Question: What is white matter disease?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } White matter disease is the wearing away of tissue in the largest and deepest part of your brain due to aging. The signals that help you do these things can't get through. White matter helps you problem-solve and focus.


Question: How is white matter disease diagnosed?

Answer: White matter disease happens in older or elderly people. You may need more tests to rule out other causes. The goal is to treat the cause of the damage and stop the disease from getting worse. That can lead to white matter changes.


Question: What are balance and coordination exercises you can do following an ankle sprain?

Answer: You can also try these exercises: Step-ups. Do this one near a chair, table, or in a doorway so you'll have support if you need it. Stand and balance on just your injured leg for 30 seconds. Repeat 3 times a day. Try to work up to 3 minutes. To make it harder, close your eyes. Heel walk. Walk forward and backward as far as you can on your heels. Tippy toe walk. Walk forward and backward as far as you can on your toes.


Question: How do I do inward and outward bends to strengthen my ankle after a sprain?

Answer: Sit in a chair, feet together and flat on the floor, so your big toes and heels touch. Turn your injured foot inward while resisting with your other foot. Hold 5 to 10 seconds. Now, you'll move your foot outward. Use a nearby wall or even a couch to provide resistance. Hold for 5 to 10 seconds. Repeat 5 to 10 times.


Question: What should you do before you go to the doctor for stitches?

Answer: You'll likely need stitches if the wound: Bleeds enough to soak through a bandage Keeps bleeding even after you apply direct pressure for 5 to 10 minutes Spurts blood What caused it? If you have an object, such as a nail, stuck through your skin, leave it there. It may keep the bleeding from getting worse. Don't eat or drink. Apply pressure. Use a clean towel or bandage to apply direct pressure to the wound. Clean the wound. Put a clean bandage over it.


Question: When do schizophrenia symptoms usually start?

Answer: On average, men are diagnosed in their late teens to early 20s. Late-onset schizophrenia is diagnosed after the person is 45.


Question: Why does schizophrenia usually show up in late adolescence?

Answer: These shifts might trigger the disease in people who are at risk for it. Some scientists believe it has to do with development in an area of the brain called the frontal cortex. Others think it has to do with too many connections between nerve cells being eliminated as the brain matures. Hormones also play a major role in puberty. One theory is that women get schizophrenia later than men because they go through puberty earlier and the hormone estrogen might somehow protect them. Another issue is that many of the changes leading up to schizophrenia, called the prodome, can mirror other normal life changes.


Question: Why is schizophrenia hard to diagnose?

Answer: Schizophrenia can be hard to diagnose for a few reasons. One is that people with the disorder often don't realize they're ill, so they're unlikely to go to a doctor for help. Another issue is that many of the changes leading up to schizophrenia, called the prodome, can mirror other normal life changes. For example, a teen who's developing the illness might drop his group of friends and take up with new ones. He may also have trouble sleeping or suddenly start coming home with poor grades. Once you have full-blown schizophrenia, the symptoms are much more severe.


Question: Should I pace myself to help treat fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Pace yourself. Alternate sitting and standing. Audiotapes that teach deep breathing or visualization can help reduce stress.


Question: Should I prioritize my activities to help deal with fatigue from multiple sclerosis?

Answer: MS-related fatigue tends to get worse as the day goes on, is often aggravated by heat and humidity, and comes on more easily and suddenly than normal fatigue. Note what you think may be contributing factors.


Question: How can I treat golfer's elbow?

Answer: Apply ice to your elbow for 15-20 minutes three to four times per day. Conservative treatments usually work for golfer's elbow. But if you're still having pain after three to six months, you may need surgery.


Question: How can I relieve congestion at night?

Answer: Steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages and may help you relax. If the angle is too awkward, try placing the pillows between the mattress and the box springs to create a more gradual slope.


Question: What's the best way to gargle for a sore throat?

Answer: A decongestant, like Sudafed, restricts flow to the blood vessels in your nose and throat. Here's a popular recipe: Mix 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water. Let the mixture cool to room temperature before gargling. Add one teaspoon of honey and one small shot (about 1 ounce) of whiskey or bourbon.


Question: What is the cure rate in most cases of chlamydia?

Answer: Pregnant women should also be tested as part of their routine lab work. Women with serious infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, may require a longer course of antibiotics or hospitalization for intravenous antibiotics.


Question: What are the treatments for chlamydia?

Answer: In most cases of chlamydia, the cure rate is 95%. If you are diagnosed with chlamydia, your doctor will prescribe oral antibiotics. A single dose of azithromycin or taking doxycycline twice daily for 7 to 14 days are the most common treatments and are the same for those with or without HIV. With treatment, the infection should clear up in about a week. Do not have sex for at least 7 days until you have taken all of your medication, and do not stop taking the antibiotics even if you feel better. Your doctor will also recommend that your partner(s) be treated as well to prevent reinfection and further spread of the disease.


Question: What causes prion diseases?

Answer: But like Alzheimer's, there is no cure for prion diseases. Most people get prion diseases like CJD for no apparent reason. It's possible to get VCJD if you eat beef infected with bovine spongiform encephalopathy, or mad cow disease. When mad cow disease broke out in cattle in Europe in the 1990s, a small number of people developed VCJD and died. Four people also got VCJD from blood transfusions when the donor was infected.


Question: How do doctors diagnose prion disease?

Answer: If you have symptoms like dementia, your doctor might first rule out other possible causes. The following tests may show if your symptoms are caused by a stroke, brain tumor, or inflammation: Spinal tap (also called lumbar puncture): A doctor puts a needle between two of your vertebrae (bones in your back) to take a sample of the fluid around your brain and spinal cord. But this is a dangerous operation, so it's only done if your doctor thinks you might have another disorder that could be treated differently.


Question: What is a male condom?

Answer: A condom is a thin, fitted tube that a man wears over his penis during sex or a woman inserts into her vagina before sex. There are many types of male condoms, including: Latex, plastic, or lambskin.


Question: What are symptoms of panic attacks?

Answer: Your heart begins to pound and you hyperventilate, sweat, and tremble. Usually, a panic attack comes with a few of these: A sense of approaching danger Quick, intense, heartbeat Nausea Chills Cramps in your belly Headache Numbness or tingling Shortness of breath Throat tightness Trembling Hot flashes A feeling that you're apart from reality If you feel like you're having a panic attack, see you doctor right away.


Question: What can low pressure in your eyes cause?

Answer: Low pressure. Others can see just fine with it.


Question: What is the single most important thing that predicts diabetes?

Answer: There are people who aren't overweight who have type 2 diabetes. The study results showed that over 16 years, regular exercise -- at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week -- and a low-fat, high-fiber diet helped prevent it.


Question: Is there medication you can take if you have prediabetes to prevent type 2 diabetes?

Answer: If you're at high risk for the disease, your doctor may recommend taking medication to hold it off. Several studies show that various types of diabetes drugs, along with a healthy lifestyle, can cut the odds that you'll get it One study showed that people most likely to get it could lower their odds by 31%. They took the prescription diabetes drug metformin and made lifestyle and diet changes. You'll need to work with a dietitian to come up with a meal plan and talk to a trainer about how to get more exercise.


Question: My doctor just told me I have prediabetes. What does this mean?

Answer: There are plenty of things you can do to try to prevent it. Focus on the things you can change, like your diet and how active you are. That's good.


Question: What is the treatment for mitral valve prolapse?

Answer: Most people with mitral valve prolapse have no symptoms. People who develop severe mitral regurgitation due to mitral valve prolapse often can benefit from surgery to repair or replace the leaky valve. For people with symptoms of congestive heart failure caused by mitral valve prolapse with mitral regurgitation, surgery is usually the best treatment.


Question: What is mitral valve prolapse?

Answer: Most cases of mitral valve prolapse are not serious and only need to be monitored. Mitral valve prolapse is the most common cause of mitral regurgitation.


Question: What types of therapy can help kids with autism communicate better?

Answer: They find it hard to make eye contact. Younger kids start with behavior therapy, and the doctor may prescribe medication if symptoms don't improve enough.


Question: What should parents do if they think their child has ADHD or autism?

Answer: And you can have both. You can start with your pediatrician, who may refer you to a specialist. There's no one-size-fits-all way to deal with ADHD.


Question: What is the difference between autism and ADHD?

Answer: And you can have both. There's no one-size-fits-all way to deal with ADHD.


Question: What is the best way to protect yourself from the flu?

Answer: The flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself from the influenza virus. The flu shot becomes effective about 2 weeks after you get it. Some people should make sure it's OK to get vaccinated.


Question: What happens to your airways during an asthma attack?

Answer: Asthma is associated with inflammation of the lower airways inside your lungs called the bronchial tubes. During normal breathing, the bands of muscle that surround the airways are relaxed. During an asthma attack, three main changes occur that stop air from moving easily through the airways: The bands of muscle that surround the airways tighten. This tightening is called bronchospasm. The cells that line the airways produce more mucus, which is thicker than normal. Call your doctor if you experience any of these signs: Fever (with a temperature over 101 ° F) or chills Increased fatigue or weakness A very sore throat or pain when swallowing Sinus headaches, upper toothaches, or tenderness or pain of the upper cheekbones Coughing up greater amounts of yellow- or green-colored mucus Difficulty swallowing your saliva Also call your doctor if you have any other symptoms that cause concern, such as the following: Increased shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or wheezing Symptoms getting worse or remaining unchanged after seven days Symptoms remaining unchanged or getting worse after 10 days Eye pain or swelling and/or vision changes Severe head or facial pain or swelling Neck stiffness or sensitivity to light Good hygiene can decrease viral infections such as colds.


Question: How can an asthma action plan help you manage asthma and colds?

Answer: If you have asthma, catching a cold may worsen or trigger your symptoms. It may also include adding a prevention inhaler (like a steroid inhaler) when you get a cold even if you aren't having asthma symptoms yet. Your plan will specify when symptoms warrant a call to your doctor.


