Question: Can back pain be a sign of a serious underlying condition?

Answer: Possibilities include: An inflammatory disease like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or ankylosing spondylitis Osteoporosis (bones losing to density as you age; may lead to fractures) Scoliosis (curved spine) Endometriosis, which occurs when tissue from the uterus grows in other parts of the body Back pain can also be a sign of a serious underlying condition that needs attention right away. For example: Infections of your vertebrae (osteomyelitis), disks (discitis), or the joints that connect your spine to your pelvis (sacroiliitis) Abdominal aortic aneurysm (when the blood vessel that supplies your belly, pelvis, and legs becomes swollen) Kidney stones (pain in the lower back, usually just on one side) Tumors (though this is rare) Fewer than 1% of people with low back pain will turn out to have a serious problem like cancer or an infection.


Question: What is spondylolisthesis?

Answer: In this condition, a vertebra slips out of place and pinches spinal nerves.


Question: What are symptoms of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD)?

Answer: The symptoms start and worsen very quickly. People with CJD often have signs of dementia, including: Confusion Trouble walking Jerky muscle movements or twitching Personality changes Trouble with memory and judgment Vision problems Sometimes people with it have trouble sleeping or become depressed. In later stages of the disease, they often lose the ability to speak or move. They may also get pneumonia or other infections, or slip into a coma.


Question: Whatâs the only way to know for sure that someone has Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD)?

Answer: The only way to know for sure someone has CJD is by taking a sample (called a biopsy) of their brain tissue, or by autopsy. Doctors don't usually biopsy brain tissue, because it's risky, both for the patient and the doctor. It's hard to target which tissue in the brain is infected, so doing a biopsy may not give helpful information. And it puts the doctor at risk of getting the disease. Since a positive diagnosis doesn't help someone with CJD, doctors often confirm cases only after someone dies of it.


Question: What question will be asked during child's allergy test?

Answer: When he sees your child, he'll: Ask about your kid's symptoms and when he has them Do a physical exam, looking for signs of allergies He'll also ask about your family history. If both parents have allergies, a child has a 75% chance of having them. If one parent has allergies, a kid has a 50% chance of having them.


Question: How does a child'sallergy test work?

Answer: The allergist may suggest skin or blood tests that can check what kind of allergy your little one has. This should tell you immediately what your child is allergic to depending on what the skin is testing, but blood tests take a few days. If the allergist thinks your child has a food allergy, he may also suggest a type of test called an "elimination diet."


Question: How is surgery used to treat frequent urination?

Answer: Several types of surgery are also available. The least invasive involve implanting small nerve stimulators just beneath the skin. The nerves they stimulate control the pelvic floor and the devices can manipulate contractions in the organs and muscles within the pelvic floor.


Question: What are some less common causes of frequent urination?

Answer: Less common causes include bladder cancer, bladder dysfunction, and radiation therapy.


Question: How is frequent urination treated?

Answer: Treatment for frequent urination will address the underlying problem that is causing it. For example, if diabetes is the cause, treatment will involve keeping blood sugar levels under control.


Question: How can interstitial cystitis cause frequent urination?

Answer: This condition of unknown cause is characterized by pain in the bladder and pelvic region. Often, symptoms include an urgent and/or frequent need to urinate.


Question: What drugs are used to treat frequent urination?

Answer: Treatment may also include drugs such as darifenacin ( Enablex), desmopressin acetate ( Noctiva), imipramine ( Tofranil), mirabegron ( Myrbetriq), oxybutynin ( Ditropan), oxybutynin skin patch ( Oxytrol), solifenacin ( Vesicare). tolterodine extended-release ( Detrol LA), and trospium extended-release ( Sanctura XR), Oxytrol for women is the only drug available over the counter. Darifenacin is specifically for people who wake up more than twice a night to urinate.


Question: When should you see a doctor about frequent urination?

Answer: When frequent urination is accompanied by fever, an urgent need to urinate, and pain or discomfort in the abdomen, you may have a urinary tract infection.


Question: What are some other options to treat frequent urination?

Answer: There are other options for those that do not respond to lifestyle changes and medication. The drug Botox can be injected into the bladder muscle causing the bladder to relax, increasing its storage capacity, and reducing episodes of leakage.


Question: How can frequent urination be a problem?

Answer: Often, frequent urination is not a symptom of a problem, but is the problem. In people with overactive bladder syndrome, involuntary bladder contractions lead to frequent and often urgent urination, meaning you have to get to a bathroom right now -- even if your bladder is not full. It may also lead you to wake up once or more during the night to use the bathroom.


Question: How can stroke or other neurological diseases cause frequent urination?

Answer: In people with overactive bladder syndrome, involuntary bladder contractions lead to frequent and often urgent urination, meaning you have to get to a bathroom right now -- even if your bladder is not full.


Question: What causes frequent urination?

Answer: Frequent urination can be a symptom of many different problems from kidney disease to simply drinking too much fluid. When frequent urination is accompanied by fever, an urgent need to urinate, and pain or discomfort in the abdomen, you may have a urinary tract infection.


Question: How can diabetes cause frequent urination?

Answer: Frequent urination with an abnormally large amount of urine is often an early symptom of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes as the body tries to rid itself of unused glucose through the urine.


Question: How can prostate problems cause frequent urination?

Answer: An enlarged prostate can press against the urethra (the tube that carries urine out the body) and block the flow of urine. This causes the bladder wall to become irritable. The bladder begins to contract even when it contains small amounts of urine, causing more frequent urination.


Question: How can pregnancy cause frequent urination?

Answer: From the early weeks of pregnancy the growing uterus places pressure on the bladder, causing frequent urination.


Question: How will your doctor diagnose frequent urination?

Answer: Do you have the problem only during the day or also at night? Are you drinking more than usual? Is your urine darker or lighter than usual? Do you drink alcohol or caffeinated beverages? Depending on the findings of the physical exam and medical history, your doctor may order tests, including: Urinalysis .


Question: How are blood tests used to diagnose Crohn's disease?

Answer: A capsule endoscopy uses a pill with a camera inside that is swallowed and takes pictures of the small intestine Blood tests: When testing the blood, the doctor will look for signs of anemia or a high white blood cell count that could indicate inflammation or infection somewhere in the body.


Question: How is Crohn's disease treated?

Answer: The goals for treatment are: to reduce inflammation to relieve symptoms of pain, diarrhea, and bleeding to eliminate nutritional deficiencies Treatment might involve drugs, nutritional supplements, surgery, or a combination of these therapies. Treatment choices depend upon where the disease is located and how severe it is. They also depend on the complications associated with the disease and the way the person has responded in the past to treatment when symptoms recurred.


Question: What biologic drugs are used to treat Crohn's disease?

Answer: Immunosuppressants prescribed for Crohn's disease include: azathioprine ( Azasan, Imuran) cyclosporine 6-mercaptopurine (6 MP, Purinethol) tacrolimus ( Prograf) Methotrexate ( MTX, Rheumatrex, Trexall) Side effects of immunosuppressants may include: diarrhea higher susceptibility to infection nausea vomiting Biologic drugs such as infliximab ( Remicade) or infliximab-dyyb ( Inflectra), a biosimilar to Remicade, are often prescribed when a person with Crohn's disease does not respond to the standard treatments of 5 ASA-containing drugs, corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants. Infliximab is an antibody that attaches itself to the inflammation-promoting protein, tumor-necrosis factor-alpha ( TNF-alpha). Other anti- TNF medications are adalimumab ( Humira) and adalimumab-atto ( Amjevita), a biosimilar to Humira. These drugs are also used to treat other immune system disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis. Certolizumab ( Cimzia) is another anti- TNF blocker approved for Crohn's disease. There are other biologic alternatives to the anti- TNF blockers. Two drugs block alpha-4 integrin -- natalizumab ( Tysabri) and vedolizumab ( Entyvio). Ustekinumab ( Stelara) works in another way by targeting other proteins, IL-12 and IL-23.


Question: What other substances may be prescribed to treat Crohn's disease?

Answer: Other substances that may be prescribed to treat Crohn's include: Antibiotics to treat bacterial infections and overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine; types of antibiotics commonly prescribed include: ampicillin ( Omnipen)cephalosporinsfluoroquinolones ( Ciprofloxacin)metronidazole ( Flagyl)sulfonamidestetracycline Antidiarrheal agents to stop diarrhea Fluid replacements to counteract dehydration Nutritional supplements to provide the nutrients that may not be absorbing properly


Question: What should treatment of Crohn's disease accomplish?

Answer: There is no cure for Crohn's disease. The goals for treatment are: to reduce inflammation to relieve symptoms of pain, diarrhea, and bleeding to eliminate nutritional deficiencies Treatment might involve drugs, nutritional supplements, surgery, or a combination of these therapies.


Question: What are other complications of Crohn's disease?

Answer: Symptoms can include: abdominal pain and tenderness (often on the lower right side of the abdomen) chronic diarrhea delayed development and stunted growth (in children) feeling of a mass or fullness in the lower right abdomen fever rectal bleeding weight loss Other symptoms can develop, depending on complications related to the disease. For example, a person with a fistula, an abnormal passageway, in the rectal area may have pain and discharge around the rectum. Other complications from Crohn's disease include: arthritis gallstones inflammation of the eyes and mouth kidney stones liver disease skin rashes or ulcers The cause of Crohn's disease is not known.


Question: Which screening tests are important for men to have?

Answer: All men 20 and older should get their cholesterol checked every five years. Talk to your doctor about diabetes screening starting at age 40 -- or younger, if you're overweight and physically inactive, or have a family member with diabetes. And don't forget about high blood pressure. Ask your doctor how often you should be screened for it to protect yourself against stroke and heart disease. A colonoscopy is recommended at age 50 (earlier if you're at high risk).


