Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It causes whiteheads, blackheads or pimples. Acne is most common among teenagers, though it affects people of all ages.
Read MoreAlcoholic liver disease is a result of overconsuming alcohol that damages the liver, leading to a buildup of fats, inflammation, and scarring. It can be fatal.
Read MoreA condition in which the immune system reacts abnormally to a foreign substance.
Read MoreSudden hair loss that starts with one or more circular bald patches that may overlap. Alopecia areata occurs when the immune system attacks hair follicles and may be brought on by severe stress. The main symptom is hair loss. Treatment may address any underlying conditions and includes topical scalp medication.
Read MoreA progressive disease that destroys memory and other important mental functions. Brain cell connections and the cells themselves degenerate and die, eventually destroying memory and other important mental functions. Memory loss and confusion are the main symptoms. No cure exists, but medication and management strategies may temporarily improve symptoms.
Read MoreAnkylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disease that, over time, can cause some of the small bones in your spine (vertebrae) to fuse. This fusing makes the spine less flexible and can result in a hunched-forward posture.
Read MoreAmnesia is a general term describing memory loss. Symptoms include memory loss, confusion and the inability to recognise familiar faces or places. Some of the causes of temporary amnesia include concussion, severe illness and high fever, emotional stress, some drugs and electroconvulsive therapy.
Read MoreAnxiety is your body’s natural response to stress. It’s a feeling of fear or apprehension about what’s to come. The first day of school, going to a job interview, or giving a speech may cause most people to feel fearful and nervous.
Read MoreA rare condition in which the body stops producing enough new blood cells. Aplastic anaemia develops as a result of bone marrow damage. The damage may be present at birth or occur after exposure to radiation, chemotherapy, toxic chemicals, some drugs or infection. Symptoms may develop slowly or suddenly. Fatigue, frequent infections, rapid heart rate and bleeding may occur.
Read MoreAscites is a condition in which fluid collects in spaces within your abdomen. If severe, ascites may be painful.
Read MoreArthritis is the swelling and tenderness of one or more of your joints. The main symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsen with age. The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Read MoreAsthma is a condition in which your airways narrow and swell and may produce extra mucus. This can make breathing difficult and trigger coughing, a whistling sound (wheezing) when you breathe out and shortness of breath.
Read MoreChildhood asthma is the same lung disease adults get, but kids often have different symptoms. Doctors also call this pediatric asthma.If your child has asthma, their lungs and airways can easily get inflamed when they have a cold or are around things like pollen. The symptoms may make it hard for your child to do everyday activities or sleep. Sometimes, an asthma attack can result in a trip to the hospital.There’s no cure for asthma in children, but you can work with your child’s doctor to treat it and prevent damage to their growing lungs.
Read MoreAtopic dermatitis (eczema) is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It’s common in children but can occur at any age. Atopic dermatitis is long lasting (chronic) and tends to flare periodically. It may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever. No cure has been found for atopic dermatitis.
Read MoreA chronic condition including attention difficulty, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. ADHD often begins in childhood and can persist into adulthood. It may contribute to low self-esteem, troubled relationships and difficulty at school or work. Symptoms include limited attention and hyperactivity. Treatments include medication and talk therapy.
Read MoreA wide range of conditions that affect mood, thinking and behaviour.
Read MoreBronchitis is an inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes, which carry air to and from your lungs. People who have bronchitis often cough up thickened mucus, which can be discolored. Bronchitis may be either acute or chronic.
Read MoreCellulitis (sel-u-LIE-tis) is a common, potentially serious bacterial skin infection. The affected skin appears swollen and red and is typically painful and warm to the touch. Cellulitis usually affects the skin on the lower legs, but it can occur in the face, arms and other areas.
Read MoreCervical spondylosis is a general term for age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal disks in your neck. As the disks dehydrate and shrink, signs of osteoarthritis develop, including bony projections along the edges of bones (bone spurs). Cervical spondylosis is very common and worsens with age.
Read MoreChronic pancreatitis is an inflammation of your pancreas that doesn’t improve over time. The pancreas is an organ located behind your stomach. It makes enzymes, which are special proteins that help digest your food. It also makes hormones that control the level of sugar in your bloodstream.
Read MoreChronic liver damage from a variety of causes leading to scarring and liver failure. Hepatitis and chronic alcohol abuse are frequent causes. Liver damage caused by cirrhosis can’t be undone, but further damage can be limited. Initially patients may experience fatigue, weakness and weight loss. During later stages, patients may develop jaundice (yellowing of the skin), gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal swelling and confusion.
