VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: An irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS) symptom journal can help you and your doctor figure out what triggers your IBS, and how to deal with those triggers. Fill this out as soon as you experience symptoms. Print extra copies to have on hand. Remember, a variety of factors can set off IBS: Certain types of food, the volume of food, stress, medicines, your menstrual cycle, and your environment. You may find, for instance, that you tend to feel bloated after eating snacks during office meetings. Knowing what influences your eating and what causes you distress can help in developing prevention strategies. Date/ Time Symptoms Began Date/ Time Symptoms Ended Description of Symptoms (pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, etc.) Where were you and what were you doing when symptoms started? Pre- Symptom Activity Type of Food Eaten Amount of Food Eaten ( Rate 1-10 with 10 as an excessive portion.) Medications Taken Suspected Trigger(s)
context: If you wake up one morning and notice a small swelling or lump on your eyelid, don't worry too much. It may just be due to a blocked gland. Doctors call it a âchalazionâ -- âchalaziaâ if you have more than one. It's one of the most common types of eyelid lumps. Chalazia are more likely to appear on your upper eyelid, though they sometimes show up on the lower eyelid. You might get them in both eyes at once. You have glands throughout your body. They make things that your cells, tissues, and organs need to work properly. The meibomian glands in your upper and lower eyelids make oil that mixes with your tears to moisten and protect your eyes. If the oil gets too thick or if the glands are plugged because of inflammation, you may get a chalazion. Sometimes an infection can cause a chalazion, though this is rare. Chalazia happen more often in adults than children, and they look about the same in each person. They may start with a small area that is red, swollen, and sore or painful when touched. After a few days the pain usually goes away and a bump or lump remains. You may have: A small lump on the eyelid Swelling of the eyelid Soreness or discomfort Redness of the skin Watery eye Mild irritation in the eye Blurry vision Chalazia often come back. Once you have one, another may appear in the same or another area. There are no special tests. Your doctor usually just checks your eyes. He'll probably ask you questions about your symptoms, past eye problems, and your health history in general. You may have had chalazia more than once. If you haven't been checked by an eye specialist, your doctor may recommend that you see one. You may see either an ophthalmologist or optometrist, who'll check the chalazia to rule out other eye problems. Chalazia are often the result of blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction. Treating this condition can reduce the risk of chalazia from coming back. Chalazia often go away in days or weeks without treatment. One home remedy is to apply warm, moist heat to the area. Your doctor or nurse can give you instructions. Make sure you know how long and how often you should do this. With clean hands, gently push on the chalazia to help it naturally drain. Make the call if you think you have a chalazion. Your doctor may want to check it and tell you how to take care of it to help it heal. He may also suggest you use eye drops or creams. If the more simple treatments don't work, your doctor may prescribe medicines or give you injections to help clear up the problem
context: If you're like many people, your big toe may lean slightly toward your other toes. Over time, the base of the big toe pushes outward against the first metatarsal bone, which is directly behind it. var s_context; s_context= s_context || {}; s_context['wb.modimp'] = 'vidfloat'; if(webmd.useragent && webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop'){ webmd.ads2.disable Initial Load(); webmd.ads2.disable Ads Init = true; $(function() { webmd.p.pim.increment(); $('.responsive-video-container').insert After('.module-social-share-container'); require(['video2/1/responsive-player/video-loader'], function(video Loader) { video Loader.init({ autoplay: webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop' && ! !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } The result is a bunion -- a bony, often painful hump at the base of the big toe. Bunions form at a joint. That's where the toe bends normally when you walk. But when you have a bunion, all of your body weight rests on it each time you take a step. It can hurt when you walk. And, because your shoe likely rubs against it, a bunion can also cause calluses to form. Foot problems typically start in early adulthood. As we age, our feet spread, and the problems tend to get worse. Bunions can run in the family. They may be just one of many problems caused by weak or poor foot structure. Sometimes, they develop with arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis or gout. If one of your legs is longer than the other, you may develop a bunion on the big toe of the longer one. Women are more likely to get them than men. That's because wearing tight shoes -- and especially high heels -- pushes the foot bones into an unnatural shape over time. Take a look at your foot. See where the bottom of your big toe connects to your foot? If you see a bony bump there with your big toe headed in the opposite direction, you probably have a bunion. It may sometimes swell, turn red, feel tender to the touch, or even hurt. Over time, it may also become shiny and feel warm when you touch it. If you have pain when you're walking in flat shoes that should feel comfortable, make an appointment with a podiatrist (a foot specialist). It could be a bunion or some other problem.
