Conditions + Treatments

According to uptodate.com, over one million burn injuries are reported each year in the U.S. Common causes of skin burns range from chemicals, flames, hot objects and sun overexposure. There are four ways to categorize skin burns.

Knee pain can result from a number of causes. Overuse, tendon and ligament tears, and tendinitis are several common problems. Some muscle pain can also manifest as knee pain. Running with knee pain can be painful, and you should check with a doctor before running if you have already been diagnosed with a knee injury or disorder. Depending on the type of knee pain you are experiencing, running uphill may be therapeutic and help rehabilitate your knee.

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, color blindness affects approximately 8 percent of the male population and 0.5 percent of the female population in the United States. Color blindness can range anywhere from a mild problem differentiating between colors to the complete inability to see color. To explain color vision and a lack thereof, there’s only four simple steps.

A scar, also known as a cicatrix, is a skin growth that appears on top of a wound when normal skin cannot repair itself. Scarring occurs after nearly every cut or abrasion, but sometimes it’s not noticeable. Other times, scars can be pink or white, and shinier than normal skin. Although scars will remain on the body, it is possible to reduce their appearance quickly through home remedies, over-the-counter methods or the help of your dermatologist.

Spider veins, which are mostly found on feet or legs (although they can occur anywhere on the body) are veins that are either swollen or twisted due to lack of circulation. These red or blue veins appear as a webbing under the skin after added pressure is put on the body. More common in older women, spider veins are often unattractive as well as difficult to treat. However, there are some alternative treatments besides surgery that people can try to get rid of these unsightly veins.

Folliculitis is an infection of the hair follicles that causes small white-headed itchy pimples to form. Mild infections can be uncomfortable and severe infections may cause scarring and permanent hair loss.

Cold water can be extremely dangerous. According to the U.S. Search and Rescue Task Force, cold water can decrease your body heat up to 32 times faster than cold air. Knowing what to do when someone has been submerged in cold water could mean the difference between life and death.

Respiratory system diseases are the third highest leading cause of death in America, according to the American Lung Association. Some of the most common forms are asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, sarcoidosis and tuberculosis.

Skin irritation is annoying, unattractive, and sometimes even painful. Even worse is when you experience skin irritation due to the detergent you used in the laundry. The detergent likely touched your clothing, your towels and your bedding, making each of these things irritants of your skin reaction. Always consult your doctor regarding the best treatment for skin reactions, and in the meantime do what you can to lessen your exposure to the irritants.

Previously a substance exclusively used for surgery, hyaluronic acid has recently begun to show up in more general products, such as lotions and oral supplements. Its appearance in such products has cause health-conscious consumers to question this ingredient’s origin, purpose and safety.

There are an innumerable number of parasites that can potentially infest your body. It is estimated that most people have at least one type of parasitical infection, maybe more than one. Most of these tend to be mild but either way, these are things you don’t want in your body. That is why human parasite cleansing is important.

There was a time when Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) was widely used for menopause. After some studies showed increased risks of serious problems like heart disease, stroke and breast cancer, it stopped being used as a standard treatment. Women must now weigh with their doctor all the advantages and disadvantages of Hormone Replacement Therapy during menopause.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter found in the brain. It affects things such as mood, appetite, sleep and even memory. Prozac and other antidepressants interact with the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), preventing the uptake of serotonin and making more available in the bloodstream. Serotonin also is found in plants, a fact that may interest those who are looking to improve their levels without taking medication.

Salmonella Enteritidis is one type of Salmonella bacterium, which is responsible for the Salmonellosis infection in humans. Salmonella Enteritidis is responsible for an estimated 142,000 illnesses and dozens of deaths every year in the United States.

Detox foot patches are placed on the soles of the feet for from eight to ten hours, for the removal of toxins from the body. The patches contain all natural ingredients, and no artificial chemicals. Reflexology involves a number of techniques based on the premise that the nerve endings on the feet contain points called meridians that serve as channels to link different parts and organs of the human body. Meridians are also directly linked to the function of the circulatory and lymphatic systems of the body, which are believed to be improved through the process of reflexology. Manufacturors of detox patches claim that the patches stimulate these same meridians, thus drawing toxins out of the body through the soles of the feet.

Chelation is a medical procedure that uses an intravenous medication to remove mercury and lead. While some people believe this rids the body of impurities and helps prevent and treat diseases, there are risks associated with chelation.

Many parents are understandably concerned when their infant is vomiting. Many childhood illnesses cause vomiting, and during a child’s early years it will happen many times. It is important to keep a vomiting infant as hydrated and as comfortable as possible.

