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When to seek urgent medical care when I have Genital herpes ? | Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have any symptoms of genital herpes, or if you develop fever, headache, vomiting, or widespread symptoms during or after an outbreak of herpes. Also call if you are unable to urinate. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Genital herpes (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Once you are infected, the virus stays in your body for the rest of your life. Some people never have another episode, and others have frequent outbreaks. In most outbreaks, there is no obvious trigger. Many people, however, find that attacks of genital herpes occur with the following conditions:
Fatigue General illness (from mild illnesses to serious conditions, such as operations, heart attacks, and pneumonia) Immunosuppression due to AIDS or medication such as chemotherapy or steroids Menstruation Physical or emotional stress Trauma to the affected area, including sexual activity
In people with a normal immune system, genital herpes remains a localized and bothersome infection, but is rarely life-threatening. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Genital wart? | Genital warts can be raised or flat, and are usually flesh-colored. They may appear as cauliflower-like growths. Sometimes they are so small and flat that they cannot be seen with the naked eye. Common places to find genital warts:
Females most often have warts inside or around the vagina or anus, on the skin around these areas, or on the cervix. Males most often have warts on the penis, scrotum, groin area, or thighs, as well as inside or around the anus in those who have anal intercourse. Both males and females may have warts on the lips, mouth, tongue, palate, or throat (larynx)
Other symptoms are rare, but may include:
Increased dampness or moisture in the area of the growths Increased vaginal discharge Itching of the penis, scrotum, anal area, or vulva Vaginal bleeding, with or after sexual intercourse | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Genital wart? | The virus that causes genital warts is called human papilloma virus (HPV). More than 70 different types of HPV exist.
Several types of HPV cause genital warts, which may be found on the penis, vulva, urethra, vagina, cervix, larynx, and around and in the anus. Other types of HPV cause common or flat warts on other parts of the skin, such as the hands. However, warts on the hands or other parts of the body do not cause genital warts.
HPV infection around the genitals is common, although most people have no symptoms. Even if you do NOT have symptoms, however, you must be treated to prevent complications and spreading the condition to others. In women, HPV can invade the walls of the vagina and cervix. These warts are flat and not easy to see without special procedures. Certain types of HPV can lead to precancerous changes in the cervix, cervical cancer, or anal cancer. These are called high-risk types of HPV. The following are important facts about how HPV and genital warts can be spread:
HPV infection is passed from one person to another through sexual contact involving the skin of the anus, mouth, or vagina, or the mucus membrane. It is possible for genital warts and HPV to spread, even when no warts can be seen. You may not see warts for at least 6 weeks to 6 months after becoming infected with HPV. It may also take longer, even years, so when you first notice genital warts, it does not mean that you or your partner has had sexual contact with someone outside of your relationship. Not everyone who has been exposed to the HPV virus and genital warts wil develop them.
The following factors put you at higher risk for getting genital warts, having them spread more quickly, having them return, or having other complications of HPV:
Having multiple sexual partners Not knowing whether someone you had sex with had STIs Becoming sexually active at an early age Using tobacco and alcohol Having stress and other viral infections (such as herpes) at the same time Being pregnant Having an immune system that does not work well, such as during cancer treatment or AIDS
If a child has genital warts, you should suspect sexual abuse as a possible cause. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Genital wart ? | People with history of unprotected sexual intercourse are at increased risks of genital wart. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Genital wart ? | A current or past sexual partner has genital warts You have visible warts on your external genitals, itching, discharge, or abnormal vaginal bleeding. Keep in mind that genital warts may not appear for months to years after having sexual contact with an infected person. You think a young child might have genital warts Women should begin having Pap smears at age 21. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Genital wart (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Most sexually active young women become infected with HPV. In many cases, HPV goes away on its own. Most men who become infected with HPV never develop any symptoms or problems from the infection. However, they can pass it on to current and sometimes future sexual partners. Even after you have been treated for genital warts, you may still infect others. Certain types of genital warts increase a woman's risk for cancer of the cervix and vulva. Possible Complications Some types of HPV have been found to cause cancer of the cervix and vulva. They are the main cause of cervical cancer. The types of HPV that can cause genital warts are not the same as the types that can cause penile or anal cancer. The warts may become numerous and quite large, requiring more extensive treatment and follow-up procedures. When to Contact a Medical Professional | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Giant congenital nevus? | A nevus will appear as dark-colored patch with any of the following:
Brown to bluish-black color Hair Regular or uneven borders Small satellite areas (maybe) Smooth, irregular, or wart-like skin surface
Nevi are commonly found on the upper or lower parts of the back or the abdomen. They may also be found on the:
Arms Legs Mouth Mucus membranes Palms or soles | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Giant congenital nevus? | Bathing trunk nevi are thought to be caused by defects or problems that occur as a baby grows in the womb. However, in some families bathing trunk nevi may be inherited.
