VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: If you have high cholesterol, you've probably been told to lower the LDL number from your blood test. LDL is the "bad cholesterol," the type that contributes to plaque that can clog your arteries. This can lead to a heart attack or stroke. But that's only part of the story. Research shows that only 50% of people who suffered heart attacks had high LDL levels. So, many doctors use another test called the C-reactive protein test to help figure out who's at risk. C-reactive protein ( CRP) is produced by the liver. Its level rises when there is inflammation in your body. LDL cholesterol not only coats the walls of your arteries, but it also damages them. This damage causes inflammation that the body tries to heal by sending a "response team" of proteins called "acute phase reactants." CRP is one of these proteins. One study found that testing for CRP levels is a better indicator of cardiovascular disease ( CVD) than the LDL test. But, it's important to know that a CRP test is not a test for heart disease. It's a test for inflammation in the body. The test is also used for people suffering from autoimmune diseases like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. They also cause inflammation. A doctor might test someone with either condition to see if anti-inflammatory medication is working, though the CRP test cannot determine where the inflammation is taking place. A variation of the CRP test, the high-sensitivity CRP (hs- CRP), is used to check for cardiovascular disease. It's a simple blood test. A sample is drawn from a vein, most likely in your arm. No special preparation is needed (like fasting) and the test is not painful beyond a sting on the arm from where needle is inserted. The test may be affected by medications you take, so ask your doctor if you need to cut back beforehand. The blood sample is tested at a lab. Here are what the results mean: hs- CRP level of lower than 1.0 mg/ L -- low risk of CVD (heart disease) hs- CRP level of 1.0 mg/ L and 3.0 mg/ L -- moderate risk of CVD hs- CRP level of more than 3.0 mg/ L -- high risk of CVD A high level could also be a sign of cancer, infection, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis, or another disease. It could also be high because you're in the second half of your pregnancy or you are using birth control pills. The hs- CRP test is most useful for people who have a 10%-20% chance of having a heart attack within the next 10 years. The test is not helpful for people with a higher or lower risk. Because your CRP level can vary, the test should be done two times (2 weeks apart) to determine your risk of heart disease. It's also important to remember that you could have a high reading without necessarily having heart disease. So, it's important to check your LDL levels as well to get a full picture of your CVD risk. Fortunately, the same statin medications that lower LDL have also been shown to lower CRP levels. In addition to any medicine, you should make some lifestyle changes (cut down on fatty foods, stop smoking, and start exercising) at the same time.
context: Bronchial thermoplasty is a treatment for severe asthma. It's a way to open your airways. The procedure uses gentle heat to shrink the smooth muscles in your lungs -- the ones that tighten during asthma attacks and make it hard to breathe. You'll go to a hospital to get bronchial thermoplasty. It's given in three separate sessions, with about 3 weeks between each. Each treatment lasts less than an hour, and a different part of your lungs gets treated each time. Bronchial thermoplasty doesn't cure asthma. But it may make you feel and breathe better. First, your doctor will test your lungs by checking to see how much air you can blow out. You'll take a steroid pill and, through a vein in your arm, you'll get medicine to make you sleepy. You may get other medicine to numb your mouth and throat. Your doctor will put a small tube called a bronchoscope through your mouth, down your throat, and into your lung. A smaller tube goes inside the bronchoscope and warms each small airway in that part of your lung. The heat is very mild -- cooler than a cup of coffee. You won't feel it or the tube touching your lungs. After the treatment, you'll likely rest for 3 or 4 hours. You'll also do another lung test. Depending on the results, you might spend the night in the hospital. Or you could go home the same day. A nurse will call you after each session to see how you're doing. Your doctor will check on your progress closely for 6 weeks after your last treatment. It's common to feel sleepy right after your treatment. You may also cough or wheeze some, or be short of breath. These symptoms usually go away in a week. In rare cases, you may need hospital care for your symptoms. There is a risk that the treatment will trigger a bad asthma attack that may even cause you to be hospitalized. This treatment is only for people with severe asthma. Your doctor may recommend it if you: Have asthma attacks that aren't controlled by inhalers or asthma medicines called beta-agonists Are ages 18 to 65 Have not smoked for the past year You need oral steroids to help control your asthma After bronchial thermoplasty, you'll still need an inhaler or other asthma medicines. But you may not use them as often. The goals of the treatment are: Fewer asthma attacks Fewer emergency room and hospital visits Fewer days lost from work, school, and other activities Better symptoms for up to 5 years after treatment
context: A pustule is a bulging patch of skin that's full of a yellowish fluid called pus. It's basically a big pimple. Several conditions, ranging from something as common as acne to the once-deadly disease smallpox, can cause pustules. They show up when you have some sort of infection your body is trying to fight it off with white blood cells. That can result in a mixture of infected fluid and dead white blood cells (pus). When pus builds up under your skin or in a pore, it can cause a pustule. Several conditions can lead to pustules: Acne: This very common skin condition causes pustules that are bigger than typical pimples. They happen when one of the pores in your skin gets so irritated that its walls break. Psoriasis: This is a skin condition that causes red, itchy, scaly patches on your skin. An infection, stress, certain chemicals, and some medications can all trigger an attack of pustular psoriasis. Rosacea: This skin condition normally makes the skin on your face red and causes pimples. But a form of the disease known as inflammatory rosacea can create pustules. Chickenpox: This childhood disease and other illnesses caused by a related virus cause skin lesions that become pustules as the disease progresses. Ig A pemphigus: Pustules are also a symptom of this rare disease that makes your immune system turn on itself. Smallpox: Pustules were one of the most obvious signs of this deadly disease that killed millions of people in past centuries. Thanks to a vaccine, it isn't a danger anymore, but samples of the virus are locked up in laboratories in the United States and Russia. Your doctor will treat the condition that's causing the pustules, but a topical medication you put directly on your skin or an over-the-counter treatment like calamine lotion or benzoyl peroxide gel might help with them in the meantime.