context: Many different conditions can cause you to develop a rash around your vagina. Some are minor and some are more serious. If you have a vaginal rash, see your doctor to know for sure what caused it. This article will examine just a few of the conditions that can cause a vaginal rash. Molluscum contagiosum . This is a virus that causes a skin infection. It leads to patches of small, red, and shiny bumps that can occur on many parts of the body, including your pubic area. The bumps don't hurt or itch. But they can get infected and become red, swollen, and uncomfortable. The virus is spread through skin-to-skin contact with someone who has it. You can also get it by touching an object (like a towel) that has the virus on it. Vaginitis or irritation that can cause redness near your vagina. There are several different types of vaginitis such as: Yeast infection. This occurs when a type of yeast that normally lives in the vagina grows out of control. Bacterial vaginosis. This is due to an overgrowth of a type of bacteria in the vagina. Trichomoniasis. This is a parasite that's spread through sex. Scabies is caused by a tiny insect (human itch mites) that burrows into your skin. It's so small you can't even see it on your skin. One area it burrows into is the skin around your vagina. You may develop a rash or bumps. You may have severe itchiness, especially at night. Scabies can spread through direct skin-to-skin contact with someone who has it. You can also get it by touching items like towels or sheets that are infested with mites. Psoriasis is a skin disease that can affect any area of the body, including near the vagina. It causes patches on the skin that are red and smooth. If you scratch this area, it can lead to an infection, dryness, or cause the skin to become thick. Contact dermatitis occurs when you come into contact with products that irritate your skin. These include things like soaps, laundry detergent, pads, perfumes, or lotions. With contact dermatitis, you may have itching, redness, and swelling in the area around your vagina. Neurodermatitis is a skin condition that's also known as lichen simplex chronicus. It causes patches of itchy skin that lead to scratching, which makes you feel even itchier. You may also have patches around your vagina that are leathery, scaly, raised, rough, red, or darker than the rest of your skin. The condition isn't contagious. It may be due to something that irritates your skin, like a bug bite or tight clothes that trigger the itch-scratch cycle Lichen sclerosus is a skin condition where patches of skin become white and get thinner. This disorder can occur anywhere on the body, but for women, it most commonly occurs near the genital area. It can cause itching and pain. There is no known cause, but it occurs most often in postmenopausal women. Sexually transmitted infections ( STIs) such as syphilis and genital herpes can cause a rash near your vagina. They can also lead to sores or blisters around your vagina that may or may not be painful.
context: Diabetes can slow down your body's ability to fight infection. The high sugar levels in your blood and tissues allow bacteria to grow and help infections develop more quickly. Common sites for these problems are your bladder, kidneys, vagina, gums, feet, and skin. Early treatment can prevent more serious issues later on. Most infections in people with diabetes can be treated. But you have to be able to spot the symptoms. Tell your doctor immediately if you have any of the following: Fever over 101 FSweating or chills Skin rash Pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling Wound or cut that won't heal Red, warm, or draining sore Sore throat, scratchy throat, or pain when you swallow Sinus drainage, nasal congestion, headaches, or tenderness along upper cheekbones Dry or moist cough that lasts more than 2 days White patches in your mouth or on your tongue Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea Flu-like symptoms (chills, aches, headache, or fatigue) or generally feeling "lousy" Vaginal itching Painful or frequent peeing or a constant urge to go Bloody, cloudy, or foul-smelling pee
context: It can be scary to learn that you or your child has a heart murmur. However, heart murmurs are quite common and are often harmless. They occur in many healthy children, who may or may not outgrow them as adults. They may also occur during pregnancy. Such murmurs are called "innocent" heart murmurs. They are not associated with medical or heart conditions, and do not require treatment or lifestyle changes. Though many murmurs are innocent, some may indicate serious heart problems. For instance, heart murmurs may be caused by blood flowing through a heart valve made leaky or narrow by disease. Murmurs can also be caused by increased blood flow across a valve as a result of medical conditions such as anemia or hyperthyroidism. Congenital heart defects (heart problems present at birth) can also cause heart murmurs. These sometimes can be repaired with surgery. Within the heart there are four chambers separated by valves that regulate how much blood enters each chamber at any time. Healthy valves also help prevent blood from flowing in the wrong direction in your heart. A healthy heart makes a "lub-dub" sound as it beats. The "lub" (systolic sound) happens when part of the heart contracts and the mitral and tricuspid valves close, and the "dub" (diastolic sound) occurs when part of the heart relaxes and the aortic and pulmonic valves close. A heart murmur is an extra sound in the heartbeat -- such as a ''whooshing'' -- that is caused by turbulent blood flow through the heart valves. Heart murmurs can be heard through a stethoscope and often are detected during routine physical exams. On further examination, your doctor may find that the heart murmur is innocent. If your heart murmur is related to more serious heart problems, your doctor may refer you to a cardiologist (heart specialist). Medication or surgery may be recommended to treat the underlying problem. With a thorough physical examination and proper tests, your doctor should be able to tell what causes your heart murmur. Many people with heart murmurs experience no symptoms. However, some murmurs can occur in conjunction with these other symptoms: Chest pain Rapid heartbeat (palpitations) Breathlessness Fatigue Bluish skin color or fingertips (sometimes seen in babies with congenital heart defects)
