Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Identifying Hepatitis A - House call: expert advice on health and fitness
Q Since the recent outbreak of hepatitis A in Pennsylvania, I'm very concerned. Can you give me information to identify the disease and then something about treatment?
A Doctors say hepatitis A, an infectious liver disease, is easily preventable, but about 200,000 cases are reported in the U.S. each year (about 100 of those die from the disease). It is usually the result of poor hygiene, specifically meaning that an infected person can transfer the virus to food or other people if they don't thoroughly wash their hands after using the bathroom.
Nausea, appetite loss, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, fever, jaundice, dark urine and diarrhea are among the symptoms of hepatitis A. People who are infected can infect others up to two weeks before they have symptoms. Doctors my there is no medication to treat it, but vaccines provide long-term protection.
Preventing Alzheimer's - House call: experience advice on health and fitness
Q My mother has Alzheimer's, and I'm concerned I could be a Victim later. Can it be prevented?
A Studies indicate that Alzheimer's disease, a degenerative brain disorder, begins decades before symptoms appear. Researchers now say there is evidence that the risk can be reduced by taking a daily dose of a substance like aspirin or ibuprofen. (Do not begin this regimen without the approval of your doctor.) Specific drugs and eating a low-fat diet can also reduce your risk, doctors say.
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