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Articles by Lauren Hellicar
Lewy body dementia stages
Lewy body dementia stages include the first stage, middle stage, and end stage. The disease progresses as protein clumps called Lewy bodies build up in the brain and cause cognitive impairment. The buildup of Lewy bodies causes some people to have hallucinations in the early stages of the condition. As the condition progresses to the middle and later stages, a person may become confused and develop difficulties with movement.
Recovery and possible complications
Life after tongue cancer surgery can be challenging at first. People may experience changes in their ability to speak, eat, and drink. Tiredness is also common after surgery, and a person must gradually return to their previous activity level over time. After the surgery, a person may require support from loved ones for daily activities, such as eating and drinking. Additionally, doctors, nurses, dietitians, and physiotherapists may all play a role in a person’s recovery.
Definition, causes, and lifestyle modifications
Skinny fat means being a moderate weight or underweight but having a higher proportion of body fat than is healthy. Skinny fat also means having lower than ideal lean body mass, which includes everything in the body except the fat, such as the organs, bones, muscles, blood, and skin. A person’s lifestyle and genetics can affect their risk of developing skinny fat. Making dietary and lifestyle modifications can help to counteract the condition.
Bipolar disorder hallucinations
Bipolar disorder, which some people may refer to as manic depression, is a mental health condition causing disordered mood, energy, activity levels, and concentration. Some people with this condition may experience bipolar hallucinations. People with bipolar disorder experience shifts in mood. These can range from feeling elated, irritable, or energized, which doctors refer to as manic episodes, to feeling very sad, indifferent, or hopeless, which doctors refer to as depressive episodes.
Can constipation cause a fever in adults or children?
Constipation cannot cause a fever, but some conditions that can lead to constipation might. For example, some infections might cause fever and digestive symptoms. It is also possible that constipation and fever could occur at the same time without being related. Alternatively, having a fever could cause behavior changes that lead to constipation, such as eating differently. In this article, we will explain whether constipation can cause a fever and what conditions could link the two.
Health benefits of sauerkraut explained
Sauerkraut is a type of fermented cabbage. Evidence suggests this tangy, nutritious food may help support gut health and have other health benefits. Sauerkraut has long been part of the human diet. Its name means “sour cabbage” or “sour vegetable” in German. Eating fermented foods such as sauerkraut may be good for digestive health, and sauerkraut may also have additional positive effects on health. This article outlines the potential health benefits of eating sauerkraut.
Guarana vs. caffeine from coffee: Is there a difference?
Guarana contains more caffeine than coffee, but both substances have health benefits. Consuming too much caffeine from any source can cause unwanted side effects. Guarana and coffee contain different plant chemicals but share caffeine in common. Caffeine is a stimulant, and having too much of it can cause side effects such as anxiety and palpitations. This article discusses whether the effects of consuming caffeine are different depending on whether it comes from guarana or coffee.
Knowing the signs of a heroin addiction
Heroin addiction can severely impact a person’s life and the lives of their friends and family. A person experiencing heroin addiction may not wish to discuss the fact that they take heroin with others due to fear of stigma or judgment. However, talking with a person in this situation and supporting them in getting treatment could help save their life. Getting treatment can help a person develop a plan for a healthier relationship with heroin, whether that is abstinence or reducing their use.
Causes, risks, and how to manage cravings
Geophagia is the official term for craving and eating dirt, including earth, soil, or clay. Eating dirt may relieve gastrointestinal pain for some people, but it can also cause health problems such as anemia and lead poisoning. Geophagia is a type of pica, a condition in which people regularly and deliberately eat nonfood items. People may crave dirt due to nutritional deficiencies, pregnancy, cultural customs, or other reasons.
Benefits and risks
Although curcumin may be a useful supplement alongside traditional cancer treatments, more research is necessary to understand exactly how it may benefit people with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that develops in lymphocytes, which are white blood cells forming part of the immune system. Curcumin is a naturally occurring compound called a polyphenol. It comes from turmeric root.
The link and how to improve sleep quality
Psoriasis symptoms can cause sleep disturbances and difficulty getting to sleep. People with psoriasis may also experience sleep-related comorbidities, such as insomnia. Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition which affects the multiplication of skin cells. This results in thick, scaly plaques of skin. The itching and pain associated with this skin inflammation can make it difficult for people to get to sleep and stay asleep. Sleep disturbance is, therefore, a common problem for people with psoriasis.
The potential benefits
Baking soda is not a first-line treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). More research is necessary to determine whether it can benefit RA symptoms. RA is a chronic condition that occurs when a person’s immune system causes inflammation and damage to the joints. Treatment typically aims to reduce or stop inflammation to relieve symptoms and prevent further joint damage. Dietary changes may be one way people can fight inflammation due to arthritis.
