Question: What questions should you ask your doctor about subconjunctival hemorrhage (bleeding in eye)?

Answer: Will I develop any scarring or permanent vision loss from this subconjunctival hemorrhage? What causes a subconjunctival hemorrhage? How can I prevent a subconjunctival hemorrhage? If the injury is related to trauma, your health care provider or eye care provider may need to examine your eye to rule out the possibility of damage to other parts of the eye.


Question: How can you get educated about breast cancer after your diagnosis?

Answer: The more information you have about what to expect, the more prepared and hopefully less stressed you'll be. Talk to your health care team about the type and stage of breast cancer you have. Ask about possible side effects. Message boards and support groups are filled with people trying to be helpful. Ask if they will pay for the second office visit.


Question: If I have diabetes, will I have the associated complications?

Answer: Too much sugar in your blood can damage nerves and blood vessels, which can lead to many different types of problems. But those complications aren't set in stone for everyone with diabetes -- there's a lot you can do to avoid them. Along with treatment, good health habits can help you keep your disease under control and keep other troubles at bay. Take care of your skin.


Question: How can you watch your blood pressure and cholesterol to prevent diabetes?

Answer: High blood pressure and high cholesterol make the problems even more likely. If they're too high, you're more likely to get other health problems, like heart disease. Try to keep your BP below 140/90, and your total cholesterol at or below 200 mg/d L. Get regular checkups.


Question: How does high blood sugar due to diabetes affect the feet?

Answer: Men with diabetes may be at risk for sexual problems, because high blood sugar can harm blood flow and damage nerves that the body needs to get and keep an erection. If you need help to quit, your doctor can recommend treatments that might work for you. Test bathwater before you get in to avoid burns on your feet.


Question: What blood pressure and cholesterol levels are least likely to cause health problems if you have diabetes?

Answer: High blood pressure and high cholesterol make the problems even more likely. If they're too high, you're more likely to get other health problems, like heart disease. Try to keep your BP below 140/90, and your total cholesterol at or below 200 mg/d L. Get regular checkups.


Question: What complications can occur from diabetes?

Answer: Too much sugar in your blood can damage nerves and blood vessels, which can lead to many different types of problems. But those complications aren't set in stone for everyone with diabetes -- there's a lot you can do to avoid them. Along with treatment, good health habits can help you keep your disease under control and keep other troubles at bay. Take care of your skin.


Question: What happens once you're in hospice?

Answer: You want relief from pain, shortness of breath, and other symptoms so that you can focus on the people and things you care about the most. A doctor -- either your own or one connected with a program -- will give medical care. Nurses will also check on you. Aides will assist with things such as bathing, dressing, cleaning, and cooking. Other services that are available include: Chaplain and spiritual services for you and your loved ones Social work and counseling Medicine to ease pain Medical equipment and supplies Advice on eating Physical and speech therapy Counseling for your loved ones Start by asking doctors, nurses, social workers, and friends for ideas.


Question: Is withdrawal a good method of birth control?

Answer: The pull out method, also called the withdrawal method, is not a reliable way to prevent pregnancy. In addition to not preventing pregnancy all that well, this isn't a good method of birth control because: It does nothing to protect you from sexually transmitted diseases ( STDs). So it can't help if there's any chance you could get something from your partner. But for couples who wouldn't mind a surprise pregnancy, the withdrawal method has benefits. It's free and convenient. It has no side effects, and you don't need to see a doctor or get a prescription.


Question: Does polycythemia vera lead to other health problems?

Answer: Blood clots can lead to life-threatening problems such as a heart attack or stroke. But your doctor will work to avoid those problems. Blood clots are the most serious concern because they can cause a stroke, heart attack, or other life-threatening problems, such as a DVT (a blood clot in your legs) or a pulmonary embolism (a blood clot that travels to your lungs). Clots can also make your spleen and liver larger than normal, giving you sharp pains in your belly. It's rare, but some people with PV get leukemia or another bone marrow illness called myelofibrosis.


Question: What causes polycythemia vera?

Answer: It's not linked to anything you do, the way smoking makes you more likely to get lung cancer. Anyone can get PV, but it's usually seen in people over 60. Men are a little more likely than women to get it. The gene changes at some point after you're born, but doctors don't know why.


Question: How can physical therapy help neck pain?

Answer: In the majority of people, certain exercises and manipulations used by these health care providers can help relieve discomfort and restore movement. Treatments such as cold or heat application, deep tissue massage, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound may be used prior to exercise.


Question: What are some tips for a healthy diabetes diet?

Answer: That's an easy way to be sure you eat plenty of fruits, veggies, whole grains, beans, nuts, and lean protein. Watch your calories. Your age, gender, and activity level affect how many you need to eat to gain, lose, or maintain your weight. Go for fiber. You can get it from foods like whole grains, fruits, veggies, beans, and nuts. If you have type 2 diabetes, a high-fiber diet can improve your blood sugar and cholesterol levels. It's always best to get fiber from food, but supplements can also help you get the daily fiber you need. Examples include psyllium and methylcellulose. Increase your fiber slowly. Otherwise, you may have gas and cramping. It's also important to drink more liquids. The Basics of a Healthy Diabetes Diet Can You Have Sugar?


Question: When should I get cataract surgery?

Answer: But as cataracts grow, they can cause more symptoms. You could have dim or blurred vision. You may also have double vision when you look at things through the eye with the cataract. These problems can make it hard to read, work on a computer, and do anything else that calls for clear eyesight. You may have poor night vision and find it harder to drive when it's dark. You may be sensitive to glare from headlights. This can keep you from being outdoors as much as you'd like. It also makes it harder to play some sports, such as skiing or golf. If you have any of these symptoms, surgery could help. Your surgeon will make a tiny cut in the front of your eye, sometimes with the help of a laser. During this time, you may also have some tearing and find it hard to see well in bright light.


Question: What is carotid artery disease?

Answer: The term refers to the narrowing of the carotid arteries. This narrowing is usually caused by the buildup of fatty substances and cholesterol deposits, called plaque. Carotid artery occlusion refers to complete blockage of the artery. When the carotid arteries are obstructed, you are at an increased risk for a stroke, the 5th leading cause of death in the U. S. The carotid arteries are two large blood vessels that supply oxygenated blood to the large, front part of the brain. Your doctor may also use a test to diagnose carotid artery disease.


Question: What are the symptoms of carotid artery disease?

Answer: Signs of a stroke may include: Sudden loss of vision, blurred vision, or difficulty in seeing out of one or both eyes Weakness, tingling, or numbness on one side of the face, one side of the body, or in one arm or leg Sudden difficulty in walking, loss of balance, lack of coordination Sudden dizziness and/or confusion Difficulty speaking (called aphasia) Confusion Sudden severe headache Problems with memory Difficulty swallowing (called dysphagia) A TIA occurs when there is low blood flow or a clot briefly blocks an artery that supplies blood to the brain. With a TIA, you may have the same symptoms as you would have for a stroke. There are often no symptoms of carotid artery disease until you have a TIA or stroke.


Question: Which drugs can reduce the risk of stroke?

Answer: Your doctor may also use a test to diagnose carotid artery disease. Your doctor may also prescribe medications to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. In some cases, warfarin ( Coumadin), a blood thinner, may be prescribed.


Question: How does diet cause Crohn's disease?

Answer: So it's important to pay attention to what you eat. That can help you control your symptoms, especially during a flare. Make sure you get enough calories and the nourishment you need.


Question: What are some concerns when using antidepressants as a form of treatment for bipolar disorder?

Answer: 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. In general, your doctor may try to keep the use of antidepressants limited and brief. Long-term treatment with antidepressants in bipolar disorder tends to be recommended only when the initial response is clear-cut and there are no current or emerging signs of mania or hypomania. Some antidepressants -- given alone or in combination with other drugs -- may trigger a manic episode or cause cycles between depression and mania to be more rapid. If an antidepressant is not clearly having a beneficial effect for bipolar depression, there is usually little reason to continue it.


Question: What should I do if my child breaks a finger?

Answer: Do not try to straighten the finger. If the bone has broken through the skin, do not touch it. Drape gauze or a clean diaper over the injury, control the bleeding, and get emergency help. Go to the pediatrician's office or the emergency room.


Question: How do I reduce swelling in my child's broken finger?

Answer: You think your child has broken a finger. If possible, keep your child's hand elevated.


Question: Where can I get help for my child's broken finger?

Answer: Do not try to straighten the finger. Go to the pediatrician's office or the emergency room.


Question: Can physical problems be signs of depression?

Answer: Make sure to tell your doctor or therapist about pain, stomach problems, sleep problems, or any other physical symptoms. In some cases, you may need treatment for these symptoms. Ask them about changes they've noticed in your behavior. They may have seen symptoms that you missed. And if you're nervous about your first appointment, ask for a friend or family member to come along.


Question: Can my child stop taking ADHD medication as they get older?

Answer: Most kids with ADHD get stimulant medication, which helps nerve cells in the brain communicate. You may not see a difference for weeks, and it may take several more to fine-tune the dose. Don't try to check this by stopping the medication on your own, though. Talk to his doctor about taking a monitored break from the drug to see what happens.


Question: How will I know if my child's ADHD medication is working?

Answer: After your child is on the medication for a while, you can each go through the list again. If a symptom isn't as strong, the drug is probably helping with it. Many parents find that after several years, the medicine that used to help their child no longer does the job. And they don't end with the school bell.


Question: How long does it take to find the right ADHD medication?

Answer: You'll need to keep a close eye on your child's symptoms. Before starting a new treatment, you and your child's teacher can make a checklist of the symptoms and how strong they are. It may be time to increase the dose or try a different drug. Talk to his doctor about taking a monitored break from the drug to see what happens.


Question: How can surgery help with treating mitral valve regurgitation?

