VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: Stress and psoriasis seem to go together. Stress can make psoriasis worse, and psoriasis can make you stressed. But there are ways to ease stress that may help your psoriasis, too. Learn techniques to relax. Try one of these stress-busters: Deep breathing Meditation Tai chi Yoga They can lower stress and may even help your treatment. One study found that people who listened to meditation tapes while they got light therapy did twice as well as those who only got light therapy. Long walks and long baths are also good ways to ease stress. Get a massage. A good massage can: Ease muscle tension Lower stress Help you relax If you can, find a massage therapist who has worked with people who have psoriasis. Trust your doctor. To ease stress, you need to have faith in your doctor to work out the best plan for your treatment. You are partners. If you don't feel like you are, or if you have doubts about your treatment plan, see another doctor. Get professional help. If you find stress and psoriasis hard to handle -- or feel very anxious or depressed -- see a mental health therapist. A therapist can help you manage some of the hard emotional issues that stem from life with psoriasis. A therapist can also teach you useful ways to calm stress. Get better treatment. Psoriasis treatment itself can sometimes be stressful. But it can also be the best cure for both your stress and psoriasis. If you have good control of your condition, you get rid of the core cause of your stress. Experts aren't sure how psoriasis and stress are linked. It may have to do with an effect on the immune system. Some people have their first flare of psoriasis during a very stressful time in their life. So what aspects of psoriasis may cause stress? Stigma. Living with psoriasis can make you self-conscious and ashamed. Any aspect of being social can be stressful, from going on a date to shaking someone's hand. Finances. Psoriasis treatments can be costly. A year's supply of biologic drugs can cost more than $25,000. And even cheaper treatments add up. Pain. Psoriasis can cause chronic pain, which adds a constant level of stress in your life. Sometimes the pain can make day-to-day actions hard. If you have arthritis in your joints, this is more likely. Treatment. Some treatments don't work, which can lead to stress. Other treatments can take up a lot of your time. For instance, you might need to get light therapy 3 times a week for up to a year. Fitting that into your schedule can be tricky. And drug side effects can also be a strain. Life with a chronic condition. Sometimes psoriasis can wear you down. You may also sometimes find yourself anxious about the future.
context: With time, chronic hives (your doctor may call them chronic idiopathic urticaria, or CIU) usually go away on their own. There's no medication to cure them, but treatments can help ease your pain and discomfort. Talk to your doctor about these options: These medications block something called histamine. That's a chemical in the skin that can cause allergy symptoms like hives. The meds come in different forms: Non-drowsy: Your doctor will probably want you to try over-the-counter options like cetirizine ( Zyrtec), fexofenadine ( Allegra), and loratadine ( Claritin) first. They won't make you sleepy. They usually only cause mild side effects, like dry mouth and eyes. It's important to take these every day, not just when you have a breakout. Nighttime: If your hives are severe, your doctor may point you toward diphenhydramine ( Benadryl) or a similar medicine. Because it can make you drowsy, your doctor will probably tell you to take it at night. H2 blockers: You may be told to take more than one type of antihistamine at a time for your hives. Medicines like famotidine ( Pepcid) or ranitidine ( Zantac) can be used together with other treatments. These drugs also ease heartburn. For your hives, they narrow blood vessels. That calms redness. These may cause side effects like diarrhea, dizziness, and headaches. If antihistamines don't help, your doctor might prescribe a corticosteroid. These drugs calm the immune system. That can make your hives less severe. You can get them in a shot or a pill. They can cause side effects like: High blood pressure Weight gain Sleep problems Bone density problems Blurred vision The need to pee a lot Increased thirst Fluid retention Psychological effects Because of the chance of these side effects, doctors usually give them at low doses and only for short periods of time. If you take these for a while, you could have other side effects, including: Cataracts High blood sugar Higher risk of infection Osteoporosis (thinning bones) Bruising Chronic hives can be difficult to treat. If there's an underlying cause like a thyroid issue, taking care of that may ease the hives. Often, though, the cause of your reaction can't be found. When antihistamines and steroids don't work, there are a few more treatments that your doctor might suggest. Asthma medications like montelukast ( Singulair) or zafirlukast ( Accolate) can help hives, including those made worse by aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDs). These medications can have side effects, so check with your doctor. Omalizumab ( Xolair) is approved for those who don't get relief from antihistamines. Your doctor injects it under your skin. Experts think it blocks a different chemical in your immune system that contributes to hives. Side effects of this medication include: Headache Upset stomach A slightly higher chance of heart disease or a stroke Rarely, a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis If those drugs don't work, your doctor may try anti-inflammatory medications or something called an immunosuppressant, which curbs your immune system. Together, you and your doctor can decide the best treatment plan for your chronic hives.
