Question: Who should use a peak flow meter?

Answer: Peak flow meters are very helpful if you or your child have moderate to severe asthma and require daily asthma medications. Even most children ages 6 and up should be able to use a peak flow meter with good results. People with moderate-to-severe asthma should have a peak flow meter at home.


Question: What should you do once you figure out your personal best peak expiratory flow (PEF)?

Answer: Once you have determined your or your child's personal best PEF, work with your asthma care provider to determine at what point you should start taking quick-relief drugs to relieve an asthma attack or seek emergency medical attention. These are called your asthma peak flow zones. All of this information should be recorded in your personal asthma action plan.


Question: What are sleepwalking symptoms?

Answer: Sleepwalking episodes can range from quiet walking about to agitated running or attempts to "escape." Other characteristics of sleepwalking include: A wide, glassy stare as the person quietly roams the house Slow responses to questions; if the sleepwalker is returned to bed without exchanging words, he or she usually won't remember the event upon awakening. Embarassment, especially among older children, who may awaken more easily at the end of an episode Sleepwalking is not associated with previous sleep problems, sleeping alone in a room or with others, fear of the dark, or anger outbursts. Some studies suggest that children who sleepwalk may have been more restless sleepers when they were ages 4 to 5, and more restless with more frequent awakenings during the first year of life.


Question: Is sleepwalking linked to other sleep problems?

Answer: Embarassment, especially among older children, who may awaken more easily at the end of an episode Sleepwalking is not associated with previous sleep problems, sleeping alone in a room or with others, fear of the dark, or anger outbursts. Some studies suggest that children who sleepwalk may have been more restless sleepers when they were ages 4 to 5, and more restless with more frequent awakenings during the first year of life.


Question: How do pancreatic neuroendocrine cancers develop?

Answer: Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors arise from a separate group of hormone-producing cells in the pancreas. Like adenocarcinoma, islet cell cancers are generally diagnosed with imaging and biopsy. These types of tumors may cause no symptoms or symptoms related to hormones secreted by the tumor.


Question: How are blood tests used for the early detection of pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Certain substances, such as carcinoembryonic antigen ( CEA) and CA 19-9, are elevated in people with pancreatic cancer. However, blood tests don't allow for early detection of pancreatic cancer, because these levels may not rise until pancreatic cancer is advanced, if at all.


Question: When is pancreatic cancer usually diagnosed?

Answer: Diagnosing pancreatic cancer usually happens when someone comes to the doctor after experiencing weeks or months of symptoms. Pancreatic cancer symptoms frequently include abdominal pain, weight loss, itching, or jaundice (yellow skin).


Question: What is laparoscopy for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Using laparoscopy, a surgeon can collect tissue for biopsy, as well as see inside the abdomen to determine if pancreatic cancer has spread. However, laparoscopy has higher risks than other biopsy approaches.


Question: What is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography ( ERCP): A flexible tube with a camera and other tools on its end (endoscope) is put through the mouth to the small intestine, near the pancreas. ERCP can collect images from the area, as well as take a small biopsy with a brush.


Question: Is it possible to detect pancreatic cancer early?

Answer: Treating pancreatic cancer is challenging when it's discovered at an advanced stage, as is usually the case. Researchers are seeking methods of early detection, but so far none has proved useful.


Question: What tools are used to diagnose pancreatic cancer?

Answer: A doctor then embarks on a search for the cause, using the tools of the trade: By taking a medical history, a doctor learns the story of the illness, such as the time of onset, nature and location of pain, smoking history, and other medical problems. During a physical exam, a doctor might feel a mass in the abdomen and notice swollen lymph nodes in the neck, jaundiced skin, or weight loss. Lab tests may show evidence that bile flow is being blocked, or other abnormalities.


Question: When is a biopsy used to diagnose pancreatic cancer?

Answer: If imaging studies detect a mass in the pancreas, a pancreatic cancer diagnosis is likely, but not definite. Only a biopsy -- taking actual tissue from the mass -- can diagnose pancreatic cancer.


Question: When is pancreatic cancer diagnosed?

Answer: Diagnosing pancreatic cancer usually happens when someone comes to the doctor after experiencing weeks or months of symptoms. Pancreatic cancer symptoms frequently include abdominal pain, weight loss, itching, or jaundice (yellow skin).


Question: Can an endoscopic ultrasound be used for early detection of pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Studies are ongoing to see if aggressive screening with endoscopic ultrasound works for early detection of pancreatic cancer in healthy family members. Early results are promising. However, endoscopy is an invasive procedure, so its use is only justified in people already at high risk for pancreatic cancer.


Question: What is a percutaneous needle biopsy for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Biopsies can be performed in several ways: Percutaneous needle biopsy: Under imaging guidance, a radiologist inserts a needle into the mass, capturing some tissue. This procedure is also called a fine needle aspiration ( FNA).


Question: How is a CT scan used in the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Based on a person's exam, lab tests, and description of symptoms, a doctor often orders an imaging test: Computed tomography ( CT scan): A scanner takes multiple X-ray pictures, and a computer reconstructs them into detailed images of the inside of the abdomen.


Question: What is an endoscopic ultrasound for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Endoscopic ultrasound: Similar to ERCP, an endoscope is placed near the pancreas. An ultrasound probe on the endoscope locates the mass, and a needle on the endoscope plucks some tissue from the mass.


Question: How is an ultrasound used for the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Ultrasound: Harmless sound waves reflected off organs in the belly create images, potentially helping doctors make a pancreatic cancer diagnosis.


Question: How is positron emission tomography used for the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Positron emission tomography ( PET scan): Radioactive glucose injected into the veins is absorbed by cancer cells. PET scans may help determine the degree of pancreatic cancer spread.


Question: Can blood tests be used for early detection of pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Certain substances, such as carcinoembryonic antigen ( CEA) and CA 19-9, are elevated in people with pancreatic cancer. However, blood tests don't allow for early detection of pancreatic cancer, because these levels may not rise until pancreatic cancer is advanced, if at all.


Question: If there is a mass in the pancreas, how do you know if it is cancer?

Answer: If imaging studies detect a mass in the pancreas, a pancreatic cancer diagnosis is likely, but not definite. Only a biopsy -- taking actual tissue from the mass -- can diagnose pancreatic cancer. Biopsies can be performed in several ways: Percutaneous needle biopsy: Under imaging guidance, a radiologist inserts a needle into the mass, capturing some tissue.


Question: What are the goals of treatment for atrial flutter?

Answer: The goals are to control the heart rate, restore a normal sinus rhythm, prevent future episodes, and prevent stroke.


Question: How can you prevent future episodes of atrial flutter?

Answer: Prevent future episodes: You can do this by taking daily medication to keep you heart beating at a safe and comfortable rate.


Question: What is a complication of atrial flutter?

Answer: The choice of medication depends on how often atrial flutter happens, the root cause, your other medical conditions and overall health, and the other drugs you take. The classes of medications used in atrial flutter are: Heart rate medicines: The most common way to treat atrial fibrillation is with drugs that control your heartbeat. These slow your rapid heart rate so your heart can pump more effectively.


Question: How do you know what medications to use for atrial flutter?

Answer: The choice of medication depends on how often atrial flutter happens, the root cause, your other medical conditions and overall health, and the other drugs you take.


Question: How long does atrial flutter last?

Answer: Paroxysmal atrial flutter can come and go. An episode of atrial flutter usually lasts hours or days. Persistent atrial flutter is more or less permanent.


Question: How does controlling the ventricular rate treat atrial flutter?

Answer: Control your heart rate: The first treatment goal is to control the ventricular rate. If you have serious symptoms, like chest pain or congestive heart failure related to the ventricular rate, the doctor will lower your heart rate rapidly with IV medications or electrical shock. ( This is called cardioversion.) If you have no serious symptoms, you may get medications by mouth. Sometimes you may need a combination of oral drugs to control your heart rate. You might need surgery to control your heart rate or rhythm, but this is rare.


Question: What is the outlook of atrial flutter?

Answer: But if you don't have other heart disease, your outlook is generally quite good. If it happens once without serious heart or lung disease, you may never have it again. If you do have other heart disease, your atrial flutter may come back. If that happens, you should see a heart specialist (cardiologist).


Question: What are symptoms of atrial flutter if you have heart or lung disease?

Answer: Others describe: Palpitations (rapid heartbeat or a pounding or fluttering sensation in the chest) Shortness of breath Anxiety People with heart or lung disease who have atrial flutter may have these and other, more significant symptoms: Angina pectoris (chest or heart pains) Feeling faint or light-headed Syncope (fainting) Call your doctor: If you have any of the symptoms of atrial flutter If you're taking medication for atrial flutter, and you have any of the signs and symptoms described If you've been diagnosed and are being treated for atrial flutter, go immediately to a hospital emergency department if you: Have severe chest pain Feel faint or light-headed Faint When you tell him your symptoms, your doctor will probably suspect an arrhythmia.


Question: How can you take care of an atrial flutter at home?

Answer: Talk to your doctor before taking any new medications, herbs, or supplements.


Question: What should I know about primary tooth eruption?

Answer: Primary Teeth Development Chart Upper Teeth When tooth emerges When tooth falls out Central incisor 8 to 12 months 6 to 7 years Lateral incisor 9 to 13 months 7 to 8 years Canine (cuspid) 16 to 22 months 10 to 12 years First molar 13 to 19 months 9 to 11 years Second molar 25 to 33 months 10 to 12 years Lower Teeth Second molar 23 to 31 months 10 to 12 years First molar 14 to 18 months 9 to 11 years Canine (cuspid) 17 to 23 months 9 to 12 years Lateral incisor 10 to 16 months 7 to 8 years Central incisor 6 to 10 months 6 to 7 years Other primary tooth eruption facts: A general rule of thumb is that for every 6 months of life, approximately 4 teeth will erupt. Girls generally precede boys in tooth eruption. Lower teeth usually erupt before upper teeth. Teeth in both jaws usually erupt in pairs -- one on the right and one on the left. Primary teeth are smaller in size and whiter in color than the permanent teeth that will follow. By the time a child is 2 to 3 years of age, all primary teeth should have erupted.


