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In many countries heart disease is viewed as a"second epidemic," replacing infectious diseases as the leading cause.of death. It is especially devastating in countries that do not have adequate health care.
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Heart disease is any disorder that affects the heart''s ability to function normally. Various forms of heart disease include:.The most common cause of heart disease is a narrowing of or blockage in the coronary arteries supplying blood to the heart...
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Detailed information on heart disease in pregnancy The heart is the hardest working muscle in the human body. Located almost in the center of the chest, the adult human heart is about the size of two fists held side-by-side.
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Heart disease is the narrowing or blockage of the arteries and vessels that provide oxygen and nutrient-rich.
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Every year, thousands of Americans die from heart attacks and millions of others suffer from related cardiovascular diseases. Knowing what causes heart disease and how you can prevent it can help you live a healthier, longer life. To assess your knowledge, answer these statements true or false.
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Detailed information on heart disorders in high-risk newborns There are many heart disorders that place a newborn at higher risk and require clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some, for which we have provided a brief overview.
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Twelve numbers worth knowing for your heart's health.Knowing the numbers for a few key risk factors is good for your heart and overall health.
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If you have diabetes, you are two to four times more likely to have heart disease than someone without diabetes. You can control your health risks by making some changes in your life.
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Most people with diabetes eventually develop some form of heart disease, but this is not inevitable. Focusing on improving health through diet, exercise, weight loss, and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol can help prevent heart disease.
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Your heart is a vital organ that keeps your body functioning. Unfortunately, many people don't treat it that way. They may not realize that their daily habits and lifestyle can overwork and damage their heart. So, take care of your heart and yourself. Start by making the following lifestyle changes.
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For some people with coronary heart disease, high doses of statins, a commonly prescribed, potent medication to lower cholesterol, can reverse or decrease the buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries. This can reduce the risk for heart attack.
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A combination of eating a healthy diet, staying at a healthy weight, exercising regularly, not smoking, and drinking alcohol in moderation may sharply cut your risk of heart disease.
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Millions of people diagnosed with heart disease enjoy active, satisfying lives. Instead of looking on their diagnoses as sentences to be invalids, they have used them as catalysts to make positive changes in their lives.
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Your risk of heart disease increases if you're more than 30 percent overweight. Obesity raises cholesterol, blood pressure, and can lead to diabetes, another risk factor for heart disease. You can reduce your risk for heart disease by losing as few as 10 pounds if you are overweight.
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According to the long-term Framingham Heart Study, having parents who live to age 85 or beyond may offer a greater degree of protection from heart disease and stroke.
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Research shows that there are important differences between the sexes when it comes to heart disease, which may affect treatment and prevention
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Heart disease kills more than 700,000 Americans every year. But many of these deaths could be prevented if people took control of their risk factors for this disease.
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Although three out of four smokers say they want to quit, fewer than 5 percent of smokers who quit for at least a day are able to stay away from tobacco for three months to a year.
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C-reactive protein is emerging as a key risk factor for heart disease. A guide to new research on this protein, how to test for it, and how exercise can lower its presence in the blood.
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The way you respond to a heart attack can make a profound difference in what happens to you in the future.
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This report explains what your blood pressure numbers mean and how hypertension can be prevented and treated by making diet and lifestyle changes. Also includes information on medications.
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A noisy environment could be a contributing factor to heart disease.
There's little question that loud noise hurts your hearing. The growing din of everyday life may also be bad for blood pressure and the heart.
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Surveys show fewer than one in 10 women perceive heart disease as their greatest health threat. But it's the nation's number one killer, and women are its prime target.
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An intimate relationship is built on being able to share feelings. The stress and worry of a heart attack or surgery can upset this closeness.
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Besides the nutritional benefits, eating beans regularly can lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of a heart attack.
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A long-running heart study resulted in a simple tool to calculate one's risk of heart disease. While there have been many newer tests and tools, they have not been able to improve upon the original.
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Discussion of available tests for heart disease, with an emphasis on prevention.
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Detailed information on heart disease and diabetes, including symptoms, prevention, and treatment
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If you recently had a heart attack or heart surgery, you may be concerned about your love life. This is normal during an illness. But know that you can still enjoy sex. Here is information than can help you understand your feelings. It can also help you work with your partner to rebuild intimacy and enjoy sex again.
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Colds and the flu can be serious for people with heart disease.Colds and the flu can be serious for people with heart disease. Not only are you at risk for pneumonia, but it's hard to tell whether your symptoms are a sign of a cold or of worsening heart failure.
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A short glossary of medical terms associated with heart disease.Diuretic. A medication that helps the body get rid of extra fluid and salt by producing more urine. Sometimes called "water pills,” diuretics reduce fluid buildup in the lungs and swelling in the feet and ankles.
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If you are like most people with heart disease, you have several providers who each treat you for a different health issue.
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A look into how changes inside the eye, hypertensive retinopathy, can be linked to heart and cardiovascular disease.
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More women than men die of heart disease, and it is the leading cause of death among women. Fortunately, there are a number of things women can do to prevent heart disease and stroke.
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Existing tests for heart disease risk aren't always precise. The search for better tests is ongoing, but hasn't yet produced any strong contenders.
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Research is suggesting that adults should start paying attention to their cholesterol earlier in life. It may be that how soon this is addressed is as important as the actual cholesterol level.
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Hormone therapy may help prevent heart disease in women after all, if the treatment is started closer to menopause. Two clinical trials are hoping to provide more conclusive results.
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Exercise is much more effective than vitamins or supplements at reducing the risk of heart disease. The benefits of exercise against cancer are not conclusive, but it is likely to have other positive effects on overall health.
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Creating a medical family tree can help identify your risk for heart disease.It's not just your genes; habits and attitudes also run in the family.
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It's important to get regular checkups and periodic exams, especially when you have cardiovascular disease.
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Why is there such a difference in treating and diagnosing heart disease in men and women? Says one specialist: "I think there's a belief held by many men and women, physicians and laymen alike, that heart attacks are solely a man's problem."
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By teaching your kids to follow a healthy lifestyle, you can help reduce their risk for heart disease later in life.
Although children and teens usually don't show the symptoms of heart disease, the silent buildup of plaque (fatty deposits) can start in childhood and can have a serious impact on their adult life.
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Many women are unaware that heart disease is a bigger health threat to them than breast cancer.
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Even if you already have atherosclerosis or have had a heart attack, there's a lot you can do to prevent future heart problems.
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The main cause of heart disease is atherosclerosis, which is the thickening and hardening of the arteries.
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Omega-3s are a beneficial and essential form of fat, one that your body needs but can't make.
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Did you know that if you have diabetes, you have a two to four times greater risk for heart disease and stroke than people without diabetes?
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Most of us know that diabetes can lead to severe complications, such as blindness, kidney disease and amputations. But did you know that diabetes also greatly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease?
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High cholesterol is one of the leading risk factors for the development of coronary heart disease. High cholesterol levels can be lowered by diet and exercise or medicine.
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Getting serious about heart health may seem like a huge project because it often means making changes in health habits. It's a major effort for many people, but it doesn't have to be an overwhelming one. Example: All women older than 20 should be screened for blood cholesterol levels. Here are more ways to prevent heart disease.
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A half-million women have heart attacks each year. A common symptom of coronary heart disease is chest pain or tightness, known as angina. It may be the earliest sign of heart disease and usually brings someone to a health care provider for the first time.
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Some risk factors for heart disease are beyond your control, but others, such as smoking or high blood pressure, you can do something about.
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Evidence is mounting that people with periodontal (gum) disease may be more at risk for heart disease and stroke.
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Whether you take prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicine, or both, there are important guidelines to follow to get the most from them.
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If you think that you can't begin a strength-training program because you have heart disease, think again.
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As a patient, understanding the basics of the guidelines can help you take a more active role in your treatment.
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Remote monitoring is the wave of the future in managing heart disease.New technology makes it easier to keep tabs on your heart, and heart disease.
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Inadequate sleep appears to increase substances in the body that are linked to inflammation, a factor in heart disease. Those with heart disease can suffer from sleep problems. Better sleep habits can sometimes help.
