One of the most feared adverse health effects of civil aviation is the formation of blood clots in the deep veins of the lower limb, usually called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A part of the clot can break off and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing pulmonary embolism (PE) which is a serious … Read more
Dizziness is a term that is used to describe a feeling of wooziness, lightheadedness or being off balance. Sometimes it is also used to describe a spinning sensation or a sensation of movement although in such cases the term vertigo will fit better. Dizziness is a nonspecific symptom that often means different things to different … Read more
Most women will experience hot flashes when going through the menopause. In the USA, the term hot flashes is used to describe this phenomenon whereas in the UK the term hot flushes is used. Both mean the same thing. Hot flashes are also known as vasomotor symptoms. The term ‘vasomotor’ refers to the vasomotor center in … Read more
Bad breath, also called halitosis, is a widespread condition that can affect people of any age. Indeed, about 30% of people may have bad breath. It has been reported that Americans spend up to 3 billion dollars a year on gum, mints and breath fresheners, in most cases in order to improve their breath (1). … Read more
Coughing is a reflex action where the air is rapidly expelled from the lungs to clear excessive secretions, fluids, or foreign material from the airway. Therefore, cough is an important respiratory defense mechanism. However, coughing may also be a symptom of an underlying disease. Apart from the discomfort of coughing itself, excessive coughing can cause multisystem problems. For … Read more