VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: When your doctor diagnoses you with advanced prostate cancer, they'll use several tests to plan your treatment. A biopsy (when the doctor takes a small piece of tissue to test in a lab) and a Gleason score can check for cancer and help see how fast-growing your cancer is. Your Gleason score isn't a separate test. It's a number based on the results of your biopsy. You usually get it when you're first diagnosed with prostate cancer. It's the sum of two grades on your lab report. They focus on the most common and second-most common cancer cell patterns in a biopsy. The doctor uses the numbers 1 to 5 to grade the most common (primary) and second most common (secondary) patterns of cells found in a tissue sample: Grade 1. The cells looks very much like normal prostate cells. Grades 2-4. Cells that score lower look closest to normal and represent a less aggressive cancer. Those that score higher look the furthest from normal and will probably grow faster. Grade 5. Most cells look very different from normal. The two grades added together are your score. It can range from 2 to 10, but most cancers will score 6 or more. A higher score (8 to 10) means the cancer is more likely to grow and spread. Your doctor will use your score along with the results of your PSA blood test and digital rectal exam to see how advanced your prostate cancer is and to suggest treatment. For this procedure, the doctor takes a biopsy from your prostate. The tissue goes to a lab for testing. They can tell if you have cancer and, if so, how fast it might grow. The biopsy takes about 10 minutes. You can get it done in your urologist's office. You will be awake for it. It usually doesn't hurt much. In the most common type of biopsy, your doctor places a device called an ultrasound probe in your rectum. It's about the width of a finger. It gives off sound waves that bounce off your prostate and create a black and white image on a video screen. A newer method uses an MRI scan to biopsy the prostate. With the picture of your prostate as a guide, your doctor inserts a thin, spring-loaded, hollow needle through the wall of your rectum and into your prostate gland. As your doctor removes the needle, they take out a tiny bit of prostate tissue. Because prostate cancer is rarely only in one area of the prostate, your doctor will take an average of 12 pieces of tissue, or samples, from different parts of your prostate. They may take more samples if they think they need to. It's possible to have different types of cancer in the same prostate. Your doctor will get each tissue sample checked by a lab. The lab report will tell your doctor if cancer is present in each sample, how much of the tissue sample contains cancer, and your Gleason score.
context: All warts have the same cause: human papillomavirus, or HPV. And you can take steps to avoid it. You can get HPV from someone else or from something that someone who has HPV has touched. It's easier for the virus to get into your body if you have cuts or scrapes. These steps help: Wash your hands, especially after you touch a wart that you already have. And keep your hands dry, since warts like moisture. Wear shower shoes, thongs, or rubber swimming shoes whenever you go to a public pool, locker room, or use a shower that other people also use. Wash your feet thoroughly with a disinfectant soap after being in an area where the virus can spread. Don't touch someone else's wart. And don't pick at your own warts. If you get pedicures, make sure your pedicurist doesn't use the same tools on you that they use on other people. Don't shave, brush, or clip areas that have warts. Do you already have a wart on your foot? Keep it dry to help prevent it from spreading.
context: Grapes -- along with their leaves and sap -- have been traditional treatments in Europe for thousands of years. Grape seed extract is derived from the ground-up seeds of red wine grapes. Although fairly new to the U. S., grape seed extract is now used to treat a number of diseases. 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(); }); } There is evidence that grape seed extract is beneficial for a number of cardiovascular conditions. Grape seed extract may help with a type of poor circulation (chronic venous insufficiency) and high cholesterol. Grape seed extract also reduces swelling caused by injury and helps with eye disease related to diabetes. Many people are interested in grape seed extract because it contains antioxidants. These are substances that protect cells from damage and may help prevent many diseases. However, it's still too early to say whether the antioxidant properties of grape seed extract really benefit people. Researchers are studying grape seed extract to see if it might lower the risks of some cancers. For now, the evidence is not clear. Grape seed extract has been studied for use in many other conditions -- ranging from PMS to skin damage to wound healing -- but the results have been inconclusive. There is no firmly established dose of grape seed extract. Doses of between 100-300 milligrams/day have been used in studies and are prescribed in some European countries. No one knows what the highest safe dose is. Grape seed extract comes from grapes. There are no other food sources. Side effects. Grape seed extract is generally considered safe. Side effects may include headache, itchy scalp, dizziness, and nausea. Risks. People allergic to grapes should not use grape seed extract. If you have a bleeding disorder or high blood pressure, talk to your doctor before you start using grape seed extract. Interactions. If you take any medicines regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using grape seed extract. It could interact with drugs like blood thinners, NSAID painkillers (like aspirin, Advil, and Aleve), certain heart medicines, cancer treatments, and others. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, grape seed extract is not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
