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[ { "_answerid": "Q1-S1-A1", "_pairid": "1", "__text": "Cardiac amyloidosis is a disorder caused by deposits of an abnormal protein (amyloid) in the heart tissue. These deposits make it hard for the heart to work properly." }, { "_answerid": "Q1-S1-A2", "_pairid": "2", "__text": "The term \"amyloidosis\" refers not to a single disease but to a collection of diseases in which a protein-based infiltrate deposits in tissues as beta-pleated sheets. The subtype of the disease is determined by which protein is depositing; although dozens of subtypes have been described, most are incredibly rare or of trivial importance. This analysis will focus on the main systemic forms of amyloidosis, both of which frequently involve the heart." } ]

[ "cardiac amyloidosis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q2-S1-A1", "_pairid": "3", "__text": "There is no specific cure for migraine headaches. The goal is to treat your migraine symptoms right away, and to prevent symptoms by avoiding or changing your triggers. A key step is learning how to manage your migraines at home. A headache diary can help you identify your headache triggers. Then you and your doctor can plan how to avoid these triggers. If you have frequent migraines, your doctor may prescribe medicine to reduce the number of attacks. You need to take the medicine every day for it to be effective. Medicines may include: - Antidepressants - Blood pressure medicines - Seizure medicines Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) injections may also help reduce migraine attacks if they occur more than 15 days a month. Some people find relief with minerals and vitamins. Check with your doctor to see if riboflavin or magnesium are right for you. TREATING AN ATTACK Other medicines are taken at the first sign of a migraine attack. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin are often helpful when your migraine is mild. Be aware that: - Taking medicines more than 3 days a week may lead to rebound headaches. These are headaches that keep coming back due to overuse of pain medicine. - Taking too much acetaminophen can damage your liver. - Too much ibuprofen or aspirin can irritate your stomach or kidneys. If these treatments do not help, ask your doctor about prescription medicines. These include nasal sprays, suppositories, or injections. Some migraine medicines narrow the blood vessels. If you are at risk for having a heart attack or have heart disease, talk with your doctor before using these medicines. Some migraine medicines should not be used by pregnant women. Talk with your doctor about which medicine is right for you if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Other medicines treat symptoms of migraine, such as nausea and vomiting. They may be used alone or along with the other drugs that treat the migraine itself. Feverfew is a herb for migraines. It can be effective for some people. Before using feverfew, make sure your doctor approves. Herbal remedies sold in drugstores and health food stores are not regulated. Work with a trained herbalist when selecting herbs." }, { "_answerid": "Q2-S1-A2", "_pairid": "4", "__text": "There is no absolute cure for migraine since its pathophysiology has yet to be fully understood.  There are two ways to approach the treatment of migraine headache with drugs: prevent the attacks, or relieve the symptoms during the attacks. Prevention involves the use of medications and behavioral changes.  Drugs originally developed for epilepsy, depression, or high blood pressure to prevent future attacks have been shown to be extremely effective in treating migraine. Botulinum toxin A has been shown to be effective in prevention of chronic migraine.  Behaviorally, stress management strategies, such as exercise, relaxation techniques, biofeedback mechanisms, and other therapies designed to limit daily discomfort, may reduce the number and severity of migraine attacks.  Making a log of personal triggers of migraine can also provide useful information for trigger-avoiding lifestyle changes, including dietary considerations, eating regularly scheduled meals with adequate hydration, stopping certain medications, and establishing a consistent sleep schedule. Hormone therapy may help some women whose migraines seem to be linked to their menstrual cycle. A weight loss program is recommended for obese individuals with migraine. Relief of symptoms, or acute treatments, during attacks consists of sumatriptan, ergotamine drugs, and analgesics such as ibuprofen and aspirin.  The sooner these treatments are administered, the more effective they are." } ]

[ "migraine" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q3-S1-A1", "_pairid": "5", "__text": "Before taking pyridoxine, tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to pyridoxine or any other drugs. tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially levodopa (Larodopa, Sinemet), phenobarbital, phenytoin (Dilantin), and other vitamins. tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking pyridoxine, call your doctor." } ]

[ "pyridoxine" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q4-S1-A1", "_pairid": "6", "__text": "Muscle cramps are common and often occur when a muscle is overused or injured. Working out when you have not had enough fluids (dehydration) or when you have low levels of minerals such as potassium or calcium can also make you more likely to have a muscle spasm. Muscle cramps can occur while you play tennis or golf, bowl, swim, or do any other exercise. They can also be triggered by: - Alcoholism - Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) - Kidney failure - Medications - Menstruation - Pregnancy" } ]

[ "cramp" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q5-S1-A1", "_pairid": "7", "__text": "These resources address the diagnosis or management of age-related macular degeneration: - BrightFocus Foundation: Macular Degeneration Treatment - Genetic Testing Registry: Age-related macular degeneration - Genetic Testing Registry: Age-related macular degeneration 1 - Genetic Testing Registry: Age-related macular degeneration 10 - Genetic Testing Registry: Age-related macular degeneration 11 - Genetic Testing Registry: Age-related macular degeneration 2 - Genetic Testing Registry: Age-related macular degeneration 3 - Genetic Testing Registry: Age-related macular degeneration 4 - Genetic Testing Registry: Age-related macular degeneration 7 - Genetic Testing Registry: Age-related macular degeneration 9 - Genetic Testing Registry: Susceptibility to age-related macular degeneration, wet type - Genetic Testing Registry: Susceptibility to neovascular type of age-related macular degeneration - Macular Degeneration Partnership: Low Vision Rehabilitation - Prevent Blindness America: Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Test - Amsler Grid These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care" } ]

[ "macular degeneration" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q6-S1-A1", "_pairid": "8", "__text": "Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. This condition is often called underactive thyroid." }, { "_answerid": "Q6-S1-A2", "_pairid": "9", "__text": "Summary Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck, just above your collarbone. It is one of your endocrine glands, which make hormones. Thyroid hormones control the rate of many activities in your body. These include how fast you burn calories and how fast your heart beats. All of these activities are your body's metabolism. If your thyroid gland is not active enough, it does not make enough thyroid hormone to meet your body's needs. This condition is hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is more common in women, people with other thyroid problems, and those over 60 years old. Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disorder, is the most common cause. Other causes include thyroid nodules, thyroiditis, congenital hypothyroidism, surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid, radiation treatment of the thyroid, and some medicines. The symptoms can vary from person to person. They may include - Fatigue - Weight gain - A puffy face - Cold intolerance - Joint and muscle pain - Constipation - Dry skin - Dry, thinning hair - Decreased sweating - Heavy or irregular menstrual periods and fertility problems - Depression - Slowed heart rate To diagnose hypothyroidism, your doctor will look at your symptoms and blood tests. Treatment is with synthetic thyroid hormone, taken every day. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases" }, { "_answerid": "Q6-S1-A3", "_pairid": "10", "__text": "Hypothyroidism is a disorder that occurs when the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone to meet the body’s needs.  Thyroid hormone regulates metabolism—the way the body uses energy—and affects nearly every organ in the body. Without enough thyroid hormone, many of the body’s functions slow down.  About 4.6 percent of the U.S. population age 12 and older has hypothyroidism.1" } ]

[ "hypothyroidism" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q6-S2-A1", "_pairid": "12", "__text": "The thyroid gland is an important organ of the endocrine system. It is located at the front of the neck, just above where your collarbones meet. The thyroid makes hormones that control the way every cell in the body uses energy. This process is called metabolism. Hypothyroidism is more common in women and people over age 50. The most common cause of hypothyroidism is thyroiditis. Swelling and inflammation damage the thyroid gland's cells. Causes of this problem include: - The immune system attacking the thyroid gland - Viral infections (common cold) or other respiratory infections - Pregnancy (often called postpartum thyroiditis) Other causes of hypothyroidism include: - Certain medicines, such as lithium and amiodarone - Congenital (birth) defects - Radiation treatments to the neck or brain to treat different cancers - Radioactive iodine used to treat an overactive thyroid gland - Surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid gland - Sheehan syndrome, a condition that may occur in a woman who bleeds severely during pregnancy or childbirth and causes the destruction of the pituitary gland - Pituitary tumor or pituitary surgery" }, { "_answerid": "Q6-S2-A2", "_pairid": "13", "__text": "Hypothyroidism has several causes, including - Hashimoto’s disease - thyroiditis, or inflammation of the thyroid - congenital hypothyroidism, or hypothyroidism that is present at birth - surgical removal of part or all of the thyroid - radiation treatment of the thyroid - some medications Less commonly, hypothyroidism is caused by too much or too little iodine in the diet or by abnormalities of the pituitary gland. Hashimoto’s Disease Hashimoto’s disease, also called chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States.1  Hashimoto’s disease is a form of chronic inflammation of the thyroid gland.  Hashimoto’s disease is also an autoimmune disorder. Normally, the immune system protects the body against foreign invaders—such as viruses and bacteria—that can cause illness.  But in autoimmune diseases, the immune system attacks the body’s own cells and organs.  With Hashimoto’s disease, the immune system attacks the thyroid, causing inflammation and interfering with its ability to produce thyroid hormones. More information is provided in the NIDDK health topic, Hashimoto’s Disease. Thyroiditis Thyroiditis causes stored thyroid hormone to leak out of the thyroid gland.  At first, the leakage raises hormone levels in the blood, leading to hyperthyroidism—when thyroid hormone levels are too high––that lasts for 1 or 2 months.  Most people then develop hypothyroidism before the thyroid is completely healed. Several types of thyroiditis can cause hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism: - Subacute thyroiditis. This condition involves painful inflammation and enlargement of the thyroid.  Experts are not sure what causes subacute thyroiditis, but it may be related to a viral or bacterial infection.  The condition usually goes away on its own in a few months. - Postpartum thyroiditis. This type of thyroiditis develops after a woman gives birth.  For more information, see the section titled “What happens with pregnancy and thyroid conditions?” - Silent thyroiditis. This type of thyroiditis is called “silent” because it is painless, as is postpartum thyroiditis, even though the thyroid may be enlarged.  Like postpartum thyroiditis, silent thyroiditis is probably an autoimmune condition and sometimes develops into permanent hypothyroidism. Congenital Hypothyroidism Some babies are born with a thyroid that is not fully developed or does not function properly.  If untreated, congenital hypothyroidism can lead to mental retardation and growth failure.  Early treatment can prevent these complications, so most newborns in the United States are screened for hypothyroidism. Surgical Removal of the Thyroid When part of the thyroid is removed, the remaining part may produce normal amounts of thyroid hormone, but some people who have this surgery develop hypothyroidism.  Removal of the entire thyroid always results in hypothyroidism. Part or all of the thyroid may be surgically removed as a treatment for - hyperthyroidism - a large goiter, which is an enlarged thyroid that may cause the neck to appear swollen and can interfere with normal breathing and swallowing - thyroid nodules, which are noncancerous tumors, called adenomas, or lumps in the thyroid that can produce excess thyroid hormone - thyroid cancer Radiation Treatment of the Thyroid Radioactive iodine, a common treatment for hyperthyroidism, gradually destroys the cells of the thyroid.  Most people who receive radioactive iodine treatment eventually develop hypothyroidism.  People with Hodgkin’s disease, other lymphomas, and head or neck cancers are treated with radiation, which can also damage the thyroid. Medications Some drugs can interfere with thyroid hormone production and lead to hypothyroidism, including - amiodarone, a heart medication - interferon alpha, a cancer medication - lithium, a bipolar disorder medication - interleukin-2, a kidney cancer medication" } ]

[ "hypothyroidism" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q7-S1-A1", "_pairid": "14", "__text": "Clean the wound well with soap and water, and seek professional medical help. You will need a doctor to thoroughly clean the wound and remove any foreign objects. Most of the time, stitches should not be used for animal bite wounds. If there is any risk of rabies, you will be given a series of a preventive vaccine. The vaccine is generally given in 5 doses over 28 days. Most patients also receive a treatment called human rabies immunoglobulin (HRIG). This treatment is given the day the bite occurred. Call your doctor right away after an animal bite or after being exposed to animals such as bats, foxes, and skunks. They may carry rabies. - Call even when no bite took place. - Immunization and treatment for possible rabies are recommended for at least up to 14 days after exposure or a bite. There is no known effective treatment for people with symptoms of a rabies infection, but there have been a few reports of people surviving with experimental treatments." } ]

[ "rabies" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q8-S1-A1", "_pairid": "15", "__text": "Damage from optic nerve atrophy cannot be reversed. The underlying disease must be found and treated. Otherwise, vision loss will continue. Rarely, conditions that lead to optic atrophy may be treatable." } ]

[ "optic nerve atrophy" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q9-S1-A1", "_pairid": "16", "__text": "X-linked congenital stationary night blindness is a disorder of the retina, which is the specialized tissue at the back of the eye that detects light and color. People with this condition typically have difficulty seeing in low light (night blindness). They also have other vision problems, including loss of sharpness (reduced acuity), severe nearsightedness (high myopia), involuntary movements of the eyes (nystagmus), and eyes that do not look in the same direction (strabismus). Color vision is typically not affected by this disorder. The vision problems associated with this condition are congenital, which means they are present from birth. They tend to remain stable (stationary) over time. Researchers have identified two major types of X-linked congenital stationary night blindness: the complete form and the incomplete form. The types have very similar signs and symptoms. However, everyone with the complete form has night blindness, while not all people with the incomplete form have night blindness. The types are distinguished by their genetic cause and by the results of a test called an electroretinogram, which measures the function of the retina." } ]

[ "congenital night blindness" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q10-S1-A1", "_pairid": "17", "__text": "Summary Lewy body disease is one of the most common causes of dementia in the elderly. Dementia is the loss of mental functions severe enough to affect normal activities and relationships. Lewy body disease happens when abnormal structures, called Lewy bodies, build up in areas of the brain. The disease may cause a wide range of symptoms, including - Changes in alertness and attention - Hallucinations - Problems with movement and posture - Muscle stiffness - Confusion - Loss of memory Lewy body disease can be hard to diagnose, because Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease cause similar symptoms. Scientists think that Lewy body disease might be related to these diseases, or that they sometimes happen together. Lewy body disease usually begins between the ages of 50 and 85. The disease gets worse over time. There is no cure. Treatment focuses on drugs to help symptoms. NIH: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke" }, { "_answerid": "Q10-S1-A2", "_pairid": "18", "__text": "Lewy body dementia is one of the most common forms of progressive dementia. People affected by this condition may experience a variety of symptoms such as changes in alertness and attention; hallucinations; problems with movement and posture; muscle stiffness; confusion; and/or memory loss. Although the exact cause of Lewy body dementia is poorly understood, symptoms are thought to result when clumps of a protein called alpha-synuclein (\"Lewy bodies\") accumulate in the brain. Lewy body dementia usually occurs sporadically in people with no family history of the condition. Rarely, more than one family member may be affected. There is currently no cure for Lewy body dementia; however, medications may be available to help manage the associated symptoms." } ]

