HealthCentralcm.own.healthcentralgeneralhealth77nonenone2001Healthcentral.com is one of the most trusted sources of medical information and up to date news and contains a doctor-approved health encyclopedia of diseases and conditions, the ability to find symptoms and treatments. Also drug information with side effects and interactions./home/sites/healthcentralwww.healthcentral.com/HealthCentral : CrampsCramps - Diseases and Conditions, Treatments, General Health InformationCramps - Diseases and Conditions, Treatments, General Health InformationCrampsexercisefitnessHealthCentralDiseasesCrampshttp://www.healthcentral.com/channel/408/1118.htmlhttp://www.healthcentral.com/channel/408/1118_pf.htmlChannel Page179514Cramps1118.htmlCrampsADAM Encyclopedia (more_index_1_8_7)Pregnancy carePregnancy care2006-11-04 00:54:08.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:16:57.0Pregnancy carePregnancy careBack pain - lowJoint painNausea and vomitingHeartburnHeadacheFrequent or urgent urinationMuscle crampsConstipationDiabetesRubellaProtein - urineAbortion - surgicalFeverVaginal bleeding between periodsThallium stress testThallium and sestamibi stress tests2006-11-04 00:53:51.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:29:41.0Thallium stress testThallium stress testThallium stress testThallium stress testAnterior heart arteries9367 49367 5The coronary arteries supply blood to the heart muscle. The right coronary artery supplies both the left and the right heart; the left coronary artery supplies the left heart.Nuclear scan19100 419100 5A radiotracer is injected into a peripheral vein. As the radiotracer decays, gamma radiation is emitted and is detected by a Gamma camera. When the tracer has collected in the target organ the area is scanned. Radionuclide scans can detect abnormalities such as fractures, bone infections, arthritis, rickets, and tumors that have spread, among other diseases.Chest painHeart attackEmergency contraceptionEmergency contraception2006-11-04 00:52:54.0ADAM2009-11-05 07:48:02.0Emergency contraceptionEmergency contraceptionIntrauterine device17078 417078 5The intrauterine device shown uses copper as the active contraceptive, others use progesterone in a plastic device. IUDs are very effective at preventing pregnancy (less than 2% chance per year for the progesterone IUD, less than 1% chance per year for the copper IUD). IUDs come with increased risk of ectopic pregnancy and perforation of the uterus and do not protect against sexually transmitted disease. IUDs are prescribed and placed by health care providers.Side sectional view of female reproductive system17079 417079 5The female reproductive system includes the vagina, cervix, and uterus shown here in cut section.Birth control methods19068 419068 5Artificial contraception methods work in different ways to decrease the likelihood that sexual intercourse will result in pregnancy. Barrier methods such as condoms (male or female), diaphragms (with or without spermicide) and sponges (with spermicide) have as their first line of defense the physical blocking of the sperm's entry into the uterus. If sperm cannot get into the uterus it cannot fertilize an egg, and pregnancy cannot occur. An IUD works in a different way, by making the uterus toxic to sperm and by disturbing the lining of the uterus so that it won't allow egg implantation. The hormones in oral contraceptives and hormone implants fool the ovaries into refraining from ovulation, and without a fertile egg, pregnancy will not occur. IUDs and oral contraceptives and hormones may be used as emergency contraception in the case of unprotected sex, but neither one will protect against sexually-transmitted disease.Hormone-based contraceptives17101 417101 5The pill works in several ways to prevent pregnancy. The pill suppresses ovulation so that an egg is not released from the ovaries, and changes the cervical mucus, causing it to become thicker and making it more difficult for sperm to swim into the womb. The pill also does not allow the lining of the womb to develop enough to receive and nurture a fertilized egg.This method of birth control offers no protection against sexually-transmitted diseases.Abdominal painFatigueMenstrual periods - heavy, prolonged, or irregularPainful menstrual periodsPap smearPap smear2006-11-04 00:51:27.