context: It is not surprising that many people with multiple sclerosis report a decline in sexual desire. What with the fatigue, muscle spasms, and bladder control problems, who would want to think about sex? But, there are steps that can be taken to improve sexual function and intimacy, despite MS. Changes in sexual function can occur as a result of the neurologic and psychological affects of multiple sclerosis. Sexual arousal begins in the central nervous system, as the brain sends messages to the sexual organs along the nerve pathway in the spinal cord. MS-related changes to these nerve pathways can directly or indirectly impair sexual functioning. For example, the following symptoms can occur as a direct result of myelin breakdown in the spinal cord or brain: Decreased sex drive Altered genital sensations (numbness, pain, increased sensitivity) Difficulty or inability to maintain erection Decreased vaginal lubrication Decreased vaginal muscle tone Ejaculation difficulty Problems having an orgasm The following symptoms can arise as a consequence of MS physical changes or treatments and affect sexual intimacy: Fatigue Spasticity Sensory changes Pain A loss of interest in sexual contact or intimacy may arise as a result of psychological or social issues associated with multiple sclerosis, such as: Depression Performance anxiety Changes in self-image or body image as a result of disability Talk to your partner about your sexual issues and multiple sclerosis. The most important way of dealing with sexual difficulties is to discuss your feelings with your loved one. When MS begins affecting your sexual desire, talk to your partner. Confiding in your partner deepens intimacy and may help resolve concerns relating to sexual intimacy.
context: When you're in your 40s and 50s, it's time to start giving some thought to the kinds of screening tests you need, what menopause will mean for you, and what nutrition is best. Check out these tips for managing your health. Talk to your doctor about possible changes. For example, if you take the pill, as you get older you may want to think about a switch to a low dose oral contraceptive, an IUD, estrogen patch, or other methods. That's because some birth control pills may raise some women's risk of heart disease and blood clots. Oral contraception should be avoided altogether in obese perimenopausal women, as the risk of venous thromboembolism increases with both age and BMI. Symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. Talk to your doctor before symptoms of menopause kick in. Discuss what you might want to do to ease any discomfort. Short-term hormone replacement therapy ( HRT) may be a choice for you if you have moderate to severe effects from menopause and you're at low risk for breast cancer, heart disease, strokes, and blood clots. If you haven't already started to watch your bone health, do it now. As you move into menopause, it's an important time for you to prevent osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones. Your lifestyle plays an important role. Measures you can take to reduce bone loss include: adequate calcium and vitamin D in your diet, exercise, smoking cessation, fall prevention, and avoidance of heavy alcohol use. If you don't get enough dairy in your diet, talk to your doctor about taking a supplement with calcium and vitamin D. Vitamin D is the key that unlocks the calcium in your body so it can use it. Ask your doctor whether you should have a bone density scan to check for early osteoporosis. If you're under 65, but past menopause, you may need one if you're at risk for the condition because you've had a fracture, take steroid medicines, smoke, have a low weight, drink a lot of alcohol, have rheumatoid arthritis, or have a parent who's had hip fractures. Make sure you get regular mammograms to check for breast cancer. Talk to your doctor about when you should start and how often to get them, because experts disagree. Also ask about when to get diabetes tests and screening for colorectal cancer. Thyroid disease is common in older women, so ask your doctor whether you should consider a screening test for it. Also make sure to get tests to check for cervical cancer. When you're 30 to 65, you should get a Pap test every 3 years. Or, if you prefer, every 5 years you can get a Pap test along with an HPV test. That other test is useful because most cervical cancers are caused by an infection with HPV (human papillomavirus). Make sure you get a flu vaccine every year. It's also recommended that you get a pneumonia vaccine if you're at medium risk for the disease because you smoke, have long-term heart or lung disease, diabetes, are a heavy drinker, or have long-term liver disease. If you're over 50, ask your doctor about getting a vaccine to prevent shingles.
