Question: What are symptoms of insulinoma?

Answer: An insulinoma is a rare tumor of the pancreas. Normally, your pancreas makes more insulin when your blood sugar is high and less when your blood sugar is low. Because insulomas make too much insulin, they can cause symptoms of low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia. You might have: Confusion Sweating Weakness Anxiety A fast heartbeat Headache Vision changes Personality changes Irritability Lack of muscle coordination Blurred vision Lethargy Seizure Hypoglycemia can be dangerous. To find out if you have an insulinoma, your doctor will test your blood sugar, insulin, C-peptide, and proinsulin during a 72-hour rest.


Question: How often does cancer from computed tomography (CT) scans affect men and women?

Answer: The possibility of cancer is slightly higher in women than in men. It's also higher in kids, because they're growing and their cells are dividing faster than those in adults. Children also have more years ahead of them in which they could get cancer from radiation.


Question: How does a computed tomography (CT) scan cause cancer?

Answer: Know that the chances of getting cancer from a CT scan are very low. And for many people, the test is worth the small risk of radiation exposure. It can help doctors spot dangerous health problems and check that treatment works. Your doctor will make sure that the benefits you'd get from the scan outweigh the drawbacks before she recommends it for you.


Question: Does frequent computed tomography (CT) scans raises your chances of cancer?

Answer: It uses powerful X-rays, a form of radiation, to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. Know that the chances of getting cancer from a CT scan are very low. It can damage the DNA in your cells and raise the chance that they'll turn cancerous. It's important to know that everyone is exposed to ionizing radiation every day, just from natural radioactive material in their surroundings. In a year, the average person gets about 3 millisieverts (m Sv), the units that scientists use to measure radiation. Each CT scan delivers 1 to 10 m Sv, depending on the dose of radiation and the part of your body that's getting the test. A low-dose chest CT scan is about 1.5 m Sv. The same test at a regular dose is about 7 m Sv. The more CT scans you have, the more radiation exposure you get. But that shouldn't stop you from getting them if your doctor says you need them.


Question: What is a computed tomography (CT) scan?

Answer: It uses powerful X-rays, a form of radiation, to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. Your doctor will make sure that the benefits you'd get from the scan outweigh the drawbacks before she recommends it for you.


Question: What protects me from the radiation of computed tomography (CT) scans?

Answer: Each CT scan delivers 1 to 10 m Sv, depending on the dose of radiation and the part of your body that's getting the test. The more CT scans you have, the more radiation exposure you get. But that shouldn't stop you from getting them if your doctor says you need them. What are the chances that the X-rays from a scan will end up causing a problem? It will also prevent you from repeating a test you've already done.


Question: What are the chances of computed tomography (CT) scan leading to cancer?

Answer: Know that the chances of getting cancer from a CT scan are very low. It depends on your age, gender, and the part of your body that's being scanned. Overall, your odds are very low -- the chance of getting a fatal cancer from any one CT scan is about 1 in 2,000. Some organs are more sensitive to radiation than others. It tends to do more damage to cells that grow and divide quickly. The breasts, lungs, thyroid gland, and bone marrow all have fast-dividing cells, so they are more sensitive than other body parts, like the brain.


Question: How much radiation do you get from a CT scan?

Answer: And for many people, the test is worth the small risk of radiation exposure. CT scans use X-rays, which are a type of radiation called ionizing radiation. It can damage the DNA in your cells and raise the chance that they'll turn cancerous. These scans expose you to more radiation than other imaging tests, like X-rays and mammograms. For example, one chest CT scan delivers the amount in 100 to 200 X-rays. That might sound like a lot, but the total amount you get is still very small.


Question: What questions should I ask if I'm concerned about getting a CT scan?

Answer: What are the chances that the X-rays from a scan will end up causing a problem? Could you diagnose me with a test that doesn't use radiation, like an MRI or an ultrasound? How will you protect the rest of my body during the CT scan? Your doctor should use the smallest possible dose of radiation to do the scan -- especially if you need to have several of them.


Question: How do you care for a dog bite ?

Answer: To care for a dog bite injury at home: Place a clean towel over the injury to stop any bleeding. Try to keep the injured area elevated. Wash the bite carefully with soap and water. Apply a sterile bandage to the wound. Apply antibiotic ointment to the injury every day to prevent infection.


Question: How can you prevent infection from a dog bite?

Answer: Your doctor will also take measures to prevent infection. It's rare for dogs in the U. S. to have rabies, but if the dog's health status is unknown, or the dog tests positive for rabies, you will need to get a rabies vaccine. ( Bear in mind that the dog would have to be euthanized and their brain tested for rabies.) The doctor will also make sure that you are up to date on your tetanus shot. You may need to take antibiotics for seven to 14 days to prevent or treat an infection.


Question: How can you prevent dog bites?

Answer: To prevent dog bites: When choosing a dog for a family pet, pick one with a good temperament. Stay away from any dogs you don't know. Never leave young children alone with a dog -- especially an unfamiliar one. Don't try to play with any dog that is eating or feeding her puppies. Whenever you approach a dog, do so slowly,and give the dog the chance to approach you. If a dog becomes aggressive, do not run away or scream. Stay calm, move slowly, and don't make eye contact with the dog.


Question: Will I need stitches for a dog bite?

Answer: Sometimes, sutures are used to close a dog bite wound; however, this practice is controversial. Although suturing the injury can reduce scarring, it also can increase the risk of infection. Whether the injury is closed may depend on its location. For example, dog bites on the face may be sutured to prevent visible scars. Very deep wounds that cause a great deal of damage may require plastic surgery.


Question: Should you see a doctor for a dog bite?

Answer: Although you can provide first aid for a dog bite at home, it's very important to see a doctor, especially if an unfamiliar dog bit you, the bite is deep, you can't stop the bleeding, or there are any signs of infection (redness, swelling, warmth, pus). Dog bites can cause infections that need to be treated with antibiotics.


Question: How will the doctor treat a dog bite?

Answer: Your doctor will examine the injury to see whether the bite was deep enough to damage muscles, tendons, nerves, or bones. Then the doctor will thoroughly clean the bite wound to remove any dirt or bacteria, and may also remove dead tissues from the wound.


Question: What are the different types of oatmeal?

Answer: Rolled oats (also called regular or old-fashioned oats): Oat groats that have been steamed and rolled into flakes that are thicker (and thus take longer to cook) than instant oats. Steel-cut oats (also called Irish oats): You get the whole oat kernel, cut up. These take about 20 minutes to cook. Scottish oats: These are like steel-cut oats, but instead of being cut, they are ground. Oat groats: This is the whole oat kernel -- no cuts, flakes, or grinding. They take longer to cook than other oats. Give them 50-60 minutes to cook, after you bring the water to a boil.


Question: Why should I check the labels on some packets of instant oatmeal?

Answer: Some packets of instant oatmeal, for example, are loaded with sugar -- as much as 8 teaspoons per serving -- and high in sodium. Always check the label to see what you're getting.


Question: Are oats gluten-free?

Answer: If you're on a gluten-free diet, look for oats that are certified gluten-free. Though oats themselves don't contain gluten, they can get tainted with gluten when they're being processed or growing, according to the Whole Grains Council.


Question: What are the benefits of eating oatmeal?

Answer: Oatmeal's most enduring claim to fame is its proven ability to curb bad ( LDL) cholesterol. Chalk that up to a type of soluble fiber called beta glucan. Fiber also eases constipation and helps control blood sugars.


Question: What can you add to make your oatmeal tastier?

Answer: You can cook oatmeal on your stove top, in your microwave, or in a slow cooker. " Try cinnamon, ginger, or pumpkin pie spice. Swirl in a bit of almond butter, or any kind of nut butter. Or sprinkle walnuts (which are rich in heart-healthy omega-3s) or any of your favorite type nut on top. Spoon in some frozen berries, and the warmth of the oatmeal will defrost them for you. Or try applesauce, or dried fruit. You can add milk (dairy, almond, soy, or whatever else you like), too.


Question: What are the symptoms of adenomyosis?

Answer: While some women diagnosed with adenomyosis have no symptoms, the disease can cause: Heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding Severe menstrual cramps Abdominal pressure and bloating Adenomyosis is a common condition.


Question: Does adenomyosis cause infertility?

Answer: Because many women who have adenomyosis also have endometriosis, it is difficult to tell precisely what role adenomyosis may play in fertility problems. However, some studies have shown that adenomyosis may contribute to infertility.


Question: How is hormone therapy used to treat adenomyosis?

Answer: Adenomyosis can cause menstrual cramps, lower abdominal pressure, and bloating before menstrual periods and can result in heavy periods.


Question: How is uterine artery embolization used to treat adenomyosis?

Answer: In this minimally invasive procedure, which is commonly used to help shrink fibroids, tiny particles are used to block the blood vessels that provide blood flow to the adenomyosis. The particles are guided through a tiny tube inserted by the radiologist into the patient's femoral artery. With blood supply cut off, the adenomyosis shrinks.


Question: What techniques are used to diagnose adenomyosis?

Answer: A pelvic exam may reveal an enlarged and tender uterus. An ultrasound can allow a doctor to see the uterus, its lining, and its muscular wall. Though ultrasound cannot definitively diagnose adenomyosis, it can help to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms. Another technique sometimes used to help evaluate the symptoms associated with adenomyosis is sonohysterography. In sonohysterography, saline solution is injected through a tiny tube into the uterus as an ultrasound is given.


Question: How is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) used to diagnose adenomyosis?

Answer: Using MRI or transvaginal ultrasound, doctors can see characteristics of the disease in the uterus.


Question: How can adenomyosis be misdiagnosed?

Answer: However, the two conditions are not the same. While fibroids are benign tumors growing in or on the uterine wall, adenomyosis is less of a defined mass of cells within the uterine wall. An accurate diagnosis is key in choosing the right treatment.


Question: Who gets adenomyosis?