A bathing trunk nevus may occur with:
Growth of fatty tissue cells (lipomas) Neurofibromatosis Other nevi Spina bifida
Smaller congenital pigmented or melanocytic nevi are common in children and lead to fewer complications. Larger or giant nevi are fairly rare. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Giant congenital nevus ? | Giant congenital nevus occur in infants. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Giant congenital nevus ? | This condition is usually diagnosed at birth. Call for an appointment with your health care provider (or mention it during a well-baby exam) if your child has a large pigmented area anywhere on the skin. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Giant congenital nevus (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Skin cancer (such as malignant melanoma and other types) may develop in up to 15% (1 out of 6) of people with larger or giant nevi, often in childhood. The risk is higher for larger or giant congenital nevi located on the back or abdomen. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the Symptoms of Glomus tumor? | Episodes of pain radiating away from the lesion, often out of proportion relative to the small size of the tumor.
Pain can be reproduced by placing in cold water. | Answer this question truthfully |
What Causes Glomus tumor? | Evidence regarding the causes of glomus tumor remain insufficient. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Glomus tumor patient information? | Women area t higher risk of developing single glomus tumors while multiple glomus tumors are more commonly seen among males.
Glomus tumors that occur as a single lesion are usually more frequent in adults. On the other hand, glomus tumors with multiple lesions are more commonly seen around 15 years earlier than the single lesions. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Glomus tumor patient information (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Prognosis is generally excellent for single glomus tumors tumors treated with wide excision.
However, the prognosis is poor for malignant glomus tumors with widespread metastases. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Hair loss? | Hair loss usually develops gradually and may be patchy or all over (diffuse). You lose roughly 100 hairs from your head every day. The average scalp contains about 100,000 hairs. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Hair loss? | A sudden physical or emotional stress may cause one-half to three-quarters of the hair throughout your scalp to shed (called Telogen effluvium). You will notice hair coming out in handfuls while you shampoo, comb, or run your hands through your hair. You may not notice this for weeks to months after the episode of stress. The hair shedding will decrease over 6 - 8 months.
Cause of this type of hair loss are:
Childbirth Crash diets, especially those that do not contain enough protein High fever or severe infection Major surgery, major illness, sudden blood loss A number of medications, including retinoids, birth control pills, beta-blockers, certain antidepressants, NSAIDs (including iburpofen) and calcium channel blockers Severe emotional stress
Other possible causes of hair loss, especially if it is in an unusual pattern, include:
Alopecia areata -- bald patches that develop on the scalp, beard, and, possibly, eyebrows. Eyelashes may fall out as well. Anemia Autoimmune conditions such as lupus Burns Certain infectious diseases such as syphilis Excessive shampooing and blow-drying Hormone changes Nervous habits such as continual hair pulling or scalp rubbing Radiation therapy Thyroid diseases Tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp) Tumor of the ovary or adrenal glands | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Hair loss ? | Some women ages 30 - 60 may notice a thinning of the hair that affects the entire scalp. The hair loss may be heavier at first, and then gradually slow or stop. There is no known cause for this type of hair loss.
Both men and women tend to lose hair thickness and amount as they age. Baldness is not usually caused by a disease. It is related to aging, heredity, and changes in the hormome, testosterone. Inherited or "pattern baldness" affects many more men than women. About one-half of men begin to bald by the time they are 30 years old, and most are either bald or have a balding pattern by age 60. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Hair loss ? | Call your doctor if:
You are losing hair in an unusual pattern You are losing hair rapidly or at an early age (for example, in your teens or twenties) You have any pain or itching with the hair loss The skin on your scalp under the involved area is red, scaly, or otherwise abnormal You have acne, facial hair, or an abnormal menstrual cycle You are a woman and have male pattern baldness You have bald spots on your beard or eyebrows You have been gaining weight or have muscle weakness, intolerance to cold temperatures, or fatigue | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Hair loss (Outlook/Prognosis)? | A careful medical history and examination of the hair and scalp are usually enough to diagnose the cause of your hair loss.
Your doctor will ask detailed questions such as:
Are you losing hair only from your scalp or from other parts of your body as well? Is there a pattern to the hair loss, like a receding hairline or thinning or bald areas on the crown, or is the hair loss throughout your head? Have you had a recent illness or high fever ? Do you dye your hair ? Do you blow dry your hair? How often? How often do you shampoo your hair? What kind of shampoo, hair spray, gel, or other product do you put on your hair? Have you been under unusual stress lately? Do you have nervous habits that include hair pulling or scalp rubbing? Do you have any other symptoms like itching, flaking, or redness of your scalp? What medications do you take, including over-the-counter drugs?
Tests that may be performed (but are rarely needed) include:
Blood tests to rule out disease Microscopic examination of a plucked hair Skin biopsy
Ringworm on the scalp may require the use of an oral drug, such as griseofulvin. Creams and lotions applied to the affected area may not get into the hair follicles to kill the fungus. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Hand-foot-and-mouth disease? | Fever Headache Loss of appetite Rash with very small blisters on hands, feet, and diaper area; may be tender or painful if pressed Sore throat Ulcers in the throat (including tonsils), mouth, and tongue | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Hand-foot-and-mouth disease? | Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD) is most commonly caused by coxsackievirus A16, a member of the enterovirus family.