context: The older you get, the more likely it is you'll get rotator cuff tendinopathy, or tendinosis. This type of shoulder pain is more common if you're over age 30. If not treated, it can lead to stiffness or weakness in your shoulder. Most of the time, it's easily treated. Each of your shoulders is made up by a group of muscles and tendons called a rotator cuff. This keeps your upper arm inside your shoulder socket. It also gives you the strength and motion to rotate and lift your arms. If the tendons in your rotator cuff are swollen or damaged, you could have rotator cuff tendinitis. This can happen because of an injury to your shoulder. You might fall on your outstretched arm. Or it could be from repeated motions in sports or on the job, especially if your work involves heavy lifting or a lot of reaching over your head. People older than age 40 are most likely to have rotator cuff problems, in general. Genes may also play a part. If someone else in your family has shoulder issues, then you may be prone to get them, too. If you have rotator cuff tendinopathy, you will notice pain in the outer part of your upper arm, as well as the front and top of your shoulder. This could be worse when you raise your hands above your head or reach behind you. It could also wake you up at night. You also might notice: Swelling and tenderness in the front of your shoulder â Clickingâ in your shoulder when you raise your arms over your head Loss of strength or range of motion Many different things can cause shoulder pain. It could be a pinched nerve or arthritis. To find out for sure, you'll need to see your doctor. He'll ask about your symptoms and take a look at your shoulder. He'll test your arm strength and ask you to move your arm in different ways so he can check your range of motion. An imaging test like an ultrasound or MRI can help, too. These will let your doctor see any swelling or tearing of your tendons. Many times, rotator cuff tendinitis can be treated at home if the injury was sudden. Treatments include: Over-the-counter medicine. Anti-inflammatory pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen can help ease your shoulder ache. Rest. You'll need to stop any physical activity that causes or adds to your shoulder pain. Ice. A cold pack can help reduce swelling and pain. Use for 15 to 20 minutes every few hours. Heat. Once your pain starts to go away, you can use a heating pad to lessen any stiffness in your shoulder. Stretching. Your doctor can give you daily exercises to do at home to get your shoulder more flexible. Doing these in a hot shower may help. Usually, a rotator cuff can heal in 2 to 4 weeks. But if your tendinitis is severe, it could take months. If the pain is getting in the way of your daily life or you injure yourself again, your doctor might suggest: Steroids. A shot injected in your shoulder joint can help with the soreness. Physical therapy. Your trainer can guide you through exercises to help you regain strength and motion in your shoulder. Surgery. This is rare. Unless you're young and had an acute, traumatic shoulder injury, surgery is a last resort for rotator cuff tears.
context: Knowing the signs of a stroke is the first step in stroke prevention. A stroke, sometimes called a "brain attack," occurs when blood flow to an area in the brain is cut off. The brain cells, deprived of the oxygen and glucose needed to survive, die. If not caught early, permanent brain damage can result. There are two types of stroke. Ischemic strokeis similar to a heart attack, except it occurs in the blood vessels of the brain. Clots can form either in the brain's blood vessels, in blood vessels leading to the brain, or even blood vessels elsewhere in the body which then travel to the brain. These clots block blood flow to the brain's cells. Ischemic stroke can also occur when too much plaque (fatty deposits and cholesterol) clogs the brain's blood vessels. About 80% of all strokes are of this nature. Hemorrhagic (heh-more-raj-ik) strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain breaks or ruptures. The result is blood seeping into the brain tissue, causing damage to brain cells. The most common causes of hemorrhagic stroke are high blood pressure and brain aneurysms. An aneurysm is a weakness or thinness in the blood vessel wall. The most common symptoms of a stroke are: Weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body. Loss of vision or dimming (like a curtain falling) in one or both eyes. Loss of speech, difficulty talking or understanding what others are saying. Sudden, severe headache with no known cause. Loss of balance or unstable walking, usually combined with another symptom. Immediately call 911 if you or someone you know shows the symptoms of a stroke. Stroke is a medical emergency. Immediate treatment can save your life or increase the chances of a full recovery. Up to 50% of all strokes are preventable. Many risk factors for stroke can be controlled before they cause problems. Controllable Risk Factors for Stroke: High blood pressure Atrial fibrillation Uncontrolled diabetes High cholesterol Smoking Excessive alcohol intake Being overweight Existing carotid and/or coronary artery disease Uncontrollable Risk Factors for Stroke: Age (65 and over) Gender ( Men have more strokes, women have deadlier strokes) Race ( African- Americans are at increased risk) Family history of stroke Your doctor can evaluate your risk for stroke and help you control risk factors. Sometimes, people experience warning signs before a stroke occurs. These are called transient ischemic attacks (also called TIA or "mini-stroke") and are short, brief episodes of the stroke symptoms listed above. These can also been warning signs of an impending major stroke. Anyone with a TIA needs to be taken to the emergency room. However, some people have no symptoms warning them prior to a stroke or symptoms are so mild they are not noticeable. Regular check-ups are important in catching problems before they become serious. Report any symptoms or risk factors to your doctor. Younger people can get strokes, too. If you think you are having a stroke, the most important step is to call 9-1-1.
