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Your Health Questions
Answered by Professionals

Get expert advice from current physicians on your health concerns, treatment options, and effective management strategies.

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Common Questions

Q

What causes narcolepsy, including autoimmune factors?

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder often caused by the immune system mistakenly attacking brain cells that help control sleep, possibly triggered by genetic factors and infections.

Q

What health conditions make sleeping difficult for older people?

Older adults often have trouble sleeping due to conditions like insomnia, sleep apnea, and other chronic health issues.

Q

What is AXS-12 (reboxetine) and its effectiveness for narcolepsy?

AXS-12, also known as reboxetine, is a medication being studied for treating narcolepsy, showing promise in reducing excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy attacks.

Q

What is cataplexy in narcolepsy and what triggers it?

Cataplexy is a sudden loss of muscle control in people with narcolepsy, often triggered by strong emotions like laughter or surprise.

Q

What is CPAP therapy for Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

CPAP therapy is a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea that uses a machine to help keep your airways open while you sleep.

Q

What is Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder?

Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder is when a person’s sleep schedule is shifted later than normal, making it hard to fall asleep and wake up at conventional times.

Q

What is narcolepsy and how does it affect daily life?

Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that makes people very sleepy during the day and can cause sudden sleep attacks, affecting their daily activities and quality of life.

Q

What is personalized medicine in sleep apnea treatment?

Personalized medicine in sleep apnea treatment means creating a plan that fits each person's unique needs, using their specific symptoms and characteristics.

Q

What is positional Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Positional Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a type of sleep apnea that occurs when a person is lying on their back, causing breathing problems during sleep.

Q

What is the first-line treatment for chronic insomnia?

The first-line treatment for chronic insomnia is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I). It is preferred over medication because it is effective and has lasting benefits.

Q

What is the gold standard test for diagnosing sleep apnea?

The gold standard test for diagnosing sleep apnea is polysomnography, which is typically conducted in a sleep laboratory.

Q

What is the potential for new narcolepsy therapies to modify the disease?

New therapies for narcolepsy are being investigated to not only manage symptoms but potentially modify the disease itself, offering hope for better outcomes.

Q

What is the role of orexin (hypocretin) in narcolepsy?

Orexin, also known as hypocretin, is a chemical in the brain that helps keep us awake. People with narcolepsy often have low levels of orexin, which makes them feel very sleepy during the day.

Q

What lifestyle changes can help manage Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Losing weight, eating healthy, and exercising can help manage Obstructive Sleep Apnea.

Q

What natural remedies and lifestyle changes can improve sleep for older adults?

Older adults can improve their sleep by using natural remedies like chamomile and tart cherry juice, along with lifestyle changes.

Q

What non-pharmacologic treatments are effective for Restless Legs Syndrome?

Restless Legs Syndrome can be managed with non-drug methods like regular exercise, leg massages, and maintaining good sleep habits.

Q

What safety concerns exist for new narcolepsy medications in development?

New narcolepsy medications are being studied for safety, but concerns include side effects like narcolepsy-like symptoms and the need for long-term monitoring.

Q

What social challenges or stigma do people with narcolepsy face?

People with narcolepsy often face misunderstanding and stigma because others may not understand their condition, leading to social challenges and difficulties in daily activities.

Q

When should an older person consult a doctor about sleep problems?

Older adults should see a doctor if they have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or if they feel very tired during the day.

Q

Why is cognitive behavior therapy the preferred treatment for insomnia?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is preferred because it is effective in treating insomnia without the side effects of medications.

Q

Why is narcolepsy often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed?

Narcolepsy is often misdiagnosed or undiagnosed because its symptoms can be mistaken for other conditions and it lacks clear, visible signs like cataplexy.

Q

How to cure plantar fasciitis in one week? What are the effective treatments?

Plantar fasciitis may not be cured in one week, but treatments like rest, stretching, and physical therapy can help improve symptoms. More advanced treatments may be needed for chronic cases.

Q

How to remove external hemorrhoids at home and other cures?

Daflon, a medication, can help treat hemorrhoids, and applying sugar may aid in cases of prolapsed hemorrhoids.

Q

How to treat swollen lymph nodes in the neck naturally?

Swollen lymph nodes in the neck can often improve with rest and hydration. If they persist or worsen, it's important to see a doctor for further evaluation.

Q

What causes lower back pain in females?

Lower back pain in females can be caused by issues with the pelvic floor, hormonal changes, and menstruation-related disorders.

Q

What do hemorrhoids look like and what are the causes?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus, often caused by straining during bowel movements, constipation, or prolonged sitting.

Q

What does ringworm look like and what are some effective treatments?

Ringworm looks like a red, circular rash and can be treated with medications like fluconazole.

Q

What helps with period cramps?

Period cramps can be relieved with heat therapy or medications like naproxen sodium. Both methods help reduce pain by affecting the body's response to cramps.

Q

Why are my feet always cold?

Cold feet can be caused by poor blood flow or conditions like Parkinson's disease and acrocyanosis, which affect how blood reaches your feet.

Q

Why do I have cramps but no period?

Cramps without a period can happen due to anovulation, where the body doesn't release an egg, or due to muscle activity in the abdomen.

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