Dr. Karanbir Singh Gill, MD

An individual with anemia will have the following symptoms: shortness of breath, weakness, dizziness, cold hands or feet, paleness, and irritability. Anemia is diagnosed when blood tests show low counts for hemoglobin, which is the protein responsible for carrying oxygen to different tissues throughout the body.

Treatments for anemia are dependent on the kind of anemia an individual has. For example, iron supplementation may correct iron deficiency anemia. For anemia caused by chronic kidney failure, chemotherapy treatments, and HIV/AIDS, a group of medications called erythropoiesis-stimulating agents may be prescribed.

Children may be diagnosed with Asperger's syndrome by a pediatric neurologist, child psychologist, or pediatric neuropsychologist. Once a child is diagnosed with Asperger's, he or she may receive therapy or other treatments. While there are no drugs specifically intended for Asperger's, some doctors may prescribe antidepressant SSRIs (selective serotonin inhibitors) or stimulant medication to improve the mental health of some Asperger's patients.

Therapy can also help people with Asperger's, notably by improving their communication and guiding them to overcome personal issues and social difficulties. In particular, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) can help patients identify patterns of repetitive behaviors and narrow interests that may hinder them. Conversely, therapists may also teach people how to take advantage of certain Asperger's symptoms, such as an intense focus on a single interest, and use it to positively affect themselves and others. Social skills training (SST) is another behavioral therapy that helps people with Asperger's. SST encourages people with Asperger's to refine their social and conversational skills in a safe environment. By learning social cues and practicing behaviors in real time, people can better adapt to social situations. For example, someone who struggles in workplace environments may memorize a number of talking points for use during normal conversation. Other treatments may include psychoactive prescription medications for stress and anxiety associated with Asperger's, as well as physical and occupational therapy for those struggling with coordination.

Although no cure for Asperger's syndrome currently exists, therapy can significantly enhance the quality of life for many "Aspies," or people with Asperger's syndrome. With ongoing therapy and support, people with Asperger's can learn to lessen their symptoms and while also strengthening their own interests and skills.

IBS, or irritable bowel syndrome, happens when the muscles surrounding the colon contract too easily or frequently. The result is abdominal pain, cramps, diarrhea or constipation, gas and bloating. IBS attacks can often be brought on by specific triggers, so a key part of treatment is learning which foods trigger IBS attacks and avoiding them. Treatment also includes exercise, avoiding stress, and medications if needed.

Constipation, or large, hard, or infrequent stools, happens to everyone at some point. It can be caused by a disruption in routine or food, or by eating a diet without many fresh fruits and vegetables. Although it is uncomfortable, constipation is common and usually not serious, but it can sometimes become chronic. Adding fiber to the diet, exercising, and taking medications may help.

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a severe form of chronic heartburn where stomach acid spills back up into the esophagus. Left untreated, the acid may even eat away at the esophagus and cause serious damage. Treatment includes changing the diet to avoid trigger foods, losing weight if needed, medications, or even surgery.

Hemorrhoids are blood vessels around the rectum that become irritated, swollen or torn while straining during a bowel movement. They are most often caused by constipation, but can also be caused by pregnancy, diarrhea, or simply a genetic predisposition towards hemorrhoids. Treatment involves first treating any constipation issues, then keeping the area clean and soothed until it has healed. If these measures are ineffective, surgery is sometimes used.

Peptic ulcers are sores or spots of inflammation in the lining of the stomach or close to the stomach in the small intestine. Usually this area is coated with a protective lining that shields the tissue from the strong stomach acid, but a break in the lining can let acid in, causing the sores. It used to be thought that stress caused ulcers, but now it is known that is not the case. Most often, they are caused by an infection by H. pylori bacteria, but ulcers can also be caused by alcohol abuse or overuse of aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or other NSAIDS. The symptoms of an ulcer are pain, hunger, nausea, and fatigue.

Gastrointestinal problems, perhaps more than any other area, are markedly affected by lifestyle. Many disorders can be prevented or treated at least in part by eating a healthy diet high in fiber, exercising regularly, drinking enough water, and limiting alcohol intake. Still, the frequency of digestive disorders means that even the healthiest person can be affected by them. Anyone who notices blood in their stool, experiences abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, or any significant change in bowel movements should see a doctor.