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93ef4f005dc21bcffc699583a0c02bda | Why would a doctor order an echocardiogram (echo)? | Your doctor may order an echo to: Check the overall health of your heart See if you have heart disease, including heart failure Follow the progress of heart disease See how well your heart treatment is working The types of echoes include: Transthoracic: This is the standard echo. |
4b420e3d947b4617a7d29e3a3f451659 | How should I prepare for an echocardiogram (echo)? | On the day of most echoes, eat and drink as you normally would. Take all of your medications at the usual times as prescribed by your doctor. |
59d2eb3349dad868af3b912f49e1759e | What is an echocardiogram (echo)? | During this test, high-frequency sound waves, called ultrasound, provide pictures of your heart's valves and chambers. This allows your doctor to see the pumping action of the heart. Echo is often combined with tests called Doppler ultrasound and color Doppler to check the blood flow through the heart's valves. Your doctor may order an echo to: Check the overall health of your heart See if you have heart disease, including heart failure Follow the progress of heart disease See how well your heart treatment is working The types of echoes include: Transthoracic: This is the standard echo. |
45d9b2dd6f86b69da63bf3aadd6edb8b | What is a stress echocardiogram? | Stress: This is done while you exercise on a treadmill or stationary bicycle. This test can show the motion of the hearts walls and the heart's pumping action when it's stressed. It can show a lack of blood flow that isn't always seen on other heart tests. The echo is performed just before and after the exercise. |
1c03102b5e3d9f46c1e4ea5b9fe3e18f | What is a transthoracic echocardiogram? | Your doctor may order an echo to: Check the overall health of your heart See if you have heart disease, including heart failure Follow the progress of heart disease See how well your heart treatment is working The types of echoes include: Transthoracic: This is the standard echo. It's a painless test similar to an X-ray, but without radiation. Ultrasound waves are bounced off the heart to make images and sounds that can help your doctor judge your heart's health. |
885829ebb4fb287e0bceefc2cffcd973 | Why do you need an echocardiogram? | Your doctor may order an echo to: Check the overall health of your heart See if you have heart disease, including heart failure Follow the progress of heart disease See how well your heart treatment is working The types of echoes include: Transthoracic: This is the standard echo. |
c174bb981b800ed61efff7cb4db359e6 | What is a dobutamine or adenosine stress echocardiogram? | Dobutamine or adenosine stress: This is another form of stress echo. In this one, instead of exercising to stress the heart, you're giving a drug that stimulates the heart and makes it "think" it is exercising. It's used when you can't use a treadmill or stationary bike. It shows how well your heart tolerates activity. It can also show your odds of having coronary artery disease, diagnose significant blockages in the arteries; and tell the effectiveness of your cardiac treatment plan. |
e8ace3e463de4a1019f1d178a2117024 | How do I figure out what may be causing my child's cough? | Ask yourself some questions: Does your child have other symptoms? A cough that comes with a runny nose and sneezing may point to a cold. Those symptoms, body aches, and a fever often come with the flu. When did the cough start? Allergies are more likely in the spring and fall. What does it sound like? Allergies, viral infections, and the croup can bring on a barking cough. Whooping cough (pertussis) brings on a noise that sounds like "hoop!" Call your doctor if you hear that sound. A wheezing sound could mean something is blocking your child's airway. It could be brought on by pneumonia or asthma. Call the doctor. |
8581b9b81be1609f095b3b17b7a4e860 | How do fluids help with a child's cough? | Fluids: Give her plenty of drinks like water or juice to thin the mucus in her throat, making it easier for her to cough up phlegm. |
513570234857906230112fe96af972d1 | Can cough drops help you child's cough? | Cough drops: For kids over age 5, lozenges and hard candy can bring some relief to a sore throat caused by coughing. |
f146290a017e66e5f4ecdb075b36ab4b | When should I call the doctor about my child's cough? | But call the doctor if your child: Is not drinking or eating enough Makes a whooping sound when he breathes Runs a high fever Wheezes when he breathes Has a cough that lasts more than a month Doesn't look well to you Seek emergency help if your child: Coughs up blood Has blue lips, face, or tongue Has trouble breathing |
e2b2c7e658ba6bfffc9cbc1f3177200a | Can saline drops help my child's cough? | Saline drops: Saline or saltwater drops in the nose can help loosen congestion. |
4158cd61c908168abf213f8de0560a25 | Can steam and humidity help treat a child's cough? | Here are a few home remedies to try: Steam: You can create your own steam room. Close the door to your bathroom and run hot water in the shower for several minutes until the mirrors fog. The steam helps unclog your child's nose. Humidity: A cool-mist humidifier in your child's room adds moisture to the air to break up congestion and help your little one breathe easier. |
a9306b44b98faffcc3549668e6ff4257 | Can I give my child cough medicine? | Ask your doctor before giving your child any cough medicine. Don't give over-the-counter cough medicine to children younger than 4. They aren't meant for young kids. Even medicine labeled for children can have serious side effects, such as high blood pressure and seizures. |
fb1ad25551922e4e4bd3a124e0931b81 | When might you need a sports drink instead of water during a workout? | Water is and always will be the best drink for staying hydrated, but that doesn't mean that sports drinks don't have a role to play. But athletes -- particularly those engaged in vigorous activity for more than an hour at a time -- have shown improved performance levels after prolonged activity if they replenish their electrolytes while they rehydrate. |
