The movements often occur as jerking or flexing movements of the legs. Periodic limb movement disorder or PLMD is a type of sleep disorder that causes a person’s limbs, legs, and sometimes arms to move repetitively and uncontrollably during sleep. The exact cause of PLMD is unknown. Researchers believe that the disorder may be related to low iron levels in...
Stomach Flu vs Food Poisoning Symptoms, Causes, and Cures
What is the difference between the stomach flu vs. food poisoning? Share Your Story Listeria is bacteria that can cause a disease known as listeriosis. What is the stomach flu (viral gastroenteritis)? People use the term "stomach flu" to refer to a feeling of being sick with unpleasant symptoms such as: Fever Nausea Vomiting, abdominal (stomach) cramping or pain Diarrhea...
Eustachian Tube Dysfunction: Treatment, Causes, Surgery & Healing Time
What should you know about Eustachian tubes? Readers Comments 77 Share Your Story The main function of the Eustachian tube is to ventilate the middle ear space. What are the Eustachian tubes? The Eustachian tube originates in the rear of the nose adjacent to the soft palate, runs a slightly uphill course, and ends in the middle ear space. The Eustachian...
Are Contact Lenses Safe?
Contact lenses are usually a safe and effective form of vision correction Contact lenses are usually a safe and effective form of vision correction; however, they are not devoid of risks. A contact lens is a medical device that requires lots of care and personal cleanliness to decrease the chance of eye infection. It is necessary to clean and store...
How Do I Calculate My BMI? Calculator, Chart & Health Benefits
BMI is a way to determine if a person is underweight, normal weight, overweight or obese. Body mass index (BMI) is a measurement of body fat based on height and weight. The formula for calculating BMI is given in Table 1 or you can use the body mass index calculator below. Maintaining a healthy weight offers the following health benefits:...
Direct vs. Indirect Hernia: Similarities and Differences
Facts you should know about direct vs. indirect hernias Readers Comments 1 Share Your Story Approximately 800,000 hernia surgeries are performed every year in the U.S. Inguinal hernias are diagnosed by physical examination. Surgery (laparoscopic or open technique) is the standard treatment for a hernia. Hernia compilations can range from minor pain to a need for emergency surgery. What are...
Can You Live a Long Life With Cystic Fibrosis?
Can you live a long life with cystic fibrosis? Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive disease that needs daily care. Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a progressive disease that needs daily care. Though a patient needs to take medications lifelong, most people with cystic fibrosis are usually able to attend school and work. The improvement in screening and treatments mean that people with CF now...
Dandruff vs. Dry Scalp: Differences & Similarities
What is dandruff? Share Your Story The exact origin of the term is rather obscure. Dander consists of white to tan flakes found on fur or feathers. Ruff, the second syllable, probably originates from the word scurfy, which means scale arising from the most superficial layer of the skin. In any case, dandruff is the popular term for the small...
How Long Does It Take to Recover From Breast Reduction?
Most patients can perform routine daily activities on their own after a week and resume light activities two weeks after surgery. Complete recovery after breast reduction usually takes around 8-12 weeks. Following breast reduction, most patients are usually discharged 24-48 hours later. The doctor provides medication and several supportive measures. Most patients can perform routine daily activities on their own...
Can Urinary Incontinence Be Reversed?
Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. Urinary incontinence can happen to anyone and the severity varies depending on the age, cause, and type of urinary incontinence. Most cases of urinary incontinence can be cured or controlled with appropriate treatment. What is urinary incontinence? Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control. The severity ranges from occasionally leaking urine...