context: Hummus, that creamy dip that hails from the Middle East, has a reputation as a clean, healthy food. It deserves it. All the main ingredients are super foods in their own right. It's got chickpeas, sesame paste (tahini), garlic, and olive oil in most traditional versions. It's convenient to buy a plastic container of hummus at the store, but you'd be surprised at how easy it is to whip up at home. You'll save a few bucks and know exactly what's in your hummus. Just combine 1 can of chickpeas, 1/4 cup tahini, garlic to taste (try 1-2 cloves), 2 tablespoons olive oil, and the juice of half a lemon in a food processor or blender, and whirl until smooth. Tip: You can adjust the proportions of the ingredients to taste, depending on how strong you want the flavor to be and how thick you like your hummus. Start with less liquid than you think you might need. You can always add more as you blend it, but if you add too much, you've got a sauce, not a dip. Chickpeas, hummus's main ingredient, give you protein, good-for-you carbs, and fiber. Like other members of the legume family, they routinely top lists of the world's healthiest foods. Eating more plant foods is good for you. People who make that a habit are less likely to get certain diseases. Of course, lots of things affect your health -- there's no miracle food -- but a little hummus wouldn't hurt. Garlic and olive oil are two of the best-known and most studied ingredients. They're both part of the famously good-for-you Mediterranean Diet. These zesty seasonings give hummus its great flavor. There's plenty of nutrition-packed goodness in every scoop of hummus. There are also lots of calories: 408 per cup. You're not going to eat a whole cup of hummus, are you? Like anything else, you need to watch your serving size. You can get too much of a good thing. The classic partner for hummus is pita bread, usually in wedges made of white flour. Instead, pair your dip with a 100% whole-grain pita. You'll add fiber and vitamins to your lunch. Even better: Serve your hummus with veggies like cucumber slices, carrot spears, and red pepper wedges. You'll get even more nutrition without adding as many calories as a bread, chip, or cracker. If you order hummus in a restaurant, it's likely to be garnished with olive oil, which adds another 124 calories per tablespoon. A well-made hummus is rich and delicious enough to stand on its own. Ask your server to hold the slick stuff. Hummus isn't just for dipping. It makes a great sandwich spread, too. Try it instead of mayo. You'll get more protein and fiber for half the calories you would from mayonnaise. Hummus adds 1 gram of fat to your lunch box, compared to 5 grams for regular mayo.
context: Working closely with your doctor, you can manage your diabetes by focusing on six key changes in your daily life. 1. Eat healthy. This is crucial when you have diabetes, because what you eat affects your blood sugar. No foods are strictly off-limits. Focus on eating only as much as your body needs. Get plenty of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. Choose nonfat dairy and lean meats. Limit foods that are high in sugar and fat. Remember that carbohydrates turn into sugar, so watch your carb intake. Try to keep it about the same from meal to meal. This is even more important if you take insulin or drugs to control your blood sugars. 2. Exercise. If you're not active now, it's time to start. You don't have to join a gym and do cross-training. Just walk, ride a bike, or play active video games. Your goal should be 30 minutes of activity that makes you sweat and breathe a little harder most days of the week. An active lifestyle helps you control your diabetes by bringing down your blood sugar. It also lowers your chances of getting heart disease. Plus, it can help you lose extra pounds and ease stress. 3. Get checkups. See your doctor at least twice a year. Diabetes raises your odds of heart disease. So learn your numbers: cholesterol, blood pressure, and A1c (average blood sugar over 3 months). Get a full eye exam every year. Visit a foot doctor to check for problems like foot ulcers and nerve damage. 4. Manage stress. When you're stressed, your blood sugar levels go up. And when you're anxious, you may not manage your diabetes well. You may forget to exercise, eat right, or take your medicines. Find ways to relieve stress -- through deep breathing, yoga, or hobbies that relax you. 5. Stop smoking. Diabetes makes you more likely to have health problems like heart disease, eye disease, stroke, kidney disease, blood vessel disease, nerve damage, and foot problems. If you smoke, your chance of getting these problems is even higher. Smoking also can make it harder to exercise. Talk with your doctor about ways to quit. 6. Watch your alcohol. It may be easier to control your blood sugar if you don't get too much beer, wine, and liquor. So if you choose to drink, don't overdo it. The American Diabetes Association says that women who drink alcohol should have no more than one drink a day and men should have no more than two. Alcohol can make your blood sugar go too high or too low. Check your blood sugar before you drink, and take steps to avoid low blood sugars. If you use insulin or take drugs for your diabetes, eat when you're drinking. Some drinks -- like wine coolers -- may be higher in carbs, so take this into account when you count carbs.