context: When you're sick, all you want is to feel better. It may take a while for your body to fight off what ails you, but relief from your aches and fever can come sooner. You can treat many common symptoms of colds, the flu, and sinus infections with over-the-counter medications and some simple self-care. Medication Acetaminophen. Drugs with this ingredient affect the areas of your brain that control body temperature and pain. These medications can fight fevers and chills, ease headaches, and soothe sore throats and body aches. Check with your doctor before taking acetaminophen if you have severe kidney or liver disease, or if you drink three or more alcoholic beverages a day. Many multi-symptom cold medicines contain acetaminophen. Check the labels of any products you're taking to make sure you're not overdosing. NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). This group of meds includes aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Each is different, but they all reduce fevers and pain. NSAIDs may work better than acetaminophen at lowering a fever. They may do a better job of relieving sinus pain, too, since they reduce swelling. Check with your doctor before you use NSAIDs if you have a history of stomach problems, heart, liver, or kidney disease, or if you're taking a blood thinner. Don't give aspirin to a child under the age of 19. It can cause a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. Never take more than one type of NSAID. Since ibuprofen and acetaminophen control pain differently, you may be able to use both on the same day -- but check with your doctor first. You don't want to take more medication than you need. Other important things to know about OTC pain relievers. They can make other medicines less effective. So talk with your doctor first if you're taking a prescription medicine or a daily dose of aspirin to prevent a heart attack. Taking more than the recommended dose won't make medicine work faster. It could be dangerous. Take Care of Yourself Stay cool. Place a damp washcloth on your forehead, arms, or legs. Or take a slightly warm (not hot) bath. Both things can help bring down your fever. Don't overheat. If you get the chills, remove extra clothing and blankets. Bundling up causes your body's temperature to rise, making chills worse. Eat healthy foods. Sugary snacks and drinks may slow down your recovery. Nutritious choices help fuel your body's defenses. When to See Your Doctor A cold usually goes away on its own. But call your doctor's office if you have a fever over 101 F, vomiting, pain in your face or head, a severe sore throat, or a cough that won't go away.
context: var s_context; s_context= s_context || {}; s_context['wb.modimp'] = 'vidfloat'; if(webmd.useragent && webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop'){ webmd.ads2.disable Initial Load(); webmd.ads2.disable Ads Init = true; $(function() { webmd.p.pim.increment(); $('.responsive-video-container').insert After('.module-social-share-container'); require(['video2/1/responsive-player/video-loader'], function(video Loader) { video Loader.init({ autoplay: webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop' && ! !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } The symptoms of an ear infection in adults are: Earache (either a sharp, sudden pain or a dull, continuous pain) A sharp stabbing pain with immediate warm drainage from the ear canal A feeling of fullness in the ear Nausea Muffled hearing Ear drainage In children, the symptoms are: Tugging at the ear Poor sleep Fever Irritability, restlessness Ear drainage Diminished appetite Crying at night when lying down Body temperature rises above 100.4 degrees; a fever signals the possibility of a more serious infection (especially in infants and young children) You or your child frequently develops ear infections; repeated bouts with the disorder can lead to hearing loss or more serious infections You or your child has hearing problems; the infection may be the cause You suspect that your young child has an ear infection Contact your doctor immediately if: Your child develops a stiff neck Your child is very lethargic, responds poorly, or is inconsolable
context: Did you know that kids sweat less than grownups? Kids who play games or sports need to drink plenty of water so they can stay hydrated, especially if they're outside in hot, humid weather. Drink water. Drinking water is the natural and healthy way for a kid to stay hydrated. Plain water doesn't have any calories or energy-boosters like some sodas and sports drinks do. Don't add any sweeteners or flavors. Be prepared. Kids should drink plenty of fluids before sports or playing outdoors. Get on schedule. Active or athletic children should drink fluids regularly. Help her avoid getting dehydrated by making up a "fluid schedule" so she can drink a certain amount before, during, and after practices, games, and meets. Kids should drink more if they are working out in hot, sunny, or humid conditions, or if they sweat a lot. Water intake should increase a few days before major games or tournaments. Drink early. By the time a child gets thirsty, he or she may already be dehydrated. Drink enough. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, a child of about 88 pounds should drink 5 ounces of cold water every 20 minutes. Children and teens around 132 pounds should drink 9 ounces of cold water every 20 minutes. One ounce is equal to two kid-size gulps. What to avoid: Caffeinated beverages (sodas, iced tea). Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning the kid might have to pee more, causing him to lose more fluid and become dehydrated even quicker. If your child has about any of the following symptoms, he or she may be dehydrated: Headache Nausea/vomiting Pees less Dark yellow pee Overly tired Dizziness/passes out You may be able to help your child rehydrate at home. Have him continue to drink unsweetened fluids. Let him eat. Encourage him to rest. Keep an eye on him for other symptoms. Call the doctor if: Any of his symptoms get worse. He has diarrhea. He is lethargic or sleepier than normal. He seems confused or passes out.
