VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: There are lots of ways to treat thyroid cancer. The treatment you get will depend on the type and stage of the cancer. It also depends on your age, general health, and other things that are unique to you. Surgery is the most widely used method to get rid of thyroid cancer. If the entire thyroid gland is removed, It's called a thyroidectomy. If part of your thyroid gland is removed, the procedure is called a lobectomy. Your surgery may also include removing lymph nodes in the neck area, and tissue around the thyroid gland. It will depend on the size and location of the tumor. The thyroid gland and most thyroid cancers absorb iodine. Radioactive iodine ( RAI) ablation is used to destroy any thyroid tissue that's left after a thyroidectomy. The iodine goes to the thyroid tissue and the radiation destroys it. It may also be used for cancer that spreads to nearby lymph nodes, spreads to other parts of the body, or returns. The level of radiation in this treatment is far higher than what is used in a radioiodine scan. You may have a special diet that is low in iodine for 1 or 2 weeks before you get the treatment. If you take thyroid hormone pills, you may have to stop taking them for a while. If all of your thyroid gland was removed, you'll take thyroid hormone pills. The pills also help stop leftover cancer cells from growing and returning. They do this by lowering the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone ( TSH). TSH is made by your pituitary gland. It tells your thyroid gland to make thyroid hormones. But it also encourages growth of the cancer. These treatments are mostly used for thyroid cancers that are less common or more advanced: External beam radiation, or X-ray therapy, uses radiation to destroy cancer cells. It is very carefully delivered to protect the rest of your body as much as possible. You'll get radiation therapy over several weeks. Chemotherapy, or chemo, means using chemicals for treatment. For cancer, the medicines attack and kill fast-growing cells, like cancer cells. You may get pills, shots, or intravenous ( IV) chemo. It has side effects, but your doctor will help you to manage them. Targeted therapy is a newer treatment that targets only certain parts of cancer cells, to slow or stop growth. This is normally taken in pill form. Usually, there are fewer side effects than with chemotherapy. If you get a diagnosis of thyroid cancer, your doctor will help you figure out the best treatment. He'll explain the benefits and tell you about the risks.
context: After laser eye surgery, take these precautions to prevent injury or infection: Don't take a shower or wash your hair until the day after. Avoid getting non-sterile water from shower, hair washing, etc. into your eyes during the first few days after surgery. Be careful when you're in the shower or bath. Be sure to keep soap out of your eye when you wash your hair, and watch out for hair spray and shaving lotion. Don't rub your eyes for at least a month. Don't drive until you feel comfortable. Get your doctor's OK first. Wear the eye shield/goggles the doctor gave you while you sleep for the first week. Keep tap water out of your eyes for at least a week. Avoid pools, whirlpools, saunas, and lakes for at least 3 weeks. No eye makeup for at least a week. Toss out partly used products to avoid an infection. Don't get your hair colored or permed for at least 10 days. No exercise for two days. Wear eye protection for at least a month once you start exercise and sports activities again. Your eyes will likely be sensitive to light for a while. Dark suinglasses are helpul. Avoid dirty and dusty environments for 7 days. Bright sunshine may cause scarring, so wear sunglasses on bright days for at least a year. If you have any questions, or if there's pain, a sudden decrease in vision, redness, or discharge from your eye, contact your doctor right away.
context: Parents should investigate any bluish color they spot on their baby's skin. Blue skin means the underlying blood has a blue cast rather than the nice pink color of blood with lots of oxygen in it. Fortunately, in most cases it's quite normal and harmless as long as it's temporary. There are two reasons why the blood under you baby's skin might look blue: The lungs are not getting enough oxygen. Since oxygen is what makes blood turn red, blood cells without oxygen remain blue ("cyanosis"). The underlying blood is moving sluggishly, so the normal veins underneath that carry blue, oxygen-poor blood back to the heart are more noticeable. You can tell if there is insufficient oxygen in the blood by checking the color of the skin all over your baby's body. If there is a bluish cast everywhere (especially in areas with a lot of blood flow, like the lips, tongue, and vagina or scrotum), this could mean all of the blood is blue and there could be a problem with the heart or lungs. More commonly, it's only certain areas -- like the hands, feet, or area around the mouth -- that look blue some of the time. This is usually perfectly normal. If you are concerned about a blue tinge to your baby's skin, check his entire body. An off-and-on blue cast to the hands and feet, with pink skin elsewhere, is not a sign of a problem, but rather just a little bit of immaturity of the circulatory system, which will go away over time. If there is a bluish cast over the entire body, the blood may be lacking sufficient oxygen. Blue primarily around the lips may also indicate low blood oxygen. This is very worrisome and you should seek medical attention immediately. It's also concerning if you notice any blueness at all when it seem like your baby might be having trouble breathing. But you don't need to worry if your baby's hands and feet turn blue for a short period of time when the rest of the body is pink and your baby is breathing normally.
