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469c710614f6457984dd243877998ab1 | What medications can cause muscle cramps? | They include: Poor blood circulation in your legs Working calf muscles too hard while exercising Not stretching enough Being active in hot temperatures Muscle fatigue Dehydration Magnesium and/or potassium deficiency A problem such as a spinal cord injury or pinched nerve in your neck or back Kidney disease Muscle cramps can also occur as a side effect of some drugs. Medications that can cause muscle cramps include: Furosemide ( Lasix), hydrochlorothiazide ( Microzide), and other diuretics ("water pills") that remove fluid from the body Donepezil ( Aricept), used to treat Alzheimer's disease Neostigmine ( Prostigmine), used for myasthenia gravis Nifedipine ( Procardia), a treatment for angina and high blood pressure Raloxifene ( Evista), an osteoporosis treatment Terbutaline ( Brethine), albuterol ( Proventil and Ventolin), asthma medications Tolcapone ( Tasmar), which helps treat Parkinson's disease Statin medications for cholesterol, such as atorvastatin ( Lipitor), fluvastatin ( Lescol), lovastatin ( Mevacor), pravastatin ( Pravachol), rosuvastatin ( Crestor), or simvastatin ( Zocor) For a charley horse in the calf or a cramp in the back of the thigh (hamstring), try this stretch: Put your weight on the affected leg and bend your knee slightly. |
17425593ba44cc089901e702322946e6 | Can I prevent muscle cramps? | To help stop cramps before they start: Eat more foods high in vitamins and magnesium. Stay well-hydrated. Stretch daily and before exercise. |
1ab1f73c8ff210151fd8ab76e0751788 | What is the benefit of a laparoscopic approach for colorectal cancer? | The benefit of using a laparoscopic approach is that you will likely experience less pain and scarring after surgery, a more rapid recovery, and less risk of infection than with an open surgery through a large incision. |
12ed0b7c8b3a7a4b9e21708e901cb4a4 | How is laparoscopic surgery done for colorectal cancer? | Until recently, all bowel or intestinal surgery was done through long abdominal incisions, which often resulted in a painful and lengthy recovery. In the early 1990s, doctors started using a laparoscope, an instrument that had primarily been used to treat gynecological problems and gallbladder disease, to perform certain types of bowel surgery. Rather than making long incisions common in traditional "open" surgery, laparoscopic surgery requires only small incisions to perform the same operation. Another type of laparoscopic surgery is called hand-assisted and allows for one of the surgeons hands to be inserted into the abdominal cavity while still viewing the procedure with the laparoscope. |
29e060cfcf2a73443da87f44037b7a67 | How is fecal diversion done for colorectal cancer? | This procedure is used to create an ileostomy (opening between the surface of the skin and the small intestine) or colostomy (opening between the surface of the skin and the colon). This is often used as a temporary measure to allow for healing of an infection, recent surgery, or chronic inflammation. |
02ff55a6eaf22a62e23b1564f107f2bd | What are the surgical options to treat colorectal cancer? | Colorectal surgeons have used laparoscopy to treat the following conditions: Crohn's disease Colon cancers Diverticulitis Familial polyposis Certain colon polyps that cannot be removed by colonoscopy Bowel leakage or fecal incontinence Rectal prolapse Ulcerative colitis Certain rectal cancers There are several types of surgery which may be used to treat colorectal cancer: Partial colectomy. As the name suggests, this is when the surgeon removes only part of the colon. The remaining parts will be joined together in a procedure that doctors call anastamosis. If you have a partial colectomy, then your bowel habits should go back to being pretty much the way they were before you had the cancer. Right colectomy, or Ileocolectomy. During a right colectomy, the right side of the colon is removed. During an ileocolectomy, the last segment of the small intestine - which is attached to the right side of the colon, called the ileum, is also removed. Abdominoperineal resection. This is an operation in which the anus, rectum, and sigmoid colon are removed. A permanent colostomy is required, as the anus is removed. Proctosigmoidectomy. In this operation, the diseased section of the rectum and sigmoid colon is removed. Total abdominal colectomy. A total abdominal colectomy is an operation that removes the entire large intestine. Total proctocolectomy. This is the most extensive bowel operation performed and involves the removal of both the rectum and the colon. If the surgeon is able to leave the anus and it works properly, then sometimes an ileal pouch (see below) can be created so that you can go to the bathroom as you did before you had cancer. However, often a permanent ileostomy (see below) is needed, particularly if the anus must be removed, is weak, or has been damaged. |
c757819675bb8b15ce0514bf47750e31 | What is a polypectomy for colorectal cancer? | Polypectomy is a procedure in which polyps -- small growths on the inner lining of the colon -- are removed during a colonoscopy, a procedure in which a special instrument (the colonoscope) is inserted into the rectum to view the rectum and colon. |
39fbcc7acf7363351510cead1cf5d403 | How are stomas or ostomies done for colorectal cancer? | A stoma is an opening of some part of the bowel onto the skin. A colostomy is an opening of the colon onto the skin and an ileostomy is an opening of the ileum (or small intestine) onto the skin. A colostomy or an ileostomy may be permanent or temporary. Permanent stomas are made when stool cannot go through its normal route after surgery. Temporary stomas are made to keep stool away from a damaged or recently operated area while healing occurs. The stool that comes out of a stoma is collected in a bag. |
