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Health Mistakes You Need to Fix Now

The Truth about Salt

The average American consumes more than twice the recommended daily salt intake each day. Learn the dangers of excess salt.

Eat This, Not That
Editor-in-chief of Men's Health and author of Eat This, Not That, David Zinczenko, says that the biggest problem people face when it comes to food is they often don't know what they're eating.

Big food companies don't tend to tell consumers all the ingredients they put in food, which can radically mislead the customer. David wrote Eat This, Not That to help educate consumers about the food on their plate.

"It is so easy to lose weight when you know what you're eating," David says.

Food Dangers
Food can become contaminated with food-borne illnesses by to the way it's handled either during harvest and preparation in a food establishment. To offset the risk of contaminated leafy greens, buy organic produce and use a salad spinner to wash them.

Eat This, Not That

Read an excerpt from Eat This, Not That, by editor-in-chief of Men's Health, David Zinczenko.

Foods at Greatest Risk for Contamination:
• Leafy greens
• Eggs
• Tuna
• Oysters
• Cheese
• Potatoes

Waiter Confessions
Former waiter Steven DuBlanica spills dirty secrets about the food service industry.

Body Types
In general, people can be categorized into three different body types.

Ectomorphs tend to be thin, sinewy, long-limbed and delicate. They have a difficult time gaining weight and building muscle mass. Low-impact cardio exercises such as long-distance running, walking, biking and rock climbing are best for those with an ectomorph build.

Workouts for Every Body

In general, people can be categorized into three different body types. See which workouts are best for your body type!

Mesomorphs tend to have athletic builds, with high muscle mass and little fat. Endurance training and exercises such as pilates and yoga are recommended for those with a mesomorph build.

Endomorphs tend to store more fat and have pear- or apple-shaped bodies. Low-resistance exercises such as biking, walking or swimming are ideal for endomorphs.

"No matter what body type you have," says E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork, "find an exercise you enjoy."

Hoopilates
New York Pilates instructor Jen Bleier introduced a hula hoop into her practice and Hoopilates was born. Get into the swing of it!

Bags and Backs
It's a known fact that women love their accessories: Shoes, jewelry and ... purses! But experts say that carrying a heavy bag can cause back pain and structural imbalances. Doctors recommend toting a purse that weighs no more than 1 or 2 pounds. Try a Healthy Back bag by Ameribag, which distributes weight evenly across the shoulders.

Presbyopia
As the lens of the eye ages, the lens and the muscles that attach to it, lose flexibility, reducing the eye's ability to focus. This condition, presbyopia, tends to occur after the age of 40 and is often treated with corrective contact lenses. Optometrist Dr. Rhonda Robinson demonstrates how Bausch and Lomb multi-focal contact lenses work.

For more information about the products mentioned on this show, please go to Related Resources

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OAD 11/6/09

TBD

What Women Were Afraid to Ask, Until Now

The Doctors' Motherhood Survival Club
Model, TV personality, Co-CEO of ModernMom.com and mother of four Brooke Burke joins The Doctors to create the The Doctors' Motherhood Survival Club, an online community on TheDoctorsTV.com where moms can connect, vent, ask questions, share tips and more!

• Visit ModernMom.com
• Join The Doctors' Motherhood Survival Club!

Mommy 411
Brooke visits a Mommy and Me group to find out some of the biggest issues moms are struggling with.

"It was really fun," Brooke says. "And as chaotic as that looked, it was nice to get into an environment with moms where nobody was judging anybody. Because we all have that one mommy friend who tells you exactly how to do it and convinces you that her way is the only way. For me, what I always preach to everybody in my business is that you've got to find your own way and figure out what works for you. There are so many things that women want to know and they are too embarrassed to talk about it, or they're too afraid of what the other moms are going to say to them."

Brooke and The Doctors answer some of your most pressing motherhood questions:
• Are bowel movements normal during labor?

Having a bowel movement during labor is a natural and common occurrence.

Car Seat Safety

Pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears and Brooke talk about the importance of correctly installing a car seat.

• More car seat safety tips

"Your [OB/GYN] wants you to poop," OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson says. "If you poop, we absolutely know that you are pushing right, because those muscles are in the exact same place. As the baby comes through the [birth] canal, that is pushing right on your rectum, so that's absolutely normal.

"Delivering a baby is not about looking pretty," Dr. Lisa adds. "There's blood, there's amniotic fluid, there's [urine]. That is OK. You are making a miracle, and this miracle comes with other bodily fluids, and that is absolutely alright."

• How do you spice up your sex life after having a baby?

After a long day, new mothers may feel tired and want to just relax and have alone time rather than have sex. However, it is important to keep an intimate relationship alive with your husband after pregnancy. The Doctors and Brooke offer tips for spicing up your sex life.

"First, it's finding time for yourself, so that you have more energy, and that will put you in the mood," plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon says. "And then set specific time aside with your husband."

Dr. Lisa explains that you have to communicate and be honest with your partner. And she emphasizes, it is, "OK to separate yourself from your baby."

"There's this myth sometimes that [sex] is totally different," Brooke says. "I don't agree with that. It can actually get better, because suddenly you have this new bond and this new intimacy."

• Is it OK to let babies cry?

For busy mothers who may need 10 minutes of relaxation after a long day, Brooke suggests placing a crying baby into his or her crib.

Dr. Jim explains that research has shown that if you let a baby cry for less than 15 minutes, "Then you're probably not doing any physiological harm to the baby. There is some research [that says] that if it's prolonged, vigorous crying for longer than 15 minutes, maybe there is some decreased blood flow to the brain.

"But if it's just five to 10 minutes, and the baby is not terribly upset, and is in a safe place [like] a crib, then that's what you've got to do if that's the last resort," Dr. Jim adds.

Masking Melasma
After her 4-year-old daughter, Marissa, was born, Lisa developed melasma, an embarrassing skin problem also known as "the mask of pregnancy." Melasma causes the skin's pigmentation to darken on the cheeks, forehead, chin, upper lip and the bridge of the nose due to an increase in melanin, the primary determinant for skin color. The problem is often triggered by hormones during and after pregnancy, hormone replacement therapy, birth control pills and sun exposure.

Lisa is self-conscious about her melasma and has tried fading creams, but to no avail. Instead, she covers up the discoloration with layers of makeup. "When I do go out, I have that feeling that everybody looks at me," she says. "I don't take care of myself the way that I should, because I don't feel that I'm worthy of that."

Brooke Burke reveals that for nine years, she has been dealing with melasma as well. "This really hit home for me," Brooke says. "This is something that I haven't really addressed publicly.

"I have mastered the art of covering it," she adds.

In an act of solidarity, Brooke removes her makeup to expose her melasma and offers Lisa a chance to treat their problem together!

Bye-Bye Stretch Marks
Kara, 30, developed unsightly stretch marks on her breasts after breastfeeding.

"This is such a common problem," Dr. Ordon says. "Anywhere from 70 to 90 percent of all women have stretch marks."

Dr. Ordon explains what causes stretch marks.

Kara has tried using over-the-counter fading creams to treat her stretch marks, but none have worked. Cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Simon Ourian uses the CoolBeam laser treatment to help rid Kara of her embarrassing problem. "This is the first time that we can actually treat some of these silver and white stretch marks," Dr. Ourian says. "We have had great results."

Dr. Ourian explains that it usually takes two to five treatments to get rid of most stretch marks.

Menstruation Colors: What is Normal?
Elizabeth, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana has noticed that her menstruation blood is not always red like normal blood. Towards the end of her monthly cycle, she says it is often brown and asks The Doctors if this is normal.

Using the menstruation color wheel, Dr. Lisa explains what the colors of your blood mean.

TBD

Health Fads: Extreme or Extraordinary?

Pineapple Workout

Vibrate your way to fitness with Nick Morris' Pineapple Workout!

Sexy at Seventy
Seventy-one-year-old Mimi was named People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals' (PETA) Sexiest Vegetarian over the Age of 50.

"We know that eating a plant-based diet is good for your health. It can increase your lifespan and it can also just make you look vibrant," says E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork.

When asked her secret to looking beautiful, Mimi says, "I really feel it's my diet. I think outlook is important, and I'm happy to be here at 71 and feeling so good!"

Mimi is proud to say that aside from dying her hair, she hasn't undergone any cosmetic procedures. "Nothing. No Botox, no nothing," she says.

"The peroxide is the only toxic thing I do to my body. And I do have a boyfriend 19 years younger than myself," Mimi adds with a smile.

Cellupulse Treatment
Dr. Michelle Ware from the Los Feliz Med Spa in Los Angeles, California demonstrates the cellupulse treatment on Ilona.

Dr. Ware explains that the technology was originally used for sports injuries such as tendonitis, muscle tears, strains and pains, but patients noticed a welcome side effect. The machine emits acoustic waves that increase circulation in targeted areas of the skin. In turn, the skin's elasticity is increased, which reduces the appearance of cellulite.

Ear Infection Rescue

Ear infections are common in children and are often caused by fluid build up in the Eustachian tubes. When placed at the back of the ear, the Eardoc device emits vibrations that help open up the Eustachian tube and allows fluid to drain.

"Cellulite is a circulation problem, which will cause fat cells to swell," explains Dr. Ware. "The connective tissue between the fat cells will shrink and harden, and that creates that dimpling effect you see with cellulite."

Placenta Facials
EMK Placental Skin Care uses extract of human placentas in their skin care line. The placenta contains amino acids and stem cells, but plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon cautions that it's unclear how much of these properties actually penetrate the skin.

Shirodhara Massage
Martha and Leila from the Surya Spa in Pacific Palisades, California perform a Shirodhara massage on Sheila.

"This treatment involves organic, warm sesame oil poured slowly over the forehead, primarily focusing on the marma point, also known as the third eye, which is directly linked to the central nervous system," Leila explains. "This treatment is ideal for anxiety, stress; helps to release deep, embedded tension from the tissues."

Resounding Health

Watch how sound can help heal the body when Daniella, a certified sound healer, performs sound therapy on Gina.

Sound Therapy
Daniella, a certified sound healer, performs sound therapy with Tibetan bowls on Gina, 32, who feels her energy is running low. The healer explains that she focuses on her clients' energy centers and attunes to the sound frequencies of their problem areas.

"It's based on quantum physics, how everything in the universe is made of vibration," Daniella explains. "Your body is also in a state of constant vibration. When you're out of whack or you're unwell, your frequencies are imbalanced."

"This is one of those things that if it works for someone," Dr. Travis notes, "there's no down side. It's a neat concept."

Celebrity Look-Alike Sperm Donors
In a town captivated by celebrity, it's no surprise that women in Los Angeles would seek out sperm donors who look like their favorite stars. Scott Brown, communication director at California Cryobank (CCB) in Los Angeles, California, says that women can go to his clinic's Web site for the CCB Donor Look-a-Likes^TM program. The software links sperm donors to photos of the two or three celebrities the donors most closely resemble.

"You get these guys who on paper are great and look the same, but is he a Ben Affleck-type or a Zach Ephron-type?" Scott says. "It helps make the decision easier for people."

Alice, 33, was the first client to take advantage of the CCB Donor Look-a-Likes^TM program. She was diagnosed with breast cancer and told that chemotherapy would likely render her unable to reproduce. Alice chose to freeze her embryos and looked at 300 possible sperm donors.

"Once I got down to a handful of donors, it was a really tough decision," she says. "They were kind of sounding the same at that point; they were all great on paper."

Alice finally settled on a sperm donor who resembled actor Freddie Prinze Jr. Inspired by her experience, Alice started a non-profit organization, My Vision, to educate other breast cancer patients about fertility options.

Reusable Diapers
Reusable diapers are not a new concept, but Smartipants diapers deliver a new, easy and effective solution for diaper care. Pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears demonstrates how the Smartipants reusable diapers work. The best part? Instead of requiring 7,000 disposable diapers, the average baby needs only 24 Smartipants diapers up until the child is potty trained.

Dyson Air Multiplier Fan

Air MultiplierTM technology: An annular jet draws in surrounding air, amplifying it 15 times.
• No choppy air: No blades chopping the air means air flow is smooth with no unpleasant buffeting.
• Safe: No fast-spinning blades.
• Easy to clean: No awkward grilles or blades.
• Touch-tilt: Pivots on its own center of gravity, staying put without clamping.
• Dimmer-switch control: Precisely adjusts airflow power.
• Oscillation: One-touch for 90-degree rotation.

Moustaches vs. Cancer
Moustaches vs. Cancer is a two month moustache-a-thon fundraiser to help fight pediatric cancer.

Each participant solicits donations on behalf of his moustache, and all earnings go to the pediatric department at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.

Oral Health
Dentist Dr. Jamie Sands says that people should always brush their teeth for two minutes twice a day, floss twice a day, see their dentist regularly, and make sure to change their toothbrush at least four times a year.

