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Who is more likely to get avoidant personality disorder?
Avoidant behavior may commonly be seen in children or adolescents, but a diagnosis of a personality disorder cannot be made in childhood because shyness, fear of strangers, social awkwardness, or being sensitive to criticism are often a normal part of child and adolescent development. A mental health professional can assess your symptoms, make an accurate diagnosis, and suggest the appropriate treatment options.
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What is recommended for an accurate diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults?
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, an adult must have persistent, current symptoms that date to childhood. ADHD symptoms continue as problems into adulthood for up to half of children with ADHD. For an accurate diagnosis, the following are recommended: A history of the adult's behavior as a child An interview with the adult's life partner, parent, close friend, or other close associate A thorough physical exam that may include neurological testing Psychological testing
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How is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosed in children?
The diagnosis involves gathering information from several sources, including schools, caregivers, and parents. The health care provider will consider how a child's behavior compares with that of other children the same age, and he or she may use standardized rating scales to document these behaviors.
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How is attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) diagnosed in adults?
Certain conditions that could mimic ADHD or cause the ADHD-like behaviors are: Recent major life changes (such as divorce, a death in the family, or a recent move) Undetected seizures Thyroid problems Sleep problems Anxiety Depression Lead toxicity It is not easy for a health care provider to diagnose ADHD in an adult. Sometimes, an adult will recognize the symptoms of ADHD in himself or herself when a son or daughter is diagnosed. Other times, they will seek professional help for themselves and find that their depression, anxiety, or other symptoms are related to ADHD.
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What are the symptoms of ADHD in children?
Some symptoms that suggest ADHD in children include inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. Many children with ADHD: Are in constant motion Squirm and fidget Make careless mistakes Often lose things Do not seem to listen Are easily distracted Do not finish tasks To diagnose ADHD, your child should also receive a full physical exam, including vision and hearing screenings.
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What problems may affect the lives of adults with ADHD?
In addition to symptoms of inattention and/or impulsiveness, adults with ADHD may have other problems, including: Chronic lateness and forgetfulness Anxiety Poor organizational skills Low self-esteem Employment problems Short temper Difficulty finishing a task Unthinking and immediate response; difficulty controlling behavior Restlessness If these difficulties are not managed appropriately, they can cause emotional, social, occupational and academic problems in adults.
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What tests are used to diagnose attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
Many children with ADHD: Are in constant motion Squirm and fidget Make careless mistakes Often lose things Do not seem to listen Are easily distracted Do not finish tasks To diagnose ADHD, your child should also receive a full physical exam, including vision and hearing screenings. Also, the FDA has approved the use of the Neuropsychiatric EEG- Based Assessment Aid ( NEBA) System, a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves. The theta/beta ratio has been shown to be higher in children and adolescents with ADHD than in children without it. The scan, approved for use in those aged 6 to 17 years, is meant to be used as a part of a complete medical and psychological exam. In addition, the health care provider should take a complete medical history to screen for other conditions that may affect a child's behavior.
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How is ADHD diagnosed in adults?
Certain conditions that could mimic ADHD or cause the ADHD-like behaviors are: Recent major life changes (such as divorce, a death in the family, or a recent move) Undetected seizures Thyroid problems Sleep problems Anxiety Depression Lead toxicity It is not easy for a health care provider to diagnose ADHD in an adult. Sometimes, an adult will recognize the symptoms of ADHD in himself or herself when a son or daughter is diagnosed. Other times, they will seek professional help for themselves and find that their depression, anxiety, or other symptoms are related to ADHD.
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What are the symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children?
Some symptoms that suggest ADHD in children include inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity. Many children with ADHD: Are in constant motion Squirm and fidget Make careless mistakes Often lose things Do not seem to listen Are easily distracted Do not finish tasks To diagnose ADHD, your child should also receive a full physical exam, including vision and hearing screenings.
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What is necessary to provide for ADHD diagnosis in adults?
In order to be diagnosed with ADHD, an adult must have persistent, current symptoms that date to childhood. ADHD symptoms continue as problems into adulthood for up to half of children with ADHD. For an accurate diagnosis, the following are recommended: A history of the adult's behavior as a child An interview with the adult's life partner, parent, close friend, or other close associate A thorough physical exam that may include neurological testing Psychological testing
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Is there a test for ADHD?
There is no single test used to diagnose ADHD. Experts diagnose ADHD after a person has shown some or all of the symptoms on a regular basis for more than six months and in more than one setting.
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What medical examinations help diagnose ADHD in children?