Question: What are symptoms of a heart attack?

Answer: Get emergency medical help right away if you have warning signs of a stroke, including: Trouble speaking Weakness in your arm or leg Drooping of your face on one side Loss of balance Also get medical help right away if you have symptoms of a heart attack: Pressure, squeezing, or pain in your chest Pain in your upper back or neck Pain that radiates down the arms Nausea, vomiting Shortness of breath Fatigue


Question: How big can xanthomas be?

Answer: Sometimes these growths can also form on your: Hands Elbows Knees Feet Buttocks Some xanthomas may be very small. Others may grow as large as 3 inches. Smaller bumps can join together to form larger growths. They don't necessarily cause pain, but it depends on their location.


Question: Can xanthomas cause Achilles tendinitis?

Answer: Achilles Tendinitis When xanthomas form in your Achilles tendon, they can cause Achilles tendonitis -- pain, stiffness, and swelling in the back of the heel.


Question: When should you get emergency help about warning signs of a stroke?

Answer: Get emergency medical help right away if you have warning signs of a stroke, including: Trouble speaking Weakness in your arm or leg Drooping of your face on one side Loss of balance Also get medical help right away if you have symptoms of a heart attack: Pressure, squeezing, or pain in your chest Pain in your upper back or neck Pain that radiates down the arms Nausea, vomiting Shortness of breath Fatigue


Question: What is corneal arcus?

Answer: Corneal Arcus It's a condition you get when cholesterol forms deposits around the outside of your cornea -- the clear cover over the front of your eye. It looks like a white or gray ring around the iris -- the colored part of your eye. It won't affect your vision.


Question: When should you talk to your doctor about your anxiety and sleep issues?

Answer: If your anxiety does not improve after a few weeks, talk to your doctor. You may have an underlying medical problem (such as an overactive thyroid or a sleep disorder) or a treatable psychiatric condition (such as an anxiety disorder) causing you to feel this way.


Question: What are combination medications for high blood pressure?

Answer: Bisoprolol + hydrocholorthiazide ( Ziac), beta-blocker and diuretic Carvedilol ( Coreg), alpha-blocker and beta-blocker Labetalol ( Normodyne, Trandate), alpha-blocker and beta-blocker Olmesartan + hydrocholorthiazide ( Benicar), ARB and diuretic


Question: How do vasodilators work to treat high blood pressure?

Answer: Guanadrel ( Hylorel) Guanethidine ( Ismelin) Reserpine ( Serpasil) These relax the muscles in your blood vessel walls. The vessels widen, and blood can flow through more easily. Hydralazine ( Apresoline) Minoxidil ( Loniten) Some medicines combine different kinds of drugs.


Question: How do alpha-blockers work for high blood pressure?

Answer: Acebutolol ( Sectral) Atenolol ( Tenormin) Betaxolol ( Kerlone) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta) Carteolol ( Cartrol) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol XL) Nadolol ( Corgard) Nebivolol ( Bystolic) Penbutolol ( Levatol) Pindolol ( Visken) Propranolol ( Inderal) Sotalol ( Betapace) Timolol ( Blocadren) These stop nerve signals before they can tell your blood vessels to tighten. Your vessels stay relaxed, giving the blood more room to move and lowering your overall blood pressure. Doxazosin ( Cardura) Prazosin ( Minipress) Terazosin ( Hytrin) Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors prevent your body from making a hormone that tells blood vessels to tighten.


Question: How do direct renin inhibitors work for high blood pressure?

Answer: Candesartan ( Atacand) Eprosartan ( Teveten) Irbesartan ( Avapro) Losartan ( Cozaar) Telmisartan ( Micardis) Valsartan ( Diovan) These target the same process that ACE inhibitors and ARBs do, so your blood vessels don't tighten up. But they work on the enzyme renin instead. They stop it from triggering reactions before the hormone gets made. Aliskiren ( Tekturna) is a direct renin inhibitor.


Question: How do beta-blockers work for high blood pressure?

Answer: Amiloride + hydrochlorothiazide ( Moduretic) Spironolactone + hydrochlorothiazide ( Aldactazide) Triamterene + hydrochlorothiazide ( Dyazide, Maxzide) They'll slow down your heartbeat and keep your heart from squeezing hard. This makes blood go through your vessels with less force. Acebutolol ( Sectral) Atenolol ( Tenormin) Betaxolol ( Kerlone) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta) Carteolol ( Cartrol) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol XL) Nadolol ( Corgard) Nebivolol ( Bystolic) Penbutolol ( Levatol) Pindolol ( Visken) Propranolol ( Inderal) Sotalol ( Betapace) Timolol ( Blocadren) These stop nerve signals before they can tell your blood vessels to tighten.


Question: How do ACE inhibitors work for high blood pressure?

Answer: Doxazosin ( Cardura) Prazosin ( Minipress) Terazosin ( Hytrin) Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors prevent your body from making a hormone that tells blood vessels to tighten. With less of this hormone in your body, your blood vessels stay more open. Benazepril ( Lotensin) Captopril ( Capoten) Enalapril ( Vasotec) Fosinopril ( Monopril) Lisinopril ( Prinivil, Zestril) Moexipril ( Univasc) Perindopril ( Aceon) Quinapril ( Accupril) Ramipril ( Altace) Trandolapril ( Mavik) Angiotensin II receptor blockers stop that same hormone from working.


Question: How do central agonists work to treat high blood pressure?

Answer: Amlodipine ( Norvasc) Bepridil ( Vasocor) Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac) Felodipine ( Plendil) Isradipine ( Dyna Circ) Nicardipine ( Cardene) Nifedipine ( Adalat, Procardia) Nisoldipine ( Sular) Verapamil ( Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan) They stop your brain from sending signals that speed up your heart rate and narrow your blood vessels. These drugs are also called central-acting agents, central adrenergic inhibitors, and central alpha agonists. Clonidine ( Catapres) Guanabenz ( Wytensin) Guanfacine ( Tenex) Methyldopa ( Aldomet) They prevent signals that your brain sends from getting to your blood vessels and telling them to tighten.


Question: How do calcium channel blockers work for high blood pressure?

Answer: They don't let calcium into certain muscle cells in your heart and blood vessels, so it's harder for electrical signals to pass. Some CCBs keep blood vessels from tightening. Others slow your heart rate or make your heart ease up on how hard it squeezes to push blood. Amlodipine ( Norvasc) Bepridil ( Vasocor) Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor, Tiazac) Felodipine ( Plendil) Isradipine ( Dyna Circ) Nicardipine ( Cardene) Nifedipine ( Adalat, Procardia) Nisoldipine ( Sular) Verapamil ( Calan, Covera, Isoptin, Verelan) They stop your brain from sending signals that speed up your heart rate and narrow your blood vessels.


Question: How can bronchodilators treat asthma?

Answer: These drugs treat asthma by relaxing the muscle bands that tighten around the airways. They rapidly open the airways, letting more air in and out of the lungs and improving breathing. Bronchodilators also help clear mucus from the lungs. As the airways open, the mucus moves more freely and can be coughed out more easily. In the short-acting form, bronchodilators relieve or stop asthma symptoms and are very helpful during an asthma attack. The three main types of bronchodilators are beta2 agonists, anticholinergics, and theophylline.


Question: What happens during an asthma attack?

Answer: Air is normally taken into the body through the nose and windpipe and into the bronchial tubes. At the end of the tubes are tiny air sacs called alveoli that deliver fresh air (oxygen) to the blood. The air sacs also collect stale air (carbon dioxide), which is exhaled out of the body. During normal breathing, the bands of muscle surrounding the airways are relaxed and air moves freely. But during an asthma episode or "attack," there are three main changes that stop air from moving freely into the airways: The bands of muscle that surround the airways tighten, causing them to narrow in what is called "bronchospasm." The lining of the airways becomes swollen, or inflamed. The cells that line the airways produce more mucus, which is thicker than normal. The narrowed airway makes it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. As a result, people with asthma feel they cannot get enough air.


Question: How can asthma be cured?

Answer: There's no cure for asthma, but it can be treated and controlled. In most cases, people with asthma can live free of symptoms by following their treatment plan.


Question: How are asthma drugs taken?

Answer: Many asthma drugs are taken using a device called a "hydrofluoroalkane inhaler" or HFA Inhaler (formerly called a metered dose inhaler,) a small aerosol canister in a plastic container that releases a burst of medication when pressed down from the top. Several asthma drugs can also be taken as a powder inhaled through the mouth from a device called a dry powder inhaler. Asthma drugs can also be taken as vapors, pills, liquids, shots or intravenously.


Question: How does exercise treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Some types, such as tai chi and yoga, can lower stress, help you relax, and increase your energy, balance, and flexibility. As with any fitness program, check with your doctor before you start.


Question: Why should patients with multiple sclerosis avoid providers who refuse to work with their doctor?

Answer: Avoid providers who refuse or are reluctant to work with your doctor. Be sure that the person is willing to refer clients to a conventional doctor when necessary.


Question: How does diet treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: It’s important for people with MS to eat the right amounts of nutritious foods. Ask your doctor what kind of diet is right for you.


Question: Why should multiple sclerosis patients be wary of the source of a product or therapy?

Answer: Source: Be wary if the product is only being offered through one manufacturer.


Question: How does a positive attitude treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Together you can decide what will help you feel your best.


Question: Why should multiple sclerosis patients avoid promotions?

Answer: Promotion: Be cautious if products or providers are promoted through telemarketers, direct mailings, infomercials, ads disguised as valid news articles, or ads in the back of magazines.


