prompt
stringlengths 12
164
| completion
stringlengths 5
3.27k
|
|---|---|
What can people with diabetes do to prevent infections? | Exercise regularly to keep your blood flow healthy. Watch your blood sugar levels and follow your diet as your doctor directs. If you keep your blood sugar and weight under control, you may have fewer foot problems. Don't smoke. Smoking can narrow your blood vessels and raise your chance of getting foot problems. Also, note any cuts, scratches, scrapes, blisters, corns, or calluses, even if they're small. Let your doctor or podiatrist know in case you need medical treatment. |
What kind of tools should people with diabetes use to clean toenails or remove calluses? | You don't want to step on rocks, tacks, or small pieces of glass that could cut your feet. You can use a pumice stone to gently smooth your heels after taking a shower or bath. Ask your podiatrist or doctor to remove it safely. |
What should I do if I am diabetic and think I have a foot infection? | If you think you've gotten an infection, tell your doctor right away. Nails that seem thicker, yellow, changed in shape, striped, or not growing normally could be a sign of an injury or infection. |
How can you prevent ingrown toenails? | This could cause an ingrown toenail. They often develop on the balls of your feet or the bottoms of your toes. |
What should I do if I am diabetic and think I have an ulcer? | Watch for dry, cracking skin on your feet, toes, and heels. Don't let the corners of your toenails grow into the skin. Tell your doctor if you think you have one. |
What are the symptoms of hyperkalemia? | Potassium also: Moves nutrients into your cells and takes waste out Counters the effects of sodium, which can help your blood pressure Your kidneys control how much potassium is in your body by filtering any excess out of your blood. Having too much potassium in the body can alter the heart's rhythm. |
What is the treatment for hyperkalemia? | Potassium also: Moves nutrients into your cells and takes waste out Counters the effects of sodium, which can help your blood pressure Your kidneys control how much potassium is in your body by filtering any excess out of your blood. Adults should get at least 4,700 milligrams of potassium every day. If you have a low potassium level, you can get muscle weakness and cramps. |
How are electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) used for mixed features of bipolar episode? | Electroconvulsive Therapy ( ECT) Despite its frightening reputation, electroconvulsive therapy ( ECT) is an effective treatment for any phase of bipolar disorder, including manic episodes with mixed features. ECT can be helpful if medication fails or can't be used. |
How are mood stabilizers used for mixed features of bipolar episode? | Mood Stabilizers While lithium is often considered a gold standard treatment for mania, it may be less effective when mania and depression occur simultaneously, as in a manic episode with mixed features. Lithium has been used for more than 60 years to treat bipolar disorder. It can take weeks to work fully, making it better for maintenance treatment than for acute manic episodes. Blood levels of lithium and other lab test results must be monitored to avoid side effects. Valproic acid ( Depakote) is an antiseizure medication that also levels out moods in bipolar disorder. It has a more rapid onset of action, and in some studies has been shown to be more effective than lithium for the treatment of manic episodes with mixed features. Some other antiseizure drugs, such as and carbamazepine ( Tegretol) and lamotrigine ( Lamictal), are also effective mood stabilizers. |
What is the best way to manage hair loss due to radiation therapy? | Some people choose to cut their hair short before treatment begins to make less weight on the hair shaft. If you lose hair on top of your head, be sure to wear a hat or a scarf to protect your scalp from the sun when you go outside. If you decide to buy a wig, ask the doctor to write a prescription for one and check to see if it's covered by your insurance or is a tax-deductible expense. |
What are other possible early side effects from radiation therapy? | Other early side effects you might have usually depend on where you get the radiation. |
What should you know about radiation therapy? | When you get radiation therapy, you'll work with a doctor who specializes in this type of medicine. It's important to talk with her about how the treatment might make you feel and what you can do to feel better. If the therapy makes you uncomfortable, speak up. If you keep your health team informed, they can help you get through treatment. |
How can radiation therapy affect men? | But if you want to have kids later on, you should talk with your doctor to see if you should use a sperm bank before treatment begins. Treatment to the pelvis can make sex painful for some women and can also cause scarring that makes the vagina less able to stretch. In men, radiation can affect the nerves and blood vessels that control erections. |
When do late side effects from radiation therapy happen? | These problems happen when radiation damages your body. For example, scar tissue can affect the way your lungs or your heart works. Bladder, bowel, fertility, and sexual problems can start after radiation to your belly or pelvis. |