abcbe23570cebfea74dee6d6bf50d9b0 | How is an ileal (J) pouch done for colorectal cancer? | To replace the rectum and provide a place to store the stool before going to the bathroom after a total proctocolectomy (see above), surgeons can sometimes create a pouch out of the end of the small intestine called the ileum. There are different forms of the ileal pouch, named after the shape in which the end of the small intestine is placed before it is sewn (or stapled) to make a pouch. The most common form is the " J" pouch. Creating the pouch is complicated and it sometimes doesn't work. To improve your chances, the surgeon will make a temporary ileostomy to allow the pouch to heal without having to defend itself from a stream of stool. Usually, the temporary ileostomy can be reversed after about two to three months. |
465fd3ab3262b3541044970e2439359e | How do colorectal surgeons use laparoscopy? | Colorectal surgeons have used laparoscopy to treat the following conditions: Crohn's disease Colon cancers Diverticulitis Familial polyposis Certain colon polyps that cannot be removed by colonoscopy Bowel leakage or fecal incontinence Rectal prolapse Ulcerative colitis Certain rectal cancers There are several types of surgery which may be used to treat colorectal cancer: Partial colectomy. |
15e2bb2f25e252d24938ab5235bee33f | What is laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer? | Laparoscopic surgery The word "laparoscopy" means to look inside the abdominal cavity with a special camera or scope. To perform laparoscopy, between 3 and 6 small (5-10 mm) incisions are made in the abdomen. The laparoscope and special laparoscopic instruments are inserted through these small incisions. The surgeon is then guided by the laparoscope, which transmits a picture of the intestinal organs on a video monitor. |
9ae2c0354d1290d74d813cb927657f16 | How is a K pouch done for colorectal cancer? | K pouch. The K pouch is also known as the "continent ileostomy." Unlike the J pouch (see below), which is attached to the anus to allow you to go to the bathroom the usual way, the K pouch is a fancy form of an ileostomy. Unlike a usual ileostomy which needs to be attached to a bag outside the body, the K pouch provides a reservoir for the stool and adds a nipple valve to prevent the stool from leaking. The pouch is emptied by inserting a stiff catheter through the stoma, which is covered with gauze in between emptying. One problem with the pouch, and the reason it is not very popular among surgeons, is that the valve often comes undone, or slips, and another operation is needed to repair it. The surgery is very complex and long-term problems are common. |
7839a23eec52e625ee61c627c22a58f1 | What is a resection for colorectal cancer? | Resection involves the removal of part, or all, of the colon along with the cancer and its attaching tissues. |
65022706ecc65af6c56ffff7735a0a4b | How can an injury cause keratitis? | Light may hurt your eyes, and you also may have: Blurry vision Lots of tears or a discharge Swelling Several things can lead to keratitis: Injury: Most of the time, keratitis comes from damage to your cornea. You might have been poked in the eye or scratched your eye with your fingernail. It also can happen if you wear your contact lenses too long or wear lenses that don't fit right. The injury may cause the inflammation, but it can also let in bacteria or a fungus that leads to an infection. |
3f459032189786db7f953f6ba931da86 | What are some other causes of keratitis? | Other causes: A lack of vitamin A, some illnesses that involve a problem with your immune system, and diseases that cause very dry eyes can lead to keratitis. |
1f546147c9b167776924ee168a4d42b8 | How do doctors treat keratitis? | If your keratitis is caused by an injury, it usually clears up on its own as your eye heals. You may get an antibiotic ointment to help with symptoms and prevent infection. Infections are treated with prescription eye drops and sometimes antibiotics or antiviral medicine. Keratitis is usually easy to treat and clears up quickly. But if an infection goes deeper than the surface of your cornea, it can leave scars that damage your vision or even cause blindness. |
20a72ceecbd8c936f48438dea5a8ca2c | How can a fungus cause keratitis? | Fungus: It's also very rare to get a fungal infection in your eye. It usually comes from being scratched in the eye by a branch or from contaminated contacts. Eye surgery also can cause this. |
f972cde7d1beaeb4b8b132bb35068fc1 | What is keratitis? | Doctors sometimes use the term "corneal ulcer." It's usually caused by an injury or infection. See your doctor right away if you have a problem with your eyes. Keratitis can become serious quickly. The first sign of keratitis is usually eye pain and redness. |
935ab21ccc2787e84d29ccf866e44439 | How can a parasite cause keratitis? | Parasite: Acanthamoeba is a microorganism that lives just about everywhere -- in the air, soil, and bodies of water. It's even found in tap water. It's harmless most of the time. But it can cause an eye infection, especially if you wear contacts. It's very rare, but also very hard to treat. |
f4ec7bdc23706d3fda6e19aea32dc632 | How can a bacterial infection cause keratitis? | Bacterial infection: This happens less often, but it can be a problem for people who wear contact lenses. Bacteria can grow on your contacts or contact case if you don't clean and store them properly. Extended-wear lenses, the kind you sleep in for days or even weeks at a time, are most likely to lead to this. Infection can also come from contaminated eye drops or contact solution. Or it can happen after eye surgery. |
2772298ea6730aa7803f21512f14dd98 | How can a viral infection cause keratitis? | Viral infection: This is usually herpes simplex, the chicken pox virus, or the common cold. If you're sick, be careful about touching your eyes and keep your hands clean. |
4b611bf8517dca65a89ca49ab7ba1852 | What is a lumbar laminotomy? | Sometimes your surgeon will also need to remove a small piece of bone called the lamina from the vertebra. The lamina forms a protective cover over your spinal cord. Removing part or all of it helps the surgeon access your herniated disk. It also can relieve pressure on your nerves and eliminate leg pain and sciatica. |