context: Going for your first colonoscopy? This lets a doctor check your colon and rectum for cancer and polyps -- growths that can be early signs of cancer. It saves lives, so if your doctor suggests you get one, be sure you do. It's a fairly safe exam. On average, two serious complications occur for every 1,000 procedures performed. But it's not without risks. Here are four you should talk to your doctor about. This is the most common side effect of colonoscopy. You might feel cramping or bloating afterward. Your doctor will use a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope to look inside your colon. It has a light and camera to help her see what's going on in there. She may also insert air inside your colon to get a better view. She might use water or a suction device as well as certain surgical tools if she needs to remove a polyp. All these things can move and stretch your colon, so you might feel uncomfortable for a day or two after the exam. You may also feel nauseous and might even throw up. These symptoms usually aren't dangerous, but if you have vomited or are in pain, call your doctor right away. You could notice blood from your rectum or in your stool after a colonoscopy. Most of the time, this happens because your doctor had to take a tissue sample or remove a polyp from your colon. Call your doctor right away if it continues or if there's a lot of blood. Certain medications, such as vitamins and over-the-counter painkillers like aspirin, can increase your risk of bleeding. If you take them, be sure to tell your doctor before you go in for your procedure. You'll be asleep during your exam, so you won't feel anything. You may feel woozy or shaky when you wake up. In rare cases, some people can have serious reactions to the medications such as heart or breathing problems. But your doctor and her team are trained to identify and treat these side effects. Tell her if you're allergic to any medicines or have ever had a bad reaction to anesthesia. The tool used during colonoscopy could push too hard against your colon. This can cause a small tear. If it does, your doctor may need to repair it with surgery. Fortunately, this is rare. Call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms after your screening: Severe pain or cramping in the abdomen A hard belly You can't pass any gas or stool Fever Dizziness Vomiting Frequent or severe bloody bowel movements Severe or on-going bleeding from your anus
context: Eating a healthy diet may reduce your symptoms of heart failure. A registered dietitian can provide in-depth, personalized nutrition info and help you start an action plan. Here are some basic tips to get you started: Control the salt in your diet. Lowering the amount of sodium you eat to no more than 1,500 milligrams per day is one of the most important ways to manage heart failure. Learn to read food labels. Use the information on food packages to help you to make the best low-sodium selections. Eat a variety of foods. This will help make sure you get all the nutrients you need. Include high-fiber foods in your diet. Fiber helps move food along your digestive tract, controls blood sugar levels, and may reduce the level of cholesterol in your blood. Vegetables, beans, whole-grain foods, bran, and fresh fruit are high in fiber. You should have 25 to 35 grams of fiber each day. Keep track of how much you're drinking. Have less (including soup) if you have shortness of breath or notice swelling. Talk to your doctor about how much fluid you should be drinking each day. Maintain a healthy weight . Lose weight if you're overweight. Limit the number of calories you have each day. Exercise regularly to get to or keep your ideal weight. Cut back on alcohol. It can affect your heart rate and worsen your heart failure. Your doctor may tell you to avoid or limit alcoholic beverages. Alcohol may also interact with the medications you are taking. Questions? Ask your doctor for guidelines. Nutrition labels and an ingredient list are required on most foods so you can make the best choice for a healthy lifestyle. If you have trouble reading the food label, meet with a registered dietitian. He can review the label with you and clear up any confusion.
context: Anal cancer is an uncommon malignancy that starts in the anus -- the opening at the end of the rectum. The American Cancer Society estimates that 8,200 cases of anal cancer will be diagnosed in 2017 and about 1,100 deaths will occur that year from anal cancer. By contrast, some135,730 people are predicted to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in the U. S. in 2017, and about 50,260 people are predicted to die of the disease the same year. Approximately half of all anal cancers are diagnosed before the malignancy has spread beyond the primary site, whereas 13% to 25% are diagnosed after the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes, and 10% are diagnosed after the cancer has spread to distant organs, or has metastasized. When it is found early, anal cancer is highly treatable. The overall five-year survival rate following diagnosis of anal cancer is 60% for men and 71% for women. Most anal cancers (80%) are diagnosed in people who are over age 60. Prior to age 35, anal cancer is more common in men. However, after age 50, anal cancer is slightly more common in women. The incidence rate of anal cancer is six times higher in single men as compared to married men. Receptive anal intercourse is strongly related to the development of anal cancer. Anal infection with human papillomavirus ( HPV) resulting in genital warts is a major risk factor for the cancer. Immunocompromised patients, such as those with HIV disease, are prone to get anal cancer. In this subgroup, the prognosis is worse, than for non-immunocompromised patients. Gardasil, one of the HPV vaccines originally approved for the prevention of cervical cancer, is also approved for the prevention of anal cancer in men and women. The most common symptom associated with anal cancer is bleeding. Because anal itching can also be a symptom of the cancer, many people initially attribute their bleeding and itching to hemorrhoids. This can delay the diagnosis of anal cancer. Other signs and symptoms of anal cancer may include: Pain or pressure in the anal area Unusual discharges from the anus Lump near the anus Change in bowel habits Anal cancer may be detected during a routine digital rectal exam or during a minor procedure, such as removal of what is believed to be a hemorrhoid. The cancer may also be detected with more invasive procedures such as an anoscopy, proctoscopy, or endorectal ultrasound. If cancer is suspected, a biopsy should be done and the specimen examined by a pathologist. Staging workup may include an abdominal and pelvic CT scan, a pelvic MRI scan to assess the pelvic lymph nodes, a chest x-ray, and liver function studies. PET scans are sometimes performed. Anal cancer is primarily treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation. Surgery is typically reserved for patients failing the above therapy.
