Smoking during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of placentalabruption, a potentially life-threatening condition for both the mother and fetus.
With placental abruption, the placenta detaches from the uterus wall priorto birth, resulting in severe bleeding. Depending on the degree ofdetachment, up to 40 percent of affected infants die.
Dr. Cande V. Ananth, from the Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, NewBrunswick, New Jersey, and Dr. Sven Cnattingius, from the KarolinskaInstitute in Stockholm, investigated whether the effect of maternal smokingon abruption risk is restricted to the pregnancy during which the mothersmokes or whether subsequent pregnancies may be affected as well.
According to the findings, smoking during pregnancy raised the risk ofabruption during that pregnancy but seemed to have little impact on the riskin future pregnancies.
Regardless of smoking status, having one abruption greatly increased therisk of another abruption. In women with a prior abruption, the likelihoodof having another was increased 5.3-fold for nonsmokers and 10.9-fold forsmokers compared with women with no history of abruption.
These findings further reinforce the message that women should reducesmoking during pregnancy. [Am J of Epid]
Senin, 21 Juli 2008
Sabtu, 19 Juli 2008
Choosing a Physician
What is a family physician?
A family physician is a doctor who takes care of your whole family. Familyphysicians create caring relationships with patients and their families.They really get know their patients. They listen to them and help them makethe right health care decisions.
What do family physicians do?
Family physicians take care of the physical, mental, and emotional health oftheir patients and their families. They know how your family's healthhistory can affect you. They are trained to care for you through all thestages of your life.
Family physicians are trained in all areas of medicine. They diagnose andtreat the full range of problems people bring to their doctors. They knowwhen to treat you, and when to bring in another specialist you can trust.
What kind of training do family physicians have?
Family physicians must know the most current treatments and technologies.Only family physicians train in real practice settings, treating patients inthe office, the hospital, and at home. Family physicians also continue toeducate themselves. This allows them to apply the latest medicalbreakthroughs to the everyday care of their patients.
I don't have any health problems. Why do I need a family physician?
Family physicians are specially trained in preventive medicine. They believethat preventing a health problem is better than having to overcome one. Theyhelp you make the right health choices to keep you and your family healthy.
How do I find a family physician?
If you are looking for a family physician, try talking to your friends andfamily. Once you have the names of a few doctors, call their offices to getmore information. Some things that you should ask include:
A family physician is a doctor who takes care of your whole family. Familyphysicians create caring relationships with patients and their families.They really get know their patients. They listen to them and help them makethe right health care decisions.
What do family physicians do?
Family physicians take care of the physical, mental, and emotional health oftheir patients and their families. They know how your family's healthhistory can affect you. They are trained to care for you through all thestages of your life.
Family physicians are trained in all areas of medicine. They diagnose andtreat the full range of problems people bring to their doctors. They knowwhen to treat you, and when to bring in another specialist you can trust.
What kind of training do family physicians have?
Family physicians must know the most current treatments and technologies.Only family physicians train in real practice settings, treating patients inthe office, the hospital, and at home. Family physicians also continue toeducate themselves. This allows them to apply the latest medicalbreakthroughs to the everyday care of their patients.
I don't have any health problems. Why do I need a family physician?
Family physicians are specially trained in preventive medicine. They believethat preventing a health problem is better than having to overcome one. Theyhelp you make the right health choices to keep you and your family healthy.
How do I find a family physician?
If you are looking for a family physician, try talking to your friends andfamily. Once you have the names of a few doctors, call their offices to getmore information. Some things that you should ask include:
- Do they accept your insurance?
- What are the office hours?
- What hospital does the doctor use?
Once you find a doctor who meets your needs, schedule an appointment so thatyou can meet and talk to the doctor. During the appointment, make sure:
- You're comfortable talking to the doctor
- The doctor answers all your questions
- The doctor explains things so that you can understand
- You had enough time to ask all your questions
Remember, it takes time to build a relationship with your doctor. (AAFP)
Rabu, 16 Juli 2008
The Common Cold: What You Should Know
What is a cold?
A cold is a common illness that can be caused by many viruses. It can bepassed easily from one person to another.
If you have a cold, your throat may be sore or scratchy. After a couple ofdays, you may have a runny or stuffy nose and a cough that lasts about aweek. The mucus from your runny nose might be yellow or green for a fewdays. Some people have a fever and muscle aches in the first few days.Sometimes, you can have more serious symptoms like an ear infection, sinusinfection, or pneumonia.
Colds do not cause serious health problems for most people. But they cancause problems for people who smoke, people whose bodies can't fightinfection, and people who have lung problems.
What should I do if I have a cold?
Usually, you don't have to do anything. Most colds don't cause seriousproblems.
There is no medicine to cure a cold, but over-the-counter medicine mighthelp you feel better. These medicines may not be good for young children andolder adults. Some may have bad side effects. Ask your doctor what medicineis best for you or your child.
How do I know if I have a cold and not something worse?
If your symptoms are normal for a cold and you've been around people withcolds, you probably have a cold and not something more serious. See yourfamily doctor if you have:
A cold is a common illness that can be caused by many viruses. It can bepassed easily from one person to another.
If you have a cold, your throat may be sore or scratchy. After a couple ofdays, you may have a runny or stuffy nose and a cough that lasts about aweek. The mucus from your runny nose might be yellow or green for a fewdays. Some people have a fever and muscle aches in the first few days.Sometimes, you can have more serious symptoms like an ear infection, sinusinfection, or pneumonia.
Colds do not cause serious health problems for most people. But they cancause problems for people who smoke, people whose bodies can't fightinfection, and people who have lung problems.
What should I do if I have a cold?
Usually, you don't have to do anything. Most colds don't cause seriousproblems.
There is no medicine to cure a cold, but over-the-counter medicine mighthelp you feel better. These medicines may not be good for young children andolder adults. Some may have bad side effects. Ask your doctor what medicineis best for you or your child.
How do I know if I have a cold and not something worse?
If your symptoms are normal for a cold and you've been around people withcolds, you probably have a cold and not something more serious. See yourfamily doctor if you have:
- symptoms that are worse than those of a normal cold or that haven't gottenbetter in 10 days
- a high fever
- an earache that gets worse
- a headache or pain in your face or eyes
- a stiff neck
- shortness of breath
- sleepiness or confusion
- a health problem that makes it more likely that you will have problemswith a cold (for example: asthma and other lung diseases or a disease thataffects how your body fights infection) (AAFP)
Corneal Abrasions
What is a corneal abrasion?
A corneal abrasion is a cut or scratch on your cornea. The cornea is theclear, protective window at the front of your eye. It lies directly over thecolored part of your eye (called the iris).
What can cause a corneal abrasion?
Many things can cause a corneal abrasion, such as sand, dust, dirt, wood ormetal shavings that get in your eye. The cornea can also be scratched by afingernail, a tree branch or a contact lens. Rubbing your eyes very hard isanother way that an abrasion can occur. Sometimes, if a corneal abrasionhasn't healed properly, it can come back weeks or months after the originalinjury. In some people, the outer layers of the cornea are weak. Thesepeople may get a corneal abrasion for no apparent reason.
How do I know if I have a corneal abrasion?
The cornea is very sensitive, and a corneal abrasion is usually quitepainful. You may feel like you have sand or grit in your eye. You may noticetears or blurred vision, or your eye may look red. You may also notice thatlight hurts your eye. Some people get a headache when they have a cornealabrasion.
What do I do if I get something in my eye?
If you think something has gotten into your eye, first try to wash out theeye by splashing clean water into it. Your workplace may have an eye rinsestation for this purpose. Sometimes, blinking or pulling the upper eyelidover the lower eyelid may remove a particle from under the eyelid. Avoidrubbing your eye. If you or someone else notices something on the white partof your eye, use a soft tissue or cotton swab to gently lift it out of theeye. Don't try to remove something that is directly over the cornea--thismight cause more serious damage. If you can't remove the particle or ifthere doesn't seem to be anything in your eye, call your doctor.
What will my doctor do for a corneal abrasion?
Your doctor will examine your eye for any damage or particles that may betrapped under your eyelid. A yellow-orange dye may be placed on your eye tohelp your doctor see the abrasion. Your doctor will probably treat theabrasion with eye drops or ointment. Most small abrasions heal within one tothree days. You may need to return to your doctor for another exam the nextday.
What if I wear contact lenses?
If you wear contact lenses, you need to be especially careful with a cornealabrasion because you have a higher risk of infection. Your doctor may tellyou not to wear your contact lenses for a few days if you're treating youreye with medicine.
How can I prevent corneal abrasion?
Take the following steps to help prevent corneal abrasions:
A corneal abrasion is a cut or scratch on your cornea. The cornea is theclear, protective window at the front of your eye. It lies directly over thecolored part of your eye (called the iris).
What can cause a corneal abrasion?
Many things can cause a corneal abrasion, such as sand, dust, dirt, wood ormetal shavings that get in your eye. The cornea can also be scratched by afingernail, a tree branch or a contact lens. Rubbing your eyes very hard isanother way that an abrasion can occur. Sometimes, if a corneal abrasionhasn't healed properly, it can come back weeks or months after the originalinjury. In some people, the outer layers of the cornea are weak. Thesepeople may get a corneal abrasion for no apparent reason.
How do I know if I have a corneal abrasion?
The cornea is very sensitive, and a corneal abrasion is usually quitepainful. You may feel like you have sand or grit in your eye. You may noticetears or blurred vision, or your eye may look red. You may also notice thatlight hurts your eye. Some people get a headache when they have a cornealabrasion.
What do I do if I get something in my eye?
If you think something has gotten into your eye, first try to wash out theeye by splashing clean water into it. Your workplace may have an eye rinsestation for this purpose. Sometimes, blinking or pulling the upper eyelidover the lower eyelid may remove a particle from under the eyelid. Avoidrubbing your eye. If you or someone else notices something on the white partof your eye, use a soft tissue or cotton swab to gently lift it out of theeye. Don't try to remove something that is directly over the cornea--thismight cause more serious damage. If you can't remove the particle or ifthere doesn't seem to be anything in your eye, call your doctor.
What will my doctor do for a corneal abrasion?
Your doctor will examine your eye for any damage or particles that may betrapped under your eyelid. A yellow-orange dye may be placed on your eye tohelp your doctor see the abrasion. Your doctor will probably treat theabrasion with eye drops or ointment. Most small abrasions heal within one tothree days. You may need to return to your doctor for another exam the nextday.
What if I wear contact lenses?
If you wear contact lenses, you need to be especially careful with a cornealabrasion because you have a higher risk of infection. Your doctor may tellyou not to wear your contact lenses for a few days if you're treating youreye with medicine.
How can I prevent corneal abrasion?
Take the following steps to help prevent corneal abrasions:
- Wear protective eye goggles when you're around machinery that causesparticles of wood, metal or other materials to fly into the air (such as achainsaw or a sandblaster)
- Cut infants' and young children's fingernails short
- Trim low-hanging tree branches
- Use care when putting in contact lenses (AAFP)
Contraceptive Injections
Two contraceptive formulations are available as injections. Each is injectedby a health care practitioner into a muscle of the arm or buttocks, and eachis very effective as a contraceptive.
Medroxyprogesterone acetate, a progestin, is injected once every 3 months.Medroxyprogesterone acetate can completely disrupt the menstrual cycle.About one third of women using this contraceptive have no menstrual bleedingduring the 3 months after the first injection, and another third haveirregular bleeding and spotting for more than 11 days each month. After thiscontraceptive is used for a while, irregular bleeding occurs less often.
After 2 years, about 70% of the women have no bleeding at all. When theinjections are discontinued, a regular menstrual cycle resumes in about halfof the women within 6 months and in about three fourths within 1 year.
Fertility may not return for up to a year after injections are discontinued.Side effects include a slight weight gain and a temporary decrease in bonedensity. Bones usually return to their previous density after the injectionsare discontinued. Medroxyprogesterone acetate does not increase the risk ofdeveloping any cancer, including breast cancer. It greatly reduces the riskof developing uterine (endometrial) cancer. Interactions with other drugsare uncommon.
The other formulation is a once-a-month injection. It contains estrogen anda much smaller amount of medroxyprogesterone acetate than the injectionsgiven every 3 months. Consequently, bleeding usually occurs regularly about2 weeks after each injection is given, and bone density does not decrease.Because the dose of medroxyprogesterone acetate is lower, fertility returnsmuch more rapidly after the injections are discontinued. [Merck]
Medroxyprogesterone acetate, a progestin, is injected once every 3 months.Medroxyprogesterone acetate can completely disrupt the menstrual cycle.About one third of women using this contraceptive have no menstrual bleedingduring the 3 months after the first injection, and another third haveirregular bleeding and spotting for more than 11 days each month. After thiscontraceptive is used for a while, irregular bleeding occurs less often.
