Question: What are some other ways pain to classify pain?

Answer: A third category is psychogenic pain, which is pain that is affected by psychological factors. Psychogenic pain most often has a physical origin either in tissue damage or nerve damage, but the pain caused by that damage is increased or prolonged by such factors as fear, depression, stress, or anxiety. In some cases, pain originates from a psychological condition. Pain is also classified by the type of tissue that's involved or by the part of the body that's affected. For example, pain may be referred to as muscular pain or joint pain. Or a doctor may ask you about chest pain or back pain. Certain types of pain are referred to as syndromes. For instance, myofascial pain syndrome refers to pain that is set off by trigger points located in the body's muscles. Fibromyalgia is an example. The pain caused by nerve damage, neuropathic pain, is often described as burning or prickling.


Question: What are shingles and postherpetic neuralgia?

Answer: Pain is most often classified by the kind of damage that causes it. Shingles and postherpetic neuralgia. The pain is described as intense and lightning like, and it can occur in the lips, scalp, forehead, eye, nose, gums, cheek, and chin on one side of the face.


Question: When should you call a doctor about bruises?

Answer: The bruised area seems very painful, swollen, or infected. Your child has a bruise after a serious accident or head or abdominal injury. Your child has a large number of bruises or unexplained bruises. Your child has a fever.


Question: How can I ease my child's pain from bruises?

Answer: Follow the dosing instructions on the label. If your child has never taken this medication before, call your pediatrician first. Don't give aspirin to a child under 16.


Question: Is there treatment for an ocular migraine headache?

Answer: Since it is brief, the vision loss of migraine with aura is not usually treated. But you may need relief for the headache that accompanies or follows it.


Question: What causes juvenile myoclonic epilepsy?

Answer: But it may be tied to genes that run in your family. About one-third of those with the condition have a relative who has seizures. It is clear that some things tend to bring on seizures, though. The most common triggers are lack of sleep and too much stress.


Question: How do you diagnose juvenile myoclonic epilepsy?

Answer: You'll have the test while you're asleep and awake. To do the test, your medical team places electrodes on your scalp. They're connected with wires to a computer that shows the electrical activity of your brain cells. The results look like a graph of spikes and wavy lines. Your doctor will scan them to look for patterns that signal JME.


Question: How often do juvenile myoclonic epilepsy seizures happen?

Answer: Seizures often happen within 30 minutes to an hour of waking up in the morning or after a nap. A cluster of myoclonic jerks may be a warning sign that a tonic-clonic seizure is coming.


Question: What are some myths about electrolysis?

Answer: Myth: Electrolysis is very painful. For most people, today's methods don't cause a lot of pain, but it can hurt. If you find it too uncomfortable, your doctor may be able to give you an anesthetic cream. Myth: The electric tweezer method is permanent. The FDA and the American Medical Association recognize only electrolysis as a permanent method of removing hair. Some states prohibit those using or selling the electric tweezer from claiming it provides permanent hair removal. Myth: Temporary methods of hair removal can be better. Chemical depilatories (liquids or creams) are often used to remove body hair. These products contain irritating chemicals and can be time-consuming and messy. Likewise, bleaches contain harsh chemicals and do little to disguise dark hair. They may also discolor skin. Waxing is another temporary method of hair removal and is usually done in salons. A hot wax is applied to the skin and removed once it has dried over the hair. The hair is stripped off when the wax is removed. Waxing can be painful and costly. Home waxing kits are available, but they can be messy and difficult to use. There are electrolysis devices available for home use, but they are often unsafe for use by anyone who is not trained in electrolysis.


Question: How do I choose an electrologist for electrolysis?

Answer: Electrologists are people who have special training to perform electrolysis. If you are considering electrolysis, it is important that you do your research before committing to sessions. The wrong decision can mean extra sessions and cost along with unnecessary discomfort and scarring. Know the professional's qualifications. Many states require electrologists to be licensed or certified within the state to practice. If you live in one of those states, be sure the practitioner's certificate is current and on display. For states that do not regulate electrolysis, look for electrologists who have certification from an accredited electrology school. Ask around. One of the best ways to find good services is to ask friends and family as well as your doctor for recommendations. If you know anybody who has undergone electrolysis, ask for his or her input. Get a consultation. Many places will give you a free consultation. During the consultation, be sure all of your questions are answered. Some things you may want to ask about include: how the procedure will feel; how many visits you will likely need; how much each visit costs; how long each session lasts; how long the practitioner has been in business; and the number of clients he or she has treated. Make sure the electrologist uses the right technique. The practitioner should use needle electrolysis, which is the only permanent form of hair removal. Some places may advertise electrolysis but use electronic tweezers or photoepilators instead. These are not permanent hair removal procedures. Use common sense. When you go to your consultation, look around. Does the place look clean? Do the workers look clean? Do they use disposable gloves or needles? Ask to meet the person who will be performing the electrolysis. Does he or she strike you as professional? If you are not comfortable with somebody, look for someone else to do the procedure. Personal comfort is essential to knowing you have made the right choice.


Question: What is electrolysis?

Answer: After a very fine probe is inserted into the hair follicle, the hair is removed with tweezers. Most areas of the body can be treated with electrolysis, including the eyebrows, face, abdomen, thighs, breasts, and legs. There are generally no permanent side effects, but sometimes a temporary, slight reddening of the skin may occur. The FDA and the American Medical Association recognize only electrolysis as a permanent method of removing hair.


Question: What is the outlook for people with pancreatic cancer?

Answer: The American Cancer Society reports that only about 23% of patients with cancer of the exocrine pancreas are still living one year after diagnosis. About 8.2% are still alive five years after being diagnosed.


Question: What is the treatment for pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Symptoms of pancreatic cancer include: Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) Pain in the upper or middle abdomen and back Unexplained weight loss Loss of appetite Fatigue Depression The factors which could put you at risk for developing pancreatic cancer include: Smoking Chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) Inherited conditions (including hereditary pancreatitis) Familial pancreatic cancer syndromes Long-standing diabetes Obesity After taking down your health history and performing a physical exam, the doctor may order several tests to determine the cause of your problem or extent of the condition, including: CT scan (computed tomography) MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) Endoscopic ultrasound ( EUS) Laparoscopy (surgical procedure to look at organs) Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography ( ERCP) Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography ( PTC; procedure used to X-ray liver and bile ducts) Biopsy (removal of tissue to view it under a microscope) There are various treatments for pancreatic cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Chemotherapy uses drugs to treat cancer, while radiation therapy uses X-rays or other kinds of radiation to kill cancer cells. Surgery can be used to remove a tumor or to treat symptoms of pancreatic cancer.


Question: What tests are used to diagnose pancreatic cancer?

Answer: Symptoms of pancreatic cancer include: Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes) Pain in the upper or middle abdomen and back Unexplained weight loss Loss of appetite Fatigue Depression The factors which could put you at risk for developing pancreatic cancer include: Smoking Chronic pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) Inherited conditions (including hereditary pancreatitis) Familial pancreatic cancer syndromes Long-standing diabetes Obesity After taking down your health history and performing a physical exam, the doctor may order several tests to determine the cause of your problem or extent of the condition, including: CT scan (computed tomography) MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) Endoscopic ultrasound ( EUS) Laparoscopy (surgical procedure to look at organs) Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography ( ERCP) Percutaneous transhepatic cholangiography ( PTC; procedure used to X-ray liver and bile ducts) Biopsy (removal of tissue to view it under a microscope) There are various treatments for pancreatic cancer, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.


Question: Who can get canker sores?

Answer: Canker sores appear most commonly in adolescents and young adults, often occurring during times of stress. They are also more likely to appear around a women's menstrual period, and there is a greater likelihood of having canker sores if a parent also has them.


Question: What mental health conditions may accompany stress and ADHD?

Answer: ADHD may also be accompanied by other mental health conditions -- conditions that are also linked to stress including: Depression Negative thoughts Anxiety Difficulty sleeping Are these conditions secondary to ADHD or themselves causes of stress? No one knows for sure, but it's important to address stress, in addition to your ADHD.


Question: What are some healthy steps for managing ADHD and stress?

Answer: Maintain overall health Staying healthy helps you manage ADHD better and also helps your body respond more readily to any extra stress. Children, teens, and adults with ADHD can all take these steps to maintain health: Minimize your intake of caffeine or nicotine. Eat a balanced diet. Exercise regularly. Get enough sleep. Avoid drugs and alcohol.


Question: When should I be worried about ADHD-associated stress?

Answer: Stress becomes bad when it overwhelms your ability to act. When stress levels remain high for long periods, problems like depression and heart disease can result.


Question: How does taking control of situations affect ADHD-related stress?

Answer: Take control of your life wherever you can This can be especially helpful to children and teens who often feel lack of control of their ADHD. Older children and teens, for example, should be part of any school planning team that reviews the student's educational needs and plans. Adults may want to learn how to make ADHD-friendly career choices or ask for help to lessen stressors in the workplace.


Question: How can I remove stressors to treat ADHD?

Answer: Remove stressors when appropriate Some stressors can simply be removed or avoided altogether. For example, for a child with ADHD, you may want to schedule play dates with only one other child and monitor the play closely. A teen or adult may want to cut back on extra activities during stressful times.


