Monday, January 07, 2008

Health Tips for January 7

Health Tip: Women and Antibiotics

Antibiotics are safe and effective medications prescribed to treat bacterial infections.

Here are possible side effects that women should be aware of before using these medications, courtesy of the Alliance for the Prudent Use of Antibiotics:

* Yeast infections.
* Diarrhea, upset stomach and vaginal infections.
* Decreased effectiveness of birth control pills.
* Certain antibiotics should not be taken by a woman who is pregnant or nursing, unless prescribed by a physician who is familiar with the woman's condition.
* Antibiotics can interact with many other medications.

Health Tip: Get the Most From Your Mammogram

A mammogram is an essential tool to protect women from newly diagnosed or recurring breast cancer.

Here are suggested ways to get the most accurate results from a mammogram, courtesy of breastcancer.org:

* Women with dense breasts or who are under age 50 may get better results with a digital mammogram.
* Bring your last mammogram results for the radiologist to compare.
* Have more than one radiologist read your results.
* Use other imaging methods to confirm results, such as an MRI or an ultrasound.
* If your doctor has requested your mammogram for a specific reason -- not just as a precaution because of your age -- be sure the doctor provides the radiologist with specific instructions on what to look for.
* Make sure your doctor knows your family's medical history, especially as it relates to breast cancer.

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