After 2 years, about 70% of the women have no bleeding at all. When theinjections are discontinued, a regular menstrual cycle resumes in about halfof the women within 6 months and in about three fourths within 1 year.
Fertility may not return for up to a year after injections are discontinued.Side effects include a slight weight gain and a temporary decrease in bonedensity. Bones usually return to their previous density after the injectionsare discontinued. Medroxyprogesterone acetate does not increase the risk ofdeveloping any cancer, including breast cancer. It greatly reduces the riskof developing uterine (endometrial) cancer. Interactions with other drugsare uncommon.
The other formulation is a once-a-month injection. It contains estrogen anda much smaller amount of medroxyprogesterone acetate than the injectionsgiven every 3 months. Consequently, bleeding usually occurs regularly about2 weeks after each injection is given, and bone density does not decrease.Because the dose of medroxyprogesterone acetate is lower, fertility returnsmuch more rapidly after the injections are discontinued. [Merck]
What's a Fart?
P.U.! What's that smell? How can your body make something so stinky?Farts - also called flatus (say: flay-tus) or intestinal (say:in-tes-tuh-null) gas - are made of, well, gas!
When you eat, you don't swallow just your food. You also swallow air, whichcontains gases like nitrogen (say: ny-truh-jen) and oxygen (say:ahk-sih-jen) . Small amounts of these gases travel through your digestivesystem as you digest your food. Other gases like hydrogen (say:hy-droh-jen) , carbon dioxide (say: kar-bon dy-ahk-side, the gas that makessoda fizzy), and methane (say: meth-ain) are made when food is broken downin the large intestine. All of these gases in the digestive system have toescape somehow, so they come out as farts!
Gases are also what can make farts smell bad. Tiny amounts of hydrogen,carbon dioxide, and methane combine with hydrogen sulfide (say: suhl-fide)and ammonia (say: uh-mow-nyuh) in the large intestine to give gas its smell.Phew!
All people fart sometimes, whether they live in France, the Fiji islands, orFresno, California! If you have a dog, you may have even been unlucky enoughto have heard (or smelled) Fido farting. Intestinal gas is totally normal,and it's very rare for farting to be a sign that something is wrong in the body.
If you want to be less farty, try cutting back on foods like beans, onions,and fried foods. These can release larger amounts of gas as they break downin your body. If you have a lot of gas after you eat ice cream, yogurt, ormilk, talk to your parent about it - your body may have a difficult timedigesting the natural sugar called lactose, which is found in dairy foods.And don't forget that farting can sometimes be your body's sign that it'stime to take a trip to the bathroom.
The bathroom is also a good place to go if you're feeling particularly gassybecause it's not polite to fart in social settings, like in class or at thedinner table (Yuck!). But don't worry if this happens accidentally. Justremember to say "excuse me!" [AAFP]
When you eat, you don't swallow just your food. You also swallow air, whichcontains gases like nitrogen (say: ny-truh-jen) and oxygen (say:ahk-sih-jen) . Small amounts of these gases travel through your digestivesystem as you digest your food. Other gases like hydrogen (say:hy-droh-jen) , carbon dioxide (say: kar-bon dy-ahk-side, the gas that makessoda fizzy), and methane (say: meth-ain) are made when food is broken downin the large intestine. All of these gases in the digestive system have toescape somehow, so they come out as farts!
Gases are also what can make farts smell bad. Tiny amounts of hydrogen,carbon dioxide, and methane combine with hydrogen sulfide (say: suhl-fide)and ammonia (say: uh-mow-nyuh) in the large intestine to give gas its smell.Phew!
All people fart sometimes, whether they live in France, the Fiji islands, orFresno, California! If you have a dog, you may have even been unlucky enoughto have heard (or smelled) Fido farting. Intestinal gas is totally normal,and it's very rare for farting to be a sign that something is wrong in the body.
If you want to be less farty, try cutting back on foods like beans, onions,and fried foods. These can release larger amounts of gas as they break downin your body. If you have a lot of gas after you eat ice cream, yogurt, ormilk, talk to your parent about it - your body may have a difficult timedigesting the natural sugar called lactose, which is found in dairy foods.And don't forget that farting can sometimes be your body's sign that it'stime to take a trip to the bathroom.
The bathroom is also a good place to go if you're feeling particularly gassybecause it's not polite to fart in social settings, like in class or at thedinner table (Yuck!). But don't worry if this happens accidentally. Justremember to say "excuse me!" [AAFP]
Sabtu, 12 Juli 2008
Sexually Transmitted Infections in Pregnancy
At the beginning of pregnancy, your family doctor will test you for sexuallytransmitted infections (STIs) that could hurt you or your baby. These testsare very important.
What tests will I have?
At the first visit, your family doctor may do a Pap smear to check forcervical cancer and signs of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Yourfamily doctor may also test for chlamydia (kluh-MID-ee- uh) and gonorrhea(gah-nuh-REE- uh). These tests may be repeated near the end of yourpregnancy.
Your blood will be tested for syphilis (SIFF-uh-liss) , hepatitis B, and HIV(the virus that causes AIDS). The family doctor will check your skin forsigns of herpes.
Why do I need these tests?
You can have many of these infections without having symptoms. Theseinfections can be passed on to your baby, and some of them can cause you togo into labor early.
What if I have an infection?
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be treated with antibiotics.Medicines can help keep your baby from getting herpes and HIV viruses. Ifyou have hepatitis B, your baby can be given medicine at birth to keep himor her from getting the disease.
Your sex partner may also need to be treated for some infections (forexample, chlamydia and gonorrhea) so you don't get the infection back. Youshould not have sex with your partner until your partner has been treated, too.
How can I protect myself?
The safest way is to have only one sex partner, and for your partner not tohave sex with anyone else. Condoms give you some protection. You shouldalways use condoms if you have more than one partner or if your partner mayhave other partners. [AAFP]
What tests will I have?
At the first visit, your family doctor may do a Pap smear to check forcervical cancer and signs of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Yourfamily doctor may also test for chlamydia (kluh-MID-ee- uh) and gonorrhea(gah-nuh-REE- uh). These tests may be repeated near the end of yourpregnancy.
Your blood will be tested for syphilis (SIFF-uh-liss) , hepatitis B, and HIV(the virus that causes AIDS). The family doctor will check your skin forsigns of herpes.
Why do I need these tests?
You can have many of these infections without having symptoms. Theseinfections can be passed on to your baby, and some of them can cause you togo into labor early.
What if I have an infection?
Chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis can be treated with antibiotics.Medicines can help keep your baby from getting herpes and HIV viruses. Ifyou have hepatitis B, your baby can be given medicine at birth to keep himor her from getting the disease.
Your sex partner may also need to be treated for some infections (forexample, chlamydia and gonorrhea) so you don't get the infection back. Youshould not have sex with your partner until your partner has been treated, too.
How can I protect myself?
The safest way is to have only one sex partner, and for your partner not tohave sex with anyone else. Condoms give you some protection. You shouldalways use condoms if you have more than one partner or if your partner mayhave other partners. [AAFP]
Jumat, 11 Juli 2008
Shortness of Breath
What is shortness of breath?
When you are short of breath, you may feel like you can't get enough air oryour chest may feel tight. Sometimes the feeling is worse when you arephysically active or when you lie down flat. You may have other symptomssuch as a cough, chest pains or fever. If you have any of these problems,tell your doctor.
What could be causing me to be short of breath?
Shortness of breath can be caused by many things, including the following:
What tests will my doctor perform?
Your doctor can help find the cause of your breathing problem by asking youquestions and doing a physical exam. You doctor also may order some tests.To find the cause of your shortness of breath, your doctor may order a chestx-ray or an electrocardiogram (also called an ECG). During this test, yourdoctor will have you lie down so your heart can be monitored. The ECGmachine makes a picture, or tracing, that shows your heart's electricalsignals. Your doctor may measure your breathing and the oxygen level in yourblood. You also may need to have a blood test .
What can I do to help my breathing?
If you smoke, you need to stop. Ask your doctor for help. Also, avoid strongsmells and breathing chemicals that can bother your lungs. (AAFP)
When you are short of breath, you may feel like you can't get enough air oryour chest may feel tight. Sometimes the feeling is worse when you arephysically active or when you lie down flat. You may have other symptomssuch as a cough, chest pains or fever. If you have any of these problems,tell your doctor.
What could be causing me to be short of breath?
Shortness of breath can be caused by many things, including the following:
- Asthma
- Other lung diseases, including emphysema (say: "em-fa-see-ma" ), a lungdisease that is caused by smoking
- Heart failure that causes fluid to collect in the lungs
- Panic attacks
What tests will my doctor perform?
Your doctor can help find the cause of your breathing problem by asking youquestions and doing a physical exam. You doctor also may order some tests.To find the cause of your shortness of breath, your doctor may order a chestx-ray or an electrocardiogram (also called an ECG). During this test, yourdoctor will have you lie down so your heart can be monitored. The ECGmachine makes a picture, or tracing, that shows your heart's electricalsignals. Your doctor may measure your breathing and the oxygen level in yourblood. You also may need to have a blood test .
What can I do to help my breathing?
If you smoke, you need to stop. Ask your doctor for help. Also, avoid strongsmells and breathing chemicals that can bother your lungs. (AAFP)
Alternative Therapies Worsen Breast Cancer Outcomes
By: A.D. Walling
Background
About 84 percent of patients with breast cancer use some form ofalternative or complementary therapy. The most common of these therapies aredietary modalities (27 percent of patients), spiritual healing (24 percent),herbal remedies (13 percent), physical techniques (14 percent), andpsychological methods (3 percent).
Use of complementary and alternativetherapies in patients with breast cancer is associated with younger age,higher education level, and history of chemotherapy. Despite theirwidespread use, there are no published data on cancer outcomes followingalternative or complementary therapies. Chang and colleagues studied therecords of women who refused or delayed standard therapy for breast cancerto assess the impact of treatment choices on prognosis.
The Study
Data were available on 33 patients with an average age of 53.2years. Of the six women who refused surgery, five progressed to stage IVdisease (one of whom died) and one remained at stage II during a median14-month follow-up period. Nine patients with stage I or II diseasesubstituted alternative therapy for chemotherapy or hormonal therapy. Eightof these patients remained recurrence-free during a median 22-monthfollow-up period.
Results
The authors calculated mean 10-year mortality rates for patientswho eventually used standard therapy and for patients who substitutedalternative therapy for standard therapy. For patients who delayed surgery,the 10-year relative risk of mortality associated with alternative therapywas estimated at 1.58. For those who refused chemotherapy, the relative riskwas 1.54.
Conclusion
The authors conclude that, despite the many assumptions in thestudy, the results indicate that substituting alternative therapy forstandard therapy adversely affects outcomes in patients with breast cancer.(AAFP)
Background
About 84 percent of patients with breast cancer use some form ofalternative or complementary therapy. The most common of these therapies aredietary modalities (27 percent of patients), spiritual healing (24 percent),herbal remedies (13 percent), physical techniques (14 percent), andpsychological methods (3 percent).
Use of complementary and alternativetherapies in patients with breast cancer is associated with younger age,higher education level, and history of chemotherapy. Despite theirwidespread use, there are no published data on cancer outcomes followingalternative or complementary therapies. Chang and colleagues studied therecords of women who refused or delayed standard therapy for breast cancerto assess the impact of treatment choices on prognosis.
The Study
Data were available on 33 patients with an average age of 53.2years. Of the six women who refused surgery, five progressed to stage IVdisease (one of whom died) and one remained at stage II during a median14-month follow-up period. Nine patients with stage I or II diseasesubstituted alternative therapy for chemotherapy or hormonal therapy. Eightof these patients remained recurrence-free during a median 22-monthfollow-up period.
Results
The authors calculated mean 10-year mortality rates for patientswho eventually used standard therapy and for patients who substitutedalternative therapy for standard therapy. For patients who delayed surgery,the 10-year relative risk of mortality associated with alternative therapywas estimated at 1.58. For those who refused chemotherapy, the relative riskwas 1.54.
Conclusion
The authors conclude that, despite the many assumptions in thestudy, the results indicate that substituting alternative therapy forstandard therapy adversely affects outcomes in patients with breast cancer.(AAFP)
Rabu, 09 Juli 2008
Ovarian Cyst
What Is an Ovarian Cyst?
