For patients and caregivers, understanding clinical progression, diagnostic imaging results, and pharmacological treatment options is vital for managing acute and chronic health conditions.
Kidneys are complex organs that perform many functions. In addition to filtering blood, they secrete hormones that regulate blood pressure and maturation of red blood cells. Many of the filtration functions also have secondary effects, such as maintaining bone health and controlling the acid-base balance in the body.
Read more →
Skin that has been burned becomes red, and blisters may form in the case of a second- or third-degree burn, says the Mayo Clinic. Third-degree burns are the most severe burns and may be accompanied by black or white, charred areas of the skin. If you are suffering from third-degree burns, see a doctor immediately.
Read more →
Shingles is a viral illness that affects a variety of locations throughout the body. It most often causes a painful skin rash on the trunk, abdomen or torso. Less commonly, the rash can be found on the arms or legs. Shingles may also affect the head, face, eyes, mouth or ear.
Read more →
The primary reason for a doctor to prescribe a cough medicine with hydrocodone is to alleviate the chronic coughing that can accompany lung cancer. Athough hydrocodone is a narcotic with significant adverse effects—and even potential for abuse—it is a valuable tool for improving quality of life.
Read more →
Onion tea has been used as a folk remedy for the common cold, flu and cough. Onion contains nutrients to help fight a cold, and herbal teas provide you with a relaxing effect during recovery.
Read more →
The parathyroid consists of are four small glands in the neck located on the thyroid gland. Although these two glands are close in location, their functions are unrelated.
Read more →
Almonds have been part of the human diet for thousands of years, but until recently, were not available in the large quantities they are today. If you enjoy almonds, it can be difficult to stop after only a small handful, and you can end up eating too many.
Read more →
The pH of a liquid determines its acidity. By measuring how many protons, or hydrogen atoms, a chemical releases into a solution, you can determine how acidic the solution is. Acidity is measured on a pH scale, ranging from 0—highly acidic—to 14—highly alkaline or basic. Pure water is neutral, with a pH of 7.
Read more →
Acid reflux occurs when acidic digestive juices leak from the stomach into the esophagus. Its symptoms include heartburn, a sour taste in the mouth and a sore throat. Acid reflux can be treated in a variety of ways, but for people whose reflux is related to cow's milk, soy milk can be a good alternative.
Read more →
Metamucil is a dietary supplement that is sold over-the-counter. It is commonly used to treat constipation and diarrhea and can also help lower cholesterol. Metamucil is 100 percent psyllium husk fiber, a soluble fiber that provides regularity.
Read more →
The next time you drink diet soda or eat low-fat yogurt, look closely at the labels; the sweetness you taste may be due to the artificial sweetener aspartame. This commonly used sweetener is touted as "diet" because it does not contain any calories.
Read more →
Saw palmetto is the most popular herbal hair loss treatment, although it does not have the approval of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or large-scale scientific studies to back its use for hair loss.
Read more →
Excess cholesterol, fat and calcium can collect along the walls of your arteries, forming plaque and restricting blood flow. Called atherosclerosis, this narrowing and hardening of your arteries can lead to cardiovascular disease.
Read more →
Iron is an important mineral that is necessary for a healthy body. Iron helps produce the oxygen-carrying proteins hemoglobin and myoglobin. Persistent low iron levels are more pronounced in menstruating, pregnant or lactating women, vegetarians, long-distance runners, and people with bleeding ulcers.
Read more →
Vitamin B-12 is a water-soluble vitamin belonging to the B-complex family of vitamins. Many important biological processes in your body, including red blood cell formation and nervous system function, require vitamin B-12.
Read more →
In many cases, feeling thigh pain while cycling is not related to major medical problems. Chafing, cramps and general tiredness in the muscles can all trigger thigh pain. However, you may be able to both prevent future symptoms and find out if your pain is cause for concern.
Read more →
The shoulder is made up of the collarbone, shoulder blade and the upper arm bone. Upper body workouts or sports that require the use of your arms put your shoulders at risk for injuries. If you get shoulder pain after a workout, immediately stop the exercise and consult a physician.
Read more →
The knee has more structures than any other joint, making it very vulnerable to injury and pain. It doesn’t help matters that it’s also a weight-bearing joint. Factors that contribute to knee pain include overuse, an unusual motion, abnormal joint structure or a degenerative condition such as arthritis.
Read more →
A common bagel topping, smoked salmon is made by cutting the fish into strips, curing it in a brine and smoking it for flavor. Although it has nutritional benefits and drawbacks, smoked salmon can be part of a healthy meal if you consume it in moderation.
Read more →
Dehydration is the term used to describe an imbalance between fluid needs and fluid loss: when more fluid is lost than is required for normal body processes, dehydration may occur. Symptoms indicating dehydration include feeling thirsty, dizzy or weak. Some people may notice that their eyes or mouth feel unusually dry.
Read more →