VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: A narcolepsy diagnosis requires several tests. A doctor will perform a physical exam and an in-depth medical history to rule out other causes of symptoms. Keep in mind that having some of the major symptoms of narcolepsy doesn't necessarily mean you have narcolepsy. In addition, several specialized tests, which can be performed in a sleep disorders clinic, usually are required before a diagnosis can be established. Two tests that are considered essential in confirming a diagnosis of narcolepsy are the polysomnogram ( PSG) and the multiple sleep latency test ( MSLT). In addition, questionnaires, such as the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, are often used to measure excessive daytime sleepiness. During the Epworth Sleepiness Scale test, you will be asked to answer eight questions using a scale from zero (not at all likely to fall asleep) to three (very likely to fall asleep). The resulting total score is between 0 and 24. Scores of 0 to 10 are normal. Total scores 10 or above generally warrant further investigation. A sleep study, or polysomnogram ( PSG), is a test performed in a sleep lab. It electronically transmits and records specific physical actions of the body while you sleep, such as muscle movement, breathing patterns, and brain activity. The recordings are analyzed by a qualified sleep specialist to determine whether or not you have a particular sleep disorder. What to Expect During a PSG If you're scheduled for a PSG, you will arrive at the sleep lab about two hours prior to bedtime without making any changes in your daily habits. You will be assigned to a private bedroom in a sleep center or hospital. Near the bedroom will be a central monitoring area, where the technicians will monitor you while you sleep. You will be hooked up to equipment that may look uncomfortable. However, most people fall asleep with little difficulty. Your whole night's sleep will be monitored and recorded. Performed the morning after the overnight polysomnogram, also in a sleep lab, this test measures how long it takes a person to fall asleep (sleep latency) during the day. During this test, you will be asked to take four or five scheduled naps every two hours. The first nap starts two hours after awakening that morning. People with normal sleep and alertness take about 10-20 minutes to fall asleep. People with narcolepsy (and other causes of abnormal sleepiness) take a much shorter time (less than five minutes) to fall asleep. Two weeks prior to these tests, you will be asked to keep a sleep diary that records bedtime, wakeup times, and nap times. Your doctor will work with you to create a plan to gradually eliminate medications that could affect the sleep test results.
context: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation use medications or high-energy X-rays to kill cancer cells. Immunotherapy is different because it uses your own immune system to fight off the cancer. Some immunotherapy treatments help your immune system find the cancer or work harder to attack it. Others give you man-made versions of proteins or other substances to help your body fight the disease. Immunotherapy is a type of biologic therapy. Immunotherapy is approved to treat certain kinds of cancer, including melanoma, lymphoma, and lung cancer. Immune-based treatments for many other types are being tested in clinical trials. It's a relatively new treatment compared with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, but it's commonly used to treat some cancers. It works better on certain forms of the disease than others. Depending on the type of cancer you have, you might get immunotherapy: With or after another treatment, like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy By itself as a first treatment As part of a clinical trial if other treatments haven't worked and your cancer has spread This type of treatment isn't right for everyone. It doesn't work on all types of cancer. And if surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy has stopped your cancer from growing, you might not need it. Immunotherapy might be for you if it's approved for your cancer. Even if it isn't, you still might be able to get it in a clinical trial if your first treatments didn't work. Ask your doctor if any trials are testing out new immunotherapy treatments for your cancer type. Here are questions to ask your doctor to decide if it's right for you: Are any immunotherapy treatments approved for my cancer? If not, are any clinical trials testing these treatments for my cancer? How might it help my cancer? Will I get it alone or with other treatments? How will I get it (by shot, pill, etc.)? How often will I need it? What kinds of side effects can it cause? For how long will I need to take it? What happens if it doesn't work? Make sure you understand how it might help you and what side effects it can cause before you start treatment.
