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What is a normal hemoglobin A1c test result?
For people without diabetes, the normal range for the hemoglobin A1c level is between 4% and 5.6%. Hemoglobin A1c levels between 5.7% and 6.4% mean you have a higher chance of getting diabetes. Levels of 6.5% or higher mean you have diabetes.
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How often should people with diabetes get a hemoglobin A1c test?
People with diabetes should have an A1c test every 3 months to make sure their blood sugar is in their target range. If your diabetes is under good control, you may be able to wait longer between the blood tests. But experts recommend checking at least two times a year.
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What is the hemoglobin A1c test for diabetes?
The hemoglobin A1c test tells you your average level of blood sugar over the past 2 to 3 months. It's also called Hb A1c, glycated hemoglobin test, and glycohemoglobin. People who have diabetes need this test regularly to see if their levels are staying within range. It can tell if you need to adjust your diabetes medicines. The A1c test is also used to diagnose diabetes.
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How often should people with diabetes have an A1c test?
People with diabetes should have an A1c test every 3 months to make sure their blood sugar is in their target range. If your diabetes is under good control, you may be able to wait longer between the blood tests. But experts recommend checking at least two times a year.
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What else should I know about genital herpes?
Educate yourself about genital herpes. You'll find out that it's not as serious as it may seem, and that couples can and do have wonderful, sexually fulfilling relationships, even if one partner has genital herpes. Sometimes, people in long-term relationships suspect that their partner has been cheating when he or she is diagnosed. That's not necessarily true -- your partner could have been infected years or decades before you met. Also, consider the possibility that you gave your partner herpes. Millions of people live with genital herpes without having a clue that they're infected. In fact, health experts estimate that 90% of those who are infected in the United States don't know it. A herpes infection doesn't always cause obvious sores on the genitals. In many cases, it causes no noticeable symptoms at all. Health care professionals say that sex partners of people with herpes should be tested, as that is the only way to know for sure if they are infected or not.
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What do I do if my partner has genital herpes?
But instead of declaring the sexual part of your relationship over or out of the question, think of ways you can be intimate without risking infection. You can reduce the risk of becoming infected through sexual intercourse by using condoms and avoiding sex when your partner has symptoms. There will always be some risk, even if you practice safer sex, but you can minimize it as much as possible.
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What happens when stage II chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) symptoms get worse?
You may also start to have flare-ups, called exacerbations. This is when your symptoms get worse for several days at a time. They can be very serious. Keep an eye out for: Feeling confused Being more breathless than usual Change in color of mucus, which may be the first sign of a flare-up Change in amount of mucus, either more or less More coughing More tiredness New sleep problems Tell your doctor if you have any of these. Get medical help right away if you feel confused or have trouble breathing.
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How can I prevent night terrors?
If your child has night terrors, you can try to interrupt her sleep in order to prevent one. Here is how to do it: First, note how many minutes the night terror occurs from your child's bedtime. Then, awaken your child 15 minutes before the expected night terror, and keep her awake and out of bed for five minutes. You may want to take your child to the bathroom to see if she will urinate. Continue this routine for a week.
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What exams and tests do doctors use to diagnose night terrors?
Usually, a complete history and a physical exam are sufficient to diagnose night terrors. If other disorders are suspected, additional tests may be useful to exclude them: An electroencephalogram ( EEG), which measures brain activity, may be performed if a seizure disorder is suspected. Polysomnography (a combination of tests used to check for adequate breathing while asleep) may be done if a breathing disorder is suspected. CT scans and MRIs are usually not necessary.
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How can I treat night terrors at home?
Parents might take the following precautions at home: Make the child's room safe to try to prevent the child from being injured during an episode. Eliminate all sources of sleep disturbance. Maintain a consistent bedtime routine and wake-up time.
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What is the medical treatment for night terrors?
Unfortunately, no adequate treatment exists for night terrors. Management primarily consists of educating family members about the disorder and reassuring them that the episodes are not harmful. In severe cases in which daily activities (for example, school performance or peer or family relations) are affected, low-dose benzodiazepines (such as clonazepam) or tricyclic antidepressants (such as imipramine) may be used as a temporary treatment.
