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TrueHealth 8

I have undergone Total Hip Replacement of both my hip jonts in 1977 (Charnley Process ) My left joint is completely worn out.How safe and effective is revision surgery..can I get a cementless joint..I am 66 years old..An early repy to my query will be very much appreciated.

Total Hip Replacement

Treatment

When Is Revision Surgery Necessary? Hip replacement is one of the most successful orthopaedic surgeries performed. However, because more people are having hip replacements at a younger age, and wearing away of the joint surface becomes a problem after 15 to 20 years, replacement of an artificial joint, which is also known as revision surgery, is becoming more common. It is more difficult than first-time hip replacement surgery, and the outcome is generally not as good, so it is important to explore all available options before having additional surgery. Doctors consider revision surgery for two reasons: if medication and lifestyle changes do not relieve pain and disability, or if x rays of the hip show damage to the bone around the artificial hip that must be corrected before it is too late for a successful revision. This surgery is usually considered only when bone loss, wearing of the joint surfaces, or joint loosening shows up on an x ray. Other possible reasons for revision surgery include fracture, dislocation of the artificial parts, and infection.

my dads condition

my dad is being treated at University of Washington School of Medicine for infection cause by hole in his urine tract and i am interested in any treats for his problem.

urine tract infection

Treatment

Intraperitoneal Rupture: If the tear is on the top of the bladder, the hole will usually communicate with the abdominal cavity that holds all of the vital organs (liver, spleen and bowel). This injury should be surgically repaired. Urine that leaks into the abdomen is a serious problem. The repair is performed by making an abdominal incision and sewing the tear closed. A catheter is left in the bladder for up to 2 weeks to rest the bladder after the surgery, either through the urethra or coming directly out the abdominal wall, below the bellybutton. Extraperitoneal Rupture: If the tear is at the bottom or sides of the bladder, the urine will not leak into the abdominal cavity but into the tissues around the bladder. Patients who have complex injuries of this type should have surgical repair of the injury but in some circumstances small injuries can be treated by simply placing a large diameter catheter into the bladder to keep it empty and allow the urine and blood to drain out into a collection bag. If the catheter does not drain properly, surgical repair is required. Allowing the bladder to repair itself in this fashion usually takes at least 10 days and the catheter is not removed until an X-ray is done as described above to prove the leak has sealed. Penetrating Injuries: Patients who have injury to the bladder from a penetrating object are usually operated upon and the hole(s) is surgically repaired. Most of the time other organs in the area will be injured and need repair as well. A catheter is left in the bladder to drain the urine and blood as described above.

Jock Itch

I have Jock itch, and I have read through your symptoms. I wanted know if small lumps under the skin around the scrotum area is a symptoms as well? Should I be concerned?

Jock Itch

Symptom

Signs and Symptoms Large round, red patches with bumpy, scaling edges occur in the groin and may extend down the inner thigh or onto the belly or buttocks areas. Jock itch is usually not present on the genitals. It is usually very itchy.

Tetanus immunity

How long after Tetanus vaccine administration does a patient have immunity? I have not been able to find this information on CDC site.

Tetanus vaccine

Treatment

Antibody levels do not rise until 4 days after vaccination (5), so vaccination at the time of injury is of no use. - See more at: http://www.vaccinationcouncil.org/2010/08/19/tetanus-toxoid-vaccination-an-overview/#sthash.6RfMXh39.dpuf

Serum Creatinine

My serum creatinine level is 1.1. I am 36 years old and having kidney stone . My question is , will the kidney stone affect the serum creatinine result?

kidney stone/Serum Creatinine

Symptom

What does the test result mean? Creatinine Reference Range Increased creatinine levels in the blood suggest diseases or conditions that affect kidney function. These can include: Damage to or swelling of blood vessels in the kidneys (glomerulonephritis) caused by, for example, infection or autoimmune diseases Bacterial infection of the kidneys (pyelonephritis) Death of cells in the kidneys' small tubes (acute tubular necrosis) caused by, for example, drugs or toxins Prostate disease, kidney stone, or other causes of urinary tract obstruction Reduced blood flow to the kidney due to shock, dehydration, congestive heart failure, atherosclerosis, or complications of diabetes

Shortness of breath in the mornings

My wife has been having shortness of breath in the mornings (mornings only). She has, what I think, excessive heart rate as well. Again, mornings only. Could this be anxiety attacks? I don't think it would be a heart issue. She certainly isn't overweight. SHe is 5.2 " and 100-105 pounds. if she is having anxiety attack... what is the best course of action? She seems to feel better when she lies down and rests.....while either watching TV...or sleeps. WHat is weird about it is ... it only happens in the mornings. SHe has no history in her family for heart disease either. WHat are your thoughts?