Question: How can coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) help when you have atrial fibrillation (AFib)?

Answer: But if you take digoxin to help control your heart rate, magnesium supplements may interfere with how it gets absorbed by your body so the medicine won't work as well. Co Q10 levels go down as you get older. It may be low in people with heart problems. If you're on the blood thinner warfarin, you probably already know that supplements (and food) with vitamin K may make the medicine not work as well.


Question: How can fish oil help when you have atrial fibrillation (AFib)?

Answer: It may also help lower high blood pressure. The jury is out on whether the omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil supplements are linked to a lower chance of AFib. The best way to get omega-3s is to eat at least two servings of fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, or tuna every week.


Question: How does Crohn's disease affect the bowel?

Answer: Crohn's disease is part of a group of diseases known as inflammatory bowel disease ( IBD). Symptoms: Nausea Weight loss Loss of appetite Vomiting (if narrow segments of bowel are obstructed) This type of the disease causes areas of inflammation in the jejunum, which is the middle part of your small intestine.


Question: What does Crohn's disease affect?

Answer: It affects the small intestine, known as the ileum, and the colon. This form affects the stomach and duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine.


Question: What can I do to manage Crohn's disease?

Answer: Sometimes more than one area of your digestive tract is affected. This makes the walls thicker and can form strictures, or narrowed areas, that lead to blockages. Penetrating: Crohn's causes fistulas, perianal ulcers, inflammatory masses, or abscesses Uncomplicated It is very important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, even when your disease goes into remission for long periods of time. You should: Exercise regularly. Avoid smoking.


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

Answer: There are five types of Crohn's disease, each with its own set of symptoms. Sometimes more than one area of your digestive tract is affected. For Crohn's, these are based on: Your age when you were diagnosed: Child Young adult Elderly The affected body part: Terminal ileum Colon Ileocolon Upper gastrointestinal tract How the disease behaves: Stricturing: The disease causes swelling and scarring on the walls of your intestine.


Question: What foods should I eat if I have rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: You need regular blood tests to see how you're doing and spot possible side effects of your treatment. You'll find it in: Leafy vegetables Beans Whole grains You can also take it as a supplement. Make sure you get enough calcium and vitamin D, too. Load up on omega-3 fatty acids, which are in things like salmon and tuna. These good fats can help your body fight inflammation. Choose fish twice a week, or take a fish oil supplement.


Question: What do you need to know about skin allergies?

Answer: Your allergist has the final call, but it's possible you've got a skin allergy. A bunch of things can cause an allergic reaction when you brush up against them. Whether your allergy trigger is a plant like poison ivy or a chemical in your makeup, your best defense is to keep your distance. If you're allergic to nickel in something you eat, you'll get bumps on the sides of your fingers, called dyshidrotic hand eczema or pompholyx.


Question: How can clothing cause skin allergies?

Answer: The sap from rubber trees is mixed with a chemical and used to make products like: Rubber gloves Condoms Erasers Elastic waistbands and bras Balloons Your allergy might be mild, like a rash on your hands when you take off gloves, or it could be life-threatening. A rash on your trunk after you wear a shirt, or on your feet when you wear certain shoes or socks, could be from an allergy. You may also need to switch to cotton or organic cotton blends. you may want to avoid wool or mohair.


Question: How can medications cause skin allergies?

Answer: A severe reaction, called anaphylaxis, might quickly spread throughout your body and make it hard to breathe. Look for these drugs on labels for products that treat cuts, scrapes, burns, itching, insect bites and stings, cold sores, toothaches, and earaches, as well as cough drops: Bacitracin Benzocaine Hydrocortisone Neomycin You may get a rash or hives if you've used certain products or combinations of them on your skin, and then go outside in the sun or use a tanning bed.


Question: How can symptoms of asthma vary?

Answer: The narrowed airway makes it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. As a result, people with asthma feel they cannot get enough air. Common symptoms of asthma include: Frequent cough, especially at night Shortness of breath Wheezing Chest tightness, pain, or pressure Not every person with asthma has the same symptoms in the same way. Mild asthma episodes are generally more common. Usually, the airways open up within a few minutes to a few hours. Severe episodes are less common, but last longer and require immediate medical help. It is important to recognize and treat even mild symptoms to help prevent severe episodes and keep asthma in control.


Question: What are asthma triggers?

Answer: The narrowed airway makes it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. You may not have all of these asthma symptoms, or you may have different symptoms at different times. The airways in a person with asthma are very sensitive and react to many things, which are referred to as "triggers." Coming into contact with these triggers often produces asthma symptoms. Some people have many triggers while others have none that they can identify.


Question: What is the treatment for asthma?

Answer: The narrowed airway makes it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. It is important to recognize and treat even mild symptoms to help prevent severe episodes and keep asthma in control. By avoiding asthma triggers, taking medication, and carefully monitoring daily asthma symptoms, asthma attacks can be avoided or at least limited. Drugs used to treat asthma include bronchodilators, anti-inflammatories, leukotriene modifiers and immunomodulators. Leukotriene modifiers may interact with other drugs, like Coumadin and theophylline.


Question: How can leukotriene modifiers treat asthma?

Answer: You may not have all of these asthma symptoms, or you may have different symptoms at different times. Mild asthma episodes are generally more common. Leukotriene modifiers used for asthma treatment include the drugs Accolate, Singulair, and Zyflo. Leukotrienes are chemicals that occur naturally in our bodies and cause tightening of airway muscles and production of mucus and fluid. Leukotriene modifiers work by limiting these reactions, improving airflow and reducing asthma symptoms.


Question: What are common asthma triggers?

Answer: You may not have all of these asthma symptoms, or you may have different symptoms at different times. The airways in a person with asthma are very sensitive and react to many things, which are referred to as "triggers." Common asthma triggers include: Infections: colds, flu, sinus infections Exercise: very common in children* Weather: cold air, changes in temperature Tobacco smoke and air pollution Allergens: substances that cause allergic reactions in the lungs, including dust mites, pollens, pets, mold spores, foods, and cockroaches Dust or items causing dust Strong odors from chemical products Strong emotions: anxiety, and crying, yelling, or laughing hard Medicines: aspirin, ibuprofen, and beta blocker drugs used to treat conditions including high blood pressure, migraines, or glaucoma * Note: While exertion may be an asthma trigger, exercise should not be avoided.


Question: Which anti-inflammatory drugs can treat asthma?

Answer: These asthma drugs, which include inhaled corticosteroids such as Alvesco, Arnuity Ellipta, Asmanex, Azmacort, Flovent, Qvar, and Pulmicort, reduce swelling and mucus production in the airways. As a result, airways are less sensitive and less likely to react to triggers. If taken every day, they can control or prevent asthma symptoms. Another type of anti-inflammatory asthma drug is cromolyn sodium. This medication is a mast cell stabilizer, which means that it helps prevent the release of asthma-inducing chemicals from cells in the body known as mast cells.


Question: What is allergic asthma?

Answer: Asthma is a disease of the branches of the windpipe (bronchial tubes), which carry air in and out of the lungs. Allergic asthma is a type of asthma that is triggered by an allergy (for example, pollen or mold spores). The narrowed airway makes it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. As a result, people with asthma feel they cannot get enough air.


Question: What are the early warning signs of an asthma attack?

Answer: The narrowed airway makes it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. As a result, people with asthma feel they cannot get enough air. Early warning signs and symptoms of an asthma attack include: Frequent cough, especially at night Losing your breath easily or shortness of breath Feeling very tired or weak when exercising, in addition to wheezing, coughing, or shortness of breath Decreases or changes in peak expiratory flow, a measurement of how fast air comes out of the lungs when you exhale forcefully Signs of a cold or other upper respiratory infections, or allergies Difficulty sleeping If you have any of these asthma symptoms, seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent experiencing a severe asthma attack.


Question: What are the most common symptoms of asthma?

Answer: The narrowed airway makes it more difficult for air to move in and out of the lungs. As a result, people with asthma feel they cannot get enough air. Common symptoms of asthma include: Frequent cough, especially at night Shortness of breath Wheezing Chest tightness, pain, or pressure Not every person with asthma has the same symptoms in the same way.


Question: How can whole-wheat bread help with losing pregnancy weight for new moms?

Answer: DHA is crucial to the development of your baby's nervous system. Folic acid is an important nutrient in your breast milk that your baby needs for good health, and it's crucial you eat enough for your own well-being, too. Enriched whole-grain breads and pastas are fortified with it, and also give you a healthy dose of fiber and iron.


Question: How can oranges help with losing pregnancy weight for new moms?

Answer: Iron-rich beans, particularly dark-colored ones like black beans and kidney beans, are a great breastfeeding food, especially for vegetarians. Oranges and other citrus fruits are excellent breastfeeding foods, since nursing moms need more vitamin C than pregnant women.


Question: How can drinking water help with losing pregnancy weight for new moms?

Answer: Iron-rich beans, particularly dark-colored ones like black beans and kidney beans, are a great breastfeeding food, especially for vegetarians. Mix healthy, whole-grain carbs like brown rice into your diet to keep your energy levels up. You can vary your options and meet some of your fluid requirements by drinking juice and milk. But be careful when it comes to caffeinated drinks like coffee or tea. Have no more than 2-3 cups a day, or switch to decaf. Caffeine enters your breast milk and can cause your baby to become irritable and sleep poorly.


Question: What can help with losing pregnancy weight for new moms?

Answer: If you're breastfeeding, your milk is loaded with calcium to help your baby's bones develop, so it's important for you to eat enough calcium to meet your own needs. Boost your energy as a new mom with iron-rich foods like lean beef. Lean beef is an excellent source for both. Foods like brown rice provide your body the calories it needs to make the best-quality milk for your baby. To keep your energy levels and milk production up, make sure you stay well-hydrated.


Question: How can whole-grain cereal help with losing pregnancy weight for new moms?