Question: What is the best diet to treat hiatal hernia?

Answer: Oil and butter The following foods are low-acid-producing foods and are less likely to aggravate your hiatal hernia symptoms: Bananas and apples Green beans, peas, carrots, and broccoli Grains, like cereals (bran and oatmeal), bread, rice, pasta, and crackers Low-fat or skim milk and low-fat yogurt Fat-free cheeses, cream cheese, and fat-free sour cream Lean meat, chicken, and fish Water Pretzels, graham crackers, rice cakes, and baked potato chips Low-fat sweets (no chocolate or mint) You may find that some of the foods listed under "foods to avoid" may not bother you, while others on the "foods to enjoy" list may cause discomfort. Everyone tolerates food differently. To determine the best diet for you, keep a food diary for a few weeks.


Question: What foods are less likely to aggravate symptoms of hiatal hernia?

Answer: Oil and butter The following foods are low-acid-producing foods and are less likely to aggravate your hiatal hernia symptoms: Bananas and apples Green beans, peas, carrots, and broccoli Grains, like cereals (bran and oatmeal), bread, rice, pasta, and crackers Low-fat or skim milk and low-fat yogurt Fat-free cheeses, cream cheese, and fat-free sour cream Lean meat, chicken, and fish Water Pretzels, graham crackers, rice cakes, and baked potato chips Low-fat sweets (no chocolate or mint) You may find that some of the foods listed under "foods to avoid" may not bother you, while others on the "foods to enjoy" list may cause discomfort.


Question: When should I talk to a doctor about managing hiatal hernia?

Answer: If these diet and lifestyle tips don't help, or you need additional relief, over-the-counter antacids and acid-reducing or blocking drugs may help control your heartburn symptoms. Talk to your doctor to learn more about over-the-counter or prescription medications to treat your symptoms. Surgery may be needed in rare cases. Hiatal hernia symptoms can be bothersome.


Question: What are alternative therapies for essential tremor?

Answer: There is currently no evidence that alternative therapies are beneficial in treating Essential Tremor. Patients who have tremors that worsen with emotional stress may find relaxation therapies helpful, but this type of alternative therapy is certainly not a treatment. Some herbal supplements may actually increase tremor. Always consult your doctor before trying any alternative therapy.


Question: How can essential tremor medications affect pregnancy?

Answer: Discuss the use of ET medications with your doctor before getting pregnant, as some drugs put the developing baby at risk.


Question: What are symptoms of Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: As time goes on, other symptoms can appear, including: Trouble focusing A hard time doing ordinary activities Feeling confused or frustrated, especially at night Dramatic mood swings -- outbursts of anger, anxiety, and depression Feeling disoriented and getting lost easily Physical problems, such as an odd walk or poor coordination Trouble communicating People with Alzheimer's might forget their loved ones.


Question: Does ApoE cause Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: Researchers aren't sure what causes this damage or how it happens, but it could be a protein in blood called Apo E (for apolipoprotein E), which the body uses to move cholesterol in the blood. There are a few types of Apo E that may be linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer's. It could be that certain forms of it cause brain damage. Some scientists think it plays a role in building the plaques in the brains of people with Alzheimer's.


Question: How long can you live with Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: More often, however, people live with it for about 9 years.


Question: What are some factors that may trigger eczema?

Answer: Things that may trigger eczema include: Stress Contact with irritating substances such as wool, synthetic fabrics, and soap Heat and sweat Cold, dry climates Dry skin


Question: What surgical options exist to treat essential tremor nerve disorder?

Answer: Surgery: Deep brain stimulation ( DBS) is a surgical treatment option for people with severe tremor despite medical therapy. DBS involves surgical implantation of electrical leads into the thalamus.


Question: What is essential tremor (ET) nerve disorder?

Answer: Essential Tremor is a nerve disorder characterized by uncontrollable shaking, or "tremors," in different parts and on different sides of the body. Areas affected often include the hands, arms, head, larynx (voice box), tongue, and chin. The lower body is rarely affected.


Question: Can essential tremor be cured?

Answer: There is no cure for essential tremor, but treatments that provide relief from its symptoms may be helpful in improving quality of life. These include drugs and surgery that ease tremor. But not every treatment or procedure is effective for every person with ET. Your doctor will recommend an individualized treatment plan, including certain lifestyle changes that may help to reduce your tremors.


Question: Is essential tremor nerve disorder linked to other illnesses?

Answer: Essential Tremor is linked to other illnesses. Other movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, have been associated with ET. Some reports have also linked ET with migraine headaches.


Question: What causes essential tremors?

Answer: The true cause of Essential Tremor is still not understood, but it is thought that the abnormal electrical brain activity that causes tremor is processed through the thalamus. The thalamus is a structure deep in the brain that coordinates and controls muscle activity. Genetics is responsible for causing ET in half of all people with the condition. A child born to a parent with ET will have up to a 50% chance of inheriting the responsible gene, but may never actually experience symptoms. Although ET is more common in the elderly -- and symptoms become more pronounced with age -- it is not a part of the natural aging process.


Question: How is essential tremor nerve disorder diagnosed?

Answer: A neurologist or movement disorder specialist can usually diagnose Essential Tremor based on reported symptoms and a complete neurological exam. There is no specific blood, urine, or other test used to diagnose ET. As part of the exam, your health care provider may consider other causes of tremor, such as thyroid disease, excessive caffeine intake, or medication side effects.


Question: What are the symptoms of essential tremor?

Answer: The primary symptoms associated with essential tremor include: Uncontrollable shaking that occurs for brief periods of time Shaking voice Nodding head Tremors that worsen during periods of emotional stress Tremors that get worse with purposeful movement Tremors that lessen with rest Balance problems (in rare cases) The uncontrollable shaking associated with ET is not unique to this condition.


Question: What causes essential tremor?

Answer: The true cause of Essential Tremor is still not understood, but it is thought that the abnormal electrical brain activity that causes tremor is processed through the thalamus. The thalamus is a structure deep in the brain that coordinates and controls muscle activity. Genetics is responsible for causing ET in half of all people with the condition. A child born to a parent with ET will have up to a 50% chance of inheriting the responsible gene, but may never actually experience symptoms. Although ET is more common in the elderly -- and symptoms become more pronounced with age -- it is not a part of the natural aging process.


Question: Which medications treat essential tremor?

Answer: Medications: Oral drugs can significantly reduce the severity of essential tremor. Medications include propranolol ( Inderal), primidone ( Mysoline), gabapentin ( Neurontin), and topiramate ( Topamax). Other drug options include the benzodiazepines lorazepam ( Ativan), clonazepam ( Klonopin), diazepam ( Valium), and alprazolam ( Xanax). Botox injections may also be a treatment option.


Question: How is essential tremor treated using medications?

Answer: Medications: Oral drugs can significantly reduce the severity of essential tremor. Medications include propranolol ( Inderal), primidone ( Mysoline), gabapentin ( Neurontin), and topiramate ( Topamax). Other drug options include the benzodiazepines lorazepam ( Ativan), clonazepam ( Klonopin), diazepam ( Valium), and alprazolam ( Xanax). Botox injections may also be a treatment option. This treatment has been effective for vocal and head tremors.


Question: Can essential tremor be prevented?

Answer: Because we do not know the exact cause of Essential Tremor, there is currently no way to prevent it. However, knowing that ET has a genetic link brings us further in the search for effective treatments and, ultimately, ways to prevent it.


Question: What are the symptoms of essential tremor nerve disorder?

Answer: The primary symptoms associated with essential tremor include: Uncontrollable shaking that occurs for brief periods of time Shaking voice Nodding head Tremors that worsen during periods of emotional stress Tremors that get worse with purposeful movement Tremors that lessen with rest Balance problems (in rare cases) The uncontrollable shaking associated with ET is not unique to this condition.


Question: Who gets essential tremor?

Answer: Essential Tremor is the most common movement disorder, affecting up to 10 million people in the U. S. While ET can occur at any age, it most often strikes for the first time during adolescence or in middle age (between ages 40 and 50).


Question: Can you prevent essential tremor nerve disorder?

Answer: Because we do not know the exact cause of Essential Tremor, there is currently no way to prevent it. However, knowing that ET has a genetic link brings us further in the search for effective treatments and, ultimately, ways to prevent it.


Question: Can essential tremor increase the risk for other illnesses?

Answer: Essential Tremor is linked to other illnesses. Other movement disorders, such as Parkinson's disease, have been associated with ET. Some reports have also linked ET with migraine headaches. People with ET may also be at a high risks of developing dementia (particularly Alzheimer's disease) . Drugs used to treat Essential Tremor may also increase a person's risk of becoming depressed. Some experts also feel that there is no increased risk for Parkinson's disease for people with ET. Instead, some people diagnosed as having ET are initially incorrectly diagnosed and subsequently turn out to have Parkinson's disease.


Question: How is essential tremor treated using focused ultrasound?

Answer: This is an area deep within the brain that coordinates muscle control that is thought to be affected in ET. MRI-guided Focused High Intensity Ultrasound: Neuravive uses magnetic resonance images ( MRI) to focus ultrasound to destroy tissue in the thalamus. Patients are awake and responsive during the entire treatment.


Question: How do you know if your child has high blood pressure?

Answer: Your child's doctor will use charts based on your child's sex, height, and blood pressure numbers to determine whether or not your child has high blood pressure.


Question: What is acoustic neuroma?

Answer: Acoustic neuroma: This tumor in your inner ear isn't cancerous and grows slowly, but it can squeeze the nerves that control your hearing and balance. That leads to hearing loss, ringing in your ear, and dizziness. In some cases, a neuroma can press against your facial nerve and cause that side of your face to feel numb. An acoustic neuroma can be taken out with surgery, or your doctor might treat it with radiation to stop it from growing.


Question: What is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)?

Answer: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo ( BPPV): This is the most common cause of positional vertigo, a sudden feeling that you're spinning or swaying. It happens when tiny calcium crystals in one part of your ear move into an area where they shouldn't be. This causes your inner ear to tell your brain you're moving when you're really not. BPPV can be treated through a series of head movements your doctor guides you through. These put the crystals back where they're supposed to be.


Question: What is mal de debarquement?

