Clear, reliable, and accessible information to empower your health decisions.
A rare disorder that makes it difficult for food and liquid to pass from the swallowing tube connecting the mouth and stomach (esophagus) into the stomach. It occurs when nerves in the esophagus become damaged, preventing the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) from relaxing.
A hormonal disorder that results from too much growth hormone (GH) in the body. In adults, this condition is called acromegaly, leading to enlargement of bones in the hands, feet, and face. In children, it is called gigantism and causes excessive growth in height.
An illness caused by exposure to a high dose of penetrating radiation in a short period of time. The radiation damages the body's cells, particularly those in the bone marrow and gastrointestinal tract.
Also known as primary adrenal insufficiency, this is a rare disorder that occurs when the adrenal glands, located on top of the kidneys, do not produce enough of the hormones cortisol and aldosterone.
An emotional or behavioral reaction to a stressful event or change in a person's life. The reaction is considered an unhealthy or excessive response to the event or change and occurs within three months of the event.
A disorder in which the adrenal glands don't produce enough of certain hormones. Primary adrenal insufficiency is known as Addison's disease. Secondary adrenal insufficiency occurs when the pituitary gland doesn't produce enough adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH).
An eye disease that can blur your central vision. It happens when aging causes damage to the macula — the part of the eye that controls sharp, straight-ahead vision. There are two types: dry AMD (more common) and wet AMD (more serious).
A common autoimmune disorder that often results in unpredictable hair loss. It can affect anyone regardless of age and gender, though most cases occur before the age of 30. In this condition, the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing hair to fall out in small, round patches.
A group of symptoms that can strike if you walk or climb to a higher elevation, or altitude, too quickly. The pressure of the air that surrounds you is lower at higher altitudes, meaning there is less available oxygen.
A progressive neurodegenerative disease that causes brain cells to degenerate and die, leading to a steady decline in memory and mental function. It is the most common cause of dementia and is irreversible.
A rare disease that occurs when a substance called amyloid, an abnormal protein, builds up in organs. Amyloid is not normally found in the body, but it can be formed from several different types of protein. This buildup can make it difficult for the organs to work properly.
A progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells (motor neurons) in the brain and the spinal cord. ALS causes the loss of muscle control, and the disease gets worse over time. It does not typically impair a person's senses or thinking ability.
An uncommon type of cancer that occurs in the anal canal, a short tube at the end of the rectum through which stool leaves the body. It is distinct from colorectal cancer.
A severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to something you're allergic to. Anaphylaxis causes your immune system to release a flood of chemicals that can cause you to go into shock.
A type of inflammatory arthritis that, over time, can cause some of the small bones in the spine (vertebrae) to fuse. This fusing makes the spine less flexible and can result in a hunched-forward posture. It primarily affects the spine but can also cause inflammation in other parts of the body.
An eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted perception of weight. People with anorexia place a high value on controlling their weight and shape, using extreme efforts that tend to significantly interfere with their lives.
The partial or complete loss of the sense of smell. This loss may be temporary or permanent. Because taste is closely linked to smell, people with anosmia often report that food tastes bland.
A serious infectious disease caused by gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis. It occurs naturally in soil and commonly affects domestic and wild animals around the world. People can get sick with anthrax if they come in contact with infected animals or contaminated animal products.
An improper beating of the heart, whether irregular, too fast (tachycardia), or too slow (bradycardia). Heart arrhythmias occur when the electrical impulses that coordinate heartbeats don't work properly. Some are harmless, but others can be life-threatening.
A chronic respiratory disease characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways. This leads to recurring episodes of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, and coughing. The severity can range from minor to life-threatening.
A common and generally treatable imperfection in the curvature of your eye that causes blurred distance and near vision. Astigmatism occurs when either the front surface of your eye (cornea) or the lens inside your eye has mismatched curves.
The hardening and narrowing of the arteries due to the buildup of plaque (fats, cholesterol, and other substances) on the artery walls. This process can restrict blood flow and lead to serious problems, including heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease.
A fungal infection that usually begins between the toes. It commonly occurs in people whose feet have become very sweaty while confined within tight-fitting shoes.
A chronic, inflammatory skin condition that results in dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It is common in children but can occur at any age. Eczema is often associated with other allergic conditions like asthma and hay fever. It is not contagious.
An irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. During AFib, the heart's two upper chambers (the atria) beat chaotically and irregularly — out of coordination with the two lower chambers (the ventricles).
A chronic disease in which the body's own immune system attacks the liver and causes it to become inflamed. The disease is chronic and, if untreated, can lead to cirrhosis and liver failure.
A genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys. These cysts cause the kidneys to become enlarged and lose function over time. ADPKD is the most common inherited kidney disease.
A rare disorder that causes chronic inflammation in blood vessels throughout the body. The signs and symptoms of Behçet's disease — which may seem unrelated at first — can include mouth sores, eye inflammation, skin rashes and lesions, and genital sores.
A condition causing sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. It is thought to be caused by inflammation of the facial nerve. Most people with Bell's palsy recover fully within a few months.
An age-associated prostate gland enlargement that can cause bothersome lower urinary tract symptoms. BPH is not prostate cancer and does not increase the risk of cancer, but the symptoms can be similar.
A mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania or hypomania) and lows (depression). These shifts can affect sleep, energy, activity, judgment, and the ability to think clearly.
A common type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder. It most often begins in the cells (urothelial cells) that line the inside of your bladder. It typically affects older adults, though it can occur at any age.
A mental health condition in which you can't stop thinking about one or more perceived defects or flaws in your appearance — a flaw that appears minor or can't be seen by others. The perceived flaw and the repetitive behaviors cause significant distress and impact your ability to function in your daily life.
