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158352c3-ea3f-4cea-87f7-ed93cffd3a85
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350539
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Essential tremor
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis Diagnosing essential tremor involves a review of your medical history, family history and symptoms, and a physical examination. There are no medical tests to diagnose essential tremor. Diagnosing it is often a matter of ruling out other conditions that could be causing symptoms. To do this, your healthcare professional may suggest the following tests. Neurological exam In a neurological exam, your healthcare professional tests how well your nervous system is working. This may include checking your: Tendon reflexes. Muscle strength and tone. Ability to feel certain sensations. Posture and coordination. Walk and balance. Lab tests Blood and urine may be tested for several factors, including: Thyroid disease. Metabolic problems. Medicine side effects. Levels of chemicals that may cause tremor. Performance tests Essential tremor test Essential tremor test Essential tremor test One test used to evaluate essential tremor involves drawing a spiral. The spiral on the left was drawn by someone affected by essential tremor. The spiral on the right was drawn by a person not affected by essential tremor. To evaluate the tremor itself, your healthcare professional may ask you to: Drink from a glass. Hold your arms outstretched. Write. Draw a spiral. A healthcare professional who still is not sure if a tremor is essential tremor or Parkinson's disease might order a dopamine transporter scan. This is a special imaging test that uses an injected medicine to show where the chemical dopamine is found in the brain. It can help the healthcare professional tell the difference between the two types of tremors. Treatment Some people with essential tremor don't require treatment if their symptoms are mild. But if your essential tremor is making it difficult to work or perform daily activities, discuss treatment options with your healthcare professional. Treatment options may include: Medicines Beta blockers.
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ae5c081e-2f55-4a80-9f53-fed6e6ffbcd1
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350539
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Essential tremor
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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This is a special imaging test that uses an injected medicine to show where the chemical dopamine is found in the brain. It can help the healthcare professional tell the difference between the two types of tremors. Treatment Some people with essential tremor don't require treatment if their symptoms are mild. But if your essential tremor is making it difficult to work or perform daily activities, discuss treatment options with your healthcare professional. Treatment options may include: Medicines Beta blockers. Typically used to treat high blood pressure, beta blockers such as propranolol (Inderal LA, InnoPran XL, Hemangeol) help relieve tremors in some people. Beta blockers may not be an option for people with asthma or certain heart problems. Side effects may include fatigue, lightheadedness or heart problems. Anti-seizure medicines. Primidone (Mysoline) may be effective in people who don't respond to beta blockers. Other medicines that might be prescribed include gabapentin (Gralise, Neurontin, Horizant) and topiramate (Topamax, Qudexy XR, others). Side effects include drowsiness and nausea, which usually disappear within a short time. Tranquilizers. Healthcare professionals may use benzodiazepines such as clonazepam (Klonopin) to treat people whose tremors worsen with tension or anxiety. Side effects can include fatigue or mild sedation. These medicines should be used with caution because they can be habit-forming. Nerve-blocking injections. Injections with onabotulinumtoxinA, also known as Botox, might be useful in treating some types of tremors, especially head and voice tremors. Botox injections can improve tremors for up to three months at a time. However, if Botox is used to treat hand tremors, it can cause weakness in the fingers.
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2025-05-14
| 391 |
ea1e08f3-34bc-43b8-9505-f501764d793b
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350539
|
Essential tremor
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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These medicines should be used with caution because they can be habit-forming. Nerve-blocking injections. Injections with onabotulinumtoxinA, also known as Botox, might be useful in treating some types of tremors, especially head and voice tremors. Botox injections can improve tremors for up to three months at a time. However, if Botox is used to treat hand tremors, it can cause weakness in the fingers. If Botox is used to treat voice tremors, it can cause a hoarse voice and difficulty swallowing. Therapy Healthcare professionals might suggest physical or occupational therapy. Physical therapists can teach you exercises to improve your muscle strength, control and coordination. Occupational therapists can help you adapt to living with essential tremor. Therapists might suggest adaptive devices to reduce the effect of tremors on your daily activities. These devices may include: Heavier glasses and utensils. Wrist weights. Wider, heavier writing tools, such as wide-grip pens. Nerve stimulation devices A wearable electronic peripheral nerve stimulation device (Cala Trio, Cala kIQ) is a newer treatment option for people with essential tremor. The device is worn as a wristband for 40 minutes twice a day. It works by stimulating nerves and muscles to create a muscle response that reduces tremors. Studies have found that the device can bring some improvement for tremors. Surgery Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation involves putting an electrode deep within the brain. The amount of stimulation delivered by the electrode is controlled by a device placed under the skin in the chest. A wire that travels under the skin connects the device to the electrode. Surgery might be an option if your tremors are severely disabling and you don't respond to medicines. Deep brain stimulation. This is the most common type of surgery for essential tremor.
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2025-05-14
| 381 |
06c72ee7-48c8-42a3-9ebf-173bc2c8cde7
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350539
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Essential tremor
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
|
Surgery Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation involves putting an electrode deep within the brain. The amount of stimulation delivered by the electrode is controlled by a device placed under the skin in the chest. A wire that travels under the skin connects the device to the electrode. Surgery might be an option if your tremors are severely disabling and you don't respond to medicines. Deep brain stimulation. This is the most common type of surgery for essential tremor. It involves putting a long, thin electrical probe into the part of the brain that causes the tremors, known as the thalamus. A wire from the probe runs under the skin to a device called a neurostimulator that's placed under the skin in the chest. This device sends painless electrical pulses to interrupt signals from the thalamus that may be causing the tremors. Side effects of deep brain stimulation can include equipment malfunction and problems with motor control, speech or balance. Headaches and weakness also may be side effects. After some time or adjustment of the device, side effects often go away. Focused ultrasound thalamotomy. This noninvasive surgery involves using focused sound waves that travel through the skin and skull. The waves generate heat to destroy brain tissue in a specific area of the thalamus to stop a tremor. A surgeon uses MRI to target the correct area of the brain and to be sure the sound waves are generating the exact amount of heat needed for the procedure. Focused ultrasound thalamotomy is done on one side of the brain. The surgery affects the other side of the body from the one where it's done. Focused ultrasound thalamotomy creates a lesion that can result in permanent changes to brain function. Some people have experienced altered sensation, trouble with walking or difficulty with movement. However, most complications go away on their own or are mild enough that they don't interfere with quality of life. Lifestyle and home remedies To reduce or relieve tremors: Avoid caffeine.
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2025-05-14
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cc703937-71ce-4691-af8f-6204175c6513
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350539
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Essential tremor
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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The surgery affects the other side of the body from the one where it's done. Focused ultrasound thalamotomy creates a lesion that can result in permanent changes to brain function. Some people have experienced altered sensation, trouble with walking or difficulty with movement. However, most complications go away on their own or are mild enough that they don't interfere with quality of life. Lifestyle and home remedies To reduce or relieve tremors: Avoid caffeine. Caffeine and other stimulants can increase tremors. Use alcohol sparingly, if at all. Some people notice that their tremors improve slightly after they drink alcohol, but drinking isn't a good solution. Tremors tend to worsen once the effects of alcohol wear off. Also, more alcohol eventually is needed to relieve tremors, which can lead to alcohol use disorder. Learn to relax. Stress and anxiety tend to make tremors worse. Being relaxed may improve tremors. You can't rid your life of all stress. But you can change how you react to stressful situations using a range of relaxation techniques, such as massage or meditation. Make lifestyle changes. Use the hand that is less affected by tremor more often. Find ways to avoid writing, such as using online banking and debit cards instead of writing checks. Try voice-activated commands on your smartphone and speech-recognition software on your computer. Coping and support For many people, essential tremor can have serious social and psychological consequences. If the effects of essential tremor make it difficult to live your life as fully as you once did, consider joining a support group. Support groups aren't for everyone, but you might find it helpful to have the encouragement of people who understand what you're going through. Or see a counselor or social worker who can help you meet the challenges of living with essential tremor. Preparing for your appointment You'll likely start by seeing your primary healthcare professional.
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2025-05-14
| 383 |
f8f7f10d-2afd-49fb-85c1-86b4b340933a
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350539
|
Essential tremor
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diagnosis-treatment
|
mayo
|
If the effects of essential tremor make it difficult to live your life as fully as you once did, consider joining a support group. Support groups aren't for everyone, but you might find it helpful to have the encouragement of people who understand what you're going through. Or see a counselor or social worker who can help you meet the challenges of living with essential tremor. Preparing for your appointment You'll likely start by seeing your primary healthcare professional. Or you might be referred to a doctor trained in brain and nervous system conditions, called a neurologist. Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointment. What you can do Be aware of anything you need to do ahead of time. At the time you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet. Write down symptoms you have, including any that may not seem related to the reason you scheduled the appointment. Write down important personal information, including major stresses or recent life changes. Make a list of all medicines, vitamins and supplements you're taking and the doses. Take a family member or friend along. Sometimes it can be hard to remember all the information provided during an appointment. Someone who goes with you may remember something that you missed or forgot. Write down questions to ask your healthcare team. Your time with your healthcare team is limited, so preparing a list of questions can help you make the most of your time together. List your questions from most important to least important in case time runs out. For essential tremor, some basic questions to ask include: What's the most likely cause of my symptoms? Are there other possible causes? What tests do I need? How does essential tremor usually progress? What treatments are available, and which do you recommend? I have other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together? Are there restrictions I need to follow? Should I see a specialist? If so, whom do you recommend?
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2025-05-14
| 397 |
e5757375-5af7-470d-86e4-b806b21601ad
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/essential-tremor/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350539
|
Essential tremor
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diagnosis-treatment
|
mayo
|
For essential tremor, some basic questions to ask include: What's the most likely cause of my symptoms? Are there other possible causes? What tests do I need? How does essential tremor usually progress? What treatments are available, and which do you recommend? I have other health conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together? Are there restrictions I need to follow? Should I see a specialist? If so, whom do you recommend? Are there brochures or other printed materials I can have? What websites do you recommend? Don't hesitate to ask other questions. What to expect from your doctor Be prepared to answer questions, such as: When did your symptoms begin? Do you have a family history of tremor? Have you ever had a head injury? What parts of your body are affected? Does anything make your tremors better or worse?
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2025-05-14
| 174 |
1a7291f3-8870-445f-b6a2-f25eca18075b
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophagitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361264
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Esophagitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis Upper endoscopy Upper endoscopy Upper endoscopy During an upper endoscopy, a healthcare professional inserts a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera down the throat and into the esophagus. The tiny camera provides a view of the esophagus, stomach and the beginning of the small intestine, called the duodenum. Diagnosis involves the steps that your healthcare professional takes to find out if you have esophagitis. Your main healthcare professional or a specialist asks you about your symptoms and gives you a physical exam. You also may need one or more tests. These tests may include the following: Endoscopy Endoscopy is a test that's used to check the digestive system. A healthcare professional guides a long, thin tube equipped with a tiny camera down the throat and into the esophagus. This tool is called an endoscope. Your healthcare professional can use an endoscope to see if the esophagus looks different than usual. Small tissue samples may be taken for testing. This is called a biopsy. The esophagus may look different depending on the cause of the swelling, such as medicine-induced or reflux esophagitis. Before this test, you receive medicine that helps you relax. Esophageal capsule This test can be done in the healthcare professional's office. It involves swallowing a capsule attached to a string. The capsule dissolves in the stomach and releases a sponge. The healthcare professional pulls the sponge out of the mouth with the string. As the sponge is pulled out, it samples the tissues of the esophagus. This may help your healthcare professional figure out how inflamed your esophagus is without doing an endoscopy. Barium X-ray This test involves drinking a solution or taking a pill that contains a compound called barium. Barium coats the lining of the esophagus and the stomach so that they show up on images taken.
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2025-05-14
| 387 |
59bc8a95-950f-4caa-98b1-ef8c2929c51d
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophagitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361264
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Esophagitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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The healthcare professional pulls the sponge out of the mouth with the string. As the sponge is pulled out, it samples the tissues of the esophagus. This may help your healthcare professional figure out how inflamed your esophagus is without doing an endoscopy. Barium X-ray This test involves drinking a solution or taking a pill that contains a compound called barium. Barium coats the lining of the esophagus and the stomach so that they show up on images taken. The images can help healthcare professionals find narrowing of the esophagus and other changes in structure. The images also can help spot a hiatal hernia, tumors or other conditions that may be causing symptoms. Laboratory tests Small tissue samples removed during an endoscopic exam are sent to the lab for testing. Depending on the suspected cause of the condition, tests may be used to: Diagnose an infection caused by a bacterium, a virus or a fungus. Find out if allergy-related white blood cells called eosinophils have built up in the esophagus. Spot cells that aren't regular. Such cells may be clues of esophageal cancer or changes that raise the risk of cancer. Treatment Treatments for esophagitis are intended to lessen symptoms, manage complications and treat the causes of the condition. Treatment methods vary based on the cause of esophagitis. Reflux esophagitis Treatment for reflux esophagitis may include: Medicines available without a prescription. These include antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, others); medicines called H-2-receptor blockers that lower stomach acid, such as cimetidine (Tagamet HB); and medicines called proton pump inhibitors that block stomach acid and heal the esophagus, such as lansoprazole (Prevacid 24 HR) and omeprazole (Prilosec OTC), among others. Prescription medicines.
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2025-05-14
| 388 |
218ad82d-2b4e-4489-82ef-9e48897961ce
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophagitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361264
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Esophagitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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These include antacids (Maalox, Mylanta, others); medicines called H-2-receptor blockers that lower stomach acid, such as cimetidine (Tagamet HB); and medicines called proton pump inhibitors that block stomach acid and heal the esophagus, such as lansoprazole (Prevacid 24 HR) and omeprazole (Prilosec OTC), among others. Prescription medicines. These include prescription-strength H-2-receptor blockers and proton pump inhibitors. Surgery. A type of surgery called fundoplication may improve the condition of the esophagus if other treatments don't work. The surgeon wraps a portion of the stomach around the valve that separates the esophagus and stomach. This valve is called the lower esophageal sphincter. This surgery can strengthen the sphincter and prevent acid from backing up into the esophagus. Eosinophilic esophagitis Treatment for eosinophilic esophagitis involves staying away from the allergen that trigger symptoms. Treatment also involves easing the allergic reaction with medicines. Medicines may include: Proton pump inhibitors. Your healthcare professional likely will first prescribe a proton pump inhibitor. You might take one such as esomeprazole (Nexium), lansoprazole (Prevacid), omeprazole (Prilosec) or pantoprazole (Protonix). Steroids. Some studies show that swallowed steroids may act on the surface tissue of the esophagus to treat eosinophilic esophagitis. One steroid called budesonide (Eohilia) comes in a liquid form. Another steroid called fluticasone is sprayed into the mouth and then swallowed. Your healthcare professional can tell you how to swallow the steroid solution so that it coats your esophagus.
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2025-05-14
| 377 |
b508bd45-0204-42fd-9ff8-035b575ac292
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophagitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361264
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Esophagitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Steroids. Some studies show that swallowed steroids may act on the surface tissue of the esophagus to treat eosinophilic esophagitis. One steroid called budesonide (Eohilia) comes in a liquid form. Another steroid called fluticasone is sprayed into the mouth and then swallowed. Your healthcare professional can tell you how to swallow the steroid solution so that it coats your esophagus. Swallowing a steroid solution is much less likely to cause serious side effects compared with taking steroid pills by mouth. Elimination and elemental diets. A reaction to a food allergen is likely the cause of eosinophilic esophagitis. So it may help to stop eating the food that seems to cause the allergy. Standard allergy tests can't tell you for sure if you're allergic to a certain food. For that reason, your healthcare professional may recommend that you remove common food allergens from your diet. Then you can slowly add foods back into your diet and note when symptoms come back. This is known as an elimination diet. It needs to be done with guidance from your healthcare professional. A more restrictive method is to remove all food from your diet for a time. Your healthcare professional replaces food with an amino acid-based formula. Over time, you slowly get back to eating food. This is called an elemental diet. It also must be done under the watch of a healthcare professional. Monoclonal antibodies. This type of medicine works to block the action of certain proteins in the body that cause inflammation. A monoclonal antibody called dupilumab (Dupixent) may be a treatment option for people age 12 and older with eosinophilic esophagitis. Dupilumab is given as an injection every week or every two weeks depending on your weight. Medicine-induced esophagitis Treatment for medicine-induced esophagitis involves not using the problem medicine when possible.
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2025-05-14
| 391 |
5f41bd3a-278c-4a9b-85ef-bbfd55de9a24
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophagitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361264
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Esophagitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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This type of medicine works to block the action of certain proteins in the body that cause inflammation. A monoclonal antibody called dupilumab (Dupixent) may be a treatment option for people age 12 and older with eosinophilic esophagitis. Dupilumab is given as an injection every week or every two weeks depending on your weight. Medicine-induced esophagitis Treatment for medicine-induced esophagitis involves not using the problem medicine when possible. It also involves lowering the risk of this condition with proper pill-taking habits. Your healthcare professional may recommend: Taking a different medicine that is less likely to cause medicine-induced esophagitis. Taking a liquid version of a medicine if possible. Sitting or standing for at least 30 minutes after taking a pill. Drinking an entire glass of water with a pill. But this option isn't right for everyone. For instance, some people need to drink less fluid because of another condition, such as kidney disease. Infectious esophagitis Your healthcare professional may prescribe medicine to treat an infection that causes infectious esophagitis. Medicines can help clear up infections from viruses, bacteria or fungi. Treating common complications A doctor called a gastroenterologist who treats digestive conditions may use medical tools to expand the esophagus. This treatment is called esophageal dilation. It tends to be used only if the esophagus becomes very narrow or if food becomes stuck in the esophagus. During esophageal dilation, your healthcare professional guides small narrow tubes through the esophagus. Versions of these devices may be equipped with: A tapered tip that starts with a rounded point that gradually widens. A balloon that can be expanded after it's placed in the esophagus. Clinical trials Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition.
