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Who can get palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?
But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.
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What causes palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?
The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.
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What can you do to manage palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?
Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.
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How are topical steroids used to treat palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?
These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain.
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Is there a link beteween palmoplantar pustolisis and smoking?
The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.
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What things can I do to treat palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?
Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.
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How is palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) diagnosed?
To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.
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How are acitretin tablets used to treat palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?
Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.
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Is there a link between palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) and psoriasis?
As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.
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What are the treatments for palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?
The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.
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What should I do if I have blisters or cracks on the palms of my hands or soles of my feet?
Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.
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What is palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)?
Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.
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Which adults should get the MMR vaccine?
The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.
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Should someone ever get more than one dose of the MMR vaccine?
The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.
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What's in the MMR vaccine?
Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.
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What side effects can the MMR vaccine cause?
A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.
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Who should avoid the MMR vaccine?
Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.
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Which diseases are covered by the MMR vaccine?
The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.
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Who does not need to get the MMR vaccine?
The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.
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Why do adults need the MMR vaccine?
And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Rubella ( German measles).
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Do spermicides help prevent HIV and other STDs?
This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs. If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor. Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs.
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What are spermicides?
Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg. The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9).
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How effective are spermicides?
Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy.
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What is birth control?
Some condoms have spermicide. Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs.
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What causes skier's thumb?
A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament. A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force. However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity. Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel.
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What is the surgery for skier's thumb?
If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed. After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals. You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion. If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast. Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off.
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What are symptoms of skier's thumb?
These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible.
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Should I see a doctor about skier's thumb?
Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.)
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Are there home treatments for skier's thumb?
How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.
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How can I prevent getting skier's thumb?
If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.
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How is skier's thumb treated?
If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.
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How can human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) affect tuberculosis?
When your immune system is weak, TB germs can multiply and cause symptoms. Someone infected with both HIV and TB is at least 10 times more likely to develop active TB, especially when their CD4 count is under 200. Regardless of your CD4 count, having both infections also means you have AIDS, the advanced stage of HIV. Worldwide, TB is a leading cause of death for people with HIV.
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How do drugs for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) interact?
To treat active tuberculosis, you'll take a combination of drugs for several months that commonly include: Ethambutol, or EMB ( Myambutol) Isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid) Pyrazinamide, or PZA ( Tebrazid) Rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin) Drugs for HIV and for TB don't always work well together. Your doctor will decide which combination of medications will be best for you. If you have active TB, your TB must be treated immediately. If you are already on ART, your doctor may have to adjust your HIV drugs. If you are not already on ART, your doctor will decide how soon you should start ART.
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What are some other symptoms someone with migraines may feel?
There are still more ways you might feel when you get a migraine. Some things to watch out for: Increased appetite Sweating or cold hands Pale facial color Drowsiness or depression Restlessness Sense of well-being Surge of energy Excessive yawning No matter how you feel, it's a good idea to keep a diary of your symptoms. Take it with you when you see your doctor so you can give him an accurate update on what's been going on. It will help him make the right diagnosis and put you on the road to relief.
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What should I do if my prescribed medications are not treating my atrial fibrillation (AFib)?
Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.
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If I am treating atrial fibrillation (AFib), will I need to take blood-thinning medicine before starting a heart rhythm medicine?
You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.
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What other blood pressure medications are used to treat atrial fibrillation (AFib)?
These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.
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How can I be prescribed heart rhythm medications to treat my atrial fibrillation (AFib)?
Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.
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I am treating my atrial fibrillation (AFib), what are my options for heart rhythm medications?
Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.
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I am treating atrial fibrillation (AFib), can blood thinning medications increase my chances of bleeding?
Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.
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What are my options of blood thinning medicines to treat my atrial fibrillation (AFib)?
Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.
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Is blood pressure medication used to treat atrial fibrillation (AFib)?
One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.
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What are the side effects of calcium channel blockers when treating atrial fibrillation (AFib)?
Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.
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What are the side effects of digoxin (Digox, Lanoxin) when treating atrial fibrillation (AFib)?
Slow your heart rate . Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.
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How can an inhaler help me quit smoking?
Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine. It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks.
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How can nicotine replacement products help when you quit smoking?
Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine. They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms. The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether. You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start.
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How can bupropion (Zyban) help when you quit smoking?
Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke. You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it. Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to. Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth.
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How can counseling help me quit smoking?
Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool. Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help. Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse. Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost. If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call.
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How can nicotine lozenges help me quit smoking?
Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks.
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How can hypnosis help me quit smoking?
Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state. He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke. Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all. Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit.
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How can nicotine gum help me quit smoking?
When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.
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How can a dentist tell when a wisdom teeth removal is needed?
Your dentist will look at the shape of your mouth and the position of your teeth to make a decision. Your age plays a role, too. Still not ready to part with your molars? You can ask your dentist to explain what he sees with your teeth. In many cases, you can wait several months to see if things change before making your decision. But if you have pain or notice swelling or a bad odor near your back teeth, it may be time for a second look.
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What happens during a meditation session?
During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase. It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm. When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality.
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What is the history of meditation?
In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day.
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How does relaxation response of meditation work?
This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions. Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep. Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face. Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way. During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase.
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What is meditation?
Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation.
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What causes anemia in people with diabetes?
Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.
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What are signs that I have anemia?
When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.
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Can kidney dialysis cause anemia?
If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.
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What are the symptoms of anemia?
When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.
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How do doctors test for anemia?
Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.
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How is anemia because of high blood pressure and high blood sugar treated?
High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.
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How is anemia because of a lack of erythropoietin treated?
If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.
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What can affect the absorption of iron if I'm anemic?
Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.
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How is anemia treated?
Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.
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How does anemia affect the kidneys in diabetes patients?
Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.
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How can some medications affect the blood of diabetics?
And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.
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Why does someone with diabetes need to get their blood checked regularly?
If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.
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Is it common for people with diabetes to have anemia?
If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.
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What will doctors test for if I'm anemic?
Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.
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How can I help a loved one who is addicted to prescription drugs?
Doctors can refer you to drug treatment programs for the family member or friend. Many of these programs use outpatient treatment with medications and behavioral therapy. Most importantly, talk to the person about your concerns so he knows that you are aware of the problem. Be prepared for a lot of resistance and denial. Many people with addiction must go through serious consequences before they accept their illness. Then, stand beside the person as he works to move beyond the addiction.
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What is a drug addiction?
Addiction is a chronic brain disease that often happens again. It causes compulsive drug seeking and use despite harmful effects on the addicted person and the people around that person. The abuse of drugs -- even prescription drugs -- leads to changes in how the brain looks and works. For most people, the first decision to take prescription drugs is voluntary. But over time, changes in the brain caused by repeated drug abuse affect a person's self-control and ability to make sound decisions. While this is going on, the person continues to have intense impulses to take more drugs.
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How can buprenorphine help with treating prescription drug abuse?
Buprenorphine is a drug used to treat opiate withdrawal, and it is often combined with the drug naloxone (a combination that can be called Suboxone, Bunavail, or Zubsolv) to prevent relapse. A form of buprenorphine (called Probuphine) can be implanted under the skin. It treats opiate dependence in people who have been taking a stable dose of oral buprenorphine and are no longer ridding their bodies of the drug they're being treated for. It provides a constant dose of buprenorphine for 6 months.
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What makes some people more likely to get addicted to prescription drugs?
Opioids can also be life-threatening in an overdose. Your biology, social environment, and age or stage of growth seem to affect how likely you are to get addicted. The more risks you have, the greater the chance that taking drugs can lead to addiction. Equally important is your stage of growth. Studies show the earlier someone begins to abuse drugs, the greater the chances are that the addiction may become more serious problems.
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What are examples of stimulants?
The National Institute on Drug Abuse says the three classes of prescription drugs that are often abused are: Opioids used to treat pain Central nervous system ( CNS) depressants, such as benzodiazepines ( Xanax, Valium, Ativan, ), used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders Stimulants, such as amphetamine and ( Adderall) or ( Concerta, Daytrana, Methylin, Ritalin), used to treat attention deficit disorder and narcolepsy (a sleep disorder). Today, they're also prescribed to treat problems such as ADHD, ADD, depression, narcolepsy, and other problems. Examples of stimulants are dextroamphetamine ( Dexedrine, Dextrostat, Pro Centra), lisdexamfetamine ( Vyvanse), methylphenidate ( Concerta, Daytrana, Methylin, Ritalin), and the combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine ( Adderall).