A medical condition in which there is a partial or complete break in the continuity of the bone. In more severe cases, the bone may be broken into several pieces. A fracture can result from high force impact or stress, or a trivial injury as a result of a medical condition that weakens the bones, such as osteoporosis.
A mental health disorder that impacts the way you think and feel about yourself and others, causing problems functioning in everyday life. It includes self-image issues, difficulty managing emotions and behavior, and a pattern of unstable relationships.
A rare but serious illness caused by a toxin that attacks the body's nerves and causes difficulty breathing, muscle paralysis, and even death. The toxin is made by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum.
A mass or growth of abnormal cells in your brain. Many different types of brain tumors exist. Some are noncancerous (benign), and some are cancerous (malignant). Treatment options depend on the type of brain tumor, as well as its size and location.
A cancer that forms in the cells of the breasts. It can occur in both men and women, but is far more common in women. Early detection through self-exams and mammograms significantly improves outcomes.
A long-term condition where the airways of the lungs become abnormally widened, leading to a buildup of excess mucus that can make the lungs more vulnerable to infection. The lung damage is permanent.
A serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder characterized by a cycle of bingeing and compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting designed to undo or compensate for the effects of binge eating.
A rare autoimmune skin disease characterized by large, fluid-filled blisters (bullae). It develops on areas of skin that often flex, such as the lower abdomen, upper thighs or armpits. It is most common in older adults.
Tissue damage that results from heat, overexposure to the sun or other radiation, or chemical or electrical contact. Burns can be minor medical problems or life-threatening emergencies. The severity is graded by depth (first, second, third, or fourth degree).
Inflammation of the bursae, which are small, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between bones and the muscles, tendons, or skin near your joints. Bursitis occurs when bursae become inflamed.
A contagious respiratory disease caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The severity ranges from asymptomatic or mild symptoms to severe illness, hospitalization, and death. It can also lead to long-term health problems known as "long COVID."
A fungal infection caused by a yeast (a type of fungus) called Candida. Candida normally lives on the skin and inside the body without causing problems. However, it can multiply and cause an infection if the environment inside the body changes in a way that encourages its growth.
A condition that causes numbness, tingling, and other symptoms in the hand and arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a compressed median nerve in the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist.
A clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. For people who have cataracts, seeing through cloudy lenses is a bit like looking through a frosty or fogged-up window. Most cataracts develop slowly and don't disturb your eyesight early on.
A serious autoimmune disorder where eating gluten (a protein in wheat, barley, and rye) triggers an immune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage prevents the absorption of nutrients from food (malabsorption).
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 on the face, arms and other areas.
A group of disorders that affect a person's ability to move and maintain balance and posture. It is the most common motor disability in childhood and is caused by abnormal brain development or damage to the developing brain that affects motor control.
A type of cancer that occurs in the cells of the cervix — the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina. Various strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection, play a role in causing most cervical cancer.
An inflammatory, infectious disease caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. It is spread by the feces of the triatomine bug (kissing bug). If untreated, Chagas disease can later cause serious heart and digestive problems.
A very contagious infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It is most known for causing an itchy, blister-like rash. The virus remains dormant in the body after the initial illness and can reactivate later in life to cause shingles.
A viral disease transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes. It causes fever and severe joint pain. The joint pain is often debilitating and can vary in duration.
A common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by bacteria. It can infect both men and women and can cause serious, permanent damage to a woman's reproductive system, making it difficult or impossible for her to get pregnant later on.
An acute diarrheal illness caused by infection of the intestine with the bacterium Vibrio cholerae. It can be severe and life-threatening if not treated, causing rapid loss of body fluids leading to dehydration and shock.
A long-term skin disease that occurs when hair follicles become plugged with oil and dead skin cells. It often causes whiteheads, blackheads or pimples, and usually appears on the face, forehead, chest, upper back and shoulders. While common in teenagers, many adults suffer from chronic, persistent acne.
A condition in which you lack enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues. While anemia can be acute, chronic anemia is often a symptom of an underlying chronic disease, such as kidney disease, cancer, or an autoimmune disorder.
Refers to swelling in the deep layers of the skin, often seen with hives (urticaria). When it recurs over long periods without an identifiable allergic trigger, it is considered chronic. It can affect the hands, feet, face, and airway.
A serious condition where a blood clot (thrombus) forms in one or more of the deep veins in the body, usually in the legs. While DVT can be an acute event, many patients develop long-term complications known as post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS), making it a chronic condition.
A group of diseases that injure the part of the kidney that filters blood (called glomeruli). When the kidney is injured, it cannot get rid of wastes and extra fluid in the body. If the illness continues, the kidneys may stop working completely, resulting in kidney failure. The chronic form develops silently over several years.
Swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum, similar to varicose veins. While often an acute issue, they can become a chronic, recurring problem for many individuals, causing repeated discomfort, pain, and bleeding.
A common sleep disorder that can make it hard to fall asleep, hard to stay asleep, or cause you to wake up too early and not be able to get back to sleep. Chronic insomnia occurs at least three nights a week for three months or longer and is not linked to another health problem.
The gradual loss of kidney function over a period of months or years. The kidneys filter waste and excess fluids from the blood. As CKD advances, dangerous levels of fluid, electrolytes, and waste can build up in the body.
A subtype of migraine defined as having headaches on 15 or more days per month for more than three months, with at least eight of those days having features of migraine headache. It is a debilitating neurological condition that differs from episodic migraine in its frequency and impact on daily life.
A chronic inflammatory lung disease that causes obstructed airflow from the lungs. It encompasses two main conditions: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. Damage to the lungs from COPD is irreversible and typically worsens over time.
A condition in which hives (itchy, red welts) appear for six weeks or more with no known cause. The hives can appear anywhere on the body and can change in size and shape. It is often a frustrating and uncomfortable condition.
