Question: What causes Fournierâs gangrene?

Answer: Fournier's gangrene usually happens because of an infection in, or near, your genitals. Sources of the infection can include: Urinary tract infections Bladder infections Hysterectomies Abscesses (swollen body tissue that contains pus) Piercings In children, the causes can include: Insect bites Burns Circumcision While not actually considered causes of Fournier's gangrene, there are other conditions and medications that experts believe may make you more likely to get this disease, including: Diabetes Alcohol abuse Trauma to the genital area Steroids Chemotherapy HIV Obesity Cirrhosis (a liver disease) A certain type of diabetes medicine called sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 ( SGLT2) inhibitor Doctors can find the cause of Fournier's gangrene in about 90% of the cases.


Question: When should I see a pediatrician about my child's development?

Answer: Examples of this can include: Repetitive behaviors like hand-flapping, rocking, jumping, or twirling Constant moving (pacing) and âhyperâ behavior Fixations on certain activities or objects Specific routines or rituals (and getting upset when a routine is changed, even slightly) Extreme sensitivity to touch, light, and sound Not taking part in âmake-believeâ play or imitating others' behaviors Fussy eating habits Lack of coordination, clumsiness Impulsiveness (acting without thinking) Aggressive behavior, both with self and others Short attention span The earlier treatment for autism spectrum disorder begins, the more like it is to be effective. That's why knowing how to identify the signs and symptoms is so important. Make an appointment with your child's pediatrician if he doesn't meet these specific developmental milestones, or if he meets but loses them later on: Smiles by 6 months Imitates facial expressions or sounds by 9 months Coos or babbles by 12 months Gestures (points or waves) by 14 months Speaks with single words by 16 months and uses phrases of two words or more by 24 months Plays pretend or âmake-believeâ by 18 months


Question: What are common behavioral problems for people with autism?

Answer: Examples of this can include: Repetitive behaviors like hand-flapping, rocking, jumping, or twirling Constant moving (pacing) and âhyperâ behavior Fixations on certain activities or objects Specific routines or rituals (and getting upset when a routine is changed, even slightly) Extreme sensitivity to touch, light, and sound Not taking part in âmake-believeâ play or imitating others' behaviors Fussy eating habits Lack of coordination, clumsiness Impulsiveness (acting without thinking) Aggressive behavior, both with self and others Short attention span The earlier treatment for autism spectrum disorder begins, the more like it is to be effective.


Question: How does depression look different in men and women?

Answer: It is common for men to have them also, but the signs of depression in men may be different. Instead of appearing sad, men often can become irritable or aggressive, drink too much, or act recklessly. Men often don't recognize or admit they're depressed, and they are less likely than women to seek help for depression. Also, because the signs of depression in men can look different than they do in women, doctors may not diagnosis it as often. For these reasons, depression in men may often go unidentified and untreated.


Question: What are some old ideas about depression in men that need to end?

Answer: It's hard to shake the old ideas about depression in men: " Real men don't cry," and "men sure as hell have to always be in control of their feelings." But it's time to add this new idea to the list: Depression is a medical illness that's biologically different from everyday sadness, and it can afflict both men and women. You wouldn't ignore pneumonia or heart disease or diabetes. If you think you might have a clinical depression, be a real man and take care of yourself. Ask for help, and get treated.


Question: What is depression, and who gets it?

Answer: Depression is a serious but treatable medical condition -- a brain disease -- that can strike anyone. In America, more than 6 million men have depression each year. If left untreated, it can result in personal, family, and financial problems. The most serious consequence of depression in men is suicide. Men are four times more likely than women to commit suicide.


Question: What are the signs of a more serious reaction to poison ivy, oak, and sumac?

Answer: Don't use any of these: Antihistamine creams or lotions Anesthetic creams with benzocaine Antibiotic creams with neomycin or bacitracin Some people have a more serious reaction to poison ivy, oak, or sumac. Make an appointment with your doctor if you notice any of these problems: Temperature over 100 F Pus on the rash Soft yellow scabs Itching that gets worse or keeps you up at night The rash spreads to your eyes, mouth, or genital area Your rash doesn't get better within a few weeks Your doctor may prescribe an oral corticosteroid, such as prednisone. She may also give you a steroid cream to apply to your skin. If the rash becomes infected, you may need to take an oral antibiotic.


Question: What do I need to know about treatments for poison ivy, oak, and sumac?

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(); }); } If you think your skin rubbed up against one of the poisonous plants, wash the area thoroughly with soap and cool water right away. The sooner you clean your skin, the more likely you'll be able to remove the oils that cause an allergic reaction. It's also a good idea to wash all clothes and shoes that may have touched one of the plants, too. A rash due to poison ivy, oak, or sumac may show up right away. But sometimes it can take a few days after you had contact with the plant for a rash to appear.


Question: When should I get emergency care for poison ivy, oak, and sumac?

Answer: If you have a severe reaction to poison ivy, oak, or sumac, you should go to the emergency room right away. Some signs that you need medical help quickly are: Trouble breathing Difficulty swallowing An eyelid swells shut Rash on your face or genitals Your skin itches everywhere, and nothing makes it feel better


Question: How are social and emotional developmental delays in children treated?

Answer: There is no known cure for these conditions. However, treatment may include: special types of behavioral and skill-oriented therapy medication may help some problematic behaviors As with most types of delays, early treatment can make a big difference in the progress your child makes. Depending upon the diagnosis, treatment may also include play therapy or steps to aid attachment between parent and child.


Question: What are cognitive developmental delays in children?

Answer: By 3 months, contact the doctor if your child: does not smile at people does not pay attention to new faces, or seems frightened by them By 7 months, contact the doctor if your child: refuses to cuddle shows no affection for parents or caregivers shows no enjoyment around people cannot be comforted at night (after 5 months) does not smile without prompting (by 5 months) does not laugh or squeal (by 6 months) shows no interest in games of peek-a-boo (by 8 months) By 1 year, contact the doctor if your child: shows no back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles, or facial expressions (at 9 months) shows no back-and-forth gestures, such as waving, reaching, or pointing Problems with thinking, or cognitive delays, may be due to one or more of these reasons: genetic defects significant medical problems before birth exposure to something harmful in the environment, such as a toxin neglect Possible causes.


Question: How are language and speech developmental delays in children treated?

Answer: If you or your child's doctor suspects a speech delay, a referral will be placed for an evaluation by a speech-language pathologist. This specialist may test your child's hearing, assess your child's receptive and expressive language and then plan for speech therapy sessions with your child. If the delay is mild, the specialist or doctor may suggest that you: communicate more with your child -- talk, sing, and encourage repetition read daily to your child reinforce speech and language throughout the day get treatment for middle ear infections Warning signs of speech or language delays.


Question: What causes cognitive developmental delays in children?

Answer: Causes of cognitive delays include: a wide range of different learning disabilities exposure to alcohol or toxins before birth or afterward, including lead poisoning institutionalization or neglect during infancy or early childhood Down syndrome and other genetic disorders autism spectrum disorder severe newborn medical problems no known cause Types of treatment for cognitive delays.


Question: What are the types of treatment for vision developmental delays in children?

Answer: Early treatment can help correct many vision problems. Depending on the eye problem your child has, he or she may need: glasses or contact lenses special glasses surgery an eye patch Warning signs of vision problems.


Question: What are possible causes of social and emotional developmental delays in children?

Answer: Some causes of social and emotional delays include: neglect from early institutionalization or parental neglect ineffective parenting or attachment problems cognitive delays an unknown cause Another common cause of social and emotional developmental delays fall under the umbrella diagnosis autism spectrum disorder ( ASD). This was previously referred to as pervasive developmental disorder ( PDD), autism, asperger's and other names. ASD includes disorders that can cause a child have difficulty communicating, have repetitive behaviors and have language problems.


Question: What causes language and speech developmental delays in children?

Answer: A variety of problems may cause language and speech delays, including: exposure to more than one language -- which can cause mild delays in toddlers but not delays by the time they reach school age a learning disability child abuse or neglect a problem with the muscles controlling speech -- a disorder called dysarthria hearing loss, which may occur in children who have severe middle ear infections or occur as a result of certain medications, trauma, or genetic disorders autism spectrum disorders -- a group of neurological disorders that may involve impaired communication as well as impaired social interaction and cognitive skills no cause can be found Types of treatment.


Question: What are motor skill developmental delays in children?

Answer: Motor skill developmental delays may be related to problems with gross motor skills, such as crawling or walking, or fine motor skills, such as using fingers to grasp a spoon.


Question: What are possible causes of motor skill developmental delays in children?

Answer: Children who are born prematurely may not develop muscles at the same rate as other children. Other possible causes of motor delays include: ataxia, a defect that impairs muscle coordination cerebral palsy, a condition caused by brain damage before birth cognitive delays myopathy, a disease of the muscles problems with vision spina bifida, a genetic condition causing partial or total paralysis of the lower part of the body Types of treatment for motor skill delays.


Question: What are the types of developmental delay in children?

