VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: Here are ways to reduce your risk of getting liver cancer: If you risk exposure to hepatitis, ask your doctor about getting immunized. Practice safe sex and avoid IV drug use. Drink alcohol only in moderation. If you work around chemicals linked to liver cancer, follow safety guidelines to avoid unnecessary contact. Before taking iron supplements, check with a doctor to make sure you really need them. Do not use anabolic steroids unless medically necessary.
context: Gas pain is common in babies and rarely a cause for concern. Your child seems sick. Your child vomits blood or green or yellow liquid. Your child has blood in her stool. Your child cries for longer than two hours. Your child has pain in the lower right side. Your child's abdomen seems to be distended and causing pain. Don't overfeed your child. Hold her upright. Burp your child often. Rock your child gently. Move your child's legs as if he was pedaling a bicycle. Rub your child's stomach lightly. Lay her across your lap and pat her back. Place a warm towel or water bottle on your child's tummy. If formula-feeding, talk with your pediatrician about switching to a soy-based formula or, if your child is older than 1 year, soy or almond milk. If an older child has gas pain after having milk products, talk to your doctor about lactose intolerance, especially if there is a family history of it. If you're breastfeeding, you don't need to be concerned about your own diet causing gas pains in your baby. There's no evidence that a mom's diet has an effect on gas in babies.
context: The research is clear: Vaccines don't cause autism. More than a dozen studies have tried to find a link. Each one has come up empty. The debate began in 1998 when British researchers published a paper stating that the measles-mumps-rubella ( MMR) vaccine caused autism. The study looked at only 12 children, but it received a lot of publicity. At the same time, there was a rapid increase in the number of kids diagnosed with the condition. The paper's findings led other doctors to do their own research into the link between the MMR vaccine and autism. At least 12 follow-up studies were done. None found any evidence the vaccine caused autism. An investigation into the 1998 study also uncovered a number of problems with how it was conducted. The journal that published it eventually retracted it. That meant the publication no longer stood by the results. There were other problems, too. For example, investigators learned that a lawyer looking for a link between the vaccine and autism had paid the lead researcher more than £435,000 (equal to more than a half-million dollars). A year after the British study, fears about a possible vaccine-autism link shifted from MMR to a substance used in some children's vaccines. It was called thimerosal, and it contained mercury. That's a metal that's harmful to the brain and kidneys at high levels. Doctors used thimerosal to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi in vaccines. There was no evidence that the small amount used in the medicines caused harm. Still, it was taken out of most children's vaccines by 2001 at the urging of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the U. S. Public Health Service. To see if thimerosal was linked to autism, researchers studied children who received vaccines that contained it. They compared them to kids who received vaccines that didn't. The CDC conducted or paid for nine different studies looking at thimerosal and autism. It found no link. What's more, autism diagnoses continued to rise after vaccine makers took thimerosal out of almost all childhood vaccines. ( Today, trace amounts of it remain in the vaccines to protect against diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis, known as DTa P and DTa P- Hib.) Researchers have also looked to see if all the vaccines required before age 2 somehow together triggered autism. Children receive 25 shots in the first 15 months of life. Some people feared that getting all those shots so early in life could lead to the development of autism. But the CDC compared groups of children who received vaccines on the recommended schedule and those whose vaccines were delayed or didn't get them at all. There was no difference in the autism rate between the two groups. In 2004, the Immunization Safety Review Committee of the Institute of Medicine published a report on the topic. The group looked at all the studies on vaccines and autism, both published and unpublished. It released a 200-page report stating there was no evidence to support a link between vaccines and autism.
