POT syndrome definition and facts* *POT syndrome definition and facts medically reviewed by Melissa Conrad Stoppler, MD. POTS is a condition characterized by too little blood returning to the heart when moving from a lying down to a standing up position. Symptoms can include fainting, dizziness, or lightheadedness when standing up from a reclining position. The reduced blood flow to...
Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and Parkinson’s Disease
Introduction to Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Progressive supranuclear palsy, or PSP, is a rare neurodegenerative disease that is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s disease because it carries similar symptoms. Because of its rarity, PSP is mostly unknown by the general public. What Causes PSP? PSP develops because of the deterioration of brain cells in a few small, but very important areas at...
Scabies Treatment, Symptoms, Causes, Pictures, Remedies
A doctor examines a patient’s hands for scabies.Source: Pixtal Images Facts you should know about scabies Scabies is an itchy, highly contagious skin disease caused by an infestation by the itch mite Sarcoptes scabiei. Direct skin-to-skin contact is the mode of transmission. A severe and relentless itch is the predominant symptom of scabies. Sexual contact is the most common form...
Sigmoidoscopy vs. Colonoscopy: Colon Endoscope Procedure Prep & Recovery
Sigmoidoscopy vs. colonoscopy: What’s the difference? Both sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy examine the lining of the colon, but the colonoscopy can show more of the colon. Both sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are nonsurgical procedures that involve use of a tube (endoscope) with a light and camera to examine parts of the large intestine (colon). A sigmoidoscopy is a procedure in which...
Powassan (POW) Virus Disease Symptoms, Testing & Treatment
Facts you should know about Powassan virus (POW virus) Readers Comments 3 Share Your Story Picture of a map of Powassan virus infections reported by states, 2006-2015; SOURCE: CDC Powassan viruses are members of the genus Flavivirus; there are two types, termed lineage 1 and lineage 2. Powassan virus disease is an infection caused by these viruses that may result...
Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy in Adults: Recovery & Complications
Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are surgical procedures performed to remove the tonsils and adenoids.Source: Getty Images Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy definition and facts Readers Comments 7 Share Your Story Tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy are surgical procedures performed to remove the tonsils and adenoids. The tonsils and adenoids are masses of lymphoid tissue located behind the nasal passages. All surgical procedures have risks and...
What is a Thyroid Scan? Facts on the Procedure
What is the thyroid gland? The thyroid gland makes and stores essential hormones in the body. A thyroid scan can provide information on the size, shape, and overall activity of the gland. The thyroid is a gland that makes and stores essential hormones that help regulate the heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and the rate of chemical reactions (metabolism)...
Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) Symptoms, Treatment, Causes & Definition
Facts you should know about toxic shock syndrome (TSS) Picture of skin loss in toxic shock syndrome (TSS); SOURCE: CDC Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a severe illness associated with infections. Toxic shock syndrome is caused by exotoxin(s) secreted by Streptococcus or Staphylococcus. Risk factors include use of tampons, deep wound infections, and any immunosuppressive health problems. TSS signs and...
Raynaud’s Phenomenon and Disease: Treatment, Symptoms & Causes
Source: MedicineNet Raynaud's phenomenon facts Raynaud's phenomenon is a type of vascular disease characterized by a pale to blue to red sequence of color changes of the digits, most commonly after exposure to cold. Raynaud's phenomenon occurs because of spasm of blood vessels. The cause of Raynaud's phenomenon is unknown, although abnormal nerve control of blood-vessel diameter and nerve sensitivity to...
Tommy John Surgery (Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction)
Tommy John surgery (ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction) facts Share Your Story The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is the major stabilizer of the elbow. UCL injury is an overuse injury, most often caused by the repetitive motion of throwing. Symptoms include pain over the medial part of the elbow that worsens with throwing and gets better with rest. Usually, health care...