Answer: There are many different types of developmental delays in infants and young children. They include problems with: language or speech vision movement -- motor skills social and emotional skills thinking -- cognitive skills Sometimes, a delay occurs in many or all of these areas.


Question: Are language and speech developmental delays common in children?

Answer: Speech delays in toddlers are common. In fact, language and speech problems are the most common type of developmental delay. Speech refers to verbal expression, including the way words are formed. Language is a broader system of expressing and receiving information, such as being able to understand gestures.


Question: What are vision developmental delays in children?

Answer: By 3 to 4 months, contact the doctor if your child: does not respond to loud noises does not babble begins babbling but does not try to imitate sounds (by 4 months) By 7 months, contact the doctor if your child: does not respond to sounds By 1 year, contact the doctor if your child: does not use any single words (like "mama") does not understand words like "bye bye'' or "no" By 2 years, contact the doctor if your child: cannot speak at least 15 words does not use two-word phrases without repetition; can only imitate speech does not use speech to communicate more than immediate needs Until 6 months, a newborn's vision is normally blurry. Then it improves as the child begins to coordinate sight in both eyes. However, sometimes this does not happen or other vision problems show up.


Question: Can kegel exercises help treat bladder spasms?

Answer: Kegels and other forms of physical therapy help strengthen and relax the bladder and other muscles that help the body hold in urine. Kegels, combined with biofeedback, are often a good way to help reduce bladder spasms in children. To tighten your pelvic muscles, squeeze your muscles in the same way as if you were trying to stop the flow of urine or prevent yourself from passing gas. Kegel exercises take practice, and tightening the wrong muscles can put more pressure on your bladder. Ask your doctor for specific instructions.


Question: Are there complementary and alternative therapies for bladder spasms?

Answer: Acupuncture. Some research has suggested that bladder-specific acupuncture may significantly reduce bladder muscle contractions and the urge to use the bathroom. Biofeedback. Biofeedback is a method that teaches the mind how to control normally automated body functions. Bladder training is a type of biofeedback. Some doctors believe biofeedback and behavioral changes work better than medicines for treating urge incontinence.


Question: Can foods or drinks cause bladder spasms?

Answer: Medications that commonly cause bladder spasms include: Bethanechol (urecholine) A chemotherapy drug called valrubicin ( Valstar) Medicines called diuretics, such as furosemide ( Lasix) or hydrochlorothiazide, which help the body remove excess water What you eat or drink can sometimes bother a fragile bladder and cause it to go into a spasm. This is especially true in patients who have a condition called interstitial cystitis. Spicy, acidic, or citrusy foods and the chemicals in certain preservatives and food additives may irritate the lining of the bladder in some people. Such products may include: Alcohol Artificial sweeteners Caffeinated beverages such as soda, coffee, and tea Chocolate Citrus fruits and drinks, such as oranges and orange juice Pickled foods Tomatoes How your doctor treats your bladder spasms depends on what exactly is causing your painful symptoms.


Question: Who gets bladder spasms?

Answer: Anyone at any age can have bladder spasms. In children, bladder spasms (also called pediatric unstable bladder or uninhibited bladder) are the leading cause of daytime incontinence. However, you are more likely to have bladder spasms with urine leakage if you: Are elderly Are going through menopause Have diabetes Are obese Recently had a baby or are pregnant Have a urinary tract infection Have recently had lower abdominal or pelvic surgery Have bladder muscle damage caused by disease or injury Have a neurologic disease such as stroke or spinal cord injury There are a number of different causes of bladder spasms.


Question: When should you see your doctor about bladder spasms?

Answer: Call your doctor if you have: Pain or cramping in your pelvic or lower abdominal area Pain or burning while urinating Urgent or frequent need to use the bathroom Leakage of urine Blood in your urine If you have or think you are having bladder spasms, it is important that you see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Your symptoms may be due to an infection that can be treated. In rare cases, bladder spasms may be a sign of a serious underlying condition.


Question: Can nervous system disorders and injuries cause bladder spasms?

Answer: Nervous system disorders and injury that can cause bladder spasms include: Brain tumor Cerebral palsy Herpes zoster infection that affects the nerves in the sacrum Multiple sclerosis Parkinson's disease Multiple system atrophy ( Shy- Drager syndrome) Spinal cord injury Stroke that has caused brain damage Diabetic neuropathy (when the nerves are damaged by longstanding diabetes) Surgery to the lower abdominal area may weaken the bladder or pelvic floor muscles, or cause damage to the nerves that control the bladder.


Question: Can pain medicines and sedatives treat bladder spasms?

Answer: These may be given to patients who have catheter-related bladder spasms after surgery. But they don't always take away all the discomfort. Some research suggests that a prescription anti-inflammatory medicine called ketorolac may help relieve or prevent catheter- or surgery-related bladder spasms in children.


Question: Can electrical stimulation implants treat bladder spasms?

Answer: This is placed under the skin to deliver gentle electrical pulses to the bladder at regularly timed intervals. Your doctor may recommend this therapy if you have severe bladder spasms and urge incontinence that does not get better with other treatments.


Question: Can TENS treat bladder spasms?

Answer: Electrical stimulation through the skin (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, or TENS) sends mild electrical pulses to the bladder through patches applied to the skin. It's believed the electric signals help you feel better by increasing blood flow and releasing hormones that block pain.


Question: Can Botox help with bladder spasms?

Answer: Botox prevents nerves from releasing chemicals that tell muscles to contract. The Botox is injected directly into the bladder muscle wall.


Question: Are there medicines for bladder spasms?

Answer: The most commonly prescribed drugs to relax the bladder and prevent spasms are called anticholinergics. They include tolterodine tartrate ( Detrol LA), oxybutynin chloride ( Ditropan), darifenacin ( Enablex), mirabegron ( Myrbetriq), oxybutynin ( Oxytrol), trospium chloride ( Sanctura XR), and solifenacin ( Vesicare). Common side effects are constipation and dry mouth. An antidepressant called imipramine hydrochloride ( Tofranil) also helps relax the bladder and reduces bladder spasms. Medicines called alpha-blockers (such as terazosin or doxazosin) may be given to help the bladder relax and allow the bladder to empty completely.


Question: What are side effects of hyaluronic acid for osteoarthritis?

Answer: These reactions generally are mild and do not last long. You should not take this product if you have had an allergic reaction to hyaluronan products in the past. Corticosteroid Injections Name How It's Given Methylprednisolone acetate 1 injection (can be repeated every 3 months, but should be limited as much as possible; no more than 4 times a year) Triamcinolone 1 injection (can be repeated every 3 months, but should be limited as much as possible) * Relief from higher doses may last 16 to 24 weeks. Side effects include short-term pain flare-up, flushing of the face, thinning of skin or fat near the injection site, and risk of serious allergic reaction.


Question: When should I avoid both types of injections for osteoarthritis?

Answer: For Both Types of Injections You should not have an injection into the knee if you have a knee joint infection or skin diseases or infections around the injection site.


Question: What causes low vision?

Answer: It's the result of a variety of conditions and injuries. Age is also a factor. Eye problems like macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and optic neuropathy are more common among people over 45 and even more so if you're over 65.


Question: What conditions count as low vision?

Answer: The condition includes different degrees of sight loss. You might have a blind spot or an almost complete loss of sight. The Academy of Ophthalmology divides low vision into two categories based on the vision in your best eye: Partially sighted: Your vision is between 20/40 and 20/200 with conventional prescription lenses. Legally blind : Your vision is no better than 20/200 with conventional correction, or you have a restricted field of vision less than 20 degrees wide.


Question: How do you know if you have low vision?

Answer: Besides age-related retinal conditions, other possible causes include: Glaucoma Diabetes Cancer of the eye Albinism Stroke Eye trauma Brain injury You'll need an eye exam. Make an appointment with your eye doctor if vision troubles prevent you from daily activities like reading, travel, cooking, work, watching television, or school. Your eye doctor will use lighting, magnifiers, and special charts to test your visual acuity, depth perception, and visual fields.


Question: Can low vision be treated?

Answer: Some sight disorders, like diabetic retinopathy, can be treated to restore or maintain vision. When this isn't an option, low vision is permanent. However, many people with low vision find visual aids helpful. Popular products include: Telescopic glasses Lenses that filter light Magnifying glasses Handheld and freestanding magnifiers Closed-circuit television/video magnification Reading prisms Non-optical aids designed for people with low vision are also very helpful.


Question: Do environmental factors play a role in Crohn's disease?

Answer: Environmental factors may help trigger Crohn's disease. Also, it should be noted that because a potential trigger is linked or associated to a condition does not mean that it causes it. Associated environmental factors may include any of the following: Substances from something you've eaten Microbes such as bacteria or viruses Cigarette smoke Other substances that are yet unknown Environmental factors may contribute to Crohn's disease in one of these two ways: They may trigger an immune system response.


Question: Who is most likely to have Crohn's disease?