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National recommendations for desirable cholesterol levels are now very low. An exploration of why and tips for how to achieve these levels.
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Researchers are exploring how bacteria in the mouth might play a role in heart disease, though there is still no conclusive evidence that the two are linked.
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A discussion about the uncertain benefits of the dietary supplement carnitine as a treatment for heart disease. It is "promising but unproven".
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A brief look at studies suggesting that C-reactive protein (CRP) may play a role in heart disease which will change how doctors use statins.
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Increased risk of heart disease may be shared among siblings.
Brothers and sisters often share traits like facial features, body shape, certain turns of phrase, or a fondness for peanut butter and banana sandwiches. Add heart trouble to the list. A report from the second-generation Framingham Offspring Study indicates that having a sibling with cardiovascular disease increases your chances of having it, too. The increase is on a par with having a parent with cardiovascular disease.
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With the failure of torcetrapib, a drug that its maker hoped would raise HDL cholesterol, people seeking to lower their heart disease risk should rely on traditional strategies: exercise, diet, weight control.
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The statin Lipitor (atorvastatin) reduces LDL levels and frequency of heart attack and stroke in people with stable heart disease.
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Women who suffer from chest pain but show clear arteries on an angiogram may have a different type of blocked artery, where plaque builds up evenly on the inner surface or bulges outward.
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Research shows a deep connection between the head and the heart: An exploration of how psychological and social factors contribute to heart disease.
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Women are at as much risk for heart disease as men are. The American Heart Association has compiled a list of guidelines that offer a number of ways women can reduce their risk.
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People know that they can "prevent" heart disease by not smoking, losing weight, exercising, watching cholesterol and blood pressure, and eating right, but they still get heart disease. Is it really possible to prevent heart disease, or just slow it down?
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The experience of a heart attack can trigger post-traumatic stress disorder, which can delay recovery and perhaps cause heart disease to progress further.
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A study indicates that taking a combination of medications can be more effective in preventing heart disease than single medications alone.
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Advisory ratchets down targets for LDL (bad) cholesterol for some people, not others; no one-size-fits-all recommendation yet.
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A review of a theory that thinner, less viscous blood could prevent heart disease.
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For people who already have heart disease, the American Heart Association has created a ten-point plan for preventing its recurrence. Following these guidelines will strengthen your heart, lungs, and blood vessels and should improve your overall health.
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Practicing transcendental meditation, or another relaxation technique, may help those at risk for heart disease by lowering bood pressure and blood sugar and decreasing stress.
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If you take antioxidants to treat or prevent heart disease, it???s time to rethink this gambit.
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A study found that heart disease deaths peaked each year during flu season, because the flu can trigger a heart attack or stroke. Those with heart disease, and those at higher risk of getting it, should get a flu vaccine each year.
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A Harvard Medical School doctor answers a question about why President Clinton's heart disease was not identified sooner.
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People with schizophrenia are at greater risk of dying from heart disease. This may be caused by insufficient attention to a patient's physical health, but some antipsychotic medications worsen the risk for diabetes and heart disease.
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Discusses the causes of sudden cardiac death and tips for how to prevent it.In most cases, death is the expected conclusion to a difficult illness. Sometimes, though, it comes unpredictably and swiftly. Doctors define sudden death as an abrupt, unexpected natural death that ends life less than an hour after final symptoms first develop in a person who does not have a condition that seems rapidly fatal.
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Long-term studies show a probable link between anger in young men and increased risk of heart disease in middle age and beyond, but excessive anger at any age is bad for the heart.
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A landmark study found that women are susceptible to a different type of heart disease called microvascular dysfunction. It affects both larger and smaller blood vessels, but is not detected by the standard cardiac tests.
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Statins have been shown to reduce the risk of cardiac disease in women as well as in men. They may also reduce the risk of breast cancer and slow the progression of cognitive decline, and in general, their benefits seem to outweigh their risks.
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The decision whether to take a statin depends largely on your risk for cardiovascular disease and a heart attack. A review of statins available, how to calculate your risk, and when a statin might not be the right choice.
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Detailed information on congenital heart disease, including patent ductus arteriosus, atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, atrioventricular canal, tricuspid atresia, pulmonary atresia, transposition of the great arteries, tetralogy of Fallot, double outlet right ventricle, truncus arteriosus, coarctation of the aorta, aortic stenosis, and hypoplastic left heart syndrome
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Detailed information on diagnosing and evaluating heart disease in children Diagnosing and evaluating heart disease in children can be complex and requires clinical care by a physician or other healthcare professional. Listed in the directory below are some means by which heart disease in children is evaluated and diagnosed, for which we have provided a brief overview.
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Detailed information on congenital heart disease and factors that may have caused the defect
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Detailed information for children living with a congenital heart disease Living with congenital (present at birth) heart disease requires special care for your child. Listed in the directory below you will find additional information regarding special considerations that will need to be made for your child who is living with congenital heart disease, for which we have provide a brief overview.
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The following Clinical Topic Tour provides an overview of stroke and was adapted from materials published by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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A stroke is the sudden death of brain cells in a localized area due to inadequate blood flow.A stroke occurs when blood flow is interrupted to part of the brain. Without blood to supply oxygen and nutrients and to remove waste products, brain cell...
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A stroke is an interruption of the blood supply to any part of the brain. A stroke is sometimes called a"brain attack.".Cerebrovascular disease; CVA; Cerebral infarction; Cerebral hemorrhage; Ischemic stroke; Stroke- ischemic.Approximately every 4...
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During a stroke, blood stops flowing to part of the brain. This can damage areas in the brain that control the rest of the body. Get help right away if any of these symptoms come on suddenly, even if the symptoms don't last.
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Stroke is an increasing public health concern throughout the world as the leading cause of long-term disability. There is estimated to be over 3.5 million survivors of stroke in the United States.
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A stroke is an interruption of blood circulation to the brain causing a neurologic deficit reflecting the area of the brain affected. Stroke can be ischemic or hemorrhagic. 1 Ischemic stroke is most prevalent.
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A stroke is the sudden death of brain cells in a localized area due to inadequate blood flow.A stroke occurs when blood flow is interrupted to part of the brain. Without blood to supply oxygen and nutrients and to remove waste products, brain cell...
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This report provides current information about stroke prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation.
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Detailed information on a stroke's effects on different portions of the brain The effects of stroke vary from person to person based on the type, severity, and location of the stroke. The brain is extremely complex and each area of the brain is responsible for a special function or ability. When an area of the brain is damaged, which typically occurs with a stroke, an impairment may result. An impairment is the loss of normal function of part of the body. Sometimes, an impairment may result in a disability, or inability to perform an activity in a normal way.
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including how to respond in a stroke emergency
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including history, statistics, symptoms, types, effects, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation information
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including how to respond in a stroke emergency
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including history, statistics, symptoms, types, effects, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation information
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including history, statistics, symptoms, types, effects, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation information
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including history, statistics, symptoms, types, effects, diagnostic, treatment, and rehabilitation information
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There are various clinical and pathological subtypes of stroke, and identification of the subtype is necessary for correct management. Investigations Imaging Brain imaging should be performed within the first 48 hours of the onset of stroke (see below), to determine whether the stroke is haemorrhagic or ischaemic and to exclude other causes (e.g. tumour).
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Stroke, or cerebrovascular accident(CVA), is the third leading cause of death(after heart disease and cancer) in the United States and the industrialized countries of the world. The term"stroke," which comes from subjects being suddenly"struck dow...
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Getting your life back after having a stroke can be hard work and a slow process. But it's important to know that in most cases, you can do it.
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Women who are obese or who have gained more than 44 pounds since they were 18 years old are about two-and-a-half times more likely to suffer an ischemic stroke than lean women who have not gained a lot of weight.
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Detailed information on a stroke's effects on different portions of the brain The effects of stroke vary from person to person based on the type, severity, and location of the stroke. The brain is extremely complex and each area of the brain is responsible for a special function or ability. When an area of the brain is damaged, which typically occurs with a stroke, an impairment may result. An impairment is the loss of normal function of part of the body. Sometimes, an impairment may result in a disability, or inability to perform an activity in a normal way.