71538f7352d2021631d0294e6bc0f3a0 | What is a diskectomy? | During this procedure, your surgeon removes your damaged disk to relieve pressure on your nerves. He can perform the surgery in a couple of ways: Your surgeons performs open diskectomy is via a cut in your back or neck. Microdiscectomy is done through a much smaller incision. Your surgeon inserts a thin tube with a camera on one end to see and remove the damaged disk. |
648247323f6276e5047495e08efbbd73 | How can I prevent getting another herniated disk? | To protect your spine and prevent another herniated disk, you should always sit and stand up straight. If you have to stand for a long period of time, rest one foot on a stool or box to take pressure off your back. Be careful when you lift anything heavy. Squat from your knees to pick it up. Don't bend from the waist. It puts too much pressure on your back. Stay at a good weight for you. Extra pounds put more strain on your back. Don't smoke. It can cause hardening of the arteries, which can damage the disks in your spine. |
3e7b3bc783134c6284159927d6779b19 | What is a spinal fusion? | After a diskectomy or laminotomy, your surgeon may fuse together the two vertebrae on either side of the disk to stabilize your spine. This is called spinal fusion. Fusing the two disks will stop the bones from moving and prevent you from having any more pain. |
448599e7d5d9f9aa8e9ffb15b2bece28 | Will surgery treat a herniated disk? | Most people with a herniated disk don't need surgery. Rest and other treatments should start to improve your symptoms within 4 to 6 weeks. But if your pain doesn't improve, surgery might be an option. Talk to your doctor about surgery if: You're not getting relief from pain relievers, injections, and physical therapy. Your symptoms keep getting worse. You have trouble standing or walking. You can't control your bowels or bladder. |
f9957633c6b491ad72e3d43ce7601470 | How do fungi spread? | Fungi enter your body through tiny cracks in your skin. You can catch them by touching someone who has them. You can also catch fungi if your bare feet come in contact with them. This might happen when you walk barefoot in warm, moist areas, like a locker room or public pool. |
2d9074a78f8e2d1a87773d0e877daf7f | How contagious is foot fungus? | Not as much as you might think. Foot fungus loves wet places, but you might have a better chance of catching it if you don't wash or dry your feet well, or don't change your socks and shoes often. |
f6602d0b00a4d836a63bf5e61ba827e5 | What are symptoms of too high or low blood sugar levels? | When your blood sugar is high, you can get symptoms like a foggy-headed feeling that makes it hard to focus or think clearly. Your energy may also take a dive, and you may feel nervous or moody. If your levels go too low, you could even pass out. In the long run, if your blood sugar stays up, you could be at risk for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, or other problems. |
d1ee4a637379e6fe48876debc00dca5e | How much is normal for my blood sugar to spike after eating? | What levels are too high after a meal? Experts vary on what the number should be, but the ADA says a general goal is a blood sugar level under 180 mg/d L, 1 to 2 hours after a meal. Talk to your doctor about what you should aim for, and don't adjust your medicine without speaking to him first. |
e1881542ffc89c0f831312857ed9d145 | Is it normal for my blood sugar to spike after eating if I have diabetes? | If you're trying to manage diabetes, you already know it's important to keep track of your blood sugar levels. But how do you handle a spike that comes after you eat? It's called "postprandial" blood glucose, and if you take some simple steps, you can get it under control and help avoid health problems. |
36a8bae7a6f3e95f3e96b544c9179c90 | Does managing blood sugar before meals help spikes after meals? | Keep blood sugar in check before meals. That way, even if it goes up after you eat, it won't be so dramatic. |
768241d9086da732739030d434e86056 | Will walking after dinner help with post-meal blood sugar spikes? | Go for an after-dinner walk. It's a healthy habit for everyone, but if you have diabetes, it's also a good way to burn extra glucose from a meal. |
7e795affafc3bbdfd108fab4704e871d | Can medicine help manage my after-meal spikes? | Get medicine that works for you. The right insulin or medication program can make a big difference. In general, to cover after-meal spikes, those that kick in quickly and for a short time are a better choice than ones that work slowly over a long period. Your doctor can explain your options. |
9e32cd008e6aa920d34c47275575d330 | How does medicine manage blood sugar spikes? | Get medicine that works for you. The right insulin or medication program can make a big difference. In general, to cover after-meal spikes, those that kick in quickly and for a short time are a better choice than ones that work slowly over a long period. Your doctor can explain your options. |
a6c8dfd0fea10e5997db6da9a10375e7 | How does watching what you eat manage blood sugar spikes? | They tend to trigger post-meal spikes. The type of fat you eat may play a role, as well. One study shows you may be able to curb blood sugar spikes after you eat if you skip foods with lots of butter and choose a meal made with a little olive oil instead. |
e22f354267d5135cf3a0cf408c35c455 | What blood sugar levels are too high after a meal? | Experts vary on what the number should be, but the ADA says a general goal is a blood sugar level under 180 mg/d L, 1 to 2 hours after a meal. Talk to your doctor about what you should aim for, and don't adjust your medicine without speaking to him first. |
8c2f7762e9addd9fe3409e193b4954fd | Who may be on your treatment team for heart failure? | Your group may include: Doctors Nurses Dietitians Exercise experts Physical and occupational therapists Mental health specialists How long your program will last depends on your needs. |
87c5336bd1de4a363460d7aabb6af821 | Do I need emotional support for my heart failure? | Support: Depression and anxiety are common for people with heart disease. Emotional and psychological support is an important part of your treatment and recovery. Your team may include a mental health specialist, or your team may refer you to support groups or classes. |