context: When you have chronic (long-lasting) constipation, you need to find out what's causing it. It could be a medical condition or even medications that you take that are backing you up. But it could also be that your body's waste disposal system isn't working as it should. This is called functional or primary constipation. It's constipation not caused by something else, and it's more common in young children and older adults. There are 3 different types: Normal transit constipation: This is the most common. When you have this, muscles in your colon squeeze and relax the way they should: not too fast and not too slow. Your waste moves at the right speed. Still, your stool may be hard and difficult to pass. You may have belly pain or bloating, too. It usually gets better by eating more fiber-rich foods or by using a certain kind of laxative. Slow transit constipation: This means your colon isn't moving waste fast enough. Doctors don't know exactly why this happens. But it could be because your nerves aren't signaling your colon muscles to move the way they should. Signs of this kind of constipation include: Not feeling the urge to go to the bathroom Pooping less than once a week Passing dry, hard stools A bloated or painful belly This type is more common in young women. Doctors aren't sure why. Laxatives and fiber may not work for this type, but behavioral training (biofeedback) may help. Surgery may also be an option. Defecation disorders: It takes coordinated muscle movements in your pelvic floor to move stool out of your body. These muscles, including your anal sphincter, need to relax at the right time for you to poop comfortably. If you have this type of constipation, you may feel the urge to go but have a hard time doing it. It may be painful. You may have this problem if you: Spend a lot of time on the toilet straining and pushing to move your bowels Use your fingers to get stool out or use enemas frequently Laxatives or fiber supplements don't relieve your constipation People with this type often have hemorrhoids, cracks around the anus called fissures, and hard, impacted stools. These problems need treatment because they can make it even more difficult and painful to go. It's not clear what brings this kind of constipation on, but it's often treated with behavioral and relaxation training. You may need special tests to figure out what type of functional constipation you have. They may seem awkward and embarrassing, but medical staff do them all the time and they're over pretty quickly. They'll tell your doctor what he needs to know so he can best treat you.
context: Medicine and physical therapy can strengthen your muscles, prevent stiffness, and improve flexibility when you have multiple sclerosis ( MS). There are also some simple tricks you can try on your own to make them work better. Put yourself in motion. Exercise keeps your muscles flexible and strong. It's a good idea to combine three types of exercise: Strength training. To keep your muscles strong, work them with light weights or exercise bands a couple of times a week. If you get a muscle spasm in the middle of your routine, stop and wait a few minutes for it to relax. Also stop if you feel any pain. Exercise should never hurt. Range of motion. To prevent stiffness, do exercises that take your joints through their full range of motion. For example, lift your arm up and over your head, or bring your leg out to the side and back. Stretching. Do a series of stretches at least twice a week. Pay special attention to muscles that tend to get tight and spasm, like the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. As you stretch, slowly move each muscle into position. Hold the position for up to 1 minute. Then gently release it. You can do these exercises alone, or you can work with a physical therapist who will show you how to do each movement safely and effectively. Exercise as often as you can without tiring yourself out. If the moves take too much effort, try working out in a cool-temperature pool. You'll put less pressure on your joints that way, so you'll use less energy. Rest when you need to. Stay active, but don't overdo it. Balance activity with periods of rest to give your muscles a chance to recover. To help you sleep better at night, try relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing before bed. Massage is another great way to soothe tight muscles so you can sleep. Try a new position. Sometimes you can relieve muscle spasms just by shifting position. To ease spasms in your knees and hips, lie on your stomach. Or turn on your side and put a pillow or rolled-up towel between your knees.
context: There are a number of different treatment options to consider if menopause is disrupting your life. The most common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, mood problems, trouble sleeping, and vaginal dryness. Hormone Therapy. Treatment with estrogen and progesterone, called combination hormone replacement therapy ( HRT), can be prescribed for women who still have their uterus, if they have moderate to severe symptoms of menopause. Estrogen alone is the prescribed regimen for women who have had a hysterectomy (no longer have their uterus). These are the most effective treatments for hot flashes, and can also help with vaginal dryness and mood problems. Hormonal patches, creams, gels, and vaginal rings are alternatives to the traditional pills, depending on the symptoms. Treatment is usually started before age 60 and taken up to 5 years. Some women may not be candidates for HRT. These women include those with breast or uterine (endometrial) cancer, blood clots, liver disease, heart disease stroke, women who may be pregnant, or who have undiagnosed vaginal bleeding. Nonhormonal therapy. If you are unable or do not want to take hormones, there are treatments that your doctor can prescribe to alleviate some of the symptoms of menopause. If you have vaginal dryness without hot flashes, you can try vaginal estrogen. It's a much lower dose of estrogen than the medications used for menopausal symptoms like hot flashes. It comes as a cream, tablet, or ring and is placed in the vagina. Medications originally used as antidepressants may help relieve hot flashes. Yoga, meditation, deep breathing and other relaxation techniques are all ways to reduce the stress of menopause, and some people report great benefit from these practices. Plant based estrogens and herbal products like black cohosh are sold to help hot flashes, but their effectiveness is not proven. Women with a history of breast cancer should avoid them, because of the concern that they may increase the risk of recurrence. Talk to your doctor before taking any of these therapies. Click here for more on alternative therapies. Lifestyle changes. A healthy diet and regular exercise program will go a long way towards minimizing the symptoms of menopause and helping to maintain overall good health. It is also a good idea to finally kick any old, unhealthy habits, such as smoking or drinking too much alcohol. Other interventions that may be helpful are to dress lightly and in layers and avoid potential triggers like caffeine and spicy foods.
