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Can reading labels help you avoid skin irritation caused by household cleaning products?
Know exactly which chemicals are in the product you're using. Try to avoid products that contain ingredients you've had a reaction to in the past. Follow directions on the label so you know you're using the cleaning product safely.
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Why shouldn't you mix household cleaning products?
Don't mix. Don't turn into a mad scientist. Mixing cleaning products is a dangerous experiment. Combining cleaning products is never a good idea. Cleaning products can produce dangerous fumes when combined with certain substances.
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What healthy habits can prevent the flu?
Get plenty of sleep. Eat a well-balanced diet. Take time to relax each day to manage your stress. And exercise at least half an hour 5 days a week.
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Do disinfectant sanitizers work for preventing the flu?
Alcohol-based hand disinfectants work great, too. Make sure your kids' teachers have plenty during flu season. Keep some in your desk and car, too.
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For how long do I need to wash my hands if I am sick?
This is the best way to prevent the spread of the flu. If you have young children, teach them to wash often with warm soapy water. Tell them to rub their hands and fingers while singing Happy Birthday to You -- twice. Once isn't enough time to get all the germs off.
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How can I avoid passing the flu to people close to me?
Keep your distance. It's easy to pass on germs when you live in close quarters, especially during the winter when we're all indoors. Avoid close contactwith colleagues, friends, or family members if you have the flu or a cold. Tell them you're sick and you don't want them to catch what you have.
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How long should I stay away from school or work if I have the flu?
If you feel sick, don't go to work. Keep ailing kids home from school, too. An adult can infect other people one day before symptoms show up and up to 5 days after they start. You could spread flu to others before you know you're sick. If you go back to work or school within 5 days after your symptoms started, chances you're still contagious.
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How do viruses spread from person to person?
Mainly from person to person in droplets that fly out when you cough or sneeze. These tiny drops from a sick person move through the air and land on the mouths or noses of others nearby. Germs are also passed along when you touch mucus droplets from someone else on a surface like a desk and then touch your own eyes, mouth, or nose before you get a chance to wash your hands. Viruses like the flu can live up to 24 hours or longer on plastic and metal surfaces like cafeteria tables, doorknobs, and cups.
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How does scraping the tumor treat basal cell carcinoma?
Scraping the tumor away and using electricity to kill cancer cells. You may hear your doctor call this "curettage and desiccation." First your doctor numbs your skin. Then he uses a curette, a tool that has spoon-like shape to scrape off the tumor. Your doctor controls your bleeding and kills any other cancer cells with an electric needle.
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How do you recognize tumors related to skin cancer?
The tumors start off as small shiny bumps, usually on your nose or other parts of your face. But you can get them on any part of your body, including your trunk, legs, and arms. If you've got fair skin, you're more likely to get this skin cancer.
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How does cutting out the tumor treat basal cell carcinoma?
Your doctor may call this an "excision." First he'll numb the tumor and the skin around it. Then he'll scrape the tumor with a spoon-shaped device. Next he'll cut out the tumor and a small surrounding area of normal-appearing skin and send it to a lab. If the lab results show there are cancer cells in the area around your tumor, your doctor may need to remove more of your skin.
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How does Mohs surgery treat basal cell carcinoma?
This is a technique that's named after the doctor who invented it. Your surgeon removes your tumor layer by layer. He takes out some tissue, then looks at it under a microscope to see if it has cancer cells, before moving on to the next layer.
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When is Mohs surgery recommended to treat basal cell carcinoma?
Your doctor may recommend this surgery if your tumor is: Large In a sensitive area of your body Has been there for a long time Came back after you had other treatments Creams and pills.
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What will your doctor do to diagnose basal cell carcinoma?
Your doctor will take a sample, or biopsy, of the growth. He will numb the area and remove some of the skin. Then he sends it to a lab, where it will be tested for cancer cells.
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How does radiation therapy treat basal cell carcinoma?
This treatment uses X-rays to destroy your cancer cells. It's done over several weeks.
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How does basal cell carcinoma grow?
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What do my endometrial biopsy results mean?
