Question: Why is calcium good for your diet?

Answer: Why It's Good for You: Your bones need it. So do your heart and other muscles. Studies have shown a link between getting enough calcium and lower blood pressure, as well as weight control.


Question: Why is vitamin A good for you?

Answer: Why It's Good for You: You need vitamin A for your vision, genes, immune system, and many other things.


Question: How much iron do you need?

Answer: How Much You Need: Men need 8 milligrams per day of iron. Women need 18 milligrams per day from ages 19 to 50 (27 grams if they're pregnant) and 8 milligrams from age 51 on (because they are no longer losing iron through menstruation).


Question: How can you get more calcium in your diet?

Answer: Here's what you need every day: Ages 19 to 50: 1,000 milligrams Ages 51 and up: 1,200 mg How to Get More of It: Three servings of low-fat dairy foods each day, as part of a balanced diet, provide you with the calcium you need. If you have a dairy allergy or lactose intolerance, you can get calcium from calcium-fortified products, dark green leafy vegetables, nuts, and seeds.


Question: Why is fiber good for your diet?

Answer: Some examples of foods that provide around 300 milligrams of calcium per serving include: 8 ounces nonfat milk or nonfat plain yogurt 8 ounces calcium-fortified orange juice 1 1/2 ounces hard cheese 8 ounces calcium-fortified soy milk, almond milk, or another milk alternative Why It's Good for You: Fiber is good for your digestion, lowering cholesterol, and managing blood sugar levels. It's filling, and it's found in foods that are low in calories, so it helps you manage your weight. Fiber can also help lower your LDL, or bad cholesterol, which could lower your risk of heart disease.


Question: How much folic acid do you need in your diet?

Answer: How Much You Need: Getting the recommended 400 micrograms of folic acid every day from supplements is a must for women who may become pregnant. ( Many prenatal vitamins have as much as 800mcg.) Folate is important throughout pregnancy, too. It's involved in cell production and guards against a certain type of anemia. Pregnant women need 600 mcg.


Question: How can fiber help with treating heart disease?

Answer: A number of studies have found that a high intake of total fiber, from foods or supplements, lowers the risk of heart disease. Although it's best to get fiber from food sources, fiber supplements can also help you get the daily fiber you need. Examples include psyllium and methylcellulose. Increase your fiber intake slowly to help prevent gas and cramping. It's also important to also increase the amount of liquids that you drink.


Question: What dietary recommendations can help with treating heart disease?

Answer: Although lowering sodium and trans fat consumption are important for lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of coronary heart disease, equally vital is increasing intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, and healthy sources of fats and proteins (as from fish, nuts, seeds, soy-based items, avocados, etc.)


Question: What are dietary supplements for heart disease?

Answer: Several dietary supplements are being studied to determine if they effectively treat coronary heart disease. They include L-carnitine, coenzyme Q10, and garlic. So far, these are not recommended for use in treating or preventing heart disease. Vitamins E and C have been studied extensively and do not appear to lower the risk of developing heart disease. In general, a person will derive the greatest benefits from vitamins and other micronutrients if they are consumed as part and parcel of whole foods.


Question: What drugs are used to treat side effects from opioid (narcotic) pain medications?

Answer: One of the reasons why your doctor needs to manage pain medications so closely is that they can cause side effects, such as: Constipation Drowsiness Nausea and vomiting The drugs lubiprostone ( Amitiza), methylnaltrexone ( Relistor), naldemedine ( Symproic), and naloxegol ( Movantik) are approved to treat constipation due to opioid use in those with chronic pain.


Question: What are some types of opioid (narcotic) pain medications?

Answer: Opioid drugs include: Codeine (only available in generic form) Fentanyl ( Actiq, Duragesic, Fentora, Abstral, Onsolis) Hydrocodone ( Hysingla, Zohydro ER) Hydrocodone/acetaminophen ( Lorcet, Lortab, Norco, Vicodin) Hydromorphone ( Dilaudid, Exalgo) Meperidine ( Demerol) Methadone ( Dolophine, Methadose) Morphine ( Kadian, MS Contin, Morphabond) Oxycodone ( Oxy Contin, Oxaydo) Oxycodone and acetaminophen ( Percocet, Roxicet) Oxycodone and naloxone Your doctor can prescribe most of these drugs to take by mouth. Fentanyl is available in a patch. A patch allows the medication to be absorbed through the skin.


Question: Which drugs are dangerous to take with opioid (narcotic) pain medications?

Answer: Opioids can be dangerous if you take them with alcohol, or with certain drugs such as: Some antidepressants Some antibiotics Sleeping pills Continue Reading Below Make sure your doctor knows all of the other medicines you're taking.


Question: How do opioid (narcotic) pain medications work?

Answer: Opioid drugs bind to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body. They tell your brain you're not in pain. They are used to treat moderate to severe pain that may not respond well to other pain medications.


Question: What are the side effects of taking opioid (narcotic) pain medications?

Answer: One of the reasons why your doctor needs to manage pain medications so closely is that they can cause side effects, such as: Constipation Drowsiness Nausea and vomiting The drugs lubiprostone ( Amitiza), methylnaltrexone ( Relistor), naldemedine ( Symproic), and naloxegol ( Movantik) are approved to treat constipation due to opioid use in those with chronic pain.


Question: What should you do if you want to change your opioid (narcotic) pain medications?

Answer: Your doctor will need to know: How your pain is responding to the drug Whether you're having any side effects Whether you have any potential interactions or medical conditions that could make you more likely to have side effects, such as sleep apnea, alcohol use, or kidney problems Whether you're taking the drug properly Never change or stop taking any opioid medicine without first checking with your doctor. If a pain medication isn't working as well as it should, your doctor may switch you to a different dose -- or add on or try another drug. When you're ready to stop taking opioids, your doctor may help wean you off them slowly -- if you have taken them for a long time -- to give your body time to adjust. Otherwise, you may have withdrawal symptoms.


Question: Does walking barefoot lead to athlete's foot?

Answer: Myth 5: You can only get athlete's foot by walking barefoot in areas where the fungus lives Walking barefoot in a locker room or public shower is one way to get athlete's foot, but it's not the only way. You can also become infected if you share a towel, socks, or shoes with someone who has athlete's foot.


Question: Can you prevent athlete's foot by showering?

Answer: Myth 3: Showering regularly can prevent athlete's foot Showering is actually one of the ways you can get athlete's foot. Step into a locker room or pool shower with bare feet and you can pick up the condition. Showering alone won't clear up the fungus that causes athlete's foot -- no matter how carefully you wash between your toes. But keeping your feet clean and dry can help prevent this fungus from returning.


Question: When should you stop using treatments for athlete's foot?

Answer: Myth 10: You can stop using medicine as soon as your symptoms clear up To prevent athlete's foot from returning, keep using the medicine for the length of time your doctor recommended.


Question: How can you tell if you have athlete's foot?

Answer: Myth 6: If you don't have peeling skin between your toes, it's not athlete's foot Athlete's foot can look different in each person. Some people do get peeling or cracking skin between their toes. Others have redness or dryness on the bottom of their feet that looks just like dry skin. If you're not sure what's going on with your feet, see a podiatrist or doctor.


Question: Is athlete's foot the same as jock itch?

Answer: Myth 2: Athlete's foot isn't the same as jock itch Actually, athlete's foot and jock itch are caused by the same fungus (called tinea), which leaves scaly patches on the skin. The conditions are named by the part of the body where they occur. On the feet, tinea infection is called athlete's foot. In the groin area, it's called jock itch.


Question: Does athlete's foot go away on its own?

Answer: Myth 9: Athlete's foot will clear up on its own Without treatment, athlete's foot will make your feet even itchier and more miserable. It can also turn into a more serious infection if you don't take care of it. Antifungal creams and pills are the best treatments for athlete's foot.


Question: How can athlete's foot spread?

Answer: Myth 7: Athlete's foot only affects the feet Athlete's foot can spread if you scratch the itch and then touch other parts of your body, including your groin (jock itch) and the skin under your arms. It can also spread to other parts of your body via contaminated sheets or clothing.


Question: What are the symptoms of motion sickness?

Answer: Some people are a little more likely to get it than others: Women, especially when they're menstruating, pregnant, or on hormone therapy People who get migraines, especially when they have one Kids ages 2 to 12 People who take certain kinds of medications -- some antibiotics, narcotics, asthma medicines, antidepressants, and even common over-the-counter drugs like ibuprofen or naproxen Nausea and vomiting are the most common symptoms caused by motion sickness, but they're not the only ones. It also can cause cold sweats, headaches, and pain. Sometimes your skin may be pale, or you might get sleepy or have more saliva. Lots of yawning can be the first sign of motion sickness. And some people get more and more irritable.


Question: Who can get motion sickness?

Answer: Anyone can get it. It happens when your brain gets conflicting information from your body, your eyes, and your inner ear (which tells your brain how your head is moving). For example, if you're on a boat, your inner ear may detect a rolling motion that your eyes can't see. That can cause motion sickness.


Question: What other drug can help with motion sickness?

Answer: The other well-known drug used to keep motion sickness under control is scopolamine ( Transderm Scop). It's an adhesive patch you put behind your ear a few hours before you think you'll need it. You have to have a prescription to get it.


Question: How can you treat motion sickness in children?

Answer: Kids shouldn't take antihistamines or scopolamine. If your child is between the ages of 2 and 12, dimenhydrinate ( Dramamine) or diphenhydramine ( Benadryl) might be helpful. Try a test dose before you leave home, though, because some children can be sensitive to them. As with all drugs -- including over-the-counter antihistamines -- check with your doctor before you take them or give them to your child.


Question: How can anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL) show up?

Answer: ALCL can show up in two ways: In the skin, it's called cutaneous ALCL. It usually grows slowly. In the lymph nodes and other organs, it's called systemic ALCL. It often spreads quickly.


Question: What causes anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL)?

Answer: Do they itch?


Question: How can anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL) affect you?