Answer: Milk delivers a boost of bone-strengthening vitamin D. In addition to providing protein and B vitamins, dairy products are one of the best sources of calcium. Many cold cereals are fortified with essential vitamins and nutrients to help you meet your daily needs. Whip up a healthy, hot breakfast by stirring blueberries and skim milk into a delicious serving of oatmeal.


Question: How many sessions of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) are required in treating depression?

Answer: For some people with severe or hard-to-treat depression, electroconvulsive therapy ( ECT) is the best treatment. Studies have shown that ECT works for many people who have treatment-resistant depression.


Question: How can I prevent nosebleeds?

Answer: You can't always prevent nosebleeds from happening, but there are certain things you can do to help lower your chances of getting them: Keep the inside of your nose moist. Dryness can cause nosebleeds. Use a cotton swab to gently smear a thin layer petroleum jelly in your nostrils three times a day, including before you go to sleep. You can also use an antibiotic ointment like Bacitracin or Polysporin. Use a saline nasal product. Spraying it in your nostrils helps keep the inside of your nose moist. Use a humidifier. Your nostrils might be dry because the air in your house is dry. Don't smoke. Also, don't blow or rub it too hard. If your child is getting nosebleeds, keep his fingernails short and discourage him from picking his nose. Don't use cold and allergy medications too often. These can dry out your nose. In some cases, certain medications can cause nosebleeds or make them worse. You may need to discuss your medications with your doctor.


Question: How do you treat fungal meningitis?

Answer: Viral meningitis is usually much less severe than other types. If your teen has fungal meningitis, he'll get antifungal medications in the hospital that can fight this rare type of infection. He'll also need to get liquids to prevent dehydration and drugs to control pain and fever.


Question: How do you test for meningitis?

Answer: It's a key way to get a diagnosis. Your teen's doctor may also need to get samples of his blood or urine. The bacterial form of meningitis can be life-threatening and needs to be treated quickly. Your teen will likely stay in a hospital to get antibiotics put into his veins through an IV until the doctor gets the results of a spinal tap.


Question: How do I treat a minor cut or scratch around my child's eye?

Answer: Hold gauze on the wound for 10 minutes. Cover the eye with a cloth for protection, and wash the area with clean water for a few minutes. Ask your pediatrician whether you should use antibiotic ointment if the wound is close to the eye or eyelid. Give child-formula acetaminophen ( Tylenol) or ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin) for pain, if needed. Do not give aspirin to a child who is under age 16.


Question: What should I do if an object is stuck in my child's eye?

Answer: Tape a paper cup over the eye. Do not try to remove the object. Ask your pediatrician whether you should use antibiotic ointment if the wound is close to the eye or eyelid.


Question: What should I do if my child's eye has been exposed to chemicals?

Answer: Hold the child's head over a sink, facing down and to the side, and hold the eye open. If you suspect broken bones, damage to the eye, or a head injury, take the child to the emergency room. Keep the child from rubbing the affected eye. If outside, use whatever water is closest -- water fountain, garden hose. Pour water over the eye for 15 to 20 minutes. If the chemical is in both eyes, rinse them in the shower.


Question: How should I treat my child's bruised or swollen eye?

Answer: But serious eye injuries need immediate medical care. If you suspect broken bones, damage to the eye, or a head injury, take the child to the emergency room. If the black eye was caused by something hitting the eye, call your pediatrician. Put an ice pack on the area for 20 minutes each hour to lessen swelling. Repeat for four hours. Don't press on the eye. After 2 days, switch to a warm cloth on the area for 10 minutes, three times daily. Give child-formula acetaminophen ( Tylenol) or ibuprofen ( Advil) for pain, if needed. Do not give aspirin to a child who is under age 16.


Question: How should I treat my child's minor eye irritation?

Answer: Wash your hands. Keep the child from rubbing the eye. Hold the child's head over a sink, facing down and to the side, and hold the eye open. Gently pour water over the eye for five minutes and see whether the object is out. Repeat up to two more times if the object does not come out of the eye. If the object is still in the eye, put a light bandage over it and take the child to the emergency room. Cover the eye with a cloth for protection, and wash the area with clean water for a few minutes.


Question: How does a parent treat chemical exposure?

Answer: If you suspect broken bones, damage to the eye, or a head injury, take the child to the emergency room. Wash your hands. Keep the child from rubbing the affected eye. Hold the child's head over a sink, facing down and to the side, and hold the eye open. If outside, use whatever water is closest -- water fountain, garden hose. Pour water over the eye for 15 to 20 minutes. If the chemical is in both eyes, rinse them in the shower.


Question: Is there a cure for asthma?

Answer: In fact, it's highly advisable to avoid any treatment or product -- natural or otherwise -- that claims to be a "cure" for asthma. Even though there's no natural cure for asthma, your symptoms can be treated and controlled with several asthma medications.


Question: Which specialists can best work with schizophrenics?

Answer: It helps to know what symptoms to watch for and when you should check with your doctor. A psychiatrist has special training in how to diagnose and treat schizophrenia.


Question: How can you recognize schizophrenia in teens?

Answer: It helps to know what symptoms to watch for and when you should check with your doctor. The diagnosis can be tough news to hear.


Question: Can smoking make primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) worse?

Answer: If swelling is a problem, ask your doctor if you should drink less. It can make many symptoms worse, including fatigue.


Question: How can exercise help you feel better when you have primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)?

Answer: The disease can change your metabolism, too, so you may be eating less because you just don't feel hungry. Primary biliary cholangitis affects your immune system, so you're more likely to get this kind of infection. The dry mouth that comes with PBC can raise your odds of problems like tooth decay.


Question: What drugs are used to treat Felty's syndrome?

Answer: Doctors aren't sure what causes FS. It can cause some side effects, such as nausea and mouth ulcers. You'll also need regular tests to make sure MTX isn't hurting your liver. Other drugs your doctor might advise you to take include glucocorticoids or disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs ( DMARDs) that are used to treat RA, such as abatacept ( Orencia) and leflunomide ( Arava ). Drugs that affect your immune system: Rituximab ( Rituxan) is also a preferred treatment for FS and can shut off the part of your immune system that isn't working as it should. They're given by IV but may take up to a few weeks to work. Drugs that stimulate your white blood cells: Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor ( G- CSF) can help increase the number of white blood cells and help fight infection. Home care: Your doctor will tell you how much physical activity and rest you need. A heating pad may help with mild aches and pains. A nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug ( NSAID) such as ibuprofen can also help. Surgery: If your FS is severe and other treatments don't work, your doctor may recommend that your spleen be taken out. This could return your red and white blood cells to normal levels and may lower your risk of infection for an indefinite amount of time.


Question: Iâve been diagnosed with cancer. What are some tips for coping with the stress associated with that?

Answer: You may find yourself having trouble sleeping at night, your body aches, your head hurts, and you just feel exhausted. Here are some tips that may help, but it is also important to talk to a member of your cancer care team about how you are feeling. Here are some tips for reducing stress: Keep a positive attitude. Accept that there are events you cannot control. Be assertive instead of aggressive. " Learn to relax. Exercise regularly. Eat well-balanced meals. Rest and sleep. Don't rely on alcohol or drugs to reduce stress.


Question: What are advance directives, and what do they include?

Answer: These are special documents that describe your wishes regarding your medical care, and include the following: Living will. This document exercises your right to accept or refuse medical treatment that artificially prolongs your life. This is a document in which you appoint a person to speak on your behalf if you should become incapable of expressing medical treatment preferences. An attorney should create this document so that it conforms to state laws and other legal regulations. In addition, consider writing a will to ensure that those who survive you will know how to carry out your wishes. This document should be prepared with an attorney.


Question: Iâm coping with cancer. Where can I get more support?

Answer: There are many resources available to provide support for cancer patients and their families. Among them are: Patient navigators and Social workers. They can provide education, counseling regarding lifestyle changes, and referrals to community or national agencies and support groups. They can also help your family find temporary lodging, provide information about community resources, and help you with other needs. Individual counseling. They provide an environment in which you can learn new ways of dealing with your illness from others who are facing your same challenges.


Question: What are the three main types of dental bridges?

Answer: A bridge is made up of two or more crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap -- these two or more anchoring teeth are called abutment teeth -- and a false tooth/teeth in between. Traditional bridges are the most common type of bridge and are made of either porcelain fused to metal or ceramics. Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. This is not very common any more and is not recommended in the back of the mouth where it can put too much force on other teeth and damage them. Maryland bonded bridges (also called a resin-bonded bridge or a Maryland bridge) are made of porcelain, porcelain fused to metal, or plastic teeth and gums supported by a metal or porcelain framework. Metal or porcelain wings often on just one side of the bridge are bonded to your existing teeth.


Question: Will the dental bridge change how I speak?

Answer: Cantilever bridges are used when there are adjacent teeth on only one side of the missing tooth or teeth. Wearing a dental bridge with the anterior teeth in their proper relationship will help you speak properly.


Question: Why is it important to talk to your doctor about the side effects of antidepressants?

Answer: In fact, side effects are one of the main reasons that people with depression stop taking their medicine during their recovery. If your medicine upsets your stomach, ask your doctor if you should take it with a meal or if the risk may be less with a brand rather than a generic form of a drug. Don't stop taking your medication on your own if you don't like the side effects. Stopping your medicine suddenly can make your symptoms get worse and cause a relapse of your depression. If your doctor doesn't take your side effects seriously at first, be more clear about needing a plan to address them. Whatever you do, don't ignore side effects. Work with your doctor to resolve them so you have a better chance of recovery from your depression.


Question: How can side effects of antidepressants affect your treatment for depression?

Answer: In fact, side effects are one of the main reasons that people with depression stop taking their medicine during their recovery. Yet it's important to keep in mind that antidepressants can help you recover. The American Psychiatric Association recommends that people keep taking their medicine at least for four to five months after they recover from a first depressive episode -- in order to reduce the risk of relapse. And for people who have had multiple previous episodes, the recommendation is often longer (or sometimes even to continue indefinitely). It helps regulate all three of the brain's monoamine neurotransmitters associated with moods.