"Get yourself a proper toothbrush," Dr. Sands says. "Investing in [an electrical toothbrush] is to your advantage. It actually removes more plaque than a manual toothbrush; the oscillating, rotating technology is going to do all the work. "

"If you develop gum disease, it can lead to things like heart disease and increased inflammation throughout your body," Dr. Travis adds. "Taking good care of your teeth and gums is essential."

Bone Mineral Density Test
A bone mineral density (BMD) test measures the density of calcium in your bones. Find out how the BMD test is performed and what you can do to keep your bones healthy and strong.

For more information about the products mentioned on this show, please go to Related Resources
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OAD 11/4/09

Ask Our Doctors: 50 Questions from 50 States

The Doctors go coast to coast to answer health questions from all 50 states!

Living Healthily

• A quartet of dancers from the MGM Grand's Crazy Horse Paris ask The Doctors for recommendations on how to stay in great shape.

• Kayla from Crawfordsville, Indiana is 23 years old and weighs more than 250 pounds. She is considering undergoing between getting gastric-bypass surgery or the lap-band surgery in Mexico, because it is less expensive. Is it safe?

Winter Health
• This will be my first winter in the "Last Frontier," and I'm curious about the difference between frostbite and frostnip. When should I worry? -- Colleen from Juneau, Alaska

E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork explains the difference between frostbite and frostnip.

• In a dry climate, can you get as dehydrated during the winter as you can during the summer? -- Carlos from Phoenix, Arizona

Dr. Travis explains why dehydration occurs and why you need to take precautions in the winter.

• What are some good foods to ward off winter health ailments? -- Michigan

Citrus fruits, probiotics, pumpkin, garlic, mushroom, broccoli, green tea, fish and blueberries can help fight winter sicknesses.

• Why does my psoriasis worsen in the winter? -- Rhode Island

Psoriasis, a common skin disorder that causes irritation and redness, can worsen in the winter because of the drier air and lower levels of exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays.

Quick Hits

From Minnesota, to Illinois to Georgia, The Doctors answer questions about snoring, migraines, body odor and more!

Vitamins

Are vitamins safe for children? What's the daily dose for adults? Get your answers here!

Hives
• Last year, right before finals, I got hives. I was on two different histamine blockers. Could it have been stress? -- Shayla from Wichita, Kansas

Dr. Lisa explains what may have caused Shayla's hives.

• Are hives contagious? -- Kentucky

No, hives, which are swollen and often itchy welts on the surface of the skin, are usually an allergic reaction, but even if they are caused by a virusl, they are still not contagious.

Pap Smears
• How often should women get pap smears? -- Arkansas

Women should get a pap smear every one to three years, depending on their age and medical history.

• Is there a male equivalent to a pap smear? -- Comedienne Kathy Griffin, from the red carpet in California

Yes there is, and Dr. Lisa shares the answer.

Breastfeeding
• My second daughter was born four weeks ago and has not gained any weight since she was discharged from the hospital. I'm breastfeeding her. Could my breast milk be deficient? - Stephanie from Cranford, New Jersey

Myth or Reality?

The Doctors play a game of Myth or Reality with questions from Oklahoma, Virginia, Oregon and Tennessee!

True or False?

The Doctors answer true or false questions from Washington, Maryland, Vermont and Iowa.

Most newborns will lose a few ounces right after birth, but it is important that they regain the lost weight within a week or, at longest, two weeks of age, pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears explains.

"Your baby is already four weeks old and hasn't regained [the weight she's lost since birth], and I'm worried about that," he says. "First off, you need to make sure your doctor is checking the baby. Make sure the baby looks OK, and then your doctor and maybe a lactation consultant can check your milk supply by pumping [the breasts] or weighing the baby before and after feeding, to see if you're making enough milk. If you aren't, we may want to supplement with a little formula, just to get the baby back up to birth weight, because it's really important that she does that to stay healthy."

• I have noticed that after breastfeeding my son, I had a dramatic decrease in breast volume. Now, when I finish breastfeeding my daughter, I have a feeling I'll have the same problem. Is there anything I can do to fix that without having breast implants? --Christina from Houston, Texas

Plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon explains Christina's options to restore her breasts.

Flu and Pneumonia
• Can you be a flu carrier and not get sick? -- Diane from Wilmington, Delaware

You can be a carrier of the flu virus without having any symptoms. E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork says that if you are not showing symptoms of the flu, chances are unlikely that you will pass it on to others.

Reduction or Implant?

• For uneven breasts, is reduction better than one implant? -- West Virginia

Choosing between a reduction and an implant depends on the desired size of the breast.
Sexual Health

• Can I have a sexually transmitted disease and not show any symptoms? -- South Dakota

Yes, including genital HPV and Chlamydia, which often show no visible signs, especially in women.
• Can the dog flu migrate to humans like the H1N1 virus? -- New York

H3N8 is an equine flu virus that has recently been found in dogs. It is very contagious -- dogs can catch it at dog parks and boarding kennels. The virus can live in food and water dishes. "The good news is this," Dr. Travis says. "Humans can't get it."

Five to eight percent of dogs will get a severe form of this flu, and older dogs and puppies can potentially die from it. Symptoms in dogs are similar to those of humans who get the seasonal flu: coughing, fever and loss of appetite. Breeds with pushed-in faces, such as pugs and bulldogs, are the most susceptible to the H3N8 virus.

• Is the pneumonia vaccine a one-time event? And, how effective is it? -- Phillip from Bismark, North Dakota

There are multiple versions of the pneumococcal vaccine. The one given to children, known as Prevnar or PCV7, requires a series of four doses be administered before the child is 5 years old. For adults, the vaccine is known as PPSV, and any adult over age 65 should get one dose of it. Additionally, people who have asthma, diabetes, HIV, immune issues or have had their spleen removed should get two doses, five years apart.

Sinuses
• [My 11-year-old son] is always stuffed up, and when he talks, he sounds like he has nose plugs on. Even when he blows his nose, it doesn't help. I am curious as to what causes this and what could be done to help him. -- Terri from Parker, Colorado

"It sounds like your son has rhinitis," Dr. Ordon says, "which is just an inflammation of the inside of the nose. What happens is that it gets congested, it over-stimulates the mucus glands [and causes] too much production of the normal nasal secretions."

Uncommon Cures You Need to Know

Community member Nicole2022 submitted a show idea on ProduceTheDoctors.com asking The Doctors to share home remedies for minor ailments. The Doctors invited editor-in-chief of Prevention, Liz Vaccariello, to share uncommon cures for common problems. But remember, these remedies are no substitute for seeing your doctor.

Win The Big Doctors Book of Home Remedies!

For more home remedies, check out The Big Doctors Book of Home Remedies: Quick Fixes, Clever Techniques, and Uncommon Cures to Get You Feeling Better Fast by the editors of Prevention.

• For a chance to win a copy, click here!

Pink Eye
If your child is suffering from conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, and wakes up with his or her eye crusted shut, try cleaning the affected area with a mixture of baby shampoo and warm water.

"You add one part baby shampoo to 10 parts water," Dr. Jim says. "This is mainly for the crust. You just stir it up [and wipe the crust away with a cotton ball]. The warm water kind of loosens the goop and then the shampoo cleans the eyelashes, because oftentimes the eyelashes themselves get a little infection in the base of them and that kind of helps solve both problems!"

Remember: After cleaning your child's eye, be sure to throw away the cotton ball and wash your hands well.

Beating Blisters
To pop or to not pop, that is the question when it comes to blisters.

Liz recommends leaving small blisters alone. But if it is a large, uncomfortable blister, consider seeing your doctor. If you decide to pop a large one, clean the area with rubbing alcohol and use a sterilized needle to poke a hole. After you puncture the sac, squeeze the fluid out while still leaving the skin over the blister intact.

"That's like nature's Band-Aid," Liz says.

Once the blister is empty of fluid, rub a steroid-free hemorrhoid cream, which is an anti-inflammatory, over the area to sooth the itching, or apply mouthwash to it, which has a cooling effect and helps dry out the blister.

Headache Help

Dr. Travis explains what causes most headaches and gives you easy tips to relieve the pain!

"The caveat I have to make here is that I have seen people opening up their own blisters and coming in with big-time infections," E.R. physician Dr. Travis says. "So, it's one of those things that, if you're going to do this on your own, I have to caution you to make sure it's absolutely sterile, because you're basically opening up an entry for bacteria to get into that blister. So you've just got to be forewarned that infections can occur."

Prevention Home Remedy Lab
Follow Dr. Travis and Liz into the Prevention Home Remedy Lab as they demonstrate simple ways to get rid of common problems.

• All-Natural, Anti-Aging Facial: See how a papaya-oatmeal facial can help exfoliate your skin and make you look younger!
• Cure for Smelly Feet: Find out what liquor can make smelly feet a thing of the past.
• Minimize Sweating: Learn the type of bath that can prevent sweating and keep body odor at bay.

Bye-Bye Acne
Twenty to 30 percent of adults have acne. For women, the condition is often caused by makeup-clogged pores. If a pimple appears, Dr. Ordon recommends soaking a chamomile teabag in warm water, then applying the teabag to the affected area for 15 minutes. The teabag works as a warm compress and contains flavonoids and bisabolol, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the pimple and reduce redness.

Dr. Ordon's Home Remedies

Join plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon as he whips up some of his favorite home health remedies in his kitchen!

"Women everywhere are going to thank you for that," Liz says with a smile.

Stubborn Splinter
Pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears says that if your little one has a splinter that's too small for tweezers, a piece of duct tape may be the answer. "You just put the tape over the splinter, and it sticks to it a little bit," he says. "Then you carefully peel it off, and the splinter comes right out!"

Vinegar's Health Benefits
Apple cider vinegar can enhance your health in a number of ways:

• Drink a capful to make your hiccups go away.
• Some studies have found that drinking 2 tablespoons before bed can lower blood-glucose levels by up to 6 percent.
• Drink a small amount to soothe heartburn.
• Apply to acne to reduce swelling and clear pores.

Life-Changing Medical Innovations

Is It a Boy or a Girl?

The Doctors executive producer Jay McGraw and his wife, Erica, find out whether they're having a boy or a girl! See the 4-D ultrasound performed live!

Smoking When Pregnant
Despite countless warnings, an estimated 20 percent of women continue to smoke while pregnant. Studies show that if a woman smokes during her pregnancy, her child is 20 percent more likely to develop psychotic episodes later in life.

"We absolutely know that smoking is harmful to the baby," OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson says.

Smoking when pregnant can cause:
• Growth retardation
• Preterm birth
• Pre-term delivery
• Low birth weight
• Perinatal mortality

"Smoking restricts blood flow to the uterus," pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears says. "So therefore, the baby is getting less blood and less nutrients."

Smoking cessation pharmaceuticals are available to women before and during pregnancy. "It's an addiction just like alcoholism," Dr. Lisa adds. "The best thing to do is quit before you get pregnant. Or quit, period."

Stem Cell Breast Implants
The latest in stem cell research could add inches to a woman's bust line. The procedure would use a woman's own fat and stem cells to augment her breasts.

"This will be the next, new frontier," says plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon. "You actually can grow breast tissue, or virtually any organ."

Bright Smile
The Icon treatment, a revolutionary new dental system, promises to eliminate unsightly teeth discolorations and restore pearly whites. Cosmetic dentist Dr. Thomas Connelly explains that white spots are actually the beginnings of a cavity.

"What we can do now with these white spots is intervene early," Dr. Connelly says. "And not have to cut away tooth structure later on; and stop these cavities from progressing."

Dr. Connelly performs the drill-free, pain-free Icon treatment on Allison.

Bright Eyes
Ophthalmologist Dr. Brian Boxer-Wachler performs the I-Brite procedure on Daphne to remove unsightly spots in the whites of her eyes.

Dr. Boxer-Wachler, who developed the procedure, explains that he removes the discolored membrane of the eye, which will then regenerate a crystal-clear, bright membrane.

"The I-Brite procedure is revolutionary because it's the first time there's a permanent cure for red eyes, or yellowing or brown spots on the eye," Dr. Boxer-Wachler says.

Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a painful, degenerative joint condition. Currently, hylauronic acid can be injected into the affected joints to act as a shock absorber. Scientists are working on future stem cell treatments for osteoarthritis, but in the meantime, doctors recommend low-impact exercises like cycling and swimming to help alleviate discomfort.

Migraines
Dr. Travis explains that migraine headaches are thought to be caused by the dilation of blood vessels in the brain. The dilated vessels pull on nerve receptors located near the blood vessels, causing pain signals to be sent to the brain. The result is a terrible, throbbing headache with a variety of symptoms. Migraines are difficult to treat, as symptoms and triggers vary among individuals.

A new treatment called Levadex, is still in clinical trials and not yet approved by the FDA, but shows a great deal of promise. Levadex is reformulated from a drug called DHE 45 and works similarly to an asthma inhaler. Once inhaled, the drug provides rapid and sustained pain relief.

More on treating migraines.

