Abrasions, often referred to as a burn, skin, or scrape, occur when the skin is rubbed away; commonly abrasions occur when one falls on a hard or rough surface. Children are extremely prone to abrasions, commonly suffering from a skinned knee as a result of playing and falling. Abrasions remove layers of skin from the [...]
Nasal congestion, commonly known as a stuffy nose, congested nose, or stopped-up nose, is a common health problem that affects millions of people. It occurs when there is a blockage of the nasal passage, usually when the membrane lining inside of the nose becomes swollen from inflamed blood vessels. While nasal congestion may just be [...]
An eye infection is a general term applied to many different conditions. Eye infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, allergies, or other microbiological means. Some common types of eye infections are pink eye, or conjunctivitis, blepharitis, and trachoma. These varieties of infections can spread easily and lead to larger problems including blurred vision, damage [...]
Nasal congestion, also known as stuffy nose or stuffed up nose, nasal blockage, blocked nose, or nasal obstruction is a condition that exists when the nasal passages’ membranes, ranging from the exterior nares or nostrils to the interior nares also called choana, become swollen and irritated from inflamed blood vessels in mucosal membranes. Although they [...]
What is Anemia? People who suffer from anemia do not have enough red blood cells for the body to function properly. Red blood cells are responsible for transporting oxygen from the lungs to other parts of the body. When there is iron deficiency, the body does not produce enough red blood cells for this vital [...]
Scabies is a type of skin infection caused by the sarcoptes scabiei mite, characterized by skin itching. Also termed “sarcoptic mange”, the term scabies is actually derived from the Latin word for “scratch”, scabere. The tiny mites burrow within the skin, causing an allergic reaction which in turn leads to a rash and acute itching. [...]
The plantar fascia is a sheet of very tough material running the length of the bottom of your foot. Basically a long and flat but thick sheet of connective tissue, it attaches your heel to each of your toes. Tissues that connect bones to other bones are called ligaments, so this may also be referred [...]
Menstrual cramps experienced by a woman during her monthly menstrual period are pains that occur in the abdomen and pelvic area. To some extent, 50 percent of all women are affected by menstrual cramps and approximately 15 percent of these women have severe cramps. Ninety percent of girls still in their adolescence have cramps. Menstrual [...]
Edema is the accumulation of abnormal levels of fluid in the circulatory system and the tissues between the body’s cells (interstitial tissue). This condition often causes tissue underneath the skin to swell, and is common when lymphatic blockage occurs. Swelling occurs in the blood vessels when an excessive increase in the volume of plasma fluid [...]
Stretch marks are visible blemishes that can develop anywhere on a person’s skin. They usually occur when the skin has been stretched because of pregnancy, weight gain or any other reason. Stretch marks affect people of all ages and genders; however, they most particularly affect pregnant mothers. Alternative Names The blemishes are most commonly referred [...]
Many new mothers agree that breastfeeding is one of the great pleasures of having a newborn. It can be a healthy, bonding experience, both physically and emotionally, for both mother and baby. Unfortunately, sometimes infections can occur that make breastfeeding very painful. Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast caused by bacteria. Unlike engorgement or [...]
What Is Scurvy? Dating back to ancient Egypt, scurvy represents an abnormal condition of ascorbic acid or Vitamin C deficiency in the diet. The earliest records of the symptoms associated with scurvy are the contribution of Egyptian scribes, dating back to 1550 BC. Scurvy ravaged its victims of ocean exploration during the Renaissance Era of [...]
Symptoms Peptic Ulcer Disease Peptic ulcers are essentially sores that have developed within the esophagus, stomach, or even the upper section of the small intestine. These areas are very acidic due to the part they play in the digestive system, which frequently causes the ulcers to be very painful to the sufferer. Symptoms of mild [...]
What is Alzheimer’s? Alzheimer’s Disease is a slowly progressing and irreversible brain disorder named for German physician, Alois Alzheimer, who described the disease in 1906. While working in a city mental hospital in Frankfurt, Germany, the doctor had a 51 year old female patient whose symptoms did not fit into any previously recognized category. She [...]
Diabetes Mellitus: Management and Remedies Diabetes mellitus is the inability or compromised ability for the body to produce or assimilate insulin. Insulin is a hormone produced by beta cells in the pancreas and released into the bloodstream to help regulate serum glucose (blood sugar) levels. Insulin helps to transport glucose to cells, where it is [...]
Overview of Oral Candidiasis Oral candidiasis is a fungus that causes infection of the oral cavity in humans. It is a type of yeast that lives almost everywhere, including in the human body. The immune system usually keeps it under control but under certain circumstances, the fungus can grow quickly and become a health threat. [...]
Tinea versicolor, known as Dermatomycosis furfuracea, Pityriasis versicolor, and Tinea flava, is a benign fungal infection that is characterized by a rash and abnormal patches of pigmentation on the on the chest, arms, legs, and back. This fungus, called malessizia furfur, is a type of yeast that naturally is found on the body. At times, [...]
What is Tinnitus? Tinnitus is any kind of persistent noise that doesn’t have any external source, and seems to originate in the ear or head. Many patients perceive it as an unpleasant high pitched ringing, shrieking or whistling noise, a sound like crickets, buzzing, wooshing – like the sound of loud wind – or as [...]
Dry or chapped lips are often the most prevalent during the cold winter months when the humidity levels drop and our homes become dry from the use of heat. This condition can start out as a mild annoyance and quickly become a painful situation with a risk of infection. Children and the elderly are often [...]
Low immunity is when the body’s defensive system is in low working order. Called the immune system, it is made up of lymphocytes and antibodies, and works together with other parts of the body such as the spleen, thymus glands, bone marrow, and much more. It is by far the most complex and involved function [...]
What is Psoriasis? Psoriasis, also called plaque psoriasis, is an unpleasant dermatological condition that affects about 2% of the population, roughly six million people. It is characterized by red, scaly and itchy skin. Depending on the severity and stage of the rash, it can also appear silvery, shiny and flaky. Psoriasis is not a medical [...]
Arthritis is a painful joint disorder caused by inflammation. The actual word arthritis is derived from the Greek meaning “inflamed joint.” When one or more joints become inflamed, arthritis is present. It is important to understand that arthritis is not a single disease; there are over 100 variations of arthritis that range in severity and [...]
Dark circles are obvious blemishes that appear above and, particularly, beneath a person’s eyes. Dark circles do not cause any pain and are rarely a sign of a serious medical problem. However, they can be a source of major annoyance and can hurt a person’s self confidence. Many people with the condition complain that the [...]
Do you get chafed, red skin after shaving? Razor burn is a common effect of shaving, causing uncomfortable stinging, itching, burning and raised red bumps. Almost everyone who shaves with a razor may experience razor burn occasionally, and possibly nicks and cuts too. Razor burn can occur in men or women anywhere the skin is [...]
Leg cramps, also known as a charley horse, are characterized by sudden pain or tightness in the voluntary muscles of the leg. These muscles are mainly the muscles in the area of the calf, hamstring, or quadriceps, and though the cramp usually only lasts a couple of seconds, it can take several minutes for the [...]
Common Skin Diseases, Symptoms & Treatments Your skin is an essential part of your body. It performs a high number of functions and these are vital to overall health. Among the important jobs your skin does are: protection from pathogens and elements; provision of important sensory information pertaining to touch, heat, cold, etc.; prevention of [...]
