I’ve had backpain for the last 3-4 years. It gets worse at times when I tweak it. It gets bad enough that I can’t even walk some days. I had an xray two years ago that said nothing was wrong. I’ve tried tylenol, mot rin, and aspirin. My back pain isn’t getting any better. Are there good prescription drugs out there I can take?

If analgesics are ineffective, there are a number of muscle relaxants on the market that are commonly prescribed for back pain. These include Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine), Robaxin (methocarbamol), Skelaxin (metaxalone), Soma (carisoprodol). They are most effective in increasing mobility and alleviating pain for acute onsets of severe debilitating muscle spasms that accompany low back pain. These… Continue reading I’ve had backpain for the last 3-4 years. It gets worse at times when I tweak it. It gets bad enough that I can’t even walk some days. I had an xray two years ago that said nothing was wrong. I’ve tried tylenol, mot rin, and aspirin. My back pain isn’t getting any better. Are there good prescription drugs out there I can take?

I got a bad cold 3 months ago and my doctor said I had Mono. I’ve stopped coughing and all and feel better but I’ve had these pretty big swollen glands on my neck ever since. Should I get them checked out?

Yes, you should have your swollen lymph nodes evaluated. Infectious mononucleosis often causes bilateral lymphadenopathy (swollen lymph nodes) and usually improves within 4 weeks of symptom resolution. Any lymph node that does not resolve is considered abnormal and should be biopsied by a surgeon as they could be a sign of lymphoma.

What is the best way to treat salmonella food poisoning?

Salmonella enteritis is diarrheal disease that often clears within 7 days. Healthy immunocompetent adults and children older than 12 months who are infected with the Salmonella enteritidis bacteria should be treated with supportive care by replacing lost fluids and electrolytes. The gastroenteritis from salmonella is usually self limited in these individuals and studies have shown… Continue reading What is the best way to treat salmonella food poisoning?

I am pregnant and work as an elementary school teacher. One of my students recently had “fifth’s disease” which I read was due to a parvovirus infection. I was told by the nurse that it can cause birth defects. What can I do?

Oftentimes exposure to parvovirus B19 (the virus that causes fifth’s disease) does not pose any harm to pregnant women. The reason is because most women have already been exposed to parvovirus and are therefore immune. If a women is not immune, she is likely to experience a mild infection without any attributable risk to her… Continue reading I am pregnant and work as an elementary school teacher. One of my students recently had “fifth’s disease” which I read was due to a parvovirus infection. I was told by the nurse that it can cause birth defects. What can I do?

I pulled my back lifting some luggage this morning. I iced it and it feels better but still hurts. Which pain killer is best for me?

Of the three over the counter NSAIDs (acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen), ibuprofen has the best antiinflammatory properties. Ibuprofen is sold as generic or brand name Motrin or Advil. It not only decreases pain but it is superior to aspirin and tylenol in decreasing swelling as well. Therefore, for muscle injuries, ibuprofen would be the better… Continue reading I pulled my back lifting some luggage this morning. I iced it and it feels better but still hurts. Which pain killer is best for me?