Medical

Balanced Diet

2009-06-08T20:23:00.000-07:00

A balanced diet is one that includes the Recommended Dietary Allowances, also called RDAs, for all the essential nutrients. These include proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. A balanced diet supports normal growth and development. It also contributes to good health and quality of life.

What is the information for this topic?

All foods, when chosen wisely, can be part of a balanced diet. For example, some fat is needed in the diet to support life. But too much fat can increase the risk of heart disease. A balanced diet provides an adequate amount of calories, protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. A balanced diet avoids an excess of calories, saturated fats, cholesterol, sodium, and sugar.

In October 2000, the American Heart Association, or AHA, issued new dietary guidelines for the general population to help lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. The revised guidelines focus on food, overall eating pattern, and achieving or maintaining a healthy weight.

Achieve an overall healthy eating pattern.

Choose an overall balanced diet with foods from all major food groups, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, and grains.

Consume a variety of fruits and vegetables. Choose 5 or more servings per day.

Consume a variety of grain products, including whole grains. Choose 6 or more servings per day.

Include fat-free and low-fat dairy products, fish, legumes, skinless poultry, and lean meats.

Eat at least 2 servings of fish per week.

Achieve a healthy body weight.

Avoid excess intake of calories.

Maintain a level of physical activity that achieves fitness and balances energy expenditure with calorie intake. For weight reduction, calories burned should exceed calories consumed.

Limit foods that are high in calories or low in nutritional quality, including those with a high amount of added sugar.

Achieve a desirable cholesterol level.

Limit foods with a high content of saturated fat and cholesterol. Substitute grains and unsaturated fat from vegetables, fish, legumes, and nuts.

Limit cholesterol to 300 milligrams (mg) a day.

Limit trans fatty acids. Trans fatty acids are found in foods containing partially hydrogenated vegetable oils. These include packaged cookies, crackers, and other baked goods. Commercially prepared fried foods and some margarines are also high in trans fats.

Achieve a desirable blood pressure level.

Limit salt intake to less than 6 grams or 2,400 mg of sodium per day.

Maintain a healthy weight and emphasize vegetables, fruits, and dairy products low in fat when planning meals.

If you drink, limit alcohol consumption to no more than 1 drink per day for women and 2 drinks per day for men.

The food guide pyramid provides a quick reference for choosing a balanced diet on a daily basis.

Nutrition and Athletic Performance

2009-06-08T20:18:00.000-07:00

Alternate Names : Sports Nutrition

Nutrition, also called healthy eating, plays a key role in athletic performance.

Information

Healthy nutrition should be a part of every athlete's training program. Whether an athlete enjoys sports for fun or competition, he or she needs healthy nutrition. The body needs calories and nutrients to run a race or to take a walk.

Generally, sports can be divided into 2 categories.

short duration/high intensity, as in sprinting or weight lifting

long duration/lower intensity, as in sustained running or jogging

In reality, most sports alternate between the two.

Athletes need healthy amounts of calories, protein, and water. Minerals, electrolytes and antioxidants, which are substances that fight the effects of free radicals that can damage the body, are important, too.

Calories from carbohydrates are the quickest source of body fuel. Carbohydrates are easily broken down to sugar, also called glucose. Glucose circulates in blood and is taken up by cells that need energy. For active people, a steady intake of carbohydrates fuels the muscle cells. Carbohydrates also fuel the heart, nerves, and brain cells.

Glucose can be stored in the muscles and liver. This form of glucose is called glycogen (glie-kah-jen). When blood glucose levels start to fall, glycogen is changed to glucose, raising blood glucose levels. Well trained athletes who eat a high-carbohydrate diet can improve glycogen stores. This means more fuel for longer workouts. Commonly called "carbohydrate loading," this type of diet works by building glycogen stores.

Before a strenuous event, a high carbohydrate meal such as pasta, potatoes, or rice is recommended. Tomato sauce on the pasta and toppings on potatoes are OK. Just make sure that 70% to 80% of the calories for the meal should come from carbohydrates.

Strenuous workouts should be followed by a snack or meal of 100 to 200 grams of carbohydrates to replace the glycogen stores. For example, 1 cup of white rice and a few pieces of fruit add up to 100 grams of carbohydrate. In general, endurance athletes should build a diet based on the bottom of the Food Guide Pyramid. These are foods high in carbohydrates and include grains, breads, starchy vegetables, fruits, yogurt, and milk.

People involved in short-duration, high-intensity activities need carbohydrates, too. People in sports such as weight lifting tend to focus on protein. Protein helps with muscle growth, but carbohydrates fuel the body. Carbohydrates should make up about 55% to 65% of the total calories eaten.

Some athletes want to build muscle mass. To do so, protein intake should be between 1 to 2 grams per kilogram of body weight. For example, a 154-pound (70-kilogram) person can eat 70 to 114 grams of protein per day. Eating more protein than that taxes the kidneys and can be harmful. People who eat a lot of protein should also drink a lot of water. Water will help flush out the waste products from the breakdown of protein in the body, which helps to avoid any harmful effects.

Water is a key factor in ensuring an athlete's health. In addition to the 8 glasses a day that all healthy people need, athletes should drink 1 to 2 cups before working out or competing in an event. Endurance athletes need to drink 4 to 10 ounces every 15 to 20 minutes during training or competition. Water or sports beverages are OK. Drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol are not. This is because they are both diuretics that can lead to dehydration, which is a loss of body fluid.

Sports beverages are a good source of the electrolyte minerals potassium, sodium, and chloride. These drinks can help replace those key minerals in athletes who sweat a lot. However, simply eating a balanced diet will also provide plenty of electrolytes.

Iron is another key mineral for athletes. It helps carry oxygen in the blood. Female and/or vegetarian athletes should have their iron levels checked to screen for iron deficiency anemia.

Exercise causes oxidative stress, a type of stress caused by exposure to oxygen. Athletes may have a higher need for antioxidant nutrients. Athletes should make sure they get the recommended daily allowance for vitamins A, C , and E, as well as the mineral selenium.

		Next section
		Nutrition and Athletic Performance: Functions and Sources

Vasculitis

2009-06-08T19:45:00.000-07:00

Also called: Angiitis

Vasculitis is an inflammation of the blood vessels. It happens when the body's immune system attacks the blood vessel by mistake. The cause is often unknown. Vasculitis can affect arteries, veins and capillaries. Arteries are vessels that carry blood from the heart to the body's organs. Veins are the vessels that carry blood back to the heart. Capillaries are tiny blood vessels that connect the small arteries and veins.