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2025-05-14
| 383 |
05f16e98-4599-43f5-b8a1-20609714acd3
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophagitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361264
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Esophagitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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During esophageal dilation, your healthcare professional guides small narrow tubes through the esophagus. Versions of these devices may be equipped with: A tapered tip that starts with a rounded point that gradually widens. A balloon that can be expanded after it's placed in the esophagus. Clinical trials Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. Lifestyle and home remedies Depending on the type of esophagitis you have, you may lessen symptoms or stop recurring problems by following these steps: Do not eat foods that may make reflux worse. Consuming large amounts of certain foods or drinks may make symptoms of acid reflux worse. These can include alcohol, drinks with caffeine, chocolate and mint-flavored foods. Use proper pill-taking habits. Take a pill with plenty of water and before eating a meal. Don't lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking a pill. Lose extra weight. Talk with your healthcare professional about a diet and exercise routine to help you lose weight and stay at a healthy weight. If you smoke, quit. You can ask your healthcare professional to help you end a smoking habit. Try not to stoop or bend, especially soon after eating. Do not lie down after eating. Wait at least three hours after eating to lie down or go to bed. Raise the head of your bed. Place wooden blocks under your bed to raise the head. Aim to raise it 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters). If it's not possible to elevate your bed, place a wedge between your mattress and box spring. This raises your body from the waist up. Raising your head by using only pillows doesn't work. Alternative medicine No complementary or alternative medicines are proved to treat esophagitis. Still, some of these treatments may help ease heartburn or reflux symptoms. Options may include ginger, chamomile and slippery elm.
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2025-05-14
| 393 |
a7302d10-76e4-486a-b5ef-3005e53d9fe0
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophagitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361264
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Esophagitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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If it's not possible to elevate your bed, place a wedge between your mattress and box spring. This raises your body from the waist up. Raising your head by using only pillows doesn't work. Alternative medicine No complementary or alternative medicines are proved to treat esophagitis. Still, some of these treatments may help ease heartburn or reflux symptoms. Options may include ginger, chamomile and slippery elm. But supplements such as these do not replace the treatment that your healthcare professional recommends. Talk with your healthcare professional before you try any alternative treatment for GERD. Preparing for your appointment Get emergency care if you have severe chest pain that lasts more than a few minutes. Also get emergency care if you think you have food lodged in your esophagus or you can't swallow. If you have other symptoms of esophagitis, you'll likely start by seeing your main healthcare professional. You may be referred to a doctor who checks for and treats digestive conditions, called a gastroenterologist. Or you may be referred to an allergy doctor, called an allergist. Preparing for your appointment with your healthcare professional or a specialist can help you make the best use of your time. What you can do Make a list ahead of time, including: Your symptoms , including any that may not seem related to pain, trouble swallowing or reflux. Key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes. Medicines that you're taking, including vitamins and other supplements. Family history of allergies and conditions of the esophagus or stomach. Questions to ask your healthcare professional. List questions from most important to least important in case time runs out. If you think you have symptoms of esophagitis, you may ask some of the following: What tests do I need to find out if I have esophagitis? Do I need to do anything special to prepare for these tests? How long will it take to find out the results of tests?
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2025-05-14
| 394 |
028f59d0-7255-4d9e-9e62-2d9c2eaf6b25
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophagitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361264
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Esophagitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Family history of allergies and conditions of the esophagus or stomach. Questions to ask your healthcare professional. List questions from most important to least important in case time runs out. If you think you have symptoms of esophagitis, you may ask some of the following: What tests do I need to find out if I have esophagitis? Do I need to do anything special to prepare for these tests? How long will it take to find out the results of tests? What treatments are available, and which do you recommend? How will we know if the treatment is working? Will I need follow-up tests? What steps can I take on my own to prevent symptoms from happening again? I have other medical conditions. How can I best manage these conditions together? What to expect from your doctor Your healthcare professional is likely to ask you many questions. Being ready to answer them may save time to go over points you want to spend more time on. Your healthcare professional may ask: How bad is your pain or discomfort? Do you have trouble swallowing? How often do you notice symptoms? Does anything seem to trigger your symptoms or make them worse, such as certain foods? Does anything ease symptoms, such as taking antacids available without a prescription or not eating certain foods? Are symptoms worse at certain times of the day? Do your symptoms start soon after taking any medicines? If so, which medicines? Do you have any allergies, and do you take any allergy medicine? Have you ever had food get stuck in your throat after swallowing? Do you ever have food come back up after swallowing? Do you have a family history of digestive problems? What you can do in the meantime If you know that certain foods trigger your symptoms or make them worse, don't eat those foods. Common triggers include spicy foods, drinks with caffeine and alcohol. Taking antacids sold without a prescription may ease your symptoms for a short time.
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2025-05-14
| 387 |
e81c3bb1-0192-4164-b2b8-1b2c06fa6397
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophagitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361264
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Esophagitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Have you ever had food get stuck in your throat after swallowing? Do you ever have food come back up after swallowing? Do you have a family history of digestive problems? What you can do in the meantime If you know that certain foods trigger your symptoms or make them worse, don't eat those foods. Common triggers include spicy foods, drinks with caffeine and alcohol. Taking antacids sold without a prescription may ease your symptoms for a short time. If you think that your symptoms are related to a prescription medicine, don't stop taking the medicine. Talk with healthcare professional first. If you can, limit the use of medicines you take without a prescription that could be causing symptoms. When you take pills, drink a glass of water. Don't lie down for at least 30 minutes after you take a pill. Oct. 29, 2024
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2025-05-14
| 171 |
900ae601-688d-450e-98f9-41d6a4d10e8b
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/parvovirus-infection/symptoms-causes/syc-20376085
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Parvovirus infection
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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The human parvovirus B19 causes parvovirus infection. This is different from the parvovirus seen in dogs and cats, so you can't get the infection from a pet or vice versa. Human parvovirus infection is most common among elementary school-age children during outbreaks in the winter and spring months, but anyone can become ill with it anytime of the year. It spreads from person to person, just like a cold, often through breathing, coughing and saliva, so it can spread through contact between people and hand-to-hand contact. Parvovirus infection can also spread through blood. An infected pregnant woman can pass the virus to her baby. The illness is contagious in the week before the rash appears. Once the rash appears, you or your child are no longer considered contagious and don't need to be isolated.
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2025-05-14
| 171 |
4986e9d0-b2d1-438c-a9ef-861c676f30d8
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-spasms/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372255
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Esophageal spasms
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis Upper endoscopy Upper endoscopy Upper endoscopy During an upper endoscopy, a healthcare professional inserts a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera down the throat and into the esophagus. The tiny camera provides a view of the esophagus, stomach and the beginning of the small intestine, called the duodenum. To diagnose esophageal spasms, a healthcare professional may recommend: Upper endoscopy. An upper endoscopy uses a tiny camera on the end of a flexible tube to visually examine the upper digestive system. Endoscopy also can be used to collect a sample of tissue to be tested for other esophageal diseases. This tissue sample is known as a biopsy. X-rays of the upper digestive system, also called an esophagram. X-rays are taken after drinking a chalky liquid that coats and fills the inside lining of the digestive tract. The coating allows a specialist to see a silhouette of the esophagus, stomach and upper intestine. Some people may experience loose stools for 1 to 2 days after this test. Esophageal manometry. This test measures the rhythmic muscle contractions in the esophagus when swallowing; the coordination and force exerted by the esophagus muscles; and how well the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes or opens during a swallow. Treatment Treatment depends on how often the esophageal spasms happen and how bad they are. If the spasms only happen now and then, a healthcare professional might first recommend avoiding extremely hot or cold foods to see if that relieves symptoms. If your spasms make it difficult to eat or drink, your provider might recommend: Managing any underlying conditions. Esophageal spasms are sometimes associated with conditions such as heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A healthcare professional might recommend a proton pump inhibitor to treat GERD.
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9ef26bfd-4f44-41b4-acc2-83dfa62aaa55
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-spasms/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372255
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Esophageal spasms
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diagnosis-treatment
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If the spasms only happen now and then, a healthcare professional might first recommend avoiding extremely hot or cold foods to see if that relieves symptoms. If your spasms make it difficult to eat or drink, your provider might recommend: Managing any underlying conditions. Esophageal spasms are sometimes associated with conditions such as heartburn or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). A healthcare professional might recommend a proton pump inhibitor to treat GERD. Sometimes an antidepressant, such as imipramine, may be prescribed. This medicine may help reduce the feeling of pain in the esophagus. Medicines to relax your swallowing muscles. Peppermint oil, onabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) injections into the esophagus or calcium channel blockers, such as diltiazem (Cardizem, Tiazac, others), can make spasms less severe. Surgery (myotomy). If medicine doesn't work, a healthcare professional might recommend a procedure that involves cutting the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus. This procedure, called a myotomy, can help weaken esophageal contractions. Long-term studies of this approach aren't available, so myotomy generally isn't recommended for esophageal spasms. However, it might be considered if other treatments don't work. Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM). The POEM procedure is minimally invasive. This newer technique involves placing an endoscope through the mouth and down the throat. This allows a surgeon to make a cut in the inside lining of the esophagus. Then, as in standard myotomy, the surgeon cuts the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus. Like standard myotomy, POEM is usually considered only if other treatments don't work. Lifestyle and home remedies To help you cope with occasional esophageal spasms, try to: Avoid your triggers.
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2025-05-14
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c65140db-9135-4dc3-8e19-7d0972f480ab
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-spasms/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372255
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Esophageal spasms
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diagnosis-treatment
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This newer technique involves placing an endoscope through the mouth and down the throat. This allows a surgeon to make a cut in the inside lining of the esophagus. Then, as in standard myotomy, the surgeon cuts the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus. Like standard myotomy, POEM is usually considered only if other treatments don't work. Lifestyle and home remedies To help you cope with occasional esophageal spasms, try to: Avoid your triggers. Make a list of foods and beverages that cause your esophageal spasms. Choose food that is warm or cool. Let foods and drinks that are very hot or very cold sit for a bit before eating or drinking them. Suck a peppermint lozenge. Peppermint oil is a smooth muscle relaxant and might help ease esophageal spasms. Place the peppermint lozenge under your tongue. Preparing for your appointment You may be referred to a healthcare professional who specializes in the digestive system, also called a gastroenterologist. What you can do Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions, such as fasting before your appointment. Write down your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason you scheduled the appointment. Write down any triggers to your symptoms, such as specific foods. Make a list of all your medicines, vitamins and supplements. Write down your key medical information, including other conditions. Write down key personal information, including any recent changes or stressors in your life. Write down questions to ask during your appointment. Ask a relative or friend to accompany you, to help you remember what was discussed during the appointment. Questions to ask your doctor What's the most likely cause of my symptoms? What tests do I need? Is there any special preparation for them? Is my condition likely temporary or long-lasting? What treatments are available? What types of foods are likely to make my symptoms worse? I have other health problems.
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063413b0-611c-4592-a98e-6e9485cbdd9e
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-spasms/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372255
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Esophageal spasms
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diagnosis-treatment
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Write down questions to ask during your appointment. Ask a relative or friend to accompany you, to help you remember what was discussed during the appointment. Questions to ask your doctor What's the most likely cause of my symptoms? What tests do I need? Is there any special preparation for them? Is my condition likely temporary or long-lasting? What treatments are available? What types of foods are likely to make my symptoms worse? I have other health problems. How can I best manage these conditions together? In addition to the questions that you've prepared, don't hesitate to ask other questions. What to expect from your doctor You're likely to be asked a few questions. Being ready to answer them may leave time to go over points you want to spend more time on. You may be asked: When did you begin experiencing symptoms? How severe are they? Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional? What, if anything, seems to improve or worsen your symptoms? Does exertion bring on your chest pain? Is your chest pain associated with arm or jaw pain, shortness of breath, or nausea? Are your symptoms related to eating? Are they triggered by any particular food or type of food? Do you experience symptoms of heartburn after eating, such as a burning sensation in your chest or an acid taste in your mouth? Do you ever wake up during the night with heartburn, chest pain or an acid taste in your mouth? Do you have difficulty swallowing food, or have you had to change your diet to avoid difficulty swallowing? Nov. 09, 2024
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2025-05-14
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5b562ce6-878f-4ded-b78c-bee4c00d0b91
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-varices/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351544
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Esophageal varices
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diagnosis-treatment
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Diagnosis Upper endoscopy Upper endoscopy Upper endoscopy During an upper endoscopy, a healthcare professional inserts a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera down the throat and into the esophagus. The tiny camera provides a view of the esophagus, stomach and the beginning of the small intestine, called the duodenum. If someone is diagnosed with cirrhosis, a healthcare professional will then typically screen for esophageal varices. How often screening tests are done depends on someone's condition. The main tests used to diagnose esophageal varices are: Upper endoscopy. An upper endoscopy uses a tiny camera on the end of a flexible tube to visually examine the upper digestive system. This procedure is the preferred method of screening for esophageal varices. The tiny camera lets a medical professional examine the esophagus, stomach and the beginning of the small intestine, called the duodenum. The professional doing the endoscopy looks for dilated veins. If found, the enlarged veins are measured and checked for red streaks and red spots, which usually indicate a significant risk of bleeding. Treatment can be performed during the exam. Imaging tests. Both abdominal CT scans and Doppler ultrasounds of the splenic and portal veins can suggest the presence of esophageal varices. An ultrasound test called transient elastography may be used to measure scarring in the liver. This can help determine if someone has portal hypertension, which may lead to esophageal varices. Treatment The primary aim in treating esophageal varices is to prevent bleeding. Bleeding esophageal varices are life-threatening. If bleeding happens, treatments are available to try to stop the bleeding. Treatment to prevent bleeding Treatments to lower blood pressure in the portal vein may reduce the risk of bleeding esophageal varices. Treatments may include: Medicines to reduce pressure in the portal vein.
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2025-05-14
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953dc011-d6fe-4c4e-bddc-544eae33a57a
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-varices/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351544
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Esophageal varices
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diagnosis-treatment
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Treatment The primary aim in treating esophageal varices is to prevent bleeding. Bleeding esophageal varices are life-threatening. If bleeding happens, treatments are available to try to stop the bleeding. Treatment to prevent bleeding Treatments to lower blood pressure in the portal vein may reduce the risk of bleeding esophageal varices. Treatments may include: Medicines to reduce pressure in the portal vein. A type of blood pressure drug called a beta blocker may help reduce blood pressure in the portal vein. This can decrease the likelihood of bleeding. Beta blocker medicines include propranolol (Inderal, Innopran XL) and nadolol. Using elastic bands to tie off bleeding veins. If the esophageal varices appear to have a high risk of bleeding, or if the varices have bled before, a healthcare professional might recommend a procedure called endoscopic band ligation. Using an endoscope, the care professional uses suction to pull the varices into a chamber at the end of the scope and wraps them with an elastic band. This essentially "strangles" the veins so they can't bleed. Endoscopic band ligation carries a small risk of complications, such as bleeding and scarring of the esophagus. Treatment if you're bleeding Bleeding esophageal varices are life-threatening, and immediate treatment is essential. Treatments used to stop bleeding and reverse the effects of blood loss include: Using elastic bands to tie off bleeding veins. A healthcare professional may wrap elastic bands around the esophageal varices during an endoscopy. Medicines to slow blood flow into the portal vein. Medicines such as octreotide (Sandostatin) and vasopressin (Vasostrict) slow the flow of blood to the portal vein. Medicine is usually continued for up to five days after a bleeding episode. Diverting blood flow away from the portal vein.
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2025-05-14
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790e40f7-5817-4ed4-857c-b7507d2c0545
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-varices/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351544
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Esophageal varices
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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A healthcare professional may wrap elastic bands around the esophageal varices during an endoscopy. Medicines to slow blood flow into the portal vein. Medicines such as octreotide (Sandostatin) and vasopressin (Vasostrict) slow the flow of blood to the portal vein. Medicine is usually continued for up to five days after a bleeding episode. Diverting blood flow away from the portal vein. If medicine and endoscopy treatments don't stop the bleeding, a care professional might recommend a procedure called transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS). The shunt is an opening that is created between the portal vein and the hepatic vein, which carries blood from the liver to the heart. The shunt reduces pressure in the portal vein and often stops bleeding from esophageal varices. But TIPS can cause serious complications, including liver failure and mental confusion. These symptoms can develop when toxins that the liver typically would filter are passed through the shunt directly into the bloodstream. TIPS is mainly used when all other treatments have failed or as a temporary measure in people awaiting a liver transplant. Placing pressure on varices to stop bleeding. If medicine and endoscopy treatments don't work, a care professional may try to stop bleeding by applying pressure to the esophageal varices. One way to temporarily stop bleeding is by inflating a balloon to put pressure on the varices for up to 24 hours, a procedure called balloon tamponade. Balloon tamponade is a temporary measure before other treatments can be performed, such as TIPS. This procedure carries a high risk of bleeding recurrence after the balloon is deflated. Balloon tamponade also may cause serious complications, including a rupture in the esophagus, which can lead to death. Restoring blood volume.
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2025-05-14
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5a6ee851-27e4-4084-bce6-eb4337ca44eb
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-varices/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351544
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Esophageal varices
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diagnosis-treatment
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Balloon tamponade is a temporary measure before other treatments can be performed, such as TIPS. This procedure carries a high risk of bleeding recurrence after the balloon is deflated. Balloon tamponade also may cause serious complications, including a rupture in the esophagus, which can lead to death. Restoring blood volume. A transfusion may be needed to replace lost blood, and a clotting factor may be given to stop bleeding. Preventing infection. There is an increased risk of infection with bleeding, so an antibiotic may be prescribed to prevent infection. Replacing the diseased liver with a healthy one. Liver transplant is an option for people with severe liver disease or those who experience recurrent bleeding of esophageal varices. Although liver transplantation is often successful, the number of people awaiting transplants far outnumbers the available organs. Rebleeding There is a high risk that bleeding will recur in people who've had bleeding from esophageal varices. Beta blockers and endoscopic band ligation are the recommended treatments to help prevent rebleeding. After initial banding treatment, a healthcare professional will repeat an upper endoscopy at regular intervals. If necessary, more banding may be done until the esophageal varices are gone or are small enough to reduce the risk of further bleeding. Potential future treatment Researchers are exploring an experimental emergency therapy to stop bleeding from esophageal varices that involves spraying an adhesive powder. The hemostatic powder is given through a catheter during an endoscopy. When sprayed on the esophagus, hemostatic powder sticks to the varices and may stop bleeding. Another possible way to stop bleeding when all other measures fail is to use self-expanding metal stents (SEMS). SEMS can be placed during an endoscopy and stop bleeding by placing pressure on the bleeding esophageal varices. However, SEMS could damage tissue and can migrate after being placed.
