VivekNaga/Medicaldata huggingface dataset:
context: It's normal for newborn babies (boys and girls) to have mild or even swollen, enlarged breasts and/or lumps under the nipple. They are almost always benign and due to exposure to maternal hormones in the womb. The same hormones that cause the mother's breasts to swell and milk glands to be stimulated can do the same to the baby's breasts. These lumps and enlarged breasts in the baby may be quite noticeable at birth. They might even continue to grow after birth for a while. If you were to pinch them, some real breast milk may be expressed. Over weeks, or sometimes even months, when there is no more exposure to the hormones, the breast tissue begins to shrink and eventually becomes quite flat. Occasionally a normal, small amount of tissue remains, but it doesn't grow or cause discomfort. Sometimes, overly worried parents touch and pinch the breasts so much that the area gets irritated. Leave them alone and let nature take its course in shrinking them. In the rare case when the breasts look infected (swollen, red, tender, or have a discharge) and the baby has a fever, call your pediatric provider to check if an infection has set in.
context: It doesn't happen often, but sometimes mothers-to-be have breast cancer. Getting pregnant doesn't cause the cancer, although the changes in hormones from the pregnancy can make the disease grow faster. Your breasts thicken while you're expecting, and that can make it hard to spot small masses or lumps. Because of this, breast cancer tumors are often larger and more advanced by the time they're noticed. This makes it extra important to have breast exams throughout pregnancy. Any lumps or suspicious symptoms need to be checked by a doctor. The best thing you can do while pregnant is to see your doctor regularly. These visits are called prenatal (or "before birth") checkups, and they're crucial for keeping you and your baby in the best possible health. During some of these visits, you may have breast exams to check for changes. You should also regularly do self-exams at home. That way you'll be more able to notice any changes in your breasts. If you're not sure exactly how to give yourself a breast exam, your doctor or nurse can teach you. A mammogram is considered fairly safe during pregnancy, but it may not be as helpful because of the increased density of the breasts. A three-dimensional mammogram may be a better option. If a suspicious lump is found, your doctor should do a biopsy. She'll remove a small sample of the suspicious tissue with a needle or by making a small cut. The sample tissue gets checked under a microscope and with other methods to look for any cancer cells. Your doctor might also give you an ultrasound to assess the extent of any disease and to guide the biopsy. Ending a pregnancy won't improve a woman's chances of beating breast cancer. Also, there's no evidence that the cancer harms the baby. But the treatments have risks. Surgery, in general, is safe during any trimester of pregnancy. If the cancer is still in its early stages, your doctor will most likely recommend removing either the suspicious lump (lumpectomy) or the entire breast (mastectomy). If you're in the first or second trimester, a mastectomy is the preferred surgery. Lumpectomy is usually an option for women diagnosed in the third trimester. Radiation therapy usually doesn't start until after pregnancy because it can harm the baby. During breast cancer surgery, the surgeon will examine the lymph nodes to see whether any are affected. He'll often remove the ones where the cancer is most likely to have spread. If you need chemotherapy, your doctor will usually wait until after the first trimester to lessen the chance that it will harm the baby. Advanced breast cancer usually requires both surgery and chemotherapy, so the risk for the baby is higher. The decision of whether or not to undergo treatment can be a very hard one. Talk with your family and doctor about what's right for you. There's no evidence that stopping your flow of breast milk will improve your cancer. It's often okay to breastfeed when you have this disease, but talk with your doctor or a lactation counselor to see what's best for you and your baby. If you're getting chemotherapy, you likely shouldn't breastfeed. Many powerful chemo drugs can travel through your milk to the baby.
context: Whey is a product of cheese making -- it's the watery part of milk that separates from the curds. Some people use whey as a source of protein or as a supplement for health conditions. Protein powders are popular with athletes, particularly those doing strength training. They provide a good source of nutrients and amino acids. Some people take whey protein because they are lactose intolerant or allergic to other protein sources, like eggs or soy. Several studies have found that whey protein, when combined with strength training, might increase strength, muscle size, and lean body mass. A few studies of whey protein as a treatment have been promising. It's been found to help prevent excessive weight loss in people with HIV. Early evidence suggests that whey protein might also help prevent milk allergies in formula-fed infants. When compared to cow's milk protein, whey may help prevent the development of atopic dermatitis or eczema in young children. More research is needed. Talk to your child's health care provider before giving your baby whey protein. Whey protein has also been studied as a way to slow down metastatic cancer. More research needs to be done. Optimal doses of whey protein have not been established for any condition. Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely from maker to maker. This makes it very hard to establish a standard dose. Whey protein is found in milk in small amounts. In the process of turning milk into cheese, whey protein is removed. It is always a good idea to discuss any supplement with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Here are other guidelines for taking whey protein: Side effects. Most people tolerate whey protein well. High doses can cause nausea, increased bowel movements, thirst, cramps, bloating, and headache. Risks. People with milk allergy or sensitivity should not use whey protein. It could cause an allergic reaction. If you have kidney disease, check with a doctor before using any type of protein powder. Interactions. If you take any medicines or supplements regularly, talk to your health care provider before you start using whey protein. It could interact with antibiotics and certain medicines such as Fosamax for osteoporosis or levodopa for Parkinson's disease.
