Atherosclerosis

ATHEROSCLEROSIS pain

Last Updated December 20th, 2021

Overview

The heart sends oxygenated blood to the various organs and tissues of the body by pumping it through a network of arteries. In a healthy individual, the walls of the arteries are supple and elastic. With the passage of time, and exacerbated by diet and lifestyle habits, the lumen of the arteries can become narrow. The artery walls may lose their elasticity, becoming thickened and hard. This condition is known as arteriosclerosis and it results in a reduction of blood supply to the affected organ or tissues.

A report published by the American Heart Association in 2016 in the journal ‘Circulation’, states unequivocally that cardiovascular disease is currently the most significant cause of mortality in India. In a majority of these instances, atherosclerosis has been identified as the main causative factor. Another study, published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Disease Research in 2012, has found that Indians tend to develop clinically significant atherosclerosis at a younger age than other ethnic groups.

What is Atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis is a specific form of arteriosclerosis in which the arteries become narrower as a result of the accumulation of plaque within them. These plaques may be composed of fats, cholesterol, calcium, and cellular wastes. The lesions may even contain living white blood cells. Arteries in any part of the body can be affected. Generally, it is the large and mid-sized ones that are affected, however, the specifics vary from one person to another and are largely determined by lifestyle factors, particularly diet.

What Are Its Causes? How Does It Develop And Proceed?

ATHEROSCLEROSIS clogged arteriesAt present, scientists are of the opinion that damage to the smooth innermost (endothelial) lining of the arteries, resulting in inflammation, is the initial change that sets off the process of atherosclerosis. Numerous studies have found that cigarette smoking and elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood tend to lead to atherosclerosis. Hypertension is another causative factor. All of these factors are capable of inflicting damage on the walls of the arteries. Damage in the endothelium allows cholesterol in the blood to enter the artery wall. This triggers a response from white blood cells which attempt to ingest the unwanted particles, resulting in inflammation. As a result, a debris of ruptured white blood cells and fats begins to accumulate at the spot. Once this has happened, the process of accumulation of plaque is slow but progressive in the event that no steps are taken to rectify the causative factors.

As a result of lesion formation, the cells in the affected portions of artery walls may become stimulated to multiply, leading to an increased accumulation when fat builds up around them. Blood supply becomes progressively restricted as the lesion grows and chokes the lumen or the passage through which blood flows. Initially, the muscular portion of the artery wall attempts to compensate for the narrowing of the lumen by stretching itself. However, in the long term, this causes the artery wall to lose its elasticity.

There are a number of known causes and risk factors and these are enumerated in the list given below:

  • The risk increases with age.
  • Men are more likely to develop atherosclerosis.
  • Having a family history of the condition or related cardiovascular conditions.
  • High blood cholesterol level.
  • An elevated level of triglycerides in the blood.
  • Stress.
  • Leading a sedentary lifestyle.
  • Smoking.
  • Obesity.
  • Diabetes or some form of insulin resistance.
  • Hypertension.
  • Hypothyroidism.
  • Inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus.
  • Excessive consumption of alcohol.
  • Deficiency of vitamin B6.
  • A diet that is high in saturated fats and trans fats.
  • Some studies indicate that South Asians are more susceptible to developing atherosclerosis.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms of Atherosclerosis?

ATHEROSCLEROSIS painAtherosclerosis is a common condition and may begin to develop in childhood and teenage. However, it does not always give rise to noticeable symptoms. These are referred to as subclinical cases. In such instances, evidence of atherosclerosis may be discovered incidentally, usually when undergoing diagnostic tests for other conditions.

The nature of symptoms depends upon which arteries have been affected. Generally, significant symptoms tend to manifest when the plaque ruptures, causing clotting at the site and further blockage of blood flow. A list of possible symptoms includes:

  • Angina or chest pain.
  • Weakness or numbness in limbs.
  • Slurring of speech.
  • Blurring of vision.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Pain in the legs, especially when walking.
  • Fatigue.
  • Lightheadedness.

What Are Some Possible Complications?

Depending on the severity of the obstruction and the specific artery or arteries affected, there can be a variety of complications. If this condition goes undetected and untreated, the affected arteries may become completely blocked. Alternatively, a section of plaque may become detached, allowing the blood to carry it along until it gets lodged in a blood vessel, resulting in a stroke or a heart attack. It is also possible that a clot may form upon the plaque. If such a clot gets detached, it too can lead to stroke or heart attack.

Atherosclerosis is recognized as one of the major causes of cardiovascular disease. Some possible complications include:

  • Stroke, which can lead to permanent brain damage. A stroke may be preceded by transient ischemic attacks.
  • An aneurysm which may lead to internal hemorrhage.
  • Heart attack which can be fatal.
  • Coronary artery disease and Carotid artery disease, both of which can be fatal.
  • Peripheral Artery Disease which involves loss of blood supply to the limbs. This can also lead to a reduced capacity for healing and in extreme cases, the patient may need to undergo amputation of the limb.
  • Kidney failure.

