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Welcome to Dr. Donnica's Frequently Asked Questions Center. Here you'll find a complete list of all FAQ's. If you have a question or concern, it's very likely that you're not alone. Check out the list below for answers to a variety of important health questions, or search for a specific topic.

"Throwing" Your Back Out
Every so often, sometimes for no reason at all, I throw my back out and can't even walk for a few days. My doctor tells me to rest and take ibuprofen. Is that my only option?
A Variety of Bladder Problems
I am a 34-year-old woman with a bladder problem. I have a pain in my right side that never stops. I go to the bathroom about 7 times at night and experience a lot of pain when having sex. Please help!
Abdominal Cramps and Diarrhea (IBS)
I've been suffering from bouts of abdominal cramps and diarrhea for as long as I can remember, but recently my symptoms have gotten much worse. Now it seems as though every time I have the urge to go I can barely make it to the toilet in time, and I'm almost afraid to leave the house for fear of being too far from the bathroom.
Abdominal Hernia
Last month I strained by lower back and abdomen while moving a heavy box, and the pain and tenderness around my navel haven't gone away since. My husband thinks it's a hernia, but isn't that a male health problem?
Abdominal Muscle Separation
I recently had someone tell me that they saw a special on TV that said sometimes abdominal muscles can separate, and not heal. How do I find out more about this? How do I find out if this is what's happened to me?
Abdominal Pain (Lower Right Side)
Pain of any kind, especially when it’s recurring, is not normal and should never be set on the back burner.
Absence of Menses While on the Pill
I'm 35 years old, and have been taking birth control pills since I was about 16. I haven't had a period for about 3 months now, and I'm concerned. My gynecologist just laughed at me and told me this is very common, and not to worry. Should I be concerned?
Achilles Tendonitis from Wearing High Heels
High heels are my favorite fashion accessory but after we got our first snowstorm last week I had to switch to flats for safety’s sake. Now my feet are killing me! I keep getting these sharp pains that shoot up the backs of my heels. Why does it hurt when I wear my sensible shoes and boots?
Achilles Tendonitise
A few weeks ago I started walking before work. It was going pretty well, until the back of my ankle just above my right heel started hurting. I already gave up walking, but it still hurts. What should I do
Acne Scars
As a teenager I suffered from severe acne, and while I haven't had a breakout in years, I still have quite a few scars along my cheeks and forehead. They make me just as self-conscious as the actual acne. I know it's holding me back from being more outgoing with coworkers and friends. Is there help for me?
Acrochordons, Also Known as Skin Tags
Skin tags, or acrochordons, are common, harmless skin overgrowths that may develop on the face, neck, armpits, and groin.
Acupuncture and Morning Sickness
Dr. Donnica discusses the effectiveness of acupuncture to treat nausea, vomiting, and morning sickness in a question and answer format.
Adult ADD
In adults, ADD symptoms are similar to those seen in children: inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.
Alcohol And Breastfeeding
Do you know of any research on the impact of alcohol consumption on a breastfed baby? I am wondering if light consumption (1/2 glass of wine 2-3 times per week) is okay. I did drink small amounts infrequently when breastfeeding my first two children but am feeling guilty about it this time.
Alternative Medicine
In general, when we talk about alternative medicine, we’re talking about medicines, foods or modalities that do not meet the research-based standards of what we call
Alternatives to Laxatives for Hemorrhoids
I suffer from painful hemorrhoids and I’ve been using laxatives for about six months to prevent straining during bowel movements. Trouble is, now I think I might be addicted to them. Whenever I stop taking the laxatives I get extremely constipated. Is there any way to break free of these pills and stay regular?
Alternatives to Surgery for Reducing Breast Size
Are there any alternatives to surgery for women seeking breast reductions? Can a woman reduce her breast size by one or at least a half cup size through any changes in diet or intensive exercise?
Androgen Excess
Last year I noticed hair beginning to grow on my face and out of my nose. As if that's not bad enough, I'm also showing signs of balding!
Antidepressants and Breastfeeding
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses the use of antidepressants while breastfeeding in a question and answer format.
Antidepressants and Conception
My doctor put me on Prozac for depression over a year ago. Now we want to have a baby. I have not been able to conceive and have been trying for four months. Could it be the Prozac?
