Medical conditions library

Kyphosis is an excessive forward curvature of the upper spine that makes the back rounded or hunched. Its causes are poor posture in adolescents, osteoporosis in older adults, or a congenital deformity. It is managed with exercise and physiotherapy, and may need a brace or surgery in severe cases.

Scoliosis is an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine in an S or C shape, often appearing during the growth period before puberty. Most cases are mild and monitored, moderate ones may need a brace, and severe ones surgery. Early detection is important to track progression and prevent worsening.

Cervical spondylosis is age-related degenerative changes in the neck vertebrae, discs, and joints, very common with aging. Much of it is symptomless, and it may cause neck pain and stiffness, and sometimes pressure on the nerves causing numbness or weakness in the arm. Most of it is managed with physical therapy, exercises, and medications, and it rarely needs surgery.

Coccydynia is pain around the tailbone, often worse when sitting or standing up. Many cases improve with conservative care after assessment of the cause.

Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which a vertebra of the spine slips forward over the one below it, often in the lower back. Its causes are degenerative with age, congenital, or stress-related in athletes. Much of it is symptomless, and it may cause back pain, stiffness, and sometimes pain radiating to the leg. Most of it is managed with physical therapy and exercises, and it rarely needs surgery.

Spinal stenosis is a narrowing of the canal that contains the spinal cord and nerves in the spine, often due to age-related changes, pressing on the nerves. It most often affects the neck and lower back. Its symptoms are pain, numbness, and weakness in the limbs that increase with walking or standing and ease with bending or sitting. It is managed with physical therapy and medications, and sometimes surgery.

Back or limb pain may persist or recur after spinal surgery for several reasons. Reassessment and individualized care are needed; pain alone does not prove that surgery failed.

Chronic neck pain persists or recurs for more than three months and may involve muscles, joints or nerves. Management depends on assessment and its effect on daily life.

Cauda equina syndrome is a surgical emergency caused by compression of the lumbar nerve roots, causing lower limb weakness, saddle anesthesia, and loss of bladder and bowel control requiring urgent surgical decompression.

Sciatica is pain radiating along the sciatic nerve from lower back to the foot, usually caused by nerve root compression. Over 90% of cases improve with conservative treatment including rest, physical therapy, and pain relief medications.

A herniated disc occurs when the soft inner core of an intervertebral disc pushes through the outer layer, compressing nearby nerves and causing severe pain, numbness, and weakness. Treatment begins with conservative care, progressing to injections or surgery if necessary.

Clubfoot is a common congenital deformity in which the newborn's foot is abnormally twisted inward and downward. It is not painful for the infant but needs early treatment, and the most effective method is the Ponseti method (sequential casts) that gradually corrects the foot with high success without major surgery.

Developmental dysplasia of the hip in infants is a condition in which the head of the femur does not properly settle in the hip socket from birth, so the joint is unstable or dislocated. Early detection by examination and ultrasound is very important, and early treatment with a special harness is highly effective and avoids permanent problems.

Perthes disease is a childhood condition in which blood supply to the head of the femur in the hip joint is temporarily disrupted, so part of the bone dies then is slowly rebuilt. It causes limping and pain in the hip or knee in children. Treatment preserves the joint shape during recovery, and early detection is important.

Slipped capital femoral epiphysis is a hip condition in adolescence in which the head of the femur slips off its position at the growth plate. It causes hip, thigh, or knee pain and limping. It usually needs urgent surgical intervention to stabilize the joint and prevent permanent complications.

Hallux valgus (bunion) is a deformity of the big-toe joint in which the toe leans toward the other toes and the joint protrudes sideways forming a painful bony bump. It worsens with tight shoes. It is managed with comfortable footwear and padding, and may need surgery in severe painful cases.

Morton's neuroma is a thickening and fibrosis around a nerve between the toes (often the third and fourth), causing burning pain, numbness, and a sensation of a pebble under the ball of the foot. Tight shoes and high heels contribute. It is managed with comfortable footwear, padding, and injections, with surgery in resistant cases.

Subacromial shoulder pain, often called impingement, commonly involves rotator cuff tendons or the bursa and worsens with arm elevation. Rehabilitation and load adjustment often help.

Frozen shoulder is a condition in which the shoulder joint gradually becomes painful and stiff with severe movement limitation, due to fibrosis and contraction of the capsule surrounding the joint. It goes through three stages (freezing, frozen, then thawing), and most of it improves over months to years with physical therapy and exercises, rarely needing intervention.

Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain, resulting from irritation of the thick ligament running under the foot. Its characteristic sign is sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning that eases with movement. Most of it improves with exercises, stretching, supportive shoes, and relative rest, and it rarely needs advanced interventions.

Rotator cuff tendinopathy (shoulder pain) is irritation or damage to the tendons of the muscles that move and stabilize the shoulder, among the most common causes of shoulder pain. It results from repeated strain, overhead movements, or aging. Its symptoms are shoulder pain that increases with lifting, arm weakness, and night pain. Most of it improves with relative rest and physical therapy, and it sometimes needs intervention.

A bone fracture is a break or crack in a bone due to injury, excess pressure, or bone weakness. Its symptoms are severe pain, swelling, deformity, and difficulty moving. Fractures range from simple hairline to open or multiple. They need fixation (a splint, cast, or surgery) to heal in their correct position, and proper first aid is important before reaching the hospital.

Osteonecrosis, or avascular necrosis, is bone damage caused by disrupted blood supply. It may affect the femoral head or other bones. Diagnosis before joint-surface collapse allows discussion of joint-preserving options.

Low back pain is among the most common medical complaints, affecting most people at some point in life. Most of it is benign mechanical pain that improves within weeks with movement and simple treatment. But some warning signs require urgent evaluation. Early movement and prevention are the basis of recovery and preventing recurrence.

Osteoarthritis is progressive wear of joint cartilage causing pain and stiffness, especially in the knee and hip. Treatment includes weight loss, physical therapy, hyaluronic acid injections, and joint replacement in advanced cases.

Charcot foot is inflammatory bone and joint damage in people with neuropathy, often related to diabetes. A newly hot, swollen foot requires urgent assessment even when pain is mild.

Diabetic foot is a serious complication of diabetes resulting from nerve damage and poor circulation, so foot sensation decreases and wounds heal slowly, making it prone to ulcers, infection, and possibly amputation. Prevention through daily care, sugar control, and early detection protects the foot from complications.

Hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state is a dangerous crisis involving severe hyperglycemia, dehydration and concentrated blood. Hospital treatment is required; extra insulin at home alone is not adequate care.

Diabetic ketoacidosis is a serious, emergency complication of diabetes that occurs with severe insulin deficiency, so the body burns fat and produces acidic ketones that build up in the blood. Its symptoms are thirst, heavy urination, nausea, rapid breathing, and a distinctive breath odor. It is a life-threatening condition needing urgent hospital treatment.

Low blood sugar can cause shaking, sweating, dizziness or altered consciousness, especially with some diabetes treatments. Oral sugar is appropriate only when the person is conscious and can swallow safely. An unconscious person needs emergency help and must not be given food or drink.

Maturity-onset diabetes of the young, or MODY, comprises several single-gene diabetes types. Identifying the gene may change treatment; it should not automatically be labeled type 1 or type 2.

Steroid-induced diabetes develops when corticosteroid treatment raises glucose in a previously undiagnosed person. Steroids can also worsen existing diabetes, requiring a monitoring plan.

Primary aldosteronism, also called Conn syndrome, is a treatable cause of hypertension due to excess adrenal aldosterone. Potassium may be normal; a normal result does not exclude it.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia comprises inherited disorders of adrenal hormone production. Severity ranges from salt-wasting disease to milder forms identified later in life.

Pheochromocytoma is a rare adrenal tumor that may release hormones causing hypertension, palpitations and sweating. Endocrine evaluation and specialist preparation are essential before intervention.

Zollinger-Ellison syndrome results from a gastrin-secreting tumor that increases stomach acid. Recurrent ulcers or diarrhea may occur, requiring both acid control and tumor assessment.

Pituitary adenomas are tumors arising in the pituitary gland, most of which are benign. They may secrete excess hormones or press on surrounding structures, causing hormonal disturbances or vision problems. They are treated with medication, trans-nasal surgery, or radiation depending on the type.

Pseudo-Cushing syndrome is an older term for non-neoplastic hypercortisolism, in which stress-response pathways are activated for various reasons. Findings may resemble Cushing syndrome and need endocrine assessment.

Hypercalcemia is a higher-than-normal calcium concentration, most often caused by overactive parathyroid glands and some cancers. It may be symptomless or cause thirst, frequent urination, constipation, fatigue, confusion, and kidney stones. It is treated by addressing the cause, hydration, and medications to lower calcium.

Hypocalcemia is low blood calcium that can affect nerves, muscles and the heart. It is not simply low dietary intake; interpretation considers symptoms, albumin and kidney function.

Sheehan syndrome is pituitary insufficiency that may follow severe bleeding and low blood pressure during childbirth. It can become apparent early or years later and requires hormone assessment and individualized replacement.

Delayed puberty warrants assessment when breast development has not begun by age 13 in girls or testicular enlargement by age 14 in boys. Constitutional variation is possible, but an underlying condition may need treatment.

Precocious puberty means true pubertal development earlier than expected, usually before age eight in girls or nine in boys. Evaluation considers cause and progression; not every early change requires treatment.

Growth hormone deficiency can slow height gain in children and has different effects in adults. Short stature or fatigue alone does not establish deficiency; diagnosis requires specialist endocrine assessment.

Prader-Willi syndrome is a genetic disorder affecting development, hormones, behavior and appetite. Infants may have low muscle tone and feeding difficulty before persistent hunger develops later, requiring coordinated lifelong support.

Obesity alongside chronic disease needs a plan for both weight and health, including diabetes, hypertension or sleep apnea. Having another condition does not automatically require a particular medicine or operation.

Central obesity describes excess abdominal fat and may carry metabolic risk even when body weight is not very high. Waist measurements are considered alongside weight and health, with sustainable care rather than blame or crash dieting.

Klinefelter syndrome is a chromosome condition usually involving an additional X chromosome in males. It may affect testosterone, fertility and learning, but features vary. Care is tailored to age and individual needs.

Turner syndrome is a chromosome condition involving complete or partial absence of one X chromosome, sometimes in only some cells. It can affect growth, ovarian function and the heart, requiring multidisciplinary care throughout life.

Parathyroid disorders affect a hormone that regulates calcium and phosphorus. Excess and deficient hormone activity have different causes, tests and treatments. These conditions are distinct from disorders of the thyroid gland itself.

Acromegaly is a rare hormonal disorder caused by excess growth hormone secretion in adults, producing progressive enlargement of the face, hands, feet, and internal organs with serious metabolic and cardiovascular complications.

Hypopituitarism means reduced production of one or more pituitary hormones. Symptoms depend on the affected hormones and may include fatigue, menstrual changes or impaired growth. Cortisol deficiency can become dangerous during acute illness.

Diabetes insipidus is a water-balance disorder causing large volumes of dilute urine and thirst. It differs from diabetes mellitus, which involves high blood glucose. Testing identifies the cause and guides safe fluid and treatment plans.

Male hypogonadism can cause low testosterone with compatible symptoms. Diagnosis requires assessment of the cause and confirmation of low hormone levels; tiredness or one isolated blood result is insufficient.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions including abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Treatment involves lifestyle modifications and medications prescribed by a healthcare provider.

Hyperprolactinemia is an elevated level of prolactin hormone in the blood, usually caused by a benign pituitary tumor or medications, leading to menstrual irregularities, erectile dysfunction, and infertility. Treatment includes oral medications like cabergoline or surgery in severe cases.