context: Salmon, berries, broccoli, almonds, and kale are among the superstars of the dietary world. But they're not the only nutritional powerhouses out there. Many other foods that haven't earned celebrity status are also worthy of a spot on your plate. Start with these nine. 1. Cauliflower Broccoli is the relative that gets all the attention, but its paler cousin is no wallflower. Like other cruciferous veggies, cauliflower is a good source of vitamin C and fiber. Like broccoli, it also has a natural plant chemical called sulforaphane that may hold promise against cancer, according to early lab tests done in animals. Many other things also affect your cancer risk, but diet is one of the easiest to control. 2. Sardines These small fish have big nutritional value. Sardines are a great source of good-for-you omega-3 fatty acids, and few foods are as high in vitamin B12. They're also rich in vitamin D, calcium's partner in bone strength. 3. Tempeh You know about tofu, but have you tried tempeh? Tempeh is also made from soybeans, and it's also packed with nutrients -- like protein, potassium, and calcium. 4. Beets These brightly colored root vegetables look rough on the outside, but they're softer and sweeter once you cook them. Beets are high in antioxidants, which may help protect against cancer and other chronic diseases. Plus, their juice, which is rich in nitrates,has been found to lower blood pressure and increase blood flow to the brain. If you're an athlete, snacking on beets might even help improve your performance. 5. Artichokes You can grill it, bake it, and eat the leaves or the heart. Finish off the whole artichoke, and you'll only get about 60 calories and almost no fat, not counting any dip or sauce you ate it with. High in fiber, it will fill you up so you won't splurge on higher-fat foods. 6. Kefir This bubbly form of fermented milk has been a dietary staple in the Caucasus Mountains of Eastern Europe for many years. Recently, it's started to catch on in the U. S. Kefir is high in "good" bacteria called probiotics. It's also being studied for its anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer effects. 7. Prunes ( Dried Plums) Prunes, which are dried plums, do much more than keep your digestion regular. They're also high in antioxidants and fiber. A quarter-cup has 104 calories and 12% of the fiber you need in a day. You can eat them as-is, chop them up and add them to muffins or other baked goods, or include them in smoothies, cereals, sauces, or stews. 8. Lentils Lentils aren't as popular as beans, but they're just as much of a health food superstar. You don't need to soak them before you cook them. Substitute them for meat in soups or stews, and you'll get a hearty boost of protein and fiber for a lot less fat. 9. Seaweed Unless you're a fan of sushi, seaweed may never have passed your lips. But this member of the algae family is definitely worth a try. Because it absorbs nutrients from the sea, seaweed is rich in many vitamins and minerals, especially calcium and iron. It's also high in protein and low in fat.
context: Chronic pain can be caused by many different factors. Often conditions that accompany normal aging may affect bones and joints in ways that cause chronic pain. Other common causes are nerve damage and injuries that fail to heal properly. Some kinds of chronic pain have numerous causes. Back pain, for example, may be caused by a single factor, or any combination of these factors: Years of poor posture Improper lifting and carrying of heavy objects Being overweight, which puts excess strain on the back and knees A congenital condition such as curvature of the spine Traumatic injury Wearing high heels Sleeping on a poor mattress No obvious physical cause Ordinary aging of the spine (degenerative changes) Disease can also be the underlying cause of chronic pain. Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia are well-known culprits, but persistent pain may also be due to such ailments as cancer, multiple sclerosis, stomach ulcers, AIDS, and gallbladder disease. In many cases, however, the source of chronic pain can be a very complex and even mysterious issue to untangle. Although it may begin with an injury or illness, ongoing pain can develop a psychological dimension after the physical problem has healed. This fact alone makes pinning down a single course of treatment tricky, and it is why health care providers often find they have to try a number of different types of curative steps.
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(); }); } Bleeding is severe You suspect internal bleeding There is an abdominal or chest wound Bleeding can't be stopped after 10 minutes of firm and steady pressure Blood spurts out of wound Apply direct pressure on the cut or wound with a clean cloth, tissue, or piece of gauze until bleeding stops. If blood soaks through the material, don't remove it. Put more cloth or gauze on top of it and continue to apply pressure. If the wound is on the arm or leg, raise limb above the heart, if possible, to help slow bleeding. Wash your hands again after giving first aid and before cleaning and dressing the wound. Do not apply a tourniquet unless the bleeding is severe and not stopped with direct pressure. Gently clean with soap and warm water. Try to rinse soap out of wound to prevent irritation. Don't use hydrogen peroxide or iodine, which can damage tissue. Apply antibiotic cream to reduce risk of infection and cover with a sterile bandage. Change the bandage daily to keep the wound clean and dry. The wound is deep or the edges are jagged or gaping open. The wound is on the person's face. The wound has dirt or debris that won't come out. The wound shows signs of infection, such as redness, tenderness, or a thick discharge, or if the person runs a fever. The area around the wound feels numb. Red streaks form around the wound. The wound is a result of an animal or human bite. The person has a puncture wound or deep cut and hasn't had a tetanus shot in the past five years, or anyone who hasn't had a tetanus shot in the past 10 years.
