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ed58c1df9a3ec9c635a4d2548b16caae | How long will insurance cover my hospitalization for depression? | Some health insurance policies will cover hospitalization for a limited amount of time. Others won't cover it at all. However, under the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act ( MHPAEA), part of Obamacare, insurance companies cannot impose less favorable benefits on mental health coverage than on medical/surgical benefits, including necessary hospitalization. Before a person can be hospitalized, some insurers require that he or she be evaluated by an evaluator under contract with their company. Very few insurers will cover a hospital stay for depression that isn't an emergency. |
e20466294557fc4a85ef6a8d30df4939 | What are the rules when you're hospitalized for depression? | Even if you are admitted to the hospital on a voluntary basis, you usually cannot leave whenever you want. The hospital may strictly control visits from family and friends and limit the items you can take in with you, like cell phones or laptop computers. Sharp objects like razors that you may bring with you will usually be kept by staff in a safe place, and you may be asked to not wear shoe laces or belts. You may be on a locked ward for at least some of your stay. You may also be expected to follow a certain schedule. |
982d59a29dd5dd49010e7a25518f1684 | Why would I need to go to the hospital for my depression? | Usually, a stay in the hospital is just a way for you to recover in a safe and stable environment. This allows you to take a break from some of the daily stresses that contributed to your depression. |
8e91c0ad0469f8f39ac793d13efa5e57 | What is a colostomy irrigation? | Colostomy irrigation is a way to manage bowel movements by emptying the colon at a scheduled time. The process involves putting water into the colon through the stoma. This causes the colon to empty. By repeating this process regularly -- once a day or once every second day -- you can train your colon to empty without spilling waste in between irrigation. Colostomy irrigation also can help you avoid constipation. |
23f7e107f0be54087f993bb04ebb73fe | Should you do a colostomy irrigation? | That's a personal decision. If you are a candidate (see below), your doctor or a nurse who is specially trained to help people with colostomies, will discuss this option with you while you are still in the hospital after your surgery. |
ee87dcfd0178b10089665ede7472b0f8 | When should I do a colostomy irrigation? | It's most effective when done about an hour after a meal, which is when the colon is most likely to be full. You can do it once a day or once every other day, depending on your preference and ability to control your bowel movements. It generally takes about 6 to 8 weeks for the bowel to become regulated with irrigation. It helps to set a routine and irrigate at the same time each day. |
4bdfef9452588c0518dbf76b9fc02813 | Can I do a colostomy irrigation? | People with permanent colostomies and whose opening is in the descending or sigmoid portion of the colon are good candidates for irrigation. This is because their stools tend to be more formed. People with irritable bowel syndrome, stomal problems, or stomas in the ascending or transverse parts of the colon are less likely to have success with irrigation. |
7b3b5e19a167d1203131d0d8818b6299 | How can talking to your doctor help you sleep? | Let your doctor know that you have trouble sleeping. Find out your options, perhaps including medication, that can help you get a good night's rest. |
2828a726a77f0957e3332fd75186358f | Why should you avoid bright lights when trying to sleep? | Light makes you feel alert, which isn't what you want when you need to sleep. If you get up to go to the bathroom, get a drink, or have a snack, keep the lighting dim. If you read, don't use backlit screens such as computers, cell phones, or tablets. They can keep you awake. |
1846bfc98680d1ef4779b29da27b1a93 | How can getting out of bed help you get back to sleep? | It may not sound like the obvious thing to do, but if can't get back to sleep within 20 minutes or so, go to another room. Do something quiet and unexciting, like listening to soothing music or reading something you've read before. When you feel sleepy again, go back to bed. |
62e4fb8af5f145f2564b5ebaa07c30a3 | How can keeping a sleep diary help you sleep? | But during the daytime, keep a record of your sleep patterns and other habits. For instance, write down how often you woke up during the night, what disturbed your sleep, and how much caffeine or alcohol you had during the day. Then take the diary to your doctor. It will help the two of you plan a strategy to get more shut-eye. |
7eccc571696b83cf17e5862c18f65d5d | How can you relax enough to fall asleep? | You can quiet your mind if yourepeat a phrase while you do some rhythmic breathing. Visualization. It's a type of meditation that helps you distance yourself from stress by imagining the sights, sounds, and scents of a peaceful place. Progressive muscle relaxation. First tense your muscles, then relax them. Do this over and over throughout your body, starting with your feet and working your way up. |
91dfae69ecbd0ae0d80c80f820a77ad1 | What happens as a child with progeria ages? | They develop physical traits including: A bigger head Large eyes A small lower jaw A thin nose with a "beaked" tip Ears that stick out Veins you can see Slow and abnormal tooth growth A high-pitched voice Loss of body fat and muscle Hair loss, including eyelashes and eyebrows As children with progeria get older, they get diseases you'd expect to see in people age 50 and older, including bone loss, hardening of the arteries, and heart disease. Children with progeria usually die of heart attacks or strokes. Progeria doesn't affect a child's intelligence or brain development. A child with the condition isn't any more likely to get infections than other kids, either. |