context: Bell's palsy is a condition in which the muscles on one side of your face become weak or paralyzed. It affects only one side of the face at a time, causing it to droop or become stiff on that side. It's caused by some kind of trauma to the seventh cranial nerve. This is also called the âfacial nerve.â Bell's palsy can happen to anyone. But it seems to occur more often in people who have diabetes or are recovering from viral infections. Most of the time, symptoms are only temporary. If it happens to you, you may fear you're having a stroke. You're probably not. A stroke that affects your facial muscles would cause muscle weakness in other parts of your body, too. Most doctors believe that it's due to damage to the facial nerve, which causes swelling. This nerve passes through a narrow, bony area within the skull. When the nerve swells -- even a little bit -- it pushes against the skull's hard surface. This affects how well the nerve works. Researchers have long believed that viral infections may also play a role in the development of Bell's palsy. They've found evidence that suggests the herpes simplex 1 virus (a common cause of cold sores) may be responsible for a large number of cases.
context: It's a loss of sight that can't be corrected with prescription eyeglasses, contact lenses, or surgery. Low vision doesn't include complete blindness, because you will have some sight left. It can be treated or offset, however, with vision aids like magnifying glasses. The condition includes different degrees of sight loss. You might have a blind spot or an almost complete loss of sight. The Academy of Ophthalmology divides low vision into two categories based on the vision in your best eye: Partially sighted: Your vision is between 20/40 and 20/200 with conventional prescription lenses. Legally blind : Your vision is no better than 20/200 with conventional correction, or you have a restricted field of vision less than 20 degrees wide. The most common ones include: Loss of central vision. You have a blind spot in the center of your field of vision. Loss of peripheral (side) vision. You can't see anything to either side or above or below eye level. But your central vision remains intact. Night blindness. You don't see well in poorly lit places like theaters or outside at night. Blurred vision. Objects both near and far are out of focus. Hazy vision. Your entire field of vision seems to be covered with a film or glare. It's the result of a variety of conditions and injuries. Age is also a factor. Eye problems like macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and optic neuropathy are more common among people over 45 and even more so if you're over 65. Besides age-related retinal conditions, other possible causes include: Glaucoma Diabetes Cancer of the eye Albinism Stroke Eye trauma Brain injury You'll need an eye exam. Make an appointment with your eye doctor if vision troubles prevent you from daily activities like reading, travel, cooking, work, watching television, or school. Your eye doctor will use lighting, magnifiers, and special charts to test your visual acuity, depth perception, and visual fields. Some sight disorders, like diabetic retinopathy, can be treated to restore or maintain vision. When this isn't an option, low vision is permanent. However, many people with low vision find visual aids helpful. Popular products include: Telescopic glasses Lenses that filter light Magnifying glasses Handheld and freestanding magnifiers Closed-circuit television/video magnification Reading prisms Non-optical aids designed for people with low vision are also very helpful. Some popular devices include: Text-reading software Check-writing guides High-contrast clocks and watches Talking watches and clocks Large-print publications Clocks, phones, and watches with large numbers Books on DVD/ CD/audiocassette Visual aids can improve both your sight and quality of life. Ask your doctor where to get them. It may be prevented for patients with diabetes. It can be reversed if it's caused by cataracts.