context: Biotin is a coenzyme and a B vitamin. It is also known as vitamin H. Because biotin is present in so many different kinds of foods, deficiency is rare. As a supplement, biotin is sometimes used for hepatitis, brittle nails, neuropathy, and other conditions. Biotin plays a key role in the body. It supports the health of the skin, nerves, digestive tract, metabolism, and cells. One small study suggested that biotin and other micronutrients helped treat peripheral neuropathy, nerve pain in the extremities that can result from kidney failure or diabetes. Biotin supplements have been studied as a treatment for a number of conditions. Biotin might decrease insulin resistance and nerve symptoms related to type 2 diabetes. More research needs to be done. Some preliminary evidence suggests that biotin might help strengthen brittle nails. Other uses of biotin -- for conditions like cradle cap, hepatitis, hair loss, and depression -- are unsupported or untested. However, most people don't need biotin supplements. We get biotin in foods naturally. Our bodies also recycle the biotin we've already used. Genuine biotin deficiency is quite rare. Pregnant women sometimes have low levels of biotin, so some take biotin supplements. The benefits and risks aren't clear. The Institute of Medicine has set an adequate intake ( AI) for biotin. Getting this amount from diet, with or without supplements, should be enough to support good health. Category Biotin: Adequate Intake ( AI) 0-6 months 5 micrograms/day 7-12 months 6 mcg/day 1-3 years 8 mcg/day 4-8 years 12 mcg/day 9-13 years 20 mcg/day 14-18 years 25 mcg/day 19 years and up 30 mcg/day Pregnant women 30 mcg/day Breastfeeding women 35 mcg/day Depending on your case, your doctor might recommend a higher dose. Even at high levels, biotin appears to be fairly safe. Researchers don't know at what dosage biotin might start to pose health risks. Biotin occurs naturally in many foods. Wheat germ, whole-grain cereals, whole wheat bread, eggs, dairy products, peanuts, soya nuts, Swiss chard, salmon, and chicken are all sources of biotin. Side effects. Biotin seems to be safe and well-tolerated, even at fairly high levels. The maximum safe dose of biotin is unknown. Risks. If you have any medical conditions -- or are pregnant or breastfeeding -- check with a doctor before using biotin supplements. Don't give biotin to a child unless a pediatrician recommends it. Interactions. If you take any drugs regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using biotin supplements. Biotin might weaken the effect of certain medications. Conversely, many drugs can lower biotin levels, including some antibiotics. Some epilepsy drugs may decrease biotin absorption from food. A supplement, lipoic acid, may also increase the need for biotin. Eating raw egg whites on a regular basis can also lower biotin levels in the body.
context: Is knee replacement surgery on your calendar? Do yourself a big favor and start to prepare now. It can make your recovery go a whole lot easier and faster. Plan early. Even before you set a date, think about how an operation will affect your life. Things may be stressful after joint replacement for at least a few weeks. Prepare now to make the surgery go smoothly and to speed up your recovery. Ask questions. Gets specific information from your doctor. How long will the surgery take? Could I have the surgery as an outpatient, without a hospital stay? What type of anesthesia will you need? What kind of rehab will you get? What type of assistive devices will I need at home after the procedure? Should you bank blood before the procedure? How long will you likely be off work? Write down the answers. Better yet, have a trusted friend or family member come to your appointment to take notes. Move and lose it. If possible, try to get in better shape before your surgery. You'll recover more quickly if you're physically fit. Ask your doctor which exercises you should do before the operation. Working your arms and upper body, for example, will make it easier for you to get around on crutches or a walker. If you're heavy, aim to drop some weight to lighten the stress on your knees. Quit smoking. If you use cigarettes or other tobacco products, stop or cut down. Smoking slows your recovery and makes your wounds take longer to heal. It also raises your chances of complications and infection during and after the surgery. Practice. Before surgery, learn the physical therapy exercises you'll need later. Try them out. If you get used to them now, they'll be easier to do later. If you'll need crutches or a walker, test drive those, too. Jot it down. Chances are, you'll be asked for the same medical and insurance information over and again in the coming weeks. Carry a handy list of: All your medication and supplements Any health conditions you have Your insurance policy and membership numbers Your doctors' names and phone numbers Persons to contact in an emergency Line up help. You're going to need it while you recover. If you live on your own, recruit a relative or close friend to stay with you for a while. Ask a neighbor to take out the garbage or bring in the mail. Freeze extra meals or stock up your pantry before you head to the hospital. Get your home ready. Move things in your house so it'll be easier to get around when you're less mobile. You might need to set up a temporary bedroom on the first floor. Clear your hallways to make room for crutches or a walker. Consider installing safety rails in the bathroom. Keep everything you need -- from your phone to your coffee maker â within easy reach. Follow orders. Your doctor will instruct you on what to do in the few days before surgery. They might have you stop some meds, especially ones that can make you bleed more during surgery. Mark detailed orders on a calendar so you won't forget.
context: It's how much blood your heart pumps in 1 minute. Your doctor uses the measurement to see if you might have heart problems or to check how well a treatment works. Your blood carries oxygen and nutrients to your cells, and it takes away wastes like carbon dioxide. If your heart pumps too little or too much blood through your body, it could be a sign of heart failure or other medical problems. It's different for different people, depending on their size. Usually, an adult heart pumps about 3-4 liters of blood per minute at rest. But when you run or exercise, your heart may pump 3-4 times that much to make sure your body gets enough oxygen and fuel. Your cardiac output is your heartbeats per minute multiplied by the amount of blood pumped with each beat. Your doctor can measure it in lots of ways. Pulmonary artery catheter. Your doctor inserts this device into the artery that sends blood to the lungs to pick up oxygen. Echocardiogram. This uses sound waves to make an image of your heart and blood flow through your heart. Arterial pulse waveform analysis. These calculate the cardiac output from shock waves created by blood flow. If your heart doesn't pump enough blood to supply your body and tissues, it could signal heart failure. Low output also could happen after you've lost too much blood, had a severe infection called sepsis, or had severe heart damage. Sometimes, sepsis, your body's response to blood infections that can lead to a dangerous drop in blood pressure and organ failure, can cause high cardiac output. High output also can happen when your body lacks enough oxygen-carrying red blood cells, a condition called anemia. That makes your heart pump more blood faster. Another common cause is hyperthyroidism, which is when your thyroid gland makes more thyroid hormones than needed.
