VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: Yeast infections can be uncomfortable, but they're usually not serious. You may have itching or irritation in or around your vagina, as well as a thick, white discharge. In many cases, an antifungal treatment will clear up your symptoms. If you're not sure whether you have a yeast infection or something else, it's important to see a doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment. This is important. If you don't really have a yeast infection, antifungals won't help you get better. They can actually prolong the real problem, because while you'll think you're treating the issue, the real cause will continue to develop. There are several reasons you might have symptoms that are like a yeast infection. Herpes, genital warts and trichomoniasis (trich) can also cause irritation, itchiness, and discharge that has a slight odor. With other sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea, you don't always have symptoms, but you might experience pain and burning when you pee. STDs often need a different kind of treatment than a yeast infection. For example, trich isn't caused by a fungus. It's caused by bacteria. To treat it, you'll usually need to take strong antibiotics for a short period of time. This is an infection that's caused by an overgrowth of bacteria. There's no specific cause for it, but along with redness and itchiness, you might notice discharge that's gray or white and has a fishy odor. If you have BV, your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics like metronidazole or tinidazole, or vaginally applied antibiotic creams or gels with metronidazole or clindamycin. Cleaning products can trigger symptoms if you're allergic to one or more of their ingredients. Soaps and feminine hygiene products can sometimes do this, as can laundry detergents. Certain skin conditions can also cause itching and other symptoms. They sometimes require treatment with steroid ointments like hydrocortisone. Small cuts can even feel itchy and irritated while they're healing. Hemorrhoids may be itchy. They can affect the area in and around the vagina. too. Typical home treatments are a sitz bath (warm water you sit in to help relieve pain in your bottom or around your private parts) or witch hazel wipes to soothe the symptoms. As you get older, your level of estrogen goes down. This can cause changes in your body, like thinner skin. That can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like itching and discharge. Sometimes, using a vaginal lubricant to reduce friction can help. You may also want to talk to your doctor about taking a small dose of estrogen.
context: The muscles in your lips, tongue, vocal cords, and diaphragm work together to help you speak clearly. With dysarthria, the part of your brain that controls them doesn't work well and it's hard for you to move those muscles the right way. Other people may not be able to understand you very well. Some people with dysarthria have only minor speech problems. Others have a lot of trouble getting their words out. A speech-language therapist can help. Dysarthria can make your speech: Flat Higher or lower pitched than usual Jerky Mumbled Slow or fast Slurred Soft, like a whisper Strained It also can change the quality of your voice. You might sound hoarse or stuffed up, as if you have a cold. Because dysarthria can make it harder to move your lips, tongue, and jaw, it can also make it harder for you to chew and swallow. Trouble swallowing can cause you to drool. Conditions that cause this speech problem include: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), or Lou Gehrig's disease Brain injury Brain tumors Cerebral palsy Huntington's disease Multiple sclerosis Parkinson's disease Stroke If you have trouble speaking, you should see a speech-language pathologist ( SLP). She'll ask about any diseases you have that could affect your speech. She'll also want to check the strength of the muscles in your lips, tongue, and jaw as you talk. She might ask you to: Stick out your tongue Make different sounds Read a few sentences Count numbers Sing Blow out a candle Speech-language therapy is the only treatment for dysarthria. How much your speech may improve depends on the condition that caused it. Your therapist will teach you: Exercises to strengthen the muscles of your mouth and jaw Ways to speak more clearly, such as talking more slowly or pausing to catch your breath How to control your breath to make your voice louder How to use devices like an amplifier to improve the sound of your voice Your therapist also will give you tips to help you communicate, such as: Carry a notebook or smartphone with you. If someone doesn't understand you, write or type what you want to say. Make sure you have the other person's attention. Speak slowly. Talk face to face if you can. The other person will be able to understand you better if they can see your mouth move. Try not to talk in noisy places, like at a restaurant or party. Turn down music or the TV before you speak, or go outside. Use facial expressions or hand gestures to get your point across. Use short phrases and words that are easier for you to say. The therapist will work with your family to help them understand you better. She may suggest that they: Ask if they don't understand something Give you time to finish what you have to say Look at you when they talk with you Repeat the part they understood so you don't have to say the whole thing again Try not to finish your sentences for you
