Your risk of dying from breast cancer is slightly reduced if you have regular screening. However, regular screening increases your chance of a false positive result, a biopsy and having part or all of a breast removed unnecessarily.

The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care recommends women between 50 and 74 years old who are not at high risk get screened for breast cancer every 2 to 3 years. Talk to your doctor about screening options if you are at high risk or over 74 years old.

This resource includes frequently asked questions about breast cancer, including: Who is considered high risk? What are the harms associated with mammography? and Why is routine screening NOT recommended for women 40-49 years?

If you have allergic rhinitis, there are medications you can purchase as tablets, nose drops or sprays. These include: antihistamines, steroids, leukotriene receptor antagonists, chromones, and decongestants. Research shows these are all effective treatments.

Educational videos, exercise, and neck mobilization were more beneficial for treating neck pain or whip lash than ultrasound or electrical stimulation. Laser therapy, exercise and massage or acupuncture may help with chronic pain. Hard or soft collars did not work.

Some alternative herbal medicines may help to relieve back pain. Devil's Claw, Willow Bark and cayenne may help reduce pain in the short term. However, there is no evidence that these substances are safe or useful in the long-term.

There are many arthritis treatment options such as rest, weight loss, physical therapy, assistive devices, heat and cold therapies, medications or surgery. Learn about proven and unproven treatments and talk to your doctor about the best treatments options for you.

Decision aids can help patients choose between different healthcare options. Decision aids can improve people's knowledge about treatment options and help them feel clearer about their health priorities.

Symptoms of GERD are heartburn and regurgitation. To treat symptoms, try changing your diet and avoid eating in the evening. Medications and surgery can help, but increase the risk of side effects or serious complications.

Primary brain tumours are cancers that develop in the brain. Symptoms can include seizures, headaches and difficulty concentrating. Treatment includes surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Detailed information about gliomas in this resource.

Women who are not at risk for ovarian cancer should avoid ovarian screening. Ovarian screening can give false-positive results which can lead to unnecessary surgery. Talk to your doctor about your individual risk factors and preferences before making a decision about cancer screening.

Hormone therapy is one option that can be used to treat the symptoms of menopause. Long-term hormone therapy may prevent bone fractures, but it can also increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, heart attack, and breast cancer. The long-term use of hormone therapy is not currently recommended as a preventative strategy. Weigh the pros and cons of this treatment option with your doctor if you are having severe issues related to menopause.

There is no conclusive research about how diet choices, exercise, relaxation techniques, herbal supplements or alternative therapies affect menopause symptoms. Use caution if you try herbal supplements and alternative therapies to treat menopause symptoms; some of these can have serious side effects.

The Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care does not recommend men get screened for prostate cancer with a PSA test because the harms outweigh the benefits. The harms of screening include: false positives, over-diagnosis, infection, erectile dysfunction, urine leakage and biopsy complications.

The Canadian Task Force on Prevent Health Care does not recommend men get screened for prostate cancer with a PSA test. The potential harms of screening and follow-up treatment do not outweigh the small benefits.

Prostate cancer screening with a PSA test is not recommended because there are more potential harms than benefits.

Calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition (CPPD) is caused by calcium pyrophosphate crystals being deposited in joint tissues. Treatment options for the pain and swelling that accompany CPPD include injections and oral medications.

Gauze dressings should not be used to treat pressure ulcers (bed sores). Other options include alginate dressings, hydrogel dressings, and negative pressure wound therapy. More evidence is needed about which options are best to improve pain and reduce complications. Research should measure outcomes that matter to patients and carers as well as health professionals.

Most peptic ulcers are caused by an infection with a type of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori. Use of painkillers can increase your risk of peptic ulcers. Common symptoms include abdominal pain, and treatments include lifestyle changes and medications.

If you have a family history or personal history with specific cancers, you may be at an increased risk of developing them. Consider genetic counseling and testing if you are at high risk. Consult with a healthcare provider to determine your risk level.