Answer: Mal de debarquement: When you move in a way you never have before, like on a boat, your brain adapts to the feeling. But sometimes, it can get âstuckâ in the new motion, and you may feel off balance, like you're rocking or swaying, even after you've stopped moving. This usually gets better in a few hours but sometimes symptoms can persist for weeks or even years. You may experience other symptoms including a staggering walk, trouble focusing or feeling fatigue. There's no cure, but you may be able to manage symptoms with medications and vestibular rehabilitation.


Question: What is vestibular neuritis?

Answer: Vestibular neuritis: A viral infection somewhere else in your body, such as chickenpox or measles, can bring on this disorder that affects the nerve that sends sound and balance information from your inner ear to your brain. The most common symptoms are sudden dizziness with nausea, vomiting, and trouble walking. To treat vestibular neuritis, your doctor may give you medicine to wipe out the virus that's causing it.


Question: What is Meniere's disease?

Answer: Meniere's disease: People with this disorder have sudden attacks of vertigo, tinnitus (a ringing, buzzing, or roaring sound in their ears), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the affected ear. This may be caused by too much fluid in the inner ear, thanks to a virus, allergy, or autoimmune reaction. The hearing loss gets worse over time and can be permanent in some cases. Some lifestyle changes can help -- like cutting down on salt, caffeine, and alcohol -- and medication can ease attacks when they happen. In rare cases, people need surgery to relieve their symptoms. Parts of the affected inner ear are cut or removed so they stop sending the wrong balance signals to your brain.


Question: What is perilymphatic fistula?

Answer: Perilymphatic fistula ( PLF): This is a tear or defect between your middle ear and fluid-filled inner ear that can make you feel dizzy and may cause some hearing loss. You can be born with PLF, or it can be caused by barotrauma (increased pressure in your ear), a head injury, or heavy lifting. Surgery can help repair perilymph fistulas. Openings or tears can be plugged with tissue taken from the outer part of your ear.


Question: What is enlarged vestibular aqueducts (EVA)?

Answer: Enlarged vestibular aqueducts ( EVA): The narrow, bony canals that go from your inner ear to the inside of your skull are called vestibular aqueducts. If these get larger than they should be, you can lose your hearing. The causes of EVA aren't clear, but they seem to be linked to certain genes you can get from your parents. There's no proven treatment for EVA. The best ways to safeguard your hearing is to avoid contact sports or anything that can lead to a head injury, and stay away from fast changes in pressure, like the kind that happens with scuba diving.


Question: How do some drugs and chemicals damage the inner ear?

Answer: Ototoxicity: Some drugs and chemicals can damage your inner ear. Others attack the nerve that connects your inner ear to your brain. Either can cause hearing loss. Sometimes, this gets better when you stop taking the drug or stay away from the chemical. In other cases, the damage can be permanent.


Question: What will my dentist recommend if my child loses a baby tooth too soon?

Answer: A space maintainer is a plastic or metal device that holds open the space left by the missing tooth. Your dentist will remove it once the permanent teeth begin to erupt.


Question: How can I help my older kid to stop thumb sucking?

Answer: To help older children break the habit, you should try to determine why your child is doing it: Find out what stresses your child faces and try to correct the situation. Once the problem is gone, your child often finds it is easier to give up sucking. If this doesn't work, there are dental appliances your child can wear in the mouth to prevent sucking. These appliances are cemented to the upper teeth, sit on the roof of the mouth, and make thumb sucking harder and less pleasurable.


Question: Why does a child lose their baby teeth too soon?

Answer: Premature loss of a child's baby teeth typically occurs from tooth decay, injury, or lack of jaw space.


Question: How can thumb sucking cause dental problems?

Answer: But if thumb sucking continues beyond the age of 5, when the permanent teeth begin to come in, dental problems can occur. Depending on the frequency, intensity, and duration of the sucking, the teeth can be pushed out of alignment, causing them to protrude and create an overbite. Your child may also have difficulty with the correct pronunciation of words. In addition, the upper and lower jaws can become misaligned and the roof of the mouth might become malformed.


Question: When should I consult a speech specialist about my child's tounge thrusting?

Answer: If you notice symptoms of tongue thrusting, consult a speech pathologist. This person can develop a treatment plan that helps your child to increase the strength of the chewing muscles and develop a new swallowing pattern.


Question: How can lip sucking be a problem for my child?

Answer: Just like thumb sucking, tongue thrusting exerts pressure against the front teeth, pushing them out of alignment, which causes them to protrude, creating an overbite, and possibly interfering with proper speech development.


Question: What happens if baby bottle tooth decay is left untreated?

Answer: If left untreated, decayed teeth can cause pain and make it difficult to chew and eat. Also, baby teeth serve as "space savers" for adult teeth. If baby teeth are damaged or destroyed, they can't help guide permanent teeth into their proper position, possibly resulting in crowded or crooked permanent teeth.


Question: What are side effects of SAM-e?

Answer: SAM-e seems to be a relatively safe drug. High doses of oral SAM-e can cause symptoms like gas, upset stomach, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, anxiety, and skin rashes. SAM-e can also trigger an allergic reaction in some people.


Question: How much SAM-e should you take?

Answer: There is no established ideal dose of SAM-e. For depression, many studies have used between 800 -1,600 milligrams daily. For osteoarthritis, 600-1,200 milligrams daily of SAM-e divided into three doses is common. Ask your doctor for advice. Sometimes, the dose of SAM-e is increased gradually over a few weeks. This can help reduce side effects such as restlessness or anxiety.


Question: Why do people take SAM-e?

Answer: SAM-e has good evidence as a treatment for osteoarthritis pain. Some studies have found that oral SAM-e is as effective as NSAID painkillers, such as ibuprofen and Celebrex. SAM-e takes longer to act than drugs do, but it also has fewer side effects than NSAIDs. SAM-e has also been used to treat depression for many years. Some studies have found that SAM-e might work as well as tricyclic antidepressants in relieving symptoms.


Question: Is botulinum toxin a wrinkle filler?

Answer: They include: Botulinum toxin ( Botox Cosmetic, Dysport, Jeuveau, Xeomin) is not an actual wrinkle filler. Rather, botulinum toxin is injected into facial muscles to immobilize the underlying cause of lines and wrinkles. Botulinum toxin may improve eyebrow furrows, crow's feet, and forehead creases.


Question: What wrinkle filler injections last longest?

Answer: Other fillers last longer: Juvederm Voluma, Restylane Lyft, and Sculptra last up to one year or longer. Radiesse and Juvederm Vollure last up to one and a half years. Bellafill is a semi-permanent filler that can last years.


Question: What is hyaluronic acid?

Answer: Hyaluronic acid ( Belotero, Elevess, Juvederm, Prevelle Silk, Restylane, Restylane Lyft) is a substance normally made by the body that gives your skin its volume and fullness. Hyaluronic acid injections fill the space between collagen and elastin fibers within the skin, which replenishes the natural volume lost with aging. There is always a risk for skin infection with injections, and you will need repeated treatments to maintain the result. Hyaluronic acid also attracts and binds water, which helps maintain fullness where it's injected.


Question: What type of wrinkle filler is fat?

Answer: Fat from your own thighs or abdomen can be also be injected. There's no risk of allergic reaction, and most people achieve semi-permanent results. Several injections may be required to get the most benefit.


Question: What are polymethylmethacrylate beads?

Answer: Thousands of synthetic PMMA microspheres are embedded in cow collagen, which is gradually absorbed by your body and replaced by your own collagen. Since the beads are not readily reabsorbed, and your own collagen is stimulated to form around them, this filler can last for years. Injections are placed under skin folds and in hollows to re-volumize and improve skin tone and texture.


Question: What is calcium hydroxylapatite?

Answer: Calcium hydroxylapatite ( Radiesse) is a semi-permanent wrinkle filler that's suspended in an aqueous gel and used to increase soft tissue. This is a collagen stimulator to improve the surface texture of your skin as well as stimulate your own collagen to enable the product to last longer.


Question: What is poly-L-lactic acid?

Answer: Poly- L-lactic acid ( Sculptra) is an injectable filler used to replace lost facial fat. This synthetic polymer has been used for many years in dissolvable stitches and bone screws. This product stimulates the body's own collagen for better skin texture and a more long lasting result.


Question: How do collagen injections fight wrinkles?

Answer: By supplementing your skin's own collagen, injections help smooth facial lines and some types of scars. The natural beauty of your skin is enhanced as the contour of the support structure is restored. These products can come from cows (bovine) or human cells.


Question: When should you get Mohs surgery?

Answer: Mohs surgery is best in these situations: Your skin cancer is likely to come back or has already returned since your last treatment. It's located in a part of your body where it's important to keep as much healthy tissue as possible. It's especially big or grows fast. It has uneven edges.


Question: What should you expect after Mohs surgery?

Answer: Depending on your situation, she'll go with one of these: Stitch the wound closed. Let the incision heal by itself. Take a flap of skin from a nearby part of your body to help cover the wound. Take a skin graft from another part of your body to help cover the wound. Temporarily close the wound and set reconstructive surgery for later. Because your surgeon will be able to see the results right after the tissue is removed, you'll likely go home with all your skin cancer removed. But you may need to follow up with your doctor just to make sure your recovery is going well. You may have discomfort, bleeding, redness, or swelling after the procedure, but these issues should go away on their own before long. Your doctor will give you instructions on how to clean the wound and about any medicine you need to take. It's a good idea to have someone take you home afterwards. If you're taking sedatives or prescription painkillers, driving yourself home is not an option.


Question: What are the risks associated with Mohs surgery?

Answer: Mohs surgery is generally considered very safe, but there are some risks: Bleeding from the site of surgery Bleeding into the wound (hematoma) from surrounding tissue Pain or tenderness in the area where skin was removed Infection Although these are less likely to happen, there are other potential problems: You could have temporary or permanent numbness in the area where the skin was removed. If your tumor was large and your surgeon cut a muscle nerve while removing it, you might feel some weakness in that part of your body. You might feel itching or shooting pain. You could develop a thick, raised scar.


Question: Can cancer come back after Mohs surgery?