8f2b2d6988657eee66ec183d44a50cf1 | How can relaxation techniques be an itch buster for eczema irritation? | Relaxation techniques: There's a strong link between stress and your skin. Plus, you're prone to scratch more when your emotions are running high. Self-hypnosis, meditation, and biofeedback therapy have all been shown to ease eczema symptoms. You may also want to see a therapist. Doing so can ease stress. It can also help you change habits or negative thought patterns that may be adding to your skin problems. |
e79a96c4dfe234260132f3b7614b7a38 | Do I still need the shingles vaccine if I've never had chickenpox? | Shingrix is recommended for everyone age 50 and older, whether or not you remember having had chickenpox. If I've had shingles, can I still get the vaccine? Yes. |
e98fa8d813416e85fb69b28b39fa6d7e | What other prescriptions can treat shingles? | If you have severe pain after the rash clears or an infection during your shingles outbreak, your doctor might prescribe: Capsaicin cream: Be careful not to get it in your eyes. A numbing medicine: You might get lidocaine ( Lidoderm, Xylocaine) for pain. It can come in a variety of forms, such as creams, lotions, patches, powders, and sprays, among others. Antibiotics : You might need these medicines if bacteria infect your skin and rashes. But if bacteria aren't involved, then antibiotics won't help. Tricyclic antidepressants : There are many of these medications that might help ease the pain that lingers after your skin has healed, such as amitriptyline, desipramine ( Norpramin), and nortriptyline ( Aventyl, Pamelor). They may also help you with depression, if you have that in addition to shingles. Your doctor can tell you what the risks and benefits are. |
cf1e52b02b95aa52037a72bfc1147001 | How are antiviral medications used to treat shingles? | They include: These medicines may slow down the progress of the shingles rash, especially if you take them within the first 72 hours of having symptoms. They can also lower your chance of having complications. Your doctor may prescribe: Acyclovir ( Zovirax) Famciclovir ( Famvir) Valacyclovir ( Valtrex) Talk with your doctor or pharmacist about side effects to watch for if you're put on one these. |
b31efd6d9eea6b3c1d205b84c4fd6cf1 | Who shouldn't get the shingles vaccine? | Don't get the Shingrix vaccine if: You're allergic to any of the ingredients. You have a weak immune system, either because of a condition or due to certain medicines. You're pregnant or nursing. You have tested negative for immunity to the chicken pox virus. Ask your doctor about the chicken pox vaccine instead. You have shingles now. Also, besides the conditions stated above, do not get the Zostavax vaccine if you have a weakened immune or you may become pregnant within the next 4 weeks following the shot. |
f7bec32272f5dd19a55a6f9de2ec141e | Should I still get the shingles vaccine if I've already had shingles? | It may help prevent you having another bout of shingles later on. If you have shingles right now, you should wait until the rash is gone before you get vaccinated. |
22882caaf468fe93714e0b30ea705fa6 | What is neuromyelitis optica (Devic's disease)? | This rare disease can affect your eyes, arms, and legs. Doctors don't know what causes it, but they do know it makes your body attack your optic nerve and spinal cord. You may have blurred vision or lose your eyesight. If it's in your spinal cord, your legs and arms might not work well. If you have one attack of neuromyelitis optica, you'll probably get another. But if your doctor catches the disease early, he'll have a better chance of treating your symptoms. He may try drugs that turn down your immune system so you don't have relapses. |
9f137e6e1d782c2b952e9d0895b98c6f | What is the recovery timeline of acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)? | Most people recover fully within 6 months, though in very rare cases, ADEM can be deadly. |
5217150d7e7775be45c33dd8b7a2869f | Is there a cure for Balo's disease (concentric sclerosis)? | They include: High fever Headache Trouble talking or understanding information Memory loss Muscle spasms Seizures Paralysis There isn't a cure for Balo's disease, and no drugs treat it. Your doctor can suggest medications to help with your symptoms, including steroids to bring down the swelling in your brain and spinal cord. |
d3c4a90acf54acbdb7574aaadc0faa86 | Is there a cure for Schilder's disease? | Signs include: Weakness on one side of the body Slow movements Seizures Trouble speaking Vision and hearing problems Memory problems Change in personality Weight loss There's no cure, but some people can manage their symptoms well with steroids and drugs that calm the immune system. |
e5f14aa1718a7a541cc7b4507f6097da | What are symptoms of neuromyelitis optica (Devic's disease)? | Symptoms include: Blurred vision Loss of eyesight Eye pain Weak or numb arms and legs Bladder and bowel problems Vomiting Uncontrollable hiccups Neuromyelitis optica doesn't have a cure or FDA-approved medications to treat it. |
2591f16b3f888b4623e8c6590263565d | What are symptoms of Schilder's disease? | Signs include: Weakness on one side of the body Slow movements Seizures Trouble speaking Vision and hearing problems Memory problems Change in personality Weight loss There's no cure, but some people can manage their symptoms well with steroids and drugs that calm the immune system. |
8edb689501621748ee2697232a6d7edd | Is there a cure for HTLV-I associated myelopathy (HAM)? | The most common symptoms are: Extreme fatigue Vision problems Trouble moving Tingling, burning, or other odd feelings There's no cure, but there are medications to change the course and lower the number of relapses. |
ff57d919e5d8dd4e341ed27b605e657e | What is the best way to treat acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)? | They include: Fever Low energy Headache Nausea and vomiting Confusion Irritation Eyesight problems Trouble with coordination Drugs that fight inflammation a can stop the damage to the nerves in your brain and spinal cord. A doctor also can prescribe other medicine to ease some ADEM symptoms. |