Question: How can I tell which therapies for multiple sclerosis are worth trying?

Answer: Alternative therapy can be helpful in many cases, but some treatments don’t work and can be costly and even dangerous. The best way to stay safe is to learn about a product before you use it. Good things to find out: What is the treatment? What does it involve? How does it work? Are there any risks? What are the side effects? Is it effective? ( Ask for evidence or proof!) How much does it cost?


Question: Should I talk to others who have used alternative therapy for multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Talk to others who have used the therapy. Ask them what it was like. Don’t rely only on testimonials from the person or company offering the treatment. Track down your own references and get their opinions.


Question: How do massages treat multiple sclerosis (MS)?

Answer: Many people with MS get regular massage therapy to help them relax and reduce stress and depression. There is no evidence that massage changes the course of the disease. It’s usually safe for people with MS to have a massage, but you should tell your therapist if you have osteoporosis. Talk to your doctor first.


Question: Why should patients with multiple sclerosis talk to their doctor about therapy?

Answer: Discuss the therapy with your doctor. Make sure he knows what therapy you are considering so he can discuss possible side effects and how it may affect your current treatment. Your doctor can also give you information on other patients who may have tried the same therapy.


Question: Is acupuncture used to treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Some people report that acupuncture, a practice that places needles at specific points in the body, relieves symptoms like pain, muscle spasms, or bladder control problems. But scientific studies haven’t found for sure that it works for people with MS. Evening primrose oil (linoleic acid).


Question: How can I tell which alternative therapies are working to treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Alternative therapy can be helpful in many cases, but some treatments don’t work and can be costly and even dangerous. The best way to stay safe is to learn about a product before you use it. Good things to find out: What is the treatment? What does it involve? How does it work? Are there any risks? What are the side effects? Is it effective?


Question: Why should multiple sclerosis patients avoid big claims?

Answer: Big claims: If a provider or product claims to be a "cure" for MS or makes other outrageous claims, be cautious.


Question: How does evening primrose oil treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: You can find linoleic acid in sunflower seeds and safflower oil. There is some evidence that taking it as a supplement may slightly improve MS symptoms.


Question: Will alternative therapies cure multiple sclerosis?

Answer: But there’s evidence that some of them are helpful when you use them along with your regular treatment. For others, the science isn’t as clear. When you’re deciding if you want to try something new, it’s important to know what might help you and what could be harmful.


Question: Why should multiple sclerosis patients beware of testimonials?

Answer: Testimonials: You’ll usually only hear from people who are satisfied with the product, so beware, especially if you see or hear "paid endorsement" with their comments. Also, watch for testimonials by people who are only listed by initials, locations, or first names.


Question: What red flags should I watch for from providers of alternative treatment for multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Promotion: Be cautious if products or providers are promoted through telemarketers, direct mailings, infomercials, ads disguised as valid news articles, or ads in the back of magazines. Big claims: If a provider or product claims to be a "cure" for MS or makes other outrageous claims, be cautious. Source: Be wary if the product is only being offered through one manufacturer. Ingredients: Make sure all of the active ingredients are listed. Do not trust "secret formulas." Testimonials: You’ll usually only hear from people who are satisfied with the product, so beware, especially if you see or hear "paid endorsement" with their comments. Also, watch for testimonials by people who are only listed by initials, locations, or first names.


Question: Is marijuana used to treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Some people with MS say that smoking or ingesting it helps relieve muscle spasms and other MS-related symptoms. But scientists aren’t clear on how it works and who should use it. If you live in a state where medical marijuana is legal, check with your doctor.


Question: Should I research the provider's background for alternative treatment for multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Research the provider's background.


Question: Is evening primrose oil used to treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: You can find linoleic acid in sunflower seeds and safflower oil. There is some evidence that taking it as a supplement may slightly improve MS symptoms.


Question: Should I take alternative treatment claims for multiple sclerosis at face value?

Answer: Don’t take any claim at face value. Contact reliable organizations and discuss the therapy. Talk to others in a support group, your family, and your health care team. Although they may not always be supportive, they can help you make an educated decision.


Question: Should I discuss the alternative therapy for multiple sclerosis with my doctor?

Answer: Discuss the therapy with your doctor. Make sure he knows what therapy you are considering so he can discuss possible side effects and how it may affect your current treatment. Your doctor can also give you information on other patients who may have tried the same therapy.


Question: How do your blood sugar levels change as you eat?

Answer: Then it dips a few hours later as insulin moves glucose into your cells. Between meals, your blood sugar should be less than 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). This is called your fasting blood sugar level.


Question: What goes wrong in the body with type 1 and type 2 diabetes?

Answer: There are two types of diabetes: In type 1 diabetes, your body doesn't have enough insulin. The immune system attacks and destroys cells of the pancreas, where insulin is made. In type 2 diabetes, the cells don't respond to insulin like they should. So the pancreas needs to make more and more insulin to move glucose into the cells. Eventually, the pancreas is damaged and can't make enough insulin to meet the body's needs.


Question: What are the two types of diabetes?

Answer: There are two types of diabetes: In type 1 diabetes, your body doesn't have enough insulin. The immune system attacks and destroys cells of the pancreas, where insulin is made. In type 2 diabetes, the cells don't respond to insulin like they should. So the pancreas needs to make more and more insulin to move glucose into the cells. Eventually, the pancreas is damaged and can't make enough insulin to meet the body's needs.


Question: How does the body make glucose?

Answer: It mainly comes from foods rich in carbohydrates, like bread, potatoes, and fruit. As you eat, food travels down your esophagus to your stomach. There, acids and enzymes break it down into tiny pieces. During that process, glucose is released. It goes into your intestines where it's absorbed. From there, it passes into your bloodstream. Once in the blood, insulin helps glucose get to your cells.


Question: Why is too much glucose in the bloodstream bad?

Answer: Too much glucose in your bloodstream for a long period of time can damage the vessels that carry oxygen-rich blood to your organs. High blood sugar can increase your risk for: Heart disease, heart attack, and stroke Kidney disease Nerve damage Eye disease called retinopathy People with diabetes need to test their blood sugar often. Exercise, diet, and medicine can help keep blood glucose in a healthy range and prevent these complications.


Question: How does your blood glucose level drop and how does it store glucose?

Answer: After you haven't eaten for a few hours, your blood glucose level drops. Your pancreas stops churning out insulin. Alpha cells in the pancreas begin to produce a different hormone called glucagon. It signals the liver to break down stored glycogen and turn it back into glucose. That travels to your bloodstream to replenish your supply until you're able to eat again. Your liver can also make its own glucose using a combination of waste products, amino acids, and fats.


Question: What causes chronic liver failure?

Answer: Hemochromatosis: This inherited disorder causes your body to absorb and store too much iron.


Question: What causes acute liver failure?

Answer: These symptoms include: Jaundice Bleeding easily Swollen belly Mental confusion (known as hepatic encephalopathy) Sleepiness The causes of acute liver failure, when the liver fails rapidly, include: Acetaminophen overdose: Large doses can damage your liver or lead to failure. Viruses including hepatitis A, B, and E, the Epstein- Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and herpes simplex virus: They lead to liver damage or cirrhosis.


Question: What symptoms of liver failure require urgent care?

Answer: Early symptoms include: Nausea Loss of appetite Fatigue Diarrhea But as liver failure progresses, the symptoms become more serious, needing care right away. These symptoms include: Jaundice Bleeding easily Swollen belly Mental confusion (known as hepatic encephalopathy) Sleepiness The causes of acute liver failure, when the liver fails rapidly, include: Acetaminophen overdose: Large doses can damage your liver or lead to failure.


Question: How does liver failure occur?

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Question: How effective is vitamin B-12 (cobalamin) at reducing the risk for age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: A recent study showed that vitamin B-12, used with folic acid and vitamin B6, reduces the risk for age-related macular degeneration ( AMD) in women with heart disease or multiple risk factors for heart disease.


Question: What are good food sources of vitamin B-12 (cobalamin)?

Answer: Some good food sources of vitamin B-12 are: Fish and shellfish Meats Poultry and eggs Dairy products Fortified cereals Generally, it's best to get vitamins from whole foods.


Question: What is vitamin B-12 (cobalamin)?

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Question: Why do people take vitamin B-12 (cobalamin)?

Answer: Vitamin B-12 has been looked at as a treatment for many diseases and conditions. These include fatigue, Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, breast cancer, high cholesterol, and sickle cell disease. However, the results have been inconclusive. Studies suggest that vitamin B-12 does not help with stroke risk or lung cancer. Vitamin B-12 supplements do help people who have a deficiency. Low levels of vitamin B-12 are more likely in people over age 50. Vitamin B-12 is also more common in those with certain conditions, like digestive problems and some types of anemia. Low vitamin B-12 can cause fatigue, weakness, memory loss, and other problems with the nervous system.


Question: What are the treatments for myasthenia gravis?

Answer: You may be put on a drug called pyridostigmine ( Mestinon), that increases the amount of acetylcholine available to stimulate the receptors. If you continue to have symptoms on pyridostigmine, an immunotherapeutic agent is usually added. These include azathioprine ( Imuran), cyclosporine ( Neoral), eculizumab ( Solaris) mycophenolate ( Cell Cept), and prednisone to suppress the immune system. In severe cases, you may need to have your blood sent through a special machine that removes the antibody-containing plasma and replaces it with antibody-free plasma. This is called plasmapheresis. You may also be given a preparation called intravenous immunoglobulin ( IVIg) through a needle in a vein. If you have a thymoma, you will need surgery to remove your thymus (thymectomy).