context: Your heart's job is to pump blood to your body. When it's working the way it should, it pumps to a regular, steady beat. This is called a normal sinus rhythm. When it's not, you could have an irregular heartbeat called AFib. You probably don't think much about your heartbeat because it happens so easily. It's really like a complex dance. During each beat, the two upper chambers of your heart squeeze, or contract. Those are the atria. Then the two lower chambers, called the ventricles, contract. When the chambers contract, they move the blood along. Your heart's electrical system controls the timing of the pumps. Each heartbeat starts with a signal from the sinoatrial ( SA) node, in your right atrium. The SA node is called the heart's pacemaker because it adjusts your heart rate based on what you're doing. It raises your heart rate (the same thing as your pulse) when you exercise and slows it down when you sleep. The signal spreads across the right and left atria. That makes them contract and forces blood into your ventricles. Then, the signal moves to the atrioventricular node ( AV) node, which is near the middle of your heart. From there, the signal travels through the ventricle walls. That makes them contract and squeeze blood out of the heart. The right ventricle sends blood to your lungs, while the left pumps it to the rest of your body. The walls then relax and wait for the next signal. When everything is working smoothly, you have a normal sinus rhythm and your heart beats between 60 and 100 times per minute. Sometimes the heart's electrical system doesn't work the way it should. Atrial fibrillation, also called AF or AFib, is the most common type of irregular heartbeat. In this case, the signals get jumbled. As a result, instead of beating strongly and regularly, the atria quiver. So blood doesn't move into the ventricles very well. Instead of the dance being nice and organized, things are hectic and confusing. Many signals -- sometimes as many as 600 -- leave the atria at the same time, competing to get through the AV node to the ventricles. However, the AV node prevents them all from getting through. Only about one or two out of every three beats pass through. They go quickly and messily, resulting in an irregular heartbeat. The heart rate during AFib is often between 100 and 175 beats per minute. Some people have no symptoms. If you have them, you might feel: Fast, irregular heartbeat Fluttering, thumping, or flip-flopping in your chest Shortness of breath Dizziness Lack of energy when you exercise Weakness Fatigue Lightheadedness Confusion Chest pain Some people have AFib every once in a while. Symptoms might last for a few minutes or a few hours. Then things return to normal. Other people have AFib often and need treatment to get their heartbeat to return to a normal sinus rhythm. Go to the ER if you have symptoms. AFib won't cause a heart attack in a healthy heart, but it does raise your odds of having a stroke. And timely treatment, usually with a medication called a blood thinner (your doctor may call it an anticoagulant), can prevent strokes.
context: If you answer yes to any of the following questions about sleep disorders, you may be dealing with insomnia, sleep apnea, or another type of sleep problem. Consult your doctor. Do you snore loudly and/or heavily while asleep? Yes or No Are you excessively sleepy or do you lack energy in the daytime? Yes or No Do you have trouble with concentration or memory loss? Yes or No Do you fall asleep while driving, in meetings, while reading a book, or while watching television? Yes or No Do you often have occasional morning headaches? Yes or No Do you sleepwalk, have nightmares, or have night terrors? Yes or No Do you suffer from depression or mood changes? Yes or No Do you have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep? Yes or No Have you experienced recent weight gain or high blood pressure? Yes or No Have you been told you hold your breath when you sleep? Yes or No
context: Has blue lips or face An irregular or slow heartbeat Chest pain Difficulty breathing Is difficult to awaken Acts confused Lay the person flat on his or her back. Elevate the person's legs to restore blood flow to the brain. Loosen tight clothing. Shake the person vigorously, tap briskly, or yell. If the person doesn't respond, call 911 immediately and start CPR if necessary. If an AED is available, bring it by the person and use it if you have been trained on its use. Is vomiting or bleeding from the mouth If the person is alert, give fruit juice, especially if the person has not eaten in more than 6 hours or has diabetes. Stay with the person until he or she is fully recovered. See a health care provider right away if the person: Hit his or her head when fainting Faints more than once in a month Is pregnant or has a heart condition or other serious illness Experiences unusual symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, confusion, blurred vision, or difficulty talking
context: Macular retinal dystrophy is a rare genetic eye disorder that causes vision loss. Macular retinal dystrophy affects the back of your eye, or retina. It leads to cell damage in an area called the macula, which controls how you see what's out in front of you. When it happens, you have trouble seeing straight ahead. This makes it tough to read, drive, or do other daily activities that require you to look straight ahead. It's caused by a pigment that builds up in the macula's cells. Over time, this substance can damage cells that play a key role in clear central vision. Your sight gets blurry or warped. But your side, or peripheral, vision isn't harmed. So you won't be totally blind. Macular corneal dystrophy, also a rare genetic condition, affects the cornea, the transparent layer on the front of the eye. Cloudy areas form on the cornea, leading to severe visual impairment, usually when a person is in their 50s. There are two types of macular retinal dystrophy. A form called Best disease usually appears in childhood and causes different amounts of vision loss. The second usually affects you in mid-adulthood. It causes vision loss that slowly gets worse. People with Best disease usually have a parent who has it. Parents pass the gene on to their children. It's less clear how adult-onset macular retinal dystrophy is passed from parent to child. You may not have any other family members with the condition. Changes in your genes (your doctor will call these genetic mutations) are to blame. Some people have two specific genes that are affected. Changes in the BEST1 gene cause Best disease and sometimes adult-onset macular retinal dystrophy. Mutations in the PRPH2 gene cause adult-onset macular retinal dystrophy. However, it's hard to tell which gene is affected. That means the exact cause is unknown. We don't know how these gene changes cause pigment buildup in the macula. Doctors also don't know why only central vision is harmed. There's no effective treatment for this condition. Vision loss usually develops slowly over time. There's new research that involves the use of stem cells.
