The mitochondria in cells produce energy. In the process they form reactive oxygen species. Reactive oxygen species, also called free radicals or oxygen radicals are used in many metabolic processes that are essential to life. For example, they are are part of enzyme reactions in the body. White blood cells, like neutrophils produce reactive oxygen...
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“I just don’t think about my diabetes. It’s too complicated and I’m too busy.” “I’ve given up on carb counting and just eat whatever.” “If my blood sugar is out of range, I just don’t care.” “Family and friends don’t support me. ” “I feel hopeless.” If these...
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A Basic Metabolic Panel is one of the most common tests that your provider can order. It is used to learn about your kidney function as well as calcium levels and glucose levels. You need to fast 8 to 12 hours before this test. What’s measured in a Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)? Creatinine: Creatinine is a waste product that is filtered out of your...
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Before becoming a heart recipient, Stephanie Zimmerman, RN, MSN was a nurse practitioner caring for pediatric cancer patients. This year, Stephanie** underwent biopsies of her donated heart to find out if it has been damaged by her immune system. Then during this terrible flu season, she spent over a month with a severe case of pneumonia. Susceptibility...
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You have probably had a Complete Blood Count or CBC test done before. It is a blood test that is commonly requested at regular check-ups to give your physician an idea of your general health. The test takes six measurements. Red blood cells (RBC): Your red blood cells carry oxygen to cells and remove carbon dioxide from cells. White blood cells (WBC):...
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