Question: Does stinging nettle help with allergies?

Answer: Stinging nettle leaf may be useful in reducing the symptoms of hay fever by acting as an anti-inflammatory. Some research has linked treatment with stinging nettle leaf to relief of symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes. But more well-designed studies are needed to confirm this effect.


Question: Why should you tell your doctor about any stinging nettle supplements you're taking?

Answer: Tell your doctor about any supplements you're taking, even if they're natural. That way, your doctor can check on any potential side effects or interactions with any medications.


Question: Does stinging nettle help treat joint pain?

Answer: Research has found some evidence that rubbing stinging nettle leaves on painful joints can provide pain relief. One small study also found that eating stewed nettle leaves was a helpful addition to the anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac. People have also used stinging nettle as a diuretic -- a treatment that causes the body to shed more water in the urine. Research has found this effect from stinging nettle in rats. Optimal doses of stinging nettle have not been set for any condition.


Question: What are side effects of bile acid drugs for lowering "bad" (LDL) cholesterol?

Answer: Examples: Alirocumab ( Praluent) Evolocumab ( Repatha) Side effects: Because these drugs are newer, it will take more time to get to know their side effects. In clinical trials, the most common ones for alirocumab are itching, swelling, pain, or bruising where you get the shot, as well as colds and flu.


Question: What are side effects of taking niacin for "bad" (LDL) cholesterol?

Answer: Side effects: The main ones are flushing, itching, tingling, and headache.


Question: What should you do to lower "bad" (LDL) cholesterol?

Answer: When you have high cholesterol, the first thing to do is to change your diet and fitness: less saturated fat, no trans fat, less sugar, and more activity. If that doesn't bring down your âbadâ ( LDL) cholesterol enough, your doctor may suggest that you also take medicine to help out. ( You'll still need to keep up those lifestyle habits.)


Question: What are the side effects of PCSK9 inhibitors for lowering "bad" (LDL) cholesterol?

Answer: Examples: Alirocumab ( Praluent) Evolocumab ( Repatha) Side effects: Because these drugs are newer, it will take more time to get to know their side effects. In clinical trials, the most common ones for alirocumab are itching, swelling, pain, or bruising where you get the shot, as well as colds and flu. For evolucumab, they include colds, flu, back pain, and skin reactions where you get the shot.


Question: Why should you avoid grapefruit while taking statins for lowering "bad" (LDL) cholesterol?

Answer: You should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice when you take statins. Grapefruit makes it harder for your body to use these medicines.


Question: What are statins?

Answer: These are usually the first type of drug that doctors prescribe to lower LDL. They also lower triglycerides, which are another type of blood fat, and mildly raise your "good" ( HDL) cholesterol. Statins include: Atorvastatin ( Lipitor) Fluvastatin ( Lescol) Lovastatin Pitavastatin ( Livalo) Pravastatin ( Pravachol) Rosuvastatin calcium ( Crestor) Simvastatin ( Zocor) Studies show that statins lower the chance of a âcardiovascular eventâ such as a heart attack.


Question: What are bile acid resin drugs?

Answer: What they are: Your doctor may call these âbile acid resinâ drugs or âbile acid sequestrants.â The work inside your intestine. They attach to bile from the liver and prevent it from being absorbed back into your blood. Bile is made largely from cholesterol, so these drugs whittle down the body's supply of cholesterol.


Question: What are PCSK9 inhibitors for lowering "bad" (LDL) cholesterol?

Answer: Examples include: Fenofibrate Gemfibrozil ( Lopid) What they are: These drugs are used in people who can't manage their cholesterol through lifestyle and statin treatments. They block a protein called PCSK9 to make it easier for the body to remove LDL from your blood.


Question: What are side effects of taking statins to lower "bad" (LDL) cholesterol?

Answer: Side effects can include intestinal problems, liver damage (rare), and muscle inflammation. High blood sugar and type 2 diabetes may also be more likely with statins, although the risk is âsmallâ and the benefits outweigh the risks, according to the FDA. Statins drugs may also interact with other medications you take. Your doctor should check on that first.


Question: Do statins lower the chance of a heart attack?

Answer: Statins include: Atorvastatin ( Lipitor) Fluvastatin ( Lescol) Lovastatin Pitavastatin ( Livalo) Pravastatin ( Pravachol) Rosuvastatin calcium ( Crestor) Simvastatin ( Zocor) Studies show that statins lower the chance of a âcardiovascular eventâ such as a heart attack.


Question: What are the disadvantages of dental veneers?

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


Question: What happens in preparation for a dental veneer?

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


Question: Are there alternatives to dental veneers?

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


Question: What happens when bonding a dental veneer?

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


Question: What are dental veneers made of?

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


Question: How long do dental veneers last?

Answer: Veneers generally last between 7 and 15 years.


Question: What are the advantages of dental veneers?

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


Question: What types of problems do dental veneers fix?

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


Question: What are dental veneers?

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


Question: What are some signs someone needs reading glasses?

Answer: Here are a few signs that you do: When you hold books and other reading materials up close, they look blurry. You have to hold them farther away to read them. You have trouble seeing smaller print in dim light. Your eyes hurt when you try to read, sew, or do other close work. You get a headache when you try to read.


Question: How do reading glasses treat astigmatism?

Answer: Keep in mind that these glasses might not fit you as well as prescription glasses. They also don't correct astigmatism (a common condition that causes blurred vision), and they can't be adjusted if you need a different strength in each eye. Also, your vision can change as you get older. You might need to buy a stronger pair of reading glasses in a year or two.


Question: When should I make a doctor's appointment for reading glasses?

Answer: If your close vision is blurry, make an appointment with your eye doctor for an exam. He can recommend a reading glass strength or write a prescription based on your exam. And it's always a good idea to get checked for other eye issues.


Question: How do I pick out reading glasses?

Answer: Test out a few to see which one works best. Hold a book or magazine 14 to 16 inches away from your face, and see if the glasses make the print easier to read. You might need two different strengths -- one pair for very close reading and one for middle distances like your computer screen. Choose the weakest (lowest number) glasses that will work for you.


Question: How can clothing help with diabetes-related skin problems?

Answer: This simple first line of defense can help you avoid the cuts and scratches that can lead to infection. Whether you're gardening or walking the dog, cover your legs with long pants and your feet with flat, well-fitting shoes.


Question: Does controlling diabetes help skin problems?

Answer: Get -- and keep -- your blood sugar within a normal range. If you already have skin problems, you can stop them from getting worse. Strive for a healthy weight, eat right, cut back on salt, maintain a healthy blood pressure, and exercise.


Question: Does diabetes cause skin problems?

Answer: Diabetes makes you more likely to get a wide range of skin problems.


Question: How can you get educated about diabetes-related skin problems?

Answer: One key to preventing problems is to understand what causes them. Talk to your doctor. Learn about the complications, what your particular risks are, and how you can lower them.


Question: How does self-awareness help with diabetes?

Answer: Be aware. If you have diabetic nerve damage, which is called neuropathy, you could have an infected cut, scratch, or skin puncture and not know it. Don't let a small problem turn into a big one. Be aware of your body. Check your legs, ankles, feet, and in between your toes every day for new wounds or old ones that never seem to heal.


Question: How does treating wounds and sores help with diabetes?

Answer: Treat wounds and sores. Don't neglect them. If you find a nick, a scratch, a small cut, or anything that isn't healing or that worries you, talk to your doctor right away.


Question: Can checking for scabs and cuts help skin problems associated with diabetes?

Answer: Don't let a small problem turn into a big one. Be aware of your body. Check your legs, ankles, feet, and in between your toes every day for new wounds or old ones that never seem to heal. Treat wounds and sores. Don't neglect them. If you find a nick, a scratch, a small cut, or anything that isn't healing or that worries you, talk to your doctor right away.


Question: How does being educated about diabetes help with the disease?

Answer: One key to preventing problems is to understand what causes them. Talk to your doctor. Learn about the complications, what your particular risks are, and how you can lower them.


Question: Who is at risk of getting actinic keratosis?

Answer: People with fair skin, blond or red hair, and blue or green eyes are most at risk of developing these rough, scaly patches, or keratoses. A history of a sunburn also increases the risk. If not treated, these patches can develop into a more serious form of skin cancer, although this is unusual.


Question: How can you treat a black eye?

Answer: First step: Apply something cold to the area. It helps ease swelling and narrows your blood vessels. That will stop bleeding below your skin. Make a crushed ice pack, grab a bag of frozen veggies, or use a cold gel pack. Wrap it in a cloth so it doesn't have direct contact with your skin. Hold it to your eye for 10 minutes intervals every 1 to 2 hours. Limit icing to 10 minutes so the ice doesn't damage your skin. Besides icy treatment, there isn't much you can do except to avoid anything that could cause further injury. Don't put pressure on your eye or try to force it open. Talk to your doctor about the right medicine to take to help with pain.


Question: How do I treat a black eye?

Answer: First step: Apply something cold to the area. It helps ease swelling and narrows your blood vessels. That will stop bleeding below your skin. Make a crushed ice pack, grab a bag of frozen veggies, or use a cold gel pack. Wrap it in a cloth so it doesn't have direct contact with your skin. Hold it to your eye for 10 minutes intervals every 1 to 2 hours. Limit icing to 10 minutes so the ice doesn't damage your skin. Besides icy treatment, there isn't much you can do except to avoid anything that could cause further injury. Don't put pressure on your eye or try to force it open. Talk to your doctor about the right medicine to take to help with pain.


