medical_disease.id,medical_disease.ts,medical_disease.title,medical_disease.content
1,"2018-04-18 03:53:44","Abdominal Pain","What is Abdominal Pain?By Brian Joseph MillerMedically Reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MDThe most common kind of abdominal pain is a stomach- or bellyache, which happens from time to time throughout our lives. Most people experience abdominal discomfort or pain at some point in their lives. Abdominal pain is usually felt in the part of the trunk below the ribs and above the pelvis and the groin, and can range in intensity from a mild ache or nausea to severe, acute, disabling pain. People with abdominal pain often double over, clutch their gut, feel nauseated or dizzy, and avoid food and water.While we don’t usually feel the inner workings of our abdomen, pain occurs when there is a disruption of the normal functioning of the organs and tissues inside, including the stomach, small intestine, colon, liver, gallbladder, spleen, and pancreas. The most common kind of abdominal pain is a stomach- or bellyache, which happens from time to time throughout our lives. While abdominal pain isn’t normal, it isn’t necessarily serious, and it often resolves itself.The first step to addressing mild stomach pain not associated with a medical condition or trauma is to try to identify and avoid the trigger. For example, overeating or eating rich or gas-inducing food can cause heartburn, distended stomach, and abdominal pain, which can be avoided by practicing dietary changes and moderation. Some people find relief from stomachaches by lying on their left side, which may ease pressure on the digestive tract.You can prevent discomfort caused by constipation by consuming fiber-rich foods and increasing your water intake. Some women experience severe cramping and pain with their monthly period. Because stress can increase stomach acid, staying calm and practicing deep breathing can help your belly stay pain free.If lifestyle or behavior changes don’t resolve abdominal pain, the next step is to consider over-the-counter pain relievers, laxatives, or antacids. Be careful to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen, because these painkillers can cause stomach upset, irritate the gastrointestinal tract, and may even cause bleeding ulcers. Your doctor or pharmacist can suggest alternative pain relievers that won’t bother your stomach.If abdominal pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by fever, watery diarrhea, vomiting, bloody stool, jaundice, or belly tenderness or swelling, call your doctor or healthcare provider immediately. Such complaints could indicate a serious underlying condition or internal injury, and might require treatment by a specialist or surgery. If you can’t reach a healthcare provider, you should consider going to the emergency room.Exercise, eat a healthy diet, and avoid smoking and consuming excess alcohol to reduce the chances that you will experience certain causes of stomach pain. Good hygiene, especially handwashing and avoiding materials and foods contaminated with viruses and bacteria, will reduce your chances of developing illness from many infectious causes.CausesThere are as many causes of abdominal pain as there are degrees of discomfort, and the location of the pain often indicates its cause. For example, sharp pain in the stomach, lower abdominal pain, pain on the left or right side, intestinal pain, or stomach cramps can all suggest clues to underlying conditions, as can their timing and severity.Abdominal pain can be caused by inflammation (for example, appendicitis, diverticulitis, colitis), organ distention or stretching (for example, obstruction of the intestine, blockage of a bile duct by gallstones, swelling of the liver with hepatitis), or by loss of the blood supply (for example, ischemic colitis).Some prescription and over-the-counter medications and dietary supplements cause stomach pain. Medications can irritate the stomach, causing pain and diarrhea, or slow down digestion, causing constipation. Be sure to check the label to see if the medication you are taking has abdominal pain as a side effect.Some causes of abdominal pain include: IndigestionConstipationStomach virusMenstrual crampsIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS)Food poisoningFood allergiesGasLactose intoleranceUlcersPelvic inflammatory diseaseHerniaGallstonesKidney stonesEndometriosisCrohn's disease or ulcerative colitisUrinary tract infection (UTI)Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)AppendicitisDiverticulitisCancer (pancreatic, stomach, or liver)SymptomsSymptoms that commonly occur with abdominal pain include back pain, chest pain, constipation, diarrhea, fever, nausea, vomiting, cough, and difficulty breathing. Characteristics of the pain (for example, sharp, cramping, radiating), the location of the pain within the abdominal area, and its relation to eating, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea are all factors associated with symptoms.Symptoms associated with abdominal pain include:FeverInability to keep food down for more than two daysAny signs of dehydrationInability to pass stool, especially if you are also vomitingPainful or unusually frequent urinationThe abdomen is tender to the touchThe pain is the result of an injury to the abdomenThe pain lasts for more than a few hoursBloatingBelchingGas (flatus, farting)IndigestionDiscomfort in the upper left or right; middle; or lower left or right abdomenConstipationDiarrheaGERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease)HeartburnChest discomfortPelvic discomfortLoss of appetiteMore serious symptoms include:Severe painBloody stoolsPersistent nausea and vomitingUnintended weight lossSkin that appears yellowSevere tenderness when you touch your abdomenSwelling of the abdomenDiagnosisThe cause of abdominal pain is diagnosed on the basis of its characteristics, a physical examination, and testing. Your physician is likely to ask you a series of questions