The disease is not spread from pets, but it can be spread by person to person. You may catch it if you come into direct contact with nose and throat discharges, saliva, fluid from blisters, or the stools of an infected person. You are most contagious the first week you have the disease.
The time between infection and the development of symptoms is about 3 - 7 days. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Hand-foot-and-mouth disease ? | The most important risk factor is age. The infection occurs most often in children under age 10, but can be seen in adolescents and occasionally adults. The outbreaks occur most often in the summer and early fall. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Hand-foot-and-mouth disease ? | Call your doctor if there are signs of complications, such as pain in neck or arms and legs. Emergency symptoms include convulsions.
You should also call if:
A high fever is not reduced by medication Signs of dehydration occur: Dry skin and mucus membranes Weight loss Irritability Lethargy Decreased or dark urine | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Generally, complete recovery occurs in 5 to 7 days. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Henoch-Schönlein purpura? | Abdominal pain Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Bloody stools Joint pain Purple spots on the skin (purpura), usually over the buttocks, lower legs, and elbows Hives or angioedema Painful menstruation | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Henoch-Schönlein purpura? | Henoch-Schonlein is caused by an abnormal response of the immune system. It is unclear why this occurs.
The syndrome is usually seen in children, but it may affect people of any age. It is more common in boys than in girls. Many people with Henoch-Schonlein purpura had an upper respiratory illness in the weeks before. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Henoch-Sch%C3%B6nlein purpura ? | Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:
You develop symptoms of Henoch-Schonlein purpura, particularly if they last for more than a few days You have low urine output after an episode of Henoch-Schonlein purpura | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Henoch-Sch%C3%B6nlein purpura (Outlook/Prognosis)? | The disease usually gets better on its own without treatment. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis C? | The incubation period for hepatitis C is 2 weeks to 6 months. When first infected with the hepatitis C virus many people may not feel ill. Approximately 70%–80% of people with acute hepatitis C do not have any symptoms. Others may find their urine becomes dark and their eyes and their skin may turn yellow (jaundice) or they may experience a minor ‘flu-like’ illness. Other symptoms of acute hepatitis C include:
Fever Fatigue Loss of appetite Nausea Vomiting Abdominal pain Dark urine Clay-colored bowel movements Joint pain Jaundice (yellow color in the skin or eyes)
These symptoms may disappear within a few weeks, but this does not necessarily mean that the infection has also gone.
If you have hepatitis symptoms, or think you have been put at risk, you should consult your doctor. A blood test can determine if you have hepatitis C. When a person has the virus for more than six months the illness is called chronic hepatitis C.
Most people with chronic hepatitis C do not have any symptoms. However, if a person has been infected for many years, his or her liver may be damaged. In many cases, there are no symptoms of the disease until liver problems have developed. In persons without symptoms, hepatitis C is often detected during routine blood tests≠≠ to measure liver function and liver enzymes (protein produced by the liver) level. The symptoms of chronic hepatitis C may be:
Mild to severe lethargy (tiredness) Loss of appetite Nausea and vomiting Soreness in the upper right part of the belly (under the ribs) Fever and flu -like symptoms Joint pain
In many cases people who have chronic hepatitis C may not feel ill.
Even if a person with hepatitis C has no symptoms, he or she can still spread the virus to others. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Hepatitis C? | The hepatitis C virus is present in the blood of an infected person. If infected blood enters another person’s blood stream, that person may get the virus. People can get hepatitis C by:
Sharing drug-injecting equipment such as needles, syringes and spoons Tattooing and body piercing using equipment that has not been properly cleaned and sterilised Sharing toothbrushes, razor blades or other similar personal items that could have small amounts of blood on them One person’s blood coming into contact with open cuts on another person Needlestick injuries in the health care setting In some countries, HCV is transmitted via the transfusion of unscreened blood and blood products;
Mothers with hepatitis C may on rare occasions pass the virus to their babies during pregnancy, or at the time of birth. Breastfeeding is considered safe and only cracked or bleeding nipples may be a problem.
Sexual transmission rates of hepatitis C are very low, but the risk is increased with certain sexual practices or circumstances where there is the possibility of blood-to-blood contact (for example, sex during menstruation). The risk increases for those who have multiple sex partners, have a sexually transmitted disease, or are infected with HIV. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Hepatitis C ? | Early diagnosis can prevent health problems that may result from infection, and prevent transmission of the virus.
Some countries recommend screening for people who may be at increased risk of infection.