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:39:52.0Pap smearPap smearPap smearPap smearPap smear17116 417116 5A Pap test is a simple, relatively inexpensive procedure that can easily detect cancerous or precancerous conditions.Uterus19263 419263 5The uterus is a hollow muscular organ located in the female pelvis between the bladder and rectum. The ovaries produce the eggs that travel through the fallopian tubes. Once the egg has left the ovary it can be fertilized and implant itself in the lining of the uterus. The main function of the uterus is to nourish the developing fetus prior to birth.Pap smear9642 49642 5During a Pap smear, cells from the outside and the canal of the cervix are retrieved by gently scraping the outside of the cervix. The Pap smear is performed to detect cancerous or precancerous conditions of the cervix.Female reproductive anatomy1112 41112 5External structures of the female reproductive anatomy include the labium minora and majora, the vagina and the clitoris. Internal structures include the uterus, ovaries and cervix.CervixVaginaCervical cancerPhysical exam frequencyHand or foot spasmsHand or foot spasms2006-11-04 00:34:39.0ADAM2009-11-05 07:46:40.0Hand or foot spasmsHand or foot spasmsHand or foot spasmsMuscular atrophy9680 49680 5Muscular atrophy is the decrease in size and wasting of muscle tissue. Muscles that lose their nerve supply can atrophy and simply waste away.SeizuresAlkalosisVitamin DHypoparathyroidismFatigueWeaknessMuscle crampsParkinson’s diseaseCalcium - ionizedHyperventilationMononeuropathyMultiple sclerosisMuscle crampsMuscle cramps2006-11-04 00:34:38.0ADAM2009-11-05 07:58:12.0Muscle crampsMuscle crampsMuscle crampsTriceps stretch19488 419488 5Bring one of your elbows across your body, towards the opposite shoulder. Use your other hand to bring your elbow closer to your shoulder. Hold for 10 to 20 seconds, then switch sides.Alternate method: raise your arm over your head and bend your elbow all the way so your hand is behind your neck. Use your other arm to stabilize your elbow. Hold for 10-20 seconds, then switch sides. You should feel either of these stretches in the back of your arm.Hip stretch19486 419486 5Stand with one foot in front of you and your weight equally distributed between them. Bend both knees and lift your back heel off the ground. Bring your pelvis forward so your back is flat. (You can lean against a wall or column for balance.)Hold for 10-20 seconds, then repeat on other side. You should feel the stretch in the front of the hip and into your abdomen.Chest stretch19483 419483 5Clasp your hands behind your back with your palms facing up. Pull your hands down and press your shoulder blades together. Your chest should stick out. Hold for 10-20 seconds. You should feel the stretch in your upper arms and chest.Thigh stretch19487 419487 5Hold on to something for balance. Standing on one leg, grasp the foot of the other leg. Keep your knee pointing down. Pull up with light pressure. You do NOT need to pull up all the way to your buttocks. If it feels uncomfortable or painful, you are putting too much strain on the knee joint.Hold your foot behind you for 10-20 seconds, then switch sides. You should feel the stretch in the front of the thigh.Hamstring stretch19485 419485 5Extend one leg in front of you with the foot flexed. Bend your other knee and lean back slightly. Your pelvis should be tilted forward. Keep your upper body upright as you hold the stretch for 10-20 seconds, then switch sides.You should feel the stretch up the back of your extended leg (all the way up your calf and thigh).NOTE: Your supporting leg may get tired, as you have to balance your weight on it.Groin stretch19484 419484 5Stand with your legs wide apart. Shift your weight to one side, bending your knee somewhat. Do not let your knee bend beyond your ankle; in other words, you should be able to look down and still see your toes. You should feel the stretch in your opposite leg, which remains extended. Both of your feet stay flat on the ground facing forward. Hold for 10-20 seconds, then lean to the other side.Muscle twitchingAlcoholismDehydrationHypothyroidismAcute kidney failureMagnesium in dietCalcium in dietBlockage of leg arteriesBlockage of leg arteries2006-11-04 00:34:30.0ADAM2007-10-20 15:34:23.0Blockage of leg arteriesBlockage of leg arteriesBlockage of leg arteriesLeg painMuscle crampsErection problemsAtherosclerosisPeripheral artery disease - legsLeg painLeg pain2006-11-04 00:34:27.0ADAM2009-11-05 07:32:40.0Leg painLeg painLeg painLower leg muscles17238 417238 5The muscular components of the lower leg include the gastrocnemius, soleus, peroneus longus, tibialis anterior, extensor digitorum longus, and the achilles tendon.Shin splints19482 419482 5Shin splints is the common name for the medical condition called medial tibial stress syndrome in which pain occurs along the tibia (shin bone) in the front of the lower leg. The pain is a result of small tears in the area the lower leg muscles' attachment to the tibia. Shin splints are typically caused from intense or vigorous athletic activity and can be resolved with adequate rest, stretching and modifying your exercise routine.Retrocalcaneal bursitis9830 49830 5Retrocalcaneal bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa at the back of the heel bone. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion and a lubricant between tendons and muscles sliding over bone. Repetitive or over use of the ankle, by doing excessive walking, running, or jumping, can cause this bursa to become irritated and inflamed. Symptoms of bursitis include pain in the heel, especially with walking, running or when the area is touched.Leg pain (Osgood-Schlatter)17240 417240 5Leg pain in older children or young adolescents can occur for many reasons. An Osgood-Schlatter lesion results from continued trauma to the anterior tibial bone and causes a visible lump below the knee.Varicose veins19705 419705 5Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted, painful superficial veins resulting from poorly functioning valves. Varicose veins usually occur in the veins of the legs, although it may occur elsewhere. It is a common condition, affecting mostly women.Blockage of leg arteriesFoot painKnee painJoint painHip painMuscle achesCharley horseStrainsTendinitisShin splintsDeep venous thrombosisOsteomyelitisCellulitisArthritisGoutPeripheral neuropathyNumbness and tinglingVaricose veinsLegg-Calve-Perthes diseaseOsteosarcomaSlipped capital femoral epiphysisMuscle achesMuscle pain can be a sign of conditions affecting your whole body, like some infections (including the flu).Muscle aches2006-11-04 00:34:23.0ADAM2009-11-05 07:45:58.0Massage 83
massage 83
Muscle achesMuscle achesMuscle achesMuscular atrophy9680 49680 5Muscular atrophy is the decrease in size and wasting of muscle tissue. Muscles that lose their nerve supply can atrophy and simply waste away.Muscle pain19676 419676 5Muscle pain is most frequently related to tension, overuse, or muscle injury from exercise or physically demanding work. Muscle aches and pains are common and can involve more than one muscle at the same time. Muscle pain can also involve the soft tissues that surround muscles. These structures, which are often referred to as connective tissues, include ligaments, tendons, and fascia (thick bands of tendons).Muscle crampsJoint painThe fluSystemic lupus erythematosusFibromyalgiaSprainsDermatomyositisElectrolytesLyme diseaseMalariaAbscessPoliomyelitisRocky Mountain spotted feverTrichinosisPolymyalgia rheumaticaPolymyositis - adultRhabdomyolysisPainful menstrual periodsDo you feel sharp pain during menstruation? Click to learn more about painful menstrual periods.Painful menstrual periods2006-11-04 00:33:52.0ADAM2009-11-05 07:29:34.0Painful menstrual periodsPainful menstrual periodsPainful menstrual periodsPainful periods (dysmenorrhea)17054 417054 5Primary dysmenorrhea is a normal cramping of the lower abdomen caused by hormone-induced uterine contractions before the period. Secondary dysmenorrhea may be caused by abnormal conditions such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease. Unless one of these potentially serious conditions is present, the treatment for painful periods is pain relief. If a hormone imbalance is detected, birth control pills may restore the proper hormone levels.Relieving PMS17124 417124 5The cause of premenstrual syndrome is not known but severe symptoms have been shown to be responsive to lifestyle changes. Getting exercise several times a week, eating a balanced diet, getting adequate sleep, and reducing or eliminating caffeine and alcohol are some of the changes most often recommended.Uterus19263 419263 5The uterus is a hollow muscular organ located in the female pelvis between the bladder and rectum. The ovaries produce the eggs that travel through the fallopian tubes. Once the egg has left the ovary it can be fertilized and implant itself in the lining of the uterus. The main function of the uterus is to nourish the developing fetus prior to birth.Female reproductive anatomy1112 41112 5External structures of the female reproductive anatomy include the labium minora and majora, the vagina and the clitoris. Internal structures include the uterus, ovaries and cervix.Stress and anxietyEndometriosisUterine fibroidsOvarian cystsPelvic inflammatory disease (PID)Premenstrual syndromeAbdominal painAbdominal pain2006-11-04 00:33:19.