Question: What are the symptoms of depression in bipolar disorder?

Answer: During the depression phase of bipolar disorder, you might: Feel sad, worried, or empty Have little to no energy Feel like you can't enjoy anything Sleep too little or too much Have a hard time getting out of bed Eat too little or too much Have trouble focusing or remembering things Have a hard time making decisions Think about suicide or death You could have all of these symptoms or some of them. Someone with bipolar disorder can sometimes feel very sad but also full of energy. The surest sign of a phase of depression is that you feel down for a long time -- usually at least 2 weeks. You might have these episodes rarely or several times a year.


Question: What are other steps to fight depression in bipolar disorder?

Answer: You can take other steps to fight depression, too: Don't drink alcohol or use drugs. They can make your mood worse and keep your medications from working. Stick to a routine. Try to go to bed, wake up, exercise, and take your medicines at the same time every day. Don't make major life changes while you're depressed. Your doctor or therapist may be able to help you schedule absences from work if you need them. Ask a family member of friend for support. They can help you keep up with your appointments and medications.


Question: What should you do if you are thinking about suicide or hurting yourself if you have depression in bipolar disorder?

Answer: If you are thinking about suicide or hurting yourself: Tell someone who can help you right now Call your mental health professional Call your doctor Call 911 or go to the emergency room The manic and depressive phases of bipolar disorder don't necessarily follow a pattern.


Question: What should you do when you have depression in bipolar disorder?

Answer: That may help you know when a mood change is coming on so you can handle it early. Most include a mix of medicine and talk therapy. Your doctor might prescribe a few different kinds of medication, including mood stabilizers, antidepressants, and antipsychotic drugs. Talk therapy can also help you control stress and recognize your symptoms sooner. Another type of therapy, called cognitive behavioral therapy, teaches you good ways to handle the negative thoughts that come with depression.


Question: What causes neck pain?

Answer: Causes of neck pain include: Abnormalities in the bone or joints Trauma Poor posture Degenerative diseases Tumors Muscle strain The shoulder is a ball and socket joint with a large range of movement.


Question: What causes shoulder pain?

Answer: Causes of neck pain include: Abnormalities in the bone or joints Trauma Poor posture Degenerative diseases Tumors Muscle strain The shoulder is a ball and socket joint with a large range of movement. Such a mobile joint tends to be more susceptible to injury. Shoulder pain can stem from one or more of the following causes: Strains from overexertion Tendonitis from overuse Shoulder joint instability Dislocation Collar or upper arm bone fractures Frozen shoulder Pinched nerves (also called radiculopathy) X-rays: Plain X-rays can reveal narrowing of the space between two spinal bones, arthritis-like diseases, tumors, slipped discs, narrowing of the spinal canal, fractures and instability of the spinal column.


Question: How are neck and shoulder pain treated?

Answer: Causes of neck pain include: Abnormalities in the bone or joints Trauma Poor posture Degenerative diseases Tumors Muscle strain The shoulder is a ball and socket joint with a large range of movement. Pain also may be treated with a local application of moist heat or ice. Local corticosteroid injections are often helpful for arthritis of the shoulder. For both neck and shoulder pain movement, exercises may help. For cases in which nerve roots or the spinal cord are involved, surgical procedures may be necessary. Your doctor can tell you which is the best course of treatment for you.


Question: When should you ask your doctor about taking decongestants?

Answer: Ask your doctor before taking decongestants if you have: Glaucoma High blood pressure that's not under control Heart conditions Thyroid problems Enlarged prostate Diabetes Decongestants make some people feel jittery or have trouble sleeping.


Question: What are common decongestants?

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(); }); } Decongestants come in pills, liquids, nose drops, and nasal sprays. Many are available without a prescription. Common decongestants include: Afrin, Dristan, Vicks Sinex (oxymetazoline) Sudafed PE, Suphedrin PE (phenylephrine) Silfedrine, Sudafed, Suphedrin (pseudoephedrine) Some over-the-counter decongestants -- those with pseudoephedrine -- are found behind the pharmacy counter.


Question: What should you know about decongestants?

Answer: Here's how decongestants work: Allergies make the lining of your nose swell. Decongestants shrink swollen blood vessels and tissues. That relieves the congestion. But decongestants can't help with sneezing or itching.


Question: I live alone, and Iâm recovering from hip replacement surgery. How can family and friends help?

Answer: If you don't have a support system you can rely on, ask your doctor if you could stay in a rehab center after surgery while you recover. Set up a kind of "base camp" where you'll spend most of your time -- with phone, computer, remotes, and everything else you'll need in easy reach. Remove possible tripping hazards, such as loose rugs.


Question: Iâve decided to get hip replacement surgery. What can I do to get ready for it?

Answer: Check out expert web sites like the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons ( AAOS) or the American Association of Hip and Knee Surgeons ( AAHKS). Write down questions for your surgeon. Get in shape before surgery. It could help speed up your recovery. Meet with a physical therapist. It's helpful to do this before your surgery. Test drive your crutches or walker. Consider sleeping in a room on the first floor.


Question: When does pain happen in people with sickle cell disease?

Answer: Pain is a common problem for people with sickle cell disease. It happens when the sickle-shaped red blood cells that cause the condition get stuck in small blood vessels and block blood flow. That can cause a pain episode or crisis to start suddenly, usually in the lower back, arms, legs, chest, and belly. For others, health problems from sickle cell disease can cause pain that lasts longer. But no matter the type of sickle cell pain you have, there are many options that can help you find relief. Talk to your doctor about making a plan to manage your pain.


Question: How can hydroxyurea help with treating pain from sickle cell disease?

Answer: But if the pain doesn't go away or is severe, you or your child may have to go to the hospital for more treatment. To help you with chronic pain, your doctor may prescribe painkillers to take every day.


Question: How is chronic pain from sickle cell disease treated?

Answer: It happens when the sickle-shaped red blood cells that cause the condition get stuck in small blood vessels and block blood flow. For others, health problems from sickle cell disease can cause pain that lasts longer. To help you with chronic pain, your doctor may prescribe painkillers to take every day. She may also recommend physical therapy or orthopedic devices to support your back or limbs. And in some cases, doctors may recommend surgery to correct a problem that's hurting you, or temporarily numb a nerve to give you relief.


Question: What can your doctor advise to treat blepharitis?

Answer: If your doctor advises: Make a solution of half baby shampoo or mild soap, half water. Place the cloth over your index finger, dip it in the mix, and use it to clean your eyelid. Wash one lid at a time. Close the eye you're cleaning. Rub the washcloth over your eyelashes and the edge of your lids for about 30 seconds to loosen clogged oils. Apply light pressure to squeeze out clogged oils from the glands behind your lashes. Rinse thoroughly with a clean, warm, wet washcloth. Pat dry. If the blepharitis results from a problem with your oil glands, the doctor may suggest a testosterone cream to put on your eyelids. He may also suggest Lipi Flow, a 12-minute procedure that gently heats clogged glands and applies mild pressure to âmilk outâ the oils and testosterone cream.


Question: Is there a cure for blepharitis?

Answer: But it can be treated and controlled. Just take care of your eyelids. If you don't treat blepharitis, it could scar or injure your eyelids and your eye.


Question: Can you prevent blepharitis?

Answer: Keep your eyelids clean. Remove all eye makeup before bedtime. Don't use eyeliner on the back edges of your eyelids behind the lashes. If you're in the early stages of treating blepharitis, you can prevent further irritation by not using makeup. Once you do start to use it again, replace products used in or near your eyelids. They may be contaminated.


Question: How can I clean my eye if I have blepharitis?

Answer: Rewet as necessary to keep it warm. This will help soften crusts and loosen oily debris. Place the cloth over your index finger, dip it in the mix, and use it to clean your eyelid. Rinse thoroughly with a clean, warm, wet washcloth.


Question: What are the risks of anesthesia?

Answer: As a matter of fact, not only have errors become relatively uncommon, but experts say anesthesia is one of the safest areas of health care today.


Question: How can I lower the risks from anesthesia?

Answer: Here are ways to lower them: Ask your doctor about alternatives to general anesthesia. See if you might have a choice. Find out if any family members have ever had a bad reaction to anesthesia. Make sure your doctor knows if you or anyone in your family has ever had a bad reaction to anesthesia before. Follow the doctor's instructions about eating. This can lead not only to aspiration pneumonia but then potentially make it impossible to get oxygen into your lungs during the anesthesia procedure -- and without oxygen, systems within your body fail and you can die.


Question: How can magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) help in the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis?

Answer: MRI: Using magnetic fields and radio waves, this shows detailed images of your bile ducts.


Question: How can a CT scan help in the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis?

Answer: CT scan: This special type of X-ray can also check for problems in and around your liver.


Question: How can ultrasound help in the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)?

Answer: The tests may include: Ultrasound: This test uses high-frequency sound waves to check your liver and bile ducts for damage.


Question: What are symptoms of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)?

Answer: Other times, you may have symptoms, so your doctor may order tests. You may feel tired, or have itchy skin, dry eyes, or a dry mouth. As the disease gets more serious, you may also have other signs, like: Yellow skin and eyes Pain and swelling in your abdomen Joint, bone, or muscle pain Darkened skin Swollen feet or ankles If your doctor thinks you might have PBC, he'll do a physical exam and ask you about your family history. You might get one if your AMA blood test is negative but you have other signs of PBC.


Question: How can TENS help with treating spinal cord injury pain?

Answer: Spinal cord injury pain.


Question: Does TENS help with period pain?

Answer: Small studies suggest that TENS provides relief from painful menstrual cramps and back pain related to the menstrual cycle.


Question: How safe is TENS?

Answer: It's generally considered safe, with fewer side effects than some other types of pain relief. There have been some reports of people getting mild electrical burns when they use their TENS unit improperly. So you should learn how to use a TENS unit with supervision from an experienced doctor or physical therapist.


Question: What will your doctor ask during your doctor's visit for chronic constipation?