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac in or on an ovary. Such cysts arerelatively common. Most are noncancerous and disappear on their own.Cancerous cysts are more likely to occur in women older than 40.
Most noncancerous ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms. However, some causepressure, aching, or a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen. Pain may be feltduring sexual intercourse. If a cyst ruptures or becomes twisted, severestabbing pain is felt in the abdomen. The pain may be accompanied by nauseaand fever. Some cysts produce hormones that affect menstrual periods. As aresult, periods may be irregular or heavier than normal. In postmenopausalwomen, such cysts may cause vaginal bleeding. Women who have any of thesesymptoms should see a doctor.
Diagnosis begins with a pelvic examination. Ultrasonography or computedtomography (CT) may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. If the cystappears to be noncancerous, a woman may be asked to return periodically forpelvic examinations as long as the cyst remains. If the cyst could becancerous, the ovaries may be examined through a laparoscope, insertedthrough a small incision just below the navel. Blood tests can help confirmor rule out cancer.
For noncancerous cysts, no treatment is necessary. But if a cyst is largerthan about 2 inches (5 centimeters) and persists or if cancer cannot beruled out, the cyst may be removed. Sometimes the affected ovary is alsoremoved. Cancerous cysts plus the affected ovary and fallopian tube areremoved. (Merck)
An ovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac in or on an ovary. Such cysts arerelatively common. Most are noncancerous and disappear on their own.Cancerous cysts are more likely to occur in women older than 40.
Most noncancerous ovarian cysts do not cause symptoms. However, some causepressure, aching, or a feeling of heaviness in the abdomen. Pain may be feltduring sexual intercourse. If a cyst ruptures or becomes twisted, severestabbing pain is felt in the abdomen. The pain may be accompanied by nauseaand fever. Some cysts produce hormones that affect menstrual periods. As aresult, periods may be irregular or heavier than normal. In postmenopausalwomen, such cysts may cause vaginal bleeding. Women who have any of thesesymptoms should see a doctor.
Diagnosis begins with a pelvic examination. Ultrasonography or computedtomography (CT) may be performed to confirm the diagnosis. If the cystappears to be noncancerous, a woman may be asked to return periodically forpelvic examinations as long as the cyst remains. If the cyst could becancerous, the ovaries may be examined through a laparoscope, insertedthrough a small incision just below the navel. Blood tests can help confirmor rule out cancer.
For noncancerous cysts, no treatment is necessary. But if a cyst is largerthan about 2 inches (5 centimeters) and persists or if cancer cannot beruled out, the cyst may be removed. Sometimes the affected ovary is alsoremoved. Cancerous cysts plus the affected ovary and fallopian tube areremoved. (Merck)
Selasa, 08 Juli 2008
Saving Your Skin from Sun Damage
Why is the sun so bad for my skin?
The sun's rays, which are called ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays (UVAand UVB rays), damage your skin. This leads to early wrinkles, skin cancer,and other skin problems.
Being in the sun often can lead to skin cancer over time, even if you don'tget sunburned. A suntan is the body's way to protect itself from the sun'sharmful rays.
Are tanning booths safer?
No. Tanning booths use ultraviolet rays. The makers of some tanning boothsmay say that they use "harmless" UVA rays. But both UVA and UVB rays causeskin damage. UVA rays take longer than UVB rays to damage the skin, but theygo deeper into the skin than UVB rays.
Where is skin cancer most likely to occur?
Most skin cancers occur on parts of the body that are exposed to the sunrepeatedly. These areas include the head, neck, face, tips of the ears,hands, forearms, shoulders, back, chests of men, and the back and lower legsof women.
What are the risk factors for getting skin cancer?
You have a higher risk of getting skin cancer if you:
The key to preventing skin cancer is to stay out of the sun and to not usesunlamps. If you are going to be in the sun, you should wear clothes madefrom tightly woven cloth so the sun's rays can't get to your skin. You alsoshould stay in the shade when you can. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protectyour face, neck, and ears.
If you can't stay out of the sun or wear the right kind of clothing, youshould use sunscreen to protect your skin. But don't think that you arecompletely safe from the sun just because you are wearing sunscreen.
How should I use sunscreen?
Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more. Put thesunscreen everywhere the sun's rays might touch you, including your ears,the back of your neck, and bald areas on your scalp. Put more on every twoto three hours and after sweating or swimming. (AAFP)
The sun's rays, which are called ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays (UVAand UVB rays), damage your skin. This leads to early wrinkles, skin cancer,and other skin problems.
Being in the sun often can lead to skin cancer over time, even if you don'tget sunburned. A suntan is the body's way to protect itself from the sun'sharmful rays.
Are tanning booths safer?
No. Tanning booths use ultraviolet rays. The makers of some tanning boothsmay say that they use "harmless" UVA rays. But both UVA and UVB rays causeskin damage. UVA rays take longer than UVB rays to damage the skin, but theygo deeper into the skin than UVB rays.
Where is skin cancer most likely to occur?
Most skin cancers occur on parts of the body that are exposed to the sunrepeatedly. These areas include the head, neck, face, tips of the ears,hands, forearms, shoulders, back, chests of men, and the back and lower legsof women.
What are the risk factors for getting skin cancer?
You have a higher risk of getting skin cancer if you:
- Have fair skin and red or blond hair
- Have light-colored eyes
- Sunburn easily
- Have many moles, freckles, or birthmarks
- Work or play outside
- Were in the sun a lot as a child
- Have had a serious sunburn
- Have family members with skin cancer
- Tan in the sun or with a sunlamp or have tanned that way in the past
The key to preventing skin cancer is to stay out of the sun and to not usesunlamps. If you are going to be in the sun, you should wear clothes madefrom tightly woven cloth so the sun's rays can't get to your skin. You alsoshould stay in the shade when you can. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protectyour face, neck, and ears.
Remember that clouds and water won't protect you from the sun's rays. Thesun's rays can also reflect off water, snow, and white sand.
Should I use sunscreen?If you can't stay out of the sun or wear the right kind of clothing, youshould use sunscreen to protect your skin. But don't think that you arecompletely safe from the sun just because you are wearing sunscreen.
How should I use sunscreen?
Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more. Put thesunscreen everywhere the sun's rays might touch you, including your ears,the back of your neck, and bald areas on your scalp. Put more on every twoto three hours and after sweating or swimming. (AAFP)
Amenorrhea: What You Should Know
What is amenorrhea?
Amenorrhea (say: ay-men-or-ee- uh) is when you don't have menstrual periods.You can have primary or secondary amenorrhea. Primary amenorrhea is when youhaven't had a period by 14 to 16 years of age. Secondary amenorrhea is whenyou have had normal periods but then you don't have one for 3 or more monthsin a row. You should see your doctor if you think you have amenorrhea.
What causes amenorrhea?
You can have amenorrhea if any of your reproductive organs aren't workingright or if you don't have the right amount of certain hormones in yourbody. If you are pregnant you will have amenorrhea during the pregnancy.
Your doctor may ask you questions about your health and your family's healthand examine you. Your doctor may need to do special tests to find out whyyou aren't having periods.
How is amenorrhea treated?
It depends on what's causing your amenorrhea. It may be as simple aschanging your diet and exercise program. You may need birth control pills orother medicines. Rarely, surgery is needed. Sometimes, the periods don'treturn.
How can I protect myself?
Amenorrhea (say: ay-men-or-ee- uh) is when you don't have menstrual periods.You can have primary or secondary amenorrhea. Primary amenorrhea is when youhaven't had a period by 14 to 16 years of age. Secondary amenorrhea is whenyou have had normal periods but then you don't have one for 3 or more monthsin a row. You should see your doctor if you think you have amenorrhea.
What causes amenorrhea?
You can have amenorrhea if any of your reproductive organs aren't workingright or if you don't have the right amount of certain hormones in yourbody. If you are pregnant you will have amenorrhea during the pregnancy.
Your doctor may ask you questions about your health and your family's healthand examine you. Your doctor may need to do special tests to find out whyyou aren't having periods.
How is amenorrhea treated?
It depends on what's causing your amenorrhea. It may be as simple aschanging your diet and exercise program. You may need birth control pills orother medicines. Rarely, surgery is needed. Sometimes, the periods don'treturn.
How can I protect myself?
- Talk to your doctor if you have missed 3 or more periods in a row. If youcould be pregnant, have a pregnancy test done.
- If your periods aren't the same every month, write down when they start andhow long they last and give this information to your doctor.
- Maintain a healthy weight with diet and exercise.
- Find out if you have any family members with similar problems with theirperiods.
- Remember that it is still possible to get pregnant even if you aren't havingregular periods every month. (AAFP)
Senin, 07 Juli 2008
Constipation
What is constipation?
Constipation is when you have trouble having bowel movements. Your stoolsmay be very hard, making them so difficult to pass that you have to strain.Or you may feel like you still need to have a bowel movement even afteryou've had one.
How often should I have a bowel movement?
Not everyone has bowel movements once a day. Don't believe ads that say youmust have a daily bowel movement to be "regular." A normal range isgenerally 3 times a day to 3 times a week. You may be getting constipated ifyou begin to have bowel movements much less often than you usually do.
Tips on preventing constipation
As the food you eat passes through your digestive tract, your body takesnutrients and water from the food. This process creates a stool, which ismoved through your intestines with muscle contractions (squeezing motions).
A number of things can affect this process. These include not drinkingenough fluids, not being active enough, not eating enough fiber, takingcertain drugs, not going to the bathroom when you have the urge to have abowel movement and regularly using laxatives. Any of these things can causethe stools to move more slowly through your intestines, leading toconstipation.
How is constipation treated?
The main thing in treating constipation is to be sure you're eating enoughfiber and drinking enough fluids. This helps your stools move through yourintestines by increasing the bulk of your stools and making your stoolssofter. Increasing how much you exercise will also help.
Talk to your family doctor if:
Eat plenty of fiber. Two to 4 servings of fruits and 3 to 5 servings ofvegetables a day is ideal. Add extra fiber to your diet by eating cerealsthat contain bran or by adding bran as a topping on your fruit or cereal.
If you are adding fiber to your diet, start slowly and gradually increasethe amount. This will help reduce gas and bloating. Make sure to drinkplenty of water too.
Foods rich in fiber
Laxatives should usually be avoided. They aren't meant for long-term use. Anexception to this is bulk-forming laxatives.
Bulk-forming laxatives work naturally to add bulk and water to your stoolsso that they can pass more easily through your intestines. Bulk-forminglaxatives can be used every day. They include oat bran, psyllium,polycarbophil and methylcellulose.
How are bulk-forming laxatives used?
You must use bulk-forming laxatives daily for them to work. Follow thedirections on the label. Start slowly and drink plenty of fluids. Graduallyincrease how much you use every 3 to 5 days (as you get used to it) untilyou get the effect you want.
You can help bulk-forming laxatives taste better by mixing them with fruitjuice.
Do bulk-forming laxatives have side effects?
You may notice some bloating, gas or cramping at first, especially if youstart taking too much or increase the amount you're using too quickly. Thesesymptoms should go away in a few weeks or less.
Is mineral oil a good laxative?
Mineral oil should generally be used only when your doctor recommends it,such as if you've just had surgery and shouldn't strain to have a bowelmovement. Mineral oil shouldn't be used regularly. If it is used regularly,it can cause deficiencies of vitamins A, D, E and K.
Should I try enemas?
Enemas aren't usually needed. Many people use enemas too much. It's betterto let your body work more naturally.
What if I've been using enemas or laxatives for a long time?
You may have to retrain your body to go without laxatives or enemas ifyou've been using them for a long time. This means eating plenty of fiberand using a bulk-forming laxative, drinking plenty of water, exercising, andlearning to give yourself time to have a bowel movement.
If you've used laxatives and enemas for a long time, your family doctor maysuggest that you gradually reduce the use of them to give your body a chanceto return to normal. Be patient--it may take many months for your bowels toget back to normal if you've been using laxatives or enemas regularly. Talkwith your family doctor about any concerns you have. (AAFP)
Constipation is when you have trouble having bowel movements. Your stoolsmay be very hard, making them so difficult to pass that you have to strain.Or you may feel like you still need to have a bowel movement even afteryou've had one.
How often should I have a bowel movement?
Not everyone has bowel movements once a day. Don't believe ads that say youmust have a daily bowel movement to be "regular." A normal range isgenerally 3 times a day to 3 times a week. You may be getting constipated ifyou begin to have bowel movements much less often than you usually do.
Tips on preventing constipation
- Don't resist the urge to have a bowel movement.