Answer: Mohs surgery has the highest cure rate of all treatments for basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas -- more than 99% for new skin cancers and 95% if the cancer comes back. Your doctor will want to schedule regular follow-ups with you to check your skin for new cancers. Twice a year is normal, but you may need them more often if the cancer is an aggressive type that's more likely to come back. You and your doctor will decide on the right schedule.


Question: What breakfast foods can boost my energy?

Answer: People who eat breakfast every morning report less fatigue and stress than people who skip it. High-fiber foods, like hot oatmeal, stick with you longer than a sweet roll or pastry. As the day wears on, they'll prevent you from getting hungry (hunger can lead to low energy).


Question: What snacks can boost my energy?

Answer: Your brain needs fuel to function at its best. When your blood sugar level drops, your mind will start running on fumes and will feel fuzzy as a result. So if your head is starting to droop, eat a snack that will give you enough energy to take you through the rest of the afternoon. Snacks that combine protein with slow-burning carbs -- like banana slices with peanut butter, or granola with fresh berries -- are best for maintaining your blood sugar levels over the long term.


Question: How does exercise help me boost my energy?

Answer: Exercise is a natural energy booster, because whenever you do it, oxygen-rich blood surges through your body to your heart, muscles, and brain. Regularly squeezing a workout into your day -- even if you can spare only 10 minutes at a time -- will help keep your energy levels at their peak. Move around every chance you get, even if it's just to pace in circles while you're on the phone.


Question: What types of nuts can I eat to help me boost my energy?

Answer: Eat a handful of almonds or peanuts, which are high in magnesium and folate (folic acid). These nutrients are essential for energy and cell production. A lack of these nutrients in your system can leave you feeling weary.


Question: What can I do socially to help me boost my energy?

Answer: Hang out with upbeat friends. Emotions are surprisingly contagious. People who are constantly negative and down can sap your energy, while those who are always up and excited can give you a real lift.


Question: How can drinking water often help boost my energy?

Answer: Dehydration can leave you feeling drained and fatigued. You don't necessarily have to follow the "eight glasses a day" rule, but you do want to drink enough water to keep your body well hydrated. You can tell you're well hydrated when you don't feel thirsty and your urine is light-colored. Try to get to the fridge or water cooler for a refill every few hours. The walk there will also help you wake up.


Question: How can a cinnamon stick help boost my energy?

Answer: Some people say that just a whiff of this scented spice can reduce fatigue and make them feel more alert. No cinnamon handy? Grab a mint from your bag. Peppermint's sweet aroma is another fatigue fighter for some people. More research is needed to see if and how these aromas actually affect a person's energy level.


Question: How can singing help me boost my energy?

Answer: Singing gives you a kind of emotional high while it reduces levels of stress hormones in your body. So grab a hairbrush, put on your favorite song, and sing away. If you're at work and don't want to face your co-workers' puzzled stares, you might want to save your vocal stylings for the car.


Question: How can yoga boost my energy?

Answer: Do a downward dog. Some studies have found that yoga, which uses various postures and deep breathing for exercise and meditation, can be an excellent fatigue fighter.


Question: How can sunshine help  boost my energy?

Answer: Going outside can even improve your self-esteem. If you absolutely can't get out, at least open the shades.


Question: Are there long-lasting side effects of chemotherapy?

Answer: That's what causes some of the side effects from the treatment.


Question: What side effects of chemotherapy go away after treatment?

Answer: That's what causes some of the side effects from the treatment.


Question: How do you know what chemotherapy is best for you?

Answer: It depends on your overall health, the type of cancer you have, how far along it is, and the amount and type of chemotherapy drugs.


Question: Where can chemotherapy take place?

Answer: It also depends on where you live, and whether you get treatment at home, in an office clinic, or during a hospital stay.


Question: What is a personalized chemotherapy plan based on?

Answer: It depends on your overall health, the type of cancer you have, how far along it is, and the amount and type of chemotherapy drugs.


Question: What is the treatment for itching as a result of polycythemia vera?

Answer: If you have itching that doesn't go away, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines.


Question: What questions might your doctor ask about polycythemia vera?

Answer: Your doctor may ask you questions like: Do you get a lot of headaches? Have you lost weight lately? Do you sometimes feel dizzy or weak? Have you had shortness of breath? Do you sweat a lot at night?


Question: How is polycythemia vera treated?

Answer: The treatment you get depends on your age and your situation. If you don't have a lot of symptoms, your doctor may just want to check you every now and then without treatment.


Question: What can happen if you don't treat polycythemia vera?

Answer: Without treatment, the extra red blood cells in your veins can cause clots that slow your blood flow. This makes you more likely to have a stroke or heart attack. It can also cause pain called angina in your chest.


Question: How is an EPO level used to diagnose polycythemia vera?

Answer: This test measures how much of the hormone EPO you have in your blood. EPO tells your bone marrow to make blood cells. People who have polycythemia vera have very low amounts of it.


Question: What questions should you ask your doctor about polycythemia vera?

Answer: Before your appointment, it's a good idea to make a list of things to ask your doctor, such as: Which treatment do you recommend? What are the side effects? How can I prevent complications? Since I have polycythemia vera, am I more likely to have a stroke or heart attack? How can I ease my symptoms?


Question: When are antihistamines used for treating polycythemia vera?

Answer: If you have itching that doesn't go away, your doctor may prescribe antihistamines.


Question: What are signs of polycythemia vera?

Answer: You might have warning signs like dizziness or feeling tired and weak, but lots of things can cause those symptoms. If you have polycythemia vera, the first sign may be when a routine blood test shows that you have a high number of blood cells.


Question: What medicine to lower blood cells is used to treat polycythemia vera?

Answer: If you need more than phlebotomy and aspirin, your doctor may prescribe hydroxyurea ( Droxia, Hydrea), a pill that lowers your red blood count and eases symptoms.


Question: What drugs are used to treat polycythemia vera?

Answer: Another drug, interferon alfa ( Intron A), helps the immune system cut back on making blood cells. The drug ruxolitinib ( Jakafi) is approved for use in people who aren't helped by hydroxyurea or can't handle its side effects.


Question: What is the first sign of polycythemia vera?

Answer: You might have warning signs like dizziness or feeling tired and weak, but lots of things can cause those symptoms. If you have polycythemia vera, the first sign may be when a routine blood test shows that you have a high number of blood cells.


Question: What effect do the extra red blood cells have on the body?

Answer: Without treatment, the extra red blood cells in your veins can cause clots that slow your blood flow. This makes you more likely to have a stroke or heart attack. It can also cause pain called angina in your chest.


Question: How is EPO level used to diagnose polycythemia vera?

Answer: This test measures how much of the hormone EPO you have in your blood. EPO tells your bone marrow to make blood cells. People who have polycythemia vera have very low amounts of it.


Question: What should you expect if you have polycythemia vera?

Answer: Although there's no cure, the right treatment can help you manage this disease for many years. Remember that everyone's case is different. With good care, you can still have an active lifestyle. It's rare, but your condition could lead to acute leukemia or myelofibrosis, which are also blood diseases but are more serious than polycythemia vera. Acute leukemia is a blood cancer that gets worse quickly. Myelofibrosis is a condition in which your bone marrow gets filled with scar tissue.


Question: Are there groups that provide polycythemia vera support?

Answer: The MPN Research Foundation has more information about polycythemia vera. It can also help you find support groups.


Question: How is a phlebotomy used to treat polycythemia vera?

Answer: This is often the first treatment people with polycythemia vera get. Your doctor removes blood from your vein. It's a lot like donating blood. The goal is to lower your number of blood cells. After it's done, your blood will be thinner and it'll flow more easily. You'll usually feel better, too. Some symptoms will ease, like headaches or dizziness. Your doctor will decide how often you need phlebotomy. For some people, it's the only treatment they need for many years.


Question: Where can you get support for polycythemia vera?

Answer: Talk to your friends and family about how to keep a positive attitude. You may also want to join a support group for people with your condition. The MPN Research Foundation has more information about polycythemia vera. It can also help you find support groups.


Question: Does polycythemia vera lead to leukemia or myelofibrosis?

Answer: It's rare, but your condition could lead to acute leukemia or myelofibrosis, which are also blood diseases but are more serious than polycythemia vera. Acute leukemia is a blood cancer that gets worse quickly. Myelofibrosis is a condition in which your bone marrow gets filled with scar tissue.


Question: How is a blood smear used to diagnose polycythemia vera?

Answer: In this test, your doctor will look at a sample of your blood through a microscope. It's a way to check for other diseases that are sometimes linked to polycythemia vera.


Question: What are the treatment options for polycythemia vera?

Answer: Polycythemia vera is different for each person who has it. If you don't have many symptoms, you might not need treatment right away. Your doctor will keep a close watch on you. If you do need treatment, its goal is to lower the amount of red blood cells your body makes and prevent blood clots and other complications. Your options include: Phlebotomy.


Question: When do most people find out about polycythemia vera?

Answer: If you have polycythemia vera, you'd usually find out about it when you're 60 or older. But it can happen at any age. It's more common among men than women.


Question: What is the genetic cause of polycythemia vera?

Answer: Your bone marrow makes three types of blood cells: Red White Platelets Red blood cells carry oxygen, white fight infections, and platelets clot your blood to stop bleeding. Most people with polycythemia vera have too many red blood cells. But the disease can also cause you to have too many white blood cells and platelets. Most likely, the problem in your JAK2 or TET2 gene happened over the course of your life. It's rare, but parents can pass these broken genes to children.


Question: What is a complete blood count and how is it used to diagnose polycythemia vera?

Answer: Your doctor takes a sample of your blood and sends it to a lab, where a machine counts the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets you have. An unusually high number of any of these could be a sign of polycythemia vera.


Question: How long does it take for polycythemia vera to develop?

Answer: This disease gets worse very slowly, usually over many years. Although it can be life-threatening if you don't get treatment, most people have a good chance of living a long life when they get the right care.


Question: How is medicine used to lower blood cells in order to treat polycythemia vera?

Answer: If you need more than phlebotomy and aspirin, your doctor may prescribe hydroxyurea ( Droxia, Hydrea), a pill that lowers your red blood count and eases symptoms. Another drug, interferon alfa ( Intron A), helps the immune system cut back on making blood cells. The drug ruxolitinib ( Jakafi) is approved for use in people who aren't helped by hydroxyurea or can't handle its side effects.