Question: What situations affect myasthenia gravis?

Answer: Situations that affect myasthenia gravis include: Changes in thyroid function Surgery Radiation therapy Infection Certain medications can exacerbate symptoms of myasthenia gravis, including: Antibiotics (particularly those called aminoglycosides) Narcotic drugs Penicillamine Magnesium Anesthesia Muscle relaxants Beta-blockers to treat heart arrhythmias Some women notice that their symptoms worsen around the time of their menstrual period.


Question: Why does my baby have a fever?

Answer: A fever isn't an illness -- it's considered a symptom of one. A fever usually indicates that the body is fighting an illness and the immune system is functioning. If your baby has a fever, in most instances it means he has probably picked up a cold or other viral infection. Although they are less common in infants, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, ear infection or a more serious infection such as a blood bacterial infection or meningitis, may be causing a fever. Other causes of fever in babies include: Reaction to a vaccination Becoming overheated from being dressed too warmly or spending too much time outside on a hot day One common sign of fever in babies is a warm forehead, although not having a warm forehead doesn't mean that your baby doesn't have a fever.


Question: What should I do if my baby has a fever?

Answer: If your baby is under age 1 month and has a fever, contact your child's health care provider right away. For older babies, try these tips: Bathe your child with lukewarm water -- always check the temperature of the water on your wrist before washing your baby. Dress your baby in a light layer of clothes. Give your baby enough fluids to avoid dehydration. Those fluids should be breast milk, formula, an electrolyte solution, or water, depending on the baby's age. Contact your baby's health care provider for guidelines. A dehydrated baby may have fewer wet diapers, no tears with crying, or a dry mouth.


Question: How do I take my baby's temperature with a rectal thermometer?

Answer: To take a rectal temperature, first make sure the thermometer is clean. Wash it with soap and water or wipe it off with rubbing alcohol. Lay your baby on the belly or on the back with legs bent toward the chest. Apply a little bit of petroleum jelly around the thermometer bulb and gently insert it about 1 inch into the rectal opening. Hold the digital thermometer in place for about two minutes until you hear the "beep." Then gently remove the thermometer and read the temperature.


Question: When should I call the doctor about my baby's fever?

Answer: According to the AAP, call your doctor if your baby: Is under age 3 months and has a fever; if your baby is under 2 months and has a fever, it is considered an emergency. Seek immediate medical care. Is lethargic and not responsive Has problems breathing or eating Is very cranky, fussy or difficult to calm down Has a rash Shows signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, no tears with crying, or sunken soft spot on the head Has a seizure It can be difficult for doctors to tell whether a newborn has a simple virus (like a cold), or a more serious infection (like UTI, pneumonia or meningitis).


Question: What can I give my baby for a fever?

Answer: If your child is older than 6 months and your doctor says it is OK, you can give your baby either children's Tylenol or ibuprofen ( Advil or Motrin). Never give babies aspirin for a fever because of the risk for a rare but potentially dangerous condition called Reye's syndrome. Also, do not give a baby under age 6 months Advil, Motrin, or other medicines that contain ibuprofen. Be sure to ask your doctor about the dosage and read the package instructions before giving your baby a fever-reducing medicine.


Question: When does my baby have a fever?

Answer: Most doctors consider a rectal temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher as a fever.


Question: What are signs my baby has a fever?

Answer: Other causes of fever in babies include: Reaction to a vaccination Becoming overheated from being dressed too warmly or spending too much time outside on a hot day One common sign of fever in babies is a warm forehead, although not having a warm forehead doesn't mean that your baby doesn't have a fever. Your baby may also be crankier and fussier than usual. Other symptoms associated with fever in babies include: Poor sleeping Poor eating Lack of interest in play Less active or even lethargic Convulsions or seizures You can take a child's temperature a few different ways, such as via the rectum (rectally), mouth (orally), ear, under the arm (axillary), or at the temples.


Question: How does the doctor know if my newborn has a virus or serious infection due to a fever?

Answer: Is lethargic and not responsive Has problems breathing or eating Is very cranky, fussy or difficult to calm down Has a rash Shows signs of dehydration, such as fewer wet diapers, dry mouth, no tears with crying, or sunken soft spot on the head Has a seizure It can be difficult for doctors to tell whether a newborn has a simple virus (like a cold), or a more serious infection (like UTI, pneumonia or meningitis). That's why doctors will sometimes order special tests (such as blood or urine tests, and/or a chest X-ray and spinal tap) to pinpoint the exact cause of an infant fever, and to look for more serious infections in young babies.


Question: What leg stretches can help with muscle cramps?

Answer: Medications that can cause muscle cramps include: Furosemide ( Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide ( Microzide), and other diuretics ("water pills") that remove fluid from the body Donepezil ( Aricept), used to treat Alzheimer's disease Neostigmine ( Prostigmine), used for myasthenia gravis Nifedipine ( Procardia), a treatment for angina and high blood pressure Raloxifene ( Evista), an osteoporosis treatment Terbutaline ( Brethine), albuterol ( Proventil and Ventolin), asthma medications Tolcapone ( Tasmar), which helps treat Parkinson's disease Statin medications for cholesterol, such as atorvastatin ( Lipitor), fluvastatin ( Lescol), lovastatin ( Mevacor), pravastatin ( Pravachol), rosuvastatin ( Crestor), or simvastatin ( Zocor) For a charley horse in the calf or a cramp in the back of the thigh (hamstring), try this stretch: Put your weight on the affected leg and bend your knee slightly. Or, sit or lie down with your leg out straight and pull the top of your foot toward your head. For a cramp in the front of the thigh (quadriceps), hold on to a chair to steady yourself and pull your foot back toward your buttock.


Question: What medications can cause muscle cramps?

Answer: They include: Poor blood circulation in your legs Working calf muscles too hard while exercising Not stretching enough Being active in hot temperatures Muscle fatigue Dehydration Magnesium and/or potassium deficiency A problem such as a spinal cord injury or pinched nerve in your neck or back Kidney disease Muscle cramps can also occur as a side effect of some drugs. Medications that can cause muscle cramps include: Furosemide ( Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide ( Microzide), and other diuretics ("water pills") that remove fluid from the body Donepezil ( Aricept), used to treat Alzheimer's disease Neostigmine ( Prostigmine), used for myasthenia gravis Nifedipine ( Procardia), a treatment for angina and high blood pressure Raloxifene ( Evista), an osteoporosis treatment Terbutaline ( Brethine), albuterol ( Proventil and Ventolin), asthma medications Tolcapone ( Tasmar), which helps treat Parkinson's disease Statin medications for cholesterol, such as atorvastatin ( Lipitor), fluvastatin ( Lescol), lovastatin ( Mevacor), pravastatin ( Pravachol), rosuvastatin ( Crestor), or simvastatin ( Zocor) For a charley horse in the calf or a cramp in the back of the thigh (hamstring), try this stretch: Put your weight on the affected leg and bend your knee slightly.


Question: Can I prevent muscle cramps?

Answer: To help stop cramps before they start: Eat more foods high in vitamins and magnesium. Stay well-hydrated. Stretch daily and before exercise.


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

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


Question: How is laparoscopic surgery done for colorectal cancer?

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


Question: How is fecal diversion done for colorectal cancer?

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


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

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


Question: What is a polypectomy for colorectal cancer?

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


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

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


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

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


Question: How do colorectal surgeons use laparoscopy?

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


Question: What is laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer?

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


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

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


Question: What is a resection for colorectal cancer?

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


Question: How can an injury cause keratitis?

Answer: Light may hurt your eyes, and you also may have: Blurry vision Lots of tears or a discharge Swelling Several things can lead to keratitis: Injury: Most of the time, keratitis comes from damage to your cornea. You might have been poked in the eye or scratched your eye with your fingernail. It also can happen if you wear your contact lenses too long or wear lenses that don't fit right. The injury may cause the inflammation, but it can also let in bacteria or a fungus that leads to an infection.


Question: What are some other causes of keratitis?

Answer: Other causes: A lack of vitamin A, some illnesses that involve a problem with your immune system, and diseases that cause very dry eyes can lead to keratitis.


Question: How do doctors treat keratitis?

Answer: If your keratitis is caused by an injury, it usually clears up on its own as your eye heals. You may get an antibiotic ointment to help with symptoms and prevent infection. Infections are treated with prescription eye drops and sometimes antibiotics or antiviral medicine. Keratitis is usually easy to treat and clears up quickly. But if an infection goes deeper than the surface of your cornea, it can leave scars that damage your vision or even cause blindness.


Question: How can a fungus cause keratitis?

Answer: Fungus: It's also very rare to get a fungal infection in your eye. It usually comes from being scratched in the eye by a branch or from contaminated contacts. Eye surgery also can cause this.


Question: What is keratitis?

Answer: Doctors sometimes use the term "corneal ulcer." It's usually caused by an injury or infection. See your doctor right away if you have a problem with your eyes. Keratitis can become serious quickly. The first sign of keratitis is usually eye pain and redness.


Question: How can a parasite cause keratitis?

Answer: Parasite: Acanthamoeba is a microorganism that lives just about everywhere -- in the air, soil, and bodies of water. It's even found in tap water. It's harmless most of the time. But it can cause an eye infection, especially if you wear contacts. It's very rare, but also very hard to treat.


Question: How can a bacterial infection cause keratitis?

Answer: Bacterial infection: This happens less often, but it can be a problem for people who wear contact lenses. Bacteria can grow on your contacts or contact case if you don't clean and store them properly. Extended-wear lenses, the kind you sleep in for days or even weeks at a time, are most likely to lead to this. Infection can also come from contaminated eye drops or contact solution. Or it can happen after eye surgery.


