest you've got an autoimmune disease. Other blood tests can tell if your liver has been damaged. Your doctor will do a liver biopsy. They take out a small piece of your liver and look at the cells under the microscope.


Question: What are the signs of autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: The most common sign of AIH is feeling tired. You may also notice problems like: Joint or muscle pain You're not hungry Nausea, vomiting, or belly pain Weight loss Acne and skin rashes Your pee is dark or extra yellow Your bowel movements look light Diarrhea If you're a woman, your periods stop Sometimes, AIH can cause liver damage called cirrhosis.


Question: What other drugs are used to treat autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: If your doctor says you have autoimmune hepatitis ( AIH), it means your immune system -- the body's main defense against germs -- starts to attack your liver cells. At first your doctor will likely suggest you take prednisone, a steroid that lessens inflammation.


Question: What is autoimmune hepatitis?

Answer: Doctors aren't sure exactly what causes your immune system to turn against your liver. Sometimes, if you get cirrhosis or liver failure, you may need a liver transplant.


Question: What do I do if I have a chemical burn in my eye?

Answer: Have the person immediately rinse the eye or eyes under a faucet, in a gentle shower, or with a clean container of water. Position the person's face so that the injured eye is down and to the side. Avoid spraying a high-pressure water stream into the eye or eyes. Flush with lukewarm water for 15 to 30 minutes. For severe burns, which are commonly caused by household drain cleaner, continue flushing until you see a doctor or you arrive in an emergency room. The person should keep the eye open as wide as possible. Wash the person's hands thoroughly to make sure no chemical is still on them. Flush the eye to remove contact lenses. If they do not come out, try to gently remove them AFTER flushing. Do not rub the eye or place a bandage over the eye. While waiting for medical care, have the person wear sunglasses to decrease light sensitivity. Call 911 for severe burns, otherwise see a doctor or go to an emergency room as soon as possible. Be aware that alkali chemicals (such as ammonia and oven cleaner) might not be painful but they can cause the most serious injuries. Make sure you know what chemical got into the eye so the medical team can give the right treatment. While waiting for medical care, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or the emergency number on the container if you have it for further advice. The health care provider may continue flushing the eye with saline solution, checking periodically until p H is normal. The health care provider may place anesthetic drugs in the eye to decrease discomfort with flushing.


Question: What is the follow-up care for a chemical eye burn?

Answer: The health care provider may place anesthetic drugs in the eye to decrease discomfort with flushing.


Question: How can you flush your eye if you have a chemical eye burn?

Answer: Have the person immediately rinse the eye or eyes under a faucet, in a gentle shower, or with a clean container of water. Position the person's face so that the injured eye is down and to the side. Avoid spraying a high-pressure water stream into the eye or eyes. Flush with lukewarm water for 15 to 30 minutes. For severe burns, which are commonly caused by household drain cleaner, continue flushing until you see a doctor or you arrive in an emergency room. The person should keep the eye open as wide as possible. Wash the person's hands thoroughly to make sure no chemical is still on them. Flush the eye to remove contact lenses. If they do not come out, try to gently remove them AFTER flushing. Do not rub the eye or place a bandage over the eye. While waiting for medical care, have the person wear sunglasses to decrease light sensitivity.


Question: How should you get immediate help if you have a chemical eye burn?

Answer: For severe burns, which are commonly caused by household drain cleaner, continue flushing until you see a doctor or you arrive in an emergency room. Be aware that alkali chemicals (such as ammonia and oven cleaner) might not be painful but they can cause the most serious injuries. Make sure you know what chemical got into the eye so the medical team can give the right treatment. While waiting for medical care, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or the emergency number on the container if you have it for further advice.


Question: Who talks in their sleep?

Answer: Many people talk in their sleep. Half of all kids between the ages of 3 and 10 years old carry on conversations while asleep, and a small number of adults -- about 5% -- keep chit-chatting after they go to bed. The utterances can take place occasionally or every night. A 2004 poll showed that more than 1 in 10 young children converse in their sleep more than a few nights a week. Girls talk in their sleep as much as boys. And experts think that sleep talking may run in families.


Question: What are other causes of sleep talking?

Answer: Other things that can cause sleep talking include: Certain medications Emotional stress Fever Mental health disorder Substance abuse It is a good idea to see a sleep specialist if your sleep talking occurs suddenly as an adult or if it involves intense fear, screaming, or violent actions.


Question: How is talking in your sleep treated?

Answer: A sleep specialist will ask you how long you've been talking in your sleep. You'll have to ask your bed partner, roommate -- even your parents -- this question. Keep in mind, you may have started sleep talking in childhood. There are no tests needed to diagnose sleep talking. However, your doctor may order tests, such as a sleep study or sleep recording (polysomnogram), if you have signs of another sleep disorder. Sleep talking rarely requires treatment. However, severe sleep talking may be the result of another more serious sleep disorder or medical condition, which can be treated. Talk to your doctor about your treatment options.


Question: What are the symptoms of talking in your sleep?

Answer: It's hard to tell if you've been talking in your own sleep. Usually, people will tell you they've heard you shout out during the night or while you were napping. Or maybe someone might complain that your sleep talking is keeping him or her up all night.


Question: How can someone reduce his or her amount of sleep talking?

Answer: There are no tests needed to diagnose sleep talking. Avoiding stress and getting plenty of sleep might make you less likely to talk in your sleep. Keeping a sleep diary can help identify your sleep patterns and may help your doctor find out if an underlying problem is causing your sleep talking. Keep a sleep diary for two weeks. Note the times you go to bed, when you think you fell asleep, and when you woke up. You'll also want to write down the following: the medicines you take, and the time of day you take them what you drink each day and when, especially caffeinated drinks such as cola, tea, and coffee, as well as alcohol when you exercise


Question: What is sleep talking?

Answer: Sleep talking, or somniloquy, is the act of speaking during sleep. It's a type of parasomnia -- an abnormal behavior that takes place during sleep. It's a very common occurrence and is not usually considered a medical problem. Sleep talking may involve simple sounds or long, involved speeches. Sleep talkers usually seem to be talking to themselves. But sometimes, they appear to carry on conversations with others. They may whisper, or they might shout.