[ "lewy body dementia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q11-S1-A1", "_pairid": "19", "__text": "Mutations in the BCKDHA, BCKDHB, and DBT genes can cause maple syrup urine disease. These three genes provide instructions for making proteins that work together as a complex. The protein complex is essential for breaking down the amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine, which are present in many kinds of food, particularly protein-rich foods such as milk, meat, and eggs. Mutations in any of these three genes reduce or eliminate the function of the protein complex, preventing the normal breakdown of leucine, isoleucine, and valine. As a result, these amino acids and their byproducts build up in the body. Because high levels of these substances are toxic to the brain and other organs, their accumulation leads to the serious health problems associated with maple syrup urine disease." } ]

[ "maple syrup urine disease" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q11-S2-A1", "_pairid": "20", "__text": "When the condition is diagnosed, and during episodes, treatment involves eating a protein-free diet. Fluids, sugars, and sometimes fats are given through a vein (IV). Dialysis through your belly or a vein can be done to reduce the level of abnormal substances in your blood. Long-term treatment requires a special diet. For infants, the diet includes a formula with low levels of the amino acids leucine, isoleucine, and valine. People with this condition must remain on a diet low in these amino acids for life. It is very important to always follow this diet to prevent nervous system (neurological) damage. This requires frequent blood tests and close supervision by a registered dietitian and physician, as well as cooperation by parents of children with the condition." } ]

[ "maple syrup urine disease" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q12-S1-A1", "_pairid": "21", "__text": "Isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia is rarely inherited. In almost all cases, there is only one affected individual in a family. When congenital diaphragmatic hernia occurs as a feature of a genetic syndrome or chromosomal abnormality, it may cluster in families according to the inheritance pattern for that condition." } ]

[ "cdh" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q13-S1-A1", "_pairid": "23", "__text": "Treatment for thalassemia major often involves regular blood transfusions and folate supplements. If you receive blood transfusions, you should not take iron supplements. Doing so can cause a high amount of iron to build up in the body, which can be harmful. Persons who receive a lot of blood transfusions need a treatment called chelation therapy. This is done to remove excess iron from the body. A bone marrow transplant may help treat the disease in some patients, especially children." } ]

[ "thalassemia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q14-S1-A1", "_pairid": "25", "__text": "Lifestyle changes often can help relieve acute (short-term) insomnia. These changes might make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. A type of counseling called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help relieve the anxiety linked to chronic (ongoing) insomnia. Anxiety tends to prolong insomnia. Several medicines also can help relieve insomnia and re-establish a regular sleep schedule. However, if your insomnia is the symptom or side effect of another problem, it's important to treat the underlying cause (if possible). Lifestyle Changes If you have insomnia, avoid substances that make it worse, such as: Caffeine, tobacco, and other stimulants. The effects of these substances can last as long as 8 hours. Certain over-the-counter and prescription medicines that can disrupt sleep (for example, some cold and allergy medicines). Talk with your doctor about which medicines won't disrupt your sleep. Alcohol. An alcoholic drink before bedtime might make it easier for you to fall asleep. However, alcohol triggers sleep that tends to be lighter than normal. This makes it more likely that you will wake up during the night. Try to adopt bedtime habits that make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Follow a routine that helps you wind down and relax before bed. For example, read a book, listen to soothing music, or take a hot bath. Try to schedule your daily exercise at least 5 to 6 hours before going to bed. Don't eat heavy meals or drink a lot before bedtime. Make your bedroom sleep-friendly. Avoid bright lighting while winding down. Try to limit possible distractions, such as a TV, computer, or pet. Make sure the temperature of your bedroom is cool and comfortable. Your bedroom also should be dark and quiet. Go to sleep around the same time each night and wake up around the same time each morning, even on weekends. If you can, avoid night shifts, alternating schedules, or other things that may disrupt your sleep schedule. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy CBT for insomnia targets the thoughts and actions that can disrupt sleep. This therapy encourages good sleep habits and uses several methods to relieve sleep anxiety. For example, relaxation techniques and biofeedback are used to reduce anxiety. These strategies help you better control your breathing, heart rate, muscles, and mood. CBT also aims to replace sleep anxiety with more positive thinking that links being in bed with being asleep. This method also teaches you what to do if you're unable to fall asleep within a reasonable time. CBT also may involve talking with a therapist one-on-one or in group sessions to help you consider your thoughts and feelings about sleep. This method may encourage you to describe thoughts racing through your mind in terms of how they look, feel, and sound. The goal is for your mind to settle down and stop racing. CBT also focuses on limiting the time you spend in bed while awake. This method involves setting a sleep schedule. At first, you will limit your total time in bed to the typical short length of time you're usually asleep. This schedule might make you even more tired because some of the allotted time in bed will be taken up by problems falling asleep. However, the resulting tiredness is intended to help you get to sleep more quickly. Over time, the length of time spent in bed is increased until you get a full night of sleep. For success with CBT, you may need to see a therapist who is skilled in this approach weekly over 2 to 3 months. CBT works as well as prescription medicine for many people who have chronic insomnia. It also may provide better long-term relief than medicine alone. For people who have insomnia and major depressive disorder, CBT combined with antidepression medicines has shown promise in relieving both conditions. Medicines Prescription Medicines Many prescription medicines are used to treat insomnia. Some are meant for short-term use, while others are meant for longer use. Talk to your doctor about the benefits and side effects of insomnia medicines. For example, insomnia medicines can help you fall asleep, but you may feel groggy in the morning after taking them. Rare side effects of these medicines include sleep eating, sleep walking, or driving while asleep. If you have side effects from an insomnia medicine, or if it doesn't work well, tell your doctor. He or she might prescribe a different medicine. Some insomnia medicines can be habit forming. Ask your doctor about the benefits and risks of insomnia medicines. Over-the-Counter Products Some over-the-counter (OTC) products claim to treat insomnia. These products include melatonin, L-tryptophan supplements, and valerian teas or extracts. The Food and Drug Administration doesn't regulate “natural” products and some food supplements. Thus, the dose and purity of these substances can vary. How well these products work and how safe they are isn't well understood. Some OTC products that contain antihistamines are sold as sleep aids. Although these products might make you sleepy, talk to your doctor before taking them. Antihistamines pose risks for some people. Also, these products may not offer the best treatment for your insomnia. Your doctor can advise you whether these products will benefit you." } ]

[ "insomnia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q15-S1-A1", "_pairid": "26", "__text": "Diabetes insipidus is an uncommon condition in which the kidneys are unable to prevent the excretion of water." }, { "_answerid": "Q15-S1-A2", "_pairid": "27", "__text": "Summary Diabetes insipidus (DI) causes frequent urination. You become extremely thirsty, so you drink. Then you urinate. This cycle can keep you from sleeping or even make you wet the bed. Your body produces lots of urine that is almost all water. DI is different from diabetes mellitus (DM), which involves insulin problems and high blood sugar. The symptoms can be similar. However, DI is related to how your kidneys handle fluids. It's much less common than DM. Urine and blood tests can show which one you have. Usually, DI is caused by a problem with your pituitary gland or your kidneys. Treatment depends on the cause of the problem. Medicines can often help. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases" }, { "_answerid": "Q15-S1-A3", "_pairid": "30", "__text": "Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a rare disease that causes frequent urination. The large volume of urine is diluted, mostly water. To make up for lost water, a person with DI may feel the need to drink large amounts and is likely to urinate frequently, even at night, which can disrupt sleep and, on occasion, cause bedwetting. Because of the excretion of abnormally large volumes of dilute urine, people with DI may quickly become dehydrated if they do not drink enough water. Children with DI may be irritable or listless and may have fever, vomiting, or diarrhea. Milder forms of DI can be managed by drinking enough water, usually between 2 and 2.5 liters a day. DI severe enough to endanger a person's health is rare." } ]

[ "diabetes insipidus" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q16-S1-A1", "_pairid": "36", "__text": "An anal fissure is a small split or tear in the thin moist tissue (mucosa) lining the lower rectum (anus)." } ]

[ "anal fissures" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q17-S1-A1", "_pairid": "37", "__text": "A gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is a type of tumor that occurs in the gastrointestinal tract, most commonly in the stomach or small intestine. The tumors are thought to grow from specialized cells found in the gastrointestinal tract called interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) or precursors to these cells. GISTs are usually found in adults between ages 40 and 70; rarely, children and young adults develop these tumors. The tumors can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). Small tumors may cause no signs or symptoms. However, some people with GISTs may experience pain or swelling in the abdomen, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, or weight loss. Sometimes, tumors cause bleeding, which may lead to low red blood cell counts (anemia) and, consequently, weakness and tiredness. Bleeding into the intestinal tract may cause black and tarry stools, and bleeding into the throat or stomach may cause vomiting of blood. Affected individuals with no family history of GIST typically have only one tumor (called a sporadic GIST). People with a family history of GISTs (called familial GISTs) often have multiple tumors and additional signs or symptoms, including noncancerous overgrowth (hyperplasia) of other cells in the gastrointestinal tract and patches of dark skin on various areas of the body. Some affected individuals have a skin condition called urticaria pigmentosa (also known as cutaneous mastocytosis), which is characterized by raised patches of brownish skin that sting or itch when touched." } ]

[ "gist" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q17-S2-A1", "_pairid": "38", "__text": "For patients with primary, localized gastrointestinal stromal tumors, surgery with complete excision is the treatment of choice.[1] However, surgery has limited efficacy in the treatment of recurrent and metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumors. These tumors are also resistant to both chemotherapy and radiotherapy. In the pre-imatinib era, the 5-year survival rate after the surgical resection of gastrointestinal stromal tumors was only 43%–80% as there was really no efficient method to cure the disease.[2] The addition of imatinib as part of the treatment of unresectable or recurrent gastrointestinal stromal tumors has improved the management of this condition and resulted in improved patient survival.[1][2] Last updated: 4/27/2010 FDA-Approved Treatments The medication(s) listed below have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as orphan products for treatment of this condition. Learn more orphan products. Imatinib mesylate (Brand name: Gleevec®) - Manufactured by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp. FDA-approved indication: Treatment of patients with Kit (CD117) positive unresectable and/or metastatic malignant gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) National Library of Medicine Drug Information Portal Regorafenib (Brand name: Stivarga) - Manufactured by Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals, Inc. FDA-approved indication: Treatment of patients with locally advanced, unresectable or metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) who have been previously treated with imatinib mesylate and sunitinib malate. National Library of Medicine Drug Information Portal Medline Plus Health Information Pazopanib (Brand name: Votrient) - Manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline FDA-approved indication: Advanced soft tissue sarcoma (STS) who have received prior chemotherapy. National Library of Medicine Drug Information Portal Medline Plus Health Information" } ]

[ "gist" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q18-S1-A1", "_pairid": "39", "__text": "Spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 (SCA3) is a condition characterized by progressive problems with movement. People with this condition initially experience problems with coordination and balance (ataxia). Other early signs and symptoms of SCA3 include speech difficulties, uncontrolled muscle tensing (dystonia), muscle stiffness (spasticity), rigidity, tremors, bulging eyes, and double vision. People with this condition may experience sleep disorders such as restless leg syndrome or REM sleep behavior disorder. Restless leg syndrome is a condition characterized by numbness or tingling in the legs accompanied by an urge to move the legs to stop the sensations. REM sleep behavior disorder is a condition in which the muscles are active during the dream (REM) stage of sleep, so an affected person often acts out his or her dreams. These sleep disorders tend to leave affected individuals feeling tired during the day. Over time, individuals with SCA3 may develop loss of sensation and weakness in the limbs (peripheral neuropathy), muscle cramps, muscle twitches (fasciculations), and swallowing difficulties. Individuals with SCA3 may have problems with memory, planning, and problem solving. Signs and symptoms of the disorder typically begin in mid-adulthood but can appear anytime from childhood to late adulthood. People with SCA3 eventually require wheelchair assistance. They usually survive 10 to 20 years after symptoms first appear." } ]

[ "sca3" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q18-S2-A1", "_pairid": "40", "__text": "Additional Information & Resources MedlinePlus (4 links) Encyclopedia: Movement--Uncoordinated Health Topic: Balance Problems Health Topic: Cerebellar Disorders Health Topic: Movement Disorders Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (1 link) Spinocerebellar ataxia 3 Additional NIH Resources (1 link) National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Ataxias and Cerebellar or Spinocerebellar Degeneration Information Page Educational Resources (6 links) Disease InfoSearch: Spinocerebellar ataxia 3 Johns Hopkins Medicine Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery: What is Ataxia? MalaCards: machado-joseph disease Merck Manual Home Edition for Patients and Caregivers: Coordination Disorders National Ataxia Foundation: Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3 (PDF) Washington University, St. Louis: Neuromuscular Disease Center Patient Support and Advocacy Resources (4 links) Family Caregiver Alliance National Ataxia Foundation National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Autosomal Dominant Hereditary Ataxia University of Kansas Medical Center Resource List: Ataxia GeneReviews (1 link) Spinocerebellar Ataxia Type 3 ClinicalTrials.gov (1 link) ClinicalTrials.gov Scientific Articles on PubMed (1 link) PubMed OMIM (1 link) MACHADO-JOSEPH DISEASE" } ]

[ "sca3" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q19-S1-A1", "_pairid": "41", "__text": "There is no specific cure for migraine headaches. The goal is to treat your migraine symptoms right away, and to prevent symptoms by avoiding or changing your triggers. A key step is learning how to manage your migraines at home. A headache diary can help you identify your headache triggers. Then you and your doctor can plan how to avoid these triggers. If you have frequent migraines, your doctor may prescribe medicine to reduce the number of attacks. You need to take the medicine every day for it to be effective. Medicines may include: - Antidepressants - Blood pressure medicines - Seizure medicines Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) injections may also help reduce migraine attacks if they occur more than 15 days a month. Some people find relief with minerals and vitamins. Check with your doctor to see if riboflavin or magnesium are right for you. TREATING AN ATTACK Other medicines are taken at the first sign of a migraine attack. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin are often helpful when your migraine is mild. Be aware that: - Taking medicines more than 3 days a week may lead to rebound headaches. These are headaches that keep coming back due to overuse of pain medicine. - Taking too much acetaminophen can damage your liver. - Too much ibuprofen or aspirin can irritate your stomach or kidneys. If these treatments do not help, ask your doctor about prescription medicines. These include nasal sprays, suppositories, or injections. Some migraine medicines narrow the blood vessels. If you are at risk for having a heart attack or have heart disease, talk with your doctor before using these medicines. Some migraine medicines should not be used by pregnant women. Talk with your doctor about which medicine is right for you if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Other medicines treat symptoms of migraine, such as nausea and vomiting. They may be used alone or along with the other drugs that treat the migraine itself. Feverfew is a herb for migraines. It can be effective for some people. Before using feverfew, make sure your doctor approves. Herbal remedies sold in drugstores and health food stores are not regulated. Work with a trained herbalist when selecting herbs." } ]