You may need surgery to treat mitral valve regurgitation. Surgery options include repairing the valve or replacing with an artificial valve. Speak with your doctor to determine which surgery may be right for you.

Mitral valve replacement is done by open-heart surgery to treat heart valve problems such as mitral valve regurgitation or mitral valve stenosis. Depending on the cause of your condition and how severe it is, your doctor may recommend this surgery. Details about risks and benefits of this surgery in this resource.

Aortic valve regurgitation is a heart disease caused when your heart valve does not close properly allowing backflow of blood. Symptoms include chest pain, a rapid heart beat and fatigue. Medication or surgery are treatment options.

The cause of tinnitus is not known and few treatments have been proven to work. Some research shows that cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) could help. This treatment helps you deal with distress caused by the condition.

Antiphospholipid syndrome is an immune disorder that can cause blood clots. Medicines such as anticoagulants (blood thinners) are often prescribed for this condition. Details about symptoms and treatment in this resource.

DMARDs are used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. They work to decrease pain and inflammation and keep the joint working. They can take weeks or months to provide relief. This resource provides details about this medicine.

Arrhythmias are abnormal heart beats, some are more serious than others. Your doctor may recommend an electrocardiogram (ECG) test to find the cause and recommend treatment.

Medications for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease help with symptoms. Some of the medicines prescribed to help with breathing are bronchodilators, steroids and anti-inflammatories. Details about medication options for COPD in this resource.

Gout is a painful condition that develops in some people who have high blood levels of urate. This condition can be prevented with anti-inflammatories and by lowering urate with diet changes. The goal of treatment is to reduce pain.

Identifying and avoiding triggers of your asthma is important. This website gives a list of asthma treatments, side effects, and how to treat an asthma attack. Visit your healthcare provider to discuss an effective treatment plan.

Creams containing azelaic acid or the antibiotic metronidazole may help with your rosacea symptoms.

Opioids are a type of medicine that can be prescribed by your doctor for chronic pain. Not everyone gets adequate pain relief from opioids and many people can become addicted to this type of medication. Most people should not take opioids for a long time.

Speak with your health care provider about your risk of colorectal cancer to determine when you should start getting screened, and when you should stop. Your health care provider may recommend getting screened earlier and more often if you have an increased risk of this type of cancer (eg. family history of colon cancer, polyps or inflammatory bowel disease).

Exercise and speech therapy can help relieve symptoms of Parkinson’s disease in addition to medication. These therapies aim to improve patients’ movement, speech, mental health and independence in daily life.

Breast cancer found early can often be cured. This resource gives information about different breast cancer treatment options for postmenopausal women.

Breast cancer found early can often be cured. This resource gives information about different breast cancer treatment options for premenopausal women.

Chronic muscle pain and tenderness are symptoms of fibromyalgia. There are medications to help ease symptoms. Also try exercise, relaxation therapy, tai chi, or yoga.

Low-dose aspirin can help reduce the risk of blood clots, heart attack, stroke and some cancers. Side effects include bleeding in the stomach. Talk to your doctor before deciding to take aspirin regularly.

Warts are almost always harmless and usually disappear on their own in time. Common treatments include salicyclic acid and cryotherapy (freezing the warts).

Arthroscopic knee surgery involves small incisions to remove damaged tissue. This procedure helps provide short term pain relief, but not long term benefits and there are risks involved. Researchers do not recommend it for middle aged or older adults.

Women with HER2 positive breast cancer tumours may benefit from chemotherapy and targeted treatment. Read about treatment options here and discuss your options with your doctor.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a blood cancer. Chemotherapy is a common treatment - side effects include hair loss, vomiting, and higher risk of infection. More information related to treatment for ALL is available in this resource.

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a cancer of the blood and bone marrow. Common treatments are chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation. AML in older adults can be more difficult to treat.

There is not enough research to deny hormone therapy to women who have had their ovaries removed. However, there may be an increased risk of returning pain and more surgery. More research is needed.

A Pap test screens for cervical cancer. It recommended that sexually active women 25-69 have one every 3 years. Screening is not recommended for those older than 70 if your last 3 Pap tests were negative.

