VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: After menopause, hormone replacement therapy ( HRT) is often prescribed to resupply the body with the hormones it no longer produces. Discuss this with your doctor. As with any medication, there are risks and benefits, and each woman should decide if HRT is the right choice for her. HRT typically consists of an estrogen/progestin supplement -- usually given orally or through a skin patch or gel. Estrogen is the component that treats hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis (thinning of the bones). Estrogen alone can increase the risk of endometrial or uterine cancer -- since it stimulates cell growth -- but progestin counteracts that risk. However, progestin and estrogen both have negative side effects like irregular bleeding, headaches, bloating, and breast swelling and pain. You may even develop an artificial monthly period, depending on the dosage you're on. Estrogen may be used alone in women who have had a hysterectomy. Recently, research on HRT through the Women's Health Initiative turned up some controversial findings: Heart attacks, strokes, blood clots, and breast cancer occurred more often in women taking combination HRT. Taking estrogen alone slightly increased the risk of stroke and blood clots and didn't appear to increase or decrease the risk of heart disease. No increased risk of breast cancer was found for those women on estrogen-only therapy. Combination and estrogen-only HRT are still effective therapies for relieving menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. While not appropriate for everyone, these treatments may still have their place for some women facing menopause or menopause-related issues. As an alternative treatment for menopause symptoms of the vagina, your doctor may prescribe a vaginal estrogen cream to help stop the thinning of vaginal tissues and improve lubrication. Your diet can also help you get through menopause: Eat foods high in plant estrogens -- such as soy beans and soy milk. Some research suggests soy may ease symptoms such as hot flashes. Other research shows it may raise the risk of cancer in women who have a uterus. Nuts and seeds, fennel, celery, parsley, and flaxseed oil may also help. Raise your calcium intake -- to 1,000 to 1,500 mg a day -- and do regular weight-bearing exercise to avoid osteoporosis and maintain general good health. An extract of black cohosh is thought to reduce symptoms without causing the problems associated with estrogen. It is important to understand that there is little scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of these alternative treatments.
context: The symptoms of Graves' disease include: Weight loss despite increased appetite Faster heart rate, higher blood pressure, and increased nervousness Excessive perspiration Increased sensitivity to heat More frequent bowel movements Muscle weakness, trembling hands Development of a goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland, causing a swelling at the base of the neck). Bulging eyes Reddish, thickened, and lumpy skin in front of the shins In women, change in frequency or total cessation of menstrual periods You are feverish, agitated, or delirious, and have a rapid pulse. You could be having a thyrotoxic crisis, in which the effects of too much thyroid hormone suddenly become life-threatening.
context: The term "tremor" is used to describe the uncontrollable shaking associated with Essential Tremor, a symptom that can be caused by many different factors and diseases -- including Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, fatigue after exercise, extreme emotional distress, brain tumors, some prescription drugs, metabolic abnormalities, and alcohol or drug withdrawal. Tremors can be classified as those that occur when: A person is moving (action tremor) A person is not moving (rest tremor) A person attempts to maintain posture against gravity (postural tremor), as in holding arms out in front of his/her body Essential Tremor is a postural tremor, so symptoms are usually relieved with rest. But as the disorder advances, the tremors of ET may begin to occur when the muscles are relaxed. Uncontrollable tremors that occur for brief periods of time A shaking voice Nodding head Tremors that worsen during periods of emotional stress Tremors that get worse with purposeful movement Tremor lessens with rest Tremors are the only symptom ( Although rare, a person with ET may suffer from balance problems.)
context: Eczema is a condition that makes your skin turn red, scaly, and itchy. Your doctor might call it dermatitis. It can show up in several places on your body, and different types can cause different symptoms. If you have it on your face, it can cause red patches, small bumps, and flaking skin. If you scratch too much, your skin can get darker, thicker, and infected. Doctors don't know exactly what causes eczema, but they think many people are born with a tendency to get it. You can take actions to manage a breakout on your face. Eczema can't be cured, but it does come and go. Several years might pass without a flare-up. With the help of your doctor, you can manage and ease your symptoms when you do have them. Steroid creams. These are a key part of eczema treatment. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help with red, itchy skin. Put it on once or twice a day for several weeks. If that doesn't work well enough, you may need a stronger prescription steroid. Use it only for a short time, though, because it can thin your skin. Calcineurin inhibitors. Your doctor may prescribe these instead of a steroid cream. These creams and ointments block chemicals that can make your eczema flare. They're used particularly to treat eczema on your face, including your eyelids, neck, and skin folds. Check for fungus. Your doctor may prescribe anti-yeast ointments or creams if your eczema is caused by a fungal infection. High levels of one kind of yeast normally found on skin can show up on people with atopic eczema on their heads or necks. Phototherapy (ultraviolet light therapy). This may help if your eczema is moderate to severe and cream medications haven't worked. Keep in mind that using this type of treatment for a long time can raise your odds for skin cancer. Moisturize. The best way to keep your skin from drying out is with thick creams ( Cetaphil, Eucerin) and ointments ( Aquaphor, Vaseline), not with thinner lotions. The best time to do this is right after you wash your face. If ointments are too greasy for your face, try using them only at night. Clean gently. Soap can irritate your skin, but washing with water alone may not be enough, especially if your face is oily. Use a gentle non-soap cleanser instead. Keep an eye on the temperature and humidity. Use only cool -- not hot -- water on your face, and for as little time as possible. Stay away from places that are too hot or activities that make you sweat. They can make you itchy. Air that's either too dry or too humid also can irritate your eczema. Consider the sun. Some people's eczema gets worse in sunlight, while it's the opposite for others.