context: Diabetes can dry out your skin. That means you could get injured more easily, be more likely to get an infection, and take longer to heal. Follow these tips to care for your skin and keep it healthy. To shield your skin from the cold or wind, cover your ears and face, including your nose, and wear a hat. Also, wear warm gloves and shoes or boots. Follow these guidelines, too: Use lip balm to prevent chapped lips. To prevent dry skin when the temperature drops, use a room humidifier to add moisture to heated indoor air. When you bathe or shower, use warm (not hot) water, and a mild, moisturizing soap. Don't take long baths or showers. Pat skin dry -- don't rub it. After washing and drying off, use a mild lotion to prevent dry skin. Avoid scratching dry skin. Apply moisturizer instead. Keep a bottle of lotion near the sink so you can use it after washing your hands. Limit products you use on your skin to lower your chances of having a reaction. If you're prone to acne, talk to your dermatologist before choosing a facial moisturizer. Some can cause acne or make it worse. Use products labeled "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic." Keep a first-aid kit close by to take care of your hands and feet. It should include: Antibacterial ointment Gauze pads Hypoallergenic or paper tape Prepackaged cleansing wipes (in case soap and water aren't available) Don't try to break or pop the blister. The skin that covers it protects it from infection. Gently wash the area with mild soap and warm water. Apply antibacterial ointment to the blister. Cover it with a cloth bandage or gauze pad. Secure that with hypoallergenic or paper tape. Change the bandage at least once a day. If the blister is on your foot and came from your shoes, wear a different pair until it heals. Gently wash the area with mild soap and warm water. Apply antibacterial ointment. Cover the cut with a cloth bandage or gauze pad. Secure that with hypoallergenic or paper tape. Change the bandage at least once a day. Gently wash the area with a mild soap and warm water and pat dry. Cover the irritated skin with a cloth bandage or gauze pad. Secure that with hypoallergenic or paper tape. Keep checking the area to make sure the irritation doesn't get worse. Change the bandage at least once a day. Soothe the area with cool, clean running water. Don't try to break or pop any blisters. Gently wash the area with mild soap and warm water and pat dry. Cover the burn with a gauze pad. Secure that with hypoallergenic or paper tape. Change the bandage at least once a day. Call for medical help immediately. Use warm, not hot, water to warm the skin (98-104 F). Don't rub the area or apply creams. Don't try to walk on the affected foot or use the affected hand. When you have diabetes, your feet need special attention. Beyond a daily foot care routine, call your doctor or podiatrist right away if you: Don't see an improvement the next day after treating a minor problem, such as a cut. Have pain or discomfort that lasts for more than 2 days. Have a temperature. Notice any pus on the sore or near the wound.
context: It's a fact: You have to burn more calories than you eat and drink to lose weight. For weight loss, it really matters that you cut back on the calories that you eat and drink. That matters most for taking the pounds off, according to the CDC. Exercise pays off in the long run by keeping those pounds off. Research shows that regular physical activity will increase your chances of maintaining weight loss. Start with just a few minutes of exercise at a time. Any exercise is better than none, and that helps your body slowly get used to being active. Your goal is to work up to at least a half an hour most days of the week to get the full benefits from exercise. If it's more convenient, you can do short spurts -- 10 minutes here, 15 minutes there. Each action by itself may not seem like much, but they add up. Once you're in better shape, you can gradually exercise for longer periods of time and do more strenuous activities. When you're up for it, you can ramp up the intensity and get the same benefits in half the time. For example, jogging for 30 minutes provides health benefits similar to walking for 60 minutes. You can do anything that makes your heart and lungs work harder, such as walking, biking, jogging, swimming, fitness classes, or cross-country skiing. Mowing your lawn, going out dancing, playing with your kids -- it all counts, if it revs your heart. If you don't exercise and you're a man over 45, a woman over 55, or have a medical condition, ask your doctor if you should avoid any types of activities. Start with something like walking or swimming that's easy on your body. Work at a slow, comfortable pace so you start to get fit without straining your body. At least two or three times a week, do strength training. You can use resistance bands, weights, or your own body weight. Stretch all your muscles at least twice a week after you exercise. That helps keep you flexible and prevent injury.
context: Most people who have an organ transplant live a pretty normal life. But organ transplants can still lead to other medical problems. This is usually because of the medicines needed to suppress the immune system so it doesn't "fight" the donor organ. These problems range from the annoying to the life-threatening. Here's a rundown of some of them. Diabetes. Diabetes can be a new problem or a problem that is exacerbated after the transplant. Some transplant medications can be responsible. High cholesterol. High cholesterol doesn't have any symptoms itself, but it's still dangerous. It can clog up your blood vessels, possibly damage your donor organ, and eventually lead to heart disease. It's a fairly common side effect of some of the medications used to control your immune system response after a transplant. High blood pressure. Again, the medicines you need can aggravate or cause high blood pressure. While it can be a serious condition, it may get better as you taper off your medication. You may need to change some of your habits, too. Make sure to eat a healthy diet and get regular exercise. Gastrointestinal problems. This is a fairly common side effect of steroids. Your health care professional may prescribe medication to help. On your own, do what you can to settle your stomach. Take medication with meals to reduce irritation. Cut down on alcohol and drinks with caffeine. Gout. A buildup of uric acid in the blood can result in gout, a painful inflammation of some joints. It can be caused or worsened by some of the post-transplant medications used to suppress your immune system. Treatment depends on your specific case. It may be possible to change some of your medications to control the condition. Anxiety and depression. People who have received a transplant have usually been through a lot of frightening and nerve-racking experiences: coping with a life-threatening disease, waiting for a transplant, recovering from serious surgery and readjusting to life. It's not surprising that many people develop chronic anxiety and depression. Medications can make them worse and cause mood swings. But don't ever accept these conditions as normal. Get help. Talk to your organ transplant team. There's no reason for you to suffer. Sexual problems. Some people who have a transplant develop some sexual problems, such as a decreased sex drive or loss of function. These symptoms can be caused by health problems, your medication, stress, or a combination. Although it may feel embarrassing, get help. There's nothing to be ashamed of. Your health care provider may be able to resolve the problem. Unwanted hair growth. The solution to this problem is the obvious: try shaving, waxing, or using drugstore products that remove hair.
