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<human>: Where can a cleft lip and a cleft palate occur? <bot>: Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: What does orthodontic care involve for a cleft lip and cleft palate? <bot>: The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: What causes a cleft lip and cleft palate? <bot>: In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: What is a cleft palate? <bot>: A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: What is the outlook for children with cleft lip and/or cleft palate? <bot>: Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: How are cleft lip and cleft palate diagnosed? <bot>: A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: How can dental problems happen from a cleft lip and cleft palate? <bot>: This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: What does the treatment for cleft lip and cleft palate involve? <bot>: Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: What does early dental care involve for a cleft lip and cleft palate? <bot>: However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: What is the recommended dental care for children with a cleft lip and/or cleft palate? <bot>: Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.,context: Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother. Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly. A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip. This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum. A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth. A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth). Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth. Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together. Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent. Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate. However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip. In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown. These conditions cannot be prevented. Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem. Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy. Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate. Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis. Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb. In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition. Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose. Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child. If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth. Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities. Eating problems. With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose. Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available. Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided. Ear infections/hearing loss. Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear. If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss. To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year. Speech problems. Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking. These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand. Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some. For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties. Dental Problems. Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments. In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect. The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth. A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming. These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery. Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children. Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient. Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood. A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed. The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old. Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years. The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old. The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones. Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw. About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech. Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth. Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw. Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed. Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating. Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children. However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring. Early dental care. Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth. Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt. If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist. A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth. Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems. Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age. Orthodontic care. A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth. The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development. After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs. After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth. Prosthodontic care. A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team. He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal. The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist., Cleft lip and cleft palate are facial and oral malformations that occur very early in pregnancy, while the baby is developing inside the mother.Clefting results when there is not enough tissue in the mouth or lip area, and the tissue that is available does not join together properly.A cleft lip is a physical split or separation of the two sides of the upper lip and appears as a narrow opening or gap in the skin of the upper lip.This separation often extends beyond the base of the nose and includes the bones of the upper jaw and/or upper gum.A cleft palate is a split or opening in the roof of the mouth.A cleft palate can involve the hard palate (the bony front portion of the roof of the mouth), and/or the soft palate (the soft back portion of the roof of the mouth).Cleft lip and cleft palate can occur on one or both sides of the mouth.Because the lip and the palate develop separately, it is possible to have a cleft lip without a cleft palate, a cleft palate without a cleft lip, or both together.Cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, affects one in 700 babies annually, and is the fourth most common birth defect in the U. S. Clefts occur more often in children of Asian, Latino, or Native American descent.Compared with girls, twice as many boys have a cleft lip, both with and without a cleft palate.However, compared with boys, twice as many girls have cleft palate without a cleft lip.In most cases, the cause of cleft lip and cleft palate is unknown.These conditions cannot be prevented.Most scientists believe clefts are due to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.There appears to be a greater chance of clefting in a newborn if a sibling, parent, or relative has had the problem.Another potential cause may be related to a medication a mother may have taken during her pregnancy.Some drugs may cause cleft lip and cleft palate.Among them: anti-seizure/anticonvulsant drugs, acne drugs containing Accutane, and methotrexate, a drug commonly used for treating cancer, arthritis, and psoriasis.Cleft lip and cleft palate may also occur as a result of exposure to viruses or chemicals while the fetus is developing in the womb.In other situations, cleft lip and cleft palate may be part of another medical condition.Because clefting causes very obvious physical changes, a cleft lip or cleft palate is easy to diagnose.Prenatal ultrasound can sometimes determine if a cleft exists in an unborn child.If the clefting has not been detected in an ultrasound prior to the baby's birth, a physical exam of the mouth, nose, and palate confirms the presence of cleft lip or cleft palate after a child's birth.Sometimes diagnostic testing may be conducted to determine or rule out the presence of other abnormalities.Eating problems.With a separation or opening in the palate, food and liquids can pass from the mouth back through the nose.Fortunately, specially designed baby bottles and nipples that help keep fluids flowing downward toward the stomach are available.Children with a cleft palate may need to wear a man-made palate to help them eat properly and ensure that they are receiving adequate nutrition until surgical treatment is provided.Ear infections/hearing loss.Children with cleft palate are at increased risk of ear infections since they are more prone to fluid build-up in the middle ear.If left untreated, ear infections can cause hearing loss.To prevent this from happening, children with cleft palate usually need special tubes placed in the eardrums to aid fluid drainage, and their hearing needs to be checked once a year.Speech problems.Children with cleft lip or cleft palate may also have trouble speaking.These children's voices don't carry well, the voice may take on a nasal sound, and the speech may be difficult to understand.Not all children have these problems and surgery may fix these problems entirely for some.For others, a special doctor, called speech pathologist, will work with the child to resolve speech difficulties.Dental Problems.Children with clefts are more prone to a larger than average number of cavities and often have missing, extra, malformed, or displaced teeth requiring dental and orthodontic treatments.In addition, children with cleft palate often have an alveolar ridge defect.The alveolus is the bony upper gum that contains teeth.A defect in the alveolus can (1) displace, tip, or rotate permanent teeth, (2) prevent permanent teeth from appearing, and (3) prevent the alveolar ridge from forming.These problems can usually be repaired through oral surgery.Due to the number of oral health and medical problems associated with a cleft lip or cleft palate, a team of doctors and other specialists is usually involved in the care of these children.Members of a cleft lip and palate team typically include: Plastic surgeon to evaluate and perform necessary surgeries on the lip and/or palate An otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor) to evaluate hearing problems and consider treatment options for hearing problems An oral surgeon to reposition segments of the upper jaw when needed, to improve function and appearance and to repair the cleft of the gum An orthodontist to straighten and reposition teeth A dentist to perform routine dental care A prosthodontist to make artificial teeth and dental appliances to improve the appearance and to meet functional requirements for eating and speaking A speech pathologist to assess speech and feeding problems A speech therapist to work with the child to improve speech An audiologist (a specialist in communication disorders stemming from a hearing impairment); to assess and monitor hearing A nurse coordinator to provide ongoing supervision of the child's health A social worker/psychologist to support the family and assess any adjustment problems A geneticist to help parents and adult patients understand the chances of having more children with these conditions The health care team works together to develop a plan of care to meet the individual needs of each patient.Treatment usually begins in infancy and often continues through early adulthood.A cleft lip may require one or two surgeries depending on the extent of the repair needed.The initial surgery is usually performed by the time a baby is 3 months old.Repair of a cleft palate often requires multiple surgeries over the course of 18 years.The first surgery to repair the palate usually occurs when the baby is between 6 and 12 months old.The initial surgery creates a functional palate, reduces the chances that fluid will develop in the middle ears, and aids in the proper development of the teeth and facial bones.Children with a cleft palate may also need a bone graft when they are about 8 years old to fill in the upper gum line so that it can support permanent teeth and stabilize the upper jaw.About 20% of children with a cleft palate require further surgeries to help improve their speech.Once the permanent teeth grow in, braces are often needed to straighten the teeth.Additional surgeries may be performed to improve the appearance of the lip and nose, close openings between the mouth and nose, help breathing, and stabilize and realign the jaw.Final repairs of the scars left by the initial surgery will probably not be performed until adolescence, when the facial structure is more fully developed.Although treatment for a cleft lip and/or cleft palate may extend over several years and require several surgeries depending upon the involvement, most children affected by this condition can achieve normal appearance, speech, and eating.Generally, the preventive and restorative dental care needs of children with clefts are the same as for other children.However, children with cleft lip and cleft palate may have special problems related to missing, malformed, or malpositioned teeth that require close monitoring.Early dental care.Like other children, children born with cleft lip and cleft palate require proper cleaning, good nutrition, and fluoride treatment in order to have healthy teeth.Appropriate cleaning with a small, soft-bristled toothbrush should begin as soon as teeth erupt.If a soft children's toothbrush will not adequately clean the teeth because of the modified shape of the mouth and teeth, a toothette may be recommended by your dentist.A toothette is a soft, mouthwash-containing sponge on a handle that's used to swab teeth.Many dentists recommend that the first dental visit be scheduled at about 1 year of age or even earlier if there are special dental problems.Routine dental care can begin around 1 year of age.Orthodontic care.A first orthodontic appointment may be scheduled before the child has any teeth.The purpose of this appointment is to assess facial growth, especially jaw development.After teeth erupt, an orthodontist can further assess a child's short and long-term dental needs.After the permanent teeth erupt, orthodontic treatment can be applied to align the teeth.Prosthodontic care.A prosthodontist is a member of the cleft palate team.He or she may make a dental bridge to replace missing teeth or make special appliances called "speech bulbs" or "palatal lifts" to help close the nose from the mouth so that speech sounds more normal.The prosthodontist coordinates treatment with the oral or plastic surgeon and with the speech pathologist.

<human>: How are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and left-sided heart failure linked? <bot>: It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: How can you tell if it is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart failure that is causing breathing problems? <bot>: Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: What are drugs associated with alcohol interactions? <bot>: Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: What are treatments for severe shortness of breath from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart failure? <bot>: If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: Mixing alcohol and medications can increase the risk of what complications? <bot>: If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: What is the similarities and differences between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and heart failure? <bot>: Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: What are commonly used drugs associated with serious alcohol interactions? <bot>: If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: Why are older Americans at special risk of alcohol interactions with medication? <bot>: Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. It's not directly related to COPD. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: How are chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and right-sided heart failure linked? <bot>: Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: Can alcohol alter the effectiveness of medication? <bot>: Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.,context:Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions. But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance. Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions. With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking. If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest. But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out. That causes shortness of breath. If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently. As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest. With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster. If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs. This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath. Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease. It's not directly related to COPD. But the two conditions may influence each other. For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure. And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD. Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle. This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale. Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area. Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure. If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems. Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure. Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray. With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated. Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD. Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD. Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength. Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart. Every case is different. Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure. Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD. In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms. If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms. To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time. For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well. If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together. Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs. The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways. Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle. Several types of medicines do this. If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health. If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.,Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease ( COPD) and heart failure are different conditions.But both can make you short of breath when you do something physical, like exercise, climbing stairs, or walking for a long distance.Breathing problems happen for different reasons with these conditions.With COPD, it's hard to exhale all of the air in your lungs because of lung damage, often from years of smoking.If you have COPD, you most likely breathe comfortably when you're at rest.But when you're active, your breath starts coming in before air from your last exhale goes out.That causes shortness of breath.If you have heart failure, your heart doesn't pump blood efficiently.As with COPD, if you have heart failure, you can probably breathe easily when at rest.With activity, blood flow must increase, and your heart must pump harder and faster.If your heart can't keep up, blood “backs up” into your lungs.This fluid congestion causes shortness of breath.Left-sided heart failure is most often caused by high blood pressure or coronary artery disease.It's not directly related to COPD.But the two conditions may influence each other.For example, low oxygen in the blood from COPD may put extra strain on your heart, which worsens left-sided heart failure.And too much fluid in your lungs from heart failure can make breathing even harder if you have COPD.Severe COPD can cause heart failure in your heart's lower right chamber, or ventricle.This is a condition called right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.Right-sided heart failure causes fluid to build up in your body, such as in your legs and belly area.Many conditions other than COPD also cause right-sided heart failure.If you have both COPD and heart failure and find yourself short of breath, it can be hard to tell which condition is causing your breathing problems.Your doctor may give you: Physical examination: Listening to your lungs and heart, and looking at the veins in your neck, can help your doctor tell the difference between COPD and heart failure.Chest X-ray: Heart failure may cause fluid in your lungs to be visible on a chest X-ray.With COPD, your lungs are usually clear or may look like they're over-inflated.Brain natriuretic peptide ( BNP) test: This hormone is usually at high levels in your blood if you have heart failure, whether or not you also have COPD.Pulmonary function tests: Doctors can use breathing tests to diagnose COPD.Echocardiogram: An ultrasound test of your heart that can evaluate the heart chambers, valves, and pumping strength.Cardiac enzymes: This blood test can help diagnose a heart attack or too much strain on your heart.Every case is different.Some people have severe COPD and only mild heart failure.Others have severe heart failure and only mild COPD.In these cases, the more severe condition is more likely to be the cause of breathing symptoms.If COPD and heart failure are equally severe, doctors must make their best guess as to which condition is causing your symptoms.To make things even more complicated, COPD and heart failure can at times act up at the same time.For example, if you have worsening heart failure symptoms that cause rapid breathing, this can make COPD symptoms worse, as well.If your doctor can't tell which condition causes your shortness of breath, he'll probably treat both together.Treatments for COPD focus on your lungs and your airways, the branching network of tubes inside the lungs.The main treatments for COPD are bronchodilators, which are inhaled medicines that help open the airways.Heart failure treatments curb the workload on your heart and help prevent unhealthy growth of heart muscle.Several types of medicines do this.If you have severe shortness of breath from COPD and heart failure, you may get other treatments, as well: Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone ( Solu- Medrol), which can improve breathing in people with COPD Antibiotics if any bacterial infection may be part of the problem Supplemental oxygen Non-invasive positive pressure ventilation, a form of machine-assisted breathing Mechanical ventilation, or temporary life support, through a breathing tube IV medicines to ease heart strain And, if you have either condition and smoke, quitting should be a top priority for your health.If you have both COPD and heart failure, a team of doctors will probably treat you, including a primary care physician, a cardiologist, and a pulmonologist, who is a doctor specializing in lung conditions.

<human>: What is the difference between multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)? <bot>: Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. They have similar symptoms, like twitching. Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable.,context:Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. Those are the nerves that control your muscles. The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak. They'll also twitch and cramp. MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger. The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed. But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all. You may be able to work and stay active for many years after your diagnosis. Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease. No one knows what causes MMN. Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders. Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens. If you have MMN, you'll most likely notice the first symptoms in your hands and lower arms. Your muscles may feel weak and cramp up or twitch in a way you can't control. It may start in specific parts of the arm or hand, like the wrist or finger. Usually the symptoms are more severe on one side of your body. The disease may eventually affect your legs. MMN isn't painful, and you'll still be able to feel with your hands and arms because your sensory nerves are not affected. But your symptoms will slowly get worse as you get older. Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. They have similar symptoms, like twitching. Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable. Your doctor may tell you to see a neurologist, a specialist who treats problems with the nervous system. She will give you a physical exam. She'll also ask questions about your symptoms, like: Which muscles are giving you trouble? Is it worse on one side of your body? How long you been feeling this way? Do you have any numbness or tingling? Does anything make your symptoms better? What makes them worse? The doctor will do some nerve and blood tests to rule out other conditions that might cause your symptoms. She may do: A nerve conduction study ( NCS). This test measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves. Usually your doctor will put two sensors on the skin over one of your nerves: one to transmit a small electric shock and the other to record the activity. The doctor will repeat the test on other nerves if she thinks that more than one is involved. A needle electromyography ( EMG). Your doctor will put electrodes on your arms. The electrodes have small needles, which go into your muscle, and they're attached by wires to a machine that can measure the electrical activity in your muscles. Your doctor will ask you to slowly flex and relax your arms so the machine can record the activity. The doctor can do this test at the same time as the NCS. A blood test to look for GM1 antibodies, part of your body's immune system. Some people with MMN have higher levels of them. If you do have a lot of these antibodies, chances are you have the disease. You might have MNN even if you don't have a lot of the antibodies, though. How will MMN affect me? Do I need treatment? What kinds are available? How will they make me feel? Will I be able to work? What happens if the treatment doesn't help? Are there any clinical trials I can join? Are there any activities I won't be able to do? If your symptoms are very mild, you may not need any treatment. If you do need treatment, your doctor will probably prescribe a medication called intravenous immunoglobulin ( IVIg). You'll get the drug directly into one of your veins through an IV. You'll usually get it in a doctor's office, although you can learn to do it at home. If IVIg works, you should feel your muscle strength improve within 3 to 6 weeks. The effects will wear off over time, though, so you'll need to keep having the treatment. People usually have it once a month, but it may be more or less often depending on your condition. IVIg doesn't have many side effects, but it is expensive. Doctors are testing ways to give it directly through the skin like a regular shot, but this method isn't available for everyone. If IVIg doesn't work, your doctor may try a drug called cyclophosphamide ( Cytoxan), which is also used to treat certain types of cancer. This drug controls symptoms by turning down your immune system. Unlike immunoglobulin, cyclophosphamide can have bad side effects, so doctors try not to use it. If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems. Stick to your treatment plan, and talk to your doctor about any changes in how you're feeling. If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist. They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you. Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities. The disease can get worse for some people and keep them from doing daily tasks. The kind of problems you have depend on which of your muscles are affected. If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes. If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking. Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas. To learn more about multifocal motor neuropathy, visit the web sites of the Neuropathy Action Foundation, the Neuropathy Association, or the GBS- CIDP ( Guillain- Barre Syndrome- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy] Foundation International.,Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves.Those are the nerves that control your muscles.The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak.They'll also twitch and cramp.MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger.The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed.But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all.You may be able to work and stay active for many years after your diagnosis.Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease.No one knows what causes MMN.Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders.Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens.If you have MMN, you'll most likely notice the first symptoms in your hands and lower arms.Your muscles may feel weak and cramp up or twitch in a way you can't control.It may start in specific parts of the arm or hand, like the wrist or finger.Usually the symptoms are more severe on one side of your body.The disease may eventually affect your legs.MMN isn't painful, and you'll still be able to feel with your hands and arms because your sensory nerves are not affected.But your symptoms will slowly get worse as you get older.Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.They have similar symptoms, like twitching.Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable.Your doctor may tell you to see a neurologist, a specialist who treats problems with the nervous system.She will give you a physical exam.She'll also ask questions about your symptoms, like: Which muscles are giving you trouble?Is it worse on one side of your body?How long you been feeling this way?Do you have any numbness or tingling?Does anything make your symptoms better?What makes them worse?The doctor will do some nerve and blood tests to rule out other conditions that might cause your symptoms.She may do: A nerve conduction study ( NCS).This test measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves.Usually your doctor will put two sensors on the skin over one of your nerves: one to transmit a small electric shock and the other to record the activity.The doctor will repeat the test on other nerves if she thinks that more than one is involved.A needle electromyography ( EMG).Your doctor will put electrodes on your arms.The electrodes have small needles, which go into your muscle, and they're attached by wires to a machine that can measure the electrical activity in your muscles.Your doctor will ask you to slowly flex and relax your arms so the machine can record the activity.The doctor can do this test at the same time as the NCS.A blood test to look for GM1 antibodies, part of your body's immune system.Some people with MMN have higher levels of them.If you do have a lot of these antibodies, chances are you have the disease.You might have MNN even if you don't have a lot of the antibodies, though.How will MMN affect me?Do I need treatment?What kinds are available?How will they make me feel?Will I be able to work?What happens if the treatment doesn't help?Are there any clinical trials I can join?Are there any activities I won't be able to do?If your symptoms are very mild, you may not need any treatment.If you do need treatment, your doctor will probably prescribe a medication called intravenous immunoglobulin ( IVIg).You'll get the drug directly into one of your veins through an IV.You'll usually get it in a doctor's office, although you can learn to do it at home.If IVIg works, you should feel your muscle strength improve within 3 to 6 weeks.The effects will wear off over time, though, so you'll need to keep having the treatment.People usually have it once a month, but it may be more or less often depending on your condition.IVIg doesn't have many side effects, but it is expensive.Doctors are testing ways to give it directly through the skin like a regular shot, but this method isn't available for everyone.If IVIg doesn't work, your doctor may try a drug called cyclophosphamide ( Cytoxan), which is also used to treat certain types of cancer.This drug controls symptoms by turning down your immune system.Unlike immunoglobulin, cyclophosphamide can have bad side effects, so doctors try not to use it.If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems.Stick to your treatment plan, and talk to your doctor about any changes in how you're feeling.If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist.They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you.Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities.The disease can get worse for some people and keep them from doing daily tasks.The kind of problems you have depend on which of your muscles are affected.If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes.If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking.Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas.To learn more about multifocal motor neuropathy, visit the web sites of the Neuropathy Action Foundation, the Neuropathy Association, or the GBS- CIDP ( Guillain- Barre Syndrome- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy] Foundation International.

