Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication of diabetes that results in a very high glucose level. It typically occurs in those with type 1 diabetes but can also develop in patients with type 2 diabetes. When the body doesn’t have enough insulin to allow glucose into the cells for energy, fats … Read more
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. 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 … 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 (anhedonia). The clinical diagnosis per the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) is Major depressive disorder (MDD) and includes feelings of worthlessness, a lack of energy, decreased … Read more
Breast cancer can affect one or both breasts and is usually found through a mammogram, and then diagnosed through a biopsy to determine if the cells are malignant. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and may rarely occur in males. Types of Breast Cancer There are many types of breast cancer. Identifying … 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 or falls, age-related conditions like osteoporosis, or overuse such as stress fractures in athletes. Types of Fractures Fractures are classified in several ways and may include the following: Fractures can also be classified by the pattern of break, such as: Fracture … Read more