Antidepressants: Side Effects and Alternatives
I've been taking medication for the past three years to help with my depression, and I've gained a lot of weight because of it. I really want to do something natural instead so I don't have to take the pills anymore. What can I do?
Anxiety and Driving
Anxiety disorders are very common in women. There are five kinds: social phobias, specific phobias, generalized anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Arm Numbness and Tingling During Exercise
When I exercise for more than 20 minutes, my left arm seems to feel like it is falling asleep. Is this something I should be concerned about?
Arthritis and Acupuncture
I've heard a lot about acupuncture lately--can it help with arthritis pain?
Aspirin and Asthma
I’m asthmatic, and whenever I take aspirin to relieve a headache or muscle pain, I wind up congested and sometimes even gasping for air. Why is aspirin triggering my asthma attacks, and is there anything else I can safely take for pain?
Atopic Dermatitis
I’ve developed these itchy red patches above my eyebrows. The skin looks dry and scaly, but it actually feels a little greasy, and it’s impossible to cover up with makeup. Is there any way to clear it up fast?
Avoiding Long-term Medication Side Effects
I feel like I've taken every medicine there is for arthritis, but I'm worried about the long-term side effects. What can I do to prevent them?
Bacterial Vaginosis Testing
Should pregnant women be tested for bacterial vaginosis?
Bad Body Odor
When people talk about
Beating the Genetics of Diabetes
I have a strong family history of type II diabetes and I feel like I'm doomed to repeat it. I am 35 years old. Is there anything I can do to change my destiny?
Bed Bugs
During a recent business trip, I stayed in a swanky hotel and I seem to have had some sort of allergic reaction to something in the room. I’ve been home for a week now and what started as a rash on my stomach that looked like a line of small red welts has grown into a half-dozen ugly patches that itch like crazy! What’s going on?
Birth Control Pills & Cancer Risk
Is it true that birth control pills actually decrease your risk of cancer?
Black Hairy Tongue
Frequent use of bacteria-killing mouthwashes can disrupt the natural balance of mouth flora, causing fungi or chromogenic (color-changing) bacteria to collect and form a dark coating.
Blepharitis
blepharitis, which is a common inflammatory malady of the eyelids that interferes with tear-producing glands and irritates surrounding skin.
Blisters in the Nose
I get painful blisters on the inside of my nose that can last up to three weeks. What’s causing this, and how can I get rid of them for good?
Bloating
Why do I get so bloated before I have my period? What can I do to prevent it?
Boils
I have been getting boils for about 5 years. I have read that recurrent boils are a symptom of diabetes. Is this true?
Bone Density Tests and Differing Results
With bone density, a lot can change in 2 years.
Breast Cancer And Antiperspirant Use
I thought I read somewhere that there may be a link between antiperspirants and some illnesses-- maybe cancer. Does this ring any bells with you or is it one of those
Breast Cancer Detection
Is mammography the only way to detect breast cancer?
Breast Cancer Genetic Test
What is the blood test for breast cancer?
Breast Cancer Treatment
How is breast cancer treated?
Breast Cysts
I have a history of cysts forming in my breasts due to hormonal changes. I know that cysts are sacs of fluid and are movable to the touch, but can a malignant lump move the same way?
Breast Discharge
I noticed a milky white, sticky discharge coming from my breasts, is this normal?
Breast Enlargement Without Surgery?
I am interested in a breast enlargement without an operation. Is it possible?
Breastfeeding With Inverted Nipples
I'm pregnant with my first child and after doing some research I've decided that breastfeeding is what's best for my baby. But there's a problem: I have inverted nipples. My doctor says that breastfeeding is still possible -- is there anything I can do to improve my odds?
Bumps On The Cervix
I have recently noticed several bumps on my cervix. I was told that it is normal to have bumps on your cervix and that the cervix is not smooth like we believe it is. Is this true or do I need to be concerned?
Burning Mouth Syndrome
It affects seven times more women than men and is more likely in postmenopausal women.
Cancer
What is cancer? Normal cells grow and divide in an orderly way. Cancer cells do not.
Cancer And Five-year Survival Rates
What does the
Canker Sores
For six months I've been having a problem with recurring mouth ulcers. Every two to three weeks, small sores pop up on my lips and inside my mouth on my cheeks and gums. They're not pretty, but even worse, they hurt and sometimes it's hard to eat. How can I make them go away?
