Random Facts

Today's Medical Fact

Every two weeks the human stomach produces a new layer of mucous lining, otherwise the stomach would digest itself.

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Skipped Heart Beats

Are they serious or just an
annoying symptom?

More on Palpitations
by Paul Nadler, MD
Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine
University of California San Francisco

Pain in the wrist?

Do you know the symptoms of
carpal tunnel syndrome?

More on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
by E. Gene Deune, MD
Johns Hopkins Department of Orthopedic Surgery

LASIK Eye Surgery

Are you considering LASIK surgery
to correct your vision?

More on LASIK Surgery

Memory Loss

Could your forgetfulness
be an early symptom of AD?

More on Alzheimer's Disease
by Bruce Miller, MD; Lara Heflin, PhD
UCSF Memory & Aging Center
University of California San Francisco

Obesity Virus

Obesity is a growing worldwide epidemic that is often blamed solely on an unhealthy diet and a sedentary lifestyle. That notion is being reconsidered, however, in light of new research. Recent findings show that some cases of obesity may actually be caused by a virus that can be caught much the same way as the common cold.

Scientists at Louisiana State University have found that the human adenovirus-36, known to cause respiratory and eye infections, can also transform adult stem cells found under the skin into fat cells and increase the fat content in humans. The findings suggest that the virus might contribute to the development of obesity in susceptible people.


Not all people infected with the virus will develop obesity and not all cases of obesity are caused by the virus, but the research does seem to indicate that in some people factors other than diet and exercise may play a part in being overweight. Experts still agree, however, that a healthy diet and an active lifestyle will help most people maintain a healthy weight.

Read more HealthJolt...

Laser Hair Removal

Laser Hair Removal

The FDA approved the first medical laser for hair removal in the mid 1990's. Since that time, the use of lasers for cosmetic hair removal has continued to grow in popularity. The technology has continued to improve as well, providing better results and safer treatments for people of more diverse skin and hair colors. At the onset, laser hair was only for people with dark hair and light skin. The new advancements have made it possible to treat people with darker skin, tanned skin, and blond, gray, or red hair.

Both men and women are searching for effective ways of removing unwanted hair. The most common form of hair removal is shaving, but it is a very temporary method. Many people have tried waxing, but it is painful and the results are temporary as well. Electrolysis is a permanent hair removal option, but it is painful, as well as time-consuming and expensive for large treatment areas. Laser hair removal has become a popular cosmetic procedure because it is able to treat large body areas relatively fast with a minimal amount of pain and long-lasting results.

Read more...

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