context: Heat boosts the flow of blood and nutrients to an area of the body. It often works best for morning stiffness or to warm up muscles before activity. Cold slows blood flow, reducing swelling and pain. It's often best for short-term pain, like that from a sprain or a strain. But does it matter which one you use for an injury? This article will help you sort it out. Soothe aches and pains caused by conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, back pain, fibromyalgia, and neck pain with either heat or cold. Each can give you relief from these symptoms: Muscle aches, spasms, and pains Lower and upper back pain Stiff, swollen, or tender joints Neck stiffness Finger, hand, or wrist pain Knee pain For short-term pain relief of any of these conditions, apply a hot or cold compress using any of these items: An electric heating pad A gel pack that can be microwaved or frozen A bag of ice or frozen vegetables A washcloth or small towel soaked in hot or cold water (wring it out, fold it, and apply to the sore area) Whether you use heat or cold, be sure to wrap the pack in a thin towel to help protect your skin. Apply to the painful area for 15-20 minutes several times each day. Whether you use heat or cold, you may notice your skin looks a little pinker after applying the compress. That's normal, but let your skin return to its normal color and temperature before applying fresh ice or heat. Call your doctor if you notice any of the following signs after removing the compress. These symptoms mean the temperature was too extreme and may have caused skin damage: Skin that's purplish-red, dark red, or a spotty red and white color Hives Swelling Blisters Showers and baths aren't just for mornings. When you're hurting, stand under or settle into warm water for a few minutes to help soothe and relax you. ( If you're over 70 or have heart problems, check with your doctor before getting into a hot tub.) Try a warm shower or bath before you exercise to help loosen joints and muscles. Use cool water after exercise to help calm deep, burning pain and reduce inflammation. Want an easier -- and less painful -- start to your day? Warm your clothes in the dryer for a few minutes before you put them on. The heated garments may help ease morning pain and stiffness. Another way to apply heat -- especially to hands, elbows, and feet -- is warm, melted paraffin. You can buy paraffin wax kits at your local drugstore or beauty supply. A heated container safely melts the wax and mineral oil to make a paraffin bath. Dip your achy body part into the bath several times to build up a warm layer. Take it out of the bath, and cover it with plastic and wrap in a towel for 10-15 minutes until the wax cools. Unwrap and peel the wax away. To avoid irritation and pain, make sure the skin that you treat has no cuts or sores.
context: Nightmares occur from time to time in many children, but they are most common in preschoolers (children aged 3-6 years) because this is the age at which normal fears develop and a child's imagination is very active. Some studies estimate that as many as 50% of children in this age group have nightmares. Nightmares involve frightening or unpleasant dreams that disrupt the child's sleep on several occasions and cause distress or problems with everyday life. When children wake up because of a nightmare, they become aware of their surroundings and usually need comfort. As a result, these children often wake up their parents as well. Sleep is divided into two types: rapid eye movement ( REM) and nonrapid eye movement (non- REM). REM and non- REM sleep alternate in 90- to 100-minute cycles. Most dreaming occurs during REM sleep. Nightmares usually occur in the middle of the night or early morning, when REM sleep and dreaming are more common. A nightmare is a bad dream that usually involves some imagined danger or threat to the person having it. The child may dream about danger or a scary situation. Nightmares may involve disturbing themes, images, or figures such as monsters, ghosts, animals, or bad people. Loss of control and fear of injury are common themes. Children do not usually cry out or move around while they are having a nightmare. When the child wakes up and calms down, she often remembers what the dream was about. Nightmares are different from night terrors. Children with night terrors experience episodes of extreme panic. They are confused and often cry out and move around. During a night terror, waking the child is difficult, and the child often does not remember the dream that caused the terror. Exactly how or why nightmares occur is not known. However, being too tired, not getting enough sleep, having an irregular routine for sleep, and having stress or anxiety may all increase the risk of having nightmares. Nightmares can be related to the child's stage of development. Most nightmares are a normal part of coping with changes in our lives. For children, nightmares could be related to events such as starting school, moving to a new neighborhood, or living through a family divorce or remarriage. Some genetic and psychological factors can also lead to nightmares. About 7% of children who have nightmares have a family history of nightmares (their brother or sister or parents had nightmares). Nightmares are more common in some children, including those with intellectual disability, depression, and certain diseases that affect the brain. Nightmares may also be associated with fevers. Some medications can cause frightening dreams, either during treatment or after the treatment has stopped. Conflicts and stress that happen during the day can affect a child's sleep and lead to nightmares. Nightmares can also occur after a traumatic event. These nightmares may be a sign of post-traumatic stress disorder.