about the characteristics of the pain, the patterns and persistence of pain, and whether you have any underlying physical or mental conditions that could be contributing to your abdominal pain.Diagnosis for abdominal pain may involve: Physical examinationLaboratory tests — complete blood count (CBC), liver enzymes, pancreatic enzymes (amylase and lipase), pregnancy, and urinalysis testsPlain X-rays of the abdomenRadiographic studiesUltrasoundComputerized tomography (CT) of the abdomen (this includes all organs and the intestines)Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Barium X-raysCapsule endoscopyEndoscopic procedures, including esophagogastroduodenoscopy or EGDColonoscopy or flexible sigmoidoscopyEndoscopic ultrasound (EUS)TreatmentsThe treatment for abdominal pain depends on its cause. Treatments can range from medications for inflammation, GERD, or ulcers, to antibiotics for infections, to changes in personal behavior for abdominal pain caused by certain foods or beverages. In some cases, such as appendicitis and hernia, diagnostic tests, such as analyses of blood, urine, and stool samples, CT scans, and endoscopy, may be required to rule out or confirm a specific diagnosis, and surgery may be needed.Over-the-counter pain relieversPrescription medications for inflammation, GERD, ulcers, or general painAntibioticsLow-dose antidepressantsChanges in behavior, including elimination of certain foods or beverages that may be contributing to abdominal painSurgery to remove intestinal blockages, hernia, or infected organs.Last Updated: 4/20/2017"
2,"2018-04-18 03:54:36",Abortion,"What Is an Abortion?By Lindsey KonkelMedically Reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MDAn abortion is a medical procedure to end a pregnancy. Abortion is the termination of a pregnancy. In an abortion procedure, the fetus is removed from the mother's womb.The procedure is performed in a hospital or clinic by a doctor, or by another healthcare provider licensed to perform abortions.Many U.S. states require women to undergo counseling if they're considering an abortion.Abortion ProceduresThere are two main types of abortion procedures:Medication Medicines can be taken that block certain hormones needed for pregnancy. They cause the uterus to expel the fetus on its own.Surgery Different surgical techniques can be used to remove the fetus from the womb.The type of procedure your doctor recommends will depend on a number of factors, including how far along you are in your pregnancy.Abortion PrevalenceAccording to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 700,000 abortions were performed in the United States in 2012.The CDC estimates that the abortion rate is 210 abortions for every 1,000 live births in the United States, or 13.2 abortions for every 1,000 women between ages 15 and 44.Unintended pregnancy is the biggest cause for abortion.About 4 in 10 unintended pregnancies ended in abortion in 2011, according to the Guttmacher Institute, a nonprofit organization that tracks U.S. abortions.The Guttmacher Institute estimates that about 3 in 10 U.S. women will have an abortion by age 45.Does an Abortion Hurt?Many women experience some level of pain during an abortion.Women undergoing a medical (medication) abortion may have abdominal cramping that feels like strong menstrual cramps. Some women also experience nausea and diarrhea. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications, including Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Advil or Motrin (ibuprofen), can help with cramps.A surgical abortion also can feel like strong menstrual cramps.During a surgical abortion, your doctor may give you an anesthetic injection called a paracervical block to numb the cervix (the area around the opening of the uterus).Call your doctor if you experience any of the following side effects after an abortion:Fever for more than four hoursHeavy vaginal bleeding (bleeding through more than two sanitary pads per hour)Severe abdominal or back painFoul-smelling vaginal dischargeFew research studies have examined whether an abortion causes pain to the fetus. Limited evidence suggests that fetuses don't feel pain before the beginning of the third trimester (at 28 weeks, or about six months).Sex After AbortionIt takes a few weeks for the tissues of the uterus and cervix to heal after an abortion.While healing, those tissues may be more susceptible to infection. For this reason, doctors typically recommend waiting at least two to three weeks before having vaginal sex again.Pregnancy After AbortionHaving an abortion usually doesn't affect your ability to get pregnant again.Researchers aren't sure whether having an abortion increases the risk of complications in future pregnancies.Some studies have suggested that abortion may increase the risk of preterm delivery in a subsequent pregnancy. Other studies have found no greater risk of giving birth prematurely.Abortion and Mental HealthStudies have found that in most women, having an abortion does not harm long-term mental health. Certain factors may increase a woman's risk of experiencing emotional distress following an abortion.These factors include:Having a mental health disorder prior to the abortionLacking adequate social support from family or friendsBeing the victim of violence, abuse, or rapeHaving a negative attitude toward abortionEnding a pregnancy because of a fetal abnormalitySourcesF. W. Ling (2015). ""Overview of pregnancy termination."" UpToDate.K. Pazol, A. A. Creanga, and D. J. Jamieson (2015). ""Abortion Surveillance — United States, 2012."" MMWR Surveillance Summary.Induced Abortions in the United States (2016); Guttmacher Institute.Last Updated: 8/5/2016 NEXT Methods"
