Archive for the ‘Common Medical Questions’ Category
The genetic link for alcoholism has never been conclusively proven but there is significant evidence that shows that the children of alcoholics are more likely to abuse alcohol themselves. This may not be inherited in terms of genes alone but rather be a result of environmental factors. Children tend to mimic their parents and growing up in a home where alcohol use and abuse is the norm will undoubtedly impact on future habits with alcohol.
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Dryness of the mouth may not seem like a serious symptom but if it persists and causes other symptoms, then it should be investigated. In most cases, a dry mouth is only short term, usually due to a low fluid intake especially when talking a lot or after an excessive intake of sugary foods. In cases where the dryness can only be alleviated by a constant intake of water, then it can be considered as a symptom of some underlying pathology. In these cases, dryness of the mouth is referred to as xerostomia, indicating that it is considered as a medical symptom rather than just an occasional occurrence.
The mouth cavity is constantly bombarded with different substances when eating or drinking and changes in air flow when breathing or talking. Lined with thin epithelium, the moisture within the mouth is dependent on saliva secreted from the salivary glands. Any disorder that affects the salivary gland will cause a reduction of moisture in the mouth, ultimately leading to mouth dryness.
A foul smelling vaginal odor affects many women and may occur with or without any discharge. Often associated with overgrown pubic hair and poor hygiene, a smelly odor from the vagina may be indicative of a medical disorder that requires treatment in order to be corrected. In these cases, vaginal douching, removing the pubic hair and even good personal hygiene will have a limited effect in reducing the smell.
Vaginal odor is often associated with a “fishy” odor. However a range of other odors may also be present, like a “chemical” odor associated with high concentrations of ammonia, as well as damp and musty odors. It is important to identify if the odor is emanating internally, often carried to the outside by vaginal discharge, or if it is only present on the outside, from the vulva or surrounding areas.