context: Despite the name, when you get painful blisters called cold sores, don't blame your cold. Cold sores are caused by a virus, but not the kind that makes you sniffle and sneeze. Instead, they happen because of an infection with the herpes simplex virus ( HSV). Cold sores, also called fever blisters, can show up anywhere on your body. They're most likely to appear on the outside of your mouth and lips, but you can also find them on your nose and cheeks. After the blisters form, you may notice that they break and ooze. A yellow crust or a scab builds up and eventually falls off, revealing new skin underneath. The sores usually last 7 to 10 days and can spread to other people until they crust over completely. Just about everyone. Up to 90 percent of all people get at least one cold sore in their life. The symptoms are usually the most severe the first you time you get cold sores. Sometimes kids who are affected may become seriously ill. After the first time you get cold sores, your body may develop antibodies, and you'll never have another infection. About 40% of U. S. adults, though, get repeated cold sores. Cold sores generally are not serious, but the infection may be life-threatening for anyone who has AIDS or whose immune system -- the body's defense against germs -- has been curbed by other disorders or medications. If you have a severe case of a skin condition called eczema, you may get cold sores over large parts of your body. Complications from a cold sore can occur, but they are rare. If the infection spreads to the eye, it could affect your vision. If it spreads to the brain, it could lead to meningitis or encephalitis. There are two types of herpes simplex virus that can cause cold sores: HSV type 1 and HSV type 2. Cold sores are usually caused by HSV type 1. You usually catch HSV when you come into contact with people or things that carry the virus. For instance, you can get it from kissing someone who's infected or when you share eating utensils, towels, or razors. Both HSV type 1 and type 2 can cause sores on your genitals. They can be spread by oral sex. Genital herpes is usually caused by HSV type 2. You may get cold sores as late as 20 days after you came into contact with the virus. Once the virus enters your body, the cold sore may appear near the part it entered. About 2 days before an attack, you may get itchy or feel sensitive at the spot. Some things can trigger an outbreak, such as: Eating certain foods Stress Fever Colds Allergies Sunburns Menstruation To protect other people, when you have cold sores, don't: Kiss anyone Share forks, knives, spoons, glasses, towels, lip balm, or razors Have oral sex
context: If it seems like you're constantly changing diapers, you're not imagining it. By the end of this year, you'll have changed 2,300 diapers! Parents of twins -- double that number. Triplets ... you get the picture. So you're not surprised when you open your baby's diaper, here's what to expect. Breastfed babies: Make yellow poop that's speckled with little seeds--like mustard Poop one or more times a day, usually after they eat Formula-fed babies: Have tan, yellow, or greenish poop Poop once a day, sometimes more often What's normal: Poop can come in a rainbow of colors, changing to yellow, green, or brown. Some babies don't poop for a day or two -- even a week. You don't need to worry as long as your baby is still eating and gaining weight. What's not normal (time to call your doctor): Poop that is filled with mucus, water, or blood could be a sign of an allergy or infection. Solid, hard poop means your baby is probably constipated. Your Baby's Development This Week You've seen a real transformation in the last month. Your little one has changed from a tiny newborn into a more active -- and interactive -- baby with a budding personality. As she hits the big 1-month mark, here are just some of the new things she's able to do: Move her head from side to side while lying on her tummy Turn her head toward the sound of your voice Coordinate her movements well enough to bring her hand to her mouth Focus on a toy that's 12 inches away, although her eyes may still cross and that's OK Recognize the smell of her mother's milk If your baby is constipated, try mixing a teaspoon of prune juice with breast milk or formula. Save the baby wipes for messy poop clean-ups. A damp washcloth is good enough for cleaning after a wet diaper. Your baby's neck muscles are getting stronger, but she still can't hold up her head on her own. Don't forget to support her neck whenever you carry her. Do not hold your baby while you are eating or drinking anything hot. When your baby seems ill, take her temperature with a rectal thermometer -- it's most accurate at this age. A rectal temperature at or above 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit is a sign your baby could be sick. Call the pediatrician right away. Your baby's one-month birthday is time for a well-baby visit. At the appointment, the doctor will measure your baby, check her health, discuss vaccines, ask how she's been eating and sleeping, and give some guidance for developmental goals. You've been focused on your baby for a month now. Don't forget about your partner. Get a babysittter so you can get some time alone with your partner.
