What is the body mass index (BMI)? Body mass index (BMI) is an approximate measure of obesity. Body mass index (BMI) is a person’s weight in kilograms divided by the square of the body’s height in meters. It indicates whether the weight is appropriate for the person’s height. Another way to calculate BMI is to …

High blood pressure occurs due to the tightening or stiffness of very small arteries High blood pressure or hypertension affects around 80 million Americans. Hypertension is also known as “the silent killer” because it often goes unnoticed and may cause serious complications such as kidney diseases, heart diseases, heart failure, and stroke. As many as 16 million Americans are unaware …

Normal blood pressure is when the pressure is less than or up to 120/80 mmHg Normal blood pressure is when the pressure is less than or up to 120/80 mmHg. The value 120 denotes the systolic pressure, and the value 80 denotes the diastolic pressure.  Any measurement above this value needs doctor consultation. Maintaining the blood pressure in the normal …

Untreated syphilis can lead to permanent damage Untreated syphilis can lead to permanent damage to multiple body systems such as the brain, heart, and eyes and result in life-threatening complications. Syphilis can be cured completely in the initial stages with antibiotics (Penicillin). Timely treatment can help prevent complications. There is no treatment available to repair or reverse damage that has already …

Some benefits of quit smoking such as the normalization of blood pressure and tissue oxygenation are seen almost immediately, cancer and other diseases can take years to lower. Smoking is a harmful habit that can lead to severe health complications and death. Quitting smoking and overcoming tobacco cravings require determination, self-discipline, and support. When a person quits smoking, the cycle …

Potassium is an essential micro-mineral in the body. Potassium is an essential micro-mineral in the body. The potassium ions present in blood control nerve function and heart rate. 98 percent of the potassium in the body is found inside the cells. Appropriate potassium intake (100 milligrams per day) is required for healthy functioning of the body systems. Potassium rich diet …

What does gastritis feel like? Gastritis causes abdominal pain, nausea and other symptoms. Usually, individuals with gastritis complain of episodes of gnawing, piercing pain in the stomach. This pain may either worsen or get better when eating or vomiting. People with gastritis may have uncomfortable feelings in their upper stomach just below the breastbone and above the belly button. Apart …

What are thyroid problems? Thyroid problems manifest with different symptoms depending on the underlying cause. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located at the anterior (front) aspect of the neck. Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, body temperature, heartbeat and the digestive system. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland is unable to produce sufficient levels of thyroid hormones. Hyperthyroidism occurs when …

What are the common causes of high cholesterol? Factors that may increase bad cholesterol in the body Below are few common factors that may increase bad cholesterol in the body: Hereditary: Cholesterol or heart diseases may run in the family and is usually inherited. Comorbid diseases: Diabetes, liver diseases, and kidney and thyroid diseases Smoking cigarettes or passive smoking: Cigarette …

What are the symptoms of hypertension? Many people do not experience any symptoms with high blood pressure. Most people with high blood pressure have no signs or symptoms, even if blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels. In some patients, the following symptoms may be seen Severe headaches Fatigue   Confusion Dizziness Sweating Chest pain Vision problems Apart from the common symptoms above, …