context: Your doctor may want to examine your vaginal or urethral discharge under a microscope or test your urine. Trichomoniasis occasionally shows up on Pap tests in women with no symptoms. Your safest course is to get tested if you think you may have been exposed to the parasite. Nine out of 10 people with trichomoniasis are cured with a single course of antibiotics. Stubborn cases may require larger doses administered over longer periods of time. It is important that sex partners also be treated because infection can be passed back. Partners should also avoid intercourse until one week after the last dose of antibiotic. The drug most commonly used to fight trichomoniasis is metronidazole ( Flagyl), which comes in tablet form taken by mouth and gel form for vaginal use. If you take Flagyl orally, you may experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or a metallic aftertaste. You can minimize discomfort by taking the drug during or immediately after a meal. Avoid drinking alcohol within 24 hours of taking the medicine. If you do, you may experience severe abdominal pain and vomiting. Your partner should also be treated to reduce risk of reinfection. Get retested after three months to insure you are clear of the infection. Here are ways to prevent trichomoniasis: Use a latex condom when having sex Have a monogamous partner who is not infected Abstain from sexual activity
context: If you're in the early stages of age-related macular degeneration you may not have symptoms. The first sign you may notice is a gradual or sudden change in the quality of your vision or that straight lines appear distorted to you. This may gradually turn into a dramatic loss of your central vision. Other symptoms include: Dark, blurry areas or whiteout that appears in the center of your vision In rare cases, you may have a change in your perception of color For age-related macular degeneration, you should see a doctor called an ophthalmologist. They specialize in eye care and surgery. In general, if you're older than 45 you should get a complete eye exam and then follow-up exams every 2 to 4 years. If you have age-related macular degeneration, check your vision every day and let your doctor know if you notice any changes. Keep in mind that vision problems could also be signs of another condition besides macular degeneration. Work with your doctor to get the right treatment for you.
context: The urea breath test is used to detect Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori), a type of bacteria that may infect the stomach and is a main cause of ulcers in both the stomach and duodenum (the first part of the small intestine). H. pylori produces an enzyme called urease, which breaks urea down into ammonia and carbon dioxide. During the test, a tablet containing urea is swallowed and the amount of exhaled carbon dioxide is measured. This indicates the presence of H. pylori in the stomach. To prepare for the urea breath test, follow these guidelines: Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, have a lung or heart condition or any other disease, or if you are allergic to any medications. Do not take any antibiotics for at least 4 weeks before the test. Do not take any proton pump inhibitors ( Prilosec, Prevacid, Aciphex, Nexium, Protonix) or Pepto- Bismol for at least 2 weeks before the test. Take only the medications approved by your doctor the day of the procedure. Take them only with a small sip of water if it is within four hours of the procedure. Do not discontinue any medication without first consulting with your primary or referring doctor. Do not eat or drink anything (including water) for four hours before the procedure. During the urea breath test: A health care provider will explain the procedure, which lasts about 40 to 60 minutes, and answer any questions you may have. Breath samples will be taken. After the urea breath test: Your breath samples are sent to a lab where they are tested. You may resume your normal activities. You may resume your normal diet, unless you are scheduled for other tests that require dietary restrictions. Urea breath test results are usually available two days after the test is completed.