Question: How can certain medicines trigger tinnitus?

Answer: Certain medicines: Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can trigger ringing or make it louder. This includes aspirin, diuretics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs), quinine-based medication, and certain antibiotics, antidepressants, and cancer drugs. Usually the stronger the dose, the greater your chance of problems. Often if you stop the drug, your symptoms will go away. See your doctor if you think a drug may be to blame.


Question: How can excessive earwax trigger tinnitus?

Answer: But if it doesn't wash away on its own and too much piles up, it could lead to ringing or hearing loss. Your doctor can remove the buildup gently.


Question: What other medical problems can trigger tinnitus?

Answer: Other medical problems: These include changes in your inner ear bones, an inner ear disorder called Meniere's disease, or head and neck injuries. Conditions like fibromyalgia and Lyme disease also can trigger ear ringing. Your doctor will help you figure out the cause and ease the sounds.


Question: How can loud noises trigger tinnitus?

Answer: Loud noises: Loud noises are a leading cause. It could be something you hear every day for years, or something that only happens once. That includes everything from concerts and sporting events to loud machinery and backfiring engines. They can affect one or both ears, and they may cause hearing loss and pain. The damage can be permanent or temporary.


Question: How can problems with your temporomandibular joint (TMJ) trigger tinnitus?

Answer: TMJ: Problems with your jaw or temporomandibular joint ( TMJ) can cause tinnitus. You might notice popping or pain in the joint when you chew or talk. The joint shares some nerves and ligaments with your middle ear. A dentist can treat TMJ disorders and help keep ear ringing from getting worse.


Question: How can ear and sinus infections trigger tinnitus?

Answer: Ear and sinus infections: You might notice tinnitus when you've had a cold. That could be due to an ear or sinus infection that affects your hearing and increases pressure in your sinuses. If that's the cause, it shouldn't last long. If it doesn't get better after a week or so, see your doctor.


Question: How can age-related hearing loss trigger tinnitus?

Answer: Age-related hearing loss: For many people, hearing gets worse as you age. This usually begins around 60. It usually affects both ears. You'll probably notice a problem with high-frequency sounds.


Question: What are the symptoms of burns?

Answer: The symptoms of burns depend on the cause and type of burn. They can include: Blisters Pain ( The degree of pain is not related to the severity of the burn, as the most serious burns can be painless.) Peeling skin Red skin Shock ( Symptoms of shock may include pale and clammy skin, weakness, bluish lips and fingernails, and a drop in alertness.) Swelling White or charred skin Burn treatment depends on the type of burn.


Question: What causes burns?

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(); }); } Dry heat (such as fire), wet heat (such as steam or hot liquids), radiation, friction, heated objects, the sun, electricity, or chemicals can all cause burns. Thermal burns are the most common kind of burns. These burns occur when flames, hot metals, scalding liquids, or steam come in contact with skin as a result of many different circumstances, including house fires, vehicle accidents, kitchen accidents, and electrical malfunctions.


Question: How are burns treated?

Answer: Swelling White or charred skin Burn treatment depends on the type of burn. First-degree burns usually are treated with skin care products like aloe vera cream or an antibiotic ointment and pain medication such as acetaminophen ( Tylenol). Second-degree burns may be treated with an antibiotic cream or other creams or ointments prescribed by a doctor. The treatment of third-degree burns may require the process of skin grafting or the use of synthetic skin. Severe burns covering large parts of the body may need more intensive treatments such as intravenous ( IV) antibiotics to prevent infection or IV fluids to replace fluids lost when skin was burned.


Question: Does keeping a whitening solution on your teeth longer make your teeth whiter?

Answer: Generally, the longer you keep a stronger solution on your teeth, the whiter your teeth become. However, the higher the percentage of peroxide in the whitening solution, the shorter it should be applied to the teeth. Keeping the gel on longer will dehydrate the tooth and increase tooth sensitivity.


Question: Are there foods and drinks I should avoid if I want to keep my teeth white?

Answer: Also, avoid acidic and tannin-rich foods and beverages such as: Black teas and coffee White and red wine Sports drinks Carbonated beverages (dark and light-colored sodas) Berries and other strongly-colored foods Sauces (soy, tomato, curries) Tooth bleaching can make teeth temporarily sensitive -- or be uncomfortable for people who already have sensitive teeth.


Question: How do SSRIs help with depression?

Answer: This process of replacing the neurotransmitter is called âreuptake.â If you're struggling with depression, the areas of your brain that regulate mood and send messages using serotonin might not function properly. SSRIs help make more serotonin available by blocking the reuptake process. This allows serotonin to build up between neurons so messages can be sent correctly. They're called âselectiveâ serotonin reuptake inhibitors because they specifically target serotonin.


Question: Are SSRIs safe?

Answer: Although it's rare, if too much serotonin accumulates in your system, you can develop a condition called serotonin syndrome. This happens most often if two different medications that increase serotonin are combined. SSRIs can also have dangerous interactions with some medicines, both prescription and over-the-counter, including herbs and supplements. Before starting on an SSRI, make sure to tell your doctor all the different kinds of medications and supplements you're taking.


Question: How long do SSRIs take to work?

Answer: Everyone is different when it comes to seeing improvements on SSRIs. But people typically start noticing positive changes after about 4 to 6 weeks of treatment. It can take several months to feel the full effect of the medication. But if you're not feeling any improvements after about 6 to 8 weeks, talk to your doctor about trying another treatment or adjusting your dosage.


Question: Do all SSRIs have the same side effects?

Answer: Since all SSRIs work in a similar way, the side effects tend to be similar no matter what kind you take. But each SSRI has a different chemical makeup, so it's possible that if you're having side effects from one, you may not experience as many or any at all if you switch to another.


Question: What is a nasal cannula device for home oxygen therapy?

Answer: This is a soft plastic tube with two small prongs at one end. They go in your nose, and the tube rests over your ears to hold it in place. The other end connects to your oxygen supply. The nasal cannula delivers steady oxygen. It can dry your nose out a little.


Question: My baby boy is circumcised. How can I care for his penis once his circumcision has started to heal?

Answer: After a couple of days, once the area starts to heal, you can stop using a bandage and just put some petroleum jelly on the tip. This will keep his healing penis from sticking to his diaper. Change his diaper often, and use a mild soap and water to clean off any poop that gets on his penis. It's normal for the tip of the penis to look red and appear to have a crusty white or yellow coating. That helps the area heal -- don't wipe it off. Once the penis is healed, usually after 7-10 days, you can wash it with soap and water.


Question: My baby boy is circumcised. How can I care for his penis after we leave the hospital?

Answer: After the procedure, his care team covered his penis with petroleum jelly and wrapped it in gauze. Keep a covering on the area for the 48 hours following the procedure. For the first couple of days after the surgery, your doctor may recommend keeping the area covered with a glob of petroleum jelly on a square gauze pad. Change the pad after poopy diapers to prevent an infection.


Question: My baby boy is circumcised. What are problems with his penis that I should watch for?

Answer: Problems are rare, but let your doctor know if: Your baby doesn't pee within 6-8 hours after the circumcision The bleeding doesn't stop Redness gets worse after a few days You notice swelling, crusted yellow sores or discharge from the penis. Usually once the circumcision is healed, you don't need to do anything special. Just keep the area clean and dry so your son stays healthy and comfortable.


Question: My baby boy is uncircumcised. What are tips for caring for his penis?

Answer: If your baby wasn't circumcised, meaning you chose not to remove the skin at the head of his penis, you don't have to do any special cleaning. Just wipe the area during diaper changes and rinse with warm, soapy water at bath time. Don't ever try to pull down the foreskin to clean under it. At this age, it's fused to the head of the penis, and forcing it back can cause pain or bleeding. Your doctor will let you know when the skin has separated, which won't happen until he's 3-5 years old. At that point, the foreskin will easily move back and forth, and you can teach your son to regularly wash the area underneath.


Question: What happens during an electrophysiology (EP) study?

Answer: During the EP study, your doctor will safely reproduce your heart rhythm. Then, he may give you different medicines to see which controls it best. Sometimes, one of these studies is done before you get an implantable cardioverter/defibrillator ( ICD). It can help your doctor discover which device is best for you.


Question: What does an electrophysiology (EP) study do?

Answer: It can help find what's causing your irregular heartbeat. It also helps figure out the best treatment for you.


Question: What can I expect during the electrophysiology (EP) study?

Answer: Your nurses and doctor will want to know about any symptoms you are feeling. If your irregular heart rhythm starts up, your doctor may give you medications through your IV to see how well they control it. If necessary, a small amount of energy may be delivered by the patches on your chest to bring back a normal rhythm. Based on the information collected during the study, the doctor may continue with something called an ablation procedure. That scars some of the tissue in your heart to restore a normal rhythm. He may also continue monitoring you with a pacemaker or ICD.


Question: Should I call the doctor because of a fever?

Answer: If you've had a fever for more than several days, a high fever, or if you have fever and other symptoms like severe vomiting, diarrhea, earache, or cough, call your doctor. Always call a doctor for any fever in infants three months of age or younger. Also see your doctor if a child under age 3 has a fever above 102 F or if they have a fever for more than a day or two. People with a suppressed immune system, such as those with HIV, those who've had an organ transplant, those who are taking chemotherapy, or those who have any other medical conditions such as diabetes and heart disease, should also give the doctor a call.


Question: Can getting a flu shot weaken your immune system and make you more likely to get the flu?