Answer: Brothers, sisters, children, and parents of persons with IBD, including Crohn's disease, are slightly more likely to develop the disease themselves. About 10% to 20% of people with Crohn's disease have at least one other family member who also has the disease. The condition is more common in certain ethnic groups, such as Jews, and is more prevalent in Caucasians.


Question: What do scientists think causes Crohn's disease?

Answer: Scientists believe that Crohn's disease is caused by a combination of these factors: Immune system problems Genetics Environmental factors How might each of these factors contribute to Crohn's disease?


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

Answer: The factors involved in causing Crohn's disease are complex. Scientists continue to seek more information about the causes -- in hopes of finding better ways to diagnose, treat, and perhaps even cure this frustrating and painful disease. In the meantime, understanding current theories about the causes of Crohn's disease can help you work with your doctor to explore how various treatments might work to control this condition.


Question: Is Crohn's disease passed genetically?

Answer: Scientists have identified a gene associated with Crohn's disease. This gene helps the body decide how to react to certain microbes. If the gene has changed or mutated in some way, your body's reaction to microbes may also be different from the normal reaction. Over time, IBD or Crohn's disease may develop. People with Crohn's disease have this mutated gene twice as often as people who do not have the disease.


Question: How many people with Crohn's disease will require another surgery?

Answer: In about half of adults who have a resection to treat Crohn's disease, the disease recurs (comes back) within 5 years. The recurrence is normally near the site of the joining of two sections of healthy bowel -- anastomosis -- or at the site of the ileostomy. The risk of recurrence may be lessened by taking medication to reduce inflammation. These medications include drugs that manipulate the immune system response. These drugs are known as immunomodulators r biologic medications. . Often, recurrent Crohn's disease needs treatment that involves only medication. But about half of people who get recurrent Crohn's disease will need another operation.


Question: What are some medications that treat Crohn's disease?

Answer: When Crohn's disease is active, treatment has three objectives: Relieve symptoms Control inflammation Get proper nutrition Medications are generally the first step in treating Crohn's disease. A partial list of these drugs includes: Anti-inflammatories Antibiotics Antidiarrheal medicine Immune suppressors, including: Corticosteroids Immunomodulators - azathioprine ( Imuran), 6- MPBiologic Medications - infliximab ( Remicade), adulimumab For people with nutrition problems, doctors often prescribe supplements.


Question: How does a colectomy treat Crohn's disease?

Answer: Colectomy is the removal of the entire colon. This might be done if the disease is severe and extensive enough. It may be possible to connect the rectum to the small intestine -- ileum -- if the rectum is not affected by Crohn's disease.


Question: How long can remission last with Crohn's disease?

Answer: People with Crohn's disease have periods of severe symptoms. These are followed by periods with no symptoms when the disease is in remission. With Crohn's disease, remission can last for weeks or even years. But there is no way to know when a remission will happen or when symptoms will return.


Question: What are the complications of Crohn's disease that might require surgery?

Answer: People who have the following complications may need surgery: The formation of a stricture (a scar), which is a narrowing in the bowel that can cause obstructions (blockages) Extensive bleeding in the intestine A hole, or perforation, in the bowel wall The formation of a fistula, a connection between two parts of the body that do not normally connect An abscess, a pocket of pus caused by infection A condition known as toxic megacolon, in which the colon, or large intestine, is severely stretched out and toxins spread through your blood.


Question: How does strictureplasty treat Crohn's disease?

Answer: Crohn's disease in the small intestine often shows up in alternating areas of the bowel. As a result, a diseased portion of the bowel is connected to a disease-free portion. Strictureplasty is a surgical procedure to widen the narrow area of the small intestine in a portion that is affected by the disease. No part of the intestine is removed.


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

Answer: In about half of adults who have a resection to treat Crohn's disease, the disease recurs (comes back) within 5 years. The recurrence is normally near the site of the joining of two sections of healthy bowel -- anastomosis -- or at the site of the ileostomy.


Question: What  complications of Crohn's disease might require surgery?

Answer: People who have the following complications may need surgery: The formation of a stricture (a scar), which is a narrowing in the bowel that can cause obstructions (blockages) Extensive bleeding in the intestine A hole, or perforation, in the bowel wall The formation of a fistula, a connection between two parts of the body that do not normally connect An abscess, a pocket of pus caused by infection A condition known as toxic megacolon, in which the colon, or large intestine, is severely stretched out and toxins spread through your blood.


Question: What parts of the body does Crohn's disease commonly affect?

Answer: Crohn's disease most commonly affects the lower part of the small intestine, known as the ileum. But it can happen in any part of the large or small intestine, stomach, esophagus, or even the mouth. It can happen at any age, but it's most common between the ages of 15 and 30.


Question: How can clinical trials help with stage I breast cancer?

Answer: Clinical trials are something else to consider. They're open to many women with stage I cancer, and they may allow you access to cutting-edge treatments. Talk to your doctor to find out more about them.


Question: How is surgery used to treat stage I breast cancer?

Answer: Surgery is standard treatment for this stage. Since the tumor is small, you may have a lumpectomy -- just the tumor and some of the tissue around it are removed. Some women get a mastectomy, in which the whole breast is removed. In either case, the surgeon will likely take out one or more lymph nodes. After a mastectomy, you might choose to have breast reconstruction surgery.


Question: How is hormone therapy used to treat stage I breast cancer?

Answer: Hormone therapy is a good option after surgery for women who have tumors that use hormones to grow, called hormone receptor-positive cancer. Medication can help prevent tumors from getting hormones. These drugs include tamoxifen for all women, and anastrozole ( Arimidex), exemestane ( Aromasin), and letrozole ( Femara) for postmenopausal women. Women who haven't reached menopause may consider having their ovaries removed to stop making hormones that help cancer grow.


Question: How is radiation therapy used to treat stage I breast cancer?

Answer: Radiation therapy can kill cancer cells that were missed. It's usually given after a lumpectomy. Women with stage I cancer who get a mastectomy sometimes need radiation, too.


Question: How common is bedwetting?

Answer: About 40% of 3-year-olds wet the bed.


Question: What should I tell my child during bedwetting treatment?

Answer: Assure your child that bedwetting in children is common. It's nothing to be ashamed of and almost all children eventually outgrow it. Make sure siblings understand this as well. Don't allow them to tease the bedwetter.


Question: Can a stress test cause discomfort?

Answer: Tell them if you feel: Chest or arm discomfort Short of breath Dizzy Lightheaded Any other unusual symptoms It's normal for your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and perspiration to increase during the test.


Question: How long does an exercise stress test appointment last?

Answer: Although the appointment lasts about 60 minutes, the exercise time is usually between 7 and 12 minutes.


Question: What should I wear the day of a stress test?

Answer: Wear soft-soled shoes suitable for walking and comfortable clothes. Don't bring valuables.


Question: What is a dobutamine or adenosine stress test?

Answer: Dobutamine or adenosine stress test: This is for people unable to exercise. You'll take a drug to make the heart respond as if you were exercising. This way, the doctor can still determine if there are blockages in the arteries.


Question: What is a nuclear stress test?

Answer: Nuclear stress test: This helps figure out which parts of the heart are not working well. A small amount of radioactive substance will be injected into you. Your doctor will use a special camera to see rays emitted from the substance in your body. This will give him clear pictures of the heart tissue on a monitor. These pictures are done at rest and after exercise. Your doctor will be able to spot areas of your heart that aren't getting enough blood. The test could last to up to 4 hours to allow enough time for the radioactive substance to flow through your body.


Question: What happens after an exercise stress test?

Answer: After the test, you'll walk or pedal slowly for a couple of minutes to cool down. Your heart rate, blood pressure, and EKG will continue to be monitored until the levels begin returning to normal.


Question: Why do I need an exercise stress test?

Answer: Your doctor uses the test to: Help to assess symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath or palpitations, to determine whether they are coming from the heart See if enough blood flows to your heart as you get more active Learn how your heart medications are working Find out if it's likely that you have coronary heart disease and need more testing Identify abnormal heart rhythms See how well your heart valves are working Help you develop a safe exercise program Don't eat or drink anything except water for 4 hours before the test.


Question: How is central diabetes insipidus treated?

Answer: If your central DI is mild, the treatment for central DI is simple: Drink more water. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe desmopressin or DDAVP, which is a type of vasopressin. Desmopressin controls urine output, maintains fluid balance, and prevents dehydration. You take it two to three times a day, usually as a nasal spray, tablets, or injections. Carry your medication with you and avoid situations where you can't get water. It's also a good idea to wear "medic alert" jewelry, or keep a note with you about your condition, so that health care workers know about it.


Question: What are the symptoms of central diabetes insipidus in children?

Answer: People with central DI usually have the following symptoms: Frequent urination -- more than 3 liters of urine a day Frequent nighttime awakening to pee Involuntary urination during sleep (bed-wetting) Pale, colorless urine Low measured concentration of urine Extreme thirst -- often drinking more than 1 gallon of liquid per day In severe cases, or if a person can't get enough liquid to drink, central diabetes insipidus can cause: Dehydration Confusion Loss of consciousness Symptoms of central DI in children may be: Low energy Irritability Slow growth Weight loss Fever Vomiting A checkup may not show any signs of central DI, except perhaps for an enlarged bladder or symptoms of dehydration.


