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6 important questions to ask the doctor during routine visits

6 important questions to ask the doctor during routine visits

A simple search online will present hundreds, even thousands of published articles explaining almost all the health conditions, and everything related to those. However, it is still always better to discuss known symptoms, tests, treatments, and outlook for managing any complications with the doctor. This can be an awkward conversation to have with a healthcare professional. But it is equally important to ask the doctor the following questions for planning proper healthcare.

Ask about any symptoms and diagnosis
Health complications present a myriad of symptoms, where many signs are common and easily noticeable. However, it is simply not enough to identify these signs of discomfort. One of the primary questions to ask a general physician at the next appointment is how these symptoms can progress. Also, it is important to recognize the primary symptoms to keep track of them so doctors can plan a suitable course of action. Further, if the diagnosis is genetic or chronic, what is the next best step among available treatments.

What types of treatments are available?
Doctors will recommend the best treatments that may or may not be fully covered by insurance. But never hesitate to ask for alternative treatments and strategies for post-treatment home care. Doctors will consider personal preferences and help plan treatment options that don’t necessarily affect the current lifestyle or career. In cases where surgical intervention is suggested, never hesitate to ask if getting the surgery is the only best option or if there is a possibility to consider non-invasive treatments.

Discuss the best preventive care options
Prevention is always better than cure. Taking an active interest in one’s well-being can prevent multiple health problems from developing or progressing, for that matter. Preventive options usually include an annual wellness exam, where doctors suggest a complete physical and internal body check. All vital body functions are evaluated in this examination. Multiple tests are done to assess delicate parameters like blood glucose, blood pressure, and electrolyte levels. Doctors will even suggest certain immunizations to lower the risk of viruses that impact immunity. In addition, screening tests are done to assess the risk for chronic and critical conditions like cancer.

Ask about insurance coverage
Healthcare costs can put a serious dent in one’s budget and savings. So, it is better to discuss insurance coverage for certain diagnostic tests and treatments. There should be no hesitation in discussing payment options across multiple healthcare providers. If certain costs are not covered by insurance, discuss installment payments and alternative arrangements with hospitals or outpatient clinics.

Discuss future appointments
Follow-ups are the most important step in preventive care. Always ask the doctor about the next routine check-up and the duration one must maintain between these visits. Discuss if there is a need to pre-schedule diagnostic tests for these follow-ups. In case the hospital or outpatient clinic is overbooked, it helps to plan for diagnostic tests that shouldn’t be delayed.

Ask about support groups
Treatment is just the first step to complete recovery. One must consult the doctor to learn more about support groups and palliative care post-treatment. This includes sourcing important literature on known diseases, counseling for post-treatment management, and lifestyle suggestions for a better outlook. Discuss the numerous ways these support groups can be contacted and if there are services that volunteer to provide such assistance. Ask for contacts who can help in case of an emergency post-discharge.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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6 herbs and spices that can help prevent cancer

When dealing with cancer, healthcare experts often recommend a combination of treatment options—therapies, prescriptions, and surgery. Certain lifestyle changes can aid treatment and recovery. This includes eating healthy foods like broccoli, berries, and tomatoes to manage the effects of the disease and strengthen the immune system to cope with the side effects of treatments. In addition to making better food choices, one can consider the following herbs and spices to help manage and even prevent cancer. TurmericThe spice has traditionally been used to manage various health conditions, including cancer. Turmeric can help fight diseases through its anti-inflammatory compound called curcumin. This natural substance plays a significant role in repairing damage in the body. Curcumin can also help treatment options eliminate cancerous cells, reduce the spread of cancer, and prevent the growth of new blood vessels in tumors. GingerThere are several ways to add ginger to meals, including having it raw, crushing it, or adding ginger powder while cooking. Its anti-cancer properties are attributed to gingerol, which is found in large concentrations in raw ginger. One of its variations, 6-gingerol, is considered highly effective in fighting diseases like colorectal cancer. One could drink ginger tea, which could have similar benefits in managing conditions like cancer. Cayenne peppersCayenne peppers are rich in a compound called capsaicin that gives food a spicy flavor. The compound is also said to offer health benefits, including slowing cancer cell growth, which aids cancer treatments. Cayenne peppers may also help eliminate cancerous cells, including those which develop in the skin, pancreas, and prostate. SaffronAnother cancer-fighting spice one should consider adding to food and beverages is saffron. The spice has thread-like structures derived from the Crocus sativus flower. It contains a high dose of antioxidants that help negate the harmful effects of free radicals, which are associated with diseases like cancer. Saffron may help target and kill cancerous developments in the colon or reduce their growth while leaving healthy cells unharmed. The health benefits of saffron may also be observed in other regions of the body, including the skin, prostate, lung, breast, and bone marrow. RosemaryRosemary is a common herb that can help prevent the development of cancer. Derived from the rosemary plant, it contains carnosol, a phytochemical, which may help slow cancer cell growth and regulate the production of cancer-related hormones. Further, carnosol may help improve immune function to help one better manage the side effects of various treatments like chemotherapy. One could add the herb to a variety of recipes, such as roasted potatoes and chicken, to enjoy its sweet, piney flavor. OreganoOregano not only adds flavor to foods, but it is also one of the richest sources of cancer-slowing antioxidants. Just like thyme, the compounds in the herb assist in slowing the growth of cancer. The herb may also help target and eliminate harmful cells that trigger mutations in the body. Further, when meat is cooked at high temperatures, it produces heterocyclic amines (HCAs)—carcinogens or substances that can cause cancer. But one can lower the HCA levels by adding oregano to the marinade.