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2025-05-14
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a790008d-28b5-4d70-8806-0004cad003c7
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-varices/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351544
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Esophageal varices
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diagnosis-treatment
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When sprayed on the esophagus, hemostatic powder sticks to the varices and may stop bleeding. Another possible way to stop bleeding when all other measures fail is to use self-expanding metal stents (SEMS). SEMS can be placed during an endoscopy and stop bleeding by placing pressure on the bleeding esophageal varices. However, SEMS could damage tissue and can migrate after being placed. The stent should be removed within seven days and bleeding could recur. This option is experimental and isn't yet widely available. Preparing for your appointment You might start by seeing someone on your primary healthcare team. Or you may be referred immediately to a healthcare professional who specializes in digestive disorders, called a gastroenterologist. If you're having symptoms of internal bleeding, call 911 or your local emergency number to be taken to the hospital for urgent care. Here's some information to help you get ready for an appointment. What you can do When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as fasting before a specific test. Make a list of: Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to the reason for your appointment. Key personal information, including major stresses, recent life changes or recent travels, family and personal medical history, and your alcohol use. All medicines, vitamins or other supplements you take, including doses. Questions to ask during your appointment. Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you remember information you're given. For esophageal varices, questions to ask include: What's likely causing my symptoms? What other possible causes are there? What tests do I need? What's the best course of action? What are the side effects of the treatments? Are my symptoms likely to recur, and what can I do to prevent that? I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together? Are there restrictions that I need to follow? Should I see a specialist?
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2025-05-14
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a117d17d-c7eb-4d11-999f-4491e86cdea0
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/esophageal-varices/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351544
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Esophageal varices
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diagnosis-treatment
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For esophageal varices, questions to ask include: What's likely causing my symptoms? What other possible causes are there? What tests do I need? What's the best course of action? What are the side effects of the treatments? Are my symptoms likely to recur, and what can I do to prevent that? I have other health conditions. How can I best manage them together? Are there restrictions that I need to follow? Should I see a specialist? Are there brochures or other printed materials I can have? What websites do you recommend? Don't hesitate to ask other questions. What to expect from your doctor You'll likely be asked a few questions, such as: When did your symptoms begin? Have your symptoms stayed the same or gotten worse? How severe are your symptoms? Have you had signs of bleeding, such as blood in your stools or vomit? Have you had hepatitis or yellowing of your eyes or skin (jaundice)? Have you traveled recently? Where? If you drink alcohol, when did you start and how much do you drink? What you can do in the meantime If you develop bloody vomit or stools while you're waiting for your appointment, call 911 or your local emergency number or go to an emergency room immediately.
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2025-05-14
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8054ae81-a027-4941-bb8c-43a38183a5e7
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epithelioid-sarcoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20577574
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Epithelioid sarcoma
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Overview Epithelioid sarcoma is a rare type of cancer that starts as a growth of cells in the soft tissue. It can happen anywhere on the body. It often starts under the skin on the finger, hand, forearm, knee or lower leg. Epithelioid sarcoma can happen at any age. It most often affects teenagers and young to middle-aged adults. Epithelioid sarcoma tends to grow slowly. It can come back after treatment. Epithelioid sarcoma is a type of cancer called a soft tissue sarcoma. These cancers happen in the body's connective tissues. There are many types of soft tissue sarcoma. Soft tissue sarcomas, including epithelioid sarcoma, are not common. It is best to seek care at a cancer center that has experience treating people with sarcoma. Symptoms Epithelioid sarcoma symptoms include a small, firm growth under the skin called a nodule. The nodule usually isn't painful or tender. Sometimes there is more than one nodule. Sometimes the nodule forms a sore on the skin that won't heal. The nodules caused by epithelioid sarcoma most often grow on the fingers, hands or forearms. They also may grow on the knee or lower leg. Causes The cause of epithelioid sarcoma isn't known. This cancer causes a growth of cells in the soft tissue. Epithelioid sarcoma starts when soft tissue cells get changes in their DNA. A cell's DNA holds the instructions that tell the cell what to do. In healthy cells, the DNA gives instructions to grow and multiply at a set rate. The instructions tell the cells to die at a set time. In cancer cells, the DNA changes give different instructions. The changes tell the cancer cells to grow and multiply quickly. Cancer cells can keep living when healthy cells would die. This causes too many cells.
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2025-05-14
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3d39798e-e4e1-4665-b0cd-d48600652bf2
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epithelioid-sarcoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20577574
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Epithelioid sarcoma
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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A cell's DNA holds the instructions that tell the cell what to do. In healthy cells, the DNA gives instructions to grow and multiply at a set rate. The instructions tell the cells to die at a set time. In cancer cells, the DNA changes give different instructions. The changes tell the cancer cells to grow and multiply quickly. Cancer cells can keep living when healthy cells would die. This causes too many cells. The cancer cells might form a growth that can be felt through the skin. The cells can break away and spread to lymph nodes and to other parts of the body. When cancer spreads, it's called metastatic cancer. Risk factors The risk of epithelioid sarcoma is higher in younger people. This cancer can happen at any age. But it happens most often in adolescents and young to middle-aged adults. It is less common in children and older adults. There is no way to prevent epithelioid sarcoma. Jan. 17, 2025
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2025-05-14
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4e18ba07-c32c-4b42-9948-0eb879cdf2a2
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontal-lobe-seizures/symptoms-causes/syc-20353958
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Frontal lobe seizures
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Overview Brain lobes Brain lobes Brain lobes Each side of the brain has four lobes. The frontal lobe is important for thinking and for managing voluntary movement or activity. The parietal lobe is involved in body temperature, taste, touch and movement. The occipital lobe is linked to vision. The temporal lobe processes memories, putting them with taste, sound, sight and touch. Frontal lobe seizures are a common form of epilepsy. Epilepsy is a brain disorder in which clusters of brain cells send a burst of electrical signals. This causes movements that can't be controlled, known as seizures. Frontal lobe seizures begin in the front of the brain, the area known as the frontal lobe. The frontal lobe is large and has important functions. For this reason, frontal lobe seizures can produce symptoms that are unusual and may appear to be related to a mental illness. The seizures also can be mistaken for a sleep disorder because they often occur during sleep. Frontal lobe seizures also are known as frontal lobe epilepsy. Changes in brain tissue, infection, injury, stroke, tumors or other conditions can cause frontal lobe seizures. Medicines can help control the seizures. Surgery or electrical stimulation might be options if medicines don't reduce or stop the seizures. Symptoms Frontal lobe seizures often last less than 30 seconds. Sometimes recovery is immediate. Symptoms of frontal lobe seizures might include: Head and eye movement to one side. Not responding to others or having trouble speaking. Explosive screams, including profanities or laughter. Body posturing. A common posture is extending one arm while the other flexes, as if the person is posing like a fencer. Repetitive movements. These may include rocking, bicycle pedaling or pelvic thrusting. When to see a doctor See a health care professional if you're having symptoms of a seizure.
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2025-05-14
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38c6425c-ef58-4deb-b56a-eb9167b9d3d4
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontal-lobe-seizures/symptoms-causes/syc-20353958
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Frontal lobe seizures
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Not responding to others or having trouble speaking. Explosive screams, including profanities or laughter. Body posturing. A common posture is extending one arm while the other flexes, as if the person is posing like a fencer. Repetitive movements. These may include rocking, bicycle pedaling or pelvic thrusting. When to see a doctor See a health care professional if you're having symptoms of a seizure. Call 911 or emergency medical help if you see someone having a seizure that lasts longer than five minutes. Causes Frontal lobe seizures can be caused by tumors, stroke, infection or traumatic injuries in the brain's frontal lobes. Frontal lobe seizures also are associated with a rare inherited disorder called autosomal dominant nocturnal frontal lobe epilepsy. This form of epilepsy causes brief seizures during sleep. If one of your parents has this form of epilepsy, you have a 50% chance of inheriting the disorder. For about half of people who have frontal lobe epilepsy, the cause is not known. Risk factors Risk factors of frontal lobe seizures include: Family history of seizures or brain disorders. Head trauma. Brain infection. Brain tumors. Blood vessels or brain tissues that form in an irregular way. Stroke. Complications Frontal lobe seizures can cause complications that may include: Seizures that last dangerously long. Frontal lobe seizures tend to occur in clusters. For this reason, they might provoke a condition in which seizure activity lasts much longer than usual, known as status epilepticus. If these seizures continue, they can cause permanent brain damage or death. Seizures that last longer than five minutes are medical emergencies. Call 911 or get medical help right away if you witness someone having a seizure for longer than five minutes. Injury. The motions that occur during frontal lobe seizures sometimes result in injury to the person having the seizure.
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2025-05-14
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7171c4b1-e7e3-4b02-b044-31a63787814b
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontal-lobe-seizures/symptoms-causes/syc-20353958
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Frontal lobe seizures
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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For this reason, they might provoke a condition in which seizure activity lasts much longer than usual, known as status epilepticus. If these seizures continue, they can cause permanent brain damage or death. Seizures that last longer than five minutes are medical emergencies. Call 911 or get medical help right away if you witness someone having a seizure for longer than five minutes. Injury. The motions that occur during frontal lobe seizures sometimes result in injury to the person having the seizure. Seizures also can result in accidents and drowning if they occur in certain situations, such as while driving or swimming. Sudden unexplained death in epilepsy (SUDEP). People who have seizures have a greater risk than the average person of dying suddenly. The reasons for this are not known. Possible factors include heart or breathing problems, perhaps related to genetic changes. Controlling seizures as well as possible with medicines appears to be the best way to prevent SUDEP . Depression and anxiety. Both are common in people with epilepsy. Children also have a higher risk of developing attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Sept. 19, 2023
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2025-05-14
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20350093
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Epilepsy
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Mayo Clinic Explains Epilepsy Lily Wong-Kisiel, M.D., Pediatric Neurologist, Mayo Clinic: Hi, I'm Dr. Lily Wong-Kisiel, a pediatric neurologist at Mayo Clinic. In this video, we'll cover the basics of epilepsy. What is it? Who gets it? The symptoms diagnosis and treatment. Whether you're looking for answers for yourself or someone you love, we're here to give you the best information available. First of all, epilepsy is common. Around 3 million people in the U.S. have epilepsy, making it the fourth most common neurological disease after migraine, stroke and Alzheimer's. Epilepsy happens as a result of abnormal electrical brain activity, also known as a seizure, kind of like an electrical storm inside your head. And because your brain controls so much, a lot of different things can go wrong. You may have periods of unusual behaviors, feelings and sometimes loss of awareness. There are many types of seizures, including two main categories: focal, meaning they start in a particular part of your brain, or generalized, meaning the seizures initially involve all areas of the brain. There are some myths about epilepsy we can dismiss. If you are with someone experiencing a seizure, don't put anything in their mouth. They can't actually swallow their tongue. Don't restrain them. And don't worry, epilepsy isn't contagious, so you can't catch it. Although children or older adults are more susceptible, anyone can develop epilepsy. When epilepsy is diagnosed in older adults, it's sometimes from another neurological issue, like a stroke or a brain tumor. Other causes can be related to genetic abnormalities, prior brain infection, prenatal injuries or developmental disorders. But in about half of people with epilepsy, there's no apparent cause. What are the symptoms? Because they happen in the brain, seizures can affect any process your brain handles. Therefore, symptoms can vary.
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2025-05-14
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f30c414d-4082-426f-b6f8-2d8fd2b938af
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20350093
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Epilepsy
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symptoms-causes
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Although children or older adults are more susceptible, anyone can develop epilepsy. When epilepsy is diagnosed in older adults, it's sometimes from another neurological issue, like a stroke or a brain tumor. Other causes can be related to genetic abnormalities, prior brain infection, prenatal injuries or developmental disorders. But in about half of people with epilepsy, there's no apparent cause. What are the symptoms? Because they happen in the brain, seizures can affect any process your brain handles. Therefore, symptoms can vary. Many individuals with epilepsy tend to have the same type of seizure each time. However, some will have more than one type. So, how do you recognize a seizure? Keep an eye out for temporary confusion, a staring spell, uncontrollable jerking, loss of consciousness, fear, anxiety or deja vu. Let's talk about the two types of seizures again: focal and generalized. Focal seizures happen one of two ways: without loss of awareness or with impaired awareness. In those where you remain conscious, you may experience altered emotions or change in sensation like smell, sound or taste. You may also have dizziness, tingling or see flashing lights. You could also experience involuntary jerking of body parts like your arm or your leg. When you lose or have altered awareness, you can pass out or stare into space and not really respond normally. Hand rubbing, chewing, swallowing or walking in circles can happen in this kind of seizure. Because these symptoms overlap with migraine or other neurological disorders, heart problems or psychiatric conditions, tests are needed for a diagnosis. Generalized onset seizures, the ones that happen across all areas of the brain, show up in a variety of ways. Absence seizures are marked by staring absently into space. Blinking and lip smacking can also happen. Tonic seizures involve a stiffening of the back, arm and legs. The opposite of tonic seizures are atonic seizures, which result in a loss of muscle control.
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2025-05-14
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8f49cd24-d362-424b-b880-be836a57d162
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20350093
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Epilepsy
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Generalized onset seizures, the ones that happen across all areas of the brain, show up in a variety of ways. Absence seizures are marked by staring absently into space. Blinking and lip smacking can also happen. Tonic seizures involve a stiffening of the back, arm and legs. The opposite of tonic seizures are atonic seizures, which result in a loss of muscle control. Instead of going stiff, everything goes slack. Clonic seizures usually affect the neck, face and arms with repeated jerking movements. Similar to clonic seizure, myoclonic seizures involve sudden brief jerks or twitches of the arms. Lastly, there are tonic-clonic seizures. Like the name suggests, these involve parts of both tonic and clonic signs. Body stiffening and shaking, loss of bladder control or biting your tongue can also happen. Knowing the kind of seizure you have is key to treatment. How is it diagnosed? Even after having a single seizure, sometimes the diagnosis of epilepsy can't be made. Regardless, if you do have something that seems like a first-time seizure, see a physician. Your doctor may assess your motor abilities, mental function and other areas to diagnose your condition and determine if you have epilepsy. They may also order additional diagnostic tests. They could include neurological exam, blood tests, EEG , CT scan, brain imaging and sometimes neuropsychological tests. Because your brain is such a complicated piece of machinery, neurologists, epileptologists, neurosurgeons, neuroradiologists, mental health specialists, and other professionals all work together to provide exactly the care you need. How is it treated? The best care starts with an accurate diagnosis. The medications we have for epilepsy are incredibly effective. More than half of the cases are seizure-free after their first medication. But when medication does not work at stopping seizures completely, there are other emerging ways of treating epilepsy, including surgery and brain stimulation.
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2025-05-14
| 391 |
e2312ac3-e1d3-4471-8650-20d4003bd9e1
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20350093
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Epilepsy
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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How is it treated? The best care starts with an accurate diagnosis. The medications we have for epilepsy are incredibly effective. More than half of the cases are seizure-free after their first medication. But when medication does not work at stopping seizures completely, there are other emerging ways of treating epilepsy, including surgery and brain stimulation. And a comprehensive level 4 epilepsy center can help find you the best way to manage your care. For patients undergoing treatment, it's important to keep a detailed seizure journal. Each time you have a seizure, write down the time, the type and how long it lasted, making note of anything out of the ordinary, like missed medication, sleep deprivation, increased stress, menstruation, or anything else that could trigger it. What now? Though we don't always know why people suffer from epilepsy, ongoing research continues to build our knowledge and improve treatment options. And better treatment means happier patients. If you'd like to learn even more about epilepsy, watch our other related videos or visit mayoclinic.org. We wish you well.
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2025-05-14
| 212 |
694565e3-8a9a-4a70-a616-248319d12a86
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epiglottitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372227
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Epiglottitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Overview Throat anatomy Throat anatomy Throat anatomy The throat includes the esophagus, trachea, larynx, tonsils and epiglottis. Epiglottitis happens when the epiglottis — a small cartilage "lid" that covers the windpipe — swells. The swelling blocks the flow of air into the lungs. Epiglottitis can be deadly. Many factors can cause the epiglottis to swell. These factors include infections, burns from hot liquids and injuries to the throat. Epiglottitis can happen at any age. Once, mainly children got it. The most common cause of epiglottitis in children was infection with Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria. The bacterium also causes pneumonia, meningitis and blood infections. Routine Hib vaccination for infants has made epiglottitis rare in children. It's now more common in adults. The condition needs quick care to prevent deadly complications. Symptoms Symptoms in children Children can develop symptoms of epiglottitis within hours. Symptoms can include: Fever. Sore throat. Unusual, high-pitched sound when breathing in, known as stridor. Difficult and painful swallowing. Drooling. Acting anxious and irritable. Sitting up or leaning forward to ease breathing. Symptoms in adults Adults might get symptoms over days rather than hours. Symptoms might include: Sore throat. Fever. A muffled or hoarse voice. Difficulty breathing. Difficulty swallowing. When to see a doctor Epiglottitis is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know suddenly has trouble breathing and swallowing, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. Try to keep the person quiet and upright, because this position can make it easier to breathe. Causes An infection or injury causes epiglottitis.
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2025-05-14
| 384 |
69ca6261-a0e6-45c0-97b3-c4d17bdd5929
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epiglottitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372227
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Epiglottitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Symptoms might include: Sore throat. Fever. A muffled or hoarse voice. Difficulty breathing. Difficulty swallowing. When to see a doctor Epiglottitis is a medical emergency. If you or someone you know suddenly has trouble breathing and swallowing, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest hospital emergency department. Try to keep the person quiet and upright, because this position can make it easier to breathe. Causes An infection or injury causes epiglottitis. Infection In the past, a common cause of swelling and inflammation of the epiglottis and surrounding tissues was infection with Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) bacteria. Hib is responsible for other conditions, the most common being meningitis. Hib is now much less common in developed countries where children get Hib vaccines. Hib spreads when an infected person coughs or sneezes droplets into the air. It's possible to have Hib in the nose and throat without becoming sick. But spreading it to others is still possible. In adults, other bacteria and viruses also can cause the epiglottis to swell. These include: Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus). This bacterium can cause meningitis, pneumonia, ear infection and blood infection. Streptococcus A, B and C. This group of bacteria can cause diseases from strep throat to blood infection. Staphylococcus aureus. This bacterium causes skin infections and other diseases including pneumonia and toxic shock syndrome. Injury Rarely, physical injury, such as a blow to the throat, can cause epiglottitis. So can burns from drinking very hot liquids and breathing in smoke from a fire. Symptoms like those of epiglottitis can come from: Swallowing a chemical that burns the throat. Swallowing an object. Smoking drugs, such as crack cocaine. Smoking electronic cigarettes.