Answer: While some women diagnosed with adenomyosis have no symptoms, the disease can cause: Heavy, prolonged menstrual bleeding Severe menstrual cramps Abdominal pressure and bloating Adenomyosis is a common condition. It is most often diagnosed in middle-aged women and women who have had children. Some studies also suggest that women who have had prior uterine surgery may be at risk for adenomyosis. Though the cause of adenomyosis isn't known, studies have suggested that various hormones -- including estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, and follicle stimulating hormone -- may trigger the condition.


Question: How is adenomyosis diagnosed?

Answer: However, imaging technology has made it possible for doctors to recognize adenomyosis without surgery. Using MRI or transvaginal ultrasound, doctors can see characteristics of the disease in the uterus. The only definitive cure for adenomyosis is a hysterectomy, or the removal of the uterus.


Question: How is adenomyosis treated?

Answer: Your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) to relieve mild pain associated with adenomyosis. This is often the treatment of choice for women with significant symptoms.


Question: How is endometrial ablation used to treat adenomyosis?

Answer: Adenomyosis is a condition in which the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus (the myometrium). Endometrial ablation.


Question: How are anti-inflammatory medications used to treat adenomyosis?

Answer: Adenomyosis is a condition in which the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus (the myometrium). Anti-inflammatory medications.


Question: Can adenomyosis be cured?

Answer: Adenomyosis is a condition in which the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus (the myometrium). It is most often diagnosed in middle-aged women and women who have had children.


Question: What is adenomyosis?

Answer: Adenomyosis can cause menstrual cramps, lower abdominal pressure, and bloating before menstrual periods and can result in heavy periods. The condition can be located throughout the entire uterus or localized in one spot. !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(); }); } Though adenomyosis is considered a benign (not life-threatening) condition, the frequent pain and heavy bleeding associated with it can have a negative impact on a woman's quality of life. This minimally invasive procedure destroys the lining of the uterus.


Question: When can I exercise after recovery from a stress fracture?

Answer: For the next six to eight weeks -- or until you're free of pain -- avoid the activity that caused the stress fracture, and avoid putting too much weight on the affected area. If you exercise again too soon, you could delay the healing process. You could even cause damage that may never heal properly. When you are ready to return to the activity, do it slowly. If you rush back in, you could re-injure yourself. Very severe stress fractures that won't heal on their own may require surgery. Full recovery may take months or years.


Question: How is a stress fracture treated?

Answer: The initial treatment for a stress fracture is to elevate the extremity and rest while the bone heals itself. Ice the affected area for 24 to 48 hours and reduce your activity. For pain, you may use NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin. Depending on which bone is involved, your doctor may recommend a splint or cast to immobilize the affected area.


Question: When can I go back to full weight-bearing after treatment for stress fractures?

Answer: When the swelling has decreased to the point you can see skin creases, you can begin partially putting weight on the area. In some cases, crutches or a cane is necessary. Usually, you can begin full weight-bearing at two weeks after the symptoms started, but don't do anything that causes pain. Weight-bearing stimulates healing.


Question: What diet tips can help you stay healthy after an organ transplant?

Answer: These may include: Eat high-fiber foods such as raw fruits and vegetables. Increase calcium by eating low-fat dairy products, eating green leafy vegetables, or taking calcium supplements (if directed by your doctor). Eat less salt, processed food, and snacks. Drink plenty of water (unless you are told to limit fluids). Eat high-protein foods such as lean meat, chicken (without the skin), fish, eggs, unsalted nuts, and beans. Instead of frying your food, try baking, broiling, grilling, boiling, or steaming.


Question: Which conditions are side effects of an organ transplant?

Answer: You also may experience other side effects such as: Diarrhea High blood pressure High cholesterol Elevated blood sugars Infection If you notice any side effects, don't stop taking the drugs on your own.


Question: Should I take cough medicine?

Answer: However, a persistent cough should be diagnosed and treated specifically. On the shelf you'll find numerous cough medicines with various combinations of decongestants, antihistamines, analgesics/antipyretics, cough suppressants, and expectorants. Ask your pharmacist which combination, if any, would be right for you.


Question: Is it better to take a decongestant or an antihistamine?

Answer: If you have nasal or sinus congestion, then a decongestant can be helpful. If you have drainage -- either a runny nose or postnasal drip or itchy, watery eyes -- then an antihistamine may be helpful. Over-the-counter antihistamines often make people drowsy; decongestants can make people hyper or keep them awake. Antihistamines can make secretions thick, which can be a problem for people with asthma. Keep in mind that both these medications may interact with other drugs you may be taking for conditions such as heart disease, and they may worsen some conditions. Discuss with your doctor or pharmacist which cold medication may be best for you.


Question: How often should I use nasal spray?

Answer: Nasal decongestants work fast to open breathing passages. But if you use them for more than three days in a row, you may suffer a "rebound effect," and end up more congested than you were at the start. Some doctors suggest using a saline spray instead of a medicated spray. Saline spray works more slowly but has no rebound effect.


Question: What's the best thing to do for a sore throat?

Answer: But if you use them for more than three days in a row, you may suffer a "rebound effect," and end up more congested than you were at the start. However, a persistent cough should be diagnosed and treated specifically. Each type of medicine has its own set of risks, so check with your doctor or pharmacist as to which type of pain reliever or fever reducer is best for you. Drinking lots of fluids and using salt water gargles (made by combining a cup of warm water and a teaspoon of salt) can often be helpful for easing the pain of a sore throat.


Question: What should I take for fever and aches?

Answer: Keep in mind that both these medications may interact with other drugs you may be taking for conditions such as heart disease, and they may worsen some conditions. It helps the body fight off infection by suppressing the growth of bacteria and viruses and activating the immune system. Doctors no longer recommend suppressing fever for most people, except perhaps for the very young, the very old, and those with certain medical conditions such as heart disease or lung disease. However, if you are uncomfortable, it's fine to take these medications. Young people (including those in their early 20s), however, should avoid aspirin. Tylenol, or other medicines with acetaminophen, and Advil, or other medicines with ibuprofen, are best. Each type of medicine has its own set of risks, so check with your doctor or pharmacist as to which type of pain reliever or fever reducer is best for you.


Question: How do doctors look for what's causing recurrent abdominal pain?

Answer: When you or your child sees the doctor about RAP, she'll ask about symptoms and family history. She'll want to know when the pain starts and what seems to make it feel worse or better. Then, she'll do a thorough physical exam. She'll probably take samples of blood and urine to do some tests. She also can order a scan to look inside your body for a problem, such as a CT scan, MRI, or an ultrasound. If you're over age 50, you may get a colonoscopy, which is when a doctor uses a thin, flexible tool with a camera to look for problems inside your colon and rectum.


Question: What is recurrent abdominal pain (RAP)?

Answer: If you have at least three of them over 3 months, and they're severe enough to keep you from doing everyday activities, you have what doctors call ârecurrent abdominal painâ ( RAP).


Question: What's the treatment for recurrent abdominal pain?

Answer: If a specific health issue is making your stomach hurt, you'll need to get treatment for that problem. Your doctor could also suggest lifestyle changes like eating different foods or finding ways to manage stress. Often, a mix of different things helps.


Question: What causes recurrent abdominal pain (RAP)?

Answer: Adults and children can have RAP for many reasons, including some health problems. For children, they might include: Anxiety Depression Trouble digesting the sugar in milk products, called lactose intolerance Heartburn Constipation Urinary tract infection Abdominal migraines (stomach pain that comes back a lot without a known cause) Health issues that can cause RAP in adults include: Indigestion Constipation Period pain Stomach ulcers Urinary tract infection Liver or gallbladder problems Inflammatory bowel disease Irritable bowel syndrome Infection from a parasite Cancer Still, many adults and kids have RAP that's not caused by any clear medical problem.


Question: What are health issues that can cause recurrent abdominal pain (RAP)?

Answer: For children, they might include: Anxiety Depression Trouble digesting the sugar in milk products, called lactose intolerance Heartburn Constipation Urinary tract infection Abdominal migraines (stomach pain that comes back a lot without a known cause) Health issues that can cause RAP in adults include: Indigestion Constipation Period pain Stomach ulcers Urinary tract infection Liver or gallbladder problems Inflammatory bowel disease Irritable bowel syndrome Infection from a parasite Cancer Still, many adults and kids have RAP that's not caused by any clear medical problem.


Question: What are symptoms of recurrent abdominal pain (RAP)?

Answer: If you have at least three of them over 3 months, and they're severe enough to keep you from doing everyday activities, you have what doctors call ârecurrent abdominal painâ ( RAP). For children, they might include: Anxiety Depression Trouble digesting the sugar in milk products, called lactose intolerance Heartburn Constipation Urinary tract infection Abdominal migraines (stomach pain that comes back a lot without a known cause) Health issues that can cause RAP in adults include: Indigestion Constipation Period pain Stomach ulcers Urinary tract infection Liver or gallbladder problems Inflammatory bowel disease Irritable bowel syndrome Infection from a parasite Cancer Still, many adults and kids have RAP that's not caused by any clear medical problem. Besides pain, there may be symptoms like diarrhea or throwing up.


Question: How is recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) diagnosed?

Answer: If you have at least three of them over 3 months, and they're severe enough to keep you from doing everyday activities, you have what doctors call ârecurrent abdominal painâ ( RAP). For children, they might include: Anxiety Depression Trouble digesting the sugar in milk products, called lactose intolerance Heartburn Constipation Urinary tract infection Abdominal migraines (stomach pain that comes back a lot without a known cause) Health issues that can cause RAP in adults include: Indigestion Constipation Period pain Stomach ulcers Urinary tract infection Liver or gallbladder problems Inflammatory bowel disease Irritable bowel syndrome Infection from a parasite Cancer Still, many adults and kids have RAP that's not caused by any clear medical problem. When you or your child sees the doctor about RAP, she'll ask about symptoms and family history. She'll want to know when the pain starts and what seems to make it feel worse or better. Then, she'll do a thorough physical exam. She'll probably take samples of blood and urine to do some tests. She also can order a scan to look inside your body for a problem, such as a CT scan, MRI, or an ultrasound. If you're over age 50, you may get a colonoscopy, which is when a doctor uses a thin, flexible tool with a camera to look for problems inside your colon and rectum.