Breakthrough Back Surgery
A revolutionary back surgery may greatly eliminate pain and radically reduce recovery time for patients. Neurosurgeon Dr. Justin Paquette calls in from the Beverly Hills Institute for Spinal Disorders and Orthopedic Center to describe the AxiaLIF surgery.

Keloid Scar Tissue
A keloid is essentially an overgrowth of scar tissue. "In a nutshell, keloids are scars gone wild," Dr. Ordon says.

Jamee, 22, developed keloid scars on her ear after she had her ears pierced. Plastic surgeon Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian excises the growths as Dr. Ordon explains how keloid scars form.

For more information about the products mentioned on this show, please go to Related Resources
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OAD 10/30/09

Women’s Biggest Body Complaints Solved!

Hair Treatments

Living Proof Hair Labs developed No Frizz, a hair care product that addresses problem hair on a molecular level. See the results!

Measure Up
A new measurement of the female anatomy may mean the difference between "Oh ..." and "OH!"

"Research suggests that the clitoral-vaginal distance, and I'm just reporting what I've read," E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork says, "is that the optimal distance is 2.5 centimeters [apart] to have an orgasm."

If the distance between the hood of the clitoris and the vaginal opening is shorter than 2.5 centimeters, the movement of the penis will create more friction and increase the chance of orgasm.

"So many women think they can have orgasms just by sex alone," OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson says. "Seventy-five percent of women, most women, do not have orgasm by [vaginal] sex alone.

"People ask, ‘Which one is better: a clitoral orgasm or a vaginal orgasm?" Dr. Lisa states. "It really doesn't matter. An orgasm is an orgasm is an orgasm. We have to be more sex-positive, because women who are more positive about their bodies are going to have more orgasms.

"Only seven percent of women have orgasm from vaginal penetration, so guess how many people are faking it?" Dr. Lisa continues. "That means women, you need to communicate more, be more sex-positive. And find out what buttons to push, guys!"

Problem Skin
Fifty percent of women suffer from adult acne, a condition that can be physically uncomfortable as well as cause insecurity and self-consciousness. Dermatologist Dr. Tess Mauricio performs the latest skin rejuvenation procedure, photodynamic therapy (PDT), on 36-year-old Cari, a longtime acne sufferer. See the results!

Protect your skin! Dr. Mauricio says that 90 percent of aging is caused by the sun, so be sure to slather on the sunscreen, and wear a hat when out in the sun.

Crow's Feet
Are you concerned about crow's feet around your eyes? Does it look like a few feet have turned into a battalion of boots? Plastic surgeon Dr. Bruce Katz has a fractional CO2 laser treatment that can erase fine lines and restore youthful looking skin.

"What it does is actually tighten the eyelid skin, takes away crow's feet, elevates the eyebrow and gives the eye a more wide-open appearance," Dr. Katz explains.

Dr. Katz performs the non-invasive eyelift procedure on Lori, 39, onstage. The procedure needs to be repeated three to five times every two weeks and promises minimal recovery time.

Read Dr. Ordon's blog about how to treat crow's feet.

Surgical Options for Derrieres

Butt Implants Explained

Columbian Hi-Def Butt Lift Procedure

Read Dr. Ordon's blog about butt implants

Troublesome Thighs
Many women complain of excess fat around the hips, buttocks and thighs, often called thunder thighs or saddlebags. Some women are genetically predisposed to develop a certain leg shape, but doing cardio exercises is the best first step to tone troublesome areas.

"Hormones cause [women] to get fat in certain areas, and that's one of them," Dr. Lisa says. "The fat can be really hard to get rid of, and it just shows up after you've gained a little weight from pregnancy or just not exercising for a little while. It's just a stubborn area!"

Plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon proffers that liposuction is a sound solution for problem thighs, but for those who don't want to go under the knife, Hello! Skinny Jeans.
promises to make their wearer look a size smaller in less than 60 seconds!

Booty Talk
Tone your tush with celebrity trainer David Kirsch, author of The Butt Book.

The trainer demonstrates some of his signature booty sculpting exercises.

According to David, rear ends can be classified into four categories:

Butt Types:
Apple - bigger in the middle, big all over
Pear - small up top, bigger down below
Banana - has hips, but rear is flat as a pancake
String bean - skinny, no hips and no booty

Boost Your Bust
Dr. Ordon explains that breast tissue is comprised primarily of glands and fat. The muscle sits below the bulk of the breast, so no amount of exercising can help lift or shape the bosom. Once breast tissue sags, surgery is the only permanent option to restore fullness.

Dr. Lisa advises that the best way to prevent sagging is to wear a well-fitted bra.

Learn more about finding your best bra.

A quick and easy way to add volume and lift to your bust is to use Bring It Up sticky pads. The pads lift the breast tissue and reposition the nipple for a fuller, more youthful appearance.

For more information about the products mentioned on this show, please go to Related Resources
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OAD 10/29/09

Life-Saving Medicine with Sanjay Gupta

Cheating Death

To purchase a copy of Dr. Sanjay Gupta's new book, Cheating Death, click here!

Dr. Sanjay Gupta, CNN's chief medical correspondent and author of Cheating Death, joins The Doctors to discuss life-saving medicine!

Cheating Death
On September 14, 2002, 60-year-old Bob collapsed while refereeing a high school football game. His heart stopped for two-and-a-half minutes before he was ultimately revived and brought back to life.

Bob recounts his near-death experience. "It was very peaceful. It was very serene," he says. "[It was] extremely bright, and, some folks call it a tunnel, but for me it was more like a halo coming into focus. Did I have an out-of-body experience? I don't know. I was watching the paramedic work on me, and he was very close working on me. I was watching him, yet he didn't acknowledge me, and I was thinking that if I opened my eyes, that was a good sign, but he didn't acknowledge me, so what was going on here?

"And then I remembered our grandson, who was with me at the time, 9-year-old Alex," Bob continues, "I had a choice, that way or this way. And Alex needed me and I started yelling Alex's name, and that's all I remember."

Moment of Death

E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork explains what happens to your body when you die, and The Doctors and Dr. Gupta discuss three of your most vital organs.

• Dr. Gupta goes inside one woman's near-death experience.

Dr. Gupta wrote the book Cheating Death and says that science can explain some of the sensations from near-death experiences. "Some have said that as the blood [flow] starts to diminish to the brain, the retina, the back of the eye is one of the first things that is affected, and that controls your peripheral vision," Dr. Gupta says. "So you start to lose that peripheral vision and people will see a tunnel, the bright light, sort of for the same reason."

But, Dr. Gupta concedes that after talking with Bob and others who have had near-death experiences, some things cannot be explained.

"It's sort of that perfect intersection of science and spirituality that I was just absolutely fascinated by," Dr. Gupta says.

Dr. Travis and Dr. Gupta demonstrate the Invos Oximeter, which measures oxygen saturation in the brain. See how a defibrillator can save your life.

Freezing Time
If you go into cardiac arrest, can hypothermia actually save your life? Dr. Gupta tells the story of how being in a hypothermic state actually kept one woman alive.

CPR

Dr. Travis and Dr. Gupta demonstrate the latest in life-saving CPR techniques.

"She is doing great [now]," Dr. Gupta says. "What is most amazing about her is that she is now a practicing physician in the same hospital where she was once declared dead."

Pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears tries on the CoolBlue body suit, which cools the body by mimicking hypothermia, which decreases the body's demand for oxygen. Cooling the body can delay death and save lives.

"The thing about it that's amazing," Dr. Gupta says, "is that if you simply cool somebody down after a cardiac arrest, and you do it quickly, the chance of survival goes up by almost 500 percent. Cardiac arrest is still the biggest killer of men and women in this country. These things make a huge difference."

H1N1 Virus
President Obama has declared the H1N1 flu outbreak a national emergency, and Dr. Gupta has first-hand experience of what the virus can do. Not only has the medical correspondent been covering the H1N1 flu story for CNN, he also contracted the virus.

"It's interesting, because I don't get sick very often," Dr. Gupta says. "But I remember the cough. That was probably the most memorable thing about this. This is one of those examples where I think doctors are the worst patients, because I thought it was anything but H1N1 when I first got sick. When I had that high fever and I got really lightheaded, that's when I got checked out and got tested."

Getting the H1N1 flu vaccination is important to prevent contracting the virus in the first place. Find out everything you need to know about the H1N1 and seasonal flu vaccines.

Pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears blogs about the H1N1 vaccine.

The vaccine is recommended for the following people:
• Pregnant women
• Anyone with underlying, chronic illnesses (see list below)
• Caregivers for infants under 6 months
• Healthcare workers
• Children ages 6 months to 24 years old.

Chronic health conditions:
Certain medical conditions place people at greater risk for the flu, so if you have any of the following conditions, consider getting both the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccine:
• Asthma
• Diabetes
• Heart or lung disease
• Kidney disease
• HIV
• Morbid obesity
• Sickle-cell anemia
• Cerebral palsy
• Muscular dystrophy

The Doctors and Dr. Gupta say that the vaccine should be mandatory for healthcare workers. "It's not just about the person getting the shot," Dr. Gupta says. "It's also about all the patients that we see and treat."

Because he has had the disease, Dr. Gupta no longer needs the vaccination, but he advocates that others do get it. "It's a tough way to get vaccinated," he says. "I would much rather have had the shot. That was a couple of miserable days."

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OAD 10/28/09

Ask Our Doctors: Why Does it Smell?

Smelly Burps

Stinky Ears

Jenni says her 11-month-old son, Xavier's, ears give off a foul odor. Dr. Jim gives Xavier an ear exam to determine the cause of the smell.

• Dr. Ordon demonstrates why ear infections cause ears to smell.

If your burps often smell foul and rotten, you may be experiencing sulfur burps, which are caused by hydrogen sulfide, a gas emitted by sulfur-containing proteins in certain foods.

"It's the same thing that happens [with flatulence] when you have one of those bad days where you have that rotten-egg smell," E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork says. "That's hydrogen sulfide doing its damage."

For some people, the breakdown of certain proteins can cause hydrogen sulfide and bacteria buildup in the intestines. Poultry, red meat, dairy, eggs, grains and certain fruits and vegetables, such as bananas, watermelon, avocado, asparagus, broccoli, cabbage, garlic and onions all cause hydrogen sulfide buildup. Try removing these foods from your diet for a period of time to reduce the smell of sulfur emitted from both burps and flatulence. Drinking Pepto Bismol or other stomach-soothing products can also help reduce the hydrogen sulfide, but be careful because it can cause changes in your stool.

If your sulfur burps continue, talk with your doctor, because it could be a sign of a gastrointestinal disease.

Sweat Problem
Amber, 32, says she sweats so heavily at night that it gives off a strange odor and stains her sheets and shirts. Her husband complains that the odor is reminiscent of cat urine -- and they don't even have a cat!

Why Sweat Smells

Dr. Travis demonstrates what happens when we sweat and why it often gives off a foul odor.

• Dr. Ordon outlines options available to regulate excessive sweating.

Dr. Travis says that the stench probably is similar to ammonia, which is caused by urea, a byproduct of amino acids and proteins broken down in the body. If urea builds up in your system, it can come out through your sweat pores and cause the ammonia-like smell. Urea is acidic, which is the reason for the stains on Amber's sheets and shirts.

Your kidneys filter toxins and waste. If your kidneys are not functioning properly, urea, the kidneys' waste product, can build up and cause serious complications.

A kidney issue is not the only cause of this problem. "The most common reason is people are eating too much protein," Dr. Travis says. "One of the things you want to do is make sure you are getting enough carbohydrates and drink plenty of fluids."

If changing your diet does not work, see your doctor. He or she may recommend a blood urea nitrogen test to determine the cause of the problem.

Fishy Odor Down Below

Umbilical Cord Smell

Dr. Jim explains why your newborn's cut umbilical cord may give off an odor, and he demonstrates how to keep the area around the nub clean.

Megan is six months pregnant and says that she notices a fishy odor after she has intercourse with her husband. She asks The Doctors if she should be concerned.

"This is pretty common," Dr. Lisa says. "It's called bacterial vaginosis. You should not have a fishy odor down there. What happens is that the magical vaginal ecosystem is imbalanced. This can happen because of pregnancy. This can happen because of having intercourse."

The vagina tends to be acidic, and when semen enters the vaginal cavity, it can change the pH. "That changes [the environment] and releases something called amines, which give off a fishy odor."

One in five women will get bacterial vaginosis at some point during pregnancy. The disorder can cause pre-term labor, miscarriage, low birth weight and a premature rupture of membranes. "So it is essential that it be treated during pregnancy," Dr. Lisa says. "Your doctor will just do a vaginal swab to determine this and treat you with safe antibiotics for pregnancy, and that's the end of it."

Best Ways to Fight the Flu
The onset of fall and winter usually means colder weather and more flu infections.

Good Germs

Dr. Jim explains why some germs can actually be your friends.

