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HealthChoicesFirst
How Glaucoma is Diagnosed and Treated
Glaucoma is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in the world. Glaucoma is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure, in which damage to the eye (optic) nerve can lead to loss of vision and even blindness.
Understanding cataract development and treatment
A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye over time as people age. Cataracts often develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes. The only treatment is to have the effected lens replaced through surgery.
Refractive Laser Eye Surgery and the Technologies Now Available
Refractive eye surgery is the term used to describe surgical procedures that correct common vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. Surgery can eliminate the need for prescription eyeglasses and/or contact lenses.
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Learn from the experts
Q:
How is polymyalgia rheumatica diagnosed?
A:
Polymyalgia rheumatica is diagnosed through considering the symptoms a person presents with, particularly sudden onset of stiffness which makes getting out of bed or off a chair difficult. A blood test may be used to look for markers of inflammation, and sometimes a trial treatment with medication is given to see if the symptoms resolve.
Q:
How do lupus symptoms help determine the best treatment plan?
A:
A rheumatologist is most often brought in to help people with lupus disease manage their symptoms. Your treatment plan will depend on which specific systems in your body your lupus is affecting, as well as the scope and severity of your symptoms. The important element of treatment is that it starts as soon as possible, so you should have any symptoms suggestive of lupus assessed by your doctor once you notice them.
Q:
What can lead to heartburn?
A:
You may be predisposed to heartburn if you are pregnant, or have excess weight around your middle, since it's pushing on your stomach. Things in your diet can also lead to heartburn, like caffeine, alcohol, and chocolate, and certain medications can also cause heartburn symptoms. If you are having heartburn symptoms after starting a new medication, you can check with your pharmacist to see if the drug could be causing this.
