Many women suffer from headaches. Types of headaches include tension headaches, cluster headaches, migraine headaches, and sinus headaches, as well as those caused by eye disorders and severe neurological disease. Many women suffer from mild headaches early in pregnancy. While the exact cause of the headache is unclear and often cannot be elucidated, the majority […]
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What is it? A cervical biopsy is a diagnostic procedure used to evaluate abnormal cervical tissue found during a Pap smear. What conditions is it designed to treat? A cervical biopsy is used to monitor abnormalities in the cervix including: cervical erosion, cervical polyps, abnormal blood vessel patterns, inflammation in the cervix, or white patches. […]
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What is Bone Mineral Densitometry? Bone mineral densitometry (BMD) determines the amount of bone and over time can track loss (and the risk of developing osteoporosis) by measuring radiation absorption by the skeleton. Various bones are used, but the best indication comes from those in the hip and spine. What conditions is it designed to […]
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What is blood transfusion? Blood transfusion is the transfer of whole blood or a component–such as plasma, platelets, red blood cells, or clotting factors–from one person to another. What conditions is it designed to treat? Blood transfusions are used during medical procedures to increase blood volume, correct clotting problems, and improve immunity. Blood transfusions are […]
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Many patients have found themselves very capable of eating properly at home but quickly fall into old habits when it’s time to eat out. During the past 10 years or so, however, restaurants have become more aware that many of their patrons are on restricted diets. There is absolutely no reason to feel uncomfortable about […]
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Food must taste good to be enjoyed. There are many interesting flavors to enjoy besides “salty,” including savory, sweet, spicy, peppery, and tangy. This sheet offer tips for flavoring foods without salt and for cooking with low-sodium ingredients. What to Use Instead of Salt Here are some suggestions of herbs, spices, and flavorings to use […]
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Abdominal pain refers to pain in the stomach region or in the abdominal area. Abdominal pain is a nonspecific symptom that may be associated with a multitude of conditions. Some do not occur within the abdomen itself but cause abdominal discomfort; an example would be the abdominal pain associated with strep throat. Some originate within […]
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Adnexal torsion is an infrequent but serious cause of acute (sudden onset) abdominal pain. Studies have shown that adnexal torsion accounts for 2.5% of all gynecologic surgical emergencies in the United States. Although it can occur at any age, adnexal torsion is typically seen in younger patients with average age being 25. What Is an […]
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What Are Allergies? An allergy is defined as a “harmful, increased susceptibility to a specific substance,” also known as hypersensitivity. What Causes Allergies? Allergy is caused by hypersensitivity of the immune system leading to an immune response and occurs when the immune system responds to substances that are normally harmless (such as grass or pollen) […]
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Abnormal uterine bleeding is a common condition that is defined as heavy menstrual flow, or unexpected or prolonged bleeding. The incidence of abnormal uterine bleeding increases as women grow older. Abnormal uterine bleeding may be caused by a variety of factors and, depending on the cause and nature of the bleeding, there are a variety […]
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Females should have their first gynecological exam by the age of 20, or when they become sexually active. At this point they should begin having yearly pap smears and pelvic exams. Many pediatricians are comfortable taking care of their patients’ gynecological problems. If this is the case, your pediatrician may continue to see you for […]
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Despite all the advertising by manufacturers of feminine hygiene products, there are no practical reasons for women to douche on a regular basis. In the past, many women felt that douching was necessary for cleanliness and it was a widespread practice. The latest research concludes that there are really no benefits to douching and there […]
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What is diabetes and what is its prevalence in African American women? Diabetes is an abnormal metabolism of sugar that happens when the body does not produce enough insulin. Type II or non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus affects about 16 million American people. Among African American women, this form of diabetes has reached epidemic proportions. About […]
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Today, most people who take insulin to manage diabetes inject the insulin with a needle and syringe that delivers insulin just under the skin. Several other devices for taking insulin are available, and new approaches are under development. Insulin pens can be helpful if you want the convenience of carrying insulin with you in a […]
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Diabetes is a serious disease. It cannot be cured, but careful control of blood sugar can prevent or delay the complications of the disease. If you have diabetes, your body cannot properly convert foods into the energy needed for daily activity. Our bodies change the foods we eat into a form of sugar called glucose. […]
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The diaphragm, like the male or female condom, is a barrier method of contraception and prevents pregnancy by preventing sperm from reaching the egg. The diaphragm is a ring-shaped device that fits inside the vagina and covers the cervix. There are a variety of types of contraceptives including the flat or coil spring type, and […]
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Choosing a method of birth control is a highly personal decision, based on individual preferences, medical history, lifestyle, and other factors. Each method carries with it a number of risks and benefits of which the user should be aware. Each method of birth control has a failure rate–an inability to prevent pregnancy over a 1-year […]
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Contraceptive options for women over age 40 are similar to those for a younger woman. Types of contraception include: Barrier Contraception Spermicide – spermicide is a jelly or cream that is toxic to sperm. It is placed into the vagina before each episode of intercourse. The effectiveness rate is 74% to 94%. Condoms – condoms […]
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Alcohol and Nutrition Nutrition is a process that serves two purposes: to provide energy and to maintain body structure and function. Food supplies energy and provides the building blocks needed to replace worn or damaged cells and the nutritional components needed for body function. Alcoholics often eat poorly, limiting their supply of essential nutrients and […]
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Traveling with diabetes involves extra preparation and planning. With proper care, however, you should be able to go anywhere in the world. Here are some guidelines to follow when you’re traveling: Always carry your diabetes supplies with you. When going through security, don’t worry about X-ray effects on your your meter or your insulin. If […]
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