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What is distal muscular dystrophy?
This group of rare diseases affects adult men and women. It causes weakness and wasting of the distal muscles (those farthest from the center) of the forearms, hands, lower legs, and feet. It is generally less severe, progresses more slowly, and affects fewer muscles than other forms of muscular dystrophy.
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What is the most common form of muscular dystrophy?
The most common form of muscular dystrophy in adults, myotonic muscular dystrophy affects both men and women, and it usually appears any time from early childhood to adulthood. In rare cases, it appears in newborns (congenital MMD). The name refers to a symptom, myotonia -- prolonged spasm or stiffening of muscles after use. This symptom is usually worse in cold temperatures. The disease causes muscle weakness and also affects the central nervous system, heart, gastrointestinal tract, eyes, and hormone-producing glands. In most cases, daily living isn't restricted for many years. Those with myotonic MD have a decreased life expectancy.
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How does muscular dystrophy become inherited as an X-linked disorder?
Men carry one X chromosome and one Y chromosome. Females carry two X chromosomes. Thus, in order for a girl to become affected by muscular dystrophy, both of her X chromosomes would have to carry the defective gene -- an extremely rare occurrence, since her mother would have to be a carrier (one defective X chromosome) and her father would have to have muscular dystrophy (since men carry just one X chromosome, the other is a Y chromosome). A female who carries the defective X chromosome can pass the disease to her son (whose other chromosome is a Y, from the father). A few muscular dystrophies aren't inherited at all and occur because of a new gene abnormality or mutation.
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What is the most common form of muscular dystrophy in children?
The most common form of muscular dystrophy in children, Duchenne muscular dystrophy affects only males. It appears between the ages of 2 and 6. The muscles decrease in size and grow weaker over time yet may appear larger. Disease progression varies, but many people with Duchenne (1 in 3,500 boys) need a wheelchair by the age of 12. In most cases, the arms, legs, and spine become progressively deformed, and there may be some cognitive impairment. Severe breathing and heart problems mark the later stages of the disease. Those with Duchenne MD usually die in their late teens or early 20s.
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What are the cause of mood episodes in bipolar disorder?
Aside from a shift in your mood, look for changes in your: Sleep patterns Energy level Alcohol or drug use Sex drive Self-esteem Concentration Mood episodes in bipolar disorder often happen suddenly, for no particular reason. Sometimes, you may notice that there are specific things that can trigger mania or depression, such as getting too little sleep, changes to your daily routine, or jet lag when you travel. Many people find they're more likely to become depressed or manic during stressful times at work or during holidays. Some people see seasonal patterns to their mood changes.
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When should I get help with a mood swing in bipolar disorder?
If you see the signs of potential trouble, get help. Don't wait for the mood episode to pass on its own. You might be able to stop a minor change from becoming a serious problem.
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What is a way to spot triggers of mood swings in bipolar disorder?
One good way to spot your triggers is to keep a journal. Make note of big events, stresses, your medication dose, and the amount of sleep you're getting. Over time, you might see some patterns. Of course, there may be triggers that you just can't avoid, like a serious illness or the death of a loved one. But if you can recognize the things that are likely to bring on mania or depression, you can prepare for times when you might be most vulnerable. Work with a mental health professional to plan what to do when you think a mood swing might happen. Ask for more help from family and friends. Have them check in more often so you get extra support.
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What is the problem with mania in bipolar disorder?
Nobody likes feeling that way. But it's different for people who are manic. Often, they don't think anything is wrong. Or if they notice a difference in their mood and personality, they think it's an improvement. Mania can be seductive. You might feel more energized, creative, and interesting. You might be able to get tons of work done. So what's the problem? Manic phases often turn destructive. You might wipe out your savings account on a shopping spree. You might have affairs that ruin your marriage. Most dangerous of all, mania can make you do things that risk your life or the lives of others. And it's often followed by depression. Although mania can feel good at the moment, in the long run, you'll be happier, healthier, more productive, and more successful if you can keep a stable mood.
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When should you visit a sleep lab about sleep apnea?
If you think you have sleep apnea, ask your doctor for a referral to a sleep lab, where they can check to see if you need have this condition and need treatment such as a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine to help you breathe steadily while you sleep. If you're overweight, losing extra pounds may help, too.
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What is obstructive sleep apnea?
You are more likely to snore if you're overweight and if you: Drink alcohol Smoke Take medications such as sleeping pills, cold medicines, or antihistamines Sleep on your back Sleep on a pillow that's too soft or too large Have enlarged tonsils, chronic nasal congestion, or deviated nasal septum Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious condition that's linked to snoring. If you have sleep apnea, you briefly stop breathing during sleep several times a night. Sleep apnea can make you tired, give you headaches, and is linked to other serious conditions including high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
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When are you more likely to snore?