<human>: What is motor neuropathy (MMN)? <bot>: Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak. They'll also twitch and cramp. MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger. The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed. But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all. Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease.,context:Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. Those are the nerves that control your muscles. The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak. They'll also twitch and cramp. MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger. The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed. But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all. You may be able to work and stay active for many years after your diagnosis. Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease. No one knows what causes MMN. Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders. Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens. If you have MMN, you'll most likely notice the first symptoms in your hands and lower arms. Your muscles may feel weak and cramp up or twitch in a way you can't control. It may start in specific parts of the arm or hand, like the wrist or finger. Usually the symptoms are more severe on one side of your body. The disease may eventually affect your legs. MMN isn't painful, and you'll still be able to feel with your hands and arms because your sensory nerves are not affected. But your symptoms will slowly get worse as you get older. Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. They have similar symptoms, like twitching. Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable. Your doctor may tell you to see a neurologist, a specialist who treats problems with the nervous system. She will give you a physical exam. She'll also ask questions about your symptoms, like: Which muscles are giving you trouble? Is it worse on one side of your body? How long you been feeling this way? Do you have any numbness or tingling? Does anything make your symptoms better? What makes them worse? The doctor will do some nerve and blood tests to rule out other conditions that might cause your symptoms. She may do: A nerve conduction study ( NCS). This test measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves. Usually your doctor will put two sensors on the skin over one of your nerves: one to transmit a small electric shock and the other to record the activity. The doctor will repeat the test on other nerves if she thinks that more than one is involved. A needle electromyography ( EMG). Your doctor will put electrodes on your arms. The electrodes have small needles, which go into your muscle, and they're attached by wires to a machine that can measure the electrical activity in your muscles. Your doctor will ask you to slowly flex and relax your arms so the machine can record the activity. The doctor can do this test at the same time as the NCS. A blood test to look for GM1 antibodies, part of your body's immune system. Some people with MMN have higher levels of them. If you do have a lot of these antibodies, chances are you have the disease. You might have MNN even if you don't have a lot of the antibodies, though. How will MMN affect me? Do I need treatment? What kinds are available? How will they make me feel? Will I be able to work? What happens if the treatment doesn't help? Are there any clinical trials I can join? Are there any activities I won't be able to do? If your symptoms are very mild, you may not need any treatment. If you do need treatment, your doctor will probably prescribe a medication called intravenous immunoglobulin ( IVIg). You'll get the drug directly into one of your veins through an IV. You'll usually get it in a doctor's office, although you can learn to do it at home. If IVIg works, you should feel your muscle strength improve within 3 to 6 weeks. The effects will wear off over time, though, so you'll need to keep having the treatment. People usually have it once a month, but it may be more or less often depending on your condition. IVIg doesn't have many side effects, but it is expensive. Doctors are testing ways to give it directly through the skin like a regular shot, but this method isn't available for everyone. If IVIg doesn't work, your doctor may try a drug called cyclophosphamide ( Cytoxan), which is also used to treat certain types of cancer. This drug controls symptoms by turning down your immune system. Unlike immunoglobulin, cyclophosphamide can have bad side effects, so doctors try not to use it. If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems. Stick to your treatment plan, and talk to your doctor about any changes in how you're feeling. If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist. They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you. Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities. The disease can get worse for some people and keep them from doing daily tasks. The kind of problems you have depend on which of your muscles are affected. If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes. If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking. Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas. To learn more about multifocal motor neuropathy, visit the web sites of the Neuropathy Action Foundation, the Neuropathy Association, or the GBS- CIDP ( Guillain- Barre Syndrome- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy] Foundation International.,Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves.Those are the nerves that control your muscles.The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak.They'll also twitch and cramp.MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger.The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed.But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all.You may be able to work and stay active for many years after your diagnosis.Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease.No one knows what causes MMN.Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders.Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens.If you have MMN, you'll most likely notice the first symptoms in your hands and lower arms.Your muscles may feel weak and cramp up or twitch in a way you can't control.It may start in specific parts of the arm or hand, like the wrist or finger.Usually the symptoms are more severe on one side of your body.The disease may eventually affect your legs.MMN isn't painful, and you'll still be able to feel with your hands and arms because your sensory nerves are not affected.But your symptoms will slowly get worse as you get older.Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.They have similar symptoms, like twitching.Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable.Your doctor may tell you to see a neurologist, a specialist who treats problems with the nervous system.She will give you a physical exam.She'll also ask questions about your symptoms, like: Which muscles are giving you trouble?Is it worse on one side of your body?How long you been feeling this way?Do you have any numbness or tingling?Does anything make your symptoms better?What makes them worse?The doctor will do some nerve and blood tests to rule out other conditions that might cause your symptoms.She may do: A nerve conduction study ( NCS).This test measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves.Usually your doctor will put two sensors on the skin over one of your nerves: one to transmit a small electric shock and the other to record the activity.The doctor will repeat the test on other nerves if she thinks that more than one is involved.A needle electromyography ( EMG).Your doctor will put electrodes on your arms.The electrodes have small needles, which go into your muscle, and they're attached by wires to a machine that can measure the electrical activity in your muscles.Your doctor will ask you to slowly flex and relax your arms so the machine can record the activity.The doctor can do this test at the same time as the NCS.A blood test to look for GM1 antibodies, part of your body's immune system.Some people with MMN have higher levels of them.If you do have a lot of these antibodies, chances are you have the disease.You might have MNN even if you don't have a lot of the antibodies, though.How will MMN affect me?Do I need treatment?What kinds are available?How will they make me feel?Will I be able to work?What happens if the treatment doesn't help?Are there any clinical trials I can join?Are there any activities I won't be able to do?If your symptoms are very mild, you may not need any treatment.If you do need treatment, your doctor will probably prescribe a medication called intravenous immunoglobulin ( IVIg).You'll get the drug directly into one of your veins through an IV.You'll usually get it in a doctor's office, although you can learn to do it at home.If IVIg works, you should feel your muscle strength improve within 3 to 6 weeks.The effects will wear off over time, though, so you'll need to keep having the treatment.People usually have it once a month, but it may be more or less often depending on your condition.IVIg doesn't have many side effects, but it is expensive.Doctors are testing ways to give it directly through the skin like a regular shot, but this method isn't available for everyone.If IVIg doesn't work, your doctor may try a drug called cyclophosphamide ( Cytoxan), which is also used to treat certain types of cancer.This drug controls symptoms by turning down your immune system.Unlike immunoglobulin, cyclophosphamide can have bad side effects, so doctors try not to use it.If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems.Stick to your treatment plan, and talk to your doctor about any changes in how you're feeling.If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist.They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you.Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities.The disease can get worse for some people and keep them from doing daily tasks.The kind of problems you have depend on which of your muscles are affected.If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes.If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking.Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas.To learn more about multifocal motor neuropathy, visit the web sites of the Neuropathy Action Foundation, the Neuropathy Association, or the GBS- CIDP ( Guillain- Barre Syndrome- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy] Foundation International.

<human>: What causes motor neuropathy (MMN)? <bot>: Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. No one knows what causes MMN. Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders. Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens.,context:Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. Those are the nerves that control your muscles. The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak. They'll also twitch and cramp. MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger. The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed. But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all. You may be able to work and stay active for many years after your diagnosis. Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease. No one knows what causes MMN. Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders. Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens. If you have MMN, you'll most likely notice the first symptoms in your hands and lower arms. Your muscles may feel weak and cramp up or twitch in a way you can't control. It may start in specific parts of the arm or hand, like the wrist or finger. Usually the symptoms are more severe on one side of your body. The disease may eventually affect your legs. MMN isn't painful, and you'll still be able to feel with your hands and arms because your sensory nerves are not affected. But your symptoms will slowly get worse as you get older. Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. They have similar symptoms, like twitching. Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable. Your doctor may tell you to see a neurologist, a specialist who treats problems with the nervous system. She will give you a physical exam. She'll also ask questions about your symptoms, like: Which muscles are giving you trouble? Is it worse on one side of your body? How long you been feeling this way? Do you have any numbness or tingling? Does anything make your symptoms better? What makes them worse? The doctor will do some nerve and blood tests to rule out other conditions that might cause your symptoms. She may do: A nerve conduction study ( NCS). This test measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves. Usually your doctor will put two sensors on the skin over one of your nerves: one to transmit a small electric shock and the other to record the activity. The doctor will repeat the test on other nerves if she thinks that more than one is involved. A needle electromyography ( EMG). Your doctor will put electrodes on your arms. The electrodes have small needles, which go into your muscle, and they're attached by wires to a machine that can measure the electrical activity in your muscles. Your doctor will ask you to slowly flex and relax your arms so the machine can record the activity. The doctor can do this test at the same time as the NCS. A blood test to look for GM1 antibodies, part of your body's immune system. Some people with MMN have higher levels of them. If you do have a lot of these antibodies, chances are you have the disease. You might have MNN even if you don't have a lot of the antibodies, though. How will MMN affect me? Do I need treatment? What kinds are available? How will they make me feel? Will I be able to work? What happens if the treatment doesn't help? Are there any clinical trials I can join? Are there any activities I won't be able to do? If your symptoms are very mild, you may not need any treatment. If you do need treatment, your doctor will probably prescribe a medication called intravenous immunoglobulin ( IVIg). You'll get the drug directly into one of your veins through an IV. You'll usually get it in a doctor's office, although you can learn to do it at home. If IVIg works, you should feel your muscle strength improve within 3 to 6 weeks. The effects will wear off over time, though, so you'll need to keep having the treatment. People usually have it once a month, but it may be more or less often depending on your condition. IVIg doesn't have many side effects, but it is expensive. Doctors are testing ways to give it directly through the skin like a regular shot, but this method isn't available for everyone. If IVIg doesn't work, your doctor may try a drug called cyclophosphamide ( Cytoxan), which is also used to treat certain types of cancer. This drug controls symptoms by turning down your immune system. Unlike immunoglobulin, cyclophosphamide can have bad side effects, so doctors try not to use it. If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems. Stick to your treatment plan, and talk to your doctor about any changes in how you're feeling. If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist. They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you. Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities. The disease can get worse for some people and keep them from doing daily tasks. The kind of problems you have depend on which of your muscles are affected. If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes. If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking. Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas. To learn more about multifocal motor neuropathy, visit the web sites of the Neuropathy Action Foundation, the Neuropathy Association, or the GBS- CIDP ( Guillain- Barre Syndrome- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy] Foundation International.,Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves.Those are the nerves that control your muscles.The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak.They'll also twitch and cramp.MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger.The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed.But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all.You may be able to work and stay active for many years after your diagnosis.Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease.No one knows what causes MMN.Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders.Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens.If you have MMN, you'll most likely notice the first symptoms in your hands and lower arms.Your muscles may feel weak and cramp up or twitch in a way you can't control.It may start in specific parts of the arm or hand, like the wrist or finger.Usually the symptoms are more severe on one side of your body.The disease may eventually affect your legs.MMN isn't painful, and you'll still be able to feel with your hands and arms because your sensory nerves are not affected.But your symptoms will slowly get worse as you get older.Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.They have similar symptoms, like twitching.Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable.Your doctor may tell you to see a neurologist, a specialist who treats problems with the nervous system.She will give you a physical exam.She'll also ask questions about your symptoms, like: Which muscles are giving you trouble?Is it worse on one side of your body?How long you been feeling this way?Do you have any numbness or tingling?Does anything make your symptoms better?What makes them worse?The doctor will do some nerve and blood tests to rule out other conditions that might cause your symptoms.She may do: A nerve conduction study ( NCS).This test measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves.Usually your doctor will put two sensors on the skin over one of your nerves: one to transmit a small electric shock and the other to record the activity.The doctor will repeat the test on other nerves if she thinks that more than one is involved.A needle electromyography ( EMG).Your doctor will put electrodes on your arms.The electrodes have small needles, which go into your muscle, and they're attached by wires to a machine that can measure the electrical activity in your muscles.Your doctor will ask you to slowly flex and relax your arms so the machine can record the activity.The doctor can do this test at the same time as the NCS.A blood test to look for GM1 antibodies, part of your body's immune system.Some people with MMN have higher levels of them.If you do have a lot of these antibodies, chances are you have the disease.You might have MNN even if you don't have a lot of the antibodies, though.How will MMN affect me?Do I need treatment?What kinds are available?How will they make me feel?Will I be able to work?What happens if the treatment doesn't help?Are there any clinical trials I can join?Are there any activities I won't be able to do?If your symptoms are very mild, you may not need any treatment.If you do need treatment, your doctor will probably prescribe a medication called intravenous immunoglobulin ( IVIg).You'll get the drug directly into one of your veins through an IV.You'll usually get it in a doctor's office, although you can learn to do it at home.If IVIg works, you should feel your muscle strength improve within 3 to 6 weeks.The effects will wear off over time, though, so you'll need to keep having the treatment.People usually have it once a month, but it may be more or less often depending on your condition.IVIg doesn't have many side effects, but it is expensive.Doctors are testing ways to give it directly through the skin like a regular shot, but this method isn't available for everyone.If IVIg doesn't work, your doctor may try a drug called cyclophosphamide ( Cytoxan), which is also used to treat certain types of cancer.This drug controls symptoms by turning down your immune system.Unlike immunoglobulin, cyclophosphamide can have bad side effects, so doctors try not to use it.If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems.Stick to your treatment plan, and talk to your doctor about any changes in how you're feeling.If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist.They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you.Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities.The disease can get worse for some people and keep them from doing daily tasks.The kind of problems you have depend on which of your muscles are affected.If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes.If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking.Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas.To learn more about multifocal motor neuropathy, visit the web sites of the Neuropathy Action Foundation, the Neuropathy Association, or the GBS- CIDP ( Guillain- Barre Syndrome- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy] Foundation International.

<human>: What should I expect if I have multifocal motor neuropathy (MMN)? <bot>: Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems. If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist. They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you. Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities. If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes. If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking. Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas.,context:Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves. Those are the nerves that control your muscles. The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak. They'll also twitch and cramp. MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger. The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed. But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all. You may be able to work and stay active for many years after your diagnosis. Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease. No one knows what causes MMN. Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders. Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens. If you have MMN, you'll most likely notice the first symptoms in your hands and lower arms. Your muscles may feel weak and cramp up or twitch in a way you can't control. It may start in specific parts of the arm or hand, like the wrist or finger. Usually the symptoms are more severe on one side of your body. The disease may eventually affect your legs. MMN isn't painful, and you'll still be able to feel with your hands and arms because your sensory nerves are not affected. But your symptoms will slowly get worse as you get older. Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. They have similar symptoms, like twitching. Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable. Your doctor may tell you to see a neurologist, a specialist who treats problems with the nervous system. She will give you a physical exam. She'll also ask questions about your symptoms, like: Which muscles are giving you trouble? Is it worse on one side of your body? How long you been feeling this way? Do you have any numbness or tingling? Does anything make your symptoms better? What makes them worse? The doctor will do some nerve and blood tests to rule out other conditions that might cause your symptoms. She may do: A nerve conduction study ( NCS). This test measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves. Usually your doctor will put two sensors on the skin over one of your nerves: one to transmit a small electric shock and the other to record the activity. The doctor will repeat the test on other nerves if she thinks that more than one is involved. A needle electromyography ( EMG). Your doctor will put electrodes on your arms. The electrodes have small needles, which go into your muscle, and they're attached by wires to a machine that can measure the electrical activity in your muscles. Your doctor will ask you to slowly flex and relax your arms so the machine can record the activity. The doctor can do this test at the same time as the NCS. A blood test to look for GM1 antibodies, part of your body's immune system. Some people with MMN have higher levels of them. If you do have a lot of these antibodies, chances are you have the disease. You might have MNN even if you don't have a lot of the antibodies, though. How will MMN affect me? Do I need treatment? What kinds are available? How will they make me feel? Will I be able to work? What happens if the treatment doesn't help? Are there any clinical trials I can join? Are there any activities I won't be able to do? If your symptoms are very mild, you may not need any treatment. If you do need treatment, your doctor will probably prescribe a medication called intravenous immunoglobulin ( IVIg). You'll get the drug directly into one of your veins through an IV. You'll usually get it in a doctor's office, although you can learn to do it at home. If IVIg works, you should feel your muscle strength improve within 3 to 6 weeks. The effects will wear off over time, though, so you'll need to keep having the treatment. People usually have it once a month, but it may be more or less often depending on your condition. IVIg doesn't have many side effects, but it is expensive. Doctors are testing ways to give it directly through the skin like a regular shot, but this method isn't available for everyone. If IVIg doesn't work, your doctor may try a drug called cyclophosphamide ( Cytoxan), which is also used to treat certain types of cancer. This drug controls symptoms by turning down your immune system. Unlike immunoglobulin, cyclophosphamide can have bad side effects, so doctors try not to use it. If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems. Stick to your treatment plan, and talk to your doctor about any changes in how you're feeling. If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist. They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you. Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities. The disease can get worse for some people and keep them from doing daily tasks. The kind of problems you have depend on which of your muscles are affected. If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes. If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking. Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas. To learn more about multifocal motor neuropathy, visit the web sites of the Neuropathy Action Foundation, the Neuropathy Association, or the GBS- CIDP ( Guillain- Barre Syndrome- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy] Foundation International.,Multifocal motor neuropathy ( MMN) is a disease that affects your body's motor nerves.Those are the nerves that control your muscles.The condition makes it hard for them to send the electrical signals that move your body, which makes your hands and arms feel weak.They'll also twitch and cramp.MMN is not life-threatening, and, in most cases, treatments can make the muscles stronger.The disease can get worse slowly, and after a while, you may have a hard time doing daily tasks, like typing or getting dressed.But for many people, symptoms may be so mild that they don't need treatment at all.You may be able to work and stay active for many years after your diagnosis.Most people are diagnosed with MMN in their 40s and 50s, although adults from ages 20 to 80 can find out they have the disease.No one knows what causes MMN.Scientists do know it's an autoimmune disease, meaning your immune system mistakenly attacks your nerve cells as if they were invaders.Researchers are studying the disease to try to find out why it happens.If you have MMN, you'll most likely notice the first symptoms in your hands and lower arms.Your muscles may feel weak and cramp up or twitch in a way you can't control.It may start in specific parts of the arm or hand, like the wrist or finger.Usually the symptoms are more severe on one side of your body.The disease may eventually affect your legs.MMN isn't painful, and you'll still be able to feel with your hands and arms because your sensory nerves are not affected.But your symptoms will slowly get worse as you get older.Doctors often mistake MMN for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease.They have similar symptoms, like twitching.Unlike ALS, though, MMN is treatable.Your doctor may tell you to see a neurologist, a specialist who treats problems with the nervous system.She will give you a physical exam.She'll also ask questions about your symptoms, like: Which muscles are giving you trouble?Is it worse on one side of your body?How long you been feeling this way?Do you have any numbness or tingling?Does anything make your symptoms better?What makes them worse?The doctor will do some nerve and blood tests to rule out other conditions that might cause your symptoms.She may do: A nerve conduction study ( NCS).This test measures how fast electrical signals travel through your nerves.Usually your doctor will put two sensors on the skin over one of your nerves: one to transmit a small electric shock and the other to record the activity.The doctor will repeat the test on other nerves if she thinks that more than one is involved.A needle electromyography ( EMG).Your doctor will put electrodes on your arms.The electrodes have small needles, which go into your muscle, and they're attached by wires to a machine that can measure the electrical activity in your muscles.Your doctor will ask you to slowly flex and relax your arms so the machine can record the activity.The doctor can do this test at the same time as the NCS.A blood test to look for GM1 antibodies, part of your body's immune system.Some people with MMN have higher levels of them.If you do have a lot of these antibodies, chances are you have the disease.You might have MNN even if you don't have a lot of the antibodies, though.How will MMN affect me?Do I need treatment?What kinds are available?How will they make me feel?Will I be able to work?What happens if the treatment doesn't help?Are there any clinical trials I can join?Are there any activities I won't be able to do?If your symptoms are very mild, you may not need any treatment.If you do need treatment, your doctor will probably prescribe a medication called intravenous immunoglobulin ( IVIg).You'll get the drug directly into one of your veins through an IV.You'll usually get it in a doctor's office, although you can learn to do it at home.If IVIg works, you should feel your muscle strength improve within 3 to 6 weeks.The effects will wear off over time, though, so you'll need to keep having the treatment.People usually have it once a month, but it may be more or less often depending on your condition.IVIg doesn't have many side effects, but it is expensive.Doctors are testing ways to give it directly through the skin like a regular shot, but this method isn't available for everyone.If IVIg doesn't work, your doctor may try a drug called cyclophosphamide ( Cytoxan), which is also used to treat certain types of cancer.This drug controls symptoms by turning down your immune system.Unlike immunoglobulin, cyclophosphamide can have bad side effects, so doctors try not to use it.If you get treatment for MMN early, you're more likely to have few symptoms or long-term problems.Stick to your treatment plan, and talk to your doctor about any changes in how you're feeling.If you have trouble with certain activities, you may want to see an occupational or physical therapist.They can help you keep your muscles strong and show you how to do daily tasks more easily if your muscles are bothering you.Many people with MMN can continue most or at least some of their normal activities.The disease can get worse for some people and keep them from doing daily tasks.The kind of problems you have depend on which of your muscles are affected.If your hand muscles are weak, you may have trouble eating, typing, writing, or buttoning clothes.If your leg muscles are affected, you could have trouble walking.Some people with severe MMN have trouble in all these areas.To learn more about multifocal motor neuropathy, visit the web sites of the Neuropathy Action Foundation, the Neuropathy Association, or the GBS- CIDP ( Guillain- Barre Syndrome- Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy] Foundation International.

