Sign Language: Get Facts on American Sign Language

What is American Sign Language? American Sign Language (ASL) is a complete, complex language that employs signs made with the hands and other movements, including facial expressions and postures of the body. It is the first language of many deaf North Americans, and one of several communication options available to deaf people. ASL is said …

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Urine Blockage in Newborns: Read About Surgery and More

The urinary tract consists of two kidneys, which filter waste materials and excess water from the blood two ureters, which carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder the bladder, where urine is stored until it is released the urethra, where urine flows out of the body Normal urinary tract We rely on our kidneys and urinary system to keep …

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Masturbation: Get the Facts

Introduction to Masturbation Masturbation is the self-stimulation of the genitals to achieve sexual arousal and pleasure, usually to the point of orgasm (sexual climax). It is commonly done by touching, stroking, or massaging the penis or clitoris until an orgasm is achieved. Some women also use stimulation of the vagina to masturbate or use “sex toys,” such as a vibrator. …

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Kleine-Levin Syndrome: Get Facts on Symptoms and Causes

What is Kleine-Levin syndrome? Kleine-Levin syndrome is a rare disorder that primarily affects adolescent males (approximately 70 percent of those with Kleine-Levin syndrome are male). What are the symptoms of Kleine-Levin syndrome? Readers Comments 1 Share Your Story It is characterized by recurring but reversible periods of excessive sleep (up to 20 hours per day). Symptoms occur as "episodes," typically …

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Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) and Parkinson’s Disease

Introduction to Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Progressive supranuclear palsy, or PSP, is a rare neurodegenerative disease that is often misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s disease because it carries similar symptoms. Because of its rarity, PSP is mostly unknown by the general public. What Causes PSP? PSP develops because of the deterioration of brain cells in a few small, but very important areas at …

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Parkinson’s Disease: Information About Clinical Trials

Introduction to Clinical Trials for Parkinson’s Disease You may have heard about clinical trials from your doctor, read or heard advertisements in the newspaper or on the radio, or found out about trials in your area through a support group or association. Before you decide to participate in a trial, you should be aware of the potential benefits and risks. …

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Parkinson’s Disease and Eating Right: Tips to Stay Healthy

Introduction to eating right with Parkinson’s disease While there is no special diet required for people with Parkinson’s disease, eating a well-balanced, nutritious diet is extremely beneficial. With the proper diet, our bodies work more efficiently, we have more energy, and Parkinson’s disease medications will work properly. This article addresses the basics of good nutrition. Please consult your doctor or …

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Sexual Problems in Women: Get Facts About Causes

What Causes Sexual Problems? Sexual dysfunction can be a result of a physical or psychological problem. Physical causes: Many physical and/or medical conditions can cause sexual problems. These conditions include diabetes, heart disease, neurological diseases, hormonal imbalances, menopause, chronic diseases such as kidney disease or liver failure, and alcoholism and drug abuse. In addition, the side effects of certain medications, …

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Smoking and Heart Disease: Get Facts and Statistics

Smoking and Heart Disease Introduction Most people associate cigarette smoking with breathing problems and lung cancer. But did you know that smoking is also a major cause of heart disease for men and women? About 20% of all deaths from heart disease in the U.S. are directly related to cigarette smoking. That’s because smoking is a major cause of coronary …

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Periodic Limb Movement Disorder: Read About Medication

Introduction to PLMD Readers Comments 4 Share Your Story Periodic limb movement disorder (PLMD) is a sleep disorder characterized by rhythmic movements of the limbs during sleep. The movements typically involve the legs, but upper extremity movements may also occur. Movements occur periodically throughout the night and can fluctuate in severity from one night to the next. They tend to …

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