In 2010, the "Journal of the American Medical Association" published a research study that analyzed the results of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The journal reported that...
The "Journal of the American Medical Association" reported in 2010 that more than 60 percent of Americans are either overweight or obese. Extra weight doesn't just mean you can't fit into your favorite pair of jeans, but also increases your risk...
A diagnostic procedure called cardiac catheterization may be used to evaluate certain patients for heart defects, damage or disease. Despite the beneficial aspects of this procedure, cardiac catheterization may not be appropriate for all patients....
Diverticulitis is a disease in which small pouches in the lining of the colon that bulge outward, known as diverticulum, become inflamed, infected or rupture. This results in an infection of the surrounding tissues. Diverticulitis can also cause...
Chronic renal failure is a serious medical condition characterized the progressive loss of normal kidney function. When your kidneys fail, you lose your normal ability to limit the amount of phosphorus, or phosphate, in your bloodstream. To...
Psoriasis is a chronic, immunological condition characterized by an over production of skin cells that pile up on the skin, forming lesions or plaque-like areas. Excimer laser therapy offers targeted phototherapy treatment to the stubborn...
Phosphorus is a mineral found in a wide variety of foods. When you eat these foods, your body takes their phosphorus content and creates a related substance called phosphate. Most of this phosphate is held in your bones; however, a small...
Cells in the pancreas produce insulin, a hormone that metabolizes blood glucose or blood sugar for use as energy. People develop type 2 diabetes when cells in the liver, muscles and fat cannot effectively use insulin, resulting in high blood...
A meatless, or vegetarian, diet can be as nutritious as a diet that contains meat, with adequate planning, according to the "Journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants." This approach includes eating a variety of foods that together...
Doctors use the term tremor to describe unintentional and rhythmic muscle movements that affect at least one part of the body. Tremors are commonly seen in the hands, but can also affect the arms, legs, face, head and voice. Tremors can occur as a...
Humans are creatures of habit, so you should expect nothing different from your baby. Since you cannot verbally explain to your baby that it’s time to go to sleep, developing a bedtime routine will improve his sleep habits. According to the...
Nopal, or prickly pear cactus, is native to the southwestern United States and Central America, including Mexico. It has traditionally been used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. The plant is high in fiber and antioxidants, and is found in...
Doctors prescribe statins to people with high cholesterol who are at a high risk for stroke or heart disease in an effort to lower their cholesterol. Different types of statins are available, but these medications have side effects and interact...
Diets that promise quick, guaranteed results with little or no effort typically are fraudulent. According to the Colorado State University Extension, regardless of their efficacy, Americans spent close to $40 billion on complementary dietary aids...
The Achilles tendon is a band of cord-like tissue that connects the calf muscles at the back of the leg to the heel bone. Because of the stress placed on it from running, jumping and walking, tendinitis can develop from overuse or intense...
Low-carbohydrate diets replace most of the carbohydrates you eat with a higher intake of fats and protein. Commercial low-carbohydrate diets, such as the Atkin's diet are known to promote fast weight loss. This is due to water loss, a decreased...
When examining your feet, you may notice small, white bumps on your heels. These bumps are normally painless and cause a mere fascination with what they are and why you have them. According to the "Journal of the American Academy of Physician's...
A fitness support groups is an option for those who are having difficulty achieving their fitness goals or would like to connect with others who are trying to lose weight as well or improve their physical activity. More often than not, a fitness...
When skin is injured, the skin forms scar tissue as a normal part of the healing process. Common injuries that result in scars include cuts, burns and skin diseases, such as acne. Most scars improve over time. However, if your scar is still...
A dry throat may be a temporary condition created by weather or wind, but chronically dry throat may indicate the presence of disease. Dry throat may be accompanied by body aches, cough, nasal drainage, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or fever. These...
Weight lifting equipment can cause serious injuries, even death, if not used properly, report doctors at the American Academy of Family Physicians. Serious weight lifters and amateur fitness enthusiasts should follow basic safety guidelines when...
Diet pills may be helpful if you are obese and attempting to lose weight, but some are associated with significant side effects and health risks. When combined with dietary changes and regular exercise, FamilyDoctor.org, a website run by the...
Exercise is an excellent way to bust stress, the Mayo Clinic advises on its website. Physical activity raises endorphin levels, which promotes a sense of well-being. A person's mood improves while anxiety levels drop. Exercise even helps...