Question: How do stress management skills help with ADHD?

Answer: Learn stress management skills You can learn skills to deal more effectively or minimize stress. Here are some areas to consider: Strategies for dealing with or avoiding stressful situations Developing more effective problem-solving skills Improving communication skills Learning to speak up for yourself and your needs (self-advocacy) Develop relaxation techniques Learn techniques for meditation or relaxation.


Question: What are some support systems people with ADHD can use to deal with stress?

Answer: Seek out support Friends, family, others with ADHD, and mental health professionals who understand ADHD can all help children, teens, and adults deal with stress. Here are some suggestions: Teens and adults can benefit from working with an ADHD coach, a professional organizer, or a job coach. Connect with groups that provide ADHD information and support. If you're not sure where to go for support, here are some places to start: Attention Deficit Disorder Resources (http://www.addresources.org) Children and Adults with AD/ HD (http://www.chadd.org).


Question: What are common questions about ADHD and stress?

Answer: Does ADHD cause stress? Can stress cause ADHD? Is living with ADHD just a vicious cycle? How can the cycle be interrupted?


Question: Is it okay to feel stressed with ADHD?

Answer: Everyone feels stress. Stress helps you focus on something that requires your attention -- and that's good. It can make you work harder and react quicker.


Question: How can I reduce stress associated with my ADHD?

Answer: Talk to your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan.


Question: What other health problems could arise with ADHD and stress?

Answer: ADHD symptoms can lead to frustration and feelings of loss of control and hopelessness -- a sure set-up for daily stress. If you have ADHD and a lot of unmanaged stress, it could raise your risk of some health problems and worsen symptoms of others, including: Tics or Tourette's syndrome Depression or anxiety attacks Fibromyalgia or chronic pain syndrome Anyone with ADHD -- children, teens, and adults -- can do a lot to manage ADHD and reduce stress.


Question: Why do ADHD and stress often go together and what is the risk of having both?

Answer: ADHD symptoms can lead to frustration and feelings of loss of control and hopelessness -- a sure set-up for daily stress. If you have ADHD and a lot of unmanaged stress, it could raise your risk of some health problems and worsen symptoms of others, including: Tics or Tourette's syndrome Depression or anxiety attacks Fibromyalgia or chronic pain syndrome Anyone with ADHD -- children, teens, and adults -- can do a lot to manage ADHD and reduce stress.


Question: Where can one go for support with ADHD-related stress?

Answer: Can stress cause ADHD? Here are some suggestions: Teens and adults can benefit from working with an ADHD coach, a professional organizer, or a job coach. Connect with groups that provide ADHD information and support. If you're not sure where to go for support, here are some places to start: Attention Deficit Disorder Resources (http://www.addresources.org) Children and Adults with AD/ HD (http://www.chadd.org).


Question: What are some selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants?

Answer: Nevertheless, your doctor may prescribe newer antidepressants known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) for treating depression in bipolar disorder -- along with lithium or other mood stabilizing drugs such as valproate, carbamazepine or an atypical antipsychotic. If and when an antidepressant is effective for someone with bipolar depression, it is believed that the medicine works by boosting the functioning of nerve cells in the brain that communicate through the chemical (neurotransmitter) serotonin. This class of antidepressants includes: citalopram ( Celexa) escitalopram ( Lexapro) fluoxetine ( Prozac) fluvoxamine ( Luvox) paroxetine ( Paxil) sertraline( Zoloft) Vilazodone ( Viibryd) and vortioxetine ( Trintellix, formerly called Brintellix) are two newer antidepressants that affect the serotonin transporter as well as other serotonin receptors in the brain.


Question: How quickly will SSRI antidepressants for bipolar disorder work?

Answer: Most antidepressants take several weeks to start working. Though the first one that is prescribed works in the majority of people, others may need to try two or three to find the right one. Your doctor may also prescribe a sedative to help relieve anxiety, agitation, or sleep problems while the antidepressant begins to work.


Question: What are common side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants?

Answer: Nevertheless, your doctor may prescribe newer antidepressants known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) for treating depression in bipolar disorder -- along with lithium or other mood stabilizing drugs such as valproate, carbamazepine or an atypical antipsychotic. Common SSRI side effects may include: Nausea Nervousness Insomnia Diarrhea Rash Agitation Erectile dysfunction Loss of libido Weight gain or loss In people with bipolar disorder, SSRIs and other antidepressants carry a risk of inducing mania, making it essential to monitor for signs of excess energy, decreased need for sleep, or abnormal and excessive mood elevation.


Question: What are risks of taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants for bipolar disorder?

Answer: Nevertheless, your doctor may prescribe newer antidepressants known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) for treating depression in bipolar disorder -- along with lithium or other mood stabilizing drugs such as valproate, carbamazepine or an atypical antipsychotic. Common SSRI side effects may include: Nausea Nervousness Insomnia Diarrhea Rash Agitation Erectile dysfunction Loss of libido Weight gain or loss In people with bipolar disorder, SSRIs and other antidepressants carry a risk of inducing mania, making it essential to monitor for signs of excess energy, decreased need for sleep, or abnormal and excessive mood elevation. The FDA also recommends closely observing young people treated with SSRIs or other antidepressants for worsening depression or the emergence of suicidal tendencies. For this reason, the FDA recommends careful monitoring of patients being treated with these drugs -- especially at the beginning of therapy and during dose changes.


Question: What are side effects of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants for bipolar depression?

Answer: This class of antidepressants includes: citalopram ( Celexa) escitalopram ( Lexapro) fluoxetine ( Prozac) fluvoxamine ( Luvox) paroxetine ( Paxil) sertraline( Zoloft) Vilazodone ( Viibryd) and vortioxetine ( Trintellix, formerly called Brintellix) are two newer antidepressants that affect the serotonin transporter as well as other serotonin receptors in the brain. SSRI side effects are generally milder than those of the older classes of antidepressants. There are many strategies to counteract the common side effects of SSRIs if they develop, and some side effects may occur only briefly at the beginning of treatment.


Question: Do selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants work for bipolar disorder?

Answer: Traditional antidepressants are considered "experimental" for treating bipolar depression in that none has been proven to be more effective than a placebo (sugar pill) in bipolar I disorder. Nevertheless, your doctor may prescribe newer antidepressants known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) for treating depression in bipolar disorder -- along with lithium or other mood stabilizing drugs such as valproate, carbamazepine or an atypical antipsychotic. If and when an antidepressant is effective for someone with bipolar depression, it is believed that the medicine works by boosting the functioning of nerve cells in the brain that communicate through the chemical (neurotransmitter) serotonin.


Question: How can I control animal dander?

Answer: It may (but does not always) help to wash the animal at least once a week to remove excess dander and collected pollens. Never allow the pet into the allergic child's bedroom. If you don't already own a pet and your child has asthma, consult your child's doctor if you're considering getting one.


Question: What are some basic things to know when you and your doctor are coming up with your child's asthma treatment plan?

Answer: Developing an effective medication plan to control a child's asthma can take a little time and trial and error. Different drugs work more or less effectively for different kinds of asthma, and some drug combinations work well for some children but not for others. There are two main categories of asthma medications: quick-relief medications (rescue medications) and long-term preventive drugs (controller medications) (see Treatment of Asthma). Asthma drugs treat both symptoms and causes, so they effectively control asthma for nearly every child. Over-the-counter drugs, home remedies, and herbal combinations are not substitutes for prescription asthma medication because they cannot reverse airway obstruction and they do not address the cause of many asthma flares.


Question: Why are warning signs important for children with asthma?

Answer: Parents with very young children who can't talk often find early warning signs very helpful in predicting and preventing attacks. And early warning signs can be helpful for older children and even teenagers because they can learn to sense little changes in themselves.


Question: How do I identify asthma triggers and symptoms in children?

Answer: Keep a record of when symptoms occur and how long they last. Once patterns are discovered, some of the triggers can be avoided through environmental control measures, which are steps to reduce exposure to a child's allergy triggers. Talk with your doctor about starting with environmental control measures that will limit those allergens and irritants causing immediate problems for a child. Remember that allergies develop over time with continued exposure to allergens, so a child's asthma triggers may change over time.


Question: How can I control irritants that trigger asthma?

Answer: To control irritants: Do not smoke (or allow others to smoke) at home, even when a child is not present. Do not burn wood fires in fireplaces or wood stoves. Avoid strong odors from paint, perfume, hair spray, disinfectants, chemical cleaners, air fresheners, and glues.


Question: Why is it important to learn more about asthma and its triggers?

Answer: Learning more about asthma and asthma treatment is the secret to successful asthma control. There are several organizations you can contact for information, videos, books, educational video games, and pamphlets.


Question: What can you do about outdoor asthma triggers for children?

Answer: Outdoor controls When mold or pollen counts are high, give your child medications recommended by your doctor (usually an antihistamine like Zyrtec or Claritin) before going outdoors. After playing outdoors, the child should bathe and change clothes. Drive with the car windows shut and air conditioning on during mold and pollen seasons. Don't let a child mow the grass or rake leaves. In some cases, the doctor may recommend immunotherapy, a way of gradually improving your child's tolerance of allergens that bother him, when control measures and medications are not effective.


Question: What are a few ways to control dust mites?