context: There have been some studies of alternative treatments for epilepsy -- including biofeedback, melatonin, or large doses of vitamins: Biofeedback Biofeedback is a method of using relaxation or imagery to change body functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. A biofeedback practitioner measures these functions with electrodes and a monitor. The practitioner describes a stressful situation and then teaches the patient various relaxation techniques. The patient can see on the monitor the differences between stressed and relaxed situations. He or she can then use the relaxation techniques to feel more relaxed and control these body functions. Biofeedback has been shown to help people with high blood pressure, migraine headaches, and pain. Researchers have investigated whether biofeedback can help control seizures, but the results have not been encouraging. However, patients who have problems with anxiety or dealing with stressful situations may benefit from this therapy, in addition to their seizure medications. Melatonin Melatonin is a hormone that is manufactured by the pineal gland in the brain. Melatonin has been touted as an anti-aging substance, as a sleep aid, and as an antioxidant (a substance that protects against free radicals -- molecules that can damage the body). Studies into these claims have not been conclusive. As for epilepsy, one study showed that melatonin may reduce the incidence of seizures in children, while another study found that melatonin increased the risk of seizures. At this time, it is believed that melatonin does not significantly help prevent seizures. Vitamins Although vitamins are necessary for good health, large doses of vitamins do not improve the symptoms of epilepsy and may even be harmful. You should get most of your vitamins from food by eating a balanced diet. If necessary, vitamin supplements such as folic acid can help deal with vitamin loss caused by medication. People with epilepsy taking seizure medications do appear to have an increased need for calcium and vitamin D to help keep their bones healthy. However, you should first check with your doctor before taking vitamins or supplements. Pregnant women also need sufficient folic acid to help prevent birth defects.
context: Bronchitis makes you cough -- a lot. It can make it hard to breathe, too, and can cause wheezing, fever, tiredness, and chest pain. The disease happens when the lining of the airways in your lungs gets irritated and inflamed. It can be. There are two kinds of bronchitis: Chronic, which isn't contagious but means your airways are inflamed for a long time with symptoms that last at least 3 months and recurring over 2 years. Chronic bronchitis is a serious lung disease that is one type of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease). Acute, which can last for 1 to 3 weeks. It's usually caused by cold or flu viruses. Since these viruses are contagious, acute bronchitis usually is, too. The first few days you're sick, it will probably be hard to tell if you have a âregularâ cold or bronchitis. But if you keep coughing for a week or longer, even after your other symptoms are gone, you might have bronchitis. It depends on the type of virus that you have. In most cases, you'll be contagious for a few days, and possibly as long as a week. Since you may not know what kind of illness you have -- and doctors don't test for individual viruses, since there are hundreds of them -- it's best to assume you could spread the disease while you have cold symptoms. You get acute bronchitis the same way you get cold and flu viruses: by getting a virus inside your body, usually by breathing it in or passing it from your hands to your mouth, nose, or eyes. Viruses get into the air and onto surfaces after someone who is sick coughs, blows their nose, sneezes, or sometimes even just breathes. To keep from getting bronchitis, try not to be in close contact with people who have cold or flu-like symptoms. Wash your hands regularly, and don't touch your eyes, mouth, or nose. The flu can cause bronchitis. That's why it's smart to get your flu shot every year. If you have bronchitis, cover your mouth and nose when you sneeze and cough, and wash your hands often to avoid getting someone else sick. Make an appointment if: Your cough does not improve after 10 days. You're really uncomfortable or are coughing so hard that you can't sleep. You have chest pain with coughing or difficulty breathing. Your cough is accompanied by unexplained weight loss. You have a fever over 100.4 F. You're wheezing or feel like you can't breathe. There's blood in the mucus you cough up, or you have other symptoms that seem unusual for a cold.
context: If your hepatitis C makes you feel tired, you've got ways to fight back. Try these tips to keep fatigue from putting the brakes on the activities you love. Pace yourself. You may have days when you feel fine and others when you're just too tired to do things you normally do. Listen to your body and give yourself some downtime when you need it. Don't drink. Alcohol is not only a danger to your liver -- it also makes you tired. Eat smaller meals, more often. Instead of larger breakfasts, lunches, and dinners, this dining style gives your body and brain a regular supply of fuel. Make sure to keep it healthy, with lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fatty, fried, and processed foods zap your energy. Exercise. It sounds hard when you're already tired, but moving around actually gives you energy. It boosts your mood, too. If your doctor gives you the green light, start with a 10-minute walk, and build up to 30 minutes of moderate activity on most days of the week. Manage stress. Try yoga, meditation, or other relaxation techniques on a regular basis. Or simply make time for things you enjoy. Get enough rest. You might find your hep C medicine makes it hard to sleep. Try these tips to get better shut-eye: Don't watch TV (or text or read) in bed. Go to sleep and get up at the same time every day. Keep your bedroom cool and quiet. Don't drink caffeine late in the day. If you still can't sleep, talk to your doctor. Sleeping pills may give you some short-term help. Studies disagree about whether the hepatitis C virus itself causes fatigue. But two things are clear. If you have scarring of the liver, called cirrhosis, you're more likely to get tired. And taking interferon, sometimes a part of treatment, can rob you of energy. But if you go through treatment and get cured, your fatigue will get better. If you're having trouble with daily activities because you're too tired, talk to your doctor about your medication options. You might be able to take newer drugs instead of interferon to wipe out the virus more quickly, so you don't have to deal with side effects for so long. Anyone with a long-lasting illness can get depressed. Hepatitis C is no different. You may be angry, anxious, or sad about your health or the changes you've had to make in your life. Your doctor can help. Tell him how you're feeling. He may prescribe an antidepressant. He can also help you find a therapist or support group, where you can talk to others who are facing the same problems as you.