People in increased risk for hepatitis C infection, include:
Current injection drug users (currently the most common way hepatitis C virus is spread in the United States) Past injection drug users, including those who injected only one time or many years ago Recipients of donated blood, blood products, and organs (once a common way of transmission but now rare in the United States since blood screening became available in 1992) People who received a blood product for clotting problems made before 1987 Hemodialysis patients or persons who spent many years on dialysis for kidney failure People who received body piercing or tattoos done with non-sterile instruments People with known exposures to the hepatitis C virus, such as healthcare workers HIV -infected persons Children born to mothers infected with the hepatitis C virus Having sexual contact with a person who is infected with the hepatitis C virus Sharing personal care items, such as razors or toothbrushes, that may have come in contact with the blood of an infected person | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Hepatitis C ? | Talk to your doctor about being tested for hepatitis C if any of the following are true:
You are a current or former injection drug user, even if you injected only one time or many years ago You were treated for a blood clotting problem before 1987 You received a blood transfusion or organ transplant before July 1992 You are on long-term hemodialysis treatment You have abnormal liver tests or liver disease You work in healthcare or public safety and were exposed to blood through a needlestick or other sharp object injury You are infected with HIV | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Hepatitis C (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Chronic hepatitis C is a serious disease that can result in long-term health problems, including liver damage, liver failure, liver cancer, or even death.
It is the leading cause of cirrhosis and liver cancer and the most common reason for liver transplantation in the United States. Approximately 8,000–10,000 people die every year from hepatitis C related liver disease.
Of every 100 people infected with the hepatitis C virus, about:
75–85 people will develop chronic hepatitis C virus infection. Of those: 60–70 people will go on to develop chronic liver disease 5–20 people will go on to develop cirrhosis over a period of 20–30 years 1–5 people will die from cirrhosis or liver cancer
Some people who have hepatitis C choose to make changes to their lives, such as reducing alcohol intake, maintaining a well balanced diet that is low in fat and considering overall health maintenance.
You should also:
Consult your doctor who will monitor your condition and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist. Consider being immunized against other hepatitis viruses for which there are vaccines (ie hepatitis A and hepatitis B) Completely cover any cut or wound with a waterproof dressing
If you have hepatitis C you should not:
share injecting equipment donate blood or body organs share personal items such as toothbrushes or razors
Although there is no legal obligation to do so, you may wish to discuss your condition with your health care provider (doctor, dentist, naturopath) for optimal health care. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis D? | Hepatitis D may make the symptoms of hepatitis B more severe. Symptoms may include:
Abdominal pain Dark urine Fatigue Jaundice Joint pain Loss of appetite Nausea Vomiting
Exams and Tests
Anti-delta agent antibody Liver biopsy Liver enzymes (blood test) | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Hepatitis D? | Hepatitis D or delta hepatitis is caused by the hepatitis delta virus (HDV), a defective RNA virus. HDV requires the help of a virus like the hepatitis B virus (HBV) for its own replication. Hepatitis D virus (HDV) is only found in people who carry the hepatitis B virus. HDV may make a recent (acute) hepatitis B infection or an existing long-term (chronic) hepatitis B liver disease worse. It can even cause symptoms in people who carry hepatitis B virus but who never had symptoms. Hepatitis D occurs in 5% of people who carry hepatitis B.
Risk factors include:
Using intravenous (IV) or injection drugs Being infected while pregnant (the mother can pass the virus to the baby) Carrying the hepatitis B virus Men having sexual intercourse with other men Receiving many blood transfusions
Transmission is similar to that of HBV:
Bloodborne and sexual Percutaneous (injecting drug use, haemophiliacs) Permucosal (sexual) Rare perinatal
HDV is transmitted percutaneously or sexually through contact with infected blood or blood products.
Blood is potentially infectious during all phases of active hepatitis D infection. Peak infectivity probably occurs just before the onset of acute disease. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Hepatitis D ? | Risk factors include:
Chronic Hepatitis B Virus carriers are at risk for infection with HDV Using intravenous (IV) or injection drugs Being infected while pregnant (the mother can pass the virus to the baby) Carrying the hepatitis B virus Men having sexual intercourse with other men Receiving many blood transfusions People exposed to unscreened blood or blood products Haemophiliacs
Since HDV absolutely requires the support of hepatitis B virus for its own replication, inoculation with HDV in the absence of HBV will not cause hepatitis D. Alone, the viral genome indeed replicates in a helper-independent manner, but virus particles are not released
Individuals who are not infected with HBV, and have not been immunized against HBV, are at risk of infection with HBV with simultaneous or subsequent infection with HDV. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Hepatitis D ? | Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of hepatitis B. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Hepatitis D (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Persons with an acute HDV infection usually get better over 2 to 3 weeks.
Liver enzyme levels return to normal within 16 weeks.
About 10% of those who are infected may develop long-term (chronic) liver inflammation (hepatitis). | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Hepatitis E ? | The incubation period following exposure to the hepatitis E virus ranges from three to eight weeks, with a mean of 40 days.
The incidence of hepatitis E is highest in adults between the ages of 15 and 40. Though children often contract this infection as well, they less frequently become symptomatic.
Typical signs and symptoms of hepatitis include:
Fever Jaundice (yellow discolouration of the skin and sclera of the eyes, dark urine and pale stools) Malaise Loss of appetite Nausea Vomiting Abdominal pain Fever Hepatomegaly Other less common features include diarrhea, arthralgia, pruritus, and urticarial rash
Some patients have asymptomatic infection. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Hepatitis E (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Mortality rates are generally low, for Hepatitis E is a “self-limiting” disease, in that it usually goes away by itself and the patient recovers. In rare cases, acute hepatitis E can result in fulminant hepatitis (acute liver failure) and death.