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Cerebrovascular accident(CVA) is the medical term for what is commonly termed a stroke. It refers to the injury to the brain that occurs when flow of blood to brain tissue is interrupted by a clogged or ruptured artery, causing brain tissue to die...
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A ministroke, or transient ischemic attack (TIA), is a brief episode of stroke symptoms caused by temporary interruption of blood flow to the brain. Most people suffer TIAs without realizing it.
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Stroke may cause physical and mental difficulties. But the good news is that you can recoup some or all of your previous abilities.
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More women than men are victims of stroke, and the consequences for survivors are more serious in women. Medication to dissolve blood clots is available, but must be administered within the first three hours after a stroke to be most effective.
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Detailed information on the history of stroke, also called brain attack Hippocrates, the father of medicine, first recognized stroke over 2,400 years ago. At this time stroke was called apoplexy, which means "struck down by violence" in Greek. This was due to the fact that a person developed sudden paralysis and change in well-being. Physicians had little knowledge of the anatomy and function of the brain, the cause of stroke, or how to treat it.
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Detailed information on the history of stroke, also called brain attack Hippocrates, the father of medicine, first recognized stroke over 2,400 years ago. At this time stroke was called apoplexy, which means "struck down by violence" in Greek. This was due to the fact that a person developed sudden paralysis and change in well-being. Physicians had little knowledge of the anatomy and function of the brain, the cause of stroke, or how to treat it.
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A stroke, also called a cerebral infarction, is a life-threatening condition marked by a sudden disruption in the blood supply to the brain.A disruption in the blood supply to the brain starves the brain of oxygen-rich blood and causes the nerve c...
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Strokes often result in long-term health problems, and sometimes death. But there are steps you can take to help prevent them.
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A stroke is a medical emergency. That's why some doctors call strokes "brain attacks.”
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When your loved one returns home, you'll both need time to adjust. You and the patient will have to transfer the skills learned in rehab to a new location. Be patient with your loved one and with yourself. Planning ahead can help long-term recovery go more smoothly.
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The habits and behaviors of a healthy lifestyle can also reduce the risk of stroke: don't smoke, exercise, keep cholesterol and blood presure as low as possible, and eat a healthy diet.
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including types of stroke
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke diagnosis
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including types of stroke
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A stroke, also called a cerebral vascular accident(CVA), is the sudden death of cells in a specific area of the brain due to inadequate blood flow.A stroke occurs when blood flow is interrupted to a part of the brain, either when an artery bursts ...
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Medication to control high blood pressure only works if you take it.Medication to control high blood pressure only works if you take it. If you stop taking antihypertensive medication without discussing it with your doctor, you put yourself at risk for a stroke.
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The carotid arteries are large blood vessels that carry blood to the brain. When these arteries are healthy, the brain gets all the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function well. If the carotid arteries are damaged, however, it can greatly increase your chances of stroke. This is a sudden loss of brain function caused by a lack of blood flow.
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I have a deep muscle massage every month or so. After my sister had a stroke, I started worrying that my massages could loosen any plaque in my carotid arteries, which could make me have a stroke. Could this happen?
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke diagnosis
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke treatment
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including risk factors for stroke
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including signs and symptoms of stroke emergency
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke treatment
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including risk factors for stroke
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including signs and symptoms of stroke emergency
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Stroke is the common name for the injury to the brain that occurs when the flow of blood to brain tissue is interrupted by a clogged or burst artery. Arterial blood carries oxygen and nutrition to the cells of the body.
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Strokes occur when something interferes with the normal flow of blood to the central nervous system. Stroke is the third-leading cause of death in the United States after heart disease and cancer.
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Ultrasound carotid screening for stroke risk is being promoted as a simple detection tool, but the test does not always identify those at risk, and some doctors feel that treating the factors that contribute to risk is more beneficial to overall health.
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke rehabilitation
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Detailed information on stroke, also called brain attack, including stroke rehabilitation
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A tiny wire curlicue that can snare blood clots may help more people get emergency treatment for a stroke.
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A new study suggests an aspirin before bed may lower blood pressure while protecting against heart attack and stroke.
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My father had a stroke that left him paralyzed on one side. He's aware of what's going on and can talk some, but he has severe spasticity in his left elbow, shoulder, and hand, along with muscle atrophy. Would Botox injections help his painful spasms?
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An explanation of the two-way relationship between depression and stroke. Depressed people are at higher risk for a stroke, but depression often precedes as well as follows a stroke.
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The complex relationship between cholesterol and the brain affects many areas, including possible connections to depression, stroke, and Alzheimer's disease.
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The Women's Health Study, released in March 2005, provides surprising new information about the health benefits of aspirin for women.
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After a stroke, the body can often recover some functions on its own if medical care is received promptly, but many people also need some form of rehabilatation program or physical, speech, or occupational therapy.
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This article discusses the drug Plavix: what it does; who needs it; and, the risks and benefits.
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Aspirin is safe for some healthy women over age 65 to take to prevent stroke and heart attack, but probably not for most younger women.
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People who are at risk for heart disease may be fine for some time, until a stressful event or situation acts as a trigger for a heart attack or stroke. Even in those with heart disease, some of these triggers can be minimized or avoided.
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People at risk for heart attack or stroke will likely benefit from taking low-dose daily aspirin, but for some there are greater risks (such as ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding) that outweigh aspirin's help.
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HDL, the "good" cholesterol, helps prevent heart disease, but there is some evidence that suggests it may also help protect against strokes, and possibly dementia as well.
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The benefits of aspirin for those at risk for heart disease are clear, but for women under 65 who are not at risk, there is no benefit to a daily aspirin. There is evidence that taking aspirin regularly may reduce the risk of stroke, regardless of age.
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A Harvard Medical School doctor answers your question about the appropriate doctor to see after suffering a stroke.
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A stroke can cause problems with speech, vision, memory, balance or coordination. It can leave part of the body weakened or paralyzed, among other physical problems.
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The good news about a stroke is that it can be successfully treated. But there's a catch. For the best outcome, a stroke must be diagnosed and treated within about three hours after symptoms begin.
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About 80 percent of people who have a stroke can benefit from some form of rehabilitation.
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Although their symptoms and effects can be similar—and confusing—strokes and heart attacks are two different medical problems.
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Strokes don't have to be disabling or deadly. Knowing the warning signs of a stroke and acting quickly may help you or your loved one escape the damaging effects of a "brain attack."
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Find out how much you know about strokes and what causes them.
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Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), while seemingly insignificant, often lead to strokes within a short time span. If you experience a TIA or have symptoms that suggest one, take it seriously and seek treatment right away.
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Transient ischemic attacks???or mini-strokes???may be a harbinger of more serious problems and shouldn't be dismissed.
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A Harvard Medical School physician answers your question about proper treatment for a transient ischemic attack (TIA).
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Heart disease does not always manifest with a sudden, traumatic event. People who are already taking medication are more likely to experience a less severe attack, such as angina or a minor stroke.
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Stroke survivors often suffer pain afterward, and it often goes untreated. It may be necessary to ask for a referral to a pain specialist.
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A Harvard Medical School physician answers your question about the dangers of a small stroke affecting the eyes.
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Recognizing signs of stroke can speed treatment. Nonmedical personnel can use these guidelines as possible warning signs that a stroke has occurred.
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An expert shares his beliefs about how best to treat and avoid cancer, heart disease, and other chronic diseases.
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Is there any chance of recovery from right arm paralysis caused by a stroke after one year has passed?
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Statistics profiling the occurrence of stroke Consider the following statistics regarding strokes:
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Statistics profiling the occurrence of stroke Consider the following statistics regarding strokes:
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Detailed information on dehydration and heat stroke, including symptoms, treatment, and prevention
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Menopause represents the end of menstruation. While technically it refers to the final menstrual period, it is not an abrupt event, but a gradual process.
