Blood donors voluntarily donate blood for transfusion without payment. Donations can be allogeneic, direct, or autologous, and can be whole blood, platelets, or plasma. Donors must meet certain criteria, including age, weight, and health restrictions. Donations are screened for illnesses and typically take around 10 minutes. Donors are advised to drink fluids and eat before […]
Blood cultures can detect bacteria or infectious agents in the bloodstream, often used when a blood infection is suspected or when infection is difficult to scan. The procedure involves at least two blood draws, and samples are monitored for up to five days to determine the presence of bacteria. Newborns, the elderly, and those with […]
Bloodborne pathogens are agents of diseases found in blood and bodily fluids, such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, malaria, and syphilis. Medical professionals use measures to reduce transmission, and strict protocols are followed in hospitals. Some biologists study bloodborne pathogens for treatment techniques. Bloodborne pathogens are agents of diseases such as viruses that populate […]
Coughing up blood, or hemoptysis, can be caused by various medical conditions. In healthy individuals, it is usually a symptom of a mild bronchial infection, while in smokers, it could signal a more serious condition such as lung cancer. Treatment depends on the underlying condition, and the prognosis varies depending on the severity of the […]
Blood clotting is a normal bodily function that helps heal damaged arteries and veins, but abnormal clot development can be caused by trauma, obesity, genetics, and long-term contraceptive use. Lack or delay in clotting is life-threatening, while excessive clotting can cause organ damage. Genetic or acquired triggers can cause abnormal clot formation, with thrombophilia causing […]
Symptoms of a blood clot in the lung include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing up blood, wheezing, irregular heartbeat, and swelling in the legs. Seek emergency medical attention if experiencing any of these symptoms. Symptoms of a blood clot in the lung can depend on how big the blood clot is and how badly […]
High blood sugar, or hyperglycemia, can be caused by factors such as unhealthy eating habits, lack of exercise, and failure to take insulin medications. Symptoms include vision changes, fatigue, thirst, frequent urination, and difficulty concentrating. Immediate medical attention is needed for serious symptoms such as loss of consciousness. Prevention includes eating healthier, weight management, and […]
Blood tests can help diagnose medical conditions such as anemia, leukemia, and bacterial infections. A complete blood count measures red and white blood cell counts, hemoglobin, platelets, and hematocrit levels. A chemistry panel can detect liver, kidney, or thyroid gland problems, electrolyte imbalances, and pancreatic problems. Other blood panels may be prescribed for specific cases. […]
Blood in sputum can indicate lung or heart problems. Pneumonia, bronchitis, and tuberculosis can cause bloody sputum. Congestive heart failure can also cause this symptom. Treatment depends on accurate diagnosis and may involve medication, rest, and lifestyle changes. Blood in sputum, known medically as hemoptysis, is a term used when a person spits up blood, […]
Nosebleeds, or epistaxis, can be caused by the rupture of blood vessels in the nasal septum. High blood pressure and anticoagulant medications can increase the risk of nosebleeds. Remedies include applying an ice pack and pinching the nose, but severe cases may require external pressure or cauterization. Nosebleeds are known in medical terms as epistaxis […]
Blood sugar levels rise after eating, with highly refined carbs causing a sudden spike. Portable blood glucose meters can test levels, which should not exceed 100 mg/dL two hours after eating. Diabetes can be managed with diet, exercise, and insulin. Consult a doctor for concerns. There is normally a rise in blood sugar after eating, […]
Humans evolved different blood types in response to disease. The ABO system distinguishes four blood types, but there are actually 29 different blood group systems with over 600 distinct antigens. Type O is the universal donor, while type AB is the universal recipient. The Rhesus blood group system is often integrated with the ABO system. […]
Blood screening tests for diseases and conditions such as HIV, pregnancy, blood type, infections, and cancer. Patients visit a doctor’s office or hospital to have blood drawn, and results can be affected by contaminated utensils. Second tests are often used for accuracy. A blood screening is a medical process in which blood is scanned to […]
The fecal occult blood test detects hidden blood in stool and can indicate early signs of colorectal cancer. It is easy to do at home with a kit provided by a doctor, but false positives can occur from certain foods and medications. It is recommended for individuals over 50 to have an annual screening. The […]
Insulin regulates blood sugar levels by helping cells use glucose for energy. Malfunctions in this system occur in diabetes, causing potentially dangerous blood sugar levels. High sugar/carb foods cause excess blood sugar, triggering extra insulin release. Diabetes requires careful monitoring and treatment. There is a direct connection between insulin and blood sugar. Insulin is a […]
Blood tests are used to diagnose celiac disease, an autoimmune and digestive disorder caused by gluten. The celiac blood panel shows higher levels of certain antibodies, which are used in conjunction with clinical symptoms and a biopsy to diagnose the disease. A gluten-free diet is the only treatment. A variety of celiac blood tests, collectively […]
Blood money refers to money paid to a killer for carrying out a contract to kill someone. It can also refer to money paid to survivors as reparation. Contract killing is illegal, and both the killer and employer can be held legally responsible. Blood money payments are illegal and can be laundered through various techniques. […]
Carbon dioxide is a byproduct of metabolism, and excessive or inadequate levels in the blood can indicate lung or kidney function problems or electrolyte imbalances. Bicarbonate, stored in the veins, helps maintain pH levels. Hypercapnia and hypocapnia can be caused by temporary or chronic conditions of the lungs or kidney disease. Carbon dioxide in the […]
Blood sugar spikes can occur after eating and can be dangerous if they exceed 350 mg/dL. Spikes over 500-600 mg/dL can lead to coma or death. Hyperglycemia can cause neurological damage and even death. Drinking water and vinegar can help lower blood sugar during spikes, but medical advice should be sought in severe cases. Blood […]
Blood in semen, or hematospermia, is often caused by testicular or prostate surgery, including prostate biopsies and vasectomies. However, it can also be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as cancer, sexually transmitted diseases, or genital infections. While most cases are harmless and resolve without treatment, severe or persistent bleeding should be checked by […]