context: Eyeball looks cloudy The person notices a sudden change in vision 1. Flush Eyes Fill a sink or dishpan with cool water. Have the person put his/her face in water. The person should open and close eyes to get water to all parts of eye. If a serious chemical injury to the eye(s) is suspected, continue flushing out the eye with water until an ambulance arrives or the injured person arrives in the emergency room. Alkali substances such as drain cleaners are particularly harmful to the eye. Optimal flushing would include putting the person in a shower with the water aimed at the face with someone helping to keep the eyes open. If a shower is not available, then splashing running water from a sink is second best. If the accident happened at a worksite, it is more important to flush out the eye(s) for at least 20-30 minutes than to transport the person to the hospital immediately. 2. When to See a Doctor Call a doctor if the person has: Decreased, double, or blurred vision that doesn't clear with blinking Eye pain Discomfort when looking at light The feeling that something like sand is in eye Redness, swelling, twitching, tears, or discharge Any symptom lasting more than 24 hours Symptoms that happen more often or get worse
context: As with certain medications, there are many alternative therapies deemed unsafe for pregnant women. Before taking an alternative remedy, be sure to talk with your health care provider. The following alternative treatments can safely be used during pregnancy: Nausea: Acupuncture, acupressure, ginger root (250mg capsules 4 times a day), and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine, 25mg two or three times a day) work well and are considered safe for pregnant women. Backache: Chiropractic manipulation and massage may help. Turning a breech baby: Exercise and hypnosis have proven beneficial. Trials are underway to investigate moxibustion, a traditional Chinese treatment that burns an herb close to the skin and is stated to be beneficial in turning a breech baby. Pain relief in labor: Epidurals are most effective, but other methods like immersion in a warm bath and acupuncture can be effective. A high-tech nerve stimulator called TENS may also be effective if used in conjunction with other pain control treatments. Relaxation techniques, patterned breathing, emotional support, and self-hypnosis are already widely used alternative therapies in labor. Some alternative treatments are not recommended during pregnancy. The following substances have the potential to harm a developing baby when used in a concentrated formulation (not as a spice in cooking). Some are thought to cause birth defects, and some to encourage early labor. Avoid these oral supplements: Arborvitae Beth root Black cohosh Blue cohosh Cascara Chaste tree berry Chinese angelica ( Dong Quai) Cinchona Cotton root bark Feverfew Ginseng Golden seal Juniper Kava kava Licorice Meadow saffron Pennyroyal Poke root Rue Sage Saint Johns wort Senna Tansy White peony Wormwood Yarrow Yellow dock Large doses of vitamin A can cause birth defects. Avoid these aromatherapy essential oils: Calamus Mugwort Pennyroyal Sage Wintergreen Basil Hyssop Myrrh Marjoram Thyme If you have a question about the safety of an alternative therapy, always ask your health care provider before using it.
context: Tips for Living With MS Take advantage of simple lifestyle changes to ease your multiple sclerosis symptoms. Some of the keys to a smoother day: Improve your sleep habits, eat healthy food, and get smart with technology. Get Better Rest Take a nap to fight fatigue, but no more than 2 hours. Longer than that might keep you up at night. To fall asleep easier, listen to relaxing music before you get into bed. To sleep better at night, try meditation, deep breathing, or yoga during the day. Do you wake up at night with a need to go? Skip that glass of water before bed. Watch What You Eat and Drink For an energy boost, instead of three big meals a day eat several smaller ones packed with nutrients. Eat low-fat, high-fiber foods to help prevent heart disease and diabetes, which make MS worse. To keep your bladder under better control, cut back on coffee. It increases your urge to go. Travel safely: Stay hydrated on vacation, but be cautious about local water and raw foods. Put Gadgets to Work for You Put a fan at your desk to keep cool while you work. Get a motorized scooter to make shopping easier. Put hand controls in your car so you can speed up and apply the brakes without using your feet. Is food prep a real chore? Use electric can openers and forks and knives with easy-grip handles. Don't let the heat make you tired. Wear a cooling vest when you go outside in the summer. Wear lightweight shoes with good tread to avoid falling while you're out for a walk.
context: See a doctor or go to a hospital emergency room if: Pain is from a severe blow or injury Neck pain radiates down the arms and legs Headaches, numbness, tingling, or weakness occur with pain The person has a stiff neck with fever, vomiting, and sensitivity to light Apply dry or moist heat. If the area is inflamed, apply ice for 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. Give pain medication such as acetaminophen ( Tylenol), ibuprofen ( Advil, Motrin), or Naproxen ( Aleve, Naprosyn). The affected area should not be used for a day or two. Normal activities should be gradually resumed. The person should see a doctor if pain doesn't get better or worsens. The person may need an X-ray or CT scan depending on the symptoms or an MRI to determine whether the person has a herniated disc or other nerve compression.