Question: What causes recurrent abdominal pain (RAP) in children?

Answer: If you have at least three of them over 3 months, and they're severe enough to keep you from doing everyday activities, you have what doctors call ârecurrent abdominal painâ ( RAP). For children, they might include: Anxiety Depression Trouble digesting the sugar in milk products, called lactose intolerance Heartburn Constipation Urinary tract infection Abdominal migraines (stomach pain that comes back a lot without a known cause) Health issues that can cause RAP in adults include: Indigestion Constipation Period pain Stomach ulcers Urinary tract infection Liver or gallbladder problems Inflammatory bowel disease Irritable bowel syndrome Infection from a parasite Cancer Still, many adults and kids have RAP that's not caused by any clear medical problem.


Question: How do I prepare for a positron emission tomography (PET) scan?

Answer: A positron emission tomography ( PET) scan may be used to locate the part of the brain that is causing seizures. Before undergoing the PET procedure, be sure to tell your doctor of any medication -- prescription or non-prescription -- that you are taking, along with any herbal drugs or supplements you may be using. It is also very important that you tell the doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, since the PET scan can be harmful to an unborn child. Depending on the area of your body being tested, you may be asked to undress completely and put on a hospital gown. You will also be asked to remove any dentures, jewelry, or metal objects during the scan, because these items may affect the reading.


Question: How is a positron emission tomography (PET) scan done?

Answer: You will be asked to lie down on a flat table that is next to a scanner computer and a camera. You will then be given the tracer through an IV. After that, the PET scanner, a doughnut-shaped instrument, will move in circles around you. As this is happening, the camera will take pictures of patterns left by the tracer chemical inside your body. After the PET scan is finished, you will likely be asked to drink a lot of water or liquids during the next day in order to get rid of or flush the tracer chemical from your system. Despite this, test results can usually be given to the patient a day or two after the scan.


Question: How is earwax blockage diagnosed?

Answer: Go to the hospital if: You have a severe spinning sensation, loss of balance, or inability to walk You have persistent vomiting or high fever You experience sudden loss of hearing A doctor can diagnose earwax blockage (or eardrum perforation) by listening to your symptoms and then looking into your ear with an otoscope (ear-scope).


Question: How do you get earwax blockages?

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(); }); } Earwax is produced by glands in the ear canal. Although scientists are still not completely sure why we have earwax, it does trap dust and other small particles and prevent them from reaching, and potentially damaging or infecting the eardrum. Normally, the wax dries up and falls out of the ear, along with any trapped dust or debris. Everyone makes ear wax, but the amount and type are genetically determined just like hair color or height. Smaller or oddly shaped ear canals may make it difficult for the naturally occurring wax to get out of the canal and lead to wax impactions.


Question: What complications can happen if you have earwax blockage?

Answer: Symptoms of an earwax impaction include: Decreased hearing Dizziness Ear pain Plugged or fullness sensation Ringing in the ear Itching or drainage from the ear canal See your doctor if you think you may have any symptoms of an earwax impaction.


Question: What causes earwax blockage?

Answer: Blockage, or impaction, also occurs when the wax gets pushed deep within the ear canal. Earwax blockage is one of the most common ear problems doctors see. The most common cause of impactions is the use of Q-tips (and other objects such as bobby pins and rolled napkin corners), which can remove superficial wax but also pushes the rest of the wax deeper into the ear canal. Hearing aid and earplug users are also more prone to earwax blockage.


Question: How can you prevent earwax blockage?

Answer: Earwax blockage can often be prevented by avoiding the use of cotton-tipped swabs or Q-tips and other objects that push the wax deeper into the ear canal.


Question: What is the medical treatment for earwax blockage?

Answer: The doctor may remove your earwax with a small plastic spoon called a curette, or irrigate your ear with warmed water, sodium bicarbonate, or other prescription-strength eardrops. The doctor may also use gentle suction to remove the wax.


Question: Can ear candling treat earwax blockage?

Answer: Ear candling is not recommended. The procedure uses a hollow cone made of paraffin and beeswax with cloth on the tapered end. The tapered end is placed inside the ear, and an assistant lights the other end, while making sure your hair does not catch on fire. In theory, as the flame burns, a vacuum is created, which draws the wax out of the ear. Limited clinical trials, however, showed that no vacuum was created, and no wax was removed. Furthermore, this practice may result in serious injury.


Question: How can you treat earwax blockage at home?

Answer: Over-the-counter wax softening drops such as Debrox or Murine may be put into the affected ear and then allowed to drain out after about five minutes while holding the head to the side, allowing the drops to settle. Sitting up again will let the drops drain out by themselves. A bulb-type syringe may be used to gently flush the ear with warm water. The water should be at body temperature to help prevent dizziness.


Question: What do doctors recommend for the treatment of earwax blockage?

Answer: Your doctor may recommend that you try an earwax removal method at home, unless you have a perforation (hole) or a tube in your eardrum.


Question: How should I take emergency contraceptives if I have health problems?

Answer: Emergency birth-control pills and the IUD are safe for almost all women. But if you have medical problems and you're concerned that taking emergency contraception could be risky, talk to a doctor or pharmacist.


Question: Which type of emergency contraception is best for me?

Answer: You may want to ask them: There are lots of good options. But the best one for you depends on different things. Your age, for instance -- some nonprescription products have age limits. Your insurance may pay only for a prescription. When you had sex can matter, too. Some products work for about 3 days after, some for 5. Your doctor or pharmacist can steer you in the right direction.


Question: How does weight affect how well emergency contraceptives work?

Answer: Your doctor or pharmacist can help you get answers about emergency contraception. Some products work for about 3 days after, some for 5. The pills may not work as well for women who are overweight or obese. If you're overweight, Ella may work better than Plan B One- Step and generic levonorgestrel. In general, the IUD seems to work better than pills for heavier women.


Question: When is an intrauterine device (IUD) considered an option for emergency contraception?

Answer: When you had sex can matter, too. The IUD goes inside your body. If you want an IUD, a nurse or doctor needs to put it in within 5 days of when you had sex. The IUD works as both emergency contraception and as ongoing birth control. It prevents pregnancy as long as it is in place. The copper IUD is the most effective form of emergency contraception.


Question: When should I go back to regular birth control after using an emergency contraception?

Answer: When you had sex can matter, too. You should use a regular form of birth control right away. Emergency contraception lasts only for about 24 hours and may just delay ovulation, not stop it. Make sure you're protected.


Question: What kind of emergency contraception can I get in pill form?

Answer: You may want to ask them: There are lots of good options. When you had sex can matter, too. You need to be 17 to buy them if a prescription is needed. Pills containing a hormone called levonorgestrel: My Way (over-the-counter) Plan B One- Step (over-the-counter) Preventeza (over-the-counter) Take Action (over-the-counter) 2. Birth control pills can also be used as emergency contraception, but you have to take more than one pill at a time to keep from getting pregnant. Talk to your doctor or nurse to make sure you are taking the correct pills and dose. A third kind of emergency contraception pill is called ulipristal (ella, ella One). The pills may not work as well for women who are overweight or obese.


Question: How do you know your risk for heart disease based on cholesterol levels?

Answer: Your doctor will consider your overall likelihood of heart disease to set your personal LDL goal. For people at great risk of heart disease, or who already have it, your LDL should be less than 100 mg/d L. ( Your heart doctor might recommend an even lower LDL -- less than 70 mg/d L -- if your risk of heart disease is very high.) If you have a moderately high chance, an LDL less than 130 mg/d L is your target. If you're not likely to get heart disease, less than 160 mg/d L is probably fine. High triglycerides (150 mg/d L or greater) also raise the odds for heart disease somewhat.


Question: What are other treatments for abnormal lipid levels?

Answer: If diet and exercise don't lower cholesterol levels enough, you can try medications or a combination of treatments including: Statins, the most effective and commonly used cholesterol drugs Niacin Fibrates Zetia Bile acid sequestrants Your cholesterol numbers don't determine your destiny.


Question: How are cholesterol tests done?

Answer: The different kinds of cholesterol and other fats in your blood are together called lipids. Doctors measure and diagnose lipid problems with a simple blood test. You'll probably have to fast for 9 to 12 hours before it to make sure it's not affected by any food you recently ate.


Question: What should you know about cholesterol testing and the lipid panel?

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(); }); } Cholesterol is a form of fat we need. It helps make the outer membranes of our bodies' cells stable. But for decades, doctors have known that people with high total cholesterol levels are more likely to get heart disease. More recently, they've found the different forms of cholesterol ("good" and "bad") also play a role. High total cholesterol, high bad cholesterol, or low good cholesterol could raise your chances. For example, LDL, or "bad," cholesterol can stick to blood vessel walls. Over years, it can play a role in clogging arteries in a process called atherosclerosis. Narrowed arteries in your heart can then develop sudden blood clots, causing heart attacks. The American Heart Association recommends that everyone over age 20 get a cholesterol test so you know what your levels are and can do something about them if you need to.


Question: What can you do about abnormal lipid levels?

Answer: Lifestyle changes are the first thing to tackle to reduce your chance of heart disease. A cholesterol-lowering diet can bring down bad cholesterol by up to 30%. A diet low in saturated fat (7% of total calories or less) and no more than 200 mg of cholesterol daily can lower LDL cholesterol. Fiber and plant sterols (found in special margarines and other foods) help, too. Regular aerobic exercise can both lower bad cholesterol ( LDL) and raise good cholesterol ( HDL).


Question: Which medicines can cause photophobia?