This resource includes information about the Pap test and what an abnormal test result means.

A peak flow meter measures lung function and the severity of asthma symptoms. It is an inexpensive, easy way to monitor asthma symptoms at home. Regular measurements can help guide treatment. This website gives tips on how to use it.

Pulmonary embolism occurs when a blood clot leaves a vein and travels to the lung. Treatment includes blood thinners to prevent a new or growing blood clot. This lowers the risk of complications.

Warfarin is often prescribed for people with high risk of blood clots. Take care to prevent injury and falls while taking this medication and report any abnormal bleeding, bruising or pain to your doctor. More in this resource about foods and medication to avoid while taking warfarin.

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) help relieve pain and inflammation and are some of the most commonly used medicines. NSAIDS may cause complications for people with certain medical conditions or taking certain medications. Read this resource for details and discuss with your doctor.

Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint stiffness, pain and swelling. Medications and physical therapy can help improve symptoms. Also try exercise, rest and diet changes. Herbal and nutritional supplements are not recommended.

Osteoporosis causes bones to become thin, weak and brittle. Women are at a higher risk after menopause because of lower levels of estrogen. Prevent osteoporosis with vitamin D, calcium, exercise and not smoking. Some medications can also help.

Some medications can relieve symptoms of acute gout attacks, including anti-inflammatory painkillers, cochicine and corticosteroids. Some have more serious side effects.

Parkinson disease is a movement disorder. Medication, education, exercise (such as Tai Chi, swimming, walking), physical and speech therapy, and diet changes may help ease or manage symptoms. Details in this resource.

There has been an improvement in survival of patients with multiple myeloma over the past 30 years. Treatment can include chemotherapy and bone marrow transplants. Treatment recommendations are often related to a person's age - details in this resource.

Medications that break up clots (thrombolytic drugs) and aspirin are often used for early treatment of ischemic stroke. Anticoagulants (blood thinners) are seldom recommended. Longer term treatment after a stroke includes making lifestyle changes and using medication to prevent clots and manage risk factors such as cholesterol and blood pressure.

Symptoms of sinusitis include blocked nose, nose or face pain and thick, abnormal nose discharge. Get immediate treatment if you have a high fever, severe pain, double vision or swelling around your eyes.

Treatment options for breast cancer include medications, chemotherapy and surgery. Recent evidence shows the drug trastuzumab (Herceptin®) can reduce cancer progression by more than one third. Speak with your doctor about treatment options, talk to other patients about their experiences, understand the latest evidence on breast cancer treatments and use a decision aid (links in this resource).

There are different treatments for psoriasis. One option involves applying medication such as steroids right on the skin. Steroids have been shown to be effective and well tolerated.

Be aware of the benefits and risks of screening tests. Talk to your doctor to find out what kind of screening is right for you.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause gastric ulcers and bleeding. The dose taken, duration of use, and presence of pre-existing diseases are all factors that can increase the risk of experiencing complications from the use of NSAIDs. Take the lowest dose possible and only for as long as needed to lower the risk of complications.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are pain relieving or reducing medications, many of which are available over-the-counter, such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Using such medications at high dosages and over a long period of time can increase the risk of side effects. Side effects range from headaches and indigestion to peptic ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding. Talk to your health care provider about how you can take these medications safely.

Over-the-counter painkillers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be effective for pain relief. However, these medications can also come with side effects. To safely use over-the-counter medications, always monitor the dose you are taking, use them for only as long as needed, and be aware of possible interactions they may have with other medicinal products you are using.

Cannabinoids are chemicals found in cannabis. Cannabinoids can help relieve nausea and/or vomiting caused by cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation. Cannabis use may result in negative side effects such as dry mouth, sensory changes, increased blood pressure, and issues with memory and concentration. More research is needed to establish cannabis or cannabinoids as cancer treatments.

The development of foot ulcers is a common issue in people with diabetes. Practicing good foot care and getting your feet checked regularly by a health professional such as a doctor or a podiatrist can help with prevention. If you do develop a foot ulcer, treatments may include protective dressings, medication, special shoes, and surgery.