Overview of Intestinal Worms Millions of people worldwide are affected by intestinal worms. Intestinal worms are parasites that use humans and other animals as their hosts. They enter the body when a person eats undercooked meat, drinks contaminated water, or comes into contact with soil that contains worm eggs. Once inside the body, the eggs [...]
Goitre (more commonly refered to as “a goiter” and sometimes called “bronchocele”) is a thyroid condition most commonly resulting from a lack of iodine. This condition is often manifested as a large swollen area on the neck, which is referred to as “a goiter”. Swelling of the thyroid often will trigger swelling of the voice [...]
Dark Skin Discoloration There are dark skin discoloration disorders that we can effectively treat with homeopathy, traditional pharmaceuticals, surgery, and other non-traditional techniques and many conditions whose symptoms also include dark skin discoloration that are the result of significant advanced disease processes. This article focuses on those conditions whose treatments have known efficacy. To begin, [...]
Halitosis, or bad breath, is a combination of the Latin word halitus meaning “breath” and the Greek suffix “osis” which means “afflicted with” or “condition.” The word itself was actually coined by Listerine in 1921 as part of an advertising campaign. It is not a modern affliction but one that can actually be traced back [...]
Earache is a common medical condition that causes the swelling and inflammation of the structures that makeup the ear. These structures include the tympanic membrane, external auditory canal and the middle ear. Although very common in children, earaches can occur in adults resulting in pain, fever and irritability. An earache can also be a symptom [...]
One of the most terrifying injuries that can happen to a person involves suffering from amnesia. Imagine losing your entire memory, all of your life’s happiness and all of the pain; or imagine not knowing who your family is, or even who you are. Amnesia can affect anyone, at any age and at any point [...]
Allergies, estimated to afflict one out of every five Americans, are abnormal reactions to normally harmless substances in the environment called allergens. Upon exposure to an allergen, the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies it as a threat and takes defensive action against the presumed invader. The immune system’s inappropriate attempt to protect the body gives [...]
Thinning Hair and Hair Loss Hair loss in any form is a cause of distress for most people. Many assume that thinning hair, or loss of hair is simply an unavoidable aspect of aging. Others assume it is determined by heredity and therefore, cannot be avoided. It is important to note that there are numerous [...]
Leucorrhoea, or, as it is also known as, leukorrhea or leucorrhea, is a normal and common condition in which discharge from the vagina becomes changes in color or consistency. This discharge is often caused by inflammation or infection within the vagina or cervix. Irritation of the membrane lining can also cause leucorrhoea to occur. This [...]
Bone spurs are ossified or calcified growths that develop over normal bone. Despite their name, they are not jagged or sharp; they mostly resemble tiny bits of gravel attached to the bone most often at the site of an articulating joint. Often they are asymptomatic and go undetected for years, only turning up as an [...]
How often do people complain about pain or bloating in their stomach after eating? Unfortunately, this is an all too common occurrence, and not just for Americans, but people the world over. Indigestion, officially known as Dyspepsia, and more commonly called an upset stomach, is a condition that affects literally millions of Americans every year. [...]
Overview of Cholera Cholera is a bacterial infection of the small intestines. It causes violent diarrhea and severe dehydration. If untreated cholera is fatal in 30%-50% of cases. Death can occur in as little as four hours or take as long as several days depending upon the initial health of the victim. In the USA, [...]
All people are born with a genetic determination for the color of their hair. While this color may not be readily apparent at birth, by one to two years of age, hair color is set. For many people, this color lasts for about 40 years. As people age, they can lose the pigmentation in their [...]
There are two types of herpes diseases and both are caused by the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) or the herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). The first type of herpes is oral. The second is genital and is an STD (sexually transmitted disease). Although HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, HSV-1 is associated mainly with oral [...]
Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound produced when one breathes through narrowed or obstructed respiratory airways. Breathing seems difficult, and sometimes there is a feeling of tightness in the chest. Wheezing can occur with any of the following health conditions: Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction that shuts off airways) Asthma Acute Bronchitis Aspiration (the presence [...]
Overview of Disorders, Symptoms, and Causes Sexual dysfunction is an umbrella name for a variety of problems that people may experience during any stage of sexual activity. Sexual dysfunctions may affect sexual desire, sexual arousal, and/or the ability to achieve climax (orgasm). Clinically speaking, there are four primary categories of sexual dysfunction, as they are [...]
Having dark underarms is a pretty common problem, contrary to what you are probably thinking. It’s not only you that has this type of problem. Most of us like to wear clothes that are sleeveless, but when you have dark underarms it can be an embarrassing situations. There are many things that can cause dark [...]
The gallbladder is tucked up underneath the liver on the right side of the body. Its main function is to store bile – historically called “gall” – which is produced by the liver and carried to the common hepatic duct and the gallbladder through a series of tubules or ducts (bile ducts) embedded in the [...]
Belching Or Eructation Belching is a perfectly normal human experience and it is common for people to belch about a dozen times in a single day. It is also known as eructation, burping and ructus. Belching releases gas from the digestive system. This gas builds up in the stomach and esophagus, and is then released [...]
Overview and Alternative Names Mononucleosis has several names such as mono, kissing disease, Pfeiffer’s disease, Filatov’s disease, and glandular fever. Regardless of the name, infectious mononucleosis is an infection caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, which produces flu-like symptoms and extreme fatigue. Causes Infection mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. Viruses are microscopic pathogens made [...]
The immune system’s primary function is to fight off bacteria, viruses, cancer cells, toxins, and blood or tissue belonging to other humans or species. These intruders are called antigens and white blood cells go into attack mode to protect the body from anything they consider to be intruders by producing antibodies. However, sometimes white blood [...]
What is Leucoderma? Leucoderma is a cutaneous disorder in which the skin loses part or all of its pigment in spots, causing white blotches, or lesions. It is also known as Vitiligo, however, Vitiligo is a type of Leucoderma, therefore the terms are not completely interchangeable. Leucoderma is non-contagious. The areas that lose pigment are [...]
Yeast infections, also known as candidosis, moniliasis, idiomycosis or vaginitis, are caused by too many yeast cells growing in the vagina. Yeast is naturally present on the skin and in moist areas of the body, such as the mouth and vagina. A healthy vagina has bacteria that help to keep the amount of yeast in [...]
Hay fever is a common condition. So common in fact that it is thought to affect one in five people. As with many common ailments, hay fever has many aliases. Other names for hay fever include seasonal allergic rhinitis, nasal allergies, pollinosis, or simply allergies. No matter which name it is called by, hay fever [...]
What Are Varicose Veins Varicose veins, also known as varicosity and varicosis, are veins that have become twisted and engorged due to the collection of an abnormal amount of blood. Varicose veins are sometimes painful and can happen to any veins but most often affect the veins of the legs and feet, which is the [...]
Breast cancer is a disease that can strike fear in the heart of any woman, and with good reason. It is the second most prevalent kind of cancer, after lung cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, there were about 194,280 new cases of breast cancer in the U.S. last year. This is including 1,910 [...]
Most of us feel extremely lucky if our family members make it through the winter without succumbing to any ailments. That’s because along with the first frosty days, winter often brings the flu, colds, coughs and sore throats. It’s no coincidence that increased sickness comes with decreasing temperatures. When temperatures begin to fall, the body [...]
Measles is a very serious respiratory virus that is considered one of the “standard childhood diseases”. Measles is highly contagious; in fact, in the pre-20th century world, measles outbreaks often grew into epidemics. However, thanks to modern medicine, measles is no longer a serious threat. There is practically no possibility of measles causing an epidemic; [...]