context: var s_context; s_context= s_context || {}; s_context['wb.modimp'] = 'vidfloat'; if(webmd.useragent && webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop'){ webmd.ads2.disable Initial Load(); webmd.ads2.disable Ads Init = true; $(function() { webmd.p.pim.increment(); $('.responsive-video-container').insert After('.module-social-share-container'); require(['video2/1/responsive-player/video-loader'], function(video Loader) { video Loader.init({ autoplay: webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop' && ! !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } People often get painless little bumps under their skin, called cysts. Cysts can develop on most parts of the body. Some are found in hair follicles. They can develop for many reasons -- and sometimes for no obvious reason. They are more common in men than in women. Skin cysts don't need treatment most of the time. They're usually painless and nothing to worry about, unless they get sore or infected. But if you have a cyst that bothers you or is embarrassing, you should discuss it with your doctor. Also, let your doctor know about any skin conditions you have so he can check them for signs of a serious problem. A warm, moist cloth on the area might help it drain and heal, but it'll probably come back. ( If it drains, the stuff that comes out will probably smell bad.) Cysts will sometimes go away on their own. Your doctor can easily treat them. Options include: Draining the cyst. The doctor cuts the cyst and pushes out the gunk inside. Cysts can still return after this. Injecting medicine into the cyst to reduce swelling if it's tender, swollen or growing, Removing it by minor surgery to take out the entire cyst wall. This usually keeps them from coming back. Laser removal. It might be tempting, but don't try to pop or drain the cyst yourself. That can cause infection, and the cyst will probably come back. Keep it clean by washing with warm soap and water. Try putting a bathwater-warm washcloth on it for 20 to 30 minutes, three to four times a day, to help soothe it and speed healing. Wrap it in a bandage if it starts to drain and make an appointment with your doctor.
context: Everyone handles cancer in different ways. You may think you have it all under control, but sometimes things get tough and you can feel lonely. Take these simple steps to build a network that will stick with you through the good times and the bad. Join a support group. This can help you manage your feelings by letting you talk and share with people who feel the same way. Members often talk about which treatments worked for them and how they faced challenges. When you talk to other people, you feel like part of a community. You realize you aren't alone and that lots of people are in the same boat. It helps you see that what you're feeling is normal. There are different types of support groups. Some are just for people who have cancer. Others include your main caregiver, often a spouse or other close family member. Family members or children may find one just for them. Let people help. It can be hard to ask people to do things for you, especially if you've always been independent. Your family and friends want to help, but they might not know what to do. If someone says, " What can I do?" have an answer for them. Let people pitch in with everyday chores like cooking, cleaning, and running errands. It can help to have someone come with you to the doctor. Ask a friend to write down important questions, and make sure you ask them. Let someone help keep track of your insurance and appointments. If people want to bring you meals or stop by to visit, let someone keep a schedule. And keep in mind it's OK to say no if you don't feel like having company on a certain day. They'll understand if you decide to just put a meal in the freezer to eat it later. Remember that your friends and family members may not know what you need or even what you want to talk about. They'll probably be happy if you reach out with a quick call or message saying you'd love a certain snack or could use help with a task like walking the dog or doing the laundry. Go online for support. You can do this if you don't want to get together in person or talk to people you know. Online support groups bring people together from all over the world to share what they're going through. These groups might have forums dealing with topics you care about, like chemotherapy or side effects. Do your research. Ask your doctor or other people with cancer for suggestions. Look for groups linked to a cancer center or group like the Cancer Survivors Network from the American Cancer Society.
context: Pelvic inflammatory disease, or PID, is an infection of the organs of a women's reproductive system. They include the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and cervix. It's usually caused by a sexually transmitted infection ( STI), like chlamydia or gonorrhea, and is treated with antibiotics. You might not notice any symptoms of PID early on. But as the infection gets worse, you can have: Pain in your lower belly and pelvis Heavy discharge from your vagina with an unpleasant odor Bleeding between periods Pain during sex Fever and chills Pain when you pee or a hard time going Call your doctor right away if you have any of these. PID can cause serious problems if it's not treated. For example, you might have trouble getting pregnant or have pain in your pelvic area that doesn't go away. In some cases, PID can bring on more intense symptoms. You'll need to go to the emergency room right away if you have: Severe pain in your lower belly Signs of shock, like fainting Vomiting Fever higher than 101 F Some of these also can be signs of other serious medical conditions, like appendicitis or an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that happens in a fallopian tube outside the womb). You would need medical help right away for these as well. Treating a sexually transmitted infection right away can help keep you from getting PID. Symptoms of STI are a lot like those of PID. They include heavy discharge from your vagina with an unpleasant odor, pain when you pee, and bleeding between periods. Call your doctor as soon as you notice any of these to lower your chances of PID.
