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Acne
Acne vulgaris, commonly known as acne, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil (sebum) and dead skin cells. It leads to various types of lesions, including blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, cysts, and nodules, primarily on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders. Causes: Acne develops due to a […]
Acoustic Neuroma (Vestibular Schwannoma)
An acoustic neuroma, also known as a vestibular schwannoma, is a rare, non-cancerous (benign) tumor that develops on the main nerve leading from your inner ear to your brain. This nerve, called the vestibulocochlear nerve (or 8th cranial nerve), has two parts: one involved in hearing and the other in balance. As the tumor grows, […]
Acquired Immune Deficiencies
Acquired immune deficiencies are conditions that develop after birth, in which the body’s immune system becomes weakened or compromised, making it less able to fight off infections and certain diseases. Unlike primary (congenital) immunodeficiencies, which are inherited, acquired deficiencies are typically caused by external factors or underlying medical conditions. Causes: Acquired immune deficiencies can result […]
Alzheimer’s Disease
Dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease, commonly known as Alzheimer’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that causes brain cells to degenerate and die. This leads to a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral, and social skills that affects a person’s ability to function independently. It is the most common cause of dementia, a general term for […]
Amaurosis Fugax
Amaurosis fugax, often described as a “transient monocular blindness,” is a temporary loss of vision in one eye. It is characterized by a sudden, painless dimming or blacking out of vision in one eye, often described as a curtain or shade coming down over the eye, which typically lasts from a few seconds to several […]
Anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the blood has a lower than normal number of red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body’s tissues, so anemia can cause fatigue, weakness, and other symptoms. Causes: Anemia has several causes, which can be grouped into three main categories: Blood loss: Acute blood loss: This […]
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disease characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways in the lungs, leading to recurring episodes of wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may be triggered by various factors. Causes: The exact cause of asthma is not fully understood, […]
Atrial Fibrillation
Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) is a common type of irregular and often rapid heartbeat (arrhythmia) that can lead to serious complications like stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related problems. In AFib, the heart’s two upper chambers (atria) beat chaotically and irregularly, out of coordination with the two lower chambers (ventricles). Causes: AFib can be caused by […]
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity that interfere with functioning or development. It typically begins in childhood and can persist into adolescence and adulthood. Causes: The exact cause of ADHD is not fully understood, but research suggests it is a complex interplay of genetic, neurobiological, […]
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Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH), commonly known as an enlarged prostate, is a non-cancerous increase in prostate gland size. The prostate gland is located just below the bladder in men and surrounds the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body. As the prostate enlarges, it can press on the urethra, […]
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder, formerly known as manic-depressive illness, is a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These mood shifts can affect energy, activity levels, judgment, behavior, and the ability to carry out day-to-day tasks. Causes: The exact cause of bipolar disorder is not fully […]
Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a chronic lung condition characterized by permanent widening (dilation) and scarring of the airways (bronchi). This damage leads to a buildup of mucus, making the lungs more susceptible to infection and inflammation. Over time, recurring infections and inflammation can further damage the airways, creating a cycle that worsens the condition. Causes: Bronchiectasis typically […]
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Cataracts
Cataracts are a common eye condition characterized by the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which lies behind the iris and pupil. This clouding leads to blurred vision, difficulty seeing at night, and increased sensitivity to glare, eventually impairing vision. Causes: Cataracts typically develop slowly over time, and their primary cause is aging. However, several […]
Cerebral Palsy
Cerebral palsy is a group of disorders that affect a person’s ability to move and maintain balance and posture. Cerebral palsy is the most common motor disability in childhood. “Cerebral” means having to do with the brain, and “palsy” means weakness or problems with using the muscles. It is caused by abnormal brain development or […]
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease that makes it difficult to breathe. It is characterized by airflow limitation that is not fully reversible. The term COPD encompasses two main conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis, and many people with COPD have both. Causes: The primary cause of COPD is long-term exposure to […]
