Yes there are.  I have found them at my local drug store. Walmart carries one called Similasan.  I have heard good things about these over the counter remedies.  Worth a try.

 Depending on whether the pink eye is viral or bacterial, you may need an antibiotic.  Viral responds well to home remedies and will go away within 3-5 days, bacterial will usually respond to an antibiotic within 24 hours. Check out the link at the bottom of the page for more info.

 Yes, they are widely available today.  They smell good too.  Think about wearing socks and clothes to cover you if it is not too hot out.  I wouldn't want to make a habit of using the sprays that contain poisons to kill bugs repeatedly on your skin.  Try the natural ones.  

 There are lots of new natural bug repellents on the market that work pretty effectively.  They can be strong smelling and need to be reapplied.  Read the ingredients and make sure they are entirely natural.

 You can make your own using essential oils available at any health food store.  The oils that work well against mosquitoes are cinnamon, lemon eucalyptus, regular eucalyptus, citronella and castor oil.  Citronella is best against biting flies and eucalyptus and rose geranium combat ticks and lice.  Orange oil repels fleas.  

Mix a combination of essential oils with a carrier oil or alcohol, I part oil to 10 parts carrier oil or alcohol.  You can use olive oil, sunflower oil or other cooking oil as your carrier or mix with witch hazel or vodka. Yes, I did say vodka but that seems like a terrible waste to me.

Rub or spray on skin, re apply frequently, like every hour.  You can also mix aloe vera gel to make it more like a lotion. 

The natural bug repellents can be found everywhere now, from your neighborhood health food store to the drug store and even your favorite garden center. They aren't as affective as the toxic repellents and you need to reapply frequently. They smell really great with ingredients such as peppermint, eucalyptus, lavender, lemon grass, lemon verbena, sage, and rosemary. You may even want to use it as a deodorant or a fragrance.

 Not many can if you are a true alcoholic.  It takes tremendous determination to become sober and often thinking you can just drink socially is a denial mechanism.  Good luck in your recovery from alcoholism or any addiction.

This is a tough question to answer. Recent studies show that it is possible for a person who suffers from alcoholism can recover and become a low-risk drinker.  I hesitate to even share this info, true alcoholics who adhere to the teachings of AA would say that these people were never really alcoholics to begin with.  There are several models for recovery, not just AA, and they don't all include life-long abstinance, but do talk to your doctor, your therapist your counselor.  I've listed a couple of articles below that may be more helpful.

 Pot is still illegal in most states unless you have a medical marijuana card.  Pot as well as alcohol and other drugs alter your mind and behavior.  With any of these, you need to be mature in the use and not to get yourself in a situtaiton that will cause you stress later in life. For example, arrest, inapproiate sex partners and driving while intoxicated. The question of smoking pot is one of personal choice and not one that I can easily answer for you. Whatever your decision is, be careful and safe.

Well yeah, you can, but it is illegal.  I have a lot of issues with the illegality, but the consequences are real.  In addition, unless you are growing your own, you don't know what you're really smoking.  Any drug that impairs perception and judgement, causes increased accidents and diminishes inhabitions can get you into trouble, so choose responsibly.  Stay safe out there. 

 I believe it can.  Touch is a powerful tool in healing stress.  It is worth a try.

Massage helps to relax tight muscles, lengthen tight muscles, and get your blood flowing, all things that help with recovery. Just realize that healing takes time, and follow your doctors' instructions concerning physical therapy and medication.

Yes, the long term results of the ipod generation on hearing are yet to be seen (or heard?), but it is predicted that those who listen to their ipod loud and often will pay a price in hearing loss later.

Everything effects your hearing and when you get to be our age you'll wish you lowered the sound on your ipod.

Yes, over long term it can.

I have realized that I listen to music in my car too loud and sometimes my ears feel a little numb when I am done with a long drive. I worry about the ipod generation and what the long term hearing damage might be for all the blasting of ipods. Share your music and don't close the world away with the headphones.

Everyone is different so it is not always easy to conclude but fatigue, withdrawal from social activities, crying, feelings of doom, sadness. Suicide thoughts need to be taken very seriously too.  If you are feeling suicidal you must reach out for some help.  There are suicide hotlines.  There are many medications used today that  a doctor can prescribe. There is hope.  You need to determine if you are clinically depressed.  It is normal to feel sad after a death of a loved one, a break-up, etc

Changes in sleep patterns, changes in weight gain, feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, low motivation, suicidal feelings. Depression should be taken seriously. If you or a friend is experiencing depression, you need to seek a professional to be evaluated.

Symptoms of depression include:

• Loss of interest in normal daily activities,
• Feeling sad or down,
• Feeling hopeless,
• Crying spells for no apparent reason,
• Problems sleeping,
• Trouble focusing or concentrating,
• Difficulty making decisions,
• Unintentional weight gain or loss,
• Irritability,
• Restlessness,
• Being easily annoyed,
• Feeling fatigued or weak,
• Feeling worthless,
• Loss of interest in sex,
• Thoughts of suicide or suicidal behavior,
• Unexplained physical problems, such as back pain or headaches.

Depression symptoms can vary greatly because different people experience depression in different ways. A 25-year-old man with depression may not have the same symptoms as a 70-year-old man, for instance. For some people, depression symptoms are so severe that it's obvious something isn't right. Others may feel generally miserable or unhappy without really knowing why.

Taken from the Mayo Clinic website,www.mayoclinic.com/an excellent source for more info including self-assessment. See a doctor, Contact a professional. We've all seen the commercials, if you have been feeling bad for a while with no real reason it may be a psychological depression.

Not wanting to go out with friends, low energy, low motivation to get your homework or job assignments done, losing your appetite, losing weight, gaining weight. Negative talk and cynicism, down on yourself, hopeless thoughts and feelings. Also check my answer to: How do I know the difference between just feeling blue and being depressed? I've been there myself. Things can improve if you take care of yourself and treat your symptoms, don't ignore them.

That is what they say. So choose sorbet instead of ice cream to soothe a sore throat.  Skip the grilled cheese.

Ask Michele

Yes, Stick to fruit juices, soup with broth, herbal teas and just plain water when you're trying to kick a cold or control an allergy. OK, Here is something funny. A study was done to discover if chicken soup really helped relieve cold symptoms. The answer is yes, and Campbell's regular Chicken Noodle proved the best. Maybe my mom really did know what she was doing.

Yes, there is a protein in dairy products that actually creates mucus. Drink plenty of water and warm fluids. I always thought that helped me. Herbal teas

Yes, a balanced diet is very important. If you are constipated take a look at your diet. You do not need to eliminate dairy products but be sure to balance this with plenty of water and foods high in fiber, (beans, greens, etc.).

Ask Michele but I am a big believer in yogurt, bran and apples every morning.

Yes, cheese is a big contributer, couple your dairy intake with plenty of fruits and vegetables. You won't have a problem.

Yes, they can. Actually, excess calcium can be a cause of constipation. This is an example of a supplement that you can take too much of. Calcium is also a major ingredient in antacids so beware. Young people are not as apt to be taking calcium (except, perhaps, if you have a broken bone) or antacids. Other things that can be a cause of constipation are inadequate water or fiber consumption (an apple a day), changes to one's routine, such as a long day of travel and stress. Also Pain medication and antidepressants can be causes too.

 For me there was a pinch involved depending where the needles are placed.  The pinch is not terrible.  Many have reported relief from acupuncture so it may be worth a try.

I did not like it.  I love massage therapy, reiki, assisted yoga and most other alternative treatments, but I did not like acupunture and yes, it hurt me, not a lot, but enough to convince me it wouldn't work for me.  Maybe it's the redhead pain thing, maybe I just saw the wrong person, but I won't go again soon. 