Answer: Your doctor will want to know as much as she can about how your constipation is affecting you. In addition to getting your family and medical history, she may ask you: When your symptoms started and how long they've been going on Whether your symptoms stop and start or happen all the time If anything seems to make your symptoms better or worse Whether you're having pain in your stomach or vomiting How much you've been eating or drinking If you've recently gained or lost weight Whether you have blood in your stool or when you wipe If you have to strain to poop Basic tests help your doctor tell if you have chronic constipation and what may be causing it.


Question: What should you do before your appointment to treat chronic constipation?

Answer: When you call to schedule your visit, ask if there's anything you need to do (or not do) before you come in. For example, you may need to change how you eat in the days leading up to your visit. Be sure you have all the information that will help your doctor best treat you, like: A list of all the symptoms you've been having Your medical history, including any medications, vitamins, or supplements you're taking and any family history of digestive problems Personal information that could be affecting your health, like pregnancy, stress, or recent travel If you have questions you'd like to ask the doctor, make sure to write them down ahead of time and bring them with you. You may want to take a friend or family member with you to the appointment, especially if they know some of your medical or symptom history. They can be another set of ears to listen and remember information during your visit.


Question: What questions might your doctor ask during your visit for chronic constipation?

Answer: Your doctor will want to know as much as she can about how your constipation is affecting you. In addition to getting your family and medical history, she may ask you: When your symptoms started and how long they've been going on Whether your symptoms stop and start or happen all the time If anything seems to make your symptoms better or worse Whether you're having pain in your stomach or vomiting How much you've been eating or drinking If you've recently gained or lost weight Whether you have blood in your stool or when you wipe If you have to strain to poop Basic tests help your doctor tell if you have chronic constipation and what may be causing it.


Question: How can colon transit time test help in the diagnosis of chronic constipation?

Answer: Colon transit time test. Your doctor will give you a small pill to swallow that has a radioactive marker. Then she will track how long it takes for the pill to pass out of your body. If it takes longer than 3 days, it means your digestive tract has a problem digesting food correctly. Once your doctor has the information she needs from the tests you have, she can recommend the best treatment for your constipation.


Question: What tests are used to see if you have a problem with your digestive system related to chronic constipation?

Answer: Tests that help the doctor figure out if you have a problem with your digestive system include: Anal manometry: This measures how well your anus works. It checks how tight the muscles around it are and how they respond to signals from your nerves. A technician puts a thin tube with pressure sensors and a balloon in your anus. Once the sensors are in the right place, she slowly pulls the tube out to gauge muscle tone and contractions. The test takes about a half hour. Balloon expulsion test. Your doctor will place a small balloon filled with water into your rectum and then ask you to push it out like you would stool. If it takes you longer than a minute to get it out, it tells your doctor that the muscles that help you pass a bowel movement may not be working the way they should. Defecography: This test helps your doctor gauge how well your pelvic floor muscles and rectum are working while you poop. A radiologist puts a barium paste in your rectum that mimics the feeling of stool. You sit on a toilet next to a video X-ray machine. First, you'll need to squeeze and hold in the paste. Then, you'll need to strain as if you're having a bowel movement. The radiologist looks for problems as you push it out. Colon transit time test. Your doctor will give you a small pill to swallow that has a radioactive marker. Then she will track how long it takes for the pill to pass out of your body. If it takes longer than 3 days, it means your digestive tract has a problem digesting food correctly.


Question: What basic tests can help your doctor diagnose chronic constipation?

Answer: In addition to getting your family and medical history, she may ask you: When your symptoms started and how long they've been going on Whether your symptoms stop and start or happen all the time If anything seems to make your symptoms better or worse Whether you're having pain in your stomach or vomiting How much you've been eating or drinking If you've recently gained or lost weight Whether you have blood in your stool or when you wipe If you have to strain to poop Basic tests help your doctor tell if you have chronic constipation and what may be causing it. They may include a rectal exam, blood tests, urine tests, and stool sample tests. They can be uncomfortable, but they give important information about what's going on. Your doctor will want to rule out any underlying health condition that may cause your problem. Tests that help your doctor see inside your intestines include: Flexible sigmoidoscopy.


Question: How can flexible sigmoidoscopy help in the diagnosis of chronic constipation?

Answer: This test looks inside your lower intestine and rectum with a thin, flexible tube. The tube has a tiny camera in it. With the camera, your doctor can see what's going on in your intestines and check for a problem.


Question: What kinds of tests are used to diagnose chronic constipation?

Answer: In addition to getting your family and medical history, she may ask you: When your symptoms started and how long they've been going on Whether your symptoms stop and start or happen all the time If anything seems to make your symptoms better or worse Whether you're having pain in your stomach or vomiting How much you've been eating or drinking If you've recently gained or lost weight Whether you have blood in your stool or when you wipe If you have to strain to poop Basic tests help your doctor tell if you have chronic constipation and what may be causing it. They may include a rectal exam, blood tests, urine tests, and stool sample tests. They can be uncomfortable, but they give important information about what's going on. Your doctor may give you medication to help you relax while you have it.


Question: How can colonoscopy help in the diagnosis of chronic constipation?

Answer: This test looks inside your lower intestine and rectum with a thin, flexible tube. Your doctor may give you medication to help you relax while you have it.


Question: What tests are used to see inside the intestine to diagnose chronic constipation?

Answer: When you call to schedule your visit, ask if there's anything you need to do (or not do) before you come in. You may want to take a friend or family member with you to the appointment, especially if they know some of your medical or symptom history. Your doctor will want to rule out any underlying health condition that may cause your problem. Tests that help your doctor see inside your intestines include: Flexible sigmoidoscopy. This test looks inside your lower intestine and rectum with a thin, flexible tube. The tube has a tiny camera in it. With the camera, your doctor can see what's going on in your intestines and check for a problem. Colonoscopy. This is very similar to flexible sigmoidoscopy, but it's a longer test because it looks at your entire large intestine. Your doctor may give you medication to help you relax while you have it. Barium enema X-ray. An enema is when a doctor injects liquid or gas -- in this case, a white liquid called barium -- into your rectum through a small tube. Barium helps problem areas or blockages in your colon show up on an X-ray.


Question: How does my age affect my diabetes?

Answer: Aging can affect how well you manage your diabetes. Some hurdles you may face include: Lower mental energy and memory loss, which can make it harder to plan meals and remember to take medication Changes in your body that keep medicine from working as well as it once did Eyesight problems, which can cause you to make mistakes reading your blood sugar levels or taking the right dose of insulin Medications you take for other problems interacting with your diabetes meds and affecting how well they work By making a plan with your health care team and listening closely to your changing body, you can continue to live a healthy life.


Question: What is diabetes like in older adults?

Answer: Aging can affect how well you manage your diabetes. Some hurdles you may face include: Lower mental energy and memory loss, which can make it harder to plan meals and remember to take medication Changes in your body that keep medicine from working as well as it once did Eyesight problems, which can cause you to make mistakes reading your blood sugar levels or taking the right dose of insulin Medications you take for other problems interacting with your diabetes meds and affecting how well they work By making a plan with your health care team and listening closely to your changing body, you can continue to live a healthy life.


Question: How can you tell if something is wrong with your body if you have diabetes?

Answer: When you have type 2 diabetes, even small signs can be a clue that something bigger is brewing: Leg pain, numbness, or sores that take a long time to heal might mean your arteries are becoming diseased. Feeling shaky, sweaty, irritable, or confused can be a sign of low blood sugar. Falling and breaking bones often could mean your bones aren't getting enough calcium, possibly because of osteoporosis. The good news is that staying on top of your diabetes will help you avoid -- and in some cases, reverse -- serious complications. Stay in tune with how you feel, and report any changes to your doctor.


Question: What can I do to manage my diabetes medications?

Answer: To stay on top of your day-to-day needs: Make a list of everything you're taking and what it's for. Stick to one pharmacy when you fill your prescriptions, so your records are all together. Store meds in a pill organizer to help you remember whether you've taken your daily dose or not. Use your phone's alarm, a timer, or other device to remind you when it's time to take your dose. Make taking your meds part of your daily routine so it becomes a habit.


Question: How can I make sure I have a balanced diet if I have diabetes?

Answer: Use this as a guide for the rest: Fill half of your plate with non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, greens, or carrots. Fill one-fourth of your plate with whole grains or starchy vegetables like whole wheat noodles, brown rice, or sweet potatoes. Fill one-fourth of your plate with proteins like meat, eggs, or fish.


Question: Who can help me live well with diabetes?

Answer: Aging can affect how well you manage your diabetes. Some hurdles you may face include: Lower mental energy and memory loss, which can make it harder to plan meals and remember to take medication Changes in your body that keep medicine from working as well as it once did Eyesight problems, which can cause you to make mistakes reading your blood sugar levels or taking the right dose of insulin Medications you take for other problems interacting with your diabetes meds and affecting how well they work By making a plan with your health care team and listening closely to your changing body, you can continue to live a healthy life. There are many medical professionals who can help you live well with diabetes, including: Endocrinologists Nurses Registered dietitians Pharmacists Diabetes educators Foot doctors Eye doctors Dentists Your risk of depression goes up with both diabetes and age.


Question: What happens when I often have low blood sugar levels due to diabetes?

Answer: Diabetes puts you at higher risk of heart attack and stroke, so other numbers to keep tabs on are your: Blood pressure Cholesterol levels It's just as important to prevent low blood sugar as it is to keep it from going too high. Bouts of low blood sugar can double your risk of getting Alzheimer's disease or other types of dementia. When your thinking is off, you won't be able to handle your diabetes well.


Question: How can you manage your medications for diabetes?

Answer: It can be hard to keep up with your medications while also keeping track of meal planning and other diabetes-related tasks. To stay on top of your day-to-day needs: Make a list of everything you're taking and what it's for. Stick to one pharmacy when you fill your prescriptions, so your records are all together. Store meds in a pill organizer to help you remember whether you've taken your daily dose or not. Use your phone's alarm, a timer, or other device to remind you when it's time to take your dose. Make taking your meds part of your daily routine so it becomes a habit.