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What are the symptoms of night terrors?
While most of the time they have no specific cause, night terrors can sometimes result from: Stressful life events Fever Sleep deprivation Medications that affect the central nervous system (the brain) Recent anesthesia given for surgery In addition to frequent recurrent episodes of intense crying and fear during sleep, with difficulty arousing the child, children with night terrors may also experience the following: Tachycardia (increased heart rate) Tachypnea (increased breathing rate) Sweating during episodes The typical night terror episode usually begins approximately 90 minutes after falling asleep.
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What should I know about night terrors?
Night terrors typically occur in children ages 3-12, with a peak onset at age 3 1/2. There are two main types of sleep: rapid eye movement ( REM) and non-rapid eye movement (non- REM). Non- REM sleep has stages, and night terrors happen during the transition from stage 3 to stage 4. They typically occur approximately 90 minutes after the child falls asleep. Night terrors are distinctly different from the common nightmares, which occur during REM sleep. Night terrors are characterized by frequent recurrent episodes of intense crying and fear during sleep, with difficulty arousing the child. Unlike nightmares, most children do not recall a dream after a night terror episode, and they usually do not remember the episode the next morning. Night terrors are frightening episodes that can disrupt family life. An estimated 1%-6% of children experience night terrors. Boys and girls are equally affected. Children of all races also seem to be affected equally. It is a disorder that is usually outgrown by adolescence.
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What is the outlook for night terrors?
It is a disorder that is usually outgrown by adolescence.
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When should I seek medical care for night terrors?
Sleep disruption is a parent's most frequent concern during the first years of a child's life. Half of all children develop a disrupted sleep pattern serious enough to warrant a visit to the pediatrician. During his or her evaluation, the doctor may also be able to exclude other possible disorders that might cause night terrors.
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What is chondromalacia?
Chondromalacia refers to a softening of the cartilage under the kneecap (patella). It is a common cause of deep knee pain and stiffness in younger women and can be associated with pain and stiffness after prolonged sitting and climbing stairs or hills. While treatment with anti-inflammatory medications, ice packs, and rest can help, long-term relief is best achieved by strengthening exercises for the muscles of the front of the thigh.
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What diseases and conditions can cause knee pain?
Pain can occur in the knee from diseases or conditions that involve the knee joint, the soft tissues and bones surrounding the knee, or the nerves that supply sensation to the knee area. The knee joint is commonly affected by rheumatic diseases, immune diseases that affect various tissues of the body including the joints.
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How do you treat bursitis of the knee?
Bursitis is generally treated with ice packs, immobilization, and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin) or aspirin and may require local injections of corticosteroids (cortisone medication) as well as exercise therapy to develop the musculature of the front of the thigh.
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How can skipping your medication affect your blood pressure?
For some people, lifestyle changes are enough to get and keep blood pressure under control. But many people need medication, too. It's important to take it exactly as your doctor prescribes. That means not cutting doses or skipping days. If you have trouble remembering, get help with electronic reminders or daily pillboxes.
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What should you eat to help lower your blood pressure?
The experts recommend you: Skip foods high in total and saturated fat. Load up on fruits and vegetables in as many colors as possible. Go heavy on whole grains, and stay away from processed foods, especially ones high in carbohydrates, sugar, fat, and salt. Control how much alcohol you drink. While small amounts may lower your blood pressure, large amounts can have the opposite effect. Have no more than one drink a day if you're a woman; two or less if you're a man. Go easy on the caffeine. It can raise your blood pressure. These are the basic rules of a program called DASH ( Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension). It's considered by many to be the best diet when it comes to managing and lowering blood pressure.
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How can relaxing help to lower your blood pressure?
Lowering your stress helps keep your blood pressure normal. Try mind-body exercises like yoga and tai chi. Listen to calming music, or make music. One study found that playing music had benefits that were similar to physical activity. Sitting in the sun can boost feel-good chemicals called endorphins and lower your blood pressure. And don't forget about your support network. Rely on friends and family to lighten your mood. Meditation can also help with stress.
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How can losing weight affect your blood pressure?
