What is a metatarsophalangeal arthrocentesis? Joint aspiration (arthrocentesis) of the metatarsophalangeal joint (in the foot) extracts synovial fluid to help diagnose arthritis. Joint aspiration (arthrocentesis) of the metatarsophalangeal joint (in the foot) is a diagnostic procedure involving the extraction and analysis of the synovial fluid in the joints. A relatively quick procedure, it is an important component in diagnosing arthritis...
What Causes Hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism results when the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones. Hypothyroidism results when the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones. Hypothyroidism may be due to a number of factors: Autoimmune disease: Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disease (when the body’s immune system attacks its own cells) of the thyroid. The risk factors could be genetic, stress-induced, or environmental...
What Does an Angina Attack Feel Like?
What does an angina attack feel like? Angina attacks are a type of chest pain that occurs when the heart is not getting enough blood. An angina attack feels like squeezing pressure in your chest, back, arms, neck or shoulders. You may also feel like you have indigestion or an upset stomach. Angina attacks are chest pains caused when there...
What Is a Tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy is performed for restricted airways A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening in the front part of the neck to place a tube into a person’s windpipe. The tube is inserted through a cut in the neck in the space between the thyroid gland and breastbone. This allows air to enter the lungs. Breathing...
What Color Light Is Best for Depression?
Blue light therapy can be used to treat depression Full spectrum bright fluorescent light that simulates the wavelengths of natural daylight is the most effective light therapy for certain types of depression. It is part of the first line treatment for a type of depression that occurs with change in seasons, known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD), but also useful...
What Causes Cachexia?
Cachexia or wasting syndrome involves a complex change in the body Cachexia or wasting syndrome involves a complex change in the body, causing the body to lose weight and muscles. There isn’t clear evidence as to how cachexia occurs. With cachexia, the cells in the muscles, fat, and liver fail to respond well to the hormone insulin. As a result,...
What Country Has the Most Type 1 Diabetics?
According to research, type 1 diabetes is most common among non-Hispanic Caucasians, followed by African Americans and Hispanic Americans. The highest incidence rates are found in Finland and Italy and the lowest rates are found in South American countries, such as Venezuela and Brazil and Asian countries, such as China or Thailand. According to research, type 1 diabetes is most...
What Foods Are Highest in Fiber? 26 High-Fiber Foods
Highest in fiber Fiber is a type of carbohydrate your body cannot break down. Fiber, also known as roughage, is a type of carbohydrate your body cannot break down. It passes through your body undigested and does a lot of work for your digestive system along the way. Your diet is the major source of fiber. The Health benefits of fiber are as follows. Helps prevent or...
What Causes Low Blood Pressure in Pregnancy?
What is low blood pressure? Low blood pressure in pregnancy is normal. However, there may be other conditions that contribute to low blood pressure, including heart conditions, anemia, allergic reactions, dehydration, and more. Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of arteries. When blood pressure is too low, also called hypotension, blood doesn’t reach the entire body....
What Causes Thrush in Adults?
What is thrush? Thrush in adults is caused by an overgrowth of the yeast Candida Albicans that can be caused by diabetes, medications, radiation or chemotherapy, immune system disorders, and some oral health conditions. Thrush is a fungal infection that occurs in your mouth and throat. Under normal conditions, your body contains millions of yeast and fungi. They usually cause...