context: Heartburn, also called acid reflux, is when the muscles of your lower esophagus don't work right. This causes food and acids from the stomach to flow back -- or reflux -- into your esophagus. Things like food and certain medications can aggravate it. To make symptoms easier: Don't go to bed with a full stomach. Eat meals at least 2 to 3 hours before lying down. This will give food time to digest and get out of your stomach. Acid levels will also go down before you put your body in a position where heartburn is more likely. Don't overeat. Eat smaller portions at mealtimes, or try to eat four to five small meals instead of three big ones. Eat slowly. Take time to eat. Put your fork down between bites. Avoid heartburn triggers. Avoid foods and drinks that can bring on heartburn symptoms. For example: Onions Peppermint Chocolate Beverages with caffeine Citrus fruits or juices Tomatoes High-fat and spicy foods A heartburn diary is a good way for you to figure out which foods cause your symptoms. Shed some pounds. If you are overweight, it can help you feel better. Stop smoking. The nicotine in cigarettes can weaken a part of your body called your lower esophageal sphincter. That muscle controls the opening between your esophagus and your stomach. When it's closed, it keeps acid and other things in your stomach from going back up. Avoid alcohol. If you want to unwind after a stressful day, try exercise, walking, meditation, stretching, or deep breathing instead of a drink. Keep a diary or heartburn log. Jot down when your heartburn hits and the specific things you're doing when it comes. Wearing loose-fitting clothes can also help. Raise the head of your bed so that your head and chest are higher than your feet. Put 6-inch blocks under the bedposts at the head of your bed. Don't use piles of pillows. You'll put your head at an angle that can put more pressure on your stomach and make your heartburn worse. Eat earlier. Try not to eat for at least 3 hours before you go to sleep. Time your meals. Wait at least 2 hours after a meal to exercise. If you work out any sooner, you may get heartburn. Drink more water. Have plenty before and during exercise.
context: Holy basil is related to the familiar sweet basil that's used in cooking. Its leaves are pale green and have a somewhat hairy appearance. Holy basil has long been used as a traditional medicine in China and India. Some cultures regard the plant as sacred. Holy basil has a history of use for treating many diseases and conditions however, quality scientific research is needed to show how holy basil may benefit people is needed: The common cold Bronchitis Earache Fever Flu Some evidence of improvement of energy It's also been used to try to treat a range of other health concerns, including: Increased blood circulation Insect bites Kidney problems Skin problems Snake bites Stomach problems In addition, holy basil may be useful: As an antioxidant For protecting the liver For treating lowering blood sugar; in one study, people with diabetes had lower blood sugar while they were taking holy basil. Holy basil leaves, which have a spicy, lemony flavor, are used widely in food in Southeast Asia, such as in Thai stir-fried dishes. Side effects. May causelow blood sugar. Research on animals shows that holy basil may: Cause low blood sugar (animals and humans) Promote bleeding Decrease fertility Risks. Avoid using holy basil if you're allergic or sensitive to it or members of the Lamiaceae (mint) plant family. Side effects of holy basil also include upset stomach. You should be cautious about using holy basil if you: Have low blood sugar Are trying to get pregnant Take anticoagulant (blood-thinning) drugs Women who are pregnant should avoid holy basil, since it might cause the uterus to contract. Interactions. Research on animals suggests that holy basil might change the effect of many medications, including these drugs: Diazepam ( Valium) Pentobarbital ( Nembutal) Scopolamine (sold as generic only) Tell your doctor about any supplements you're taking, even if they're natural. That way, your doctor can check on any potential side effects or interactions with any medications. The U. S. Food and Drug Administration ( FDA) does regulate dietary supplements; however, it treats them like foods rather than medications. Unlike drug manufacturers, the makers of supplements don't have to show their products are safe or effective before selling them on the market.