If you're overweight, losing as little as 10 pounds can lower your blood pressure. It will also help with sleep apnea -- when your breathing briefly stops multiple times while you sleep. ( It can raise your blood pressure and make your heart beat irregularly.) Shed pounds slowly with a steady mix of healthy eating and exercise. Keeping tabs on the scale will help your blood pressure take care of itself. Check your readings regularly at home, and try to stay in your target range.
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How can salt affect your blood pressure?
It's a prime offender in raising blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends that people with hypertension keep it under 1,500 milligrams a day. Check your food labels to see how much you're getting. If you cut back gradually, you're less likely to notice the difference. One way to cut back is to prepare your food at home. 75% of your sodium intake comes from eating out and packaged foods. Use more spices for flavor instead of salt. Eating more potassium (found in foods like bananas, raisins, tuna, and milk) helps move sodium out of your body. A small effort can bring blood pressure down as much as 2 to 8 points.
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How can trauma to the skin cause psoriasis?
Trauma to the skin. In some people with psoriasis, trauma to the skin -- including cuts, bruises, burns, bumps, vaccinations, tattoos, and other skin conditions -- can cause a flare-up of psoriasis symptoms at the site of the injury. This condition is called " Koebner phenomenon."
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What triggers a psoriasis flare-up?
While the underlying cause of psoriasis stems from your body's immune system, certain triggers can make symptoms worse or cause flare-ups. These psoriasis triggers include: Cold and dry weather. Such weather can dry out your skin, which makes the chances of having a flare-up worse. In contrast, hot, sunny weather appears to help control the symptoms of psoriasis in most people. Stress. Having psoriasis can itself cause stress, and patients often report that outbreaks of symptoms come during particularly stressful times. Some medications. Certain drugs, such as lithium (a common treatment for bipolar disorder), drugs for malaria, and some beta-blockers (used to treat high blood pressure, heart disease, and some heart arrhythmias), can cause flare-ups of psoriasis symptoms. Infections. Certain infections, such as strep throat or tonsillitis, can result in guttate (small, salmon-pink droplets) or other types of psoriasis two to three weeks after the infection. Psoriasis symptoms may worsen in people who have HIV. Trauma to the skin. In some people with psoriasis, trauma to the skin -- including cuts, bruises, burns, bumps, vaccinations, tattoos, and other skin conditions -- can cause a flare-up of psoriasis symptoms at the site of the injury. This condition is called " Koebner phenomenon." Alcohol. Using alcohol may increase the chances of psoriasis flare-ups. Smoking. Some experts think that smoking can worsen psoriasis symptoms.
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How can alcohol cause psoriasis?
Using alcohol may increase the chances of psoriasis flare-ups.
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How can infections cause psoriasis?
Certain infections, such as strep throat or tonsillitis, can result in guttate (small, salmon-pink droplets) or other types of psoriasis two to three weeks after the infection. Psoriasis symptoms may worsen in people who have HIV.
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How can I use a deep breathing technique to help relieve stress that may be causing erectile dysfunction (ED)?
Deep breathing: Imagine a spot just below your navel. Breathe into that spot, filling your abdomen with air. Let the air fill you from the abdomen up, then let it out, like deflating a balloon. With every long, slow exhalation, you should feel more relaxed.
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What is recovery from brucellosis like?
Recovery can take weeks, even months. Patients who receive treatment within one month of the start of symptomscan be cured of the disease.
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What are the long-lasting symptoms of brucellosis?
Severe brucellosis may cause: Infection of the central nervous system Endocarditis (infection of the lining of the heart or valves) Liver abscess Brucellosis can cause long-lasting symptoms that are similar to systemic exertion intolerance disease. SEID is formerly known as Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The symptoms can lead to disability. They may include: Fatigue Fevers that come and go Joint pain Brucellosis in a pregnant woman may lead to: Miscarriage Birth defects in the baby Death from brucellosis is uncommon.
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What might your doctor find when examining for brucellosis?
You may have: A swollen liver Swollen lymph nodes A swollen spleen Unexplained fever Joint swelling and pain A rash Blood tests will be done to diagnose the infection and determine what type of Brucella is making you sick.