When a blood vessel becomes inflamed, it can

Narrow, making it more difficult for blood to get through
Close off completely so that blood can't get through
Stretch and weaken so much that it bulges and may burst and cause dangerous bleeding inside the body

Symptoms of vasculitis can vary, but usually include fever, swelling and a general sense of feeling ill. The main goal of treatment is to stop the inflammation. Steroids and other medicines to stop inflammation are often helpful.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Start Here

Vasculitis(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Vasculitis(Patient Education Institute)
Also available in Spanish
Vasculitis Syndromes of the Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Diagnosis/Symptoms Treatment	Specific Conditions Related Issues	Tutorials
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Anatomy/Physiology Clinical Trials Journal Articles	Dictionaries/Glossaries Directories Organizations	Children

Overviews
- JAMA Patient Page: Vasculitis(American Medical Association)
  Also available in Spanish
- Vasculitis(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Vasculitis Center: Frequently Asked Questions(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
- Vasculitis Syndromes of the Central and Peripheral Nervous Systems(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- MR Angiography (MRA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Ultrasound - Vascular(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- What Is Vasculitis: Diagnosis(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
- What Is Vasculitis: Symptoms(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
Treatment
- Vasculitis Treatments(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
Specific Conditions
- Buerger's Disease(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Central Nervous System Vasculitis(Johns Hopkins University)
- Churg-Strauss Syndrome(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
- Cryoglobulinemia(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
- Microscopic Polyangiitis(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
- Polyarteritis Nodosa(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
- Rheumatoid Vasculitis(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
- Takayasu's Arteritis(Johns Hopkins University)
Return to top
Related Issues
- Immune System and Its Link to Rheumatic Diseases(American College of Rheumatology)
- Vascular Pain(Cleveland Clinic Foundation)
- Vasculitis(Lupus Foundation of America)
Return to top
Tutorials
- Vasculitis(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Anatomy/Physiology
- Atlas of the Body: The Circulatory System -- Arterial(American Medical Association)
- Atlas of the Body: The Circulatory System -- Venous(American Medical Association)
Return to top
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Vasculitis(National Institutes of Health)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
Return to top
Dictionaries/Glossaries
- What Is Vasculitis: Glossary of Terms(Johns Hopkins Vasculitis Center)
Return to top
Directories
- AVF Member Directory(American Venous Forum)
Return to top
Organizations
Return to top
Children
- Henoch-Schönlein Purpura(National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse)
- Kawasaki Disease(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Kawasaki Disease(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Return to top

Related Topics
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Vasculitis is the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases

Vascular Diseases

2009-06-08T19:41:00.000-07:00

The vascular system is the body's network of blood vessels. It includes the arteries, veins and capillaries that carry blood to and from the heart. Problems of the vascular system are common and can be serious. Arteries can become thick and stiff, a problem called arteriosclerosis. Blood clots can clog vessels and block blood flow to the heart or brain. Weakened blood vessels can burst, causing bleeding inside the body.

You are more likely to have vascular disease as you get older. Other factors that make vascular disease more likely include

Family history of vascular or heart diseases
Pregnancy
Illness or injury
Long periods of sitting or standing still
Any condition that affects the heart and blood vessels, such as diabetes or high cholesterol
Smoking
Obesity

Losing weight, eating healthy foods, being active and not smoking can help vascular disease. Other treatments include medicines and surgery.

Start Here

Heart Disease(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Latest News Diagnosis/Symptoms Treatment	Nutrition Specific Conditions Related Issues	Pictures & Photographs Tutorials
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Anatomy/Physiology Clinical Trials Genetics Journal Articles	Medical Encyclopedia Directories Organizations	Children

Latest News
- Drug Fails to Slow Progression of Atherosclerosis(03/17/2009, HealthDay)
- Migraines in Pregnancy Boost Vascular Risks(03/11/2009, HealthDay)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Angiogram(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Duplex Ultrasound(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- MR Angiography (MRA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Testing in the Noninvasive Vascular Laboratory(American Heart Association)
- Ultrasound - Vascular(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- What You Need to Know about Angiography(American Society of Radiologic Technologists) - Links to PDF
  Also available in Spanish
Treatment
- Aortobifemoral Bypass(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Catheter Embolization(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Endarterectomy(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Laser Vascular Lesion Treatment(Logical Images)
- MedlinePlus: Angioplasty(National Library of Medicine)
  Also available in Spanish
- Surgical Bypass(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Thrombolytic Therapy(Society for Vascular Surgery)
Nutrition
- Heart-Healthy Diet: 7 Steps to Prevent Heart Disease(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Return to top
Specific Conditions
- Arteriosclerosis/Atherosclerosis(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Arteriovenous Malformations and Other Vascular Lesions of the Central Nervous System(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  Also available in Spanish
- Atherosclerosis(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- Bruit: Is It a Sign of Something Serious?(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Cerebral Arteriosclerosis(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
- Cerebral Cavernous Malformation(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
- Chronic Venous Insufficiency(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Fibromuscular Dysplasia(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
- Klippel-Trenaunay Syndrome (KTS)(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
- Liver Hemangioma(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Mesenteric Ischemia(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Renovascular Conditions(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Renovascular Hypertension: What Is It?(Vascular Disease Foundation)
Return to top
Related Issues
- Diabetic Vascular Disease(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Vascular Birthmarks(American Academy of Dermatology)
- Vascular Disease and Erectile Dysfunction(Cleveland Clinic Foundation)
- Vascular Pain(Cleveland Clinic Foundation)
Return to top
Pictures & Photographs
- Cherry Hemangioma(Logical Images)
- Spider Angioma(Logical Images)
- Stasis Ulcer(Logical Images)
Return to top
Tutorials
- Aortobifemoral Bypass(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Anatomy/Physiology
- Atlas of the Body: The Circulatory System -- Arterial(American Medical Association)
- Atlas of the Body: The Circulatory System -- Venous(American Medical Association)
Return to top
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Arteriosclerosis(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Cardiovascular Diseases(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Hemangioma(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Nevus(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Vascular Diseases(National Institutes of Health)
Return to top
Genetics
- Genetics Home Reference: Hereditary angioedema(National Library of Medicine)
- Genetics Home Reference: Pseudoxanthoma elasticum(National Library of Medicine)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
Return to top
Medical Encyclopedia
- Vascular Diseases
Return to top
Directories
- AVF Member Directory(American Venous Forum)
- Find a Vascular Specialist(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Find an Accredited Echocardiography Laboratory or Vascular Laboratory(American Society of Echocardiography)
Return to top
Organizations
Return to top
Children
- Capillary Malformation(Children's Hospital Boston)
- Children's Vascular Health Activity Book(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Hemangioma(Children's Hospital Boston)
- Port Wine Stain(Logical Images)
- Salmon Patch(Logical Images)
- Strawberry Hemangioma(Logical Images)
Return to top

Related Topics
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Vascular Diseases is the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Languages
- Bosnian (Bosanski)
- Chinese - Simplified (简体中文)
- Chinese - Traditional (繁體中文)
- French (français)
- Hindi (हिन्दी)
- Japanese (日本語)
- Korean (한국어)
- Russian (Русский)
- Somali (af Soomaali)
- Spanish (español)
- Ukrainian (Українська)

Transient Ischemic Attack

2009-06-08T19:37:00.000-07:00

Transient Ischemic Attack

Also called: Mini-stroke, TIA

A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a stroke that comes and goes quickly. It happens when a blood clot blocks a blood vessel in your brain. This causes the blood supply to the brain to stop briefly. Symptoms of a TIA are like other stroke symptoms, but do not last as long. They happen suddenly, and include

Numbness or weakness, especially on one side of the body
Confusion or trouble speaking or understanding speech
Trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Loss of balance or coordination

Most symptoms of a TIA disappear within an hour, although they may last for up to 24 hours. Because you cannot tell if these symptoms are from a TIA or a stroke, you should get to the hospital quickly.