<human>: How is phototherapy used to treat palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: Who gets palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: Who can get palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: What causes palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: What can you do to manage palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: How are topical steroids used to treat palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: Is there a link beteween palmoplantar pustolisis and smoking? <bot>: The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: What things can I do to treat palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: How is palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) diagnosed? <bot>: To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: How are acitretin tablets used to treat palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: Is there a link between palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP) and psoriasis? <bot>: As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: What are the treatments for palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: What should I do if I have blisters or cracks on the palms of my hands or soles of my feet? <bot>: Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: What is palmoplantar pustulosis (PPP)? <bot>: Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.,context:Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet. It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches. There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it. Sometimes it comes back. But it could go away and never return. PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus. Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly. PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin. The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain. The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking. Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did. Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet. If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better. Any adult can get the condition. But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60. As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis. Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches. To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin. Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area. Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP. The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward. Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP. Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help. Yours may include: Topical steroids . These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments. They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain. . This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy. Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick. Acitretin tablets. Made from , these can help you manage PPP. But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone. Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it. Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it. Photo therapy or PUVA. This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time. Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop. Don't use bubble bath or shower gel. Do use a soap with moisturizer. Protect your skin. Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden. Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products. Be careful. Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin. If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages. Keep the affected areas clean. Rest your hands and feet often.,Palmoplantar pustulosis is an autoimmune disorder that causes blister-like sores to show up on the palms of your hands and the soles of your feet.It can also cause cracked skin or reddened, scaly patches.There's no cure for PPP, but it a dermatologist can treat it.Sometimes it comes back.But it could go away and never return.PPP first appears as tiny blisters with yellow pus.Eventually, these turn brown and become scaly.PPP can also cause painful cracks in your skin.The blisters and sores can make it hard for you to walk comfortably or to use your hands without pain.The cause is unclear, but there's a known link between PPP and smoking.Studies show that up to 90% of people with the skin condition smoke or once did.Nicotine in tobacco products can affect your skin cells and cause inflammation in your sweat glands, especially on your hands and feet.If you stop smoking, your symptoms may get better.Any adult can get the condition.But more women have it than men, and it's most often found in people between 40 and 60.As many as 24% of people with PPP also have psoriasis.Psoriasis happens when skin cells build up rapidly with thick, silvery scales and itchy, dry, red patches.To see if you have PPP, your doctor will check your skin.Most often, they'll take a painless scrape or swab of the area.Sometimes, they'll need to remove a small piece of skin to confirm PPP.The area will be numbed, and you may need a few stitches afterward.Your doctor will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if you have PPP.Though nothing will cure PPP, treatment can help.Yours may include: Topical steroids .These creams, used with a sterile bandage or vinyl dressing, are anti-inflammatory treatments.They can help with inflammation, swelling, tenderness, and pain..This ointment can help heal blisters and make them less itchy.Coal tar also slows the production of your skin cells and helps shed cells so your skin doesn't become thick.Acitretin tablets.Made from , these can help you manage PPP.But acitretin can have strong side effects, so it's not for everyone.Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant shouldn't use it.Men who want to have children should talk to their doctor before taking it.Photo therapy or PUVA.This treatment uses medication along with ultraviolet light to slow down skin growth and help with symptoms for long periods of time.Here are some tips to help you feel better: If you smoke, stop.Don't use bubble bath or shower gel.Do use a soap with moisturizer.Protect your skin.Wear vinyl gloves when you work with water, use household cleaners, or work in your garden.Wear 100% cotton socks, and avoid shoes made from man-made products.Be careful.Any injuries, even minor ones, can be hard on your skin.If you have an injury, use waterproof bandages.Keep the affected areas clean.Rest your hands and feet often.

<human>: Which adults should get the MMR vaccine? <bot>: The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.,context:The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection. And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps. The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious. Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air. They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Measles. This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash. It attacks the throat and lungs. Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported. While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016. Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs. But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines. Mumps. This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands. In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed. Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems. Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely. Rubella ( German measles). This disease can cause a fever and rash. It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it. Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability. If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems. The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella. The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type. Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already. They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella. Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby. Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant. Life-threatening allergic reactions. Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs. For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks. A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.,The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles).Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection.And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child.Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs.World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading.Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps.The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not.The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious.Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air.They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing.Measles.This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash.It attacks the throat and lungs.Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported.While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016.Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs.But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines.Mumps.This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands.In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed.Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems.Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely.Rubella ( German measles).This disease can cause a fever and rash.It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it.Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability.If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems.The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first.This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already.They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella.Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy.Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby.Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant.Life-threatening allergic reactions.Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine.Medical conditions.Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks.A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot.More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction.Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.

<human>: Should someone ever get more than one dose of the MMR vaccine? <bot>: The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.,context:The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection. And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps. The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious. Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air. They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Measles. This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash. It attacks the throat and lungs. Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported. While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016. Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs. But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines. Mumps. This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands. In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed. Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems. Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely. Rubella ( German measles). This disease can cause a fever and rash. It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it. Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability. If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems. The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella. The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type. Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already. They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella. Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby. Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant. Life-threatening allergic reactions. Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs. For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks. A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.,The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles).Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection.And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child.Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs.World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading.Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps.The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not.The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious.Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air.They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing.Measles.This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash.It attacks the throat and lungs.Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported.While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016.Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs.But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines.Mumps.This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands.In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed.Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems.Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely.Rubella ( German measles).This disease can cause a fever and rash.It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it.Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability.If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems.The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first.This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already.They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella.Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy.Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby.Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant.Life-threatening allergic reactions.Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine.Medical conditions.Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks.A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot.More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction.Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.

<human>: What's in the MMR vaccine? <bot>: Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.,context:The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection. And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps. The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious. Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air. They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Measles. This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash. It attacks the throat and lungs. Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported. While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016. Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs. But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines. Mumps. This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands. In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed. Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems. Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely. Rubella ( German measles). This disease can cause a fever and rash. It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it. Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability. If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems. The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella. The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type. Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already. They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella. Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby. Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant. Life-threatening allergic reactions. Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs. For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks. A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.,The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles).Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection.And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child.Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs.World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading.Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps.The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not.The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious.Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air.They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing.Measles.This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash.It attacks the throat and lungs.Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported.While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016.Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs.But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines.Mumps.This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands.In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed.Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems.Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely.Rubella ( German measles).This disease can cause a fever and rash.It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it.Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability.If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems.The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first.This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already.They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella.Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy.Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby.Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant.Life-threatening allergic reactions.Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine.Medical conditions.Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks.A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot.More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction.Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.

<human>: What side effects can the MMR vaccine cause? <bot>: A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.,context:The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection. And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps. The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious. Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air. They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Measles. This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash. It attacks the throat and lungs. Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported. While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016. Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs. But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines. Mumps. This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands. In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed. Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems. Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely. Rubella ( German measles). This disease can cause a fever and rash. It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it. Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability. If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems. The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella. The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type. Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already. They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella. Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby. Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant. Life-threatening allergic reactions. Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs. For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks. A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.,The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles).Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection.And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child.Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs.World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading.Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps.The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not.The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious.Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air.They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing.Measles.This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash.It attacks the throat and lungs.Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported.While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016.Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs.But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines.Mumps.This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands.In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed.Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems.Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely.Rubella ( German measles).This disease can cause a fever and rash.It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it.Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability.If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems.The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first.This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already.They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella.Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy.Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby.Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant.Life-threatening allergic reactions.Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine.Medical conditions.Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks.A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot.More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction.Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.

<human>: Who should avoid the MMR vaccine? <bot>: Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.,context:The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection. And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps. The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious. Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air. They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Measles. This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash. It attacks the throat and lungs. Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported. While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016. Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs. But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines. Mumps. This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands. In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed. Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems. Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely. Rubella ( German measles). This disease can cause a fever and rash. It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it. Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability. If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems. The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella. The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type. Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already. They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella. Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby. Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant. Life-threatening allergic reactions. Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs. For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks. A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.,The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles).Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection.And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child.Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs.World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading.Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps.The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not.The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious.Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air.They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing.Measles.This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash.It attacks the throat and lungs.Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported.While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016.Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs.But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines.Mumps.This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands.In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed.Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems.Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely.Rubella ( German measles).This disease can cause a fever and rash.It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it.Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability.If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems.The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first.This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already.They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella.Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy.Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby.Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant.Life-threatening allergic reactions.Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine.Medical conditions.Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks.A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot.More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction.Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.

<human>: Which diseases are covered by the MMR vaccine? <bot>: The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.,context:The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection. And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps. The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious. Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air. They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Measles. This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash. It attacks the throat and lungs. Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported. While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016. Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs. But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines. Mumps. This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands. In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed. Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems. Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely. Rubella ( German measles). This disease can cause a fever and rash. It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it. Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability. If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems. The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella. The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type. Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already. They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella. Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby. Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant. Life-threatening allergic reactions. Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs. For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks. A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.,The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles).Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection.And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child.Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs.World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading.Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps.The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not.The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious.Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air.They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing.Measles.This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash.It attacks the throat and lungs.Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported.While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016.Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs.But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines.Mumps.This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands.In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed.Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems.Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely.Rubella ( German measles).This disease can cause a fever and rash.It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it.Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability.If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems.The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first.This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already.They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella.Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy.Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby.Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant.Life-threatening allergic reactions.Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine.Medical conditions.Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks.A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot.More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction.Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.

<human>: Who does not need to get the MMR vaccine? <bot>: The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.,context:The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection. And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps. The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious. Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air. They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Measles. This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash. It attacks the throat and lungs. Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported. While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016. Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs. But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines. Mumps. This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands. In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed. Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems. Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely. Rubella ( German measles). This disease can cause a fever and rash. It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it. Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability. If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems. The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella. The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type. Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already. They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella. Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby. Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant. Life-threatening allergic reactions. Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs. For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks. A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.,The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles).Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection.And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child.Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs.World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading.Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps.The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not.The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious.Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air.They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing.Measles.This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash.It attacks the throat and lungs.Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported.While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016.Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs.But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines.Mumps.This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands.In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed.Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems.Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely.Rubella ( German measles).This disease can cause a fever and rash.It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it.Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability.If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems.The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first.This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already.They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella.Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy.Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby.Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant.Life-threatening allergic reactions.Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine.Medical conditions.Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks.A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot.More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction.Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.

<human>: Why do adults need the MMR vaccine? <bot>: And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Rubella ( German measles).,context:The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles). Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection. And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child. Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs. World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading. Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps. The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not. The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious. Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air. They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing. Measles. This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash. It attacks the throat and lungs. Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported. While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016. Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs. But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines. Mumps. This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands. In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed. Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems. Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely. Rubella ( German measles). This disease can cause a fever and rash. It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it. Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability. If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems. The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine. Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella. The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first. This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type. Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already. They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella. Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy. Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby. Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant. Life-threatening allergic reactions. Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine. Medical conditions. Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body. The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs. For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks. A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot. More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction. Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.,The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps, and rubella ( German measles).Many children in the U. S. are immunized as infants and toddlers, but that doesn't guarantee lifetime protection.And not everyone gets vaccinated as a child.Many adults move to the U. S. from countries without immunization programs.World travel increases the chances of these diseases spreading.Generally, adults born before 1957 are considered immune to measles and mumps.The CDC advises most adults born in 1957 or afterward who can't show that they've had all 3 diseases get an MMR vaccine, whether they had one as a child or not.The three diseases covered by the MMR vaccine -- measles, mumps, and rubella -- are highly contagious.Viruses cause all three of these illnesses, and they spread through the air.They can pass from person to person through coughing, sneezing, or just breathing.Measles.This disease causes a fever, runny nose, and rash.It attacks the throat and lungs.Vaccinations have helped stop the spread of the disease in the U. S., but there are still cases reported.While immunization rates are on the rise around the world, the World Health Organization ( WHO) estimates there were 89,780 deaths from measles in 2016.Measles outbreaks often happen in countries without strong childhood immunization programs.But outbreaks have also happened in Europe, South Africa, and the Philippines.Mumps.This disease causes fever, fatigue, head and muscle aches, and swelling of the salivary glands.In men, it can cause the testicles to become inflamed.Mumps can lead to a loss of hearing, infection of the covering around the brain and spinal cord, and other serious problems.Mumps outbreaks do still happen in the U. S., but rarely.Rubella ( German measles).This disease can cause a fever and rash.It's especially dangerous if a pregnant mother has it.Rubella can lead to serious birth defects, including heart problems, deafness, liver and spleen damage, and intellectual disability.If a woman has rubella while pregnant, there's at least a 20% chance her baby will have problems.The CDC says most adults born in 1957 or later should get at least one dose of the MMR vaccine.Because of the risk of birth defects, all women of childbearing age should have the MMR vaccine unless they're pregnant or have proof of immunity, or proof of already being vaccinated for rubella.The CDC says adults at greater risk of measles or mumps should get two doses of MMR vaccine, the second one 4 weeks after the first.This includes adults who: Have been exposed to measles or mumps or live in an area where an outbreak has happened Are students in colleges or trade schools Travel internationally Work in health care For measles, the CDC advises a second dose for adults who: Were previously given a vaccine made with "killed" measles (instead of the live-type of vaccine used today) Were given an MMR vaccine between 1963 and 1967, but there's no record of what type.Adults don't need the MMR vaccine if: They have proof of vaccination already.They have proof that they've already had measles or mumps and rubella.Adults who should not have the MMR vaccine include people in these groups: Pregnancy.Pregnant women should not get the MMR vaccine due to risks to the baby.Women who get the MMR vaccine should wait 4 weeks before getting pregnant.Life-threatening allergic reactions.Adults who have had a life-threatening allergic reaction to gelatin, a previous MMR vaccine, or a medication called neomycin should not get the vaccine.Medical conditions.Adults should talk with their doctor if they: Have HIV Have any other immune system disorder Have cancer or are being given cancer drugs or X-rays Are taking steroids or other drugs that affect the immune system Have had a low platelet count (a blood disorder) Have had a blood transfusion or took blood products Have a moderate or severe illness As with many vaccines, the MMR vaccine works with the immune system to build up protection by putting a small amount of the virus into the body.The safest and most effective ingredients in the MMR vaccine used today include "attenuated" forms of each virus, which means they're live forms of the virus that have been made weak in medical labs.For most adults, the benefits of the MMR vaccine outweigh the risks.A few people develop a short-term mild rash, fever, swollen glands, or pain and stiffness in the joints after getting the shot.More serious, and rare, side effects include a temporary low platelet count or serious allergic reaction.Call your doctor if you have trouble breathing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, hives, weakness, or other problems after vaccination.

<human>: Do spermicides help prevent HIV and other STDs? <bot>: This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs. If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor. Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs.,context:Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg. The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9). You can get it as a foam, jelly, tablet, cream, suppository, or dissolvable film. You can use spermicide by itself or combine it with other methods. Some condoms have spermicide. It varies with the type you have. Follow the directions on the package. Most types tell you to: Insert the spermicide deep into your vagina Wait 10-15 minutes before you have sex Don't wait any longer than 30-60 minutes to have sex Leave it in for at least 6 hours after sex Although you can use spermicide alone, it works better when you combine it with a condom or diaphragm. Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy. No. Also, spermicide may irritate your genitals. This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs. If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor. Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs. Spermicide will help prevent pregnancy, especially if a condom breaks or spills. You can get products with spermicide at most drugstores and supermarkets. You don't need a prescription Follow the package instructions carefully. It varies by type, but it ranges from 50 cents to $1.50 per use or about $8 per package.,Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg.The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9).You can get it as a foam, jelly, tablet, cream, suppository, or dissolvable film.You can use spermicide by itself or combine it with other methods.Some condoms have spermicide.It varies with the type you have.Follow the directions on the package.Most types tell you to: Insert the spermicide deep into your vagina Wait 10-15 minutes before you have sex Don't wait any longer than 30-60 minutes to have sex Leave it in for at least 6 hours after sex Although you can use spermicide alone, it works better when you combine it with a condom or diaphragm.Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy.No.Also, spermicide may irritate your genitals.This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs.If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor.Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs.Spermicide will help prevent pregnancy, especially if a condom breaks or spills.You can get products with spermicide at most drugstores and supermarkets.You don't need a prescription Follow the package instructions carefully.It varies by type, but it ranges from 50 cents to $1.50 per use or about $8 per package.