"Everyone's justifiably concerned about the flu," says Liz Vaccariello, editor-in-chief of Prevention magazine. "As far as prevention is concerned, doing some of the easiest things you can, like washing your hands often and well, that's the easiest thing that you can do, rather than going out and buying a humidifier for your room, which is going to cost a lot of money."

Liz recommends washing your hands to the tune of the song "Happy Birthday" so you can eliminate as many germs as possible. Plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon suggests coughing and sneezing into your sleeve or handkerchief so you don't get germs on your hands.

"I use creative barriers," Liz says. "I use a paper towel when I'm touching doorknobs in the bathroom. And at ATM machines, I use my ATM card to punch the numbers rather than with my finger."

Another way to prevent the flu is to get the flu vaccination. Find out more about the flu and the H1N1 virus.

Prevention's Health Hearsay: Can standing near a microwave when it's on cause cancer? Liz Vaccariello has the answer!

TBD

to come

Everything You Need to Know about The Flu

Seasonal and H1N1 Flu Overview
President Obama has declared the H1N1 flu outbreak a national emergency.

Dr. Anne Schuchat, Assistant Surgeon General of the United States and director of the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases, joins The Doctors via satellite from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia to provide the most up-to-date information about the seasonal and H1N1 flu virus.

"We're seeing a lot of flu all around the country," Dr. Schuchat reports, "especially for this time of year; unprecedented levels of disease for this time of year. Of course, that's because this is a strain that people haven't seen before, so all of us really are susceptible."

Eighty-six children have died so far from H1N1 flu in America alone. "The numbers, unfortunately, continue to climb," Dr. Schuchat continues. "In most seasons, we only have about 40 or 50 kids who die from flu; we don't know how many more will, and of course, we're doing as much as we can to keep that number down."

H1N1 Myths

Assistant Surgeon General Dr. Anne Schuchat dispels the most rampant myths about the H1N1 flu virus.

Inside the CDC
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is the first line of defense against infections and chronic diseases in the United States. E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork goes inside the CDC in Atlanta, Georgia for the latest H1N1 update from the director of the CDC, Dr. Thomas Frieden.

H1N1 Facts
• 88 percent of H1N1 flu deaths have occurred in people under the age of 65
• 53 percent of H1N1 hospitalizations are people under the age of 25
• A disproportionate amount of pregnant women are affected by H1N1
• H1N1 flu can lead to viral or bacterial pneumonia, which can be fatal
• A flu virus can survive on surfaces up to eight hours, which is why it's so important to wash your hands often

"There's no way to predict who is going to get a severe case and who is not," pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears says.

"Don't panic," Dr. Travis says. "The reason we're making this sound so serious is because kids are dying, pregnant women are dying, and that is why we urge you to talk with your doctor about getting the vaccine. We can prevent all these deaths if people get vaccinated."

Flu Vaccine 411

Everything you need to know about seasonal and H1N1 vaccines.

Who's at Risk for the H1N1 Virus?
• Children ages 6 months to 24 years
• Pregnant wome
• Health care workers
• People with chronic health conditions

Chronic Health Conditions:
Certain medical conditions place people at greater risk for the flu, so if you have any of the following conditions, consider getting both the seasonal and H1N1 flu vaccine:
• Asthma
• Diabetes
• Heart or lung disease
• Kidney disease
• HIV
• Morbid obesity
• Sickle-cell anemia
• Cerebral palsy
• Muscular dystrophy

Symptoms of Seasonal and H1N1 Flus
Both seasonal influenza and the H1N1 flu can have the following symptoms:
• Fever
• Headache
• Fatigue

High-Tech H1N1 Treatments

San Antonio affiliate WOAI reports on the latest treatment for patients with severe H1N1 flu infection.

• Dry cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches and pains

In addition, the H1N1 flu often has:
• Stomach upset
• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Flu Treatments
Tamiflu and Relenza, extremely effective antiviral drugs, can be taken to reduce the duration and severity of the disease. The medications are most successful when taken within 48 hours of the onset of the flu, and symptoms often resolve in 24 hours.

Many people will recover from a flu without treatment, but if you or a loved one seem to be get better and then get worse, be sure to seek immediate medical treatment. This turn of events could indicate a secondary infection such as pneumonia.

Caution: Some unscrupulous characters will try to sell Tamiflu and other medicines purported to treat the H1N1 flu over the Internet. There is no way to verify the safety and validity of these products. Only take medicine prescribed and given to you by your doctor.

If your child has a confirmed case of the H1N1 virus, he or she will not need to get the vaccine, as his or her body will already be producing antibodies to combat the virus.

If you're breastfeeding and get sick, continue nursing, Dr. Jim advises. "You're going to produce antibodies against that illness, and you're going to give those antibodies to your baby, which will help the baby fight the illness too," he adds.

Caution: Never give aspirin to children.

For more information on flu warning signs, visit www.flu.gov.

Pregnant Women and the Flu
"You're at risk [for flu] when you're pregnant because your immune system is supporting two people," OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson explains. "Your cardiovascular system is overloaded, and the blood volume is increased. Pregnant women need to be treated right away with anti-viral medications; they're not going to hurt the baby. We need to be very aggressive with pregnant women and the swine flu."

"It's not a new vaccine," Dr. Schuchat adds. "It's just a different strain being put in the [traditional] vaccine. We think that it should really protect pregnant women, who, unfortunately, have been getting very sick from the virus."

Watch a special report from affiliate station KHOU-TV in Houston, Texas on pregnant women and the H1N1 vaccine.

Learn more about pregnancy and the flu vaccine.

Steps to Prevent Getting the Flu
• Wash your hands often
• Use anti-bacterial wipes and gels with 60 percent alcohol content
• Don't touch your eyes, mouth or nose unless your hands are clean
• Take vitamins
• Eat healthily
• Exercise
• Keep your sugar intake below 100 grams per day (approximately two sodas' worth) and minimize alcohol consumption. Excessive sugar and alcohol intake can suppress and impede your immune system.

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OAD 10/26/09

How to Take Charge of Your Health

Salt: The Silent Killer
Do you know how much salt you are consuming? The recommended daily allowance is less than 2,400mg of sodium, slightly more than one teaspoon. But on average, most Americans consume more than 4,000mg each day. Excess salt in your diet can lead to numerous health problems, such as hypertension, heart disease and stroke.

The Salt We Eat

The amount of sodium contained in some of your favorite foods may just surprise you:

• Small bag of regular potato chips: 180mg
• One cup of regular cottage cheese: up to 851mg
• Two strips of bacon: 146mg
• One cup of regular chocolate pudding: 840mg
• One slice of pepperoni pizza: 2,132mg

"If you get different kinds [of potato chips] that have all the sauce on them and everything, then that's not necessarily going to be quite [as little sodium]," OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson says. "But if you get the regular bag of chips, your sodium [intake] will be less. There is a difference between calories, and healthy and sodium content. You have to take all of these different factors together."

"This just goes to show just how much salt is put in these processed foods for taste," plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon says.

If you want a healthy, low-sodium snack, E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork recommends low-sodium cottage cheese.

Lyssie and Tammy Lakatos, also known as The Nutrition Twins, are registered dieticians and authors of The Secret to Skinny. Their work focus on the negative effects of too much sodium in the body. "What is really interesting to us," Lyssie says, "is that all of us in the health field have heard about sodium being so bad for our health, but we, as registered dieticians, started getting bombarded with information that it actually made us fat."

Tammy explains that sodium makes the fat cells more dense and able to hold more fat, causing a person to be hungrier, thirstier and have increased cravings.

"And, it increases insulin resistance," Lyssie adds. "So that combination for someone who is looking to lose weight spells double trouble."

"Salt is absolutely necessary," Dr. Travis says. "Sodium is needed by each and every cell in your body, just like healthy fats are needed, healthy carbohydrates. So you don't need to get rid of sodium altogether, you just need to decrease the amount of it."

Adopt a Dog

These playful pooches are looking for a nice home. If you've thought about adding a dog to your live, consider adopting one of these abandoned dogs.

Cornucopia
Female
Shepherd mix
Estimated date of birth: May 1, 2009

Parsley
Female
Foxhound mix
Estimated date of birth: April 1, 2008

Parker
Male
Catahoula Leopard mix
Estimated date of birth: May 14, 2008

Holly
Female
Basenji mix
Estimated date of birth: Dec. 1, 2005

For more information on adopting these, or other dogs, visit the Helen Woodward Animal Center!

Pet-Healthy Life
Not only are dogs fun to have around, they can also improve your health. The Doctors are dog owners and advocate having a furry friend, not just because they are cute, but for the health benefits as well. Owning a dog has been shown to calm nerves and lower blood pressure.

"Even for kids, pets can have benefits," pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears says. "Kids who have dogs have lower levels of asthma and allergies. And of course, it's great exercise, getting out and walking your dog, running around the yard."

The Helen Woodward Animal Center, the Iams pet food company and 3,500 animal welfare organizations around the world have joined together to help get animals adopted. The groups are attempting to find a home for 1.5 million orphaned pets by January 4 through the Iams Home 4 the Holidays adoption program. Every pet adopted through the program will go home with a starter kit that includes training tips, pet nutrition information and more!

Choking Concerns
Katherine from Lewiston, Maine fed her 9-month-old a raisin and her baby nearly choked. She wrote The Doctors to find out what foods are safe for babies to eat. Dr. Sears explains which foods are choking hazards, which are safe and what to do if your baby begins to choke.

Lumpy-Bumpy Breasts
Candace, 38, has a number of soft, moveable lumps in her breasts that tend to swell and hurt more around her period. She has a history of breast cancer in her family and asks The Doctors if she should be worried.

"Basically, it's fibrocystic changes," Dr. Lisa says. "The lumpy-bumpy breast, that's what we like to call it as gynecologists, they're not definite masses. They're more like ridges. They're more two-dimensional, as opposed to three-dimensional. The key is that they are cyclical. They go with the [menstrual] cyclical changes. You get more tenderness right before the period. So many women are affected by this.

"But you should be concerned because you do have a family history, so you do want to do your breast exam, like you're doing," Dr. Lisa adds. "If you feel something like a pea, grape or M&M - that's three-dimensional -that's something you want to get a mammogram, an ultrasound, maybe a breast biopsy or aspiration, to see if it's benign or not."

Since a fibrocystic breast is more dense and difficult to read on a mammogram than a normal breast, a breast MRI may be needed to check for signs of cancer.

The New Botox?
Jennifer's 35^th birthday is fast approaching, and she is looking for a skin pick-me-up, since sun damage has caused wrinkles to appear around her eyes and forehead. She heard about Dysport, a new alternative to Botox, and wants to know the difference between the two.

"There's a new kid on the block," Dr. Ordon says. "Botox now has a competitor, and I think it's a healthy, friendly competition. Dysport is basically the same product, botulinum toxin A, which blocks the transmission of nerves. It prevents you from being able to contract your muscles, and in turn, stops wrinkles. They claim that [Dysport] is less painful to use, and its onset is quicker."

Jennifer is pleased with the results of her Dysport injections. "I absolutely love it," she says. "I look like I feel. People always tell me that I look young, and all I would see is my grandmother's forehead when I would look at myself. The lines have gone away, I can't even scrunch my forehead, and the crow's feet are gone."

Dr. Ordon says that both Dysport and Botox are efficient products, and people can respond differently to each, so you should consult with your doctor.

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OAD 10/23/09

The Best and Worst for Your Body

Bras for Every Body

Bra fittings are essential, and changing your bra can change your life. See which one is best for you!

Cookie Dough Dangers
When whipping up a delicious batch of cookies, baking tradition dictates licking the batter off the spoon. But a recent spate of E. coli-contaminated cookie dough has people rethinking this culinary custom.

"This is very uncommon," E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork says, "but if you want cookie dough, stick to cookie dough ice cream."

Acetaminophen
Common over-the-counter pain relievers may have toxic and even fatal side effects. Acetaminophen overdose is the leading cause of liver failure in the United States, and health officials are considering lowering recommended dosage amounts of the popular pain reliever.

"You should never have more than 4 grams, or 4000 mg, [of Acetaminophen] a day, but in some cases, that may even be too much," Dr. Travis says. "People are showing signs of liver failure at lower doses."

When used properly, acetaminophen is a safe and effective drug. Acetaminophen overdoses occur because people often don't realize that the substance is in a variety of medications that they take. To avoid problems, check the ingredients of your prescription and over-the-counter medications, and be cognizant of the amounts you consume.

Best Fast-Food Options
Jackie, a busy mother of five, confesses that she and her kids are fast-food junkies. Like many American families, they turn to junk food because it's quick, convenient and readily available. But, most of the meals are packed with calories, fat and sodium. Next time you step up to the counter at your favorite fast-food joint, choose these healthier alternatives!