Answer: Some medicines can also cause photophobia, including: Antibiotics, such as doxycycline and tetracycline. Furosemide ( Lasix): This keeps your body from holding on to too much fluid. It's used to treat congestive heart failure, liver disease, kidney disease, and other conditions. Quinine ( Qualaquin): This is a drug used to treat malaria.


Question: How can photophobia affect you?

Answer: It can cause pain whenever you're in bright sunlight or indoor light. You might want to blink or close your eyes. Some people also get headaches.


Question: Which brain conditions can cause photophobia?

Answer: A few brain conditions can cause photophobia, including: Meningitis (swelling of the protective coverings of your brain and spinal cord) Serious brain injury Supranuclear palsy (a brain disorder that causes problems with balance, walking, and eye movement) Tumors in your pituitary gland Some eye diseases cause this symptom, including: Dry eye Uveitis (swelling of the inside of your eye) Keratitis (swelling of your cornea, the clear layer that covers the colored part of your eye) Iritis (swelling of the colored ring around your pupil) Cataracts (cloudy coverings over the lenses of your eyes) Corneal abrasion (a scratch on your cornea) Conjunctivitis (inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear tissue that sits over the white part of your eye) Damage to your retina, the light-sensitive layer in the back of your eye Blepharospasm (a condition that makes your eyelids close uncontrollably) Photophobia may also affect some people who have these mental health conditions: Agoraphobia (a fear of being in public places) Anxiety Bipolar disorder Depression Panic disorder You can also get photophobia after you have LASIK or other surgery to fix vision problems.


Question: What should you do if you think you have photophobia?

Answer: If you think you have photophobia, see your eye doctor. She'll ask about your symptoms and any medical conditions you have. Then she'll check the health of your eyes and possibly your brain.


Question: What is recovery like after a cornea transplant surgery?

Answer: Afterward, you'll probably wear an eye patch for at least a day, maybe 4, until the top layer of your cornea heals. Your eye will most likely be red and sensitive to light. It might hurt or feel sore for a few days, but some people don't feel any discomfort.


Question: What happens in a full thickness corneal transplant?

Answer: If the doctor does a penetrating keratoplasty ( PK), all the layers of your cornea get replaced. The surgeon sews the new cornea onto your eye with stitches thinner than hair.


Question: What should you know about a partial thickness corneal transplant?

Answer: People with keratoconus or a corneal scar that hasn't affected the inner layers may have this done. The healing time with this procedure is shorter than a full thickness transplant. Because your eye itself isn't opened up, it's unlikely the lens and iris could be damaged, and there's less chance of an infection inside your eye.


Question: How do you know if you need a cornea transplant?

Answer: The light rays that pass through a damaged cornea can get distorted and change your vision. A corneal transplant corrects several eye problems, including: Cornea scarring because of an injury or an infection Corneal ulcers or "sores" from an infection A medical condition that makes your cornea bulge out (keratoconus) Thinning, clouding, or swelling of the cornea Inherited eye diseases, such as Fuchs' dystrophy and others Problems caused by an earlier eye operation Your doctor will let you know which specific procedure is best for your condition.


Question: What is a corneal transplant surgery like?

Answer: Before your operation, your doctor will probably do an exam and some lab tests to check that you're in good general health. You may have to stop taking certain medicines, such as aspirin, a couple of weeks before the procedure. Usually, you'll have to use antibiotic drops in your eye the day before your transplant to help prevent an infection. Most of the time, these surgeries are done as outpatient procedures under local anesthesia. This means you'll be awake but woozy, the area is numb, and you'll be able to go home the same day. Your doctor will do the entire surgery while looking through a microscope. It typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.


Question: What other things can happen after cornea transplant surgery?

Answer: Other things that could happen include: Infection Bleeding Higher pressure in the eye (called glaucoma) Clouding of the eye's lens (called cataracts) Swelling of the cornea A detached retina, when the back inside surface of your eye pulls away from its normal position Most people who have a cornea transplant get at least part of their vision restored, but each situation is different.


Question: What happens in a partial thickness corneal transplant?

Answer: During deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty ( DALK), the surgeon injects air to lift off and separate the thin outside and thick middle layers of your cornea, then removes and replaces only those.


Question: What happens during an endothelial keratoplasty?

Answer: Descemet's stripping endothelial keratoplasty ( DSEK or DSAEK) is the most common type of endothelial keratoplasty. The surgeon removes the endothelium -- a mere one cell thick -- and the Descemet membrane just above it. Then he replaces them with a donated endothelium and Descemet membrane still attached to the stroma (the cornea's thick middle layer) to help him handle the new tissue without damaging it. Another variation, Descemet's membrane endothelial keratoplasty ( DMEK), transplants just the endothelium and Descemet membrane -- no supporting stroma. The donor tissue is very thin and fragile, so it's harder to work with, but healing from this procedure is usually quicker.


Question: What eye problems can a corneal transplant treat?

Answer: The light rays that pass through a damaged cornea can get distorted and change your vision. A corneal transplant corrects several eye problems, including: Cornea scarring because of an injury or an infection Corneal ulcers or "sores" from an infection A medical condition that makes your cornea bulge out (keratoconus) Thinning, clouding, or swelling of the cornea Inherited eye diseases, such as Fuchs' dystrophy and others Problems caused by an earlier eye operation Your doctor will let you know which specific procedure is best for your condition.


Question: What complications can happen from a cornea transplant surgery?

Answer: A corneal transplant is considered a fairly safe procedure, but it is surgery, so there are risks. In about 1 out of every 10 transplants, the body's immune system attacks the donated tissue. This is called rejection. It can be reversed with eye drops most of the time. Because so little donor tissue is used for DSEK and especially DMEK, there's a much lower risk of rejection with these procedures. Other things that could happen include: Infection Bleeding Higher pressure in the eye (called glaucoma) Clouding of the eye's lens (called cataracts) Swelling of the cornea A detached retina, when the back inside surface of your eye pulls away from its normal position Most people who have a cornea transplant get at least part of their vision restored, but each situation is different.


Question: How is a cornea transplant done?

Answer: Most of the time, these surgeries are done as outpatient procedures under local anesthesia. This means you'll be awake but woozy, the area is numb, and you'll be able to go home the same day. Your doctor will do the entire surgery while looking through a microscope. It typically takes 30 minutes to an hour.


Question: When is a full thickness corneal transplant needed?

Answer: You might need this procedure if you have a severe cornea injury or bad bulging and scarring. It has the longest healing time.


Question: Is a cornea transplant safe?

Answer: A corneal transplant is considered a fairly safe procedure, but it is surgery, so there are risks. In about 1 out of every 10 transplants, the body's immune system attacks the donated tissue. This is called rejection. It can be reversed with eye drops most of the time. Because so little donor tissue is used for DSEK and especially DMEK, there's a much lower risk of rejection with these procedures.


Question: Do I need medications to recover from cornea transplant surgery?

Answer: You may have to stop taking certain medicines, such as aspirin, a couple of weeks before the procedure. Usually, you'll have to use antibiotic drops in your eye the day before your transplant to help prevent an infection. After the first year, you should see your eye doctor once or twice every year.


Question: What happens in a cornea transplant surgery?

Answer: A cornea transplant, also called keratoplasty, can bring back vision, lessen pain, and possible improve the appearance of your cornea if it is white and scarred. About half of the people who need cornea transplants each year have a problem with the innermost layer of the cornea, the endothelium.


Question: What do I need to do to recover from cornea transplant surgery?

Answer: You'll have to protect your eye from injury after your surgery. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. It could take a few weeks and up to a year for your vision to improve fully.


Question: When is an endothelial keratoplasty needed?

Answer: Doctors often do this type of surgery to help Fuchs' dystrophy and other medical conditions. Other things that could happen include: Infection Bleeding Higher pressure in the eye (called glaucoma) Clouding of the eye's lens (called cataracts) Swelling of the cornea A detached retina, when the back inside surface of your eye pulls away from its normal position Most people who have a cornea transplant get at least part of their vision restored, but each situation is different.


Question: How often should you see your eye doctor after a cornea transplant surgery?

Answer: He'll want to check your eye the day after surgery, several times during the following couple of weeks, and then a few more times during the first year. The donated tissue usually lasts a lifetime.


Question: How can avoiding smoking prevent you from getting prediabetes?

Answer: Smoking is strongly linked to diabetes: People who smoke are 30% to 40% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who don't. And people with diabetes who continue smoking are more likely to develop complications such as heart disease and blindness. So the sooner you ditch the cigarettes, the better.


Question: What is advanced, metastatic, or stage IV colorectal cancer?

Answer: Colorectal cancer is a tumor that starts in your colon or rectum, the end of your large intestine. When it spreads to other parts of your body -- most often to your liver, lungs, or bones -- doctors use the word âadvancedâ to describe it. Your doctor may also call it metastatic or stage IV disease. Although it's outside your colon or rectum, it's still colorectal cancer, and doctors treat it with drugs for that disease.


Question: How does adding chemotherapy to immunotherapy work to fight cancer?

Answer: Researchers think that similar to radiation, chemotherapy may make some tumors more likely to respond to immunotherapy. Chemotherapy is used along with two types of immune cell gene therapy: CAR T-cell therapy and TCR therapy. CAR T-cell therapy has been approved to treat two types of blood cancer, while TCR therapy is still in the research stages. Both treatments involve âreprogrammingâ immune cells called T cells to fight cancer better. Doctors typically recommend a course of chemotherapy before the re-engineered T cells are put in your bloodstream to cut down the number of other immune cells in your body. This makes it easier for the T cells to seek out and destroy cancer cells.


Question: Has pairing immunotherapy with radiation been a successful cancer treatment?

Answer: There are good reasons for doctors to be excited about pairing immunotherapy drugs with radiation that shrinks tumors and kills cancer cells: Radiation affects some immune cells. Immunotherapy can reverse this damage. Studies show that radiation can make cancer cells vulnerable to attack by the immune system. Combining radiation with immunotherapy drugs has been studied in breast cancer, lung cancer, renal cell carcinoma, prostate cancer, melanoma, uterine cancer, and sarcoma.