context: Natural menopause is the permanent ending of menstruation that is not brought on by any type of medical treatment. For women undergoing natural menopause, the process is described in three stages: perimenopause (premenopause), menopause, and postmenopause. However, not all women undergo natural menopause. Some women experience induced menopause as a result of surgery or medical treatments, such as chemotherapy and pelvic radiation therapy. Surgical menopause occurs when a premenopausal woman has her ovaries surgically removed in a procedure called a bilateral oophorectomy. This causes an abrupt menopause, with women often experiencing more severe menopausal symptoms than they would if they were to experience menopause naturally. In most cases, bilateral oophorectomy is performed because of cancer, including cervical, endometrial (cancer of the uterus), and ovarian cancer. However, it may occasionally be done to treat noncancerous conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or infections. Hysterectomy (the surgical removal of the uterus) can sometimes, though not always, include bilateral oophorectomy. Hysterectomy that does not involve removal of the ovaries usually does not result in menopause. Even though menses will stop once the uterus is removed, the ovaries will probably continue to function. Other surgeries that may involve the removal of both ovaries include: Abdominal resection. This is a surgical procedure done to treat colon and rectal cancer. While this surgery usually involves the removal of the lower colon and rectum, it can also include partial or total removal of the uterus and ovaries, as well as the rear wall of the vagina. Total pelvic exenteration. This procedure is usually only performed in cases of cervical cancer that recurs despite treatment with surgery and radiation. It involves the removal of most pelvic organs, including the uterus, cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, vagina, bladder, urethra, and part of the rectum. Medical treatments such as chemotherapy and pelvic radiation therapy can cause menopause by damaging the ovaries. However, not all premenopausal women undergoing these procedures will experience induced menopause. Additionally, even if the ovaries are damaged, the damage is not always permanent.
context: Genital itching can be a symptom of many conditions which may include vaginal infections in females or jock itch in males. In either sex, itching may be caused by skin irritation, sexually transmitted diseases, and allergies. In many cases, genital itching that is caused by irritation will clear up on its own if the irritation is removed. Other causes of itching may require more intensive treatment. If you are concerned about genital itching that does not go away, talk to your doctor or another health care professional. Females should take the following steps to help avoid genital itching: After urination or bowel movements, wipe from front to back to prevent bacteria from the anus getting into the vagina. Avoid chemical products such as vaginal douches or feminine hygiene sprays, which can upset the acidic balance of the vagina. Avoid scented feminine hygiene products (panty liners, pads, soaps). Males should take the following steps to help avoid genital itching: Wash the penis well, including the area under the foreskin in uncircumcised men. Keep the area dry, since moisture in the genital area can lead to infections. Cornstarch powders during the summer may be helpful. Both males and females should take the following steps to help avoid genital itching: Wear loose, natural-fiber underwear and clothing. Change underwear at least every 24 hours. Keep the genital area clean and dry. Use mild soap and rinse well. Use mild, unscented laundry detergents to wash your underwear. Dry off thoroughly after bathing and swimming. Avoid staying in wet clothing for long periods of time. Avoid unprotected sex, especially if you are worried that you or your partner might have an infection.