Question: How often should I exercise if I have diabetes?

Answer: Make it a goal to do some sort of exercise for 30 minutes a day, 5 or more days a week. Walking is a great way to raise your heart rate and stay healthy. You can also get exercise by: Doing yoga or tai chi Digging and planting in a garden Using resistance bands or light weights Dancing Swimming or doing water aerobics It has ways to tell you something's off.


Question: How is a varicocele diagnosed?

Answer: If yours does cause pain, it might: Switch from dull to sharp Get worse when you stand or exert yourself, especially for a long time Become more intense as the day goes on Go away when you lie on your back You and the doctor may be able to feel the mass easily. If not, the doctor might ask you to stand, take a deep breath, and hold it while you bear down. He'll call this the Valsalva maneuver. It helps him feel enlarged veins. If the exam isn't enough to be sure, he might take an ultrasound of your scrotum. This test uses sound waves to take pictures of the inside of your body.


Question: How does percutaneous embolization help treat varicoceles?

Answer: You might have: Open surgery: The doctor will make a 1-inch cut into your scrotum. He'll use X-rays to guide him to the varicocele and insert a balloon or coil into it through the tube. This blocks the blood flow to the varicocele and shrinks it. You'll have this done with general anesthesia.


Question: When should a girl have her first ob-gyn appointment?

Answer: The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ( ACOG) recommends that girls have their first ob-gyn visit when they're 13 to 15 years old or they become sexually active, whichever comes first. The first visit for teens may just include a talk with the doctor and no exam.


Question: What is the difference between a gynecologist, obstetrician, and an ob-gyn?

Answer: Obstetricians care for women during their pregnancy and just after the baby is born. They also deliver babies. An ob-gyn is trained to do all of these things.


Question: What does an ob-gyn do?

Answer: Your ob-gyn will deal with some of the most important health issues in your life, including birth control, childbirth, and menopause. An ob-gyn can also screen for cancer, treat infections, and perform surgery for pelvic organ or urinary tract problems.


Question: What are some questions my ob-gyn will ask during my visit?

Answer: These questions might get very personal, but your doctor needs to know the answers to care for you properly. Questions can deal with: Your period and any problems with it, such as missed or heavy periods Vaginal discharge Whether you're sexually active and how active you are The number of sexual partners, both that you have now and have had in the past Sexual issues or problems Any sexually transmitted diseases ( STDs) you've had or think you might have Birth control methods Vaccine history Remember that your ob-gyn is your partner in reproductive health.


Question: What are questions that I can ask my ob-gyn ?

Answer: Or you may be reluctant to discuss your most intimate issues with an ob-gyn. It's OK to ask about your periods, sex, or whatever you want to know about your reproductive health. Your ob-gyn should also ask you a lot of questions.


Question: How do I choose an ob-gyn?

Answer: Get a referral from a friend, family member, or your primary care provider. As you're making a decision, consider whether you would prefer a male or female gynecologist. Meet with the ob-gyn before making a decision. Ask about his or her medical experience, certification, and attitude about important reproductive issues, like birth control. Your questions might include: Do you accept my health insurance? At which hospital do you have admitting privileges? What are your office hours? If you are not available when I need to see you, who will cover for you? Make sure you're completely comfortable before becoming a patient.


Question: How should I prepare for my ob-gyn visit?

Answer: Sexual activity could irritate the tissue of the vagina and affect your Pap test results. It's OK to ask about your periods, sex, or whatever you want to know about your reproductive health.


Question: What happens during an ob-gyn visit?

Answer: The nurse will weigh you and take your blood pressure. The doctor will then examine your reproductive organs from the inside. Your ob-gyn will also examine the walls of the vagina and cervix. A Pap test is often done during the pelvic exam. Your ob-gyn will remove a sample of cells from your cervix using a small brush. Those cells will be sent to a lab and checked for cervical cancer, possibly the human papillomavirus ( HPV) and other abnormalities. If you have been sexually active, the doctor might also test you for sexually transmitted diseases ( STDs) like gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV. To test for STDs, the ob-gyn will take a swab of tissue during the pelvic exam and/or check blood tests. Then, the ob-gyn will do an internal bimanual exam by placing one or two gloved fingers in your vagina and the other hand on top of the lower part of your abdomen, to feel your cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries from outside your body. Your ob-gyn should also do a breast exam to check for any lumps or other abnormalities.


Question: How is astrocytoma graded?

Answer: Early symptoms include: Headaches Blurry vision Seizures Memory loss Nausea and vomiting Changes in behavior Like other tumors, astrocytomas are graded on a scale of I to IV, based on how abnormal the cells look and how fast they grow. Grade IV tumors are the most aggressive in their growth. Most astrocytomas in adults are high grade. This means the cells look abnormal and grow quickly.


Question: What are symptoms of astrocytoma?

Answer: As the astrocytoma grows and presses against the brain, it can cause symptoms. They depend partly on where and how big your tumor is. Early symptoms include: Headaches Blurry vision Seizures Memory loss Nausea and vomiting Changes in behavior Like other tumors, astrocytomas are graded on a scale of I to IV, based on how abnormal the cells look and how fast they grow.


Question: What are the different types of astroctoma?

Answer: There are several types of astrocytoma, and some grow faster than others. They are grade III tumors that grow quickly and spread to nearby tissue. Over 50% of astrocytomas are glioblastomas. They form around the pineal gland. Brain stem gliomas are rare in adults. It doesn't happen often, but sometimes gliomas can form in the brain stem, the part that connects to the spinal cord. Pilocytic astrocytomas and subependymal gialt cell astrocytomas are more common in children and considered grade I. Surgery may be enough to cure grade 1 tumors.


Question: How effective are bedwetting alarms?

Answer: Bedwetting Alarms Bedwetting alarms have become the mainstay of treatment. Up to 70%-90% of children stop bedwetting after using these alarms for 4-6 months.


Question: How long does it take for a bed alarm to work?

Answer: For this to be productive, the child must locate the bathroom on his or her own and the child needs to be gradually conditioned to awaken easily with sound only. The child should use the alarm for a few weeks or even months before considering it a failure. Alarms along with behavior modifications are often tried first before using medication.


Question: What should you look for in a daycare center's handwashing policy?

Answer: How often do employees wash hands? The ideal center should require employees to wash their hands as often as a doctor does -- in between touching every child. If your child-care center doesn't have a sink in every room, look for bottles of hand sanitizer. If employees have to leave the room to clean their hands, they may be less likely to do it.


Question: Should sick children stay home from daycare?

Answer: According to joint recommendations by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American Public Health Association, and the National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care and Early Education, a child should temporarily be kept out of daycare for any of the following: A fever above 101 ° F (checked orally) accompanied by behavior change or other symptoms (sore throat, rash, vomiting, diarrhea, etc.) Diarrhea that can't be contained in a diaper or that makes a toilet-trained child incontinent Vomiting more than two times in a 24-hour period Some centers may be more or less lenient than others.


Question: How many people die from prostate cancer?

Answer: Only 1 in 36 men, though, actually dies from prostate cancer. That's because most prostate cancers are diagnosed in older men in whom the disease is more likely to be slow-growing and non-aggressive. The majority of these men eventually pass away from heart disease, stroke, or other causes -- not their prostate cancer.


Question: How common is prostate cancer?

Answer: After skin cancer, prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men. About 1 in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in his lifetime. And these are just the men who are diagnosed. Among very elderly men dying of other causes, a surprising two-thirds may have prostate cancer that was never diagnosed.


Question: What are the long-term survival rates for prostate cancer?

Answer: According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, for men with local or regional prostate cancer: the relative 10-year survival rate is 98% the relative 15-year survival rate is 96% As with all cancers, doctors use the term stage to describe the characteristics of the primary tumor itself, such as its size and how far prostate cancer has spread when it is found.


Question: How serious is prostate cancer?

Answer: Prostate cancer is frequently slow-growing and slow to spread. For many men, prostate cancer is less serious than their other medical conditions. For these reasons, and possibly because of earlier detection of low-grade prostate cancers, prostate cancer has one of the highest survival rates of any type of cancer.


Question: How are the survival rates for prostate cancer determined?

Answer: Keep in mind that most men are around 70 when diagnosed with prostate cancer. Over, say, five years, many of these men will die from other medical problems unrelated to prostate cancer. To determine the prostate cancer survival rate, these men are subtracted out of the calculations. Counting only the men who are left provides what's called the relative survival rate for prostate cancer. Taking that into consideration, the relative survival rates for most kinds of prostate cancer are actually pretty good. What about longer-term survival rates?


Question: What are the survival rates for prostate cancer?

Answer: Over, say, five years, many of these men will die from other medical problems unrelated to prostate cancer. Almost 100% of men who have local or regional prostate cancer will survive more than five years after diagnosis. For men with distant spread (metastasis) of prostate cancer, about one-third will survive for five years after diagnosis. As we've mentioned, in terms of survival rates, men with prostate cancer can be divided into two groups: Men with prostate cancer that is localized to the prostate or just nearby. Men whose prostate cancer has spread to distant areas, like their bones. Fewer of these men -- about one-third -- will survive their prostate cancer for more than five years.


Question: What are the survival rates for prostate cancer, according to staging?

Answer: As cancer diagnoses go, prostate cancer is often a less serious one. And these are just the men who are diagnosed. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, for men with local or regional prostate cancer: the relative 10-year survival rate is 98% the relative 15-year survival rate is 96% As with all cancers, doctors use the term stage to describe the characteristics of the primary tumor itself, such as its size and how far prostate cancer has spread when it is found. As we've mentioned, in terms of survival rates, men with prostate cancer can be divided into two groups: Men with prostate cancer that is localized to the prostate or just nearby. These men have a high long-term survival rate for their prostate cancer. Almost all will survive their prostate cancer for longer than five years -- and well beyond for many men. Men whose prostate cancer has spread to distant areas, like their bones. These men may need more aggressive treatment for their prostate cancer. Fewer of these men -- about one-third -- will survive their prostate cancer for more than five years.