context: Some people have strokes without realizing it. They're called silent strokes, and they either have no easy-to-recognize symptoms, or you don't remember them. But they do cause permanent damage in your brain. 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(); }); } If you've had more than one silent stroke, you may have thinking and memory problems. They can also lead to more severe strokes. If you have a silent stroke, you probably won't know it unless you happen to have a brain scan and the damage shows up. You may have slight memory problems or a little difficulty getting around. A doctor may be able to see signs of silent strokes without testing. A study of middle-aged people with no apparent signs of stroke found that about 10% had brain damage from one. The damage that happens is permanent, but therapy might help stimulate other parts of the brain so you regain abilities that may have weakened. Your chances of getting a stroke go up if you have high blood pressure or irregular heartbeat. Changes to the way you live can help lower your odds of stroke and heart disease. Make a plan to adopt these healthy habits: Keep tabs on your blood pressure, and get it under control if it's too high. Check your cholesterol. Keep your blood sugar at the right levels. If you smoke, quit. Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Cut back on saturated fats (found in red meat, for example), salt, and sugar. Get regular exercise. Keep to a healthy weight.
context: It can be a challenge to avoid wheat because it's in so many things. The first step is to know where you're likely to find wheat and what you can substitute for it. Foods with wheat protein include: Bran Bread crumbs Bulgur Couscous Durum, durum flour, and durum wheat Einkorn Farina Farro (also known as emmer) Kamut Semolina Sprouted wheat Triticale Wheat (bran, germ, gluten, grass, malt, starch) Wheat berries Wheat flour (all types, including all-purpose, cake, enriched, graham, high protein or high gluten, and pastry) If you see any of these listed on a label, the food may have wheat in it: Gelatinized starch Gluten or vital gluten Hydrolyzed vegetable protein Natural flavoring Starch, modified starch, modified food starch Vegetable gum or starch You may be allergic to some other grains, too. Gluten, one of the wheat proteins that can cause a reaction, is also in barley, rye, and oats. Your doctor can let you know if they are safe for you to eat. Try rice flour, potato starch flour, corn flour, or soy flour instead. Check online to see what flours work well as substitutes. Experiment to find the one that gives you the best texture. Wreaths and garlands may include wheat or wheat products as decorations. Some children's play dough also has wheat in it. Other non-food items such as shampoos and conditioners, lotions, and cosmetics may, too. You're not going to eat them, obviously, but ask your doctor if you need to avoid touching them.
context: When doctors talk about the âstageâ of your disease, that's based on how far it has spread through the walls of the colon or rectum and whether it's now in other parts of the body, too. Your doctor will consider your cancer's stage when she recommends what treatments are best for you. The stage also helps your cancer care team to know if your cancer gets better with treatment. This is the earliest stage. The cancer is found only in the innermost lining of the colon. Learn about treatments for stage 0 colon cancer. The cancer has spread beyond the innermost lining of the colon to the second and third layers and involves the colon's inside wall. But it hasn't spread to the outer wall or outside the colon. Find out about treatments for stage I colon cancer. The tumor extends through the muscular wall of the colon and may also have invaded/adhered to nearby organs. But there is no cancer in the lymph nodes, which are small structures throughout the body that make and store cells that fight infection. Learn about treatments for stage II colon cancer. The cancer has spread outside the colon to one or more lymph nodes. Learn more about treatments for stage III colon cancer. The cancer has spread outside the colon to other parts of the body, such as the liver or the lungs. The tumor can be any size. It may or may not include affected lymph nodes. Get information about treatments for stage IV colon cancer. Rectal cancer is staged much the same way as colon cancer, but because the tumor is much lower down in the colon, the treatment options may vary. The tumor is only on the inner lining of the rectum. To treat this early stage cancer, a surgeon can remove the tumor or a small section of the rectum where the cancer is. Learn more about treatments for stage 0 rectal cancer. This is an early form or limited form of cancer. The tumor has broken through the inner lining of the rectum. But it hasn't gone past the muscular wall. Find out about treatment for stage I rectal cancer. The tumor has gone all the way through the bowel wall and may now be in other nearby organs, such as the bladder, uterus, or prostate gland. Read about the treatments for stage II rectal cancer. The tumor has spread to the lymph nodes, which are small structures throughout the body that make and store cells that fight infection. Get information about treatments for stage III rectal cancer. The tumor has spread (metastasized) to distant parts of the body. It may be any size. The liver and lungs are places where rectal cancer often spreads.