Question: What are questions to ask my doctor about polycythemia vera?

Answer: Before your appointment, it's a good idea to make a list of things to ask your doctor, such as: Which treatment do you recommend? What are the side effects? How can I prevent complications? Since I have polycythemia vera, am I more likely to have a stroke or heart attack? How can I ease my symptoms?


Question: What are warning signs of self-injury?

Answer: The most common types of self-injury include: Frequent cuts and burns that cannot be explained Self-punching or scratching Needle sticking Head banging Eye pressing Finger or arm biting Pulling out one's hair Picking at one's skin Signs that an individual may be engaging in self-injury include: Wearing pants and long sleeves in warm weather Scars (from cutting and burning, etc.) on the body The appearance of lighters, razors, or sharp objects that one would not expect among a person's belongings Low self-esteem Difficulty handling feelings Relationship problems Poor functioning at work, school, or home If an individual shows signs of self-injury, a mental health professional with self-injury expertise should be consulted.


Question: What are risk factors for self-injury?

Answer: Self-injury occurs more often among: Adolescent females People who have a history of physical, emotional, or sexual abuse People who have co-existing problems of substance abuse, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or eating disorders Individuals who were often raised in families that discouraged expression of anger Individuals who lack skills to express their emotions and lack a good social support network Self-injury usually occurs when people face what seem like overwhelming or distressing feelings.


Question: What are types of self-injury?

Answer: The most common types of self-injury include: Frequent cuts and burns that cannot be explained Self-punching or scratching Needle sticking Head banging Eye pressing Finger or arm biting Pulling out one's hair Picking at one's skin Signs that an individual may be engaging in self-injury include: Wearing pants and long sleeves in warm weather Scars (from cutting and burning, etc.)


Question: Is my cluster headache related to a brain condition?

Answer: An underlying brain condition, such as a tumor or aneurysm, won't cause these headaches.


Question: Are cluster headaches associated with any other symptoms?

Answer: They might even wake you up an hour or two after you go to bed.


Question: What is linked to cluster headaches?

Answer: Predictable: Attacks seem to be linked to the circadian rhythm, your body's 24-hour clock. They happen so regularly, generally at the same time each day, that they've been called "alarm clock headaches." They might even wake you up an hour or two after you go to bed. Nighttime attacks can be more severe than the daytime ones.


Question: When are cluster headaches more common?

Answer: When that happens, you may notice: Discomfort or a mild burning sensation Swollen or drooping eye Smaller pupil in the eye Eye redness or watering Runny or congested nose Red, warm face Sweating You're sensitive to light Cluster headaches are more common in people who smoke or are heavy drinkers. During a cluster period, you'll be more sensitive to alcohol and nicotine -- just a bit of alcohol can trigger a headache. But drinking won't trigger one during headache-free periods.


Question: How long does it take for cluster headaches to reach their full force?

Answer: They include: Speed: Cluster headaches generally reach their full force quickly -- within 5 or 10 minutes.


Question: Are cluster headaches common in people who smoke or drink?

Answer: When that happens, you may notice: Discomfort or a mild burning sensation Swollen or drooping eye Smaller pupil in the eye Eye redness or watering Runny or congested nose Red, warm face Sweating You're sensitive to light Cluster headaches are more common in people who smoke or are heavy drinkers. During a cluster period, you'll be more sensitive to alcohol and nicotine -- just a bit of alcohol can trigger a headache. But drinking won't trigger one during headache-free periods.


Question: How long does a cluster headache last?

Answer: They can be as short as 15 minutes or as long as 3 hours, but then they disappear. You'll probably get one to three of these headaches a day.


Question: How can you get cluster headaches?

Answer: These are the least common type of headaches, affecting less than 1 in 1,000 people. Men get them more than women do. You usually start getting them before age 30. Cluster headaches may disappear completely (go into remission) for months or years, but they can come back without any warning.


Question: Is surgery used to treat cluster headaches?

Answer: Surgery If nothing else works, surgery may be an option for people who don't get a break from cluster headaches. Deep brain stimulation, which involves placing an electrode deep into the brain, is losing favor to less invasive options. Most procedures involve blocking the trigeminal nerve, a main pathway for pain.


Question: What are warning signs of a cluster headache?

Answer: When that happens, you may notice: Discomfort or a mild burning sensation Swollen or drooping eye Smaller pupil in the eye Eye redness or watering Runny or congested nose Red, warm face Sweating You're sensitive to light Cluster headaches are more common in people who smoke or are heavy drinkers.


Question: When during the day do cluster headaches normally happen?

Answer: Predictable: Attacks seem to be linked to the circadian rhythm, your body's 24-hour clock. They happen so regularly, generally at the same time each day, that they've been called "alarm clock headaches." They might even wake you up an hour or two after you go to bed. Nighttime attacks can be more severe than the daytime ones.


Question: What are the usual warning signs of cluster headaches?

Answer: When that happens, you may notice: Discomfort or a mild burning sensation Swollen or drooping eye Smaller pupil in the eye Eye redness or watering Runny or congested nose Red, warm face Sweating You're sensitive to light Cluster headaches are more common in people who smoke or are heavy drinkers.


Question: What are the symptoms of optic neuritis?

Answer: This condition usually comes on quickly, over a few hours or days. You may notice some of these symptoms: Pain when you move your eyes Blurred vision Loss of color vision Trouble seeing to the side A hole in the center of your vision Blindness in rare cases Headache -- a dull ache behind your eyes Adults usually get optic neuritis in only one eye, but children may have it in both.


Question: How do I know if I have optic neuritis?

Answer: If your doctor thinks you have optic neuritis, she'll refer you to a doctor who treats eye diseases, called an ophthalmologist. You'll likely have a routine eye exam to check: Your color vision The smallest letters you can read on a chart Your side, or peripheral, vision She'll also use a test called magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI).


Question: What does it mean if you have optic neuritis?

Answer: It can happen all of a sudden. Your vision gets dim or blurry. You can't see colors. Your eyes hurt when you move them. It's a common problem for people living with multiple sclerosis ( MS). The symptoms can seem scary, but most people recover fully, often without treatment.


Question: How do you know if you have optic neuritis?

Answer: If your doctor thinks you have optic neuritis, she'll refer you to a doctor who treats eye diseases, called an ophthalmologist. You'll likely have a routine eye exam to check: Your color vision The smallest letters you can read on a chart Your side, or peripheral, vision She'll also use a test called magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI). It creates a detailed picture of your brain and helps your doctor look for damaged areas called lesions. She may inject dye into a vein in your arm. It will make your optic nerve and brain easier to see. Other tests your doctor might use include: Pupillary reaction test: The doctor will shine a bright light in front of your eyes to see how they respond.


Question: Will a doctor use an MRI to determine if I have optic neuritis?

Answer: She may inject dye into a vein in your arm. It will make your optic nerve and brain easier to see.


Question: Can heat make optic neuritis flare up if I have multiple sclerosis?

Answer: If you have MS, heat can make optic neuritis symptoms flare up again, too -- usually after a hot shower, exercise, fever, or a bout of the flu. Once you cool off, the problems usually go away.


Question: What is the outlook if you have optic neuritis?

Answer: Once your vision is back to normal, you can get optic neuritis again, especially if you have MS. If your symptoms return, be sure to tell your doctor. Report any new symptoms or those that get worse, too.


Question: How long does it take to recover from optic neuritis?

Answer: Some people get better in a few weeks, even without treatment. For others, it can take up to a year. And a few people never fully regain their sight. Even when other symptoms clear up, they may still have trouble with night vision or seeing colors.


Question: Do people recover from optic neuritis?

Answer: Some people get better in a few weeks, even without treatment. For others, it can take up to a year. And a few people never fully regain their sight. Even when other symptoms clear up, they may still have trouble with night vision or seeing colors.


Question: What can trigger optic neuritis?

Answer: If you have MS, heat can make optic neuritis symptoms flare up again, too -- usually after a hot shower, exercise, fever, or a bout of the flu. Once you cool off, the problems usually go away.


Question: What is the treatment for optic neuritis?

Answer: The condition often goes away on its own. To help you heal faster, your doctor will probably give you high-dose steroid drugs through an IV. This treatment may also lower your risk of other MS problems or delay its start if it's the cause.


Question: How can you be affected by optic neuritis?

Answer: You may notice some of these symptoms: Pain when you move your eyes Blurred vision Loss of color vision Trouble seeing to the side A hole in the center of your vision Blindness in rare cases Headache -- a dull ache behind your eyes Adults usually get optic neuritis in only one eye, but children may have it in both.


Question: Do adults get optic neuritis in both eyes?

Answer: You may notice some of these symptoms: Pain when you move your eyes Blurred vision Loss of color vision Trouble seeing to the side A hole in the center of your vision Blindness in rare cases Headache -- a dull ache behind your eyes Adults usually get optic neuritis in only one eye, but children may have it in both.


Question: What is optic neuritis and is it related to multiple sclerosis?

Answer: It can happen all of a sudden. Your vision gets dim or blurry. You can't see colors. Your eyes hurt when you move them. It's a common problem for people living with multiple sclerosis ( MS). The symptoms can seem scary, but most people recover fully, often without treatment.


Question: How is optic neuritis treated?

Answer: The condition often goes away on its own. To help you heal faster, your doctor will probably give you high-dose steroid drugs through an IV. This treatment may also lower your risk of other MS problems or delay its start if it's the cause.


Question: How much calcium do you need to get every day?

Answer: Here's how much calcium and vitamin D you need every day, according to the Institute of Medicine. Calcium Children 1-3 years old: 700 milligrams (mg) Children 4-8 years old: 1,000 mg Children 9-18 years old: 1,300 mg Adults 19-50: 1,000 mg Women 51 to 70: 1,200 mg Men 51 to 70: 1,000 mg Women and men 71 and over: 1,200 mg Vitamin D Age 1-70: 600 IU Age 71 and older: 800 IU Your doctor may recommend higher levels of calcium and vitamin D, especially if you aren't getting enough of them or are at risk for osteoporosis.


