Category: Health Predispositions

What are triglycerides? Triglycerides are a form of fat, or lipid. They are produced by the body when you consume more calories than are needed. The energy from these excess calories is stored inside cells in the form of triglycerides until it is needed. Triglycerides are measured with a blood test. Normal triglyceride levels are… Continue reading Triglycerides

What are kidney stones? Kidney stones are pebble-like masses that form in the kidneys. These stones form when there are high levels of certain minerals in the urine. People with small kidney stones may not experience any symptoms, but larger stones can get stuck in the urinary tract and cause pain or blood in the… Continue reading Kidney Stones

What is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease? Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, or NAFLD, is a condition characterized by the buildup of fat in the liver. For many people with NAFLD, this accumulation of fat does not cause serious liver damage. However, some people may have a more severe form of NAFLD called nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) where… Continue reading Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

What is gout? Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid in the joints. The blood produces uric acid when certain molecules and foods are broken down which is usually filtered out by the kidneys. But for people with gout, the body either produces too much uric acid or the… Continue reading Gout

What are uterine fibroids? Uterine fibroids are a relatively common type of non-cancerous growth in the uterus. They can vary in size, number, and location within the uterus. What are the symptoms of Uterine Fibroids?  Not all uterine fibroids cause symptoms, but some can cause heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pressure, or pain. In certain cases,… Continue reading Uterine Fibroids

What is restless legs syndrome? Restless legs syndrome, also called RLS or Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurological condition characterized by the uncontrollable urge to move the legs. Scientists believe reduced iron levels in the brain may play a role. Evidence also suggests RLS may be related to dopamine,  a chemical messenger in the brain that… Continue reading Restless Legs Syndrome & Genetics

What is obstructive sleep apnea? Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition where breathing stops and starts repeatedly during sleep. It occurs when tissues in the throat relax during sleep and block the airway.  Diagnosis of OSA is often defined as someone experiencing impaired breathing at least five times per hour of sleep along with… Continue reading Obstructive Sleep Apnea

What are migraine headaches? Migraine is a condition that causes moderate to severe headaches. Some people with migraine experience sensory disturbances, including flashes of lights and temporary blind spots before or during a migraine headache. Other symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, and extreme sensitivity to light and sound.  What are migraine triggers? For people who… Continue reading Migraine Headaches

What is LDL cholesterol? LDL (low-density lipoprotein) helps carry cholesterol from from your liver to other cells in your body.  The body needs cholesterol to build cells, make hormones, and carry out other tasks. But if there’s too much LDL cholesterol in the blood, it can build up on the walls of blood vessels. This… Continue reading LDL Cholesterol

What is high blood pressure? High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is when the blood puts too much pressure on the walls of the blood vessels. By putting stress on the blood vessels and heart, high blood pressure can increase the risk for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.  Is high blood pressure genetic?  Genetics… Continue reading High Blood Pressure