context: Restless legs syndrome ( RLS) is a disorder of the part of the nervous system that affects movement of the legs. Because it usually interferes with sleep, it also is considered a sleep disorder. People with restless legs syndrome have an irresistible urge to move their legs (and sometimes arms) to relieve sensations that are described as an uncomfortable, "itchy," "pins and needles," or "creepy crawly" feeling deep in the legs, typically in the calves. The sensations are usually worse at rest, especially when lying in bed, and can lead to sleep deprivation, anxiety and depression. The severity of RLS symptoms ranges from mild to intolerable. The symptoms are generally worse in the evening and night and less severe in the morning. While the symptoms are usually quite mild in young adults, by age 50 the symptoms may cause severe nightly sleep disruption that can significantly impair a person's quality of life. Restless legs syndrome affects about 10% of the U. S. population. It affects both men and women and may begin at any age, even in infants and young children. Most people who are affected severely -- 2% to 3% -- are middle-aged or older. RLS is often unrecognized or misdiagnosed. In many people, the condition is not diagnosed until 10-20 years after symptoms begin. Once correctly diagnosed, RLS can often be treated successfully.
context: Rheumatoid nodules are firm lumps under the skin. They tend to form close to joints in people affected by rheumatoid arthritis. How big are they? These bumps can be as large as a walnut or as small as a pea. What do they feel like? Some are doughy. Others are firm. Do they hurt? Not unless there's an underlying inflammation or sore, or they're close to a nerve. Do they move around? Some nodules can move. Others stay firmly in place because they're connected to tendons or other bands of tissue called fascia under the skin. Where do they form? Most often, you'll find them in spots that get bumped a lot or where there's a lot of pressure. The most common locations for rheumatoid nodules are: Hands Fingers Knuckles Elbows As you live with RA for a while, you can be more likely to have nodules. You might get them in your: Vocal cords: If they form here, you might get hoarse. Lungs, heart, and other organs: When they show up in these parts of your body, nodules can affect how they work. If you're confined to a bed, you might get them on places where your body touches the mattress: Heel Achilles tendon Back of your head Hip Tailbone No. Rheumatoid nodules don't give most people with RA any problems. It's OK to leave them alone f they aren't causing trouble. But if they hurt or make it harder to do daily activities because they put pressure on nerves, limit movement, or are in sensitive locations, talk to your doctor. Not everyone with RA gets them. Doctors believe these things can make you more likely to get nodules: They usually show up in people with more severe RA. Nearly all cases are in people who have substances called rheumatoid factor and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies in their blood. These are linked to inflammation. One study found that cigarette smoking increases nodules in people with RA. They may be more likely if your RA is extra-articular, meaning it affects body parts other than your joints. The most common are lungs and blood vessels. ( Your doctor will call this vasculitis.) Methotrexate (a common treatment for RA) can lead to this condition, which causes small nodules to form quickly around your finger joints. If that happens, your doctor will often switch you to another medicine. DMARDs (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs): Sometimes these common RA medications can cut the size of rheumatoid nodules. One that seems to work well is rituximab. Steroids: Some people get steroid shots directly into the nodules to shrink them. Surgery: If the lumps become infected or cause severe symptoms, like the inability to use the joint, you may need surgery to remove them. Just know that nodules often come back in the same spot after removal.
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(); }); } Most blisters caused by friction or minor burns do not require a doctor's care. New skin will form underneath the affected area and the fluid is simply absorbed. Do not puncture a blister unless it is large, painful, or likely to be further irritated. The fluid-filled blister keeps the underlying skin clean, which prevents infection and promotes healing. But if you need to pop a blister or it pops by itself: Use a sterilized needle (to sterilize it, put the point or edge in a flame until it is red hot, or rinse it in alcohol). Wash your hands and the area thoroughly, then make a small hole; the fluid will drain on its own. If the fluid is white or yellow, the blister may be infected and needs medical attention. Do not remove the skin over a broken blister. The new skin underneath needs this protective cover. Apply an antibiotic ointment or cream. Look for signs of infection to develop, including pus drainage, red or warm skin surrounding the blister, or red streaks leading away from the blister. Wear work gloves. Jobs you do only occasionally, such as shoveling snow or raking leaves, are great for raising a blister or two. Wear shoes that fit and are comfortable. New shoes should be broken in gradually. Wear padded socks or put some adhesive padding where your foot is rubbing.
