Question: What affects the duration and symptoms of chronic cancer?

Answer: Often they don't have a cure, but you can live with them and manage their symptoms. There are many things that affect how long your cancer treatment could last, including: What type of cancer you have Your treatment schedule or plan How often your cancer has come back How aggressive it is Your age Your overall health How well you handle treatment How well the cancer responds to treatment The types of treatment you get Cancer care starts at prevention and continues through early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and survival.


Question: Is it possible to take chemotherapy in pill form?

Answer: The disease can also go through cycles of growing, shrinking, and staying the same. Chemo to Go: In the past, many cancers needed chemotherapy or other IV drug treatment. Now, in some cases, you can get the same or better results with pills you can take at home. That means fewer trips to the doctor. However, taking chemotherapy in pill form has issues, too. It can be more expensive than IV chemotherapy. You also won't have a care team to remind you how and when to take it. For instance, a family doctor can help you keep track of everything outside of your cancer, like taking your annual flu shot and making sure the rest of your body is working at its best.


Question: Why does my child cough?

Answer: But if it's caused by a virus, antibiotics won't make it stop. Viral infections have to run their course. Those symptoms, body aches, and a fever often come with the flu. But call the doctor if your child: Is not drinking or eating enough Makes a whooping sound when he breathes Runs a high fever Wheezes when he breathes Has a cough that lasts more than a month Doesn't look well to you Seek emergency help if your child: Coughs up blood Has blue lips, face, or tongue Has trouble breathing


Question: What factors increase the chance of getting osteoarthritis (OA)?

Answer: By age 65, more than half of us will have X-ray evidence of osteoarthritis, a disease in which the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones at the joints breaks down and bony overgrowth occurs. For many, the result is stiffness and pain in the joint. Suffering a joint injury when you are young predisposes you to osteoarthritis in the same joint when you are older.


Question: How do you take care of a nebulizer?

Answer: Every third day, after washing your equipment, disinfect the equipment using either a vinegar/water solution or the disinfectant solution your equipment supplier suggests. Storing Cover the compressor with a clean cloth when not in use. Keep it clean by wiping it with a clean, damp cloth as needed. Do not put the air compressor on the floor either for treatments or for storage. Replace or clean according to the directions from your equipment supplier.


Question: How do you get a nebulizer?

Answer: To obtain a nebulizer, you need a prescription from your doctor, or it can be dispensed from your pediatrician's office. Portable nebulizers usually cost a little more than home nebulizers. Both are usually covered under the durable medical equipment portion of health insurance policies. But, most insurance companies will require you to work with a specified durable medical equipment supplier.


Question: How can I avoid a latex allergy while at home?

Answer: Use non-latex gloves for cleaning, washing dishes, and other household chores. Check your clothes for elastic waistbands or rubber soles. Check your bathroom for latex condoms, rubber bath-mats, and rubber grips on toothbrushes. Don't use erasers, either. If you know you might have a serious allergic reaction , carry two epinephrine injections, like an Epi Pen. Watch what you eat. Some people with latex allergies have reactions to foods such as: Bananas Avocados Kiwis Chestnuts


Question: How can you sleep better with bipolar disorder?

Answer: Include information about: How long it takes to go to sleep How many times you wake up during the night How long you sleep all night When you take medication or use caffeine, alcohol, or nicotine When you exercise and for how long Certain bipolar medications may also affect sleep as a side effect. Steps like these may also help restore sleep: Eliminate alcohol and caffeine late in the day.


Question: When should I seek emergency help for an ice pick headache?

Answer: It's not clear what causes ice pick headaches. But other brain conditions that are could make you feel similar pains. If you have brief headaches that feel like stabbing, see your doctor to rule out other health concerns.


Question: What does an ice pick headache feel like?

Answer: It's like someone's stabbing your face with an ice pick. That's why they're also called stabbing headaches. Many people from time to time feel quick jabs or jolts of severe pain around one of their eyes or at their temple. They usually last only a few seconds. Write down when you have an ice pick headache and what happened before it started.


Question: When should you seek emergency help for ice pick headaches?

Answer: It's not clear what causes ice pick headaches. But other brain conditions that are could make you feel similar pains. If you have brief headaches that feel like stabbing, see your doctor to rule out other health concerns.


Question: What are some ways to ease fatigue from psoriatic arthritis?

Answer: Studies show close to 80% of people with psoriatic arthritis have some degree of fatigue. The joint pain and skin rashes that can come with this type of arthritis may also keep you from getting a good night's sleep. A medication might help you get better rest. If you have psoriatic arthritis and need a nap to get through the day, some simple changes can boost your energy and make you feel better. Avoid sugars or starchy items that give you a short-term lift and then leave you drained. Stay active. That'll help you sleep better. The truth is, they'll make it harder for you to fall asleep or stay asleep. Your body prefers a routine at bedtime. Listen to soft music or read a book to take your mind off your daily stress. Write it down: It can help to keep a journal of what causes your fatigue and when you notice it most.


Question: Why should you not use your phone before bedtime?

Answer: Stay active. Don't eat for 2 to 3 hours before bedtime.


Question: How does chondroitin interact with other drugs?

Answer: If you're interested in using chondroitin for arthritis pain, talk to your doctor about the latest evidence. They could interact with drugs like blood thinners and NSAID painkillers or supplements like ginkgo biloba, garlic, and saw palmetto. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, chondroitin supplements are not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.


Question: How can I use exercise to boost my metabolism?

Answer: You need to challenge your muscles often in these two ways: 1. Amp up your workout. Try intervals. The basic idea is to switch back and forth between higher and lower intensity. You make it really challenging, and then back down your pace, and repeat. Lift weights. Because muscle uses more calories than fat, strengthening your muscles will make you into a more efficient calorie-burning machine, even when you're at rest. It's a win all around.


Question: What does behavioral therapy of ADHD involve?

Answer: The main components of this approach are medications, behavioral therapy, and education. This may involve helping the child learn to organize time and activities. It may also involve helping the child control his or her impulses and responses to emotional stimuli.


Question: What mental health problems are linked to Parkinson's disease?

Answer: It's common in people with Parkinson's disease. Depression can sometimes make your Parkinson's symptoms worse. Some mental health issues are side effects of Parkinson's treatments, like hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions. An example of paranoia is when you think someone is following you when they are not. A delusion is when you are convinced something is true, despite clear evidence that proves it's not.


Question: What antipsychotic medications won't worsen symptoms of Parkinson's disease?

Answer: If this happens to you, there are plenty of ways to treat it, so make sure you let your doctor know how you feel. If changing your Parkinson's medication causes your Parkinson's symptoms to get worse, your doctor may recommend you stick with it but take antipsychotic drugs at the same time. The medication pimavanserin ( Nuplazid) was approved by the FDA to specifically treat psychosis that goes along with Parkinson's disease. Other drugs, such as olanzapine ( Zyprexa), quetiapine ( Seroquel), and clozapine ( Clorazil) can control hallucinations at low doses without making your Parkinson's symptoms worse.


Question: How do you treat depression in Parkinson's disease?

Answer: It's common in people with Parkinson's disease. There are many antidepressant medications, and each has pros and cons. Most people should not take amoxapine ( Asendin) because it could temporarily make Parkinson's symptoms worse. Psychological therapy can help you rebuild your sense of self-worth. An example of paranoia is when you think someone is following you when they are not.


Question: How are mental problems linked to Parkinson's disease treated?

Answer: It's common in people with Parkinson's disease. Some mental health issues are side effects of Parkinson's treatments, like hallucinations, paranoia, and delusions. She'll check for imbalances in chemicals in your blood that help send nerve signals. She may also check to see how well your kidney, liver, or lungs are working, as well as test for certain infections. If you feel depressed or notice any mental health problems, talk to your doctor right away.


Question: How can scratching affect your eczema?

Answer: If you have it, you just want it to stop. That's true with eczema, too. It increases inflammation, which makes you itch even more. Over time, skin that's constantly irritated can get thick and leathery. Scratching can also cause an infection. If you tend to scratch at night while you sleep, you could wear cotton gloves to bed to protect your skin.


Question: What other tips can help you manage your eczema?

Answer: She may recommend these if your itch is really bad. You may have to try a few options before you find some that help you, but keep working together with your doctor.


Question: How can I stay moisturized if I have eczema?

Answer: When you have eczema, your skin doesn't hold in moisture very well on its own. Try adding half a cup of bleach to a full bath -- it kills bacteria that could be making your eczema worse. Or a packet of colloidal oatmeal in the water may feel soothing, too. Seal in moisture. Moisturize as soon as you get out of the tub or shower, while your skin is still wet. Ointments and thick creams work better than lotions to lock in water. Rub it all over several times a day, and reapply to your hands every time you wash them. Ask your doctor about wet wraps. She may recommend these if your itch is really bad. After you moisturize, cover the itchy skin with wet gauze or fabric, then wrap it with a dry cloth. You can leave it on for several hours. Humidify. A household humidifier can help in dry climates and in winter when your heat is on.


Question: How can eczema affect you?

Answer: It can keep you up at night and lead to skin damage. If you have it, you just want it to stop. Your doctor can help you find the right treatments to control the condition, but try these tips at home to fight the itch. If you can pinpoint what causes your flares, you may be able to stop the itching before it starts.


Question: How is Stevens-Johnson syndrome treated?

Answer: You're more likely to get SJS if you have: HIV or other problems with your immune system Had SJS before Certain genes you inherit from your parents Radiation treatments You'll be treated for SJS in the hospital by a special team of doctors and nurses. Some people are treated in a burn center or intensive care unit. The first thing doctors will do is to stop the medication or treat the infection that made you sick. They'll also try to relieve your symptoms, prevent infections, and support your healing. Your body needs to stay hydrated, and your skin needs protein to rebuild. You'll probably get fluids from an IV at first, then be fed through a tube that goes into your stomach through your nose. Your care team will clean your eyes and use special drops and creams to keep them from drying out.