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What will your doctor prescribe to treat pruritus?
Your doctor may also prescribe medication to treat pruritus, including antihistamines and topical steroids. Rarely, steroid pills and antibiotics may also be needed.
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How is pruritus treated?
Anyone can get pruritus but certain groups of people are more susceptible to the condition, including: People with seasonal allergies, hay fever, asthma, and eczema People with diabetes People with HIV/ AIDS and various types of cancer, especially those with leukemia or lymphoma Pregnant women The elderly Finding the cause of the itching and treating any underlying skin disease is the first step in solving pruritus. If a drug reaction is suspected, switching to a different medication may be helpful to reduce the itching. However, most drug reactions have a rash along with itching.
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What is the best way to prevent pruritus?
The best way to prevent pruritus is to take care of your skin. To protect skin: Use skin creams and lotions that moisturize your skin and prevent dryness. Use sunscreens regularly to prevent sunburns and skin damage. Use mild bath soap that won't irritate your skin. Take a bath or shower in warm -- not hot -- water. Avoid certain fabrics, such as wool and synthetics, that can make skin itch. Switch to cotton clothing and bed sheets. Since warm, dry air can make skin dry, keep the thermostat in your house down and use a humidifier. To relieve itching, place a cool washcloth or some ice over the area that itches, rather than scratching.
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What symptoms should I look out for if my blood pressure is extremely high?
If your blood pressure is extremely high, there may be certain symptoms to look out for, including: Severe headache Fatigue or confusion Vision problems Chest pain Difficulty breathing Irregular heartbeat Blood in the urine If you have any of these hypertension symptoms, see a doctor immediately.
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When should I call my doctor about high blood pressure?
Your diastolic pressure -- the second, or bottom, number in a blood pressure reading -- suddenly shoots above 120 ,or your systolic pressure, the first number, is over 180; you may have malignant hypertension (also known as ''hypertensive emergency''), a life-threatening condition that can result in heart attack, stroke, kidney and eye problems. You are experiencing severe headaches, nausea, blurred vision, and confusion or memory loss; this may be a sign of malignant hypertension. You are pregnant and develop hypertension; symptoms may include severe headache and sudden swelling of the legs. High blood pressure during pregnancy can affect not only your own health, but also the health of your unborn child. You're taking drugs for high blood pressure and experiencing worrisome side effects, such as angioedema (swelling of your mouth or tongue), drowsiness, constipation, dizziness, or loss of sexual function; your doctor may prescribe a different anti-hypertensive drug.
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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 does the appetite suppressant drug liraglutide (Saxenda) work?
It was originally marketed as a diabetes treatment under the brand name Victoza. The drug dampens hunger by acting on a hormone in the gut. Yes, but probably not as much as you might hope.
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How does the appetite suppressant drug lorcaserin (Belviq) work?
The drug may help you feel full after you eat less food than you normally would. It also works on the hypothalamus, the part of your brain that regulates appetite, temperature, and other functions.
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What are some tests and tools used to diagnose insomnia?
During the exam, your doctor will seek to identify any medical or psychological illness that may be contributing to your insomnia. Epworth Sleepiness Scale: a validated questionnaire that is used to assess daytime sleepiness. Polysomnogram: a test measuring activity during sleep. Actigraphy: a test to assess sleep-wake patterns over time. Actigraphs are small, wrist-worn devices (about the size of a wristwatch) that measure movement.
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How much surgery will you get to treat ovarian cancer?
How much surgery you have depends on how far the cancer has spread. In some cases, the ovaries, uterus, cervix, or fallopian tubes may need to be removed. Other tissue typically removed includes lymph nodes, the omentum (fatty apron covering the intestines) and all visible cancer. If your surgery is in the very early stages or you want to have children, your doctor may not remove all your reproductive organs.
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What are alternative treatments for chronic pain?
Other alternative treatments such as massage, chiropractic therapies, therapeutic touch, certain herbal therapies, and dietary approaches have the potential to alleviate chronic pain in some people.