context: Cavernous sinus thrombosis is a very rare, life-threatening condition that can affect adults and children. In cavernous sinus thrombosis, a blood clot blocks a vein that runs through a hollow space underneath the brain and behind the eye sockets. These veins carry blood from the face and head back to the heart. The cause of cavernous sinus thrombosis is usually an infection. But other factors may play a role. Cavernous sinus thrombosis is a serious condition. It causes death in up to 30% of cases. Symptoms of cavernous sinus thrombosis may include: Severe headache often accompanied by tearing Swelling, redness, or irritation around one or both eyes Drooping eyelids Inability to move the eye High fever Pain or numbness around the face or eyes Fatigue Vision loss or double vision Seizures Altered mental status that can range from confusion to coma Double vision and seizures are rare. Cavernous sinus thrombosis is typically caused by an infection that has spread beyond the face, sinuses, or teeth. Less commonly, infections of the ears or eyes may cause cavernous sinus thrombosis. To contain the infection, the body's immune system creates a clot to prevent bacteria or other pathogens from spreading. The clot increases pressure inside the brain. This pressure can damage the brain and may ultimately cause death. Rarely, cavernous sinus thrombosis may also be caused by a severe blow to the head. Cavernous sinus thrombosis is more common in people who take certain medications such as oral contraceptives or who have underlying health conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or cancer that may increase their risk for blood clots. Doctors may order brain scans, including CT and MRI scans, to look for cavernous sinus thrombosis. They may also test blood or spinal fluid to check for signs of infection. Doctors treat cavernous sinus thrombosis with high-dose antibiotics. These are usually given though an IV drip. Corticosteroid medications may also be used to reduce swelling. Blood thinners are sometimes given. Surgery may be needed to drain the site of the initial infection.
context: The eczema rash on your child's skin can sometimes be associated with allergies, hay fever, and asthma. There are things you can do to soothe the itch and maybe cut the chance of having allergies. Doctors used to think eczema was just a sign of an allergic reaction -- your body overreacting to a harmless allergen, like pollen or dander. Now, most agree that eczema is actually a problem with the outer layer of your skin. Instead of working as a barrier, your skin is "leaky" and lets in germs, irritants, or allergens. Most experts don't believe that eczema is purely allergic. Still, they know it's clearly connected to allergic conditions like food allergies, hay fever, and asthma. Up to 80% of kids with eczema get hay fever or asthma later in childhood. Thirty-five percent of adults with asthma or nasal allergies had eczema when they were kids. If a mom has allergies, there's almost a 1 in 3 chance her baby will have eczema. Thirty-seven percent of kids with moderate to severe eczema also have food allergies. For some kids, eczema and allergies come in a specific order as they get older. It starts with eczema, then food allergies, asthma, then hay fever. It's called the allergic march. But just because your child has eczema doesn't mean she'll get the above things. It just means there's a higher risk of it happening. What makes the chances go up? When it starts. Kids who get eczema at a young age may be more likely to have allergies or asthma later. How severe it is. Children with worse eczema symptoms may have higher odds of getting allergies or asthma. There are some things you can do that might lower your child's chances of worsening eczema, asthma, or allergies. The evidence isn't clear, so talk to your doctor or your pediatrician. Depending on the situation, he might recommend: Breastfeeding. There's some evidence that doing this for the first 6 to 12 months of your child's life may lower her chance of having allergies or asthma later. Diet changes. If your baby has a high risk of allergies, some doctors recommend changes in diet. You might hold off on solid foods until your baby is at least 6 months old. Treating your child's eczema is key, too. To keep your child's eczema under control: Get allergy testing. If you can pin the problem on a specific thing, you can figure out ways to avoid it. Use a moisturizer. Go for thick creams and ointments that stop skin from drying out. Keep fingernails short. Your child will do less damage to their skin when they scratch. Avoid irritants. Always use unscented soap and laundry detergent. Stay away from cigarette smoke, too. Watch for problems. If your child's eczema seems to be getting worse, or he develops allergy symptoms like congestion or a runny nose, see a doctor. The sooner you get treatment, the better.
context: Medicines that make your blood vessels get wider are called vasodilators. They're used to treat heart failure and control high blood pressure because they cause your blood vessels to relax so that all-important fluid can flow more easily through your body. Examples of vasodilators include: Apresoline Dilatrate- SR Imdur Ismo Isordil Sorbitrate Follow the label to find out how often you should take them. Make it at evenly spaced times, with meals, while you are awake. The number of doses you take each day, the time between doses, and how long you'll need to take them will depend on your condition. Headache ; rapid, irregular, or pounding heartbeat; numbness or tingling of the fingers or toes; lightheadedness or passing out; loss of appetite; and diarrhea : Your doctor probably will prescribe more medicine to control these. If they linger or are severe, talk to your doctor. Upset stomach , flushing of face or neck: Call your doctor if these side effects hang around or get serious. If you get any of these, contact your doctor right away: Fever Joint or chest pain Sore throat Skin rash (especially on the face) Unusual bleeding or bruising Weight gain Swelling of the ankles While taking them, have your blood pressure checked regularly. Keep all appointments with your medical team so they can see if the medicine is working. Don't drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you. Do not take vasodilators if you are taking medication for erectile dysfunction (such as Viagra), as your blood pressure can drop dangerously and lead to death.
