Question: How do symptoms of a cold progress?

Answer: If cold symptoms begin quickly and are improving after a week, then it is usually a cold, not allergy. Flu symptoms often mimic cold symptoms with nasal congestion, cough, aches, and malaise. But a common cold rarely has symptoms of fever above 101 degrees. Body and muscle aches are also more common with the flu.


Question: What should I do if my cold isn't going away?

Answer: If cold symptoms do not seem to be improving after a week, you may have a bacterial infection, which means you may need antibiotics. If your cold symptoms do not seem to be getting better after a week, check with your doctor to see if you have developed an allergy or sinusitis.


Question: How does the flu spread?

Answer: Several hundred different viruses may cause your cold symptoms. In addition to hand washing to prevent flu or cold symptoms, you can also get a flu vaccine to prevent seasonal influenza.


Question: How long do flu symptoms last?

Answer: While cold symptoms can make you feel bad for a few days, flu symptoms can make you feel quite ill for a few days to weeks. The flu can also result in serious health problems such as pneumonia and hospitalizations. If you notice shortness of breath, let your doctor know. Another common sign of pneumonia is fever that comes back after having been gone for a day or two.


Question: How can pinched (compressed) nerves affect me?

Answer: In some cases, you can't reverse the damage from a pinched nerve. The pressure may be the result of repetitive motions. Nerve compression often occurs when the nerve is pressed between tissues such as: Ligament Tendon Bone For example, inflammation or pressure on a nerve root exiting the spine may cause neck or low back pain. It may also cause pain to radiate from the neck into the shoulder and arm (cervical radiculopathy). For example, if a disc weakens or tears -- known as a herniated disc -- pressure can get put on a spinal nerve.


Question: What do you need to know about pinched (compressed) nerves?

Answer: If you have a pinched nerve (nerve compression) your body may send you warning signals such as pain. Don't ignore these warning signals. It may cause temporary or long-lasting problems. The earlier you get a diagnosis and treatment for nerve compression, the more quickly you'll find relief. In some cases, you can't reverse the damage from a pinched nerve.


Question: What eating habits can I avoid to prevent low blood sugar?

Answer: You can get low blood sugar if you take too much insulin for the amount of carbohydrates you eat or drink. For instance, it can happen: After you eat a meal that has a lot of simple sugars If you miss a snack or don't eat a full meal If you eat later than usual If you drink alcohol without eating any food Don't skip meals if you have diabetes, particularly if you're taking diabetes medications. Change your diet. Avoid sugary foods, and eat frequent small meals during the day. If you get low blood sugar when you haven't eaten, have a snack before bedtime, such as a protein or a more complex carbohydrate.


Question: What should I do if I have diabetes and I get hypoglycemia?

Answer: If you're driving and you have hypoglycemia symptoms, pull off the road, check your blood sugar, and eat a sugary food. Check your sugars before and after exercise, and discuss with your doctor what types of changes can be made.


Question: How do you get hypoglycemia?

Answer: It can happen for several reasons, including diet, some medications and conditions, and exercise. Most people feel symptoms of hypoglycemia when their blood sugar is 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/d L) or lower.


Question: What causes hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in people with diabetes?

Answer: It can happen for several reasons, including diet, some medications and conditions, and exercise. Most people feel symptoms of hypoglycemia when their blood sugar is 70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/d L) or lower.


Question: What is Lhermitte's sign?

Answer: It's called Lhermitte's sign, or barber chair sign, and it's often one of the symptoms that people mention when they're first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. It can also happen if you move your head the wrong way, often when your chin hits your chest.


Question: How can pregnancy affect your chances of getting deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Answer: This pressure prevents blood from pooling in your veins. Talk to your doctor about what you can do to prevent DVT after surgery.


Question: How is an inferior vena cava (IVC) filter used to treat deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Answer: When a blood clot forms in a vein deep inside your body, it causes what doctors call deep vein thrombosis ( DVT). If your symptoms are severe or your clot is very large, your doctor may give you a strong medicine to dissolve it. Inferior vena cava ( IVC) filter.


Question: Should I stop taking an ACE inhibitor if it doesn't seem to work?

Answer: If you're taking them for heart failure, your symptoms may not improve right away. However, long-term use helps manage chronic heart failure and lessen the chance that your condition will get worse. Babies shouldn't be breastfed if the mother is taking an ACE inhibitor.


Question: What are the symptoms of angular cheilitis?

Answer: One or both corners may be: Bleeding Blistered Cracked Crusty Itchy Painful Red Scaly Swollen Your lips can feel dry and uncomfortable. The warmth and moisture in the corners of your mouth create the perfect conditions for fungus to grow and multiply -- and cause infection.


Question: Who is most at risk for angular cheilitis?

Answer: You also might have a bad taste in your mouth. You wear dentures that don't fit well. You lick your lips a lot. You have a lot of saliva. Your teeth are crooked, or your bite isn't lined up correctly. You have sagging skin around your mouth from weight loss or age. You suck your thumb. You smoke. You don't get enough nutrients, like vitamin B or iron. To be sure of the cause, your doctor might swab the corners of your mouth and your nose and send it to a lab to see what kinds of bacteria or fungi might be there.


Question: How is stomach cancer prevented?

Answer: Though stomach cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the world, the number of cases has dropped over the past several decades. So limit smoked and pickled foods, including salted meats and fish.


Question: What are Kegel training devices that I can use for my urinary incontinence?

Answer: There are dozens of items to help you manage mild, moderate, and even severe symptoms. They're disposable and designed for women and men. Vaginal weights, rods, and cones of various sizes are intended for women. It's hard to tell at a glance which items might help you -- or how some of them work. So do research and talk to your doctor before you buy any of them. Your doctor can help you narrow down the choices.


Question: How do pessaries help in treating urinary incontinence?

Answer: They come in a broad range of sizes, absorbencies, styles, and colors. Your doctor will fit you, but it may take some trial and error to figure out which one works best. The pessary must be removed and cleaned with soap and water periodically. Penile clamps which squeezes the penis to keep the urethra closed for mild to moderate leaks.


Question: What will happen if you have scabies before?

Answer: Scabies is very contagious. If you have crusted scabies, you might not have the itching or rash that scabies is known for. If you've had scabies before, you might develop symptoms after just a few days of being exposed to the mites. But if you've never had it, you may not have any symptoms for up to 6 weeks. Still, you can spread the mites to others -- even if you don't show signs of infection yourself.


Question: How is scabies diagnosed?

Answer: Scabies is very contagious. Your doctor may be able to tell you have the mites by checking the rash or burrows on your body. He might also try to remove one of the mites from its burrow. He'll do this either by scraping your skin or pulling the parasite from its burrow with a thin needle.


Question: How do you get scabies?

Answer: Scabies -- or human itch mites -- are eight-legged critters that burrow into the upper layer of your skin. Scabies is very contagious. It is spread from one infected person to another through direct, prolonged, close physical contact. Nursing homes, extended care facilities, prisons, and childcare centers are frequent sites for scabies outbreaks. Healthy adults most often get these mites through sexual contact with an infected person. You can't get scabies from pets.


Question: When does crusted scabies happen?

Answer: Scabies -- or human itch mites -- are eight-legged critters that burrow into the upper layer of your skin. Once the eggs hatch, the mites climb to the surface of your skin, where they spread to other parts of your body. A severe form of scabies called âcrusted scabiesâ (or Norwegian crusted scabies) sometimes happens in people who have weakened immune systems. It gets its name from the thick crusts of skin that form from large numbers of scabies mites and eggs.


Question: What does your neck do for you?

Answer: Your neck is the part of your spine that connects your head to the rest of your body. It needs to be flexible enough to move, but also strong enough to support the weight of your head. Pick up a 10-pound bowling ball and you can feel how heavy a load your neck has to carry.


Question: How do doctors reduce swelling of neck injuries?

Answer: If pain relievers don't do the trick, talk to your doctor. They will want to check you over. Another way to reduce swelling is to put an ice pack on the painful area of your neck for about 15 to 20 minutes at a time, several times a day during the first couple of days after the neck injury. Place a towel or cloth between the ice pack and your skin. After a few days you can switch to a heating pad if it feels good on your neck.


Question: How can you help someone with Alzheimer's when you're far away?

Answer: Set up online payments to take care of your loved one's bills. Make sure a living will, health-care proxy, and power of attorney are in place. Keep on top of Medicaid, Medicare, or private insurance claims. Try to schedule visits every few weeks or months, and be on the lookout for any cognitive changes. Eventually, you may need to hire a full-time in-home aide or consider moving them into assisted living or a nursing home. Ask a neighbor or nearby friend to drop by often and give you an honest report of the quality of the care, too. Have your loved one give you written permission for their doctors to share medical information with you.


Question: What signs can I check to see how much help my loved one with Alzheimerâs needs?

