Sunspot symptoms Skin cancer symptoms Location Develops on sun-exposed areas like the face, scalp, shoulders, and hands Usually develops on sun-exposed areas like the face, scalp, shoulders, and hands, but can occur anywhere Flatness Flat to the skin May appear flat, raised, or like a lump Shape Round or oval-shaped Asymmetrical or changing shape with jagged…
Vitamin D is a nutrient necessary for immune and bone health, as well as overall well-being. You can get vitamin D through certain foods, supplements, and when the skin absorbs sunlight. Without enough vitamin D, you may experience fatigue (extreme tiredness), muscle cramps, and joint and back pain. Vitamin D deficiency is common and can raise…
Summer’s fast approaching, and some people still believe getting a “base tan” offers protection from sunburn. Dermatologists say not so fast—in fact, the idea of a base tan might be one of the most common (and dangerous) myths in skin care. Base tanning is the idea that a light tan can help protect your skin…
Allergies occur when your immune system overreacts to harmless substances, like pollen or pet dander. Allergies to substances like pollen commonly cause sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy eyes. Chronic symptoms of sneezing, nasal congestion, and coughing can sometimes lead to aches, particularly in related body areas. Body aches are not a direct result of…
Brushing alone isn’t enough to remove dental plaque from your teeth. Diligent teeth brushing only removes about 60% of the plaque. That’s why the American Dental Association (ADA) suggests flossing daily. Flossing helps you reach the remaining 40% of your teeth and get to the areas your toothbrush can’t reach. Flossing involves using a wax-coated…
Chia seeds benefits include promoting bone, gut, and cardiovascular health. While these seeds, of the Salvia hispanica L. plant, have only recently gained superfood status in the United States, they have been consumed for thousands of years in South and Central America. Chia seeds pack a serious nutritional punch. Best known for their high fiber…
Peanuts are a source of plant protein, which contains heart-healthy fats, and offer essential minerals like potassium and magnesium. Many commercial peanut butters contain sugars, hydrogenated oils, and preservatives to improve their texture and shelf life, but these additives can impact health. Added sugars can add up, and hydrogenated oils contribute to saturated fat intake—both should…
A rheumatoid factor (RF) test detects rheumatoid factor, a type of antibody (proteins that fight off harmful substances) in your blood. RF antibodies sometimes attack healthy cells and tissues, leading to autoimmune conditions. Rheumatoid factors are commonly used to diagnose rheumatoid arthritis but can also detect other conditions, such as Sjögren syndrome, lupus, hepatitis C,…
Hair grows out of pores, small openings in the skin that secrete sweat and sebum (oil). An ingrown hair cyst occurs when dirt or oil blocks off a pore, causing a hair to become trapped. This leads to swelling and looks like a small, red bump. If it becomes infected, an ingrown hair cyst may…
Symptoms of hypersomnia Symptoms of narcolepsy Excessive daytime sleepiness Yes Yes Sleep attacks No Yes Cataplexy No Yes Napping Daytime naps aren’t refreshing or restful Daytime naps are refreshing Nighttime sleep Sleeping 10-18 hours a day Fragmented sleep of only a few hours, frequent wakeups Sleep effects Sleep drunkenness (difficulty waking up and confusion, disorientation,…