Simple goiter is an enlargement of the thyroid gland without hormonal imbalance, usually caused by iodine deficiency. It appears as a swelling in the neck and is treated with iodine supplements or surgery when symptomatic.

Addison's Disease is primary adrenal insufficiency causing low cortisol and aldosterone, leading to fatigue, weight loss, low blood pressure, and skin darkening. Treatment involves lifelong hormone replacement therapy under specialist supervision.

Cushing's syndrome results from excess cortisol exposure and may relate to prolonged steroid treatment or a gland disorder. An endocrinologist selects treatment according to the cause. Do not stop or reduce prescribed steroids on your own.

Vitamin D deficiency is a common condition in Jordan where levels of this essential vitamin drop in the blood, causing bone and muscle pain, fatigue, and weakness. Treatment involves vitamin D3 supplements and monitoring blood levels to reach a safe and healthy range.

Osteoporosis weakens bone density, increasing fracture risk, especially in the hip, spine, and wrist. Treatment includes calcium, vitamin D, and medications like bisphosphonates, combined with lifestyle modifications and exercise.

Obesity is a chronic disease characterized by excess body fat accumulation (BMI ≥30), increasing the risk of diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, cancer, and joint problems. It is treated through lifestyle changes, modern medications, and bariatric surgery when needed.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder affecting reproductive-aged women, characterized by irregular periods, elevated androgens, and multiple ovarian cysts. Treatment includes lifestyle modifications, hormonal medications, and fertility-focused therapies.

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excess hormones, accelerating metabolism and causing weight loss, heart palpitations, and anxiety. Treatment includes anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine, or surgery depending on the cause and severity.

Hypothyroidism is a chronic condition where the thyroid gland produces insufficient hormones, slowing metabolism and causing fatigue, weight gain, and cold sensitivity. Treatment involves daily levothyroxine supplementation for life, with periodic blood test monitoring.

Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, halting insulin production completely. It typically affects children and adolescents and requires daily insulin injections for life with careful blood glucose monitoring.

Type 2 Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body becomes resistant to insulin or produces insufficient amounts, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. It is managed through a balanced diet, exercise, oral medications, and sometimes insulin therapy.

Chronic leg ulcers are wounds that do not heal as expected and may reflect venous, arterial or other disease. Establishing cause and circulation is essential before choosing dressings or compression.

Raynaud’s phenomenon causes temporary narrowing of small vessels, usually in fingers or toes. Cold or emotional stress can trigger color changes, numbness or pain.

Peripheral artery disease narrows or blocks arteries supplying the limbs, usually the legs. It reduces blood flow and is associated with heart attack and stroke risk.

An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a pathological dilation of the abdominal aorta that risks catastrophic rupture with life-threatening hemorrhage requiring emergency surgery.

Aortic dissection is an acute tear in the inner layer of the aortic wall allowing blood to surge between the layers, representing a life-threatening vascular emergency.

Varicose veins are enlarged, twisted veins that usually appear in the legs due to weak vein valves and pooling of blood, causing heaviness, pain, and swelling. They are common especially with prolonged standing and pregnancy, and are managed with lifestyle changes, compression stockings, and modern interventional procedures.

Deep vein thrombosis is the formation of a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg, causing pain, swelling, and redness. Its danger is that it may break off and reach the lung, causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. It is treated with anticoagulants, and prevention matters after surgery and long travel.

Pressure ulcers, also called bedsores, are skin and tissue injuries caused by sustained pressure or pressure with shear. Damage can begin beneath intact skin and needs early assessment.

Myofascial pain syndrome involves muscles and surrounding connective tissue, with tender points that may refer pain elsewhere. Assessment relies on examination and considering other causes.

Musculoskeletal pain describes symptoms in muscles, joints, tendons or bones rather than a single diagnosis. Treatment depends on identifying the cause.

A vesicovaginal fistula is an abnormal connection between the bladder and vagina that allows urine leakage through the vagina. It differs from ordinary incontinence and is treatable with specialist care.

Pelvic inflammatory disease is infection of the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries and can cause mild symptoms. Early treatment reduces tubal damage; care should not wait for severe pain or every test result.

Adolescent polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal and metabolic disorder requiring puberty-appropriate diagnostic criteria. Irregular periods or an ultrasound showing multiple follicles alone do not confirm it.

Anovulation means no egg is released during a cycle and may be temporary or recurring. Bleeding that resembles a period does not prove ovulation occurred. Treatment depends on the cause and pregnancy goals.

Asherman syndrome involves adhesions inside the uterine cavity that may cause lighter or absent periods or difficulty conceiving. Symptoms alone do not establish the diagnosis; treatment reflects severity and individual goals.

Adenomyosis is the growth of endometrial glands and stroma within the uterine muscle wall, causing severe dysmenorrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding, and uterine enlargement.

Secondary dysmenorrhea is period pain caused by an underlying condition, such as endometriosis or fibroids. Worsening pain or pain disrupting daily life deserves assessment rather than being accepted as normal.

Vaginal yeast infection is a very common fungal inflammation caused by overgrowth of Candida fungus in the vagina. Its symptoms are itching, burning, thick white discharge, and redness. It is usually not a sexually transmitted infection. It is treated with topical or oral antifungals and often responds quickly. Frequent recurrence deserves evaluation of predisposing causes.

Bacterial vaginosis is an imbalance in the natural bacteria of the vagina, where some bacteria increase at the expense of beneficial ones. Its most famous sign is thin gray discharge with a characteristic fishy odor, especially after intercourse. It is common and not a sexually transmitted infection in the traditional sense. It is treated with antibiotics and tends to recur. Its evaluation is important to distinguish it from other infections.

Multiple pregnancy means two or more fetuses and requires care tailored to their number, placentas and amniotic sacs. Many pregnancies have healthy outcomes, although some complications and preterm birth are more likely.

Ectopic pregnancy is implantation of the fertilized egg outside the uterine cavity, often in the fallopian tube, so it cannot continue and threatens the mother's life if it ruptures. Its signs are one-sided abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and dizziness in early pregnancy. It is an emergency needing prompt diagnosis and treatment with medication or surgery.

Miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of pregnancy before week 20, more common than thought and usually not due to a mistake by the mother. Its main signs are vaginal bleeding and cramps. Most of it results from a random chromosomal abnormality in the fetus. Medical and emotional support is important, and most women conceive successfully later.

Eclampsia involves pregnancy- or postpartum-related seizures and is a maternal and fetal emergency. Any seizure during pregnancy or after delivery needs immediate emergency help, even without a previous hypertension diagnosis.

Preeclampsia is a serious complication appearing after mid-pregnancy, characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine or organ involvement. Its signs are severe headache, vision disturbance, swelling, and upper abdominal pain. It threatens the mother and fetus and needs close monitoring, and the definitive treatment is timely delivery.

Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar appearing for the first time during pregnancy due to placental hormones that resist insulin. It is often symptomless and detected by a routine test. Most of it is controlled with diet, exercise, and sometimes insulin, and usually resolves after delivery, but raises the mother's later diabetes risk and needs follow-up.

Postpartum hemorrhage is abnormal bleeding after birth, either immediately or after discharge. Heavy bleeding, faintness or breathing difficulty is an emergency; do not wait to measure blood loss or manage it at home.

Female urinary incontinence is involuntary urine leakage. It may occur with coughing or exertion, or follow a sudden urge. Treatment depends on the type; assessment and effective support are available.

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a group of physical and psychological symptoms appearing in the days before menstruation and resolving with its onset or after, such as bloating, breast pain, mood swings, tension, and fatigue. It is very common and varies in severity. It is relieved with a healthy lifestyle and sometimes medications. Very severe symptoms may be a harder form requiring evaluation.

Dysmenorrhea (period pain) is painful cramps in the lower abdomen accompanying menstruation, and is very common among women. The primary type is benign and due to uterine contraction, while the secondary type results from an underlying disease such as endometriosis. It is relieved by painkillers and warm compresses, and needs evaluation if it is severe or worsening.

Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is any deviation from normal menstrual parameters — excessive, irregular, or intermenstrual bleeding — requiring evaluation to exclude malignancy and address underlying causes.

Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are very common benign muscular tumors that grow in or around the uterine wall, and are not cancer. Many are symptomless, while some may cause heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on the bladder. Management depends on symptoms and the desire to have children, ranging from monitoring to medications and procedures.

Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation for 12 consecutive months, typically around age 50. It causes hot flashes, sleep disruption, vaginal dryness, and bone weakness. Treatment includes hormone therapy or non-hormonal options based on individual needs.

Uterine fibroids are common benign tumors of the uterus causing heavy bleeding, pain, and bladder pressure. Treatment options include medications, minimally invasive procedures, or surgery depending on severity.

Endometriosis is a chronic condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing severe pain and infertility. Treatment includes hormonal medications and laparoscopic surgery.

An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus causing sharp pain during and after defecation with bright red blood. It is usually caused by constipation and hard stool. Most cases heal with more fiber, fluids, and topical creams, and chronic ones may need additional treatment.

An anal fistula is a small abnormal channel that forms between the inside of the anal canal and the surrounding skin, usually after an anal abscess. It causes discharge, pain, and recurrent swelling and does not heal on its own. Treatment is surgical in most cases to close the channel while preserving continence.

Pilonidal disease is a pocket or cyst that forms in the skin at the top of the buttock cleft near the tailbone, often containing hair, and may become inflamed and turn into a painful abscess. It is common in young people, especially males and those who sit a lot. It is treated by draining the abscess when inflamed and surgery to remove the cyst in recurrent cases.

Boerhaave syndrome is a full-thickness esophageal tear, often following forceful vomiting or retching. It is an emergency because leaked contents can contaminate the chest.

Chronic or recurrent appendicitis describes uncommon appendiceal inflammation with persistent or intermittent pain. It should not be assumed to explain every recurrent right lower abdominal pain.

Burns are tissue injuries caused by heat, chemicals, electricity, or radiation, classified by depth and body surface area affected, often requiring urgent assessment and treatment.

A sebaceous cyst is a small benign lump under the skin filled with an oily or keratinous substance, appearing as a soft, slow-growing, usually painless lump, common on the face, neck, and back. It is not cancer. Many do not need treatment, but it may be surgically removed if it grows, bothers, or becomes inflamed. Squeezing it or trying to open it may cause infection.

A lipoma is a benign growth of fat cells, usually a soft, slowly growing lump beneath the skin. Many need no removal, but a new or changing lump should be examined before assuming it is a lipoma.

Bowel obstruction is the failure of intestinal contents to pass through the bowel, representing a surgical emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment.

Acute cholecystitis is sudden inflammation of the gallbladder, usually caused by cystic duct obstruction by a gallstone, presenting with severe right upper quadrant pain, fever, and tenderness.

Appendicitis is acute inflammation of the appendix (a small pouch attached to the large intestine), and is among the most common causes of emergency abdominal pain. Its main symptoms are pain that begins around the navel then moves to the lower right abdomen, with nausea and fever. It is an emergency needing prompt evaluation and usually surgical removal.

An umbilical hernia is tissue protruding through a weakness near the navel. Many childhood hernias close with growth, whereas adults need surgical assessment. Severe pain or vomiting with a trapped lump may signal an emergency.

An inguinal hernia is the protrusion of part of the intestine or tissue through a weak point in the abdominal wall in the groin area, so a bulge appears that increases with standing and effort and disappears when lying down. It is common, especially in men. It is usually painless but may become strangulated, becoming an emergency. The definitive treatment is surgical repair of the abdominal wall.