Question: Who usually gets bladder infections?

Answer: Usually, the infections are more annoying than they are serious, and antibiotics are the treatment. But they can travel up the ureters to the kidneys and cause more severe problems, so it's important to treat them right away. Bladder infections are more common in women than men for several reasons.


Question: What makes bladder infections more common in women?

Answer: Women get bladder infections much more than men do. Having sex, wiping from back to front after you go to the bathroom, putting in a tampon, and using a diaphragm for birth control are all ways bacteria can get in. That causes the lining of the urethra to get thinner and may change the balance of bacteria in the vagina, making infections more likely.


Question: What is the treatment for thyroid cancer?

Answer: It will depend on the size and location of the tumor. It may also be used for cancer that spreads to nearby lymph nodes, spreads to other parts of the body, or returns. Usually, there are fewer side effects than with chemotherapy.


Question: What is targeted therapy for thyroid cancer?

Answer: It may also be used for cancer that spreads to nearby lymph nodes, spreads to other parts of the body, or returns. The level of radiation in this treatment is far higher than what is used in a radioiodine scan. Usually, there are fewer side effects than with chemotherapy.


Question: What are the different types of heart disease?

Answer: They can include: Coronary artery disease (including heart attack) Abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmias Heart failure Heart valve disease Congenital heart disease Heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy) Pericardial disease Aorta disease and Marfan syndrome Vascular disease (blood vessel disease) Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the U. S. It is important to learn about your heart to help prevent heart disease. Congenital heart disease is a type of defect in one or more structures of the heart or blood vessels that occur before birth.


Question: What causes tonsillitis?

Answer: A common cause is Streptococcus (strep) bacteria. Other common causes include: Adenoviruses Influenza virus Epstein- Barr virus Parainfluenza viruses Enteroviruses Herpes simplex virus The main symptoms of tonsillitis are inflammation and swelling of the tonsils, sometimes severe enough to block the airways. A lab test can detect a bacterial infection.


Question: What is tonsillitis?

Answer: But sometimes the tonsils themselves become infected. Overwhelmed by bacteria or viruses, they swell and become inflamed, a condition known as tonsillitis. Tonsillitis is common, especially in children. The condition can occur occasionally or recur frequently. Both tests involve gently swabbing the back of the throat close to the tonsils with a cotton swab.


Question: Why does my panic attack feel like it will never stop?

Answer: If you get a panic attack, it usually lasts 20 to 30 minutes, hitting its peak at about 10 minutes in. That's why panic attacks that last as long as an hour aren't very common. If that's happening to you, it's likely one of three things: Waves of panic attacks Aftereffects of a single panic attack Another health condition If you have panic attack symptoms for an hour or more, you may really be having a wave of panic attacks, one after another. The overall effect feels like you're being hit with one never-ending attack. The fight or flight response is so draining, it's hard to set it off that often.


Question: How can you tell a panic attack from high anxiety?

Answer: A more likely possibility is that you had a single panic attack that leaves you feeling generally anxious, tired, and frayed. It's tricky. A true panic attack tends to have clear, intense, physical symptoms -- a pounding heart, shortness of breath, and so on. Anxiety can give you some of these, but they tend to be milder. Instead, you'll have more mental symptoms like a racing mind, lots of worries you can't stop, and a hard time focusing. You might also feel restless and have a hard time sleeping.


Question: Why would a panic attack keep going?

Answer: So what's going on if it seems to you like your panic attack just won't end? If that's happening to you, it's likely one of three things: Waves of panic attacks Aftereffects of a single panic attack Another health condition If you have panic attack symptoms for an hour or more, you may really be having a wave of panic attacks, one after another.


Question: What are the do's and don'ts of wearing socks for people with diabetes?

Answer: DO: Always wear shoes when you're on your feet. DON' T: Don't walk around barefoot or only in socks. DO: Choose well-padded socks in a cotton-based material, and change them every day. DON' T: Don't wear socks that have an inside seam or an elastic band at the top. DO: Wear socks to bed if you have cold feet. DON' T: Don't use water bottles, electric blankets, or heating pads on your feet, because they could cause burns.


Question: What are the do's and don'ts of moving your feet for people with diabetes?

Answer: Diabetes & Your Feet: Dos and Don'ts of Foot Care One of the best things you can do for your feet is to keep your blood sugar levels under control. DON' T: Don't stand in one position for a long time or sit with your legs crossed. These can block blood flow to your feet. DO: Stay active. Aim to move your body at least 30 minutes a day. Ask your doctor what type of activity is best for you. DON' T: Don't smoke. Smoking can also curb blood flow to your feet.


Question: How does tailored medicine work?

Answer: They also might: Check your genes to decide if a medication will work for you Test cells in your tumor to find out what kind of treatment to use to treat it Do a genetic test to see if you have changes that make it more likely that you'll get certain diseases Tailored medicine isn't just about genetics, though. Doctors can also use your individual and family health history, things in your lifestyle like diet and exercise habits, and your environment (for example, pollution levels near you) to decide on the right treatment for you. If your genes show your odds are higher than average, your doctor may suggest ways to make it less likely that you'll get that disease.


Question: What Is jaundice?

Answer: Newborn babies often get it. But adults can, too. Jaundice happens when there's too much bilirubin, a yellow-orange substance, in your blood. It's found in your red blood cells. When those cells die, the liver filters it from the bloodstream. But if something's wrong and your liver can't keep up, bilirubin builds up and can cause your skin to look yellow. But your doctor will treat the condition that's causing it.


Question: How is jaundice diagnosed?

Answer: Jaundice happens when there's too much bilirubin, a yellow-orange substance, in your blood. If you have jaundice, your level of bilirubin will be high. Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. She may also give you a physical exam and order tests to check your liver. And she'll do more tests, including imaging tests to find out what caused it.


Question: Whoy do adults get jaundice?

Answer: But adults can, too. Some of these include: Hepatitis: Most of the time, this infection is caused by a virus. Pancreatic cancer: This is the 10th most common cancer in men and the ninth in women.


Question: What tests are used to diagnose tachycardia?

Answer: This records the electrical activity in your heart and helps your doctor search for things that don't look normal. You may have to wear a holter monitor, a portable machine that records your ECG signals over 24 hours. Exercise stress test. Your doctor will have you walk on a treadmill while he monitors your heart activity. Magnetic source imaging: This measures the heart muscle's magnetic fields and looks for weaknesses. These might include lifestyle changes like easing stress or taking medicine to lower a fever.


Question: Why is surgery on an undescended testicle called for at such an early age?

Answer: Now they recommend it at 6 to 12 months -- 18 months at the latest. Doctors now know that important changes in the testicles happen very early in life. By the time a boy is just 1 year old, an undescended testicle can start to lose the cells that make sperm. And the longer the testicle stays lodged, the higher the odds that the problem could get worse.


Question: Is tau bad for you?

Answer: The clumped tau also spreads to other cells and makes it harder for the brain to work. This is CTE. Make sure all gear is worn properly.


Question: What is chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)?

Answer: Doctors first identified it under a different name in the 1920s in aging boxers. CTE results from cumulative damage and usually happens years later. When you've had repeated blows to the head, including concussions, they set off a slow series of events that may lead to brain problems. But people who play or have played contact sports face the highest risk.


Question: What are the symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and how do I avoid it after surgery?

Answer: Get up and move around as soon as you can after surgery. It's a blood clot in a vein deep inside your thigh or belly. DVT can be dangerous because if the clot breaks free, it can travel to your lungs and block blood flow. This is called a pulmonary embolism. Symptoms include: Sudden shortness of breath Coughing Chest pain Often, these are the first signs you'll have of trouble, and it's a medical emergency. Even simple leg lifts in bed can boost your circulation and lower your chances of DVT.


Question: What are some problems with using the bathroom after a surgery?

Answer: And there are plenty of options for managing your pain. You'll also be also less likely to have complications like blood clots or pneumonia. Some types of anesthesia can make it hard for you to pee. If you feel like you need to go but can't, your doctor may have to put a small tube called a catheter into your urethra to help you empty your bladder. Get up and move around when your doctor says it's OK. Eat nutritious foods to help you heal and keep your energy up.


Question: What are some common causes of cat ear discharge?

Answer: The most common causes of ear discharge in cats include: Ear mites . An ear mite infestation can get so bad, that along with a lot of head shaking, your cat may scratch hard enough to create bloody sores; an ear infection may result. Ear infections . Ear infections are not only extremely uncomfortable for your cat, but if left untreated they can lead to permanent deafness or a need for surgery. Other causes . Ear discharge in cats may result from other problems, including food or inhalant allergies, wax buildup, tumors, polyps, drug reactions, a hereditary condition, or immune system issues.


Question: How are ear mites in cats treated?

Answer: So tiny you usually need a microscope to see them, ear mites are the most common cause of cat ear problems, and they can be very irritating to your cat. An ear mite infestation can get so bad, that along with a lot of head shaking, your cat may scratch hard enough to create bloody sores; an ear infection may result. Depending on what your veterinarian finds, treatment for your cat’s ear discharge might include: Treating cat ear mites .


Question: How are ear infections in cats treated?

Answer: Ear infections in cats can be caused by many things, including bacteria, yeast, even a piece of debris caught in her ear canal. Depending on what your veterinarian finds, treatment for your cat’s ear discharge might include: Treating cat ear mites .


Question: What are some precautions to take after laser eye surgery?

Answer: into your eyes during the first few days after surgery. Be careful when you're in the shower or bath. Be sure to keep soap out of your eye when you wash your hair, and watch out for hair spray and shaving lotion. Don't rub your eyes for at least a month. Don't drive until you feel comfortable. Get your doctor's OK first. Wear the eye shield/goggles the doctor gave you while you sleep for the first week. Keep tap water out of your eyes for at least a week. Avoid pools, whirlpools, saunas, and lakes for at least 3 weeks. No eye makeup for at least a week. Toss out partly used products to avoid an infection. Don't get your hair colored or permed for at least 10 days. No exercise for two days. Wear eye protection for at least a month once you start exercise and sports activities again. Bright sunshine may cause scarring, so wear sunglasses on bright days for at least a year.