context: Non-drug interventions for ADHD include making adjustments in the environment to promote more successful social interactions. Such adjustments include creating more structure and encouraging routines. Children with ADHD may need help in organizing their lives. Therefore, some simple interventions to try for childhood ADHD include: Create a schedule. Make sure your child has the same routine every day. The schedule should include homework time and playtime. Post this schedule in a prominent place in the home. Help your child organize everyday items. Work with your child to have a place for everything. This includes clothing, backpacks, and school supplies. Note that children with ADHD need consistent rules that they can easily follow. When your child follows rules, he or she should be rewarded. Adult ADHD may be treated with one or more of the following: Individual cognitive and behavioral therapy to change negative thought patterns and enhance self-esteem Relaxation training and stress management to reduce anxiety and stress Behavioral coaching to teach strategies for organizing home and work activities Job coaching or mentoring to support better working relationships and improve on-the-job performance Family education and therapy
context: The white part of your eye (called the sclera) is a layer of tissue that protects the rest of your eye. When this area is inflamed and hurts, doctors call that condition scleritis. There isn't always an obvious reason it happens, but most of the time, it's caused by an autoimmune disorder (when your body's defense system attacks its own tissues). Some of those that are linked to scleritis include: Rheumatoid arthritis Lupus Sjogren's syndrome Scleroderma Wegener's granuloma Inflammatory bowel disease It also can be caused by an eye infection, an injury to your eye, or a fungus or parasite. If it's not treated, scleritis can lead to serious problems, like vision loss. It also can be linked to issues with your blood vessels (known as vascular disease). The two main types of scleritis are: Anterior: This is when the front of your sclera is inflamed. It's the most common type of scleritis. Posterior: This is when the back of your sclera is inflamed. It's less common but can lead to serious eye problems like a detached retina or glaucoma. Both anterior and posterior scleritis tend to cause eye pain that can feel like a deep, severe ache. You also might feel tenderness in your eye, along with pain that goes from your eye to your jaw, face, or head. And you may have blurry vision, unexplained tears, or notice that your eyes are especially sensitive to light. Anterior scleritis also may make the white of your eye look red, and you may see small bumps there. With posterior scleritis, you can't usually see these kinds of issues because they're on the back of the white of your eye. If your eye hurts, see your ophthalmologist (eye doctor) right away. He'll look closely at the inside and outside of your eye with a special lamp that shines a beam of light into your eye. He may work with your primary care doctor to use blood tests or imaging tests to check for other problems that might be related to scleritis. Because it's usually related to autoimmune disorders, your doctor may suggest that you see a rheumatologist (a doctor who specializes in autoimmune conditions). For very mild cases of scleritis, an over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug ( NSAID) like ibuprofen may be enough to ease your eye inflammation and pain. Most of the time, though, a prescription medication called a corticosteroid is needed to treat the inflammation. It also can help with eye pain and may help protect your vision. It's rare, but if the sclera is torn or in danger of tearing, surgery may be needed to reinforce it. That's called a scleral graft. If an autoimmune disorder is causing your scleritis, your doctor may give you medicine that slows down your immune system or treats that disorder in another way.
context: Genital warts are small, gray or skin-colored bumps that grow in or near the genitals. They're one of the most common types of sexually transmitted diseases ( STDs). They're caused by several types of the human papillomavirus ( HPV). The warts normally appear near the vagina, vulva, urethra, cervix, penis, larynx, or anus. Sometimes, they're so small and flat that you might not notice them right away. They may clump together or look like cauliflower. You might feel itching, bleeding, burning, or pain. But genital warts can often take months or years to show, if they ever do. Your doctor will decide whether your genital warts need treatment with medications, cryotherapy (freezing off the warts), surgery, or an acid solution. Anyone who's sexually active can get or spread HPV. Some things can make you more likely to get genital warts. They include: Having more than one sex partner (or a partner who does) Being pregnant Having a weakened or damaged immune system Smoking There's a vaccine for people 9 to 26 years old. You get it as three injections over a 6-month period. Or you can get the same amount of protection from just two shots as long as you get both doses before age 15. You must get the shots before you're exposed to HPV in order for it to work. The vaccine won't protect you if you've already been infected with certain HPV strains, but it can protect you from many other, but not all types of HPV you have not been exposed to. The best way to avoid catching or spreading genital warts is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex. Your partner might have an STD but not have any symptoms or know they have it. Talk to your partner about using a condom during sex. But remember, HPV spreads easily, even with condoms. Limit the number of people you have sex with. Don't have sex with anyone who has genital warts or is being treated for them. Get the HPV vaccine, too. It can protect you from getting two of the HPV strains that cause genital warts.
context: Many women feel at least some pelvic pain during their period. For some, it's especially rough. In some cases, it's due to a condition called endometriosis. It happens when small pieces of tissue that usually grow inside your uterus grow outside of it instead. The tissue can block your fallopian tubes. It can also grow or cover your ovaries and the tissue lining of your pelvis. It causes intense pain, and it can get worse over time. You'll need to see your doctor to find out if it's endometriosis. Be ready to talk about your symptoms and to get tests to check on that. Let your doctor know about the pain you have during your period and at other times. In women with endometriosis, it can start before their period and go on for several days after it ends. Many also have pain in their lower back and belly, as well as their pelvis. Also tell your doctor if you have: Pain during or after sex Pain when you pee Pain with bowel movements Heavy bleeding during your period Irregular bleeding Constipation Bloating Nausea Infertility Bleeding or spotting between periods Mood changes due to pain If you have symptoms, call your gynecologist. You may get tests including: A pelvic exam . Your doctor will feel for cysts or scar tissue. But this may not be enough to tell if you have endometriosis. Ultrasound . This uses high-frequency sound waves to make a picture of your reproductive organs. During the test, a technician might put the ultrasound scanning wand, called a transducer, into your vagina or move it across your belly. Ultrasound doesn't always show endometriosis, but it is good at finding ovarian cysts, which are common in women with the condition. Magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI). This test can make a clear picture of the inside of your body without using X-rays. It uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer. MRI tests can also help doctors prepare for surgery on women with endometriosis. Laparoscopy . You may get a diagnostic laparoscopy. Your doctor will make a small cut near your bellybutton and put a thin tool called a laparoscope through it to check for any signs of endometriosis. If you do find out that you have endometriosis, the sooner you get diagnosed, the sooner your doctor can help you make a plan to manage your symptoms.