Just a little. Sometimes you don't even feel but a tap as the acupuncturist taps the needle in place. It has to go into the skin to a short depth to hit the nerves it needs to connect with.  I have recieved acupuncture treatment for everything from Bell's Palsy, muscle strains and ligament tears, to helping to alleviate stress and melancholy. With acupuncture and Rolfing treatments I discovered the interconnected-ness of the body. Sometimes when the needle is being applied to your wrist you feel it in your toe. Maybe that is the wrong connection, I'll have to check my chart and get back to you.

 My research says no to urine and maybe to vinegar.  Rinse off with hot water or at least salt water initially.  If you can check with the lifeguard on duty.

 Not really. Depending on the urine, it could even make it worse.  Vinegar is the best solution and lifeguards often have it on hand or use salt water, vodka, alcohol, but not fresh water, and urine could contain enough fresh water to cause the stingers to fire.

 YES!

Maybe address your friend's self esteem and give her support for the things he/she does that you sincerely admire and stay away from talking about food. Eating disorders are extremely serious and your friend needs to be seeing professionals for help.

Always be supportive to your friends when they are looking for your help, please look at Michele's answer for eating disorders.

I'm recommending NIMH website, National Institute of Mental Health, in addition to the National Eating Disorder Association. Eating Disorders are often treatable, but they are serious and treatment must be tailored to the individual. Only a group of Professional Medical and Psychological people can do this. You can help by encouraging your friend to get the help they need. Be calm, be firm, listen.

Point out what you have seen that has you concerned.

Be prepared to offer specific resources.

Set a date for the person to contact a professional, and a time to talk again.

DO NOT: Comment on your friend's appearance at all, ever.

DO NOT: Discuss nutrition,

DO NOT: Demand that your friend eat differently.

DO NOT: Try to shame your friend or embarrass them.

DO NOT: Allow your friend to make you feel guilty, foolish or responsible because you want to help.

DO NOT: Monitor your friend's eating behavior;

DO NOT: get intimidated;

DO NOT: be surprised if your friend denies the problem or becomes angry with you;

DO NOT: Let your friend dictate your eating behaviors. Your consistent care and friendship can provide the strength your friend needs to succeed.

(Taken from the NIMH website) www.nimh.nih.gov/and look up eating disorders

Be sensitive to their emotions. This an emotional response. An attempt at control. See Michele's response for website information. Try to be accepting and non-judgemental if they are able to talk about it. You could seek advice from a mental health professional. Do be very concerned.

 Sally has it right.  Very important to be aware but even more important to not follow strangers home if you are drinking.  Always go with a friend and leave with that friend.

Never accept drinks from strangers or people you do not trust. When accepting a drink, make sure it comes from an unopened container. Never put your drink down to go to the bathroom or dance. Take your drink with you or finish it. Get your own drink from the bar. Inform other women about date rape drugs. Have a designated non drinking person at the bar. Never leave your friends at a bar or party alone. Be careful how much alcohol you drink so you don't become prey. For more information contact National Women's Health - womenshealth.gov

 Sally's got the answer, but if you'd like more info we have done a couple of blogs on this that are linked at the bottom of the page.

 It could be difficult to tell.  If you are worried I would ask in a non-judgemental way if they are a friend.

It can sometimes be hard to tell. Different drugs have different effects and it depends on the dose and the user. There are common warning signs that may mean your friend is using. A distorted sense of sight, hearing and touch, dilated pupils, anxiety or paranoia, mood swings, faintness, and/or irrational behavior could mean that your friend is using. If you are worried about your friend, encourage them to stop and to seek help. You can call the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information at 800-729-6686 or visit www. ncadi.samhsa.gov.

If you are observing unusual behavior in your friend it could be many things, many different sorts of drugs can make one act unusual, talk funny. It isn't necessarily hallucinogens. If they are doing some crazy drug it will eventually wear off, but if the behavior reoccurs frequently then you might need to be concerned about a psychological cause. If you know this person well, then you know a little about how they act when drunk or stoned if they are recreational users. If this appears as paranoia or visual or auditory hallucinations, then you may want to look more closely. There are so many things that can challenge the psyche. Manic Depression, Schizophrenia ... many psychological disorders have their onset in adolescence or early adulthood. It is a great thing to be looked after by your friends. Even if it is a bad trip, a bad drunk, or other bad shit , look out for your friends. Your concern may piss them off, but there is so much loss of young lives by actions made "under the influence". I don't believe that doing drugs makes you a bad person, but it is something to be careful with. If exploring drugs of any kind do not drive a motor vehicle of any kind. Be careful who you are with, and call your friends if you are having a bad experience. Call your mother if there is no one else because no matter what you do, she loves you and would only want to help you ... she'll yell at you tomorrow or the next day.

The pregnancy tests you buy over the counter are very accurate, take one and believe it. Make an appointment with Planned Parenthood or a doctor early on to ensure a healthy pregnancy. If you are unsure about your options (adoption, abortion) Planned Parenthood can discuss this with you too. The main thing is do not delay.

Get a pregnancy test from the pharmacy. These test are very accurate. Also make an appointment with a gynecologist or doctor to confim.

You don't know for sure until you see a doctor, but over the counter pregnancy tests are usually pretty accurate.

OK ... you missed your period... # 1... Don't just assume it is late and worry until it comes because that could be a while. Then your breasts are a bit more full and tender. You perhaps feel a bit queasy in the car or anytime. Get a pregnancy test from the pharmacy. They are so easy. If you are afraid make your boyfriend go buy it. Going to a pharmacy where they don't know your parents might be something to think about if this is an issue. If you don't want to be pregnant PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE use birth control. Abstain if you don't have any. There are lots of fun ways to be sexual with out having actual intercourse. All that foreplay... enjoy that for a while. PLEASE be careful out there.

It is normal to feel blue after a sad event like a break-up, a death, etc., but depression is something that is ongoing and can interfere with your daily life. Talk about your feelings with an adult if you can. Seeing a counselor is a good way to help you cope with your feelings.

Everyone feels blue from time to time but depression can last for weeks and months and can interfere with everything in your life. If there is a family history, stressful events such as death, long term illness, drug or alcohol abuse or having recently given birth, this could put a person into high risk for depression. Always advise the person to seek professional help.

There is situational depression, it is normal following a great loss or let-down. Recovering from the death of a loved one can take years, but when depression keeps you from functioning, affects your family, your job, your schoolwork, and lasts for more then a few days, it's time to speak to a professional. Call your doctor, or a hot-line for direction. See your school counselor, if you have thoughts of suicide, get help right away. www.mayoclinic.com. Look up depression.

If it doesn't go away ... for weeks, months, if there is a cloud that seems to color your world gray and even when you make an effort you can not lift yourself out of the darkness even with your best friend telling you a funny joke, when you find yourself trying to talk yourself into getting up in the morning or getting up off the couch. When even your body might ache and your head feels bloated from too many negative thoughts or feelings. It is normal to feel a sadness and melancholy after a horrific experience, a tragic loss, loss of a family member, a long illness that you are fighting or a loved one is. If this feeling does not wane even with the company of your friends and family members who you usually enjoy?You may think you can fix it yourself once you have identified it, but not if it is a chemical depression. There are very useful antidepressant medications available today. Therapy is a great place to start. It can be helpful to talk to a therapist, they are a separate distant party, yet empathetic. They will keep your secrets and nothing you would tell them would be shocking to them. If it is a milder depression in early stages, there are several herbal remedies. Even acupuncture can be helpful. The acupuncturist will be able to suggest herbs to take, the health food store or herbal pharmacy has some good supplements available ... When beginning treatment of depression through antidepressants and therapy, even the herbal anti depressants, you must be patient and give it more than two weeks. It could take a month or more before you feel results. There can be side effects from these medications. Please do not use this as a deterrent. Give it time, stick it through. It could very well change your life in a month or two. Try another method if one doesn't work for you, but if it is going on still for months after trying different medications, pharmaceutical or herbal, you must see a doctor or therapist. Talk about it. Don't ignore it.