Is HER2-positive breast cancer hereditary? Cause and diagnosis
Although HER2-positive breast cancer has a genetic element, it is not hereditary. Inheritable gene mutations that may increase the risk of breast cancer include mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. HER2 stands for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2. The HER2 gene contains instructions for making proteins that healthy breast cells need to function normally. HER2 receptors influence the growth, division, and repair of breast cells.
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and anemia: What to know
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of blood cancers that affect the bone marrow and can result in a low levels of blood cells. When MDS affects red blood cells, it can lead to anemia in some people. A low red blood cell count (hemoglobin) is a key feature of anemia. With MDS, anemia occurs because the bone marrow does not work correctly.
An overview of the treatment options
Doctors may recommend eye drops, oral medications, laser treatment, or surgery for glaucoma. These interventions can help reduce eye pressure and protect the optic nerve from further damage. However, they cannot restore lost vision. Doctors cannot repair optic nerve damage, meaning that if someone loses their vision due to glaucoma, they cannot regain it.
Yoga for multiple sclerosis
Yoga supports the joints, muscles, structure, and function of the body and provides mental health benefits through relaxation and mindfulness. It may be beneficial for people with MS. Some people describe yoga as “moving meditation.” Yoga is popular among people with multiple sclerosis (MS), and doctors generally consider it a safe activity for people with MS. People can modify yoga poses to suit their ability level and ensure they practice safely, allowing them to get the maximum benefits.
What restrictions are there?
A driver rehabilitation specialist can help determine whether it is safe for a person with multiple sclerosis (MS) to drive. Some restrictions may apply, such as only being able to drive vehicles with adaptive equipment. MS can affect a range of skills and abilities required for driving, such as moving between the brake and gas pedals and being able to spot hazards quickly and clearly. These difficulties can lead to an increased risk of having an accident.
Is there a link between the carnivore diet and constipation? Original
The carnivore diet involves eating only animal-based foods, excluding other food groups, such as fiber-rich vegetables and fruits. This means it is typically high in fat and protein and low in carbohydrates. It may sometimes cause constipation. The diet is contrary to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which emphasize the importance of fiber for good health. Some may worry about becoming constipated due to this diet’s lack of fiber.
Is there a connection?
During an asthma episode, a person may experience abdominal distress. Some people may experience symptoms of abdominal pain or distress at the same time as an asthma episode. For instance, it might be apparent when a child complains of having a tummy ache, or if they strain their stomach muscles from having to expend more energy to get enough oxygen. Abdominal distress may be due to the dysregulation of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems.
Weight bearing exercises for osteoporosis to do at home
Weight bearing exercise may benefit people with osteoporosis by helping to limit bone density loss. Depending on the severity of their condition, some people may need to avoid high impact types of weight bearing exercise such as basketball and running. Instead, they can opt for moderate or low intensity options such as skipping, hopping, marching, or gentle heel drops. Read on to find out how much and how intensely a person with osteoporosis should exercise.
Benefits and more
A fiber-rich diet can help lower a person’s risk of colorectal cancer. Experts recommend that people eat at least 30 grams (g) of fiber daily. Colorectal cancer refers to cancers of the colon and the rectum. Colon cancer starts in the colon, and rectal cancer starts in the rectum. Eating a fiber-rich diet may help prevent colorectal cancer from developing. It may also help prevent a person from dying from the disease.
Choosing between inpatient and outpatient alcohol rehabilitation
Inpatient and outpatient treatment options are available for alcohol use disorder (AUD). The right treatment for each person will depend on their unique circumstances, including their medical and social needs. “Alcohol rehab” is not a medically accurate term. However, people sometimes use it to describe treatment for AUD. This medical condition impairs the ability to stop or manage alcohol use despite negative impacts on health, social life, or work.
Benefits, risks, and more
Massage may help alleviate some symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, it can pose a risk for some individuals. It is a good idea to consult a doctor before beginning massage therapy. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory auto-immune disease that causes the destruction of the protective myelin sheath surrounding the nerves. This can lead to a range of symptoms, including pain, muscle spasms, mobility problems, and fatigue. Massage may help to alleviate some of these symptoms.
Types, symptoms, and more
There are many plant and weed species common to North America that can cause hives in those with allergies. Antihistamine pills, topical creams, and lukewarm washes can help relieve hives symptoms. A person can develop hives — an itchy raised rash — when they come into contact with a trigger, which can be synthetic or natural. This then induces a histamine reaction in the skin, leading to an itchy rash.
Benefits, examples, and how to
Eccentric exercise focuses on movements, or phases of a movement, that lengthen the muscles. Some examples of eccentric exercise include lowering into a squat or lowering into a press-up. In contrast, when a person pushes out of a squat or press-up, this shortens the muscles. This is known as concentric movement. Exercises that keep the muscles the same length, such as planking, are isometric movements. Eccentric movements require less oxygen and energy than other types of movement.