KFC
Original Recipe Chicken Breast (without skin or breading) with Corn on The Cob and Green Beans
240 calories
2.5 grams of fat

Taco Bell
Fresco Steak Burrito Supreme
330 calories
8 grams of fat

Wendy's
Mandarin Chicken Salad with crispy noodles and oriental sesame dressing
420 calories
14.5 grams of fat

McDonald's
Egg McMuffin
300 calories
12 grams of fat

Best Way to Prevent a Bladder Infection
Blood, water and toxins are filtered through the kidneys and then travel through the ureters to the bladder. If bacteria get into the bladder, they irritate the lining, causing a bladder infection, also known as cystitis.

"A bladder infection is not going to go away on its own," OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson says. "If you've had one for 24 hours or more, see your doctor and get some antibiotics."

Tips to Prevent a Bladder Infection:
• Drink lots of water
• Drink cranberry juice, as it can prevent bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall
• Urinate directly after intercourse
• Wear underwear that allows the vagina to breathe
• Wipe from front to back
• Keep the area clean

Best Diet
The best diet is one that includes 50 percent good carbohydrates, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains; 30 percent protein, such as fish or meat; and 20 percent good fat such as olive oil. Stay away from the so-called bad carbohydrates: sugars, refined grains and starches.

Best Treatment for a Scratched Eye
Dust, dirt and debris can get into the eye and scratch the cornea, causing a corneal abrasion.

"Much like cutting your skin, you're literally cutting the membrane of the eye," Dr. Travis says. "It's very painful. And just like your skin, most corneal abrasions will heal."

If you get something in your eye, rinse it with saline solution. Make sure to remove the offending foreign object, and if you suspect your cornea is damaged, be sure to seek medical care. A doctor will prescribe antibiotics to stave off infection and can perform fluorescent staining, a procedure that identifies the location of the cut in order to treat it.

Best Fever Medication
"Never give aspirin to children," says pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears, "especially if they have a fever. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are great, but never aspirin." Naproxen sodium, the active ingredient in Aleve, should only be taken by children over the age of 13. "It's usually used for more serious conditions," Dr. Jim adds.

Best Way to Prevent Getting and Spreading the Flu
• Sneeze or cough into a tissue or your elbow
• Wash your hands frequently
• Eat a healthy diet chock full of fruits and vegetables
• Exercise three to four times a week
• Get at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night
• Get a flu shot

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OAD 10/22/09

Total Body Repair

Iraq Star: A New Life
While on duty in Iraq, Randy, 23, lost his right eye and part of his right leg as a result of a bomb explosion.

"I was driving down a main road in Iraq when our truck got hit by an IED [improvised explosive device], and it sent shrapnel to [my] face and severed my leg," Randy says. "Every day I wake up thinking I'm waking up from a nightmare."

The Dr. Phil Show surprised Randy with the news that the Iraq Star Foundation and oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Michael Groth will give him the reconstructive surgery needed to repair his eye. The Iraq Star Foundation is a non-profit foundation dedicated to providing necessary reconstructive surgeries to assist war veterans recovering from physical and mental injuries.

Dr. Groth describes the intricate surgery, which entails replacing the volume in the eye's orbit and inserting a life-like artificial eye implant. Go inside the operating room with Dr. Groth and plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon to see the amazing procedure.

A New Eye

Doctors constructed an artificial eyeball to match Randy's other eye. See the amazing results of his eye reconstruction and how Randy is doing now.

• Make a $10 donation to Iraq Star and receive an HONOR BACK camouflage wristband.

"Reconstructing a lost eye is one of the greatest challenges we have as plastic surgeons," Dr. Groth says. "Randy was missing most of his upper lid, half of his lower lid, the entire eyeball and most of the muscles around the eye."

"I feel great!" Randy says. "Words can't even really explain how good I feel now. My comfort zone of going out in front of people [is much greater]. Before Dr. Groth and the surgeries, there was no way that I would come up here in front of people, let alone strangers. It's given me strength and courage to finally come out again, and it's just amazing."

Laser Bra Surgery
Meredith, 29, has experienced health problems, such as severe back pain, due to her size E chest.

To help alleviate her pain, plastic surgeon Dr. David Stoker performs a laser bra surgery. The procedure creates an internal brassiere made from excess skin and preserves and maintains the blood supply to the nipple and areola so Meredith will have nipple sensation and be able to breastfeed in the future.

Watch Dr. Stoker perform Meredith's procedure.

Menstrual Cycle

OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson describes a woman's normal menstrual cycle and explains why it can be irregular.

Removing Shrapnel
Rich, the executive in charge of The Doctors, is a Vietnam veteran and has shrapnel embedded in his leg from a grenade attack that occurred in 1968. Even though most of the debris was removed, recently pieces of metal have resurfaced to the top of his skin.

"It's been visible for a couple of years, and then it just kept getting closer to the surface, to the point where it was irritating me if I touched it or slept on my right side," Rich says.

"Most foreign bodies, whether it's a small splinter, a piece of wood, or in Rich's case, shrapnel, and even bullets a lot of times, we'll leave those in the patient," E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork says. "Your body will form inflammation around that foreign body and nothing happens. But in some cases, if something gets under your skin, and you see redness, it's painful, it's irritated or if any sort of puss comes out of it, then you've got to worry that it's infected, and it needs to come out under professional guidance."

Watch Dr. Ordon and fellow plastic surgeon Dr. Ritu Chopra remove the last pieces of shrapnel from Rich's leg.

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OAD 10/21/09

Ask Our Doctors: After Dark

Sleep Solutions

Sleep specialist Dr. Michael J. Breus shares the best treatments for jetlag, insomnia and sleep disorders.

Sex Mistakes
Sex mistakes you didn't know you were making!

1. Racing through sex.
Slow down! Take your time and rediscover your partner's body.

2. Having sex at the same time, in the same place.
Change it up! Try a different location, plan a romantic rendezvous.

3. Having predictable foreplay.
OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson says, "It's about getting a woman to the ultimate O. There are a lot of things that lead up to it and a lot of buttons, and what you want to do is find out where all her buttons are!"

4. Not being playful in the bedroom.
"You have to laugh in the bedroom," plastic surgeon Dr. Ordon notes with a smile.

5. Having sex during or after you watch TV.
Quite a few sleep studies indicate that the bedroom should be reserved for sex and sleeping only!

6. Not having enough physical contact.Physical touch and affection are critical for a healthy relationship, so reach out and give your honey a squeeze!

Study Smart
College students are notorious for pulling all-nighters to cram for tests, often turning to stimulants to fuel their study sessions. One such stimulant is caffeine, but is it safe in tablet form?

E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork says that you may retain more information with a little bit of caffeine in your system, but each pill contains 200 mg of caffeine, which is more than a double espresso. Consuming caffeine late at night can disrupt your sleep schedule. A message to college students: all-nighters don't work.

"During sleep, your brain processes all that information you've been studying," Dr. Travis says. Without sleep, you will not retain the information. It's a waste of time to try to stay up."

Dining in the Dark

Can dining in the dark promote weight loss? Alexis and Shane give new meaning to a blind date ... watch their experience in infrared!

Study Tips:
• Have a maximum of 300mg of caffeine per day, preferably in the morning
• Stay hydrated
• Exercise
• Get lots of sleep
• Take breaks -- get up, walk around and get some fresh air
• Eat a light dinner before a night of studying
• Eat healthy protein snacks
• Minimize sugar intake

If you have a loved one in college, surprise them with a Box-O-Box care package!

Hangover Help
There isn't a cure for hangovers, but the best remedy for over-indulging is prevention. Dr. Travis suggests always drinking one glass of water for every alcoholic beverage. Drink slowly, choose your drinks wisely and make sure you have food in your system before a night out.

Dr. Ordon suggests taking a multi-vitamin the morning before a big night out, eating a banana for extra potassium and popping 200 to 400mg of ibuprofen before bedtime.

Oxygen bars are touted as the latest hangover remedy in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Doctors sidle up to an oxygen bar with Lauren, who is heading to Vegas for a bachelorette party, to test it out.

Night Sweats

OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson explains night sweats and how to treat them.

Nighttime Fevers
Body temperature increases at night around dinnertime, regardless of whether you have a fever. When you do have a fever, time in the day can exacerbate the symptoms.

"Kids, especially, have problems at night with croup, ear infections and runny noses, also because they're [lying] horizontally," pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears explains. "It's normal that the fever would go up a little bit at night. Just treat it with the normal fever precautions -- a little Tylenol or Motrin every four to six hours."

Night Blindness
If you're having trouble seeing at night, be sure to book an appointment with a qualified eye doctor as quickly as possible. Ophthalmologist Dr. Roger Steinert says that many conditions can hinder an individual's ability to see at night, ranging from something as benign as needing corrective lenses to something as serious as cataracts or retinal degeneration.

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OAD 10/20/09

What to Know About Self-Diagnosing

Why Am I Tired?
Maryann, 23, is a busy graduate student who reports feeling fatigued, lightheaded and shaky at times. She fears her symptoms may mean that she has anemia or hypoglycemia and turns to The Doctors for help.

Anemia is a condition that occurs when your body lacks enough healthy red blood cells. It can be triggered by iron deficiency, and one of the major symptoms is fatigue.

Online Physicians

The high cost of medical care has made it tempting for some people to consult doctors via the Internet. The Doctors puts online physicians to the test. Do they make the grade?

Hypoglycemia occurs when your blood sugar is too low. According to internist and CBS medical correspondent Dr. Holly Phillips, "As a medical illness, it really has to do with how your body uses insulin and how it controls blood sugar. All of us can experience periods of low blood sugar if you just don't have anything to eat for a period of time. But as a medical illness, hypoglycemia is another issue."

The Doctors sends Maryann to Dr. Phillips, who performs a series of blood tests to see if Maryann's problems are indeed due to anemia and hypoglycemia. The test results reveal that Maryann does not suffer from either illness.

"Maryann, you're just like so many of my patients," Dr. Phillips says. "You're tired. You're a young grad student, working full-time, studying full-time, trying to find the time to spend with your friends and family and be social. And you're really burning the candle at both ends. You're exhausted.

"So I think part of the reason you're feeling tired," she adds, "is because you are tired. You've really got to work on getting that energy level up."

Dr. Phillips suggests that Maryann eat a nutritious, well-balanced diet that includes leafy greens, fruits and protein-rich snacks, and make sure she gets enough sleep.

The Suicide Disease
Sandra, 51, suffers from trigeminal neuralgia, also known as the "suicide disease" because it causes excruciating jolts of pain to shoot through the face and can make people feel like killing themselves. See Sandra's painful story.

"This is the mother of all pinched nerves," neurosurgeon Dr. Neil Martin explains. "This is what happens when the trigeminal nerve, which comes out of the brain stem and goes to your face and provides sensation, gets pinched, usually by a blood vessel."

Dr. Martin details the condition, what Sandra's brain scan revealed and how he surgically treated her.

Periodic Limb Movement Disorder
For the last year, Laura's 4-year-old son, Korbin, has been twitching, shaking and clenching his body while he sleeps. Concerned, Laura turned to the Internet for answers. Her research has led her to believe that Korbin is suffering from periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD).

PLMD Symptoms

• Poor sleep and daytime sleepiness
• Leg and limb movements during sleep
• Knee, ankle and big toe joints bend at night

"[PLMD] is not that common, it's a little rare," pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears says. "I can think of some other problems first.

"There's some important things you've got to do to make sure this is the true diagnosis," Dr. Jim adds. "First off, you've got to get a sleep study [done]. Now they can do these at home, too. You used to have to go to a sleep lab. ... You really have to talk to your doctor, because there are also some other causes for these symptoms. Sometimes kids that are anemic, or have poor circulation or kidney problems could have these types of symptoms, too."

Treatments for PLMD include massages, relaxation techniques, and, in serious cases, medication.

Self-Medication
Jannette from Orlando, Florida says that she gets strep throat three to four times a year and is tired of going to the doctor. She has stocked up on antibiotics over the years and self-medicates when she begins showing symptoms. She asks The Doctors if she is doing the right thing.

Plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon explains the dangers of self-medicating and overusing antibiotics.

New Ways to Restore Your Body

Obesity and Contraception
Can obesity impact the efficacy of birth control pills? OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson says that extra body weight interferes with a woman's hormones and can make her less fertile. Excess body weight can also lessen the effect of birth control pills.

"As gynecologists, we have known for awhile that obesity may play a part in the efficacy of contraception," Dr. Lisa says. "But there aren't any parameters right now. The idea that you would give a person who is obese a stronger or a higher estrogen-containing birth control pill would only increase her risk of blood clots, heart attacks and strokes."

If you are overweight, be sure to consult your doctor to craft an individualized birth control regimen that is appropriate for you.

New Burn Treatment
Twenty-one-year-old triplets Jordan, Trae and Chandra were severely burned in a house fire when they were young children. See the breakthrough treatment that helps restore their skin and their lives.

The triplets describe themselves as burn survivors, rather than burn victims, and want to help others experience the same transformation that the laser treatments provided them.