Answer: ALCL is a serious illness. It can be fast growing, and it often returns. Treatments can help you fight it. Other therapies can help you feel better. Scientists are still looking for new and better ways to treat both the disease and the symptoms. When you have lymphoma, cells called lymphocytes grow out of control. These are white blood cells that usually fight infection. With ALCL, they build up in small glands called lymph nodes or in other parts of your body, like your lungs or skin.


Question: What are the stages of anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (ALCL)?

Answer: These tests look to see where and how much the cancer has spread. This is called staging. It helps you and your doctor decide the right treatment. Stage I. Cancer is found in lymph nodes in only one part of the body, like the neck or groin. Stage II. Cancer is found in two or more groups of lymph nodes. All of the lymph nodes are either above or below the diaphragm, a sheet of muscle between your chest and stomach. Stage III. Cancer is found in lymph nodes both above and below the diaphragm. Stage IV. ALCL has spread to other organs, such as the liver, bones, or lungs.


Question: I just had breast cancer surgery, will the fluid from my drainage device change colors?

Answer: The fluid color may also change from a cherry red to a yellow-red, and then to a straw color.


Question: When can I take a shower after having breast cancer surgery?

Answer: A warm shower feel nice, but wait at least a week after surgery.


Question: I just had breast cancer surgery, how should I care for my skin near my incision?

Answer: When shaving under your arm or applying deodorant, look in the mirror to avoid irritating the incision. As it heals, the incision may feel thick and tough. Massage the area with a mild lotion, vitamin E, or pure lanolin. Highly perfumed lotions and any product containing alcohol may be irritating. After several weeks, the scar will soften.


Question: What follow-up exams will I have after breast cancer surgery?

Answer: Regular follow-up visits are important after breast cancer treatment. Your doctor will watch you closely to ensure that the cancer hasn't returned. Checkups usually include exams of the chest, underarm, and neck. From time to time, you'll get a complete physical and an annual mammogram. No other regular X-rays, scans, or blood tests are usually needed.


Question: What symptoms should I tell my doctor about after breast cancer surgery?

Answer: Other physical problems your doctor should hear about are: Loss of appetite or weight Changes in menstrual periods Blurred vision Dizziness, coughing, or hoarseness Headaches Shortness of breath Digestive problems that seem unusual or that don't go away in 2-3 days


Question: How long after my breast cancer surgery will my drainage device be removed?

Answer: Usually the drainage system is removed within 1 to 3 weeks after surgery.


Question: How long will I have bruising after breast cancer surgery?

Answer: The area may be black and blue right after breast cancer surgery. This will go away in a few days.


Question: How do I care for my drainage device after having breast cancer surgery?

Answer: After your surgery, you may be discharged from the hospital with an external drainage device in place. The drains will remove and collect fluid from the surgery site. Your doctor will show you how to care for the device before you leave the hospital. This usually includes emptying the drains, measuring the fluid, and keeping an eye out for any problems.


Question: If I've just had breast cancer surgery, what medications can I take for pain?

Answer: Your doctor will give you a prescription for pain medication after breast cancer surgery. Ask about taking over-the-counter pain relievers in addition to, or instead of, your prescription pain medicine. Don't take aspirin or products with aspirin for the first 3 days after the procedure.


Question: Should I have blood taken or an injection given after breast cancer surgery?

Answer: If you have to have blood drawn or get medication in this arm, tell the health care professional that you've had breast surgery.


Question: What type of exercises should I do after breast cancer surgery?

Answer: Arm lifts. While standing or sitting on the edge of a chair, lift both arms over your head with your elbows close to your ears. Hold for a count of five and repeat. Arm swings. While standing, swing both arms forward and back from your shoulders (like a pendulum). Keep your elbows straight. Increase the distance of the swing each time. Repeat 10 times. Wall climbing. Stand facing a wall with your feet close to the wall. Put your arms out in front of you with your hands on the wall. Climb the fingertips of both hands up the wall, until your arms are stretched over your head. Climb your fingers back down the wall. Repeat 10 times, trying to reach higher each time.


Question: Can I go swimming after breast cancer surgery?

Answer: Don't go swimming until your doctor and surgeon say it's OK.


Question: When can I drive after breast cancer surgery?

Answer: Ask your doctor before you get back behind the wheel. Most women can start driving again 10-14 days after surgery.


Question: How is asthma that causes shortness of breath treated?

Answer: In addition to shortness of breath, it can cause: Coughing Tightness in the chest Wheezing To keep it under control, work with your doctor to create a treatment plan. First, avoid all triggers except exercise, which is important for your overall health. You can try two kinds of medicines. One is for long-term control and the other is for quick relief.


Question: How is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) that causes shortness of breath treated?

Answer: Some other signs of COPD are: Coughing Frequent respiratory infections Blue lips or fingernails Fatigue Too much phlegm or mucus Wheezing COPD can be managed with medication, but there's no cure, and it gets worse over time. A change in lifestyle, including exercise and eating right, can help. You may need doses of extra oxygen from a tank or another device. Your doctor might recommend surgery to repair your damaged lungs.


Question: What can you do about shortness of breath?

Answer: Don't ignore your breathing troubles or put off getting help. Your body is trying to tell you something important. Get in touch with your doctor to find the source of the problem and learn how to get relief. Once you've got a diagnosis, you'll be one step closer to breathing easier.


Question: What does cortisol do?

Answer: Cortisol also helps your body deal with stress. Among its jobs: Controls your blood pressure and your heart rate Controls how your immune system deals with viruses, bacteria, and other threats Puts more sugar in your bloodstream to give you more energy Adjusts how your body breaks down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats Aldosterone keeps the sodium and potassium in your blood balanced, which helps control your blood pressure and the balance of fluids in your body.


Question: What do adrenal glands do?

Answer: Your adrenal glands have two jobs. The first is to make adrenaline, a hormone your body creates in times of stress. But the more important job is making two steroid hormones, cortisol and aldosterone.


Question: What happens if the adrenal glands don't make enough cortisol and aldosterone?

Answer: When there's not enough of these hormones, your body has trouble with these basic functions. That causes the symptoms of adrenal insufficiency -- fatigue, muscle weakness, low appetite, weight loss, and belly pain, among others.


Question: What are complications related to obstructive sleep apnea?

Answer: Increasing evidence suggests that obstructive sleep apnea is strongly associated with conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension), stroke, heart attack, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease, nocturnal angina, heart failure, hypothyroidism, and an abnormal heart rhythm. About half of sleep-apnea patients have hypertension, and untreated obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of heart-related illness and death. In addition, obstructive sleep apnea is associated with excessive daytime sleepiness, which increases the risk for motor vehicle accidents and depression. Some complications may be related to the release of stress hormones, which may be triggered by frequent decreases in blood oxygen levels and reduced sleep quality. Stress hormones can increase heart rate and also can lead to the development or worsening of heart failure.


Question: Who is most likely to get obstructive sleep apnea?

Answer: In middle-aged adults, the prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea is estimated to be 4%-9%, although the condition is often undiagnosed and untreated. Among people over age 65, it's estimated that at least 10% have the condition. Aging affects the brain's ability to keep upper airway throat muscles stiff during sleep, increasing the likelihood that the airway will narrow or collapse. Obstructive sleep apnea is up to four times as common in men as in women, but women are more likely to develop sleep apnea during pregnancy and after menopause. In older adults, the gender gap narrows after women reach menopause.


Question: What are other risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea?

Answer: In addition to obesity, other anatomical features associated with obstructive sleep apnea -- many of them hereditary -- include a narrow throat, thick neck, and round head. Contributing factors may include hypothyroidism, excessive and abnormal growth due to excessive production of growth hormone (acromegaly), and allergies and other medical conditions such as a deviated septum that cause congestion in the upper airways. In adults, smoking, excessive alcohol use, and/or the use of sedatives is often associated with obstructive sleep apnea.


Question: What are the medical treatments for obstructive sleep apnea?

Answer: Medical treatment -- which includes control of risk factors, use of continuous positive airway pressure ( CPAP) or oral appliances, and surgery -- may improve signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea and its complications.


Question: What is the most common cause of obstructive sleep apnea in children?

Answer: In children, causes of obstructive sleep apnea often include enlarged tonsils or adenoids and dental conditions such as a large overbite. Less common causes include a tumor or growth in the airway, and birth defects such as Down syndrome and Pierre- Robin syndrome. Down Syndrome causes enlargement of the tongue, adenoids and tonsils and there is decreased muscle tone in the upper airway. Pierre- Robin syndrome actually has a small lower jaw and the tongue tends to ball up and fall to the back of the throat. Although childhood obesity may cause obstructive sleep apnea, it's much less commonly associated with the condition than adult obesity.


Question: Who is least likely to get obstructive sleep apnea?

Answer: Postmenopausal women who receive hormone replacement therapy are significantly less likely than those who don't to develop obstructive sleep apnea, suggesting that progesterone and/or estrogen may be protective. But hormone replacement therapy is not considered to be an appropriate therapy for the condition, because it can affect health in other ways.


Question: What can untreated obstructive sleep apnea lead to?

Answer: Regardless of age, untreated obstructive sleep apnea can lead to serious complications, including cardiovascular disease, accidents, and premature death. So it's important that anyone with signs and symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea -- especially loud snoring and repeated nighttime awakenings followed by excessive daytime sleepiness -- receive appropriate medical evaluation.


Question: What should your blood pressure be to control for diabetes and high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Answer: Readings vary, but most people with diabetes should have a blood pressure of no more than 130/80. The first, or top, number is the "systolic pressure," or the pressure in your arteries when your heart squeezes and fills the vessels with blood. The second, or bottom, number is the "diastolic pressure," or the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats, filling itself with blood for the next contraction. When it comes to preventing diabetes complications, normal blood pressure is as important as good control of your blood sugar levels.


Question: How can high blood pressure (hypertension) affect you?

Answer: Compared to those with normal blood pressure readings, people with hypertension more often have: Coronary artery disease or heart disease Strokes Peripheral vascular disease, hardening of the arteries in the legs and feet Heart failure Even blood pressure that's at the higher end of normal (120/80 to 129/80), called elevated, impacts your health. Studies show that you have a two to three times greater chance of getting heart disease over 10 years.