- Set aside time to have a bowel movement. A good time may be afterbreakfast or any other meal.
- Eat more fiber.
- Drink plenty of fluids--at least 8 glasses a day. Fluids can includewater, juices, soup, tea and other drinks.
- Don't take laxatives too often.
- Exercise or move around more.
As the food you eat passes through your digestive tract, your body takesnutrients and water from the food. This process creates a stool, which ismoved through your intestines with muscle contractions (squeezing motions).
A number of things can affect this process. These include not drinkingenough fluids, not being active enough, not eating enough fiber, takingcertain drugs, not going to the bathroom when you have the urge to have abowel movement and regularly using laxatives. Any of these things can causethe stools to move more slowly through your intestines, leading toconstipation.
How is constipation treated?
The main thing in treating constipation is to be sure you're eating enoughfiber and drinking enough fluids. This helps your stools move through yourintestines by increasing the bulk of your stools and making your stoolssofter. Increasing how much you exercise will also help.
Talk to your family doctor if:
- Constipation is new and unusual for you
- You have constipation for 3 weeks or more
- You're in pain
- You notice any blood in your stools
Eat plenty of fiber. Two to 4 servings of fruits and 3 to 5 servings ofvegetables a day is ideal. Add extra fiber to your diet by eating cerealsthat contain bran or by adding bran as a topping on your fruit or cereal.
If you are adding fiber to your diet, start slowly and gradually increasethe amount. This will help reduce gas and bloating. Make sure to drinkplenty of water too.
Foods rich in fiber
- Unprocessed wheat bran
- Unrefined breakfast cereals
- Whole wheat and rye flours
- Grainy breads, such as whole wheat, rye or pumpernickel
- Fresh fruits
- Dried fruits, such as prunes, apricots and figs
- Vegetables
- Legumes, such as chickpeas, baked beans and lima beans
Laxatives should usually be avoided. They aren't meant for long-term use. Anexception to this is bulk-forming laxatives.
Bulk-forming laxatives work naturally to add bulk and water to your stoolsso that they can pass more easily through your intestines. Bulk-forminglaxatives can be used every day. They include oat bran, psyllium,polycarbophil and methylcellulose.
How are bulk-forming laxatives used?
You must use bulk-forming laxatives daily for them to work. Follow thedirections on the label. Start slowly and drink plenty of fluids. Graduallyincrease how much you use every 3 to 5 days (as you get used to it) untilyou get the effect you want.
You can help bulk-forming laxatives taste better by mixing them with fruitjuice.
Do bulk-forming laxatives have side effects?
You may notice some bloating, gas or cramping at first, especially if youstart taking too much or increase the amount you're using too quickly. Thesesymptoms should go away in a few weeks or less.
Is mineral oil a good laxative?
Mineral oil should generally be used only when your doctor recommends it,such as if you've just had surgery and shouldn't strain to have a bowelmovement. Mineral oil shouldn't be used regularly. If it is used regularly,it can cause deficiencies of vitamins A, D, E and K.
Should I try enemas?
Enemas aren't usually needed. Many people use enemas too much. It's betterto let your body work more naturally.
What if I've been using enemas or laxatives for a long time?
You may have to retrain your body to go without laxatives or enemas ifyou've been using them for a long time. This means eating plenty of fiberand using a bulk-forming laxative, drinking plenty of water, exercising, andlearning to give yourself time to have a bowel movement.
If you've used laxatives and enemas for a long time, your family doctor maysuggest that you gradually reduce the use of them to give your body a chanceto return to normal. Be patient--it may take many months for your bowels toget back to normal if you've been using laxatives or enemas regularly. Talkwith your family doctor about any concerns you have. (AAFP)
Kamis, 03 Juli 2008
Anemia
What is anemia?
Anemia occurs when your blood doesn't have enough hemoglobin. Hemoglobin isa protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to therest of your body. A common cause of anemia is not having enough iron. (Yourbody needs iron to make hemoglobin.)
Symptoms of anemia
A number of things can cause you to be low in iron:
Lack of iron in the diet. This is mostly a problem for children and youngwomen. Children who drink a lot of milk and don't eat iron-rich foods andyoung women who follow "fad" diets may be at risk for iron deficiency.
Growth spurts. Children under age 3 are growing so fast that their bodiesmay have a hard time keeping up with the amount of iron they need.
Pregnancy. Women who are pregnant or who are breast feeding need 2½ times asmuch iron as men. That's why pregnant women may be tested for anemia and whythey need to eat more iron-rich foods or take a daily iron pill.
Blood loss. This is a common reason for iron deficiency anemia in adults.
Heavy periods may cause anemia. Blood loss can also be caused by internalbleeding, usually in the digestive tract. A stomach ulcer, ulcerativecolitis, cancer, or taking aspirin or similar medicine for a long time cancause bleeding in your stomach or intestines. That's why it's important tofind the reason for a low iron level.
How is anemia diagnosed?
Talk to your doctor if you think you might have anemia. A blood test willprobably be done to diagnose anemia. Other tests may be needed to find outwhat's causing the anemia.
Can anemia be prevented?
Some types can be prevented, such as those caused by diet. You can helpprevent this type of anemia by making sure you eat foods that have iron. Seebelow for a list of iron-rich foods.
Foods high in iron:
It depends on what's causing the anemia. For example, if anemia results fromlosing too much blood, the cause of the blood loss will need to be treated.If anemia results from a diet that's low in iron, your doctor may recommenda change in your diet or iron pills.
How can I increase the iron in my diet?
Your body best absorbs the iron in meats. Eating a small amount of meatalong with other sources of iron, such as certain vegetables, can help youget even more iron out of these foods. Taking vitamin C pills or eatingfoods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits or juice, at the same timeyou eat iron-rich foods or take your iron pill can help your body absorb theiron better.
Some foods block the absorption of iron. These include coffee, tea, eggyolks, milk, fiber and soy protein. Try to avoid these when you're eatingfood high in iron.
Can iron pills cause problems?
Iron pills can cause stomach upset, heartburn and constipation. Be sure totell your doctor about any discomfort you notice. The tips below may helpreduce this discomfort.
Tips on taking iron pills
Anemia occurs when your blood doesn't have enough hemoglobin. Hemoglobin isa protein in your red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to therest of your body. A common cause of anemia is not having enough iron. (Yourbody needs iron to make hemoglobin.)
Symptoms of anemia
- Often, no symptoms
- Paleness
- Feeling tired
- Unusual shortness of breath during exercise
- Fast heartbeat
- Cold hands and feet
- Brittle nails
- Headaches
A number of things can cause you to be low in iron:
Lack of iron in the diet. This is mostly a problem for children and youngwomen. Children who drink a lot of milk and don't eat iron-rich foods andyoung women who follow "fad" diets may be at risk for iron deficiency.
Growth spurts. Children under age 3 are growing so fast that their bodiesmay have a hard time keeping up with the amount of iron they need.
Pregnancy. Women who are pregnant or who are breast feeding need 2½ times asmuch iron as men. That's why pregnant women may be tested for anemia and whythey need to eat more iron-rich foods or take a daily iron pill.
Blood loss. This is a common reason for iron deficiency anemia in adults.
Heavy periods may cause anemia. Blood loss can also be caused by internalbleeding, usually in the digestive tract. A stomach ulcer, ulcerativecolitis, cancer, or taking aspirin or similar medicine for a long time cancause bleeding in your stomach or intestines. That's why it's important tofind the reason for a low iron level.
How is anemia diagnosed?
Talk to your doctor if you think you might have anemia. A blood test willprobably be done to diagnose anemia. Other tests may be needed to find outwhat's causing the anemia.
Can anemia be prevented?
Some types can be prevented, such as those caused by diet. You can helpprevent this type of anemia by making sure you eat foods that have iron. Seebelow for a list of iron-rich foods.
Foods high in iron:
- Liver and other meats
- Seafood
- Dried fruits like apricots, prunes and raisins
- Nuts
- Beans, especially lima beans
- Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach and broccoli
- Blackstrap molasses
- Whole grains
- Iron-fortified breads and cereals (check the label)
It depends on what's causing the anemia. For example, if anemia results fromlosing too much blood, the cause of the blood loss will need to be treated.If anemia results from a diet that's low in iron, your doctor may recommenda change in your diet or iron pills.
How can I increase the iron in my diet?
Your body best absorbs the iron in meats. Eating a small amount of meatalong with other sources of iron, such as certain vegetables, can help youget even more iron out of these foods. Taking vitamin C pills or eatingfoods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits or juice, at the same timeyou eat iron-rich foods or take your iron pill can help your body absorb theiron better.
Some foods block the absorption of iron. These include coffee, tea, eggyolks, milk, fiber and soy protein. Try to avoid these when you're eatingfood high in iron.
Can iron pills cause problems?
Iron pills can cause stomach upset, heartburn and constipation. Be sure totell your doctor about any discomfort you notice. The tips below may helpreduce this discomfort.
Tips on taking iron pills
- Take the pills with food.
- Start slowly. Try taking 1 pill a day for 3 to 5 days, then 2 pills a dayuntil you aren't bothered by that amount. Increase the number of pills untilyou're taking the amount your doctor recommended.
- Increase the fiber in your diet if you have constipation. This is worthtrying, even though fiber may get in the way of how well your body canabsorb iron. You'll still be able to absorb some iron, and it's better thannot taking any iron if you need it.
- Don't take iron pills at bedtime if they upset your stomach.* If one type of iron pill causes problems, talk to your doctor about tryinga different formula or brand. (AAFP)
Skin Problems: Dry, Itchy Skin
How can I keep my skin from getting dry?
Dry air can cause your skin to become dry and itchy. In your home, use ahumidifier to put moisture in the air during the winter and in dry weather.
How do I treat dry skin?
Moisturizers work well to treat dry skin. Choose a moisturizer that ishypoallergenic (it should say so on the label). The best moisturizers arealso the most "gooey." Ointments (or oils) are best, followed by creams, andthen lotions. Petroleum jelly is an excellent skin lubricant, but it can bemessy to use.
Put a moisturizer on your skin 3 or 4 times during the day. Put moisturizeron right after you wash or bathe. This will hold in the moisture from thewater. If you have very dry hands, put petroleum jelly on them before you goto bed at night and sleep with your hands in cotton-lined gloves.
Changing your bathing habits can also help. If you bathe too often, it maydry out your skin. Try to take short, lukewarm baths or showers. Oatmealbaths may be soothing to dry skin. After a bath or shower, pat your skin dryand put a moisturizer on your skin right away. Use a mild soap every day toclean your genital area and under your arms. Only clean other parts of yourbody 2 or 3 times a week with soap.
Some people use bath oils to help make their skin less dry. However, theseoils can be dangerous because they make your tub slippery. To avoid slippingand falling, put the oil on your skin after you get out of the bathtub.Plain baby oil works well.
When should I see my doctor because of itchy skin?
Dry, irritated skin is more likely to get infected. Infected skin is red,warm and swollen. It may ooze fluid. You may need antibiotics to get rid ofthis kind of infection.
Severe itching or pain, especially in older adults, sometimes is caused by aserious medical problem. Call your doctor if you are an older person who hassevere itching or pain that doesn't have an obvious cause and doesn't getbetter within 2 weeks.
What medicines treat itching?
A moisturizer might be all you need to relieve itching. If a moisturizerdoes not help enough, you could try using 1 percent hydrocortisone steroidskin cream for a week. If this is not helpful, your doctor may prescribestronger steroids or antihistamine pills.
If you use a steroid cream to treat itching, you should not use the medicinefor longer than 1 to 2 weeks. Be very careful when you put a steroid creamon your face or genital area. Steroid creams may make your skin get verythin and may cause other skin problems. Be sure to talk with your doctor ifyou are using a steroid cream or ointment to treat your itching. (AAFP)
Dry air can cause your skin to become dry and itchy. In your home, use ahumidifier to put moisture in the air during the winter and in dry weather.
How do I treat dry skin?
Moisturizers work well to treat dry skin. Choose a moisturizer that ishypoallergenic (it should say so on the label). The best moisturizers arealso the most "gooey." Ointments (or oils) are best, followed by creams, andthen lotions. Petroleum jelly is an excellent skin lubricant, but it can bemessy to use.
Put a moisturizer on your skin 3 or 4 times during the day. Put moisturizeron right after you wash or bathe. This will hold in the moisture from thewater. If you have very dry hands, put petroleum jelly on them before you goto bed at night and sleep with your hands in cotton-lined gloves.