Answer: Medications can't actually fix a valve problem, but they can target other things that make regurgitation worse. If it has to be replaced, she can implant either a man-made device or one taken from a cow, a pig, or a person who died and donated the organ. People who have had valve surgery are often asked to take antibiotics before they have dental work or other surgery to prevent endocarditis, or inflammation of the heart valves or inner lining of the heart. You should ask your doctor whether you'll need to take them.


Question: What are treatments for mitral valve regurgitation?

Answer: A doctor can figure out whether you have a mild case and might not even need treatment, or a more serious situation that will need medication or surgery. Your doctor might also want to get a CT or MRI scan of your chest to help figure out what's going on. Blood thinners can help prevent clots. You can take something if you have high blood pressure, which makes regurgitation worse. In tougher cases, you might need an operation. Sometimes, a surgeon can fix your valve.


Question: Can exercising with diabetes increase your risk of eye problems?

Answer: Talk to your doctor about what to do. They're weak and often leaky. When you jump, lift heavy weights, make jarring moves, or hold your head down (as in certain yoga poses), these fragile blood vessels could bleed. If you've had a dilated eye exam in the last year, your eye doctor can tell you if the workouts you're interested in are safe.


Question: Are fun exercise classes okay for people with diabetes?

Answer: If you're looking for a challenge -- something new or more intense -- the latest trends may have caught your eye. You've got a bunch to choose from, like barre classes that draw on dance moves, high-intensity interval training ( HIIT) that trades hardcore bursts of exercise with more moderate moves, and flexibility-boosting yoga. If all you want to do is switch from one moderate type of exercise to another, you probably don't need to discuss it with your doctor.


Question: What causes a ringworm?

Answer: Myth 1: Ringworm is caused by a worm Probably the most pervasive ringworm myth, this one stems from the condition's name. Ringworm of the nails doesn't create a ring-like pattern. The red rash can actually take a few days to appear on your skin.


Question: Can diuretics lead to muscle cramps or weaknesses?

Answer: They can be used for a long time. Muscle cramps or weakness: Make sure you're taking your potassium supplement correctly, if you've been prescribed one. Contact your doctor or nurse if these symptoms continue.


Question: What should you do before you're prescribed a diuretic?

Answer: Your doctor may recommend a diuretic if you have. Follow the directions on the label. If you're taking one dose a day, take it in the morning with your breakfast or right after. If you are taking more than one dose a day, take the last one no later than 4 p.m.


Question: What do I need to know about heart disease and diuretics?

Answer: They help your body get rid of unneeded water and salt through urine. That makes it easier for your heart to pump and to control blood pressure. Before you're prescribed a diuretic, tell your doctor if you have diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, or gout.


Question: How is fallopian tube cancer diagnosed?

Answer: You might have one or more of these tests: Pelvic exam. An ultrasound may be done using a wand on the outside of your belly. If you plan to have children, talk to your doctor about your options before you have surgery.


Question: What is a CA125 test?

Answer: Fallopian tube cancers release a protein called CA125 that can show up in your blood. Having high CA125 levels doesn't mean you definitely have cancer. Fibroids, pregnancy, and other conditions can also raise CA125 levels. You'll need other tests to confirm the diagnosis. It's used to treat early-stage fallopian tube cancers.


Question: What causes fallopian tube cancer?

Answer: This type of cancer is treatable. Doctors don't know exactly why fallopian tube cancer happens. But this hasn't been proved.


Question: Which surgeries treat fallopian tube cancer?

Answer: Fallopian tube cancer is very rare. Which type of surgery you get depends on the stage of your cancer -- its size and where it has spread. Salpingo-oophorectomy removes one or both fallopian tubes and ovaries. Surgery to remove your ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus can make it hard to get pregnant in the future. Yet it is possible to get pregnant after you're treated for fallopian tube cancer.


Question: Where can you get help for depression?

Answer: They can test you for depression and help manage your symptoms. If your depression goes untreated, it may get worse and last for months, even years. It can cause pain and possibly lead to suicide, as it does for about 1 of every 10 people with depression. Recognizing the symptoms is key. If your doctor rules out a physical cause for your symptoms, he may start you on a treatment or refer you to a mental health professional.


Question: When should you seek help for depression?

Answer: It's a normal reaction to loss, life's struggles, or injured self-esteem. But when these feelings become overwhelming, cause physical symptoms, and last for long periods of time, they can keep you from leading a normal, active life. !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } That's when it's time to seek medical help.


Question: When should I seek help for depression?

Answer: Your doctor will want to know: When your symptoms started How long they've lasted How severe they are If depression or other mental illnesses run in your family If you have a history of drug or alcohol abuse You'll also be asked if you've had similar symptoms of depression before, and if so, how it was treated. If your doctor rules out a physical cause for your symptoms, he may start you on a treatment or refer you to a mental health professional. It's important to understand that feeling depressed doesn't mean you have depression. That condition involves not only changes in mood, but also changes in sleep, energy, appetite, concentration, and motivation. If you have physical symptoms like these and find yourself feeling depressed much of the time for days or weeks, see your doctor.


Question: How can you monitor and maintain a healthy weight if you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: Eat with other people as often as you can. If you take water pills, called diuretics, you should weigh yourself every day. Contact your doctor if you gain or lose 2 pounds in one day or 5 pounds in one week. Make changes in your diet under the guidance of a health care provider. If you need to lose weight, ask about special exercises that may also strengthen your chest muscles.


Question: What foods and drinks should you avoid if you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)?

Answer: This makes breathing more difficult. To minimize gas or bloating, avoid foods and drinks such as: Beans, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower Carbonated beverages Fried, spicy, or greasy foods Avoid empty foods.


Question: How can you lower your odds of getting hepatitis C?

Answer: They're more likely to come in contact with blood and get accidental needle sticks. If you have more than one partner or sleep with people who have sexually transmitted diseases, particularly HIV, you're more likely to get hep C than people who don't. Definitely get screened if any of these things apply to you: Had a blood transfusion before 1992 Received blood products for clotting problems before 1987 Are on kidney dialysis Ever used IV drugs Have high-risk sex (multiple partners, history of sexually transmitted diseases) Live with or care for someone who has HCV Were born between 1945 and 1965 Ever shared tools to snort cocaine Were born to a mother with hepatitis C There's no effective vaccine against HCV. And if you use drugs, don't share needles, syringes, or anything that goes up your nose. Spouses, partners, and others in close contact with people who have hep C should not share toothbrushes and razors. If you have the disease, cover your wounds and throw out blood-soaked bandages, tampons, or pads. Don't let anyone else in the house touch them.


Question: How does plyometrics work to benefit my body?

Answer: The exercises you do with plyometrics mimic those dynamic moves. You might jump up and onto a box or bench, or jump over cones. Some moves will be faster than others. Every time you land from a jump, your muscles get a stretch. That gives your next jump even more power. The combination of stretching and contracting your muscles whips them into shape. Expect your legs to get in great shape from all the jumping and hopping.


Question: How often should I do plyometrics?

Answer: Every time you land from a jump, your muscles get a stretch. If you're not active now, you may need to start working on your basic fitness first and later have a pro show you how to do the moves, so you don't get injured. It's a fun alternative to an everyday strength-training workout that boosts your muscle power, strength, balance, and agility. You can either do a workout based around plyometrics, or add some plyo moves to your usual routine without giving it an entire session.


Question: What is the intensity level of plyometrics?

Answer: The moves are quick and explosive, so prepare to use a lot more energy than you do in a typical strength-training session. This workout is all about boosting your muscle power.


Question: Are beans a good protein source?

Answer: Protein can help you shed those unwanted pounds -- and keep your belly full. Eggs are one of the least expensive forms of protein.


Question: How can I immobilize someoneâs broken jaw, and how can I control swelling?

Answer: Allow any blood in the mouth to dribble out or have the person spit it into a handkerchief. Without touching the roots, gently remove any broken or lost teeth from the mouth and place them in cold milk, salt water, or saliva. Take the broken teeth in their solution to the health care provider or emergency room with you. Apply cold compresses.


Question: How common are symptoms that come and go in rheumatoid arthritis?

Answer: Progressive rheumatoid arthritis. There's no easy way, but some general signs include: Flares that are intense or last a long time Diagnosis at a young age, which means the disease has more time to become active in your body Rheumatoid nodules -- bumps under your skin, often around your elbows Active inflammation that shows up in tests of joint fluid or blood Damage on X-rays when you were diagnosed High levels of rheumatoid factor or citrulline antibody in blood tests Early and more aggressive treatment raise your chances of remission.


Question: How will your rheumatoid arthritis change over time?

Answer: How you'll feel depends such things as: How advanced your RA was when you learned you had it Your age when you were diagnosed How "active" your disease is Everyone is different, but there are a few common patterns in the way RA plays out over the years: Long remissions. Progressive rheumatoid arthritis. The joint will be stiff, and you won't be able to move it as far as you used to.


Question: What are the stages of healing for surgical cuts?

Answer: Your wound will go through three phases. When you're in this phase, which can go on for up to 6 days after your surgery, it's normal to see some redness and swelling. Your doctor can tell you how much is OK. Also, your wound may feel warm, and it may hurt around the site. Watch out for oozing pus that smells bad. It could be a sign that an infection is starting. This part of your healing lasts from about 4 days to a month after your surgery. A scar starts to form on the cut. This may be a sign that you're getting sensations back in your nerves. The feeling should become less intense and happen less often over time, but check with your doctor if you're concerned. This final period can last from 6 months to 2 years. You'll see some changes in your scar. It will go from looking thick, red, and raised to thinner, flatter, and more like your usual skin color. Your wound could be infected if you have: Fever Delay in your healing Pus, redness, and pain getting worse Tenderness, warmth, and swelling near your wound Most of the time, infections in the area of your wound can be treated with antibiotics.


Question: What are possible risks of having oatmeal bath for itchy skin?