Answer: The following are suggested environmental control measures for different allergens and irritants: Indoor controls To control dust mites: Use only polyester-filled pillows and comforters (never feather or down). Use mite-proof covers (available at allergy supply stores) over pillows and mattresses. Keep covers clean by vacuuming or wiping them down once a week. Wash your child's sheets and blankets once a week in very hot water (130 degrees or higher) to kill dust mites. Dust and vacuum weekly. If possible, use a vacuum specially designed to collect and trap dust mites (with a HEPA filter). Reduce the number of dust-collecting house plants, books, knickknacks, and non washable stuffed animals in your home.


Question: How can I control pollens and molds?

Answer: To control pollens and molds: Ventilate bathrooms, basements, and other damp places where mold can grow. Filters should be changed per the manufacturer's recommendations. Avoid wallpaper and carpets in bathrooms because mold can grow under them. Use bleach to kill mold in bathrooms. Keep windows and doors shut during pollen season. Breathing tests measure the volume and speed of air as it is exhaled from the lungs.


Question: What are asthma triggers in children?

Answer: Triggers are the factors that irritate the airways and cause asthma symptoms. Triggers can change seasonally and as a child grows older. Some common triggers are cigarette smoke, allergens like dust, dust mites, and pet dander, viral infections, irritants like strong perfumes, exercise, breathing cold air, and weather changes. Patients with asthma have chronic inflammation of their airways.


Question: What does the hepatitis C virus cause?

Answer: It's caused by the hepatitis C virus. About 3.9 million people in the U. S. have the disease. But it causes few symptoms, so most of them don't know.


Question: What are the forms of the hepatitis C virus?

Answer: There are many forms of the hepatitis C virus, or HCV. The most common in the U. S. is type 1. None is more serious than any other, but they respond differently to treatment.


Question: Who should get tested for hepatitis C?

Answer: You can be exposed to the virus from: Sharing injection drugs and needles Having sex, especially if you have an STD, an HIV infection, several partners, or have rough sex Being stuck by infected needles Birth -- a mother can pass it to a child Sharing personal care items like toothbrushes, razor blades, and nail clippers Getting a tattoo or piercing with unclean equipment You can't catch hepatitis C through: Breastfeeding (unless nipples are cracked and bleeding) Casual contact Coughing Hugging Holding hands Kissing Mosquito bites Sharing eating utensils Sharing food or drink Sneezing You could notice acute symptoms along with: Fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity (ascites) or the legs (edema) Gallstones Your brain doesn't work as well (encephalopathy) Kidney failure Easy bleeding and bruising Intense itching Muscle loss Problems with memory and concentration Spider-like veins on the skin Vomiting blood due to bleeding in the lower esophagus (esophageal varices) Weight loss The CDC recommends you get tested for the disease if you: Received blood from a donor who had the disease Have ever injected or inhaled drugs Had a blood transfusion or an organ transplant before July 1992 Received a blood product used to treat clotting problems before 1987 Were born between 1945 and 1965, the age group with the highest rate of infection Have been on long-term kidney dialysis Have HIV Were born to a mother with hepatitis C Have symptoms of liver disease Got a tattoo or piercing with unclean equipment Are or have ever been in prison Doctors will start by checking your blood for: Anti- HCV antibodies: These are proteins your body makes when it finds the hep C virus in your blood.


Question: How is hepatitis C diagnosed?

Answer: If your antibody test is positive, you'll get this test: HCV RNA: It measures the number of viral RNA (genetic material from the hepatitis virus) particles in your blood.


Question: What are the symptoms of hepatitis C?

Answer: But between 2 weeks and 6 months after the virus enters your bloodstream, you could notice: Clay-colored poop Dark urine Fever Fatigue Jaundice (a condition that causes yellow eyes and skin, as well as dark urine) Joint pain Loss of appetite Nausea Stomach pain Vomiting Symptoms usually last for 2 to 12 weeks. This combination is approved to treat adults with chronic HCV, either with no cirrhosis or with compensated cirrhosis (the stage of the disease that doesn't have symptoms), who've already had certain treatments.


Question: How can you get hepatitis C?

Answer: The virus spreads through an infected person's blood or body fluids. You can be exposed to the virus from: Sharing injection drugs and needles Having sex, especially if you have an STD, an HIV infection, several partners, or have rough sex Being stuck by infected needles Birth -- a mother can pass it to a child Sharing personal care items like toothbrushes, razor blades, and nail clippers Getting a tattoo or piercing with unclean equipment You can't catch hepatitis C through: Breastfeeding (unless nipples are cracked and bleeding) Casual contact Coughing Hugging Holding hands Kissing Mosquito bites Sharing eating utensils Sharing food or drink Sneezing You could notice acute symptoms along with: Fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity (ascites) or the legs (edema) Gallstones Your brain doesn't work as well (encephalopathy) Kidney failure Easy bleeding and bruising Intense itching Muscle loss Problems with memory and concentration Spider-like veins on the skin Vomiting blood due to bleeding in the lower esophagus (esophageal varices) Weight loss The CDC recommends you get tested for the disease if you: Received blood from a donor who had the disease Have ever injected or inhaled drugs Had a blood transfusion or an organ transplant before July 1992 Received a blood product used to treat clotting problems before 1987 Were born between 1945 and 1965, the age group with the highest rate of infection Have been on long-term kidney dialysis Have HIV Were born to a mother with hepatitis C Have symptoms of liver disease Got a tattoo or piercing with unclean equipment Are or have ever been in prison Doctors will start by checking your blood for: Anti- HCV antibodies: These are proteins your body makes when it finds the hep C virus in your blood.


Question: How is hepatitis C treated?

Answer: The most common in the U. S. is type 1. But hepatitis C treatments have changed a lot in recent years. Ledipasvir-sofosbuvir ( Harvoni). This once-daily pill cures the disease in most people in 8-12 weeks. Elbasvir-grazoprevir ( Zepatier). This once-daily pill has cured the disease in as many as 97% of those treated.


Question: What does treatment of hepatitis C depend on?

Answer: There are many forms of the hepatitis C virus, or HCV. The most common in the U. S. is type 1. Your doctor will make sure you get regular screenings because there are usually no symptoms in the early stages.


Question: Are there any long-term effects of hepatitis C?

Answer: Now you're more likely to get one of these medications: Daclastasvir ( Daklinza). The most common effects of hepatitis C drugs depend on the medicine and often include: Flu-like symptoms Fatigue Hair loss Headache Low blood counts Trouble thinking Nervousness Depression About 75% to 85% of people who have it get a long-term infection called chronic hepatitis C. If the condition goes untreated, it can lead to: Cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver Liver cancer Liver failure There's no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C. To help avoid getting the virus: Use a latex condom every time you have sex.


Question: How can you prevent hepatitis C infection?

Answer: The results can be: Nonreactive, or negative: That may mean you don't have hep C. If you've been exposed in the last 6 months, you'll need to be retested. They usually show up 1-2 weeks after you're infected. The most common effects of hepatitis C drugs depend on the medicine and often include: Flu-like symptoms Fatigue Hair loss Headache Low blood counts Trouble thinking Nervousness Depression About 75% to 85% of people who have it get a long-term infection called chronic hepatitis C. If the condition goes untreated, it can lead to: Cirrhosis, or scarring of the liver Liver cancer Liver failure There's no vaccine to prevent hepatitis C. To help avoid getting the virus: Use a latex condom every time you have sex. Don't share personal items like razors. The equipment may have someone else's blood on it.


Question: What does a breast surgeon do for breast cancer?

Answer: A doctor who specializes in the surgical removal of breast tumors and lymph nodes while saving as much of the breast as possible. These doctors may also do biopsies to diagnose or treat the cancer.


Question: What does a plastic surgeon do for breast cancer?

Answer: A surgeon who specializes in breast reconstruction.


Question: What does a pathologist for breast cancer do?

Answer: A doctor who checks tissue samples under a microscope. They decide whether cancer is present, its size, whether the surgery removed all the cancer, and how many lymph nodes have cancer, if any.


Question: What does a surgical oncologist for breast cancer do?

Answer: Surgical oncologists perform biopsies and other operations such as removing a lump or a breast. These doctors have completed their general surgery training and have received additional training in surgical oncology.


Question: What does a radiation oncologist for breast cancer do?

Answer: A doctor trained in treating cancer with radiation.


Question: What other health care professionals may be involved in your breast cancer treatment?

Answer: Radiation oncologist. A doctor trained in treating cancer with radiation. Other health care professionals may be involved in your breast cancer treatment, including: Oncology nurses who have special skills and pass a certifying test Radiation technologist who helps place you in the correct treatment position and delivers the proper radiation dose to the proper site Radiation physicist who helps plan the radiation dosage and treatment field to make it as safe as possible Your primary care doctor can refer you to a specialist to treat your breast cancer.


Question: Should you look for a board-certified breast cancer specialist?

Answer: For example, there is no board certification for breast cancer surgery. Surgeons performing breast cancer surgery should be board-certified in general surgery, which gives them the basic skills needed to perform breast surgery. If doctors practice in specialties that do not have national boards, additional training such as fellowships and years of experience are usually good measures of their qualifications.


Question: What is the role of surgical oncologist in treating breast cancer?

