Blood oxygen levels should be at least 95% to meet the body’s needs. Low levels can cause tissue death and are caused by lung or heart malfunction. A pulse oximeter can assess levels non-invasively, and treatment involves increasing oxygen intake. Diagnostic tests may be ordered to determine the cause. A blood oxygen level is a […]
Choosing a blood glucose meter depends on personal needs, but key elements such as design and use can help make a decision. Meters vary in size, cost, ease of use, and some are specially made for the visually impaired. Some require less blood to test accurately and some keep a record of test results. There […]
Blood is a complex mixture of plasma, cells, hormones, lipids, amino acids, dissolved gases, waste materials, proteins, electrolytes, carbohydrates, and vitamins. Understanding normal blood composition is important for medical care and detecting abnormalities. Blood composition changes constantly and can reveal clues about a patient’s overall health. Blood tests are used to analyze blood composition. Blood […]
Cerebral blood flow is the circulation of blood through the brain, regulated to remain at a constant level. Blood carbon dioxide levels affect cerebral blood flow, and variations in blood flow in different regions of the brain are related to metabolic activity. Impaired cerebral blood flow is associated with conditions such as hypothyroidism. Cerebral blood […]
Brown blood during menstruation is usually old blood that has taken longer to release. It can also be caused by ovulation or hormonal changes from contraceptive pills. However, it can be a sign of infection or other medical conditions if accompanied by pain or unusual discharge. Brown spotting instead of a regular period could be […]
Red blood cells in urine can indicate bladder or kidney problems. Hematuria, or abnormal levels of red blood cells, can have various causes, including infection, injury, or tumors. Treatment depends on the underlying cause, and follow-up testing is important to ensure complete resolution. Red blood cells in the urine can be a sign of a […]
Blood contains different cells with antigens that can cause an immune response if recognized as foreign. Blood transfusions must be checked for antigenic compatibility, with the ABO and rhesus systems commonly used. ABO typing depends on genes inherited from parents, while rhesus factor determines if blood is Rh positive or negative. Mismatched blood can cause […]
Blood is made up of cells and plasma, and is transported through blood vessels. Red blood cells carry oxygen, while white blood cells and platelets fight disease. Red blood cells have a unique shape and contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen. They are highly efficient at transporting oxygen due to their shape and high concentration of […]
Blood clots in the placenta can be caused by thrombophilia or improper formation of the placenta during pregnancy, leading to birth defects, miscarriage, or stillbirth. Thrombophilia can be treated with blood-thinning medications during pregnancy, but other causes may not be discovered until after birth or miscarriage. Women with a history of thrombophilia face increased risks […]
Certain vitamins, including B vitamins, vitamins A, C, D, and E, can help control or prevent high blood pressure. They can be found in certain foods or taken as dietary supplements, but proper dosages should be consulted with a doctor. Vitamin A manages blood pressure by preventing the buildup of bad cholesterol, while B vitamins […]
High blood sugar in the morning is caused by hormones that help the body feel energized and a carbohydrate-rich breakfast. For people with diabetes, insulin prevents energy absorption. Avoiding refined carbohydrates, eating a high-protein breakfast, exercising, and getting enough rest can help stabilize blood sugar levels. Having high blood sugar in the morning is not […]
A nicotine blood test detects recent tobacco use, but its reliability is limited as nicotine only stays in the bloodstream for a short time. Insurance companies may require the test before approving coverage, while parents can use it to check if their children are using tobacco. The test is most accurate when conducted on hair […]
Artificial blood is used in medical procedures and to treat certain conditions. There are two main categories: oxygen therapy and volume expanders. Perfluorocarbons and hemoglobin are used to transport oxygen. Hemoglobin-based artificial blood is most pursued by the US military. Artificial blood is a basic filler for the human cardiovascular system used in certain medical […]
Blood transfusions of red blood cells or plasma do not change DNA. White blood cells contain DNA, but are usually removed from donated blood. Whole blood transfusions are rare and donor DNA would not survive long enough to affect recipient DNA. Bone marrow transfusions can change DNA. Getting a standard blood transfusion cannot and will […]
Blood is made up of three main components: blood cells, plasma, and platelets. Red blood cells carry oxygen, white blood cells fight infections, and platelets help with clotting. Plasma transports components throughout the body and contains secondary elements like nutrients and proteins. All components work together for ideal health. Blood is primarily made up of […]
Exercises to lower blood pressure include aerobic exercises like walking, jogging, and swimming, as well as yoga and Pilates to reduce stress. Consult a doctor before starting a new routine, and make dietary changes to promote weight loss. Exercises to lower blood pressure may include aerobic exercises to help promote weight loss, such as walking, […]
Blood clots during menstruation are normal, but heavy flow, hormonal imbalances, fibroid tumors, and pelvic inflammatory disease can increase clotting. Contraceptive methods can also cause clotting. Seek medical attention if clotting frequency increases. Passing blood clots during a period is normal, because the thickened lining of the uterus is shed and pushed out. Other reasons […]
Blood glucose test strips are used by people with type 2 diabetes to self-monitor their blood sugar levels. The strip is inserted into a meter, which calculates blood sugar levels. Some strips have a code to calibrate the meter, and self-tests are usually conducted before and after meals and at bedtime. Blood glucose test strips […]
Menstrual blood clots can be caused by hormonal changes, fibroids, endometriosis, or an imbalance in clotting factors. Miscarriage can also be a cause. Heavy flow and persistent clots should be evaluated by a doctor. Hormonal changes can also produce clots, but birth control pills can help regulate periods. Menstrual blood clots can be caused by […]
Blood disorders prevent normal blood function and can include issues with production, clotting, and malformed or infected cells. Anemia is a common disorder that causes fatigue, while sickle cell anemia causes pain. Hemophilia prevents clotting, and blood-borne diseases can infect vital organs. Early detection is key for successful treatment. Blood disorders are physical conditions that […]