context: Think you may have erectile dysfunction ( ED)? You may be surprised to learn that a lot of the things we know aren't good for your health can also affect your ability to get or keep an erection. Smoking : It increases your risk of hardening of the arteries. This reduces blood flow to the penis. It's that blood flow that helps you get an erection. Being overweight : Carrying extra pounds increases your risk of blood vessel disease, a cause of ED. Inactive lifestyle: If you want to reduce your chance of getting ED, get off the couch. Regular exercise can help to make sure that when the time comes, you're ready. Poorly managed diabetes : Diabetes can affect blood flow to your penis. Maintain a healthy diet, get regular exercise, and take your medicine as prescribed. High cholesterol: It can damage the linings of blood vessels, including those in the penis. It can also affect the arteries leading to your genitals. Eat right, exercise regularly, and take your meds. Alcohol: If you have more than two drinks a day, you could be hurting your ability to get an erection. Alcohol restricts blood flow to the penis and can hinder production of testosterone. Low testosterone can affect not only your performance, but your desire, too. Illegal drug use: Marijuana, cocaine, and other recreational drugs can cause ED by damaging blood vessels. They can also restrict blood flow to the penis. Stress and anxiety : These are leading causes of temporary ED. If your mind's too occupied, it's hard to relax enough to be âin the mood.â
context: Flexible sigmoidoscopy is a test that a doctor uses to check the inner lining of your rectum and the lower part of your colon. You may get this test if you have certain gut problems, such as abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or changes in bowel habits. It's also one of the tools that doctors use to check people for colon and rectal cancer. A sigmoidoscope is a long, flexible tube that's about half an inch in diameter. It has a tiny light and camera. A doctor uses it to view the lining of the rectum and the lower third of the colon. First, tell your doctor if you: Are pregnant Have a lung or heart condition Are allergic to any medications Have diabetes or take drugs that may affect blood clotting If you take certain medicines, your doctor may need to adjust them before you get this test. You may need to take antibiotics before the sigmoidoscopy if you: Have an artificial heart valve Have a history of endocarditis No. But your bowel must be cleansed in order for sigmoidoscopy to be successful. Your doctor will tell you how to do that and whether you need to adjust your diet before the test. You will probably need at least one enema before the procedure, in order to empty out your rectum and lower intestine so that the test can show the intestinal walls. Be sure to follow all of the prep instructions, so that the test can deliver the best results. A flexible sigmoidoscopy usually lasts from 10 to 20 minutes. You may not need to be sedated. Your doctor will have you lie on your left side, with your knees drawn up. He will insert the sigmoidoscope through the rectum and pass it into your sigmoid colon. The doctor will use a small amount of air to expand the colon to see the colon walls. You may feel mild cramping during the procedure. To lessen those cramps, you can take several slow, deep breaths. The doctor will slowly take the sigmoidoscope out while carefully examining the lining of your bowel. After the procedure, your doctor will talk with you about the results. You may go back to your normal diet and activities. If the doctor found any growths, or polyps, during the procedure, you may get a biopsy (removal of tissue) of the polyp or polyps. Or your doctor may recommend that you get a complete colon exam, by colonoscopy with polyp removal. You may feel some cramping or feel like you're having gas, but this usually passes quickly. It's rare, but it's possible that sigmoidoscopy could puncture the colon. If you have any of the following, call your doctor immediately: Severe abdominal pain Fever and chills Heavy rectal bleeding (greater than 1 teaspoon at a time)
context: Most commonly known as gestational DI, gestagenic diabetes insipidus is a rare disorder that happens in pregnancy, usually in the third trimester. This condition can make you so thirsty you drink many glasses of water a day. As a result, you might go to the bathroom more than once or twice an hour. This isn't a result of pregnancy but of diabetes insipidus, which is sometimes called "water" diabetes. It has symptoms like other forms of the disease, but isn't related. It's rare, but sometimes during pregnancy, the placenta can make an enzyme that destroys vasopressin, a hormone that controls how much water you retain. The lack of it causes heavy thirst and frequent urination. Gestagenic DI can also lead to lack of control when you pee and to bedwetting. In some cases, the disease runs in the family. In others, it's a problem with the way your body controls thirst. And sometimes the cause isn't known. Most pregnant women make many trips to the bathroom at night due to pressure the growing baby puts on the bladder. But if you go a lot and have an intense thirst, it could be gestagenic diabetes. Other symptoms include nausea, dizziness, and weakness. Your doctor will test your urine to see if it's light and diluted or concentrated and yellow. He may also send your blood out for lab tests. The doctor may opt not to treat gestagenic DI. If that's the case, he'll likely ask you to come to the office a lot. He'll make sure your body doesn't retain too much fluid. You'll also need to keep liquids with you so you don't get dehydrated. You may need to take desmopressin, a man-made form of vasopressin. It usually comes as a nasal spray. This treatment helps control urine. It also stops bedwetting by letting your body to absorb and manage water from your kidneys. If your body's thirst control is the cause of gestational DI, your doctor will prescribe other treatments. See your doctor if you're pregnant and have all of these symptoms: You make frequent trips to the bathroom, especially at night. You have a heavy thirst. You drink much more than your normal daily amount. Most cases go away 4 to 6 weeks after you give birth. But it may return with future pregnancies.