context: It's simple: You should nurse or offer a bottle whenever your little one is hungry in the first few months as a newborn. And your baby is going to let you know, loud and clear! But crying isn't the only clue. Following your child's lead, instead of trying to stick to a strict time-based schedule, is often called âdemand feedingâ or âfeeding on-demand.â Since your infant can't actually say " I'm hungry,â you'll want to learn to look for cues that it's time to eat. These may include: Leaning toward your breast or a bottle Sucking on his hands or fingers Opening his mouth, sticking out his tongue, or puckering his lips Fussiness Crying is also a sign of hunger. But if you wait until your baby is very upset to feed him, it can be hard to calm him down. Every child is different. It also depends on whether your baby is drinking breast milk or formula, since they digest breast milk more quickly. If you're breastfeeding, your newborn will probably want to nurse every 1.5 to 3 hours. As he gets older, he'll slowly start to nurse less often and fall into a more predictable pattern. Newborns should nurse 8-12 times a day for the first month; when your child gets to be 4 to 8 weeks old, he'll probably start nursing 7-9 times a day. If he's drinking formula, your baby will probably want a bottle every 2 to 3 hours at first. As your child grows, he should be able to go 3 to 4 hours without eating. You may notice that your baby sometimes wants to eat more often or a larger amount than normal. This usually happens when a child is growing rapidly. Your child may go through growth spurts at 7-14 days old, between 3-6 weeks old, around 4 months old, and around 6 months old. Not sure if your baby is getting enough to eat? You can probably relax. If your child has 4-6 wet diapers a day, regular bowel movements, and is gaining weight, then chances are he's doing just fine. If you have any concerns, give your pediatrician a call.
context: Your doctor has several ways to try to diagnose your heart disease. One of those is a chest X-ray. It uses a small amount of radiation to produce an image of your heart, lungs, and blood vessels. Your doctor uses a chest X-ray to: Look at your chest bones, heart, and lungs See if your pacemaker, defibrillator, or other heart devices are in place To check on any catheters and chest tubes you may have You don't need to do anything to get ready for it. But you do need to let the technician know if you could be pregnant. Your X-ray will take no more than 10 to 15 minutes. You'll have to remove all of your clothes and jewelry from the waist up, and wear a hospital gown. And you have to stand very still while you hold your breath. The process is painless and simple. It can show your doctor if you have: Fluid in or around your lungs Enlarged heart Blood vessel problems, such as an aortic aneurysm. This is a bulge in your aorta, the vessel that carries blood from your heart to your chest and beyond. Congenital heart disease (heart problems you're born with) Calcium build-up in the heart or blood vessels, which could make a heart attack more likely
context: Future treatments for erectile dysfunction focus on providing medications that are more effective, work rapidly, and have fewer, if any, side effects than currently available treatments. Currently there are five oral drugs available to treat ED -- Cialis, Levitra, Stendra, Staxyn, and Viagra. A number of pharmaceutical companies are researching new treatments for ED, and many new options may be just around the corner. These include: Uprima: Uprima (apomorphine) comes in a tablet form that dissolves under the tongue. Uprima works by stimulating the brain chemical dopamine, which heightens sexual interest and sensations. Its major side effects are nausea and vomiting. Additionally, a small number of people passed out after taking Uprima. Therefore, its release in the U. S. is on hold. It is currently available in Europe. Clinical trials are also currently being conducted on a nasal spray form of this drug, which may cause less nausea. Topiglan: Still under investigation, a cream applied to the penis called topiglan uses the same drug (alprostadil) that is injected and also used in suppositories to treat ED. If topiglan proves to be safe and effective, it is still not entirely clear which patients would benefit from its application and whether patients on injection and suppository therapy would no longer have to use these techniques. Melanocortin activators: These are drugs that appear to act through the central nervous system (for example, the brain). They have been shown in animal studies to produce an erection. Initial studies in humans suggest that the drug ( PT-141) can be effective if given intranasally (through the nose) in men with nonmedical (psychological/emotional) rather than physical causes of ED and mild to moderate ED. Larger studies will be necessary to demonstrate the safety and overall effectiveness of these drugs. Gene therapy: This novel therapy would deliver genes that produce products or proteins that may not be functioning properly in the penile tissue of men with ED. Replacement of these proteins may result in improvement in erectile function. Experimental animal models have demonstrated improvement in erectile function with gene therapy. Human studies may also demonstrate success with this therapy. Gene therapy may take a long time for regulatory approval and public acceptance.