Answer: Are unopened bills piling up? Are they bathing, grooming, and dressing properly? Do they get lost while driving or walking outside of their home? If they're still living at home rather than in assisted care, use one of your visits to check for possible trouble spots in the house. Yes, that business is important, but you being there is also a chance to connect.


Question: How long does it take for prostate cancer to become metastatic?

Answer: If your prostate cancer spreads to other parts of your body, your doctor may tell you that it's "metastatic" or that your cancer has "metastasized." That means the cancer has spread from the prostate to nearby tissue.


Question: What is the treatment for dry eyes if you don't have allergies?

Answer: Tears evaporate too fast. Your doctor may prescribe cyclosporine, which helps fight inflammation. Or she might change one of your prescriptions if your dry eye is a medication side effect. You can also ask your eye doctor if your contact lenses are the problem. You might need to try different lenses, or even stop wearing them completely. It's not likely, but your doctor may recommend a procedure that only takes a minute to plug the holes that allow tears to drain from the eyes to the nose.


Question: What lifestyle changes can help you deal with dry eyes?

Answer: Whether the problem is due to allergies or something else, there are treatments and simple changes in your lifestyle that you can make to feel, and look, better. You can also ask your eye doctor if your contact lenses are the problem. If you only have dry eye every now and then, or your symptoms are mild, you may be able to get some relief from simple remedies and from over-the-counter eye drops (often called âartificial tearsâ). In addition to over-the-counter artificial tears, decongestant eye drops may help. But if you have red eyes, you shouldn't take them for more than a week, as they can make the redness worse.


Question: What can you do to ease your allergy symptoms if you have dry eyes?

Answer: Tears evaporate too fast. Allergies are one possible explanation. If you have allergies and dry eyes, and take antihistamines for the allergies, you may have to stop taking them, since antihistamines can make dry eye worse. Depending on what you're allergic to, you can take a variety of steps to ease your allergy symptoms (including dry eyes): Close windows in your house and car when pollen counts are high, and use air conditioning. Wear sunglasses or glasses when you're outside. This will help keep pollen out of your eyes. Use special mattress covers on your bed to cut down on dust mites. Use a dehumidifier when humidity in your house is high to help cut down on mold. Wash your hands after you pet a dog or cat.


Question: Do problems with tears lead to dry eyes?

Answer: Tears evaporate too fast. If you have dry eye without allergies, there are also treatments.


Question: What are the risks of taking reishi mushroom?

Answer: Reishi mushroom has been used to help enhance the immune system, reduce stress, improve sleep, and lessen fatigue. Taking reishi mushroom may be riskier if you have low blood pressure or are taking therapy to raise your blood pressure, are taking diabetes medications, or have immune system disorders or medications. Higher doses of reishi mushroom might make bleeding more likely in people who have a very low platelet count. Also, avoid using reishi mushroom if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, because there hasn't been enough study on its safety in these circumstances.


Question: How do you take reishi mushroom, and how much?

Answer: Reishi mushrooms are among several medicinal mushrooms that have been used for hundreds of years, mainly in Asian countries, for treatment of infections. Reishi mushroom has been used to help enhance the immune system, reduce stress, improve sleep, and lessen fatigue. Doses may depend upon factors that include: Your age Condition for which the mushroom is being prescribed Form of the mushroom Your overall health But each of these is a typical oral daily dose: 1.5 to 9 grams of crude dried mushroom 1 to 1.5 grams of reishi powder 1 milliliter of reishi solution (tincture) Reishi mushroom is cultivated and sold as a food, but it may be tough and bitter. When taken for health reasons, it is usually dried or taken as an extract, such as in the form of: Liquid Capsule Powder Side effects.


Question: How is surgery used to remove benign lung nodules and tumors?

Answer: The nodule is small. If your nodule is benign, you will not need any further treatment, except to manage any underlying problems or complications related to the nodule such as pneumonia or an obstruction.


Question: What tests will my doctor recommend before invasive surgery to remove benign lung nodules and tumors?

Answer: Your doctor may continue to a check your lung nodule each year for up to five years to ensure that it is benign. These might include blood tests or kidney, liver, or pulmonary (lung) function tests.


Question: How do doctors treat benign lung nodules and tumors?

Answer: In addition to taking a history and doing a physical exam, your doctor may simply "watch" a nodule, taking repeated X-rays, over a period of two years or longer if the nodule is smaller than 6 millimeters and your risk is low. However, your doctor may suggest a biopsy or removal of an entire nodule in situations like these: You are a smoker and the nodule is large. You have symptoms. A scan suggests the nodule might be cancerous. The nodule has grown.


Question: What are the differences between benign nodules and cancerous nodules?

Answer: Or, you may have multiple nodules. This is why they are almost always found accidentally on a chest X-ray or CT scan.


Question: Why is hormone treatment used for prostate cancer?

Answer: Hormone treatment for prostate cancer is used to lower or stop the production of testosterone and all androgens either temporarily or permanently. Hormone treatment may include: The use of various drugs such as anti-androgens that block the activity of male hormones in the body The use of drugs that lower testosterone levels, including luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone ( LHRH) analogs or agonists; newer agents may also block the production of androgens by the adrenal glands.


Question: What is hormone treatment used for prostate cancer?

Answer: Prostate cancer grows when exposed to the male hormone testosterone and its related hormones, called androgens. Hormone treatment for prostate cancer is used to lower or stop the production of testosterone and all androgens either temporarily or permanently. Hormone treatments can be given in many ways, such as by injection or as pills. The use of combined hormone therapy that decreases testosterone production from the testicles, as well as from glands located on the kidneys, called adrenal glands Hormone treatment may also include surgical removal of the testicles (called orchiectomy), where testosterone is produced.


Question: What do hormone treatments for prostate cancer include?

Answer: Hormone treatment may include: The use of various drugs such as anti-androgens that block the activity of male hormones in the body The use of drugs that lower testosterone levels, including luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone ( LHRH) analogs or agonists; newer agents may also block the production of androgens by the adrenal glands. The use of combined hormone therapy that decreases testosterone production from the testicles, as well as from glands located on the kidneys, called adrenal glands Hormone treatment may also include surgical removal of the testicles (called orchiectomy), where testosterone is produced. This prevents male hormones from further stimulating the growth of the prostate cancer. Hormone treatment can be used in men with various degrees of prostate cancer.


Question: When is hormone treatment used for prostate cancer?

Answer: Hormone treatment (also called androgen deprivation therapy or androgen suppression therapy) removes, blocks, or adds hormones to treat prostate cancer. Hormone treatment can be used in men with various degrees of prostate cancer. Factors to consider are quality of life, cost of the treatment, and how effective and safe hormone treatment may be in a particular case.


Question: What is hormone therapy for prostate cancer?

Answer: Hormones are chemical substances produced by glands in the body that enter the bloodstream and affect other tissues. It is also used if cancer remains or recurs after treatment with surgery or radiation therapy.


Question: How is nail fungus treated?

Answer: Oral drugs, such as terbinafine, can cure almost 50% of nail fungus infections. Minor surgery can be performed to remove the part of the nail that is poking into the skin.


Question: What is nail fungus?

Answer: Usually, nail fungus occurs when fungus enters the nail through a small trauma (cut or break) in the nail. Toenail infections are more difficult to treat than fingernail infections because the toenail grows more slowly.


Question: What is the treatment for leukoplakia?

Answer: Treatment for leukoplakia, if needed, involves removing the source of irritation. For example, if leukoplakia is caused by a rough tooth or an irregular surface on a denture or a filling, the tooth will be smoothed and dental appliances repaired. If eliminating the source of irritation is ineffective in reducing leukoplakia, the lesion may need to be surgically removed.


Question: What is cognitive restructuring in cognitive behavioral therapy?

Answer: It can be effective if your depression is mild or moderate. First, CBT makes you aware you have these thoughts. You may wake up in the morning and wonder, â What's the point of trying?â With CBT, you learn to tell yourself, â That's not a helpful thought. Making an effort has lots of rewards. CBT is the best-proven form of talk therapy, also called psychotherapy. If you also get CBT, your treatment might work even better and the benefits might last longer. It's important that you trust your therapist and feel they're on your side.


Question: What is cognitive behavioral therapy?

Answer: It can be effective if your depression is mild or moderate. A therapist helps you identify negative or false thoughts and replace those thoughts with healthier, more realistic ones. The change in your attitude leads to a change in your behavior. You may wake up in the morning and wonder, â What's the point of trying?â With CBT, you learn to tell yourself, â That's not a helpful thought.


Question: What is the idea behind cognitive behavioral therapy?

Answer: A therapist helps you identify negative or false thoughts and replace those thoughts with healthier, more realistic ones. Sessions can be one-on-one, in a group, or with self-help materials under your therapist's guidance.


Question: What does it mean when cognitive behavioral therapy is time-limited?