How can you keep a healthy diet while having radiation therapy? | Eating Problems Radiation therapy to the head, neck, or parts of the digestive system can make you lose your appetite. But it's important to keep eating a healthy diet while you're having treatment to keep your body strong. Try eating five or six small meals spread out through the day instead of three large ones. Try new recipes or foods. Keep healthy snacks on hand. It will help you eat when you're hungry rather than waiting for mealtimes and maybe losing your appetite. |
How can you manage nausea from radiation therapy? | Nausea Radiation to the head, neck, and any part of the digestive tract can cause nausea and vomiting. Let your doctor know if that happens. She can give you medicine to control it. Also, you might be able to learn relaxation techniques and biofeedback to help control and reduce feelings of nausea. |
What mouth problems can radiation therapy cause? | Mouth Problems Before you start radiation to your head or neck, see your dentist for a thorough exam. Radiation can cause problems in your mouth that include: Mouth sores (little cuts or ulcers) Lack of saliva Thick saliva Trouble swallowing Jaw stiffness Tell your cancer team about any of these problems so they can help you feel better. |
How can you manage diarrhea from radiation therapy? | Diarrhea Radiation therapy to your belly can cause diarrhea, which typically starts a few weeks after therapy begins. The doctor will likely prescribe medications to help control it. She'll also suggest changes in your diet, such as eating small meals more often, avoiding high-fiber foods, and getting enough potassium. |
How can you avoid mouth problems for radiation therapy? | Radiation can cause problems in your mouth that include: Mouth sores (little cuts or ulcers) Lack of saliva Thick saliva Trouble swallowing Jaw stiffness Tell your cancer team about any of these problems so they can help you feel better. To help manage these side effects: Avoid spicy and acidic foods. Don't smoke, chew tobacco, or drink alcohol. Brush your teeth often with fluoride toothpaste and a soft brush. |
How soon might you get side effects from radiation therapy? | Early side effects, such as nausea and fatigue, usually don't last long. They may start during or right after treatment and last for several weeks after it ends, but then they get better. Late side effects, such as lung or heart problems, may take years to show up and are often permanent when they do. The most common early side effects are fatigue and skin problems. You might get others, such as hair loss and nausea, depending on where you get radiation. |
How can you take care of your skin from radiation therapy? | Be gentle with your skin: Don't wear tight clothing over the area that's being treated. Don't scrub or rub your skin. To clean it, use a mild soap and let lukewarm water run over it. Avoid putting anything hot or cold on the area unless the doctor tells you to. Ask your doctor before you use any type of ointment, oil, lotion, or powder on your skin. Ask about using corn starch to help relieve itching. Stay out of the sun as much as possible. Cover the area getting radiation with clothing or hats to protect it. Ask the doctor about using sunscreen if you must be outdoors. If you're having radiation therapy for breast cancer, try not to wear a bra. If that isn't possible, wear a soft, cotton one without underwire. Don't use any tape, gauze, or bandages on your skin unless the doctor tells you to. |
What can you do to handle fatigue from radiation therapy? | Let your doctor know if you're struggling with fatigue. She might be able to help. There are also things you can do to feel better: Take care of your health. Be sure you're taking your medications the way you're supposed to. Get plenty of rest, be as active as you can, and eat the right foods. Work with a counselor or take a class at your cancer treatment center to learn ways to conserve energy, reduce stress, and keep yourself from focusing on the fatigue. Save your energy for the activities that are most important to you. Tackle them first when you're feeling up to it. Keep a balance between rest and activities. Too much bed rest can make you more tired. But don't over-schedule your days without giving yourself breaks. Ask for help from family and friends. If fatigue is interfering with your job, talk with your boss or HR department and ask about taking some time off from work or making adjustments in your schedule. Keep in mind that the fatigue from radiation therapy will probably go away within a few weeks after your treatment ends. |
Does radiation therapy cause diarrhea? | Diarrhea Radiation therapy to your belly can cause diarrhea, which typically starts a few weeks after therapy begins. The doctor will likely prescribe medications to help control it. She'll also suggest changes in your diet, such as eating small meals more often, avoiding high-fiber foods, and getting enough potassium. |
Does radiation therapy cause nausea? | Nausea Radiation to the head, neck, and any part of the digestive tract can cause nausea and vomiting. Let your doctor know if that happens. She can give you medicine to control it. Also, you might be able to learn relaxation techniques and biofeedback to help control and reduce feelings of nausea. |