8e6ab1417c91603d11cdd2b983d350d5 | I have a demyelinating disorder, what is the best way to treat acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)? | They include: Fever Low energy Headache Nausea and vomiting Confusion Irritation Eyesight problems Trouble with coordination Drugs that fight inflammation a can stop the damage to the nerves in your brain and spinal cord. A doctor also can prescribe other medicine to ease some ADEM symptoms. |
bc8aee15c6f7a895e086114f81ab1fee | What is acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)? | Sometimes it affects the optic nerve, which connects your eye to your brain. You get ADEM when your body attacks its own tissues in response to an infection with a virus or bacteria. It's rare, but it can also be a reaction to a vaccine. Sometimes the cause is unknown. |
faf0fd3d69562f67fcdf98fc70b02556 | What is HTLV-I associated myelopathy? | This condition results from a virus called HTLV-1. It can make your brain and spinal cord swell, which causes the symptoms of the disease. Not everyone who has the virus will get HAM. Some people also carry HTLV-1 but have no symptoms. |
f4d6d9212ecd16ce5077396fc69b2309 | Is there a cure for neuromyelitis optica? | Symptoms include: Blurred vision Loss of eyesight Eye pain Weak or numb arms and legs Bladder and bowel problems Vomiting Uncontrollable hiccups Neuromyelitis optica doesn't have a cure or FDA-approved medications to treat it. Your doctor may give you a steroid shot to help with swelling. He may also try a treatment called plasma exchange. |
09bab870e4ee85b99804a8f165b0c44a | What is the most common demyelinating disorder? | There are several demyelinating diseases: This is the most common demyelinating disorder. One in 500 people have it. It's an autoimmune condition that attacks your brain, spinal cord, and optic nerve. There are four types, ranging from mild to severe. |
cc62671971b3a4832ed7ce92144d655b | How long does it take to recover from disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM)? | Most people recover fully within 6 months, though in very rare cases, ADEM can be deadly. |
f9500bc803cb69ff8a5978832517204e | What are the signs of Schilder's disease? | This disease is hard to predict. Some people will have flares of symptoms followed by times of recovery. For others, the disease slowly gets worse over time. Signs include: Weakness on one side of the body Slow movements Seizures Trouble speaking Vision and hearing problems Memory problems Change in personality Weight loss There's no cure, but some people can manage their symptoms well with steroids and drugs that calm the immune system. |
6e42e742d9c2583ff2fbadcea01b7a90 | What are the symptoms of Balo's disease? | They include: High fever Headache Trouble talking or understanding information Memory loss Muscle spasms Seizures Paralysis There isn't a cure for Balo's disease, and no drugs treat it. |
333074cd30dc324c26e819d82d44b1ae | What is Schilder's disease? | This rare condition most often affects boys between ages 7 and 12. It wears away myelin in the brain and spinal cord. Severe cases can affect breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. |
dd5877cc4823cc1051d386750f091e6f | What is neuromyelitis optica? | This rare disease can affect your eyes, arms, and legs. Doctors don't know what causes it, but they do know it makes your body attack your optic nerve and spinal cord. You may have blurred vision or lose your eyesight. If it's in your spinal cord, your legs and arms might not work well. |
141d2760b909f80b7297ab3582a51e45 | Who normally gets attack of neuromyelitis optica? | If you have one attack of neuromyelitis optica, you'll probably get another. But if your doctor catches the disease early, he'll have a better chance of treating your symptoms. He may try drugs that turn down your immune system so you don't have relapses. |
7fb5efc8641ccc102f3bcab5911d07a3 | What are symptoms of neuromyelitis optica? | Symptoms include: Blurred vision Loss of eyesight Eye pain Weak or numb arms and legs Bladder and bowel problems Vomiting Uncontrollable hiccups Neuromyelitis optica doesn't have a cure or FDA-approved medications to treat it. |
ff48855f28dddc945d3885f8641fa2b8 | What is the cure for HTLV-I Associated Myelopathy? | The most common symptoms are: Extreme fatigue Vision problems Trouble moving Tingling, burning, or other odd feelings There's no cure, but there are medications to change the course and lower the number of relapses. |
77787a4de431e5eeb918d84e370f4104 | Who is more likely to get breast cancer? | Women over 50 are more likely to get breast cancer than younger women. |
a266ddd37959b430c4e0d912b1817699 | Why is thyroid disease sometimes confused with menopause? | According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists ( AACE), millions of women with menopausal-like symptoms, even those taking estrogen, may be suffering from undiagnosed thyroid disease. While symptoms such as fatigue, depression, mood swings, and sleep disturbances are frequently associated with menopause, they may also be signs of hypothyroidism. |
53780b4e41f0dbc1b7da70e3b77ea1b4 | Can having a sense of humor keep you from getting sick? | It curbs the levels of stress hormones in your body and boosts a type of white blood cell that fights infection. Just anticipating a funny event can have a positive effect on your immune system. In one study, men were told 3 days in advance that they were going to watch a funny video. Their levels of stress hormones dropped. |
1382c8f35a2f47ad2dc2cc9d5a700f1e | How can my diet affect my immune system? | This effect lasts for at least a few hours after downing a couple of sugary drinks. Eat more fruits and vegetables, which are rich in nutrients like vitamins C and E, plus beta-carotene and zinc. Go for a wide variety of brightly colored fruits and vegetables, including berries, citrus fruits, kiwi, apples, red grapes, kale, onions, spinach, sweet potatoes, and carrots. Other foods particularly good for your immune system include fresh garlic, which may help fight viruses and bacteria, and old-fashioned chicken soup. If you do come down with a cold or the flu, a bowl of chicken soup can help you get well faster, one study shows. Some mushroom varieties -- such as shiitake -- may also help your immune system. |