TIAs are often a warning sign for future strokes. Taking medicine, such as blood thinners, may reduce your risk of a stroke. Your doctor might also recommend surgery.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Start Here

Transient Ischemic Attack(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)(American Heart Association)

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Latest News Diagnosis/Symptoms Treatment Prevention/Screening	Rehabilitation/Recovery Related Issues	Tutorials
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Clinical Trials Journal Articles	Organizations Statistics	No links available

Overviews
- Transient Ischemic Attack(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Transient Ischemic Attack Animation(American Heart Association)
Latest News
- Mini-Stroke Can Mean Major One Within Hours(06/01/2009, HealthDay)
- Consider Transient Ischemic Attacks an Emergency, Groups Urge(05/07/2009, HealthDay)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Carotid Ultrasound(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- Carotid Ultrasound Imaging(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Functional MR Imaging (fMRI) -- Brain(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Let's Talk about Stroke, TIA and Warning Signs(American Heart Association) - Links to PDF
  Also available in Spanish
- Stroke Risk Factors and Symptoms(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  Also available in Spanish
Treatment
- Non-Surgical Procedures Open Blocked Arteries to Prevent and Treat Stroke(Society of Interventional Radiology)
- What Are Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Agents?(American Heart Association) - Links to PDF
Return to top
Prevention/Screening
- Aspirin in Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention(American Heart Association)
- Carotid Endarterectomy(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Lipid Profile(American Association for Clinical Chemistry)
- Stents(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Return to top
Rehabilitation/Recovery
- Post-Stroke Rehabilitation(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Related Issues
- Avoiding Another Stroke(American Stroke Association)
- Carotid Artery Disease, Stroke, Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs)(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- JAMA Patient Page: Transient Neurological Attacks(American Medical Association) - Links to PDF
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Tutorials
- Carotid Endarterectomy(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Ischemic Attack, Transient(National Institutes of Health)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
Return to top
Organizations
- American Heart Association
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
  Also available in Spanish
- National Stroke Association
Return to top
Statistics
- Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics -- 2008 Update(American Heart Association) - Large PDF file
Return to top

Related Topics
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Transient Ischemic Attack is the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Stroke

2009-06-08T19:30:00.000-07:00

Also called: Brain attack

A stroke is a medical emergency. Strokes happen when blood flow to your brain stops. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. There are two kinds of stroke. The more common kind, called ischemic stroke, is caused by a blood clot that blocks or plugs a blood vessel in the brain. The other kind, called hemorrhagic stroke, is caused by a blood vessel that breaks and bleeds into the brain. "Mini-strokes" or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), occur when the blood supply to the brain is briefly interrupted.

Symptoms of stroke are

Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg (especially on one side of the body)
Sudden confusion, trouble speaking or understanding speech
Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes
Sudden trouble walking, dizziness, loss of balance or coordination
Sudden severe headache with no known cause

If you have any of these symptoms, you must get to a hospital quickly to begin treatment. Acute stroke therapies try to stop a stroke while it is happening by quickly dissolving the blood clot or by stopping the bleeding. Post-stroke rehabilitation helps individuals overcome disabilities that result from stroke damage. Drug therapy with blood thinners is the most common treatment for stroke.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Start Here

Know Stroke: Know the Signs, Act in Time(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
Strokes(Patient Education Institute)
Also available in Spanish
What You Need to Know about Stroke(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Latest News Diagnosis/Symptoms Treatment Prevention/Screening	Nutrition Rehabilitation/Recovery Specific Conditions Related Issues	Health Check Tools Tutorials Videos
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Anatomy/Physiology Clinical Trials Genetics Research Journal Articles	Medical Encyclopedia Dictionaries/Glossaries Directories Organizations Newsletters/Print Publications Statistics	MedlinePlus Magazine Children Women Seniors