Just think smells good.....like fresh flowers.  Baking cookies or pies.  The smell of coffee. Lavender is for calm.  I  have heard citrus is good for staying awake.  Explore how different smells make you feel.

OK, I'm no expert on this, but I do know that sniffing an orange will help a headache, and I also know that when I smell good or my house smells good, it helps me feel good, if not physically, psychologically. We all know the feeling we get when we smell apple pie baking or a favorite food cooking. Some of us know what it's like to bring a fresh tree into the house at Christmas or walk past a lilac bush. Don't use the synthetic, commercially produced air fresheners, essential oils are available at your health food store. Find the scents that suit you best. You can usually get a diffuser where you get your oils, and there are different kinds. Mine is a small ceramic bowl that is heated by a candle. There are also rings, plug-ins and even one for your car. Another way to bring scent into your home is with flowers, and they also add color.  I like freesia, lilacs, lilies and roses and Jo will be able to name other great smelling florals. Scent your linen closet with herbs wrapped in cheesecloth or in a cotton pouch. Soak a cotton pad in essential oil and stick it in your pillowcase, or try tossing it into the dryer,  you can even put it in your vacuum cleaner bag. You can boil dried herbs in your kitchen or fill a spray bottle with water and a few drops of your favorite oil to scent the air. I sprinkle grapefruit or bergamot oil onto my wooden kitchen table and wipe it with mineral oil, so many ways to experience the power of scents. Enjoy!

 Stay off it.  Ice every 20 minutes.  It is important to go to the doctor to determine if there is a break because it is often hard to know without an expert or an Xray.

ICE- Ice, compression and elevation. Put your foot up, ice 20 minutes on and 20 minutes off.

We have ICE, we have RICE, and now we have PRICE.

Protection. Immobilize your ankle with an elastic wrap or splint to protect it from further injury. 

Rest. Avoid activities that cause pain, swelling or discomfort.

Ice. Even if you're seeking medical help, ice the area immediately.

Compression. To help stop swelling, compress the ankle with an elastic bandage until the swelling stops.

Elevation. To reduce swelling, elevate your ankle above the level of your heart, especially at night.

RICE.... Rest Ice Compression Elevation. Ice on and off like Sally says... try to stay off it as much as you can until it improves.

 The reason the law requires you to wait til your 16 is because they want you to be safe and feel driving takes a certain amount of maturity and responsibility not found in younger people.  The fact that you have disregarded the law and your parents shows that maybe you are not ready to understand how important it is to obey the law and respect authority.  When you do get your permit I would doubt that they would allow your sister to be in the car with you without a parent. This is to protect both of you.

Driving is serious business, it is never a game of what you can get away with. I think you should reconsider your actions and be grateful nothing worse came of it.  If you want to show your father that you are ready to drive than let him know you are aware you didn't use good judgement on taking the car without permission, disregarding the law and including your sister.  Let him know you will be ready when you are 16 to take the responsibilities of driving seriously and that you can be trusted.   The only way to do that is wait til you are 16 and let him know you get it and he is right and you were wrong.

Good luck and be safe.

 Your father wasn't over reacting. If you want to learn how to drive ask your parents to take you to a privately owned area and drive with them. If the police caught you underage driving without a permit, you wouldn't be able to get your permit and probably be charged with having your younger sister in the car with you. I know a fifteen year old who did the same and hit the gas instead of the brake and landed on his football coaches front porch with the car. Luckily no one was hurt in both cases but nice touch with the wave! 

 No Kayla, I don't think he is overreacting.  Driving without a permit is illegal, you need to learn to drive with an adult.  If you get caught, the police will charge you with driving a stolen vehicle, since your parents did not give you permission to take their car.  Your poor father! You are lucky he didn't crash his own car seeing you!  If it's that important to learn to drive, convince your family to move to Vt. You can get your learner's permit at 15 and you can even arm yourself with a hunting rifle.  Of course, you will also be expected to drive a tractor and work the farm.  Wait darling, you will have the privileges of being an adult soon enough, and all the responsibilities that come with them.

OH MY GOD! .... Really?

I am afraid for you. You could get into huge trouble if you just don't come to a complete stop at a Stop sign and get pulled over. You will not be able to get your license until you are 18 then if you are arrested for driving underage. It is almost as bad as being caught drinking and driving. Some one I knew had their license revoked for 3 simple  traffic violations at 17.   He hadn't opened the letter from the DMV yet when he got stopped for speeding again, he was taken in to the station and the car was towed and impounded. It cost a lot of money to get it out and he was put on probation for a year by the juvenile court. he was treated as a criminal ... like he had committed theft or was driving drunk.

Another thing is that you think you can drive? That doesn't mean that you know what you're in for. There are too many scary driving situations that can not be anticipated ... it takes practice. It isn't always you. You may be a good driver, but we learn to look out for the other driver.

You are GROUNDED! That is what I would say. For two months! ... and to risk your sister's safety also is very irresponsible. You would never forgive yourself if something were to occur to endanger both of you.

Relax and slow it down. You want your license, so do all that you can to find time to drive with your parents. Right now I would make you wait another couple of months. I could go on but I'll stop here...

Please be careful, but even before that be smart about it... and be honest with yourself and your parents if you want them to trust you in the future.

 You may have pink eye.  You can try the over the counter remedies found at your local drug store but pink eye often needs a prescription to heal.  You may have an eye infection that will respond to antibiotics.  These infections can be contagious and miserable.  Do not delay in finding treatment.

Could be Pink Eye, could be allergy, could be a corneal ulcer, call your doctor, don't mess with your eyes. 

You may have contracted Pink EYE or were you out in the snow on a very sunny day without sunglasses? Allergies and hayfever can also be a cause. Cat, dog, rabbit hair and dander, bird feathers and more can become potent allergens to you and come on at different times in your life. You may not have been allergic to anything then suddenly in your teens, in your 20's... anytime at all it can suddenly change.

Pink eye is very contagious. It usually takes a visit to the doctor for some antibiotics and eye drops to cure it. Think about being a considerate friend and abstain from hugs and kisses until after it has cleared up. Do get it checked. You can try going to the health food store or a holistic healing center. I purchase some eye treatment when I thought I was getting pink eye, but it later was a bizarre indication of the flu I had last year. Don't let it go long without having it checked out.

 It could be something as simple as an inner ear infection.  It can also be difficult to diagnose.  You should discuss this with a doctor.

This could mean an inner ear infection, low blood sugar, headache. This could be many things and it would be advisable to seek medical attention. Only a doctor can give you the proper tests to narrow down the reasons for your dizziness.

It means you must see a doctor.

Some times equilibrium is affected by an inner ear infection. It could also be low blood pressure. If dizziness persists, you should be concerned. Dizziness can also be a sympton of diabetes, high blood pressure, vertigo, dehydration, heart disease, even the onset of a fever with the flu. I used to react to high altitude with some dizziness .

Park your car far away, take the steps and clean the house.

Yoga or exercise tapes, walking, small weight exercises-constantly keep moving and don't sit down! I should take my own advice sometimes!

When I was young it was easy, I didn't have a car and walked everywhere, to work, to school, everywhere. Dance, put the music on when you clean and dance your way through or go dancing instead of to a movie. Take the stairs, lift, your groceries, the laundry, a child. Stretch, do it in the shower, or sitting at your desk, or watching TV. Sally is right, just keep moving. Make dates to walk, or play golf or tennis instead of lunch. You may be getting more exercise than you think, a gym is a luxury, but not a necessity.