Question: What should your blood pressure be?

Answer: Readings vary, but most people with diabetes should have a blood pressure of no more than 130/80. The first, or top, number is the "systolic pressure," or the pressure in your arteries when your heart squeezes and fills the vessels with blood. The second, or bottom, number is the "diastolic pressure," or the pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats, filling itself with blood for the next contraction. When it comes to preventing diabetes complications, normal blood pressure is as important as good control of your blood sugar levels.


Question: What are the symptoms of high blood pressure (hypertension)?

Answer: Usually, high blood pressure has no symptoms. That's why you need to check your blood pressure regularly. Your doctor will probably measure it at every visit, and you may need to check it at home, too.


Question: How is high blood pressure related to diabetes?

Answer: High blood pressure (hypertension) can lead to many complications of diabetes, including diabetic eye disease and kidney disease, or make them worse. Most people with diabetes will eventually have high blood pressure, along with other heart and circulation problems. Diabetes damages arteries and makes them targets for hardening, called atherosclerosis. That can cause high blood pressure, which if not treated, can lead to trouble including blood vessel damage, heart attack, and kidney failure.


Question: Are there warning signs of panic attacks?

Answer: The physical changes may start about an hour before an attack. In one study, people with panic disorder wore devices that tracked their heart activity, sweating, and breathing. The results showed lower-than-normal levels of carbon dioxide, a sign of rapid, deep breathing that can leave you breathless, as early as about 45 minutes before the panic attack.


Question: What type of diet can help control symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: What you put on your plate may help you manage the way RA makes you feel. Food won't cure your disease, but a meal plan like the Mediterranean diet can lower inflammation and control some of your symptoms.


Question: Does diet affect rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: What you put on your plate may help you manage the way RA makes you feel. Food won't cure your disease, but a meal plan like the Mediterranean diet can lower inflammation and control some of your symptoms.


Question: Does going gluten-free help ease symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: If you decide to give up gluten, RA shouldn't be the reason. There's no evidence that it can improve the condition or ease your symptoms.


Question: Why does the Mediterranean diet help treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: It's loaded with fruits, veggies, whole grains, healthy fats, beans, and fish. These foods have natural chemicals that help keep your inflammation in check. A Mediterranean diet also relies on olive oil, another healthy fat, to take the place of full-fat dairy products like butter. That's good if you have RA because olive oil can also lower levels of the chemicals that cause inflammation. The fruits and vegetables in the Mediterranean diet are full of antioxidants that also help curb inflammation.


Question: How does going gluten free help rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: If you decide to give up gluten, RA shouldn't be the reason. There's no evidence that it can improve the condition or ease your symptoms. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, and in many packaged and restaurant foods. If you have celiac disease and eat gluten, your small intestine gets inflamed, so you can't absorb some nutrients. RA is separate from that, and it has different causes. If you want to ditch gluten, talk to your doctor or a dietitian for tips so you get all the nutrients you need.


Question: Who is more likely to get high blood pressure?

Answer: High blood pressure is more likely in people with a family history of high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes. It's also more common in people who are: African- American Older than 55 Overweight Inactive Heavy alcohol drinkers Smokers If you eat foods high in salt, or use medications like NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen and aspirin), decongestants, and illicit drugs such as cocaine, you also have a higher chance of getting high blood pressure.


Question: What is high blood pressure?

Answer: Also known as hypertension, high blood pressure is the most common cardiovascular disease. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against your artery walls as it goes through your body. Like air in a tire or water in a hose, blood fills your arteries to a point. Just as too much air pressure can damage a tire, or too much water pushing through a garden hose can damage the hose, high blood pressure can hurt your arteries and lead to life-threatening conditions like heart disease and stroke.


Question: What can happen if high blood pressure is untreated?

Answer: Left untreated, hypertension can lead to serious problems, such as: Vision problems Heart attack Stroke Kidney failure Heart failure Critically ill patients who have very high blood pressure may have "malignant hypertension."


Question: How are inhalers used to treat asthma?

Answer: Asthma Inhalers Asthma inhalers are the most common and effective way to deliver asthma medicine to the lungs. They're available in several types that work in different ways. Some deliver one medication.


Question: How is a nebulizer used to treat asthma?

Answer: Asthma Nebulizer If you're having trouble using small inhalers, your doctor may prescribe an asthma nebulizer. This machine changes asthma medications from a liquid to a mist so it's easier to get the medicine into your lungs. It also has a mouthpiece or mask that makes it a good option for infants, small children, older adults, or anyone who has trouble using inhalers with spacers. It does take a few more minutes than using an inhaler.


Question: What are the symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive type?

Answer: A person with this type must have at least six of these nine symptoms, and very few of the symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive type: Not paying attention to detail Making careless mistakes Failing to pay attention and keep on task Not listening Being unable to follow or understand instructions Avoiding tasks that involve effort Being distracted Being forgetful Losing things that are needed to complete tasks To have this type, a person has to have at least six of these nine symptoms, and very few of the symptoms of inattentive type: Fidgeting Squirming Getting up often when seated Running or climbing at inappropriate times Having trouble playing quietly Talking too much Talking out of turn or blurting out Interrupting Often âon the goâ as if âdriven by a motorâ This is the most common type of ADHD.


Question: Is there only one kind of ADHD?

Answer: Everyone is different. The American Psychiatric Association has identified three types.


Question: What is the most common type of ADHD?

Answer: A person with this type must have at least six of these nine symptoms, and very few of the symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive type: Not paying attention to detail Making careless mistakes Failing to pay attention and keep on task Not listening Being unable to follow or understand instructions Avoiding tasks that involve effort Being distracted Being forgetful Losing things that are needed to complete tasks To have this type, a person has to have at least six of these nine symptoms, and very few of the symptoms of inattentive type: Fidgeting Squirming Getting up often when seated Running or climbing at inappropriate times Having trouble playing quietly Talking too much Talking out of turn or blurting out Interrupting Often âon the goâ as if âdriven by a motorâ This is the most common type of ADHD. People with it have symptoms of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive types.


Question: What are the symptoms of inattentive type ADHD?

Answer: A person with this type must have at least six of these nine symptoms, and very few of the symptoms of hyperactive-impulsive type: Not paying attention to detail Making careless mistakes Failing to pay attention and keep on task Not listening Being unable to follow or understand instructions Avoiding tasks that involve effort Being distracted Being forgetful Losing things that are needed to complete tasks To have this type, a person has to have at least six of these nine symptoms, and very few of the symptoms of inattentive type: Fidgeting Squirming Getting up often when seated Running or climbing at inappropriate times Having trouble playing quietly Talking too much Talking out of turn or blurting out Interrupting Often âon the goâ as if âdriven by a motorâ This is the most common type of ADHD.


Question: Are there different types of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?

Answer: When it comes to ADHD, no one diagnosis or treatment fits all. Everyone is different. The American Psychiatric Association has identified three types. Each has different symptoms, and treatments are based on those symptoms.


Question: What should I do if I have autonomic neuropathy in the urinary system?

Answer: What you should do: See your doctor. Treatments include: Vaginal estrogen creams, suppositories, and rings Medications to help sex not feel painful Lubricants In the Urinary System: Symptoms include: Trouble emptying your bladder Bloating Incontinence (leaking urine) More bathroom trips at night What you should do: Tell your doctor.


Question: What are some other types of diabetic nerve damage?

Answer: People with diabetes can also get other nerve-related conditions, such as nerve compressions (entrapment syndromes). Carpal tunnel syndrome is a very common type of entrapment syndrome. It causes numbness and tingling of in the hand and sometimes muscle weakness or pain. If you think you may have any type of nerve problem, talk with your doctor, so she can check for the cause.


Question: What are the symptoms of autonomic neuropathy in my blood vessels?

Answer: In blood vessels: Symptoms include: Blacking out when you stand up quickly Faster heartbeat Dizziness Low blood pressure Nausea Vomiting Feeling full sooner than normal If you have it: Avoid standing up too quickly.


Question: What is focal neuropathy?

Answer: This type can appear suddenly and affect specific nerves, most often in the head, torso, or leg. It causes muscle weakness or pain.


Question: What should I do if I have peripheral neuropathy?

Answer: What you should do: Check your feet and legs daily. Use lotion on your feet if they're dry. Take care of your toenails. Ask your doctor if you should go to a podiatrist. Wear shoes that fit well. Wear them all the time, so your feet don't get injured.


Question: What are the symptoms of autonomic neuropathy in the urinary system?

Answer: Treatments include: Vaginal estrogen creams, suppositories, and rings Medications to help sex not feel painful Lubricants In the Urinary System: Symptoms include: Trouble emptying your bladder Bloating Incontinence (leaking urine) More bathroom trips at night What you should do: Tell your doctor.


Question: What should men with autonomic neuropathy do?

Answer: What you should do: See your doctor, because there are other possible causes than diabetes. Treatment includes: Counseling Penile implant or injections Vacuum erection device Medication In Women: Symptoms include: Can include less vaginal lubrication and fewer or no orgasms.


Question: What are the symptoms of autonomic neuropathy in your digestive system?

Answer: In your digestive system: Symptoms include: Bloating Diarrhea Constipation Heartburn Nausea Vomiting Feeling full after small meals What you should do: You may need to eat smaller meals and take medication to treat it.


Question: What is proximal neuropathy?

Answer: Treatments may include: Medication Inserting a catheter into the bladder to release urine (self-catheterization) Surgery This type causes pain (usually on one side) in the thighs, hips, or buttocks. It can also lead to weakness in the legs. Most people with this condition need treatment, such as medication and physical therapy, for their weakness or pain.


Question: What are the symptoms of autonomic neuropathy in men?

Answer: In Men: Symptoms include: He may not be able to have or keep an erection, or he may have âdryâ or reduced ejaculations.


Question: When do you need an MRI for knee pain?