3,"2018-04-18 03:54:57","ACE Inhibitors","What Are ACE Inhibitors?By Lynn MarksMedically Reviewed by Robert Jasmer, MDThese medicines relax blood vessels and lower the amount of salt and water in the body. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors — commonly called ACE inhibitors — prevent an enzyme in your body from producing angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to narrow and increases blood pressure.These medicines relax blood vessels and lower the amount of salt and water in the body.ACE inhibitors used to prevent or treat:High blood pressureHeart disease, congestive heart failure, and heart attackStrokeSome kidney diseasesDiabetesSclerodermaMigraine headacheACE inhibitors come in a pill, and they're typically taken on an empty stomach.In 1981, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved captopril, the first ACE inhibitor. Common ACE inhibitorsSome commonly prescribed ACE inhibitors include:Benazepril (Lotensin)Captopril (Capoten)Enalapril (Vasotec)Fosinopril (Monopril)Lisinopril (Zestril)Moexipril (Univasc)Perindopril (Aceon)Quinapril (Accupril)Ramipril (Altace)Trandolapril (Mavik)ACE Inhibitor Side EffectsSide effects of ACE inhibitors are rare. However, you might experience:Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when you first start taking the medicine or your doctor increases your doseRapid heartbeatHeadacheLoss of appetiteSalty or metallic taste in your mouthUpset stomach or diarrheaFatigueFeverNumbnessJoint painSkin rash or blistersDry coughACE Inhibitor CoughThese drugs may cause a dry cough that makes it hard for you to speak.The ACE inhibitor cough might go away after a while, but tell your doctor if it doesn't.Your healthcare provider may want to lower your dose, or switch you to a different medication.It can take up to four weeks after an ACE inhibitor is stopped for a cough to resolve if it's due to the medication.ACE Inhibitors and NSAIDsTalk to your doctor if you frequently take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) since they may make an ACE inhibitor less effective.However, occasional use of an NSAID, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, doesn't appear to be a problem for most people. ACE Inhibitors and PregnancyACE inhibitors can cause birth defects, so you shouldn't take these medicines if you're pregnant or might become pregnant.Enalapril and captopril have been found in breast milk, but no studies have shown either drug is harmful to breastfeeding infants.If you're breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about the benefits and risks of taking an ACE inhibitor before you begin using the drug.SourcesACE Inhibitors, MedlinePlus, National Institutes of HealthAngiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors, Texas Heart InstituteAngiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors, Mayo ClinicFrom Snake Venom to ACE Inhibitor -- The Discovery and Rise of Captopril, //www.pharmaceutical-journal.com/news-and-analysis/news/from-snake-venom-to-ace-inhibitor-the-discovery-and-rise-of-captopril/10884359.articleLast Updated: 10/16/2015"
4,"2018-04-18 03:55:10",Acetylcholine,"What Is Acetylcholine?By Lindsey KonkelMedically Reviewed by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MDDiet might play a role in the production of acetylcholine and a decreased risk of certain diseases. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter produced in the brain that plays an important role in muscle movements, thinking, and working memory.Working memory is the brain's ability to hold information in the mind temporarily.Problems with the production and use of acetylcholine are hallmarks of diseases such as dementia and myasthenia gravis (an autoimmune disease that weakens the muscles).Acetylcholine ReceptorsAcetylcholine receptors are proteins to which acetylcholine binds, allowing signals to flow from one nerve cell to another.Drugs that work on the acetylcholine receptors have many medical uses, including the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and myasthenia gravis.Medications that stimulate acetylcholine receptors are called agonists, while those that inhibit receptors are called antagonists.Acetylcholine and Alzheimer's DiseasePeople with Alzheimer's disease produce less acetylcholine.Medications that stop the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain, called cholinesterase inhibitors, may be prescribed to people with mild to moderate Alzheimer's symptoms.These drugs may help delay or prevent behavioral symptoms such as agitation, delusions, or sundowning (a state of confusion and distress late in the day) from becoming worse for a limited period of time. However, they may lose their effectiveness as the brain produces less and less acetylcholine.Acetylcholine Foods and SupplementsThere are no foods or supplements that contain the chemical acetylcholine, though some foods and supplements may contain the building blocks of acetylcholine.Choline is an essential nutrient and a building block of acetylcholine. Foods that are naturally high in choline include whole eggs, meats and fish, and whole grains. Studies in laboratory animals and humans suggest that consuming foods or supplements rich in choline may elevate levels of acetylcholine in the brain.This means that choline could potentially have a protective effect against certain types of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease.However, more research is needed to tease out the complicated relationship between dietary choline and brain function.SourcesAcetylcholine neurotransmitter, Neuroscience. 2nd editionAcetylcholine and Alzheimer's disease, National Institute on AgingAcetylcholine supplements, American Journal of Clinical NutritionDietary choline, U.S. Department of AgricultureLast Updated: 10/16/2015"
