What’s acute glaucoma?

Glaucoma damages the optic nerve and can cause blindness. Acute glaucoma is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and can cause sudden eye pain, swelling, redness, and reduced vision. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and laser treatment. Regular eye exams are important for early diagnosis and treatment. Prevention of glaucoma is unlikely. The disorder […]

What’s acute bipolar disorder?

Acute bipolar disorder causes extreme manic or depressive behavior, with symptoms including loss of energy, trouble sleeping, and racing thoughts. Medications such as mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants can help manage symptoms, but hospitalization may be necessary in extreme cases. The disorder has no cure, but proper treatment and counseling can help individuals manage their […]

Causes of acute respiratory failure?

Acute respiratory failure can be caused by various factors that affect gas exchange in the lungs, resulting in high levels of carbon dioxide or low levels of oxygen in the blood. Causes are classified as hypoxemic or hypercapnic, with lung diseases and injuries being common culprits. Acute respiratory failure can be caused by anything that […]

What’s an acute stroke?

An acute stroke is a serious medical emergency that requires immediate attention. It can be caused by arterial blockage or hemorrhage and is often associated with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Symptoms include impaired motor skills, coordination, and cognition, as well as unilateral weakness or paralysis. Treatment depends on the cause […]

What’s acute cholecystitis?

Acute cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder without gallstones. It is usually diagnosed in individuals with existing chronic conditions. Symptoms include right-sided abdominal pain, fever, vomiting, and nausea. Treatment depends on symptom severity and may include antibiotics, pain relievers, or surgical removal of the gallbladder. Acute cholecystitis is a form of gallbladder inflammation that occurs […]

Causes of acute elbow pain?

Acute elbow pain is caused by injury or overuse, such as tendonitis or tennis elbow. Athletes and those who strain their wrists or elbows are at risk. Treatment involves rest, anti-inflammatory medication, and exercises to strengthen and heal the elbow. Acute elbow pain can result from a number of causes affecting the joints or surrounding […]

What’s acute tonsillitis?

Acute tonsillitis is inflammation or swelling of the tonsils, often caused by viral infections. Symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and bad breath. Diagnosis is done through a throat swab or blood test, and antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections. Surgery may be necessary for severe or chronic cases. Acute tonsillitis is a sudden […]

What’s acute enteritis?

Acute enteritis is inflammation of the small intestine caused by various factors including contaminated food, autoimmune disorders, and certain medications. Symptoms include abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and diarrhea. Treatment depends on severity and may include replacement of fluids and medications. Severe cases may require hospitalization. Acute enteritis is a medical term used to describe […]

Chronic vs. acute medical conditions: what’s the difference?

Acute medical conditions are sudden and short-lived, while chronic conditions last a long time and develop slowly. Some diseases can start as acute and become chronic, and chronic conditions can be caused by an initial acute injury. Good medical intervention can prevent acute conditions from becoming chronic. There is some misunderstanding when doctors or laypeople […]

Symptoms of acute kidney failure?

Acute kidney failure often has no symptoms, but physical signs include decreased urine output, swelling, thirst, rapid heartbeat, pain in the side, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting. Flank pain is a sign of kidney problems, and confusion and fatigue can also occur. Seek medical attention early to reverse the condition. Rapid deterioration of kidney function is […]

What’s acute gastritis?

Acute gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining causing severe pain and burning in the upper abdomen. It can be caused by medication, lifestyle factors, or aging. Diagnosis involves various tests, and treatment includes antacids and prescription drugs. Acute gastritis is a medical condition that occurs when the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed and […]

What’s Acute Intermittent Porphyria?

Acute intermittent porphyria is a genetic disease that causes excessive production and secretion of porphyrins, leading to neurological and digestive problems. Environmental factors can trigger acute attacks, but medication and avoiding triggers can reduce symptoms. Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, nausea, headache, fever, confusion, severe muscle pain, numbness, tingling, and, rarely, seizures or […]

What’s acute glomerulonephritis?

Acute glomerulonephritis causes sudden inflammation of the kidney’s glomeruli, leading to symptoms such as decreased urine output, blood in the urine, and swelling. It can be caused by various medical conditions and can lead to kidney failure if left untreated. Treatment includes prescription drugs and hospitalization for severe cases. Follow-up appointments are important for monitoring […]

What’s acute liver failure?

Acute liver failure is a medical emergency with symptoms developing rapidly. Adverse drug reactions and overdoses are common causes. Treatment involves determining the cause, supportive care, and transplantation in extreme cases. Patients should heed early warning signs of problematic side effects. Acute liver failure is the rapid onset of liver failure in a patient, with […]

What’s Acute Inflammation?

Acute inflammation is a short-term response to injury, characterized by swelling, redness, and pain. It is the body’s natural defense mechanism and usually lasts only a few hours or days. Ice, elevation, and compression can help reduce symptoms. Chronic inflammation lasts longer and can occur repeatedly over time. Acute inflammation, also known as short-term inflammation, […]

What’s acute peritonitis?

Acute peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneal membrane caused by bacterial infection, often as a complication of liver failure. Symptoms include abdominal tenderness, distention, and nausea. Treatment involves antibiotics, hospitalization, and surgery in severe cases. Untreated peritonitis can lead to life-threatening conditions. Acute peritonitis is sudden inflammation of the peritoneal membrane that lines the abdominal […]

What’s Acute Radiation Syndrome?

Acute radiation syndrome (ARS) is caused by short-term exposure to high doses of radiation, with symptoms including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Recovery depends on the nature and dosage of radiation, and prevention involves avoiding high-dose sources. Treatment focuses on supportive care, and those who recover may experience long-term health complications. First responders are at increased […]

What’s acute kidney failure?

Acute kidney failure can be caused by defects in the kidneys, insufficient blood flow, or problems expelling waste products. Symptoms include fatigue, swelling, and inability to urinate, and can lead to seizures, coma, or death if not treated immediately. Dialysis and treatment for underlying problems are necessary to restore kidney function. Acute kidney failure is […]

What’s acute AFib?

Acute atrial fibrillation is a sudden, irregular heartbeat that can last for hours or days and can cause shortness of breath, confusion, and loss of consciousness. Causes include blood clots, medication, and heart attack complications. Treatment includes oxygen therapy, medication, and defibrillation. Patients may need daily medication and lifestyle changes to prevent future complications. Acute […]

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