Answer: Getting a flu vaccine prepares your immune system for the flu. A flu vaccine teaches your immune system to recognize that virus as a threat. While some people may still get the flu after having a flu shot, they'll probably have a milder form of the illness. That's because antibodies made in response to the vaccine can still provide some protection. So why do some people swear a flu vaccine gave them the flu? Some may mistake the occasional, short-lived side effects of the vaccine (slight fever, aches) for flu symptoms. And the time of year people are most likely to get the vaccine is when colds and other respiratory illnesses are common. If you get the vaccine and then get sick with an unrelated bug, you may assume, incorrectly, that the vaccine caused the illness.


Question: Is stress bad for your health?

Answer: Over time, it can make you more vulnerable to illnesses, from colds and flu to chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease. Chronic stress seems to age the immune system, studies show, making you more likely to get a cold or the flu, and to develop diabetes and heart disease.


Question: What are some lifestyle tips to prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Answer: These strategies may also help prevent GERD: Relieve stress: See if yoga, meditation, or tai chi can cut your symptoms. Chew gum after meals: You'll make more saliva, which helps neutralize heartburn-causing acid. Wear loose clothing: Tight clothing, especially around your stomach, can push stomach acid upward.


Question: How can losing weight help in preventing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Answer: Being overweight puts extra pressure on your stomach, which pushes food and acid up toward your esophagus. If you need to shed pounds, you'll see improvements in GERD if you lose just 10 to 15 pounds. Talk to your doctor to figure out a plan to drop no more than about 1 to 2 pounds each week.


Question: How soon before I travel should I get a hepatitis A vaccine?

Answer: As an adult, you should get the shot if you: Travel to Africa, Asia (except Japan), the Mediterranean, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Central and South America, Mexico, and parts of the Caribbean Use recreational drugs Are in the military Work in a day care center, nursing home, or you're a health care professional Are a man who has sex with men Have long-term liver disease Take blood products to treat hemophilia or other conditions If you're planning a trip to a place where there are outbreaks of hepatitis A, keep in mind that the vaccine only starts to work 2 to 4 weeks after you get it. And if you want long-term protection, you'll need a follow-up shot 6 to 12 months later. If you didn't get your hepatitis A vaccine a month before you travel, you may be able to get a shot of hepatitis A immune globulin before you leave. This may prevent hepatitis A infection if you get it within 2 weeks before or after you come into contact with the virus.


Question: When should I call my doctor about my child's stomach ache and nausea?

Answer: The child is too weak to stand up. Knowing that a child has a stomachache or nausea can be hard, but pain lessens within two hours in most cases. The child has a stomachache and any of the following: Pain that happens more often or gets worse Pain that moves from the belly button to the lower right of the abdomen Trouble walking because of pain No appetite for a day or longer Green or yellow vomit or vomit that contains blood or flecks that look like coffee grounds Symptoms of dehydration such as darker urine and fewer wet diapers Black or bloody stool Problems passing stool A rash that looks like bruises on the legs and buttocks Headache and sore throat along with stomach pain Pain when urinating Have the child lie down and rest.


Question: What is a hydrofluoroalkane inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: The HFA consists of a pressurized canister inside a plastic case, with a mouthpiece attached. With an HFA, you press on the device while inhaling the COPD medication directly into your lungs. Its portability makes it easy to use anywhere,anytime. HFAs use a chemical propellant to push medication out of the inhaler. Some medications can be taken in the form of a dry powder, using a dry powder inhaler, which is also a handheld device.


Question: How do I keep track of how much medication is in my dry powder inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: Your DPI should have an indicator on the top or sides, telling you how many doses you have left. Make sure you have a new dry powder inhaler available before the old one is empty.


Question: How do I use a dry powder inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: These are the general steps for using a dry powder inhaler for COPD: Remove the cap from the dry powder inhaler. Load a dose of medicine (how you do this depends on the type of inhaler you have). Turn your head and breathe out as much air as you can -- try and empty your lungs. Put the dry powder inhaler up to your mouth. Place the mouth-piece in your mouth and seal your lips firmly around the opening so no air or medicine can escape out the sides. Using just your mouth, breathe in once -- very deep and fast -- filling your lungs as deeply as you can. Dry powder inhalers are breathe-activated, so it's the breathing in deep and fast that gives you the right dose of medicine. Never breathe into the inhaler. Take your mouth off the inhaler and hold your breath for at least 10 seconds. Then slowly breathe out. If your doctor prescribed more than one dose of COPD medication, wait about 1 minute before taking the next dose. Replace the cap on the dry powder inhaler. Gargle and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash (usually advised only for steroid-type inhalers).


Question: Why is it important to learn how to use my inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: If you use the hydrofluoroalkane inhaler or dry powder inhaler the right way, you receive the right amount of COPD medication and it can reach deep inside your lungs. Then you can gain the full benefit of the medication. Also, if you use your inhaler the right way, you are less likely to experience side effects.


Question: How do I use a hydrofluoroalkane inhaler for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: These are the general steps for using a hydrofluoroalkane inhaler for COPD: Remove the cap from the hydrofluoroalkane inhaler. Shake the inhaler for a few seconds. Place your index finger on top of the canister and thumb on the bottom of the mouthpiece. Tilt your head back slightly and breathe out. Hold the inhaler upright about the width of two fingers from your mouth. Press down on the inhaler once as you breathe in as slowly and deeply as you can - about 3 to 5 seconds. If possible, hold your breath for at least 10 seconds. If your doctor prescribed more than one puff of COPD medication, wait about 1 minute and repeat steps 2-8. Replace the cap on the metered dose inhaler. Gargle and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash (usually advised only for steroid-type inhalers).


Question: What are the treatments for a vaginal yeast infection?

Answer: These can take from 1 to 7 days. Your doctor may also prescribe a single-dose pill with fluconazole (an antifungal medicine) for you to take. If you're pregnant, it's safe to use creams or suppositories, but avoid the fluconazole you take by mouth. It's important for you to know that some yeast infection medications weaken condoms or diaphragms. That makes it easier for you to get pregnant or contract a sexually transmitted disease. Be sure to read instructions and warnings before using. If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, you may get yeast infections over and over again. It's a condition called recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis ( RVVC). If you get yeast infections at least four times a year, your doctor may recommend that you take a weekly fluconazole pill for 6 months to fight them.


Question: What causes vaginal yeast infections?

Answer: There are many reasons you could get a yeast infection, including: Hormones: Changes during pregnancy, breast-feeding or menopause (or if you're taking birth control pills) can change the balance in your vagina. Diabetes: If your diabetes is not well-controlled, the increase in sugar in the mucus membranes (moist linings) of your vagina can create a place for yeast to grow. Antibiotics: These drugs can kill off many of the good bacteria that live in your vagina. Douches and vaginal sprays: The use of these products can change the balance in your vagina. A weakened immune system: If you are HIV-positive or have another immune system disorder, the yeast may also grow uncontrolled. Sex: Though a yeast infection is not considered a sexually transmitted infection, it can be passed from person to person through sexual contact.


Question: What are the symptoms of a vaginal yeast infection?

Answer: Itchiness and discomfort are the main symptoms of a yeast infection, but there are others. You may also experience any or all of the following: Burning, redness, and swelling of the vagina and the vulva (the outer part of the female genitals) Pain or burning when you pee Pain during sex A thick, white, odorless discharge, similar to cottage cheese If you think you have a yeast infection, see your doctor before treating yourself.


Question: How common are vaginal yeast infections?

Answer: But vaginal yeast infections are very common in women. It's estimated that 75% of women will have at least one yeast infection in her lifetime. Though yeast infections can happen to anyone at any time, there are certain things that make getting them more likely. Most infections can be cleared up quickly and easily.


Question: When does a vaginal yeast infection occur?

Answer: The vagina normally contains a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast. The hormone estrogen helps bacteria called lactobacilli to grow. These bacteria kill harmful organisms in the vagina and keep you healthy. But when something happens to tip that balance, a fungus called candida can grow out of control and cause a yeast infection.


Question: Do probiotics help prevent a vaginal yeast infection?

Answer: Some studies have shown that eating probiotic yogurt or taking Lactobacillus acidophilussupplements may slow the growth of yeast in the vagina, lowering the risk for infections. But more research is needed before a clear connection can be made.


Question: What is the treatment for Chagas disease?

Answer: If the disease enters its second (or chronic) phase, it can cause serious heart and intestinal problems, including: An enlarged heart, esophagus, or colon Heart failure An altered heart rhythm Blood clots Sudden cardiac arrest Chagas disease is easiest to treat during the first phase. But the lack of symptoms can make it tough to spot early on. If you think you have it, your doctor can give you blood tests. If the tests show you're infected, you'll need an EKG test to check for any heart problems. Two drugs can treat the disease: benznidazole ( Alunbrig) and nifurtimox ( Lampit), which kill the parasite. They work well if taken soon after infection. The longer someone's had Chagas disease, the less likely the drugs are to work. Pregnant women can't take them, but infected newborns can. If you're in the U. S., the only way to get the drugs is through the CDC, since they're not approved by the FDA. The drugs must be taken for up to 2 months. They can cause serious side effects, especially in older people.


Question: How do home tests for a urinary tract infection (UTI) work?