Gallstones are solid deposits of cholesterol or bilirubin that form inside the gallbladder. They may cause no symptoms but can trigger severe biliary colic and abdominal pain, especially after fatty meals. Treatment involves laparoscopic removal or surgery when symptoms develop.

Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins around the anus causing bright red bleeding, itching, and pain after bowel movements. Treatment includes fiber-rich diet, topical creams, and in severe cases, medical procedures or surgery.

Wells syndrome, or eosinophilic cellulitis, is a rare inflammatory skin disorder that can resemble bacterial infection. Assessment is needed before automatically prescribing antibiotics or steroids.

Segmental vitiligo is pigment loss usually affecting one region or one side of the body. Diagnosis distinguishes other causes of white patches and assesses activity before treatment.

Granuloma annulare is a benign skin condition with bumps sometimes arranged in rings. It is not itself a fungal infection or cancer, and some forms improve without treatment.

Erythema multiforme is an inflammatory reaction producing target-like skin lesions, often after infection. It may affect mucous membranes and is distinct from Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Sweet syndrome is a rare inflammatory skin disorder causing sudden tender patches or nodules, sometimes with fever. Assessment excludes infection and investigates possible medicine or illness associations.

Pyoderma gangrenosum is a rare inflammatory disease causing painful, sometimes rapidly enlarging ulcers. Despite its name, it is not primarily a bacterial infection and needs specialist assessment.

Ichthyosis describes a group of conditions causing dry, scaly and variably thickened skin. It may be inherited or acquired, with care determined by type, age and barrier impairment.

Lichen planus is a non-contagious inflammatory immune skin disease causing itchy purplish bumps or patches on the skin, and may affect the mouth, nails, and hair. It is chronic, comes in flares, and often improves over time. It is managed with creams and immune-suppressing treatments to ease itching and inflammation.

Hidradenitis suppurativa is a chronic inflammatory skin disease causing recurrent painful lumps, abscesses, and tunnels under the skin in fold areas such as the armpit, lower abdomen, and groin. It is not an infection or due to poor hygiene. Its diagnosis is often delayed, and early treatment eases pain and prevents scarring.

Acanthosis nigricans is a skin condition characterized by dark, velvety hyperpigmented patches in body folds, usually signaling insulin resistance, obesity, or rarely underlying malignancy.

Genital herpes is a viral infection that can cause painful sores or no obvious symptoms. Medicines reduce outbreaks and some transmission risk but do not permanently remove the virus.

Bee-sting allergy can cause a reaction beyond the sting site, including widespread hives, breathing difficulty or low blood pressure. Local swelling alone is not anaphylaxis, but systemic symptoms require prompt action.

Latex allergy is a reaction to natural-rubber proteins that can cause hives, respiratory symptoms or anaphylaxis. It differs from hand irritation and delayed dermatitis from rubber additives; identifying the reaction guides prevention and care.

A plantar wart is a growth on the sole caused by certain human papillomavirus types. It may hurt when walking and resemble a corn. Confirming the diagnosis matters before acids or freezing are used.

Necrobiosis lipoidica is an uncommon inflammatory skin disorder producing thin, shiny patches, usually on the shins. It can occur with or without diabetes. Ulcers or changing lesions need dermatological follow-up.

Acute urticaria causes itchy raised patches that come and go for less than six weeks. Individual wheals usually disappear within a day, sometimes with deeper swelling. Breathing difficulty or throat swelling requires emergency help.

Sunburn is skin injury from excessive ultraviolet exposure. It causes heat and pain and sometimes blisters. Move out of the sun and cool the skin gently; systemic symptoms or burns in young children need assessment.

A drug eruption is a skin reaction potentially related to medication, ranging from a limited rash to a serious reaction affecting skin and internal organs. Not every rash after medication proves allergy; timing, symptoms and other exposures require assessment.

Head lice are small insects that live on the scalp and feed on blood, very common among schoolchildren and spreading by direct head contact. Their main symptoms are scalp itching and the presence of nits (lice eggs) stuck to the hair. They are not evidence of poor hygiene. They are treated with special preparations and a lice comb, along with treating close contacts.

Scabies is a contagious skin infection caused by a tiny mite that burrows under the skin, producing intense itching that worsens at night and a rash. It spreads by prolonged direct skin contact. It is treated with creams or a medication that kills the mite, with treating all close contacts at the same time and washing clothes and bedding to prevent reinfection.

Impetigo is a superficial, contagious bacterial skin infection common in children, appearing as blisters or honey-colored crusts often around the nose and mouth. It spreads easily by contact. It is treated with topical or oral antibiotics and heals well, with the importance of hygiene and avoiding spreading the infection to others and on one's own body.

Erysipelas is a bacterial infection of superficial skin and nearby lymphatic vessels, often causing a painful, hot area with a distinct border. It needs clinician-selected antibiotics and urgent assessment when there are signs of spread.

Cellulitis is a bacterial infection of the deeper layers of the skin and the tissue beneath it, appearing as warm, painful, swollen, spreading redness, often in the leg. It needs antibiotics and may be dangerous if it spreads. Bacteria enter through a wound or crack in the skin. Rapid spread or fever requires urgent care.

A boil is a deep infection around a hair follicle that creates a painful lump and may fill with pus. Some small boils improve with gentle care; large, recurrent or fever-associated lesions may need drainage or additional treatment.

A skin abscess is a collection of pus within or beneath the skin that forms a painful, warm lump. It may need medical drainage. Antibiotic decisions depend on inflammation, spread, general condition and risk factors.

Nail fungus is a common fungal infection affecting the toenails more than the fingernails, making the nail thick, discolored (yellow or brown), brittle, and crumbly. It develops slowly and may be stubborn to treat. It often needs topical or oral antifungals for a long period, with patience and prevention to avoid recurrence.

Warts are benign skin growths caused by the human papillomavirus and spread by contact. They are very common, especially in children, and are usually harmless and may resolve on their own. They have types by their location and shape. Topical treatments and procedures to remove them are available when needed, with the importance of avoiding spreading them.

Hyperhidrosis is the production of sweat in amounts exceeding the body's need to cool itself, so a person sweats profusely even without heat or exertion, often on the palms, feet, and armpits. It is a common condition that may be embarrassing and affect life, and is not dangerous in the primary type. Graded treatments are available, from strong antiperspirants to medications and procedures, to relieve it effectively.

Lichen sclerosus is chronic skin inflammation causing pale patches and fragile or altered skin, particularly around the genitals. It differs from vitiligo and needs diagnosis, treatment and follow-up to control symptoms and limit scarring.

Pityriasis rosea is a temporary rash that usually resolves over several weeks, sometimes beginning with a larger patch followed by smaller ones. An atypical rash or rash during pregnancy needs assessment to confirm the diagnosis and exclude mimics.

Lichen simplex chronicus, also called neurodermatitis, is localized skin thickening within an itch–scratch cycle. Care addresses itch triggers and skin healing; the name does not mean the condition is purely psychological or contagious.

Drug allergy is a mistaken immune reaction to a certain medication, ranging from a rash and mild itching to a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that threatens life. It differs from the medication's expected side effects. The basis of management is avoiding the causative drug, informing every doctor and pharmacist of it, and carrying an alert card. Anaphylaxis is an emergency needing adrenaline immediately.

Seborrheic dermatitis is a common chronic skin condition affecting areas rich in oil glands such as the scalp and face, causing scaling, redness, and itching. Dandruff is a mild form of it. It is not contagious and not dangerous but tends to recur. It is controlled with medicated shampoos and creams, and avoiding irritants.

Chronic urticaria is the recurrence of itchy red welts (hives) for more than six weeks, often with no identifiable trigger.

Angioedema is a sudden, deep swelling of the skin and mucous membranes affecting the face, lips, throat, and tongue that can be life-threatening when the airway is involved.

Pemphigus vulgaris is a non-contagious autoimmune disease causing blisters and erosions of the skin or mucous membranes, especially the mouth. Specialist treatment controls immune activity while protecting the skin and nutrition.

Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy skin rash that appears after the skin touches an irritating or allergenic substance, such as certain metals, detergents, or cosmetics. It improves by avoiding the causative substance and topical treatment, and identifying the allergen is the key to preventing recurrence.

Tinea (ringworm) is a common fungal infection caused by fungi feeding on the outer skin layer, producing itchy, scaly ring-shaped patches. It affects the body, foot (athlete's foot), scalp, and nails. It is contagious and treated with antifungals, with hygiene and dryness preventing it.

Shingles (herpes zoster) is a painful rash caused by reactivation of the dormant chickenpox virus in the nerves, appearing as a band of blisters on one side of the body. It is common after age fifty or with weakened immunity; early antiviral treatment eases pain and complications, and a vaccine is available for prevention.

Herpes simplex is a very common viral infection causing painful sores or blisters, either around the mouth (cold sores) or in the genital area. The virus stays dormant in the body and may reactivate with triggers. There is no definitive cure, but antivirals ease outbreaks and reduce their frequency.

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition characterized by facial redness, visible blood vessels, and acne-like bumps that worsen with heat, alcohol, and spicy foods. Treatment includes topical creams, oral medications, and lifestyle modifications.

Vitiligo is a non-contagious skin disease in which areas of skin lose their color, appearing as white patches, because pigment cells stop producing melanin. It is not painful or physically dangerous and is treated with creams, phototherapy, and other options to restore or even out color.

Acne is an inflammation of the hair follicles and oil glands caused by bacteria and hormones, appearing as blackheads, pimples, and cysts. Treatment includes topical and oral medications, with severe cases requiring isotretinoin.

Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune skin disease causing rapid skin cell overproduction that leads to red, scaly plaques.

Atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a chronic skin inflammation causing intense itching, redness, and dryness, especially in children. Treatment includes moisturizers, topical creams, and modern biologics like dupilumab.

Cogan syndrome is a rare inflammatory disease affecting the eyes and inner ears, and sometimes blood vessels. Sudden hearing change or painful loss of vision needs prompt assessment.

Felty syndrome is a rare complication associated with rheumatoid arthritis and neutropenia, often with an enlarged spleen. Infection risk is central; not every low blood count in RA is Felty syndrome.

Eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a rare disorder often associated with asthma and elevated eosinophils. Nerves, lungs, heart and other organs may be affected; asthma alone is not EGPA.

Takayasu arteritis affects the aorta and its major branches. Narrowing or enlargement can impair circulation, requiring assessment of both inflammation and vessel structure.

Giant cell (temporal) arteritis is inflammation of the walls of medium and large arteries, especially in the head and temple, affecting older adults. Its symptoms are a new headache, temple pain, jaw pain when chewing, and vision change. It is an emergency because it may cause vision loss and needs corticosteroids immediately.

Polymyalgia rheumatica is an inflammatory disease affecting older adults, causing severe pain and stiffness in the shoulders, hips, and neck especially in the morning. It responds dramatically to low-dose corticosteroids. It may be linked to giant cell arteritis, which requires urgent attention to protect vision.

Polymyositis and dermatomyositis are inflammatory muscle disorders. Weakness can impair standing or lifting the arms, while dermatomyositis also causes characteristic skin changes.

Adult-onset Still disease is a rare inflammatory disorder causing recurrent fever, rash and joint symptoms. Diagnosis requires excluding mimicking illnesses; one ferritin result cannot confirm it.

Adult IgA vasculitis, formerly Henoch-Schonlein purpura, affects small vessels. Skin, joints, intestines and kidneys may be involved, making kidney surveillance important.

Mixed connective tissue disease is an immune disorder combining features of lupus, systemic sclerosis and inflammatory myositis. Organ involvement varies, so treatment requires individualized assessment and follow-up.