Question: How can a viral infection cause keratitis?

Answer: Viral infection: This is usually herpes simplex, the chicken pox virus, or the common cold. If you're sick, be careful about touching your eyes and keep your hands clean.


Question: What is a lumbar laminotomy?

Answer: Sometimes your surgeon will also need to remove a small piece of bone called the lamina from the vertebra. The lamina forms a protective cover over your spinal cord. Removing part or all of it helps the surgeon access your herniated disk. It also can relieve pressure on your nerves and eliminate leg pain and sciatica.


Question: What is a diskectomy?

Answer: During this procedure, your surgeon removes your damaged disk to relieve pressure on your nerves. He can perform the surgery in a couple of ways: Your surgeons performs open diskectomy is via a cut in your back or neck. Microdiscectomy is done through a much smaller incision. Your surgeon inserts a thin tube with a camera on one end to see and remove the damaged disk.


Question: How can I prevent getting another herniated disk?

Answer: To protect your spine and prevent another herniated disk, you should always sit and stand up straight. If you have to stand for a long period of time, rest one foot on a stool or box to take pressure off your back. Be careful when you lift anything heavy. Squat from your knees to pick it up. Don't bend from the waist. It puts too much pressure on your back. Stay at a good weight for you. Extra pounds put more strain on your back. Don't smoke. It can cause hardening of the arteries, which can damage the disks in your spine.


Question: What is a spinal fusion?

Answer: After a diskectomy or laminotomy, your surgeon may fuse together the two vertebrae on either side of the disk to stabilize your spine. This is called spinal fusion. Fusing the two disks will stop the bones from moving and prevent you from having any more pain.


Question: Will surgery treat a herniated disk?

Answer: Most people with a herniated disk don't need surgery. Rest and other treatments should start to improve your symptoms within 4 to 6 weeks. But if your pain doesn't improve, surgery might be an option. Talk to your doctor about surgery if: You're not getting relief from pain relievers, injections, and physical therapy. Your symptoms keep getting worse. You have trouble standing or walking. You can't control your bowels or bladder.


Question: How do fungi spread?

Answer: Fungi enter your body through tiny cracks in your skin. You can catch them by touching someone who has them. You can also catch fungi if your bare feet come in contact with them. This might happen when you walk barefoot in warm, moist areas, like a locker room or public pool.


Question: How contagious is foot fungus?

Answer: Not as much as you might think. Foot fungus loves wet places, but you might have a better chance of catching it if you don't wash or dry your feet well, or don't change your socks and shoes often.


Question: What are symptoms of too high or low blood sugar levels?

Answer: When your blood sugar is high, you can get symptoms like a foggy-headed feeling that makes it hard to focus or think clearly. Your energy may also take a dive, and you may feel nervous or moody. If your levels go too low, you could even pass out. In the long run, if your blood sugar stays up, you could be at risk for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, or other problems.


Question: How much is normal for my blood sugar to spike after eating?

Answer: What levels are too high after a meal? Experts vary on what the number should be, but the ADA says a general goal is a blood sugar level under 180 mg/d L, 1 to 2 hours after a meal. Talk to your doctor about what you should aim for, and don't adjust your medicine without speaking to him first.


Question: Is it normal for my blood sugar to spike after eating if I have diabetes?

Answer: If you're trying to manage diabetes, you already know it's important to keep track of your blood sugar levels. But how do you handle a spike that comes after you eat? It's called "postprandial" blood glucose, and if you take some simple steps, you can get it under control and help avoid health problems.


Question: Does managing blood sugar before meals help spikes after meals?

Answer: Keep blood sugar in check before meals. That way, even if it goes up after you eat, it won't be so dramatic.


Question: Will walking after dinner help with post-meal blood sugar spikes?

Answer: Go for an after-dinner walk. It's a healthy habit for everyone, but if you have diabetes, it's also a good way to burn extra glucose from a meal.


Question: Can medicine help manage my after-meal spikes?

Answer: Get medicine that works for you. The right insulin or medication program can make a big difference. In general, to cover after-meal spikes, those that kick in quickly and for a short time are a better choice than ones that work slowly over a long period. Your doctor can explain your options.


Question: How does medicine manage blood sugar spikes?

Answer: Get medicine that works for you. The right insulin or medication program can make a big difference. In general, to cover after-meal spikes, those that kick in quickly and for a short time are a better choice than ones that work slowly over a long period. Your doctor can explain your options.


Question: How does watching what you eat manage blood sugar spikes?

Answer: They tend to trigger post-meal spikes. The type of fat you eat may play a role, as well. One study shows you may be able to curb blood sugar spikes after you eat if you skip foods with lots of butter and choose a meal made with a little olive oil instead.


Question: What blood sugar levels are too high after a meal?

Answer: Experts vary on what the number should be, but the ADA says a general goal is a blood sugar level under 180 mg/d L, 1 to 2 hours after a meal. Talk to your doctor about what you should aim for, and don't adjust your medicine without speaking to him first.


Question: Who may be on your treatment team for heart failure?

Answer: Your group may include: Doctors Nurses Dietitians Exercise experts Physical and occupational therapists Mental health specialists How long your program will last depends on your needs.


Question: Do I need emotional support for my heart failure?

Answer: Support: Depression and anxiety are common for people with heart disease. Emotional and psychological support is an important part of your treatment and recovery. Your team may include a mental health specialist, or your team may refer you to support groups or classes.


Question: How can relaxation techniques be an itch buster for eczema irritation?

Answer: Relaxation techniques: There's a strong link between stress and your skin. Plus, you're prone to scratch more when your emotions are running high. Self-hypnosis, meditation, and biofeedback therapy have all been shown to ease eczema symptoms. You may also want to see a therapist. Doing so can ease stress. It can also help you change habits or negative thought patterns that may be adding to your skin problems.


Question: Do I still need the shingles vaccine if I've never had chickenpox?

Answer: Shingrix is recommended for everyone age 50 and older, whether or not you remember having had chickenpox. If I've had shingles, can I still get the vaccine? Yes.


Question: What other prescriptions can treat shingles?

Answer: If you have severe pain after the rash clears or an infection during your shingles outbreak, your doctor might prescribe: Capsaicin cream: Be careful not to get it in your eyes. A numbing medicine: You might get lidocaine ( Lidoderm, Xylocaine) for pain. It can come in a variety of forms, such as creams, lotions, patches, powders, and sprays, among others. Antibiotics : You might need these medicines if bacteria infect your skin and rashes. But if bacteria aren't involved, then antibiotics won't help. Tricyclic antidepressants : There are many of these medications that might help ease the pain that lingers after your skin has healed, such as amitriptyline, desipramine ( Norpramin), and nortriptyline ( Aventyl, Pamelor). They may also help you with depression, if you have that in addition to shingles. Your doctor can tell you what the risks and benefits are.


Question: How are antiviral medications used to treat shingles?

Answer: They include: These medicines may slow down the progress of the shingles rash, especially if you take them within the first 72 hours of having symptoms. They can also lower your chance of having complications. Your doctor may prescribe: Acyclovir ( Zovirax) Famciclovir ( Famvir) Valacyclovir ( Valtrex) Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about side effects to watch for if you're put on one these.


Question: Who shouldn't get the shingles vaccine?

Answer: Don't get the Shingrix vaccine if: You're allergic to any of the ingredients. You have a weak immune system, either because of a condition or due to certain medicines. You're pregnant or nursing. You have tested negative for immunity to the chicken pox virus. Ask your doctor about the chicken pox vaccine instead. You have shingles now. Also, besides the conditions stated above, do not get the Zostavax vaccine if you have a weakened immune or you may become pregnant within the next 4 weeks following the shot.


Question: Should I still get the shingles vaccine if I've already had shingles?

Answer: It may help prevent you having another bout of shingles later on. If you have shingles right now, you should wait until the rash is gone before you get vaccinated.


Question: What is neuromyelitis optica (Devic's disease)?

Answer: This rare disease can affect your eyes, arms, and legs. Doctors don't know what causes it, but they do know it makes your body attack your optic nerve and spinal cord. You may have blurred vision or lose your eyesight. If it's in your spinal cord, your legs and arms might not work well. If you have one attack of neuromyelitis optica, you'll probably get another. But if your doctor catches the disease early, he'll have a better chance of treating your symptoms. He may try drugs that turn down your immune system so you don't have relapses.


Question: What is the recovery timeline of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)?

Answer: Most people recover fully within 6 months, though in very rare cases, ADEM can be deadly.


Question: Is there a cure for Balo's disease (concentric sclerosis)?

Answer: They include: High fever Headache Trouble talking or understanding information Memory loss Muscle spasms Seizures Paralysis There isn't a cure for Balo's disease, and no drugs treat it. Your doctor can suggest medications to help with your symptoms, including steroids to bring down the swelling in your brain and spinal cord.


Question: Is there a cure for Schilder's disease?

Answer: Signs include: Weakness on one side of the body Slow movements Seizures Trouble speaking Vision and hearing problems Memory problems Change in personality Weight loss There's no cure, but some people can manage their symptoms well with steroids and drugs that calm the immune system.


Question: What are symptoms of neuromyelitis optica (Devic's disease)?

Answer: Symptoms include: Blurred vision Loss of eyesight Eye pain Weak or numb arms and legs Bladder and bowel problems Vomiting Uncontrollable hiccups Neuromyelitis optica doesn't have a cure or FDA-approved medications to treat it.


Question: What are symptoms of Schilder's disease?