If you are at college, or working and live near school or work, walk everywhere you can. If not, then use your free time to do athletic things with your friends: throw a frizbee in the park during a study break or lunch break. Roller skate or roller blade, skateboard( find the park near you), take a half hour walk every morning or every evening. I was in a hotel once and it was winter and snowy outside so I couldn't go for my morning walk and I sometimes like to avoid public gyms, so I walked up and down the stairwell in the hotel. It was an awesome work out.  Sex is a great work out, so if you have a boyfriend/girlfriend/partner be sure you are enjoying these benefits.  It is great for you!

 No, only a psychiatrist or family doctor can prescribe drugs.

No, a counselor is usually not a medical doctor and can't prescribe medicines. If he/she does, don't go to them anymore. If you're feeling depressed, you should seek counseling from a certified counselor and if they feel you are in need of antidepressants than they should refer you to a psychiatrist or a medical doctor.

You must see a medical doctor, Even a psychologist can't prescribe medication, although they might have alternative suggestions to medication. A psychiatrist does have a degree in medicine and can prescribe if needed.

If this is your question, please seek counseling right away. You need to see a medical doctor or a psychiatrist to get a prescription for an antidepressant. Most counselors will help you get in touch with a physician who can see you and will listen to their concern for your mental health needs. If this is just that you have the blues every now and then, I have found that the health food store has some herbal supplements that can get me through a blue couple of days... Ask at the counter and they are usually very helpful and they have recommendations from friends and customers. Don't be afraid to say how you feel. Everyone has down days... even your smilingest friend has their blue days. Talk to each other... that is sometimes all the lift you will need. Sometimes everything just weighs on you.... Somedays. If it doesn't go away please seek counseling. I have been through depression and the only way out was through counseling and antidepressants. I seem to have evolved out of that need, but it can really really improve your quality of life.

Make up is your friend if you can afford it...try some of the specific products on the market. If it's a rest issue then....GO TO BED early.  Take a look at what you are eating, is it a balanced diet?  I have heard this can be hereditary.  You may also have allergies.

If you have dark circles on an occasional basis then it's probably something to be with rest or nutrition. Try using a little cover up from the drug store.

I like the cucumber, and really, get well rested. I agree with Cindy on the make-up, but it doesn't have to be too expensive. Try the drug store cosmetics aisle first. They have a cover-up wand thingie for under your eyes.

Lay a nice slice of cucumber on your eye for a few minutes ... even a cool wet wash cloth laying on your eyes for a few minutes can help, but the cuke slices are the best. … another that I just heard from a friend, coconut oil is another great solution. Coconut oil is used for many body products.

 Try Tom's or any of the natural ones now readily available.  You can use cornstarch or powder.  

They have natural deodorants in the store now.

There is also a crystal that you can rub under your arms. I've been told it works well, and I didn't notice that it wasn't working on the friend who told me they used it.

I love my natural deodorants. I love the Weleda products. The lemon deodorant is my favorite. The sage is a bit too strong for me but perhaps nice on a man. I also love a light spray of lavender oil. When you start to get sweaty then the lavender fragrance comes out as your body warms up ... Sweet ...

 The rule goes the only thing you can change is yourself.  You can ask him not to smoke in your house but unless he asks for your support it is all up to him.

If you really like this guy, and smoking is an issue, you can't get him to quit just because it bothers you.  Let him know how you feel, are you scared for him or just annoyed by it? Everyone has bad habits, you can't change them, but you can show you are concerned. After that it's up to him, and you either leave because you can't stand smoking or love him in spite of it.  

There is nothing you can do. They need to want to quit themselves in order to do it. If they use you as a reason then it is a codependent purpose and the health of the relationship is questionable. Do not fall into sacrificing your needs for the sake of having a boy or girl friend. If you are bothered by the habit, then do not sacrifice your comfort for anothers. That again is codependant.

You can try a nose spray. I prefer the 4 hour one because the others are 12 hours and you may not need this. Benadryl will make you sleepy which may be a plus on long flights.

There are many good over the counter medicines that could help relieve congestion. Also you might try same nasal spray or nasal saline. Yawn or swallow to clear your ears during the ascent and decent of the plane. Also trying chewing gum and drinking lots of water during the flight.

Both systemic (taken orally) and topical (nose drops or nasal sprays) can be used to treat congestion. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also be used to help control discomfort. Try this to regulate the pressure in your ears:  hold you nose and try to for air through your closed mouth.  You'll hear and feel your ears pop when you do it correctly.

I can get congested on airplanes with all the closed spaces and recycled air on the plane and in airports. I like to carry Ricola or Lycerol pastilles. Lemon mint and Spearmint. Nice!

The chemical that causes the reaction, urushiol, isn’t easy to wash off. If you get to it in the first hour or so after exposure, soap and water may remove it. After that, it penetrates into your skin and binds to the proteins in your skin so that ordinary soap and water will have little effect in removing it.  Tecnu is the only brand I've found in researching this question that sometimes proves effective, expensive, but effective. 

There is a oily soap that you can find that helps to remove the oils. I use one called Tecnu in California. I am very allergic to poison oak and this has been very successful for me in preventing an outbreak when I know that I have touched it.

 You asked for an honest answer and so I will give you one.  First, I am concerned with the question.....how would you react/feel if your 21 year old son who got his 19 year old girlfriend  pregnant wanted to marry her?  It seems to me the question should read from you the 19 year old....how would you feel about your 19 year old daughter having a baby and considering marriage to her 21 year old boyfriend?  Make no mistake the main characters here are you and the baby.  The marriage is an important consideration with little to do with how a mother might feel about her young son's decision to marry.  Like it or not he is going to be a father and responsibility has come his way...and it sounds like he wants to do the best thing for you and the baby, and that I think this is a good thing.  It is apparent that you are questioning if marriage is the best solution at this time. I would say you are lucky to be born in a time when women can make more choices when it comes to unplanned pregnancy.  There is less social stigma for choosing to be a single parent.  Marriage is a big step and should be a decision about love and a commitment for forever.  You stated you are concerned about being left to raise the baby alone because of his demanding job and so I wonder if being a new wife to a young man who is unavaileable most of the time is in your best interest.  This baby will change your life so I suggest you not add marriage to the story until you feel sure it ts the right thing for both of you. There is no rush to get married.  What's important is your health and well being and future goals to support yourself and your baby.  Find the support you need, keep asking questions, and things will work out.  

 You have made a mature choice that will affect you for the rest of your life.  Before you get married, I would see if you boyfriend is as mature as you think he is. Do you have a safe place to live?  Are you living together yet and sharing expenses.  Are you working? Do you have health insurance for you and the baby. Have you worked out finances beyond the first year? Are you factoring the next 24 years supporting yourself and baby? What about schooling, doctors visits, housing, child care and ballet lessons? 

 Raising a child is not an easy task and you need to have a lot of support.  You say your parents are not in the picture?  Are they aware that you are pregnant? If not, you might consider telling them. Are they good people and you are just afraid to tell them.? If it's really not a possibility then check with the community health centers or churches that have support groups.   Please follow Michele's guidance about pre-natal care and bringing your baby home.

I can honestly say that I wouldn't be thrilled about one of my children getting married and having a baby in the teenage years. Having said that, it doesn't mean I wouldn't be a supportive parent to my child. Since you're against abortion and making this big step about having a baby, don't make the next step about getting married just yet. At this point, what's the rush? Try out how you get along raising this child together and after some time, when you're still in love, then get married. Take care of yourself. 

