What is usually the first sign of HIV? The signs and symptoms of HIV may first appear within two to four weeks of infection. The initial presentation of an HIV infection is a flu-like illness which includes: Fever Body ache Sore throat Headache Rash Swollen lymph nodes: Lymph nodes are a part of the body’s …
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What is asthma? There is no cure for asthma, however, asthma symptoms can be managed by lifestyle modifications and treatment. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways (bronchi). Bronchi generally allow for the passage of air in and out of the lungs. In asthma, these airways develop hypersensitivity, inflammation, and narrowing. This causes difficulty in breathing. In the …
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What exactly is a tumor? Tumors can vary in size, from a tiny swelling to a large lump. Tumors can appear almost anywhere in the body. A tumor is an abnormal growth of cells, which serves no purpose in the body. A tumor develops when cells divide too quickly and without control. Tumors can vary in size, from a tiny …
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What is depression? Antidepressants are drugs used to treat depression. Depression is a type of mood disorder and serious medical illness. It negatively affects the thought and the behavioral process of life. If an individual is suffering from depression for more than two weeks, it is called a major depressive disorder or clinical depression. Depression often leads to sadness and …
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What is throat cancer? The early symptoms of throat cancer may be similar to a cold in the early stages (e.g., a persistent sore throat). Sore throat and hoarseness that persists for more than two weeks. The early symptoms of throat cancer may be similar to a cold in the early stages (e.g., a persistent sore throat). Sore throat and …
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What is trisomy 18? Trisomy 18 or Edwards syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes a raft of life-threatening birth defects. Only a small minority of infants born with Edwards syndrome live more than a year. Trisomy 18, also known as Edwards syndrome, is the second most common trisomy behind trisomy 21 (Down syndrome). It occurs in 1 in 5,000 …
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Facts you should know about X-rays Share Your Story X-ray of herniated disc between L4 and L5 X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation that can pass through solid objects, including the body. X-rays penetrate different objects more or less according to their density. In medicine, X-rays are used to view images of the bones and other structures in the …
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What is congestive heart failure? The four stages of congestive heart failure depending on the functional capabilities of the heart. Congestive heart failure is a severe progressive condition that affects the pumping power of heart muscles. Because of decreased cardiac output, the organs get inadequate blood, oxygen, and nutrients. Congestive heart failure usually affects the lungs, heart, and kidneys. A …
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What is a migraine? The exact cause of migraines is still unknown. A combination of certain triggers, such as bright light, and weather changes. A migraine is a type of severe headache that is often accompanied by nausea or vomiting. External influences and changes in the brain are thought to trigger a migraine, however, the exact cause is still unknown. …
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What is a TAP block? A TAP or transversus abdominis plane block numbs the abdominal muscles and skin in preparation for surgery. A transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is a procedure to anesthetize the nerves that provide sensation and muscle function to the abdominal wall and skin. For a transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block, an anesthetic injection is administered in …
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