[ "migraines" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q20-S1-A1", "_pairid": "42", "__text": "Congenital heart disease is a problem with the heart's structure and function that is present at birth." } ]

[ "congenital heart disease" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q21-S1-A1", "_pairid": "46", "__text": "Most of the time, RA affects joints on both sides of the body equally. Wrists, fingers, knees, feet, and ankles are the most commonly affected. The disease often begins slowly. Early symptoms may include minor joint pain, stiffness, and fatigue. Joint symptoms may include: - Morning stiffness, which lasts more than 1 hour, is common. Joints may feel warm, tender, and stiff when not used for an hour. - Joint pain is often felt on the same joint on both sides of the body. - Over time, joints may lose their range of motion and may become deformed. Other symptoms include: - Chest pain when taking a breath (pleurisy) - Dry eyes and mouth (Sjogren syndrome) - Eye burning, itching, and discharge - Nodules under the skin (usually a sign of more severe disease) - Numbness, tingling, or burning in the hands and feet - Sleep difficulties" }, { "_answerid": "Q21-S1-A2", "_pairid": "47", "__text": "Swelling and Pain in the Joints Different types of arthritis have different symptoms. In general, people with most forms of arthritis have pain and stiffness in their joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by inflammation of the joint lining. This inflammation causes warmth, redness, swelling, and pain around the joints. A person also feels sick, tired, and sometimes feverish. Rheumatoid arthritis generally occurs in a symmetrical pattern. If one knee or hand is affected, the other one is also likely to be affected. Diagnostic Tests Rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages for several reasons. There is no single test for the disease. In addition, symptoms differ from person to person and can be more severe in some people than in others. Common tests for rheumatoid arthritis include - The rheumatoid factor test. Rheumatoid factor is an antibody that is present eventually in the blood of most people with rheumatoid arthritis However, not all people with rheumatoid arthritis test positive for rheumatoid factor, especially early in the disease. Also, some people who do test positive never develop the disease. The rheumatoid factor test. Rheumatoid factor is an antibody that is present eventually in the blood of most people with rheumatoid arthritis However, not all people with rheumatoid arthritis test positive for rheumatoid factor, especially early in the disease. Also, some people who do test positive never develop the disease. - The citrulline antibody test. This blood test detects antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP). This test is positive in most people with rheumatoid arthritis and can even be positive years before rheumatoid arthritis symptoms develop. When used with the rheumatoid factor test, the citrulline antibody test results are very useful in confirming a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis. The citrulline antibody test. This blood test detects antibodies to cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP). This test is positive in most people with rheumatoid arthritis and can even be positive years before rheumatoid arthritis symptoms develop. When used with the rheumatoid factor test, the citrulline antibody test results are very useful in confirming a rheumatoid arthritis diagnosis. Other common tests for rheumatoid arthritis include - the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which indicates the presence of inflammation in the body - a test for white blood cell count and - a blood test for anemia. the erythrocyte sedimentation rate, which indicates the presence of inflammation in the body a test for white blood cell count and a blood test for anemia. Diagnosis Can Take Time Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can be similar to those of other types of arthritis and joint conditions, and it may take some time to rule out other conditions. The full range of symptoms develops over time, and only a few symptoms may be present in the early stages. Learn more about how rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed." }, { "_answerid": "Q21-S1-A3", "_pairid": "48", "__text": "Rheumatoid arthritis is characterized by inflammation of the joint lining. This inflammation causes warmth, redness, swelling, and pain around the joints. The pain of rheumatoid arthritis varies greatly from person to person, for reasons that doctors do not yet understand completely. Factors that contribute to the pain include swelling within the joint, the amount of heat or redness present, or damage that has occurred within the joint." } ]

[ "rheumatoid arthritis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q22-S1-A1", "_pairid": "49", "__text": "If you smoke, now is the time to quit. If you are having trouble quitting, talk with your doctor. There are many methods to help you quit, from support groups to prescription medicines. Also, try to avoid secondhand smoke." } ]

[ "lung cancer" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q23-S1-A1", "_pairid": "50", "__text": "Eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and throat: - Blurred vision - Vision disturbances, including halos Gastrointestinal: - Diarrhea - Loss of appetite - Nausea - Stomach pain - Vomiting Heart and blood: - Irregular or slow heartbeat - Low blood pressure - Weakness Nervous system: - Confusion - Death - Depression - Disorientation - Dizziness - Drowsiness - Fainting - Headache - Lethargy Skin: - Hives - Rash Note: Depression, loss of appetite, and halos are usually only seen in chronic overdose cases." } ]

[ "oleander poisoning" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q24-S1-A1", "_pairid": "51", "__text": "If you have diabetes, nerve damage in the leg or foot, poor blood circulation to your foot, or an infection around the nail, go to the doctor right away. Do not try to treat an ingrown nail at home. Otherwise, to treat an ingrown nail at home: - Soak the foot in warm water 3 to 4 times a day if possible. After soaking, keep the toe dry. - Gently massage over the inflamed skin. - Place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the nail. Wet the cotton with water or antiseptic. When trimming your toenails: - Briefly soak your foot in warm water to soften the nail. - Use a clean, sharp trimmer. - Trim toenails straight across the top. Do not taper or round the corners or trim too short. Do not try to cut out the ingrown portion of the nail yourself. This will only make the problem worse. Consider wearing sandals until the problem goes away. Over-the-counter medicine that is applied to the ingrown toenail may help with the pain, but it does not treat the problem. If this does not work and the ingrown nail gets worse, see your family doctor, a foot specialist (podiatrist) or a skin specialist (dermatologist). If your ingrown nail does not heal or keeps coming back, your doctor may remove part of the nail: - Numbing medicine is first injected into the toe. - The doctor uses scissors to cut along the edge of the nail where the skin is growing over. This portion of the nail is removed. This procedure is called a partial nail avulsion. - It takes 2 to 4 months for the nail to regrow. Sometimes your doctor will use a chemical, electrical current, or another small surgical cut to destroy or remove the area from which a new nail may grow. If the toe is infected, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics." } ]

[ "ingrown toenail" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q25-S1-A1", "_pairid": "52", "__text": "Treatment for Friedreich ataxia includes: - Counseling - Speech therapy - Physical therapy - Walking aids or wheelchairs Orthopedic devices (braces) may be needed for scoliosis and foot problems. Treating heart disease and diabetes help people live longer and improve their quality of life." }, { "_answerid": "Q25-S1-A2", "_pairid": "53", "__text": "These resources address the diagnosis or management of Friedreich ataxia: - Friedreich's Ataxia Research Alliance: Clinical Care Guidelines - Gene Review: Gene Review: Friedreich Ataxia - Genetic Testing Registry: Friedreich ataxia 1 - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Friedreich's Ataxia - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy - National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Friedreich's Ataxia Fact Sheet These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care" }, { "_answerid": "Q25-S1-A3", "_pairid": "54", "__text": "There is currently no effective cure or treatment for Friedreich's ataxia. However, many of the symptoms and accompanying complications can be treated to help individuals maintain optimal functioning as long as possible. Diabetes and heart problems can be treated with medications. Orthopedic problems such as foot deformities and scoliosis can be treated with braces or surgery. Physical therapy may prolong use of the arms and legs." } ]

[ "friedreich's ataxia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q26-S1-A1", "_pairid": "55", "__text": "Diagnostic testing does not find any physical cause for the symptoms. The doctor will do a physical exam and may order diagnostic tests. These are to make sure there are no physical causes for the symptom." } ]

[ "conversion disorder" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q27-S1-A1", "_pairid": "56", "__text": "These resources address the diagnosis or management of spastic paraplegia type 11: - Gene Review: Gene Review: Spastic Paraplegia 11 - Genetic Testing Registry: Spastic paraplegia 11, autosomal recessive - Spastic Paraplegia Foundation, Inc.: Treatments and Therapies These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care" } ]

[ "spg11" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q28-S1-A1", "_pairid": "57", "__text": "Most fissures heal on their own and do not need treatment. To prevent or treat anal fissures in infants, be sure to change diapers often and clean the area gently. CHILDREN AND ADULTS Worrying about pain during a bowel movement may cause a person to avoid them. But not having bowel movements will only cause the stools to become even harder, which can make anal fissure worse. Prevent hard stools and constipation by: - Making dietary changes -- eating more fiber or bulk, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains - Drinking more fluids - Using stool softeners Applying the following ointments or creams to the area may soothe the skin: - Numbing cream, if pain interferes with normal bowel movements - Petroleum jelly - Zinc oxide, 1% hydrocortisone cream, Preparation H, and other products A sitz bath is a warm water bath used for healing or cleansing. You should sit in the bath two to three times a day. The water should cover only your hips and buttocks. If the anal fissures do not go away with home care methods, treatment may involve: - Botox injections into the muscle in the anus (anal sphincter) - Minor surgery to relax the anal muscle - Prescription creams such as nitrates or calcium channel blockers, applied over the fissure to help relax the muscles" } ]

[ "anal fissure" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q29-S1-A1", "_pairid": "58", "__text": "Treatment usually only helps when started very early in the course of the disease. Injections of copper into a vein or under the skin have been used with mixed results." }, { "_answerid": "Q29-S1-A2", "_pairid": "59", "__text": "These resources address the diagnosis or management of Menkes syndrome: - Gene Review: Gene Review: ATP7A-Related Copper Transport Disorders - Genetic Testing Registry: Menkes kinky-hair syndrome - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Copper in diet - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Menkes syndrome These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care" } ]

[ "menkes syndrome" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q30-S1-A1", "_pairid": "60", "__text": "Nephrotic syndrome is a group of symptoms that include protein in the urine, low blood protein levels in the blood, high cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels, and swelling." } ]

[ "nephrotic syndrome" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q30-S2-A1", "_pairid": "61", "__text": "Nephrotic syndrome is caused by different disorders that damage the kidneys. This damage leads to the release of too much protein in the urine. The most common cause in children is minimal change disease. Membranous glomerulonephritis is the most common cause in adults. In both diseases, the glomeruli in the kidneys are damaged. Glomeruli are the structures that help filter wastes and fluids. This condition can also occur from: - Cancer - Diseases such as diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus, multiple myeloma, and amyloidosis - Genetic disorders - Immune disorders - Infections (such as strep throat, hepatitis, or mononucleosis) - Use of certain drugs It can occur with kidney disorders such as: - Focal and segmental glomerulosclerosis - Glomerulonephritis - Mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis Nephrotic syndrome can affect all age groups. In children, it is most common between ages 2 and 6. This disorder occurs slightly more often in males than females." } ]

[ "nephrotic syndrome" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q30-S3-A1", "_pairid": "62", "__text": "The goals of treatment are to relieve symptoms, prevent complications, and delay kidney damage. To control nephrotic syndrome, the disorder that is causing it must be treated. You may need treatment for life. Treatments may include any of the following: - Keeping blood pressure at or below 130/80 mm Hg to delay kidney damage. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are the medicines most often used. ACE inhibitors and ARBs may also help decrease the amount of protein lost in the urine. - Corticosteroids and other drugs that suppress or quiet the immune system. - Treating high cholesterol to reduce the risk of heart and blood vessel problems. A low-fat, low-cholesterol diet is usually not enough for people with nephrotic syndrome. Medicines to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides (usually statins) may be needed. - A low-salt diet may help with swelling in the hands and legs. Water pills (diuretics) may also help with this problem. - Low-protein diets may be helpful. Your health care provider may suggest a moderate-protein diet (1 gram [gm] of protein per kilogram [kg] of body weight per day). - Taking vitamin D supplements if nephrotic syndrome is long-term and is not responding to treatment. - Taking blood thinner drugs to treat or prevent blood clots." } ]

[ "nephrotic syndrome" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q31-S1-A1", "_pairid": "63", "__text": "Individual and family therapy is recommended for children to create a supportive environment at home and in school. Individual and, if appropriate, couples therapy is recommended for adults. Sex reassignment through surgery and hormonal therapy is an option. But identity problems may continue after this treatment." } ]

[ "gender dysphoria" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q32-S1-A1", "_pairid": "64", "__text": "Septic shock has a high death rate. The death rate depends on the patient's age and overall health, the cause of the infection, how many organs have failed, and how quickly and aggressively medical therapy is started." } ]

[ "septic shock" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q33-S1-A1", "_pairid": "65", "__text": "Treatment depends on the cause. Cushing syndrome caused by corticosteroid use: - Your doctor will instruct you to slowly decrease the medicine dosage. Stopping the medicine suddenly can be dangerous. - If you cannot stop taking the medicine because of disease, your high blood sugar, high cholesterol levels, and bone thinning or osteoporosis should be closely monitored. With Cushing syndrome caused by a pituitary or a tumor that releases ACTH (Cushing disease), you may need: - Surgery to remove the tumor. - Radiation after removal of a pituitary tumor in some cases. - Cortisol replacement therapy after surgery and possibly for the rest of your life. With Cushing syndrome due to an adrenal tumor or other tumors: - You may need surgery to remove the tumor. - If the tumor cannot be removed, you may need medicines to help block the release of cortisol." } ]

[ "cushing" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q34-S1-A1", "_pairid": "66", "__text": "Treatment usually cures the infection. About 3% of people who get this disease will die." } ]

[ "rocky mountain spotted fever" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q34-S2-A1", "_pairid": "67", "__text": "If diagnosed in the early stages, Lyme disease can be cured with antibiotics. Without treatment, complications involving the joints, heart, and nervous system can occur. But these symptoms are still treatable and curable. In rare cases, a person keeps having symptoms that interfere with daily life after they have been treated with antibiotics. This is also known as post-Lyme disease syndrome. The cause of this syndrome is unknown. Symptoms that occur after antibiotics are stopped may not be signs of active infection and may not respond to antibiotic treatment." } ]