What Tests Are Necessary To Diagnose Atherosclerosis?

As noted earlier, atherosclerosis does not always produce noticeable symptoms. When it does, the symptoms are not particularly specific. Tests are necessary in order to locate the underlying causes. A medical history may reveal conditions such as diabetes which could have a bearing on the case. During the initial physical examination, your doctor will pay attention to your pulse and blood pressure. If he or she suspects atherosclerosis, further testing will typically involve:

  • Blood tests to check serum cholesterol and serum glucose levels.
  • Ultrasound.
  • Angiogram.
  • Electrocardiogram.
  • Stress test.
  • If, for instance, symptoms of transient ischemic attacks or kidney disease are apparent, specific tests will be recommended accordingly.

Treatment and prevention

Medicines and lifestyle changes cannot cause the plaques to dissolve or disappear completely. But these can help prevent their further growth. A heart-healthy diet followed by exercise and no indulgence in alcohol and tobacco consumption is critical to a positive outlook.  The doctor will prescribe you medications that will help in controlling your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. In case the obstruction due to the plaque is too much, invasive surgical procedures might be required for angiography and stenting, or even a cardiac bypass.

The onset of atherosclerosis is not restricted to the aging population only. 17% of teenagers were found to show early symptoms of atherosclerosis. Thus, it is important to keep a check on diet and overall body weight as a means to prevent early onset of atherosclerosis.  Teenagers who are obese or overweight should be made to switch to more healthy lifestyle and dietary options. People, irrespective of their age and gender should involve in regular exercise routines.

Atherosclerosis Home Remedies

Even though atherosclerosis is considered to be a condition that mostly affects the aging population, recent studies have shown that 17% of teenagers (in developed nations) show symptoms of early onset of atherosclerosis. Thus it’s important to have heart-healthy diet and lifestyle habits to prevent atherosclerosis. There are several home remedies that can help mitigate the risk of this condition and even manage the symptoms. These include:

  • Have a healthy consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. These are great for keeping your heart healthy and remove the build-up of plaque in the arteries. Omega-3 fats are found abundantly in fish and seafood (salmon, tuna, and sardines), nuts and seeds (walnuts, chia seeds), and plant-based fats (flaxseed oil and soybean oil).
  • Spinach is great for lowering high blood pressure and reducing the formation of plaque in the arteries.
  • Potassium is a key mineral that prevents vascular calcification (the build-up of plaque) in the smooth muscles. Thus, foods rich in potassium can cut down the risk of atherosclerosis. These foods are bananas, apricot, potassium, broccoli, mushrooms, peas, and cucumbers.
  • Garlic is a well-known natural remedy that reduces the “stickiness” of blood and thus prevents atherosclerosis. It also removes the existing plaque build-up in the arteries thus gradually treating the condition.
  • Curcumin, the chemical found in turmeric is known to have anti-inflammatory properties and may also help in unclogging arteries.
  • Antioxidants such as those present in green tea can reverse the oxidative stress on the body and help in preventing arterial plaque build-up.

TL;DR?

Display this infographic on your website

 

Dos and Don'ts

Dos
  • If you have been diagnosed with atherosclerosis, it is strictly advised to stay away from tobacco and alcohol consumption.
  • Try to maintain a healthy BMI.
  • Lower your stress levels and weight by exercising routinely.
Don'ts
  • Let your children become overweight or obese. The process of atherosclerosis is a slow and gradual process that begins during early years.
  • Miss out on the medicine doses as prescribed by your doctor.
  • Assume that medicines are more than enough to treat the condition. A complete lifestyle change is required to beat atherosclerosis.

 

 

 