Answer: It also can help with more severe cases if your therapist is highly skilled. It sometimes works as well as antidepressant drugs for some types of depression. Most people who get CBT for depression or anxiety continue to keep using the skills they learned in therapy a year later.


Question: Is there a standard procedure for cognitive behavioral therapy?

Answer: You may wake up in the morning and wonder, â What's the point of trying?â With CBT, you learn to tell yourself, â That's not a helpful thought. If you quit suddenly, it can cause severe depression and other problems. You can get CBT from a psychologist, licensed counselor, licensed clinical social worker, or other professionals with mental health training. Treatment usually lasts 10-20 sessions. Before your treatment ends, your therapist will show you skills to keep your depression from coming back.


Question: What fats are OK if I have fatty liver disease?

Answer: Certain fats in your diet can help your body use insulin better. That means your cells can take in glucose and your liver doesn't need to make and store fat. Get more of these: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish, fish oil, vegetable oils, nuts (especially walnuts), flaxseeds and flaxseed oil, and leafy veggies Monounsaturated fats in plant sources like olives, nuts, and avocados Steer clear of saturated fats, which lead to more fatty deposits in your liver. This includes: Poultry, except for lean white meat Full-fat cheese Yogurt, except low-fat Red meat Baked goods and fried foods made with palm or coconut oils. You can also get it in some dairy products. It can lead to more serious liver damage.


Question: Can vitamins help with fatty liver disease?

Answer: People with fatty liver disease often have a condition called insulin resistance. Your body makes vitamin D when you're in the sun.


Question: Can I take supplements if I have fatty liver disease?

Answer: They could change how your medicines work, or they might cause other health problems. They may not be helpful if you don't take the right amount in the right way. Ask your doctor first.


Question: What carbs can I eat with fatty liver disease eat?

Answer: Although it wasn't created for people with fatty liver disease, this style of eating combines the kinds of foods that help reduce fat in your liver: healthy fats, antioxidants, and complex carbohydrates. Things you'll see on the table that you should reach for include: Fish and seafood Fruits Whole grains Nuts Olive oil Vegetables Avocados Legumes Your cells use glucose, a kind of sugar, for energy. Choose low-fat dairy items because they have less saturated fat. This can help keep your cholesterol and your triglycerides in check.


Question: What are the most common cause of hair loss?

Answer: In fact, heredity accounts for 95% of all the cases of alopecia (baldness) in this country. The remaining 5% of the cases can be due to a number of things, including diet, stress, illness, and medications. Among the most common side effects are: Swelling Bruising around the eyes Crusting on the "donor" and "recipient" sites of the scalp A lack of feeling or sensation around the "donor" and "recipient" sites of the scalp Itching at the "donor" site Scalp Reduction A scalp reduction is the removal of non-hair-bearing skin from the scalp so that the remaining hair-bearing skin can be stretched to fill in the bald area of the head.


Question: How effective is the birth control sponge?

Answer: It's a form of birth control that some women use. To protect against STDs such as HIV, the male condom provides the best protection.


Question: How are cleft lip and cleft palate diagnosed?

Answer: A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.


Question: How can dental problems happen from a cleft lip and cleft palate?

Answer: This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.


Question: What does the treatment for cleft lip and cleft palate involve?

Answer: Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.


Question: What does early dental care involve for a cleft lip and cleft palate?

Answer: However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.


Question: What is the recommended dental care for children with a cleft lip and/or cleft palate?

Answer: Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.


Question: What is the link between allergies and eczema?

Answer: Does your child have red, itchy rashes while you or your partner have seasonal allergies or asthma? Studies show that if one or both parents have eczema, asthma, or seasonal allergies, their child is more likely to have eczema. But understanding the connection can help you manage the disease.


Question: How is eczema connected to allergies?

Answer: But the disease can flare up when you're around things that cause an allergic reaction. Your body's immune system overreacts to substances, called allergens, that are usually not harmful. You might get hives, itching, swelling, sneezing, and a runny nose. Allergens can include: Dust mites Pollen Pet dander Some foods Children with eczema are also more likely to have food allergies, such as to eggs, nuts, or milk. They often make eczema symptoms worse for kids but not for adults. Pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites, and other allergens may make eczema flare up.


Question: How can you avoid allergy triggers to prevent eczema?

Answer: But the disease can flare up when you're around things that cause an allergic reaction. It can help you figure out what things might be triggering them. Share the journal with your doctor during appointments. Stay away from things that irritate your skin. Common ones include wool, soaps and detergents, perfume, chemicals, sand, and cigarette smoke. Avoid allergy triggers. Pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites, and other allergens may make eczema flare up. You could try a dust-proof mattress and pillow covers, remove carpets, avoid contact with animals, and stay indoors when pollen counts are high.


Question: What is the similarities and differences between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure?

Answer: Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood âbacks upâ into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.


Question: What are commonly used drugs associated with serious alcohol interactions?

Answer: If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.


Question: Why are older Americans at special risk of alcohol interactions with medication?

Answer: Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. It's not directly related to COPD. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.


Question: How are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and right-sided heart failure linked?

Answer: Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.


Question: Can alcohol alter the effectiveness of medication?

Answer: Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.


Question: What is the difference between multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)?

Answer: Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. They have similar symptoms, like twitching. Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable.


Question: What is motor neuropathy (MMN)?

Answer: Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak. They'll also twitch and cramp. MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger. The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed. But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all. Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease.


Question: What causes motor neuropathy (MMN)?

Answer: Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. No one knows what causes MMN. Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders. Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens.


Question: What should I expect if I have multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN)?

Answer: Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems. If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist. They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you. Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities. If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes. If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking. Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas.


Question: What are the treatments for palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?

Answer: The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.


Question: What should I do if I have blisters or cracks on the palms of my hands or soles of my feet?

Answer: Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.


Question: What is palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?

Answer: Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.


Question: Which diseases are covered by the MMR  vaccine?

Answer: The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.


Question: Who does not need to get the MMR vaccine?

Answer: The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.


Question: Why do adults need the MMR vaccine?

Answer: And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Rubella ( German measles).


Question: What will happen after deep brain stimulation (DBS) for epilepsy?

Answer: After your surgery, your doctor will turn on the DBS device with a small computer called a programming unit. He'll use it to adjust the speed and intensity of the electrical signals to control your seizures. You'll also get a programming unit to take home, so you can adjust your device and track any seizures you get. DBS might not stop your seizures completely, but it should cut down how many you get. You'll need to get the battery replaced every 3 to 4 years.


Question: How does deep brain stimulation (DBS) for epilepsy work?

Answer: When you have epilepsy, abnormal bursts of electrical activity in these brain cells set off seizures. When you get DBS, the tiny electrodes that your doctor puts into your brain deliver an electric current. This interrupts the abnormal electrical signals and helps prevent seizures. It's kind of like having a pacemaker for your brain. Electrical signals will travel from the neurostimulator to the leads in your brain.


Question: What is birth control?

Answer: Some condoms have spermicide. Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs.


Question: Should I see a doctor about skier's thumb?

Answer: Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.)


Question: Are there home treatments for skier's thumb?

Answer: How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.


Question: How can I prevent getting skier's thumb?

Answer: If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.


Question: How is skier's thumb treated?

Answer: If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.


Question: How is obesity linked to osteoarthritis?

Answer: Ironically, weight loss itself, particularly rapid weight loss or loss of a large amount of weight, can make you more likely to get gallstones. Gout is a disease that affects the joints. The extra uric acid can form crystals that deposit in the joints.


Question: How is obesity linked to gallbladder disease?

Answer: Ironically, weight loss itself, particularly rapid weight loss or loss of a large amount of weight, can make you more likely to get gallstones. Losing weight at a rate of about 1 pound a week is less likely to cause gallstones. The more you weigh, the more likely you are to get gout.


Question: How is obesity linked to type 2 diabetes?

Answer: If you have type 2 diabetes, losing weight and becoming more physically active can help control your blood sugar levels. Becoming more active may also reduce your need for diabetes medication. Gout is more common in overweight people.


Question: How is obesity linked to sleep apnea?

Answer: Here's a closer look at seven conditions that are linked to being obese or overweight. Sleep apnea can cause a person to snore heavily and to briefly stop breathing during sleep. Sleep apnea may cause daytime sleepiness and make heart disease and stroke more likely. Weight loss often improves sleep apnea.


Question: How is obesity linked to heart disease and stroke?

Answer: It makes you more likely to have conditions including: Heart disease and stroke High blood pressure Diabetes Some cancers Gallbladder disease and gallstones Osteoarthritis Gout Breathing problems, such as sleep apnea (when a person stops breathing for short episodes during sleep) and asthma Not everyone who is obese has these problems. Both of those conditions make heart disease or stroke more likely. The good news is that losing a small amount of weight can reduce your chances of developing heart disease or a stroke.


Question: Do stress and anxiety have any relation to irritable bowel syndrome?