Question: What are some symptoms of genital herpes?

Answer: Genital herpes symptoms also include: Numbness, tingling, or burning in the genital region A burning sensation while urinating or having intercourse Painful urination, difficulty urinating, or a frequent need to urinate Watery blisters in the genital area Many people with recurrent herpes experience warning signals up to 48 hours before an outbreak. These may consist of tingling, itching, or pain at the site of the eruption, or pain running down into the buttocks or to the knees.


Question: What are signs of genital herpes?

Answer: When these blisters burst they leave the tender sores known as ulcers. The first time a person has a herpes outbreak, the ulcers may take two to four weeks to heal. The next outbreaks may not occur for weeks, months, or even later. When they do, they usually are less severe than the first outbreak. Herpes infection doesn't go away, but the outbreaks tend to become less frequent over time. Genital herpes symptoms also include: Numbness, tingling, or burning in the genital region A burning sensation while urinating or having intercourse Painful urination, difficulty urinating, or a frequent need to urinate Watery blisters in the genital area Many people with recurrent herpes experience warning signals up to 48 hours before an outbreak.


Question: How can a doctor diagnose genital herpes?

Answer: A doctor can diagnose genital herpes by looking at the outbreak and taking a sample of tissue or fluid from the sores. There are also blood tests for HSV-1 and HSV-2. Although they can't pinpoint when the infection was acquired or predict when an outbreak is likely to happen again, they are useful for diagnosing the condition if the outbreak is healing or has already healed.


Question: Can lack of sleep cause depression?

Answer: Lack of sleep alone cannot cause depression, but it does play a role. Lack of sleep resulting from another medical illness or the presence of personal problems can intensify depression. Chronic inability to sleep is also an important clue that someone may be depressed.


Question: How can mastoiditis develop?

Answer: When the mastoid cells become infected or inflamed, often as a result of an unresolved middle ear infection (otitis media), mastoiditis can develop. Because so many vital structures pass through the mastoid, infection may spread outside of the mastoid bone and cause serious health complications.


Question: What causes mastoiditis?

Answer: When the mastoid cells become infected or inflamed, often as a result of an unresolved middle ear infection (otitis media), mastoiditis can develop. Because so many vital structures pass through the mastoid, infection may spread outside of the mastoid bone and cause serious health complications.


Question: What are the symptoms of mastoiditis?

Answer: Mastoiditis symptoms may include: Fever, irritability, and lethargy Swelling of the ear lobe Redness and tenderness behind the ear Drainage from the ear Bulging and drooping of the ear Mastoiditis complications may include: Facial paralysis Nausea, vomiting, vertigo (labyrinthitis) Hearing loss Brain abscess or meningitis Vision changes or headaches (blood clots in the brain) Any earache with fever or posterior ear tenderness, redness or swelling should be evaluated by a doctor.


Question: How is mastoiditis diagnosed?

Answer: A sample of the infected ear fluid should be collected for culture.


Question: What complications can happen if you have mastoiditis?

Answer: Mastoiditis symptoms may include: Fever, irritability, and lethargy Swelling of the ear lobe Redness and tenderness behind the ear Drainage from the ear Bulging and drooping of the ear Mastoiditis complications may include: Facial paralysis Nausea, vomiting, vertigo (labyrinthitis) Hearing loss Brain abscess or meningitis Vision changes or headaches (blood clots in the brain) Any earache with fever or posterior ear tenderness, redness or swelling should be evaluated by a doctor.


Question: What is mastoiditis?

Answer: The mastoid bone, which is full of these air cells, is part of the temporal bone of the skull.


Question: How is mastoiditis treated?

Answer: Antibiotic therapy is the mainstay of treatment for both acute and chronic mastoiditis. If you or your child is diagnosed with acute mastoiditis, you may be put in the hospital to receive treatment and care by an otolaryngologist, a doctor who specializes in ear, nose, and throat disorders. Antibiotics will be given through an IV (intravenous line) to treat the infection.


Question: When do you need surgery for mastoiditis?

Answer: If the symptoms don't quickly improve on IV antibiotics, or complications, like an abscess or bone erosion are present, surgery to remove the infected mastoid bone may be recommended. This is called a mastoidectomy.


Question: Can adults get mastoiditis?

Answer: Acute mastoiditis typically affects children, but adults can also be affected.


Question: What is a myringotomy for mastoiditis?

Answer: Surgery may also be needed to drain the fluid from the middle ear, called a myringotomy. During a myringotomy, the doctor makes a small hole in the eardrum to drain the fluid and relieve pressure from the middle ear. A small tube may be inserted into the middle ear to to keep the hole from closing so as to allow for continued drainage. Typically, the tube will fall out on its own after six to 12 months.


Question: What is chronic mastoiditis?

Answer: Bacteria from the middle ear can travel into the air cells of the mastoid bone.


Question: How is acute mastoiditis treated?

Answer: If you or your child is diagnosed with acute mastoiditis, you may be put in the hospital to receive treatment and care by an otolaryngologist, a doctor who specializes in ear, nose, and throat disorders. Antibiotics will be given through an IV (intravenous line) to treat the infection.


Question: What are symptoms of mastoiditis?

Answer: Mastoiditis symptoms may include: Fever, irritability, and lethargy Swelling of the ear lobe Redness and tenderness behind the ear Drainage from the ear Bulging and drooping of the ear Mastoiditis complications may include: Facial paralysis Nausea, vomiting, vertigo (labyrinthitis) Hearing loss Brain abscess or meningitis Vision changes or headaches (blood clots in the brain) Any earache with fever or posterior ear tenderness, redness or swelling should be evaluated by a doctor.


Question: How is severe mastoiditis treated?

Answer: Surgery may also be needed to drain the fluid from the middle ear, called a myringotomy.


Question: How does mastoiditis develop?

Answer: As mentioned above, mastoiditis most often develops as a result of a middle ear infection. Bacteria from the middle ear can travel into the air cells of the mastoid bone. Less commonly, a growing collection of skin cells called a cholesteatoma, may block drainage of the ear, leading to mastoiditis.


Question: When should you see your doctor if you have mastoiditis?

Answer: If you or your child is diagnosed with acute mastoiditis, you may be put in the hospital to receive treatment and care by an otolaryngologist, a doctor who specializes in ear, nose, and throat disorders. If left untreated, mastoiditis can cause serious, even life-threatening, health complications, including hearing loss, blood clot, meningitis, or a brain abscess.


Question: What can happen if mastoiditis is left untreated?

Answer: Mastoiditis symptoms may include: Fever, irritability, and lethargy Swelling of the ear lobe Redness and tenderness behind the ear Drainage from the ear Bulging and drooping of the ear Mastoiditis complications may include: Facial paralysis Nausea, vomiting, vertigo (labyrinthitis) Hearing loss Brain abscess or meningitis Vision changes or headaches (blood clots in the brain) Any earache with fever or posterior ear tenderness, redness or swelling should be evaluated by a doctor. But with early and appropriate antibiotic treatment and drainage, these complications can usually be avoided and you can recover completely. If you have an earache, discharge or trouble hearing, see your doctor. He will decide if you need antibiotics to help prevent mastoiditis and other serious health complications.


Question: How is surgery done to treat mastoiditis?

Answer: Surgery may also be needed to drain the fluid from the middle ear, called a myringotomy. During a myringotomy, the doctor makes a small hole in the eardrum to drain the fluid and relieve pressure from the middle ear. A small tube may be inserted into the middle ear to to keep the hole from closing so as to allow for continued drainage. This is called a mastoidectomy.


Question: How is chronic mastoiditis treated?

Answer: If you or your child is diagnosed with acute mastoiditis, you may be put in the hospital to receive treatment and care by an otolaryngologist, a doctor who specializes in ear, nose, and throat disorders. He will decide if you need antibiotics to help prevent mastoiditis and other serious health complications.


Question: What tests are used for mastoiditis?

Answer: If complicated, severe or chronic mastoiditis is suspected, you will be referred for a CT scan to image the mastoid area. If you have an earache, discharge or trouble hearing, see your doctor.


Question: What side effects of fibrates (triglyceride medicines) should make you call your doctor?

Answer: Common side effects include: Back pain Diarrhea or vomiting Gas or bloating Headache Nausea Mild stomach pain Call your doctor right away if you have any of these more severe symptoms: Chest pain or irregular heartbeat Dark-colored urine, pain or burning when you urinate, or decreased urination Muscle aches, cramps, pain, or weakness Severe stomach pain Yellow skin and eyes (jaundice) Never switch the type of niacin you take without talking to your doctor.


Question: When should you tell your doctor about side effects from prescription omega-3s to treat triglycerides?

Answer: Tell your doctor if you have symptoms that bother you or don't go away. Common side effects include: Burping Joint pain Strange taste in your mouth Upset stomach Call your doctor right away if you have any of these more severe symptoms: Chest pain Fever, chills, body aches, or flu symptoms Irregular heartbeat Lifestyle changes are the best way to address high triglycerides, but sometimes doctors do prescribe medications.


Question: Can I take antiviral drugs if I have HIV/AIDS?

Answer: Keep an eye out for these symptoms: Fever (usually high) Severe aches and pains in the joints and muscles and around the eyes Weakness Warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes Headache Dry cough Sore throat and runny nose The CDC says people with HIV or AIDS who are exposed to the flu should get antiviral drugs for 7 days so they don't develop the illness. If you do get it, take antivirals within the first 2 days of getting sick. They're available by prescription from your doctor. It's OK to take these medications with the drugs you take to manage HIV.


Question: When should I get the flu shot if I have HIV/AIDS?

Answer: By October or November is the ideal time to be vaccinated, but you can get it as late as December. The flu shot starts to work about 2 weeks after you get it. That's why you need to get it early in the fall. The longer you go without it, the more likely you are to get the flu or have complications.


Question: Should I get a flu shot every year if I have HIV/AIDS?