Answer: A doctor who specializes in the surgical treatment of cancer. Surgical oncologists perform biopsies and other operations such as removing a lump or a breast. These doctors have completed their general surgery training and have received additional training in surgical oncology.


Question: What is a radiation oncologist?

Answer: A doctor trained in treating cancer with radiation.


Question: What breast cancer specialties don't have board certifications?

Answer: But some of the specialties that are important in cancer treatment don't have board certifications. Doctors who practice in these specialties are board-certified in a broader field. For example, there is no board certification for breast cancer surgery. Surgeons performing breast cancer surgery should be board-certified in general surgery, which gives them the basic skills needed to perform breast surgery.


Question: What does a radiologist do if you have breast cancer?

Answer: A doctor who is trained in reading X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and other forms of imaging that look into the body.


Question: What is a medical oncologist?

Answer: A doctor who specializes in the medical treatment of cancer. Medical oncologists have a thorough knowledge of how cancers behave and grow and how to use medication to treat them. They also figure out the risk of the breast cancer coming back, as well as the need for more treatments (such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, or radiation therapy).


Question: What does a radiologist do for breast cancer?

Answer: A doctor who is trained in reading X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, ultrasounds, and other forms of imaging that look into the body.


Question: What is the role of a pathologist in treating breast cancer?

Answer: A doctor who checks tissue samples under a microscope. They decide whether cancer is present, its size, whether the surgery removed all the cancer, and how many lymph nodes have cancer, if any.


Question: What does a breast surgeon do for someone with breast cancer?

Answer: A doctor who specializes in the surgical removal of breast tumors and lymph nodes while saving as much of the breast as possible. These doctors may also do biopsies to diagnose or treat the cancer.


Question: What are breast cancer specialists?

Answer: Specialists are doctors who have trained in a specific area of medicine. After finishing the training needed for their specialty, they must pass an exam given by the specialty board. Doctors who pass the national board exams become board-certified specialists. Doctors who have not completed the specialty board exam are "board-eligible" but are not yet specialists.


Question: What if a doctor's specialty doesn't offer board certification?

Answer: If doctors practice in specialties that do not have national boards, additional training such as fellowships and years of experience are usually good measures of their qualifications. Some specialists can subspecialize by completing more training in a particular area. They can sometimes become board-certified in the subspecialty, too.


Question: How can you find a specialist to treat your breast cancer?

Answer: Your primary care doctor may refer you to one or more specialists. You can also get the names of specialists from a medical society, your local hospitals, and medical schools. The American Board of Medical Specialties publishes The Official ABMS Directory of Board Certified Medical Specialists. This lists a specialist's name, education, and specialty field. You can buy the directory, but it's also available at no charge through www.abms.org and at most public libraries.


Question: What does a medical oncologist for breast cancer do?

Answer: They also figure out the risk of the breast cancer coming back, as well as the need for more treatments (such as chemotherapy, hormonal therapy, or radiation therapy). The medical oncologist manages your overall medical care for cancer and monitors your health during your treatment. They check your progress frequently, review your lab and X-ray results, and coordinate your medical care before and after your treatment. Other health care professionals may be involved in your breast cancer treatment, including: Oncology nurses who have special skills and pass a certifying test Radiation technologist who helps place you in the correct treatment position and delivers the proper radiation dose to the proper site Radiation physicist who helps plan the radiation dosage and treatment field to make it as safe as possible Your primary care doctor can refer you to a specialist to treat your breast cancer.


Question: What are some tips for choosing the right day care for my loved ones with Alzheimer's disease?

Answer: Local churches and senior centers may have a list of nearby programs. You can also check with assisted-living facilities and nursing homes. Find out about the center's application process, who they serve, and take a look at sample menus and activity calendars. Once you've done some basic research, there are a few things to consider: How long the program has been open Who owns or sponsors it When they're open How much does it cost?


Question: What choosing a day care for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease, what things should I keep in mind when I visit?

Answer: Your loved one can go to day care during daytime hours and come home for the night. Find out about the center's application process, who they serve, and take a look at sample menus and activity calendars. Is there a place for people to go when they're sick? What kind of licensing or credentials do the staff have? Do volunteers help out? What is the staff-to-client ratio? ( Six clients per staff member is good). Can you look at a list of references?


Question: What some of the risks of an immunotherapy clinical trial?

Answer: Like all medicine, immunotherapy comes with risks. A few to think about before you join a clinical trial: The treatment may not work. There may be unexpected side effects. You may need tests that could be uncomfortable or take a lot of time. Your health insurance may not cover some costs.


Question: Why should I consider taking part in a clinical trial?

Answer: There are many reasons to consider taking part in a clinical trial: You may get it along with other treatments to boost your odds of beating cancer. It has cured some cancers. You have access to a medicine that isn't available to the public. You could help scientists learn more about cancer so they can help more people in the future.


Question: What are cancer immunotherapy clinical trials?

Answer: Several immunotherapy drugs are approved for cancer, and hundreds more are available to those who take part in clinical trials. They happen across the United States and around the world. She can help you weigh the pros and cons and find out if there's an immunotherapy clinical trial near you. The goal is to: Find a safe dose of the drug Decide how the drug should be given (shots, pills, etc.) Scientists may test a new drug or a new use for an approved immunotherapy.


Question: What inflammatory conditions can glucocorticoids treat?

Answer: Glucocorticoids treat many conditions that are caused by inflammation, such as: Asthma Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) Allergies Rheumatoid arthritis Osteoarthritis Crohn's disease and other types of inflammatory bowel disease Eczema and other skin conditions Multiple sclerosis Tendinitis Lupus Doctors also prescribe glucocorticoids for people who get organ transplants.


Question: What are the types of glucocorticoids?

Answer: A glucocorticoid is a kind of steroid. The type you need depends on the specific health condition you have. Among the most common ones are: Cortisone: a shot that can ease inflammation in your joints Prednisone and dexamethasone: pills that treat allergies, arthritis, asthma, vision problems, and many other conditions Triamcinolone: a cream that treats skin conditions Budesonide: a pill for ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, autoimmune diseases that affect your digestive tract How glucocorticoids affect you will depend on the specific drug or the dose you take.


Question: When should you call a doctor about glucocorticoids?

Answer: A glucocorticoid is a kind of steroid. But using them for a long time can cause health problems, including: Osteoporosis, when bones get weaker and break easily High blood pressure Diabetes If you notice any changes in how you feel while you take these drugs, be sure to tell your doctor. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of prednisone and other glucocorticoids. These medications may be a slight risk to your baby. However, if you're taking them because you have a serious health problem or a life-threatening disease, staying on your treatment may outweigh the chance that the drugs will harm your baby.


Question: How do glucocorticoids work?

Answer: Inflammation is your immune system's response to an injury or infection. That means your immune system attacks healthy cells and tissue as if they were viruses or bacteria. Glucocorticoids keep your body from pumping out so many of the chemicals involved in inflammation. They can also dial back your immune system's response by changing the way white blood cells work.


Question: Where can you learn more about basal cell carcinoma?

Answer: Learn more about basal cell carcinoma, including pictures of skin tumors, on the web site of the American Cancer Society.


Question: What causes basal cell carcinoma?

Answer: Ultraviolet ( UV) rays from the sun or from a tanning bed are the main cause of basal cell carcinoma. When UV rays hit your skin, over time, they can damage the DNA in your skin cells. The DNA holds the code for the way these cells grow. Over time, damage to the DNA can cause cancer to form. The process takes many years.


Question: How can Crohn's disease affect your mood?

Answer: Crohn's disease, like other chronic conditions, may affect your mood. You may feel more stressed or depressed at times. You may have pain, which also affects your emotions. If your condition starts to get to you, look into seeing a counselor and joining a support group.


Question: How does Crohn's disease affect your body?

Answer: Crohn's disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. That means that your body's immune system attacks and damages your bowel or gastrointestinal system. It's a chronic, meaning long-term, condition that gets in the way of your body's ability to take in important nutrients. It can also affect the way you digest food and get rid of waste. Crohn's can involve any part of your gut. But the ileum, the last part of your small intestine, is most commonly affected.


Question: How can you be affected by Crohn's disease?

Answer: Each person is different. Your Crohn's disease might: Affect a large part of your gastrointestinal system or only a small part Be mild, moderate, or severe Go long periods without symptoms or flare-ups Be fairly easy to control, or it may be very difficult Go into remission Depending on the way Crohn's affects you and your ability to manage it, you may have some challenges.


Question: How can Crohn's disease affect you if you're female?

Answer: If you're female, Crohn's could affect your ability to get pregnant. If it isn't well-controlled, it may cause problems once you are pregnant. Your doctor may recommend a C-section if you have certain complications.


Question: How can Crohn's disease affect your daily activities?

Answer: You may want to plan your activities with your Crohn's in mind. For example, know where the closest bathroom is.


Question: What should you do if you have Crohn's disease?

Answer: He can help you understand your condition and provide answers to your questions. It's a good idea to learn all you can about it. Doctors say if these things apply to you at diagnosis, your Crohn's may be more severe if you: Are younger than 40 Have perianal or rectal disease Are taking steroids first thing Smoke Have a low education level Some general facts: A small number of people will go into a long remission right after their first diagnosis.