Sicca describes dryness of the eyes and mouth, potentially related to medicines, gland disorders or autoimmune disease. It is not generalized dehydration and alone neither proves nor excludes Sjogren disease.

Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disorder in which antiphospholipid antibodies cause pathological clotting in veins and arteries, recurrent pregnancy loss, and thrombocytopenia.

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis is a rare immune-mediated disease affecting the nose, sinuses, ears, lungs or kidneys. It was formerly called Wegener’s granulomatosis.

Microscopic polyangiitis is a rare immune-mediated inflammation of small blood vessels. Kidney and lung involvement can progress quickly and requires specialist care tailored to severity.

Behçet's disease is a chronic systemic vasculitis of unknown cause characterized by recurrent oral and genital ulcers, ocular inflammation, and vascular and neurological involvement.

Back pain in a person with lupus needs its own assessment. Having lupus does not prove spinal inflammation; muscles, discs, bone disease or infection may be responsible.

Septic arthritis is an infection inside a joint that can cause rapid damage. It requires urgent assessment, appropriate antimicrobial treatment and drainage when indicated.

Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disease affecting joints, tendons or the spine in some people with psoriasis. Joint symptoms can appear before a skin rash.

Pseudogout describes inflammatory joint attacks associated with calcium pyrophosphate crystals. It differs from uric-acid gout and can resemble joint infection, which must be considered.

Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are connective-tissue disorders with different subtypes and risks. Joint hypermobility, pain and skin fragility may occur, but flexible joints alone do not establish EDS.

Marfan syndrome affects connective tissue and can involve the aorta, eyes and skeleton. Surveillance helps prevent complications that may develop silently. Tall stature or a slim build alone does not establish the diagnosis.

Systemic sclerosis is an autoimmune disease affecting blood vessels and connective tissues. Skin thickening and internal-organ involvement vary between patients. Early lung, heart and kidney assessment helps guide individualized treatment.

Sjögren’s disease is an autoimmune condition that may cause dry eyes and mouth, fatigue and joint pain, sometimes involving other organs. Diagnosis combines symptoms and tests; treatment depends on the affected tissues and severity.

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory rheumatic disease affecting the spine and pelvic joints, causing inflammatory back pain and morning stiffness, and may over time lead to fusion of the vertebrae. It often affects young people, and early diagnosis, treatment, and exercise preserve mobility and prevent deformity.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder causing widespread body pain with fatigue, disturbed sleep, and poor concentration, without inflammation or tissue damage. It is caused by altered pain processing in the brain. It does not show on tests but is real, and is managed with exercise, therapy, and certain medications.

Systemic lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body's healthy tissues, causing inflammation in the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs. It is marked by flares and remissions and is managed with immune-modulating medicines and regular follow-up for a near-normal life.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that attacks the joint lining symmetrically, causing pain, swelling, and progressive deformity. It is treated with immunosuppressive drugs (DMARDs), biological medications, and targeted therapies.

Gout is a painful inflammatory arthritis caused by uric acid crystal deposition in joints, typically affecting the big toe. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory medications, urate-lowering drugs like allopurinol, and dietary modifications.

Neuroendocrine tumors arise from cells with nerve-like and hormone-producing features. They occur in sites including the gut, pancreas and lungs, with widely varying growth rates and treatments.

Carcinoid syndrome is a group of symptoms caused by substances released into the bloodstream by certain neuroendocrine tumors. Flushing and diarrhea may occur, but not every NET causes it.

Radiation side effects depend on the treated area, dose and nearby organs. They can begin during or after treatment and require an individualized follow-up plan.

Anemia during chemotherapy means reduced hemoglobin and oxygen-carrying capacity. Fatigue is common but does not establish the diagnosis; care depends on the cause and symptoms.

Low platelets during chemotherapy reduce the ability to stop bleeding. Risk depends on the count, its trend, active bleeding and other factors, rather than bruising alone.

Chemotherapy-related neutropenia is a reduction in infection-fighting white blood cells called neutrophils. It may cause no symptoms, but fever during this period requires urgent contact with the oncology team.

Some chemotherapy medicines cause hair loss by affecting rapidly dividing hair-follicle cells. Severity ranges from thinning to extensive loss, and not every treatment causes it.

Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting is among the most common and bothersome side effects for cancer patients, but it has become highly controllable. Prevention with anti-nausea medications given before and after sessions, along with dietary tips, is more important than treating it after it occurs.

Diarrhea during chemotherapy may reflect bowel-lining injury, infection or another problem. Early communication with the oncology team helps prevent dehydration and complications.

Tumor lysis syndrome is a dangerous disturbance caused by rapid cancer-cell breakdown releasing contents into blood. Kidney function and heart rhythm can be affected, requiring prevention, monitoring and urgent treatment.

Cytokine release syndrome is an inflammatory reaction that can follow certain cancer immunotherapies, including CAR T cells and bispecific antibodies. It may progress rapidly and needs urgent assessment.

Testicular cancer may present as a lump or change in testicular size and is often treatable. Not every swelling is cancer, but a new lump warrants prompt examination even without pain.

Laryngeal cancer is a malignant tumor arising in the tissues of the larynx (voice box); its hallmark symptom is persistent hoarseness. Smoking and alcohol are the main risk factors, and early detection improves cure rates through radiotherapy, surgery, or chemotherapy.

Esophageal cancer may cause progressive swallowing difficulty, painful swallowing or weight loss. Endoscopy and biopsy establish the diagnosis, followed by staging and type assessment to guide treatment and early nutritional support.

Stomach cancer may begin with nonspecific symptoms such as early fullness or persistent indigestion, or be detected after bleeding or weight loss. Diagnosis relies on endoscopy and tissue sampling; type, stage and tumour testing guide treatment.

Pancreatic cancer can cause jaundice, weight loss or upper-abdominal pain, but early symptoms may be absent. Treatment depends on tumour type, location, resectability and spread. Symptoms require assessment without assuming they automatically indicate cancer.

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a major form of primary liver cancer, often arising in chronic liver disease. Treatment considers both tumour stage and liver reserve. Not every liver mass is hepatocellular carcinoma.

Renal cell carcinoma is the most common adult kidney cancer and may be found incidentally before symptoms appear. Options depend on tumour size, spread and kidney function. Visible blood in urine should always be evaluated.

Bladder cancer is a malignant tumor arising from the lining of the urinary bladder; painless hematuria (blood in the urine) is its most common early symptom.

Lymphoma is a cancer arising in the lymphatic system that supports immunity, and its hallmark is painless lymph-node enlargement. Its two main types are Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin, and many are treatable and curable with chemotherapy, radiation, and immune therapies.

Melanoma is the most aggressive type of skin cancer, originating from pigment-producing cells and spreading rapidly to other organs. Treatment depends on stage and early detection using ABCDE criteria, involving surgical removal, immunotherapy, and targeted modern treatments.

Prostate cancer is among the most common cancers in men and is often slow-growing. Many cases cause no early symptoms and are found by PSA testing and clinical exam. Management ranges from active surveillance in low-risk cases to surgery, radiation, or hormone therapy in others.

Colorectal cancer is a malignant tumor that usually begins from benign polyps that slowly turn cancerous, making it one of the most preventable cancers through early colonoscopy screening. Symptoms include changes in bowel habits and blood in the stool; treatment is surgical and medical according to stage.

Lung cancer is a malignant tumor arising in lung tissue, with smoking its leading cause. Symptoms such as persistent cough and coughing up blood often appear late, so quitting smoking and early screening of high-risk groups are the most important defenses. Treatment combines surgery, radiation, and modern drug therapies.

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, arising from uncontrolled growth of breast cells. Early detection by self-exam and mammography greatly improves cure rates, and treatment combines surgery, radiation, and drug therapy according to the tumor type and stage.

Barrett's esophagus is a change in the lining of the lower esophagus due to chronic acid reflux, in which its cells transform to resemble intestinal cells. It often has no specific symptoms beyond reflux symptoms but slightly raises the risk of esophageal cancer, so it needs endoscopic surveillance and reflux control.

Achalasia is a rare disorder of esophageal motility in which the lower esophageal muscle fails to relax to pass food into the stomach, so food accumulates and causes progressive difficulty swallowing and regurgitation. It is managed with procedures to widen or cut the muscle to ease food passage.

Mallory-Weiss syndrome is a superficial tear near the lower esophagus and stomach that can bleed after forceful vomiting or retching. Vomiting blood requires urgent medical assessment.

Colon spasm describes painful contractions that may accompany bloating or altered bowel habits. Spastic colon is sometimes an older name for IBS, but spasm alone is not a diagnosis.

Intestinal worms are common parasitic infections in which worms live in the intestine, usually transmitted through contaminated food and water or soil. Many cases are mild, but they may cause abdominal pain, diarrhea, anemia, and malnutrition, especially in children. They are treated with anti-worm medications along with hygiene.

Hepatic echinococcosis is a parasitic infection that can form hydatid cysts in the liver. It differs from a simple cyst; care depends on parasite type, cyst stage, location and complications.

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth is an abnormal increase in bacteria that may cause bloating, diarrhea and impaired absorption. Bloating alone is insufficient for diagnosis.

Eosinophilic esophagitis is a chronic immune disease in which a type of immune cell (eosinophils) accumulates in the esophageal lining, often as an allergic reaction to foods. It causes difficulty swallowing, food impaction, chest pain, and heartburn that does not improve with acid medications. It is managed with dietary modification, medications, and esophageal dilation when needed.

Hepatic encephalopathy affects thinking and awareness when liver function is impaired or blood bypasses the liver through a shunt. Severity ranges from subtle changes to coma.

Diverticulitis is inflammation or infection of small pouches (diverticula) that form in the colon wall, more common in older adults. Its sign is persistent abdominal pain often in the lower left with fever and a change in bowel habits. It ranges from a mild case treated with rest and diet to a severe one needing antibiotics or surgery. Fiber prevents the formation of diverticula.

Short bowel syndrome occurs when the small intestine cannot absorb enough nutrients and fluids after substantial loss or damage. Specialized nutrition support may be required.

Liver cysts are fluid-containing spaces often found incidentally on imaging. Most simple cysts are benign and need no intervention. Complex cysts, infection-related lesions and inherited cystic disease require different evaluation and management.

Hepatitis A is a viral infection of the liver transmitted through contaminated food and water, causing jaundice, fatigue, and nausea. Patients usually recover completely without chronic disease, and prevention is possible through hygiene, safe water, and vaccination.

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption, causing intestinal inflammation and nutrient malabsorption. The only effective treatment is strict adherence to a lifelong gluten-free diet.

Lactose intolerance is the inability to digest milk sugar due to insufficient lactase enzyme, causing bloating, diarrhea, and gas. It is managed by avoiding dairy products or using lactase supplements and lactose-free alternatives.

Chronic constipation is infrequent or difficult bowel movements lasting three months or longer, affecting quality of life. Treatment includes increased fiber and water intake, laxatives, and prescription medications if needed under medical supervision.

Functional dyspepsia is discomfort or fullness in the stomach after meals without a clear organic cause. Treatment includes acid-reducing medications, prokinetics, and H. pylori eradication if present.

Pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas causing severe abdominal pain radiating to the back, most commonly triggered by gallstones or alcohol abuse. Treatment involves fasting, intravenous fluids, pain relief, and addressing the underlying cause.

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is accumulation of fat in liver cells due to obesity and insulin resistance, potentially progressing to inflammation and cirrhosis. Treatment involves weight loss, lifestyle changes, control of diabetes and cholesterol, and newer medications for advanced cases.

