Like the nervous system, the endocrine system is involved in communication and control between the body’s various organ systems. Hormones are produced in the body by organs called glands which release hormones in order to send messages to other organs.
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Abnormally high thyroid hormone levels, or hyperthyroidism, can cause increased heart rate, anxiety and weight loss. When thyroid hormone levels drop too low the result is fatigue, weight gain and slowed heart rate, a condition known as hypothyroidism.
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Purines are part of the structure of nucleic acids, molecules that make up DNA. They're present in every cell in the human body. When purines break down, they form uric acid, a waste product normally excreted by the kidneys. Gout is a condition that results from a buildup of uric acid in the body.
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When exposed to infection or injury, your body responds defensively, by unleashing an immune response that results in the release of fluids, antibodies and white blood cells to the affected area.
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It’s impossible to monitor every single item an inquisitive child chooses to touch. Unfortunately concerns regarding safety may arise when a child suddenly exhibits a rash on her hands. There are many different factors that contribute to a hand rash, but some causes of hand rash in children are more common than others.
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The nervous system serves as a network of connections through which the brain sends instructions to the body and the body responds with information. When the nervous system is malfunctioning, a number of negative symptoms occur, from muscle weakness to organ dysfunction.
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The vagus nerve is one of 12 cranial nerves, exiting the skull rather than through the vertebral column. The vagus nerve is the tenth cranial nerve.
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It’s hard to prevent the spread of infection when a large number of ill people are housed in close proximity to each other, as occurs in any hospital setting. A bacterium called Clostridium difficile causes more hospital-acquired infections than any other pathogen, according to Dr.
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An enzyme is a protein that speeds up the rate at which a chemical reaction occurs. Enzymes are substrate specific, meaning that each type of enzyme has a specific type of molecule that it affects. The human body needs enzymes to influence the rates at which biological processes occur.
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Ligaments are strong bands of connective tissue that connect bone to bone. These structures keep your joints stable as you move. Finger ligament injuries can cause long-term complications if they are not promptly diagnosed. Even with proper treatment, permanent finger deformities may develop.
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Bone spurs, or osteophytes, can protrude from the bones of the vertebral column and cause unpleasant symptoms. Others are less problematic.
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The area at the back of the knee is referred to by the anatomical term “popliteal fossa,” due to the presence of the flat triangular muscle at the back of the knee called the popliteus. "Fossa" is an anatomical term used to describe a concave depression, such as at the back of the knee, or the inside of the elbow.
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It may seem counterintuitive, but the fiery spices found in Indian cuisine may help douse the flames of heartburn and indigestion.
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Many different factors can cause leg pain. Muscle fatigue, shin splints, atherosclerosis, blood clots, nerve damage, arthritis, gout, osteomyelitis and varicose veins are some of the causes. But perhaps the most common causes of leg pain are related to diet or dehydration.
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Ulcers, lactose intolerance and ulcerative colitis are just a few examples of conditions that can upset your stomach. If you’ve run the gauntlet of medical treatments for your stomach disorder without success, you may be skeptical of the effectiveness of something as innocuous as yogurt in easing your symptoms.
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Learn about the potential long-term effects of a spinal fusion, including complications, deformity treatment, and scoliosis surgery outcomes. Understand why spinal fusion is necessary and how it can impact your body.
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The cervical spine is the region of the spinal column that supports the neck. Eight nerves emerge from between the cervical spinal bones, or vertebrae. These cervical nerves are referred to as C1 through C8. Each cervical nerve leads to different parts of the body and supports sensory, motor or organ function.
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They’re red, they’re round and they’re really irritating. Annular skin rashes are those that manifest in a circular pattern. Skin rashes can be relatively benign, or they can be a symptom of a major systemic illness.
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The body produces two main categories of white blood cells, granulocytes, cells containing granules suspended within their plasma and agranulocytes which have no granules. Neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils are types of granulocytes. Lymphocytes and monocytes are agranulocytes.
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The vestibulocochlear nerve, also known as cranial nerve XIII, is a special sensory nerve with two nerve branches. The vestibular branch of the nerve aids in balance control, allowing the individual to ascertain their spatial positioning and maintain upright posture.
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