context: If you're like 75% of women, you'll get at least one yeast infection during your lifetime. Half will get two or more. You're more likely to get one when you: Are pregnant Have diabetes Have a weakened immune system Take antibiotics Use birth control with high doses of the hormone estrogen Use douches or vaginal sprays It may not be possible for all women to prevent yeast infections, but here's what you can do to lower your odds. Wear breathable underwear. Cotton is your best choice. It doesn't hold onto heat or moisture. It will help keep you dry. Keep things loose. Make sure your jeans, skirts, underwear, yoga pants, tights, pantyhose, etc. aren't too snug. They can boost your body temperature and increase the amount of moisture around your private parts. That raises your chances for a yeast infection. Don't douche. â Feminine hygiene productsâ like douches can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your vagina by removing some of the good bacteria that's supposed to be there to fight off infections. Skip the scent in feminine products. This includes bubble baths, soaps, sprays, tampons, and pads. Avoid hot tubs and extra hot baths. Hot and damp are never your friends. Change out of wet clothes. Don't sit in a wet bathing suit after you go swimming or damp workout gear after the gym. Change into dry clothes right away. In the ba throom, always wipe from front to back. When on your period, change your tampons, pads, and panty liners often. Manage your diabetes. If you have it, be sure to keep an eye on your blood sugar levels and keep them under control. Use antibiotics only when you have to. You don't need them for conditions like a cold, because they don't do anything against a virus. If you don't have to, don't take them.
context: The most common symptoms of all types of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis -- also called JRA or juvenile idiopathic arthritis ( JIA) -- are persistent joint swelling, pain, and stiffness that typically is worse in the morning or after a nap. Other symptoms can include: Fever that comes and goes Less appetite Weight loss Anemia Blotchy rash on a child's arms and legs The pain may limit movement of the affected joint. Many children, especially younger ones, don't complain of pain. JRA commonly affects the knees and joints in the hands and feet. One of the earliest warning signs of the disease is limping in the morning because of a stiff knee. Besides joint symptoms, children with a form of the condition called âsystemic JRAâ have a high fever and a light skin rash. The rash and fever may appear and disappear quickly. Systemic JRA may cause the lymph nodes in the neck and other parts of the body to swell. In less than half of cases, internal organs including the heart and, very rarely, the lungs, may be involved. Eye inflammation is a potentially severe complication that sometimes happens in children with another type of JRA called âpauciarticular JRA.â Eye diseases such as iritis and uveitis usually don't happen for a while after a child first gets JRA. Typically, there are periods when the symptoms of JRA are better or disappear ("remissions") and times when symptoms are worse ("flare-ups"). The condition is different in each child. Some may have just one or two flare-ups and never have symptoms again. Others get many flare-ups or have symptoms that never go away. Some children with JRA may have growth problems. Depending on the severity of the disease and the joints involved, growth in affected joints may be too fast or too slow. That may make one leg or arm longer than the other. A child's height may be affected and their overall growth could be slower than normal. Doctors are exploring the use of growth hormones to treat this problem.
context: Nursemaid's Elbow, or "pulled elbow," occurs in small children as a result of being lifted, yanked, swung by the hand or wrist, or falling on an outstretched arm. One of the arm bones slips out of place slightly. The child may: Complain that the elbow hurts Cry when the arm is moved or touched Hold the arm close to his or her side or support it with the other arm. Not use the arm The health care provider may see the child or refer you to a hospital emergency room. Do not try to put the bone back in place. If several hours or days pass before treatment, a sling, splint, or cast may be applied.ee a health care provider even if the bone seems to move back into place on its own. The health care provider will examine the elbow and may take an X-ray. The health care provider may do a gentle movement that lets the bone move back into place. The movement can hurt but will be very quick. Anesthesia or sedation are not required. The child will feel much better 5-10 minutes after the bone moves back into place. If your doctor is unable to put the elbow bone back into place, an orthopedic specialist will be called.