Answer: Types of this therapy that have worked for people with IBS include: Relaxation practice. After a few sessions, you should be able to calm yourself down on your own. For most people, this approach can't replace standard medical care for irritable bowel syndrome.


Question: What types of behavioral therapy has helped people with irritable bowel syndrome?

Answer: The goal is to get your mind and body in a calm, peaceful state. Techniques include meditation, progressive muscle relaxation (tensing and loosening individual muscles), guided imagery, and deep breathing. Biofeedback. To start, you use an electrical device to help you recognize your body's response to stress. You enter an altered state of mind, either with a trained professional's help or, after some training, on your own. Under hypnosis, visual suggestions can help you imagine pain or tension slipping away. Cognitive behavioral therapy. A trained mental health professional helps you work out conflicts and understand your feelings.


Question: How does uveitis damage your retina?

Answer: Inflammation can cause them. That damages the optic nerve at the back of your eye. It's full of light-sensitive cells and nerve cells. They take in sights around you and send that information to your optic nerve and your brain. If your retina swells from uveitis, you can lose some of your vision in the center. You may see a black spot in the middle of your view. It doesn't hurt, though. If this swelling lasts for a long time without treatment, your vision loss may be for good.


Question: Can uveitis cause a detached retina?

Answer: If your retina swells from uveitis, you can lose some of your vision in the center. You may see a black spot in the middle of your view. You may also see lights flash. If any of these things are happening to you, call your doctor and get treatment quickly. Moving fast can save your eyesight.


Question: Are supplements OK if you have hepatitis C?

Answer: Watch Your Supplements Your doc should also know about any herbal remedies and supplements you take. Some -- like kava kava -- may harm your liver. Talk to your doctor before you start a workout program.


Question: What are the side effects of digoxin (Digox, Lanoxin) when treating atrial fibrillation (AFib)?

Answer: Slow your heart rate . Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.


Question: What is sleep enuresis?

Answer: In this condition, the affected person is unable to maintain urinary control when asleep. There are two kinds of enuresis -- primary and secondary. In primary enuresis, a person has been unable to have urinary control from infancy onward. In secondary enuresis, a person has a relapse after previously having been able to have urinary control. Enuresis can be caused by medical conditions (for example, diabetes, urinary tract infections, and sleep apnea) or by psychiatric disorders.


Question: What is rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder?

Answer: Sleepwalking most often occurs during deep non- REM sleep (stages 3 and 4 sleep) early in the night and it can occur during REM sleep in the early morning. REM sleep usually involves a state of sleep paralysis (atonia), but people with this condition move the body or limbs while dreaming. Usually, RBD occurs in men aged 50 and older, but the disorder also can occur in women and in younger people. It differs from sleepwalking and sleep terrors, in that the sleeper can be easily awakened and can recall vivid details of the dream.


Question: Who gets night terrors?

Answer: This sleep disorder, which may run in families, also can occur in adults. Strong emotional tension and/or the use of alcohol can increase the incidence of night terrors among adults. This disorder is most commonly seen in children between ages 5 and 12; however, sleepwalking can occur among younger children, adults, and seniors.


Question: What is sleep bruxism?

Answer: Sleep bruxism -- or teeth grinding -- involves the involuntary, unconscious, excessive grinding or clenching of teeth during sleep. Sleep bruxism may lead to problems, including abnormal wear of the teeth and jaw muscle discomfort. In some cases, grinding can be prevented with the use of a mouth guard. The mouth guard, supplied by a dentist, can fit over the teeth to prevent them from grinding against each other.


Question: What is sleepwalking?

Answer: Sleepwalking occurs when a person appears to be awake and moving around, but is actually asleep. This disorder is most commonly seen in children between ages 5 and 12; however, sleepwalking can occur among younger children, adults, and seniors. Although it usually is harmless, sleep talking can be disturbing to sleep partners or family members who witness it.


Question: What is the antigen test for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Answer: Two common screening tests are: Antibody test: This is the most common type of HIV screening test. Antigen/antibody test: This screening test is also known as a combination or fourth-generation test. It looks for part of the virus (called an antigen) in your blood as well as HIV antibodies. This test can tell if there's HIV in your blood within 2 to 6 weeks of when you were exposed.


Question: What is the antibody test for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Answer: Two common screening tests are: Antibody test: This is the most common type of HIV screening test. It doesn't look for the virus but instead looks for disease-fighting proteins (antibodies) your body makes if you have HIV. They can be found in your blood, urine, or saliva. It can take 3 to 12 weeks to make enough antibodies to tell if you have HIV. Two home HIV tests that check for antibodies have been approved by the FDA. A negative result can remind you how important it is for you or your partner to wear a condom -- especially when you consider that 1 in 8 people with the virus don't know they have HIV.


Question: How widespread is the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)?

Answer: In fact, about 30% of new HIV infections every year are transmitted by people who haven't been diagnosed. It's a good idea to be tested so you can know for sure. A negative result can remind you how important it is for you or your partner to wear a condom -- especially when you consider that 1 in 8 people with the virus don't know they have HIV.


Question: How can nicotine gum help me quit smoking?

Answer: When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone â usually after about 30 minutes. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.


Question: What prescription medications are used to treat IBS with constipation (IBS-C)?

Answer: The drug is a capsule you take once daily on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day. It helps relieve constipation by helping bowel movements happen more often. People age 17 or younger shouldn't take it. The most common side effect is diarrhea. Lubiprostone ( Amitiza) treats IBS- C in women who haven't been helped by other treatments. Studies haven't fully shown that it works well in men. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and belly pain. Doctors may suggest other medications to help relieve some symptoms of IBS, such as constipation, diarrhea, or belly cramping.


Question: How should you add fiber to your diet to treat IBS with constipation (IBS-C)?

Answer: And some high-fiber foods may not agree with you. Dried plums, prune juice, ground flaxseed, and water also help loosen bowels. And they don't treat all IBS symptoms such as stomachaches and bloating. You can reduce stress in many ways.


Question: What supplements are used to treat IBS with constipation (IBS-C)?

Answer: These include: Wheat bran Corn fiber Calcium polycarbophil ( Fibercon) Psyllium ( Fiberall, Metamucil, Perdiem, and others) These agents may help with constipation, but they don't seem to help with other IBS symptoms such as stomachaches, discomfort, and swelling. The extra fiber may make belly pain, bloating, and discomfort worse. Osmotics are considered fairly safe for long-term use for some people with IBS- C, but talk it over with your doctor before you use them regularly.


Question: Are there different types of laxatives used to treat irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C)?

Answer: And there are health risks that come with taking laxatives and supplements regularly. There are different kinds of laxatives. It's important to be aware of what you're taking. Some can be habit-forming and possibly harmful in the long run.


Question: How can you reduce stress to help manage IBS with constipation (IBS-C)?

Answer: Foods affect each person in different ways. Studies haven't fully shown that it works well in men. Regular exercise effectively lowers stress. Another stress-busting technique is behavioral therapy. This approach teaches you how to change the way your mind and body react to events. It can include cognitive behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, hypnosis, biofeedback, and relaxation therapy. Most of these therapies help people avoid overreacting to stressful situations and people. The American College of Gastroenterologists says behavioral therapy can work well for many IBS symptoms.


Question: Can laxatives help IBS-C?

Answer: Laxatives help you go to the bathroom and may work well for occasional constipation. Talk with your doctor before you take these medications.


Question: Does fiber help ease constipation?

Answer: Fiber reduces constipation by softening stool, making it easier to pass. That makes it easier to pass, but research has found that they only help with constipation.


Question: What do I need to know about my baby's umbilical cord?

Answer: This is the tube-like structure that carries food and oxygen from you to your baby while you're pregnant. It also carries waste products away from the baby so your body can get rid of them. After you give birth, doctors clamp and cut the cord. It has no nerves, so neither you nor your baby will feel anything. A small stump will be left on your child's belly. At first, the stump might look shiny and yellow. But as it dries out, it may turn brown or gray or even purplish or blue. It'll shrivel and turn black before it falls off on its own.


Question: What happens when my baby's umbilical cord stump comes off?

Answer: It'll shrivel and turn black before it falls off on its own. Call your doctor if you see: Blood on the end of the cord A white or yellow discharge Swelling or redness around the cord Signs that the area around the cord causes your baby pain (for example, he cries when you touch it) It's normal to see a few drops of blood in your baby's diaper. But if there's a lot of blood as the cord separates, call your doctor right away. If the cord hasn't come off after 3 weeks, be patient. Keep the area dry and make sure it's not covered by your child's diaper. If it hasn't come off in 6 weeks, or you see signs of fever or infection, call your doctor.


Question: Why does someone with diabetes need to get their blood checked regularly?

Answer: If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.


Question: Is it common for people with diabetes to have anemia?

Answer: If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.


Question: What will doctors test for if I'm anemic?

Answer: Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.


Question: How should you manage childbirth if you have lupus?