You are more likely to snore if you're overweight and if you: Drink alcohol Smoke Take medications such as sleeping pills, cold medicines, or antihistamines Sleep on your back Sleep on a pillow that's too soft or too large Have enlarged tonsils, chronic nasal congestion, or deviated nasal septum Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious condition that's linked to snoring.
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What are the symptoms of juvenile X-linked retinoschisis?
Symptoms XJR starts at birth and usually affects both eyes. Symptoms can appear in the first few months of life. Some boys, though, aren't diagnosed until they start school and have trouble reading. Their vision often gets worse during childhood and then levels off for a while. When a man reaches his 50s and 60s, his vision might start to worsen again. Some people lose a lot of their vision by adulthood, but it's rare for retinoschisis to cause blindness. Other symptoms include: Eyes that look in different directions (strabismus) Poor close-up vision (farsightedness) Bleeding in your eye caused by damaged blood vessels In rare cases, the retina will pull away from the eye completely. This is called retinal detachment, and it can lead to serious vision loss. People who have retinal detachment will need surgery to fix it.
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What is the treatment for juvenile x-linked retinoschisis?
Treatment No medicine or surgery can treat a divided retina. Glasses can't do much if your vision is bad because of nerve damage, but they can help if you're nearsighted (can't see far away) or farsighted. Large-print textbooks, computer screens, and other low-vision tools can help children in school. Bleeding in your eye is treated with a laser or with cold (cryotherapy) to close damaged blood vessels in the retina. Surgery can fix a detached retina. Researchers are testing new treatments for retinoschisis. One of these replaces the damaged gene with a copy of a healthy gene. Stem cell treatments are also being studied.
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What are the symptoms of senile retinoschisis?
Symptoms SR doesn't usually cause vision loss or other symptoms and, typically, is only found during an eye exam. Over time, some people lose a little of their side vision. In rare cases, the retina can become detached.
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What are the symptoms of juvenile x-linked retinoschisis?
Symptoms XJR starts at birth and usually affects both eyes. Symptoms can appear in the first few months of life. Some boys, though, aren't diagnosed until they start school and have trouble reading. Their vision often gets worse during childhood and then levels off for a while. When a man reaches his 50s and 60s, his vision might start to worsen again. Some people lose a lot of their vision by adulthood, but it's rare for retinoschisis to cause blindness. Other symptoms include: Eyes that look in different directions (strabismus) Poor close-up vision (farsightedness) Bleeding in your eye caused by damaged blood vessels In rare cases, the retina will pull away from the eye completely. This is called retinal detachment, and it can lead to serious vision loss. People who have retinal detachment will need surgery to fix it.
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What are the causes of juvenile x-linked retinoschisis?
Causes XJR is caused by a change -- or mutation -- to a gene. If a girl gets the problem gene from a parent, she'll carry the disorder but won't have symptoms. If a boy gets the gene, he'll have the disorder. If a mother has the gene, her female children have a 50% chance of being a carrier. Her male children have a 50% chance of having the disorder. Men who have the gene can't pass it to their sons, but their daughters will be carriers.
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What is the treatment for degenerative (senile) retinoschisis?
Diagnosis Tests your eye doctor might recommend include: Visual acuity test to check how well you can focus Field of vision test to measure your central and side vision Ophthalmoscopy to look at the back of your eye, including the retina Slit lamp exam to get a large, three-dimensional (3- D) view of the different parts of your eye Treatment People with degenerative retinoschisis usually don't need treatment. See your eye doctor for regular checkups to make sure you don't have any vision loss. If the retina detaches, your doctor will treat it with surgery.
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What are the symptoms of degenerative (senile) retinoschisis?
Symptoms SR doesn't usually cause vision loss or other symptoms and, typically, is only found during an eye exam. Over time, some people lose a little of their side vision. In rare cases, the retina can become detached.
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What causes juvenile X-linked retinoschisis?
Causes XJR is caused by a change -- or mutation -- to a gene. If a girl gets the problem gene from a parent, she'll carry the disorder but won't have symptoms. If a boy gets the gene, he'll have the disorder. If a mother has the gene, her female children have a 50% chance of being a carrier. Her male children have a 50% chance of having the disorder. Men who have the gene can't pass it to their sons, but their daughters will be carriers.
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What is juvenile x-linked retinoschisis?
There are two forms of this condition: Juvenile X-linked retinoschisis Degenerative (senile) retinoschisis This rare condition, sometimes called XJR, mainly affects boys and men. It damages an area in the middle of the retina called the macula. The macula gives you clear central vision, and lets you focus on things in front of you, like a book or computer. Sometimes the condition also can affect your side, or peripheral, vision.
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What tests are used to diagnose juvenile X-linked retinoschisis?