context: Calcium channel blockers are prescribed to treat angina (chest pain) and high blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers affect the movement of calcium in the cells of the heart and blood vessels. As a result, calcium channel blockers relax blood vessels and increase the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart, while reducing its workload. Calcium channel blockers may be used to treat heart failure caused by high blood pressure when other medications to lower blood pressure do not work. Calcium channel blockers generally should not be used if you have heart failure due to systolic dysfunction. Calcium channel blockers include: Norvasc Plendil Cardizem Covera Isoptin Calcium channel blockers should be taken with food or milk. Follow the medication label directions. The number of doses you take each day, the time allowed between doses, and how long you need to take it will depend on the type of medication prescribed and on your condition. Side effects of calcium channel blockers include: Drowsiness Increased appetite Swelling Contact your doctor if these side effects are persistent or severe. If you have any of the following side effects, contact your doctor right away. Weight gain Breathing difficulty Coughing or wheezing Irregular or slow heartbeat Skin rash When taking calcium channel blockers: Ask your doctor if you need to avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking your calcium channel blocker. Alcohol may interfere with the effects of calcium channel blockers and increase the side effects. It is important that your doctor is aware of all the medications you are taking, as some may have the potential to interact with calcium channel blockers. Talk to your doctor before taking any new drug, including over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and supplements. While taking calcium channel blockers, have your blood pressure checked regularly, as advised by your doctor. Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory so that your response to the drug can be monitored. While taking this medication, your doctor may tell you to take and record your pulse daily. Your provider will tell you how rapid your pulse should be. If your pulse is slower than advised, contact your doctor about taking your calcium channel blocker that day.
context: Irritable bowel syndrome ( IBS) affects up to 45 million Americans. But doctors don't know a lot about what causes this gut disorder. Finding a treatment that works can take time, and other health problems can crop up in the meantime. None of the complications are life-threatening, though. IBS doesn't lead to cancer or other more serious bowel-related conditions. Here are some of the health issues it can cause: Impacted bowel: If you're constipated for a long time, stool can get blocked in your colon. Sometimes it can get so hard that you can't push it out. This is known as a fecal impaction. It can hurt and cause things like headache, nausea, and vomiting. It happens most often with older adults. See your doctor right away if you have signs this may be happening. Food intolerance: Certain foods can make your IBS symptoms worse. What they are can be different for everyone. But some people feel better when they cut out wheat, dairy, coffee, eggs, yeast, potatoes, and citrus fruits. And fats and sugars can make diarrhea worse. Your doctor may suggest you try a FODMAP diet to cut out some carbohydrates that are hard to digest. Malnourishment: Cutting back on some types of foods can ease your IBS symptoms. But your body may not get all the nutrients it needs. A dietitian can help you find a diet that works for you. Hemorrhoids: Swollen blood vessels around your anus, the opening where stool comes out, can hurt and bleed. Very hard or very loose stools can make the situation worse. If the swollen vessels are inside your anus, they may fall far enough to stick out. You can often treat hemorrhoids at home with an over-the-counter cream. You also might try sitting on a cold ice pack. And be sure to keep the area clean. Pregnancy complications: Hormone changes and the physical pressure a baby puts on the bowel wall can cause digestive issues. Many women also choose to stop any IBS drugs they're taking. This can be better for the baby. But it can make moms-to-be more likely to have things like heartburn and indigestion. Quality of life: Flare-ups can happen without warning. Also, you may have diarrhea for a time and then be constipated. Not being able to predict how you'll feel can make it hard to go about your daily life. You also probably need to see your doctor often and are likely to miss more work than other people. It may be harder to focus when you're at your job. Managing stress, for example through exercise or meditation, can help. Depression and anxiety: It's common for people who have IBS to feel like they're losing control over their lives. If your symptoms are bad, you may find yourself always trying to map out the nearest bathroom. Because there's a link between your brain and gut, this kind of stress can make your IBS worse. The pain and the awkward symptoms you're dealing with can affect your mood. It may help to talk to a counselor about what's going on with you.
context: Stress affects your feelings, your body, and the way you act. The right amount of stress can actually help you. It keeps you alert and full of energy. Too much, though, can harm your quality of life and keep you awake at night. Even though you might feel frazzled, you may try to get by on less sleep than you need. But better sleep can help you fight infections, boost your metabolism, and cut your chances of getting diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes. Controlling your stress can improve your rest. It's a win-win. Stress can show up in different ways. Some common signs, besides sleep loss, include depression, tension, anxiety, and poor focus. You might feel physical signs, too, like headaches, upset stomach, fatigue, appetite loss, and chest, neck, or back pain. Find the source of your stress: Once you know what's causing your discomfort, you can take steps to deal with it. So identify the stress you have at work, at home, and in your relationships. Get support: Spending time with people who care about you is a key buffer. You can confide in each other or do things that are fun. Practice having healthy thoughts: What you think, how you think, and what you expect out of situations can affect how you feel. You can learn to change stressful thinking. One common mistake is to focus on the way things "should" be. ( Example: " I should be more productive around the house.") Another mistake is to make broad statements based on one small fact. ( Example: " I'm failing at my job because I had one food splurge.â) Many books can teach you how to improve your self-talk. Certain types of counseling, including cognitive behavioral therapy, can help you focus on more empowering thoughts, too. Get moving: Exercise eases stress by letting you blow off tension. Flexible muscles are also less likely to become tense when you're stressed. If you have a medical condition, are over age 45, or haven't been active for a while, it's best to check with your doctor before starting an exercise routine, so you know what's OK for you to do. Eat a better diet: You probably already know how smart it is to eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and less sugar, caffeine, and alcohol. When you make that shift, you'll have more energy to handle stress. Lighten your load: Having too many commitments or responsibilities on your schedule can lead to stress. Start asking others for help, and find ways to free up more of your time. Take steps to improve your sleep: Set a regular bedtime and waking-up time, and stick to them. Before you go to bed, wind down with meditation or relaxation techniques. Just sitting quietly for a few minutes can make a difference. If your sleep problems persist, talk to a doctor. They can help you address your stress and help you figure out what's causing it.