context: Most forms of multiple sclerosis ( MS) strike women twice as often as men. Primary progressive MS, though, affects men and women in nearly equal numbers. Researchers don't know why it happens, but here's what scientists understand about this type: For people with primary progressive MS, there are no attacks followed by later improvement, as in the more common forms of MS. Symptoms steadily get worse from the time they're diagnosed. The gender differences in this type of the disease seem to vary by age group. In the largest studies done so far, scientists kept tabs on hundreds of men and women with primary progressive MS for decades. They found: Under age 30, equal numbers of men and women had the condition. There were more women than men who got it after age 45. Almost two women for each man were diagnosed with primary progressive MS after age 50 -- still short of the rates in other forms of MS. This type of MS is also unique in how severe its symptoms are. MS in men is usually worse than in women. But large studies of primary progressive MS show: Early on, the symptoms were just as severe and got worse just as fast for men as for women. After about 20 years of living with primary progressive MS, men's disease finally began to "outrun" the women's in terms of how bad their symptoms were. Why the differences? At this point, there are more questions than answers. Sex hormones may be one reason. Scientists are also studying clues in the body chemistry and brains of people with the condition. But research into this form of MS is only beginning. In terms of all types of MS, at least twice as many women as men have the condition. But the ratio may be rising even higher. Some recent estimates place the number at 4 to 1 -- and suggest it is still going up. And ladies are more likely to have their first symptoms at younger ages. Three women for every man got MS before age 20. Multiple sclerosis doesn't hit all women at the same time in life. But it almost always begins before menopause. Symptoms often get worse after childbirth or at the end of a menstrual cycle. When men get MS, it's usually in their 30s or 40s -- just about the time their testosterone levels start to decline. These clues suggest that sex hormones, like estrogen and testosterone, play a role in the disease. It may be the balance of hormones, rather than their actual levels, that's important.
context: Scarlet fever -- also called scarlatina -- is an infection that's easily passed from person to person. Anyone can get it, but it's most common in kids from ages 5 to 15. Scarlet fever gets its name from a bright red, bumpy rash that often covers much of the body. The namesake red rash usually starts out looking like a bad sunburn. It typically starts on your neck and face and then spreads to the chest, the back, and the rest of the body. It's raised and looks a little like sandpaper. It can be itchy, and areas of the rash can turn white when you press on them. When the rash goes away, the skin may peel around the fingertips, toes, and groin. The rash is the most common symptom, but there are other telltale signs that come with the condition. They include: Red streaks. In the folds of skin where creases form, the rash forms red lines. Areas are usually deeper red around armpits, elbows, knees, neck, and groin. Red face. Your face may look flushed, except for your mouth. There may be a pale, white area just around your mouth. " Strawberry" tongue. Early on, your tongue will often look red and bumpy. Other signs of scarlet fever can include: Very red sore throat Fever of 101 F or higher, sometimes with chills Swollen glands in the neck Whitish coating on the tonsils and throat Headache or body aches Nausea, vomiting, or stomach pain Difficulty swallowing Because scarlet fever symptoms can be similar to other conditions, always check with your doctor or pediatrician. He'll do an exam and other tests in order to start the right treatment.
context: Apple cider vinegar is the natural product of fermenting crushed apples. Vinegar has been used as a health tonic for thousands of years for many different ailments. var s_context; s_context= s_context || {}; s_context['wb.modimp'] = 'vidfloat'; if(webmd.useragent && webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop'){ webmd.ads2.disable Initial Load(); webmd.ads2.disable Ads Init = true; $(function() { webmd.p.pim.increment(); $('.responsive-video-container').insert After('.module-social-share-container'); require(['video2/1/responsive-player/video-loader'], function(video Loader) { video Loader.init({ autoplay: webmd.useragent.ua.type === 'desktop' && ! !s_sensitive, chron ID: $('article embeded_module[type=video][align=top]:eq(0)').attr('chronic_id'), continuous Play: true, cp Options: { flyout: true }, display Ads: true, mode: 'in-article', sticky: true }) }); }); } else { $(function(){ $('.responsive-video-container').remove(); }); } Several studies have found that vinegar -- including apple cider vinegar -- may lower blood sugar levels. This could have benefits for people with diabetes. Some types of vinegar have also been shown to make people feel fuller. This could support the traditional use of apple cider vinegar for weight loss. People use apple cider vinegar for many other uses, including vaginitis, general detoxification, skin health, and high blood pressure, though there are no clinical trials examining these conditions to refute or support the traditional use. Animal and laboratory studies have found evidence that apple cider vinegar might help lower cholesterol and blood pressure and slow the growth of some cancer cells. However, this research is only in its early stages. It's too soon to say whether the same results will be seen in people. Because apple cider vinegar is an unproven treatment, there are no official recommendations on how to use it. Some people take 30 grams or more a day of apple cider vinegar mixed in a cup of water or juice. Tablets with 285 milligrams of dehydrated apple cider vinegar are also commonly sold. Apple cider vinegar is itself sold as a food. Side effects. Taking small amounts of apple cider is probably safe. But larger doses, or long-term use, of apple cider vinegar could have risks. Taking apple cider vinegar at full strength could erode the enamel of the teeth and burn the mouth and throat. Throat injury from an apple cider vinegar tablet has also been reported. For someone with diabetes, apple cider vinegar may worsen digestive problems. Risks. Women with osteoporosis should be wary of apple cider vinegar. Used regularly, apple cider vinegar could reduce bone density. Because it can alter insulin levels, people with diabetes should not use apple cider vinegar without telling their doctors first. Interactions. People taking laxatives, diuretics, and medication for heart disease and diabetes should check with a doctor before using apple cider vinegar supplements.