Carbonated Water and Calcium
A friend told me that drinking carbonated water robs the bones of calcium. Is this true? If so, does soda do the same?
Carnie Wilson's Surgery and Treatment for Obesity
I am interested in more information about the surgery that Carnie Wilson had for weight loss. Can you tell me how to find a doctor in my area?
Carotenemia
Recently I noticed that the palms of both my hands have turned a yellowish-orange color, like the color you’d get from a self-tanner. The only problem is I’m not self-tanning.
Cell Phones And Cancer Risk
Is there any truth to the rumor that cell phones can increase your risk of cancer?
Cervical Cancer
What is cervical cancer?
Change in PMS Symptoms
Since puberty, I've had very predictable PMS symptoms -- a headache on the same day every month. I'd take a few Advil and the pain was gone. But now at age 32, my PMS profile has suddenly changed: no more headaches. Now I get painfully sore breasts and Advil doesn't help. Why the change, and how should I treat the pain?
Changing Your Menstrual Cycle
I have a major event coming up and it coincides with my period. Isn't there a way I can change my cycle by changing the day I start taking my birth control pills?
Checking Out Freckles and Moles
I've had freckles and moles all my life. How do I know if any of them are the kind I need to be concerned about?
Cherry Angiomas
Over the past few months I've noticed several bright red blister-like growths popping up on my chest and midsection. They don't hurt or itch, but I'm still a little anxious. Is it just a rash, or could these bumps be a sign of something serious?
Chlamydia Screening
Who should be screened for chlamydia?
Chlorine and Hair Loss
I suspect my sudden hair loss is due to not taking proper care of my hair after swimming, but I'm not sure. If this is true and chlorine is the culprit, will my hair ever grow back?
Choosing a Gynecologist
I'm trying to choose a new gynecologist--is there anything specific I should ask before I become a patient?
Chronic Diarrhea After Gallbladder Surgery
Six months ago I had my gallbladder removed and ever since then everything I eat goes right through me. Sometimes it travels so fast I can't make it to the bathroom in time! As if that isn't embarrassing enough, I also have uncontrollable flatulence. What do you suggest?
Chronic Pancreatitis
Two weeks ago I began experiencing nausea, fever and severe pain in my upper abdomen, plus I was so bloated that I looked five months pregnant. I finally went to the hospital where I was diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis. The doctor recommended an OTC painkiller, but it does nothing to ease the bloat. Is there anything else I can do to feel better?
Chronic Wounds
About a month ago, I cut my finger while chopping veggies and wound up with a few stitches. My doctor removed them a week later, but since then the cut has reopened and doesn't seem to want to heal. I've kept it clean with saline and water and covered it with surgical tape, but it looks worse than ever.
Clicking Joints
The other day I noticed that my right ankle kept clicking every time I took a step. This has happened before and it just went away, and even though it doesn’t hurt, I’m worried it could be a sign of a serious joint problem like arthritis. Am I overreacting?
Clinical Trials
If you would like to be in a clinical trial, the best place to start is usually to discuss it with your own physician.
Cold and Flu Differences
What's the difference between the cold and flu?
Cold and Flu Treatment
Can antibiotics treat colds or the flu?
Cold Sores
I've suffered from the occasional canker sore for as long as I can remember. But a few months ago one popped up, and just as soon as it went away another one appeared. Now it seems like I can't go for more than a few days without an ugly sore forming on my lip. It's getting so I'm embarrassed to show my face. What should I do?
Colon Cancer Risk Reduction
There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of colon cancer. Dr. Donnica explains risks and prevention of colon cancer.
Colon Cancer Screening
Colon cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in Americans though it is often a preventable or curable disease when discovered early.
Colon Cancer Symptons
As with most cancers, the signs and symptoms of colon cancer can also be “normal” abnormalities or signs and syptoms of many other diseases and conditions.
Connection Between Hormone Replacement Therapy and Asthma
Is there a connection between hormone replacement therapy and asthma?
Constipation
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses constipation, its symptoms, and its association with some medications and diseases.
Constipation from Calcium Supplements
I'm 50 years old and perimenopausal, so my doctor suggested taking a daily OTC calcium and magnesium supplement to help protect my bones from osteoporosis. I've been following his advice for a few months, but now I'm constantly and painfully constipated. How can I help my bones without this annoying side effect?