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2025-05-14
| 389 |
8a7aa9a6-8e64-43a6-a00b-37f1a8e94a6a
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epiglottitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372227
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Epiglottitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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This bacterium causes skin infections and other diseases including pneumonia and toxic shock syndrome. Injury Rarely, physical injury, such as a blow to the throat, can cause epiglottitis. So can burns from drinking very hot liquids and breathing in smoke from a fire. Symptoms like those of epiglottitis can come from: Swallowing a chemical that burns the throat. Swallowing an object. Smoking drugs, such as crack cocaine. Smoking electronic cigarettes. Risk factors Some factors increase the risk of getting epiglottitis, including: Having a weakened immune system. An immune system weakened by illness or medicines can be more likely to get bacterial infections that may cause epiglottitis. Not being fully vaccinated. Skipping vaccinations or not getting them on time can leave a child open to Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) and increase the risk of epiglottitis. Complications Epiglottitis can cause many complications, including: Breathing failure. The epiglottis is a small, movable "lid" just above the larynx that prevents food and drink from entering the windpipe. Swelling of the epiglottis can completely block the airway. This can lead to breathing or respiratory failure. In this life-threatening condition, the level of oxygen in the blood drops very low. Spreading infection. Sometimes the bacteria that cause epiglottitis cause infections in other parts of the body. Infections can include pneumonia, meningitis or a bloodstream infection. Prevention Hib vaccine Getting the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine prevents epiglottitis caused by Hib . In the United States, children usually receive the vaccine in three or four doses: At 2 months. At 4 months. At 6 months if the child is getting the four-dose vaccine. At 12 to 15 months.
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2025-05-14
| 390 |
59d5dfd0-a58a-4bf7-8adb-119b447b9c45
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epiglottitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372227
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Epiglottitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Infections can include pneumonia, meningitis or a bloodstream infection. Prevention Hib vaccine Getting the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine prevents epiglottitis caused by Hib . In the United States, children usually receive the vaccine in three or four doses: At 2 months. At 4 months. At 6 months if the child is getting the four-dose vaccine. At 12 to 15 months. Because children older than 5 and adults are less likely to develop Hib infection, they're not usually given the vaccine. But the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends the vaccine for older children and adults whose immune systems are weak because of: Sickle cell disease. HIV / AIDS . Spleen removal. Chemotherapy. Medicine to prevent rejection of organ or bone marrow transplants. Vaccine side effects Allergic reaction. An allergic reaction requires swift medical attention. Though rare, an allergic reaction may cause difficulty breathing, wheezing, hives, weakness, a rapid heartbeat or dizziness within minutes or hours after the shot. Possible mild side effects. These include redness, warmth, swelling or pain at the injection site, and a fever. Commonsense precautions The Hib vaccine isn't foolproof. Some vaccinated children have had epiglottitis — and other germs can cause epiglottitis too. That's where using common sense comes in: Don't share personal items. Wash hands frequently. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren't available. Nov. 11, 2022
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2025-05-14
| 316 |
c93bef29-9a84-4c49-848f-481614ac317e
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epididymitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20363853
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Epididymitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Overview Epididymitis (ep-ih-did-uh-MY-tis) is an inflammation of the coiled tube, called the epididymis, at the back of the testicle. The epididymis stores and carries sperm. Males of any age can get epididymitis. Epididymitis is most often caused by a bacterial infection, including sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Sometimes, a testicle also becomes inflamed — a condition called epididymo-orchitis. Epididymitis is usually treated with antibiotics and measures to relieve discomfort. Symptoms Epididymitis Epididymitis Epididymitis Epididymitis is an inflammation of the coiled tube, called the epididymis, at the back of the testicle. Symptoms of epididymitis might include: A swollen, discolored or warm scrotum Testicle pain and tenderness, usually on one side, that often comes on slowly Pain when you pass urine An urgent or frequent need to urinate Discharge from the penis Pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvic area Blood in the semen Less commonly, fever Chronic epididymitis Epididymitis that lasts longer than six weeks or that happens over and over again is considered chronic. Symptoms of chronic epididymitis might come on slowly. Sometimes the cause of chronic epididymitis isn't able to be found. When to see a doctor Don't ignore scrotal pain or swelling. This can be caused by a number of conditions. Some of them need treatment right away to avoid permanent damage. If you have severe pain in the scrotum, seek emergency treatment. If you have discharge from your penis or pain when you pass urine, see a health care provider. Causes Male reproductive system Male reproductive system Male reproductive system The male reproductive system makes, stores and moves sperm.
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2025-05-14
| 393 |
df8b2021-f709-4f2f-b335-fa01aa0d91c6
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epididymitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20363853
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Epididymitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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When to see a doctor Don't ignore scrotal pain or swelling. This can be caused by a number of conditions. Some of them need treatment right away to avoid permanent damage. If you have severe pain in the scrotum, seek emergency treatment. If you have discharge from your penis or pain when you pass urine, see a health care provider. Causes Male reproductive system Male reproductive system Male reproductive system The male reproductive system makes, stores and moves sperm. Testicles produce sperm. Fluid from the seminal vesicles and prostate gland mixes with sperm to make semen. The penis ejaculates semen during sexual activity. Causes of epididymitis include: STIs . Gonorrhea and chlamydia are the most common causes of epididymitis in young, sexually active males. Other infections. Bacteria from a urinary tract or prostate infection might spread from the infected site to the epididymis. Also, viral infections, such as the mumps virus, can result in epididymitis. Urine in the epididymis. This condition occurs when urine flows backward into the epididymis, causing chemical irritation. It may be the result of heavy lifting or straining. Trauma. A groin injury can cause epididymitis. Tuberculosis. Rarely, epididymitis can be caused by tuberculosis infection.
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2025-05-14
| 273 |
dd58e912-040a-4045-a506-f6c8a3994a7a
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epididymitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20363853
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Epididymitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Also, viral infections, such as the mumps virus, can result in epididymitis. Urine in the epididymis. This condition occurs when urine flows backward into the epididymis, causing chemical irritation. It may be the result of heavy lifting or straining. Trauma. A groin injury can cause epididymitis. Tuberculosis. Rarely, epididymitis can be caused by tuberculosis infection. Risk factors Certain sexual behaviors that can lead to STIs put you at risk of sexually transmitted epididymitis, including having: Sex with a partner who has an STI Sex without a condom Anal sex A history of STIs Risk factors for epididymitis that's not sexually transmitted include: Having a prostate or urinary tract infection Having a medical procedure done that affects the urinary tract, such as insertion of a urinary catheter or scope into the penis An uncircumcised penis A difference in the typical anatomy of the urinary tract Prostate enlargement, which increases the risk of bladder infections and epididymitis Other health conditions that cause a weakened immune system, such as HIV Complications Complications of epididymitis include: Pus-filled infection, called an abscess, in the scrotum Collection of fluid around the testicle, called a hydrocele Epididymo-orchitis, if the condition spreads from the epididymis to a testicle Rarely, reduced fertility Prevention To help protect against STIs that can cause epididymitis, practice safer sex. If you have recurrent urinary tract infections or other risk factors for epididymitis, your health care provider might talk with you about other ways you can help prevent the condition.
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2025-05-14
| 345 |
095becb5-e030-487b-803e-d25207d90d1b
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/symptoms-causes/syc-20361062
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Overview Junctional epidermolysis bullosa Junctional epidermolysis bullosa Junctional epidermolysis bullosa Junctional epidermolysis bullosa can show up at birth. Large, open sores are common and can lead to infections and loss of body fluids. As a result, severe forms of the disease may be fatal. Epidermolysis bullosa (ep-ih-dur-MOL-uh-sis buhl-LOE-sah) is a rare condition that causes fragile, blistering skin. The blisters may appear in response to minor injury, even from heat, rubbing or scratching. In severe cases, the blisters may occur inside the body, such as the lining of the mouth or stomach. Epidermolysis bullosa is inherited, and it usually shows up in infants or young children. Some people don't develop symptoms until they're teens or young adults. Epidermolysis bullosa has no cure, but mild forms may improve with age. Treatment focuses on caring for blisters and preventing new ones. Symptoms Epidermolysis bullosa symptoms include: Fragile skin that blisters easily, especially on the palms and feet Nails that are thick or unformed Blisters inside the mouth and throat Scalp blistering and hair loss (scarring alopecia) Skin that looks thin Tiny pimple-like bumps (milia) Dental problems, such as tooth decay Difficulty swallowing Itchy, painful skin Usually epidermolysis bullosa blisters are noticed during infancy. But it's not uncommon for them to appear when a toddler first begins to walk or when an older child begins new activities that cause more friction on the soles of the feet. When to see a doctor Contact your health care provider if you or your child develops blisters for an unknown reason. For infants, severe blistering can be life-threatening.
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2025-05-14
| 387 |
61f895f6-e858-4b52-bfb5-7fd474a74662
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/symptoms-causes/syc-20361062
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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But it's not uncommon for them to appear when a toddler first begins to walk or when an older child begins new activities that cause more friction on the soles of the feet. When to see a doctor Contact your health care provider if you or your child develops blisters for an unknown reason. For infants, severe blistering can be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical care if you or your child: Has problems swallowing Has problems breathing Shows signs of infection, such as warm, painful or swollen skin, pus, or an odor from a sore, and fever or chills Causes Basement membrane zone Basement membrane zone Basement membrane zone Depending on the type of epidermolysis bullosa, blistering may occur in the top layer of skin (epidermis), the bottom layer (dermis) or the layer that separates the two (basement membrane zone). Autosomal dominant inheritance pattern Autosomal dominant inheritance pattern Autosomal dominant inheritance pattern In an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern, the changed gene is a dominant gene. It's located on one of the nonsex chromosomes, called autosomes. Only one changed gene is needed for someone to be affected by this type of condition. A person with an autosomal dominant condition — in this example, the father — has a 50% chance of having an affected child with one changed gene and a 50% chance of having an unaffected child. Autosomal recessive inheritance pattern Autosomal recessive inheritance pattern Autosomal recessive inheritance pattern To have an autosomal recessive disorder, you inherit two changed genes, sometimes called mutations. You get one from each parent. Their health is rarely affected because they have only one changed gene. Two carriers have a 25% chance of having an unaffected child with two unaffected genes. They have a 50% chance of having an unaffected child who also is a carrier. They have a 25% chance of having an affected child with two changed genes.
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2025-05-14
| 388 |
f155f5f5-2ebd-413d-b8be-e3e96cff44ef
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/symptoms-causes/syc-20361062
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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You get one from each parent. Their health is rarely affected because they have only one changed gene. Two carriers have a 25% chance of having an unaffected child with two unaffected genes. They have a 50% chance of having an unaffected child who also is a carrier. They have a 25% chance of having an affected child with two changed genes. Epidermolysis bullosa simplex Epidermolysis bullosa simplex Epidermolysis bullosa simplex Epidermolysis bullosa simplex usually becomes apparent at birth or during early infancy. It's the most common and least severe type. Blistering may be mild when compared with other types. Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa generally becomes apparent at birth or during early childhood. The more-severe forms can lead to rough, thickened skin, scarring, and misshapen hands and feet. Epidermolysis bullosa is caused by an inherited gene. You may inherit the disease gene from one parent who has the disease (autosomal dominant inheritance) or from both parents (autosomal recessive inheritance). The skin is made up of an outer layer (epidermis) and an underlying layer (dermis). The area where the layers meet is called the basement membrane. The types of epidermolysis bullosa are mainly defined by which layers separate and form blisters. The skin injury might be brought on by a minor injury, bump or nothing at all. The main types of epidermolysis bullosa are: Epidermolysis bullosa simplex. This is the most common type. It's brought on by heat and friction and develops in the outer layer of skin. It mainly affects the palms and feet. The blisters heal without scarring.
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2025-05-14
| 393 |
c1e152db-fc73-468e-b960-62c55acf5c73
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/symptoms-causes/syc-20361062
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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The skin injury might be brought on by a minor injury, bump or nothing at all. The main types of epidermolysis bullosa are: Epidermolysis bullosa simplex. This is the most common type. It's brought on by heat and friction and develops in the outer layer of skin. It mainly affects the palms and feet. The blisters heal without scarring. Junctional epidermolysis bullosa. This type may be severe, with blisters beginning in infancy. A baby with this condition may develop a hoarse-sounding cry from continual blistering and scarring of the vocal cords. Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa. This type is related to a flaw in the gene that helps produce a protein that glues the skin layers together. If this protein is missing or doesn't function, the layers of the skin won't join properly. It can cause skin that looks thin. Diseased mucous membranes can cause constipation and make it hard to eat. Kindler syndrome. This type tends to cause blisters in multiple layers and so can look very different from person to person. The blisters tend to show up in infancy or early childhood. It increases sun sensitivity and causes skin to look thin, mottled and wrinkly. Epidermolysis bullosa acquisita is distinct from these conditions, as it isn't inherited and it's rare in children. Risk factors The major risk factor for developing epidermolysis bullosa is having a family history of the disorder. Complications Epidermolysis bullosa can worsen even with treatment, so it's important to spot signs of complications early. Complications may include: Infection. Blistering skin can become infected by bacteria. Bloodstream infection. Sepsis occurs when bacteria from an infection enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. Sepsis can spread rapidly and lead to shock and organ failure.
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2025-05-14
| 395 |
c3986a99-d8e3-40d9-a623-418eacee1ff1
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/symptoms-causes/syc-20361062
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Complications Epidermolysis bullosa can worsen even with treatment, so it's important to spot signs of complications early. Complications may include: Infection. Blistering skin can become infected by bacteria. Bloodstream infection. Sepsis occurs when bacteria from an infection enter the bloodstream and spread throughout the body. Sepsis can spread rapidly and lead to shock and organ failure. Fusion of fingers and changes in the joints. Severe forms of epidermolysis bullosa can bind together fingers or toes and cause unusual bending of the joints (contractures). This can affect the function of the fingers, knees and elbows. Problems with nutrition. Blisters in the mouth can make eating difficult and lead to malnutrition and anemia, such as low iron levels in the blood. Problems with nutrition can also cause delayed wound healing and slowed growth in children. Constipation. Difficulty passing stool may be due to painful blisters in the anal area. It can also be caused by not ingesting enough liquids or high-fiber foods, such as fruits and vegetables. Dental problems. Tooth decay and problems with tissues inside the mouth are common with some types of epidermolysis bullosa. Skin cancer. Teenagers and adults with certain types of epidermolysis bullosa are at increased risk of a type of skin cancer called squamous cell carcinoma. Death. Infants with severe junctional epidermolysis bullosa are at high risk of infections and loss of body fluids from widespread blistering. Blisters in the mouth and throat also make it harder to eat and breathe. Many of these infants don't survive. Prevention It's not possible to prevent epidermolysis bullosa. But these steps may help prevent blisters and infection. Handle your child gently. Your infant or child needs cuddling, but be very gentle.
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2025-05-14
| 379 |
aebc2657-5d11-403d-91fe-6d106834e612
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/symptoms-causes/syc-20361062
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Infants with severe junctional epidermolysis bullosa are at high risk of infections and loss of body fluids from widespread blistering. Blisters in the mouth and throat also make it harder to eat and breathe. Many of these infants don't survive. Prevention It's not possible to prevent epidermolysis bullosa. But these steps may help prevent blisters and infection. Handle your child gently. Your infant or child needs cuddling, but be very gentle. To pick up a child with epidermolysis bullosa, place the child on soft material and give support under the buttocks and behind the neck. Don't lift the child from under the arms. Take special care with the diaper area. If your child wears diapers, remove the elastic bands and avoid cleansing wipes. Line the diaper with a nonstick dressing or spread it with a thick layer of zinc oxide paste. Keep the home environment cool. Try to keep your home cool and the temperature steady. Keep the skin moist. Gently apply moisturizer as needed throughout the day. Dress your child in soft clothes. Use soft clothing that's simple to get on and off. It may help to remove labels and put on clothing seam-side out to reduce scratching. Try sewing foam pads into the lining of clothing by elbows, knees and other pressure points. Use soft special shoes, if possible. Prevent scratching. Trim your child's fingernails regularly. Encourage your child to be active. As your child grows, encourage activities that reduce the risk of skin injury. Swimming is a good option. For children with mild forms of epidermolysis bullosa, they can protect the skin by wearing long pants and sleeves for outdoor activities. Cover hard surfaces. Consider padding a car seat or bathing tub with sheepskin, foam or a thick towel. Soft cotton or silk can be used as a top layer over the padding.
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2025-05-14
| 385 |
5a879794-e7cf-4d16-a82a-c2e26a8cd3c6
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/parvovirus-infection/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20376090
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Parvovirus infection
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Self-care treatment is aimed primarily at relieving signs and symptoms and easing any discomfort. Make sure you or your child gets plenty of rest and drinks lots of fluids. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) may help to relieve temperatures of more than 102 F (39 C) or minor aches and pains. Use caution when giving aspirin to children or teenagers. Though aspirin is approved for use in children older than age 3, children and teenagers recovering from chickenpox or flu-like symptoms should never take aspirin. This is because aspirin has been linked to Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, in such children. It's impractical and unnecessary to isolate your sick child. You won't know your child has parvovirus infection until the rash appears, and by that time, your child is no longer contagious.
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2025-05-14
| 178 |
4c9243c3-56ea-44d1-a31b-6decdcf05a16
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tennis-elbow/symptoms-causes/syc-20351987
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Tennis elbow
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Overview Tennis elbow Tennis elbow Tennis elbow The pain of tennis elbow occurs mainly where the tough, cord-like tissues of forearm muscles, known as tendons, attach to a bony bump on the outside of the elbow. Tiny tears and longtime swelling, known as inflammation, can cause the tendon to break down. This causes the pain. Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that can result from overuse of the muscles and tendons in the elbow. Tennis elbow is often linked to repeated motions of the wrist and arm. Despite its name, most people who get tennis elbow don't play tennis. Some people have jobs that involve repeated movements that can lead to tennis elbow. These include plumbers, painters, carpenters and butchers. However, often tennis elbow has no clear cause. The pain of tennis elbow occurs mainly where the tough, cord-like tissues of the forearm muscles attach to a bony bump on the outside of the elbow. The tissues are known as tendons. Pain can spread into the forearm and wrist. Rest, pain medicines and physical therapy often help relieve tennis elbow. People for whom these treatments don't help or who have symptoms that get in the way of daily living might have a procedure, such as a shot or surgery. Symptoms The pain of tennis elbow can travel from the outside of the elbow into the forearm and wrist. Pain and weakness can make it hard to: Shake hands or grip an object. Turn a doorknob. Hold a coffee cup. When to see a doctor Talk to a health care provider if self-care steps such as rest, ice and pain relievers don't ease your elbow pain and tenderness. Causes Tennis elbow is often linked to overuse and muscle strain. But the cause is not well understood. Sometimes, repeated tensing of the forearm muscles that are used to straighten and raise the hand and wrist triggers the symptoms.