context: If you think you might have a urinary tract infection, you'll tell your doctor about your symptoms and start with a urine test. You might need some other tests, too. A urinalysis checks your urine sample for white blood cells, blood, and bacteria. A urine culture is another test that can find the type of bacteria that caused the infection, which will help your doctor choose an antibiotic to give you. There are two types of UTIs: simple and complicated. Simple UTIs happen in healthy people with normal urinary tracts. Complicated UTIs happen in people with abnormal urinary tracts or when antibiotics cannot treat the bacteria causing the infection. People who get UTIs often usually have complicated ones. If you have complicated UTIs, your doctor may refer you to a urologist for further testing to find out why you are getting UTIs. In this case, you may get tests such as: Blood tests X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or ultrasound to show your urinary tract Cystoscopy, in which your doctor inserts a long, thin instrument into your urethra (the tube that carries urine out of your body) to look inside your bladder Intravenous pyelogram, an X-ray test that uses dye so your doctor can better see your urinary system. This is rarely done now. You wouldn't get those tests if you have a simple UTI and don't tend to get them a lot. If you're pregnant and you have a UTI, be sure to see your doctor promptly before it causes problems with your pregnancy. Bacteria cause most UTIs. If that's the case for you, then you'll need to take antibiotics. Young woman with a simple bladder infection might get an antibiotic prescription that lasts for just a few days. If your symptoms come back, you might get more tests to rule out other problems. You might take antibiotics for a longer time, depending on what caused the infection and how long you've had your UTI, or if you have an infection that won't go away. Men usually have to take antibiotics for weeks if the infection is in their prostate. That's important to do to make sure the infection doesn't cause serious problems. You'll need to take all the pills in your prescription and follow the instructions to take them on time -- even after you start to feel better. If you have questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist. You should also drink lots of water to help wash out the bacteria from your urinary system. If you have pain from your UTI, you might want to take medicine for that -- and try a heating pad, too. If your symptoms do not go away after you take your antibiotics, you may need more testing. If you have bladder pain and pain when you urinate, you may get a bladder anesthetic to curb irritation of the bladder and urethra. Depending on which bladder pain medication you take, it may change the color of your urine to reddish-orange or even blue. It's not likely that you'll need an operation. But you might if your UTI is due to an anatomical problem. Or you could need an operation if a blockage, such as a kidney stone or enlarged prostate, is the cause.
context: If you have pinkeye, or your child has it, you may be tempted to rush to a doctor right away. But that may not be necessary. Allergies, viruses, or bacteria can cause pinkeye, which is also called conjunctivitis. It makes one or both of your eyes red and itchy. The affected eye will drain a lot or have a white or yellowish discharge. The symptoms may last a week or 10 days, maybe longer, but they usually go away without your having to go to the doctor. There are some easy steps you can take to ease the symptoms of pinkeye. Choose a lint-free cloth and soak it in cool water. Wring it out and press it gently to your closed eyelids. Don't press hard, as you don't want to injure your eyes. If you only have pinkeye in one eye, keep the compress away from the other one, or it could get infected. If a warm compress feels better, then use warm water. Don't make it too hot â that could make your pinkeye worse and burn your eyelid skin. Use a compress for a few minutes at a time, several times a day. Make sure no one else uses the cloth. The itching can also be helped with over-the-counter eye drops. Here are some tips: Look for the kind that say âlubricatingâ or âartificial tears.â Avoid eye drops advertised to treat âred eyes.â These drops can mask the true course of the pinkeye. If you have pinkeye that's caused by allergies, try refrigerating the drops. If you wear contact lenses, you should go without them until your pinkeye clears up. You may need to throw away your contact lenses and case, because bacteria or viruses may be living in it and you can reinfect yourself If the problem is allergic conjunctivitis, it's very important to wash clothes and pillowcases often. Showering or bathing before bed might help, too. If you know the source of the allergy, always try to avoid it. If your child has red or swollen eyes, it may or may not be pinkeye. It could be a stye -- which often looks like a pimple or reddish area on the eyelid(not on the eyeball) -- or some other kind of inflammation. It also could be a different type of allergic reaction. If there's no sign of relief after you've tried home remedies for a few days, call your pediatrician or your family's eye doctor. You also should check with a doctor if these are among the symptoms: Fever Pain Changes in vision Take note of when the eye problems and any other symptoms show up. If you have to consult your doctor, he will want to know this. An allergy may cause you to get pinkeye often. Your doctor can give you tests that may find the trigger. If it's something in the house, you can make changes to help prevent pinkeye in the future. If pinkeye has invaded your home, there are steps you should take to help keep it from spreading to everyone else. The two most important things for everyone in your household to remember are: Wash your hands, and often. Try not to touch your eyes. It's also helpful to change towels and pillowcases often, and use hot water when you wash them. Never share towels or pillows with someone who has pinkeye.
