How Smoking Causes Lung Cancer
Doctors have known for years that smoking cigarettes, cigars, and pipe tobacco causes cancer. In fact, by the time the US Surgeon General issued a warning about the dangers of smoking in 1964, there was already overwhelming evidence that smoking was deadly. In the decades since, researchers have discovered many of the ways that smoking […]
What Does My Thyroid Do?
You have probably heard of the thyroid, but do you know what this important organ does? Your thyroid is butterfly-shaped gland situated at the front of your neck, just below your Adam’s apple. The thyroid has two lobes, each of which is located on either side of your windpipe, or trachea. If your thyroid gland […]
Why are My Joints Stiff and Sore?
Stiff joints can slow you down. Many people feel a bit stiff and sore when they first get out of bed, but some experience joint stiffness and soreness throughout the day. While stiff joints are often the result of aging, certain medical conditions can cause stiff joints. Fortunately, doctors can usually determine the root cause […]
What is Degenerative Disc Disease?
Degenerative disc disease is not actually a disease, but rather a group of conditions that affects the joint of the spine. Most common in older adults, degenerative disc disease can cause pain and reduce mobility. Fortunately, doctors can detect and treat these conditions to alleviate discomfort and improve mobility. About Degenerative Disc Disease Degenerative disc […]
Everything You Need to Know about Osteoporosis – Before You Fall
Did you know that many people with osteoporosis don’t realize they have the condition until they break a bone? It’s true! Osteoporosis is one of the most common conditions that goes unnoticed until someone suddenly breaks a bone after a relatively mild fall. Fortunately, you can learn everything you need to know about osteoporosis, even […]
What is Calcified Plaque?
Atherosclerosis is a serious health condition in which calcified plaque builds up inside your arteries. This calcified plaque causes the arteries to become hard and narrow, which can prevent blood from flowing through your veins and increase your risk for blood clots, heart attack, or stroke. But what exactly is calcified plaque? Plaque is a […]
What’s a Rotator Cuff Injury?
Rotator cuff injuries are common causes of pain and disability among adults in the United States. In fact, nearly 2 million people visit their doctors each year because of rotator cuff problems, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. The risk for rotator cuff injuries increase with age. A rotator cuff injury can cause […]
What Happens During a Stroke?
A stroke is a medical emergency that prevents a part of your brain from getting the oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood it needs. More specifically, stroke affects the arteries that carries blood to and within your brain. A stroke can have devastating consequences, including disability and even death. Understanding what happens during a stroke can help […]
What Causes Bone Loss?
Bones are incredibly strong. In fact, ounce for ounce, bones are stronger than steel and some bones are about four times stronger than concrete. Bones are so strong for their weight because of the density of the material in bones and the way bones constantly rebuild themselves. Unfortunately, bones can lose some of the density […]
What is Ischemic Colitis?
Schemic colitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the large intestine, also known as the colon or bowel. It develops when there is not enough blood flow to the colon. Ischemic colitis (IC) can be acute, which means it develops and goes away quickly, or it can be a chronic, long-term condition. Like many other organs, […]
