Saturday, October 24, 2009

Health Tips for October 24

Health Tip: Warning Signs of Scoliosis

Scoliosis occurs when the spine begins to curve abnormally. It's more common in girls than boys and tends to strike in early adolescence.

The condition rarely causes pain or discomfort, but without treatment a child's appearance can be permanently disfigured, according to the Children's Medical Center of Akron.

Doctors often spot scoliosis during routine physical exams, but parents should also learn its warning signs:

  • Hemline, pant legs or shirt sleeves that appear to be uneven.
  • Uneven arm length.
  • Uneven shoulder heights.
  • A slight limp.
  • Complaints of sore back, numbness or tingling.
  • One breast that's more prominent than the other.

Health Tip: What's Causing Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence is the medical term that describes the frequent or significant leakage of urine.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists offers this list of common causes among women:

  • A urinary tract infection.
  • Weakened or stretched muscles in the pelvis, often the result of pregnancy, childbirth or simply getting older.
  • An abnormality in the urinary tract.
  • A neuromuscular disorder that affects muscle control.
  • A side effect of some medications, notably diuretics.

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