context: Is one of your joints swollen and tender, and does it hurt when you move? Your doctor will help you figure out what's going on, but there's a chance you could have bursitis. The condition happens when your bursae, small fluid-filled sacs near your joints, get irritated and swollen. Bursae play a key role in helping your joints move smoothly. When they're working right, they cushion your bones, tendons, and ligaments as they move against each other. If you overuse a joint in sports or on the job, put it under pressure for a long time, or get a sudden injury, a nearby bursa can get inflamed. The sac fills with extra fluid, which puts pressure on nearby tissue. The first sign of trouble is pain, along with swelling and tenderness in the area. Bursitis is different from tendinitis, which is inflammation or irritation in the cord, or tendon, that attaches your muscle to bone. You're more likely to get bursitis at an older age. One of the most common places it strikes is the shoulder, which has the greatest range of motion of all the body's major joints. If you get bursitis there, you'll likely feel pain along the outside top of your shoulder. Besides the shoulder, other joints where you can get bursitis are the elbows, hips, and knees. The pain from bursitis tends to be most severe while you use the joint, but it can also hurt at night. Bursitis may show up in people such as: Manual workers. If you do a lot of heavy lifting or repetitive motion on the job, it can strain your joints and bring on bursitis. Athletes. We're not only talking about professional players here. Even if you're just a weekend warrior, you can get bursitis after running, throwing, jumping, or making aggressive arm swings in tennis, baseball, and even bowling. Couch potatoes. No, you won't get bursitis from sitting on the sofa watching TV. But if you're out of shape and push your body too hard during exercise, you can raise your chance of having the condition. Always start a new workout routine gradually.
context: It's what happens when your immune system reacts to something that's usually harmless. Those triggers, which doctors call "allergens," can include pollen, mold, and animal dander, certain foods, or things that irritate your skin. Allergies are very common. At least 1 in 5 Americans has one. It starts when you come into contact with a trigger that you inhale, swallow, or get on your skin. In response, your body starts to make a protein called Ig E, which grabs onto the allergen. Then histamine and other chemicals get released into the blood. That causes the symptoms you notice. Your symptoms depend on how you're exposed -- through the air, your skin, food, or through an insect sting. If you've got a nasal allergy (one that's triggered by something you inhale), common symptoms include: Itchy, watery eyes Sneezing Itchy, runny nose Feeling tired or ill Common symptoms of a skin allergy include rashes and hives (a rash with raised red patches). Food allergies can also cause stomach cramps, vomiting, and diarrhea. If an insect sting was the trigger, you'll have swelling, redness, and pain where it stung you. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Most go away shortly after the exposure stops. Mild ones may be almost unnoticeable. You might just feel a little âoff.â Moderate symptoms can make you feel ill, as if you've got a cold or even the flu. Severe allergic reactions are extreme. The most severe allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. It affects your whole body. Symptoms can include: Hives and itching all over Wheezing or shortness of breath Hoarseness or tightness in the throat Tingling in the hands, feet, lips, or scalp Anaphylaxis is life-threatening, so call 911 right away. If you have an epinephrine auto-injector, use it and repeat after 5 to 15 minutes if your symptoms haven't improved. You'll still need medical care right after you give yourself the shots, even if your symptoms seem to stop, because a delayed reaction could still happen.
context: One big reason auto-injectors are so important for people with allergies: You can't predict allergic reactions. They can be mild one time and serious the next. An attack can quickly become intense and sometimes lead to anaphylaxis -- a severe, often life-threatening reaction. An auto-injector, such as an Adrenaclick, Auvi- Q, Epi Pen, Semjepi or a generic version, can treat it with a dose of epinephrine. It can help improve your breathing, raise your blood pressure if it's dropping, and reduce swelling. When you have an allergic reaction, you may wonder if it's time to give yourself a shot with an auto-injector. Experts say even if there's any doubt, use it. It's much more dangerous not to get epinephrine when you're having a severe reaction than to get a dose you don't really need. The device won't do you any good if you don't have it with you. When you pick up your prescription at the drugstore, you'll get two injectors. Carry both with you at all times in case one doesn't work or you have a reaction needs a second dose. Extreme heat and cold can damage the medication in your auto-injectors, so store them at room temperature. Don't leave them in your car. The injectors are usually good for a year, so keep track of the date on the box. There are many cases when you, or someone you know, need to use an auto-injector, but two general ones are: You have a life-threatening allergy and you know you've had contact with your allergy trigger. An example: If you have a peanut allergy and your boyfriend ate some peanuts and then kissed you, don't wait for symptoms -- take the epinephrine right away. You have allergy symptoms -- even if you don't know the trigger. Those symptoms can include: Trouble breathing, wheezing, or your airways shut down Your face, mouth, lips, or tongue swell Skin reactions like hives, itching, flushing Nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhea You get dizzy, faint, or collapse Take these steps after the first injection: If there's no relief, take a second dose. You could wait as few as 5 minutes for a severe reaction or 15 minutes if it is mild. Have someone call 911. Massage the injection site for 10 seconds to stimulate blood vessels and help the body absorb the medication. Go to the emergency room after an injection, even if your symptoms get better or seem to go away. Severe episodes can last 4 to 12 hours, and you never know at the beginning how long yours will last. The common side effects from the epinephrine injection are dizziness, restlessness, anxiety, and shakiness. In rare cases, they may be more severe. Work with your doctor to make a plan that's just for you. It should outline when you need to have an injection and how to recognize signs of a severe allergic reaction. Share the plan with anyone who might have to use the injector on you, like your spouse or co-workers. If your child carries an auto-injector, give the plan to his teachers, school nurse, baby sitter, and grandparents. Practice using the device. Check online for safety videos and updates. And make sure anyone who may have to use it knows how.
