How painful is a tonsillectomy? A tonsillectomy is the removal of the tonsils from the back of the throat. Removing the tonsils is painful and unpleasant. Tonsillectomy is the removal of two oval-shaped tissue pads, named tonsils, from the back of the throat. Tonsillectomy is a popular treatment for airway obstruction and recurrent tonsillar infection in children. However, the painful...
Leukoplakia: Get the Facts on Treatment
Introduction Leukoplakia is a white or gray patch that develops on the tongue or the inside of the cheek. It is the mouth's reaction to chronic irritation of the mucous membranes of the mouth. Leukoplakia patches can also develop on the female genital area; however, the cause of this is unknown. The growth can occur at any time in your...
How Long Does Ovulation Last Each Month?
What is ovulation? Ovulation is the part of the woman's cycle where she is fertile and can become pregnant. A woman’s complete menstrual cycle is usually 24 to 37 days long, although some women may have somewhat shorter or longer cycles. Ovulation is your fertile phase of each month. During this phase, your ovaries (a woman’s reproductive organs) release an...
Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) Injury Symptoms, Tests, Treatment & Recovery Time
Facts you should know about medial collateral ligament (MCL) injury Picture of the ligaments in the knee joint The medial collateral ligament is one of four ligaments that help stabilize the knee. Medical professionals refer to knee injuries that involve the MCL injuries as sprains or tears. A direct blow to the knee or a noncontact injury due to cutting...
What Are the Normal Cholesterol Levels According to Age? Chart
Different types of cholesterol exist in the body. Their normal values (measured in milligrams per deciliter or mg/dL) vary according to a person’s age and gender. Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in all the cells of the body. It is a type of fat that is produced by the liver. Cholesterol also comes from animal-derived foods, such as meat and...
What Is the Life Expectancy of a Person With Addison Disease?
Addison’s disease is a rare disease of the adrenal glands. Addison disease is a lifelong condition that can be treated successfully with the replacement of steroid hormones. People with Addison disease can have a normal life span because cases of Addison disease may go undiagnosed, and it is difficult to determine its true frequency in the general population. A study...
Why Is Meconium Ileus Diagnostic for Cystic Fibrosis?
What does meconium ileus mean? Meconium ileus is an obstruction in the small intestine caused by thick, congealed meconium, the first stool passed by a newborn baby. Cystic fibrosis, a genetic disorder, is a common cause of this problem. Meconium ileus is an obstruction in the small intestine caused by thick, congealed meconium. Meconium is the first stool passed by...
Myopia: Learn the Definition, Causes and Control
Introduction to myopia Myopia (or nearsightedness) affects 20% to 30% of the population, but this eye disorder is easily corrected with eyeglasses, contact lenses or surgery. People who have myopia or nearsightedness have difficulty seeing distant objects, but can see objects that are near clearly. For example, a person who is nearsighted may not be able to make out highway...
Common Causes of Red Spots on the Skin Without Itching: 20 Skin Disorders
Common causes of red spots on the skin without itching Most of the red spots on the skin are itchy. However, some do not itch. Enlisted here are 20 common skin disorders that cause red spots without itching. The ones that are more common in adults include: Sunburn: Sunburn is red, sometimes swollen, and a painful skin rash that is...
How to Get Rid of Psoriasis Quickly
Psoriasis treatments Psoriasis is incurable, but it responds to topical and systemic treatments Although psoriasis is incurable, it responds to topical and systemic treatments. Topical treatments that may be effective to treat mild psoriasis include creams, lotions, and sprays. Moderate-to-severe psoriasis may require treatment with ultraviolet light treatments or medications. Topical treatments for psoriasis are applied directly on the affected...