Answer: You can buy over-the-counter UTI dipstick tests at your local drugstore or online. They work much like a pregnancy test: Each kit comes with a testing strip (usually three to a kit). You wet a test strip by holding it in your urine stream for a few seconds. Or, you can collect urine in a clean cup and dip the strip into the sample. Wait 1 to 2 minutes for the color of the test strip to change. This will vary depending on the brand you use. Check the chart on the home test kit to find out if you've tested positive for a UTI. Home test kits might be useful if you have UTIs that keep coming back. They check for white blood cells and bacteria in the urine. But the results can be affected by a number of things, like medications you're taking. And studies show that urine cultures are far more reliable for showing whether you have a UTI. The bottom line: See your doctor to be sure, no matter what your UTI home test reveals.


Question: What should you know about a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Answer: UTIs are most often caused by bacteria, but they can also be brought on by fungi, or viruses. Normally, your body gets rid of these germs before they cause a problem. But if the germs win, you can get a painful UTI. If you've ever had one, you know the telltale signs: an intense urge to pee, having to pee more often, peeing very little when you go, and a burning sensation during urination. If you think you have a UTI, see your doctor. He'll find out whether your symptoms are caused by that or another infection. He'll also be able to prescribe antibiotics to treat it. Can't wait to find out if you have a UTI? A home test can help you find out faster.


Question: What can trigger an outbreak of cold sores?

Answer: Some things can trigger an outbreak, such as: Eating certain foods Stress Fever Colds Allergies Sunburns Menstruation To protect other people, when you have cold sores, don't: Kiss anyone Share forks, knives, spoons, glasses, towels, lip balm, or razors Have oral sex


Question: How does herpes simplex virus (HSV) lead to cold sores?

Answer: You usually catch HSV when you come into contact with people or things that carry the virus. For instance, you can get it from kissing someone who's infected or when you share eating utensils, towels, or razors.


Question: What can happen if I get cold sores?

Answer: The symptoms are usually the most severe the first you time you get cold sores. Sometimes kids who are affected may become seriously ill. After the first time you get cold sores, your body may develop antibodies, and you'll never have another infection. About 40% of U. S. adults, though, get repeated cold sores.


Question: What causes cold sores?

Answer: There are two types of herpes simplex virus that can cause cold sores: HSV type 1 and HSV type 2. Cold sores are usually caused by HSV type 1.


Question: Who gets cold sores?

Answer: Just about everyone. Up to 90 percent of all people get at least one cold sore in their life.


Question: How can herpes simplex virus (HSV) cause cold sores?

Answer: Both HSV type 1 and type 2 can cause sores on your genitals. They can be spread by oral sex. Genital herpes is usually caused by HSV type 2. You may get cold sores as late as 20 days after you came into contact with the virus. Once the virus enters your body, the cold sore may appear near the part it entered. About 2 days before an attack, you may get itchy or feel sensitive at the spot.


Question: How can I protect others from cold sores?

Answer: Some things can trigger an outbreak, such as: Eating certain foods Stress Fever Colds Allergies Sunburns Menstruation To protect other people, when you have cold sores, don't: Kiss anyone Share forks, knives, spoons, glasses, towels, lip balm, or razors Have oral sex


Question: How can physical therapy help with joint pain?

Answer: This is used to treat osteoarthritis You can work with a physical therapist to strengthen the muscles around the joint, stabilize the joint, and improve your range of motion. The therapist will use techniques such as ultrasound, heat or cold therapy, electrical nerve stimulation, and manipulation. If you are overweight, losing weight can relieve some of the pressure on your painful joints. Exercise is one effective way to lose weight (along with diet), but be careful to stick with low-impact exercises that won't further irritate the joint. Swimming and bicycling are among the best exercises because both allow you to exercise your joints without putting impact on them. Because water is buoyant, swimming also relieves some of the pressure on your joints.


Question: Do chronic allergies ever go away?

Answer: Some people, most often children, may outgrow an allergy completely. Others find that with age, their allergy symptoms lighten up. That may be because the immune system can weaken with age, and perhaps can't muster as strong a reaction to the allergen. But as an adult, once you have an allergy, it usually doesn't go away on its own.


Question: Why do teething babies have rashes?

Answer: Lots of drooling can sometimes create a rash around your child's mouth, but one that spreads to cover his torso, arms, or legs could be caused by an illness.


Question: How much fussiness is normal for a teething baby?

Answer: The phrase âcutting a toothâ makes it sound like your little one will have severe, stabbing pain, but teething pain is pretty mild. A bit of extra fussiness is normal. But if your baby cries so much that she can't sleep or be consoled, see your doctor.


Question: How is a hydrocele treated?

Answer: If a hydrocele is very large or causing pain, surgery can usually correct it. Injecting a special material through the scrotal wall can sometimes fix hydroceles without surgery.


Question: How is testicular cancer treated?

Answer: Cancer that has not spread from the testicle can be cured by orchiectomy, a surgery to remove the testicle. If it has spread outside the testicle testicular cancer treatments may include surgery to remove the abdominal lymph nodes, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of the three.


Question: What is orchitis?

Answer: Orchitis is an inflammation of one or both testicles caused by infection or the mumps. It can also be caused by STDs like gonorrhea and chlamydia.


Question: What can I do to prevent testicular disease?

Answer: There is no proven way to prevent testicular cancer. This is why early detection is so important. Experts recommend that all young men perform a testicular self-exam monthly.


Question: What are common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion?

Answer: The most common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include: Confusion Dark-colored urine (a sign of dehydration) Dizziness Fainting Fatigue Headache Muscle or abdominal cramps Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea Pale skin Profuse sweating Rapid heartbeat If you, or anyone else, has symptoms of heat exhaustion, it's essential to immediately get out of the heat and rest, preferably in an air-conditioned room.


Question: What is the treatment for heat exhaustion?

Answer: The most common signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion include: Confusion Dark-colored urine (a sign of dehydration) Dizziness Fainting Fatigue Headache Muscle or abdominal cramps Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea Pale skin Profuse sweating Rapid heartbeat If you, or anyone else, has symptoms of heat exhaustion, it's essential to immediately get out of the heat and rest, preferably in an air-conditioned room. If you can't get inside, try to find the nearest cool and shady place. Other recommended strategies include: Drink plenty of fluids, especially sports drinks to replace lost salt (avoid caffeine and alcohol). Remove any tight or unnecessary clothing. Take a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath. Apply other cooling measures such as fans or ice towels. If such measures fail to provide relief within 15 minutes, seek emergency medical help, because untreated heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke.


Question: What are other risk factors associated with heat-related illness?

Answer: Other risk factors associated with heat-related illness include: Age. Infants and children up to age 4, and adults over age 65, are particularly vulnerable because they adjust to heat more slowly than other people. Certain health conditions. These include heart, lung, or kidney disease, obesity or underweight, high blood pressure, diabetes, mental illness, sickle cell trait, alcoholism, sunburn, and any conditions that cause fever. People with diabetes are at increased risk of emergency room visits, hospitalization, and death from heat-related illness and may be especially likely to underestimate their risk during heat waves. Medications. These include some medicines in the following classes: diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, stimulants, heart and blood pressure medications, and medications for psychiatric conditions.


Question: What is step 2 in a laparoscopic total abdominal colectomy?

Answer: Your surgeon will carefully free the colon in sections, starting with the rectum and sigmoid colon, and finishing with the ascending (right) colon. He will also cut and close the main blood vessels (arteries) that supply blood to the colon throughout the surgery. During the procedure, the surgeon will use a paddle-like instrument to hold loops of the intestine up and out of the way. When the entire large intestine is freed, the surgeon will free the right colon from the ileum. Then he'll identify the part of the ileum that he will join with the rectum. Finally, your surgeon will pass a snare-like instrument over the colon to make sure that all of the attachments to the tissue have been cut. This tool is designed to hold a wire loop, which the surgeon tightens around any remaining tissue growths to remove them. Once this is complete, he will make one of the surgical cuts bigger and pull the colon out of the abdominal cavity.


Question: When might a pediatric palliative care team be recommended?

Answer: If palliative care services are not recommended at diagnosis, a doctor may recommend them, or parents can request them, if one of the following occurs: A first treatment is unsuccessful Symptoms worsen or prior symptoms recur Parents are being asked to make increasingly difficult decisions Parents feel they need additional support Pediatric palliative care is a relatively new specialty available in major children's hospitals and academic hospitals as well as in most medium-sized children's hospitals.


Question: What do you do if there is not a pediatric palliative care team available at your child's hospital?

Answer: If pediatric palliative care is not available at your child's hospital, primary caregivers can perform some palliative tasks. Families may ask their primary doctor if it is possible to be referred to an outside facility for palliative care services.


Question: What should I ask my doctor after I've been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Questions to ask your doctor after your diagnosis of multiple sclerosis: What kind of multiple sclerosis do I have? Could anything else be causing my symptoms? Will I have new symptoms? Will they get worse over time? What can I do at home to manage my symptoms? What drugs and other treatments do you recommend for me? How will I know if the drugs are working? What side effects should I expect, and how should I handle them? Can exercise or physical therapy help me feel better? Will MS affect my sex life? Can I have children? Are there any local support groups?


Question: What causes breast density?

Answer: Things that affect your breast density include: Age: Young women tend to have denser breasts than older women. Most women's breasts lose density as they age, though not always. Heredity: If your mother had dense breasts, you probably will, too. Menopause: Most women's breasts become more fatty after they go through menopause. Hormones: Hormone replacement therapy and birth control pills can make breasts more dense. Breastfeeding: Dense breast tissue is involved in milk production. It can make your breasts more dense.


Question: Which women are more like to have dense breasts?

Answer: Women over age 40 are about evenly split between having dense and non-dense breasts, with most falling into one of the middle two categories (scattered or heterogeneous density.) Only about 10% of women have breasts that are either mostly fatty or extremely dense.