Answer: Women with lupus may have a greater risk of pregnancy complications. Your doctor will decide the method of delivery -- cesarean section or vaginal. But if the mother or baby is under stress, a cesarean section may be the safest and fastest way to deliver. If you have taken steroids during pregnancy, your doctor will increase your dose during labor to help your body cope with the added stress.


Question: How is oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) treated?

Answer: Treatment usually consists of a combination of the following: Psychotherapy : Psychotherapy (a type of counseling) is aimed at helping the child develop more effective coping and problem-solving skills, and ways to express and control anger. A type of therapy called cognitive-behavioral therapy aims to reshape the child's thinking (cognition) to improve behavior. A specialized therapy technique called parent management training ( PMT) teaches parents ways to positively alter their child's behavior. Medication: While there is no medication that is scientifically established or formally approved to treat ODD, drugs may sometimes be used to treat symptoms (impulsivity, irritability, etc.) or other mental illnesses that may be present, such as ADHD or depression.


Question: What causes oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)?

Answer: Biological: Some studies suggest that defects in or injuries to certain areas of the brain can lead to serious behavioral problems in children. Further, many children and teens with ODD also have other mental illnesses, such as ADHD, learning disorders, depression, or an anxiety disorder, which may contribute to their behavior problems. Genetics: Many children and teens with ODD have close family members with mental illnesses, including mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders. Environmental: Factors such as a dysfunctional family life, a family history of mental illnesses and/or substance abuse, and inconsistent discipline by parents may contribute to the development of behavior disorders.


Question: How is oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) diagnosed?

Answer: As with adults, mental illnesses in children are diagnosed based on signs and symptoms that suggest a particular illness like ODD. Although there are no lab tests to specifically diagnose ODD, the doctor may sometimes use tests such as neuroimaging studies or blood tests if they suspect that there may be a medical explanation for the behavior problems that occur. The doctor also will look for signs of other conditions that often occur along with ODD, such as ADHD and depression. If the doctor cannot find a physical cause for the symptoms, he or she will likely refer the child to a child and adolescent psychiatrist or psychologist, mental health professionals who are specially trained to diagnose and treat mental illnesses in children and teens. Psychiatrists and psychologists use specially designed interview and assessment tools to evaluate a child for a mental illness. The doctor often must rely on reports from the child's parents, teachers, and other adults because children often have trouble explaining their problems or understanding their symptoms.


Question: What is oppositional defiant disorder (ODD)?

Answer: When this behavior lasts longer than six months and is excessive compared to what is usual for the child's age, it may mean that the child has a type of behavior disorder called oppositional defiant disorder ( ODD). The child's behavior often disrupts the child's normal daily activities, including activities within the family and at school. Many children and teens with ODD also have other behavioral problems, such as attention deficit disorder, learning disabilities, mood disorders (such as depression), and anxiety disorders. Some children with ODD go on to develop a more serious behavior disorder called conduct disorder.


Question: What makes some people more likely to get addicted to prescription drugs?

Answer: Opioids can also be life-threatening in an overdose. Your biology, social environment, and age or stage of growth seem to affect how likely you are to get addicted. The more risks you have, the greater the chance that taking drugs can lead to addiction. Equally important is your stage of growth. Studies show the earlier someone begins to abuse drugs, the greater the chances are that the addiction may become more serious problems.


Question: What are examples of stimulants?

Answer: The National Institute on Drug Abuse says the three classes of prescription drugs that are often abused are: Opioids used to treat pain Central nervous system ( CNS) depressants, such as benzodiazepines ( Xanax, Valium, Ativan, ), used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders Stimulants, such as amphetamine and ( Adderall) or ( Concerta, Daytrana, Methylin, Ritalin), used to treat attention deficit disorder and narcolepsy (a sleep disorder). Today, they're also prescribed to treat problems such as ADHD, ADD, depression, narcolepsy, and other problems. Examples of stimulants are dextroamphetamine ( Dexedrine, Dextrostat, Pro Centra), lisdexamfetamine ( Vyvanse), methylphenidate ( Concerta, Daytrana, Methylin, Ritalin), and the combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine ( Adderall).


Question: How does the appetite suppressant drug liraglutide (Saxenda) work?

Answer: It was originally marketed as a diabetes treatment under the brand name Victoza. The drug dampens hunger by acting on a hormone in the gut. Yes, but probably not as much as you might hope.


Question: How does the appetite suppressant drug  lorcaserin (Belviq) work?

Answer: The drug may help you feel full after you eat less food than you normally would. It also works on the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that regulates appetite, temperature, and other functions.


Question: What are some tests and tools used to diagnose insomnia?

Answer: During the exam, your doctor will seek to identify any medical or psychological illness that may be contributing to your insomnia. Epworth Sleepiness Scale: a validated questionnaire that is used to assess daytime sleepiness. Polysomnogram: a test measuring activity during sleep. Actigraphy: a test to assess sleep-wake patterns over time. Actigraphs are small, wrist-worn devices (about the size of a wristwatch) that measure movement.


Question: What are some benefits of swimming?

Answer: Swimming will make you more flexible. Aerobic: Yes. Your heart will keep pumping as you use your entire body to move through the water. Strength: Yes. You'll get stronger from the resistance of the water, which is about 12 times the level of air resistance. Try using hand-held paddles, foam noodles, or a kickboard for extra resistance. Sport: Yes. You can compete at any age, and join a team. Low- Impact: Yes. The water gives you buoyancy, so you'll float through your exercise session without putting pressure on your joints. Yes.


Question: What do doctors say about swimming?

Answer: You'll need your arms for most swim strokes, so expect them to get a workout. If you are looking for a great aerobic and total body-strengthening workout, then look no further. Swimming can provide all that and more. Pools are ideal. If you are going to swim in lakes or oceans, you have to be very careful of currents, water temperature, and other obstacles. And never swim alone -- either inside or out.


Question: What areas of the body are targeted by swimming?

Answer: Swimming gives your entire body a great workout, including your core. Arms: Yes. You'll need your arms for most swim strokes, so expect them to get a workout. Legs: Yes. You'll use your legs to propel yourself through the water. Glutes: Yes. Swimming uses your glutes. Back: Yes. Your back muscles will get a workout, whether you're doing the backstroke or a water-based exercise class. Yes.


Question: What is cholera?

Answer: Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium that causes cholera, is usually found in food or water contaminated by feces from a person with the infection. About one in 20 people infected have severe watery diarrhea accompanied by vomiting, which can quickly lead to dehydration.


Question: What are the symptoms of cholera?

Answer: Cholera is an infectious disease that causes severe watery diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and even death if untreated. Symptoms of cholera can begin as soon as a few hours or as long as five days after infection. Often, symptoms are mild. Although many infected people may have minimal or no symptoms, they can still contribute to spread of the infection.


Question: Which foods can give you vitamin B12?

Answer: Since your body doesn't make vitamin B12, you have to get it from animal-based foods or from supplements. Animal sources include dairy products, eggs, fish, meat, and poultry. If you're looking for a food fortified with B12, check the product's Nutrition Facts label.


Question: How can vitamin B12 affect being pregnant or a new mom?

Answer: You can also get vitamin B12 deficiency if you follow a vegan diet (meaning you don't eat any animal products, including meat, milk, cheese, and eggs) or you are a vegetarian who doesn't eat enough eggs or dairy products to meet your vitamin B12 needs. You should talk to your doctor before you have your baby, so that you have a plan in place for how you'll get enough vitamin B12 to keep your baby healthy. Without enough vitamin B12, your baby could have developmental delays and not thrive and grow like he should.


Question: Can herbal remedies help with treating chronic pain?

Answer: However, it is not possible to draw final conclusions regarding the effectiveness of massage to treat pain because of the shortcomings of available studies. Others, such as white willow bark, devil's claw, ginger, and turmeric have some evidence to support their use to treat pain. If you decide to use herbs to better manage your pain, it is of critical importance to share this information with your doctor. Some herbs may interact with drugs you are receiving for pain or other conditions and may harm your health.


Question: If I have HIV or AIDS, what should I know about vaccines?

Answer: Not all vaccines are safe for people with HIV/ AIDS. Vaccines made from live viruses should not be given to persons with CD4 counts less than 200 because they contain a weak form of the germ and may cause a mild case of the disease. Anyone, regardless of their HIV status, is at risk of side effects associated with vaccines, including: Pain, redness, or swelling at the place where you receive the shot Fatigue If you have HIV/ AIDS, additional considerations about vaccines include: Vaccines may increase your viral load Vaccines may not work as well if your CD4 count is very low. Vaccines made from a live virus may cause you to get the disease the vaccine is supposed to prevent. If your CD4 count is low, you should avoid live vaccines, such as chickenpox, measles/mumps/rubella ( MMR), and the flu vaccine in the form of a nose spray.


Question: What is a psychologist and how do they help with mental health?