Question: What foods provide vitamin D?

Answer: Other foods that are high in calcium include: Spinach Kale Okra Collards Soybeans White beans Some fish, like sardines, salmon, perch, and rainbow trout Foods that are calcium-fortified, such as some orange juice, oatmeal, and breakfast cereal Foods that provide vitamin D include: Fatty fish, like tuna, mackerel, and salmon Foods fortified with vitamin D, like some dairy products, orange juice, soy milk, and cereals Beef liver Cheese Egg yolks To get vitamin D from food, fish is a good option. Three ounces of cooked salmon has more than 450 international units ( IU).


Question: How might lupus lead to mood swings and personality changes?

Answer: People with lupus may experience unpredictable changes in moods and personality traits. This can include feeling of anger and irritability.


Question: What does the calories count on a food label mean?

Answer: ( Remember, you'll need to adjust this if your portion is different from the serving size on the label.) This part of the label also tells you how much of that energy comes from the fat in a serving.


Question: Is the information on the food label still accurate if my daily calorie intake isn't 2000?

Answer: If your daily calorie intake isn't 2,000, you may need to do a little math. Some nutrient goals change with the number of daily calories. Some, including sodium and calcium, are based on things like your age, sex, or health, not the number of calories you eat. Talk to your doctor or your diabetes educator about how to adjust the % Daily Values on labels for your diet. In general, when it comes to fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium, choose foods with a low % Daily Value. For total carbohydrates, dietary fiber, and vitamins and minerals, try to reach your daily target for each nutrient.


Question: What does a "% Daily Value" on a food label mean for people with diabetes?

Answer: "% Daily Value" shows how much a serving of that food gives you for each key nutrient listed. These daily goals are set by the government, based on current nutrition recommendations. The percentages are based on a 2,000 calorie/day diet, which would be right for an average- or large-size man who gets little exercise. Women or seniors with diabetes, or people trying to lose weight, need fewer calories.


Question: What are some tips to help a teenager take charge of their feelings about a sick or dying sibling?

Answer: Tips for helping teenage siblings of a sick or dying child: Let friends and boyfriends or girlfriends be involved. Palliative care teams encourage friends to visit and extend their support services to them. Don't be hurt when teenagers seek the support of their friends more than their parents. As teenagers' grief is more like that of adults, teenagers who lose a sibling may need more time off of school and regular activities.


Question: What are tips to help a 10- to 12-year-old sibling cope with their feelings about a sick or dying child?

Answer: Tips for helping 10- to 12-year-old siblings of a sick or dying child: Find opportunities for constructive venting of feelings, such as sibling groups at hospitals and art or play therapies. Provide as much specific, factual information as possible. Keep siblings in regular routines as much as possible. It may not seem like long, but professionals advise that children under age 12 not miss more than a week of school after a sibling has died. But they acknowledge that each child has unique needs.


Question: How should I talk to my child about death?

Answer: Experts advise parents to be honest and concrete in discussions about death. Avoid euphemisms. Adults use euphemisms to avoid uncomfortable subjects, but children, who think literally throughout a great deal of childhood, may not pick up on these cues. If a parent tells a child whose sibling has died that the sibling is sleeping, the child may expect the sibling to wake up. If the parent says the sibling will not wake up, the child may fear going to sleep and not waking up.


Question: What should I expect if I talk to my children about life-threatening conditions?

Answer: When a family member has a life-threatening condition, frequently children will ask questions. The older they get, the more specific their questions will be. As teenagers, they may even be the ones guiding the conversation. Although the answers to their questions may bring bad news, children do not process bad news in the same way that adults do. Parents may be hurt by this. Adults understand the permanence of death immediately, so we respond with tears. Children, especially those under age 12, may not understand the permanence of death right away, so they may not have a strong initial reaction to bad news.


Question: What might happen if parents avoid a child's questions about death if the child has a life-threatening illness?

Answer: If parents avoid children's questions, the children may ask someone else or hold the questions in, which could result in unnecessary anxiety. Acknowledging rather than disregarding questions can build trust and show children that their concerns are important.


Question: How do 6- to 9-year-olds understand death and dying?

Answer: 6- to 9-year-olds have a more evolved sense of dying: They associate death with old age. They may not understand that they or a sibling could die. They know more about how the body works, so they may have specific questions about how someone dies. A sibling may think that a bruise on his own body indicates the same illness a brother or sister had. They may associate death with frightening images from cartoons, such as ghosts and spirits.


Question: How well can infant and toddler siblings of a sick or dying child understand what is happening?

Answer: Each year of a child's life brings enhanced ability to understand the reality and permanence of death. Infant and toddler siblings of a sick or dying child can feel loss through: Absence of a parent or of a sibling due to the treatment or death of the sibling Interruption to routine caused by the treatment or death of a sibling Grief and stress of their parents or other family members These tips may help manage the feelings infant or toddler siblings of a sick or dying child may have: Make time each day to hold, rock, and cuddle the sibling.


Question: What can parents say if they don't want to use the words "die, dead", and "dying" with their sick child?

Answer: If parents cannot say these words, the palliative care team can help explain as much as the parents want their children to know.


Question: What are tips to help a 6- to 9-year-old sibling cope with their feelings about a sick or dying child?

Answer: Tips for helping 6- to 9-year-old siblings understand their feelings about a sick or dying child: Use visual aids they can understand. Child life specialists have used marshmallows to explain tumor growth or described leukemia as a thickening of the blood. Make specific references to organs like heart and lungs. Make clear that death is not like the images in cartoons. Make clear to siblings that what happened to a brother or sister doesn't happen to everyone.


Question: How might siblings of a child with a life-threatening condition react?

Answer: When a child is dying, many parents want the siblings to be at the child's bedside with the rest of the family. Child life specialists will help facilitate this, but they advise parents that siblings may want to leave the room quickly and return to what they were doing before. Parents should understand that this behavior is normal.


Question: How do teenagers understand death?

Answer: Teenagers understand death with a more personal and long-term view: They may want to talk to their friends more than to their parents. They understand more on their own, so adults are validating information rather than giving it. They understand their lives in the context of others', so they will want to leave a legacy and plan for their own deaths.


Question: Are there resources to start the conversation with a child about their life-threatening condition?

Answer: Social workers and child life specialists recommend a number of resources -- such as story and activity books -- that may help break the ice and help explain difficult concepts. Professionals also encourage parents to use children's questions as opportunities to start a conversation.


Question: What are some tips to soothe and care for an infant or toddler if their sibling is sick or dying?

Answer: Infant and toddler siblings of a sick or dying child can feel loss through: Absence of a parent or of a sibling due to the treatment or death of the sibling Interruption to routine caused by the treatment or death of a sibling Grief and stress of their parents or other family members These tips may help manage the feelings infant or toddler siblings of a sick or dying child may have: Make time each day to hold, rock, and cuddle the sibling. Keep the child on a schedule as much as possible. Play a recording of parents reading a story or talking to the sibling in the parent's absence.


Question: If your child has a life-threatening condition and you're not sure how to talk to them about it, is there a medical professional who can help you?

Answer: If parents cannot say these words, the palliative care team can help explain as much as the parents want their children to know.


Question: How might children react sometimes to heavy conversations about their life-threatening condition?

Answer: Children can feel insecure during heavy or serious conversation. They may want to get back to normal as soon as possible. This may mean returning quickly to the game they were playing or the TV show they were watching. This doesn't mean the child didn't hear or understand. Parents can join the child in the activity in order to be there when questions arise.


Question: How do 3- to 5-year olds understand a sick or dying sibling?

Answer: They may believe death is temporary or reversible. They are ego-centric and may believe the death of a sibling is punishment for something they did.


Question: How do 10- to 12-year-olds understand death?

Answer: 10- to 12-year-olds understand the permanence of death: They know that death is final and will happen to everyone including themselves. They understand that their own death or the death of a sibling will cause sadness in others. A sick child at this age may say he has to hold on for his parents' sake. They will respond more like adults with anger, sadness, and fear. They will have increasingly more specific questions about the illness and about death.


Question: Should you talk with your child about death if they have a life-threatening condition or a terminal illness?

Answer: If parents choose to talk to their children about their sick child's prognosis, the palliative care team can be there to help.


Question: What are tips to help a 3- to 5-year-old sibling cope with their feelings about a sick or dying child?

Answer: Tips for helping 3- to 5-year-old siblings cope with their feelings about a sick or dying child: Use concrete language, such as "die," not euphemisms such as "sleep." At this age a child can understand " Your brother's body stopped working"; " Your sister stopped breathing." Make it clear to siblings that the death is not a consequence of something they did.


Question: What are symptoms of cauda equina syndrome?

Answer: They also mimic other conditions. If you have any of these symptoms, see your doctor right away: Severe low back pain Pain, numbness, or weakness in one or both legs that causes you to stumble or have trouble getting up from a chair Loss of or altered sensations in your legs, buttocks, inner thighs, backs of your legs, or feet that is severe or gets worse and worse; you may experience this as trouble feeling anything in the areas of your body that would sit in a saddle (called saddle anesthesia) Recent problem with bladder or bowel function, such as trouble eliminating urine or waste (retention) or trouble holding it (incontinence) Sexual dysfunction that has come on suddenly A doctor can diagnose cauda equina syndrome.


Question: How do you diagnose cauda equina syndrome?

Answer: Here's what you may need to confirm a diagnosis: A medical history, in which you answer questions about your health, symptoms, and activity A physical exam to assess your strength, reflexes, sensation, stability, alignment, and motion. You may also need blood tests Magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) scan, which uses magnetic fields and computers to produce three-dimensional images of your spine A myelogram -- an X-ray of the spinal canal after injection of contrast material -- which can pinpoint pressure on the spinal cord or nerves A computed tomography ( CT) scan If you have cauda equina syndrome, you'll need prompt treatment to relieve pressure on nerves.


Question: What causes of cauda equina syndrome?