"We've been so blessed with great people to help us out, and we've been able to get the treatments," Jordan says, "that we really wanted to pay it forward. So the girls and I started our own foundation called Three for Hope, to empower and inspire other burn survivors and spread the message of hope."

Mary was badly burned in a house fire as an infant. Twenty years later, she lives with the scars of the horrifying event. The triplets surprise Mary onstage with a Lumenis laser treatment, performed by dermatologist Dr. Jill Waibel.

Two-for-One Tummy Tuck
Since giving birth to twins five years ago, Erin, 36, has not been able to regain her pre-pregnancy belly. Plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon says that Erin is a classic case of someone who has diastasis recti, the separation of the left and right rectus abdominis muscle in the abdomen. No amount of exercise can repair the condition and surgical intervention is required.

Dr. Ordon performs his signature two-for-one tummy tuck that promises to restore Erin's muscles and skin. Watch the surgery and see the amazing results!

Diastasis recti cannot always be avoided. However, Dr. Lisa recommends that women exercise their abdominal muscles before they get pregnant and minimize weight gain during pregnancy.

Frequent Nosebleeds
Does your child suffer from frequent nosebleeds? The culprit, says pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears, are the blood vessels in the nasal septum. Due to their proximity to the surface, the vessels are prone to bleeding, as the nasal septum can dry out fairly easily, effectively rupturing the vessels. Environmental factors such as the change in seasons can trigger nosebleeds.

"To stop a nosebleed, hold the nose, and lean the head forward for at least 10 minutes," E.R. physician Dr. Travis adds.

How to Prevent or Minimize Nosebleeds:
• Use a humidifier to keep the bedroom moist
• Use moisturizing nasal sprays
• Spread petroleum jelly into the nasal cavity

If all else fails, doctors can cauterize blood vessels in the nose with silver nitrate. If your child continues to have frequent nosebleeds, be sure to consult your doctor, as certain types may indicate a blood clotting problem.

Migraines
Dr. Travis explains that migraine headaches are thought to be caused by the dilation of blood vessels in the brain. The dilated vessels pull on nerve receptors located near the blood vessels, causing pain signals to be sent to the brain. The result is a terrible, throbbing headache with a variety of symptoms. Migraines are difficult to treat, as symptoms and triggers vary among individuals.

How to Overcome Health Obstacles

Alex's Story

Donate to Alex's Fund

Read more about Alex's story, and see how you can help fund a deep-brain stimulation operation for her through The Dr. Phil Foundation.

Alex, 27, appeared on The Doctors and shared her struggle with dystonia, a neurological movement disorder that causes muscles to contract and spasm involuntarily. The muscle contractions force Alex's body into repetitive and often twisting movements, as well as awkward, irregular postures. Presently, there is no cure for dystonia, but multiple treatment options exist, including physical, speech and voice therapy, medications, Botox and surgery.

Talk-show host and best-selling author Montel Williams visited Alex to give her inspirational advice and helped her garner the courage to walk down Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills with her head held high.

Alex returns to The Doctors a more confident woman, but is still searching for medical answers. A video taped segment features Alex and Montel meeting with leading experts about her condition at Massachusetts General Hospital.

"Going to Boston was a complete eye-opener," Alex says. "After going to 20-plus neurologists and doctors, saying I was crazy, that I was making this up in my head, that I was doing this for attention and nothing was wrong with me, Montel [gave me] the sweetest thing anyone has ever given me. We went there, talked to the doctor who made it a point and actually said, 'You do have dystonia. You're not making it up. You're not crazy, you don't have to go see a psychiatrist. There is something wrong with you.'"

Swine Flu Vaccine

Is the swine flu vaccine safe? Should you get it? Former acting Surgeon General of the United States Rear Admiral Steven K. Galson, M.D., M.P.H. joins The Doctors to answer H1N1 vaccine questions.

Alex met with neurosurgeon Dr. Emad Eskandar to find out more about deep-brain stimulation as a treatment option.

Dr. Eskandar says that Alex is a candidate for the procedure and explains what deep-brain stimulation entails. "In her case it's a process, it's not an immediate thing," he says. "It's a two-stage surgery. In one case, we put in the deep-brain stimulators. That part is done with her awake just so we can test her and make sure we're in the right place. Then [there is] a smaller surgery later to put the pulse generator in. And then, we turn it on. [With] dystonia, unlike other things, like Parkinson's disease, it takes time for it to take effect, so we expect gradual improvement over a period of three-to-six months.

"The ideal would be that once it's all in and turned on and adjusted and so on, that a casual observer or someone just walking down the street looking at her would have no idea that there was anything wrong with her," Dr. Eskandar adds. "That would be our goal."

Montel's Food House Call

Montel's Healthy Recipes

Do you want your family to eat healthier? Montel shares his easy-to-make, nutritious recipes!

Like many American families, the Gordon's dinners aren't always well-balanced and healthy. Eating well is essential for any family, and Montel makes a house call to teach Kimberly, 42; Glenn, 41; Tatum, 15; Tanner, 13; Truth, 11; and Timothy, 5 what they are doing wrong and how they can eat more nutritious meals.

Montel says that substituting a grilled or baked fish, instead of a large piece of meat, can make a big difference.

Pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears adds, "Fish is good for just about every part of your body. It's good for your brain. But most importantly, it's good for your heart. It helps improve your cholesterol and your lipids; it helps increase HDL, which is the good cholesterol."

Web Exclusive
Montel uses an animation to show how simple changes to the food you eat can change a meal from bland and unhealthy to colorful and nutritious.

At-Home Colon Test
Colon cancer has a 90 percent cure rate when detected early, and the Colon Health Check, a new at-home fecal occult blood test, may be able to help you detect blood in your stool, which is a symptom of colorectal cancer.

"You take it one time, and it's simple," Montel says. "You do it at home, and it's almost like a home pregnancy test. You take a little tester -- and every now and then, you should look in that toilet before you flush it -- you dip it [into your bowel movement], poke it six times, put it back into a little bottle, shake it up and you put two drops on a little reader. That reader will come up either negative with one stripe or positive with two stripes. If it comes up [positive], then you know that you need to see your doctor because you may have something going on inside of you.

"Colon cancer affects 150,000 people every single year," Montel adds. "Fifty-thousand people die from it [every year in the US]. It's an equal-opportunity killer, male and female. And we know for a fact it is the one cancer that we can eradicate just through early detection."

E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork emphasizes that the Colon Health Check is not a substitute for a colonoscopy. "After age 50, it's recommended that everyone get a colonoscopy," Dr. Travis says. "It's the only way to detect early cancers, because, a lot of times, a polyp won't bleed until it's too late."

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OAD 10/14/09

Ask Our Doctors: Recurring Ailments

Bye-Bye Body Odor
Recurring body odor can be a frustrating and embarrassing problem.

New Treatment for Hemorrhoids

Dr. Ordon explains a new treatment for internal hemorrhoids and offers prevention tips:

• Eat high-fiber foods
• Use laxatives or stool softeners if constipated, and don't strain
• Apply over-the-counter creams and ointments can help with discomfort

"It's a natural phenomenon," plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon says. "We all sweat, and the bacteria that live on our body like that sweat. They consume that sweat and actually form that bad odor. It's not the sweat itself; it's the bacteria feeding on the sweat."

Some people tend to sweat more than others, which can increase odor-causing bacteria. Several medications, treatments and procedures, such as Botox and Vaser, can combat perspiration and reduce body odor.

To curb the offending odor, use a combination of antiperspirant and deodorant. "I actually use two separate products, one and then the other," Dr. Ordon says.

Certain foods and drinks, such as curry and vodka, can cause your body to release odors, as well.

Eliminate Bad Breath
Foul-smelling morning breath is a common issue almost everyone encounters with because of the lack of saliva in your mouth at night. But if your bad breath continues throughout the day, there are ways to eradicate it.

In addition to regular brushing and flossing, eating foods like apples and carrots can eliminate food particles and bacteria in your mouth. Drinking plenty of water and chewing cinnamon-flavored gum can improve your breath. If you eat garlic, beware, because the smell can come out through the lungs for a day or two after consumption.

Makeup Help

Win a Temptu

For a chance to win a Temptu AIRbrush Makeup System, click here!

Is your makeup actually causing you to have acne breakouts? Dr. Ordon explains why this happens, and what to do to avoid it.

Kathy, 21, suffers from acne and blemishes, and wonders if her dirty makeup brushes are to blame, since she rarely cleans them. Airbrush makeup artist Kristina applies makeup using the Temptu AIRbrush Makeup System, a system that reduces contamination from brushes and fingers, and can help prevent acne. See the amazing results!

Chronic Neck Pain
Kristina, 41, suffered a ruptured disk in her neck as a result of a car accident, causing her severe neck pain that has affected her life tremendously.

"The pain is constant, stabbing, pretty much unbearable," she says. "Cleaning the house used to take me 20 to 30 minutes a day, and now I can't do anything."

She has tried ice, salt, physical therapy and cortisone shots to combat the chronic pain, but to no avail.

"I have a 6-year-old and a 20-year-old," she says, "and life shouldn't be this way. I should be enjoying it with them."

Neurosurgical spine specialist Dr. Ian Armstrong performs a new surgery on Kristina, using adult stem cells from cadavers. Dr. Armstrong explains how the procedure helps patients like Kristina feel better just days after surgery.

"It's amazing," Kristina says. "My neck does not hurt. I am ready to go play with my son. I'm ready to have my life back. I'm ready to go back to exercising. And this is [only] four days [after surgery]!"

Dr. Armstrong's Tips for Preventing Neck Pain
• Maintain good posture.
• Keep the muscles around the spine in good shape.

Preventing Allergies

Dr. Ordon's tips to prevent allergies in the bedroom:

• Use dust-proof covers for pillows and the mattress
• Use an air conditioner
• Clean regularly
• Wash curtains, drapes and sheets frequently

• Avoid excessive heavy or strenuous activity, and use proper mechanics when doing heavy lifting.

Allergy Relief
Are allergies preventing you from getting a good night's sleep? JoAnn, 38, suffers from allergies that make it difficult to breathe, especially at night.

Allergens come from dust, dust mites or pollen, and sleeping with the windows open can exacerbate their effects. An air purifier, such as the PureNight Pure Air System, can also help alleviate nighttime allergies. Allergist Dr. Richard Morris explains how the PureNight System works as JoAnn tests it out.

Pinworm Problem
Approximately 40 million cases of pinworm infestations are reported in the United States every year. Pinworms are a big problem caused by small parasites that live in the gut.

"It's really, really common and doesn't have a whole lot to do with hygiene or anything, so don't feel bad about it," pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears says. "They look like little, tiny pieces of string [around the anus,] and they wiggle. They come out at night and lay their eggs on the outside of the anus and cause itching. While you're asleep, you tend to scratch down there if it is itching, and somehow those eggs get on your fingers, find their way into your mouth and get down in your gut again and start their whole life cycle over."

Acid Reflux

Do you notice that you have acid reflux when you eat certain foods? Gastrointestinal surgeon Dr. Kevin Reavis explains why this happens and reveals a new treatment for this problem.

Dr. Jim advises that if your child is complaining of itching, check for pinworms at night by using a flashlight to inspect the anal area for tiny, white, threadlike worms. If you find them, call your doctor in the morning, and he or she will prescribe an anti-worm medication.

If you do not see pinworms when your child is complaining of itching, you can place a piece of clear tape over the anal area for a few seconds in the morning. Take the piece of tape to your doctor to see if he or she can find eggs on it with a microscope.

To keep pinworms from coming back, make sure to keep your child's fingernails short and clean and to wash his or her hands often. Also, the worms can live on clothing and bedding for several weeks, so be sure to launder them regularly.

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OAD 10/14/09

Top "C" Words Everyone Hates

Cold vs. Flu

Learn how to tell the difference between the common cold, the flu and H1N1 virus. MORE...

Rebound After C-Section
Women who have had a C-section may find that chewing gum can help restore digestive function. OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson notes that during a C-section, doctors must move the stomach in order to get to the uterus.

This intrusion can shock the stomach and cause it to stop performing peristalsis, a series of organized muscle contractions required for digestion.

"But when you chew gum," Dr. Lisa explains, "the chewing motion will activate the digestive juices down in the abdomen to get that motion to start back up, and get the bowels to start moving, and get a bowel movement going."

Constipation
Gastroenterologist Dr. Lin Chang from the Division of Digestive Diseases at UCLA says that the first thing she does with a patient who complains of chronic constipation is rule out whether the condition is due to a secondary cause -- an underlying medical condition that causes it - i.e. diabetes, thyroid disease or colon cancer -- or a primary cause - i.e. the colon moves stool slowly, or a pelvic floor problem impedes bowel evacuation.

One test Dr. Chang performs is a SITZ marker test, which determines if constipation iis caused by a slow transit of stool in the colon or if a patient has a pelvic floor problem. The normal transit time of stool is 72 hours.
"The reason you want to determine that [it's problem with the pelvic floor] is the treatment is different," Dr. Chang says. "You don't just give laxatives and medicines. You have to get something called biofeedback. That's the best treatment."

