Balance Disorders-HealthQM

What Causes Balance Issues in Older Adults?

A balance issue is a feeling of being unsteady, dizzy, confused, floating, spinning, or lightheaded. There are many disorders and conditions that cause balance issues: 1. Which Part of the Body Controls Balance? The body balance is controlled by different systems and organs including the inner ears, vision, touch, and muscles [1]. The inner ear…

What Controls Body Temperature? HealthQM

What Controls Body Temperature?

The body temperature is controlled by a small area of the brain known as the hypothalamus which maintains the body’s temperature through thermoregulation. The hypothalamus works like a thermostat for the body and maintains the temperature in the range of 97.7-99.5 °F (36.5-37.5 °C) [1]. Hypothermia is when the body temperature is lower than 95…

What Is the Main Cause of Arteriosclerosis? HealthQM

What Is the Main Cause of Arteriosclerosis?

Arteriosclerosis is the thickening of small size arteries caused by an injury of the artery wall, aging, hypertension, or diabetes [1]. The hardening of small size arteries is due to a process known as intimal hyperplasia that is caused by the following lesions: A small or medium-sized artery is composed inside out from the following…

Mood Disorders HealthQM

What Is a Mood Disorder?

A mood disorder is an emotional state or mood characterized by inconsistency or swings in expressing emotions such as sadness, irritability, aggressivity, impulsivity, and excessive happiness. In the US, it was estimated that about 21.4 % of adults would experience a mood disorder in their life [1]. In the UK, it was estimated that 1…

Seasonal Affective Disorder

What Is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of seasonal depression characterized by major depressive episodes in the fall/winter and remissions in spring/summer. The symptoms include persistent low mood, lack of interest, irritability, lack of energy, irritability, longer hours of sleep, withdrawal from social situations, and craving for carbohydrates. It is estimated that 1-10% of the…