Changing your bathing habits can also help. If you bathe too often, it maydry out your skin. Try to take short, lukewarm baths or showers. Oatmealbaths may be soothing to dry skin. After a bath or shower, pat your skin dryand put a moisturizer on your skin right away. Use a mild soap every day toclean your genital area and under your arms. Only clean other parts of yourbody 2 or 3 times a week with soap.
Some people use bath oils to help make their skin less dry. However, theseoils can be dangerous because they make your tub slippery. To avoid slippingand falling, put the oil on your skin after you get out of the bathtub.Plain baby oil works well.
When should I see my doctor because of itchy skin?
Dry, irritated skin is more likely to get infected. Infected skin is red,warm and swollen. It may ooze fluid. You may need antibiotics to get rid ofthis kind of infection.
Severe itching or pain, especially in older adults, sometimes is caused by aserious medical problem. Call your doctor if you are an older person who hassevere itching or pain that doesn't have an obvious cause and doesn't getbetter within 2 weeks.
What medicines treat itching?
A moisturizer might be all you need to relieve itching. If a moisturizerdoes not help enough, you could try using 1 percent hydrocortisone steroidskin cream for a week. If this is not helpful, your doctor may prescribestronger steroids or antihistamine pills.
If you use a steroid cream to treat itching, you should not use the medicinefor longer than 1 to 2 weeks. Be very careful when you put a steroid creamon your face or genital area. Steroid creams may make your skin get verythin and may cause other skin problems. Be sure to talk with your doctor ifyou are using a steroid cream or ointment to treat your itching. (AAFP)
Halitosis (Bad Breath)
What causes bad breath?
Most bad breath (halitosis) comes from something in the mouth. Food sticksbetween your teeth, around the gums and on your tongue. If you don't brushand floss your teeth every day, this food can rot. The rotten bits of foodcause a bad smell in your mouth. Rotten food also helps bacteria to grow inyour mouth. This bacteria can cause gum disease, or gingivitis. Gingivitisalso causes bad breath. The things you eat and drink affect your breath. Bad breath may also be asign of a health problem.
What can I do to prevent bad breath?
Most bad breath (halitosis) comes from something in the mouth. Food sticksbetween your teeth, around the gums and on your tongue. If you don't brushand floss your teeth every day, this food can rot. The rotten bits of foodcause a bad smell in your mouth. Rotten food also helps bacteria to grow inyour mouth. This bacteria can cause gum disease, or gingivitis. Gingivitisalso causes bad breath. The things you eat and drink affect your breath. Bad breath may also be asign of a health problem.
What can I do to prevent bad breath?
- Brush your teeth at least 2 times every day, using a fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush along the gumline, as well as all tooth surfaces. Each timeyou brush your teeth, use your toothbrush to clean the surface of yourtongue.
- Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove food from between yourteeth.
- Eat more fruits and vegetables every day. Eat less meat.
- Avoid certain foods that cause you to have bad breath. These foods mightinclude onions, garlic and pastrami. Alcoholic beverages often cause badbreath.
- Avoid using tobacco products. Any kind of tobacco can cause halitosis.
- Sometimes a dry mouth has an unpleasant odor. If your mouth is dry, youcan suck on sugar-free mints, chew sugar-free gum or drink water.
- Most mouthwashes do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If youuse a mouthwash, swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds beforespitting it out.
- If you wear removable dentures, take them out at night. Brush the denturesand soak them overnight in a disinfecting solution. Removable braces shouldalso be cleaned. Follow the directions of your dentist.
- See your dentist twice a year to have your teeth cleaned.
- If you still have bad breath, see your family doctor to find out what iscausing it. (AAFP)
Rabu, 02 Juli 2008
Gout/Hyperuricemia
Introduction
Gout has been known for more than 2000 years. It can affect men of any age. It is less common in women and then only occurs after the menopause. Luckily, gout is probably the rheumatic disease for which there is the most satisfactory treatment.
What is gout and what causes it?
The old adage that simply eating and drinking too much causes gout has now been proved wrong, although it is true that if you over-indulge in alcohol - especially beer and wine - or food, attacks of gout are more likely. People get gout because there is something wrong with the chemical processes of their body. Urate (which we all have in our blood) can build up and form crystals in the joints and cause them to feel intensely painful. This defect is usually inherited from a parent or grandparent. Gout runs in families. The joints are not the only part of the body to be affected. Crystals may appear under the skin, including sometimes on the ear. They look like little white pimples and are called ‘tophi’.
What is the role of urate?
Urate forms in the blood of healthy people as a breakdown product of various chemical processes. Normally the body rids itself of any excess urate through the kidneys into the urine. However, in people who are prone to gout this does not happen fast enough, so the level of urate builds up. An inherited tendency to gout is the most common cause of the condition. Other causes include kidney disease, in which there tends to be a higher level of urate in the blood because the kidneys do not get rid of it (excrete it) properly. Or, certain other diseases produce too many cells (for example, white blood cells in some blood disorders). These cells release urate when they are broken down after the body has finished with them and this causes an increase in the urate level. Urate in the bloodstream travels in the clear part of the blood (the plasma) in the form of a salt. The plasma urate level normally tends to be higher in men than women.
However, even if the level is high, it will not necessarily lead to gout. Close relatives of people who have gout may have too much urate in their bodies yet never have a single attack of gout in their lives. Certain tablets - such as diuretics, which drain water from the body, and are used to treat heart disease or high blood pressure - increase urate levels and may cause gout.
Remember
Gout is inherited (though by no means every member of a family gets attacks), but environmental factors can play a part. It is due to too much urate in the body.
What is an acute attack like?
This is the most painful of all forms of arthritis or rheumatism. Attacks usually start during the night, often with pain in the big toe. The toe becomes very red, swollen and extremely tender. Even someone bumping into the bed can cause pain. It sometimes resembles a boil near the joint and it can be difficult even for a doctor to tell whether the trouble is gout or inflammation in a bunion. The inflammation is caused by urate crystals being shed into the joints. Other joints - the knee, the elbow or the wrist, for example - may be attacked.
If you are a person who has had gout before and you injure or bruise a joint which then becomes more painful, or takes longer than expected to get better, always see your doctor. You may have triggered an attack of gout. Apart from injury, other things such as fatigue, worry or illness can start an attack. Sometimes an operation (even a minor one like having a tooth out) can bring on an attack a few days later. Excessive eating and drinking can be another cause of attacks.
Remember
Always suspect an acute attack of gout if a joint is unusually painful after a minor injury.Anything which upsets your system may bring on an attack. Always be on the look-out for the early signs of an acute attack, because the earlier you start the treatment the better.
What are the long-term risks?
The first few attacks of gout do no permanent damage to the joints and you can expect a complete recovery, leaving you with a normal joint. It is only when a joint is repeatedly attacked by gout - a rare thing nowadays - that the urate crystals damage the joint and so start off long-term (chronic) arthritis. In mild cases the attacks are often so infrequent - with intervals of many years between them - that permanent damage is unlikely ever to occur.
Gout is occasionally associated with high blood pressure and too much fat in the blood (hyperlipidaemia) . Also, stones may form in the kidney if gout is untreated.
How is gout diagnosed?
Your doctor may suggest the following investigations:
A blood test This measures the amount of urate in the blood (as plasma urate). A raised level strongly supports the diagnosis of gout; but unfortunately the level may also be high in the other conditions already men-tioned, and also in healthy people who do not have gout - especially if they are overweight. Alternatively, sometimes the level of urate can be normal even during an acute attack of gout.
Examination of joint fluid Synovial fluid can be taken from a joint through a needle. It is then examined under a microscope, where any crystals of urate will be quickly spotted. If crystals are present, the diagnosis of gout is proved. This test, which usually causes no more discomfort than a blood test, is particularly useful when gout starts in an unusual way. For example, gout can occasionally mimic another type of rheumatic disease such as rheumatoid arthritis.
X-rays of joints X-rays might be taken but, as they often appear normal, they may not help in the diagnosis.
Remember
Repeated attacks of gout may damage a joint and cause arthritis.
Modern treatment can prevent arthritis developing.
What treatments are there for an acute attack?
NSAIDs
Acute attacks of gout are usually treated by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These are tablets that relieve pain and help inflammation to go down. They are so called because they do not contain steroids. Indometacin was often the first drug doctors would choose, but there are now many other NSAIDs which can be used. Drugs containing the NSAID aspirin, however, should be avoided unless prescribed by your doctor.
Used for the short periods needed to treat an acute attack, NSAIDs are unlikely to cause side-effects. But occasionally you may notice indigestion, a rash, headache, dizziness, or even asthma. Anything more serious - such as damage to the blood cells - is very rare. Unfortunately, there is always a risk of indigestion in some people; anyone who has had a peptic ulcer should be especially careful and should make sure that their tablets are taken either with a meal or straight after eating.
Steroids
If an acute attack of gout does not respond to treatment, your doctor may have to prescribe a cortisone-type drug (a steroid).
Colchicine
Colchicine is another medicine that has long been used to treat acute attacks. This is an old-fashioned remedy obtained from the meadow saffron - the autumn crocus - and it is safe and works well. A doctor usually prescribes colchicine tablets to be taken every 2 hours until the pain is relieved or until diarrhoea occurs.
If possible, colchicine tablets should be taken at the very beginning of an attack, and sometimes - if attacks are repeated - the doctor may give you tablets to keep by you so you do not have to wait until s/he arrives, or the chemist opens. By following your doctor’s instructions carefully and promptly, you can usually control an attack of gout quickly and satisfactorily.
Protecting the joint
The drugs given to relieve an acute attack have little effect on urate levels in the blood. They can do little to prevent further attacks, or stop urate being laid down in the joints. Should your attacks become more frequent, or if blood tests show you are accumulating too much urate, your doctor may decide to prescribe one of the drugs that reduce the quantity of urate in the blood. These have to be taken every day, whether you have an attack or not, as a preventive measure.
The aim of preventive treatment is to keep urate levels controlled. Reducing urate levels means that attacks of gout are avoided because urate crystals are no longer deposited in the joints and other parts of the body, where they may do damage.
There are now several drugs which will do this satisfactorily, but it must be appreciated that you may have to persist with the daily treatment for the rest of your life. Should you stop, urate will begin to accumulate again.
The tablets are therefore prescribed to be taken regularly. Taken consistently over a period, the treatment ensures that the level of urate in your blood stays normal. However, don’t expect to notice anything happen immediately.
The most common of these tablets is allopurinol. This reduces the amount of urate made by the body. It is remarkably safe even when taken for years - the only side-effect that occurs at all frequently is a rash, which disappears when the tablets are stopped.
There are other types of drug used to control urate levels. These flush out urate through the kidneys.
Sometimes acute attacks of gout may actually become more common when these drugs are started, so it may be necessary to take colchicine or an NSAID as well. Whichever drug proves right for you, drinking plenty of water will help to get rid of urate through the kidneys. Depending on the amount of urate you have it can take a long time (perhaps 2 years) to fully clear your body of urate crystals.
Remember
Preventive treatment is a life-long treatment.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Treat any acute attacks in the usual way.
What about diet?
Weight
The most effective dietary treatment for gout is losing weight if you are overweight. This can significantly reduce urate levels in your body, but it must be done gradually because extreme weight loss or starvation diets (fasting) can actually raise urate levels (because they increase cellbreakdown in the body).
Alcohol
The second most useful dietary change if you have gout is to cut down on alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption has been associated with gout for centuries. If you have gout it is advisable to keep your alcohol intake below the safe maximum levels recommended by the government. Currently this is 3-4 units a day for men and 2-3 units a day for women. A unit is 1/2 pint (0.3 litre) of ordinary strength beer, lager or cider (3.5% abv), a single pub measure of 25 ml of spirits (40% abv), or a very small glass of wine (12% abv) - no more than 85 ml, which is much smaller than the standard wine glass used!
Food
Urate is produced from purines, which are chemicals which result from the breakdown of cells. Cutting down on foods which are high in purines can be helpful if you have gout. These foods are shown in Table 1. Note that urate levels are not affected by so-called ‘acidic foods’ like oranges or grapefruit, so you can eat these safely.
Please note: the fact that oily fish such as herring, mackerel and sardines are high in purines means that they are not recommended if you have gout.
However they are rich in special oils which may be beneficial if you have other types of arthritis.
Foods which are high in purines
Gout has been known for more than 2000 years. It can affect men of any age. It is less common in women and then only occurs after the menopause. Luckily, gout is probably the rheumatic disease for which there is the most satisfactory treatment.
What is gout and what causes it?