 It sounds like you and your boyfriend have already made some very tough decisions together, and that bodes well for the future.  You also say you want to keep your baby.  A child who is wanted is already starting out well.  Your boyfriend has a job that may keep him away from home more often then either one of you would like, but he does have a job and will be able to help you financially, another plus.  You ask how I would feel if my son got his girlfriend pregnant and wanted to get married.  My first reaction might be worry, but you are young adults, this is your decision. I think I would also be proud of both of you for taking responsibility for your actions. Then I would probably give you so much advice that you would wish I'd just shut up and go away.

Get all the help and support you can, make sure you have good pre-natal care, take your vitamins, eat right, don't take drugs or drink alcohol, give your child a head start in life. Get one of those pregnancy books that tells you what to expect when you are pregnant and how to take care of yourself and the baby.  There are hundreds of them and they can be purchased used. Try Amazon.  

Start thinking ahead about lamaze classes, breast-feeding vs. bottle-feeding, natural childbirth, epidurals, mid-wife vs. ob-gyn, and how and where you will live, cloth diapers or disposables. Will you work? What about childcare?  Can you afford it?  Do you want to finish school?  

I know, it sounds overwhelming, but people have been doing it forever.  The better prepared you are, the easier it will be.

Raising a child is hard work, but you don't seem to be romanticizing it or expecting it to be easy. My children have brought me more joy then I could have imagined, I didn't know you could love anyone this much.  Enjoy your pregnancy and your baby when it comes. Congratulations, and best of luck.

No, at 18 you can legally get a piercing. Because a piercing can in time leave a permanent hole think carefully about what could be a permanent impact on your body.

No, but try to make a good decision before you do it and tell your parents. No one really likes surprises and they probably will be okay with it (depending on what you're piercing).

No, You might want to mention it to them and see if they have any objections. If you're lucky, they might buy you an ornament. I just need to add that tongue piercings are really prone to infection and can be painful. Make sure you follow-up with after care.

It is legal to pierce whatever you want to at 18. Don't go crazy. Be thoughtful and just start slow.  You probably already have an ear or two pierced. If you want the big ear holes do your research. Ask some one you see and whose ornaments you admire and see if they have regretted any of their piercings. Have some of them been inconvenient, even gotten in the way of a job promotion because of criticism from a boss or client or customer in a work place. People who have piercings I have found to be very forthcoming in conversation about them. Janet Jackson even talked to Oprah about the recurring pleasure derived of having her nipples pierced. Compliments to someone whose piercings you admire are usually well received. Open up the conversation. Remember though, that your mother probably won't enjoy your new piercings. We moms still feel like that beautiful body we gave you is still a part of our own. Sorry, but we still want to protect you from the infections you may get from having a piercing jarred from time to time. Also I think that moms don't want you to be judged by others less open minded because of your appearance.

No, but parents have wisdom. The problem with tattoos is they never go away. Life has a habit of changing and skin has a habit of sagging. So think carefully before getting a tattoo.

You don't need permission but my advice is to not get a tattoo. If you want to have something temporary just a henna one.

No, no permission necessary, but if you have a good relationship with your parents, let them know what you're thinking about. They may have some advice and will appreciate just having been asked for input.

When you are 18 you can do it all except drink. Think about the tattoo. Get something that your mom might like. My son has some incredible tattoos, but I wish they were flowers and not skulls! They are very cool though, and I respect his right to express himself with this body art.

Yes, at least they claim to be. They can be expensive but can be worth the investment compared to the cost of dental services never mind the pain of it all. Dental hygiene should be a priority in your life as you only have one set of teeth to hopefully take you through your lifetime. Your smile is important for your self esteem and confidence. I would say buy a good toothbrush if you can afford it.

Make sure you brush several minutes and floss but I do think the electric does a better job in hard to reach places.

I just started using an Oral B and love it. They leave your teeth feeling really clean. You do need to floss though, and an old fashioned toothbrush used regularly with floss and regular dental visits for cleaning is effective.

Yes, my dental hygienist thought I was flossing really well and told me what a great job I was doing and I sat quietly and didn't tell her that I really didn't floss, it was all the Oral B electric.

The answer is maybe, there is some disagreement as to how dangerous they can be. The real culprit is Bisphenal A (BPA) a synthetic chemical that interferes with the hormonal messaging system and has been linked to breast and uterine cancer, miscarriage and decreased testosterone levels. BPA is found in Nalgene water bottles, many baby bottles and sippy cups. Experts agree that the amount that could be released with normal use is probably small, but are worried about the cumulative effect of small doses. My advice would be to switch to stainless steel or glass in a padding to protect against breakage.(Aluminum could come with it's own health risks). As for the water bottles you buy in the grocery store, there is concern about them too, for different reasons, but I think the biggest concern may be the number that end up in the landfill.

I have heard that there is evidence from actual plastic material (BPA) turning up in breast cancer patients when tumors and breast material is removed. That speaks to me! I am afraid. Get your nice metal water bottle to carry with you. The environment will be joyous of all the plastic bottles that won't make it into her seas.

Plenty of sleep, I think, is key to staying healthy, vitamin c and zinc, exercise, fresh air, and wash your hands often.

Take a lot of Vitamin C and echinacea and drink a lot of water. Make sure you get sleep and don't drink alcohol when you're sick. Wash you hands!

Wash your hands a lot. And now my husband, the doc, tells me that Vitamin D is the new magic bullet for colds and flu.

Getting enough sleep and eating healthy foods is preventative. Also, be sure to find time for some exercise. Drink plenty of fluids even when you are well because the body can rid itself of toxins more easily with more fluids available. And now I am washing my hands way more when I travel with this newest Swine Flu everywhere. Don't forget when traveling to wash your hands when you get to your destination.

Try some baby powder or scented dryer sheets in your shoes.

If it's your shoes that stink, sneakers worn with no socks will do that, you can freeze them, put them in a big plastic bag, and stick them in the freezer, it helps. Wear socks, except with sandals.

If your feet are stinky  there are ways to get rid of the odor. Perhaps the easiest remedy is to wash your feet with antibacterial soap and make sure you dry them really well.  This keeps bacteria from breeding on moisture that can be left behind. You can also soak your feet in green or black tea, vinegar, or ginger and baking soda to cut the odor. Some grocery stores also carry foot spray that can reduce smell.

Baby powder. New insoles. Gold Bond powder.

This needs to be taken seriously. Find the suicide prevention line number and pass it on. Notify parents if you feel they might need to know. Keep communication open...this can be a challenging time to be a friend because your friend, you may feel, is so attention seeking...but they may need your support more than you think...try to explore just how much pain they are in.

Take it seriously. Suicide effects everyone around them. If this is a real threat, call 911 immediately. There are also suicide hotlines in every town. Another resource is the Society for Teen Suicide Prevention and the website is www.sptsnj.org

Take it seriously, call the suicide prevention hot-lines yourself and ask how you can help your friend. There are people who use the expression lightly, but it's not worth taking a chance if you have any doubts about how serious they might be.

Ask them not to play with those words ... it scares you ... Be watchful. Some people use these words cynically, and think nothing of it ... just being funny ... NOT Funny! Not in this world where too many people we love are lost in depression and don't know how to ask for help.

 I am sorry to hear that you have what seems like a bombardment of heartache and stress in your life.  A divorce, a young sister with cancer ,and a heart attack is certainly a lot to get through.  You must feel an array of emotion and I get a sense that fear must be part of that.  Fear about how to manage moving forward with less stress and guilt with this decision about taking your sister without jeapordizing your own strides.

The dilema lies in chosing what would be right for you.  I feel this is a decision that must come from your heart.  As far as stress goes there is no escaping that a sister with cancer is a tough and stressful reality whether she lives with you or not.  