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:14:49.0Abdominal painAbdominal painAbdominal painDigestive system1090 4Find an image showing the digestive system and its component parts.1090 5The esophagus, stomach, large and small intestine, aided by the liver, gallbladder and pancreas convert the nutritive components of food into energy and break down the non-nutritive components into waste to be excreted.Anatomical landmarks, front view1070 41070 5There are three body views (front, back and side) that may be helpful if you are uncertain of a body area. Many areas are referred to by both descriptive and technical names. For example, the back of the knee is called the popliteal fossa. However, areas like the "flank" may not have both names, so the location may be unclear.Appendicitis19580 419580 5The appendix is a small finger-shaped tube that branches off the first part of the large intestine. The appendix can become inflamed or infected causing pain in the lower right part of the abdomen.Kidney function19615 419615 5Blood from the aorta reaches the kidneys so it can be filtered and cleaned. Among other functions, the kidneys remove toxins, metabolic waste, and excess ions from the blood which leaves the body in the form of urine.Abdominal quadrants19578 419578 5Since the abdominal area contains many different organs it is divided in smaller areas. One division method, uses one median sagittal plane and one transverse plane that passes through the umbilicus at right angles. This method divides the abdomen into four quadrants. Medical personnel can easily refer to these quadrants when describing pain or injury regarding a victim.Abdominal organs19574 419574 5The process of digesting food is accomplished by many organs in the body. Food is pushed by the esophagus into the stomach. The stomach mixes the food and begins the breakdown of proteins. The stomach propels the food then into the small intestine. The small intestine further digests food and begins the absorption of nutrients. Secretions from the pancreas in the small intestine help neutralize the acid in the intestine to provide a proper environment for the enzymes to function. Bile from the gallbladder and liver emulsify fat and enhance the absorption of fatty acids. The large intestine temporarily stores and concentrates the remainder until it is passed out as waste from the body.AppendicitisIntestinal obstructionAcute cholecystitisGallstonesConstipationAortic dissectionDiverticulitisFood allergyFood poisoningGastroesophageal reflux in infantsHeartburnIndigestionGroin lumpCrohn's diseaseUlcerative colitisIntussusception (children)Irritable bowel syndromeKidney stonesLactose intoleranceGiardiasisSickle cell anemiaUlcersUrinary tract infection - adultsViral gastroenteritisPeritonitisColic and cryingPainful menstrual periodsEndometriosisUterine fibroidsOvarian cystsOvarian cancerPelvic inflammatory disease (PID)PneumoniaColon cancerSomatization disorderStrep throatCeliac disease - nutritional considerationsCeliac disease - nutritional considerations2006-11-04 00:24:07.0ADAM2009-11-05 07:46:05.0Celiac disease - nutritional considerationsCeliac disease - nutritional considerationsCeliac disease - nutritional considerationsCeliac disease - nutritional considerationsCeliac disease - nutritional considerationsCeliac sprue - foods to avoid19292 419292 5Celiac sprue is an inflammatory condition caused by intolerance to gluten, a substance found in wheat and other grains. The inability to digest and process this substances may lead to inflammation of the intestines, vitamin deficiencies due to lack of absorption of nutrients, and bowel abnormalities. Gluten may be found in many foods, especially processed foods and baked goods. Breads, cakes, desserts that use thickeners, alcoholic beverages (except wine), cereals and pastas may all contain gluten.Autoimmune disordersCeliac disease - sprueEnterotoxinEnterotoxin2006-11-04 00:22:54.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:13:54.0EnterotoxinEnterotoxinFood poisoningMenstrual cramp reliefMenstrual cramp relief2006-11-04 00:20:41.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:13:16.0Menstrual cramp reliefMenstrual cramp reliefRelief of menstrual cramps9622 49622 5An effective treatment for relieving menstrual cramps is aspirin or ibuprofen. Exercise may help relieve cramps by reducing stress.Painful menstrual periodsAbdominal pain diagnosisAbdominal pain diagnosis2006-11-04 00:19:16.0ADAM2007-10-20 15:58:12.0Abdominal pain diagnosisAbdominal pain diagnosisDigestive system1090 4Find an image showing the digestive system and its component parts.1090 5The esophagus, stomach, large and small intestine, aided by the liver, gallbladder and pancreas convert the nutritive components of food into energy and break down the non-nutritive components into waste to be excreted.Anatomical landmarks, front view1070 41070 5There are three body views (front, back and side) that may be helpful if you are uncertain of a body area. Many areas are referred to by both descriptive and technical names. For example, the back of the knee is called the popliteal fossa. However, areas like the "flank" may not have both names, so the location may be unclear.Normal abdominal anatomy8606 48606 5The major abdominal digestive organs are the liver, the stomach, the small and large intestines, the gallbladder and the pancreas.Abdominal painKidney stonesAppendicitisPeptic ulcerBirth control and family planningBirth control and family planning2006-11-04 00:19:06.