Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) refers to the formation of a blood clot (thrombus) within a deep vein, usually in the leg (thigh or calf). Once the blood clot forms, it can partially or completely block blood flow through the vein. A clot can become life-threatening if it dislodges and travels to the heart and lungs, … Read more
Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by very high moods (manic or hypomanic episodes) and depression. There are several types of bipolar disorder. Manic and hypomania (a less severe form of mania) include the following symptoms: Depressive episodes, on the other hand, affect day-to-day activities: Bipolar disorder is a life-long mental illness and … Read more
Pancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. It occurs when enzymes in the pancreas start digesting their own tissue, known as autodigestion. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, with pancreatitis being acute or chronic. Acute pancreatitis will cause severe abdominal pain and tenderness, along with abdominal distention, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Chronic pancreatitis may also … Read more
Obesity is excessive body fat that presents a health risk. A body mass index (BMI) over 30 is considered obese. Obesity is a growing problem in nearly every country in the world. Obesity has two main causes: increased intake of foods high in fat and sugar and a decrease in physical activity. As people continue … Read more
Liver cirrhosis is the scarring of the liver from liver diseases. The advancement of liver disease to cirrhosis is irreversible. The most common causes include: The liver plays vital roles in the body including metabolism, detoxification, digestion, storage of vitamins and minerals, production of clotting factors, and more. Complications include edema and ascites, enlargement of … Read more
Depression is a mood disorder characterized by intense and persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest or enjoyment in things once loved. Major depressive disorder affects how you think and feel and can cause severe emotional symptoms and even thoughts that life isn’t worth living anymore. Major depression can affect not only the … Read more
Breast cancer can affect one or both breasts and is usually found through an exam or mammogram and then diagnosed through a biopsy to determine if cells are malignant. The stage of the breast cancer determines the prognosis and treatment options. Breast cancer stages range from 0 to IV. Stage IV breast cancer means it … Read more
Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen. The appendix has shown to have benefits in infants but the function in adults is largely unknown. Research suggests the appendix may help regulate intestinal bacteria. If the appendix becomes blocked it … Read more
Fractures are broken bones. Fractures can occur from trauma such as motor vehicle accidents, age-related conditions like osteoporosis, or from overuse such as stress fractures in athletes. There are also different kinds of fractures. Here are some examples: The Nursing Process Nurses may care for patients with fractures in many settings such as emergency departments, … Read more
Seizures occur when there is an uncontrolled burst of electrical activity in the brain that results in abnormalities in muscle control, sensations, and consciousness. Seizures can occur due to an array of conditions such as high fever, alcohol withdrawal, hyperglycemia/hypoglycemia, or brain tumors. These are one-time occurrences related to a specific cause. Epilepsy is diagnosed … Read more