What can I do to help manage fatigue from radiation therapy? | Let your doctor know if you're struggling with fatigue. She might be able to help. There are also things you can do to feel better: Take care of your health. Be sure you're taking your medications the way you're supposed to. Get plenty of rest, be as active as you can, and eat the right foods. Work with a counselor or take a class at your cancer treatment center to learn ways to conserve energy, reduce stress, and keep yourself from focusing on the fatigue. Save your energy for the activities that are most important to you. Tackle them first when you're feeling up to it. Keep a balance between rest and activities. Too much bed rest can make you more tired. But don't over-schedule your days without giving yourself breaks. Ask for help from family and friends. If fatigue is interfering with your job, talk with your boss or HR department and ask about taking some time off from work or making adjustments in your schedule. Keep in mind that the fatigue from radiation therapy will probably go away within a few weeks after your treatment ends. |
Does radiation therapy cause eating problems and what can you do about it? | Eating Problems Radiation therapy to the head, neck, or parts of the digestive system can make you lose your appetite. But it's important to keep eating a healthy diet while you're having treatment to keep your body strong. Try eating five or six small meals spread out through the day instead of three large ones. Try new recipes or foods. Keep healthy snacks on hand. It will help you eat when you're hungry rather than waiting for mealtimes and maybe losing your appetite. |
When do your skin problems from radiation therapy go away? | Your skin should start to feel better a few weeks after therapy ends. But when it heals, it may be a darker color. And you'll still need to protect yourself from the sun even after radiation therapy has ended. |
Can radiation therapy cause cancer? | Another possible late effect is a second cancer. Doctors have known for a long time that radiation can cause cancer. And research has shown that radiation treatment for one cancer can raise the risk for developing a different cancer later. Factors that can affect that risk include the amount of radiation used and the area that was treated. Talk with your doctor about the potential risk and how it compares to the benefits you'll get from radiation therapy. |
Does radiation therapy cause hearing problems? | Hearing Problems Radiation therapy to the head can sometimes cause hearing problems. One reason might be that it hardens the wax in your ears. Let your doctor know if you have trouble hearing. |
What mouth problems can happen from radiation therapy? | Mouth Problems Before you start radiation to your head or neck, see your dentist for a thorough exam. Radiation can cause problems in your mouth that include: Mouth sores (little cuts or ulcers) Lack of saliva Thick saliva Trouble swallowing Jaw stiffness Tell your cancer team about any of these problems so they can help you feel better. |
Does radiation therapy affect your sex life or fertility? | Fertility and Sexual Issues Radiation therapy to your pelvis can affect your sex drive and whether you'll be able to have a child. If you want to start a family or have more children, it's important to talk to your doctor about how the treatment will affect your fertility before treatment begins. |
Does radiation treatment have side effects? | This treatment can cause side effects, but they're different for everyone. The ones you have depend on the type of radiation you get, how much you get, the part of your body that gets treatment, and how healthy you are overall. There's no way to predict how radiation will affect you. You may have few or only mild side effects from your treatment; someone else may have a lot of problems or very severe ones. |
What are late side effects from radiation therapy? | Late side effects, such as lung or heart problems, may take years to show up and are often permanent when they do. But not everyone will have them. |
What are some late side effects of radiation therapy? | It's important to talk with her about how the treatment might make you feel and what you can do to feel better. Be gentle with your skin: Don't wear tight clothing over the area that's being treated. These problems happen when radiation damages your body. For example, scar tissue can affect the way your lungs or your heart works. Bladder, bowel, fertility, and sexual problems can start after radiation to your belly or pelvis. Another possible late effect is a second cancer. Doctors have known for a long time that radiation can cause cancer. |
How long do late side effects from radiation therapy last? | This treatment can cause side effects, but they're different for everyone. Late side effects, such as lung or heart problems, may take years to show up and are often permanent when they do. |
Will radiation therapy cause my hair to fall out? | You might get others, such as hair loss and nausea, depending on where you get radiation. Others won't. If it does happen, it's usually sudden and comes out in clumps. In most cases, your hair will grow back after therapy stops, but it may be thinner or have a different texture. Some people choose to cut their hair short before treatment begins to make less weight on the hair shaft. If you lose hair on top of your head, be sure to wear a hat or a scarf to protect your scalp from the sun when you go outside. If you decide to buy a wig, ask the doctor to write a prescription for one and check to see if it's covered by your insurance or is a tax-deductible expense. |
What kind of skin problems can radiation therapy cause? | It may also get swollen or blistered. Your skin may also become dry, flaky, or itchy. Or it may start to peel. If you lose hair on top of your head, be sure to wear a hat or a scarf to protect your scalp from the sun when you go outside. |