"Most cases of short-term constipation are due to things like your diet," E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork adds. "You're not getting enough fiber and you're not getting enough fluids."

Chronic Cough
If you've had a chronic cough that has lasted more than eight weeks, see your doctor for x-rays and further testing for serious conditions such as lung cancer, tuberculosis and underlying lung disease.

"Most causes of a chronic cough are something intrinsic to the lungs, such as asthma, allergies, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), reflux disease or chronic post-nasal drip," Dr. Travis explains.

Chickenpox
Chickenpox is caused by the highly contagious varicella-zoster virus and is transmitted through the air as well as through skin-to-skin contact. Dr. Travis explains how chickenpox infects the body.

Ninety percent of chickenpox infections occur during childhood, but adult infections have serious ramifications. To prevent contracting the virus, adults can get vaccinated. Some adults may already be immune to chickenpox if they carry the antibodies, which can be determined through a blood test.

"Pregnant women should see if they're immune to it," Dr. Lisa advises. "Because it's really bad if they get it when they're pregnant, and then they should wait three months until after they get the vaccine [to get pregnant]."

Colic
As any parent can attest, a colicky baby is an unhappy baby. Pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears discusses colic and the best ways to prevent and treat the condition.

Calluses
Podiatrist Dr. Philip Radovic, from California Foot and Ankle Associates, explains the difference between corns and calluses and the best way to treat them.

Pain-Free Cavity Prevention
Cosmetic dentist Dr. Bill Dorfman says that people can avoid cavities on the top of their teeth if they have clear resin sealants bonded to their molars at age 6 and then again at age 12. Dr. Bill performs the procedure on his daughter Georgie and explains how it can prevent tooth decay.

Health Hearsay: Lipstick Lore
Contrary to urban myth, lipstick does not cause cancer, assures Liz Vacciarello, editor in chief of Prevention. The magazine reports that lipstick does contain trace amounts of lead, but the levels are so low they are of little concern.

"Here's a way to put it into context," Liz explains. "If you have a dirty, dusty house or find lead in your soil, there are hundreds of parts per million of lead in those areas. Lipstick has about .1 to 3 parts per million. So the amounts in an entire tube of lipstick are next to nothing."

"Children absorb up to 50 percent of lead," Dr. Travis adds, "whereas adults absorb only five to eight percent. So wearing lipstick as a mom? No big deal. But you don't want your kids eating lipstick."

OAD 10/12/09

Ashamed of My Body: New Solutions!

Inside a Nose Reconstruction

AJ, 21, has breathing problems because of his crooked nose. Go inside his nose reconstruction and see the amazing results!

The Doctors enter the "no-shame zone" and present new solutions to your embarrassing body problems.

Pit Problem
Ginger, 35, and her sister Amanda, 33, share a problem that leaves them feeling insecure. Both have over-active sweat glands and perspire profusely, even in cold weather. Not only does their sweat leave stains on their clothing, but it is often accompanied by an unpleasant odor.

"[Amanda] is still brave enough to buy white shirts," Ginger says. "I don't even buy them anymore."

Ginger and Amanda have tried everything from prescription-strength antiperspirants, to medications to lining their armpits with panty liners to stop the sweating, but none of the methods haved worked. Today, the sisters undergo the Vaser prodecure to eliminate their excessive perspiration for good!

Plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon explains the difference between using deodorant and antiperspirant and demonstrates how the Vaser procedure helps to regulate excessive sweating.

Hemorrhoid Relief

If you suffer from hemorrhoids, see a new device that helps relieve the pain!

Labia Bleaching
Sally Twittered The Doctors for their opinion on a very personal topic: she thinks her labia is discolored and she wants to bleach it, and asks if it is safe.

OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson explains the various colors of the labia and what they mean, and presents a product that can safely change the color down there.

Kick "Cankles" to the Curb
Cankles is a slang term for ankles with little or no definition between where the ankle ends and the calf begins.Natalie is so ashamed of her cankles that she wears only pants and long skirts. Dr. Ordon performs 3-D liposuction sculpting to give Natalie's ankles the more shapely look she desires.

See Natalie's legs after the surgery! And, Dr. Ordon explains the procedure.

For more on cankles and treatment options, read Dr. Ordon's blog.

Help for Brittle Nails

Do your brittle nails bother you? The Doctors offer treatments for your nail troubles.

Belly Fat Quick Fix
Ladies, are you embarrassed by your man's beer belly? Jeanine wants to find a quick fix to shrink her boyfriend Justin's stomach.

"There's no such thing as a quick fix," E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork says. "The only thing to truly fix the beer belly is, over time, improving diet and being active."

For years, women have used garments such as girdles and, more recently, Spanx to corset their bellies and create a slimmer waistline. Now there is a product made specifically for men - the Equmen core precision undershirt.

"It's supposed to trim you, it's supposed to support your core," Dr. Ordon says. "It helps your posture and should make you shrink several inches."

"Maybe [wear it] for that special evening," Dr. Lisa says, "and then you have to go back to the exercise and the diet. But if you have to go for an interview or something and you want to look nice, that may be an answer, just like it is for women. It's a good option, but you still have to exercise."

Justin wears the Equmen and sees dramatic results in his pot belly. It even temporarily cut his waist size by two and a half inches.

"It's really, really tight," Justin says. "After wearing it for a couple of hours, now I know what women go through!"

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OAD 10/9/09

Things You Must Tell Your Doctor

When it comes to your health, honesty isn't just the best policy, it's the only policy. The long, sometimes tedious forms doctors have you fill out do serve an important purpose because your doctors need to know what is going on with your health status and history before treating you for any problem. The Doctors reveal the information you must share with your physician.

What To Tell Your Doctor

Check out The Doctors' list of things you must tell your physician!

... Before Surgery
Prior to going under the knife, it is essential that your body is prepared to endure the surgery and heal properly. While many may reach for ibuprofen and aspirin, these over-the-counter treatments for aches and pains actually reduce the blood's ability to clot, which can cause excessive bleeding. Because of this, physicians instruct their patients to avoid these pain relievers before a procedure. Doctors also recommend staying away from fizzing antacids before surgery, which can also put you in danger by reducing the bodies blood-clotting ability. Be sure to avoid these medications before an operation, and if you do take them, your doctor needs to know.

See how ibuprofen, aspirin and antacids affect your blood.

If you are considering rhinoplasty, yet using nasal decongestant sprays to alleviate a stuffy or runny nose, be sure to tell your surgeon.

"[Decongestants] can help you breathe better," plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon says. "But what happens is that the inside of your nose actually gets sensitized to the spray or the drops and you get a rebound phenomenon, which means that when it wears off, all the blood vessels open up. So what happens is you are set up to get more bleeding in surgery and have poor healing. It's something that the doctor really needs to know, and you actually need to be off of these things for three months before undergoing elective nasal surgery."

Did you have a body piercing as a teen, but removed it long ago? Before going under the knife, you need to tell your doctor about any and all body piercings -- even if they have been removed. Dr. Ordon explains why.

Medications and Birth Control

Certain medications can affect how well your birth control works. Here are a few that can reduce the effectiveness of your pill:

• Penicillin
• Amoxicillin
• Tetracycline
• Phenobarbital
• Others

...About Your Sex Life
Suffering from reoccurring yeast infections? The lubricant you use during sex may be to blame. Dr. Lisa Masterson reveals which lubricants can put you at risk for infection, and which ones won't.

And it's not just the ladies who need to disclose information. Men need to open up to their doctors about their sex life as well. Failing to tell your doctor that you're taking erectile dysfunction medication can be fatal. E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork demonstrates why.

...About Your Mouth
If your gums are bleeding, you may be inclined to tell your dentist, but did your know that you also need to tell your primary care physician? The Doctors explain why bleeding gums could be a sign of a bigger problem.

Brushing your teeth is essential to good hygiene and health, and the best way to maintain a healthy mouth is to start young. Actress Jennie Garth volunteers with Smiles Across America, an organization that helps underserved children get the oral hygiene care they need, to teach kids how to take care of their teeth.

See Jennie's favorite brushing tip that she uses with her own children!

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OAD 10/08/09

When Your Health Changes in an Instant

Ask the Triplets!

Have a question or advice for the triplets? Write them HERE!

The Triplets' Surprise!
Identical triplets Erica, Jaclyn and Nicole announce their pregnancies. The sisters have their ultrasounds live onstage to find out the answer to the question everyone wants to know ... are the triplets carrying triplets?

Watch and find out!

Morning Sickness
Executive producer of The Doctors Jay McGraw asks OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson why his wife, Erica, who is four months pregnant, has never experienced morning sickness.

Placenta Previa
Nicole is six months along and has learned she has a condition called placenta previa. Dr. Lisa explains what that means and how that will affect Nicole's delivery options.

I'm Going to Be a Grandpa!

Dr. Phil blogs about becoming a grandparent for the first time!

Abdominal Pain during Pregnancy
Jacyln is five-and-a-half months pregnant and recounts the severe abdominal pain that sent her to the emergency room. Dr. Lisa details reasons for pain, and why it's important to seek medical attention immediately.

What to Eat When You're Expecting
Pregnant women should eat 1,800 to 3,000 calories per day, depending on their pre-pregnancy weight. The triplets whip up preggo-friendly snacks.

"You're not eating for two ... or three, or four! You only need 300 more calories a day," Dr. Lisa advises.

See the complete list of foods you should and shouldn't eat when pregnant.

Varicose Vein Procedure
When the viewers speak out, The Doctors listens! Debbie from Wichita, Kansas wanted The Doctors to produce a show about how to get rid of varicose veins. She submitted her idea to ProduceTheDoctors.com, and it was selected as a topic for the show. Vein specialist Dr. Raffy Karamanoukian demonstrates a way to reverse the unsightly blood vessels using the foam sclerotherapy procedure on Sabrina, 41.

Read more about varicose veins.

Produce the Doctors!

Submit YOUR ideas to www.ProduceTheDoctors.com!

Rotator Cuff Repair
Sharon, 63, tore her rotator cuff several months ago and was in a great deal of pain.

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. William Stetson explains what happens when someone tears a rotator cuff and details the arthroscopic surgery that can repair it.

"It's just three small incisions," Dr. Stetson explains. "Sharon just went home the same day. She didn't have the big incisions, so her recovery time will be much faster than an open surgery."

OAD 10/7/09

Body Sounds Explained

The Physician Musician

Why We Sneeze

Dr. Ordon explains what causes a sneeze and why it's dangerous to hold it in.

• See the faces we make and the germs we emit from the beginning of a sneeze to the end. Footage courtesy of a public service announcement from the Department of Health in South Australia.

Physician Dr. John Clarke, also known as the Physician Musician, created a rap to inform people about the H1N1 virus. Watch as Dr. Clarke turns plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon from an M.D. to an MC and busts a rhyme about the swine flu!

• OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson blogs about the H1N1 vaccine for pregnant women.

Gassy Situation
While both are caused by gas, burps and flatulence are brought on in different ways.

Bubbles created by bacteria in the gut cause the average person to pass gas approximately 10 times a day.

"It's actually healthy," OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson says. "Like after you have surgery, if you don't pass gas, you can have really painful gas pains. That's why we get you up and have you walk around."

Farting is a natural bodily function, but when smells are emitted, it can be embarrassing. E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork explains that compounds in the gut such as hydrogen sulfide can give off an unpleasant odor.

"These are gasses produced by bacteria that usually live in the colon," Dr. Ordon says.

If you have excessive flatulence, take a look at your diet. Eating foods high in fiber, such as beans and broccoli can cause problems for some people.

Burping, on the other hand, is normal after a meal. Belches result from swallowing air when you eat, drink and chew with your mouth open, or when you drink carbonated beverages.

If you experience chest pains, difficulty swallowing or other symptoms when you burp, it could be a sign of something more serious and you should talk with your doctor.

Tinnitus

Do you have a constant ringing in your ears? It may be tinnitus. Find out what it is, why it happens and what new treatment can help stop the unpleasant sounds.

Baby Sounds During Feeding
Does your baby make gasping sounds while feeding? Dr. Jim explains why this happens and what you can do to prevent it.

Pitch Imperfect
Matthew, 20, says his voice has not matured, and he is often mistaken for a woman on the phone. He asks The Doctors what treatments are available to help his voice change.

"If your voice doesn't deepen as a male as you grow older, it's usually because of some hormone problem," Dr. Jim says.

Dr. Jim and Dr. Ordon demonstrate the difference between a young vocal cord and a mature vocal cord.

The Doctors reassure Matthew that there are both surgical and hormonal treatments to help him.

"First off, you need to be supervised by an endocrinologist, so they can see exactly where the hormone problem is; whether it's in your brain or down in your gonads." Dr. Jim says. "Then they'll figure out which hormone to replace. It's going to be supervised, and it's going to take about a year or so. It's going to be injections regularly at a doctor's office, sometimes a gel or a patch. Usually, there really are no side effects to worry about as long as the endocrinologist is supervising perfectly."