Your doctor can check if you have high blood pressure by putting an arm cuff around your arm that measures blood pressure. If you have high blood pressure, it can be treated by making lifestyle changes such as eating less salt, exercising, maintaining a healthy weight, and limiting alcohol. Medication is another treatment option.

Checking your blood pressure at home is important if you have high blood pressure. Digital monitors placed on the upper arm are often the best option. Before you use a new monitor, have your doctor check it over. Measure your blood pressure twice a day and avoid measuring right after you wake up.

Live a healthy lifestyle to best defend yourself against high blood pressure. Eat healthy, be active, maintain a healthy weight, eat less salt, and limit caffeine. Medication can also be used to treat high blood pressure.

Medications that reduce inflammation or suppress your immune system are common treatments for Crohn's disease. Lifestyle and diet changes may also help with symptom control and flare-ups. Try to eat low-fat foods, limit dairy products, eat small meals, drink lots of water, consider multivitamins, and avoid smoking.

More research is needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of marijuana and marijuana oil in people with active Crohn's disease.

If you have foot pain due to an injury, it might respond well to rest and cold. Put ice on your foot for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day. You can also try anti-inflammatory medication. See a doctor right away if it is serious.

A cataract causes blurry vision. Cataract surgery removes the cloudy lens from your eye and replaces it with an artificial one. Cataract surgery usually takes an hour or less to complete, and you go home the same day.

There is class of type 2 diabetes medication that can improve blood sugar control and also lead to weight loss. Depending on the exact medication and dose, weight loss could be 3 to 5.5 pounds, or more if you are actively trying to lose weight.

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a type of talk therapy that can help treat mental health disorders. CBT works best if you are honest with your therapist and stick to your treatment plan. Also, do not expect immediate results.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is often difficult to treat. Treatments include: soluble fiber (eg. psyllium), peppermint oil capsules, probiotics, anti-cramping medications, medications for diarrhea/constipation, antibiotics, antidepressants and acupuncture. All have varying rates of success and side effects.

Studies suggest medications containing memantine can help to slow the loss of activities of daily life and mental ability (memory, learning). More research is needed to know whether memantine works better or worse than other Alzheimer's treatments.

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease that is not contagious. Symptoms include red patches, scaly skin and itchy skin. Creams, bathing, UV light therapy or medications can help.

Hormone therapy for menopause can help in the short-term to treat menopause symptoms like hot flashes and sweats. Long-term hormone therapy is not recommended because of serious side-effects like increased risk of blood clots, stroke and breast cancer.

COPD can cause a cough and makes it difficult to breath. There are many different ways to diagnose and treat COPD. To prevent COPD, do not smoke cigarettes. If you currently smoke, quitting can still help prevent COPD.

Natural alternatives to hormone therapy such as phytoestrogens and herbs are sometimes used to treat menopause symptoms, but not all are safe and some may be harmful. More research is needed.

Hormone therapy can treat menopause symptoms but may also increase your risk of cancer. It does not decrease risk of heart disease. Consider your medical history, preferences, and concerns when deciding if you will use hormone therapy.

Signs of colon polyps include abdominal pain, blood in stool or a change in bathroom habits. It is important to get screened if you are at risk since some polyps can develop into colon cancer. Many polyps can be removed during screening.

Heartburn is a symptom of GERD. Treatments include lifestyle changes, medicine and surgery. This resource includes tips for lifestyle changes, including elevating your bed, avoiding certain foods and eating smaller meals. If lifestyle changes do not work, your doctor may recommend medication. Serious cases may require surgery.

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a cancer of a kind of white blood cell known as a lymphocyte. It is more common in men and older adults. You may be treated with chemotherapy and immunotherapy. This resource provides detailed information about the disease.

Follicular lymphoma is a cancer of the white blood cells. Older adults, women, and certain ethnicities are at a higher risk. Symptoms include swelling in lymph nodes in the neck, armpit and groin. This resource provides more information on symptoms, diagnosis and staging, and treatment.

