Gum disease, also known as gingivitis or periodontitis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene or chronic diseases like diabetes. Symptoms range from bleeding gums to tooth loss and bad breath. Prevention includes proper oral care and regular dental visits. Advanced cases may require surgery or tissue and bone grafts. Even denture wearers should take […]
Research suggests a link between dental health and heart disease, with those suffering from gum disease, dentures, or bad teeth more likely to have heart disease. Studies also show a high risk of gum disease in patients needing heart transplants. Tooth loss can lead to an imbalanced diet, increasing the risk of heart disease. People […]
Keshan disease is caused by a selenium deficiency and mainly affects young women and children. It can lead to heart failure and is prevalent in areas with low soil selenium content. Symptoms include an enlarged heart, chest pain, and nausea. Selenium supplementation can reverse the disease. Keshan disease (KD) is a life-threatening condition that affects […]
The intestines consist of the small and large intestine and can be affected by various disorders and diseases. Celiac disease is a genetic disease that damages the small intestine when gluten is ingested. Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer and can be detected through screening. Crohn’s disease can cause inflammation in the digestive […]
Addison’s disease is caused by a damaged adrenal cortex, leading to a deficiency of hormones. Symptoms include lethargy, skin discoloration, and low blood pressure. Diagnosis is based on hormone and steroid levels in the blood, and treatment involves hormone replacement therapy. Addison’s disease is a condition related to the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands, which […]
Deficiency diseases are caused by a lack of specific nutrients in a person’s diet, often due to malnutrition. Each disease is caused by a different nutrient deficiency, and can lead to serious health problems. Adding missing nutrients to the diet can often cure the disease, but damage may not be reversible. Examples of deficiency diseases […]
Enteric diseases are caused by viruses and bacteria that enter the body through contaminated food or liquids, and can lead to stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and even death. Young children, the elderly, and travelers to foreign countries are most at risk. Vaccines and antibacterial cleaners can help prevent infection, but enteric pathogens are becoming […]
Breast disease is not limited to women and can include a variety of ailments, including benign changes like fibrocystic breast disease and malignant forms like breast cancer and Paget’s disease. Breast self-exams and consulting a doctor for abnormalities are important. A number of diseases can involve the breasts. When people think of breast disease, they […]
Lung diseases can range from benign to fatal and are classified into three categories: obstructive, restrictive, and defects in air sac tissues. Smoking is a main cause of obstructive diseases. The lungs are an important part of the human body and are responsible for supplying oxygen to the bloodstream while removing carbon dioxide. Lung diseases […]
Berger’s disease is a kidney disease caused by the protein IgA invading the kidneys, reducing their ability to remove waste products from the blood. It can be hereditary and is often associated with other health disorders. Symptoms can include bloody urine and swelling, and a kidney biopsy is required for diagnosis. There is no cure, […]
Black lung disease, caused by inhaling coal dust, can lead to progressive massive fibrosis (PMF) and is responsible for the deaths of thousands of coal workers annually. While there is no cure for PMF, early diagnosis and prevention can help halt the disease’s progression. Safer mining practices have reduced the risk of exposure to coal […]
Airborne diseases can spread through respiratory droplets or dust particles, and can be prevented through vaccines and avoiding contact with infected individuals. Common examples include influenza and chickenpox, while more serious diseases like meningitis and tuberculosis can be prevented with vaccines. Treatment varies depending on the disease, but often involves medication and rest. Isolation, masks, […]
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) cannot be passed between individuals and include injuries and congenital anomalies. Incidence of NCDs is equal to that of communicable diseases worldwide. Developing countries are more susceptible to contagious diseases due to lack of measures, while developed countries have higher rates of NCDs due to longer lifespans and lifestyle choices. NCDs can […]
Cushing’s disease is a rare condition caused by excess cortisol in the body, leading to symptoms such as weight gain, high blood pressure, and decreased bone mass. It is diagnosed through urine testing and imaging, and treated with surgery and radiation. Cushing’s disease is a rare condition, affecting about 10 in a million people, caused […]
Congestive heart disease is often confused with congestive heart failure (CHF), which can be caused by a variety of factors such as high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, and infections. Symptoms include fatigue, swelling, shortness of breath, and irregular heartbeat. Diagnosis involves various tests, and treatment may include medication, surgery, or even a heart transplant. […]
Infectious diseases are caused by pathogens entering the body and can be contagious or spread indirectly. They are caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and prions. Epidemiologists study and prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Basic hygiene and medical treatments are used to prevent and treat infectious diseases. Respiratory infections, HIV/AIDS, diarrheal disease, tuberculosis, and […]
Cardiopulmonary disease affects both the heart and lungs and can be fatal if left untreated. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, and wheezing. Treatment may involve a team of physicians and can include medications, surgery, and lifestyle changes. Cardiopulmonary disease is a disease that affects both the heart and the lungs. It can be […]
Infectious mononucleosis, or “kissing disease,” is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus and is often transmitted through saliva or close personal contact. It is most common in young adults and can cause fatigue, fever, and swollen lymph nodes. While most cases clear up on their own, those with compromised immune systems may require more aggressive medical […]
Collagen disease refers to disorders involving collagen, a protein found in connective tissue. It can be genetic or acquired through infections, injuries, or medications. Diagnosis involves biopsies and medical history. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and monitoring for complications. Collagen disease is a term that refers to disorders involving collagen, a type of protein found […]
Huntington’s disease is a hereditary disease that causes brain cells to deteriorate, affecting both the brain and body. Symptoms usually appear around age 30-50 and include uncontrollable movements, disorientation, and dementia. There is no cure, but medication can help manage symptoms. Huntington’s disease is an inherited disease that causes brain cells to deteriorate. The disease […]