Question: What can you do about the side effects of antidepressants?

Answer: Like any medication, antidepressants can cause side effects. You and your doctor should work together to figure out the right balance. Keep in mind that many side effects might be worse when you first start a medicine or when you increase the dose. They may get better as your body adjusts. So if your side effects are mild, your doctor may want you to stick with your depression medicine to see if the side effects go away on their own.


Question: What happens during angioplasty?

Answer: Medication will be given to relax you, then the doctor will numb where the catheter will go with anesthesia. !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Next, a thin plastic tube called a sheath is inserted into an artery -- sometimes in your groin, sometimes in your arm. A long, narrow, hollow tube called a catheter is passed through the sheath and guided up a blood vessel to the arteries surrounding the heart. A small amount of contrast liquid is put into your blood vessel through the catheter. It's photographed with an X-ray as it moves through your heart's chambers, valves, and major vessels.


Question: What should you avoid after an angioplasty?

Answer: You may stay in the hospital overnight for observation. If your catheter was put into the artery at your wrist or arm, your doctor will put a special bandage on to make sure it heals properly. You'll wear this for a couple of hours. The doctor or a nurse will remove it and check to see if your artery has healed enough.


Question: Can angioplasty cure coronary artery disease?

Answer: These are often placed during angioplasty to help keep the coronary artery open. You'll need to take aspirin before the procedure. You'll be given an exercise program to follow. You may need to take one or more medicines, too.


Question: What can I expect before an angioplasty?

Answer: Most people will need a routine blood test and electrocardiogram. Please tell your doctor or nurse if you are taking diuretics (water pills), insulin, or warfarin ( Coumadin). You'll need to take aspirin before the procedure. Make sure to tell your doctor or nurse if you didn't. You should be able to resume your normal stuff after about a week.


Question: What can help your decision on getting a male mastectomy?

Answer: Discuss all your options with your doctor and find out about the benefits and risks of surgery and other treatments before you make a decision. Your medical team will show you how to care for and empty the drains and measure the fluid that comes out.


Question: How common is reconstructive surgery after a male mastectomy?

Answer: Because men have so little breast tissue, doctors usually remove the whole breast. If you have a mastectomy, your doctor can do another surgery afterward to help afterward to help reconstruct the area. Modified radical mastectomy removes the whole breast and nipple and many of the lymph nodes under your arm.


Question: What are the risks of a male mastectomy?

Answer: This is also called breast-conserving surgery. Possible side effects include: Pain Swelling Bleeding Infection Change in the look of your chest Swelling of your arm, called lymphedema (caused by taking out lymph nodes) Trouble moving your arm and shoulder Buildup of blood in the wound, called hematoma Buildup of fluid in the wound, called seroma


Question: How can you treat opioid constipation?

Answer: Constipation, or trouble pooping, is the most common side effect of the pain meds called opioids. Most people who take them will need to also take specific medications to get more regular bowel movements. But some simple habits you can start at home can make a difference, too. Try these tips to get relief. Drink more water. Check your other medications.


Question: When should you call 911 for severe asthma?

Answer: That's often possible when you avoid your triggers, take your medicine, and follow the asthma action plan that you made with your doctor. Don't drive yourself to the hospital. It's not safe.


Question: Can eating too many salty foods lead to a headache or a migraine?

Answer: Eating too many salty foods could also lead to headaches. It's wise to limit the amount of salt you eat around the time of your period. There are a few methods your doctor might suggest.


Question: Are alternative treatments used to treat migraines?

Answer: An over-the-counter pain reliever like acetaminophen should be safe, but check with your doctor before you take it. Biofeedback. Magnesium.


Question: What are reasons my doctor might not want me to take birth control to help treat my migraines?

Answer: If you're prone to hormonal migraines, taking birth control that contains low amounts of estrogen or only progestin may help. Taking it could make you more likely to have a stroke. Other reasons your doctor may not want you to take birth control for your menstrual migraines: A history of smoking High blood pressure Obesity Diabetes If nothing else works, your doctor may prescribe a drug called leuprolide acetate ( Eligard, Lupron Depot).


Question: Why would I not be able to take birth control for my headaches during my period?

Answer: If you're prone to hormonal migraines, taking birth control that contains low amounts of estrogen or only progestin may help. Taking it could make you more likely to have a stroke. Other reasons your doctor may not want you to take birth control for your menstrual migraines: A history of smoking High blood pressure Obesity Diabetes If nothing else works, your doctor may prescribe a drug called leuprolide acetate ( Eligard, Lupron Depot).


Question: How often do I need to get chemotherapy?

Answer: Chemotherapy is a common treatment for all kinds of cancer. Store your drugs properly and take them on schedule. The breaks give the drugs time to do their job. Rest also gives your body time to heal so you can handle side effects like nausea, hair loss, or fatigue. Each set of doses is called a cycle.


Question: What forms of chemotherapy can I get?

Answer: Pills or liquids that you swallow Shots into your muscles or under your skin Infusion directly into an organ or your spine IV infusions into your veins If you take your drugs by pill or liquid at home, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. These are small metal or plastic discs that your nurse places under your skin and connects to a vein.


Question: What kind of cancer is chemotherapy used for?

Answer: Pills or liquids that you swallow Shots into your muscles or under your skin Infusion directly into an organ or your spine IV infusions into your veins If you take your drugs by pill or liquid at home, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Store your drugs properly and take them on schedule. You can have chemotherapy once a week or for several days, then rest for several days or weeks.


Question: Does smoking affect cholesterol levels?

Answer: Yes, there are medications that can help you bring your levels to a healthier range. The carbon monoxide you inhale from cigarettes increases the level of cholesterol that builds up along the walls of your arteries. If you need help to kick the habit, talk to your doctor about medicines or counseling programs that can make it easier.


Question: How important is diet in lowering high cholesterol levels?

Answer: Yes, there are medications that can help you bring your levels to a healthier range. Not only are they low in cholesterol, they're high in fiber. That'll keep things moving through your digestive tract. Fish, nuts, low-fat dairy, and lean poultry are good choices, too. Talk to your doctor about what kinds and how much exercise is right for you.


Question: Does exercise help lower my cholesterol levels?

Answer: The first thing you need to do to improve your health is to change what you put into your body. Physical activity doesn't have much direct effect on your LDL levels, but it does raise HDL as it lowers the amount of fat in your blood called triglycerides. You should try to get a total of 30 minutes of heart-pumping exercise almost every day, like walking, running, swimming, biking, or hitting the elliptical or step machine.


Question: How do some people clean their ears?

Answer: Maybe you're one of those that says you should never even clean your ears. Ear candles.


Question: What products should never be used to clean ears?

Answer: Swabbing or sticking pointy objects inside your ear can cause other serious problems: Infection Rupture of the eardrum Significant hearing loss Ideally, no; your ear canals shouldn't need cleaning. If the problem isn't an earwax buildup, but something more serious, peroxide can make the problem much worse. Ear candles. Studies show they're not effective and they can even cause injury. These hollow candles are supposed to be inserted into the ear canal and lit at the exposed end, but the Food and Drug Administration ( FDA) has found they can cause burns and even pierce the inside of the ear.


Question: Why do our ears make wax?

Answer: The only reason you should clean them is to soften or remove earwax from the outside of your ear canals. It's normal for your body to produce it, and it actually helps protect and lubricate your ears. If you didn't have earwax, your ears would probably be itchy and dry.


Question: How is the Powassan virus spread?

Answer: Infected ticks spread the Powassan virus when they bite people. In the past, types of ticks that rarely bite humans -- such as woodchuck ticks and others -- mainly spread it. These ticks are most active in late spring, early summer, and mid-fall. Not every tick is infected with the virus, and not everyone who is bitten will get sick. But ticks that are infected can transmit it quickly -- within minutes of attaching to a person. You can't catch Powassan from another person.


Question: When might you take aldesleukin (Proleukin) to help treat melanoma?

Answer: It's also sometimes used with chemotherapy drugs. Your doctor will only prescribe them if your melanoma can't be removed with surgery and you have what's known as a BRAF gene mutation.


Question: What are side effects of BRAF inhibitors for melanoma?

Answer: Research shows the drugs make it harder for cancer cells to divide, and help your body's immune system respond to the cancerous cells. Their side effects include: Fatigue Muscle pain Headaches Constipation Hair loss Nausea Rash Hemorrhage MEK inhibitors.


Question: How can immunotherapy help with treating melanoma?

Answer: Research shows the drugs make it harder for cancer cells to divide, and help your body's immune system respond to the cancerous cells. Still, several chemotherapy drugs are used for melanoma, including: Carboplatin ( Paraplatin, CARBOplatin Novaplus) Cisplatin ( Platinol, Platinol- AQ) Dacarbazine ( DTIC- Dome) Paclitaxel ( Abraxane) Temozolomide ( Temodar) Vinblastine ( Velban) Your doctor might give you a combination of these, or he may use them with immunotherapy drugs like interferon-alpha.


Question: When do you get chemotherapy to treat melanoma?

Answer: But it also depends on the size of the melanoma and what stage it's in. It's also sometimes used with chemotherapy drugs.


Question: What are the advantages of participating in a clinical trial?

Answer: Be sure to discuss your treatment costs with the physicians and nurses conducting the clinical trial. Because the drug or device being studied is new, all of the risks and side effects of the treatment are not known at the beginning of the clinical trial. Even if you sign the form, you are free to leave the trial at any time to receive other available treatments. After you agree to participate in a clinical trial, you will continue to receive any new information about your treatment that may affect your willingness to stay in the trial.


Question: How would my treatment be different if I participated in a clinical trial?