308494598a3b6c6d764df28903a294e3 | What are the benefits of testosterone therapy? | What can you expect from testosterone treatment? It's impossible to predict, because every man is different. Many men report improvement in energy level, sex drive, and quality of erections. Testosterone also increases bone density, muscle mass, and insulin sensitivity in some men. Men also often report an improvement in mood from testosterone replacement. Whether these effects are barely noticeable, or a major boost, is highly individualized. |
7f474e30a64d73f40e26b79896a468bf | Can testosterone therapy worsen prostate cancer? | Prostate cancer: Testosterone can stimulate prostate cancer to grow. Most experts recommend screening for prostate cancer before starting testosterone replacement. Men with prostate cancer or elevated prostate specific antigen ( PSA) should probably avoid testosterone treatment. |
a4c6236d55f14780e089d5238b5707ad | Can testosterone therapy worsen blood clots? | Blood clots: The FDA requires that testosterone replacement products carry a warning about the risk of blood clots in veins. This could increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism , a potentially life threatening clot that occurs in the lungs. Products already carried a warning about the risk of blood clots due to polycythemia, an abnormal rise in the number of red blood cells that sometimes occurs with testosterone treatment. Now the warning is more general to include men who don't have polycythemia. |
e89cb9f5e07ce7ddaed930ce5a4a34f1 | Is low testosterone treated if there are no symptoms? | Symptoms of low testosterone include: Low sex drive (libido) Erectile dysfunction Fatigue and poor energy level Decreased muscle mass Body and facial hair loss Difficulty concentrating Depression Irritability Low sense of well-being If a man has symptoms of low testosterone and tests show he has an abnormally low testosterone level, a doctor may suggest treatment. For millions of men who have low testosterone levels but no symptoms, no treatment is currently recommended. It is has also not been approved for treating men with low levels because of aging. |
6caaba9be051505e36983cf3bd601959 | What are the risks of testosterone therapy? | Testosterone replacement therapy side effects most often include rash, itching, or irritation at the site where the testosterone is applied. However, there is also evidence of a possible increased risk of heart attack or stroke associated with testosterone use. Experts emphasize that the benefits and risks of long-term testosterone therapy are unknown, because large clinical trials haven't yet been done. |
be359484732a5b2fdc2106c5c34d94ea | How is intussusception treated? | Some cases of intussusception are temporary and don't need treatment. If an enema doesn't fix the intussusception, surgery is the next step. Your surgeon may do this procedure by making a cut in the abdomen. This is called an open procedure. He may opt to do it laparoscopically, with tiny cuts and a camera. Either way, the surgeon corrects the intussusception by lightly guiding the intestine back into place. If this doesn't work, she may remove the section and sew the intestine back together. She would do this with dissolvable stitches. |
3394f097077c59aaae4ad673ada7ea5c | What questions should you ask when choosing a weight loss program? | How limited are the food choices? Who sets your weight loss goal: you, or someone else? What percentage of people complete the program? What is the average weight loss among people who finish the program and at one year? What percentage of people have problems or side effects? What are those problems? Is there a maintenance program to help keep the weight off once you lose it? Maintaining weight loss is important, so there should be a plan for this. What is the total cost, including any foods or supplements that are required? |
85279a19ef93bf2bd8c7551be8d80ea5 | When should you test for ketones if you have diabetes? | Your doctor will probably tell you to test your ketones when: Your blood sugar is higher than 250 milligrams/deciliter (mg/dl) for two days in a row You're sick or you've been injured You want to exercise and your blood sugar level is over 250 mg/dl You're pregnant You should also take the test if you begin to experience some of the signs of DKA: Thirst Dry mouth Frequent urination Fatigue Dry or red skin Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain Trouble breathing Confusion A fruity smell to your breath If your blood sugar level is high or you're sick, check your ketone levels every 4 to 6 hours. |
fb738d22e89d3b36ecf5761f24a6fc20 | How does a urine ketone test work? | You can buy this kind of test at your local drugstore and do it at home. Also, you can have one done while you're at the doctor's office. To take it, pee into a clean container to get a sample and then do the following: Put the strip from your test into the sample (or you can hold the test strip under your urine stream). Shake the strip gently. The strip will change color; the directions will tell you how long that takes. Check the strip color against the chart that came with your test kit. This will show you the ketone level. |
cf3e517822b996817143c0aa01e58030 | Who needs ketone tests? | You might need one if you have type 1 diabetes. In this type, your immune system attacks and destroys cells in your pancreas that make insulin. Without it, your blood sugar rises. People with type 2 diabetes can also get high ketones, but it isn't as common as it is with type 1. Tests can show you when your level gets high so you can treat it before you get sick. |
1700c1772fc12abe91a7e0fd0ba3d639 | How does a blood ketone test work? | You can also take this test at home or at your doctor's office. To take the blood sample, the doctor will put a thin needle into a vein in your arm to pull out blood or prick a finger. You can also use a home meter and blood test strips. Some blood glucose meters test for ketones, too. To take this kind of test at home: Insert one of the blood ketone test strips into the meter until it stops Wash your hand with soap and water, and then dry it Stick your finger using the lancing device Place a drop of blood into the hole on the strip Check the result, which will display on the meter A urine test will show that you have: No ketones Trace amounts of ketones Moderate levels of ketones Large amounts of ketones Blood test results: Less than 0.6 = normal 0.6 - 1.0 = slightly high 1.0 - 3.0 = moderately high Higher than 3.0 = very high Write down your results on a chart or in a journal. |