Question: What can central diabetes insipidus cause?

Answer: People with central DI usually have the following symptoms: Frequent urination -- more than 3 liters of urine a day Frequent nighttime awakening to pee Involuntary urination during sleep (bed-wetting) Pale, colorless urine Low measured concentration of urine Extreme thirst -- often drinking more than 1 gallon of liquid per day In severe cases, or if a person can't get enough liquid to drink, central diabetes insipidus can cause: Dehydration Confusion Loss of consciousness Symptoms of central DI in children may be: Low energy Irritability Slow growth Weight loss Fever Vomiting A checkup may not show any signs of central DI, except perhaps for an enlarged bladder or symptoms of dehydration.


Question: What are the symptoms of central diabetes insipidus?

Answer: People with central DI usually have the following symptoms: Frequent urination -- more than 3 liters of urine a day Frequent nighttime awakening to pee Involuntary urination during sleep (bed-wetting) Pale, colorless urine Low measured concentration of urine Extreme thirst -- often drinking more than 1 gallon of liquid per day In severe cases, or if a person can't get enough liquid to drink, central diabetes insipidus can cause: Dehydration Confusion Loss of consciousness Symptoms of central DI in children may be: Low energy Irritability Slow growth Weight loss Fever Vomiting A checkup may not show any signs of central DI, except perhaps for an enlarged bladder or symptoms of dehydration.


Question: What should you check for when avoiding sugar to avoid high cholesterol?

Answer: And here are common added sugars to check for: Brown sugar Corn sweeteners and syrup Dextrose and fructose Fruit juice concentrates Glucose High fructose corn syrup Lactose Maltose Sucrose Foods that have one or more of those things listed high on the ingredient list may have a lot of sugar.


Question: How can you lower your cholesterol?

Answer: Naturally cholesterol-free and low-fat, fruits and vegetables are the foundation of a good diet.


Question: Which whole grains should you buy to avoid high cholesterol?

Answer: Whole grains: Oats, quinoa, barley, and whole wheat offer up fiber, complex carbohydrates, and protein. Look for breads, pastas, and cereals made with a variety of whole grains.


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

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


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

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


Question: What should you know about radiation therapy?

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


Question: How can radiation therapy affect men?

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


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

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


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

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


Question: How can you manage nausea from radiation therapy?

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


Question: What mouth problems can radiation therapy cause?

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


Question: How can you manage diarrhea from radiation therapy?

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


Question: Does radiation therapy cause diarrhea?

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


Question: Does radiation therapy cause nausea?

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


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

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


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

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


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

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


Question: Can radiation therapy cause cancer?

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


Question: Does radiation therapy cause hearing problems?

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


Question: What mouth problems can happen from radiation therapy?

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


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

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


Question: Does radiation treatment have side effects?

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


Question: What are your options for treating advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: Your main options for treating advanced prostate cancer are: Radiation Hormone therapy Surgery Watchful waiting or active surveillance Radiation therapy uses high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells.


Question: How is vaccine therapy used to treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: Most vaccines help your body prevent disease, but some also treat conditions like cancer. Sipuleucel- T ( Provenge) removes cells from your blood and exposes them to a protein from prostate cancer cells in a lab. Then your doctor injects the cells back in your body to attack the cancer. This treatment is for men with advanced disease when hormone therapy has stopped working.


Question: What are the side effects of hormone therapy?

Answer: Hormone therapy can cause side effects, such as: Low sex drive Erection problems Breast growth and tenderness Hot flashes Bone thinning Depending on how far your cancer has spread, your doctor might be able to remove it with one of two operations.


Question: Which antiandrogens are used to treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: They stop prostate cancer cells from using any male hormones, called androgens. You might take them along with a Gn RH agent. The drugs include: Bicalutamide ( Casodex) Flutamide Nilutamide ( Nilandron) Newer types of hormone therapy include: Abiraterone acetate ( Zytiga), which stops prostate cancer cells (and other cells) from making androgens.


Question: What are the side effects of radiation for advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: Your doctor will do everything he can to keep from damaging other parts of your body, but some men have side effects from radiation, such as: Diarrhea, blood in their stool, and other bowel problems Trouble controlling urination, or a leaky bladder Erection problems Feeling tired Male hormones like testosterone fuel the growth of prostate cancer cells.


Question: How is chemotherapy used to treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: Drugs kill cancer cells throughout your body. You might get chemo if the disease has spread outside your prostate and hormone therapy isn't working. It might also ease symptoms.


Question: How is external beam radiation therapy used to treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: Doctors might give you this therapy in a few of different ways: External beam radiation therapy ( EBRT) focuses X-rays on your prostate from a machine outside your body. The doctor will direct the radiation right to the gland and adjust the dose to target the cancer without damaging other parts of your body. The treatment takes just a few minutes, and it doesn't hurt. You'll probably go in to a clinic and get it 5 days per week for about 7 to 9 weeks.


Question: How can clinical trials help with advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: Scientists are always looking for new ways to treat prostate cancer in clinical trials. These trials test new drugs to see if they're safe and if they work. They often are a way for people to try new medicine that isn't available to anyone. Your doctor can tell you if one of these trials might be a good fit for you.


Question: Which GnRH agents are used to treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: They work in different ways to keep your body from making luteinizing hormone ( LH), which it needs to make testosterone. Drugs include: Buserelin ( Suprefact) Degarelix ( Firmagon) Goserelin ( Zoladex) Histrelin ( Vantas) Leuprolide ( Eligard, Lupron Depot) Triptorelin ( Trelstar) Anti-androgens.


Question: How are bisphosphonates used to treat advanced prostate cancer?

Answer: These drugs relieve the pain of prostate cancer that has spread to bones.


Question: How is a venography used to diagnose deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Answer: The doctor injects a radioactive dye into a vein on the top of your foot to help them see your veins and maybe a clot. It's more accurate than an ultrasound, but there's a slight chance it will cause more blood clots.


Question: What is deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Answer: Deep vein thrombosis can have the same symptoms as many other health problems. But about half the time, this blood clot in a deep vein, often in your leg, causes no symptoms.


Question: When should you call your doctor about deep vein thrombosis (DVT)?

Answer: Call your doctor right away if you have these DVT symptoms, especially if they appear suddenly: Swelling in one or both legs Pain or tenderness in your leg, ankle, foot, or arm.


Question: What is inhaled insulin?

Answer: Inhaled insulin is a new type of rapid-acting insulin that you breathe in. In people with type 1, inhaled insulin (called Afrezza) can only be used before meals and has to be used in combination with injectable long-acting insulin.


Question: What types of insulin can I give to my child before meals if they have type 1 diabetes?

Answer: Before Meals Rapid-acting starts working about 15 minutes after you take it, peaks in about an hour, and lasts for 2 to 4 hours. Short-acting (sometimes called regular) starts working in 30 minutes, peaks 2 to 3 hours later, and lasts between 3 to 6 hours. You figure out the dose based on your child's current blood sugar levels and how many carbohydrates she is going to eat.


Question: How do insulin pumps treat type 1 diabetes?

Answer: Insulin pumps are the methods of choice for many people with type 1. An insulin pump is a wearable device that stays attached to your body via a catheter. It gives you a steady dose throughout the day and can also give you an extra surge (called a bolus) before meals. You'll still have to check blood sugar (just as you would when using a syringe or a pen) before meals so that you can tell the device how much insulin you need at that time. Some new pumps also have monitors to alert you of highs and lows, but you set the dosage. Others can display information from a continuous glucose monitor, which tracks the levels every few minutes, 24 hours a day.


Question: What types of insulin has a fixed dose to treat type 1 diabetes?

Answer: Fixed Dose Intermediate-acting starts working in 2 to 4 hours, peaks 4 to 12 hours later, and lasts for 12 to 18 hours. Long-acting starts working several hours after an injection and lowers glucose evenly over a 24-hour period. Your child may take this once a day, such as before bedtime.


Question: What happens if my child's blood sugar drops due to type 1 diabetes?

Answer: Your child may need her blood sugar checked as many as 10 times a day, including before meals, before bedtime, before exercise, and any time symptoms indicate that blood sugar could be shifting too high or too low. If her blood sugar falls too low, she'll need to eat a carb-rich food (like juice or candy) or use a product such as a glucose tablet or gel.


Question: How are low vision aids used to treat age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: You can get devices that have special lenses or electronic systems that enlarge images of nearby objects.


Question: How are anti-angiogenic drugs used to treat age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: Your doctor injects these medications into your eye. They stop new blood vessels from forming and block the leaking from the abnormal vessels that cause wet macular degeneration. Some people who take these drugs have been able to regain vision that they lost from AMD. You will likely need to get the treatment repeated on follow-up visits.


