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| A: Conditions & Diseases | | ||||
| | | Please click on a topic below to learn more. If you do not find the topic you are looking for in our Disease & Condition listing, try our convenient keyword search. A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z Achilles’ Tendon Rupture If over-stretched, the tendon can rupture. Ruptures can occur anywhere along the tendon but are most common at the heel, where the tendon also will be sensitive to the touch. The degree to which you can use your foot and the degree of pain relate to whether the tendon is partially or completely ruptured. Similar conditions include Achilles’ tendonitis or bursitis, which may result from inflammation that occurs when the tendon is overworked. However, unlike tendonitis and bursitis, which often improve with rest and the use of anti-inflammatory medications, a rupture usually requires surgical repair. Please note that this material is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or instruction. Consult your healthcare professional for advice relating to a medical problem or condition. (return to top) Acid Reflux Acid reflux typically occurs after you have eaten a large meal, settle into your favorite chair and begin to feel a burning sensation in your chest. Most people know it as heartburn. Sufferers may also experience a sour taste in their mouths or the sensation of food reentering their mouths. This occurs from gastroesophageal reflux, a condition in which food or liquid travels from the stomach back up into the esophagus. The partially digested food contains stomach acid and can irritate the esophagus, cause heartburn and other symptoms. Normally, the lower esophageal sphincter prevents this from occurring. This circular band of muscle at the end of the esophagus doesn’t open until you swallow. However, if it relaxes abnormally or weakens, acid reflux may occur. Symptoms include:
Barrett’s esophagus is an irritation of the lining in the esophagus that is caused by gastric secretions. It occurs most frequently among those who suffer from acid reflux and increases the likelihood of developing cancer of the esophagus. Most people manage acid reflux with lifestyle modifications, such as improved diet, antacids and weight loss. If severe, prescription medications are available to reduce symptoms. With Barrett’s esophagus, surgically removing a portion of the esophagus may be needed if a biopsy shows cellular changes that could lead to cancer. Please note that this material is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or instruction. Consult your healthcare professional for advice relating to a medical problem or condition. (return to top) Acne More than four in five people between the ages of 12 and 24 have some form of acne at least once. The disorder is typically associated with teenagers, but it can affect people of all ages. Acne occurs when pores, or tiny holes on the surface of the skin, become clogged. Normally, the oil glands help keep skin lubricated and remove old skin cells. Pores may become clogged when the glands produce too much oil and attract dirt, debris and bacteria. The blockage is called a comedone. Acne commonly occurs on the face and shoulders but also may develop on the trunk, arms, legs and buttocks. Acne outbreaks may be triggered by:
A number of over-the-counter medications are available that may help reduce acne. If over-the-counter medications do not correct the condition, you should see a physician. Please note that this material is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or instruction. Consult your healthcare professional for advice relating to a medical problem or condition. (return to top) Acromegaly Acromegaly is an uncommon disorder that occurs in about 6 out of every 100,000 adults. Acromegaly, a chronic disorder, occurs when the pituitary gland produces excess growth hormone. (Excessive growth hormone in children causes gigantism rather than acromegaly.) It results in the gradual growth of hands, feet and face. Because the disorder is uncommon and the growth occurs gradually, it is sometimes not diagnosed immediately. However, if not diagnosed promptly, acromegaly can become serious and even life threatening. The increased production of growth hormone usually begins with a benign tumor of the pituitary gland. It is most commonly diagnosed in people in their 20s and 30s, and typically several years after the first signs appear. Other symptoms include:
Laboratory tests that measure excessive growth hormone levels in the blood are used to diagnose acromegaly. An MRI also may be ordered so the physician can determine if there is a tumor in the pituitary gland. Treatment includes removal of all or part of any tumors in the pituitary gland. The surgery quickly improves symptoms relating to this disorder, but some patients may still require regular medication for the rest of their lives to control growth hormone levels. Please note that this material is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or instruction. Consult your healthcare professional for advice relating to a medical problem or condition. (return to top) Acute Cystitis Overactive bladder is a condition caused by inflammation and irritation of the lower urinary tract that results in pain and frequent urination. Causes may include nerve damage caused by abdominal trauma, bladder stones, drug side effects and neurological disease. Irritable bladder may occur at any age, and the US Department of Health and Human Services has reported that approximately 13 million people in the US suffer from irritable bladder and other forms of incontinence. Urination involves urinary tract processes, the nervous system and the brain. When the bladder is about half full, the brain receives the message and suppresses the need until urination is initiated. The nervous system signals the bladder to empty. Once the bladder has been emptied pressure decreases, the bladder resumes its normal shape and the process begins again. Those with irritable bladder receive messages that they need to urinate immediately – often at inconvenient times. And, they may not be able to refrain from urinating until an appropriate time, which is embarrassing and interferes with work, daily routines and intimacy. Symptoms of irritable bladder include:
