While not fully understood, the main causes of PCOS include certain hormonal disturbances, genetic tendencies, and poor lifestyle habits. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that affects about 1 in 10 women of their reproductive (childbearing) age. What exactly causes PCOS is not well understood; however, certain hormonal disturbances, genetic tendencies, and poor …

In stage 3b kidney disease, eGFR is between 30-44 mL/min. Symptoms may include back pain, abnormal urination, hypertension, and anemia Kidney health is estimated through glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which is the rate at which fluid is filtered through the kidneys. Lower GFR numbers indicate decreased kidney function. Stage 3 kidney disease is separated into two stages: Stage 3a: eGFR …

The 4 types of episiotomy include mediolateral, median, lateral, and J-shaped. An episiotomy is a surgical procedure that involves making a small incision in the perineum (the area between the vaginal opening and anus) to widen the opening of the vagina while giving birth. It is done to help with the delivery of the baby or to avoid extensive vaginal …

Ventricular tachycardia may last only for a few seconds but can also last for minutes at a time, in which case it can be life-threatening Ventricular tachycardia is a heart rhythm disorder that is caused by abnormal electrical signals in the lower chambers of the heart.  Also called VT or V-tach, ventricular tachycardia may last only for a few seconds …

Boric acid has mild to moderate antiseptic, antifungal, and antiviral properties, meaning that it may help treat vaginal infections Boric acid has mild to moderate antiseptic, antifungal, and antiviral properties, meaning that it may help treat vaginal infections. A healthy vagina has a pH of about 4. Yeast infections or vaginal diseases such as vaginosis can change the pH of …

During pregnancy, there is a small increase in MCV or mean corpuscular volume, which measures the size of an average red blood cell.  Pregnancy brings about changes in the body that nurture fetal growth and prepare the mother for labor and delivery. Changes may include: hormonal changes, weight gain, and increase in total blood volume including a small increase in …

The integumentary system is made up of organs and structures that protect the inside of the body from environmental elements. The 5 parts of the integumentary system include: Skin Hair Nails Glands Nerves Skin The skin is the largest organ of the body, functioning as a protective barrier for the entire body. It is made up of three layers: Epidermis: Outer …

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by distressing and repetitive thoughts (obsession) that often compels a person to perform a repetitive action or behavior (compulsion).  Symptoms of OCD vary from person to person, and doctors usually categorize them into specific groups. 5 main symptoms of OCD 1. Symmetry OCD symptoms OCD often presents with an urge to keep everything in order, …

In the animal kingdom, there are three types of skeletons: Hydroskeletons (a flexible skeleton supported by fluid pressure) Exoskeletons (outer shell) Endoskeletons (support structure inside the body) Humans have endoskeletons, which  may be subclassified as axial (the spine and pelvis) and appendicular (limb) types. What is an endoskeleton? An endoskeleton is a rigid internal framework that is a part of …

Butterfly pea flowers can be eaten raw, as well as brewed into an herbal tea.  Aside from being beautiful, butterfly pea flowers also have several health benefits. What are butterfly pea flowers? Butterfly pea flower, scientifically called Clitoria ternatea, is an ornamental plant native to Asia, Southern and Eastern Africa, and Madagascar. The deep blue to purple color of these …