context: When you’re sick, you want to get better as quickly as possible. But some of your habits may actually make your symptoms worse. Avoid these common cold and flu missteps so you can stay on the road to recovery. 1. You try to power through. Don’t keep up with your usual routine. Your body needs energy to fight off that cold or flu virus. Make rest a priority. Cancel those plans and stay home from work or school. Along with helping your body recover, you’ll also keep from spreading those germs around. 2. You ignore flu symptoms. You usually don’t need to see a doctor for a run-of-the-mill cold. But call her if you have signs of the flu, such as a high fever, body aches, and fatigue. She can give you an antiviral drug such as oseltamivir ( Tamiflu) or zanamivir ( Relenza). If you take one in the first 48 hours that you’re sick, you can ease your symptoms and shorten your illness by 1 or 2 days. 3. You skimp on sleep. Not getting enough weakens your immune system, which makes it harder for you to battle that infection. One study found that people who get less than 6 hours of shut-eye a night are four times more likely to get sick than those who log at least 7. So go to bed early and take naps during the day. Are your symptoms keeping you up? Soothe a nighttime cough with a little honey, and run a humidifier to help you breathe easier. 4. You bug your doctor for an antibiotic. That prescription won’t make you feel better. Antibiotics only kill bacteria, and colds and the flu are caused by viruses. Nearly one-third of antibiotic prescriptions are unnecessary. This can raise your risk of side effects, such as diarrhea and allergic reactions. It also contributes to a huge global health problem: antibiotic resistance. That’s when bacteria get used to the drugs, so they don’t work anymore. 5. You don’t drink enough. When your throat aches, it’s not as easy to gulp down liquids. But when you stay hydrated, you can thin your mucus and break up congestion. It can also fend off headaches. Make sure you drink plenty of water. For extra relief, sip a warm beverage like herbal tea or broth. Research shows that it can help ease cold symptoms such as fatigue or a sore throat. 6. You skip meals and snacks. You might not have much of an appetite, but it’s important to eat something. Calories and nutrients will fuel the immune cells that attack cold and flu viruses. The result: You may get better faster. Try eating a bowl of chicken soup. Research shows that this classic may actually relieve some of those symptoms. 7. You light up. Smoking damages your lungs and irritates your throat. That can make your cold symptoms worse. So ditch the cigarettes and steer clear of secondhand smoke. 8. You stress out. A hormone your body makes when you’re stressed is hard on the immune system. It also increases inflammation, which can make your stuffy nose even worse. Make an effort to focus on relaxing and recovering, and you may be back on your feet sooner.