There are many funguses that are toxic to humans–they easily enter our bodies through the air we breathe and the foods we eat. They are kept in check by the healthy bacteria in our system, but the use of antibiotics, oral contraceptives, alcohol and additives and preservatives in our food destroys the healthy bacteria, making our systems out off balance and allowing fungus to grow unchecked. A fungal overgrowth–often called candida–will cause numerous health problems, making it necessary to cleanse the fungus from the body.

Herbal therapies and remedies can help to boost the immune system and may help relieve symptoms of chronic health problems as well. Many herbal remedies are available through your local health food store and can come in the form of dried herbs, tinctures, essential oils and extracts. You can also grow your own herbs at home for a more organic approach to treating and boosting your own immune system.

The Neem plant (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) has been used for centuries as a mild antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antifungal. In many parts of the world, Neem is known as “the village pharmacy” because of its varied therapeutic uses. A tropical evergreen native to South Asia, Neem is related to Mahogany. Neem twigs, bark, leaves and seeds are used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, and its active ingredients are popping up in many natural products for the home and garden.

Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a viral infection of the respiratory system. The viruses that cause flu are airborne and can be serious or deadly for newborns, the elderly and people with some chronic conditions. Flu symptoms such as head and body aches, persistent cough, fever, chills, runny or stuffy nose and sore throat can cause great discomfort. They may also stop you from performing your normal everyday activities. Fortunately, there are some homemade treatments you can utilize to ease your flu symptoms.

When it comes to suicide there are numerous signs to watch for, partly because it is triggered by a variety of factors. Some of those factors are easy to spot and based on everyday behavior. Other factors, however, are much harder to pick up on and can be based on mental illness, changes in a person’s life or even the perils of growing up.

Brethine is a brand name for the medication terbutaline, a bronchodilator prescribed to treat asthma and other lung disorders. A beta adrenergic receptor agonist, Brethine expands air passages in the lungs so the person can breathe more easily. Several side effects are possible.

Any damage to the head by a traumatic blow affects the brain and its electrical nerve signals. As a consequence, it is possible for those signals to be interrupted briefly, causing a seizure.

Suicide is a disturbing event that claims the lives of thousands of people each year. It not only destroys the life of the person involved, but can devastate the lives of others who are close to that person. Luckily, some suicides can be prevented through speedy intervention. Intervention depends on being able to recognize risk factors and warning signs that a person may be suicidal.

Different fungi can cause an infection of the toenail, but most come from a specific family known as dermaphytes. Dermaphytes thrive in relatively warm, damp environments, like the floors and showers of your average locker room, making it quite easy for anyone who frequents the gym to contract a fungal infection. All it takes for this type of infection to affect the nail is a small cut, tear or separation within the nail bed. Regardless of how you fell victim to this condition, treatment is readily available.

Coconut oil is valued worldwide for its health, beauty and healing properties. The coconut is even considered a divine plant in Ayurvedic medicine. Generations of folk remedies have recommended the use of coconut oil to treat a wide variety of illnesses such as asthma, bronchitis, flu, gingivitis, skin conditions and even sexually transmitted diseases.

Purified water has two major benefits. Consuming purified water is healthier for your body, as it does not contain many of the contaminants that are in non-purified water. Additionally, many people believe purified water tastes better, whether consumed alone or in coffee, tea, or other beverages and foods. There are several ways in which water can be purified.

For most people who are healthy and have no chronic medical problems, influenza is not harmful and will go away on its own in just a week or so. However, the Centers for Disease Control recommends that those with flu-like symptoms see their physician within 48 hours to determine the appropriate course of treatment. For those wanting to relieve their flu symptoms naturally, there are several ideas that are sure to help you feel better soon.

The exact cause of acne on the scalp is not known. Some cases may be due to an allergic reaction to shampoos and similar products. Others may be caused by micro-organisms such as mites, yeast or bacteria on the scalp. Regardless, the pimples can be itchy, painful and difficult to treat topically as they are usually buried under the hair.

Psoriasis is a common skin condition where the body produces too many skin cells. As the skin cells pile up on the outer layer of the skin, they get red and inflamed. According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, nearly half the people who have psoriasis, have it on their scalp. There are a lot of ways to treat psoriasis of the scalp including topical treatments, medications and UV rays.

Gallstones occur when fluid from the gallbladder hardens and forms small pebble-like formations. It is believed that this occurs when there is too much cholesterol in the bile. After forming, a gallstone may move beyond the gallbladder and block a bile duct, causing pain and discomfort in separate portions of the body. There are several cures available, both surgical and non-invasive, for the elimination of gallstones.

A seizure is an episode of involuntary contractions of muscle and an alteration of the state of consciousness that occurs suddenly and without control. Seizure medications are frequently prescribed for individuals with recurrent seizures or epilepsy. While all medicines have the potential to cause side effects, many individuals have little or no side effects.