Question: How is breast density measured?

Answer: Measuring the density of your breasts is not an exact science. It's a judgment made by your radiologist. Based on what they see on the X-ray, they assign your breasts to one of four categories: Mostly fatty: Breasts have the least amount of fibrous tissue. Scattered areas of density: Most of the breast is fat, but some areas are dense. Heterogeneously dense: Most of the breast is dense tissue with some areas of fat. Extremely dense: The breasts have almost no fatty tissue.


Question: How is an ultrasound used to screen for breast density?

Answer: Ultrasound : Technicians use sound waves to make images of the inside of the breast.


Question: How is a digital breast tomosynthesis used to screen for breast density?

Answer: Digital breast tomosynthesis ( DBT): This is a special kind of mammogram that takes pictures from different angles and puts them together to produce a 3- D image.


Question: What are some of the early symptoms of a stroke?

Answer: That's what leads to the first symptoms you have, which can seem like some part of your brain quickly went offline. You might be grabbing milk from the fridge and suddenly your face feels funny. Or sitting at your desk and realize you can't budge your arm to answer the phone. Or you're in the middle of a sentence when you start slurring your words. In seconds, you go from totally fine to totally not. Any one of those three signs -- face drooping, arm weakness, and trouble talking -- means someone needs to call 911. Don't wait. And don't call your doctor or family members first.


Question: Is research still being done on the effectiveness of immunotherapy for treating cancer?

Answer: Several immunotherapy drugs have been approved to fight cancer, and hundreds more are being tested in clinical trials (research studies that use volunteers to test new medicines). If immunotherapy seems like the best way to fight your cancer, your doctor may know of a clinical trial you can join.


Question: Should I ask my doctor if immunotherapy is right to treat my cancer?

Answer: Immunotherapy drugs help your immune system work harder or make it easier for it to find and get rid of cancer cells. Several immunotherapy drugs have been approved to fight cancer, and hundreds more are being tested in clinical trials (research studies that use volunteers to test new medicines). If immunotherapy seems like the best way to fight your cancer, your doctor may know of a clinical trial you can join.


Question: Can immunotherapy work when other cancer treatments don't?

Answer: There are many reasons your doctor might think immunotherapy is a good choice for you: Immunotherapy may work when other treatments don't. Some cancers (like skin cancer) don't respond well to radiation or chemotherapy but start to go away after immunotherapy.


Question: Will my body get used to the immunotherapy used to treat my cancer?

Answer: Over time, immunotherapy may stop having an effect on your cancer cells. This means that even if it works at first, your tumor could start to grow again.


Question: Is immunotherapy a quick fix to treat my cancer?

Answer: In some cases, immunotherapy takes longer to work than other treatments. Your cancer may not go away quickly.


Question: How will I know if immunotherapy is right for treating my cancer?

Answer: If your doctor suggests immunotherapy to fight your cancer, there's a lot to talk to them about before you decide if it's right for you.


Question: How is a hernia diagnosed?

Answer: A physical exam by your health care provider is often enough to diagnose a hernia. Sometimes hernia swelling is visible when you stand upright; usually, the hernia can be felt if you place your hand directly over it and then bear down. Ultrasound may be used to see a femoral hernia, and abdominal X-rays may be ordered to determine if a bowel obstruction is present.


Question: What are the treatments for a hernia?

Answer: In babies, umbilical hernias may heal themselves within four years, making surgery unnecessary. For all others, the standard treatment is conventional hernia-repair surgery (called herniorrhaphy).


Question: What medical problems should you tell your doctor about before using alprostadil?

Answer: If you are allergic to any other substances such as drugs, foods, preservatives, or dyes If you take any prescription or over-the-counter drugs including herbal and dietary supplements If you have a penile implant If you have a history of priapism (a painful and prolonged erection not linked to sexual stimulation) Also, tell your doctor if you have any medical problems, especially: Problems with your penis, such as curvature or birth defects Bleeding problems Penile infection Red or itchy penis Conditions that cause thickened or slower blood flow such as leukemia (cancer of the blood), sickle cell disease or trait, or thrombocythemia (high number of platelets) If you take a blood thinner or you bruise or bleed easily Peyronie's disease If you can't take this medicine, your doctor can recommend other treatments.


Question: How does alprostadil treat erectile dysfunction (ED)?

Answer: It's only available by prescription. var s_context; s_context= s_context || {}; s_context['wb.modimp'] = 'vidfloat'; if(webmd.useragent && webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop'){ webmd.ads2.disable Initial Load(); webmd.ads2.disable Ads Init = true; $(function() { webmd.p.pim.increment(); $('.responsive-video-container').insert After('.module-social-share-container'); require(['video2/1/responsive-player/video-loader'], function(video Loader) { video Loader.init({ autoplay: webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop' && ! !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } This drug makes the blood vessels expand. That boosts blood flow throughout the body, including the penis, so it helps men with ED have an erection. You can get alprostadil injected directly into the penis. Or you can use it as suppository, placing it into the opening at the tip of the penis.


Question: Who shouldn't take alprostadil for erectile dysfunction (ED)?

Answer: This drug is not right for everyone. Before you take it, tell your doctor: If you have ever had an allergic reaction to alprostadil.


Question: How do I use the alprostadil suppository?

Answer: The small amount of urine left in the urethra will help dissolve the suppository. The suppository is about half the size of a grain of rice. You'll insert it into the urethra (the opening at the end of the penis) using a plastic applicator. You can use a small amount of lubricant like KY Jelly or Astroglide to help you insert the applicator. Push the button on the applicator to deliver the suppository into the urethra. To help dissolve the suppository once inside, roll your penis between your hands for 10 seconds. If you feel any stinging, continue this motion to help that feeling stop. Sit, stand, or walk for 10 minutes to boost blood flow to your penis to help with an erection. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.


Question: How do I know which form of alprostadil is right for me?

Answer: Choosing between the injection and suppository is a personal choice. Talk to your doctor about the pros and cons. For example, the injection may be more painful, but it's more effective than the suppository.


Question: What are good sleep habits if you have a lot of stress?

Answer: Getting a good night's sleep can help you fight stress the next day. Go for at least 7 hours a night. Try these tips if you're having trouble: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day -- even on the weekends. Avoid caffeine after 3 p.m. and alcohol close to bedtime. If you take naps, do so early in the day rather than too close to bedtime. Exercise regularly, and try to exercise early in the day.


Question: How much exercise do I need to do to lower stress?

Answer: To get your heart rate up with an aerobic exercise: Walk Cycle Swim Just 20 minutes a day will help calm your mind and lower stress hormones. Exercise also boosts endorphins, brain chemicals that improve your mood. Even light exercise can relax you, though harder workouts offer greater health rewards. Check with your doctor before you start a new exercise program.


Question: What is guided imagery for stress?

Answer: This technique has the same relaxation benefits of deep breathing. Here's how it works: Sit somewhere quiet and picture yourself in a calm and peaceful place, such as a beach. Imagine walking through this place and taking in its sights, sounds, and smells. While your imagination is working, breathe slowly and deeply. Keep this up until you are fully relaxed. Ease back slowly into the real world.


Question: How can I learn guided imagery to help with stress management?

Answer: To get started, you can search online for podcasts that will talk you through the process. Nurses, counselors, therapists, or other professionals can also help you learn how to do this on your own.


Question: Is meditation good for stress?

Answer: This ancient practice relaxes your mind and the body. For several minutes each day, sit quietly and comfortably. While you do this, focus your mind on one of these things: Your breathing An object A specific word or phrase (mantra) As thoughts and distractions intrude, gently push them away. Return to your focus. You can do meditation alone or with a group. To get your heart rate up with an aerobic exercise: Walk Cycle Swim Just 20 minutes a day will help calm your mind and lower stress hormones.


Question: What should you know about seizures in children?

Answer: Here is a simplified explanation: Your brain is made up of billions of nerve cells called neurons, which communicate with one another through tiny electrical impulses. A seizure occurs when a large number of the cells send out an electrical charge at the same time. This abnormal and intense wave of electricity overwhelms the brain and results in a seizure, which can cause muscle spasms, a loss of consciousness, strange behavior, or other symptoms. Anyone can have a seizure under certain circumstances. For instance, a fever, lack of oxygen, head trauma, or illness could bring on a seizure. People are diagnosed with epilepsy when they have seizures that occur more than once without such a specific cause. In most cases -- about seven out of 10 -- the cause of the seizures can't be identified. This type of seizure is called "idiopathic" or "cryptogenic," meaning that we don't know what causes them. The problem may be with an uncontrolled firing of neurons in the brain that triggers a seizure.


Question: What should you know about diagnosing seizures in children?

Answer: Nobody misses a grand mal (generalized tonic-clonic) seizure," says William R. Turk, MD, chief of the Neurology Division at the Nemours Children's Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. " You can't help but notice when a person falls to the ground, shakes, and sleeps for three hours." But absence or staring seizures may go unnoticed for years. Turk says you shouldn't worry if your child gazes open-mouthed at cartoons on TV, or stares out the window in the car. Most kids who appear to be daydreaming really are just daydreaming. Instead, watch for spells that come at inappropriate times, such as when your child is in the middle of speaking or doing something, and suddenly stops. Other kinds of seizures, such as simple or complex partial seizures, can be mistaken for different conditions, such as migraines, psychological illness, or even drug or alcohol intoxication. Medical tests are an important part of diagnosing seizures. Your child's doctor will certainly do a physical exam and blood tests. The doctor may also order an EEG to check the electrical activity in the brain, or request a brain scan such as an MRI with a specific epilepsy protocol.