Overviews
- Know Stroke. Know the Signs. Act in Time.(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  Also available in Spanish
- Stroke(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Stroke(Food and Drug Administration)
  Also available in Spanish
- Stroke(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Stroke(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
- Stroke: Hope through Research(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  Also available in Spanish
Latest News
- Fewer Deaths Occurring From Brain Bleeds(06/04/2009, HealthDay)
- Mini-Stroke Can Mean Major One Within Hours(06/01/2009, HealthDay)
- Time Window for Clot-Busting Drug May Be Expanded for Some Stroke Patients(05/28/2009, American Heart Association)
- Window for Stroke Treatment Opens Wider(05/28/2009, HealthDay)
- More Patients Needed in Clinical Trials to Find Treatment for Heart Condition Linked to Certain Strokes(05/11/2009, American Heart Association)
- May Is National Stroke Awareness Month(05/04/2009, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- More News on Stroke
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Carotid Ultrasound(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- Carotid Ultrasound Imaging(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Catheter Angiography(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Functional MR Imaging (fMRI) -- Brain(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Hypertensive Crisis: What Are the Symptoms?(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Know Stroke: Know the Signs, Act in Time Video(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
- Stroke Diagnosis(Washington University, School of Medicine)
- Stroke Risk Factors and Symptoms(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  Also available in Spanish
Treatment
- Neurosurgery - What Is It?(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Non-Surgical Procedures Open Blocked Arteries to Prevent and Treat Stroke(Society of Interventional Radiology)
- Stroke: First Aid(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Tissue Plasminogen Activator (TPA)(American Heart Association)
  Also available in Spanish
- What Are Anticoagulants and Antiplatelet Agents?(American Heart Association) - Links to PDF
Return to top
Prevention/Screening
- ABCs of Preventing Heart Disease, Stroke and Heart Attack(American Heart Association)
- Brain Basics: Preventing Stroke(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  Also available in Spanish
- Carotid Endarterectomy(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Carotid Endarterectomy and Stenosis(American Association of Neurological Surgeons)
- Carotid Stenting(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Daily Aspirin Therapy: Understand the Benefits and Risks(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- hs-CRP (High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein)(American Association for Clinical Chemistry)
- Questions and Answers about Carotid Endarterectomy(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
- Reducing Your Risk of Stroke: Don't Wait for It to Happen to You(American Heart Association, American College of Physicians) - Links to PDF
- Stroke(National Institute on Aging)
  Also available in Spanish
- Talk with Your Doctor about Taking Aspirin Every Day(Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion)
Return to top
Nutrition
- Recovery After Stroke: Healthy Eating(National Stroke Association) - Links to PDF
- Role of Nutrition in the Prevention and Treatment of Stroke(Cleveland Clinic Foundation)
Return to top
Rehabilitation/Recovery
- Effects of Stroke(National Stroke Association)
- Post-Stroke Rehabilitation(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  Also available in Spanish
- Stroke Rehabilitation(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
- Stroke Rehabilitation(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Specific Conditions
- CADASIL(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
- Intracerebral Hemorrhage(Washington University, School of Medicine)
- Ischemic Stroke(Washington University, School of Medicine)
- JAMA Patient Page: Hemorrhagic Stroke(American Medical Association)
- Lacunar Stroke(InteliHealth)
- Spinal Cord Infarction(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage(Washington University, School of Medicine)
- Wallenberg's Syndrome(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
Return to top
Related Issues
- Adapting the Home After a Stroke(Washington University, School of Medicine)
- Agnosia(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
- Avoiding Another Stroke(American Stroke Association)
- Can I Drive After a Stroke?(American Stroke Association)
- Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Stroke(National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
- Life After Stroke: Survivor and Caregiver(National Stroke Association)
- Pulse Check: The Importance of Self-Screening for Atrial Fibrillation Twice a Year(Women's Heart Foundation)
- Sexual Activity and Heart Disease or Stroke(American Heart Association)
- Spasticity and Paralysis(National Stroke Association)
- Stroke Effects(American Stroke Association)
- Vascular Dementia(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Vulnerable Plaque(Texas Heart Institute)
Return to top
Health Check Tools
- Stroke Risk Questionnaire(Siteman Cancer Center)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Tutorials
- Carotid Endarterectomy(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Neurosurgery - What Is It?(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Stroke(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
- Stroke Rehabilitation(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Strokes(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Videos
- If I Had - Slurred Speech(Insidermedicine)
- Innovations in Stroke Prevention: An Update on Carotid Stenting(OR-Live) - One hour program - 7/15/2008
- Know Stroke: Know the Signs, Act in Time Video(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
Return to top
Anatomy/Physiology
- Atlas of the Body: The Brain--Effects of Stroke(American Medical Association)
Return to top
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Carotid Stenosis(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Cerebrovascular Disorders(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Endarterectomy, Carotid(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Stroke(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Endarterectomy, Carotid(National Institutes of Health)
- Stroke Trials Directory(Washington University, School of Medicine)
Return to top
Genetics
- Genetics Home Reference: Cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy(National Library of Medicine)
- Genetics Home Reference: Mitochondrial encephalomyopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes(National Library of Medicine)
Return to top
Research
- Adult Stroke Patients Report Low Use of Healthcare Services to Prevent a Second Stroke(American Heart Association)
- Alcohol's Impact on Heart and Stroke Risk May Differ for Men, Women(American Heart Association)
- Arrival Method, Slow Response Often Delay Stroke Care(American Heart Association)
- Caring for Stroke Survivors Sometimes Stressful, but Also Rewarding(American Heart Association)
- Children with Sickle Cell Disease 221 More Likely to Suffer Stroke(American Heart Association)
- Frequent Coffee Drinking Associated with Lower Stroke Risk in Nonsmoking Women(American Heart Association)
- Guidelines Highlight Key Differences Between Child and Adult Stroke(American Heart Association)
- Healthy Lifestyle Dramatically Cuts Stroke Risk(American Heart Association)
- Heart and Stroke Death Rates Down, Some Risk Factors Still Too High(American Heart Association)
- Hospitals Using Quality Improvement Program Increase Compliance to Stroke Treatment Guidelines(American Heart Association)
- Ischemic Stroke Rate Increases Dramatically in Mid-40s(American Heart Association)
- Laser Treatment Clinical Trial Misses Primary Endpoint(American Heart Association)
- Most High-Risk Patients in Study Not Taking Blood Thinner Before Stroke(American Heart Association)
- Most U.S. Hospitals Don't Provide Powerful Acute Stroke Drug to Medicare Patients(American Heart Association)
- Number of Fast-Food Restaurants in Neighborhood Associated with Stroke Risk(American Heart Association)
- People at High Risk of Stroke Less Aware of Stroke Warning Signs(American Heart Association)
- Psychological Symptoms and Personality Characteristics Affect Quality of Life after Stroke(American Heart Association)
- Robotic Therapy May Reduce Stroke Physical Disability Years Later(American Heart Association)
- Specialized Care, Telemedicine May Improve Stroke Outcomes(American Heart Association)
- Statin Reduces Heart Attack, Stroke Rates in Patients with Normal Cholesterol but Elevated C-Reactive Protein(American Heart Association)
- Statins and Stroke(American Academy of Neurology)
- Stroke(National Institutes of Health) - Links to PDF
- Stroke Incidence Declines among Swedish Diabetics(American Heart Association)
- Stroke Incidence May Be Higher and Deadlier in American Indians(American Heart Association)
- Stroke Patients Who Reach Hospitals within "Golden Hour" Twice As Likely to Get Clot-Busting Drug(American Heart Association)
- Sudden Hearing Loss Could Indicate Future Stroke(American Heart Association)
- Ten Percent of Healthy People in Study Had Injury from "Silent Strokes"(American Heart Association)
- Too Much, Too Little Sleep Increases Ischemic Risk in Postmenopausal Women(American Heart Association)
- Treadmill Therapy Rewires Brain, Helps Stroke Survivors Walk Better(American Heart Association)
- Treating Brain Hemorrhage Early at High-Volume Centers Improves Outcomes(American Heart Association)
- Women on Mediterranean-Type Diets May Lower Heart, Stroke Risk(American Heart Association)
- Young Adult Stroke Patients May Be Misdiagnosed in Emergency Rooms(American Heart Association)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
- Article: Differences in retinal vessels support a distinct vasculopathy causing lacunar...
- Article: Stroke and age-brain barrier: how many bricks in the wall?
- Article: Advances in interventional neuroradiology.
- Stroke -- see more articles
- Stroke prevention -- see more articles
- Therapy & rehabilitation after stroke -- see more articles
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Medical Encyclopedia
- Stroke
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Dictionaries/Glossaries
- Glossary of Neurosurgical Terms(American Association of Neurological Surgeons)
Return to top
Directories
- Certified Primary Stroke Centers(American Stroke Association)
- Find a Board-Certified Neurosurgeon(American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons)
- Find a Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation Physician(American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation)
Return to top
Organizations
- American Heart Association
- American Stroke Association
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
  Also available in Spanish
- National Stroke Association
Return to top
Newsletters/Print Publications
- Stroke Connection Magazine(American Stroke Association)
- Stroke Smart(National Stroke Association)
Return to top
Statistics
- FastStats: Stroke and Cerebrovascular Disease(National Center for Health Statistics)
- Heart Disease and Stroke Maps(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics -- 2008 Update(American Heart Association) - Large PDF file
- Stroke(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Stroke Facts 2007: All Americans(American Heart Association) - Links to PDF
Return to top
MedlinePlus Magazine
- Kirk Douglas: "My Stroke of Luck"
- The "Know Stroke" Campaign
- Two Kinds of Stroke
- Understanding Stroke
Return to top
Children
- Pediatric Stroke Center(Washington University, School of Medicine)
- Stroke(Nemours Foundation)
Return to top
Women
- Stroke is a Woman's Problem Too(American Stroke Association)
- Women and Stroke: Unique Symptoms in Women(National Stroke Association)
Return to top
Seniors
- Stroke(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
Return to top

Related Topics
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Stroke is the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
Languages
- ASL (American Sign Language)
- Arabic (العربية)
- Bosnian (Bosanski)
- Chinese - Simplified (简体中文)
- Chinese - Traditional (繁體中文)
- French (français)
- Hindi (हिन्दी)
- Hmong (Hmoob)
- Japanese (日本語)
- Korean (한국어)
- Portuguese (português)
- Russian (Русский)
- Somali (af Soomaali)
- Spanish (español)
- Tagalog (Tagalog)
- Ukrainian (Українська)
- Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt)

Raynaud's Disease

2009-06-08T19:25:00.000-07:00

Also called: Raynaud's phenomenon

Raynaud's disease is a rare disorder of the blood vessels, usually in the fingers and toes. People with this disorder have attacks that cause the blood vessels to narrow. When this happens, blood can't get to the surface of the skin and the affected areas turn white and blue. When the blood flow returns, the skin turns red and throbs or tingles. In severe cases, loss of blood flow can cause sores or tissue death. Cold weather and stress can trigger attacks. Often the cause of Raynaud's is not known. People in colder climates are more likely to develop Raynaud's than people in warmer areas.