<human>: What are spermicides? <bot>: Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg. The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9).,context:Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg. The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9). You can get it as a foam, jelly, tablet, cream, suppository, or dissolvable film. You can use spermicide by itself or combine it with other methods. Some condoms have spermicide. It varies with the type you have. Follow the directions on the package. Most types tell you to: Insert the spermicide deep into your vagina Wait 10-15 minutes before you have sex Don't wait any longer than 30-60 minutes to have sex Leave it in for at least 6 hours after sex Although you can use spermicide alone, it works better when you combine it with a condom or diaphragm. Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy. No. Also, spermicide may irritate your genitals. This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs. If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor. Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs. Spermicide will help prevent pregnancy, especially if a condom breaks or spills. You can get products with spermicide at most drugstores and supermarkets. You don't need a prescription Follow the package instructions carefully. It varies by type, but it ranges from 50 cents to $1.50 per use or about $8 per package.,Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg.The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9).You can get it as a foam, jelly, tablet, cream, suppository, or dissolvable film.You can use spermicide by itself or combine it with other methods.Some condoms have spermicide.It varies with the type you have.Follow the directions on the package.Most types tell you to: Insert the spermicide deep into your vagina Wait 10-15 minutes before you have sex Don't wait any longer than 30-60 minutes to have sex Leave it in for at least 6 hours after sex Although you can use spermicide alone, it works better when you combine it with a condom or diaphragm.Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy.No.Also, spermicide may irritate your genitals.This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs.If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor.Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs.Spermicide will help prevent pregnancy, especially if a condom breaks or spills.You can get products with spermicide at most drugstores and supermarkets.You don't need a prescription Follow the package instructions carefully.It varies by type, but it ranges from 50 cents to $1.50 per use or about $8 per package.

<human>: How effective are spermicides? <bot>: Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy.,context:Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg. The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9). You can get it as a foam, jelly, tablet, cream, suppository, or dissolvable film. You can use spermicide by itself or combine it with other methods. Some condoms have spermicide. It varies with the type you have. Follow the directions on the package. Most types tell you to: Insert the spermicide deep into your vagina Wait 10-15 minutes before you have sex Don't wait any longer than 30-60 minutes to have sex Leave it in for at least 6 hours after sex Although you can use spermicide alone, it works better when you combine it with a condom or diaphragm. Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy. No. Also, spermicide may irritate your genitals. This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs. If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor. Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs. Spermicide will help prevent pregnancy, especially if a condom breaks or spills. You can get products with spermicide at most drugstores and supermarkets. You don't need a prescription Follow the package instructions carefully. It varies by type, but it ranges from 50 cents to $1.50 per use or about $8 per package.,Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg.The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9).You can get it as a foam, jelly, tablet, cream, suppository, or dissolvable film.You can use spermicide by itself or combine it with other methods.Some condoms have spermicide.It varies with the type you have.Follow the directions on the package.Most types tell you to: Insert the spermicide deep into your vagina Wait 10-15 minutes before you have sex Don't wait any longer than 30-60 minutes to have sex Leave it in for at least 6 hours after sex Although you can use spermicide alone, it works better when you combine it with a condom or diaphragm.Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy.No.Also, spermicide may irritate your genitals.This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs.If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor.Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs.Spermicide will help prevent pregnancy, especially if a condom breaks or spills.You can get products with spermicide at most drugstores and supermarkets.You don't need a prescription Follow the package instructions carefully.It varies by type, but it ranges from 50 cents to $1.50 per use or about $8 per package.

<human>: What is birth control? <bot>: Some condoms have spermicide. Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs.,context:Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg. The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9). You can get it as a foam, jelly, tablet, cream, suppository, or dissolvable film. You can use spermicide by itself or combine it with other methods. Some condoms have spermicide. It varies with the type you have. Follow the directions on the package. Most types tell you to: Insert the spermicide deep into your vagina Wait 10-15 minutes before you have sex Don't wait any longer than 30-60 minutes to have sex Leave it in for at least 6 hours after sex Although you can use spermicide alone, it works better when you combine it with a condom or diaphragm. Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy. No. Also, spermicide may irritate your genitals. This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs. If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor. Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs. Spermicide will help prevent pregnancy, especially if a condom breaks or spills. You can get products with spermicide at most drugstores and supermarkets. You don't need a prescription Follow the package instructions carefully. It varies by type, but it ranges from 50 cents to $1.50 per use or about $8 per package.,Spermicide is a chemical that prevents pregnancy by killing sperm so they can't fertilize an egg.The only spermicide available in the U. S. is nonoxynol-9 ( N-9).You can get it as a foam, jelly, tablet, cream, suppository, or dissolvable film.You can use spermicide by itself or combine it with other methods.Some condoms have spermicide.It varies with the type you have.Follow the directions on the package.Most types tell you to: Insert the spermicide deep into your vagina Wait 10-15 minutes before you have sex Don't wait any longer than 30-60 minutes to have sex Leave it in for at least 6 hours after sex Although you can use spermicide alone, it works better when you combine it with a condom or diaphragm.Spermicide used alone is about 70% to 80% effective, but when used together and properly, spermicide and condoms are about 97% effective in preventing pregnancy.No.Also, spermicide may irritate your genitals.This can make it easier for you to get HIV and other STDs.If your penis or vagina gets irritated, stop using the spermicide and see your doctor.Other than not having sex, condoms are the best way to prevent STDs.Spermicide will help prevent pregnancy, especially if a condom breaks or spills.You can get products with spermicide at most drugstores and supermarkets.You don't need a prescription Follow the package instructions carefully.It varies by type, but it ranges from 50 cents to $1.50 per use or about $8 per package.

<human>: What causes skier's thumb? <bot>: A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament. A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force. However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity. Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel.,context:Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together. In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament. Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries. In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired. The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb. People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation. Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb. Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents. A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament. A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force. However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity. Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel. Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb. These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible. Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic. If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral. The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail. The doctor will ask you how the injury happened. Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place? What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury? How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion? The doctor will also ask about your past medical history. Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before? Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist? Are you allergic to any pain medications? Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand? Are you right-handed or left-handed? What is your primary occupation? The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb. Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling. Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible. The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb. This will help lessen your pain. Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action. Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them. The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days. If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined. At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed. After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals. You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion. If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast. Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off. Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast. Your thumb will be reexamined. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it. The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury. Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip. You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers. This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole. Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast. Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures. With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint. Media file 1: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole. Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury. Media file 2: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand. Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury. gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury,Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together.In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament.Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries.In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired.The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb.People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation.Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb.Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents.A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament.A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force.However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity.Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel.Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb.These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible.Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked.If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department.There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident.An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic.If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral.The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail.The doctor will ask you how the injury happened.Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place?What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury?How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin?Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion?The doctor will also ask about your past medical history.Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before?Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist?Are you allergic to any pain medications?Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand?Are you right-handed or left-handed?What is your primary occupation?The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb.Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling.Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day.Do not apply ice directly to your skin.Continue to use ice until the pain stops.( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.)Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible.The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb.This will help lessen your pain.Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them.The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days.If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step.The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined.At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed.Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair.If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed.After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals.You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion.If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast.Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off.Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast.Your thumb will be reexamined.The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon.Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls.Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip.You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers.This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole.Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast.Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures.With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint.Media file 1: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole.Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury.Media file 2: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand.Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury.gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury

<human>: What is the surgery for skier's thumb? <bot>: If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed. After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals. You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion. If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast. Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off.,context:Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together. In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament. Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries. In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired. The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb. People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation. Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb. Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents. A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament. A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force. However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity. Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel. Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb. These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible. Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic. If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral. The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail. The doctor will ask you how the injury happened. Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place? What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury? How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion? The doctor will also ask about your past medical history. Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before? Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist? Are you allergic to any pain medications? Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand? Are you right-handed or left-handed? What is your primary occupation? The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb. Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling. Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible. The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb. This will help lessen your pain. Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action. Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them. The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days. If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined. At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed. After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals. You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion. If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast. Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off. Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast. Your thumb will be reexamined. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it. The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury. Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip. You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers. This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole. Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast. Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures. With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint. Media file 1: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole. Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury. Media file 2: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand. Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury. gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury,Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together.In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament.Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries.In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired.The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb.People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation.Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb.Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents.A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament.A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force.However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity.Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel.Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb.These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible.Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked.If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department.There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident.An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic.If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral.The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail.The doctor will ask you how the injury happened.Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place?What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury?How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin?Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion?The doctor will also ask about your past medical history.Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before?Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist?Are you allergic to any pain medications?Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand?Are you right-handed or left-handed?What is your primary occupation?The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb.Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling.Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day.Do not apply ice directly to your skin.Continue to use ice until the pain stops.( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.)Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible.The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb.This will help lessen your pain.Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them.The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days.If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step.The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined.At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed.Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair.If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed.After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals.You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion.If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast.Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off.Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast.Your thumb will be reexamined.The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon.Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls.Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip.You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers.This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole.Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast.Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures.With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint.Media file 1: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole.Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury.Media file 2: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand.Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury.gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury

<human>: What are symptoms of skier's thumb? <bot>: These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible.,context:Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together. In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament. Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries. In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired. The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb. People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation. Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb. Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents. A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament. A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force. However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity. Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel. Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb. These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible. Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic. If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral. The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail. The doctor will ask you how the injury happened. Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place? What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury? How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion? The doctor will also ask about your past medical history. Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before? Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist? Are you allergic to any pain medications? Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand? Are you right-handed or left-handed? What is your primary occupation? The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb. Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling. Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible. The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb. This will help lessen your pain. Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action. Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them. The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days. If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined. At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed. After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals. You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion. If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast. Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off. Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast. Your thumb will be reexamined. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it. The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury. Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip. You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers. This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole. Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast. Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures. With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint. Media file 1: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole. Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury. Media file 2: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand. Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury. gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury,Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together.In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament.Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries.In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired.The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb.People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation.Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb.Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents.A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament.A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force.However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity.Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel.Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb.These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible.Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked.If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department.There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident.An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic.If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral.The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail.The doctor will ask you how the injury happened.Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place?What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury?How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin?Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion?The doctor will also ask about your past medical history.Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before?Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist?Are you allergic to any pain medications?Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand?Are you right-handed or left-handed?What is your primary occupation?The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb.Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling.Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day.Do not apply ice directly to your skin.Continue to use ice until the pain stops.( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.)Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible.The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb.This will help lessen your pain.Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them.The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days.If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step.The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined.At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed.Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair.If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed.After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals.You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion.If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast.Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off.Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast.Your thumb will be reexamined.The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon.Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls.Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip.You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers.This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole.Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast.Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures.With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint.Media file 1: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole.Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury.Media file 2: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand.Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury.gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury

<human>: Should I see a doctor about skier's thumb? <bot>: Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.),context:Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together. In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament. Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries. In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired. The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb. People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation. Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb. Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents. A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament. A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force. However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity. Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel. Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb. These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible. Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic. If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral. The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail. The doctor will ask you how the injury happened. Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place? What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury? How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion? The doctor will also ask about your past medical history. Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before? Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist? Are you allergic to any pain medications? Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand? Are you right-handed or left-handed? What is your primary occupation? The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb. Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling. Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible. The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb. This will help lessen your pain. Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action. Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them. The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days. If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined. At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed. After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals. You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion. If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast. Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off. Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast. Your thumb will be reexamined. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it. The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury. Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip. You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers. This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole. Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast. Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures. With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint. Media file 1: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole. Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury. Media file 2: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand. Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury. gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury,Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together.In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament.Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries.In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired.The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb.People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation.Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb.Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents.A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament.A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force.However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity.Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel.Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb.These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible.Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked.If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department.There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident.An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic.If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral.The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail.The doctor will ask you how the injury happened.Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place?What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury?How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin?Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion?The doctor will also ask about your past medical history.Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before?Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist?Are you allergic to any pain medications?Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand?Are you right-handed or left-handed?What is your primary occupation?The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb.Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling.Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day.Do not apply ice directly to your skin.Continue to use ice until the pain stops.( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.)Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible.The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb.This will help lessen your pain.Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them.The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days.If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step.The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined.At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed.Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair.If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed.After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals.You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion.If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast.Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off.Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast.Your thumb will be reexamined.The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon.Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls.Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip.You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers.This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole.Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast.Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures.With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint.Media file 1: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole.Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury.Media file 2: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand.Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury.gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury

<human>: Are there home treatments for skier's thumb? <bot>: How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.,context:Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together. In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament. Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries. In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired. The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb. People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation. Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb. Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents. A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament. A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force. However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity. Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel. Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb. These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible. Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic. If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral. The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail. The doctor will ask you how the injury happened. Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place? What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury? How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion? The doctor will also ask about your past medical history. Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before? Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist? Are you allergic to any pain medications? Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand? Are you right-handed or left-handed? What is your primary occupation? The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb. Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling. Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible. The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb. This will help lessen your pain. Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action. Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them. The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days. If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined. At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed. After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals. You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion. If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast. Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off. Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast. Your thumb will be reexamined. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it. The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury. Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip. You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers. This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole. Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast. Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures. With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint. Media file 1: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole. Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury. Media file 2: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand. Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury. gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury,Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together.In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament.Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries.In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired.The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb.People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation.Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb.Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents.A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament.A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force.However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity.Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel.Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb.These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible.Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked.If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department.There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident.An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic.If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral.The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail.The doctor will ask you how the injury happened.Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place?What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury?How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin?Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion?The doctor will also ask about your past medical history.Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before?Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist?Are you allergic to any pain medications?Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand?Are you right-handed or left-handed?What is your primary occupation?The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb.Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling.Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day.Do not apply ice directly to your skin.Continue to use ice until the pain stops.( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.)Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible.The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb.This will help lessen your pain.Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them.The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days.If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step.The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined.At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed.Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair.If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed.After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals.You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion.If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast.Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off.Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast.Your thumb will be reexamined.The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon.Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls.Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip.You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers.This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole.Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast.Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures.With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint.Media file 1: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole.Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury.Media file 2: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand.Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury.gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury

<human>: How can I prevent getting skier's thumb? <bot>: If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.,context:Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together. In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament. Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries. In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired. The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb. People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation. Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb. Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents. A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament. A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force. However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity. Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel. Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb. These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible. Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic. If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral. The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail. The doctor will ask you how the injury happened. Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place? What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury? How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion? The doctor will also ask about your past medical history. Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before? Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist? Are you allergic to any pain medications? Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand? Are you right-handed or left-handed? What is your primary occupation? The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb. Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling. Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible. The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb. This will help lessen your pain. Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action. Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them. The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days. If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined. At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed. After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals. You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion. If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast. Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off. Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast. Your thumb will be reexamined. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it. The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury. Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip. You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers. This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole. Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast. Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures. With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint. Media file 1: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole. Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury. Media file 2: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand. Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury. gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury,Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together.In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament.Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries.In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired.The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb.People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation.Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb.Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents.A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament.A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force.However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity.Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel.Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb.These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible.Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked.If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department.There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident.An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic.If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral.The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail.The doctor will ask you how the injury happened.Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place?What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury?How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin?Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion?The doctor will also ask about your past medical history.Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before?Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist?Are you allergic to any pain medications?Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand?Are you right-handed or left-handed?What is your primary occupation?The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb.Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling.Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day.Do not apply ice directly to your skin.Continue to use ice until the pain stops.( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.)Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible.The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb.This will help lessen your pain.Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them.The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days.If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step.The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined.At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed.Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair.If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed.After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals.You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion.If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast.Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off.Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast.Your thumb will be reexamined.The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon.Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls.Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip.You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers.This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole.Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast.Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures.With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint.Media file 1: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole.Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury.Media file 2: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand.Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury.gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury

<human>: How is skier's thumb treated? <bot>: If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.,context:Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together. In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament. Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries. In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired. The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb. People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation. Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb. Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents. A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament. A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force. However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity. Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel. Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb. These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible. Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked. If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department. There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident. An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic. If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral. The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail. The doctor will ask you how the injury happened. Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place? What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury? How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin? Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion? The doctor will also ask about your past medical history. Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before? Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist? Are you allergic to any pain medications? Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand? Are you right-handed or left-handed? What is your primary occupation? The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb. Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling. Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Continue to use ice until the pain stops. ( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.) Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible. The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb. This will help lessen your pain. Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action. Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them. The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days. If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step. The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined. At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed. Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair. If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed. After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals. You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion. If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast. Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off. Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast. Your thumb will be reexamined. The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it. The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon. Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls. Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury. Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip. You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers. This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole. Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast. Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures. With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint. Media file 1: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole. Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury. Media file 2: Skier's thumb. Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand. Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury. gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury,Skier's thumb describes an injury of the soft tissue that connects the bones of your thumb together.In medical terms, this soft tissue is called a ligament.Skier's thumb accounts for a significant number of skiing injuries.In severe cases, with complete tearing of the ligament, this injury must be surgically repaired.The ultimate stability of the ligament is important because of its contribution to the grasping function of the thumb.People with skier's thumb may be able to return to work and even skiing in a short period with proper rehabilitation.Skiing accidents are the most common causes of damage to the ligament that cause the injury known as skier's thumb.Injuries of this ligament make up 8-10% of all skiing accidents.A fall on an outstretched hand with a ski pole in the palm of your hand creates the force necessary to stress the thumb and stretch or tear the ligament.A simple fall on an outstretched hand with an empty palm usually does not create this same force.However, your thumb can also be injured if it jams into packed snow at high velocity.Another less common cause of this injury is an automobile crash when the driver has the thumb alone draped over the steering wheel.Any injury in which the thumb is abnormally bent backward or to the side can cause skier's thumb.These symptoms may occur minutes to hours after the fall that created the injury: Pain at the base of the thumb in the web space between thumb and index finger Swelling of your thumb Inability to grasp or weakness of grasp between your thumb and index finger Tenderness to the touch along the index finger side of your thumb Blue or black discoloration of the skin over the thumb Thumb pain that worsens with movement in any or all directions Pain in the wrist (which may be referred pain from your thumb) If you experience any of the symptoms of skier's thumb following an injury, call your doctor as soon as possible.Follow your doctor's instructions about special home care considerations and find out when your thumb can be checked.If you determine that skier's thumb is possible, considering the way your accident happened, then you should be taken by car to a hospital's emergency department.There is no need to go by ambulance unless that is your only means of transportation or there is another more serious injury associated with the accident.An alternative to the emergency department would be an office visit to an orthopedic surgeon (bone specialist) or hand surgeon's clinic.If an orthopedic surgeon is available to see you on the day of your injury, it is more efficient to go see the surgeon directly instead of from the emergency department's referral.The physician will first make sure you have no other limb-threatening injuries and then evaluate your thumb in more detail.The doctor will ask you how the injury happened.Be prepared to answer these questions: At what time did your injury take place?What was the exact positioning of your hand and thumb during the injury?How soon after the injury did the pain and swelling begin?Did it feel as if your thumb was stressed beyond its normal range of motion?The doctor will also ask about your past medical history.Be prepared to answer these questions: Have you ever suffered from a similar injury before?Have you ever had any type of surgery in your hand or wrist?Are you allergic to any pain medications?Have you ever fractured any bones in your wrist or hand?Are you right-handed or left-handed?What is your primary occupation?The doctor will then perform a physical examination and include the following tests: A comparison of the movement of the injured thumb with that of the uninjured thumb looking for looseness of the ligament An assessment of how well the major nerves in your hand function A check for fractures, including an X-ray of your hand to make sure no bones are broken An examination of the rest of your arm for any associated injuries to your wrist, forearm, elbow, and shoulder If you suspect that you may have a skier's thumb, then home care should address the pain and swelling of your thumb.Take the following steps to reduce your pain and swelling.Apply ice to the thumb for 35 minutes at a time, up to 4 times per day.Do not apply ice directly to your skin.Continue to use ice until the pain stops.( You should see your doctor as soon as possible after the injury and then follow a doctor's directions for ice therapy.)Avoid movement of the thumb as much as possible.The loose application of an ACE wrap or commercially available wrist brace in the neutral position will help immobilize the thumb.This will help lessen your pain.Take acetaminophen for pain relief or ibuprofen for anti-inflammatory action.Avoid both of these over-the-counter drugs if you have stomach problems and cannot tolerate them.The most important aspect of home care is to ensure that the injury is fully evaluated by an emergency doctor, orthopedic surgeon, or your primary care physician in the first few days.If the doctor determines that you have a skier's thumb, then referral to an orthopedic or hand surgeon will be the next step.The orthopedic surgeon will determine when your thumb needs to be reexamined.At that time, your options for surgical versus nonsurgical therapy will be discussed.Typically, partial injuries to the ligament are immobilized for several weeks, while complete rupture of the ligament usually requires surgical repair.If you elect to have surgery, then operative exploration and ligament repair using something called a "suture anchor" will most likely be performed.After the operation, your hand may be placed in a lightweight cast to hold your thumb still while your ligament heals.You will have to remain in this cast for some time based on your orthopedic surgeon's preferences, although some surgeons now advocate early gentle motion.If you have an associated fracture with your skier's thumb, then it may be treated with a modified cast.Surgical stabilization of the fracture might be needed if a piece of bone has broken off.Your orthopedic surgeon will see you after surgical repair or after a period of immobilization in a cast.Your thumb will be reexamined.The doctor will decide if you need to continue to immobilize your thumb or if you need physical therapy to regain movement in it.The remainder of your rehabilitation and the management of any chronic problems that may arise from your injury will be addressed by your orthopedic or hand surgeon.Skiers should be taught to consciously discard the ski pole during all falls.Falling onto an outstretched hand while skiing without the ski pole in hand should minimize the chance of injury.Skiers should also be encouraged to use poles with finger-groove grips without any restraining devices such as a wrist strap or closed grip.You can prevent skier's thumb during a car accident by keeping your thumbs on the outside of the steering wheel along with your fingers.This new routine will require a conscious effort because most drivers are taught to grip the steering wheel in a fashion similar to a ski pole.Acute partial rupture of the ulnar collateral ligament can be treated effectively with 4 weeks of immobilization in a special cast.Healing with full recovery is the rule with partial ruptures.With a total rupture, either immobilization or surgical repair can result in partial or full recovery with the potential for long-term complications, including chronic pain and instability of the joint.Media file 1: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand after discarding ski pole.Skier's thumb is unlikely with this mechanism of injury.Media file 2: Skier's thumb.Fall on outstretched hand with ski pole in palm of hand.Skier's thumb is possible with this mechanism of injury.gamekeeper's thumb, gamekeeper thumb, skier's thumb, skier thumb, thumb sprain, sprained thumb, thumb pain, hand injury