Answer: Although they can be inconvenient, these tests can assure extra observation. Depending on the type of clinical trial, you may be asked to stop or change the medication(s) you are currently taking. You may also be asked to change your diet or any activities that could affect the outcome of the trial. Some clinical trials are double-blind, placebo-controlled. This means that the clinical trial participants may receive the real drug or an inactive substance that looks exactly like the drug (called a placebo). Neither the participant nor the researcher will know which drug they are receiving. What kinds of tests and treatments does the clinical trial involve, and how are these tests given?


Question: Can acid reflux disease be treated with diet and lifestyle changes?

Answer: Here are other steps you can take: Eat smaller meals more frequently throughout the day and modify the types of foods you are eating.. Quit smoking. Put blocks under the head of your bed to raise it at least 4 inches to 6 inches. Eat at least 2 to 3 hours before lying down. Try sleeping in a chair for daytime naps. Don't wear tight clothes or tight belts. If you're overweight or obese, take steps to lose weight with exercise and diet changes. Also, ask your doctor whether any medication could be triggering your heartburn or other symptoms of acid reflux disease. The most recently approved procedure involves surgically placing a ring known as a LINX device around the outside of the lower end of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.


Question: Is acid reflux disease ever treated with surgery?

Answer: Also, ask your doctor whether any medication could be triggering your heartburn or other symptoms of acid reflux disease. There are two types of surgical treatment used to relieve symptoms of GERD if daily use of medication isn't effective. The most recently approved procedure involves surgically placing a ring known as a LINX device around the outside of the lower end of the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. The ring consists of magnetic titanium beads held together by titanium wires. The device helps reflux by preventing stomach contents from backing up into the esophagus. In one study, patients were able to stop taking medicine or cut down the amount they took. You shouldn't get the LINX device if you're allergic to certain metals, and once you have a LINX device you shouldn't get any type of MRI test.


Question: What medications are used to treat acid reflux disease?

Answer: If these steps don't help or if you have frequent or severe symptoms, your doctor may order tests to confirm a diagnosis and check for other problems. Some require a prescription. Your doctor may suggest more than one type or suggest you try a combination of medications such as these: Foaming agents ( Gaviscon) coat your stomach to prevent reflux. H2 blockers ( Pepcid, Tagamet, Zantac) decrease acid production. Proton pump inhibitors ( Aciphex, Nexium, Prilosec, Prevacid, Protonix) also reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes. Prokinetics ( Reglan, Urecholine) can help strengthen the LES, empty your stomach faster, and reduce acid reflux.


Question: Are there risks associated with natural colon cleansing?

Answer: Or is it true that colon cleansing can be beneficial? The government doesn't regulate natural colon cleansing products, so their potency, safety, and purity can't be guaranteed. It's always a good idea to talk with your primary health provider before starting a new practice such as colon cleansing.


Question: Is colon cleansing necessary?

Answer: In the U. S., cleansing the colon -- the large intestine -- became popular in the early 1900s. But when the theories behind it lost support, it fell out of favor. Recently, though, colon cleansing -- using, for example, teas, enzymes, or colon irrigation -- has experienced resurgence. Scientific research on colon cleansing is extremely limited. There is no good evidence for most of the claims that its practitioners make. And the side effects can range from mild to severe. You take some supplements used for colon cleansing by mouth. One of the main theories behind colon cleansing is an ancient belief called the theory of autointoxication.


Question: What is the theory behind natural colon cleansing?

Answer: The practice of natural colon cleansing dates back to ancient Greece. This buildup produces toxins, the theory goes, which enter the blood's circulation, poisoning the body. Some people claim these toxins cause a wide range of symptoms, such as: Fatigue Headache Weight gain Low energy On the surface, the idea of toxins being reabsorbed by the body makes some sense. After all, rectal suppositories are used to rapidly administer drugs but the whole theory of autointoxication has been disproven.


Question: How is colon cleansing with irrigation (high colonics) done?

Answer: Others you take through the rectum. After the water is in the colon, the therapist may massage your abdomen. The therapist may repeat the process, and a session may last up to an hour. The practitioner may use a variety of water pressures and temperatures and may or may not combine water with enzymes, herbs, coffee, or probiotics. Probiotics are supplements containing beneficial bacteria.


Question: How is bigeminy diagnosed?

Answer: Your doctor will want to find out if another health issue is causing your bigeminy. She may order tests that check your electrolyte levels and how well your thyroid is working. You may also be asked to have a Holter monitor test or echocardiogram (your doctor might call this an echo). Both of these tests are used to gather more information about how your heart is acting. Your doctor may also want you to take an exercise stress test. This will help her see if physical activity makes your bigeminy worse.


Question: How is bigeminy treated?

Answer: Lifestyle changes can also keep this abnormal heart rhythm from getting worse. Your doctor will address any issue, such as an electrolyte imbalance or overactive thyroid, that could be causing the bigeminy. But if you don't have any symptoms and your heart is working as it should, you may not need treatment. You'll also want to avoid caffeine, alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs, since these can all make PVCs more severe. If your bigeminy is having a severe effect on your heart, you could need cardiac ablation.


Question: What surgery do you get for endometriosis?

Answer: Pain medication. For some cases, surgery to remove as much of your endometriosis as possible may be necessary. Your doctor can perform surgery laparoscopically, which is less invasive, or through standard abdominal procedures, so be sure to discuss all of your options. In the most severe cases of endometriosis, a hysterectomy to remove the ovaries, uterus, and cervix may be the best option available. This is usually considered the last option, especially if you still want to have children.


Question: What is endometriosis?

Answer: If you have endometriosis, you know it causes pain and cramping, which can sometimes be severe, especially during your period. It can even create problems when you want to have a baby. Endometriosis occurs when tissue that should line the inside of your uterus, the endometrium, grows outside of it instead. Even though the tissue is outside of your uterus, it still acts like it should during your menstrual cycles. However, the blood from this tissue has no place to go.


Question: How can you minimize dry mouth?

Answer: To minimize dry mouth: Drink water frequently to keep your mouth moist and loosen mucus. Carry water with you to sip throughout the day and keep water by your bed at night. Suck on sugar-free hard candies, ice chips, or sugar-free popsicles. Moisten foods with broths, soups, sauces, gravy, creams, and butter or margarine. Eat soft, moist foods that are cool or at room temperature. Avoid commercial mouth rinses or mouthwashes that contain alcohol or peroxide. Avoid drinks containing alcohol or caffeine (for example, coffees, teas, some colas, chocolate-containing drinks). Also avoid acidic beverages, such as any fruit juices (orange, apple, grape, grapefruit) and tomato juice. Other tips to reduce irritation associated with dry mouth include: Minimize your intake of spicy or salty foods as these may cause pain in a dry mouth.


Question: What steps can keep tooth decay at bay when you drink sports drinks?

Answer: Others help you digest food. Water is and always will be the best drink for staying hydrated, but that doesn't mean that sports drinks don't have a role to play. Acid in the drinks can soften your enamel. Brushing right away helps wear that enamel down. Do keep your mouth moist and ensure your saliva is flowing. Spit zaps those acids, protects your tooth enamel, and fights off decay. A dry mouth makes it easier for trouble to start. If you're having trouble with mouth moisture, talk to your doctor.


Question: Is the citric acid in sports drinks bad for your teeth?

Answer: These drinks can have as much or more sugar and acid than many sodas and juices. But it can also strip the enamel from your teeth and make them more sensitive as well as more prone to cavities and decay.


Question: What is histamine poisoning?

Answer: Histamines can make your eyes and nose itch. Those fish can build up high levels of histamines, which can make you sick. It's not likely to happen with good food safety practices.


Question: Could physical therapy for a rotator cuff tear work as well as surgery?

Answer: The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles in your shoulder. One study shows that people who got PT for a rotator cuff tear did just as well as those who had surgery.


Question: Is physical therapy for a rotator cuff tear right for me?

Answer: If you think you have a tear, see your doctor. Unless the injury is severe, PT is a typical starting point. Your physical therapist will ask questions about your life and the things you do. He'll do some tests to learn more about your pain. The therapist will ask you to raise your arm, move it to the side, or push against something to see what your limits are.


Question: What treatment is needed for a rotator cuff tear?

Answer: For many people, physical therapy ( PT) is the answer. It may be all you need to treat an injured rotator cuff. PT is a way to get back strength and movement after an injury. It includes things like exercise, ice, heat, massage, and equipment to help return your shoulder back to its normal range of motion. It can get sore from normal wear and tear over the years.


Question: How do you treat an HIV infection rash?

Answer: Because these symptoms look and feel like other common ailments (such as the flu or an allergic reaction) and disappear quickly, many people don't realize they can be signs of an HIV infection. A blood test can easily tell if you have the virus. Once these early symptoms go away, you may not notice any others until much later. Medication can help control the virus, but an HIV infection can develop into AIDS if it's not treated. It's best to see a doctor quickly if you think you have shingles.


Question: What characteristics should I look for in my Crohn's doctor?

Answer: A good office staff. Does the staff answer your calls or return them right away? Are they polite and helpful? Insurance . Is the doctor on your insurance plan? Easy access. If your symptoms get worse, can you get in to see the doctor quickly? Does the doctor respond to your calls or emails. Come to your doctor visit with a list of things that are on your mind.


Question: What should I look for in a doctor to treat my Crohn's disease?

Answer: Background in treating Crohn's disease . Wants to work with your other doctors. Your Crohn's doctor should be willing to work with your primary care doctor, who is your partner for treating any other medical problems you may have. Someone you can talk to. A treatment style that works for you. A good office staff. Is the doctor on your insurance plan?


Question: How well do intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants work as a birth control?

Answer: Doctors often prescribe them first. You don't have to think about them in the heat of the moment or remember to take a pill every day. And they work extremely well at preventing pregnancies. Less than 1 in every 100 females with an IUD or birth control implant will get pregnant during a year. It has a long-acting form of the hormone progestin that lasts about 3 months.


Question: How well do patches work as birth control for teens?

Answer: You don't have to think about them in the heat of the moment or remember to take a pill every day. Your teen needs to stick it onto her body, usually the upper arm or her backside. She'll wear it for 3 weeks, then take a week off. That's when she should get her period. It doesn't prevent pregnancy as well as other methods. About 9 in every 100 users will get pregnant during the first year. Still, it's easier to use than birth control pills.