Question: How can pairing immunotherapies help in treating cancer?

Answer: Doctors may combine two immunotherapies that work in different ways and have been effective. Combining immunotherapy drugs that work on many fronts, researchers think, can make your immune system even more powerful. Already, the FDA has approved the immunotherapies nivolumab ( Opdivo) plus ipilimumab ( Yervoy) for combined use with certain types of metastatic melanoma, advanced colorectal cancer, and advanced kidney cancer. The drugs work better together than either one does alone. Studies on other combination immunotherapies are being done.


Question: What monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can be used for bipolar depression?

Answer: Antidepressants in this class of drugs that can be used for bipolar depression include: Isocarboxazid ( Marplan) Phenelzine ( Nardil) Selegiline ( Emsam) Tranylcypromine ( Parnate) Among these, Parnate has been the most extensively studied specifically in bipolar depression, leading in one randomized trial to improvement in over 80% of subjects.


Question: What are monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)?

Answer: Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are an extremely potent class of antidepressants that treat depression by preventing the breakdown of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain, increasing their availability. These medications are not used often because of their potential for drug interactions that can lead to problems with blood pressure, as well as the need to avoid foods that contain the amino acid tyramine. They also can be highly dangerous if there is an overdose. Generally, like most antidepressants, MAOIs should be used for bipolar depression only in combination with a mood stabilizer such as lithium or valproate, to minimize the risk of inducing mania. You will also need to monitor what foods you eat to avoid side effects.


Question: What are nonsurgical treatments for rectal cancer?

Answer: Other nonsurgical treatments include giving chemotherapy directly into the liver using radioactive isotopes (radioembolization) or cutting off the blood supply to the tumor in the liver (embolization). Often, doctors give chemotherapy directly into the liver along with embolization. You may hear this called chemoembolization.


Question: What are my treatment options for recurrent rectal cancer?

Answer: Treatment includes: Surgery to remove all the organs involved with the cancer. Studies show that this can help people live longer. If surgery can't remove all of the recurrences, many experts recommend chemotherapy with or without radiation. Sometimes, this shrinks the tumor enough for surgeons to remove it later.


Question: What causes fast, labored breathing in my baby?

Answer: Fast, labored breathing: Fluid in the smallest airways (the "alveoli") causes pneumonia, an infection due to a virus or bacteria. Pneumonia causes fast, labored breathing, occasionally cyanosis, a persistent cough, and crackly sounds ("rales") when listened to with a stethoscope.


Question: What causes a deep cough in my baby's breathing?

Answer: Deep cough: A blockage in the large bronchi (divisions of the trachea, which lead into the lungs) makes a deep cough.


Question: What causes a whistling sound (wheezing) in my baby's breathing?

Answer: Whistling sound (wheezing): A blockage in the bronchioles (small airways that come from the bronchi) makes a whistling sound when the infant breathes out (as in bronchiolitis or asthma later on).


Question: What causes a high-pitched squeaky sound in my baby's breathing?

Answer: High-pitched, squeaky sound: Called stridor or laryngomalacia, this is a sound very young babies make when breathing in. It is worse when a child is lying on his or her back. It is caused by excess tissue around the larynx and is typically harmless. It typically passes by the time a child reaches age 2.


Question: What causes a whistling noise in my baby's breathing?

Answer: This will help determine if there is a problem in the breathing passages and where: Whistling noise: A small blockage in the nostrils tends to make a whistling noise that clears when you suction it out. Newborn babies breathe out of their noses, not their mouths. This is a good trick, as it allows them to breathe and eat at the same time. However, their little noses have small air passages, so a little bit of mucus or dried milk can make the breathing passage even smaller, causing a whistling noise or occasionally, difficulty moving the air in and out.


Question: What causes a hoarse cry and a "barking" cough in my baby's breathing?

Answer: Hoarse cry and a "barking" cough: A blockage in the larynx (windpipe), often due to mucus, makes a hoarse cry and a "barking" cough. This may be a sign of croup, an infection of the larynx, trachea and bronchial tubes.


Question: When should you worry about your baby's breathing?

Answer: Signs of potentially worrisome breathing problems in your baby include: Persistently increased rate of breathing (greater than 60 breaths per minute or so) Increased work to breathe. Signs of this include: Grunting. The baby makes a little grunting noise at the end of respiration. This serves to try to open up blocked airways. Flaring. The baby's nostrils flare during breathing, showing increased effort. Retractions. The muscles in the baby's chest (under the ribs) and neck are visibly seen going in and out much more deeply than usual. Cyanosis. This means the blood has remained blue and has not gotten sufficient oxygen from the lungs (such as with pneumonia). For true cyanosis, the blood all over the body should look blue. Check areas that get a lot of blood flow, such as the lips and the tongue. Sometimes, the hands and feet of newborns turn bluish, but the rest of the body is fine. This is not cyanosis but a common response to changes in temperature. Poor feeding. " Respiratory distress" is often accompanied by a noticeable decrease in feeding intake. Lethargy. Your baby's energy level may be markedly decreased if she has a significant lung problem. Fever. Most infections of the lung will cause a fever, as well. Always check your baby's temperature when you are concerned.


Question: Are breathing problems normal in babies?

Answer: Breathing problems (such as noisy breathing) that only occur occasionally are normal. Worrisome breathing problems, on the other hand, are usually persistent. However, when it comes to any breathing concerns, be sure to contact your pediatrician.


Question: What are some tips for parents concerned with their baby's breathing?

Answer: Watch your baby's breathing when she's well, so you can get used to how it looks. Time how many breaths she takes in a minute. It's probably faster than you imagined. Knowing what's normal for your baby's breathing will help you spot a potential problem more quickly. When in doubt of what's going on, make a video of the breathing pattern that is worrying you to show to your baby's health care provider.


Question: How does having diabetes affect your risk for infection?

Answer: Germs or fungus can get into small cuts or cracks. If you think you've gotten an infection, tell your doctor right away. Early treatment can prevent it from spreading. And that makes you more likely to avoid bigger problems. Some people with diabetes who get major infections even have to get surgery to remove part or all of an affected limb. So, check your feet carefully each day. Keep your skin clean and moisturized, avoid injuries, and protect your feet to prevent small cuts, corns, calluses, blisters, or injuries.


Question: How does poor blood sugar control affect the feet of people with diabetes?

Answer: If your blood sugar isn't well-controlled, you can also have poor or no feeling in your feet. You might not even realize you have a minor injury. Diabetes can also dry the skin on your feet and make your heels crack.


Question: How should you file your toenails if you have diabetes?

Answer: File your toenails with an emery board. You can also have a nail technician or your podiatrist trim and file them regularly. If you get pedicures at a nail salon, bring your own nail tools.


Question: What can people with diabetes do to protect their feet?

Answer: Wear thick, soft socks to protect your feet as you walk. Don't use socks with seams that might rub against your skin and cause blisters. Wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes. Shoes that are too tight or too loose may lead to blisters. Don't go barefoot. You don't want to step on rocks, tacks, or small pieces of glass that could cut your feet. Wear slippers at home. Make sure the insides of your socks and shoes are clean and free from small pebbles or debris that could cut your feet. Keep your feet clean. Don't soak them for a long time. This can dry your skin. Dry your feet well after a shower or bath. Make sure you dry between your toes. After you bathe and towel your feet, moisturize your skin. Rub lotion or petroleum jelly into your skin and heels to keep them from drying and cracking. Don't put lotion or jelly between your toes, though -- this can lead to an infection. In winter, cold weather and central heating can dry out your skin. Take extra care to moisturize your feet and keep them warm. Wear socks to bed if you get cold.


Question: What should I do if I am diabetic and my toenails are changing appearance?

Answer: Look for any redness, swelling, or drainage that could be a sign of an infection.


Question: What should I do if I have diabetes and have minor foot problems like bunions, hammertoe, plantar warts, or athlete's foot?

Answer: Call your doctor if you have minor foot problems like bunions, hammertoe, plantar warts, or athlete's foot, a fungal infection. Treat these issues before they become more serious.


Question: What can people with diabetes do to prevent infections?

Answer: Exercise regularly to keep your blood flow healthy. Watch your blood sugar levels and follow your diet as your doctor directs. If you keep your blood sugar and weight under control, you may have fewer foot problems. Don't smoke. Smoking can narrow your blood vessels and raise your chance of getting foot problems. Also, note any cuts, scratches, scrapes, blisters, corns, or calluses, even if they're small. Let your doctor or podiatrist know in case you need medical treatment.


Question: What kind of tools should people with diabetes use to clean toenails or remove calluses?

Answer: You don't want to step on rocks, tacks, or small pieces of glass that could cut your feet. You can use a pumice stone to gently smooth your heels after taking a shower or bath. Ask your podiatrist or doctor to remove it safely.


Question: What should I do if I am diabetic and think I have a foot infection?

Answer: If you think you've gotten an infection, tell your doctor right away. Nails that seem thicker, yellow, changed in shape, striped, or not growing normally could be a sign of an injury or infection.


Question: How can you prevent ingrown toenails?

Answer: This could cause an ingrown toenail. They often develop on the balls of your feet or the bottoms of your toes.


Question: What should I do if I am diabetic and think I have an ulcer?

Answer: Watch for dry, cracking skin on your feet, toes, and heels. Don't let the corners of your toenails grow into the skin. Tell your doctor if you think you have one.


Question: What are the symptoms of hyperkalemia?

Answer: Potassium also: Moves nutrients into your cells and takes waste out Counters the effects of sodium, which can help your blood pressure Your kidneys control how much potassium is in your body by filtering any excess out of your blood. Having too much potassium in the body can alter the heart's rhythm.


Question: What is the treatment for hyperkalemia?

