Understanding test results

Have you ever heard the saying "A little knowledge can be a dangerous thing?" Sometimes folks will draw wrong conclusions when they read or hear things they only partially understand.

There seems to be a natural tendency for folks to think the worst and become upset with these erroneous conclusions. I remember when it was almost impossible to get test results from anyone other than the doctor ordering the test. It had its good and bad points. Sometimes folks had to wait for results longer than they wanted to. But at least when they were given results, they were able to ask questions of the doctor at the time and come away with an understanding of what the test results meant.

Doctors have a responsibility to their patients to be sure they understand test results. This also goes for explaining any procedures or surgeries or other treatments to the patient before deciding to proceed with them. Sometimes patients need to assert themselves and ask questions about things they understand and be sure they have a sound understanding of the issues at hand. There is no reason to come away from an appointment questioning what something meant.

When folks ask me what a particular test result means, I can only provide them with generalized definitions of the different words in the diagnosis. I am not in the position to provide specific explanations of results because I do not know all of the circumstances of the case. The doctor is the one who should provide this information so he can explain things in relation to your specific condition.

Related Topics: Health Tools, 25 Steps to Help Curb Health Problems

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Hurting fathers

To all of the fathers I hope you had a special day...but the truth is there will be those who did not. There are men out there who hurt because they have been separated from their children. Sometimes the reasons may be legitimate but other times they may not. This can be a very painful situation.

All too often children are used as pawns in difficult and painful ways that leave no one a winner and the children often the main losers in the end. Way too often children are made to feel guilty and at fault for relationships gone wrong when in reality the problems are between the parents.

The children become scapegoats for anger and bitterness that should be related only between adults. Children need safe loving environments to grow up where good values and morals are taught and demonstrated by the adults in the home. Children need both parents because each parent is able to teach and demonstrate an aspect of life that can not be shared by the other. As much as child needs their mom, they also need a father figure in their life - someone who will provide them with the love and care they deserve.

If you are a man who is being unjustly kept from your children I hope you will seek out ways to let your child/children know you love them. Do what needs to be done so you can see your children and be a part of their life. Seek legal counsel and perhaps join a father's rights and/or a support group. Hopefully next year there will be less unhappy and hurting fathers on Father's day.

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Nostalgic moments

It is hard to believe it has been 30 years since I graduated from High School! As I look back, I realize I graduated from nursing school in 1986. My Bachelors degree was earned in 1995 And I will be finished with my Masters degree in a few weeks. My how time flies as we get older!!

I love learning. There is something about breaking open a new book and feeling the stiffness and smelling the pages!! I am one of those folks who goes crazy in an office supply store!!! I can’t help it!! As a kid I used to remember getting ready to go school shopping…and as an adult, I would feel nostalgic when that time of year would roll around and I would remember the fun I had!

I have had the privilege to meet and learn from a lot of wonderful folks over the years here at WebMD. Some folks have been with me since I joined the WebMD family roughly 6 years ago and over the years they have become like family to me. I am thankful for the willingness of folks to share their experiences and the caring that so many have demonstrated over the years. I look forward to many more years with all of you!

Better Safe Than Sorry

On my Migraine and Pain Management message boards on WebMD, I am often asked by folks if I feel they should go to a doctor or not.

My answer is always the same: Whenever you notice a new symptom or a change in a current symptom, and if these symptoms do not respond to routine remedies prescribed or used in your past or if they continue to grow in intensity, duration, frequency, etc. then you should go to a doctor to be seen and evaluated.

It doesn't necessarily mean your condition is serious or fatal or even significant. But you won't know for sure unless you are seen and properly evaluated and diagnosed. Testing may be necessary in order to gain a definitive diagnosis.

My feeling is it is better to be safe than sorry -- Don't take chances with your health.

Related Topics: 25 Steps to Help Curb Health Problems, Women's Top 5 Health Concerns

If you don't use it you will lose it!

Pain can keep even the most energetic folks from stepping out. For some it is the current level of pain they have that keeps them from exercising. Others may be concerned they will exacerbate a condition they have or develop one they are afraid of experiencing.

The truth is, exercising is very important if you want to maintain flexibility and function. There is truth in the statement "If you don't use it, you lose it."

Ligaments will shorten with lack of use. Muscles become deconditioned and often develop cramps and spasms when used sporadically. These aches and pains often lead to more hesitation and less exercise. A vicious cycle can develop leading to contractures and frozen joints.

Do you have a problem with decreased range of motion? Increased spasms? Speak to your doctor about an exercise program that will help you retain your range of motion and ability to function.

Related Topics: WebMD Video: Office Workout, How Fit Are You?

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