Question: What should you consider in choosing the right birth control?

Answer: If your teen chooses this option, she'll need to visit the doctor every 11-13 weeks for an injection. Some things to consider: Her overall health Cultural and religious preferences How well the method prevents pregnancy Whether it prevents STDs Ease of use Cost It can be hard to talk to your teen about sex and birth control.


Question: How should I prepare for a cardiac cath?

Answer: For a cardiac cath, most people will need to have blood tests and an electrocardiogram. Your doctor or nurse will give you specific instructions about what you can and cannot eat or drink before the procedure. Tell your doctor all of the medications you are currently taking, including herbal products and dietary supplements. Ask your doctor what drugs should be taken on the day of your cardiac cath. You may be told to stop taking certain medications, such as Coumadin (a blood thinner), for a few days before the procedure. If you have diabetes, ask your doctor how to adjust your diabetes drugs the day of your test. Tell your doctor and/or nurses if you are allergic to anything, especially iodine, shellfish, X-ray dye, latex, or rubber products (such as rubber gloves or balloons) or penicillin-type medications.


Question: Who's more likely to be allergic to a drug?

Answer: That includes prescription medications and ones you can get over the counter. Some drugs are much more likely to trigger allergic reactions, like some antibiotics, seizure medications, and some pain relievers. It can be scary, and diagnosing it can be hard.


Question: What is depression in teens like?

Answer: However, when the sadness lasts for more than 2 weeks and a teen has other symptoms of depression, then he may have a problem. Talk to your doctor and find out if your teen may be depressed. There is effective treatment that can help teens move beyond depression as they grow older. You can feel good after happy events, but you also feel hungrier, need to sleep a lot, and are sensitive to rejection.


Question: How is vasculitis treated?

Answer: Vasculitis is a general term that refers to inflammation of blood vessels. When blood vessels become inflamed, they may become weakened, leak, stretch, and either increase in size or become narrow -- even to the point of closing entirely. Treatment for vasculitis depends entirely upon diagnosis and the affected organs. In other instances, when critical organs such as the lungs, brain, or kidneys are involved, aggressive and timely treatment is necessary. Treatment generally consists of corticosteroid medications (steroids).


Question: What causes vasculitis?

Answer: Vasculitis is a general term that refers to inflammation of blood vessels. When blood vessels become inflamed, they may become weakened, leak, stretch, and either increase in size or become narrow -- even to the point of closing entirely. Vasculitis can affect people of all ages, but there are types of vasculitis that occur in certain age groups more often than others. In a few cases, however, the origins may be traced to recent or ongoing infections, such as those caused by certain viruses. Occasionally, an allergic reaction to a medication may trigger vasculitis. For example, it could be a complication of rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or SjÃ¶gren's syndrome. This medicine may be used along with steroids The outlook for someone with vasculitis varies, depending on the type of vasculitis the person has.


Question: How can cleaning your ears make them itchy?

Answer: Can't stop scratching your ears? Bobby pins, paper clips, matchsticks, and your fingers can also scratch the skin inside your ears, making it easy for bacteria to enter and cause an infection.


Question: How can infections cause itchy ears?

Answer: Too much moisture wears away your ear canal's natural layer of defense against germs. To stop the itch, you'll need to treat the infection. Some may go away on their own, but your doctor could prescribe ear drops. You may need to take them a few times a day for a week. Other infections may need a course of antibiotics. If you have hay fever or a pollen allergy, your ears may itch when you eat certain fruits, vegetables, or tree nuts.


Question: How can earwax buildup cause itchy ears?

Answer: Don't be tempted to try to remove the buildup with a cotton swab. That pushes the wax deeper inside, where it can get stuck. Instead, try over-the-counter ear drops that break up the wax. If that doesn't help, see your doctor. They can use a special tool to safely remove built-up wax. But don't overdo it. Ears can also get itchy if they don't have enough wax inside them. Cleaning your ears.


Question: What questions can I ask my doctor about ovarian cancer?

Answer: Has my ovarian cancer spread? Do I have to have both of my ovaries removed? What side effects should I look for? Should I be tested for the BRCA-1 BRCA-2 mutations? What will the results tell me?


Question: What are treatment ideas to deal with pain or stiffness from rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Moist heat can help relax muscles and ease aches, pain, and stiffness. Talk to your doctor about how to be prepared.


Question: What are some tips for reducing vaginal dryness in postmenopausal women?

Answer: There are a number of steps women in postmenopause can take to stay healthy and feel better. Hot flashes are probably the most common symptom of menopause. Ask your doctor if you need a test to check your bone strength.


Question: What are mental symptoms of Down syndrome?

Answer: While Down syndrome affects people both physically and mentally, it's very different for each person. The effects range from mild to moderate. Children with Down syndrome often take longer to reach important goals like crawling, walking, and talking. As they get older, it may take more time before they get dressed and use the toilet on their own. And in school, they may need extra help with things like learning to read and write. Some also have problems with behavior â they may not pay attention well, or they can be obsessive about some things. That's because it's harder for them to control their impulses, relate to others, and manage their feelings when they get frustrated. As adults, people with Down syndrome may learn to decide many things on their own, but will likely need help with more complex issues like birth control or managing money. Some may go to college, while others will need more day-to-day care.


Question: Can fractional CO2 laser therapy help get rid of stretch marks?

Answer: It may help your skin make more collagen: Pulsed dye laser therapy is a painless blast of light used on new, red stretch marks. One study showed that women's stretch marks faded after five sessions compared to others who used topical creams with glycolic acid and tretinoin.


Question: What causes stretch marks?

Answer: Your skin can't stretch enough to keep up. These long, thin, rippled marks are also called stria. Collagen is a protein that makes your skin more elastic. If your skin doesn't have enough, the marks may show up as it stretches. As your tummy grows to make room for a baby, your skin stretches.


Question: Who gets stretch marks?

Answer: Stretch marks are more common in women, especially during pregnancy. As your tummy grows to make room for a baby, your skin stretches. Hormones that surge when you're pregnant may also weaken skin fibers and cause stretch marks. Both women and men who are obese can get the marks. Even bodybuilders who have little fat can get them where their muscles bulge.


Question: Why are some cases of pain in the elderly left untreated?

Answer: Many older adults feel pain is just a natural part of aging and don't tell their doctors about their problem. If you or someone you love is in pain, talk to a doctor. Although there are a number of pain relievers that are safe for older people, doctors must take special precautions when prescribing pain medication; older patients handle pain medication differently than younger patients. You may be a candidate for any of the pain-relieving therapies available.


Question: What are side effects of taking L-carnitine?

Answer: Carnitine helps make energy in your body. However, studies have not found that it helps improve sports performance, muscle adaptions, or endurance. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, doctors don't recommend L-carnitine for pregnant women. If you take any medicines regularly, you must talk to your doctor before you start using L-carnitine supplements.


Question: Does L-carnitine help athletes?

Answer: However, studies have not found that it helps improve sports performance, muscle adaptions, or endurance. Carnitine is in many animal products.


Question: What is carnitine?

Answer: Most carnitine comes from the liver and kidneys, but you also get some from food. Most supplements contain one type of carnitine called L-carnitine. It's the same type that's in food. Carnitine is in many animal products.


Question: What surgery is done to treat surfer's eye?

Answer: These include: Return of a more aggressive growth Scars Most of the time, doctors only suggest surgery if: Other treatments have failed Your eyesight is at risk The look of it bothers you One type of surgery uses your tissue from your conjunctiva or a placenta to fill the empty space after the lesion is gone. The growth is removed and the filler is glued or stitched onto the affected area. You can return to work or normal activities in a few days. Wear sunglasses every day.


Question: Can you prevent surfer's eye?

Answer: You'll probably wear an eye patch for a day or two. Choose shades that block 99%-100% of both ultraviolet A ( UVA) and ultraviolet B ( UVB) radiation. Wraparound styles provide the best shield against ultraviolet light, dust, and wind. Wear them when you're in the car, too. Unlike the windshield, your car's side windows don't protect you from UV rays. You can also apply a protective film to your side windows to help protect you when you're driving. Experts say to choose a hat with a brim to protect your eyes from UV light. And use artificial tears to keep your eyes moist in dry climates.


Question: What are the symptoms of surfer's eye?

Answer: You might feel like you have something in your eye. Sometimes, there are none -- it just shows up. When there are symptoms, your eye might: Burn Feel gritty Itch Feel like you have something in it Look red If the growth gets onto your cornea (the pupil area of your eye), it could change its shape and cause blurry vision or double vision. Before it appears, you might notice a related condition called a pinguecula (pin- GWEK-yoo-la). This is a yellowish patch or bump on the conjunctiva and can get red if irritated.


Question: What is surfer's eye?

Answer: The growth might spread slowly during your life or stop after a certain point. In extreme cases, it can cover your pupil and cause vision problems. The growth could show up in one eye or both. When it affects both, it's known as a bilateral pterygium. Though it isn't usually a serious condition, it can cause annoying symptoms. You might feel like you have something in your eye. Or it may get red and irritated and require medical or surgical treatment. These include: Return of a more aggressive growth Scars Most of the time, doctors only suggest surgery if: Other treatments have failed Your eyesight is at risk The look of it bothers you One type of surgery uses your tissue from your conjunctiva or a placenta to fill the empty space after the lesion is gone. The growth is removed and the filler is glued or stitched onto the affected area.


Question: What could happen after surgery for surfer's eye?

Answer: See an eye doctor if you have any symptoms. These include: Return of a more aggressive growth Scars Most of the time, doctors only suggest surgery if: Other treatments have failed Your eyesight is at risk The look of it bothers you One type of surgery uses your tissue from your conjunctiva or a placenta to fill the empty space after the lesion is gone. If you do have the operation, pay careful attention to your eye for the next year. Most growths that come back will return within the first 12 months after surgery. After surgery it is prudent to always wear wraparound frame sunglasses outdoors.