Question: Is there a cure for age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: There's no cure, but treatment for age-related macular degeneration ( AMD) may slow the disease and keep you from having a severe loss of vision. Talk to your doctor about the best way to manage your condition.


Question: How is photodynamic laser therapy used to treat age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: It's a two-step treatment that uses a light-sensitive drug to damage your abnormal blood vessels. Your doctor injects a medication into your bloodstream, which gets absorbed by the abnormal blood vessels in your eye. Next, he shines a laser into the eye to activate the drug, which damages the abnormal blood vessels.


Question: Does treating wet AMD cure it?

Answer: Sometimes, even after you get treatment for wet AMD, the condition can come back. Test your vision regularly and follow the recommendations of your doctor. The right treatment not only slows your vision loss, but it can improve your vision.


Question: How can you prevent age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: The earlier you get a diagnosis of AMD, the greater the chance that treatment will help. See your eye doctor if you have any symptoms of AMD, and make sure you keep a regular schedule of eye exams. Try these prevention tips: Check your sight every day by looking at an Amsler grid -- a pattern of straight lines that's like a checkerboard. It can help you spot changes in your vision. Stop smoking, eat a balanced diet that includes leafy green vegetables, and protect your eyes with sunglasses that block harmful ultraviolet ( UV) rays. Supplements with antioxidants plus zinc may lower your odds of getting AMD, according to the Age- Related Eye Disease Study. If you're over 65, your vision exams should include testing for AMD.


Question: How can low vision aids help with age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: You can get devices that have special lenses or electronic systems that enlarge images of nearby objects.


Question: How do anti-angiogenic drugs treat age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: Your doctor injects these medications into your eye. They stop new blood vessels from forming and block the leaking from the abnormal vessels that cause wet macular degeneration. Some people who take these drugs have been able to regain vision that they lost from AMD. You will likely need to get the treatment repeated on follow-up visits.


Question: What is the outlook for age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: People rarely lose all of their sight from age-related macular degeneration. You may have poor central vision, but even with advanced AMD you'll still be able to see things to the side, outside your direct line of sight. And you'll still be able to do many of your regular daily activities. With the severe form of either wet or dry AMD, your central vision may decrease to less than 20/200 in both eyes. Even though you'll have peripheral vision, your vision problems meet the definition of legal blindness. The dry form of AMD, which is much more common, tends to get worse more slowly, allowing you to keep most of your vision. Sometimes, even after you get treatment for wet AMD, the condition can come back. Test your vision regularly and follow the recommendations of your doctor. The right treatment not only slows your vision loss, but it can improve your vision.


Question: What are the next steps for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: Some people with the dry form of AMD can develop the wet form. If you've got the dry form now, it's important to keep a check on your vision. Perform a vision check one a week, testing each eye separately. Follow the directions for using an Amsler Grid Chart, which you can place on your refrigerator, or you can view it on a tablet or computer. Let your doctor know if you have any changes. If you have the wet form of macular degeneration, even if it's been treated, you should test your vision to see if any blind spots grow bigger or if any new blind spots appear. New blood vessels can emerge months or years after you had injections or laser treatment. If you only have AMD in one eye, your doctor will do regular eye exams on your other eye to check for signs of new problems.


Question: What should I do if I am diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration?

Answer: Some people with the dry form of AMD can develop the wet form. If you've got the dry form now, it's important to keep a check on your vision. Perform a vision check one a week, testing each eye separately. Follow the directions for using an Amsler Grid Chart, which you can place on your refrigerator, or you can view it on a tablet or computer. Let your doctor know if you have any changes. If you have the wet form of macular degeneration, even if it's been treated, you should test your vision to see if any blind spots grow bigger or if any new blind spots appear. New blood vessels can emerge months or years after you had injections or laser treatment. If you only have AMD in one eye, your doctor will do regular eye exams on your other eye to check for signs of new problems.


Question: What does the mean corpuscular volume mean from a complete blood count (CBC)?

Answer: This is the average size of your red blood cells. If they're bigger than normal, your MCV goes up. That could happen if you have low vitamin B12 or folate levels. If your red blood cells are smaller, you could have a type of anemia. A normal-range MCV score is 80 to 96.


Question: How is a complete blood count (CBC) done?

Answer: A nurse or lab tech will take a sample of blood by inserting a needle into a vein in your arm. She'll send it to the lab for review. You can leave and get right back to your normal routine.


Question: What do my results from a complete blood count (CBC) mean?

Answer: The normal range is 150,000 to 450,000 platelets/mc L When you get your report, you'll notice two columns: one called a âreference rangeâ and another for your results. If your results are inside the reference range, they're normal. If your results are higher or lower than the reference range, they're abnormal. Mild anemia is the most common reason your results might be off. Each lab has its own special equipment and different ways of analyzing your blood. So the reference range -- what's considered normal levels -- will depend on the lab that handles your blood tests. It'll also depend on you age, sex, and how high above sea level you live.


Question: What do platelets mean in a complete blood count (CBC)?

Answer: These play a role in clotting. This test measures the number of platelets in your blood. The normal range is 150,000 to 450,000 platelets/mc L When you get your report, you'll notice two columns: one called a âreference rangeâ and another for your results.


Question: What do white blood cells (WBC) levels mean from a complete blood count (CBC)?

Answer: These help to fight infections. If you have high WBC levels, it tells your doctor you have inflammation or infection somewhere in your body. If it's low, you could be at risk for infection. The normal range is 4,500 to 10,000 cells per microliter (cells/mc L). ( A microliter is a very tiny amount â one millionth of a liter).


Question: What does hemoglobin (Hb or Hgb) mean from a complete blood count (CBC)?

Answer: This is the protein in your blood that holds the oxygen. The normal range for men is 14 to 17.5 grams per deciliter (gm/d L); for women it's 12.3 to 15.3 gm/d L. Hct (hematocrit).


Question: What does hematocrit (Hct) mean from a complete blood count (CBC)?

Answer: This value provides information about how much of your blood is comprised of red blood cells. A low score on the range scale may be a sign that you have too little iron, the mineral that helps produce red blood cells. A high score could mean you're dehydrated or have another condition. The normal range for men is between 41.5% and 50.4%. For women the range is between 36.9% and 44.6%.


Question: What does a red blood cell count (RBC) mean from a complete blood count (CBC)?

Answer: RBC (red blood cell count). This is the number of red blood cells you have. These are important because they deliver oxygen through your body. They also help carry carbon dioxide. If your RBC count is too low, you may have anemia or another condition. ( If you have anemia, your blood has fewer red blood cells than normal.) The normal range for men is 4.5 million to 5.9 million cells/mc L; for women it's 4.1 million to 5.1 million cells/mc L. Hb or Hgb (hemoglobin).


Question: What else might my complete blood count (CBC) tell me?

Answer: It can reveal more information about your health, depending on what your doctor orders. Your doctor will know whether you have an illness or blood condition by measuring the following: MCH (mean corpuscular hemoglobin). How much hemoglobin (a protein) is in your typical red blood cell. It carries oxygen to your organs and tissues. MCHC (mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration). This measures the concentration of hemoglobin in a certain amount of blood. It is calculated by dividing the Hgb by Hct. RDW (red cell distribution width). How your much your red blood cells vary in size. Reticulocyte Count. This test measures the number of new red blood cells in your body. MPV (mean platelet volume). The average size of the platelets in your blood. PDW (platelet distribution width). How much your platelets vary in size. White Blood Cell Differential. There are five types of white blood cells. This test shows how many of each type you have: neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils.


Question: How should you take your medication?

Answer: 5 Drug DOs... DO take each medication exactly as it has been prescribed. DO make sure that all your doctors know about all your medications. DO let your doctors know about any other over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements, or herbs that you use. DO try to use the same pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions, so that they can help you keep track of everything you're taking. DO keep medications out of the reach of children and pets.


Question: What are things not do to when you take medication?

Answer: 5 Drug DON' Ts... DON' T change your medication dose or schedule without talking with your doctor. DON' T use medication prescribed for someone else. DON' T crush or break pills unless your doctor instructs you to do so. DON' T use medication that has passed its expiration date. DON' T store your medications in locations that are humid, too hot or too cold. For example, the bathroom cabinet may not be the best place for your medication.


Question: How can you safely get rid of old medicines?

Answer: Before flushing old medicines down the toilet or tossing them in a trash can, check if your city or county has a medicine take-back program. These are programs that allow the public to bring unused drugs to a central location for proper disposal. Call your city or county government's household trash and recycling service (see blue pages in phone book or go to your municipality's website) or check with your pharmacy to see if a take-back program is available in your community. While experts used to recommend flushing old medication down the toilet, the Environmental Protection Agency ( EPA) recommends against this because sewage plants may not be able to adequately remove drug ingredients from the water.


Question: How should you dispose of dangerous medication?