Many children with ADHD: Are in constant motion Squirm and fidget Make careless mistakes Often lose things Do not seem to listen Are easily distracted Do not finish tasks To diagnose ADHD, your child should also receive a full physical exam, including vision and hearing screenings. Also, the FDA has approved the use of the Neuropsychiatric EEG- Based Assessment Aid ( NEBA) System, a noninvasive scan that measures theta and beta brain waves. The theta/beta ratio has been shown to be higher in children and adolescents with ADHD than in children without it. The scan, approved for use in those aged 6 to 17 years, is meant to be used as a part of a complete medical and psychological exam.
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What other conditions do doctors screen for during a child's ADHD diagnosis?
Certain conditions that could mimic ADHD or cause the ADHD-like behaviors are: Recent major life changes (such as divorce, a death in the family, or a recent move) Undetected seizures Thyroid problems Sleep problems Anxiety Depression Lead toxicity It is not easy for a health care provider to diagnose ADHD in an adult.
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What conditions can mimic attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or cause attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-like behaviors?
Certain conditions that could mimic ADHD or cause the ADHD-like behaviors are: Recent major life changes (such as divorce, a death in the family, or a recent move) Undetected seizures Thyroid problems Sleep problems Anxiety Depression Lead toxicity It is not easy for a health care provider to diagnose ADHD in an adult.
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What other problems may adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have?
In addition to symptoms of inattention and/or impulsiveness, adults with ADHD may have other problems, including: Chronic lateness and forgetfulness Anxiety Poor organizational skills Low self-esteem Employment problems Short temper Difficulty finishing a task Unthinking and immediate response; difficulty controlling behavior Restlessness If these difficulties are not managed appropriately, they can cause emotional, social, occupational and academic problems in adults.
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What can I expect with prolonged exposure (PE) therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
It involves eight to 15 sessions, usually 90 minutes each. Early on in treatment, your therapist will teach you breathing techniques to ease your anxiety when you think about what happened. Later, you'll make a list of the things you've been avoiding and learn how to face them, one by one. In another session, you'll recount the traumatic experience to your therapist, then go home and listen to a recording of yourself. Doing this as "homework" over time may help ease your symptoms.
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What can I expect with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?
CPT is a 12-week course of treatment, with weekly sessions of 60-90 minutes. At first, you'll talk about the traumatic event with your therapist and how your thoughts related to it have affected your life. Then you'll write in detail about what happened. This process helps you examine how you think about your trauma and figure out new ways to live with it. For example, maybe you've been blaming yourself for something.
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What happens during a generalized seizure?
Sometimes these are referred to as grand mal seizures. The person experiencing such a seizure may cry out or make some sound, stiffen for several seconds to a minute and then have rhythmic movements of the arms and legs. Often the rhythmic movements slow before stopping. Eyes are generally open. The person may appear to not be breathing and actually turn blue. This may be followed by a period of deep, noisy breathes. The return to consciousness is gradual and the person may be confused for quite some time -- minutes to hours.
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When is immunotherapy used as a second treatment for lung cancer?
Immunotherapy as Second Treatment If you have late-stage lung cancer that hasn't responded to platinum-based chemotherapy or that has started to come back after chemo or other drug treatments, your doctor may suggest you try a checkpoint inhibitor.
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Why might you need two medications for cholesterol if you have a genetic form of high cholesterol?
Familial hypercholesterolemia ( FH) is a condition that causes very high levels of cholesterol -- so high that one drug and lifestyle changes won't do enough. People with FH usually take a statin and one or two other drugs.
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Why might you need two medications for cholesterol if your statin hasn't helped?
Statins are a mainstay of cholesterol treatment. But they don't work well enough for everyone who takes them. If that's the case for you, your doctor might recommend that you add another medicine to your treatment.
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What will your doctor consider along with your chances for heart disease when choosing a cholesterol treatment?
Along with your chances for heart disease, your doctor also will consider: Other medical conditions you have Side effects of the medication How much it costs Other medications you're taking What you feel comfortable with Different drugs work in different ways.
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Why might you need two medications for cholesterol if you can't take a statin?
The pills aren't safe for people with liver disease or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Doctors will rely on other types of drugs to lower cholesterol.
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What drugs might your doctor recommend if your LDL cholesterol level is too high?
If your LDL levels are too high, your doctor might recommend: Statins,including atorvastatin ( Lipitor), fluvastatin ( Lescol), lovastatin ( Altoprev, Mevacor), pravastatin ( Pravachol), rosuvastatin calcium ( Crestor), simvastatin ( Flolipid, Zocor), or pitavastatin ( Livalo) Resins, also called bile acid sequestrants, like cholestyramine ( Locholest, Prevalite, Questran), colesevelam ( Wel Chol), and colestipol ( Colestid) Nicotinic acid (niacin).
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What drugs can lower triglycerides?
Omega-3 fatty acids.
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When should I have someone call 911 when I'm giving CPR?
Collapses Becomes unresponsive Tap the person's shoulder and shout, " Are you OK?"