Diagnosis Your eye doctor will look for splits or tears in your retina. Tests for juvenile X-linked retinoschisis include: Optical coherence tomography ( OCT): Light waves make pictures of the retina. Ultrasound : Sound waves create pictures of the eyes. This can show bleeding in the eye. Electroretinogram ( ERG): This measures electrical activity in the retina. A special sensor is placed in each eye. While you look at a flashing light, the doctor will see how your retinas respond. Gene tests: Theselook for the RS1 gene that causes juvenile X-linked retinoschisis. People with juvenile retinoschisis should get regular eye exams to check for vision loss.
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How is degenerative (senile) retinoschisis diagnosed?
Diagnosis Tests your eye doctor might recommend include: Visual acuity test to check how well you can focus Field of vision test to measure your central and side vision Ophthalmoscopy to look at the back of your eye, including the retina Slit lamp exam to get a large, three-dimensional (3- D) view of the different parts of your eye Treatment People with degenerative retinoschisis usually don't need treatment.
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What causes degenerative (senile) retinoschisis?
Causes SR isn't caused by a problem gene, and it's not passed down through families. Doctors don't know exactly why the retina becomes damaged as some people get older.
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What is degenerative (senile) retinoschisis?
This form, sometimes called SR, usually affects men and women in their 50s to 70s, but it can start earlier in life. It's not as serious as the juvenile form and rarely causes vision loss.
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What are the causes of senile retinoschisis?
Causes SR isn't caused by a problem gene, and it's not passed down through families. Doctors don't know exactly why the retina becomes damaged as some people get older.
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What is the treatment for senile retinoschisis?
Diagnosis Tests your eye doctor might recommend include: Visual acuity test to check how well you can focus Field of vision test to measure your central and side vision Ophthalmoscopy to look at the back of your eye, including the retina Slit lamp exam to get a large, three-dimensional (3- D) view of the different parts of your eye Treatment People with degenerative retinoschisis usually don't need treatment. See your eye doctor for regular checkups to make sure you don't have any vision loss. If the retina detaches, your doctor will treat it with surgery.
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When should you call 911 about poison ivy, oak, or sumac allergies?
Trouble swallowing or breathing Swelling, especially near the eyes or on the face Wash with warm soap and water.
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How can you ease itching and discomfort from poison ivy, oak, or sumac allergies?
Apply cool compresses for 15 to 30 minutes at a time. Avoid topical antihistamines, anesthetics like benzocaine, and antibiotic ointments, all of which may make skin more sensitive. Have the person take oatmeal baths. Apply calamine lotion. If itchiness makes sleep difficult, give an oral antihistamine.
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What is the biggest reason for strokes?
It's the biggest culprit behind strokes, causing more than half of them.
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What is the best way to prevent strokes?
Experts say 80% of strokes can be prevented. The single best way to do that is to get your blood pressure in the healthy range. That means lower than 120/80.
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How can high blood pressure cause stroke?
Hypertension puts your arteries under constant stress. As with a tire that's been overpumped, too much force inside your blood vessels damages the artery walls and makes them weaker.
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What is an ischemic stroke?
In almost 9 out of 10 cases, you have a stroke because something, usually a clot, blocks the flow of blood to the brain. Doctors call this an ischemic stroke.
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What is a hemorrhagic stroke?
Strokes caused by bleeding in or around the brain. These are “hemorrhagic” strokes. They tend to be more serious and deadlier than clot-based ones. A weak blood vessel breaks open, usually because of an aneurysm, a spot that has ballooned up from pressure.
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How is schizophrenia in teens treated?
If your teen has the condition, a combination of treatments may work best. These might include medication and individual and family therapy. The diagnosis can be tough news to hear.
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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 possible complications after an organ transplant?
High blood pressure.
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What causes temporal arteritis?
It's an autoimmune disease. That means your immune system mistakenly attacks your body's healthy tissues. In temporal arteritis, immune cells react against blood vessels and make them inflamed.
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How does temporal arteritis affect my eyesight?
When arteries are inflamed, blood can't move as easily through them. Temporal arteritis can keep oxygen from getting to your eyes, and this can damage them. You might need to see an eye doctor to check for this.
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What is temporal arteritis?
Temporal arteritis is a disease that causes your arteries -- blood vessels that carry oxygen from your heart to the rest of your body -- to become inflamed. It usually happens to the large and medium-sized temporal arteries that run along both sides of your head. The cells of these inflamed arteries look huge under a microscope. That is why temporal arteritis is also called giant cell arteritis. The swelling slows blood flow through your arteries, and that can cause symptoms like headaches and pain in your face and joints. Left untreated, narrowed arteries can cause vision problems and blindness. Medication can help your symptoms and prevent serious health issues.
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Why would you need bone density tests if you take steroids for temporal arteritis?
