Facts you should know about sepsis (blood poisoning) Preventing infections and early diagnosis and treatment are the best ways to prevent sepsis. Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening medical condition that's associated with an infection. Blood poisoning is a nonmedical term that usually refers to the medical condition known as sepsis. There are three described clinical …

Facts you should know about necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating bacteria) Picture of necrotizing fasciitis (flesh-eating disease) in the lower leg Necrotizing fasciitis refers to a rapidly spreading infection, usually located in fascial planes of connective tissue that results in tissue death (necrosis). Different types of bacterial infection can cause necrotizing fasciitis. The majority of cases begin with an existing infection, most …

Can your cholesterol be too low? While less common, low cholesterol can affect your health Most of us associate cholesterol problems with high cholesterol, which we know can cause high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. But is it possible for your cholesterol to be too low? Yes. While less common, low cholesterol can affect your health as well. Cholesterol …

Penile erection is a complex process in which the brain, nerves, muscles and blood vessels play a major role. The main causes of erectile dysfunction include psychological and health conditions, medications, trauma and lifestyle factors. Penile erection is a complex process in which the brain, nerves, muscles and blood vessels play a major role. In addition, hormones and emotions are …

Kidney failure symptoms can be difficult to detect in early stages. Learn about the five stages of kidney failure Kidney failure, also called renal failure or end-stage kidney disease, occurs when at least 85% of kidney function has been lost.  When your kidneys fail, it causes waste products to build up in the body, which can lead to chemical imbalances …

Learn about what causes acanthosis nigricans, how it’s treated, and how you can naturally lighten dark skin patches at home Acanthosis nigricans is a skin disorder characterized by dark patches of skin that have a thick, velvety texture. Patches are usually seen in the folds of the body, such as the armpits, groin, neck, elbows, knees, knuckles, lips, palms, and …

If you have kidney failure, you need to be even more careful about your diet. Learn about what foods to avoid with kidney disease Your kidneys play a crucial role in your body, eliminating excess water and salt along with waste products and toxins from your blood. They also balance your electrolyte levels, regulate blood pressure, and strengthen your bones. …

Facts you should know about smallpox Smallpox was the first disease to be eliminated from the world through public health efforts and vaccination. Smallpox is a contagious disease caused by the variola virus. Smallpox was the first disease to be eliminated from the world through public health efforts and vaccination. Smallpox still poses a threat because people could use existing …

Facts you should know about early pregnancy symptoms and signs Readers Comments 16 Share Your Story Nausea may be an early sign that you are pregnant. Not all moms-to-be experience the same symptoms when pregnant, and symptoms vary in severity. A woman will not necessarily experience the same symptoms in the same way in subsequent pregnancies as with her first …

Facts you should know about a pneumothorax (collapsed lung) Picture of pneumothorax (collapsed lung) A pneumothorax is a collection of free air in the chest cavity (thoracic cavity) that causes the lung to collapse. Pneumothorax may occur on its own in the absence of underlying disease; this is termed spontaneous pneumothorax. Pneumothorax may also occur because of an injury or …