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What risks does brucellosis present for a pregnant woman?
They may include: Fatigue Fevers that come and go Joint pain Brucellosis in a pregnant woman may lead to: Miscarriage Birth defects in the baby Death from brucellosis is uncommon.
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What are the symptoms of brucellosis?
These come from high-risk regions, including the Mediterranean Travel to areas where Brucella is common Work in a meat-processing plant or slaughterhouse Work on a farm Brucellosis has also been reported in: Hunters in the U. S. Veterinarians who have immunized cattle with the Brucellavaccine General symptoms of brucellosis are often vague and similar to the flu. They may include: Fever (the most common symptom, with high "spikes" that usually occur in the afternoon) Back pain Body-wide aches and pains Poor appetite and weight loss Headache Night sweats Weakness Abdominal pain Cough Symptoms usually appear within five to 30 days after you come in contact with the bacteria.
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What does severe brucellosis cause?
Severe brucellosis may cause: Infection of the central nervous system Endocarditis (infection of the lining of the heart or valves) Liver abscess Brucellosis can cause long-lasting symptoms that are similar to systemic exertion intolerance disease.
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Who is more likely to get brucellosis?
You are more likely to get brucellosis if you: Eat or drink unpasteurized dairy products from cows, goats, or other animals that are infected with the bacteria Eat other unpasteurized cheeses called "village cheeses." These come from high-risk regions, including the Mediterranean Travel to areas where Brucella is common Work in a meat-processing plant or slaughterhouse Work on a farm Brucellosis has also been reported in: Hunters in the U. S. Veterinarians who have immunized cattle with the Brucellavaccine General symptoms of brucellosis are often vague and similar to the flu.
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What does the treatment for brucellosis involve?
Brucellosis can be difficult to treat. If you have brucellosis, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Antibiotics commonly used to treat brucellosis include: doxycycline ( Acticlate, Monodox, Vibra- Tabs, Vibramycin) streptomycin ciprofloxacin ( Cipro) or ofloxacin ( Floxin) rifampin ( Rifadin, Rimactane) sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim ( Bactrim) tetracycline ( Sumycin) You will generally be given doxycycline and rifampin a in combination for 6-8 weeks. You must take the antibiotics for many weeks to prevent the disease from returning. The rate of relapse following treatment is about 5-15% and usually occurs within the first six months after treatment.
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Which insurance companies provide coverage for intravenous steroid treatment?
Where you get IV steroid treatment may depend on your insurance coverage or what's available in your area.
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What are the common side effects of IV steroid treatment for multiple sclerosis?
Here are some possible, short-term side effects from taking steroids: Mood swings Swollen hands, ankles, or feet Bigger appetite Sleep problems like insomnia High blood pressure Upset stomach Cramps Back pain Headache Metallic taste in your mouth Flushed face Rash Heart palpitations Follow these tips to ease steroid side effects: Suck on hard candies or mints while you have your infusion to ease the metal taste.
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What medications are used to treat an acute attack of multiple sclerosis?
Dexamethasone ( Decadron) is another liquid steroid used to treat MS flares.
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What are the long-term side effects of IV steroid treatment for multiple sclerosis?
But these medications don't affect the long-term course of your MS.
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After treatment for multiple sclerosis, can I return to my daily activities?
The most common MS flare treatment is 1 gram of intravenous ( IV) methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol) daily for 3 to 5 days.
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Does insurance cover IV steroid treatment for multiple sclerosis?
Where you get IV steroid treatment may depend on your insurance coverage or what's available in your area.
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What steroid medications are used to treat multiple sclerosis?
Dexamethasone ( Decadron) is another liquid steroid used to treat MS flares.
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How do you know if a low-carb diet is right for you?
If you're considering a high-protein diet, check with your doctor or a nutritionist to see if it's OK for you. They can help you come up with a plan that will make sure you're getting enough fruits and vegetables, and that you're getting lean protein foods. Remember, weight loss that lasts is usually based on changes you can live with for a long time, not a temporary diet.
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What kind of sexual side effects can treatment for cervical cancer cause?