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is a common heart condition that occurs when the major blood vessels that supply the heart with blood, oxygen, and nutrients (the coronary arteries) become damaged and narrowed. This damage is usually due to the buildup of fatty deposits, called plaque, inside the arteries (atherosclerosis). Atherosclerosis can reduce blood flow to […]
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Dermatitis
Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin. It can manifest in various forms, often characterized by itchy, dry skin or a rash on swollen, reddened skin. It can be acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). Causes: Dermatitis can be caused by a variety of factors, and the specific cause often depends on the […]
Diabetes Mellitus
Diabetes Mellitus, commonly known as diabetes, is a chronic metabolic disease characterized by high blood sugar (glucose) levels. Glucose is vital to your health because it’s an important source of energy for the cells that make up your muscles and tissues, and it’s your brain’s primary fuel. The body’s ability to produce or use insulin, […]
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy is a type of nerve damage that can occur if you have diabetes. High blood sugar (glucose) can injure nerve fibers throughout your body, but diabetic neuropathy most often damages nerves in the legs and feet. Depending on the affected nerves, symptoms can range from pain and numbness in your extremities to problems […]
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Fatty Liver Disease
Fatty liver disease, also known as hepatic steatosis, is a condition characterized by the buildup of excess fat in the liver cells. While it’s normal to have some fat in your liver, too much can lead to inflammation, liver damage, and potentially more serious conditions like cirrhosis or liver failure. Causes: Fatty liver disease can […]
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep problems, memory and mood issues. It is a complex condition with no known cure, but symptoms can be managed. Causes: The exact causes of fibromyalgia are unknown, but it likely involves a combination of factors: Genetics: People with a family history […]
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Gastritis
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining. It can be acute (sudden and severe) or chronic (developing slowly over time). In some cases, gastritis can lead to ulcers and an increased risk of stomach cancer. Causes: Gastritis occurs when the protective lining of the stomach becomes inflamed. Several factors can cause or contribute to […]
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common mental health condition characterized by excessive, uncontrollable, and often irrational worry about everyday things. This worry is persistent and can interfere significantly with daily life, even when there’s little or no reason to be anxious. Causes: The exact cause of GAD is not fully understood, but it likely […]
Glaucoma
Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, a bundle of nerve fibers that connects the eye to the brain. This damage is often caused by abnormally high pressure inside the eye (intraocular pressure), but it can also occur with normal eye pressure. If left untreated, glaucoma can lead to irreversible […]
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Hay Fever
Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic reaction that occurs when the body’s immune system overreacts to airborne substances called allergens. Despite its name, hay fever is not caused by hay and does not result in a fever. Causes: Hay fever is triggered by inhaling tiny particles of allergens such as: […]
Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis is a condition in which your body absorbs too much iron from the food you eat. Normally, the intestines absorb just enough iron to meet the body’s needs. However, in hemochromatosis, the body absorbs excessive amounts of iron, which then builds up in various organs, including the liver, heart, pancreas, and joints. Over time, […]
Hives (Urticaria)
Hives, also known as urticaria, are a common skin condition characterized by itchy, raised welts or bumps that vary in size and appear anywhere on the body. These welts can be red, pink, or skin-colored and often appear suddenly. Causes: Hives occur when certain cells in the skin release histamine and other chemicals into the […]
Hypercholesterolemia
Hypercholesterolemia refers to abnormally high levels of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in all cells of your body. It’s essential for building healthy cells, but high levels can lead to health problems. Your body produces all the cholesterol it needs, and you also get it from certain foods. […]
Hyperparathyroidism
Hyperparathyroidism is a condition in which the parathyroid glands produce too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). There are four tiny parathyroid glands, usually located behind the thyroid gland in the neck. PTH plays a crucial role in regulating calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels in the blood and bones. When too much PTH is produced, it […]
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces and releases too much thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland, located at the base of your neck, plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism, energy levels, and many other bodily functions. An overactive thyroid can accelerate the body’s metabolism, leading to a wide range of symptoms. […]
Hypothyroidism