[ "lyme disease" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q35-S1-A1", "_pairid": "68", "__text": "Controlling blood pressure will slow further kidney damage. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) are used most often. The goal is to keep blood pressure at or below 130/80 mm Hg. Making lifestyle changes can help protect the kidneys, and prevent heart disease and stroke, such as: DO NOT smoke.\nEat meals that are low in fat and cholesterol. Get regular exercise (talk to your doctor or nurse before starting to exercise). Take drugs to lower your cholesterol, if needed. Keep your blood sugar under control. Avoid eating too much salt or potassium. Always talk to your kidney specialist before taking any over-the-counter medicine. This includes vitamins, herbs and supplements. Make sure all of the providers you visit know you have CKD. Other treatments may include: Medicines called phosphate binders, to help prevent high phosphorous levels Extra iron in the diet, iron pills, iron given through a vein (intravenous iron) special shots of a medicine called erythropoietin, and blood transfusions to treat anemia Extra calcium and vitamin D (always talk to your provider before taking) Your provider may have you follow a special diet for CKD. Limiting fluids Eating less protein Restricting salt, potassium, phosphorous, and other electrolytes Getting enough calories to prevent weight loss All people with CKD should be up-to-date on the following vaccinations: Hepatitis A vaccine Hepatitis B vaccine Flu vaccine Pneumonia vaccine (PPV)" } ]

[ "chronic renal failure" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q36-S1-A1", "_pairid": "70", "__text": "Leber congenital amaurosis is an eye disorder that primarily affects the retina, which is the specialized tissue at the back of the eye that detects light and color. People with this disorder typically have severe visual impairment beginning in infancy. The visual impairment tends to be stable, although it may worsen very slowly over time. Leber congenital amaurosis is also associated with other vision problems, including an increased sensitivity to light (photophobia), involuntary movements of the eyes (nystagmus), and extreme farsightedness (hyperopia). The pupils, which usually expand and contract in response to the amount of light entering the eye, do not react normally to light. Instead, they expand and contract more slowly than normal, or they may not respond to light at all. Additionally, the clear front covering of the eye (the cornea) may be cone-shaped and abnormally thin, a condition known as keratoconus. A specific behavior called Franceschetti's oculo-digital sign is characteristic of Leber congenital amaurosis. This sign consists of poking, pressing, and rubbing the eyes with a knuckle or finger. Researchers suspect that this behavior may contribute to deep-set eyes and keratoconus in affected children. In rare cases, delayed development and intellectual disability have been reported in people with the features of Leber congenital amaurosis. However, researchers are uncertain whether these individuals actually have Leber congenital amaurosis or another syndrome with similar signs and symptoms. At least 13 types of Leber congenital amaurosis have been described. The types are distinguished by their genetic cause, patterns of vision loss, and related eye abnormalities." } ]

[ "leber amaurosis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q37-S1-A1", "_pairid": "71", "__text": "When possible, the cause of cardiomyopathy is treated. Medicines and lifestyle changes are often needed to treat the symptoms of heart failure, angina, and abnormal heart rhythms. Procedures or surgeries may also be used, including: - A defibrillator that sends an electrical pulse to stop life-threatening abnormal heart rhythms - A pacemaker that treats a slow heart rate or helps both sides of the heart beat at the same time - Coronary artery bypass (CABG) surgery or angioplasty that may improve blood flow to the damaged or weakened heart muscle - Heart transplant that may be tried when all other treatments have failed Recently, implantable artificial heart pumps have been developed. These may be used for very severe cases. However, not all patients need or are able to have this advanced treatment." }, { "_answerid": "Q37-S1-A2", "_pairid": "72", "__text": "People who have cardiomyopathy but no signs or symptoms may not need treatment. Sometimes, dilated cardiomyopathy that comes on suddenly may go away on its own. For other people who have cardiomyopathy, treatment is needed. Treatment depends on the type of cardiomyopathy you have, the severity of your symptoms and complications, and your age and overall health. Treatments may include: Heart-healthy lifestyle changes Medicines Nonsurgical procedure Surgery and implanted devices The main goals of treating cardiomyopathy include: Controlling signs and symptoms so that you can live as normally as possible Managing any conditions that cause or contribute to the disease Reducing complications and the risk of sudden cardiac arrest Stopping the disease from getting worse Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Changes Your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes to manage a condition that’s causing your cardiomyopathy including: Heart-healthy eating Maintaining a healthy weight Managing stress Physical activity Quitting smoking Heart-Healthy Eating Your doctor may recommend heart-healthy eating, which should include: Fat-free or low-fat dairy products, such as fat-free milk Fish high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, and trout, about twice a week Fruits, such as apples, bananas, oranges, pears, and prunes Legumes, such as kidney beans, lentils, chickpeas, black-eyed peas, and lima beans Vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and carrots Whole grains, such as oatmeal, brown rice, and corn tortillas When following a heart-healthy diet, you should avoid eating: A lot of red meat Palm and coconut oils Sugary foods and beverages Two nutrients in your diet make blood cholesterol levels rise: Saturated fat—found mostly in foods that come from animals Trans fat (trans fatty acids)—found in foods made with hydrogenated oils and fats such as stick margarine; baked goods such as, cookies, cakes, and pies, crackers, frostings, and coffee creamers. Some trans fats also occur naturally in animal fats and meats. Saturated fat raises your blood cholesterol more than anything else in your diet. When you follow a heart-healthy eating plan, only 5 percent to 6 percent of your daily calories should come from saturated fat. Food labels list the amounts of saturated fat. To help you stay on track, here are some examples: Not all fats are bad. Monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats actually help lower blood cholesterol levels. Some sources of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are: Avocados Corn, sunflower, and soybean oils Nuts and seeds, such as walnuts Olive, canola, peanut, safflower, and sesame oils Peanut butter Salmon and trout Tofu Sodium Try to limit the amount of sodium that you eat. This means choosing and preparing foods that are lower in salt and sodium. Try to use low-sodium and “no added salt” foods and seasonings at the table or while cooking. Food labels tell you what you need to know about choosing foods that are lower in sodium. Try to eat no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium a day. If you have high blood pressure, you may need to restrict your sodium intake even more. Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension Your doctor may recommend the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) eating plan if you have high blood pressure. The DASH eating plan focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other foods that are heart healthy and low in fat, cholesterol, and sodium and salt. The DASH eating plan is a good heart-healthy eating plan, even for those who don’t have high blood pressure. Read more about DASH. Alcohol Talk to your doctor about how much alcohol you drink. Too much alcohol can raise your blood pressure and triglyceride levels, a type of fat found in the blood. Alcohol also adds extra calories, which may cause weight gain. Your doctor may recommend that you reduce the amount of alcohol you drink or stop drinking alcohol. Maintaining a Healthy Weight Maintaining a healthy weight is important for overall health and can lower your risk for coronary heart disease. Aim for a Healthy Weight by following a heart-healthy eating plan and keeping physically active. Knowing your body mass index (BMI) helps you find out if you’re a healthy weight in relation to your height and gives an estimate of your total body fat. To figure out your BMI, check out the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute’s (NHLBI) online BMI calculator or talk to your doctor. A BMI: Below 18.5 is a sign that you are underweight. Between 18.5 and 24.9 is in the normal range. Between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight. Of 30 or more is considered obese. A general goal to aim for is a BMI of less than 25. Your doctor or health care provider can help you set an appropriate BMI goal. Measuring waist circumference helps screen for possible health risks. If most of your fat is around your waist rather than at your hips, you’re at a higher risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes. This risk may be high with a waist size that is greater than 35 inches for women or greater than 40 inches for men. To learn how to measure your waist, visit Assessing Your Weight and Health Risk. If you’re overweight or obese, try to lose weight. A loss of just 3 percent to 5 percent of your current weight can lower your triglycerides, blood glucose, and the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Greater amounts of weight loss can improve blood pressure readings, lower LDL cholesterol, and increase HDL cholesterol.  Managing Stress Research shows that the most commonly reported “trigger” for a heart attack is an emotionally upsetting event—particularly one involving anger. Also, some of the ways people cope with stress—such as drinking, smoking, or overeating—aren’t healthy. Learning how to manage stress, relax, and cope with problems can improve your emotional and physical health. Consider healthy stress-reducing activities, such as: A stress management program Meditation Physical activity Relaxation therapy Talking things out with friends or family  Physical Activity Routine physical activity can lower many risk factors for coronary heart disease, including LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, high blood pressure, and excess weight. Physical activity also can lower your risk for diabetes and raise your HDL cholesterol level. HDL is the “good” cholesterol that helps prevent coronary heart disease. Everyone should try to participate in moderate intensity aerobic exercise at least 2 hours and 30 minutes per week, or vigorous intensity aerobic exercise for 1 hour and 15 minutes per week. Aerobic exercise, such as brisk walking, is any exercise in which your heart beats faster and you use more oxygen than usual. The more active you are, the more you will benefit. Participate in aerobic exercise for at least 10 minutes at a time spread throughout the week. Read more about physical activity at: Physical Activity and Your Heart U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans Talk with your doctor before you start a new exercise plan. Ask your doctor how much and what kinds of physical activity are safe for you. Quitting Smoking If you smoke, quit. Smoking can raise your risk for coronary heart disease and heart attack and worsen other coronary heart disease risk factors. Talk with your doctor about programs and products that can help you quit smoking. Also, try to avoid secondhand smoke. If you have trouble quitting smoking on your own, consider joining a support group. Many hospitals, workplaces, and community groups offer classes to help people quit smoking. Read more about quitting smoking at Smoking and Your Heart.   Medicines Many medicines are used to treat cardiomyopathy. Your doctor may prescribe medicines to: Balance electrolytes in your body. Electrolytes are minerals that help maintain fluid levels and acid-base balance in the body. They also help muscle and nerve tissues work properly. Abnormal electrolyte levels may be a sign of dehydration (lack of fluid in your body), heart failure, high blood pressure, or other disorders. Aldosterone blockers are an example of a medicine used to balance electrolytes. Keep your heart beating with a normal rhythm. These medicines, called antiarrhythmics, help prevent arrhythmias. Lower your blood pressure. ACE inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers, beta blockers, and calcium channel blockers are examples of medicines that lower blood pressure. Prevent blood clots from forming. Anticoagulants, or blood thinners, are an example of a medicine that prevents blood clots. Blood thinners often are used to prevent blood clots from forming in people who have dilated cardiomyopathy. Reduce inflammation. Corticosteroids are an example of a medicine used to reduce inflammation.  Remove excess sodium from your body. Diuretics, or water pills, are an example of medicines that help remove excess sodium from the body, which reduces the amount of fluid in your blood. Slow your heart rate. Beta blockers, calcium channel blockers, and digoxin are examples of medicines that slow the heart rate. Beta blockers and calcium channel blockers also are used to lower blood pressure. Take all medicines regularly, as your doctor prescribes. Don’t change the amount of your medicine or skip a dose unless your doctor tells you to. ​Surgery and Implanted Devices Doctors use several types of surgery to treat cardiomyopathy, including septal myectomy, surgically implanted devices, and heart transplant. Septal Myectomy Septal myectomy is open-heart surgery and is used to treat people who have hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and severe symptoms. This surgery generally is used for younger patients and for people whose medicines aren’t working well. A surgeon removes part of the thickened septum that’s bulging into the left ventricle. This improves blood flow through the heart and out to the body. The removed tissue doesn’t grow back. If needed, the surgeon also can repair or replace the mitral valve at the same time. Septal myectomy often is successful and allows you to return to a normal life with no symptoms. Surgically Implanted Devices Surgeons can place several types of devices in the heart to improve function and symptoms, including: Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) device. A CRT device coordinates contractions between the heart’s left and right ventricles. Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). An ICD helps control life-threatening arrhythmias that may lead to sudden cardiac arrest. This small device is implanted in the chest or abdomen and connected to the heart with wires. If an ICD senses a dangerous change in heart rhythm, it will send an electric shock to the heart to restore a normal heartbeat. Left ventricular assist device (LVAD). This device helps the heart pump blood to the body. An LVAD can be used as a long-term therapy or as a short-term treatment for people who are waiting for a heart transplant. Pacemaker. This small device is placed under the skin of your chest or abdomen to help control arrhythmias. The device uses electrical pulses to prompt the heart to beat at a normal rate. Heart Transplant For this surgery, a surgeon replaces a person’s diseased heart with a healthy heart from a deceased donor. A heart transplant is a last resort treatment for people who have end-stage heart failure. “End-stage” means the condition has become so severe that all treatments, other than heart transplant, have failed. For more information about this treatment, go to the Heart Transplant Health Topic. Nonsurgical Procedure Doctors may use a nonsurgical procedure called alcohol septal ablation to treat cardiomyopathy. During this procedure, the doctor injects ethanol (a type of alcohol) through a tube into the small artery that supplies blood to the thickened area of heart muscle. The alcohol kills cells, and the thickened tissue shrinks to a more normal size. This procedure allows blood to flow freely through the ventricle, which improves symptoms." } ]

[ "cardiomyopathy" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q37-S2-A1", "_pairid": "73", "__text": "The outlook depends on many different things, including: - Cause and type of cardiomyopathy - How well the condition responds to treatment - The severity of the heart problem Heart failure is usually a long-term (chronic) illness. It may get worse over time. Some people develop severe heart failure. In this case, medicines, surgery, and other treatments may no longer help. Patients with certain types of cardiomyopathy are at risk for dangerous heart rhythm problems." } ]

[ "cardiomyopathy" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q38-S1-A1", "_pairid": "74", "__text": "Albinism is a defect of melanin production that results in little or no color (pigment) in the skin, hair, and eyes." }, { "_answerid": "Q38-S1-A2", "_pairid": "75", "__text": "Albinism is a group of inherited disorders that results in little or no production of the pigment melanin, which determines the color of the skin, hair and eyes. Melanin also plays a role in the development of certain optical nerves, so all forms of albinism cause problems with the development and function of the eyes. Other symptoms can include light skin or changes in skin color; very white to brown hair; very light blue to brown eye color that may appear red in some light and may change with age; sensitivity to sun exposure; and increased risk of developing skin cancer. Albinism is caused by mutations in one of several genes, and most types are inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. Although there's no cure, people with the disorder can take steps to improve vision and avoid too much sun exposure." } ]

[ "albinism" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q39-S1-A1", "_pairid": "78", "__text": "Fluids and electrolytes may be given by IV (into a vein) or you may be asked to drink water with electrolyte packets. Antibiotics are given to kill the bacteria. There are increasing rates of antibiotic resistance throughout the world, so your health care provider will check current recommendations before choosing an antibiotic." } ]

