Lymph node Removal

Swollen or affected lymph nodes may sometimes need to be removed for examination. This is called lymph node biopsy. Lymph node biopsy A biopsy involves removal of whole or part of the lymph node to look under the microscope for signs of infection, or cancer. Lymph nodes are filters located at intervals between the lymph

Voice Changes and Pregnancy

Throughout pregnancy, rises in the levels of estrogen and progesterone cause changes in many parts of a woman’s body, including changes that affect the voice. Examples of changes that affect the voice include the following: Postural changes Swollen vocal cords Altered range of voice Increased likelihood of acid reflux More fragile blood vessels in the

Optic Disc Swelling: Overview

The optic disc is the round spot on the retina formed by the passage of the axons of the retinal ganglion cells, which transfer signals from the photoreceptors of the eye to the optic nerve, allowing us to see. Tefi | Shutterstock The optic disc, also known as the optic nerve head, forms a slightly

What is Homeopathy?

Homeopathy is a branch of alternative medicine that was first developed and described by German physician Samuel Hahnemann in 1796. The basic principle of this form of alternative medicine is based on the idea that “like cures like.” Homeopathy practitioners believe that a substance that triggers a certain illness can also be used to treat

ADHD Treatment

There is no cure for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Therapy aims to reduce the symptoms to allow for normal learning and growth of the child. Basic tenets of therapy include medication and counselling. Other parts of therapy include accommodating the child in regular classrooms and providing family and community support. Types of ADHD Medication

Addison's Disease in Animals

Addison’s disease is seen in humans but has been seen in some breeds of dogs and cats as well. This condition is relatively uncommon in dogs and is considered rare in cats. Female dogs that are young to middle-aged are more likely to present with this uncommon condition. However all ages, both genders of dogs

Addison's Disease in Animals

Addison’s disease is seen in humans but has been seen in some breeds of dogs and cats as well. This condition is relatively uncommon in dogs and is considered rare in cats. Female dogs that are young to middle-aged are more likely to present with this uncommon condition. However all ages, both genders of dogs

Dwarfism Characteristics

The condition dwarfism or restricted growth is typically characterized by short stature, with an adult height of less than 4 feet 10 inches (147 cm). Over 200 different disorders exist that can cause restricted growth and aside form short stature, symptoms vary considerably depending on the cause of the condition. Generally these disorders can be divided into

What is Psychogenic Pain?

Psychogenic pain not an official diagnostic term, but is used to describe pain that may be attributed to psychological factors. These factors may include certain beliefs, fears, memories or emotions that lead to the initiation or worsening of pain. In the past, the term was often used to describe pain without a clear diagnosis or

What is Pediatric Dentistry?

Pediatric dentistry is a branch of dentistry that deals with the examination and management of dental health in children. Dental procedures are generally perceived as intimidating and painful experiences that most would like to avoid, especially among children. However, it is vital that children have their milk teeth checked regularly by pediatric dentists for evidence

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease – What is GERD?

GERD stands for Gastro-esophageal reflux disease or “acid reflux” and is a common condition when the acid produced in the stomach leaks out and seeps back into the esophagus or food pipe. The esophagus is a muscular tube than runs from the mouth to the stomach. The seepage of the stomach’s acid into the esophagus

Gastro-esophageal reflux disease – What is GERD?

GERD stands for Gastro-esophageal reflux disease or “acid reflux” and is a common condition when the acid produced in the stomach leaks out and seeps back into the esophagus or food pipe. The esophagus is a muscular tube than runs from the mouth to the stomach. The seepage of the stomach’s acid into the esophagus

What are piles?

Piles are called Haemorrhoids in medical terminology. They are swellings within the rectum or around the anus that consist of enlarged and swollen blood vessels. Piles in majority of cases are mild and most people are unaware of their existence. Severe cases however may manifest as bleeding bright red blood after passing stools, downward movement

Spirometry Indications and Contraindications

Spirometry is a type of pulmonary function test that is used to measure and evaluate the function of the lungs for a variety of purposes. It is indicated in a variety of situation but is not recommended for others, as outlined in more detail below. Indications for Spirometry Spirometry is commonly used to detect and

Urea Cycle Disorder Treatments

The treatment of disorders related to the urea cycle is a lifelong process aimed at managing symptoms and doesn't cure the disorder. Strategies include monitoring ammonia levels using blood tests – serum and plasma levels – at regular intervals and using the results to optimize treatment methods. Dietary management is key to restricting the level

Zika transmission

Recent outbreaks of the Zika virus, a disease causing fever, headaches, a rash, joint pain, conjunctivitis and muscle pain in 20% of the people who become infected, are shedding more light on how the disease is transmitted. The disease has become more visible due to large outbreaks of the infection in South America. Healthcare providers

Types of Urodynamic Test

Urodynamic tests are used to examine the function of the bladder, sphincters and urethra to store and release urine. There are various types of tests that may be needed, depending on the specific case at hand. These include simple observation tests, as well as complex examinations with specialized equipment. Uroflowmetry Uroflowmetry measures the rate and

Fibromyalgia with Immune System Dysfunctions

Fibromyalgia is closely associated with widespread pain, disturbance of function, fatigue, depression, irritable bowel syndrome, migraine headaches etc. The exact cause of the condition, however, is not yet known. There are several studies and hypotheses that point towards immune system abnormalities especially autoimmunity as cause of fibromyalgia. What is autoimmunity? Autoimmunity is the term used

Punch Biopsy (Skin)

A punch biopsy is a type of skin biopsy. It is a diagnostic procedure that punches a hole in the skin to acquire tissue for laboratory examination, usually through microscopy or tissue culture. Skin biopsies, compared with biopsies of other organs, are relatively low-risk procedures that are conducted under local anesthesia, with very few associated