context: You can manage your diabetes whether you're at home, work, or traveling, by taking appropriate steps. Here are a few diabetes care strategies for special situations. Because a cold or flu can cause your blood sugar level to rise, it's important to have a sick day plan as part of your diabetes management. When you are ill, make sure you do the following: Check your blood sugar every four hours (call your doctor if they are consistently elevated). Your doctor may ask you to take more insulin. Drink plenty of fluids. Check for ketones if your blood sugars are above 240 mg/d L (or as your doctor recommends). If ketones are found in your urine in mild to moderate levels or if they continue elevated for more than 12 hours, call your doctor. Check your temperature regularly. Don't stop taking your insulin, even if you cannot eat solid foods. People with type 2 diabetes who are on oral drugs may need to stop taking their medications when sick. Always check with your doctor to see what's best for your situation. Call your doctor if your blood sugar stays higher than 180 mg/d L or lower than 70 mg/d L, you have abdominal pain or vomiting and diarrhea, or have a fever for more than one day. For more detail, see Web MD's article Diabetes: Managing Sick Days. For people with diabetes, traveling requires planning. Not only will you have different meal patterns and activity levels, but if you travel abroad, the time zones can affect your blood sugar levels and insulin needs. Read some tips to help make your traveling easier as you prepare ahead of time with extra supplies and prescriptions. For more detail, see Web MD's article Diabetes: Tips on Traveling. Holiday eating is difficult for most people with chronic health problems. If you have diabetes, you need to plan and prioritize the foods you enjoy so you don't feel deprived. By learning some simple steps to help you navigate the holiday buffet table safely, you can keep your blood sugar at healthy levels and enjoy the food and friendships during the holidays. For more detail, see Web MD's article Healthy Holiday Eating for Diabetes.
context: Sexually transmitted diseases ( STDs) are serious business. But if you've been told you have syphilis, there's both good and bad news. First, the bad news: If you allow the disease to go untreated for several years, it can damage your heart, blood vessels, brain, and nervous system. Syphilis can cause blindness or paralysis. It increases your chances of getting and spreading HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Over time, it can damage your organs and even lead to death. And, of course, if you're not treated, you'll likely spread the STD to your sexual partner. The good news: It's easily treated and curable in its early stages. The recommended treatment at all stages of this disease is the antibiotic penicillin. If you've been infected for less than a year, you may need just one injection of penicillin to be cured. But you may need more doses if you've had syphilis for more than a year. There are no over-the-counter medications or home remedies that will cure syphilis -- only antibiotics can do that. Yes. If you're expecting, it's especially important to seek treatment because you could pass the disease on to your fetus or newborn. Again, your doctor will give you penicillin. If you're allergic to it, your doctor will have you go through a special process to enable you to take the antibiotic. If you do spread the STD to your fetus or newborn, it can be very serious and lead to: Stillbirth (the baby is born dead) Birth defects Infant death Cataracts Deafness Seizures After getting a penicillin injection or taking other antibiotics, you may experience: Fever Headaches Joint or muscle pain All of the above, plus nausea and chills If you do have side effects, they typically only last about 24 hours. Once you've completed your treatment, the antibiotics will kill the bacteria that cause syphilis and prevent any additional problems from occurring because of that particular case. But it's important to understand that the treatment can't reverse or heal damage that you've already experienced. Make sure you take all of your medication (pills or additional injections), even if your symptoms go away during treatment. Your doctor will likely order blood tests or exams to make sure you're responding to the antibiotics as expected. He may ask you to talk with your sex partners so they may get tested and treated if needed. And, he'll advise you to be tested for HIV and avoid all sexual contact until blood tests confirm you're cured. And remember that getting treatment doesn't mean you can't get syphilis again or spread it at a later time. The only way to do that is to avoid having unsafe sex. When you do have sex, always use condoms.
