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Category: Medical information

Explore our comprehensive collection of health articles in this category.

What is a CSM Supplement? Understanding the Different Meanings

4 min read
A study on the use of cholestyramine (CSM) for biotoxin illness highlights its effectiveness, but this medical use is often confused with a completely separate product that shares the same acronym. Understanding the profound difference is critical, as a 'CSM supplement' is not a single type of product but rather an abbreviation that points to two very distinct substances in entirely different fields.

Galactose vs. Galactocele: What is a Galactose in the Breast?

5 min read
Lactose is the most abundant carbohydrate in human milk and is composed of two simple sugars: glucose and galactose. A query about what is a galactose in the breast often arises from confusion between this essential milk sugar and a physical breast lump, known as a galactocele.

What is a toxic level of magnesium? Understanding hypermagnesemia

4 min read
A serum magnesium concentration greater than 2.6 mg/dL is considered high, though true toxicity, or hypermagnesemia, typically involves higher levels and is rare in individuals with healthy kidneys. Understanding what is a toxic level of magnesium is crucial for preventing serious health complications, especially for those with pre-existing conditions.

What can be considered an empty stomach?

4 min read
The average time for a meal to exit the stomach and move into the small intestine is between two and four hours, but this can vary depending on what was consumed. However, the precise definition of an empty stomach is nuanced, with specific timelines dictated by the context, such as for certain medications, lab tests, and before surgery.

What Can You Drink While Fasting for Blood Work?

4 min read
According to the Cleveland Clinic, if your healthcare provider tells you to fast for blood work, it means you can't have anything but water for a specific period. Sticking to plain water is crucial for obtaining accurate and reliable results from tests that measure substances like glucose and triglycerides.

Understanding What is a Normal Range for Sodium Levels

5 min read
A healthy blood sodium level is typically between 135 and 145 millimoles per liter (mmol/L), a tightly regulated range that is vital for your body's nerve and muscle function. Understanding what is a normal range for sodium levels is crucial for monitoring your health and recognizing potential issues.

Do IV Fluids Have Calories? A Detailed Breakdown

4 min read
Many standard IV bags, like normal saline, contain zero calories, while others specifically include dextrose (sugar) to provide a calorie source. The simple question, 'Do IV fluids have calories?', has a more nuanced answer that depends entirely on the fluid’s specific composition and medical purpose. For example, a basic hydration drip is very different from a total parenteral nutrition solution designed to provide full caloric intake.