Liver cirrhosis is permanent scarring of the liver caused by chronic diseases such as viral hepatitis, alcohol abuse, and fatty liver disease. It leads to advanced liver failure and serious complications that may require transplantation. Treatment focuses on slowing progression and managing complications.

Hepatitis C is a viral infection transmitted through blood that affects the liver and can develop into chronic inflammation causing cirrhosis and liver cancer. Good news: modern direct-acting antiviral drugs (DAAs) like sofosbuvir and velpatasvir cure over 95% of cases.

Hepatitis B is a viral infection transmitted through blood and sexual contact, potentially becoming chronic and leading to cirrhosis and cancer. Prevention is available through vaccination, and antiviral medications provide effective treatment.

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the colon with inflammation and ulcers, causing bloody diarrhea and abdominal pain. Treatment includes anti-inflammatory medications and biologic therapies, alongside lifestyle modifications.

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel condition causing deep, patchy inflammation of the digestive tract. It leads to diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. Treatment includes immunosuppressants, biologics like TNF inhibitors, and corticosteroids.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic functional gut disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habits without identifiable structural disease.

Peptic ulcer disease is a sore in the stomach or duodenum lining, usually caused by H. pylori bacteria or pain relievers. It causes burning pain in the upper abdomen and is treated with antibiotics and acid-reducing medications.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a common condition where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing heartburn and acidic taste. Treatment includes lifestyle modifications and medications such as proton pump inhibitors and antacids.

Viral myocarditis is inflammation of the heart muscle usually caused by a virus, weakening the heart's pumping ability and causing rhythm disturbances. Its symptoms are chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, and fatigue after a viral infection. It ranges from mild and self-resolving to severe and life-threatening, needing urgent care.

Constrictive pericarditis limits heart expansion and filling because of changes in its surrounding sac. Constriction may be transient with active inflammation or permanent from scarring.

Cardiac amyloidosis occurs when abnormal proteins accumulate in the heart and impair filling and function. Identifying the protein type is essential because treatments differ substantially.

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome causes a sustained, excessive heart-rate rise on standing with symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue. Diagnosis requires excluding other causes of tachycardia.

Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome involves an extra electrical pathway between an atrium and ventricle that can trigger rapid rhythms. Assessment guides monitoring or appropriate treatment.

Ventricular tachycardia starts in the heart’s ventricles and may impair circulation or progress to cardiac arrest, particularly when sustained or associated with heart disease.

Supraventricular tachycardia describes rhythms originating above the ventricles that cause rapid heartbeat episodes, often with sudden onset and offset. An ECG identifies the rhythm.

Bradycardia is a heart rate below 60 beats per minute; it may be physiological (athletes) or pathological requiring treatment when symptoms of poor cardiac output develop.

Benign palpitations are uncomfortable awareness of heartbeats without underlying heart disease, most commonly caused by anxiety, caffeine, fatigue, and benign ectopic heartbeats such as premature ventricular contractions (PVCs).

Long QT syndrome affects electrical recovery between heartbeats and can cause dangerous rhythms and fainting. It may be inherited or related to medicines and electrolyte disturbances.

Brugada syndrome is an electrical heart disorder that can increase the risk of dangerous ventricular rhythms, sometimes without an obvious structural heart abnormality.

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a type of heart failure in which the heart pumps with near-normal strength but its muscle becomes stiff and fills poorly, causing breathlessness and swelling. It is managed by controlling conditions like hypertension and diabetes, diuretics, and lifestyle changes.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is first aid for cardiac arrest, not a disease. If an adult collapses, is unresponsive and is not breathing normally or only gasping, call emergency services, start chest compressions and use an available AED.

Pericarditis is inflammation of the sac surrounding the heart and may cause chest pain or fluid accumulation. New chest pain needs assessment for serious causes; relief on leaning forward is not enough to establish the diagnosis.

Dilated cardiomyopathy is enlargement of cardiac chambers with impaired contraction, usually involving the left ventricle. Causes vary, and some patients improve with treatment of the cause and an appropriate heart-failure plan.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is abnormal heart-muscle thickening that may impair filling or blood outflow. It often has a genetic basis, ranging from few symptoms to disease requiring specialist treatment and surveillance.

Vasovagal syncope is the most common type of fainting, occurring when there is a sudden drop in heart rate and blood pressure in response to a trigger such as pain, prolonged standing, or seeing blood, so blood to the brain decreases and the person loses consciousness for seconds then recovers quickly. It is usually benign, with prevention through avoiding triggers and recognizing early warning signs.

Heart valve disease occurs when one of the four heart valves narrows or leaks, weakening the heart's ability to pump blood and causing shortness of breath and fatigue. Treatment includes medications, valve repair, or replacement with an artificial or biological valve.

Atherosclerosis is a slow buildup of fatty and calcium deposits inside artery walls, narrowing blood vessels and reducing their elasticity, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Treatment involves medications, lifestyle changes, and medical interventions based on severity.

Myocardial infarction (heart attack) occurs when a coronary artery suddenly becomes blocked, stopping blood flow and causing death of heart muscle tissue. It causes severe chest pain, shortness of breath, and sweating, requiring emergency angioplasty within 90 minutes to restore blood flow and save lives.

Angina pectoris is chest pain or discomfort caused by temporary reduced blood flow to the heart due to narrowed coronary arteries. It resolves with rest or nitrate medications and does not cause permanent heart muscle damage, unlike a heart attack.

High cholesterol is a common condition where harmful fats (LDL) accumulate in the blood, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is managed through lifestyle changes, medications like statins, and modern therapies.

Atrial fibrillation is a heart rhythm disorder causing rapid, irregular heartbeats in the atria, reducing blood pumping efficiency and increasing stroke risk. Treatment includes anticoagulants, rate/rhythm-control medications, and catheter ablation.

Heart failure is a chronic condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the body's needs, causing fluid buildup and shortness of breath. Treatment includes medications, medical devices, lifestyle changes, and sometimes heart transplantation.

Coronary Artery Disease is narrowing of the heart's arteries due to fatty plaque buildup, reducing blood flow to heart muscle. Treatment includes medications, lifestyle changes, and in severe cases, angioplasty or bypass surgery.

Hypertension is a chronic condition where blood pressure in arteries remains ≥140/90 mmHg, increasing risk of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney disease. Treatment includes healthy diet, exercise, weight loss, and blood pressure-lowering medications under medical supervision.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome is a serious lung injury causing low oxygen through inflamed, fluid-filled air sacs. It requires hospital treatment, often in intensive care.

Pulmonary hypertension is an abnormal rise in the pressure of the arteries that carry blood from the heart to the lungs, straining the right side of the heart. Its symptoms are shortness of breath, fatigue, and palpitations that increase with exertion. It is a serious chronic condition needing specialized diagnosis and targeted treatment to ease symptoms and slow progression.

Long COVID is the persistence or appearance of symptoms for weeks or months after recovering from a COVID-19 infection, most notably fatigue, shortness of breath, and brain fog. It affects daily life and needs multidisciplinary evaluation and management, and often improves gradually over time with supportive care.

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease in which immune-cell clusters called granulomas form, often in the lungs and lymph nodes. Eyes, skin, heart and other organs may be affected.

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disease affecting breathing, digestion and other organs through altered salt and water transport. Specialist care and suitable mutation-directed treatments can improve health, but options are not identical for everyone.

Chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension develops when persistent clot-related obstruction and scarring raise pressure in the lung arteries and strain the right heart. Specialist assessment determines whether surgery, balloon procedures or medicines are appropriate.

Acute bronchitis is a short-term inflammation of the bronchial airway lining that causes a persistent cough with or without mucus production.

Chronic bronchitis is a chronic airway inflammation defined by a productive cough lasting at least three months per year for two consecutive years, most often caused by long-term smoking.

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic scarring lung disease with no identified cause after evaluation. Breathlessness and dry cough may develop. Treatment aims to slow deterioration and improve activity and quality of life.

Pulmonary embolism is a sudden blockage of a lung artery by a blood clot that usually comes from the deep leg veins, causing sudden shortness of breath and chest pain and may be life-threatening. It is an emergency needing urgent diagnosis and treatment with blood thinners, with prevention important after surgery and long travel.

Influenza is an acute, highly contagious viral respiratory infection whose symptoms are more severe than a cold and include fever, body aches, and exhaustion. It usually improves within a week with rest and fluids; annual vaccination is the most important way to prevent it, especially for at-risk groups.

COVID-19 is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2), with symptoms ranging from mild (fever, cough, loss of smell) to severe pneumonia. Vaccines and preventive measures help reduce infection and severity, and treatment is supportive with antivirals for at-risk groups.

Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is the presence of TB bacteria in the body without active disease symptoms, detected through skin or blood tests. It is treated with preventive medications to stop progression to active TB, especially in high-risk groups such as healthcare workers and immunocompromised individuals.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition of repeated breathing pauses during sleep due to upper airway blockage, causing snoring, daytime fatigue, and high blood pressure. Treatment includes CPAP devices, weight loss, and lifestyle changes.

Tuberculosis is an infectious bacterial disease spread through air that primarily affects the lungs, causing persistent cough and weight loss. Treatment requires multiple antibiotics for six months, and early diagnosis with consistent therapy leads to complete cure.

Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the lung tissue and fills the air sacs with fluid or pus, causing fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Treatment involves antibiotics based on the cause, along with supportive care to aid breathing and recovery.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung disease causing shortness of breath and persistent cough, often linked to smoking. Treatment includes inhalers, medications, and pulmonary rehabilitation to improve quality of life.

Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease that narrows the airways, causing wheezing, shortness of breath, and persistent cough. Treatment involves inhaled corticosteroids and bronchodilators, combined with trigger avoidance and careful symptom management.

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is a rare blood disorder that can cause red-cell breakdown, anemia and clots. It does not occur only at night, and dark urine is not always present.

Aplastic anemia is a rare, serious condition in which the bone marrow stops producing enough blood cells of all types, so red cells, white cells, and platelets all decrease. It causes fatigue, infection, and bleeding. It is treated with blood transfusions, immune suppression, and bone-marrow transplant, which may cure it in selected cases.

Immune heparin-induced thrombocytopenia lowers platelets while increasing clot risk rather than primarily causing bleeding. Suspected cases require urgent clinical assessment and appropriate treatment.

Von Willebrand disease is a bleeding disorder involving too little or poorly functioning von Willebrand factor, affecting platelet adhesion and factor VIII protection. Types and severity vary.

Hemophilia B is an inherited bleeding disorder caused by a deficiency of clotting factor IX, so blood clots slowly and bleeding recurs, especially in joints and muscles. It is managed by replacing the missing factor and specialized prophylaxis programs.

Hemophilia A is a bleeding disorder caused by low clotting factor VIII. Severity varies; bleeding may persist after injury or occur inside joints and muscles.

Myelofibrosis is a marrow disorder in which abnormal blood-forming cells and scarring impair blood production, sometimes causing anemia and an enlarged spleen.

Essential thrombocythemia is a chronic marrow disorder that increases platelet production and can cause clots or bleeding. It differs from reactive platelet elevation due to inflammation or iron deficiency.

Polycythemia vera is a myeloproliferative neoplasm causing excessive blood-cell production, especially red cells, and increased clot risk. It differs from raised hemoglobin due to dehydration or low oxygen.

Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of bone-marrow disorders in which the marrow fails to produce enough healthy blood cells, leading to low blood counts. Management ranges from monitoring and transfusion support to specific medications and bone-marrow transplant in high-risk cases.

