Gout is an inflammation within a joint caused by the buildup of uric acid. It is often thought of as an “old man’s” disease. In reality, it affects about 2 percent of men over age 30 and women over age 50.
Regular exercise is among the most beneficial health-promoting activities we can do for ourselves. There is no drug or medical treatment that can even come close to the benefits gained with regular physical activity.
Many of the symptoms of relatively simple and benign medical conditions can mimic those of more serious illnesses. For example, individuals suffering from a panic attack or gastroesophageal reflux disease may think they are having a heart attack.
Nosebleeds (epistaxis) will occur in up to sixty percent of all individuals. Episodes are more common in children less than ten years old and then peak again after age fifty. Fortunately, most cases are minor and self-limited, not needing medical attention.
Energy drinks have become quite popular over the last few years. However, because of their increased popularity and more widespread use, their potentially harmful effects are also coming to light.
Fish oils are gaining popularity as a dietary supplement. But is there a link between high consumption of fish and a lower risk of heart disease, and if so, who may benefit?
The spleen gets very little respect. It was thought in ancient times that the spleen was the seat of emotions and passion, ill temper and melancholy. Hence, the phrase “to vent one’s spleen”. Like the appendix, one can live without a spleen.
Sodium chloride (NaCl), or normal table salt, is an essential nutrient for normal function of the human body. But like many aspects of life, too much of a good thing can sometimes be bad for you.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is recommending that all “Baby Boomers,” individuals born between 1945 and 1965, be tested for Hepatitis C virus infection. Adults who were born between these years make up 75 percent of hepatitis C infected adults.
The flu season is upon us. Historically, peak influenza cases in Virginia are seen in February. Last year, overall influenza infections were at a minimum, partially due to the mild winter weather.