Evaluate what strengths you do have....I see you are a woman who has a relationship with a sister who loves you enough to feel your home is her home, 4 neices and nephews willing and available to help,  a  new love in your life, and a healthy recovery from a heart attack.  You have got yourself in counseling and you are commited to what seems like a lot of soul searching to move forward.  These are real blessings that I'm sure you had a part in creating.

There are many people out there (myself included) who will tell you there is joy to be found in the loving act of taking care of someone you love.  It is not necessarily a sentence of losing yourself, infact it often can lead to finding yourself, your strength and character.  There are many resources available to you and your sister outside of family, and you would need to utilize them to make this work.  Your biggest challenge would be coping with the balance of successfully managing your work from home job, your relationship with your boyfriend, and staying healthy.  These will be the same challenges whether or not your sister lives with you.

I say you need to explore strategies to make this work and if you come up with that it is impossible then you must lose the guilt.  I imagine your sister is asking you for your love not your life.  I wish you strength and peace in this difficult passage of your life.

 I'm sorry to hear about your sister with cancer and your own struggle with a heart condition.  Life is busy and  full of hurdles.  Taking care of a sick loved one is extremely hard, emotional and financially.  I think you need to talk to your sister and tell her your concerns about her living with you again.  You should both consider your health issues and how they will be impacted by living together.  Maybe you could come up with a solution for both of you.  Your sister is probably feeling very lonely and scared.  You are already feeling guilty, can you image if she didn't live with you and something happened to her? She's your sister and life is precious and short. Take care of her.

 I'm sorry,you really have so much to cope with right now.  I'm glad to see you are getting counseling and I get the guilt aspect.  I have been through similiar circumstances, with my great-aunt, my mom and my brother.  They all needed care for extended periods. You say you have four neices and nephews who care for their mom on a "rotating" basis. Does this mean she is moving from place to place?  Sounds like your sister got great care when she was with you and considers you her home.  Easy to understand if it's been the only stable setting since her illness, but you do have to take care of yourself.

Start thinking about alternatives, Perhaps a small apartment near you, or an extended care facility?  I know, money is always an issue in these cases, but if her children have been caring for her in turn, they may be willing and able to contribute financially. Work together, that always made things easier for us.  We made decisions as a group, each member outlining what they were capable of doing. Think outside the box and have your sister be a part of the discussion, Perhaps a place near one of them is a better alternative.

You can't do this by yourself, and while you might feel guilty, you need and deserve help. Check out the local agencies that might offer assistance.  The hospital social worker may be able to work with you and the family.  When my aunt was sick, my brother sent a letter to anyone he thought could help, her friends, her church, older cousins.  We were surprised by the outpouring of offers, one friend, a nurse who lived near-by, said she coudn't afford to help financially, but would stop by on a regular basis to check on her and have a cup of tea.  Her church raised money for a hospital bed and other necessary supplies.  Really, don't take this on alone, and don't feel guilty.  Just do what you can.  I think your sister just needs a place she can call home and if you or her family can help her find that place and live out her life with dignity, you'll all feel better. 

It's a good idea especially if you're living with several people in a dorm/apartment or travel a lot, your chances of getting the flu increase. When you get the flu the first time, you'll never want to have it again-it really knocks you on your ass! You might want to check out the government website on flu. flu.gov

Doc says yes, I didn't listen for years, then I got the flu and my mother-in-law came to help with the kids. I've gotten the shot every year since and haven't had the flu again. I do think I get a mild cold following the shot, but it's nowhere near as bad as the flu itself. Jo is right about immunity, being sick and fighting it off will give you a greater immunity. If you are healthy to begin with you have a better chance of being able to combat the flu, but really, it's terrible!

The fact is that there are over 36,000 flu related deaths and 200,00 flu realted hospitalizations every year. I have only had the flu shot a few times. As a child in a large family, we caught everything, so I think I have a better immunity as an older middle aged adult because of all the exposure. Your immunity to flus does improve as you are exposed to the flu by either getting sick from it or getting the immunization. When there is a new strain of flu such as we have now with the swine flu , you do not have a past immunity built up for this one ... it would be wise to get this new shot. I would think that if you had one every 3 to 4 years ... ASK YOUR DOCTOR .

We all use them but be careful with Qt-ips, they can slip into your ears and puncture your ear drum.

I use Q-tips for make-up, do not stick them inside your ear. Use a washcloth. If you have wax build up, a doctor can remove it. Be carful about putting anything in your ear.

Q-tips are a great invention.

Vomiting, binge eating, obsessive preoccupation with weight and body and exercise

MIchele did a lot of research on this question so check out her answer.

mayoclinic.com has a page dedicated to the symtoms and warning signs of eating disorders as do most of the sites dedicated to this serious problem. They include; for anorexia nervosa;

• Skipping meals
• Making excuses for not eating
• Eating only a few certain "safe" foods, usually those low in fat and calories
• Adopting rigid meal or eating rituals, such as cutting food into tiny pieces or spitting food out after chewing
• Weighing food
• Cooking elaborate meals for others but refusing to eat them themselves
• Repeated weighing of themselves
• Frequent checking in the mirror for perceived flaws
• Wearing baggy or layered clothing
• Complaining about being fat

Emotional and behavioral symptoms of bulimia may include:

• Constant dieting
• Feeling that you can't control your eating behavior
• Eating until the point of discomfort or pain
• Self-induced vomiting
• Laxative use
• Excessive exercise
• Unhealthy focus on body shape and weight
• Having a distorted, excessively negative body image
• Going to the bathroom after eating or during meals
• Hoarding food
• Depression or anxiety

Emotional and behavioral symptoms of binge-eating disorder may include:

• Eating to the point of discomfort or pain
• Eating much more food during a binge episode than during a normal meal or snack
• Eating faster during binge episodes
• Feeling that your eating behavior is out of control
• Frequent dieting without weight loss
• Frequently eating alone
• Hoarding food
• Hiding empty food containers
• Feeling depressed, disgusted or upset over the amount eaten
• Depression or anxiety

One physical appearance of a bulimic can be puffy cheeks, as the face contorts when forced to regurgitate and if this has been going on for a while, then it develops muscle differently in the face. Beware of friends who are thin yet wearing their clothing too baggy and who seem to always be checking themselves out in the mirror and are thin, but to themselves and in conversation, never satisfied with their appearance and never thin enough. I always thought that the overeating disorder gets a bad rap. People just think you should control your food habits and that you are lazy so you got fat. It is an addiction and although it is not as life threatening as binge/purging and anorexia, and even drug or alcohol dependency, it is an obsessive behavior that affects your self image and your happiness.

The flu can be confused with allergies...but generally the flu includes fever, body aches, runny nose, headache. Certain flus are stomach related and diarrhea and vomiting. Flus are contagious unlike allergies.

Stuffy head, sore throat,headache, fever, body aches. Feeling like you've been hit by a truck. There is also an intestinal flu with vomiting and diarrhea.

 All types of flu can cause:

Head ache , light headedness , body aches , chills (fever), cold be stuffy head and congestion depending on the kind ... sometimes this stuffy head comes later .

Different sizes of band-aids and sterile gauze bandage, gauze tape, adhesive tape, cotton swabs, thermometer, tweezers, pain and fever medication (tylenol), antihistamine, antibacterial cream, hydrocortisone cream.

 Anatomy of a First Aid Kit

Bandaids, an antibacterial ointment such as neosporin, or bacitracin to prevent infection of cuts and scrapes. Sterile gauze pads and a roll of gauze. Adhesive first aid tape for taping to the skin and taping the gauze together. A type that is easy on the skin is a good choice. Paper tape possibly, yet it sometimes comes off too easily. Ace type bandages. for wrapping strained or sprained wrists, ankles, knees. Instant cold and instant hot packs. (I used to carry these in the car when my skateboarding son was young, along with an ace bandage and the gauze and neosporin). Tylenol or advil...even aspirin. Of course, if you travel in the desert a lot, I would say a snake bite kit would be important .