[ "typhoid" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q40-S1-A1", "_pairid": "79", "__text": "You can make many lifestyle changes to help treat your symptoms. Other tips include: - If you are overweight or obese, in many cases, losing weight can help. - Avoid drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn). Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve pain. - Take all of your medicines with plenty of water. When your doctor gives you a new medicine, ask whether it will make your heartburn worse. You may use over-the-counter antacids after meals and at bedtime, although the relief may not last very long. Common side effects of antacids include diarrhea or constipation. Other over-the-counter and prescription drugs can treat GERD. They work more slowly than antacids, but give you longer relief. Your pharmacist, doctor, or nurse can tell you how to take these drugs. - Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) decrease the amount of acid produced in your stomach - H2 blockers also lower the amount of acid released in the stomach Anti-reflux surgery may be an option for people whose symptoms do not go away with lifestyle changes and medicines. Heartburn and other symptoms should improve after surgery. But you may still need to take drugs for your heartburn. There are also new therapies for reflux that can be performed through an endoscope (a flexible tube passed through the mouth into the stomach)." } ]

[ "gerd" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q41-S1-A1", "_pairid": "81", "__text": "Most often, hemophilia is diagnosed after a person has an abnormal bleeding episode. It can also be diagnosed by a blood test done to detect the problem, if other family members have the condition." }, { "_answerid": "Q41-S1-A2", "_pairid": "82", "__text": "If you or your child appears to have a bleeding problem, your doctor will ask about your personal and family medical histories. This will reveal whether you or your family members, including women and girls, have bleeding problems. However, some people who have hemophilia have no recent family history of the disease. You or your child also will likely have a physical exam and blood tests to diagnose hemophilia. Blood tests are used to find out: How long it takes for your blood to clot Whether your blood has low levels of any clotting factors Whether any clotting factors are completely missing from your blood The test results will show whether you have hemophilia, what type of hemophilia you have, and how severe it is. Hemophilia A and B are classified as mild, moderate, or severe, depending on the amount of clotting factor VIII or IX in the blood. The severity of symptoms can overlap between the categories. For example, some people who have mild hemophilia may have bleeding problems almost as often or as severe as some people who have moderate hemophilia. Severe hemophilia can cause serious bleeding problems in babies. Thus, children who have severe hemophilia usually are diagnosed during the first year of life. People who have milder forms of hemophilia may not be diagnosed until they're adults. The bleeding problems of hemophilia A and hemophilia B are the same. Only special blood tests can tell which type of the disorder you or your child has. Knowing which type is important because the treatments are different. Pregnant women who are known hemophilia carriers can have the disorder diagnosed in their unborn babies as early as 12 weeks into their pregnancies. Women who are hemophilia carriers also can have \"preimplantation diagnosis\" to have children who don't have hemophilia. For this process, women have their eggs removed and fertilized by sperm in a laboratory. The embryos are then tested for hemophilia. Only embryos without the disorder are implanted in the womb." } ]

[ "hemophilia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q42-S1-A1", "_pairid": "83", "__text": "Knock knees are not treated in most cases. If the problem continues after age 7, the child may use a night brace. This brace is attached to a shoe. Surgery may be considered for knock knees that are severe and continue beyond late childhood." } ]

[ "knock knees" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q43-S1-A1", "_pairid": "84", "__text": "You can make many lifestyle changes to help treat your symptoms. Other tips include: - If you are overweight or obese, in many cases, losing weight can help. - Avoid drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn). Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve pain. - Take all of your medicines with plenty of water. When your doctor gives you a new medicine, ask whether it will make your heartburn worse. You may use over-the-counter antacids after meals and at bedtime, although the relief may not last very long. Common side effects of antacids include diarrhea or constipation. Other over-the-counter and prescription drugs can treat GERD. They work more slowly than antacids, but give you longer relief. Your pharmacist, doctor, or nurse can tell you how to take these drugs. - Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) decrease the amount of acid produced in your stomach - H2 blockers also lower the amount of acid released in the stomach Anti-reflux surgery may be an option for people whose symptoms do not go away with lifestyle changes and medicines. Heartburn and other symptoms should improve after surgery. But you may still need to take drugs for your heartburn. There are also new therapies for reflux that can be performed through an endoscope (a flexible tube passed through the mouth into the stomach)." } ]

[ "gerd" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q44-S1-A1", "_pairid": "85", "__text": "OI is most often suspected in children whose bones break with very little force. A physical exam may show that the whites of their eyes have a blue tint. A definitive diagnosis may be made using a skin punch biopsy. Family members may be given a DNA blood test. If there is a family history of OI, chorionic villus sampling may be done during pregnancy to determine if the baby has the condition. However, because so many different mutations can cause OI, some forms cannot be diagnosed with a genetic test. The severe form of type II OI can be seen on ultrasound when the fetus is as young as 16 weeks." } ]

[ "oi" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q45-S1-A1", "_pairid": "89", "__text": "Most patients with pneumonia due to mycoplasma or chlamydophila get better with the right antibiotics. Legionella pneumonia can be severe. It can lead to problems, especially in patients with kidney failure, diabetes, COPD, or a weak immune system. It can also lead to death." } ]

[ "atypical pneumonia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q46-S1-A1", "_pairid": "90", "__text": "Fibromyalgia is a common syndrome in which a person has long-term pain, spread throughout the body. The pain is most often linked to fatigue, sleep problems, headaches, depression, and anxiety. People with fibromalgia may also have tenderness in the joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues." }, { "_answerid": "Q46-S1-A2", "_pairid": "91", "__text": "Summary Fibromyalgia is a disorder that causes muscle pain and fatigue. People with fibromyalgia have \"tender points\" on the body. Tender points are specific places on the neck, shoulders, back, hips, arms, and legs. These points hurt when pressure is put on them. People with fibromyalgia may also have other symptoms, such as - Trouble sleeping - Morning stiffness - Headaches - Painful menstrual periods - Tingling or numbness in hands and feet - Problems with thinking and memory (sometimes called \"fibro fog\") No one knows what causes fibromyalgia. Anyone can get it, but it is most common in middle-aged women. People with rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases are particularly likely to develop fibromyalgia. There is no cure for fibromyalgia, but medicine can help you manage your symptoms. Getting enough sleep, exercising, and eating well may also help. NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases" } ]

[ "fibromyalgia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q47-S1-A1", "_pairid": "92", "__text": "Your health care provider can treat a wart if you do not like how it looks or if it is painful. Do NOT attempt to remove a wart yourself by burning, cutting, tearing, picking, or by any other method. MEDICINES Over-the-counter medicines are available to remove warts. Do NOT use over-the-counter wart medicines on your face or genitals. Warts in these areas need to be treated by a health care provider. To use wart-removal medicine: - File the wart with a nail file or emery board when your skin is damp (for example, after a shower or bath). This helps remove dead tissue. Do not use the same emery board on your nails. - Put the medicine on the wart every day for several weeks or months. Follow the instructions on the label. - Cover the wart with a bandage to prevent it from spreading.  OTHER TREATMENTS Special foot cushions can help ease the pain from plantar warts. You can buy these at drugstores without a prescription. Use socks. Wear shoes with plenty of room. Avoid high heels. Your health care provider may need to trim away thick skin or calluses that form over warts on your foot or around nails. Your provider may recommend the following treatments if your warts do not go away: - Stronger (prescription) medicines - A blistering solution - Freezing the wart (cryotherapy) to remove it - Burning the wart (electrocautery) to remove it - Laser treatment for difficult to remove warts - Immunotherapy, which gives you a shot of a substance that causes an allergic reaction and helps the wart go away - Skin medicine called imiquimod Genital warts are treated in a different way than most other warts. A medicine called veregen may be used on genital warts, as well as on other warts." } ]

[ "warts" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q48-S1-A1", "_pairid": "93", "__text": "These resources address the diagnosis or management of X-linked congenital stationary night blindness: - American Optometric Association: Infant Vision - Gene Review: Gene Review: X-Linked Congenital Stationary Night Blindness - Genetic Testing Registry: Congenital stationary night blindness - Genetic Testing Registry: Congenital stationary night blindness, type 1A - Genetic Testing Registry: Congenital stationary night blindness, type 2A - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Electroretinography - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Eye movements - Uncontrollable - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Nearsightedness - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Strabismus - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Vision - Night Blindness These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care" } ]

[ "x-linked congenital stationary night blindness" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q49-S1-A1", "_pairid": "94", "__text": "Hormone therapy and laparoscopy cannot cure endometriosis. However, in some women, these treatments may help relieve symptoms for years. Removal of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and both ovaries (a hysterectomy) gives you the best chance for a cure." } ]

[ "endometriosis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q50-S1-A1", "_pairid": "95", "__text": "Gastroparesis is a condition that reduces the ability of the stomach to empty its contents. It does not involve a blockage (obstruction)." }, { "_answerid": "Q50-S1-A2", "_pairid": "96", "__text": "Gastroparesis, also called delayed gastric emptying, is a disorder that slows or stops the movement of food from the stomach to the small intestine. Normally, the muscles of the stomach, which are controlled by the vagus nerve, contract to break up food and move it through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. The GI tract is a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus. The movement of muscles in the GI tract, along with the release of hormones and enzymes, allows for the digestion of food. Gastroparesis can occur when the vagus nerve is damaged by illness or injury and the stomach muscles stop working normally. Food then moves slowly from the stomach to the small intestine or stops moving altogether." }, { "_answerid": "Q50-S1-A3", "_pairid": "97", "__text": "The problems of gastroparesis can include - severe dehydration due to persistent vomiting - gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is GER that occurs more than twice a week for a few weeks; GERD can lead to esophagitis— irritation of the esophagus - bezoars, which can cause nausea, vomiting, obstruction, or interfere with absorption of some medications in pill form - difficulty managing blood glucose levels in people with diabetes - malnutrition due to poor absorption of nutrients or a low calorie intake - decreased quality of life, including work absences due to severe symptoms" } ]

[ "gastroparesis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q51-S1-A1", "_pairid": "98", "__text": "After many years, diabetes can lead to serious health problems: - You could have eye problems, including trouble seeing (especially at night) and sensitivity to light. You could become blind. - Your feet and skin could develop sores and infections. If you have these sores for too long, your foot or leg may need to be amputated. Infection can also cause pain and itching. - Diabetes may make it harder to control your blood pressure and cholesterol. This can lead to heart attack, stroke, and other problems. It can become harder for blood to flow to the legs and feet. - Nerves in the body can become damaged, causing pain, itching, tingling, and numbness. - Because of nerve damage, you could have problems digesting the food you eat. You could feel weakness or have trouble going to the bathroom. Nerve damage can also make it harder for men to have an erection. - High blood sugar and other problems can lead to kidney damage. The kidneys may not work as well as they used to. They may even stop working, so that you would need dialysis or a kidney transplant." } ]

[ "type 1 diabetes" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q52-S1-A1", "_pairid": "99", "__text": "If the underlying cause of burning mouth syndrome is determined, treatment is aimed at the triggering factor(s). If no cause can be found, treatment can be challenging. The following are potential therapies for burning mouth syndrome; we strongly recommend that you work with your health care provider in determining which therapy is right for you. A lozenge-type form of the anticonvulsant medication clonazepam (Klonopin) Oral thrush medications Medications that block nerve pan Certain antidepressants B vitamins Cognitive behavioral therapy Special oral rinses or mouth washes Saliva replacement products Capsaicin In addition to these medications, the following measures may be helpful in reducing symptoms of burning mouth syndrome: Sip water frequently Suck on ice chips Chew sugarless gum Avoid irritating substances like tobacco, hot or spicy foods, alcoholic beverages, mouthwashes that contain alcohol, and products high in acid, like citrus fruits and juices, as well as cinnamon or mint." } ]

[ "burning mouth syndrome" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q53-S1-A1", "_pairid": "100", "__text": "Low blood pressure occurs when blood pressure is much lower than normal. This means the heart, brain, and other parts of the body do not get enough blood. Normal blood pressure is usually between 90/60 mmHg and 120/80 mmHg. The medical name for low blood pressure is hypotension." }, { "_answerid": "Q53-S1-A2", "_pairid": "101", "__text": "Summary You've probably heard that high blood pressure is a problem. Sometimes blood pressure that is too low can also cause problems. Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Each time your heart beats, it pumps out blood into the arteries. Your blood pressure is highest when your heart beats, pumping the blood. This is called systolic pressure. When your heart is at rest, between beats, your blood pressure falls. This is the diastolic pressure. Your blood pressure reading uses these two numbers. Usually they're written one above or before the other, such as 120/80. If your blood pressure reading is 90/60 or lower, you have low blood pressure. Some people have low blood pressure all the time. They have no symptoms and their low readings are normal for them. In other people, blood pressure drops below normal because of a medical condition or certain medicines. Some people may have symptoms of low blood pressure when standing up too quickly. Low blood pressure is a problem only if it causes dizziness, fainting or in extreme cases, shock. NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute" }, { "_answerid": "Q53-S1-A3", "_pairid": "102", "__text": "Hypotension (HI-po-TEN-shun) is abnormally low blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of the arteries as the heart pumps out blood. Blood pressure is measured as systolic (sis-TOL-ik) and diastolic (di-a-STOL-ik) pressures. \"Systolic\" refers to blood pressure when the heart beats while pumping blood. \"Diastolic\" refers to blood pressure when the heart is at rest between beats. You most often will see blood pressure numbers written with the systolic number above or before the diastolic number, such as 120/80 mmHg. (The mmHg is millimeters of mercury—the units used to measure blood pressure.) Normal blood pressure in adults is lower than 120/80 mmHg. Hypotension is blood pressure that's lower than 90/60 mmHg. Overview Blood pressure doesn't stay the same all the time. It lowers as you sleep and rises when you wake up. Blood pressure also rises when you're excited, nervous, or active. Your body is very sensitive to changes in blood pressure. For example, if you stand up quickly, your blood pressure may drop for a short time. Your body adjusts your blood pressure to make sure enough blood and oxygen are flowing to your brain, kidneys, and other vital organs. Most forms of hypotension happen because your body can't bring blood pressure back to normal or can't do it fast enough. Some people have low blood pressure all the time. They have no signs or symptoms, and their low blood pressure is normal for them. In other people, certain conditions or factors cause abnormally low blood pressure. As a result, less blood and oxygen flow to the body's organs. For the most part, hypotension is a medical concern only if it causes signs or symptoms or is linked to a serious condition, such as heart disease. Signs and symptoms of hypotension may include dizziness, fainting, cold and sweaty skin, fatigue (tiredness), blurred vision, or nausea (feeling sick to your stomach). In extreme cases, hypotension can lead to shock. Outlook In a healthy person, low blood pressure without signs or symptoms usually isn't a problem and needs no treatment. If it causes signs or symptoms, your doctor will try to find and treat the condition that's causing it. Hypotension can be dangerous. It can make you fall because of dizziness or fainting. Shock, a severe form of hypotension, is a condition that's often fatal if not treated right away. With prompt and proper treatment, shock can be successfully treated." } ]