You should get the lab results back in about a week. The possible causes of your abnormal bleeding could be: Polyps or fibroids (small or large growths in your uterus) An infection of your uterus, like endometritis Endometrial cancer A thyroid problem Your doctor will go over the results with you. Based on what they reveal, she'll also explain if any treatment is needed.
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Who gets tested for endometrial biopsy?
Your doctor may do this type of biopsy if your Pap test shows that you have “precancerous” cells in your uterus. She could also suggest one if you have any of these symptoms: Heavy or long periods Periods that don't come at the same time every month No periods Bleeding after menopause Bleeding after taking a breast cancer drug called tamoxifen A thickened uterine lining An endometrial biopsy can't fix or stop any of these symptoms. But it can help your doctor learn what may be wrong.
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What happens after an endometrial biopsy?
It's common to have some light spotting after this type of biopsy. You may also have some cramping. If so, ask your doctor which over-the-counter pain relievers are safe for you to take. Some, like aspirin, could make you bleed more. You can return to your normal routine as soon as you feel able, but skip sex until all your bleeding has stopped.
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What results can you expect from pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD?
You're usually able to do more things without becoming short of breath. In a large analysis of some programs, nearly all people in pulmonary rehab had seen their symptoms get better. Almost all of them reported feeling: Less short of breath More energetic More in control of their COPD Being in rehab may help prevent you from going to the hospital because of COPD flare-ups, or “exacerbations.” Even people with advanced lung disease can get something out of rehab. For people who keep up their exercise level, the benefits from pulmonary rehab can last for years.
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How does pulmonary rehabilitation help you manage your COPD?
Many pulmonary rehab programs offer group or one-on-one education sessions to help you learn to better manage your COPD. Sessions might focus on things such as: Understanding your medication treatment plan.
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How does pulmonary rehabilitation help with COPD?
Basically, it's a formal program that will build your fitness and help you breathe as well as you possibly can. Pulmonary rehab will help you with: Exercise Breathing techniques Nutrition Relaxation Emotional and group support Learning more about your medications Strategies for living better with COPD To join a program, you'll probably need a referral from your doctor and a test that shows you've had COPD in the past year.
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What is mangetic field therapy?
This uses magnetic or electrical fields to treat a number of musculoskeletal problems. Studies show that it may work for osteoarthritis and other pain conditions. Some studies have even shown that it may help fractures heal faster. Magnetic field therapy may not be safe if you're pregnant, have an implanted cardiac device, use an insulin pump, or take a drug given by patch.
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What is acupuncture?
This is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses needles to stimulate specific points around the body. The person who performs this therapy (an acupuncturist) sticks thin, sterile needles into your skin. The goal is to help your body's natural healing process kick in. Studies show that acupuncture can be effective in treating a number of conditions, like neck and back pain, nausea, anxiety, depression, insomnia, infertility, and more.
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How does guttate psoriasis start?
This type often starts in children or young adults. It happens in less than 2% of cases.
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What are the symptoms of generalized pustular psoriasis?
Sometimes it covers most of your body, which is called "generalized" pustular psoriasis.
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How common is nail psoriasis?
Up to half of those with psoriasis have nail changes. Nail psoriasis is even more common in people who have psoriatic arthritis, which affects your joints.
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What is the outlook for guttate psoriasis?
They often appear on your: Trunk Upper arms Thighs Scalp This type of psoriasis may go away within a few weeks, even without treatment. Some cases, though, are more stubborn and require treatment.
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What does plaque psoriasis cause?
Symptoms: Plaque psoriasis causes raised, inflamed, red skin covered with silvery, white scales. These patches may itch and burn. It can appear anywhere on your body, but it often pops up in these areas: Elbows Knees Scalp Lower back Treatments: Topical treatments: These go on your skin and are usually the first thing doctors try.
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What triggers guttate psoriasis?
Triggers include: Suddenly stopping your systemic psoriasis treatment An allergic drug reaction Severe sunburn Infection Medications such as lithium, antimalarial drugs, cortisone, or strong coal tar products Erythrodermic psoriasis may also happen if your psoriasis is hard to control.
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Should I attempt to stop psoriasis?
Knowing which kind of psoriasis you have helps you and your doctor make a treatment plan. Most people have only one type at a time. Sometimes, after your symptoms go away, a new form of psoriasis will crop up in response to a trigger.