A late stage of scarring (fibrosis) of the liver caused by many forms of liver diseases and conditions, such as chronic alcoholism and hepatitis. Each time the liver is injured, it tries to repair itself, forming scar tissue. As cirrhosis progresses, more scar tissue forms, making it difficult for the liver to function.
A bacterium that can cause symptoms ranging from diarrhea to life-threatening inflammation of the colon. It most commonly affects older adults in hospitals or long-term care facilities and typically occurs after use of antibiotic medications.
Cancer that starts in the colon or the rectum. These cancers can also be named colon cancer or rectal cancer, depending on where they start. Most colorectal cancers begin as a growth called a polyp on the inner lining of the colon or rectum.
A mild viral infection of the nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It is extremely common and usually harmless, though it can cause significant discomfort. More than 200 virus strains can cause a cold, but rhinoviruses are the most common culprits.
A type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells.
The most common type of heart disease. It occurs when the major blood vessels that supply the heart with blood, oxygen, and nutrients (coronary arteries) become damaged or diseased, typically due to a buildup of cholesterol-containing deposits (plaque), a process known as atherosclerosis.
A rare, degenerative, and invariably fatal brain disorder. It is a type of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE), also known as a prion disease. CJD appears to be caused by an abnormal infectious protein called a prion.
A condition that occurs from exposure to high cortisol levels for a long time. The most common cause is the use of oral corticosteroid medication. The condition can also occur when your body makes too much cortisol on its own.
A progressive, inherited disorder that causes severe damage to the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. It affects the cells that produce mucus, sweat, and digestive juices, causing these fluids to become thick and sticky, which then plug up tubes, ducts, and passageways.
A harmful reduction in the amount of water in the body. It occurs when you use or lose more fluid than you take in, and your body doesn't have enough water and other fluids to carry out its normal functions.
A mosquito-borne viral infection found in tropical and sub-tropical climates. While most cases are mild, dengue can sometimes evolve into severe dengue, a life-threatening complication.
A rare disorder that causes an imbalance of fluids in the body. This imbalance leads you to produce large amounts of urine and feel very thirsty. It is not related to diabetes mellitus (sugar diabetes), but it shares some signs and symptoms.
A group of metabolic disorders characterized by high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) over a prolonged period. It stems from problems with the hormone insulin. Type 2 is the most common form.
A diabetes complication that affects eyes. It's caused by damage to the blood vessels of the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye (retina). At first, it might cause no symptoms or only mild vision problems, but it can lead to blindness.
A serious bacterial infection that usually affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat. Diphtheria typically causes a sore throat, fever, swollen glands and weakness. Its hallmark sign is a sheet of thick, gray material covering the back of the throat, which can block the airway.
A condition that occurs when small, bulging pouches (diverticula) that can form in the lining of your digestive system become inflamed or infected. Diverticulitis can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, nausea, and a marked change in your bowel habits.
A genetic condition that occurs when there is an extra full or partial copy of chromosome 21. This extra genetic material alters the course of development and causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome.
A rare but severe, often fatal illness in humans. The virus is transmitted to people from wild animals (such as fruit bats, porcupines, and non-human primates) and then spreads in the human population through direct contact with the blood, secretions, organs or other bodily fluids of infected people.
A group of inherited disorders that affect your connective tissues — primarily your skin, joints, and blood vessel walls. People who have EDS usually have overly flexible joints and stretchy, fragile skin. There are many different types, with the hypermobile type (hEDS) being the most common.
A painful disorder in which tissue similar to the tissue that normally lines the inside of your uterus — the endometrium — grows outside your uterus. Endometriosis most commonly involves your ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the tissue lining your pelvis.
A chronic immune system disease in which a type of white blood cell (eosinophil) builds up in the lining of the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach (esophagus). This buildup, which is a reaction to foods, allergens or acid reflux, can inflame or injure the esophageal tissue.
A chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures. A seizure is a sudden rush of electrical activity in the brain. There are many different types of seizures, varying from brief and nearly undetectable periods to long periods of vigorous shaking.
Cancer that occurs in the esophagus — a long, hollow tube that runs from the throat to the stomach. There are two main subtypes: squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma.
A nervous system (neurological) disorder that causes involuntary and rhythmic shaking. It can affect almost any part of the body, but the trembling occurs most often in the hands — especially when trying to do simple tasks, such as drinking from a glass or tying shoelaces.
A disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory, and mood issues. It's believed that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting how the brain and spinal cord process pain signals.
An illness caused by eating contaminated food. Infectious organisms — including bacteria, viruses and parasites — or their toxins are the most common causes of food poisoning.
A genetic condition that causes a range of developmental problems including learning disabilities and cognitive impairment. Usually, males are more severely affected by this disorder than females. It is the most common known cause of inherited intellectual disability.
An injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. First your skin becomes very cold and red, then numb, hard and pale. Frostbite is most common on the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks and chin.
An uncommon cancer that begins in the gallbladder, a small, pear-shaped organ on the right side of the abdomen, just beneath the liver. It is difficult to diagnose as it often causes no specific signs or symptoms in the early stages.
Hardened deposits of digestive fluid that can form in your gallbladder, a small organ located beneath the liver. Gallstones range in size from as small as a grain of sand to as large as a golf ball.
A general term for a group of conditions with one thing in common: inflammation of the lining of the stomach. Gastritis may occur suddenly (acute gastritis) or appear slowly over time (chronic gastritis).
A chronic digestive disease that occurs when stomach acid or, occasionally, stomach content, flows back into your food pipe (esophagus). This backwash (reflux) irritates the lining of your esophagus and causes GERD.
