Discussion Guidelines

Every Web site has its own rules, and these are ours. Please adhere to these guidelines so that we don’t have to edit or delete your posts or terminate your account.

If you can't be polite, don't say it. We do not intend to stifle discussion. Some topics require blunt talk, and we're not always going to agree with each other. Please try to disagree without being disagreeable. And, under no circumstances should you post anything that could be taken as threatening, harassing, sexist or racist.

Don't use obscenities even if the word in question is often used in conversation. This is a community-wide forum and we want everyone to feel comfortable participating.

Anything you post should be your own work. If you want to insert a link in your post to someone else's words or work, please make sure you have permission to do so.

Keep it concise. There is no word count on how long your comments can run, but remember, most readers will tune out after a 2-3 paragraphs. We recommend more frequent, shorter posts rather than one long rant. But if you do need to rant, we completely understand. (We reserve the right to edit for brevity and/or clarity.)

Please respect people's privacy. Do not publish other people's phone numbers or e-mail addresses without their permission.

But this is not a place for advertising, promotion, recruiting, campaigning, soliciting or proselytizing. We understand that there can be a fine line between discussing and campaigning; please use your best judgment.

Don't decide on a treatment or diagnose your condition using information you get here. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider who is familiar with your medical situation. Comments and the links people provide here are for informational purposes only. They shouldn't substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Ideas and testimonials concerning therapies, approved or unapproved, may not cover all possible uses, actions, precautions, side effects or interactions.