Alzheimer disease is a chronic, incurable brain disorder characterized by progressive loss of brain tissue and function. The early stages of Alzheimer disease primarily affect intellectual functions. Late-stage Alzheimer disease directly or indirectly affects other body systems. The condition is ultimately fatal.
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An ecosystem is a living system that includes the sun as an energy source, soil, rocks, water, air, plant life and living beings. We humans are only one part of any ecosystem, but many people believe that we have a disproportionate effect. Our actions tend to affect not just our surroundings, but the world at large.
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Oregano oil comes from the leaves of oregano plants, Origanum vulgare, which belong to the mint family. Oregano grows wild in Mediterranean regions, where it has long been valued for its healing properties. The word oregano means "joy of the mountains,"
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White blood cells (WBCs) serve as the principal actors of the immune system. The 5 classes of WBCs, or leukocytes, differ in appearance and function. These classes include neutrophils, monocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils and basophils.
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Shallow breathing can be an alarming and potentially life-threatening symptom if left untreated. People who develop shallow breathing can generally develop wheezing and blue skin (cyanosis). Sometimes, shallow breathing can be due to fluid accumulation within the lungs.
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Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of harmful bacteria known as candidas. This bacteria thrives in dark moist environments and causes irritation of the affected skin along with itching and burning. Home treatment can be very helpful in the early stages of a yeast infection.
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A hiatal hernia can make mealtimes miserable. Hiatal hernia occurs when a small part of your stomach slides up into your chest through a weak spot, or hiatus, in your diaphragm.
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Known primarily as an aid to digestion and a treatment for inflammation, ginger is a beneficial addition to a weight-loss program aimed at reducing belly fat and obtaining a flat tummy. Belly fat accumulates for various reasons, including overeating, age-related hormone reduction, lack of exercise and stress.
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Beef allergies affect an estimated 3 percent to 6.5 percent of children, including one of every five children allergic to cow milk, according to a 2001 report from the Internet Symposium on Food Allergen's Matthew Belser and colleagues. Most children outgrow their allergies within three years.
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The results of cholesterol tests reveal the amount of low-density lipoprotein, also called LDL or “bad” cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein, also known as HDL or “good” cholesterol, in your bloodstream.
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Yogurt contains live beneficial bacteria called probiotics that help digestion and boost the immune system. In addition, calcium strengthens the muscle in your lower esophagus, helping to prevent acid reflux. Dannon Activia yogurt contains probiotics and is a good source of calcium.
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Dialysis is the treatment used to replace kidney function after kidney failure. There are two types of dialysis: hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis. Both types cleanse the blood of waste products, help manage electrolyte balance and remove excess fluid from the body.
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Erosive esophagitis results from reflux of stomach acid up into the esophagus. The lining of the esophagus becomes inflamed and irritated. You may feel abdominal pain and burning that extends up into the mid-chest area. Following a bland diet can help minimize symptoms.
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Having diabetes means watching what you eat and drink in order to keep your blood sugar levels in check. In addition, part of managing diabetes involves maintaining a healthy weight.
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Niacin is an essential vitamin, also called vitamin B-3 or nicotinic acid. Your body uses it for turning food into energy, as well as for DNA, cell signaling and cell differentiation. Niacin is also prescribed by doctors to help lower LDL cholesterol, increase HDL cholesterol and lower triglycerides.
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Epididymitis is inflammation of your epididymis -- a tube that links your testicle with your vas deferens. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that this condition is caused by the spread of bacteria from the urethra to the bladder and that it usually occurs in men between the ages of 19 and 35.
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When you refer to the muscles of your thigh, you are not simply referring to one muscle. Your thigh is actually made up of three muscles: hamstrings in the back, adductor muscles along the insides and quadriceps (the large muscle in the front).
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Diabetics can eat all kinds of food, including many commercial cold cereals. According to the American Diabetes Association, or ADA, diabetics should eat cereals with 3g or more of dietary fiber and 5g or less of total sugar.
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As a child or teenager, the mere though of vegetables probably made your stomach churn with discomfort. This mental aversion typically subsides with age as you begin to understand the importance of a healthy diet. However, some people actually experience physical discomfort after eating vegetables.
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A number of alternative medicine sources tout aloe vera juice for acne. All 4 Natural Health.com recommends aloe vera for acne because of its ability to treat injured skin.
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