Answer: Potassium also: Moves nutrients into your cells and takes waste out Counters the effects of sodium, which can help your blood pressure Your kidneys control how much potassium is in your body by filtering any excess out of your blood. Adults should get at least 4,700 milligrams of potassium every day. If you have a low potassium level, you can get muscle weakness and cramps.


Question: How are electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) used for mixed features of bipolar episode?

Answer: Electroconvulsive Therapy ( ECT) Despite its frightening reputation, electroconvulsive therapy ( ECT) is an effective treatment for any phase of bipolar disorder, including manic episodes with mixed features. ECT can be helpful if medication fails or can't be used.


Question: How are mood stabilizers used for mixed features of bipolar episode?

Answer: Mood Stabilizers While lithium is often considered a gold standard treatment for mania, it may be less effective when mania and depression occur simultaneously, as in a manic episode with mixed features. Lithium has been used for more than 60 years to treat bipolar disorder. It can take weeks to work fully, making it better for maintenance treatment than for acute manic episodes. Blood levels of lithium and other lab test results must be monitored to avoid side effects. Valproic acid ( Depakote) is an antiseizure medication that also levels out moods in bipolar disorder. It has a more rapid onset of action, and in some studies has been shown to be more effective than lithium for the treatment of manic episodes with mixed features. Some other antiseizure drugs, such as and carbamazepine ( Tegretol) and lamotrigine ( Lamictal), are also effective mood stabilizers.


Question: What is the best way to manage hair loss due to radiation therapy?

Answer: Some people choose to cut their hair short before treatment begins to make less weight on the hair shaft. If you lose hair on top of your head, be sure to wear a hat or a scarf to protect your scalp from the sun when you go outside. If you decide to buy a wig, ask the doctor to write a prescription for one and check to see if it's covered by your insurance or is a tax-deductible expense.


Question: What are other possible early side effects from radiation therapy?

Answer: Other early side effects you might have usually depend on where you get the radiation.


Question: What should you know about radiation therapy?

Answer: When you get radiation therapy, you'll work with a doctor who specializes in this type of medicine. It's important to talk with her about how the treatment might make you feel and what you can do to feel better. If the therapy makes you uncomfortable, speak up. If you keep your health team informed, they can help you get through treatment.


Question: How can radiation therapy affect men?

Answer: But if you want to have kids later on, you should talk with your doctor to see if you should use a sperm bank before treatment begins. Treatment to the pelvis can make sex painful for some women and can also cause scarring that makes the vagina less able to stretch. In men, radiation can affect the nerves and blood vessels that control erections.


Question: When do late side effects from radiation therapy happen?

Answer: These problems happen when radiation damages your body. For example, scar tissue can affect the way your lungs or your heart works. Bladder, bowel, fertility, and sexual problems can start after radiation to your belly or pelvis.


Question: How can you keep a healthy diet while having radiation therapy?

Answer: Eating Problems Radiation therapy to the head, neck, or parts of the digestive system can make you lose your appetite. But it's important to keep eating a healthy diet while you're having treatment to keep your body strong. Try eating five or six small meals spread out through the day instead of three large ones. Try new recipes or foods. Keep healthy snacks on hand. It will help you eat when you're hungry rather than waiting for mealtimes and maybe losing your appetite.


Question: How can you manage nausea from radiation therapy?

Answer: Nausea Radiation to the head, neck, and any part of the digestive tract can cause nausea and vomiting. Let your doctor know if that happens. She can give you medicine to control it. Also, you might be able to learn relaxation techniques and biofeedback to help control and reduce feelings of nausea.


Question: What mouth problems can radiation therapy cause?

Answer: Mouth Problems Before you start radiation to your head or neck, see your dentist for a thorough exam. Radiation can cause problems in your mouth that include: Mouth sores (little cuts or ulcers) Lack of saliva Thick saliva Trouble swallowing Jaw stiffness Tell your cancer team about any of these problems so they can help you feel better.


Question: How can you manage diarrhea from radiation therapy?

Answer: Diarrhea Radiation therapy to your belly can cause diarrhea, which typically starts a few weeks after therapy begins. The doctor will likely prescribe medications to help control it. She'll also suggest changes in your diet, such as eating small meals more often, avoiding high-fiber foods, and getting enough potassium.


Question: How can you avoid mouth problems for radiation therapy?

Answer: Radiation can cause problems in your mouth that include: Mouth sores (little cuts or ulcers) Lack of saliva Thick saliva Trouble swallowing Jaw stiffness Tell your cancer team about any of these problems so they can help you feel better. To help manage these side effects: Avoid spicy and acidic foods. Don't smoke, chew tobacco, or drink alcohol. Brush your teeth often with fluoride toothpaste and a soft brush.


Question: How soon might you get side effects from radiation therapy?

Answer: Early side effects, such as nausea and fatigue, usually don't last long. They may start during or right after treatment and last for several weeks after it ends, but then they get better. Late side effects, such as lung or heart problems, may take years to show up and are often permanent when they do. The most common early side effects are fatigue and skin problems. You might get others, such as hair loss and nausea, depending on where you get radiation.


Question: How can you take care of your skin from radiation therapy?

Answer: Be gentle with your skin: Don't wear tight clothing over the area that's being treated. Don't scrub or rub your skin. To clean it, use a mild soap and let lukewarm water run over it. Avoid putting anything hot or cold on the area unless the doctor tells you to. Ask your doctor before you use any type of ointment, oil, lotion, or powder on your skin. Ask about using corn starch to help relieve itching. Stay out of the sun as much as possible. Cover the area getting radiation with clothing or hats to protect it. Ask the doctor about using sunscreen if you must be outdoors. If you're having radiation therapy for breast cancer, try not to wear a bra. If that isn't possible, wear a soft, cotton one without underwire. Don't use any tape, gauze, or bandages on your skin unless the doctor tells you to.


Question: What can you do to handle fatigue from radiation therapy?

Answer: Let your doctor know if you're struggling with fatigue. She might be able to help. There are also things you can do to feel better: Take care of your health. Be sure you're taking your medications the way you're supposed to. Get plenty of rest, be as active as you can, and eat the right foods. Work with a counselor or take a class at your cancer treatment center to learn ways to conserve energy, reduce stress, and keep yourself from focusing on the fatigue. Save your energy for the activities that are most important to you. Tackle them first when you're feeling up to it. Keep a balance between rest and activities. Too much bed rest can make you more tired. But don't over-schedule your days without giving yourself breaks. Ask for help from family and friends. If fatigue is interfering with your job, talk with your boss or HR department and ask about taking some time off from work or making adjustments in your schedule. Keep in mind that the fatigue from radiation therapy will probably go away within a few weeks after your treatment ends.


Question: Does radiation therapy cause diarrhea?

Answer: Diarrhea Radiation therapy to your belly can cause diarrhea, which typically starts a few weeks after therapy begins. The doctor will likely prescribe medications to help control it. She'll also suggest changes in your diet, such as eating small meals more often, avoiding high-fiber foods, and getting enough potassium.


Question: Does radiation therapy cause nausea?

Answer: Nausea Radiation to the head, neck, and any part of the digestive tract can cause nausea and vomiting. Let your doctor know if that happens. She can give you medicine to control it. Also, you might be able to learn relaxation techniques and biofeedback to help control and reduce feelings of nausea.


Question: What can I do to help manage fatigue from radiation therapy?

Answer: Let your doctor know if you're struggling with fatigue. She might be able to help. There are also things you can do to feel better: Take care of your health. Be sure you're taking your medications the way you're supposed to. Get plenty of rest, be as active as you can, and eat the right foods. Work with a counselor or take a class at your cancer treatment center to learn ways to conserve energy, reduce stress, and keep yourself from focusing on the fatigue. Save your energy for the activities that are most important to you. Tackle them first when you're feeling up to it. Keep a balance between rest and activities. Too much bed rest can make you more tired. But don't over-schedule your days without giving yourself breaks. Ask for help from family and friends. If fatigue is interfering with your job, talk with your boss or HR department and ask about taking some time off from work or making adjustments in your schedule. Keep in mind that the fatigue from radiation therapy will probably go away within a few weeks after your treatment ends.


Question: Does radiation therapy cause eating problems and what can you do about it?

Answer: Eating Problems Radiation therapy to the head, neck, or parts of the digestive system can make you lose your appetite. But it's important to keep eating a healthy diet while you're having treatment to keep your body strong. Try eating five or six small meals spread out through the day instead of three large ones. Try new recipes or foods. Keep healthy snacks on hand. It will help you eat when you're hungry rather than waiting for mealtimes and maybe losing your appetite.


Question: When do your skin problems from radiation therapy go away?

Answer: Your skin should start to feel better a few weeks after therapy ends. But when it heals, it may be a darker color. And you'll still need to protect yourself from the sun even after radiation therapy has ended.


Question: Can radiation therapy cause cancer?

Answer: Another possible late effect is a second cancer. Doctors have known for a long time that radiation can cause cancer. And research has shown that radiation treatment for one cancer can raise the risk for developing a different cancer later. Factors that can affect that risk include the amount of radiation used and the area that was treated. Talk with your doctor about the potential risk and how it compares to the benefits you'll get from radiation therapy.


Question: Does radiation therapy cause hearing problems?

Answer: Hearing Problems Radiation therapy to the head can sometimes cause hearing problems. One reason might be that it hardens the wax in your ears. Let your doctor know if you have trouble hearing.


Question: What mouth problems can happen from radiation therapy?

Answer: Mouth Problems Before you start radiation to your head or neck, see your dentist for a thorough exam. Radiation can cause problems in your mouth that include: Mouth sores (little cuts or ulcers) Lack of saliva Thick saliva Trouble swallowing Jaw stiffness Tell your cancer team about any of these problems so they can help you feel better.


Question: Does radiation therapy affect your sex life or fertility?

Answer: Fertility and Sexual Issues Radiation therapy to your pelvis can affect your sex drive and whether you'll be able to have a child. If you want to start a family or have more children, it's important to talk to your doctor about how the treatment will affect your fertility before treatment begins.