Question: What is GABA?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } GABA is a neurotransmitter that blocks impulses between nerve cells in the brain. Low levels of GABA may be linked to: Anxiety or mood disorders Epilepsy Chronic pain Researchers suspect that GABA may boost mood or have a calming, relaxing effect on the nervous system. People take GABA as a supplement to try to: Improve mood Relieve anxiety Improve sleep Help with premenstrual syndrome ( PMS) Treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD) They may also take GABA to try to: Relieve pain or discomfort from injuries Increase tolerance to exercise Lower blood pressure Burn fat Increase the growth of lean muscle mass Limited studies have shown a possible link between GABA and lowered blood pressure.


Question: Can you get GABA naturally from foods?

Answer: You cannot get GABA naturally from foods. But a variety of foods contain substances such as flavonoids that influence how GABA works in the brain. These foods include: Fruits Vegetables Teas Red wine Side effects.


Question: What are the risks of taking GABA?

Answer: Researchers haven't confirmed whether or not it works for the many reasons people take it. There has not been enough research to uncover the side effects of GABA supplements.


Question: Are all teas the same?

Answer: But the leaves are processed in different ways and each tea is a little different.


Question: What happens if I go to the hospital because of chest pain?

Answer: Any allergies you have, especially ones to medications Not everyone who goes to the emergency room with chest pain is admitted to the hospital. But if there's a reasonable chance that the pain is due to a heart attack or other serious condition, you will be. For the first 24 hours after a heart attack, you're usually in a coronary care unit ( CCU) or an intensive care unit ( ICU). There, skilled staff will closely check your heart. A series of electrocardiograms and blood tests will be performed. Doctors will continue to keep close watch over you and give you meds as needed.


Question: What are symptoms that mean I might be having a heart attack?

Answer: If you have these symptoms, go to the emergency room immediately: Discomfort that feels like pressure, fullness, or a squeezing pain in the center or left side of your chest. It lasts for more than a few minutes, or goes away and comes back. Pain and discomfort that extend beyond your chest to other parts of your upper body, such as one or both arms, back, neck, stomach, and jaw Unexplained shortness of breath, with or without chest discomfort Any of the symptoms above that come with a cold sweat, nausea, lightheadedness, anxiety, or indigestion You never know when you may need to go to the emergency room, so it's best to be ready.


Question: What is the BODE Index for emphysema?

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


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

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Doctors describe how bad your emphysema is by using what they call âstages.â They use two main methods to come up with this information -- the GOLD Emphysema Staging System and the BODE Index.


Question: What are the GOLD stages of emphysema?

Answer: This is a set of guidelines established by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease ( GOLD). Your FEV1 is 80% or more. You might have had no flare-ups over the past year, or perhaps just one. You weren't hospitalized for your symptoms. Group B ( GOLD 1 or 2): Your FEV1 is between 50% and 80%. Your FEV1 is between 30% and 50%. You've had more than two flare-ups in the past year, or you've been admitted to the hospital at least once. Group D ( GOLD 3 or 4): It's extremely hard for you to breathe in or out. You've had at least two flare-ups in the past year, or you've been hospitalized at least once. Doctors call this âend-stageâ COPD.


Question: What is the function of the set of guidelines established by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) to determine the stages of emphysema?

Answer: Doctors call this the forced expiratory volume ( FEV1). If you have emphysema, your doctor will look at your FEV1. He'll also look at your other symptoms, as well as how many times you've been hospitalized in the past year because of them. Doctors call this an âexacerbation.â It means your symptoms flare up or suddenly get worse. This measures how far you can walk in 6 minutes.


Question: When does cradle cap (seborrhea) usually show up in babies?

Answer: Greasy, yellowish crusts appear on the scalp and may include a red, irritating rash on the face, behind the ears, on the neck, and even in the armpits. Your doctor will tell you how to best treat this common condition, depending on your baby's symptoms.


Question: How often do new rashes appear in newborns?

Answer: New rashes may appear in babies after a few days, weeks, or even months.


Question: When should you worry about your newborn's rash?

Answer: While most rashes are not serious, a few need very close attention: Fluid-filled blisters (especially ones with opaque, yellowish fluid) can indicate a serious infection, like a bacterial infection or herpes. Small red or purplish dots over the body (''petechiae'') can be caused by a viral infection or a potentially very serious bacterial infection. These will not lighten with pressure. Any infant with possible petechiae should be evaluated by a doctor immediately.


Question: What are salmon patches in newborns?

Answer: Salmon patches (called a ''stork bite'' at the back of the neck or an ''angel's kiss'' between the eyes) are simple nests of blood vessels (probably caused by maternal hormones) that fade on their own after a few weeks or months. Occasionally, stork bites never go away.


Question: What are Mongolian spots in newborns?

Answer: Mongolian spots are very common in any part of the body of dark-skinned babies. They are flat, gray-blue in color (almost looking like a bruise), and can be small or large. They are caused by some pigment that didn't make it to the top layer when baby's skin was being formed. They are harmless and usually fade away by school age.


Question: What causes little white bumps on the nose and face of your newborn?

Answer: When a baby's oil glands enlarge and open up in a few days or weeks, the white bumps disappear.


Question: Is dry, peeling skin normal in newborns?

Answer: The underlying skin is perfectly normal, soft, and moist. New rashes may appear in babies after a few days, weeks, or even months.


Question: How do you know if your baby has eczema and how do you treat it?

Answer: Greasy, yellowish crusts appear on the scalp and may include a red, irritating rash on the face, behind the ears, on the neck, and even in the armpits. It is caused by dry, sensitive skin, and sometimes allergies (although it can be difficult at this age to know what the trigger might be). Your doctor can determine if the rash looks like eczema and prescribe the appropriate treatment. In general, treatment consists of: Using a very gentle soap Using a gentle detergent and no fabric softener in baby's laundry Using skin moisturizers Applying a steroid cream (like hydrocortisone or even a stronger one) if the eczema won't go away Prickly heat looks like small red bumps, mostly on areas of your baby's body that tend to overheat and sweat, like the neck, diaper area, and armpits.


