Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE Archive
Disclaimer: All information published by "Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE" is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.
|
Hyperparathyroid, signs and symptoms, intervention, test, surgery, causes, prognosis. |
Hyperparathyroid, signs and symptoms, intervention, test, surgery, causes, prognosis.
Parathyroidism is a disorder in which hypercalcemia (elevated calcium levels) is due to hypersecretion of the Parathyroid hormone. This is usually caused by a solitary tumor. In some cases it can be familial (family history). Usually age is 25-50, twice as many females as men, with increased incidence after age 40.
Patients may show no symptoms, and the usual diagnosis is made through a blood calcium test. Patients may have non-specific symptoms, such as fatigue, weakness and mental disturbances. Possibly, joint manifestations may be involved, or there may be a neck mass.
Surgical removal of the parathyroid is the only definitive treatment. Conservative medical treatment is recommended in special circumstances determined by the physician. A highly specialized surgeon should be consulted when surgery is required.
Prognosis depends on the status of the patient, severity of the disease and its effects. Usually with adequate treatment using calcium, vitamin D and other medications, the prognosis is good.
Bleeding after the hymen is broken after initial intercourse is not unusual. Bleeding usually stops after a day or two. If it continues, further questions must be considered--whether your menstrual period has begun, whether you have a urinary tract infection or other problem that can explain continued bleeding. I strongly recommend that you speak to your physician or gynecologist to determine whether a medical evaluation may be necessary.
The symptoms you describe appear not to be serious. The pain can be due to trauma to the cartilage of the nose or the soft tissue covering the nose. A nose fracture would be more painful, however, the only way to determine if there has been serious damage is to see your physician so that an appropriate diagnosis is made.
It is difficult to tell what is causing the pain since you have symptoms relating to three different systems - your bowels, your chest and your uterus. One may or may not be related to the other. Is the chest pain on your right side or left? Have you had a recent cold or infection, or did you have any injury in the area where you have the pain? Your medical history, with a complete physical exam by your physician is recommended for determining what the cause of your chest pain is.
Zoloft, is this a good medication for depression?
Zoloft is a drug indicated for depression, obsessive-compulsive and panic disorders. Usually the dose is 50 mg. once daily, either in the morning or evening. Follow instructions on your prescription label carefully and ask your pharmacist or doctor to explain any part that you do not understand. It may take up to 8 weeks before you feel the full effects of this medication. Do not stop taking Zoloft suddenly without consulting your doctor. Lower doses are used if the patient has liver problems. The patient should be followed closely by their physician for evaluation of their response to Zoloft and for signs of misuse over a long period of time.
Although side effects are not common, they can occur - dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when performing activities requiring alertness (i.e. driving a car) until you know how this drug affects you. Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages because alcohol aggravates these effects.
Other effects that may occur during the first several days while your body adjusts to Zoloft are diarrhea, constipation, gas, loss of appetite, nausea, insomnia, nervousness, visual disturbances, fatigue, headache, dry mouth, sweating, change in food tastes, tremor, thirst, runny nose. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience chest pain, rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, worsening or recurring depression, skin rash, fever, and mental confusion.
Consult with your physician before taking Zoloft if you are pregnant, intend to become pregnant, breast feeding, if you have kidney disease, liver disease, seizures, a history of drug dependence or allergies. Also, tell your physician and pharmacist what other prescription and non prescription medications you are taking (Tegretol, Valium, Lithobid, Orinase and blood thinners).
Additional information may be found in the Physicians Desk Reference available at your local Library.
It is important to know what part of the foot is swollen--whole or in part, in the joints, etc. The fact that the anti inflammatory medication controls it, indicates there is possibly an inflammatory condition. Have you considered consulting with a Podiatrist? Based on his findings and recommended therapy, hopefully a proper diagnosis can be made. Acupuncture may or may not help. It is important that the cause of the swelling and pain are determined before trying it.
Disclaimer: All information published by "Ask The Visiting Nurse ONLINE" is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for advice by your physician. You are advised to consult your physician regarding the applicability of any opinions or recommendations appearing here.
Copyright © 1999 Visiting Nurse Services in Westchester, Inc. All Rights Reserved