context: The first step in treating clinical depression is recognizing that you are depressed. The second step is seeking help. These two steps may in fact be the hardest part of the entire treatment process. Once you seek help from a qualified health care provider, you will find that there are numerous treatment options to help you get back on track. Early recognition and treatment will offer you the greatest chance of recovery and the earlier you seek help the greater the chance that recurrences can be prevented. Once you decide to seek medical help, start with your primary care doctor. He or she can evaluate you to make sure that medicines or another illness are not the source of your symptoms. Your primary care doctor can also thoroughly assess your symptoms and provide treatment. If needed, he may refer you to a mental health care professional for care. Your primary care doctor may routinely screen you for depression during a regular office visit. Health care providers in many different environments and specialties are trained to identify the presence of depression. The following are general health care providers who are qualified to treat depression: Physician: Primary care doctors (such as internists or family practice doctors) are primarily skilled in medical health care but also are trained to treat mental or psychiatric problems. They can also screen you for depression. Physicians usually recommend specialized care for patients with more than mild symptoms of depression. Physician Assistant: These medical health care givers are trained to identify symptoms of depression in patients and have some training in treating mental or psychiatric disorders under the supervision of a physician. Nurse Practitioner: These health care providers are registered nurses ( RNs) with added nursing training and some training in treating mental or psychiatric problems. Psychiatrist: These are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of mental or psychiatric illnesses. Psychiatrists are licensed to prescribe drugs as part of their treatment regimen and are also trained in psychotherapy, a form of "talking" therapy. Psychologist: These are doctoral degree ( Ph D or Psy D) experts in psychology and are trained in counseling, psychotherapy, and psychological testing. Psychologists are not medical doctors and are not medically trained, and therefore are not licensed to prescribe medicines to treat mental illnesses except in a few states where legislation has permitted this. Social Worker: These are specialists who provide mental health services for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of depression and other mental or psychiatric illness in individuals, families, and groups. Their goal is to enhance and maintain a person's physical, psychological, and social functioning. Psychiatric Nurse Specialists: These are registered nurses ( RNs) who are educated in psychiatric nursing and specialize in treating mental or psychiatric illnesses.
context: The difficulties of Parkinson's disease don't have to interfere with traveling, which should be an enjoyable experience and not limited or avoided because of the disease. But planning ahead is key to avoid these difficulties. The following guidelines should help to make your next trip anxiety-free. Always try to travel with a companion. Place the names of your doctor, insurance company, emergency contact, and medications in your wallet or purse. Carry identification stating that you have Parkinson's disease. Use a "fanny" pack or backpack so that you have both hands free to balance as you walk, especially if walking any distance. Pack snacks and carry a water bottle to take medications. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and good walking shoes. When making hotel reservations, request a room on the ground floor or near an elevator. Ask if they have rooms that are handicapped-accessible; these usually include grab bars in the shower and bathroom and have wider spaces between furniture for wheelchair access. Always have at least a day's dosage of medication in your pocket or purse. Try to carry all of your medications with you, in the event that your luggage gets misplaced. Pack enough medications to last the entire trip. Do not rely on out-of-town, or especially out-of-the-country, pharmacies for refills. Check with your doctor about any over-the-counter drugs, such as those for motion sickness or diarrhea, before you leave. Find out if your medications are "sun-sensitive" and plan accordingly. Carry a list and schedule of medications with you. If possible, use a watch with an alarm or an alarm pillbox. If you are traveling with time changes it may be difficult for you to remember on your own. Many Parkinson's medications can cause drowsiness, particularly after eating. If you are driving, take a nap before you go and avoid eating for two to three hours before departing. Do not overestimate your abilities. While you may be capable of driving short distances to and from home, a longer road trip may require much more stamina. Either break the trip up into shorter distances with frequent stops, or share the driving with someone else. Request a non-stop flight and an aisle seat. Check as many bags as possible, but remember to keep your medications in your carry-on. Use airport shuttles, or ask for a wheelchair if your gate is a far distance. Ask for early seating for a few extra minutes to board and get comfortable. Use the bathroom before you get on the plane. Airplane bathrooms are often small and not handicapped-accessible. If you are on a restricted diet, request a special meal in advance. Wheelchair lifts are generally available for entrances and exits. Seats can generally be removed to accommodate wheelchairs. Try to get an aisle seat near the exit to make getting on and off easier.