Question: What is erythema toxicum in newborns?

Answer: A newborn's skin is prone to rashes of all sorts. It looks like red blotches with ill-defined borders that are slightly raised, and may have a small white or yellow dot in the center. Its cause is unknown, and it resolves without treatment after a few days or weeks.


Question: How do pink pimples appear in newborns?

Answer: New rashes may appear in babies after a few days, weeks, or even months. It is caused by dry, sensitive skin, and sometimes allergies (although it can be difficult at this age to know what the trigger might be).


Question: What is jaundice in newborns?

Answer: It is caused by an excess of bilirubin (a breakdown product of red blood cells). If the bilirubin level becomes sufficiently high, blue or white lights may be focused on the baby's skin to lower the level, because excess bilirubin can sometimes pose a health hazard. Eczema is red, itchy patches on the skin, often seen on the baby's chest, arms, legs, face, elbows, and behind the knees.


Question: Is it normal for your newborn to have rashes?

Answer: Fortunately, most of these rashes are harmless and go away on their own. Erythema toxicum is another common newborn rash.


Question: How can you prevent appendicitis?

Answer: There is no way to prevent appendicitis. However, appendicitis may be less common in people who eat foods high in fiber, such as fresh fruits and vegetables.


Question: What is an interval appendectomy?

Answer: If your doctor suspects appendicitis, he or she will likely quickly remove the appendix to avoid its rupture. If the appendix has formed an abscess, you may have two procedures, one to do a CT-guided drainage of the pus and fluid, and a second one to remove the appendix eight to 12 weeks later. This delayed surgery is called an interval appendectomy.


Question: What are the treatments for appendicitis?

Answer: This delayed surgery is called an interval appendectomy.


Question: Which conditions have similar symptoms with appendicitis?

Answer: Diagnosing appendicitis can be tricky: Time is critical, yet symptoms are frequently vague or extremely similar to other, less urgent ailments, such as bladder infection, colitis, Crohn's disease, gastritis, gastroenteritis, and ovary problems.


Question: How do I know if I have appendicitis?

Answer: Appendicitis may be suspected if your doctor gently presses on your lower right abdomen and this causes pain. CT scans and ultrasound are fast and reliable -- though not perfect -- in revealing appendicitis.


Question: Can hepatitis B or hepatitis C increase risk of hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: Doctors aren't sure exactly what causes all cases of hepatocellular carcinoma, but they've identified some things that may increase your risk for getting it: Hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Hepatocellular cancer can start many years after you've had one of these liver infections. Both are passed through blood, such as when drug users share needles. Blood tests can show whether you have hepatitis B or C. Cirrhosis.


Question: What does chemotherapy for hepatocellular carcinoma consist of?

Answer: To treat cancer, doctors often place chemotherapy drugs directly into your liver. It's a process called "chemoembolization." Your doctor puts a thin, flexible tube into the artery that supplies blood to your liver. The tube delivers a chemo drug combined with another drug that helps to block the artery. The goal is to kill the tumor by starving it of blood. Your liver still gets the blood it needs through another blood vessel. You usually get chemotherapy on an outpatient basis, which means you don't need to stay overnight in a hospital. It can cause side effects, such as nausea and vomiting, loss of appetite, fever and chills, headache, and weakness. You may also be more likely to get infections, bruising, bleeding, and fatigue. Medicine can ease some of these side effects.


Question: How is a blood test used to detect hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: Your doctor may use tests to help diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma: Blood test. Your doctor takes a sample of your blood and checks to see if it has a protein called AFP. : Unborn babies have high levels of AFP, but it decreases in most people right after birth. If your blood has a high amount of AFP, it could be a sign of liver cancer.


Question: How is alcohol injection used to treat hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: This is also called "percutaneous ethanol injection." An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to see structures in your body, helps your doctor guide a thin needle into the tumor. Then he injects ethanol (alcohol) to destroy the cancer. You usually have this procedure under local anesthesia, which means you won't feel pain but you're awake while this is going on.


Question: What causes hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: Doctors aren't sure exactly what causes all cases of hepatocellular carcinoma, but they've identified some things that may increase your risk for getting it: Hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Hepatocellular cancer can start many years after you've had one of these liver infections.


Question: How does cirrhosis increase your risk for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: This serious disease happens when liver cells are damaged and replaced with scar tissue. Many things can cause it: hepatitis B or C infection, alcohol drinking, certain drugs, and too much iron stored in the liver.


Question: What is alcohol injection treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: This is also called "percutaneous ethanol injection." An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to see structures in your body, helps your doctor guide a thin needle into the tumor. Then he injects ethanol (alcohol) to destroy the cancer. You usually have this procedure under local anesthesia, which means you won't feel pain but you're awake while this is going on.


Question: What should you know about the treating hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: It's important to remember that you still have control over the decisions you make about your treatment and your life. Make sure you have people you can talk to about your plans, your fears, and your feelings. Ask your doctor about support groups, where you can meet people who know what you're going through. Your doctor can help you understand your treatment options. Surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy are some of your choices.


Question: What causes cirrhosis?

Answer: This serious disease happens when liver cells are damaged and replaced with scar tissue. Many things can cause it: hepatitis B or C infection, alcohol drinking, certain drugs, and too much iron stored in the liver.


Question: Are there treatment options for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: There are many treatments for hepatocellular carcinoma. It's a big decision, so work closely with your doctor to make the right plan for you.


Question: How long does the process of a liver transplant take?

Answer: You may need to stay in the hospital for up to 3 weeks after your surgery. It could take you 6 months to a year before you can return to your regular lifestyle. After your transplant, you'll need to take drugs that prevent your body from rejecting the new liver.


Question: What is surgery for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: Your surgeon may take out the part of your liver that has the cancer, an operation called "partial hepatectomy." Healing time varies, but you might have pain and discomfort for the first few days. Medicine can help control it. You may also feel weak or tired for a while. Some people also have diarrhea and a sense of fullness in the stomach.


Question: Is there a cure for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: If caught early, it can sometimes be cured with surgery or transplant. In more advanced cases it can't be cured, but treatment and support can help you live longer and better.