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2025-05-14
| 386 |
14cdc197-dc0d-4c8e-8f4e-8a4e59ab8e57
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tennis-elbow/symptoms-causes/syc-20351987
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Tennis elbow
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Turn a doorknob. Hold a coffee cup. When to see a doctor Talk to a health care provider if self-care steps such as rest, ice and pain relievers don't ease your elbow pain and tenderness. Causes Tennis elbow is often linked to overuse and muscle strain. But the cause is not well understood. Sometimes, repeated tensing of the forearm muscles that are used to straighten and raise the hand and wrist triggers the symptoms. This can cause a breakdown of the fibers in the tendon that attaches the forearm muscles to the bony bump at the outside of the elbow. Activities that can cause tennis elbow symptoms include: Playing racket sports, especially using backhand, with poor form. Using plumbing tools. Painting. Driving screws. Cutting up foods for cooking, particularly meat. Using a computer mouse a lot. Less often, an injury or a condition that affects the body's connective tissues causes tennis elbow. Often, the cause isn't known. Risk factors Factors that can increase the risk of tennis elbow include: Age. Tennis elbow affects people of all ages. But it's most common in adults between the ages of 30 and 60. Work. People who have jobs that involve repeating motions of the wrist and arm are more likely to develop tennis elbow. These include plumbers, painters, carpenters, butchers and cooks. Certain sports. Playing racket sports increases the risk of tennis elbow. Not having good form or using poor equipment increases the risk even more. Playing more than two hours a day also increases the risk. Other factors that can increase the risk include smoking, being obese and certain medicines.
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2025-05-14
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db66c113-cf5b-4ef7-aca2-dfcc68fa1216
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ependymoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20580744
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Ependymoma
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Overview Ependymoma is a growth of cells that forms in the brain or spinal cord. The cells form a mass called a tumor. Ependymoma begins in the ependymal cells. These cells line the passageways that carry cerebrospinal fluid. This fluid surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. There are different types of ependymomas. Some grow slowly and aren't considered cancerous. Noncancerous tumors also are called benign tumors. A benign ependymoma may grow to press on nearby tissue. Sometimes ependymomas grow more quickly and are considered cancerous. Cancerous tumors also are called malignant tumors. A malignant ependymoma may grow to invade and destroy nearby tissue. Cancerous cells can break away and spread within the brain or spinal cord. Ependymoma can occur at any age, but most often happens in young children. Children with ependymoma may experience headaches and seizures. Ependymoma that occurs in adults is more likely to form in the spinal cord. It may cause weakness in the part of the body controlled by the nerves affected by the tumor. Surgery is the primary treatment for ependymoma. For tumors that are growing quickly or for tumors that can't be removed completely with surgery, additional treatments may be recommended. These may include radiation therapy, radiosurgery, chemotherapy or targeted therapy. Symptoms Ependymoma signs and symptoms may depend on where it happens. This tumor can form in the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms of ependymoma in the brain include: Blurry vision. Confusion. Headaches. Irritability. Nausea. Seizures. Vomiting. Symptoms of ependymoma in the spinal cord include: Bowel changes. Loss of balance. Pain in the neck or back. Trouble walking. Weakness in the legs.
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2025-05-14
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89aabbfa-ee21-4ad1-9b7d-04c7f759f52a
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ependymoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20580744
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Ependymoma
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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This tumor can form in the brain or spinal cord. Symptoms of ependymoma in the brain include: Blurry vision. Confusion. Headaches. Irritability. Nausea. Seizures. Vomiting. Symptoms of ependymoma in the spinal cord include: Bowel changes. Loss of balance. Pain in the neck or back. Trouble walking. Weakness in the legs. When to see a doctor Make an appointment with a doctor or other healthcare professional if you have any symptoms that worry you. Causes It's not clear what causes ependymoma. This tumor starts as a growth of cells in the brain or spinal cord. Ependymoma happens when cells in the brain or spinal cord develop changes in their DNA. A cell's DNA holds the instructions that tell the cell what to do. In healthy cells, the DNA gives instructions to grow and multiply at a set rate. The instructions tell the cells to die at a set time. In tumor cells, the DNA changes give different instructions. The changes tell the tumor cells to grow and multiply quickly. Tumor cells can keep living when healthy cells would die. This causes too many cells. Risk factors Factors that increase the risk of ependymoma include: Young age. Ependymoma can happen at any age. This cancer happens most often in children. Inherited syndromes. Some ependymomas are linked to genetic conditions passed down in families, such as with neurofibromatosis type 2 and Li-Fraumeni syndrome. The Mayo Clinic experience and patient stories Our patients tell us that the quality of their interactions, our attention to detail and the efficiency of their visits mean health care like they've never experienced. See the stories of satisfied Mayo Clinic patients.
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2025-05-14
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a4614e8f-37e0-462d-b0c9-ce94633a543c
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epithelioid-sarcoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20577575
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Epithelioid sarcoma
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis Epithelioid sarcoma can be hard to diagnose. It looks like problems that are much more common. Often healthcare professionals consider those more common problems first. For example, a sore on the skin that is not healing could be mistaken for a skin infection. Tests and procedures used in the diagnosis of epithelioid sarcoma include: Imaging tests. Imaging tests take pictures of the body. They can show the location and size of an epithelioid sarcoma. Tests might include X-ray, MRI, CT and positron emission tomography, which is also called a PET scan. Getting tissue for testing. A biopsy is a procedure to remove a sample of tissue for testing in a lab. The tissue might be removed using a needle that is put through the skin and into the cancer. Sometimes surgery is needed to get the tissue sample. The sample is tested in a lab to see if it is cancer. Other special tests give more details about the cancer cells. Your healthcare team uses this information to make a treatment plan. Treatment Surgery is the most common treatment for epithelioid sarcoma. Sometimes other treatments may be used in addition to surgery. Treatment options may include: Surgery. Surgery involves removing the cancer and some of the healthy tissue around it. Taking some healthy tissue helps make sure that all the cancer cells are removed. Getting all of the cancer cells lowers the risk that the cancer will come back. Radiation therapy uses powerful energy beams to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy is sometimes used before surgery to shrink the tumor. This can make it more likely that all of the cancer will be removed during surgery. Radiation therapy may be used after surgery to kill any cancer cells that might be left. Targeted therapy uses medicines that attack specific chemicals in the cancer cells that help them to grow. By blocking these chemicals, targeted treatments can cause cancer cells to die. Targeted therapy might be an option if you can't have surgery or if other treatments do not work.
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2025-05-14
| 395 |
e194ab4b-163a-40d3-b42f-a6e48a9c964b
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epithelioid-sarcoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20577575
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Epithelioid sarcoma
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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This can make it more likely that all of the cancer will be removed during surgery. Radiation therapy may be used after surgery to kill any cancer cells that might be left. Targeted therapy uses medicines that attack specific chemicals in the cancer cells that help them to grow. By blocking these chemicals, targeted treatments can cause cancer cells to die. Targeted therapy might be an option if you can't have surgery or if other treatments do not work. One targeted therapy used for epithelioid sarcoma is tazemetostat (Tazverik). Chemotherapy uses strong medicines to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be an option for treating epithelioid sarcoma that spreads to other parts of the body. It also might be used when surgery is not an option. Clinical trials are studies of new treatments. These studies provide a chance to try the latest treatment options. The side effects may not be known. Ask your healthcare team whether you might be able to take part in a clinical trial. Preparing for your appointment Make an appointment with a doctor or other healthcare professional if you have any symptoms that worry you. If your health professional thinks you may have epithelioid sarcoma, that person may refer you to a specialist. Often, this is a doctor who specializes in cancer, called an oncologist. Appointments can be short and being prepared can help. Here's some information that may help you get ready for your visit. What you can do When you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as fasting before having a specific test. Make a list of: Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to the reason for the appointment. Key personal information, including recent life changes and family medical history. All medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including the doses. Questions to ask your healthcare professional. For epithelioid sarcoma, some basic questions to ask your healthcare professional include: Do I have cancer? Do I need more tests?
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2025-05-14
| 400 |
34545cd0-510d-40d9-88e7-48ad66978cc7
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epithelioid-sarcoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20577575
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Epithelioid sarcoma
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Make a list of: Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to the reason for the appointment. Key personal information, including recent life changes and family medical history. All medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including the doses. Questions to ask your healthcare professional. For epithelioid sarcoma, some basic questions to ask your healthcare professional include: Do I have cancer? Do I need more tests? What are my treatment options? What are the potential risks for these treatment options? Do any of the treatments cure the cancer? Can I have a copy of the pathology report? How much time can I take to consider the treatment options? Are there brochures or other printed materials that I can take with me? What websites do you recommend? What would happen if I choose not to have treatment? Don't hesitate to ask other questions. What to expect from your doctor Your healthcare professional is likely to ask you several questions, such as: When did your symptoms begin? Have your symptoms been continuous or occasional? How bad are your symptoms? What, if anything, seems to improve your symptoms? What, if anything, appears to worsen your symptoms? Jan. 17, 2025 Sarcoma Discussions See more discussions
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2025-05-14
| 247 |
8b37f14f-0b2c-4c24-8cba-6da37300b6fa
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontal-lobe-seizures/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353962
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Frontal lobe seizures
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis Frontal lobe epilepsy can be hard to diagnose. Its symptoms can be mistaken for mental health problems or sleep disorders such as night terrors. It also is possible that some symptoms of frontal lobe seizures are the result of seizures that begin in other parts of the brain. To make a diagnosis, a health care professional reviews your symptoms and medical history. The care professional also conducts a physical exam. You may have blood drawn to test for health conditions or disorders that may be causing the seizures. You might need a neurological exam, which will test your: Muscle strength. Sensory skills. Hearing and speech. Vision. Coordination and balance. You also might need the following tests: Brain scans. Brain imaging — usually an MRI — might reveal the source of frontal lobe seizures. An MRI uses radio waves and a powerful magnetic field to produce detailed images of soft tissues, which make up the brain. An MRI involves lying on a narrow table that slides into a long tube. The test often takes about an hour. Some people have a fear of enclosed spaces. They can be given a medicine to feel sleepy and less anxious. The test itself is painless. Electroencephalogram, known as an EEG. An EEG monitors the electrical activity in the brain. This is done by attaching small metal discs called electrodes to the scalp. EEG s often help diagnose some types of epilepsy. However, EEG results might not identify frontal lobe epilepsy. Video EEG is recommended for some people with seizures. This test is usually performed during an overnight stay at a sleep clinic. Both a video camera and an EEG monitor run all night. A video EEG allows health care professionals to match what physically occurs during a seizure with what appears on the EEG . Treatment Over the past decade, treatment options have increased for frontal lobe seizures. There are newer types of anti-seizure medicines. There also are a variety of surgical procedures that might help if medicines don't work.
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2025-05-14
| 394 |
0d6f97e8-7ce1-4f03-a644-c5a59126bb3a
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontal-lobe-seizures/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353962
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Frontal lobe seizures
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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This test is usually performed during an overnight stay at a sleep clinic. Both a video camera and an EEG monitor run all night. A video EEG allows health care professionals to match what physically occurs during a seizure with what appears on the EEG . Treatment Over the past decade, treatment options have increased for frontal lobe seizures. There are newer types of anti-seizure medicines. There also are a variety of surgical procedures that might help if medicines don't work. Medications All anti-seizure medicines seem to work equally well at controlling frontal lobe seizures. But not everyone becomes seizure-free on medicine. You may need to try different types of anti-seizure medicines. Or you may need to take a combination of medicines to control your seizures. Researchers are continuing to look for new and more-effective medicines. Surgery Implanted vagus nerve stimulation Implanted vagus nerve stimulation Implanted vagus nerve stimulation In vagus nerve stimulation, a device placed under the skin of the chest stimulates the vagus nerve in the neck. This sends signals to the brain that lessen seizures. If your seizures can't be controlled with medicines, surgery might be an option. Before surgery, the goal is to find the areas of the brain where seizures occur. Imaging techniques can help identify the area generating seizures. These include single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT) and subtraction ictal SPECT coregistered to MRI (SISCOM). Another imaging technique, known as brain mapping, is commonly used before epilepsy surgery. Brain mapping involves implanting electrodes into an area of the brain. Then electrical stimulation is used to determine whether that area has an important function. This helps to rule out surgery on certain areas of the brain. Functional MRI (fMRI), in particular, is used to map the language area of the brain. If you have surgery for frontal lobe seizures, it's likely you'll need anti-seizure medicine after the surgery.
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2025-05-14
| 392 |
53a3eceb-1aba-452a-be87-a99c7a633642
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontal-lobe-seizures/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353962
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Frontal lobe seizures
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diagnosis-treatment
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Brain mapping involves implanting electrodes into an area of the brain. Then electrical stimulation is used to determine whether that area has an important function. This helps to rule out surgery on certain areas of the brain. Functional MRI (fMRI), in particular, is used to map the language area of the brain. If you have surgery for frontal lobe seizures, it's likely you'll need anti-seizure medicine after the surgery. But surgery may allow you to take a lower dose. Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation involves putting an electrode deep within the brain. The amount of stimulation delivered by the electrode is controlled by a device placed under the skin in the chest. A wire that travels under the skin connects the device to the electrode. Surgery for epilepsy might involve: Removing the focal point. If your seizures always begin in one spot in your brain, surgery removes that small portion of brain tissue. This might reduce the number of seizures you have. Or it might stop your seizures. Isolating the focal point. Sometimes the portion of the brain that's causing seizures is too vital to remove. When this happens, surgeons might make a series of cuts to help isolate that section of the brain. This prevents seizures from moving into other parts of the brain. Stimulating the vagus nerve. This involves implanting a device that's similar to a cardiac pacemaker, but it stimulates your vagus nerve. This procedure usually lowers the number of seizures you have. Responding to a seizure. A responsive neurostimulator is a newer type of implanted device. It is activated only when you begin to have a seizure. Once activated, it stops the seizure from occurring. Deep brain stimulation (DBS). This newer procedure involves implanting an electrode into your brain. The electrode is connected to a stimulating device under the skin of the chest. The device sends signals to the electrode in the brain to stop the activity that triggers a seizure.
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2025-05-14
| 392 |
51b66597-7210-4af0-ba12-d809fdae2838
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontal-lobe-seizures/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353962
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Frontal lobe seizures
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Responding to a seizure. A responsive neurostimulator is a newer type of implanted device. It is activated only when you begin to have a seizure. Once activated, it stops the seizure from occurring. Deep brain stimulation (DBS). This newer procedure involves implanting an electrode into your brain. The electrode is connected to a stimulating device under the skin of the chest. The device sends signals to the electrode in the brain to stop the activity that triggers a seizure. Lifestyle and home remedies You may find that some things trigger seizures. Seizures can be triggered by alcohol intake, smoking and, especially, lack of sleep. There also is evidence that severe stress can provoke seizures, and that seizures themselves can cause stress. Avoiding these triggers where possible might help improve seizure control. Alternative medicine Some people with neurological conditions, including seizures, turn to complementary and alternative medicine, such as: Herbs. Acupuncture. Psychotherapy. Mind-body techniques. Homeopathy. Researchers are looking into these therapies to determine their safety and effectiveness. However, good evidence that they're effective at reducing seizures is mostly still lacking. There is some evidence that a ketogenic diet might be effective for treating seizures, particularly in children. A ketogenic diet is a strict high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet. Many people with epilepsy use herbs to try to reduce their seizures. However, there's not enough evidence that most herbs are effective. Some herbs can cause an increased risk of seizures. Marijuana, also known as cannabis, is one of the most commonly used herbs for treating epilepsy. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a medicine that contains the purified marijuana chemical cannabidiol (Epidiolex). The medicine was approved to treat two rare forms of severe childhood epilepsy, Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Cannabidiol, also known as CBD , hasn't been approved in the United States or for any other types of epilepsy.
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2025-05-14
| 392 |
7f08d22c-fac9-4c29-bcbe-21ab46822295
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontal-lobe-seizures/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353962
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Frontal lobe seizures
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a medicine that contains the purified marijuana chemical cannabidiol (Epidiolex). The medicine was approved to treat two rare forms of severe childhood epilepsy, Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. Cannabidiol, also known as CBD , hasn't been approved in the United States or for any other types of epilepsy. Researchers are studying how effective CBD may be for treating other types of seizures. They're also studying its potential risks, including how CBD interacts with anti-seizure medicines. Cannabis products have been reported to make seizures worse. The FDA doesn't currently regulate herbal products. Herbs can interact with anti-seizure medicines, putting your health at risk. Talk to a health care professional before taking herbal or dietary supplements for your seizures. Coping and support Some people who have epilepsy are frustrated by their condition. Frontal lobe seizures can involve loud utterances or sexual movements that may make the person with epilepsy anxious. Parents of children with frontal lobe seizures can find information, resources and emotional connections from support groups. Support groups also can help children who have epilepsy. Counseling also can be important. Adults with epilepsy can find support through in-person and online groups. Preparing for your appointment You're likely to first see a health care professional. This person may refer you to a doctor trained in nervous system conditions, called a neurologist. What you can do Ask a family member or friend to come with you to the appointment to help you remember the information you receive. Make a list of: Your symptoms. Include even those that seem unrelated to the reason you scheduled the appointment, when they began and how often they occur. All medicines, vitamins and supplements you take, including doses. Questions to ask the health care professional. Some questions to ask include: What is likely causing my symptoms or condition? Will I likely have more seizures? Will I have different types of seizures?
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2025-05-14
| 395 |
18c8639a-ae7d-4e31-8d3e-d7d9b7e01f8d
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/frontal-lobe-seizures/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353962
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Frontal lobe seizures
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Make a list of: Your symptoms. Include even those that seem unrelated to the reason you scheduled the appointment, when they began and how often they occur. All medicines, vitamins and supplements you take, including doses. Questions to ask the health care professional. Some questions to ask include: What is likely causing my symptoms or condition? Will I likely have more seizures? Will I have different types of seizures? What tests do I need? Do they require any special preparation? What treatments are available, and which do you recommend? I have other medical problems. How can I manage them together? Is surgery a possibility? Will I have restrictions on my activity? Will I be able to drive? Are there brochures or other printed materials I can have? What websites do you recommend? What to expect from your doctor You're likely to be asked questions, such as: Did you notice any unusual sensations before the seizures? How often do the seizures occur? Can you describe a typical seizure? How long do the seizures last? Do the seizures occur in clusters? Do they all look the same or are there different seizure behaviors you or others have seen? Have you noticed seizure triggers, such as illness or lack of sleep? Has anyone in your immediate family ever had seizures? Sept. 19, 2023
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2025-05-14
| 262 |
7d3827fa-9062-4e52-b641-52ff5a0cc3dc
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis Epilepsy FAQs Pediatric neurologist Lily Wong-Kisiel, M.D., answers the most frequently asked questions about epilepsy. VIDEO Show transcript for video Epilepsy FAQs Ask Mayo Clinic - Epilepsy Lily Wong-Kisiel, M.D., Pediatric Neurologist, Mayo Clinic: What are the tests for epilepsy? Epilepsy is a syndrome diagnosis. It's a symptom that describes brainwave abnormalities. There are underlying causes that need to be evaluated. MRI of the brain to look for structural abnormality, EEG to look at characteristics of the brainwave activity so the physician can categorize which type or types of seizure the patient has. Then there are, in some children, genetic causes, neurometabolic causes or auto-immune causes that can be looked at. What is a seizure action plan? A seizure action plan is a roadmap for nurses and teachers at school to help your child should a seizure happen at school. It includes information about what type of seizure, what your child's seizure looks like, and if there is any anti-seizure medication that should be used while the seizure is happening to shorten the seizures or how to contact the family should prolonged seizures happen. How harmful are seizures? So most seizures are brief. Depending on the patient, there are absence seizures that are five to six seconds. Other patients may have generalized tonic-clonic seizures which last two to three minutes. Those short, brief seizures, although it may feel like a lifetime for parents, they do not cause negative impact on growth and development. However, we do have to worry about prolonged seizures that are greater than five minutes or multiple seizures, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, more than three in an hour, in which case, your doctor may talk to you about a seizure action plan. How are seizures monitored? This depends on the seizure type. For the absence seizures which are subtle staring, this depends on your observation of how often this is happening to your child.