0fdaa4df6a26ddc99fccb4a70c220395 | How do I do a breast self-exam lying down? | Lying down: Lie down and place a small pillow or folded towel under your right shoulder. Put your right hand behind your head. Place your left hand on the upper portion of your right breast with fingers together and flat. Body lotion may help to make this easier. Think of your breast as a face on a clock. Start at 12 o'clock and move toward 1 o'clock in small circular motions. Continue around the entire circle until you reach 12 o'clock again. Keep your fingers flat and in constant contact with your breast. When the circle is complete, move in 1 inch toward the nipple and complete another circle around the clock. Continue in this pattern until you've felt the entire breast. Make sure to feel the upper outer areas that extend into your armpit. Place your fingers flat and directly on top of your nipple. Feel beneath the nipple for any changes. Gently press your nipple inward. It should move easily. Repeat these steps on your other breast. Don't forget to check the upper, outer area of the breast, nearest to the armpit. |
908201e327fc36a1b0f7740a9343a8ad | What are the differences in men and women with multiple sclerosis? | In terms of all types of MS, at least twice as many women as men have the condition. But the ratio may be rising even higher. Some recent estimates place the number at 4 to 1 -- and suggest it is still going up. And ladies are more likely to have their first symptoms at younger ages. Three women for every man got MS before age 20. |
d5b352e199d8a456596740954f5da789 | When does multiple sclerosis normally affect women? | Multiple sclerosis doesn't hit all women at the same time in life. But it almost always begins before menopause. Symptoms often get worse after childbirth or at the end of a menstrual cycle. |
d64eba4eca718501992871499e85677a | How common is multiple sclerosis in women? | In terms of all types of MS, at least twice as many women as men have the condition. But the ratio may be rising even higher. Some recent estimates place the number at 4 to 1 -- and suggest it is still going up. And ladies are more likely to have their first symptoms at younger ages. Three women for every man got MS before age 20. |
c21f6a13ff2d3b35fb9ef4a2777a9096 | When do men normally contract multiple sclerosis? | MS in men is usually worse than in women. |
fb80e0d7b0d66521f0c8bbce7c20844f | What are the differences in the symptoms of primary progressive multiple sclerosis between men and women? | MS in men is usually worse than in women. But large studies of primary progressive MS show: Early on, the symptoms were just as severe and got worse just as fast for men as for women. After about 20 years of living with primary progressive MS, men's disease finally began to "outrun" the women's in terms of how bad their symptoms were. Why the differences? At this point, there are more questions than answers. Sex hormones may be one reason. Scientists are also studying clues in the body chemistry and brains of people with the condition. But research into this form of MS is only beginning. |
8be9b70da43464d8116961f8e79fc7e5 | What should you do if you want to try specific diets for eczema? | Despite the uncertain links between food and eczema, there's no doubt that enjoying plenty of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, and whole grains is good for your overall health. |
7bef2471117fbd8aba61743a78a98ea4 | How do you choose a program for alcohol use disorder? | You might want to make a list of questions to ask different programs, such as: What types of insurance do you take? How is your staff trained? Are they licensed? Can you send me a sample treatment plan? Do you offer counseling and medical services? How do you help prevent a relapse? Is there aftercare when I'm done with the program? |
b5f5d4d680d21e05dea2b741a9d30896 | What happens after you finish your alcohol use disorder program? | Ask about: Copays and other costs Services your plan covers, such as detox and inpatient or outpatient rehab How it decides what to cover Once you get back into the swing of your normal life, it might be easy to relapse and start drinking again. So you'll likely want follow-up care for at least a year. You have lots of options, including 12-step programs, private therapy, and group counseling. |
5fc17a341c7a354f9945460b09175449 | What are types of rehab programs for alcohol use disorder? | You may do this after partial hospitalization, detox, or residential rehab. |
bcbefd9f66b9e82fb3a7289e103d39e4 | What types of detox programs are there for alcohol use disorder? | Your two basic options for detox programs are: Inpatient, where you live at a hospital, detox clinic, or rehab center during the process. You'll have care around the clock to help you through. Outpatient, where you get some treatment during the day but live at home. This might be as simple as visiting your health care professional regularly to get meds. |