How can radiation therapy affect women? | Diarrhea Radiation therapy to your belly can cause diarrhea, which typically starts a few weeks after therapy begins. The doctor will likely prescribe medications to help control it. She'll also suggest changes in your diet, such as eating small meals more often, avoiding high-fiber foods, and getting enough potassium. Women shouldn't try to get pregnant during radiation therapy because it can hurt the baby. It also can stop periods and cause other symptoms of menopause. |
How are men and women affected by radiation therapy? | Treatment to the pelvis can make sex painful for some women and can also cause scarring that makes the vagina less able to stretch. In men, radiation can affect the nerves and blood vessels that control erections. Your doctor can help you understand what might happen and how you can handle it. It's natural to have less interest in sex when you're having treatment for cancer. Make sure you listen to their concerns, too. Talk with your doctor about the potential risk and how it compares to the benefits you'll get from radiation therapy. |
Does radiation therapy always cause hair loss? | You might get others, such as hair loss and nausea, depending on where you get radiation. Others won't. If it does happen, it's usually sudden and comes out in clumps. In most cases, your hair will grow back after therapy stops, but it may be thinner or have a different texture. |
How early do side effects from radiation therapy start? | This treatment can cause side effects, but they're different for everyone. Early side effects, such as nausea and fatigue, usually don't last long. They may start during or right after treatment and last for several weeks after it ends, but then they get better. Late side effects, such as lung or heart problems, may take years to show up and are often permanent when they do. The most common early side effects are fatigue and skin problems. You might get others, such as hair loss and nausea, depending on where you get radiation. |
Where can I find information on when to take insulin? | Follow your doctor's guidelines on when to take your insulin. |
How do you know what type of insulin is best for your diabetes? | The types of insulin include: Rapid-acting Short-acting Intermediate-acting Long-acting Pre-mixed Your doctor will work with you to prescribe the type of insulin that's best for you and your diabetes. Making that choice will depend on many things, including: How you respond to insulin. ( How long it takes the body to absorb it and how long it remains active varies from person to person.) Lifestyle choices. The type of food you eat, how much alcohol you drink, or how much exercise you get will all affect how your body uses insulin. Your willingness to give yourself multiple injections per day How often you check your blood sugar Your age Your goals for managing your blood sugar Afrezza, a rapid-acting inhaled insulin, is FDA-approved for use before meals for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. |
What types of insulin treat diabetes? | The types of insulin include: Rapid-acting Short-acting Intermediate-acting Long-acting Pre-mixed Your doctor will work with you to prescribe the type of insulin that's best for you and your diabetes. Making that choice will depend on many things, including: How you respond to insulin. ( How long it takes the body to absorb it and how long it remains active varies from person to person.) |
When should you take your insulin for diabetes? | Rapid acting insulins: About 15 minutes before mealtime Short-acting insulins: 30 to 60 minutes before a meal Intermediate-acting insulins: Up to 1 hour prior to a meal Pre-mixed insulins: Depending on the product, between 10 minutes or 30 to 45 minutes before mealtime Long-acting insulins aren't tied to mealtimes. |
Are there any insulins that aren't tied to mealtimes? | Rapid acting insulins: About 15 minutes before mealtime Short-acting insulins: 30 to 60 minutes before a meal Intermediate-acting insulins: Up to 1 hour prior to a meal Pre-mixed insulins: Depending on the product, between 10 minutes or 30 to 45 minutes before mealtime Long-acting insulins aren't tied to mealtimes. You'll take detemir ( Levemir) once or twice a day no matter when you eat. And you'll take glargine ( Basaglar, Lantus, Toujeo) once a day, always at the same time. Deglutec is taken once a day, and the time of day can be flexible. But some people do have to pair a long-acting insulin with a shorter-acting type or another medication that does have to be taken at meal time. |
How long before eating should I use the different types of insulins? | Rapid acting insulins: About 15 minutes before mealtime Short-acting insulins: 30 to 60 minutes before a meal Intermediate-acting insulins: Up to 1 hour prior to a meal Pre-mixed insulins: Depending on the product, between 10 minutes or 30 to 45 minutes before mealtime Long-acting insulins aren't tied to mealtimes. |
When should I take insulin if I have diabetes? | The time span between your shot and meals may vary depending on the type you use. In general, though, you should coordinate your injection with a meal. For more information about when to take insulin, read the "dosing and administration" section of the insulin product package insert that came with your insulin product, or talk with your doctor. |
How do I know which type of insulin is best for me? | The types of insulin include: Rapid-acting Short-acting Intermediate-acting Long-acting Pre-mixed Your doctor will work with you to prescribe the type of insulin that's best for you and your diabetes. Making that choice will depend on many things, including: How you respond to insulin. The type of food you eat, how much alcohol you drink, or how much exercise you get will all affect how your body uses insulin. |