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Menopause is the transition period in a woman''s life when her ovaries stop producing eggs, her body produces less estrogen and progesterone, and menstruation becomes less frequent, eventually stopping altogether.Menopause is a natural event that n...
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Detailed information on menopause, including perimenopause, hormone replacement therapy, and staying healthy after menopause
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This report takes a view of the whole woman and helps her choose the most practical strategies for making her midlife transition.
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Menopause represents the end of menstruation. While technically it refers to the final period, it is not an abrupt event, but a gradual process.
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Detailed information on menopause, including symptoms, treatment, and sex after menopause
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Menopause -- when estrogen and progesterone production, ovulation and menstruation stop -- is a natural part of a woman's life. The average age that women reach menopause is 51.
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Medically, menopause is the cessation of menstruation and signifies the inability to bear children. It is determined as one year from the last menstrual cycle.
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Detailed information on menopause, including symptoms, treatment, and sex after menopause
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The best approach to menopause is to follow a healthy regimen. That includes dealing with smoking, nutrition, exercise, weight management and stress reduction.
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Detailed information on staying healthy after menopause While this "change of life" called menopause was once a life stage dreaded by many women, today's woman has an abundance of medical knowledge and resources available to her as she experiences menopause. The key to staying youthful and active is good nutrition and regular physical exercise.
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Detailed information on staying healthy after menopause While this "change of life" called menopause was once a life-stage dreaded by many women, today's woman has an abundance of medical knowledge and resources available to her as she experiences menopause. The key to staying youthful and active is good nutrition and regular physical exercise.
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This irregularity signals the start of menopause. The natural cessation of menstruation occurs due to reduced production of the female hormones estrogen and progesterone, which generally occurs between the ages of forty and fifty-five.
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Today's women understand that menopause is not a disease. It is a normal event; a passage from one stage of life to another.
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A generation ago, hot flashes, irregular periods, and mood swings would have been labeled menopause or "the change of life.” Today, your doctor is more likely to call this perimenopause, a new term for the transitional years leading up to the end of menstruation.
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The average age of natural menopause in the United States is 51, but it can occur anytime between ages 40 and 55.
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Does the process of going through menopause affect cholesterol levels?
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How does estrogen use and menopause affect someone with a seizure disorder?
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Does acupuncture help with menopause symptoms like hot flashes?
Diana Post, M.D., is an assistant professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and a member of the Department of Medicine at Brigham and Women's Hospital.
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I seem to be experiencing premenopausal symptoms and am in good health otherwise. My doctor has suggested NuvaRing for estrogen therapy. I know this is still relatively new. Can you give me more information on NuvaRing for menopause symptoms?
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Detailed information on menopause, including perimenopause, hormone replacement therapy, and staying healthy after menopause
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Menopausal hormone use (sometimes referred to as hormone replacement therapy or postmenopausal hormone use) involves taking either estrogen alone or estrogen in combination with progesterone or progestin, a synthetic hormone with effects similar to those of progesterone (see Question 2).
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What is the oldest age a woman can still take low-dose birth control pills as a form of HRT if no problems exist?
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Is there any connection between surgically induced menopause and fibromyalgia? And does taking estrogen seem to help or hurt the condition?
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This report provides information on using the latest detection methods, understanding your diagnosis, and choosing the most effective treatment.
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Hormonal changes can precede menopause by months or years. The latest information about what characterizes this life change and how to treat its symptoms.
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Studies regarding hormone treatment for women in menopause have produced conflicting results, but there is evidence that starting the treatment in the years prior to menopause may be of greater benefit.
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I had a partial hysterectomy more than 17 years ago. How does a woman like me know when menopause has ended when she has not had a period in so many years?
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Tuberculosis(TB) is a potentially fatal contagious disease that can affect almost any part of the body but is mainly an infection of the lungs. It is caused by a bacterial microorganism, the tubercle bacillus or Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
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Tuberculosis(TB) is a potentially fatal contagious disease that can affect almost any part of the body but is mainly an infection of the lungs. It is caused by a bacterial microorganism: the tubercle bacillus or Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
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Detailed information on tuberculosis, including risks, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment
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Detailed information tuberculosis, tuberculosis symptoms, tuberculosis causes, tuberculosis diagnoses, tuberculosis treatment
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Detailed information on tuberculosis, including risks, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment
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Detailed information on tuberculosis, including risks, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment
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Detailed information on tuberculosis, including risks, symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment
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What are the signs and symptoms of TB? Can the illness disappear after a time if left untreated? Can TB be missed on an X-ray?
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Tuberculosis is a chronic, infectious disease that primarily attacks the lungs.Tuberculosis(TB) is caused by a bacteria that primarily attacks the lungs. An individual may be"TB infected," meaning the bacteria are in the body but are in an inactiv...
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Tuberculosis(TB) is a contagious and potentially fatal disease that can affect almost any part of the body but manifests mainly as an infection of the lungs. It is caused by a bacterial microorganism, the tubercle bacillus or Mycobacterium tubercu...
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Spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord that causes loss of sensation and motor control.Approximately 11,000 new spinal cord injuries(SCIs) occur each year in the United States. About 200,000 people are currently affected.
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Spinal cord trauma is damage to the spinal cord. It may result from direct injury to the cord itself or indirectly from damage to surrounding bones, tissues, or blood vessels.Spinal cord trauma can be caused by any number of injuries to the spine.
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Do not move a person with a spinal injury unless it is necessary to save his or her life. Call 911 and wait for help.
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Detailed information on acute spinal cord injury, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
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Detailed information on acute spinal cord injury, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
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When Dr. Wise Young began his studies, spinal injuries were considered untreatable. But his dogged efforts to find cures have brought hope to thousands of people with debilitating spinal injuries.
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Spinal cord injury(SCI) is damage to the spinal cord that results in a loss of function such as mobility or feeling. The spinal cord does not have to be severed in order for a loss of function to occur.
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Spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord that causes loss of sensation and motor control.Approximately 10,000 new spinal cord injuries(SCIs) occur each year in the United States. About 250,000 people are currently affected.
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Spinal cord injury is damage to the spinal cord that causes loss of sensation and motor control.Approximately 10,000 new spinal cord injuries(SCIs) occur each year in the United States. About 250,000 people are currently affected.
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After emergency treatment in the ER, a person with a spinal cord injury is likely to be admitted to the hospital. Or, he or she may be transferred to a special spinal cord injury center.
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Researchers examining patients with spinal cord injuries found that those with the most severe physical impairments also had better overall states of mental health.
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Detailed information on acute spinal cord injury, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and spinal cord injury rehabilitation
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Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive, and makes too much thyroid hormone(called thyroxine[ T4] and triiodothyronine[ T3]). Hormones are substances that affect and control many important functions in the body.The ...
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This small gland can cause a multitude of problems affecting every system in your body. Here's how to tell if your thyroid gland is producing too much or too little hormone and what to do about it.
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Detailed information on hyperthyroidism, including symptoms, types, diagnosis, and treatment
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Detailed information on hyperthyroidism (Graves disease), including cause, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
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When you have hypothyroidism, your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormone. With hyperthyroidism, the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. A goiter is the enlargement of the thyroid gland.
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Detailed information on hyperthyroidism, including symptoms, types, diagnosis, and treatment
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Hyperthyroidism is the condition that reflects excessive concentrations of thyroid hormones, due to any cause. The resulting hypermetabolic state causes increased heat production and accelerates many of the bodies'' processes.
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Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of thyroid hormones by an overactive thyroid.The term hyperthyroidism covers any disease which results in overabundance of thyroid hormone. Other names for hyperthyroidism, or specific diseases within the cate...
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Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of thyroid hormones by an overactive thyroid gland.Located in the front of the neck, the thyroid gland produces the hormones thyroxine(T 4) and triiodothyro-nine(T 3) that regulate the body''s metabolic rate by...
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Hyperthyroidism is the overproduction of thyroid hormones by an overactive thyroid.Located in the front of the neck, the thyroid gland produces the hormones thyroxine(T 4) and triiodothyro-nine(T 3) that regulate the body''s metabolic rate by helpi...