cb0703ceeb284c73782c6a66aea15bfd | What signs of DKA should cause you to take a ketone test? | Your doctor will probably tell you to test your ketones when: Your blood sugar is higher than 250 milligrams/deciliter (mg/dl) for two days in a row You're sick or you've been injured You want to exercise and your blood sugar level is over 250 mg/dl You're pregnant You should also take the test if you begin to experience some of the signs of DKA: Thirst Dry mouth Frequent urination Fatigue Dry or red skin Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain Trouble breathing Confusion A fruity smell to your breath If your blood sugar level is high or you're sick, check your ketone levels every 4 to 6 hours. |
e00718398aaff08e7e34ce1cf86bcbdf | What does a ketone test use to test? | A ketone test uses a sample of either your pee or blood. Talk to your doctor about which is best for you. |
fac6fa5780eb184b14b9accb8d137fdf | What are ketones? | Everyone has them, whether you have diabetes or not. Ketones are chemicals made in your liver. You produce them when you don't have enough of the hormone insulin in your body to turn sugar (or âglucoseâ) into energy. You need another source, so your body uses fat instead. Your liver turns this fat into ketones, a type of acid, and sends them into your bloodstream. Your muscles and other tissues can then use them for fuel. For a person without diabetes, this process doesn't become an issue. But when you have diabetes, things can run out of control and you build up too many ketones in your blood. |
cc35663ccf086f44670b5e23f43e3ce0 | When should I test my ketones regularly? | Your doctor will probably tell you to test your ketones when: Your blood sugar is higher than 250 milligrams/deciliter (mg/dl) for two days in a row You're sick or you've been injured You want to exercise and your blood sugar level is over 250 mg/dl You're pregnant You should also take the test if you begin to experience some of the signs of DKA: Thirst Dry mouth Frequent urination Fatigue Dry or red skin Nausea, vomiting, stomach pain Trouble breathing Confusion A fruity smell to your breath If your blood sugar level is high or you're sick, check your ketone levels every 4 to 6 hours. During pregnancy, test them every morning before you eat breakfast. |
7eebd1188f9abaf72a7374970912bcf1 | Can genes play a role in chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)? | Since not everyone with a history of brain trauma gets CTE, some researchers think other things, like genetics, may play a role. But head impacts are the only proven cause. |
c264172f29f5d6e0910f2951ddf366a1 | What are symptoms of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)? | You may have: Memory loss Confusion Impulsive or erratic behavior Bad judgment Aggression Depression Paranoia Dementia These conditions usually begin years, sometimes decades, after your last brain injury or when you stopped playing. Some symptoms are similar to those seen in people with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, which makes it hard to diagnose. Let your doctor know about any head injuries you've had, no matter how long ago, and when your symptoms started. |
92791a244833d02159962cc39810992e | How can kids and athletes prevent concussions? | Let your doctor know about any head injuries you've had, no matter how long ago, and when your symptoms started. |
eae5ee5ffdb5038d57b8fd84b5b958b6 | How soon can chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) be diagnosed? | Researchers are developing tests to diagnose CTE earlier. There have already been breakthroughs in tau imaging, and scientists have learned a lot about the condition. Their work may lead to advances in the diagnosis and treatment of the disease. |
bef5bbb62d3b481b9bf14ce183865403 | What is intacs surgery? | The doctor makes a small incision in your cornea and places two crescent-shaped plastic rings at the outer edge. The rings flatten your cornea and change the way light rays focus on your retina. ICR was used to treat nearsightedness, but that has been replaced by laser-based procedures. Now it's used to fix keratoconus, an irregular-shaped cornea that causes your cornea to thin and results in vision loss. |
bd50612f66b02856b02533fb48d8f908 | What is AK surgery? | LRI is short for astigmatic keratotomy. It isn't laser eye surgery, but a surgical procedure used to correct astigmatism. When you have astigmatism, your eye is shaped like a football instead of being round. The doctor makes one or two incisions at the steepest part of your cornea. This helps it relax and makes it more rounded. This procedure can be done alone, or in combination with other laser eye surgeries like PRK, LASIK, or RK. |
793c65e3c217a5796296ec9b622231f6 | What is PRK surgery? | PRK, or photorefractive keratectomy, is used to correct mild to moderate nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Like LASIK, a surgeon uses a laser to reshape your cornea. But it only affects the cornea's surface, not the tissue underneath. Your doctor may also use computer imaging of the cornea. |
249dc2f1d6364a32a24147cfff0b0112 | What causes pinched (compressed) nerves? | A pinched nerve occurs when there is "compression" (pressure) on a nerve. The pressure may be the result of repetitive motions. |
16032de60a06da18d4d35d07c7fbc495 | When do you need surgery to treat pinched (compressed) nerves? | In more severe cases, it may be necessary to remove material that's pressing on a nerve, such as: Scar tissue Disc material Pieces of bone Treatment may include: NSAIDs. |
