
If you feel tingling or numbness in your back, it may stem from a pinched nerve, injury, or irritation. If the discomfort persists, consult a physician since it could indicate a different underlying problem. A tingling sensation in the back is often likened to pins-and-needles, burning, or a “crawling” feeling. Depending on the root cause and location, it may be chronic or brief (acute). Get immediate medical care if the…

Hip flexor discomfort can develop when the muscles and tendons that flex your hip are overworked. A strain may indicate a muscle tear and could necessitate medical evaluation. (img by Sports-health) What are your hip flexors? Raising your knee toward your torso relies on a group of muscles collectively called the hip flexors. These include: the iliacus and psoas major muscles, commonly referred to as the iliopsoas the rectus femoris,…

There are numerous factors that can cause your period to arrive later than expected. From emotional stress to serious medical conditions, a late or skipped period can stem from many sources. You may have heard that antibiotics are one of those contributors. However, antibiotics themselves aren’t a documented cause of a delayed period. If your period is late while you’re taking antibiotics or immediately afterward, the medication itself is unlikely…

Having a urinary tract infection (UTI) doesn’t directly change or postpone your menstrual cycle. If your period is late, other factors — like stress or pregnancy — are more likely to be responsible. UTIs are frequent, particularly among sexually active women in their reproductive years. These infections typically arise when bacteria enter the urethra during sexual activity. Because the urethral opening sits just in front of the vagina, it’s understandable…

If you have signs of both an eye and an ear infection, a clinician may evaluate you for conjunctivitis-otitis syndrome. This condition involves simultaneous conjunctivitis (“pink eye”) and otitis media (a middle ear infection). The term for this syndrome was introduced more than 40 years ago. The exact prevalence of conjunctivitis-otitis syndrome is unclear. Considered separately, bacterial acute conjunctivitis and otitis media are both very common in young children. Read…

Key takeaways Create a warm compress by dipping a clean cloth into comfortably hot water, then place it over closed eyes and reheat frequently for optimal comfort. Warm compresses can calm inflammation, boost blood flow, and help clear clogged eyelids caused by styes, blepharitis, and certain dry eye symptoms. Choose a cold compress for injuries, allergies, insect bites, and sudden swelling from a black eye. Seek medical care if symptoms…

Preparation guidelines for a CT scan vary based on the specific type of imaging you’re scheduled for. For example, if you’re undergoing a bowel scan or a study that involves contrast dye, certain dietary adjustments may be required ahead of time. In general, preparing for a CT scan (also known as a CAT scan) depends on both the area of the body being examined and the technique used. Your doctor…

Types of endoscopies Endoscopy is a broad term that refers to several diagnostic procedures used to examine the inside of the body. During an upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy, your physician inserts an endoscope through your mouth and gently advances it down your esophagus. An endoscope is a thin, flexible tube equipped with a light and a small camera that transmits images to a monitor. Your doctor may recommend an upper…

Carefully following your healthcare provider’s directions is the most important step when getting ready for laboratory work. In addition to specific instructions, getting adequate rest, maintaining proper hydration, and steering clear of certain foods and beverages can help support accurate results. Many people also wonder, How soon should you drink water before a blood test, especially if fasting is required. (img by Phlebotomy Training Specialists) Blood tests are routinely performed…