The old adage that simply eating and drinking too much causes gout has now been proved wrong, although it is true that if you over-indulge in alcohol - especially beer and wine - or food, attacks of gout are more likely. People get gout because there is something wrong with the chemical processes of their body. Urate (which we all have in our blood) can build up and form crystals in the joints and cause them to feel intensely painful. This defect is usually inherited from a parent or grandparent. Gout runs in families. The joints are not the only part of the body to be affected. Crystals may appear under the skin, including sometimes on the ear. They look like little white pimples and are called ‘tophi’.
What is the role of urate?
Urate forms in the blood of healthy people as a breakdown product of various chemical processes. Normally the body rids itself of any excess urate through the kidneys into the urine. However, in people who are prone to gout this does not happen fast enough, so the level of urate builds up. An inherited tendency to gout is the most common cause of the condition. Other causes include kidney disease, in which there tends to be a higher level of urate in the blood because the kidneys do not get rid of it (excrete it) properly. Or, certain other diseases produce too many cells (for example, white blood cells in some blood disorders). These cells release urate when they are broken down after the body has finished with them and this causes an increase in the urate level. Urate in the bloodstream travels in the clear part of the blood (the plasma) in the form of a salt. The plasma urate level normally tends to be higher in men than women.
However, even if the level is high, it will not necessarily lead to gout. Close relatives of people who have gout may have too much urate in their bodies yet never have a single attack of gout in their lives. Certain tablets - such as diuretics, which drain water from the body, and are used to treat heart disease or high blood pressure - increase urate levels and may cause gout.
Remember
Gout is inherited (though by no means every member of a family gets attacks), but environmental factors can play a part. It is due to too much urate in the body.
What is an acute attack like?
This is the most painful of all forms of arthritis or rheumatism. Attacks usually start during the night, often with pain in the big toe. The toe becomes very red, swollen and extremely tender. Even someone bumping into the bed can cause pain. It sometimes resembles a boil near the joint and it can be difficult even for a doctor to tell whether the trouble is gout or inflammation in a bunion. The inflammation is caused by urate crystals being shed into the joints. Other joints - the knee, the elbow or the wrist, for example - may be attacked.
If you are a person who has had gout before and you injure or bruise a joint which then becomes more painful, or takes longer than expected to get better, always see your doctor. You may have triggered an attack of gout. Apart from injury, other things such as fatigue, worry or illness can start an attack. Sometimes an operation (even a minor one like having a tooth out) can bring on an attack a few days later. Excessive eating and drinking can be another cause of attacks.
Remember
Always suspect an acute attack of gout if a joint is unusually painful after a minor injury.Anything which upsets your system may bring on an attack. Always be on the look-out for the early signs of an acute attack, because the earlier you start the treatment the better.
What are the long-term risks?
The first few attacks of gout do no permanent damage to the joints and you can expect a complete recovery, leaving you with a normal joint. It is only when a joint is repeatedly attacked by gout - a rare thing nowadays - that the urate crystals damage the joint and so start off long-term (chronic) arthritis. In mild cases the attacks are often so infrequent - with intervals of many years between them - that permanent damage is unlikely ever to occur.
Gout is occasionally associated with high blood pressure and too much fat in the blood (hyperlipidaemia) . Also, stones may form in the kidney if gout is untreated.
How is gout diagnosed?
Your doctor may suggest the following investigations:
A blood test This measures the amount of urate in the blood (as plasma urate). A raised level strongly supports the diagnosis of gout; but unfortunately the level may also be high in the other conditions already men-tioned, and also in healthy people who do not have gout - especially if they are overweight. Alternatively, sometimes the level of urate can be normal even during an acute attack of gout.
Examination of joint fluid Synovial fluid can be taken from a joint through a needle. It is then examined under a microscope, where any crystals of urate will be quickly spotted. If crystals are present, the diagnosis of gout is proved. This test, which usually causes no more discomfort than a blood test, is particularly useful when gout starts in an unusual way. For example, gout can occasionally mimic another type of rheumatic disease such as rheumatoid arthritis.
X-rays of joints X-rays might be taken but, as they often appear normal, they may not help in the diagnosis.
Remember
Repeated attacks of gout may damage a joint and cause arthritis.
Modern treatment can prevent arthritis developing.
What treatments are there for an acute attack?
NSAIDs
Acute attacks of gout are usually treated by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These are tablets that relieve pain and help inflammation to go down. They are so called because they do not contain steroids. Indometacin was often the first drug doctors would choose, but there are now many other NSAIDs which can be used. Drugs containing the NSAID aspirin, however, should be avoided unless prescribed by your doctor.
Used for the short periods needed to treat an acute attack, NSAIDs are unlikely to cause side-effects. But occasionally you may notice indigestion, a rash, headache, dizziness, or even asthma. Anything more serious - such as damage to the blood cells - is very rare. Unfortunately, there is always a risk of indigestion in some people; anyone who has had a peptic ulcer should be especially careful and should make sure that their tablets are taken either with a meal or straight after eating.
Steroids
If an acute attack of gout does not respond to treatment, your doctor may have to prescribe a cortisone-type drug (a steroid).
Colchicine
Colchicine is another medicine that has long been used to treat acute attacks. This is an old-fashioned remedy obtained from the meadow saffron - the autumn crocus - and it is safe and works well. A doctor usually prescribes colchicine tablets to be taken every 2 hours until the pain is relieved or until diarrhoea occurs.
If possible, colchicine tablets should be taken at the very beginning of an attack, and sometimes - if attacks are repeated - the doctor may give you tablets to keep by you so you do not have to wait until s/he arrives, or the chemist opens. By following your doctor’s instructions carefully and promptly, you can usually control an attack of gout quickly and satisfactorily.
Protecting the joint
The drugs given to relieve an acute attack have little effect on urate levels in the blood. They can do little to prevent further attacks, or stop urate being laid down in the joints. Should your attacks become more frequent, or if blood tests show you are accumulating too much urate, your doctor may decide to prescribe one of the drugs that reduce the quantity of urate in the blood. These have to be taken every day, whether you have an attack or not, as a preventive measure.
The aim of preventive treatment is to keep urate levels controlled. Reducing urate levels means that attacks of gout are avoided because urate crystals are no longer deposited in the joints and other parts of the body, where they may do damage.
There are now several drugs which will do this satisfactorily, but it must be appreciated that you may have to persist with the daily treatment for the rest of your life. Should you stop, urate will begin to accumulate again.
The tablets are therefore prescribed to be taken regularly. Taken consistently over a period, the treatment ensures that the level of urate in your blood stays normal. However, don’t expect to notice anything happen immediately.
The most common of these tablets is allopurinol. This reduces the amount of urate made by the body. It is remarkably safe even when taken for years - the only side-effect that occurs at all frequently is a rash, which disappears when the tablets are stopped.
There are other types of drug used to control urate levels. These flush out urate through the kidneys.
Sometimes acute attacks of gout may actually become more common when these drugs are started, so it may be necessary to take colchicine or an NSAID as well. Whichever drug proves right for you, drinking plenty of water will help to get rid of urate through the kidneys. Depending on the amount of urate you have it can take a long time (perhaps 2 years) to fully clear your body of urate crystals.
Remember
Preventive treatment is a life-long treatment.
Drink plenty of fluids.
Treat any acute attacks in the usual way.
What about diet?
Weight
The most effective dietary treatment for gout is losing weight if you are overweight. This can significantly reduce urate levels in your body, but it must be done gradually because extreme weight loss or starvation diets (fasting) can actually raise urate levels (because they increase cellbreakdown in the body).
Alcohol
The second most useful dietary change if you have gout is to cut down on alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption has been associated with gout for centuries. If you have gout it is advisable to keep your alcohol intake below the safe maximum levels recommended by the government. Currently this is 3-4 units a day for men and 2-3 units a day for women. A unit is 1/2 pint (0.3 litre) of ordinary strength beer, lager or cider (3.5% abv), a single pub measure of 25 ml of spirits (40% abv), or a very small glass of wine (12% abv) - no more than 85 ml, which is much smaller than the standard wine glass used!
Food
Urate is produced from purines, which are chemicals which result from the breakdown of cells. Cutting down on foods which are high in purines can be helpful if you have gout. These foods are shown in Table 1. Note that urate levels are not affected by so-called ‘acidic foods’ like oranges or grapefruit, so you can eat these safely.
Please note: the fact that oily fish such as herring, mackerel and sardines are high in purines means that they are not recommended if you have gout.
However they are rich in special oils which may be beneficial if you have other types of arthritis.
Foods which are high in purines
- Meat: Liver, Offal
- Fish: Anchovies, Fish roes, Herring, Mackerel, Sardines
- Other: Beer, Yeast extracts (e.g. Marmite)
Some more questions answered
Do women get gout?
Rarely. The disease is very occasionally found in older women, particularly if they are taking diuretics (water tablets which are used in the treatment of high blood pressure or heart disease). This is because these drugs can cause the body to retain urate. Gout in young women is extremely rare and needs special investigation.
Can gout cause serious joint disease?
Occasionally. This can happen if the condition is left untreated. At first the attacks are acute, and the joint returns to its normal state afterwards, but eventually the deposits of urate can cause severe deformity and disability. Fortunately this is preventable with proper treatment, as described earlier.
Is urate deposited at places other than in joints?
Yes. As mentioned, it can be deposited under the skin - for example, on the ears, fingers and toes. It can also be deposited in internal organs, particularly the kidneys. For this reason it is usual for doctors investigating someone with gout to do a test to check how well the kidneys are working. A specimen of urine may be needed for this.
Can it be harmful to take the drugs that lower urate over a long period?
The drugs in question are remarkably safe. They sometimes have to be discontinued because of an adverse effect such as a rash or dyspepsia (indigestion) , but otherwise they can be taken indefinitely without side-effects.
What is ’secondary’ gout?
This is gout that is predominantly due to a well-defined underlying cause. Diuretics (water tablets) have already been mentioned; other causes include certain rare blood diseases that raise the level of urate. Low-grade lead poisoning - seen in plumbers and painters during the nineteenth century - was once a cause of secondary gout. Usually, however, it is impossible to identify such causes, and the condition is then referred to as ‘primary’ gout.
Are there any other types of crystal - apart from urate - that can cause joint disease?
The only other common kind of ‘crystal arthritis’ is caused by a certain type of calcium crystal, which is deposited in the joints in a similar way to urate. It may cause acute attacks rather like gout, but the knee is more often involved than the big toe.
Is gout equally common in all countries?
There are certain races (such as some of the Pacific peoples) who have high urate levels and who are therefore especially susceptible to gout. The prevalence of gout can also vary in the same people at different times - it became rare in Europe, for example, during the period of deprivation and hardship caused by the Second World War. (ARC)
Weight Control: What it Takes to Lose Weight
What does it take to lose weight?
To lose weight, you have to cut down on the number of calories you consume and start burning more calories each day. Calories are the amount of energy in the food you eat. Some foods have more calories than others. For example, foods high in fat and sugar are also high in calories. Your body uses calories for energy. If you eat more calories than you use, the extra calories will be stored as body fat.
A pound of fat is about 3,500 calories. To lose 1 pound of fat in a week, you have to eat 3,500 fewer calories (that is 500 fewer calories a day), or you have to “burn off” an extra 3,500 calories. You can burn off calories by exercising or just by being more active. (Talk to your family doctor before you begin any type of exercise program. Your doctor may be able to tell you what kind of exercise program is right for you.)
You can lose weight by eating fewer calories. But to lose weight and keep it off, you need to eat fewer calories and burn off calories. If you cut 250 calories from your diet each day and exercise enough to burn off 250 calories, that adds up to 500 fewer calories in one day. If you do this for 7 days, you can lose 1 pound of fat in a week.
Many experts believe you should not try to lose more than 2 pounds per week. Losing more than 2 pounds in a week usually means that you are losing water weight and breaking down muscle mass instead of losing fat. If you do this, you will have less energy, and you will probably gain the weight back.
How often should I eat?
Most people can eat 3 regular meals and 1 snack every day. The 3 meals should be about the same size and should be low in fat. It’s good to try to eat 1 to 2 cups of fruits and vegetables, 2 to 3 ounces of grains and 1 to 2 ounces of meat or a meat alternative at most meals. Some people benefit more if they eat 5 to 6 smaller meals throughout the day, about 2 to 3 hours apart. For example, their first meal of the day might be a cup of yogurt and a banana. Three hours later they might eat a simple deli sandwich.