Question: How can obesity and diabetes increase your risk for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: Obesity and diabetes. Both conditions raise your risk of liver cancer. Obesity can lead to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which can lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. The higher risk from diabetes may be due to high insulin levels in people with diabetes or from liver damage caused by the disease.


Question: What will my doctor ask me during an exam for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: As the cancer grows, you may have one or more of these: Pain in the upper right part of your belly A lump or feeling of heaviness in your upper belly Bloating or swelling in your belly Loss of appetite and feelings of fullness Weight loss Weakness or deep fatigue Nausea and vomiting Yellow skin and eyes Pale, chalky bowel movements and dark urine Fever Your doctor will give you a physical exam and may ask you questions like: Have you had any pain in your belly? Are you feeling weak or tired? Is your appetite down? Have you lost weight?


Question: Does hepatitis B or hepatitis C increase your risk for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: Doctors aren't sure exactly what causes all cases of hepatocellular carcinoma, but they've identified some things that may increase your risk for getting it: Hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Hepatocellular cancer can start many years after you've had one of these liver infections. Both are passed through blood, such as when drug users share needles. Blood tests can show whether you have hepatitis B or C. Cirrhosis.


Question: Can obesity and diabetes increase risk of hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: Both conditions raise your risk of liver cancer. Obesity can lead to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which can lead to hepatocellular carcinoma. The higher risk from diabetes may be due to high insulin levels in people with diabetes or from liver damage caused by the disease.


Question: How can I manage nausea during chemotherapy?

Answer: Since chemotherapy can sometimes upset your stomach, you can try changing some of your eating habits. For instance, stay away from fried or spicy foods. You can also try eating five or six small meals a day rather than the traditional three meals.


Question: Can iron storage disease increase risk of hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: This causes too much iron to be stored in the liver and other organs. People who have it may develop hepatocellular carcinoma.


Question: How do liver transplant waiting lists work?

Answer: Your surgeon may take out the part of your liver that has the cancer, an operation called "partial hepatectomy." Liver transplant . Your new liver will come from someone who recently died and has the same blood type and a similar body size as yours. When donor livers are available, they go to the sickest people on the waiting list. Since you may have to wait a long time for a new liver, your doctor may suggest that you keep up with other treatments in the meantime.


Question: How are imaging tests used to diagnose hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: A CT scan is a powerful X-ray that makes detailed pictures inside your body. An MRI uses strong magnets and radio waves to make an image of your liver. An ultrasound, which uses sound waves to see structures in your body, helps your doctor guide a thin needle into the tumor.


Question: What is hepatocellular carcinoma and is it curable?

Answer: If caught early, it can sometimes be cured with surgery or transplant. In more advanced cases it can't be cured, but treatment and support can help you live longer and better. This causes too much iron to be stored in the liver and other organs. The cancer is treated with drugs that target specific changes in cells that cause cancer.


Question: How can you take care of yourself during treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: What are the side effects? Since chemotherapy can sometimes upset your stomach, you can try changing some of your eating habits. For instance, stay away from fried or spicy foods. You can also try eating five or six small meals a day rather than the traditional three meals. If your treatment makes you tired, you can try to take short naps. You also might find that short walks can help boost your energy. If you're stressed about your treatment, sometimes deep breathing and meditation might help you relax. Reach out to family and friends who can give you emotional support when you need it.


Question: What is hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: This causes too much iron to be stored in the liver and other organs. The cancer is treated with drugs that target specific changes in cells that cause cancer.


Question: How can heavy drinking increase your risk for hepatocellular carcinoma?

Answer: Doctors aren't sure exactly what causes all cases of hepatocellular carcinoma, but they've identified some things that may increase your risk for getting it: Hepatitis B or hepatitis C. Hepatocellular cancer can start many years after you've had one of these liver infections. The higher risk from diabetes may be due to high insulin levels in people with diabetes or from liver damage caused by the disease.


Question: What are the method used to treat depression in teenagers?

Answer: There are a variety of methods used to treat depression, including medications and psychotherapy. Family therapy may be helpful if family conflict is contributing to a teen's depression. The teen will also need support from family or teachers to help with any school or peer problems. Occasionally, hospitalization in a psychiatric unit may be required for teenagers with severe depression. Your mental health care provider will determine the best course of treatment for your teen. The FDA warns that antidepressant medications can, rarely, increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders.


Question: What are the three approaches to treat adolescents with moderate to severe depression?

Answer: One key recent study, funded by the National Institute of Mental Health, reviewed three different approaches to treating adolescents with moderate to severe depression: One approach was using the antidepressant medication Prozac, which is approved by the FDA for use with pediatric patients ages 8-18. The second treatment was using cognitive behavioral therapy, or CBT, to help the teen recognize and change negative patterns of thinking that may increase symptoms of depression. The third approach was a combination of medication and CBT.


Question: What psychiatric disorders are ssociated with teen depression?

Answer: The doctor will also look for signs of potentially co-existing psychiatric disorders such as anxiety or substance abuse or screen for complex forms of depression such as bipolar disorder (manic depressive illness) or psychosis.


Question: Why do many teenagers get irritated and feel unhappy at times?

Answer: Of course, most teens feel unhappy at times. And when you add hormone havoc to the many other changes happening in a teen's life, it's easy to see why their moods swing like a pendulum. Yet findings show that one out of every eight adolescents has teen depression. But depression can be treated as well as the serious problems that come with it. So if your teen's unhappiness lasts for more than two weeks and he or she displays other symptoms of depression, it may be time to seek help from a health professional. Anybody who expresses suicidal thoughts or intentions should be taken very, very seriously.


Question: How can medications cause diarrhea?

Answer: Some of the most common include antacids containing magnesium, laxatives, digitalis, diuretics, a number of antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, cholesterol-lowering agents, lithium, theophylline, thyroid hormone, and colchicine.


Question: How can infections cause diarrhea?