context: Yes, you can! Being active is one of the best things you can do for yourself, even if you have rheumatoid arthritis ( RA). You just have to know how to work within your limits. Your doctor or a physical therapist can help you with that. When you make fitness a regular part of your life, the benefits include: Less pain from rheumatoid arthritis. Stronger bones. This is important because RA can thin your bones, especially if you take steroids. You'll move better and have more energy. It's good for your heart and all your other muscles. If you don't exercise now, check with your doctor first. Tell her what you want to do, and ask what types of things will be best for you and what you should avoid. You may also want to consult with a physical therapist to make a safe, effective workout plan. Your plan will likely include low-impact activities, like walking, swimming, bicycling, or using an elliptical machine. Any of these will get your heart pumping. You'll hear this called âcardioâ or aerobic exercise. Strength training uses resistance to work your muscles. You can use machines at a gym, hand-held weights, resistance bands, or even your own body weight. It strengthens muscles and increases the amount of activity you can do. Your physical therapist can show you what to do, tell you how often to do each exercise, and let you know how hard you should work when you work out. Stretching exercises should be gentle. Never stretch a muscle that's not warmed up. Ask your physical therapist how and when you should stretch. After your doctor says OK, try to do 20 to 30 minutes (or more) of low-impact conditioning exercise on as many days as you feel you can. Remember, some is better than none! Be careful about activities that put a lot of stress on a joint, or are "high-impact," such as: Jogging, especially on paved roads Heavy weight lifting It's a good idea to talk to your doctor first. Your rheumatologist can help you create an exercise program that is right for you. This may also involve meeting with a physical therapist. Physical therapists can identify what areas you need to work on, choose the right exercises for you, and tell you how vigorously you should exercise. There are also community exercise programs designed for people with arthritis. These include People with Arthritis Can Exercise ( PACE) and the Arthritis Self Help Course ( ASHC), which the Arthritis Foundation offers.
context: Many foods fall in and out of favor as health trends come and go. Not oatmeal. This whole-grain powerhouse has been packing serious nutrition and hearty flavor into breakfast for generations. It's one of the few comfort foods that are as good for you as they are just plain good. To get the most out of this super food, be a bit particular. Some packets of instant oatmeal, for example, are loaded with sugar -- as much as 8 teaspoons per serving -- and high in sodium. Always check the label to see what you're getting. Great oatmeal starts with plain rolled oats, or steel-cut oats, cooked in a little water or milk, and topped with wholesome ingredients. It's a feel-good start to the day, and if you make it a habit, it can do your health some favors. If you're on a gluten-free diet, look for oats that are certified gluten-free. Though oats themselves don't contain gluten, they can get tainted with gluten when they're being processed or growing, according to the Whole Grains Council. Oatmeal's most enduring claim to fame is its proven ability to curb bad ( LDL) cholesterol. Chalk that up to a type of soluble fiber called beta glucan. Eating oats is linked to an average 7% drop in LDL cholesterol, research shows. Many other things also affect your heart's health (like what else you eat, how active you are, and whether you smoke), but oatmeal is a simple heart-smart start. The fiber in oatmeal also helps you feel full and eat less later on during the day. Fiber also eases constipation and helps control blood sugars. When you shop for oats, you'll see several types on the store shelves. They're all based on "oat groats," which are the whole oat kernel. Instant oats: Oat groats that have been steamed and flaked. Rolled oats (also called regular or old-fashioned oats): Oat groats that have been steamed and rolled into flakes that are thicker (and thus take longer to cook) than instant oats. Steel-cut oats (also called Irish oats): You get the whole oat kernel, cut up. These take about 20 minutes to cook. Scottish oats: These are like steel-cut oats, but instead of being cut, they are ground. Oat groats: This is the whole oat kernel -- no cuts, flakes, or grinding. They take longer to cook than other oats. Give them 50-60 minutes to cook, after you bring the water to a boil. You can cook oatmeal on your stove top, in your microwave, or in a slow cooker. " Overnight Oats" are also popular. Oats are soaked overnight in a liquid such as milk or yoghurt. Your bowl of oatmeal gets even tastier when you top it with spices. Try cinnamon, ginger, or pumpkin pie spice. Swirl in a bit of almond butter, or any kind of nut butter. Or sprinkle walnuts (which are rich in heart-healthy omega-3s) or any of your favorite type nut on top. Spoon in some frozen berries, and the warmth of the oatmeal will defrost them for you. Or try applesauce, or dried fruit. You can add milk (dairy, almond, soy, or whatever else you like), too.