shortness of breath

Cause

Many conditions can make you feel short of breath. Lung conditions such as asthma, emphysema or pneumonia cause breathing difficulties. So can problems with your trachea or bronchi, which are part of your airway system. Heart disease can make you feel breathless if your heart cannot pump enough blood to supply oxygen to your body. Stress caused by anxiety can also make it hard for you to breathe. If you often have trouble breathing, it is important to find out the cause.

grievance counseling

My father passed away February 2012. Hospice helped our family with his passing and offered us counseling which at that time our family didn't use. My brother is now interested in counseling services and I'm wondering if I can get some information on this. Thank you.

Grief counseling

Information

Where can I find help? The following list of organizations and Web sites provides information and support for coping with grief:

what is done for people who get air in but cant get it out

can't get air out

Treatment

Many conditions can make you feel short of breath. Lung conditions such as asthma, emphysema or pneumonia cause breathing difficulties. So can problems with your trachea or bronchi, which are part of your airway system. Heart disease can make you feel breathless if your heart cannot pump enough blood to supply oxygen to your body. Stress caused by anxiety can also make it hard for you to breathe. If you often have trouble breathing, it is important to find out the cause.

RUSSEL SILVER SYNDROME

I want to know about RUSSEL SILVER SYNDROME If I ask you my little son nine month old but he look like very little I don't know anything about this symptoms please send me all information.

RUSSEL SILVER SYNDROME

Information

What is Russell-Silver syndrome? Russell-Silver syndrome is a growth disorder characterized by slow growth before and after birth. Babies with this condition have a low birth weight and often fail to grow and gain weight at the expected rate (failure to thrive). Head growth is normal, however, so the head may appear unusually large compared to the rest of the body. Affected children are thin and have poor appetites, and some develop low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) as a result of feeding difficulties. Adults with Russell-Silver syndrome are short; the average height for affected males is about 151 centimeters (4 feet, 11 inches) and the average height for affected females is about 140 centimeters (4 feet, 7 inches). Many children with Russell-Silver syndrome have a small, triangular face with distinctive facial features including a prominent forehead, a narrow chin, a small jaw, and down-turned corners of the mouth. Other features of this disorder can include an unusual curving of the fifth finger (clinodactyly), asymmetric or uneven growth of some parts of the body, and digestive system abnormalities. Russell-Silver syndrome is also associated with an increased risk of delayed development and learning disabilities.

beginning forgetfulness

Are there any suggestions for help or coping with beginning forgetfulness... age 84, healthy female. Looking for something to read about this problem and how to cope. Have not been diagnosed with any disease of the body or brain.

forgetfulness

Treatment

Keeping Your Memory Sharp People with some forgetfulness can use a variety of techniques that may help them stay healthy and maintain their memory and mental skills. Here are some tips that can help: Plan tasks, make "to do" lists, and use memory aids like notes and calendars. Some people find they remember things better if they mentally connect them to other meaningful things, such as a familiar name, song, book, or TV show. Develop interests or hobbies and stay involved in activities that can help both the mind and body. Engage in physical activity and exercise. Several studies have associated exercise (such as walking) with better brain function, although more research is needed to say for sure whether exercise can help to maintain brain function or prevent or delay symptoms of Alzheimer's. Limit alcohol use. Although some studies suggest that moderate alcohol use has health benefits, heavy or binge drinking over time can cause memory loss and permanent brain damage. Find activities, such as exercise or a hobby, to relieve feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression. If these feelings last for a long time, talk with your doctor.

hello, can i have surgery if i have hyperthyroidism

hyperthyroidism

Treatment

What is the treatment of hyperthyroidism? The goal of treatment is to lower the amount of thyroid hormones. Treatment options include Radioactive iodine (RAI). Also called radioiodine, RAI is a common and long-used treatment for hyperthyroidism. Surgery. This removes the thyroid gland (called thyroidectomy). Antithyroid drugs. These medicines are given for months or even years. Sometimes people take them to prepare for RAI or surgery.