Some medications (detailed in this resource) can help bladder control problems and urinary incontinence. Talk to your doctor to see which medication is right for you, and to learn about possible side effects.

One study recommends that people age 60+ start treatment for high blood pressure when their blood pressure is 150/90. This is different than the current recommendation to start treatment at 140/90. Talk to your doctor about the best time to for you to start blood pressure treatment.

Bisphosphonates are commonly prescribed to treat osteoporosis. They slow bone breakdown and lower your risk of breaking bones. Side effects may include heart burn and upset stomach. Talk to your doctor to find the right type of bisphosphonates for you. Exercising, eating well and avoiding alcohol and tobacco can also help treat osteoporosis.

Use this diagnostic tool to find out how well you (or a loved one) are living with diabetes.

A new guideline suggests that most healthy women do not need a pelvic exam every year. If you are pregnant or have symptoms (eg. pain), you may need more frequent pelvic exams. Decisions about having a pelvic exam should consider a woman's needs and preferences.

Levels of the hormone DHEA decrease as your age, causing symptoms such as lower muscle mass, bone density and cognitive impairment. However, DHEA supplements do not seem to slow aging and may increase your risk of certain cancers and other health problems. More research is needed.

Women with cancer can now opt for contralateral prophylactic mastectomy (CPM). This option is for women with cancer who choose to remove their healthy breast. Details about the pros and cons of this approach in this resource.

Diabetes and high blood pressure are the two main causes of chronic kidney disease. Changes in how much you urinate, fatigue, sleep problems and nausea are all signs of loss of kidney function. Treatment involves medication, treating underlying health issues, and lifestyle changes.

Probiotics are good bacteria that help keep your digestive system healthy. They are available supplements and certain foods. Details in this resource about when to avoid taking probiotics, and considerations to ask your doctor.

Treatment for a stroke depends on whether it is an ischemic or a hemorrhagic stroke. An ischemic stroke is caused by a blood clot and treated with clot-busting medication. A hemorrhagic stroke is caused by bleeding in your brain and treated with a surgical procedure. After a stroke, your doctor will usually recommend rehabilitation to help speed your recovery.

Rehabilitation after stroke can help you relearn any skills lost as a result of the stroke. It is important to start rehabilitation as soon as possible after a stroke. This resource provides details about rehabilitation.

Chronic kidney disease results in a slow loss of kidney function. Treatment is meant to slow down the development of kidney damage. You may not notice symptoms until the disease is advanced. Complications include high blood pressure, anemia, and retaining fluids. To reduce the risk of kidney disease, avoid smoking, manage medical conditions, maintain a healthy weight, and follow the instructions outlined on the package when using over-the-counter medications.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of your peptic ulcer. If tests show that you have an H. pylori infection, your doctor may recommend a combination of antibiotics and medication to help reduce stomach acid. Otherwise, acid blockers may be prescribed to reduce stomach acid and ulcer pain. If your ulcer does not heal, your doctor may recommend more tests to find another possible cause of your symptoms.

There are many types of liver disease, which can be caused by genetics, viruses, obesity and alcohol abuse. Abdominal pain, a yellowing of the skin or eyes and chronic fatigue are all signs of liver disease. If left untreated, the damage to your organ can lead to liver failure. Speak to your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms of liver disease.

Symptoms of diabetic neuropathy (nerve pain) range from numbness to severe pain. Some evidence suggests alternative treatments may help with pain such as exercise, capsaicin skin cream or dietary supplements such as alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin D.

Breast cancer is the most common female cancer in the US. The death rate has declined, partly due to increased screening and improved treatment. When found and treated early it is often curable. This website gives information about diagnosing and treating breast cancer.

Septic arthritis refers to an infection in a joint (usually the knee or hip) and is most common in infants and older adults. Doctors use joint drainage and antibiotics to treat septic arthritis.

Palliative care focuses on providing relief from symptoms and stress you may experience during treatment for a serious illness. Read more to learn about whether or not palliative care may be right for you.