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:11:19.0Birth control and family planningBirth control and family planningThe diaphragm17049 417049 5A diaphragm is a flexible rubber cup that is filled with spermicide and self-inserted over the cervix prior to intercourse. The device is left in place several hours after intercourse. The diaphragm is a prescribed device fitted by a health care professional and is more expensive than other barrier methods such as condoms.Intrauterine device17078 417078 5The intrauterine device shown uses copper as the active contraceptive, others use progesterone in a plastic device. IUDs are very effective at preventing pregnancy (less than 2% chance per year for the progesterone IUD, less than 1% chance per year for the copper IUD). IUDs come with increased risk of ectopic pregnancy and perforation of the uterus and do not protect against sexually transmitted disease. IUDs are prescribed and placed by health care providers.The male condom17082 417082 5The male condom is a barrier contraceptive made of latex or polyurethane. The condom must be fitted over the erect penis. The condom is sold over-the-counter and when used properly is an inexpensive, effective barrier to pregnancy and sexually-transmitted disease.Birth control pill - series2007-03-27 13:09:00.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:11:17.0Tubal ligation17136 417136 5Surgical sterilization which permanently prevents the transport of the egg to the uterus by means of sealing the fallopian tubes is called tubal ligation, commonly called "having one's tubes tied". This operation can be performed laparoscopically or in conjunction with a Cesarean section, after the baby is delivered. Tubal ligation is considered permanent but reversals can be done in many cases.Side sectional view of female reproductive system17079 417079 5The female reproductive system includes the vagina, cervix, and uterus shown here in cut section.Barrier methods of birth control - series2007-03-27 13:08:59.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:11:17.0Before and after vasectomy10017 410017 5Vasectomy is a simple, painless procedure that is very effective in preventing pregnancy. Men usually have no side effects from vasectomy, and no change in sexual performance or function.Tubal ligation - seriesTubal ligation - series2007-03-27 13:08:36.0ADAM2009-11-05 08:32:19.0Vaginal ring19704 419704 5The vaginal ring is a flexible ring about 2 inches in diameter that is inserted into the vagina. It releases progestin and estrogen into the body to avoid pregnancy. The woman inserts it herself and it stays in the vagina for 3 weeks. Then, she takes it out for one week to have her period. Like other hormone methods, a prescription from a doctor is required.The cervical cap17033 417033 5The cervical cap is a flexible rubber cup-like device that is filled with spermicide and self-inserted over the cervix prior to intercourse. The device is left in place several hours after intercourse. The cap is a prescribed device fitted by a health care professional and is more expensive than other barrier methods such as condoms.Hormone-based contraceptives17101 417101 5The pill works in several ways to prevent pregnancy. The pill suppresses ovulation so that an egg is not released from the ovaries, and changes the cervical mucus, causing it to become thicker and making it more difficult for sperm to swim into the womb. The pill also does not allow the lining of the womb to develop enough to receive and nurture a fertilized egg.This method of birth control offers no protection against sexually-transmitted diseases.Ectopic pregnancyFemale condomsCervixTubal ligationVasectomyPenisVaginaMcArdle syndromeMcArdle syndrome (glycogen storage disease type V)2006-11-03 23:14:38.0ADAM2009-11-05 09:32:50.0McArdle syndromeMcArdle syndromeMcArdle syndromeMcArdle syndromeEnzymeAutosomal recessiveNews (more_index_1_1_1)FYI (more_index_1_1_3)Health Tip: Heat Cramps Shouldn't Be IgnoredHere's what to do if you get them2007-08-14 00:00:00.0HealthDay2008-05-05 22:15:21.0AbdominoplastyAcidophilusAdhesionsAmebiasisHealing Brains and Bones
Two big ideas: researchers are finding ways to save injured brains -- and injured bones.
Acupuncture For OsteoarthritisCheck out this video to find out how this ancient treatment is helping in new ways.Better Hip SurgeryWatch this video to learn more about the innovations being made in the field of hip replacement.Thermal Scans Detect Arthritis SoonerLearn about a technology breakthrough which helps to identify and diagnose arthritis far earlier.Gastroesophageal Reflux DiseasePPI Therapy

Proton pump inhibitors are drugs which reduce acid secretion of the stomach. Watch this animation to see how PPI helps block acid.

 

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