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What are some additional symptoms of subdural hematoma?
Symptoms of subdural hematoma can include: Headache Confusion Change in behavior Dizziness Nausea and vomiting Lethargy or excessive drowsiness Weakness Apathy Seizures People may vary widely in their symptoms of subdural hematoma.
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How is subdural hematoma diagnosed?
People who come to medical attention after a head injury often undergo head imaging, usually with computed tomography ( CT scan) or magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI scan). These tests create images of the interior of the skull, usually detecting any subdural hematoma present. MRI is slightly superior to CT in detecting subdural hematoma, but CT is faster and more readily available. Rarely, angiography may be used to diagnose subdural hematoma. During angiography (angiogram), a catheter is inserted through an artery in the groin and threaded into the arteries of he neck and brain. Special dye is then injected, and an X-ray screen shows blood flow through the arteries and veins.
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What techniques are used to treat subdural hematomas?
More severe or dangerous subdural hematomas require surgery to reduce the pressure on the brain. Surgeons can use various techniques to treat subdural hematomas: Burr hole trephination. A hole is drilled in the skull over the area of the subdural hematoma, and the blood is suctioned out through the hole. Craniotomy. A larger section of the skull is removed, to allow better access to the subdural hematoma and reduce pressure. The removed skull is replaced shortly after the procedure. Craniectomy. A section of the skull is removed for an extended period of time, to allow the injured brain to expand and swell without permanent damage. Craniectomy is not often used to treat subdural hematoma. People with severe subdural hematomas are often seriously ill, requiring machine-supported breathing and other forms of life support.
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What causes a subdural hematoma?
Subdural hematoma is usually caused by a head injury, such as from a fall, motor vehicle collision, or an assault. The sudden blow to the head tears blood vessels that run along the surface of the brain. This is referred to as an acute subdural hematoma. People with a bleeding disorder and people who take blood thinners are more likely to develop a subdural hematoma. A relatively minor head injury can cause subdural hematoma in people with a bleeding tendency. In a chronic subdural hematoma, small veins on the outer surface of the brain may tear, causing bleeding in the subdural space. Symptoms may not be apparent for several days or weeks. Elderly people are at higher risk for chronic subdural hematoma because brain shrinkage causes these tiny veins to be more stretched and more vulnerable to tearing.
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What are the symptoms of subdural hematoma?
Symptoms of subdural hematoma depend mostly on the rate of bleeding: In head injuries with sudden, severe bleeding causing a subdural hematoma, a person may lose consciousness and become comatose immediately. A person may appear normal for days after a head injury, but slowly become confused and then unconscious several days later. This results from a slower rate of bleeding, causing a slowly enlarging subdural hematoma. In very slow-growing subdural hematomas, there may be no noticeable symptoms for more than two weeks after the bleeding starts. Symptoms of subdural hematoma can include: Headache Confusion Change in behavior Dizziness Nausea and vomiting Lethargy or excessive drowsiness Weakness Apathy Seizures People may vary widely in their symptoms of subdural hematoma.
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How are subdural hematomas treated?
Treatment of subdural hematomas depends on their severity. Treatment can range from watchful waiting to brain surgery. In small subdural hematomas with mild symptoms, doctors may recommend no specific treatment other than observation. Repeated head imaging tests are often performed to monitor whether the subdural hematoma is improving.
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What is used to improve blood clotting caused by subdural hematomas?
If a person has a bleeding problem or is taking blood thinners, measures should be taken to improve blood clotting. This may include giving medicines or blood products, and reversal of any blood thinners, when possible. Other medications to help reduce swelling or pressure in the brain or control seizures may also be used.
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Are low-tar or filtered cigarettes better for you than regular ones?
And don't be fooled by low-tar or filtered cigarettes -- they don't make a difference. The more cigarettes you smoke a day, no matter what kind, the higher your chances of having lung cancer. The number of years you smoke has an even bigger effect. So the sooner you quit, the better.
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Can you improve your health if you quit smoking?
Within just hours of your last cigarette, your health starts to get better. And if you quit, after a few years, your odds of getting cancer, heart disease, and other illnesses start to drop.
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What are statistics on smoking and lung cancer?
If you're a numbers person, consider: Tobacco smoke has about 250 harmful chemicals, and at least 69 of them can cause cancer. Men who smoke are 23 times more likely to get lung cancer, and women who do are 13 times more likely than nonsmokers. In the U. S., lung cancer from smoking causes 130,000 deaths a year, and another 7,300 people die from lung cancer caused by secondhand smoke. People who don't smoke are 20% to 30% more likely to get lung cancer if they live or work around secondhand smoke.
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How does secondhand smoke affect your lungs?