context: If no underlying medical condition is causing your child's bed-wetting, there is no real medical need to treat him. Bed-wetting tends to go away by itself. However, if after talking to your child's doctor you decide to treat your child with medications, several drug therapies are available. The two drugs approved by the FDA specifically for bed-wetting are DDAVP and Tofranil. Other medications that are sometimes used to treat bed-wetting include Ditropan and Levsin. Drug therapy does not work for everyone, and these medications can have significant side effects. Talk to your child's doctor to determine if drug therapy is right for your child. Here's an overview of each drug used to treat bed-wetting: DDAVP DDAVP is a synthetic form of antidiuretic hormone ( ADH), a substance that occurs naturally in the body. This drug works by imitating ADH in the body, which reduces the amount of urine that the body produces and also increases the concentration of the urine. Its main use is for children who have not been helped by an alarm. It is also used as a stopgap measure to help children attend camps or sleepovers without embarrassment. It is an FDA-approved treatment for bed-wetting. DDAVP comes as a nasal spray or pill and is taken before bedtime. The dose is adjusted until effective. Once it is working, the dose is tapered, if possible. Side effects of DDAVP are uncommon but may include: Headache Runny nose Nasal stuffiness Nosebleeds Tofranil Tofranil is a tricyclic antidepressant that has been used to treat bed-wetting for about 30 years. How it works is not clear, but it is known to have a relaxing effect on the bladder, allowing the bladder to hold more urine comfortably. Side effects of Tofranil tend to be rare with correct dosage but may include: Nervousness Anxiety Constipation Personality changes A warning: Tofranil can have toxic side effects if taken improperly. Deaths have been attributed to accidental overdoses. Ditropan and Levsin Ditropan and Levsin work by reducing unwanted bladder contractions. Side effects may include: Dry mouth Drowsiness Flushing Heat sensitivity Constipation
context: Certain back pain symptoms mean you should call your doctor ASAP. Among them: * Back trauma from a bad fall or car accident. You could have a fracture. * New or progressive motor weakness, sometimes with numbness or tingling. This could be spinal cord compression. * Loss of bowel or bladder function. This might point to cauda equina syndrome. The nerve roots in the lower end of the spinal cord become compressed and paralysis of the legs can sometimes occur. * Pain for 6 weeks or more. Other red flags indicating that your back pain should be evaluated immediately include: * History of cancer or unexplained weight loss * History of immune system problems * Fever All is fine during the day, but as soon as your head hits the pillow your back starts to hurt, making sleep near impossible. Sound like you? Pain that wakes you up in the middle of the night can be the sign of disc degeneration or a sprain, or something more serious like a tumor, say experts. Bottom line: Nighttime back pain shouldn't be ignored. Call your doctor right away.
context: Has your child's teacher let you know that they think your child has ADHD? Teachers are often the first ones to recognize or suspect ADHD in children. That's because ADHD symptoms typically affect school performance or disrupt the rest of the class. Also, teachers are with children for most of the day and for months out of the year. Since teachers work with many different children, they also come to know how students typically behave in classroom situations requiring concentration and self-control. So when they notice something outside the norm, they may speak with the school psychologist or the parents about their concerns. But teachers can't diagnose ADHD. They can tell you what they've noticed, but after that, you would need to get a professional to evaluate your child to see if they have ADHD or if something else is going on. There is no one test for ADHD. Instead, the ADHD diagnosis is based on observations of a child's behavior in multiple settings. The teacher, sometimes past teachers, will play a key role in the process. The professional who makes the diagnosis is usually a specially trained doctor (apsychiatrist or pediatrician), psychologist, counselor, or social worker. They will ask you and your child's teachers to rate their observations of your child's behavior on standardized evaluation or rating scales. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD, you'll need to work closely with your child's school. The school nurse may play a role in dispensing ADHD medications and monitoring for side effects. Your child's teacher will be important in carrying out the behavioral part of a treatment plan and in communicating about the effectiveness of medications. As a parent, you'll need to keep open the lines of communication with the teacher to ensure a consistent system of incentives and discipline between school and home. For example, a younger child's teacher may make a checklist and reward the child with a star or smiley face each time he or she completes a certain number of items on the list. You may have a similar system at home or provide a bigger reward -- such as a special dinner, a family movie night, or an extra hour of TV or computer time -- when your child gets a certain number of stars or smiley faces. Your child's teacher can be a good supporter and resource, but you may want more help dealing with the challenges and emotions of parenting a child with ADHD, or with concerns about medications or other issues. Read and learn as much as you can about ADHD and its treatment. Other resources include your child's doctor or other professional who diagnosed ADHD, and other parents of children with ADHD. A national nonprofit organization called Children and Adults with Attention- Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder ( CHADD) also has resources, including support groups for families. The organization's web site lists support groups in your area, and gives information on how to start a group.
context: A thorough medical exam will tell whether you have a hammertoe. Usually, an X-ray is part of this exam to assess the extent of the deformity. A hammertoe occurs from a muscle and ligament imbalance around the toe joint that causes the middle toe joint to bend and become stuck in this position. The most common complaint with hammertoes is rubbing and irritation on the top of the bent toe. You should see a doctor if you have a hammertoe. In the meantime, there are steps you can take to relieve the pain and discomfort: Wear only shoes that are high and broad across the toes, called a wide toe-box shoe. There should be at least one-half inch of space between your longest toe and the tip of the shoe. Keep in mind that this could be either a big toe or second toe. Don't wear heels higher than 2 inches. Wear the appropriate shoe for the activity you are doing. You can buy non-medicated hammertoe pads. They fit around the pointy top of the toe joint and help relieve painful pressure. Some brands have a gel lining that can prevent irritation of the toe by the shoe. Gently massaging the toe may help relieve pain. Put ice packs on the hammertoe to reduce painful swelling. There are several treatment options that vary according to how severe the hammertoe: Wear good-fitting shoes; this does not necessarily mean expensive shoes. Padding any prominent areas around the bony point of the toe may help to relieve pain. Drugs that reduce inflammation can ease the pain and swelling. Sometimes, a doctor will use cortisone injections to relieve acute pain. An orthotist or qualified medical provider such as a podiatrist may also custom-make an insert to wear inside your shoe. This can reduce pain and keep the hammertoe from getting worse. Over-the-counter metatarsal pads that are properly placed may help. The doctor may recommend foot exercises to help restore muscle balance. Splinting the toe may help in the very early stages. When the hammertoes are not resolved with the above methods, surgery may be needed. Often this can be done in a surgery center without the need for hospitalization. There are several surgical techniques used to treat hammertoes. When the problem is less severe, the doctor will remove a small piece of bone at the involved joint and realign the toe joint. More severe hammertoes may mean more complicated surgery.