Multiple myeloma is a cancer of marrow plasma cells that can affect bones, kidneys, blood counts and immunity. Assessment distinguishes active disease from precursor conditions.

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia is a rapidly progressing cancer of immature lymphoid cells in blood and marrow. It affects children and adults and needs prompt specialist treatment.

Acute myeloid leukemia is a rapidly developing blood and marrow cancer that disrupts normal blood-cell production. Urgent assessment and subtype identification guide treatment.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia is a lymphocyte cancer that progresses slowly in many people. Structured observation may be appropriate before treatment becomes necessary.

Chronic myeloid leukemia is a blood-forming cell cancer usually driven by an acquired fusion gene. Targeted medicines have substantially improved long-term disease control.

G6PD deficiency is an inherited condition that can make red blood cells break down after certain triggers. Favism describes reactions to fava beans, but infections and some medicines can also cause hemolysis.

Immune thrombocytopenia is an autoimmune disorder in which the immune system attacks and destroys blood platelets, so their count drops and the risk of bruising and bleeding rises. It may be mild and only monitored or need treatment to raise platelets. Many childhood cases resolve on their own.

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder in which red blood cells change into a rigid sickle shape that obstructs blood flow, causing severe pain crises, chronic anemia, and susceptibility to infection. It is managed by preventing crises and supportive care, and may be cured by bone-marrow transplant in selected cases.

Thalassemia is an inherited blood disease that reduces production of normal hemoglobin, causing chronic anemia of varying degrees. It is common in our region and is passed from gene-carrying parents. It ranges from a symptomless carrier state to major thalassemia needing regular blood transfusions. Premarital screening prevents having affected children.

Iron-deficiency anemia is the most common type of anemia, occurring when the body lacks enough iron to make hemoglobin, reducing oxygen delivery and causing fatigue and pallor. It is treated by addressing the cause and replacing iron through diet and supplements.

Leukemia (blood cancer) is a cancer of blood cells and bone marrow, in which the marrow makes abnormal white cells that crowd out healthy cells. Its types are acute and chronic, and symptoms include fatigue, infections, and bleeding. Treatment includes chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and bone-marrow transplant depending on the type.

Adults with Down syndrome benefit from care that respects their abilities, preferences and goals. Follow-up aims to detect treatable conditions and support independence and participation.

Recurrent falls in older adults need assessment of modifiable causes rather than being accepted as inevitable aging. Balance problems, medicines, vision and home hazards may combine. Individual prevention helps preserve independence.

Enlarged lymph nodes have several causes, most commonly infection. A lump does not automatically mean cancer; its location, duration and associated symptoms guide assessment and testing.

Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs when the body lacks sufficient B12, causing anemia, weakness, and nerve damage. It is treated with injections or high-dose oral supplements and dietary changes.

Hereditary hearing loss is associated with genetic changes and may begin at birth or later. Identifying the type helps guide rehabilitation, follow-up and family genetic counseling.

Occupational hearing loss may result from workplace noise or chemicals harmful to hearing. Prevention focuses on exposure reduction and hearing surveillance. Rehabilitation supports communication but cannot repair permanent inner-ear damage.

Meniere's disease is an inner-ear disorder causing severe vertigo attacks, tinnitus, fluctuating hearing loss, and a feeling of ear fullness, thought to be linked to increased inner-ear fluid. It is chronic and comes in attacks, managed with reduced salt, medication, and lifestyle changes to limit attacks.

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo is the most common cause of dizziness — a short, intense spinning sensation triggered by head-position changes, due to tiny crystals moving inside the inner ear. It is not dangerous and is often effectively treated with repositioning maneuvers performed by the doctor.

Tinnitus is the sensation of hearing a sound (ringing, buzzing, or humming) without an external source, a very common symptom and not a disease in itself. Its most common causes are noise exposure and age-related hearing loss. It is usually not dangerous but can be bothersome. Treating the cause, coping techniques, and hearing devices help relieve it.

Hearing loss is a reduced ability to hear sounds, ranging from mild to severe, and may be conductive or sensorineural. Its causes include aging, noise, earwax, and infection. Early detection matters, and treatment includes removing the cause, hearing aids, and implanted devices according to the case.

Dehydration is a shortage of body fluids below need due to low intake or increased loss (diarrhea, vomiting, heat, sweating), so body function is impaired. Its symptoms are thirst, reduced urination, and dizziness. It is dangerous especially in children and older adults, treated by fluid replacement, with prevention through adequate drinking.

Alcohol poisoning is a life-threatening emergency from rapid ingestion of large amounts of alcohol, causing severe CNS and respiratory depression that can rapidly lead to coma and death.

Acetaminophen (paracetamol) toxicity from overdose causes progressive liver damage and potentially fatal acute liver failure, but is highly treatable with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) if given promptly.

Carbon monoxide poisoning follows inhalation of an odorless, colorless toxic gas produced by fuel combustion. It disrupts oxygen delivery and use and can be life-threatening.

Heatstroke is an emergency in which heat regulation fails with altered consciousness or neurological dysfunction. Rapid cooling and emergency help must not wait for a particular thermometer reading.

Electrolyte imbalance means levels of minerals such as sodium, potassium, calcium or magnesium are too high or low. Effects and treatment depend on the mineral, cause and speed of change.

High blood potassium can disturb heart rhythm even without obvious symptoms. Its level, rate of rise, kidney function and electrocardiogram help determine urgency.

Hyponatremia is a below-normal sodium concentration in the blood and is among the most common salt disorders. It results from excess water, sodium loss, or certain diseases. Its symptoms are nausea, headache, and confusion, and it can be dangerous if it develops quickly. It is treated by addressing the cause and carefully correcting the sodium.

Anti-glomerular basement membrane disease, also called Goodpasture disease, is a rare immune disorder that can cause rapidly progressive kidney inflammation and lung bleeding, requiring urgent treatment.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a sudden decline in kidney function over hours to days, causing accumulation of nitrogenous waste and disruption of fluid and electrolyte balance.

A simple renal cyst is a fluid-filled sac on the kidney, common with age and usually benign, symptomless, and needing no treatment. Most are found incidentally on imaging and simply monitored; intervention is reserved for symptoms or complications.

Glomerulonephritis is inflammation of the kidneys’ microscopic filters. It can cause urinary blood or protein, hypertension and declining function. Several forms exist, with treatment determined by the cause and pace of deterioration.

Nephrotic syndrome is a pattern of heavy urinary protein loss, low blood albumin and swelling. It affects children and adults. Treatment depends on the underlying kidney disorder rather than swelling alone.

Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder causing numerous kidney cysts that may impair kidney function. Severity varies. Management focuses on preserving function, controlling blood pressure and monitoring complications.

Chronic Kidney Disease is a gradual decline in kidney function lasting more than 3 months, most often caused by diabetes and high blood pressure. It is managed through controlling the underlying cause, medications, lifestyle changes, and dialysis or transplant in advanced stages.

Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and travel through the urinary tract, causing severe flank pain, nausea, and blood in urine. Treatment includes hydration, pain relief, and specialized procedures like shock wave lithotripsy or endoscopic removal.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (myalgic encephalomyelitis) is a complex chronic illness causing severe fatigue that does not improve with rest and worsens after exertion, with sleep disturbance and difficulty concentrating. It is not laziness or depression but a real medical condition managed with careful activity pacing and symptom treatment.

Sleepwalking is a sleep disorder in which a person gets up and walks or performs other behaviors while asleep and unaware, common in children and often outgrown with age. It usually does not indicate a psychological problem. The most important thing is securing the environment to prevent injuries, and waking the person abruptly is not advised.

Nightmare disorder involves repeated distressing dreams that disrupt sleep or daytime life. Occasional nightmares are common and do not automatically require medication.

Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological disorder of sleep-wake regulation causing severe daytime sleepiness and sudden sleep attacks, and sometimes sudden loss of muscle strength with emotions (cataplexy). It is not laziness but a brain dysfunction, managed with medication and lifestyle changes to improve wakefulness and quality of life.

Shift work sleep disorder occurs when work timing conflicts with the body clock, causing insomnia or sleepiness that impairs functioning. Not every night-shift worker develops it.

Suicidal thoughts signal distress deserving support without blame. If you may act soon or cannot stay safe, call Jordan’s emergency number 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

Adult ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder whose symptoms begin in childhood and may persist or be recognized later. Occasional distraction or an online questionnaire alone is not enough for diagnosis.

Gambling disorder involves repeated gambling that is difficult to control and harms health, relationships or finances. Loss size alone does not define it, and help is appropriate before a financial crisis develops.

Seasonal affective disorder is depression with a recurring seasonal pattern, usually in winter and sometimes summer. It differs from a brief mood change and merits assessment when sleep, work, education or relationships are affected.

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a pervasive pattern of emotional, relational, and identity instability that impairs self-regulation and is associated with self-harm and suicidal behavior.

Social anxiety disorder is an anxiety disorder in which a person feels intense and persistent fear of social situations for fear of judgment or embarrassment, so they avoid them or endure them with distress. It is more than mere shyness and affects study, work, and relationships. It is a common condition treatable effectively through cognitive behavioral therapy and medications when needed.

Panic disorder is a mental health condition with recurrent sudden panic attacks of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, dizziness, and a sense of impending doom, without real danger. Many confuse it with a heart attack. It is effectively treatable through psychotherapy (cognitive behavioral) and medications, with great improvement for most patients.

Postpartum depression is real depression affecting the mother after childbirth, deeper and longer than the transient baby blues, involving persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, and difficulty bonding with the baby. It is a common medical condition, not a failing by the mother, and is treatable with support, psychotherapy, and medications. Seeking help early is important for the mother and baby.

Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses characterized by abnormal eating patterns and intense preoccupation with weight and body image. They include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder, treated by a multidisciplinary team of psychiatrists and nutritionists.

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder in which it is hard to fall or stay asleep, or sleep is unrefreshing despite adequate opportunity, affecting daytime energy and mood. It is treated first by improving sleep habits and cognitive behavioral therapy, with short-term medication when needed.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops after exposure to a severe traumatic event, causing nightmares, intrusive memories, avoidance, and hyperarousal. Treatment includes SSRIs, specialized psychotherapy (EMDR, CBT), and Prazosin for nightmares.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder is a mental health condition of obsessions (intrusive distressing thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors to relieve anxiety). It is time-consuming and distressing, and is effectively treatable with cognitive behavioral therapy and antidepressant medications.

Schizophrenia is a chronic mental disorder affecting how a person thinks, perceives, and feels, and may cause delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking. It is not a split personality and does not mean dangerousness, and is treatable with medication, psychotherapy, and social support for a better life.

Bipolar disorder is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings between manic highs and depressive lows. Treatment includes mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and psychotherapy to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Generalized Anxiety Disorder is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, excessive worry lasting six months or longer, accompanied by muscle tension, sleep disturbance, and difficulty concentrating. Treatment involves antidepressant medications and cognitive-behavioral therapy with high success rates.

Depression is a common mental health disorder causing persistent sadness and loss of interest and pleasure for weeks, affecting sleep, appetite, concentration, and the ability to function. It is a treatable medical condition managed with psychotherapy, medication, and lifestyle changes, not a personal weakness.

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy is nerve injury that may cause numbness, pain, weakness or imbalance. Early reporting helps the team protect function and adjust supportive care.

Complex regional pain syndrome causes persistent pain disproportionate to an injury, sometimes with sensory and movement changes. Early recognition helps guide appropriate rehabilitation.

Guillain–Barré syndrome is a rare immune disorder of peripheral nerves. Rapidly worsening weakness requires urgent assessment and hospital monitoring.