A condition that affects the normal spontaneous movement of the muscles (motility) in the stomach. In gastroparesis, the stomach's motility is slowed down or doesn't work at all, preventing the stomach from emptying properly. This can interfere with digestion and cause nausea and vomiting.
Characterized by persistent and excessive worry about a number of different things. People with GAD may anticipate disaster and may be overly concerned about money, health, family, work, or other issues. The worry is often out of proportion to the actual circumstance.
An inflammation of the lining of your arteries. Most often, it affects the arteries in your head, especially those in your temples. For this reason, it is sometimes called temporal arteritis. It frequently causes headaches, scalp tenderness, jaw pain and vision problems. If untreated, it can lead to blindness.
An intestinal infection caused by a microscopic parasite called Giardia lamblia. It is a common cause of waterborne disease and is found worldwide. People become infected by swallowing Giardia cysts found in contaminated food or water.
A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, the health of which is vital for good vision. This damage is often caused by an abnormally high pressure in your eye (intraocular pressure). It is one of the leading causes of irreversible blindness.
A group of eye conditions that damage the optic nerve, often caused by abnormally high pressure in the eye. It is a chronic, progressive disease that is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. It requires lifelong management.
An abnormal enlargement of your thyroid gland. Although goiters are usually painless, a large goiter can cause a cough and make it difficult for you to swallow or breathe. A goiter can be a sign that the thyroid gland is not making enough hormone (hypothyroidism) or too much hormone (hyperthyroidism).
A sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by a bacterium. It can infect both men and women, affecting the genitals, rectum, and throat. Untreated gonorrhea can cause serious and permanent health problems.
A common and complex form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, and redness in a joint, often the big toe. Gout is caused by a condition known as hyperuricemia, where there is too much uric acid in the blood, which then forms sharp crystals in the joints.
A rare disorder that causes inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis) in the nose, sinuses, throat, lungs and kidneys. This inflammation restricts blood flow to these organs, potentially damaging them.
An immune system disorder that results in the overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism). It is the most common cause of hyperthyroidism. The immune system produces an antibody that mimics thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), causing the thyroid to overproduce hormones.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks the body's immune system, specifically CD4 cells (T cells). If left untreated, HIV can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), where the immune system is critically damaged and vulnerable to life-threatening opportunistic infections.
A mild, contagious viral infection common in young children. It is characterized by sores in the mouth and a rash on the hands and feet. It is most commonly caused by a coxsackievirus.
A severe, sometimes fatal, respiratory disease in humans caused by infection with hantaviruses. It is primarily transmitted by the inhalation of aerosols containing virus from the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents.
An autoimmune disorder in which your immune system creates antibodies that attack your thyroid gland. This leads to chronic inflammation and impairs the thyroid's ability to produce hormones, most commonly resulting in an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).
An infestation of the scalp by the head louse, a tiny, wingless parasitic insect that feeds on human blood. Head lice are very common, especially among preschool and elementary school-aged children.
The result of sound signals not reaching the brain. There are three basic types of hearing loss: conductive (involving the outer or middle ear), sensorineural (involving the inner ear), and mixed (a combination of the two).
A chronic, progressive condition in which the heart muscle is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs for blood and oxygen. It doesn't mean the heart has stopped, but rather that it is not working as efficiently as it should.
The most serious form of heat injury, a condition caused by your body overheating, usually as a result of prolonged exposure to or physical exertion in high temperatures. This most serious form of heat injury can occur if your body temperature rises to 104 F (40 C) or higher and is a medical emergency.
A rare, inherited bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly. This can lead to spontaneous bleeding as well as bleeding following injuries or surgery. Blood contains many proteins, called clotting factors, that can help to stop bleeding. People with hemophilia have low levels of either factor VIII (hemophilia A) or factor IX (hemophilia B).
A highly contagious liver infection caused by the hepatitis A virus (HAV). It is typically a short-term illness and does not become chronic. It spreads through ingestion of contaminated food or water.
A serious liver infection caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV). For some people, the infection becomes chronic, leading to liver failure, liver cancer, or cirrhosis. It is spread through contact with infected blood and certain other body fluids.
A viral infection that causes liver inflammation, sometimes leading to serious liver damage. The hepatitis C virus (HCV) spreads through contaminated blood. Most people have no symptoms, and many do not know they have it until liver damage shows up decades later.
A disorder that causes the body to absorb too much iron from the diet. The excess iron is stored in organs, especially the liver, heart, and pancreas. The excess iron can poison these organs, leading to conditions such as liver disease, heart problems, and diabetes.
A condition which refers to a problem with one of the rubbery cushions (discs) that sit between the individual bones (vertebrae) that stack to make your spine. A herniated disc occurs when some of the softer "jelly" pushes out through a tear in the tougher exterior.
A chronic inflammatory skin disease that causes painful, boil-like lumps under the skin. The lumps often break open, releasing pus with an unpleasant odor, and can lead to tunnels under the skin (sinus tracts) and significant scarring. It typically occurs where skin rubs together, such as the armpits, groin, and under the breasts.
A fatal genetic disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. It deteriorates a person's physical and mental abilities during their prime working years and has no cure. It has a broad impact on functional abilities and usually results in movement, thinking (cognitive), and psychiatric disorders.
A common vision condition in which you can see distant objects clearly, but objects nearby may be blurry. The degree of your farsightedness influences your focusing ability. It occurs when your eyeball is shorter than normal or your cornea is curved too little.
A condition in which one or more of your parathyroid glands become overactive and secrete too much parathyroid hormone (PTH). This causes the levels of calcium in your blood to rise, a condition known as hypercalcemia, which can cause a variety of health problems.
A long-term medical condition in which the blood pressure in the arteries is persistently elevated. Often called the "silent killer" because it frequently has no symptoms, it is a major risk factor for stroke, heart attack, heart failure, and kidney disease.