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Everything you need to know about chronic fatigue syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome is a condition that causes extreme tiredness and fatigue that does not go away even after resting. The causes of the condition are yet to be known. However, there are some theories indicate several factors which include: Viral infection Stress Or several factors in unison Once the symptoms are identified and the condition is diagnosed, treatment can be taken to get relief from symptoms. Understanding all aspects of the condition, including its stages, diagnosis, symptoms, and prevention can help in managing it effectively. Different stages and phases of chronic fatigue syndrome The patients of chronic fatigue syndrome undergo four phases of the condition. Their response towards the treatment can also vary greatly depending on the phase that they are going through. These phases are: Phase I: Crisis or trauma Phase II: Stabilization Phase III: Resolution Phase IV: Integration During all the phases, a chronic fatigue syndrome patient undergoes some physical, psychological, and social changes that are easily noticeable. Diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome No one test can diagnose a patient with chronic fatigue syndrome. This is because the symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome resemble several other health conditions. Therefore, a lot of patience is required for the diagnosis of the condition.
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What you should know about depression

Depression is a mental health disorder that results in bouts of continuous sadness. A clinical mood disorder can lead to physical and emotional suffering, and can also change one’s behavior. Frustration, anger outbursts, lack of energy, sleep issues, anxiety, disinterest in eating, concentration issues, and suicidal thoughts are also common symptoms of this disease. Depending on its severity, the illness can challenge one to lead a normal life, too. Diagnosis There are many different methods a medical professional can use to determine if one is affected by depression. Psychiatric evaluation is the most common way to determine if one is suffering from the disease. The mental health doctor will interview the affected person to understand their thought process, mood, and other symptoms. Some doctors may compare symptoms with the ones listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). This makes it easier for them to understand the condition. A physical exam is also performed to determine if any physical health issue is caused due to this mental condition. Stages of depression Depending on the level of sadness, the stages of depression can be divided into five stages: Stage 1 Even though the signs of mental disease are hard to miss, for most people, it starts with denial.
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Important things you should know about diabetes

The pancreas is an important organ in our body that produces insulin. It is required to help the glucose pass to our cells from the blood. That is how energy is created, which is the fuel we require to function. When the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, the glucose level in one’s blood increases. This can result in diabetes, which can lead to organ damage. Types of diabetes There are mainly three kinds of this disease. Type 1 diabetes It can be most commonly seen in children and adolescents. Having said that, it can occur at any age. The insulin production of one’s body decreases with this condition, and they require daily injections to control their glucose levels. Type 2 diabetes Around 90% of people who have diabetes suffer from this type. It is most commonly seen in adults and results in one’s body failing to properly use the insulin that is produced. It can be kept under control by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but one may also require medicine in the advanced stages. Gestational diabetes This can be seen during pregnancy if the glucose level in one’s blood increases. It can affect both the child and the mother.
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Gout – Diagnosis, stages, and prevention

Gout or gouty arthritis is a form of arthritis that commonly occurs in the joint located at the base of one’s big toe. It can also be seen in other joints and results in swelling, sudden pain, and tenderness. It can happen to anyone and occur at any moment, even suddenly in the middle of the night. The good news is that it can be prevented and treated. Diagnosis of gout Multiple medical tests can be used to determine if one has this form of arthritis. Below is a list of the most common tests. Joint fluid test The doctor uses a needle to collect fluid from one’s joint and test the same under a microscope. If urate crystals are found in the fluid then they have the condition. Blood test For gout detection, the doctor may suggest a blood test. The amount of creatinine and uric acid present in one’s blood indicates if they have it or not. However, the result of the blood test may not always be conclusive. X-ray imaging If one has joint inflammation, the doctor can use X-ray imaging to determine if it is caused by any other reason or gouty arthritis. Ultrasound A musculoskeletal ultrasound test is used to determine if one has gout or any other form of arthritis.

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