What is asthma in children? Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways, characterized by recurrent, reversible, airway obstruction. Airway inflammation leads to airway hyperreactivity, which causes the airways to narrow in response to various stimuli, including allergens, exercise, and cold air. How common is asthma in children? Asthma is the most common chronic...
What is a CT coronary angiogram? A new test is available to diagnose coronary artery disease. In the past, noninvasive functional tests of the heart were used, such as treadmill tests and nuclear studies, to indirectly assess if there were blockages in the coronary arteries. The only way to directly look at the coronary arteries...
Still's disease facts A salmon-colored rash may be a sign of juvenile RA. Still's disease is commonly associated with a high spiking fever and a rash that doesn't itch. Still's disease always causes joint inflammation (arthritis). The cause of Still's disease is not known. Still's disease can be associated with inflammation of internal organs. Still's...
A woman experiencing abdominal pain.Source: iStock Facts you should know about diverticulosis and diverticulitis Readers Comments 25 Share Your Story Most people with diverticulosis (diverticular disease) have few or no symptoms, and the symptoms that occur with diverticulosis probably are not caused by the diverticula, even though this has been referred to as "diverticular disease."...
What is a cystoscopy? A cystoscopy is an examination of the inside of the bladder and urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body. In men, the urethra is the tube that runs through the penis. The doctor performing the examination uses a cystoscope — a long, thin...
Facts you should know about scleroderma Scleroderma is a skin disease of the connective tissue featuring thickened skin that can involve scarring, blood vessel problems, varying degrees of inflammation and pain, and is associated with an overactive immune system. CREST syndrome is a limited form of scleroderma. Patients with scleroderma can have specific antibodies (ANA,...
A woman may only have about 60 hours during the cycle when conception is possible. A woman may only have about 60 hours or less than 2.5 days during the cycle when conception is possible. Once the egg dies, a woman may no longer be fertile, and their period will come to start the next...
Anorexia nervosa facts Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric condition, which is part of a group of eating disorders. The cause of anorexia has not been definitively established, but self-esteem and body-image issues, societal pressures, and genetic factors likely each play a role. Anorexia affects females far more often than males and is most common in...
Urinary incontinence products for men introduction Lots of men hate the idea of using incontinence products — the so-called adult diapers, urine collection bags, and catheters. But if you’re having a problem with male incontinence, these products can really help. They can prevent embarrassing accidents, simplify your life, and increase your confidence. Here’s a rundown...
Illustration of the colonoscope in the colon during a colonoscopy procedure.Source: MedicineNet What is a colonoscopy? Readers Comments 100 Share Your Story Colonoscopy is a procedure that enables an examiner (usually a gastroenterologist) to evaluate the inside of the colon (large intestine or large bowel). The colonoscope is a four-foot long, flexible tube about the...