A condition in which your thyroid gland produces too much of the hormone thyroxine. Hyperthyroidism can accelerate your body's metabolism, causing unintentional weight loss and a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
A rare disorder in which your pituitary gland fails to produce one or more of its hormones, or doesn't produce enough of them. The pituitary gland is a small gland at the base of your brain that is a "master gland," controlling many other glands in the body.
A medical emergency that occurs when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature (below 95 F or 35 C). Hypothermia needs immediate medical attention.
A condition in which your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of certain crucial hormones. Hypothyroidism may not cause noticeable symptoms in the early stages, but over time, it can cause a number of health problems, such as obesity, joint pain, infertility, and heart disease.
A common and highly contagious skin infection that mainly affects infants and young children. It usually appears as reddish sores on the face, especially around the nose and mouth and on the hands and feet. The sores burst and develop honey-colored crusts.
Often called "the kissing disease," Mono is a contagious infection most commonly caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is characterized by extreme fatigue, fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes. The spleen may also become enlarged, requiring avoidance of contact sports.
An umbrella term used to describe disorders that involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract. Types of IBD include Ulcerative Colitis (inflammation and sores in the large intestine and rectum) and Crohn's Disease (can affect any part of the digestive tract).
A highly contagious viral respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to serious complications like pneumonia. Symptoms are typically more intense and have a more abrupt onset than the common cold.
A chronic, painful bladder condition. It's a feeling of pain and pressure in the bladder area. Along with this pain, you may have lower urinary tract symptoms that have lasted for 6 weeks or longer, without having an infection or other clear cause.
Refers to a large group of disorders that cause progressive scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissue. The scarring associated with ILD eventually affects your ability to breathe and get enough oxygen into your bloodstream.
A common functional gastrointestinal disorder that affects the large intestine. It involves problems with motility (how the bowel muscles contract) and sensitivity (how the brain interprets signals from the bowel). It does not cause damage to the bowel tissue.
A disease that starts in the kidneys. The most common type of kidney cancer in adults is renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The kidneys are two bean-shaped organs that filter waste from the blood and produce urine.
Hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can affect any part of your urinary tract. Passing kidney stones can be quite painful, though the stones usually cause no permanent damage if they're recognized in a timely fashion.
A severe form of pneumonia — lung inflammation usually caused by infection. It's caused by a bacterium known as Legionella. Most people catch Legionnaires' disease by inhaling the bacteria from water or soil.
A parasitic disease caused by a parasite Leishmania. This parasite is transmitted through the bites of infected female phlebotomine sandflies. The disease has several forms, with the most common being cutaneous (causing skin sores) and visceral (affecting internal organs).
A chronic infectious disease caused by the slow-growing bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, eyes, and testes. It is curable with multidrug therapy.
Cancer of the body's blood-forming tissues, including the bone marrow and the lymphatic system. Many types of leukemia exist. Some forms are more common in children, while others occur mostly in adults. It usually involves the white blood cells.
An inflammatory condition that can cause swelling and irritation on the skin, scalp, nails, and mucous membranes. On the skin, it usually appears as purplish, itchy, flat-topped bumps. In the mouth, it forms lacy white patches.
A serious infection usually caused by eating food contaminated with the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. The disease primarily affects pregnant women, newborns, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Cancer that begins in the cells of the liver. The most common type is hepatocellular carcinoma, which begins in the main type of liver cell (hepatocyte). Other types are less common. Liver cancer is more common in people with chronic liver diseases.
A malignant tumor that begins in the cells of the lungs. It is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. The two main types are small cell lung cancer (SCLC) and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), with NSCLC being far more common.
A chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and pain in any part of your body. It most commonly affects the skin, joints, and internal organs like the kidneys and heart. Lupus is known for its periods of illness (flares) and remission.
A bacterial infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected blacklegged ticks. If not treated promptly, the infection can spread to joints, the heart, and the nervous system, causing more severe and chronic symptoms.
Refers to tissue swelling caused by an accumulation of protein-rich fluid that's usually drained through the body's lymphatic system. It most commonly affects the arms or legs, but can also occur in the chest wall, abdomen, neck and genitals.
Cancer that begins in infection-fighting cells of the immune system, called lymphocytes. These cells are in the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, bone marrow, and other parts of the body. The two main types are Hodgkin's lymphoma and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL).
A type of staph bacteria that is resistant to many of the antibiotics used to treat ordinary staph infections. Most MRSA infections occur in people who've been in hospitals or other health care settings, but there's also a type that occurs in the wider community.
A common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, think, and act. It is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, leading to a variety of emotional and physical problems.
A life-threatening disease caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through the bites of infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. It is preventable and curable, but remains a significant public health problem in many tropical and subtropical regions.
A rare and aggressive cancer that occurs in the thin layer of tissue that covers the majority of your internal organs (mesothelium). The most common type affects the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma).
A condition that results from eating a diet in which one or more nutrients are either not enough or are too much such that the diet causes health problems. It may involve calories, protein, carbohydrates, vitamins or minerals.
An inherited disorder that affects connective tissue — the fibers that support and anchor your organs and other structures in your body. Marfan syndrome most commonly affects the heart, eyes, blood vessels, and skeleton.
A highly contagious viral illness that causes a characteristic skin rash and fever. It can lead to serious complications, especially in young children and adults, including pneumonia and encephalitis (brain inflammation). It is preventable by vaccine.
The most serious type of skin cancer that develops in the melanocytes, the cells that produce melanin. It is more dangerous because it is much more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught early.
A disorder of the inner ear that can lead to dizzy spells (vertigo) and hearing loss. In most cases, Meniere's disease affects only one ear. It can occur at any age, but it usually starts between young and middle-aged adulthood.