Question: What does the heart do?

Answer: Blood flows continuously through your body's blood vessels. On the inside, the heart is a four-chambered, hollow organ. Exercise, emotions, fever, and some medications can cause your heart to beat faster, sometimes to well over 100 beats per minute.


Question: What does it mean if your baby's skin looks blue?

Answer: Fortunately, in most cases it's quite normal and harmless as long as it's temporary. An off-and-on blue cast to the hands and feet, with pink skin elsewhere, is not a sign of a problem, but rather just a little bit of immaturity of the circulatory system, which will go away over time.


Question: How do you treat back pain?

Answer: It curves back at your shoulders and inward at your neck and small of your back. A physical therapist can work with you to design a set of exercises, give you relief from the pain, and get you moving again. Over-the-counter pain relievers, ice, and heat will work to take the edge off most back pain. If a bone is damaged, or you have a herniated disk or pinched nerve, you may need surgery. But for ongoing back pain, doctors will try other treatments first. Exercise!


Question: What are the causes of cradle cap?

Answer: They think the rough patches may appear when the oil glands in your baby's skin produce more oil than they need to. Doctors think the glands sometimes work harder because of the influence of the mother's hormones. They're left over from when your baby was in your womb. Some doctors may prescribe hydrocortisone cream for cradle cap, but only if the scalp is inflamed.


Question: What causes blocked tear ducts in adults?

Answer: In adults, tear ducts can get blocked for lots of reasons: The holes in the corners of the eyes, the puncta, narrow due to age. Trauma cuts the drainage duct. A broken nose or other injury leaves scar tissue that presses on the tear duct. Small, rounded growths called polyps form in the nose and block the duct. An infection in the eye or nose causes swelling around the tear duct. Sinus surgery damages the tear ducts or the holes that drain to them. Eye drops to treat glaucoma make the conjunctiva and the tear ducts swell. Radioactive iodine and chemotherapy treatment for cancer cause swelling in the tear ducts.


Question: What are blocked tear ducts?

Answer: They flow across the surface of your eyes to clean and moisten them, then they leave your eyes through a system of tiny drainage tubes that run along your nose. Sometimes these tubes can get narrowed or blocked, which prevents the tears from draining out of your eyes. This extra fluid can leave your eyes watery. If your eyes are watery and irritated, get them checked to find out whether it's a blocked tear duct. If it is, your eye doctor has things he can do to open up the blockage and help your tears flow normally again. If the portion of the tear duct in the bone of the nose is blocked, it can cause a serious infection of the tear sac called dacryocystitis. Tear duct probing.


Question: How long will my knee pain last?

Answer: It depends. Arthritis pain tends to wax and wane over time. It may not completely go away, but sometimes it feels much better. Pain from an injury improves at first, but if you're left with a sore joint, you may not be able to do certain activities. Just a millisecond or two of delay of muscle function can cause injury.


Question: When should I consider seeing a professional for mental support after a melanoma diagnosis?

Answer: It can be scary to learn you have melanoma. You don't have to take your doctor's word as the final say on either of them. There are lots of them who can give advice and, most importantly, hope. One day, you may be able to return the favor.


Question: Why is it important to learn about melanoma after being diagnosed?

Answer: It can be scary to learn you have melanoma. And less stress means a better shot at recovery.


Question: Do I still need a second opinion if I am sure that I have melanoma after the first diagnosis?

Answer: There are many cancer treatments out there, and what works for one person may not work for you. Don't feel bad. Doctors are used to patients asking for second opinions. Some even recommend it. And not only will most insurance companies pay for a visit to another doc, some require it. But be prepared to have more than one conversation with them about it.


Question: Should you wait until you are in Crohn's remission before becoming pregnant?

Answer: You can have a healthy pregnancy and delivery even if you have Crohn's disease. Talk to both your OB- GYN and your gastroenterologist. It is probably not a good idea to have a colonoscopy.


Question: If you have Crohn's disease, what should you ask your doctor before you try to get pregnant?

Answer: If you take methotrexate, your doctor will suggest you stop before your pregnancy. If you've had surgery for Crohn's you can still have a healthy pregnancy, but it may be harder to get pregnant.


Question: What monitoring tests for Crohn's are considered safe during pregnancy?

Answer: If you're thinking about becoming pregnant, it's a good idea to make sure your Crohn's is in remission first. Ultrasounds, MRIs, and fetal monitoring devices are considered safe. If you are on steroids or have moderate to severe flares while pregnant, you may have frequent ultrasounds to check on your baby's growth. X-rays and CT scans may be necessary during pregnancy. To limit radiation exposure, abdominal shielding can be used.


Question: Can you have a healthy pregnancy with Crohn's disease?

Answer: If you've had surgery for Crohn's you can still have a healthy pregnancy, but it may be harder to get pregnant. When you're pregnant, have regular visits with both your OB- GYN and your gastroenterologist to monitor your baby's health and your Crohn's.


Question: Who is most at risk for peritoneal cancer?

Answer: Peritoneal cancer starts in the peritoneum, and hence is called primary peritoneal cancer. Despite its similarities with ovarian cancer, you can have peritoneal cancer even if your ovaries have been removed. Older age is another risk factor for peritoneal cancer.


Question: What tests may be given for peritoneal cancer?

Answer: High-frequency sound waves produce a picture called a sonogram. CA-125 blood test. This test measures levels of a chemical in the blood called CA-125. If levels are high, peritoneal or ovarian cancer may be present. But CA-125 can be high for other reasons. So, this test cannot confirm a diagnosis of these cancers. CT scan . A computer linked to an X-ray machine produces detailed pictures of the inside the body. Lower GI series or barium enema. With this test, you first receive an enema containing a white, chalky solution called barium. This outlines the colon and rectum on an X-ray. It makes it possible to spot some tumors and other problems. Upper GI series. With this test, barium is swallowed and the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) are outlined on an X-ray. Biopsy . A surgeon removes tissue by opening the abdomen during a laparotomy or by inserting tools through small holes in the abdomen (laparoscopy). If the doctor suspects cancer, he or she may remove one or more organs. A pathologist studies the tissue sample under a microscope to confirm a diagnosis of cancer. Paracentesis. In cases where surgery is not possible or ascites could be due to other causes, the doctor may instead remove fluid for examination under a microscope. You may have more than one type of treatment for peritoneal cancer.


Question: How is palliative care used to treat peritoneal cancer?

Answer: Supportive care can help relieve symptoms of peritoneal cancer such as pain, weight loss, or fluid buildup. That's because this cancer is often diagnosed in an advanced stage.


Question: How can you tell if you have peritoneal cancer in an exam?

Answer: A pathologist studies the tissue sample under a microscope to confirm a diagnosis of cancer. So, the pattern and location of any tumors helps indicate which type of cancer is present.


Question: What causes peritoneal cancer?

Answer: However, there are different theories about how it begins. Some believe it comes from ovarian tissue implants left in the abdomen during fetal development. Others think the peritoneum undergoes changes that make it more like the ovaries. The type of treatment you have depends upon: The stage and grade of the cancer The size and location of the cancer Your age and overall health Treatments for peritoneal cancer include: Surgery.


Question: How is a CT scan used to diagnose peritoneal cancer?

Answer: Just as with ovarian cancer, peritoneal cancer can be hard to detect in the early stages. A computer linked to an X-ray machine produces detailed pictures of the inside the body.


Question: How is an upper GI series used to diagnose peritoneal cancer?

Answer: Just as with ovarian cancer, peritoneal cancer can be hard to detect in the early stages. With this test, you first receive an enema containing a white, chalky solution called barium. With this test, barium is swallowed and the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine) are outlined on an X-ray.


Question: Are the symptoms of peritoneal cancer easy to spot?

Answer: Then, symptoms resemble those of ovarian cancer. Many of these symptoms are due to buildup of fluid (ascites) in the abdomen. Doctors often diagnose peritoneal cancer in advanced stages.


Question: What is peritoneal cancer?

Answer: It also covers the uterus, bladder, and rectum. Made of epithelial cells, this structure is called the peritoneum. It produces a fluid that helps organs move smoothly inside the abdomen. Peritoneal cancer is not the same as intestinal or stomach cancer. Nor is it to be confused with cancers that spread (metastasize) to the peritoneum. Peritoneal cancer starts in the peritoneum, and hence is called primary peritoneal cancer. Some believe it comes from ovarian tissue implants left in the abdomen during fetal development.


Question: What should you expect if you have peritoneal cancer?

Answer: To stage and treat this cancer, a surgeon removes all visible disease. These doctors have special knowledge of gynecologic cancers. Your doctors will closely watch you after treatment. Peritoneal cancer can spread quickly because the peritoneum is rich in lymph and blood through which it can travel. Recurrence after treatment is common with peritoneal cancer. That's because this cancer is often diagnosed in an advanced stage. You may need more than one round of chemotherapy or other surgeries. Be sure to seek support for yourself as you go through treatment and healing.


Question: What is the common cold?

Answer: Although the common cold is usually mild, with symptoms lasting 1 to 2 weeks, it is a leading cause of doctor visits and missed days from school and work. The most common cold-causing viruses survive better when humidity is low-the colder months of the year. Cold weather also may make the inside lining of your nose drier and more vulnerable to viral infection.


Question: How can I figure out what type of functional constipation I have?

Answer: When you have chronic (long-lasting) constipation, you need to find out what's causing it. When you have this, muscles in your colon squeeze and relax the way they should: not too fast and not too slow.


Question: Why would I want to take a coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplement?

Answer: Co Q10 is also used to treat heart failure and other heart conditions, possibly helping to improve some symptoms and lessen future cardiac risks when combined with regular medications, but the evidence is conflicting. Though still controversial, some preliminary evidence suggests that Co Q10 may help to prevent or treat the adverse effects, such as muscle pains and liver problems, of taking statin-type cholesterol drugs. Follow the instructions on the bottle or get advice from your doctor or a dietitian. Co Q10 may lower blood sugar levels and blood pressure.