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Where does guttate psoriasis often appear?
Guttate psoriasis causes small, pink-red spots on your skin. They often appear on your: Trunk Upper arms Thighs Scalp This type of psoriasis may go away within a few weeks, even without treatment.
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What can pustural psoriasis cause?
Symptoms include: Fever Chills Nausea Fast heart rate Muscle weakness Triggers include: Topical medicine (ointments you put on your skin) or systemic medicine (drugs that treat your whole body), especially steroids Suddenly stopping systemic drugs or strong topical steroids that you used over a large area of your body Getting too much ultraviolet ( UV) light without using sunscreen Pregnancy Infection Stress Exposure to certain chemicals This type is the least common, but it's very serious.
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What are common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?
Symptoms: Painful, stiff joints that are worse in the morning and after rest Sausage-like swelling of the fingers and toes Warm joints that may be discolored
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What should you do if you have symptoms of erythrodermic psoriasis?
Other symptoms include: Severe itching, burning, or peeling A faster heart rate Changes in body temperature If you have these symptoms, see your doctor right away. You may need to get treated in a hospital. This type of psoriasis can cause severe illness from protein and fluid loss. You may also get an infection, pneumonia, or congestive heart failure.
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What triggers pustular psoriasis?
Symptoms include: Fever Chills Nausea Fast heart rate Muscle weakness Triggers include: Topical medicine (ointments you put on your skin) or systemic medicine (drugs that treat your whole body), especially steroids Suddenly stopping systemic drugs or strong topical steroids that you used over a large area of your body Getting too much ultraviolet ( UV) light without using sunscreen Pregnancy Infection Stress Exposure to certain chemicals This type is the least common, but it's very serious.
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What are the symptoms of guttate psoriasis?
Guttate psoriasis causes small, pink-red spots on your skin. They often appear on your: Trunk Upper arms Thighs Scalp This type of psoriasis may go away within a few weeks, even without treatment.
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Where does inverse psoriasis usually appear?
This type usually found in these locations: Armpits Groin Under the breasts Skin folds around the genitals and buttocks Symptoms include: Patches of skin that are bright red, smooth, and shiny, but don't have scales Getting worse with sweating and rubbing Common triggers are: Friction Sweating Fungal infections This kind of psoriasis is uncommon and mostly appears in adults.
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What is nail psoriasis?
Up to half of those with psoriasis have nail changes. Nail psoriasis is even more common in people who have psoriatic arthritis, which affects your joints.
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What triggers erythrodermic psoriasis?
Triggers include: Suddenly stopping your systemic psoriasis treatment An allergic drug reaction Severe sunburn Infection Medications such as lithium, antimalarial drugs, cortisone, or strong coal tar products Erythrodermic psoriasis may also happen if your psoriasis is hard to control.
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How can inverse psoriasis worsen?
This type usually found in these locations: Armpits Groin Under the breasts Skin folds around the genitals and buttocks Symptoms include: Patches of skin that are bright red, smooth, and shiny, but don't have scales Getting worse with sweating and rubbing Common triggers are: Friction Sweating Fungal infections This kind of psoriasis is uncommon and mostly appears in adults.
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What causes a black eye?
Most black eyes are the result of blunt trauma that causes bleeding beneath the thin eyelid skin, producing the characteristic black and blue discoloration. A fracture deep inside the skull can also blacken both eyes, even though the eye area itself was not injured. People with sinusitis from allergies sometimes get "allergic shiners" -- darkening under the eyes caused by inflamed and engorged blood vessels -- but this is not the same thing as a black eye, which is caused by an injury.
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What is a black eye?
Like many bruises, a "shiner" is usually nothing to worry about and will disappear in 1-2 weeks. In some cases, however, a black eye is a warning sign of more serious injury to the eye or to the skull. Any damage to the eyeball that causes it to become red and swollen must be promptly evaluated by a doctor or an eye specialist. Blunt force eye injuries, as happens in fighting, competitive sports, and ordinary accidents, could involve an unsuspected detached retina, internal bleeding, or other serious problems. An orbital fracture involving one of the five delicate bones around the eye may trap an eye muscle or soft tissues. A fracture could also damage the optic nerve and permanently damage eyesight. If so, emergency surgery may be required to correct the condition. Most black eyes are the result of blunt trauma that causes bleeding beneath the thin eyelid skin, producing the characteristic black and blue discoloration.