Question: How can knowing what to expect with Crohn's disease help?

Answer: You've heard and read a lot about it, but you don't really know what to expect. Eye problems: Over time, the inflammation from Crohn's, or sometimes the other complications that come with it, can affect your eyes.


Question: Is remission possible in Crohn's disease?

Answer: With Crohn's, remission is sometimes thought to take place when symptoms go away and ulcers in the colon begin to heal. You may have pain, which also affects your emotions.


Question: How can Crohn's disease affect your diet?

Answer: But you may need to make some adjustments. For instance, if milk products or greasy foods cause diarrhea, don't eat them.


Question: What are the risks of Crohn's disease?

Answer: He can help you understand your condition and provide answers to your questions. Your doctor may recommend a C-section if you have certain complications. Ankylosing spondylitis: This more serious type of spinal arthritis is rare among people with Crohn's, but it can happen. They can: Stop your body from absorbing calcium, which your body needs to build bone Make your body get rid of calcium when you pee Boost production of cells that break down bone Lower the number of cells that help form bones Lower your body's output of estrogen. Uric acid stones: These kidney stones form due to dehydration and a process called metabolic acidosis in which the balance of acids and bases in your blood gets thrown off. You're only likely to notice low energy and fatigue unless you develop a more serious problem. When Crohn's affects the terminal ileum (where your small intestine meets the large intestine), it can't process bile salts, which help cholesterol dissolve in bile. When that happens, the cholesterol can form into stones that block the opening between the liver and the bile duct, which sends bile down to your intestines. Hepatitis: Crohn's disease can cause chronic (long-term) liver inflammation and primary sclerosing cholangitis.


Question: How severe is constipation as a side effect of opioid pain medication?

Answer: It can happen any time you're taking the drug. The longer you take the drug, the bigger the chance it will block you up. These messages can make your intestines squeeze on both ends of the stool so that it doesn't go anywhere. Your intestines absorb some of the water from your stool as it moves through your gut.


Question: How do opioid pain medications cause constipation?

Answer: The longer you take the drug, the bigger the chance it will block you up. These messages can make your intestines squeeze on both ends of the stool so that it doesn't go anywhere. Your intestines absorb some of the water from your stool as it moves through your gut.


Question: What are symptoms of constipation as a side effect from opioids?

Answer: The main symptoms of opioid constipation are: Your stools might get hard and dry. You might not get the urge to go as often as before. You may have to push really hard when you go. You might feel like you don't get everything out. Call him right away if you feel severe pain. The longer you take the drug, the bigger the chance it will block you up. When they open, stools can pass through. Your intestines absorb some of the water from your stool as it moves through your gut.


Question: Do people with insomnia have fatigue or sleepiness?

Answer: Symptoms of daytime fatigue include: Weariness, weakness, and/or depleted energy Lack of motivation Poor performance Memory problems Lack of productivity Tendency to make errors and mistakes Depression Low interest in being social Fatigue is a more accurate description of what people with insomnia experience. Although they're sleep deprived, they tend to feel more tired than sleepy. If you have insomnia, you might find it hard to nap. People with insomnia usually see a doctor because of fatigue and poor daytime functioning, not because they have trouble falling or staying asleep.


Question: In what ways can insomnia take a toll on your life?

Answer: In addition, people with insomnia are more likely to: Miss work Make bad decisions Take more risks Have trouble concentrating Be irritable Be depressed Eat foods high in calories According to experts, chronic insomnia affects one in 10 people.


Question: What does excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) look like?

Answer: They might fall asleep while stopped at a stoplight or sitting in a waiting room. EDS is usually caused by conditions like sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, narcolepsy, neurologic conditions such as Parkinson's disease, as well as many medications. People with daytime fatigue are very tired but usually don't fall asleep during the day.


Question: What does insomnia increase your risk for in terms of health problems?

Answer: In addition to causing daytime fatigue, insomnia increases your risk for other health problems, including: Heart disease Stroke High blood pressure Infections Obesity Diabetes Depression Pain Substance abuse Early death Sleep affects our ability to think, react, remember, and solve problems.


Question: What are symptoms of daytime fatigue?

Answer: People with daytime fatigue are very tired but usually don't fall asleep during the day. They struggle to get through a normal day's activities. Symptoms of daytime fatigue include: Weariness, weakness, and/or depleted energy Lack of motivation Poor performance Memory problems Lack of productivity Tendency to make errors and mistakes Depression Low interest in being social Fatigue is a more accurate description of what people with insomnia experience.


Question: How can you get rid of daytime fatigue?

Answer: Your first step to getting rid of daytime fatigue is to figure out what's causing it. In addition to insomnia, many other issues can cause fatigue. These include other sleep disorders, diabetes, arthritis, asthma, and chronic fatigue syndrome. These can greatly improve how you feel and function during the day.


Question: How can insomnia lead to car and workplace accidents?

Answer: People with insomnia are more likely than well-rested people to have a car crash due to fatigue. Lack of sleep is also the cause of over 7% of all serious accidents in the workplace. If you have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep, tell the doctor.


Question: Is a spinal tap safe, or are there side effects?

Answer: But just like most tests, there are a few minor risks. These include: Headache. About 10% of people get a spinal headache -- one that gets worse when you sit or stand and feels better instantly when you lie down. If you get one, lie down as much as possible and drink plenty of fluids. Infection. But the risk is very low. Bloody tap. Sometimes the procedure may pierce a small blood vessel, so blood mixes in with the CSF. You won't need treatment for it, but in some cases, you may need another spinal tap later on to get a "clear" sample.


Question: What happens after a spinal tap?

Answer: You'll need to lie on your back or stomach for a few hours. You also may need to give a sample of your blood for testing, too.


Question: How does a spinal tap help diagnose multiple sclerosis?

Answer: If you have the condition, your CSF (spinal fluid) will have higher amounts of certain proteins. If someone's CSF doesn't have these proteins, though, they might still have multiple sclerosis -- 5% to 10% of people with the condition never show signs in their spinal fluid. Also, these signs can show up in a number of other diseases, too. So a spinal tap by itself can't confirm or rule out a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. It must be part of the total picture of testing for the disease.


Question: Should I avoid exercise after a spinal tap?

Answer: Avoid intense exercise for a day or so after the procedure.


Question: When should I call my doctor immediately after a spinal tap?

Answer: And if you're allergic to latex or any medications, tell your doctor.


Question: How important are spinal taps in diagnosing multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Also, these signs can show up in a number of other diseases, too. So a spinal tap by itself can't confirm or rule out a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis. It must be part of the total picture of testing for the disease.


Question: What are some minor risks associated with spinal taps?

Answer: But just like most tests, there are a few minor risks. These include: Headache. About 10% of people get a spinal headache -- one that gets worse when you sit or stand and feels better instantly when you lie down. If you get one, lie down as much as possible and drink plenty of fluids. Infection. But the risk is very low. Bloody tap. Sometimes the procedure may pierce a small blood vessel, so blood mixes in with the CSF. You won't need treatment for it, but in some cases, you may need another spinal tap later on to get a "clear" sample.


Question: What is a spinal tap?

Answer: Your brain and spinal cord are bathed in fluid. A spinal tap, also called a lumbar puncture, is a procedure doctors use to remove and test some of this liquid, called cerebrospinal fluid ( CSF). It helps them diagnose disorders of the brain and spinal cord, including multiple sclerosis.


Question: What happens during a spinal tap?

Answer: To start, you'll lie on your side with your knees drawn as close to your chest as possible. Or you'll sit with your arms and head resting on a table. After the skin around your lower back is cleansed and covered, you'll get medicine to numb that part of your body. Your doctor will put a long, thin hollow needle in your low back between two bones in your lower spine and into the space filled with CSF. He'll take 1-2 tablespoons of fluid and remove the needle. The procedure doesn't touch your spinal cord.


Question: How does someone prepare for a spinal tap?

Answer: You don't have to do anything to get ready, unless your doctor gives you special instructions. In most cases, you'll need to stop taking any blood thinner medicines, including aspirin, for a few days beforehand. And if you're allergic to latex or any medications, tell your doctor.


Question: How do I prepare for a spinal tap?

Answer: And if you're allergic to latex or any medications, tell your doctor. You'll need to lie on your back or stomach for a few hours.


Question: What is a spinal tap and how is it related to multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Your brain and spinal cord are bathed in fluid. It helps them diagnose disorders of the brain and spinal cord, including multiple sclerosis. He'll take 1-2 tablespoons of fluid and remove the needle.


Question: How is leukemia diagnosed?

Answer: Because many types of leukemia show no obvious symptoms early in the disease, leukemia may be diagnosed incidentally during a physical exam or as a result of routine blood testing. To confirm the diagnosis and identify the specific type of leukemia, a needle biopsy and aspiration of bone marrow from a pelvic bone will need to be done to test for leukemic cells, DNA markers, and chromosome changes in the bone marrow.


Question: What does it mean if my nails are yellow?

Answer: Nails that are thick, slow-growing, and yellow often point to lung diseases like emphysema or chronic bronchitis. Fluid in your lungs and hands also can lead to yellow nail syndrome. So can Raynaud's phenomenon, which is caused by poor circulation to the fingers, toes, and nose. Yellow nails can even be a symptom of sinusitis, thyroid problems, and rheumatoid arthritis. Only your doctor can tell you what they mean.