Answer: Infections: You may get an infection from contact with someone else. You may get one after having contaminated food or water. If you eat something that was improperly cooked or contaminated after cooking, the infection is called food poisoning. People who travel to foreign countries get "traveler's diarrhea," usually after drinking bad water. Infectious diarrhea is a problem in developing countries, where it may be hard to keep waste water and sewage separate from water used to cook, drink, and bathe.


Question: What are some causes of diarrhea?

Answer: Infections: You may get an infection from contact with someone else. Irritable bowel syndrome, which may cause alternating bouts of diarrhea and constipation Ischemic bowel disease, which can be caused by blocked arteries.


Question: What are the disadvantages of dental veneers?

Answer: The downside to dental veneers include: The process is not reversible. Veneers are more costly than composite resin bonding. Veneers are usually not repairable should they chip or crack. Because enamel has been removed, your tooth may become more sensitive to hot and cold foods and beverages. Veneers may not exactly match the color of your other teeth. Also, the veneer's color cannot be altered once in place. If you plan on whitening your teeth, you need to do so before getting veneers. Though not likely, veneers can dislodge and fall off. To minimize the chance of this occurring, do not bite your nails; chew on pencils, ice, or other hard objects; or otherwise put excessive pressure on your teeth. Teeth with veneers can still experience decay, possibly necessitating full coverage of the tooth with a crown. Veneers are not a good choice for individuals with unhealthy teeth (for example, those with decay or active gum disease), weakened teeth (as a result of decay, fracture, large dental fillings), or for those who have an inadequate amount of existing enamel on the tooth surface. Individuals who clench and grind their teeth are poor candidates for porcelain veneers, as these activities can cause the veneers to crack or chip.


Question: What happens in preparation for a dental veneer?

Answer: To prepare a tooth for a veneer, your dentist will reshape the tooth surface, which is an amount nearly equal to the thickness of the veneer to be added to the tooth surface. Before trimming off the enamel, you and your dentist will decide the need for a local anesthetic to numb the area. Next, your dentist will make a model or impression of your tooth. This model is sent out to a dental laboratory, which in turn constructs your veneer. It usually takes 2-4 weeks for your dentist to receive the veneers back from the laboratory. Temporary dental veneers can be used for very unsightly teeth.


Question: Are there alternatives to dental veneers?

Answer: Yes, alternatives to veneers include bondings and crowns.


Question: What happens when bonding a dental veneer?

Answer: Before the dental veneer is permanently cemented to your tooth, your dentist will temporarily place it on your tooth to examine its fit and color. He or she will repeatedly remove and trim the veneer as needed to achieve the proper fit; the veneer color can be adjusted with the shade of cement to be used. Next, to prepare your tooth to receive the veneer, your tooth will be cleaned, polished, and etched -- which roughens the tooth to allow for a strong bonding process. A special cement is applied to the veneer and the veneer is then placed on your tooth. Once properly position on the tooth, your dentist will apply a special light beam to the dental veneer, which activates chemicals in the cement, causing it to harden or cure very quickly. The final steps involve removing any excess cement, evaluating your bite and making any final adjustments in the veneer as necessary. Your dentist may ask you to return for a follow-up visit in a couple of weeks to check how your gums are responding to the presence of your veneer and to once again examine the veneer's placement.


Question: What are dental veneers made of?

Answer: Embed Asset Override Dental veneers can be made from porcelain or from resin composite materials. Porcelain veneers resist stains better than resin veneers and better mimic the light reflecting properties of natural teeth. You will need to discuss the best choice of veneer material for you with your dentist.


Question: How long do dental veneers last?

Answer: Veneers generally last between 7 and 15 years.


Question: What are the advantages of dental veneers?

Answer: Gum tissue tolerates porcelain well. Porcelain veneers are stain resistant. The color of a porcelain veneer can be selected such that it makes dark teeth appear whiter. Veneers offer a conservative approach to changing a tooth's color and shape; veneers generally don't require the extensive shaping prior to the procedure that crowns do, yet offer a stronger, more aesthetic alternative.


Question: What types of problems do dental veneers fix?

Answer: Veneers are routinely used to fix: Teeth that are discolored -- either because of root canal treatment; stains from tetracycline or other drugs, excessive fluoride or other causes; or the presence of large resin fillings that have discolored the tooth Teeth that are worn down Teeth that are chipped or broken Teeth that are misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped (for example, have craters or bulges in them) Teeth with gaps between them (to close the space between these teeth) Getting a dental veneer usually requires three trips to the dentist â one for a consultation and two to make and apply the veneers.


Question: What are dental veneers?

Answer: These shells are bonded to the front of the teeth changing their color, shape, size, or length. Embed Asset Override Dental veneers can be made from porcelain or from resin composite materials.


Question: How much do veneers cost?

Answer: During this appointment, your dentist will examine your teeth to make sure dental veneers are appropriate for you and discuss what the procedure will involve and some of its limitations. Generally, veneers range in cost from $1,000 to $2,000 per tooth. The cost of veneers is not generally covered by insurance. To be certain, check with your specific dental insurance company.


Question: Do dental veneers require special care?

Answer: The final steps involve removing any excess cement, evaluating your bite and making any final adjustments in the veneer as necessary. Continue to follow good oral hygiene practices, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antiseptic mouthwash as you normally would. Embed Asset Override Even though porcelain veneers resist stains, your dentist may recommend that you avoid stain-causing foods and beverages (for example, coffee, tea, or red wine).


Question: What does the treatment planning for dental veneers involve?

Answer: Veneers are routinely used to fix: Teeth that are discolored -- either because of root canal treatment; stains from tetracycline or other drugs, excessive fluoride or other causes; or the presence of large resin fillings that have discolored the tooth Teeth that are worn down Teeth that are chipped or broken Teeth that are misaligned, uneven, or irregularly shaped (for example, have craters or bulges in them) Teeth with gaps between them (to close the space between these teeth) Getting a dental veneer usually requires three trips to the dentist â one for a consultation and two to make and apply the veneers. During this appointment, your dentist will examine your teeth to make sure dental veneers are appropriate for you and discuss what the procedure will involve and some of its limitations. He or she also may take X-rays and possibly make impressions of your mouth and teeth.


Question: Do supplements help treat hives?