Neoprene back supports are normally worn to provide compression and support to prevent or reduce low back pain. People may use these back supports after an injury from an accident or heavy lifting. Physical therapists and chiropractors often recommend back supports in addition to a specific set of exercises to reduce neck or low back pain. Body builders may use a variation of a neoprene back support for very heavy lifting but this can backfire if they lift beyond their means, as a back support may offer false confidence and become a prelude to injury.

Ischemic optic neuropathy refers to damage of the optic nerve due to a restriction in the blood supply of the optic nerve. It is characterized by a loss of vision over a period of a few days accompanied by a swelling of the optic disc. The loss of vision is usually permanent although some recovery is possible in the early stages with appropriate treatment.

People have been using this Mediterranean herb for more than 2,000 years for the protection and healing of the liver, for diabetes control and as an antidote for mushroom poisoning. Milk thistle has been standardized and is available commercially in capsules and extracts. Although there is some scientific evidence to support claims of its benefits, it’s important to be aware of possible side effects and to work with your physician on your treatment.

Over-the-counter allergy treatments are available in three primary forms–nasal sprays, antihistamines and decongestants. They come in many forms and with a variety of price tags. Always notify your health-care provider when taking these types of medications. Never use more than the recommended dosages on the labels of the treatments.

Children who test positive for high blood pressure (or hypertension) have blood pressure that is the same as or higher than 90 percent of children within the same age, height, and gender group, according to the Mayo Clinic. There is no standard blood pressure reading for all children as there is with all adults because children’s bodies have different “normal” blood pressure ranges at various stages of growth. However, since some factors make certain children more likely to develop high blood pressure than others, it is important to know if your child is at risk.

Cellular respiration is the natural metabolic process in which living cells break down a molecule of glucose into water, carbon dioxide and energy. The energy is stored in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), sometimes referred to as the “energy molecule” of the cell. However, this natural and necessary process spins off some by-products that, while essential to good health, in excess can be harmful to the body.

Kwell is a poisonous medication that can be fatal if swallowed and can cause irritation if it comes in contact with the eyes. Kwell contains lindane, an insecticide that must be used according to the doctor’s directions to rid the body of lice or scabies.

Hemorrhoids, also referred to as piles, are a medical disorder characterized by inflammation of the veins located near the anal and lower rectal regions. Straining during bowel movements is one of most common factors in the development of hemorrhoids. A Mayo clinic study estimates that 50 to 60 percent of individuals suffer from hemorrhoids during their life span. Various options are available to cure the condition effectively and completely.

A diagnosis of lung cancer can cause abundant stress and anxiety for the patient, not to mention her family and friends. Massage therapy can help create a state of calm and well-being so that the patient is better prepared to fight the cancer, both psychologically and physically. In addition, there are some specific massage techniques that can help deal with the side effects of cancer treatment.

Blood pressure is the measure of the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. It is measured in two forces. The first is the force the heart creates as blood is pumped into the arteries and on through the circulatory system. The second measures the arteries’ force as they resist the flow of blood, or when the heart is at rest. Blood pressure is expressed as two numbers. The force of the heart beating represents the systolic pressure, or the top number. The bottom number, or diastolic pressure, is when the heart is at rest.

Bladder infections are the second most common type of infection and account for over 8 million doctor’s visits a year, according the National Kidney Disease Clearinghouse. Catching a bladder infection early is the key to quick recovery, so it is important to know the symptoms.

Colds and congestion are common. And although both conditions aren’t serious, they can impact your normal routine. But fortunately, there are ways to achieve quick relief from a cold and congestion. There’s no cure for the common cold. However, medications and other simple strategies can speed your recovery and get rid of congestion.

Irritations of the skin can be bothersome and embarrassing, especially when they are visible to other people. Skin problems can cause itchiness, redness, blistering, flaking and more. There are a number of different types of skin irritations, most of which can be treated with modern creams and medicines. In the following article, a few of the most prevalent skin irritations along with their treatments will be discussed.

When skin stretches due to accelerated weight gain, such as during pregnancy, stretch marks may occur. While the skin is very elastic, there are certain limits to which it can stretch, and the addition of 25 to 35 pounds brought on by pregnancy can cause stretch marks both on the stomach and the breasts. While purple or red stretch marks may fade to white or silvery streaks over time, there are some more immediate treatment options available to new mothers.

Urinary tract infections can be simple issues that can be resolved with antibiotics. They can also be serious medical conditions that require immediate treatment. UTIs have recognizable symptoms and are typically easy to diagnose. They are far more common in women than in men.

Light therapy is used by mental health providers to assuage some conditions that have proven responsive to light exposure. Light therapy involves full-spectrum light, UV light or bright-light.

Although tanning beds are known to contribute to skin cancer, many people don’t consider the harmful effects that these booths can have on their eyes and overall vision.