4d1b081e61739303646df450eb0b505e | What medications can treat fibromyalgia? | Three medications are FDA-approved to treat fibromyalgia: Cymbalta (duloxetine): Cymbalta is atype of antidepressant called a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor ( SNRI). Researchers aren't sure how Cymbalta works in fibromyalgia, but they think that increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine help control and reduce feelings of pain. Lyrica (pregabalin): Lyrica is a nerve pain and epilepsy drug. In people with fibromyalgia, it may help calm down overly sensitive nerve cells that send pain signals throughout the body. It has been effective in treating fibro pain. Savella (milnacipran): Savella is also an SNRI. While researchers aren't exactly sure how it works, studies have shown that it helps relieve pain and reduce fatigue in people with fibromyalgia. |
e562f2ab8c39d96982e97fd14ee50a4d | Who is at risk of getting a detached retina? | You're more likely to get one if you: Are severely nearsighted Have had an eye injury or cataract surgery Have a family history of retinal detachment A detached retina doesn't hurt. |
a18296c48f7b655f5fe7303e5cc7c735 | What are the symptoms of a detached retina? | You're more likely to get one if you: Are severely nearsighted Have had an eye injury or cataract surgery Have a family history of retinal detachment A detached retina doesn't hurt. It can happen with no warning at all. But you might notice: Flashes of light Seeing lots of new "floaters" (small flecks or threads) Darkening of your peripheral (side) vision If you have any of those symptoms, contact your eye doctor immediately. |
eb1a7bd11e2aabe925ff9c5287356a98 | How is a detached retina treated using laser (thermal) or freezing (cryopexy)? | Your doctor has several options: Laser (thermal) or freezing (cryopexy). Both methods can repair a tear if it is diagnosed early enough. The procedures are often done in the doctor's office. |
7ef1ea1c07805f28f72f51259be257fd | How is a detached retina treated using a scleral buckle? | In this surgical procedure, the doctor sews a silicone band (buckle) around the white of your eye (she'll call it the sclera). This pushes it toward the tear until it heals. This band is invisible and is permanently attached. Laser or cryo treatment can seal the tear. |
8ac72fe3f78a0f55d2376a80b011a4a3 | How can you protect your eyes from a detached retina? | Wear eye protection if you need it. Try sports goggles with polycarbonate lenses if you play racquetball or other sports that could harm your eyes. You may also need special glasses if you work with machines, chemicals, or tools for your job or at home. |
90025c887103d2356bb266fe9640465c | Can you prevent a detached retina? | Sometimes. Get to your eye doctor immediately if you develop new floaters, see flashing lights, or notice any other changes in your vision. Early is always better than late when it comes to treating retinal tears, detachments, and other serious issues. An eye exam can also flag early changes in your eyes that you may not have noticed. Treating those could prevent problems down the road. |
b8621fb1657e03a5915e3d13ae2c73ee | What should I do to prevent a retinal tear if I have diabetes or high blood pressure? | If you have diabetes or high blood pressure, keep those conditions under control. That will help keep the blood vessels in your retina healthy. |
33f4b404e4946d3a5bfe3318ed1c8e3c | Will an eye exam help prevent a detached retina? | An eye exam can also flag early changes in your eyes that you may not have noticed. Treating those could prevent problems down the road. |
8ea23191739801a826a14fb54edd58ba | Does eye protection help prevent a retinal tear? | Try sports goggles with polycarbonate lenses if you play racquetball or other sports that could harm your eyes. You may also need special glasses if you work with machines, chemicals, or tools for your job or at home. |
183e5cfd9d565f726bf0fcfa1e2a91cf | Can I prevent a detached retina? | Get to your eye doctor immediately if you develop new floaters, see flashing lights, or notice any other changes in your vision. Early is always better than late when it comes to treating retinal tears, detachments, and other serious issues. |
948f1fe0d4d5a5eb93ed2f7a3efb7241 | How is a retinal tear diagnosed? | The doctor will give you eye drops that widen your pupil (she'll call this dilating your eyes). |
e3bee111234d4f993292a311172a31c5 | What kind of surgery repairs a retinal tear? | In this surgical procedure, the doctor sews a silicone band (buckle) around the white of your eye (she'll call it the sclera). This pushes it toward the tear until it heals. This band is invisible and is permanently attached. Laser or cryo treatment can seal the tear. Vitrectomy. |
bf8a0f0bf0d7eb472ba5a11a7d3ffff0 | What is a retinal tear? | If your retina gets torn, the fluid inside your eye can leak underneath and separate the retina from its underlying tissue. |
9f770a40328e4f7ceec987a3fdf9137f | How do you treat macular degeneration? | For macular degeneration, there is currently no cure for age-related macular degeneration ( AMD), but new treatments are sometimes able to prevent severe visual loss. |
2443ca2a1a43d1a50b7d6b3de460d963 | How do you treat astigmatism? | To treat astigmatism, the accepted prescription is a lens that will correct or neutralize the effect of the uneven cornea. Again, you will typically have a choice between glasses and contact lenses. Surgery for astigmatism can include limbal relaxing incisions, LASIK, and toric intraocular lenses. |
66b0939b797e41972d71e472d63ca2cd | How do you treat cataracts? | With cataracts, the eye's natural lens becomes cloudy, obscuring vision. Correcting the problem was once a complex procedure requiring general anesthesia and a week of hospitalization. Today, a process called "phacoemulsification" uses ultrasound to break up the cataract and remove the tiny lens fragments through an incision so small that it usually requires no stitches. Some people mistakenly call this laser cataract surgery. The surgeon then inserts an artificial lens implant. Local anesthesia is used and the patient goes home from an outpatient facility typically within an hour or two after surgery. |