context: It's often hard to tell why you are nauseated or vomiting. A health care provider will likely be able to find out what is happening to you. He or she will ask about the severity and timing of your symptoms, as well as take a food history and ask if you have had any contact with sick people. You will also undergo a physical exam to look for causes and signs of dehydration. Blood and/or urine tests and/or an abdominal X-ray may be taken to determine the cause of nausea and vomiting. Home treatments can help relieve nausea. Drink water, sports drinks, or broths. Juices and soft drinks should be avoided. Eat as tolerated, but only light, bland foods, such as crackers or plain bread to begin with. If your nausea is chronic, you'll need to find a variety of vegetables and proteins that don't upset your stomach to maintain proper nutrition. Stay away from fried or greasy foods. Steer clear of sweets. Eat small meals and eat them slowly. Rest a while after eating with your head elevated. After determining the cause of nausea and vomiting, there are prescription drugs that your doctor can give you if the symptoms are not getting better on their own.
context: A corneal abrasion is a scratch on your eye. It can happen in an instant. You poke your eye or something gets trapped under your eyelid, like dirt or sand. Your eye hurts, and it doesn't get better when you close it -- if you can keep it shut. Light makes it sting and burn. It's actually on your cornea. That's the clear layer that covers the iris, the colored part of your eye. It also shields the pupil -- the black circle in the middle of your eye. You might get a scratch if you: Poke your eye with a fingernail, pen, or makeup brush Get dirt, sand, sawdust, ash, or some other foreign matter in your eye Get chemicals in your eye Rub it too hard Wear poor-fitting or dirty contact lenses Get a certain type of eye infection Have surgery without proper eye protection Play sports or engage in high-risk physical activity without safety eyewear Overwear your contact lenses You may not feel symptoms right away. As a result, you may not be able to figure out what caused it. Yes. If you feel like there's something in your eye, you're going to want to rub it. Don't -- that's how you get a scratch. Do this instead: Blink your eye several times. Pull your upper eyelid over the lower eyelid. Gently rinse your eye out with clean water or a sterile saline solution. Don't try to remove anything that's stuck onto your cornea. Only a doctor should do that. If you still feel like something's in your eye, see an eye doctor as soon as you can or go to the emergency room. The doctor will look at your eye and use a product called eye stain that lets him see the surface of your cornea. If something is on it or in it, he can safely remove it. If you've scratched your eye before, you'll probably remember how it feels. If not, you might: Feel like you have sand or grit in your eye Have pain, especially when you open or close your eye Notice tearing and redness Become sensitive to light Have blurred vision Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eyedrops or ointment to keep your eye from getting infected. He might also give you medicated eyedrops to ease pain and redness, along with pain medicine. She might tape your eye shut and have you wear a patch over your eye to keep light from bothering it. A minor scratch should heal on its own in 1 to 3 days. More severe abrasions may take longer. While your eye heals: Don't rub your eye. Don't wear contacts until your eye doctor says it's safe to do so. Wear sunglasses to ease discomfort caused by sunlight. You should fully recover from a minor scratch without permanent eye damage. But deep scratches can cause infections, scars, and other problems. If you don't take care of them, they can lead to long-term vision problems. Report any unusual symptoms, including a return of pain after treatment, to your eye doctor.
context: Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted disease ( STD). It's easily cured but can be serious if it's not treated. This STD develops in four stages. Symptoms in the first two can be so mild that you might not notice them. One stage -- latent syphilis -- doesn't have symptoms. The other three phases have distinct symptoms. They develop as follows: Primary Painless sores appear at the site of infection (mouth, anus, rectum, vagina, or penis). These are called chancres. The sores heal on their own after 3 to 6 weeks, but you can still spread syphilis. It's easily treated and cured with medicine. Secondary Rough red or reddish brown rash on palms of hands and soles of feet Swollen lymph nodes Fever Sore throat Patchy hair loss Headaches and body aches Extreme tiredness (fatigue) These symptoms will go away, even if you don't get treated. But if you're not treated, your infection will get worse. Latent During this phase, the syphilis bacteria are still alive in your body, but you have no signs or symptoms of the infection. You're not contagious during this stage, but syphilis may still affect your heart, brain, nerves, bones, and other parts of your body. This phase can last for years. Not everyone who has syphilis will enter this phase of the infection. Some people will go into the tertiary stage. Tertiary ( Late) This stage begins when symptoms from the secondary stage disappear. Syphilis isn't contagious at this point, but the infection has started to affect your organs. This can lead to death. Symptoms of tertiary syphilis may include: Problems controlling muscle movements Numbness Vision problems (you may start going blind) Dementia If you have syphilis, you can spread it during the first two stages and the early latent stage to someone you have sex with. If your partner touches a chancre or your rash, they can get the infection. It can enter the body through the genitals, mouth or broken skin. A pregnant woman infected with syphilis can pass it on to her baby. Even if the chancre is hidden inside your vagina or rectum, you can still spread syphilis. To lower your risk of catching this STD, always use condoms during sex. If you think there's a chance you or your partner has it, get tested and treated.