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2025-05-14
| 397 |
aab635e7-c0f0-48c9-bbf5-f36b7decbc82
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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However, we do have to worry about prolonged seizures that are greater than five minutes or multiple seizures, generalized tonic-clonic seizures, more than three in an hour, in which case, your doctor may talk to you about a seizure action plan. How are seizures monitored? This depends on the seizure type. For the absence seizures which are subtle staring, this depends on your observation of how often this is happening to your child. For those patients where it's not possible or practical to monitor all the time, it is helpful to ask and talk to your physician about EEG monitoring with video ongoing. This could be helpful for those subtle seizures that are less detectable by visual inspection. For those patients who have nocturnal seizures where it's not practical to monitor consistently when everyone is asleep, video EEG monitoring can also be quite helpful in determining the seizure frequency. For those patients who have generalized tonic-clonic seizures where there are convulsive movements, there are FDA -cleared devices, wearable devices, that can detect these generalized tonic-clonic seizures based on movements. What is medically refractory epilepsy? Seizures that can't be controlled by medication. About a third of the patients with epilepsy can continue to have seizures despite appropriate treatment. In those patients, evaluation for surgery can be an option. Epilepsy surgery can be an option for those patients who have a focal epilepsy, where a focus can be identified and safely removed. Epilepsy surgery is also an option for certain types of generalized epilepsy, where disconnection surgery can be performed. How can I be the best partner to my epilepsy team? First of all, be prepared with your questions when you come to your clinic visits. Come with your observation of the different seizure type or types that you've observed, know what the duration of the seizures are and have a seizure calendar so that you and your physician and your care team can review the frequency of your seizures.
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2025-05-14
| 384 |
421b9a53-e78f-4ae5-b167-7450d8e0f0d6
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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Epilepsy surgery is also an option for certain types of generalized epilepsy, where disconnection surgery can be performed. How can I be the best partner to my epilepsy team? First of all, be prepared with your questions when you come to your clinic visits. Come with your observation of the different seizure type or types that you've observed, know what the duration of the seizures are and have a seizure calendar so that you and your physician and your care team can review the frequency of your seizures. Diagnosing your condition EEG brain activity EEG brain activity EEG brain activity An EEG records the electrical activity of the brain through electrodes put on the scalp. EEG results show changes in brain activity. This may help diagnose brain conditions such as epilepsy and other seizure conditions. CT scanner CT scanner CT scanner A CT scan can show nearly all parts of the body. Healthcare professionals use it to diagnose disease or injury and to plan medical, surgical or radiation treatment. Pinpointing seizure location Pinpointing seizure location Pinpointing seizure location These SPECT images show the blood flow in the brain when there's no seizure activity (left) and during a seizure (middle). The subtraction SPECT coregistered to MRI (right) helps pinpoint the area of seizure activity by overlapping the SPECT results with brain MRI results. To diagnose epilepsy, your healthcare professional reviews your symptoms and medical history. You may have several tests to diagnose epilepsy and to detect the cause of seizures. They may include: A neurological exam. This exam tests your behavior, movements, mental function and other areas. The exam helps diagnose epilepsy and determine the type of epilepsy you may have. Blood tests. A blood sample can detect signs of infections, genetic conditions or other conditions that may be associated with seizures. Genetic testing. In some people with epilepsy, genetic testing may give more information about the condition and how to treat it. Genetic testing is most often performed in children but also may be helpful in some adults with epilepsy.
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2025-05-14
| 395 |
9fa465db-f3df-4b5c-af4b-8f5507d15db2
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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This exam tests your behavior, movements, mental function and other areas. The exam helps diagnose epilepsy and determine the type of epilepsy you may have. Blood tests. A blood sample can detect signs of infections, genetic conditions or other conditions that may be associated with seizures. Genetic testing. In some people with epilepsy, genetic testing may give more information about the condition and how to treat it. Genetic testing is most often performed in children but also may be helpful in some adults with epilepsy. You also may have brain imaging tests and scans that detect brain changes: Electroencephalogram (EEG). This is the most common test used to diagnose epilepsy. In this test, small metal discs called electrodes are attached to your scalp with an adhesive or cap. The electrodes record the electrical activity of your brain. If you have epilepsy, it's common to have changes in the pattern of brain waves. These changes occur even when you're not having a seizure. Your healthcare professional may monitor you on video during an EEG to detect and record any seizures. This may be done while you're awake or asleep. Recording the seizures may help determine what kind of seizures you're having or rule out other conditions. The test may be done in a healthcare professional's office or the hospital. Or you may have an ambulatory EEG . The EEG records seizure activity over the course of a few days at home. You may get instructions to do something that can cause seizures, such as getting little sleep prior to the test. High-density EEG . In a variation of an EEG test, you may have a high-density EEG . For this test, electrodes are placed closer together compared with a conventional EEG . High-density EEG may help more precisely determine which areas of your brain are affected by seizures. Computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan uses X-rays to obtain cross-sectional images of your brain. CT scans can detect tumors, bleeding or cysts in the brain that might be causing epilepsy.
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2025-05-14
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7ab8d90b-9be9-4e7f-a367-67b865756e8b
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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High-density EEG . In a variation of an EEG test, you may have a high-density EEG . For this test, electrodes are placed closer together compared with a conventional EEG . High-density EEG may help more precisely determine which areas of your brain are affected by seizures. Computerized tomography (CT) scan. A CT scan uses X-rays to obtain cross-sectional images of your brain. CT scans can detect tumors, bleeding or cysts in the brain that might be causing epilepsy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create a detailed view of the brain. Like a CT scan, an MRI looks at the structure of the brain to detect what may be causing seizures. But an MRI provides a more detailed look at the brain than a CT scan. Functional MRI (fMRI). A functional MRI measures the changes in blood flow that occur when specific parts of the brain are working. This test may be used before surgery to identify the exact locations of critical functions, such as speech and movement. This allows surgeons to avoid those areas while operating. Positron emission tomography (PET). PET scans use a small amount of low-dose radioactive material. The material is injected into a vein to help visualize metabolic activity of the brain and detect changes. Areas of the brain with low metabolism may indicate places where seizures occur. Single-photon emission computerized tomography (SPECT). This type of test is used if MRI and EEG didn't pinpoint the location in the brain where the seizures start. A SPECT test uses a small amount of low-dose radioactive material. The material is injected into a vein to create a detailed, 3D map of blood flow during seizures. Areas of higher than typical blood flow may indicate areas where seizures occur. Another type of SPECT test called subtraction ictal SPECT coregistered to MRI (SISCOM) may provide even more-detailed results.
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2025-05-14
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38e6f307-abcc-4e18-a900-6c9e8abc3c5a
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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A SPECT test uses a small amount of low-dose radioactive material. The material is injected into a vein to create a detailed, 3D map of blood flow during seizures. Areas of higher than typical blood flow may indicate areas where seizures occur. Another type of SPECT test called subtraction ictal SPECT coregistered to MRI (SISCOM) may provide even more-detailed results. The test overlaps the SPECT results with brain MRI results. Neuropsychological tests. These tests assess thinking, memory and speech skills. The test results help determine which areas of the brain are affected by seizures. Along with your test results, a combination of other techniques may be used to help pinpoint where in the brain seizures start: Statistical parametric mapping (SPM). SPM looks at the areas of the brain with increased blood flow during seizures. It's compared to the same areas of the brains of people who don't have seizures. This provides information about where seizures begin. Electrical source imaging (ESI). ESI is a technique that takes EEG data and projects it onto an MRI of the brain. This is done to show areas where seizures are occurring. This technique provides more-precise detail than does EEG alone. Magnetoencephalography (MEG). MEG measures the magnetic fields produced by brain activity. This helps find the potential areas where seizures start. MEG can be more accurate than EEG because the skull and tissue surrounding the brain interfere less with magnetic fields. MEG and MRI together provide images that show areas of the brain both affected by seizures and not affected by seizures. Diagnosis of your seizure type and where seizures begin gives you the best chance for finding an effective treatment. Treatment Treatment can help people diagnosed with epilepsy have fewer seizures or even completely stop having seizures. Possible treatments include: Medicines. Surgery. Therapies that stimulate the brain using a device. A ketogenic diet.
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2025-05-14
| 387 |
cd1a0708-00e0-4267-b505-1e5830548006
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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MEG and MRI together provide images that show areas of the brain both affected by seizures and not affected by seizures. Diagnosis of your seizure type and where seizures begin gives you the best chance for finding an effective treatment. Treatment Treatment can help people diagnosed with epilepsy have fewer seizures or even completely stop having seizures. Possible treatments include: Medicines. Surgery. Therapies that stimulate the brain using a device. A ketogenic diet. Medication Most people with epilepsy can become seizure-free by taking one anti-seizure medicine, which is also called an anti-epileptic medicine. Others may be able to decrease the number and intensity of their seizures by taking more than one medicine. Many children with epilepsy who aren't having epilepsy symptoms can eventually stop taking medicines and live a seizure-free life. Many adults can stop taking medicines after two or more years without seizures. Your healthcare team can advise you about the appropriate time to stop taking medicines. Finding the right medicine and dosage can be complex. Your provider may consider your condition, how often you have seizures, your age and other factors when choosing which medicine to prescribe. Your provider also may review any other medicines you may be taking to ensure the anti-seizure medicines won't interact with them. You may first take a single medicine at a low dose. Then your healthcare professional may increase the dosage gradually until your seizures are well controlled. There are more than 20 different types of anti-seizure medicines available. The medicines that you take depend on the type of seizures you have, your age and other health conditions. Anti-seizure medicines may have some side effects. Mild side effects include: Fatigue. Dizziness. Weight gain. Loss of bone density. Skin rashes. Loss of coordination. Speech problems. Memory and thinking problems. More-serious but rare side effects include: Depression. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Severe rash. Inflammation of certain organs, such as the liver.
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2025-05-14
| 393 |
b9ff0586-b167-40f6-8225-9a11fb7459d2
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Anti-seizure medicines may have some side effects. Mild side effects include: Fatigue. Dizziness. Weight gain. Loss of bone density. Skin rashes. Loss of coordination. Speech problems. Memory and thinking problems. More-serious but rare side effects include: Depression. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Severe rash. Inflammation of certain organs, such as the liver. For the best seizure control possible with medicine, follow these steps: Take medicines exactly as prescribed. Always call your healthcare professional before switching to a generic version of your medicine or taking other medicines. This includes medicines you get with or without a prescription and herbal remedies. Never stop taking your medicine without talking to your healthcare professional. Tell your healthcare professional immediately if you notice new or increased feelings of depression or suicidal thoughts. Also contact your healthcare professional right away if you have changes in your mood or behaviors. Tell your healthcare professional if you have migraines. You may need an anti-seizure medicine that can prevent your migraines and treat epilepsy. At least half the people newly diagnosed with epilepsy become seizure-free with their first medicine. If anti-seizure medicines don't provide good results, you may be able to have surgery or other therapies. You'll likely have regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare professional to check on your condition and medicines. Surgery Epilepsy surgery When medicines do not provide enough control of seizures, epilepsy surgery may be an option. With epilepsy surgery, a surgeon removes the area of your brain that's causing seizures. Surgery usually is done when tests show that: Your seizures start in a small, well-defined area of your brain. The surgery wouldn't affect vital functions such as speech, language, movement, vision or hearing. For some types of epilepsy, minimally invasive approaches such as MRI -guided stereotactic laser ablation may help symptoms. These treatments may be used when open surgery is too risky.
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2025-05-14
| 386 |
15d4bdee-a2c4-42cd-b7c0-11d8ec292079
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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With epilepsy surgery, a surgeon removes the area of your brain that's causing seizures. Surgery usually is done when tests show that: Your seizures start in a small, well-defined area of your brain. The surgery wouldn't affect vital functions such as speech, language, movement, vision or hearing. For some types of epilepsy, minimally invasive approaches such as MRI -guided stereotactic laser ablation may help symptoms. These treatments may be used when open surgery is too risky. This procedure involves using a thermal laser probe directed at the area in the brain causing seizures. It destroys tissue in an effort to better control the seizures. You may continue to take medicine to help prevent seizures after successful surgery. However, you may be able to take fewer medicines and reduce your doses. In a small number of people, surgery for epilepsy can cause complications. Complications may include a permanent change in thinking abilities. Talk to your surgical team members about their experience, success rates and complication rates with the procedure you're considering. Therapies Implanted vagus nerve stimulation Implanted vagus nerve stimulation Implanted vagus nerve stimulation In vagus nerve stimulation, a device placed under the skin of the chest stimulates the vagus nerve in the neck. This sends signals to the brain that lessen seizures. Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation Deep brain stimulation involves putting an electrode deep within the brain. The amount of stimulation delivered by the electrode is controlled by a device placed under the skin in the chest. A wire that travels under the skin connects the device to the electrode. MRI of deep brain stimulation MRI of deep brain stimulation MRI of deep brain stimulation A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of deep brain stimulation shows the location of electrodes placed in the brain. Apart from medicines and surgery, these potential therapies offer an alternative for treating epilepsy: Vagus nerve stimulation. Vagus nerve stimulation may be an option when medicines haven't worked well enough to control seizures and surgery isn't possible.
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2025-05-14
| 395 |
a2f283be-8830-477b-92a3-9eee88616c0f
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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A wire that travels under the skin connects the device to the electrode. MRI of deep brain stimulation MRI of deep brain stimulation MRI of deep brain stimulation A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of deep brain stimulation shows the location of electrodes placed in the brain. Apart from medicines and surgery, these potential therapies offer an alternative for treating epilepsy: Vagus nerve stimulation. Vagus nerve stimulation may be an option when medicines haven't worked well enough to control seizures and surgery isn't possible. A device called a vagus nerve stimulator is implanted underneath the skin of the chest, similar to a heart pacemaker. Wires from the stimulator are connected to the vagus nerve in the neck. The battery-powered device sends bursts of electrical energy through the vagus nerve and to the brain. It's not clear how this inhibits seizures, but the device can usually reduce seizures by 20% to 40%. Most people still need to take anti-seizure medicine. But some people may be able to lower their medicine dose. Vagus nerve stimulation side effects may include throat pain, hoarse voice, shortness of breath or coughing. Deep brain stimulation. In deep brain stimulation, surgeons implant electrodes into a specific part of the brain, typically the thalamus. The electrodes are connected to a generator implanted in the chest. The generator regularly sends electrical pulses to the brain at timed intervals and may reduce seizures. Deep brain stimulation is often used for people whose seizures don't get better with medicine. Responsive neurostimulation. These implantable, pacemaker-like devices can help reduce how often seizures occur. The devices analyze brain activity patterns to detect seizures as they start. They deliver electrical stimulation to stop the seizure. Research shows that this therapy has few side effects and can provide long-term seizure relief. Ketogenic diet Some children and adults with epilepsy reduce their seizures by following a diet high in fats and low in carbohydrates. This may be an option when medicines aren't helping to control epilepsy.
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2025-05-14
| 399 |
9eea350a-e735-434e-a3c4-9d7c4c47e1b4
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Responsive neurostimulation. These implantable, pacemaker-like devices can help reduce how often seizures occur. The devices analyze brain activity patterns to detect seizures as they start. They deliver electrical stimulation to stop the seizure. Research shows that this therapy has few side effects and can provide long-term seizure relief. Ketogenic diet Some children and adults with epilepsy reduce their seizures by following a diet high in fats and low in carbohydrates. This may be an option when medicines aren't helping to control epilepsy. In this diet, called a ketogenic diet, the body breaks down fats instead of carbohydrates for energy. After a few years, some children may be able to stop the ketogenic diet and remain seizure-free. It's important for this to be done under supervision of healthcare professionals. Experts don't fully know how a ketogenic diet works to reduce seizures. But researchers think that the diet creates chemical changes that suppress seizures. The diet also alters the actions of brain cells to reduce seizures. Get medical advice if you or your child is considering a ketogenic diet. It's important to make sure that your child gets enough nutrients when following the diet. Side effects of a ketogenic diet may include dehydration, constipation and slowed growth from not getting enough nutrition. Side effects also may include a buildup of uric acid in the blood, which can cause kidney stones. These side effects are not common if the diet is properly and medically supervised. Following a ketogenic diet can be hard. Low-glycemic index and modified Atkins diets offer less restrictive alternatives that may still provide some help for seizure control. Potential future treatments Researchers are studying many potential new treatments for epilepsy, including: Continuous stimulation of the seizure onset zone, known as subthreshold stimulation. Subthreshold stimulation is continuous stimulation to an area of the brain below a level that's physically noticeable. This type of therapy appears to improve seizure outcomes and quality of life for some people with seizures. Subthreshold stimulation helps stop a seizure before it happens.
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2025-05-14
| 391 |
af23653b-2cdb-4a1a-b6cf-0a4916de3a75
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Potential future treatments Researchers are studying many potential new treatments for epilepsy, including: Continuous stimulation of the seizure onset zone, known as subthreshold stimulation. Subthreshold stimulation is continuous stimulation to an area of the brain below a level that's physically noticeable. This type of therapy appears to improve seizure outcomes and quality of life for some people with seizures. Subthreshold stimulation helps stop a seizure before it happens. This treatment may work in people who have seizures that start in an area of the brain called the eloquent area. This area can't be removed because it would affect speech and movements. Or it might help people with seizure types that may not improve with responsive neurostimulation. Minimally invasive surgery. New minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as MRI -guided focused ultrasound, show promise for treating seizures. These surgeries have fewer risks than traditional open-brain surgery for epilepsy. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). TMS applies focused magnetic fields on areas of the brain where seizures occur to treat seizures without the need for surgery. It may be used for patients whose seizures occur to the surface of the brain and can't be treated with surgery. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). This technique provides electrical stimulation through the scalp to the brain to reduce seizures over time. This treatment may be provided at home. Show transcript for video Pacemaker for epilepsy You see, an epileptic seizure is an abnormal electrical disturbance of the brain. The device is implanted under the skin, and four electrodes are attached to the outer layers of your brain. The device monitors brain waves, and when it senses abnormal electrical activity it fires electrical stimulation and stops the seizures. Clinical trials Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. Lifestyle and home remedies Understanding your condition can help you take better control of it: Take your medicine correctly. Don't adjust your dosage before talking to a member of your healthcare team.