Read MoreSometimes kidneys are no longer able to filter and clean blood. This can cause unsafe levels of waste products to build up. This is known as kidney (or renal) failure. Unless it is treated, this can cause death.
Read MoreA chronic inflammatory bowel disease that affects the lining of the digestive tract. Crohn’s disease can sometimes cause life-threatening complications. Crohn’s disease can cause abdominal pain, diarrhoea, weight loss, anaemia and fatigue. Some people may be symptom-free most of their lives, while others can have severe chronic symptoms that never go away. Crohn’s disease cannot be cured. Medications such as steroids and immunosuppressants are used to slow the progression of disease. If these aren’t effective, a patient may require surgery. Additionally, patients with Crohn’s disease may need to receive regular screening for colorectal cancer due to increased risk.
Read MoreDepression is classified as a mood disorder. It may be described as feelings of sadness, loss, or anger that interfere with a person’s everyday activities.
Read MoreAn itchy inflammation of the skin. Atopic dermatitis usually develops in early childhood and is more common in people who have a family history of the condition. The main symptom is a rash that typically appears on the arms and behind the knees, but can also appear anywhere. Treatment includes avoiding soap and other irritants. Certain creams or ointments may also provide relief from the itching.
Read MoreAn increased build-up of fat in the liver. Major risk factors include obesity and type 2 diabetes, though it’s also associated with excessive alcohol consumption. It usually causes no symptoms. When symptoms occur, they include fatigue, weight loss and abdominal pain. Treatment involves reducing the risk factors such as obesity through a diet and exercise programme. It is generally a benign condition, but in a minority of patients, it can progress to liver failure (cirrhosis).
Read MoreNon-cancerous growths in the uterus that can develop during a woman’s childbearing years. The cause of fibroids isn’t well understood. Risk factors include a family history of fibroids, obesity or early onset of puberty. Symptoms include heavy menstrual bleeding, prolonged periods and pelvic pain. In some cases, there are no symptoms. Treatments include medication and removal of the fibroid.
Read MoreWidespread muscle pain and tenderness. Fibromyalgia is often accompanied by fatigue and altered sleep, memory and mood. Widespread muscle pain and tenderness are the most common symptoms. Medication, talk therapy and stress reduction may help in controlling the symptoms.
Read MoreA small tear in the lining of the anus. Anal fissure may occur when passing hard or large stools. An anal fissure can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements. This condition usually heals on its own in four to six weeks. Common treatments include dietary fibre and stool softeners, as well as creams to the affected area.
Read MoreA hardened deposit within the fluid in the gallbladder, a small organ under the liver. Gallstones are hardened deposits of digestive fluid. Gallstones can vary in size and number and may or may not cause symptoms. People who experience symptoms usually require gallbladder removal surgery. Gallstones that don’t cause symptoms usually don’t need treatment.
Read MoreA non-cancerous lump, often on the tendons or joints of wrists and hands. The cause of ganglion cysts is unknown. A ganglion cyst is round, small and usually painless. Although rare, it can be painful if it presses a nerve. In a few cases, the cyst can interfere with joint movement. A ganglion cyst often clears on its own. If troublesome, it can be drained or removed.
Read MoreAny of a group of conditions in which the stomach lining is inflamed. Causes include infection, injury, regular use of pain pills called NSAIDs and too much alcohol. Symptoms include upper stomach pain, nausea and vomiting. Sometimes, there are no symptoms. Treatment depends on the cause. Antibiotics and antacids might help.
Read MoreGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the tube connecting your mouth and stomach (esophagus). This backwash (acid reflux) can irritate the lining of your esophagus.Many people experience acid reflux from time to time. GERD is mild acid reflux that occurs at least twice a week, or moderate to severe acid reflux that occurs at least once a week.Most people can manage the discomfort of GERD with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter medications. But some people with GERD may need stronger medications or surgery to ease symptoms.
Read MoreA form of arthritis characterised by severe pain, redness and tenderness in joints. Pain and inflammation occur when too much uric acid crystallises and deposits in the joints. Symptoms of gout include severe pain, redness and swelling in joints, often the big toe. Attacks can come suddenly, often at night. During an acute attack, anti-inflammatory medication (NSAIDs) can help to relieve pain and shorten the duration of the attack. Patients with chronic gout can use behavioural modification such as diet, exercise and decreased intake of alcohol to help minimise the frequency of attacks. Additionally, patients with chronic gout are often put on medication to reduce uric acid levels.