context: When your baby's teeth start to poke through the gums, usually between 4 and 7 months, the signs shouldn't be hard to spot. Crankiness, drooling, and less interest in feeding are all classic symptoms of teething. But what if your baby is running a fever? Is it another sign of teething, or could she be sick? Teething can raise your baby's body temperature, but only slightly. Any fever over 100.4 F is a sign that your child is probably sick. Every baby is different. Some barely whimper when they're teething. Others cry and are cranky for long periods of time. It's probably teething if your baby: Drools a lot Is extra fussy or cranky Cries more than usual Chews on teething rings or other firm objects Your baby is most likely to show these signs when the front teeth come in. Expect the worst of the symptoms to hit between 6 and 16 months. A sick baby can also be cranky and have trouble eating and sleeping. Your baby has probably picked up a cold, stomach bug, or other illness if she: Has a runny or stuffed nose Is sneezing or coughing Has diarrhea or is vomiting Has a rash If you're still not sure what's going on, check with your pediatrician. If your baby is teething, the best way to calm him is to put pressure on his gums. You can massage them with a clean finger or give your baby a rubber teething ring to chew on. Cool objects feel good to a teething baby. But it can hurt her gums if it's too cold. Putting a teething ring in the freezer can also make it break open and leak. Instead, put the ring in the fridge until it's cool. If you don't have a teething ring handy, stick a wet washcloth in the fridge instead. Don't use gels that you rub on your baby's gums or teething tablets. They don't typically help, and some have belladonna (a poisonous plant) or benzocaine (a medicine that numbs his gums), and both can be harmful. The FDA has warned against these because of the possibility of a dangerous side effect: They can lower the amount of oxygen in the bloodstream. If your baby is over 6 months old, you may be able to give her ibuprofen ( Children's Motrin) or acetaminophen ( Children's Tylenol) to help with teething pain. But check with her doctor first. Teething babies can be cranky, and they often are. But watch for signs that your child is really sick. Call your doctor if your baby: Is under 3 months old and has a temperature over 100.4 F Is over 3 months old and has a fever over 102 F Has a fever that lasts longer than 24 hours Has diarrhea, vomiting, or a rash with the fever Is very sleepy or looks sick Can't be soothed Teething can be a frustrating time for both your baby and you. Remember that this is just another phase. In the meantime, keep your baby as comfortable as possible. And when those first teeth pop up, brush them each day with a soft-bristled children's toothbrush to keep them healthy.
context: Coping with depression is difficult for the person who is depressed, as well as their family and friends. The support and involvement of family and friends can be crucial in helping someone who is depressed. It is especially helpful if family and friends encourage the patient to stick with treatment and practice the coping techniques and problem-solving skills he or she is learning during psychotherapy. Make sure that your loved one is evaluated and treated by a trained mental health professional. This is essential to properly diagnose depression and find the right kind of treatment. Educate yourself, your family, and friends about mental health problems and depression in particular. This will help you understand what your loved one is experiencing. Someone with depression needs consistent support. This can be draining, especially if it lasts for long periods of time. It is, however, one of the most important parts of successful treatment. People with depression can feel alone and isolated -- giving consistent support and understanding are critical. Help the person with depression to stick to his or her treatment plan. This means making sure that medicines are available if prescribed, being available to participate in therapy sessions with the person if needed, helping make recommended lifestyle changes, and encouraging the person to follow up with the proper health care provider, especially if the treatment needs to be adjusted. Living with a person who has depression can be very difficult and stressful on family members and friends. Here are some suggestions for living with a person who has depression that may make things easier for you and more beneficial for the depressed person: Recognize that depression is often expressed as hostility, rejection, and irritability. Adopt an interaction style that puts the depressed person in charge. For example, instead of suggesting, " Let's go to the movies tonight," try this: " I'd like to see a movie tonight. Which one of these do you want to see with me?" Encourage the depressed person to seek professional help. Accompany and support your loved one, but make it clear that it is his or her responsibility to get better. Remember that treatment is very effective and your loved one will improve with treatment within a few months. Support opportunities for the depressed person to be rewarded, such as visiting friends or going out for activities. Don't force these, though. Make sure you notice and praise any significant improvement. Be genuine. Leave time for yourself and your own needs. Allow yourself to have time when you need a break. It will help both of you. Consider family or marital therapy: these forms of therapy may be beneficial in bringing together all those affected by depression and helping them learn effective ways to cope together. Consider turning to support groups, either for the depressed person, or for you as his or her family member.
context: Canola oil is one of the best oils for heart health. Made from crushed canola seeds, it has less saturated fat than any other oil commonly used in the U. S. Check out the numbers: Canola oil has 7% saturated fat, compared to 9% for sunflower oil, 13% for corn oil, and 14% for olive oil. Cutting down on saturated fats helps cut your cholesterol levels. Canola oil is also very high in healthier unsaturated fats. It's higher in the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid ( ALA) than any other oil except flaxseed oil. ALA is particularly important to have in your diet because your body can't make it. Studies show that ALA may help protect the heart through its effects on blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation. The FDA allows canola oil makers to label their products with a qualified health claim that there is "limited and not conclusive" scientific evidence that switching out saturated fat for the same amount of canola oil may reduce risk of heart disease. Because of its light flavor, high smoke point, and smooth texture, canola oil is one of the most versatile cooking oils. You can use it in a number of dishes and cooking methods, like: As a cooking oil for sauteing, stir-frying, grilling, and baking In salad dressings, sauces, and marinades To coat your pans for nonstick baking Instead of solid fats (such as margarine and butter) in recipes Some Internet sites claim that canola oil has high levels of erucic acid, a substance that can be toxic to humans and can lead to ailments ranging from respiratory distress to blindness. But canola oil has levels of erucic acid well below the FDA's standards.