Causes: Hypothyroidism can result from various factors, often leading to insufficient thyroid hormone production: Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: This is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. It’s an autoimmune disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks and gradually destroys the thyroid gland. Thyroiditis: Inflammation of the thyroid gland can temporarily cause hypothyroidism. This includes subacute thyroiditis (often […]
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Inflammatory Arthritis
Inflammatory arthritis is a group of autoimmune diseases characterized by inflammation of the joints, often affecting multiple joints throughout the body. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is primarily a “wear-and-tear” condition, inflammatory arthritis results from the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking its own healthy joint tissues, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and potential joint damage over time. […]
Iritis (Anterior Uveitis)
Iritis, also known as anterior uveitis, is an inflammation of the iris (the colored part of the eye) and the surrounding tissue (ciliary body) in the front part of the eye. It is a form of uveitis, which refers to inflammation of the uvea, the middle layer of the eye. Iritis can cause eye pain, […]
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common, chronic disorder that affects the large intestine. It is characterized by a group of symptoms that typically occur together, including abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or both). Unlike inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis, IBS does not cause inflammation or changes […]
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Laryngeal Reflux Disease (LPR)
Laryngeal Reflux Disease (LPR), often called “silent reflux,” is a condition where stomach contents (acid and enzymes like pepsin) flow back up the esophagus and into the throat and voice box (larynx). Unlike gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), LPR often does not cause heartburn, leading to its “silent” nickname. It primarily irritates the sensitive tissues of […]
Lymphoma
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that begins in infection-fighting cells of the immune system, called lymphocytes. These cells are part of the lymphatic system, which includes the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus gland, and bone marrow. Lymphocytes are found throughout the body, so lymphoma can start almost anywhere. When lymphoma develops, lymphocytes grow out of […]
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Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), often simply called major depression or clinical depression, is a serious and common mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how you feel, think, and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. MDD is more than just a […]
Menopausal Genitourinary Syndrome (GSM)
Menopausal Genitourinary Syndrome (GSM) is a chronic, progressive condition that results from declining estrogen levels, primarily after menopause, but also due to other causes of estrogen deficiency. It affects the vulva, vagina, and lower urinary tract, leading to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms. Previously known as vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) or atrophic vaginitis, the term GSM […]
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Neutropenia
Neutropenia is a condition characterized by a lower than normal number of neutrophils in the blood. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that plays a crucial role in the immune system, helping the body fight off infections, especially bacterial and fungal infections. Causes: Neutropenia can be caused by various factors, which can be […]
Nicotine Dependence
Nicotine dependence, also known as nicotine addiction, is a highly addictive chronic brain disease characterized by a compulsive need to use nicotine-containing products (such as cigarettes, e-cigarettes, smokeless tobacco) despite harmful consequences. Nicotine is a chemical found in tobacco that acts as a stimulant and produces pleasurable effects, leading to a strong desire for continued […]
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Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that is the most common type of arthritis. It involves the breakdown of cartilage, the tissue that cushions the ends of bones within a joint. This breakdown leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Causes: OA is primarily caused by wear and tear on the joints […]
Osteopenia
Osteopenia is a condition characterized by lower than average bone density. It is not as severe as osteoporosis, but it can be a precursor to it. People with osteopenia have a greater risk of developing osteoporosis and fractures. Causes: The causes of osteopenia are similar to those of osteoporosis: Age: Bone density naturally decreases with […]
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. As a result, bones become weak and may break from a fall or, in serious cases, from sneezing or minor bumps. Causes: Several factors contribute to the development of osteoporosis: Age: Bone density naturally decreases […]
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Polymyalgia Rheumatica
Polymyalgia Rheumatica (PMR) is an inflammatory disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, primarily in the shoulders, neck, and hips. It is more common in older adults and can significantly impact daily activities. Causes: The exact cause of Polymyalgia Rheumatica is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune condition, meaning the body’s immune […]
Postnasal Drip Syndrome