Answer: Flu viruses change each year, so the shot you get this year may not protect you from future strains. Also, your immunity to the virus declines over time. Getting an annual shot helps boost protection.


Question: What are symptoms of the flu in people with HIV/AIDS?

Answer: Keep an eye out for these symptoms: Fever (usually high) Severe aches and pains in the joints and muscles and around the eyes Weakness Warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes Headache Dry cough Sore throat and runny nose The CDC says people with HIV or AIDS who are exposed to the flu should get antiviral drugs for 7 days so they don't develop the illness.


Question: When should I call my doctor if I feel sick and have HIV/AIDS?

Answer: When you have HIV or AIDS, you have to take your health seriously. Talk to your doctors at the first sign of flu or other illness.


Question: How can I prevent flu complications if I have HIV/AIDS?

Answer: Good hygiene can lower your chances of getting a viral or bacterial infection. Tell family members and friends to cover their mouths when they cough, wash their hands frequently, and avoid rubbing their eyes after touching surfaces. You'll also want to avoid crowds during flu season. To avoid extra stress on your immune system, get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid stress. Stay away from cigarette smoke and other things that pollute the air.


Question: Why is the flu worse for people with HIV/AIDS?

Answer: HIV kills or damages cells in your body's immune system, making it more difficult to fight infections like the flu virus. This means you're more likely to get complications like pneumonia from the flu. And that can raise the odds that you'll wind up in the hospital with heart- and lung-related problems. Flu can also be fatal.


Question: Is there anything I can do to avoid complications of the flu if I have HIV or AIDS?

Answer: And you know that complications like pneumonia can put added stress on a weakened immune system. You just need to know all you can about the flu and to take the easy steps to prevent it. To avoid extra stress on your immune system, get plenty of sleep, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoid stress. It's OK to take these medications with the drugs you take to manage HIV.


Question: What is the best way for people with HIV/AIDS to prevent the flu?

Answer: The vaccine potentially has traces of egg protein in it but it is safe for those with egg allergies. Those who have severe allergies to eggs should receive it from an a doctor who is used to treating severe allergic reactions. The CDC says to get the flu shot instead of the nasal spray version ( Flu Mist). The flu shot uses a dead flu virus. Flu Mist contains a live, weakened flu virus and is only approved for use in healthy people ages 2 to 49. It should not be used if you are severely allergic to the flu vaccine or have a weakened immune system. The CDC says anyone at high risk for pneumonia, including those with HIV/ AIDS, should get the pneumonia vaccine.


Question: Should I get a pneumonia vaccine if I have HIV/AIDs?

Answer: This means you're more likely to get complications like pneumonia from the flu. The pneumonia vaccine prevents one specific type of pneumonia that's caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae bacteria. This is the most common kind in the U. S. outside of hospitals and institutions. The CDC says anyone at high risk for pneumonia, including those with HIV/ AIDS, should get the pneumonia vaccine. There are actually two pneumoncoccal vaccines. Both are recommended for persons with HIV/ AIDS, but they cannot be given at the same time. Talk to your doctor about your health situation and how best to receive these vaccines.


Question: How can premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or menopause cause anger?

Answer: Some men might joke about it, but the agitation felt during a woman's period is real. With premenstrual dysphoric disorder ( PMDD), a more intense but less frequent form of PMS, anger can be extreme. Levels of estrogen and progesterone (hormones) fall the week before a woman's period. This in turn can affect her serotonin levels. The drop in hormones is also the reason for the moodiness associated with menopause.


Question: How can epilepsy cause anger?

Answer: It can cause uncontrollable shaking and even loss of consciousness. That can be scary and confusing for someone. It's rare, but sometimes people lash out right after having a seizure. People with epilepsy are also more likely to feel self-conscious, depressed, and anxious. Sometimes anti-seizure medicines can cause behavior changes or outbursts, particularly in kids.


Question: How can a stroke cause anger?

Answer: A stroke can physically damage the brain. And if it strikes the area responsible for emotions, this can lead to changes in behavior like a rise in irritability. This new shift is typical after such a life-changing scare.


Question: What are useful tips to manage anger caused by medical conditions?

Answer: Here are some other useful tips: Try deep breathing and positive self-talk. Talk through your feelings and seek the support of others. Keep a log of your angry thoughts. Learn to assert yourself in healthy, productive ways. Look for the humor in situations.


Question: How can depression cause anger?

Answer: Irritability often goes along with despair. Depressed men in particular are more likely to have violent explosions. It's often described as âanger turned inward,â but it can be turned outward, too. This mood disorder is treatable with medication and therapy.


Question: How can liver failure cause anger?

Answer: Left untreated, inflammation, the early stages of diseases like cirrhosis and hepatitis, can damage the liver. When this organ fails, it stops removing toxic substances from the body. The buildup of poisons can lead to hepatic encephalopathy, a brain disorder that causes personality changes and loss of control.


Question: How can Alzheimerâs cause anger?

Answer: Anger is a common symptom, so caregivers should take a step back and look for the immediate cause, whether it's physical discomfort or trouble communicating. It's rare, but sometimes people lash out right after having a seizure. If the disease attacks the frontal lobe of the brain, which is tied to personality, it can cause aggravation and fury.


Question: How can cholesterol medicine cause anger?

Answer: Benzodiazepines are widely prescribed for a number of anxiety conditions such as panic disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder ( PTSD), and obsessive-compulsive disorder ( OCD). But some studies show that these drugs are connected to aggression as well. Experts say that low cholesterol also lowers levels of serotonin (your happiness hormone), which can lead to a short temper and depression.


Question: How can diabetes cause anger?

Answer: You could have some emotions you need to sort through, or there could be a medical reason. People might resent having to change their lifestyle. They might also be scared about how it will affect their future. With diabetes, there is a link between lower-than-normal blood sugar numbers and flying off the handle. This is because the hormones used to control your glucose (sugar) levels are the same ones used to regulate your stress. Keeping your glucose in check will help.


Question: How can anxiety drugs or sleeping pills cause anger?

Answer: A number of conditions and some medical treatments have rage as a side effect. Doctors also may use them treat insomnia. Fits of anger are a rare but harmful side effect of these drugs, especially for those with an already aggressive personality.


Question: What can happen if I don't treat an abscessed tooth?

Answer: Most often that results from:  A deep cavity or tooth decay Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease A cracked tooth If you don't treat the infection, it can kill the pulp and lead to an abscess. There are two common types: A periapical abscess forms at the tip of your tooth's root. A periodontal abscess affects the bone next to your tooth. You can get more than one abscess. Or one abscess can travel through the bone and show up in several spots.


Question: Can I prevent an abscessed tooth?

Answer: Most often that results from:  A deep cavity or tooth decay Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease A cracked tooth If you don't treat the infection, it can kill the pulp and lead to an abscess. Take these simple steps to keep your teeth and gums healthy: Get regular dental checkups and teeth cleanings. Floss daily to clean hard-to-reach spots between your teeth and gums. Limit sugary foods and drinks. Sweets and sodas lead to cavities, which can cause an abscess. Cut down on snacks between meals.


Question: What causes an abscessed tooth?

Answer: Sometimes it gets infected. Most often that results from:  A deep cavity or tooth decay Gum disease, also known as periodontal disease A cracked tooth If you don't treat the infection, it can kill the pulp and lead to an abscess. The goal is to get rid of the infection.


Question: How is an abscessed tooth diagnosed?

Answer: That means the pus pocket has found somewhere to drain. If you don't have symptoms, your dentist could spot an abscess through X-rays at a routine exam. He may tap on your tooth to see if it hurts. If he can't diagnose the abscess on his own, he'll probably send you to an endodontist, who's specially trained to work on abscessed teeth. This dentist can tell for sure if you have an abscess and treat it if you do. Root canal: You may have heard about this common way to treat an abscess.


Question: What is an abscessed tooth?

Answer: Anyone, from children to the elderly, can get one. !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(); }); } If you have one, it won't get better on its own. You need treatment from a dentist or endodontist -- a specialist who can help save your tooth. If you don't treat it, the infection can spread beyond your jaw to your neck, head, or other body parts. That liquid is pus.


Question: What do breast cancer hormone receptor test results mean?

Answer: In the lab report, you may see one of these: A simple "positive" or "negative" description. If it says âpositive,â that means your cancer is sensitive to hormones. If it says ânegative,â it's not. The âpositiveâ and ânegativeâ don't mean better or worse -- it's just about the tumor. A percentage of cells out of 100 that have hormone receptors. A score of 0% means no cells have receptors. 100% means all cells have them. An " Allred score" between 0 and 8. This tells how many cells are HR-positive as well as their "intensity" (how well they show up in the lab tests). Labs use different cutoff points to tell if the cancer is HR-positive. Ask your doctor to explain what they mean for you.


Question: What is hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer?

Answer: Compared with other types of breast cancer, hormone-receptor-positive ones, also called HR-positive, tend to: Grow more slowly Respond better to hormone therapy Have a better outlook (prognosis) In advanced cancer, your doctor will take a small part of the cancer that has spread to your lymph nodes, liver, or other areas of your body.


Question: What tests are done for breast cancer hormone receptors?

Answer: Compared with other types of breast cancer, hormone-receptor-positive ones, also called HR-positive, tend to: Grow more slowly Respond better to hormone therapy Have a better outlook (prognosis) In advanced cancer, your doctor will take a small part of the cancer that has spread to your lymph nodes, liver, or other areas of your body. She may use a very fine needle or get the tissue during surgery. Lab tests will show if the disease has hormone receptors. If you're taking hormones, you may need to stop before getting the test.


Question: How will your doctor know if you have breast cancer hormone receptors?

Answer: If it does, she may call it "hormone-receptor positive," â ER-positive,â or â PR-positive.â For advanced cases, your doctor may want to repeat these tests after a while to see if the disease has changed. It may respond differently to hormones than before. The results will help your doctor find the best treatment at any stage. Lab tests will show if the disease has hormone receptors.


Question: How can hormones play a role in breast cancer?