Answer: This test can help your doctor see what might be causing your symptoms. MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. It's a type of scan that uses a magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. Unlike an X-ray, which takes pictures of your bones, a knee MRI lets your doctor see your bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and even some blood vessels. The test can show a range of problems, including: Damaged cartilage Torn tendons or ligaments Bone fractures Osteoarthritis Infections Tumors Your doctor may also order an MRI to see if you need knee surgery, or to see how well you're healing after surgery.


Question: What metal items do you need to take off before you get a knee MRI?

Answer: You should not wear metal during the scan. It can interfere with the machine's magnetic field. Be sure to remove any items with metal before the exam, such as: Jewelry Hairpins Zippers Body piercings Watches Hearing aids Pocketknives Eyeglasses If you have metal inside your body, like from shrapnel or a medical device, be sure to tell your doctor or the technologist about it before you have the MRI.


Question: Can you get a knee MRI if you're pregnant?

Answer: Pregnancy: Let your doctor know if there's any chance you're pregnant. While MRIs are considered safe for pregnant women, they're usually not recommended during the first trimester. Pregnant women should not get an injection of contrast dye unless it's absolutely necessary.


Question: Can you get a knee MRI if you're claustrophobic?

Answer: But keep these concerns in mind: Claustrophobia: Tell your doctor if you have fear of tight spaces. You may need to take medicine before the test to calm your anxiety. The MRI technologist does not provide this medicine, so you'll need to mention it to your doctor beforehand.


Question: What problems can be shown in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)?

Answer: Unlike an X-ray, which takes pictures of your bones, a knee MRI lets your doctor see your bones, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and even some blood vessels. The test can show a range of problems, including: Damaged cartilage Torn tendons or ligaments Bone fractures Osteoarthritis Infections Tumors Your doctor may also order an MRI to see if you need knee surgery, or to see how well you're healing after surgery.


Question: What medicines are used to treat moderate to severe cancer pain?

Answer: Moderate to Severe Pain Narcotic pain relievers: These drugs include codeine, morphine ( Kadian, MS Contin), hydrocodone ( Hysingla, Lortab, Norco, Vicodin, Zohydro ER), hydromorphone ( Dilaudid, Exalgo), fentanyl ( Duragesic), oxycodone ( Oxy Contin), and tramadol. Narcotic pain relievers require a prescription and may be used along with mild pain relievers for moderate to severe pain.


Question: What causes cancer pain, and what do the symptoms depend on?

Answer: There are many causes of cancer pain, but often cancer pain occurs when a tumor presses on nerves or body organs or when cancer cells invade bones or body organs. Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery also may cause pain. The symptoms of cancer pain vary from person to person. The amount of pain may depend on the type of cancer, the stage or extent of the disease, and the person's pain threshold (tolerance for pain). Pain can range from mild and occasional to severe and constant.


Question: When can I expect pain from my cancer, and whatâs the best way to control it?

Answer: The majority of people with cancer will experience pain at some time or another. The pain can result from the cancer itself, or from the cancer's treatment. In addition, some people who have been cured of their cancer can continue to suffer from pain. Cancer pain, or the discomfort that stems from cancer and its treatment, can be controlled most of the time. There are many different medicines and methods available to control cancer pain. People who have cancer and are feeling pain need to inform their doctor immediately. The earlier pain treatment is started, the more effective it may be.


Question: When should a girl have her first ob-gyn appointment?

Answer: The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists ( ACOG) recommends that girls have their first ob-gyn visit when they're 13 to 15 years old or they become sexually active, whichever comes first. The first visit for teens may just include a talk with the doctor and no exam.


Question: What is the difference between a gynecologist, obstetrician, and an ob-gyn?

Answer: Obstetricians care for women during their pregnancy and just after the baby is born. They also deliver babies. An ob-gyn is trained to do all of these things.


Question: What does an ob-gyn do?

Answer: Your ob-gyn will deal with some of the most important health issues in your life, including birth control, childbirth, and menopause. An ob-gyn can also screen for cancer, treat infections, and perform surgery for pelvic organ or urinary tract problems.


Question: What are some questions my ob-gyn will ask during my visit?

Answer: These questions might get very personal, but your doctor needs to know the answers to care for you properly. Questions can deal with: Your period and any problems with it, such as missed or heavy periods Vaginal discharge Whether you're sexually active and how active you are The number of sexual partners, both that you have now and have had in the past Sexual issues or problems Any sexually transmitted diseases ( STDs) you've had or think you might have Birth control methods Vaccine history Remember that your ob-gyn is your partner in reproductive health.


Question: What can I do to make needle pricks easier for my child with diabetes?

Answer: Kids don't like needle pricks, but there are ways to make this easier: Breathing exercises. Breathe deeply with her to help her relax. If she is calm, the pinch won't be so bad. If you have a younger child, have her blow into a bubble wand. That'll encourage her to exhale slowly and deeply. Let her choose which finger to prick. Have her count down to zero with you so she knows when she'll feel the stick.


Question: What tests should I do to check my child's blood sugar levels if they have diabetes?

Answer: Your child's doctor will tell you how often to check her blood sugar levels, what the target numbers are, and what method is best for her. You can prick her finger or test another body part, or your child may have a special blood glucose meter.


Question: Should I give my child with diabetes insulin?

Answer: It may be up to you to give her insulin, either by injection or through an insulin pump. Your doctor will let you know how much to give and when to give it.


Question: How can my child's diabetes stay under control while in school?

Answer: Make a medical management plan with the help of your child's doctor. Give her school a copy. It should spell out what the school should do for every situation. The following questions can help you get started: What treatment should she should get when her blood sugar levels are too high or too low? Can she monitor blood sugar levels herself? What are the guidelines for playing sports based on blood sugar levels or other factors? Together, you and the staff at your child's school can help make sure her diabetes stays under control.


Question: How can I get my child with diabetes to eat healthier?

Answer: If your child has diabetes, encourage the whole family to eat healthier. If everyone makes changes, she won't feel like she's missing out. Ask her doctor if she can have treats on special occasions like birthdays, and whether you'll need to adjust her insulin if she does.


Question: How can my teen manage her diabetes on her own?

Answer: If your teen is ready to manage her diabetes on her own, try these things to help her feel more responsible: Let go of control slowly, and make sure she can handle the job. Try not to nag about her self-care. Praise her when she does well. It will inspire her to want to keep up the good work. Allow her some alone time with the doctor. This can help her feel more in control of her care. Remind her that she can talk to you about anything, whenever she needs to.


Question: What HPV vaccine is recommended as a routine vaccination?

Answer: One HPV vaccine, Gardasil is recommended as a routine vaccination for males and females aged 9-26 years old. Gardasil 9 has been expanded to include use by men and women up to age 45.


Question: How effective are HPV vaccines?

Answer: Like all vaccines, these HPV vaccines are not foolproof. They do not protect against all of the 100-plus types of HPV. But both vaccines are nearly 100% effective in preventing disease caused by high-risk strains of HPV -- HPV 16 and 18 -- which together account for 70% of all cervical cancers, as well as many cancers of the vagina and vulva.


Question: Who should get the HPV vaccine Gardasil?

Answer: Ideally, the vaccine should be given to girls and boys at ages 11 to 12, according to recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the CDC. The vaccine is best given at a young age, before sexual activity begins and before exposure to HPV. The vaccine can be given up to age 26. The recommendations note that girls as young as 9 can get the vaccine, and up to age 26 if they didn't get it when they were younger. The vaccine is also being studied in older women. Gardasil and Gardasil 9 are also indicated for boys and men ages 9-26; it protects against two types of HPV that cause 90% of genital warts.


Question: How does photodynamic ("light") therapy treat Bowen's disease?

Answer: Photodynamic (âlightâ) therapy: This uses ultraviolet light rays to heal your skin. Sometimes you may put medication on your skin to make the cells more sensitive to the light.


Question: How is fluorouracil used to treat Bowen's disease?

Answer: Fluorouracil: This is medication you put on your skin. It keeps the abnormal cells from growing and reproducing. It can cause redness, soreness, or peeling after 1 or 2 weeks, but this usually goes away within a month or two.


Question: How is imiquimod used to treat Bowen's disease?

Answer: Imiquimod: This is also medication you put on your skin. Doctors don't know exactly how it works against cancer, but when it's used to treat warts, it helps your immune system fight the virus that causes them.


Question: What is curettage and electrodessication for Bowen's disease?

Answer: Besides surgery, other treatment options are: Curettage and electrodessication: You're given a shot of anesthetic to numb the area, and your doctor scrapes off the patches with a special tool. Then she'll use high-frequency electric current to stop the bleeding. She may repeat the process if there are still cancer cells in deeper tissue.


Question: What is removed in Mohs surgery for Bowen's disease?

Answer: If you have a larger patch, you may need a more detailed procedure called Mohs surgery. A thin layer of tissue is removed and looked at under a microscope. If cancer cells are seen in the outside edges of the tissue, another thin layer is removed and studied. When no cancer cells are found, the surgery is over.


Question: What causes Bowenoid papulosis?

Answer: Bowenoid papulosis is caused by HPV (human papillomavirus), which also can cause genital warts and cervical cancer. The virus is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the U. S. Sexually active people under 30 are at the highest risk for it, because it's most often passed through skin-to-skin contact.


Question: What causes Bowen's disease other than HPV?

Answer: Scientists aren't sure exactly what causes the other forms of Bowen's disease. However, long-term sun exposure and aging may increase your odds of getting many skin cancers, including this one. Poisoning with arsenic also appears to make you more likely to get this early form of skin cancer.


Question: Who's most likely to get Bowen's disease?

Answer: It usually affects white adults over age 60. Men seem to get it more often than women.


Question: How does liquid nitrogen cryosurgery treat Bowen's disease?

Answer: Liquid nitrogen cryosurgery: Your doctor sprays liquid nitrogen onto the affected area to freeze it. Afterward, the area will peel, blister, or scab over, depending on the amount used.


Question: What is removed in a surgical excision for Bowen's disease?