Certain medications may help improve symptoms that impact thinking and memory in some people with dementia. Other drug treatments can help with related symptoms, such as depression, sleeping problems and agitation. Details about these medications in this resource.

Many people do not take their medication as prescribed by their health care provider. There are many ways to encourage people to take their medication, including encouragement by health providers, family and friends, but these do not always lead to improvements. More research is needed on this topic.

Research shows that if you receive text message reminders to take your medicine, you might be less likely to miss a dose. Weekly messages may work better than daily messages. More research is needed.

It can be difficult to keep track of all of your medications, particularly if you are taking multiple prescriptions. Any medication is dangerous if not taken properly. Keep your schedule simple, put your pills in easy-to-use packages, and set reminders to help you better manage your long-term medication. Talk to your doctor if you have questions or concerns about your medication.

Chronic pain is mild to severe pain that lasts longer than six months. Some alternative approaches (acupuncture, yoga, herbal supplements), used in addition to conventional medicine, may help people manage chronic pain. Speak with your doctor before you begin any alternative health approach to make sure it is safe for you.

Cholesterol and triglyceride levels can be measured with blood tests. Too much cholesterol can increase your risk of heart attack or stroke or heart disease.

There are many different types of hearing aids available. They may fit behind the ear, in the ear, or are an open fit. Details in this resource include pictures of different options. Ask for a trial period before you buy.

It is common to have gradual hearing loss with age. Being around loud noise and a family history of hearing loss increases your risk. Removing ear wax, surgery and hearing aids are common treatments, depending on the cause of hearing loss.

Carotid endarterectomy surgery aims to reduce risk of stroke. Ask your doctor if the benefits of this surgery outweigh the risks. Risks include: stroke, heart attack, breathing problems, high blood pressure, infection and nerve injury.

Intracranial stents are designed to keep the blood vessels open and prevent strokes. Stents can actually increase the risk of stroke for people who have had a stroke. The most common way to prevent stroke is to use medication.

An eye exam is a series of tests performed by an ophthalmologist or optometrist to check your general eye health. Your age, health and risk of developing eye diseases affect how frequently you will need an eye exam. If you wear glasses or contact lenses or if you have a family history of eye disease you will need to have your eyes checked more often.

Lower your risk of cataracts by not smoking, limiting alcohol, controlling diabetes and wearing sunglasses. Eyeglasses or contact lenses can help correct vision. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective treatment. Pictures in this slideshow.

Cholinesterase inhibitors are medications that may help to slow the loss of cognitive abilities for people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease. Side effects include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, dizziness or diarrhea. It is unclear how these medications stack up against other treatment options.

A penicillin skin test is used to see if a person is allergic to penicillin. Negative results mean there is likely no allergy. Allergic reactions to penicillin can include fever, muscle pain and even death.

The IQCODE questionnaire can be used to find out whether you have a memory disorder. The test can lead to false dementia diagnosis for healthy patients. A single tool is likely not the best approach for diagnosing dementia.

Allergen-specific immunotherapy is designed to reduce allergy symptoms in the medium to long term by repeatedly exposing the person to an allergy extract over a long period of time. Research has shown it is effective for treating hay fever and year-round (perennial) allergic rhinitis. Around 50% of those treated with immunotherapy experience mild and temporary side effects. Serious side effects can occur but are very rare. Talk with your doctor to see if allergen-specific immunotherapy is right for you.

If you choose to donate blood, you will first be asked about your medical history, age and weight. Vital signs and a blood test will be done. Currently, the risk of getting an infection from blood transfusion is very low.

Your risk of developing osteoporosis is higher if you take prednisone. To limit the risk of osteoporosis while on this medication, try weight bearing exercises and avoid alcohol and tobacco. Calcium and vitamin D supplements may help lower your risk.

It is important that doctors and patients work together to make decisions about advanced heart failure. Developing an end-of-life care plan that meets your values, goals and preferences will help to simplify decisions later on.