An eating disorder is a condition that affects one’s eating habits. These disorders can lead one to eat too much or too little. Though eating disorders usually occur in children and young adults, they have also been seen to affect adults later in life, with females being more affected than males. While an eating disorder [...]
This article will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatments for arteriosclerosis. Arteriosclerosis is the hardening and loss of elasticity of medium or large arteries. This article will also present a discussion of atherosclerosis, the most common form of arteriosclerosis, as well as a related disease, arteriolosclerosis, the hardening and loss of elasticity of small arteries [...]
Every year millions of people see their doctors for symptoms such as constipation, abdominal pain, diarrhea, or excessive gas. These are the most common indicators of gastrointestinal disorders. The diagnoses for digestive disorder range from an upset stomach to the potentially serious and life-threatening colon cancer, or colorectal cancer. The most common diagnoses are Irritable [...]
Acne scarring, as with any other scarring, is the result of a wound in our skin. The problem of acne scarring begins first with having acne. Acne begins with our skin producing natural oil in the subaceous gland. Bacteria causing acne metabolizes this oil, which then irritates the skin. When the skin is irritated by [...]
In our culture, menopause can best be defined as the cessation of menstrual periods and fertility in an adult female. Often called the change of life, the word, menopause, actually means just that—the end of monthly cycles. However, this very simple definition of a natural body process requires a good deal more explanation to thoroughly [...]
Fungal infections, which are also known as mycoses, occur when a fungal agent manages to pass through the barriers that are set up to protect the body and establishes an infection. Fungal infections can be classified according to the part of the body that is infected. A superficial mycosis is an infection that affects the [...]
Overview of Morning Sickness Morning sickness is a condition which occurs during pregnancy that affects approximately more than half of all pregnant women, but it may also be experienced by women using hormonal contraception or hormone replacement therapy. Usually prominent during the early hours of the morning, morning sickness can occur during any part of [...]
What Is Pneumonia? Pneumonia, rather than being a specific disease, is something of a catch-all term to describe respiratory distress brought on by a number of different causes, all of which have the same end result. The lungs experience potentially hazardous levels of inflammation, usually brought on by bacterial, viral or fungal infection. In some [...]
Poison ivy is notorious for causing skin irritation and rashes. When this happens, it is called allergic contact dermatitis. A person will generally experience this because poison ivy has an irritant in it that humans are sensitive to, and it is also found in other kinds of toxic plants, such as poison sumac or poison [...]
Warts are caused by the human papillomavirus, known as HPV, which is a double-stranded DNA virus. HPV causes benign tumors of the epidermis, commonly referred to as warts. There are a large variety of warts that are caused by different sub-types of HPV. Cervical cancer and other wart-related cancers are also caused by HPV. The [...]
Cures And Remedies For Knee Pain Every year, millions visit a doctor complaining of pain in the knee. In fact, knee pain is the most common reason to go see a bone and joint surgeon. Specifically, the knee is where the thigh bone comes together with the tibia. The tibia bone is the largest bone [...]
The common cold, also known as upper respiratory tract infection, acute viral rhinopharyngitis, acute coryza, or simply cold, is the one of the most prevalent illnesses in America. It is also the number one reason that people visit their doctors. Depending on the type of virus, symptoms and duration of cold will vary. Some people [...]
Celiac disease a little understood autoimmune syndrome that affects roughly 0.5% of the world’s population. Basically, it is an intolerance to the gluten found in grains such as wheat, rye, spelt, oats, barley, and its derivatives. Gluten is what gives dough its elastic texture. It is not a vital protein for the body. For individuals [...]
Colitis refers to several different maladies that adversely affect the colon and an individuals ability to absorb adequate nutrition and effectively eliminate waste. Colitis may refer to one, or more, irritable bowel diseases. In some cases, a diagnosis refers to a temporary infliction, while others are only the beginning of a lifelong struggle to stay [...]
GERD: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is also known as gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD), gastric reflux disease, or simply acid reflux disease. It is caused by the chronic backwash or reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. Most people experience acid reflux occasionally, but if reflux happens more than twice weekly or [...]
The thyroid gland, located at the back of the neck below the Adam’s apple, is a gland that produces thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones regulate our body’s metabolism, as well as helping to regulate energy usage, the use of hormones and vitamins, and the growth and maturation of body tissues. Thyroid disease either creates an overabundance [...]
When the sebaceous glands produce too much oil, it can get trapped under the skin, combine with dead skin cells, and clog the pores. When this happens, bacteria can build, and cause inflamed, puss-filled bumps known as pimples, zits, or acne. Teenagers are prone to pimples because of their overactive hormones during puberty. And women [...]
Overview Tuberculosis (TB) is a deadly, highly contagious disease cause by the gram positive bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The history of tuberculosis and humans has been intertwined since ancient times. There is evidence than Neolithic aged, prehistoric humans had contracted TB as early as 7000 years ago. TB can also infect animals. Evidence of TB has [...]
Definition of Dry Skin The skin is the essential covering for the body, offering physical, thermal and moisture protection against the environment. The skin weighs more than twice the weight of the brain; and during a normal year sheds 1.5 pounds (0.68 kilograms) of dead cells. Alternative names, for the skin, are “dermis” or “dermal.” [...]
When fungi infect a nail, the result can be an infection of nail fungus called onychomycosis. A white or yellow spot appearing under the tip of the nail may be the first sign of a nail fungal infection. The nail may become discolored, thickened and develop brittle crumbling edges as the fungus goes deeper into [...]
What is a Hangover? A hangover can be best described as the effect of too much alcohol or drug consumption. Many people can associate with a hangover mainly because it is normally experienced the morning after a long and pleasurable night of drinking. There are two types of hangovers. The first type, which is the [...]
Head Congestion There are four pairs of paranasal sinuses. Frontal sinuses are located above the eyes in the forehead bones. Your maxillary sinuses are the largest. They are found in the cheekbones and under your eyes. Ethmoid sinuses are between the eyes and the nose. The sphenoid sinuses are in the center of the head, [...]
Anorexia Nervosa Symptoms Psychological Symptoms Restricting or ceasing food consumption An intense fear of weight gain Weighing under 85% of normal body weight Excessive exercising Viewing your body as overweight, even when it is thin Secretive about eating or only eating when alone Abnormal eating habits or rituals Physical Symptoms Constipation Low body weight or [...]
Dizziness Overview Dizziness, often referred to as vertigo or feeling light-headed, is associated with a multitude of conditions. It can be a side effect of a common ailment, or it may indicate the presence of a more serious and even life threatening illness. Vertigo, while often associated with dizziness, is a little bit different and [...]
Vitiligo is a condition that occurs when white patches start to appear on the skin. These white patches can vary in their size and location of where they can be found. Melanocytes are pigment cells which produce the pigment melanin. Melanin is responsible for determining the color of one’s skin, hair, and eyes. The white [...]
What is Diarrhea Diarrhoea, also spelled diarrhea, is not a sickness in and of itself, rather it is a symptom of underlying conditions. Diarrhea is described as having stool that is not formed and is watery. This digestive problem may or may not be accompanied by cramping in the abdominal region or a sense of [...]
Alternative Names Genital Warts is the common name given to the flat, raised or cauliflower shaped growths found in genital areas on a body and transmitted through skin-to-skin or sexual contact. They can be flesh colored, white or gray and can be raised or flat. Genital Warts arises from a sexually transmitted virus known as [...]
Carpel Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is an illness that first manifests its symptoms as a minor pain in the wrist and eventually works its way up to the hands. With the use of computers and typing skills becoming more routine in everyday events, the risk for CTS is much higher than it was ten years ago. [...]
