What is tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency? Tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency is a rare disorder that increases the levels of several substances, including phenylalanine, in the blood. Phenylalanine is a building block of proteins (an amino acid) that is obtained through the diet. It is found in all proteins and in some artificial sweeteners. If tetrahydrobiopterin deficiency is not treated, …
Read More »Heart Disease: Get Facts About How a Sick Heart Functions
Vascular disease includes any condition that affects the circulatory system. As the heart beats, it pumps blood through a system of blood vessels called the circulatory system. The vessels are elastic tubes that carry blood to every part of the body. Arteries carry blood away from the heart while veins return it. Vascular disease ranges from diseases of your arteries, …
Read More »Myocardial Biopsy: Read About the Procedure
Myocardial Biopsy Introduction A heart biopsy, also called myocardial biopsy or cardiac biopsy, is an invasive procedure to detect heart disease that involves using a bioptome (a small catheter with a grasping device on the end) to obtain a small piece of heart muscle tissue that is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Why Do I Need a Myocardial Biopsy? …
Read More »Pendred Syndrome: Get the Facts on This Genetic Disease
What is Pendred syndrome? Pendred syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes early hearing loss in children. It also can affect the thyroid gland and sometimes may affect a person’s balance. The syndrome is named after Vaughan Pendred, the physician who first described individuals with the disorder. Children who are born with Pendred syndrome may begin to lose their hearing …
Read More »Rothmund-Thomson Syndrome: Get Facts About Treatment
What is Rothmund-Thomson syndrome (RTS)? Rothmund-Thomson syndrome is a rare condition that affects many parts of the body, particularly the skin. What are the signs and symptoms of Rothmund-Thomson syndrome? Share Your Story People with this condition typically develop redness on the cheeks between ages 3 months and 6 months. Over time the rash spreads to the arms and legs, …
Read More »Dental Medications: Get Facts on Pain Pills and Antibiotics
Your dentist may prescribe medications to fight certain oral diseases or to prevent infections after surgical procedures such as tooth extractions and gum surgery. Sometimes certain drugs are given prior to the dental procedure to help fight infections or to control existing medical conditions such as heart murmurs and valve problems. Your dentist will discuss any medications you may need …
Read More »Problems With Dental Fillings: Get Facts Symptoms and Pain
Introduction Tooth sensitivity following placement of a filling is fairly common. A tooth may be sensitive to pressure, air, sweet foods, or temperature. Usually, the sensitivity resolves on its own within a few weeks. During this time, avoid those things that are causing the sensitivity. Pain relievers are generally not required. Contact your dentist if the sensitivity does not subside …
Read More »Mouth Guards: Get Information on Different Types
Mouth guards are coverings worn over teeth, and often used to protect teeth from injury from teeth grinding and during sports. There are three types of mouth guards: Stock mouth protectors are preformed and come ready to wear. They are inexpensive and can be bought at most sporting good stores and department stores. However, little can be done to adjust …
Read More »Preventive Mastectomy: Get the Facts on the Procedure
Preventive mastectomy facts *Preventive mastectomy facts medical author: Charles Patrick Davis MD Preventive mastectomy is the surgical removal of breast tissue or the entire breast to reduce or prevent breast cancer; both breasts may undergo surgery. Women may choose preventive mastectomy if they are high risk for breast cancer. Previous breast cancer; strong family history; BRAC1 or BRAC2 genes; lobar …
Read More »Oral Health Problems in Children: Common Issues
There are a number of problems that affect the oral health of children, including tooth decay, thumb sucking, tongue thrusting, lip sucking, and early tooth loss. Even though baby teeth are eventually replaced with permanent teeth, keeping baby teeth healthy is important to a child's overall health and well-being. Baby bottle tooth decay Share Your Story Baby bottle tooth decay …
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