When you lose weight, the fat in your fat cells is broken down into smaller molecules that your body can use for energy. The vast majority of that mass leaves your body as carbon dioxide, which you breathe out. A smaller portion leaves as water, which you lose through urine, sweat, and other bodily fluids. … Read more
Viruses are constantly changing. Most of those changes do nothing at all. But occasionally, a change gives a virus an edge. When that happens, that particular version — called a lineage — can start to outcompete others and become the dominant strain. The question of which viral lineages predominate and why comes down to a … Read more
Uterine rupture is a rare but life-threatening obstetric emergency where the wall of the uterus tears open during pregnancy or labor. It most often occurs in women who have had a previous cesarean section, particularly when they attempt a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC). For the baby, it can cut off oxygen. For the mother, … Read more
Pink eye is an inflammation of the thin clear tissue that lines the inside of your eyelid and covers the white part of your eye. This tissue is called the conjunctiva, which is why the medical name for pink eye is conjunctivitis. You get pink eye when this tissue becomes irritated or infected, which causes … Read more
A push up is one of the most effective upper-body exercises you can do, but only if your body is in the right position. The correct push up starts with a straight line from your head to your heels, hands placed slightly wider than shoulder-width apart, and a controlled descent until your chest nearly touches … Read more
Depression is far more than feeling sad or having a bad week. It is a real medical condition that changes how you think, feel, and function. Depression affects your physical health, your relationships, your work, and your ability to simply enjoy life. It can make everyday tasks feel impossible and, if left untreated, it can … Read more
The puzzle piece and the infinity symbol are the two most recognized symbols associated with autism. The puzzle piece is the older and more controversial symbol, while the infinity symbol represents the neurodiversity movement. Understanding what each symbol means, where they came from, and why opinions differ is important for anyone navigating autism communities today. … Read more
Every few seconds, someone somewhere needs a blood transfusion. The blood they receive often comes from a stranger with Type O blood. This is not random. Type O blood is called the universal donor because it can be given to patients with any other blood type in an emergency. The reason comes down to the … Read more
Replacing a fuse is one of the simplest fixes you can do yourself, whether the lights go out in your living room or your car’s radio suddenly goes silent. The process is the same everywhere: find the blown fuse, pull it out, and put in a new one with the same rating. Before you touch … Read more
Egg nog is a traditional holiday drink, but the question of whether it contains alcohol is more complicated than a simple yes or no. The short answer is that classic egg nog recipes are non-alcoholic, but many commercial and homemade versions do contain alcohol, usually in the form of brandy, rum, or whiskey. The alcohol … Read more