95be7e3a1e1e26d7a2c32c01d0042668 | Can stress affect my immune system? | If stress drags on for a long time, it makes you more vulnerable to illness, from colds to serious diseases. Chronic stress exposes your body to a steady stream of stress hormones that suppress the immune system. |
3db4aae4b58f42d559594a723c7540df | What can I do to treat bronchitis? | Here are some things you can do to ease your symptoms: Drink a lot of water. Eight to 12 glasses a day help thin out your mucus and makes it easier to cough it up. Get plenty of rest. Take over-the-counter pain relievers with ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin), naproxen ( Aleve), or aspirin to help with pain, but avoid giving aspirin to children. You can use acetaminophen ( Tylenol) to help with pain and fever. Use a humidifier or try steam to loosen up the mucus; a hot shower can work well. |
0c1756a5783c66361a2cba57d5d90d5d | What are the symptoms of pneumonia? | Call your doctor if your cough: Brings up mucus that thickens or darkens in color Keeps you awake at night Lasts more than 3 weeks You'll also want to call your doctor if you have a cough and: A foul-tasting fluid in our mouth (this could be reflux) Fever over 100.4 F Wheezing or shortness of breath Pneumonia symptoms can be mild or severe based on what causes it, your age, and your overall health. The most common symptoms are: Cough (you might bring up yellow, green, or even bloody mucus) Fever Shaking chills Shortness of breath (for some people, this happens only when they climb stairs) You may also have: Chest pain (you might get a stabbing or sharp pain that's worse when you cough or take a deep breath) Confusion (more common for adults 65 and older) Run-down feeling Headache Heavy sweating and clammy, damp skin Throwing up or feeling like you might Call your doctor if you have a cough that won't go away or you're coughing up pus. |
8e0d8727683199a1368ca1cf05ef1c67 | When should I call my doctor for pneumonia? | The most common symptoms are: Cough (you might bring up yellow, green, or even bloody mucus) Fever Shaking chills Shortness of breath (for some people, this happens only when they climb stairs) You may also have: Chest pain (you might get a stabbing or sharp pain that's worse when you cough or take a deep breath) Confusion (more common for adults 65 and older) Run-down feeling Headache Heavy sweating and clammy, damp skin Throwing up or feeling like you might Call your doctor if you have a cough that won't go away or you're coughing up pus. Other symptoms that could spur a call: Chest pain Fever that stays at 102 F or higher Shaking chills Shortness of breath as you go about your day Trouble breathing Unable to keep liquids down Most often, the same viruses that give you a cold or the flu also cause bronchitis. |
d302855051533328b4eafb8f6674e7d2 | When should I call my doctor for bronchitis? | Call your doctor if your cough: Brings up mucus that thickens or darkens in color Keeps you awake at night Lasts more than 3 weeks You'll also want to call your doctor if you have a cough and: A foul-tasting fluid in our mouth (this could be reflux) Fever over 100.4 F Wheezing or shortness of breath Pneumonia symptoms can be mild or severe based on what causes it, your age, and your overall health. |
a736250254b41712cd0f6d3c967208dc | What causes pneumonia? | Pneumonia can be caused by: Bacteria Certain chemicals Fungi Mycoplasmas, which are like bacteria and give you milder symptoms (sometimes called âwalking pneumoniaâ) Viruses (the same ones that cause colds and the flu can also give you pneumonia) As your body fights off the germs, your lungs' air sacs swell and may fill with fluid or pus, much like your bronchial tubes swell and fill with mucus when you have bronchitis. |
53040db8cfeb96ae5012e7107f951a0f | How is pneumonia treated? | If it's caused by a virus, you may get an antiviral drug. And if it's really severe, you may need to go to the hospital, though that's not as common. To help ease your symptoms, you can do many of the same things as with bronchitis: Drink plenty of fluids Get as much rest as you can Take pain relievers for pain and fever And again, it's best to avoid cough medicines. In fact, there's actually very little proof that they can help with the cough you get from pneumonia. Pneumonia usually runs its course within a few weeks with treatment, but you may be tired for as long as a month. |
d43cb4d90ad27a8f1f66fe3e509ab760 | How can cervical position help you know where you are in your fertility cycle? | Another way to learn about where you are in your fertility cycle is to check the position of your cervix. If you put two fingers into your vagina, you should feel the cervix at the end. Before you ovulate, it should feel hard and dry, like the tip of your nose. During ovulation, you should notice that it seems to have shifted higher and that it feels softer and wetter. But you should always make sure that your hands are clean before you start poking around. And since it may be hard to tell exactly what you're looking for, you may want to talk to your doctor first. |
418127a98c16fa2a4adb7fee93f46934 | What is the pattern of cervical mucus changes for a woman with a 28-day cycle? | For a woman with a 28-day cycle, the pattern of changes in her cervical mucus could look something like this: Days 1-5: Menstruation happens. Days 6-9: Vagina is dry with little to no mucus. Days 10-12: Sticky, thick mucus appears, gradually becoming less thick and more white. Days 13-15: Mucus becomes thin, slippery, stretchy, and clear -- like egg whites. This is the most fertile stage. Days 16-21: Mucus becomes sticky and thick again. Days 22-28: Vagina becomes dry. But your cycle could be very different from this pattern, which is why it's useful to mark changes on your own fertility chart. Ideally, you should check your cervical mucus every day, possibly every time you go to the bathroom. If you rub some toilet paper or your fingers -- after washing your hands -- over the opening of your vagina, you should be able to find cervical mucus. Examine the color and consistency between your fingers, and write down what you find. |