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Pheochromocytoma is a tumor of special cells(called chromaffin cells), most often found in the middle of the adrenal gland.Because pheochromocytomas arise from chromaffin cells, they are occasionally called chromaffin tumors. Most(90%) are benign ...
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Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor of the adrenal gland that causes too much release of epinephrine and norepinephrine-- hormones that regulate heart rate and blood pressure.Pheochromocytoma may occur as a single tumor or as more than one growth. It...
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Expert-reviewed information summary about the treatment of pheochromocytoma.Pheochromocytoma is a rare disease in which tumors form in chromaffin cells of the body. Most pheochromocytomas start inside the adrenal gland (the adrenal medulla) where most chromaffin cells are located. There are two adrenal glands, one above each kidney in the back of the upper abdomen. Cells in the adrenal glands make important hormones that help the body work properly. Usually pheochromocytoma affects only one adrenal gland. Pheochromocytoma may also start in other parts of the body, such as the area around the heart or bladder.
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Detailed information on adrenal gland tumors and pheochromocytoma, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
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Detailed information on pheochromocytoma, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
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Pheochromocytoma is a tumor of special cells(called chromaffin cells), most often found in the middle of the adrenal gland.Because pheochromocytomas arise from chromaffin cells, they are occasionally called chromaffin tumors. Most(90%) are benign ...
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Acromegaly is a rare condition caused by abnormally high amounts of human growth hormone(HGH). An organ in the brain known as the pituitary gland, normally secretes this growth hormone.
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Acromegaly is a chronic metabolic disorder in which there is too much growth hormone and the body tissues gradually enlarge.Somatotroph adenoma; Growth hormone excess; Pituitary giant; Gigantism.Acromegaly occurs in about 6 of every 100,000 adults...
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Detailed information on acromegaly, including symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
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Acromegaly is a rare condition caused by abnormally high amounts of human growth hormone(HGH). An organ in the brain known as the pituitary gland, normally secretes this growth hormone.
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Lung disease is any disease or disorder that occurs in the lungs or that causes the lungs to not work properly. There are three main types of lung disease:.Airway diseases-- These diseases affect the tubes(airways) that carry oxygen and other gase...
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Detailed information on lung disorders and diseases, signs of respiratory distress, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD), Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis, Pulmonary Emphysema, Acute Bronchitis, Cystic Fibrosis, Occupational Lung Diseases, Pneumonia, Primary Pulmonary Hypertension, Pulmonary Embolism, Pulmonary Sarcoidosis, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Tuberculosis
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When you have COPD, you're more likely to develop a lung infection (pneumonia) with a cold or the flu. To stay healthier, avoid contact with germs. Get prompt treatment at the first sign of illness.
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I have a spot on my lung that was picked up on a CAT scan of my abdomen. I am a non-smoker. What could this be besides cancer?
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease encompases both emphysema and chronic bronchitis. This report covers treatment, medications, surgeries, and many practical techniques and exercises to improve your quality of life.
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What causes lung nodules?
Robert Shmerling, M.D., is associate physician and clinical chief of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and an associate professor in medicine at Harvard Medical School. He is an active teacher in the Internal Medicine Residency Program, serving as the Robinson Firm Chief. He is also a teacher in the Rheumatology Fellowship Program and has been a practicing rheumatologist for over 25 years.
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Cancer is not just one disease, but a large group of almost 100 diseases. It is a genetic disease, with two main characteristics of uncontrolled growth of the cells in the human body and the ability of those cells to migrate from the original site...
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Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Cancerous cells are also called malignant cells.Cells are the building blocks of living things.
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The term "cancer" refers to a group of diseases in which cells grow and spread unrestrained throughout the body. It is difficult to imagine anyone who has not heard about this disease. Most people have been affected because either a loved one, a friend, or even they themselves are cancer survivors.
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Cancer is the end product of a multistep process(carcinogenesis) that occurs over many years. The term"cancer" actually refers to numerous distinct diseases characterized by abnormal cell growth and differentiation.
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With one out of every two or three people at risk for cancer, as suggested by the American Cancer Society, perhaps it comes as no surprise that the topic of cancer and stress are tightly linked. Long ago, man used the fight-or-flight response to survive natural threats, such as man-eating tigers. Today, the stress response has become a complicated dynamic, linking mind, body, spirit, and emotions. Ironically, what was originally designed to help us survive threats now can put us at risk for health problems and disease. But it doesn't have to be this way. Stress can also motivate you to seek help, resolve issues, practice forgiveness, and come to a sense of inner peace. The most effective stress management program, regardless of the circumstances, is based on the idea of balance. Many things can knock us off center, but it only takes the recognition of being off balance and the desire to return to balance that moves us toward equilibrium. First, let's look at some aspects of cancer associated with stress and then focus on ways to cope with stress, finding peace mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
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What if you had cancer and were not offered a new treatment because of your age? Studies show that some older cancer patients are not treated as aggressively as younger patients, or sometimes not offered certain treatments at all. For various reasons, there is a lack of older people enrolled in cancer clinical trials, so it is hard to know if cutting-edge treatments would benefit or harm them. Some researchers believe this is because of ageism, or age discrimination.
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A preliminary list of cancers and related topics was compiled from a wide variety of sources, including professional medical guides and textbooks, as well as consumer guides and encyclopedias. The advisory board, made up of medical doctors and onc...
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A group of diseases characterized by uncontrollable cell growth.Cancer is a family of diseases in which cells replicate at an extremely rapid pace. A cancerous, or malignant, tumor begins its growth at a primary site, damaging surrounding tissue a...
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No matter what your age or lifestyle, the choices you make today and in the future can improve your chances of living a healthy and cancer-free life.
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Whether you're facing major surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, a second opinion can help ensure you're getting the most targeted, effective treatment for your condition.
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What kind of cancer do I have? Is it invasive? What lab tests were completed, and what did they show?
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Detailed information on the most common diagnostic procedures for cancer When symptoms suggest cancer, your physician may request/perform any of the following procedures to help positively diagnose it:
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Cancer is not just one disease, but a large group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled and abnormal growth of the cells in the human body and the ability of these cells to spread to distant sites(metastasis). If the spread is not controlled, ...
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A 4-foot northern pike stars in one of actor Rob Lowe's favorite tales about his father.
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Statistics are often used in news reports or in talking about someone's risk for getting cancer or whether a treatment will work. These statistics can be confusing or misleading if you do not understand how they are used. Statistics are collected and analyzed to help people better understand what is being observed. There are many examples of how statistics are used in our daily life—average temperature, median house price, etc. In addition, statistics are used to understand the probability or chance of something happening—of winning the lottery or being struck by lightning. Statistics help people make a ‘best guess' of any one situation but they cannot guarantee that something will or won't happen.
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Key Points Some cancers depend on naturally occurring sex hormones for their development and growth. Researchers are interested in learning whether the hormones in oral contraceptives affect cancer risk in women (see Question 1).
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Detailed information on cancer, including cancer diagnosis, cancer staging, cancer grading, cancer treatment, cancer surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, immunotherapy, biological therapy, and cancer clinical trials
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Detailed information on coping with a cancer diagnosis in a child Learning that your child has cancer usually gives parents a feeling of their world being turned upside down. Everything in their life may suddenly feel out of control. This is because you did not choose for your child to have cancer. Your initial thoughts may be "How could this have happened to my child?" and "How will we get through this?"
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The Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results(SEER) Program of the National Cancer Institute is the most authoritative source of information on cancer incidence and survival in the United States. Established in 1973, SEER originally provided can...
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If they are unique and are important for growth of the cancer cell, it makes sense to target them directly. This describes the ambitious mission of gene therapy, whose goal is to supplement a deficient, necessary genetic pool or diminish the numbe...
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Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled growth of tissue cells in the body and the invasion by these cells into nearby tissue and migration to distant sites.Cancer results from alterations(mutations) in genes that make up DNA, ...
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Cyclist Lance Armstrong is proof that you can not only survive cancer, but that you can actually resume a normal livelihood, one of his doctors says.
