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Q I am a 30-year-old woman with a husband and two boys, and we're just trying to live life to its fullest. But now that the war has begun, we've seen what anthrax can do, and I'm scared about the possibility of a smallpox outbreak. How big could this problem be? R.L., Richmond, Va.

A Described as one of the most feared microbes that could be used as a weapon of bioterrorism, smallpox is a highly contagious virus that can spread through the air, and doctors say it is fatal to about 30 percent of the people who are exposed to it. A smallpox outbreak could be a huge problem that would require public health officials to immediately contain it before it infected millions of U.S. citizens.

Symptoms, similar to those of the flu, usually appear about two weeks after exposure and include high fever, fatigue, headaches, backaches and nausea. That's usually followed by severe abdominal pain, a rash in the mouth, throat and on the face and forearms. Researchers say that about eight days after the rash appears, pustules forms scabs that eventually slough off and leave pitted scars, usually on the face.

There is no treatment for the virus, medical experts say, but the vaccine can protect against infection if given within three or four days after exposure. Routine vaccination for the disease was discontinued in the U.S. in 1972, and unfortunately, the vaccine for the "eradicated" disease is believed to be effective for only three to 10 years, health officials say. So even if you were vaccinated years ago, you're likely to be susceptible to smallpox.

Officials say there are nearly 16 million doses of the vaccine available and plans are underway to produce enough vaccine to cope with a potential outbreak after a bioterror attack.

DIET AND HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

Q I was recently admitted to the hospital for high blood pressure. All I was told was to go on a low-sodium diet. What they forgot to tell me was what I can and can't eat. I haven't been able to find any information on high blood pressure and what should be included in my diet. Can you give me some information that will help me to keep my blood pressure down? D.M., Baltimore

A First, have another conversation with your doctor and ask specific questions about your specific concerns. Your health-care giver, who has been following your medical history, knows more about your case than anyone else and is better prepared to deliver specific instructions concerning your condition. Ask your doctor what's best for you, since every person's needs and limitations differ.

There is a large number of people whose blood pressure can be treated by diet alone, simply by controlling salt intake. But you must be aware that sodium can be found in everything from preservatives (sodium ascorbate) to soft drinks (sodium phosphate) to antacids (sodium bicarbonate).

In today's era of health-consciousness, you can find a wide variety of low-sodium foods for breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is even salt that contains no sodium. Nutritionists recommend a diet that includes bread, meat, dairy products, fruits and vegetables; and also suggest that you steer clear of processed foods, which often are loaded with sodium.

In addition to reducing your sodium intake to lower your blood pressure, doctors also suggest a routine exercise program and efforts to decrease stress levels.

# posted by Medical Information : 2:52 AM