What if someone throw up blood just a little got a little light headed and just laid down and went to sleep they said they will sleep it off but I want to take they said I'm fine. What should I do

throw up blood

Treatment

Vomiting blood (hematemesis) refers to significant amounts of blood in your vomit. Small streaks or flecks of blood in material you spit up may come from the teeth, mouth or throat and isn't usually considered vomiting blood. Blood in vomit may be bright red, or it may appear black or dark brown like coffee grounds. Swallowed blood, as from a nosebleed or forceful coughing, may cause bloody vomit, but truly vomiting blood usually represents something more serious and requires immediate medical attention. Bleeding in your upper gastrointestinal tract (mouth, esophagus, stomach and upper small intestine) from peptic ulcers or torn blood vessels is a common cause of vomiting blood. Call 911 or your local emergency number if vomiting blood causes dizziness after standing, rapid, shallow breathing or other signs of shock. Call 911 or emergency medical assistance Call 911 if vomiting blood causes signs and symptoms of shock, such as: Rapid, shallow breathing Dizziness or lightheadedness after standing up Blurred vision Fainting Confusion Nausea Cold, clammy, pale skin Low urine output Seek immediate medical attention Ask someone to drive you to urgent care or the emergency room if you notice blood in your vomit or begin vomiting blood. It's important to quickly identify the underlying cause of the bleeding and prevent more-severe blood loss and other complications, including death.

I have been dealing with an autoimmune disease for almost 4 years now, I've been tested for many things and the doctors can't seem to find what exactly is wrong. It began with pain, swelling and stiffness in my feet and toes.A lot of the pain is joint stiffness and my skin feels like its being burned. Over time it has moved into my knees also. I am always tired. Recently I've been getting pains in my stomache and feeling sick. Does any of this sound like Lupus?? I've tested negative for it before, but the more I read about it I feel that's what i could have. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated.

Lupus

Symptom

Lupus has many symptoms. Some common ones are Joint pain or swelling Muscle pain Fever with no known cause Fatigue Red rashes, often on the face (also called the "butterfly rash")

recovery after stroke?

what is the pattern of recovery after stroke?

stroke

Prognosis

Outlook (Prognosis) How well a person does after a stroke depends on: The type of stroke How much brain tissue is damaged What body functions have been affected How quickly treatment is given Problems moving, thinking, and talking often improve in the weeks to months after a stroke. Many people who have had a stroke will keep improving in the months or years after their stroke. Over half of people who have a stroke are able to function and live at home. Others are not able to care for themselves. If treatment with clot-busting drugs is successful, the symptoms of a stroke may go away. However, patients often do not get to the hospital soon enough to receive these drugs, or they cannot take these drugs because of a health condition. People who have a stroke due to a blood clot (ischemic stroke) have a better chance of surviving than those who have a stroke due to bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). The risk for a second stroke is highest during the weeks or months after the first stroke. The risk begins to decrease after this period.

what to eat

I have very bad diarrhea for last two months. Doctors have not found what causing it. It reserve watery.I need to know what I can eat. And is lactase milk and yogurt is ok are not?

diarrhea

Treatment

How is chronic diarrhea treated? The treatment of chronic diarrhea is determined by its cause. Follow the advice of your health care provider. Diarrhea caused by an infection sometimes can be treated with antibiotics or other drugs. However, the correct diagnosis must be made so that the proper medication can be prescribed. Diarrhea not caused by an infection can be more difficult to diagnose and therefore treat. Long term medical treatment and nutritional support may be necessary. Surgery may be required to treat some causes of chronic diarrhea. For diarrhea whose cause has not been determined, the following guidelines may help relieve symptoms. Follow the advice of your health care provider. Remain well hydrated and avoid dehydration. Serious health problems can occur if the body does not maintain proper fluid levels. Diarrhea may become worse and hospitalization may be required if dehydration occurs. Maintain a well-balanced diet. Doing so may help speed recovery. Avoid beverages that contain caffeine, such as tea, coffee, and many soft drinks. Avoid alcohol; it can lead to dehydration

subjective vertigo

Can macular degeneration in only one eye cause dizziness?

dizziness/macular degeneration

Complication

Unsteadiness Unsteadiness (disequilibrium) or loss of balance when standing or walking are often experienced along with vertigo and other types of dizziness. The causes include: Inner ear problems. These can cause sensations of floating or unsteadiness, especially in the dark. Vision problems. Cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma and weakening eyesight (reduced visual acuity) are risk factors for disequilibrium.

