Mayo Clinic Q & A - March 2013 Archives

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: What causes Achilles tendinitis? Are there things I can do at home to help it heal more quickly?   ANSWER: Although Achilles tendinitis is often associated with an increase in sports activity, any increase in stress on the tendon can trigger symptoms. Most of the time it can be treated with relatively simple, at-home care under your doctor’s supervision. Tailoring your treatment to the cause of the problem is important in treating an Achilles tendon problem.  

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Is restless legs syndrome hereditary? Is there an effective treatment, or does a diagnosis of RLS mean I will have it for life?  ANSWER: Restless legs syndrome (RLS), is not always hereditary. But it does run in some families, and several genetic links have been found for RLS. While restless legs syndrome is most often a chronic condition, treatment is available that often can effectively control its symptoms.   Restless legs syndrome is a condition characterized by an unpleasant or uncomfortable urge to move your legs. Some people describe it as a crawling, pulling or burning sensation in their thighs, calves or feet. The sensation is temporarily relieved when you get up and move around, especially by walking, or when you shift or stretch your legs. RLS symptoms typically begin after you have been sitting or lying down for some time. Symptoms also tend to get worse in the evenings and at night, and are less bothersome during the day.  

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: Is it safe to order prescription drugs from an online pharmacy? ANSWER: Ordering online can be convenient. But if you choose to go through an online pharmacy to fill your prescriptions, be careful. You need to make sure the pharmacy you use is credible and properly licensed. Keep in mind, too, that if you use an online pharmacy, it is still worthwhile to get to know your local pharmacist. That way, if questions or concerns come up, you have someone you trust that you can go to for reliable information.  There are about four billion prescriptions filled in the United States every year. Americans spend more than $300 billion a year on prescription drugs. Patients looking to save money may turn to online pharmacies, which offer to fill prescriptions at reduced costs. Many online pharmacies are legitimate. But, not all Web sites that offer prescription drugs can be trusted. Some are not pharmacies at all. With that in mind, it is very important that you take steps to help ensure your own safety when deciding to use an online pharmacy.   

DEAR MAYO CLINIC: What are the most common symptoms of diabetes? Is it true that changes in my eyesight could mean I’m developing diabetes?   ANSWER: People who have diabetes have too much sugar in their blood. Although you can’t know your level of blood sugar without a blood test, high blood sugar may cause symptoms that are noticeable. The most common symptoms of diabetes are frequently feeling thirsty, urinating often, losing weight, feeling tired and having sores that heal slowly. Blurred vision or a change in eyesight also can be symptoms of diabetes.