Freckles are flat, circular tan spots of concentrated melanin often visible on individuals with fair skin. Also known as ephelides, the word freckle comes from the Middle English term freken which descends from the Old Norse term freknur meaning freckled.Those with freckles may have numerous spots on areas such as the cheeks, nose, forehead, chest, [...]
Alternative names Hyperuricemia Asymptomatic Gout Acute Gout or Gouty Arthritis Interval and Intercritical Gout Chronic Tophaccous Gout Symptoms There are two different types of gout, primary gout and secondary gout. Primary gout is inherited, which consists of the over production of the uric acid in the blood, a decrease of uric acid in the urine, [...]
Chicken pox, also referred to as Varicell disease, is classified as an infectious disease that particularly strikes children. However, chicken pox can affect persons of various ages and often does. Statistics indicate that over four million individuals in the United States alone are diagnosed with chicken pox annually and the incidence for chicken pox in [...]
Hyperacidity occurs when the stomach releases a higher than normal amount of hydrochloric acid during the process of digestion. Hyperacidity also refers to the stomach simply containing an excess of acid. The term heartburn refers to a sensation that can be described as feeling like burning and is felt in the chest area behind the [...]
ENT Disorders Common problems of the ears, nose, and throat ENT disorder, or ENT syndrome, is a very broad description of a number of different ailments. It refers to any problems or disorders with a person’s ears, nose, or throat. Chances are, if someone has chronic problems in this area, they have been or will [...]
One of the main reasons for deaths worldwide and the single leading cause of death (1 in 5) and illness in the US is coronary heart disease (CHD). Also referred to as coronary artery disease (CAD) and ischemic heart disease (IHD), approximately 14 million women and men are impacted by coronary heart disease in America. [...]
Frequent Urination Condition Frequent urination simply means urinating more often than usual. Its a symptom rather than a condition. Most people empty their bladders between four and eight times a day; frequent urination is therefore defined as voiding urine more often than eight times a day with the implication that this increased rate is not [...]
Insomnia, often referred to as a sleeping difficulty, restlessness or sleeplessness, is a sleep disorder. Insomnia happens when a person has one or more of the following symptoms: Trouble falling asleep, no matter how tired a person is Falls asleep but wakes up often Feels like he or she has not slept during the night [...]
Angina, also known as Angina Pectoris which means squeezing of the chest in Latin, is a symptom of ischemic heart disease. The chest discomfort, pressure and pain are caused by the coronary arteries delivering an inadequate amount of oxygen-rich blood to the heart. The two main causes of angina are artherosclerotic plaque buildup and coronary [...]
Canker sores are also known as aphthous ulcers or aphthous stomatitis. They are characterized by small, shallow lesions found on the inside of the mouth. Eating or drinking can be difficult and very painful with canker sores, depending upon the size and location of the lesions. Contrary to the beliefs of many people, canker sores [...]
Underweight individuals are often ridiculed for their appearance and are regularly accused of being underweight as a result of something they have done wrong or because they are suffering from an eating disorder. While this is the case for certain people, it is an unfair and unwarranted stereotype that can be psychologically damaging and hurtful [...]
What is a Throat Obstruction? There are many medical conditions or traumas which may cause throat obstruction. The results of having a throat obstruction can range from mild irritation to life threatening medical events. Internal throat obstructions are quite different from throat obstructions caused by a foreign, or swallowed, object. Each type of throat obstruction [...]
Body odor Definition Body odor is a very common problem that everybody has heard of or at least had the chance to smell! Most people understand that body odor and sweat are linked together but they do not know exactly how. According to dictionary.com, body odor is defined as an unpleasant odor from a perspiring [...]
Ear infections are very painful and are one of the most common complaints to primary care physicians. In children, ear infections are usually caused by bacterial or upper respiratory infections. Ear infections in adults are often secondary to other medical problems, such as sinus infections or dental disease. Understanding what ear infections are, how they [...]
Introduction to Foxglove (Digitalis Purpurea) In the millennia that mankind has been on earth, uncounted millions of people have died from heart ailments. One type of malfunction is now called congestive heart failure, but once it was called dropsy. Some, but not all, of the symptoms of this problem are: fatigue, edema of the abdomen, [...]
The health condition known as constipation can also be called “costiveness,” “dyschezia,” or “dyssynergic defaecation.” It is a topic many people have difficulty discussing. However, almost everyone experiences constipation at least once during his or her lifetime. It is a common gastrointestinal problem that can be both painful and frustrating. However, with some time, effort, [...]
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a disease that manifests as recurrent pain or discomfort in the bladder and the region of the pelvis that surrounds the bladder. The symptoms are usually different for every patient and one patient can have different symptoms with each flare up. Approximately 1 million people are affected by the condition – [...]
Respiratory Diseases are ailments and conditions that impair our respiratory system. The respiratory system is responsible for proper delivery of oxygen throughout the body, removal of carbon dioxide and toxic waste, ample regulation of the body temperature and the stabilization of the body’s pH level. Respiratory diseases are those that affect the lung, bronchial tubes, [...]
Low blood sugar, or hypoglycemia, occurs when blood glucose (sugar) levels fall to abnormal levels. Most doctors define low glucose levels below 70 ml/dl on a glucose meter, although symptoms don’t usually appear until levels fall below 60 ml/dl. (If levels fall below 50 ml/dl brain function is greatly affected.) A glucose reading only takes [...]
What is a Urinary Tract Infection? The system inside the body responsible for making urine and exporting it out of the body is known as the urinary tract. It is made up of the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. If germs or bacteria get anywhere into this system, and infection can occur, known as a [...]
What is Obesity? Obesity is a disease that is overwhelming the American population. Obesity is defined as an excess proportion of body fat to size, more particularly a weight more that twenty percent above the normal weight. Another measure to determine obesity is the body mass index, or BMI. BMI is calculated by multiplying your [...]
Definition of Migraine Headaches A migraine headache is a common type of headache about 30 million Americans suffer from. A migraine is caused by the inflammation of the arteries surrounding the brain. The more swelling and inflammation there is in the arteries, the more severe the pain is of the migraine. Alternative Names of Migraines [...]
Cystitis is the medical term for irritation of the bladder. It is most often the result of a bacterial infection, in which case it is also called a urinary tract infection or bladder infection. It can affect either sex at any age but is predominantly seen in adult women. At least 50% of women will [...]
Definition of Cough A cough (the latin word is “tussis,” which lends its name to the suffix of some cough medicines) is a natural muscle reflex of the body attempting to remove some irritation, collection or blockage from the throat or lungs in order to allow for normal breathing and swallowing. The normal breathing pattern [...]
The liver is one of the most important organs in the human body. As the largest organ inside the body, it is about the size of an American football and weighs 2 to 3 pounds. The liver is located in the upper-right quadrant of the abdomen, under the rib cage. It is composed of two [...]
Dandruff is the commonly-given name to the shedding of skin from the scalp that grows out of control. Dandruff actually occurs in everyone, but it is hardly noticed because it is so discrete. Dandruff is simply when this natural process of skin shedding increases to the point where it leaves flakes of dead skin on [...]
Jaundice is a yellowish discoloration of the pigment in the skin that results in several other problems as well. The condition is most commonly found in newborns and infants but can affect adults as well. The term “Jaundice” comes from the French language and means “yellow”. Alternative Names For Jaundice The most common alternative name [...]