Read MoreA condition in which the immune system attacks the nerves. The condition may be triggered by an acute bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms start as weakness and tingling in the feet and legs that spread to the upper body. Paralysis can occur. Special blood treatments (plasma exchange and immunoglobulin therapy) can relieve symptoms. Physiotherapy is required.
Read MoreAn allergic response causing itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and other similar symptoms. Allergic rhinitis occurs seasonally or year-round. Diagnosis involves history-taking, examination of the nasal passages and sometimes skin testing. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose and red, watery and itchy eyes. Antihistamine medication can reduce symptoms.
Read MoreHepatitis means inflammation of the liver. The liver is a vital organ that processes nutrients, filters the blood, and fights infections. When the liver is inflamed or damaged, its function can be affected. Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and certain medical conditions can cause hepatitis.
Read MoreA serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus that’s easily preventable by a vaccine. This disease is most commonly spread by exposure to infected bodily fluids. Symptoms are variable and include yellowing of the eyes, abdominal pain and dark urine. Some people, particularly children, don’t experience any symptoms. In chronic cases, liver failure, cancer or scarring can occur. The condition often clears up on its own. Chronic cases require medication and possibly a liver transplant.
Read MoreAn infection caused by a virus that attacks the liver and leads to inflammation. The virus is spread by contact with contaminated blood; for example, from sharing needles or from unsterile tattoo equipment. Most people have no symptoms. Those who do develop symptoms may have fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite and yellowing of the eyes and skin. Hepatitis C is treated with antiviral medication. In some people, newer medicines can eradicate the virus.
Read MoreHerpes results from infection with the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It causes sores or blisters to form in or around the mouth or genitals, as well as other symptoms.
Read MoreA condition in which part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm muscle. In hiatus hernia, part of the stomach pushes into the chest cavity. It enters via an opening where the food tube (oesophagus) passes on its way to the stomach. Hiatus hernias can have no symptoms. In some cases, they may be associated with heartburn and abdominal discomfort. Hiatus hernias may not require any treatment. Some are treated with drugs and a few types need surgical repair.
Read MoreThe overproduction of a hormone by the butterfly-shaped gland in the neck (thyroid). Hyperthyroidism is the production of too much thyroxine hormone. It can increase metabolism. Symptoms include unexpected weight loss, rapid or irregular heartbeat, sweating and irritability, although the elderly often experience no symptoms. Treatments include radioactive iodine, medication and sometimes surgery.
Read MoreA condition in which the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism’s deficiency of thyroid hormones can disrupt such things as heart rate, body temperature and all aspects of metabolism. Hypothyroidism is most prevalent in older women. Major symptoms include fatigue, cold sensitivity, constipation, dry skin and unexplained weight gain. Treatment consists of thyroid hormone replacement.
Read MoreAn intestinal disorder causing pain in the stomach, wind, diarrhoea and constipation. The cause of irritable bowel syndrome isn’t well understood. A diagnosis is often made based on symptoms. Symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. Some people can control their symptoms by managing diet, lifestyle and stress. Others will need medication and counselling.
Read MoreYellow skin caused by the build-up of bilirubin in the blood. Jaundice may occur if the liver can’t efficiently process red blood cells as they break down. It’s normal in healthy newborns and usually clears on its own. At other ages, it may signal infection or liver disease. Symptoms include yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes. Some newborns may require light therapy for a day or so. In other cases, treatment involves addressing the underlying cause.
Read MoreA small, hard deposit that forms in the kidneys and is often painful when passed. Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and acid salts that stick together in concentrated urine. They can be painful when passing through the urinary tract, but usually don’t cause permanent damage. The most common symptom is severe pain, usually in the side of the abdomen, that’s often associated with nausea. Treatment includes pain relievers and drinking lots of water to help pass the stone. Medical procedures may be required to remove or break up larger stones.
Read MoreAn inflammatory condition of the skin and mucous membranes. Lichen planus occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks cells of the skin or mucous membranes. On skin, lichen planus appears as purplish, itchy, flat-topped bumps. On mucous membranes, such as in the mouth, it forms lacy, white patches, sometimes with painful sores. Lichen planus usually goes away on its own. If symptoms are bothersome, topical creams and oral antihistamines may help.