Awareness month and more
Esophageal Cancer Awareness Month takes place in April. Its purpose is to raise awareness about esophageal cancer and campaign for research funding. People who develop esophageal cancer often do not know they have it until the cancer has progressed to an advanced stage. As a result, esophageal cancer has one of the least favorable outlooks of all cancer types.
The link between roller coasters and headaches
Some roller coasters may put the body under a certain amount of stress and strain. With the movement and impact on the head and brain, riding them may result in headaches and migraine. For some people, the headache might go away after taking some painkillers and getting some rest, but for others, it could be a sign of a concussion or head trauma.
How does resistance training prevent osteoporosis?
Resistance training may help prevent osteoporosis by increasing bone density. This type of exercise puts stress on the bones, and in response, the body creates denser bone tissue. However, research has not conclusively proven that resistance training increases bone density substantially. A 2020 review states that it probably helps with osteoporosis prevention but that there is more evidence for this in some parts of the body than others.
6 exercises for osteoporosis of the spine
Exercise can help reduce or slow bone loss in people with osteoporosis of the spine. It can also strengthen muscles and improve balance, reducing the risk of falls and injuries. Strengthening the muscles that support the spine is particularly important for people with osteoporosis in this region of the body. That said, people with spine osteoporosis need to avoid certain motions and activities when exercising.
Going flat after a mastectomy
Going flat after mastectomy means choosing not to have breast reconstruction after having one or both breasts removed. Many people decide to have new breasts created after undergoing breast removal surgery. Surgeons can do this by transplanting tissue from elsewhere on the person’s body, known as tissue flaps, or by implanting synthetic material, known as implants. Other people decide to “go flat” and undergo a procedure called aesthetic flat closure.
Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion: An overview
People who have syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) produce excessive amounts of antidiuretic hormones. It leads to the body developing an imbalance of sodium and water. The kidneys need this hormone in the correct amount to properly control the volume of water the body loses in urine. Someone who does not eliminate the appropriate amount of fluid is at risk of developing abnormally low levels of sodium or other electrolytes in the blood (known as hyponatremia).
How fast do adrenal tumors grow?
Adrenal tumors can grow slowly or quickly depending on whether they are cancerous or noncancerous. Cancerous types tend to grow faster than noncancerous types. Approximately 75% of all adrenal tumors are adenomas, which are usually slow growing and noncancerous. Tumors can form in any part of the body where the cells start growing uncontrollably and abnormally, crowding out the regular healthy cells. The adrenal glands are no exception.
Symptoms and treatment
Glaucoma refers to damage to the optic nerve in the eye. Usually, this occurs along with raised pressure inside the eye, but in normal tension glaucoma, pressure in the eye is within the typical range. Scientists do not fully understand the cause of normal tension glaucoma. Often, it does not cause symptoms to begin with, but it can lead to eye damage and vision loss. In this article, we will explain what normal tension glaucoma is, the symptoms, risk factors, and treatments.
Symptoms, cause, and treatment
Pigmentary glaucoma is an eye condition in which color from the iris spreads to other parts of the eye. This color, or pigment, builds up in the eye’s tissues, preventing fluid from draining. In some people, this results in damage to the optic nerve. Not everyone who has this extra pigment will develop glaucoma. For some, the pigment buildup does not cause symptoms. When it does, the condition can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
Red light therapy and weight loss: Does it work?
Red light therapy for weight loss has been increasing in popularity. However, there is currently no expert consensus on whether it actually works. Red light therapy, which people also call low-level laser therapy (LLLT), has been the subject of a number of scientific studies. While the available research generally shows that LLLT provides some fat loss benefits, the study designs are inconsistent.
Benefits and when to take them
Some people use raisins as a remedy for constipation. However, research has not conclusively proven that they are an effective constipation remedy. Some studies have found supportive results, while others have found that raisins made no difference. Raisins are high in fiber and sorbitol, which could explain why some people find them helpful for constipation. Fiber adds bulk to stools, which can make them easier to pass, and sorbitol can help soften stool.
What symptoms of thyroid cancer occur in females?
Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer arising in the thyroid gland at the base of the neck. Thyroid cancer symptoms in females may include swelling, painless lumps, and difficulty swallowing. However, thyroid cancer is often asymptomatic. Many people develop benign (noncancerous) growths of thyroid cells that cause a painless lump. However, in rare cases, these cells can grow and divide uncontrollably, leading to thyroid cancer. Thyroid cancer is more in females than males.
Gestational hypertension vs. preeclampsia: A comparison
Gestational hypertension means high blood pressure during pregnancy. In some people, gestational hypertension can lead to preeclampsia, a serious health condition. However, both are distinct conditions. People can have hypertension before or during pregnancy. Typically, pregnancy-induced hypertension causes a rise in blood pressure in the second half of pregnancy. It affects 10% of pregnancies. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-related condition that causes high blood pressure.