As a new mother, there is distinct research making the case for nurturing the breastfeeding relationship between you and your baby. However, what many women do not hear is the pitfalls and complications that can arise, threatening this precious time with your baby. One of the most common problems that breastfeeding moms face is blocked [...]
Bedwetting is commonly defined as involuntary urination during sleep in children after the age that bladder control normally occurs. It can happen any time the child is asleep, whether day or night, but most commonly occurs during nighttime sleep. Nocturnal enuresis is the term used to describe instances of involuntary urination at night. Primary nocturnal [...]
Pyorrhoea is an advanced form of gingivitis and the symptoms can be very similar. Pyorrhoea is the world’s second most common dental problem following simple tooth decay and gingivitis. Gingivitis is a mild and common form of gum disease that if left untreated or ignored can become the more severe pyorrhoea. Gingivitis is an inflammation [...]
Hysteria, also known as hysterical neurosis, is a psychological state that is caused by extreme emotions such as overwhelming fear or sorrow. The psychological strain will become so severe that the individual will begin showing physical symptoms. The person will be extremely emotional and will often feel pain associated with supposed problems. For centuries, it [...]
Hair loss is a common condition in which a person permanently sheds his hair. Hair can be lost from the head or other parts of the body. Unlike elective removal of excess body hair through shaving, waxing, etc., hair loss and baldness is often unwelcome and can be psychologically damaging to the person experiencing it. [...]
Fever, also known as pyrexia, is any body temperature that is elevated above the normal temperature of 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. Body temperature fluctuates throughout the day, and can elevate due to normal everyday activities, such as exercise. However, an elevated temperature of 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit or higher is considered medically significant, and is usually due [...]
Piles, better known as hemorrhoids, are located within the anal canal. There are typically two classes of piles: external and internal. Each indicates the location of the hemorrhoids. Once swollen or inflamed, they become pathological. Piles are one of today’s most common ailments, affecting several people. Hemorrhoids Piles, or hemorrhoids, is classed as a varicose [...]
Urticaria is commonly known as hives, uredo or needle rash and is a type of allergic reaction that causes the skin to welt into red blotches. The welts are extremely itchy and can cover large areas of the human body including arms, legs, face, stomach and back. The cause of urticaria can be related to [...]
Gray Hair Facts Hair follicles, like skin, bear pigmentation in the form of melanin. For hair, there are two types of melanin: eumelanin (brown pigment) and pheomelanin (black pigment).These are the same melanin types that create the classic stripes of a Tiger or spots of a leopard. Their different combinations will result in blond to [...]
Retaining teeth and lip color are issues that many people face. There are a number of factors that can affect the color of the lips and teeth. Age, gender, race, health conditions as well as environmental factors and diet can also contribute. Before beginning any treatments, you should consult with your doctor and exercise caution [...]
Endometriosis is an illness that affects women of childbearing age with debilitating pain and infertility. Endometriosis causes multiple symptoms that can be difficult to manage, diagnose, and treat. It is thought to affect 5-10% of pre-menopausal women in the United States. Alternative Names for Endometriosis The name endometriosis comes from the Latin form of the [...]
Chafing is a very common problem that touches almost all people. Chances are that nearly everybody is familiar with what chafing is and has experienced it at some point in life. Though it is very annoying to have to deal with chafing, it is more of a discomfort than a serious medical problem in most [...]
Bursitis is a condition that occurs when one or more of the bursae are inflamed. The bursae are small sacs filled with synovial fluid. They are present at the points in the body where components such as muscles and tendons move across the bone. The function of the bursae is to reduce friction and so [...]
Shoulder pain is a common complaint of many people. There are a number of things that could be causing this horrible pain. Depending on the location of this pain and the severity, your options vary with regards to treatment and identifying the problem. Here are seven issues that may be causing your discomfort or pain. [...]
Historically, moles have been thought of as hideous growths that donned the faces of witches and other undesirable characters. Celebrities such as Cindy Crawford, Madonna, and Marilyn Monroe were each photographed with facial moles during their careers. Subsequently, moles became known as beauty marks. Scientifically, moles do indicate a lower incidence of age-related diseases. Experts [...]
Defective vision is defined as the inability to see things clearly due to physical problems with the eye. There are many reasons one may suffer from this malady, including genetic predisposition, physical injury, or even mental issues. Over 150,000 people in the U.S. alone suffer from some form of bad vision, although many cases go [...]
Chest congestion is a common term used to describe a tightness or heavy feeling in the chest. Congestion by definition is the lack of movement. In this case, the movement would be air/oxygen into the lungs. Chest congestion is often seen as a symptom of a number of different ailments from the common cold to [...]
Neuritis is essentially the inflammation of nerves in a specific area of the body. Neuritis causes pain and sensitivity in the affected area of nerve inflammation. A few of the most common sites in the body that tend to be frequently affected by neuritis is the eye or optic nerve, the feet and legs, alternately [...]
Corns are hardened areas of skin that are the result of constant rubbing and pressure placed on specific areas of the body, most commonly the feet. These areas can become painful and bothersome for some people. Symptoms Corns and calluses are skin that becomes thick and hardened. These areas of skin may also appear flaky [...]
Vaginal Infection is a general medical term referring number of fungal, bacterial, and parasitic conditions that effect, but are not limited to, the vaginal area. Vaginal infections are commonly called, yeast infections, vaginitis, yeast overgrowth, or Candida. Doctors will use more specific terms like, Bacterial vaginosis (BV), candidiasis, genital candidiasis, vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), or Trichomoniasis [...]
About Phlegm Phlegm is a word that everybody has heard of before, and it is a condition nearly everybody has had to deal with before, at some point in life. It is a viscous liquid mammalians secrete by way of the mucous membranes. However, phlegm itself, and its definition, is specifically limited to the mucus [...]
Dry, Peeling Skin: Causes, Prevention Tips and Cures Peeling skin is a fairly common medical affliction that affects millions of people every year, and some are faced with the issue on a long-term basis. Skin may peel or dry skin can occur for a number of reasons and vary greatly in the level of severity. [...]
Bruises are the visible result of a trauma that damages or burst the blood vessels under the skin. There are number of traumatic injuries which can cause bruising, most common are blunt or sharp force instrument traumas. Bruises can also appear as a result of a fracture of an extremity or surgical procedure. Bruises are [...]
Basic Description and Alternative Names Lethargy is a persistent condition characterized by constant tiredness. Normally it is also defined as a physical state of sluggishness, where the patient is unable to summon the energy to do any tasks involving even minimal physical labor. This condition is also marked by a persistent inability to feel rested, [...]
Each year thousands of people suffer from heat related illnesses. Some of these illnesses can be treated by taking time to rest and drink fluids, but heat stroke, the most serious of these conditions, may require intense medical treatment. Heat stroke should not be confused with other heat disorders that are less severe. To understand [...]
The skin is the body’s largest organ. Its functions are to protect the body, keep the body at a good temperature, and allow for the sense of touch. It is the only organ that is always exposed to the external environment. There is over 20 square feet of skin on an average human adult. The [...]
Also called pertussis, whooping cough is a severe infection that occurs in the respiratory system from the Bordetella pertussis bacterium, also called B. pertussis. The condition received its name from the main characteristic of the infection which causes a quite severe spell of coughing that is concluded with loud whooping sounds as the person inhales. [...]
Flatulence is a subject with a bit of a stigma attached; not really appropriate for polite conversation, and not something that is encouraged in most settings. But the reality is that flatulence is extremely common and is a natural occurring process that most people experience. While this may be the case, some individuals are afflicted [...]