context: Erectile dysfunction, also known as ED or impotence, is the inability to attain or maintain an erection of the penis adequate for the sexual satisfaction of both partners. It can be devastating to the self-esteem of a man and of his partner. As many as 30 million American men are afflicted on a continuing basis, and transient episodes affect nearly all adult males. But nearly all men who seek treatment find some measure of relief. As recently as two decades ago, doctors tended to blame erectile dysfunction on psychological problems or, with older men, on the normal aging process. Today, the pendulum of medical opinion has swung away from both notions. While arousal takes longer as a man ages, chronic erectile dysfunction warrants medical attention. Moreover, the difficulty is often not psychological in origin. Today, urologists believe that physical factors underlie the majority of cases of persistent erectile dysfunction in men over age 50. Erectile dysfunction in older men. Because erections primarily involve the blood vessels, it is not surprising that the most common causes in older men are conditions that block blood flow to the penis, such as atherosclerosis or diabetes. Another vascular cause may be a faulty vein, which lets blood drain too quickly from the penis. Other physical disorders, as well as hormonal imbalances and certain operations, may also result in erectile dysfunction. The vascular processes that produce an erection are controlled by the nervous system and certain prescription medications may have the side effect of interfering with necessary nerve signals. Among the possible culprits are a variety of stimulants, sedatives, diuretics, antihistamines, and drugs to treat high blood pressure, cancer, or depression. But never stop a medication unless your doctor tells you to. In addition, alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs, such as marijuana, may contribute to the dysfunction. Erectile dysfunction in younger men. With younger men, psychological problems are the likeliest reason for erectile dysfunction. Tension and anxiety may arise from poor communication with the sexual partner or a difference in sexual preferences. The sexual difficulties may also be linked to these factors: Depression Fatigue Stress Feelings of inadequacy Personal sexual fears Rejection by parents or peers Sexual abuse in childhood
context: Your baby will probably be healthy, if you and your doctor manage your blood sugar while you have gestational diabetes. Right after you give birth, doctors will check your newborn's blood sugar level. If it's low, she may need to get glucose through an IV until it comes back up to normal. Gestational diabetes raises the chance that you will have a baby who is larger than normal. It's also linked to jaundice, in which the skin looks yellowish. Jaundice generally fades quickly with treatment. Although your child will be more likely than other kids to develop type 2 diabetes later on, a healthy lifestyle (including a good diet and lots of physical activity) can cut that risk. Because you had gestational diabetes, you have a greater chance of developing type 2 diabetes. But it won't definitely happen, and you can take action to prevent that. Your blood sugar levels will likely return to normal about 6 weeks after childbirth. ( Your doctor will check on that.) If it does, you should get follow-up tests every 3 years. To lower your risk: Try to keep your weight in a healthy range. Not sure what that is? Ask your doctor. Eat a good diet that includes lots of vegetables, whole grains, fruits, and lean protein. Make exercise a habit. If you plan to have another baby, keep in mind that you are more likely to get gestational diabetes again. Ask your doctor if there are any lifestyle changes that would help you avoid that.
context: Irritable bowel syndrome can be tough to live with. How tough? A 2015 survey from the American Gastroenterological Association found that 47% of people with IBS would give up their cell phone just to feel 1 month of relief from their symptoms. In about a third of cases of this digestive disorder, people also get diarrhea. That's known as IBS- D. Let your doctor know about your symptoms -- even if talking about them feels uncomfortable -- because there are more treatment options than ever. Alosetron ( Lotronex). For a long time, this was the only prescription medication approved to treat the condition. It can help relieve stomach pain and slow your bowels to relieve diarrhea. But there can be serious side effects, so it's only to be used by women with severe IBS- D whose symptoms aren't helped by other treatments. A similar drug called ramosetron is being studied. It may have fewer side effects, but more research is needed. Eluxadoline ( Viberzi). This signals your nervous system to help stop bowel spasms. It can also ease belly cramps and diarrhea. Rifaximin ( Xifaxan). Though it's not clear what causes IBS- D, some experts believe the culprit may be too much bacteria in the small intestine. Rimaxifin is an antibiotic that was approved by the FDA in 2015 to treat IBS- D. It's been shown to reduce both stomach pain and diarrhea. Antidiarrheal drugs. In some cases, over-the-counter medicines like loperamide ( Imodium) can improve diarrhea symptoms for people with irritable bowel syndrome. Probiotics. Your gut has trillions of bacteria -- some helpful and some harmful. Some people may find that these so-called âgoodâ bacteria offer relief from IBS- D symptoms like bloating and cramping. But more research is needed to find out which probiotic strains are best, and at what doses. Bile-acid binders. These drugs help make your bowel movements more solid and less frequent. Antidepressants: Medicines called tricyclic antidepressants can help reduce belly pain, particularly if you also have depression or anxiety. If you don't have depression, your doctor may still prescribe these, but in smaller doses. Antispasmodics. These drugs have long been used to help treat the symptoms of IBS- D by slowing down your bowels to make bathroom visits less frequent and less painful. Mast cell stabilizers. About a quarter of people with IBS- D also have gastroenteritis, which makes your gut become inflamed. Some experts believe that could be a trigger for IBS. Mast cells control the release of histamine, which causes inflammation. These drugs help lower the amount of histamine your body makes. K-opioid antagonists. Scientists are doing clinical trials of a promising drug called asimadoline, which may help reduce stomach pain and diarrhea without causing constipation.
context: Chest pain and rapid heartbeat. These symptoms can be related to lung or heart problems, even serious ones like a heart attack. But they also can be symptoms of depression and anxiety, what doctors call "anxious depression." These chest pains can often be chronic in those suffering from depression, but may be felt suddenly in those suffering from anxiety. If you are having these symptoms, see a doctor right away to rule out serious heart, gastrointestinal, or lung problems. If your heart is fine, you may be suffering from another problem such as heartburn, depression, or anxiety. There is a complex and close biological relationship between depression, anxiety, and the heart, research shows. Depression has been linked to heart disease. When you are under stress or having a panic attack, the body releases stress hormones like cortisol as part of our natural "fight or flight" response. These hormones can trigger physical symptoms like chest pain and a rapid heartbeat that may feel like a heart attack. Could your chest pain and rapid heartbeat be related to depression? One way to find out is to keep a symptom diary. Print out this symptom diary, and fill it out. Then take it to your doctor to discuss what may be causing your symptoms.