Fulminant hepatitis occurs more frequently during pregnancy. Pregnant women are at greater risk of obstetrical complications and mortality from hepatitis E, which can induce a mortality rate of 20% among pregnant women in their third trimester.
Cases of chronic hepatitis E infection have been reported in immunosuppressed people. Reactivation of hepatitis E infection has also been reported in immunocompromised people. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia? | Frequent nosebleeds in children GI bleeding, including loss of blood in the stool or dark black stools Port-wine stain Seizures or unexplained, small strokes (from bleeding into the brain) Shortness of breath Telangiectases on the tongue, lips, nasal mucosa, face, ears, fingertips, nails, whites of the eyes, and skin (they may bleed easily) | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia? | Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia is an inherited condition. It can affect males or females of any ethnic or racial group.
People with this condition can develop abnormal blood vessels called arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in several areas of the body. If they are on the skin, they are called telangiectasias. The AVMs can also develop in other areas of the body, such as the brain, lungs, liver, or intestines.
The syndrome is genetic, which means it results from an abnormality in one of a few genes. Scientists have identified some of the genes involved. However, they do not know exactly how the gene defects lead to the abnormal blood vessels seen in persons with this syndrome. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia ? | This is a genetic disorder, so people at risk are those who have a family history of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia ? | Call your health care provider if your child has frequent nose bleeds or other signs of this disease. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (Outlook/Prognosis)? | People with this syndrome can live a completely normal lifespan, depending on the parts of the body where the AVMs are located. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Herpes zoster? | The first symptom is usually one-sided pain, tingling, or burning. The pain and burning may be severe and is usually present before any rash appears. Red patches on the skin, followed by small blisters, form in most people.
The blisters break, forming small ulcers that begin to dry and form crusts. The crusts fall off in 2 to 3 weeks. Scarring is rare. The rash usually involves a narrow area from the spine around to the front of the belly area or chest. The rash may involve face, eyes, mouth, and ears.
Additional symptoms may include:
Abdominal pain Chills Difficulty moving some of the muscles in the face Drooping eyelid (ptosis) Fever and chills General ill-feeling Genital lesions Headache Hearing loss Joint pain Loss of eye motion Swollen glands (lymph nodes) Taste problems Vision problems | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Herpes zoster? | After you get chickenpox, the virus remains inactive (becomes dormant) in certain nerves in the body. Shingles occurs after the virus becomes active again in these nerves years later. The reason the virus suddenly become active again is not clear. Often only one attack occurs. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Herpes zoster ? | Shingles may develop in any age group, but you are more likely to develop the condition if:
You are older than 60 You had chickenpox before age 1 Your immune system is weakened by medications or disease
If an adult or child has direct contact with the shingles rash on someone and has not had chickenpox as a child or a chickenpox vaccine, they can develop chickenpox, rather than shingles. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Herpes zoster ? | Herpes zoster usually clears in 2 to 3 weeks and rarely recurs. If the virus affects the nerves that control movement (the motor nerves), you may have temporary or permanent weakness or paralysis. Sometimes, the pain in the area where the shingles occurred may last from months to years. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Herpes zoster (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Herpes zoster usually clears in 2 to 3 weeks and rarely recurs. If the virus affects the nerves that control movement (the motor nerves), you may have temporary or permanent weakness or paralysis. Sometimes, the pain in the area where the shingles occurred may last from months to years. See: Postherpetic neuralgia | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Histoplasmosis? | Chills Cough that brings up blood, mucus, or pus Fever Shortness of breath Unintentional weight loss | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Histoplasmosis? | Histoplasma capsulatum is a fungus found in the soil of the central and eastern United States (especially Mississippi and Ohio river valleys), eastern Canada, Mexico, Central America, and South America. The infection occurs when a person breathes in the reproducing parts of the fungus, called spores. Those who have a healthy immune system usually do not have symptoms, or only mild ones. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Histoplasmosis ? | This "acute" infection does not last, but can leave a person with small scars (granulomas). These scars can be difficult to distinguish from tumors in the lung. However, the infection can cause severe illness right away, or redevelop years after the first exposure, if a person's immune system is weakened by:
Cancer Chemotherapy Immune-suppressing drugs HIV infection
Risk factors for chronic pulmonary histoplasmosis include:
Living in or traveling to central or eastern United States Exposure to soil or particles contaminated with droppings of chickens, bats, or blackbirds Pre-existing COPD Weakened immune system, such as in people who have AIDS | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Histoplasmosis ? | Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of chronic pulmonary histoplasmosis. Call your health care provider if your symptoms continue despite treatment, or if you have breathing difficulty or symptoms of disseminated histoplasmosis. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Histoplasmosis (Outlook/Prognosis)? | The infection usually goes away with antifungal medication, but scarring inside the lung often remains. Histoplasmosis is unusual enough that if you develop it, your health care provider should check to find out whether another disease is weakening your immune system. Often, those who have had chronic pulmonary histoplasmosis must follow up with their doctor, who will check for signs of relapse. In rare cases, a pulmonary histoplasmosis infection can spread through the blood to other organs. This is called disseminated histoplasmosis. People who have a suppressed immune system and very young children are more likely to develop this condition. If this occurs, the prognosis is less favorable. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Hives? | Itching Swelling of the surface of the skin into red- or skin-colored welts (called wheals) with clearly defined edges
The hives may get bigger, spread, and join together to form larger areas of flat, raised skin.