Treatment for Raynaud's may include drugs to keep the blood vessels open. There are also simple things you can do yourself, such as

Soaking hands in warm water at the first sign of an attack
Keeping your hands and feet warm in cold weather

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Start Here

Raynaud's Disease(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Raynaud's Phenomenon(National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases)
Also available in Spanish

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Diagnosis/Symptoms	Related Issues	Pictures & Photographs
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Clinical Trials Journal Articles	Medical Encyclopedia Organizations	No links available

Overviews
- Questions and Answers about Raynaud's Phenomenon(National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases)
- Raynaud's Disease(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- ANA (Antinuclear Antibody Test)(American Association for Clinical Chemistry)
Related Issues
- Limited Scleroderma (CREST Syndrome)(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Pictures & Photographs
- Raynaud's Disease(Logical Images)
Return to top
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Raynaud Disease(National Institutes of Health)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
Return to top
Medical Encyclopedia
- Raynaud's Disease
Return to top
Organizations
- National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top

Related Topics
- Blood, Heart and Circulation
- Symptoms
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Raynaud's Disease is the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Peripheral Arterial Disease

2009-06-08T19:22:00.000-07:00

Also called: PAD

Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) happens when there is a narrowing of the blood vessels outside of your heart. A substance made up of fat and cholesterol, called plaque, builds up on the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the arms and legs. The plaque causes the arteries to narrow or become blocked. This can reduce or stop blood flow, usually to the legs, causing them to hurt or feel numb. If severe enough, blocked blood flow can cause tissue death. If this condition is left untreated, a foot or leg may need to be amputated.

A person with PAD also has an increased risk of heart attack, stroke and transient ischemic attack. You can often stop or reverse the buildup of plaque in the arteries with dietary changes, exercise, and efforts to lower high cholesterol levels and high blood pressure.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Start Here

Peripheral Arterial Disease(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Peripheral Vascular Disease(American Heart Association)
Also available in Spanish

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Latest News Diagnosis/Symptoms Treatment Prevention/Screening	Specific Conditions Related Issues	Health Check Tools Videos
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Clinical Trials Research Journal Articles	Directories Organizations	MedlinePlus Magazine Women

Overviews
- JAMA Patient Page: Peripheral Arterial Disease(American Medical Association)
  Also available in Spanish
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD)(Society for Vascular Surgery)
Latest News
- Aspirin Lowers Stroke Risk in Peripheral Artery Disease(05/12/2009, HealthDay)
- With Peripheral Artery Disease, Med Adherence Is Low(04/24/2009, HealthDay)
- Study Questions Screening for Leg Vessel Blockages(03/16/2009, HealthDay)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Angiogram(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Ankle-Brachial Index(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Duplex Ultrasound(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- MR Angiography (MRA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Ultrasound - Vascular(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
Treatment
- Amputation(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Angioplasty and Stenting(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Antiplatelet Drugs(Cleveland Clinic Foundation)
- Endarterectomy(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Surgical Bypass(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Thrombolytic Therapy(Society for Vascular Surgery)
Return to top
Prevention/Screening
- PAD Risk Factors and Possible Complications(American Heart Association)
Return to top
Specific Conditions
- Aortoiliac Occlusive Disease(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Arm Artery Disease(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Buerger's Disease(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Critical Limb Ischemia: What Is It?(Vascular Disease Foundation)
- Facts about Peripheral Arterial Disease (P.A.D.) for African Americans(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute) - Links to PDF
- Functional Peripheral Arterial Disease(Merck & Co., Inc.)
- Gangrene(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- JAMA Patient Page: Renal Artery Stenosis(American Medical Association) - Links to PDF
- Occlusive Peripheral Arterial Disease(Merck & Co., Inc.)
- Peripheral Aneurysms(Society for Vascular Surgery)
Return to top
Related Issues
- About Peripheral Arterial Disease(Peripheral Arterial Disease Coalition) - Links to PDF
- Claudication(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) and Limb Loss(Amputee Coalition of America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Vascular Pain(Cleveland Clinic Foundation)
Return to top
Health Check Tools
- Are You at Risk for Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)?(Society of Interventional Radiology)
Return to top
Videos
- Cryoplasty Therapy: Innovative Technique to Remedy Blood Vessel Blockage Resulting from Peripheral Arterial Disease(OR-Live) - One hour program - 5/02/2007
- Procedures for Improving Circulation to the Legs(OR-Live) - One hour program - 5/10/2007
Return to top
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Intermittent Claudication(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Peripheral Vascular Diseases(National Institutes of Health)
Return to top
Research
- Insulin Resistance Linked to Peripheral Artery Disease(American Heart Association)
- Secondhand Smoke Linked to Peripheral Artery Disease in Women(American Heart Association)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
Return to top
Directories
- Find a Peripheral Vascular Disease Screening Site(Society of Interventional Radiology)
- Find a Vascular Specialist(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Find an Accredited Echocardiography Laboratory or Vascular Laboratory(American Society of Echocardiography)
Return to top
Organizations
Return to top
MedlinePlus Magazine
Return to top
Women
- Women and Vascular Disease(Society of Interventional Radiology)
Return to top

Related Topics
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Peripheral Arterial Disease is the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Languages
- Bosnian (Bosanski)
- Chinese - Simplified (简体中文)
- Chinese - Traditional (繁體中文)
- French (français)
- Hindi (हिन्दी)
- Japanese (日本語)
- Korean (한국어)
- Russian (Русский)
- Somali (af Soomaali)
- Spanish (español)
- Ukrainian (Українська)

Low Blood Pressure

2009-06-08T19:18:00.000-07:00

Also called: Hypotension, LBP

You've probably heard that high blood pressure is a problem. So what about low blood pressure?

Blood pressure is the force of your blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Each time your heart beats, it pumps out blood into the arteries. Your blood pressure is highest when your heart beats, pumping the blood. This is called systolic pressure. When your heart is at rest, between beats, your blood pressure falls. This is the diastolic pressure. Your blood pressure reading uses these two numbers. Both are important. Usually they're written one above or before the other, such as 120/80. If your blood pressure reading is 90/60 or lower, you have low blood pressure.