Don’t skip meals. While this may help you lose weight for a little while, it fails in the long run. Skipping meals may make you feel too hungry and then eat too much at once. You may get so used to skipping meals that you don’t feel hungry at normal mealtimes. But after about a month of eating a normal breakfast and lunch and a light dinner, your body will adjust.
What is so bad about high-fat foods?
Fat has almost twice the calories of carbohydrates and protein. Fat calories turn into body fat more easily than carbohydrates or proteins. Fat in your diet can confuse your appetite, so you can’t tell when you are full.
Can I trust nutrition information I get from newspapers and magazines?
Nutrition tips from different sources sometimes conflict with each other.You should always check with your doctor first. Also, keep in mind the following advice:
There is no “magic bullet” when it comes to nutrition. There isn’t 1 diet that works for every person. You need to find an eating plan that works for you. Good nutrition doesn’t come in a vitamin pill. You can take a vitamin pill to be sure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals, but your body benefits the most when you eat healthy foods. Eating all different kinds of foods is best for your body. Learn to try new foods. Fad diets offer short-term changes, but good health comes from long-term effort and commitment.
Stories from people who have used a diet program or product, especially in commercials and infomercials, are just a way to sell more of the product. Remember, weight gain or other problems that come up after the diet program is over are never talked about in the ads.
Will diet drugs help?
Although diet drugs may help you lose weight at first, they usually don’t help you keep the weight off. Taking drugs does not help you learn to change your eating and exercise habits. Making lasting changes in these habits is the way to lose weight and keep it off. (AAFP)
To lose weight, you have to cut down on the number of calories you consume and start burning more calories each day. Calories are the amount of energy in the food you eat. Some foods have more calories than others. For example, foods high in fat and sugar are also high in calories. Your body uses calories for energy. If you eat more calories than you use, the extra calories will be stored as body fat.
A pound of fat is about 3,500 calories. To lose 1 pound of fat in a week, you have to eat 3,500 fewer calories (that is 500 fewer calories a day), or you have to “burn off” an extra 3,500 calories. You can burn off calories by exercising or just by being more active. (Talk to your family doctor before you begin any type of exercise program. Your doctor may be able to tell you what kind of exercise program is right for you.)
You can lose weight by eating fewer calories. But to lose weight and keep it off, you need to eat fewer calories and burn off calories. If you cut 250 calories from your diet each day and exercise enough to burn off 250 calories, that adds up to 500 fewer calories in one day. If you do this for 7 days, you can lose 1 pound of fat in a week.
Many experts believe you should not try to lose more than 2 pounds per week. Losing more than 2 pounds in a week usually means that you are losing water weight and breaking down muscle mass instead of losing fat. If you do this, you will have less energy, and you will probably gain the weight back.
How often should I eat?
Most people can eat 3 regular meals and 1 snack every day. The 3 meals should be about the same size and should be low in fat. It’s good to try to eat 1 to 2 cups of fruits and vegetables, 2 to 3 ounces of grains and 1 to 2 ounces of meat or a meat alternative at most meals. Some people benefit more if they eat 5 to 6 smaller meals throughout the day, about 2 to 3 hours apart. For example, their first meal of the day might be a cup of yogurt and a banana. Three hours later they might eat a simple deli sandwich.
Don’t skip meals. While this may help you lose weight for a little while, it fails in the long run. Skipping meals may make you feel too hungry and then eat too much at once. You may get so used to skipping meals that you don’t feel hungry at normal mealtimes. But after about a month of eating a normal breakfast and lunch and a light dinner, your body will adjust.
What is so bad about high-fat foods?
Fat has almost twice the calories of carbohydrates and protein. Fat calories turn into body fat more easily than carbohydrates or proteins. Fat in your diet can confuse your appetite, so you can’t tell when you are full.
Can I trust nutrition information I get from newspapers and magazines?
Nutrition tips from different sources sometimes conflict with each other.You should always check with your doctor first. Also, keep in mind the following advice:
There is no “magic bullet” when it comes to nutrition. There isn’t 1 diet that works for every person. You need to find an eating plan that works for you. Good nutrition doesn’t come in a vitamin pill. You can take a vitamin pill to be sure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals, but your body benefits the most when you eat healthy foods. Eating all different kinds of foods is best for your body. Learn to try new foods. Fad diets offer short-term changes, but good health comes from long-term effort and commitment.
Stories from people who have used a diet program or product, especially in commercials and infomercials, are just a way to sell more of the product. Remember, weight gain or other problems that come up after the diet program is over are never talked about in the ads.
Will diet drugs help?
Although diet drugs may help you lose weight at first, they usually don’t help you keep the weight off. Taking drugs does not help you learn to change your eating and exercise habits. Making lasting changes in these habits is the way to lose weight and keep it off. (AAFP)
Types of Cancer Young Adults Get
by: R.E. Miller
Cancer is rare in young adults. Diseases like breast cancer usually affect adult women - young adult girls are unlikely to get this form of cancer. But of all the different kinds of cancer, there are some types that young adults are more likely to get. Testicular cancer, for example, tends to affect younger guys rather than older men. Read on to learn more about the types of cancer that can affect young adults.The types of cancers young adults get have one thing in common: cells, the basic components or “building blocks” of the human body. Cancer occurs when cells develop abnormally and grow in an uncontrolled way. Read on to learn information about types of cancer that young adults may get, including warning signs and symptoms and how these cancers can be treated.
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma (pronounced: os-tee-oh-sar- koh-muh) is the most common type of bone cancer. It usually appears in young adult guys, often during their growth spurts. Osteosarcoma affects twice as many guys as girls and tends to show up in people who are taller than average. Certain medical problems that may be caused by genes, such as retinoblastoma (pronounced: ret-un-oh-blas- toe-muh), a tumor that develops in the retina of the eye, may predispose some young adults to develop osteosarcoma. The same is true if a young adult has received bone radiation treatments for other cancers.
The most common symptoms of osteosarcoma are pain and swelling in an arm or leg that is sometimes accompanied by a lump. Some people have more pain at night or when they exercise. Osteosarcoma is most often found in the bones around the knee but can occur in other bones as well. In rare cases, a tumor can spread or metastasize beyond the bone to nerves and blood vessels of the limb. (Metastasize is the word doctors use when cells from a tumor break away from the original cancer site and travel to a different tissue or organ.)
Treatment for osteosarcoma usually involves chemotherapy (intravenous, or IV, medication that kills cancer cells) as well as surgery to remove the tumor. In the rare cases where these procedures can’t fight the cancer completely, a doctor may need to amputate (remove) part or all of the limb to fight the cancer. A doctor may perform limb-salvage surgery, where the bone that has cancer is removed and the limb (usually an arm or leg) is saved from amputation by filling the gap with a bone graft or special metal rod.
Losing a limb can be devastating, especially because it can be hard for young adults who are already dealing with body changes. Counseling and physical therapy (also called physical rehabilitation) can both be helpful in this situation. young adults who have amputations are usually fitted with a prosthesis (pronounced: prahs-thee-sus) , or artificial limb, which can help them adapt. Most young adults are able to return to normal activities - even sports. Most young adults develop side effects, such as hair loss, bleeding, infections, and heart or skin problems, from medicines used in chemotherapy treatment for osteosarcoma. Chemotherapy may also increase the person’s risk of developing other cancers in the future. The good news is that most young adults with osteosarcoma do recover.
Ewing’s Sarcoma
Another type of cancer that affects the bone is Ewing’s sarcoma. It is similar to osteosarcoma in that it also affects young adults and young adults and is usually located in the leg or pelvis.Most young adults with Ewing’s sarcoma receive chemotherapy as well as surgery. Some patients will also need radiation in addition to or instead of surgery to make sure that remaining cancer cells have been destroyed.Ewing’s sarcoma generally responds well to chemotherapy and radiation.Osteosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma share common risk factors and side effects from treatment. Chances for recovery depend upon where the tumor is located, its size, and whether it has spread. But both types of bone cancer respond well to treatment and are curable in many cases.
Leukemia
Leukemia is one of the most common childhood cancers. It occurs when large numbers of abnormal white blood cells called leukemic blasts fill the bone marrow and sometimes enter the bloodstream. Because these abnormal blood cells are defective, they don’t help protectthe body against infection the way normal white blood cells do. And because they grow uncontrollably, they take over the bone marrow and interfere with the body’s production of other important types of cells in the bloodstream, like red blood cells (which carry oxygen) and platelets (which help blood to clot).
Leukemia causes problems like bleeding, anemia (low numbers of red blood cells), bone pain, and infections. It can also spread to other places like the lymph nodes, liver, spleen, brain, and the testicles in males.The types of leukemia most likely to occur in young adults are acute lymphocytic (pronounced: lim-fuh-sih- tik) leukemia (ALL) and acute myelogenous (pronounced: my-uh-ladj-uh- nus) leukemia (AML).
Virtually all people with ALL and AML are treated with chemotherapy, and some also receive stem cell transplants, in which they are given new stem cells from another person. Bone marrow transplants are a common form of stem cell transplantation. Some people also receive radiation. The length of treatment and types of medicine given will vary depending on the type of leukemia.
The chances for a cure are very good with certain kinds of leukemia. With treatment, most patients with ALL and many patients with AML are free of the disease without recurrence.
Brain Tumors
Brain tumors are not common in young adults. There are two types - primary brain tumors start from cells in the brain and secondary brain tumors come from a cancer that started in another part of the body (e.g., osteosarcoma) and spread to the brain.
Most brain tumors in young adults are primary. Two of the most common forms are astrocytomas (pronounced: as-truh-sye- toe-muhz) and ependymomas (pronounced: ep-en-duh-moe- muhz). Astrocytomas are tumors of the brain that originate from cells in the brain called astrocytes. This type of tumor doesn’t usually spread outside the brain and spinal cord and doesn’t usuallyaffect other organs. Ependymomas are tumors that usually begin in the lining of brain ventricles. The brain has four ventricles, or cavities, that are a pathway for cerebrospinal fluid, a liquid substance that cushions the brain and spine and protects them from trauma.
No one knows the exact cause of primary brain cancer. One possibility is that as the brain and spinal cord were forming, a problem with the cells occurred. Treatments vary depending upon the type and location of the tumor. If it is possible to remove a tumor, surgery is usually performed, followed by radiation. Some patients receive chemotherapy as well.The chance of surviving a brain tumor depends on its type, location, and treatment. But there is a very good chance that if the tumor can be removed and additional treatment is given, the cancer can be cured.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma refers to cancer that develops in the lymphatic system, which includes the lymph nodes, thymus, spleen, adenoids, tonsils, and bone marrow. The lymph system functions in the body by fighting off germs that cause infection and illness. Most young adults with lymphoma have eitherHodgkin’s disease (cancer of the lymph tissue) or non-Hodgkin’ s lymphoma (cancer of the cells of the immune system that circulate throughout the body).
Hodgkin’s disease usually occurs in adolescents and young adults. It can show up in lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, chest, or other places. The lymph nodes become enlarged but are usually not painful. Hodgkin’s disease is identified by large, unusual cells called Reed-Sternberg cells that are detected under a microscope after a biopsy, a procedure in which a doctor removes a small tissue sample to examine it for cancer cells. Chemotherapy and often radiation are used to treat Hodgkin’s disease.
Non-Hodgkin’ s lymphoma (NHL) is similar to leukemia (ALL) because both involve malignant lymphocytes (pronounced: lim-fuh-sytes) , white blood cells found in lymph nodes, and because many of the symptoms of these diseases are the same. NHL is usually treated with chemotherapy.Most young adults with Hodgkin’s disease or NHL who have completed their treatment achieve a complete remission with no signs of the disease.
Other Cancers
Other cancers that young adults may get - although they are generally rare - include testicular cancer and rhabdomyosarcomas.Although testicular cancer is actually rare in young adult guys, overall it is the most common cancer in males ages 15 to 35. Testicular cancer is almost always curable if it is caught and treated early. Guys should learn how to examine their testicles regularly to detect any abnormal lumps or bumps, which are usually the earliest sign of testicular cancer.Rhabdomyosarcomas (pronounced: rab-doe-my-uh- sar-koe-muhz) , or soft tissue sarcomas, are less common cancers that mostly occur in infants, kids, and young adults. With these cancers, cancer cells grow in the soft tissues of the skeletal muscles (the body’s muscles that a person controls for movement). Though these cancers can occur anywhere in the body, rhabdomyosarcomas most frequently happen within the muscles in the trunk, arms, or legs. The types of treatment used and chances for recovery depend upon where the rhabdomyosarcoma is located and whether the cancer has spread to other areas of the body. (AAFP)
Cancer is rare in young adults. Diseases like breast cancer usually affect adult women - young adult girls are unlikely to get this form of cancer. But of all the different kinds of cancer, there are some types that young adults are more likely to get. Testicular cancer, for example, tends to affect younger guys rather than older men. Read on to learn more about the types of cancer that can affect young adults.The types of cancers young adults get have one thing in common: cells, the basic components or “building blocks” of the human body. Cancer occurs when cells develop abnormally and grow in an uncontrolled way. Read on to learn information about types of cancer that young adults may get, including warning signs and symptoms and how these cancers can be treated.