Answer: These tumors have a sort of biological on-off switch called a hormone receptor. Estrogen and progesterone can flip these switches "on" and quicken the cancer cells' growth. If you have an HR-positive breast cancer, your doctor may prescribe drugs that target certain hormones your body makes. If your cancer is only â ER-positiveâ (sensitive to estrogen) or only â PR-positiveâ (sensitive to progesterone) -- not both -- it may still respond to hormone treatments.


Question: How can your breast cancer hormone receptor test results affect your treatment?

Answer: A percentage of cells out of 100 that have hormone receptors. Some lower the amount of those hormones that your body makes. Others block the effects of hormones in breast tissue or in other places where the cancer may have spread. In general, the more receptors you have and the greater their intensity, the more likely it is that hormone treatments will work. If your cancer is only â ER-positiveâ (sensitive to estrogen) or only â PR-positiveâ (sensitive to progesterone) -- not both -- it may still respond to hormone treatments. If your disease is both ER-negative and PR-negative, hormone therapy is unlikely to work. Another type of treatment may work better. Your doctor will find the best options with the fewest side effects and talk with you about the benefits and risks of each.


Question: What should I know about piriformis syndrome?

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(); }); } Piriformis syndrome is an uncommon neuromuscular disorder that is caused when the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve. The piriformis muscle is a flat, band-like muscle located in the buttocks near the top of the hip joint. This muscle is important in lower body movement because it stabilizes the hip joint and lifts and rotates the thigh away from the body. This enables us to walk, shift our weight from one foot to another, and maintain balance. It is also used in sports that involve lifting and rotating the thighs -- in short, in almost every motion of the hips and legs. The sciatic nerve is a thick and long nerve in the body. It passes alongside or goes through the piriformis muscle, goes down the back of the leg, and eventually branches off into smaller nerves that end in the feet. Nerve compression can be caused by spasm of the piriformis muscle.


Question: How can I prevent piriformis syndrome?

Answer: Since piriformis syndrome is usually caused by sports or movement that repeatedly stresses the piriformis muscle, such as running or lunging, prevention is often related to good form. Avoid running or exercising on hills or uneven surfaces. Warm up properly before activity and increase intensity gradually. Use good posture while running, walking, or exercising. If pain occurs, stop the activity and rest until pain subsides. See a health care provider as needed.


Question: How is piriformis syndrome diagnosed?

Answer: In many cases, there is a history of trauma to the area, repetitive, vigorous activity such as long-distance running, or prolonged sitting. Diagnosis of piriformis syndrome is made by the patient's report of symptoms and by physical exam using a variety of movements to elicit pain to the piriformis muscle. In some cases, a contracted or tender piriformis muscle can be found on physical exam. Because symptoms can be similar in other conditions, radiologic tests such as MRIs may be required to rule out other causes of sciatic nerve compression, such as a herniated disc.


Question: How is piriformis syndrome treated?

Answer: If pain is caused by sitting or certain activities, try to avoid positions that trigger pain. Rest, ice, and heat may help relieve symptoms. A doctor or physical therapist can suggest a program of exercises and stretches to help reduce sciatic nerve compression. Osteopathic manipulative treatment has been used to help relieve pain and increase range of motion. Some health care providers may recommend anti-inflammatory medications, muscle relaxants, or injections with a corticosteroid or anesthetic. Other therapies such as iontophoresis, which uses a mild electric current, and injection with botulinum toxin (botox) have been tried by some doctors. Using the paralytic properties of the botulinum toxin, botox injections is thought by some to relieve muscle tightness and sciatic nerve compression to minimize pain. Surgery may be recommended as a last resort.


Question: What are the signs and symptoms of piriformis syndrome?

Answer: The piriformis muscle is a flat, band-like muscle located in the buttocks near the top of the hip joint. Pain can be severe and extend down the length of the sciatic nerve (called sciatica). The pain is due to the piriformis muscle compressing the sciatic nerve, such as while sitting on a car seat or running. Pain may also be triggered while climbing stairs, applying firm pressure directly over the piriformis muscle, or sitting for long periods of time. Most cases of sciatica, however, are not due to piriformis syndrome.


Question: What causes sickle cell disease (SCD)?

Answer: A problem in the hemoglobin-beta gene found on chromosome 11. The defect forms abnormal hemoglobin molecules. Both your parents need to pass the abnormal hemoglobin gene on to you in order for you to develop the disease. If both your parents carry the defective gene, you have a 1 in 4 chance of inheriting the disease and becoming sick with it.


Question: What is the most severe type of sickle cell disease (SCD)?

Answer: Hemoglobin SS, also called sickle cell anemia, is usually the most severe type of this disorder.


Question: What are rare types of sickle cell disease (SCD)?

Answer: Other common forms include: Hemoglobin SC (usually mild) Hemoglobin SÎ² thalassemia Rare types are: Hemoglobin SD Hemoglobin SE Hemoglobin SO In the U. S., newborn screening programs require that all babies are tested for sickle cell disease shortly after birth.


Question: When are babies screened for sickle cell disease (SCD)?

Answer: Other common forms include: Hemoglobin SC (usually mild) Hemoglobin SÎ² thalassemia Rare types are: Hemoglobin SD Hemoglobin SE Hemoglobin SO In the U. S., newborn screening programs require that all babies are tested for sickle cell disease shortly after birth.


Question: How many people in the United States have sickle cell disease (SCD)?

Answer: About 100,000 people in the United States have sickle cell disease. Most of them are African- Americans.


Question: What is sickle cell disease (SCD)?

Answer: Sickle cell disease ( SCD) is the most common inherited blood disorder. It forms rods that clump together. Hemoglobin SS, also called sickle cell anemia, is usually the most severe type of this disorder.


Question: How can sickle cell disease (SCD) affect red blood cells?

Answer: The disease gets its name because when you have SCD, your red blood cells look like a sickle, which is a C-shaped farm tool. Red blood cells contain a molecule called hemoglobin, which carries oxygen throughout the body. In a healthy person, hemoglobin is smooth, round, and flexible. That allows red blood cells to glide easily through your bloodstream. But if you have SCD, the hemoglobin's shape is abnormal. It's dangerous, and can cause extreme pain, anemia, and other symptoms.


Question: What are some signs of a broken nose (nasal fracture)?

Answer: Here's what you can expect to experience with the main types of facial fractures: Broken nose (nasal fracture) Pain Swelling Nosebleeds Bruising around the nose Difficulty breathing Forehead fracture (frontal bone) The forehead may appear inverted (pushed inward) Pain around the sinuses Injuries to the eyes Broken cheekbone/upper jaw (zygomatic maxillary fracture) Flatness of the cheek Altered sensation underneath the eye on the affected side Problems with eyesight Pain with jaw movement Eye socket (orbital) fracture This involves the bones of the eye socket.


Question: What are the signs of a broken jaw?

Answer: A black eye Redness or bleeding in the white of the eye Blurry or decreased vision Numbness in the forehead, eyelids, cheek, or upper lip/teeth Swelling of the cheek or forehead Broken jaw Pain Bruising, swelling, or tenderness along the jaw or below the ear Inability to bring the teeth together properly (malocclusion) Bruising under the tongue (almost always indicates a jaw fracture) Missing or loose teeth Numbness in the lower lip or chin Midface (maxillary) fracture: The main symptom is swelling or deformity on the face.


Question: How are facial fractures diagnosed?

Answer: Your doctor will examine your face for any signs of swelling and pain. He'll also check for any changes in mobility (whether you're able to move parts of your face). You'll probably have X-rays taken. Most fractures will show up clearly on these tests.


Question: What is the treatment for facial fractures?

Answer: This depends on your specific injury, how bad it is, and whether you have any other problems at the time. Your doctor's goal will be to put the bones back into their natural position. This is called âreducingâ the fracture. He'll also want to keep the bones in place to prevent further injury. Doctors call this âfixingâ the fracture. You may need surgery. Or, your doctor may use plates, screws, wires, or other devices to repair your injury. He may also prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection.


Question: When should I seek medical care for a facial fracture?

Answer: If you have a facial injury, see your doctor as soon as possible. Some facial fractures can be life-threatening. Others can cause problems with your respiratory system, airway passages, central nervous system, or vision that can't be reversed.


Question: What are some signs of a forehead fracture (frontal bone)?

Answer: Here's what you can expect to experience with the main types of facial fractures: Broken nose (nasal fracture) Pain Swelling Nosebleeds Bruising around the nose Difficulty breathing Forehead fracture (frontal bone) The forehead may appear inverted (pushed inward) Pain around the sinuses Injuries to the eyes Broken cheekbone/upper jaw (zygomatic maxillary fracture) Flatness of the cheek Altered sensation underneath the eye on the affected side Problems with eyesight Pain with jaw movement Eye socket (orbital) fracture This involves the bones of the eye socket.


Question: What are the signs of midface (maxillary) fracture?

Answer: A black eye Redness or bleeding in the white of the eye Blurry or decreased vision Numbness in the forehead, eyelids, cheek, or upper lip/teeth Swelling of the cheek or forehead Broken jaw Pain Bruising, swelling, or tenderness along the jaw or below the ear Inability to bring the teeth together properly (malocclusion) Bruising under the tongue (almost always indicates a jaw fracture) Missing or loose teeth Numbness in the lower lip or chin Midface (maxillary) fracture: The main symptom is swelling or deformity on the face.


Question: What are the advantages of douching?

Answer: Some women say douching makes them feel cleaner. There is, though, very little scientific evidence of benefit from douching.


Question: Should you douche?

Answer: According to health experts, including those at the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ( ACOG), you should avoid douching. Having some vaginal odor is normal. However, if you notice a very strong odor, it could be a sign of infection. The acidity of the vagina will naturally control bacteria, and simply washing the vagina with warm water and mild soap is enough to keep clean.


Question: How common is vaginal douching and why do women use them?

Answer: Besides making themselves feel fresher, women say they douche to get rid of unpleasant odors, wash away menstrual blood after their period, avoid getting sexually transmitted diseases, and prevent a pregnancy after intercourse. Douches that are sold in drugstores and supermarkets contain antiseptics and fragrances.


