A stethoscope in the shape of a heart on a heartbeat pulse graph.Source: Getty Images Facts you should know about atrial fibrillation (AFib) Atrial fibrillation (also referred to as AFib or AF) is the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm. Atrial fibrillation is caused by abnormal electrical discharges (signals) that generate chaotically throughout the upper chambers of the heart...
Atopic Dermatitis vs. Eczema: Differences, Cause & Treatment
What is atopic dermatitis? What is eczema? Both atopic dermatitis and eczema can cause itchy, flaky skin. Atopic dermatitis and eczema both refer to skin conditions. Atopic dermatitis is a cause of eczema, which refers to skin conditions that cause inflammation and irritation. The terms are sometimes used interchangeably. Atopic dermatitis is a common chronic skin condition that results in...
Atopic Dermatitis Symptoms, Causes, vs. Eczema, Remedies & Treatment
Atopic dermatitis facts In atopic dermatitis, the skin becomes extremely itchy and inflamed, causing redness, swelling, vesicle formation (minute blisters), Atopic dermatitis is a chronic eczematous skin disease that usually begins in childhood. A predisposition to atopic dermatitis is inherited. Patients with atopic dermatitis have "super sensitive" skin and a decreased threshold for irritation. Acute atopic dermatitis produces weeping, oozing...
7 DVT Early Symptoms, Tests, Prevention, Causes & Treatments
Facts you should know about deep vein thrombosis (DVT) Picture of how red blood cells and platelets form a blood clot There are both superficial and deep veins in the limbs or extremities (arms and legs). A blood clot in the deep veins is a concern because it can cause life-threatening complications. A blood clot (thrombus) in the deep venous...
Gout Treatment, Diet, Cause, Symptoms, Definition & Medication
What is gout, and what are gout symptoms and treatment options?Source: Getty Images Facts you should know about gout (gouty arthritis) Gout is a type of arthritis that causes inflammation, usually in one joint, that begins suddenly. Gouty arthritis is caused by the deposition of needle-like crystals of uric acid in a joint. Gout symptoms and signs include nodules under the...
Are Belly Bands Safe During Pregnancy?
What are belly bands? Belly bands are stretchy garments designed to support the lower back, hips, pelvis, and abdomen during pregnancy. While there are many benefits to belly bands, there are risks. Belly bands can cause muscle weakness and overdependence due to overuse, changes to your baby's heart rate, increased pain, and skin irritation. During pregnancy — and after —...
How Long Does It Take to Put Tubes in Your Ears?
How long does it take to put tubes in your ears? It takes approximately 15 minutes to put tubes in your eardrums. Ear tubes or tympanostomy tubes are tiny plastic or metal tubes placed through the eardrum to drain fluid from the middle ear. It usually takes about 15 minutes to put tubes into your ears. There are three steps...
How Does a Man Know if He Has HPV?
What is HPV in men? HPV can appear as noncancerous tumors called warts or papillomas. High-risk HPV does not usually have any symptoms and can develop into cancer. HPV is a group of viruses that can be spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex, or through close skin-to-skin contact. HPV stands for human papilloma virus, and you can transmit it...
How Are Facial Fractures Treated?
How are facial fractures treated? Facial fractures are treated with surgery. Patients with facial fractures are usually seen and treated in the emergency department. The definitive diagnosis usually requires imaging in the form of a computed tomography (CT) scan. This aids in both the diagnosis and treatment planning of the facial fracture. The majority of patients with facial fractures can...
How Can You Get Rid of Worms in a Puppy?
Dogs and puppies are ideal hosts for worms and other parasites. Dogs and puppies are ideal hosts for worms and other parasites. If your puppy is losing weight and has diarrhea and/or vomiting, then consult a vet to confirm the type of worm. Depending on the type of worm, your vet will suggest the test and treatment. Deworming: It is...