What are signs of alcohol use disorder? | Some of the signals include: An uncontrollable urge to drink Lack of control over how much you drink Negative thoughts when you're not drinking alcohol Drinking in risky situations Drinking that interferes with fulfilling obligations Continuing to drink even though it causes problems or makes them worsen Stopping or doing less of important activities because of alcohol There are mild, moderate, and severe forms of AUD, which depend on how many symptoms you have. |
What is heavy drinking for women and for men? | For women, "heavy" or "at risk" drinking means more than seven drinks per week, or more than three in any day. For men, it's more than 14 drinks in a week, or more than four in a day. |
What is one alcoholic drink serving size? | One drink equals: 1.5 ounces of liquor (like whisky, rum, or tequila) 5 ounces of wine 12 ounces of beer Another way to look at your drinking habits is to think about how much you have during an average week. |
What are long term effects of alcohol use disorder? | In the short term, AUD can cause: Memory loss Hangovers Blackouts Long-term effects include: Stomach problems Heart problems Cancer Brain damage Permanent memory loss Pancreatitis High blood pressure Cirrhosis, or scarring on your liver You're also more likely to take dangerous risks. |
What are signs of hypomania in bipolar II disorder? | Signs of hypomania in bipolar II disorder include: Decreased need for sleep Extreme focus on projects at work or at home Exuberant and elated mood Increased confidence Increased creativity and productivity Increased energy and libido Reckless behaviors Risky pleasure-seeking behaviors As with most mood disorders, there is no laboratory test or brain imaging method to diagnose bipolar disorder. |
What are signs of mania in bipolar disorder? | The clinical depression symptoms seen with bipolar disorder are the same as those seen in major depressive disorder and include: Decreased appetite and/or weight loss, or overeating and weight gain Difficulty concentrating, remembering, and making decisions Fatigue, decreased energy, being "slowed down" Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism Insomnia, early-morning awakening, or oversleeping Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment, such as headaches, digestive disorders, and chronic pain Persistently sad, anxious, or "empty" moods Restlessness, irritability Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts The signs of mania in bipolar disorder include: Disconnected and very fast (racing) thoughts Grandiose beliefs Inappropriate elation or euphoria Inappropriate irritability Inappropriate social behavior Increased sexual desire Increased talking speed or volume Markedly increased energy Poor judgment A decreased need for sleep due to high energy While mania is the main characteristic of bipolar I disorder, bipolar II has milder periods of elation known as hypomania. |
At what age does bipolar disorder usually first appear? | It's rare that newly diagnosed mania is seen in young children or in adults over age 65. |
Can I get herpes through oral sex? | Oral herpes, which causes sores on the mouth (known as cold sores of fever blisters), can be passed to the genitals through oral sex. |
What should I do if my partner has symptoms of genital herpes? | If you know your partner has genital herpes, always abstain from sex when symptoms are present. Or, if you see a sore on someone's genitals, don't have sex with that person until you're sure he or she doesn't have genital herpes. Remember, not everyone with genital herpes has symptoms, and herpes sores can be very hard to spot. |
How can I be sure not to get genital herpes? | The only way to be 100% certain you won't get a sexually transmitted disease is to have just one sex partner who has no STDs -- and only if both of you stay monogamous. |
Will condoms help keep me from getting herpes? | A latex condom may protect you from the herpes virus if it covers the infected area. |
What can you do to treat tiredness and avoid wasting time? | Other signs that you need more shut-eye include: Falling asleep while watching TV or reading a book Feeling irritable Sleeping longer on weekends Trouble waking up in the mornings To get a good night's rest, keep the same bedtime and wake time. Don't smoke, and steer clear of alcohol, caffeine, and heavy meals for a few hours before bed, since they can disrupt your Zzz's. |
How can you stop anxious feelings and prevent wasting time? | You might also have: Muscle tension Fatigue Trouble sleeping Irritability To stop anxious feelings, take 10 slow, deep breaths, or replace a negative thought with a positive one. It's also important to get enough rest, exercise regularly, and make sure you don't skip meals. Keep a journal to help you learn what triggers your anxiety. Some people need medications or talk therapy to get the condition under control. |
What can you do if you if you're wasting so much time? | Then think of realistic ways you can get past it. If you think you're stuck because of a more serious health problem, talk to your doctor to make sure you get the right diagnosis and treatment. If good old-fashioned procrastination is your issue, break big projects into smaller ones you can do more easily. You can set deadlines to stay on track. Some people also find it helpful to reward themselves when they make progress. When you catch yourself wasting time, forgive yourself rather than feeling ashamed or angry. You may be less likely to procrastinate again if you go easy on yourself. |