5,"2018-04-18 03:55:28",Acinetobacter,"What Is Acinetobacter Baumannii?By Joseph Bennington-CastroMedically Reviewed by Robert Jasmer, MDThe Acinetobacter superbug can cause diseases such as pneumonia and meningitis. Acinetobacter baumannii is a bacterium that can cause a range of diseases.It typically infects people inside a healthcare facility — doctors refer to these as ""nosocomial"" infections.There are many different species of Acinetobacter that can cause disease, but A. baumannii accounts for about 80 percent of reported Acinetobacter infections in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Acinetobacter RisksHealthy people have a very low risk of getting an A. baumannii infection, according to the CDC.The following factors increase the risk of infection:Having a weakened immune systemChronic lung diseaseDiabetesLengthy hospital staysIllnesses that require the use of a hospital ventilatorHaving an open wound treated in the hospitalTreatments requiring invasive devices like urinary cathetersAcinetobacter bacteria are not airborne, but can be spread through direct contact with surfaces, objects, or the skin of people that are contaminated with A. baumannii.Acinetobacter SymptomsAcinetobacter is an opportunistic bacterium that causes a variety of different diseases with different symptoms.Types of possible A. baumannii infections include:PneumoniaBloodstream infections (bacteremia and sepsis)Meningitis (an infection or inflammation of the meninges, the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord)Wound and surgical site infections, including the ""flesh-eating"" bacterium necrotizing fasciitisUrinary tract infections (UTI)Symptoms of A. baumannii infections are often clinically indistinguishable from those of infections caused by other opportunistic bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Bloodstream infections often initially cause symptoms like fever and chills, rash, and confusion or other altered mental states, and are often associated with an elevated lactic acid level that’s found with severe sepsis.UTIs typically cause various urinary symptoms, including pain or burning sensations while urinating, foul-smelling urine that may be cloudy or bloody, and a strong urge to urinate frequently.Meningitis may cause a number of flu-like symptoms, including fever, headache, confusion, sensitivity to bright light, and nausea (with or without vomiting).Pneumonia may cause a range of symptoms, including but not limited to:ChillsFeverHeadacheBreathing problemsMuscle pain and chest painCough, sometimes with yellow, green, or bloody mucusIn some cases, A. baumannii may colonize a site, such as an open wound or a tracheostomy site, without causing any infection or symptoms.Acinetobacter Treatment and 'Superbug' Antibiotic ResistanceThe CDC considers Acinetobacter, including A. baumannii, a serious public health threat because it's often resistant to multiple antibiotics.In fact, 63 percent of Acinetobacter strains are multidrug-resistant, the CDC notes.Before the 1970s, A. baumannii infections could be treated with a range of different antibiotics, such as aminoglycosides, β-lactams, and tetracyclines, according to a report in the journal Clinical Microbiology Reviews. Today, however, some strains of A. baumannii are resistant to most antibiotics, including first-line antibiotics and carbapenems, which are often used only as a last resort.Treating an A. baumannii infection generally requires drug susceptibility tests, which check for antibiotics that are still effective against the particular strain of bacteria.In some cases, sulbactam and polymyxin antimicrobial drugs still work against A. baumannii when other antibiotics fail.SourcesHoward et al. (2012). ""Acinetobacter baumannii."" Virulence.Acinetobacter in Healthcare Settings; CDC.Peleg et al. (2008). ""Acinetobacter baumannii: Emergence of a Successful Pathogen."" Clinical Microbiology Reviews.Last Updated: 6/18/2015"
6,"2018-04-18 03:55:39","ACL Tear","What Is an ACL Tear?By Cathy CassataMedically Reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MDA common sports injury, ACL tears occur more frequently among female athletes. An ACL tear, or torn anterior cruciate ligament, is one of the most common knee injuries.An estimated 200,000 ACL injuries occur annually, and 100,000 ACL surgeries are performed each year, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS).As one of the four primary ligaments of the knee, the ACL connects the front top part of the shinbone to the back bottom part of the thigh bone.The ACL also keeps the shin from sliding forward, and provides rotational stability to the knee.Other key knee tendons include the:Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL)Medical collateral ligament (MCL)Lateral collateral ligament (LCL)Most ACL tears occur in the middle of the ligament or when the ligament is pulled off the thigh bone.These tears form a gap between the torn edges and do not heal on their own.Damage to the meniscus, articular cartilage, or other ligaments in the knee also occurs in about half of ACL injuries.Causes and Risk FactorsACL injuries tend to happen more often in people who play high-impact sports where rapid pivoting and turning are common, such as basketball, football, skiing, and soccer.AAOS reports that about 70 percent of ACL tears happen without direct contact to the knee.In these instances, the tears tend to happen when a person is running and quickly changes direction, suddenly twists or cuts, or if they hyperextend their knee coming down from a jump.However, a direct hit to the knee, such as during a football tackle, can also cause ligaments to tear.ACL Tears in WomenWomen athletes who play pivoting sports are 2 to 10 times more likely than male athletes to sustain a knee ligament injury, such as an ACL tear, according to the AAOS.This may be due to differences in physical conditioning, muscular strength, and neuromuscular control.It might also be due to pelvis and lower leg alignment, a wider pelvis, or other anatomical differences.ACL Injury TypesThere are different severities of ACL sprains, which are categorized in the following way:Grade I sprain: Pain with minimal damage to the ligaments, but still able to help keep the knee joint stable.Grade II sprain: More ligament damage and mild looseness of the joint, often called a partial tear.Grade III sprain: The ligament is completely torn and the joint is very loose or unstable.ACL Tears