Question: What causes my nails to pit or split?

Answer: Psoriasis often starts in your nails. It can make them split and cause pits on the surface. Other causes include inflammatory arthritis or thyroid disease.


Question: What should I do if I have symptoms of nail problems?

Answer: They're packed with details about your health. They can show if you have an infection, a serious disease, or even how well you're eating. Lots of things can cause your nails to separate from the nail bed: Long fingernails (the most common cause) Injury or infection Reactions to nail hardeners or adhesives Chemical overexposure from manicures Medications like tetracycline and naproxen, which create light sensitivity and can cause your nails to become photosensitive and lift away from the nail bed Psoriasis, thyroid disease, or other illness, especially if all of the nails are affected Don't ignore changes in your nails, but don't jump to conclusions either. Only your doctor can tell for sure. Though common, fungal infections can be hard to treat. If your symptoms don't go away, see a dermatologist. Nail changes are rarely the first sign of illness. Other symptoms almost always appear before that happens.


Question: What are combination medications for high blood pressure?

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


Question: How do ARBs work for high blood pressure?

Answer: Doxazosin ( Cardura) Prazosin ( Minipress) Terazosin ( Hytrin) Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors prevent your body from making a hormone that tells blood vessels to tighten. With less of this hormone in your body, your blood vessels stay more open. Candesartan ( Atacand) Eprosartan ( Teveten) Irbesartan ( Avapro) Losartan ( Cozaar) Telmisartan ( Micardis) Valsartan ( Diovan) These target the same process that ACE inhibitors and ARBs do, so your blood vessels don't tighten up.


Question: How common is hyperparathyroidism?

Answer: About 100,000 people in the U. S. develop this condition each year. People between the ages of 50 and 60, and women, are the most likely to have hyperparathyroidism.


Question: How does parathyroid hormone raise calcium levels?

Answer: The hormone, called parathyroid hormone, has three ways it can raise your calcium level: It can tell your bones to release some calcium, tell your small intestine to absorb more calcium into your bloodstream, or tell your kidneys to hang on to more calcium instead of sending it out of your body in your pee.


Question: What's the treatment for hyperparathyroidism?

Answer: If you have secondary hyperparathyroidism, your doctor may recommend supplements of vitamin D and calcium. If you have primary hyperparathyroidism and you have bothersome symptoms, you'll need surgery to remove the overactive parathyroid gland or glands. For example, if you have extremely high blood calcium levels, have had a broken bone (or fracture), or have kidney stones, your doctor will likely want you to have that operation. Even if you don't have symptoms, your doctor may recommend the operation, depending on how you together decide to treat the condition.


Question: What causes primary hyperparathyroidism?

Answer: A condition called hyperparathyroidism can cause such a situation to happen, where your levels of calcium in your blood and tissues are too high. This means that your condition is caused by, or starts in, at least one of the parathyroid glands naturally making too much of the hormone that keeps your calcium levels in balance. Primary hyperparathyroidism can happen due to: A noncancerous tumor in one of the parathyroid glands. This causes most primary cases. Two or more of the glands being too active and producing too much of the parathyroid hormone. Cancer of one of the glands. This is a very rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism.


Question: What are benefits of surgery for hyperparathyroidism?

Answer: A condition called hyperparathyroidism can cause such a situation to happen, where your levels of calcium in your blood and tissues are too high. If you have primary hyperparathyroidism and you have bothersome symptoms, you'll need surgery to remove the overactive parathyroid gland or glands. Even if you don't have symptoms, your doctor may recommend the operation, depending on how you together decide to treat the condition. You might get these benefits from the surgery: Improved bone density Fewer bone fractures Less chance of forming kidney stones Surgery cures primary hyperparathyroidism in 95% of cases.


Question: What is hyperparathyroidism?

Answer: But there are times when your body can have so much calcium that it's not good for you. A condition called hyperparathyroidism can cause such a situation to happen, where your levels of calcium in your blood and tissues are too high. They make a hormone that helps keep your amount of calcium at just the right level. But when even one of those glands makes too much of the hormone, the result is hyperparathyroidism. Cancer of one of the glands. Secondary hyperparathyroidism (apart from kidney failure) can happen if: Your body doesn't get enough calcium.


Question: How is hyperparathyroidism diagnosed?

Answer: A condition called hyperparathyroidism can cause such a situation to happen, where your levels of calcium in your blood and tissues are too high. And it has nothing to do with how much milk you drink. If the results show that you have high levels of parathyroid hormone and of calcium, then you have primary hyperparathyroidism. You'll then get: X-rays to check for broken bones in certain areas, including in your back Bone density tests to look for reduced bone mineral density, especially in your forearm Kidney ultrasound to look for kidney stones 24-hour urine calcium collection to check for any kidney problems Blood tests looking at how well your kidneys work and your levels of phosphate and vitamin D can suggest secondary hyperparathyroidism.


Question: How is hyperparathyroidism treated?

Answer: A condition called hyperparathyroidism can cause such a situation to happen, where your levels of calcium in your blood and tissues are too high. If you have secondary hyperparathyroidism, your doctor may recommend supplements of vitamin D and calcium. If you have primary hyperparathyroidism and you have bothersome symptoms, you'll need surgery to remove the overactive parathyroid gland or glands. Even if you don't have symptoms, your doctor may recommend the operation, depending on how you together decide to treat the condition.


Question: What are symptoms of primary hyperparathyroidism?

Answer: But if you do have symptoms, they are likely not severe. They include: Muscles that feel weaker than usual Fatigue and wanting to sleep more Pain in your joints and bones Depression But if you have a more severe form of primary hyperparathyroidism and your calcium levels rise, your symptoms also could include: Being constipated Feeling nauseated Throwing up Not feeling hungry Feeling confused or forgetting things You're more thirsty than usual You pee more often than normal You have pain on one side of your lower abdomen (if you have kidney stones) Your doctor will make the diagnosis based on blood tests. If you have primary hyperparathyroidism and you have bothersome symptoms, you'll need surgery to remove the overactive parathyroid gland or glands.


Question: How can bacterial vaginosis (BV) affect pregnancy?

Answer: When you're going through fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization ( IVF), you may have less success if you have BV. Pregnant women with BV have had babies who were born premature (before the 37th week) or with a low birth weight (less than 5.5 pounds). Since there's a chance BV could be the cause, you should get it treated.


Question: What causes bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Answer: Both "good" and "bad" bacteria live in your vagina.


Question: What can raise my odds of getting bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Answer: Any woman can get BV, but some things raise your odds, including: Smoking Sexual activity Douching Douching upsets the natural balance of bacteria. Scented soaps, bubble baths, and vaginal deodorants have a similar effect. A new sex partner, or having more than one, makes it more likely that you'll get BV. The reason why isn't clear, but women who have female partners are most at risk. You can also get BV from oral and anal sex. An IUD birth control device, which fits inside your uterus, has been linked to BV -- especially if you have irregular bleeding. But we need more studies to know if it's really a cause. You might have heard that you can get vaginal infections like BV from swimming pools or public toilet seats, but that's not true.


Question: What are the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Answer: Around half of all women with BV show no symptoms. But if you do, you could notice a: Thin white, gray, or green discharge Burning feeling when you pee Fishy smell that gets stronger after sex It's not the same as a yeast infection. Those often itch, have a thick, white discharge, and don't smell.


Question: What other infections are associated with bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Answer: Having BV makes it easier for you to get an STI like herpes, chlamydia, or gonorrhea. If you already have HIV, BV raises your chances of passing it on to your partner. If you have BV when you get a hysterectomy or other surgery on your female organs, you're more likely to come down with a bacterial infection afterward. Some of the same things that cause BV can also lead to pelvic inflammatory disease ( PID), an infection of your uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.


Question: How can I prevent  bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Answer: To lower your chances of getting BV, use only water â not even soap -- when you wash your genital area. Don't douche. When you go to the bathroom, wipe from front to back, from your vagina toward your anus. Put a condom on before his penis touches your vagina, mouth, or anus. Clean sex toys after every use. Limit the number of sex partners you have. Get tested for STIs, and have your partners get tested, too.


Question: What is bacterial vaginosis (BV)?

Answer: You may not have symptoms, and you may not need treatment. Most of the time, BV doesn't cause any other health problems. If your lactobacillus levels drop, more bad bacteria move in, and you get BV. If you have BV when you get a hysterectomy or other surgery on your female organs, you're more likely to come down with a bacterial infection afterward.


Question: How is bacterial vaginosis (BV) treated?

Answer: You may not have symptoms, and you may not need treatment. Your BV may go away on its own. When you do have symptoms, your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to get rid of your infection. This could be a tablet you take by mouth or a cream or gel you apply to your vagina. You'll need to take most treatments for 5 to 7 days. And you should finish all of your medicine, even if your symptoms go away. If you stop early, your infection could come back. Since BV could be spread through sex, avoid all sexual contact until you're better. If your partner is another woman, she may want to see her doctor so she can be treated, too. If you use an IUD and BV keeps coming back (recurrent BV), you may want to talk to your doctor about a different type of birth control instead. Even after BV is treated and goes away, it's common for it to return. If that happens, you'll probably need to take antibiotics again for a longer time.