Answer: CES occurs more often in adults than in children. But it can occur in children who have a spinal birth defect or have had a spinal injury. These are the most common causes of cauda equina syndrome: A severe ruptured disk in the lumbar area (the most common cause) Narrowing of the spinal canal (stenosis) A spinal lesion or malignant tumor A spinal infection, inflammation, hemorrhage, or fracture A complication from a severe lumbar spine injury such as a car crash, fall, gunshot, or stabbing A birth defect such as an abnormal connection between blood vessels (arteriovenous malformation) It may be hard to diagnose cauda equina syndrome.


Question: What is anger?

Answer: Anger is a very powerful emotion that can stem from feelings of frustration, hurt, annoyance, or disappointment. It is a normal human emotion that can range from slight irritation to strong rage.


Question: What can happen if anger is supressed?

Answer: Suppressed anger can be an underlying cause of anxiety and depression. Anger that is not appropriately expressed can disrupt relationships, affect thinking and behavior patterns, and create a variety of physical problems. Chronic (long-term) anger has been linked to health issues such as high blood pressure, heart problems, headaches, skin disorders, and digestive problems. In addition, anger can be linked to problems such as crime, emotional and physical abuse, and other violent behavior.


Question: How can bone-forming medications help treat osteoporosis?

Answer: Bone-forming medications are designed to do just what they say. Instead of just slowing or stopping the process of bone breakdown, they work to build more of it. Abaloparatide ( Tymlos) and teriparatide ( Forteo) is the only medicines of this type approved by the FDA. In women, they help reduce fractures of the spine and in the hands and feet. They're also approved for men with low testosterone levels and men with osteoporosis caused by steroids. With either drug, you have to inject it daily, and the treatment is expensive.


Question: How can estrogen therapy help in treating osteoporosis?

Answer: This type of osteoporosis treatment works well in decreasing bone loss and reducing hip and spine fractures, but it comes with a number of very serious drawbacks. While it replaces the estrogen levels that drop drastically during menopause, it may also raise your chances for blood clots, heart attack, breast cancer, and stroke. The FDA recommends that you try other osteoporosis drugs first.


Question: How can surgery help with treating colorectal cancer?

Answer: This is the way doctors treat most colorectal cancers. The best chance for a cure is to remove the tumor entirely. Usually, surgeons need to remove only the part of your colon or rectum that has the tumor. Your surgeon may do the operation with a few small cuts in your belly (called laparoscopy) instead of one long cut. You may have less pain and heal faster with this approach.


Question: How can chemotherapy help with treating colorectal cancer?

Answer: Chemo drugs destroy cancer cells or stop them from spreading throughout your body. You can take the medicines in pill form or through an IV. You can also get them in a blood vessel close to your tumor. There are many types of these drugs. Some work better together, so you may take two or more at the same time. You usually get the treatment for 2 or 4 weeks, then take a break. You might have chemo after surgery to kill any cancer cells left behind. Or you could have it before an operation to make a tumor smaller and easier to remove. Chemo may help treat cancer pain, too. And it's often the best way to slow the spread of the disease to other parts of your body, such as your liver.


Question: How can targeted treatments help with treating colorectal cancer?

Answer: These drugs treat changes in cells that lead to cancer. For instance, some cells have too much of a protein that helps them grow and thrive. Targeted drugs can stop it from working. Because these treatments only fight cancer cells, not healthy ones, they may give you fewer side effects than chemotherapy.


Question: What are the most common symptoms of cystic fibrosis?

Answer: The most common symptoms of cystic fibrosis are: Salty-tasting skin, which parents notice when they kiss their child Frequent coughing, wheezing, or bouts of pneumonia or sinusitis Difficulty breathing that keeps getting worse Big appetite but poor weight gain Bulky, smelly, greasy bowel movements Over time, the symptoms of cystic fibrosis can worsen and may include: Chronic productive cough, recurrent lung infections Obstructive lung disease (emphysema) Chronic nasal congestion and sinus infections Pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas Liver disease Diabetes Gallstones You are pregnant or planning to become pregnant and either you or the other parent has a family history of cystic fibrosis Your child tastes very salty when you kiss him or her Your child has had frequent lung or sinus infections and has problems gaining or maintaining weight


Question: How can you reward yourself for quitting smoking?

Answer: Small rewards might include: A new magazine A dozen golf balls New earrings New lipstick or nail polish Bigger rewards: A nice dinner out Tickets to a sports event or concert An evening at the movies or theater A massage or facial A weekend away When You're Stressed Many people smoke when they feel anxious, stressed, or depressed.


Question: What should you do when you're stressed to avoid smoking?

Answer: A smoker will think, â I need a cigarette!â But you're not a smoker anymore. So instead of grabbing a cigarette, argue with yourself. Be your own devil's advocate and talk back to your irrational thoughts. Keep it up until you no longer feel like you need to smoke. Bit by bit, you'll put it in the past.


Question: How quickly do withdrawal symptoms occur after you stop smoking and how bad are they?

Answer: The symptoms of nicotine withdrawal include: Anxiety Irritability Headache Trouble sleeping Fatigue Hunger They kick in fast. Research shows that the average smoker starts to feel the symptoms of withdrawal within an hour of putting out his last cigarette. Feelings of anxiety, sadness, and trouble concentrating can appear within the first 3 hours. It's intense but short, though it might not feel that way at the time.


Question: How can I keep mold from growing inside my home?

Answer: To keep mold allergies away when you're inside your home: Take off your shoes at the door. Clean your bathroom often with bleach and get rid of soap scum, which can harbor mold. When you shower, open a window or run an exhaust fan. Fix any leaks right away. Dry wet areas within 48 hours to prevent the fungus from growing. Run a dehumidifier in damp basements or other rooms. Use a vacuum with a HEPA filter.


Question: How do molds causes allergies?

Answer: How It Causes Allergies Mold is a fungus with a big job in the natural world: It breaks down dead plant matter. It spreads through tiny spores that can cause an allergic reaction, but only a few types bring on allergies.


Question: When do mold allergies usually occur?

Answer: When Mold Allergies Occur Although they happen any time of year, allergies to outdoor mold can be worse in summer and fall. They can be especially bad when wet leaves sit around in piles.


Question: How do I treat symptoms of mold allergy?

Answer: To Treat Symptoms Try over-the-counter antihistamines, eye drops, or nasal sprays. Talk to your doctor about prescription drugs.


Question: How do I know if I'm allergic to molds?

Answer: How to Tell if You're Allergic The only way you can know for sure is to see an allergist. He'll ask about your symptoms and what seems to trigger them. If he thinks you have a mold allergy, he'll probably do tests to confirm it.


Question: Why do doctors think Botox works for migraine headaches?

Answer: Doctors think Botox works for migraine headaches because it blocks chemicals called neurotransmitters that carry pain signals from your brain. Botox is like a roadblock in that pathway. It stops the chemicals before they get to the nerve endings around your head and neck.


Question: How often should I get Botox for my migraines?

Answer: It stops the chemicals before they get to the nerve endings around your head and neck.


Question: How was Botox first used to prevent headaches?

Answer: When people who had migraine headaches used Botox to treat their wrinkles, they told their doctors that their headaches were better. So doctors began to study it as a migraine pain treatment.


Question: When will Botox not work to prevent my migraines?

Answer: That means you have both: A history of migraine headaches Headaches (including tension-type) on most days (15 or more) of the month of which 8 are migraine It won't work for you if you: Get headaches 14 or fewer days each month Have other types of headaches, like cluster Botox is a neurotoxin, a poison made by bacteria called Clostridium botulinums.


Question: What are the symptoms of heart murmurs?

Answer: Many people with heart murmurs experience no symptoms. However, some murmurs can occur in conjunction with these other symptoms: Chest pain Rapid heartbeat (palpitations) Breathlessness Fatigue Bluish skin color or fingertips (sometimes seen in babies with congenital heart defects)


Question: What can cause heart murmurs?

Answer: For instance, heart murmurs may be caused by blood flowing through a heart valve made leaky or narrow by disease. Murmurs can also be caused by increased blood flow across a valve as a result of medical conditions such as anemia or hyperthyroidism. Congenital heart defects (heart problems present at birth) can also cause heart murmurs. These sometimes can be repaired with surgery.


Question: How are heart murmurs found?

Answer: Heart murmurs can be heard through a stethoscope and often are detected during routine physical exams. On further examination, your doctor may find that the heart murmur is innocent. If your heart murmur is related to more serious heart problems, your doctor may refer you to a cardiologist (heart specialist).


Question: What are your treatment options for a meniscus tear?

Answer: Treatment for a meniscus tear will depend on its size, what kind it is, and where it's located within the cartilage. Most likely, your doctor will recommend that you rest, use pain relievers, and apply ice to you knee to keep the swelling down. He may also suggest physical therapy. This will help to strengthen the muscles around your knee and keep it stable. If these treatments don't work -- or if your injury is severe -- he might recommend surgery. To be sure, your doctor will probably have an MRI done. And he might look at the tear with an arthroscope. That's a thin tool that has a camera and light at the end. It allows doctors to see inside your joints.


Question: What is recovery like after surgery for meniscus tear?

Answer: You may have to wear a brace or cast to keep your knee stable. You'll likely also have to use crutches for at least a month to keep weight off your knee. Your doctor may recommend physical therapy as part of your recovery. It'll help increase your range of motion and help your knee get stronger. He may also share some exercises you can do at home. If you have a partial or total meniscectomy, you can expect your recovery to take about a month. If your meniscus was repaired, it may take as long as 3 months.


Question: What's the treatment for hypertensive emergency and associated organ damage?

Answer: Certain tests will be performed to monitor blood pressure and assess organ damage, including: Regular monitoring of blood pressure Eye exam to look for swelling and bleeding Blood and urine testing In a hypertensive emergency, the first goal is to bring down the blood pressure as quickly as possible with intravenous ( IV) blood pressure medications to prevent further organ damage. Whatever organ damage has occurred is treated with therapies specific to the organ that is damaged.


Question: What is hypertensive emergency?

Answer: Hypertensive emergency means blood pressure is so high that organ damage can occur. Blood pressure must be reduced immediately to prevent imminent organ damage. This is done in an intensive care unit of a hospital.


Question: What are symptoms of hypertensive emergency?