1a04c2b194cb866a8189700cc1e28fe0 | How are dilating eye drops used in an eye exam? | Dilating eye drops may be given in order for the doctor to complete a full exam. The purpose of dilation is to open the pupil or âwindowâ to allow a much better view of the lens, retina, and optic nerve. Although this can cause some temporary blurriness, it is a very important evaluation. Typically, sunglasses are given at the end of an exam to help protect the eyes from sensitivity after the dilation until the effect wears off. |
c29cf0c268b945741ade2af6b007428e | What treatments are available for age-related macular degeneration? | Treatment depends on the type of AMD, but may include: Injections of medication into the eye -- to prevent the formation of new, leaky blood vessels Laser therapy -- to destroy abnormal blood vessels Photodynamic therapy -- injection of medications that are activated by light exposure Submacular surgery (very rarely done) -- to remove blood under the retina, abnormal blood vessels or scar tissue Retinal translocation (very rarely done) -- surgical rotation of the damaged retinal tissue away from the macula Low-vision aids -- to help people with partial vision make the most of their remaining vision. |
c6fca144f27f4b5dd2155fb5fc1768bc | How can you protect yourself from age-related macular degeneration? | Other ways to protect your eyes from AMD include the following: Eating vegetables high in carotenoids, such as spinach and collard greens Wearing sunglasses with an ultraviolet filter when outdoors Not smoking Having regular visits to an eye care specialist to detect AMD and other eye diseases in the early stages For retinal detachment, some cases can be corrected with laser surgery, which has a high rate of success. |
0ae75936b0ce6fdc7b3b342a5bdbf565 | What is contact dermatitis? | Contact Dermatitis Contact dermatitis happens when your skin reacts badly to something that touches it. You might get it on your scalp from shampoos or other hair products. Or you could get it from a poison oak leaf brushing against your head. It causes patches of red, itchy, scaly skin. When it's severe, it also can lead to crusty, oozing sores. |
457ec86c2b4a7e3f4c70b82e783257a7 | How long does it take for contact dermatitis sores to go away? | If you stay away from the thing that triggered the rash, it should go away in 2 to 4 weeks. So if symptoms start just after you try a new hair product, switch to a different brand to see if that helps. Your doctor also can do skin tests to help figure out what's causing the problem. |
c020e68cd91ddf96e6f51ec100a067b1 | What is seborrheic dermatitis? | Seborrheic Dermatitis You probably know about the mildest form of this type of eczema -- dandruff. But it also can cause scaly, itchy patches on your scalp that can ooze and scab over. Symptoms tend to come and go and may be worse in winter. |
cf8e5a07337e60bbcbb2abf1e15cbbe0 | How do I get rid of folliculitis? | If it lasts more than a few days, see your doctor. You might need an antibiotic cream or other treatment, depending on what's causing it. Lice These tiny bugs don't usually cause head sores themselves. But they can make your scalp very itchy. |
f17fa04628a193b0846e62f1a85cf8b9 | How do I get rid of scalp ringworm? | But it also can affect adults. The best treatment is usually prescription medicine you take by mouth. Ringworm creams and powders don't tend to work on the scalp. |
73c0af7f67f019c3d46409261a249297 | What are less common causes for scalp sores? | Other Causes They're not as common, but lots of other conditions can cause head and scalp sores. They include acne, viruses like chickenpox, and a group of rare autoimmune diseases called pemphigus, which happen when your immune system attacks healthy cells. |
c057b831bd6c5d35518bf78ec634e266 | When should I see a doctor about the sores on my head? | Most aren't serious. It's a good idea, though, to see your doctor if they bother you. This is especially true if: Your head sores last more than a few days or won't heal. You have a lot of sores or they keep coming back. You've noticed any changes in the shape, size, or color of bumps or lumps on your scalp. |
62aa6eab341d6a3bab4e790b756201f2 | What is scalp ringworm? | Scalp Ringworm Ringworm is not a real worm. It's a common infection caused by a fungus. Ringworm goes by different names depending on where it is on your body. It's known as jock itch and athlete's foot. When it's on your head, it's called tinea capitis. It causes patches of itchy skin and hair loss that may get worse over time. You also may get a painful, pus-filled sore called a kerion on your scalp. |
2742481646f4af31cb17a444db4f2e30 | What happens if something bad gets in my hair follicle? | Folliculitis If bacteria, a virus, or fungus gets into a hair follicle, you can get this kind of infection. It may look and feel like a pimple, a painful red bump with or without a white head. |
10419c51019dd268c5b6d6ce636c261a | How can I treat seborrheic dermatitis? | But some things like special shampoos, medicines, and creams can help with the symptoms. |
4326b42717fdb97043fc8fee9cdb50a3 | How do I get rid of lice? | Special over-the-counter shampoos may be enough to get rid of them. Talk to your doctor about other treatments if shampoos don't do the trick. |
ab9bb10fbbf513308253d40b92066727 | Will lice make my head sore? | Lice These tiny bugs don't usually cause head sores themselves. But they can make your scalp very itchy. And scratching can lead to painful and even infected sores. If you have lice, you may notice their eggs (about the size of pinhead) attached firmly to shafts of hair. You also may see the bugs, which are about the size of a sesame seed. |