context: Cortisol is a hormone that is important throughout the body to maintain blood pressure, blood sugar, metabolism, and respond to infections and stress.. Your doctor may want you to be tested to see if you have the right level of cortisol in your blood. Cortisol is made by your adrenal glands -- two small glands that sit on top of your kidneys. Along with helping you respond to stress, it also plays a key role in other functions, including how your body breaks down carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins. Tests can detect whether you have a condition called Cushing syndrome, which involves having too much of the hormone. It can also check for Addison's disease, which is caused by having too little. The tests also help screen for other diseases that affect your pituitary and adrenal glands. Your doctor might order a cortisol test if he sees symptoms that suggest your levels are either too high or too low. Your cortisol blood level can be measured in three ways -- through your blood, saliva, or urine. Often, this test is done twice in the same day -- once in the morning, and again later in the afternoon, around 4 p.m. That's because cortisol levels change a lot in the course of a day. The test itself is simple: A nurse or lab technician will use a needle to take a blood sample from a vein in your arm. Your results will show the level of cortisol in your blood at the time of the test. Your doctor will tell you if yours falls in the normal range. If your level is too high, your doctor might follow up with other tests (urine or saliva) to make sure the results aren't due to stress or a medication that acts like cortisol in your body. Studies show this the saliva test is about 90% accurate in diagnosing Cushing syndrome. You'll do it at night, before you go to bed. That's because cortisol levels tend to be lowest between 11 p.m. and midnight. A high cortisol level near midnight can signal a disorder. You can purchase salivary cortisol tests at drugstores. But for the most accurate results, see your doctor to have it done. He might want to compare the result against other tests. Your doctor might order this to test what's called âfreeâ cortisol. This means the cortisol isn't bound to a protein like the kind blood tests measure. If you doctor prescribes a urine test, you'll need to provide a 24-hour sample. This means you'll pee into a special container or bag every time you need to use the bathroom over the course of a full day. In addition to the tests listed above, your doctor may order other blood tests to pinpoint the cause of your abnormal cortisol levels. Some things, like abnormal growths or tumors, can affect them. If he suspects this may be the case, your doctor will order a CT scan or an MRI.
context: This is a busy time! Your toddler is running and climbing. She can say up to 50 words (or even more) and may be putting 2 words together into a simple sentence. It can also be a challenging time. Your child may be moody, easily frustrated, and testing rules. Being consistent with discipline should help. Talk about any concerns that you may have with your pediatrician. Here's what to expect at your toddler's 2-year checkup. Weigh and measure your child Perform a physical exam of your child Catch up on any vaccines Is your child physically active? What words is she learning? Does she respond to 2-step commands? Is it normal that my child is a picky eater? How much fat should my child be eating? How will I know if my toddler is overweight? Try to eat meals together at the dinner table and not in front of the TV. A family that eats together grows together! Family dinners are a great way to promote bonding and health. Give your child a variety of nutritious foods like vegetables, fruits, and dairy products. Let your child feed herself and choose what she eats. If your child doesn't like a particular food, keep offering it. She may change her mind later. At this stage, your child should be eating about 3 meals and 2 healthy snacks a day. Don't worry if your child doesn't eat much at times. Most of the time, it should balance out. This is a good time to start making the transition to 2% or 1% milk. How much exercise do toddlers need? My child likes to sit and play quietly. How can I get her to be more active? Give your child plenty of opportunities to be active. Learning how to throw, kick, and catch builds physical confidence. Play together as much as possible and make fun the top priority. Be active as a family. It's a great way to spend time together while moving your bodies! Limit the amount of TV your toddler watches. Remember that toddlers learn by your example. So make sure to set a good one!