context: The initial treatment for a stress fracture is to elevate the extremity and rest while the bone heals itself. Ice the affected area for 24 to 48 hours and reduce your activity. For pain, you may use NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin. Depending on which bone is involved, your doctor may recommend a splint or cast to immobilize the affected area. When the swelling has decreased to the point you can see skin creases, you can begin partially putting weight on the area. In some cases, crutches or a cane is necessary. Usually, you can begin full weight-bearing at two weeks after the symptoms started, but don't do anything that causes pain. Weight-bearing stimulates healing. For the next six to eight weeks -- or until you're free of pain -- avoid the activity that caused the stress fracture, and avoid putting too much weight on the affected area. If you exercise again too soon, you could delay the healing process. You could even cause damage that may never heal properly. When you are ready to return to the activity, do it slowly. If you rush back in, you could re-injure yourself. Very severe stress fractures that won't heal on their own may require surgery. Full recovery may take months or years.
context: A stomachache that comes and goes, but never goes away for good, can truly be a pain. If you have at least three of them over 3 months, and they're severe enough to keep you from doing everyday activities, you have what doctors call ârecurrent abdominal painâ ( RAP). The treatment you need will depend on the cause of your pain. Adults and children can have RAP for many reasons, including some health problems. For children, they might include: Anxiety Depression Trouble digesting the sugar in milk products, called lactose intolerance Heartburn Constipation Urinary tract infection Abdominal migraines (stomach pain that comes back a lot without a known cause) Health issues that can cause RAP in adults include: Indigestion Constipation Period pain Stomach ulcers Urinary tract infection Liver or gallbladder problems Inflammatory bowel disease Irritable bowel syndrome Infection from a parasite Cancer Still, many adults and kids have RAP that's not caused by any clear medical problem. Then, it's called functional abdominal pain. Doctors don't know what causes it, but things like stress, personality, and genes may play a role. Another idea is that the nerves in the digestive tract are more sensitive than they are for most people. RAP feels different from person to person. The pain may start and stop without warning, or it could be ongoing. Some people describe it as a dull ache in their belly. Others have sharp cramps. Besides pain, there may be symptoms like diarrhea or throwing up. When you or your child sees the doctor about RAP, she'll ask about symptoms and family history. She'll want to know when the pain starts and what seems to make it feel worse or better. Then, she'll do a thorough physical exam. She'll probably take samples of blood and urine to do some tests. She also can order a scan to look inside your body for a problem, such as a CT scan, MRI, or an ultrasound. If you're over age 50, you may get a colonoscopy, which is when a doctor uses a thin, flexible tool with a camera to look for problems inside your colon and rectum. The results of these tests will help your doctor decide what kind of treatment will help you or your child the most. If a specific health issue is making your stomach hurt, you'll need to get treatment for that problem. Your doctor could also suggest lifestyle changes like eating different foods or finding ways to manage stress. Often, a mix of different things helps. If your belly pain keeps coming back for 6 months and your doctor can't find a medical reason why, you may have functional abdominal pain. Let your doctor know right away if you or your child has: Severe pain Blood in your stool, vomit, or pee Trouble swallowing Nausea that doesn't go away Yellow-looking skin Swelling in your stomach A belly that's tender to the touch Weight loss Fever For children, you should also call the doctor for: Lots of vomiting Severe diarrhea that doesn't go away Pain on the right side of the belly Your doctor will also want to know if your child isn't growing like she should, or if you have a family history of inflammatory bowel disease ( IBD).