Some people have low blood pressure all the time. They have no symptoms and their low readings are normal for them. In other people, blood pressure drops below normal because of some event or medical condition. Some people may experience symptoms of low pressure when standing up too quickly. Low blood pressure is a problem only if it causes dizziness, fainting or in extreme cases, shock.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Start Here

Hypotension(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Latest News Diagnosis/Symptoms	Specific Conditions	No links available
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Clinical Trials Journal Articles	Medical Encyclopedia Organizations	Seniors

Overviews
- Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Your High Blood Pressure Questions Answered -- Low Blood Pressure(American Heart Association)
Latest News
- Too-Low Blood Pressure Can Also Bring Danger(05/07/2009, HealthDay)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Arterial Catheterization(American Thoracic Society)
- Blood Pressure Testing and Measurement(American Heart Association)
- Tilt-Table Test(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Specific Conditions
- Autonomic Nervous System(American Heart Association)
- Multiple System Atrophy with Orthostatic Hypotension (Shy-Drager Syndrome)(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
- Orthostatic Hypotension(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary
- Orthostatic Hypotension (Postural Hypotension)(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Shy-Drager Syndrome(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Return to top
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Hypotension(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Shy-Drager Syndrome(National Institutes of Health)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
Return to top
Medical Encyclopedia
- Low Blood Pressure
Return to top
Organizations
Return to top
Seniors
- Fainting (Syncope)(AGS Foundation for Health in Aging)
- Postprandial Hypotension(Merck & Co., Inc.)
- Steady As You Go: Low Blood Pressure(AGS Foundation for Health in Aging) - Links to PDF
Return to top

Related Topics
- High Blood Pressure
- Blood, Heart and Circulation
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Low Blood Pressure is the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Kawasaki Disease

2009-06-08T19:15:00.000-07:00

Also called: Mucocutaneous lymph node syndrome

Kawasaki disease is a rare childhood disease. It makes the walls of the blood vessels throughout the body become inflamed. It can affect any type of blood vessel, including the arteries, veins and capillaries. No one knows what causes Kawasaki disease. Symptoms include

High fever
Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
A rash on the mid-section and genital area
Red, dry, cracked lips and a red, swollen tongue
Red, swollen palms of the hands and soles of the feet
Redness of the eyes

Kawasaki disease can't be passed from one child to another. It is mainly treated with medicines. Rarely, medical procedures and surgery also may be used for children whose coronary arteries are affected.

Kawasaki disease can't be prevented. However, most children who develop the disease fully recover -- usually within weeks of getting signs and symptoms. Further problems are rare.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Start Here

Kawasaki Disease(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Diagnosis/Symptoms	Related Issues	No links available
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Clinical Trials Journal Articles	Medical Encyclopedia Organizations	No links available

Overviews
- Kawasaki Disease(American Academy of Family Physicians)
- Kawasaki Disease(Nemours Foundation)
  Also available in Spanish
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- C-Reactive Protein (CRP)(American Association for Clinical Chemistry)
- Echocardiography(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate): Sed Rate(American Association for Clinical Chemistry)
Related Issues
- Kawasaki Syndrome and RotaTeq Vaccine(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Mucocutaneous Lymph Node Syndrome(National Institutes of Health)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
Return to top
Medical Encyclopedia
- Kawasaki Disease
Return to top
Organizations
- American Heart Association
Return to top
Related Topics
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Kawasaki Disease is the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

High Blood Pressure

2009-06-08T19:13:00.001-07:00

Also called: HBP, HTN, Hypertension

Your blood pressure reading uses these two numbers, the systolic and diastolic pressures. Usually they are written one above or before the other. A reading of

120/80 or lower is normal blood pressure
140/90 or higher is high blood pressure
120 and 139 for the top number, or between 80 and 89 for the bottom number is prehypertension

High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, but it can cause serious problems such as stroke, heart failure, heart attack and kidney failure. You can control high blood pressure through healthy lifestyle habits and taking medicines, if needed.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Start Here

High Blood Pressure(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Also available in Spanish
High Blood Pressure: Things You Can Do to Help Lower Yours(American Academy of Family Physicians)
Also available in Spanish
Hypertension(Patient Education Institute)
Also available in Spanish

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Latest News Diagnosis/Symptoms Prevention/Screening	Nutrition Disease Management Specific Conditions Related Issues	Pictures & Photographs Health Check Tools Tutorials Videos
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Clinical Trials Research Journal Articles	Dictionaries/Glossaries Organizations Statistics	MedlinePlus Magazine Children Teenagers Women Seniors