These medications can weaken your bones, so your doctor might suggest regular bone mineral density tests. Your doctor may suggest you take calcium and vitamin D supplements, along with a prescription drug called a bisphosphonate, to slow down or prevent bone damage.
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What's the treatment for temporal arteritis?
If you have temporal arteritis, your doctor will start you on medication right away to prevent vision loss and other problems. The main treatment is high doses of steroids, such as prednisone, to reduce inflammation in the arteries. You'll take this medication by mouth every day.
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How does multiple sclerosis impact sexual function?
But, there are steps that can be taken to improve sexual function and intimacy, despite MS. Changes in sexual function can occur as a result of the neurologic and psychological affects of multiple sclerosis.
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Does multiple sclerosis affect sexual intimacy?
What with the fatigue, muscle spasms, and bladder control problems, who would want to think about sex? But, there are steps that can be taken to improve sexual function and intimacy, despite MS. Changes in sexual function can occur as a result of the neurologic and psychological affects of multiple sclerosis.
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What is the neurological impact of multiple sclerosis (MS) on sex?
Sexual arousal begins in the central nervous system, as the brain sends messages to the sexual organs along the nerve pathway in the spinal cord. MS-related changes to these nerve pathways can directly or indirectly impair sexual functioning. For example, the following symptoms can occur as a direct result of myelin breakdown in the spinal cord or brain: Decreased sex drive Altered genital sensations (numbness, pain, increased sensitivity) Difficulty or inability to maintain erection Decreased vaginal lubrication Decreased vaginal muscle tone Ejaculation difficulty Problems having an orgasm The following symptoms can arise as a consequence of MS physical changes or treatments and affect sexual intimacy: Fatigue Spasticity Sensory changes Pain A loss of interest in sexual contact or intimacy may arise as a result of psychological or social issues associated with multiple sclerosis, such as: Depression Performance anxiety Changes in self-image or body image as a result of disability Talk to your partner about your sexual issues and multiple sclerosis.
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What is the psychological impact of multiple sclerosis on sex?
For example, the following symptoms can occur as a direct result of myelin breakdown in the spinal cord or brain: Decreased sex drive Altered genital sensations (numbness, pain, increased sensitivity) Difficulty or inability to maintain erection Decreased vaginal lubrication Decreased vaginal muscle tone Ejaculation difficulty Problems having an orgasm The following symptoms can arise as a consequence of MS physical changes or treatments and affect sexual intimacy: Fatigue Spasticity Sensory changes Pain A loss of interest in sexual contact or intimacy may arise as a result of psychological or social issues associated with multiple sclerosis, such as: Depression Performance anxiety Changes in self-image or body image as a result of disability Talk to your partner about your sexual issues and multiple sclerosis.
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What symptoms can arise as a consequence of multiple sclerosis physical changes or treatment?
For example, the following symptoms can occur as a direct result of myelin breakdown in the spinal cord or brain: Decreased sex drive Altered genital sensations (numbness, pain, increased sensitivity) Difficulty or inability to maintain erection Decreased vaginal lubrication Decreased vaginal muscle tone Ejaculation difficulty Problems having an orgasm The following symptoms can arise as a consequence of MS physical changes or treatments and affect sexual intimacy: Fatigue Spasticity Sensory changes Pain A loss of interest in sexual contact or intimacy may arise as a result of psychological or social issues associated with multiple sclerosis, such as: Depression Performance anxiety Changes in self-image or body image as a result of disability Talk to your partner about your sexual issues and multiple sclerosis.
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What is the psychological impact of muscular sclerosis on sex?
For example, the following symptoms can occur as a direct result of myelin breakdown in the spinal cord or brain: Decreased sex drive Altered genital sensations (numbness, pain, increased sensitivity) Difficulty or inability to maintain erection Decreased vaginal lubrication Decreased vaginal muscle tone Ejaculation difficulty Problems having an orgasm The following symptoms can arise as a consequence of MS physical changes or treatments and affect sexual intimacy: Fatigue Spasticity Sensory changes Pain A loss of interest in sexual contact or intimacy may arise as a result of psychological or social issues associated with multiple sclerosis, such as: Depression Performance anxiety Changes in self-image or body image as a result of disability Talk to your partner about your sexual issues and multiple sclerosis.
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What is the neurologic impact of multiple sclerosis?