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By Jim Rice As a rectal cancer survivor, I have had several caregivers. An enterostomal therapy nurse took care of me at the hospital after my colostomy surgery; home health care nurses came to my house for several weeks after the surgery; and my wife Gwyn has provided emotional support and physical caring throughout my cancer experience. For the first few months after my surgery, I felt as helpless as a baby because I could not attend to the basic personal duties that are necessary on a daily basis. I was totally exposed in the truest of senses. Having knowledgeable and caring caregivers allowed me to grow from cancer patient to cancer survivor.
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Detailed information on diagnosing cancer in children Unfortunately, there is no single test that can accurately diagnose cancer. A large number of tests are necessary to determine whether a person has cancer, or if another condition (such as an infection) is mimicking the symptoms of cancer. Sometimes, it is necessary to repeat testing if the child's condition changes, if a sample collected was not of good quality, or an abnormal test result needs to be confirmed. The correct diagnosis is necessary in order to determine treatment. In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for cancer may include one, or more of, the following:
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Cancer is not just one disease, but a large group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled and abnormal growth of the cells in the human body and the ability of these cells to spread to distant sites(metastasis). If the spread is not controlled, ...
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Life as a cancer survivor can be as rich and rewarding as you decide to make it. In fact, increased awareness of mortality is all some people need to feel more alive than ever.
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Cancer survivors know how important a job can be to their psychological and financial well being. Here are tips to improve the ability to continue working, as well as some ways to handle workplace discrimination during treatment.
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A Swedish study, over 29 years, finds 33 percent more cases of cancer among obese people than in the general population.
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What sexual impact should I expect from my cancer or its treatment?
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This year more than 145,000 new cases of colorectal cancer will be diagnosed in the United States. In a large number of those cases, the cancer will be advanced. That means they'll be harder to treat. That also means they'll be more likely to be fatal. The earlier colorectal cancer is found, the easier it is to treat. And that makes a cure more likely. You can even prevent the disease if polyps in the colon and rectum are found and removed before they become cancerous.
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Nutrition plays a significant role in the treatment of cancer. In fact, you can improve your overall outcome by eating well. Patients who eat well during cancer treatment maintain their strength better, are more active, and are better able to decrease their chances of infection. Cancer and its treatments, such as radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery, may depress appetite and interfere with how food is digested, absorbed, and used in the body. Adequate nutrients and calories are needed for the body to heal and fight infection.
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August is a popular time of year for vacations. It's summer, the kids are out of school, and the mountains and beaches are beckoning. As someone with cancer, have you ever thought about taking a vacation from cancer? If you're currently undergoing treatment, is it possible?
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Most cancers are easier to treat when they are found in their earlier stages. Doctors find cancers when they are small and normally undetectable by using screening tests such as mammography, blood tests, CT scans, and other tests. Often, doctors recommend screening tests when a person shows no sign of cancer because the tests can detect cancer before symptoms develop.
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Cancer will change your life and the lives of people around you. Your routines may be messed up.
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Cancer is not just one disease, but a large group of almost one hundred diseases. Its two main characteristics are uncontrolled growth of the cells in the human body and the ability of these cells to migrate from the original site and spread to di...
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Although some complementary and alternative methods have been scientifically proven to promote healing or reduce symptoms, many have not.
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When Geri Malter was diagnosed with a retroperitoneal liposarcoma (a rare kind of tumor in the fatty tissues of the abdomen) in 1983, her first thought was, "I need to talk to someone else with this kind of cancer." Unfortunately, it was eight years before Malter met another liposarcoma patient.
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When cancer strikes, you may start thinking about health insurance in a new light. Chances are, you will use your health insurance more than ever before. You also may have more problems with insurance than ever before. Don't be alarmed or discouraged, but do be vigilant.
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Doctors use tests like mammography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) scans to help them screen for, diagnose, treat, and monitor cancer. If you have been diagnosed with cancer, you may have had one or more of these tests. You may have wondered why you had specific tests and not others or what exactly the doctor was looking for.
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Q: What is cancer? A: Cancer is what happens when a group of cells grows uncontrollably and in an abnormal and disorderly way. It is really a result of what happens when, for reasons that are only partly understood, the normal growth-control mechanisms fail. Cancer cells have two properties that make them dangerous: they can invade into neighboring tissues; and they can spread to distant areas of the body, forming secondary tumors or metastases.
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During the last two decades, the percentage of overweight and obese adults and children has been steadily increasing (see Question 2).
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Some studies have raised questions about a possible relationship between vasectomy (an operation to cut or tie off the two tubes that carry sperm out of the testicles) and the risk of developing cancer, particularly prostate and testicular cancer. Such a relationship, if proven, would be of importance because about 1 in 6 men over age 35 in the United States has had a vasectomy.
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Discusses the use of anti-inflammatory drugs in cancer prevention and cites numerous studies on the protective value of NSAIDs and coxibs to a variety of cancers.
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The ins and outs of screening for testicular and prostate cancers, including an in-depth discussion of the benefits and drawbacks of the leading prostate cancer test, the prostate specific antigen test.
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Many studies link exercise with a reduced risk of certain types of cancer. The biggest reductions were for colon and breast cancer, but its effect on other cancers is so far inconclusive.
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Research has found that statin drugs may inhibit the growth of cancer cells in laborotory experiments, but much more research is necessary before any definite benefits can be determined.
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Detailed information the most common types of surgery to treat cancer, including biopsy, endoscopy, laparoscopy, laparotomy, laser surgery, cryosurgery, electrosurgery, and excisional surgery
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Detailed information on surgery for prostate cancer, including the different types and potential side effects
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Detailed information on treating cancer in children The group of healthcare professionals who work together to find, treat, and care for people with cancer is called the "cancer care team." The cancer care team may include any or all of the following healthcare providers, in addition to others:
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Detailed information on the causes of cancer in children There is no one single cause for cancer. Scientists believe that it is the interaction of many factors together that produces cancer. The factors involved may be genetic, environmental, or constitutional characteristics of the individual.
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Cancer is characterized by uncontrolled growth of cells in the body and the ability of these malignant cells to spread(metastasize) to distant sites within the body. If the spread is not controlled, cancer can result in death.
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If you have cancer, eating the right kinds of foods can help you feel better and stay stronger. This means foods and beverages that contain vitamins, minerals, protein, carbohydrates, fat and water.
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Shark cartilage, green tea extract, phytomelatonin — these may sound like strange remedies for cancer, but they are actually the subjects of major clinical trials in progress. The supplements are being tested as treatments for cancer or as adjuvant therapy. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) funds the studies, which are being conducted at cancer centers across the country.
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If you are a parent who has recently been diagnosed with cancer, there are few concerns that seem as important or basic as how to help your children cope with all the stress and changes facing your family. Children are very sensitive to changes in their parents' moods and behavior and may even sense that something is wrong before you even begin talking with them. Talking about cancer and the emotions that arise is not a one-time discussion, but rather a series of talks that will continue through your treatment. There is no way to change the fact that cancer is a serious illness that affects the entire family. In general, talking with your children in a calm, hopeful way, and being able to answer their questions, will help them to accept and meet the numerous challenges that arise. Recognizing and voicing feelings among family members can be the basis of finding strength and resilience for the entire family. The following questions and answers may help you anticipate and respond more easily to changes in your family rhythms and routines as a result of a parent's illness.
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Cancer is a major illness, but not everyone who gets cancer will die from it. Close to 9 million Americans alive today have a history of cancer. For them, cancer has become a chronic (on-going) health problem, like high blood pressure or diabetes.
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When cancer develops, many people need to learn to ask for and accept outside help for the first time. These are good ways to begin:
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Cancer treatment can extend over weeks or months; side effects may come and go.
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If you are an adult who is getting on with your life after a diagnosis for cancer, this guide is for you. Whether your treatment took place in childhood, 5 years ago, or last week, you may share common concerns with other cancer survivors. The purpose of this guide is to present a concise overview of some of the most important survivor issues and practical ideas to help you look ahead. If you are just finishing cancer treatment, the information may prepare you for situations you have not yet experienced. As you read about handling possible problems, keep in mind that not everyone will have all these concerns. If you are a long term cancer survivor, many of these issues will not be new to you. But some of the ideas and resources may add to your own experience.