Answer: A psychologist has a doctoral degree ( Ph D, Psy D, or Ed D) in psychology, which is the study of the mind and behaviors. Licensed psychologists are qualified to do counseling and psychotherapy, perform psychological testing, and provide treatment for mental disorders. They are not, though, medical doctors. Often a psychologist will work in association with a psychiatrist or other medical doctor who provides the medical treatment for mental illness while the psychologist provides the psychotherapy.


Question: How can mental imagery relaxation help my headache?

Answer: Mental imagery relaxation: Mental imagery relaxation, or guided imagery, is a proven form of focused relaxation that helps create harmony between the mind and body. Guided imagery coaches you in creating calm, peaceful images in your mind -- a "mental escape." Identify your self-talk, that is, what you are saying to yourself about what is going on with your migraines or headaches. It is important to identify negative self-talk and develop healthy, positive self-talk. By making affirmations, you can counteract negative thoughts and emotions. Here are some positive statements you can practice. All my needs are met. I am completely and utterly safe. Every day in every way I am getting stronger.


Question: What are some relaxation techniques I can use to help my headaches?

Answer: Some people who are anxious tend to hold their breath and speak in a high-pitched voice as they exhale. On the other hand, some people who are depressed tend to sigh and speak in a low-pitched voice as they exhale. Rhythmic breathing: If your breathing is short and hurried, slow it down by taking long, slow breaths. Recognizing this change will help you to relax even more.


Question: How can progressive muscle relaxation help my headache?

Answer: Progressive muscle relaxation: Switch your thoughts to yourself and your breathing. Take a few deep breaths, exhaling slowly. Mentally scan your body. Notice your headache, if you have one, and other areas that feel tense or cramped. Quickly loosen up these areas. Let go of as much tension as you can. Rotate your head in a smooth, circular motion once or twice. Let all of your muscles completely relax. Recall a pleasant thought for a few seconds. Take another deep breath and exhale slowly. You should feel relaxed.


Question: How can breathing help with my headaches?

Answer: Some people who are anxious tend to hold their breath and speak in a high-pitched voice as they exhale. On the other hand, some people who are depressed tend to sigh and speak in a low-pitched voice as they exhale. Rhythmic breathing: If your breathing is short and hurried, slow it down by taking long, slow breaths. Recognizing this change will help you to relax even more.


Question: What are some affirmations I can use to help with migraines and headaches?

Answer: Let all of your muscles completely relax. Let go of things I cannot control. I am healthy, vital, and strong. There is nothing in the world I cannot handle. All my needs are met. I am completely and utterly safe. Every day in every way I am getting stronger.


Question: What would happen if your body has trouble absorbing vitamin D when you have osteomalacia?

Answer: The main ones are: You're not taking in enough vitamin D. You need this vitamin to absorb calcium from your diet. Your doctor probably will recommend: Blood tests to measure the level of vitamin D in your body X-rays to look at your bone structure Bone mineral density scans to test the amount of calcium and phosphate in your bones It doesn't happen often, but your doctor may want to do a bone biopsy. But talk to your doctor about it, and be sure to wear sunscreen. If the problem is severe, you may need surgery.


Question: What is osteomalacia?

Answer: That makes them weak and more likely to bend and break. It's not the same as osteoporosis. Both can cause bones to break. But while osteomalacia is a problem with bones not hardening, osteoporosis is the weakening of the bone. It's rare, but some people have a genetic condition that causes osteomalacia.


Question: What causes osteomalacia?

Answer: When the same thing happens in children, it's called rickets. The main ones are: You're not taking in enough vitamin D. You need this vitamin to absorb calcium from your diet. You can get it from sunlight or certain foods or supplements. Some seizure medications may cause it. It's rare, but some people have a genetic condition that causes osteomalacia.


Question: What are different ways of taking naloxone?

Answer: As an injectable medication, the naloxone kit, called Evzio, comes with two auto-injectors and a trainer device, so you can learn how to use it ahead of time. The nasal spray form of naloxone should be given to the person when he/she is lying down.


Question: What is naloxone?

Answer: Paramedics and emergency room doctors have used it for years to save lives. Naloxone blocks the effects of drugs made from opium, or opioids.


Question: What is PMS?

Answer: The time from one period to the next may get shorter or longer, and you may have heavier or lighter bleeding during your period. But doctors don't know exactly why that is. It seems to be a mix of hormone changes during your menstrual cycle, chemical changes in the brain, and other emotional issues you might have, such as depression, that can make PMS worse. What's more, once you get your period, the rollercoaster may continue. One study found that period-related pains such as cramps, bloating, backaches, and headaches can cloud your thinking, because the pain may make it harder for you to focus on the tasks at hand. Not that you can't still do them -- you can. It may just feel like it takes more work. Lifestyle changes are usually the best way to take control of PMS. Aim to get about 30 minutes of exercise most days of the week, get 8 hours of shut-eye per night, and don't smoke. Your diet makes a difference, too, so fill up on fruits, veggies, and whole grains while you limit salt (hello, bloating) as well as sugar, caffeine, and alcohol.


Question: Who is most at risk for type 2 diabetes?

Answer: It doesn't handle insulin like it should. This is a combination of conditions that put you at risk for other problems, like heart disease, diabetes, or stroke. For example, you might be overweight, especially around your waistline, and have high blood pressure, high blood sugar, as well as cholesterol problems. If you're overweight, the extra pounds put more pressure on your weight-bearing joints.


Question: How is osteoarthritis linked to obesity?

Answer: High blood pressure is more likely if you're overweight or obese. You develop this type of arthritis after the tissue that cushions your bones, called cartilage, wears down as you age. Fat also makes proteins that can cause inflammation. As you start to lose weight, you'll feel and move better, and your joints will have less stress.


Question: Should you get your homocysteine level checked?

Answer: There does appear to be a relationship between high levels of homocysteine and artery damage. The test is still relatively expensive, it isn't widely available, and insurance rarely covers it.


Question: How is homocysteine related to heart disease?

Answer: High levels of it are linked to early development of heart disease. In fact, a high level of homocysteine is a risk factor for heart disease. There does appear to be a relationship between high levels of homocysteine and artery damage. That can lead to atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and blood clots.


Question: What is a ganglion cyst?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } A ganglion cyst is a small sac of fluid that forms over a joint or tendon (tissue that connects muscle to bone). Depending on the size, cysts may feel firm or spongy. Media file 2: The jellylike fluid taken from the cyst in Image 1.


Question: What exams and tests are used to diagnose ganglion cysts?

Answer: Your doctor may get further confirmation by using a syringe to draw out some of the fluid in the cyst (needle aspiration) or by using ultrasound. An ultrasound picture is made as sound waves bounce off of different tissues. It can determine whether the bump is fluid-filled (cystic) or if it is solid. Ultrasound can also detect whether there is an artery or blood vessel causing the lump. Your doctor may send you to a hand surgeon if the bump is large or solid or involves a blood vessel (artery). Magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) is used to see the wrist and is very useful for ganglions. One drawback to this diagnostic method is the cost of the procedure. Your doctor may ask you to return for a check-up after your surgery and will decide if physical or occupational therapy is needed.


Question: What are some top allergenic foods to keep in mind when feeding a baby?

Answer: With any new food, you'll want to be on the lookout for any allergic reactions. There are more than 160 allergenic foods; certain foods may be more allergenic than others. The following eight foods and food groups are known to possibly cause problems with allergic reactions possibly up to 90% of the time. Cow's milk Eggs Peanuts Tree nuts (such as walnuts or almonds) Fish Shellfish Soy Wheat New nutrition guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics say it's okay to introduce these allergy-causing foods when your baby is ready to eat solids. Infants at highest risk of developing peanut allergies are those with eczema or egg allergies or both.


Question: When should you call 911 about food allergy symptoms in your baby?

Answer: The following eight foods and food groups are known to possibly cause problems with allergic reactions possibly up to 90% of the time. If your baby is having trouble breathing/wheezing, has swelling on her face/lips, or develops severe vomiting or diarrhea after eating, immediately call 911. You can inform your pediatrician at a later time.


Question: How are flare-ups in multiple sclerosis treated?

Answer: If you're taking other medication, mild flares will eventually go away on their own. Steroids: If a flare gets in the way of your life, your doctor may give you high-dose steroids through a vein (intravenously) or by mouth to ease your symptoms quickly. These drugs will calm the flare, but they won't slow the course of your disease. Get some exercise: Even a walk around the block can help.


Question: How should I treat multiple sclerosis flare-ups?

Answer: If you're taking other medication, mild flares will eventually go away on their own. Steroids: If a flare gets in the way of your life, your doctor may give you high-dose steroids through a vein (intravenously) or by mouth to ease your symptoms quickly. These drugs will calm the flare, but they won't slow the course of your disease. Get some exercise: Even a walk around the block can help.


Question: When should I start medication for multiple sclerosis?