Question: What should I do if I think I might have ADHD?

Answer: That's because the disorder has a number of possible symptoms, and they can easily be confused with those of other conditions, like depression or anxiety. Problems with attention, especially focusing for long periods of time or paying attention to details, is one of the hallmarks of the condition.


Question: Is it possible to have ADHD as an adult if I never had it as a child?

Answer: You need to have had attention and concentration problems as a child in order to be diagnosed with ADHD as an adult -- even if those early symptoms didn't come with a formal diagnosis. People may have accused you of being lazy back in childhood. If you actually were diagnosed with the disorder as a child, you may still have it. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, you need to have several symptoms, not just one or two.


Question: How can you diagnose ADHD?

Answer: This happens often and to a greater degree with ADHD, even when there are no distractions around. Instead, doctors and psychologists get information about what and how many symptoms you have, when they started, how long they've lasted, and how severe they are. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, you need to have several symptoms, not just one or two. And they have to have affected your jobs, relationships, or other important areas of your life. Your doctor will also want to rule out other conditions or find out if you have more than one disorder. Several treatments can help you manage the condition. So if you answered yes to a lot of these questions, consider making an appointment with your doctor. The sooner you find out, the sooner you can start treatment.


Question: Are unfinished projects a sign of ADHD?

Answer: Problems with attention, especially focusing for long periods of time or paying attention to details, is one of the hallmarks of the condition. This symptom can point to depression, too.


Question: Is forgetfulness a sign of ADHD?

Answer: You might spend time looking for glasses, wallets, phones, and other items every day. You may also forget to return phone calls, space out on paying bills, or miss medical appointments. Most of us lose focus on a conversation once in a while, especially if there's a TV nearby or something else grabs our attention. This happens often and to a greater degree with ADHD, even when there are no distractions around.


Question: Are behavioral issues as a child a sign of ADHD?

Answer: That's because the disorder has a number of possible symptoms, and they can easily be confused with those of other conditions, like depression or anxiety. You need to have had attention and concentration problems as a child in order to be diagnosed with ADHD as an adult -- even if those early symptoms didn't come with a formal diagnosis. If you actually were diagnosed with the disorder as a child, you may still have it. In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, you need to have several symptoms, not just one or two.


Question: Is lateness a sign of ADHD?

Answer: Most of us lose focus on a conversation once in a while, especially if there's a TV nearby or something else grabs our attention. Time management is an ongoing challenge when you have ADHD. It often leads to missed deadlines or appointments unless you work on avoiding that.


Question: How do you know if you have ADHD?

Answer: That's because the disorder has a number of possible symptoms, and they can easily be confused with those of other conditions, like depression or anxiety. Problems with attention, especially focusing for long periods of time or paying attention to details, is one of the hallmarks of the condition.


Question: Is tardiness common in people with ADHD?

Answer: But this kind of thing happens often when you have ADHD. It often leads to missed deadlines or appointments unless you work on avoiding that.


Question: What conditions are linked with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS)?

Answer: HS is called a progressive disease. But it may be that whatever causes HS leads to other problems, too. It's rare, but people who have HS for a long time may be more likely to get a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma.


Question: How can staying moisturized relieve moderate to severe eczema?

Answer: Petroleum jelly and mineral oil work well. Put it on your skin at least twice a day to keep your eczema at bay. Low humidity can dry your skin. Take lukewarm showers or baths instead. Wet wraps help your skin absorb medicine and moisture.


Question: Does vitamin D ease eczema?

Answer: If your doctor has prescribed an eczema cream, apply that to your skin first. Check to see what supplement you can try for a boost.


Question: Do antihistamines help treat eczema?

Answer: Cetirizine ( Zyrtec) and loratadine ( Claritin) are non-drowsy options that may help you feel better during the day. Stay calm.


Question: How can keeping your house clean relieve moderate to severe eczema?

Answer: Allergens like dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and mold put your immune system on alert, which can wake up your eczema. That's especially helpful when you're working out because you're likely to sweat.


Question: What should I know about high triglyceride levels?

Answer: When your triglyceride levels are too high, you may not have symptoms. If you already know that your triglyceride levels are too high, the actions you take now might even save your life. Having diabetes makes you much more likely to have a heart attack and other heart problems, in addition to the risk from your high triglycerides. To manage it well, you may need to track everything you eat, test your blood sugar, exercise, lose extra weight, take medication as directed, and keep up with your medical appointments. Your doctor should check on whether you do, and if so, help you get both your diabetes and your triglycerides under control.


Question: What do I need to know about alternating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-M)?

Answer: The same goes for constipation. But if you get both of them often, you may have a type of irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS). Specifically, you may have IBS- M, the mixed type. IBS- D (diarrhea) IBS- C (constipation) IBS- M (mixed), also known as IBS- A (alternating) It's called âmixedâ because you go back and forth between diarrhea and constipation, sometimes pretty quickly.


Question: What will your doctor check for to diagnose IBS-M?

Answer: Your doctor may order a few common tests, such as: Basic blood tests, including a complete blood count, to rule out other diseases A blood test for celiac disease (when your body can't digest gluten) If your main symptom is diarrhea, your doctor may test your stool If you have any âred flagâ issues such as weight loss, fever, bleeding, or a family history of digestive diseases (including colon cancer), you may need a colonoscopy. If you have any new symptoms, tell your doctor.


Question: When is colonoscopy used in the diagnosis of mixed irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-M)?

Answer: IBS- D (diarrhea) IBS- C (constipation) IBS- M (mixed), also known as IBS- A (alternating) It's called âmixedâ because you go back and forth between diarrhea and constipation, sometimes pretty quickly. Your doctor may order a few common tests, such as: Basic blood tests, including a complete blood count, to rule out other diseases A blood test for celiac disease (when your body can't digest gluten) If your main symptom is diarrhea, your doctor may test your stool If you have any âred flagâ issues such as weight loss, fever, bleeding, or a family history of digestive diseases (including colon cancer), you may need a colonoscopy. For this test, the doctor looks inside your large intestine using a tool with a tiny camera.


Question: What is IBS-M?

Answer: The same goes for constipation. But if you get both of them often, you may have a type of irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS). Specifically, you may have IBS- M, the mixed type. IBS- D (diarrhea) IBS- C (constipation) IBS- M (mixed), also known as IBS- A (alternating) It's called âmixedâ because you go back and forth between diarrhea and constipation, sometimes pretty quickly.


Question: How can moisturizing your face help prevent acne?

Answer: There are moisturizers made for oily, dry, or combination skin. Use these products with caution if you have sensitive skin. Look for "noncomedogenic" on the sunscreen label to make new pimples less likely.


Question: Do hair products cause acne?

Answer: If they get on your face, they can block your skin's pores and irritate your skin. Use a gentle shampoo and conditioner. Oily hair can add to the oil on your face, so wash your hair often, especially if you're breaking out. Got long hair? Keep it pulled away from your face. Avoid touching your face or propping your cheek or chin on your hands.


Question: Does stress cause acne?

Answer: Look for "noncomedogenic" on the label, which means it should not cause acne. Watch what you put on your hair. Stay out of the sun. Some acne medications may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.


Question: What over-the-counter acne products help prevent acne?

Answer: They may cause drying or peeling so start with a small amount at first. Then you can adjust how much you use and how often. Another option is a new OTC topical retinoid gel ( Differin 0.1% gel). It works to actually keep the acne from forming. Use these products with caution if you have sensitive skin. Read the ingredients list on the product label before buying. Avoid these.


Question: How can keeping your face clean help prevent acne?

Answer: Washing more often than twice daily is not necessarily better; it may do more harm than good. Use warm, not hot, water and a mild facial cleanser. Using a harsh soap (like deodorant body soap) can hurt already inflamed skin and cause more irritation. Oily hair can add to the oil on your face, so wash your hair often, especially if you're breaking out.


Question: What are some alternative therapies for menopause symptoms?

Answer: These are the most effective treatments for hot flashes, and can also help with vaginal dryness and mood problems. If you are unable or do not want to take hormones, there are treatments that your doctor can prescribe to alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause. Talk to your doctor before taking any of these therapies.


Question: What inherited diseases can lead to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?

Answer: You have one of these inherited diseases: Cystic fibrosis Shwachman- Diamond syndrome If you have cystic fibrosis, your body makes unusually thick and sticky mucus. Crohn's disease and celiac disease can also lead to EPI in some people.


Question: What is exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)?

Answer: Your pancreas doesn't make enough of the enzymes that your body needs to break down and absorb nutrients. Damage to your pancreas causes EPI.


Question: How important is a balanced diet in managing exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?

Answer: Apart from a healthy diet, the main treatment for EPI is pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy ( PERT). A dietitian can help you choose the foods that keep your energy level up and give you the nutrition you need. Here are a few tips: Eat six small meals per day. Don't drink. Alcohol can make it even harder for your body to absorb fat, and can damage your pancreas over time. Take vitamins.


Question: What are side effects of medications for spinal stenosis?

Answer: Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the canal in your spinal column that affects mostly people age 50 and older. Spinal stenosis is commonly treated with medication, both over-the-counter and prescription. Too many NSAIDs can cause ulcers and other stomach problems and, especially among older people, may increase the chance of heart attacks and strokes. They might also interact with other medicines. Always check with your doctor before taking any medications, even those that don't need a prescription.


Question: How might surgery help treat spinal stenosis?

Answer: Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the canal in your spinal column that affects mostly people age 50 and older. Some also use traction, which involves pulling bones further apart to make more room for the nerves. If these treatments don't work, your doctor may suggest surgery, especially if: You're in a lot of pain You have trouble walking You can't control your bladder In fact, your doctor may recommend surgery first if you have severe symptoms.


