A sodium (Na+) blood test is a standard medical test that checks sodium concentration in your blood. It’s often performed as part of a panel of blood tests. Various medical issues can affect your sodium blood levels. Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography / Getty Images However, this test typicallydoes notprovide good information about whether you should reduce the amount ofsodium in your diet. When levels are off, however, body systems such as your brain and heart can be affected....

It consists of sodium and chloride atoms. In ion form, they are also known aselectrolytes. Sodium chloride is an important nutrient. FG Trade / Getty Images When your sodium chloride level is too low, it must be increased to maintain normal body function. When it is too high, you should reduce it to prevent heart disease and other health problems. Sodium chloride is also used in medical treatments to prevent symptoms ofdehydrationor overhydration....

Solu-Medrol can cause side effects ranging from weight gain and irregular periods to glaucoma and cataracts. It also describes the possible side effects and risks and when the drug cannot be used. What Is Solu-Medrol? Verywell / JR Bee Solu-Medrol is a synthetic corticosteroid that mimics a steroid naturally produced by the body, calledcortisol. Multiple sclerosis is just one condition treated by Solu-Medrol. MS is an autoimmune disease in which immune cells (calledautoantibodies) attack the protective covering of nerve cells....

Soluble fiber dissolves in water and changes to a gel consistency in the intestines. This article explains how soluble fiber can lower cholesterol and the types of soluble fiber found in food sources. It lists a number of foods it’s possible for you to choose to help reduce your cholesterol levels. lovegrove photography / istockphoto Consuming soluble fiber mainly affects your LDLcholesterol. Soluble fiber and insoluble fiber are the two main types of dietary fiber....

Soluble fiber and insoluble fiber are the two types of fiber. Both are important for health benefits, but each performs a different role within your body. The main difference between how soluble fiber and insoluble fiber work is how they react in water. Verywell / Getty Images Soluble fiber dissolves in water, while insoluble fiber does not. Verywell / Getty Images What Is Soluble vs. Insoluble Fiber? Fiber is jot down ofcarbohydrate....

What are the best solutions and ways to treat sleep eating? Learn how to avoid common precipitants such assleep deprivationand about the role of medications in treating sleep eating. Review treatments of sleep eating disorders and finally stop those unwanted midnight snacks. Verywell / Dennis Madamba Verywell / Dennis Madamba What Is Sleep Eating? It is one of the behaviors that can occur in sleep. Along with sleepwalking, sleep talking, andnight terrors, sleep eating is classified as aparasomnia....

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)is a treatment that keeps the air pressure in your airways steady. It prevents your upper airway from collapsing and makes it easier to breathe while you sleep. CPAP is a common treatment forobstructive sleep apneaandacute heart failure. nicolesy/Getty Images CPAP devices are reliable and effective. Even so, some users have problems with the machine that can complicate treatment. This article takes a look at 10 solutions that can help overcome these challenges and improve your CPAP experience....

This test is also referred to as anultrasoundor sonogram. A computer translates the ultrasound waves into an image. A trained technician can see, measure, and identify structures in the image. Verywell / Emily Roberts A healthcare provider then reads the images to help diagnose the issue or problem at hand. This article explains the purpose and limitations of sonography. To demystify the test, this article also explains what to expect before and during the test....

Asore throatis a scratchy or tender sensation in the throat that may worsen when swallowing or talking. Sore throat and cough may occur together, such as with a cold or COVID-19 infection. Noninfectious factors, like allergies, may also cause a sore throat and cough. SDI Productions / Getty Images Strategies for preventing sore throat and cough will also be reviewed. In the meantime, home treatments can help provide comfort. As with OTC pain relievers, speaking with a healthcare professional before starting a new drug is essential....

It may also be sparked by overuse of the vocal cords. Symptoms Sore throat symptomstypically include: Most people withpharyngitishave other symptoms as well. The symptoms accompanyingthroat paincan help you decide whether to call your healthcare provider. Verywell / Emily Roberts They can also help a healthcare provider determine the cause of your pain. Bacterial Severe sore throat may be due to a bacterium called group AStreptococcus. This condition iscaused by bacteria....

However, while soy milk is a nourishing choice for many, it may not be suitable for everyone. Soy contains isoflavones, plant-based compounds with a structure similar to the sex hormone estrogen. Isoflavones also have antioxidant properties. barleyman / Getty Images May Support Weight Maintenance Soy may support weight maintenance through several mechanisms. These isoflavones, particularly genistein and daidzein, can bind to estrogen receptors in the body. Unless you have a soy allergy, drinking soy milk daily in moderation is generally considered safe....

Kowit Lanchu / Getty Images Sparkling coffee may be a new way to jazz up your morning caffeine boost. Coffeehas antioxidants that promote anti-inflammatory gut bacteria. Is Sparkling Coffee Healthier Than Regular Coffee? Kowit Lanchu / Getty Images For those individuals, sparkling coffee may serve as a healthier option. This can be a fun alternative to try, Doerfler said. Is Sparkling Coffee More Hydrating? Using sparkling mineral water means youre getting someelectrolytesalong with the coffees antioxidants, Derocha said....

It may just be that walking quickly or climbing stairs is harder than it was previously. For example, some spasms can be aggravated when moving from your bed into a wheelchair. Flexor spasms can cause your limbs to be held in painful positions and lead to secondary joint pain. Verywell / Cindy Chung Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions. You may even end up needing a combination of some of these medications....