Answer: These medicines slow down the advance of your disease and prevent flare-ups. If they aren't bothering you, you don't need to treat them. Talk to your doctor about anything you're tempted to take. You should get your doctor to check your levels and discuss if you need to take a supplement.


Question: When do doctors use disease-modifying drugs to treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: There's no cure for multiple sclerosis ( MS), but medicines and lifestyle changes can help you manage the disease. These medicines slow down the advance of your disease and prevent flare-ups.


Question: Are there side effects associated with drugs used to slow the advance of multiple sclerosis?

Answer: They include: Avonex (interferon beta-1a) Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) Extavia (interferon beta-1b) Plegridy (peginterferon beta-1a) Rebif (interferon beta-1a) Glatiramer ( Copaxone, Glatopa): This medication stops your immune system from attacking the myelin that surrounds and protects your nerves. The drug's most common side effects are flushing, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.


Question: What are the side effects of interferon drugs and Copaxone for multiple sclerosis?

Answer: They include: Avonex (interferon beta-1a) Betaseron (interferon beta-1b) Extavia (interferon beta-1b) Plegridy (peginterferon beta-1a) Rebif (interferon beta-1a) Glatiramer ( Copaxone, Glatopa): This medication stops your immune system from attacking the myelin that surrounds and protects your nerves. The drug's most common side effects are flushing, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.


Question: How are other forms of neuropathy that cause burning feet treated?

Answer: Most burning feet treatments focus on preventing further nerve damage and reducing pain. Many other conditions can cause neuropathy or a burning sensation in the feet: Chronic kidney disease (uremia) Small fiber neuropathy Vitamin deficiency (vitamin B12, folate, and occasionally vitamin B6) Alcohol abuse Low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism) Lyme disease HIV/ AIDS Amyloid polyneuropathy Drug side effects, including chemotherapy drugs, vitamin B6 overdose, HIV medicines, amiodarone, isoniazid, metformin, and others Erythromelalgia Heavy metal poisoning (lead, mercury, arsenic) Vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels) Sarcoidosis Guillain- Barre syndrome ( GBS) Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy ( CIDP) Besides neuropathy, infections and inflammation of the feet can also cause a burning sensation. Specific conditions and their treatments include: Vitamin deficiency. Taking additional vitamin B12 orally or by injection can replace low levels of this nutrient. Alcoholism. Stopping excessive drinking prevents ongoing nerve damage and allows nerves to heal. Chronic kidney disease. Dialysis may be necessary to eliminate toxins causing neuropathy and burning feet symptoms. Hypothyroidism. Taking oral thyroid hormone raises low thyroid levels, often reversing neuropathy as well as burning feet symptoms. Treatments are very specialized and include plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) or immune globulin therapy ( IVIG).


Question: What causes burning feet?

Answer: Diabetes and alcohol abuse are by far the most common causes of neuropathy in the legs. Poor absorption of B vitamins after gastric bypass can cause neuropathy in the legs and a sensation of burning feet. For people with other forms of neuropathy that cause burning feet, preventing further nerve damage is equally important.


Question: How is doxepine (Silenor) used to treat insomnia?

Answer: Doxepine ( Silenor ): This sleep drug is approved for use in people who have trouble staying asleep. Silenor may help with sleep maintenance by blocking histamine receptors. Do not take this drug unless you are able to get a full 7 or 8 hours of sleep. That means you can try to fall asleep on your own.


Question: What are concerns regarding the use of drugs for insomnia?

Answer: The FDA warns that you should not drive or do anything that requires you to be alert the day after taking Ambien CR because it stays in the body a long time. There is no proof that they work well for insomnia, and they can cause some drowsiness the next day.


Question: What if you don't like how your medicine makes you feel but you need to treat high triglycerides?

Answer: Solution: Let your doctor know. It may be possible to switch to another drug or adjust your dose. It is possible that lifestyle changes alone will be the best approach.


Question: What can you do about gout?

Answer: This usually happens in your big toe, but you also can have gout in your knee, ankle, foot, hand, wrist, or elbow. You can take anti-inflammatory medicine (like aspirin and ibuprofen), ice the inflamed area and drink plenty of fluids.


Question: What problems with your nervous system are caused by syphilis?

Answer: It's easily treated with antibiotics. Symptoms include: Severe headache Stroke Loss of muscle coordination Paralysis or inability to move part of your body Numbness A mental disorder called dementia Blindness or changes to vision


Question: When is a combination implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) and pacemaker therapy recommended to treat heart failure?

Answer: People with heart failure who have poor ejection fractions (measurement that shows how well the heart pumps with each beat) are at risk for fast irregular heart rhythms -- some of which can be life-threatening -- called arrhythmias. Currently, doctors use an ICD to prevent these dangerous rhythms. The device works by detecting such a rhythm and shocking the heart back to normal. These devices can combine biventricular pacing with anti-tachycardia (fast heart rate) pacing and internal defibrillators ( ICDs) to deliver treatment as needed. Current studies are showing that resynchronization may even lessen the amount of arrhythmia that occurs, decreasing the times the ICD needs to shock the heart. These devices are helping heart failure patients live longer and improving their quality of life. This check is very important because adjustments will be made that can prolong the life of your pacemaker.


Question: What happens to my heart if I have heart failure?

Answer: In the normal heart, the heart's lower chambers (ventricles) pump in sync with the heart's upper chambers (atria). When a person has heart failure, often the right and left ventricles do not pump synchronously. In addition, the heart failure patient may or may not need this type of pacemaker to treat slow heart rhythms and may or may not need an internal defibrillator (implantable cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD), which is designed to treat people at risk for sudden cardiac death or cardiac arrests.


Question: How often do I need to get the pacemaker checked?

Answer: After your pacemaker check, an echocardiogram may be done. This check is very important because adjustments will be made that can prolong the life of your pacemaker. After that, your pacemaker should be checked every six months using a telephone transmitter to evaluate battery function. The nurse will explain how to check your pacemaker using the telephone transmitter. When the battery gets low, you will need to replace your pacemaker.


Question: How does a traditional pacemaker work?

Answer: Pacemakers regulate the right atrium and right ventricle to maintain a good heart rate and keep the atrium and ventricle working together. This is called AV synchrony. In addition, the heart failure patient may or may not need this type of pacemaker to treat slow heart rhythms and may or may not need an internal defibrillator (implantable cardioverter defibrillator, or ICD), which is designed to treat people at risk for sudden cardiac death or cardiac arrests.


Question: How do I prepare for the biventricular pacemaker implant?

Answer: Ask your doctor what medications you are allowed to take before your pacemaker is implanted. Your doctor may ask you to stop certain drugs several days before your procedure. If you must take medications, drink only small sips of water to help you swallow your pills. If you are uncomfortable or need anything during the procedure, please let the nurse know.


Question: How is the pacemaker implanted?

Answer: The doctor will numb your skin by injecting a local numbing medication. Then the area will become numb. You may feel a pulling as the doctor makes a pocket in the tissue under your skin for the pacemaker. You should not feel pain. If you do, tell your nurse. After the pocket is made, the doctor will insert the leads into a vein and guide them into position using a fluoroscopy machine. You may feel your heart beating faster or slower.


Question: Who shouldn't get sclerotherapy?

Answer: If you have had a blood clot in the past, your eligibility will be decided on an individual basis, and will depend on the overall health of the area needing treatment as well as the reason for the clot. Veins that are potentially usable for future heart bypass surgery will generally not be considered for sclerotherapy, unless they are already deemed unusable. If you are pursuing sclerotherapy for cosmetic purposes only, your insurance carrier most likely will not provide coverage.


Question: How can you prevent roundworms in dogs?

Answer: If your dog has roundworms, you may notice them in his poop or vomit. Your vet will give your dog one to three doses at first, which will kill the adult worms. If your puppy’s mother is infected with roundworms, she may pass them before he’s born. But you can do a lot of things to ward them off. Keep your dog away from small, wild animals. Consider keeping him on a leash or in a fenced yard. Talk to your doctor about possibly deworming your dog every so often if he’s at high risk of an infection. Keep them away from areas where dogs have used the bathroom.


Question: What are roundworms?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } They’re usually white or light brown and a few inches long. ( They look like spaghetti.) If your dog has roundworms, you may notice them in his poop or vomit. These parasites are common.


Question: What are the signs of multiple spinal compression fractures?

Answer: Symptoms include: Height loss. Eventually, after several vertebrae have collapsed, you will look noticeably shorter. Kyphosis (curved back): When vertebrae collapse, they form a wedge shape, which makes the spine bend forward. Stomach problems: A shorter spine can compress your stomach, causing digestive problems like constipation, a weak appetite, and weight loss. Hip pain : The shorter spine brings your rib cage closer to your hipbones. If those bones are rubbing against each other, it can hurt. Breathing problems : If the spine is severely compressed, your lungs may not work properly and you can have trouble breathing.


