A seizure is an abnormal burst of electrical activity in the brain. While some seizures cause no symptoms, others produce movements or changes in behavior, sensation or level of consciousness. When seizures occur repeatedly, this usually indicates a seizure disorder, or epilepsy.
Read more →
The bones of the human body allow us to move from place to place and provide protection to other organs. Some bones also produce blood cells. Our bones produce over two million red blood cells every second. Scientists consider the skeleton to be composed of two parts: axial and appendicular.
Read more →
Laryngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membranes that line the larynx. The larynx houses the vocal cords and they are often involved, leaving the sufferer with a hoarseness or a temporary loss of voice. The condition may or may not be painful.
Read more →
The definition for impotence varies slightly among professionals, but it is generally considered to be the inability to achieve and maintain an erection sufficient for intercourse. A woman or man considering whether her or his boyfriend is impotent may be reluctant to initiate discussion about the issue.
Read more →
A normal temperature for a toddler is 98.6 degrees or slightly higher. A fever of 104 degrees indicates a medical problem that should be evaluated by a physician. Rarely, a child with a fever of 104 degrees will have a seizure due to the increased temperature.
Read more →
Ativan is a prescription medication available by oral tablet, oral solution and injection. It is a controlled substance that must be taken only as prescribed. The drug is available by brand name or as the generic drug lorazepam.
Read more →
Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant medication sold over the counter (such as in Sudafed). It is also found as a component in some prescription medications. Pseudoephedrine is available as a tablet, chewable tablet, controlled-release tablet, capsule, syrup, suspension and liquid and as drops.
Read more →
Occasional tiredness is normal, but if you are frequently or constantly tired, you are likely suffering from fatigue. It may be brought on by a minor condition or it may signal a life-threatening illness. Weakness is uncommon in young, healthy adults and therefore warrants an evaluation.
Read more →
The elderly are susceptible to problems maintaining a stable blood pressure. While high blood pressure is more common, some elderly adults suffer from chronic or intermittent low blood pressure.
Read more →
You just finished dinner and you have a sudden, sharp pain in your upper side that spreads to your right shoulder. It hurts when you inhale and you feel nauseous.
Read more →
Tonsillectomy is the surgical removal of the tonsils, two lymphatic tissues found in the throat. Tonsils protect the body from infection but often become problematic, especially for children. A recurrent sore throat, ear infection or difficulty breathing leads many Americans to have their tonsils removed.
Read more →
Sudden short-term memory loss is often as frightening for loved ones as it is for the sufferer. The fact that it comes on suddenly yields clues to its possible causes. New cases of confusion or sudden memory loss for no apparent reason should be evaluated by a medical professional immediately.
Read more →
According to the American Heart Association, a blood cholesterol level of less than 160 milligrams per deciliter is considered low. Taking cholesterol-lowering medications occasionally leads to low cholesterol, also called hypocholesterolemia. Several disorders and conditions also cause hypocholesterolemia.
Read more →
Communication is the sharing of messages between individuals. It may be transmitted orally, by the written word or by the use of body language. Therapeutic communication is a tool employed by health professionals to facilitate discussion with the patient.
Read more →
Fever is often a sign of infection somewhere in the body. It is an important immune system function that sometimes serves to kill the invading organism. People with diabetes are prone to several types of infection.
Read more →
Flatulence, the medical term for passing gas from the intestines, is a normal, healthy occurrence. Occasionally, flatulence becomes excessive, and interferes with daily activities.
Read more →
Black, tarry stools are the result of bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Specifically, they may originate from the stomach, the esophagus or the upper portion of the small intestine.
Read more →
A rectal temperature is often considered more accurate than an oral or axillary temperature, due to potential alterations in the mouth temperature from beverage intake and alterations in skin temperature due to ambient conditions. There are many types of thermometers available on the market today.
Read more →
Just as adults, children can suffer from psychological problems. These may be considered to be behavioral, mental, emotional or learning disorders. Treatments exist for each type of disorder and a mental health professional can determine if a child indeed has a particular problem.
Read more →
Tonsils are two small, almond-shaped masses of lymphoid tissue found in the back of the throat. They often become a source of infection, pain and inflammation. A physician may recommend removal if the tonsils cause numerous infections, sore throats or difficulty swallowing.
Read more →