context: Unfortunately, colorectal cancer may strike without symptoms. For this reason, it is very important to have regular examinations, called colorectal screenings, to detect early problems. However, not all colorectal cancers are without symptoms. One of the early symptoms of colon cancer may be bleeding. Often, tumors bleed only small amounts, off and on, and evidence of the blood is found only during chemical testing of the stool. When tumors have grown larger, other symptoms may develop. They include: Change in bowel habits. Constipation, diarrhea, and bowel incontinence, although usually symptoms of other, less serious, problems, can also be a sign of colorectal cancer. Blood on or in the stool. By far the most alarming of all the symptoms, blood on or in the stool can be a symptom of colorectal cancer. But, it does not necessarily indicate cancer. Numerous other problems can cause bleeding in the digestive tract, including hemorrhoids, ulcers, ulcerative colitis, and Crohn's disease, to name only a few. In addition, iron and some foods, such as beets, can give the stool a black or red appearance, falsely indicating blood in the stool. However, if you notice blood in your stool, see your doctor to rule out a serious condition and to ensure proper treatment is received. Unexplained anemia . Anemia is a shortage of red blood cells, the sort that carry oxygen throughout the body. If you are anemic you will most likely feel tired and sluggish, so much so that rest does not make you feel better. Unusual stomach or gas pain Unexplained weight loss Fatigue Vomiting If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. For a patient with colorectal cancer, early diagnosis and treatment can be a lifesaver.
context: If you don't pay much attention to your nails -- or if you wear a lot of colorful polish -- you might not notice the arrival of an unwelcome visitor: fungus. But there are telltale signs when a fungal nail infection starts to settle in. Your nails may turn thick, with a yellow, brown, or chalky white tinge. They may also become brittle and crumbly, or develop cracks. When you get a fungal nail infection, it's a real pain to get rid of. So it's a good idea to know how to prevent one in the first place. Know what can put you at risk. Fungal infections are more common in older people. What's the age connection? Seniors tend to have slower-growing nails, reduced blood circulation, and a longer history of exposure to fungi. Men are also more likely than women to have nail fungus -- maybe because they're more in the habit of walking around barefoot at the gym. People with diabetes or other health conditions that weaken the immune system are also at higher risk. Be careful around fungal hotspots. Speaking of the gym, it's a bad idea to kick off your shoes in places with lots of germs, like locker rooms, swimming pools, or public showers. If you visit a nail salon, it should be clean and licensed. Make sure the technician uses sterilized or single-use instruments (or bring your own). The same goes for polish -- bring your own bottle from home. Snip carefully. Keep your nails trimmed short to help prevent the spread of infection, but remember to cut with care. Don't share your nail trimmers or other grooming tools, always clean them before each use, and never cut your cuticles. The skin around the base of the nail is there for a reason: it acts as a barrier to infection. Clean your nails well. Don't neglect your nails when you're in the shower -- scrub with soap and water to help defend against infection. Wash your hands frequently, and remember that germs can take up residence underneath your fingernails, so invest in a nailbrush to clean them out. Keep them dry. A wet, humid environment is a perfect breeding ground for fungus. How to sap the moisture: Wear gloves when you clean or wash dishes, and let them air out afterwards. Choose breathable socks and shoes, and change them oftenâespecially after you exercise. Avoid super-tight pantyhose, which can cause you to sweat more. After a shower or bath, make sure to thoroughly pat your feet dry. Protect against injury. When you injure your nail bed or the skin around your nails, it creates an opening for fungus. Never rip or bite off a hangnail -- in fact, just don't bite your nails, ever. And make sure your shoes fit well and don't rub or pinch your feet, which can also cause problems.
context: Most sore throats are caused by viruses. That means antibiotics, drugs used to treat bacterial infections, won't help your child get better any faster. There's one exception: strep throat. Bacteria does cause that condition, so antibiotics will help. If you think your child may have strep, you should see a doctor to find out. If the sore throat stems from a cold virus, it's going to need to run its course. Try these home remedies to help your child feel better: Make sure he gets plenty of rest and drinks a lot of fluids. Use a humidifier. Inhale steam. Run hot water in a sink. Drape a towel over your child's head to trap the steam, and have him lean over the sink with the water running. Tell him to breathe deeply through his mouth and nose for 5 to 10 minutes. Repeat several times a day. ( Be careful not to cause a steam burn, though.) Give him frozen treats like ice pops. Have him sip chicken broth or warm tea with honey. Don't give honey to a child under 12 months of age. For an older child: Have him gargle with warm salt water (1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt per cup (8 ounces) of water). Give him throat lozenges or hard candy to suck on. Over-the-counter cold medications may ease symptoms, too. But they won't help your child get better any faster. Before you give your child any medication, talk to your doctor. And read the label carefully.