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2025-05-14
| 396 |
ab11c266-a97d-4c49-89de-6fa3339b88fb
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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The device monitors brain waves, and when it senses abnormal electrical activity it fires electrical stimulation and stops the seizures. Clinical trials Explore Mayo Clinic studies testing new treatments, interventions and tests as a means to prevent, detect, treat or manage this condition. Lifestyle and home remedies Understanding your condition can help you take better control of it: Take your medicine correctly. Don't adjust your dosage before talking to a member of your healthcare team. If you feel that your medicine should be changed, talk with your healthcare professional. Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can trigger seizures. Be sure to get adequate rest every night. Wear a medical alert bracelet. This will help emergency staff know how to treat you correctly. Exercise. Exercising may help keep you physically healthy and reduce depression. Make sure to drink enough water, and rest if you get tired during exercise. In addition, make healthy life choices. Manage stress, limit alcohol and don't smoke cigarettes. Coping and support Not being able to control seizures can lead to depression. But you can live an active, full life with epilepsy. To help cope: Educate yourself and your friends and family about epilepsy so that they understand the condition. Try to ignore negative reactions from people. It helps to learn about epilepsy so that you know the facts as opposed to misconceptions about the disease. And try to keep your sense of humor. Live as independently as possible. Continue to work, if possible. If you can't drive because of your seizures, investigate public transportation options near you. If you are not cleared to drive, you might consider moving to a city with good public transportation options. Find a healthcare professional you like and with whom you feel comfortable. Try not to worry about having a seizure. Find an epilepsy support group to meet people who understand what you're going through. If you can't work outside of the home because of your seizures, you might consider working from home. And there are other ways to feel connected to people.
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2025-05-14
| 396 |
e0945f1a-f174-44ad-aa01-f2b6dd09e086
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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If you are not cleared to drive, you might consider moving to a city with good public transportation options. Find a healthcare professional you like and with whom you feel comfortable. Try not to worry about having a seizure. Find an epilepsy support group to meet people who understand what you're going through. If you can't work outside of the home because of your seizures, you might consider working from home. And there are other ways to feel connected to people. Let people you work and live with know how to handle a seizure. This can help if they are with you when you have one. You may offer them suggestions such as: Carefully roll the person onto one side to prevent choking. Place something soft under the person's head. Loosen tight neckwear. Don't place fingers or anything else in the person's mouth. People with epilepsy will not "swallow" their tongues during a seizure — it's physically impossible. Don't try to restrain someone having a seizure. If the person is moving, clear away dangerous objects. If immediate medical help is needed, stay with the person until medical staff arrive. Observe the person closely so that you can provide details on what happened. Time the seizures. Be calm during the seizures. Preparing for your appointment You may start by seeing your healthcare professional. However, when you call to set up an appointment, you may be referred immediately to a specialist. This specialist may be a doctor trained in brain and nervous system conditions, known as a neurologist. Or you may be referred to a neurologist trained in epilepsy, known as an epileptologist. Appointments can be brief and there's often a lot to talk about. It's a good idea to be well prepared. Here's information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect. What you can do Keep a detailed seizure calendar. Each time a seizure occurs, write down the time, the type of seizure and how long it lasted.
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2025-05-14
| 397 |
2eeeeea0-f4f4-44af-a08e-24cc9877baff
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Or you may be referred to a neurologist trained in epilepsy, known as an epileptologist. Appointments can be brief and there's often a lot to talk about. It's a good idea to be well prepared. Here's information to help you get ready for your appointment, and what to expect. What you can do Keep a detailed seizure calendar. Each time a seizure occurs, write down the time, the type of seizure and how long it lasted. Also make note of any circumstances surrounding the seizure. They might include missed medicines, lack of sleep, increased stress, menstruation or other events that might trigger seizure activity. Seek input from people who may observe your seizures, including family, friends and co-workers. It allows you to record information you may not know. Be aware of any pre-appointment restrictions. At the time you make the appointment, ask if there's anything you need to do in advance, such as restrict your diet. Write down key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes. Make a list of all medicines, vitamins or supplements that you're taking. Take a family member or friend along. Sometimes it can be difficult to remember all the information provided to you during an appointment. Someone who comes with you may remember something that you missed or forgot. You may not be aware of everything that happens when you're having a seizure. Someone else who has seen your seizures may be able to answer questions during your appointment. Write down questions to ask your healthcare professional. Preparing a list of questions helps you make the most of your appointment time. For epilepsy, some basic questions include: What is likely causing my seizures? What kinds of tests do I need? Is my epilepsy likely temporary or long-lasting? What treatment do you recommend? What are the alternatives to the primary treatment that you're suggesting? How can I make sure that I don't hurt myself if I have another seizure? I have these other health conditions.
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2025-05-14
| 394 |
e3a9c9b4-4cb3-4719-88c3-ec323f73d76e
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epilepsy/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20350098
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Epilepsy
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Write down questions to ask your healthcare professional. Preparing a list of questions helps you make the most of your appointment time. For epilepsy, some basic questions include: What is likely causing my seizures? What kinds of tests do I need? Is my epilepsy likely temporary or long-lasting? What treatment do you recommend? What are the alternatives to the primary treatment that you're suggesting? How can I make sure that I don't hurt myself if I have another seizure? I have these other health conditions. How can I best manage them together? Are there any restrictions that I need to follow? Should I see a specialist? What will that cost, and will my insurance cover it? Is there a generic alternative to the medicine you're prescribing? Are there any brochures or other printed material that I can take home with me? What websites do you recommend? In addition to the questions that you've prepared, don't hesitate to ask questions during your appointment at any time that you don't understand something. What to expect from your doctor Your healthcare professional is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as: When did you first begin experiencing seizures? Do your seizures seem to be triggered by certain events or conditions? Do you have similar sensations just before the onset of a seizure? Have your seizures occurred often or occasionally? What symptoms do you have when you experience a seizure? What, if anything, seems to improve your seizures? What, if anything, appears to worsen your seizures? What you can do in the meantime Certain conditions and activities can trigger seizures, so it may be helpful if you: Don't drink large amounts of alcohol. Don't use nicotine. Reduce stress. Also, it's important to keep a log of your seizures before your appointment. Oct. 14, 2023
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2025-05-14
| 362 |
458e4d9a-1bf5-409f-be8b-08a0f3cdaab8
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epiglottitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372231
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Epiglottitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis First, the medical team ensures that the airway is open and that enough oxygen is getting through. The team monitors breathing and blood oxygen levels. Oxygen levels that drop too low might need breathing aid. Tests after breathing is stable Throat exam. Using a flexible fiber-optic-lighted tube, a health care provider looks at the throat through the nose to see what's causing the symptoms. A numbing medicine applied to the nose can make the test more comfortable. This might be done in an operating room in case the airway becomes blocked. Chest or neck X-ray. They're not needed for a diagnosis, but X-rays might help providers check if you have epiglottitis. With epiglottitis, the X-ray may show what looks like a thumbprint in the neck. This is a sign of an enlarged epiglottis. Throat culture and blood tests. Once breathing is stable, a team member wipes the epiglottis with a cotton swab and checks the tissue sample for Hib . Blood cultures can find out whether there's an infection of the blood known as bacteremia. Bacteremia often is present with epiglottitis. Treatment Helping a person breathe is the first step in treating epiglottitis. Then treatment focuses on the infection. Helping with breathing Making sure that you or your child is breathing well might mean: Wearing an oxygen mask. The mask sends oxygen to the lungs. Having a breathing tube placed into the windpipe through the nose or mouth, known as intubation. The tube stays in place until the swelling in the throat goes down. This can take many days. Putting a needle into the windpipe, known as a needle cricothyroidotomy. In rare cases, a health care provider creates an emergency airway.
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2025-05-14
| 369 |
161dbe45-d785-4a5e-ba60-b46342e223a8
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epiglottitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20372231
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Epiglottitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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The mask sends oxygen to the lungs. Having a breathing tube placed into the windpipe through the nose or mouth, known as intubation. The tube stays in place until the swelling in the throat goes down. This can take many days. Putting a needle into the windpipe, known as a needle cricothyroidotomy. In rare cases, a health care provider creates an emergency airway. To get air into the lungs quickly, a provider puts a needle into an area of cartilage in the windpipe, also known as the trachea. Treating infection Antibiotics given through a vein treat epiglottitis. Broad-spectrum antibiotic. The infection needs quick treatment. So, a health care provider might prescribe a broad-spectrum drug right away, rather than waiting for results of the blood and tissue cultures. More-targeted antibiotic. The first medicine may be changed later, depending on what's causing the epiglottitis. Preparing for your appointment Epiglottitis is a medical emergency, so you won't have time to prepare for your appointment. The first health care provider you see might be in an emergency room. Nov. 11, 2022
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2025-05-14
| 242 |
51b7e994-9f3d-41c3-8c07-0297fbe1ddf0
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epididymitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20363854
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Epididymitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis To diagnosis epididymitis, your health care provider talks with you about your symptoms and examines your groin. This includes checking for enlarged lymph nodes in your groin and an enlarged testicle on the affected side. Your provider also might do a rectal exam to check for prostate enlargement or tenderness. Tests may include: STI screening. A narrow swab inserted into the end of your penis collects a sample of any discharge you may have. The sample is checked in the lab for gonorrhea and chlamydia. Urine and blood tests. Samples of your urine and blood may be sent to the lab for testing, too. Ultrasound. This imaging test uses sound waves to create pictures of your testicles. The test can show if you have testicular torsion. Testicular torsion is a twisting of the testicle that can cut off blood flow. If ultrasound with color Doppler shows lower blood flow to a testicle than is typical, the testicle is twisted. If blood flow is higher than typical, this can help confirm that you have epididymitis. Treatment Treatment for epididymitis often includes antibiotics and comfort measures. Sometimes, surgery may be needed. Antibiotics Antibiotics are needed to treat bacterial epididymitis and epididymo-orchitis — epididymitis infection that has spread to a testicle. If the cause of the bacterial infection is an STI , any sex partners also need treatment. Take all of the antibiotic medicine prescribed by your health care provider, even if your symptoms clear up sooner. This helps make sure that the infection is gone. Comfort measures You should start to feel better after 2 to 3 days on an antibiotic, but it may take several weeks for pain and swelling to go away. Resting, supporting the scrotum with an athletic supporter, applying ice packs and taking pain medicine can help relieve discomfort.
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2025-05-14
| 386 |
e0c762f3-3b61-42f3-aa49-cff873ab5c6e
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epididymitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20363854
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Epididymitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Take all of the antibiotic medicine prescribed by your health care provider, even if your symptoms clear up sooner. This helps make sure that the infection is gone. Comfort measures You should start to feel better after 2 to 3 days on an antibiotic, but it may take several weeks for pain and swelling to go away. Resting, supporting the scrotum with an athletic supporter, applying ice packs and taking pain medicine can help relieve discomfort. Your health care provider may want to see you at a follow-up visit to check that the infection is gone and your symptoms have improved. Surgery If an abscess has formed, you might need surgery to drain it. Sometimes, all or part of the epididymis needs to be removed surgically. This surgery is called an epididymectomy. Surgical repair might be done when underlying problems with the anatomy of the urinary tract lead to epididymitis. Lifestyle and home remedies Epididymitis often causes a lot of pain. Try these tips to ease your discomfort: Rest in bed. Lie down so that your scrotum is elevated. Apply cold packs to your scrotum as tolerated. Wear an athletic supporter. Avoid lifting heavy objects. Avoid sex until your infection has cleared. Preparing for your appointment You might be referred to a specialist in urinary issues, called a urologist. What you can do Before your appointment, make a list of: Your symptoms and when they began. Key medical information, including previous STIs or medical conditions and procedures. All medicines, vitamins, herbs or other supplements you take, including the doses. The dose is how much of the medicine you take. Questions to ask your health care provider. Some questions to ask your health care provider include: What's the most likely cause of my symptoms? Are there other possible causes? What tests do I need? What treatments do you recommend? How long will it take for me to feel better?
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2025-05-14
| 390 |
843018fd-752d-400e-840e-85d5122d073a
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epididymitis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20363854
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Epididymitis
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Key medical information, including previous STIs or medical conditions and procedures. All medicines, vitamins, herbs or other supplements you take, including the doses. The dose is how much of the medicine you take. Questions to ask your health care provider. Some questions to ask your health care provider include: What's the most likely cause of my symptoms? Are there other possible causes? What tests do I need? What treatments do you recommend? How long will it take for me to feel better? Should any of my partners be tested for an STI ? Should I restrict sexual activity during treatment? I have other medical problems. How can I best treat them together? Don't hesitate to ask other questions as they occur to you. What to expect from your doctor Your health care provider is likely to ask you questions, including: How bad are your symptoms? Are they constant, or do they come and go? Does anything seem to make your symptoms better or worse? Do you have discharge from your penis or blood in your semen? Do you have pain when you pass urine or a frequent or urgent need to urinate? Do you have pain during sex or when you ejaculate? Have you or any sex partner had or been tested for an STI ? Do your hobbies or work involve heavy lifting? Have you been diagnosed with a prostate condition or urinary tract infection? Have you had surgery in or near your urinary tract, or surgery that required the insertion of a catheter? Have you had a groin injury? What you can do in the meantime While you wait for your appointment, avoid sexual contact that could put a partner at risk of contracting an STI . This includes oral sex and any skin-to-skin contact with your genitals.
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2025-05-14
| 346 |
11e1e162-3069-43cf-8454-b696a7253a06
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361146
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis Your health care provider may identify epidermolysis bullosa from the skin's appearance. You or your child may need tests to confirm the diagnosis. The tests may include: Biopsy for immunofluorescence mapping. With this technique, a small sample of affected skin or mucous membrane is removed and examined with a special microscope. It uses reflected light to identify the layers of skin involved. This test also identifies whether the proteins needed for skin growth are present and healthy. Genetic testing. With this test, your health care provider takes a small sample of blood and sends it to a lab for DNA analysis. Prenatal testing. Families with a history of epidermolysis bullosa may want to consider prenatal testing and genetic counseling. Treatment Treatment for epidermolysis bullosa may first include lifestyle changes and home care. If these don't control symptoms, your health care provider might suggest one or more of the following treatments: Medications Medications can help control pain and itching. Your health care provider may also prescribe pills to fight infection (oral antibiotics) if there are signs of widespread infection, such as fever and weakness. Surgery Surgical treatment may be needed. Options sometimes used for this condition include: Widening the esophagus. Blistering and scarring of the long, hollow tube that runs from the throat to the stomach (esophagus) may lead to narrowing of the tube. This makes it hard to eat. Making the tube wider with surgery can make it easier for food to travel to the stomach. Placing a feeding tube. To improve nutrition and help with weight gain, a feeding tube (gastrostomy tube) may be needed to deliver food directly to the stomach. Grafting skin. If scarring has affected the function of a hand, the surgeon may suggest a skin graft. Restoring movement.
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2025-05-14
| 377 |
64763fe6-9ac6-47db-80cb-8e131fb154a4
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361146
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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This makes it hard to eat. Making the tube wider with surgery can make it easier for food to travel to the stomach. Placing a feeding tube. To improve nutrition and help with weight gain, a feeding tube (gastrostomy tube) may be needed to deliver food directly to the stomach. Grafting skin. If scarring has affected the function of a hand, the surgeon may suggest a skin graft. Restoring movement. Repeated blistering and scarring can cause fusing of the fingers or toes or unusual bends in the joints (contractures). A surgeon might recommend surgery to correct these conditions if they restrict movement. Rehabilitation therapy Working with a rehabilitation specialist can help in learning to live with epidermolysis bullosa. Depending on your goals and how movement is limited, you might work with a physical therapist or an occupational therapist. Potential future treatments Researchers are studying better ways to treat and relieve the symptoms of epidermolysis bullosa, including: Gene therapy, including a gel applied to wounds of people with dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa Bone marrow (stem cell) transplantation Protein replacement therapies Other cell-based therapies Lifestyle and home remedies You can take steps at home to care for blisters and prevent new ones from forming. Talk with your health care provider about how to care for wounds and provide good nutrition. Caring for blisters Your health care provider can show you how to care for blisters properly and advise you on ways to prevent them. Ask about safe ways to drain blisters before they get too large. Ask about recommended products for keeping the affected areas moist. This helps with healing and preventing infection. In general, take these steps: Wash your hands. Wash your hands before touching blisters or changing dressings. Control pain. About 30 minutes before a dressing change or other painful procedure, older children and adults may take a prescription-strength pain medication.
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2025-05-14
| 385 |
a15a7e7c-d56a-4c1b-a60e-e29e0debf352
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361146
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Ask about safe ways to drain blisters before they get too large. Ask about recommended products for keeping the affected areas moist. This helps with healing and preventing infection. In general, take these steps: Wash your hands. Wash your hands before touching blisters or changing dressings. Control pain. About 30 minutes before a dressing change or other painful procedure, older children and adults may take a prescription-strength pain medication. For people who don't respond to pain relievers, other options include antiseizure drugs such as gabapentin. Cleanse skin daily. To cleanse a wound, soak it for 5 to 10 minutes in a mild solution of salt and water. Other options are mild solutions of diluted vinegar or bleach. Soaking loosens stuck bandages and helps reduce the pain of changing bandages. Rinse with lukewarm water. Puncture new blisters. This prevents them from spreading. Use a sterile needle to puncture each new blister in two spots. But leave the roof of the blister intact to allow for drainage while protecting the underlying skin. Apply treated dressings. Spread petroleum jelly or other thick moisturizer on a nonstick bandage (Mepilex, Telfa, Vaseline gauze). Then gently place the bandage on the wound. Secure the bandage with rolled gauze if needed. Wrap blistered hands and feet daily. With some severe forms of this condition, daily wraps help prevent contractures and fusion of the fingers and toes. Special wraps and gauze dressings are useful for this treatment. Watch for signs of infection. If you notice heat, pus or lines leading from the blister, talk with your health care provider about prescription antibiotics. Keep it cool. Blistering is often worsened by heat and warm conditions. Providing good nutrition A varied, nutritious diet promotes growth and development in children and helps wounds heal.