Answer: Supplements: Some research says some of these can help your symptoms. For example: Vitamins B-12, C, and D Fish Oil Quercetin But most experts say these options need more study. Talk with your doctor before taking any supplement.


Question: When should you see a doctor about stuffy ears and sinuses?

Answer: Usually, ear problems related to a sinus issue aren't severe and don't last long. Most of the time, they go away on their own. See your doctor if: You have a fever. You have head, face, or ear pain, or swelling that doesn't get better with non-prescription medication. Your symptoms last for more than a week or keep coming back.


Question: How can you treat dizziness related to stuffy ears and sinuses?

Answer: Down lots of water in the evening. When you stay hydrated, it keeps nasal mucus thin. That helps it drain and means less nighttime stuffiness. A build-up of pressure in the inner ear, including pressure caused by sinus problems, can sometimes make you feel dizzy. No fast movements. Don't stand up too quickly or shake your head fast. Avoid caffeine , salt, alcohol, and tobacco products. These can affect your circulation, and minor changes in blood flow can affect your ears.


Question: How can temperature extremes help with stuffy ears and sinuses?

Answer: Avoid temperature extremes. They can make sinus-related ear problems worse. If your ears bother you, it isn't the time to go jogging on a hot day or build a snow fort with the kids.


Question: What medications can you use to treat stuffy ears and sinuses?

Answer: This can ease the pressure and pain.


Question: What is the connection between stuffy ears and sinuses?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Your sinuses and ears are connected inside your head. So sinus congestion and stuffiness can affect the pressure in your ears. Treating the congestion may help. Clogged sinuses can mean more than a stuffy nose. You can also have pain, dizziness, and that muffled-ear sensation, like you're in a descending plane. You can take steps to relieve your ears once you know what the problem is, though.


Question: How can your posture affect stuffy ears and sinuses?

Answer: Keep your head up. If you bend forward with your head down, it can make the pressure worse. You'll want to skip yoga class until the sinus problem is over.


Question: How can a decongestant help with stuffy ears and sinuses?

Answer: Over-the-counter tablets or nasal sprays can ease sinus blockage which in turn can relieve clogged ears. But don't use nasal decongestant sprays for more than 3 days, or you will reboundâ¦ meaning the more you use it the more you need it because you're congested.


Question: How can you get moisture to help with stuffy ears and sinuses?

Answer: Use a nasal saline spray several times a day, or hold a warm, moist washcloth to your face. This can ease the pressure and pain. Humidifiers will also help keep your sinuses from drying out. Or you can sit in the bathroom with a hot shower running for 15 minutes to curb pain.


Question: How should you blow your nose if you have stuffy ears and sinuses?

Answer: Clogged sinuses can mean more than a stuffy nose. Blow your nose gently.


Question: Why should I consider switching up my workout, and what can that do for me?

Answer: You may have gotten so used to your routine that it's simply too easy now. To get faster or stronger, or just beat boredom, it's time to change things up. It's a fact: The best way to keep building muscle mass or burn calories is to make it a habit to switch up your workout -- especially when you notice that your current plan has become comfy. It keeps you on your toes. You're ready to turn your walks into jogs, lift heavier weights, or swim faster than you might have thought you ever would.


Question: How can a professional trainer or a friend help me boost my workout?

Answer: They can tweak your plan, whether you're working toward a marathon or you want to lose those last 10 pounds. And they can make sure you don't make too many changes, too fast. If you're not interested in hiring someone -- maybe getting professional help seems too expensive or time-consuming -- you could team up with a workout buddy. It makes you more likely to stick with the plan and show up. For the best results, pick a partner who's slightly fitter than you are. Research shows that working out with a person who's in better shape can motivate you to push yourself harder.


Question: What is the FITT principle, and how can it improve my workouts?

Answer: Use the " FITT" principle of exercise -- frequency, intensity, time, and type -- to guide you. Frequency: How many days a week do you work out? Intensity: How hard do you exercise? Do you reach your target heart rate? That will help you boost your fitness. Your target heart rate zone is 50% to 85% of that. Type: What specific exercises are you doing? Consider going from walking to jogging, jogging to running, or add a completely new activity -- biking, swimming, Pilates, weight training, etc. Consider a session or two, or more, with a certified personal trainer or exercise physiologist.


Question: What does it mean if muscle enzymes are too high in relation to rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: What it means: You might have an inflammatory muscle disease. Higher levels of CPK can also show up after trauma, injections into a muscle, muscle disease due to an underactive thyroid, and while taking certain medications such as cholesterol-lowering drugs called statins.


Question: What is the complement system in relation to rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Other conditions you might have: Lupus Heart attack Muscular dystrophy Early pregnancy Complement What it measures: More than 30 blood proteins that work together in your immune system during an inflammatory response. What's normal: Serum CH50: 30-75 U/m L (units per milliliter) Serum C3: Men: 88-252 mg/d L (milligrams per deciliter) Women: 88-206 mg/d L Serum C4: Men: 12-72 mg/d L Women: 13-75 mg/d L What it means: Lower levels of all three components signal lupus and vasculitis, or inflamed blood vessels. If you have lupus with kidney disease, your doctor may continue to give you this test because levels rise and fall along with disease activity. What it means: You have a form of vasculitis, or inflamed blood vessels.


Question: What blood markers are used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: But people who don't have RA can have rheumatoid factor. In general, if you have RA but don't have high RF, your disease will be less severe. Levels are high in people who have RA or those who are about to get it. If you have anti- CCP antibodies, your rheumatoid arthritis might be more severe.


Question: What does the presence of HLA-B27 mean?

Answer: What's normal: 0-20 u/m L (units per milliliter of blood) What's high: 20 u/m L or higher What it means: About 70% to 90% of people with a high reading have RA. Other conditions you might have: The profile helps your doctor look for diseases such as: Lupus Scleroderma SjÃ¶gren's syndrome HLA- B27 What it measures: A protein on the surface of white blood cells. What it means: HLA- B27 is a gene that's linked to a group of conditions (you might hear it called a genetic marker) known as spondyloarthropathies.


Question: Are there tests that determine the severity of arthritic inflammation?