e4130b0b3f30c3d31afc535fde7f66da | What's the best thing to do for a stuffy nose at home? | Salt-water rinsing helps break nasal congestion, while also removing virus particles and bacteria from your nose. Here's a popular recipe: Mix 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water. Use a bulb syringe or nasal irrigation kit to squirt water into the nose. Hold one nostril closed by applying light finger pressure while squirting the salt mixture into the other nostril. Let it drain. Repeat two to three times, then treat the other nostril. |
c907e796c4ac5f74056d2ace15d50f4d | What should I do about severe cold or flu symptoms? | Here are some good foods to eat when you're battling a cold or flu: Bananas and rice to soothe an upset stomach and curb diarrhea Vitamin C-containing foods like bell peppers Blueberries curb diarrhea and are high in natural aspirin, which may lower fevers and help with aches and pains Carrots, which contain beta-carotene Chili peppers may open sinuses, and help break up mucus in the lungs Cranberries may help prevent bacteria from sticking to cells lining the bladder and urinary tract Mustard or horseradish may helps break up mucus in air passages Onions contain phytochemicals purported to help the body clear bronchitis and other infections Black and green tea contain catechin, a phytochemical purported to have natural antibiotic and anti-diarrhea effects Remember, serious conditions, such as sinus infections, bronchitis, meningitis, strep throat, and asthma, can look like the common cold. If you have severe symptoms, or don't seem to be getting better, call your doctor. |
ed5ed5bb0ae3cd76e0ac9f12489e5571 | What is the best way to use a salve when sick? | A small dab of mentholated salve under your nose can help to open breathing passages and restore the irritated skin at the base of the nose. Menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor all have mild numbing ingredients that may help relieve the pain of a nose rubbed raw. However, only put it on the outside, under your nose, not inside your nose. |
6ee9b73c71ab8eae4f2df062acbfcade | What are the best foods to eat for a cold or the flu? | Here are some good foods to eat when you're battling a cold or flu: Bananas and rice to soothe an upset stomach and curb diarrhea Vitamin C-containing foods like bell peppers Blueberries curb diarrhea and are high in natural aspirin, which may lower fevers and help with aches and pains Carrots, which contain beta-carotene Chili peppers may open sinuses, and help break up mucus in the lungs Cranberries may help prevent bacteria from sticking to cells lining the bladder and urinary tract Mustard or horseradish may helps break up mucus in air passages Onions contain phytochemicals purported to help the body clear bronchitis and other infections Black and green tea contain catechin, a phytochemical purported to have natural antibiotic and anti-diarrhea effects Remember, serious conditions, such as sinus infections, bronchitis, meningitis, strep throat, and asthma, can look like the common cold. |
31764a1f50923f9ac40be56db4876b96 | How does resting help a cold or the flu? | Staying warm and resting when you first come down with a cold or the flu helps your body direct its energy toward the immune battle. |
ddbc49d81a340fbbc89df0e1e0133d48 | Can medication help back pain? | If needed, medication can help relieve pain allowing you to sleep better. These may include pain killers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and topical treatments. Short-term use of sleep medications may also help some people with sleep problems. |
fdc2038728ca465079ec7d0454a0bbc1 | What do prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels indicate in the diagnosis for metastatic prostate cancer? | PSA is a protein made by the prostate gland. A rise in PSA is one of the first signs your cancer may be growing. But PSA levels can also be high without there being cancer, such as if you have an enlarged prostate or a prostate infection. If you've been treated, especially if a surgeon removed your prostate, your PSA levels should start to go down. Doctors usually wait several weeks after surgery before checking PSA levels. A rise in PSA after treatment may suggest the possibility cancer is back or spreading. In that case, your doctor may order the same tests used to diagnose the original cancer, including a CT scan, MRI, or bone scan. The radiotracer Axumin could be used along with a PET scan to help detect and localize any recurrent cancer. Though very rare, it's possible to have metastatic prostate cancer without a higher-than-normal PSA level. |
63f3ce8ee21ae72d8344c1a64d44908f | What does it mean if you have locally advanced metastatic prostate cancer? | The goals of treatment are to: Manage symptoms Slow the rate your cancer grows Shrink the tumor Some cancers are called "locally advanced." That means the cancer has spread from the prostate to nearby tissue. It's not the same as metastatic cancer since it hasn't spread to other parts of your body. Many locally advanced prostate cancers can be cured. |
50e392468836cf44148eb5370e9c3f52 | What are the chances of developing metastatic prostate cancer? | About 50% of men diagnosed with local prostate cancer will get metastatic cancer during their lifetime. Finding cancer early and treating it can lower that rate. A small percentage of men aren't diagnosed with prostate cancer until it has become metastatic. Doctors can find out if it's metastatic cancer when they take a small sample of the tissue and study the cells. |
aa0961e331b5239609cf67ff73cdf27d | What if you hate exercise but need to treat high triglycerides? | Solution: You're more likely to make exercise a part of your healthier life if it's convenient and enjoyable. It also helps to work out with a buddy who shares your goals. If you have aches or pains, see if your doctor can recommend a physical therapist. Your health insurance company may cover the cost if your doctor refers you. If your insurer doesn't cover physical therapy, also check out certified personal trainers to design a custom approach to exercise that will work with your lifestyle. |