Answer: Symptoms of a hypertensive emergency include: Headache or blurred vision Increasing confusion Seizure Increasing chest pain Increasing shortness of breath Swelling or edema (fluid buildup in the tissues) To diagnose a hypertensive emergency, your health care providers will ask you several questions to get a better understanding of your medical history.


Question: What is hypertensive urgency?

Answer: Hypertensive urgency occurs when blood pressure spikes -- blood pressure readings are 180/110 or higher -- but there is no damage to the body's organs. Blood pressure can be brought down safely within a few hours with blood pressure medication.


Question: How is hypertensive emergency diagnosed?

Answer: Symptoms of a hypertensive emergency include: Headache or blurred vision Increasing confusion Seizure Increasing chest pain Increasing shortness of breath Swelling or edema (fluid buildup in the tissues) To diagnose a hypertensive emergency, your health care providers will ask you several questions to get a better understanding of your medical history. They will also need to know all medications you are taking, including nonprescription and recreational drugs. Also, be sure to tell them if you are taking any herbal or dietary supplements. Certain tests will be performed to monitor blood pressure and assess organ damage, including: Regular monitoring of blood pressure Eye exam to look for swelling and bleeding Blood and urine testing In a hypertensive emergency, the first goal is to bring down the blood pressure as quickly as possible with intravenous ( IV) blood pressure medications to prevent further organ damage.


Question: How can I help a loved one who is addicted to prescription drugs?

Answer: Doctors can refer you to drug treatment programs for the family member or friend. Many of these programs use outpatient treatment with medications and behavioral therapy. Most importantly, talk to the person about your concerns so he knows that you are aware of the problem. Be prepared for a lot of resistance and denial. Many people with addiction must go through serious consequences before they accept their illness. Then, stand beside the person as he works to move beyond the addiction.


Question: What is a drug addiction?

Answer: Addiction is a chronic brain disease that often happens again. It causes compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful effects on the addicted person and the people around that person. The abuse of drugs -- even prescription drugs -- leads to changes in how the brain looks and works. For most people, the first decision to take prescription drugs is voluntary. But over time, changes in the brain caused by repeated drug abuse affect a person's self-control and ability to make sound decisions. While this is going on, the person continues to have intense impulses to take more drugs.


Question: How can buprenorphine help with treating prescription drug abuse?

Answer: Buprenorphine is a drug used to treat opiate withdrawal, and it is often combined with the drug naloxone (a combination that can be called Suboxone, Bunavail, or Zubsolv) to prevent relapse. A form of buprenorphine (called Probuphine) can be implanted under the skin. It treats opiate dependence in people who have been taking a stable dose of oral buprenorphine and are no longer ridding their bodies of the drug they're being treated for. It provides a constant dose of buprenorphine for 6 months.


Question: Are there side effects and complications with dermabrasion and microdermabrasion?

Answer: Dermabrasion side effects include: Uneven changes in skin color (temporary or permanent) Formation of a scar Swelling Infection Darkening of the skin (usually temporary but may be permanent); this is caused by sun exposure in the days and months following the procedure.


Question: How does dermabrasion work?

Answer: Dermabrasion is done in the doctor's office. You may get medication to relax you before the procedure starts. Your skin will be thoroughly cleansed, and you'll get shots of numbing medicine to anesthetize the area to be treated. The doctor will use a high-speed instrument with an abrasive wheel or brush to remove the outer layers of your skin and improve any irregularities in your skin's surface.


Question: Do rheumatologists help in treating rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: These doctors treat arthritis and other problems of the joints, bones, and muscles. If you don't have one, ask your regular doctor for a referral. You can also look on your insurance plan's list of providers. Or check the website of the American College of Rheumatology (click on â Find a Rheumatologist").


Question: What will my rheumatologist do to help treat my rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Your rheumatologist will: Do joint exams to look for swelling and changes in strength or how well the joint moves Give you X-rays and blood tests Give you a questionnaire at least twice a year about what you can do At least once a year, you should talk with your doctor about the "big picture" of your treatment plan.


Question: What tests can help diagnose lymphoma?

Answer: For this test, your doctor will remove all or part of a lymph node, or use a needle to take a small amount of tissue from the affected node. You might also have one of these tests to help diagnose, stage, or manage lymphoma: Bone marrow aspiration or biopsy.


Question: How is lymphoma different from leukemia?

Answer: Lymphoma is different from leukemia. Each of these cancers starts in a different type of cell. Lymphoma starts in infection-fighting lymphocytes. Leukemia starts in blood-forming cells inside bone marrow.


Question: What are the two main types of lymphoma?

Answer: Hodgkin Non- Hodgkin and Hodgkin lymphoma involve different types of lymphocyte cells.


Question: What are the two types of stem cell transplants for lymphoma?

Answer: Two types of stem cell transplants can be done: An autologous transplant uses your own stem cells. An allogeneic transplant uses stem cells taken from a donor.


Question: How are tooth sealants applied?

Answer: The application steps are as follows: First, the teeth that are to be sealed are thoroughly cleaned. Each tooth is then dried and cotton or another absorbent material is put around the tooth to keep it dry. Sometimes, an etching solution is put on the chewing surfaces of the teeth to roughen them up, which helps the sealant bond to the teeth. Other sealants do not require this step. The teeth are then rinsed and dried. Sealant is then painted onto the tooth enamel, where it bonds directly to the tooth and hardens. Sometimes, a special curing light is used to help the sealant harden.


Question: Why do I need tooth sealants?

Answer: Although thorough brushing and flossing can remove food particles and plaque from smooth surfaces of teeth, they cannot always get into all the nooks and crannies of the back teeth to remove the food and plaque. Sealants protect these vulnerable areas from tooth decay by "sealing out" plaque and food.


Question: What is septoplasty?

Answer: Doctors call surgery to straighten the septum âseptoplasty.â It's usually done by an ear, nose, and throat specialist. Some people also get plastic surgery on their nose, to change its shape, at the same time. Your surgeon won't have to cut the skin on your face, where someone might see it. He can use instruments that he puts into the nostrils.


Question: What can happen when a nerve is damaged?

Answer: It may become quiet and send no information, which causes numbness. Or it may send excessive and inappropriate pain messages.


Question: What if medicine doesn't help your nerve pain?

Answer: If your nerve pain isn't responding to medications and self-care, it may be time to talk to a neuropathic pain specialist. Your primary care doctor will provide a referral, most likely to a neurologist.


Question: What causes nerve pain?

Answer: Nerve pain is caused by damage to the nerve. More than 50 medical conditions, drugs, and toxins are known to cause nerve damage, including: Diabetes Human immunodeficiency virus ( HIV) infection Celiac disease Trauma Amyloidosis Fabry's disease Medications, including B6 (pyridoxine), isoniazid, HIV drugs, or chemotherapy Toxins, such as heavy alcohol use Autoimmune conditions, such as lupus and vasculitis Vitamin B12 deficiency Some cancers, such as lymphoma or myeloma Lyme disease Once a nerve is damaged, it is more likely to start behaving abnormally.


Question: What is the aura stage of a seizure?

Answer: This phase happens right before a seizure starts and is a warning that it is about to happen. The symptoms come on quickly and may only last a few seconds. If you have an aura, you may have: Deja vu (a sense that something has happened before when it hasn't) Jamais vu (a feeling that you're seeing something you know well for the first time) Vision problems Odd smells, sounds, or tastes Dizziness Numbness or âpins and needlesâ in parts of your body Headache Nausea Panic Feelings of intense fear If you have an aura, you should try to get to a safe place before the seizure happens.


Question: What things can let you know a seizure is about to happen?

Answer: Common prodrome symptoms include: Changes in mood Trouble sleeping Anxiety Problems staying focused Feeling lightheaded People who have tonic-clonic (once called grand mal) seizures seem more likely to have prodrome signs.


Question: What are common signs of middle (ictal) seizure stage?

Answer: But you may have physical signs which others can see, Some common signs of this stage are: Loss of awareness (blacking out) Feeling confused Memory lapse Trouble hearing Odd smells or tastes Hallucinations (seeing things that aren't really there) Seeing flashing lights Trouble speaking Drooling Loss of muscle control Twitching Repeated movements like lip smacking or chewing Body convulsions Trouble breathing Racing heart During this final stage, your brain trying to get back to normal following the seizure.


Question: What are other ways to pay for weight loss surgery?

Answer: If you do not have health insurance, or if your insurer will not cover weight loss surgery, talk to your doctor and your surgeon about financing plans. Check on the interest rate, and make sure you are OK with all of the terms.


Question: How do you treat a sore throat with a cold?

Answer: In addition to a sore throat, other common cold symptoms include: Runny nose Sneezing Cough Mild headache Mild body aches Fever Although there is no cure for a sore throat caused by a cold virus, there are ways to help you feel more comfortable. Drinking warm liquids, gargling with warm salt water, sucking on ice chips, or taking an over-the-counter medicine may relieve symptoms of pain or fever.


Question: How is a sore throat from tonsillitis treated?

Answer: Other symptoms with tonsillitis include the following: Bad breath Fever Voice changes because of swelling Painful swallowing Swollen lymph glands in neck If the tonsillitis infection is bacterial like strep throat, then antibiotics are given. If the tonsillitis infection is viral, antibiotics will not help. The virus must run its course for the sore throat to resolve. For either type of throat infection, the following treatment measures may help: Getting plenty of rest Drinking lots of fluid Eating smooth, soothing foods like gelatin, ice cream, shakes, frozen desserts, and soup Avoiding crunchy or spicy foods Using a vaporizer Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, naproxen, or ibuprofen. Children should not take aspirin. If the tonsillitis infections occur repeatedly, or if the tonsils are interfering with sleep and breathing, the doctor may recommend a tonsillectomy, which is the surgical removal of the tonsils.


Question: How is strep throat different from a sore throat with a cold?

Answer: Strep throat is caused by an infection of streptococcus bacteria. Strep throat spreads by having contact with an infected person's saliva or nasal secretions. Although strep throat is more common in children ages 5 to 15, it also occurs in adults. To diagnose strep throat, your doctor can check a rapid strep test or send a throat swab to the lab for a culture. In some cases, he or she may be able to diagnose strep based on your reported symptoms and other signs, such as white spots in the throat area, fever, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck.