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What are the benefits of witch hazel?

What are the benefits of witch hazel?

Witch hazel has a long history of medicinal use because of its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties. Witch hazel is a small tree native to the east coast of North America. Many people use it as a decorative outdoor plant. In this article, learn about the possible benefits of witch hazel, as well as how to […]

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Too much iron may raise the risk of certain strokes

Too much iron may raise the risk of certain strokes

The risk of having a stroke — particularly the kind that results from a blood clot or other obstacle traveling from the heart — appears to be greater in people who have higher levels of iron, according to recent research. New research finds a link between increased levels of iron and the risk of having […]

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Blood tests for rheumatoid arthritis: What to know

Blood tests for rheumatoid arthritis: What to know

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation in the joints. A doctor will diagnose rheumatoid arthritis by asking a person about their symptoms, carrying out a physical examination, taking blood tests, and using imaging studies. Doctors may test blood samples for several inflammatory and immune system compounds that are usually present in a […]

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Rheumatoid arthritis and CRP levels: What do they mean?

Rheumatoid arthritis and CRP levels: What do they mean?

Rheumatoid arthritis causes inflammation in the joints. Measuring the amount of C-reactive protein in the blood can help determine the extent of this inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that causes the body to attack healthy tissues in joints. This triggers inflammation, which causes joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. Blood tests can help […]

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Should you fast before a cholesterol test?

Should you fast before a cholesterol test?

A doctor may instruct a person to fast before taking a cholesterol test. This was once standard practice, but new studies are changing this recommendation. A cholesterol test measures the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in a person’s blood. Cholesterol is a fat-like material that is present in all of the body’s cells. The body […]

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Cancer: Could a ‘universal’ blood test make detection easier?

Cancer: Could a ‘universal’ blood test make detection easier?

Researchers developed a generic test for cancer and partnered with a tech company to bring it to market. They believe that this test could be the first screening tool to detect cancer. Researchers are working hard to develop an effective ‘universal’ blood test that would improve cancer detection. Cancer is one of the leading causes […]

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Can ulcerative colitis be fatal?

Can ulcerative colitis be fatal?

Ulcerative colitis is a long-term disease of the large intestine or colon. While the condition itself is not fatal, it can cause life-threatening complications in rare instances. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). According to estimates, it may affect as many as 907,000 people in the United States. In this […]

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Why are my feet swollen?

Why are my feet swollen?

A person might experience swollen feet for a number of reasons. Some causes, such as minor injury, are apparent and easy to treat. Others, however, may be signs of a serious underlying health condition that needs prompt medical attention. Here, we take a look at some of the reasons why a person’s feet may appear […]

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What is an estradiol test and why is it used?

What is an estradiol test and why is it used?

An estradiol test is a simple blood test to measure the amount of estradiol in a person’s blood. Estradiol, also known as E2, is one of the four types of estrogen that the ovaries chiefly produce. The adrenal glands, placenta, testes, and some tissues also produce smaller amounts of this hormone. The right estrogen levels […]

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What to know about the anti-smooth muscle antibody test

What to know about the anti-smooth muscle antibody test

Certain health conditions, including liver disease and hepatitis, cause the immune system to produce anti-smooth muscle antibodies. Doctors use a blood test to check for these antibodies. Anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMAs) attack several structural proteins in smooth muscle, affecting the liver and other tissues. The presence of ASMA in the blood indicates that a person […]