Answer: Colloidal oatmeal binds to your skin and forms a protective barrier. If that isn't enough, it cleans your skin, too. People have used it for centuries to ease irritated skin. But you might get a skin rash from it. Your doctor will call this contact dermatitis. If your skin is red and itchy after an oatmeal bath, don't try it again. Topical steroid creams or antihistamine pills can help. See your doctor if the rash doesn't clear up.


Question: What does an eosinophil count do?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Eosinophils are a kind of white blood cell that helps fight disease. The exact role of eosinophils in your body isn't clear, but they're usually linked with allergic diseases and certain infections. They're made in your bone marrow and then travel to different tissues. Eosinophils do two important things in your immune system: curb infections and boost inflammation, which can help you fight off a disease. But if you have too many eosinophils in your body for a long time, doctors call this eosinophilia. It can cause chronic inflammation, which could damage tissues. Conditions where too many eosinophils are in the body include eosinophilic esophagitis (a disorder in your esophagus) and eosinophilic colitis (in your large intestine). Eosinophilic disorders also can happen in your stomach, small intestine, blood, or other organs. Sometimes, a biopsy will show that you have a high amount of eosinophils in your tissues, but you might not have a high amount in your blood. The absolute count is the percentage of eosinophils multiplied by your white blood cell count.


Question: What will your doctor do if you have chronic belching?

Answer: Chronic belching may be a sign of trouble in your upper digestive tract, like ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease. If you have chronic belching, your doctor will look for signs that you swallow a lot of air. If he thinks you do, he'll look for a cause.


Question: Do you get gas from eating and drinking?

Answer: You usually release swallowed air by burping it. Whatever isn't released by burping goes into the small or large intestine, where it's released as flatulence. You may hear this called GERD. He may ask you to keep a record of what you eat and drink to help him identify foods that cause you trouble.


Question: Could gas be a sign of a medical problem?

Answer: You may hear this called GERD. Many things cause bloating, including: Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS) Colon cancer Crohn's disease A hernia Since diet is the main cause of gas, your doctor will want to know about the foods you eat and your symptoms. He may get an X-ray of your esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine â he may call it your GI tract -- to rule out disease.


Question: What is gas?

Answer: As your digestive system does its thing, it makes gas. Usually, you get rid of gas through your mouth (burping) or through your anus (flatulence). People gas about 20 times a day. It's an ordinary occurrence, but it can be painful and embarrassing. Many things cause bloating, including: Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS) Colon cancer Crohn's disease A hernia Since diet is the main cause of gas, your doctor will want to know about the foods you eat and your symptoms.


Question: How do I know if I have HPV?

Answer: If you have genital warts, that's a sign of HPV. If you get infected with one of these virus types, it's possible that you could have precancerous changes in cells in the tissue without any symptoms.


Question: How can painkillers treat nerve pain?

Answer: However, some studies have indicated that while tricyclic antidepressants may help with diabetic nerve pain, they might not help with nerve pain caused by HIV or cancer chemotherapy. However, for other kinds of nerve pain, doctors generally try anti-inflammatories or pain relievers, or antidepressants and/or anticonvulsants first.


Question: How do hydrating hand sanitizers soothe a dry, itchy skin?

Answer: You can't check out at a convenience store or walk into a doctor's office without seeing a dispenser of hand sanitizer these days. What's not so good is the drying effect these alcohol-based sanitizers have on your hands. To keep your hands smooth, look for hydrating versions that are dermatologist-recommended.


Question: Who can get allergies?

Answer: Allergies run in families. If your parents have allergies, you probably will, too. If one parent is allergic, your odds go up. If both are, your chances more than double. If neither parent is allergic, there's still a small chance you'll get them. Your parents can pass on the tendency to get allergies, but you may never actually have symptoms. Or you may wind up with allergies, but not the same ones as your folks. The more intense the exposure is, the more often you come into contact with the allergen, and the earlier in life this happens, the more likely you'll be allergic.


Question: Which alternative treatment providers for multiple sclerosis should I avoid?

Answer: Talk to your doctor first. Discuss the therapy with your doctor.


Question: Should I take alternative treatments for multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Together you can decide what will help you feel your best. As with any fitness program, check with your doctor before you start.


Question: Should I know the total cost of alternative treatment for multiple sclerosis?

Answer: Most of these therapies are not covered by your insurance. Ingredients: Make sure all of the active ingredients are listed.


Question: Are massages used to treat multiple sclerosis?

Answer: If you have multiple sclerosis ( MS), there are many medical treatments you can use to treat your disease, like medications or physical therapy. Some types, such as tai chi and yoga, can lower stress, help you relax, and increase your energy, balance, and flexibility. Massage. Talk to your doctor first.


Question: Are there alternative treatments for multiple sclerosis?

Answer: But many people look for other ways to feel better, such as acupuncture, yoga, relaxation, herbal remedies, and massage. They’re called alternative and complementary treatments. It’s usually safe for people with MS to have a massage, but you should tell your therapist if you have osteoporosis.


Question: What alternative therapies are recommended for multiple sclerosis?

Answer: A positive outlook cannot cure your condition, but it can ease your stress and help you feel better. Some types, such as tai chi and yoga, can lower stress, help you relax, and increase your energy, balance, and flexibility. As with any fitness program, check with your doctor before you start. It’s important for people with MS to eat the right amounts of nutritious foods. Ask your doctor what kind of diet is right for you.


Question: Does adding fiber too fast make constipation worse?

Answer: But some actions can backfire and make it even harder for you to get back to a regular schedule. To ease your constipation, you'll want to change these habits: Eat too much processed food. Do this: Aim for 20-35 grams of fiber daily, but add no more than 5 grams each day. Do this: Eating, especially healthy whole foods that contain fiber, helps your body move stool.


Question: Does not exercising make constipation worse?

Answer: That's a recipe for hard, dry stools. Do this: Exercise regularly.


Question: Does trying to go to the bathroom fast make constipation worse?

Answer: Are you constipated? Try to sit on the toilet for 15 minutes at the same time each day, even if you can't âgo.â It can relax your digestive system and cue your body for a bowel movement.


Question: Which over-the-counter medicines help for cold symptoms?

Answer: Over-the-counter cold medicines can offer relief from aches and fever. Aspirin. Decongestants can help make breathing easier by shrinking swollen mucous membranes in the nose. Use for no more than two or three days. Saline nasal sprays can also open breathing passages and may be used freely. Cough preparations are not hugely effective. For minor coughs, water and fruit juices probably help the most. The FDA and manufacturers now say that over-the-counter cough and cold medicines should not be given to children under age 4. Gargling with salt water can help relieve a sore throat.


Question: Is there a cure for the common cold?

Answer: Avoid drinks like coffee, tea, and colas with caffeine. They may rob your system of fluids. As for eating, follow your appetite. If you're not really hungry, try eating simple foods like white rice or broth. Use for no more than two or three days.


Question: How can biofeedback help you sleep?

Answer: Put your mind and body at ease with these techniques: Deep breathing . It can help you learn ways to control your tension levels. Once you master it, biofeedback can help you get back to sleep.


Question: Why shouldn't you stare at the clock if you're trying to get back to sleep?

Answer: Turn the clock away so it's out of your sight line. Do this over and over throughout your body, starting with your feet and working your way up.


Question: What is pediatric psoriasis?

Answer: The two types children are most likely to get are: Plaque psoriasis. It causes red, dry patches called plaques. They're itchy, red, and sometimes painful. Other options may include: Topical treatments: Most children have mild psoriasis you can treat with cream, lotion, or ointment that's spread onto the skin.


Question: How do antidepressants help treat nerve pain?

Answer: There are several types of medication that help with nerve pain. Nerve pain specialists often recommend two major types. While they're not used as often today to treat depression, they can play an important role in controlling nerve pain symptoms. In general, these drugs have fewer side effects than tricyclic antidepressants. Using antidepressants for nerve pain can have an added benefit, considering that chronic pain often coincides with depression.


Question: What do I need to know about the medications and treatments for nerve pain?

Answer: The good news is that doctors have a lot of effective ways to treat it. These include medicines, like prescription pain relievers or anticonvulsants and antidepressants, as well as electrical stimulation and other techniques. So if you have nerve pain, whether it's caused by cancer, HIV, shingles, or another condition, take hope. Here's a rundown of the prescription treatments that your doctor might recommend. Nerve pain can be hard to control.


Question: What are the tips on taking medications for nerve pain?

Answer: Before you start taking a new medicine, make sure your doctor knows about every other prescription drug, OTC medicine, supplement, and vitamin you use. Always follow your doctor's instructions for taking a new medicine. Never stop using a prescription medicine without talking to your doctor first. Don't ignore side effects. Some treatments for nerve pain work by sending out their own electrical impulses. Or they might be getting the right drugs at the wrong dose.


Question: Why is sleep deprivation sometimes dangerous?

Answer: Eventually, your body will demand that the debt be repaid. Sleep-deprived people who are tested by using a driving simulator or by performing a hand-eye coordination task perform as badly as or worse than those who are intoxicated. Sleep deprivation also magnifies alcohol's effects on the body, so a fatigued person who drinks will become much more impaired than someone who is well rested.


Question: When should you have your prostate-specific antigen levels tested?

Answer: Prostate-specific antigen ( PSA) is something made by the prostate gland. The first thing to do is talk to your doctor about the pros and cons of prostate cancer screening before you decide whether to be tested. The American Cancer Society says to get tested at age: 40 or 45 if you're at high risk 50 if you're at average risk The American Urological Association suggests: Under 40: No screening 40 to 54: No screening if you're at average risk. 55 to 69: Screening if your doctor suggests Over 70 or less than a 10-15 year life expectancy: No screening The U. S. Preventive Services Task Force says: 55 to 69: Men with prostate cancer risks may need testing.


Question: What should you know about the prostate-specific antigen blood test?