Question: What are the long-term effects of seizures on the brain?

Answer: In the past, most scientists thought that seizures did not cause any damage to the brain, attributing brain damage in an individual to an underlying illness. Now, however, some doubts are beginning to emerge. Solomon L. Moshe, MD, director of Clinical Neurophysiology and Child Neurology at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York, is researching the subject and remains cautious. " I don't think it's good to say one way or another whether seizures do long-term damage," he says. " I think it all depends on the individual case." Moshe notes that the brains of children are very flexible. They are perhaps the least likely people with epilepsy to suffer any brain damage from a seizure.


Question: What are some dangerous seizures in children?

Answer: Status epilepticus is more common among people with epilepsy, but about one-third of the people who develop the condition have never had a seizure before. The risks of status epilepticus increase the longer the seizure goes on, which is why you should always get emergency medical help if a seizure lasts more than five minutes. You may also hear about a condition called Sudden Unexplained Death, in which a person dies for no known reason. It can happen to anyone, but it's more likely to happen in a person with epilepsy. The causes aren't known, but parents of children with epilepsy should know that it's a very rare occurrence. Controlling seizures, especially those that occur in sleep, is the most effective plan for helping to prevent this tragedy from occurring.


Question: How are seizures in children diagnosed?

Answer: Diagnosing a seizure can be tricky. Seizures are over so quickly that your doctor probably will never see your child having one. The first thing a doctor needs to do is rule out other conditions, such as nonepileptic seizures. These may resemble seizures, but are often caused by other factors such as drops in blood sugar or pressure, changes in heart rhythm, or emotional stress.


Question: What research is being done on seizures in children?

Answer: The research into the genetics of seizures is helping experts discover the particular ways different types of seizures occur. Eventually, this may lead to tailored treatments for each type of seizure that causes epilepsy.


Question: How should I tell my family about my melanoma diagnosis?

Answer: Who you tell about your diagnosis is completely up to you. When you're deciding, it helps to keep some things in mind: If you have melanoma, it means your parents, siblings, and children have a higher risk for skin cancer, too. So your information could help them protect their own health. If you have kids, you can tell them as much about your diagnosis as you think they can handle, based on their age or how mature they are. But be prepared to have more than one conversation with them about it.


Question: How can I be sure that my melanoma diagnosis is true?

Answer: Melanoma can be tricky to diagnose and to treat. You don't have to take your doctor's word as the final say on either of them. Think about asking another specialist to confirm the diagnosis and to discuss your options for treatment.


Question: When should I tell my family about my melanoma diagnosis and how much should I tell them?

Answer: Don't let yourself be rushed. You can decide if and when you're ready to reveal information. It's OK to put limits on how much you say.


Question: Where can I find information on melanoma?

Answer: Your doctor is a good starting point for information, but you can also look up support networks and online message boards. Be sure you're looking at information from reliable, well-known groups, though. Also, keep in mind that what some people went through with melanoma may not happen to you.


Question: Why is early diagnosis of osteosarcoma important?

Answer: Treatment works best when it's started before the cancer spreads beyond the bones to other tissues or organs. Most tumors are found early because kids speak up about pain or parents notice swelling or a limp. So let the doctor know about warning signs like these as soon as possible.


Question: What treatments are available for osteosarcoma?

Answer: There are different kinds of treatment for osteosarcoma. It depends on several things, such as where the tumor is, how fast it's growing, and whether it has spread. Age and overall health are also factored in. Most people with osteosarcoma need both surgery and chemotherapy. Some also get radiation therapy.


Question: When is treatment for osteosarcoma most effective?

Answer: Treatment works best when it's started before the cancer spreads beyond the bones to other tissues or organs. Most tumors are found early because kids speak up about pain or parents notice swelling or a limp. So let the doctor know about warning signs like these as soon as possible.


Question: What causes osteosarcoma?

Answer: The condition stems from an error in your child's DNA, or genetic code. Bone-growing cells make osteosarcoma tumors by mistake. Teenagers who are having a âgrowth spurtâ are most likely to get it, and taller kids may be more at risk. There may also be a link between the speed of the growth spurt and tumor development, but scientists are still studying this. Treatments like radiation therapy for other types of cancer, or cancer medicines called alkylating agents, can also make this disease more likely. Certain illnesses, like Paget's disease of the bone or a type of eye cancer called hereditary retinoblastoma, may also raise the risk.


Question: What are the warning signs of osteosarcoma?

Answer: Warning signs include: Swelling or lumps around bones or the ends of bones. Bone or joint pain or soreness. This pain may come and go for months. Broken bones that don't seem to be caused by normal events like a fall. Your child may have pain at night or after he plays or exercises. He might get a limp if osteosarcoma affects his legs. Tell your doctor about these symptoms right away. Your child may need to be tested to see if cancer is causing the pain, swelling, or breaks.


Question: How is chemotherapy used to treat osteosarcoma?

Answer: â Chemoâ uses powerful medications to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. You usually get them through an IV tube. Doctors treat most osteosarcomas with chemo. Your child's doctor will talk with you about the timing of the chemo and surgery. Chemo may shrink the tumor, which makes surgery easier. It also gets rid of small clusters of cancer cells in the body that doctors may not be able to see on medical scans. Children tend to have less severe side effects from chemo than adults. Because of this, your child's cancer doctor may use higher doses of chemo to try to kill the tumor. Some side effects may include nausea and vomiting, not feeling hungry, and diarrhea.


Question: What does a biopsy for osteosarcoma entail?

Answer: If your doctor sees signs of the disease on imaging tests, your child may need a biopsy. A surgeon will take a small sample of bone or tissue from a painful or swollen area. This test may show cancer cells in the bone, or if cancer cells have spread to muscles or other areas around the bone.


Question: Who is most likely to get osteosarcoma?

Answer: Osteosarcoma, sometimes called osteogenic sarcoma, is the most common kind of bone cancer in children and teens. It can affect adults, too, but teenage boys are most likely to get it.


Question: What should I do if my child has symptoms of osteosarcoma?

Answer: Tell your doctor about these symptoms right away. Your child may need to be tested to see if cancer is causing the pain, swelling, or breaks.


Question: Can I get herpes through oral sex?

Answer: Oral herpes, which causes sores on the mouth (known as cold sores of fever blisters), can be passed to the genitals through oral sex.


Question: What should I do if my partner has symptoms of genital herpes?

Answer: If you know your partner has genital herpes, always abstain from sex when symptoms are present. Or, if you see a sore on someone's genitals, don't have sex with that person until you're sure he or she doesn't have genital herpes. Remember, not everyone with genital herpes has symptoms, and herpes sores can be very hard to spot.


Question: How can I be sure not to get genital herpes?

Answer: The only way to be 100% certain you won't get a sexually transmitted disease is to have just one sex partner who has no STDs -- and only if both of you stay monogamous.


Question: Will condoms help keep me from getting herpes?

Answer: A latex condom may protect you from the herpes virus if it covers the infected area.


Question: What is an posterior wall prolapse?

Answer: â Posteriorâ means back. These prolapses happen when the tissue between your vagina and rectum (the end of your large bowel) stretches or separates from the bones in your pelvis. There are two kinds of posterior wall prolapse: Rectocele. Doctors also call this a ârectal wall prolapse.â It happens when your rectum drops down and forward and then bulges into the back wall of your vagina. Rectal prolapse. This is different than a rectocele or rectal wall prolapse. With a rectal prolapse, part of your rectum turns inside out and pokes out through your anus. At first, you might think it's a big hemorrhoid.


Question: What is an apical prolapse?

Answer: â Apicalâ means near the apex, or top. There are three kinds of apical prolapse: Enterocele. If you have this, it means your small intestine has dropped down and is bulging into the upper part of the back wall of your vagina. This can also happen at the top of your vagina, where the intestine sits on top and sinks down into it. Uterine. This is when your uterus (womb) drops into your vagina. Uterine prolapses are the second most common kind of prolapse. Your risk goes up as you get older. Vaginal vault. If you've had your uterus taken out (hysterectomy), your vagina may drop down toward its opening between your legs. That's because the uterus provides support for the top of the vagina. If it's removed during surgery, there's nothing for the vagina to hold on to. In severe cases, your vagina could turn inside out and fall through the vaginal opening.


Question: What is an anterior vaginal wall prolapse?

Answer: â Anteriorâ means front. An anterior prolapse can happen if you've had your uterus taken out (hysterectomy). There are two types of prolapses that can occur in the front side of your vagina, and they're the most common kinds of pelvic organ prolapse. They are: Bladder. This is also called a âcystocele.â It happens when your bladder drops down into your vagina. A cystocele can be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how far your bladder drops. Urethra. When your bladder prolapses, the tube that carries pee out of your body (the urethra) can prolapse, too. Your doctor might call this a âurethrocele.â If both your bladder and urethra prolapse, it's called a âcystourethrocele.â As these prolapses get worse, you might feel -- and see -- them bulging out of your vagina.


Question: Do I need professional help with grieving?

Answer: Doctors call this âcomplicated grief.â Talk to your doctor if you have any of the following: Trouble keeping up your normal routine, like going to work and cleaning the house Feelings of depression Thoughts that life isn't worth living, or of harming yourself Any inability to stop blaming yourself A therapist can help you explore your emotions. She can also teach you coping skills and help you manage your grief. If you're depressed, a doctor may be able to prescribe medicines to help you feel better.