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What do the test results from the CD4 let the doctor know?
Your test results help your doctor know how much damage has been done to your immune system and what's likely to happen next if antiretroviral treatment ( ART) is not initiated. All persons with HIV should be started on ART regardless of whether the CD4 count is high or low. The CD4 count should increase in response to effective ART.
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What medication can be taken to help low CD4 counts?
Persons with very low CD4 counts may need to take drugs to prevent specific opportunistic infections ( OIs) in addition to taking their ART. Once the CD4 count increases in response to ART, it may be possible to stop taking these OI medications.
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What else can affect your CD4 count?
Things other than the HIV virus can influence how high or low your CD4 count is, too. An infection like the flu, pneumonia, or a herpes simplex virus (including cold sores) can make your CD4 count go down for a while. Your CD4 count will go way down when you're having chemotherapy for cancer. To get the most accurate and helpful results for your CD4 count, try to: Use the same lab each time. Wait for at least a couple of weeks after you've been sick or gotten a shot before you get a test.
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When should you get a CD4 count test?
Right after you're diagnosed, you should get a CD4 count for a "baseline measurement." That gives your doctor something to compare future test results to. It may also indicate the need for drugs to prevent specific OIs in addition to the drugs you are taking for HIV. A viral load test 2 to 8 weeks after you start or change treatment helps your doctor decide how well the ART is working. A CD4 test will indicate whether the immune system is improving in response to ART. Then you should typically get a CD4 test every 3 to 6 months, or as often as your doctor recommends, to see how well your immune system is doing. Persons with low CD4 counts who are taking drugs to prevent specific OIs in addition to their ART may be able to stop these OI drugs as their immune system responds to ART. Persons with CD4 counts above 500 who maintain viral suppression may not need further CD4 testing.
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What is metatarsalgia?
The term describes pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. It is often thought of as a symptom of other conditions, rather than as a specific disease. Frequency In the U. S., forefoot injuries, including metatarsalgia, are common in athletes who participate in high-impact sports.
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How is metatarsalgia diagnosed?
X-rays may be helpful in excluding other causes of forefoot pain. A bone scan can pinpoint places of inflammation. Ultrasound can help identify conditions such as bursitis or Morton neuroma that can be causing pain in the metatarsal region of the foot. The doctor may also ask for an MRI to help detect and diagnose many causes of pain in the metatarsal and midfoot regions. These can include traumatic disorders, circulatory conditions, arthritis, neuroarthropathies, and conditions that result in biomechanical imbalance.
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What medications are used in the recovery phase of metatarsalgia?
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, are useful; however, they rarely provide a long-term solution.
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What can make someone more likely to have forefoot problems?
The following factors can contribute to excessive localized pressure over the forefoot: High level of activity Prominent metatarsal heads Tight toe extensors (muscles) Weak toe flexors (muscles) Hammertoe deformity Hypermobile first foot bone Tight Achilles tendon Excessive pronation (side-to-side movement of the foot when walking or running) Ill-fitting footwear Some anatomical conditions may predispose individuals to forefoot problems. They include: A high arch A short first metatarsal bone or a long second metatarsal bone is often seen in people with a Morton toe; the normal forefoot balance is disturbed, resulting in the shift of an increased amount of weight to the second metatarsal.
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How common is metatarsalgia?
Frequency In the U. S., forefoot injuries, including metatarsalgia, are common in athletes who participate in high-impact sports.
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When should you see a doctor about an ankle sprain?
Most fully heal between 2 and 12 weeks after you hurt it. But if your pain is bothersome, especially when you put weight on the injured ankle, it's a good idea to see your doctor. She will be able to diagnose whether you have sprain and rule out any more serious injuries with similar symptoms. You should also see your doctor if the sprain doesn't seem to be improving over time. Remember, swelling is a natural response to an injury as your body rushes blood to the affected area to help heal it. Since your ankle is so far away from your heart, it takes time to pump blood to and away from the injury. Because of this, you may see swelling long after the ankle has healed. Speak to your doctor if you have: Prolonged pain Bruising Weakness Sprains can range from minor to severe.
