For patients and caregivers, understanding clinical progression, diagnostic imaging results, and pharmacological treatment options is vital for managing acute and chronic health conditions.
Catching a bed bug infestation while it is localized to a small area is imperative -- these pests will spread throughout an entire building and wreak havoc on your house, health and wallet. Bed bugs will feed on birds and mammals but appear to prefer human blood when presented with the choice. [start previewing here].
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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).
Read more →
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.
Read more →
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.
Read more →
Prednisone, or Deltasone, is a corticosteroid utilized as a headache preventative. HeadacheMigraineRelease.com suggests that Prednisone is ideal to relieve the acute pain associated with status migraines, which are migraines with an extended headache phase lasting more than 5 hours.
Read more →
It is not unusual for babies to experience occasional bouts of constipation. An infant's digestive system is still maturing and is therefore very sensitive to any change in diet. It can be difficult for parents to see their child straining and appearing uncomfortable.
Read more →
Fatigue is a common complaint today. Many people are tired occasionally, after a busy, over-scheduled day, but when fatigue becomes chronic and interferes with daily activities, there may be an underlying reason. A recent survey by Sydney's Woolcock Institute of Medical Research in Australia found that 11.
Read more →
A dopamine antagonist is a chemical, medication or drug that prevents the actions stimulated by dopamine. Dopamine is a naturally produced chemical in the body that binds to regions in the brain to help regulate emotions and movement.
Read more →
People with an addictive personality are emotionally insecure, says Craig Nakken, a certified drug counselor and the author of "The Addictive Personality." They don't trust themselves or other people as a source of security, support and positive feedback.
Read more →