Answer: Signs include: Weakness on one side of the body Slow movements Seizures Trouble speaking Vision and hearing problems Memory problems Change in personality Weight loss There's no cure, but some people can manage their symptoms well with steroids and drugs that calm the immune system.


Question: Is there a cure for HTLV-I associated myelopathy (HAM)?

Answer: The most common symptoms are: Extreme fatigue Vision problems Trouble moving Tingling, burning, or other odd feelings There's no cure, but there are medications to change the course and lower the number of relapses.


Question: What is the best way to treat acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)?

Answer: They include: Fever Low energy Headache Nausea and vomiting Confusion Irritation Eyesight problems Trouble with coordination Drugs that fight inflammation a can stop the damage to the nerves in your brain and spinal cord. A doctor also can prescribe other medicine to ease some ADEM symptoms.


Question: I have a demyelinating disorder, what is the best way to treat acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)?

Answer: They include: Fever Low energy Headache Nausea and vomiting Confusion Irritation Eyesight problems Trouble with coordination Drugs that fight inflammation a can stop the damage to the nerves in your brain and spinal cord. A doctor also can prescribe other medicine to ease some ADEM symptoms.


Question: What is acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)?

Answer: Sometimes it affects the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain. You get ADEM when your body attacks its own tissues in response to an infection with a virus or bacteria. It's rare, but it can also be a reaction to a vaccine. Sometimes the cause is unknown.


Question: What is HTLV-I associated myelopathy?

Answer: This condition results from a virus called HTLV-1. It can make your brain and spinal cord swell, which causes the symptoms of the disease. Not everyone who has the virus will get HAM. Some people also carry HTLV-1 but have no symptoms.


Question: Is there a cure for neuromyelitis optica?

Answer: Symptoms include: Blurred vision Loss of eyesight Eye pain Weak or numb arms and legs Bladder and bowel problems Vomiting Uncontrollable hiccups Neuromyelitis optica doesn't have a cure or FDA-approved medications to treat it. Your doctor may give you a steroid shot to help with swelling. He may also try a treatment called plasma exchange.


Question: What is the most common demyelinating disorder?

Answer: There are several demyelinating diseases: This is the most common demyelinating disorder. One in 500 people have it. It's an autoimmune condition that attacks your brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve. There are four types, ranging from mild to severe.


Question: How long does it take to recover from disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)?

Answer: Most people recover fully within 6 months, though in very rare cases, ADEM can be deadly.


Question: What are the signs of Schilder's disease?

Answer: This disease is hard to predict. Some people will have flares of symptoms followed by times of recovery. For others, the disease slowly gets worse over time. Signs include: Weakness on one side of the body Slow movements Seizures Trouble speaking Vision and hearing problems Memory problems Change in personality Weight loss There's no cure, but some people can manage their symptoms well with steroids and drugs that calm the immune system.


Question: What are the symptoms of Balo's disease?

Answer: They include: High fever Headache Trouble talking or understanding information Memory loss Muscle spasms Seizures Paralysis There isn't a cure for Balo's disease, and no drugs treat it.


Question: What is Schilder's disease?

Answer: This rare condition most often affects boys between ages 7 and 12. It wears away myelin in the brain and spinal cord. Severe cases can affect breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure.


Question: What is neuromyelitis optica?

Answer: This rare disease can affect your eyes, arms, and legs. Doctors don't know what causes it, but they do know it makes your body attack your optic nerve and spinal cord. You may have blurred vision or lose your eyesight. If it's in your spinal cord, your legs and arms might not work well.


Question: Who normally gets attack of neuromyelitis optica?

Answer: If you have one attack of neuromyelitis optica, you'll probably get another. But if your doctor catches the disease early, he'll have a better chance of treating your symptoms. He may try drugs that turn down your immune system so you don't have relapses.


Question: What are symptoms of neuromyelitis optica?

Answer: Symptoms include: Blurred vision Loss of eyesight Eye pain Weak or numb arms and legs Bladder and bowel problems Vomiting Uncontrollable hiccups Neuromyelitis optica doesn't have a cure or FDA-approved medications to treat it.


Question: What is the cure for HTLV-I Associated Myelopathy?

Answer: The most common symptoms are: Extreme fatigue Vision problems Trouble moving Tingling, burning, or other odd feelings There's no cure, but there are medications to change the course and lower the number of relapses.


Question: Who is more likely to get breast cancer?

Answer: Women over 50 are more likely to get breast cancer than younger women.


Question: Why is thyroid disease sometimes confused with menopause?

Answer: According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists ( AACE), millions of women with menopausal-like symptoms, even those taking estrogen, may be suffering from undiagnosed thyroid disease. While symptoms such as fatigue, depression, mood swings, and sleep disturbances are frequently associated with menopause, they may also be signs of hypothyroidism.


Question: Can having a sense of humor keep you from getting sick?

Answer: It curbs the levels of stress hormones in your body and boosts a type of white blood cell that fights infection. Just anticipating a funny event can have a positive effect on your immune system. In one study, men were told 3 days in advance that they were going to watch a funny video. Their levels of stress hormones dropped.


Question: How can my diet affect my immune system?

Answer: This effect lasts for at least a few hours after downing a couple of sugary drinks. Eat more fruits and vegetables, which are rich in nutrients like vitamins C and E, plus beta-carotene and zinc. Go for a wide variety of brightly colored fruits and vegetables, including berries, citrus fruits, kiwi, apples, red grapes, kale, onions, spinach, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Other foods particularly good for your immune system include fresh garlic, which may help fight viruses and bacteria, and old-fashioned chicken soup. If you do come down with a cold or the flu, a bowl of chicken soup can help you get well faster, one study shows. Some mushroom varieties -- such as shiitake -- may also help your immune system.


Question: Can stress affect my immune system?

Answer: If stress drags on for a long time, it makes you more vulnerable to illness, from colds to serious diseases. Chronic stress exposes your body to a steady stream of stress hormones that suppress the immune system.


Question: What can I do to treat bronchitis?

Answer: Here are some things you can do to ease your symptoms: Drink a lot of water. Eight to 12 glasses a day help thin out your mucus and makes it easier to cough it up. Get plenty of rest. Take over-the-counter pain relievers with ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin), naproxen ( Aleve), or aspirin to help with pain, but avoid giving aspirin to children. You can use acetaminophen ( Tylenol) to help with pain and fever. Use a humidifier or try steam to loosen up the mucus; a hot shower can work well.


Question: What are the symptoms of pneumonia?

Answer: Call your doctor if your cough: Brings up mucus that thickens or darkens in color Keeps you awake at night Lasts more than 3 weeks You'll also want to call your doctor if you have a cough and: A foul-tasting fluid in our mouth (this could be reflux) Fever over 100.4 F Wheezing or shortness of breath Pneumonia symptoms can be mild or severe based on what causes it, your age, and your overall health. The most common symptoms are: Cough (you might bring up yellow, green, or even bloody mucus) Fever Shaking chills Shortness of breath (for some people, this happens only when they climb stairs) You may also have: Chest pain (you might get a stabbing or sharp pain that's worse when you cough or take a deep breath) Confusion (more common for adults 65 and older) Run-down feeling Headache Heavy sweating and clammy, damp skin Throwing up or feeling like you might Call your doctor if you have a cough that won't go away or you're coughing up pus.


Question: When should I call my doctor for pneumonia?

Answer: The most common symptoms are: Cough (you might bring up yellow, green, or even bloody mucus) Fever Shaking chills Shortness of breath (for some people, this happens only when they climb stairs) You may also have: Chest pain (you might get a stabbing or sharp pain that's worse when you cough or take a deep breath) Confusion (more common for adults 65 and older) Run-down feeling Headache Heavy sweating and clammy, damp skin Throwing up or feeling like you might Call your doctor if you have a cough that won't go away or you're coughing up pus. Other symptoms that could spur a call: Chest pain Fever that stays at 102 F or higher Shaking chills Shortness of breath as you go about your day Trouble breathing Unable to keep liquids down Most often, the same viruses that give you a cold or the flu also cause bronchitis.


Question: When should I call my doctor for bronchitis?

Answer: Call your doctor if your cough: Brings up mucus that thickens or darkens in color Keeps you awake at night Lasts more than 3 weeks You'll also want to call your doctor if you have a cough and: A foul-tasting fluid in our mouth (this could be reflux) Fever over 100.4 F Wheezing or shortness of breath Pneumonia symptoms can be mild or severe based on what causes it, your age, and your overall health.


Question: What causes pneumonia?

Answer: Pneumonia can be caused by: Bacteria Certain chemicals Fungi Mycoplasmas, which are like bacteria and give you milder symptoms (sometimes called âwalking pneumoniaâ) Viruses (the same ones that cause colds and the flu can also give you pneumonia) As your body fights off the germs, your lungs' air sacs swell and may fill with fluid or pus, much like your bronchial tubes swell and fill with mucus when you have bronchitis.


Question: How is pneumonia treated?

Answer: If it's caused by a virus, you may get an antiviral drug. And if it's really severe, you may need to go to the hospital, though that's not as common. To help ease your symptoms, you can do many of the same things as with bronchitis: Drink plenty of fluids Get as much rest as you can Take pain relievers for pain and fever And again, it's best to avoid cough medicines. In fact, there's actually very little proof that they can help with the cough you get from pneumonia. Pneumonia usually runs its course within a few weeks with treatment, but you may be tired for as long as a month.


Question: How can cervical position help you know where you are in your fertility cycle?

Answer: Another way to learn about where you are in your fertility cycle is to check the position of your cervix. If you put two fingers into your vagina, you should feel the cervix at the end. Before you ovulate, it should feel hard and dry, like the tip of your nose. During ovulation, you should notice that it seems to have shifted higher and that it feels softer and wetter. But you should always make sure that your hands are clean before you start poking around. And since it may be hard to tell exactly what you're looking for, you may want to talk to your doctor first.