Related Conditions

Trending Topics

rubella IgG test
Rubella IgG Test The rubella IgG test is a blood test that checks for the rubella virus IgG antibodies present in…
random blood sugar test
Random Blood Sugar Test The random blood sugar or RBS test is prescribed mainly to check the level of sugar or glucose…
RHEUMATOID_FACTOR_(RF)
Rheumatoid Factor (RF) Rheumatoid factor or RF is a blood test used to diagnose painful joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis…
dengue-test
Dengue NS1 test Dengue NS1 is a blood test used to determine the onset of dengue fever. Dengue fever is transmitted…
Congestive Heart Failure ekg
EKG – Electrocardiogram An electrocardiogram, abbreviated as an ECG or an EKG, measures the electrical activity in the heart and used…
The real reason why you shouldn’t be eating ramen noodles Instant ramen noodles might be your go-to snack for your hunger pangs. But with each spoonful you are…
TPAB test
Treponema Pallidum Antibody(TPAB) test Treponema pallidum bacteria a gram-negative bacteria that has helically coiled, corkscrew-shaped cells, responsible for STDs such as syphilis.
serum electrolyte test
Serum Electrolyte If there is an electrolyte imbalance in the body, a serum electrolyte test will help to find out…
anti-thyroglobulin antibody
Anti-Thyroglobulin Antibody test Anti-thyrogloubin antibody test measures the level of antibodies that attack the thyroid gland cells and are hence indicative…
lipid-profile
Lipid Profile Lipid profile is a blood test that provides complete information on how much cholesterol is present in the…
Lectin: The common link of proteins between peas and people Lectins are a type of protein that are found majorly in legumes. Most people are find it easy…
thyroglobulin test
Thyroglobulin (TG) Test Thyroglobulin test helps in measuring and monitoring the concentration of thyroglobulin. This test can be used as a…
abdominal-CT-scan- image
Abdominal CT scan Abdominal CT scan is a diagnostic imaging technique that provides a clear picture of the state of internal…
bilirubin-test-result
Bilirubin Test Bilirubin is a substance produced in the body as a result of red blood cell breakdown. A bilirubin…
diabetes symptoms in women
FBS Test – Fasting Blood Sugar FBS or fasting blood sugar test is a blood test that is used to determine the level of…
Ferritin blood test
Ferritin Test Ferritin test is a blood test that provides vital information on the level of RBCs and iron in…
How do neutrophils protect you from fatal bacterial attacks? During an infection, certain enzymes alert the mature neutrophils.  Neutrophils then travel through the bloodstream to the affected…
serum zinc test
Serum Zinc Test The serum zinc test is a blood test performed to assess the zinc level in the blood (serum)…
TBHQ: A carcinogen lingering in your child’s favorite snacks TBHQ - Why you should shun the practice of eating instant noodles or microwave popcorn to get rid…
cardiolipin antibody igm
Cardiolipin Antibody (ACL) –IgM Test This particular test measures the level of IgM type antibodies in the blood by using the ELISHA test…
Maltitol: Things you must know about this artificial sweetener Sugar alcohols are produced by fruits and vegetables. Maltitol is an artificially produced sugar alcohol and is used…
Pulmonary Function Tests Pulmonary function tests (PFT’s) are non-invasive breathing tests employed for diagnosing and monitoring lung diseases such as bronchitis
passion fruit juice
Passion fruit: How one exotic fruit can help you fight infections and cancer! Passion fruit: Why does this exotic fruit have such an enticing name? And how can it protect you…
Eustachian Tube : Functions and top home remedies to prevent its infection Pressure equalization, mucus drainage and protecting the middle ear from bacteria and viruses are the three important functions…
Free T3 test
Free Triiodothyronine (FT3) Test The free triiodothyronine or FT3 test is an important blood test that is used to detect the level…
HELICOBACTER_PYLORI---IgG
Helicobacter Pylori – IgG Test Helicobacter pylori IgG test is a blood, saliva, and urine test performed to determine if the patien is…
POSTPRANDIAL-BLOOD-SUGAR
Post-Prandial Blood Sugar Postprandial blood sugar test is an important diabetes diagnosing tool. This simple blood test measure the level of…
EMA antibodies
Endomysial Antibodies (EMA) Test EMA test is an investigative blood examination to locate the presence of certain antibodies, called Endomysial antibodies or…
smelling-salts-benefits
The actual science behind smelling salts and how it helps in injury recovery Most smelling salts are a mixture of ammonium carbonate and some perfumes which are sniffed by an individual…
autoimmune diseases facts
Autoimmune Diseases: Find out if your body is attacking you right now Did you know your body can harm itself? What are autoimmune diseases and why does it harm some…
occupational hazards types
Occupational Hazards: How to vouch for your health at your workplace Occupational hazards affect millions worldwide. Chemical spills, faulty wires, deadly pathogen, and work-stress can happen anytime. Follow these…
lifestyle diseases
The Big 5 lifestyle diseases: How your everyday living might be killing you You'd be shocked to know how unhealthy and potentially fatal your everyday routine could be. Has the modern…
erythropoetin test