Abnormal heart rhythms can be dangerous. Your doctor might prescribe medicine to treat this condition, such as beta-blockers or amiodarone. Details about these medicines in this resource.

If you are between 50 and 74 years of age, you should have regular mammograms to test for breast cancer every 2-3 years. If you are over the age of 75, talk to your doctor before going for breast cancer screening.

There is little evidence that taking echinacea will help you get over a cold faster or reduce cold symptoms. If you take other medications, talk to your doctor before taking echinacea.

Acute sinusitis is most often caused by the common cold and can last up to a few weeks. Symptoms include a blocked or runny nose, severe facial pain and a high fever. Treatment options include nasal sprays and antibiotics.

Cardiac rehabilitation is a therapy that includes exercise, education, and support to help you make choices that will improve your heart health. This therapy can help lower your chance of going to the hospital.

Rosacea is a skin condition that causes red patches on your face. Treatments include antibiotics or medicated gels, creams and lotions. Avoiding things that trigger your rosacea can help prevent it.

Shared decision-making is when patients and their doctors make choices together considering the best available information and the patient's preferences. This website gives a patient's story of shared decision-making and Graves Disease.

Blood in your faeces (poop) can come from anywhere in the gut. Hemorrhoids are the most common cause of rectal bleeding. If you notice any bleeding or have black faeces, see a doctor. They will perform tests to find the cause.

Food allergies can cause serious or even life-threatening reactions. Adults and parents of kids with food allergies can learn how to read food labels to avoid eating these foods. Read this resource for other tips to avoid allergic reactions from food.

Surgery to remove the tumour is the most common treatment for bladder cancer, often followed by chemotherapy. Close follow up by your doctor is important as bladder cancer often comes back.

Use this decision aid to help understand your choices about breast cancer screening, including the risks and benefits of mammograms.

Exercise programs after back surgery can help improve recovery and might also increase mobility.

LASIK surgery can help correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Risks include dry eyes, vision disturbance, and problems healing. Before surgery, talk with your eye doctor about the risks and benefits of treatment options (details in this resource).

There is some evidence showing that acupuncture helps relieve itchiness. More research is needed. If you suffer from itchiness it may be worth giving a try.

Hormone therapy treatment does little to prevent heart disease in post-menopausal women, although the benefits might be greater for women who start sooner after menopause. It does increase risk of stroke. Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of this treatment option.

Over 50 self-treatment tips for relief of common pain problems and injuries, including strength training, icing, swimming and stress relief.

Many of the leading causes of death among men (heart disease, stroke, cancer and respiratory disease) can be prevented. A healthy diet, staying physically active, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol, managing stress and getting recommended health screenings will all help improve your health.

There are no treatments that fight common cold viruses directly. Painkillers and nasal sprays may help relieve symptoms, but the benefits of many treatments are not well studied or have no proven effect. Antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections.

Bisphosphonates are normally taken for 3 to 5 years. Side effects may include stomach upset, jawbone problems and thighbone fractures. If after 5 years you still have a high risk of fractures, your doctor may recommend you continue to take bisphosphonates or another osteoporosis medication.

A low-dose of penicillin every day for up to a year may prevent cellulitis from recurring, with few side effects. It is important, however, to use the penicillin properly to prevent bacterial resistance.

Cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow is known as multiple myeloma. Growth of these cells leads to bone pain, fractures and other issues. Blood and bone marrow tests are used for diagnosis.

Testosterone levels naturally decline with age. Testosterone therapy can increase the risk of sleep problems, blood clots, enlarged breasts and more. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits if considering this type of hormone therapy.

There are several drugs that can help temporarily stop or slow vision loss for people with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD), but there is no cure.

Fire ants can sting and cause an allergic reaction. Kill the ant and wash the sting site with soap and cool water. Antihistamines can help reduce itching. Get emergency treatment if you show signs of anaphylaxis (trouble breathing or swallowing, fainting).

A recent review showed that ultrasound may help heal broken bones. However, the quality of the evidence included in the review was low and more research is needed.