context: Want to guard your joints against damage from RA? Keep them in good shape with some tweaks to your lifestyle. Diet, exercise, and using the right tools can make a huge difference. If you carry extra pounds, be kind to your joints and shed a few. Added body weight puts more stress on your hips, knees, and feet. Those extra pounds can make it harder to keep your RA joint pain and symptoms under control. Regular exercise helps your joints work like they should, eases stiffness, and relieves fatigue. It strengthens the muscles that support your joints. An extra perk: It cuts your odds of heart disease, which often go along with RA. Be careful, though. Too much exercise, or the wrong type, can be bad for you if your joints are inflamed or damaged. Do things that put the least amount of body weight on your joints. Try swimming, stationary cycling, and light weight lifting. Your doctor or physical therapist can help design a program that's right for you. Help for your RA is just one more reason to quit tobacco. Research shows smoking can make it harder to treat the disease. Recent studies found that smokers with rheumatoid arthritis were less likely to benefit from two common treatments -- methotrexate and certain biologic drugs. Assistive devices can help take the stress off your damaged joints and protect them from injuries. For example, use a cane on the opposite side of the knee or hip joint with RA. It can take 20% to 30% of the weight off and make you more stable. You can also try pens, pencils, and toothbrushes with thick handles that make them easier to hold. To cut stress on your shoulders, use tools to help you reach for items on high shelves. Use your large, strong joints to spare smaller, fragile ones. Try these tips: Carry a shoulder bag instead of a clutch or handbag. Hold grocery bags in your arms, close to your body. Don't grip them with your hands. Hold small items in your palms instead of your fingers. Use both hands or your shoulder to open heavy doors. Hold items with two hands instead of one. It protects your shoulder, hip, and knee joints. When you lift, keep your back straight and your feet wide apart. Bend at your knees and hips, not your waist. When you're in a chair, rest your feet flat on the floor. Keep your knees and hips bent at a 90-degree angle. Sit upright and lift your chest. Although there's no specific diet to ease rheumatoid arthritis, some nutrients may help protect your joints: Omega-3 fatty acids. Studies show they can help lower the inflammation that comes with RA. Some good sources are fatty fish like salmon, herring, tuna, and sardines. You can also try fish oil supplements, but ask your doctor fist. Calcium and vitamin D. Many people with RA don't get enough of these nutrients. Both are important for strong bones and healthy joints. They also help hold off osteoporosis, which becomes more likely when you have RA. Most adults need 1,000-1,200 milligrams of calcium and 600-800 international units of vitamin D each day. Try nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, soybeans, salmon, and cheese.
context: There are a few different types of pelvic organ prolapse ( POP). They're named after where they happen in your body and what organs are involved. â Anteriorâ means front. An anterior prolapse can happen if you've had your uterus taken out (hysterectomy). There are two types of prolapses that can occur in the front side of your vagina, and they're the most common kinds of pelvic organ prolapse. They are: Bladder. This is also called a âcystocele.â It happens when your bladder drops down into your vagina. A cystocele can be mild, moderate, or severe, depending on how far your bladder drops. Urethra. When your bladder prolapses, the tube that carries pee out of your body (the urethra) can prolapse, too. Your doctor might call this a âurethrocele.â If both your bladder and urethra prolapse, it's called a âcystourethrocele.â As these prolapses get worse, you might feel -- and see -- them bulging out of your vagina. â Posteriorâ means back. These prolapses happen when the tissue between your vagina and rectum (the end of your large bowel) stretches or separates from the bones in your pelvis. There are two kinds of posterior wall prolapse: Rectocele. Doctors also call this a ârectal wall prolapse.â It happens when your rectum drops down and forward and then bulges into the back wall of your vagina. Rectal prolapse. This is different than a rectocele or rectal wall prolapse. With a rectal prolapse, part of your rectum turns inside out and pokes out through your anus. At first, you might think it's a big hemorrhoid. â Apicalâ means near the apex, or top. There are three kinds of apical prolapse: Enterocele. If you have this, it means your small intestine has dropped down and is bulging into the upper part of the back wall of your vagina. This can also happen at the top of your vagina, where the intestine sits on top and sinks down into it. Uterine. This is when your uterus (womb) drops into your vagina. Uterine prolapses are the second most common kind of prolapse. Your risk goes up as you get older. Vaginal vault. If you've had your uterus taken out (hysterectomy), your vagina may drop down toward its opening between your legs. That's because the uterus provides support for the top of the vagina. If it's removed during surgery, there's nothing for the vagina to hold on to. In severe cases, your vagina could turn inside out and fall through the vaginal opening.