aa830383791309dc0b8246651d9d36ed | How is fatty liver disease treated? | The normal treatment for fatty liver disease, whether it's alcohol-related or not, is to reach a healthy weight through diet and exercise. |
5cb83a65ea0a5e0b451be83d9f94dd17 | Can a Mediterranean diet help with fatty liver disease? | Although it wasn't created for people with fatty liver disease, this style of eating combines the kinds of foods that help reduce fat in your liver: healthy fats, antioxidants, and complex carbohydrates. Things you'll see on the table that you should reach for include: Fish and seafood Fruits Whole grains Nuts Olive oil Vegetables Avocados Legumes Your cells use glucose, a kind of sugar, for energy. |
3662c8857a7958773f59b968f0d10eeb | Can I drink alcohol if I have fatty liver disease? | You shouldn't drink at all if your fatty liver disease results from heavy drinking. It can lead to more serious liver damage. If you have NAFLD, it may be OK to have a drink once in a while, but not more than every other month. |
50a7517ba83d850c13dddcdf5ef71cf6 | Are people with fatty liver disease resistant to insulin? | That means your body makes insulin but can't use it well. Glucose builds up in your blood, and your liver turns it into fat. |
d31d8e130eeb6a7c4939b0b185022683 | What is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)? | Meibomian gland dysfunction ( MGD) is a common eye condition, yet many people don't realize they have it. You get it when there's a problem with a few dozen tiny glands in your eyelids that help make tears. |
8d27b5c1b66e3c9e008b55e2aab3cbd4 | How is meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) diagnosed? | There's no single thing that can show that you have MGD. Your eye doctor will look closely at your eyelids to inspect the gland openings. She may press on your eyelids to squeeze oil out. The Schirmer's test checks if you make enough tears. Other tests can measure the quality of your meibum and how fast your tears evaporate. The combination of results can lead to a diagnosis of MGD. |
70dc613790a9f7f781992377abe5f3ac | What are self-care treatments for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)? | Put a warm, wet washcloth or heat pack over your eyelids for 5 minutes, twice a day, to help loosen the oil. Follow this with a light fingertip massage. For the upper lid, look down and very gently roll one side of your index finger from the top of your eyelid down to the lash line. For the lower lid, look up at the ceiling and roll your finger up to the lash line. To help unblock gland openings, clean with a non-soap cleanser once a day. Dab it on a warm, wet washcloth and gently go along your upper and lower lash lines. |
53e2e5b0bed575317e31e21fdee05565 | What are treatments for meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)? | For more advanced MGD and depending on what other health issues you have, your doctor may add medications to your care plan: Lubricants Antibiotics for infections Cyclosporine to suppress your immune system Steroids that help ease inflammation These could be eye drops or spray, creams, or pills. In the office, your doctor may use devices that send heat or pulsed light to open blocked meibomian glands and improve symptoms. |
e6b78043a4425522f720ca7f3a6ffad7 | How soon do birth control pills work? | When taken as directed, birth control pills are usually effective the first month you begin taking them. To be safe, some doctors recommend the use of another form of birth control, such as condoms and foam, during the first month. After the first month, you can just rely on the pill for birth control. |
9125c4b83864d57dc60bf445cc5f5bf8 | What are some points to keep in mind when taking birth control pills? | Keep another form of birth control, like spermicidal foam and condoms, on hand in case you forget to take a pill. Carry your pills with you if you don't always sleep at the same place. Take your pill at the same time every day. If you are using the patch, replace your patch weekly on the same day. If you are using the vaginal ring, remove it after three weeks of use and insert a new one 7 days later. Get your refills soon after you start the last prescription. Don't wait until the last minute to request refills. Birth control pills, patches, and vaginal rings are all medications. Always tell your doctor or pharmacist you are on the pill, patch, or vaginal ring if you see him or her for any reason. |
4e1fc1f9ca1b21988a7fae371148ac6b | What are mini birth control pills? | These are pills that contain only one hormone (progestin). They do not contain estrogen and may be prescribed in women who are breastfeeding or in women who experience nausea or other side effects of estrogen. |
d2fbbb01aef5eaf30fba083959ee82af | What should you consider about the side effects of birth control pills? | They include: Abdominal pain (stomach pain) Chest pain Headaches (severe) Eye problems (blurred vision) Swelling or aching in the legs and thighs Birth control pills that contain drospirenone, including YAZ and Yasmin, have been investigated by the FDA because of the possibility that they may cause an increased risk for blood clots. Drospirenone is a man-made version of the hormone progesterone. Other brands containing drospirenone include Beyaz, Safyral, Gianvi, Loryna, Ocella, Syeda, and Zarah. The results of the investigation are inconsistent. Some studies showed there was an increased risk while other studies showed no increased risk. The drugs are still available. A summary of the findings is contained on the packaging label. If you are taking a pill with drospirenone, talk with your doctor about your risk. |