Cost of Chlamydia
Does screening for chlamydia save money?
Counting The Days Of Pregnancy
Is the 40 weeks of pregnancy measured from date of conception, or date of last period?
Dark Circles Under the Eyes
There are many causes of dark circles under your eyes. The good news is that while they are cosmetically undesirable, they are generally medically harmless and don't necessarily indicate any serious medical problems.
Dealing with Loss and PMDD
I have secretly suffered for many many years, always on the defensive, blaming everyone else for upsetting me. I am usually a very gentle, caring, quiet person until literally the day before my period.
Dealing with PMDD
How Can We Handle Premenstrual Dysphoric Dysfunction (PMDD)?
Decreased Libido After the Baby Arrives
Ever since my one-year-old was born, I'm basically never in the mood. My husband thinks my birth control pills could be the culprit. Is that possible?
Depression Help
I am really confused because I don’t know if I have a depression disorder or if I have PMDD. There is so much going on in my life and I just don’t know how to analyze anything.
Dietary Changes That Can Affect Blood Pressure
Are there any dietary changes that can affect blood pressure?
Dieting and Hair Loss
I've been on a diet for about six months, and the good news is I've lost 15 pounds. But the bad news is I'm also losing my hair! Could I be missing some nutrient that's making me go bald, and can I ever get my hair back?
Discontinuing Premarin
I have been taking Premarin for over two years (after having a hysterectomy). Two days ago, I decided to quit taking the medication after reading the recent reports. Is it safe to quit Premarin
Dizziness and Vertigo
Dizziness is fairly common and has many possible causes. It may be called lightheadedness, feeling faint, being unsteady, losing balance, or feeling that you or the space around you is spinning (vertigo).
Down Syndrome
What is Down Syndrome? How important is it for me to be screened for it when I’m pregnant?
Driving & Posture
Of course, a gentle massage at the end of your day may help as well!
Dry Eyes and Computer Vision Syndrome
I know it’s possible to get addicted, and I think that’s what’s happened.
Ear Feeling Clogged and Jaw Pain
For the past couple of months, my right ear has been feeling clogged. I keep thinking that if I could just pop it, I’d get some relief. I’ll try to yawn and open my mouth as wide as I can, but it doesn’t help and actually makes the whole right side of my jaw feel sore. My doctor says I don’t have an ear infection, so what could it be?
Early Perimenopause
While the average age of menopause in American women is 51, many women enter menopause much earlier.
Early Waking
Every morning I wake up at 5:30; a full hour before my alarm actually goes off. I’m not ready to get out of bed yet, but it seems like no matter how tired I am, I can’t fall back asleep.
Eating Disorders, Depression, and Suicidal Thoughts
I'm 21 years old and have had multiple eating disorders throughout my life. I've been
Educating Ourselves About Health Issues
Dr. Donnica Moore answers a question about women educating themselves when it comes to their own health care.
Emergency Pregnancy Prevention
Emergency contraception means taking certain birth control pills within 72 hours after unprotected sex. Ideally, you should take the first dose as soon as possible.
Empty Nest Syndrome
When I moved out of my parents' house last year, I left an empty nest. Since then, I've noticed on my visits home that my mother is getting thinner and thinner. She insists it's just my imagination, but Dad told me that she has started a new early-morning exercise routine and her appetite isn't what it used to be. Is it possible that my 48-year-old mother could have anorexia?
Endometrial Polyps
I am looking for information on endometrial polyps and whether these were something that can be passed during monthly cycles and if so, what might they look like?
Endometrial Polyps, the Pill & Menopause
I was just diagnosed with an endometrial polyp and am having surgery for its removal. Am I at risk for a recurrence of these polyps?
Endometriosis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Dr. Donnica Moore discusses endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome, their similarities and symptoms.
Enhancing Fertility
Is there anything I can do to enhance my fertility?
Enlarged Aorta
Aortic enlargements can be hereditary or caused by injury, infection or a congenital weakness in the connective tissue of the artery wall.
Estrogen & Breast Cancer
What is the relationship between estrogen and breast cancer?
Estrogen & Endometrial Cancer
What is the relationship between estrogen and endometrial cancer?