context: UTIs are bacterial infections in the urinary system. They're very common and usually not serious, though there can be exceptions. Your urinary tract includes your bladder, kidneys, ureters (tubes that go from your kidneys to your bladder), and urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body from your bladder). If you have a UTI in your kidneys, doctors call it pyelonephritis. If it's in your bladder, the medical term is cystitis. Anyone can. But they're more likely when you: Are a woman Have had UTIs before Have a condition that affects your bladder's nerves (including diabetes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and spinal cord injuries) Have been through menopause Are overweight Have something that blocks the passage of urine, such as a tumor, kidney stone, or an enlarged prostate Use a diaphragm or spermicide for birth control Have a catheter, a tube placed into the bladder to drain urine from the bladder into a bag outside the body Are a man who has sex with men, has HIV, or hasn't been circumcised Most of these traits also raise the odds that a simple bladder infection may become a more serious kidney infection or turn into sepsis (an infection that has gotten into your bloodstream). For pregnant women, a kidney infection can lead to delivering a baby too early. Most UTIs are due to bacteria that are normally found in your gut, such as E. coli. Other bacteria that can cause them include staphylococcus, proteus, klebsiella, enterococcus, and pseudomonas. Some bladder infections in both men and women are linked to sexually transmitted infections, including Chlamydia trachomatis, mycoplasma, and ureaplasma. The parasite trichomonas can also cause similar symptoms. If you have a problem with your immune system, from an autoimmune disease or diabetes, you're more likely to get UTIs because your body can't do a good job fighting off the germs that cause these infections. Women are more likely to get UTIs because the tube that goes from the bladder to the outside (the urethra) is much shorter than in men. Because the urethral opening is closer to the anus in women, it's easier for bacteria from stool to get into their urethra. Contact and fluids spread during sex also make it easier for bacteria from the vagina and anus to get into the urethra. In men, a bladder infection is almost always a symptom of another condition. Often, the infection has moved from the prostate or some other part of the body. Or it may mean that a stone, tumor, or something else is blocking the urinary tract. Chronic kidney infections sometimes happen because of a structural problem that allows urine to flow from the bladder back to the kidneys or because the bladder doesn't empty completely. These problems are often found at an early age, but they affect adults, too. In rare cases, UTIs can happen because there's an abnormal connection between the bladder or urethra and another organ or passageway like the intestines or uterus.
context: When you watch your diet because you have diabetes, you'll want to pay special attention to carbohydrates, because they can affect your blood sugar level faster than protein or fat. You get carbs from sweets, fruit, milk, yogurt, bread, cereal, rice, pasta, potatoes, and other vegetables. It can help to count your carbs from things you eat or drink, and split them evenly between meals so that it's in line with how much insulin is available from your body or from medicine. If you get more than your insulin supply can handle, your blood sugar level goes up. If you eat too few carbohydrates, your blood sugar level may fall too low. With carbohydrate counting, you can pick almost any food product off the shelf, read the label, and use the information about grams of carbohydrates to fit the food into your meal plan. Counting carbs is most useful for people who use insulin several times a day or wear an insulin pump, or want more flexibility and variety in their food choices. The amount and type of insulin you are prescribed may affect the flexibility of your meal plan. You don't have to count carbs. You could use diabetes food exchange lists instead. Ask your doctor or a registered dietitian for their advice on that. Fiber helps control blood sugar. It also helps you lower your âbadâ ( LDL) cholesterol. Most Americans need more fiber in their diets. The average American only gets about half the fiber needed on a daily basis. You get fiber from plant foods, so plan to eat more of these foods: Fresh fruits and vegetables Cooked dried beans and peas Whole-grain breads, cereals, and crackers Brown rice Bran products Nuts and seeds Although it's best to get fiber from food sources, fiber supplements can also help you get the daily fiber you need. Examples include psyllium and methylcellulose. Increase your fiber intake slowly to help prevent gas and cramping. It's also important to also increase the amount of liquids that you drink.
context: First, ask your primary care doctor for a referral to palliative care. Remember: you don't have to give up your relationship with your regular doctors to receive palliative care services. The palliative care team will work with your other doctors. In most cases, patients receive palliative care in the hospital. But other health care settings offer palliative care, too, including assisted living facilities, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, and hospices. Your doctor may inform you about local palliative care offerings, but if not, you can use the resources below to locate palliative care in your community. Most insurance plans cover palliative care treatment in full or partially. Typically, Medicare and Medicaid also cover palliative care. If you're concerned about costs, speak to a social worker from the palliative care team. Most doctors welcome the services that a palliative care team provides to their patients. However, on rare occasions, a primary care doctor might hesitate to make a referral. If you encounter this problem, ask your doctor for an explanation. You can also ask the palliative care team to help you explain why you would like such services. Then you can speak with your primary care doctor about how palliative care could benefit you. These national resources can help you to locate palliative care programs and providers in your area: Getpalliativecare.org Palliativedoctors.org National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization Center to Advance Palliative Care: The center, based at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City, has a mission to increase availability of palliative care services. It operates a web site for patients and families called "getpalliativecare.org." This site provides general information on palliative care and links to news stories. It also offers patients' personal stories and links to resources for them and their caregivers. The resources range from financial and caregiver help to information about specific diseases. National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization This nonprofit organization is the nation's largest to represent hospice and palliative care programs and professionals. It engages in advocacy for patients and families, develops educational programs and materials, and conducts research. The American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine This professional organization represents more than 4,000 doctors who specialize in hospice and palliative medicine, as well as other professionals who are interested in the field. The site explains palliative care and offers patient stories, caregiver advice and resources, and information on when to seek hospice. National Institutes of Health: Clinical Trials on Palliative Care The U. S. lists detailed information on clinical trials of palliative care on this site.