c43cfc83ccdb326e2e138e3c81a0b51e | How does hormonal contraception work? | A woman becomes pregnant when an egg released from her ovary (the organ that holds her eggs) is fertilized by a man's sperm. The fertilized egg attaches to the inside of a woman's womb (uterus), where it receives nourishment and develops into a baby. Hormones in the woman's body control the release of the egg from the ovary -- called ovulation -- and prepare the body to accept the fertilized egg. Hormonal contraceptives (the pill, the patch, and the vaginal ring) all contain a small amount of man-made estrogen and progestin hormones. These hormones work to inhibit the body's natural cyclical hormones to prevent pregnancy. Pregnancy is prevented by a combination of factors. The hormonal contraceptive usually stops the body from ovulating. Hormonal contraceptives also change the cervical mucus to make it difficult for the sperm to go through the cervix and find an egg. Hormonal contraceptives can also prevent pregnancy by changing the lining of the womb so it's unlikely the fertilized egg will be implanted. |
70cea68d1fa887fdb4055f5d20465ddc | When do I start another birth control pill pack? | If you are on the 21-day pill pack, start the new pill pack seven days after you finished the old pill pack. If you are on the 28-day pill pack, begin the new pack after taking the last pill in the old pack. Start your new pill pack on schedule whether or not you get your period or are still having your period. |
160a216b78ab3741efdecd95c9a62e43 | Can any woman take birth control pills? | Birth control pills can be taken safely by most women. They are not recommended, though, for women over age 35 who smoke. If you don't smoke, you can use hormonal contraceptives until menopause. In addition, you should not take hormonal contraceptives if you have had: Blood clots in the arms, legs, or lungs Serious heart or liver disease Cancer of the breast or uterus Uncontrolled high blood pressure Migraines with aura There are other conditions as well that may increase your level of risk that comes with taking birth control pills. If you are not sure if you are affected by one of these conditions, ask your doctor. Also, inform your doctor if you have a first-degree relative (parent, brother, sister, child) who has had blood clots in the legs or lungs. |
c8b6c98005d0c2326a248b47f9d63985 | How effective are mini birth control pills? | When taken as directed, birth control pills are usually effective the first month you begin taking them. |
1f529978ff2d70942ec1f080b2a64d9c | How are birth control pills packaged? | You will receive a set of pills packaged in a thin case. Pill packs containing regular birth control pills have either 21 or 28 pills. Twenty-one-day pill packs contain 21 active pills. Twenty-eight day pill packs contain 21 active pills and seven inactive (placebo) pills. The pill packs are marked with the days of the week to remind you to take a pill every day. The seven inactive pills in the 28-day pill pack are added so that you are reminded to start a new pill pack after 28 days. Some newer pills have only 2 inactive pills or even no inactive pills in the pack. It's important to always take all the pills to be sure you are protected from getting pregnant. A package of extended-cycle Seasonale contains 84 active pink tablets and seven inactive white pills. With Seasonique and Lo Seasonique, the last 7 pills contain estrogen only. |
35558e97386ce6fda61debcb3b28a739 | How do extended-cycle hormonal contraceptives work? | Another option for hormonal contraceptives is the extended-cycle pill, such as Seasonale, which was the first one to be approved. Seasonale contains the same hormones as other birth control pills, but the hormones are taken in a longer cycle. That reduces the number of menstrual periods from 13 periods a year to only four a year. That means a woman who takes this pill will menstruate only once each season. Seasonale contains the same combination of two hormones that are commonly used in other hormonal contraceptives. But the pill is taken continuously for 12 weeks followed by one week of inactive pills, which results in a menstrual cycle. Other extended-cycle pills, such as Seasonique and Lo Seasonique use a different configuration of the same hormones. Both of these pills use estrogen in the final week, with Lo Seasonique providing a lower dose option. |
e4ec0e3bb50635bd180d66bfdbec6858 | Where can I get birth control pills? | Birth control pills are only available with a doctor's prescription. |
bdf87bd12b2d053f6ce783bc041925e7 | How do I begin taking birth control pills? | Ask your doctor when you should start birth control pills. If you are still having your period on the day that you have been told to start your pill pack, go ahead and start the pill pack anyway. You will get your next period about 25 days after starting the pill pack. It's best to take the pills at the same time every day. You can take the pill at anytime during the day, but taking it either before breakfast or at bedtime will help make it easier to remember. Extended-cycle pills works in a similar way. You start taking the pill the first Sunday after your period starts. If your period starts on a Sunday, start Seasonale that day. Then you take one active tablet a day for 84 consecutive days. Then depending on the type of pill you're taking, you have seven days of taking one placebo or estrogen only pill per day. |