Ingredients, tips, and recipes
Smoothies have the potential to provide a lot of nutrition in a single drink. However, it depends on the ingredients. With healthy ingredients, smoothies can be a part of a person’s eating plan for weight loss. Store-bought smoothie varieties may contain higher levels of added sugar. Therefore, it can be more nutritious to make smoothies at home. Around 42.4% of adults in the United States and approximately 19.3% of children and adolescents have obesity.
Foods to eat for recovery
Diet is an important part of recovery following a stroke. It may involve making changes to help prevent further strokes, as well as adjustments that accommodate any symptoms a person has, such as difficulty swallowing. Diet for stroke prevention typically involves eating lots of fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and foods low in added salt.
Causes, symptoms, treatment, and more
Some people experience leg pain after a heart ablation procedure at the insertion site of the catheter. Alternatively, they may have an allergic reaction to the medication they receive alongside the procedure. A heart ablation involves a doctor using a catheter, which is a thin tube, to stop abnormal electrical signals from traveling through the heart and causing an irregular heartbeat. They will pass the catheter through a person’s blood vessels until it reaches the heart.
Symptoms, causes, and treatment
Broca’s aphasia causes difficulty with spontaneous, fluent speech. People with this condition typically leave out linking words in sentences, such as “and,” “on,” or “but.” They may also speak in short sentences with a reduced vocabulary. The condition gets its name from the French physician Pierre Paul Broca, who first recognized it in 1861. Researchers believe Broca’s aphasia happens because of dysfunction of the part of the brain called the cerebral cortex.
Symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, & more
Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) is a rare, degenerative neurological condition. It usually starts in middle age and can cause symptoms similar to those of Parkinson’s disease. PSP can cause Parkinson’s-like symptoms, including issues with balance and muscle stiffness. This similarity can delay a correct diagnosis of PSP. There is currently no cure for PSP. However, working with a multidisciplinary healthcare team can help someone cope with the wide range of possible symptoms they may experience.
Symptoms, causes, and more
A few conditions affecting the carotid arteries can lead to neck pain. For instance, some people experience neck pain due to inflammation of the blood vessels. This is known as carotidynia. Carotid artery dissection can also cause pain in the neck. This condition occurs due to a tear in the artery, sometimes due to an injury. It is a medical emergency and can lead to a stroke. However, neck pain can also occur for other reasons, such as sleeping awkwardly, sitting for too long, or pinching a nerve.
What can cause them?
Bleeding into the inner layer of the skin, also known as the dermis, causes a purpuric rash. Some factors may make a person more susceptible to purpuric rashes, for example, taking certain medications. A person with a purpuric rash has raised red or purple spots similar to small bruises or blood spots, measuring more than 2 millimeters (mm) across. Petechiae are a type of this spot smaller than 2 mm across.
Non arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION): What is it?
Non-arteritic ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION) is an eye condition that may restrict blood flow to the optic nerve. This results in painless, sudden-onset vision loss in one eye. Doctors do not know what causes NAION, but they think it could be related to sleep apnea and certain medications, such as sildenafil (Viagra). However, other health conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension, can increase a person’s likelihood of developing NAION.
How may gallstones develop after pregnancy? Symptoms and treatment
Gallstones can develop in the gallbladder when components in the bile become unbalanced. Pregnancy may trigger gallstone formation due to increases in estrogen and progesterone hormones. Rapid weight loss following the delivery of a baby may also play a role. The most obvious symptom is sudden-onset and severe abdominal pain. However, most people with gallstones do not experience any symptoms. Symptoms can still occur in some people.
How it works and risks
Doctors sometimes recommend lung coils to help someone manage severe emphysema, especially when other treatments have been unsuccessful. Their benefits include increased lung volume, exercise capacity, and quality of life. Cigarette smoking is the main cause of emphysema. The condition often leads to the destruction of the small air sacs (the alveoli) in the lungs, creating fewer and larger sacs. This change affects the lungs’ ability to exchange gases.
Living with chronic pain
Many people across the world live with chronic pain. People can try to manage chronic pain by exercising, enjoying an active social life, and following any medication and treatment regimens their doctor prescribes. Doctors may classify pain as acute (short-term), subacute (medium-term), or chronic (long-term), depending on how long it lasts. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, acute pain lasts less than a month.
Vaginal cancer prognosis by stage, age, and cancer type
According to data from 2012–2018, those with vaginal cancer have a 51% likelihood of surviving for at least 5 years from the date of their diagnosis compared with people without the disease. This is known as a relative survival rate. However, the relative survival rate will vary according to several factors, including how advanced the cancer is, the type of cancer, a person’s age, and response to treatment.
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