Could obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) be causing you to waste time? | If you have this disorder, your brain can't signal when you're doing something correctly. Instead, you have a nagging sense that your actions aren't âjust right.â Rather than finish a task, people with OCD get stuck looking for a âperfectâ solution. Other symptoms include: A lot of unwanted thoughts or images Feeling helpless to stop the thoughts Rituals like hand washing Spending at least 1 hour a day on these thoughts and rituals Anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants can often improve OCD symptoms. |
Am I depressed? | You may have very little energy, even for hobbies and activities you love. It's also common to feel helpless and self-critical, which can cause someone with the condition to âshut down.â Other symptoms of depression include: A feeling of sadness that doesn't go away Low appetite and weight loss, or overeating and weight gain Restlessness or feeling irritable Thoughts of suicide or death Call 911 if you're thinking about hurting yourself or others. |
How can I control my ADHD? | Other symptoms of ADHD include: Daydreaming Forgetting or losing things Making careless mistakes or taking unsafe risks Squirming or fidgeting Medications can often help control many symptoms of the disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy, which helps identify and change negative thought patterns, also can help many people with the condition better manage their time. |
How can I control my anxiety? | You might also have: Muscle tension Fatigue Trouble sleeping Irritability To stop anxious feelings, take 10 slow, deep breaths, or replace a negative thought with a positive one. It's also important to get enough rest, exercise regularly, and make sure you don't skip meals. Keep a journal to help you learn what triggers your anxiety. Some people need medications or talk therapy to get the condition under control. |
How can I stop procrastinating? | If good old-fashioned procrastination is your issue, break big projects into smaller ones you can do more easily. You can set deadlines to stay on track. Some people also find it helpful to reward themselves when they make progress. When you catch yourself wasting time, forgive yourself rather than feeling ashamed or angry. You may be less likely to procrastinate again if you go easy on yourself. |
What can you do to control stress and avoid wasting time? | If the tension's bad enough to keep you from getting things done, you might notice it affects you in other ways, too, like: Trouble sleeping Racing thoughts Lack of energy or trouble focusing Headaches or muscle tension Keep your mood in check with regular exercise, limit alcohol and caffeine (which can make stress worse), and get enough sleep. Talk to a friend or counselor about what's on your mind, too. |
Is it normal that I waste a lot of time? | Putting off something that needs to be done is called procrastination. We all do it sometimes. But if you constantly struggle to finish tasks, there may be a bigger problem at play. Once you figure out your reasons, you can work on making the most of your time. If you've had less than 6 hours, it's harder for your brain to tune out distractions and focus long enough to finish what you need to do. |
Do I have OCD? | If you've had less than 6 hours, it's harder for your brain to tune out distractions and focus long enough to finish what you need to do. Instead, you have a nagging sense that your actions aren't âjust right.â Rather than finish a task, people with OCD get stuck looking for a âperfectâ solution. Other symptoms include: A lot of unwanted thoughts or images Feeling helpless to stop the thoughts Rituals like hand washing Spending at least 1 hour a day on these thoughts and rituals Anti-anxiety medication or antidepressants can often improve OCD symptoms. |
How can I control my depression? | Keep a journal to help you learn what triggers your anxiety. Even if not, talk to a counselor or therapist if you have any of these other symptoms. Some people also find relief from their depression with antidepressant medicine. |
I'm perimenopausal and have been told I should be taking low-dose birth control pills. Why? | Compared to regular birth control pills, the lower dose of estrogen in very-low-dose pills may be safer for perimenopausal women. ( Perimenopause typically begins several years before your final period.) While regular birth control pills contain 30 to 50 micrograms of estrogen, these low-dose pills contain only 0.3 to 0.45 micrograms and can be increased as needed. |
What can I do about painful sex since menopause? | The pain you are experiencing during sex is may be due to vaginal dryness associated with declining estrogen levels during menopause. Talk to your doctor about possible causes of painful intercourse. There are a number of lubricants you can try to relieve the symptoms. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a suggestion. There are also local estrogen treatments -- cream, tablets, and an estrogen ring -- that treat vaginal dryness. A oral drug taken once a day, Osphena, is also available. The drug makes vaginal tissue thicker and less fragile, resulting in less pain for women during sex. |
Should I be concerned about birth control now that I've begun menopause? | Until you have gone one year without a period, you should still use birth control if you do not want to become pregnant. After menopause, you should continue to practice safe sex techniques by using latex condoms to reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections. |