Sexual arousal begins in the central nervous system, as the brain sends messages to the sexual organs along the nerve pathway in the spinal cord. MS-related changes to these nerve pathways can directly or indirectly impair sexual functioning. For example, the following symptoms can occur as a direct result of myelin breakdown in the spinal cord or brain: Decreased sex drive Altered genital sensations (numbness, pain, increased sensitivity) Difficulty or inability to maintain erection Decreased vaginal lubrication Decreased vaginal muscle tone Ejaculation difficulty Problems having an orgasm The following symptoms can arise as a consequence of MS physical changes or treatments and affect sexual intimacy: Fatigue Spasticity Sensory changes Pain A loss of interest in sexual contact or intimacy may arise as a result of psychological or social issues associated with multiple sclerosis, such as: Depression Performance anxiety Changes in self-image or body image as a result of disability Talk to your partner about your sexual issues and multiple sclerosis.
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What can prevent someone with multiple sclerosis (MS) from having sex?
For example, the following symptoms can occur as a direct result of myelin breakdown in the spinal cord or brain: Decreased sex drive Altered genital sensations (numbness, pain, increased sensitivity) Difficulty or inability to maintain erection Decreased vaginal lubrication Decreased vaginal muscle tone Ejaculation difficulty Problems having an orgasm The following symptoms can arise as a consequence of MS physical changes or treatments and affect sexual intimacy: Fatigue Spasticity Sensory changes Pain A loss of interest in sexual contact or intimacy may arise as a result of psychological or social issues associated with multiple sclerosis, such as: Depression Performance anxiety Changes in self-image or body image as a result of disability Talk to your partner about your sexual issues and multiple sclerosis.
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What is psychodynamic therapy?
Different approaches to therapy include: Psychodynamic Therapy Psychodynamic therapy is based on the assumption that a person is having emotional problems because of unresolved, generally unconscious conflicts, often stemming from childhood. The goal of this type of therapy is for the patient to understand and cope better with these feelings by talking about the experiences. Psychodynamic therapy is administered over a period of at least several months, although it can last longer, even years.
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What can make acne worse?
Though acne is essentially a normal physiologic occurrence, certain conditions may aggravate the condition, including: Fluctuating hormone levels around the time of menses (women) Manipulating (picking/prodding) acne lesions Clothing (for example, hats and sports helmets) and headgear Only three types of drugs have proven to be effective for the treatment of acne -- antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids.
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What are the forms of acne?
Retinoids (vitamin A derivatives), for example, Differin, Retin- A, Tazorac, treat blackheads and whiteheads, the first lesions of acne.
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How can acne be prevented?
To prevent acne and reduce its damage to your skin, follow these tips. Choose a cleanser specially formulated for acne. These products often contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide, which help to clear acne sores. Clean your face gently, as trauma to the acne breakouts may worsen the acne or cause scarring. When washing your face, use your hands or cotton pads, as any terrycloth or other scrubbing material may cause acne sores to rupture. If you need to use a moisturizer, use only light, noncomedogenic moisturizers, which do not aggravate acne. If you are a woman, use an oil-free foundation. Heavy makeup or other cosmetic products that block pores may cause a flare-up of acne.
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Can antibiotics help acne?
Antibiotics , either topically applied to the skin (clindamycin, erythromycin), or taken orally (tetracycline and its derivatives, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) control surface bacteria and reduce inflammation in the skin. Antibiotics are more effective when combined with benzoyl peroxide or retinoids.
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Are there drugs that can help acne?
Though acne is essentially a normal physiologic occurrence, certain conditions may aggravate the condition, including: Fluctuating hormone levels around the time of menses (women) Manipulating (picking/prodding) acne lesions Clothing (for example, hats and sports helmets) and headgear Only three types of drugs have proven to be effective for the treatment of acne -- antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids. Most people require at least one or two agents, depending on the severity of their acne.
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How is sunlight used to treat skin problems?
Too many rays coming directly from the sun can make your symptoms worse and raise your chances of getting skin cancer. If your doctor tells you to get some sun each day, about 20 minutes a day should be enough. Use a sunscreen with zinc oxide and an SPF of 30 or higher on areas of your skin that don't have psoriasis.
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What are the side effects of psoralen plus ultraviolet A for your skin?
PUVA clears up psoriasis quickly with long-lasting results. But using it for a long time can raise your chances of skin cancer. Because of that, it's typically only recommended for severe cases or when other treatments haven't worked. The treatment also has side effects such as: Nausea Exhaustion Headaches Burning and itching Because psoralen makes your body extra sensitive to light, you need to protect your skin and eyes after taking it.
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What combination treatment works with ultraviolet B for your skin?
Your doctor might suggest you use UVB treatment along with another kind of therapy, like a cream made from coal tar. He may call this the Goeckerman regimen. Another combination treatment pairs anthralin-salicylic acid paste with ultraviolet light. You might hear this called the Ingram regimen.
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Are lasers used to treat skin problems?
These highly focused beams of light target your psoriasis patches, not your healthy skin. This cuts down on side effects and may lower your chances of skin cancer. You'll also need fewer treatments compared with other types of light therapy.
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When is light therapy used to treat psoriasis?