Answer: There's no such thing as a normal PSA for any man at any given age, but most men with prostate cancer have a higher than normal level. If your PSA level is high, your doctor may suggest that you get a prostate biopsy to test for cancer. The amount of free PSA is lower in men with prostate cancer. Instead, it's a measure of the change in your PSA levels over time. There are reasons doctors don't agree on whether you need this test: Finding prostate cancer early doesn't always protect you.


Question: What prostate-specific antigen level is a concern for prostate cancer?

Answer: There's no such thing as a normal PSA for any man at any given age, but most men with prostate cancer have a higher than normal level. In general: Safe: 0 to 2.5 ng/m L Safe for most: 2.6 to 4 ng/m L. Talk with your doctor about other risk factors Suspicious: 4 to 10 ng/m L. There's a 25% chance you have prostate cancer. There's a 50% chance you have prostate cancer. If your PSA results are in the borderline range (4 to 10), a low percent-free PSA (less than 10%) means there's about a 50% chance you have prostate cancer.


Question: How do I treat scalp psoriasis?

Answer: Scalp Psoriasis This condition can cause patches of red, flaky skin on your scalp. Special shampoos with coal tar or salicylic acid can help control it.


Question: What is causing the sores on my head?

Answer: Unless you're skilled at taking back-of-the-head selfies, they also can be hard to see. What causes these lumps and bumps that can make things like brushing your hair painful? It can be anything from minor local infections to signs of a health condition that can affect your whole body. These sores can be crusty and scabby, too.


Question: What is benzoyl peroxide?

Answer: Irritation (dryness) is a common side effect. While most are prescription only, there is an over-the-counter version of Differin now available.


Question: What are retinoids?

Answer: Acne lesions include whiteheads, blackheads, small bumps, and nodules and cysts. The most common side effect is irritation. While most are prescription only, there is an over-the-counter version of Differin now available.


Question: What is acne and how severe can it be?

Answer: Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Acne lesions include whiteheads, blackheads, small bumps, and nodules and cysts. The most common side effect is irritation.


Question: Can hormone therapy help acne?

Answer: Though acne is essentially a normal physiologic occurrence, certain conditions may aggravate the condition, including: Fluctuating hormone levels around the time of menses (women) Manipulating (picking/prodding) acne lesions Clothing (for example, hats and sports helmets) and headgear Only three types of drugs have proven to be effective for the treatment of acne -- antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids. The hormone therapy consists of low-dose estrogen and progesterone (birth control pills) or anti-androgen medications (spironolactone).


Question: How can working as a team help with psoriasis and diabetes?

Answer: Find health care providers you trust and make sure they talk to one another to give you the care you need. If you don't understand something or have concerns about anything, ask your doctor.


Question: Do nutrients and diet effect the quality of my eyesight?

Answer: A well balanced diet will provide most of what normal adults need. Foods rich in omega fatty acids, and leafy green veggies contain lots of valuable nutrients. Vitamins A, C, and E are essential for good eyesight. Lutein and zeaxanthin may protect the macula and retina. Watch your weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels. If you smoke, stop! Smoking is a major risk factor in the development of macular degeneration. If you have diabetes, you need to schedule regular eye exams and carefully monitor your blood sugar levels. Look away from your work, close your eyes, or simply stare off into space.


Question: How long does it take for whiplash to get better?

Answer: Recovery time depends on how serious your whiplash is. Most cases resolve in a few days. But other neck strains may take weeks or longer to heal. Remember that everyone heals at a different rate. Once the acute symptoms of neck strain are gone, your doctor will probably want you to start rehabilitation. This will make your neck muscles stronger and more limber. It will help you both recover and reduce the odds of straining your neck again in the future. Do not try to return to your previous level of physical activity until you can: Look over both shoulders without pain or stiffness Rock your head all the way forward and all the way back without pain or stiffness Rock your head from side to side without pain or stiffness If you start pushing yourself before your neck strain is healed, you could end up with chronic neck pain and permanent injury.


Question: How do you treat whiplash?

Answer: To help with recovery, you should: Ice your neck to reduce pain and swelling as soon as you can after the injury. Do it for 15 minutes every 3-4 hours for 2-3 days. Wrap the ice in a thin towel or cloth to prevent injury to the skin. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs), like ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin) or naproxen ( Aleve), will help with pain and swelling. If over the counter medications do not work, prescription painkillers and muscle relaxants may be necessary. Use a neck brace or collar to add support, if your doctor recommends it. However, they are not recommended for long-term use, because they can actually weaken the muscles in your neck. Use heat on your neck only after the initial swelling has gone down. You could use warm, wet towels or take a warm bath.


Question: What should you know about gallstones?

Answer: !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } These deposits may be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball; they may be hard or soft, smooth or jagged. You may have several gallstones or just one. Some 30 million American adults suffer from gallstones. Yet most of those who have the condition do not realize it. In this case, what you don't know probably won't hurt you; gallstones that are simply floating around inside the gallbladder generally cause no symptoms and no harm. These "silent" stones usually go unnoticed unless they show up in an ultrasound exam conducted for some other reason. However, the longer a stone exists in the gallbladder, the more likely it is to become problematic. People who have gallstones without symptoms have 20% chance of having an episode of pain during their lifetime. The primary function of the gallbladder is to store bile, a brown or yellowish fluid that helps the body break down fatty food.


Question: What are some ways to prevent reactions if I have dust mite allergies?

Answer: Here are some tips to help prevent allergic asthma at home: For prevention of asthma and allergies when you have dust mite allergies, try the following strategies: Wash all bedding in hot water once a week. Don't allow smoking in your house. Wear a mask and gloves when cleaning, vacuuming, or painting to limit dust and chemical exposure. Vacuum twice a week. When possible, choose hardwood floors instead of carpeting. Dust all surfaces with a damp cloth often, including lampshades and windowsills. Keep clutter under control. Replace traditional stuffed animals with washable stuffed animals. Pillows and bedding should not contain feathers. Keep indoor humidity low (25%-50%). Use a dehumidifier. Regularly change filters on heaters and air conditioners. Also change your shirt.


Question: What are some ways to prevent reactions if I have mold and mildew allergies?

Answer: For asthma prevention when you have mold and mildew allergies, try the following suggestions: Air out damp, humid areas frequently. Do not carpet the bathroom. Avoid sources of outdoor molds, such as wet leaves or garden debris. To clean visible mold, use a cleaning solution containing 5% bleach and a small amount of detergent. Avoid areas where molds may collect, including basements, garages, crawl spaces, barns, and compost heaps. Don't leave wet clothes in the washer where mold can quickly grow. Store firewood outside. Use air conditioning if possible.


Question: What tests are done to diagnose Pompe disease?

Answer: If your doctor thinks you might have Pompe disease, it's often confirmed with these tests: Check a sample of muscle to see how much glycogen there is Check a blood sample to see how well the "bad" protein is working Look for the genetic problem that causes Pompe disease It can take about 3 months to diagnose Pompe disease in a baby. You might need to use a feeding tube to make sure you get enough nutrients.


Question: Which specialists can help you manage your symptoms of Pompe disease?

Answer: You can have one gene and not have symptoms of the disease. This might include: A cardiologist (heart doctor) A neurologist, who treats the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles A respiratory therapist, who can help your lungs and breathing A nutritionist, who can help you eat to stay healthy Generally, the later in life the disease shows up, the slower it moves.


Question: What causes pelvic girdle pain after childbirth?

Answer: It's more likely if your doctor delivers your baby with forceps. This is often a last resort, and it isn't common. There may be swelling or bleeding when the ligament stretches and the bones come apart. A gap between your pelvic bones can be painful. That pain can last for 3 to 8 months. It may hurt when you walk, and you may have trouble walking normally. You may also be in pain when you sit or stand for a long time.


Question: What are possible side effects of glucosamine?

Answer: If you're looking for a supplement that may ease your joint pain, glucosamine might be worth a try. You're more likely to get them if you take high doses. They may include things like: Upset stomach Heartburn Drowsiness Headache Risks.


Question: How can blood tests help check for food poisoning?

Answer: But they aren't always necessary and don't confirm every case. Blood tests may be ordered if your doctor thinks the infection has spread into the blood. Blood tests can detect the bacteria Listeria monocytogenes and the hepatitis A virus. Specific blood tests can tell how sick you are by looking for inflammation and signs that you're dehydrated. Stool or blood tests can check for toxins, such as for botulism, which can be deadly.


Question: What are delayed symptoms of food poisoning?

Answer: Dehydration can make you dizzy when you stand up. But different organisms work at different speeds. For example, Staphylococcus aureus can give you cramps, diarrhea, and nausea in as little as 30 minutes after you eat or drink. This bacterium grows in meats, eggs, and cream that haven't been refrigerated properly. Another, far less common, cause of foodborne illness is the hepatitis A virus. It can lie in wait as long as 50 days before making itself known. You can get the virus through foods and drinks that have been in contact with sewage water. You're more likely to get the virus when traveling in developing countries.


Question: What conditions can look like food poisoning?

Answer: Dehydration can make you dizzy when you stand up. A host of other conditions can lead to many of the same symptoms of food poisoning. Most common is gastroenteritis, which is caused by a virus. Others include gallbladder problems, pancreatitis, and inflammatory bowel disease.


Question: How can stool cultures help check for food poisoning?

Answer: Stool cultures are the most common lab test for food poisoning. Your doctor may order one if you have a fever or intense stomach pain along with other symptoms. She may also order one if you have symptoms that linger. A sample of your stool can help tell if your sickness is related to bacteria. Stool tests aren't always accurate, and they can take several days to come back. Stool or blood tests can check for toxins, such as for botulism, which can be deadly. A host of other conditions can lead to many of the same symptoms of food poisoning.


Question: How do I moisturize a baby with eczema?