in ChildrenMost ACL injuries occur in those between the ages of 15 to 45 because this group has an active lifestyle and greater participation in sports.However, studies show a rise in the number of reported ACL tears in children, with the injury seen in kids as young as age two.It isn’t clear if the increase is related to kids being more active in sports such as soccer, or other factors like increased awareness by physicians and better diagnostic techniques.Torn ACL SymptomsSigns and symptoms of a torn ACL may include the following:Knee popping: Many people feel or hear a ""popping"" in their knee when they injure their ACL.Knee hyperextension: Some people feel a brief hyperextension of the knee joint when they injure their ACL, which occurs when the knee is bent backward.Knee swelling: A large amount of swelling usually occurs within six hours of an ACL injury and may increase for two days before it gradually subsides.Knee pain and discomfort: After the injury, most people have to stop whatever activity they were doing. They feel pain or tenderness in the joint area, especially when they put weight on the injured leg.They may also feel a loss of full range of motion and an uncomfortable feeling when walking, as well as the sensation that their knee is unstable or giving in under pressure.DiagnosisTo diagnose an ACL injury, a physician will examine your knee by comparing the structures of your injured knee to your non-injured knee, and seeing which parts stay in proper position when pressure is applied in different directions.In most cases, this will allow your doctor or orthopedist to determine which ligaments are injured.When swelling makes it difficult for a healthcare provider to diagnose a tear, further tests may be recommended, including:X-rays can show if the injury is associated with a broken bone, but won’t show an injury to your ACL.MRIs create a clear image of the ACL, as well as other ligaments and cartilage, and can accurately detect a complete tear.Arthroscopy, which is the only way to determine a partial ACL tear. This involves a small surgical incision that allows the surgeon to insert a tiny lens to see the tear.ACL Treatment Whether surgery is required to repair a tear in the anterior cruciate ligament depends on a variety of factors including:Your activity level and expectations of how active you want to beThe type of work you doWhether or not cartilage and other parts of the knee are also injuredThe amount of abnormal knee laxity (joint movement)Some people who are elderly or inactive may choose not to have surgery if they can return to limited activity after rehabilitation or by wearing a brace.Younger people who want to maintain an active lifestyle or return to competitive sports are more likely to opt for surgery.People who decide not to have reconstructive surgery may experience further injury to the unstable knee joint.Additionally, many people who experience an ACL tear will, years later, show signs of osteoarthritis in the knee, but studies show that reconstruction can help reduce this rate.ACL SurgeryReconstruction surgery is the most common technique used to treat a torn ACL.During this surgery, the torn ACL is replaced with a new ligament taken from an organ donor (cadaver graft) or from one of your other tendons around the knee.These other tendons might include the hamstring at the back of the thigh, the quadriceps tendon, which runs from the kneecap into the thigh, or the patellar tendon, which attaches the bottom of the kneecap to the top of the shinbone.Once a graft is chosen, the surgeon will perform arthroscopic surgery, making small incisions in the leg using a pencil-shaped instrument that holds a camera called an arthroscope.Using the arthroscope, your surgeon can see inside of the knee.With the camera as a guide, the surgeon then drills holes in the thigh bone and shinbone and passes the new ligament through these holes to anchor the ligament in place with screws or other devices.Incisions are then closed with stiches, tape, or staples. As time goes on, the new graft becomes a living ligament in your knee.Surgery RisksThe following are potential complications of ACL reconstruction surgery:InfectionNeurovascular injuryThromboembolic diseaseDeep vein thrombosis (DVT)Graft misplacementKnee stiffnessAnterior knee painPatellar tendonitisPatella fractureAnesthesia-related complicationsInfection, neurovascular injury, thromboembolic disease, and DVT are rare.Graft misplacement can lead to motion problems, impingement, and graft failure.ACL Repair AdvancementsResearchers are working on the development of a new ACL repair procedure that doesn't require any grafts or the drilling of holes into bones.Surgeons use a sponge scaffold to hold the blood between the two torn ends of the ACL long enough for the cells and tissue around it to grow into each other, stimulating healing to the surrounding ligaments.This technique, which uses what's often called platelet-rich plasma or PRP, is currently under investigation for rotator cuff injuries, elbow tendonitis, Achilles tendon repairs, and other medical procedures, in addition to ACL injuries.Torn ACL RecoveryImmediately following surgery, you will be told to ice and elevate your knee. You may also be prescribed anti-inflammatory and pain medications, as well as given crutches to use until you can walk without them.Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to care for your knee once you're home.If you work at a desk, you may be able to return to work in one or two weeks, but if you perform physical labor, you may need to take off for three to six months.Physical TherapyPhysical therapy is an important part of recovery that includes stretching, balancing, and strength training exercises.After surgery, you'll most likely participate in a physical-therapy program for 6 to 12 months, depending on your tear and the level of activity you want to reach.If you're an athlete, rehabilitation may take longer to get you in physical condition to participate in your sport or activity.The first part of physical therapy will focus on returning proper range of motion to the ACL joint and the muscles that surround it, including the quadriceps and hamstrings.Once this is achieved, you'll be given a strengthening program that focuses on increasing stress across the ligament.In the last phase of rehabilitation, your physical therapist will assess which activities, if any, still create pain, discomfort, or instability in your knee joint, and will establish ways to work around such activities.Will I Be Able to Play Sports Again?Studies have shown that more than 90 percent of people are able to return to sports and workplace activities after surgery without symptoms of knee instability, according to the American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.You'll be able to play sports again — with or without a brace — after your leg strength, balance, and coordination have returned to near normal. The time it takes to reach this point varies from person to person.ACL Injury PreventionWhile some ACL injuries are not preventable, the following may help minimize your risk for future tears:Strength training to develop strong thigh and hamstring musclesMaintaining a stretching routine with your legsThoroughly warming up before playing sportsLearning to land on the balls of your feet rather than flat-footedWhen skiing, ensuring your ski bindings are set correctly so that your skis release when you fallSourcesThe Injured ACL; American Orthopaedic Society for Sports Medicine.An Athlete’s Nightmare: Tearing the ACL; NIH MedlinePlus.Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury (ACL); University of California.ACL Injuries in Children and Adolescents; Nationwide Children’s Hospital.ACL Injury. Does it Require Surgery?; American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Your Care at Home After ACL Surgery; Ohio State University.Last Updated: 11/24/2015"
7,"2018-04-18 03:51:18",Acne,
8,"2018-04-18 03:51:18",Addiction,
9,"2018-04-18 03:56:23",Adenoidectomy,"What Is an Adenoidectomy?By Lynn MarksMedically Reviewed by Robert Jasmer, MDThis procedure is often performed at the same time a person's tonsils are removed. An adenoidectomy is surgery to remove the adenoids.The adenoid glands are patches of tissue that sit at the back of the nasal passage.They help stop bacteria and viruses from entering the body through the nose.If the adenoids are too large, they can cause symptoms such as:Difficulty breathing through the nose or mouthSnoringNoisy breathingSleep apneaSinus problemsPersistent ear infections or other infectionsAn adenoidectomy may relieve these problems.The surgery is typically performed only if other, more conservative treatment methods aren't effective.The procedure is more common in children. It's often done at the same time as a tonsillectomy (removal of the tonsils).The Adenoidectomy ProcedureAn adenoidectomy is usually performed at a hospital or outpatient surgery center by an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor.The procedure typically takes less than 45 minutes.You'll be under general anesthesia during the surgery, which means you won't be conscious and won't feel any pain.A surgeon will place a small tool into your mouth to keep it open.Then, the surgeon will remove the adenoid glands using surgical tools.Some surgeons use electricity or radiofrequency (RF) energy to heat and remove the tissue. Surgical packing materials, such as cotton, may be used to control bleeding.The surgeon can get to the adenoids through your mouth, so there's no need to cut the skin on the outside of the body.Before an AdenoidectomyTell your doctor about any medicines you take before having an adenoidectomy. You may need to stop taking drugs such as Advil (ibuprofen) or aspirin a week before the procedure.You'll be told not to eat or drink anything the night before your surgery.Ask your doctor if you should take any of your medicines on the day of your procedure.After an AdenoidectomyYou'll probably be able to go home the same day as your procedure.Your doctor will tell you what pain medicines to take.You may want to eat light and cool foods, such as yogurt and applesauce, during the first day or so following the procedure. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids.The adenoid area should heal naturally. It will take about one to two weeks to recover completely.You may notice a change in the sound of your voice after the surgery. This is temporary and will usually only last a couple of months.Call your doctor right away if you experience: Severe or bright red bleeding from the nose or mouth (some light nasal bleeding is OK)Fever higher than 101.5 degrees FPersistent or sharp pain or headacheIncreased swelling or redness of the nose or eyesRisks of AdenoidectomyPotential risks of an adenoidectomy include:BleedingInfectionAdenoid tissue that grows backSourcesAdenoid removal; MedlinePlus.Tonsillectomy and Adenoidectomy; Boston Children's Hospital.Enlarged Adenoids; KidsHealth from Nemours.Last Updated: 10/23/2015"
10,"2018-04-18 03:51:18",ADHD,
11,"2018-04-18 03:51:18",Agoraphobia,