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2025-05-14
| 384 |
111aca1b-171d-4511-9483-2b7d4192e221
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361146
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Special wraps and gauze dressings are useful for this treatment. Watch for signs of infection. If you notice heat, pus or lines leading from the blister, talk with your health care provider about prescription antibiotics. Keep it cool. Blistering is often worsened by heat and warm conditions. Providing good nutrition A varied, nutritious diet promotes growth and development in children and helps wounds heal. If blisters in the mouth or throat make it difficult to eat, here are some suggestions: For babies with mild epidermolysis bullosa, breastfeeding is fine. Otherwise, minimize injury from feeding by using bottle nipples designed for premature infants, a syringe or a rubber-tipped medicine dropper. Try softening bottle nipples in warm boiled water. For older children, serve nutritious, soft foods that are easy to swallow, such as vegetable soup and fruit smoothies. Puree solid foods with broth or milk. Serve food and beverages lukewarm, at room temperature or cold. Talk with your health care provider about how you or your child can get all the needed nutrients and vitamins. Coping and support Having a child with epidermolysis bullosa affects every aspect of your life. It can be emotionally distressing for you, your child and family members. Children with this condition need the lifelong support of their health care team and families. Treating and preventing blisters and worrying about complications can be stressful. You may find it helpful to share concerns and experiences with families in similar circumstances. Ask your health care provider about epidermolysis bullosa support groups in your area. If joining a support group isn't for you, ask about counselors, clergy or social workers who work with families coping with epidermolysis bullosa. Ask your health care provider to suggest stress-reduction resources or consult with a psychologist to learn stress-reduction techniques. These approaches may help you cope.
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2025-05-14
| 383 |
68c7958a-a6ce-4fb9-88b2-82bc02a23f84
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361146
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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You may find it helpful to share concerns and experiences with families in similar circumstances. Ask your health care provider about epidermolysis bullosa support groups in your area. If joining a support group isn't for you, ask about counselors, clergy or social workers who work with families coping with epidermolysis bullosa. Ask your health care provider to suggest stress-reduction resources or consult with a psychologist to learn stress-reduction techniques. These approaches may help you cope. Preparing for your appointment You may be referred to a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions (dermatologist). Specialized epidermolysis bullosa centers Centers that specialize in the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of people with epidermolysis bullosa may belong to a network called EB Clinet. Such centers are staffed with doctors, nurses, social workers and rehabilitation specialists who provide specialized care for people with this condition. Visiting such a center regularly can improve quality of life and reduce hospitalizations from complications for people with epidermolysis bullosa. Ask your health care provider if a specialized epidermolysis bullosa center is available to you. No matter what type of health care provider you see first, here's some information to help you prepare for the appointment. What you can do List your or your child's signs and symptoms and how long they've been present. Note any new sources of friction around the blistering areas, if any. For example, tell your health care provider if your toddler has recently started walking or your older child has begun physical activities that put new pressure on the affected areas. List key medical information, including other medical problems you or your child has received a diagnosis for. Also list the names of all nonprescription and prescription medications you or your child is taking. Also list any vitamins and supplements. Ask a trusted family member or friend to join you for the appointment.
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2025-05-14
| 389 |
4f299b99-c943-4022-a3ac-5afaf562d19f
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361146
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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For example, tell your health care provider if your toddler has recently started walking or your older child has begun physical activities that put new pressure on the affected areas. List key medical information, including other medical problems you or your child has received a diagnosis for. Also list the names of all nonprescription and prescription medications you or your child is taking. Also list any vitamins and supplements. Ask a trusted family member or friend to join you for the appointment. If your health care provider tells you that your child has epidermolysis bullosa, you may have difficulty focusing on anything else that's said. Take someone along who can offer emotional support and help you recall all the information discussed at your appointment. List the questions to ask your health care provider. Questions to ask your doctor What's the most likely cause of the signs and symptoms? What are other possible causes for these signs and symptoms? What kinds of tests are needed? What treatments are available, and what types of side effects might they cause? What can be done to relieve pain or discomfort? How do I take care of my child's needs, such as feeding, bathing and clothing? What are the possible complications of this condition? What signs or symptoms related to this condition should prompt me to call you? What signs or symptoms should prompt me to call 911 or my local emergency number? What restrictions do we need to follow? Do you think my child's symptoms will improve with age? If I plan to have more children, are they at increased risk of this condition? How can I find other people who are coping with epidermolysis bullosa? Where can I find additional information and resources? What to expect from your doctor Your health care provider is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer questions such as the following may reserve time to go over any points you want to talk about in-depth: When did you first notice the blistering? What parts of the body have been affected?
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2025-05-14
| 399 |
1f859fdb-3c61-46ae-9557-b8b54f81bc88
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/epidermolysis-bullosa/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20361146
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Epidermolysis bullosa
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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How can I find other people who are coping with epidermolysis bullosa? Where can I find additional information and resources? What to expect from your doctor Your health care provider is likely to ask you a number of questions. Being ready to answer questions such as the following may reserve time to go over any points you want to talk about in-depth: When did you first notice the blistering? What parts of the body have been affected? Does anything in particular seem to trigger blistering? For example, is it made worse by heat? Have sores developed where bandages and adhesive tape have been applied? Have you noticed other signs or symptoms in addition to blistering? For example, a hoarse voice? Does eating or swallowing cause pain? Has anyone in your family had a condition marked by significant blistering? What you can do in the meantime In the time leading up to your appointment, you can minimize the risk of your child developing new blisters by: Lifting or touching the child very gently Keeping your home consistently cool if possible Keeping your child's skin moist with lubricants, such as petroleum jelly Dressing your child only in soft materials Keeping your child's fingernails short Call your health care provider immediately if you see signs of infection around a blister.
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2025-05-14
| 257 |
b85878d8-9157-4e8e-80d1-282cdebc5467
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eosinophilic-esophagitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372197
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Eosinophilic esophagitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Overview Eosinophilic esophagitis Eosinophilic esophagitis Eosinophilic esophagitis Esophagitis is swelling and irritation, called inflammation, of the tissues that line the esophagus. A long, flexible tube that’s tipped with a camera, called an endoscope, can be used to see inside the esophagus. This endoscopic image of eosinophilic esophagitis shows irritated rings of irregular tissue that stem from ongoing inflammation. These are known as esophageal rings. Eosinophilic esophagitis (e-o-sin-o-FILL-ik uh-sof-uh-JIE-tis) is a chronic immune system disease. With this disease, a type of white blood cell, called an eosinophil, builds up in the lining of the tube that connects your mouth to your stomach. This tube is also called the esophagus. This buildup, which is a reaction to foods, allergens or acid reflux, can inflame or injure the esophageal tissue. Damaged esophageal tissue can lead to difficulty swallowing or cause food to get stuck when you swallow. Eosinophilic esophagitis has been identified only since the early '90s, but is now considered a major cause of digestive system illness. Research is ongoing and will likely lead to revisions in the diagnosis and treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis.
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2025-05-14
| 296 |
d71dd373-c3f0-45cb-94c4-5babcdbc1cae
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eosinophilic-esophagitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372197
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Eosinophilic esophagitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Damaged esophageal tissue can lead to difficulty swallowing or cause food to get stuck when you swallow. Eosinophilic esophagitis has been identified only since the early '90s, but is now considered a major cause of digestive system illness. Research is ongoing and will likely lead to revisions in the diagnosis and treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis. Symptoms Signs and symptoms include: Adults: Difficulty swallowing, also called dysphagia Food getting stuck in the esophagus after swallowing, also known as impaction Chest pain that is often centrally located and does not respond to antacids Backflow of undigested food, known as regurgitation Children: Difficulty feeding, in infants Difficulty eating, in children Vomiting Abdominal pain Difficulty swallowing, also called dysphagia Food getting stuck in the esophagus after swallowing, also known as impaction No response to GERD medication Failure to thrive, including poor growth, malnutrition and weight loss When to see a doctor Seek immediate medical attention if you experience chest pain, especially if you also have shortness of breath or jaw or arm pain. These may be symptoms of a heart attack. Make an appointment with your health care provider if you experience severe or frequent eosinophilic esophagitis symptoms. If you take nonprescription medicines for heartburn more than twice a week, see your health care provider. Causes Eosinophils are a typical type of white blood cells present in your digestive tract. However, in eosinophilic esophagitis, you have an allergic reaction to an outside substance. The reaction may occur as follows: Reaction of the esophagus. The lining of your esophagus reacts to allergens, such as food or pollen. Multiplication of eosinophils. The eosinophils multiply in your esophagus and produce a protein that causes inflammation. Damage to the esophagus.
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2025-05-14
| 394 |
5a7a5a65-3de7-4798-bf76-24ccfeb52aab
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eosinophilic-esophagitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372197
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Eosinophilic esophagitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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However, in eosinophilic esophagitis, you have an allergic reaction to an outside substance. The reaction may occur as follows: Reaction of the esophagus. The lining of your esophagus reacts to allergens, such as food or pollen. Multiplication of eosinophils. The eosinophils multiply in your esophagus and produce a protein that causes inflammation. Damage to the esophagus. Inflammation can lead to scarring, narrowing and formation of excessive fibrous tissue in the lining of your esophagus. Dysphagia and impaction. You may have difficulty swallowing, called dysphagia. Or food may become stuck when you swallow. This is known as impaction. Additional symptoms. You may have other symptoms, such as chest pain or stomach pain. There has been a significant increase in numbers of people diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis in the past decade. At first, researchers thought this was due to an increase in awareness among health care providers and greater availability of tests. However, studies now suggest that the disease is becoming increasingly common, parallel to the increase in asthma and allergies. Risk factors The following risk factors are associated with eosinophilic esophagitis: Climate. People who live in a cold or dry climate are more likely than those in other climates to be diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis. Season. You're more likely to be diagnosed between the spring and fall, probably because levels of pollen and other allergens are higher and people are more likely to be outdoors. Sex. Eosinophilic esophagitis is more common in males than in females. Family history. Researchers think that eosinophilic esophagitis may have a genetic component because the condition sometimes runs in families. If your family members have eosinophilic esophagitis, you have a greater chance of being diagnosed. Allergies and asthma.
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2025-05-14
| 398 |
5e1161f2-b8ac-4599-af35-6ca6a3efdf26
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/eosinophilic-esophagitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20372197
|
Eosinophilic esophagitis
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symptoms-causes
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mayo
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Sex. Eosinophilic esophagitis is more common in males than in females. Family history. Researchers think that eosinophilic esophagitis may have a genetic component because the condition sometimes runs in families. If your family members have eosinophilic esophagitis, you have a greater chance of being diagnosed. Allergies and asthma. If you have food or environmental allergies, asthma, atopic dermatitis, or a chronic respiratory disease, you're more likely to be diagnosed with eosinophilic esophagitis. Age. Originally, eosinophilic esophagitis was thought to be a childhood disease, but now it is known to be common in adults as well. The symptoms differ somewhat between children and adults. Complications In some people, eosinophilic esophagitis can lead to the following: Scarring and narrowing of the esophagus. This makes it difficult to swallow and more likely that you will have food get stuck. Because of inflammation of the esophagus, endoscopy can cause perforation or tears in the tissue that lines the esophagus. Tearing also can occur in connection with retching that some people experience when they get food stuck in the esophagus. July 02, 2024
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2025-05-14
| 263 |
c55e7207-be4c-423d-a26c-2eb526fd2594
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tennis-elbow/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351991
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Tennis elbow
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis Often, medical history and an exam are enough to diagnose tennis elbow. During the physical exam, a health care provider might press on the affected area or ask you to move your elbow, wrist and fingers in various ways. X-rays, sonograms or other types of imaging tests might be needed if a care provider suspects something else might be causing the symptoms. Treatment Tennis elbow often gets better on its own. But if pain medicines and other self-care measures aren't helping, physical therapy might be the next step. A procedure, such as a shot or surgery, might help tennis elbow that doesn't heal with other treatments. Therapy If symptoms are related to tennis or job tasks, an expert might look at how you play tennis or do job tasks or check your equipment. This is to find the best ways to reduce stress on injured tissue. A physical, occupational or hand therapist can teach exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the forearm. A forearm strap or brace might reduce stress on the injured tissue. Surgical or other procedures Shots. Different types of shots into the affected tendon are used to treat tennis elbow. They include corticosteroids and platelet-rich plasma. Less commonly used are botulinum toxin A (Botox) or an irritant solution, either sugar water or salt water, known as prolotherapy. Dry needling, in which a needle gently pierces the damaged tendon in many places, also can be helpful. Needle fenestration. This procedure uses ultrasound to guide a needle through a numbed tendon again and again. This starts a new healing process in the tendon. Ultrasonic tenotomy, called a TENEX procedure. Similar to needle fenestration, this procedure uses ultrasound to guide a special needle through the skin and into the damaged part of the tendon. Ultrasonic energy vibrates the needle so fast that the damaged tissue turns to liquid. It then can be sucked out.
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2025-05-14
| 387 |
0ac00673-6daa-4542-977a-2c285c466caa
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tennis-elbow/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351991
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Tennis elbow
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Needle fenestration. This procedure uses ultrasound to guide a needle through a numbed tendon again and again. This starts a new healing process in the tendon. Ultrasonic tenotomy, called a TENEX procedure. Similar to needle fenestration, this procedure uses ultrasound to guide a special needle through the skin and into the damaged part of the tendon. Ultrasonic energy vibrates the needle so fast that the damaged tissue turns to liquid. It then can be sucked out. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy. This treatment involves sending shock waves to injured tissue to relieve pain and help the tissue heal. A tool placed on the skin delivers the shock waves. Surgery. For symptoms that haven't improved after 6 to 12 months of other treatments, surgery to remove damaged tissue might be an option. The surgery might be open, which uses a large cut, known as an incision. Or it can be done through several small openings, known as arthroscopic. Whatever the treatment, exercises to rebuild strength and regain use of the elbow are vital to recovery. Lifestyle and home remedies The following self-care measures might relieve tennis elbow: Rest. Do not do activities that aggravate elbow pain. Pain relievers. Try pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve). Ice. Apply ice or a cold pack for 15 minutes 3 to 4 times a day. Preparing for your appointment You'll likely start by seeing your health care provider. You might then go to a sports medicine specialist or an orthopedic surgeon. What you can do Before your appointment, you may want to have answers to these questions: When did your symptoms begin? Does any motion or activity make the pain better or worse? Have you recently injured your elbow? What medications or supplements do you take?
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2025-05-14
| 377 |
3b100365-6ed0-4ef5-9431-acd1b0aa7b45
|
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/tennis-elbow/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20351991
|
Tennis elbow
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Preparing for your appointment You'll likely start by seeing your health care provider. You might then go to a sports medicine specialist or an orthopedic surgeon. What you can do Before your appointment, you may want to have answers to these questions: When did your symptoms begin? Does any motion or activity make the pain better or worse? Have you recently injured your elbow? What medications or supplements do you take? What to expect from your doctor Your health care provider may ask some of the following questions: Do you have rheumatoid arthritis or a nerve disease? Does your job involve repetitive motions of your wrist or arm? Do you play sports? If so, what types of sports do you play? Has your form ever been evaluated? April 29, 2025
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2025-05-14
| 154 |
c0cd588d-f185-455e-8ad4-2c3efc1806ea
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https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ependymoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20580745
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Ependymoma
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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Diagnosis Tests and procedures used to diagnose ependymoma include: Neurological exam. During a neurological exam, a healthcare professional checks vision, hearing, balance, coordination, strength and reflexes. Problems in one or more of these areas may provide clues about the part of the brain or spinal cord that could be affected by a tumor. Imaging tests make pictures of the body. They can show the location and size of an ependymoma. MRI is often used to diagnose brain tumors. It may be used along with specialized MRI imaging, such as magnetic resonance angiography. Because ependymoma can happen in the brain and the spinal cord, imaging tests may be used to create pictures of both areas. Cerebrospinal fluid testing. Called a lumbar puncture or spinal tap, this procedure involves inserting a needle between two bones in the lower spine. The needle draws out fluid from around the spinal cord. The fluid is tested to look for tumor cells. Based on the test results, your healthcare professional may suspect ependymoma and recommend surgery to remove the tumor. Once removed, the tumor cells are tested in a lab to confirm the diagnosis. Special tests can tell the healthcare team about the types of cells involved in the tumor. Your healthcare team may use this information to guide treatment decisions. Treatment Ependymoma treatment options include: Surgery Brain surgeons, called neurosurgeons, work to remove as much of the ependymoma as possible. The goal is to remove the entire tumor. Sometimes the ependymoma is located near sensitive brain or spinal tissue that makes that too risky. If the entire tumor is removed during surgery, additional treatment may not be needed. If some tumor remains, the neurosurgeon may recommend another operation to try to remove the rest of the tumor. Additional treatments, such as radiation therapy, may be recommended for cancerous tumors or if all of the tumor can't be removed.
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2025-05-14
| 392 |
15a99489-096a-4f73-b7f8-1e6190b59698
|
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ependymoma/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20580745
|
Ependymoma
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diagnosis-treatment
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mayo
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The goal is to remove the entire tumor. Sometimes the ependymoma is located near sensitive brain or spinal tissue that makes that too risky. If the entire tumor is removed during surgery, additional treatment may not be needed. If some tumor remains, the neurosurgeon may recommend another operation to try to remove the rest of the tumor. Additional treatments, such as radiation therapy, may be recommended for cancerous tumors or if all of the tumor can't be removed. Radiation therapy Radiation therapy uses powerful energy beams to kill tumor cells. The energy can come from X-rays, protons or other sources. During radiation therapy, a machine directs beams of energy to specific points to kill the tumor cells there. Radiation therapy may be recommended after surgery to help prevent cancerous tumors from coming back. It also may be recommended if neurosurgeons weren't able to remove the tumor completely. Some special types of radiation therapy help focus the radiation treatment on the tumor cells. These special types of radiation may reduce the risk of damage to nearby healthy cells. Examples include conformal radiation therapy, intensity-modulated radiation therapy and proton therapy. Radiosurgery Stereotactic radiosurgery is an intense form of radiation treatment. It aims beams of radiation from many angles at the tumor. Each beam isn't very powerful. But the point where the beams meet gets a very large dose of radiation that kills the tumor cells. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy uses medicines to kill tumor cells. Chemotherapy isn't often used to treat ependymoma. It might be an option in certain situations, such as when the tumor grows back despite surgery and radiation. Targeted therapy Targeted therapy uses medicines that attack specific chemicals in the tumor cells. By blocking these chemicals, targeted treatments can cause tumor cells to die. Targeted therapy might be an option to treat an ependymoma that comes back after treatment. Clinical trials Clinical trials are studies of new treatments.
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2025-05-14
| 388 |
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