context: Your sinuses are air-filled spaces inside your forehead, cheekbones, and behind the bridge of your nose. When they get inflamed -- usually because of an allergic reaction or an infection -- they swell, make more mucus, and the channels that drain them can get blocked. The build-up of pressure in your sinuses causes pain that feels like a headache. You'll feel a deep and constant pain in your cheekbones, forehead, or the bridge of your nose. The pain usually gets stronger when you move your head suddenly or strain. At the same time, you might have other sinus symptoms, such as: A runny nose Feeling of fullness in your ears Fever Swelling in your face Other kinds of recurring headaches, like migraines or tension headaches, are often mistaken for sinus headaches. Because the treatment you need depends on what kind of headache you have, it's important to figure out if your symptoms are caused by your sinuses. If a sinus blockage, such as an infection, really is the cause, you'll likely have a fever. Usually your doctor can tell if your sinuses are blocked based on the symptoms you describe and a physical exam, but in some cases, you may need CT or MRI scans. The goal is usually to relieve your symptoms and treat an infection if you have one. You might take antibiotics, as well as antihistamines or decongestants for a short time. You can also use inhaled nasal decongestants, but only for up to 3 days. Longer use can make your symptoms worse. You can also take pain relievers, or if they don't help, your doctor can prescribe corticosteroids to ease the inflammation in your sinuses. If an allergic reaction causes your sinus flare-ups, you might need a preventive allergy treatment. You can also feel better with simple at-home tricks, such as drinking more fluids, using a humidifier, or saltwater nasal spray. If you take decongestant and pain-relieving medicines too often, you might get medication overuse headaches. It's important to touch base with your doctor if you're using any medication for a long time to relieve your headaches. Decongestants also can raise your blood pressure, so if you have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor before you take one. In rare cases, he may recommend sinus surgery to remove polyps or open up small or constantly swollen sinuses. Ever heard that allergies cause sinus headaches? It's not quite that simple. Allergies can cause sinus congestion, which can make your head hurt. Treatment for your allergies can ease that congestion, but it won't relieve your headache pain. You usually have to treat the two conditions separately. See your doctor to make sure you get the right help.
context: It is not uncommon for men with erectile dysfunction to feel angry, frustrated, sad, or insecure. Such feelings, if not dealt with, can sometimes lead to clinical depression in men with a biological vulnerability to depression. Depression that accompanies ED is treatable. The first step in overcoming depression is to be honest with yourself, your partner, and your doctor. After depression has been brought out into the open, coping with it will be easier and less stressful. Depression is an illness marked by persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness, and a pessimistic outlook. Some of the symptoms of depression include: Low self-esteem Loss of interest in formerly pleasurable activities (such as sex and hobbies) Fatigue Changes in appetite Sleep disturbances Apathy Drug and/or alcohol use Suicidal thoughts Depression affects the way one feels about oneself and life in general. People who are depressed cannot simply "pull themselves together" and get better. Without treatment, symptoms of depression can last indefinitely. Appropriate treatment, however, can help most people who suffer from depression get back on track. If you think you may be depressed, don't suffer in silence. Depression is not a sign of personal weakness. Tell your doctor how you are feeling so that you can start feeling like yourself again. There is no single test that can diagnose depression; however, there are certain patterns that doctors look for in order to make the diagnosis. As a result, your doctor will ask you several questions. Be honest with your answers so that you can receive the care you need. Treatment for depression may include medication, talk therapy, or a combination of both. Antidepressants: Many different drugs, including Prozac, Zoloft, Elavil, and Wellbutrin, are used to treat depression. Some antidepressants can worsen ED, so be honest with your doctor about your condition so that he or she can prescribe an appropriate treatment. Talk therapy: During therapy, a licensed and trained mental health care professional helps you identify and work through issues related to depression. Types of talk therapy include couples therapy, individual therapy, and group therapy.