Question: What is douching?

Answer: Higher rates are seen in teens and African- American and Hispanic women. A douche comes in a bottle or bag and is sprayed through a tube upward into the vagina. The acidity of the vagina will naturally control bacteria, and simply washing the vagina with warm water and mild soap is enough to keep clean.


Question: If I have syphilis, should I stop having sex?

Answer: Persons with syphilis must notify their sex partners so that they also can be tested and receive treatment. Talking with your health care provider will help you determine if you need to get re-tested for syphilis after you have received treatment.


Question: Is there a link between syphilis and HIV?

Answer: In fact, there is a two- to five-fold increased risk of acquiring HIV infection when syphilis is present. The genital sores (ulcers) caused by syphilis make it easier to transmit and acquire HIV infection sexually.


Question: What are symptoms of syphilis in primary stage?

Answer: Primary Stage The primary stage of syphilis is usually marked by the appearance of a single sore, but there may be multiple sores. The sore begins as a pimple, but quickly ulcerates to form a firm, round, small, and painless ulcer. If it is inside the vagina or anus, it is easy to miss this stage. The sore generally lasts three to six weeks, and it heals with or without treatment. At this stage, people are highly infectious.


Question: When can the John Cunningham virus become dangerous?

Answer: It doesn't cause problems for most people, but it can be dangerous if you have a weak immune system. There's no known way to keep yourself from getting it.


Question: How can I be tested for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy because of the John Cunningham virus?

Answer: If your doctor thinks you might have PML, you'll need an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). This uses powerful magnets and radio waves to make detailed images and look for certain patterns in your brain tissue. Next, your doctor may want to do a spinal tap. He'll use a needle to take spinal fluid from your lower back. If the JC virus is in this fluid, you have PML. If not, you may need a biopsy or other tests to find out for sure.


Question: How is progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) linked to multiple sclerosis (MS) and Crohn's disease?

Answer: PML has been linked to the drug natalizumab ( Tysabri), used to treat MS and Crohn's disease. People with MS or Crohn's disease may be tested for the JC virus before they start this medication or others like it. If you're a carrier of the virus, you might still be able to take the drugs, but discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. People with MS and Crohn's disease who develop PML often have to stop taking the drugs. They also may have a procedure called plasma exchange to clear out the medication.


Question: What is the John Cunningham virus?

Answer: The JC virus, or John Cunningham virus, is a common germ. More than half of all adults have been exposed to it.


Question: If I have a weak immune system, how can the John Cunningham virus affect me?

Answer: It doesn't cause problems for most people, but it can be dangerous if you have a weak immune system.


Question: Can certain HIV drugs prevent the John Cunningham virus from causing progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy?

Answer: Certain HIV drugs may make your immune system stronger and help prevent the JC virus from causing PML. These drugs have become more common, so the number of people with HIV/ AIDS who have PML has been going down.


Question: How is progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) treated?

Answer: Scientists are studying several drugs for PML, but none has been approved by the FDA. However, treatments that make your immune system stronger can be used to help your body fight the infection.


Question: What does progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) affect?

Answer: It doesn't cause problems for most people, but it can be dangerous if you have a weak immune system.


Question: How can I be tested for the John Cunningham virus?

Answer: They can be different depending on the area of your brain that's affected, but the most common signs are: Clumsiness Weakness that gets worse Changes in personality Trouble speaking Vision problems Tests can detect if you carry the JC virus. Your doctor might look at a sample of your tissue under a microscope or check your blood for signs that your body is fighting the infection.


Question: How can people with HIV prevent progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)?

Answer: Certain HIV drugs may make your immune system stronger and help prevent the JC virus from causing PML. These drugs have become more common, so the number of people with HIV/ AIDS who have PML has been going down.


Question: Who is most at risk for progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML)?

Answer: Those with Hodgkin's disease, leukemia, or lymphoma are also at risk, as are people who take certain immune-suppressing drugs because of multiple sclerosis ( MS), rheumatoid arthritis, or organ transplants.


Question: What is the JC virus?

Answer: The JC virus, or John Cunningham virus, is a common germ. It doesn't cause problems for most people, but it can be dangerous if you have a weak immune system. There's no known way to keep yourself from getting it. A doctor found it in the brain of a man with Hodgkin's lymphoma and named the virus after him. Experts don't know how it's spread, but it's thought that many people pick it up as kids through food or water that has the virus in it. It settles in your urinary tract, bone marrow, tonsils, or brain. It can stay there for years, and most people never know they have it.


Question: What is the history of the John Cunningham virus?

Answer: If the JC virus is in this fluid, you have PML. If you're a carrier of the virus, you might still be able to take the drugs, but discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.


Question: What happens when something triggers psoriasis?

Answer: Once something triggers psoriasis, it becomes a long-lasting condition. That means most people have it for the rest of their lives, although they may be able to control it with medication and other treatment.


Question: Does physical contact cause psoriasis?

Answer: But now we know that you cannot catch the condition by brushing up against someone who has it. You also can't get it from kissing, having sex, or swimming in the same water.


Question: What is plaque psoriasis?

Answer: There are several different kinds of the disease, but the most common is plaque psoriasis. Lesions often appear on the knees, elbows, or scalp, although they can be anywhere on the body. These patches can feel swollen, itchy, and sore, and may crack and bleed. Other types of the condition may cause small red spots, pus-filled bumps, or red scaling patches all over.


Question: Are there different kinds of psoriasis?

Answer: There are several different kinds of the disease, but the most common is plaque psoriasis. Lesions often appear on the knees, elbows, or scalp, although they can be anywhere on the body. These patches can feel swollen, itchy, and sore, and may crack and bleed. Other types of the condition may cause small red spots, pus-filled bumps, or red scaling patches all over.


Question: Should I talk openly about my psoriasis?

Answer: So if someone in your family has the condition, you may have the same genes and be more likely to get it yourself. And if you know people who have it, make sure they know that their condition doesn't affect your opinion of them or make you not want to be around them.


Question: What can you do to inform others about psoriasis?

Answer: So if someone in your family has the condition, you may have the same genes and be more likely to get it yourself. And if you know people who have it, make sure they know that their condition doesn't affect your opinion of them or make you not want to be around them.


Question: Can you get psoriasis from physical contact?

Answer: But rest easy: It's not contagious. You cannot catch the disease by touching someone who has it. You also can't get it from kissing, having sex, or swimming in the same water. People get psoriasis because of their genes, not because of bad hygiene, their diet or lifestyle, or any other habits. They didn't get it from someone else, and they cannot infect others. Even so, there's a lot of stigma around the condition, which can be hard for people who have it. They might feel uncomfortable when people stare at their lesions or avoid touching them, and they may try to hide their outbreaks under long clothing.


Question: What are some examples of natural birth control?

Answer: For comparison, those same odds are: 18% if you use only the male condom 12% with a diaphragm 9% if you take birth control pills or use a contraceptive patch or vaginal ring Less than 1% if you get an implant or use an IUD Examples include the rhythm method, the standard-days method, checking your cervical mucus, and using your basal body temperature.


Question: What are the odds of getting pregnant if you use natural birth control method?

Answer: The odds of getting pregnant can be as high as 24% unless you use your fertility awareness method perfectly every time. For comparison, those same odds are: 18% if you use only the male condom 12% with a diaphragm 9% if you take birth control pills or use a contraceptive patch or vaginal ring Less than 1% if you get an implant or use an IUD Examples include the rhythm method, the standard-days method, checking your cervical mucus, and using your basal body temperature.


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

Answer: Examples of ARBs include: Irbesartan ( Avapro) Losartan ( Cozaar) Telmisartan ( Micardis) Valsartan ( Diovan) This type of heart disease medicine can help in these ways: Makes your heart beat more slowly Makes the heart beat with less force Lowers your blood pressure Helps prevent future heart attacks if you have already had one Relieves chest pain Helps your heart beat more steadily How do beta-blockers accomplish all this?


Question: How do diuretics work in treating heart disease?

Answer: Diuretics can help your heart in these ways: Lower blood pressure Reduce swelling from extra fluid buildup throughout your body Relieve the heart's workload Here's how they work: Diuretics help your kidneys remove sodium and water from the body. One of the results is that you have less blood volume circulating in your blood vessels. Less blood volume in the vessels leads to lower blood pressure.


Question: What factors can help determine which medications for heart disease may be best for you?

Answer: That depends on factors such as these: The causes of your heart disease How your body responds to different drugs Any other health problems you might have Other medications you are taking It may take some trial-and-error testing to find the combination of heart disease medicine that works best for you. Many people need more than one type of drug in order to get the best results. Some of these medications are combined into one pill.


Question: What are examples of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors that can help with treating heart disease?

Answer: Examples of ACE inhibitors include: Benazapril ( Lotensin) Captopril Enalapril ( Vasotec) Lisinopril ( Prinivil, Zestril) Ramipril ( Altace) This type of heart disease medicine can have these effects: Lower your blood pressure Ease the work of your heart ARBs block the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that makes blood vessels tighten.


Question: What are effects of calcium channel blockers (CCBs) on heart disease?

Answer: CCBs can have these effects: Lower your blood pressure Reduce chest pain (angina) Help lower heart rate How do calcium channel blockers accomplish this?


Question: How can digitalis drugs help with treating heart disease?

Answer: This type of heart disease medicine can be helpful in these cases: If you have heart failure If you have an irregular heartbeat, especially atrial fibrillation Digitalis drugs work by making your heart beat stronger and can help slow down heart rate. Digoxin ( Lanoxin) is one example of a digitalis drug.


Question: How can combined alpha- and beta-blockers help with treating heart disease?

Answer: This type of heart disease medication helps lower blood pressure. It does this by slowing your heart rate and reducing nerve impulses that tell vessels to tighten. Examples of combined alpha- and beta-blockers include carvedilol ( Coreg) and labetolol.