One surgical option makes the vocal cords thicker by includes injecting fat in and around the cords to make them thicker and wider, which will deepen a person's voice. Hear the difference in someone's voice before and after this procedure.

Stomach Sounds
Do you know what your stomach is trying to tell you when it makes a growling sound? The Doctors explain what the noises mean, and how you can keep them at bay.

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OAD 10/06/09

Prevention Tips You Need to Know

Breast Cancer Tips

Learn vital information to help prevent and treat breast cancer. MORE...

When it comes to disease, it's far easier to prevent it than fight it. Editor-in-chief of Prevention, Liz Vaccariello, joins The Doctors to provide prevention tips to keep you healthy.

"Prevention magazine has been inspiring and teaching people how to get and stay healthy for more than 60 years," Liz explains. "Nobody wants to get sick, they want to stay healthy and that's what Prevention's all about!"

Boost Your Metabolism
If you want to rev up your metabolism, snack on watermelon! The fruit contains argenine, an amino acid that enhances oxidation, or metabolism, of fat and glucose, and one slice is only 80 calories.

PMS Relief
Crushed by cramps? Try a little cinnamon! The spice may help ease menstrual cramps by increasing blood circulation in the uterus and decreasing pain.

Ear Infections in Babies
If your baby comes down with an ear infection, it may be due to the way you're holding him or her while bottle-feeding. If your baby is lying too far back, the milk can pool in the eustachian tubes, which can lead to infection. By repositioning the baby to an upright position, you can help prevent future ear infections.

Hot Flash Spray
Evamist is the only FDA-approved estrogen spray that can help ease hot flashes often brought on by menopause. "It does have estrogen in it, so you should talk to your doctor about using it first," advises OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson. Evamist is available by prescription only.

Flat Belly Diet
Extra weight in your mid-section increases your risk of many diseases. Belly fat, also known as visceral fat, endangers vital organs by wrapping around them and becoming metabolically active; stimulating hormones, increasing blood pressure, decreasing sensitivity to insulin and other adverse effects.

Liz Vaccariello is the co-author of the New York Times bestseller The Flat Belly Diet that promises to banish belly fat for good. See why!

Try the 28-Day Flat Belly Plan!

Breast Cancer
Every three minutes, a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer. October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and the best way to prevent the disease is to have early and frequent screenings.
More about breast cancer.

Flu Shot 411
On the fence about getting the flu shot? It is recommended for pregnant women, kids from ages 6 months to 19 years, health care providers, caretakers of young children and adults over the age of 50 who have chronic medical conditions. E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork explains how the flu shot works.

Cryotherapy
After a hard workout, skip the ice pack and jump into an ice tub! Dr. Travis tries cryotherapy, which promises to reduce swelling, tissue breakdown, and pain ... but it's not for the faint of heart! The water needs to be a cool 50 degrees, and you'll need to stay in the tub for 15 to 20 minutes to get the full effect.

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OAD 10/05/09

Medical Mistakes You May Be Making

Self Exams You Must Do Now!

More Self-Exams

OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson demonstrates how to perform a breast self-exam.

Learn easy, life-saving self-exams that you can do in the privacy of your own home, and prevent problems before they begin. Remember, when it comes to your body, you are your best ally. Get to know your body!

Appendicitis Self-Exam
E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork explains what appendicitis is, and outlines the warning signs of the condition.

The Booby Wall
Rethink Breast Cancer is an organization that has a whimsical and lighthearted take on breast screenings. They created the Booby Wall exhibit to help alleviate the stress of breast exams. Remember, when it comes to your breasts, a little TLC (Touch, Look and Check) goes a long way!

Genital Self-Exam
Dr. Lisa demonstrates how to perform a genital exam. "Remember," she says, "vulvas come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Know your body, women. It's really important."

Hearing Self-Exam
In a culture that uses headphones almost as much as cell phones, our auditory senses are at risk. Plastic surgeon and ENT Dr. Drew Ordon demonstrates how to perform a hearing exam at home.

Take the hearing test here!

Eye Self-Exam
Dr. Andrew Pilon from the Sierra Eye and Laser Institute demonstrates EyeSite, a self-service video screening kiosk. "It tests your distance and near vision, and it's highly reliable," Dr. Pilon says. "But it doesn't replace an examination by a doctor."

Skin Self-Exam
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, but most cases are actually brought to the attention of doctors by the patients themselves. Dermatologist Dr. Tess Mauricio demonstrates how to decipher and assess your moles and track potentially dangerous skin changes over a period of time.

Learn more about moles and melanoma.

Oral Self-Exam
Oral surgeon Dr. Fred Monempour demonstrates three quick, simple dental exams that you can perform on your own to determine if your teeth, gums or mouth need immediate attention.

Lymph Self-Exam
The lymphatic system is an essential part of your immune system, with lymph nodes located throughout the body. Dr. Travis details the role of lymph and how to perform a lymph node self-exam.

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OAD 10/01/09

Is There a Cure?

Are Birth Defects Seasonal?
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that birth defects are three percent higher in children conceived between April and June. The studies posit that the amount of pesticides in the water, ground and air could contribute to this phenomenon.

OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson recommends that mothers-to-be decrease the risk of birth defects by taking a folic acid supplement, eating pesticide-free foods and refraining from gardening.

New Treatment for Foot Fungus
A new procedure to eliminate foot fungus is said to be 88 percent more effective than any other treatment on the market. See how the procedure is performed, and learn the preventative measures that will prevent the fungus from forming.

Alternative Allergy Treatment
Allergies affect nearly 20 percent of Americans. Some symptoms are merely unpleasant, while others are so serious they require multiple injections to manage. A new remedy may eliminate the need for shots for good.

Peanut Allergy Breakthrough
Peanut allergies can be life-threatening to some children, but scientists at Duke University may be on the verge of a breakthrough treatment for the condition. Read more about childhood food allergies.

Country music star Trace Atkins on the dangers of childhood allergies.

Breast Cancer Breakthrough
Surgical breast specialist Dr. Kristi Funk demonstrates a cutting-edge technology used in the fight against breast cancer. See how the targeted radiation device with the SAVI applicator attacks the cancer cells.

Liver Cancer Treatment
Radiation oncologist Dr. May Wahab is working with a new radiation therapy, TheraSphere, to treat liver cancer, a notably aggressive cancer. TheraSphere uses the blood supply of the liver to attack the cancer directly.

Diaper Digging Solution
Carla from Florida calls in to ask pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears for help with her 2-year-old daughter who won't stop digging in her dirty diaper. Hear his solution.

Syphilis
After being nearly eradicated in the United States, the rates of syphilis infection have risen for the last seven years. E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork explains how to recognize the often-overlooked symptoms of this dangerous disease.

Learn more about syphilis

Vaginal Infections
Dr. Lisa details bacterial vaginosis, an infection of the vaginal tissue. She demonstrates how the color of vaginal discharge can help identify the type of infection.

Coconut Water
Looking for an alternative to man-made sports drinks? Try Mother Nature's concoction! A single serving of Vita-Coco coconut water is fat-free, has only 60 calories, loaded with vitamin C and potassium and enough to keep you naturally hydrated.

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OAD 9/30/09

Ask Our Doctors: Expiration Dates Exposed

Expiration Terms

“Sell by” is a guide for the store, to know how long they can display a product for sale. “Best before” or “Best if used by” refers to the quality of the flavor. “Use by” is an expiration date, similar to medication and using it after that date is not recommended. “Use by” is the most important date to keep an eye out for.

Towels, Linens and Mattresses

Did you know your own mattress could expire up to a dozen times throughout your life? Mattresses should be changed every five to seven years. Protect-A-Bed mattress and pillow covers can seal out dust mites, bed bugs and pet dander, extending the life of your mattress. Sheets and towels should be washed once a week.

Sabrina and Huck, who differ on matters of hygiene, were surprised with an entire bedroom makeover, including a Simmons Beauty Rest NXG mattress and furniture supplied by Living Spaces.

Household Products

Kristen worries about expired household products, which her husband, Rick, doesn’t want thrown away. Pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears does a house call to lend a hand.

OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson demonstrates a simple test to see if your eggs are still fresh or should be thrown out.

Most leftovers can last three to five days if refrigerated immediately. If the food sits out for two hours or more, throw it out. If it sits outside for more than an hour, toss it. Dr. Jim recommends marking your leftovers with the date you put them in the refrigerator. Click here for a more extensive list on food expiration dates.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen expires after one to three years. If you can’t remember how long you had it, toss it. Are you using enough? E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork demonstrates sunscreen safety.

Contact Lenses

Can you wear two-week disposable contacts for a month, or will that harm your eyes? Ophthalmologist Dr. Rex Hamilton weighs in on the proper care of contact lenses. Never store contact lenses in water, which can cause an eye infection. Only use eye solution specifically made for contact lenses.

Toothbrushes

Should you toss your toothbrush after you’ve had a cold? Dentist Dr. Bill Dorfman says no. A virus cannot live on your toothbrush for long, and your body creates antibodies to fight them. Dr. Jim says the one exception is when you have Strep throat. Start with a new toothbrush while you’re on antibiotics for this illness. In general, replace your toothbrush every two to three months or when bristles start to fray. Never share your toothbrush, particularly when you’re sick.

Teeth Cleanings

How often should you get your teeth cleaned? Dr. Dorfman says it depends on your plaque buildup and what your dentist recommends. Some people get more plaque buildup than others, so they should go more often. A photo comparison shows three scenarios and how often they should get a cleaning.

Shoes

When should you replace your running shoes? Podiatrist Dr. Philip Radovic has the answer to shoe shelf life.

Dr. Radovic recommends getting three pairs of running shoes and rotating their use to make them last longer. You can also get a UV light shoe tree to kill bacteria and sterilize.

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OAD 09/29/09

Get Moving with Jillian Michaels

Personal trainer and star of the hit TV show The Biggest Loser Jillian Michaels joins The Doctors to help get you motivated and on the path to better health!

Better your Body Using your Phone
Your cell phone isn't just for making calls, texting and tweeting on the go. It can also be a great addition to your workout. New applications, such as SixPack App, are available for your cell phone and can help you maintain a healthy life.

"You can even download workouts on there and take it with you to the gym," Jillian says. "I use it constantly when I go out to dinner and I want to know how many calories are in something."

"But it can't do crunches for you!" plastic surgeon Dr. Drew Ordon says.

E.R. physician Dr. Travis Stork demonstrates how SixPack App works.

Desperate for a Change
Lonna, 38 and 285 pounds; Dario, 30 and 233 pounds; Madalyne, 13 and 150 pounds; and her mother, Maria, 36 and 182 pounds, are all overweight and in need of a health intervention.

Jillian steps in to help Lonna, Dario, Madalyne and Maria get on the right track to better health. She wastes no time putting the four to work and finds out how they let their bodies go.

Jillian's Action Plan

To help Lonna, Dario, Madalyne and Maria kick-start their weight loss, Jillian gives them -- and you -- an action plan.

Lonna wants to have children, but feels she is too overweight to have a healthy pregnancy. In fact, this can be a problem many women face.

"Fat actually produces estrogen, so it can cause an imbalance in hormones," OB/GYN Dr. Lisa Masterson says. "This can cause you not to ovulate. It can also increase your risk for miscarriage, you can get preeclampsia or hypertension. That sounds scary, but you can correct all of this just by losing weight. You can take back your options. You can take back your life."

Dario sabotages his health with frequent trips to fast-food drive-thrus and regularly orders up to 10 tacos on "Taco Tuesday." That many fast-food tacos equates to, at least, 1,300 calories and 70 grams of fat.

"Over the course of a year -- and you've been at this for three years now -- it is 19 pounds of fat!" Dr. Ordon says. "That's what 'Taco Tuesday' does to you."

"We also know it increases your cholesterol and your risk for cardiovascular disease," Dr. Lisa adds.

Jillian explains that Maria and Madalyne's weight problems are very common among families.

"Like many mothers, you are putting the needs of your family in front of your own," Jillian says. "But your kids are picking up on that. That's why it's so important that you are a healthy role model for [Madalyne], because that is going to stay with her for the rest of her life. The best thing you can do for your kids, and for this little girl right here, is to be as happy and healthy as you can possibly be."

Lose Weight the Fun Way
Working out doesn't have to be boring and arduous. It should also be fun!

The Outer Circle Crew and pediatrician Dr. Jim Sears show you how break dancing can provide a great workout!

Getting down on the dance floor doesn't have to stop as you get older. See what three members of the NETSational Seniors hip-hop dance team say is their fountain of youth!

Shed Pounds while Watching The Doctors!
The Doctors put Lisette, Dan and Vanessa to the test to see how many calories they could burn over the duration of the show. Dr. Ordon reveals who burned the most and tells you how you can lose weight while enjoying The Doctors!

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OAD 09/28/09