context: The good news about gout is that it can be controlled. Medicines help in two ways: They reduce pain during an attack, and can reduce the uric acid buildup that causes the condition. When uric acid builds up in your body, it can form crystals that irritate your joints. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis. An attack may come after an illness or injury. The first sign is often pain in the big toe. It usually affects one joint at a time, but gout can spread to other joints and leave them looking red and swollen. The pain from a gout attack usually gets better in 3 to 10 days. But you'll feel better faster if the gout is treated. If you think you might have it, contact your doctor. An exam and tests will show if it's gout or something else, like an infection. Talk with your doctor about the best medicines for you. The type will depend on how well your kidneys work, the possible side effects, and other health issues. NSAIDs help reduce pain and swelling in the joints during a gout attack. Popular types are ibuprofen and naproxen. If you take NSAIDs in the first 24 hours, it can help shorten the attack. Other ways to reduce the pain are to ice, rest, and raise the joint. Your doctor may recommend one of these medicines that you can't get over the counter: Allopurinol ( Aloprim, Zyloprim)reduces uric acid production. Colchicine ( Colcrys) reduces inflammation. Febuxostat ( Uloric) reduces uric acid production. Indomethacin ( Indocin) is a stronger NSAID pain reliever. Lesinurad helps your body get rid of uric acid when you pee. Pegloticase ( Krystexxa) breaks down uric acid. Probenecid ( Benemid) helps the kidneys excrete uric acid from your body. Steroids (also called corticosteroids) fight inflammation. Along with medicine, your doctor may suggest other ways to prevent another attack: Exercise and eat a balanced diet to control your weight. Drink lots of water. Stay away from sugary drinks. Avoid excessive alcohol use, especially beer. Eat less meat, especially liver and sweetbreads, and seafood. Get your protein from foods like low-fat dairy. products like yogurt, cheese and milk. These medicine and lifestyle change can help you get through an attack and prevent other attacks.
context: Fact: Your surgeon may be able to spare the nerves that help trigger erections. That means you should be able to have an erection strong enough for sex again. But it may be a while. Recovery can take from 4 to 24 months, maybe longer. Younger men usually heal sooner. If you still have trouble, ask your doctor about treatments for erectile dysfunction. There are medications and devices that can help. He'll tell you if they're right for you. Other prostate cancer treatments, like radiation and hormone therapy, also can affect your sex life. Talk to your doctor about your choices. You might leak urine after surgery, but it's usually short-term. Within a year, about 95% of men have as much bladder control as they did before the operation. Fact: It's rare for men under 40 to get it. If you have concerns, ask your doctor if you should get tested earlier. Age isn't the only factor. Others include: Family history: If your father or brother had it, you could be two or three times more likely to get it. The more relatives you have with the disease, the greater your chances of getting it. Race: African- American men are more likely to get it than anyone else. Scientists don't know why. Discuss your risks with your doctor so you can decide together when you should be tested. Fact: You and your doctor may decide not to treat your prostate cancer. Reasons include: It's in an early stage and is growing very slowly. You're elderly or have other illnesses. Prostate cancer treatment may not prolong your life and may make it harder to care for your other health problems. In such cases, your doctor will likely suggest âactive surveillance.â This means that he'll check you often and order tests to see if your cancer is getting worse. If your situation changes, you may decide to start treatment. Fact: Not necessarily. An inflamed prostate can drive up your numbers. The score helps your doctor decide if you need more tests to check for prostate cancer. Also, he'll watch your PSA score over time. If it's on the rise, that could be a sign of a problem. If it goes down after cancer treatment, that's great. Fact: Many men with prostate cancer are likely to live to an old age or die of some other cause.
context: Knowing the risk factors and signs of a stroke is the first step in stroke prevention. A stroke, sometimes called a "brain attack," occurs when blood flow to an area in the brain is cut off. The brain cells, deprived of the oxygen and glucose needed to survive, die. If not caught early, permanent brain damage and death can result. There are two types of stroke: Ischemic strokeis similar to a heart attack, except it occurs in the blood vessels of the brain. Clots can form either in the brain's blood vessels, in blood vessels leading to the brain, or even blood vessels elsewhere in the body that travel to the brain. These clots block blood flow to the brain's cells. Ischemic stroke can also occur when too much plaque (fatty deposits and cholesterol) clogs the brain's blood vessels. About 80% of all strokes are ischemic. Hemorrhagic (heh-more-raj-ik) strokes occur when a blood vessel in the brain breaks or ruptures. The result is blood seeping into the brain tissue, causing damage to brain cells. The most common causes of hemorrhagic stroke are high blood pressure and brain aneurysms. An aneurysm is a weakness or thinness in the blood vessel wall. The most common symptoms of a stroke are: Weakness or numbness of the face, arm, or leg on one side of the body Loss of vision or dimming (like a curtain falling) in one or both eyes Loss of speech, difficulty talking, or understanding what others are saying Sudden, severe headache with no known cause Loss of balance or unstable walking, usually combined with another symptom Immediately call 911 if you or someone you know has symptoms of a stroke. Stroke is a medical emergency. Immediate treatment can save your life or increase your chances for a full recovery. The American Heart Association uses the memory tool known as F. A. S. T. to recognize signs of stroke: Facial drooping Arm weakness Slurring of speech Time to call 911 Up to half of all strokes are preventable. Many risk factors can be controlled before they cause problems. Controllable risk factors Include: High blood pressure Atrial fibrillation Uncontrolled diabetes High cholesterol Smoking Excessive alcohol intake Being overweight Existing carotid and/or coronary artery disease Uncontrollable Risk Factors: Age ( People over age 65) Gender ( Men have more strokes, women have deadlier strokes) Race ( African- Americans are at increased risk) Family history of stroke Your doctor can evaluate your risk for stroke and help you control your risk factors. Sometimes, people experience warning signs before a stroke occurs. These are called transient ischemic attacks (also called TIA or "mini-stroke"), brief episodes of the stroke symptoms listed above. A TIA is when a blockage, caused by a clot, is temporary. These leave no permanent brain damage but do put you at higher risk for a subsequent stroke. Some people have no warning signs before a stroke, or symptoms are so mild that they are not noticeable. Regular check-ups are important in catching problems before they become serious. Report any symptoms or risk factors to your doctor.
