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| • Is
it ever safe to self-diagnose my own symptoms? It depends on
your symptoms and condition. The internet has a wealth of information,
but be careful! Use well respected academic sites when searching for
information. But, it is best to discuss your condition with your health
care provider. • What are some sure-fire cures for viral infections? There are no sure-fire cures for a viral respiratory infection. Tincture of time is the best. There are some prescribed medications that are effective for certain viruses such as influenza. • How do I know when I need to go in to see a doctor? You should seek medical attention when you have chest pain or stroke-like symptoms. Prompt medical attention in these cases can make a difference. It is really important that if you are unsure about your condition, you should see your doctor. • Where is the best place to get medical advice? In this day and age, the internet has a wealth of information. Be sure to use academic sites or those that are peer reviewed by physicians. I like www.webmd.com, www.mayoclinic.org, and www.nih.gov. These provide a good start. • Heart Health: Preventions, Symptoms and Diagnosis – Women: Women present with more unusual symptoms that may mimic cardiovascular disease. Symptoms such as right chest pain and arm pain may indeed be representative of heart disease. – Men: Men usually have more classic symptoms such as chest pain, left arm pain, jaw pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and even abdominal pain. Profuse sweating may occur as well. – Risk factors for both sexes include high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. Smoking is a major risk factor that is controllable. – Seek medical attention if you are concerned and have symptoms. An EKG will be completed, as well as a risk assessment, as well as lab studies. • What steps can I take to prevent sports injuries? Preparation is essential when taking on a new sporting activity. Start slowly and gradually work your way into the activity. Be sure that you have proper instruction when starting a new sport. • What are the symptoms of a heart attack? The classic symptoms include chest pain, left arm pain, jaw pain, shortness of breath, nausea, and even abdominal pain. Profuse sweating may occur as well. But, right chest pain and arm pain may indicate trouble as well. • Dieting: What works and what doesn’t? A good well balanced diet complimented by exercise is key to weight reduction. The most effective diets are low in fats and high in fiber. The fad diets only seem to work for a short while. Research has shown that the Weight Watchers program has a fairly high rate of success with good maintenance of the weight lost. • Does a healthy diet and regular exercise prevent disease? Absolutely. Heart disease, strokes, and diabetes are just a couple of disease entities that can be prevented with a good diet and participation in exercise. • How can I prevent diabetes? What are the symptoms? Diabetes presents with a variety of symptoms in men and women. New onset of diabetes may present with fatigue, weight loss, excessive thirst, and frequent urination. These are the most dramatic cases. Many cases are just discovered on routine physical examination where there is an elevated blood sugar noted on lab testing. Also, glucose or sugar, may be found in the urine. • What are the warning signs of strokes? A stroke may present with a variety of neurological symptoms. This may include a headache, confusion, slurred speech, unconsciousness, weakness, or loss of function of an extremity. Risks for a stroke include high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and smoking. • HIV/AIDS: can it really happen to me? The risk of AIDS and HIV comes with risky behavior such as promiscuous, unprotected sex with multiple partners. The risks from a blood transfusion are minimal in recent years, as the screening process is so thorough. • Depression: is it a disease? Absolutely. It should be approached from this perspective and treatment should be directed in this manner. Treatment may include counseling and medications. Avoidance of alcohol and illegal drugs is essential as well. • Osteoporosis: What can I do to prevent bone mass loss? Exercise and a good diet is a good place to start. Women are at greater risk and my need to supplement their diet with calcium and calcium enriched diet. • Breast cancer: How can I catch it early on? Both men and women should examine their breasts for lumps. This should be done routinely. The incidence is much lower in men. Heredity is an important risk factor. Women should undergo annual screenings and mammography will be ordered by your health care provider in accordance with current guidelines and recommendations. • Colorectal Cancer: Do you recommend the annual tests for colon health? A diet high in fiber helps in the prevention of colon cancer. Some studies have shown that daily aspirin may help with prevention as well. With increased age, your health care provider will provide screenings such as checking your stool for occult blood. Flexible endoscopy will be recommended per current guidelines. • Menopause: is hormone therapy a solution? Yes. Hormone replacement therapy is important. This may include the use of estrogen and progesterone. This must be directed by your primary health provider. |
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