Honest Information. Better Health.

Stem Cells FAQ

The most basic kind of stem cells are the cells that make up an embryo soon after an egg is fertilized. Adult stem cells, in contrast, are 'fully d...

Organ Donation and Transplant

You might have wondered about donating an organ -- either to a friend or relative who needs an organ right now, or by filling out an organ donor ca...

MRI: what You Need to Know

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses powerful magnets, radio waves, and a computer to make detailed pictures of the inside of your ...

Wonders of Water

The IOM report did not specify requirements for water but made general fluid intake recommendations based on survey data of 91 ounces (that's 11-pl...

Creatinine Test

A creatinine test, also called a serum creatinine test, is a way for doctors to measure how well your kidneys are working. Your kidneys filter crea...

What is a CT Scan?

A computed tomography (CT or CAT) scan allows doctors to see inside your body. The computer stacks these scans one on top of the other to create a ...

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Test

If the CBC is the only blood test you’re having, you can eat and drink like you usually would. So the reference range will depend on the lab that h...

What is a Chloride Test?

It’s usually ordered with other blood tests when you are having your cholesterol, blood sugar, and other electrolytes such as sodium and potassium ...

What is a Blood Urea Nitrogen Test?

Your doctor may order a BUN test as part of a routine checkup. If you have a kidney condition, the test is a way to check what your BUN levels are ...

Blood Types

The combination of antigens and antibodies in your blood is the basis of your blood type. AB negative: This is the rarest blood type -- only 0.6% o...

What is a Bicarbonate Blood Test?

Bicarbonate belongs to a group of electrolytes, which help keep your body hydrated and make sure your blood has the right amount of acidity. A bica...

Bacterial and Viral Infections

Also unlike bacteria, most viruses do cause disease, and they're quite specific about the cells they attack. Antibiotics are not effective against ...