Question: What are symptoms of spinal compression fractures?

Answer: Along with back pain, spinal compression fractures also can cause: Pain that gets worse when you stand or walk but with some relief when you lie down Trouble bending or twisting your body Loss of height A curved, stooped shape to your spine The pain typically happens with a slight back strain during an everyday activity like: Lifting a bag of groceries Bending to the floor to pick something up Slipping on a rug or making a misstep Lifting a suitcase out of the trunk of a car Lifting the corner of a mattress when changing bed linens For many people, a spinal compression fracture will hurt less as the bone heals. That can take up to 2 or 3 months. Other people will still have pain after the fracture has healed. For others, the pain may turn into a chronic backache in the injured area. When you have multiple spinal compression fractures, your spine will change a lot. Part of your vertebrae may collapse because the cracks mean it can't support the weight of your spine.


Question: How can alcohol affect diabetes?

Answer: Here are some other ways that alcohol can affect diabetes: While moderate amounts of alcohol may cause blood sugar to rise, excess alcohol can actually decrease your blood sugar level -- sometimes causing it to drop into dangerous levels, especially for people with type 1 diabetes. Beer and sweet wine contain carbohydrates and may raise blood sugar. Alcohol stimulates your appetite, which can cause you to overeat and may affect your blood sugar control. Alcohol can interfere with the positive effects of oral diabetes medicines or insulin. Alcohol may increase triglyceride levels. Alcohol can cause flushing, nausea, increased heart rate, and slurred speech.


Question: What are chemotherapy skin creams?

Answer: Your doctor will use a metal scoop device followed by an electric needle to scrape away the skin cancer cells. These treatments destroy the cancer cells. Try to stay out of the sun as much as possible from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m, the peak hours for UVB radiation.


Question: What is a good way to remember the characteristics of melanoma?

Answer: The shape of one half doesn't match the other. Border. The edges are ragged or blurred. Color. It has uneven shades of brown, black, tan, red, white, or blue. Diameter. There's been a significant change in size. Evolving. This means any new spot or mole changing in color, shape, or size, and any spot that itches, bleeds or becomes painful.. Doctors usually diagnose skin cancer by doing a biopsy. If you have kids, be a good role model for sun protection and help your child learn how to take good care of their skin.


Question: Who is at risk for melanoma?

Answer: You're also at risk if: You've had skin cancer before. You use tanning beds.


Question: How is melanoma treated?

Answer: If you have non-melanoma skin cancer (basal cell or squamous cell carcinomas), your treatment may include: Removing the skin cancer. Radiation therapy if you have advanced melanoma Follow these tips to help prevent skin cancer: Wear sunscreen every day.


Question: How is cryosurgery or freezing done to treat skin cancer?

Answer: You'll be awake for this short, in-office procedure. She will use a spray, cotton swab, or metal device called a cryoprobe to apply extremely cold liquid nitrogen to the cancer. This freezes the cancer cells and the immediate surrounding cells. The frozen skin thaws and forms a scab, which eventually falls off, leaving a white scar.


Question: What specialists can help me diagnose my cognitive difficulties as a result of multiple sclerosis?

Answer: You wonder whether the illness is clouding your thinking. Your doctor may refer you to a neuropsychologist, speech pathologist, or occupational therapist.


Question: How can I rehab to sharpen my thinking that has been affected by multiple sclerosis?

Answer: That means poor focus, slowed thinking, or a fuzzy memory. This can include: Memory exercises on a computer Home or work strategies with notebooks, organizers, or filing systems to help you remember things It's possible, but rare, that thinking problems become so severe that someone with MS needs constant care or can't live on their own.


Question: How do you stop the stinging from a jellyfish sting?

Answer: Remove tentacles with a pair of tweezers. After you remove the tentacles, soak the affected area in hot water (104-113 F or 40-45 C) for at least 20 minutes. A hot shower is OK if that's easier than soaking. You need antivenin (also called antivenom) for Australian box jellyfish stings. How to Treat a Sting on or Near Your Eyes It's OK to wash your eyes with seawater. Most are unproven.


Question: How do you decontaminate and remove tentacles from jellyfish stings?

Answer: The person displays signs of a severe allergic reaction. Rinse the area with vinegar for at least 30 seconds. After you remove the tentacles, soak the affected area in hot water (104-113 F or 40-45 C) for at least 20 minutes. If you don't have a thermometer, make sure the water is hot but not scalding. These treatments are based on research done in the Indo- Pacific areas and may not work for all stings.


Question: What are the signs and symptoms of genital warts in women?

Answer: They might be very small or appear as large clusters. They may be reddish in color or white. Sometimes, you can have genital warts but show no symptoms at all. In men, the warts may appear on the penis, scrotum, or around the anus. In both men and women, genital warts can also show up on the lips, mouth, tongue, and throat.


Question: How is high blood pressure linked to migraines?

Answer: Are you more likely to have some medical problems if you get those intense headaches? There may be a genetic link between the two.


Question: What is cytomegalovirus (CMV)?

Answer: It's not a problem for most people because a healthy immune system can easily control it. But it can make people with weakened immune symptoms, like someone with advanced HIV, very sick. If you have symptoms, they're mild and similar to other illnesses: Fatigue Swollen glands Fever In persons with advanced HIV, CMV can move around your body if it's not treated. You might need medication injected directly into your eye if the virus is threatening your sight.


Question: What are other ways to prevent baby bottle tooth decay?

Answer: Other techniques to help prevent baby bottle tooth decay: Don't fill bottles with sugar water and soft drinks. Never allow your child to fall asleep with a bottle containing anything but water. Never give your child a pacifier dipped in anything sweet. Reduce the sugar in your child's diet, especially between meals.


Question: Are symptoms always a sign of thyroid cancer?

Answer: In fact, they're usually caused by other things. You'll need to see your doctor to find out what it is. But it's possible to have thyroid cancer without any symptoms at all.


Question: Are symptoms of thyroid cancer basis for diagnosis?

Answer: In fact, they're usually caused by other things. You'll need to see your doctor to find out what it is. But it's possible to have thyroid cancer without any symptoms at all.


Question: How does an ICD work for heart failure?

Answer: It monitors your heartbeat, and if it detects an irregular rhythm, it can send can one of several types of pulses. During the procedure, your doctor will use X-ray images to guide wires into your veins and connect them to your heart.


Question: How long does an ICD last?

Answer: During the procedure, your doctor will use X-ray images to guide wires into your veins and connect them to your heart. You'll need to have a minor procedure to replace the battery when it is almost out of power.


Question: How should you get help for chronic pain?

Answer: But you and your doctor can work together to treat it. They can help you find relief so pain won't keep you from living your life. Some options include medicine, relaxation therapy, physical therapy, acupuncture, and lifestyle changes, such as getting enough sleep and not smoking.


Question: What are side effects of taking steroids to treat ulcerative colitis (UC)?

Answer: These turn down your immune system to fight inflammation. But steroids aren't a long-term solution, because they can cause side effects like: Weight gain Acne High blood pressure High blood sugar Mood swings Bone loss They also don't prevent future flares. So it's best to use them only for a short time and at the lowest dose that helps.


Question: What is aspirin sensitivity?

Answer: Others have what doctors call a non-allergic sensitivity to it. That means when they take the drug, they have symptoms -- sometimes dangerous ones -- but they don't have an allergy. People with this condition sometimes have problems with other similar meds for pain. About 3% to 5% of people with asthma have aspirin sensitivity.


Question: How many people does back pain affect?

Answer: This happens to many people older than 60. Less-common causes of back pain are: Kidney stones and infections Endometriosis, a buildup of uterine tissue outside the uterus) Osteomyelitis or discitis, infections in the bones and discs of the spine Fibromyalgia, a condition that causes widespread muscle pain Depending on the cause of your pain, your treatment could include lifestyle changes, medication, or possibly surgery.


Question: How can alcohol affect chronic pain?

Answer: If you're living with chronic pain, drinking less or no alcohol can improve your quality of life. When you focus on pain, it makes it worse rather than better.


Question: What do you need to know about lung biopsy?

Answer: In this procedure, a doctor removes a small sample of cells from your lung and checks it under a microscope for signs of disease. You may also get a lung biopsy to help figure out why there's fluid in your lungs or to diagnose cancer. Whatever the reason, you may have lots of questions about how it's done and how to get ready. A lot depends on which type of lung biopsy your doctor recommends. To find the best place to do the procedure, you'll get an ultrasound, CT scan, or a special type of X-ray known as fluoroscopy.


Question: What is an open lung biopsy (limited thoracotomy)?

Answer: In this procedure, a doctor removes a small sample of cells from your lung and checks it under a microscope for signs of disease. A light and camera help guide tiny tools that take cells from your lung out through the tube. You usually get this type of lung biopsy when cells can't be reached with a bronchoscopy. You'll get general anesthesia for this procedure, which means you won't be awake for it.