<human>: How can human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) affect tuberculosis? <bot>: When your immune system is weak, TB germs can multiply and cause symptoms. Someone infected with both HIV and TB is at least 10 times more likely to develop active TB, especially when their CD4 count is under 200. Regardless of your CD4 count, having both infections also means you have AIDS, the advanced stage of HIV. Worldwide, TB is a leading cause of death for people with HIV.,context:Most people think of tuberculosis, often called TB, as a serious disease that affects the lungs. That's true, but it can also affect other parts of your body, including your brain and spine. It's not a problem for most people with healthy immune systems: You can have TB germs in your body and not get sick yourself or spread the disease to others. But it's different for someone who is HIV-positive. When your immune system is weak, TB germs can multiply and cause symptoms. Someone infected with both HIV and TB is at least 10 times more likely to develop active TB, especially when their CD4 count is under 200. Regardless of your CD4 count, having both infections also means you have AIDS, the advanced stage of HIV. Worldwide, TB is a leading cause of death for people with HIV. Taking steps to prevent this opportunistic infection and getting tested and treated for it are an important part of living with HIV. It not only helps control tuberculosis, but it helps prevent greater damage to your immune system. The bacteria that cause tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, travel through the air when you cough or sneeze. But you're not likely to get TB through a single contact. And you can't get it from sharing dishes or utensils, or by touching someone who has it. Your chances of getting TB are much greater if you're around an infected person often, like someone you work with or live with. Tuberculosis spreads more easily in crowded places with little fresh air, too. Talk to your doctor about whether it's safe for you to spend a lot of time somewhere like a hospital, clinic, doctor's office, nursing home, jail or prison, or a shelter for homeless people. You're also more likely to get TB if you: Are pregnant Are younger than 5 years old or older than 65 Drink alcohol or inject drugs Don't eat well Active tuberculosis makes you feel sick with these symptoms: A bad cough that lasts for more than 2 weeks Coughing up mucus or blood Chest pain You may also have: Weakness or fatigue Weight loss Not much of an appetite Fever or chills Night sweats As soon as you know you have HIV, you should get a tuberculin skin test ( TST). You'll get a small amount of liquid with a TB protein injected under the skin on your arm. After 2 or 3 days, a health care provider checks the injection site; swelling and redness are signs of tuberculosis infection. Or you could get a blood test called interferon-gamma release assay ( IGRA). A positive TST or IGRA doesn't necessarily mean that you have TB disease (sometimes referred to as “active” TB). This is because the TB germ can remain silent in your body (sometimes called “latent” TB). Other tests can help confirm whether you have active TB disease. These are important to get if you have symptoms that suggest TB (even if your TST or IGRA was negative) or if an earlier TST or IGRA was negative but is now positive: A chest X-ray, which takes a picture of your lungs A TB smear test, where your doctor takes a sample of the phlegm you've coughed up and looks at it under a microscope for signs of bacteria A sputum culture, which lets the bacteria in the mucus grow so a technician can check for the one that causes TB A molecular test, which can determine if you have TB DNA in your sputum After a negative TST, you should get tested again periodically, if you live or work in a setting where you might get exposed to someone with TB. Babies born to HIV-positive moms should get tested at 9-12 months of age. Whether or not your TB is active, you will need to be treated right away. There are drugs that prevent tuberculosis infection from becoming the disease. Your doctor will need to confirm that you don't have active TB first. Then you'll take isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid), for 9 months with pyridoxine, a form of vitamin B6, to prevent the side effect of nerve damage in your hands and feet. Or, you may be able to take rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin)for 4 months, or a combination of INH and rifapentine ( RPT) weekly for 3 months. To treat active tuberculosis, you'll take a combination of drugs for several months that commonly include: Ethambutol, or EMB ( Myambutol) Isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid) Pyrazinamide, or PZA ( Tebrazid) Rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin) Drugs for HIV and for TB don't always work well together. Your doctor will decide which combination of medications will be best for you. If you have active TB, your TB must be treated immediately. If you are already on ART, your doctor may have to adjust your HIV drugs. If you are not already on ART, your doctor will decide how soon you should start ART. If you have active TB, at you'll likely need to stay away from others so you don't spread TB. Then, after about 3 weeks of treatment, you won't be able to infect anyone. Your doctor can confirm this with three negative TB smear tests. Keep taking your TB medications the way your doctor told you to, and finish them. If you stop or don't take them as often as your doctor says you should, the germs can become resistant, you could get sick again, and the drugs may stop working.,Most people think of tuberculosis, often called TB, as a serious disease that affects the lungs.That's true, but it can also affect other parts of your body, including your brain and spine.It's not a problem for most people with healthy immune systems: You can have TB germs in your body and not get sick yourself or spread the disease to others.But it's different for someone who is HIV-positive.When your immune system is weak, TB germs can multiply and cause symptoms.Someone infected with both HIV and TB is at least 10 times more likely to develop active TB, especially when their CD4 count is under 200.Regardless of your CD4 count, having both infections also means you have AIDS, the advanced stage of HIV.Worldwide, TB is a leading cause of death for people with HIV.Taking steps to prevent this opportunistic infection and getting tested and treated for it are an important part of living with HIV.It not only helps control tuberculosis, but it helps prevent greater damage to your immune system.The bacteria that cause tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, travel through the air when you cough or sneeze.But you're not likely to get TB through a single contact.And you can't get it from sharing dishes or utensils, or by touching someone who has it.Your chances of getting TB are much greater if you're around an infected person often, like someone you work with or live with.Tuberculosis spreads more easily in crowded places with little fresh air, too.Talk to your doctor about whether it's safe for you to spend a lot of time somewhere like a hospital, clinic, doctor's office, nursing home, jail or prison, or a shelter for homeless people.You're also more likely to get TB if you: Are pregnant Are younger than 5 years old or older than 65 Drink alcohol or inject drugs Don't eat well Active tuberculosis makes you feel sick with these symptoms: A bad cough that lasts for more than 2 weeks Coughing up mucus or blood Chest pain You may also have: Weakness or fatigue Weight loss Not much of an appetite Fever or chills Night sweats As soon as you know you have HIV, you should get a tuberculin skin test ( TST).You'll get a small amount of liquid with a TB protein injected under the skin on your arm.After 2 or 3 days, a health care provider checks the injection site; swelling and redness are signs of tuberculosis infection.Or you could get a blood test called interferon-gamma release assay ( IGRA).A positive TST or IGRA doesn't necessarily mean that you have TB disease (sometimes referred to as “active” TB).This is because the TB germ can remain silent in your body (sometimes called “latent” TB).Other tests can help confirm whether you have active TB disease.These are important to get if you have symptoms that suggest TB (even if your TST or IGRA was negative) or if an earlier TST or IGRA was negative but is now positive: A chest X-ray, which takes a picture of your lungs A TB smear test, where your doctor takes a sample of the phlegm you've coughed up and looks at it under a microscope for signs of bacteria A sputum culture, which lets the bacteria in the mucus grow so a technician can check for the one that causes TB A molecular test, which can determine if you have TB DNA in your sputum After a negative TST, you should get tested again periodically, if you live or work in a setting where you might get exposed to someone with TB.Babies born to HIV-positive moms should get tested at 9-12 months of age.Whether or not your TB is active, you will need to be treated right away.There are drugs that prevent tuberculosis infection from becoming the disease.Your doctor will need to confirm that you don't have active TB first.Then you'll take isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid), for 9 months with pyridoxine, a form of vitamin B6, to prevent the side effect of nerve damage in your hands and feet.Or, you may be able to take rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin)for 4 months, or a combination of INH and rifapentine ( RPT) weekly for 3 months.To treat active tuberculosis, you'll take a combination of drugs for several months that commonly include: Ethambutol, or EMB ( Myambutol) Isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid) Pyrazinamide, or PZA ( Tebrazid) Rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin) Drugs for HIV and for TB don't always work well together.Your doctor will decide which combination of medications will be best for you.If you have active TB, your TB must be treated immediately.If you are already on ART, your doctor may have to adjust your HIV drugs.If you are not already on ART, your doctor will decide how soon you should start ART.If you have active TB, at you'll likely need to stay away from others so you don't spread TB.Then, after about 3 weeks of treatment, you won't be able to infect anyone.Your doctor can confirm this with three negative TB smear tests.Keep taking your TB medications the way your doctor told you to, and finish them.If you stop or don't take them as often as your doctor says you should, the germs can become resistant, you could get sick again, and the drugs may stop working.

<human>: How do drugs for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis (TB) interact? <bot>: To treat active tuberculosis, you'll take a combination of drugs for several months that commonly include: Ethambutol, or EMB ( Myambutol) Isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid) Pyrazinamide, or PZA ( Tebrazid) Rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin) Drugs for HIV and for TB don't always work well together. Your doctor will decide which combination of medications will be best for you. If you have active TB, your TB must be treated immediately. If you are already on ART, your doctor may have to adjust your HIV drugs. If you are not already on ART, your doctor will decide how soon you should start ART.,context:Most people think of tuberculosis, often called TB, as a serious disease that affects the lungs. That's true, but it can also affect other parts of your body, including your brain and spine. It's not a problem for most people with healthy immune systems: You can have TB germs in your body and not get sick yourself or spread the disease to others. But it's different for someone who is HIV-positive. When your immune system is weak, TB germs can multiply and cause symptoms. Someone infected with both HIV and TB is at least 10 times more likely to develop active TB, especially when their CD4 count is under 200. Regardless of your CD4 count, having both infections also means you have AIDS, the advanced stage of HIV. Worldwide, TB is a leading cause of death for people with HIV. Taking steps to prevent this opportunistic infection and getting tested and treated for it are an important part of living with HIV. It not only helps control tuberculosis, but it helps prevent greater damage to your immune system. The bacteria that cause tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, travel through the air when you cough or sneeze. But you're not likely to get TB through a single contact. And you can't get it from sharing dishes or utensils, or by touching someone who has it. Your chances of getting TB are much greater if you're around an infected person often, like someone you work with or live with. Tuberculosis spreads more easily in crowded places with little fresh air, too. Talk to your doctor about whether it's safe for you to spend a lot of time somewhere like a hospital, clinic, doctor's office, nursing home, jail or prison, or a shelter for homeless people. You're also more likely to get TB if you: Are pregnant Are younger than 5 years old or older than 65 Drink alcohol or inject drugs Don't eat well Active tuberculosis makes you feel sick with these symptoms: A bad cough that lasts for more than 2 weeks Coughing up mucus or blood Chest pain You may also have: Weakness or fatigue Weight loss Not much of an appetite Fever or chills Night sweats As soon as you know you have HIV, you should get a tuberculin skin test ( TST). You'll get a small amount of liquid with a TB protein injected under the skin on your arm. After 2 or 3 days, a health care provider checks the injection site; swelling and redness are signs of tuberculosis infection. Or you could get a blood test called interferon-gamma release assay ( IGRA). A positive TST or IGRA doesn't necessarily mean that you have TB disease (sometimes referred to as “active” TB). This is because the TB germ can remain silent in your body (sometimes called “latent” TB). Other tests can help confirm whether you have active TB disease. These are important to get if you have symptoms that suggest TB (even if your TST or IGRA was negative) or if an earlier TST or IGRA was negative but is now positive: A chest X-ray, which takes a picture of your lungs A TB smear test, where your doctor takes a sample of the phlegm you've coughed up and looks at it under a microscope for signs of bacteria A sputum culture, which lets the bacteria in the mucus grow so a technician can check for the one that causes TB A molecular test, which can determine if you have TB DNA in your sputum After a negative TST, you should get tested again periodically, if you live or work in a setting where you might get exposed to someone with TB. Babies born to HIV-positive moms should get tested at 9-12 months of age. Whether or not your TB is active, you will need to be treated right away. There are drugs that prevent tuberculosis infection from becoming the disease. Your doctor will need to confirm that you don't have active TB first. Then you'll take isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid), for 9 months with pyridoxine, a form of vitamin B6, to prevent the side effect of nerve damage in your hands and feet. Or, you may be able to take rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin)for 4 months, or a combination of INH and rifapentine ( RPT) weekly for 3 months. To treat active tuberculosis, you'll take a combination of drugs for several months that commonly include: Ethambutol, or EMB ( Myambutol) Isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid) Pyrazinamide, or PZA ( Tebrazid) Rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin) Drugs for HIV and for TB don't always work well together. Your doctor will decide which combination of medications will be best for you. If you have active TB, your TB must be treated immediately. If you are already on ART, your doctor may have to adjust your HIV drugs. If you are not already on ART, your doctor will decide how soon you should start ART. If you have active TB, at you'll likely need to stay away from others so you don't spread TB. Then, after about 3 weeks of treatment, you won't be able to infect anyone. Your doctor can confirm this with three negative TB smear tests. Keep taking your TB medications the way your doctor told you to, and finish them. If you stop or don't take them as often as your doctor says you should, the germs can become resistant, you could get sick again, and the drugs may stop working.,Most people think of tuberculosis, often called TB, as a serious disease that affects the lungs.That's true, but it can also affect other parts of your body, including your brain and spine.It's not a problem for most people with healthy immune systems: You can have TB germs in your body and not get sick yourself or spread the disease to others.But it's different for someone who is HIV-positive.When your immune system is weak, TB germs can multiply and cause symptoms.Someone infected with both HIV and TB is at least 10 times more likely to develop active TB, especially when their CD4 count is under 200.Regardless of your CD4 count, having both infections also means you have AIDS, the advanced stage of HIV.Worldwide, TB is a leading cause of death for people with HIV.Taking steps to prevent this opportunistic infection and getting tested and treated for it are an important part of living with HIV.It not only helps control tuberculosis, but it helps prevent greater damage to your immune system.The bacteria that cause tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, travel through the air when you cough or sneeze.But you're not likely to get TB through a single contact.And you can't get it from sharing dishes or utensils, or by touching someone who has it.Your chances of getting TB are much greater if you're around an infected person often, like someone you work with or live with.Tuberculosis spreads more easily in crowded places with little fresh air, too.Talk to your doctor about whether it's safe for you to spend a lot of time somewhere like a hospital, clinic, doctor's office, nursing home, jail or prison, or a shelter for homeless people.You're also more likely to get TB if you: Are pregnant Are younger than 5 years old or older than 65 Drink alcohol or inject drugs Don't eat well Active tuberculosis makes you feel sick with these symptoms: A bad cough that lasts for more than 2 weeks Coughing up mucus or blood Chest pain You may also have: Weakness or fatigue Weight loss Not much of an appetite Fever or chills Night sweats As soon as you know you have HIV, you should get a tuberculin skin test ( TST).You'll get a small amount of liquid with a TB protein injected under the skin on your arm.After 2 or 3 days, a health care provider checks the injection site; swelling and redness are signs of tuberculosis infection.Or you could get a blood test called interferon-gamma release assay ( IGRA).A positive TST or IGRA doesn't necessarily mean that you have TB disease (sometimes referred to as “active” TB).This is because the TB germ can remain silent in your body (sometimes called “latent” TB).Other tests can help confirm whether you have active TB disease.These are important to get if you have symptoms that suggest TB (even if your TST or IGRA was negative) or if an earlier TST or IGRA was negative but is now positive: A chest X-ray, which takes a picture of your lungs A TB smear test, where your doctor takes a sample of the phlegm you've coughed up and looks at it under a microscope for signs of bacteria A sputum culture, which lets the bacteria in the mucus grow so a technician can check for the one that causes TB A molecular test, which can determine if you have TB DNA in your sputum After a negative TST, you should get tested again periodically, if you live or work in a setting where you might get exposed to someone with TB.Babies born to HIV-positive moms should get tested at 9-12 months of age.Whether or not your TB is active, you will need to be treated right away.There are drugs that prevent tuberculosis infection from becoming the disease.Your doctor will need to confirm that you don't have active TB first.Then you'll take isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid), for 9 months with pyridoxine, a form of vitamin B6, to prevent the side effect of nerve damage in your hands and feet.Or, you may be able to take rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin)for 4 months, or a combination of INH and rifapentine ( RPT) weekly for 3 months.To treat active tuberculosis, you'll take a combination of drugs for several months that commonly include: Ethambutol, or EMB ( Myambutol) Isoniazid, or INH ( Nydrazid) Pyrazinamide, or PZA ( Tebrazid) Rifampin, or RIF ( Rifadin) Drugs for HIV and for TB don't always work well together.Your doctor will decide which combination of medications will be best for you.If you have active TB, your TB must be treated immediately.If you are already on ART, your doctor may have to adjust your HIV drugs.If you are not already on ART, your doctor will decide how soon you should start ART.If you have active TB, at you'll likely need to stay away from others so you don't spread TB.Then, after about 3 weeks of treatment, you won't be able to infect anyone.Your doctor can confirm this with three negative TB smear tests.Keep taking your TB medications the way your doctor told you to, and finish them.If you stop or don't take them as often as your doctor says you should, the germs can become resistant, you could get sick again, and the drugs may stop working.