context: It is not uncommon for men with erectile dysfunction ( ED) to feel angry, frustrated, sad, or even unsure of themselves. While there are many medical causes of ED, studies have shown that men with ED may be twice as likely to develop clinical depression as compared to those without ED. Depression that accompanies ED is treatable. The first step in overcoming depression is to be honest with yourself, your partner, and your doctor. After depression has been brought out into the open, coping with it will be easier and less stressful. Depression is an illness marked by persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness, and a pessimistic outlook. The most common symptoms of depression include: Low self-esteem Loss of interest in formerly pleasurable activities Fatigue Changes in appetite Sleep disturbances Apathy Depression affects the way one feels about oneself and the way one thinks about life. People who are depressed cannot simply "pull themselves together" and get better. Without treatment, symptoms of depression can persist for months or even years. Appropriate treatment, however, can help most people who suffer from depression get back on track. If you have ED and think you may be depressed, do not suffer in silence. Depression is not a sign of personal weakness. Tell your doctor how you are feeling so that you can start feeling like yourself again. There is no single test that can diagnose depression; however, there are certain patterns that doctors look for in order to make the diagnosis. As a result, your doctor will ask you several questions. Be honest with your answers so that you can receive the care you need. Treatment for depression may include medication, psychotherapy (talk therapy), or a combination of both. Antidepressants: Many different drugs, including Prozac, Zoloft, Elavil, and Wellbutrin, are used to treat depression. Some antidepressants can cause or worsen ED, so be honest with your doctor about your condition so that he or she can prescribe an appropriate treatment. Talk therapy: During therapy, a licensed and trained mental health care professional helps you identify and work through issues related to ED and depression. Types of talk therapy include couples therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
context: The person is seriously injured or unconscious. The hand is numb or cold. The skin under the fingernail is blue. A bone is sticking out of the skin. The bleeding doesn't stop after several minutes of firm pressure. Blood spurts from the wound. Apply firm pressure with a clean cloth until bleeding stops. If the bone is pushing through the skin, do not touch it or try to put it back in place. Apply an ice pack (do not put ice directly against the skin). If possible, remove any jewelry immediately. If the person's hand is numb or cold or the skin under the fingernails is blue, do not move the hand or arm. Otherwise: Have the person bend the arm at the elbow. Do not try to straighten the hand if it bent or deformed. Tie a splint on the lower arm with fabric or elastic bandages. Cardboard, rolled-up newspaper, or other stiff material can be used as a splint. Make a sling and place the person's arm in it. Tie the sling around his or her neck. The health care provider will likely take X-rays and check for feeling and range of motion in the hand to determine whether there has been nerve or tendon damage. The health care provider may apply a splint or cast. Surgery may be needed for more complicated fractures.
context: Bad breath, or halitosis, isn't something to ignore. Those close to you would certainly agree. Could bad breath be from poor dental hygiene, an underlying health problem, or simply the cook's heavy hand with the garlic? Regardless, you can take steps to prevent and treat halitosis, both at home and with the help of your dentist or doctor. Foods and beverages: What you eat and drink can cause bad breath. Foods are absorbed into your bloodstream and move to the lungs, affecting the air your exhale. Brushing or using mouthwash can briefly mask the odor. But halitosis lasts until the culprit is no longer in your body. Common offenders include: Onions Garlic Cheese Pastrami Certain spices Orange juice or soda Alcohol Likewise, dieters who may be eating too infrequently can also experience bad breath. Dry mouth: Saliva is needed to cleanse the mouth. If you don't have enough of it, simply having a dry mouth can cause bad breath. Poor dental hygiene: When you don't thoroughly clean your teeth, gums, and tongue each day, bad breath may result from remaining bits of rotting food and the growth of bacteria in your mouth. Inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) from poor dental hygiene can also cause bad breath. Health problems: Sometimes bad breath can signal a larger health problem, such as: Sinus infection Chronic lung infection Liver or kidney disease Gastrointestinal problems Diabetes There are a number of simple things you can try to get rid of bad breath. Change what you eat and drink. Keep track of the foods you eat and try to: Avoid foods and beverages that cause bad breath. Eat more fruits and vegetables, and less meat. Drink more water. Suck on sugar-free mints if your mouth tends to get dry. Avoid tobacco use of any kind. Brush your teeth, gums, and tongue with fluoride toothpaste at least twice a day. Make sure to reach the gum line as well as tooth surfaces. Floss at least once a day. Rinse with an antiseptic mouthwash twice a day. If you wear dentures, remove them while you sleep. Brush and soak them during the night in a disinfecting solution. Clean braces and retainers as directed by your dentist. Be sure to see your dentist at least twice a year for regular checkups and professional cleaning. Your dentist can spot and treat bad breath causes such as gum disease. Ask your dentist about other potential solutions for halitosis. For example, for dry mouth, your dentist might recommend artificial saliva. Also talk to your dentist before buying halitosis kits or products for controlling bad breath. If changes you make don't help, the dentist may refer you to a doctor to see whether an underlying health problem could be causing the bad breath. You can also go over a list of your medications with the doctor to see if any of them could be contributing to the problem. Or, if you use tobacco, get guidance from your doctor on ways to kick the habit.