Question: Does radiation treatment have side effects?

Answer: This treatment can cause side effects, but they're different for everyone. The ones you have depend on the type of radiation you get, how much you get, the part of your body that gets treatment, and how healthy you are overall. There's no way to predict how radiation will affect you. You may have few or only mild side effects from your treatment; someone else may have a lot of problems or very severe ones.


Question: What are late side effects from radiation therapy?

Answer: Late side effects, such as lung or heart problems, may take years to show up and are often permanent when they do. But not everyone will have them.


Question: What are some late side effects of radiation therapy?

Answer: It's important to talk with her about how the treatment might make you feel and what you can do to feel better. Be gentle with your skin: Don't wear tight clothing over the area that's being treated. These problems happen when radiation damages your body. For example, scar tissue can affect the way your lungs or your heart works. Bladder, bowel, fertility, and sexual problems can start after radiation to your belly or pelvis. Another possible late effect is a second cancer. Doctors have known for a long time that radiation can cause cancer.


Question: How long do late side effects from radiation therapy last?

Answer: This treatment can cause side effects, but they're different for everyone. Late side effects, such as lung or heart problems, may take years to show up and are often permanent when they do.


Question: Will radiation therapy cause my hair to fall out?

Answer: You might get others, such as hair loss and nausea, depending on where you get radiation. Others won't. If it does happen, it's usually sudden and comes out in clumps. In most cases, your hair will grow back after therapy stops, but it may be thinner or have a different texture. Some people choose to cut their hair short before treatment begins to make less weight on the hair shaft. If you lose hair on top of your head, be sure to wear a hat or a scarf to protect your scalp from the sun when you go outside. If you decide to buy a wig, ask the doctor to write a prescription for one and check to see if it's covered by your insurance or is a tax-deductible expense.


Question: What kind of skin problems can radiation therapy cause?

Answer: It may also get swollen or blistered. Your skin may also become dry, flaky, or itchy. Or it may start to peel. If you lose hair on top of your head, be sure to wear a hat or a scarf to protect your scalp from the sun when you go outside.


Question: How can radiation therapy affect women?

Answer: Diarrhea Radiation therapy to your belly can cause diarrhea, which typically starts a few weeks after therapy begins. The doctor will likely prescribe medications to help control it. She'll also suggest changes in your diet, such as eating small meals more often, avoiding high-fiber foods, and getting enough potassium. Women shouldn't try to get pregnant during radiation therapy because it can hurt the baby. It also can stop periods and cause other symptoms of menopause.


Question: How are men and women affected by radiation therapy?

Answer: Treatment to the pelvis can make sex painful for some women and can also cause scarring that makes the vagina less able to stretch. In men, radiation can affect the nerves and blood vessels that control erections. Your doctor can help you understand what might happen and how you can handle it. It's natural to have less interest in sex when you're having treatment for cancer. Make sure you listen to their concerns, too. Talk with your doctor about the potential risk and how it compares to the benefits you'll get from radiation therapy.


Question: Does radiation therapy always cause hair loss?

Answer: You might get others, such as hair loss and nausea, depending on where you get radiation. Others won't. If it does happen, it's usually sudden and comes out in clumps. In most cases, your hair will grow back after therapy stops, but it may be thinner or have a different texture.


Question: How early do side effects from radiation therapy start?

Answer: This treatment can cause side effects, but they're different for everyone. Early side effects, such as nausea and fatigue, usually don't last long. They may start during or right after treatment and last for several weeks after it ends, but then they get better. Late side effects, such as lung or heart problems, may take years to show up and are often permanent when they do. The most common early side effects are fatigue and skin problems. You might get others, such as hair loss and nausea, depending on where you get radiation.


Question: Where can I find information on when to take insulin?

Answer: Follow your doctor's guidelines on when to take your insulin.


Question: How do you know what type of insulin is best for your diabetes?

Answer: The types of insulin include: Rapid-acting Short-acting Intermediate-acting Long-acting Pre-mixed Your doctor will work with you to prescribe the type of insulin that's best for you and your diabetes. Making that choice will depend on many things, including: How you respond to insulin. ( How long it takes the body to absorb it and how long it remains active varies from person to person.) Lifestyle choices. The type of food you eat, how much alcohol you drink, or how much exercise you get will all affect how your body uses insulin. Your willingness to give yourself multiple injections per day How often you check your blood sugar Your age Your goals for managing your blood sugar Afrezza, a rapid-acting inhaled insulin, is FDA-approved for use before meals for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.


Question: What types of insulin treat diabetes?

Answer: The types of insulin include: Rapid-acting Short-acting Intermediate-acting Long-acting Pre-mixed Your doctor will work with you to prescribe the type of insulin that's best for you and your diabetes. Making that choice will depend on many things, including: How you respond to insulin. ( How long it takes the body to absorb it and how long it remains active varies from person to person.)


Question: When should you take your insulin for diabetes?

Answer: Rapid acting insulins: About 15 minutes before mealtime Short-acting insulins: 30 to 60 minutes before a meal Intermediate-acting insulins: Up to 1 hour prior to a meal Pre-mixed insulins: Depending on the product, between 10 minutes or 30 to 45 minutes before mealtime Long-acting insulins aren't tied to mealtimes.


Question: Are there any insulins that aren't tied to mealtimes?

Answer: Rapid acting insulins: About 15 minutes before mealtime Short-acting insulins: 30 to 60 minutes before a meal Intermediate-acting insulins: Up to 1 hour prior to a meal Pre-mixed insulins: Depending on the product, between 10 minutes or 30 to 45 minutes before mealtime Long-acting insulins aren't tied to mealtimes. You'll take detemir ( Levemir) once or twice a day no matter when you eat. And you'll take glargine ( Basaglar, Lantus, Toujeo) once a day, always at the same time. Deglutec is taken once a day, and the time of day can be flexible. But some people do have to pair a long-acting insulin with a shorter-acting type or another medication that does have to be taken at meal time.


Question: How long before eating should I use the different types of insulins?

Answer: Rapid acting insulins: About 15 minutes before mealtime Short-acting insulins: 30 to 60 minutes before a meal Intermediate-acting insulins: Up to 1 hour prior to a meal Pre-mixed insulins: Depending on the product, between 10 minutes or 30 to 45 minutes before mealtime Long-acting insulins aren't tied to mealtimes.


Question: When should I take insulin if I have diabetes?

Answer: The time span between your shot and meals may vary depending on the type you use. In general, though, you should coordinate your injection with a meal. For more information about when to take insulin, read the "dosing and administration" section of the insulin product package insert that came with your insulin product, or talk with your doctor.


Question: How do I know which type of insulin is best for me?

Answer: The types of insulin include: Rapid-acting Short-acting Intermediate-acting Long-acting Pre-mixed Your doctor will work with you to prescribe the type of insulin that's best for you and your diabetes. Making that choice will depend on many things, including: How you respond to insulin. The type of food you eat, how much alcohol you drink, or how much exercise you get will all affect how your body uses insulin.


Question: What are signs of alcohol use disorder?

Answer: Some of the signals include: An uncontrollable urge to drink Lack of control over how much you drink Negative thoughts when you're not drinking alcohol Drinking in risky situations Drinking that interferes with fulfilling obligations Continuing to drink even though it causes problems or makes them worsen Stopping or doing less of important activities because of alcohol There are mild, moderate, and severe forms of AUD, which depend on how many symptoms you have.


Question: What is heavy drinking for women and for men?

Answer: For women, "heavy" or "at risk" drinking means more than seven drinks per week, or more than three in any day. For men, it's more than 14 drinks in a week, or more than four in a day.


Question: What is one alcoholic drink serving size?

Answer: One drink equals: 1.5 ounces of liquor (like whisky, rum, or tequila) 5 ounces of wine 12 ounces of beer Another way to look at your drinking habits is to think about how much you have during an average week.


Question: What are long term effects of alcohol use disorder?

Answer: In the short term, AUD can cause: Memory loss Hangovers Blackouts Long-term effects include: Stomach problems Heart problems Cancer Brain damage Permanent memory loss Pancreatitis High blood pressure Cirrhosis, or scarring on your liver You're also more likely to take dangerous risks.


Question: What are signs of hypomania in bipolar II disorder?

Answer: Signs of hypomania in bipolar II disorder include: Decreased need for sleep Extreme focus on projects at work or at home Exuberant and elated mood Increased confidence Increased creativity and productivity Increased energy and libido Reckless behaviors Risky pleasure-seeking behaviors As with most mood disorders, there is no laboratory test or brain imaging method to diagnose bipolar disorder.


Question: What are signs of mania in bipolar disorder?

Answer: The clinical depression symptoms seen with bipolar disorder are the same as those seen in major depressive disorder and include: Decreased appetite and/or weight loss, or overeating and weight gain Difficulty concentrating, remembering, and making decisions Fatigue, decreased energy, being "slowed down" Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain Persistently sad, anxious, or "empty" moods Restlessness, irritability Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts The signs of mania in bipolar disorder include: Disconnected and very fast (racing) thoughts Grandiose beliefs Inappropriate elation or euphoria Inappropriate irritability Inappropriate social behavior Increased sexual desire Increased talking speed or volume Markedly increased energy Poor judgment A decreased need for sleep due to high energy While mania is the main characteristic of bipolar I disorder, bipolar II has milder periods of elation known as hypomania.


Question: At what age does bipolar disorder usually first appear?

Answer: It's rare that newly diagnosed mania is seen in young children or in adults over age 65.


Question: Can I get herpes through oral sex?

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


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

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


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

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


Question: Will condoms help keep me from getting herpes?

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


Question: What can you do to treat tiredness and avoid wasting time?

Answer: Other signs that you need more shut-eye include: Falling asleep while watching TV or reading a book Feeling irritable Sleeping longer on weekends Trouble waking up in the mornings To get a good night's rest, keep the same bedtime and wake time. Don't smoke, and steer clear of alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals for a few hours before bed, since they can disrupt your Zzz's.