If you're getting chemotherapy for cervical cancer, you may notice a loss of libido or other sexual side effects like vaginal dryness during and after treatment. This is because chemotherapy causes your ovaries to suddenly stop producing estrogen. Your doctor can recommend estrogen replacement therapy or a topical estrogen cream. Radiation therapy in your pelvic area can damage your ovaries and change in your vaginal lining. Talk to your doctor about your treatment and whether he can recommend any specific strategies for preventing long-term side effects. Talking to your treatment team, your partner, and other cancer survivors can help you deal with the sexual changes you're experiencing and figure out ways to cope.
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What are the treatments for cervical cancer?
You and your doctor will decide what treatment is best for you, and it may include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or targeted therapy. And it could have side effects, including changes in your appetite or sense of taste, nausea, and weight loss or weight gain. Making good food choices during treatment can help you feel better, tolerate side effects, lower your chances of infection, and even heal faster.
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How can exercise help in treating cervical cancer?
Your treatment program may make you feel extra tired, and exercise probably seems impossible. But even doing a small amount can have tons of benefits. It can help you stay strong, improve your appetite and energy, and help you feel less stressed or depressed. Talk with your doctor to about what exercise makes sense for you, and pay attention to how you feel when moving your body. When your doctor approves it, and you're up for it, even adding 30 minutes of walking to your day can make a big difference in how you feel.
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What are examples of products that may contain asbestos?
Other items that may contain asbestos include: · Insulation in walls and attics · Vinyl tiles used for floors · Shingles · Siding on houses · Blankets that protect hot water pipes · Fabrics that resist heat · Car brakes The fibers that form asbestos separate very easily into tiny pieces when they're handled or damaged.
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How long does diarrhea last?
Diarrhea in an adult worsens or doesn't clear up after 2 or 3 days A child doesn't feel better after 24 hours
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What fluids are best for dehydration from diarrhea?
Here are some basic tips: Give an adult plenty of clear fluid, like fruit juices, soda, sports drinks and clear broth. Avoid milk or milk-based products, alcohol, apple juice, and caffeine while you have diarrhea and for 3 to 5 days after you get better. They may make diarrhea worse. Give a child or infant frequent sips of a rehydration solution such as Pedialyte, Cera Lyte, or Infalyte. Do not add salt tablets to a baby's bottle.
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What should you eat when you have diarrhea?
Ease Into Eating Feed an infant or child easily digested foods; the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast) is a good choice as soon as they can tolerate food. For an adult, add semisolid and low-fiber foods gradually as diarrhea stops. Avoid spicy, greasy, or fatty foods.
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What other problems can the flu lead to in children?
Those can include a sinus infection, ear infection, or pneumonia. Call the doctor if your child's fever lasts more than 3 to 4 days. Also call if she complains of trouble breathing, ear pain, a stuffy nose or head, a cough that won't go away, or she seems to be getting worse. Young children under age 2 -- even healthy children -- are more likely than older children to be hospitalized from the complications of the flu.
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What medications should not be used in children?
Don't give aspirin to children or teenagers. It can boost their risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare disorder that can harm their liver or cause brain damage. The FDA and drug makers say not to give over-the-counter cough and cold medicines to children under age 4. The American Academy of Pediatricians goes higher -- they warn against using them for children younger than 6. Talk to your doctor before you give your child one of these products.
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Do home remedies help children with the flu?
These treatments can help your kid feel better: Plenty of rest Plenty of liquids Using acetaminophen or ibuprofen to lower fever and ease aches -- you can get both in children's versions.
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How can I remove mucus in a very young and congested child?
If you have a very young child with congestion, use a nasal bulb to remove mucus. Or spray three drops of saline nasal spray into each nostril.
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Can kids take any medicine to shorten or prevent getting the flu?
If the doctor thinks your child is likely to have a complication from the flu, he may give her antiviral medicines like baloxavir marboxil ( Xofluza), oseltamivir ( Tamiflu) or zanamivir ( Relenza). They can help if she gets them in the first 2 days of getting sick. They may even shorten the flu by 1 or 2 days. In some cases, they can prevent it. They stop the virus from reproducing, so it can't spread. Still, the best way to prevent the flu is to get the vaccine. Antibiotic drugs don't work. They treat bacterial infections, and the flu is a viral infection.
