What causes watery semen, and does it affect fertility?   Reviewed by Jamie Eske and Alana Biggers, MD, MPH Semen is typically a thick, white fluid, but it can vary in color and consistency. Watery semen can occur due to low sperm count, lifestyle factors, and nutritional deficiencies. In this article, we explore some of the possible causes of watery or clear semen. We also discuss whether watery semen can affect fertility, the meaning of discolored semen, when to see a doctor, and treatment. Low sperm count Having a low sperm count does not automatically mean that a person is infertile. The World Health Organization (WHO) define low sperm count, or oligospermia, as producing fewer than 15 million sperm per milliliter of semen. Having a low sperm count can make it more difficult for a person to conceive but does not necessarily mean that a person is infertile. There is not always an obvious cause for having a low sperm count. However, some genetic conditions, ...

What causes dry skin on a baby's face? Reviewed by Gillian D'Souza and Karen Gill, MD It is relatively common for newborns and older babies to have some dry skin on their faces. In most cases this dry skin is harmless, and it tends to clear up without treatment. Babies often have dry skin on their faces because their skin is more sensitive than adults. Their skin may be adjusting to the environment outside the womb, or it may be reacting to allergens in products or clothes. Dehydration and skin conditions can also cause dry skin. Most cases are minor, temporary, and of little cause for concern, though some may need specialist advice, treatment and continued observation. The following sections look at the causes of dry skin in a baby's face and treatments. 1. Newborn skin peeling It is common for babies to have dry skin on their face occasionally. It is common for newborn babies to have peeling skin for a week or two after birth. In the womb, amniotic f...

Is it safe to mix Flagyl and alcohol? Reviewed By Jessica Caporuscio, PharmD and Alan Carter, PharmD Drinking alcohol while taking Flagyl can cause serious side effects. Doctors and pharmacists advise people to avoid alcohol entirely while using the medication in any form, including oral Flagyl tablets and topical Flagyl creams. Flagyl is an antibiotic that treats many infections, including abdominal and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). While not all antibiotics interact with alcohol, drinking while using certain types — including Flagyl — can have serious health consequences. People should generally avoid alcohol for up to 3 days after the last dose of Flagyl. In this article, we look at what Flagyl is and the risks of mixing it with alcohol. We also describe when it is safe to drink alcohol again. What is Flagyl? A doctor may prescribe Flagyl to treat various infections. Flagyl is the brand name of the antibiotic metronidazole. Metronidazole is part of ...

Diabetic shock..... What you need to know By Jenna Fletcher Reviewed by Maria Prelipcean, MD Diabetic shock occurs when blood sugar levels drop dangerously low. Diabetic shock is not a medical term, but people often use it to describe a state of severe hypoglycemia that requires another person's help. People with mild low blood sugar, which doctors call insulin reaction or hypoglycemia, are usually conscious and can treat themselves. People experiencing hypoglycemia often experience headaches, dizziness, sweating, shaking, and a feeling of anxiety. When a person experiences diabetic shock, or severe hypoglycemia, they may lose consciousness, have trouble speaking, and experience double vision. Early treatment is essential because blood sugar levels that stay low for too long can lead to seizures or diabetic coma. Hypoglycemia can sometimes happen rapidly and may even occur when a person follows their diabetes treatment plan. Knowing the symptoms, potential complicat...