Secondhand smoke comes in two forms: Mainstream smoke that the smoker breathes out Sidestream smoke that comes from the burning cigarette or cigar With secondhand smoke, you breathe in the same chemicals as the person who's smoking, and they have the same effect. It doesn't matter to your lungs how the smoke gets there -- it can cause lung cancer either way. There's no safe amount of secondhand smoke. Even a little is bad for you. Just as with smoking, the more secondhand smoke you take in and the longer you're around it, the higher your risk of lung cancer. Living with a smoker can raise your chances by as much as 30%.
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Can rewarding yourself help you quit smoking?
Reward yourself: Quitting is hard work -- give yourself a treat when you meet a goal or resist a craving.
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How can keeping busy help you quit smoking?
Keep busy: When cravings come on, it helps to have something to distract you. From knitting to woodworking, you're less likely to light up if you can keep your hands busy.
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What are the two forms of secondhand smoke?
Secondhand smoke comes in two forms: Mainstream smoke that the smoker breathes out Sidestream smoke that comes from the burning cigarette or cigar With secondhand smoke, you breathe in the same chemicals as the person who's smoking, and they have the same effect.
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What are vaping devices?
With vaping, you don't get tar, carbon monoxide, or many other harmful substances you get with regular cigarettes. But you typically still get nicotine, the chemical that makes them so addictive. Generally, it seems that e-cigarettes and things like them are safer than smoking, but that doesn't mean they're safe.
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Can support and talking to your doctor help you quit smoking?
Find support: It's tough to kick the habit alone, but others can help -- a good friend, a loved one, or a support group, for example. Talk to your doctor: She can suggest medicine or programs that might work for you.
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Can making a list of reasons why you want to quit smoking help you kick the habit?
Make a list of reasons to quit: Saving money, whiter teeth, more energy -- whatever your reasons, make a list of them and read it every day.
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Can marijuana lead to lung cancer?
Because it's been illegal, it's been hard to do research on it. Like tobacco, it does have tar and other chemicals known to cause cancer. So while there could be a link between smoking marijuana and lung cancer, there's not enough research to know for sure.
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When should you call the doctor about problems after you have a hysteroscopy?
Just like any medical procedure, you could have some complications from a hysteroscopy, including: Problems from the anesthesia Infection Tearing or damage to your cervix, though this is rare Problems with gas or fluid from the uterus Damage to nearby organs like the bladder, bowel, or ovaries Pelvic inflammatory disease If you experience symptoms like a fever, severe abdominal pain, or heavy bleeding after the procedure, call your doctor immediately or go to the emergency room.
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How is a hysteroscopy done?
A hysteroscopy can either be in a hospital or at your doctor's office. You can be either awake or under general anesthesia during the procedure. If you're awake, your doctor will give you medicine to help you relax. She'll also use medication or tools called dilators to help open your cervix. She'll likely use a tool called a speculum to keep your vagina open. If you've ever had a Pap smear, your doctor has probably used one during that procedure, too. Next, she'll gently insert the hysteroscope through the cervix into your uterus. Then she'll push gas or a liquid-like saline through the hysteroscope into your uterus to expand it. This will give her a clear view of its lining and the opening of your fallopian tubes through the hysteroscope.
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What will happen during a hysteroscopy?
During a hysteroscopy, your doctor inserts a hysteroscope -- a thin tube with light on the end -- into your vagina. She'll be able to see into your cervix and inside your uterus. If she finds anything abnormal, she can take a sample for later testing.
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What are the advantages of taking Depo-Provera?
In addition to preventing pregnancy, this medication has other benefits: You don't have to remember to take it every day or use it before sex. It provides long-term protection as long as you get the shot every 3 months. It's highly effective. You get birth control without having to take estrogen.
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Can I get pregnant after I stop using Depo-Provera?
But it takes some women up to a year or two to conceive after they stop using this type of birth control. This time frame doesn't seem to be linked to how long you got the shots.
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How soon does Depo-Provera work?
Depo- Provera starts to work as birth control immediately if you get it within the first 5 days of your menstrual period.
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Can any woman use Depo-Provera?
It's OK for most women. But you shouldn't get it if you have: Unexplained vaginal bleeding Liver disease Breast cancer Blood clots Your doctor will be cautious about giving it to you if you're a teenager, or if you have: Diabetes A history of depression A history of heart attack or stroke Osteoporosis or a high risk for it They can include: Irregular menstrual periods, or no periods at all Headaches Nervousness Depression Dizziness Acne Changes in appetite Weight gain Unwanted facial and body hair Hair loss Loss of bone mineral density Belly pain Bloating Breakthrough bleeding Fatigue Less interest in sex Weakness Changes to your menstrual cycle are the most common side effects.
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What are the side effects of Depo-Provera?