12,"2018-04-18 03:57:17",Alcoholism,"What Is Alcoholism?By Joseph Bennington-CastroMedically Reviewed by Robert Jasmer, MDAlcoholism, or alcohol dependence, is now recognized as part of alcohol use disorder — which also includes classic symptoms of alcohol abuse. Alcoholism is a chronic disease in which you're dependent on, or addicted to, alcohol.The disease was once considered distinct from alcohol abuse (drinking alcohol in a way that causes problems in your life), but has since been integrated into a single disorder called alcohol use disorder.Alcohol use disorder is defined in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a mental-health guide published by the American Psychiatric Association.Alcoholism causes a physiological need for alcohol, a loss of control of alcohol use, and a decline in physical and/or social functioning, ultimately affecting your life and relationships.What Is Alcohol?Most commonly known simply as alcohol, ethyl alcohol (ethanol) is an intoxicating substance found in wine, beer, and distilled spirits (liquor).Alcohol is highly flammable and is produced through the biological process of fermentation, in which yeast (a type of fungus) breaks down simple sugars into ethanol and carbon dioxide.The body rapidly absorbs alcohol from the stomach and small intestine into the bloodstream.Although enzymes in the liver metabolize (break down) alcohol, the liver can only metabolize a small amount of alcohol at a time. Excess alcohol circulates through the bloodstream to the rest of the body, affecting every organ.Alcoholism StatisticsIn the United States, 16.3 million adults — 10.6 million men and 5.7 million women — ages 18 and above suffered from alcohol use disorder (AUD) in 2014, according to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).But AUD isn't restricted to adults. The same year, an estimated 367,000 girls and 311,000 boys ages 12 to 17 had AUD in the United States.More recent estimates suggest that AUD may be more common than previously believed.An August 2015 NIAAA study in the journal JAMA Psychiatry found that 29.1 percent of American adults misuse alcohol — and meet the DSM-5's diagnostic criteria for AUD — at some point in their lives.What's more, in a given year, 13.9 percent of American adults have AUD.What Is Binge Drinking?According to the NIAAA, binge drinking involves consuming a lot of alcohol in a relatively short period of time — enough to bring your blood alcohol concentration above 0.08 percent (the legal limit; above 0.08 percent, you're considered to be driving under the influence (DUI), or driving while impaired (DWI)). Women typically reach binge-drinking status after consuming four drinks within about two hours, while for men it typically takes five drinks.A standard drink consists of 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits.Binge drinking does not necessarily indicate alcoholism. Most people who drink excessively are not alcohol dependent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).Is Alcoholism Hereditary?Alcoholism is thought to have a hereditary component, meaning that having a family history of alcohol dependence puts you at greater risk for it.In fact, genetic factors may account for as much as half of the total risk for alcoholism, according to the NIAAA.Physiological, psychological, and social factors can also play a role in the development of alcoholism, such as:ImpulsivenessLow self-esteem and strong need for approvalPovertyHistory of sexual abuseEmotional or mental disordersSocial and cultural pressureAge (drinking during adolescence)In addition to these factors, heavy, long-term drinking may cause physiological changes in the brain, such as changing how you experience pleasure, that perpetuate the desire to drink.Symptoms of AlcoholismAccording to the DSM-IV, alcoholism is associated with seven classical symptoms:Having to drink more than normal to get the desired effect (feeling ""buzzed"" or drunk)Experiencing withdrawal symptoms after the effects of alcohol wear offHaving occasions when you drink more or longer than intendedFailing to cut down on — or stop — drinking more than onceSpending a lot of time drinking and experiencing the after-effects of drinkingCutting back or giving up on other activities to drink insteadContinuing to drink even after experiencing psychological or physical health problemsTo be diagnosed with alcohol dependence under the DSM-IV, you needed to have experienced at least three of these seven symptoms within the past 12 months. As mentioned earlier, the DSM-5 only recognizes alcohol use disorder. In addition to the above symptoms, people with AUD may experience a few other symptoms, most of which were previously associated with alcohol abuse in the DSM-IV:Problems maintaining interpersonal, work, or school responsibilities because of time spent drinking or being sick from drinkingBecoming involved in situations during or after drinking that increase your risk of physical harm, such as having unsafe sex or driving under the influenceContinuing to drink even though it causes relationship problemsWanting to drink so badly that it consumes your thoughtsHaving just two of these 11 symptoms could mean that you have AUD.SourcesAlcohol Facts and Statistics; NIAAA.Drinking Levels Defined; NIAAA.What Is a Standard Drink? NIAAA.Alcohol Use Disorder: A Comparison Between DSM–IV and DSM–5; NIAAA.Grant et al. (2015). ""Epidemiology of DSM-5 Alcohol Use Disorder: Results From the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions III."" JAMA Psychiatry.Understanding alcohol use disorders and their treatment; American Psychological Association.Fact Sheets — Alcohol Use and Your Health; CDC.Last Updated: 9/13/2016 NEXT Treatment"
13,"2018-04-18 03:51:18",Allergies,
14,"2018-04-18 03:51:18","Alternative Health",
15,"2018-04-18 03:51:18","Alzheimer's Disease",
16,"2018-04-18 03:59:05",Amenorrhea,"What Is Amenorrhea?By Lindsey KonkelMedically Reviewed by Robert Jasmer, MDFind out about what causes amenorrhea, and how it can be treated. Amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual bleeding in a woman of reproductive age.There are two main types of amenorrhea:Primary amenorrhea This is when a girl over age 15 has never had her period.Secondary amenorrhea This is when a woman who has had regular periods stops having her period for six months or longer.What Causes Amenorrhea?Natural changes in the body can cause your periods to stop.For instance, women stop menstruating during pregnancy and breastfeeding.There are many potential causes and risk factors for amenorrhea. Sometimes the cause is unknown.Causes and risk factors for amenorrhea include:ObesityHaving very low body fat (less than 15 to 17 percent body fat)Deficiency of leptin, a hormone that regulates appetitePolycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)Overactive thyroid