Overviews
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)(Food and Drug Administration)
  Also available in Spanish
- JAMA Patient Page: Hypertension(American Medical Association) - Links to PDF
  Also available in Spanish
- Your Guide to Lowering Blood Pressure(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute) - Large PDF file
- Your Guide to Lowering High Blood Pressure(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Latest News
- Pay-for-Performance Doesn't Shortchange Patients(06/03/2009, HealthDay)
- Sicker High Blood Pressure Patients May Get Best Care(06/01/2009, American Heart Association)
- Viral Infection Might Trigger High Blood Pressure(05/15/2009, HealthDay)
- Genes Yield Clues to High Blood Pressure(05/12/2009, HealthDay)
- May is High Blood Pressure Education Month(05/11/2009, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- Researchers Uncover Genetic Clues to Blood Pressure(05/10/2009, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- Most Americans Should Consume Less Sodium (1,500 mg/Day or Less)(03/27/2009, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
- More News on High Blood Pressure
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Arterial Catheterization(American Thoracic Society)
- High Blood Pressure Detection(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Prevention/Screening
- Prevent and Control High Blood Pressure: Mission Possible(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute) - Links to PDF
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Nutrition
- DASH Diet: Avoid Hidden Dangers When Dining Out(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- DASH Diet: Shopping and Cooking Tips for Healthy Eating(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Make Healthy Food Choices(American Heart Association)
- Shake Your Salt Habit(American Heart Association)
- Your Guide To Lowering Your Blood Pressure with DASH(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute) - Large PDF file
Return to top
Disease Management
- Exercise: A Drug-Free Approach to Lowering High Blood Pressure(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Get the Most Out of Home Blood Pressure Monitoring(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- High Blood Pressure: Using an Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitor(American Academy of Family Physicians)
  Also available in Spanish
- Move to Prevent and Control High Blood Pressure: Mission Possible(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute) - Links to PDF
  Also available in Spanish
- Ten Ways to Control Your High Blood Pressure(American Heart Association)
Return to top
Specific Conditions
- Hypertensive Crisis: What Are the Symptoms?(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Secondary Hypertension(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Return to top
Related Issues
- Cold and Flu Medication for People with High Blood Pressure(American Heart Association)
- High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- High Blood Pressure and Kidney Disease(National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
  Also available in Spanish
- High Blood Pressure and Sex: Overcome the Challenges(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- High Blood Pressure Dangers: Hypertension's Effects on Your Body(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- High Blood Pressure Increases Your Risk for Stroke(American Heart Association)
- Medications and Supplements That Can Raise Your Blood Pressure(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Prehypertension(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Questions to Ask Your Doctor If You Have High Blood Pressure(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- Stress and High Blood Pressure: What's the Connection?(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Return to top
Pictures & Photographs
- Effect of High Blood Pressure on Your Body(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Return to top
Health Check Tools
- Test Your High Blood Pressure IQ with This Quiz(American Heart Association)
Return to top
Tutorials
- High Blood Pressure(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- Hypertension(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Videos
- If I Had - Systolic Hypertension and Was Over 55(Insidermedicine)
Return to top
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Hypertension(National Institutes of Health)
Return to top
Research
- Audio Relaxation Program May Help Lower Blood Pressure in Elderly(American Heart Association)
- Children Who May Have High Blood Pressure Can Benefit from 24-Hour Blood Pressure Monitoring(American Heart Association)
- Computer-Based Phone Calls Raise Awareness, Control of Blood Pressure(American Heart Association)
- Education, Simple Measures Keys to Improving Vets' Hypertension Care(American Heart Association)
- Healthy Vegetable Oils Associated with Reduced Heart Attack Risk, Lower Blood Pressure(American Heart Association)
- High Blood Pressure Control Continues to Improve in England(American Heart Association)
- High Blood Pressure in Kids Linked to Adult Hypertension(American Heart Association)
- High-Normal Blood Pressure in Young Adults as a Risk for Atherosclerosis Later in Life(American College of Physicians) - Links to PDF
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)(National Institutes of Health) - Links to PDF
- Low Birth Weight Linked to Salt Sensitivity, Blood Pressure and Kidney Issues(American Heart Association)
- More Americans Have, Get Treated for High Blood Pressure(American Heart Association)
- Poor Teen Sleep Habits May Raise Blood Pressure, Lead to CVD(American Heart Association)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
- Article: I'm 66 and I've been diagnosed with pre-diabetes. I've had...
- Article: Diabetics need blood pressure and kidney function control. Hypertension and...
- Article: Hypertension and intra-operative incidents: a multicentre study of 125,000 surgical...
- High Blood Pressure -- see more articles
Return to top
Dictionaries/Glossaries
- Hypertension Glossary(Cleveland Clinic Foundation)
Return to top
Organizations
- American Heart Association
- National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Return to top
Statistics
- FastStats: Hypertension(National Center for Health Statistics)
- High Blood Pressure(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
  Also available in Spanish
- High Blood Pressure Facts(Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
Return to top
MedlinePlus Magazine
- Control Blood Pressure, Protect Your Kidneys
- Hypertension--Listen to Your Heart
- Pressure Points: Preventing and Controlling Hypertension
Return to top
Children
- High Blood Pressure in Children(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Return to top
Teenagers
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)(Nemours Foundation)
Return to top
Women
- About High Blood Pressure: A Special Message for Women(American Heart Association)
  Also available in Spanish
- Menopause and High Blood Pressure: What's the Connection?(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Return to top
Seniors
- High Blood Pressure(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- High Blood Pressure(National Institute on Aging)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Related Topics
- High Blood Pressure in Pregnancy
- Low Blood Pressure
- Blood, Heart and Circulation
- Seniors
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on High Blood Pressure is the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Languages
- ASL (American Sign Language)
- Arabic (العربية)
- Bosnian (Bosanski)
- Chinese - Simplified (简体中文)
- Chinese - Traditional (繁體中文)
- French (français)
- Hindi (हिन्दी)
- Hmong (Hmoob)
- Japanese (日本語)
- Korean (한국어)
- Portuguese (português)
- Russian (Русский)
- Somali (af Soomaali)
- Spanish (español)
- Tagalog (Tagalog)
- Ukrainian (Українська)
- Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt)

Diabetic Foot

2009-06-08T19:09:00.000-07:00

If you have diabetes, your blood sugar levels are too high. Over time, this can damage your nerves or blood vessels. Nerve damage from diabetes can cause you to lose feeling in your feet. You may not feel a cut, a blister or a sore. Foot injuries such as these can cause ulcers and infections. Serious cases may even lead to amputation. Damage to the blood vessels can also mean that your feet do not get enough blood and oxygen. It is harder for your foot to heal, if you do get a sore or infection.

You can help avoid foot problems. First, control your blood sugar levels. Good foot hygiene is also crucial.

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases

Start Here

Diabetes - Foot Care(Patient Education Institute)
Also available in Spanish
Diabetes: Foot Care(American Academy of Family Physicians)
Also available in Spanish
Take Care of Your Feet for a Lifetime(National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
Also available in Spanish

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Latest News Diagnosis/Symptoms Treatment Prevention/Screening	Specific Conditions Related Issues	Pictures & Photographs Tutorials Videos
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Clinical Trials Research Journal Articles	Dictionaries/Glossaries Directories Organizations Statistics	No links available

Overviews
- Diabetic Complications and Amputation Prevention(American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons)
Latest News
- Drug May Lessen Amputation Risk for Diabetics(05/22/2009, HealthDay)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Watch Out for These Red Flags(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society)
Treatment
- Total Contact Cast: What It Is and Why It's Used(American Academy of Family Physicians)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Prevention/Screening
- Diabetes Care: 10 Ways to Avoid Diabetes Complications(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Diabetic Foot and Risk: How to Prevent Losing Your Leg(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society)
- Prevent Diabetes Problems: Keep Your Feet and Skin Healthy(National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Specific Conditions
- Diabetic Wound Care(American Podiatric Medical Association)
Return to top
Related Issues
- Foot Care When Traveling (for People with Diabetes)(Cleveland Clinic Foundation)
  Also available in Spanish
- Warning for Regranex - Cream for Leg and Foot Ulcers(Food and Drug Administration)
Return to top
Pictures & Photographs
- Diabetic Ulcer (Neurogenic Ulcer)(Logical Images)
Return to top
Tutorials
- Diabetes - Foot Care(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Videos
- Regenerative Tissue Matrix Used to Repair Challenging Diabetic Foot Ulcers(OR-Live) - One hour program - 10/13/2005
  Also available in Spanish
Return to top
Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Diabetic Foot(National Institutes of Health)
Return to top
Research
- Foot Care(American Diabetes Association) - Current medical research reports
- Using Botulinum Toxin to Treat Diabetic Foot Pain(American Academy of Neurology)
Return to top
Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
- Article: The use of amelogenin protein in the treatment of hard-to-heal...
- Article: Hyperbaric oxygen, oxidative stress, NO bioavailability and ulcer oxygenation in...
- Article: Chronic diabetic ulcers under the first metatarsal head treated by...
- Diabetic Foot -- see more articles
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Dictionaries/Glossaries
- Diabetes Dictionary(National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
  Also available in Spanish
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Directories
- Directory of Diabetes Organizations(National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
- Find an Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle MD(American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society)
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Organizations
- American Diabetes Association
- National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse(National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases)
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
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Statistics
- Diabetes(American Podiatric Medical Association)
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Related Topics
- Diabetes
- Diabetes Complications
- Diabetic Nerve Problems
- Foot Health
- Foot Injuries and Disorders
- Blood, Heart and Circulation
- Bones, Joints and Muscles
- Brain and Nerves
- Endocrine System
National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Diabetic Foot is the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases
Languages
- Amharic (amarunya)
- Somali (af Soomaali)
- Spanish (español)

Carotid Artery Disease

2009-06-08T15:13:00.000-07:00

Your carotid arteries are two large blood vessels in your neck. They supply your brain with blood. If you have carotid artery disease, the arteries become narrow, usually from the buildup of cholesterol and other material. If a blood clot sticks in the narrowed arteries, blood can't reach your brain. This is one of the causes of stroke.