If the medicine you put on your skin isn't doing all that it needs to, your doctor may suggest adding phototherapy to your psoriasis treatment. It uses ultraviolet rays that come from sunshine, artificial lamps, or lasers to slow skin cell growth and ease your symptoms.
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When should I stop taking eye medication?
Call him or her as soon as possible if you feel you need to stop the medication. If you quit too early, the illness might return or become harder to treat. Don't double the dose unless your doctor says to.
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What if I am pregnant and taking eye prescription medications?
Tell the doctor if you're expecting or breastfeeding. Small amounts of medication can pass from mother to child.
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What should I tell my eye doctor before they prescribe me drugs?
Before your eye doctor prescribes a drug, tell him or her if: You're allergic to any medication You're on any other drugs, including over-the-counter ones You're pregnant or think you might be You have problems with any medications When you take eye medication, follow these safety tips: Read all labels carefully.
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What are some safety tips for the dosage of my eye medication?
Don't double the dose unless your doctor says to. If you miss a dose, don't panic. Take it as soon as you remember.
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How should I keep my eye medication?
Don't keep medication that's outdated or no longer needed. Store it in a dry area away from moisture, unless the doctor or pharmacist tells you to refrigerate it. Always keep medications out of the reach of children.
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Do clogged arteries cause any symptoms?
In many instances, clogged arteries do not cause any symptoms until a major event, such as a heart attack or stroke, occurs. At other times, especially when the artery is blocked by 70% or more, the buildup of arterial plaque may cause symptoms that include: Chest pain Shortness of breath Heart palpitations Weakness or dizziness Nausea Sweating The first symptom, chest pain, is also called angina.
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Can smoking cause arterial plaque?
Cigarette smoke seems to increase the rate of atherosclerosis in the arteries of the heart, legs, and the aorta -- the largest artery in the body.
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Can lifestyle changes treat clogged arteries?
A healthy lifestyle is essential for the management of arterial plaque and treatment of clogged arteries. This includes: Eating a diet low in saturated fats and cholesterol, with less sugars and simple carbohydrates, and rich in fruits and vegetables Maintaining a healthy body weight Not smoking Exercising regularly Managing stress levels Keeping blood pressure and cholesterol down Maintaining low blood sugars 2.
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Can diabetes make you more likely to get plaque in your arteries?
Even people who have elevated sugars not yet at the level of diabetes, such as seen in metabolic syndrome, also have increased risk of plaque formation.
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What are symptoms of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)?
TIAs may produce the following symptoms: Sensation of weakness or numbness on one side of your body Inability to move an arm or a leg Loss of vision on one side only Slurring of words Clogged arteries in peripheral artery disease may cause: Leg pain Delayed healing of injuries to the feet Cold feet Gangrene Yes.
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Are there tests for clogged arteries?
There are several tests for clogged arteries. Your doctor will determine which tests to prescribe based on your symptoms and medical history. The tests may include: Cholesterol screening Chest X-ray CT scan Ultrasound Echocardiogram and/or cardiac stress test Electrocardiogram MRI or PET scanning Angiogram There are a variety of prevention and treatment options for clogged arteries.
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What medications treat clogged arteries or arterial plaque?
These include: Cholesterol-lowering drugs Blood pressure-lowering drugs Aspirin and other blood-thinning drugs, which reduce the likelihood of dangerous blood clot formation
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How can you screen for colorectal cancer?
The current American Cancer Society screening guidelines for colorectal cancer n an average risk patient begin at the age of 45 and include the following options: Stool based tests: Fecal immunochemical test ( FIT) yearly Guaiac fecal occult blood test yearly Stool DNA test every 3 years Structural examinations: Colonoscopy every 10 years Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years. If you have a positive result on a screening test that is not a colonoscopy, further evaluation should be performed on a timely basis with a colonoscopy test to take a look at your entire colon.
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What happens after a biopsy confirms colorectal cancer?
Should a biopsy confirm cancer, imaging tests using chest X-rays and CT scans of the abdomen, pelvis, and possibly chest are performed to find out whether the cancer has spread to other sites. Blood tests will also be ordered to find out how well the liver and kidneys are functioning, to determine if you are anemic, and to measure the blood level of a substance called carcinoembryonic antigen ( CEA), often found in higher-than-normal concentration in the presence of colorectal cancer, especially if it has spread.
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How is colorectal cancer diagnosed?
The current American Cancer Society screening guidelines for colorectal cancer n an average risk patient begin at the age of 45 and include the following options: Stool based tests: Fecal immunochemical test ( FIT) yearly Guaiac fecal occult blood test yearly Stool DNA test every 3 years Structural examinations: Colonoscopy every 10 years Flexible sigmoidoscopy every 5 years CT colonography (virtual colonoscopy) every 5 years. If you have a positive result on a screening test that is not a colonoscopy, further evaluation should be performed on a timely basis with a colonoscopy test to take a look at your entire colon.