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Which children are most at risk to have serious complications with the flu?
Some children are more likely to have serious complications with the flu. Talk to your doctor as soon as you know your child is sick if she's younger than 5 or has an ongoing (chronic) health condition like asthma or other lung disease, heart condition, or diabetes.
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What are symptoms of an alcohol allergy?
Symptoms of that include: Rashes Trouble breathing Stomach cramps Collapse Anaphylaxis, which is a severe reaction that can include a rapid, weak pulse, nausea, and vomiting. If you have this, swelling or trouble breathing, Call 911. If you have an alcohol allergy, it doesn't take much to trigger reactions. Two teaspoons of wine or a mouthful of beer may be enough.
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What are common allergens in alcoholic beverages?
Alcoholic beverages are made from complex mixtures of grains, chemicals, and preservatives that your body needs to break down. If your body can't do this well enough, you will have a reaction. Common allergens in alcoholic beverages include: Barley Egg protein (usually in wine) Gluten Grapes Histamines Hops Rye Seafood proteins Sodium metabisulphite Sulphites Wheat Yeast Red wine is more likely to cause a reaction than any other alcoholic drink.
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Does taking antidepressants make you weak?
Fact: Like medical conditions such as diabetes or high cholesterol, major depression is a condition that often responds to medication. When depression interferes with your ability to function normally, seeking treatment is not a sign of weakness. It's a sign of good self-care.
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Do antidepressants make you gain weight?
Fact: Like all drugs, antidepressants have side effects, and weight gain can be a common one of many of them. Some antidepressants may be more likely than others to cause weight gain; others may actually cause you to lose some weight. If this is a concern, talk with your doctor.
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Do antidepressants change your personality or turn you into a zombie?
Fact: When taken correctly, antidepressants will not change your personality. They will help you feel like yourself again and return to your previous level of functioning. ( If a person who isn't depressed takes antidepressants, they do not improve that person's mood or functioning - it's not a "happy pill.") Rarely, people experience apathy or loss of emotions while on certain antidepressants. When this happens, lowering the dose or switching to a different antidepressant may help.
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Do antidepressants affect your sex life?
Fact: Some antidepressants can have an effect on sex. The problem is usually in having an orgasm rather than a lack of desire. But because depression itself decreases libido, a medication that eases depression may improve your sex life. As with other side effects, certain antidepressants may be more likely than others to cause sexual problems.
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Are antidepressants covered by insurance?
Fact: Antidepressants are usually covered by insurance plans with prescription drug coverage. The cost of antidepressants varies widely, depending on the dosage, the drug you are taking, and whether it is available as a generic. Even without insurance coverage, it is possible to purchase a generic antidepressant for as little as $4 per month.
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Do you have to take antidepressants for the rest of your life?
Fact: Most people who take antidepressants for a first-time episode of depression need to take them continuously for six to nine months, not necessarily a lifetime. Once an antidepressant gets depression under control, you should work with your doctor to decide when to stop your medication and then decrease your dose gradually. Discontinuing them suddenly may cause problems such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
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Do antidepressants make you forget your problems rather than deal with them?
Fact: Antidepressants can't make you forget your problems, but they may make it easier for you to deal with them. Being depressed can distort your perception of your problems and sap you of the energy to address difficult issues. Many therapists report that when their patients take antidepressants, it helps them make more progress in psychotherapy.
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What are the signs that I should be tested for diabetes?
If you experience symptoms of severe increased thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, increased hunger, tingling of your hands or feet -- your doctor may run a test for diabetes.
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What are the signs of type 2 diabetes in children?
Many children have no symptoms before they are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Most of the time, diabetes is discovered when a blood or urine test taken for other health problems shows diabetes.
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When should you talk to your doctor about your child's risk for diabetes?
Talk to your doctor about your child's risk for diabetes. If your child's blood sugar tests are higher than normal, but not yet at the level of diabetes (called prediabetes), your doctor may instruct you in specific diet and exercise changes to help your child avoid getting diabetes altogether. Children with type 2 diabetes or prediabetes are almost always overweight or obese.
