Women in the United States with human immunodeficiency virus, or HIV, should not breastfeed. But what about those with other sexually transmitted infections, like herpes? The answer is a little more complex than a simple “yes” or “no.” Let’s take a closer look at herpes and whether this infection is a contraindication to breastfeeding. What Is Herpes? Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection known medically as herpes simplex virus, or HSV....
Cauda equina syndrome (CES) is a rare but serious condition that occurs when nerve roots in the lower spinal cord are squeezed or compressed, disrupting motor and sensory function to the bladder and lower extremities. This cluster of nerves roots, called the cauda equina (Latin for “horse’s tail”), sends and receives messages to the legs, bladder, and other parts of the body. CES can occur when a ruptured or herniated lumbar disc exerts intense pressure on the cauda equina....
One in four U.S. adults is now fully vaccinated against COVID-19, inching the nation closer to reaching herd immunity. Now, experts are looking to see how the vaccines are holding up in real-world settings outside of clinical trials. Key Takeaways A new CDC study found that the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines prevented COVID-19 transmission among healthcare personnel, essential workers, and first responders. The results revealed that two weeks after the second dose of the vaccine, participants’ risk of infection was reduced by 90%....
Diaper rash is redness or irritation that develops on the genitals, buttocks, or thighs. It’s the most common skin condition that affects infants, occurring in about half of all babies. Diaper rash can affect anyone who wears a diaper, but babies between 9 months and 12 months old are most at risk for developing the skin condition. Diaper rash is usually easy to treat. This article discusses the symptoms and causes of diaper rash and various treatment options....
Do you know the difference between a naturopath and a naturopathic doctor? If you have an interest in complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) approaches to health or medical treatment, and you live in the right location, you may have access to both. Knowing what these titles and their underlying credentials mean will help you make smart decisions about whether or not these providers can help you. Naturopathic Physician or Doctor Naturopathic doctors or naturopathic medical doctors earn ND or NMD degrees from a naturopathic medical school....
Tommie Copper manufactures copper-infused compression clothing and other items, including shirts, leggings, shorts, sleeves, and socks. The company says its products help relieve pain and swelling, as well as aid in muscle recovery, among other things. Do Tommie Copper products work? They might. But this is due to the compression, not the copper. This article looks at the company’s claims about its compression clothing, medical research behind copper and compression, and what you should consider before buying Tommie Copper items....
According to a new study, being a regular walnut eater might lower your risk of heart disease and help you live longer. The results were published in the journal Nutrients. Key Takeaways A large observational study using data that was collected over 20 years showed that eating more walnuts is linked to a reduced risk of early death.The benefits of eating walnuts were even observed in people who followed “suboptimal” diets, though the people who ate an “optimal” diet experienced more benefits....
The cornea is the transparent, dome-like structure on the front part of the eye. The cornea gives the eye focus and refracting power. Function The cornea functions like a camera lens, helping to focus light coming into the eye onto the retina. The cornea is also filled with nerves that alert us to irritations that could potentially harm our vision and eye health. What Is It Made Of? The cornea is a remarkable piece of tissue made up of specialized cells....
Hospice volunteers are an essential part of a well-run hospice program—so essential, in fact, that hospice agencies receiving Medicare or Medicaid funding have to prove that at least 5% of hospice work is being done by volunteers in order to be paid. Hospice volunteers may do a number of important tasks that range from assisting in office work to staying vigil at a dying patient’s bedside. Training Hospice volunteers find themselves privy to confidential patient information and are involved with patients and their loved ones during a most personal and vulnerable time in their lives....
Most people have heard of obstructive sleep apnea, but that may not mean that they fully understand it. There are a lot of misconceptions about the condition, and these can prevent people from getting the proper diagnosis and treatment. Without treatment, sleep apnea may lead to important consequences. Learn about 5 unexpected insights relating to sleep apnea that might leave you saying “Duh!” 1. Sleep Apnea May Have Unexpected Symptoms Any observer can easily spot someone with severe sleep apnea: loud snoring is interrupted by relative periods of quiet, as the upper airway collapses, which is ultimately punctuated by gasping or choking and sleep fragmentation....