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix. It causes severe pain in the abdomen and can be treated surgically. An appendectomy is an operation to remove the appendix. The appendix is a small tube, shaped rather like a finger. The average appendix is approximately 4 inches long and about 0.31 inches in diameter. It is [...]
Eye Infections Types, Symptoms, Causes and Cures The first step to treating an eye infection is to identify what type of eye infection you have. There are many types of eye infections, including bacterial, viral and fungal. Allergies can also cause eye irritation that can closely mimic an eye infection. Many types of eye infections [...]
A kidney stone is a small stone shaped buildup or concretion that forms within the kidney as a result of a calcium or other buildups within the urinary tract, ureter, or other area within the bodies digestive system. The concretions are also known as calculi, which is a crystal aggregation. There are a few different [...]
Understanding Sexual Impotence: Causes, Treatments and Cures There are many different types and levels of sexual dysfunction. It is very common for men and women alike to suffer from some form of sexual dysfunction at various points in their lives; occasional sexual dysfunction, meaning problems occur in less than 15-20% of all sexual experiences, is [...]
Causes and Cures for Bacterial Vaginitis Bacterial vaginitis is a condition that occurs in the vagina and causes irritation, inflammation and vaginal itching. Mainly caused by the three most common vaginal infections and diseases, vaginitis affects many women of childbearing age each year. As many as 75% of adult women will report an incidence of [...]
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age and is named for the appearance of the ovaries in this syndrome. Polycystic means many cysts and the ovaries of women with this disorder appear enlarged and contain a populous amount of small cysts on the outer edge of each [...]
Menstrual Problems Could It Be More Than Just a Pain in the Abdomen? Is it really that time of the month already, has it been 28 days? Do you dread certain parts of the month because you know what you have in store for you? If you are between the ages of 12-45, then you [...]
Troublesome dental problems can create a mouthful of pain and discomfort for anyone dealing with a toothache. One of the biggest difficulty dental patients have regarding their dental health is how to treat and cure toothaches. Dental pain, regardless of its origin, can be so disruptive to everyday life, that millions of people each year [...]
When a person feels that fluttering feeling in the heart or feels rapid or pounding heartbeats, they are experiencing what is known as heart palpitations. When a person experiences heart palpitations, it may be due to a number of triggers, such as medication, exercise, stress or, much less commonly, a medical condition that is underlying. [...]
Gastritis refers to a group of different conditions that have a single thing in common, and that is the lining of the stomach being inflamed. The inflammation that gastritis causes is usually due to an infection that is responsible to the majority of stomach ulcers. However, there are several other factors that can contribute to [...]
The kidneys play a huge role in the body. Not only do the kidneys remove waste from the body, but they also maintain fluid and electrolyte balance, and are able to respond to different body needs by either concentration or diluting urine. The kidneys also secrete hormones that are important to many different physiological functions [...]
Acne General overview Blemishes, also known as acne, zits and pimples, are a skin condition that form as a result of excess oil and skin cells that have become clogged inside your pores. Blemishes can occur almost anywhere on the body, but are most commonly observed on the face, neck, back, shoulders and chest. However, [...]
Schizophrenia, also known as Paranoid Schizophrenia, Disorganized Schizophrenia and Catatonic Schizophrenia, is a brain disorder that causes those affected to interpret reality in an abnormal fashion. It is the most chronic and disabling of all mental disorders, and while this disorder can often be managed, there is no cure. It hinders the ability of those [...]
Sore Nipples Causes, Prevention and Remedies Though it might seem like an embarrassing problem, many people experience sore nipples from time to time. Sore nipples don’t necessarily indicate that anything is wrong, and thus the issue usually isn’t really considered a medical condition. However, though typically benign, there are some cases in which sore nipples [...]
When a man experiences inflammation of either one or both of his testicles, he is likely experiencing orchitis. Often, this is a problem associated with the same virus that is known to cause mumps. It is a common problem among males who have contracted the mumps, targeting a full third of them after puberty. It [...]
As they infect certain parts of the body, Lyme disease bacteria can manifest different symptoms at various times. Also, every patient will not necessarily have all of the symptoms that are attributed to it. If you suspect that you are falling victim to this illness, it is essential for you to contact your physician in [...]
Skin Blemishes Acne is a common skin problem that develops as a result of a hormonal imbalance. Most individuals develop acne during adolescence. Adolescents most often experience acne during puberty when their bodies begin to change into adults. However, other age groups are also affected. Individuals may also suffer from baby acne and adult acne, [...]
Female Sterility Female sterility is also known by the more common name of female infertility. In women, infertility is the inability to conceive a child. Alternative names for female sterility include pelvic inflammatory disease and polycystic ovaries, although these properly refer to only two of the diseases that can be responsible for female infertility. Popularly, [...]
Bed Sores Bed sores are breaks to the skin’s integrity, caused by insufficient blood circulation to affected tissues secondary to sustained pressure. Individuals at risk for developing bed sores are those whose primary diagnosis renders them immobile, the wheelchair bound, for example, or patients confined to a bed. Bed sores occur most often over bony [...]
Back Pain Back pain, sometimes referred to as dorsalgia, is one of the most common ailments amongst people all over the world. The vast majority of the population will experience back pain and one point or another in their lifetimes. Approximately 90% of all adults will suffer from back pain in their lifetime, and nearly [...]
What are Spring Ailments? The most common spring ailments for millions of people are the so-called “spring allergies” more commonly known as “hay fever” or “allergic rhinitis”– a respiratory infection caused by spring pollen that is released into the air as trees and plants start to bloom. The most common symptoms include a a runny [...]
Nausea and vomiting are two of the most common symptoms, very often complained about by a number of different people, and this is because these two symptoms can be caused by a whole wealth of different conditions. More often than not, when a person experiences nausea and vomiting, it is because they are experiencing viral [...]
What is Conjunctivitis? Conjunctivitis is the inflammation of the transparent layer of the eye that lines the eyelid, known as the conjunctiva. This inflammation causes the blood vessels in the conjunctiva to become irritated and give off a pink or red color in the whites of the eyes. Conjunctivitis can be referred to as Madras [...]
Chlamydia The CDC estimates that more than two million people between the ages of 14 and 39 are infected with Chlamydia, also referred to as Chlamydia Trachomatis. Many people do not seek treatment because they do not realize they have fallen victim to this silent infection. There is also a certain level of under-reporting because [...]
Vertigo When a person suddenly feels unsteady or suddenly feels like their surrounding are moving and they are standing still, they are likely experiencing vertigo. It may cause a feeling of being spun around on a merry go round or the head may feel like it is spinning all on its own. One of the [...]
What is Liver Cirrhosis? Let’s start of by discussing what the liver is and what it does. The liver is a large organ that is part of the digestive system in the body. Some of its functions are making many important substances that help to digest food and clot blood, controlling the amounts of sugar, [...]
Tonsillitis Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils that is typically due to contraction of a virus or some other type of bacteria. The tonsils are two particularly small glands, one on each side of the throat. The glands can be seen at the back of the mouth in between two membranes that run towards [...]
Alcoholism Alcoholism is one of the most common and prevalent conditions in the world. Each year, millions of people are afflicted and many lives are ruined or put on hold. Despite the popular opinion of many, alcoholism is very much a real disease and is viewed as such by the medical community. Also known as [...]
Premenstrual Syndrome Premenstrual Syndrome, also nicknamed “PMS,” encompasses a whole host of physical, emotional, and mental symptoms affecting women. These symptoms relate to the biological menstrual cycle of women. Symptoms can range from being relatively painless to severely impacting the day-to-day lifestyles of millions of women every day. Alternative Names Symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome can [...]
