Melanoma and other skin cancers 07/28/2011
Skin cancer; Squamous cell cancer; Basal cell cancer; Actinic keratosis; Nonmelanoma skin cancer Highlights: Overview: Skin cancers are divided into two major groups: Nonmelanoma, which includes basal cell cancer and squamous cell cancer Melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer For the year 2011, the American Cancer Society estimates there will be about 70,230 new cases of melanoma, and about 8,790 deaths from melanoma.
Menopause 09/13/2011
Estrogen; Hormone replacement therapy Highlights: Menopause Menopause is a natural process that occurs as a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs, and production of the hormones estrogen and progesterone declines. (Menopause can also occur if a woman’s ovaries are surgically removed.) Menopause usually happens gradually between the ages of 45 - 55. During this transition time, called “perimenopause,” menstrual periods become more irregular and begin to taper off.
Menstrual disorders 09/13/2011
Dysmenorrhea; Menorrhagia; Amenorrhea; Cramps; Heavy menstrual bleeding Highlights: Menstrual Disorders Menstrual disorders include: Painful cramps (dysmenorrhea) during menstruation. Primary dysmenorrhea is caused by menstruation itself. Secondary dysmenorrhea is triggered by another condition, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids. Heavy bleeding (menorrhagia, metrorrhagia, or menometrorrhagia) includes prolonged menstrual periods or excessive bleeding.
Menstruation: Absent Periods (Amenorrhea) 09/29/2005
Menstruation: Absent Periods (Amenorrhea) Description: An in-depth report on the causes and treatment of absent periods. Introduction: This article has been retired. Review Date: 9/29/2005 Reviewed By: A.D.A.M. Editorial A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Migraine headaches 11/07/2011
Migraine headaches Description: An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of migraine. Highlights: Migraine Triggers Migraines can be triggered by many everyday things. Different people respond to different triggers, so it is important to track your migraine patterns to help you avoid things that set off your migraine attacks. Common migraine triggers include: Emotional stress Intense physical exertion Abrupt weather changes Bright or flickering lights High altitude Travel motion Lack of sleep Skipping meals Odors Certain foods and beverages (aged cheese, chocolate, red wine, beer, coffee, and many others) Food additives or preservatives (such as nitrates and monosodium glutamate) Migraine Treatment Approaches Migraines need a two-pronged approach: Treatment and prevention.
Multiple sclerosis 09/07/2011
Multiple sclerosis Description: An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of MS. Highlights: What Is Multiple Sclerosis? Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system. MS is thought to be an autoimmune disease. In MS, the body’s immune system produces cells and proteins (antibodies) that attack myelin, a fatty substance that protects nerve fibers. The cause of MS is unknown. It is not an inherited disease, but it appears that genetic factors play a role in making some people more susceptible to developing it.