Estrogen And Citrus
Recently, I heard you comment on the radio about taking estrogen (Premarin) with citrus juice. Please tell me the point of those comments.
Excessive Yawning
I have a question which might sound silly. I don't want to go to the doctor about it because it sounds ridiculous. Have you ever known of anyone yawning excessively? Is this something I should be concerned about or not?
Exercise and Urinary Incontinence
After having my second child, I decided it was time to do something about the 30 pounds of baby fat I'm still toting around. So I signed up for step aerobics classes at the local gym, but after just two classes I had to stop. Both times, jumping up and down off of the step caused urinary leakage!
External Otitis (Swimmer's Ear)
Last week was my family’s annual trip to the beach, and for the first few days after we got back, my right ear felt really clogged and sounds were sort of muffled.I figured I just had water in my ear and it would drain on its own. But then the inside started itching, and now it really hurts, plus my hearing seems to be getting worse. What’s going on?
Extreme Scalp Odor
I've had a problem with extreme scalp odor for years. At first, I blamed it on the chemicals in my hair products but expensive and all-natural specialty products haven't helped a bit. Even prescription anti-fungal shampoos have zero affect. Now it's so noticeable that I'm too embarrassed to leave my house. What else can I do?
Eyelash Loss
My upper eyelashes have been falling out a lot lately, and then growing back uneven and sparse. It's mostly in the middle of my eyelid, right where it's most noticeable, and no amount of mascara or curling makes my lashes look any better. My eye doctor is stumped, and I'm worried I'll wind up without any lashes at all. Is there anything I can do?
Female Pattern Baldness
I’ve always had a thick, shiny head of hair, but recently I’ve noticed clumps of it coming out when I brush. I usually blow-dry in the morning, but I don’t use dyes or any harsh chemicals. It’s hard to believe that hot air could be causing this much damage. Could it be something more serious?
Fertility
The most important way to enhance your fertility is to identify which days are your most fertile, and then to be certain to have intercourse on those days.
Fertility Monitor
I heard about a new method for enhancing fertility called
Fibrocystic Breasts, Caffeine and Estrogen
I had read that fibrocystic breasts can be caused by consuming caffeine, but my doctor didn’t tell me to stop. Should I? Can fibrocystic masses turn into cancer?
Fibroids
While the vast majority of women with fibroids have no symptoms, fibroids can be responsible for a variety of symptoms with a broad range in severity.
First Aid Kit
If you purchase a commercially available first aid kit, open it after purchase and see what’s really in there; you may need to add certain items.
First Gynecological Exam
What's the rule for taking my teenage daughter for her first visit to the gynecologist? Should I wait until she has a problem, is age 18, or is sexually active?
Flu Treatment
We used to say that there weren’t any prescription drugs to treat flu, because all we had at our disposal were antibacterial antibiotics. Now there are 4 different anti-viral drugs available.
Flu Vaccine
Vaccines can prevent infection in 7 to 9 out of 10 healthy people less than 65 years old and in one out of 3 nursing home residents. Yet only about one in 3 people under 65 and two out of 3 people over age 65 currently get vaccinated.
Fly-In Surgery
Dr. Donnica Moore weighs the pros and cons of flying to another city for heart bypass surgery.
Flying Early in Pregnancy
I just found out I am 5 weeks pregnant, however I have booked a holiday in two weeks time and I'm concerned about the radiation and its effect on the embryo.
Folic Acid
I am trying to get pregnant. How much folic acid should I take?
Folic Acid for Men
Should men take folic acid supplements too?
Frequent Dizzy Spells
Recently I've been experiencing pretty frequent dizzy spells, sometimes as often as once a day. They hit just after I stand up from a chair, and usually it's after a full day of running errands and feeling fine. I don't understand: I eat well and exercise regularly. What could be wrong?
Frequent Urination
My husband always teases me for having “tiny bladder syndrome,” and I’ll admit I go to the bathroom more than most people. But it hasn’t been a real problem until recently. Now I can’t even sit through an entire movie without making at least one trip to the ladies’ room! Whenever I go out, I’m constantly keeping an eye out for the nearest toilet just in case. What’s wrong with me?