Question: How can you stop anxious feelings and prevent wasting time?

Answer: You might also have: Muscle tension Fatigue Trouble sleeping Irritability To stop anxious feelings, take 10 slow, deep breaths, or replace a negative thought with a positive one. It's also important to get enough rest, exercise regularly, and make sure you don't skip meals. Keep a journal to help you learn what triggers your anxiety. Some people need medications or talk therapy to get the condition under control.


Question: What can you do if you if you're wasting so much time?

Answer: Then think of realistic ways you can get past it. If you think you're stuck because of a more serious health problem, talk to your doctor to make sure you get the right diagnosis and treatment. If good old-fashioned procrastination is your issue, break big projects into smaller ones you can do more easily. You can set deadlines to stay on track. Some people also find it helpful to reward themselves when they make progress. When you catch yourself wasting time, forgive yourself rather than feeling ashamed or angry. You may be less likely to procrastinate again if you go easy on yourself.


Question: Could obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) be causing you to waste time?

Answer: If you have this disorder, your brain can't signal when you're doing something correctly. Instead, you have a nagging sense that your actions aren't âjust right.â Rather than finish a task, people with OCD get stuck looking for a âperfectâ solution. Other symptoms include: A lot of unwanted thoughts or images Feeling helpless to stop the thoughts Rituals like hand washing Spending at least 1 hour a day on these thoughts and rituals Anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants can often improve OCD symptoms.


Question: Am I depressed?

Answer: You may have very little energy, even for hobbies and activities you love. It's also common to feel helpless and self-critical, which can cause someone with the condition to âshut down.â Other symptoms of depression include: A feeling of sadness that doesn't go away Low appetite and weight loss, or overeating and weight gain Restlessness or feeling irritable Thoughts of suicide or death Call 911 if you're thinking about hurting yourself or others.


Question: How can I control my ADHD?

Answer: Other symptoms of ADHD include: Daydreaming Forgetting or losing things Making careless mistakes or taking unsafe risks Squirming or fidgeting Medications can often help control many symptoms of the disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps identify and change negative thought patterns, also can help many people with the condition better manage their time.


Question: How can I control my anxiety?

Answer: You might also have: Muscle tension Fatigue Trouble sleeping Irritability To stop anxious feelings, take 10 slow, deep breaths, or replace a negative thought with a positive one. It's also important to get enough rest, exercise regularly, and make sure you don't skip meals. Keep a journal to help you learn what triggers your anxiety. Some people need medications or talk therapy to get the condition under control.


Question: How can I stop procrastinating?

Answer: If good old-fashioned procrastination is your issue, break big projects into smaller ones you can do more easily. You can set deadlines to stay on track. Some people also find it helpful to reward themselves when they make progress. When you catch yourself wasting time, forgive yourself rather than feeling ashamed or angry. You may be less likely to procrastinate again if you go easy on yourself.


Question: What can you do to control stress and avoid wasting time?

Answer: If the tension's bad enough to keep you from getting things done, you might notice it affects you in other ways, too, like: Trouble sleeping Racing thoughts Lack of energy or trouble focusing Headaches or muscle tension Keep your mood in check with regular exercise, limit alcohol and caffeine (which can make stress worse), and get enough sleep. Talk to a friend or counselor about what's on your mind, too.


Question: Is it normal that I waste a lot of time?

Answer: Putting off something that needs to be done is called procrastination. We all do it sometimes. But if you constantly struggle to finish tasks, there may be a bigger problem at play. Once you figure out your reasons, you can work on making the most of your time. If you've had less than 6 hours, it's harder for your brain to tune out distractions and focus long enough to finish what you need to do.


Question: Do I have OCD?

Answer: If you've had less than 6 hours, it's harder for your brain to tune out distractions and focus long enough to finish what you need to do. Instead, you have a nagging sense that your actions aren't âjust right.â Rather than finish a task, people with OCD get stuck looking for a âperfectâ solution. Other symptoms include: A lot of unwanted thoughts or images Feeling helpless to stop the thoughts Rituals like hand washing Spending at least 1 hour a day on these thoughts and rituals Anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants can often improve OCD symptoms.


Question: How can I control my depression?

Answer: Keep a journal to help you learn what triggers your anxiety. Even if not, talk to a counselor or therapist if you have any of these other symptoms. Some people also find relief from their depression with antidepressant medicine.


Question: I'm perimenopausal and have been told I should be taking low-dose birth control pills. Why?

Answer: Compared to regular birth control pills, the lower dose of estrogen in very-low-dose pills may be safer for perimenopausal women. ( Perimenopause typically begins several years before your final period.) While regular birth control pills contain 30 to 50 micrograms of estrogen, these low-dose pills contain only 0.3 to 0.45 micrograms and can be increased as needed.


Question: What can I do about painful sex   since menopause?

Answer: The pain you are experiencing during sex is may be due to vaginal dryness associated with declining estrogen levels during menopause. Talk to your doctor about possible causes of painful intercourse. There are a number of lubricants you can try to relieve the symptoms. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a suggestion. There are also local estrogen treatments -- cream, tablets, and an estrogen ring -- that treat vaginal dryness. A oral drug taken once a day, Osphena, is also available. The drug makes vaginal tissue thicker and less fragile, resulting in less pain for women during sex.


Question: Should I be concerned about birth control now that I've begun menopause?

Answer: Until you have gone one year without a period, you should still use birth control if you do not want to become pregnant. After menopause, you should continue to practice safe sex techniques by using latex condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections.


Question: Are hot flashes different for different women?

Answer: While hot flashes (or flushes) are very common in perimenopause, not all women experience them, and not all flashes are of the same intensity. Hot flashes can be as mild as a light blush or severe enough to wake you from a sound sleep and be associated with perspiration (called night sweats). Most hot flashes last 30 seconds to five minutes. They usually disappear within a few years after menopause, but in some women they can continue for decades.


Question: What are some of the benefits of taking low-dose birth control pills?

Answer: In addition to preventing pregnancy, the pills can often regulate heavy or irregular menstrual periods and may provide protection from ovarian and uterine cancer. The pills may also prevent bone loss, which can lead to osteoporosis. However, women with a history of breast cancer, blood clots, or heart disease, or women who smoke, should not take these pills.


Question: Besides hormone replacement therapy, how can I treat hot flashes?

Answer: While HRT relieves hot flashes for many women, there are other drug treatments that may offer relief. These include both over-the-counter and prescription therapies you may recognize for their more common medical uses. Over-the-counter therapies include various vitamins, ibuprofen products, and soy protein found in foods. Prescription treatments include: HRT Low-dose depression drugs fluoxetine ( Prozac), paroxetine ( Paxil), or venlafaxine ( Effexor) Clonidine, blood pressure medication Gabapentin, anti-seizure drug Brisdelle, a paroxetine formula specifically for hot flashes Duavee, a conjugated estrogens/bazedoxifene formula designed to treat hot flashes Natural or bioidentical supplements containing compounds that act like estrogens -- such as soybeans or wild yams -- may provide some of the benefits of estrogen in relieving menopausal symptoms.


Question: What can I do about facial hair caused by menopause?

Answer: You should always check with your doctor before using any of these supplements. There are a number of lubricants you can try to relieve the symptoms.


Question: What alternative treatments are available for menopause symptoms?

Answer: You should always check with your doctor before using any of these supplements. Botanical supplements containing compounds that act like estrogens -- such as soy -- may provide some of the benefits of estrogen in relieving menopausal symptoms, but research results are contradictory. Other botanicals, including black cohosh, have shown some promise for reducing menopausal sweats, or hot flashes. However, more research is needed to define the benefits and risks of these alternative treatments, and you should always check with your doctor before using them.


Question: Who is more likely to get open-angle glaucoma?

Answer: Open-angle glaucoma usually happens to people over 50. You often get it in both eyes, but one eye isn't as bad as the other. Family history. You're more likely to get it if other family members have it. Race. African- Americans and Hispanics get it more often than whites. It tends to affect African- Americans earlier, and there's a greater chance it will lead to blindness. This lets your doctor see your optic nerve and check on its health.


Question: Can birth defects cause osteoarthritis?

Answer: Some people are born with abnormally formed joints (congenital abnormalities) that are vulnerable to mechanical wear, causing early degeneration and loss of joint cartilage.


Question: What causes primary osteoarthritis?

Answer: Repetitive use of the joints over the years causes damage to the cartilage that leads to joint pain and swelling. In fact, next to aging, obesity is the most powerful risk factor for osteoarthritis of the knees.


Question: Can obesity cause osteoarthritis?

Answer: Repetitive use of the joints over the years causes damage to the cartilage that leads to joint pain and swelling. In fact, next to aging, obesity is the most powerful risk factor for osteoarthritis of the knees.


Question: How can I avoid scorpion stings?

Answer: To avoid stings: Wear shoes, particularly at night. Put on gloves when you work in the yard, lift rocks and logs, or collect firewood. When you camp, don't sleep on the bare ground. Shake out your shoes before you put them on, especially if you've left them outside or in a basement or garage.


Question: How can a scorpion sting affect you?

Answer: A jab from this critter's curvy tail is painful, but it rarely causes an allergic reaction. The bark scorpion, which is common in this area, has venom that causes symptoms like fast breaths, high blood pressure, a racing heart, weakness, and muscle twitches. They're light tan with a little darker back, about 2-3 inches long, and if you have a UV light, they may glow in the dark.


Question: How are punctal plugs used to treat SjÃ¶gren's syndrome?

Answer: Tiny plugs can be placed in the tear duct by your eye doctor to keep more lubrication on your eyes. It usually takes a couple of minutes in the exam chair. Surgery to slow the disappearance of tears by sealing the tear ducts with cautery is another treatment option for more severe cases when artificial tears are not sufficient.