An inflammation of the membranes (meninges) surrounding the brain and spinal cord. While it can be caused by injury or drugs, the most common cause is infection by viruses or bacteria. Bacterial meningitis is a medical emergency and can be fatal if not treated promptly.
A primary headache disorder characterized by recurrent, moderate to severe headaches. These headaches are often pulsating, affect one side of the head, and can last for hours to days. They are frequently accompanied by other neurological symptoms.
A cancer that forms in a type of white blood cell called a plasma cell. Healthy plasma cells help fight infections by making antibodies. In multiple myeloma, cancerous plasma cells accumulate in the bone marrow and crowd out healthy blood cells. They produce abnormal proteins that can cause complications.
A potentially disabling disease of the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). In MS, the immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers, causing communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body.
A contagious viral disease best known for causing painful swelling of the salivary glands, particularly the parotid glands, located below and in front of the ears. It can lead to complications such as meningitis, orchitis (inflammation of the testicles), and hearing loss.
A group of genetic diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. In muscular dystrophy, abnormal genes (mutations) interfere with the production of proteins needed to form healthy muscle.
A complex, multi-system illness characterized by profound, disabling fatigue that is not improved by rest. A key feature is post-exertional malaise (PEM), where physical or mental exertion can make symptoms much worse.
A chronic autoimmune, neuromuscular disease that causes weakness in the skeletal muscles. This weakness worsens after periods of activity and improves after periods of rest. Certain muscles such as those that control eye and eyelid movement, facial expression, chewing, talking, and swallowing are often involved.
A group of diverse bone marrow disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells. In MDS, the blood-forming cells (stem cells) in the bone marrow become abnormal (dysplastic) and have problems making new blood cells, leading to low numbers of one or more types of blood cells.
A common vision condition in which you can see objects near to you clearly, but objects farther away are blurry. It occurs when the shape of your eye causes light rays to bend (refract) incorrectly, focusing images in front of your retina instead of on your retina.
A chronic neurological condition characterized by overwhelming daytime sleepiness and sudden attacks of sleep. People with narcolepsy often find it difficult to stay awake for long periods of time, regardless of the circumstances.
A group of three distinct genetic disorders (NF1, NF2, and schwannomatosis) that cause tumors to grow on nerves throughout the body. The tumors are usually benign (noncancerous) but can sometimes become malignant.
An umbrella term for a range of liver conditions affecting people who drink little to no alcohol. The main characteristic is too much fat stored in liver cells. A more serious form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), involves liver inflammation and can progress to cirrhosis and liver failure.
A very contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhea. People of all ages can get infected and sick with norovirus, which spreads easily. It is often called the "stomach flu," though it is not related to influenza.
A complex disease involving an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity isn't just a cosmetic concern; it is a medical problem that increases the risk of other diseases and health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
A disorder characterized by a pattern of unwanted, intrusive thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead to repetitive behaviors (compulsions). These obsessions and compulsions interfere with daily activities and cause significant distress.
A type of head and neck cancer, this refers to cancer that develops in any of the parts that make up the mouth (oral cavity). This can include the lips, gums, tongue, inner lining of the cheeks, roof of the mouth, and floor of the mouth.
The most common form of arthritis, affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. Although it can damage any joint, the disorder most commonly affects joints in your hands, knees, hips, and spine.
A bone disease that occurs when the body loses too much bone, makes too little bone, or both. As a result, bones become weak, brittle, and may break from a fall or, in serious cases, from minor bumps. It is often called a "silent disease" as there are no symptoms until a fracture occurs.
A type of cancer that begins in the ovaries. It often goes undetected until it has spread within the pelvis and abdomen. At this late stage, ovarian cancer is more difficult to treat and can be fatal.
A chronic disorder that can result in enlarged and misshapen bones. It's caused by the excessive breakdown and formation of bone, followed by disorganized bone remodeling. This can cause bone to weaken, resulting in bone pain, arthritis, deformities, and fractures.
Cancer that begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ that lies behind the lower part of the stomach. It is often detected late, spreads rapidly, and has a poor prognosis. There are two main types: exocrine tumors and endocrine tumors.
An anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks. Panic attacks are sudden periods of intense fear that may include palpitations, pounding heart, sweating, shaking, shortness of breath, numbness, or a feeling that something terrible is going to happen.
A progressive nervous system disorder that primarily affects dopamine-producing neurons in a specific area of the brain called the substantia nigra. This leads to a wide range of movement-related (motor) and non-movement-related symptoms.
A condition in which painful sores or ulcers develop on the lining of your stomach or the first part of your small intestine (the duodenum). A stomach ulcer is called a gastric ulcer, while one in the duodenum is called a duodenal ulcer.
A serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and, without treatment, can destroy the bone that supports your teeth. Periodontitis can cause teeth to loosen or lead to tooth loss. It is common but largely preventable and is usually the result of poor oral hygiene.
A common circulatory problem in which narrowed arteries reduce blood flow to the limbs. When you develop PAD, your extremities — usually your legs — don't receive enough blood flow to keep up with demand. This causes symptoms, most notably leg pain when walking (claudication).
A condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nerves, which are the nerves outside of the brain and spinal cord. It often causes weakness, numbness, and pain, usually in the hands and feet, but it can also affect other areas of the body.
A highly contagious respiratory tract infection. In its early stages, it appears to be nothing more than the common cold, but it can become very serious, especially for infants, causing uncontrollable, violent coughing fits that often make it hard to breathe.
A rare inherited disorder that causes an amino acid called phenylalanine to build up in the body. PKU is caused by a defect in the gene that helps create the enzyme needed to break down phenylalanine. Without this enzyme, a dangerous buildup can develop when a person with PKU eats foods that contain protein or eats aspartame.