Answer: It's not a dangerous condition, but it can be itchy and uncomfortable for baby and frustrating for parents. Limit your use of soap and discuss with your doctor the type of soap you should use. Hypoallergenic fragrance-free moisturizers are best.


Question: How do I bathe a child with eczema?

Answer: Hot water can make eczema worse. Limit your use of soap and discuss with your doctor the type of soap you should use. Rinse your child's skin twice to remove soap residue. Keep baths short since prolonged contact with water can be irritating. Either one can make eczema worse.


Question: How does someone find a cancer specialist?

Answer: Usually your oncologist will oversee your general care and coordinate treatments with other specialists. Your insurance company may also have a specific list of providers that they will work with.


Question: How many cancer specialists will someone with cancer need to see?

Answer: Cancer is a complex and tricky disease, so you may need to see several different cancer specialists during your treatment. You need to feel like your doctor is listening to you and answering your questions.


Question: Where do I go to find a cancer specialist?

Answer: Usually your oncologist will oversee your general care and coordinate treatments with other specialists. Your insurance company may also have a specific list of providers that they will work with. There are other ways to get the names of cancer specialists. You could call your local hospital and ask for the names of cancer specialists who are on staff.


Question: What is an electrocardiogram (EKG)?

Answer: An EKG may be part of a routine physical exam or it may be used as a test for heart disease. During an EKG, a technician will attach 10 electrodes with adhesive pads to the skin of your chest, arms, and legs.


Question: What is hepatitis C (HCV)?

Answer: Today, most Americans get it after sharing needles or other tools to inject drugs. HCV is showing up in more and more pregnant women, probably because of the sharp rise in heroin and prescription drug abuse. Your child can't catch the virus from your breast milk, but check with your doctor if your nipples are cracked or bleeding since the virus spreads through blood.


Question: Does having hepatitis affect a pregnancy?

Answer: Usually, it won't hurt your unborn baby or affect your pregnancy. If your doctor knows you have it, or might have it, she can help you manage it during your pregnancy to lower the chances of any long-term liver disease for you and your baby. Like hepatitis C, this virus can cause serious infections that damage the liver. It's rare for pregnant women to pass it to her child.


Question: What should you do if you think you've been exposed to the hepatitis A virus and are pregnant?

Answer: Usually, it won't hurt your unborn baby or affect your pregnancy. What You Can Do Hepatitis A is more common in places without clean food and water and with poor sanitation systems. If you are pregnant or of childbearing age, consider getting an HAV vaccine before you visit those areas. If you've eaten at a restaurant that reported a hepatitis A outbreak, see your doctor. But you need to get it within 2 weeks of getting the virus.


Question: Can skipping meals trigger a migraine headache?

Answer: Everyday things can trigger a migraine headache -- foods, drinks, exercise, medications, stress, too much or too little sleep, bright lights, hunger, smells, and hormones, to name a few. Chances are, the items that get the most checks are your triggers.


Question: What do physical therapists specialize in?

Answer: It uses exercise and other methods to stimulate muscles, bones, and joints. It's a good idea to work with a therapist, whether you've had RA for a long time, you're newly diagnosed, and no matter how severe it is.


Question: How can physical therapy help treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: It uses exercise and other methods to stimulate muscles, bones, and joints. It's a good idea to work with a therapist, whether you've had RA for a long time, you're newly diagnosed, and no matter how severe it is. In the early stages of the disease, your physical therapist can check on your strength, fitness, and how well your joints work. She'll make an exercise plan to keep your joints as healthy as possible. If you have moderate or advanced rheumatoid arthritis, physical therapy can help you keep or improve your strength and flexibility.


Question: What other things can help treat rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Answer: If you have moderate or advanced rheumatoid arthritis, physical therapy can help you keep or improve your strength and flexibility. Assistive devices are products or improvements that make common tasks easier.


Question: What are symptoms of brain cancer?

Answer: The symptoms of brain cancer are numerous and not specific to brain tumors, meaning they can be caused by many other illnesses. The following symptoms are most common: Headache Weakness Clumsiness Difficulty walking Seizures Other nonspecific symptoms and signs include the following: Altered mental status -- changes in concentration, memory, attention, or alertness Nausea, vomiting Abnormalities in vision Difficulty with speech Gradual changes in intellectual capacity or emotional response In many people, the onset of these symptoms is very gradual and may be missed by both the person with the brain tumor and the family. In some instances, the person acts as if he or she is having a stroke. Seek emergency medical help right away if you have any of the following symptoms: Unexplained, persistent vomiting Double vision or unexplained blurring of vision, especially on only one side Lethargy or increased sleepiness New seizures New pattern or type of headaches Although headaches are thought to be a common symptom of brain cancer, they may not occur until late in the progression of the disease.


Question: How can I control or prevent allergies at home?

Answer: Pollen, mold, dust mites, and animal dander are some of the usual things that cause itchy eyes and congestion. Keep windows closed and use air conditioning. Clean air filters frequently and air ducts at least once a year. Keep humidity in your house at 50% or below to prevent mold growth. Install dehumidifiers in basements and other damp areas. Avoid moldy areas: basements, garages, crawl spaces, barns, and compost heaps. Keep pets outside. Wash bedding in hot water every week to kill dust mites. Vacuum with a double-layered microfilter bag or a HEPA filter. Use air conditioning.


Question: What are common allergy triggers in homes?

Answer: Take these steps to control the things that trigger your reactions. Pollen, mold, dust mites, and animal dander are some of the usual things that cause itchy eyes and congestion. To get rid of them, you can make changes in your home and your daily habits, as well as taking your medicine. You're allergic but want to keep your pet.


Question: When should a fine needle aspiration be done

Answer: Or it may be discovered on an imaging test such as: CT scan mammogram ultrasound Imaging tests may also discover abnormal spots deeper inside the body. Most fine needle aspirations are done on these areas: breast thyroid gland lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or armpit Those types of fine needle aspirations are performed through the skin. Ultrasound may be used during the procedure.


Question: What are potential complications from a fine needle aspiration?

Answer: Complications are infrequent. Minor bleeding under the skin at the biopsy site can occur. This can result in a tender, swollen area called a hematoma. Infection at the biopsy site is rare, because sterile techniques and equipment are used for all fine needle aspirations. The risk of complications from fine needle aspiration during endoscopy is slightly higher. But it is still quite low for most people.


Question: What should I expect after fine needle aspiration?

Answer: If you will be getting sedating medication, be sure to bring someone with you to drive you home. At the biopsy site, you may have some: swelling soreness pain In most people, over-the-counter pain medicines are enough to decrease discomfort.


Question: Where can I find probiotics?

Answer: You can find probiotics in certain foods, like yogurt, and they also come in the form of supplements. Look for probiotics with a specific type of bacteria that's been tested and found to work. Make sure the product has a Good Manufacturing Practices ( GMP) seal. Choose products that say that they still work "through end of shelf life" rather than "at time of manufacture."


Question: How can probiotics help stomach problems?

Answer: But diarrhea can throw the microbes in your gut off balance. Probiotics may help get things back on track. You can find probiotics in certain foods, like yogurt, and they also come in the form of supplements. Not all probiotics can ease diarrhea, though, and some help only certain types of diarrhea. This can upset the normal balance in your intestines, leading to diarrhea. When you're away from home, you may get diarrhea when you eat or drink contaminated food or water.


Question: How is food poisoning treated?

Answer: While some cases last longer, it's usually gone within a few days. Adults or children who lose a lot of fluids -- this is called dehydration -- may need to go the hospital to get an IV. This will replace your fluids and electrolytes more quickly. For severe food poisoning caused by certain bacteria, such as listeria, you may get antibiotics. For viruses, there's nothing you can take.


Question: What are common causes of food poisoning?

Answer: Your symptoms depend on what caused you to get sick, but you usually have diarrhea, throwing up, and an upset stomach at the least. Some of the causes, from most to least common in the United States, are: Norovirus: You can get this virus from raw fruits and vegetables. You can also get this from shellfish, such as lobster and clams, that come from tainted water. Food handlers who have norovirus can also spread it as they prepare meals for customers. Salmonella. Clostridium perfringens. Usually a problem on foods left unrefrigerated for too long, this is common in meats, stews, and gravies. Campylobacter. You get can this from raw or undercooked meat, especially chicken, as well as unpasteurized milk and tainted water. Shigella. Often spread when someone uses tainted water to clean food, it can be found on seafood and raw, ready-to-eat fruits and vegetables. E. coli. You often get this one from eating undercooked beef, especially ground beef, as well as drinking unpasteurized milk and cider. This is a parasite found in stream water or food contaminated by stool. Listeria . Less common than others on this list, you can get it from packaged foods such as hot dogs and lunch meats, soft cheeses such as brie, and raw fruits and vegetables. Pregnant women need to be extra careful about listeria since it can cause miscarriage.


Question: What does the treatment for portal hypertension include?

Answer: Sclerotherapy is occasionally used when banding cannot be used and is a procedure in which a blood-clotting solution is injected into the bleeding varices to stop bleeding. Medications. Nonselective beta-blockers (nadolol or propranolol) may be prescribed alone or in combination with endoscopic therapy to reduce the pressure in varices and further reduce the risk of bleeding. Nonselective beta blockers are also prescribed to prevent a first variceal hemorrhage in a patient with varices that are felt to be at risk for bleeding. Esophageal variceal banding has also been used for that purpose, especially in patients who can't take beta blockers. The drug lactulose can help treat confusion and other mental changes associated with encephalopathy. If endoscopic therapy, drug therapy, and/or dietary changes don't successfully control variceal bleeding, you may require one of the following procedures to reduce the pressure in these veins.


Question: What lifestyle changes should be made for portal hypertension?