<human>: What are some other symptoms someone with migraines may feel? <bot>: There are still more ways you might feel when you get a migraine. Some things to watch out for: Increased appetite Sweating or cold hands Pale facial color Drowsiness or depression Restlessness Sense of well-being Surge of energy Excessive yawning No matter how you feel, it's a good idea to keep a diary of your symptoms. Take it with you when you see your doctor so you can give him an accurate update on what's been going on. It will help him make the right diagnosis and put you on the road to relief.,context:If you're like a lot of folks, you probably think a migraine means you've got a splitting headache. But there's a lot more to it than that. Along with the pain, your body will send you other telltale signs, from shifts in your spirits to feeling sick to your stomach. The sooner you recognize what's happening, the quicker you can get the right kind of relief. A change in mood is part of the migraine package for about 60% of people. When it happens before a migraine hits, doctors call it a "prodrome." A mood swing after a migraine eases is called a "postdrome." Researchers haven't fully connected the dots between migraine headaches and moodiness. But whatever the reasons, your mood may shift in a variety of ways. You may: Feel hyperactive Find it hard to think Have trouble concentrating Get depressed or anxious Feel cheerful About 25% of people who get a migraine have visual changes that are known as auras. You may see spots, wavy or jagged lines, or flashing lights. The symptoms usually ease in under an hour. Auras can also happen before a migraine headache hits, serving as a warning sign. In some cases, you may get an aura without a headache. Besides vision issues, some other aura symptoms that you may notice are: Numbness or feeling of pins and needles in your arm or leg Verbal quirks that make it hard to speak Limb weakness or uncontrollable jerking You may find these feelings begin gradually, then build up over several minutes. They can last for up to an hour. Lots of folks with migraines get nauseated or throw up. The possible culprit: sudden changes in brain chemistry that affect your brain vomiting center. When you have a migraine, you might feel like heading to a dark, quiet spot for relief. Sensitivity to light and noise is behind it. Your doctor may call your urge to avoid light "photophobia" and your sensitivity to sound "phonophobia." Migraine headaches are sometimes misdiagnosed as a sinus headache or a tension-type headache. That's because migraines can give you pain in your sinus, jaw, or neck area. When you have a full-blown attack, you may be sensitive to anything or anyone touching your head. The reason? Many researchers point to abnormal changes in levels of substances that are naturally produced in your brain. When the levels increase, they can cause inflammation and irritate nearby nerves, causing pain. There are still more ways you might feel when you get a migraine. Some things to watch out for: Increased appetite Sweating or cold hands Pale facial color Drowsiness or depression Restlessness Sense of well-being Surge of energy Excessive yawning No matter how you feel, it's a good idea to keep a diary of your symptoms. Take it with you when you see your doctor so you can give him an accurate update on what's been going on. It will help him make the right diagnosis and put you on the road to relief.,If you're like a lot of folks, you probably think a migraine means you've got a splitting headache.But there's a lot more to it than that.Along with the pain, your body will send you other telltale signs, from shifts in your spirits to feeling sick to your stomach.The sooner you recognize what's happening, the quicker you can get the right kind of relief.A change in mood is part of the migraine package for about 60% of people.When it happens before a migraine hits, doctors call it a "prodrome."A mood swing after a migraine eases is called a "postdrome."Researchers haven't fully connected the dots between migraine headaches and moodiness.But whatever the reasons, your mood may shift in a variety of ways.You may: Feel hyperactive Find it hard to think Have trouble concentrating Get depressed or anxious Feel cheerful About 25% of people who get a migraine have visual changes that are known as auras.You may see spots, wavy or jagged lines, or flashing lights.The symptoms usually ease in under an hour.Auras can also happen before a migraine headache hits, serving as a warning sign.In some cases, you may get an aura without a headache.Besides vision issues, some other aura symptoms that you may notice are: Numbness or feeling of pins and needles in your arm or leg Verbal quirks that make it hard to speak Limb weakness or uncontrollable jerking You may find these feelings begin gradually, then build up over several minutes.They can last for up to an hour.Lots of folks with migraines get nauseated or throw up.The possible culprit: sudden changes in brain chemistry that affect your brain vomiting center.When you have a migraine, you might feel like heading to a dark, quiet spot for relief.Sensitivity to light and noise is behind it.Your doctor may call your urge to avoid light "photophobia" and your sensitivity to sound "phonophobia."Migraine headaches are sometimes misdiagnosed as a sinus headache or a tension-type headache.That's because migraines can give you pain in your sinus, jaw, or neck area.When you have a full-blown attack, you may be sensitive to anything or anyone touching your head.The reason?Many researchers point to abnormal changes in levels of substances that are naturally produced in your brain.When the levels increase, they can cause inflammation and irritate nearby nerves, causing pain.There are still more ways you might feel when you get a migraine.Some things to watch out for: Increased appetite Sweating or cold hands Pale facial color Drowsiness or depression Restlessness Sense of well-being Surge of energy Excessive yawning No matter how you feel, it's a good idea to keep a diary of your symptoms.Take it with you when you see your doctor so you can give him an accurate update on what's been going on.It will help him make the right diagnosis and put you on the road to relief.

<human>: What should I do if my prescribed medications are not treating my atrial fibrillation (AFib)? <bot>: Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: If I am treating atrial fibrillation (AFib), will I need to take blood-thinning medicine before starting a heart rhythm medicine? <bot>: You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: What other blood pressure medications are used to treat atrial fibrillation (AFib)? <bot>: These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: How can I be prescribed heart rhythm medications to treat my atrial fibrillation (AFib)? <bot>: Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: I am treating my atrial fibrillation (AFib), what are my options for heart rhythm medications? <bot>: Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: I am treating atrial fibrillation (AFib), can blood thinning medications increase my chances of bleeding? <bot>: Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: What are my options of blood thinning medicines to treat my atrial fibrillation (AFib)? <bot>: Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: Is blood pressure medication used to treat atrial fibrillation (AFib)? <bot>: One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: What are the side effects of calcium channel blockers when treating atrial fibrillation (AFib)? <bot>: Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: What are the side effects of digoxin (Digox, Lanoxin) when treating atrial fibrillation (AFib)? <bot>: Slow your heart rate . Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.,context:When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke. For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option. Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib. You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you. When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter. It can also beat too fast. This sensation is sometimes called palpitations. AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles). Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots. If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke. These medicines do a few different things. They can: Prevent blood clots. These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke. Slow your heart rate . Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute. This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body. Control your heart rhythm. Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better. Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots. They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%. Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding. Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed. Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much. If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose. Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising. You have an accident of any kind. You often find bruises or blood blisters. You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy. You think you're pregnant. You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee. You periods get heavier. Your gums bleed. You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away. If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up. Ask your doctor what to do. As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another. Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding. If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication. Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body. One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate. These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better. Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine. Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma. They can cause severe asthma attacks. If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat. Check your blood sugar often. They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes. Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems. These are another type of blood pressure medicine. They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate. Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers. They can change the way these medications work. This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles. Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart. This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion. Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you. Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib. Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office. Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working. Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm. You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot. Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib. If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery. Discuss all of your options with your doctor.,When you have atrial fibrillation, the goal is to get your heart back into rhythm and prevent blood clots that can lead to a stroke.For many people with AFib, medicine is the best treatment option.Learn which medicines your doctor could prescribe to treat your AFib.You'll get the most benefit from these medications if you take them just as your doctor and pharmacist tell you.When you have AFib, abnormal electrical signals make your heart quiver or flutter.It can also beat too fast.This sensation is sometimes called palpitations.AFib prevents blood from flowing normally from your heart's upper chambers (called the atria) to the lower ones (the ventricles).Blood can pool in the atria and form clumps called clots.If one travels to your brain, it could cause a stroke.These medicines do a few different things.They can: Prevent blood clots.These types of medications lower your chances of having a stroke.Slow your heart rate .Some medications lower the number of times your ventricles contract each minute.This slowed rhythm gives them enough time to fill with blood before pumping it out to your body.Control your heart rhythm.Other medicines help your atria and ventricles work together to pump blood better.Blood-thinning medicines help prevent blood clots.They can lower your chances of a stroke by 50% to 70%.Some examples of these drugs are: Apixaban ( Eliquis) Aspirin Clopidogrel ( Plavix) Dabigatran ( Pradaxa) Enoxaparin ( Lovenox) Heparin Rivaroxaban ( Xarelto) Warfarin ( Coumadin, Jantoven) All of these medicines can raise your chances of bleeding.Be very careful when you play sports or do activities that could cause you to injure yourself and bleed.Precautions: Blood thinners can make you more likely to bruise or bleed too much.If you take warfarin, for example, you'll see your doctor for a blood test every month to make sure it's working and you're on the right dose.Call your doctor right away if: You have any unusual bleeding or bruising.You have an accident of any kind.You often find bruises or blood blisters.You feel sick, weak, faint, or dizzy.You think you're pregnant.You notice red, dark brown, or black poop or pee.You periods get heavier.Your gums bleed.You have a severe headache or stomachache that won't go away.If you forget a dose, don't take an extra one to make it up.Ask your doctor what to do.As your doctor about differences if you switch from one type to another.Tell other doctors and your dentist if you're taking one of these mediations if you have a procedure that could cause bleeding.If you're taking warfarin, tell any doctor who wants to give you a new medication.Some drugs and vitamins change the way it works in your body.One group of AFib medications alters the electrical signals in your heart to slow your heart rate.These medicines don't fix the abnormal heart rhythm, but they can help you feel better.Beta-blockers are a type of blood pressure medicine.Some of them are: Atenolol ( Tenormin) Bisoprolol ( Zebeta, Ziac) Carvedilol ( Coreg) Metoprolol ( Lopressor, Toprol) Propranolol ( Inderal, Innopran) Timolol ( Betimol, Istalol) Side effects of beta-blockers can include: Feeling tired Cold hands and feet Weakness and dizziness Dry mouth, eyes, and skin Precautions: Beta-blockers don't work for everyone: Don't take them if you have asthma.They can cause severe asthma attacks.If you have diabetes, be aware they could block signs of low blood sugar, like a rapid heartbeat.Check your blood sugar often.They can raise your triglycerides and lower your good cholesterol, but these are short-term changes.Don't suddenly stop taking a beta-blocker -- you could raise your odds of having a heart attack or other problems.These are another type of blood pressure medicine.They relax blood vessels in your heart and slow your heart rate.Examples are: Diltiazem ( Cardizem, Dilacor) Verapamil ( Calan, Calan SR, Covera- HS, Isoptin SR, Verelan) Some of the possible side effects of calcium channel blockers: Feeling tired Red skin Swelling of the belly, ankles, or feet Heartburn Precautions: Skip grapefruits and grapefruit juice if you're taking calcium channel blockers.They can change the way these medications work.This medication works on your heart's electrical system to slow the rate that signals move from the atria to the ventricles.Side effects include: Nausea and vomiting Diarrhea Stomach pain Appetite loss Slow or fast heartbeat Confusion These medications control your heart rhythm by slowing the electrical signals through your heart.This type of treatment is called cardioversion with drugs, or sometimes chemical cardioversion.Your doctor might recommend one of these medicines if rate control drugs alone haven't helped you.Heart rhythm medications work best if you just recently started having AFib.Options include: Sodium channel blockers, which slow your heart's ability to conduct electricity: Flecainide ( Tambocor) Propafenone ( Rythmol) Quinidine Potassium channel blockers, which slow the electrical signals that cause AFib: Amiodarone ( Cordarone, Nexterone, Pacerone), Dofetilide ( Tikosyn) Sotalol ( Betapace, Sorine, Sotylize) You'll get this type of treatment in a hospital or at your doctor's office.Your doctor will watch your heart rhythm during treatment to see how well the medicine is working.Side effects from these medications can range from blurred vision and dry mouth to a slowed heart rhythm.You might need to take a blood-thinning medicine for a few weeks before you start on one of these drugs to prevent a clot.Continue Reading Below Medicines are one option for treating AFib.If they don't work or you can't live with the side effects, you do have other choices, including surgery.Discuss all of your options with your doctor.

<human>: How can an inhaler help me quit smoking? <bot>: Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine. It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks.,context:Congratulations! You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health. Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover. Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop. In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe. Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success. Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method. But it isn't easy. About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again. If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal. Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine. They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms. The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether. You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start. Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body. They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription. Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day. You can reuse a spot after a week has passed. It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product. Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek. When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes. For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours. Treatment should last around 12 weeks. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth. Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription. Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks. Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine. It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks. Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor. You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription. It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less. It also eases withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good. Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting. Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke. You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it. Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to. Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth. Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool. Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help. Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse. Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost. If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call. Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state. He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke. Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all. Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit. Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program. Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods. A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body. Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke. Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose. You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket. Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin. Studies haven't confirmed that it works.,Congratulations!You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health.Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover.Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop.In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe.Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success.Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method.But it isn't easy.About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again.If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal.Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine.They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms.The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether.You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products.If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start.Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body.They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription.Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day.You can reuse a spot after a week has passed.It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product.Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek.When the tingling is gone, start chewing again.Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes.For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours.Treatment should last around 12 weeks.If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor.Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals.They dissolve in your mouth.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.Treatment should take 12 weeks.Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth.Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription.Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks.Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine.It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks.Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor.You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system.Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less.It also eases withdrawal symptoms.Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good.Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting.Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke.You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it.Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to.Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth.Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool.Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help.Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse.Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost.If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call.Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state.He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke.Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all.Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit.Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program.Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods.A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body.Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke.Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose.You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket.Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin.Studies haven't confirmed that it works.

<human>: How can nicotine replacement products help when you quit smoking? <bot>: Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine. They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms. The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether. You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start.,context:Congratulations! You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health. Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover. Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop. In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe. Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success. Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method. But it isn't easy. About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again. If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal. Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine. They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms. The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether. You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start. Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body. They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription. Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day. You can reuse a spot after a week has passed. It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product. Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek. When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes. For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours. Treatment should last around 12 weeks. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth. Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription. Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks. Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine. It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks. Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor. You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription. It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less. It also eases withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good. Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting. Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke. You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it. Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to. Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth. Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool. Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help. Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse. Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost. If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call. Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state. He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke. Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all. Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit. Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program. Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods. A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body. Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke. Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose. You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket. Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin. Studies haven't confirmed that it works.,Congratulations!You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health.Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover.Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop.In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe.Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success.Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method.But it isn't easy.About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again.If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal.Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine.They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms.The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether.You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products.If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start.Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body.They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription.Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day.You can reuse a spot after a week has passed.It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product.Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek.When the tingling is gone, start chewing again.Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes.For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours.Treatment should last around 12 weeks.If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor.Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals.They dissolve in your mouth.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.Treatment should take 12 weeks.Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth.Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription.Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks.Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine.It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks.Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor.You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system.Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less.It also eases withdrawal symptoms.Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good.Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting.Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke.You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it.Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to.Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth.Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool.Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help.Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse.Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost.If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call.Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state.He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke.Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all.Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit.Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program.Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods.A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body.Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke.Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose.You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket.Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin.Studies haven't confirmed that it works.

<human>: How can bupropion (Zyban) help when you quit smoking? <bot>: Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke. You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it. Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to. Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth.,context:Congratulations! You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health. Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover. Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop. In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe. Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success. Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method. But it isn't easy. About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again. If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal. Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine. They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms. The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether. You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start. Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body. They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription. Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day. You can reuse a spot after a week has passed. It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product. Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek. When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes. For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours. Treatment should last around 12 weeks. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth. Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription. Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks. Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine. It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks. Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor. You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription. It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less. It also eases withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good. Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting. Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke. You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it. Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to. Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth. Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool. Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help. Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse. Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost. If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call. Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state. He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke. Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all. Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit. Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program. Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods. A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body. Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke. Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose. You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket. Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin. Studies haven't confirmed that it works.,Congratulations!You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health.Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover.Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop.In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe.Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success.Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method.But it isn't easy.About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again.If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal.Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine.They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms.The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether.You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products.If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start.Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body.They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription.Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day.You can reuse a spot after a week has passed.It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product.Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek.When the tingling is gone, start chewing again.Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes.For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours.Treatment should last around 12 weeks.If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor.Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals.They dissolve in your mouth.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.Treatment should take 12 weeks.Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth.Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription.Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks.Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine.It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks.Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor.You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system.Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less.It also eases withdrawal symptoms.Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good.Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting.Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke.You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it.Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to.Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth.Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool.Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help.Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse.Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost.If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call.Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state.He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke.Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all.Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit.Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program.Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods.A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body.Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke.Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose.You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket.Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin.Studies haven't confirmed that it works.

<human>: How can counseling help me quit smoking? <bot>: Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool. Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help. Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse. Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost. If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call.,context:Congratulations! You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health. Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover. Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop. In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe. Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success. Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method. But it isn't easy. About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again. If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal. Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine. They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms. The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether. You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start. Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body. They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription. Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day. You can reuse a spot after a week has passed. It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product. Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek. When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes. For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours. Treatment should last around 12 weeks. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth. Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription. Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks. Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine. It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks. Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor. You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription. It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less. It also eases withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good. Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting. Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke. You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it. Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to. Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth. Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool. Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help. Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse. Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost. If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call. Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state. He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke. Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all. Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit. Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program. Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods. A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body. Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke. Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose. You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket. Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin. Studies haven't confirmed that it works.,Congratulations!You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health.Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover.Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop.In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe.Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success.Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method.But it isn't easy.About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again.If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal.Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine.They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms.The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether.You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products.If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start.Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body.They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription.Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day.You can reuse a spot after a week has passed.It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product.Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek.When the tingling is gone, start chewing again.Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes.For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours.Treatment should last around 12 weeks.If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor.Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals.They dissolve in your mouth.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.Treatment should take 12 weeks.Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth.Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription.Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks.Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine.It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks.Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor.You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system.Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less.It also eases withdrawal symptoms.Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good.Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting.Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke.You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it.Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to.Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth.Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool.Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help.Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse.Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost.If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call.Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state.He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke.Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all.Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit.Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program.Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods.A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body.Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke.Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose.You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket.Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin.Studies haven't confirmed that it works.

<human>: How can nicotine lozenges help me quit smoking? <bot>: Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks.,context:Congratulations! You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health. Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover. Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop. In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe. Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success. Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method. But it isn't easy. About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again. If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal. Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine. They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms. The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether. You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start. Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body. They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription. Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day. You can reuse a spot after a week has passed. It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product. Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek. When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes. For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours. Treatment should last around 12 weeks. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth. Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription. Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks. Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine. It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks. Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor. You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription. It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less. It also eases withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good. Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting. Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke. You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it. Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to. Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth. Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool. Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help. Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse. Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost. If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call. Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state. He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke. Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all. Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit. Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program. Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods. A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body. Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke. Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose. You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket. Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin. Studies haven't confirmed that it works.,Congratulations!You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health.Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover.Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop.In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe.Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success.Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method.But it isn't easy.About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again.If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal.Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine.They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms.The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether.You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products.If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start.Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body.They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription.Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day.You can reuse a spot after a week has passed.It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product.Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek.When the tingling is gone, start chewing again.Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes.For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours.Treatment should last around 12 weeks.If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor.Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals.They dissolve in your mouth.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.Treatment should take 12 weeks.Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth.Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription.Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks.Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine.It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks.Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor.You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system.Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less.It also eases withdrawal symptoms.Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good.Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting.Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke.You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it.Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to.Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth.Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool.Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help.Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse.Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost.If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call.Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state.He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke.Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all.Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit.Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program.Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods.A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body.Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke.Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose.You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket.Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin.Studies haven't confirmed that it works.