22dfc6becd226961d8f733ade12b361a | What are the symptoms of pinched (compressed) nerves? | With nerve compression, sometimes pain may be your only symptom. Or you may have other symptoms without pain. These are some of the more common symptoms of compressed nerves: Pain in the area of compression, such as the neck or low back Radiating pain, such as sciatica or radicular pain Numbness or tingling " Pins and needles" or a burning sensation Weakness, especially with certain activities Sometimes symptoms worsen when you try certain movements, such as turning your head or straining your neck. |
861d2f00d8b54e75282f765aa6256305 | What does deep vein thrombophlebitis affect? | Deep vein thrombophlebitis affects the larger blood vessels, usually deep in the legs. Large blood clots can form, which may break off and travel to the lungs. This is a serious condition called pulmonary embolism. |
f105281f4f855c93f53ee4113ff31f53 | What are risk factors for thrombophlebitis? | Some risk factors for thrombophlebitis include the following: Prolonged inactivity - Staying in bed or sitting for many hours, as in a car or on an airplane, creating stagnant or slow flow of blood from the legs in a dependent position ( This pooling of blood in the legs leads to thrombus formation.) Sedentary lifestyle - Not getting any exercise Obesity Smoking cigarettes Certain medical conditions, such as cancer or blood disorders, that increase the clotting potential of the blood Injury to your arms or legs Hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills Pregnancy Varicose veins Superficial phlebitis There is usually a slow onset of a tender red area along the superficial veins on the skin. |
280705162ca820ca8bd7c4a9280dacb4 | What does superficial phlebitis affect? | Superficial phlebitis affects veins on the skin surface. The condition is rarely serious and, with proper care, usually resolves rapidly. Sometimes people with superficial phlebitis also get deep vein thrombophlebitis, so a medical evaluation is necessary. |
507ee4c9b20e4cebfeaeb5e181934683 | What are symptoms of superficial phlebitis? | Sedentary lifestyle - Not getting any exercise Obesity Smoking cigarettes Certain medical conditions, such as cancer or blood disorders, that increase the clotting potential of the blood Injury to your arms or legs Hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills Pregnancy Varicose veins Superficial phlebitis There is usually a slow onset of a tender red area along the superficial veins on the skin. A long, thin red area may be seen as the inflammation follows a superficial vein. This area may feel hard, warm, and tender. The skin around the vein may be itchy and swollen. The area may begin to throb or burn. Symptoms may be worse when the leg is lowered, especially when first getting out of bed in the morning. A low-grade fever may occur. Sometimes phlebitis may occur where a peripheral intravenous line was started. The surrounding area may be sore and tender along the vein. If an infection is present, symptoms may include redness, fever, pain, swelling, or breakdown of the skin. |
19f7418ee7bc8030ac8b2b7f9b4ed818 | What are symptoms of deep vein phlebitis? | Deep vein phlebitis This can be similar in presentation to superficial phlebitis, but some people may have no symptoms. One may have pain and swelling throughout the entire limb. For example, the lower leg may swell for no apparent reason. Some people also get fever from a superimposed bacterial infection and skin discoloration or ulcers if the condition becomes chronic and was inadequately treated earlier. |
e15ec56a59e14bac470d2db7897ba8d7 | What is the outlook for superficial phlebitis? | Phlebitis in the superficial veins is rarely serious and usually responds to pain control, elevation, and warm compresses for 1-2 weeks. |
53bbb40ef331702782f0c1a50f16bf06 | What is the medical treatment for superficial phlebitis? | If your evaluation shows superficial phlebitis and you are otherwise healthy, you can likely go home. You will need to use compression stockings and probably anti-inflammatory medications to control your symptoms. Additional management involves elevation of the arm/leg and application of warm compresses. Only a few cases require antibiotics. |
0c89445511e7798234084a129bb7cc80 | What causes superficial phlebitis? | Superficial phlebitis can be a complication due to a medical or surgical procedure. Injury to a vein increases the risk of forming a blood clot. Sometimes clots occur without an injury. |
9a677b0434d994051de15047da35b848 | What is the medical treatment for deep vein phlebitis? | If you have a history of deep vein thrombophlebitis, or if the phlebitis might possibly spread to the deep veins, you will need to take a blood thinner (anticoagulant). The duration of anticoagulant treatment is usually between 3-6 months. If you have signs of infection, you will need to take an antibiotic. If the superficial phlebitis has progressed to involve the deep veins, then it is a serious condition that may even require hospital admission for treatment and further evaluation. |
eff64995b20bb690d3890617bfc8841c | Should I avoid certain drugs while taking beta-blockers? | A beta-blocker is often prescribed with other medications such as a diuretic, ACE inhibitor, angiotensin receptor neprilysin inhibitor ( ARNI), or angiotensin receptor blocker ( ARB). If you have side effects after taking your medications together, call your doctor or nurse. You may need to change the times you take each drug. It's important that your doctor be aware of all the medications you are taking, as some may interact with beta-blockers. Talk to your doctor before taking any new drug, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and supplements. |
723944236a612bda5682e249fd7ba61a | What are the types of beta-blockers? | There are several types of beta-blockers, but only three are approved by the FDA to treat heart failure: Bisoprolol ( Zebeta) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Toprol) They may be taken with meals, at bedtime, or in the morning. |