Gaining Weight While on the Pill
I have been on the pill for 3 months to treat ovarian cysts, and I've since gained seven pounds. I don't want to take any diuretics because I hear they can deplete potassium. Is there anything I can do to safely get rid of my water weight?
Ganglion Cyst
Several months ago I noticed a lump on the joint between my ankle and the top of my foot that's about the size of a quarter and jelly-like in consistency. It's painless and doesn't seem to be growing, but I'm scared it's a tumor or something really serious. Can you help?
Ganglion Cyst II
Ganglion cysts are also known as “Bible cysts” because people used to try “treating them” by smashing a large book (like a Bible) on top of them. Do not do this!
Gastroparesis
Do you have any information on Gastroparesis? My wife is suffering through this since she had her thyroid oblated with radioactive iodine 2 months ago.
Geophagy And Pica
I love the smell of dirt, and sometimes I even want to eat it. Is my body lacking minerals or something?
Getting Help and Helping Others with Eating Disorders
I am a recovered anorexic and I would like to know if there is any way that I can get involved with helping other girls through this struggle.
Getting Help for Early Menopause and Depression
I am entering menopause quite early as my mother did, at 38 years old. There are extreme hormonal changes going on with me. My doctor has put me on the pill but I am still emotionally out of control and nearly suicidal at times. Can you give me any help at all?
Getting Help for PMDD
You do not need a hysterectomy or hormones to treat PMDD.
Getting Help for Severe PMDD
I just read your article on PMS and PMDD, and I am very concerned. You make it sound so simple to get help, when in reality it is very difficult. There is no help. No one understands! Please help me! Don't offer medicine. I don't have time or the money to go through trial and error until I find one that doesn't make me sick. What are my options?
Give Up the Pill Before the Honeymoon?
Would there be any short-term side effects if my fiancée stopped taking her birth control pills? We are getting married in 11 days. Should she wait until after the wedding to stop taking them?
Graves' Disease
What is Graves' disease?
Graves' Disease Resources
Where can I find a physician in my area who specializes in Graves' Disease?
Grayish Areas That Cannot Be Cleaned
The appearance may range from a thickened, velvety brown streaking to a leathery lesion, most often on the neck or in skin folds under the arm or breasts, around the belt line or in the groin, but it may develop elsewhere.
Hammer Toes
A few months ago I noticed that my left middle toe started looking bent and now it's starting to cause me quite a bit of pain. Because it's so buckled, it's hard to put on shoes without them rubbing against my toe and causing even more discomfort. What's going on and what can I do?
Having Breasts of Different Sizes
I'm 42 and over the past 10 years or so, my right breast has slowly grown larger than my left breast. What causes the difference in breast size?
Headache and Dizziness After Miscarriage
I had a miscarriage 2 weeks ago. Ever since then sometime throughout the day I get a headache with a dizzy feeling. Is this something I should be concerned about or is my body just going through changes because of the miscarriage?
Headache Prevention
Since stress is high on the list of headache causes and migraine triggers, stress management techniques are high on the list of headache prevention strategies. These include massage, meditation, biofeedback, and having a positive attitude.
Health on the Web
There are a lot of websites out there that provide health information. How do I know if they’re reliable and what can I do to protect myself against false information?
Healthy Weight Gain
The only articles I ever see in magazines regarding weight is how to lose. How can I put weight on?!! I'm 5'6' and weigh 118lbs. I know that is acceptable, but I look very thin. Is there a healthy way to put pounds on while maintaining a healthy diet???
Heart Attack Prevention
Can Heart Attacks be Prevented?
Heavy Periods and Fibroids
I've given birth to two healthy children, my first when I was 23 and the second at age 31. I hemorrhaged after both deliveries. My doctor blamed it on a fibroid and told me I have nothing to worry about. But for the past year, my periods have been extremely heavy and sometimes they contain several clots. Could this be due to the fibroids?
Help Finding Free Breast Health Services
I have a friend who told me that she will not get a mammogram because she has no insurance. I worry about her because she told me that she felt a lump on her one breast. I told her that she needs to get a mammogram. I know every once in awhile there are free screenings. Can you tell me where I can direct her?
Help for Chronically Chapped, Peeling Lips
For nearly a year, my lips have been painfully chapped and cracked, and the corners are so dry that the skin is peeling and revealing raw, tender skin. I feel totally dependent on chapstick. Is there anything else I can do?