Question: Does everyone go through the stages of grief?

Answer: Every person goes through these phases in his or her own way. You may go back and forth between them, or skip one or more stages altogether.


Question: When should you talk to the doctor about grief?

Answer: In some cases, grief doesn't get better. You may not be able to accept the loss. Doctors call this âcomplicated grief.â Talk to your doctor if you have any of the following: Trouble keeping up your normal routine, like going to work and cleaning the house Feelings of depression Thoughts that life isn't worth living, or of harming yourself Any inability to stop blaming yourself A therapist can help you explore your emotions.


Question: What are tips to come to terms with a loss and healthily grieve?

Answer: Instead, try these things to help you come to terms with your loss and begin to heal: Give yourself time. Accept your feelings and know that grieving is a process. Talk to others. Spend time with friends and family. Don't isolate yourself. Take care of yourself. Exercise regularly, eat well, and get enough sleep to stay healthy and energized. Return to your hobbies. Get back to the activities that bring you joy. Join a support group. Speak with others who are also grieving. It can help you feel more connected.


Question: What is the denial and anger phase of grief?

Answer: Doctors have identified five common stages of grief: Denial: When you first learn of a loss, it's normal to think, â This isn't happening.â You may feel shocked or numb. This is a temporary way to deal with the rush of overwhelming emotion. It's a defense mechanism. Anger: As reality sets in, you're faced with the pain of your loss. You may feel frustrated and helpless. These feelings later turn into anger. You might direct it toward other people, a higher power, or life in general. To be angry with a loved one who died and left you alone is natural, too.


Question: What are the bargaining, depression, and acceptance stages of grief?

Answer: Bargaining: During this stage, you dwell on what you could've done to prevent the loss. Common thoughts are â If onlyâ¦â and â What ifâ¦â You may also try to strike a deal with a higher power. Depression: Sadness sets in as you begin to understand the loss and its effect on your life. Signs of depression include crying, sleep issues, and a decreased appetite. You may feel overwhelmed, regretful, and lonely. Acceptance: In this final stage of grief, you accept the reality of your loss. It can't be changed. Although you still feel sad, you're able to start moving forward with your life.


Question: What are warnings about children and adolescents using antidepressant medicines?

Answer: Note: The FDA has determined that antidepressant medications can increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders. If you have questions or concerns, discuss them with your health care provider.


Question: Where can you find a holistic provider?

Answer: This may include diet, exercise, psychotherapy, relationship and spiritual counseling, and more Complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, homeopathy, massage therapy, naturopathy, and others Western medications and surgical procedures Holistic providers may include medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy, naturopathic doctors, chiropractors, and homeopathic doctors. To find a holistic practitioner in your area, visit the American Holistic Medical Association web site.


Question: What are the principles of holistic medicine?

Answer: Holistic medicine is also based on the belief that unconditional love and support is the most powerful healer and a person is ultimately responsible for his or her own health and well-being. Other principles of holistic medicine include the following: All people have innate healing powers. The patient is a person, not a disease. Healing takes a team approach involving the patient and doctor, and addresses all aspects of a person's life using a variety of health care practices. Treatment involves fixing the cause of the condition, not just alleviating the symptoms.


Question: What are some tips when choosing a holistic provider?

Answer: Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing a holistic provider: Don't go to just anyone. As with all professionals, there are those who are good at their jobs and those who are not as good. Before choosing a holistic medicine doctor, get a recommendation from someone you trust, or contact a credible health organization and ask for a recommendation. Do your homework. When selecting a holistic doctor, find out as much as you can about that person's training, experience, specialty, and association with professional organizations and hospital affiliations. Is he or she board certified in holistic medicine by a credible medical board? Also, consider the doctor's treatment philosophy. Is it similar to your own views? How do you feel? Consider how comfortable you are with the provider. Does he or she make you feel at ease? Is the provider respectful of your concerns and beliefs? Remember, holistic medicine takes a team approach, involving you and the provider, so make sure you feel comfortable and respected and that he or she is someone with whom you would like to work. Appointment time. Choose a provider who will spend enough time with you so that he or she can gain a full understanding of your needs. Are the right questions being asked? In order to understand you as a whole person and not just a disease, be prepared to answer lots of questions, including questions about your diet, exercise, sleep habits, how you feel emotionally, your religious beliefs and practices, close relationships, and more. Treatment options. When determining a treatment approach, does the wellness plan go beyond pills? Make sure the practitioner examines all lifestyle factors, along with medical factors that could be contributing to your illness.


Question: How can you treat pain all over your body from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Treatment: Your doctor will consider what kind of medicine you need. You might take a pain reliever like acetaminophen or use a skin gel with a pain reliever like lidocaine. Your doctor could prescribe medications for seizures or depression. They affect how your central nervous system reacts to pain. You can also try warm compresses or pressure gloves. They help change the pain to warmth.


Question: What is the treatment for muscle pain from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Treatment: Your doctor may recommend pain relievers and drugs to ease muscle spasms. Even Botox shots can help by temporarily paralyzing a muscle or nerve. Stretches and range-of-motion exercises may also help.


Question: What are specific methods for helping to deal with pain from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Those might include: Drugs that also treat depression Botox to relax certain muscles in your head You may want to ask your doctor about other methods, like hypnosis, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, in which you learn new ways to respond to problems. It's also important to reach out to your loved ones. Social support is good for you! So let them know what's going on and how they can help.


Question: What is the treatment for all-over pain from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Treatment: Your doctor will consider what kind of medicine you need. You might take a pain reliever like acetaminophen or use a skin gel with a pain reliever like lidocaine. Your doctor could prescribe medications for seizures or depression. They affect how your central nervous system reacts to pain. You can also try warm compresses or pressure gloves.


Question: What is the treatment for back and bone pain from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Treatment: You can work with a physical therapist. Also try massage and heat. Practice meditation, tai chi, or yoga. Over-the-counter pain-relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin can help.


Question: What can you do to treat multiple sclerosis pain?

Answer: Those might include: Drugs that also treat depression Botox to relax certain muscles in your head You may want to ask your doctor about other methods, like hypnosis, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, in which you learn new ways to respond to problems. It's also important to reach out to your loved ones. Social support is good for you! So let them know what's going on and how they can help.


Question: What is multiple sclerosis pain like in your neck?

Answer: You may feel a brief shock when you nod your head forward. It can travel down your spine and into your arms and legs.


Question: How is multiple sclerosis pain treated in your back and bones?

Answer: Treatment: You can work with a physical therapist. Also try massage and heat. Practice meditation, tai chi, or yoga. Over-the-counter pain-relievers like ibuprofen and aspirin can help.


Question: How is multiple sclerosis pain in your muscles treated?

Answer: Treatment: Your doctor may recommend pain relievers and drugs to ease muscle spasms. Even Botox shots can help by temporarily paralyzing a muscle or nerve. Stretches and range-of-motion exercises may also help.


Question: What is multiple sclerosis pain like all over your body?

Answer: Your feet, legs, and arms might burn and ache. In the early stages of the disease, you might feel a tightness around your belly or chest that gets worse at night, after exercise, or with changes in temperature.


Question: How can you treat multiple sclerosis pain on your face?

Answer: Treatment: Your doctor may prescribe anti-seizure drugs. If your case is severe and medicine doesn't help, you may need minor surgery to block those pain pathways.


Question: How is multiple sclerosis pain in your neck treated?

Answer: Treatment: The simplest, most effective treatment is to wear a soft neck collar to hold your head steady. Your doctor may prescribe an anti-seizure drug.


Question: What is multiple sclerosis pain like in your muscles?

Answer: You may be gripped by a sudden spasm, in which your arm tightens, your hand claws at the air, or your leg kicks out. These painful movements generally happen in the later stages of MS. Triggers include touch, movement, and emotion.


Question: What is the treatment for face or head pain from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Treatment: Your doctor may prescribe anti-seizure drugs. If your case is severe and medicine doesn't help, you may need minor surgery to block those pain pathways.


Question: What is the treatment for aching head pain caused by multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Treatment: Talk to your doctor or a headache specialist about the best medications. Those might include: Drugs that also treat depression Botox to relax certain muscles in your head You may want to ask your doctor about other methods, like hypnosis, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, in which you learn new ways to respond to problems.


Question: Does multiple sclerosis cause pain throughout the body?

Answer: Your feet, legs, and arms might burn and ache. In the early stages of the disease, you might feel a tightness around your belly or chest that gets worse at night, after exercise, or with changes in temperature. It's called the â MS hug.â It could make surprising things uncomfortable, such as the feel of your bedcovers or getting dressed.


Question: Where does the pain from multiple sclerosis come from?

Answer: The pain can affect different places in your body. It depends on the cause: Damage to the neurons in your brain and spine Aches in your bones, joints, and muscles Lots of things affect what you feel, including how long you've had MS, your age, and how active you are.


Question: Does multiple sclerosis cause muscle pain?

Answer: You may be gripped by a sudden spasm, in which your arm tightens, your hand claws at the air, or your leg kicks out. These painful movements generally happen in the later stages of MS. Triggers include touch, movement, and emotion.


Question: How is multiple sclerosis pain in your head treated?

Answer: Treatment: Talk to your doctor or a headache specialist about the best medications. Those might include: Drugs that also treat depression Botox to relax certain muscles in your head You may want to ask your doctor about other methods, like hypnosis, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, in which you learn new ways to respond to problems.