context: No one knows for sure how H. pylori spreads or why some people develop peptic ulcers without being infected with H. pylori, so prevention is difficult. Researchers are trying to develop a vaccine to prevent infection. Some helpful tips to prevent or allow healing of ulcers include: Avoid foods that irritate your stomach. Use common sense: If it upsets your stomach when you eat it, avoid it. Everyone is different, but spicy foods, citrus fruits, and fatty foods are common irritants. Stop smoking. Heavy smokers are more likely to develop duodenal ulcers than nonsmokers. Practice moderation. Heavy consumption of alcohol and has been shown to contribute to the development of ulcers, so keep your intake to a minimum. Take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs ( NSAIDS including aspirin and ibuprofen) with food, as this may decrease your risk of irritating the lining of your stomach Learn how to control your stress levels. Regular exercise and mind-body relaxation techniques (such as guided imagery and yoga or tai chi) are often helpful.
context: Unless you are totally immobilized from a back injury, your doctor probably will examine your range of motion and nerve function and touch your body to locate the area of discomfort. Blood and urine tests may be done to determine if the pain is caused by an infection or other systemic problem. X-rays are useful in pinpointing broken bones or other skeletal defects. They can sometimes help locate problems in connective tissue. To analyze soft-tissue or disc damage, computed tomography ( CT) or magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) scans may be needed. X-rays and imaging studies are generally used to confirm your symptoms and exam results to identify the source of pain. Scans are also utilized in cases of direct trauma to the back, back pain with fever, or weakness or numbness in the limbs. To determine possible nerve or muscle damage, an electromyogram ( EMG) may be ordered.
context: The person shows signs of shock. See Shock Treatment. Go to a hospital emergency room or see a doctor for these symptoms, especially if the person has been using tampons, a diaphragm, or contraceptive sponge or has a skin wound or infection: High fever that appears suddenly Faintness Headache Muscle aches Vomiting Diarrhea Sunburn-like rash Confusion The doctor will do an exam and blood tests. If toxic shock syndrome is diagnosed, the person will likely be hospitalized and treated with intravenous antibiotics.
context: If you've been diagnosed with cancer, you're probably hoping to hear your doctor use the word âremission.â It marks a major turn in your care and long-term health. But it's more complicated than simply being done with treatment. There are two types of remission: Partial remission means the cancer is still there, but your tumor has gotten smaller -- or in cancers like leukemia, you have less cancer throughout your body. Some doctors tell patients to think of their cancer as âchronic,â like heart disease. It's something you will need to continue to check. If you're in partial remission, it may mean you can take a break from treatment as long as the cancer doesn't begin to grow again. Complete remission means that tests, physical exams, and scans show that all signs of your cancer are gone. Some doctors also refer to complete remission as âno evidence of disease ( NED).â That doesn't mean you are cured. There's no way for doctors to know that all of the cancer cells in your body are gone, which is why many doctors don't use the word âcured.â If cancer cells do come back, it usually happens within the 5 years following the first diagnosis and treatment. Some cancer cells can remain unnoticed in the body for years after treatment. If a cancer returns after it has been in remission, it's called a ârecurrence.â It's normal to be concerned that this will happen to you. Every situation is different, and there's no way to predict what will happen. Your doctor or health care center will continue to check for signs of cancer or health problems related to your treatment. It's crucial to get all recommended checkups, even if you have no symptoms. Follow-up care can include physical exams, blood tests, and imaging tests.
context: Your description of your symptoms may be all a doctor requires to diagnose heartburn, but sometimes additional testing may be necessary. The esophagus can be viewed through an endoscope, a long, thin, flexible tube inserted through the mouth, or by X-ray. Sometimes, your doctor may recommend a 24-hour esophageal p H probe study, especially if you have unusual symptoms, such as throat or chest or abdominal pain, coughing, or asthma-like symptoms. In this test, a long, narrow, flexible tube is inserted through the nose down into the esophagus and a probe is left there for 24 hours. This probe detects acid levels to determine if it correlates with your symptoms. A newer technique (called Bravo) measures up to 48-hour acid; it is done using wireless p H sensors, which eliminates the need for a tube insertion. To detect if your heart is the cause of your symptoms, an electrocardiogram ( ECG), a recording of the heart's electrical activity, may be taken.