Answer: The FDA recommends flushing only if the drug label or accompanying information has instructions to do so. These are usually medicines that are very dangerous or fatal if they are taken by the wrong person, or if they are found by a child or pet. This includes the following medications: fentanyl buccal tablets ( Fentora) fentanyl citrate ( Actiq) fentanyl transdermal system ( Duragesic) hydromorphone hydrochloride ( Dilaudid) meperidine HCL tablets ( Demerol) methylphenidate transdermal patch ( Daytrana) morphine sulfate capsules ( Avinza, MS Contin) oxycodone and acetaminophen ( Percocet) oxycodone tablets ( Oxy Contin) sodium oxybate ( Xyrem) Other medications that should be flushed can be found on the FDA's website.


Question: What are the best tips for taking your medication right?

Answer: 5 Drug DOs... DO take each medication exactly as it has been prescribed. DO make sure that all your doctors know about all your medications. DO let your doctors know about any other over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements, or herbs that you use. DO try to use the same pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions, so that they can help you keep track of everything you're taking. DO keep medications out of the reach of children and pets. 5 Drug DON' Ts... DON' T change your medication dose or schedule without talking with your doctor. DON' T use medication prescribed for someone else. DON' T crush or break pills unless your doctor instructs you to do so. DON' T use medication that has passed its expiration date. DON' T store your medications in locations that are humid, too hot or too cold.


Question: When is it OK to flush away medications?

Answer: The FDA recommends flushing only if the drug label or accompanying information has instructions to do so. These are usually medicines that are very dangerous or fatal if they are taken by the wrong person, or if they are found by a child or pet. This includes the following medications: fentanyl buccal tablets ( Fentora) fentanyl citrate ( Actiq) fentanyl transdermal system ( Duragesic) hydromorphone hydrochloride ( Dilaudid) meperidine HCL tablets ( Demerol) methylphenidate transdermal patch ( Daytrana) morphine sulfate capsules ( Avinza, MS Contin) oxycodone and acetaminophen ( Percocet) oxycodone tablets ( Oxy Contin) sodium oxybate ( Xyrem) Other medications that should be flushed can be found on the FDA's website.


Question: Do androgens affect dry eye?

Answer: Dry eye may also be made better or worse by androgens, "male" hormones like testosterone, which both men and women make. For instance, women with polycystic ovary syndrome ( PCOS) often have dry eye. The disorder causes cysts and problems with ovulation because of too much androgens. Whether you're a man or woman, lower androgen levels may affect how well certain glands make tears or the oily film that keeps the surface of your eye moist.


Question: How do sex hormones make dry eye more likely in women?

Answer: If you're a woman, you're more likely to get dry eye, especially as you get older. That's because your levels of estrogen and other sex hormones change so much over your lifetime. For instance, you have a greater chance of getting dry eye when you go through menopause.


Question: What is hypoglycemia unawareness?

Answer: Most people with diabetes can drive safely. The exception is if you have a condition called hypoglycemia unawareness, which means low blood sugars hit you out of the blue, with no warning at all. It can be especially dangerous for you to be on the road. If this happens to you, talk to your doctor. You might be able to learn how to feel low blood sugar coming on.


Question: What is a prosthetic eye?

Answer: Your doctor will decide which method to use based on: type of eye condition you have degree of damage to the eye A prosthetic eye can improve the appearance of the affected eye socket. For most people it is vastly preferable to wearing an eye patch or bandage.


Question: How does a prosthetic eye function after surgery?

Answer: A prosthetic eye moves, but often not as fully or briskly as your other healthy eye. The pupil in a prosthetic eye does not change in response to light. So the pupils of the two eyes may appear unequal. The eye socket may continue to change shape after surgery. Additional fitting and adjustment of the prosthesis may be necessary for weeks or months after initial placement.


Question: Why might an eye be removed?

Answer: Some of the reasons why an eye may be removed are: injury glaucoma infection inside the eye eye tumors There are two surgical methods for removing a damaged eye.


Question: When should you call a doctor about a hammertoe?

Answer: Foot doctors are called podiatrists. Call one, or ask your doctor for a referral. The earlier you seek treatment, the likelier it is that the problem won't get worse. If you have diabetes or can't feel your feet well, you may need to have custom shoes to avoid open sores or infections.


Question: How can you manage irritable bowel disease (IBD) and psoriasis?

Answer: It's often helpful to have a specialist called a gastroenterologist as well as a dermatologist on your health care team. You and your team can decide what treatment is right for you based on what and how severe your symptoms are and the medication side effects you're willing to deal with. The same drug may work for both your psoriasis and IBD. But some biologic medications are more likely than others to trigger a flare for someone who already has an IBD. Following a gluten-free diet has helped some people clear their psoriasis lesions as well as manage celiac.


Question: What is the link between psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)?

Answer: There's a strong link between psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD. IBD includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis ( UC). Crohn's can affect any part of the stomach and intestines; UC usually affects the lower parts of your GI tract, the colon and rectum.


Question: Can the symptoms of celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) seem similar?

Answer: IBD ( Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis) symptoms include: Diarrhea Belly cramps Blood in your poop Celiac disease or gluten sensitivity symptoms in adults may include: Diarrhea Bad-smelling poop Fatigue Feeling weak, dizzy, or short of breath Cold hands and feet Sore, achy joints You might mistake celiac disease for psoriatic arthritis, because both can cause joint pain and fatigue. Your doctor can order a blood test that measures levels of antibodies to check whether gluten affects you.


Question: What is the link between psoriasis and celiac disease?

Answer: When you have celiac disease, you can't digest gluten, a protein in wheat, rye, and barley. Celiac disease can damage your small intestine and prevent it from absorbing key nutrients. The chance of getting celiac disease is nearly 3 times higher among people with psoriasis. About 4 of every 100 have it. Research shows that the higher the levels of specific antibodies related to celiac disease, the worse psoriasis tends to be.


Question: What other signs and symptoms can I develop from an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)?

Answer: If you have an enlarged spleen, you may develop other signs or symptoms, too. These are related to the underlying disease. They may include signs and symptoms such as: Fatigue Weight loss Frequent infections Easy bleeding Jaundice Anemia Your doctor will ask you questions and do a physical exam to diagnose an enlarged, painful spleen.


Question: How will my doctor diagnose an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)?

Answer: They may include signs and symptoms such as: Fatigue Weight loss Frequent infections Easy bleeding Jaundice Anemia Your doctor will ask you questions and do a physical exam to diagnose an enlarged, painful spleen. This involves palpating (examining by touch) your spleen. You will also likely need diagnostic tests to confirm the cause of the swollen spleen. These may include blood tests, an ultrasound, or computerized tomography ( CT) scan. In some cases, other tests may be needed.


Question: Can cancer cause an enlarged spleen (splenomegaly)?

Answer: Here are some common causes of an enlarged spleen: Infections Viral infections, such as mononucleosis Parasitic infections, such as toxoplasmosis Bacterial infections, such as endocarditis (an infection of your heart's valves) Cancer Leukemia, a cancer in which white blood cells displace normal blood cells Lymphoma, a cancer of lymph tissue, such as Hodgkin's disease Other causes of an enlarged spleen include: Inflammatory diseases such as sarcoidosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis Trauma, such as an injury during contact sports Cancer that has spread (metastasized) to the spleen A cyst, a noncancerous fluid-filled sac A large abscess, a pus-filled cavity usually caused by a bacterial infection Infiltrative diseases such as Gaucher disease, amyloidosis, or glycogen storage diseases Most people don't know they have an enlarged spleen because symptoms are rare.


Question: Are there foods to avoid to help prevent gout?

Answer: If gout runs in the family, men in particular should limit their intake of alcohol, fats, and foods that are more likely to increase uric acid level in the body -- meat, sardines, bacon, mussels, and yeast. Alcohol, especially beer, can also bring on an attack of gout. Such men should watch their weight with extra care.


Question: What are the main types of cardiomyopathy?

Answer: There are three main types of cardiomyopathy: Dilated cardiomyopathy Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy Ischemic cardiomyopathy Restrictive cardiomyopathy


Question: What is cardiomyopathy?

Answer: Cardiomyopathy, or heart muscle disease, is a type of progressive heart disease in which the heart is abnormally enlarged, thickened, and/or stiffened. As a result, the heart muscle's ability to pump blood is less efficient, often causing heart failure and the backup of blood into the lungs or rest of the body. The disease can also cause abnormal heart rhythms.


Question: What lifestyle triggers cause back pain?

Answer: Back pain can be brought on by things you do -- or don't do -- in your day-to-day life, like: Slouching at your desk Lifting heavy objects Being overweight Not exercising Smoking Wearing high heels Don't underestimate the power of feelings to bring on pain.


Question: What is dermatitis herpetiformis (DH)?

Answer: DH, also known Duhring's disease, causes blisters that look like herpes, but the condition doesn't come from the herpes virus. It's linked to gluten sensitivity. If you have celiac disease and eat gluten, your intestines make an antibody called Ig A in response. This chemical flows into your bloodstream and builds up in blood vessels under your skin. It triggers the DH rash.


Question: What are the symptoms of dermatitis herpetiformis?

