Author: Shan Gilman

Epididymitis is inflammation in the sperm-carrying tube at the back of your testicle. The swelling can cause intense pain in or around your testicle and scrotum. It can develop at all ages but is most common in young men ages 19 to 35. It usually occurs due to a bacterial infection or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Infection often begins in the urethra, the prostate, or the bladder. Gonorrhea and chlamydia infections are most often the cause of the problem in young heterosexual men. In children and older men, it is more commonly caused by E coli and similar bacteria. This is also…

Sleep is not just about rest; it’s a cornerstone of physical and mental well-being, especially for developing children. Numerous studies emphasize that inadequate sleep disrupts cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall health. Dr. Mary Carskadon, a renowned sleep researcher, notes that “sleep is a critical biological function that supports almost every aspect of a child’s development,” affecting their ability to learn, focus, and engage. Most parents and children alike face a mounting “sleep debt,” a concept in sleep science referring to the cumulative effect of missed hours of rest. According to the National Sleep Foundation, school-aged children should be getting…

Environmental factors play a significant role in the development and exacerbation of allergies, particularly seasonal ones. Among the most extensively studied environmental allergens are airborne substances such as dust mites, pollens, fungi, and animal dander. These allergens can trigger allergic reactions, including respiratory and cutaneous symptoms, through an immune system response mediated by immunoglobulin E (IgE). Environmental exposure to these allergens is a major contributor to the prevalence and severity of allergic conditions, with seasonal allergies becoming an increasingly common public health problem. A recent study conducted among 100 individuals suffering from seasonal allergies highlights the impact of environmental factors…

Have you ever wondered whether walking or running is the best option for starting a fitness routine? Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision. Both walking and running are forms of aerobic exercise, also known as cardiovascular or cardio exercise. Research shows that both activities offer several health benefits, including: In addition to physical benefits, cardiovascular exercise is also beneficial for mental health. One study found that both running and walking can help reduce anxiety and depression while also improving mood and self-esteem. Another study revealed that just 10 minutes of running at a moderate intensity can…

Throat cancer is a broad term that refers to cancer affecting one or more parts of the throat. Typically, individuals diagnosed with throat cancer have it in their larynx (voice box) or oropharynx (the middle part of their throat). There are several types of throat cancer, with the two most common being laryngeal cancer and oropharyngeal cancer. Laryngeal cancer affects the larynx and occurs more frequently in men than in women. Oropharyngeal cancer affects the area of the throat located just behind the mouth and primarily impacts individuals aged 55 and older, with an average age of diagnosis around 63.…

The Citrus and Avocado Smoothie with Honey offers several health benefits for diabetes patients, particularly in stabilizing blood sugar levels. Avocados are rich in healthy monounsaturated fats and fiber, which slow the absorption of sugars from food and help maintain steady blood sugar levels. The fiber in both avocado and citrus fruits, like oranges or lemons, helps regulate digestion and prevents blood sugar spikes after meals. Additionally, honey, when used in moderation, has a lower glycemic index compared to refined sugars, providing a natural sweetness without causing sharp fluctuations in blood sugar. This combination makes the smoothie a great choice…

The pulse oximeter, or Pulse Ox, is an electronic device that measures the saturation of oxygen carried in your red blood cells. Pulse oximeters are a small, clip-like device that can be attached to your fingers, forehead, nose, foot, ears, or toes. The purpose is to see if your blood is well oxygenated. It can rapidly detect even small changes in oxygen levels. These levels show how efficiently blood is carrying oxygen to the extremities furthest from your heart, including your arms and legs. Medical professionals may use pulse oximeters to monitor the health of people with conditions that affect…

Did you know that diabetes ranks among the top 10 leading causes of death globally, claiming over 6.7 million lives annually? Diabetes is a condition characterized by elevated blood sugar (glucose) levels. It arises when the pancreas fails to produce enough insulin or when the body becomes resistant to insulin’s effects. This disease affects individuals of all ages. The risk of developing diabetes without a family history is approximately 0.4%. However, if your biological mother has Type 1 diabetes, your risk increases to 1% to 4%, and if your biological father has the condition, your risk ranges from 3% to…

Argyria is a rare medical condition that causes a bluish-gray discoloration of the skin, eyes, and even internal organs due to extended exposure to silver or silver compounds. Commonly associated with colloidal silver—used as a supplement or in alternative medicine—this condition results from the gradual accumulation of silver particles in skin and tissues, leading to irreversible pigmentation. Although not life-threatening, the cosmetic and psychological impacts can be profound. Causes of Argyria Argyria develops from the prolonged buildup of silver particles in the body, often due to extensive exposure to silver-containing compounds. This can occur through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption,…

Diabetes is a growing health concern worldwide, affecting millions of people across age groups. Simply put, diabetes occurs when the body is unable to effectively use glucose, the final product of carbohydrate metabolism. This inability to manage glucose leads to various complications and requires lifelong management. Types of Diabetes There are three main types of diabetes, each with unique causes and characteristics: 1. Type 1 Diabetes: This is an autoimmune condition where the body mistakenly attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. The exact cause remains unknown, but it is often diagnosed early in life. Although rare, Type 1 diabetes can…