The Causes, Prevention, and Reversal of Muscle Atrophy

Loss of muscle bulk and strength is calledatrophy. In some ways, atrophy is the opposite of building up muscles. In contrast, atrophy may result from frailty and physical inactivity of muscles. PeopleImages / Getty Images Causes There are several causes of muscle atrophy. In addition to preventing atrophy, these activities can help you in several other ways. They help prevent bedsores that result from prolonged pressure on one part of the body....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 272 words · Lauren Saunders

The Cervix in Early Pregnancy

Position and Texture Changes to Anticipate Thecervixis the narrow end of theuterusthat connects to thevagina. The cervix changes throughout themenstrual cycleand duringpregnancy. Its location and texture also change as the body goes through hormonal shifts. Photo composite by Michela Buttignol for Verywell Health; Getty Images The cervix sits higher near the uterus during pregnancy and lower duringmenstruation. It usually feels firm, like unripened fruit, but softens during pregnancy. It is a circular band of muscle that can change its shape, texture, and position....

April 18, 2025 · 4 min · 741 words · Robert Perry

The Challenges of Weight Loss With Fibromyalgia

Losing weight withfibromyalgiais especially difficult due to several aspects of the condition. It’s not only difficult physically, but thanks tocognitive function (a.k.a. Possible ways to overcome this barrier may not be possible for everyone, due to lifestyle and financial realities. Zing Images / Getty Images (Most people with this condition experience at least some symptoms during remissions, but they’re milder.) When you’re trying to exercise regularly, the ups and downs are killers....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 265 words · Brian Johnson

The Chilling Effects of the Texas Anti-Trans Directive

The investigator sought medical records related to the child, but the family refused to voluntarily turn them over. The lawsuit also stated that other investigations are underway. State legislatures across the U.S. introduced more than 100 anti-trans bills in 2021,setting a grim record. Many of these bills target trans youth. The letter by Governor Abbott has no legal effect, she told Verywell. The Texas Department of Family and Protective Services cannot change the law or radically reinterpret it....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 158 words · James Jones

The Colon (Large Intestine): Function and Anatomy

The colon and rectum are about 2 meters (6.5 feet) long. The colon works alongside the stomach andsmall intestineto remove stool and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. Understanding how the colon works is the first step to keeping your colon healthy. Colon Cancer Colon cancer can occur in any section of the colon. Atortuous colonis one that is longer than normal. The colon must reabsorb water and electrolytes to form a stool....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 249 words · Sarah Spence PhD

The Complexity of Endometriosis Weight Gain

Indirect and Direct Causes of Weight Fluctuation From Endometriosis Its common for people withendometriosisto feel that they havegained weight. This may be due to water retention from bloating or other causes. This article will provide an overview of weight gain and endometriosis, including the causes and treatment options. Westend61 / Getty Images They then shed during your period (menses). When endometrial cells in other areas of the body swell and react to hormonal changes, bloating can occur....

April 18, 2025 · 4 min · 748 words · Hailey Nguyen

The Connection Between Annatto and Nut Allergies

However, some people withpeanut or nut sensitivitiesdo report having reactions to annatto. What Exactly Is Annatto? Annatto is found in many different types of food. Verywell / Zorica Lakonic​ It is a natural dye and food coloring, producing colors from bright yellow to deep orange. The U.S. Department of Agriculture classifiesBixa Orellanaas a “tree or shrub.” It’s also used in cosmetics. Annatto seed is used in South American dishes and may be known as “poor man’s saffron....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 267 words · Curtis Stewart

The Connection Between Genetics and Sleep Apnea

Millions of Americans havesleep apneaa chronic disorder that causes you to stop breathing in your sleep. Some studies estimate that nearly 75% of people with obstructive sleep apnea inherited the disorder in some way. no_limit_pictures / Getty What Is Sleep Apnea? no_limit_pictures / Getty Sleep apnea is a chronic condition where your breathing is interrupted as you sleep. These disruptions can last for 10 seconds or more, and occur several times an hour....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 300 words · Allison Allen

The Connection Between GERD and Anxiety

Reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus can cause heartburn and other symptoms. In the United States, it is estimated that about 20% of adults have GERD. Anxietyis a mental health condition characterized by worry that is disproportionate to the situation and limits daily functioning. Verywell / Michela Buttignol There are multiple types ofanxiety disorders. Sometimes, this sphincter does not operate properly, and stomach acid re-enters the esophagus. This in itself is not a diagnosable condition, and many people will experience this occasionally throughout their life....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 275 words · Craig Williams

The Connection Between Gluten and Sleep Problems

Can gluten cause problems with your sleep if you haveceliac diseaseor non-celiacgluten sensitivity? Other people seem to need more sleep than they’re getting … even if they’re getting plenty already. But other studies show that problems persist despite the gluten-free diet. Quiet Noise Creative / Getty Images In addition, none of the studies address problems with sleep faced by the non-celiac gluten-sensitive. It found considerably worse fatigue in people who had been diagnosed but had not started the diet....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 137 words · Mr. Darin Martinez

The Connection Between Lupus and Heart Disease

Read on to learn more about how lupus affects heart health. Consequently, CAD is often seen in people with lupus at a relatively young age. The increased risk of premature CAD with lupus is greatest in young women. SEBASTIAN KAULITZKI / Getty Images There seem to be two major reasons that lupus increases the risk of CAD. Lupus and Heart Valve Disease Lupus is associated with heart valve disease. In some cases,blood thinnersmay be recommended to reduce the risk of stroke....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 176 words · Kellie Martin

The Connection Between Migraines and Breast Cancer

This change in migraine frequency and severity may be related to your fluctuating estrogen levels at these times. However, this is controversial due to conflicting evidence. Several studies have suggested that NSAID use may, on its own, lower breast cancer risk. aldomurillo / Getty Images This study found a 17 percent lower risk of developing invasive hormone-receptor-positive cancers. Another study, this one published inCancer Causes and Controlin 2014, examined over 700 cases of breast cancer....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 139 words · Kevin Berry

The Connection Between Nasal Polyps and Sinus Infections

They hang down like grapes or teardrops singly or in clusters. If you are having frequent sinus infections, it may be a sign of nasal polyps. Also, polyps themselves can cause infections. LaylaBird / Getty Images This fluid allows bacteria to grow. Lingering symptoms for two or more weeks can indicate a bacterial infection. Still, symptoms are usually more severe in sinusitis due to long-term swelling of the mucous membranes....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 329 words · Jeffrey Sanchez