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Can herbal remedies help with treating chronic pain?
However, it is not possible to draw final conclusions regarding the effectiveness of massage to treat pain because of the shortcomings of available studies. Others, such as white willow bark, devil's claw, ginger, and turmeric have some evidence to support their use to treat pain. If you decide to use herbs to better manage your pain, it is of critical importance to share this information with your doctor. Some herbs may interact with drugs you are receiving for pain or other conditions and may harm your health.
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What are symptoms of spondylolisthesis?
Symptoms include: Lower back pain Muscle tightness and stiffness Pain in the buttocks Pain radiating down the legs (due to pressure on nerve roots) Spondylolisthesis is treated with the strengthening of supportive abdominal and back muscles through physical therapy.
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What's the treatment for spondylolisthesis?
Symptoms include: Lower back pain Muscle tightness and stiffness Pain in the buttocks Pain radiating down the legs (due to pressure on nerve roots) Spondylolisthesis is treated with the strengthening of supportive abdominal and back muscles through physical therapy. For patients who continue to have severe pain and disability after physical therapy, there is the option of surgical fusion (arthrodesis) of the vertebra to the bone below.
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What do prostate ultrasounds and biopsies evaluate?
Prostate ultrasound and biopsy are tests that check the abnormal results of a digital rectal exam or an elevated prostate-specific antigen ( PSA) blood test.
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Will I need to stop taking certain medications before a prostate biopsy and ultrasound?
Tell your doctor if you're taking clopidogrel ( Plavix), rivaroxaban ( Xarelto), warfarin ( Coumadin), or other blood thinners. You may need to stop taking them a week before the procedure. The doctor might prescribe another method to thin your blood.
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What happens after receiving a prostate biopsy and ultrasound?
The doctor will send the biopsy to a lab for analysis. They'll discuss the results with you when they're ready, which is usually within a week. Meanwhile: You can go back to your normal meals and activities. Do NOT take aspirin, products with aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, Motrin, or Naprosyn, or indomethacin ( Indocin) for at least 3 days after the procedure. Drink six to eight glasses of water every day for 3 days after the test to help flush your urinary system. You may notice a small amount of blood in your urine, semen, or stool up to 7 days afterward. This is normal. If your rear end is sore, soak in a warm bath for 20 minutes. Take your antibiotics until all the pills are gone. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember and then go back to your regular schedule.
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When should someone call the doctor after a prostate biopsy and ultrasound?
Call the nearest emergency department if: You have a fever above 100.4 degrees F (38 C).
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How does someone prepare for a prostate biopsy and ultrasound?
Tell your doctor if you have a lung or heart condition or any other diseases, or if you're allergic to any medicines. Also let them know if you have an artificial heart valve or if you've ever been told you need to take antibiotics before a dental or surgical procedure. If you have any of these conditions, you'll get antibiotics to take before the biopsy.
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Which medications should not be taken before a prostate biopsy and ultrasound?
The week before, don't take aspirin, products with aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, Motrin, or Naprosyn, or indomethacin ( Indocin). You'll get antibiotics to take the night before or morning of the test to prevent infection. Don't stop taking any medication without talking to your doctor first.
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What happens the day of a prostate cancer biopsy and ultrasound?
A doctor or nurse will explain the test in detail, including possible complications and side effects. You'll be able to ask questions.
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Why does someone need an enema before getting a prostate biopsy and ultrasound?
Enemas: You'll get one enema before the procedure to empty your colon and minimize the risk of infection. The doctor may have you take the enema at home. Try to hold the enema solution for at least 5 minutes before you release it.
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What are symptoms of osteomalacia?
If you have soft bones, you may have symptoms, including: Easily broken bones Feeling tired Pain Stiffness Trouble getting up from sitting or walking up stairs Weak muscles in your arms and thighs People with osteomalacia may walk with a waddling, side-to-side stride.
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What tests are done to diagnose osteomalacia?
Your doctor probably will recommend: Blood tests to measure the level of vitamin D in your body X-rays to look at your bone structure Bone mineral density scans to test the amount of calcium and phosphate in your bones It doesn't happen often, but your doctor may want to do a bone biopsy. This involves taking a piece of your bone tissue to check it.