Question: What are side effects of angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitors (ARNIs) in treating heart disease?

Answer: This medication helps in these ways: Allows your heart to pump blood more efficiently Helps your heart beat more steadily Makes heart beat more slowly Lowers blood pressure Relieves chest pain Reduces stress on the heart Side effects for this drug includes: Low blood pressure High blood potassium levels Kidney impairment Cholesterol-lowering drugs can: Lower LDL bad cholesterol Raise HDL good cholesterol Lower triglyceride levels (a fat in your blood) Cholesterol-lowering drugs work in a variety of ways to improve heart health.


Question: How can calcium channel blockers (CCBs) help with treating heart disease?

Answer: CCBs prevent calcium from entering the muscle cells in your heart and blood vessels. This keeps blood vessels from tightening so much and causes the heart to pump with less strength. Your heart rate slows and blood can flow more easily through the vessels. This lowers blood pressure.


Question: What are central acting agents and how do they lower blood pressure?

Answer: Central acting agents keep your brain and central nervous system from sending too many nerve impulses that tell the vessels to tighten. As a result, blood vessels remain wider. This helps lower your blood pressure. They can also be called "central adrenergic inhibitors." Clonidine ( Catapres) is an example of a central agonist.


Question: Which vasodilators can help with treating heart disease?

Answer: Examples of vasodilators include: Hydralazine Isosorbide dinitrate ( Isordil) Isosorbide mononitrate ( Imdur) Minoxidil Nitroglycerin ( Minitran, Nitro-bid, Nitro-dur, Nitrolingual, Nitromist, Nitrostat) Which medications may be best for you?


Question: Which diuretics can help with treating heart disease?

Answer: Diuretics are sometimes the first type of medicine that your doctor will try if you have high blood pressure. Examples of diuretics include: Bumetanide Furosemide ( Lasix) Hydrochlorothiazide or HCTZ Potassium-sparing diuretics: amiloride ( Midamor), eplerenone ( Inspra), spironolactone ( Aldactone) and triamterene ( Dyrenium), Torsemide ( Demadex) Some diuretics are combined in one pill with other heart medications.


Question: Which beta blockers can help with treating heart disease?

Answer: Examples of beta-blockers include: Acebutolol ( Sectral) Atenolol ( Tenormin) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol XL) Nadolol ( Corgard) Nebivolol ( Bystolic) This type of heart disease drug is also called a calcium antagonist.


Question: How do vasodilators work in treating heart disease?

Answer: Vasodilator heart disease medicine has two effects: Lowers blood pressure Eases chest pain (angina) Vasodilators relax the muscles in the blood vessel walls. The vessels widen and blood flows through more easily. Your blood pressure lowers. Your heart receives more blood and oxygen, so it doesn't have to work so hard to pump.


Question: How can diuretics help with treating heart disease?

Answer: Diuretics are often called "water pills." Diuretics can help your heart in these ways: Lower blood pressure Reduce swelling from extra fluid buildup throughout your body Relieve the heart's workload Here's how they work: Diuretics help your kidneys remove sodium and water from the body.


Question: How can selective sinus node inhibitors help with treating heart disease?

Answer: This new class of drug targets a specific area of the heart, the sinoatrial pacemaker, which affects heart failure. These drugs: Regulate the pacemaker cells of the heart Lower the heart rate Ivabradine ( Corlanor) is used in patients whose heart muscle is not contracting well.


Question: How do angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors work in treating heart disease?

Answer: This type of heart disease medicine can help in these ways: Lower blood pressure Make the heart's work easier Help the heart work more efficiently Improve the heart's function if you have heart failure Protect the kidneys, especially in people with diabetes Here's how ACE inhibitors work: They prevent your body from making angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a hormone that makes blood vessels tighten. Because ACE inhibitors lower the amount of this hormone in your body, your blood vessels remain relaxed. The vessels widen and blood flows through more easily. Your blood pressure lowers. Your heart receives more blood and oxygen, so it doesn't have to work so hard to pump.


Question: How do beta-blockers work in treating heart disease?

Answer: Your heart doesn't have to work so hard to pump blood through your vessels. Examples of ARBs include: Irbesartan ( Avapro) Losartan ( Cozaar) Telmisartan ( Micardis) Valsartan ( Diovan) This type of heart disease medicine can help in these ways: Makes your heart beat more slowly Makes the heart beat with less force Lowers your blood pressure Helps prevent future heart attacks if you have already had one Relieves chest pain Helps your heart beat more steadily How do beta-blockers accomplish all this? They prevent the hormone adrenaline from working. When adrenaline is blocked, your heartbeat slows down. Your heart can't pump so hard. This makes blood go through your vessels with less force. The pressure inside your blood vessels drops.


Question: How can vasodilators help with treating heart disease?

Answer: You may also use an ARB if you cannot tolerate ACE inhibitors due to a cough, a common side effect. Vasodilator heart disease medicine has two effects: Lowers blood pressure Eases chest pain (angina) Vasodilators relax the muscles in the blood vessel walls.


Question: How can alpha-blockers help with treating heart disease?

Answer: Your blood vessels remain relaxed, lowering your overall blood pressure. Doxazosin ( Cardura) and prazosin ( Minipress) are two examples of the many alpha-blockers. CCBs can have these effects: Lower your blood pressure Reduce chest pain (angina) Help lower heart rate How do calcium channel blockers accomplish this? It does this by slowing your heart rate and reducing nerve impulses that tell vessels to tighten.


Question: Who might take a PCSK9 inhibitor?

Answer: This is a new class of cholesterol lowering drugs which is used in patients who cannot control their cholesterol through diet and statin treatments. A PCKS9 inhibitor can be effective in adult patients with the inherited disease heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia ( He FH) or for patients with atherosclerosis, whose cholesterol can not be controlled on other meds and who are in danger or heart attack or stroke.


Question: What are cholesterol-lowering drugs?

Answer: Resins (bile acid-binding drugs) help intestines dispose of cholesterol. Your doctor may prescribe vasodilators if you haven't been able to tolerate ACE inhibitors.


Question: What is septoplasty?

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


Question: What are the symptoms of polycystic liver disease?

Answer: Most of the time, people with polycystic liver disease have no symptoms. However, if the liver becomes very enlarged and bulky with cysts, symptoms may include: Bloating or swelling in the abdomen Abdominal pain Feeling full Shortness of breath Only about one out of every 10 people with PLD has problems associated with it.


Question: What complications can happen with polycystic liver disease?

Answer: However, if the liver becomes very enlarged and bulky with cysts, symptoms may include: Bloating or swelling in the abdomen Abdominal pain Feeling full Shortness of breath Only about one out of every 10 people with PLD has problems associated with it. In addition to severe abdominal pain, other complications may include: Bleeding into a cyst Infection of a cyst Bile duct obstruction and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) Because symptoms do not always occur, many people learn they have PLD incidentally or after a diagnosis of kidney disease related to polycystic kidney disease.


Question: Do liver cysts mean you have polycystic liver disease?

Answer: The fact that you may have a few cysts does not mean you have polycystic liver disease because there are other more common causes of cysts in the liver. Many factors are involved in diagnosing PLD, including family history, age, and number of cysts.


Question: What is polycystic liver disease?

Answer: Polycystic liver disease ( PLD or PCLD) is a rare condition that causes cysts -- fluid-filled sacs -- to grow throughout the liver. A normal liver has a smooth, uniform appearance. A polycystic liver can look like a cluster of very large grapes. Cysts also can grow independently in different parts of the liver. The cysts, if they get too numerous or large, may cause discomfort and health complications. But most people with polycystic liver disease do not have symptoms and live a normal life.


Question: What causes polycystic liver disease?

Answer: The majority of people with polycystic liver disease inherit the condition, but PLD can occur randomly with no genetic link. Treatments may include: Cyst aspiration: If a cyst is blocking a bile duct or if it has become infected, your doctor may recommend draining it. During cyst aspiration, your doctor, guided by ultrasound or CT imaging, will use a needle or catheter to drain the fluid in the cyst or cysts.


Question: When should I get the seasonal flu vaccine?

Answer: Or just weighing the pros and cons of the seasonal flu vaccine? The flu vaccine is not only about protecting you from getting the flu but also to prevent you from transmitting the flu to vulnerable people around you, such as the elderly, children, or the immuno-compromised.


Question: Why do we need to get flu vaccines every year?

Answer: Flu viruses change, so flu vaccines must change, too. Each year's vaccine is unique, cultivated from the flu strains health officials believe will be most menacing that year.


Question: Can people with egg allergy safely get the flu vaccine?

Answer: It's long been advised that people with allergies to eggs should not get the flu shot. However, the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology says the vaccine contains such a low amount of egg protein that it's unlikely to cause an allergic reaction in those with an egg allergy. If you have a severe egg allergy (anaphylaxis), talk to your doctor before getting the flu vaccine. Also, flu vaccines not made with the use of eggs are available.


Question: What is the link between autism spectrum disorders and the flu vaccine preservative thimerosal?

Answer: Concern that there's a link between autism spectrum disorders and the vaccine preservative thimerosal has prevented some parents from getting their kids vaccinated. Worry no more. Studies have found that there is no link between vaccines containing thimerosal and ASD. And if you're still worried, thimerosal-free flu vaccines are now the standard for children in the U. S. -- and available to adults for the asking.


Question: How should people 65 and older get vaccinated against the flu?

Answer: Worry no more. The nasal spray Flu Mist vaccine is approved for healthy, non-pregnant adults, and those between ages 2 and 49.


Question: How do you know if you have atrial fibrillation (AFib)?

Answer: When your heart's electrical signals aren't working right, it can lead to a heartbeat that's too fast or too slow. This abnormal heart rhythm is what doctors call atrial fibrillation, or AFib for short.


Question: When are you more likely to get atrial fibrillation (AFib)?

Answer: You're more likely to get atrial fibrillation if you have: Heart disease Heart failure Valve disease Had a heart attack or heart surgery Any type of AFib can lead to a stroke or heart failure.