STD stands for sexually transmitted disease......sometimes symptoms may not be present, so it is important to be tested for STDs if you are sexually active..responsibility goes with adult behaviors like having sex. Condoms are so important to protect you from STDs and pregnancy

Sexually transmitted diseases-caused by viruses,bacteria and fungi-spread through sexual contact. Symptoms can be itching around the vagina or penis, discharge, pain during sex or urinating, flesh colored genial warts, rash, small blisters, dark urine, light-colored stool, unusual infections, unexplained fatique. You must see a doctor immediately and notify your sexual partners if you have a positive conformation of STD. Types of STDs are HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia. Also go to mayoclinic.com

The rest of the mom's have it down. Protect yourself by using condoms and don't keep it from your sexual partners. Get tested if you suspect an STD. And see a doctor.

STD ... Sexually Transmitted Disease … It could be a good idea to educate yourself with these and know the symptoms. Even someone you know and trust may have one and may choose not to embarrass themselves by telling you and may be unwilling to be considerate enough to abstain from sex with you knowing they are contagious at the time. Even using a condom can not prevent the contagion of some of these such as scabies, warts and herpes, when the sores or parasites are still exposed to your skin. I wondered if that is why there is so much of this removing of genital/pubic hair as the current fashion, to be able to see any sore or to keep the bugs away ... a home for the fleas and spidery pests?

Missed period, sore and tender breast, fatigue, emotional swings, nausea

Missed period is usually the first indicator. But some women don't miss a period or, in some cases don't have regular periods anyway. You know all those stories of a girl giving birth and not knowing she was pregnant? They happen. If you are feeling tired, irritable, nauseous or just different and could be pregnant, check with a doctor. Even if you aren't pregnant, there might be something else going on.

Some symptoms are very like being premenstrual: tender breasts, emotionally sensitive, moodiness. Queasiness and nausea is a key to make you think ... is it the flu or something I ate?. or am I pregnant?

Burning sensation while urinating and persistent urge to urinate. Cloudy and strong smelling urine. Pain while urinating. Go to the doctor and get a urine test to confirm. You'll need medication.

Ditto Sal, drink plenty of water and cranberry juice, the real stuff is better than the cocktail, to stay more comfortable until your doctor's appointment.

If you have the feeling that you have to pee and you just did then you may have a urinary tract infection. Burning sensation while peeing also. Drink plenty of fluids, make a doctors appointment or go to your local Doctors On Duty or campus medical clinic ... And forget the tight jeans until it's remedied.

Dizzy, disoriented,hot and cold sweats,confusion,nausea, difficulty speaking, low blood pressure, passing out. When mixed with alcohol (which happens in most cases) it is very dangerous with blackouts and memory loss from 8-24 hours.

Call the dentist.  There is a waxy substance flavored with clove, (clove dulls pain), you can get at the pharmacy to temporarily stick in the hole, but we are talking really temporary.  Get to a dentist as soon as possible. 

 Sally has the details.  It is designed for women who had unplanned unprotected sex to  a produce a period.  

The morning after pill is an effective and safe pill to be taken in an emergency when you have unexpected, unprotected sex. This pill will begin your period. It should be taken within 5 days of unprotected sex. Can be purchased at heath centers or drugstores without a prescription over the age of 17. If you're under 17, you need to go to your personal doctor or health center. The brand names for emergency contraception are Plan B One Step and Next Choice. For more information on the morning after pill go to plannedparenthood.org.

 Toxic shock is a serious condition caused by toxicity in the body.  It has been associated with irresponsible tampon and diaphragm use.  Fever is associated with this.  A doctor must be called if you are worried about toxic shock.

Serious bacterial infection, linked to tampons, contraceptive sponges and diaphragm. Symptoms are high fever, faint feeling, diarrhea, muscle aches. Seek medical help immediately and call 911.

 This has always been a personal decision to find a birth control that is right for you.  There is the pill, the iud, the patch.  Talk to your girlfriends for valuable feedback.  Planned parenthood can give you a prescription for birth control and also advise you.

There are many varieties of birth control pills as well as IUDs and patches. Check out the Planned Parenthood website for a list of effectiveness and pros and cons of all the birth controls.

Pills, IUD's, abstinence, Diaphragms. Patches. Call Planned Parenthood or visit your doctor. Learn the pros and cons of each method and then decide what's right for you.

So many choices! The pill, other pills( the morning after pill if you were stupidly careless and over out-of-controllably passionate ), the diaphragm ( to be used with spermicide), the IUD, the vaginal condom ( whatever that means ), the Sponge... does that still exist( there is a great Seinfeld episode about the sponge ). Visit your doctor if you are comfortable talking to him/her or a local clinic( colleges have a student health center )or Planned Parenthood clinic for advice. Planned Parenthood has wonderful sensitive people to help advise you.

 Benadryl can be good for stings.  I keep Tums, advil, nasal spray.  

Advil, Benedryl, nasal saline, antibacteria cream

I like the herbal remedies for colds and flues : if you have been with friend who later comes down with a cold , you can try some of the Chinese herb supplements to protect you from the onset . At first symptoms of a cold I like to take Yin Chiao , a combination of Chinese herbs . Also Echinacea and I have found a combination of these together . The is also a product call Jade Screen which is another Chinese herbal blend for battling an onset of illness . These things are not proven , but I am a believer .So I like to keep the Yin Chiao/ echinacea complex and the Jade Screen in case of colds or flu symptoms, chamomile tea or tincture of passion flower or California poppy for a sleep challenged night( I keep these on the night stand). An ibruprofen pain reliever that can also reduce swelling to an injury.

 I like aloe vera.  If you grow this wonderful plant you can squeeze its healing juice directly on your skin. Stay out of the sun and allow your skin to heal.  If you have chills and are feverish you may have sun poisoning.

Aloe vera-if you have a bad one then cold milk compresses-If it's really bad, call the doctor- Michele also has had a few sunburns in her life so check out her answer.

OH, I'm good at this one. A serious sunburn, and if you are as fair as I am, you've had one, can be dangerous, call a doctor if you are badly burnt. You will probably only let that happen once, but be careful. One of the worst burns I ever got was in the middle of winter watching a snowboard competition. The reflection of sun on snow did me in. Take a cool shower or bath as soon as you realize you've been burnt, no soap, not too long, too much water will dry your skin even more. Pat dry, don't rub. Take an analgesic, acetaminophen, or anti-inflammatory medication, ibuprofen, for pain. Aloe-Vera to moisturize and heal. You can get 100% Aloe lotion at the health store or pharmacy.  If you use the plant just break off a stalk, slice it open and rub the inner part on your burn. Put on loose fitting, soft clothing. You may get chills, so keep a nice cozy blanket near by. Green tea or peppermint tea compresses can help, as will the milk. I go with luke warm, I always get chills with sunburn. You should feel better the next day, sunburn peaks at about 24 hours. And don't let it happen again.

I rely on aloe vera gel. I keep some at home for kitchen burns also. Apply like a lotion. let it dry. apply several time. Alloe vera juice in a bath also.

 A fever is for sure something you should never ignore.  If you have strange symptoms call the doctor.  If you're sure it is the flu you can wait.   If you don't improve though you should call the doctor.

Call your doctor and tell them your symptoms over the phone. They will tell you if you need to come in for an appointment. You could have an infection that needs an antibiotic but it could also be the flu.

Call the doctor!   

