Does the Shingles Vaccine Prevent Cold Sores?
Shingles and cold sores result from different types of herpes viruses. So, while the shingles vaccine is very effective at preventing shingles, it doesn’t prevent cold sores. Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a painful rash that usually develops on one…
Tips on Talking to Children About Their Food Allergy
Understanding what it means to live with a food allergy as a kid starts with clear communication. For parents, this means focusing on simple language and modeling “safe” behaviors. A food allergy occurs when your immune system responds to a…
GERD and Related Conditions
Conditions like obesity, hiatal hernia, and asthma often co-occur with GERD and may contribute to its development. GERD can itself lead to complications like esophagitis or Barrett’s esophagus. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that develops from stomach acids…
Fecal Impaction Vs. Constipation: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment
Constipation is difficulty emptying your bowels. Fecal impaction is the buildup of hardened stool in your bowel that you can’t pass. Fecal impaction is a potential complication of chronic constipation and less commonly occurs due to problems with the muscles…
Can Pumpkin Seed Reduce Symptoms of Overactive Bladder?
Although research is limited on pumpkin seeds in their various forms as a treatment for overactive bladder, they may be worth a try. Find out how to take this natural remedy. Making more frequent, urgent trips to the bathroom or…
Prader-Willi Syndrome: Characteristics, Complications, and More
Prader-Willi syndrome is a genetic disorder caused by changes to chromosome 15. It affects growth, behavior, and learning and requires continual management to avoid potentially life-threatening complications. Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic syndrome marked by low muscle tone,…
FAS and ADHD: Similarities and Differences
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) and attention eficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) have similar symptoms and often occur together. Certain environmental factors, like prenatal alcohol exposure and difficult childhood experiences, may contribute to this link. FAS is classified under fetal alcohol spectrum…
Triamcinolone Acetonide for Eczema: How it Works and Side Effects
Triamcinolone acetonide (TA) is a corticosteroid medication that can help control inflammation. If you have eczema, it can help alleviate symptoms like redness and itching. While TA can help treat eczema, it can cause side effects, so it may not…
Types of Allergies: 7 Common Triggers, Symptoms, and More
It’s not uncommon for people to develop allergies to various animals, foods, medications, and other substances. People with severe allergies may want to carry an EpiPen. An allergy is an immune system response to a substance called an allergen. Common…
Prader-Willi Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Learn about Prader-Willi syndrome, a rare genetic disorder affecting growth, behavior, and appetite. Discover symptoms, causes, and management strategies. 1. What is Prader-Willi Syndrome? Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic disorder affecting approximately 1 in 10,000–30,000 people worldwide. First…
Vulvar Hidradenitis Suppurativa: Causes, Treatment, and More
Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can sometimes affect the vulva region. Since it may be linked to anogenital cancer, prompt diagnosis and treatment are recommended. HS is a chronic and inflammatory skin condition characterized by inflamed lesions and tunneling under the skin.…
Ductal-Dependent Congenital Heart Disease: Symptoms and Outlook
Ductal-dependent congenital heart disease involves a problem with the arteries that carry blood out of the heart. It’s usually discovered soon after birth, but medications and treatments can help manage it. Congenital heart disease can range from mild heart defects…