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How is radiation therapy used to treat colorectal cancer?
For rectal cancer, radiation is usually given after surgery, along with chemotherapy (known as adjuvant therapy), in order to destroy any cancer cells left behind. In addition, it can be used along with chemotherapy before surgery (known as neoadjuvant therapy) in order to shrink a large tumor, making the surgery easier. In advanced rectal cancer, radiation can be used to shrink tumors that cause symptoms of bowel obstruction, bleeding, or pain.
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How do you treat irritated eyes caused by foreign objects?
Solution: If something feels stuck in your eye, try to wash it out with water. Don't touch your eye or try to remove the object. Keep your eye closed as much as possible and go to an eye doctor or emergency room immediately.
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Are foreign objects irritating your eyes?
Foreign objects: Sand, dirt, and sawdust can make you weepy. They can also scratch your cornea, the clear covering of the front of your eye. Symptoms include pain (which may be worse when you open or shut your eye), redness, watering, and sensitivity to light.
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How do I treat medical conditions that irritate my eyes?
Symptoms include: Always feeling like you have something in your eye Eyelids or lashes that crust over Eyelashes that grow in wrong directions Flakes at the base of your lashes Redness and itching Solution: Your doctor may prescribe medications for chronic dry eyes. There are treatments for blepharitis, too, and your doctor will probably suggest using an eyelid scrub.
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How do I keep my eyes healthy and infection-free?
Replace your mascara often, and never share makeup. Wear wrap-around sunglasses, and use safety glasses if you work with machinery. Keep them moist. Dry eyes are more likely to get inflamed or scarred. Stay away from cigarette smoke. Air conditioning can pull moisture from the air in your house, so run a humidifier if it feels too dry. Ask your doctor if any of your medications might dry out your eyes. Be careful with contacts. Wash your hands before you put in your lenses. See your eye doctor. If you have pain or blurriness, double vision, or a serious eye injury, go to the doctor immediately.
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What is pinkeye?
Infections: Red, itchy pinkeye is a form of conjunctivitis caused by a virus or bacteria. Your eyes put out a sticky or ropy discharge. Your eyelids may crust over. It usually starts in one eye and spreads to the other. And you can infect other people. Solution: Try cool compresses if they're itchy. Your doctor can tell you if the cause is a virus or bacteria. He might prescribe eye drops to treat it.
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How do you treat allergies that cause eye irritation?
Solution: Try over-the-counter antihistamine eye drops or allergy pills. A cool compress may soothe the itching.
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What should I do if something feels stuck in my eye?
Foreign objects: Sand, dirt, and sawdust can make you weepy. They can also scratch your cornea, the clear covering of the front of your eye. Symptoms include pain (which may be worse when you open or shut your eye), redness, watering, and sensitivity to light. Solution: If something feels stuck in your eye, try to wash it out with water. Don't touch your eye or try to remove the object. Keep your eye closed as much as possible and go to an eye doctor or emergency room immediately.
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What medical conditions can irritate my eyes?
Medical conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome can cause dry eyes as well as more serious problems. Bacteria or a form of dandruff can cause blepharitis, a chronic condition that involves inflammation of the eyelids.
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How do I soothe common eye irritants?
Irritants: Other things that can make your eyes red and itchy include tobacco smoke, chlorinated pool water, and even the air around indoor pools. Solution: Rinse your eyes with clean, warm water, and use artificial tears to soothe them.
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How do you treat what's irritating your eyes?
Solution: Rinse your eyes with clean, warm water, and use artificial tears to soothe them.
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Is an allergy irritating your eyes?
Allergies: Your eyes let you know when it's allergy season, or if your new partner's pet gives off dander. Itchy, watery, swollen, and red eyes are signs of allergic conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the membrane that covers the whites of your eyes. Sometimes this happens along with nasal allergy symptoms.
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Are medical conditions causing your irritated eyes?
Medical conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome can cause dry eyes as well as more serious problems. Bacteria or a form of dandruff can cause blepharitis, a chronic condition that involves inflammation of the eyelids. Symptoms include: Always feeling like you have something in your eye Eyelids or lashes that crust over Eyelashes that grow in wrong directions Flakes at the base of your lashes Redness and itching Solution: Your doctor may prescribe medications for chronic dry eyes.
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How can attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affect my sex life?
If you have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD), it can cause problems with intimacy and lead to some communication problems. You can have trouble paying attention during sex. Your mind might wander during foreplay, cuddling, or sex. That may seem normal to you, but your partner may see it as lack of interest. Your mood or desires may change suddenly. One day you might like cuddling or a certain sex act. The next day, the same things might bother you. Feelings like anger and loneliness may make you less interested in sex. They may also cause communication issues between you and your partner. You may be drawn to risky behaviors, like unprotected sex. ADHD can lower levels of certain brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. That may make you more likely to take risks or be impulsive. You may like to have different sex partners. This can make it harder to keep a long-term relationship and raise the chances of risky sex.