Osteosarcoma
Osteosarcoma (pronounced: os-tee-oh-sar- koh-muh) is the most common type of bone cancer. It usually appears in young adult guys, often during their growth spurts. Osteosarcoma affects twice as many guys as girls and tends to show up in people who are taller than average. Certain medical problems that may be caused by genes, such as retinoblastoma (pronounced: ret-un-oh-blas- toe-muh), a tumor that develops in the retina of the eye, may predispose some young adults to develop osteosarcoma. The same is true if a young adult has received bone radiation treatments for other cancers.
The most common symptoms of osteosarcoma are pain and swelling in an arm or leg that is sometimes accompanied by a lump. Some people have more pain at night or when they exercise. Osteosarcoma is most often found in the bones around the knee but can occur in other bones as well. In rare cases, a tumor can spread or metastasize beyond the bone to nerves and blood vessels of the limb. (Metastasize is the word doctors use when cells from a tumor break away from the original cancer site and travel to a different tissue or organ.)
Treatment for osteosarcoma usually involves chemotherapy (intravenous, or IV, medication that kills cancer cells) as well as surgery to remove the tumor. In the rare cases where these procedures can’t fight the cancer completely, a doctor may need to amputate (remove) part or all of the limb to fight the cancer. A doctor may perform limb-salvage surgery, where the bone that has cancer is removed and the limb (usually an arm or leg) is saved from amputation by filling the gap with a bone graft or special metal rod.
Losing a limb can be devastating, especially because it can be hard for young adults who are already dealing with body changes. Counseling and physical therapy (also called physical rehabilitation) can both be helpful in this situation. young adults who have amputations are usually fitted with a prosthesis (pronounced: prahs-thee-sus) , or artificial limb, which can help them adapt. Most young adults are able to return to normal activities - even sports. Most young adults develop side effects, such as hair loss, bleeding, infections, and heart or skin problems, from medicines used in chemotherapy treatment for osteosarcoma. Chemotherapy may also increase the person’s risk of developing other cancers in the future. The good news is that most young adults with osteosarcoma do recover.
Ewing’s Sarcoma
Another type of cancer that affects the bone is Ewing’s sarcoma. It is similar to osteosarcoma in that it also affects young adults and young adults and is usually located in the leg or pelvis.Most young adults with Ewing’s sarcoma receive chemotherapy as well as surgery. Some patients will also need radiation in addition to or instead of surgery to make sure that remaining cancer cells have been destroyed.Ewing’s sarcoma generally responds well to chemotherapy and radiation.Osteosarcoma and Ewing’s sarcoma share common risk factors and side effects from treatment. Chances for recovery depend upon where the tumor is located, its size, and whether it has spread. But both types of bone cancer respond well to treatment and are curable in many cases.
Leukemia
Leukemia is one of the most common childhood cancers. It occurs when large numbers of abnormal white blood cells called leukemic blasts fill the bone marrow and sometimes enter the bloodstream. Because these abnormal blood cells are defective, they don’t help protectthe body against infection the way normal white blood cells do. And because they grow uncontrollably, they take over the bone marrow and interfere with the body’s production of other important types of cells in the bloodstream, like red blood cells (which carry oxygen) and platelets (which help blood to clot).
Leukemia causes problems like bleeding, anemia (low numbers of red blood cells), bone pain, and infections. It can also spread to other places like the lymph nodes, liver, spleen, brain, and the testicles in males.The types of leukemia most likely to occur in young adults are acute lymphocytic (pronounced: lim-fuh-sih- tik) leukemia (ALL) and acute myelogenous (pronounced: my-uh-ladj-uh- nus) leukemia (AML).
Virtually all people with ALL and AML are treated with chemotherapy, and some also receive stem cell transplants, in which they are given new stem cells from another person. Bone marrow transplants are a common form of stem cell transplantation. Some people also receive radiation. The length of treatment and types of medicine given will vary depending on the type of leukemia.
The chances for a cure are very good with certain kinds of leukemia. With treatment, most patients with ALL and many patients with AML are free of the disease without recurrence.
Brain Tumors
Brain tumors are not common in young adults. There are two types - primary brain tumors start from cells in the brain and secondary brain tumors come from a cancer that started in another part of the body (e.g., osteosarcoma) and spread to the brain.
Most brain tumors in young adults are primary. Two of the most common forms are astrocytomas (pronounced: as-truh-sye- toe-muhz) and ependymomas (pronounced: ep-en-duh-moe- muhz). Astrocytomas are tumors of the brain that originate from cells in the brain called astrocytes. This type of tumor doesn’t usually spread outside the brain and spinal cord and doesn’t usuallyaffect other organs. Ependymomas are tumors that usually begin in the lining of brain ventricles. The brain has four ventricles, or cavities, that are a pathway for cerebrospinal fluid, a liquid substance that cushions the brain and spine and protects them from trauma.
No one knows the exact cause of primary brain cancer. One possibility is that as the brain and spinal cord were forming, a problem with the cells occurred. Treatments vary depending upon the type and location of the tumor. If it is possible to remove a tumor, surgery is usually performed, followed by radiation. Some patients receive chemotherapy as well.The chance of surviving a brain tumor depends on its type, location, and treatment. But there is a very good chance that if the tumor can be removed and additional treatment is given, the cancer can be cured.
Lymphoma
Lymphoma refers to cancer that develops in the lymphatic system, which includes the lymph nodes, thymus, spleen, adenoids, tonsils, and bone marrow. The lymph system functions in the body by fighting off germs that cause infection and illness. Most young adults with lymphoma have eitherHodgkin’s disease (cancer of the lymph tissue) or non-Hodgkin’ s lymphoma (cancer of the cells of the immune system that circulate throughout the body).
Hodgkin’s disease usually occurs in adolescents and young adults. It can show up in lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, chest, or other places. The lymph nodes become enlarged but are usually not painful. Hodgkin’s disease is identified by large, unusual cells called Reed-Sternberg cells that are detected under a microscope after a biopsy, a procedure in which a doctor removes a small tissue sample to examine it for cancer cells. Chemotherapy and often radiation are used to treat Hodgkin’s disease.
Non-Hodgkin’ s lymphoma (NHL) is similar to leukemia (ALL) because both involve malignant lymphocytes (pronounced: lim-fuh-sytes) , white blood cells found in lymph nodes, and because many of the symptoms of these diseases are the same. NHL is usually treated with chemotherapy.Most young adults with Hodgkin’s disease or NHL who have completed their treatment achieve a complete remission with no signs of the disease.
Other Cancers
Other cancers that young adults may get - although they are generally rare - include testicular cancer and rhabdomyosarcomas.Although testicular cancer is actually rare in young adult guys, overall it is the most common cancer in males ages 15 to 35. Testicular cancer is almost always curable if it is caught and treated early. Guys should learn how to examine their testicles regularly to detect any abnormal lumps or bumps, which are usually the earliest sign of testicular cancer.Rhabdomyosarcomas (pronounced: rab-doe-my-uh- sar-koe-muhz) , or soft tissue sarcomas, are less common cancers that mostly occur in infants, kids, and young adults. With these cancers, cancer cells grow in the soft tissues of the skeletal muscles (the body’s muscles that a person controls for movement). Though these cancers can occur anywhere in the body, rhabdomyosarcomas most frequently happen within the muscles in the trunk, arms, or legs. The types of treatment used and chances for recovery depend upon where the rhabdomyosarcoma is located and whether the cancer has spread to other areas of the body. (AAFP)
Sinusitis
What are sinuses?
The air chambers in the bone behind your cheeks, eyebrows and jaw are called sinuses. They make mucus, a fluid that cleans bacteria and other particles out of the air you breathe. Tiny hairs called cilia (say: “sill-ee-ah” ) sweep mucus out of your sinuses so it can drain out through your nose.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis (say: “sine-you-site- iss”) is the name for a condition in which the lining of your sinuses becomes inflamed.
What causes sinusitis?
Anything that causes swelling in your sinuses or keeps the cilia from moving mucus can cause sinusitis. This can occur because of changes in temperature or air pressure. Using decongestant nasal sprays too much, smoking, and swimming or diving can also increase your risk of getting sinusitis. Some people have growths called polyps (say: “pawl-ips”) that block their sinus passages.
When sinusitis is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, you get a sinus infection. Sinus infections sometimes occurs after you’ve had a cold. The cold virus attacks the lining of your sinuses, causing them to swell and become narrow. Your body responds to the virus by producing more mucus, but it gets blocked in your swollen sinuses. This built-up mucus makes a good place for bacteria to grow. The bacteria can cause a sinus infection.
What are the signs of acute sinusitis?
A cold that starts to get better and then gets worse may be a sign of acute sinusitis. Pain or pressure in some areas of the face (forehead, cheeks or between the eyes) is often a sign of blocked sinus drainage and can be a sign of acute sinusitis. Pain in your forehead that starts when you lean forward can also be a sign. Other symptoms may include a stuffy nose, fever and an ache in your upper teeth.
How is acute sinusitis treated?
Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic (medicine that kills bacteria). You may take an antibiotic for 10 to 14 days, but you will usually start feeling better a couple of days after you start taking it. It is important to take this medicine exactly as your doctor tells you and to continue taking it until it is gone, even after you’re feeling better. If you have sinus pain or pressure, your doctor may prescribe or recommend a decongestant to help your sinuses drain.
Tips on taking care of sinusitis
The air chambers in the bone behind your cheeks, eyebrows and jaw are called sinuses. They make mucus, a fluid that cleans bacteria and other particles out of the air you breathe. Tiny hairs called cilia (say: “sill-ee-ah” ) sweep mucus out of your sinuses so it can drain out through your nose.
What is sinusitis?
Sinusitis (say: “sine-you-site- iss”) is the name for a condition in which the lining of your sinuses becomes inflamed.
What causes sinusitis?
Anything that causes swelling in your sinuses or keeps the cilia from moving mucus can cause sinusitis. This can occur because of changes in temperature or air pressure. Using decongestant nasal sprays too much, smoking, and swimming or diving can also increase your risk of getting sinusitis. Some people have growths called polyps (say: “pawl-ips”) that block their sinus passages.
When sinusitis is caused by a bacterial or viral infection, you get a sinus infection. Sinus infections sometimes occurs after you’ve had a cold. The cold virus attacks the lining of your sinuses, causing them to swell and become narrow. Your body responds to the virus by producing more mucus, but it gets blocked in your swollen sinuses. This built-up mucus makes a good place for bacteria to grow. The bacteria can cause a sinus infection.
What are the signs of acute sinusitis?
A cold that starts to get better and then gets worse may be a sign of acute sinusitis. Pain or pressure in some areas of the face (forehead, cheeks or between the eyes) is often a sign of blocked sinus drainage and can be a sign of acute sinusitis. Pain in your forehead that starts when you lean forward can also be a sign. Other symptoms may include a stuffy nose, fever and an ache in your upper teeth.
How is acute sinusitis treated?
Your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic (medicine that kills bacteria). You may take an antibiotic for 10 to 14 days, but you will usually start feeling better a couple of days after you start taking it. It is important to take this medicine exactly as your doctor tells you and to continue taking it until it is gone, even after you’re feeling better. If you have sinus pain or pressure, your doctor may prescribe or recommend a decongestant to help your sinuses drain.
Tips on taking care of sinusitis
- Get plenty of rest. Lying down can make your sinuses feel more stopped-up, so try lying on the side that lets you breathe the best.
- Sip hot liquids and drink plenty of fluids.
- Apply moist heat by holding a warm, wet towel against your face or breathing in steam through a cloth or towel.
- Talk with your doctor before using an over-the-counter cold medicine. Some cold medicines can make your symptoms worse or cause other problems.
- Don’t use a nose spray with a decongestant in it for more than 3 days. If you use it for more than 3 days, the swelling in your sinuses may get worse when you stop the medicine.
- Use an over-the-counter medicine such as acetaminophen/ paracetamol for pain.Rinse your sinus passages with a saline solution. You can buy an over-the-counter saline solution or ask your doctor how to make one at home.(AAFP)
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