context: There is no cure for genital herpes. However, some drugs have been effective in reducing the duration and frequency of herpes outbreaks. The decision to use one treatment over another for genital herpes depends on many factors that must be discussed with your health care provider: Have you had a previous outbreak? The first episode of genital herpes is usually the worst and often has other symptoms, like fever and fatigue. Recurrent outbreaks aren't usually as painful and don't last as long. How frequent are the outbreaks? People who have frequent outbreaks should consider suppressive therapy (daily medication) to reduce the number of outbreaks of the disease. What is the status of your immune system? People with genital herpes who have HIV/ AIDS, an organ transplant, leukemia, or are on long-term immune-suppressant drugs are at risk for more severe herpes infections. Elderly people also often have a weakened immune system and should discuss treatment options with their health care provider. Are you pregnant? Women with genital herpes are examined carefully for any symptoms before giving birth. If sores or signs that an outbreak is coming show up at the time of delivery, the baby may be delivered by cesarean section (also called a C-section). You may also be started on herpes medications about a month before your due date in an attempt to prevent any herpes outbreak around the time of labor. Women taking antiviral drugs for herpes -- either daily suppressive therapy or occasional therapy for outbreaks -- should consult their doctor about whether to take the drugs during pregnancy. The answer is not set in stone: You and your doctor have to discuss the risks and benefits to decide what's right for you. Drug Side Effects You May Have... Could Cause Problems for... acyclovir ( Zovirax) stomach upset loss of appetite nauseavomitingdiarrheaheadache dizzinessweakness people with kidney disease pregnant or nursing women famciclovir ( Famvir) headache nausea diarrhea fatigue people with kidney disease pregnant or nursing women valacyclovir ( Valtrex) nauseavomitingheadache loss of appetite weaknessstomach pain dizziness people with kidney disease pregnant or nursing women the elderly
context: By encouraging your baby to smile, you're helping her develop self-esteem. It lets her know that her feelings are important and that she can affect her environment. It's also important for her overall brain development. Here are some tips to coax a grin: Choose a period when your baby is relaxed. A hungry baby isn't inclined to smile. Take your baby in your arms with her face very close to yours. Remember, at this age your baby sees best at 8-12 inches away. Smile widely at her and offer a warm "hello" in that sing-song pitch parents do so well. Your Baby's Development This Week After two tough months of late-night feedings and diaper changes, you're in for a big treat -- a smile from your baby. Sure, you've seen your baby smiling since soon after birth. Often newborns will smile in their sleep. Sometimes a smile in the early weeks of life is simply a sign that your little bundle is passing gas. But starting between 6 and 8 weeks of life, babies develop a "social smile" -- an intentional gesture of warmth meant just for you. This is an important milestone. Your pediatrician will ask you whether you've seen your baby's grin at her two-month well child visit. So be on the lookout. Here's what your baby's smile means at this stage: She's growing up and starting to figure out human behavior. She realizes that smiling back at you gets your attention. Your baby's brain development is advancing and her communication skills are on track. If you're trying to get your baby to smile and can't seem to coax a grin, don't fret. It may take a few attempts. Your baby may smile past you and not look you in the eyes. That's just her way of avoiding stimulation overload and exerting some control over her world. If your child was born prematurely, give her a few extra weeks or a month to grin. As a general rule, the more premature, the more time it will take to catch up. Respect differences between you and your partner in the way each of you plays with the baby. Dads often arouse babies during play while moms are more low- key. Your baby loves both styles. For dads who find being a new parent challenging, extra bonding time with baby helps strengthen the relationship and ease stress. Caring for baby at this age is still demanding. Work with your partner to relieve each other for naps, exercise, or the "downtime" all parents need. Keep your connection: find time for just you and your partner while baby is sleeping or somebody else is caring for her.
context: Symptoms of a cold can be felt about 1-4 days after catching a cold virus. They start with a burning feeling in the nose or throat, followed by sneezing, a runny nose, and a feeling of being tired and unwell. This is the period when you are most contagious -- you can pass the cold to others -- so it's best to stay home and rest. For the first few days, the nose teems with watery nasal secretions. Later, these become thicker and yellower or greener. You may get a mild cough. It won't get much worse, but it is likely to last into the second week of your illness. If you suffer from chronic bronchitis or asthma, a cold will make it worse. Because the common cold weakens your immune system, it can increase the risk of a bacterial super infection of your sinuses, inner ear or lungs. Community acquired pneumonias can start as a common cold. If symptoms get worse, rather than better, after 3-7 days, you may have acquired a bacterial infection. These symptoms can also be caused by a cold virus other than a rhinovirus. Usually there is no fever; in fact, fever and more severe symptoms may indicate that you have the flu rather than a cold. Cold symptoms typically last for about 3 days. At that point the worst is over, but you may feel congested for a week or more. Except in newborns, colds themselves are not dangerous. They usually go away in 4 to 10 days without any special medicine. Unfortunately, colds do wear down your body's resistance, making you more susceptible to bacterial infections. If your cold is nasty enough, seek medical attention. Your doctor likely will examine your throat, lungs, and ears. If your doctor suspects strep throat, he will take a culture and determine if you have an infection and may need antibiotics. If he suspects pneumonia, you will need a chest X-ray. You notice an inability to swallow You have a sore throat for more than 2 or 3 days, particularly if it seems to be worsening You have an earache You have a stiff neck or sensitivity to bright lights You're pregnant or nursing Your newborn or infant has cold symptoms Your throat hurts and your temperature is 101 degrees F or higher Your cold symptoms worsen after the third day; you may have a bacterial infection