Answer: Maintaining good nutritional habits and keeping a healthy lifestyle may help you avoid portal hypertension. Some of the things you can do to improve the function of your liver include the following: Do not use alcohol or street drugs. Do not take any over-the-counter or prescription drugs or herbal medicines without first consulting your doctor or nurse. You will probably be required to consume no more than 2 grams of sodium per day. Reduced protein intake may be required if confusion is a symptom. A dietitian can create a meal plan for you. Be sure to follow the dietary recommendations that your health care providers give you.


Question: What are the symptoms of herpes?

Answer: You can get them through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. In the primary stage, the main symptom is a sore. The main symptom of herpes is painful blisters around the penis, vagina, or anus.


Question: What is the most commonly reported STD in the United States?

Answer: You can get them through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Sometimes you'll notice an odd discharge from your vagina or penis, or pain or burning when you pee. But only about 25% of women and 50% of men get symptoms. Chlamydia is caused by bacteria, so it's treated with antibiotics. After you are treated, you should get retested in three months, even if your partner has been treated as well.


Question: What types of exercise can you do with COPD?

Answer: Among the exercises you can do are: Stretching. You can do stretches as an exercise or use them as a warm-up and cool-down before and after exercise. Stretches improve flexibility, prevent injury, and get your heart pumping. This doesn't have to be a high-intensity workout. A 30-minute walk or swim a few times a week can boost the amount of oxygen in your system. Resistance. Strength exercises -- which you can do with exercise bands, weights, or even working against your own muscle resistance (isometrics) -- build muscles and ease breathing.


Question: What are diet tips for COPD?

Answer: Follow a high-fiber diet -- about 20 to 35 grams a day -- with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, bran, and pasta. Some other nutrition tips to remember: Keep a good body weight. Cut the salt, and drink plenty of fluids. To keep energy levels high, eat lots of small meals instead of one big one, avoid junk-food snacks, and do some light exercise before you eat.


Question: What breathing exercises help COPD?

Answer: There are two key breathing exercises you should try: Pursed-lips breathing. Breathe in through your nose for 2 seconds. This exercise slows your breathing, keeps your airways open, and helps boost oxygen. Abdominal (diaphragmatic) breathing. Put one hand on your heart and the other on your stomach. Inhale through your nose, making sure your stomach expands. Slowly breathe out through pursed lips, pressing on your belly.


Question: What do you need to know about severe aortic stenosis?

Answer: If something causes this valve to narrow, you can't get as much blood flow to your heart and the rest of your body. You can have a slightly more advanced case of aortic stenosis but still not show any symptoms. If your aortic stenosis is severe, you may have the same symptoms as some people with moderate cases -- such as chest pain, tightness, shortness of breath when you're active, and fainting. If left untreated, severe aortic stenosis can lead to heart failure. Intense fatigue, shortness of breath, and swelling of your ankles and feet are all signs of this. It can also lead to heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias) and even sudden cardiac death.


Question: What do you need to know about moderate aortic stenosis?

Answer: If something causes this valve to narrow, you can't get as much blood flow to your heart and the rest of your body. In fact, many people who have a mild case may not notice any symptoms. Or, you may start to feel the effects of a smaller aortic valve opening and the strain that's putting on your heart. If your condition is moderate, you may notice: Feeling out of breath, especially when you're active Chest pain Tightness or pressure in your chest Heart palpitations (rapid heartbeats) Feeling that your normal exercise has become harder Your doctor may also hear a heart murmur during an exam.


Question: How is mild aortic stenosis diagnosed?

Answer: If something causes this valve to narrow, you can't get as much blood flow to your heart and the rest of your body. In fact, many people who have a mild case may not notice any symptoms. When your doctor listens to your heart, she may hear an abnormal whooshing sound between heartbeats.


Question: What is aortic stenosis?

Answer: Aortic stenosis is a type of heart valve disease. Your aortic valve transfers blood from the left ventricle of your heart to your aorta, the largest artery you have. If something causes this valve to narrow, you can't get as much blood flow to your heart and the rest of your body. While aortic stenosis is most common in older people, some children are born with it.


Question: What are side effects of allergy shots for insect stings?

Answer: If allergy shots are right for you, your doctor will first test to find out which insects you're allergic to. You may have some redness and warmth at the injection site. You could also have: Itching Hives Swelling of the skin In rare cases, allergy shots can cause a more serious or even life-threatening reaction. For that reason, you'll get your shots at your doctor's office. Allergy shots aren't for everyone.


Question: What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in the joints?

Answer: Often you'll notice swelling in your knees, ankles, feet, and hands. Usually, a few joints are inflamed at a time. They get painful and puffy, and sometimes hot and red. When your fingers or toes are affected, they might take on a sausage shape. Stiff joints are common. They're typically worse early in the morning. If you have both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, your odds are even higher. Inflammation in the colored part of your eye, the iris, can cause pain that gets worse in bright light. Arthritis mutilans, a rare but destructive condition that sometimes happens with psoriatic arthritis, rapidly damages joints at the ends of your fingers and toes. Women with psoriasis and anyone with severe psoriatic arthritis may be almost twice as likely to get it as others. If you have psoriasis and your joints hurt, let your doctor know.


Question: How can pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) be prevented?

Answer: Fever (it's usually low-grade if you have HIV, higher temperature if you don't) Dry cough or wheezing Shortness of breath, especially when you're active Fatigue Chest pain when you breathe Call your doctor if you have these symptoms and HIV or a weakened immune system, because PCP can be fatal. There's no vaccine to prevent this type of pneumonia. The best way to prevent PCP when you have HIV is to keep up with your ART, because it raises your CD4 count.


Question: What is pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)?

Answer: Most people have successfully fought it by the time they're 3 or 4 years old. PCP isn't hard to prevent. A healthy immune system can easily control it. But it can make people with weakened immune systems, such as someone with HIV, very sick. People who've gotten an organ transplant, with blood cancers, or who take drugs for autoimmume diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and multiple sclerosis could get it, too. Although it's rare, PCP can also affect other parts of your body, including lymph nodes, liver, and bone marrow. However, PCP is still the most common opportunistic infection in persons who get AIDS. Your doctor will get a sample by helping you cough up stuff or by using a special tool called a bronchoscope that goes into your airways through your mouth. Other drugs your doctor might prescribe to fight the infection include: Dapsone ( Aczone), sometimes with pyrimethamine ( Daraprim) Pentamidine ( Nubu Pent, Pentam) that you breathe in through a machine called a nebulizer, maybe in a doctor's office or a clinic ( You could also get a shot if your infection is serious.)


Question: When do I take insulin for diabetes?

Answer: You want to time your shot so that the glucose from your food gets into your system at about the same time that the insulin starts to work. This will help your body use the glucose and avoid low blood sugar reactions. For example, if you use a rapid-acting insulin, you'd likely take it 10 minutes before or even with your meal. If you use regular- or intermediate-acting insulin, you should generally take it about a half-hour before your meals, or at bedtime. Follow your doctor's advice. For insulin pens, check the package insert for storage instructions Check the directions on the package.


Question: How does insulin help treat diabetes?

Answer: This will help your body use the glucose and avoid low blood sugar reactions. A good rule of thumb is that if the temperature is comfortable for you, the insulin is safe.


Question: What does it mean if you're always thirsty?

Answer: It's normal to feel thirsty when it's hot or after you've powered through an intense workout. It happens when your body doesn't make enough of a hormone that helps your kidneys control the amount of water in your body.


Question: What are self care options for vomiting?

Answer: Have the person drink small amounts of water, sports drinks, or clear liquids. Don't give the person solid food until vomiting has stopped. When the person can tolerate food, try small amounts of the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast.


Question: What should I do for someone who has diarrhea?

Answer: Rest Have the person rest as needed and avoid strenuous exercise. Keep a sick child home from school or day care. Ease Into Eating Feed an infant or child easily digested foods; the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) is a good choice as soon as they can tolerate food. When to Call a Doctor Call a doctor if: You suspect that you or your child is dehydrated. There is stomach pain that is not relieved by having a bowel movement.


Question: When should you call a doctor about diarrhea?

Answer: Take Fluids Ask your doctor what fluids are best for you or your child. There is blood or mucus in the stool, or the stool is black. An over-the-counter diarrhea medication seems to have worsened the diarrhea. You think the person has traveler's diarrhea or drank contaminated water. The person is taking an antibiotic that may be causing the diarrhea. There is a fever. The person is losing more fluid in his stool than he can replace by drinking fluids. Follow- Up Also seek medical attention if: You or your child has any other medical problems and has diarrhea. Diarrhea in an adult worsens or doesn't clear up after 2 or 3 days A child doesn't feel better after 24 hours


Question: What should I do before I get an eye exam for my child?

Answer: Does your baby really need an eye exam in his first year? Check your health plan for a list of eye doctors in your area.


Question: Does my child need an eye exam in his first year?

Answer: If your baby is premature and born in less that 34 weeks, has a family history of cataracts, eye tumors, and other inherited diseases, a specialist should check him while he's still in the hospital nursery. At every routine doctor visit during the first year, your baby should be checked by his regular pediatrician to make sure: Each eye focuses His eyes are straight He doesn't have an internal eye disease If you catch and treat eye conditions early, you'll spare your child lifelong vision issues and boost his overall health. Your baby's doctor (a pediatrician or family doctor) should include a basic eye exam and look for vision problems during each checkup in the first year.


Question: What should I expect for my baby's eye exams during the first year?

Answer: Does your baby really need an eye exam in his first year? Check your health plan for a list of eye doctors in your area. Every well-baby visit should include: A family history of eye health or vision problems. Although most doctors know how to check babies' and children's eyes, yours may suggest your child get another exam, even if he doesn't find vision problems. Experts have different opinions on vision screening for children. Ask your doctor what's right for you.


Question: Why is taking things slow after taking erectile dysfunction (ED) medication important?

Answer: But don't do this on your own. That improves your blood flow and helps you get an erection. But for the drugs to work, you need to be sexually aroused. So don't rush things. Take some time to get into the mood. Use all of your senses to get turned on. To make sure you stay safe, talk to your doctor about all of the medications you take.