A serious infectious disease caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis. It is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected fleas. It is famous for killing millions of people in Europe during the Middle Ages (the "Black Death").
One of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of a thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that runs across the bottom of each foot and connects the heel bone to the toes.
An infection that inflames the air sacs (alveoli) in one or both lungs. The air sacs may fill with fluid or pus, causing cough with phlegm, fever, chills, and difficulty breathing. It can be caused by a variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Injury or death due to swallowing, inhaling, touching or injecting various drugs, chemicals, venoms or gases. Many substances — such as drugs and carbon monoxide — are poisonous only in higher concentrations or dosages.
A disabling and life-threatening disease caused by the poliovirus. The virus spreads from person to person and can infect a person’s spinal cord, causing paralysis. Thanks to a successful global vaccination campaign, polio is now rare.
A common hormonal disorder among women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS may have infrequent or prolonged menstrual periods or excess male hormone (androgen) levels. The ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to regularly release eggs.
A type of slow-growing blood cancer in which the bone marrow makes too many red blood cells. This excess of cells thickens the blood, slowing its flow, which can cause serious problems, such as blood clots.
An inflammatory disorder that causes muscle pain and stiffness, especially in the shoulders and hips. Signs and symptoms of PMR usually begin quickly and are worse in the morning. It mostly affects people over age 65.
A disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event. It is characterized by intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to their experience that last long after the traumatic event has ended.
A condition that affects blood flow. POTS is a form of orthostatic intolerance, the development of symptoms that come on when standing up from a reclining position, and that may be relieved by sitting or lying back down. The primary symptom is a significant increase in heart rate upon standing.
A condition in which a child's body begins changing into that of an adult (puberty) too soon. Puberty that begins before age 8 in girls and before age 9 in boys is considered precocious.
The gradual loss of your eyes' ability to focus on nearby objects. It's a natural, often annoying part of aging. Presbyopia usually becomes noticeable in your early to mid-40s and continues to worsen until around age 65.
A long-term liver disease in which the bile ducts in the liver are slowly destroyed. When the bile ducts are damaged, bile can back up in the liver and cause inflammation and scarring (cirrhosis) over time.
Cancer that occurs in the prostate — a small walnut-shaped gland in males that produces the seminal fluid. It is one of the most common types of cancer. Most prostate cancers grow slowly and are confined to the prostate gland, where they may not cause serious harm.
A chronic autoimmune condition that causes the rapid buildup of skin cells. This buildup of cells causes scaling on the skin’s surface. Inflammation and redness around the scales are common. Psoriatic scales are typically whitish-silver and develop in thick, red patches.
A form of arthritis that affects some people who have the skin condition psoriasis. It is a type of inflammatory arthritis. Typically, it causes joints to become swollen, stiff and painful. Like psoriasis, it is a long-term condition that can get progressively worse.
A type of high blood pressure that affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart. In one form of pulmonary hypertension, tiny arteries in the lungs, called pulmonary arterioles, and capillaries become narrowed, blocked or destroyed, making it harder for blood to flow through the lungs.
A deadly virus spread to people from the saliva of infected animals, usually through a bite. Rabies is almost always fatal once clinical symptoms appear. However, it is preventable if medical care is received promptly after exposure.
A condition where some areas of the body, usually fingers and toes, feel numb and cold in response to cold temperatures or stress. In Raynaud's, smaller arteries that supply blood to the skin narrow, limiting blood circulation to affected areas (vasospasm).
A general term used to describe the pain felt in muscles, nerves, and tendons caused by repetitive movement and overuse. The condition mostly affects parts of the upper body, such as the forearms, elbows, wrists, hands, neck, and shoulders.
A common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. While most people recover in a week or two, RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults, potentially leading to bronchiolitis (inflammation of the small airways in the lung) and pneumonia.
A condition that causes an uncontrollable urge to move the legs, usually because of an uncomfortable sensation. It typically happens in the evening or nighttime hours when sitting or lying down. Moving eases the unpleasant feeling temporarily.
A chronic inflammatory disorder where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, primarily the lining of the joints (synovium). This leads to painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.
A common fungal infection of the skin. Despite its name, it is not caused by a worm. The infection often forms a ring-shaped, reddish rash that can be itchy.
A common, chronic inflammatory skin condition that causes blushing or flushing and visible blood vessels in the face. It may also produce small, red, pus-filled bumps. It can flare up for weeks to months and then diminish for a while.
A contagious virus that can cause gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines). It is the leading cause of severe, dehydrating diarrhea in infants and young children worldwide.
A contagious viral infection best known by its distinctive red rash. It is generally a mild illness in children and adults. However, it is extremely dangerous for a developing baby if a pregnant woman becomes infected, leading to Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS).
A common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. Humans become infected most frequently through contaminated water or food.
A chronic disease characterized by the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells (granulomas) in any part of your body — most commonly the lungs and lymph nodes. The cause of sarcoidosis is unknown, but experts think it results from the body's immune system responding to an unknown substance.
An itchy skin condition caused by a tiny burrowing mite called Sarcoptes scabiei. The intense itching occurs in the area where the mite burrows and is typically worse at night.
A bacterial illness that develops in some people who have strep throat. It features a bright red rash that covers most of the body. Scarlet fever is almost always accompanied by a sore throat and a high fever.
A serious mental disorder in which people interpret reality abnormally. Schizophrenia may result in some combination of hallucinations, delusions, and extremely disordered thinking and behavior that impairs daily functioning, and can be disabling.
Refers to pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, which branches from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg. Typically, sciatica affects only one side of your body. It is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, not a diagnosis in itself.
A group of rare, chronic autoimmune diseases that involve the hardening and tightening of the skin and connective tissues. In some people, scleroderma affects only the skin (localized). But in many people, it also harms internal organs, such as the lungs, heart, and kidneys (systemic).