context: If your feet are burning or itchy all the time, and if you see what looks like a rash on the skin, you could have athlete's foot. But did you know that there's more than one type? A fungus causes this infection. One of the most common ways to pick it up is to walk barefoot in places where germs hang out, like public pools or gym locker rooms. You can also get it if you share socks, bath towels, or bed sheets with someone who already has it. The exact symptoms of athlete's foot depend on which specific type of infection you have. Some types cause rashes that are red and blistery. With others, your skin may seem thick and scaly. So which one might you have? Your doctor may call this an interdigital infection. That just means it's between the fingers or toes. It usually starts on the skin between your fourth and fifth (i.e. pinkie) toes. Sometimes bacteria take hold and makes the fungal infection worse. Symptoms: You may feel a burning sensation between your toes. The skin may be red, peeling, or scaly, and the rash may smell or give off discharge. In very bad cases, your skin may take on a green color. If the fungus covers the sole of your foot, it's called a moccasin infection. You may see the rash spread along your heel and up the side of your foot as well. Symptoms: At first, your feet may just feel sore, dry, or slightly itchy. After a while, the skin thickens, cracks, or peels. If the infection advances to your nails, your toenails may also get thick and crumbly. Sometimes the nails even come out. You might not be able to use a treatment that goes on your skin. Sometimes a combination of different medications works best for this, including a separate one for your nails. Vesicles are the medical term for blisters, and that's exactly what marks this type of infection. If the blisters burst, you could get a bacterial infection and need antibiotics. Symptoms: Vesicular infections happen anywhere on your foot. But the small, red blisters usually pop up on your soles or between your toes. The rash may feel itchy or painful. It can be worse in the summer. It's unusual, but sometimes feet develop open sores, or ulcers. Those ulcers are also open to an infection by bacteria. You'll need antibiotics to treat this. Symptoms: In addition to sores that may ooze discharge, your skin gets very inflamed and discolored. This type of infection is usually very painful. If your symptoms don't improve over time, or if they get worse, you'll need to get a prescription for an antibiotic, so see your doctor.
context: When you make a plan to tackle your knee osteoarthritis ( OA), don't overlook the power of food. There's no specific diet that treats your problem, but you can get some big health benefits if you eat smart. You'll keep your weight under control, build strong cartilage, and cut some inflammation. You don't have to make a major overhaul to your diet. Follow these simple steps to keep your joints happy. 1. Cut Extra Calories Your knees will feel better if you keep your waistline trim. When you drop those extra pounds, you'll put less stress on your joints. A good way to lower your calorie count: Take smaller portions, avoid sugary foods and drinks, and eat mostly plant-based foods. 2. Eat More Fruits and Veggies Feel free to eat plenty of these. Many are loaded with antioxidants -- substances that can help protect your cells from damage. Some antioxidants, found in fruits and veggies like apples, onions, shallots, and strawberries, may also help reduce joint inflammation and pain. 3. Add Omega-3 Fatty Acids Omega-3s may help relieve your joint pain and decrease morning stiffness. They work by reducing inflammation in your body. One easy way to add them to your diet is to eat two 3-ounce servings of fatty fish each week. Some of the best sources of omega-3s are trout, salmon, mackerel, herring, tuna, and sardines. 4. Use Olive Oil in Place of Other Fats One study shows that a compound in olive oil, called oleocanthal, helps prevent inflammation. It works in much the same way that NSAIDs do. Olive oils with the strongest flavor have the highest amount. About 3 1/2 tablespoons of olive oil offers the same relief as 200 milligrams of ibuprofen. But that much oil also gives you about 400 calories. To add olive oil to your diet without extra calories, use it in place of other fats, such as butter. 5. Get Enough Vitamin C A key element for joint health, vitamin C helps build collagen and connective tissue. A lot of tasty foods can give you this nutrient. Try citrus fruits, red peppers, strawberries, broccoli, cabbage, and kale. Aim for the recommended amount of 75 milligrams a day for women or 90 milligrams a day for men. 6. Watch High Cooking Temperatures Meat cooked at high temperatures makes compounds that can cause inflammation in your body. They're called advanced glycation end products ( AGEs), and they're linked to diseases such as arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. You can reduce your levels of AGEs if you cut back on grilled, fried, broiled, and microwaved meats. It's also helpful to limit processed foods, as they are often cooked at high temperatures.