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After you have been treated for cancer, you will have two ongoing health needs. First, you'll want to take the health steps that doctors suggest for anyone your age. Second, you'll have special needs for caring for your body based on your type of cancer, treatment, and current state of health.
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Cancer clusters may be suspected when people report that several family members, friends, neighbors, or coworkers have been diagnosed with the same or related cancer(s) (see Defining Disease Clusters section).
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You may want more information for yourself, your family, and your doctor. The following National Cancer Institute (NCI) services are available to help you.
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Key Points Follow-up cancer care involves regular medical checkups that include a review of a patient's medical history and a physical exam (see Question 1).
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A guide to the tests available for screening colon, lung, and skin cancers, and how to determine whether they're right for you.
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Cancer is a disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Around the world, over 10 million cancer cases occur annually.
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Cancer is increasingly viewed as a long-term chronic illness, rather than an acute one.
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More people are surviving cancer than ever before. According to the American Cancer Society, almost 9 million Americans have a history of cancer, many of whom are survivors of childhood cancers. Over half of the people diagnosed with cancer are alive five years later, many of them cured. By 2010, it is estimated that one in every 250 adults will be an adult survivor of a childhood cancer. As more and more people survive longer, we are seeing new problems develop from the cancer or its treatment. These problems are called late effects.
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The words cure and heal are often used interchangeably. The fact is, however, that curing your cancer and healing your cancer are two very different things. References to this distinction are found throughout the best of medical literature. Put simply, healing is fundamentally your responsibility and choice, while curing is the domain of the physician or health professional. The physician may support or diminish the healing process, but ultimately, healing comes from within yourself.
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The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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By: Debra Sickles My name is Debra and I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I underwent a radical hysterectomy at the age of 37. My purpose for writing this story is to reach out to all women around the globe so that they will have a better understanding of meeting with their OBGYN on a yearly basis, as I do not feel there is enough emphasis placed on this disease.
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"I wrote the following twhile undergoing radiation for prostate cancer." --Cal Begun
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All anticancer drugs target tumors in some way. Most conventional treatments, however, attack healthy cells as well as cancer cells. As a result, there can be serious side effects from the treatment. A new approach to cancer treatment may help reduce side effects. The new treatment is called molecularly targeted therapy. It takes a more direct aim at cancer cells. And that means less damage to healthy cells.
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The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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By Barbara Bartlein, R.N., M.S.W I wish I could tell you that the whole thing happened because I'm caring and unselfish, but that wouldn't be true. It was 1979, and I had just moved back to Wisconsin from Colorado because I missed my family and Denver wages were terrible. I took a job at a hospice in Milwaukee and found my niche working with the patients and families. As the season changed into fall, the schedule for the holidays was posted:
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Expert-reviewed information summary about the influence of spirituality and religion on individuals who have cancer. Various approaches for management and intervention are discussed.
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Some friends will deal well with your illness and provide gratifying support. Some will be unable to cope with the possibility of death and will disappear from your life.
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Each person must work through, in his or her own way, feelings of possible death, fear, and isolation. Returning to normal routines as much as possible often helps.
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Cancer is not something anyone forgets. Anxieties remain as active treatment ceases and the waiting stage begins. A cold or a cramp may be cause for panic. As 6-month or annual checkups approach, you swing between hope and anxiety. As you wait for the mystical 5-year or 10-year point, you might feel more anxious rather than more secure.
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Cancer can be unutterably lonely. No one should try to bear it alone. Patient, family, and friends usually learn the diagnosis sooner or later. Most people find it easier for all if everybody can share their feelings instead of hiding them. This frees people to offer each other support.
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Some in the family are able to absorb the impact of diagnosis sooner than others. This can create clashing needs as some wish to talk and some need to be private and introspective.
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Many cancer survivors wonder whether having a cancer history will make a difference in their job prospects. Common questions include: Will I be able to return to work? Take time off for more treatment if I need it? Work as hard as I once did? Advance in my career?
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What kinds of feelings are "normal"? There is no "right" way to feel; the important thing is to handle your emotions in a way that works for you. Many survivors find that the key for them is talking their feelings out--with family and friends, health professionals, other patients, and counselors such as clergy and psychotherapists.
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If you are like most cancer survivors, the costs of initial treatment and continuing care are a major concern. What happens to insurance coverage and costs after you've had treatment for cancer?
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Simian virus 40 (SV40) is a virus that infects several species of monkeys and typically does not cause symptoms or disease in them.
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Regular exercise may prevent a recurrence of breast or colorectal cancer, or may decrease the risk of dying from the disease. But the reasons for the benefits are unclear.
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Can cancer be transferred from mother to child in the womb?
Jeffrey Ecker, M.D. is an Associate Professor of obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive biology at Harvard Medical School and a member of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Massachusetts General Hospital, where he practices maternal-fetal medicine.
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A continuous process in which multiple alterations occur in genes that control cell division and differentiation that leads to cancer—the uncontrolled division and proliferation of cells. These genetic alterations are referred to as mutation...
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The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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By Catherine Andrews, NIEHS Contractor, The Sister Study Would I remember the stories told about him as well as if I was there myself?
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By Cathy Lannae Remission is a strange word. I never use it. Bad omen, I think. I don't truly believe that there is remission in cancer, just waiting. Waiting for whatever comes next. Could be a long time or a short time, waiting nonetheless. Webster's defines remission, as, number one: reduction of a prison sentence based on good behavior. That fits, I think. Then, number two: remitting of a debt or penalty. That sort of fits, too, in a perverse, analytical way. Then there's number three: diminution of or a period of relief from disease or pain. Okay. And then number four: forgiveness--as in sins?? Well, three out of four have a temporary status. That's my point. Just waiting… an intermission, you might say.
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The past century has seen many remarkable advances against cancer, a disease known to mankind for thousands of years. The accomplishments of the last 10 years, such as human gene therapy, biotechnology products like monoclonal antibodies, the identification of disease genes, computer-assisted imaging, and the decline in the cancer death rate, all build upon knowledge gained earlier in the century. Throughout the 1900s, medicine and research saw great advances, and cancer research and cancer researchers were full partners in that growth.
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Cancer, not heart disease, is now the leading cause of death among Americans under age 85.
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Two medications, Metformin and cholesterol-lowering statins, have been shown to have some cancer prevention benefits in recent studies.
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Research shows that statin use is not associated with higher cancer risk.Statin drugs like atorvastatin (Lipitor) and simvastatin (Zocor) are so widely used that even a whiff of suspicion can billow into a cloud of concern. If you go by the results of most trials, there's no reason to worry that taking a statin could increase your cancer risk. In fact, some research has found just the opposite: a protective effect, particularly against colon cancer.
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In an interview, a patient who chose active surveillance combined with lifestyle changes instead of surgery discusses the reasons for his decision, and its effects on his overall health and the progress of the disease.
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Detailed information on cancer, including primary and metastatic cancers, and benign and malignant tumors
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Detailed information on cancer in children, including causes, diagnosis, treatment, and coping
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Detailed information on cancer and complementary and alternative therapy Alternative therapy (or alternative medication) is a non-conventional approach to healing. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) are usually discussed together, but are actually two different therapy approaches:
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Detailed information on cancer in children Cancer is an abnormal growth of cells. Cancer cells rapidly reproduce despite restriction of space, nutrients shared by other cells, or signals sent from the body to stop reproduction. Cancer cells are often shaped differently from healthy cells, they do not function properly, and they can spread to many areas of the body. Tumors, abnormal growth of tissue, are clusters of cells that are capable of growing and dividing uncontrollably; their growth is not regulated.
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Seven to eight hours of sleep a night is important for your functioning and well-being. Cancer and cancer treatment can lead to a lack of sleep.
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Loss of appetite is a loss of the desire to eat. Not eating can lead to weight loss. Weight loss can cause weakness and fatigue, which affect your ability to perform normal activities. Proper nutrition also helps your body prevent and fight infection. Weight loss or lack of appetite may be due to the cancer or sometimes to treatments for the cancer.