Question: How common is rheumatic fever?

Answer: A rare but potentially life-threatening disease, rheumatic fever is a complication of untreated strep throat caused by bacteria called group A streptococcus. In recent years, though, it has begun to make a comeback in the U. S., particularly among children living in poor, inner-city neighborhoods. The disease tends to strike most often in cool, damp weather during the winter and early spring. In the U. S., it is most common in the northern states.


Question: What are risks of getting allergy shots for asthma?

Answer: It may not be safe for people who have uncontrolled asthma or other health conditions, such as heart disease. It may also not be a good idea for people taking certain medications, such as beta-blockers. Allergy shots for asthma are not used in children who are under age 5. The most common side effects are redness and swelling at the site of the injection. Very rarely, allergy injections can even lead to anaphylactic shock, which can be fatal. This is why you should always get these shots in the presence of experts who can control any adverse reactions in the event of an asthma emergency.


Question: What should I do if I am having cancer pain?

Answer: If one approach doesn't work, you and your doctor can try others until you find relief. There are plenty of non-medical ways to ease your aches, too. Or you can use them on their own to get relief. Talk to your doctor or nurse about what you can do to feel better.


Question: Does cancer cause pain?

Answer: It can come from the disease itself, like when a tumor presses on a nerve. Treatments such as chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation can also cause it. But whatever the reason, there's almost always a way to treat it. You don't have to live with pain either from cancer or from one of your treatments.


Question: Are there nonmedical options for treating cancer-related pain?

Answer: You're more likely to get a good handle on the problem if you tackle it early. There are many different ways to treat pain. You may need to try a few different methods to find one that works for you. And being pain-free can actually make your other cancer treatments more effective.


Question: When should I seek medical care regarding corneal flash burns?

Answer: Corneal damage from a corneal flash burn or from a disease may cause pain, changes in vision, or loss of vision. If you are unable to discuss your situation with an ophthalmologist and you have changes in your vision, have blurry vision, see flashing spots or light, or have worsening eye pain or pain with the movement of your eyes, then you need to go to a hospital's emergency department for an evaluation.


Question: What exams and tests are used to diagnose corneal flash burns?

Answer: Because the eyes are very sensitive to disease and damage, any blurred vision, change in vision, or worsening eye pain needs to be evaluated by your ophthalmologist (a medical doctor who specializes in eye care and surgery). Your ophthalmologist looks at the surface of your eyes using special equipment, such as a slit lamp, made especially for examining the eye's surface. A numbing eyedrop to allow your eye to be examined and a painless dye called fluorescein may be put onto your eye to aid in the examination. A damaged cornea, coupled with a history of ultraviolet light exposure, confirms the diagnosis of radiation eye burns or corneal flash burns.


Question: How can I prevent corneal flash burns?

Answer: Eyes, particularly the cornea (the clear window of tissue on the front of the eyeball), can be damaged easily by exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun and from other sources of ultraviolet light, such as a welder's arc, a photographer's flood lamps, a sun lamp, or even a halogen desk lamp. Radiation damage to the cornea leading to a flash burn can be caused by ultraviolet light from various sources: Sunlamp in tanning salon Reflection of the sun off the snow at high elevation (snow blindness) Photographer's flood lamp Lightning that strikes close to you Halogen lamp Welding torch Direct sunlight Solar eclipse Reflection of sunlight off water Any time from 3-12 hours after overexposure to ultraviolet light, you may begin to notice symptoms: Pain that can be mild to very severe Bloodshot eyes Light sensitivity Excessive tearing Blurry vision Sensation of a foreign body in the eye In most cases, both eyes are involved, although the symptoms may be worse in the eye that received more ultraviolet radiation.


Question: How do you know if your nerve damage is caused by compression or trauma?

Answer: In some instances, cancerous masses may push against or crush nerves. Compression/trauma.


Question: What does the endocrine system do?

Answer: Ovaries: The female reproductive organs that release eggs and produce sex hormones. Diabetes is the most common endocrine disorder diagnosed in the U. S. Other endocrine disorders include: Adrenal insufficiency. Blood and urine tests to check your hormone levels can help your doctors determine if you have an endocrine disorder.


Question: What are symptoms of endocrine disorder?

Answer: Each gland of the endocrine system releases specific hormones into your bloodstream. However, most people with endocrine disease complain of fatigue and weakness.


Question: What does the endocrine system influence?

Answer: Diabetes is the most common endocrine disorder diagnosed in the U. S. Other endocrine disorders include: Adrenal insufficiency. Blood and urine tests to check your hormone levels can help your doctors determine if you have an endocrine disorder.


Question: What parts of the body are affected by Marfan syndrome?

Answer: One of the biggest threats of Marfan syndrome is damage to the aorta, the artery that carries blood from the heart to the rest of the body. Marfan syndrome can rupture the inner layers of the aorta, causing dissection that leads to bleeding in the wall of the vessel. Aortic dissection can be deadly. Surgery may be required to replace the affected part of the aorta. If the disease is suspected, the doctor will perform a thorough physical exam of the eyes, heart and blood vessels, and muscle and skeletal system, obtain a history of symptoms and information about family members that may have had the disorder, to determine if you have it.


Question: How is Marfan syndrome diagnosed?

Answer: If the disease is suspected, the doctor will perform a thorough physical exam of the eyes, heart and blood vessels, and muscle and skeletal system, obtain a history of symptoms and information about family members that may have had the disorder, to determine if you have it. Other tests, such as a chest X-ray, an electrocardiogram ( ECG), and an echocardiogram will be used to evaluate changes in the heart and blood vessels, and detect heart rhythm problems. Ask your cardiologist about activity guidelines for you.


Question: What is a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy?

Answer: In the colon, polyps can be removed through the scope to prevent the development of colon cancer. Therefore, a laxative or group of laxatives is given on the day before the procedure.


Question: How do I prepare for endoscopy?

Answer: During an upper endoscopy, an endoscope is easily passed through the mouth and throat and into the esophagus, allowing the doctor to view the esophagus, stomach, and upper part of the small intestine. To examine the colon, it must be cleared of stool. Therefore, a laxative or group of laxatives is given on the day before the procedure. For most examinations with an endoscope, a sedative is provided. This increases the comfort of the individual undergoing the examination. The sedative, which is administered via an injection into the vein, produces relaxation and light sleep. There are usually few if any recollections of the procedure. Patients wake up within an hour, but the effects of the medicines are more prolonged, so it is not safe to drive until the next day. General anesthesia (puts you totally asleep for a period of time) is given in only very special circumstances (in young children, and when very complex procedures are planned).


Question: When do you need surgery to treat myoclonus?

Answer: If you have multiple sclerosis ( MS), you may sometimes get muscle spasms, also called myoclonus. He may recommend the following: Electroencephalogram ( EEG): This tracks and records the patterns of electrical activity in your brain to figure out where the myoclonus starts. Continue Reading Below Surgery: You might need it to remove the brain or spinal cord lesion that's causing your symptoms. Deep brain stimulation ( DBS): In this surgical procedure, your doctor implants electrodes into your brain and uses wire to connect them with a gadget implanted in your chest. You can use it to send out signals that block the ones causing your myoclonus. DBS can lower the number of muscle twitches, but like all surgeries, there are risks.


Question: What can interfere with chemotherapy?

Answer: Your appetite may be highest in the morning, so that can be a good time to get in a bigger meal. But taking high doses of some, including vitamins A, C, and E, can backfire during chemo. Some studies show they interfere with the way some drugs work. Talk to your doctor about which vitamins -- and any other over-the-counter drugs and supplements you usually take -- are OK to use during treatment.


Question: Do you need to stay overnight in the hospital if you have chemotherapy?

Answer: And the side effects aren't the same for everyone. Where you get treatment, what type of chemotherapy you have, and how often you get it depend on a number of things, including: The type of cancer you have and how advanced it is Whether you had chemo before Other health problems, like diabetes or heart disease Your goals and preferences You may not need to get chemotherapy through an IV.


Question: How can chemotherapy affect you?

Answer: The truth is there are lots of ways to get chemo, including pills and even skin creams. And the side effects aren't the same for everyone. Some people get few side effects, or even none at all. Which ones you get depend partly on what drugs you take, but it's hard to predict until you start treatment. Talk to your doctor about what to expect.


Question: What are side effects of chemotherapy?

Answer: The truth is there are lots of ways to get chemo, including pills and even skin creams. And the side effects aren't the same for everyone. Some people get few side effects, or even none at all. Which ones you get depend partly on what drugs you take, but it's hard to predict until you start treatment. Talk to your doctor about what to expect.


Question: How are dust allergies treated?

Answer: Dust allergy symptoms are similar to those of pollen allergies: Red, itchy, watery eyes Itchy, runny, stuffy nose Sneezing To get rid of these tiny creatures in your home, keep in mind their living habits. If your dust allergy is severe, ask your doctor if replacing wall-to-wall carpeting with hardwood or vinyl floors would help. You might be able to get allergy shots (immunotherapy). They treat allergies over a longer time. There is also a prescription medication called Odactra that is an allergen extract that can be taken under the tongue instead of as a shot. It can help relieve nasal and eye irritation due to dust mite allergy. Talk to your doctor about what treatment is best for you.


Question: How should I floss my teeth?

Answer: To clean the inside of the bottom front teeth, angle the head in an up-and-down position toward the bottom inside of the mouth and move the toothbrush in a small circle. To floss: Remove about an 18-inch strip of floss from the dispenser. Place the floss in your mouth and use your index fingers to push the floss between the teeth. Be careful not to push too hard and injure the gums. Move the floss up and down against the tooth and up and around the gum line. The floss should form a C-shape around the tooth as you floss. Floss between each tooth as well as behind the back teeth. Use a clean section of floss as needed and take up used floss by winding it around the fingers.