Headaches For some, headaches are an infrequent inconvenience, but for many, they are a common occurrence that can range from mildly irritating to completely debilitating. Those who are suffering from the excruciating pain of migraines or cluster headaches often miss work, school and social gatherings due to the extent of the pain, and the side [...]
Depression Depression is a mental health disorder that affects over 17 million Americans every year. Depression is more than just a feeling of sadness or loss; it is a clinical illness that requires treatment for suffering individuals to overcome its symptoms. Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, or educational background. Because its [...]
Sore Throats The hallmarks of a sore throat include the always familiar dry scratchiness and the painful swallowing, and it always makes suffers feel miserable. When a person has a sore throat, which is also known as pharyngitis, it is usually because of a viral infection, such as influenza or the common cold. In fact, [...]
Sleep disorders are a disruptive and frustrating occurrence that nearly 30% of the population suffer from in some way. Caused by both physical and mental conditions, sleep disorders are difficult to diagnose and to cure, and can be very hazardous to everyday life. Lack of sleep or improper sleep can cause people to feel lethargic, unaware, and [...]
Irritable Bowel Syndrome Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that has multiple symptoms affecting the abdomen and intestinal tract. IBS has been called a functional disorder in that those diagnosed with the illness have symptoms of disease, but the colon and intestines show little indication of anything abnormal. This creates frustration for those suffering [...]
Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a common disease found in elderly adults. It is a disease of the bones that causes them to become fragile and brittle, easily broken and fractured. This can be life threatening in older adults with their risks of health impairments and already having various impairments. The density of the bone decreases and [...]
Rheumatism Rheumatism, also referred to as rheumatic disorder, involves various medical problems that affect the joints and connective tissue within the body. Any study of the disorder and the treatments of it is called rheumatology. Rheumatism isn’t typically used to name any specific disorder, as the traditional term is used to describe a wide range [...]
Bronchitis Bronchitis is a disease that is characterized by a severe inflammation of the main air passages that stem from the lungs. There are two different types of bronchitis, one being acute (short-lived) and the other lasting a long time and often reoccurring or chronic. Alternative Names for Bronchitis Other names for bronchitis include Acute [...]
Swimmer’s Ear Swimmer’s Ear is a widely-used but sometimes misunderstood term for a very common medical condition, also known as an outer ear infection. Contrary to what the name might suggest, patients needn’t have gone swimming recently to be afflicted by Swimmer’s Ear. The medical term for Swimmer’s Ear is otitis externa, and this type [...]
Zits Zits are a common problem for adolescents, but they can affect people of all ages. Zits are also commonly known as pimples or acne. Specific types of zits are called blackheads or whiteheads depending on the color that forms at the apex of the zit. Zits can occur on any part of the body, [...]
Nosebleed When a nosebleed occurs, it can be both frightening and dramatic, because it seems as if though an endless stream of blood is pouring out of the nostrils. Luckily, the majority of nosebleeds are nothing to worry about and are generally able to be managed at home without any serious consequences; however, sometimes a [...]
Sinusitis Sinusitis (sometimes known as rhino-sinusitis since the sinus cavities by default affect and usually cause inflammation of the nose) is inflammation of the sinuses which may or may not lead to infection. Sinusitis is often caused by allergies or allergic reaction, but may also result from autoimmune issues, bacterial infection, fungal infection, or viral [...]
Overview of Hyperthyroidism Hyperthyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland produces too much of the thyroid hormones thyroxine (T4) and/or triiodothyronine (T3). The thyroid is an important gland in the endocrine system that is responsible for controlling the body’s metabolism. Over production of thyroid hormones can serve to excite the sympathetic nervous system and [...]
What Causes Sunburn Being in direct sunlight for a prolonged period of time can result in sunburn, which is a painful burn caused by ultraviolet light on the surface of the skin. Ultraviolet light is broken down into two categories: UVA and UVB rays. Both can cause sunburn. Tanning beds have been designed to emit [...]
Ringworm of the body is one of many forms of the fungal infection known as ringworm, which is known to develop on the outermost layer of the skin. Its main characterization is a red rash that is itchy and shaped like a circle, with a patch of normal looking skin within it. It is this [...]
Finding out your child has lice is embarrassing, but it shouldn’t be. There are many myths about head lice, and knowing the truth can not only help you deal with the embarrassing feelings, but also help you clean your home of them as quickly as possible. Getting rid of lice can take time, but with [...]
Stress Stress is a condition that causes psychological strain and discomfort. If severe enough, stress can also cause serious physiological problems. The word stress comes from the Latin “stringere” which means “to draw tight”. Stress can be as simple as worrying about an upcoming exam or as complex as being in a dangerous combat zone, [...]
Malaria Malaria’s widely known fear factor makes it hard to believe that this often fatal disease is caused by the bite of a tiny mosquito. While the disease in name doesn’t spark as much panic as it used to, malaria still kills more people each year than AIDS, one million of which are children. Malaria [...]
When the larynx, or the voice box, comes inflamed, it is known as laryngitis. The larynx is located just atop of the trachea, which is where the throat and the lungs cross and meet up. The larynx has two separate folds of skin on either side of it, which are called the vocal cords. The [...]
Snoring is a harmless annoyance that affects roughly 59% of American adults. While snoring provides no cause for serious concerns, it can be a sign of sleep apnea or other sleep disorders, though this may not always be the case. Most people who deal with snoring problems will not even recognize that they snore during [...]
Nearly everybody has had the flu at some point or knows someone who has. Also known as influenza, this is an infection caused by a virus that attacks the respiratory system, which includes the lungs, bronchial tubes, nose and throat. Those who generally have a healthy slate and catch influenza is likely to feel pretty [...]
Hemorrhoids Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are blood vessels and masses of supporting fibrous tissue inside the anus and anal canal. The anal canal is medically described as being the area from the anus, extending inward approximately four inches, to the base of the rectum. It is widely believed that hemorrhoids are an abnormal condition [...]
Athlete’s Foot Athlete’s foot is a common skin infection found in a group of related fungal skin infections known as tinea. The medical terms associated with athlete’s foot include tinea pedia, plantaris, dermatophytosis Palmaris, and interdigitalis. These infections are caused by a number of mold-like fungi, known as dermatophytes, which reside in dead tissues on the hair, [...]
Eczema is a broad term a for wide variety of skin conditions, but its true synonym is atopic dermatitis meaning that it is found on the top layers of inflamed skin. It can often be confused for, or misdiagnosed as, psoriasis and urticaria because they all share similar symptoms. Symptoms of Eczema Symptoms for eczema [...]
Hives Hives is an irritation of the skin that is characterized by itchy, swollen, inflamed welts that form on the exterior of the skin. Hives can be caused by exposure to many different activities and substances, the most common of which are related to allergic reactions. Hives can occur anywhere on the body and is [...]
Diaper Rash Introduction to Diaper Rash Diaper rash is a fairly common symptom among newborn babies, infants and toddlers as they wear diapers. It mainly occurs when a wet diaper causes friction against the baby’s skin and irritates it enough to cause a rash. Parents worry about their children’s health when they see diaper rash [...]
Nausea Nausea is a term derived from the Greek word meaning seasickness or wamble. Alternative names include: emesis, stomach upset, and upset stomach. These terms define the feeling of unease and a slight to severe discomfort within the upper stomach that gives the afflicted the urge to vomit, or throw up, which occurs when the [...]