context: So, you've broken your hip. Whether it was from a fall, a blow to your hip, or something else, you'll do best if you have surgery right away. But first, your doctor might want to do some tests to make sure you're strong enough for the procedure. Your treatment will likely combine surgery, rehab, and meds to help you manage pain. Your doctor will judge your health and the way you broke your hip to decide which of the following methods is best: Internal repair. Your surgeon inserts screws into your bone. This holds it together while the fracture heals. Sometimes she'll attach the screws to a metal plate placed along your thighbone. Partial hip replacement. This is usually done if the ends of the fractured bone are damaged or out of place. Your surgeon will replace the top of the bone with a metal prosthesis. That's a substitute for a missing part. Total hip replacement. This is a good option if your joint has been damaged by arthritis or another injury. Your surgeon replaces your upper femur (your thighbone) and the socket in your pelvic bone with prostheses. Hip replacement options are good choices if the fracture damages the blood supply to the ball part of your hip joint. This is the part that lets your upper leg bend and rotate. Not having enough blood supply keeps the bone from healing as well. You might. Or you could choose to go straight to a rehab facility where you can start your recovery treatment right away. You'll probably need help getting out of bed the day after your operation. A physical therapist will work with you for as long as you need to get strong and walk again. This can take as long as 3 months. Your doctor will help you manage it so you can feel better and heal faster. She'll give you short-term pain relief medicine. She'll likely combine drugs that keep down swelling and local anesthetics that numb the surgery site. Most patients need to take medicine to thin their blood. This cuts down the chances of having blood clots. Special compression socks or boots that support your leg and improve blood flow can help, too. Your doctor might be wary of prescribing drugs called opioids. These are narcotics that relieve pain by blocking the signal to your brain. They work but can be very addictive. It's important to take them only as instructed. As soon as the pain gets better, stop. During your appointments after surgery, your surgeon will check the wound, remove any stitches, and take X-rays. She'll see how your physical therapy is going and decide whether you need more. An occupational therapist can help you get back in the swing of daily life, too. This can include practical things like bathing, dressing, cooking, and going to the bathroom. You're likely to get back much -- and maybe all -- of the freedom and mobility you had before. About 20% of people who have a hip fracture will have another within 2 years. You may lower the chances of this by figuring out what caused it the first time. A drug called a bisphosphonate can reduce your risk. It stops your bones from getting weak. But if you take it by mouth, it can have side effects. Your doctor might want you to have it through an IV tube.
context: When your elbow bends, that's normal. When your penis bends, you may have a condition called Peyronie's disease. If your penis doesn't "stand up straight," you're not alone. Some men naturally have a mild curve due to simple anatomy. But others have Peyronie's disease, where scar tissue in the penis causes it to bend during erections. It usually bends up, though any direction is possible. The bend can be mild or severe -- as much as 90 degrees or more. No one knows for sure how many men have Peyronie's disease, but experts think the number is probably between 5% and 10%. It's more common in men over 40. We're not sure what causes Peyronie's disease. Many doctors think it's the result of minor injury to the penis during sex. This can happen when an erection is less than firm, allowing the penis to bend. But many men with Peyronie's disease don't remember hurting themselves like that. Genes may also play a role. It's not cancer, and there is no evidence that it's caused by a sexually transmitted disease. It's possible. In a little more than 10% of men who first notice a bend in their penis, it will get straighter on its own over time. But it's much more likely that the curve will get worse before the condition levels off, which could take a year or more. The penis has two chambers that fill with blood to make an erection. Each chamber is covered in a strong, stretchy sheath. Damage to this sheath is thought to cause inflammation that leads to scar tissue. The inflammation may make erections painful. The good news: The pain doesn't last. It usually disappears once healing from the injury is complete. Unless it prevents you from having sex, Peyronie's disease shouldn't affect fertility. Bring in photos of your erect penis. A doctor can usually diagnose Peyronie's disease by looking at the photos, asking you questions about your symptoms and any injuries you recall, and feeling for scar tissue. If Peyronie's disease is causing painful sex or if the curve makes it tough to have sex, see your doctor, who may refer you to a urologist. Treatments include oral medicines, penile injections, and surgery. Pills or injections in your penis are usually the first treatment your doctor will try. If neither of these help and you continue to have a hard time having sex, you may need surgery.