<human>: How can hypnosis help me quit smoking? <bot>: Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state. He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke. Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all. Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit.,context:Congratulations! You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health. Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover. Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop. In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe. Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success. Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method. But it isn't easy. About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again. If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal. Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine. They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms. The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether. You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start. Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body. They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription. Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day. You can reuse a spot after a week has passed. It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product. Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek. When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes. For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours. Treatment should last around 12 weeks. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth. Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription. Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks. Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine. It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks. Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor. You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription. It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less. It also eases withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good. Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting. Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke. You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it. Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to. Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth. Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool. Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help. Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse. Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost. If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call. Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state. He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke. Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all. Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit. Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program. Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods. A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body. Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke. Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose. You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket. Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin. Studies haven't confirmed that it works.,Congratulations!You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health.Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover.Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop.In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe.Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success.Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method.But it isn't easy.About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again.If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal.Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine.They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms.The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether.You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products.If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start.Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body.They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription.Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day.You can reuse a spot after a week has passed.It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product.Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek.When the tingling is gone, start chewing again.Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes.For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours.Treatment should last around 12 weeks.If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor.Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals.They dissolve in your mouth.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.Treatment should take 12 weeks.Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth.Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription.Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks.Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine.It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks.Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor.You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system.Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less.It also eases withdrawal symptoms.Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good.Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting.Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke.You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it.Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to.Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth.Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool.Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help.Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse.Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost.If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call.Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state.He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke.Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all.Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit.Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program.Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods.A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body.Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke.Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose.You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket.Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin.Studies haven't confirmed that it works.

<human>: How can nicotine gum help me quit smoking? <bot>: When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.,context:Congratulations! You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health. Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover. Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop. In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe. Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success. Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method. But it isn't easy. About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again. If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal. Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine. They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms. The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether. You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start. Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body. They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription. Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day. You can reuse a spot after a week has passed. It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product. Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek. When the tingling is gone, start chewing again. Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes. For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours. Treatment should last around 12 weeks. If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor. Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals. They dissolve in your mouth. Your dose depends on how much you smoke. Treatment should take 12 weeks. Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth. Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription. Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks. Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine. It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks. Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor. You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system. Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription. It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less. It also eases withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good. Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting. Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke. You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it. Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to. Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth. Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool. Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help. Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse. Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost. If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call. Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state. He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke. Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all. Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit. Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program. Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods. A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body. Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke. Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose. You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket. Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin. Studies haven't confirmed that it works.,Congratulations!You've decided to quit smoking, one of the best choices you can make for your health.Right after you take that last puff, your body will start to recover.Carbon monoxide levels in your blood will drop.In less than a week, it'll be easier to breathe.Quitting is hard, and so you'll want to give yourself your best shot at success.Going cold turkey, where you simply stop smoking without any help, is a popular method.But it isn't easy.About 95% of smokers who attempt it will start smoking again.If you're one of them, there are tools to help you reach your goal.Nicotine Replacement Products These slowly break your addiction with controlled doses of nicotine.They let you manage your cravings and provide some relief from withdrawal symptoms.The doses get lower and lower as you take them, so you get used to less and less nicotine before you stop altogether.You may have up to a 70% greater chance of quitting if you use one of these products.If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your doctor before you start.Patch: Placed right on your skin, patches release a small amount of nicotine into your body.They're available over the counter ( OTC), which means that you don't need a prescription.Place a new patch on a different spot on your body every day.You can reuse a spot after a week has passed.It may be more effective to start using the patch a few days before your quit date and to use it along with another nicotine product.Gum: You chew this OTC product just like regular gum.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.When you feel a tingle in your mouth, stop and put it in your cheek.When the tingling is gone, start chewing again.Do this over and over again until the tingle is gone – usually after about 30 minutes.For the first 6 weeks, you'll chew one piece every 1 or 2 hours.Treatment should last around 12 weeks.If you feel the need to continue, talk to your doctor.Lozenge: You take these OTC capsules after meals.They dissolve in your mouth.Your dose depends on how much you smoke.Treatment should take 12 weeks.Spray: This delivers nicotine through your nose or mouth.Some you can buy over the counter, and for others, you'll need to visit your doctor to get a prescription.Like other nicotine products, you should use it for 12 weeks.Inhaler : Just like the asthma treatment, you place this cartridge into your mouth and breathe in a puff of nicotine.It's by prescription only, and you'll use it for about 12 weeks.Prescription Medications You can only get these medicines with a prescription from your doctor.You'd need to start either drug before your quit date to give it time to build up in your system.Varenicline ( Chantix ) is probably the first medicine you'll try if you need a prescription.It works with the part of your brain that reacts to nicotine so you enjoy smoking less.It also eases withdrawal symptoms.Varenicline is safe to use with nicotine products, and one study shows that a combination of the two may improve your chances of quitting for good.Side effects may include nausea, trouble with sleep, headaches, and vomiting.Bupropion is an antidepressant that lowers your desire to smoke.You're most likely to get it if varenicline doesn't work or if there's a reason you can't take it.Don't take it with nicotine products unless your doctor tells you to.Common side effects are insomnia, nightmares, and a dry mouth.Other Methods Counseling : You can use it as your main method or a support tool.Brief sessions, even as short as 3 minutes, have been shown to help.Programs differ, but in general, they help you pick a quit date, give you techniques to make the change, and teach you how to manage the process and prevent a relapse.Many hospitals and clinics offer solo and group sessions with counselors for free or at a low cost.If that isn't an option, every state has a quit-smoking hotline you can call.Hypnosis: A trained hypnotherapist will place you into trance-like state.He'll then make suggestions that will help you get rid of the urge to smoke.Doctors still don't know how effective this method is or if it works at all.Some studies say that it works better than using nicotine products, while others say there's no benefit.Apps and online support groups: Do some research and find one that meets your needs, so that you're more likely to stick with the program.Acupuncture : This might work if you've had side effects from other quitting methods.A trained practitioner uses thin metal needles to stimulate pressure points on your body.Spots on your ears, in particular, seem to boost brain chemicals that help curb your desire to smoke.Studies haven't confirmed that it works for this purpose.You'll need several sessions, and you'll want to check on whether your insurance covers it, unless you're OK paying for it out of your own pocket.Laser therapy: This works like acupuncture, but instead of needles, it uses low-level lasers that won't hurt your skin.Studies haven't confirmed that it works.

<human>: How can a dentist tell when a wisdom teeth removal is needed? <bot>: Your dentist will look at the shape of your mouth and the position of your teeth to make a decision. Your age plays a role, too. Still not ready to part with your molars? You can ask your dentist to explain what he sees with your teeth. In many cases, you can wait several months to see if things change before making your decision. But if you have pain or notice swelling or a bad odor near your back teeth, it may be time for a second look.,context:Your dentist says you need to have your wisdom teeth taken out. But they don't hurt, you say, so why remove them? These days, oral surgery to remove wisdom teeth is a standard practice -- almost a rite of passage for young adults. It's not always necessary, though. Still, just because your wisdom teeth aren't a source of pain doesn't mean there's nothing wrong. The teeth could be stuck, or impacted. That means they can't break through your jaw and into your mouth. Maybe your mouth is too small to make room for them, or the teeth could be growing at an angle to other teeth. They can damage the tooth next door if they push up against it. Some dentists take out healthy molars to prevent problems later on. As you age, the bones in your mouth get harder. That makes your teeth tougher to remove. If you wait, you could have problems after surgery that range from heavy bleeding and fractured teeth to severe numbness and minor loss of movement in your jaw. These troubles could last a few days or a lifetime. When wisdom teeth cause problems, or X-rays show they might down the line, they need to come out. Other good reasons to take them out include: Damage to other teeth: That extra set of molars can push your other teeth around, causing mouth pain and bite problems. Jaw damage: Cysts can form around the new teeth. If they aren't treated, they can hollow out your jaw and damage nerves. Sinus Issues: Problems with wisdom teeth can lead to sinus pain, pressure, and congestion. Inflamed Gums: Tissue around the area can swell and may be hard to clean. Cavities: Swollen gums can create pockets between teeth that help bacteria grow and cavities form. Alignment: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause problems with crowding of other teeth and even make treatment to straighten other teeth necessary. Your dentist will look at the shape of your mouth and the position of your teeth to make a decision. Your age plays a role, too. Still not ready to part with your molars? You can ask your dentist to explain what he sees with your teeth. In many cases, you can wait several months to see if things change before making your decision. But if you have pain or notice swelling or a bad odor near your back teeth, it may be time for a second look.,Your dentist says you need to have your wisdom teeth taken out.But they don't hurt, you say, so why remove them?These days, oral surgery to remove wisdom teeth is a standard practice -- almost a rite of passage for young adults.It's not always necessary, though.Still, just because your wisdom teeth aren't a source of pain doesn't mean there's nothing wrong.The teeth could be stuck, or impacted.That means they can't break through your jaw and into your mouth.Maybe your mouth is too small to make room for them, or the teeth could be growing at an angle to other teeth.They can damage the tooth next door if they push up against it.Some dentists take out healthy molars to prevent problems later on.As you age, the bones in your mouth get harder.That makes your teeth tougher to remove.If you wait, you could have problems after surgery that range from heavy bleeding and fractured teeth to severe numbness and minor loss of movement in your jaw.These troubles could last a few days or a lifetime.When wisdom teeth cause problems, or X-rays show they might down the line, they need to come out.Other good reasons to take them out include: Damage to other teeth: That extra set of molars can push your other teeth around, causing mouth pain and bite problems.Jaw damage: Cysts can form around the new teeth.If they aren't treated, they can hollow out your jaw and damage nerves.Sinus Issues: Problems with wisdom teeth can lead to sinus pain, pressure, and congestion.Inflamed Gums: Tissue around the area can swell and may be hard to clean.Cavities: Swollen gums can create pockets between teeth that help bacteria grow and cavities form.Alignment: Impacted wisdom teeth can cause problems with crowding of other teeth and even make treatment to straighten other teeth necessary.Your dentist will look at the shape of your mouth and the position of your teeth to make a decision.Your age plays a role, too.Still not ready to part with your molars?You can ask your dentist to explain what he sees with your teeth.In many cases, you can wait several months to see if things change before making your decision.But if you have pain or notice swelling or a bad odor near your back teeth, it may be time for a second look.

<human>: What happens during a meditation session? <bot>: During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase. It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm. When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality.,context:Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation. Although meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, the meditative technique called the "relaxation response" was pioneered in the U. S. by Harvard doctor Herbert Benson in the 1970s. The technique has gained acceptance by physicians and therapists worldwide as a means of relieving symptoms of conditions ranging from cancer to AIDS. When our bodies are exposed to a sudden stress or threat, we respond with a characteristic "fight or flight" response. The ''adrenaline rush'' we experience is a result of the release of the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine. They cause an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate, faster breathing, and increased blood flow to the muscles. The relaxation response is a technique designed to elicit the opposite bodily reaction from the "fight or flight" response -- a state of deep relaxation in which our breathing, pulse rate, blood pressure, and metabolism are decreased. Training our bodies on a daily basis to achieve this state of relaxation can lead to enhanced mood, lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and a reduction of everyday stress. The relaxation response technique consists of the silent repetition of a word, sound, or phrase -- perhaps one that has special meaning to you -- while sitting quietly with a good posture and eyes closed for 10 to 20 minutes. This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions. Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep. Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face. Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way. During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase. It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm. When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality. The technique requires some practice and may be difficult at first, but over time almost anyone can learn to achieve the desired state of relaxation. In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day. He recommends not practicing the relaxation response within two hours after eating a meal, because the digestive process may interfere with the technique. The relaxation response can also be elicited through other meditative and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation. No matter how the relaxation state is achieved, the physical and emotional consequences of stress can be reduced through regular practice.,Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation.Although meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, the meditative technique called the "relaxation response" was pioneered in the U. S. by Harvard doctor Herbert Benson in the 1970s.The technique has gained acceptance by physicians and therapists worldwide as a means of relieving symptoms of conditions ranging from cancer to AIDS.When our bodies are exposed to a sudden stress or threat, we respond with a characteristic "fight or flight" response.The ''adrenaline rush'' we experience is a result of the release of the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine.They cause an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate, faster breathing, and increased blood flow to the muscles.The relaxation response is a technique designed to elicit the opposite bodily reaction from the "fight or flight" response -- a state of deep relaxation in which our breathing, pulse rate, blood pressure, and metabolism are decreased.Training our bodies on a daily basis to achieve this state of relaxation can lead to enhanced mood, lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and a reduction of everyday stress.The relaxation response technique consists of the silent repetition of a word, sound, or phrase -- perhaps one that has special meaning to you -- while sitting quietly with a good posture and eyes closed for 10 to 20 minutes.This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions.Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep.Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face.Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way.During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase.It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm.When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality.The technique requires some practice and may be difficult at first, but over time almost anyone can learn to achieve the desired state of relaxation.In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day.He recommends not practicing the relaxation response within two hours after eating a meal, because the digestive process may interfere with the technique.The relaxation response can also be elicited through other meditative and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation.No matter how the relaxation state is achieved, the physical and emotional consequences of stress can be reduced through regular practice.

<human>: What is the history of meditation? <bot>: In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day.,context:Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation. Although meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, the meditative technique called the "relaxation response" was pioneered in the U. S. by Harvard doctor Herbert Benson in the 1970s. The technique has gained acceptance by physicians and therapists worldwide as a means of relieving symptoms of conditions ranging from cancer to AIDS. When our bodies are exposed to a sudden stress or threat, we respond with a characteristic "fight or flight" response. The ''adrenaline rush'' we experience is a result of the release of the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine. They cause an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate, faster breathing, and increased blood flow to the muscles. The relaxation response is a technique designed to elicit the opposite bodily reaction from the "fight or flight" response -- a state of deep relaxation in which our breathing, pulse rate, blood pressure, and metabolism are decreased. Training our bodies on a daily basis to achieve this state of relaxation can lead to enhanced mood, lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and a reduction of everyday stress. The relaxation response technique consists of the silent repetition of a word, sound, or phrase -- perhaps one that has special meaning to you -- while sitting quietly with a good posture and eyes closed for 10 to 20 minutes. This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions. Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep. Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face. Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way. During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase. It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm. When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality. The technique requires some practice and may be difficult at first, but over time almost anyone can learn to achieve the desired state of relaxation. In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day. He recommends not practicing the relaxation response within two hours after eating a meal, because the digestive process may interfere with the technique. The relaxation response can also be elicited through other meditative and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation. No matter how the relaxation state is achieved, the physical and emotional consequences of stress can be reduced through regular practice.,Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation.Although meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, the meditative technique called the "relaxation response" was pioneered in the U. S. by Harvard doctor Herbert Benson in the 1970s.The technique has gained acceptance by physicians and therapists worldwide as a means of relieving symptoms of conditions ranging from cancer to AIDS.When our bodies are exposed to a sudden stress or threat, we respond with a characteristic "fight or flight" response.The ''adrenaline rush'' we experience is a result of the release of the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine.They cause an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate, faster breathing, and increased blood flow to the muscles.The relaxation response is a technique designed to elicit the opposite bodily reaction from the "fight or flight" response -- a state of deep relaxation in which our breathing, pulse rate, blood pressure, and metabolism are decreased.Training our bodies on a daily basis to achieve this state of relaxation can lead to enhanced mood, lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and a reduction of everyday stress.The relaxation response technique consists of the silent repetition of a word, sound, or phrase -- perhaps one that has special meaning to you -- while sitting quietly with a good posture and eyes closed for 10 to 20 minutes.This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions.Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep.Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face.Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way.During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase.It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm.When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality.The technique requires some practice and may be difficult at first, but over time almost anyone can learn to achieve the desired state of relaxation.In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day.He recommends not practicing the relaxation response within two hours after eating a meal, because the digestive process may interfere with the technique.The relaxation response can also be elicited through other meditative and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation.No matter how the relaxation state is achieved, the physical and emotional consequences of stress can be reduced through regular practice.

<human>: How does relaxation response of meditation work? <bot>: This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions. Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep. Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face. Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way. During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase.,context:Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation. Although meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, the meditative technique called the "relaxation response" was pioneered in the U. S. by Harvard doctor Herbert Benson in the 1970s. The technique has gained acceptance by physicians and therapists worldwide as a means of relieving symptoms of conditions ranging from cancer to AIDS. When our bodies are exposed to a sudden stress or threat, we respond with a characteristic "fight or flight" response. The ''adrenaline rush'' we experience is a result of the release of the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine. They cause an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate, faster breathing, and increased blood flow to the muscles. The relaxation response is a technique designed to elicit the opposite bodily reaction from the "fight or flight" response -- a state of deep relaxation in which our breathing, pulse rate, blood pressure, and metabolism are decreased. Training our bodies on a daily basis to achieve this state of relaxation can lead to enhanced mood, lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and a reduction of everyday stress. The relaxation response technique consists of the silent repetition of a word, sound, or phrase -- perhaps one that has special meaning to you -- while sitting quietly with a good posture and eyes closed for 10 to 20 minutes. This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions. Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep. Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face. Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way. During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase. It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm. When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality. The technique requires some practice and may be difficult at first, but over time almost anyone can learn to achieve the desired state of relaxation. In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day. He recommends not practicing the relaxation response within two hours after eating a meal, because the digestive process may interfere with the technique. The relaxation response can also be elicited through other meditative and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation. No matter how the relaxation state is achieved, the physical and emotional consequences of stress can be reduced through regular practice.,Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation.Although meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, the meditative technique called the "relaxation response" was pioneered in the U. S. by Harvard doctor Herbert Benson in the 1970s.The technique has gained acceptance by physicians and therapists worldwide as a means of relieving symptoms of conditions ranging from cancer to AIDS.When our bodies are exposed to a sudden stress or threat, we respond with a characteristic "fight or flight" response.The ''adrenaline rush'' we experience is a result of the release of the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine.They cause an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate, faster breathing, and increased blood flow to the muscles.The relaxation response is a technique designed to elicit the opposite bodily reaction from the "fight or flight" response -- a state of deep relaxation in which our breathing, pulse rate, blood pressure, and metabolism are decreased.Training our bodies on a daily basis to achieve this state of relaxation can lead to enhanced mood, lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and a reduction of everyday stress.The relaxation response technique consists of the silent repetition of a word, sound, or phrase -- perhaps one that has special meaning to you -- while sitting quietly with a good posture and eyes closed for 10 to 20 minutes.This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions.Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep.Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face.Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way.During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase.It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm.When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality.The technique requires some practice and may be difficult at first, but over time almost anyone can learn to achieve the desired state of relaxation.In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day.He recommends not practicing the relaxation response within two hours after eating a meal, because the digestive process may interfere with the technique.The relaxation response can also be elicited through other meditative and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation.No matter how the relaxation state is achieved, the physical and emotional consequences of stress can be reduced through regular practice.