context: Phosphatidylserine is a fatty substance called a phospholipid. It covers and protects the cells in your brain and carries messages between them. Phosphatidylserine plays an important role in keeping your mind and memory sharp. Animal studies suggest that the level of this substance in the brain decreases with age. Phosphatidylserine is taken to try to prevent memory loss and mental decline that may occur as you get older. Several studies suggest that it may boost your brain power. People who took the supplement scored higher on short-term memory, mood, and concentration tests. For example, they could better recall names and objects. Much more research is needed to confirm these results. Scientists have used phosphatidylserine in studies to treat symptoms of Alzheimer's disease. Again, there is not enough evidence that phosphatidylserine is of any help in treating this condition. Phosphatidylserine has been suggested in the treatment of the following conditions, as well: Multiple sclerosis Muscle soreness and stress in athletes who overtrain More research is needed before it can be recommended as a treatment for any of these conditions. The supplement used in early studies was made from brain cells taken from cattle. Because of concerns about infection with mad cow disease, a virus spread by cattle, scientists have developed a type of phosphatidylserine from plant sources such as soy or cabbage. Many people can take the soy-derived supplement without any side effects. Research is still preliminary but it is likely safe up to 600 milligrams a day for no more than 10 days. Side effects are more common at doses of 300 milligrams and above. They may include: Gas Stomach upset Trouble sleeping However, optimal doses of phosphatidylserine have not been established for any condition. Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely from maker to maker. This makes it very hard to establish a standard dose. Phosphatidylserine can affect how certain medicines work in your body. Talk to your doctor before taking this supplement if you also take: Any type of blood thinner or have any blood-clotting problems Anti-inflammatory medicines used for arthritis, headaches, or pain Performance-enhancing drugs or supplements used to increase athletic performance or stamina Always tell your doctor about any supplements you are taking, including natural ones and those bought without a prescription. That way, your doctor can check on any potential side effects or interactions with any medications. The U. S. Food and Drug Administration ( FDA) does regulate dietary supplements; however, it treats them like foods rather than medications. Unlike drug manufacturers, the makers of supplements don't have to show their products are safe or effective before selling them on the market.
context: Your immune system is made up of your white blood cells plus the organs and tissues of your lymph system, like your bone marrow. Its main job is to help your body fight off disease and stay healthy. Immunotherapy drugs help your immune system work harder or make it easier for it to find and get rid of cancer cells. Several immunotherapy drugs have been approved to fight cancer, and hundreds more are being tested in clinical trials (research studies that use volunteers to test new medicines). If immunotherapy seems like the best way to fight your cancer, your doctor may know of a clinical trial you can join. If your doctor suggests immunotherapy to fight your cancer, there's a lot to talk to them about before you decide if it's right for you. There are many reasons your doctor might think immunotherapy is a good choice for you: Immunotherapy may work when other treatments don't. Some cancers (like skin cancer) don't respond well to radiation or chemotherapy but start to go away after immunotherapy. It can help other cancer treatments work better. Other therapies you have, like chemotherapy, may work better if you also have immunotherapy. It causes fewer side effects than other treatments. This is because it targets just your immune system and not all the cells in your body. Your cancer may be less likely to return. When you have immunotherapy, your immune system learns to go after cancer cells if they ever come back. This is called immunomemory, and it could help you stay cancer-free for a longer time. Immunotherapy holds a lot of promise as a cancer treatment. Still, it can cause some problems. You might have a bad reaction. The area where the medication goes into your body could hurt, itch, swell, turn red, or get sore. There are side effects. Some types of immunotherapy rev up your immune system and make you feel like you have the flu, complete with fever, chills, and fatigue. Others could cause problems like swelling, weight gain from extra fluids, heart palpitations, a stuffy head, and diarrhea. Most of the time, these ease up after your first treatment. It can harm organs and systems. Some of these drugs can cause your immune system to attack organs like your heart, liver, lungs, kidneys, or intestines. It isn't a quick fix. In some cases, immunotherapy takes longer to work than other treatments. Your cancer may not go away quickly. It doesn't work for everyone. Right now, immunotherapy works for less than half the people who try it. Many people only have a partial response. This means your tumor could stop growing or get smaller, but it doesn't go away. Doctors aren't sure yet why immunotherapy helps only some people. Your body could get used to it. Over time, immunotherapy may stop having an effect on your cancer cells. This means that even if it works at first, your tumor could start to grow again.