context: Managing your type 2 diabetes is a big part of your life. If you have a partner or a spouse, diabetes becomes a part of their life, too. Studies show that a supportive partner can help you better manage your disease. And as a bonus, teamwork can bring you closer as a couple. It's obvious but bears saying: No one other than you is more touched by your diabetes than the person who lives with you. Your condition can take an emotional or physical toll on your partner or create conflicts. It's common for your partner to worry about: Serious health complications, like blindness or amputations How to help you control your diabetes day to day and to deal with any blood sugar emergencies If you'll be able to take care of your family and other responsibilities Money and insurance coverage If you don't talk about these issues candidly, the stressors over time can put a wedge in your relationship. Here are ways you can strengthen your bond as you navigate your new normal. The better you understand your diabetes, the better you can manage it. Ditto for your partner. Both of you should learn about the danger of high and low blood sugar levels, insulin and other medications, the benefits of exercise, and the best diet to keep your blood sugar under control. Consider taking your partner along on your doctors' appointments or to diabetes classes. Every couple is different. You may be grateful if your partner checks that you've taken your insulin or suggests testing new diabetes-friendly recipes. Or you might chafe at those gestures as nagging and controlling. The key is to talk openly and clearly about how to work together so you're as healthy as you can be. Don't assume your loved one will feel burdened by diabetes-related tasks. Also don't expect them to be your caretaker around the clock. Ask them how they'd like to help. Be honest about what support you hope for, too. Clear expectations and boundaries will help you avoid the stress of not enough -- or too much -- support. Managing your diabetes can take a lifestyle overhaul. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and lowering stress are important parts of your medical care. That might mean cooking more often at home or joining a gym. The changes can affect your partner's daily routine in a big way. It's hard to adopt and make new habits stick unless you tackle the challenges as a team. Look for new dishes you both might enjoy, and take up physical activities you can do together, like a 30-minute walk after dinner. You'll both benefit. If you and your partner feel out of sync in managing your diabetes, couples counseling might help. Whether your diagnosis is new or you've had the condition for a while, a counselor can help you communicate better so your health becomes a shared goal. You could also lean on diabetes support groups. They can help you feel less alone or different and offer advice and tips. Some groups cater to women or men. Others are for couples, families, or even specific ethnic groups. Ask your doctor or diabetes educator about groups near you.
context: Sometime in your 40s, it gets harder to see close up, but you can see things far away just fine. This is called presbyopia. In spite of the big name, it isn't a disease. It's a natural part of the aging process. And it's easy to correct. Presbyopia is often confused with farsightedness, but the two are different. Presbyopia happens when the natural lens in the eye gets less flexible. Farsightedness is from a misshaped eyeball that causes light rays to focus incorrectly once they have entered the eye. You'll notice: You need to hold reading material at arm's length. Blurred vision at a normal reading distance Headaches or fatigue from doing close work Your eye doctor can diagnose presbyopia with a thorough eye exam. There's no cure for presbyopia. But there are a lot of ways to improve it. Readers: Yes, those cheap glasses you see at the drugstore can often do the trick. Pick the weakest pair that lets you see what you need to read. Bifocals work for many people. If you have glasses already, this might be the option for you. They're eyeglasses with two different prescriptions in one lens. The top part corrects for distance vision. The lower section helps you see objects up close. Progressive lenses are similar to bifocals, but there's a gradual or blended transition between the two prescriptions instead of separate sections Contact lenses can also treat presbyopia. You might try: Multifocal lenses, which come in soft or gas-permeable versions. Monovision lenses: One lens helps you see objects at a distance. The other is for close-up vision. KAMRA Inlay is an FDA-approved implant. That means a doctor will surgically place it in one eye. It can work for people with presbyopia who haven't had cataract surgery. Other procedures are available as well. Ask your doctor what's best for you.