Question: Does multiple sclerosis cause aching head pain?

Answer: It could be a migraine. People with MS are three times more likely to have them.


Question: What is the risk of hypnotherapy?

Answer: Hypnotherapy is not a dangerous procedure. It is not mind control or brainwashing. A therapist cannot make a person do something embarrassing or that the person doesn't want to do. The greatest risk, as discussed above, is that false memories can be created.


Question: How does hypnotherapy work?

Answer: Hypnotherapy is usually considered an aid to psychotherapy (counseling), rather than a treatment in itself. It helps with psychotherapy because the hypnotic state allows people to enter a deep state of relaxation that can better allow them to explore painful thoughts, feelings, and memories they might have hidden from their conscious minds. In addition, hypnosis enables people to perceive some things differently, such as blocking an awareness of pain.


Question: What is hypnotherapy?

Answer: The person's attention is so focused while in this state that anything going on around the person is temporarily blocked out or ignored. In this naturally occurring state, a person may focus his or her attention -- with the help of a trained hypnotherapist -- on specific thoughts or tasks.


Question: What is cardiac catheterization?

Answer: Cardiac catheterization (also called cardiac cath or coronary angiogram) is an invasive imaging procedure that allows your doctor to "see" how well your heart is supplied by blood vessels.


Question: What are the risks of cardiac cath?

Answer: Risks of a cardiac cath are uncommon but can include: Bleeding around the point of puncture Abnormal heart rhythms Blood clots Infection Allergic reaction to the dye Stroke Heart attack Perforation of a blood vessel Air embolism (introduction of air into a blood vessel, which can be life-threatening) Death Be sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have before undergoing the procedure.


Question: How long does a cardiac cath last?

Answer: A cardiac cath procedure usually takes about 30 minutes (and longer if you undergo an intervention), but the preparation and recovery time add several hours. Plan on being at the hospital all day for the procedure.


Question: Why do I need a cardiac cath?

Answer: Your doctor uses cardiac cath to: Evaluate or confirm the presence of heart disease (such as coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, or disease of the aorta) Evaluate heart muscle function Determine the need for further treatment (such as an interventional procedure or bypass surgery) At most medical centers, interventional procedures to open blocked arteries are performed after the diagnostic part of the cardiac cath is complete.


Question: What are lysosomal storage disorders?

Answer: Lysosomal storage disorders are a group of more than 50 rare diseases. They affect the lysosome -- a structure in your cells that breaks down substances such as proteins, carbohydrates, and old cell parts so the body can recycle them. People with these disorders are missing important enzymes (proteins that speed up reactions in the body). Without those enzymes, the lysosome isn't able to break down these substances. When that happens, they build up in cells and become toxic. They can damage cells and organs in the body.


Question: What is PSA velocity?

Answer: Several studies indicate that when PSA levels increase sharply in the months before surgery, the cancer is likely to be aggressive.


Question: What is localized prostate cancer?

Answer: At this stage, the tumor is confined to the prostate.


Question: What is the future for predicting prostate cancer?

Answer: Researchers are seeking more accurate ways of diagnosing, monitoring, and treating prostate cancer. Many of the studies focus on genes and genetic abnormalities of a cancer. Scientists have found that the product of a certain gene appears more often in advanced prostate cancers than in early stage prostate cancers. Now the goal is to determine if the presence of this gene product means that a cancer is more aggressive. Knowing this information can help doctors decide which patients may benefit from immediate treatment, and of what type. This and other genetic research will pave the way for earlier, more accurate predictors of cancer growth.


Question: How do doctors assess advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, your doctor will probably evaluate several factors to determine how aggressive it is. These "markers" identify whether the cancer is low risk, intermediate risk, or high risk. Low-risk prostate cancer is slow growing and not likely to spread quickly. High-risk prostate cancer is aggressive, meaning it is likely to spread quickly outside the prostate. Understanding the risk level of your cancer will help your doctor decide on the treatment that's right for you. Your doctor will look at key "markers" for aggressive cancer, as well as the "stage" of your specific cancer.


Question: What are prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels for prostate cancer?

Answer: PSA is a substance produced by the prostate gland. It is normal to secrete small amounts of PSA into the bloodstream. Larger amounts of PSA in the bloodstream usually signal that the prostate gland is enlarged, infected, or malignant. PSA levels are determined by a simple blood test. The higher the number, the more likely the patient is to have prostate cancer.


Question: How do computerized tomography (CT) scans predict prostate cancer?

Answer: CT scans make computerized X-ray images that produce cross-sectional images of the body. These detailed images can reveal disease or abnormalities in tissue and bone.


Question: How do bone scans predict prostate cancer?

Answer: Imaging techniques currently used include: Bone scans create images of bones on a computer screen or film. The patient is injected with a small amount of radioactive material that travels through the bloodstream. The computer screen detects radioactive material that has collected in abnormal areas of the bone.


Question: What is metastatic prostate cancer?

Answer: The tumor has spread to the distant lymph nodes or more distant parts of the body.


Question: What is regional prostate cancer?

Answer: The tumor has grown through the prostate capsule, either into the seminal vesicles (a pair of glands next to the prostate) or into nearby muscles and organs.


Question: What are considerations when using a birth control implant?

Answer: You'll need to: Wear a bandage for 48 hours Keep the area dry for 24 hours You shouldn't use birth control implants if you think you may already be pregnant or you have: Sensitivity to any part of the implant Unexplained vaginal bleeding Breast cancer (now or in the past) Liver disease or liver tumors History of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) Use it with caution if you have: Diabetes High cholesterol Seizure disorder You've ever had depression. Also, the implants may not work as well if you're very overweight. Some medications can make birth control implants less effective. Ask your doctor about that.


Question: Can any woman use birth control implants?

Answer: You'll need to: Wear a bandage for 48 hours Keep the area dry for 24 hours You shouldn't use birth control implants if you think you may already be pregnant or you have: Sensitivity to any part of the implant Unexplained vaginal bleeding Breast cancer (now or in the past) Liver disease or liver tumors History of blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) Use it with caution if you have: Diabetes High cholesterol Seizure disorder You've ever had depression.


Question: What are the risks of using birth control implants?

Answer: Possible side effects include problems from putting the implant in, like: Pain Bruising or swelling Redness Infection Scarring Other possible side effects include: Irregular menstrual bleeding Depression and other mood changes Weight gain Abdominal pain or nausea Acne Breast pain, back pain, or headaches Vaginitis Dizziness Noncancerous ovarian cysts Your doctor or another health care professional will inject medicine to numb your skin on your upper arm, where you'll get the implant.


Question: Who is sedation dentistry good for?

Answer: Sedation is most appropriate for people with a real fear or anxiety that is preventing them from going to the dentist. Sedation dentistry may also be appropriate for people who: have a low pain threshold can't sit still in the dentist's chair have very sensitive teeth have a bad gag reflex need a large amount of dental work completed Sometimes, children are given sedation if they are terrified of going to the dentist or refuse to cooperate during the visit.


Question: What is elephantiasis?

Answer: Elephantiasis, also known as lymphatic filariasis, is a very rare condition that's spread by mosquitoes. The common name is often used because if you have it, your arms and legs can swell and become much bigger than they should be. Your sex organs and breasts may also swell up. The affected skin can thicken and harden to look something like an elephant's skin. It's more common to people who live in tropical or subtropical areas.


Question: How can I control itching and swelling caused by hives and angioedema?

Answer: Give an adult an over-the-counter antihistamine. Check with a doctor before giving an antihistamine to a child. Put a cool compress on the area or have the person take a cool shower. Avoid strong soaps, detergents, and other chemicals that can make itching worse.


Question: What triggers sudden hives and angioedema?

Answer: Hives and angioedema that happen suddenly are usually triggered by an allergic reaction to a food, drug, or insect bite or sting. If you know what the trigger is, keep the person away from it if possible.


Question: How is an additional staging tests used to diagnose stomach cancer?

Answer: In order to determine the severity of stomach cancer, other tests such as a bone scan, PET scan, or laparoscopy may be performed.


Question: How is a computed tomography (CT) scan used to diagnose stomach cancer?

Answer: A computed tomography ( CT) scan can give your doctor detailed pictures of structures inside of the body using X-rays. This test is used after a stomach cancer is diagnosed in order to determine the stage of the cancer. To evaluate whether the tumor has spread to the lymph nodes or other organs, the chest, abdomen, and pelvis are scanned. The CT scan can also detect fluid in the abdomen (ascites) as well as abdominal and pelvic nodules.


Question: How is surgery used to treat stomach cancer?

Answer: Treatments for stomach cancer may include one or more of the following: Surgery, called gastrectomy, removes all or part of the stomach, as well as some of the tissue surrounding the stomach. Lymph nodes near the stomach are also removed and biopsied to check for cancer cells. For stage zero through stage 3 stomach cancer, surgery provides the only real chance for a cure at this time.


Question: How is chemotherapy used to treat stomach cancer?

Answer: Prior to surgery, chemotherapy -- with or without radiation -- is sometimes used to shrink the tumor or to make an inoperable tumor suitable for surgery (known as neo-adjuvant therapy). Radiation therapy is the use of ionizing X-rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. This is used with chemotherapy before or after surgery and sometimes both.


Question: What should I expect from an Upper GI series test for stomach cancer?

Answer: These are X-rays of the esophagus (food tube) and stomach, which is called the upper gastrointestinal ( GI) tract. You drink a barium solution, which outlines the stomach on the X-ray, helping the doctor see tumors or other abnormalities.