Answer: The first thing you'll probably notice is a burning or stinging sensation on certain places on your skin. After that, clusters of small, red bumps pop up. They're very itchy, and can take several forms, like: Blisters Fluid-filled sores Sores that look like hives Raised sores You may mistake your bumps and blisters for eczema.


Question: How is dermatitis herpetiformis treated?

Answer: There's no cure for DH, but medications can help heal your rash. Your doctor might prescribe dapsone, which you take by mouth. It gets rid of your itching and bumps within 1-3 days. Your doctor may also recommend a topical corticosteroid cream to help with itching.


Question: How is gut bacteria linked to inflammatory bowel diseases?

Answer: Inflammatory bowel diseases, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis: People with these conditions are believed to have lower levels of certain anti-inflammatory gut bacteria. The exact connection is still unclear. But it's thought that some bacteria may make your body attack your intestines and set the stage for these diseases.


Question: How is gut bacteria linked to arthritis?

Answer: Arthritis: It's thought that people with rheumatoid arthritis may have greater amounts of a bacteria linked to inflammation than people without it.


Question: How is gut bacteria linked to anxiety, depression, and autism?

Answer: Anxiety, depression, and autism: The gut is packed with nerve endings that communicate with the brain. Your doctor may call this connection the âgut-brain axis.â Studies have suggested a link between gut bacteria and disorders of the central nervous system, like anxiety, depression, and autism spectrum disorder.


Question: What are gut bacteria?

Answer: Research suggests your gut bacteria are tied to your probability of things like diabetes, obesity, depression, and colon cancer. Living inside of your gut are 300 to 500 different kinds of bacteria containing nearly 2 million genes. Paired with other tiny organisms like viruses and fungi, they make what's known as the microbiota, or the microbiome. Like a fingerprint, each person's microbiota is unique: The mix of bacteria in your body is different from everyone else's mix. It's determined partly by your mother's microbiota -- the environment that you're exposed to at birth -- and partly from your diet and lifestyle. The bacteria live throughout your body, but the ones in your gut may have the biggest impact on your well-being. They line your entire digestive system. Most live in your intestines and colon. They affect everything from your metabolism to your mood to your immune system.


Question: How is gut bacteria linked to colon cancer?

Answer: Colon cancer: Studies show that people with it have a different gut microbiota, including higher levels of disease-causing bacteria, than healthy people.


Question: How is gut bacteria linked to diseases?

Answer: Research suggests the gut bacteria in healthy people are different from those with certain diseases. People who are sick may have too little or too much of a certain type. Or they may lack a wide variety of bacteria. It's thought some kinds may protect against ailments, while others may raise the risk.


Question: How do I prepare for the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test?

Answer: Tell your doctor if you have the following symptoms, which can be signs that something is wrong with your kidneys: â A change in how much you urinate â Pee that is foamy, bloody, discolored, or brown â Pain while you pee â Swelling in your arms, wrists, legs, ankles, around your eyes, face, or abdomen â Restless legs during sleep â Joint or bone pain â Pain in the mid-back where kidneys are located â You're tired all the time Before the blood test, tell your doctor what medications you're taking. If any of them might alter the test result, your doctor may ask you to stop taking them for a period of time. If you're only getting a BUN test, you can eat and drink.


Question: What happens during the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test?

Answer: You may feel a slight sting when the needle pricks through your skin. It may feel a little bit sore afterward, but you can go straight back to your everyday activities. Your doctor's office will send the blood sample to a lab to be analyzed. You should get the results in a few days, depending on how fast the lab and your doctor's office can work.


Question: What do high blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels mean?

Answer: Things that affect your BUN level might include: â High-protein diet (may cause high BUN levels) â Low-protein diet (may cause low BUN levels) â Several medications, including steroids and antibiotics (increased or decreased BUN levels) â Pregnancy â Aging High BUN levels can also indicate various problems with your kidneys. Talk to your doctor about what could be causing the problem and plan your next steps. High levels can also indicate the following: â Dehydration â Urinary tract obstruction (blockage from being able to pee) â Congestive heart failure (when your heart doesn't pump blood to your body like it should) â Shock â Burn injuries â Stress â Heart attack â Gastrointestinal bleeding (bleeding in your digestive tracts, such as your stomach, intestines, or esophagus) Low BUN levels are rare.


Question: When is a creatinine test used in addition to blood urea nitrogen (BUN) tests?

Answer: If you have low BUN levels, it could indicate: â Liver disease â Malnutrition (when your diet doesn't have enough nutrients or your body can't take them in well) â Overhydration (having too much fluid) But a BUN test is not a way to diagnose these issues, so more tests may be needed Your doctor may also order a creatinine test, which is another blood test that also checks your kidney health. This is because the BUN level by itself doesn't always reveal much. When your BUN levels are compared with your creatinine levels, it gives a fuller picture of what's happening with your kidneys. This is known as the BUN/ Creatinine ratio. Creatinine is a waste product from your muscles that is also filtered by your kidneys. Like BUN, high levels of creatinine could mean there is a lot of waste product that hasn't been removed by the kidneys. The ideal ratio of BUN to creatinine falls between 10-to-1 and 20-to-1. Having a ratio above this range could mean you may not be getting enough blood flow to your kidneys, and could have conditions such as congestive heart failure, dehydration, or gastrointestinal bleeding. A ratio below the normal range could mean liver disease or malnutrition.


Question: What are signs that something is wrong with my kidneys?

Answer: Tell your doctor if you have the following symptoms, which can be signs that something is wrong with your kidneys: â A change in how much you urinate â Pee that is foamy, bloody, discolored, or brown â Pain while you pee â Swelling in your arms, wrists, legs, ankles, around your eyes, face, or abdomen â Restless legs during sleep â Joint or bone pain â Pain in the mid-back where kidneys are located â You're tired all the time Before the blood test, tell your doctor what medications you're taking.


Question: What is a blood urea nitrogen (BUN) test?

Answer: Your liver breaks down the proteins in your food -- and while it does that, it creates blood urea nitrogen, also known as BUN. Your liver releases the substance into the blood, and it eventually ends up in your kidneys. When your kidneys are healthy, they remove the BUN, usually leaving a small amount of it in the blood. But for the most part, your kidneys get rid of it by flushing it out of your body through urine. When your kidneys are not healthy, they have trouble removing BUN and leave more of it in your blood. The blood urea nitrogen test, which is also called a BUN or serum BUN test, measures how much of the waste product you have in your blood. If your levels are off the normal range, this could mean that either your kidneys or your liver may not be working properly. Your doctor may order a BUN test as part of a routine checkup.


Question: What causes Parkinsonism related to Parkinson's disease?

Answer: Medically, parkinsonism refers to any condition that causes symptoms similar to Parkinson's disease tremors at rest, muscle rigidity, slow movement, and changes in walking. Parkinson's disease is probably the most common form of parkinsonism. Other conditions that cause it include: Medications such as reserpine, Thorazine Toxic exposures to carbon monoxide, cyanide Hypothyroidism Hypoparathyroidism A variety of other neurologic conditions affecting the nerves in the substantia nigra such as Wilson's disease (a condition causing abnormal deposition of copper in the brain) and progressive supranuclear palsy Learn more about other causes of Parkinson's.


Question: What kind of testing is needed before getting allergy shots for asthma, and what kinds of allergens do they cover?

Answer: It will probably involve skin testing, in which a small amount of the allergen is scraped onto or injected under your skin. Allergy shots aren't available for every kind of allergy. Allergy shots for asthma include shots for: Pollen Mold Dander Dust mites Cockroaches Once you and your doctor have discovered which allergens affect you, the next step is to get the shots.


Question: How often can I get allergy shots for asthma?

Answer: Allergy shots for asthma include shots for: Pollen Mold Dander Dust mites Cockroaches Once you and your doctor have discovered which allergens affect you, the next step is to get the shots. The frequency of the injections varies, but you might get them once or twice a week for the first three to six months -- or until you reach the maximum dose. After that, you might only need maintenance injections every two to four weeks. This might continue for three to five years. Although some people feel asthma symptom relief from their allergy injections quickly, it may take up to a year for others. In some people, allergy shots have no effect.


Question: How do allergy shots for asthma work?

Answer: Allergy shots are one type of treatment for asthma that may benefit those with allergies and asthma that is triggered by allergies, called allergic asthma. Also called immunotherapy, allergy shots are not an asthma cure like an injection of antibiotics might cure an infection. Instead, allergy shots work a bit more like a vaccine. Allergy shots for asthma actually contain a very small amount of an allergen (something you're allergic to). Over time, the dose is increased. By exposing you to greater and greater amounts of the allergen, your body is likely to develop a tolerance to it. If the treatment goes well, your allergic reaction will become much less severe. Allergy shots can reduce the symptoms of allergies and prevent the development of asthma.


Question: How are topical medications used to treat plaque psoriasis?

Answer: Treatment options include: Topical medications: If you have only a few plaques, your doctor will probably try a prescription cream first. You put these directly on your skin. They either help with inflammation or slow the growth of skin cells. Examples include corticosteroids, vitamin D, vitamin A, and anthralin. You can also try over-the-counter topical medicines. Both salicylic acid and coal tar are approved to treat psoriasis. Other ingredients may soothe itch and remove scale, including aloe vera, jojoba, zinc pyrithione, and capsaicin.