Are hot flashes different for different women? | While hot flashes (or flushes) are very common in perimenopause, not all women experience them, and not all flashes are of the same intensity. Hot flashes can be as mild as a light blush or severe enough to wake you from a sound sleep and be associated with perspiration (called night sweats). Most hot flashes last 30 seconds to five minutes. They usually disappear within a few years after menopause, but in some women they can continue for decades. |
What are some of the benefits of taking low-dose birth control pills? | In addition to preventing pregnancy, the pills can often regulate heavy or irregular menstrual periods and may provide protection from ovarian and uterine cancer. The pills may also prevent bone loss, which can lead to osteoporosis. However, women with a history of breast cancer, blood clots, or heart disease, or women who smoke, should not take these pills. |
Besides hormone replacement therapy, how can I treat hot flashes? | While HRT relieves hot flashes for many women, there are other drug treatments that may offer relief. These include both over-the-counter and prescription therapies you may recognize for their more common medical uses. Over-the-counter therapies include various vitamins, ibuprofen products, and soy protein found in foods. Prescription treatments include: HRT Low-dose depression drugs fluoxetine ( Prozac), paroxetine ( Paxil), or venlafaxine ( Effexor) Clonidine, blood pressure medication Gabapentin, anti-seizure drug Brisdelle, a paroxetine formula specifically for hot flashes Duavee, a conjugated estrogens/bazedoxifene formula designed to treat hot flashes Natural or bioidentical supplements containing compounds that act like estrogens -- such as soybeans or wild yams -- may provide some of the benefits of estrogen in relieving menopausal symptoms. |
What can I do about facial hair caused by menopause? | You should always check with your doctor before using any of these supplements. There are a number of lubricants you can try to relieve the symptoms. |
What alternative treatments are available for menopause symptoms? | You should always check with your doctor before using any of these supplements. Botanical supplements containing compounds that act like estrogens -- such as soy -- may provide some of the benefits of estrogen in relieving menopausal symptoms, but research results are contradictory. Other botanicals, including black cohosh, have shown some promise for reducing menopausal sweats, or hot flashes. However, more research is needed to define the benefits and risks of these alternative treatments, and you should always check with your doctor before using them. |
Who is more likely to get open-angle glaucoma? | Open-angle glaucoma usually happens to people over 50. You often get it in both eyes, but one eye isn't as bad as the other. Family history. You're more likely to get it if other family members have it. Race. African- Americans and Hispanics get it more often than whites. It tends to affect African- Americans earlier, and there's a greater chance it will lead to blindness. This lets your doctor see your optic nerve and check on its health. |
Can birth defects cause osteoarthritis? | Some people are born with abnormally formed joints (congenital abnormalities) that are vulnerable to mechanical wear, causing early degeneration and loss of joint cartilage. |
What causes primary osteoarthritis? | Repetitive use of the joints over the years causes damage to the cartilage that leads to joint pain and swelling. In fact, next to aging, obesity is the most powerful risk factor for osteoarthritis of the knees. |
Can obesity cause osteoarthritis? | Repetitive use of the joints over the years causes damage to the cartilage that leads to joint pain and swelling. In fact, next to aging, obesity is the most powerful risk factor for osteoarthritis of the knees. |
How can I avoid scorpion stings? | To avoid stings: Wear shoes, particularly at night. Put on gloves when you work in the yard, lift rocks and logs, or collect firewood. When you camp, don't sleep on the bare ground. Shake out your shoes before you put them on, especially if you've left them outside or in a basement or garage. |
How can a scorpion sting affect you? | A jab from this critter's curvy tail is painful, but it rarely causes an allergic reaction. The bark scorpion, which is common in this area, has venom that causes symptoms like fast breaths, high blood pressure, a racing heart, weakness, and muscle twitches. They're light tan with a little darker back, about 2-3 inches long, and if you have a UV light, they may glow in the dark. |
How are punctal plugs used to treat Sjögren's syndrome? | Tiny plugs can be placed in the tear duct by your eye doctor to keep more lubrication on your eyes. It usually takes a couple of minutes in the exam chair. Surgery to slow the disappearance of tears by sealing the tear ducts with cautery is another treatment option for more severe cases when artificial tears are not sufficient. |
How can punctal plugs help with Sjögren's syndrome? | Tiny plugs can be placed in the tear duct by your eye doctor to keep more lubrication on your eyes. It usually takes a couple of minutes in the exam chair. |
How can good oral hygiene help with Sjögren's syndrome? | Good mouth care may not prevent a dry mouth, but it helps prevent infection and cavities. Toothpastes and oral gels are available for people with dry mouth symptoms. These products contain low doses of peroxide. ( High amounts can cause more severe dryness.) These products also may have antibacterial action to reduce the severity of dental cavities over a long period of time. |