context: DNA fingerprinting is a chemical test that shows the genetic makeup of a person or other living things. It's used as evidence in courts, to identify bodies, track down blood relatives, and to look for cures for disease. DNA is short for deoxyribonucleic acid, which is inside of every cell in your body. It's a chain of chemical compounds that join together to form permanent blueprints for life. These compounds are called bases, and there are 4 of them. They pair up with another to form what are called base pairs. Your DNA has about 3 billion of these couples. The way they're strung together tells your cells how to make copies of each other. The complete set of your compounds is known as a genome. More than 99.9 % of everyone's genome is exactly alike (100% if you are identical twins). But the tiny bit that's not is what makes you physically and mentally different from someone else. DNA fingerprinting uses chemicals to separate strands of DNA and reveal the unique parts of your genome. The results show up as a pattern of stripes that can be matched against other samples. Since it was invented in 1984, DNA fingerprinting most often has been used in court cases and legal matters. It can: Physically connect a piece of evidence to a person or rule out someone as a suspect. Show who your parents, siblings, and other relatives may be. Identify a dead body that's too old or damaged to be recognizable. DNA fingerprinting is extremely accurate. Most countries now keep DNA records on file in much the same way police keep copies of actual fingerprints. It also has medical uses. It can: Match tissues of organ donors with those of people who need transplants. Identify diseases that are passed down through your family. Help find cures for those diseases, called hereditary conditions. To get your DNA fingerprint, you would give a sample of cells from your body. This can come from a swab inside your mouth, from your skin, the roots of your hair, or your saliva, sweat, or other body fluids. Blood is usually the easiest way. Lab workers treat the sample with chemicals to separate the DNA, which is then dissolved in water. Your DNA is cut into smaller segments with another chemical process to get sections of 5 to10 base pairs that repeat themselves. Technicians copy those tiny sections millions of times to make the samples longer for easier study. Lab workers take those strips of DNA and mix them into a gel. Then they run an electric current through the gel, which separates smaller strands of DNA from the larger ones. A dye added to the gel makes the DNA strips stand out when they're placed against an ultraviolet light or lit up with a laser. The more these short segments are tested, the more accurate the DNA profile will be. The strips will show a barcode-like pattern that can then be compared to the results from another sample of DNA to find a match.
context: Don't let rheumatoid arthritis keep you from going out and doing the things you've always enjoyed. Whether you want to shop, eat out with friends, or go to a game, you can do it. You might just need to tweak your plans and do a little more to prepare. Plan ahead. If you're going somewhere new, do some phone or online research so you know what to expect. If you have a walker or wheelchair, is the building easy to use? If walking is hard, ask how far it is from the parking lot to the door. Be clear with your friends. Before you head out, be up-front about how your RA affects you. Ask your friends to be flexible. You may need to pare down the schedule a little and take time for breaks. Don't keep mum and then overdo it, or you could risk a flare. Start later. Mornings can be tough with RA, and it may take time for your stiff joints to loosen up. So plan outings for later in the morning when you can. Don't rush yourself unless you really have to. Get an aisle seat. Going to the movies? Sit by the aisle so you can stretch your legs. Carry carefully. Carry shopping bags over your forearm. You'll spare the weaker joints in your fingers and wrist. Whenever possible, put your purchases in a backpack or bag with a shoulder or cross-body strap. Come equipped. If shoulder pain makes it hard to reach high shelves, bring along a reacher -- a rod with a clamp at the end. Don't be shy if you need help. Ask for some assistance if you feel stressed or pooped. Lots of stores have motorized scooters. Some have people on staff who can help you. Bring your own utensils. If RA affects your wrists and hands, it may be hard to lift heavy glasses or grip thin forks or knives. If that's a problem, bring your own fork, knife, and spoon with you. Ask for drinks in plastic or paper cups, too. Take a chair. If RA in your hips makes it hard to sit, ask for a chair with arms. You'll find it easier to get up and down. Stay out of booths, which could be tough to manage. Avoid having to cut food. If your hands and wrists hurt, see if the kitchen will cut your food before it's served. You might be surprised by how many are willing to. Or order something that doesn't need cutting, like a stir-fry or pasta. Watch your alcohol. It's easy to lose track of drinks when you're out with friends. But if you're taking some RA medications, like methotrexate, you have to cut way down on alcohol or not drink at all.