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What is an ankle sprain?
This injury happens when the ligaments in your ankle tear or get stretched too much. Ligaments are the strong, stretchy bands that help stabilize your ankle. They hold the bones of your ankle together, but they allow for some movement. When there is too much movement, you may get a sprain.
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Where do ankle sprains most happen?
This causes the ligament on the outside of your ankle to stretch more than it is able to. Most ankle sprains happen when you're playing sports.
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What are the causes of an ankle sprain?
Most ankle sprains happen when you're playing sports. This is especially true for games where there's a lot of jumping or a chance of stepping on someone's foot. Those include: Basketball Soccer Volleyball Yet it's also just as easy to sprain your ankle by stepping off a curb the wrong way or taking a walk on the beach. You may have a greater chance for an ankle sprain if you've had one before. It's also more likely if you have weak muscles along the outside of the ankles. Even genetics can play a role. It's easier to turn your ankle and put strain on the ligament if your heel naturally turns more inward. That's known as “hindfoot varus.” One very clear sign of an ankle sprain is it hurts.
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What are symptoms of an ankle sprain?
That's known as “hindfoot varus.” One very clear sign of an ankle sprain is it hurts. A lot. Other symptoms you might have when your ankle is sprained: Tenderness to the touch Swelling Bruising Itching Cold or numb feet Stiffness If you tear your ligaments severely, you feel a pop or even hear a noise when the injury happens.
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What are the three grades of an ankle sprain?
Speak to your doctor if you have: Prolonged pain Bruising Weakness Sprains can range from minor to severe. Your doctor likely will put your sprain at one of three "grades" based on the amount of damage: Grade 1: Your ankle will probably feel sore and may be slightly swollen. In this case, the ligament has been overstretched but not torn. Grade 2: You have a partial tear in the ligament. This causes prolonged pain and swelling. It might prevent you from putting your full weight on the ankle. You may also notice bruising. This is because the tear has caused bleeding under your skin. Grade 3: This is a full tear of the ankle ligament. You may have heard a popping sound when it happened. This level of sprain causes severe pain, swelling and bruising. Because the ligament is no longer able to do its job, your ankle will feel unstable and will be unable to support any of your weight.
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Are cough medicines effective?
Not all doctors agree about the best way to treat a cough. Some don't think cough medicines are that effective. There are three common types of over-the-counter cough and cold medicines: Cough suppressants Oral expectorants Topical (creams or gels you put on your skin) They can be used to either stop your cough or loosen thick mucus to help you cough it up. When that's not enough, your doctor may prescribe a strong prescription cough medicine.
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Is there a cure for a cold?
There's no cure, but lots of medicines can give you some relief from the coughing, sneezing, and stuffiness that go with it. When you head to the pharmacy to look for an over-the-counter drug, keep in mind there's no such thing as a "perfect" cold medicine.
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How often can I use nasal sprays for congestion?
They work fast to open up your clogged nose. But if you use them for more than 3 days in a row, you may end up more stuffed up than you were before. Doctors call this the "rebound effect." Some side effects of nasal decongestants are having a hard time falling asleep, restlessness, and trouble peeing. You might try a saline spray instead of a nasal decongestant. It works more slowly, but it can loosen up the mucus in your nose without a rebound effect.
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How can I avoid pet allergens to prevent migraines?
Avoid pet allergens: Wash your hands after you touch any animal. If it lives in your home, keep it off your bed and out of your bedroom. Keep as few carpets and rugs in your home as you can. Wood floors, tile, and linoleum collect far less dander, the flakes of dead skin that cause most pet allergies. Vacuum any carpet you do have often.
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How can I control indoor allergens to prevent migraines?
Control indoor allergens: Keep your home free of dust. Clean with a wet mop instead of a broom. Use special covers on your box springs, mattress, and pillows to keep out dust mites. Wash your bedding each week in hot water, then dry on high heat.
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What else can I do to prevent migraines related to allergies?