Answer: Other conditions you might have: A high ESR rate doesn't point to any particular disease, but it's a general sign of the amount of inflammation in the body. It could be tied to disease activity if you have: Polymyalgia rheumatica Systemic vasculitis Temporal arteritis C- Reactive Protein ( CRP) What it measures: A protein your liver makes when inflammation is present. A high level suggests significant inflammation or injury in your body. Doctors also use this test after you're diagnosed to monitor disease activity and to understand how well your treatment is working. If you have lupus with kidney disease, your doctor may continue to give you this test because levels rise and fall along with disease activity.


Question: What is the benefit of a laparoscopic approach for colorectal cancer?

Answer: The benefit of using a laparoscopic approach is that you will likely experience less pain and scarring after surgery, a more rapid recovery, and less risk of infection than with an open surgery through a large incision.


Question: How is laparoscopic surgery done for colorectal cancer?

Answer: Until recently, all bowel or intestinal surgery was done through long abdominal incisions, which often resulted in a painful and lengthy recovery. In the early 1990s, doctors started using a laparoscope, an instrument that had primarily been used to treat gynecological problems and gallbladder disease, to perform certain types of bowel surgery. Rather than making long incisions common in traditional "open" surgery, laparoscopic surgery requires only small incisions to perform the same operation. Another type of laparoscopic surgery is called hand-assisted and allows for one of the surgeons hands to be inserted into the abdominal cavity while still viewing the procedure with the laparoscope.


Question: How is fecal diversion done for colorectal cancer?

Answer: This procedure is used to create an ileostomy (opening between the surface of the skin and the small intestine) or colostomy (opening between the surface of the skin and the colon). This is often used as a temporary measure to allow for healing of an infection, recent surgery, or chronic inflammation.


Question: What are the surgical options to treat colorectal cancer?

Answer: Colorectal surgeons have used laparoscopy to treat the following conditions: Crohn's disease Colon cancers Diverticulitis Familial polyposis Certain colon polyps that cannot be removed by colonoscopy Bowel leakage or fecal incontinence Rectal prolapse Ulcerative colitis Certain rectal cancers There are several types of surgery which may be used to treat colorectal cancer: Partial colectomy. As the name suggests, this is when the surgeon removes only part of the colon. The remaining parts will be joined together in a procedure that doctors call anastamosis. If you have a partial colectomy, then your bowel habits should go back to being pretty much the way they were before you had the cancer. Right colectomy, or Ileocolectomy. During a right colectomy, the right side of the colon is removed. During an ileocolectomy, the last segment of the small intestine - which is attached to the right side of the colon, called the ileum, is also removed. Abdominoperineal resection. This is an operation in which the anus, rectum, and sigmoid colon are removed. A permanent colostomy is required, as the anus is removed. Proctosigmoidectomy. In this operation, the diseased section of the rectum and sigmoid colon is removed. Total abdominal colectomy. A total abdominal colectomy is an operation that removes the entire large intestine. Total proctocolectomy. This is the most extensive bowel operation performed and involves the removal of both the rectum and the colon. If the surgeon is able to leave the anus and it works properly, then sometimes an ileal pouch (see below) can be created so that you can go to the bathroom as you did before you had cancer. However, often a permanent ileostomy (see below) is needed, particularly if the anus must be removed, is weak, or has been damaged.


Question: What is a polypectomy for colorectal cancer?

Answer: Polypectomy is a procedure in which polyps -- small growths on the inner lining of the colon -- are removed during a colonoscopy, a procedure in which a special instrument (the colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum to view the rectum and colon.


Question: How are stomas or ostomies done for colorectal cancer?

Answer: A stoma is an opening of some part of the bowel onto the skin. A colostomy is an opening of the colon onto the skin and an ileostomy is an opening of the ileum (or small intestine) onto the skin. A colostomy or an ileostomy may be permanent or temporary. Permanent stomas are made when stool cannot go through its normal route after surgery. Temporary stomas are made to keep stool away from a damaged or recently operated area while healing occurs. The stool that comes out of a stoma is collected in a bag.


Question: How is an ileal (J) pouch done for colorectal cancer?

Answer: To replace the rectum and provide a place to store the stool before going to the bathroom after a total proctocolectomy (see above), surgeons can sometimes create a pouch out of the end of the small intestine called the ileum. There are different forms of the ileal pouch, named after the shape in which the end of the small intestine is placed before it is sewn (or stapled) to make a pouch. The most common form is the " J" pouch. Creating the pouch is complicated and it sometimes doesn't work. To improve your chances, the surgeon will make a temporary ileostomy to allow the pouch to heal without having to defend itself from a stream of stool. Usually, the temporary ileostomy can be reversed after about two to three months.


Question: How do colorectal surgeons use laparoscopy?

Answer: Colorectal surgeons have used laparoscopy to treat the following conditions: Crohn's disease Colon cancers Diverticulitis Familial polyposis Certain colon polyps that cannot be removed by colonoscopy Bowel leakage or fecal incontinence Rectal prolapse Ulcerative colitis Certain rectal cancers There are several types of surgery which may be used to treat colorectal cancer: Partial colectomy.


Question: What is laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer?

Answer: Laparoscopic surgery The word "laparoscopy" means to look inside the abdominal cavity with a special camera or scope. To perform laparoscopy, between 3 and 6 small (5-10 mm) incisions are made in the abdomen. The laparoscope and special laparoscopic instruments are inserted through these small incisions. The surgeon is then guided by the laparoscope, which transmits a picture of the intestinal organs on a video monitor.


Question: How is a K pouch done for colorectal cancer?

Answer: K pouch. The K pouch is also known as the "continent ileostomy." Unlike the J pouch (see below), which is attached to the anus to allow you to go to the bathroom the usual way, the K pouch is a fancy form of an ileostomy. Unlike a usual ileostomy which needs to be attached to a bag outside the body, the K pouch provides a reservoir for the stool and adds a nipple valve to prevent the stool from leaking. The pouch is emptied by inserting a stiff catheter through the stoma, which is covered with gauze in between emptying. One problem with the pouch, and the reason it is not very popular among surgeons, is that the valve often comes undone, or slips, and another operation is needed to repair it. The surgery is very complex and long-term problems are common.