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder impairing nerve-to-muscle signaling, causing fluctuating weakness that worsens with use. Severe breathing or swallowing difficulty may indicate a crisis requiring immediate emergency help.

Duchenne muscular dystrophy causes progressive muscle weakness, usually beginning in childhood in boys. Early diagnosis and neurological, cardiac and respiratory follow-up matter; enlarged calves do not mean stronger muscles.

Carpal tunnel syndrome is compression of the median nerve in the wrist causing numbness, pain, and weakness in the hand.

Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage affecting the extremities, causing numbness, burning, and pain in the hands and feet. It commonly results from diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, or chemotherapy. Treatment includes medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications.

Pinworm infection is a very common intestinal infection, especially in children, caused by small white worms that live in the intestine and lay eggs around the anus at night, causing intense nighttime anal itching. It is contagious and spreads easily, treated with a simple medication for the child and family along with strict hygiene.

Peanut allergy is an immune reaction to peanut proteins, among the most dangerous food allergies because it can cause life-threatening anaphylaxis with small amounts. It is managed with strict avoidance and carrying an adrenaline auto-injector, and often persists for life.

Cow's milk allergy is an immune reaction to milk proteins, common in infants and young children and different from lactose intolerance. Its symptoms are skin, digestive, and respiratory and may be severe. It is managed by avoiding milk and its products and choosing suitable alternatives, and many children outgrow it with age.

Egg allergy is among the most common food allergies in children, an immune reaction to egg proteins (especially the white). Its symptoms are skin, digestive, and respiratory and may be severe. It is managed by avoiding eggs and their products, and many children outgrow it with age.

Medical follow-up for a child with Down syndrome combines routine health care with developmental, communication and educational support. Needs vary, and surveillance aims to identify treatable problems early.

Nocturnal enuresis (bedwetting) is involuntary urination during sleep beyond the age when control is expected; it is very common and often part of normal development and not the child's fault. Most cases improve with age, and behavioral habits, alarm devices, and medication when needed help.

Shaken baby syndrome is a familiar name for brain injury caused by violently shaking an infant or young child, within abusive head trauma. Suspected injury requires emergency assessment.

Speech or language delay means communication skills are developing more slowly than expected for age. Speech-sound production differs from understanding and using language; assessment identifies the support needed.

IgA vasculitis, formerly Henoch–Schönlein purpura, inflames small blood vessels and can affect the skin, joints, bowel and kidneys.

Kawasaki disease inflames blood vessels in children, usually under five, and can affect coronary arteries. Early recognition and treatment help reduce cardiac complications.

Adolescent obesity is assessed with age- and sex-appropriate growth references and attention to mental and physical health. Effective care supports young people and families without blame, bullying or crash diets.

Faltering growth describes weight gain or physical growth that is not following an expected pattern. One weight or comparison with peers is insufficient; serial measurements, feeding and overall health matter.

Rickets impairs mineralization of growing bones and may cause pain, deformity or poor growth. Vitamin D or calcium deficiency can cause it, but not every case has the same cause or requires the same supplement dose.

Phenylketonuria is an inherited disorder of processing the amino acid phenylalanine. Newborn screening and early treatment help protect brain development, with nutritional and blood-level monitoring continuing throughout life.

Wheat allergy is an immune reaction to wheat proteins that can cause itching, hives, digestive or respiratory symptoms and sometimes anaphylaxis. It differs from celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity; assessment guides avoidance and emergency planning.

Down syndrome is a genetic condition resulting from an extra copy of chromosome 21, affecting appearance, growth, and cognitive abilities to varying degrees. It is not a contagious disease or a fault of the parents. With early healthcare, rehabilitative intervention, and support, many affected people live active, productive lives. Regular medical follow-up is important for their health.

Pertussis (whooping cough) is a highly contagious bacterial respiratory infection causing violent coughing fits ending in a whooping intake of breath. It is dangerous for infants, prevented by vaccination, and treated with early antibiotics.

Childhood obesity is a multifactorial condition assessed in the context of age, growth and overall health. Supportive family care is essential; specialist programmes or additional treatment may be appropriate according to severity, age and complications.

Anaphylaxis is a severe, sudden allergic reaction affecting more than one body system within minutes, and it threatens life. Its main signs are difficulty breathing, throat swelling, a spreading rash, low blood pressure, and dizziness. The immediate, life-saving treatment is an adrenaline injection into the thigh muscle then calling emergency services directly, without waiting.

Food allergy is a mistaken immune reaction to a certain food, where the body treats it as a danger. It ranges from mild skin and digestive symptoms to a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) that threatens life. The most common causative foods are known. The basis of management is avoiding the causative food and knowing how to act during a severe reaction.

Mumps is a contagious viral infection characterized by painful swelling of the parotid salivary glands in front of and below the ear, with fever and headache. It spreads by respiratory droplets. It usually recovers on its own with rest, but may sometimes cause complications. Vaccination (the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine) is the most important means of prevention.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease causing fever, a characteristic rash, and respiratory symptoms. It can be serious, especially in young children, and is prevented very effectively by the MMR vaccine. Treatment is supportive, with vitamin A and patient isolation important.

Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus, appearing as an itchy fluid-filled rash with fever. It is common in children and usually mild, and is prevented by vaccination. It can be more severe in adults, pregnant women, and the immunocompromised.

Constipation in children is a very common problem of hard, infrequent, painful stools, usually due to diet or stool withholding rather than an organic disease. It is treated by increasing fiber and fluids and adjusting habits, sometimes with laxatives under a doctor's guidance, along with reassuring parents.

Pediatric gastroenteritis is a common viral infection causing diarrhea and vomiting in children. Treatment includes oral rehydration solutions, zinc supplementation, and monitoring for dehydration signs. Rotavirus vaccination provides effective prevention.

Pediatric fever is an elevated body temperature above 38°C in children, typically caused by viral or bacterial infections. Treatment involves safe fever reducers like paracetamol and ibuprofen with careful monitoring, and consulting a doctor if fever persists or warning signs appear.

REM sleep behavior disorder causes dream enactment through movement or vocalization when normal muscle relaxation during REM sleep is lost. The sleeper or bed partner can be injured.

Restless legs syndrome is a neurological disorder causing an irresistible urge to move the legs with an uncomfortable sensation that worsens at rest and in the evening and eases with movement, disrupting sleep. It is sometimes linked to iron deficiency. It is managed by treating the cause, lifestyle changes, and medication when needed.

Korsakoff syndrome is a persistent memory disorder associated with brain injury from thiamine deficiency, often following Wernicke encephalopathy. It requires assessment, treatment, rehabilitation and practical longer-term support.

Wernicke encephalopathy is a neurological emergency caused by severe thiamine, or vitamin B1, deficiency. It needs rapid treatment and can occur without alcohol use.

Brain death means permanent loss of brain function, including the brainstem, established using strict diagnostic criteria. It differs from coma and cannot be inferred from unresponsiveness alone.

Coma is profound unconsciousness in which a person cannot be awakened or give purposeful responses. It is an emergency requiring breathing and circulation support and rapid investigation.

A concussion is a mild brain injury resulting from a blow or jolt to the head that temporarily affects brain function. Its symptoms are headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and difficulty concentrating, which may not appear immediately. Most recover with gradual mental and physical rest, but some warning signs require urgent evaluation to exclude a more serious injury.

Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis blocks blood drainage from the brain and may cause headache, visual problems or seizures. Suspected cases require urgent assessment.

Prion diseases are rare brain disorders involving abnormally folded proteins. Specialist evaluation is important to distinguish them from potentially treatable conditions.

Huntington disease is an inherited condition progressively affecting movement, thinking and mood. Care addresses changing symptoms while supporting the person and family.

Essential tremor causes involuntary shaking, most often while using the hands. Severity varies, and assessment distinguishes it from other causes of tremor.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a fatal progressive neurodegenerative disease destroying motor neurons, causing escalating muscle weakness, paralysis, and ultimately death, usually from respiratory failure.

Tourette syndrome begins before adulthood and involves recurring motor and vocal tics. It is not deliberate behavior and does not require offensive speech. Treatment depends on its impact on daily life.

A transient ischemic attack is sudden neurological dysfunction from temporarily reduced blood flow to the brain or retina. Symptoms resolving does not make it safe: it can warn of a stroke and requires emergency assessment without waiting for recurrence.

Cluster headache is one of the most painful headache types, coming in short, severe attacks around one eye that recur in time clusters. It is accompanied by redness, tearing, and nasal congestion on the same side. It needs specialized acute and preventive treatment, and early diagnosis is important to avoid suffering.

Tension headache is the most common type of headache, described as a pressing or tightening sensation around the head like a band, mild to moderate in intensity. It is often linked to stress, eye strain, and posture. It is managed with simple pain relievers and stress management, with prevention through lifestyle changes.

Hiccups are involuntary diaphragm spasms. Episodes lasting over 48 hours, or disrupting eating or sleep, need medical assessment to identify the cause and suitable treatment.

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks myelin (the protective covering of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord), causing weakness, fatigue, vision problems, and balance issues. Treatment involves immunomodulatory drugs and modern biological therapies to slow disease progression and manage symptoms.

Parkinson's Disease is a progressive neurological disorder caused by dopamine deficiency in the brain, leading to tremor, muscle stiffness, and slow movement. It is managed with medications like levodopa and dopamine agonists, and in advanced cases, deep brain stimulation may be considered.

Alzheimer's Disease is the most common cause of dementia, characterized by gradual decline in memory and cognitive abilities. Treatment includes medications like donepezil and memantine, along with newer biological therapies for early-stage disease and comprehensive psychosocial support.

Migraine is a moderate-to-severe throbbing headache, usually on one side of the head, accompanied by nausea, sensitivity to light and sound, and sometimes visual disturbances. Treatment includes triptans to stop acute attacks and preventive CGRP inhibitors to reduce attack frequency.

A stroke is a sudden interruption of blood flow to the brain, either by a clot (ischemic) or bleeding (hemorrhagic), causing brain cells to die. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment with clot-busting drugs or surgical intervention to prevent permanent disability.

Specific learning difficulties affect skills such as reading, writing or mathematics despite learning opportunities. They do not mean laziness or low intelligence; assessment considers educational and developmental context.

Asperger syndrome is a former diagnostic term now included within autism spectrum disorder in modern classifications. Some people still use it as part of their identity; support needs vary.

Fragile X syndrome can affect learning, language, attention and behavior in males and females. Support needs vary, and developmental or communication intervention can begin while diagnostic investigations continue.

Rett syndrome is a genetic neurodevelopmental disorder, usually affecting girls, that may cause loss of hand or communication skills after early development. Any developmental regression warrants assessment rather than prolonged waiting.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting social communication, interaction, and behavior that begins in early childhood. Treatment includes early intervention, behavioral therapy, speech therapy, and occupational rehabilitation.

ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting 5-7% of children, causing difficulties with focus, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Treatment includes stimulant medications, behavioral therapy, and psychological support.

Opioid withdrawal is a symptom cluster after stopping or reducing opioids in someone whose body has adapted to them. It needs assessment and does not by itself prove addiction.

Delirium tremens is a severe alcohol-withdrawal state involving impaired attention and awareness with marked physical overactivity. It can be life-threatening and requires immediate hospital care.

Alcohol withdrawal syndrome ranges from mild tremors and anxiety to life-threatening seizures and delirium tremens (DTs) in heavy drinkers who suddenly stop drinking, requiring medical management.

Cocaine use disorder involves difficulty controlling use despite health or social harm. Daily use is not required for a problem to exist, and psychological and behavioral treatments can support recovery.