They can also change shape, disappear, and reappear within minutes or hours. A true hive comes and goes. When you press the center of one, it turns white. This is called blanching. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Hives? | When you have an allergic reaction to a substance, your body releases histamine and other chemicals into your bloodstream. This causes itching, swelling, and other symptoms. Hives are a common reaction, especially in people with other allergies such as hay fever.
When swelling or welts occur around the face, especially the lips and eyes, it is called angioedema. Swelling from angioedema can also occur around your hands, feet, and throat.
Many substances can trigger hives, including:
Animal dander (especially cats) Insect bites Medications Pollen Shellfish, fish, nuts, eggs, milk, and other foods
Hives may also develop as a result of:
Emotional stress Extreme cold or sun exposure Excessive perspiration Illness (including lupus, other autoimmune diseases, and leukemia Infections such as mononucleosis | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Hives ? | Call 911 or your local emergency number if you have:
Fainting Shortness of breath Tightness in your throat Tongue or face swelling Wheezing
Call your health care provider if the hives are severe, uncomfortable, and do not respond to self-care measures. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Hives (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Hives may be uncomfortable, but they generally are harmless and disappear on their own. In most cases, the exact cause of hives cannot be identified. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Human papillomavirus? | HPV may lead to a broad spectrum of diseases. If you are infected you may have no signs or symptoms of HPV infection or, you may have increased risk of developing cancer.
There are over 100 different kinds of HPV and not all of them cause health problems. Some types of HPV may cause problems such as genital warts, while others can cause cancer of the cervix, vagina, vulva, or anus. Most of these problems are caused by types 6, 11, 16 or 18.
When cancer develops, it may affect men and women. According to the CDC, HPV may be involved in different types of cancer, with the following incidences:
Cervical cancer: The most common HPV -associated cancer. Almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV. Vulvar cancer: About 50% are linked to HPV. Vaginal cancer: About 65% are linked to HPV. Penile cancer: About 35% are linked to HPV. Anal cancer: About 95% are linked to HPV. Oropharyngeal cancer: About 60% are linked to HPV. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Human papillomavirus ? | Any person who has ever had sexual contact with another person may be infected with HPV. The virus may infect both men and women. Among other reasons, the population should be aware of this virus, since people may be infected with it, never developing any symptoms and therefore not knowing that they have higher risk of developing disease. The virus may remain in the individual without carrying out any manifestations for years.
You are more likely to be infected by HPV, if you have:
Sex at an early age. Many sex partners. A sex partner who has had many partners. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Human papillomavirus ? | Most people with HPV do not know they are infected and never develop symptoms or health problems from it. Medical care should be sought whenever some abnormality is noticed by the patient. Some people find out they have HPV when they get genital warts. Women may find out they have HPV when they get an abnormal Pap test result (during cervical cancer screening). Others may only find out once they have developed more serious problems from HPV, such as cancers. Therefore it is important to keep regular check-ups with your physician in order to detect abnormalities in their early stages, so that proper treatment may be started. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Human papillomavirus (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Often HPV goes away by itself within two years and does not cause health problems. It is thought that the immune system fights off HPV naturally. It is only when certain types of HPV do not go away over years that it can cause cancer. It is not known why HPV infection resolves in most, but not all cases. Unfortunately, there is no way to know which people will develop cancer or other health problems. Considering that HPV infection may be asymptomatic, some patients may carry the virus and not know that they are infected. Accordingly, the prognosis will depend on the course of the infection, whether it is asymptomatic or it evolves into a cellular abnormality that may lead to cancer. The prognosis will therefore depend on the condition resulting from the cellular abnormalities and how early this is diagnosed, since for instance, a cervical cancer may be cured if diagnosed and operated on early, while if it is only caught late in its course, it may have a fatal outcome. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Hyperhidrosis? | The primary symptom of hyperhidrosis is wetness. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Hyperhidrosis? | Sweating helps the body stay cool. In most cases, it is perfectly natural. People sweat more in warm temperatures, when they exercise, or in response to situations that make them nervous, angry, embarrassed, or afraid.
However, excessive sweating occurs without such triggers. Those with hyperhidrosis appear to have overactive sweat glands. The uncontrollable sweating can lead to significant discomfort, both physical and emotional.
When excessive sweating affects the hands, feet, and armpits, it's called primary or focal hyperhidrosis.