context: A person who has low blood sugar not related to diabetes loses consciousness. Give the person a high-sugar food such as: ½ cup fruit juice ½ cup regular (non diet) soda pop 3 glucose tablets Then follow with a more substantial food like a sandwich that offers protein, fat, and complex carbohydrates. If non-diabetic hypoglycemia is recurrent, see a health care provider. The health care provider will do tests to help determine the cause.
context: Your doctor will know if you've had this severe allergic reaction is by its symptoms. He'll also ask about your exposure to things known to cause allergies, also known as triggers. The symptoms include: Swelling of your lips or tongue Trouble breathing Hives Swelling or tightness in your throat Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea Dizziness or fainting Fast heartbeat Low blood pressure Stomach pain It's hard to know if you're in line for a severe allergic reaction before it happens. But if you have any history of allergic reactions -- mild, moderate, or severe -- it's more likely you'll have a severe reaction in the future. Your doctor will use a series of tests to check how you react to things that cause allergies. Some tests just examine your blood, but others involve exposing you to a bit of the stuff that might cause your allergy: Skin prick or scratch testing: The doctor places a small drop of allergen on your skin and scratches but doesn't break the skin's surface. Intradermal, or percutaneous testing: The allergens go under your skin and the doctor watches for signs of an allergic reaction. Epinephrine is the main treatment. Inhalers and antihistamines won't work. Epinephrine reverses the more serious problems with breathing (wheezing and shortness of breath and the dangerous drop in blood pressure seen in anaphylaxis). The faster it is given, the better. If you're allergic to insect stings or any of the foods that cause anaphylaxis, or if you ever have had an anaphylactic reaction, ask your doctor to prescribe an epinephrine injection kit. Carry two injections at all times, and know how to use them. Make sure your family members, friends, and colleagues know the signs of anaphylaxis and can give you an injection if they need to. Don't hesitate to use it if you start to show any symptoms of anaphylaxis. It won't hurt you to take the shot as a precaution. If someone looks like they're having an anaphylactic reaction, call for emergency help, even if they've taken epinephrine. They might need more doses or other medical treatment. Anyone who has this type of response should be checked by medical personnel. After getting epinephrine, steroid drugs (like prednisone or methylprednisolone) and antihistamines can also help calm the reaction and prevent the return of symptoms. If the person stops breathing, perform CPR right away, if you know how. Continue CPR until the person begins to breathe again or emergency responders take over. Certain medicines, like beta-blockers for high blood pressure and ACE inhibitors for heart disease can make it harder to treat an anaphylactic reaction. If you've have had a severe allergic reaction and are taking either of these drugs, ask your doctor if you should change your medication.
context: It lasts just a few seconds, but it can be startling: An intense burst of pain like an electric shock that runs down your back into your arms and legs when you move your neck. It's called Lhermitte's sign, or barber chair sign, and it's often one of the symptoms that people mention when they're first diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. The problem can be painful, but it's not life-threatening. With time or with treatment, some people stop having Lhermitte's sign. When you have MS, your immune system begins to attack the fatty coating, called myelin, that protects your nerves. Without it, scar tissue forms and begins to block the messages traveling in your brain and spinal cord. Lhermitte's sign is one of the symptoms that happens when those signals don't move like they should. MS is not the only condition that can cause Lhermitte's. It can also happen to people with other disorders involving the upper part of the spinal cord, and to people with a severe lack of vitamin B12. Your doctor will want to test you to see if MS or another health problem is causing your symptoms. Like a lot of MS symptoms, you're more likely to trigger Lhermitte's sign if you're tired or overheated. It can also happen if you move your head the wrong way, often when your chin hits your chest. Your doctor may prescribe a few treatments to help relieve your pain: Electrical stimulating devices. These machines ease pain by sending low-voltage electricity to your nerves. Some work from outside your body, such as TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation). Others your doctor can implant inside you. A soft neck brace or collar to limit movement Massage and muscle relaxation techniques Deep breathing Stretching There are also medications that can combat Lhermitte's sign: Antiseizure drugs Muscle relaxers Antidepressants Sodium channel blockers Steroids Talk to your health care team about the mix of treatments that will help you the most.