Question: What are tips for using mouth rinses to help care for your teeth and gums?

Answer: If you can, brush after every meal. Floss teeth at least once a day. Some rinses can do both. Swish the mouthwash in your mouth for 30 to 60 seconds. Fluoride mouth rinses also help reduce and prevent tooth decay. The ADA does not recommend fluoride mouth rinses for children ages 6 or younger, because they may swallow the rinse.


Question: With the right care, how long can teeth and gums stay healthy?

Answer: After brushing your teeth for two to three minutes, rinse your mouth with water. Move the floss up and down against the tooth and up and around the gum line.


Question: How long does coronary artery bypass surgery take?

Answer: The operation builds that bypass. You'll get general anesthesia, which means you won't be âawake.â If you get open-heart surgery, the surgeon will make a long cut in the center of your chest and open your rib cage.


Question: What will you feel after coronary artery bypass surgery?

Answer: You may feel soreness in your chest. You'll have the most discomfort in the first 2 to 3 days following the procedure. You will likely get pain medicines for that. You might not be hungry and even be constipated for a few weeks after the surgery. You could have trouble sleeping while you're in the hospital. If the surgeon removes a piece of healthy vein from your leg, you may have some swelling there. This is all normal.


Question: Who can help me figure out a diet plan to help my IBS?

Answer: So it's a good idea to work with a gastroenterologist and a dietitian who can help you limit FODMAPs with a balanced diet that meets all your nutritional needs. For instance, maybe dairy is a problem, but grains are OK for you.


Question: What is it like if you're considering a low-FODMAP diet for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?

Answer: If FODMAPs are the culprit, you'll probably start to feel better quickly. You'll have many foods you can eat on this diet, but there's a steep learning curve about which foods are high in FODMAPs and what you could choose instead. You might discover that you're only sensitive to one or two FODMAP carbs, not all of them.


Question: What are FODMAPs?

Answer: Never heard of FODMAPs? They are a type of carb. But this is not your typical low-carb diet. For most people, FODMAPs are not a problem unless you eat too much of them. FODMAPs draw water into your digestive tract, which could make you bloated. If you eat too much of them, they can hang around in your gut and ferment.


Question: What is a FODMAP diet and how does it treat IBS?

Answer: The diet only limits carbs that are "fermentable oligo-, di-, monosaccharides and polyols." These types of carbs are FODMAPs: Fructose: Fruits, honey, high-fructose corn syrup, agave Lactose: Dairy Fructans: Wheat, onions, garlic Galactans: Legumes, such as beans, lentils, and soybeans Polyols: Sugar alcohols and fruits that have pits or seeds, such as apples, avocados, cherries, figs, peaches, or plums Avoiding FODMAPs doesn't help everyone. But in a study published in the journal Gastroenterology, about 3 out of 4 people with IBS had their symptoms ease right away after starting a low- FODMAP diet and felt the most relief after 7 days or more on the plan. For example, these foods are high in FODMAPs: Anything made with wheat, barley, or rye Apples Artichokes Artificial sweeteners like in chewing gum Beans Cashews Cauliflower Dried fruits Garlic and onions High-fructose corn syrup Honey Ice cream Mushrooms Pistachios Watermelon Low- FODMAP foods include: Almond, coconut, rice, and soy milks Bananas Bell peppers Blueberries Carrots Cucumbers Grapes Oats Potatoes Quinoa Rice Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens Tangerines Tomatoes There are many other foods on the high and low lists.


Question: When should I see a doctor about dry eyes after LASIK?

Answer: And that can lead to dry eye. But call your doctor immediately if you feel severe pain or if your vision or other symptoms get worse instead of better.


Question: How long will I have dry eyes after LASIK?

Answer: Dry eye is the most common complication for LASIK. About 95% of people report dry eye symptoms just after the procedure. For most people, dry eye symptoms are most noticeable in the months right after surgery.


Question: Why does LASIK cause dry eyes?

Answer: Dry eye is the most common complication for LASIK. About 95% of people report dry eye symptoms just after the procedure. Researchers don't fully understand why this happens, but they have some ideas. The surgery can cause some corneal nerve damage. During the procedure, the surgeon reshapes your cornea by removing some of the tissue under it. In the process, the surgeon cuts some of the nerves in your cornea. That doesn't affect your vision. But it may break down the communication between your cornea and the tear glands for a while. This usually returns to normal quickly. Another possible cause is inflammation from the surgery. Also, the new shape of your cornea may change the way your eyelid interacts with the surface of your eye. That may affect blinking or tear production. And that can lead to dry eye.


Question: How do you remove a stinger from a bee sting?

Answer: Try to remove the stinger immediately. Scrape a fingernail across the stinger to help remove it from your skin. Clean the area with soap and water. It's safer for you, though it takes more time and is more expensive.


Question: What should you do if you go into anaphylactic shock?

Answer: After you take the shot, call 911 right away for more treatment. If your doctor has prescribed an auto-injector for you, carry two at all times. Don't wait to use the auto-injector if you start to have symptoms of anaphylaxis. Even if what you're feeling turns out to not be allergy related, using it won't harm you. Also ask about a bee-sting kit (be sure you know how to give yourself the shot).


Question: What are the types of cholesterol?

Answer: Cholesterol is a kind of fat in your blood. It's often called "bad" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol is known as "good" cholesterol because it carries LDL cholesterol back to your liver, where it's broken down to be flushed out.


Question: How does testosterone affect cholesterol levels?

Answer: But higher testosterone can lead to lower levels of "good" cholesterol in healthy men between the ages of 20 and 50. Researchers haven't seen that happen in older men who take testosterone supplements, though. But other studies suggest that some men might be more likely to have heart trouble if they take testosterone supplements.


Question: What is testosterone and is it linked to cholesterol?

Answer: It helps control growth and development and is linked to sex drive, muscle, and bone mass. Researchers are studying the idea that it's also linked to cholesterol in some way. Some think it might help prevent heart disease, but there's no proof of that yet. The bottom line is that more study is needed for doctors to better understand the risks and benefits of using testosterone supplements.


Question: What are the symptoms of a frozen shoulder?

Answer: With frozen shoulder, the capsule becomes so thick and tight that it's hard to move. If you have frozen shoulder, you'll likely feel a dull or achy pain in one shoulder. You might also feel the pain in the shoulder muscles that wrap around the top of your arm. You might feel the same sensation in your upper arm. Your pain could get worse at night, which can make it hard to sleep. You'll typically go through three phases with a frozen shoulder. Each has its own unique symptoms and timeline.


Question: Can loneliness or isolation affect your immune system?

Answer: Connect with other people. People who meditate regularly may have healthier immune system responses, some studies show. In one experiment, people who meditated over an 8-week period made more antibodies to a flu vaccine than people who didn't meditate. Laughing is good for you.


Question: What are ways to manage stress?

Answer: You may have noticed you're more likely to catch a cold or other infection when you're not getting enough sleep. If you do come down with a cold or the flu, a bowl of chicken soup can help you get well faster, one study shows. People who meditate regularly may have healthier immune system responses, some studies show. Although there are many other things that affect your health, making meaningful connections with people is always a good idea.


Question: How can reducing stress keep you healthy?

Answer: Not getting enough sleep can lead to higher levels of a stress hormone. Exercise can also boost your body's feel-good chemicals and help you sleep better. And they still showed an increased immune system response 4 months later. People who feel connected to friends - whether it's a few close friends or a large group - have stronger immunity than those who feel alone, studies show. In one study, lonely freshmen had a weaker immune response to a flu vaccine than those who felt connected to others.


Question: How much exercise do I need for a healthy immune system?

Answer: Your lifestyle can affect how well your immune system can protect you from germs, viruses, and chronic illness. You may have noticed you're more likely to catch a cold or other infection when you're not getting enough sleep. Both of those are good for your immune system. It also helps you sleep better, which improves immune function.


Question: How much sleep do I need for a healthy immune system?

Answer: Not getting enough sleep can lead to higher levels of a stress hormone. It may also lead to more inflammation in your body. Although researchers aren't exactly sure how sleep boosts the immune system, it's clear that getting enough - usually 7 to 9 hours for an adult - is key for good health. In one experiment, people who meditated over an 8-week period made more antibodies to a flu vaccine than people who didn't meditate.


Question: Do cotton socks prevent athlete's foot?

Answer: The conditions are named by the part of the body where they occur. On the feet, tinea infection is called athlete's foot. Myth 8: You can't get athlete's foot if your feet are covered in shoes and socks all day The fungus that causes athlete's foot thrives in dark, damp places. Myth 12: To prevent athlete's foot, wear socks made of natural fibers - like cotton.


Question: How can reality orientation training help with treating dementia?

Answer: The person leading the session might use music from your loved one's past, or things like photos or treasured items, to help. They might have signs with that information placed around their home. Some people find this to be too much or even patronizing. If it's not working for your loved one, drop it.


Question: Why is good sleep so important for someone with dementia?

Answer: So encourage a calm routine. It helps for your loved one to avoid caffeinated tea and coffee, especially in the evening, and to limit daytime naps. Keep the end of the day quiet, without a blaring TV. Joining a local or online support group for people with dementia can also be comforting.


Question: What are the types of bedwetting?

Answer: Primary means bedwetting that has been ongoing since early childhood without a break. A child with primary bedwetting has never been dry at night for any significant length of time. Secondary bedwetting is bedwetting that starts up after the child has been dry at night for a significant period of time, at least 6 months. Secondary bedwetting can be a sign of an underlying medical or emotional problem.


Question: What allergy or cold medications should I avoid if I have high blood pressure?

Answer: Don't take decongestants unless your doctor tells you otherwise. They may raise your blood pressure. They also keep some high blood pressure drugs from working the way they should. Be careful, because many allergy medications contain antihistamines and a decongestant. Ask your pharmacist to check the ingredients for you.