But you shouldn't get it if you have: Unexplained vaginal bleeding Liver disease Breast cancer Blood clots Your doctor will be cautious about giving it to you if you're a teenager, or if you have: Diabetes A history of depression A history of heart attack or stroke Osteoporosis or a high risk for it They can include: Irregular menstrual periods, or no periods at all Headaches Nervousness Depression Dizziness Acne Changes in appetite Weight gain Unwanted facial and body hair Hair loss Loss of bone mineral density Belly pain Bloating Breakthrough bleeding Fatigue Less interest in sex Weakness Changes to your menstrual cycle are the most common side effects. You may have irregular bleeding or spotting. After a year of use, about 50% of women will stop getting their periods. If this happens to you, your period should come back when you stop getting the shots. Long-term use of Depo- Provera may lead to loss of bone mineral density, which makes you more likely to get osteoporosis. Your chances are even higher if you've taken the shot for longer than 2 years, especially if osteoporosis runs in your family, you drink a lot, you smoke, or you have other risk factors for the condition.
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What are the risks of fluoride use?
Fluoride is safe and effective when used as directed but can be hazardous at high doses (the "toxic" dosage level varies based on an individual's weight). For this reason, it's important for parents to carefully supervise their children's use of fluoride-containing products and to keep fluoride products out of reach of children, especially children under the age of 6. In addition, excess fluoride can cause defects in the tooth's enamel that range from barely noticeable white specks or streaks to cosmetically objectionable brown discoloration. These defects are known as fluorosis and occur when the teeth are forming -- usually in children younger than 6 years.
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What should you know about fluoride?
Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay by making the tooth more resistant to acid attacks from plaque bacteria and sugars in the mouth. It also reverses early decay. In children under 6 years of age, fluoride becomes incorporated into the development of permanent teeth, making it difficult for acids to demineralize the teeth. Fluoride also helps speed remineralization as well as disrupts acid production in already erupted teeth of both children and adults.
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What are the different forms of fluoride?
As mentioned, fluoride is found in foods and in water. It can also be directly applied to the teeth through fluoridated toothpastes and mouth rinses. Mouth rinses containing fluoride in lower strengths are available over-the-counter; stronger concentrations require a doctor's prescription. A dentist in his or her office can also apply fluoride to the teeth as a gel, foam, or varnish. These treatments contain a much higher level of fluoride than the amount found in toothpastes and mouth rinses. Varnishes are painted on the teeth; foams are put into a mouth guard, which is applied to the teeth for one to four minutes; gels can be painted on or applied via a mouth guard. Fluoride supplements are also available as liquids and tablets and must be prescribed by your dentist, pediatrician, or family doctor.
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What should you keep in mind when using fluoride?
Keep in mind, however, that it's very difficult to reach hazardous levels given the low levels of fluoride in home-based fluoride-containing products. Nonetheless, if you do have concerns or questions about the amount of fluoride you or your child may be receiving, talk to your child's dentist, pediatrician, or family doctor.
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Does a home water treatment system affect the level of fluoride in my drinking water?
The amount of fluoride you receive in your drinking water depends on the type of home water treatment system used. Steam distillation systems remove 100% of fluoride content. Reverse osmosis systems remove between 65% and 95% of the fluoride. On the other hand, water softeners and charcoal/carbon filters generally do not remove fluoride. One exception: some activated carbon filters contain activated alumina that may remove over 80% of the fluoride.
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How can I find out how much fluoride is in my tap water?
To find out how much fluoride is in your tap water, ask your local dentist, contact your local or state health department, or contact your local water supplier. Information for contacting your local water supplier should be on your water bill or see the "local government" section of your phone book.
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Am I missing out on the benefits of fluoride if I drink bottled water?
Even though there are no scientific studies to suggest that people who drink bottled water are at increased risk of tooth decay, the American Dental Association ( ADA) says that such people could be missing out on the decay-preventing effects of optimally fluoridated water available from their community water source.
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Can sleeping upright help an ear infection?
While it may sound strange, resting or sleeping sitting up rather than lying down can encourage fluid in your ear to drain. This could ease pressure and pain in your middle ear. Prop yourself up in bed with a stack of pillows, or sleep in an armchair that's a bit reclined.
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How can chewing gum help with ear pain?
If you're on an airplane or driving at high altitudes and your ear pain is from the change in air pressure, chew some gum. It can help lower that pressure and ease your symptoms.
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Should you treat your ear pain at home?
While research that says home remedies work for ear pain is scarce, most doctors agree these treatments are safe to try at home. Still, before you do, it's a good idea to talk with your doctor. Some options include: A cool or warm compress.
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When should you call a doctor about ear pain?