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Change in taste can be a change in the sensation of sweet, salty, sour, or bitter. A change in the way foods taste may cause a dislike for foods, which may lead to lack of appetite or weight loss. The taste buds are affected by the cancer or its treatment.
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Constipation means being unable to move your bowels, having to push harder to move your bowels, or moving them less often than usual. Bowel movements will be small, dry, and hard. Constipation happens when you get less exercise, or when you eat and drink less than usual. Some medicines cause constipation. Constipation can cause pain and discomfort. Keeping your bowel routine regular and your bowel movements easy to pass is important. Your bowels should move every day with little or no strain. You are at risk for constipation if you have a:
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As someone with cancer or a caregiver for someone with cancer, you have enough on your mind without having to worry about payments and insurance. Unfortunately, some insurance companies may reject claims for certain health services. You do have the option to appeal, however. You can use this letter as a model for an efficient, effective appeal letter. You may also need to enlist the help of a legal professional. Make sure your doctor knows any issues you have with insurance, as he or she may be able to help you.
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Treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation can damage a person's skin, hair, and nails. Many of these changes will go away after treatment ends. But such side effects, particularly hair loss, may also damage a person's spirits. Boston-based makeup artist and esthetician David Nicholas offered some of his beauty tips and the insight he has gained after working with cancer patients for more than 20 years.
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Whether you are a spouse, child, sibling, parent, or friend of a cancer patient, it is important that you never stop expressing your love. Showing how much you care is not only important on holidays and special occasions; it should be done every day of the year. You don't have to spend a lot of money, effort, or time showing someone you love him or her, either. Here are a few simple and special ways to show a cancer patient that you care:
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A "60 Minutes" episode reported on the controversial topic of "compassionate drug use." Some people with late-stage cancer are hopeful about this practice, which allows them to receive new but unapproved drugs after traditional treatments have failed. Could one of these drugs be their miracle pill? What is "compassionate drug use," who can receive it, and how effective is it?
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A diagnosis of cancer followed by intense treatments is a big hurdle for a cancer patient to face. Another, perhaps more unexpected hurdle is dealing with body changes. Hair loss, weight gain or loss, or even severe disfigurements can result from cancer and its treatments, leaving some people with life-long physical and emotional scars. There are ways cancer survivors can cope, but it is not just about putting on a wig or finding the right shade of makeup to cover a scar. It must also come from within.
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The following poems were taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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The following Inspirational Story was taken from Silver Linings: The Other Side of Cancer, published by the Oncology Nursing Press, Inc.
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Drug interactions are changes in the effect of one drug due to the effect of either another drug taken at the same time(drug-drug interactions) or food consumed while the drug is being taken(drug-food interactions).Some drugs are deliberately comb...
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Drug allergies are a group of symptoms caused by allergic reaction to a drug(medication).Adverse reactions to drugs are common, and almost any drug can cause an adverse reaction. Reactions range from irritating or mild side effects such as nausea ...
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Detailed information on different types of drug rashes, including acne, exfoliative dermatitis, fixed drug eruption, hives, morbiliform/maculopapular rash, purpuric eruptions, Stevens-Johnson syndrome
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A drug allergy is an adverse reaction to a medication, often an antibiotic, that is mediated by the body''s immune system. A drug sensitivity is an unusual reaction to a drug that does not involve the immune system.Adverse reactions to medication m...
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If you want to be fully informed, you should read the fine print connected with any drug that you intend to use.
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Drug metabolism is the process by which the body breaks down and converts medication into active chemical substances.Drugs can interact with other drugs, foods, and beverages. Interactions can lessen or magnify the desired therapeutic effect of a ...
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Detailed information on food-drug interactions A food-drug interaction can occur when the food you eat affects the ingredients in a medication you are taking, preventing the medicine from working the way it should.
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Chemotherapy and radiation treatments save lives. They also can bring a variety of temporary but unpleasant side effects.
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A guide to information available online and in print about the side effects of prescription drugs.
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Exploring the causes and treatment for loss of taste, which may result from years of taking high blood pressure medications.
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Can the high blood pressure drugs Vasotec and Toprol affect the libido?
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Parkinson''s disease(PD) is a motor system disorder caused by the chronic, progressive degeneration of neurons(nerve cells) in regions of the brain that control movement. PD causes a decline in the initiation, speed, and smoothness of movement.
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Parkinson''s disease is a disorder of the brain that leads to shaking(tremors) and difficulty with walking, movement, and coordination.Parkinson''s disease was first described in England in 1817 by Dr. James Parkinson.
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Detailed information on Parkinson's disease, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, medication, and surgery
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Parkinson''s disease(PD) is a progressive movement disorder marked by tremors, rigidity, slow movements(bradykinesia), and postural instability. It occurs when, for unknown reasons, cells in one of the movement-control centers of the brain begin to...
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Parkinson's disease is caused by a problem with a small area of your brain. This part of the brain helps control your movement and balance. For reasons that are not yet clear, cells in this part of the brain stop working.
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Parkinson's disease affects muscle control, coordination, and balance, making it harder to get around. Here are some tips to help make these types of movement easier for you.
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Parkinson disease(PD) is a progressive movement disorder marked by tremors, rigidity, slow movements(bradykinesia), and posture instability. It occurs when cells in one of the movement-control centers of the brain begin to die for unknown reasons.
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Some Parkinson's symptoms, such as slowness or stiffness, are so subtle that they may be mistaken for normal signs of aging.
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Parkinson's disease symptoms vary from person to person. Some people may have many severe symptoms, while others have only a few mild ones. Symptoms change over time—different symptoms may occur at different stages, and symptoms may get worse as the disease progresses.
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Parkinson''s disease(PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that causes slowed movements, tremor, rigidity, and a wide variety of other symptoms."Neurodegenerative" refers to the degeneration, or death, of neurons, the type of cell in the brain that i...
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If your symptoms of Parkinson's disease are severe and medications don't help, surgery may be suggested. Surgery is not a cure. It may help relieve some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, mainly tremor and rigidity.
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Parkinson disease(PD) is a progressive movement disorder marked by tremors, rigidity, slow movements(bradykinesia), and posture instability. It occurs when cells in one of the movement-control centers of the brain begin to die for unknown reasons.
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Parkinson''s disease(PD) is a progressive movement disorder marked by tremors, rigidity, slow movements(bradykinesia), and posture instability. It occurs when cells in one of the movement-control centers of the brain begin to die for unknown reasons.
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This report explains the latest drug therapies and surgical techniques for treating this degenerative brain disease.
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Actor Michael Fox has Parkinson's disease, a chronic and progressive illness in which certain nerve cells, or neurons, die or become impaired. Early symptoms are subtle and occur gradually. More than 1 million Americans have Parkinson's, and many wind up unable to walk, talk or care for themselves.
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Your doctor may prescribe one or more medications for you, depending on many factors. These include your age, the stage of the disease, and the severity of your symptoms. Consult this chart, which shows the types of medication and how they help.
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Here are exercises that can help strengthen your muscles and keep them loose and flexible. Ask your doctor whether they're right for you. Your doctor or physical therapist may also suggest other exercises.
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Parkinson's disease can cause changes that make you feel tired, cranky, or depressed. Your health care team may be able to help you or refer you to someone who can. Friends, family, and community groups can also offer support.
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Two drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease have been found to cause heart valve leakage. If you take one of these medications, you should ask your doctor about switching to a safer one. If no other drug is effective, watch for signs of valve trouble.
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Those living with Parkinson's disease have a variety of medications available to them for managing the symptoms, and research into new avenues of treatment is ongoing.
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My younger sister was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at the age of 50. I am having head tremors when not moving. Is there an increased chance that I will develop Parkinson's disease if a sibling has it also?
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Carcinoid syndrome is a group of symptoms associated with carcinoid tumors-- tumors of the small intestine, colon, appendix, and bronchial tubes in the lungs.Carcinoid syndrome is the pattern of symptoms sometimes seen in people with carcinoid tum...
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