context: One morning, your child wakes up with the classic signs of sickness: Runny nose. Sore throat. Body aches. You check his temperature: It's high. So is it a cold or the flu? And if it's the flu, what should you do? The flu and the common cold are both caused by viruses, and the symptoms can be similar -- a stuffy or runny nose, achy muscles, fatigue, a sore throat, fever, or a headache. The biggest difference is how fast your child feels those symptoms -- and how bad they are. A cold will seem to creep up on him in a few days, but the flu is more like a surprise attack: he'll feel very sick, very quickly. And while he might run a fever with a cold, the flu almost always causes one, which can make him feel tired, achy, and weak. Kids are more prone to have vomiting and diarrhea with the flu, too. In general, flu symptoms happen throughout the entire body, instead of just in the head. Call the doctor. The flu often goes away on its own after a week or so, but in some cases, it can cause serious complications. Kids under 5 -- especially those younger than 2 -- are more likely to have those problems, as are kids who have other health conditions like asthma. It's important to let the pediatrician know if you think your child may have the flu. Manage the symptoms. The most important things your little patient needs are plenty of rest and fluids. There aren't a lot of over-the-counter cold or flu meds that are safe for young children, but you can try giving acetaminophen or, for kids older than 6 months, ibuprofen. ( Do NOT give children aspirin.) They can help bring down a fever and ease aches and pains. If your child has a bad cough, your doctor may also prescribe cough medicine. Ask about antiviral drugs. They're prescription medications that can treat the flu by preventing the virus from multiplying inside the body. But to work well, your child has to start taking them ASAP -- within 48 hours of when symptoms first appear. He'll probably take the medicine -- which comes in pill, liquid, or inhaler form -- for 5 days. Antiviral drugs can make his flu symptoms milder and help him get better faster. Studies also say they make people less likely to get other serious health problems, like pneumonia. Know when to get help. It's important to pay attention to any signs of flu complications. Alert your pediatrician if your child has a high fever for more than 48 hours, is getting sicker, or is not better. ( That's over 101 degrees in kids who are at least 3 months old -- for younger kids, call the doctor for any fever). Other red flags include signs of dehydration (dry eyes and mouth, peeing very little), unusual breathing (wheezing, panting, or trouble taking a deep breath), or a bluish tint to the lips or face. You should also call the doctor if your child seems âout of itâ or won't eat or drink. The flu is very contagious, so it's important to keep your child home if he starts feeling sick. Once his fever has been gone for at least 24 hours -- without him taking fever-reducing medication -- it's safe to send him back to the classroom.
context: The time of a woman's life following menopause is called postmenopause. During this time, many of the bothersome symptoms a woman may have experienced before menopause gradually decrease. But as a result of several factors, including a lower level of estrogen, postmenopausal women are at increased risk for a number of health conditions, such as osteoporosis and heart disease. A woman is considered to be postmenopausal when she has not had her period for an entire year. Having your doctor measure your follicle stimulating hormone ( FSH) level is another way to see if you are near menopause. FSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland (located at the base of the brain). Your FSH levels will dramatically rise as your ovaries begin to shut down; these levels are easily checked through one blood test. FSH levels can fluctuate during perimenopause, so the only way to know you are definitely postmenopausal is when you have had no period for a year. Once you are postmenopausal, you may regain your energy, but you may also be at higher risk for certain conditions. Medication and/or healthy lifestyle changes may reduce the risk of some of the conditions associated with menopause. Because every woman's risk is different, talk to your doctor to learn what steps you can take to reduce your individual risk. The possibility of pregnancy usually disappears once you have been without your period for an entire year. But, continue using contraception until your doctor determines that you truly are postmenopausal. Even if you are postmenopausal, getting regular check-ups and preventive screening tests such as pelvic exams, Pap smears, breast exams, and mammograms are among the most important things you can do for yourself. How often you need a check-up depends on your health history. Talk to your doctor to determine how often you should be seen.
context: Tips for cancer prevention include: Avoid smoking. If you do smoke, quit. Avoid too much sun exposure and wear sunscreen outdoors. Eat a nutritious diet and exercise regularly. Maintain a healthy weight. Get proper cancer screening for your age, gender, and risk factors. Take proper precautions around carcinogens and industrial chemicals, such as wearing gloves and making sure there is enough ventilation. Watch your alcohol intake.