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Showing posts from April, 2012

Acne

ยป  What is Acne? Acne is a skin condition that causes whiteheads, blackheads, and inflamed red growths (papules, pustules, and cysts) to form. These growths are commonly called pimples or "zits." ALTERNATIVE NAMES Acne vulgaris; Cystic acne; Pimples; Zits How can one get rid of acne? Are homemade peels or facepacks helpful? Acne  or pimples are common,  particularly among adolescents and young adults. This is due to hormonal influences (testosterone) at that age. The sebaceous glands of the skin produce an oily secretion - sebum. These glands get blocked due to overgrowth of the superficial layers of the skin. Acne  is not just a skin problem but also has negative impact on the patient's self-esteem. This is particularly true of young girls and boys. Hence, it is important to treat acne at the earliest. The treatment of acne is best done by a dermatologist or skin specialist. He may advice topical treatment such as benzoyl peroxide...

Pertussis

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What is pertussis? Pertussis is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. It is also called whooping cough. With pertussis, air passages narrow and get plugged with thick sputum (spit). This may cause you to have coughing spells. Pertussis is usually less serious in adults and most serious in babies and young children. Adults often spread the illness to children who have not had shots (immunizations) to prevent pertussis. These shots are called DTaP and Tdap shots and protect children against diphtheria (D), pertussis (P), and tetanus (T). Teenagers and young adults lose DPT protection as they age. Teenagers and adults should receive a booster shot with the Tdap vaccine to help protect them. What causes pertussis? Pertussis is caused by a germ called a bacteria. It is easily spread in the air from someone with pertussis who coughs or sneezes. It may take 3 to 21 days to get pertussis after coming in contact with the bacteria. This time is called the incubation period. ...

Urinary Tract Infection In Women

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What is a urinary tract infection? A urinary tract infection (UTI) is when germs get inside your urinary tract. Your urinary tract includes your kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Urine is made in your kidneys, and flows from the ureters to the bladder. Urine exits your body from your bladder through your urethra. A UTI is more common in your lower urinary tract, which includes your bladder and urethra. A UTI that travels up into your kidneys is called pyelonephritis. Ask your caregiver for more information about pyelonephritis. What causes a urinary tract infection? A UTI is caused by bacteria (germs) that enters your urethra and travel up to your bladder. The bacteria that commonly causes a UTI is Escherichia coli (E coli). Your urethra is close to your anus, the opening through which your bowel movements (BMs) leave your body. This makes it easier for bacteria to enter your urinary tract. Most bacteria that enters your urinary tract are washed out when you urinate....