For patients and caregivers, understanding clinical progression, diagnostic imaging results, and pharmacological treatment options is vital for managing acute and chronic health conditions.
Melanoma is a form of skin cancer. It arises from specialized skin cells called melanocytes, which produce the color (pigment) in our skin. Melanomas are pigmented lesions that resemble normal skin moles. However, melanomas usually have characteristics that distinguish them from moles.
Read more →
The 3 classic symptoms of diabetes mellitus are polyuria, polydipsia and polyphagia -- also known as the 3 P's. Polyuria, polydipsia and polyphagia are defined as an increase in urination, thirst and hunger, respectively. The presence of the 3 P’s is a good indication that your blood sugar may be too high.
Read more →
Parasitic nematodes (worms) in humans can be found in the intestines, muscles and other tissues. More people around the world have a nematode infection than any other parasitic infection.
Read more →
Experiencing pain behind your knee while running can be a symptom of a more serious problem, such as tendinitis or a Baker’s cyst. If you feel such pain, immediately stop running to prevent further injury. Treatment includes ice, compression and elevation of your knee. Contact your doctor if pain persists.
Read more →
Urinary tract infections -- also referred to as UTIs -- are common bacterial infections of the bladder. These infections can affect anyone, but are most common in females. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, females are twice as likely as males to develop UTIs.
Read more →
If you take supplements that contain mega amounts of vitamins, you may experience symptoms of toxicity. However, not all vitamins produce this reaction.
Read more →
Plantar fasciitis is a relatively common condition that can cause foot and heel pain. If not treated properly, it can become chronic. After being diagnosed, it is important to take care of your body to prevent future flare-ups.
Read more →
A roasted lamb shank bone, known as the zeroa (also spelled zeroah or z'roah), is placed on the seder plate at Passover. It symbolizes the two lambs that were sacrificed on the eve of the ancient Jews' exodus from Egypt. A lamb was sacrificed on the afternoon before Passover in subsequent years.
Read more →
B complex is a supplement that contains all eight B vitamins. These vitamins are essential for numerous physiologic functions, including growth and development. Your diet often supplies the B vitamins you need, but in some cases, you may need a supplement to get sufficient amounts of the vitamins.
Read more →
Exercise provides many health benefits. It boosts your cardiovascular and respiratory health, strengthens muscles, improves immunity and burns calories. Regular physical activity is also known to promote regular bowel movements, which can prevent hemorrhoids and even help them heal.
Read more →
The spinal cord is made up of nerves that relay messages back and forth between your brain and muscles and other tissues. It is protected by the backbone which is made up of stacked bones known as vertebrae. Spinal cord compression occurs anywhere from the neck to the lower end of the spine.
Read more →
Weight loss, according to the American Council on Exercise, can significantly improve your health by lowering your risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke. Additionally, the loss of a few pounds can improve your appearance, boosting your self esteem.
Read more →
Whether it's "runner's knee", arthritis or iliotibial band syndrome, pain in and around your knee cap can slow you down. The patella, or knee cap, sits over the femur and tibia and all three bones are connected by cartilage, ligaments and tendons, any one of which can be compromised by natural causes or overuse.
Read more →
Wrist sprains, which cause damage to the ligaments in your wrist, often are the result of a fall onto an outstretched hand. Wrist sprains can occur during sports, recreation or daily activities. If you have sprained your wrist, you may experience swelling, pain, tenderness and bruising.
Read more →
Phosphatidylcholine is a ubiquitous, naturally occurring phospholipid molecule. It is the major lipid, or fat, of cell membranes and blood proteins. Also known as PC, phosphatidylcholine serves as the body’s main source of choline, an essential nutrient and precursor to the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine.
Read more →
Metamucil is an over-the-counter laxative with the active ingredient of psyllium, a soluble fiber derived from a plant called Plantago ovata. Psyllium can help relieve constipation, diarrhea and a variety of other disorders and may also help lower cholesterol, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Read more →
A bunion, a growth of bone and soft tissue on the joint of your big toe, develops from a condition called hallux valgus, in which the bone turns outwards, forcing the big toe into the second toe.
Read more →
Everyone sweats under certain conditions such as when exercising, spending long periods in the sun and dealing with high amounts of stress or anxiety. But some sweat beyond what is considered normal, and face embarrassment about the condition.
Read more →
Ear wax protects your inner ear from dirt and other foreign matter. However, too much ear wax can affect your hearing and cause dizziness, pain or itching. For mild to moderate amounts of ear wax buildup, you can clean your ears with a hydrogen peroxide solution at home.
Read more →
With the passage of so many new smoking bans and other smoking ordinances, there has been a new wave of publicity about the dangers of smoking. You may be aware that smoking is the second leading cause of death in the United States.
Read more →