Arrhythmia

can arrhythmia occurs after ablation? What is the success rate of Ablation? During my Holter test it was found that my Heart rate fluctuates from 254 to 21. How do you rate the situation?

arrhythmia

Cause

After the Procedure Pressure to reduce bleeding is put on the area where the catheters were inserted into your body. You will be kept in bed for at least 1 hour, and maybe up to 5 or 6 hours. Your heart rhythm will be monitored during this time. Your doctor will decide whether you can go home on the same day or if you will need to stay in the hospital overnight to continue monitoring your heart. You will need someone to drive you home after your procedure For 2 or 3 days after your procedure, you may have these symptoms: You may feel tired. Your chest may feel achy. You may notice skipped heartbeats, or times when your heartbeat is very fast or irregular. Your doctor may keep you on your medicines, or give you new ones that help control your heart rhythm. Outlook (Prognosis) Success rates are different depending on what type of heart rhythm problem is being treated.

menapause and hotflashes

non-pharmacological ways to relieve symptoms of menapause

symptoms of menopause

Treatment

There are a variety of options available to help treat the symptoms of menopause. The National Institute on Aging provides detailed information on some treatments for menopause. In addition, the Department of Health and Human Service's Office on Women's Health also provides information about menopause treatments. The sections below provide some additional information.

skull fracture

Is it necessary to go to the dr. when getting a skull fracture?

skull fracture

Treatment

First Aid If you think someone has a skull fracture: Check the airways, breathing, and circulation. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and CPR. Avoid moving the person (unless absolutely necessary) until medical help arrives. Have someone to call 911 (or the local emergency number) for medical assistance. If the person must be moved, take care to stabilize the head and neck. Place your hands on both sides of the head and under the shoulders. Do not allow the head to bend forward or backward, or to twist or turn. Carefully check the site of injury, but do not probe in or around the site with a foreign object. It can be hard to know if the skull is fractured or depressed (dented in) at the site of injury. If there is bleeding, apply firm pressure with a clean cloth over a broad area to control blood loss. If blood soaks through, do not remove the original cloth. Instead, apply more cloths on top, and continue to apply pressure. If the person is vomiting, stabilize the head and neck, and carefully turn the victim to the side to prevent choking on vomit. If the person is conscious and experiencing any of the previously listed symptoms, transport to the nearest emergency medical facility (even if the patient does not think medical help is needed). DO NOT Do NOT move the person unless absolutely necessary. Head injuries may be associated with spinal injuries. Do NOT remove protruding objects. Do NOT allow the person to continue with physical activities. Do NOT forget to watch the person closely until medical help arrives. Do NOT give the person any medicines before talking to a doctor. Do NOT leave the person alone, even if there are no obvious problems. When to Contact a Medical Professional There are problems with breathing or circulation. Direct pressure does not stop bleeding from the nose, ears, or wound. There is drainage of clear fluid from the nose or ears. There is facial swelling, bleeding, or bruising. There is an object protruding from the skull. The person is unconscious, is experiencing convulsions, has multiple injuries, appears to be in any distress, or cannot think clearly.

tea tree oil and iodine spray

my 4 year son has molluscum (warts) some one has suggested me to use tea tree oil and iodine spray on the warts.can u please help me.are they effective?

warts

Treatment

Insufficient evidence to rate effectiveness for...Water warts. Early research shows that applying a combination of tea tree oil and iodine for 30 days helps clear up warts in children better than just tea tree oil or iodine alone.

Grand Mal seizures

Need information on: electric stimulation treatment.

Grand Mal seizures

Treatment

What are brain stimulation therapies? Brain stimulation therapies involve activating or touching the brain directly with electricity, magnets, or implants to treat depression and other disorders. Electroconvulsive therapy is the most researched stimulation therapy and has the longest history of use. Other stimulation therapies discussed here — vagus nerve stimulation, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, magnetic seizure therapy, and deep brain stimulation—are newer, more experimental methods.

Kidney failure

What foods do I eat? and if I drink lots of water will that help? Is there a book that I can get to understand this disease?

Kidney failure

Treatment

You may need to make changes to your diet when you have chronic kidney disease. These changes include: Limiting fluids Eating a low-protein diet Limiting salt, potassium, phosphorous, and other electrolytes Getting enough calories if you are losing weight You may need to alter your diet more if your kidney disease gets worse, or if you need dialysis.

more information in relation to Ellis van creveld syndrome

Specifically in later life can they have children has it ever been reported any research carried out and just as much information as possible to help my understanding of what I have Many thanks

Ellis van creveld syndrome

Information

Ellis-van Creveld syndrome Ellis-van Creveld syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects bone growth. Causes Ellis-van Creveld is passed down through families (inherited). It is caused by defects in one of two Ellis-van Creveld syndrome genes (EVC and EVC2) that are positioned next to each other on the same chromosome. The severity of the disease varies from person to person. The highest rate of the condition is seen among the Old Order Amish population of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. It is fairly rare in the general population.