Question: What happens during surgery for surfer's eye?

Answer: The growth is removed and the filler is glued or stitched onto the affected area. You can return to work or normal activities in a few days. You make take steroid eyedrops for several weeks or months. They'll ease inflammation and make it less likely for a new lesion to form. It may seem icky to graft tissue into your eye, but it can lower the chances that a growth will return. Wear sunglasses every day.


Question: Do other illnesses mimic symptoms of bipolar disorder?

Answer: Some non psychiatric illnesses, such as thyroid disease, lupus, HIV and other infections, and syphilis, may have signs and symptoms that mimic those of bipolar disorder. An example is mood or behavior changes caused by steroid medications like prednisone (used to treat inflammatory diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and asthma, musculoskeletal injuries, or other medical problems).


Question: Should I keep a diary if I have multiple sclerosis?

Answer: One of the best resources is other people who live with MS. Support groups give you a place to learn new ways to handle your condition and a chance to share how you're feeling with others who understand what it's like. Not only will this be valuable info to share with your doctor, but it will also help you learn to express yourself.


Question: How can I take control if I have multiple sclerosis?

Answer: You'll feel safer discussing sensitive or private feelings about MS and its impact on your life and relationships. MS comes with a lot of uncertainty, so it may help to take charge of the things in your life that you can control. Also keep in mind some of your life-planning issues, such as finances, work, and adapting your home.


Question: Can multiple sclerosis affect my mood and lifestyle?

Answer: It can affect your life in many ways. It doesn't have to keep you from being happy, though. A positive attitude can be one of the best ways to handle the changes MS can bring. The condition shouldn't define who you are. You just have an extra challenge in your day-to-day life. You'll feel safer discussing sensitive or private feelings about MS and its impact on your life and relationships.


Question: What if my chemotherapy treatment isn't the best kind for me?

Answer: In these cases, your doctor might suggest spacing out your sessions or trying a different medication. This can keep your cancer from spreading further.


Question: Is it okay if chemotherapy changes during treatment?

Answer: Still, you or your doctor might decide to change the drugs you're taking or how you take them once your chemo is under way. It's important you understand why you're making the change. Depending on the cancer you have and how severe it is, you might be able to plan sessions around things in your life, like holidays or special occasions.


Question: How do you catch ringworm?

Answer: You can catch it in any of the following ways: From another person. Ringworm often spreads by skin-to-skin contact. From your pets. The fungus that causes ringworm can linger on surfaces, clothes, towels, and in combs and brushes. How the infection is treated depends on where it is and how bad it is.


Question: What is the TNM system for breast cancer?

Answer: Breast cancer cells have spread far away from the breast and lymph nodes right around it. Doctors also group cancers by the letters T, N, or M. Each of those letters tells you something about your cancer. The higher the number assigned after it, the bigger or wider the mass. These small filters are found throughout the body, and they're especially dense in and around the breast. They're meant to catch cancer cells before they travel to other parts of the body. Here, too, a number (0- III) tells you whether the cancer has spread to lymph nodes near the breast and, if so, how many.


Question: What is stage III breast cancer?

Answer: The tumor itself is no larger than a shelled peanut, or there may be no tumor Stage IB means some cancer cells, but just tiny amounts, have been found in a few lymph nodes. The cancer has not spread to bones or organs, but it's considered advanced, and it's harder to fight. IIIA means the cancer has been found in up to nine of the lymph nodes that form a chain from your underarm to your collarbone. IIIB means the tumor has grown into the chest wall or skin around your breast, even if it hasn't spread to the lymph nodes. IIIC means cancer has been found in 10 or more lymph nodes, or has spread above or below your collarbone. It's also IIIC if fewer lymph nodes outside the breast are affected but those inside it are enlarged or cancerous.


Question: How can ramelteon (Rozerem) treat insomnia?

Answer: Ramelteon ( Rozerem) is an insomnia medication that works differently than the other sedative medications. It is less likely to cause morning sleepiness or to be addictive. If you're a habitual insomniac and trying to get to sleep just makes you more anxious and awake, try these alternative choices to help reduce your worry about sleep while relaxing your body and mind.


Question: What relaxation techniques can help with treating insomnia?

Answer: Doxepin ( Silenor) is approved for treating people who have trouble staying asleep. Breathing exercises can promote relaxation. Here's a routine you can do anywhere, anytime: Exhale completely through your mouth. Inhale through your nose to a count of four. Hold your breath for a count of seven. Exhale through your mouth for a count of eight. Repeat the cycle three times.


Question: What good sleep habits can help with insomnia?

Answer: Good Sleep Habits Be sure your bedroom is quiet and dark. Also, these steps are important: Try to keep a regular sleep schedule. Avoid heavy meals, smoking, alcohol, or caffeine near bedtime. Keep the bedroom reserved for sleep and sex only. If you wake up at night and can't go back to sleep, remain quiet and relaxed. Be patient; sleep usually returns. Remember, a few nights of poor sleep do no long-term harm. Even if you toss and turn trying to get to sleep, you are probably getting more periods of sleep than you think.


Question: What is the treatment for insomnia?

Answer: Treatment for insomnia may involve nonmedical therapy, such as developing better sleep habits or psychotherapy, and sometimes medications. If a medical condition like diabetes or menopause is causing your insomnia, treating those conditions may help. If insomnia is a side effect of a medication, changing the medication or its timing or reducing the dose may help. Always talk to your health care provider before making changes to any medications you are taking. Doxepin ( Silenor) is approved for treating people who have trouble staying asleep.


Question: Why might your doctor recommend a Holter monitor?

Answer: It continuously records your heart's electrical activity for at least 24 to 48 hours. Reasons your doctor might recommend a Holter monitor include: You have a fast, pounding, or fluttering heartbeat. Your heartbeat is too slow, too fast, or otherwise irregular. You're tired, short of breath, dizzy or feeling faint. You have chest pain that isn't caused by an exercise test. There's a need to know how well your heart medication or pacemaker is working. The doctor needs to determine if you are at risk for future heart problems after a heart attack or because of another genetic or pre-existing condition. You have a pacemaker and feel dizzy.


Question: What is a Holter monitor electrocardiography (ECG)?

Answer: Your doctor might suggest you wear a device called a Holter monitor. Your doctor may refer to the device as an "ambulatory electrocardiogram," or ECG. These signals tell your heart to contract (squeeze) and pump blood. Sometimes they aren't working right, and the irregular rhythm that results can lead to heart attack or stroke.


Question: What are the symptoms of benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)?

Answer: Vertigo is the sudden feeling that you or your surroundings are spinning. Along with that spinning feeling, you also might have: Dizziness or lightheadedness A loss of balance or unsteadiness Unusual or repetitive eye movements A hard time concentrating Nausea or vomiting You'll probably have these when you move your head up and down or get in and out of bed. They typically last less than a minute.


Question: What is a Dix-Hallpike test?

Answer: They help you sense motion and keep your balance. BPPV happens when a tiny crystal of calcium breaks free from the wall of one of these canals and moves into the canal. That can cause vertigo or make you feel like you're moving when you're not. Along with that spinning feeling, you also might have: Dizziness or lightheadedness A loss of balance or unsteadiness Unusual or repetitive eye movements A hard time concentrating Nausea or vomiting You'll probably have these when you move your head up and down or get in and out of bed. If the Dix- Hallpike test didn't trigger any symptoms, your doctor may want to do other tests to figure out what's causing your issues.


Question: What are common symptoms of a heart attack?

Answer: You may feel uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing, or pain in the center or left side of your chest. Discomfort in other parts of your body, such as the neck, arms, jaw, or back or a burning sensation in the stomach. It's a symptom, and sometimes it can signal a heart attack. You may feel: Pressure, pain, squeezing, or a sense of fullness in the center of the chest Pain or discomfort in the shoulder, arm, back, neck, or jaw Call 911 if it gets worse, lasts for more than 5 minutes, or doesn't improve after you've taken nitroglycerin.


Question: What are common symptoms of a heart attack in women?

Answer: Shortness of breath. Discomfort in the neck, shoulder, or upper back Call 911 right away. It's a symptom, and sometimes it can signal a heart attack.


Question: What should I do if I think I'm having a heart attack?

Answer: Discomfort in the neck, shoulder, or upper back Call 911 right away. If you can't call 911, have someone else drive you to the emergency room. Don't drive yourself. Until the ambulance comes: Stop all activity and try to remain calm. If your doctor has told you before to take an aspirin if you think you're having a heart attack, do so. If not, ask the 911 operator. If you're with someone who might be having a heart attack and becomes unconscious, start CPR. If you don't know how, the 911 dispatcher can talk you through the steps until help arrives.


Question: What are the side effects of breast cancer treatments?

Answer: Targeted therapy. But some may show up later. They're called late effects, and they include: Symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes Trouble getting pregnant Depression Trouble sleeping Changes in the way your breast looks Trouble thinking clearly ("chemo brain") You and your doctor will decide on your treatment together. Side effects.


Question: What happens during radiation for breast cancer?

Answer: This treatment uses high-energy waves to kill cancer cells. Or you can get tiny seeds that give off radiation placed inside your breast where the tumor was. In the past, people had radiation every day for many weeks. These fight the changes in cells that lead to cancer.


Question: What is hormone therapy for breast cancer?

Answer: Others target the specific glitch in your cells that allows the cancer to survive or grow. Hormone therapy.


Question: What is metastatic brain cancer?

Answer: Brain tumors are abnormal growths of cells in the brain. The cells spread to the brain from another tumor in a process called metastasis. This is the most common type of brain tumor.


Question: What are benign tumors relative to brain cancer?

Answer: Although such growths are popularly called brain tumors, not all brain tumors are cancer. But a benign tumor can still cause many problems in the brain by pressing on nearby tissue. This is the most common type of brain tumor.