Question: What is a resection for colorectal cancer?

Answer: Resection involves the removal of part, or all, of the colon along with the cancer and its attaching tissues.


Question: What is a local excision for colorectal cancer?

Answer: The procedure involves removing the cancer and some tissue of the wall of the rectum. It may be done through the anus (the opening of the rectum) or through a small cut in the rectum. The procedure does not require major abdominal surgery. Colorectal surgeons have used laparoscopy to treat the following conditions: Crohn's disease Colon cancers Diverticulitis Familial polyposis Certain colon polyps that cannot be removed by colonoscopy Bowel leakage or fecal incontinence Rectal prolapse Ulcerative colitis Certain rectal cancers There are several types of surgery which may be used to treat colorectal cancer: Partial colectomy.


Question: How effective is an IUD as emergency contraception?

Answer: An IUD can be inserted to prevent pregnancy.


Question: Where can you get emergency contraception?

Answer: Some doctors will prescribe ECPs over the phone and call the prescription in to a pharmacy. As mentioned above, levonorgestrel is available at pharmacies without a prescription.


Question: How effective is Plan B One-Step as an emergency contraception?

Answer: If levonorgestrel is taken as directed after unprotected sex, it will decrease the chances of a pregnancy occurring. About 7 out of every 8 women who would have gotten pregnant do not become pregnant. However, research shows that levonorgestrel starts to lose its effectiveness in women who are overweight or obese. Instead, an IUD is the suggested option in this group.


Question: Can emergency contraception protect me from contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDS)?

Answer: Emergency contraception will not protect you from contracting an STD, such as HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The best way to avoid getting STDs is to limit sexual contact to one uninfected partner. If that is not an option, use a latex condom correctly every time you have sex.


Question: Who should not use emergency contraceptives?

Answer: Emergency contraception -- also called postcoital contraception -- is a form of birth control that may be used by women who have had unprotected sex or used a birth control method that failed. Levonorgestrel will not affect an implanted pregnancy. Ella should not be used by women who are already pregnant or may be pregnant. The risk to a human fetus is unknown. Animal studies have demonstrated risk of fetal loss.


Question: How can lung cancer treatments affect the mouth?

Answer: Lung cancer and its treatments can affect your day-to-day life in different ways. If you know you will be getting those treatments, visit your dentist as soon as possible to make sure your mouth is in good shape.


Question: How can you prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib) complications?

Answer: A few healthy habits can help you avoid the other health problems that AFib can cause. Eat a heart- and brain-healthy diet. Limit salt, and saturated and trans fats. Make fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein the majority of your diet. Exercise on most days of the week. Ask your doctor to recommend a fitness plan that's safe for your heart. Manage blood pressure and cholesterol with diet, exercise, and medicine if you need it. If you smoke, ask your doctor for advice on how to quit. Limit alcohol and caffeine.


Question: How can atrial fibrillation (AFib) cause cardiomyopathy?

Answer: AFib makes the ventricles beat faster to push blood out of the heart. Beating too fast for a long time can make the heart muscle too weak to pump enough blood to your body. This is called cardiomyopathy. Medicines for AFib like beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers slow your heart rate. These drugs can help prevent cardiomyopathy.


Question: How can atrial fibrillation (AFib) cause strokes?

Answer: That means blood can pool inside the heart. Clumps of blood called clots can form there, too. A clot that forms in the atria can travel to the brain. If it gets stuck in an artery, it can block blood flow and cause a stroke.


Question: How can atrial fibrillation (AFib) cause fatigue?

Answer: Your body needs a steady supply of oxygen-rich blood to work properly. When your heart can't pump enough, you'll feel tired. If fluid builds up in your lungs because of heart failure, that can add to your exhaustion.


Question: What can lower your chances of getting heart failure?

Answer: To lower your chances of getting heart failure, manage these four key things: Keep your blood pressure in a normal range. Stay at a healthy weight with diet and exercise. Don't smoke. Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes.


Question: How can atrial fibrillation (AFib) cause heart failure?

Answer: That prevents it from pumping blood as well as it should. After a while, the effort of pumping makes your heart so weak, it can't send out as much blood as your body needs. This is called heart failure. Blood can get backed up in the veins of your lungs and cause fluid to build up there. That causes symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath.


Question: What foods can help me manage my diabetes?

Answer: If you have diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, it's critical that you carefully control your blood sugar levels. Choose from: Fresh fruits and vegetables Cooked dried beans and peas Whole-grain breads, cereals, and crackers Brown rice Bran products It's important to eat foods that are low in animal fat.


Question: What foods should I avoid if I have neuropathy and diabetes?

Answer: Ask your doctor for an exercise routine that is right for you. Avoid high-salt foods, which can cause high blood pressure: Salt Boxed mixes of potatoes, rice, pasta Canned meats Canned soups and vegetables Processed and packaged foods (lunch meat, sausage, bacon, ham) Salty snack foods such as chips and pretzels


Question: Can I exercise if I have neuropathy?

Answer: Your doctor can get you started on an exercise program that won't be hard on your feet - such as walking, swimming, biking, or yoga. You may need to limit exercises that are hard on your feet, such as running or aerobics. People with neuropathy -- especially those with bone deformities -- should always wear well-fitted shoes to avoid pressure sores and ulcers on the foot. Alcohol can worsen peripheral neuropathy and make it hard to control your blood sugar levels.


Question: Can I smoke if I have diabetes and neuropathy?

Answer: If you have diabetes and peripheral neuropathy, it's critical that you carefully control your blood sugar levels. Ask your doctor for an exercise routine that is right for you. Smoking makes circulatory problems worse, and it worsens the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Talk to your doctor about ways to quit smoking. Alcohol can worsen peripheral neuropathy and make it hard to control your blood sugar levels.


Question: Can I drink alcohol if I have diabetes and neuropathy?

Answer: Smoking makes circulatory problems worse, and it worsens the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy. Carefully limit alcohol. Alcohol can worsen peripheral neuropathy and make it hard to control your blood sugar levels.