context: Bedwetting can damage the child's self-image and confidence. The best way to prevent this is to be supportive. Parents should reassure the child that bedwetting is a common problem that has a strong genetic component and that they are confident that the child will overcome the problem. Here are some tips to help your child cope with bedwetting: Focus on the problem: bedwetting. Avoid blaming or punishing your child. Remember, your child cannot control the bedwetting, and blaming and punishing will just make the problem worse. Be patient and supportive. Reassure and encourage your child often. Do not make an issue out of bedwetting each time it happens. If you or your spouse wet the bed as a kid, remind your child that mommy or daddy had the same issue and eventually outgrew it. Enforce a "no teasing" rule in the family. No one is allowed to tease the child about the bedwetting, including those outside the immediate family. Do not discuss the bedwetting in front of other family members. Encourage responsibility. Help your child understand that the responsibility for being dry is his or hers and not that of the parents. Reassure your child that you want to help him or her overcome the problem. In addition, have your child help in the clean-up process. Make clean-up easy. To increase comfort and reduce damage, use washable absorbent sheets, layer sheets among waterproof bed covers, and use room deodorizers. Along with supporting your child emotionally, there are a number of steps you can take that may help reduce the number of bedwetting accidents. Here are more tips. Reduce evening fluid intake. Do not give your child anything to drink in the two hours before bedtime, especially drinks such as tea or sodas that contain caffeine. Have your child go to the bathroom before getting into bed. Set a goal for your child of getting up at night to use the toilet. Instead of focusing on making it through the night dry, help your child understand that it is more important to wake up every night to use the toilet. Make sure the child has easy access to the toilet. Clear the path from his or her bed to the toilet and install night-lights. Provide a portable toilet if necessary. Reward your child for remaining dry. A system of sticker charts and rewards works for some children. The child gets a sticker on the chart for every night of remaining dry. A certain number of stickers earn a reward. Consider using absorbent pants at night. Some believe that you should avoid using absorbent pants at home because they can interfere with the motivation to wake up and use the toilet. Others argue that absorbent pants help the child feel more independent and confident. Talk to your child's doctor to determine what is best for your child. Monitor your child's bowel movements. Constipation can interfere with the complete and efficient emptying of the bladder. Talk to your pediatrician if your child has troubles with constipation.
context: Can dietary supplements really help control diabetes? If you are like many people with diabetes, you might wonder whether the ads you have seen or heard are true. Take a few minutes to learn how diabetes and dietary supplements can be a good mix -- or a set-up for trouble. Dietary supplements are vitamins, minerals, and other nutritional components such as herbs. You take them by mouth. Dietary supplements can sometimes provide extra nutritional benefit to people with special health problems, including diabetes. However, most people with diabetes will still have to take traditional prescription medicine to keep their blood sugar levels in control. So far, there is not enough research to support specific recommendations for diabetes and dietary supplements. Ongoing studies point to two minerals that may be linked to blood sugar control. Chromium is needed to help the body use glucose effectively. However, more research is needed to see if taking a magnesium supplement will help control blood sugar levels in people who are not magnesium deficient. Magnesium levels are often low in people who have problems with insulin secretion and in people with complications of type 2 diabetes. Whether magnesium dietary supplements can help relieve or reduce these problems is still unknown. If you are not cautious, diabetes and dietary supplements can be a dangerous mix. Here's why: Some supplements have been found to be contaminated with substances other than those stated on the label. Some supplements may interact with medication or other supplements, such as herbs, increasing or decreasing their effects. St. John's wort, for example, is known to have many drug interactions and should be avoided with other many other medications. The American Diabetes Association states that there is no evidence that vitamin or mineral supplements will benefit people with type 2 diabetes who do not have an actual deficiency. Talk with your doctor. That's the first step in deciding whether or not to mix diabetes and dietary supplements. He or she can discuss the possible benefits and risks of dietary supplements. Your doctor or pharmacist can also check that any supplements you take will not interact dangerously with your medications. Be sure to list any dietary supplements you take whenever you tell your doctor or any other health care professional about your medications.