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Can I still have a healthy sex life with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)?
If you have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD), it can cause problems with intimacy and lead to some communication problems.
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What are drying guide for a dry hair?
Squeeze wetness out of your hair. Rubbing a towel back and forth causes friction, which breaks your hair. Spray on a detangling, moisturizing product before using the blow dryer, flat iron, or curling iron. This protects against the heat and keeps your hair from drying out. For maximum protection, spray it on from the ends to the roots and then brush through, rather than combing, to cover hair completely. Use natural boar bristle brushes while blow drying. Hold the blow dryer 4 to 6 inches away from the brush as you style.
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What blood tests can diagnose anemia?
Blood tests will not only confirm the diagnosis of anemia, but also help point to the underlying condition. Tests might include: Complete blood count ( CBC), which determines the number, size, volume, and hemoglobin content of red blood cells Blood iron level and your serum ferritin level, the best indicators of your body's total iron stores Levels of vitamin B12 and folate, vitamins necessary for red blood cell production Special blood tests to detect rare causes of anemia, such as an immune attack on your red blood cells, red blood cell fragility, and defects of enzymes, hemoglobin, and clotting Reticulocyte count, bilirubin, and other blood and urine tests to determine how quickly your blood cells are being made or if you have a hemolytic anemia, where your red blood cells have a shortened life span Only in rare cases will a doctor need to remove a sample of bone marrow to determine the cause of your anemia.
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How do you treat sickle cell anemia in children?
Sickle Cell Anemia Occasionally, children with sickle cell disease who have an appropriate donor may be cured by a bone marrow transplant. Alternatively, a drug called hydroxyurea ( Droxia, Hydrea, Silkos) appears to stimulate the formation of an alternate form of hemoglobin that isn't susceptible to the sickling, and may be used to reduce the frequency of bone pain. The bone pain can usually be eased with pain medications and the anemia may require transfusions. Hydroxyurea may also decrease the need for blood transfusions.
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Will doctors ever need to remove a sample of bone marrow to diagnose anemia?
Tests might include: Complete blood count ( CBC), which determines the number, size, volume, and hemoglobin content of red blood cells Blood iron level and your serum ferritin level, the best indicators of your body's total iron stores Levels of vitamin B12 and folate, vitamins necessary for red blood cell production Special blood tests to detect rare causes of anemia, such as an immune attack on your red blood cells, red blood cell fragility, and defects of enzymes, hemoglobin, and clotting Reticulocyte count, bilirubin, and other blood and urine tests to determine how quickly your blood cells are being made or if you have a hemolytic anemia, where your red blood cells have a shortened life span Only in rare cases will a doctor need to remove a sample of bone marrow to determine the cause of your anemia.
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How do you treat anemia caused by blood loss?
Anemia Caused by Blood Loss If you suddenly lose a large volume of blood, you may be treated with fluids, a blood transfusion, oxygen, and possibly iron to help your body build new red blood cells. Chronic blood loss is treated by identifying the source of bleeding, stopping the bleeding, and, if necessary, providing treatment for iron-deficiency anemia.
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How do you treat anemia caused by iron deficiency?
With iron deficiency anemia, your doctor will probably recommend iron supplements that contain the ferrous form of iron, which your body can absorb easily. Timed-release iron supplements are not a good choice for most people, because iron is primarily absorbed in the upper part of the digestive tract.
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How do you treat anemia caused by chronic disease?
Anemia Caused by Chronic Disease It is best to treat the underlying condition whenever possible. Anemia caused by chronic kidney disease or following chemotherapy can often be treated with an injection of recombinant human erythropoietin called epoetin alpha ( Epogen, Procrit) or darbepoetin alfa ( Aranesp). Erythropoietin is a hormone that stimulates the production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. Darbepoetin alfa is a synthetic form of erythropoietin.
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How do you treat lead poisoning?
Lead poisoning is treated by discontinuing exposure to lead and administering a drug that binds and draws lead out of the body.
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What might your doctor do if your iron-deficiency anemia does not improve with iron supplements?
Your doctor will monitor your red blood cell counts, including hematocrit, hemoglobin, and ferritin levels, during treatment. If your anemia doesn't improve with iron supplements, your doctor will look for some other underlying cause. In rare cases, your doctor may prescribe iron injections or give you iron intravenously (through a needle in the vein). In extremely rare cases of life-threatening iron-deficiency anemia, treatment may involve a blood transfusion.
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How do I know if I have anemia?
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