If the sweating occurs as a result of another medical condition, it is called secondary hyperhidrosis. The sweating may be all over the body, or it may be in one area. Conditions that cause second hyperhidrosis include:
Acromegaly Anxiety conditions Cancer Carcinoid syndrome Certain medications and substances of abuse Glucose control disorders Heart disease Hyperthyroidism Lung disease Menopause Parkinson’s disease Pheochromocytoma Spinal cord injury Stroke Tuberculosis or other infections | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Hyperhidrosis ? | Primary hyperhidrosis affects 2 - 3% of the population, yet less than 40% of patients with this condition seek medical advice. In the majority of primary hyperhidrosis cases, no cause can be found. It seems to run in families. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Hyperhidrosis ? | Call your health care provider if you have:
Prolonged, excessive, and unexplained sweating Sweating with or followed by chest pain or pressure Sweating with weight loss Sweating that most often occurs during sleep Sweating with fever, weight loss, chest pain, shortness of breath, or a rapid, pounding heartbeat - these symptoms may be a sign of an underlying disease, such as hyperthyroidism | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Hyperhidrosis (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Aluminum Chloride: Initially a patient may need to use it three to seven times a week. After sweating becomes normal, the person may need to use it only once every one to three weeks. If skin irritation is a problem, a doctor may temporarily prescribe a steroid-based cream.
Botox: Swelling goes away in a few weeks. The effect of a single injection can last up to a few months. Some patients need additional injections.
Iontophoresis: Sweating may be reduced after six to 10 sessions. After that, the person may need treatment once every one to four weeks. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Ichthyosis vulgaris? | Dry skin, severe Scaly skin (scales) Possible skin thickening Mild itching of the skin
The dry, scaly skin is usually most severe over the legs but may also involve the arms, hands, and middle of the body. Persons with this condition may also have many fine lines over the palm of the hand. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Ichthyosis vulgaris? | Ichthyosis vulgaris is one of the most common of the inherited skin disorders. It may begin in early childhood, before age 4. The condition is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern. That means you only need to get the abnormal gene from one parent in order for you to inherit the disease.
The condition is often more noticeable in the winter. It may occur along with atopic dermatitis, keratosis pilaris (small bumps on the back of the arms), or other skin disorders. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Ichthyosis vulgaris ? | Ichthyosis vulgaris is a genetic disorder, so anyone with a family history of the disorder is at risk. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Ichthyosis vulgaris ? | Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:
Symptoms continue despite treatment Symptoms get worse Skin lesions spread New symptoms develop | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Ichthyosis vulgaris (Outlook/Prognosis)? | Ichthyosis vulgaris can be a nuisance, but it rarely affects your overall health. The condition usually disappears during adulthood, but may return years later. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura? | Abnormally heavy menstruation Bleeding into the skin causes a characteristic skin rash that looks like pinpoint red spots (petechial rash) Easy bruising Nosebleed or bleeding in the mouth | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura? | ITP occurs when certain immune system cells produce antibodies against platelets. Platelets help your blood clot by clumping together to plug small holes in damaged blood vessels.
The antibodies attach to the platelets. The spleen destroys the platelets that carry the antibodies.
In children, the disease sometimes follows a viral infection. In adults, it is more often a chronic (long-term) disease and can occur after a viral infection, with use of certain drugs, during pregnancy, or as part of an immune disorder.
ITP affects women more frequently than men, and is more common in children than adults. The disease affects boys and girls equally. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura ? | Go to the emergency room or call the local emergency number (such as 911) if severe bleeding occurs, or if other new symptoms develop. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (Outlook/Prognosis)? | With treatment, the chance of remission (a symptom-free period) is good. Rarely, ITP may become a long-term condition in adults and reappear, even after a symptom-free period. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Impetigo? | A single or possibly many blisters filled with pus; easy to pop and -- when broken -- leave a reddish raw-looking base (in infants) Itching blister: Filled with yellow or honey-colored fluid Oozing and crusting over Rash -- may begin as a single spot, but if person scratches, it may spread to other areas Skin lesions on the face, lips, arms, or legs, that spread to other areas Swollen lymph nodes near the infection (lymphadenopathy) | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Impetigo? | Impetigo is caused by streptococcus (strep) or staphylococcus (staph) bacteria. Methicillin-resistant staph aureus (MRSA) is becoming a common cause. The skin normally has many types of bacteria on it, but intact skin is an effective barrier that keeps bacteria from entering and growing in the body. When there is a break in the skin, bacteria can enter the body and grow there, causing inflammation and infection. Breaks in the skin may occur with:
Animal bites Human bites Injury or trauma to the skin Insect bites
Impetigo may also occur on skin where there is no visible break. It is most common in children, particularly those in unhealthy living conditions. In adults, it may follow other skin disorders or a recent upper respiratory infection such as a cold or other virus. It is similar to cellulitis, but it only involves the top layers of the skin. Impetigo is contagious, meaning it can spread to others. You can catch this infection if the fluid that oozes from the blisters touches an open area on your skin. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Impetigo ? | The skin normally has many types of bacteria on it, but intact skin is an effective barrier that keeps bacteria from entering and growing in the body. When there is a break in the skin, bacteria can enter the body and grow there, causing inflammation and infection. Breaks in the skin may occur with:
Animal bites Human bites Injury or trauma to the skin Insect bites | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Impetigo ? | Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have symptoms of impetigo | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Impetigo (Outlook/Prognosis)? | The sores of impetigo heal slowly and seldom scar. The cure rate is extremely high, but the condition often comes back in young children. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Incontinentia pigmenti? | Infants with IP are born with streaky, blistering areas. When the areas heal, they turn into rough bumps. Eventually, these bumps go away, but leave behind darkened skin, called hyperpigmentation. After several years, the skin returns to normal. In some adults, there may be areas of lighter colored skin (hypopigmentation).