No matter what kind of allergies you have, you can also: Drink plenty of fluids to keep your mucus thin. Water should be your first choice. Sip a cup of green tea each morning. It contains natural antihistamines, so it may give you some relief. Rinse out your nasal passages. Some people find relief by using a saline spray in their nose a few times a day, but a sinus rinse or neti pot may help more. They can remove allergens from your nose while cleaning your nasal lining. Try this once a day, or twice if your allergy symptoms are severe.
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How do allergies cause migraine headaches?
The link is complex. Doctors are still trying to figure it out. So far, they know that your nervous system, endocrine (hormonal) system, and immune system all play a role. If you get migraines, you have a sensitive nervous system. Your body tends to react very quickly, or overreact, to changes in your environment that it views as threats. On top of that, exposure to allergens (things you're allergic to) triggers your immune system to release certain chemicals. They can fuel inflammation throughout your body, all of which can set you up for a migraine. If you're prone to migraine headaches, your symptoms may be more severe during allergy season. Some people can also have “nonallergic” triggers like perfume, the smell of gasoline, cigarette smoke, and weather changes.
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How do decongestants treat allergies?
These can help open stuffy nasal passages and ease sinus pressure.
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What is the difference between a migraine and a sinus headache?
But if you have migraine headaches, you have an actual condition called migraine which results in migraine headaches. True sinus headaches are quite rare. In fact, most people who think they're having one are really having a migraine.
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Which allergy treatment should I avoid to prevent migraines?
They may be a good choice if you can't avoid what you're allergic to or medicines haven't helped. One allergy treatment you may need to avoid is steroid nasal sprays. They might bring on a migraine or make it worse.
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How does immunotherapy treat allergies?
Allergy shots can help cut back on migraine headaches. Plus, once you start taking them, any headaches you do have may be less severe. They expose your body to tiny amounts of the things you're allergic to. They may be a good choice if you can't avoid what you're allergic to or medicines haven't helped.
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Where can I find a neti pot?
Neti pots are available over-the-counter at many drug stores, health food stores, and online retailers. They usually cost between $15 and $30.
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Does nasal irrigation with a neti pot ease sinus symptoms?
Research backs up these claims, finding that nasal irrigation can be an effective way to relieve sinus symptoms when used along with standard sinus treatments. For some people, nasal irrigation may bring relief of sinus symptoms without the use of medications.
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What does incentive spirometer look like?
It's made of plastic and is about the size of a small notebook. It has a mouthpiece that looks like a vacuum tube. When you inhale with it, the suction will move a disc or a piston up inside a clear cylinder. The deeper you breathe, the higher the piston rises. Most spirometers have numbers on the cylinder to show how much air you take in. They also may have a gauge to tell if you're inhaling at the right pace.
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Is animal therapy helpful for children with cancer?
The dog can ease stress and anxiety for anyone else in the room, and he enjoys the attention, too.
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Is distraction therapy helpful for children with cancer?
It could: Lower anxiety and fear Ease pain Improve communication with her health care team Rebuild self-esteem that she may have lost due to treatment The idea is to take your child's mind off the pain, procedures, or other unpleasant things that go with cancer. Almost any enjoyable activity can count: A younger kid could rock a baby. An older one could watch fun movies. You don't need a therapist for this technique. Kids can do it on their own. Whether they play video games or work on crafts, they're doing something good for themselves. It can ease pain, fear, and nausea.
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Is laughter therapy helpful for children with cancer?
There's science at work here: When you laugh, your body releases feel-good hormones called endorphins. That's why cancer centers and hospitals offer this therapy. Although research is limited, studies show a session can quickly improve many negative feelings. It can also: Ease pain Relax muscles Calm fears Improve mood Relieve stress Canines and Childhood Cancer, a research project run by the American Humane Association, aims to show how therapy dogs that visit hospitals can make kids healthier.
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Can acupuncture help relieve back pain?
One recent review of 22 acupuncture studies showed that it provided short-term relief from chronic back pain. It also showed there was greater improvement in pain for people who got acupuncture compared to those who received a “sham” treatment. Other studies have found, though, that sham acupuncture can be as effective as actual acupuncture. Those studies also found that, compared to standard treatment, both actual acupuncture and sham acupuncture are more effective.