Question: How does moving around help comfort a crying baby?

Answer: Has your baby ever stopped crying after you picked her up and walked around? If so, you know that motion can be a fuss-buster. Many crying babies find comfort in smooth, rhythmic movements, like being rocked in a rocking chair, hammock, or infant swing. Take yours for a walk in a stroller or for a car ride -- just be sure she's safely strapped into her rear-facing car seat. Try out different types of motion to see what soothes your baby best. Don't place her on top of a vibrating appliance, such as a dishwasher or dryer, because she could fall.


Question: What are some ways to comfort a crying baby?

Answer: Try out different background sounds, like a white noise machine, a recorded heartbeat, the shower, or household appliances like dishwashers or washing machines.


Question: How can contact that comforts help your crying baby?

Answer: Your baby may relax when she feels like she did in the womb. Swaddle her in a blanket, or gently pat her on the back in a pattern like a heartbeat. Lie down with her against your side, or keep her close to your body in an infant sling as you walk around. A warm bath may also help.


Question: How can sounds that soothes help comfort your crying baby?

Answer: In the womb, she got used to hearing a heartbeat. Try out different background sounds, like a white noise machine, a recorded heartbeat, the shower, or household appliances like dishwashers or washing machines. If the sound really seems to work, record it so you can play it when your baby is upset. Babies also respond to familiar voices. Sing your baby a gentle lullaby or quietly hum while you hold her, or as she lies on your chest. Shhhing" sounds Swinging Sucking (feed her, or give her a pacifier) No matter which technique you try, remember that your baby is more likely to stop crying if you remain calm.


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

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


Question: Does controlling diabetes help skin problems?

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


Question: Does diabetes cause skin problems?

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


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

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


Question: How does self-awareness help with diabetes?

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


Question: How can you prevent dry skin if you have diabetes?

Answer: Keep your skin -- especially at armpits, toes, and groin -- clean and dry, but not too dry. Take short, lukewarm showers or baths and use mild soaps and shampoos when you wash. The best time is right after a shower or bath, when it's still moist. Dry well by patting gently. Don't rub. Focus on underarms, between legs, under breasts, and between toes.


Question: How does controlling your diabetes help with the disease?

Answer: Diabetes makes you more likely to get a wide range of skin problems. Strive for a healthy weight, eat right, cut back on salt, maintain a healthy blood pressure, and exercise. That's a tall order, but talk to your health care team for support. If you have diabetic nerve damage, which is called neuropathy, you could have an infected cut, scratch, or skin puncture and not know it.


Question: What eye problems does juvenile arthritis cause?

Answer: A child who has juvenile arthritis may develop problems with her eyes. The problems may be caused by the disease or by medications the child takes for the disease. The most common eye problem is inflammation in a part of the eye called the uvea. Doctors call this condition âuveitis.â If it affects specific parts of the uvea, it may also be called iritis or iridocyclitis.


Question: What's the treatment for eye problems linked to juvenile arthritis?

Answer: Your rheumatologist and ophthalmologist will work with you on this. If your child has uveitis, she might need prescription eyedrops. Some of these eyedrops dilate the eyes in order to keep the pupils open and help to prevent scars. Your child might also be prescribed steroid eyedrops. For example, your child might use cortisone drops to curb swelling and lower inflammation. Long-term use of steroid eyedrops can have serious side effects, including glaucoma and cataracts. If eyedrops don't lower inflammation enough, your child might need to take anti-inflammatory pills. To avoid long-term side effects of steroid medications, your child might also get a drug such as methotrexate, which they would take by mouth or as a shot. Severe cases of uveitis may need different kinds of drugs that treat immune system conditions.


Question: Should I take my child to a rheumatologist?

Answer: In order to find eye problems early and prevent them from causing damage, your rheumatologist (a doctor who specializes in treating arthritis) will schedule frequent appointments with a pediatric ophthalmologist. That's a medical doctor who specializes in children's eye diseases.


Question: How often should my child have eye exams?

Answer: That depends on what type of juvenile arthritis she has, how long she has had it, and what medications she takes. Ask your rheumatologist for the schedule.


Question: How can I tell if my child is developing problems related to juvenile arthritis?

Answer: Eye inflammation may not be painful. And the eyes are not usually as red as they are in conjunctivitis. So many children with juvenile arthritis who develop eye problems may not have any obvious symptoms. It's rare, but a child might complain of blurred vision or of light bothering her eyes. Sometimes, a child's eyes might look red or cloudy. But these types of symptoms usually develop so slowly that permanent eye damage can happen before she notices any trouble with seeing.


Question: Will my doctor give my child a visual field test to check for juvenile arthritis?

Answer: The doctor might also give your child a âvisual fieldâ test to check for any vision changes. This type of exam measures peripheral vision, meaning how far your child can see to the side when she focuses her gaze on a central point. You should carefully follow the medicine guidelines that your child's doctor provided. Keep all appointments with the rheumatologist and the ophthalmologist.


Question: What will happen during my child's appointment with an ophthalmologist?

Answer: Tell the ophthalmologist about the medicines that your child takes. You can get the names of the medicines, the dosages, and the reasons they have been prescribed from your rheumatologist. During the eye exam, the ophthalmologist will put drops in your child's eyes to make the pupils dilate. The drops may burn a little, but it helps the doctor get a clear view inside the eyes.


Question: Can uveitis start before a child gets diagnosed with juvenile arthritis?

Answer: It can also cause vision problems, such as: Glaucoma, a condition that causes high pressure in the eye Cataracts, a clouding of the lens of the eye Permanent vision damage, including blindness Uveitis can start up to 1 year before your child gets a diagnosis of juvenile arthritis. Or it could happen at the same time, or years later. It can even happen years after juvenile arthritis is in remission, which means that the disease is not active.


Question: Is uveitis more common in some children than in others?

Answer: Juvenile arthritis, also called juvenile rheumatoid arthritis or childhood arthritis, is the most common type of arthritis to affect children. A child with this type of juvenile arthritis might need to get her eyes checked every 3 to 4 months. In general, children with polyarthritis need an eye exam every 6 months. Children with systemic juvenile arthritis usually need an examination every 12 months.


Question: How will the ophthalmologist diagnose inflammation of my child's eye?

Answer: The most common eye problem is inflammation in a part of the eye called the uvea. The drops may burn a little, but it helps the doctor get a clear view inside the eyes.


Question: What is juvenile arthritis?

Answer: It's can affect many parts of the body, including the eyes. The most common eye problem is inflammation in a part of the eye called the uvea.


Question: How can chronic migraines affect you?

Answer: Because of that, chronic migraines can take a toll on your personal life. If you get painful headaches for half of each month, you lose days of work or school and precious time with friends and family. It's common for people with chronic migraines to also have depression.


Question: What causes migraines and chronic migraines?

Answer: Doctors are learning more about what brings on these headaches, which often run in families. Some are the result of a changes in your brain chemicals. Abnormal brain activity is also involved. Every person who has migraines has different triggers, but common ones include a lack of sleep, caffeine, and being under stress. Most people who get chronic migraines are women. This may be because hormone changes are another well-known cause. These shifts happen around your monthly period, as well as during pregnancy and through menopause. Birth control can also play a role.


Question: What are chronic migraines?

Answer: But if you have the condition chronic migraine, you get headaches much more often -- at least 15 days a month. These frequent and severe attacks can make living a normal life a challenge. Most people who get chronic migraines are women.


Question: What is psychological abuse as it relates to elder abuse?

Answer: They include: Torn or bloody clothes, especially underwear Sexually transmitted diseases Bruises, especially on both sides of the body or around the breasts or genitals Bleeding from the vagina or bottom Psychological abuse is any action that hurts a person emotionally. It can happen when someone threatens him, yells at him, calls him names or talks down to him, ignores him over and over, and controls what he does, who he sees, and where he goes.


Question: What should you do if you see signs of elder abuse?

Answer: First, try talking privately with the person you suspect is in trouble. You can start by saying you think something is wrong and you want to help. If he won't answer your questions, it's possible that he is being abused. If he tells you someone's hurting him or you suspect he's in immediate danger, call 911. If the problem isn't urgent, contact Adult Protective Services in the state where he lives. You don't need proof of the abuse to make the call. The agency will send someone to the person's home to check out the report and, if necessary, take steps to make sure he's safe.


Question: What are signs of psychological abuse in relation to elder abuse?

Answer: Watch for signs of this kind of abuse in your loved one's actions or his relationships with you and others. He might: Act withdrawn or frightened Have changes in his behavior that you can't explain Rock back and forth, suck, or mumble to himself Be depressed, confused, or lose interest in things he enjoyed Have trouble sleeping Financial abuse is when an older person's money or property are threatened.


Question: What is physical abuse as it relates to elder abuse?

Answer: It can happen in different ways: Physical abuse is any action that causes injury or bodily harm. It can include hitting, shoving, kicking, or burning an older person, tying him to a bed or wheelchair, locking him in a room, or giving him drugs his doctor hasn't prescribed.


Question: What are signs of financial abuse in relation to elder abuse?