Diagnosis of irritable bladder usually requires a physical exam as well as other tests such as a urinalysis, a urinary stress test and an abdominal ultrasound. What triggers episodes of irritable bladder may vary from person to person, so it is important to pay attention to what may trigger this condition and learn to avoid those things. Basic treatment of irritable bladder begins with the consumption of large amounts of water to flush irritants out of the bladder. Your physician may also suggest periodically adding a bit of baking soda to the water being consumed. This may help sooth the irritated bladder. Warm baths, the use of heating pads and relaxation techniques may also help. Other dietary changes may include the avoidance of acidic foods such as coffee, tomatoes, citrus fruits and juices, etc. Please note that this material is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or instruction. Consult your healthcare professional for advice relating to a medical problem or condition. (return to top) Acute Necrotizing Ulcerative Gingivitis (ANUG) Acute necrotizing ulcerative gingivitis (ANUG) is a painful infection of the mouth and throat caused by infection from the gums. It can develop very quickly if the immune system is weakened. Other factors that may contribute to the development of ANUG, which is commonly called trench mouth, include poor oral hygiene, smoking, poor nutrition and stress. ANUG is called trench mouth because many soldiers developed it during World War I. Symptoms include:
Diagnosis of ANUG is based on evaluation of symptoms during a physical exam and possibly dental X-rays. Treatment may include an antibiotic for the bacterial infection and the removal of dead tissue. Rinsing with a half teaspoon of salt dissolved in 8 ounces of water may also relieve pain and speed the recovery process. A good oral hygiene plan and nutritious diet may also be recommended. Please note that this material is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or instruction. Consult your healthcare professional for advice relating to a medical problem or condition. (return to top) Acute Sinusitis Sinusitis is an infection of the sinus cavities. The sinus cavities are air-filled areas around the forehead, cheeks and eyes that are lined with mucous membranes. When healthy, sinus cavities are open and allow mucus to drain and air to circulate. They can become inflamed from viral colds and allergies. When this happens, they can get blocked, leading to bacterial infections. Symptoms include:
Most cases of acute sinusitis may be effectively treated at home with over-the-counter decongestants. You should see your doctor if you have fever or chills or tooth pain along with some of thing available to meet the body’s demands. Atrial fibrillation affects both men and women, primarily those 60 years of age or older. Symptoms, which may begin or stop suddenly, include:
Treatment options vary depending on the cause of the atrial fibrillation. Prescription medications can slow the heartbeat and reduce blood clots. Other patients may require surgery. Call your physician if symptoms indicate that atrial fibrillation may be present. Please note that this material is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or instruction. Consult your healthcare professional for advice relating to a medical problem or condition. (return to top) Autism Autism is a developmental disability that usually appears in the first three years of life. The parts of the brain that control social interaction and communication do not develop properly due to a neurological disorder. Those with autism typically have difficulty communicating and relating to others. According to the Autism Society of America, autism is the most common of five disorders called pervasive developmental disorders. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that as many as 1.5 million Americans have some form of autism. It is four times more prevalent among males than females. Children with autism may make eye contact, show affection and demonstrate a variety of emotions. They can learn and function productively with appropriate education and treatment. Symptoms range from mild to severe. Some may need help with most aspects of their daily lives, and others are even able to attend school in a regular classroom. People with autism may exhibit any of the following traits:
A clinician who is experienced in the diagnosis of autism and pervasive developmental disorders will use a set of strict, carefully planned guidelines for diagnosis. Please note that this material is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or instruction. Consult your healthcare professional for advice relating to a medical problem or condition. (return to top)
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