eae34f771ed92c991ed82eed351ddec9 | How is pulsatile tinnitus treated? | Other tests might include: Brainstem auditory evoked response ( BAER), which times electrical waves from your brain in response to clicks in your ear Electrocochleography, which is similar to BAER but uses an electrode placed on or in your eardrum Scans of your brain and blood vessels, such as an MRI or CT scan Blood tests This kind of tinnitus is often the first clue that you have something else going on that needs to be treated. Your treatment plan will depend on what's causing your tinnitus. You may need medication or surgery repair a blood vessel. Once the condition that caused it is treated, the sound should stop. |
fa0171ab0c82601fe3432ce8f7f0dc22 | How can high blood pressure cause pulsatile tinnitus? | This can lead to a change in blood flow, and things like stress, alcohol, and caffeine can make the noise more noticeable. |
062ad3e214574d120fd192eb109e2f9d | How is pulsatile tinnitus diagnosed? | You may need to see an ear specialist called an otolaryngologist. You'll have a hearing test, and the doctor will check your ears. She may also look at your jaw and check your eyes for signs of increased pressure in your brain. Other tests might include: Brainstem auditory evoked response ( BAER), which times electrical waves from your brain in response to clicks in your ear Electrocochleography, which is similar to BAER but uses an electrode placed on or in your eardrum Scans of your brain and blood vessels, such as an MRI or CT scan Blood tests This kind of tinnitus is often the first clue that you have something else going on that needs to be treated. |
2561ca1cc9e039c79def4ea41a13313b | What can you do if you might have pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)? | Talk to your doctor if you're having trouble with shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, or swelling in your legs and ankles. They can do some tests to find out what's going on. It's important to get the right diagnosis so you can get the right treatment. The sooner you treat PAH, the easier it is to control. |
697ce36f4fa0101579144b3d10564290 | What causes pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)? | Some things make you more likely to get the disease: A family history of the condition Other diseases of the heart and lungs Obesity If you've used some street drugs, like cocaine, or diet medicines Living at high altitudes Most people get PAH when another illness has damaged their heart or lungs. The most common problems that raise your pulmonary blood pressure are: Heart problems: Conditions like mitral valve disease or long-term high blood pressure damage the left side of the heart to the point that it doesn't work well. That makes blood back up in the blood vessels of the lungs. Lung diseases: When there's a problem in your lungs, your body tries to protect its oxygen supply. It keeps the blood away from damaged areas and forces it into healthy areas. It can happen if you have sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD), and diseases that scar the lungs, like emphysema. Blood clots Other diseases, including some blood disorders, thyroid disease and other metabolic disorders, and immune system disorders that affect many different parts of the body, like sarcoidosis and vasculitis. |
5f7b6e167ba902c7dead25cd044b0f43 | What is pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)? | Pulmonary arterial hypertension, or PAH, is a type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in your lungs and the right side of your heart. It's a very serious condition that can change your day-to-day life. When you get the right diagnosis, though, you can get the care you need to ease your symptoms. |
1e9264f4fafafe868e28f2fd5a751218 | What is pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) like? | Many people have PAH for a long time before they realize something is wrong. The symptoms are subtle at first. You may just feel tired or out of shape. And your doctor may mistake your condition for something more common. |
46adcea95199c2dea4db16f3e7bab0a2 | What are the early symptoms of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)? | The early symptoms are: Shortness of breath during normal physical activity Fatigue Chest pains A racing heartbeat As the disease gets worse, you may also have: Lightheadedness Fainting Swelling in your legs, hands, or belly Dry cough, sometimes with blood Blue lips or fingers Many people who get PAH are women between the ages of 30 and 60. |
77826ba7385ce799f5842d1d81f16a4d | What is pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) like as it gets worse? | The early symptoms are: Shortness of breath during normal physical activity Fatigue Chest pains A racing heartbeat As the disease gets worse, you may also have: Lightheadedness Fainting Swelling in your legs, hands, or belly Dry cough, sometimes with blood Blue lips or fingers Many people who get PAH are women between the ages of 30 and 60. |
3ce7178b80daa34376288089db5be849 | What happens to your body if you have pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH)? | Your heart pumps blood through your arteries, sending oxygen to all parts of your body. In a single heartbeat, the left side of your heart sends the blood out to your body, and blood returns to the right side from your body. The right side then pumps it through the pulmonary artery to the lungs, where it swaps carbon dioxide for oxygen. The oxygen-filled blood goes back to the left side of the heart, and the process starts again with the next heartbeat. It's a short distance from your heart to your lungs. So normally, the right side doesn't have to pump very hard. But with PAH, blood doesn't move easily through the arteries in your lungs. Your heart works much harder to force it through. Over time, the heart muscle gets weak. It can become enlarged and stop working properly. When your blood doesn't flow well, your body doesn't get enough oxygen. |
52bfacb669c5cd15235b22ffa102d115 | What is a 24-hour esophageal pH test? | Instead of having to have a tube placed down your nose for 24 hours, your doctor will place a disposable capsule into the esophagus using an endoscope. |
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