Answer: Bowen's disease can spread to deeper layers of your skin. Your doctor (a dermatologist, who specializes in skin care and treatment) probably will recommend something called surgical excision. She'll gently remove the cancerous area and about a quarter-inch beyond it.


Question: How does radiation therapy treat Bowen's disease?

Answer: Radiation therapy: One type uses very tiny electrically charged particles (electrons) to target and kill cancer cells. This type of radiation enters only the upper layers of your skin, so deeper tissues and organs are safe.


Question: When should I seek help for managing my stress?

Answer: You should seek help in dealing with your stress when you experience any of the following: Marked decline in work/school performance Excess anxiety Alcohol or drug abuse Inability to cope with demands of daily life Irrational fears Obsessive preoccupation with food and fear of becoming obese with no relationship to actual body weight Significant change in sleeping or eating habits Persistent physical ailments and complaints Suicidal thoughts or urges to hurt others Self-mutilation, self-destructive or dangerous behavior Sustained withdrawn mood or behavior Your personal doctor: He or she can determine if your stress is due to an anxiety disorder, a medical condition, or both and can refer you to a mental health professional, if necessary.


Question: Does everyone experience stress?

Answer: Our bodies are designed to feel stress and react to it. It keeps us alert and ready to avoid danger. But, when stress persists, the body begins to break down and illnesses, like headaches and migraines, can occur. The key to coping with stress is identifying stressors in your life, learning ways to reduce stress, and managing stress.


Question: Where do I go to get help managing stress?

Answer: You should seek help in dealing with your stress when you experience any of the following: Marked decline in work/school performance Excess anxiety Alcohol or drug abuse Inability to cope with demands of daily life Irrational fears Obsessive preoccupation with food and fear of becoming obese with no relationship to actual body weight Significant change in sleeping or eating habits Persistent physical ailments and complaints Suicidal thoughts or urges to hurt others Self-mutilation, self-destructive or dangerous behavior Sustained withdrawn mood or behavior Your personal doctor: He or she can determine if your stress is due to an anxiety disorder, a medical condition, or both and can refer you to a mental health professional, if necessary. If an emergency, call a crisis hotline, or go to the nearest emergency room.


Question: How can you cope with stress?

Answer: Emotional warning signs of stress include: Anger Inability to concentrate Unproductive worry Sadness Frequent mood swings Physical warning signs of stress include: Stooped posture Sweaty palms Chronic fatigue Weight gain or loss Behavioral warning signs of stress include: Overreacting Acting on impulse Using alcohol or drugs Withdrawing from relationships Changing jobs often Have realistic expectations; accept that there are events you cannot control. Ask others to help or assist you. Take responsibility for the situation. Engage in problem solving. Express distressing emotions. Be assertive instead of aggressive. " Assert" your feelings, opinions, or beliefs instead of becoming angry, combative, or passive. Maintain emotionally supportive relationships. Maintain emotional composure. Challenge previously held beliefs that are no longer adaptive. Directly attempt to change the source of stress. Distance yourself from the source of stress. Learn to relax. Eat and drink sensibly. Stop smoking or other bad habits. Exercise regularly. Maintain a healthy sense of self-esteem. Experts agree that coping is a process rather than an event. Thus, an individual may alternate between several of the above coping strategies in order to cope with a stressful event.


Question: What are the emotional warning signs of stress?

Answer: Emotional warning signs of stress include: Anger Inability to concentrate Unproductive worry Sadness Frequent mood swings Physical warning signs of stress include: Stooped posture Sweaty palms Chronic fatigue Weight gain or loss Behavioral warning signs of stress include: Overreacting Acting on impulse Using alcohol or drugs Withdrawing from relationships Changing jobs often Have realistic expectations; accept that there are events you cannot control.


Question: What are common causes of stress?

Answer: Common causes of stress include: Death of a loved one Crowds Heavy traffic Confrontations Marriage Pregnancy Deadlines Legal problems Job loss Moving Accidents Divorce New job Retirement Money problems Illnesses When you are not sure of the exact cause of your stress, it may help to know the warning signs of stress.


Question: Where can you go to get help managing stress?

Answer: You should seek help in dealing with your stress when you experience any of the following: Marked decline in work/school performance Excess anxiety Alcohol or drug abuse Inability to cope with demands of daily life Irrational fears Obsessive preoccupation with food and fear of becoming obese with no relationship to actual body weight Significant change in sleeping or eating habits Persistent physical ailments and complaints Suicidal thoughts or urges to hurt others Self-mutilation, self-destructive or dangerous behavior Sustained withdrawn mood or behavior Your personal doctor: He or she can determine if your stress is due to an anxiety disorder, a medical condition, or both and can refer you to a mental health professional, if necessary. If an emergency, call a crisis hotline, or go to the nearest emergency room.


Question: How can you manage migraines and headaches from stress?

Answer: Our bodies are designed to feel stress and react to it. It keeps us alert and ready to avoid danger. But, when stress persists, the body begins to break down and illnesses, like headaches and migraines, can occur. The key to coping with stress is identifying stressors in your life, learning ways to reduce stress, and managing stress.


Question: What is a free gingival graft for gum tissue?

Answer: Similar to a connective-tissue graft, free gingival grafts involve the use of tissue from the roof of the mouth. But instead of making a flap and removing tissue under the top layer of flesh, a small amount of tissue is removed directly from the roof of the mouth and then attached to the gum area being treated. This method is used most often in people who have thin gums to begin with and need additional tissue to enlarge the gums.


Question: How much will a gum tissue graft cost?

Answer: Call your dentist if you experience any unusual symptoms following surgery, including: Bleeding that won't stop after applying pressure for 20 minutes More pain, swelling, and bruising than your dentist said to expect Many dental insurance companies will pay a portion of the cost of gum grafts. If you don't have insurance, the cost of gum surgery will depend on how much work is being done. Talk to your dentist to learn about your payment options.


Question: When should you call the dentist after a gum tissue graft?

Answer: Call your dentist if you experience any unusual symptoms following surgery, including: Bleeding that won't stop after applying pressure for 20 minutes More pain, swelling, and bruising than your dentist said to expect Many dental insurance companies will pay a portion of the cost of gum grafts.


Question: How long does it take to heal from a gum tissue graft?

Answer: A gum graft may be necessary to protect your teeth from the damaging effects of gum recession, or you may choose to have one to improve the appearance of your smile.


Question: Does sweat spread HIV?

Answer: HIV doesn't live in saliva, tears, pee, or sweat -- so it can't be spread by casual contact with these body fluids.


Question: How do you get HIV?

Answer: The infection spreads from person to person when certain body fluids are shared, usually during vaginal or anal sex, or when sharing drugs you inject. It can also be passed from dirty needles from tattoos and body piercing. It can be spread through oral sex, too, although the chance is small.


Question: What happens before heartburn surgery?

Answer: Surgery may also be an option when you have: Severe inflammation of your esophagus, the tube that runs from your mouth to your stomach A narrowing of your esophagus that's not caused by cancer Barrett's esophagus, a change in the cells because of acid reflux Before surgery, you'll probably get tests to check how well the muscles in your esophagus work, including esophageal manometry and esophageal motility studies. Because you're taking a risk with any operation, you should consider surgery for acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) only after other treatments don't work, and when there's a good chance the operation will turn out well.


Question: What should you know about heartburn surgery?

Answer: Surgery may also be an option when you have: Severe inflammation of your esophagus, the tube that runs from your mouth to your stomach A narrowing of your esophagus that's not caused by cancer Barrett's esophagus, a change in the cells because of acid reflux Before surgery, you'll probably get tests to check how well the muscles in your esophagus work, including esophageal manometry and esophageal motility studies. Because you're taking a risk with any operation, you should consider surgery for acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) only after other treatments don't work, and when there's a good chance the operation will turn out well. The main surgery for stubborn heartburn is called fundoplication.


Question: Are there other factors besides the environment and genetics that can cause multiple sclerosis?

Answer: There's growing proof that hormones, including sex hormones, can affect and be affected by your immune system. For example, estrogen and progesterone, two important female sex hormones, may suppress your immune system. When these hormone levels are higher during pregnancy, women with MS tend to have less disease activity. Testosterone, the primary male hormone, may also suppress the immune response. Men's higher levels of testosterone may partly account for the fact that more than twice as many women as men have MS.


Question: Do genetics play a role in contracting multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Doctors still don't understand what causes multiple sclerosis.


Question: Does the environment affect a person's risk of multiple sclerosis?

Answer: It's especially common in cooler climates like Scotland, Scandinavia, and throughout northern Europe -- places that are farther from the equator. People who live close to the equator are least likely to get it. In the U. S., it affects white people more than other racial groups.


Question: When should I call my doctor about my newborn's tender belly button or penis?

Answer: If your baby's umbilical area or penis (for circumcised boys) becomes red or starts to ooze or bleed, it could be a sign of a bacterial infection, and it needs antibiotic treatment right away.


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

Answer: If the baby's temperature measured in the rectum is 100.4 F or higher, she has a fever. For the first 3 months of your baby's life, take temperatures in the rectum, not in the ear, mouth, or under the armpit. Fever in newborns may be due to a serious condition such as bacterial meningitis or sepsis, a bloodstream infection. Both can be life-threatening if they aren't treated right away. Before you call, write down your child's temperature and the exact time you took it.


Question: When should I call the doctor about my newborn's breathing?

Answer: Trouble breathing.


Question: What information should I have ready when I call my newborn's doctor?

Answer: Before calling your doctor, make sure to have a pen and paper to write down any instructions he might give. You should also have the following information on hand: Her temperature Any medical problems your baby has The names and doses of any medicine your newborn takes Your baby's immunization records


Question: When should I call the doctor about my newborn's constipation?

Answer: Your newborn should have a bowel movement at least once a day during the first month. If she doesn't, call your doctor, as the baby may not be eating enough. After that, a formula-fed infant should have one at least one a day, but breastfed infants can go several days or even a week without one. If your baby is 1 month or older and is constipated (no pooping, or hard stool), you can try giving apple or pear juice (1 ounce a day for every month of life, so a 2-month-old would get 2 ounces). If that doesn't help after a day or two, call your pediatrician.