context: Migraine headaches can be tough to treat. If your pain, nausea, and sensitivity to light or noise don't get better with over-the-counter or even prescription drugs, is there another option? Marijuana might be one under-the-counter remedy for migraine relief. Some research shows that it may help ease migraine symptoms or possibly keep them from starting. But most studies haven't found solid proof of that. And in some states, it isn't legal to buy, grow, own, or use marijuana, even for medical reasons. Make sure you find out about your state's laws before trying it. Marijuana is another name for cannabis, a bushy plant that's used to make paper, rope, and other products. Inside your brain and other parts of your body, you have a network of cannabinoid receptors. These are tiny loops of protein that affect how you feel pain. Marijuana has natural compounds called cannabinoids. When you use it, these cannabinoids go into your body and look for the receptors. They change how the receptors work, and they can calm down pain signals. Cannabinoids may also help with nausea, anxiety, muscle spasms, or other health problems. THC is the cannabinoid in marijuana that gets most of the attention. It's what makes you feel high or relaxed. But another product made from cannabis called cannabidiol ( CBD) doesn't make you feel intoxicated and may help ease pain. Several states have made it legal for CBD to be used for medical reasons. There's not a lot of research on this. In a study at the University of Colorado, 121 people who got regular migraine headaches used marijuana daily to prevent attacks. About 40% of them said the number of migraine headaches they got each month was cut in half. The people used different types of marijuana, but they mostly inhaled it to ease a migraine in progress and found that it did help stop the pain. Edible products didn't seem to work as well. The people who inhaled or smoked marijuana also said it was easier to control the amount of the drug they took in, and they had fewer negative reactions. If you smoke or eat marijuana, it can make you feel dizzy, weak, confused, sleepy, or moody. And smoking it on a regular basis could harm your heart and lung health over time. Short-term use doesn't seem to be bad for your general health. Marijuana is legal for medical use in more than half the states in the U. S. But each state has different laws about how you can buy it or how much you can have. In several states, it's still illegal to have it even if you have a medical problem that it could treat. If you have a job, it's a good idea to know your employer's rules around drug testing and use, even if it's legal for medical use in your state. Tests can tell if you have marijuana in your system. And it can stay there up to 30 days after you've used it.
context: Symptoms of insomnia last longer than four weeks or interfere with your daytime activities and ability to function. You are concerned about waking up many times during the night gasping for breath and are concerned about possible sleep apnea or other medical problems that can disrupt sleep. You have begun taking a new medication that could be interrupting your sleep. You notice an uncomfortable, painful, "crawling" sensation in your legs when trying to sleep or when your legs are not moving for prolonged periods (such as when driving or on an airplane flight). You notice excessive heartburn that keeps you awake at night. You wake up during the night due to physical pain. You have noticed changes in your mood (such as feeling depressed), energy and appetite -- clues that insomnia may be a possible of a broader health problem such as clinical depression. Worsening pain or increased difficulty breathing at night may indicate a need to seek emergency medical care.
context: If you have high cholesterol, you should talk with your doctor about what you eat, including meat. There are good, lean choices. For example, you can consider chicken or turkey breasts without skin; pork tenderloin; or beef round, sirloin, or tenderloin. Check the nutrition label on the package to be sure the meat is 96% to 98% fat-free. Also, limit your serving size according to your doctor's instructions. Or follow the TLC diet recommendations of no more than 5 ounces total per day of lean meat, poultry, or fish. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish with omega-3 fatty acids at least twice a week. Doing so can lower your risk of dying from coronary artery disease. Fish higher in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, sardines, tuna, and herring. Other healthy protein alternatives include dried beans and peas, nuts and seeds, low-fat dairy products, and soy products. Protein does not have to come from meat.
context: Do you ever feel like your heart misses a beat? There's a good chance that what you noticed was a heartbeat that happened sooner than it usually does. When that happens, and then follows up with a fluttery or skipped beat, it could be a premature atrial contraction ( PAC). You might also hear it called atrial ectopic beats or atrial premature beats. They're common, and most of the time, they don't need treatment. Your heart has four chambers. The upper two are the âatria.â If your heart's electrical system triggers the early or extra beat in the atria, the result is a premature atrial contraction. A similar condition -- premature ventricular contraction ( PVC) -- starts in the lower chambers, called âventricles,â of your heart. Any time your heart shifts out of its usual rhythm, doctors call it an âarrhythmia.â There are lots of different kinds, including PACs. When you have a PAC, you might notice: A flutter in your chest Fatigue after exercise Shortness of breath or chest pain Lightheadedness or dizziness Doctors don't always know the cause. But these things can make PACs more likely: Pregnancy High blood pressure, heart disease, or hyperthyroidism Stress or fatigue Caffeine Alcohol Smoking Cold or hay fever medicine Asthma medicine Dehydration Usually, premature atrial contractions have no clear cause and no health risks. In most cases, premature atrial contractions aren't a sign of heart disease and just happen naturally. But some people who have PACs turn out to have related heart conditions, such as: Cardiomyopathy (a weakened heart muscle) Coronary heart disease (fatty deposits in your blood vessels) If your doctor finds that you have a condition related to the premature heartbeats, you'll work together to make a treatment plan. When you have single or occasional PACs, there's usually no need to seek medical treatment. But if you have PACs often or if they really bother you, see a doctor. Based on your symptoms, your doctor may order one or more of these tests: Electrocardiogram, or EKG . This test will show if you have arrhythmia. Holter monitor. This is a portable version of an EKG that you'll wear for 1 or 2 days. It tracks all the electric activity of your heart for your doctor to study. Exercise stress test . This test has you attached to an EKG while doing physical activity like running or walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike. Echocardiogram. This test uses sound waves to measure how well your heart valves and muscles work. If your test results show that you have other heart-related problems, your doctor will recommend a treatment plan for you. Most of the time, though, PACs don't need treatment. If you have severe symptoms or find them bothersome, treatments can include: Lifestyle changes. Lower stress, stop smoking, cut back on caffeine, and treat other health issues like sleep apnea and high blood pressure. Medicines for arrhythmia. Take medications that are used to cut down on or end premature heartbeats.