Treatment can often slow the progress of stomach cancer, and the earlier it is diagnosed, the better. Discuss treatment options with a specialist who knows your case.

Sumatriptan and Zolmitriptan medications can help relieve migraine symptoms. They both offer pain relief and the side effects from both these drugs are generally mild.

Alternative cancer treatments such as exercise, yoga, acupuncture, aromatherapy, massage therapy, hypnosis, music therapy, and meditation may offer relief from your symptoms. They may help with anxiety, fatigue, nausea and vomiting, pain, difficulty sleeping, and stress.

Reduce the symptoms of enlarged hemorrhoids. Prevent constipation, relax and take your time on the toilet. Try a warm bath, ointment or a suppository.

Talk to your doctor about other options for severe enlarged hemorrhoids if treating the symptoms does not give you relief. Treatment options include sclerotherapy, rubber band ligation (banding), hemorrhoid removal and stapling.

Studies show low-level laser therapy may help to lower back pain, but the effects were small and the reviewers do not recommend choosing this therapy over other beneficial treatments.

Traction does not appear to be a useful treatment for lower back pain.

Occupational therapy can help people recover better and be more independent after a stroke. More research is needed on the specific benefits of occupational therapy.

Abdominal obesity can lead to health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Two ways to measure abdominal fat are waist circumference (easy to measure and interpret) and waist-to-hip ratio.

Advanced heart failure occurs when heart therapies and symptom management no longer work. Consider the American Heart Association recommendations (in this resource) when you make decisions about advanced heart failure treatments and care plans.

Screening tests are more useful if the disease is serious, if the test is reliable, if the test is not harmful and if the disease has better treatment options when detected early. Screening is not a diagnosis and can sometimes lead to a false alarm. This resource includes questions to ask your doctor.

Surgery is not usually needed for benign enlarged prostate. It may be an option, however, if the enlarged prostate is causing urinary tract infections or bladder stones, or if other treatments are not helping. The transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) is considered to be the standard surgical approach. There are other variations of TURP, as well as laser treatments. Talk to your doctor to find out what treatment is right for you.

A stroke can damage the brain. Surgery may be recommended as an option to stop bleeding or lower pressure inside the skull. Information on stroke complications and stroke treatment in the source.

Probiotics may help to keep your digestive system healthy. Prebiotics act as food for probiotics. There is some evidence that probiotics may help treat diarrhea, yeast infections and irritable bowel syndrome. More research is needed on the role that probiotics and prebiotics play in digestive health.

In acute kidney failure, your kidneys suddenly (generally in less than a few days) stop working. You may notice swelling and a decreased amount of urine. It is most common among people who are critically ill. Otherwise healthy people can recover.

Heart valve replacement surgery is performed to repair or replace a valve that is not working properly. In most cases, a surgeon will operate to remove the damaged valve and replace it with a new one. This is a common type of surgery with a low risk of complications.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a problem in the inner ear that can cause you to feel dizzy. The Epley manoeuver, which consists of several head movements done by a health professional, can help with BPPV.

Seventy percent of bladder cancer cases are not invasive. Surgery to remove the bladder is the most common treatment for invasive bladder cancer. This resource provides details, including answers to the common question, "Where will the urine go?"

Wheelchairs, walkers, canes and crutches help adults with arthritis keep mobile. This resource includes details about other devices, therapies, rehabilitation and health professionals to help you choose the support you need.

With the appropriate counselling, exercise can improve fitness, well-being and activities of daily living in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Mitral stenosis is a heart disease caused by the narrowing of a heart valve which stops it from opening properly. Symptoms include shortness of breath, fatigue, weakness, and pounding heart. If left untreated, mitral valve stenosis may cause serious heart damage.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a problem in the inner ear that can cause you to feel dizzy. Canalith repositioning can help with BPPV. This resource includes pictures of how to do this manoeuver.

Recognize signs of eye floaters, cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration which can occur with age. Speak with your doctor about changes in your eyesight.

Finding breast cancer early means a better chance for successful treatment and the cancer is less likely to spread. Mammograms are used as a breast cancer screening tool.