context: If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you most likely felt it first in the small joints of your hands. With the pain comes stiffness and swelling, which can make day-to-day life a challenge. Occupational therapists sometimes recommend arthritis gloves to help with symptoms. You just slip them on to help ease pain and swelling. They could make it easier to deal with your daily activities. Try all the different kinds of gloves to find the right one for you. One type keeps your hands warm. These are known as thermals. Another gives you extra support. These are called glove splints. The compression type will provide pressure on your aching fingers and hand joints. You can choose a glove with a combination of features. In addition to easing your symptoms, they may also help you feel more relaxed and calm. The gloves aren't going to do much to help you regain the use of your hands, but they might improve your grip. The gloves are designed to be worn for 8 hours -- about the length of time you sleep. So if you keep them on overnight, you might see a difference in: Swelling. Compression gloves can help with puffy fingers. Hand pain . If you wear them at night, your hands might hurt less while you sleep. Joint stiffness . Your fingers may be easier to move in the morning. Use of your hand. Your grip can get better, but you're not going to be more nimble. The gloves, and how effective they are, really depends on you and how you react to them. They might help with one symptom but not another. Or they could have no effect at all. Make sure your gloves fit well. If they're too tight or too loose, there's less chance you'll get any benefits from wearing them. Ask your doctor or therapist if you need help with fit. Stick with the 8-hour rule. You probably won't see any changes if you only wear them for an hour here and there. If you also have carpal tunnel syndrome, talk to your doctor before you try the gloves. Your carpal tunnel symptoms could get worse if you wear arthritis gloves at night.
context: Roseola is a common virus that infects children under age 2. Most of the time, it's nothing to worry about, and kids get better on their own. It's also sometimes called âsixth disease.â A child may not have any symptoms for 5-15 days after getting the virus that causes roseola. When symptoms do appear, the first thing you'll notice is a sudden, high fever (over 103 F) that lasts or can come and go for 3-7 days. Other than the fever, your child might seem healthy. She may be restless or irritable. Once the fever goes away, she might also develop a raised, spotty, reddish rash, mainly on her neck and trunk. It doesn't itch and may last just a few hours or a few days. Your child might also have diarrhea, cough, and droopy or swollen eyelids. It's an infection brought on by human herpesvirus 6 or, occasionally, human herpesvirus 7. It remains in the child's body but usually remains latent, or turned off. It's most common in infants and children between 6 and 24 months old. A doctor usually knows your child has roseola because of the telltale symptoms: high fever followed by rash. Usually, no lab tests are needed. Since it's caused by a virus, antibiotics won't help cure it. So, your child's doctor will likely just treat her symptoms to make her more comfortable. For high fever, he might recommend acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If your child develops other symptoms or becomes very sick, he may order blood or urine tests. Roseola is contagious, so your doctor will tell you to keep your child away from others, at least until the fever goes away. Once it's been gone for at least 24 hours, she can play with other kids, even if she still has a rash. Sometimes, a very high fever may cause seizures. If this happens to your child, she might pass out for a short time. Her arms and legs may jerk for many seconds or minutes. She could also lose control of her bladder and bowels. If your child has a seizure, call 911. Luckily, most seizures in young children don't last long and aren't harmful.
context: If you have low T, your levels of the male sex hormone, testosterone, drop below normal. When that happens it may affect your sex life. Your sex drive could go down. And you might develop erectile dysfunction ( ED). Men with ED have trouble getting or maintaining an erection suitable for sex. It's important to remember that low T isn't the only cause of ED. The most common cause of ED is reduced blood flow to the penis due to chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and hardening of the arteries. Psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues are also possible causes of ED. So are multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, chronic back pain, and other neurological conditions. Erections depend on testosterone, but the relationship between the two is complex and not fully understood. Some men have healthy erections despite testosterone levels well below the normal range. What is clear is that low testosterone levels are linked to a number of the same chronic conditions that play a role in erectile dysfunction, such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, and heart disease. If your testosterone level measures in the normal range, raising it through testosterone replacement therapy ( TRT) probably won't help your ED. Instead, you'll have to look for and address other causes. For men who do have low testosterone levels, TRT has a better track record of restoring a man's sex drive than overcoming ED. While many men on TRT do report improvements in their erections, they often need added help from ED drugs known as PDE-5 inhibitors, such as: avanafil ( Stendra) sildenafil ( Viagra) tadalafil ( Cialis) vardenafil ( Levitra) These drugs encourage erections by increasing blood flow to the penis. Some men with low T, on the other hand, don't respond to these drugs without also undergoing TRT. Some research suggests that erection improvements that result from TRT may not last over the long term. Treating low testosterone can improve a man's sex life by restoring his libido and brightening his mood, thereby renewing his interest in sex. In men with low testosterone, TRT may also protect against some of the risk factors for ED by reducing belly fat, increasing insulin sensitivity, and lowering the risk for diabetes. Some studies suggest that TRT in men with low T may benefit heart health, although in high doses it can make heart disease worse. TRT does have risks and side effects, though, and its long-term safety and effectiveness have not been thoroughly studied. Some of the side effects of TRT include: Acne Shrinkage of testicles Larger breasts Check with your doctor for other possible side effects. If you have low testosterone and ED, your doctor may prescribe a trial of TRT to see whether boosting your testosterone levels will also boost the quality of your erections and improve other symptoms of low T. In addition to treatment for low T, regular exercise and a healthy diet also can contribute to a rise in your testosterone levels, especially if you're overweight or obese. Both can also improve libido and ED.