featured body systems video

How Dreams Work: History

Dreams are as real to the sleeping brain as waking life; the dream state is the original virtual reality. But why do people dream? Check out this video to learn more about the history, common themes and causes of dreams.

Recommend

You need the Flash Player version 8.0.0.0 or higher and a JavaScript enabled browser to view this site

browse videos in
body systems

How Sunburns Work (0:58)

Sunburns can be painful, and that's why physicians recommend using sunscreen to prevent sunburn from overexposure to the UV radiation of the sun. See how sunburn and sunscreen work in this HowStuffWorks video.

Understanding the Brain: Development (0:57)

We have known for decades that genes play a part in the brain's function, but research also shows a baby's environment plays just as large a role. Brought to you by the Discovery Channel.

Correcting vision problems during sleep (1:57)

A team of researchers in Ohio State's College of Optometry are developing a new system called corneal refractive therapy, which works to correct vision problems during sleep, leaving vision greatly improved when patients... More »

Al Seckel on How The Brain Works (16:30)

Watch this video about how the brain works on HowStuffWorks. Cognitive Neuroscientist Al Seckel uses visual illusions to explain why our brains respond differently to varying images. Learn about the brain's visual perceptions in this video from TED.

Elderly Can See Longer with NeoVista (4:04)

Watch this video about demacular degeneration and the elderly on HowStuffWorks. The United States' aging population will grow to more than 50 million people by 2020, in which case diseases like macular degeneration will become an epidemic. See how... More »

recently added

Brink: Understanding Memory (6:45)

How can lab rats help scientists to discover how memory works? Can the use of an inhibitor drug make humans forget what they know? Learn more in this video from The Science Channel's "Brink."

Brink: No More Mistakes (5:46)

Imagine a world where you would no longer make mistakes. Find out more about the latest research into brain activity in this video from The Science Channel's "Brink."

National Body Challenge: Lowering Cholesterol (0:41)

Dr. Francine Kaufman discusses cholesterol and how to lower it.

How It's Made: Blood Products (3:01)

Have you ever wondered what becomes of donated blood? This clip from The Science Channel's "How It's Made" follows the blood trail from initial blood testing to creation of the final products.

Time Warp: Tongue Trap (0:16)

How long does it take for pain to travel from tongue to brain? Roughly 90 milliseconds, as shown by The Freak Show Deluxe's Thomas Nealeigh.

Brink: Valentine's Brain Scan (4:14)

Don't believe in love at first sight? We'll show you how new research into brain waves proves that love really can last a lifetime. Learn more in this clip from the Science Channel's "Brink."

Understanding the Brain: Chemistry and Love (2:54)

On Discovery Channel's series,"Understanding the Amazing Brain," learn how brain chemistry causes love.

Need to Know on the Go: Brain and Sex (1:10)

What is sexy? The brain's "pleasure center," may help us find out. Learn more in this video from Science Channel's "Need to Know on the Go."

Body Invaders: What is the Back (1:52)

The spine is an amazing piece of architecture that is often neglected until we get a backache. Learn more about the spine in this video from Discovery Health's "Body Invaders."

Cleveland Clinic 2008: LDL Cholesterol (1:40)

A new Belgian study indicates that people with higher levels of LDL are at a greater risk of developing serious heart problems. Take a look at this Discovery Health clip to learn more about LDL cholesterol.