context: A positron emission tomography ( PET) scan may be used to locate the part of the brain that is causing seizures. A PET scan is a test used to give doctors and their patients more information about how the cells in the body are functioning. A PET scan is done by injecting a small amount of radioactive material (known as a tracer) into a patient's vein, usually in the arm. The tracer sends out small, positively charged particles (positrons) that interact with negatively charged particles (electrons) in your body. The PET scanner is able to detect the product of this interaction and uses it to make an image. The PET scan shows the brain's use of oxygen or sugar (glucose). For patients with epilepsy, a PET scan is used to localize the part of the brain that is causing the seizure activity. However, doctors may request a PET scan for many different reasons. Aside from potential problems in the brain and spinal cord, the test can also be used to diagnose heart problems as well as certain kinds of cancer, including breast, brain, lung, colon, and prostate cancers and lymphoma. Before undergoing the PET procedure, be sure to tell your doctor of any medication -- prescription or non-prescription -- that you are taking, along with any herbal drugs or supplements you may be using. It is also very important that you tell the doctor if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, since the PET scan can be harmful to an unborn child. As the test is about to begin, you will be asked to take off clothing that is covering the area of the body to be tested. Depending on the area of your body being tested, you may be asked to undress completely and put on a hospital gown. You will also be asked to remove any dentures, jewelry, or metal objects during the scan, because these items may affect the reading. A PET scan usually lasts 45-60 minutes. You will be asked to lie down on a flat table that is next to a scanner computer and a camera. You will then be given the tracer through an IV. After that, the PET scanner, a doughnut-shaped instrument, will move in circles around you. As this is happening, the camera will take pictures of patterns left by the tracer chemical inside your body. After the PET scan is finished, you will likely be asked to drink a lot of water or liquids during the next day in order to get rid of or flush the tracer chemical from your system. Because radiation is part of the test, there is a very small risk that cells or tissue may have received some damage following the PET procedure. However, the radiation levels from the tracer that is sent throughout the body are very low. In addition, following the scan, patients may find that their arm is a little bit sore or that they experience redness where the IV was placed in the arm. PET scans are usually more extensive and detailed than similar tests that are available. Despite this, test results can usually be given to the patient a day or two after the scan.
context: When your doctor tells you that you have prediabetes, you might think there's no reason to take action just yet. Or you might assume that you're definitely going to get diabetes. Not so! You do need to take prediabetes seriously, but there's still time to turn things around -- if you start now. The goal is to get your blood sugar level out of the prediabetes range, and keep it that way. What you do every day makes a big difference. Making lifestyle changes may be even more powerful than just taking medication. That's what happened in a large study called the Diabetes Prevention Program: People with prediabetes who lost a small amount of weight through diet and exercise cut their odds of getting type 2 diabetes by 58%, compared to 31% for people who only took the prescription drug metformin. Start by making these three changes. If you're overweight, slimming down is the key to turning the odds in your favor. Research shows that shedding just 5% to 10% of your body weight is often enough to get blood sugar levels back into the normal range and avoid diabetes or at least delay its onset. To reach your goal, limit portion sizes; cut calories; and eat fewer foods that are high in fat (especially saturated fat), sugar, and carbohydrates. You should also eat a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. Leading an active life is a must. Aim for 30 minutes of aerobic activity (something that raises your heart rate, like walking, biking, or swimming) 5 days a week (150 minutes per week). Plus, do some strength-training exercise, like lifting weights or using resistance bands, at least twice a week. Strength work builds muscle, which helps lower your blood sugar level, helps your body respond better to insulin (which controls blood sugar), and burns calories even when you're not moving. Smoking is strongly linked to diabetes: People who smoke are 30% to 40% more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those who don't. And people with diabetes who continue smoking are more likely to develop complications such as heart disease and blindness. So the sooner you ditch the cigarettes, the better. While lifestyle changes can work wonders, some people with prediabetes also need medication. Your doctor may prescribe metformin if you have certain risk factors, such as low levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol, high triglycerides (a type of blood fat), a parent or sibling with diabetes, or are overweight. If you take metformin, you'll need to follow up with your doctor. You'll also need to keep up a healthy lifestyle. Take action now, and ask for extra help from your doctor, a nutritionist, or personal trainer if you need it.