It's important to know when your discomfort might be a sign of something more serious. Call your doctor if: You notice fluid (such as pus or blood) oozing out of your ear You have a high fever, headache, or are dizzy You believe an object is stuck in your ear You see swelling behind your ear, especially if that side of your face feels weak or you can't move the muscles there You've had severe ear pain and it suddenly stops (which could mean a ruptured eardrum) Your symptoms don't get better (or get worse) in 24 to 48 hours
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What signs and symptoms of an ear infection should I call my doctor about?
It's important to know when your discomfort might be a sign of something more serious. Call your doctor if: You notice fluid (such as pus or blood) oozing out of your ear You have a high fever, headache, or are dizzy You believe an object is stuck in your ear You see swelling behind your ear, especially if that side of your face feels weak or you can't move the muscles there You've had severe ear pain and it suddenly stops (which could mean a ruptured eardrum) Your symptoms don't get better (or get worse) in 24 to 48 hours
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What can I take for pain because of an ear infection?
Try a pain reliever. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen can often relieve the pain of an earache. Ask your doctor which is right for you.
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Can you treat an ear infection at home?
Still, it's helpful to know how you can treat ear pain at home. While research that says home remedies work for ear pain is scarce, most doctors agree these treatments are safe to try at home. Still, before you do, it's a good idea to talk with your doctor.
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How can sleeping upright help with ear pain?
While it may sound strange, resting or sleeping sitting up rather than lying down can encourage fluid in your ear to drain. This could ease pressure and pain in your middle ear. Prop yourself up in bed with a stack of pillows, or sleep in an armchair that's a bit reclined.
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Which pain relievers should you use for ear pain?
Ask your doctor which is right for you.
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Can a preventative mastectomy prevent breast cancer?
A preventive mastectomy might also be considered if the woman has the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutation that increases her risk of developing breast cancer, a strong family history of breast cancer, a diagnosis of lobular carcinoma in situ ( LCIS), a family history of breast cancer, or history of radiation to the chest before age 30. A recent study suggests that prophylactic mastectomy may reduce the risk of breast cancer by up to 100% if there is a strong family history of breast cancer or a BRCA genetic mutation. However, risk reduction results vary widely for many reasons. In some studies, women had prophylactic mastectomies for non-high risk reasons, such as pain, fibrocystic breast disease, dense breast tissue, cancer phobia, or a family history of breast cancer.
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Who should have a preventative mastectomy?
According to the National Cancer Institute, only those women who are at very high risk of breast cancer should consider preventive mastectomy. This includes women with one or more of the following risk factors: BRCA or certain other gene mutations Strong family history of breast cancer Previous cancer in one breast and high risk of developing breast cancer in the opposite breast History of lobular carcinoma in situ ( LCIS) plus family history of breast cancer History of radiation to the chest before age 30 Preventive mastectomy should only be considered after you've received the appropriate genetic and psychological counseling to discuss the psychosocial impacts of the procedure.
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How much do I need to exercise to improve diabetes?
Quick Gym- Free Workouts Anything that gets your heart pumping and makes you break a sweat will do. You don't need a health club membership or personal trainer. And here's a little secret: You don't have to do 30 minutes all at once. Ten minutes in the morning, 10 minutes in the afternoon, and 10 minutes after dinner is just fine.
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How can exercise help with diabetes?
Exercise With Diabetes: Tips for Working Out You may have heard exercise helps you burn extra sugar in your body and that it can make your body more sensitive to insulin, which is a good thing. It's true! Exercise can also bust stress and boost your mood and overall health.
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What are some tips for exercising with diabetes?
Exercise Safely Get your doctor's OK before starting an exercise program. Make sure your doctor reviews your diabetes drugs. Carry at least 15 grams of a fast-acting carbohydrate in case of low blood sugar. It might be a half-cup of fruit juice or glucose tablets or gels that equal 15 grams. Wear well-fitting shoes that are for the activity you're doing, and choose athletic polyester socks. They dry quicker and cause less friction than all-cotton socks. Inspect your feet before and after exercise. Check for blisters or sores. Drink plenty of fluid before, during, and after exercise. Wear a medical ID bracelet or carry a medical ID in your pocket. Check your blood sugar level before and after exercise to make sure it's in your target range. Your doctor can tell you what it should be before you start exercising. This is very important if you take insulin. After an intense workout or exercising for a long time, you may want to eat something with at least 15 grams of carbohydrates within 2 hours. This will help you avoid low blood sugar. If you become shaky, anxious, or more sweaty than usual, or feel a change in your heartbeat, stop exercising right away and check your blood sugar. If it is low, follow your doctor's advice about how to treat it. Always warm up for 5 to 10 minutes at the start of your workout. For instance, walk or bike slowly. Do 5 to 10 minutes of cool-down and gentle stretching at the end.
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How can I sneak activity into my daily life to improve diabetes?