Erythropoietin (EPO) Test Erythropoietin stimulates the production of RBCs in bone marrow. An erythropoietin test is done to diagnose blood disorders…
beta 2 glycoprotein 1 IgG
Beta 2 Glycoprotein 1 IgG Beta 2 glycoprotein 1 antibody test involves detecting and measuring the presence of the IgG class of beta…
cytomegalovirus iGG
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)- IgG Test The cytomegalovirus IgG is the immunoglobulin protein produced by our immune system when the body is infected by…
lp-pla2
LP-PLA2 Test The LP-PLA2 test is a test which is carried out to assess the levels of Lipoprotein-Associated Phospholipase A2…
Ventricular diseases heart
Minimally Invasive Heart Surgery Minimally invasive heart surgery is a procedure that involves small incisions in the chest between the ribs to…
DHEAS test
DHEA Sulfate (DHEAS) Test DHEAS or DHEA Sulfate test is prescribed if an individual shows symptoms of abnormal adrenal actvity such as…
Tachycardia heart
Cardiac Profile Cardiac profile is panel of blood tests performed to check cholesterol level and other heart disease markers to…
17 OH Progesterone test The 17 OH progesterone test is a simple blood test that is mainly used to diagnose the cause…
low fodmap plan
Troubled with IBS? Here’s a complete roadmap to the low FODMAP diet Leaky & inflammatory gut troubling you? No medicine bringing you relief from the pain? Why not try the…
Surgery or home-remedy; what is the right way to treat a burn The treatment of a burn injury depends on its severity. You can save a life by offering the…
Top 6 remedies to treat a razor burn at home Symptoms of razor burn include bumps on the skin, redness, and irritation of the skin. Find easy and…
hepatitis B envelope antigen
Hepatitis B Envelope Antigen (HBeAg) The HBeAg or hepatitis B envelope antigen test is a screening test used to diagnose the onset of…
C-Reactive Protein Test A CRP or c-reactive protein blood test is an important diagnostic tool used to determine the risk of…
hsv igg test
Herpes Simplex Virus I (HSV)-IgG Test Herpes Simplex Virus I (HSV)-IgG is used to detect the presence of the herpes virus so that the…
Chromium Picolinate: An essential mineral supplement for faster weight loss Did you know that about 1.6 million deaths were directly linked to diabetes globally? How is it linked…
Squid-ink-spaghetti
Squid Ink: A unique food coloring and flavoring agent Want to add a unique black color to your pasta, noodles and ice-creams? How can you use squid…
Squid-ink-spaghetti
Squid Ink: A unique food coloring and flavoring agent Want to add a unique black color to your pasta, noodles and ice-creams? How can you use squid…
Squid-ink-spaghetti
Squid Ink: A unique food coloring and flavoring agent Want to add a unique black color to your pasta, noodles and ice-creams? How can you use squid…
maltodextrin sugar
Maltodextrin: What are the hidden health benefits of this food additive? Maltodextrin is one of the few food additives that has been relatively deemed safe. Many experts now have…
Cystoscopy Cystoscopy is intended to look at the abnormalities in the ureters, bladder, and urethra, to assist surgeries performed…
ANTI-MICROSOMAL-ANTIBODY-(AMA)
Anti-Microsomal Antibody AMA Test AMA or anti-microsomal antibody test is a blood test that measures the activity of AMA in the body…
Helicobacter pylori IGA
Helicobacter Pylori – IgA Test The H.pylori IgA test is a blood test used to identify the level of IgA antigen in the…
IGE test
IgE test – Immunoglobulin E IgE or immunoglobulin E test is a test that measures the level of IgE in the blood and…
Silicon Dioxide: How can a component of sand be essential to your wellbeing? Silicon is one of the most abundant elements in the nature. Find out how silicon dioxide can prove…
beautiful smiling woman enjoying high fiber energy bar with roughage
The importance of roughage in diet Eat these high fiber foods to increase your dietary roughage. Quick tips to boost daily roughage consumption. Check…
antinuclear antibody test
Antinuclear Antibody Test – (ANA) Antinuclear antibody or ANA test is a blood test that measures the level of ANA antibodies that are…
EEG
Electroencephalogram – EEG EEG or electroencephalogram is a diagnostic tool used to access the functioning of neurons and brain activity to…
hlab27 test
HLA-B27 test The HLA-B27 is a blood test that is used to determine the level of a particular protein called…
thyroid_scan
Thyroid Scan Thyroid scan is a diagnostic procedure that aims to view the thyroid gland and detect any growths or…
immunoglobulin M
Immunoglobulin M Test Immunoglobulin M is the largest and the first produced antibody which helps in the prevention or fighting of…
CT-scan-machine
CT – Computed Tomography Scan CT scan or computed tomography scan is an diagnostic imaging technique where cross-sectional images of body are obtained…
Isagenix diet weight loss
How are BMI and BMR different and what do these numbers mean? BMI and BMR are two important metrics that provide a clear picture of your body's metabolism and also…
urinary microalbumin test
Urinary Microalbumin Test The urine microalbumin test is a urine test that measures the level of microalbumin or protein in the…
Cayenne: The remarkable benefits of these red hot chili peppers These may make you rush for a glass of water, but cayenne pepper is actually a healthy additive…