A sideways curvature of the spine that most often occurs during the growth spurt just before puberty. While scoliosis can be caused by conditions such as cerebral palsy and muscular dystrophy, the cause of most childhood scoliosis is unknown (idiopathic).
A condition in which the brain has trouble receiving and responding to information that comes in through the senses. Some people with SPD are oversensitive to things in their environment. Others are under-sensitive. It is not currently recognized as a standalone medical diagnosis.
A viral infection that causes a painful rash, usually as a single stripe of blisters on one side of the torso. It is caused by the reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox, which lies dormant in nerve tissue for years.
An inherited red blood cell disorder in which red blood cells become misshapen (sickle-shaped) and break down. The abnormal cells can block blood flow, leading to episodes of severe pain (pain crises), anemia, and organ damage.
An autoimmune disorder identified by its two most common symptoms — dry eyes and a dry mouth. The condition often accompanies other immune system disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. The immune system primarily attacks the glands that make tears and saliva.
A potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. If left untreated, it can lead to high blood pressure, heart problems, and other complications. There are two main types: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Central Sleep Apnea (CSA).
A type of anxiety disorder that causes extreme fear in social settings. People with this disorder have trouble talking to people, meeting new people, and attending social gatherings. They fear being judged or scrutinized by others.
A rare type of cancer that begins in the soft tissues of the body (muscle, fat, blood vessels, nerves, tendons, and the lining of joints). There are more than 50 subtypes of soft tissue sarcoma.
Common injuries that share similar signs and symptoms, but involve different parts of your body. A sprain is a stretching or tearing of ligaments — the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect two bones at a joint. A strain is a stretching or tearing of muscle or tendon.
A growth of cancerous cells within the lining of the stomach. This type of cancer is often advanced when it is diagnosed because early-stage stomach cancer rarely causes symptoms.
A bacterial infection in the throat and tonsils caused by Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as group A streptococcus. It is highly contagious and most common in children, characterized by a sudden and severe sore throat.
A medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients, causing brain cells to die. Ischemic strokes are from blockages, and hemorrhagic strokes are from bleeding.
Inflamed, painful skin that feels hot to the touch. It often appears within a few hours of too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from sunshine or artificial sources, such as sunlamps. Repeated sunburn increases your risk for other skin damage and certain diseases, including skin cancer.
A bacterial infection usually spread by sexual contact. The disease starts as a painless sore — typically on the genitals, rectum or mouth. Without treatment, syphilis can severely damage the heart, brain or other organs, and can be life-threatening.
A rare, inherited disorder that progressively destroys nerve cells (neurons) in the brain and spinal cord. The most common form becomes apparent in infancy, where a child's development slows and muscles used for movement weaken, leading to seizures, vision and hearing loss, intellectual disability, and paralysis.
A type of temporomandibular disorder that can cause pain in your jaw joint and in the muscles that control jaw movement. The exact cause of a person's TMJ disorder is often difficult to determine.
Inflammation or irritation of a tendon, the thick fibrous cords that attach muscle to bone. The condition causes pain and tenderness just outside a joint. While tendinitis can occur in any of your tendons, it's most common around your shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels.
Cancer that develops in the testicles, a part of the male reproductive system. Compared with other types of cancer, testicular cancer is rare. But it is the most common cancer in American males between the ages of 15 and 35. It is highly treatable, even when cancer has spread.
A serious bacterial infection that causes painful muscle spasms and can lead to death. It affects the nervous system, leading to muscle stiffness, typically starting with the jaw muscles (lockjaw). It is not spread from person to person.
An inherited blood disorder that causes your body to have less hemoglobin than normal. Hemoglobin enables red blood cells to carry oxygen. Thalassemia can cause anemia, leaving you fatigued. The severity depends on the type and number of gene mutations.
Cancer that occurs in the cells of the thyroid, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck. Most cases of thyroid cancer can be cured with treatment, as they are often detected early and grow slowly.
The perception of noise or ringing in the ears. A common problem, tinnitus affects about 15% to 20% of people. It isn't a condition itself — it's a symptom of an underlying condition, such as age-related hearing loss, ear injury, or a circulatory system disorder.
A neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by multiple movement (motor) tics and at least one vocal (phonic) tic. These tics are sudden, brief, intermittent movements or sounds. They typically appear in childhood and can vary in type, frequency, and severity over time.
A disease that results from infection with the Toxoplasma gondii parasite, one of the world's most common parasites. Infection usually occurs by eating undercooked contaminated meat, exposure from infected cat feces, or mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy.
A very common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by infection with a protozoan parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. Although symptoms of the disease vary, most people who have the parasite cannot tell they are infected.
A chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries sensation from the face to the brain. It causes extreme, sporadic, sudden burning or shock-like face pain that lasts anywhere from a few seconds to as long as two minutes per episode.
A serious and potentially fatal bacterial disease that mainly affects the lungs but can affect other parts of the body. Many people who are infected with TB bacteria have a latent form and do not get sick, but they can develop active TB disease later in life.
A chronic condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone needed to allow sugar (glucose) to enter cells to produce energy. It is an autoimmune disease where the body's immune system destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
A life-threatening illness caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. It is usually spread through contaminated food or water. It is rare in industrialized countries but remains a serious health threat in the developing world.
Gnarled, enlarged veins, most commonly appearing in the legs and feet. This occurs when faulty valves in the veins allow blood to flow in the wrong direction or to pool. For many people, they are simply a cosmetic concern, but for others, they can cause aching pain and discomfort.
A long-term condition where pale white patches develop on the skin. It's caused by the lack of melanin, which is the pigment in skin. Vitiligo can affect any area of skin, but it commonly happens on the face, neck, and hands, and in skin creases.
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