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Does exercise help prevent constipation?
Also, be sure to exercise regularly.
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How can you get fiber to prevent constipation?
Also, get sufficient fiber by eating: Fruits Vegetables Grains Fiber is critical, because most of our stool is actually made up of bacteria, and fiber provides the bacteria a good place to grow. Sounds strange, but the interaction results in a larger volume of stool and better bowel function.
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Can drinking water help prevent constipation?
Six to eight glasses a day is a good rule.
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What are symptoms of eye problems caused by high blood sugar?
Watch for these other skin symptoms: Hair loss on your toes, feet, or lower legs Brown patches of raised skin on the sides of your neck, armpit, or groin, called acanthosis nigricans The sooner you get treatment for eye problems, the better. Get help right away if you notice these warning signs: Blurred vision Trouble reading See rings around lights or dark spots Get very sensitive to sunlight and other bright light Can't see well at night Eye damage doesn't always cause symptoms, even when it's advanced. So it's important to see an eye doctor at least once a year for a thorough exam.
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How do I know if I have symptoms of heart disease if I have diabetes?
And if you have kidney disease, there could be no warning signs until your kidneys are damaged.
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What other diabetes-related skin symptoms should I watch for?
Watch for these other skin symptoms: Hair loss on your toes, feet, or lower legs Brown patches of raised skin on the sides of your neck, armpit, or groin, called acanthosis nigricans The sooner you get treatment for eye problems, the better.
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How are skin problems from high blood sugar treated?
You may notice symptoms like: Itching in moist folds of your skin, such as under your breasts, between fingers and toes, or in your armpits Itching, pain, or discharge in your vagina For uncircumcised men, itching under the foreskin Your doctor may prescribe medication for yeast infections, especially if you get them often.
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How can I catch health complications of diabetes if I don't have any symptoms?
Even without symptoms, though, you can catch these problems early, or make them less likely, with these steps: See your doctor at least once a year. Take your diabetes medication as prescribed. Try to lose weight if you're overweight. Eat healthy and don't skip meals. Exercise regularly. If you smoke, get help to quit. Work with your doctor to keep your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol under control.
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What are symptoms of nerve damage due to high blood sugar?
But it can also affect your stomach, bowels, bladder, genitals, heart, and other parts of your body. See your doctor right away if you get: Tingling, pain, or numbness in your hands or feet Stomach problems like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea A lot of bladder infections or trouble emptying your bladder Problems getting or keeping an erection Dizzy or lightheaded If you have nerve damage, you can improve or slow its progress if you keep your blood sugar levels near normal.
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Is there anything I can do if I have nerve damage due to high blood sugar?
See your doctor right away if you get: Tingling, pain, or numbness in your hands or feet Stomach problems like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea A lot of bladder infections or trouble emptying your bladder Problems getting or keeping an erection Dizzy or lightheaded If you have nerve damage, you can improve or slow its progress if you keep your blood sugar levels near normal. Some supplements and medications for pain, nausea, or sexual problems can also help.
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Can I have health complications of diabetes without having symptoms?
Call your doctor right away if you: Get very tired Lose weight Feel hungry a lot Get very thirsty and pee often Some serious health issues linked to diabetes may not have any symptoms, such as: Kidney disease High blood pressure Heart disease With diabetes, you may not have symptoms of heart disease even if you're having a heart attack. And if you have kidney disease, there could be no warning signs until your kidneys are damaged.
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What can help with keeping a normal blood sugar level if I have nerve damage?
See your doctor right away if you get: Tingling, pain, or numbness in your hands or feet Stomach problems like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea A lot of bladder infections or trouble emptying your bladder Problems getting or keeping an erection Dizzy or lightheaded If you have nerve damage, you can improve or slow its progress if you keep your blood sugar levels near normal. Some supplements and medications for pain, nausea, or sexual problems can also help.
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When should I see my doctor about the warning signs of diabetes problems?