Postnasal drip syndrome, also widely known as Upper Airway Cough Syndrome (UACS), is a common condition where excess mucus drips down the back of the throat from the nasal passages or sinuses. This sensation can lead to chronic throat irritation, frequent throat clearing, and a persistent cough. Causes: Postnasal drip is often caused by conditions […]
Ptosis (Drooping Eyelid)
Ptosis, commonly known as a drooping eyelid, is a condition where the upper eyelid sags or droops, potentially covering part of the pupil and obstructing vision. It can affect one eye (unilateral ptosis) or both eyes (bilateral ptosis) and can be present at birth (congenital) or develop later in life (acquired). Causes: Ptosis occurs due […]
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Renal Calculi (Kidney Stones)
Renal calculi, commonly known as kidney stones, are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. Your kidneys filter waste products from your blood and produce urine. When there’s too much of certain substances in your urine, such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid, and not enough fluid to dilute them, […]
Rhinitis
Rhinitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane inside the nose, characterized by symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, and itching. It can be caused by allergies (allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever) or by non-allergic factors (non-allergic rhinitis). Causes: Rhinitis can be broadly categorized by its cause: Allergic Rhinitis: This […]
Rosacea
Acne rosacea, often simply referred to as rosacea, is a common chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face. It is characterized by redness, visible blood vessels, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps that resemble acne. Causes: The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but it is thought to be due to a combination […]
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Seasonal Allergies (Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis)
Seasonal allergies, also known as seasonal allergic rhinitis, are allergic reactions that occur during specific times of the year, typically when certain outdoor allergens are prevalent in the air. The most common culprit is pollen released by trees, grasses, and weeds. Causes: Seasonal allergies are triggered by inhaling airborne allergens that are prevalent during particular […]
Secondary Pulmonary Hypertension
Secondary pulmonary hypertension (PH) is high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs that occurs as a result of an underlying medical condition. Unlike primary (or idiopathic) pulmonary hypertension, which has no identifiable cause, secondary PH is a complication of another disease. Causes: Secondary PH develops due to various underlying conditions that affect the […]
Sinusitis
Sinusitis, also known as a sinus infection, is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. Sinuses are hollow spaces behind your cheekbones, forehead, and between your eyes that produce mucus to keep the inside of your nose moist and free of dust and germs. When the sinuses become inflamed, they can get […]
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Temporal Arteritis (Giant Cell Arteritis)
Temporal Arteritis, also known as Giant Cell Arteritis (GCA), is a serious inflammatory condition that affects the large and medium-sized arteries, most commonly those in the head, especially the temporal arteries located on the sides of the head. It is considered a medical emergency due to the risk of permanent vision loss. Causes: The exact […]
Temporomandibular Joint Syndrome (TMJ)
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Syndrome, or temporomandibular disorders (TMD), refers to a group of conditions that cause pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint (temporomandibular joint) and the muscles that control jaw movement. These joints, located on each side of your head just in front of your ears, connect your jawbone to your skull and are […]
Tinnitus
Tinnitus is the perception of a sound in the ear or head when no external sound is present. It is often described as ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling, clicking, or roaring. Tinnitus is a symptom, not a disease itself, and can be intermittent or constant, mild or severe, and can occur in one or both ears. […]
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Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers (sores) in the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum. The inflammation usually starts in the rectum and spreads continuously upward through the colon. Causes: The exact cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but it is believed […]
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Venous Ulcer Disease
Venous ulcer disease, also known as venous stasis ulcers or stasis dermatitis ulcers, refers to open sores that occur on the lower legs, typically above the ankle. These ulcers develop when veins in the legs have difficulty pushing blood back up to the heart, leading to blood pooling, increased pressure, and damage to the skin […]
Ventricular Tachycardia (VFib)
Ventricular Tachycardia (VT) is a type of arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm) that originates in the heart’s lower chambers (ventricles). It is characterized by a very rapid heartbeat, typically 100 beats per minute or more, with at least three consecutive abnormal heartbeats. VT can be a life-threatening condition because the rapid, uncoordinated beating of the ventricles […]
Vertigo
Vertigo is a sensation of spinning or whirling, either of oneself or of the surroundings, even when standing still. It is often described as a feeling of dizziness, but it is distinct from lightheadedness or faintness. Vertigo is typically a symptom of an underlying problem with the inner ear, brain, or sensory nerve pathways. Causes: […]