context: Yohimbe is a tree native to Western Africa, where its bark has long been thought to boost libido. The active ingredient from the bark of yohimbe -- yohimbine -- is used in some prescription drugs for erectile dysfunction. There's a key difference between the natural supplement yohimbe and the chemical yohimbine. Although yohimbine comes from the yohimbe bark, it's concentrated and standardized. Studies have shown that drugs containing the chemical yohimbine work for erectile dysfunction. Yohimbine drugs have also been used to ease the sexual side effects of antidepressants and to treat low sex drive in women. However, it's not clear that yohimbe -- the natural product -- has the same benefits as yohimbine. Experts don't know if the amount of yohimbine in natural yohimbe is enough to have an effect. More research needs to be done. Yohimbe has been used traditionally for many conditions, such as fatigue, high blood pressure, and heart problems. Some people take it hoping that it will improve their athletic performance or help them lose weight. However, these uses have not been studied. Because yohimbe can have serious risks, don't use it without a doctor's supervision. Yohimbe bark is an unproven treatment. There is no standard dose. Be aware that using yohimbe for a long time -- or in high doses -- can be dangerous. There are no natural food sources of yohimbe. The bark extract is sometimes used to make a tea. Side effects. Yohimbe bark might cause skin flushing, rash, agitation, anxiety, insomnia, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, increased urination, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Risks. More serious side effects can include chest pain, heart attack, heart rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation, kidney failure and seizures. High doses have caused breathing problems, paralysis, severe low blood pressure, heart failure and even death. If you have any medical conditions -- like anxiety disorders, depression, other psychiatric conditions, heart problems, prostate problems, high or low blood pressure, kidney or liver disease, or Alzheimer's disease -- DO NOT take yohimbe supplements without talking to a doctor first. Interactions. If you take any medicines or supplements regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using yohimbe supplements. They could interact with many different drugs and supplements, including some antidepressants, stimulants (including caffeine), diabetes drugs, antihistamines, blood pressure drugs, tranquilizers, and antibiotics. Special precaution should be taken if you are using a monoamine oxidase inhibitor ( MAOI) medication. Use of yohimbe while taking MAOIs should be avoided due to the potential for very serious side effects. Do not take yohimbe with foods high in tyramine, like wine, aged cheeses, and cured meats. Given its serious risks, yohimbe should not be used by children or by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Yohimbe Overview Yohimbe Uses & Effectiveness Yohimbe Side effects Yohimbe Interactions Yohimbe Dosages
context: Sleep problems have been associated with medication use, drug abuse, and withdrawal from drugs. Sleep disturbances also have been linked to the use of alcohol and to alcoholism. Many prescription and nonprescription drugs can cause sleep problems. The severity of sleep problems caused by a drug will vary from person to person. Prescription drugs that may cause sleep problems include: High blood pressure drugs like beta blockers Hormones such as oral contraceptives Steroids, including prednisone Inhaled respiratory drugs Diet pills Seizure medications Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder stimulant medications Some antidepressants The following nonprescription drugs can cause sleep problems: Pseudoephedrine, including the brand Sudafed Medications with caffeine. These include the brands Anacin, Excedrin, and No- Doz, as well as many cough and cold medications. Illegal drugs such as cocaine, amphetamines, and methamphetamines. Nicotine, which can disrupt sleep and reduce total sleep time. Smokers report more daytime sleepiness and minor accidents than do nonsmokers, especially in younger age groups. Alcohol often is thought of as a sedative or calming drug. While alcohol may induce sleep, the quality of sleep is often fragmented during the second half of the sleep period. Alcohol increases the number of times you awaken in the later half of the night, when the alcohol's relaxing effect wears off. It prevents you from getting the deep sleep and REM sleep you need, because alcohol keeps you in the lighter stages of sleep. With continued consumption just before bedtime, alcohol's sleep-inducing effect may decrease as its disruptive effects continue or increase. The sleep disruption resulting from alcohol use may lead to daytime fatigue and sleepiness. The elderly are at particular risk for alcohol-related sleep disorders, because they achieve higher levels of alcohol in the blood and brain than do younger adults after consuming an equivalent dose. Bedtime alcohol consumption among older adults may lead to unsteadiness if walking is attempted during the night, with increased risk of falls and injuries.