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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.

I have had kidney stones 11 times. I am depressed all the time and my bones ache. The urologist did a pth test and it was elevated. He sent the results to my primary care doctor who said they weren't elevated enough to send me to an endocrinologist. Can your pth level be elevated and your calcium level be normal, and you still have hyperparathyroidism?

What are side effects of penicilin?

I have noticed an odor similar to sulfur when I urinate. I wonder if this is something that I should have checked. What could cause this?

My son and I were playing and, when he fell on me, his knee hit my ribcage. This happened 3 weeks ago and my rib still feels sore. Some days I feel that it is getting better but the soreness intensifies if I perform ab crunches or if I bend down and pick something up several times. How long will it be before I can expect the soreness to go away and what can I do to speed up the healing process?

What are the possible causes of sudden rapid heartbeat and feeling light-headed?

I'm taking naproxen, and have been on asprin thearpy for a heart condition. What are the potential dangers?

I am 20 yrs old, and for some reason I feel sick every time food is put in front of me. But at the same time, I feel extremely hungry. I have had slight abdominal pain, and my back has been hurting. This has lasted approximately 2 weeks. I have lost 5 pounds, and that drops me to 120. What should I do?

I am trying to research interactions or possible effects from allergies to sulfa drugs. I understand that allergies can cause various symptoms in different individuals, but I'd like some information on some of the more common symptoms observed. Do you know of such a resource or such information?

I have had kidney stones 11 times. I am depressed all the time and my bones ache. The urologist did a pth test and it was elevated. He sent the results to my primary care doctor who said they weren't elevated enough to send me to an endocrinologist. Can your pth level be elevated and your calcium level be normal, and you still have hyperparathyroidism?

In some instances the pth test can be elevated with a normal calcium. However, if you still have concerns regarding your medical condition, a second opinion and referral to an endocrinologist should be considered. I recommend that you discuss this with your primary physician.

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What are side effects of penicilin?

As with any other drug or antibiotic, allergic reactions can occur. They can be moderate to severe and more likely to occur in individuals who have previously demonstrated hypersensitivity to penicillin and in those with a history of allergy, asthma, hay fever or hives. Occasionally you may have a GI symptom, i.e. nausea, diarrhea, etc. In the most severe case, serious complications which require immediate attention usually occur when the drug is administered intramuscularly or intravenously. You should discuss this with your physician so he can advise you of what to expect when using this drug.

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I have noticed an odor similar to sulfur when I urinate. I wonder if this is something that I should have checked. What could cause this?

Urine odor can be caused by certain foods, medications or possibly an infection of the kidney, bladder, etc. It is best to discuss this with your physician to determine if a medical and laboratory evaluation may be necessary to rule out disease.

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My son and I were playing and, when he fell on me, his knee hit my ribcage. This happened 3 weeks ago and my rib still feels sore. Some days I feel that it is getting better but the soreness intensifies if I perform ab crunches or if I bend down and pick something up several times. How long will it be before I can expect the soreness to go away and what can I do to speed up the healing process?

The length of time, extent of the injury and pain are all relevant to the symptoms you have. Rib injuries should be evaluated by a physician since you have a prolonged resolution. Your physical activity will naturally aggravate the symptoms. Consult with your physician to pinpoint what the exact cause of this problem is.

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What are the possible causes of sudden rapid heartbeat and feeling light-headed?

There may be many causes of sudden rapid heartbeat and feeling lightheaded. These symptoms can be caused by heart disturbances, blood pressure change, infection, anxiety, etc. Your age, medical history, medications and other factors can be the cause. It is recommended that you consult with your physician. A medical evaluation and diagnostic tests will help determine the cause and treatment required.

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I'm taking naproxen, and have been on asprin thearpy for a heart condition. What are the potential dangers?

Any history of hypersensitivity to naproxen or other anti-inflamatory medication should be considered - any GI bleeding or ulcers, persistent abdominal pain or dark colored stool should be reported to your physician immediately. You should discuss your concerns with your physician.

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I am 20 yrs old, and for some reason I feel sick every time food is put in front of me. But at the same time, I feel extremely hungry. I have had slight abdominal pain, and my back has been hurting. This has lasted approximately 2 weeks. I have lost 5 pounds, and that drops me to 120. What should I do?

You may have a gastro-intestinal problem. All your signs and symptoms should be evaluated by a physician to determine the cause and treatment. I strongly recommend that you make an appointment with your physician.

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I am trying to research interactions or possible effects from allergies to sulfa drugs. I understand that allergies can cause various symptoms in different individuals, but I'd like some information on some of the more common symptoms observed. Do you know of such a resource or such information?

I suggest that you use such references as the Physician's Desk Reference, which can be found in your local library, as well as the Internet. Use the keyword "sulfa drug allergies" to obtain information. Also use the word "antibiotics."

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.

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