[ "hypotension" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q54-S1-A1", "_pairid": "106", "__text": "The goal of treatment is to reduce symptoms and speed healing. If your symptoms are mild, you may not need treatment. Treatments may include: - Antihistamines - Medicines that calm down the immune system (in severe cases) - Lidocaine mouthwashes to numb the area and make eating more comfortable (for mouth sores) - Topical corticosteroids or oral corticosteroids to reduce swelling and lower immune responses - Corticosteroid shots into a sore - Vitamin A as a cream or taken by mouth - Other medicines that are applied to the skin - Dressings placed over your skin with medicines to keep you from scratching - Ultraviolet light therapy" } ]

[ "lichen planus" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q55-S1-A1", "_pairid": "107", "__text": "Distal renal tubular acidosis is a disease that occurs when the kidneys do not properly remove acids from the blood into the urine. As a result, too much acid remains in the blood (called acidosis)." } ]

[ "distal renal tubular acidosis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q56-S1-A1", "_pairid": "109", "__text": "Klinefelter syndrome is a genetic condition that occurs in males when they have an extra X chromosome." }, { "_answerid": "Q56-S1-A2", "_pairid": "110", "__text": "Summary Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is a condition that occurs in men who have an extra X chromosome. The syndrome can affect different stages of physical, language, and social development. The most common symptom is infertility. Boys may be taller than other boys their age, with more fat around the belly. After puberty, KS boys may have - Smaller testes and penis - Breast growth - Less facial and body hair - Reduced muscle tone - Narrower shoulders and wider hips - Weaker bones - Decreased sexual interest - Lower energy KS males may have learning or language problems. They may be quiet and shy and have trouble fitting in. A genetic test can diagnose KS. There is no cure, but treatments are available. It is important to start treatment as early as possible. With treatment, most boys grow up to have normal lives. Treatments include testosterone replacement therapy and breast reduction surgery. If needed, physical, speech, language, and occupational therapy may also help. NIH: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development" }, { "_answerid": "Q56-S1-A3", "_pairid": "112", "__text": "Klinefelter syndrome is a chromosomal condition that affects male physical and cognitive development. Its signs and symptoms vary among affected individuals. Affected individuals typically have small testes that do not produce as much testosterone as usual. Testosterone is the hormone that directs male sexual development before birth and during puberty. A shortage of testosterone can lead to delayed or incomplete puberty, breast enlargement (gynecomastia), reduced facial and body hair, and an inability to have biological children (infertility). Some affected individuals also have genital differences including undescended testes (cryptorchidism), the opening of the urethra on the underside of the penis (hypospadias), or an unusually small penis (micropenis). Older children and adults with Klinefelter syndrome tend to be taller than their peers. Compared with unaffected men, adults with Klinefelter syndrome have an increased risk of developing breast cancer and a chronic inflammatory disease called systemic lupus erythematosus. Their chance of developing these disorders is similar to that of women in the general population. Children with Klinefelter syndrome may have learning disabilities and delayed speech and language development. They tend to be quiet, sensitive, and unassertive, but personality characteristics vary among affected individuals." } ]

[ "klinefelter syndrome" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q57-S1-A1", "_pairid": "118", "__text": "It may take 4 weeks or longer before you feel the full benefit of bupropion. Continue to take bupropion even if you feel well. Do not stop taking bupropion without talking to your doctor. Your doctor may decrease your dose gradually." } ]

[ "Wellbutrin" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q58-S1-A1", "_pairid": "119", "__text": "To get rid of lice, take the following important steps: - Bathe regularly to get rid of lice and their eggs. - Change your clothes often. - Wash clothes in hot water (at least 130°F/54°C) and machine dry using the hot cycle.  - Items that can't be washed, such as stuffed toys, mattresses, or furniture, can be thoroughly vacuumed to get rid of lice and eggs that have fallen off the body. Your provider may prescribe a skin cream or a wash that contains permethrin, malathione, or benzyl alcohol. If your case is severe, the provider may prescribe medicine that you take by mouth." } ]

[ "body lice" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q59-S1-A1", "_pairid": "122", "__text": "The goal of treatment is to reduce the amount of copper in the tissues. This is done by a procedure called chelation -- certain medications can bind to copper and help remove it through the kidneys or gut. Treatment must be lifelong. The following medications may be used: - Penicillamine (Cuprimine, Depen) binds to copper and leads to increased release of copper in the urine. - Trientine (Syprine) binds (chelates) the copper and increases its release through the urine. - Zinc acetate (Galzin) blocks copper from being absorbed in the intestinal tract. Vitamin E supplements may also be used. Sometimes, medications that chelate copper (especially penicillamine) can affect the function of the brain and nervous system (neurological function). Other medications under investigation may bind copper without affecting neurological function. A low-copper diet may also be recommended. Foods to avoid include: - Chocolate - Dried fruit - Liver - Mushrooms - Nuts - Shellfish You may want to drink distilled water because most tap water flows through copper pipes. Avoid using copper cooking utensils. Symptoms may be treated with exercise or physical therapy. People who are confused or unable to care for themselves may need special protective measures. A liver transplant may be considered in cases where the liver is severely damaged by the disease." }, { "_answerid": "Q59-S1-A2", "_pairid": "124", "__text": "These resources address the diagnosis or management of Wilson disease: - Gene Review: Gene Review: Wilson Disease - Genetic Testing Registry: Wilson's disease - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Wilson's disease - National Human Genome Research Institute These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care" } ]

[ "wilson's disease" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q60-S1-A1", "_pairid": "125", "__text": "There is no specific treatment for scleroderma. Your provider will assess the extent of disease in the lungs, kidneys, heart, and gastrointestinal tract. You will be prescribed medicines and other treatments to control your symptoms and prevent complications. Medicines used to treat scleroderma include: - Corticosteroids such as prednisone. Doses above 10 mg per day are not recommended. - Drugs that suppress the immune system such as methotrexate - Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) Other treatments for specific symptoms may include: - Medicines for heartburn or swallowing problems - Blood pressure medicines (such as ACE inhibitors) for high blood pressure or kidney problems - Light therapy to relieve skin thickening - Medicines to improve breathing (bosentan) - Treatments to improve Raynaud phenomenon, including medicines, gloves to keep the hands warm, and avoiding smoking Treatment often involves physical therapy as well." }, { "_answerid": "Q60-S1-A2", "_pairid": "126", "__text": "Currently, there is not a cure for scleroderma, however treatments are available to relieve symptoms and limit damage. Treatment will vary depending on your symptoms." }, { "_answerid": "Q60-S1-A3", "_pairid": "127", "__text": "These resources address the diagnosis or management of systemic scleroderma: - Cedars-Sinai Medical Center - Genetic Testing Registry: Scleroderma, familial progressive - University of Maryland Medical Center These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care" } ]

[ "systemic sclerosis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q61-S1-A1", "_pairid": "128", "__text": "The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms. - The underlying cause of the ulcer should be treated if it is known. - Gently cleaning your mouth and teeth may help relieve your symptoms. - Medicines that you rub directly on the ulcer such as antihistamines, antacids, and corticosteroids may help soothe discomfort. - Avoid hot or spicy foods until the ulcer is healed." } ]

[ "mouth ulcer" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q62-S1-A1", "_pairid": "129", "__text": "If you have low vision, eyeglasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery may not help. Activities like reading, shopping, cooking, writing, and watching TV may be hard to do. The leading causes of low vision and blindness in the United States are age-related eye diseases: macular degeneration, cataract and glaucoma. Other eye disorders, eye injuries, and birth defects can also cause vision loss. Whatever the cause, lost vision cannot be restored. It can, however, be managed. A loss of vision means that you may have to reorganize your life and learn new ways of doing things. If you have some vision, visual aids such as special glasses and large print books can make life easier. There are also devices to help those with no vision, like text-reading software and braille books. The sooner vision loss or eye disease is found and treated, the greater your chances of keeping your remaining vision. You should have regular comprehensive eye exams by an eye care professional." } ]

[ "visual impairment" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q63-S1-A1", "_pairid": "130", "__text": "Clubfoot is when the foot turns inward and downward. It is a congenital condition, which means it is present at birth." }, { "_answerid": "Q63-S1-A2", "_pairid": "131", "__text": "Talipes equinovarus is a congenital (present from birth) condition where the foot turns inward and downward. The cause of this condition is not known, although it may be passed down through families in some cases. This condition occurs in about 1 out of every 1,000 births. Treatment may involve moving the foot into the correct position and using a cast to keep it there. This process is done in small increments over a period of time. In severe cases, surgery may be needed." } ]

[ "clubfoot" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q63-S2-A1", "_pairid": "132", "__text": "Clubfoot is the most common congenital disorder of the legs. It can range from mild and flexible to severe and rigid. The cause is not known, but the condition may be passed down through families in some cases. Risk factors include a family history of the disorder and being male. The condition occurs in about 1 out of every 1,000 live births." } ]

[ "clubfoot" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q63-S3-A1", "_pairid": "133", "__text": "Treatment may involve moving the foot into the correct position and using a cast to keep it there. This is often done by an orthopedic specialist. Treatment should be started as early as possible -- ideally, shortly after birth -- when it is easiest to reshape the foot. Gentle stretching and recasting will be done every week to improve the position of the foot. Generally, five to 10 casts are needed. The final cast will stay in place for 3 weeks. After the foot is in the correct position, the child will wear a special brace nearly full time for 3 months. Then, the child will wear the brace at night and during naps for up to 3 years. Often, the problem is a tightened Achilles tendon, and a simple procedure is needed to release it. Some severe cases of clubfoot will need surgery if other treatments do not work, or if the problem returns. The child should be monitored by a health care provider until the foot is fully grown. See: Clubfoot repair" } ]

[ "clubfoot" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q63-S4-A1", "_pairid": "134", "__text": "Tay-Sachs disease is a life-threatening disease of the nervous system passed down through families." }, { "_answerid": "Q63-S4-A2", "_pairid": "135", "__text": "Summary Tay-Sachs disease is a rare, inherited disorder. It causes too much of a fatty substance to build up in the brain. This buildup destroys nerve cells, causing mental and physical problems. Infants with Tay-Sachs disease appear to develop normally for the first few months of life. Then mental and physical abilities decline. The child becomes blind, deaf, and unable to swallow. Muscles begin to waste away and paralysis sets in. Even with the best of care, children with Tay-Sachs disease usually die by age 4. The cause is a gene mutation which is most common in Eastern European Ashkenazi Jews. To get the disease, both parents must have the gene. If they do, there is a 25% chance of the child having the disease. A blood test and prenatal tests can check for the gene or the disease. There is no cure. Medicines and good nutrition can help some symptoms. Some children need feeding tubes. NIH: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke" }, { "_answerid": "Q63-S4-A3", "_pairid": "136", "__text": "Tay-Sachs disease is a rare inherited disorder that causes progressive destruction of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Tay-Sachs is caused by the absence of a vital enzyme called hexosaminidase-A (Hex-A). Without Hex-A, a fatty substance, or lipid, called GM2 ganglioside accumulates abnormally in cells, especially in the nerve cells of the brain. This ongoing accumulation causes progressive damage to the cells. Tay-Sachs disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern." }, { "_answerid": "Q63-S4-A4", "_pairid": "137", "__text": "Tay-Sachs disease is a rare inherited disorder that progressively destroys nerve cells (neurons) in the brain and spinal cord. The most common form of Tay-Sachs disease becomes apparent in infancy. Infants with this disorder typically appear normal until the age of 3 to 6 months, when their development slows and muscles used for movement weaken. Affected infants lose motor skills such as turning over, sitting, and crawling. They also develop an exaggerated startle reaction to loud noises. As the disease progresses, children with Tay-Sachs disease experience seizures, vision and hearing loss, intellectual disability, and paralysis. An eye abnormality called a cherry-red spot, which can be identified with an eye examination, is characteristic of this disorder. Children with this severe infantile form of Tay-Sachs disease usually live only into early childhood. Other forms of Tay-Sachs disease are very rare. Signs and symptoms can appear in childhood, adolescence, or adulthood and are usually milder than those seen with the infantile form. Characteristic features include muscle weakness, loss of muscle coordination (ataxia) and other problems with movement, speech problems, and mental illness. These signs and symptoms vary widely among people with late-onset forms of Tay-Sachs disease." } ]

[ "tsd" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q63-S5-A1", "_pairid": "138", "__text": "Tay-Sachs disease occurs when the body lacks hexosaminidase A. This is a protein that helps break down a group of chemicals found in nerve tissue called gangliosides. Without this protein, gangliosides, particularly ganglioside GM2, build up in cells, especially nerve cells in the brain. Tay-Sachs disease is caused by a defective gene on chromosome 15. When both parents carry the defective Tay-Sachs gene, a child has a 25% chance of developing the disease. The child must receive two copies of the defective gene, one from each parent, in order to become sick. If only one parent passes the defective gene to the child, the child is called a carrier. They will not be sick, but may pass the disease to their own children. Anyone can be a carrier of Tay-Sachs. But, the disease is most common among the Ashkenazi Jewish population. 1 in every 27 members of the population carries the Tay-Sachs gene. Tay-Sachs is divided into infantile, juvenile, and adult forms, depending on the symptoms and when they first appear. Most people with Tay-Sachs have the infantile form. In this form, the nerve damage usually begins while the baby is still in the womb. Symptoms usually appear when the child is 3 to 6 months old. The disease tends to get worse very quickly, and the child usually dies by age 4 or 5. Late-onset Tay-Sachs disease, which affects adults, is very rare." } ]

[ "tsd" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q63-S6-A1", "_pairid": "139", "__text": "There is no known way to prevent this disorder. Genetic testing can detect if you are a carrier of the gene for this disorder. If you or your partner are from an at-risk population, it is recommended that you undergo testing before starting a family. Testing the amniotic fluid can diagnose Tay-Sachs disease in the womb." } ]

[ "tsd" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q63-S7-A1", "_pairid": "140", "__text": "There is no treatment for Tay-Sachs disease itself, only ways to make the person more comfortable." }, { "_answerid": "Q63-S7-A2", "_pairid": "141", "__text": "Although several attempts have been made at purified enzyme replacement therapy for children with Tay-Sachs disease, none has been successful. Cellular infusions and even bone marrow transplantation have been attempted with no evidence of benefit. Because no specific treatment is available for Tay-Sachs disease, treatment is directed at the symptoms and major associated conditions. Treatment is supportive and aimed at providing adequate nutrition and hydration. The airway must be protected. Seizures can be controlled initially with conventional anticonvulsant medications such as benzodiazepines, phenytoins, and/or barbiturates, but the progressive nature of the disease may require alteration of dosage or medication. Infectious diseases should be managed. In advanced disease, good bowel movement should be maintained and severe constipation should be avoided. Good hydration, food additives, stool softeners, laxatives, and other measures should be employed to avoid severe constipation." }, { "_answerid": "Q63-S7-A3", "_pairid": "142", "__text": "These resources address the diagnosis or management of Tay-Sachs disease: - Gene Review: Gene Review: Hexosaminidase A Deficiency - Genetic Testing Registry: Tay-Sachs disease - MedlinePlus Encyclopedia: Tay-Sachs Disease These resources from MedlinePlus offer information about the diagnosis and management of various health conditions: - Diagnostic Tests - Drug Therapy - Surgery and Rehabilitation - Genetic Counseling - Palliative Care" } ]