Question: When should I call my doctor about about my newborn's sleeping habits?

Answer: It's true that most newborns can sleep pretty much through anything. But if your baby won't stir even after you've undressed her or prodded her a bit, it's time to call the doctor.


Question: When should I call my doctor about how much my newborn pees?

Answer: A healthy newborn has 6 to 8 wet diapers in 24 hours after day 4 of life. If she has fewer than that, she may be dehydrated. Other signs include sunken eyes and a sunken fontanel (the soft spot on your baby's head), and no tears when crying.


Question: When should I call my doctor about my newborn's eating habits?

Answer: If your newborn refuses several feedings in a row or seems to be eating less than usual, check with your doctor.


Question: When should I call the doctor about my newborn's diarrhea?

Answer: This can be hard to notice in a newborn, especially a breastfeeding one, as she has frequent, soft stools. If you suddenly notice more frequent bowel movements (for example, several while eating) or very watery ones, it could be diarrhea. Call your pediatrician if it goes on for 6-8 diaper changes.


Question: Will I need a C-section if I have Crohn's disease?

Answer: You can have a healthy pregnancy and delivery even if you have Crohn's disease.


Question: Can you continue taking Crohn's medications while pregnant?

Answer: Make sure your doctors are aware of all the medications you are taking. If you're on a drug treatment plan that works for you, they may suggest you stay on it, but they may also suggest some changes to keep you and your baby safe.


Question: Can you breastfeed your baby if you have Crohn's disease and are on medication for it?

Answer: If you are thinking about having surgery, talk to your doctor. You may want to put off surgery until after your pregnancy. When you're pregnant, have regular visits with both your OB- GYN and your gastroenterologist to monitor your baby's health and your Crohn's.


Question: What tests are not considered as safe for Crohn's during pregnancy?

Answer: It's considered safe to have a flexible sigmoidoscopy, where a tube with a camera is placed in your colon to look for any problems. It is probably not a good idea to have a colonoscopy. The tests take a long time and patients usually get drugs to put them to sleep. You should also avoid X-rays and CT scans if possible. The radiation isn't good for a developing baby.


Question: How will doctors diagnose psoriasis?

Answer: In most cases, your primary care doctor or dermatologist will be able to diagnose psoriasis by examining your skin. However, since psoriasis can look like eczema and other skin diseases, diagnosing it can sometimes be difficult. If your doctor isn't sure whether you have psoriasis, he or she may order a biopsy.


Question: What are the side effects of vitamin K?

Answer: Group Adequate Intake Children 0-6 months 2 micrograms/day Children 7-12 months 2.5 micrograms/day Children 1-3 30 micrograms/day Children 4-8 55 micrograms/day Children 9-13 60 micrograms/day Girls 14-18 75 micrograms/day Women 19 and up 90 micrograms/day Women, pregnant or breastfeeding (19-50) 90 micrograms/day Women, pregnant or breastfeeding (under 19) 75 micrograms/day Boys 14-18 75 micrograms/day Men 19 and up 120 micrograms/day There have been no adverse effects of vitamin K seen with the levels found in food or supplements. However, this does not rule out danger with high dose. Researchers have not set a maximum safe dose.


Question: Where can you get vitamin K naturally?

Answer: Good natural food sources of vitamin K include: Vegetables like spinach, asparagus, and broccoli Legumes like green beans You can also meet your daily requirement with foods that have lesser amounts of vitamin K: Eggs Strawberries Meat like liver Side effects of oral vitamin K at recommended doses are rare.


Question: How effective is vitamin K?

Answer: Many drugs can interfere with the effects of vitamin K. They include antacids, blood thinners, antibiotics, aspirin, and drugs for cancer, seizures, high cholesterol, and other conditions.


Question: What is vitamin K?

Answer: Vitamin K is actually a group of compounds. The most important of these compounds appears to be vitamin K1 and vitamin K2. Vitamin K1 is obtained from leafy greens and some other vegetables. Vitamin K2 is a group of compounds largely obtained from meats, cheeses, and eggs, and synthesized by bacteria. Vitamin K1 is the main form of vitamin K supplement available in the U. S. Recently, some people have looked to vitamin K2 to treat osteoporosis and steroid-induced bone loss, but the research is conflicting.


Question: When might you have a vitamin K deficiency?

Answer: While vitamin K deficiencies are uncommon, you may be at higher risk if you: Have a disease that affects absorption in the digestive tract, such as Crohn's disease or active celiac disease Take drugs that interfere with vitamin K absorption Are severely malnourished Drink alcohol heavily In these cases, a health care provider might suggest vitamin K supplements.


Question: What are the basic elements of blood?

Answer: Most people have about 4-6 liters of blood. Your blood is made up of different kinds of cells that float in a fluid called plasma: â Your red blood cells deliver oxygen to the various tissues in your body and remove carbon dioxide. â Your white blood cells destroy invaders and fight infection. â Your platelets help your blood to clot. â Your plasma is a fluid made up of proteins and salts. What makes your blood different from someone else's is your unique combination of protein molecules, called antigens and antibodies. Antigens live on the surface of your red blood cells. Antibodies are in your plasma. The combination of antigens and antibodies in your blood is the basis of your blood type.


Question: Should you get up and do something if you wake up in the middle of the night?

Answer: True: If you wake up in the night and can't fall back to sleep within about 15-20 minutes, get out of bed and do something relaxing. Do not sit in bed and watch the clock. Experts recommend going into another room to read or listen to music. Return to bed only when you feel tired.


Question: Does insomnia mean you only have difficulty falling asleep?

Answer: False: One or more of the following four symptoms are usually associated with insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep Waking up too early and not being able to get back to sleep Frequent awakenings Waking up feeling unrefreshed Daytime sleepiness means a person is not getting enough sleep.


Question: Can you cheat the amount of sleep you get?

Answer: False: Sleep experts say that most adults need between seven and nine hours of sleep each night for optimal health. Getting fewer hours of sleep will eventually need to be replenished with additional sleep in the next few nights. Our body does not seem to get used to less sleep than it needs.


Question: Does daytime sleepiness mean a person is not getting enough sleep?

Answer: False: While excessive daytime sleepiness often occurs if you don't get enough sleep, it can also occur even after a good night's sleep. Such sleepiness can be a sign of an underlying medical condition or sleep disorder such as narcolepsy or sleep apnea.


Question: Do teens need more sleep than adults?

Answer: True: Teens need at least 8.5 to 9.25 hours of sleep each night, compared to an average of seven to nine hours each night for most adults. The internal biological clocks of teenagers can keep them awake later in the evening and can interfere with waking up in the morning.


Question: Are health problems related to the amount and quantity of a person's sleep?

Answer: False: More and more scientific studies are showing correlations between poor quality sleep and/or insufficient sleep with a variety of diseases, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression. For example, insufficient sleep can impair the body's ability to use insulin, which can lead to the development of more severe diabetes. Patients with poorly controlled diabetes and sleep apnea have improvement of blood sugar control when treated for sleep apnea. This is also found in patients with high blood pressure and sleep apnea. When the sleep apnea is treated, the blood pressure also improves. In addition, too little sleep may decrease growth hormone secretion, which has been linked to obesity.


Question: Does your brain rest during sleep?

Answer: False: The body rests during sleep, not the brain. The brain remains active, gets recharged, and still controls many body functions including breathing during sleep.


Question: Can snoring be harmful?

Answer: True: Aside from bothering other people, snoring is not harmful. However, it can be a sign of sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that is associated with significant medical problems such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Sleep apnea is characterized by episodes of reduced or no airflow throughout the night. People with sleep apnea may remember waking up frequently during the night gasping for breath.


Question: Do older people need less sleep?

Answer: False: The average adult needs a total sleep time of seven to nine hours per day. While sleep patterns usually change as we age, the amount of sleep we generally need does not. Older people may sleep less at night due, in part, to frequent night waking, but their need for sleep is no less than that of younger adults.


Question: Does getting too little sleep impact weight?

Answer: True: How much a person sleeps at night can impact their weight. This is because the amount of sleep a person gets can affect certain hormones, specifically the hormones leptin and ghrelin, that affect appetite. Leptin and ghrelin work in a kind of "checks and balances" system to control feelings of hunger and fullness. Ghrelin, which is produced in the gastrointestinal tract, stimulates appetite, while leptin, produced in fat cells, sends a signal to the brain when you are full. When you don't get enough sleep, it drives leptin levels down, which means you don't feel as satisfied after you eat, and increases ghrelin levels, stimulating your appetite so you want more food. The two combined can set the stage for overeating, which in turn may lead to weight gain.


Question: How are osteoporosis and hormone therapy for prostate cancer related?

Answer: Hormone Therapy for Prostate Cancer Brittle bones can be a side effect of hormone therapy treatment for prostate cancer.


Question: Can antipsychotic drugs cause weight gain and increase cholesterol levels?

Answer: Antipsychotics used to treat bipolar disorder include: aripiprazole ( Abilify) asenapine ( Saphris) cariprazine ( Vraylar) clozapine ( Clozaril) lurasidone ( Latuda) olanzapine ( Zyprexa) quetiapine ( Seroquel) risperidone ( Risperdal) ziprasidone ( Geodon) Certain antipsychotic drugs cause significant weight gain and high cholesterol levels, and they may increase the risk of diabetes. People considering an antipsychotic for bipolar disorder should be screened for their risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, according to a study published in Diabetes Care.


Question: Can antipsychotic drugs stabilize moods on their own?

Answer: As a result, they may be used alone as long-term treatment for people who don't tolerate or respond to lithium and anticonvulsants.


Question: What are common side effects of antipsychotic medications?

Answer: Common side effects of antipsychotic medications include: Blurred vision Dry mouth Drowsiness Muscle spasms or tremors Weight gain Note: Clozaril is not used often, despite its effectiveness for bipolar disorder.