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How can the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes be confirmed?
To confirm the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, your doctor will order a fasting plasma glucose test or a casual plasma glucose.
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What levels on a casual plasma glucose test indicate diabetes ?
The Hb A1c level can also be used to diagnose diabetes if a value of equal to or greater than 6.5% is found.
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What do the results of the blood glucose test mean for your diabetes?
Normal fasting blood glucose -- or blood sugar -- is between 70 and 100 milligrams per deciliter or mg/d L for people who do not have diabetes. The standard diagnosis of diabetes is made when two separate blood tests show that your fasting blood glucose level is greater than or equal to 126 mg/d L. However, if you have normal fasting blood sugar, but you have risk factors for diabetes or symptoms of diabetes, your doctor may decide to do a glucose tolerance test (see below) to be sure that you do not have diabetes. Some people have a normal fasting blood sugar reading, but their blood sugar rapidly rises as they eat. These people may have impaired glucose tolerance. If their blood sugar levels are high enough, they may be diagnosed with diabetes.
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What do the results of the blood glucose test mean?
Normal fasting blood glucose -- or blood sugar -- is between 70 and 100 milligrams per deciliter or mg/d L for people who do not have diabetes. The standard diagnosis of diabetes is made when two separate blood tests show that your fasting blood glucose level is greater than or equal to 126 mg/d L. However, if you have normal fasting blood sugar, but you have risk factors for diabetes or symptoms of diabetes, your doctor may decide to do a glucose tolerance test (see below) to be sure that you do not have diabetes.
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What is the fasting plasma glucose test?
The fasting plasma glucose test ( FPG) is the preferred method for diagnosing diabetes, because it is easy to do, convenient, and less expensive than other tests, according to the American Diabetes Association.
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If my fasting blood glucose is normal, can I still be tested for diabetes?
The standard diagnosis of diabetes is made when two separate blood tests show that your fasting blood glucose level is greater than or equal to 126 mg/d L. However, if you have normal fasting blood sugar, but you have risk factors for diabetes or symptoms of diabetes, your doctor may decide to do a glucose tolerance test (see below) to be sure that you do not have diabetes.
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How do you prepare for the blood glucose test for diabetes?
Before taking the blood glucose test, you will not be allowed to eat anything for at least eight hours.
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How is diabetes diagnosed in children?
Many children have no symptoms before they are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Most of the time, diabetes is discovered when a blood or urine test taken for other health problems shows diabetes.
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What is the casual plasma glucose test for diabetes?
To confirm the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, your doctor will order a fasting plasma glucose test or a casual plasma glucose. The fasting plasma glucose test ( FPG) is the preferred method for diagnosing diabetes, because it is easy to do, convenient, and less expensive than other tests, according to the American Diabetes Association. Before taking the blood glucose test, you will not be allowed to eat anything for at least eight hours.
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How many people have diabetes in the U.S.?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, some 29 million children and adults in the U. S., or over 9% of the population, have diabetes today. Yet, millions of Americans are unaware that they have diabetes, because there may be no warning signs.
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How do I prepare for the blood glucose test?
Before taking the blood glucose test, you will not be allowed to eat anything for at least eight hours.
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What is a risky level of LDL (bad cholesterol) level?
Doctors recommend your total cholesterol stay below 200 mg/d L. Here is the breakdown: Total Cholesterol Category Less than 200 Desirable 200 - 239 Borderline high 240 and above High An LDL (bad cholesterol) level of 190 or above is considered a serious risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and other problems caused by clogged arteries.
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How much cholesterol is too much?
Doctors recommend your total cholesterol stay below 200 mg/d L. Here is the breakdown: Total Cholesterol Category Less than 200 Desirable 200 - 239 Borderline high 240 and above High An LDL (bad cholesterol) level of 190 or above is considered a serious risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and other problems caused by clogged arteries.
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What's the difference between "good" and "bad" cholesterol?
HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol is known as "good" cholesterol. HDL takes the "bad," LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol out of your blood and keeps it from building up in your arteries. LDL cholesterol is known as bad cholesterol because it leads to the development and build up of plaque on the walls of your arteries. That increase your chances of getting cardiovascular disease. When being tested for cholesterol, make sure you get numbers of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.