[ "tsd" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q64-S1-A1", "_pairid": "143", "__text": "Treatment depends on many things: - The cause of scoliosis - Where the curve is in your spine - How big the curve is - If your body is still growing Most people with idiopathic scoliosis do not need treatment. But you should still be checked by a doctor about every 6 months. If you are still growing, your doctor might recommend a back brace. A back brace prevents further curving. There are many different types of braces. What kind you get depends on the size and location of your curve. Your provider will pick the best one for you and show you how to use it. Back braces can be adjusted as you grow. Back braces work best in people over age 10. Braces do not work for those with congenital or neuromuscular scoliosis. You may need surgery if the spine curve is severe or getting worse very quickly. Surgery involves correcting the curve as much as possible: - Surgery is done with a cut through the back, belly area, or beneath the ribs. - The spine bones are held in place with 1 or 2 metal rods. The rods are held down with hooks and screws until the bone heals together. - After surgery, you may need to wear a brace for a while to keep the spine still. Scoliosis treatment may also include: - Emotional support: Some children, especially teens, may be self-conscious when using a back brace. - Physical therapy and other specialists to help explain the treatments and make sure the brace fits correctly." } ]

[ "scoliosis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q65-S1-A1", "_pairid": "144", "__text": "A substance called plaque can build up in the walls of your coronary arteries. This plaque is made up of cholesterol and other cells. A heart attack may occur when: - A tear in the plaque occurs. This triggers blood platelets and other substances to form a blood a clot at the site that blocks most or all of the oxygen-carrying blood from flowing to a part of the heart muscle. This is the most common cause of heart attack. - A slow buildup of plaque may narrow one of the coronary arteries so that it is almost blocked. In either case, there is not enough blood flow to the heart muscle and heart muscle dies. The cause of heart attack is not always known. Heart attack may occur: - When you are resting or asleep - After a sudden increase in physical activity - When you are active outside in cold weather - After sudden, severe emotional or physical stress, including an illness Many risk factors may lead to the development of plaque buildup and a heart attack." }, { "_answerid": "Q65-S1-A2", "_pairid": "145", "__text": "Coronary Heart Disease A heart attack happens if the flow of oxygen-rich blood to a section of heart muscle suddenly becomes blocked and the heart can't get oxygen. Most heart attacks occur as a result of coronary heart disease (CHD). CHD is a condition in which a waxy substance called plaque builds up inside of the coronary arteries. These arteries supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart. When plaque builds up in the arteries, the condition is called atherosclerosis. The buildup of plaque occurs over many years. Eventually, an area of plaque can rupture (break open) inside of an artery. This causes a blood clot to form on the plaque's surface. If the clot becomes large enough, it can mostly or completely block blood flow through a coronary artery. If the blockage isn't treated quickly, the portion of heart muscle fed by the artery begins to die. Healthy heart tissue is replaced with scar tissue. This heart damage may not be obvious, or it may cause severe or long-lasting problems. Coronary Artery Spasm A less common cause of heart attack is a severe spasm (tightening) of a coronary artery. The spasm cuts off blood flow through the artery. Spasms can occur in coronary arteries that aren't affected by atherosclerosis. What causes a coronary artery to spasm isn't always clear. A spasm may be related to: Taking certain drugs, such as cocaine Emotional stress or pain Exposure to extreme cold Cigarette smoking The animation below shows how plaque buildup or a coronary artery spasm can lead to a heart attack. Click the \"start\" button to play the animation. Written and spoken explanations are provided with each frame. Use the buttons in the lower right corner to pause, restart, or replay the animation, or use the scroll bar below the buttons to move through the frames. The animation shows how blocked blood flow in a coronary artery can lead to a heart attack." }, { "_answerid": "Q65-S1-A3", "_pairid": "146", "__text": "Most heart attacks are caused by a blood clot that blocks one of the coronary arteries, the blood vessels that bring blood and oxygen to the heart muscle. When blood cannot reach part of your heart, that area starves for oxygen. If the blockage continues long enough, cells in the affected area die. The Most Common Cause Coronary heart disease (CHD)is the most common underlying cause of a heart attack. CHD, also called coronary artery disease, is the hardening and narrowing of the coronary arteries caused by the buildup of plaque inside the walls of the arteries. When plaque builds up in the arteries, the condition is called atherosclerosis (ath-er-o-skler-O-sis). The buildup of plaque occurs over many years. Over time, an area of plaque can rupture (break open) inside of an artery. This causes a blood clot to form on the plaque's surface. If the clot becomes large enough, it can mostly or completely block blood flow through a coronary artery. If the blockage isn't treated quickly, the portion of heart muscle fed by the artery begins to die. Healthy heart tissue is replaced with scar tissue. This heart damage may not be obvious, or it may cause severe or long-lasting problems. Other Causes Heart attack also can occur due to problems with the very small, microscopic blood vessels of the heart. This condition is called microvascular disease. It's believed to be more common in women than in men. A less common cause of heart attacks is a severe spasm or tightening of the coronary artery that cuts off blood flow to the heart. These spasms can occur in persons with or without coronary artery disease. What causes a coronary artery to spasm isn't always clear. A spasm may be related to emotional stress or pain, exposure to extreme cold, cigarette smoking, or by taking certain drugs like cocaine. Risk Factors You Cannot Change Certain factors make it more likely that you will develop coronary artery disease and have a heart attack. These risk factors include some things you cannot change. If you are a man over age 45 or a woman over age 55, you are at greater risk. Having a family history of early heart disease, diagnosed in a father or brother before age 55 or in a mother or sister before age 65, is another risk factor. You are also at risk if you have a personal history of angina or previous heart attack, or if you have had a heart procedure such as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) or coronary artery bypass surgery (CABG). Risk Factors You Can Change Importantly, there are many risk factors that you can change. These include - smoking - being overweight or obese - physical inactivity - high blood pressure - high blood cholesterol - high blood sugar due to insulin resistance or diabetes - an unhealthy diet (for example, a diet high in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, and sodium). smoking being overweight or obese physical inactivity high blood pressure high blood cholesterol high blood sugar due to insulin resistance or diabetes an unhealthy diet (for example, a diet high in saturated fat, trans fat, cholesterol, and sodium). Metabolic Syndrome Some of these risk factors—such as obesity, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar—tend to occur together. When they do, it's called metabolic syndrome. In general, a person with metabolic syndrome is twice as likely to develop heart disease and five times as likely to develop diabetes as someone without metabolic syndrome." } ]

[ "heart attack" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q65-S2-A1", "_pairid": "147", "__text": "Treatments for atherosclerosis may include heart-healthy lifestyle changes, medicines, and medical procedures or surgery. The goals of treatment include: Lowering the risk of blood clots forming Preventing atherosclerosis-related diseases Reducing risk factors in an effort to slow or stop the buildup of plaque Relieving symptoms Widening or bypassing plaque-clogged arteries Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Changes Your doctor may recommend heart-healthy lifestyle changes if you have atherosclerosis. Heart-healthy lifestyle changes include heart-healthy eating, aiming for a healthy weight, managing stress, physical activity and quitting smoking. Medicines Sometimes lifestyle changes alone aren’t enough to control your cholesterol levels. For example, you also may need statin medications to control or lower your cholesterol. By lowering your blood cholesterol level, you can decrease your chance of having a heart attack or stroke. Doctors usually prescribe statins for people who have: Coronary heart disease, peripheral artery disease, or had a prior stroke Diabetes High LDL cholesterol levels Doctors may discuss beginning statin treatment with people who have an elevated risk for developing heart disease or having a stroke. Your doctor also may prescribe other medications to: Lower your blood pressure Lower your blood sugar levels Prevent blood clots, which can lead to heart attack and stroke Prevent inflammation Take all medicines regularly, as your doctor prescribes. Don’t change the amount of your medicine or skip a dose unless your doctor tells you to. You should still follow a heart healthy lifestyle, even if you take medicines to treat your atherosclerosis. Medical Procedures and Surgery If you have severe atherosclerosis, your doctor may recommend a medical procedure or surgery. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), also known as coronary angioplasty, is a procedure that’s used to open blocked or narrowed coronary (heart) arteries. PCI can improve blood flow to the heart and relieve chest pain. Sometimes a small mesh tube called a stent is placed in the artery to keep it open after the procedure. Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is a type of surgery. In CABG, arteries or veins from other areas in your body are used to bypass or go around your narrowed coronary arteries. CABG can improve blood flow to your heart, relieve chest pain, and possibly prevent a heart attack. Bypass grafting also can be used for leg arteries. For this surgery, a healthy blood vessel is used to bypass a narrowed or blocked artery in one of the legs. The healthy blood vessel redirects blood around the blocked artery, improving blood flow to the leg. Carotid endarterectomy is a type of surgery to remove plaque buildup from the carotid arteries in the neck. This procedure restores blood flow to the brain, which can help prevent a stroke." } ]

[ "arteriosclerosis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q66-S1-A1", "_pairid": "148", "__text": "Worldwide, cervical cancer is the third most common type of cancer in women. It is much less common in the United States because of the routine use of Pap smears. Cervical cancer starts in the cells on the surface of the cervix. There are two types of cells on the surface of the cervix, squamous and columnar. Most cervical cancers are from squamous cells. Cervical cancer usually develops slowly. It starts as a precancerous condition called dysplasia. This condition can be detected by a Pap smear and is 100% treatable. It can take years for dysplasia to develop into cervical cancer. Most women who are diagnosed with cervical cancer today have not had regular Pap smears, or they have not followed up on abnormal Pap smear results. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV (human papillomavirus). HPV is a common virus that is spread through sexual intercourse. There are many different types (strains) of HPV. Some strains lead to cervical cancer. Other strains can cause genital warts. Others do not cause any problems at all. A woman's sexual habits and patterns can increase her risk of developing cervical cancer. Risky sexual practices include: - Having sex at an early age - Having multiple sexual partners - Having a partner or many partners who take part in high-risk sexual activities Other risk factors for cervical cancer include: - Not getting the HPV vaccine - Being economically disadvantaged - Having a mother who took the drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy in the early 1960s to prevent miscarriage - Having a weakened immune system" } ]

[ "cervical cancer" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q67-S1-A1", "_pairid": "149", "__text": "The goal of treatment is to relieve symptoms. In some cases of IBS, lifestyle changes can help. For example, regular exercise and improved sleep habits may reduce anxiety and help relieve bowel symptoms. Dietary changes can be helpful. However, no specific diet can be recommended for IBS because the condition differs from one person to another. The following changes may help: - Avoiding foods and drinks that stimulate the intestines (such as caffeine, tea, or colas) - Eating smaller meals - Increasing fiber in the diet (this may improve constipation or diarrhea, but make bloating worse) Talk with your provider before taking over-the-counter medicines. No one medicine works for everyone. Some that your provider may suggest include: - Anticholinergic medicines (dicyclomine, propantheline, belladonna, and hyoscyamine) taken about a half-hour before eating to control intestinal muscle spasms - Bisacodyl to treat constipation - Loperamide to treat diarrhea - Low doses of tricyclic antidepressants to help relieve intestinal pain - Lubiprostone for constipation symptoms - Rifaximin, an antibiotic Psychological therapy or medicines for anxiety or depression may help with the problem." } ]

[ "ibs" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q68-S1-A1", "_pairid": "150", "__text": "Most cases of Lewy body dementia are not thought to be inherited. The condition generally occurs sporadically in people with no family history of the condition. Rarely, the condition can affect more than one family member. Some of these cases appear to be due to single gene changes (mutations) that follow an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. Other familial cases do not follow a specific pattern of inheritance and likely have a multifactorial cause (associated with the effects of multiple genes in combination with lifestyle and environmental factors)." } ]

[ "lewy body disease" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q68-S2-A1", "_pairid": "151", "__text": "Lewy body dementia is characterized by the abnormal buildup of proteins into masses known as Lewy bodies. This protein is also associated with Parkinson's disease. People who have Lewy bodies in their brains also have the plaques and tangles associated with Alzheimer's disease." } ]

[ "lewy body disease" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q68-S3-A1", "_pairid": "152", "__text": "The Human Phenotype Ontology provides the following list of signs and symptoms for Lewy body dementia. If the information is available, the table below includes how often the symptom is seen in people with this condition. You can use the MedlinePlus Medical Dictionary to look up the definitions for these medical terms. Signs and Symptoms Approximate number of patients (when available) Abnormality of extrapyramidal motor function 90% Abnormality of the autonomic nervous system 90% Developmental regression 90% EEG abnormality 90% Hallucinations 90% Hypertonia 90% Hypotension 90% Sleep disturbance 90% Sudden cardiac death 90% Gait disturbance 50% Incoordination 50% Neurological speech impairment 50% Abnormality of the sense of smell 7.5% Feeding difficulties in infancy 7.5% Involuntary movements 7.5% Restrictive lung disease 7.5% Skin ulcer 7.5% Tremor 7.5% Autosomal dominant inheritance - Delusions - Dementia - Fluctuations in consciousness - Parkinsonism - Visual hallucinations - The Human Phenotype Ontology (HPO) has collected information on how often a sign or symptom occurs in a condition. Much of this information comes from Orphanet, a European rare disease database. The frequency of a sign or symptom is usually listed as a rough estimate of the percentage of patients who have that feature. The frequency may also be listed as a fraction. The first number of the fraction is how many people had the symptom, and the second number is the total number of people who were examined in one study. For example, a frequency of 25/25 means that in a study of 25 people all patients were found to have that symptom. Because these frequencies are based on a specific study, the fractions may be different if another group of patients are examined. Sometimes, no information on frequency is available. In these cases, the sign or symptom may be rare or common." } ]

[ "lewy body disease" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q69-S1-A1", "_pairid": "153", "__text": "Hypotrichosis-lymphedema-telangiectasia syndrome (HLTS) is a rare condition that, as the name suggests, is associated with sparse hair (hypotrichosis), lymphedema, and telangiectasia, particularly on the palms of the hands. Symptoms usually begin at birth or in early childhood and become worse over time. HLTS is thought to be caused by changes (mutations) in the SOX18 gene. It can follow both an autosomal dominant or an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance, depending on the affected family. There is currently no cure for the condition. Treatment is based on the signs and symptoms present in each person." } ]