Since a diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), is it true that sex isn’t what it used to be? It’s not uncommon for adults with IBD to experience a change in their sex drive. This side effect can be frustrating for both the person with IBD and for their partner. The good news is that there are ways to cope with this problem. With some patience, couples can work towards having the intimate moments that they want....
A new Medical Marijuana Research Law is making it easier for researchers to study cannabis. The law is expected to expedite study approvals for scientists and allow for higher-potency cannabis in clinical trials. Key Takeaways A new law is making it easier for researchers to study cannabis.Researchers previously faced barriers like lengthy study approval procedures and inadequate supply of high-potency products.Experts hope new research on the medical use of cannabis might convince authorities to remove the drug from Schedule I designation....
Phytic acid is a natural antioxidant that is mainly found in grains, nuts, and seeds. Foods high in phytic acid include cereals, legumes, and certain vegetables. Phytic acid is considered an antinutrient because it impairs mineral absorption. More recently, studies have shown health benefits, as well, such as prevention and treatment of some conditions, including cancer. People who have existing mineral deficiency should be mindful of the amount of phytic acid-containing foods they eat, and may want to consult with a dietitian or healthcare provider....
Many individuals include red meat in their diet and others avoid it altogether. While red meat—which includes veal, pork, lamb, beef, or goat meat—does have health benefits, some studies have shown that consuming red meat may increase your risk of certain cancers such as colon, prostate, and pancreatic. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), part of the World Health Organization (WHO), has conducted reports that suggest the consumption of red meat may be carcinogenic to humans....
Depakote is an anticonvulsant medication used to treat seizure disorders and treat manic episodes in bipolar disorder. It’s also considered a “level A” or “effective” medication for preventing migraines, according to the 2012 American Headache Society and American Academy of Neurology treatment guidelines for the prevention of episodic migraines. What Are the Side Effects of Depakote? Some common side effects of Depakote include gastrointestinal symptoms, like abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation, and an increase or decrease in appetite....
Sodium is an essential mineral found in many common foods. It’s a natural component of some foods and sometimes it’s added as salt during cooking or manufacturing—for flavor or as a preservative. Sodium plays an important role in cell function, blood pressure control, muscle contraction, and nerve transmission. It’s essential for keeping body fluids balanced. Although sodium is important for optimal health, consuming too much has been linked to health problems including hypertension (high blood pressure), cardiovascular disease, and kidney stones....
When you are diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, the report of the biopsy may indicate the type of Hodgkin lymphoma that has occurred. There are five main types of Hodgkin lymphoma. They differ in whom it affects, the parts of the body more likely to be affected, and in what stage it is diagnosed. Does the Treatment of Hodgkin Lymphoma Depend on the Type of Disease? Usually, the exact type will not change the treatment options....
There are several different classes of drugs used to treat nasal allergy symptoms. The most common include antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays, and antileukotrienes such as Singulair (montelukast). Each of these medications has a different mechanism of action. Some may be used to treat acute symptoms, while others provide longer-lasting relief. The choice depends largely on the types of symptoms you have, their frequency, and their severity. Steroid Nasal Sprays Nasal sprays are most effective for treating symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay fever)....
Measuring CD4 T-cells is important in helping healthcare providers determine the stage and likely outcome of HIV infection. While they are no longer used to determine when HIV therapy should be started—therapy should always be started at the time diagnosis—they can provide practitioners a clear idea of how the person is and what can be done to improve their long-term health. Understanding CD4 and CD8 T-Cells To begin, lymphocytes are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight infection....
While fevers can be concerning for parents, an elevated temperature is not always a fever. Although 98.6 F (37.0 C) has long been the standard definition of a normal body temperature, that doesn’t mean that any number above 98.6 F is a sign of trouble. Normal temperatures can range from 97.2 F (36.2 C) to 99.5 F (37.5 C) insofar as adults are concerned. Children, especially younger children, can have slightly higher normal temperatures....
