Minutes do matter in treating strokes

When it comes to strokes, Dr. James W. Kozelka wants people to know the window to begin treatment to restore blood flow and save brain cells is short.

From the onset of symptoms, Kozelka says doctors have just three hours to intervene with clot-dissolving drugs to help reverse the progression of a stroke.

Symptoms of a stroke include:

* Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg -- especially on one side of the body;

* Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding;

* Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes;

* Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination; or,

* Sudden severe headache with no known cause.

For more information, visit the National Stroke Association website at www.stroke.org.

Taking a mental status test

Mental status tests are given to determine the state of a person's mental health. The test, for example, can help gauge the mental progression of a physical illness such as Alzheimer's disease.

Here's what may comprise a mental status test, courtesy of the U.S. National Library of Medicine:

* An examination of physical appearance, including dress and grooming.

* Orientation and awareness -- knowing one's own name, address, and phone, as well as the current date and season.

* Length of attention span, and short-term and long-term memory.

* Tests to determine abilities including problem solving and judgment.

* Ability to identify objects and recall words.

Keep GERD under control

Gastroesophogeal reflux disease occurs when a valve in the esophagus opens spontaneously, and stomach contents rise up into the esophagus. It can be controlled with a doctor's treatment plan, which is likely to include medication.

Serious complications can result if the condition is left untreated. Here's a partial list, courtesy of the U.S. National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse:

* Ulcers of the esophagus from lining damaged by stomach acid.

* Narrowing of the esophagus, which can make it difficult to swallow.

* A condition called Barrett's esophagus, in which cells in the esophageal lining take on an unusual shape and color.

* Esophageal cancer.

* Exacerbated symptoms of other conditions, including asthma, chronic cough or pulmonary fibrosis.