Question: What are the types of antipsychotics that treat bipolar disorder?

Answer: Antipsychotics used to treat bipolar disorder include: aripiprazole ( Abilify) asenapine ( Saphris) cariprazine ( Vraylar) clozapine ( Clozaril) lurasidone ( Latuda) olanzapine ( Zyprexa) quetiapine ( Seroquel) risperidone ( Risperdal) ziprasidone ( Geodon) Certain antipsychotic drugs cause significant weight gain and high cholesterol levels, and they may increase the risk of diabetes.


Question: For people with bipolar disorder, what are antipsychotics used for?

Answer: In people with bipolar disorder, antipsychotics are also used "off label" as sedatives, for insomnia, for anxiety, and/or for agitation. Often, they are taken with a mood-stabilizing drug and can decrease symptoms of mania until mood stabilizers take full effect.


Question: What are warnings signs after an adenoidectomy?

Answer: If you notice bright red blood coming from your child's mouth or nose, call the doctor right away or take your child to the emergency room. This may indicate the scabs have come off too soon. Small spots of blood in the nose or in the saliva may be expected. Also, if breathing becomes so difficult that your child is wheezing, seek immediate medical care. This may be a sign of excessive swelling in the surgical area and should be looked at immediately. Surgery should never be taken lightly. Make sure you have all your questions answered before making a decision and, if you have any doubts, seek a second opinion from another qualified doctor.


Question: What is recovery like after an adenoidectomy?

Answer: After surgery, your child may feel nauseous until the anesthesia completely wears off. In the week following the adenoidectomy, your child may experience the following: Sore throat: Your child's throat may be sore for seven to ten days following the procedure and eating can be uncomfortable. Fever: Your child may have a low fever several days after the surgery. If the fever gets higher than 102 F, call the doctor. Seek medical attention if fever is accompanied by other symptoms such as lethargy, nausea, vomiting, headache, or stiff neck. Mouth breathing: Mouth breathing and snoring may occur following the surgery, due to swelling in the throat. Breathing should return to normal once swelling goes down, usually 10 to 14 days after surgery. Seek medical attention if there is difficulty breathing. Pain: Some throat and ear pain is normal for a few weeks following surgery. The doctor should prescribe medicine to help control pain. Scabs in the mouth: Thick, white scabs will develop where the tonsils and/or adenoids were removed. This is normal and most scabs fall off in small pieces within 10 days after surgery. Do not let your child pick at the scabs. These scabs may also cause bad breath.


Question: What are adenoids?

Answer: Adenoids are a mass of tissue that, along with your tonsils, help keep you healthy by trapping harmful germs that pass through the nose or mouth. Your adenoids also produce antibodies to help your body fight infections. Unlike tonsils, which can be easily seen by opening your mouth, you cannot see the adenoids. A doctor has to use a small mirror or special instrument with a light to see the adenoids. Sometimes X-rays may be taken to see them more clearly. While adenoids play an important role in keeping a person healthy, as you get older, adenoids become less important, because your body is able to fight infection in other ways. In fact, adenoids often get smaller around age 5 or 6 and virtually disappear by the teen years.


Question: What are other symptoms of adenoiditis related to nasal congestion?

Answer: Symptoms of adenoiditis can vary depending on what is causing the infection, but may include: sore throat stuffy nose swollen glands in the neck ear pain and other ear problems When the nose is stuffy, breathing through it can be a challenge. Other symptoms of adenoiditis related to nasal congestion include: breathing through the mouth speaking with a nasal sound, as if you are speaking with a pinched nose difficulty sleeping snoring or sleep apnea (a condition where you stop breathing for a short amount of time during sleep) Adenoiditis is treated with antibiotics.


Question: What are the symptoms of adenoiditis?

Answer: Symptoms of adenoiditis can vary depending on what is causing the infection, but may include: sore throat stuffy nose swollen glands in the neck ear pain and other ear problems When the nose is stuffy, breathing through it can be a challenge.


Question: What are some tips to ease your child's recovery after an adenoidectomy?

Answer: Here are some tips to ease your child's recovery following adenoidectomy: Feed your child soft foods, such as scrambled eggs, Jell- O, soup, and popsicles. However, do not let your child eat or drink milk products for the first 24 hours following surgery. After that, ice cream, pudding, and yogurt are OK. Make sure your child drinks plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Have your child rest as much as possible for the first few days following surgery. Your child should be able to return to school once he or she can eat regular foods again, is no longer on pain medication, and is able to sleep soundly through the night.


Question: Can the drugs that are used to treat bipolar disorder be dangerous?

Answer: Preliminary studies also suggest that the atypical antipsychotic cariprazine ( Vraylar) also may have value for treating bipolar depression Some of these drugs can potentially become toxic if doses get too high. Therefore, they need to be monitored periodically with blood tests and clinical assessments by the prescriber. Because it is often difficult to predict which patient will react to what drug or what the dosage should ultimately be, the psychiatrist will often need to experiment with several different medications when beginning treatment.


Question: When is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) used to treat bipolar disorder?

Answer: Electroconvulsive therapy ( ECT) is sometimes used for severely manic or depressed patients and for those who don't respond to medication or for those women who, while pregnant, experience symptoms. Because it can act quickly, it may be especially helpful for severely ill patients who are at high risk for attempting suicide. ECT fell out of favor in the 1960s partly due to distorted, negative portrayals of its use in the media. But modern procedures have been shown to be both safe and highly effective. The patient is first anesthetized and a muscle relaxant is given. Then, while the patient is asleep, a small electric current is passed through electrodes placed on the scalp to produce a grand mal seizure of short duration -- less than one minute. A course of treatment usually involves 6-12 treatments, typically administered three times per week. During the course of ECT treatments -- usually two to four weeks -- lithium and other mood stabilizers are sometimes discontinued to minimize side effects. They are then resumed after completion of the treatment.


Question: What is important when helping and supporting someone with bipolar disorder?

Answer: In the manic phase of bipolar disorder, patients may engage in risky activities, such as fast driving or certain risky sports. They should be monitored and prevented from taking chances, especially in a car. Drinks and foods containing caffeine -- tea, coffee, and cola-- should be allowed in moderation. Avoid alcohol at all times. It is very important for a patient experiencing manic symptoms to receive prompt psychiatric assessment. Family members may need to contact the doctor, because oftentimes patients in a manic or hypomanic episode have little insight into their illness and may refuse treatment. But prompt intervention, including possible medication adjustments at an early point in an episode, may prevent further problems and the need for hospitalization.


Question: If I have bipolar disorder, is it important to have support from family?

Answer: The family or spouse of a patient should be involved with any treatment. Having full information about the disease and its manifestations is important for both the patient and loved ones.


Question: What are some of the drugs that help treat bipolar disorder?

Answer: Valproic acid ( Depakote) is a mood stabilizer that is helpful in treating the manic or mixed phases of bipolar disorder, along with carbamazepine ( Equetro), another antiepileptic drug. These drugs may be used alone or in combination with lithium to control symptoms. In addition, newer drugs are coming into the picture when traditional medications are insufficient. Lamotrigine( Lamictal), another antiepileptic drug, has been shown to have value for preventing depression and, to a lesser degree, manias or hypomanias. Other antiepileptic drugs, such as gabapentin( Neurontin), oxcarbazepine ( Trileptal), or topiramate ( Topamax), are regarded as experimental treatments that sometimes have value for symptoms of bipolar disorder or other conditions that often occur with it. Haloperidol ( Haldol Decanoate) or other newer antipsychotic medications, such as aripiprazole ( Abilify), asenapine ( Saphris), olanzapine ( Zyprexa, Zyprexa Relprevv, and Zyprexa Zydis) or risperidone( Risperdal), are often given to patients as an alternative to lithium or divalproex. They also may be given to treat acute symptoms of mania -- particularly psychosis -- before lithium or divalproex ( Depakote) can take full effect, which may be from one to several weeks. Another antipsychotic, lurasidone ( Latuda), is approved for use in bipolar I depression as is the combination of olanzapine plus fluoxetine (called Symbyax). The antipsychotic quetiapine ( Seroquel) is approved to treat bipolar I or II depression. Preliminary studies also suggest that the atypical antipsychotic cariprazine ( Vraylar) also may have value for treating bipolar depression Some of these drugs can potentially become toxic if doses get too high.


Question: What is the most typical treatment for bipolar disorder?

Answer: Typically, treatment entails a combination of at least one mood-stabilizing drug and/or atypical antipsychotic, plus psychotherapy. The most widely used drugs for the treatment of bipolar disorder include lithium carbonate and valproic acid (also known as Depakote or generically as divalproex). Lithium carbonate can be remarkably effective in reducing mania, although doctors still do not know precisely how it works. Lithium may also prevent recurrence of depression, but its value seems greater against mania than depression; therefore, it is often given in conjunction with other medicines known to have greater value for depression symptoms, sometimes including antidepressants.


Question: What should a home environment be like for someone with bipolar disorder?

Answer: If someone you live with has bipolar disorder, maintain a calm environment, particularly when that person is in a manic phase. Keep to regular routines for daily activities -- sleeping, eating, and exercise. Adequate sleep is very important in preventing the onset of episodes. Avoid excessive stimulation. Parties, animated conversation, and long periods of watching television or videos can exacerbate manic symptoms. Alcohol or illicit drug use can cause or worsen mood symptoms and make prescription medicines work less effectively.


Question: What three classes of medication is bipolar disorder treated with?

Answer: Bipolar disorder is treated with three main classes of medication: mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and, while their safety and effectiveness for the condition are sometimes controversial,antidepressants.


Question: What are the newer types of nonpharmocological treatments for depression and bipolar disorder?

Answer: The newer types of nonpharmocological treatments of depression are: VNS ( Vagus or Vagal Nerve Stimulation) involves implantation of a device that sends electrical signals to the vagus nerve in order to treat depression. TMS ( Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is a procedure which involves the use of an electromagnetic coil to create electrical currents and stimulate nerve cells in the mood centers of the brain as a treatment for depression. Light therapy has proved effective as an additional treatment when bipolar disorder has a connection to seasonal affective disorder. For those people who usually become depressed in winter, sitting for 20 minutes to 30 minutes a day in front of a special light box with a full-spectrum light can help treat depression.