Carotid artery disease often does not cause symptoms, but there are tests that can tell your doctor if you have it. If the arteries are very narrow, you may need an operation called an endarterectomy to remove the plaque. For less severe narrowing, a medicine to prevent blood clots can reduce your risk of stroke. Another option for people who can't have surgery is carotid angioplasty. This involves placing balloons and/or stents into the artery to open it and hold it open.

Start Here

Carotid Artery Disease(American Heart Association)
Carotid Artery Disease(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
Questions and Answers about Carotid Endarterectomy(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Latest News Diagnosis/Symptoms Treatment Prevention/Screening	Related Issues	Tutorials Videos
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Clinical Trials Journal Articles	Directories Organizations	No links available

Overviews
- Carotid Artery Disease(Texas Heart Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Carotid Artery Disease, Stroke, Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIAs)(Society for Vascular Surgery)
Latest News
- Hardened Arteries Threaten Obese, Diabetic Youth(05/26/2009, HealthDay)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Carotid Bruit(American Heart Association)
- Carotid Ultrasound(National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute)
- Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Duplex Ultrasound(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- MR Angiography (MRA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
Treatment
- Carotid Angioplasty and Stenting(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Carotid Endarterectomy(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Carotid Endarterectomy(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Carotid Stenting(Society for Vascular Surgery)
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Prevention/Screening
- Screening for Blockages in the Blood Vessels to the Brain: Recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force(American College of Physicians) - Links to PDF
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Related Issues
- The Carotid Artery and the Eye(American Academy of Ophthalmology)
- What Is a Dissected Carotid Artery?(InteliHealth)
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Tutorials
- Carotid Endarterectomy(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
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Videos
- Carotid Artery Stenting(OR-Live) - One hour program - 09/28/2006
- Innovations in Stroke Prevention: An Update on Carotid Stenting(OR-Live) - One hour program - 7/15/2008
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Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Carotid Artery Diseases(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Carotid Stenosis(National Institutes of Health)
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Endarterectomy, Carotid(National Institutes of Health)
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Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
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Directories
- Find a Vascular Specialist(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Find an Accredited Echocardiography Laboratory or Vascular Laboratory(American Society of Echocardiography)
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Organizations
- American Stroke Association
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
  Also available in Spanish
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Stroke
Blood, Heart and Circulation

National Institutes of Health
- The primary NIH organization for research on Carotid Artery Disease is the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Brain Aneurysm

2009-06-08T15:06:00.000-07:00

Also called: Berry aneurysm, Cerebral aneurysm, Intracranial aneurysm

A brain aneurysm is an abnormal bulge or "ballooning" in the wall of an artery in the brain. They are sometimes called berry aneurysms because they are often the size of a small berry. Most brain aneurysms produce no symptoms until they become large, begin to leak blood, or rupture.

If a brain aneurysm presses on nerves in your brain, it can cause signs and symptoms. These can include:

A droopy eyelid
Double vision or other changes in vision
Pain above or behind the eye
A dilated pupil
Numbness or weakness on one side of the face or body

Treatment depends on the size and location of the aneurysm, whether it is infected, and whether it has ruptured. If a brain aneurysm ruptures, symptoms can include a sudden, severe headache, nausea and vomiting, stiff neck, loss of consciousness, and signs of a stroke. Any of these symptoms require immediate medical attention.

National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute

Start Here

Cerebral Aneurysm(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke) - Short Summary

Basics	Learn More	Multimedia & Cool Tools
Overviews Latest News Diagnosis/Symptoms Treatment	Rehabilitation/Recovery Specific Conditions	Tutorials Videos
Research	Reference Shelf	For You
Clinical Trials Research Journal Articles	Dictionaries/Glossaries Directories Organizations	Children

Overviews
- Brain Aneurysm(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
- Cerebral Aneurysm(National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke)
  Also available in Spanish
Latest News
- Fewer Deaths Occurring From Brain Bleeds(06/04/2009, HealthDay)
Diagnosis/Symptoms
- Angiogram(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Brain Aneurysm Warning Signs/Symptoms(Brain Aneurysm Foundation)
- Catheter Angiography(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Duplex Ultrasound(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- MR Angiography (MRA)(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Thunderclap Headaches(Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Treatment
- Brain Aneurysm Embolization(American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America)
  Also available in Spanish
- Brain Aneurysm Treatment Options(Brain Aneurysm Foundation)
- Neurosurgery - What Is It?(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
- Treatment Options for Cerebral Aneurysms(American Association of Neurological Surgeons)
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Rehabilitation/Recovery
- Brain Aneurysm Recovery(Brain Aneurysm Foundation)
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Specific Conditions
- Subarachnoid Hemorrhage(Brain Aneurysm Foundation)
- Unruptured Brain Aneurysms(Brain Aneurysm Foundation)
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Tutorials
- Neurosurgery - What Is It?(Patient Education Institute)
  Also available in Spanish
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Videos
- Clipping and Coiling: Treatment Options for Brain Aneurysms(OR-Live) - One hour program - 8/01/2006
- If I Had - The Worst Headache of My Life(Insidermedicine)
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Clinical Trials
- ClinicalTrials.gov: Intracranial Aneurysm(National Institutes of Health)
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Research
- Close Relatives of Intracranial Aneurysm Patients May Have Increased Risk of Condition(American Heart Association)
- State of the Art of Medicine: Deciding on Preventive Screening Tests After Bleeding in the Brain(American Academy of Neurology)
- Treating Brain Hemorrhage Early at High-Volume Centers Improves Outcomes(American Heart Association)
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Journal Articles
References and abstracts from MEDLINE/PubMed (National Library of Medicine)
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Dictionaries/Glossaries
- Glossary of Neurosurgical Terms(American Association of Neurological Surgeons)
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Directories
- Find a Board-Certified Neurosurgeon(American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Congress of Neurological Surgeons)
- Find a Vascular Specialist(Society for Vascular Surgery)
- Find an Accredited Echocardiography Laboratory or Vascular Laboratory(American Society of Echocardiography)
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Organizations
- Brain Aneurysm Foundation
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
  Also available in Spanish
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Children
- Aneurysms(Children's Hospital Boston)
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Related Topics
- Aneurysms
- Blood, Heart and Circulation
- Brain and Nerves
- National Institutes of Health
  - The primary NIH organization for research on Brain Aneurysm is the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke

Medical

Balanced Diet

What is the information for this topic?

Nutrition and Athletic Performance

Information

Vasculitis

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National Institutes of Health

Vascular Diseases

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National Institutes of Health

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Transient Ischemic Attack

Related Topics

National Institutes of Health

Stroke

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National Institutes of Health

Languages

Raynaud's Disease

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National Institutes of Health

Peripheral Arterial Disease

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National Institutes of Health

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Low Blood Pressure

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Kawasaki Disease

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High Blood Pressure

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Diabetic Foot

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Languages

Carotid Artery Disease

National Institutes of Health

Brain Aneurysm

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National Institutes of Health