context: Monoamine oxidase inhibitors are an extremely potent class of antidepressants that treat depression by preventing the breakdown of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine in the brain, increasing their availability. These medications are not used often because of their potential for drug interactions that can lead to problems with blood pressure, as well as the need to avoid foods that contain the amino acid tyramine. They also can be highly dangerous if there is an overdose. Generally, like most antidepressants, MAOIs should be used for bipolar depression only in combination with a mood stabilizer such as lithium or valproate, to minimize the risk of inducing mania. Antidepressants in this class of drugs that can be used for bipolar depression include: Isocarboxazid ( Marplan) Phenelzine ( Nardil) Selegiline ( Emsam) Tranylcypromine ( Parnate) Among these, Parnate has been the most extensively studied specifically in bipolar depression, leading in one randomized trial to improvement in over 80% of subjects. Like other classes of antidepressants, the MAOIs take several weeks to begin working. Your doctor may also prescribe a sedative to help relieve anxiety, agitation, or sleep problems while the antidepressant begins to work. You will also need to monitor what foods you eat to avoid side effects. Eating certain smoked, fermented, or pickled foods, drinking certain beverages, or taking certain medications can cause severe, sudden high blood pressure in combination with MAOIs. People taking these antidepressants must follow a special diet, which includes limiting certain cheeses, meats, and alcohol. In addition, some experts think that MAOIs may be especially likely to cause mood switches from depression to mania in people with bipolar disorder, and therefore, mood changes must be monitored closely. Common side effects of MAOIs may include: Difficulty getting to sleep Dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting Dry mouth, blurred vision, and appetite changes High blood pressure and changes in heart rate and rhythm Muscle twitching and feelings of restlessness Loss of sexual desire or ability Weight gain
context: Potassium is a mineral that many parts of your body, including your brain, nerves, heart, and muscles, need to work properly. You might be surprised at all of the things it does for you. It's an electrolyte, like sodium, calcium, and other minerals. They manage how much water you have in your body and help maintain your body's electrical system. Potassium also: Moves nutrients into your cells and takes waste out Counters the effects of sodium, which can help your blood pressure Your kidneys control how much potassium is in your body by filtering any excess out of your blood. Balance is key. If levels of potassium are either too low or too high, things can get off-kilter. How much do you need? Adults should get at least 4,700 milligrams of potassium every day. Most people, though, fall short. And while taking in too much potassium isn't a problem for healthy people, it can be if you have chronic kidney disease or take certain types of medicines. That's one reason why you should check with a doctor before you take potassium supplements. Here are some of the parts of your body potassium helps. Here are some of the parts of your body potassium helps. One key job for potassium involves the electrical signals sent by muscles. It lets them contract properly. If you have a low potassium level, you can get muscle weakness and cramps. Because it's a muscle, your heart needs potassium. It helps cells send the right electrical signals so that the heart pumps correctly. Having too much potassium in the body can alter the heart's rhythm. One key job for potassium involves the electrical signals sent by muscles. It lets them contract properly. If you have a low potassium level, you can get muscle weakness and cramps. Because it's a muscle, your heart needs potassium. It helps cells send the right electrical signals so that the heart pumps correctly. Having too much potassium in the body can alter the heart's rhythm. Normally, the kidneys are your body's exit ramp for most of the potassium that you take in each day, sending it out in urine. But in people with chronic kidney disease, potassium may build up and levels can become dangerously high. Normally, the kidneys are your body's exit ramp for most of the potassium that you take in each day, sending it out in urine. But in people with chronic kidney disease, potassium may build up and levels can become dangerously high. Potassium helps your nerves fire properly so that they respond to stimulation. Again, this happens via electrical signals that travel from cell to cell. As part of the nervous system, your brain also needs potassium. The mineral allows brain cells to communicate, both with each other and with cells that are farther away. Changes in potassium levels have been linked to learning, the release of hormones, and metabolism.
context: A latex condom may protect you from the herpes virus if it covers the infected area. Most people who have genital herpes don't know they're infected, so ask whether he or she has had any other sexually transmitted disease. People with a history of STDs are more likely to have genital herpes. It may be awkward, but it's important to be honest with each other. Your partner may be afraid to tell you the truth if he or she fears a negative reaction. If your partner feels comfortable talking with you, you'll be more likely to get straight answers. Someone who has had many sexual partners is more likely to be infected with the herpes virus. The fewer sexual partners you have in your lifetime, the less likely you are to be exposed to the herpes virus. If you know your partner has genital herpes, always abstain from sex when symptoms are present. Or, if you see a sore on someone's genitals, don't have sex with that person until you're sure he or she doesn't have genital herpes. Remember, not everyone with genital herpes has symptoms, and herpes sores can be very hard to spot. Oral herpes, which causes sores on the mouth (known as cold sores of fever blisters), can be passed to the genitals through oral sex. If you think your partner is at high risk for genital herpes, you may consider asking him or her to be tested. In that case, you should be tested, too. Alcohol and illicit drugs lower inhibitions and impair judgment. People tend to be less careful about practicing safer sex while intoxicated and they often regret it later. The only way to be 100% certain you won't get a sexually transmitted disease is to have just one sex partner who has no STDs -- and only if both of you stay monogamous. If you don't want to be monogamous or totally celibate until you find a life partner, you could greatly reduce the risk of getting a sexually transmitted disease by doing things that don't involve genital-genital contact or oral-genital contact, such as mutual masturbation.