Question: When should you call 911 about frostbite?

Answer: The person shows signs of hypothermia. Do not rub or massage the skin or break blisters.


Question: What is the link between digestive problems and psoriasis?

Answer: Right now, there isn't anything you can change about your lifestyle to specifically keep you from getting one of these digestive problems that's written into your genes. Research into the complex relationship is ongoing, and there's a lot more still to be learned. Some people get a digestive disorder first and psoriasis later. About 4 of every 100 have it.


Question: How can pneumothorax cause chest pain?

Answer: This can cause pain known as angina. This common problem occurs when the top of the stomach pushes into the lower chest after eating.


Question: How can esophageal hypersensitivity cause chest pain?

Answer: Heart pain and heartburn from acid reflux feel similar partly because the heart and esophagus are located close to each other and share a nerve network. This occurs when the esophagus becomes very painful at the smallest change in pressure or exposure to acid. The cause of this sensitivity is unknown.


Question: How can rib problems cause chest pain?

Answer: Sometimes chest pain may result from overuse or an injury to the chest area from a fall or accident. Pain from a rib fracture may worsen with deep breathing or coughing. It is often confined to one area and may feel sore when you press on it. The area where the ribs join the breastbone may also become inflamed.


Question: As Iâm being treated for cancer, how can I get support for everyday tasks?

Answer: Let people help. If someone says, " What can I do?" have an answer for them. Let people pitch in with everyday chores like cooking, cleaning, and running errands. Ask a friend to write down important questions, and make sure you ask them. Let someone help keep track of your insurance and appointments. They'll probably be happy if you reach out with a quick call or message saying you'd love a certain snack or could use help with a task like walking the dog or doing the laundry.


Question: How can joining a support group help me and my family deal with cancer?

Answer: This can help you manage your feelings by letting you talk and share with people who feel the same way. Members often talk about which treatments worked for them and how they faced challenges. When you talk to other people, you feel like part of a community. Some are just for people who have cancer. Others include your main caregiver, often a spouse or other close family member. Family members or children may find one just for them. Remember that your friends and family members may not know what you need or even what you want to talk about.


Question: Are herbs used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Herbs are also popular options for people with IBS. Peppermint is used to calm muscles in the colon, which may cause some of the diarrhea and abdominal discomfort suffered by people with IBS. The Mayo Clinic advises anyone who'd like to try it to get the enteric-coated capsules, and to be aware that it may make heartburn worse. Registered herbalists never use peppermint on its own, nor do they recommend it for an extended period of time, says Jonathan Gilbert, who has a diploma in herbology and acupuncture from the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine ( NCCAOM). If you are interested in herbal therapy, dietary supplements, acupuncture, or any other treatment for your IBS, make sure you talk with your doctor. Herbs may interact with other medications you may be taking.


Question: What factors should you consider before getting a laser treatment to remove your tattoo?

Answer: In either case, to completely get rid of a tattoo, it will take several treatments. However, you should consider these factors in your decision: Your tattoo removal site is at risk for infection. You may end up with hypopigmentation, which means the skin that is treated is paler than the skin surrounding it. You could also have hyperpigmentation, which leaves the affected skin darker than the rest of your skin. Cosmetic tattoos like lip liner, eyeliner, and eyebrows may actually get darker after treatment. They do tend to fade with additional sessions.


Question: What is laparoscopic proctosigmoidectomy?

Answer: Doctors use it to treat the following conditions: Cancers of the colon and rectum Some types of noncancerous growths in the colon and rectum Complicated diverticulitis The term "laparoscopic" refers to a type of surgery called laparoscopy, in which the surgeon works through very small (5-millimeter to 10-millimeter) "keyhole" cuts in the abdomen. Your surgeon will need to cut away the diseased section of your sigmoid colon and rectum.


Question: What causes hearing loss?

Answer: Noise: A lot of loud sound over time can damage the hair cells in your ears. Here are eight tips to help keep your ears as sharp as possible.


Question: How can checking your medications help prevent hearing loss?

Answer: A buildup of wax in your ears can muffle sound. If you must take a medication that may harm your ears, make sure your doctor checks your hearing and balance before and during your treatment.


Question: How can limiting the sounds in your life help you prevent hearing loss?

Answer: Many adults eventually realize they're pressing the âvolume upâ button on the TV remote more often, or that a lot of people around them need to speak up. If you have to shout over the noise around you, it's loud enough to damage your hearing. Noise-induced hearing loss is a result of the loudness of sounds and how long you hear them.


Question: How much fiber should I eat if I have irritable bowel syndrome with constipation (IBS-C)?

Answer: Too little roughage in your diet can make it hard to have a bowel movement. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends 25 grams of fiber for women and 38 grams for men each day. People over age 50 may need a little less fiber (21 grams for women and 30 grams for men). You can get fiber in foods such as: Whole-grain bread and cereals Fruits Vegetables Beans Although meeting your daily fiber needs is best accomplished by eating the right foods, taking a fiber supplement can also help. Your body will need time to get used to it, so add a little each day. But coffee, carbonated drinks, and alcohol can dehydrate you and make your IBS- C symptoms worse.


Question: What are the risks of taking xylitol?

Answer: Xylitol is mostly safe, especially if taken in amounts found in food. The FDA has approved xylitol as a food additive or sweetener. If you take large amounts of xylitol, such as 30 to 40 grams, you may experience diarrhea or gas. There is not enough information to confirm xylitol's safety in pregnant and breastfeeding women, so they should not use it for medicinal purposes. Although some animal studies have shown tumor growth resulting from high doses of xylitol over long periods, more research is needed.


Question: What is xylitol used for?

Answer: People with diabetes sometimes use xylitol as a sugar substitute. Blood sugar levels stay at a more constant level with xylitol than with regular sugar. Some types of gum or oral care products, such as toothpaste and mouthwash, also contain xylitol. Mouth bacteria can't use xylitol as a source of energy, so it may help prevent tooth decay and the buildup of plaque. Researchers have studied the use of xylitol to prevent sudden attacks of middle ear inflammation (otitis media) in children with frequent earaches. More studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness for this and other uses.


Question: What are the risks of colposcopy?

Answer: A colposcopy is a simple procedure that lets your doctor get a good look at your cervix. Your doctor may apply a liquid bandage to your cervix after the procedure to stop any bleeding. If she does, you might have brown or black vaginal discharge. It may even look like coffee grounds. Don't worryâit should clear up in a few days.


Question: What are tips for treating acne?

Answer: To reduce acne and its damage to your skin, follow these tips. Choose a cleanser specially formulated for acne. Clean your face gently, as trauma to the acne breakouts may worsen the acne or cause scarring. If you need to use a moisturizer, use only light, non-comedogenic moisturizers, which do not aggravate acne. There are oil-free moisturizers on the market that contain anti-bacterial agents for acne-prone skin. Picking can result in further inflammation and possible scarring.


Question: How is sudden cardiac arrest different from a heart attack?

Answer: Sudden cardiac arrest is not a heart attack (myocardial infarction) but can occur during a heart attack. Heart attacks occur when there is a blockage in one or more of the arteries to the heart, preventing the heart from receiving enough oxygen-rich blood. The heart beats dangerously fast. In the first few minutes, the greatest concern is that blood flow to the brain will be reduced so drastically that a person will lose consciousness. Death follows unless emergency treatment is begun immediately.


Question: What is sudden cardiac death?

Answer: Sudden cardiac death ( SCD) is a sudden, unexpected death caused by a change in heart rhythm (sudden cardiac arrest). It is the largest cause of natural death in the U. S., causing about 325,000 adult deaths in the U. S. each year. Most sudden cardiac deaths are caused by abnormal heart rhythms called arrhythmias. The most common life-threatening arrhythmia is ventricular fibrillation, which is an erratic, disorganized firing of impulses from the ventricles (the heart's lower chambers). When this occurs, the heart is unable to pump blood and death will occur within minutes, if left untreated.


Question: Can you survive sudden cardiac arrest?

Answer: Survival can be as high as 90% if treatment is initiated within the first minutes after sudden cardiac arrest. The rate decreases by about 10% each minute longer it takes to initiate therapy. It is CPR plus defibrillation that saves a person.


Question: Can an ICD prevent sudden cardiac death?

Answer: Implantable cardioverter-defibrillator ( ICD): For people whose risk factors put them at great risk for sudden cardiac death, an ICD may be inserted as a preventive treatment. An ICD is a small machine similar to a pacemaker that is designed to correct arrhythmias. The ICD may be used in patients who have survived sudden cardiac arrest and need their heart rhythms constantly monitored. It may also be combined with a pacemaker to treat other underlying irregular heart rhythms.


Question: What are checkpoint inhibitors for cancer?

Answer: This is designed to boost your key immune cells. These drugs help your immune system see the cancer as a problem, and fight it. Some monoclonal antibodies can have chemotherapy drugs or radioactive substances attached to them and can help stop the growth of cancer cells.


Question: What are monoclonal antibodies and how are they used in immunotherapy for cancer?

Answer: Monoclonal antibodies are molecules made in a laboratory. They attach to cancer cells. Then, like a beacon, they make those cells more visible to your immune system, so it can fight them better. Some monoclonal antibodies can have chemotherapy drugs or radioactive substances attached to them and can help stop the growth of cancer cells.


Question: What are the side effects associated with taking beta-blockers for heart failure?

Answer: Dizziness or lightheadedness: This may be strongest when you get out of bed or get up from a chair. Get up more slowly. Call your doctor or nurse if these symptoms don't go away or are severe. Tiredness, cold hands and feet, headache , nightmares , trouble sleeping, heartburn , diarrhea or constipation , or gas. Weight gain is common as your doctor increases your medication dose. Call your doctor if you gain 3 or more pounds in 1 day, or if you continue to gain weight for more than 2 days. Increased shortness of breath; wheezing ; trouble breathing; skin rash ; slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat ; swelling of feet and lower legs; chest pain . If you have these, you may become dehydrated, which can lead to low blood pressure. Call your doctor or nurse. Also call your doctor or nurse if you have any other symptoms that cause concern.


