Medical organizations have long recommended taking antibiotics before certain procedures that could cause bacteria to infect the heart, but new guidelines state that only people with certain heart conditions or diseases need take the drugs.
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In a reversal of its previous advice, the American College of Cardiology says that most people with heart disease do not need to take antibiotics before having dental work done, but people in certain categories still need the medication.
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I had stents placed. My doctor told me to take Plavix and aspirin indefinitely. Now I need a hernia repair. My surgeon said to stop taking the drugs before the operation. My cardiologist says that would increase my chance of a clot in one of the stents.
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What UVA-blocking ingredients should I look for in a sunscreen? And does a higher SPF rating mean greater UVA protection?
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I just reviewed your article on PSA testing. After talking with my wife, I’ve decided to skip the PSA test when I go for my annual physical next month. But your article doesn’t say much about rectal exams. Should I skip that also?
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A small study found that cognitive behavioral therapy was a more effective treatment for seasonal affective disorder than light therapy.
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When I get a flow of green mucus from my nose after a cold, I get a prescription for antibiotics. But last week my doctor was on vacation, and the young covering M.D. would not call in an antibiotic. I was very upset. What can I do if this happens again?
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The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test can detect prostate cancer early enough for treatment, but it cannot determine whether the cancer is aggressive or indolent, and overdiagnosis is its biggest drawback.
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Exercise helps boost the body’s production of HDL cholesterol, but the amount of the increase can vary. The longer the workout, the more the body’s HDL cholesterol level is likely to be raised.
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I had a high-sensitivity C-reactive protein test that was 38.6, which my doctor said was quite high. My cholesterol was fine. A heart scan and stress test were normal. When my doctor repeated the test, my hsCRP was 6.1. What can cause such variations?
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