Conditions
Vasculitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment
Introduction
Vasculitis is a general term for a group of diseases that cause inflammation of the blood vessels. The inflammation can cause the walls of the blood vessels to thicken, which reduces the width of the passageway through the vessel. This can reduce blood flow, leading to organ and tissue …
Jock Itch: What It Is, Symptoms and Treatment
Introduction
Jock itch (tinea cruris) is a common fungal infection that affects the skin of the groin, inner thighs, and buttocks. It's caused by a type of fungus called dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, moist environments. While jock itch can be itchy and uncomfortable, it's usually a mild infection that …
Hammertoes: Causes, Relief and Treatment
Introduction
Hammertoe is a foot deformity that causes an abnormal bend in the middle joint of a toe, making it resemble a hammer. This condition typically affects the second, third, or fourth toe and can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty walking. While hammertoes can develop at any age, they are …
Decidual Cast: Shedding, Causes, Pain and Treatment
Introduction:
The term "decidual cast" might sound intimidating, but it refers to a rare gynecological phenomenon that involves the shedding of the entire lining of the uterus (the endometrium) in one piece, resembling a cast of the uterine cavity. While it can be alarming, a decidual cast is not typically …
Hodgkin Lymphoma: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Causes and Treatment
Introduction
Hodgkin lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, a crucial part of the body's immune system. It arises when lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, grow abnormally and spread beyond the lymph nodes. This can lead to a range of symptoms and potentially life-threatening …
Kidney Infection, Pyelonephritis: Symptoms and Treatment
Introduction
A kidney infection, also known as pyelonephritis, is a serious condition that occurs when bacteria infect the kidneys. It typically develops as a complication of a urinary tract infection (UTI) that spreads from the bladder to one or both kidneys. Kidney infections require prompt medical attention to prevent potentially …
Pleurisy: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Prevention
Introduction
Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is a condition that affects the thin layers of tissue lining the lungs and chest cavity, known as the pleura. These membranes act as lubricants, allowing the lungs to move smoothly within the chest during breathing. Pleurisy occurs when these layers become inflamed, causing …
Salmonella: Outbreaks, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Introduction
Salmonella is a type of bacteria that can cause food poisoning. It’s one of the most common causes of foodborne illness in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), salmonella bacteria cause about 1.35 million infections, 26,500 hospitalizations, and 420 …
Hypoxia: Causes, Symptoms, Tests, Diagnosis and Treatment
Introduction
Hypoxia is a condition that occurs when the body's tissues do not receive enough oxygen. This can happen for a variety of reasons, such as a problem with the lungs or circulatory system. Hypoxia can be a serious condition, and it is important to seek medical attention if you …
Clinical Depression, Major Depressive Disorder: Symptoms
Introduction
Clinical depression, also known as major depressive disorder (MDD), is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease a person’s ability to …