Question: What are side effects of beta-blockers?

Answer: Dizziness or lightheadedness: This may be strongest when you get out of bed or get up from a chair. Weight gain is common as your doctor increases your medication dose. Increased shortness of breath; wheezing ; trouble breathing; skin rash ; slow, fast, or irregular heartbeat ; swelling of feet and lower legs; chest pain . Severe vomiting or diarrhea . Also call your doctor or nurse if you have any other symptoms that cause concern.


Question: Should you avoid taking certain drugs while taking beta-blockers?

Answer: Call your doctor or nurse. You may need to change the times you take each drug. It's important that your doctor be aware of all the medications you are taking, as some may interact with beta-blockers. Talk to your doctor before taking any new drug, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and supplements.


Question: How can I make sure the hospital gives me the right medicines?

Answer: Make sure the medicine is for you. Another way to avoid a serious hospital medication error is to ask your nurse to compare your ID with the name on the prescription before you get it. Ask your family to help out. Since you might be drowsy and forgetful after surgery, it's great to have a family member or friend who's keeping track of your medication for you.


Question: How should I keep a list of my medications?

Answer: Bring in your medications. A written list with the names and dosing of your medication is also useful. Keep notes.


Question: What questions should I ask a nurse in the hospital when he or she gives me medication?

Answer: One easy way to do this is to bring in all of your medications in a bag to show them. How much do you need? How often do you need it? Asking questions is a key way of lowering the risk of errors. Another way to avoid a serious hospital medication error is to ask your nurse to compare your ID with the name on the prescription before you get it.


Question: What might be included in an annual physical exam for a woman?

Answer: An annual physical exam for men might also include: Testicular exam: A doctor can check each testicle for lumps, tenderness, or changes in size. Feeling for abnormal lumps may detect breast cancer or benign breast conditions. The doctor will also check the lymph nodes in the underarm area and look for visual abnormalities of the breasts and nipples. Pelvic exam: The pelvic exam allows examination of the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus and ovaries. Routine checks for sexually transmitted infections are often done. A Pap test and HPV test can screen for cervical cancer and help assess risk.


Question: What are some guidelines for taking medications that treat bipolar disorder?

Answer: Drugs called antipsychotic medications are also common in bipolar treatment plans. Don't stop taking a medicine without your doctor's approval. It can be dangerous. When you're feeling good, you might decide that you want to stop taking your medication. Treatment only during mood episodes may not be enough to prevent symptoms from coming back. In most people, maintenance treatment between mood episodes makes mania and depression happen less often and makes them less severe. If you're feeling good now, that's likely because your medication is working.


Question: What is the role of medications for bipolar disorder?

Answer: Bipolar distorts your view of yourself and the world, but the medicine can help you to see things clearly again. Medications are an essential part of a treatment plan. They won't cure you, but they will help you keep your moods in balance so you can do the things you need and want to do. If you have bipolar disorder, taking your medication should be part of your routine.


Question: Will medications for bipolar disorder work for me?

Answer: Work with your doctor to decide on the medication plan that helps you the most. You may need to try several different kinds and different doses to figure out the right approach. It can be frustrating, but don't give up. Eventually, you and your doctor should be able to find a prescription that works for you.


Question: What is astigmatism?

Answer: Glasses can usually improve it. Amblyopia, also know as "lazy eye," occurs when vision in one eye is reduced.


Question: Are all visual impairments due to problems within the eye?

Answer: Some have nothing to do with the eye itself, but are the result of a problem in the way the brain processes information. He or she can refer you to an eye doctor if needed: Redness or swelling in the eye Lots of tearing or blinking Poor eye alignment Frequent rubbing of one or both eyes Frequent closing or covering of one eye Extreme sensitivity to light Trouble tracking an object in range of vision Tilting the head when trying to focus Eyes that appear asymmetric or that show white reflection in photos These are other possible symptoms of vision problems you may notice in an older child: Trouble seeing the blackboard at school (check with your child or child's teacher) Sitting very close to the television Leaning close to books while reading or doing homework Dizziness Headaches or nausea Visually impaired children can have learning problems that range from mild to severe.


Question: When does visual impairment in children require specialized education?

Answer: You will need to ensure that your child gets the support she needs to learn and flourish. If your child's visual impairment is severe, he or she may need help from other specialists to develop life skills. Rehabilitation specialists can help find the resources that will be most helpful, given your child's condition. If your child's visual impairment is severe, you'll need extra support.


Question: Can vision problems cause learning problems?

Answer: There are many types of visual impairments, and they can range in degree from mild to severe. Their educational needs and options will depend on the nature of their disability.


Question: What do I do if my child is visually impaired?

Answer: If your child's visual impairment is serious, give yourself time to adjust. You will be your child's best advocate in the years to come. There are many types of visual impairments, and they can range in degree from mild to severe. If your child's visual impairment is severe, you'll need extra support. Learn all you can about your child's disability and the options for treatment and education.


Question: How can I maintain relationships if I have a severely visually impaired child?

Answer: Learn all you can about your child's disability and the options for treatment and education. Nurture your relationship by having frequent dates and private time together. Don't forget your other children, too.


Question: What is strabismus?

Answer: Strabismus occurs when the eyes are out of alignment. If detected early, temporarily patching the normal eye may resolve the problem by forcing the brain to use the affected eye. If your child's visual impairment is severe, you'll need extra support.


Question: How long do sperm live outside the body?

Answer: The answer depends on a number of things, but the most important is where the sperm are located. When sperm are inside a woman's body, they can live for up to 5 days. Also called sperm density, this is the number of sperm in millions per milliliter of semen. This is the percentage of sperm in a sample that are moving, as well as an assessment of how they move.


Question: What's the treatment for brain cancer?

Answer: Treatment of brain cancer is usually complex. The treatment protocols vary widely according to the location of the tumor, its size and type, your age, and any additional medical problems that you may have. The most widely used treatments are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. In most cases, more than one of these is used.


Question: Is brain tumor treatment the same for everyone?

Answer: You and your loved ones will have many questions about brain cancer, the treatment, side effects, and the long-term outlook. Your health care team is the best source of this information. Don't hesitate to ask. The treatment protocols vary widely according to the location of the tumor, its size and type, your age, and any additional medical problems that you may have.


Question: How does radiation therapy help in treating brain cancer?

Answer: Radiation therapy may be used for people who cannot undergo surgery. In other cases, it is used after surgery to kill any tumor cells that may remain. Radiation therapy is a local therapy. It typically does not harm cells elsewhere in the body or even elsewhere in the brain. Chemotherapy is the use of powerful drugs to kill tumor cells.


Question: What are the natural treatments for osteopenia?

Answer: In some cases, especially if you've already broken a bone, your doctor may prescribe medicine to lower your chances for osteoporosis and to prevent more fractures. But many people try a number of nutritional supplements and herbs before they have a fracture to build stronger bones. The main ones are calcium and vitamin D supplements.


Question: What medications treat osteopenia?

Answer: In some cases, especially if you've already broken a bone, your doctor may prescribe medicine to lower your chances for osteoporosis and to prevent more fractures. Teriparatide ( Forteo ) is a drug that acts like a hormone made by your parathyroid glands.


Question: Can supplements treat osteopenia?

Answer: Talk to your doctor to see if you should consider this therapy. If you aren't getting enough of these nutrients in your diet and don't spend much time in the sun, ask your doctor if you should take a supplement. Other nutritional supplements may help strengthen bones, but so far, there's little research showing how well they work.


Question: How do you get black hairy tongue?

Answer: Black hairy tongue is caused by bacteria or fungi in the mouth, which make the tongue appear black and hairy. They include: poor oral hygiene smoking tobacco drinking a lot of coffee or tea using antibiotics (which may disrupt the normal balance of bacteria in the mouth) being dehydrated taking medications that contain the chemical bismuth (such as Pepto- Bismol for upset stomach) not producing enough saliva regularly using mouthwash that contains peroxide, witch hazel, or menthol getting radiation therapy to the head and neck Black hairy tongue is more common in men, people who use intravenous drugs, and those who are HIV-positive.


Question: How does black hairy tongue happen?

Answer: Black hairy tongue is caused by bacteria or fungi in the mouth, which make the tongue appear black and hairy. The bacteria build up on tiny rounded projections called papillae. These lie along the surface of the tongue. Instead of shedding as they normally do, the papillae start to grow and lengthen, creating hair-like projections. They can grow to 15 times their normal length.


Question: What can you do to prevent heartburn?

Answer: To make symptoms easier: Don't go to bed with a full stomach. Eat meals at least 2 to 3 hours before lying down. Eat smaller portions at mealtimes, or try to eat four to five small meals instead of three big ones. Avoid heartburn triggers. For example: Onions Peppermint Chocolate Beverages with caffeine Citrus fruits or juices Tomatoes High-fat and spicy foods A heartburn diary is a good way for you to figure out which foods cause your symptoms. Shed some pounds. Avoid alcohol. Wearing loose-fitting clothes can also help. You'll put your head at an angle that can put more pressure on your stomach and make your heartburn worse. Time your meals.


Question: What are some strengthening exercises I might do in a physical therapy session?

Answer: Your physical therapist may prescribe exercises for you to do at home. But because you'll use parts of your body that are injured or have chronic pain, physical therapy can be challenging, even hard.


Question: How does physical therapy treat pain?

Answer: Physical therapists have a lot of training. Yours will look for areas of weakness or stiffness that may be adding stress to the places that hurt.


Question: How is TENS and ultrasound used in a physical therapy session?

Answer: Yours will look for areas of weakness or stiffness that may be adding stress to the places that hurt. Pain relief exercises.


Question: Will physical therapy hurt?