Try to sneak activity into your day when and where you can: When doing work around the house, pump up some fun music and make all your movements bigger. Squat while you work: Bend from the hips and knees like you're sitting down in a chair. Make sure your knees don't go farther forward than your toes. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. If you're going to a high floor, get off a couple of floors below and climb the rest of the way. Don't call or email your colleagues at work. Walk over to a co-worker's desk for a face-to-face. Walk or pace when you're on the phone, at home, or at work. Park your car at the far end of the parking lot.
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What is the link between sleep habits and diabetes?
While diet and obesity are big contributors to your odds of having diabetes, studies have found that sleep habits are, too, probably because over time, they can affect how well your cells respond to insulin. In one study, more than 4,000 people reported the amount of sleep they got each night. Those who got less than 6 hours were twice as likely to have cells that were less sensitive to insulin or to have full-blown diabetes. This was true even after the researchers took other lifestyle habits into account. Other sleep disruptions and disorders, such as sleep apnea, also seem to raise a person's odds of having diabetes. But the risk goes up at the other end of the spectrum, too. For reasons that aren't clear, people who sleep too much -- more than 9 hours a night -- might also have higher chances of getting diabetes.
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How does lack of sleep affect your blood sugar?
It's hard to know for certain. Many studies have suggested that short sleepers (those who get less than 6 hours per night) have irregular eating habits, snack more, and are more likely to eat unhealthy foods. Other research has found that shortchanging sleep can directly affect how the body makes other hormones, which in turn affect blood sugar. For example, when you stay up late, your body makes more of the hormone cortisol, which affects how insulin works. Also, growing evidence shows that disrupting your body's biological clock ( AKA your circadian rhythm) by being awake at night can make your cells more resistant to insulin. In one study, researchers altered the circadian rhythms of 16 healthy volunteers by allowing only 5 hours of sleep each night for 5 nights, much like a sleep-deprived workweek. When those volunteers ate food at night -- a time when the body isn't biologically prepared for a spike in blood sugar -- their bodies didn't use insulin normally.
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How can you manage working at night to keep blood sugar in balance?
And get some exercise during your breaks, like short walks or stretches. If you're concerned about your blood sugar: Getting a good night's sleep on a regular basis will go a long way toward helping your body use insulin efficiently. Along with getting enough sleep, avoid eating late at night, and try to get some exercise after dinner, like going for a walk. If you have diabetes: If your blood sugar is often too high in the morning, talk to your doctor.
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What can you do to keep a good blood sugar balance if you have diabetes?
If you have diabetes: If your blood sugar is often too high in the morning, talk to your doctor. You may need to do some extra blood sugar testing or use a continuous glucose monitor to figure out what's going on, which will determine how you should handle it. Your doctor may suggest a tweak to your diabetes medicines or your exercise routine.
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What kinds of foods may have sulfites?
Examples of foods that may contain sulfites include: Baked goods Soup mixes Jams Canned vegetables Pickled foods Gravies Dried fruit Potato chips Trail mix Beer and wine Vegetable juices Sparkling grape juice Apple cider Bottled lemon juice and lime juice Tea Many condiments Molasses Fresh or frozen shrimp Guacamole Maraschino cherries Dehydrated, pre-cut, or peeled potatoes Ingredients with sulfite to look for on food labels include: Sulfur dioxide Potassium bisulfite or potassium metabisulfite Sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, or sodium sulfite
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Which ingredients with sulfite should you look out for on food labels?
Examples of foods that may contain sulfites include: Baked goods Soup mixes Jams Canned vegetables Pickled foods Gravies Dried fruit Potato chips Trail mix Beer and wine Vegetable juices Sparkling grape juice Apple cider Bottled lemon juice and lime juice Tea Many condiments Molasses Fresh or frozen shrimp Guacamole Maraschino cherries Dehydrated, pre-cut, or peeled potatoes Ingredients with sulfite to look for on food labels include: Sulfur dioxide Potassium bisulfite or potassium metabisulfite Sodium bisulfite, sodium metabisulfite, or sodium sulfite
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Should I get mold in my house tested?
That's up to you, but the CDC doesn't recommend it. Mold is everywhere, and there aren't guidelines for safe levels of it. If you have mold, it's best to get rid of it no matter what kind it is. It can make you sick and damage your home.
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Can mold make you sick?
Allergies are the most common health problem that mold causes. You may get symptoms like: Coughing Itchy, irritated eyes Sneezing Stuffy or runny nose Wheezing Mold can also trigger an asthma attack.
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What is toxic mold?
But if you have a long-term lung condition or a weak immune system, it can lead to more serious issues, such as: Aspergillosis, an infection that causes chest pain and trouble breathing Pneumonia, where you get swelling in the air sacs of your lungs Pneumonitis, where your immune system attacks your lung cells and causes swelling Some molds do make toxins, but scientists don't actually call them “toxic” molds. That name came more from the news than science. Two of the more well-known types are Stachybotrys and Aspergillus.