0050a26abf720b7b0000d9b0eb2dd383 | What do beta-blockers do for people with heart failure? | Drugs called beta-blockers perform four main tasks essential for people with heart failure: Improve your heart's ability to relax Decrease the production of harmful substances your body makes in response to heart failure Slow your heart rate Improve the heart's pumping ability over time If you have heart failure, you need beta-blockers -- even if you do not have symptoms. |
22b194e1270ef3c6b6eb06afbaf3b492 | How should you take beta blockers to treat heart failure? | There are several types of beta-blockers, but only three are approved by the FDA to treat heart failure: Bisoprolol ( Zebeta) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Toprol) They may be taken with meals, at bedtime, or in the morning. Food delays how your body absorbs beta-blockers, but they also may reduce side effects. Follow the directions on the label. Beta-blockers shouldn't be used if you have very low blood pressure (hypotension) or a slow pulse (bradycardia) that may cause you to feel dizzy or lightheaded. If you have severe lung congestion, your doctor will treat your congestion before prescribing a beta-blocker. While you are taking this beta-blocker, your doctor may tell you to take and record your pulse daily. He'll tell you how rapid your pulse should be. If your pulse is slower than it should be or your blood pressure is less than 100, call your doctor about taking your beta-blocker that day. Never stop taking your medicine without speaking to your doctor first, even if you feel that it's not working. When you start taking beta-blockers, your heart failure symptoms may become a bit worse while your heart adjusts to the medication. This is normal, but let your doctor or nurse know if you become extremely tired, gain more than 5 pounds, have trouble breathing, or have other signs of congestion or swelling. Once your heart adjusts, you will feel better. |
88026e415d40313b69bc2634dec95fef | What beta-blockers do doctors use to treat heart failure? | There are several types of beta-blockers, but only three are approved by the FDA to treat heart failure: Bisoprolol ( Zebeta) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Toprol) They may be taken with meals, at bedtime, or in the morning. |
a0652fa6b6d6d04ca7e247554d36ffce | How do beta-blockers help with heart failure? | Drugs called beta-blockers perform four main tasks essential for people with heart failure: Improve your heart's ability to relax Decrease the production of harmful substances your body makes in response to heart failure Slow your heart rate Improve the heart's pumping ability over time If you have heart failure, you need beta-blockers -- even if you do not have symptoms. Beta-blockers are prescribed for patients with systolic heart failure and improve survival, even in people with severe symptoms. |
8b8d4f28caf946cfdc5aedb90516e67c | What are compression fractures? | Soft, weakened bones are at the heart of the problem. Compression fractures are usually caused by the bone-thinning condition osteoporosis, especially if you are a woman over age 50 who has been through menopause. |
1a5c79254252ed2a8b68964db971c5c6 | How do you know if you have spinal compression fractures because of osteoporosis? | You can have osteoporosis and not even know it. In fact, about two-thirds of spinal compression fractures are never diagnosed because many people think the back pain is just a part of aging and arthritis. But if osteoporosis isn't treated, it can lead to more fractures. It's important to see your doctor if you're in pain. Osteoporosis treatment won't guarantee that you'll never get another compression fracture, but it will significantly lower your odds. |
75fb2a35b152f5856b0ed425fc0a82e7 | What increases your risk of getting spinal compression fractures? | Some people have a higher chance of getting the disease because of: Race: White and Asian women have the greatest risk. Age: The chances are higher for women over 50 and go up with age. Weight: Thin women are at higher risk. Early menopause: Women who went through it before age 50 have higher chances of getting osteoporosis. Smokers: People who smoke lose bone thickness faster than nonsmokers. |
99a588e31d7d080f12b5dce58f3f3b67 | How do compression fractures happen? | Soft, weakened bones are at the heart of the problem. Compression fractures are usually caused by the bone-thinning condition osteoporosis, especially if you are a woman over age 50 who has been through menopause. When bones are brittle, your vertebrae aren't strong enough to support your spine in everyday activities. When you bend to lift an object, miss a step, or slip on a carpet, you can put your spinal bones at risk of fracture. Even coughing or sneezing can cause compression fractures if you have severe osteoporosis. |
b6fd2d0bf5cad629203360bdeb72f68f | How do compression fractures affect the spine? | The strength and shape of the spine can change. You lose height because your spine is shorter. Most compression fractures happen in the front of the vertebra. When you get enough of them, the front part of the bone can collapse. The back of the vertebra is made of harder bone, so it stays intact. That creates a wedge-shaped vertebra, which can lead to the stooped posture you might know as a dowager's hump. Doctors call it kyphosis. |
9c88e2f9ba86a0c2892065883fb40464 | What are the effects of spinal compression fractures? | The strength and shape of the spine can change. You lose height because your spine is shorter. Most compression fractures happen in the front of the vertebra. |
e501123482987e3ab11a3fbbfc5dc331 | What factors can increase an individuals chance of getting a spinal compression fracture? | But most spinal compression fractures happen because of osteoporosis. Some people have a higher chance of getting the disease because of: Race: White and Asian women have the greatest risk. Age: The chances are higher for women over 50 and go up with age. Weight: Thin women are at higher risk. Early menopause: Women who went through it before age 50 have higher chances of getting osteoporosis. Smokers: People who smoke lose bone thickness faster than nonsmokers. |
2f39b1ce93282791c331a3eb2ee539ea | What happens if osteoporosis isn't treated? | But if osteoporosis isn't treated, it can lead to more fractures. It's important to see your doctor if you're in pain. Osteoporosis treatment won't guarantee that you'll never get another compression fracture, but it will significantly lower your odds. |