Answer: Physical therapists have a lot of training. Physical therapy shouldn't hurt, and it will be safe. But because you'll use parts of your body that are injured or have chronic pain, physical therapy can be challenging, even hard. For example, you may feel sore after stretching or deep tissue massage. It will push you, but it shouldn't be too much. Each person may respond differently to therapy. Your body type, daily activities, alignment, and habits all affect your plan. Stick with it, and you'll get the benefits.


Question: Should you take opioid pain medications?

Answer: If you need to take opioids to control your pain, here are some ways to make sure you're taking them as safely as possible. They are used to treat moderate to severe pain that may not respond well to other pain medications.


Question: How can you work with your doctor to receive opioid (narcotic) pain medications?

Answer: If you need to take opioids to control your pain, here are some ways to make sure you're taking them as safely as possible. You may receive around-the-clock doses to manage pain throughout the day and night. And your doctor may prescribe opioids to be taken "as needed" in case you have "breakthrough" pain -- a flare of pain that you get despite round-the-clock doses.


Question: What will your doctor need to know while you're on opioid (narcotic) pain medications?

Answer: They tell your brain you're not in pain. Your doctor will need to know: How your pain is responding to the drug Whether you're having any side effects Whether you have any potential interactions or medical conditions that could make you more likely to have side effects, such as sleep apnea, alcohol use, or kidney problems Whether you're taking the drug properly Never change or stop taking any opioid medicine without first checking with your doctor.


Question: What is opioid tolerance and addiction?

Answer: That includes: Prescription drugs Over-the-counter drugs Herbal supplements After taking opioid pain medication for a while, you might find that you need more and more of the drug to achieve the same effect in easing pain. This is called tolerance. It's not the same as addiction, which involves a compulsive use of a drug. People who are addicted compulsively seek out the pain medications. Their behavior usually leads to negative consequences in their personal lives or workplace.


Question: What is canal dehiscence syndrome?

Answer: This disorder, also called superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome ( SSCD), affects your balance and hearing. " Dehiscence" is another word for hole. If you have SSCD, you have a hole or a very thin place in the bone in your ear that helps your body balance itself. It also can cause problems with the way sound comes into your ear. People usually discover they have it in their 40s.


Question: What are treatments for canal dehiscence syndrome?

Answer: This disorder, also called superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome ( SSCD), affects your balance and hearing. " If you have SSCD, you have a hole or a very thin place in the bone in your ear that helps your body balance itself. If your symptoms are minor, you may be able to simply avoid triggers, such as loud noises or altitude changes. If you have hearing loss as a result of your SSCD, your doctor may suggest hearing aids. If some symptoms are severe - like oscillopsia, balance issues, or autophony -- your doctor may suggest surgery. The most common surgery used to treat SSCD is called middle cranial fossa approach. A doctor takes some of your tissue or a small piece of bone from your skull and plugs the hole.


Question: What are symptoms of canal dehiscence syndrome?

Answer: This disorder, also called superior semicircular canal dehiscence syndrome ( SSCD), affects your balance and hearing. " When you have SSCD, you might have one or more of the following: Echoes of sounds in your ear, like when you eat or talk (called autophony) Fullness in your ears Hearing loss Internal noises, like your heartbeat, that are louder than normal Quick side to side or up and down movements of your eyes (called nystagmus) Ringing in your ears Sound of your pulse in your ears Unsteadiness Vertigo or dizziness These symptoms can be triggered when you: Cough or sneeze Feel pressure changes Hear loud sounds Lift heavy objects Strain SSCD also can cause a condition that makes your brain think objects are moving when they're actually sitting still.


Question: How should you clean the wound for cuts on children?

Answer: Your child is bleeding heavily. Clean the area around the wound with mild soap and water.


Question: How deos endscopic  ultrasound help diagnose EPI?

Answer: In a hospital, doctors will put a thin tube in your mouth, down through your stomach, and into the first part of your small intestine. At the tip is an ultrasound probe that gives off sound waves. They help make a picture of the inside of your body, which doctors can see on a screen. You might be asleep or awake for the test, but you'll get medicine to make you more comfortable. The test usually takes 20 to 45 minutes, and you won't need to stay in the hospital overnight. During this test, your doctor can also take a small piece of your tissue to study under a microscope -- if he needs one. You won't have to stay overnight in the hospital.


Question: What is a 3-day fecal test?

Answer: The lab will also test your blood for vitamin B12, iron, and folate. You'll give your doctor a solid stool sample.


Question: How can MRI and MRCP help diagnose EPI?

Answer: You'll lie on a padded table that slides you up so the machine is over your upper tummy. MRI and MRCP. You'll be awake for it, but if you get anxious in small, tight spaces, the doctor might give you a drug to help you relax. You won't have to stay overnight in the hospital. An MRCP is a special kind of MRI that focuses on your bile ducts and ducts in your pancreas. The MRI takes about 35 minutes. The MRCP takes about 10 minutes.


Question: Does gender affect who contracts primary progressive multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Researchers don't know why it happens, but here's what scientists understand about this type: For people with primary progressive MS, there are no attacks followed by later improvement, as in the more common forms of MS. They found: Under age 30, equal numbers of men and women had the condition. In terms of all types of MS, at least twice as many women as men have the condition.


Question: What are the gender differences in the people who contract primary progressive multiple sclerosis?

Answer: In the largest studies done so far, scientists kept tabs on hundreds of men and women with primary progressive MS for decades. They found: Under age 30, equal numbers of men and women had the condition. There were more women than men who got it after age 45. Almost two women for each man were diagnosed with primary progressive MS after age 50 -- still short of the rates in other forms of MS. Why the differences?


Question: What are the gender differences in primary progressive multiple sclerosis?

Answer: In the largest studies done so far, scientists kept tabs on hundreds of men and women with primary progressive MS for decades. They found: Under age 30, equal numbers of men and women had the condition. There were more women than men who got it after age 45. Almost two women for each man were diagnosed with primary progressive MS after age 50 -- still short of the rates in other forms of MS. Why the differences?


Question: What are some precautions about using holy basil?

Answer: Holy basil has a history of use for treating many diseases and conditions however, quality scientific research is needed to show how holy basil may benefit people is needed: The common cold Bronchitis Earache Fever Flu Some evidence of improvement of energy It's also been used to try to treat a range of other health concerns, including: Increased blood circulation Insect bites Kidney problems Skin problems Snake bites Stomach problems In addition, holy basil may be useful: As an antioxidant For protecting the liver For treating lowering blood sugar; in one study, people with diabetes had lower blood sugar while they were taking holy basil. Avoid using holy basil if you're allergic or sensitive to it or members of the Lamiaceae (mint) plant family. Side effects of holy basil also include upset stomach. You should be cautious about using holy basil if you: Have low blood sugar Are trying to get pregnant Take anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs Women who are pregnant should avoid holy basil, since it might cause the uterus to contract.


Question: Why do people take holy basil?

Answer: Holy basil has a history of use for treating many diseases and conditions however, quality scientific research is needed to show how holy basil may benefit people is needed: The common cold Bronchitis Earache Fever Flu Some evidence of improvement of energy It's also been used to try to treat a range of other health concerns, including: Increased blood circulation Insect bites Kidney problems Skin problems Snake bites Stomach problems In addition, holy basil may be useful: As an antioxidant For protecting the liver For treating lowering blood sugar; in one study, people with diabetes had lower blood sugar while they were taking holy basil. Research on animals suggests that holy basil might change the effect of many medications, including these drugs: Diazepam ( Valium) Pentobarbital ( Nembutal) Scopolamine (sold as generic only) Tell your doctor about any supplements you're taking, even if they're natural.


Question: What is psychotic depression?

Answer: The psychosis could be hallucinations (such as hearing a voice telling you that you are no good or worthless), delusions (such as, intense feelings of worthlessness, failure, or having committed a sin) or some other break with reality. Psychotic depression affects roughly one out of every four people admitted to the hospital for depression. Also, having one episode of psychotic depression increases the chance of bipolar disorder with recurring episodes of psychotic depression, mania, and even suicide.


Question: Does treatment for psychotic depression always work?

Answer: Its treatment is different than for nonpsychotic depression. People are able to recover, usually within several months. But continual medical follow-up may be necessary. If the medications do not work to end the psychosis and depression, sometimes electroconvulsive therapy ( ECT) is used. It's important for the patient to work with the doctor to find the most effective drugs with the least side effects. Because psychotic depression is quite serious, the risk of suicide is also great.


Question: What are symptoms of scarlet fever?

Answer: The namesake red rash usually starts out looking like a bad sunburn. When the rash goes away, the skin may peel around the fingertips, toes, and groin. There may be a pale, white area just around your mouth. " Strawberry" tongue. Other signs of scarlet fever can include: Very red sore throat Fever of 101 F or higher, sometimes with chills Swollen glands in the neck Whitish coating on the tonsils and throat Headache or body aches Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain Difficulty swallowing Because scarlet fever symptoms can be similar to other conditions, always check with your doctor or pediatrician.


Question: What does scarlet fever rash look like?

Answer: The namesake red rash usually starts out looking like a bad sunburn. It typically starts on your neck and face and then spreads to the chest, the back, and the rest of the body. It's raised and looks a little like sandpaper. It can be itchy, and areas of the rash can turn white when you press on them. When the rash goes away, the skin may peel around the fingertips, toes, and groin. In the folds of skin where creases form, the rash forms red lines.


Question: When should you call your doctor about swimmer's ear?

Answer: You may notice things like: Itchy feeling inside your ear Pain in the ear, which can be severe Your ear hurts when you move your head or gently pull on your earlobe Tender inside your ear Fluid drains out of the ear A bad-smelling, yellowish discharge from the ear You don't hear as well (things sound muffled) Always check with your doctor if you see any signs of an ear infection. Also, call him if you feel dizzy or have ringing in your ears, which means you may have a more serious problem that needs to get checked out by a doctor. Also call your doctor if you have: Severe pain. You may have seborrheic dermatitis or herpes zoster (shingles).


Question: When should someone call their doctor about swimmer's ear?