Help for Panic Attacks
Isn't there any way to deal with anxiety without the drugs and their annoying side effects?
Help for Those in Need of Extensive Weight Loss
I am 33 years old. I have developed a heart condition from taking fen-phen, but still need to lose weight. I am looking for some type of teaching center that would perform the lap-band surgery on me. I need to lose weight so bad, but cannot take any more diet pills.
High Blood Pressure
Studies show sitting in a chair with feet on the floor and arm held at heart-level gives a more accurate reading than sitting on an exam table with feet dangling.
High Blood Pressure
My doctor told me I have high blood pressure. Is there anything I can do to lower it?
High Blood Pressure and Aspirin for Heart Attacks
Recently I had my blood pressure checked at one of those mall kiosks and the nurse told me it was high, which increases my risk of heart attack. Since then I keep hearing about the benefits of taking an aspirin every day to prevent heart attacks, but I'm allergic to aspirin! I'm really nervous, especially because heart disease runs in my family. Is there something else I can take to protect my heart?
High Cholesterol
In adults, cholesterol is classified by levels. Your doctor must interpret your cholesterol numbers based on other risk factors.
High Frequency Hearing Loss
Last spring, I went to bed one night with perfectly good hearing, and woke up the next morning with a loud annoying buzz in my ears. My doctor conducted a hearing test and told me I have high frequency hearing loss. Can that really happen overnight, and is there anything I can do to stop it?
Hot Flashes
Hot flashes are the most common menopausal symptom reported by American women. Learn more about recognizing and preventing premenopausal hot flashes.
Hot Flashes and Calorie Burning
I am beginning to experience night sweats and hot flashes, nothing too terrible, though annoying for sure. I just wondered if, with all the heat my body is generating, there might be any calorie burn associated with thehot flashes.
How Do I Know if I Have PMDD?
I've heard that there is a severe form of PMS (premenstrual syndrome) called PMDD (premenstrual dysphoric disorder) and I think I might have it. How do I know for sure?
How Your Body Changes When You Stop Taking the Pill
I stopped taking the oral birth control pill. Should I be having any side affects from going off the pill?
HRT And The Risk Of Breast Cancer
I heard that the National Institutes of Health just cancelled a huge study on hormone replacement therapy because it increased the risk of breast cancer. Is this true?
HRT Duration
How many years should a woman be on HRT?
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
I've been recently diagnosed with cervical dysplasia and was told after asking, that I have HPV. My son's FORMER girlfriend has the same diagnosis. Do my husband and son need to be tested? My son is concerned about infecting a future partner? We are confused!
Hydradenitus Supperativa
What is Hydradenitus Supperativa?
Hyperhydrosis
For the last six months or so I've been experiencing excessive sweating in my feet (hyperhydrosis, or so they tell me!). One doctor told me it's due to an overactive sympathetic nervous system. Is there anything I can do to regulate that?
Hypothyroidism & PMDD
I am 28. About 8 months ago I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism. This week I was diagnosed with PMDD as well. Please help me to understand the likelihood of suffering both disorders, or tell me if a second opinion is warranted.
Implants and Breast Feeding
Can women breastfeed if they have breast implants?
Implants and Mammograms
While breast implants are not causally associated with an increased risk of breast cancer per se, they are known to interfere with mammogram screening.
Improving Women’s Health
Dr. Donnica Moore explains what a woman can do to improve her health in a question and answer format.
Increasing Flatulence
Age-related changes in the large intestine, along with increased use of medications and reduced physical activity, tend to slow the transit of stool through the large intestine causing an increased incidence of flatulence (gassiness) as well as constipation.
Induced Labor?
I found your web site because I was looking for some pregnancy info. I am due Friday, and have no signs of labor. My OB told me I will probably have to be induced. Can I wait a few more weeks?
Inexplicable Hangovers
Enjoy the hors d’oevres, too, because alcohol’s more apt to cause more problems on an empty stomach.
Infertility And The Clear Plan Easy Fertility Monitor
If an individual already knows for sure their day of ovulation, is it worth it to buy the clear plan monitor? Does the day of ovulation change?
Insurance for Mammogram
Are insurance companies required to reimburse for mammograms?
Interstitial Cystitis
What is interstitial cystitis?
Interstitial Cystitis