context: Novantrone is a drug that works by suppressing the immune system to lessen its attack on the myelin sheath that surrounds nerves. It can slow increases in disability and reduce the relapse rate in people with worsening forms of relapsing-remitting, progressive-relapsing, and secondary-progressive MS. Novantrone also reduces the number of new lesions in the brain as seen on MRI. Novantrone is administered directly into a vein through an intravenous ( IV) drip. The treatment may take place at a treatment center every three months. Before Novantrone treatment begins, the following tests will be given: Blood tests (blood cell counts and liver function tests). Electrocardiogram ( EKG or ECG). Echocardiogram heart test (to determine the strength of your heart muscle). Height and weight. Education session. You will learn about pre-treatment and post-treatment medication to control nausea, when to get blood tests, and continuing treatment. Before starting Novantrone, tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions: Dental disease Gout Heart disease* Infection (especially a viral infection such as chicken pox or herpes) Liver disease Recent radiation therapy* Allergies Pregnant or trying to get pregnant Breastfeeding Unusual or unexpected bleeding Have received chemotherapy* Your neurologist will discuss the potential benefits and risks of Novantrone with you and your family. If you have any concerns or questions, discuss them with your doctor. * Patients who have or have had heart disease or cancer treatment should not take Novantrone. Serious side affects could result. Your doctor should thoroughly check for warning signs before beginning your treatment with Novantrone. Plan to be at the treatment center about two hours to get Novantrone. During this time you will be given the drug through an IV drip. Wear comfortable, warm clothes. Your nurse will check your blood pressure, pulse, and weight before treatment and will review your pre-treatment test results. Bring something to occupy your time, such as a book. Because Novantrone suppresses your immune system (the body's system for fighting illness), you will have an increased risk of infection after treatment. It's important to avoid contact with people who are sick. You should avoid being vaccinated with a live vaccine while being treated with this drug. Neither you nor anyone in your household should take the oral polio vaccine. Call your doctor immediately if you have any of the following symptoms: Fever Chills Sore throat or cough Sores on lips or in mouth Shortness of breath Stomach pain Vomiting Diarrhea Painful or difficult urination Uneven or rapid heartbeat Swollen feet or ankles Unusual bleeding or bruising Pain, swelling, redness, or irritation at the injection site In addition to the possible side effects listed above, other side effects that often go away as your body adjusts to Novantrone include: A blue-green color of urine for 24 hours after receiving Novantrone. Mild or moderate nausea. Menstrual irregularities in women. Hair loss that may be mild to moderate (hair will usually grow back after treatment is discontinued).
context: Central pain syndrome is a neurological condition caused by a dysfunction that specifically affects the central nervous system ( CNS), which includes the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. The disorder can occur in people who have -- or who have experienced -- strokes, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, brain tumors, limb amputations, brain injuries, or spinal cord injuries. It may develop months or years after injury or damage to the CNS. Central pain syndrome is characterized by a mixture of pain sensations, the most prominent being a constant burning. The steady burning sensation is sometimes increased by light touch. Pain also increases in the presence of temperature changes, most often cold temperatures. A loss of sensation can occur in affected areas, most prominently on distant parts of the body, such as the hands and feet. There may be brief, intolerable bursts of sharp pain on occasion. Pain medications often provide little or no relief for those affected by central pain syndrome. However, some antidepressants and anticonvulsants can be useful in treating central pain syndrome.
context: Bicarbonate is a form of carbon dioxide ( CO2), a gas waste left when your body burns food for energy. Bicarbonate belongs to a group of electrolytes, which help keep your body hydrated and make sure your blood has the right amount of acidity. Too much or too little bicarbonate can be a sign of a number of conditions, including diarrhea, liver failure, kidney disease, and anorexia. A bicarbonate test measures how much carbon dioxide is in your blood. It's usually part of a larger electrolyte test that tells your doctor how much sodium, potassium, and chloride is in your body. They may do this test as part of a regular checkup, or to try to find out why you don't feel well. Your doctor might check the CO2 levels in your blood if you have: Vomiting or diarrhea that won't go away Trouble breathing Weakness or tiredness If you're being treated for liver, lung, or digestive conditions, your doctor might check your bicarbonate levels regularly to see if your therapy or medication is working. A doctor or nurse will take a sample of your blood from your arm with a needle. Let your doctor know if you take any medications or supplements, because they can affect the results. So can eating grapefruits, tangerines, and other fruits high in acid. The test uses only the fluid in your blood, not the blood cells or the platelets that help your blood clot. A lab technician will add acid to the liquid to unlock carbon dioxide from the bicarbonate. The amount of bicarbonate is measured by how fast the sample's acidity changes. Your test measures how many millimoles of carbon dioxide is in a liter, or about a quart, of fluid (mmol/ L). A normal result is between 23 and 29 mmol/ L. A low CO2 level can be a sign of several conditions, including: Kidney disease Diabetic ketoacidosis, which happens when your body's blood acid level goes up because it doesn't have enough insulin to digest sugars Metabolic acidosis, which means your body makes too much acid Addison's disease, a rare condition that affects the hormone-producing adrenal glands Ethylene glycol poisoning. This sweet-tasting chemical is in antifreeze, detergents, paints, and other household products. Aspirin overdose High CO2 in blood may point to: Lung diseases like COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease Dehydration Anorexia Adrenal gland problems, such as Cushing's syndrome or Conn's syndrome
context: General recommendations are to gradually increase your activity to tolerance as soon as possible. Bed rest is usually not advised for more than a day or two. Stretching or activities that place additional strain on the back are also discouraged. Sleeping with a pillow between the knees while lying on one side may increase comfort. Some doctors recommend lying on your back with a pillow under your knees. No specific back exercises have been found that improve pain or increase functional ability in people with acute back pain. Exercise, however, may be useful for people with chronic back pain to help them return to normal activities and work. Nonprescription medications may provide relief from pain. Ibuprofen ( Advil, Nuprin, Motrin) or naproxen ( Aleve) are excellent medications for the short-term treatment of low back pain. Because of the risk of ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding, talk with your doctor before using these medications, especially if you have any medical problems or take any other medicines. Acetaminophen can also be effective in relieving pain. Topical agents such as âdeep heating rubsâ may provide relief for some people. Some people seem to benefit from the use of ice or heat. Take care: Do not use a heating pad on "high" or place ice directly on the skin. Most experts agree that prolonged bed rest is associated with a longer recovery period. Further, people on bed rest are more likely to develop depression, blood clots in the legs, and decreased muscle tone. Very few experts recommend more than a 48-hour period of decreased activity or bed rest. In other words, get up and get moving to the extent you can. Initial treatment of low back pain is based on the assumption that the pain in about 90% of people will go away on its own in about a month. Many different treatment options are available. Some of them have been proven to work. Others are of more questionable use. For any given person, it is not known if a particular therapy will provide benefit until it is tried. Your doctor may try treatments known to be helpful in the past. If back pain is associated with sudden loss of bladder or bowel control, weakness, or paralysis it is important to seek immediate medical attention.