arterial-blood-gas
Arterial Blood Gas Analysis Arterial blood gas analysis is a diagnostic procedure used to determine the volume of oxygen and carbon dioxide…
How accurate is the hair follicle drug test? Hair follicle drug test is one of the best ways to identify drug use in professional circles. But…
Inversion Therapy: The anti-gravity way of healing chronic back pain Inversion therapy involves suspending a person upside dow using different types of equipment. This works by taking the…
Stye : The best natural home remedies to ease the pain Styes developing inside the eyelid tend to be more painful whereas external styes are less painful and ooze…
lipase test
Lipase Test A lipase test is a blood test performed to quantitatively measure the level of the enzyme lipase in…
Hysteroscopy_procedure
Hysteroscopy Hysteroscopy is a minimally invasive tool to help specialists view the uterus to diagnose and even treat several…
HSV-IgM test
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)-IgM Test The HSV-IgM class antibody is produced by the body a few days after an initial HSV infection and…
Piaget stages: Do they accurately describe the way the human brain develops?  A common assumption was that children are less competent thinkers as compared to adults, but this was refuted…
Bubble Tea: Bubbling with nutrition or a hidden sugar mine? The tapioca pearls present in the tea looks like bubbles and hence the name bubble tea became popular.…
What to eat, what not to eat in the South Beach Diet? The South Beach Diet is one among the most popular weight loss programs that have been the talk…
Panera bread steak arugula
Panera Bread: The truth behind this “healthy” restaurant chain What to order and what to avoid when dining at Panera Bread ? Know more about this popular…
AUTOIMMUNE HEPATITIS liver
Hepatitis Profile A hepatitis profile or a hepatitis panel is a blood test that checks for markers of hepatitis infection…
Is bronchitis contagious? And how to prevent this infection? It is acute bronchitis that is contagious which means you can contract it from another person or you…
Hymenoplasty
Hymenoplasty Read on to find out all about hymenoplasty, the procedure, post-surgery care, the risks, and the benefits.
sodium blood test
Blood Sodium Test A blood sodium test measures the amount of sodium (an important electrolyte) in your body. It is also…
Poop chart: Top things you didn’t you your poop could reveal about you Bristol poop chart was designed during the 1990s in order to help doctors identify various types of poops…
How can Kegels help you overcome weak pelvic muscles & incontinence? Kegel exercises are pelvic floor strengthening exercises that can help you overcome incontinence issues that rise out of…
glucose-tolerance
Oral Glucose Tolerance Test – GTT Glucose tolerance test (or Oral GTT) is used to detect the onset of diabetes or prediabetes conditions. It…
BoneMarrow-Biopsy
Bone Marrow Transplant A bone marrow transplant is a major procedure where healthy blood-forming stem cells are induced to replaced a…
ANEURYSM angioplasty
Aortic Aneurysm Surgery Aortic aneurysm surgery is a procedure to treat aneurysm, a bulge in part(s) of your aorta.
Heart Transplant A heart transplant is a surgical procedure performed on patients who has undergone end-stage heart failure where other…
Heart Transplant A heart transplant is a surgical procedure performed on patients who has undergone end-stage heart failure where other…
Dragon Fruit – Blessing from Nature’s Basket Dragon fruit is packed with nutrients but low on calories. It is the dream food that can help…
Experts reveal the safest ways to perform an enema at home The idea of pushing some up your rectal area might make you queasy but an enema could actually…
hidden causes obesity
8 hidden causes of obesity you probably didn’t know! Did you know that around 2 billion people worldwide are either overweight or obese? Are you too a…
Jackfruit: Slice your way into higher immunity, better digestion, & more… Native to the South East Asia, the jackfruit is a fruit brimming with thousands of health benefits. Discover…
CEA_test
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test CEA or carcinoembryonic test detects the presence of CEA antigen in your blood mainly & determines the effectiveness…
Jicama: A fiber-rich tuber for your weight loss goals Pronouced as HEE-kah-ma, Jicama is the "new kid on the block" that has taken the world by the…
GM Diet: The fastest way to lose weight or yet another hoax diet? General Motors started this trend of extreme dieting for 7 straight days to ensure its employees were able…
How to correctly perform nasal irrigation using a Neti Pot? Neti pot has been a part of Ayurveda since centuries. This ancient tool is extremely effective in treating…
Anti-CCP Test – Anti-Cyclic Citrullinated Peptide Anti-ccp or ACCP test is a blood test that is primarily employed to diagnose the onset of rheumatoid…
Water Fasting: What are the pros and cons of this practice? Fasting is defined as a procedure that involves the restriction of food intake. This practice has been widely…
Coconut sugar: What is it and is it healthier than table sugar? In the long list of things that the wonderful coconut gives us, coconut sugar is another remarkable addition.…
11 unbelievable health benefits of thyme you didn’t know! Thyme is a herb that has been used in alternative medicine.It is a well known seasoning in the…
amylase test
Amylase Test Amylase test is done by checking the level of this protein in the blood sample and also in…
ASTtest-liver
AST- Aspartate Aminotransferase Test AST test is a blood test that is used to measure the level of a particular liver enzyme…
lymphoma chemotherapy
Chemotherapy Chemotherapy is a common treatment for treating and curing cancer patients. It uses chemicals to destroy cancer-growing cells.
diverticulitis diet
Diverticulitis diet: The right way to eat if you suffer from the disease Are you suffering from diverticultis but clueless about your diet ? Read this complete plan for diverticulitis diet…
Urologist: When should you visit one and why? A urologist can treat not only genitourinary problems of both men and women but also can treat various…
anoscopy
Anoscopy Anoscopy is an invasive diagnostic procedure where a small device known as anoscope will be inserted in the…
The right way to prepare Alfalfa sprouts at home Alfalfa or lusan ghas is not just a nutritious animal fodder. This flavonoid-rich herb has some amazing health…
blood ketone test
Blood Ketone (D3HB) Test The Blood Ketone Test measures and monitors the levels of ketone in the blood which is usually performed…
Moringa drink
Moringa: This could be the most nutrient-dense food known to us! Moringa is a lush green tree brimming with over 90 essential nutrients required for a healthy mind and…
ureteroscopy
Ureteroscopy Ureteroscopy is the diagnostic procedure which is used for the detection of the kidney stones in addition to…
shiitake mushrooms healthy
What are Shiitake Mushrooms and why should you eat them? Shiitake Mushrooms are well known for their smoky and robust taste. However, did you know they are replete…
tonometry
Tonometry Tonometry uses a device called tonometer to measure the pressure inside the eye. This pressure is depends upon…
fructosamine test
Fructosamine Test A fructosamine test measures blood sugar glucose content. Fructosamine level can indicate blood sugar level in past 2-3…
dhea adrenal
Androstenedione Test Androstenedione is produced by the adrenal gland, the test of the levels of Androstenedione helps in the evaluation…
free psa test
Free PSA Test The free PSA test is used to detect the level or percentage of free PSA in the body…
copper serum test
Copper Serum Test Copper serum test checks for abnormal levels of copper in the body. Both high and low levels of…
leptospira Igm test
Leptospira-IgM Test A Leptospira-IgM test is a blood test which is carried out to detect anti-Leptospira IgM antibody. Leptospirosis is…
CBC blood test
CBC (Hemogram 6-part diff) blood test CBC (Hemogram 6-part diff) blood test refers to the test that measures the number of RBCs, WBCs, etc…
The Cabbage Soup Diet: The healthiest way to instant weight loss Cabbage soup diet rapid weight loss diet for those who want to shed those extra pounds in less…
cystatin C
Cystatin C Test Cystatin C is a specific single-chain protein that is found in body fluids and is a biomarker for…
Barium-enema
Barium Enema Barium enema is also known as colon x-ray. Here, the patient is asked to consume small amount of…
phenytoin test
Phenytoin test Phenytoin is a drug that is administered mainly to epilepsy patients. The phenytoin blood test measures the level…
Rubella IgM test
Rubella IgM Test The Rubella IgM test is a blood test that is performed to diagnose the presence of the rubella…
Is it possible to achieve full body detox with Master Cleanse? Master cleanse is a diet consisting of a lemonade based beverage, a salt water drink and a herbal…
complement c4 test
Anemia Profile Anemia Profile test (Basic) is a blood screening test that measures the levels of important components of the…
Cottage cheese: What can you find in this healthy chunk of fresh milk cheese? Love cheese but scared of putting on extra pounds? With cottage cheese, you can get the best of…
cancer-389921_1280
Radiation Therapy Radiation therapy or radiotherapy is used to treat cancer. The treatment includes high doses of radiation to destroy…
Miracle extract from the root of maca: 10 ways it can help you! Maca root has been used for years in herbal medicine. Today scientific research is unearthing fresh evidence in…
Oxalates: How healthy greens can sometimes be bad news for your kidneys Oxalates are compounds present in a majority of healthy foods. However, at times an overconsumption of these could…
Diabetes blood test
Diabetic Profile The diabetic profile is a set of tests used for testing and monitoring the various kinds of Diabetes…
black seed oil benefits
Black Seed Oil: What secret benefits could it bestow on your health? Black seeds or nigella seeds are tiny packets of health brimming with amazing benefits. Find out why should…
dance health benefits
5 unbelievable effects of dance on your overall health! You enjoy dancing, but did you know what else it does to your body? Dancing is not only…
woman with abdominal pain holding ovulation calendar
Ovulation – facts to know about ovulation Learn how and when ovulation occurs, demystify common misconceptions, identify symptoms, methods of detection and right period for…
GGt test
GGT – Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Test GGT or gammaglutamyl transferase test is a liver function test that is used to detect the extent of…