Answer: You may notice things like: Itchy feeling inside your ear Pain in the ear, which can be severe Your ear hurts when you move your head or gently pull on your earlobe Tender inside your ear Fluid drains out of the ear A bad-smelling, yellowish discharge from the ear You don't hear as well (things sound muffled) Always check with your doctor if you see any signs of an ear infection. Also, call him if you feel dizzy or have ringing in your ears, which means you may have a more serious problem that needs to get checked out by a doctor. Also call your doctor if you have: Severe pain. You may have seborrheic dermatitis or herpes zoster (shingles).


Question: What are baby talk milestones?

Answer: Before babies learn to talk in a real language -- English, say, or Spanish -- they babble and coo, playing with sound. At 3 months, your baby listens to your voice, watches your face as you talk, and turns toward other voices, sounds, and music that can be heard around the home. By the end of three months, babies begin "cooing" -- a happy, gentle, repetitive, sing-song vocalization. Baby talk at 6 months. For example, your baby may say "ba-ba" or "da-da." By the end of the sixth or seventh month, babies respond to their own names, recognize their native language, and use their tone of voice to tell you they're happy or upset. After 9 months, babies can understand a few basic words like "no" and "bye-bye." Most babies say a few simple words like "mama" and "dadda" by the end of 12 months -- and now know what they're saying. They respond to -- or at least understand, if not obey -- your short, one-step requests such as, " Please put that down." Baby talk at 18 months. They repeat words or sounds they hear you say, like the last word in a sentence. By age 2, babies string together a few words in short phrases of two to four words, such as " Mommy bye-bye" or "me milk." They're learning that words mean more than objects like "cup" -- they also mean abstract ideas like "mine." By the time your baby is age 3, his or her vocabulary expands rapidly, and "make-believe" play spurs an understanding of symbolic and abstract language like "now," feelings like "sad," and spatial concepts like "in."


Question: What is the meaning of baby talk?

Answer: Before babies learn to talk in a real language -- English, say, or Spanish -- they babble and coo, playing with sound. That's baby talk, and baby talk sounds similar the world over. Critical milestones for a baby learning to talk happen in the first three years of life, when a baby's brain is rapidly developing. During that time, your baby's speech development depends on your "baby talk" skills as well as your baby's.


Question: What can I do to help my baby talk?

Answer: By the end of the sixth or seventh month, babies respond to their own names, recognize their native language, and use their tone of voice to tell you they're happy or upset. Babies understand what you're saying long before they can clearly speak. You can help your baby learn to talk if you: Watch. Smile and applaud even the smallest or most confusing attempts at baby talk. Babies learn the power of speech by the reactions of adults around them. Talk about what you're doing as you wash, dress, feed, and change your baby -- " Let's put on these blue socks now" or " I'm cutting up your chicken for you" -- so your baby connects your speech to these objects and experiences. Encourage children to play, pretend, and imagine out loud to develop verbal skills as they become toddlers. Read aloud. Encourage your baby's first words with your frequent cooing, babbling, talking, and singing.


Question: How can cognitive behavioral therapy help with psychosis?

Answer: It also helps you figure out whether what you see and hear is real or imagined. This kind of therapy also stresses the importance of antipsychotic medications and sticking with your treatment. Cognitive enhancement therapy ( CET) uses computer exercises and group work to help you think and understand better.


Question: Do you need to get treated in a hospital if you have psychosis?

Answer: You or your family members may notice: A drop in grades or job performance Trouble thinking clearly or concentrating Suspiciousness or unease around others Lack of self-care or hygiene Spending more time alone than usual Stronger emotions than situations call for No emotions at all Signs of early psychosis: You may: Hear, see, or taste things others don't Hang on to unusual beliefs or thoughts no matter what others say Pull away from family and friends Stop taking care of yourself Not be able to think clearly or pay attention Symptoms of a psychotic episode: Usually you'll notice all of the above plus: Hallucinations: Auditory hallucinations: Hearing voices when no one is around Tactile hallucinations: Strange sensations or feelings you can't explain Visual hallucinations: You see people or things that aren't there, or you think the shape of things looks wrong Delusions: Beliefs that aren't in line with your culture and that don't make sense to others, like: Outside forces are in control of your feelings and actions Small events or comments have huge meaning You have special powers, are on a special mission, or actually are a god Doctors don't know exactly what causes psychosis, but some known risk factors include: Genetics: You can have the genes for it, but that doesn't always mean you'll get psychosis. The doctor will check your symptoms, look for causes, and suggest the best treatment for you. Some clinics and programs offer help just for young people.


Question: What does it mean if you have psychosis?

Answer: You might see, hear, or believe things that aren't real. Psychosis is a symptom, not an illness. A mental or physical illness, substance abuse, or extreme stress or trauma can cause it. Psychotic disorders, like schizophrenia, involve psychosis that usually affects you for the first time in the late teen years or early adulthood. Young people are especially likely to get it, but doctors don't know why. Even before what doctors call the first episode of psychosis ( FEP), you may show slight changes in the way you act or think. This is called the prodromal period and could last days, weeks, months, or even years. You or your family members may notice: A drop in grades or job performance Trouble thinking clearly or concentrating Suspiciousness or unease around others Lack of self-care or hygiene Spending more time alone than usual Stronger emotions than situations call for No emotions at all Signs of early psychosis: You may: Hear, see, or taste things others don't Hang on to unusual beliefs or thoughts no matter what others say Pull away from family and friends Stop taking care of yourself Not be able to think clearly or pay attention Symptoms of a psychotic episode: Usually you'll notice all of the above plus: Hallucinations: Auditory hallucinations: Hearing voices when no one is around Tactile hallucinations: Strange sensations or feelings you can't explain Visual hallucinations: You see people or things that aren't there, or you think the shape of things looks wrong Delusions: Beliefs that aren't in line with your culture and that don't make sense to others, like: Outside forces are in control of your feelings and actions Small events or comments have huge meaning You have special powers, are on a special mission, or actually are a god Doctors don't know exactly what causes psychosis, but some known risk factors include: Genetics: You can have the genes for it, but that doesn't always mean you'll get psychosis. You doctor may recommend coordinated specialty care ( CSC).


Question: What causes psychosis?

Answer: Psychosis is a symptom, not an illness. You or your family members may notice: A drop in grades or job performance Trouble thinking clearly or concentrating Suspiciousness or unease around others Lack of self-care or hygiene Spending more time alone than usual Stronger emotions than situations call for No emotions at all Signs of early psychosis: You may: Hear, see, or taste things others don't Hang on to unusual beliefs or thoughts no matter what others say Pull away from family and friends Stop taking care of yourself Not be able to think clearly or pay attention Symptoms of a psychotic episode: Usually you'll notice all of the above plus: Hallucinations: Auditory hallucinations: Hearing voices when no one is around Tactile hallucinations: Strange sensations or feelings you can't explain Visual hallucinations: You see people or things that aren't there, or you think the shape of things looks wrong Delusions: Beliefs that aren't in line with your culture and that don't make sense to others, like: Outside forces are in control of your feelings and actions Small events or comments have huge meaning You have special powers, are on a special mission, or actually are a god Doctors don't know exactly what causes psychosis, but some known risk factors include: Genetics: You can have the genes for it, but that doesn't always mean you'll get psychosis. Drugs: Triggers include some prescription medications and abuse of alcohol or drugs like marijuana, LSD, and amphetamines. Trauma: The death of a loved one, a sexual assault, or war can lead to psychosis.


Question: How can family psychoeducation and support help with psychosis?

Answer: It combines medicine and therapy with social services and work and education support. It helps you bond and improves the way you solve problems together.


Question: What is the treatment for psychosis?

Answer: Even before what doctors call the first episode of psychosis ( FEP), you may show slight changes in the way you act or think. That will help keep the symptoms from affecting your relationships, work, or school. It may also help you avoid more problems down the road. You doctor may recommend coordinated specialty care ( CSC). This is a team approach to treating schizophrenia when the first symptoms appear. It combines medicine and therapy with social services and work and education support. The family is involved as much as possible. What your doctor recommends will depend on the cause of your psychosis. Your doctor will prescribe antipsychotic drugs -- in pills, liquids, or shots -- to ease your symptoms. They'll also suggest you avoid using drugs and alcohol.


Question: What are symptoms of hepatitis A?

Answer: The best way to cut your risk of getting sick is to wash your hands: Before you eat After you use the bathroom or handle a dirty diaper You can get the first symptoms anytime between 15 and 50 days after you came in contact with the virus. Most people with hepatitis A usually have sudden: Extreme tiredness Loss of appetite Muscle aches and pains Nausea and vomiting Low-grade fever Several days later, some symptoms of liver problems can show up. It's possible you might not have any symptoms. Most children under age 6 with hep A don't have any.


Question: How do you treat vitreomacular adhesion (VMA)?

Answer: But if you've noticed changes to your vision, you should see your eye doctor. First, she'll dilate your pupil and look inside your eye. You'll also get a test called optical coherence tomography ( OCT). That shows the back of your eye. She needs to do that to be sure you have VMA and to see if you have any damage inside your eye that needs treatment. OCT can show the jelly inside your eye, called the vitreous. It sticks to your retina if you have VMA. Your test can also show damage to something called your macula. That's the part of your retina that gives you clear, detailed eyesight. If you have that but don't have symptoms, you may start treatment.


Question: Can you get overactive bladder symptoms from other conditions?

Answer: Added pounds are linked to OAB and urine leaks (your doctor will call this urinary incontinence). Try to hold your pee when you have the urge to pee. The main symptoms of OAB can also occur in other conditions: Urinary tract infection Enlarged prostate Bladder cancer Interstitial cystitis, prostatitis If you're living with what seems to be overactive bladder, but don't have an official diagnosis, it's time to see your doctor.


Question: When should I talk to my doctor if I have bladder problems with multiple sclerosis?

Answer: She might also talk to you about some things you can do on your own: Diet changes. Your doctor can tell you how to do them.