Read MoreA fatty lump most often situated between the skin and underlying muscle layer. Lipomas are slow growing and usually harmless. Rarely, they can be cancerous. Some people have more than one. Lipomas are just under the skin and move easily when pressure is applied. They commonly occur in the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms and thighs. Treatment generally isn’t necessary, but if the lipoma is bothersome, painful or growing, surgical removal may be required.
Read MoreA general term for age-related wear and tear of the spinal discs. Spondylosis is common and worsens with age. This condition is often used to describe degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) of the spine. Most people don’t have symptoms, but some may experience pain or muscle spasms. In many cases, no specific treatment is required. If symptoms occur, treatments include medication, corticosteroid injections, physiotherapy and sometimes surgery.
Read MoreA headache of varying intensity, often accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine headaches are sometimes preceded by warning symptoms. Triggers include hormonal changes, certain food and drink, stress and exercise. Migraine headaches can cause throbbing in one particular area that can vary in intensity. Nausea and sensitivity to light and sound are also common symptoms. Preventive and pain-relieving medication can help manage migraine headaches.
Read MoreMultiple myeloma is a cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Healthy plasma cells help you fight infections by making antibodies that recognize and attack germs. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and crowd out healthy blood cells.
Read MoreA disease in which the immune system eats away at the protective covering of nerves. In MS, resulting nerve damage disrupts communication between the brain and the body. Multiple sclerosis causes many different symptoms, including vision loss, pain, fatigue and impaired coordination. The symptoms, severity and duration can vary from person to person. Some people may be symptom free for most of their lives, while others can have severe, chronic symptoms that never go away. Physiotherapy and medication that suppress the immune system can help with symptoms, and slow disease progression.
Read MoreA weakness and rapid fatigue of muscles under voluntary control. The condition is caused by a breakdown in communication between nerves and muscles. Symptoms include weakness in the arm and leg muscles, double vision and difficulties with speech and chewing. Medication, therapy and surgery can help.
Read MoreA painless benign growth on the lining of the nose or sinuses. Causes are chronic inflammation due to infection, allergies, drug sensitivity or immune disorders. Symptoms may include a runny nose, stuffiness or post-nasal drip. In some cases, there may be no symptoms. The condition can be treated with corticosteroids, other medication or surgery.
Read MoreA kidney disorder that causes the body to excrete too much protein in the urine. Nephrotic syndrome is often caused by damage to small blood vessels in the kidneys that filter waste and excess water from the blood. An underlying health condition usually plays a role. Symptoms include swelling around the eyes and in the feet and ankles, foamy urine and weight gain due to excess fluid retention. Treatment addresses underlying conditions and might include blood pressure medication and water pills.
Read MoreCancer of the tube that runs from the throat to the stomach (oesophagus). Smoking and poorly controlled acid reflux are significant risk factors for oesophageal cancer. Symptoms include trouble swallowing, unintentional weight loss, chest pain, worsening indigestion or heartburn and coughing or hoarseness. Treatment focuses on removing the cancer through surgery. Chemotherapy and radiation may also be used.
Read MoreA type of arthritis that occurs when flexible tissue at the ends of bones wears down. The wearing down of the protective tissue at the ends of bones (cartilage) occurs gradually and worsens over time. Joint pain in the hands, neck, lower back, knees or hips is the most common symptom. Medication, physiotherapy and sometimes surgery can help reduce pain and maintain joint movement.
Read MoreOsteoporosis causes bones to become weak and brittle — so brittle that a fall or even mild stresses such as bending over or coughing can cause a fracture. Osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly occur in the hip, wrist or spine. Bone is living tissue that is constantly being broken down and replaced.
Read MoreA disorder of the central nervous system that affects movement, often including tremors. Nerve cell damage in the brain causes dopamine levels to drop, leading to the symptoms of Parkinson’s. Parkinson’s often starts with a tremor in one hand. Other symptoms are slow movement, stiffness and loss of balance. Medication can help control the symptoms of Parkinson’s.
Read MoreA hormonal disorder causing enlarged ovaries with small cysts on the outer edges. The cause of polycystic ovary syndrome isn’t well understood, but may involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Symptoms include menstrual irregularity, excess hair growth, acne and obesity. Treatments include birth control pills to regularise periods, medication called metformin to prevent diabetes, statins to control high cholesterol, hormones to increase fertility and procedures to remove excess hair.