dandelion weight loss
Caralluma Fimbriata: How to eat this cactus to lose weight Caralluma fimbriata is a miracle cactus that can be safely consumed by most for losing weight and boosting…
beta 2 glycoprotein 1 igm
Beta 2 Glycoprotein 1 IgM The Beta 2 glycoprotein 1 IgM test detects IgM class of antibodies in the blood.The presence of beta-2…
eating disorder anorexia
Eating Disorders: Lifestyle choice or a psychological condition? Is eating disorder just a harmless bad habit? Or does it represent grim psychological disorders? Do you want…
apolipoprotein a1 test
Apolipoprotein -A1 (APO-A1) Test Apolipoprotein A-I (Apo-A1) constitutes 70% of protein content in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and helps in lipid metabolism.
Ovarian cyst diagnosis and treatment
Ovarian cysts Know everything about ovarian cysts, its causes, types, diagnosis and treatment options such as home remedies and surgical…
Ovarian cyst diagnosis and treatment
Ovarian cysts Know everything about ovarian cysts, its causes, types, diagnosis and treatment options such as home remedies and surgical…
Heart diseases patient
Heart Valve Surgery A heart valve surgery is a procedure to replace or repair the diseased heart valves. The most commonly…
Coffee Enema: Turn your favorite morning beverage into a powerful colon cleanser The wonders of coffee are not just limited to waking you up every morning. You can now use…
Oxidative Stress: Understanding the most lethal phenomenon happening in your body right now Free radicals cause damage to the body, which is known as oxidation.  The amount of oxidation caused by…
Shilajit: A miracle Himalayan herb for an active and happy life The Himalayas contain more wonders than you thought. Shilajit is a miracle herb that is widely used in…
Anhedonia: Does the chronic inability to feel joy affect you too? How often do you feel dragged down by an invisible force? Do you feel an inexplicable emotional numbness…
biopsy procedure
Biopsy Biopsy is a procedure of studying a live tissue sample collected from a specific organ for diagnosing a…
Mood swings
The real reasons for your mood swings and how to overcome them Are you prone to heated moods frequently? Do you also feel bouts of depressive feeling creeping up on…
Green, brown, & bitter: The instant advantages of including fenugreek in your diet Did you know the earliest usage of fenugreek can be traced back to the Egyptian civilization? Find out…
Kava: Is it the healthy substitute for alcohol you have been waiting for? Native to the beautiful South Pacific islands, Kava is a famous beverage rooted in the local culture. It…
Okra: How can this nutrient-dense vegetable help you fight diabetes? Okra is a food which is rich in nutrients and minerals which are extremely essential for a healthy…
How can berberine supplements help you live longer and healthier? Berberine is a turmeric look-alike herbal extract that is credited with numerous health benefits ranging from diabetes cure…
Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) test Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is an enzyme that is found in every cell of the body and it plays…
stress depressed anxiety
Are you depressed or just stressed? Know when to see a doctor Why are some people more anxious than others? Is being depressed the same as feeling sad? Have you…
rosacea-treatment--before-_-after
The best and safest ways to treat rosacea Rosacea is a skin disease that is characterized by reddish hives and rashes on the face. Read more…
General adaptation syndrome: Understanding stress, one step at a time The struggle of the body to produce hormones during a stressful situation is the main theme of general…
Thyroid disorders
Thyroid Profile Thyroid profile is a panel of blood tests performed to check if an individual is suffering from any…
APL IgM Test
Antiphospholipid Antibody(APL)-IgM test The antiphospholipid antibodies are specific protein in the body directed against the phospholipids. It is used to detect…
alcohol toxic
7 startling facts that will make you quit alcohol today Does drinking really make you friendly and happy? How many calories does a can of cold beer add…
helping friend with depression
Support and care tips for helping people with depression Read to find out what is depression, its causes and symptoms. Also check out the steps describing how…
Blood Disorders cancer
Immunotherapy immunotherapy is a treatment that boosts the body's immune system to identify the cancer cells and fight cancer.
Lung cancer xray
Lobectomy Lobectomy is a surgery where a lobe of the diseased lung is removed. It is mainly done to…
heartfail_2
Open Heart Surgery An open heart surgery is a major procedure performed to treat heart diseases like congenital heart problem, heart…
DHEA wrinkles
DHEA: Now get unbelievable age defiance with this wonder hormone! DHEA is known popularly as the age-defying hormone. This supplement is widely used to slow down aging and…
BRAT Diet: What is the right way to follow this diarrhea-relieving diet? BRAT diet, a simple diet consisting of just bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast, can help you combat the…
lipoprotein A
Lipoprotein (A) Test Lipoprotein (A) test is used to measure and monitor the levels of LDL(Low-Density Lipoprotein) in the bloodstream in…