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What makes my cholesterol levels go up?
Eating foods such as red meat, whole milk dairy products, egg yolks, and some kinds of fish can make your cholesterol levels go up. Being overweight can make your bad cholesterol go up and your good cholesterol go down.
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How will your doctor assess the risk of your cholesterol level?
Your doctor will first work with you to determine your current level of risk, considering such things as your age, whether or not you smoke, and your blood pressure.
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What are high triglyceride levels?
Then together, the two of you will consider the options you have for achieving that percentage Triglyceride levels that are borderline high (150-199) or high (200 or more) may require treatment in some people.
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If a product's package reads "low cholesterol," does that mean it is low in fat?
Numerous foods marked "low cholesterol" can contain oils that may be high in saturated fats, which are not healthy. In addition, unsaturated fats like vegetable oil can also be high in calories.
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What can I do to lower my cholesterol levels?
You can lower your cholesterol levels by making changes to your lifestyle. Here are some tips. Eat foods with less fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol. Take off the skin and fat from meat, poultry, and fish. Eat food that has been broiled, baked, roasted, or poached instead of fried. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables everyday. Eat cereals, breads, rice, and pasta made from whole grains, such as whole wheat bread or spaghetti. Get at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise everyday. Talk to your doctor about the safest and best ways for you to exercise. Lose weight if you are overweight. Stop smoking. Take your cholesterol medication as prescribed by your doctor.
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Why should I be concerned about cholesterol?
Too much cholesterol in your body means that you have an increased risk of getting cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease. If you have too much cholesterol in your body, the cholesterol can build up inside the walls of the arteries that carry blood to your heart. This buildup, which occurs over time, causes less blood and oxygen to get to your heart. This can cause chest pain and heart attacks. Too much cholesterol can also increase your risk of stroke.
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How does the appetite suppressant drug naltrexone (Contrave) work?
It contains two medications and may affect the reward system in your brain, so eating certain foods that would normally make you feel good no longer do. It also works on the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that regulates appetite, temperature, and other functions.
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How does the appetite suppressant drug phentermine (Qsymia) work?
It's a combo of two drugs. Phentermine is a stimulant that makes you feel less hungry. Topiramate is a medicine used for seizures and headache, but as part of a combo with phentermine may make you feel less hungry and more full.
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How are warts and bacterial infections complications of hyperhidrosis?
Warts and bacterial infections.
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What is athlete's foot (tinea pedis) as a complication of hyperhidrosis?
Similar to jock itch, athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the feet. The fungus thrives in moist conditions. Athlete's foot often starts in between the toes, where excessive sweating may be severe.
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What are social and emotional complications of hyperhidrosis?
They avoid social and professional opportunities because of embarrassment. Many also report difficulties in their romantic lives because of excessive sweating.
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What is maceration as a complication of hyperhidrosis?
This is a fancy word for the mushy, wet appearance skin gets when it's continually moist. This general skin breakdown can lead to other skin conditions, which are usually mild.
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What is jock itch (tinea cruris) as a complication of hyperhidrosis?
This fungal infection takes hold in the folds of the groin. Heavy sweating creates a continuous moist environment that can make jock itch more likely.
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What is glucosamine?
There are two main types: hydrochloride and sulfate. The glucosamine in your body helps keep up the health of your cartilage -- the rubbery tissue that cushions bones at your joints. But as you get older, your levels of this compound begin to drop, which leads to the gradual breakdown of the joint.
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When is glucosamine useful?
Some studies show it gives relief for mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis, and it may work for other joints, too.
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How much glucosamine should you take?
Ask your doctor what he recommends for you. Some experts suggest you take it with meals to prevent an upset stomach.
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What does glucosamine do?
The glucosamine in your body helps keep up the health of your cartilage -- the rubbery tissue that cushions bones at your joints. But as you get older, your levels of this compound begin to drop, which leads to the gradual breakdown of the joint. There's some evidence that glucosamine sulfate supplements help counteract this effect, although experts aren't sure how.