Recovery from Erb's Palsy

For a baby with an Erb's Palsy, What is the recommended age at which the infant can be a subject to nerve conduction test? What is it for surgical treatment? Is their an alternative methodolgy for nerve test other than electrical pulses? Where is this provided in the U.S?

Erb's Palsy

Treatment

Surgery may be considered if some strength has not returned to the affected muscles by the time the baby is 3 - 6 months old.

Skin Itching

At night, I have very bad lower leg skin itching. Is this being caused by any of my prescripions?

Skin Itching

Cause

Summary Itching is skin tingling or irritation that makes you want to scratch the itchy area. It's a symptom of many health conditions. Common causes are Allergic reactions Eczema Dry skin Insect bites and stings Irritating chemicals Parasites such as pinworms, scabies, head and body lice Pregnancy Rashes Reactions to medicines

Treatment, Paralysis

I have one left side leg is paralysis last 24 years, my other parts of the body is well, it is possible my leg will good for treatment, if possible how can i do the treatment and where ? THANKS

Paralysis

Treatment

Treatment for Partial Paralysis Treatment will depend upon the cause of partial paralysis, and might include physical therapy, occupational therapy, surgery, prescription medications, or a combination of the above. Treatment is designed to return as much function as possible to the patient, while also helping him or her learn to cope with any long-term disabilities.

good day. At the age of 50 ive started swelling for about a week now. Its my whole body, especially legs and feet. Im using antistax but not sure if its helping. please advise its so frustrating, i cant get into any clothes.

whole body swelling

Information

Summary Edema means swelling caused by fluid in your body's tissues. It usually occurs in the feet, ankles and legs, but it can involve your entire body. Causes of edema include Eating too much salt Sunburn Heart failure Kidney disease Liver problems from cirrhosis Pregnancy Problems with lymph nodes, especially after mastectomy Some medicines Standing or walking a lot when the weather is warm To keep swelling down, your health care provider may recommend keeping your legs raised when sitting, wearing support stockings, limiting how much salt you eat, or taking a medicine called a diuretic - also called a water pill.

Autosomal recessive primary microcephaly

My son has Autosomal recessive primary microcephaly Do you know of any people that have this?

Autosomal recessive primary microcephaly

Organization

You might also find information on the diagnosis or management of MCPH in Educational resources and Patient support. General information about the diagnosis and management of genetic conditions is available in the Handbook. Read more about genetic testing, particularly the difference between clinical tests and research tests. To locate a healthcare provider, see How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook.

Pain

Sirs, I have a medical problem and I'd be very grateful if you can help. I feel some pain in the posterior area between the hip and the knee (as if there was something that stings). I noticed that the veins are prominent in this area. What can this be? What doctor should I see? Thanks for your cooperation,

pain in the posterior area between the hip and the knee

Organization

Find a Doctor Request an Appointment Contact Us

vdrl positive

vdrl positive patients please tell me what are he doing . Diagnosis and precaution.

vdrl positive

Treatment

Exams and Tests The doctor or nurse will examine you. Tests that may be done include: Examination of fluid from sore Echocardiogram, aortic angiogram, and cardiac catheterization to look at the major blood vessels and the heart Spinal tap and examination of spinal fluid Blood tests to screen for syphillis bacteria (RPR, VDRL, or TRUST) If the RPR, VDRL, or TRUST tests are positive, one of the following tests will be needed to confirm the diagnosis: FTA-ABS (fluorescent treponemal antibody test) MHA-TP TP-EIA TP-PA

MRSA

If you should contact MRSA and take antibiotics over a long period of time,is there a test to determine if the bacteria is still in the system or not?