[ "hypotrichosis-lymphedema-telangiectasia syndrome" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q70-S1-A1", "_pairid": "154", "__text": "When listening to the chest with a stethoscope, the doctor may hear crackling sounds called rales. These tests may help diagnose the disease: - Chest x-ray - CT scan of the lungs - Pulmonary function tests" } ]

[ "asbestosis" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q71-S1-A1", "_pairid": "155", "__text": "Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) is an unusual cancer of the blood. It affects B cells, a type of white blood cell (lymphocyte)." }, { "_answerid": "Q71-S1-A2", "_pairid": "156", "__text": "Hairy cell leukemia is a rare, slow-growing cancer of the blood in which the bone marrow makes too many B cells (lymphocytes), a type of white blood cell that fights infection. The condition is named after these excess B cells which look 'hairy' under a microscope. As the number of leukemia cells increases, fewer healthy white blood cells, red blood cells and platelets are produced. The underlying cause of this condition is unknown. While there is no cure, treatment can lead to remission which can last for years." } ]

[ "hairy cell leukemia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q71-S2-A1", "_pairid": "157", "__text": "Treatment may not be needed for the early stages of this disease. Some patients may need an occasional blood transfusion. If treatment is needed because of very low blood counts, chemotherapy drugs can be used. In most cases, chemotherapy can relieve the symptoms for many years. (When the signs and symptoms go away, you are said to be in remission.) Removing the spleen may improve blood counts, but is unlikely to cure the disease. Antibiotics can be used to treat infections. People with low blood counts will receive growth factors and, possibly, transfusions." } ]

[ "hairy cell leukemia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q71-S3-A1", "_pairid": "158", "__text": "Most patients with hairy cell leukemia can expect to live 10 years or longer after diagnosis and treatment." } ]

[ "hairy cell leukemia" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q72-S1-A1", "_pairid": "159", "__text": "Type 2 diabetes may be reversed with lifestyle changes, especially losing weight with exercise and by eating healthier foods. Some cases of type 2 diabetes can also be improved with weight-loss surgery. There is no cure for type 1 diabetes. Treating either type 1 diabetes or type 2 diabetes involves medicines, diet, and exercise to control blood sugar level. Everyone with diabetes should receive proper education and support about the best ways to manage their diabetes. Ask your provider about seeing a diabetes nurse educator. Getting better control over your blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure levels helps reduce the risk of kidney disease, eye disease, nervous system disease, heart attack, and stroke. To prevent diabetes complications, visit your provider at least 2 to 4 times a year. Talk about any problems you are having. Follow your provider's instructions on managing your diabetes." }, { "_answerid": "Q72-S1-A2", "_pairid": "160", "__text": "The goal of treatment at first is to lower your high blood glucose levels. Long-term goals are to prevent problems from diabetes. The most important way to treat and manage type 2 diabetes is with activity and healthy eating. Everyone with diabetes should receive proper education and support about the best ways to manage their diabetes. Ask your healthcare provider about seeing a diabetes educator. LEARN THESE SKILLS Learning diabetes management skills will help you live well with diabetes. These skills help prevent health problems and the need for medical care. Skills include: - How to test and record your blood glucose - What and when to eat - How to safely increase your activity and control your weight - How to take medications, if needed - How to recognize and treat low and high blood sugar - How to handle sick days - Where to buy diabetes supplies and how to store them It may take several months to learn these skills. Keep learning about diabetes, its complications, and how to control and live well with the disease. Stay up-to-date on new research and treatments. MANAGING YOUR BLOOD SUGAR Checking your blood sugar levels yourself and writing down the results tells you how well you are managing your diabetes. Talk to your doctor and diabetes educator about how often to check. To check your blood sugar level, you use a device called a glucose meter. Usually, you prick your finger with a small needle called a lancet. This gives you a tiny drop of blood. You place the blood on a test strip and put the strip into the meter. The meter gives you a reading that tells you the level of your blood sugar. Your doctor or diabetes educator will help set up a testing schedule for you. Your doctor will help you set a target range for your blood sugar numbers. Keep these factors in mind: - Most people with type 2 diabetes only need to check their blood sugar once or twice a day. - If your blood sugar level is under control, you may only need to check it a few times a week. - You may test yourself when you wake up, before meals, and at bedtime. - You may need to test more often when you are sick or under stress. Keep a record of your blood sugar for yourself and your doctor. Based on your numbers, you may need to make changes to your meals, activity, or medicines to keep your blood sugar level in the right range. HEALTHY EATING AND WEIGHT CONTROL Work closely with your doctor, nurse, and dietitian to learn how much fat, protein, and carbohydrates you need in your diet. Your meal plans should fit your lifestyle and habits and should include foods that you like. Managing your weight and having a well-balanced diet are important. Some people with type 2 diabetes can stop taking medicines after losing weight. This does not mean that their diabetes is cured. They still have diabetes. Very obese patients whose diabetes is not well managed with diet and medicine may consider weight loss (bariatric) surgery. REGULAR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Regular activity is important for everyone. It is even more important when you have diabetes. Exercise is good for your health because it: - Lowers your blood sugar level without medicine - Burns extra calories and fat to help manage your weight - Improves blood flow and blood pressure - Increases your energy level - Improves your ability to handle stress Talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program. People with type 2 diabetes may need to take special steps before, during, and after physical activity or exercise. MEDICATIONS TO TREAT DIABETES If diet and exercise do not help keep your blood sugar at normal or near-normal levels, your doctor may prescribe medication. Since these drugs help lower your blood sugar levels in different ways, your doctor may have you take more than one drug. Some of the most common types of medication are listed below. They are taken by mouth or injection. - Alpha-glucosidase inhibitors - Biguanides - DPP IV inhibitors - Injectable medicines (GLP-1 analogs) - Meglitinides - SGL T2 inhibitors - Sulfonylureas - Thiazolidinediones You may need to take insulin if your blood sugar cannot be controlled with any of the above medicines. Insulin must be injected under the skin using a syringe, insulin pen, or pump. It cannot be taken by mouth because the acid in the stomach destroys insulin. PREVENTING COMPLICATIONS Your doctor may prescribe medicines or other treatments to reduce your chance of developing some of the more common complications of diabetes, including: - Eye disease - Kidney disease - Heart disease and stroke FOOT CARE People with diabetes are more likely than those without diabetes to have foot problems. Diabetes damages the nerves. This can make you less able to feel pressure on the foot. You many not notice a foot injury until you get a severe infection. Diabetes can also damage blood vessels. Small sores or breaks in the skin may become deeper skin sores (ulcers). The affected limb may need to be amputated if these skin ulcers do not heal or become larger, deeper, or infected. To prevent problems with your feet: - Stop smoking if you smoke. - Improve control of your blood sugar. - Get a foot exam by your doctor at least twice a year and learn if you have nerve damage. - Check and care for your feet every day. This is very important when you already have nerve or blood vessel damage or foot problems. - Treat minor infections, such as athlete's foot, right away. - Use moisturizing lotion on dry skin. - Make sure you wear the right kind of shoes. Ask your doctor what type of shoe is right for you." } ]

[ "diabetes type 2" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q73-S1-A1", "_pairid": "161", "__text": "Most cases of Angelman syndrome are not inherited, particularly those caused by a deletion in the maternal chromosome 15 or by paternal uniparental disomy. These genetic changes occur as random events during the formation of reproductive cells (eggs and sperm) or in early embryonic development. In these instances, people typically have no history of the disorder in their family. Rarely, a genetic change responsible for Angelman syndrome can be inherited. For example, it is possible for a mutation in the UBE3A gene or in the nearby region of DNA that controls gene activation to be passed from one generation to the next." } ]

[ "angelman syndrome" ]

[ { "_answerid": "Q74-S1-A1", "_pairid": "165", "__text": "Summary Diabetes is a disease in which your blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels are too high. Glucose comes from the foods you eat. Insulin is a hormone that helps the glucose get into your cells to give them energy. With type 1 diabetes, your body does not make insulin. With type 2 diabetes, the more common type, your body does not make or use insulin well. Without enough insulin, the glucose stays in your blood. You can also have prediabetes. This means that your blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough to be called diabetes. Having prediabetes puts you at a higher risk of getting type 2 diabetes. Over time, having too much glucose in your blood can cause serious problems. It can damage your eyes, kidneys, and nerves. Diabetes can also cause heart disease, stroke and even the need to remove a limb. Pregnant women can also get diabetes, called gestational diabetes. Blood tests can show if you have diabetes. One type of test, the A1C, can also check on how you are managing your diabetes. Exercise, weight control and sticking to your meal plan can help control your diabetes. You should also monitor your blood glucose level and take medicine if prescribed. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases" }, { "_answerid": "Q74-S1-A2", "_pairid": "166", "__text": "Summary Diabetes means your blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels are too high. With type 2 diabetes, the more common type, your body does not make or use insulin well. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose get into your cells to give them energy. Without insulin, too much glucose stays in your blood. Over time, high blood glucose can lead to serious problems with your heart, eyes, kidneys, nerves, and gums and teeth. You have a higher risk of type 2 diabetes if you are older, obese, have a family history of diabetes, or do not exercise. Having prediabetes also increases your risk. Prediabetes means that your blood sugar is higher than normal but not high enough to be called diabetes. The symptoms of type 2 diabetes appear slowly. Some people do not notice symptoms at all. The symptoms can include - Being very thirsty - Urinating often - Feeling very hungry or tired - Losing weight without trying - Having sores that heal slowly - Having blurry eyesight Blood tests can show if you have diabetes. One type of test, the A1C, can also check on how you are managing your diabetes. Many people can manage their diabetes through healthy eating, physical activity, and blood glucose testing. Some people also need to take diabetes medicines. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases" }, { "_answerid": "Q74-S1-A3", "_pairid": "167", "__text": "Too Much Glucose in the Blood Diabetes means your blood glucose (often called blood sugar) is too high. Your blood always has some glucose in it because your body needs glucose for energy to keep you going. But too much glucose in the blood isn't good for your health. Glucose comes from the food you eat and is also made in your liver and muscles. Your blood carries the glucose to all of the cells in your body. Insulin is a chemical (a hormone) made by the pancreas. The pancreas releases insulin into the blood. Insulin helps the glucose from food get into your cells. If your body does not make enough insulin or if the insulin doesn't work the way it should, glucose can't get into your cells. It stays in your blood instead. Your blood glucose level then gets too high, causing pre-diabetes or diabetes. Types of Diabetes There are three main kinds of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes. The result of type 1 and type 2 diabetes is the same: glucose builds up in the blood, while the cells are starved of energy. Over the years, high blood glucose damages nerves and blood vessels, oftentimes leading to complications such as heart disease, stroke, blindness, kidney disease, nerve problems, gum infections, and amputation. Type 1 Diabetes Type 1 diabetes, which used to be called called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, develops most often in young people. However, type 1 diabetes can also develop in adults. With this form of diabetes, your body no longer makes insulin or doesn’t make enough insulin because your immune system has attacked and destroyed the insulin-producing cells. About 5 to 10 percent of people with diabetes have type 1 diabetes. To survive, people with type 1 diabetes must have insulin delivered by injection or a pump. Learn more about type 1 diabetes here. Type 2 Diabetes Type 2 diabetes, which used to be called adult-onset diabetes or non insulin-dependent diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes. Although people can develop type 2 diabetes at any age -- even during childhood -- type 2 diabetes develops most often in middle-aged and older people. Type 2 diabetes usually begins with insulin resistance—a condition that occurs when fat, muscle, and liver cells do not use insulin to carry glucose into the body’s cells to use for energy. As a result, the body needs more insulin to help glucose enter cells. At first, the pancreas keeps up with the added demand by making more insulin. Over time, the pancreas doesn’t make enough insulin when blood sugar levels increase, such as after meals. If your pancreas can no longer make enough insulin, you will need to treat your type 2 diabetes. Learn more about type 2 diabetes here. Gestational Diabetes Some women develop gestational diabetes during the late stages of pregnancy. Gestational diabetes is caused by the hormones of pregnancy or a shortage of insulin. Although this form of diabetes usually goes away after the baby is born, a woman who has had it and her child are more likely to develop diabetes later in life. Prediabetes Prediabetes means your blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a diagnosis of diabetes. People with prediabetes are at an increased risk for developing type 2 diabetes and for heart disease and stroke. The good news is that if you have prediabetes, you can reduce your risk of getting type 2 diabetes. With modest weight loss and moderate physical activity, you can delay or prevent type 2 diabetes. Learn more about prediabetes here. Signs of Diabetes Many people with diabetes experience one or more symptoms, including extreme thirst or hunger, a frequent need to urinate and/or fatigue. Some lose weight without trying. Additional signs include sores that heal slowly, dry, itchy skin, loss of feeling or tingling in the feet and blurry eyesight. Some people with diabetes, however, have no symptoms at all. How Many Have Diabetes? Nearly 29 million Americans age 20 or older (12.3 percent of all people in this age group) have diabetes, according to 2014 estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). About 1.9 million people aged 20 years or older were newly diagnosed with diabetes in 2010 alone. People can get diabetes at any age, but the risk increases as we get older. In 2014, over 11 million older adults living in the U.S -- nearly 26 percent of people 65 or older -- had diabetes. See more statistics about diabetes from the National Diabetes Statistics Report 2014. (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.) If Diabetes is Not Managed Diabetes is a very serious disease. Over time, diabetes that is not well managed causes serious damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart, gums and teeth. If you have diabetes, you are more likely than people without diabetes to have heart disease or a stroke. People with diabetes also tend to develop heart disease or stroke at an earlier age than others. The best way to protect yourself from the serious complications of diabetes is to manage your blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol and to avoid smoking. It is not always easy, but people who make an ongoing effort to manage their diabetes can greatly improve their overall health." }, { "_answerid": "Q74-S1-A4", "_pairid": "168", "__text": "Diabetes means your blood glucose (often called blood sugar) is too high. Your blood always has some glucose in it because your body needs glucose for energy to keep you going. But too much glucose in the blood isn't good for your health. Glucose comes from the food you eat and is also made in your liver and muscles. Your blood carries the glucose to all of the cells in your body. Insulin is a chemical (a hormone) made by the pancreas. The pancreas releases insulin into the blood. Insulin helps the glucose from food get into your cells. If your body does not make enough insulin or if the insulin doesn't work the way it should, glucose can't get into your cells. It stays in your blood instead. Your blood glucose level then gets too high, causing pre-diabetes or diabetes." } ]

[ "diabetes" ]