Uric acid is the byproduct of protein digestion, and in healthy individuals, it is removed from the blood stream and excreted by the kidneys. Excess uric acid is deposited in the joints in crystal form and creates a painful arthritic condition known as gout.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 652,000 Americans died of heart disease in 2005. In fact, heart disease remains the leading cause of death in both men and women in the United states.

Antibiotics are prescribed for some types of bacterial ear infections in adults. Since different types of ear infections require different treatment, your doctor will do a careful examination and obtain your health history before deciding how best to treat your ear infection.

Herpes is an incurable viral infection that can be managed with over-the-counter and prescription medications. MayoClinic.com suggests that some medications can significantly reduce the frequency and duration of outbreaks. Medications available without a prescription should only be used as directed.

Mental abuse is a type of domestic violence. Being involved in a mentally abusive and controlling relationship can wreak havoc on many different parts of your life, including your self-esteem, relationships, career and overall psychological well-being. Give yourself credit for getting out of the relationship.

Numerous diseases can cause lightheadedness and stomach sickness. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health, dizziness is lightheadedness, or the feeling of imminent fainting. Lightheadedness occurs when there is inadequate blood flow to the brain.

Chlamydia pneumoniae is a common species of bacteria of the Chlamydia genus. Approximately 50 percent of Americans aged 20 and older have experienced a Chlamydia pneumoniae infection, and reinfection later in life seems common, notes the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The neurotransmitter serotonin, also known by its chemical name 5-hydoxytryptamine, is released by neurons in the pineal gland of the brain but can affect structures all over the body. Some of the effects of serotonin seem unrelated, making this compound one of the most diverse in the body.

The adrenal glands produce the hormone norepinephrine, a potent form of the “fight or flight” hormone epinephrine. Tumors of the adrenal glands called pheochromocytomas produce abnormally high levels of norepinephrine. The majority of pheochromocytomas are noncancerous.

A rash is an area of irritated, swollen and often red skin. Rashes may be itchy, bumpy, scaly, crusted or blistered, as described by the National Institutes of Health. Rashes may appear quickly, or develop over time. Some rashes will resolve on their own while others may require treatment.

If you suffer from chronic acid reflux and are concerned about side effects from long-term use of acid-blocking drugs, you may be seeking natural remedies. DGL licorice is one herbal solution recommended by many practitioners of alternative medicine.

Many conditions cause light flashes in the eye, known medically as photopsia. Seeing phantom light flashes is sometimes harmless, but this symptom might signal a serious disorder requiring urgent medical treatment.