Read MorePeptic ulcers are open sores that develop on the inside lining of your stomach and the upper portion of your small intestine. The most common symptom of a peptic ulcer is stomach pain. Peptic ulcers include: Gastric ulcers that occur on the inside of the stomach.
Read MorePiles are collections of tissue and vein that become inflamed and swollen. The size of piles can vary, and they are found inside or outside the anus. Piles occur due to chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, lifting heavy weights, pregnancy, or straining when passing a stool.
Read MoreA cancer in a man’s prostate, a small walnut-sized gland that produces seminal fluid. A man’s prostate produces the seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Symptoms include difficulty with urination, but sometimes there are no symptoms at all. Some types of prostate cancer grow slowly. In some of these cases, monitoring is recommended. Other types are aggressive and require radiation, surgery, hormone therapy, chemotherapy or other treatments.
Read MoreAge-associated prostate gland enlargement that can cause urination difficulty. This type of prostate enlargement isn’t thought to be a precursor to prostate cancer. With this condition, the urinary stream may be weak or stop and start. In some cases, it can lead to infection, bladder stones and reduced kidney function. Treatments include medication that relaxes or shrinks the prostate, surgery and minimally invasive surgery.
Read MorePsoriasis is a skin disease that causes red, itchy scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk and scalp. Psoriasis is a common, long-term (chronic) disease with no cure. It tends to go through cycles, flaring for a few weeks or months, then subsiding for a while or going into remission.
Read MoreA chronic inflammatory disorder affecting many joints, including those in the hands and feet. In rheumatoid arthritis, the body’s immune system attacks its own tissue, including joints. In severe cases, it attacks internal organs. Rheumatoid arthritis affects joint linings, causing painful swelling. Over long periods of time, the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis can cause bone erosion and joint deformity. While there’s no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, physiotherapy and medication can help slow the disease’s progression. Most cases can be managed with a class of medications called anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS)
Read MoreSinusitis is an inflammation or swelling of the tissue lining the sinuses. Sinuses are hollow spaces within the bones between your eyes, behind your cheekbones, and in your forehead. They make mucus, which keeps the inside of your nose moist. That, in turn, helps protect against dust, allergens, and pollutants.
Read MoreTonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, two oval-shaped pads of tissue at the back of the throat — one tonsil on each side. Signs and symptoms of tonsillitis include swollen tonsils, sore throat, difficulty swallowing and tender lymph nodes on the sides of the neck.
Read MoreTrigeminal neuralgia (TN), also called tic douloureux, is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal or 5th cranial nerve, one of the most widely distributed nerves in the head. TN is a form of neuropathic pain (pain associated with nerve injury or nerve lesion.)
Read MoreUlcerative colitis (UL-sur-uh-tiv koe-LIE-tis) is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation and ulcers (sores) in your digestive tract. Ulcerative colitis affects the innermost lining of your large intestine (colon) and rectum. Symptoms usually develop over time, rather than suddenly.
Read MoreHives (urticaria) are red, itchy welts that result from a skin reaction. The welts vary in size and appear and fade repeatedly as the reaction runs its course. The condition is considered chronic hives if the welts appear for more than six weeks and recur frequently over months or years.
Read MoreVertigo is a symptom, rather than a condition itself. It’s the sensation that you, or the environment around you, is moving or spinning. This feeling may be barely noticeable, or it may be so severe that you find it difficult to keep your balance and do everyday tasks.
Read MoreA disease that causes the loss of skin colour in blotches. Vitiligo occurs when pigment-producing cells die or stop functioning. Loss of skin colour can affect any part of the body, including the mouth, hair and eyes. It may be more noticeable in people with darker skin. Treatment may improve the appearance of the skin but doesn’t cure the disease.
Read MoreVocal nodules are hard, rough, noncancerous growths on your vocal cords. They can be as small as a pinhead or as large as a pea. You get nodules from straining or overusing your voice, especially from singing, yelling, or talking loudly or for a long period of time. Vocal nodules go by other names based on their cause.
Read MoreA wart is a small growth with a rough texture that can appear anywhere on the body. It can look like a solid blister or a small cauliflower. Warts are caused by viruses in the human papillomavirus (HPV) family. The appearance of a wart depends on its location on the body and the thickness of the skin.
Read MoreCeliac disease (also called celiac sprue) is caused by an abnormal immune reaction to gluten in the small intestine. Gluten is a protein found in various grains. When individuals with celiac disease eat gluten-containing products such as barley, rye, and wheat, damage occurs in the lining of the small intestine.
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