What Is a Pilonidal Cystectomy?

Pilonidal cysts are usually seen along the tailbone. Surgical removal of cysts that usually develops in the crease of the buttocks is called pilonidal cystectomy. Pilonidal cysts are usually seen along the tailbone. These cysts may contain hair and skin debris. They may resemble a large pimple and are usually considered painful with swelling and infection. Pilonidal cysts usually occur...

What Does Potassium Do for Your Body?

Potassium is an essential micro-mineral in the body. Potassium is an essential micro-mineral in the body. The potassium ions present in blood control nerve function and heart rate. 98 percent of the potassium in the body is found inside the cells. Appropriate potassium intake (100 milligrams per day) is required for healthy functioning of the body systems. Potassium rich diet...

What Happens If Fibroids Go Untreated?

What is a fibroid? Your fertility issues could be tied to the presence of undiagnosed fibroids. Fibroids are tumors made of smooth muscle that can grow in the walls of a woman’s uterus. It’s estimated that about one in five women will develop fibroids while they are in the childbearing age range. By age 50, almost half of all women...

What Causes Hypercapnia?

Hypercapnia refers to the accumulation of carbon dioxide Hypercapnia refers to the accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the blood. There are various causes of hypercapnia such as: Brainstem disease Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) Hypothermia (a low body temperature, which is a medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster) Metabolic disorders, including: Hypothyroidism Hyperthyroidism Nervous system disorders...

What Is a Sural Nerve Block?

What is a sural nerve block? A sural nerve block is a procedure for anesthetizing a part of the calf, lower leg, heel and foot. An anesthetic solution is injected adjacent to the Achilles tendon on the outer side of the foot. The anesthetic blocks the transmission of pain signals from injury or surgery in these parts of the lower...

What Is a Significant Early Sign of an Endometrial Carcinoma?

An endometrial carcinoma, also commonly referred to as uterine cancer, means cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrium). An endometrial carcinoma, also commonly referred to as uterine cancer, means cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrium). It is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system. It usually causes signs and symptoms in its earlier stages. The...

What Is “Normal” Blood Pressure?

Normal blood pressure is when the pressure is less than or up to 120/80 mmHg Normal blood pressure is when the pressure is less than or up to 120/80 mmHg. The value 120 denotes the systolic pressure, and the value 80 denotes the diastolic pressure.  Any measurement above this value needs doctor consultation. Maintaining the blood pressure in the normal...

What Is Turbinectomy Surgery?

The turbinectomy is the surgery done to reduce the size of nasal turbinates. The turbinectomy is the surgery done to reduce the size of nasal turbinates. The turbinates are a shell-shaped network of bones and tissues within the nasal passage. There are three turbinates, each on the sides of the nasal cavities. They are called superior, middle, and inferior turbinates....

What Does Dermatitis Herpetiformis Look Like?

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) or Duhring’s disease looks similar to herpes lesion Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) or Duhring’s disease looks similar to herpes lesion (a cluster of dew drops over skin) but is not caused by herpes virus. It is characterized by a cluster of red, itchy, bumpy skin rashes that may affect the elbows, knees, buttocks, lower back, and scalp. The...

What Happens If Hypothyroidism Is Left Untreated?

If hypothyroidism is not treated, it can lead to various complications If hypothyroidism is not treated, it can lead to various complications, such as : Goiter: The lack of thyroid hormone causes constant stimulation of the thyroid gland that eventually leads to its enlargement. This is called a goiter. Goiter can cause cosmetic concerns and affect breathing and swallowing. Cardiac...