eeba6d2156252daa364679b0d27cb694 | Are people with cancer at risk for spinal compression fractures? | Two groups of people are at highest risk for spinal compression fractures: People with osteoporosis People with cancer that has spread to their bones If you have been diagnosed with certain kinds of cancer -- including multiple myeloma and lymphoma -- your doctor may monitor you for compression fractures. On the other hand, sometimes a spinal fracture may be the first sign that a person has cancer. |
8b05ccb9a01e17ec0704b25d54b87e47 | How does traumatic brain injury (TBI) cause brain swelling? | The following list explains different ways the brain can swell: Traumatic brain injury ( TBI): A TBI is also called a head injury, brain injury, or acquired brain injury. In TBI, a sudden event damages the brain. Both the physical contact itself and the quick acceleration and deceleration of the head can cause the injury. The most common causes of TBI include falls, vehicle crashes, being hit with or crashing into an object, and assaults. The initial injury can cause brain tissue to swell. In addition, broken pieces of bone can rupture blood vessels in any part of the head. The body's response to the injury may also increase swelling. Too much swelling may prevent fluids from leaving the brain. |
bcf61ec3588e8183af10cd106cd0b464 | What are the symptoms of brain swelling? | Symptoms of brain swelling vary, depending on the severity and the cause. Usually they begin suddenly. You may notice any of these symptoms: Headache Neck pain or stiffness Nausea or vomiting Dizziness Irregular breathing Vision loss or changes Memory loss Inability to walk Difficulty speaking Stupor Seizures Loss of consciousness The steps used by your doctor to diagnose brain swelling depend on the symptoms and the suspected cause. |
38d6a752c6f07a35d920235c055102af | How can tumors cause brain swelling? | Tumors: Growths in the brain can cause swelling in several ways. As a tumor develops, it can press against other areas of the brain. Tumors in some parts of the brain may block cerebrospinal fluid from flowing out of the brain. New blood vessels growing in and near the tumor can also lead to swelling. |
f070d0ca1bf9b5ef417ab56a391c7bb7 | What are other names for brain swelling? | Brain swelling goes by many names: Brain edema Elevated intracranial pressure Cerebral edema Swelling can occur in specific locations or throughout the brain. |
0a83559a89f1781a1c25d17752e3cf05 | How does a ventriculostomy treat brain swelling? | Ventriculostomy: In this procedure, a surgeon cuts a small hole in the skull and inserts a plastic drain tube. Cerebrospinal fluid is drained from inside the brain, helping to relieve the pressure. |
5b94e68afc1b94cf0f28943101d38833 | How does medication treat brain swelling? | Medication: In some cases of brain edema, your doctor may start a drug to help relieve the swelling. Medication may also be given for other reasons, such as to slow your body's response to the swelling or to dissolve any clots. The drugs your doctor gives you depend on the cause and symptoms of brain swelling. |
b9a798dc726cd176094ad41d1ad88449 | How does surgery treat brain swelling? | Surgery: Surgery may have one or more of these goals: Removing part of the skull to relieve intracranial pressure; this procedure is called decompressive craniectomy. Removing or repairing the source of the swelling, such as repairing a damaged artery or vein or removing a growth It's common to have lingering effects from brain swelling. |
66049a4b4e30bed403a56908ae99f84c | How can I protect my head to prevent brain swelling? | To protect the brain, keep these tips in mind as you go about your daily activities: Use a helmet when biking, skating, playing contact sports, or performing other activities in which you might fall and hit your head. Wear seat belts properly when driving or riding in vehicles. Make sure you are doing all you can to control high blood pressure and heart disease. Avoid smoking. When traveling to high elevations, take your time -- allow your body to adjust to the altitude. |
72526ddbbae3db6659d179cc98214b6a | Can high altitudes cause brain swelling? | High altitudes: Although researchers don't know the exact causes, brain swelling is more likely to occur at altitudes above 4,900 feet. This type of brain edema is usually associated with severe acute mountain sickness ( AMS) or high-altitude cerebral edema ( HACE). |
dd03ddaaf40fc463fc9d8fe412952d1a | What are other signs of death? | They could have: Different sleep-wake patterns Little appetite and thirst Fewer and smaller bowel movements and less pee More pain Changes in blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate Body temperature ups and downs that may leave their skin cool, warm, moist, or pale Congested breathing from the buildup in the back of their throat Confusion or seem to be in a daze Breathing trouble can be distressing for family members, but often it isn't painful and can be managed. Pain can be treated, too. But your loved one may have a hard time taking medicine by mouth. Hallucinations and visions, especially of long-gone loved ones, can be comforting. If seeing and talking to someone who isn't there makes the person who's dying happier, you don't need to try to convince them that they aren't real. It may upset them and make them argue and fight with you. |
e7a4173d55149fe874791edc62fd2421 | What are the signs of death within days or hours? | When death is within days or hours, your loved one may: Not want food or drink Stop peeing and having bowel movements Grimace, groan, or scowl from pain You may notice their: Eyes tear or glaze over Pulse and heartbeat are irregular or hard to feel or hear Body temperature drops Skin on their knees, feet, and hands turns a mottled bluish-purple (often in the last 24 hours) Breathing is interrupted by gasping and slows until it stops entirely If they're not already unconscious, your loved one may drift in and out. But they probably can still hear and feel. |