I sometimes wait a bit too long ... 3 days is what I wait for ... I worry on the 4th day . If you have an earache or sore throat with the fever, that can get exponentially worse if not treated. An earache or a sore throat that could be a strep throat are very scary and can be more difficult to recover from if left untreated.

 I have had my share of these.  If you feel you may be getting one than start flushing it out right away with all the fluids you can stand.  If you are already in pain I find a prescription is necessary.  This can be a painful condition that needs attention.  You can try holistic remedies and I know there are many.  I was not lucky with any of the,.  A bath can be very soothing.

Go to the doctor and have a urine test. If it is positive for an UTI, they will prescribe a course of antibiotics and a pain medication that numbs your bladder.

Cranberry juice, lots and lots of water and call your doctor.  If you have a UTI, it could be dangerous and you may need an antibiotic 

Drink plenty of fluids. I was always told that cranberry juice is good for the kidneys, yet it is not a cure.

 There is help for this and Michele mentions some valuable websites.  Try to encourage your friend to seek help.  This can be very complicated as there is often shame and fear and often a reluctance to leave or press charges.  

If the abuse just occurred, do not leave your friend alone, call 911 for an emergency, treat any injuries. If you're not sure then some signs of abuse are, frequent complaints of pain, broken bones, unexplained cuts and bruises, bleeding, depression.

I'm sending you immediately to The National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence website. If you suspect your friend is being abused, she/he probably is and you will need help dealing with it. The website is linked below. If that is not helpful, try these tips from the NEW YORK STATE OFFICE for the PREVENTION of DOMESTIC VIOLENCE;

I think my friend is being abused by his/her girlfriend/boyfriend. What should I do?

If you think that a friend is in an unhealthy relationship or is being abused, you may want to talk with them to find out for certain.

Your friends are often more open to talking with you than with school counselors or parents about dating violence. Prepare yourself by learning about teen dating violence and then talk to your friend.

• Offer support and just listen

• Help her or him develop a plan to keep him or her safe

• Encourage them to do activities with friends and family

• It’s okay for you to tell her or him that you are afraid for their safety

• Respect the decisions that they make; this may include their staying in the relationship

If you are afraid that they won't talk about it or if you have tried and they have denied it and you are very concerned, try to stay near. If you can catch it you can at least stop the lie. Your friend may then see the reality when this is witnessed by others. One can always deny what others can't prove. You can also talk to the abuser if you catch them. I have done this with a friend, and he was embarrassed and did not really see how his anger and rage was so out of control. He then retreated. He became aware of his actions and looked at what he was becoming. You have the power to help friends make positive changes in themselves. Don't stand by and let the madness continue. Anger escalates.

 Do not shower.  You will need documentation and proof of the rape.  Speak to a professional like the police for guidance immediatley after.  Know it was not your fault.

If you are pressing charges then you should call the police, call a friend or relative, go to the emergency room. Do not take a shower, change your clothes, do not brush your teeth, eat or drink, try not to urinate.

 First,Call 911

This is one of those questions that we are not equipped to answer.  As a mom my first response would be come home now, let me wrap my arms around you, tell me who did this to you and I'll go out and kill him.  Wrong answer. I took this from RAINN; The nation's largest anti-sexual violence organization  

Find a safe location away from the perpetrator. Ask a trusted friend to be with you for moral support.

Know that what happened was not your fault.

Preserve all evidence of the attack.

Do not bathe, wash your hands, brush your teeth, eat, or smoke.

If you are still in the location at which the crime occurred, do not clean or straighten up or remove anything.

Write down all the details you can recall about the attack and the perpetrator.

Report the attack to law enforcement immediately (local authorities can be reached by calling 911 in most areas of the U.S.)

If you want more information, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotlines (800.656.HOPE or online.rainn.org). A counselor can help you understand the reporting process.

Seek medical care as soon as possible. Even if you do not have any visible physical injuries, you may be at risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted disease (women may also be at risk for pregnancy).

To find a local hospital or healthcare facility that is equipped to collect forensic evidence, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline (800.656.HOPE). The hotline will connect you to your local crisis center, which can provide information on the nearest medical facility, and in some instances, send an advocate to accompany you through the evidence collection process.

Ask the health care professional to conduct a Sexual Assault Forensic Exam (SAFE).

If you suspect you have been drugged, request that a urine sample be collected to preserve evidence.

Recognize that healing from an attack takes time. Give yourself the time you need and know that it is never too late to get help.

For free, confidential help 24/7, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotlines (800.656.HOPE or online.rainn.org).

I've listed their website at the bottom of the page.

Please ask for help. Go to a clinic or your health care provider immediately. Tell your parents, tell your friend ... let them help you. Do not shower. Do not wash your clothes. If you were forced into oral sex especially do not drink or eat or brush your teeth. If no one is around that you trust go to an emergency room and they will be there to help you even with counseling. Do whatever you need to do to remember who did this. You do not want them to be able to hold this over you if it is someone you know. You take your power and use it to be sure they are not going to get away with hurting someone else or get away with hurting you. Try to gather the strength to go to the police. You do not want this person to do this to others.

 Rest, stay hydrated, and remember you are contagious so it is more responsible not to go to work or school.

Get plenty of rest and fluids, make sure you don't dehydrate.

Fluids, sleep, acetaminophen or ibuprofen, go to bed if you can, wash your hands so as not to spread germs and wait it out. Tamiflu within the first 2 days may shorten the duration. Next year, consider a flu shot.

If you have the flu, get plenty of rest, drink fluids. If you are vomiting and it is hard to keep fluids down remember to just sip the fluids. The stomach is sensitive so don't throw a lot of anything into it. Ginger ale is one of my flu aids. Ginger is a stomach soother. Some times a cool cloth on your head when you are feeling like your head is exploding with fever and an axe is splitting it. When you are coming out of the symptoms and need something in your stomach, try regular old school soda crackers or those little oyster crackers and sips of water or ginger ale. I use a Chinese herbal remedy product called Jade Screen if I am aware at the first sign of flu symptoms. Also a product named Zong Gan Ling.

Any moisturizing cream (vaseline, mineral oil, moisturizer) and a cotton sock.

My husband has this problem. He's OK in the summer, when the weather is humid and great when we visit some tropical place, but, living in Vt. , those long winters and dry heat do him in. He sometimes fills a tub with lotion and soaks while watching TV, then pat dry and cover with Cotton socks.  

Update here!!!  Bag Balm  worked miracles, Thanks Joanna.

Look for bag balm at the drug store . It comes in a cute green tin and it is actually for Cows udders , but works well on feet . .the other mothers didn't think that cracked feet is a common problem , but I have gotten them all my life ...especially in the summer when out in the garden alot with open shoes on ... Apply liberally to feet and put some old socks on .Even go to bed with the socks and balm on . Vermont Country Store has a great sock especially for healing cracked feet .

 Osteopath are doctors with an DO credential instead of MD.  They share a philosophy of treating the whole person..mind and body.  They are trained to practice more holistic medicine.

 Good for you that you remembered you ate beets.  Yes, beets can tinge pee and poop pink.

 Beets are super red so everything turns pink in the toilet.  Your poop also turns pinkish red.

 Normal, as long as you've been eating beets.

 It is no mystery...the morning after.  Do not wait to see if you skip a period.  If you suspect you may be pregnant this pill is recommended for the morning after unprotected sex.

Right away, do not delay-within 5 days. There is also something called plan B that is sold at the drugstore for anyone over the age of 17. This needs to be take within 72 hours. Some even say to have emergency contraceptive on hand in case of a condom break or a skipped pill.

OH, I'm gonna go with the morning after, as soon a possible, it does work best if taken within 12 hours of unprotected sex, but check with your doctor or the pharmacist. Different pills will work for longer periods.