IP is associated with central nervous system problems, including:
Delayed development Loss of movement (paralysis) Mental retardation Muscle spasms Seizures
Persons with IP may also have abnormal teeth, hair loss, and visual problems. | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Incontinentia pigmenti? | Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is caused by a genetic defect. In most cases, there is a problem with one of the genes located on the X chromosome.
Most babies born with IP develop discolored skin within the first 2 weeks. The discolored skin occurs when a substance called melanin builds up under the skin. Melanin gives skin its color. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Incontinentia pigmenti ? | The condition is most often seen in females. When it occurs in males, it can be deadly. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Incontinentia pigmenti ? | Call your health care provider if:
You have a family history of IP and are considering having children Your child has symptoms of this disorder | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Incontinentia pigmenti (Outlook/Prognosis)? | How well a person does depends on the severity of central nervous system involvement and eye problems. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Incontinentia pigmenti achromians? | Crossed eyes (strabismus) Increased body hair (hirsutism) Scoliosis Seizures Streaked, whirled or mottled patchs of skin on the arms, legs, and middle of the body Varying degrees of retardation | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Incontinentia pigmenti achromians? | The cause is unknown. | Answer this question truthfully |
Who is at highest risk for Incontinentia pigmenti achromians ? | It is slightly more common in girls than in boys. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Incontinentia pigmenti achromians ? | Call your health care provider if your child exhibits an unusual pattern of the color of the skin. | Answer this question truthfully |
What to expect if I have Incontinentia pigmenti achromians (Outlook/Prognosis)? | What happens depends on the type and severity of symptoms that develop. In most cases, the skin pigment eventually returns to normal. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Insect bites and stings? | The nonemergency symptoms vary according to the type of insect and the individual. Most people have localized pain, redness, swelling, or itching. You may also feel burning, numbness, or tingling. | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Insect bites and stings ? | Call 911 if the person is having a severe reaction:
Trouble breathing, wheezing, shortness of breath Swelling anywhere on the face or in the mouth Throat tightness or difficulty swallowing Feeling weak Turning blue | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Itch? | There are many causes of itching, including:
Aging skin Atopic dermatitis Contact dermatitis (poison ivy or poison oak) Contact irritants (such as soaps, chemicals, or wool) Dry skin Hives Insect bites and stings Parasites such as pinworm, body lice, head lice, and pubic lice Pityriasis rosea Psoriasis Rashes (may or may not itch) Seborrheic dermatitis Sunburn Superficial skin infections such as folliculitis and impetigo
Generalized itching may be caused by:
Allergic reactions Childhood infections (such as chickenpox or measles) Hepatitis Iron deficiency anemia Kidney disease Liver disease with jaundice Pregnancy Reactions to medications and substances such as antibiotics (penicillin, sulfonamides), gold, griseofulvin, isoniazid, opiates, phenothiazines, or vitamin A | Answer this question truthfully |
When to seek urgent medical care when I have Itch ? | Call your doctor or nurse if you have itching and:
Other, unexplained symptoms Is severe Does not go away Cannot be easily explained
Most itching does not require medical evaluation. Look for an obvious cause of itching at home.
It is sometimes easy for a parent to find the cause of a child's itching. Looking closely at the skin will help you identify any bites, stings, rashes, dry skin, or irritation. Often the cause of itching is fairly obvious, such as a mosquito bite.
Have the itching checked out as soon as possible if it keeps returning and does not have an obvious cause, you have total body itching, or you have hives that keep returning. Unexplained itching may be a symptom of a disease that could be serious. | Answer this question truthfully |
What are the symptoms of Jock itch ? | Itching in groin, thigh skin folds, or anus Red, raised, scaly patches that may blister and ooze -- The patches often have sharply-defined edges and are often redder around the outside with normal skin tone in the center Abnormally dark or light skin | Answer this question truthfully |
What causes Jock itch ? | Jock itch occurs when a particular type of fungus grows and spreads in the groin area.
Jock itch can be triggered by friction from clothes and prolonged wetness in the groin area, such as from sweating.
Jock itch may be contagious. It can be passed from one person to the next by direct skin-to-skin contact or contact with unwashed clothing. | Answer this question truthfully |