context: Do your immune system a favor and pack more fruits and vegetables on your plate. They're loaded with nutrients, called antioxidants, that are good for you. Add more fruits and vegetables of any kind to your diet. It'll help your health. Some foods are higher in antioxidants than others, though. The three major antioxidant vitamins are beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin E. You'll find them in colorful fruits and vegetables, especially those with purple, blue, red, orange, and yellow hues. Beta-carotene and other carotenoids: apricots, asparagus, beets, broccoli, cantaloupe, carrots, corn, green peppers, kale, mangoes, turnip and collard greens, nectarines, peaches, pink grapefruit, pumpkin, squash, spinach, sweet potato, tangerines, tomatoes, and watermelon Vitamin C: berries, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cantaloupe, cauliflower, grapefruit, honeydew, kale, kiwi, mango, nectarine, orange, papaya, snow peas, sweet potato, strawberries, tomatoes, and red, green, or yellow peppers Vitamin E: broccoli (boiled), avocado, chard, mustard and turnip greens, mangoes, nuts, papaya, pumpkin, red peppers, spinach (boiled), and sunflower seeds These foods are also rich in antioxidants: Prunes Apples Raisins Plums Red grapes Alfalfa sprouts Onions Eggplant Beans Other antioxidants that can help keep you healthy include: Zinc: oysters, red meat, poultry, beans, nuts, seafood, whole grains, some fortified cereals (check the ingredients to see if zinc has been added), and dairy products Selenium : Brazil nuts, tuna, beef, poultry, fortified breads, and other grain products Cooking tip: To get the biggest benefits of antioxidants, eat these foods raw or lightly steamed. Don't overcook or boil them. Foods have many different nutrients in them, and they work together. Supplements don't have that same mix. If you can't get enough fruits and vegetables in your diet, you may want to consider taking a multivitamin with minerals. But chances are, you can get what you need from your diet. If you want to check that you're on track, ask your doctor or a dietitian.
context: Antioxidants you get from eating certain foods are a big part of a heart-healthy lifestyle. You'll get plenty from fruits, veggies, whole grains, beans, legumes, and nuts. You'll also get fiber and great taste. That's a win-win plan. If you're thinking about taking supplements, keep in mind they don't offer the same benefits as the antioxidants you get from food. The U. S. Preventive Services Task Force ( USPSTF) says there's not enough evidence to show that multivitamins or mineral supplements can lower the odds of getting heart disease. Research doesn't show that vitamin E supplements have benefits against heart disease. But there's also no evidence that they're risky. You can get the same vitamin in foods such as nuts, leafy greens, seed oils, and fortified cereals. There's also no proof that beta-carotene supplements can fight heart disease. Some studies show that people who smoke or drink heavily and take beta-carotene supplements are actually more likely to get it. The USPSTF recommends against taking beta-carotene or vitamin E supplements if your goal is to prevent heart disease. Remember, the recommendation only applies to supplements. According to the USPSTF, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fat-free and low-fat dairy products, and seafood is linked to a lower risk of heart disease. You can get beta-carotene from fruits and vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes.
context: Occupational therapy can help people with multiple sclerosis ( MS) stay active in daily life. It can teach you how to improve skills, find new ways to complete tasks, or learn how to use handy equipment. That can make your everyday life easier and more enjoyable. Not everyone with MS will need this kind of therapy, but you might consider it if your symptoms make it hard to: Be productive at home, work, or school Have fun, including enjoying your hobbies and finding new ways to spend time Take care of yourself, including dressing, bathing, grooming, and eating In general, an occupational therapist can help you find easier ways to: Write Cook and do chores at home Eat Do your job Have fun and enjoy your hobbies Bathe and use the toilet Get dressed and groom yourself She also can give you information on how to adjust your surroundings to suit your needs. She might suggest ways to alter your home, your car, or your computer to make them easier to use. She can also teach you how to use a cane, wheelchair, and other devices to help you get around. Ask your doctor to refer you to an occupational therapist. Insurance companies will usually pay for the service if the recommendation comes from your doctor.