<human>: What is meditation? <bot>: Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation.,context:Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation. Although meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, the meditative technique called the "relaxation response" was pioneered in the U. S. by Harvard doctor Herbert Benson in the 1970s. The technique has gained acceptance by physicians and therapists worldwide as a means of relieving symptoms of conditions ranging from cancer to AIDS. When our bodies are exposed to a sudden stress or threat, we respond with a characteristic "fight or flight" response. The ''adrenaline rush'' we experience is a result of the release of the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine. They cause an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate, faster breathing, and increased blood flow to the muscles. The relaxation response is a technique designed to elicit the opposite bodily reaction from the "fight or flight" response -- a state of deep relaxation in which our breathing, pulse rate, blood pressure, and metabolism are decreased. Training our bodies on a daily basis to achieve this state of relaxation can lead to enhanced mood, lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and a reduction of everyday stress. The relaxation response technique consists of the silent repetition of a word, sound, or phrase -- perhaps one that has special meaning to you -- while sitting quietly with a good posture and eyes closed for 10 to 20 minutes. This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions. Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep. Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face. Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way. During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase. It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm. When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality. The technique requires some practice and may be difficult at first, but over time almost anyone can learn to achieve the desired state of relaxation. In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day. He recommends not practicing the relaxation response within two hours after eating a meal, because the digestive process may interfere with the technique. The relaxation response can also be elicited through other meditative and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation. No matter how the relaxation state is achieved, the physical and emotional consequences of stress can be reduced through regular practice.,Meditation is a simple technique that, if practiced for as few as 10 minutes each day, can help you control stress, decrease anxiety, improve cardiovascular health, and achieve a greater capacity for relaxation.Although meditation has been practiced for thousands of years, the meditative technique called the "relaxation response" was pioneered in the U. S. by Harvard doctor Herbert Benson in the 1970s.The technique has gained acceptance by physicians and therapists worldwide as a means of relieving symptoms of conditions ranging from cancer to AIDS.When our bodies are exposed to a sudden stress or threat, we respond with a characteristic "fight or flight" response.The ''adrenaline rush'' we experience is a result of the release of the hormones epinephrine (adrenaline) and norepinephrine.They cause an increase in blood pressure and pulse rate, faster breathing, and increased blood flow to the muscles.The relaxation response is a technique designed to elicit the opposite bodily reaction from the "fight or flight" response -- a state of deep relaxation in which our breathing, pulse rate, blood pressure, and metabolism are decreased.Training our bodies on a daily basis to achieve this state of relaxation can lead to enhanced mood, lower blood pressure, improved digestion, and a reduction of everyday stress.The relaxation response technique consists of the silent repetition of a word, sound, or phrase -- perhaps one that has special meaning to you -- while sitting quietly with a good posture and eyes closed for 10 to 20 minutes.This should be done in a quiet place free of distractions.Sitting is preferred to lying down in order to avoid falling asleep.Relax your muscles starting with the feet and progressing up to your face.Breathe though your nose in a free and natural way.During a meditation session, intruding worries or thoughts should be ignored or dismissed to the best of your ability by focusing on the sound, word or phrase.It's OK to open your eyes to look at a clock while you are practicing, but do not set an alarm.When you have finished, remain seated, first with your eyes closed and then with your eyes open, and gradually allow your thoughts to return to everyday reality.The technique requires some practice and may be difficult at first, but over time almost anyone can learn to achieve the desired state of relaxation.In his book The Relaxation Response (published in 1975 and reissued in 2000), Benson recommends practicing the technique once or twice a day.He recommends not practicing the relaxation response within two hours after eating a meal, because the digestive process may interfere with the technique.The relaxation response can also be elicited through other meditative and relaxation techniques such as mindfulness meditation.No matter how the relaxation state is achieved, the physical and emotional consequences of stress can be reduced through regular practice.

<human>: What causes anemia in people with diabetes? <bot>: Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: What are signs that I have anemia? <bot>: When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: Can kidney dialysis cause anemia? <bot>: If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: What are the symptoms of anemia? <bot>: When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: How do doctors test for anemia? <bot>: Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: How is anemia because of high blood pressure and high blood sugar treated? <bot>: High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: How is anemia because of a lack of erythropoietin treated? <bot>: If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: What can affect the absorption of iron if I'm anemic? <bot>: Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: How is anemia treated? <bot>: Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: How does anemia affect the kidneys in diabetes patients? <bot>: Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: How can some medications affect the blood of diabetics? <bot>: And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: Why does someone with diabetes need to get their blood checked regularly? <bot>: If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: Is it common for people with diabetes to have anemia? <bot>: If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: What will doctors test for if I'm anemic? <bot>: Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.,context:If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia. It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition. If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it. Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells. That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage. And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes. Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia. Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells. They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more. Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs. Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along. But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys. People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels. This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells. And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood. These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones. If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia. If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia. When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak. Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood. It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size. It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume. If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic. The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women. If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic. If you are, the next step is to find out why. Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements. For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein. If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone. You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis. It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke. Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion. You can lower your risk. Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat. Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day. Men need about 8. Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables. Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it. High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia. If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it. A good diet and regular exercise also help.,If you have diabetes, you'll need to have your blood checked regularly for anemia.It's common for people with diabetes to also end up with this blood condition.If you spot anemia early on, you can better manage the issues causing it.Usually, it happens because you don't have enough red blood cells.That can make you more likely to get certain diabetes complications, like eye and nerve damage.And it can worsen kidney, heart, and artery disease, which are more common in people with diabetes.Diabetes often leads to kidney damage, and failing kidneys can cause anemia.Healthy kidneys know when your body needs new red blood cells.They release a hormone called erythropoietin ( EPO), which signals your bone marrow to make more.Damaged kidneys don't send out enough EPO to keep up with your needs.Often, people don't realize they have kidney disease until it's very far along.But if you test positive for anemia, it can be an early sign of a problem with your kidneys.People with diabetes are more likely to have inflamed blood vessels.This can keep bone marrow from getting the signal they need to make more red blood cells.And some medications used to treat diabetes can drop your levels of the protein hemoglobin, which you need to carry oxygen through your blood.These drugs include ACE inhibitors, fibrates, metformin, and thiazolidinediones.If you take one of these, talk to your doctor about your risk for anemia.If you have kidney dialysis, you may have blood loss, and that can also cause anemia.When your brain and other organs don't get enough oxygen, you feel tired and weak.Other signs you may have anemia include: Shortness of breath Dizziness Headache Pale skin Chest pain Cold hands and feet Low body temperature Rapid heartbeat A complete blood count gives your doctor a good picture of what's going on in your blood.It counts your red and white blood cells and platelets, and it checks whether the red blood cells are a normal size.It also checks the levels of hemoglobin in your blood and your blood volume.If your hemoglobin levels are low, you may be anemic.The normal ranges are 14 to 17.5 for men and 12.3 to 15.3 for women.If you have a lower percentage of red blood cells in your blood, you may be anemic.If you are, the next step is to find out why.Your doctor may test you for: Iron deficiency Kidney failure Vitamin deficiency Internal bleeding Bone marrow health If you're anemic because your iron levels are low, it may help to eat iron-rich foods and take supplements.For people on kidney dialysis, it's best to get iron injected directly into a vein.If your kidneys don't make enough EPO -- the hormone that boosts the level of red blood cells you make -- your treatment may be a synthetic version of the hormone.You'll get an injection every week or two, or you'll have it during dialysis.It raises hemoglobin for most people, but it may also increase your chances of a heart attack or stroke.Your doctor needs to watch you closely while you're on it If your anemia is severe, you may need a blood transfusion.You can lower your risk.Make sure you get enough iron from the food you eat.Most adult women need about 18 milligrams every day.Men need about 8.Good sources of iron include: Iron-fortified breads and cereals Beans and lentils Oysters Liver Green leafy vegetables, especially spinach Tofu Red meat Fish Dried fruit, like prunes, raisins and apricots Your body absorbs iron better if you have it along with food that contains vitamin C, like fruits and vegetables.Coffee, tea, and calcium can make you absorb less of it.High blood pressure and high blood sugar cause the kidney damage that brings on anemia.If your doctor has prescribed you medication for either high blood pressure or high blood sugar, it's important that you take it.A good diet and regular exercise also help.

<human>: What will your doctor prescribe to treat pruritus? <bot>: Your doctor may also prescribe medication to treat pruritus, including antihistamines and topical steroids. Rarely, steroid pills and antibiotics may also be needed.,context: Pruritus simply means itching. It can be associated with a number of disorders, including dry skin, skin disease, pregnancy, and rarely, cancer. Anyone can get pruritus but certain groups of people are more susceptible to the condition, including: People with seasonal allergies, hay fever, asthma, and eczema People with diabetes People with HIV/ AIDS and various types of cancer, especially those with leukemia or lymphoma Pregnant women The elderly Finding the cause of the itching and treating any underlying skin disease is the first step in solving pruritus. If a drug reaction is suspected, switching to a different medication may be helpful to reduce the itching. However, most drug reactions have a rash along with itching. The best way to prevent pruritus is to take care of your skin. To protect skin: Use skin creams and lotions that moisturize your skin and prevent dryness. Use sunscreens regularly to prevent sunburns and skin damage. Use mild bath soap that won't irritate your skin. Take a bath or shower in warm -- not hot -- water. Avoid certain fabrics, such as wool and synthetics, that can make skin itch. Switch to cotton clothing and bed sheets. Since warm, dry air can make skin dry, keep the thermostat in your house down and use a humidifier. To relieve itching, place a cool washcloth or some ice over the area that itches, rather than scratching. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to treat pruritus, including antihistamines and topical steroids. Rarely, steroid pills and antibiotics may also be needed., Pruritus simply means itching.It can be associated with a number of disorders, including dry skin, skin disease, pregnancy, and rarely, cancer.Anyone can get pruritus but certain groups of people are more susceptible to the condition, including: People with seasonal allergies, hay fever, asthma, and eczema People with diabetes People with HIV/ AIDS and various types of cancer, especially those with leukemia or lymphoma Pregnant women The elderly Finding the cause of the itching and treating any underlying skin disease is the first step in solving pruritus.If a drug reaction is suspected, switching to a different medication may be helpful to reduce the itching.However, most drug reactions have a rash along with itching.The best way to prevent pruritus is to take care of your skin.To protect skin: Use skin creams and lotions that moisturize your skin and prevent dryness.Use sunscreens regularly to prevent sunburns and skin damage.Use mild bath soap that won't irritate your skin.Take a bath or shower in warm -- not hot -- water.Avoid certain fabrics, such as wool and synthetics, that can make skin itch.Switch to cotton clothing and bed sheets.Since warm, dry air can make skin dry, keep the thermostat in your house down and use a humidifier.To relieve itching, place a cool washcloth or some ice over the area that itches, rather than scratching.Your doctor may also prescribe medication to treat pruritus, including antihistamines and topical steroids.Rarely, steroid pills and antibiotics may also be needed.

<human>: How is pruritus treated? <bot>: Anyone can get pruritus but certain groups of people are more susceptible to the condition, including: People with seasonal allergies, hay fever, asthma, and eczema People with diabetes People with HIV/ AIDS and various types of cancer, especially those with leukemia or lymphoma Pregnant women The elderly Finding the cause of the itching and treating any underlying skin disease is the first step in solving pruritus. If a drug reaction is suspected, switching to a different medication may be helpful to reduce the itching. However, most drug reactions have a rash along with itching.,context: Pruritus simply means itching. It can be associated with a number of disorders, including dry skin, skin disease, pregnancy, and rarely, cancer. Anyone can get pruritus but certain groups of people are more susceptible to the condition, including: People with seasonal allergies, hay fever, asthma, and eczema People with diabetes People with HIV/ AIDS and various types of cancer, especially those with leukemia or lymphoma Pregnant women The elderly Finding the cause of the itching and treating any underlying skin disease is the first step in solving pruritus. If a drug reaction is suspected, switching to a different medication may be helpful to reduce the itching. However, most drug reactions have a rash along with itching. The best way to prevent pruritus is to take care of your skin. To protect skin: Use skin creams and lotions that moisturize your skin and prevent dryness. Use sunscreens regularly to prevent sunburns and skin damage. Use mild bath soap that won't irritate your skin. Take a bath or shower in warm -- not hot -- water. Avoid certain fabrics, such as wool and synthetics, that can make skin itch. Switch to cotton clothing and bed sheets. Since warm, dry air can make skin dry, keep the thermostat in your house down and use a humidifier. To relieve itching, place a cool washcloth or some ice over the area that itches, rather than scratching. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to treat pruritus, including antihistamines and topical steroids. Rarely, steroid pills and antibiotics may also be needed., Pruritus simply means itching.It can be associated with a number of disorders, including dry skin, skin disease, pregnancy, and rarely, cancer.Anyone can get pruritus but certain groups of people are more susceptible to the condition, including: People with seasonal allergies, hay fever, asthma, and eczema People with diabetes People with HIV/ AIDS and various types of cancer, especially those with leukemia or lymphoma Pregnant women The elderly Finding the cause of the itching and treating any underlying skin disease is the first step in solving pruritus.If a drug reaction is suspected, switching to a different medication may be helpful to reduce the itching.However, most drug reactions have a rash along with itching.The best way to prevent pruritus is to take care of your skin.To protect skin: Use skin creams and lotions that moisturize your skin and prevent dryness.Use sunscreens regularly to prevent sunburns and skin damage.Use mild bath soap that won't irritate your skin.Take a bath or shower in warm -- not hot -- water.Avoid certain fabrics, such as wool and synthetics, that can make skin itch.Switch to cotton clothing and bed sheets.Since warm, dry air can make skin dry, keep the thermostat in your house down and use a humidifier.To relieve itching, place a cool washcloth or some ice over the area that itches, rather than scratching.Your doctor may also prescribe medication to treat pruritus, including antihistamines and topical steroids.Rarely, steroid pills and antibiotics may also be needed.

<human>: What is the best way to prevent pruritus? <bot>: The best way to prevent pruritus is to take care of your skin. To protect skin: Use skin creams and lotions that moisturize your skin and prevent dryness. Use sunscreens regularly to prevent sunburns and skin damage. Use mild bath soap that won't irritate your skin. Take a bath or shower in warm -- not hot -- water. Avoid certain fabrics, such as wool and synthetics, that can make skin itch. Switch to cotton clothing and bed sheets. Since warm, dry air can make skin dry, keep the thermostat in your house down and use a humidifier. To relieve itching, place a cool washcloth or some ice over the area that itches, rather than scratching.,context: Pruritus simply means itching. It can be associated with a number of disorders, including dry skin, skin disease, pregnancy, and rarely, cancer. Anyone can get pruritus but certain groups of people are more susceptible to the condition, including: People with seasonal allergies, hay fever, asthma, and eczema People with diabetes People with HIV/ AIDS and various types of cancer, especially those with leukemia or lymphoma Pregnant women The elderly Finding the cause of the itching and treating any underlying skin disease is the first step in solving pruritus. If a drug reaction is suspected, switching to a different medication may be helpful to reduce the itching. However, most drug reactions have a rash along with itching. The best way to prevent pruritus is to take care of your skin. To protect skin: Use skin creams and lotions that moisturize your skin and prevent dryness. Use sunscreens regularly to prevent sunburns and skin damage. Use mild bath soap that won't irritate your skin. Take a bath or shower in warm -- not hot -- water. Avoid certain fabrics, such as wool and synthetics, that can make skin itch. Switch to cotton clothing and bed sheets. Since warm, dry air can make skin dry, keep the thermostat in your house down and use a humidifier. To relieve itching, place a cool washcloth or some ice over the area that itches, rather than scratching. Your doctor may also prescribe medication to treat pruritus, including antihistamines and topical steroids. Rarely, steroid pills and antibiotics may also be needed., Pruritus simply means itching.It can be associated with a number of disorders, including dry skin, skin disease, pregnancy, and rarely, cancer.Anyone can get pruritus but certain groups of people are more susceptible to the condition, including: People with seasonal allergies, hay fever, asthma, and eczema People with diabetes People with HIV/ AIDS and various types of cancer, especially those with leukemia or lymphoma Pregnant women The elderly Finding the cause of the itching and treating any underlying skin disease is the first step in solving pruritus.If a drug reaction is suspected, switching to a different medication may be helpful to reduce the itching.However, most drug reactions have a rash along with itching.The best way to prevent pruritus is to take care of your skin.To protect skin: Use skin creams and lotions that moisturize your skin and prevent dryness.Use sunscreens regularly to prevent sunburns and skin damage.Use mild bath soap that won't irritate your skin.Take a bath or shower in warm -- not hot -- water.Avoid certain fabrics, such as wool and synthetics, that can make skin itch.Switch to cotton clothing and bed sheets.Since warm, dry air can make skin dry, keep the thermostat in your house down and use a humidifier.To relieve itching, place a cool washcloth or some ice over the area that itches, rather than scratching.Your doctor may also prescribe medication to treat pruritus, including antihistamines and topical steroids.Rarely, steroid pills and antibiotics may also be needed.

<human>: What symptoms should I look out for if my blood pressure is extremely high? <bot>: If your blood pressure is extremely high, there may be certain symptoms to look out for, including: Severe headache Fatigue or confusion Vision problems Chest pain Difficulty breathing Irregular heartbeat Blood in the urine If you have any of these hypertension symptoms, see a doctor immediately.,context:In the vast majority of cases, there are no clear symptoms of high blood pressure (also known as hypertension), which can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and eye problems if untreated. The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to get your blood pressure checked on a regular basis. This is especially important if you have a close relative who has high blood pressure. If your blood pressure is extremely high, there may be certain symptoms to look out for, including: Severe headache Fatigue or confusion Vision problems Chest pain Difficulty breathing Irregular heartbeat Blood in the urine If you have any of these hypertension symptoms, see a doctor immediately. You could be having a hypertensive crisis that could lead to a heart attack or stroke. Your diastolic pressure -- the second, or bottom, number in a blood pressure reading -- suddenly shoots above 120 ,or your systolic pressure, the first number, is over 180; you may have malignant hypertension (also known as ''hypertensive emergency''), a life-threatening condition that can result in heart attack, stroke, kidney and eye problems. You are experiencing severe headaches, nausea, blurred vision, and confusion or memory loss; this may be a sign of malignant hypertension. You are pregnant and develop hypertension; symptoms may include severe headache and sudden swelling of the legs. High blood pressure during pregnancy can affect not only your own health, but also the health of your unborn child. You're taking drugs for high blood pressure and experiencing worrisome side effects, such as angioedema (swelling of your mouth or tongue), drowsiness, constipation, dizziness, or loss of sexual function; your doctor may prescribe a different anti-hypertensive drug.,In the vast majority of cases, there are no clear symptoms of high blood pressure (also known as hypertension), which can lead to heart disease, stroke, kidney failure and eye problems if untreated.The only way to find out if you have high blood pressure is to get your blood pressure checked on a regular basis.This is especially important if you have a close relative who has high blood pressure.If your blood pressure is extremely high, there may be certain symptoms to look out for, including: Severe headache Fatigue or confusion Vision problems Chest pain Difficulty breathing Irregular heartbeat Blood in the urine If you have any of these hypertension symptoms, see a doctor immediately.You could be having a hypertensive crisis that could lead to a heart attack or stroke.Your diastolic pressure -- the second, or bottom, number in a blood pressure reading -- suddenly shoots above 120 ,or your systolic pressure, the first number, is over 180; you may have malignant hypertension (also known as ''hypertensive emergency''), a life-threatening condition that can result in heart attack, stroke, kidney and eye problems.You are experiencing severe headaches, nausea, blurred vision, and confusion or memory loss; this may be a sign of malignant hypertension.You are pregnant and develop hypertension; symptoms may include severe headache and sudden swelling of the legs.High blood pressure during pregnancy can affect not only your own health, but also the health of your unborn child.You're taking drugs for high blood pressure and experiencing worrisome side effects, such as angioedema (swelling of your mouth or tongue), drowsiness, constipation, dizziness, or loss of sexual function; your doctor may prescribe a different anti-hypertensive drug.