What Is Pneumococcal Meningitis?

Heres everything you should know about pneumococcal meningitis. People can carry theS. pneumoniaebacteria without contracting an infection like meningitis or other pneumococcal disease, like pneumonia. wutwhanfoto / Getty Images In fact, most kids will be carriers ofS. pneumoniaeat some point without getting sick. Scientists arent sure why some people get sick fromS. pneumoniaewhile others are carriers who do not experience any symptoms of pneumococcal disease. However, there are certain factors associated with a higher risk for pneumococcal meningitis....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 359 words · Veronica Perkins

What Is Pneumothorax?

This causes the lung to partially or completely collapse, hence the condition’s other name: collapsed lung. In the United States, 5 million people are treated for it each year. In the past, it occurred most frequently in conjunction with tuberculosis. Jackyenjoyphotography / Getty Images Today, smoking is by far the greatest risk factor. A small pneumothorax may even go unnoticed, since it is not always accompanied by symptoms. If you develop any symptoms of pneumothorax, be sure to seek immediate medical attention....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 378 words · Marc Bruce

What Is Poliosis?

Poliosis can occur at any age; some people may have it from birth. It is unclear how common poliosis is, but its associated conditions are generally rare. This article discusses what poliosis looks like, what causes it, and how to treat it. Granger Wootz / Getty Images Granger Wootz / Getty Images Is Poliosis a Serious Condition? Poliosis itself is not serious. Poliosis is different from graying hair. But it also may indicate medical conditions that require medical care and follow-up....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 211 words · Michael Carter

What Is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects people with ovaries. PCOS causes hormonal imbalance and metabolism problems; it may lead to infertility. PCOS affects about 1 in 10 adults with ovaries. Stígur Már Karlsson /Heimsmyndir/ Getty Images PCOS often causes irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and infertility. This article discusses the symptoms, causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for PCOS. Additional symptoms of PCOS include: What Are the First Signs of PCOS?...

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 497 words · Tiffany Franco

What Is Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP)?

Any of these causes can be serious enough to requireintubation. The tube is connected to a machine to assist with breathing and ensure the blood is getting enoughoxygen. This occurs because a substance called a surfactant prevents alveoli from collapsing, allowing for proper oxygen exchange. Caiaimage / Sam Edwards / Getty Images PEEP works much further into the lungs than CPAP. Healthcare providers often refer to this as acuterespiratory failure....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 184 words · Tracey Carr

What Is Post Electric Shock Syndrome?

Electrical injuriesare uncommon, but when they do occur, they can leave long-lasting effects on the body. This article discusses the symptoms, complications, and long-term effects of post electric shock syndrome. Willowpix / Getty Images What Are Electrical Injuries? Willowpix / Getty Images Electrical currents can damage the heart, muscles, and nerves, and can cause burns on the skin. Often, a blast effect throws a person away from the electrical current....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 429 words · Ian Baker

What Is Post-Scabies Syndrome?

However, some people react to the debris left over after scabies mites die. This is called post-scabies syndrome. This article reviews post-scabies syndrome, including symptoms, length, treatment, and when to seek care. Verywell / Emily Roberts Verywell / Emily Roberts When Does Post-Scabies Syndrome Typically Occur? If you have scabies, it can take about four weeks for medications calledscabicidesto kill the mites. You may need another series of treatments if you are still itching from mites....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 348 words · Michael Mcdonald

What Is Post-Traumatic Headache?

PTH is the most frequently reported complaint following atraumatic brain injury(TBI). The symptoms of PTH vary widely, though most people experience eithermigraineortension headachetype symptoms. This condition is potentially disablingespecially when chronic. SDI Productions / Getty Images Though this condition can take many forms, most people experience symptoms similar to either migraines or tension headaches. These are two types ofprimary headache disorders, headaches that arise in absence of other medical conditions....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 371 words · Jenna Miller

What Is Postpartum Bleeding?

Postpartum bleeding is normal after you deliver your baby. The bloody discharge you have is calledlochia. Lochia may last for four to six weeks, but it should be less bloody after two weeks. Maytee Torres / Getty Images It can come and go for about two months. Excessively heavy and uncontrolled bleeding after giving birth is calledpostpartum hemorrhage. It is more likely with a cesarean delivery (C-section). Other factors can also make someone more likely to have postpartum hemorrhage....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 458 words · Mr. Jacob Scott

What Is Postpartum Depression, and What Helps?

To care for your baby, you must first care for yourself. damircudic / Getty Images Postpartum Depression: Is There a Set Beginning and End? Perinatal depression occurs during pregnancy or just after birth. damircudic / Getty Images Postpartum depression is a specific throw in of perinatal depression that occurs after childbirth and lasts over two weeks. PPD does not have a specificstartingor ending point. What About Pregnancy Causes Depression? This can cause emotional, mental, and behavioral changes....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 389 words · Christina Spencer

What Is Pregnant Sex?

Sexual intimacy is generally safe during pregnancy Sexual intimacy can be part of a healthy pregnancy. Avoiding sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is the chief concern when it comes to risks for most pregnancies. If you have a high-risk pregnancy, discuss pregnancy sex risks with your healthcare provider. Instants / Getty Images Several sexually transmitted infections have the potential to affect pregnancy outcomes. If there is any risk of STI transmission during pregnancy, it is advisable to usebarriers....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 336 words · Dylan Day

What Is Pressure Urticaria?

About 2% to 5% of people experience pressure urticaria, either immediate or delayed. Learn more about pressure urticaria, the types, symptoms, causes, treatment options, and more. It can happen from rubbing or scratching in addition to pressure on the skin. Illustration by Tara Anand for Verywell Health Hives typically go away quickly, usually within a half-hour after they appear. Pressure Urticaria Symptoms Symptoms of pressure urticaria are similar to those of otherurticariatypes....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 187 words · Kim Hampton

What is Progressive Bulbar Palsy?

Progressive bulbar palsy (PBP) is a form ofmotor neuron disease (MND). PBP is considered a phenotype ofamyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). This article discusses the symptoms, causes, treatment, and prognosis for those diagnosed with the condition. Charday Penn / Getty Images Charday Penn / Getty Images Progressive Bulbar Palsy Symptoms Themotor neuronsaffected by PBP are lower motor neurons. These cells send signals from upper motor neurons to the brain to control muscle movements....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 554 words · Tina Thomas