context: Asthma can come on suddenly, or its symptoms can be more chronic. The most common symptoms of asthma include: Coughing, especially at night or during exercise Wheezing or losing your breath easily Tightness in the chest Runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, itchy or sore throat Fatigue and weakness, especially during exercise Trouble sleeping Asthma triggers may include a common cold, exercise, cold air, and allergens. What should you do if you have any of these asthma warning signs? Ideally, you and your doctor should have already worked out an asthma action plan. This is a simple set of steps to follow when you have asthma symptoms. Your asthma action plan may include measuring your breathing capacity with a device called a spirometer and taking a dose of quick relief inhaler medication. Your doctor may also want you to change the dose of your daily maintenance therapy to help control your asthma. Some warning signs of asthma are more serious. They include: Symptoms that keep getting worse, even with treatment Difficulty catching your breath or talking Flaring your nostrils as you breathe Sucking in your chest or stomach with each breath Difficulty walking A bluish or grayish tinge to your lips or fingernails If you have any of these asthma symptoms, call 911. Some people's asthma is triggered by allergies. For example, hay fever is a risk factor for developing asthma. Some triggers can make asthma worse, and in some cases a serious type of allergic reaction called anaphylaxis can occur. Anaphylaxis can be caused by food allergies, latex allergies, medication allergies, or allergies to insect stings. Most allergic reactions are localized to one area of your body. An allergic reaction in your skin leads to hives. An allergic reaction in your nose leads to congestion. But in anaphylaxis, many different organs of your body are affected at once. The results are rapid and life-threatening. Signs of anaphylaxis are: Hives and itchiness Vomiting Diarrhea Pain in the abdomen Severe swelling in the throat that makes it hard to swallow or breathe; this can lead to stridor, or wheezing. Confusion Slurred speech Fast or weak pulse Dizziness (caused by a drop in blood pressure) Unconsciousness Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. Keep in mind that anaphylaxis often develops quickly after exposure to the allergen -- possibly within minutes. If you know you're at risk for anaphylaxis, your doctor should have prescribed an epinephrine injection kit for emergencies (usually two pens). Always carry it with you and do not hesitate to use it to inject yourself, even if you are unsure that your symptoms are allergy related. Of course, the list of asthma symptoms above is only a general guide. Everyone's case is different, and you may have other asthma warning signs distinct to you. So, pay attention to your asthma triggers and symptoms. You may notice a pattern that can help guide you. Knowing your personal triggers of asthma allows you to take action early, reducing the severity of your asthma attacks -- or preventing asthma attacks altogether.
context: It can itch, burn, sting, peel, crack, and blister. Foot fungus is gross. But it's everywhere -- even in the gym on the Space Station. Read on to learn about what it is and how to prevent it. It's a skin infection caused by mold-like germs that live in dead cells on your skin, hair, and nails. There are more than 80 types of fungi on your feet. That's way more than on other parts of the body, even the palms of your hands. But while some of these fungi may get a bad rap, you can relax. Most aren't harmful. Athlete's foot is the most common type of foot fungus. Up to 25% of people will get this itchy, even painful infection at some point. It usually grows between the toes but can spread to the soles and toenails. If you scratch your foot and then touch other parts of your body, like your armpits or groin, it can spread there, too. In dark, warm, moist places, like your shoes. That's why they like your feet. Each foot has over 250,000 sweat glands. To stop the spread of foot fungus, dry your feet after they get wet. Let your shoes air out before you wear them again. Fungi enter your body through tiny cracks in your skin. You can catch them by touching someone who has them. You can also catch fungi if your bare feet come in contact with them. This might happen when you walk barefoot in warm, moist areas, like a locker room or public pool. Not as much as you might think. Foot fungus loves wet places, but you might have a better chance of catching it if you don't wash or dry your feet well, or don't change your socks and shoes often. Yes. Foot fungus can linger on sheets, towels, or common objects. Don't share towels, and keep surfaces clean. Wash your feet with soap and water at least once each day and keep them dry. Nowhere. You can re-infect yourself by walking barefoot at home -- even in your own shower and on your own carpets. Always wear shoes in public places. You never know what germs or fungi lurk there. If you're using a public pool or shower, wear sandals or shower shoes. Yes, but be careful. Never assume the spa cleans its tools after each client. Take your own to your appointment. That's the only way to make sure you don't catch -- or spread -- a pesky foot fungus in the nail salon.
