Contractions of the uterus herald the first phase of labor. Contractions, also informally called "labor pains," are associated with gradual dilation of the cervix. Sometimes women may mistake other causes of abdominal pain for true contractions of the uterus. These other causes of pain are known as "false labor pains"
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A slightly higher than normal body temperature is common during pregnancy because of the hormone progesterone and increased metabolism. On the other hand, an infection or illness can cause your body temperature to increase too much, causing harm to you and your unborn baby.
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In a 9-month-old, a fever is usually due to a viral infection or the common cold, according to MayoClinic.com. As the body fights the infection, her body temperature rises. If your 9-month-old has a fever, it’s important to keep her hydrated and watch for warning signs.
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When you sustain an injury, fluid collects in the area and causes swelling -- if enough fluid collects, it can cause increased pain. A common therapy regimen known as RICE -- rest, ice, compression and elevation -- can be applied to treat minor injuries such as sprains, strains and bruises.
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Magnesium is available in many foods, such as nuts, beans and grains, and in multivitamins that contain minerals. People with low levels of magnesium or with certain health conditions benefit from magnesium supplements. Commercial magnesium preparations also are available for use as antacids and as laxatives.
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Potassium is an essential nutrient that plays a role in regulation of heart rate, muscle contractions and digestion of food. Too many or too few infection-fighting white blood cells, according to Medline Plus, can indicate the presence of infection as well as other health conditions.
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Pineapple can often cause minor skin irritations because it’s highly acidic. The fruit -- or the juice -- can cause your tongue to feel gritty, itchy and mildly painful shortly after eating. If you develop severe pain, itching, burning or swelling in your tongue from eating pineapple, you should talk with your doctor.
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Cholesterol and cholesterol esters are more similar than they are different; however, when considering their similarities several distinctions begin to arise. Cholesterol esters are derived from cholesterol itself.
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From infancy to late life, nutritional needs change. Children must grow and develop, while older adults must counter the effects of aging. The importance of age-appropriate nutrition during all stages of the life cycle cannot be overlooked.
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Valerian root is an herb that is commonly used for many conditions, such as insomnia, anxiety, headaches and upset stomach. It can be used alone or in combination with other herbs.
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Metabolism is one of many ways that animals and plants stay regulated. If there were no metabolism, we wouldn't have a steady body temperature or energy level, conditions we take for granted. Sometimes, metabolic rates vary or fluctuate, and this can be because of genetics, lifestyle or certain diseases.
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A colonoscopy is a physical examination of the large intestine and rectum. Colonoscopies help doctors to investigate unexplained changes in a patient’s bowel habits, weight loss and abdominal pain. They are also used to screen for cancer.
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When it comes to gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, the word “severe” is in the eye -- or chest, as it were -- of the beholder.
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Anorexia is a serious eating disorder characterized by a refusal to maintain a body weight within 15 percent of your ideal weight.
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The menstrual cycle follows a precise pattern governed by the release of different hormones that interact with one another. Progesterone, whose production increases in the second half of the menstrual cycle, plays a pivotal part in preparing the uterine lining for implantation of an embryo.
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The shoulder can rotate to 180 degrees, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. This flexibility, however, also makes the shoulder susceptible to injuries and pain. Rotator cuff tears, clavicle fractures and dislocations may require surgical intervention for repair.
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The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research estimates that 500,000 Americans experience their first cold sore every year. For most, the first episode is also the last. A smaller number---between 20 and 40 percent--suffer recurrent episodes.
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Ear pain is a hallmark of childhood; almost all children have experienced earaches at one time in their short lives. Some ear pain is the sign of a bacterial infection, while other discomfort may be simply a result of congestion or a change in air pressure.
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Although honey is often used as natural treatment for a variety of ailments, some individuals can develop an allergic reaction to it.
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Erectile dysfunction, or impotence, is a common disorder in men that has several causes. Vascular disease, which is dysfunction of the blood vessels as in atherosclerosis, is one common cause. Another potential cause is the side effects of particular medications.
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