Q Can kissing catch thrush from a female partner?

Yes. You can catch oral thrush by kissing from a female partner. The fungus causing the disease is present in the oral cavity of the patient and can easily spread to other during kissing.

Q When is herpes contagious? I have not had an outbreak of genital herpes in years but i do take valtrex if i feel an outbreak may be coming on. If i take valtrex as needed and i do not have an outbreak, am i still contagious?

Genital herpes is the most contagious when the lesions are active and a few days before that. However, an infected person can potentially be shedding the virus all his life. Since, the virus is spread by direct skin to skin contact, it is very easy to spread it through intercourse or oral sex. Thus, protect your partner by always using a condom.

Q What is the true cause of trichotillomania aslo known as severe obsessive compulsive hair pulling?

The cause of trichotillomania is unclear. But like many complex disorders, trichotillomania probably results from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Also, abnormalities in the natural brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine may play a role in trichotillomania. While the underlying biology is not clearly understood at this time, we do know that people with trichotillomania generally have a neurologically based predisposition to pull their hair as a self-soothing mechanism. The pulling behavior serves as a coping mechanism for anxiety and other difficult emotions. It does not hurt and they are not trying to damage themselves. While the average age of onset is 11, trich can be found in children as young as one year old. Onset of trich can be triggered by simple sensory events, such as itchy eyelashes, or by stressful life events, and it can occur quite suddenly. For example, it may be a tingling feeling that can only be relieved by pulling. ny relief that comes with hair pulling usually only lasts for a moment. The urge almost always returns. Thats because when the mind becomes used to giving in to the powerful urges that go with compulsive behaviors, the behavior is reinforced, and then becomes a habit. The mind gets trapped in a cycle of expecting to have the urge satisfied. The longer this goes on, the harder it can become to resist the urge.

Q What is an ECG?

An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a record of the electrical activity of the heart. It is recorded by means of an instrument known as the electrocardiograph. It is recorded in the form of waves on a graphic thermal paper. Interpretations are done to diagnose various heart conditions with the help of ECG.

Q Diagnosis of high cholesterol

The diagnosis of high cholesterol levels is based on a simple blood test. Usually a complete Lipid profile is advised to test the levels of different components of cholesterol and triglycerides. Total cholesterol levels should be less than 200 mg/dl. LDL levels less than 100 mg/dL ( 2.6 mmol/L) are considered optimal. An acceptable HDL range is between 40- 60 mg/dL (1.04-1.56 mmol/L). Triglyceride levels should be maintained less than 150 mg/dl. High levels of HDL have a protective effect against heart disease whereas high levels of LDL and triglycerides increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Q Will doing swimming during winter days harm kids? and what about clorinated water exposure?

During winter, due to cold environment, children may get flu, cold and cough etc. Children are more sensitive and their immunity is also weak as compared to adults. So, it is advised not to go for swimming during winter. And remember, some children are allergic to chlorinated water. You must keep an eye on your childs health, to identify any symptoms if they do appear.

Q What types of tests are used to evaluate patients with pelvic and abdominal pain?

To find out the cause of pelvic and abdominal pain your doctor will do physical examination to determine the location of the pain. Based upon that your doctor may order investigation. Investigations will include blood tests and imaging studies like x-ray, CT scan, MRI scan, ultrasound study. In female a pap smear may be ordered.rnrn 

Q Can local honey cure seasonal allergies?

Honey contains powerful antioxidants, antiseptic and antibacterial propertise. It is said to cure some allergies particularly localised honey to that area can cure seasonal allergy as the bees feed on pollens of that area which finally form honey. At the same time there are studies showing that its effect is nothing more than a placebo.

Q How can I enlarge my breast

Regular exercise is the only natural option to get your breast size increased. Push ups and pectoral muscle exercise may help you to gain the breast muscles. Plunge bras, water bras, and push-up bras can be used and these usually add a cup size to what you already have. Silicone pads can be bought to be put inside a bra as well. Breast implant surgery is one option to help you in this regard.

Q is epilepsy treatable?

Rather to say curable, epilepsy is very well treatable with medication (anti-epileptic drugs). Epilepsy is the disorder of the brain and central nervous system where abnormal electrical impulse leads to uncontrolled, involuntary movement of the body. The balance between the factors that begin electrical activity and factors that restrict it is lost, resulting in the body jerking. Several reasons are cited for the cause of the disease like neurocysticercosis (worms from intestine reach brain), tuberculosis of brain, brain tumour, brain stroke and even genetic. In most of the cases, the cause of the fits remains unknown. Neurologist would be able to select the best medication depending on the type of epilepsy and also age and sex of patient. The medicines are required to be taken for long-term without any discontinuation. Avoid driving, swimming and hazardous activities, as occurrence of seizures during these activities can be dangerous. With all above simple management you can live normal life with Epilepsy.