9040565059025387892c196324e70001 | Where can you get help and support when your loved one is dying? | Caregivers, families, and friends of someone who is dying can turn to: Family Caregiver Alliance Hospice Foundation of America National Caregivers Library National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization |
4173fe2c852da091e0d9f084210c807a | When should you switch to hospice care for your loved one? | When your loved one's health care team recognizes that he or she is likely within 6 months of dying, they may recommend switching to hospice, a more specialized care for people with a terminal illness who are expected to die. Your loved one will still get treatment for pain relief and comfort, but hospice also offers emotional and spiritual support for them as well as you and close family. |
d3083a95dafb4d387a2398e1594a8385 | What are the signs one to two weeks before death? | 1 to 3 months before death, your loved one is likely to: Sleep or doze more Eat and drink less Withdraw from people and stop doing things they used to enjoy Talk less (but if they're a child, more) 1 to 2 weeks before death, the person may feel tired and drained all the time, so much that they don't leave their bed. They could have: Different sleep-wake patterns Little appetite and thirst Fewer and smaller bowel movements and less pee More pain Changes in blood pressure, breathing, and heart rate Body temperature ups and downs that may leave their skin cool, warm, moist, or pale Congested breathing from the buildup in the back of their throat Confusion or seem to be in a daze Breathing trouble can be distressing for family members, but often it isn't painful and can be managed. |
fda1cac97582905fb2a96299da299c14 | What are the signs one to three months before death? | 1 to 3 months before death, your loved one is likely to: Sleep or doze more Eat and drink less Withdraw from people and stop doing things they used to enjoy Talk less (but if they're a child, more) 1 to 2 weeks before death, the person may feel tired and drained all the time, so much that they don't leave their bed. |
3e2ff7682f620d8c8291ff8759b63b78 | Can a workout cause bruises? | An extra-hard workout can sometimes cause bruises. That's because you're pushing your muscles with so much effort that it leads to tiny tears in your blood vessels. |
af6892d3cce2966044cd0aecd54684ea | What should I do If a bruise doesn't go away? | If you're having nosebleeds for no reason, if your gums bleed a lot after you brush or floss, or if small cuts or scrapes seem to bleed heavily, call your doctor. |
9c98d138de93fc1847b677171f21314b | Do you bruise more easily as you get older? | As you age, your skin gets thinner and loses the protective layer of fat that acts as a cushion when you bump into something. Also, your blood vessels get more fragile. Both of these things mean you get more bruises. |
6a5a0c67acdf78deea4ab6b68e5e97bf | Can a bruise be a sign of cancer? | It's not likely, but it's possible that your bruises are a sign of cancer, such as leukemia. If you also feel tired, achy, and weak all the time, or lose weight without trying to, give your doctor a call. |
ae01342cc85a32261db63e093ca9fea8 | What is gastric "sleeve" surgery? | Gastric â Sleeveâ Surgery In this operation, your surgeon will take out most of your stomach and shape your remaining stomach into a tube, or âsleeveâ shape. It will remain attached to your small intestine. After the surgery, your stomach will be able to hold only about 2-3 ounces of food. You'll feel full sooner because your stomach is smaller. You also won't be as hungry because most of the tissue that makes the "hunger hormone," called ghrelin, will be gone. This procedure is permanent. You cannot get it reversed. |
22f19a7b4d228e598952d80fbf79bc47 | Can chronic pain be treated with nonprescription drugs? | Milder forms of pain may be relieved by over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Both acetaminophen and NSAIDs relieve pain caused by muscle aches and stiffness, and additionally NSAIDs reduce inflammation (swelling and irritation). Topical pain relievers are also available, such as creams, lotions, or sprays that are applied to the skin in order to relieve pain and inflammation from sore muscles and arthritis. |
51a13be9f3d242c94838fa3b87ee0e9b | What is bioelectric therapy? | Bioelectric therapy relieves pain by blocking pain messages to the brain. Bioelectric therapy also prompts the body to produce chemicals called endorphins that decrease or eliminate painful sensations by blocking the message of pain from being delivered to the brain. |
f7288d8b04c7c3165765f7ea30e6e9b8 | How is patient-controlled analgesia used to manage chronic pain? | Patient-controlled analgesia ( PCA) is another method of pain control. By pushing a button on a computerized pump, the patient is able to self-administer a premeasured dose of pain medicine. The pump is connected to a small tube that allows medicine to be injected intravenously (into a vein), subcutaneously (just under the skin), or into the spinal area. This is often used in the hospital to treat pain. |
01f4343f934b5ebb39d0cdea5457ebf0 | How can acupuncture help chronic pain? | Acupuncture is thought to decrease pain by increasing the release of endorphins, chemicals that block pain. Many acu-points are near nerves. When stimulated, these nerves cause a dull ache or feeling of fullness in the muscle. The stimulated muscle sends a message to the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord), causing the release of endorphins that block the message of pain from being delivered to the brain. |
0930dc9aeecfa0bbac9fe1ba0d5ff753 | Can you test for an infection of brain-eating amoeba? | But researchers are working to develop one. Until such tests come along, it can take weeks to identify the amoeba. |
8427b1102b4d158072e05b6faf2a7c90 | Who gets infected with brain-eating amoebas? | Over 60% of U. S. cases are in children age 13 or younger. About 80% of cases are in males. It's not at all clear whether children or males are more susceptible to the amoeba, or whether young males are more likely to engage in activities that expose them to the amoeba. |