context: Infertility is when you cannot get pregnant after having unprotected, regular sex for six months to one year, depending on your age. The main symptom of infertility is not getting pregnant. You may not have or notice any other symptoms. Symptoms can also depend on what is causing the infertility. Many health conditions can make it hard to get pregnant. Sometimes no cause is found. In women, changes in the menstrual cycle and ovulation may be a symptom of a disease related to infertility. Symptoms include: Abnormal periods. Bleeding is heavier or lighter than usual. Irregular periods. The number of days in between each period varies each month. No periods. You have never had a period, or periods suddenly stop. Painful periods. Back pain, pelvic pain, and cramping may happen. Sometimes, female infertility is related to a hormone problem. In this case, symptoms can also include: Skin changes, including more acne Changes in sex drive and desire Dark hair growth on the lips, chest, and chin Loss of hair or thinning hair Weight gain Other symptoms of disorders that may lead to infertility include: Milky white discharge from nipples unrelated to breastfeeding Pain during sex Many other things can be related to infertility in women, and their symptoms vary. Infertility symptoms in men can be vague. They may go unnoticed until a man tries to have a baby. Symptoms depend on what is causing the infertility. They can include: Changes in hair growth Changes in sexual desire Pain, lump, or swelling in the testicles Problems with erections and ejaculation Small, firm testicles If you are under 35 and have been trying to get pregnant without success for a year, see your doctor. Women 35 and older should see their doctor after six months of trying. Blood, urine, and imaging tests can be done to discover why you are having trouble getting pregnant. A sperm analysis can be done to check a man's sperm count and the overall health of the sperm. Your doctor may refer you to a reproductive endocrinologist. That's a doctor who specializes in infertility. You will be asked questions about your infertility symptoms and medical history. Before you go to the doctor, write down the following information and take it to your next doctor's appointment: All the medications you take, including prescriptions, vitamins, minerals, supplements, and any other drugs bought without a prescription How often you have unprotected sex, how long you have been trying, and the date of the last time you tried to get pregnant Body changes or other symptoms you have noticed Dates of any surgeries or treatments in the past, especially those involving the reproductive tract. Any radiation or chemotherapy you have had How much you smoke, how much alcohol you drink, and any illegal drug use Any history of sexually transmitted diseases ( STDs) Any genetic disorder or chronic illness, such as diabetes or thyroid disease, in you or your family Listen to your body. Tell your doctor any time you notice a symptom. Early diagnosis of an infertility problem may improve your odds of getting pregnant.
context: The head-up tilt table test is a way to find the cause of fainting spells. You lie on a bed and you're tilted at different angles (from 30 to 60 degrees) while machines monitor your blood pressure, electrical impulses in your heart, and oxygen level. It's done in a special room called the EP (electrophysiology) lab. If you're scheduled for a head-up tilt table test, you should: Take all your medications, as prescribed. Not eat or drink anything after midnight the evening before your test. If you must take medications, drink only small sips of water to help you swallow your pills. Bring a list of all your current medications, including the dose. Wear comfortable clothes to the hospital. It is best not to wear any jewelry or bring valuables. Plan to have someone drive you home after your test. If you have diabetes, ask how to take your medications, eat, and drink before the procedure. It usually takes an hour or two to complete. That may vary, depending on how your blood pressure and heart rate change and what symptoms you have during it. Before the test begins, a nurse will start an IV. This is so the doctors and nurses may give you medications and fluids during the procedure if necessary. You'll be awake during the test. They'll ask you to lie quietly and keep your legs still. The nurse will connect you to four monitors. They are: Defibrillator/ pacemaker: This is attached to one sticky patch placed on the center of your back and one on your chest as a precautionary measure. The device allows the doctor and nurse to increase your heart rate if it's too slow or send energy to your heart if its rate is too fast. Electrocardiogram, or EKG : It's attached to several sticky electrode patches that are put on your chest. It provides a picture of the electrical impulses going through your heart. Oximeter monitor: A device is attached to a small clip on your finger. It checks the oxygen level of your blood. Blood pressure monitor : It's connected to a blood pressure cuff on your arm and checks your blood pressure every so often. You may feel nothing at all, or you may feel like passing out. Some people do pass out. It is important to tell your doctor or nurse about any symptoms you feel. As part of the test, your doctor may give you a medication called Isuprel or a nitroglycerin spray under your tongue. This may make you feel nervous or jittery. You may feel your heart beat faster or stronger. This feeling will go away as the medication wears off. Most likely, you'll be able to go home. You should have someone drive you. Your doctor may change your medications after he gets your test results. He also may tell you that you need new medications or more tests or procedures.