context: You've injured your ankle and can't put your weight on it. It hurts and is tender to the touch, bruised, and swollen. It could be a sprain, or it might be broken. The symptoms of an ankle sprain are a lot like a fracture, but you'll need to know which injury you have so you can heal the right way. This happens when you damage the ligaments in your ankle. Ligaments are the tough, stretchy bands that hold your bones in place and help keep the joint stable. They're meant to stretch and move, but only to a point. A sprain means that a ligament is torn or stretched beyond its limits. This happens when at least one of three bones in your ankle breaks. If just one bone is broken, you may not realize how bad the injury is. But if multiple bones break at once, you will lose stability in your ankle and may not be able to walk. An ankle fracture can also lead to ligament damage. To help figure out what the injury might be, ask yourself a few questions: Was there a noise when it happened? A sprain may occur silently, or in severe cases there may be a popping sound. With a fracture, you might hear a crack. Is your ankle misshapen? While swelling is a symptom of both injuries, if your ankle looks clearly âoff,â it's most likely because a bone is broken. Does your ankle feel numb? With a sprain, you feel pain. But if you have numbness or tingling, your ankle is most likely broken. Where is the pain? If your ankle hurts or is tender to the touch directly over your ankle bone, you probably have a fracture. If the pain is in the soft part of your ankle, it's more likely a sprain. If you're still not sure, see your doctor. He can examine your ankle and give you a number of tests to figure out which injury you have. It's usually less involved when you are healing from a sprain. Most sprains will clear up on their own. You may take anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin) or naproxen ( Aleve). And your doctor may advise you to try the â RICEâ method to ease your inflammation: Rest Ice Compression (with an elastic bandage) Elevation (ankle above the heart) You may need physical therapy for a moderate sprain. You should start range of motion exercises once the pain and swelling subside. Surgery is usually for severe cases when other treatments have failed. If you think your ankle is broken, you should get medical treatment right away. You need to have the ankle immobilized. This could involve crutches or a cast. Your doctor may try to align the broken bones to help you heal. If the bones are unable to stay in place after your doctor has tried to stabilize the fracture, you might need surgery. You can also apply ice, elevate your ankle, and take pain relievers. Talk to your doctor. These can be vastly different for the two injuries as well. A sprain may clear up within days, with worse sprains needing several weeks to heal. Fractures usually take much longer. It could be 6 weeks to several months before you're back to your regular routine. For most ankle fractures, you can do your rehab with a basic home exercise program of stretching, range of motion, strengthening, and balance exercises.
context: Chances are you think of ear infections as something only kids get. It's true that ear infections are less common in grown children and adults, but they can still happen. Thankfully, ear infections often go away on their own and don't require medication. Still, it's helpful to know how you can treat ear pain at home. While research that says home remedies work for ear pain is scarce, most doctors agree these treatments are safe to try at home. Still, before you do, it's a good idea to talk with your doctor. Some options include: A cool or warm compress. Soak a washcloth in either cool or warm water, wring it out, and then put it over the ear that's bothering you. Try both temperatures to see if one helps you more than the other. Olive oil drops. While there's no scientific evidence that proves this treatment works, the American Academy of Pediatrics says it could be moderately effective on ear pain. Put a few drops of warm olive oil in the ear that's giving you trouble, like you would use ear drops. Olive oil or ear drops should not be used in people who have ear tubes or a ruptured ear drum. Try a pain reliever. Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen can often relieve the pain of an earache. Ask your doctor which is right for you. Chew gum. If you're on an airplane or driving at high altitudes and your ear pain is from the change in air pressure, chew some gum. It can help lower that pressure and ease your symptoms. Sleep upright. While it may sound strange, resting or sleeping sitting up rather than lying down can encourage fluid in your ear to drain. This could ease pressure and pain in your middle ear. Prop yourself up in bed with a stack of pillows, or sleep in an armchair that's a bit reclined. It's important to know when your discomfort might be a sign of something more serious. Call your doctor if: You notice fluid (such as pus or blood) oozing out of your ear You have a high fever, headache, or are dizzy You believe an object is stuck in your ear You see swelling behind your ear, especially if that side of your face feels weak or you can't move the muscles there You've had severe ear pain and it suddenly stops (which could mean a ruptured eardrum) Your symptoms don't get better (or get worse) in 24 to 48 hours