Tart Cherry: The healthiest excuse for taking that second serving of pie Tart cherry has been traditionally used in delectable desserts such as pies. Recent studies have revealed that its…
Vitamin K2: 8 reasons why you need this bone-building & cancer-fighting nutrient Vitamin K2 is claimed to be essential for your bone health, for reducing the risk of cancer, and…
Jack in the box fast food
Jack In the Box : The perils of surging fast food culture in the USA Jack in the Box - How a culture of fast-food can clog your arteries, weaken your heart, fatten…
anti ds dna test
Anti Ds-DNA antibody Test The  Anti Ds-DNA antibody test is used to diagnose the disease called lupus or more aptly the SLE(Systematic…
Ca 19.9 test
CA19.9 Test CA 19.9 is a cancer antigen that exists on the surface of cancer-causing cells. The levels of CA…
Vagus nerve: 7 health benefits of stimulating the “gut-brain” connection As a matter of fact, there are two vagus nerves namely the left and the right but is…
Chest X-Ray A chest x-ray is a diagnostic test that uses x-rays to visualize the structures inside your chest. It…
CLA: A breakthrough weight loss supplement with minimal side effects Tried every weight loss supplement in the market with no substantial gain? Why not try CLA supplements, derived…
HSV-1_IGG
Herpes Simplex Virus I (HSV)-IgG Test Herpes simplex virus I(HSV)-IgG is an Immunoglobulin protein that acts as an antibody & stays in the blood…
What is Qigong and how can it help you channelize you inner “Qi”? Qigong is an integrated way of performing a traditional exercise regimen that can help in promoting health, mental…
Tissue Transglutaminase Antibody (tTG) Test Transglutaminase is an enzyme present in our body and is involved in protein metabolism. A tTg test is…
6 arguments in favour of glucosamine and where can you find it Studies have shown that glucosamine works by preventing the breakdown of cartilage of the joints. This is usually…
xylitol gum
Xylitol : Is this the right sugar substitute for you? Discovered during World War 2 owing to sugar shortage, xylitol has become a common name in pharamaceutical industry.…
Cordyceps: How the Caterpillar fungus works as a proven cancer-shield Strange as it may sound, but cordyceps or "caterpillar fungus", a fungus variety native to the Himalayas may…
Bronchoscopy procedure
Bronchoscopy Bronchoscopy is a procedure where in a scope is inserted into the lung pathway to observe any growth…
Hydroquinone: Is it the best topical treatment for hyperpigmentation? Darkening of the skin due to high melanin levels is called hyperpigmentation.  Hydroquinone interferes with melanin production thus treating…
SIBO Diet: The important dos and don’ts of this gut-healing diet A SIBO diet is a diet that works by eliminating certain sugars from your diet and adding fibers…
Milk Thistle skin
Milk Thistle: Find possible cures for fatal diseases in these purple blooms Milk thistle is well-known for treating liver conditions. However, did you know that it comes with a plethora…
Tamarind: The top health benefits of this staple Asian ingredient Did you know this sweet and sour pulpy fruit does more than just add a tangy flavor to…
Hibiscus: Nourish your beauty and health with these vibrant blooms Hibiscus is a trumpet shaped flower found abundantly in tropical countries. It has been historically used for its…
Erythritol: A healthy sugar substitute or yet another marketing ploy? Erythritol is a popular choice of a healthy alternative sweetening agent in foods. But how healthy can a…
Trisodium Phosphate: How a paint thinner made its way into your breakfast Ever thought how toxic chemicals find their way into our foods? How can they harm our body? And…
folate test
Folate test The Folate test measures and monitors the levels of folic acid in the blood. This test is also…
Alp enzyme-test
ALP test – Alkaline Phosphate ALP or alkaline phosphate is an enzyme mainly produced by the liver and gallbladder. ALP test measures the…
iron deficiency profile
Iron Deficiency Profile An iron deficiency profile is a battery of blood tests which are performed in order to determine the…
antiHEV IgM test
Anti hepatitis E virus (Anti HEV) IgM Test Anti HEV IgM test determines the level of the IgM antibodies in the blood, The disease is often…
sodium chloride
Halotherapy: How inhaling salt can work wonders for your body Halotherapy is quickly gaining popularity amongst those with respiratory diseases. It has shown promise in its treatment.
Love tea, hate tannins? Rooibos tea is just what you need The market is brimming with a multitude of herbal teas. But what makes rooibos tea (or red bush)…

Related Conditions

Want to live a healthy lifestyle?

Subscribe to free FactDr newsletters.

REVAMP YOUR

LIFE

HEALTH

WELLNESS

If you're enjoying our website, we promise you'll absolutely love our new posts. Be the first one to get a copy!

Get factually correct, actionable tips delivered straight to your inbox once a week.

I want the latest scoop on :

We hate spam too. We will never share your email address with anyone. If you change your mind later, you can unsubscribe with just one click

By clicking Subscribe, I agree to the FactDr Terms & Conditions & Privacy Policy and understand that I may opt out of FactDr subscriptions at any time.

Worried about your health?
Don't worry. Just consult a doctor now to get quick answers to your questions.

Consult a doctor now