Question: What are nondrug treatments for depression and bipolar disorder?

Answer: While medications are usually the cornerstone of treatment for bipolar disorder, ongoing psychotherapy is important to help patients understand and accept the personal and social disruptions of past episodes and better cope with future ones. Several specific forms of psychotherapy have been shown to help speed recovery and improve functioning in bipolar disorder, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, interpersonal/social rhythm therapy, family therapy, and group therapy. In addition, because denial is often a problem -- sticking with medications can be especially tricky in adolescence -- routine psychotherapy helps patients stay on their medications.


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.


Question: How can punctal plugs help with 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.


Question: How can good oral hygiene help with SjÃ¶gren's syndrome?

Answer: Good mouth care may not prevent a dry mouth, but it helps prevent infection and cavities. Toothpastes and oral gels are available for people with dry mouth symptoms. These products contain low doses of peroxide. ( High amounts can cause more severe dryness.) These products also may have antibacterial action to reduce the severity of dental cavities over a long period of time.


Question: What medications are used to treat SjÃ¶gren's syndrome?

Answer: Two prescription drugs, Evoxac and Salagen, stimulate saliva production and may relieve the dry mouth symptoms. In some patients, the anti-rheumatic drug Plaquenil has been beneficial in decreasing pain and salivary gland swelling. For patients with generalized symptoms, particularly when the disease affects internal organs (including the gastrointestinal system, kidneys, brain, or spinal cord), high doses of immunosuppressive drugs may be necessary. These include medicines such as prednisone and, rarely, chemotherapy-type medications such as methotrexate. Balance rest and exercise. Guided exercise programs can help patients overcome fatigue, maintain flexibility, and overcome joint and muscle pain.


Question: How is good oral hygiene used to treat SjÃ¶gren's syndrome?

Answer: Good mouth care may not prevent a dry mouth, but it helps prevent infection and cavities. Toothpastes and oral gels are available for people with dry mouth symptoms. These products contain low doses of peroxide. ( High amounts can cause more severe dryness.) These products also may have antibacterial action to reduce the severity of dental cavities over a long period of time.


Question: How does psychotherapy treat schizophreniform disorder?

Answer: Psychotherapy: The goal is to help the person recognize and learn about the illness and its treatment, set goals, and manage everyday problems related to the condition. It can also help the person handle the feelings of distress linked to the symptoms.


Question: What to expect with schizophreniform disorder?

Answer: People with schizophreniform disorder recover within 6 months. If the symptoms don't improve, the person likely has schizophrenia, which is a lifelong illness. According to the American Psychiatric Association, about two-thirds of people with schizophreniform disorder go on to develop schizophrenia.


Question: What types of medications can treat schizophreniform disorder?

Answer: Medication: Antipsychotic drugs are the main medications that doctors use to treat the psychotic symptoms of schizophreniform disorder, such as delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking.


Question: What is the treatment for schizophreniform disorder?

Answer: People with severe symptoms or who are at risk of hurting themselves or others may need to be hospitalized to get their condition under control. Medication: Antipsychotic drugs are the main medications that doctors use to treat the psychotic symptoms of schizophreniform disorder, such as delusions, hallucinations, and disordered thinking.


Question: How do doctors diagnose schizophreniform disorder?

Answer: If someone has symptoms, a doctor may use various tests -- such as brain imaging (like MRI scans) or blood tests -- to rule out a nonpsychiatric medical problem. If the doctor finds no physical reason for the symptoms, he or she may refer the person to a psychiatrist or psychologist, mental health professionals who are trained to diagnose and treat mental illnesses. They use specially designed interview and assessment tools to see if someone has a psychotic disorder. For a diagnosis of schizophreniform disorder, the symptoms can only have lasted for less than 6 months.


Question: How common is schizophreniform disorder?

Answer: In women, it most often happens between ages 24 and 35.


Question: If I have diabetes, can I wear dressy or uncomfortable shoes occasionally?

Answer: Enjoy Occasional Fancy Feet Having diabetes doesn't mean you have to wear sensible shoes every day for the rest of your life. " The need for being careful depends on how advanced the neuropathy is," Lee says. " The risks vary significantly depending on how advanced the disease is and how numb or how bad circulation is." If you have normal feeling and blood flow, it might even be OK to wear dressy shoes like high heels or pointy wing-tips for short periods of time, Lee says. Ask your foot doctor what's best for your feet, though.


Question: If I have diabetes, can I wear pointed toe shoes?

Answer: Look for shoes that don't have pointed toes. Instead, choose ones with a spacious "toe box," so your toes have plenty of wiggle room. That way they won't be crushed together. You'll have less chance of corns, calluses, and blisters that can turn into ulcers.


Question: If I have diabetes, can I buy shoes that I plan on breaking into?

Answer: Don't buy shoes that aren't comfortable, planning to break them in as you wear them. Shoes should feel good when you first try them on. If you take off new shoes after wearing them a couple of hours and find red, tender spots, don't wear them again.


Question: If I have diabetes and my feet hurt, how can I tell if it's because of the size of my shoe?

Answer: Your foot should fit comfortably on top of it with no overlap. If your foot is bigger than the insole, it will be crammed inside the shoe when you wear it. Choose a different shoe.


Question: How can diabetes affect my feet?

Answer: Shoes and Diabetes: What's on Your Feet Matters When you have diabetes, you need to take special care of your feet. That's why it's important to check your feet daily and choose your shoes wisely. Wear well-fitting, comfortable shoes to help keep small foot problems -- like a corn, blister, or a callus -- from turning into severe ones.


Question: If I have diabetes, how many pairs of shoes should I have?

Answer: Buy at least two pairs with good support. Each pair will likely have different pressure points on your feet, so change your shoes daily. Your shoes will also get to dry and air out when you don't wear them every day.


Question: If I have diabetes, can I wear slip-on shoes?

Answer: Consider laced shoes instead of slip-ons. They often provide better support and a better fit.


Question: How can I lower my chances of getting trichomoniasis?

Answer: But you can take some steps to lower your chances of getting it: Always use latex condoms, and use them the right way. This helps, but won't totally protect you because trich can infect areas that a condom doesn't cover. Also, because you can get trich just through contact, make sure to put the condom on early, before it touches the vagina. For women -- avoid douching. Your vagina has a natural balance of bacteria to keep you healthy. When you douche, you remove some of those helpful bacteria, which can raise your chances of getting an STD. Stick with just one sex partner who's been tested and doesn't have any STDs. If that doesn't work for you, think about limiting your number of sex partners. Talk openly with your sex partners about your sexual histories and potential risk of infection. This can help you make the best choice for yourself.


Question: What causes trichomoniasis?

Answer: Trich is caused by a tiny, one-celled parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Anyone who's sexually active can get it. It affects women more than men, and older women tend to get it more than younger ones.


Question: How could I get trichomoniasis?

Answer: You get trich from having sex with someone who has it. Typically, trich is passed between the penis and vagina, and it doesn't matter if a man ejaculates or not -- it can be spread just through contact. Women who have sex with women can also get trich because it can spread through vaginal contact, as well. Women typically get the infection in their vulva, vagina, cervix, or urethra. Men usually get it just inside their penis in the urethra, but they may also get it in their prostate. You don't typically get it in other parts of your body, such as your hands, mouth, or anus. The thing to keep in mind with trich is that you can spread it even if you don't have any symptoms. That also means you can get it from someone who doesn't have any symptoms.


Question: What are the symptoms of trichomoniasis?

Answer: But if you or one of your sex partners has it, it's important to get treatment. Trich raises the chances that you could get or spread other STDS including HIV.


Question: How does zinc help treat ADHD?

Answer: Some studies suggest that children with ADHD may have lower levels of zinc in their body. And some scientists say kids with the disorder who took zinc supplements along with traditional ADHD treatment had an improvement in their symptoms. Several studies have shown a drop in hyperactivity and impulsivity with zinc supplements. The same research, though, reports no change in inattentiveness, which is another key symptom of ADHD. A 2005 study in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, though, did show a link between zinc levels and teacher- and parent-rated inattention in children.


Question: Can iron help treat ADHD?

Answer: Some studies, though, suggest that children with ADHD might not have enough iron. One theory is that supplementing with iron may improve symptoms of the disorder, but that hasn't been proven.


Question: Have there been studies done on the effects of fish oil on ADHD?

Answer: A specific supplement of fish oil and evening primrose oil was used in one study. The results showed improvements with hyperactivity, inattentiveness, ability to think clearly, and overall behavior in children with ADHD who were 7 to 12 years old.


Question: How do zinc supplements affect ADHD symptoms?

Answer: Several studies have shown a drop in hyperactivity and impulsivity with zinc supplements. The same research, though, reports no change in inattentiveness, which is another key symptom of ADHD. A 2005 study in the Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, though, did show a link between zinc levels and teacher- and parent-rated inattention in children.


Question: Does St. John's wort help ADHD?

Answer: This common herbal supplement might affect brain chemicals. It's used to treat depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. But studies don't recommend using it to treat ADHD. Research shows that St. John's wort has no effect on the symptoms of the disorder.


Question: Do I need to check with my doctor if I am taking natural supplements for ADHD?

Answer: Also check with the doctor before you use any natural supplement. That includes mega-doses of vitamins or minerals. There's a chance they could do more harm than good, and they may cause problems with prescribed medications.


Question: What are other natural supplements that treat ADHD?

Answer: There's some evidence that certain natural supplements might help. A combo of American ginseng and Ginkgo leaf improved ADHD symptoms in children ages 3 to 17 in one study. More research is needed to confirm the finding, though.


Question: What foods should children or adults with ADHD eat to increase zinc levels?

Answer: Foods high in zinc include oysters and other seafood, red meat, poultry, dairy products, beans, nuts, whole grains, and fortified cereals.