Question: What is the pattern of cervical mucus changes for a woman with a 28-day cycle?

Answer: For a woman with a 28-day cycle, the pattern of changes in her cervical mucus could look something like this: Days 1-5: Menstruation happens. Days 6-9: Vagina is dry with little to no mucus. Days 10-12: Sticky, thick mucus appears, gradually becoming less thick and more white. Days 13-15: Mucus becomes thin, slippery, stretchy, and clear -- like egg whites. This is the most fertile stage. Days 16-21: Mucus becomes sticky and thick again. Days 22-28: Vagina becomes dry. But your cycle could be very different from this pattern, which is why it's useful to mark changes on your own fertility chart. Ideally, you should check your cervical mucus every day, possibly every time you go to the bathroom. If you rub some toilet paper or your fingers -- after washing your hands -- over the opening of your vagina, you should be able to find cervical mucus. Examine the color and consistency between your fingers, and write down what you find.


Question: What's the best thing to do for a stuffy nose at home?

Answer: Salt-water rinsing helps break nasal congestion, while also removing virus particles and bacteria from your nose. Here's a popular recipe: Mix 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water. Use a bulb syringe or nasal irrigation kit to squirt water into the nose. Hold one nostril closed by applying light finger pressure while squirting the salt mixture into the other nostril. Let it drain. Repeat two to three times, then treat the other nostril.


Question: What should I do about severe cold or flu symptoms?

Answer: Here are some good foods to eat when you're battling a cold or flu: Bananas and rice to soothe an upset stomach and curb diarrhea Vitamin C-containing foods like bell peppers Blueberries curb diarrhea and are high in natural aspirin, which may lower fevers and help with aches and pains Carrots, which contain beta-carotene Chili peppers may open sinuses, and help break up mucus in the lungs Cranberries may help prevent bacteria from sticking to cells lining the bladder and urinary tract Mustard or horseradish may helps break up mucus in air passages Onions contain phytochemicals purported to help the body clear bronchitis and other infections Black and green tea contain catechin, a phytochemical purported to have natural antibiotic and anti-diarrhea effects Remember, serious conditions, such as sinus infections, bronchitis, meningitis, strep throat, and asthma, can look like the common cold. If you have severe symptoms, or don't seem to be getting better, call your doctor.


Question: What is the best way to use a salve when sick?

Answer: A small dab of mentholated salve under your nose can help to open breathing passages and restore the irritated skin at the base of the nose. Menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor all have mild numbing ingredients that may help relieve the pain of a nose rubbed raw. However, only put it on the outside, under your nose, not inside your nose.


Question: What are the best foods to eat for a cold or the flu?

Answer: Here are some good foods to eat when you're battling a cold or flu: Bananas and rice to soothe an upset stomach and curb diarrhea Vitamin C-containing foods like bell peppers Blueberries curb diarrhea and are high in natural aspirin, which may lower fevers and help with aches and pains Carrots, which contain beta-carotene Chili peppers may open sinuses, and help break up mucus in the lungs Cranberries may help prevent bacteria from sticking to cells lining the bladder and urinary tract Mustard or horseradish may helps break up mucus in air passages Onions contain phytochemicals purported to help the body clear bronchitis and other infections Black and green tea contain catechin, a phytochemical purported to have natural antibiotic and anti-diarrhea effects Remember, serious conditions, such as sinus infections, bronchitis, meningitis, strep throat, and asthma, can look like the common cold.


Question: How does resting help a cold or the flu?

Answer: Staying warm and resting when you first come down with a cold or the flu helps your body direct its energy toward the immune battle.


Question: Can medication help back pain?

Answer: If needed, medication can help relieve pain allowing you to sleep better. These may include pain killers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and topical treatments. Short-term use of sleep medications may also help some people with sleep problems.


Question: What do prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels indicate in the diagnosis for metastatic prostate cancer?

Answer: PSA is a protein made by the prostate gland. A rise in PSA is one of the first signs your cancer may be growing. But PSA levels can also be high without there being cancer, such as if you have an enlarged prostate or a prostate infection. If you've been treated, especially if a surgeon removed your prostate, your PSA levels should start to go down. Doctors usually wait several weeks after surgery before checking PSA levels. A rise in PSA after treatment may suggest the possibility cancer is back or spreading. In that case, your doctor may order the same tests used to diagnose the original cancer, including a CT scan, MRI, or bone scan. The radiotracer Axumin could be used along with a PET scan to help detect and localize any recurrent cancer. Though very rare, it's possible to have metastatic prostate cancer without a higher-than-normal PSA level.


Question: What does it mean if you have locally advanced metastatic prostate cancer?

Answer: The goals of treatment are to: Manage symptoms Slow the rate your cancer grows Shrink the tumor Some cancers are called "locally advanced." That means the cancer has spread from the prostate to nearby tissue. It's not the same as metastatic cancer since it hasn't spread to other parts of your body. Many locally advanced prostate cancers can be cured.


Question: What are the chances of developing metastatic prostate cancer?

Answer: About 50% of men diagnosed with local prostate cancer will get metastatic cancer during their lifetime. Finding cancer early and treating it can lower that rate. A small percentage of men aren't diagnosed with prostate cancer until it has become metastatic. Doctors can find out if it's metastatic cancer when they take a small sample of the tissue and study the cells.


Question: What if you hate exercise but need to treat high triglycerides?

Answer: Solution: You're more likely to make exercise a part of your healthier life if it's convenient and enjoyable. It also helps to work out with a buddy who shares your goals. If you have aches or pains, see if your doctor can recommend a physical therapist. Your health insurance company may cover the cost if your doctor refers you. If your insurer doesn't cover physical therapy, also check out certified personal trainers to design a custom approach to exercise that will work with your lifestyle.


Question: How is pulsatile tinnitus treated?

Answer: Other tests might include: Brainstem auditory evoked response ( BAER), which times electrical waves from your brain in response to clicks in your ear Electrocochleography, which is similar to BAER but uses an electrode placed on or in your eardrum Scans of your brain and blood vessels, such as an MRI or CT scan Blood tests This kind of tinnitus is often the first clue that you have something else going on that needs to be treated. Your treatment plan will depend on what's causing your tinnitus. You may need medication or surgery repair a blood vessel. Once the condition that caused it is treated, the sound should stop.


Question: How can high blood pressure cause pulsatile tinnitus?

Answer: This can lead to a change in blood flow, and things like stress, alcohol, and caffeine can make the noise more noticeable.


Question: How is pulsatile tinnitus diagnosed?

Answer: You may need to see an ear specialist called an otolaryngologist. You'll have a hearing test, and the doctor will check your ears. She may also look at your jaw and check your eyes for signs of increased pressure in your brain. Other tests might include: Brainstem auditory evoked response ( BAER), which times electrical waves from your brain in response to clicks in your ear Electrocochleography, which is similar to BAER but uses an electrode placed on or in your eardrum Scans of your brain and blood vessels, such as an MRI or CT scan Blood tests This kind of tinnitus is often the first clue that you have something else going on that needs to be treated.


Question: What can you do if you might have pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)?

Answer: Talk to your doctor if you're having trouble with shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, or swelling in your legs and ankles. They can do some tests to find out what's going on. It's important to get the right diagnosis so you can get the right treatment. The sooner you treat PAH, the easier it is to control.


Question: What causes pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)?

Answer: Some things make you more likely to get the disease: A family history of the condition Other diseases of the heart and lungs Obesity If you've used some street drugs, like cocaine, or diet medicines Living at high altitudes Most people get PAH when another illness has damaged their heart or lungs. The most common problems that raise your pulmonary blood pressure are: Heart problems: Conditions like mitral valve disease or long-term high blood pressure damage the left side of the heart to the point that it doesn't work well. That makes blood back up in the blood vessels of the lungs. Lung diseases: When there's a problem in your lungs, your body tries to protect its oxygen supply. It keeps the blood away from damaged areas and forces it into healthy areas. It can happen if you have sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD), and diseases that scar the lungs, like emphysema. Blood clots Other diseases, including some blood disorders, thyroid disease and other metabolic disorders, and immune system disorders that affect many different parts of the body, like sarcoidosis and vasculitis.


Question: What is pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)?

Answer: Pulmonary arterial hypertension, or PAH, is a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in your lungs and the right side of your heart. It's a very serious condition that can change your day-to-day life. When you get the right diagnosis, though, you can get the care you need to ease your symptoms.


Question: What is pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) like?

Answer: Many people have PAH for a long time before they realize something is wrong. The symptoms are subtle at first. You may just feel tired or out of shape. And your doctor may mistake your condition for something more common.


Question: What are the early symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)?

Answer: The early symptoms are: Shortness of breath during normal physical activity Fatigue Chest pains A racing heartbeat As the disease gets worse, you may also have: Lightheadedness Fainting Swelling in your legs, hands, or belly Dry cough, sometimes with blood Blue lips or fingers Many people who get PAH are women between the ages of 30 and 60.


Question: What is pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) like as it gets worse?

Answer: The early symptoms are: Shortness of breath during normal physical activity Fatigue Chest pains A racing heartbeat As the disease gets worse, you may also have: Lightheadedness Fainting Swelling in your legs, hands, or belly Dry cough, sometimes with blood Blue lips or fingers Many people who get PAH are women between the ages of 30 and 60.


Question: What happens to your body if you have pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)?