Question: How are systemic drugs used to treat plaque psoriasis?

Answer: Systemic drugs: If you have a severe case of plaque psoriasis, you may need medicines that work throughout your body. They calm your immune system or make your skin cells grow more slowly. But they can cause serious side effects, like depression, aggressive thoughts, liver problems, or a higher risk of skin cancer. You take systemic drugs like acitretin, cyclosporine, and methotrexate by pill, or your doctor will give you a shot.


Question: When are you more likely to get plaque psoriasis?

Answer: Whether you get plaque psoriasis depends on your genes and your health history: Heredity: Psoriasis seems to run in families. About 10% of people are born with genes that make them likely to get psoriasis. But only about 3% of people get the disease. Triggers: Something has to happen to start your immune system's reaction. Sometimes it's an injury to your skin or a bad sunburn. It could be a certain medicine, like lithium or malaria drugs. An infection, particularly strep, can bring on psoriasis. So can high levels of stress. Psoriasis isn't contagious. It can't be spread by touch or other close contact.


Question: How should you get support to avoid plaque psoriasis?

Answer: Get support: Plaque psoriasis can take an emotional toll. You may feel self-conscious about the way it looks or overwhelmed by what it takes to manage it. Many people with psoriasis become depressed. If you think you need some help, talk with your doctor about therapy or medication. It also helps to talk with people who understand what you're going through and can offer strategies for coping.


Question: How are biologic drugs used to treat plaque psoriasis?

Answer: Biologic drugs: Another kind of systemic drug also targets your immune system. Biologic drugs used to treat psoriasis include adalimumab ( Humira), brodalumab ( Siliq), etanercept( Enbrel),guselkumab ( Tremfya), infliximab ( Remicade), ixekizumab ( Taltz), risankisumab-rzaa ( SKYRIZI)),secukinumab ( Cosentyx), and ustekinumab ( Stelara). They're given either by a shot or through a vein in your arm. They affect a specific type of immune cell or keep certain proteins from causing inflammation. But these drugs can make it harder for you to fight an infection.


Question: What can trigger plaque psoriasis?

Answer: You can do a few things to deal with it better: Avoid triggers: Things like stress and smoking don't cause psoriasis. But they can make it worse. Try to figure out what triggers your flare-ups. You may be affected by: Alcohol Allergies Cold, dry weather Hormones Watch your diet : There's no proof that specific foods make a difference with psoriasis.


Question: How is plaque psoriasis diagnosed?

Answer: A dermatologist (skin doctor) can usually tell if you have plaque psoriasis just by talking with you about your medical history and looking at your skin. In some cases, he may need to do a biopsy to know for sure. He'll take a tiny sample of your skin and look at the cells under a microscope.


Question: How are eye drops used for LASIK eye surgery?

Answer: LASIK eye surgery: It can help if you're nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism. You'll get eye drops before to numb your eye and prevent pain. After surgery, eye drops can help you heal and prevent infection.


Question: How can eye drops help kids?

Answer: Eye drops can help kids with: Allergies. There are two types that treat symptoms: Artificial tears, which are safe and OK for children of all ages. Eye drops with antihistamines alone or antihistamines/mast cell stabilizers. They're OK for kids 3 and older.


Question: How are eye drops used in eye exams?

Answer: Eye exams : During a complete eye exam, the eye doctor may use: Drops to dilate your pupils -- make them bigger so she can see inside your eye Drops to numb your eye while she checks for glaucoma Glaucoma: This condition is often associated with increased fluid pressure inside your eyes.


Question: How can eye drops help with eye allergies?

Answer: Eye allergies: Drops can help with symptoms like itchy eyes, tearing, redness, watery discharge, stinging, and burning. You might try artificial tears, which don't have medication, or drops that contain: Antihistamines: They provide short-term relief.


Question: Are eye drops safe?

Answer: Some over-the-counter products that ease allergy symptoms or get rid of red eyes contain a type of decongestant called a vasoconstrictor. They can cause "rebound" swelling and redness, which may lead to chronic eye redness. The redness may even get worse with continued use. Ask your eye doctor which eye drops are safest for you.


Question: How do eye drops help kids with lazy eye (amblyopia)?

Answer: This means one eye is stronger than the other. It happens most often to kids 6 or younger. Some doctors use medicated drops to blur the strong eye, so the weak one has to work harder. It's easier for kids than the usual treatment -- a patch over the strong eye.


Question: How are eye drops used for dry eye?

Answer: Dry eye: As you get older, your body makes fewer, lower-quality tears. You may have more than you used to -- these are called reflex tears. But they don't stick around long enough to get your eye wet. Other signs of dry eyes are: Sandy or scratchy feeling Burning or stinging Pain Redness Stringy discharge Heavy eyelids Changes in vision Over-the-counter artificial tears can help, but you should use them only during the day. Other treatments can help more severe cases. Eye allergies: Drops can help with symptoms like itchy eyes, tearing, redness, watery discharge, stinging, and burning.


Question: How are eye drops used for corneal transplant surgery?

Answer: Corneal transplant surgery: You'll get drops after this operation, in which the doctor replaces your diseased or scarred cornea with a clear one (usually from an eye bank). The drops help with healing and prevent rejection of the donor tissue.


Question: How are eye drops used for glaucoma?

Answer: Eye exams : During a complete eye exam, the eye doctor may use: Drops to dilate your pupils -- make them bigger so she can see inside your eye Drops to numb your eye while she checks for glaucoma Glaucoma: This condition is often associated with increased fluid pressure inside your eyes. It can cause serious optic nerve damage and vision loss if you don't treat it. In the early stages, eye drops can reduce the amount of fluid your eye makes and help more liquid drain from it. They may also prevent people with high eye pressure from getting glaucoma. If you have glaucoma, don't use eye drops with vasoconstrictors -- decongestants that make blood vessels in your eye smaller. That will boost your eye pressure.


Question: What type of eye drops should I use to treat eye allergies?

Answer: You might try artificial tears, which don't have medication, or drops that contain: Antihistamines: They provide short-term relief. Mast cell stabilizers: They're similar to antihistamines but give longer relief. Some eye drops have both antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers for quick and long-lived relief. Decongestants: You can find them (alone or with antihistamines) in many over-the-counter drops, including ones that reduce redness. Don't use them longer than 2 to 3 days. If you do, they can make your redness and swelling worse. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs): They can help, but they might sting or burn a little when you put them in. Prescription corticosteroids: They can ease severe or chronic symptoms, but you'll use them for only a short time.


Question: Are eye drops addictive?

Answer: It is not possible to become overly dependent on artificial tears without preservatives. Because these eye drops contain harmless moisturizers and no medication, they're very safe no matter how often they are used. Some eye drops contain benzalkonium chloride preservative, which can cause hypersensitivity reactions. Discuss this with your doctor whenever you use any eye drops frequently and for a long time, such as for treatment of glaucoma.


Question: What are some tips for using eye drops?

Answer: All eye drops should be sterile when you use them. Check each bottle you buy to be sure the seal is intact. Don't let the applicator touch your eye's surface or anything else. This is key with preservative-free eye drops. If you use two or more different types, don't apply them together. Use one, wait 5 minutes, and use the other. Use them only as directed by your doctor or the label on the bottle. Throw them out when your doctor or the maker says to. Ask your doctor for dos and don'ts on how to use them.


Question: How are eye drops used for contact lens rewetting?

Answer: Contact lens rewetting : If your eyes feel dry when you wear your contacts, drops can help. Choose a product that says it's made for use with contacts. Other drops could discolor your lenses or temporarily change their fit.


Question: How do eye drops help kids with allergies?

Answer: Eye drops can help kids with: Allergies. There are two types that treat symptoms: Artificial tears, which are safe and OK for children of all ages. Eye drops with antihistamines alone or antihistamines/mast cell stabilizers. They're OK for kids 3 and older.


Question: How do you treat dry eyes?

Answer: Other signs of dry eyes are: Sandy or scratchy feeling Burning or stinging Pain Redness Stringy discharge Heavy eyelids Changes in vision Over-the-counter artificial tears can help, but you should use them only during the day. Other treatments can help more severe cases.


Question: What are eye drops?

Answer: They can keep your eyes wet and get the red out. Sometimes, they're medicine.


Question: Are there new types of eye drops?

Answer: Scientists have come up with a way to get tiny doses of medicine into your eye. These nanoparticles, as they're called, are so small that millions of them could fit onto an ant. You place the particles into your eye just once. They break down over time and release the medication as they dissolve.


Question: How are eye drops used for cataract surgery?

Answer: You might get them for: Cataract surgery: Before this operation, you'll use eye drops to prevent infection, make your pupil larger, and numb the area. After the doctor removes your cloudy lens and replaces it with a man-made model, drops can lower the chances of infection and help you heal.