5ba83458f1bd70ffa77eb96c3cba4607 | How are birth control pills taken? | !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Women take the pill by mouth to prevent pregnancy, and, when taken correctly, it is up to 99.9% effective. However, the pill does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV (the virus that causes AIDS). The latex male condom provides the best protection from most STDs. Other types of combined estrogen and progestin hormonal contraception include the patch and the vaginal ring. |
155fd0ed9de2d242190f31cc6ca33414 | Are there side effects of taking birth control pills? | Side effects include: Nausea Weight gain Sore or swollen breasts Small amounts of blood, or spotting, between periods Lighter periods Mood changes The following side effects, easily remembered by the word " ACHES," are less common but more serious. If you experience any of these, contact your doctor immediately. If you cannot reach your doctor, go to an emergency room or urgent care center for evaluation. These symptoms may indicate a serious disorder, such as liver disease, gallbladder disease, stroke, blood clots, high blood pressure, or heart disease. They include: Abdominal pain (stomach pain) Chest pain Headaches (severe) Eye problems (blurred vision) Swelling or aching in the legs and thighs Birth control pills that contain drospirenone, including YAZ and Yasmin, have been investigated by the FDA because of the possibility that they may cause an increased risk for blood clots. |
ef56e27ed6666bcf8eead9f8cbab0cf1 | Should I carry my shopping bags carefully if I have rheumatoid arthritis? | Carry carefully. Carry shopping bags over your forearm. You'll spare the weaker joints in your fingers and wrist. Whenever possible, put your purchases in a backpack or bag with a shoulder or cross-body strap. |
10eccc8e8d24043f84cde2a63d92f02f | What should I tell my friends if I have rheumatoid arthritis? | Be clear with your friends. Before you head out, be up-front about how your RA affects you. Ask your friends to be flexible. You may need to pare down the schedule a little and take time for breaks. Don't keep mum and then overdo it, or you could risk a flare. |
8d6604858d7b76398467c3f7e240d7ea | What does it mean if I'm wheezing or hear whistling sound when I breathe? | A high-pitched whistling sound when you breathe in or out means that your airways have narrowed. This could be due to asthma, but it can also be because of an infection or allergic reaction. Wheezing can also signal that you inhaled something by mistake and it's stuck in your airway. |
a8aa6ff95f1d9f78bc183cffbc04f50e | Can getting good sleep help with my stress? | Adults need an average of 7 to 9 hours of sleep a night. If you're stressed out, you're most likely getting way less, and it's probably pretty low-quality sleep. This -- you guessed it -- will cause you to be even more stressed. So, you need to make a serious commitment to going to bed earlier and getting more restful sleep. Your new yoga or meditation program could do wonders for your sleep. Before bed, wind down by turning off your various devices and reading instead of looking at a screen. |
5c7fecd5a97a5bb3d5bb795c1e660578 | Should I see a therapist to help me manage my stress? | Many of us feel like we have to handle stress on our own. But there's no shame in getting professional help when stress starts to take a toll on your mental and physical health. Beyond being a friendly and knowledgeable person to talk to, a therapist can assist you in making the major life changes on this list. A psychologist or counselor can coach you through a career switch, advise you on how to handle toxic people, motivate you to start that exercise routine, and even teach you how to meditate. |
c919494d032bf74c17f10cc05666cea4 | What happens when stress becomes chronic? | When it becomes chronic stress, it can do real harm to your body, and cause emotional and physical problems, including: Digestive problems Reproductive issues Muscle tension Fatigue Chest pain High blood pressure Anxiety Irritability Depression All of these stress-related problems can, in turn, make you withdraw socially and maybe try to cope through drugs, alcohol, and overeating -- all of which cause their own serious complications. |
a5a97336de0ed698613c1669a764231b | Can finding a new job cut stress out of your life? | This is a big change, and yes, it's easier said than done. But the workplace is the biggest source of stress for Americans. If your job is causing you mental and physical harm, you should take the leap and find a new one if the problems at work simply can't be fixed. |
847bb4db56d0d2fcdeae97a9392cc5ef | What are good food sources of calcium? | Good sources of calcium include: Milk Cheese Yogurt Broccoli, kale, and Chinese cabbage Fortified cereals, juices, soy products, and other foods Tofu Experts say that most adults in the U. S. don't get enough calcium. |
410d0864df8691aeadbe4910c1a5258a | What are the risks of calcium supplements? | At normal doses, calcium supplements may cause bloating, gas, and constipation. Very high doses of calcium can cause kidney stones. Research has found an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes in some people taking calcium supplements in addition to a diet high in calcium, though the true accuracy of these findings is being actively debated by experts. |
a6bfbdd92397346f6f629165f1337a59 | Can calcium supplements help prevent osteporosis? | Because of its health benefits, calcium is one of the best-selling supplements in the U. S. Calcium is crucial in growing new bone and maintaining bone strength. Calcium supplements are standard for treating and preventing osteoporosis -- weak and easily broken bones -- and its precursor, osteopenia. |