context: Occasional snoring is usually not very serious; mostly, it's a nuisance for your bed partner. However, if you are a habitual snorer, it is a good idea to get checked out by a doctor to make sure a more serious problem isn't causing your snoring. During the doctor's visit, the doctor will ask about your symptoms and take a complete medical history. He or she will also perform a general physical exam, paying particular attention to your nose and throat. Your weight and blood pressure will be evaluated, and your blood may be tested for thyroid function. Your doctor may suggest you see an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor). These doctors are better equipped to examine your nasal passages for any blockages. Additionally, you may be referred to a sleep lab for further testing. The overnight sleep test allows researchers to monitor multiple bodily functions while you sleep.
context: Age has an effect on your eyes just like it does on your joints and other parts of your body. When you reach your 40s, the natural internal lenses in your eyes become less flexible. They can't focus as easily from near to far vision like they could when you were younger. As your eyes get less flexible, your close vision gets worse. It's a condition called presbyopia, and it may make you wonder if you need reading glasses. Here are a few signs that you do: When you hold books and other reading materials up close, they look blurry. You have to hold them farther away to read them. You have trouble seeing smaller print in dim light. Your eyes hurt when you try to read, sew, or do other close work. You get a headache when you try to read. If you decide to try a pair of inexpensive "readers" you see at drug stores, look for the number on the tag that's on them. Reading glass power is measured in units called diopters. The lowest strength is usually 1.00 diopters. Glasses go up in strength by factors of .25 (1.50, 1.75, 2.00). The strongest glasses are 4.00 diopters. Test out a few to see which one works best. Hold a book or magazine 14 to 16 inches away from your face, and see if the glasses make the print easier to read. You might need two different strengths -- one pair for very close reading and one for middle distances like your computer screen. Choose the weakest (lowest number) glasses that will work for you. Keep in mind that these glasses might not fit you as well as prescription glasses. They also don't correct astigmatism (a common condition that causes blurred vision), and they can't be adjusted if you need a different strength in each eye. Also, your vision can change as you get older. You might need to buy a stronger pair of reading glasses in a year or two. If your close vision is blurry, make an appointment with your eye doctor for an exam. He can recommend a reading glass strength or write a prescription based on your exam. And it's always a good idea to get checked for other eye issues. If you need glasses for distance vision as well, you might want to consider bifocals, trifocals, or progressive lenses. Bifocals help you see both close up and far away. Trifocals and progressive lenses adjust for close, middle, and distance viewing. See your eye doctor right away if: You have any sudden or drastic changes in your vision Everything looks blurry You have pain in your eyes You see flashes of light or halos around lights You have double vision The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that you get a baseline eye exam at age 40. This is when many vision problems, including presbyopia, may start. After that, you should get exams: Every 1 to 3 years between ages 55 and 64 Every 1 to 2 years starting at age 65
context: Dry eyes -- feeling gritty and sore, itching, or burning -- can be related to problems with your thyroid gland. Sometimes they may be the first sign of a thyroid disease. There are two main thyroid disorders. One is Graves' disease, where your thyroid makes too many hormones (hyperthyroidism). The other is Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which causes low levels of hormones (hypothyroidism). Both happen when your immune system makes a mistake and attacks your thyroid gland instead of fighting infections. Because certain proteins in your eyes are similar to thyroid tissue, your immune system may attack them, too. Eye problems are more common for people with Graves' disease, but some people with Hashimoto's may also get them. Thyroid disorders often run in families. If you have dry eyes and a family member with Graves' or Hashimoto's disease, you may want to get checked, too. Treating thyroid disorders will help prevent eye damage and other health problems. Your eyes need moisture. It helps them work the way they're supposed to and keeps them feeling healthy. Thyroid eye disease steals that moisture. Your eyes don't close completely. Graves' disease can affect the muscles around your eyes. Your upper lid may pull up while your lower lid pulls down. Or stuff may build up behind your eye, pushing it out from its socket. These will make it hard to close your eyes tight, so moisture evaporates too fast. Not enough tears. Each time you blink, tears spread across the surface of your eyes, keeping them clear and moist. With a thyroid eye disease, you may not make enough tears. Or the tears you make may not work as well as they should. Not enough oil. Tears are a mix of water, oil, and mucus. The oil is made by glands in your eyelids and helps hold water on the surface of your eyes. Without enough oil, your tears evaporate too fast. Unfortunately, treating your thyroid won't cure dry eyes. Even though they have the same cause, they're separate problems. Many people get relief using artificial tears during the day and eye ointments at night. But eye drops that help prevent redness can make dryness worse. If your eyelids don't close tight, wearing an eye mask while you sleep can help hold the moisture on your eyes. Other ways to help keep your eyes moist: Don't smoke. Avoid sitting next to air conditioners and heaters. Use a humidifier in your bedroom at night. Take frequent screen breaks. Blink often. Eat more fish, or ask your doctor about taking fish oil pills. Omega-3 fatty acids in salmon, tuna, and sardines help block inflammation and may make your eyes feel better.