Question: How do primary brain tumors develop?

Answer: Some brain cancers occur when one type of cell transforms from its normal characteristics. Once transformed, the cells grow and multiply in abnormal ways. As these abnormal cells grow, they become a mass, or tumor. The brain tumors that result are called primary brain tumors because they originate in the brain. Metastatic brain tumors are made of cancerous cells from a tumor elsewhere in the body.


Question: Are all brain tumors cancerous?

Answer: Although such growths are popularly called brain tumors, not all brain tumors are cancer. Malignant tumors can grow and spread aggressively, overpowering healthy cells by taking their space, blood, and nutrients. They can also spread to distant parts of the body. Like all cells of the body, tumor cells need blood and nutrients to survive. Tumors that do not invade nearby tissue or spread to distant areas are called benign. But a benign tumor can still cause many problems in the brain by pressing on nearby tissue. In the U. S., brain or nervous system tumors affect about 6 of every 1,000 people.


Question: What is metastatic brain cancer made of?

Answer: Brain tumors are abnormal growths of cells in the brain. The cells spread to the brain from another tumor in a process called metastasis. This is the most common type of brain tumor.


Question: How do hormones play a role in the development of prostate cancer?

Answer: Men who consume large amounts of fat -- particularly from red meat and other sources of animal fat cooked at high heat -- may be more likely to develop advanced prostate cancer. High testosterone levels may stimulate dormant prostate cancer cells into activity. Some findings suggest that high testosterone levels also influence the initial onset of prostate cancer.


Question: What is swan-neck deformity and how is it related to rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Rheumatoid arthritis ( RA) can affect any joint in your body, including those in your hands and fingers. It tends to improve with pregnancy. The middle finger joint will bend toward the palm while the outer finger joint may bend opposite the palm. It may be the result of chronic inflammation of the finger's middle joint.


Question: What devices can help with your hand and finger pain due to rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: Try a long-handled shoehorn to put on your shoes so you don't have to bend over and stretch your hands. Use lightweight household utensils, pots, pans, cups, and dishes. Put foam padding around your pen or pencil. These are available at most office supply stores. Put an ice pack on the painful joint for 10 to 15 minutes at a time.


Question: What complications can happen from medications for schizophrenia?

Answer: It does not always go away, even when the medicine that caused it is discontinued, but it can be treated with deutetrabenazine ( Austedo) or valbenazine ( Ingrezza).. A rare, but life-threatening complication resulting from the use of neuroleptic (antipsychotic, tranquilizing) drugs is neuroleptic malignant syndrome ( NMS). It involves extreme muscle rigidity, sweatiness, salivation, and fever. If this is suspected, it should be treated as a medical emergency. Some drugs can trigger a decreased immune response, reflected by a low number of white blood cells in the blood.


Question: Can not getting enough sleep make my cold worse?

Answer: One study shows that sleeping less than 7 hours a night almost triples your risk of catching a cold in the first place. If you have a cold and your symptoms are keeping you up at night, go to bed earlier or take naps during the day. Alcohol puts a damper on your immune system.


Question: Can not drinking enough fluids make my cold worse?

Answer: When you get sick, you have to take care of yourself. Just about any liquid will help. Water, juice, hot tea, and soup are all good. Even milk is OK, despite what you may have heard. The idea that it causes mucus buildup is a myth. Lighting up damages cells in your lungs, which makes it harder for you to fight off a cold.


Question: How do doctors treat sleep apnea in children?

Answer: Enlarged tonsils and adenoids are the most common causes of sleep apnea in children. Your pediatrician or an ear, nose, and throat specialist can determine whether your child's tonsils are enlarged enough to possibly block the airway and cause sleep apnea. To confirm the diagnosis, the child may get a sleep study that's done in a special laboratory. Not every child with enlarged tonsils or with loud snoring has sleep apnea. Surgery is the treatment of choice for kids with enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Other treatments are available for those with restricted nighttime breathing due to allergies or other causes.


Question: What are the most likely symptoms of endometrial cancer?

Answer: The most likely symptoms are: Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, which occurs in nine out of 10 women with endometrial cancer. Before menopause, this means unusually heavy irregular menstrual periods or bleeding between periods. After a woman enters menopause, this means any vaginal bleeding, unless she is on hormone replacement therapy ( HRT). Even though HRT may cause vaginal bleeding in postmenopausal women, the first episodes of any such bleeding should be checked by a doctor to make sure that it is not due to endometrial cancer. Difficult or painful urination. An enlarged uterus, detectable during a pelvic exam. Pain during intercourse. Unexpected weight loss. Weakness and pain in the lower abdomen, back, or legs. This happens when the cancer has spread to other organs.


Question: What are the symptoms of endometrial cancer?

Answer: Some women with endometrial cancer have no symptoms until the disease has spread to other organs. But endometrial cancer is usually diagnosed by the appearance of symptoms -- like vaginal bleeding -- as the cancer begins to grow. Vaginal discharge that may range from pink and watery to thick, brown, and foul smelling.


Question: What medications can help with gastroparesis?

Answer: Erythromycin, an antibiotic, also helps your stomach to move food out. Metoclopramide ( Reglan) makes your stomach muscles to move, which helps food leave your system. It may also prevent nausea and vomiting. Ondansetron ( Zofran) blocks chemicals in your brain and stomach that cause nausea and vomiting. Prochlorperazine ( Compazine) helps control nausea and vomiting. Liquids and things that are easy to digest are a good idea.


Question: How can diabetes affect your stomach?

Answer: One of those is the vagus nerve, which controls how quickly your stomach empties. When it's damaged, your digestion slows down and food stays in your body longer than it should. This is a condition called gastroparesis. It can make you feel queasy and vomit. It's also bad for your blood sugar levels. Although it's more common in people with type 1 diabetes, people with type 2 can also get it. Most people with gastroparesis have had diabetes for at least 10 years and also have other complications related to the disease. It measures the pressure, temperature, and p H of different parts of your gut.


Question: How can you change your diet to control the symptoms of gastroparesis?

Answer: Gastroparesis can make it hard to control diabetes. Instead of three times a day, you can have six small meals. You'll have less food in your stomach, so you won't feel as full. It'll be easier for the food to leave your system, too. Liquids and things that are easy to digest are a good idea. For example, choose applesauce instead of whole apples. Avoid foods that are high in fat, which can slow down digestion. Watch out for fiber, which takes longer for your body to process.


Question: How are extreme cases of gastroparesis treated?

Answer: You may have: Heartburn or reflux (backup of stomach contents into the esophagus) Nausea Vomiting (in severe cases, this may happen daily) Trouble controlling blood sugar Feeling full quickly when eating Abdominal bloating Poor appetite and weight loss Food that stays in your stomach too long can spoil and lead to the growth of bacteria. A surgeon will put a special tube through your abdominal wall directly into your small intestine. You "eat" specially made liquid meals through the tube instead of food going through your stomach.


Question: How does electrical stimulation work in treating refractory epilepsy?

Answer: Your doctor may also put a device under your skin that sends electrical signals to one of your nerves, called the vagus nerve. After it's done, you'll probably need to stay in an intensive care unit of the hospital for a few days. Talk to your doctor about any side effects you might have from the surgery. Vagus nerve stimulation ( VNS). The doctor puts a device that looks like a heart pacemaker under your left collarbone. It connects to the vagus nerve in your neck through a wire that runs under your skin. The device sends a current to the nerve, which may cut down on the number of seizures you get or make them less intense.


Question: How long does it take to recover from surgery for refractory epilepsy?

Answer: After it's done, you'll probably need to stay in an intensive care unit of the hospital for a few days. You might need to stay on the drugs for the rest of your life. Talk to your doctor about any side effects you might have from the surgery. You can ask them to put you in touch with other people who've had the surgery, so you can better understand what to expect.


Question: What are the symptoms of refractory epilepsy?

Answer: Your seizures could take different forms and last from a few seconds to a few minutes. You may have convulsions, which means you can't stop your body from shaking. Do you still have seizures after taking medicine?


Question: What is refractory epilepsy?

Answer: You might hear the condition called by some other names, such as uncontrolled, intractable, or drug-resistant epilepsy. You can have refractory epilepsy as an adult, or your child might have it. About 1 in 3 people with epilepsy will develop it. Even though you have refractory epilepsy, it's still possible to get your seizures under control.


Question: How does moisturizing help dry skin?

Answer: If you have dry skin, you should moisturize daily. Do it right after you shower, bathe, or wash your hands, while your skin is still damp. If you can tolerate the greasy feeling, choose a moisturizer that is thick, heavy, and gooey. Skin care experts say ointments (called emollients), such as petroleum jelly, are best. They help seal the skin and prevent water loss. But their greasy feel may be a turn-off for some people. Creams are the next best bet. Lotions are not quite as effective but often feel far better than creams and ointments on your skin. These products are mainly water-based, and the water quickly evaporates when applied to the skin. The moisturizer should be free of dyes, fragrances, and other possible irritants. Make sure the label says the product is hypoallergenic. This means the moisturizer is less likely to cause an allergic reaction, which can make you itch more. If a skin cream or ointment isn't handy, check your kitchen cupboard for a quick fix. Cooking oils and shortening can work just as well as commercial moisturizers and are likely to be less expensive. Fragrant soaps and body washes can also lead to dry skin and itchiness.


Question: If you eat a vegetarian or vegan diet, might you need certain vitamins?

Answer: A meatless diet can be healthy, but vegetarians -- especially vegans -- need to make sure they're getting enough vitamin B12, calcium, iron, and zinc. Vitamin B12 is found naturally only in animal products. Similarly, children under age 5 who are reared on vegetarian and vegan diets can suffer impaired growth.


Question: How can MRI-guided focal laser ablation be used to treat cancer?

Answer: Advances in imaging may make it easier for doctors to learn about the cancer they're up against. Multiparametric-magnetic resonance imaging (mp- MRI), for instance, can uncover the jumble of blood vessels in a new prostate tumor.