glandExtreme emotional stressExcessive exerciseUse of some contraceptives (it can take several months for periods to start again after stopping certain forms of birth control)Certain medications (certain antidepressants and blood pressure medicines can increase levels of a hormone that prevents ovulation)Chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancerNoncancerous pituitary tumorScar tissue in the uterus (uterine fibroids, a cesarean section, or certain abortion procedures can scar the uterus)Other causes of hormonal problems that may lead to amenorrhea include:Long-term illness, such as heart disease or cystic fibrosisGenetic defects or disordersProblems with the ovariesAmenorrhea SymptomsThe major symptom of amenorrhea is the absence of periods.You may experience additional symptoms depending on the cause of your amenorrhea.Other symptoms may include: Weight gain or weight lossChanges in breast size, or milky discharge from the breastAcneHair lossIncreased facial hair growthHeadaches or vision changesPelvic painAmenorrhea DiagnosisThere are a number of steps your doctor will take to determine whether you have amenorrhea.First, your doctor will ask you about your symptoms to get a better picture of your medical history.Your doctor may also perform a pelvic exam and do a pregnancy test to rule out the possibility of pregnancy.Tests for amenorrhea may include:Blood tests to check your hormone levelsGenetic testingPelvic ultrasoundComputed tomography (CT) scanMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Amenorrhea TreatmentThe treatment your doctor recommends will depend on the cause of your amenorrhea.Treatments for amenorrhea may include medications, surgery, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these measures.Lifestyle changes may include:Taking steps to reach a healthy weight and maintain that weight (if you're under- or overweight)Interventions to reduce stressIf you're an athlete, modifying the way you train or eatMedical treatments for amenorrhea may include: Hormonal medications, such as birth control pillsEstrogen replacement therapyMedications for PCOSSurgical treatments for amenorrhea may include:Removal of scar tissue in the uterusRemoval of noncancerous pituitary tumorSourcesWhat causes amenorrhea? Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.What are the treatments for amenorrhea? Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.Amenorrhea — primary; MedlinePlus.Secondary amenorrhea; MedlinePlus.Last Updated: 9/13/2016"
17,"2018-04-18 03:59:14","Amino Acids","What Are Amino Acids?By Cathy CassataMedically Reviewed by Sanjai Sinha, MDCalled the ""building blocks of life,"" amino acids can be obtained in healthy amounts by eating foods that contain them. Amino acids are compounds that combine to form proteins.Naturally found in our bodies, they're often referred to as the ""building blocks of life.""Amino acids are needed for the production of enzymes, as well as some hormones and neurotransmitters.They're also involved in numerous metabolic pathways within cells throughout the body.You can obtain amino acids through the foods you eat.After your body digests and breaks down protein, amino acids are left in the body to help do the following:Break down foodGrow and repair body tissueProvide a source of energyPerform other bodily functionsTypes of Amino AcidsAmino acids can be placed in three different groups:Nonessential amino acids: These are produced naturally by your body and have nothing to do with the food you eat.The following are examples of nonessential amino acids:AlanineAsparagineAspartic acidGlutamic acidEssential amino acids: These can't be produced by the body and must come from the food you eat.If you don't eat foods that contain essential amino acids, your body won't have them. The following are essential amino acids:HistidineIsoleucineLeucineLysineMethioninePhenylalanineThreonineTryptophanValine It isn't necessary to eat essential amino acids at every meal. You can get healthy amounts by eating foods containing them throughout the day.Animal-based foods such as meat, milk, fish, and eggs provide essential amino acids.Plant-based foods such as soy, beans, nuts, and grains also contain essential amino acids.Over the years, there has been controversy about whether vegetarian diets can provide adequate amounts of essential amino acids.Many experts believe that while it may be harder for vegetarians to maintain an adequate intake, they should be able to do so if they follow the American Heart Association's guidelines of 5 to 6 servings of whole grains, and 5 or more servings of vegetables and fruits, per day.Conditional amino acids: These are usually not essential to everyday living but are important when you're sick, injured, or stressed.Conditional amino acids include:ArginineCysteineGlutamineTyrosineGlycineOrnithineProlineSerineWhen you're ill or injured, your body may not be able to produce enough conditional amino acids, and you may need to give your body what it needs through diet or supplements.Talk with your doctor about the safest way to do this.Can Amino Acids Be Harmful?When your body has too much of amino acids, the following effects can occur: Gastrointestinal distress, such as bloatingAbdominal painDiarrheaIncreased risk of gout (buildup of uric acid in the body, leading to joint inflammation)Unhealthy drop in blood pressureChanges in eating patternsNeed for your kidneys to work harder to maintain balanceMost diets provide safe amounts of amino acids.Still, talk with your doctor if you plan to follow a diet that's very high in protein or one that includes amino acid supplements for any reason — including any supplements taken to support intense athletic training.SourcesAmino acids; MedlinePlus.Protein in diet; MedlinePlus.J. McDougall (2002). ""Plant Foods Have a Complete Amino Acid Composition."" Circulation.Last Updated: 2/2/2016"
18,"2018-04-18 03:51:18",Aminoglycosides,
19,"2018-04-18 03:51:18",Analgesic,
20,"2018-04-18 03:51:18",Anaphylaxis,