But it can also affect your stomach, bowels, bladder, genitals, heart, and other parts of your body. See your doctor right away if you get: Tingling, pain, or numbness in your hands or feet Stomach problems like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea A lot of bladder infections or trouble emptying your bladder Problems getting or keeping an erection Dizzy or lightheaded If you have nerve damage, you can improve or slow its progress if you keep your blood sugar levels near normal.
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What tests are used to evaluate sexual problems?
Several tests can be used to evaluate the causes and extent of male sexual problems. They include: Blood tests -- These tests may be done to evaluate hormone levels as well as to check for diabetes, high cholesterol and other risk factors. Vascular assessment -- This involves an evaluation of the blood flow to the penis. A blockage in a blood vessel supplying blood to the penis may be contributing to erectile dysfunction. Sensory testing -- Particularly useful in evaluating the effects of diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), sensory testing measures the strength of nerve impulses in a particular area of the body. Nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity testing -- This test is used to monitor erections that occur naturally during sleep. This test can help determine if a man's erectile problems are due to physical or psychological causes.
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Who is affected by sexual problems?
They can occur in adults of all ages. Among those commonly affected are seniors, which may be related to a decline in health associated with aging. The most common sexual problems in men are ejaculation disorders, erectile dysfunction, and inhibited sexual desire.
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What is inhibited sexual desire?
Inhibited desire, or loss of libido, refers to a decrease in desire for, or interest in sexual activity. Reduced libido can result from physical or psychological factors. It has been associated with low levels of the hormone testosterone. It also may be caused by psychological problems, such as anxiety and depression; medical illnesses, such as diabetes and high blood pressure; certain medications, including some antidepressants; and relationship difficulties.
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When should I call my doctor about a sexual problem?
Many men experience a sexual problem from time to time. However, when the problems are persistent, they can cause distress for the man and his partner, and have a negative impact on their relationship. If you consistently experience sexual function problems, see your doctor for evaluation and treatment.
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What causes premature ejaculation?
Premature ejaculation, the most common form of sexual dysfunction in men, often is due to nervousness over how well he will perform during sex. But causes are often unclear. In some cases, premature and inhibited ejaculation are caused by a lack of attraction for a partner, past traumatic events, and psychological factors, including a strict religious background that causes the person to view sex as sinful. Certain drugs, including some antidepressants, may affect ejaculation, as can nerve damage to the spinal cord or back.
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How are male sexual problems diagnosed?
To diagnose a man's sexual problem, the doctor likely will begin with a thorough history of symptoms. He or she may order other tests to rule out any medical problems that may be contributing to the dysfunction. The doctor may refer you to other doctors, including a urologist (a doctor specializing in the urinary tract and male reproductive system), an endocrinologist (a doctor specializing in hormonal issues), a neurologist (a doctor specializing in disorders of the nervous system), sex therapists, and other counselors.
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How do sexual problems affect men?
The most common sexual problems in men are ejaculation disorders, erectile dysfunction, and inhibited sexual desire.
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How do hearing aids help with hearing loss?
Most people with permanent hearing loss can benefit from a hearing aid. You typically wear these tiny instruments in or behind your ear to make sounds louder. Things do sound different through a hearing aid though, so you should talk with your doctor to set realistic goals.
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What other devices can help with hearing loss?
TV-listening systems make it possible for you to hear the television or radio without turning the volume way up. Different kinds of phone-amplifying devices as well as captioned phones that let you read what your caller is saying make conversations possible on home and mobile phones. Cochlear implants are used mainly with young children, but they're becoming more popular among older adults with profound hearing loss.
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What are the treatments for hearing loss?
You may also: Have trouble following a conversation when more than one person speaks at once Think other people are mumbling or not speaking clearly Often misunderstand what others say and respond inappropriately Get complaints that the TV is too loud Hear ringing, roaring, or hissing sounds in your ears, known as tinnitus It depends on the type and source of your hearing loss. Prompt medical treatment for sudden hearing loss may raise your chance of recovery.
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How common is hearing loss?
Modern life has added a host of ear-damaging elements to the list, including some medications and plenty of sources of loud, ongoing noise. With so many untreatable cases of hearing loss, prevention is the best way to keep hearing long-term. If you've already lost some hearing, there are ways to stay connected and communicate with friends and family. Advanced age is the most common cause of hearing loss.