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Is there any link between mold and lung cancer?
The only possible link is this: Mold can cause pulmonary fibrosis ( PF), which is scarring in your lungs. If you have PF for a long time, it can make you more likely to get lung cancer. But most of the time, people don't know how they got PF, and mold isn't a leading cause. So even this possibility isn't strong.
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What can mold lead to?
But if you have a long-term lung condition or a weak immune system, it can lead to more serious issues, such as: Aspergillosis, an infection that causes chest pain and trouble breathing Pneumonia, where you get swelling in the air sacs of your lungs Pneumonitis, where your immune system attacks your lung cells and causes swelling Some molds do make toxins, but scientists don't actually call them “toxic” molds.
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If I have Crohn's disease, should I talk to my doctor before taking vitamin supplements?
Don't make the supplements decision by yourself. Talk to your doctor first. While they can help you be better nourished, some can affect the way your Crohn's drugs work or make your symptoms worse. Your doctor may want to test your levels of iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and other vitamins and minerals. What you need may also depend on where the damage is in your intestines. Together, you can decide which supplements could help you feel better.
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What are the symptoms of hepatitis C in its early stages?
The symptoms are similar to those of the flu, but you might not have symptoms at all. If you do, they may include: Belly pain Clay-colored poop Dark urine Fatigue Fever Jaundice (yellow tint to your skin or eyes) Joint pain Poor appetite Nausea Vomiting Symptoms usually show up between 2 and 12 weeks after exposure to the virus.
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What are signs of cirrhosis in people with hepatitis C?
Some people who've had it for a while get liver cancer or scarring of the liver, which is called cirrhosis. In addition to the above symptoms, signs that your liver isn't working the way it should include: Ascites -- fluid buildup in your belly Easy bleeding Easy bruising Hepatic encephalopathy -- confusion, drowsiness, and slurred speech Hives or rashes Itchy skin Spider angiomas -- spidery blood vessels under your skin Swollen legs Weight loss You could get scarring of the liver, called cirrhosis, after you've had hepatitis C for 20 or 30 years. If you have it, you might: Retain water Bleed and bruise easily Notice skin and eyes turning yellow with jaundice No.
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How are clinical trials used to treat lung cancer?
Clinical trials are a way to try new medications and treatments that researchers are testing. The goal is to find out how well these treatments work and what side effects they could have. People with lung cancer who participate in lung cancer clinical trials get the most effective therapy that's already available, or they may receive new lung cancer treatments that are being tested for future use.
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What is CenterWatch?
Center Watch This web site lists industry-sponsored clinical trials that are recruiting patients.
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What is Trial Check?
Trial Check This website, developed by the nonprofit Coalition of Cancer Cooperative Groups, is the leading cancer clinical trial search engine. You can search for cancer trials based on disease and location.
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What is ClinicalTrials.gov?
Clinical Trials.gov This website, a service of the National Institutes of Health, is a database of clinical studies worldwide.
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Where can I get more information about clinical trials?
You can ask your doctor to help you find a clinical trial, what's involved, and what to consider -- for instance, if you'd need to travel to take part. You can also check these websites for information.
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What is the National Cancer Institute?
National Cancer Institute This website lists more than 6,000 cancer clinical trials and explains what to do when you find one that you think is right for you.
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How do you get corneal diseases?
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped "window" at the front of your eye. It helps to focus the light that comes in. Disease, infection, injury, and exposure to toxins can damage it.
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How does glaucoma affect you?
A common form is primary open angle glaucoma. Most people who have it don't have early symptoms or pain. So it's important to keep up with your regular eye exams.
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When does presbyopia happen?
This happens when you lose the ability, despite good distance vision, to clearly see close objects and small print. After age 40 or so, you may have to hold a book or other reading material farther away from your eyes to make it easier to read.
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What does it mean when you have corneal diseases?
The cornea is the clear, dome-shaped "window" at the front of your eye. It helps to focus the light that comes in. Disease, infection, injury, and exposure to toxins can damage it. Signs include: Red eyes Watery eyes Pain Reduced vision, or a halo effect The main treatment methods include: A new eyeglasses or contacts prescription Medicated eye drops Surgery Your eyelids do a lot for you.
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How can you treat vision changes as you get older?
As you get older, you may find that you can't see as well as you once did. That's normal. You'll probably need glasses or contacts. You may choose to have surgery ( LASIK) to correct your vision. If you already have glasses, you may need a stronger prescription.
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When should you see an eye doctor about problems with contact lenses?
If you do everything right and still have problems with your contacts, see your eye doctor. You might have allergies, dry eyes, or just be better off with glasses. Once you know what the problem is, you can decide what's best for you.