
Severe discomfort from arthritis in the middle knuckle (the proximal interphalangeal or PIP joint) may necessitate replacement surgery, called arthroplasty. Silicone implants are the most commonly used option. They generally provide the best outcomes and often last longer than a decade. PIP joint replacement, or PIP arthroplasty, is an operation to substitute a damaged PIP joint with an artificial implant to ease pain and improve motion. The PIP joint sits…

Falling asleep can feel impossible when you’re battling a cold. A blocked nose can make breathing difficult, while coughing and body aches may keep you tossing and turning. Still, getting solid rest is crucial for healing. Sleep helps your body recover. Thankfully, there are several strategies to temporarily ease symptoms so you can rest. Keep reading to find out how to sleep better with a common cold. (img by Sleep.ai)…

El nivel de pH de la vagina juega un papel fundamental para conservar su salud. No obstante, existen diversos factores naturales y ambientales que pueden alterar este equilibrio, provocando síntomas como picor, escozor y variaciones en el flujo vaginal. Con una comprensión básica de la escala de pH y su relación con tu organismo, puedes adoptar medidas para preservar el pH vaginal dentro de un rango saludable. Veamos algunas formas…

If your vaginal pH gets disrupted, you might notice odd odors or irritation. Probiotic pH supplements could offer help. Read on to learn more and view our favorite picks. (img by Lovebug Probiotics) Quick overview of top pH balance supplements If you’re dealing with unusual vaginal signs like itching or a persistent smell, an altered pH may be the culprit. This shift in the body’s chemistry can encourage unwanted bacterial…

If you’ve never encountered tooth powder, you’re in good company. This ancient dental product was the forerunner of modern toothpaste but largely fell out of everyday use decades ago. Although it’s uncommon in conventional stores, tooth powder remains available through online retailers and specialty outlets. But is it worth seeking out? This article outlines how tooth powder and toothpaste differ and summarizes the advantages and disadvantages of each. What is…

Blackened teeth can signal underlying dental problems that deserve attention. Healthy teeth usually vary from bright white to yellowish-white or pale gray. The whitish appearance comes largely from the calcium in enamel, the hard outer layer protecting each tooth. (img by Schwimmer Dental) Calcium is naturally white, so it heavily influences tooth shade. Still, other components within the tooth can introduce gray or yellow tones. Over time, enamel thins and…

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized hCG injections for certain medical indications. In individuals assigned female at birth (FAABs), they can be used to manage infertility. In those assigned male at birth (MAABs), they treat particular forms of hypogonadism. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is frequently dubbed “the pregnancy hormone” because of its central role in supporting pregnancy. Pregnancy tests detect hCG levels in blood or urine to determine…

During the first four weeks of pregnancy, hCG concentrations generally double roughly every 48 to 72 hours. If there’s concern for miscarriage, hCG levels are more likely to fail to double or to fall. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a hormone produced during pregnancy that helps sustain fetal development. Clinicians check hCG in blood and urine to verify pregnancy. They also use serial hcg blood measurements to assist in evaluating…

Niacinamide and retinol are two widely used skincare actives. Individually, each can help address acne and blemishes, even out skin tone, and lessen visible signs of aging. If you’re already using a product with one of these ingredients, you might be curious whether combining niacinamide and retinol would boost results and whether it’s safe to layer them. After all, some skincare actives don’t play well together. In this piece, we’ll…

Glycolic, lactic, citric, and malic acids — all of these are members of the alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) family. These acids serve as chemical exfoliants, breaking down the bonds that keep dead skin cells attached to the surface of your skin, explains NYC board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hadley King. That action helps your skin slough off those cells, revealing smoother, healthier skin beneath. AHAs also act as humectants, notes Dr. Orit…