What medications are used to treat Sjögren's syndrome? | Two prescription drugs, Evoxac and Salagen, stimulate saliva production and may relieve the dry mouth symptoms. In some patients, the anti-rheumatic drug Plaquenil has been beneficial in decreasing pain and salivary gland swelling. For patients with generalized symptoms, particularly when the disease affects internal organs (including the gastrointestinal system, kidneys, brain, or spinal cord), high doses of immunosuppressive drugs may be necessary. These include medicines such as prednisone and, rarely, chemotherapy-type medications such as methotrexate. Balance rest and exercise. Guided exercise programs can help patients overcome fatigue, maintain flexibility, and overcome joint and muscle pain. |
How is good oral hygiene used to treat Sjögren's syndrome? | Good mouth care may not prevent a dry mouth, but it helps prevent infection and cavities. Toothpastes and oral gels are available for people with dry mouth symptoms. These products contain low doses of peroxide. ( High amounts can cause more severe dryness.) These products also may have antibacterial action to reduce the severity of dental cavities over a long period of time. |
How can increasing eye moisture help with Sjögren's syndrome? | Toothpastes and oral gels are available for people with dry mouth symptoms. Artificial tears must be used regularly and more often in dry environmental conditions such as on airplanes, in air-conditioned buildings, and on windy days. While artificial tears are helpful, they often do not last long enough. Thicker preparations are available that last longer. These often are used at bedtime because they sometimes cause blurry vision. Eye drops containing cyclosporine ( Cequa, Restasis) or lifitegrast ophthalmic solution ( Xiidra), treat inflammation in the glands around the eyes and may help to increase tear production. While Cequa or Restasis are often used at bedtime because they sometimes causes blurry vision, Xiidra is used twice a day. |
Is there a cure for Sjögren's syndrome? | Sjögren's syndrome occurs in two basic forms: primary Sjögren's syndrome -- the disease by itself and not associated with any other illness; and secondary Sjögren's syndrome -- disease that develops in the presence of another autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or vasculitis. The goals of treatment are to decrease discomfort and reduce the harmful effects of dryness. The type of treatment prescribed will be tailored to each patient's symptoms and needs. |
How is secondary Sjögren's syndrome diagnosed? | Sjögren's syndrome occurs in two basic forms: primary Sjögren's syndrome -- the disease by itself and not associated with any other illness; and secondary Sjögren's syndrome -- disease that develops in the presence of another autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or vasculitis. Biopsy of the inner lip (performed in some cases to prove the diagnosis of primary Sjögren's syndrome). |
What is the first aid for seizures? | Seizure first aid is a matter of taking precautions. You're most likely to need it for a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Keep other people out of the way. Clear hard or sharp objects away from the person. Don't try to hold her down or stop the movements. Place her on her side, to help keep her airway clear. Look at your watch at the start of the seizure, to time its length. Don't put anything in her mouth. Contrary to a popular myth, you can't swallow your tongue during a seizure. But if you put an object in her mouth, she could damage her teeth or bite you. |
What is the sequence of events of tonic-clonic seizures? | They have a set sequence of events: The person may become unresponsive. She doesn't answer if you call. She won't react if you wave a hand in her face or shake her. She may suddenly collapse. Her muscles clench and she becomes rigid as a board. This is the tonic phase. It lasts a few seconds. Next, a series of jerking movements convulse her body. This is the clonic phase. It can last a few seconds or several minutes. Eventually, the jerking stops and she regains consciousness. She may be confused or disoriented for a short period. |
How can I treat my allergies? | Many types of allergy pills or nasal spray are available with or without a prescription. Both work best if you use them before you're around your triggers. |
What are the different nasal sprays for allergies? | Saline spray . |
What are the different types of allergy pills? | Many types of allergy pills or nasal spray are available with or without a prescription. You may want to try these on their own or with a nasal spray to get allergy relief. But they don't ease congestion. Decongestants . They shrink swollen nasal tissues and relieve stuffy noses. Decongestants don't usually work as quickly in pill form as they do in sprays. These drugs can raise blood pressure, so talk to your doctor before taking them, especially if you have high blood pressure. Some drugs combine decongestants and antihistamines to ease many symptoms. They can relieve itching, sneezing, and a runny, stuffy nose. |
What should you eat to help treat psoriasis? | There's no solid evidence that any one food makes psoriasis better or worse. At the same time, many say their sores got better after they cut back on foods like sugar, white flour, or caffeine. It won't hurt to try, especially if you cut out not so healthy foods. |