Answer: Your heart pumps blood through your arteries, sending oxygen to all parts of your body. In a single heartbeat, the left side of your heart sends the blood out to your body, and blood returns to the right side from your body. The right side then pumps it through the pulmonary artery to the lungs, where it swaps carbon dioxide for oxygen. The oxygen-filled blood goes back to the left side of the heart, and the process starts again with the next heartbeat. It's a short distance from your heart to your lungs. So normally, the right side doesn't have to pump very hard. But with PAH, blood doesn't move easily through the arteries in your lungs. Your heart works much harder to force it through. Over time, the heart muscle gets weak. It can become enlarged and stop working properly. When your blood doesn't flow well, your body doesn't get enough oxygen.


Question: What is a 24-hour esophageal pH test?

Answer: Instead of having to have a tube placed down your nose for 24 hours, your doctor will place a disposable capsule into the esophagus using an endoscope.


Question: How is a BRAVO device used during an esophageal pH test?

Answer: A device known as BRAVO may make monitoring the p H level easier. Instead of having to have a tube placed down your nose for 24 hours, your doctor will place a disposable capsule into the esophagus using an endoscope. The capsule then wirelessly transmits information about esophageal acid activity to a receiver worn around the waist for 48 hours.


Question: Can I resume a normal diet after an esophageal pH test?

Answer: Record the following: The time when you start eating The time when you finish eating The time when you start lying down The time when you finish lying down You may resume your normal diet and activities after the esophageal p H test. If your throat feels sore following the test, suck on lozenges.


Question: What is a multiple sclerosis (MS) hug?

Answer: If you have multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, you might have felt a band of pain around your torso. It's often called the â MS hug.â Like most MS symptoms, it's different for each person.


Question: What are the symptoms of a multiple sclerosis (MS) hug?

Answer: It's often called the â MS hug.â Like most MS symptoms, it's different for each person. You might feel it right under your rib cage, in your chest, or anywhere between your neck and waistline. It can be: Burning Dull and achy pain Hard to breathe Pain on one side of your body Pressure Sharp pain Tickling Tightness Tingling or pins and needles Vibration It can last a few seconds to a few hours, and in rare cases, a few days. People often say it's like wearing a girdle around the middle of your body. For that reason, you may also hear it called by a number of names, like: Banding Girdle-band Girdling MS girdle You might feel it in your head, hands, or feet instead.


Question: How does a multiple sclerosis (MS) hug happen?

Answer: They hold your rib cage together and help it expand when you move, bend, or breathe. If these muscles have spasms, you feel painful, tightening pressure.


Question: What is happening when I feel pain from an MS hug?

Answer: They hold your rib cage together and help it expand when you move, bend, or breathe. If these muscles have spasms, you feel painful, tightening pressure.


Question: What should you do if you have a multiple sclerosis (MS) hug?

Answer: If you think you're having an MS hug, talk to your neurologist or main doctor right away. The symptoms can seem like those of a heart attack, so it's important to make sure that's not the case and to rule out any other causes of the pressure. Your doctor will most likely give you an MRI to look for other things, like gallbladder problems or lung disease. MS hug can also happen to people with other rib and spinal cord conditions.


Question: What does it feel like to have an MS hug?

Answer: It's often called the â MS hug.â Like most MS symptoms, it's different for each person. You might feel it right under your rib cage, in your chest, or anywhere between your neck and waistline. It can be: Burning Dull and achy pain Hard to breathe Pain on one side of your body Pressure Sharp pain Tickling Tightness Tingling or pins and needles Vibration It can last a few seconds to a few hours, and in rare cases, a few days. People often say it's like wearing a girdle around the middle of your body. For that reason, you may also hear it called by a number of names, like: Banding Girdle-band Girdling MS girdle You might feel it in your head, hands, or feet instead.


Question: What is "the MS hug?"

Answer: If you have multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that affects the brain and spinal cord, you might have felt a band of pain around your torso. It's often called the â MS hug.â Like most MS symptoms, it's different for each person.


Question: How is meningioma diagnosed?

Answer: The most common symptoms include: Headaches Seizures Blurred vision Weakness in arms or legs Numbness Speech problems Meningiomas are rarely diagnosed before they begin to cause symptoms. If symptoms indicate the possibility of a tumor, a doctor may order a brain scan: an MRI and/or a CT scan. These will allow the doctor to locate the meningioma and determine its size. A biopsy may sometimes be performed. A surgeon removes part or all of the tumor to determine whether it is benign or malignant.


Question: How is meningioma treated?

Answer: Regular brain scans will be performed to determine if the tumor is growing. If the tumor's growth threatens to cause problems or if symptoms begin to develop, surgery may be necessary. If surgery is required, a craniotomy will typically be performed. The procedure involves removing a piece of bone from the skull. This gives the surgeon access to the affected portion of the brain. The surgeon then removes the tumor -- or as much of it as possible. The bone that was removed at the start of the procedure is then replaced. The location of the meningioma will determine how accessible it is to the surgeon. If it can't be reached via surgery, radiation therapy may be used. Radiation can shrink the tumor or help prevent it from growing any larger. Radiation can also be used to kill cancer cells if the tumor is malignant. It may also be used on the parts of a tumor the surgeon was unable to remove.


Question: Can mindfullness help me lose weight?

Answer: With food, you have multiple chances to be mindful: Do a gut check to see if you're really hungry before you eat. Focus on each bite, savoring its flavor and texture. Notice if what you're saying to yourself is helpful. Do another gut check to see how full you are. That way you can stop eating when you feel full instead of mindlessly cleaning your plate.


Question: How can the symptoms of interstitial cystitis vary?

Answer: These vary from person to person with IC. They can change every day or week or linger for months or years. They might even go away without any treatment.


Question: What are common symptoms of interstitial cystitis?

Answer: Common symptoms: Bladder pressure and pain that gets worse as your bladder fills up. Pain in your lower tummy, lower back, pelvis, or urethra (the tube that carries pee from your bladder out of your body) For women, pain in the vulva, vagina, or the area behind the vagina For men, pain in the scrotum, testicles, penis, or the area behind the scrotum The need to pee often (more than the normal 7-8 times daily) The feeling you need to pee right now, even right after you go For women, pain during sex For men, pain during orgasm or after sex The bladder pain people feel with IC can range from a dull ache to piercing pain.


Question: What causes interstitial cystitis?

Answer: It's not clear why it happens, but there are several ideas: A problem with bladder tissue lets things in your pee irritate your bladder. Inflammation causes your body to release chemicals that cause symptoms. Something in your urine damages your bladder. A nerve problem makes your bladder feel pain from things that usually don't hurt. Your immune system attacks the bladder. Another condition that causes inflammation is also targeting the bladder.


Question: What are the second-line treatments for interstitial cystitis?

Answer: If lifestyle changes aren't enough, then try the next line of treatments: Physical therapy. To help relax your pelvic muscles. Amitriptyline. This drug controls bladder spasms. It's the most widely used oral medication for IC. Pentosan ( Elmiron). It's not clear how this drug works, but it might help rebuild the bladder tissue lining. It can take a few months to relieve symptoms. Hydroxyzine. This drug is an antihistamine and can be helpful if you have to pee a lot at night.


Question: What is the first stage of treatment for interstitial cystitis?

Answer: The first stage of treatment is to try to avoid triggers and try lifestyle changes that may help ease symptoms. Retrain your bladder to hold more urine. For example, if you feel the need to pee every 30 minutes, try to stretch it out to 45 minutes. Cut down on stress. It can be a trigger. Taking 5 minutes a day to do something for yourself can be a start. Stretch, read a book. Relaxation techniques, talking to a friend, or meditation may help. Wear loose clothing. Tight clothes can put pressure on your bladder. Do low-impact exercise. For example, walk or stretch. Change what you eat and drink to avoid triggers. See below for examples of possible trigger foods and drinks. If you smoke, quit.


Question: What are final steps in interstitial cystitis treatment?

Answer: When all else fails, here's what you could try: Cyclosporine. This drug suppresses your immune system. Surgery. In very rare cases when nothing else works, this may be an option. This is a complex operation that diverts your urine away from your bladder.


Question: What tests are used to rule out other conditions related to interstitial cystitis?

Answer: These tests can rule out other conditions: Urinalysis and urine culture. You'll be asked to pee in a cup. It'll be sent to a lab to check for infection. Postvoid residual urine volume. Using an ultrasound, this test measures the amount of pee that remains in your bladder after you go to the bathroom. Cystoscopy. A thin tube with a camera is used to see the inside of the bladder and urethra. This is usually done only if there is blood in your pee or if treatment doesn't help. Bladder and urethra biopsy. A small piece of tissue is taken and tested. This is usually done during cystoscopy. Bladder stretching. Your bladder is filled with liquid or gas to stretch it out. You'll be asleep under anesthesia. Sometimes this is also used as a treatment. This is done with a cystoscopy. Prostate fluid culture (in men). Your doctor will need to press on your prostate and milk a sample to test. This is not commonly done.


Question: What foods should you avoid to help with interstitial cystitis?

Answer: Common triggers: Citrus fruits like oranges and lemons Tomatoes Chocolate Caffeinated drinks like coffee and sodas Carbonated drinks Alcohol Spicy foods Artificial sweeteners Talk to your doctor about an elimination diet, which could help you figure out what's affecting your bladder.


Question: What is interstitial cystitis?

Answer: IC is a chronic bladder problem. Your bladder holds pee after your kidneys have filtered it but before you pee it out. This condition causes pain and pressure below your belly button. Symptoms can come and go. Or they may be constant. Interstitial cystitis causes urgent, often painful bathroom trips. You may have to pee as many as 40-60 times a day in severe cases. It can even keep you up at night.