Health and Fitness

An atrial septal defect (pronounced EY-tree-uhl SEP-tuhl DEE-fekt) is a birth defect of the heart in which there is a hole in the wall (septum) that divides the upper chambers (atria) of the heart. What is Atrial Septal Defect? An atrial septal defect is a birth defect of the heart in which there is a hole in the wall (septum) that divides the upper chambers (atria) of the heart. A hole can vary in size and may close on its own or may require surgery. An atrial septal defect is one type of congenital heart defect. Congenital means present at birth. As a baby’s heart develops during pregnancy, there are normally several openings in the wall dividing the upper chambers of the heart (atria). These usually close during pregnancy or shortly after birth. If one of these openings does not close, a hole is left, and it is called an atrial septal defect. The hole increases the amount of blood that flows through the lungs and over time, it may cause damage to the blood vessels in the lungs. Dama...

Adie syndrome, also known as the Holmes-Adie syndrome, is a neurological disorder of unknown etiology comprising unilateral or bilateral tonically dilated pupils with light-near dissociation and tendon areflexia. This activity outlines the evaluation and management of Adie syndrome and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in treating patients with this condition. Objectives: Review the potential etiologies of Adie syndrome that should be ruled out when Adie syndrome is present. Describe the pathophysiology of Adie syndrome. Outline the evaluation of Adie syndrome. Summarize the importance of collaboration and communication amongst interprofessional team members to enhance care coordination for patients with Adie syndrome. Synonyms of Adie Syndrome Adie's Pupil Adie's Syndrome Adie's Tonic Pupil Holmes-Adie Syndrome tonic pupil syndrome General Discussion Adie syndrome, or Holmes-Adie syndrome, is a rare neurological disorder affecting the pupil of the eye. In m...

What can I do about varicose veins? Varicose veins are enlarged, swollen, and twisting veins, often appearing blue or dark purple. They happen when faulty valves in the veins allow blood to flow in the wrong direction or to pool. More than 23 percentTrusted Source of all adults are thought to be affected by varicose veins. Approximately 1 in 4 adults in the United States is affected by varicose veins. Fast facts on varicose veins Pregnant women are more susceptible to varicose veins. Symptoms can include aching legs, swollen ankles, and spider veins. People who are overweight have an increased risk of varicose veins. What are varicose veins? Varicose veins are large, swollen veins that often appear on the legs and feet. They happen when the valves in the veins do not work properly, so the blood does not flow effectively. The veins rarely need treatment for health reasons, but if swelling, aching, and painful legs result, and if there is considerable discomfort, treatment is available. ...