50c06c12be02b22075d8b040acb78ebd | How do brain-eating amoebas eat brains? | One study suggests that N. fowleri amoebas produce two proteases -- enzymes that dissolve protein. |
28b908eb9a7e625a5c5acc74d946eaec | Can you treat a brain-eating amoeba infection? | A number of drugs kill N. fowleri amoebas in the test tube. But even when treated with these drugs, very few patients survive. |
c27e5dc870b94b2fc86e69692b62a6bc | Can you protect yourself against brain-eating amoebas? | It makes sense to avoid swimming underwater, diving, water skiing, and jumping in warm, still waters during the late summer. It also makes sense to wear a nose clip when swimming, boating, or playing in or on warm waters. It's also a good idea to avoid stirring up mud while taking part in such activities. And if you are cleansing your nostrils, be sure to fill your neti pot or squeeze bottle with distilled or sterile water -- not tap water. You can also use water that has been boiled for one minute (three minutes at high elevations) and then cooled. And you can filter the water using filters with pores no larger than 1 micron (1 micrometer). |
ed8331a1d20fd276490c9813f24f2969 | How do people get infected with a brain-eating amoeba? | The nose is the pathway of the amoeba, so infection occurs most often from diving, water skiing, or performing water sports in which water is forced into the nose. But infections have occurred in people who dunked their heads in hot springs or who cleaned their nostrils with neti pots filled with untreated tap water. A person infected with N. fowleri cannot spread the infection to another person. |
fd5a13c778b3119d0337a2a78b5fbf44 | Where can you find brain-eating amoebas? | It can survive in water as hot as 113 degrees Fahrenheit. These amoebas can be found in warm places around the globe. N. fowleri is found in: Warm lakes, ponds, and rock pits Mud puddles Warm, slow-flowing rivers, especially those with low water levels Untreated swimming pools and spas Untreated well water or untreated municipal water Hot springs and other geothermal water sources Thermally polluted water, such as runoff from power plants Aquariums Soil, including indoor dust Naegleria can't live in salt water. It can't survive in properly treated swimming pools or in properly treated municipal water. Most cases of N. fowleri disease occur in Southern or Southwestern states. Over half of all infections have been in Florida and Texas. |
ad736f361f85ff40b6dab88d8bf763ae | What are the symptoms of a brain-eating amoeba infection? | At first, PAM may seem like viral meningitis. Symptoms include: headache fever stiff neck loss of appetite vomiting altered mental state seizures coma There may also be hallucinations, drooping eyelid, blurred vision, and loss of the sense of taste. |
ed7ed36b5961d44c6dc27117457f25f6 | What are other vaccines to prevent meningitis? | Vaccines can prevent many of the diseases that could lead to meningitis. Most of these shots are routinely given to young children. Some of these include: Haemophilus influenzae type B ( Hib) vaccine. It prevents infections that cause pneumonia, meningitis, and other problems. Kids get it when they're between 2 months and 15 months old. It's also given to children over age 5 or adults with certain medical conditions. While Hib used to be the most likely cause of bacterial meningitis in children under age 5, the vaccine has made it very rare. Pneumococcal vaccines. They protect against bacterial meningitis. There are two types. Doctors give the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine to children under age 2. The pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine is recommended for all adults over 65. Some younger adults and children with a missing spleen, weakened immune systems, and certain long-term diseases may also need it. MMR (measles-mumps-rubella) vaccine. Children need it to protect them from meningitis that can develop from measles and mumps. Varicella (chickenpox) vaccine and shingles vaccine. They target the varicella virus, which can potentially lead to viral meningitis. |
4b86be7cc3c3be6291d81c3334e25f45 | When should I call my doctor about a reaction to the meningitis vaccine? | Avoid the vaccine if you: Had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose Have a severe allergy to any vaccine ingredient You may get mild pain or redness at the spot where you get the shot. Call your doctor right away if you have a strong reaction to the vaccine, such as a high fever, weakness, or signs of an allergic reaction, such as trouble breathing, a fast heartbeat, or dizziness. |
204fe5006856f2bcd54e833df4a78feb | What are the three types of meningitis vaccines? | Meningococcal meningitis is a serious disease that causes inflammation in the brain and spinal cord. You can prevent it by getting the meningococcal vaccine. There are three types: Meningococcal conjugate vaccine ( MCV4): Menactra ( Men ACWY- DT) and Menveo ( Men ACWY- CRM) Meningococcal polysaccharide vaccine ( MPSV4): Menomune Serogroup B Meningococcal B: Trumenba ( Men B- FHbp) and Bexsero ( Men B-4 C) MCV4 and MPSV4 can prevent 70% of the types of meningococcal disease. Both work in nine out of 10 people. Serogroup B vaccine is also available. Doctors recommend that kids get a shot of MCV4 at age 11 or 12. They need a booster shot at 16. |
97e9e911f882b9aad955f7a0689ef273 | How can nickel cause skin allergies? | It's used to make everything from jewelry to belts to eyeglass frames to paper clips -- and it's the leading cause of skin allergies. You're most likely to be at risk for a reaction if you're a hair stylist, retail clerk, caterer, house cleaner, or you work with metal. If you're allergic to nickel in something you eat, you'll get bumps on the sides of your fingers, called dyshidrotic hand eczema or pompholyx. There's no treatment for a nickel allergy, so you'll have to stop wearing or using anything with it. You could try painting a coat of nail polish on jewelry, which puts a barrier between the metal and your skin. |
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