70e9f165de20d807ea1f95265b96a078 | How can pregnancy cause blurred vision? | Many pregnant women retain fluids. This common side effect can change the thickness and shape of your cornea. That can lead to distorted vision. These changes usually go away after delivery or after you stop breastfeeding. |
8e4961acf2804b9697eaa41adad761e2 | How can Crohn's disease affect a child's bones? | The nutritional deficiencies associated with Crohn's can compromise a child's growth, and can weaken the bones, leading to osteoporosis. |
c81b82e61247336c2eb893c2a3718d18 | What causes my baby to vomit during eating? | Vomiting, when food comes up more forcefully, can have many causes -- an immature digestive system, infection, medication, and motion sickness, to name a few. Although vomiting usually gets better on its own, call the pediatrician if your baby appears dehydrated, has forceful vomiting or vomits for more than 24 hours, you see blood in the vomit, the child seems to be in pain, or he or she can't retain fluids. Forceful vomiting in infants may be caused by a physical condition called pyloric stenosis, which blocks food from moving into the intestines from the stomach. This condition, which commonly happens between the ages of 4 and 8 weeks, requires surgical correction. |
5dd7462c4ea3af611d2715b927fb7a5d | Why does my baby avoid eating new foods? | Avoiding New Foods Just about every child goes through a period of rejecting new foods. Fortunately, most children grow out of this phase, though it can sometimes take weeks, even months. Help your baby accept new foods more easily by making sure the new food looks similar to a familiar favorite, for example pureed carrots and pureed sweet potato, or mashed potatoes and mashed sweet potatoes. Then, starting with very small portions, gently offer the new food to your child three times during a meal. If she refuses, don't overreact; just move on to something you know she likes. Try offering the same food at another meal. |
e1355fd051b1736f9aaf34a718726e67 | Why is my baby a picky eater? | There are many reasons infants may be finicky about food. They may be teething, tired, not yet ready for solids, or just don't need as much food as you're feeding them. Familiar foods provide your baby comfort in stressful, busy times. Although picky eating may linger awhile, it rarely lasts. |
600ab723524c26f4be6d703d3ed2a789 | What should I do if my baby has issues eating? | First, relax. Although feeding hurdles are frustrating, if your baby is growing and developing normally, there's usually no reason to worry. |
3fdcaa5453a23c80aba2a994b1383dcf | Why does my baby refuse to eat food? | Refusing Food Babies refuse food for many reasons: They may be full, tired, distracted, or sick. Perhaps baby's feeding schedule just isn't your feeding schedule. Don't worry, a baby will always eat if he's hungry, so if your little one is swatting at the spoon, turning away, or clamping his mouth shut, he's telling you that he's had enough for now. Just make sure your baby is being fed healthy foods and junk foods are not filling him up earlier. Try to trust that your baby knows how much food he needs, and never force feed your child, which can turn feeding time into fighting time. That said, if a refusal to eat has you worried, always talk to your pediatrician. |
87e915574205ec1845424a0e32ec7269 | How can I manage my baby's reflux? | To help manage reflux, feed baby a little less or more slowly at each meal; change or loosen baby's diaper; keep her upright after feeding for at least 30 minutes (for example, sit her in a swing or car seat); limit active play after eating; raise the head of baby's bed by propping up the mattress (not by pillows or stuffed animals) under the child's head. |
fed6e58edd60590d5b84ed1dcdb84011 | How can I stop my baby from spitting food? | The good news is that spitting up tends to fade as babies reach their first birthday. You can reduce the chances of your baby spitting up by burping him regularly, avoiding overfeeding, keeping baby upright as you feed him, and avoiding playing with baby immediately after eating. |
ce5b5d35e1603b20f9ac2e981958fe8b | When should I call the doctor about my baby's eating problem? | Baby feeding problems can be caused by many things, so it's always a good idea to talk to your child's health care provider if you're concerned, especially if your child is not growing appropriately or is not reaching his milestones. Call your child's pediatrician if your baby appears to be losing weight, is lethargic, seems to be dehydrated, has vomiting, gagging, or diarrhea that is persistent or related to certain foods, has abdominal pain, or simply if you have questions or concerns. |
a84cf9fe8be00dcd34c034582f881c69 | How is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) used to treat bipolar I disorder? | Electroconvulsive Therapy ( ECT) Despite its scary reputation, electroconvulsive therapy ( ECT) is a safe and effective treatment for both manic and depressive symptoms. ECT is often used to treat severe forms of depression or mania in bipolar I disorder when medicines may not be effective or likely to work fast enough to bring symptom relief. |
cc031718fa90fbd4c813c9930b192270 | Who is at risk for bipolar I disorder? | Understanding Bipolar Disorder Virtually anyone can develop bipolar I disorder. About 2.5% of the U. S. population suffers from bipolar disorder -- almost 6 million people. Most people are in their teens or early 20s when symptoms of bipolar disorder first appear. Nearly everyone with bipolar I disorder develops it before age 50. People with an immediate family member who has bipolar are at higher risk. |
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