context: Primary osteoarthritis is mostly related to aging. With aging, the water content of the cartilage increases and the protein makeup of cartilage degenerates. Repetitive use of the joints over the years causes damage to the cartilage that leads to joint pain and swelling. Eventually, cartilage begins to degenerate by flaking or forming tiny crevasses. In advanced cases, there is a total loss of the cartilage cushion between the bones of the joints. Loss of cartilage cushion causes friction between the bones, leading to pain and limitation of joint mobility. Damage to the cartilage can also stimulate new bone outgrowths (spurs) to form around the joints. Osteoarthritis occasionally can be found in multiple members of the same family, implying an heredity (genetic) basis for this condition. Rarely, some of these hereditary cases of osteoarthritis are caused by defects in collagen, which is an important component of cartilage. Secondary osteoarthritis is caused by another disease or condition. Conditions that can lead to secondary osteoarthritis include obesity, repeated trauma or surgery to the joint structures, abnormal joints at birth (congenital abnormalities), gout, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and other hormone disorders. Obesity causes osteoarthritis by increasing the mechanical stress on the cartilage. In fact, next to aging, obesity is the most powerful risk factor for osteoarthritis of the knees. The early development of osteoarthritis of the knees among weight lifters is believed to be in part due to their high body weight. Repeated trauma to joint tissues (ligaments, bones, and cartilage) is believed to lead to early osteoarthritis of the knees in soccer players. Interestingly, recent studies have not found an increased risk of osteoarthritis in long-distance runners. Crystal deposits in the cartilage can cause cartilage degeneration, and osteoarthritis. Uric acid crystals cause arthritis in gout, while calcium pyrophosphate crystals cause arthritis in pseudogout. Rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions of the joints lead to joint damage and eventual degeneration of the cartilage and osteoarthritis. Some people are born with abnormally formed joints (congenital abnormalities) that are vulnerable to mechanical wear, causing early degeneration and loss of joint cartilage. Osteoarthritis of the hip joints is commonly related to design abnormalities of these joints that had been present since birth. Hormone disturbances, such as diabetes and growth hormone disorders, are also associated with early cartilage wear and secondary osteoarthritis.
context: A jab from this critter's curvy tail is painful, but it rarely causes an allergic reaction. You might have minor problems, like pain, swelling, numbness, and tingling at the site. Put ice on the area to bring down the swelling. Take an antihistamine or use a hydrocortisone cream to ease inflammation and itching. It might be a different story if you live in the U. S. Southwest. The bark scorpion, which is common in this area, has venom that causes symptoms like fast breaths, high blood pressure, a racing heart, weakness, and muscle twitches. They're light tan with a little darker back, about 2-3 inches long, and if you have a UV light, they may glow in the dark. If you think one has stung you, call your doctor or go to the emergency room. If you can, bring the scorpion with you. Drop it into scalding water to kill it first. Then put the body in a storage bag or lidded box. To avoid stings: Wear shoes, particularly at night. Put on gloves when you work in the yard, lift rocks and logs, or collect firewood. When you camp, don't sleep on the bare ground. Shake out your shoes before you put them on, especially if you've left them outside or in a basement or garage.
context: Witnessing someone with epilepsy having a seizure can be truly frightening. But most seizures aren't an emergency. They stop on their own with no permanent ill effects. There isn't much you can do to stop a seizure once it starts. But there are simple steps you can take to protect someone from harm during a seizure. It's worth knowing some basic first aid -- and when it's time to call 911. Some are more dangerous than others. There are two main types: Focal onset seizures start in a single part of the brain. Her arm might start to move or her face start to twitch. And even though she's awake and aware, she can't control it. She might seem to zone out or stare at nothing as the seizure becomes complex. Afterward, she may not remember a thing. Generalized seizures involve multiple areas of the brain at once. People are rarely aware of what's happening. The most well-known type falls in this group: the generalized tonic-clonic seizure, also known as a grand mal seizure. These are frightening to watch and can be an emergency. They have a set sequence of events: The person may become unresponsive. She doesn't answer if you call. She won't react if you wave a hand in her face or shake her. She may suddenly collapse. Her muscles clench and she becomes rigid as a board. This is the tonic phase. It lasts a few seconds. Next, a series of jerking movements convulse her body. This is the clonic phase. It can last a few seconds or several minutes. Eventually, the jerking stops and she regains consciousness. She may be confused or disoriented for a short period. Any generalized seizure can be dangerous because the person is unaware of her surroundings and can't protect herself from harm. The uncontrolled thrashing movements during a generalized tonic-clonic seizure increase the chances of injury. This type is most likely to result in a trip to the emergency room. Seizure first aid is a matter of taking precautions. You're most likely to need it for a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Keep other people out of the way. Clear hard or sharp objects away from the person. Don't try to hold her down or stop the movements. Place her on her side, to help keep her airway clear. Look at your watch at the start of the seizure, to time its length. Don't put anything in her mouth. Contrary to a popular myth, you can't swallow your tongue during a seizure. But if you put an object in her mouth, she could damage her teeth or bite you. Milder seizures -- like brief periods of staring or shaking of the arms or legs -- aren't emergencies. But you should gently guide the person away from threats. He may be in a state like sleepwalking, where traffic or stairs pose a danger. All seizure activity should be reported to his doctor..