The mumps is a condition that everyone has heard of in their time; it is an infection that primarily targets the parotid glands, which are one of the three pairs of salivary glands that are found in front of and below the ears. It is caused by a virus. If either an adult or a [...]
Remedies for Hyperhidrosis Not many of Americans have been there. A handshake upon walking into a job interview that you are dreading because you know your palms will be sweaty. Or you find the perfect dress to wear on your night out on the town, but you know you can’t purchase it because it will [...]
What are Cataracts? A cataract, a common eye condition among the elderly, is a clouding of the lens that can greatly affect the clarity of your vision. The lens is the portion of your eye that aids in focusing light onto your retina. In a healthy lens, the color will be clear and transparent. However, [...]
What is low blood pressure? Low blood pressure, also called hypotension, occurs when the force of the blood pushing against the walls of arteries is lower than it should be. When this happens, the heart is not pushing the blood out with enough force for it to get to the entire body, and crucial organs [...]
High Blood Pressure Remedies Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a cardiovascular disease characterized by abnormally high blood pressure. Blood pressure is the force of the blood against the walls of blood vessels in the body. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure is essential to prevent cardiovascular diseases like heart attack or stroke, as well as [...]
Asthma Asthma is a chronic condition of the cardiopulmonary system that causes inflammation and constriction of bronchial airways, making it difficult to breathe. Onset of asthma can range from being slow and mild to sudden and severe. A moderate to severe onset of symptoms is known as an asthma attack. The presence of asthma symptoms [...]
Acne is a disorder that effects 80% of people between the ages of 11 and 30. This disease is caused by the overproduction of sebum in the glands beneath the skin, which in turn become irritated and create unsightly blemishes or pimples. There are many types of pimples: Whiteheads Blackheads Papules Pustules Nodules Cysts Whiteheads [...]
Peptic Ulcer A very painful and very common affliction, a peptic ulcer is an open sore that has erupted within the stomach lining. Also called ulcus pepticum, peptic ulcer disease, and PUD, a peptic ulcer consists of an area within the stomach lining that contains a high amount of acid, creating the painful effect that [...]
High Cholesterol Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that can build up along the walls of one’s arteries, causing atherosclerosis. If the arteries become blocked or narrowed by excess cholesterol, or plaque, the blood cannot transport the required oxygen to the heart or brain, resulting in heart attack or stroke. Having high cholesterol increases one’s chance [...]
Gingivitis Gingivitis refers to inflammation of the gums that surround the teeth. The irritation is typically caused by a build-up of plaque on the tooth surfaces along the gum line. Gingivitis is one periodontal disease. There are many periodontal diseases, with gingivitis being less severe than the others. Gingivitis is also referred to as periodontal [...]
What are Hiccups? Hiccups are a common and non-threatening phenomenon that occurs in almost all human beings at some point in their life, most commonly when they are children. While irritating, they are not threatening and serve to be little more than an annoyance to most people. Severe cases may require medicinal treatment or special [...]
Wrinkles People have been searching for the “Fountain of Youth” since the 16th century. Although the discovery of it was accredited to Ponce de Leon, there is no proof of this, and the legend did not come about until after his death. However, that does not stop people from visiting St. Augustine, Florida, home of [...]
What exactly is a cold sore? A cold sore is a common ailment. They are commonly called fever blisters, or they are known medically as herpes labialis. A cold sore consists of small blisters that form close to the mouth and on the lips. These blisters cause the skin close to them to become red, [...]
Introduction to Head Lice Head lice, latin name Pediculus humanus capitis, is a parasitic insect that is found in the hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes of humans. Although some refer to head lice as scabies, this is a misnomer. Scabies is caused by a mite and not head lice. Head lice feed on human blood for [...]
Prostate Disorders About the Prostate The prostate gland is anatomically positioned inferior to the urinary bladder and is roughly the size of a walnut. By the time a man reaches the age of twenty, the gland weighs approximately twenty grams. As the age of a person increases, the gland begins to grow at a slow [...]
It is not uncommon for men to sometimes ejaculate much sooner during sexual intercourse than either they or their partner would prefer them to. It is not anything to be concerned about if this is an infrequent occasion. However, if this happens on a regular basis, such as shortly after or before intercourse begins, there [...]
Cracked Heels Dry skin is a primary culprit of cracked heels. The body produces no oil in the palms of hands and on the bottom of the feet. Therefore, the area remains dry most of the time. The feet require more care than other parts of the body in order to remain moisturized and free [...]
Jock Itch If you are male and engage in any type of rigorous exercise, then you undoubtedly have become familiar with a common, irritating condition called “jock itch.” There are a variety of other names associated with this affliction like jock rot, sweaty balls, or tinea cruris. Although this condition is contracted principally by males, [...]
Tennis Elbow Tennis elbow is a painful affliction that is also known as lateral epicondylitis, shooter’s elbow and archer’s elbow. Tennis elbow describes an affliction in which the outer area of the elbow becomes painful and tender, typically attributed to the playing of some sort of sport that uses the elbow such as tennis, racquet [...]
Burned Mouth Syndrome (BMS) Overview Burning tongue syndrome (BMS) has many different alternative names including scalded mouth syndrome, burning lips syndrome, glossodynia, glossopyrosis, stomatodynia, stomatopyrosis, and oral galvanism. Regardless of the name, the condition involves chronic, burning pain in the tongue, gums, lips, and inside of the mouth. While there aren’t any visible signs or [...]
Burns Burn injuries are one of the most common reasons for visits to the doctor or emergency room each year. With so many ways to burn yourself, it’s not uncommon for someone to suffer minor or even serious burns while at work, home, or even on vacation. There are many home remedies and treatments for [...]
Sleep Apnea Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which a person’s breathing pauses repeatedly during sleep and one or more breaths are missed. The disorder is considered clinically significant, and therefore in need of further investigation, if the pauses last for ten seconds and occur at least five times per hour. The consequences of [...]
Backache Having a backache is not uncommon. In fact, about 80 percent of people in this country will have some type of injury or other condition that results in a backache at some point in their life. Lower back pain is just about the biggest reason that people miss work or visit their doctor. Luckily, [...]
Bloating: Symptoms, Cures, Causes & Remedies Abdominal bloating, also known as meteorism, is a common condition tin which the abdomen feels full and tight. It is a condition that originates in your stomach and seems to travel throughout your body. Virtually everyone has had to endure the uncomfortable feeling of bloating at one point or [...]
Fevers Fevers are your body’s way of letting you know something is off – your internal temperature is rising because your body is attempting to fight off an invading virus or infection. There are many causes for the common fever, most of which are mild or only slightly worrysome. Some causes, however, can be an [...]
Body Rash Dermatitis is a general term that covers a wide spectrum of different skin rashes. From an irritant as simple as laundry soap to a rash incurred by brushing up against a coral reef on a deep-sea dive, they all fall under the same category. Broken down into basics, a rash is an abnormal [...]
Boils are complete individual hair follicles that build up with pus and dead tissue caused by a staphylococcus infection. Alternative Names These nodules are most often referred to as boils, but there are alternative names for this same condition that include: Carbuncles Carbunculosis Furuncles Furunculous Infection of the hair follicle Hair Follicle Infection Skin Abscesses [...]
Understanding Anxiety Anxiety is the normal reaction to a stressor in a person’s environment. Everyone experiences anxiety due to small, everyday events. Some may be nervous about a job interview, getting married, or even paying a bill. These are all normal causes of stress. An anxiety disorder is something entirely different, though. When someone experiences anxious [...]