Answer: Signs may include: Withdrawals from bank accounts that your loved one can't explain A new "friend" who may be taking financial advantage of him Legal documents that have been changed or disappeared Missing financial statements Unpaid bills, utilities that are shut off, or threats of eviction Signatures that seem to be forged Neglect happens when caregivers don't tend to an older person's needs.


Question: What are physical signs of sexual abuse in relation to elder abuse?

Answer: There may be physical signs as well as those you can't see. They include: Torn or bloody clothes, especially underwear Sexually transmitted diseases Bruises, especially on both sides of the body or around the breasts or genitals Bleeding from the vagina or bottom Psychological abuse is any action that hurts a person emotionally.


Question: What is neglect as it relates to elder abuse?

Answer: Signs may include: Withdrawals from bank accounts that your loved one can't explain A new "friend" who may be taking financial advantage of him Legal documents that have been changed or disappeared Missing financial statements Unpaid bills, utilities that are shut off, or threats of eviction Signatures that seem to be forged Neglect happens when caregivers don't tend to an older person's needs. It can mean not giving him enough food, water, clothing, housing, and medications or not helping him bathe, dress, or pay the bills. Abandoning the person completely is also a type of abuse. Sometimes a caregiver knows he's neglecting the person, but others may not know they're doing anything wrong.


Question: What are signs of neglect in relation to elder abuse?

Answer: He might: Act withdrawn or frightened Have changes in his behavior that you can't explain Rock back and forth, suck, or mumble to himself Be depressed, confused, or lose interest in things he enjoyed Have trouble sleeping Financial abuse is when an older person's money or property are threatened. He loses weight suddenly or isn't hungry anymore. Bedsores Missing or broken dentures, eyeglasses, hearing aids, or walkers If you see any of these signs in a loved one, friend, or neighbor, speak up right away. If he tells you someone's hurting him or you suspect he's in immediate danger, call 911.


Question: How can visualization help me reduce stress around symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: It's like taking a mental vacation to distract you from your worries and pain. Imagine yourself in a place you find calm and relaxing. Maybe it's in a boat on a mountain lake. Feel the warm sun on your face. Dip your toes in the water. Listen to the birds chirp. Smell the mountain air. Go back to that place every time you feel stressed or when symptoms bother you.


Question: Can I reduce stress around unpredictable symptoms of my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Remember to follow your doctor's instructions exactly when taking any medication for your IBS- D. Unpredictable symptoms can leave you stressed and anxious, which can lead to more problems. But when you learn ways to worry less, that can break the circle.


Question: How can mindfulness meditation help me reduce stress around symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: This can calm your mind, ease stress, and help manage pain. It's taught in a class or group session. You'll learn breathing, visualization, and relaxation techniques to lessen your stress. The main goal here is to help you focus on the present instead of worrying about the past or future.


Question: How can psychodynamic therapy help me reduce stress around symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Psychodynamic therapy looks at how your emotions affect your symptoms. Often you're taught ways to help you relax.


Question: Are there medications that can help my irritable bowl syndrome (IBS) feel better?

Answer: If your doctor prescribes these, you may wonder how they could help you.


Question: Should I follow my doctor's instructions for taking medications for my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Remember to follow your doctor's instructions exactly when taking any medication for your IBS- D. Unpredictable symptoms can leave you stressed and anxious, which can lead to more problems.


Question: What is eluxadoline and how can it help treat my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Eluxadoline ( Viberzi) works in your digestive system to lessen bowel contractions and slow the motion in your intestines. You take it twice a day with food. It works best if you take it regularly for as long as your doctor feels is needed.


Question: How can hypnosis help me reduce stress around symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: This puts you in a different state of awareness and uses the power of suggestion to help you feel better. The hypnotist may use calm imagery to help relax the muscles in your gut.


Question: What medications can I take to help cramping that comes from my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: You might hear your doctor call these "anticholinergic and antispasmodic drugs." She's talking about prescription meds like dicyclomine ( Bentyl) and hyoscyamine ( Levsin), which lessen bad cramping and unusual colon contractions. They may help more if you take them before you have symptoms. For instance, if you usually have pain or diarrhea after eating, it's probably better to take them before a meal.


Question: What are ways to calm down my symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: There's evidence that two may calm your symptoms: Peppermint oil.


Question: How can low-dose antidepressants help treat my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: If your doctor prescribes these, you may wonder how they could help you. Some may work because they weaken pain signals your gut sends to your brain. They can also improve diarrhea by slowing the flow of food through your stomach and intestines.


Question: How can anti-anxiety drugs help my irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Your doctor might prescribe these if anxiety triggers your symptoms. Clonazepam ( Klonopin), diazepam ( Valium), and lorazepam ( Ativan) can help take the edge off. Usually they're not used for a long time because of the risk of addiction.


Question: Will dietary supplements help calm my symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: Often you're taught ways to help you relax. There's evidence that two may calm your symptoms: Peppermint oil. Look for enteric-coated capsules. They dissolve in the intestines instead of in the stomach. They're live microscopic organisms like those that live in your digestive tract. Some probiotics may improve belly pain, bloating, and gas. Talk to your doctor if you want to give it a try. Also tell your doctor if you want to take any supplement.


Question: When should I introduce finger foods to my baby?

Answer: Once your baby is a pro at eating soft mashed foods, he may be ready to move on to finger foods around 8 months. He has the dexterity to pick the food up and release it, but will become more efficient and independent as he masters the pincer grip around 9 months. At that point he'll be able to use his thumb and forefinger to pick up the small chunks of food.


Question: What should I expect in my baby's 8th month?

Answer: You may notice these growing signs of motor development: Your baby is probably now able to sit on his own for several minutes, without using his hands for support and he may be able to get up into a sitting position all by himself. While you offer him support, he should be able to bounce up and down, and possibly even pull up to a stand. His little hands are increasingly agile -- he's getting better at passing a toy back and forth from one to the other.


Question: Are cold compresses good for shingles?

Answer: Cold compresses: Run a washcloth under cool water and place it on your blisters for about 20 minutes at a time. Not only can this relieve itching, it also keeps your blisters clean. That helps you avoid a skin infection. A couple of important notes: If your blisters aren't oozing anymore, stop using cold compresses If you are using any creams or patches on your rash, don't use compresses at the same time 3.


Question: Is it OK to exercise when you have shingles?

Answer: To give it the right support, you can: Eat nutritious food and have regular meals. Ask someone to make a run to the grocery store for fresh fruit and such if you're not up for it. Try to get a good night's sleep and rest anytime you need to. Do gentle exercises, such as walking or stretching. Light activity can help take your mind off the pain. Keep it simple though, and check with your doctor if you're trying something new.


Question: What can you do to relieve shingles symptoms?

Answer: You can't make an outbreak of shingles go away any faster, but you can do a lot of things on your own to make yourself more comfortable. Calamine lotion: Treat your skin with this smooth, cool, and soothing balm.


Question: What are foods to avoid when managing osteoporosis?

Answer: Don't get too much phosphorus from your diet, because it can promote bone loss. High-phosphorus foods include red meats, soft drinks, and those with phosphate food additives. Also, don't drink too much alcohol or get too much caffeine. They cut down on how much calcium your body absorbs. To help keep estrogen levels from dropping sharply after menopause, and thus help prevent osteoporosis, some health care professionals tell postmenopausal women to eat more foods that have plant estrogens, especially tofu, soybean milk, and other soy products. However, there is no proof that these foods help prevent or delay osteoporosis.


Question: How can hormone replacement therapy help manage osteoporosis?

Answer: Menopausal hormone replacement therapy -- either estrogen alone or a combination of estrogen and progestin -- is known to help preserve bone and prevent fractures. The drug Duavee (estrogen and bazedoxifene) is a type of HRT approved to treat menopause-related hot flashes. It may also prevent osteoporosis in high-risk women who have already tried treatment that doesn't include estrogen. But doctors don't prescribe hormone replacement therapy to only prevent osteoporosis, due to potential health risks. In women who have been on hormone replacement therapy in the past and then stopped it, their bones start to thin again, at the same pace as during menopause.


Question: How can calcium and vitamin D help osteoporosis?

Answer: Food sources of calcium include nonfat milk, low-fat yogurt, plant-based milks or orange juices that are fortified with calcium, broccoli, cauliflower, salmon, tofu, and leafy green vegetables. Get 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day if you're age 19-50. You need 1,200 milligrams per day if you're a woman age 51 or older, or a man age 71 and older. It's best to get your calcium from foods. If you want to take supplements, talk to your doctor first. She can check that it won't make it harder for your body to use any other medicines you take. Your doctor can also tell you if you need to take calcium supplements at a different time than your other medications. To help the body absorb calcium from either food or supplements, doctors recommend vitamin D. Get 600 international units ( IU) per day up to age 71, and then bump it up to 800 IU daily. You can get vitamin D from fortified foods and also from sunshine. But it gets harder to make vitamin D as you get older and during winter. Supplements help. Just don't take too much, or it could cause health problems. If you're very low on vitamin D, your doctor may give you a prescription for it. There are some other easy ways to get more calcium at home. For instance, you can add nonfat dry milk to everyday foods and beverages, including soups, stews, and casseroles. Each cup of dry milk adds about a third of the calcium you need each day. When you do this regularly, this helps your bone density, so your bones are stronger.