Computed Tomography (CT) scans are images made by a computer and X-ray machine. CT scans give more detailed pictures of bones and soft tissue organs than regular X-rays. These images will help your doctor recommend the best treatment for you. Topics include: how you get ready for the scan, what happens during the scan, questions about breastfeeding after the scan, side effects, how long it will take, when to expect results, and where to send your feedback. A list of hospital contact info is pro…
This guide is to inform the reader about the services offered by the CF Program and how to access them. The first part of the guide identifies the members of the health care team and their roles. Common tests are explained. Other topics covered in the pamphlet are: medications, maintaining equipment, respiratory equipment and supplies, home intravenous antibiotics and hospitalization. Your role, keeping yourself updated, and the importance of research in battling CF is explained. Symptoms that …
Strabismus is a disorder when both eyes do not line up in the same direction. This means that they don’t look at the same object at the same time. This pamphlet explains what to expect after surgery (adjustable suture, dressing, medication, double vision). It also goes over how to apply eye ointment and followup care. The French version of this pamphlet 1715, "Correction du strabisme", is also available.
Methadone is an opioid analgesic (painkiller). It is often used to manage chronic pain. This pamphlet explains how to take methadone, when to take it, and what to do if you miss a dose. Special precautions, side effects, storage instructions, and a list of symptoms that require a call to your primary health care provider's office or the Pain Management Unit are provided. The French version of this pamphlet 2193, "La méthadone pour traiter la douleur chronique," is also available.
Opioid medications are analgesics (painkillers), commonly known as narcotics. They are used to manage severe pain. This pamphlet explains when to take them, what to do if you miss a dose, special precautions, common side effects, and a list of symptoms that require immediate medical attention. Common concerns about tolerance, dependence, and addiction are explained. Instructions for storing opioids are given.
This pamphlet is about hernia surgeries. A hernia forms when an outer wall of muscle breaks open or tears. This allows organs (such as a loop of bowel or tissue) to fall through the opening. Different types of hernia surgery are described. Topics include what to expect before surgery, on the day of surgery and after surgery at home. Some after surgery topics include pain control, deep breathing and coughing exercises, foot and leg exercises, care of your incision, physical activity, meals, heal…
An STI is an infection that is spread through sexual contact. Most STIs can be treated very easily. However, if left untreated, many can cause problems later. This pamphlet explains common symptoms of STIs, how we test for and treat STIs, what has changed with the STI Clinic, how to make an appointment, what to do if you just want to be screened for STIs, and what to expect at the Clinic. The STI Clinic's location and hours are also provided.
Some people have problems swallowing. This means that some food or liquid may go into your airway instead of your stomach. This is called aspiration. Aspiration is the word used when food or liquid ‘goes down the wrong way’. This pamphlet provides a list of signs that may mean you have swallowing problems. Safety tips to prevent aspiration (food or liquid going into your lungs) and choking are offered. The French version of this pamphlet 2175, "Lignes directrices pour s’alimenter sans danger", …
Some people have problems swallowing. This means that some food or liquid may go into the airway instead of the stomach. This is called aspiration. Aspiration is the word used when food or drink “goes down the wrong way”. This pamphlet provides recommendations that are safe for you when choosing foods. Foods that may increase the risk of aspiration are reviewed and space is provided for your dietitian to personalize your eating plan.
For many people with swallowing problems, it can be safer to drink thick liquids. The thickness will depend on how well you are able to swallow. In this pamphlet, the Swallow Team will check off which thickness level is best for you. A variety of commercial and household products and methods are suggested. The signs of too little fluid (dehydration) and ways to prevent this are provided. A list of symptoms to watch for is also given.
Pureed foods are easy to swallow. Almost any food can be pureed with the right ingredients and equipment. This pamphlet explains how to puree, including what liquids to add, how much food and liquid to mix together, helpful hints to make pureed meals, and ways to add calories and protein. What to do if constipation becomes a problem is also discussed. Recipes are included.
Some people have problems swallowing thin liquids. This means that some liquids may go into their airway instead of their stomach. This is called aspiration. Aspiration is the word used when food or drink goes ‘down the wrong way’. Sometimes aspiration can increase the chance of getting pneumonia (lung infection). It can also be very unpleasant and cause coughing. It may be hard to drink enough thick liquids to stay hydrated. To make sure you get enough liquids, you may be able to drink water b…
This pamphlet describes how to take your blood pressure at home. Topics include: advantages of monitoring your blood pressure at home, things to consider when buying a blood pressure monitor, how to measure, ideal blood pressure numbers at home, as well as a diagram showing the right way to take your blood pressure. The French version of this pamphlet 2197, "Surveiller la tension artérielle à la maison," is also available.
All fruits and vegetables have potassium. This pamphlet provides a list of foods that are high in potassium. If you have high blood potassium levels, you should avoid these foods. If you have low blood potassium levels, you should choose more of these foods daily. The French version of this pamphlet 2181, "Aliments riches en potassium," is also available.
Our bodies need fluid to work properly. The kidneys, liver, and heart work to keep fluids in balance. Sometimes, fluid builds up in our bodies. You may not notice when this happens. When the kidneys are not working properly, fluid intake must be limited to keep fluid from building up in your body. Signs that you are taking too much fluid are listed. Tips for managing fluid intake through your diet are provided.
Gastroparesis means stomach paralysis. This means the stomach is slow to empty. The guidelines in this pamphlet may help you to lower your symptoms and keep up good nutrition. A list of suggested food choices and foods to avoid is provided.
Magnesium is a mineral found in your body. Your body needs magnesium to keep bones, muscles, nervous system and immune system healthy. Magnesium can also help keep your blood sugar and blood pressure under control. How much magnesium needed each day is provided along with a list of foods high in this mineral.
This pamphlet will help you and your family learn more about cornea donation. Palliative care patients may be able to donate their corneas. Some myths and facts about cornea donation are provided, as well as the reasons why some people may not be able to donate. Common fears and misunderstandings, what to do if you decide to change your mind, and information given to your family about your donation are outlined. Testimonials from recipients are provided. The French version of this pamphlet, 219…
This pamphlet describes how to get ready for a colonoscopy if you have chronic kidney disease. Steps to prepare solutions on the day before your colonoscopy are listed. The day before your procedure and on the day of the test you should drink only clear liquids, and a suggested list is included. Remember not to eat any food or drink milk, or other liquids that are not clear, on the day before your colonoscopy or on the day of the test.
Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) are a group of medicines that help take the place of a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO). People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) may not have enough EPO coming from their kidneys to tell their body to make more red blood cells. This can cause their red blood cell count to drop and anemia (not enough red blood cells or hemoglobin in the blood) to develop. How to take and store this medicine and possible side effects to watch for are reviewed.