MRSA

Diagnosis

Occasionally, a person who has been treated for MRSA infection or for MRSA colonization may be screened to determine whether MRSA are still present.

intraductal papilloma

What if you do not have surgery to remove a papilloma?

intraductal papilloma

Prognosis

Your specialist will be able to advise you of the most appropriate treatment or follow up (further checks) if you have an intraductal papilloma. They may feel that no further treatment is needed after either a core or vacuum assisted biopsy. However, they may still want to do another operation (excision biopsy) to remove more breast tissue. In some centres, vacuum assisted excision biopsy may be used as an alternative to surgery. Following an injection of local anaesthetic, a small cut is made in the skin. A hollow probe connected to a vacuum device, is placed through this. Using ultrasound or mammography as a guide, breast tissue is sucked through the probe by the vacuum into a collecting chamber. The biopsy device is used until the area being investigated has been removed. This may mean that an operation under a general anaesthetic can be avoided. The tissue removed is sent to the laboratory and examined under a microscope. If your nipple continues to produce discharge after surgery, or if there’s inflammation around it, you may need to have a further operation to remove the affected duct or ducts. You may be offered a microdochectomy (removal of the affected duct or ducts) or a Hadfield’s operation (removal of all the major ducts). The operation should solve the problem, but if the discharge comes back more ducts may need to be removed, as finding all the ducts can sometimes be difficult. The operation is usually done under a general anaesthetic, and you’ll be in hospital for the day or overnight. You’ll have a small wound near the nipple with a stitch or stitches in it, and your doctors will tell you how to look after this and give you advice about pain relief. The operation will leave a small scar but this will fade in time. After the operation your nipple may be less sensitive than before. After the intraductal papilloma has been removed, follow up is not usually required. However, for some people, a short-term follow up with the specialist may be needed if only a core biopsy/vacuum assisted biopsy has been performed. People with multiple intraductal papillomas and those whose intraductal papillomas contained atypical cells are likely to have follow-up appointments with their specialist for longer.

Excessive Eye Water

Thank for your information on my earlier question regarding what is causing skin itching. I have another question on another problem that I'm having. This problem is excessive eye water (tears) occurring all the time and filling my nose up mostly at night and stops using my nose while in bed after a couple of hours. This there any medicine that would reduce all these excessive tears?

excessive tears

Treatment

Your doctor may order tests to help determine the cause. Treatment depends on the cause of the problem.

I have numbness/tingling in my lower right arm from elbow to my fingers. A EMG has shown nothing abnormal. I have had this for a long time, I need help.

numbness/tingling

Treatment

Home Care Your doctor should find and treat the cause of your numbness or tingling. Treating the condition may make the symptoms go away or stop them from getting worse. For example, if you have carpal tunnel syndrome or low back pain, your doctor may recommend certain exercises. If you have diabetes, your doctor will discuss ways to control your blood sugar levels. Low levels of vitamins will be treated with vitamin supplements. Medications that cause numbness or tingling may need to be switched or changed. Do not change or stop taking any of your medicines or take large doses of any vitamins or supplements until you have talked with your doctor. Because numbness can cause a decrease in feeling, you may be more likely to accidentally injure a numb hand or foot. Take care to protect the area from cuts, bumps, bruises, burns, or other injuries.

treatment required

we need treatment for balance disorder. my father losses his balance while walking or climbing steps so please so please help us in curing the disorder.

balance disorder

Treatment

How are balance disorders treated? The first thing a doctor will do if you have a balance problem is determine if another health condition or a medication is to blame. If so, your doctor will treat the condition, suggest a different medication, or refer you to a specialist if the condition is outside his or her expertise. If you have BPPV, your doctor might recommend a series of simple movements, such as the Epley maneuver, which can help dislodge the otoconia from the semicircular canal. In many cases, one session works; other people need the procedure several times to relieve their dizziness. Figure 1: The ear and the vestibular system Dislodging otoconia using the Epley maneuver Credit: NIDCD If you are diagnosed with Ménière's disease, your doctor may recommend that you make some changes to your diet and, if you are a smoker, that you stop smoking. Anti-vertigo or anti-nausea medications may relieve your symptoms, but they can also make you drowsy. Other medications, such as gentamicin (an antibiotic) or corticosteroids may be used. Although gentamicin may reduce dizziness better than corticosteroids, it occasionally causes permanent hearing loss. In some severe cases of Ménière's disease, surgery on the vestibular organs may be needed. Some people with a balance disorder may not be able to fully relieve their dizziness and will need to find ways to cope with it. A vestibular rehabilitation therapist can help you develop an individualized treatment plan. Talk to your doctor about whether it’s safe to drive, as well as ways to lower your risk of falling and getting hurt during daily activities, such as when you walk up or down stairs, use the bathroom, or exercise. To reduce your risk of injury from dizziness, avoid walking in the dark. You should also wear low-heeled shoes or walking shoes outdoors. If necessary, use a cane or walker and modify conditions at your home and workplace, such as by adding handrails.