context: If you take medicine for heart disease, you may need to avoid certain drugs that are used for other conditions. Some may cause your blood pressure to go up. Others can keep your heart medication from working the way it should. You get NSAIDs as a prescription or over the counter, and they're often used to ease pain or treat inflammation from arthritis. But these drugs may not be the right thing if you have heart disease. NSAIDs can make your body hold onto fluid and can affect how well your kidneys work. This may raise your blood pressure. The extra fluid and higher blood pressure increase your heart's workload. NSAIDs also can increase your risk for heart attack or stroke, particularly if you take them in high doses. Some common NSAIDs are: Aspirin Ibuprofen ( Motrin, Advil) Naproxen ( Aleve) Your doctor may be able to recommend alternatives, such as acetaminophen ( Tylenol) instead of ibuprofen. Some other over-the-counter meds may have NSAIDs on their ingredient list. So always check labels carefully. If you take aspirin to prevent heart attack or stroke, make sure you take only the amount suggested by your doctor. Many of these medications contain NSAIDs to relieve pain. They also often have decongestants in them, which can make your heart disease worse in these ways: Your blood pressure and heart rate may go up. The meds may prevent your heart disease medicine from working right. Ask your doctor about other ways to ease symptoms of cold, flu, or sinus problems. Some medicines that treat migraines work by tightening blood vessels in your head. This eases your pain, but it also narrows blood vessels throughout your body. It could make your blood pressure rise, perhaps even to dangerous levels. If you have high blood pressure or any other type of heart disease, talk with your doctor before taking medication for migraines or severe headaches. Appetite suppressants tend to "rev" up your body. This can make your blood pressure rise and put more stress on your heart. Other weight loss medications can cause problems with your heart valves. Always check with your doctor before you use any weight loss medications. Be sure any drugs you choose to use are safe for people who have heart disease. These suggestions can help: Give a list of all the medications you use, both prescription and over-the-counter, to every doctor you visit. Read labels before you buy over-the-counter medicine. Make sure it doesn't have ingredients that could make your heart disease worse. Talk to your doctor before you take any over-the-counter medication, herbal preparation, vitamins or other nutritional supplements.
context: It depends on how bad it is. Clots lodged in veins near the surface of the skin often go away on their own in a week or two. But if you do need treatment, your doctor will probably give you something to relieve swelling and pain. He may recommend you elevate your leg or take over-the-counter aspirin or ibuprofen. He might also suggest you apply heat to the affected leg for 15 to 30 minutes two to three times daily. You may need to wear compression stockings. These help to improve blood flow to your legs. They also help to reduce swelling. If your thrombophlebitis is more severe, your doctor may give you a blood thinner like heparin or fondaparinux ( Arixtra). You can get some of these medications in the hospital through an IV. You can give others to yourself through shots under your skin at home. They help keep the clot from getting bigger. You may also have to take an oral drug like w arfarin ( Coumadin) for several months or longer to keep clots from coming back. Your doctor will give you regular blood tests to make sure the meds are working. A number of newer blood thinners, like direct thrombin inhibitors and factor Xa inhibitors, are also available. But doctors don't normally recommend them as the first-line treatment for thrombophlebitis. That's because they cost more and may cause uncontrollable bleeding. They include apixaban ( Eliquis), dabigatran ( Pradaxa), edoxaban ( Savaysa), and rivaroxaban ( Xarelto). Serious cases of thrombophlebitis may require treatment with antibiotics. These kill infections caused by poor circulation. If there's a high risk of tissue damage, or if your clot comes back, you may need surgery after the inflammation improves. In the event you have a clot in a deep vein in your leg, your doctor might recommend an inferior vena cava ( IVC) filter. The vena cava is the main vein in your abdomen. The IVC filter prevents clots in your legs from breaking loose and traveling to your lungs.
context: Cinnamon is best known as a spice, sprinkled on toast and lattes. But extracts from the bark of the cinnamon tree have also been used in traditional medicine around the world. There are many types of cinnamon, but darker-colored cassia is the one most commonly sold in the United States. Ceylon cinnamon, also known as true cinnamon, is frequently found in other countries. Some research shows cassia cinnamon may lower blood sugar in people with diabetes. But other studies haven't found a benefit. There's also no proof that cinnamon can lower cholesterol or treat yeast infections in people with HIV. Cinnamon also shows promise as an antioxidant, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory, but for now, there aren't enough studies to prove it can help. Because cinnamon is an unproven treatment, there isn't a set dose. Some experts suggest 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (2-4 grams) of powder a day. Some studies have used between 1 gram and 6 grams of cinnamon. Very high doses might be toxic. Cinnamon is added to countless foods. The cinnamon you buy at the store could be one of the two main types, Ceylon or cassia, or a mixture of both. Ceylon is easier to grind but it may not work as well for diabetes. Irritation and allergies. Cinnamon usually causes no side effects. But heavy use could irritate your mouth and lips, causing sores. Some people are allergic to it. It might cause redness and irritation if you put it on your skin. Toxicity. Eating lots of cassia cinnamon could be toxic, especially if you have liver problems. Coumarin, an ingredient in some cinnamon products, can cause liver problems, but the amount you'd get is so small that it probably won't be a problem. Given the lack of evidence about its safety, children, pregnant women, and women who are breastfeeding should avoid cinnamon as a treatment. Lower blood sugar. Cinnamon may affect your blood sugar, so if you have diabetes and take cinnamon supplements, you might need to adjust your treatment. Interactions. If you take any medication regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using cinnamon supplements. They could affect the way antibiotics, diabetes drugs, blood thinners, heart medicines, and others work.