When I get up from sitting for a while, my knees crack. Why does this happen? Is this symptomatic of something I need to be concerned about?

It's time for me to get a physical.

Where I live, it's now common practice to get a pap every two years (as opposed to an annual pap) if your last 5 have all been normal. I normally get a general physical annually. Everything from blood pressure, blood (or other) tests if warranted, breast exam, flu shot if needed and a quick general chat about weight, exercise, lifestyle etc.

Do you?

i'm 17 years old and and an ovarian cyst in my right ovary for two years and got it removed recently. A while after the surgery I had a sex with my boyfriend and I am not sure if I i am or can be pregnant. Even if I am not pregnant why wouldn't why do I feel like I am?

It is important for kids to be physically active, and play individual or team sport(s) if they choose. What is the line between "sport" and "extreme sport", and if your child showed a preference for an "extreme sport", would you let them participate?

For instance, if you think about safety, would you allow your child play: tennis, baseball/softball, basketball, BMX bike racing, snowboarding, kid's motorcycle racing, football, ballet, chess (just kidding)...

I've heard more than once that adults who have frequent illnesses (like colds and infections) may want to think about getting their tonsils removed. Is there any validity to this?

What exactly are strawberry birth marks and why do they happen? Are they the same as port wine stains (marks)?

When my daughter was born she had very pronounced strawberry birthmarks on her face (especially between her eyebrows) and now they are gone unless she gets upset (she's a toddler now so she's upset a lot!!) and you can see a shadow of the old birthmark appearing - strange!

Will they leave completely or does they partly stay for life?

Ladies,

What hair care products or tips can you share with us that work for you?

I’m going to share my new secret shampoo and conditioner. I am loving it. Look for my post in the next few days.

Best in health,

Michelle

My favorite and most important person, My Mother, had breast cancer two years ago. She had a masectomy removing her left breast, which she also happens to be left handed.

My Mother is the kind of gal with an "S" on her chest for Superwoman, never complains and would never let you know that she can't do something. This past weekend, she came for a visit and I really noticed a drastic change in her. In every culture it is called 'PAIN'.

I would love to hear what you think about spouses who pull away, cheat and/or divorce their partner because of a serious or terminal illness …. Or if they’ve become disfigured.

Has this happened to someone you know?

It’s a subject that needs to be discussed.

I have very strong feelings on this subject and will blog on this topic in the next few days. But, would love to hear what your views.

Best in health,

Michelle

I have been hearing a lot about "free radicals". Is this "hype" or a real danger? They almost make is sound like free radicals are as dangerous in your body "traveling around" as a cancer tumor, that's why I'm wondering about the "hype" and "scariness factor"---are they as bad as they sound?

If so, what exactly are free radicals, and why are they so dangerous?