Opioid use disorder is a treatable condition involving impaired control of opioid use and resulting harm or disruption. Physical dependence on a prescribed pain medicine alone does not establish the diagnosis.

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive alcohol use, loss of control over intake, and negative emotional states when not drinking.

Nicotine dependence is a physical and psychological reliance on the nicotine in tobacco that makes quitting hard despite knowing its harms. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death. Quitting is possible at any age and improves health quickly, and medications and behavioral support double the chances of success.

Achilles tendinopathy is pain, stiffness, and thickening of the Achilles tendon from overuse or degenerative changes, affecting athletes and sedentary individuals and requiring structured rehabilitation.

Golfer’s elbow is a tendon disorder on the inner side of the elbow, causing pain with gripping or wrist flexion. It also affects people who do not play golf.

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is pain on the outer side of the elbow resulting from repeated strain of the forearm muscle tendons, and is not limited to tennis players. Its main symptom is pain outside the elbow that increases with gripping things and using the hand. Most of it improves with relative rest, exercises, and physical therapy, and it rarely needs intervention.

A meniscus tear is a common knee injury in which the meniscus, the cartilage that acts as a shock-absorbing cushion between the thigh and shin bones, tears. It happens with a sudden twist of the knee or with aging. Its symptoms are pain, swelling, clicking, and sometimes knee locking. Treatment depends on the type and location of the tear, from rehabilitation to arthroscopic surgery.

An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury is a tear or sprain of the ligament that stabilizes the knee joint, common in sports requiring sudden direction changes or jumping and landing. A popping sound is often heard at the time of injury, with pain, rapid swelling, and a feeling of knee instability. Treatment depends on the severity and the patient's activity, from rehabilitation to reconstruction surgery.

Spinal cord injury can affect movement, sensation and other bodily functions according to its level and severity. Emergency treatment and rehabilitation are central to care.

Tumors within or around the spinal cord can affect movement and sensation. Not all are cancerous, but progressive neurological compression needs urgent assessment.

An acoustic neuroma (vestibular schwannoma) is a benign slow-growing tumor arising from the Schwann cells of the vestibulocochlear nerve, causing unilateral hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance disturbance.

A cerebral aneurysm is a focal bulge in the wall of a brain artery that risks catastrophic rupture causing subarachnoid hemorrhage, a life-threatening medical emergency.

Intracerebral hemorrhage is bleeding from a vessel into brain tissue and is a form of hemorrhagic stroke. Emergency care is needed to establish its location, cause and complications. Symptoms alone cannot distinguish it from an ischemic stroke.

Brain tumors are abnormal cell growths in the brain or surrounding tissues. They may originate there or spread from another organ and may be benign or malignant. Type, location and molecular features guide assessment and treatment.

Bladder stones are mineral deposits that often form when the bladder does not empty well. They may cause pain, blood in urine or recurrent infections. Care addresses both the stone and its underlying cause.

Acute pyelonephritis is a bacterial infection that usually ascends from the bladder to the kidney, more dangerous than a simple bladder infection. Its signs are high fever, chills, and flank pain with urinary symptoms. It requires prompt treatment with antibiotics to prevent serious complications. It is more common in women, and some cases need hospital care.

Male urinary incontinence is unintentional leakage associated with exertion, urgency or poor bladder emptying. Identifying the type matters because exercises, medicines and surgery are not interchangeable treatments.

Hematuria means red blood cells in urine, visible or detected only by testing. Visible blood needs assessment even after a single painless episode, although it does not necessarily mean cancer.

Acute urinary retention is the sudden complete inability to void despite a full bladder, causing severe suprapubic pain and requiring immediate catheterization to relieve bladder distension.

Testicular torsion is a very urgent emergency in which the spermatic cord twists, cutting off blood flow to the testicle, and may lead to its loss within hours. Its sign is sudden severe testicular pain with swelling and nausea, often in adolescents. Every minute matters: surgical intervention within a few hours saves the testicle. Any sudden severe testicular pain is an emergency.

A hydrocele is fluid around a testicle causing scrotal swelling, often without pain. New swelling needs assessment; sudden severe pain is an emergency and should not automatically be attributed to a hydrocele.

A varicocele is dilation and enlargement of the veins inside the scrotum (similar to leg varicose veins), common and often on the left side. Many are symptomless, and it may cause heaviness or mild pain that increases with prolonged standing, and sometimes affects fertility. Not all need treatment; intervention is used for pain, affected fertility, or poor testicular growth in adolescents.

Prostatitis is inflammation or irritation of the prostate gland in men, causing pelvic and perineal pain, urinary symptoms, and sometimes pain on ejaculation. It has acute (bacterial, possibly severe) and chronic types. Treatment differs by type, from antibiotics to symptom-relieving medications, and it is not linked to prostate cancer.

Ureteral stones are stones that move from the kidney to the ureter (the tube between the kidney and bladder), blocking it and causing very severe renal colic. Their pain comes in waves in the flank radiating downward, with nausea and blood in the urine. Small stones may pass on their own with drinking water, while large or obstructing ones need fragmentation or a procedure.

Erectile dysfunction is the persistent inability to achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for sexual intercourse, caused by vascular, neurological, hormonal, or psychological factors. Treatment includes phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors such as sildenafil or tadalafil, injections, lifestyle modifications, or penile implants, with consultation from a urologist to determine the underlying cause.

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common bacterial infection affecting any part of the urinary system, causing pain, burning on urination, and urinary urgency.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland causing bothersome urinary symptoms in aging men.

Syphilis is a treatable bacterial infection with symptomatic and symptom-free stages. A disappearing ulcer does not mean cure. Early diagnosis is especially important during pregnancy to protect the fetus.

Chlamydia is the most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection worldwide, often asymptomatic, making routine screening essential to prevent serious complications.

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted bacterial infection affecting genital, rectal or throat sites, sometimes without symptoms. Correct antibiotics and partner assessment help prevent complications and reinfection.

Meningitis is inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and may be a serious life-threatening bacterial type or a milder viral one. Its characteristic signs are fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, and light sensitivity. The bacterial type is an emergency needing antibiotics immediately, and vaccines protect against important types of it.

Traveler's diarrhea is a common digestive disorder affecting travelers to areas with different sanitation standards, due to food or water contaminated with germs. Its symptoms are diarrhea, cramps, and nausea. Most cases improve within days with hydration, and prevention is through caution in choosing food and water.

Dengue fever is a viral infection carried by Aedes mosquitoes, causing sudden high fever, severe headache, joint and muscle pain, and a rash. Most cases recover with supportive care, but some progress to dangerous severe dengue. Prevention is through mosquito control and avoiding bites.

Malaria is a serious parasitic disease transmitted by the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito, causing attacks of fever, chills, and sweating. It is common in tropical regions and affects travelers to them. Early diagnosis and treatment are very important, with prevention through mosquito control and preventive medicines for travelers.

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection transmitted through food and water contaminated with Salmonella Typhi, causing a high, progressively rising fever, abdominal pain, and fatigue. It needs antibiotic treatment, with prevention through hygiene, safe water, and vaccination for travelers to endemic areas.

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that attacks immune-system cells and gradually weakens them, and may progress to AIDS if untreated. It spreads through blood, sexual contact, and childbirth, not casual contact. Modern antiretroviral therapy enables a normal life and prevents transmission.

Malnutrition reflects inadequate or imbalanced nutritional needs; this page focuses on undernutrition. It can occur at a higher body weight and requires assessment of cause, intake and function rather than appearance alone.

Tube feeding delivers nutrition into the digestive tract when oral intake is insufficient or swallowing is unsafe. It is a treatment, not a disease, and requires selection, training and monitoring by the nutrition and care team.

Laryngeal papilloma is a usually benign HPV-associated growth that can recur and affect voice or breathing. Progressive hoarseness or noisy breathing needs assessment; benign tissue can still obstruct the airway.

Vocal-fold nodules are benign callus-like lesions often related to repeated vocal strain. They cause hoarseness and fatigue and require laryngeal examination for diagnosis. Voice therapy and habit changes are central for many patients.

Persistent hoarseness is a voice change that may reflect strain, inflammation or a vocal-fold lesion. Arrange assessment if it lasts about three weeks, and sooner with breathing or swallowing difficulty or a neck lump.

Dysgeusia changes how food tastes, sometimes making it metallic, bitter or unfamiliar. Smell problems or dry mouth may contribute. Persistent symptoms or effects on intake and weight warrant evaluation.

Anosmia is the complete or partial loss of the sense of smell, which may result from upper respiratory infections (notably COVID-19), sinonasal disease, head trauma, or neurodegenerative conditions.

Epistaxis (nosebleed) is bleeding from the nose, which is very common and usually minor, stopping with correct home first aid. Most of it is anterior, due to dryness, picking, or dry air. The correct first aid is leaning the head forward and pinching the soft part of the nose. Heavy or recurrent bleeding needs medical evaluation.

A deviated nasal septum is a tilt of the partition between the two nostrils away from the center, narrowing the passage on one or both sides. It is very common and much of it is mild and symptomless. It may cause chronic nasal blockage (often on one side), difficulty breathing, snoring, and recurrent sinus infections. Bothersome cases are treated with medications for symptoms, and sometimes surgery to straighten the septum.

Nasal polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths that grow in the lining of the nose and sinuses due to chronic inflammation, causing persistent nasal blockage, reduced sense of smell, and a runny nose. They are often associated with allergy, asthma, and chronic sinusitis. They are treated with medications (often corticosteroid sprays) and sometimes surgery, with a tendency to recur requiring follow-up.

Chronic nasal congestion is a symptom with causes including allergy, nonallergic inflammation, polyps and structural problems. Effective care starts by identifying the cause, not indefinitely continuing a decongestant spray.

Laryngitis is inflammation of the voice box (larynx) and vocal cords, often due to a viral infection or voice strain, causing hoarseness or loss of voice, throat pain, and a dry cough. Most of it is acute and recovers on its own with resting the voice and fluids. Hoarseness lasting more than two weeks requires evaluation to exclude other causes.

Viral pharyngitis is a common cause of sore throat and usually improves within about a week with supportive care. Antibiotics do not treat viruses, but breathing or swallowing difficulty and deterioration require assessment for other causes.

Strep throat is a bacterial throat infection caused by streptococcus bacteria, most common in children. Its signs are sudden severe throat pain on swallowing, fever, and swollen tonsils, often without a cough. It needs an antibiotic after confirming the diagnosis to prevent complications such as rheumatic fever. Not every sore throat is strep; most are viral.

Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils, usually due to a viral or bacterial infection, causing sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and fever. Most cases are viral and improve with supportive care, while bacterial ones need an antibiotic. Tonsillectomy is considered when severe inflammation recurs.

Otitis media is an infection of the middle ear space behind the eardrum causing severe pain and fever, particularly in children. Treatment includes pain relief medications and antibiotics when needed, with some cases requiring surgical ventilation tubes.

Allergic rhinitis is an allergic reaction causing sneezing, congestion, and runny nose from pollen, dust, or other triggers. Treatment includes antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and immunotherapy, with improvement through trigger avoidance.

Sinusitis is inflammation of the tissues lining the sinuses around the nose, causing headaches and thick nasal discharge. Treatment includes saline rinses, nasal corticosteroids, and antibiotics when needed.

Color blindness (color vision deficiency) is difficulty distinguishing certain colors, most famously red and green, often hereditary and more common in males. It is not true blindness but a defect in color perception. There is no cure for most hereditary types, but assistive tools and awareness of the condition ease coping. Early detection benefits children in learning.

Acute angle-closure glaucoma is a sudden spike in intraocular pressure from blocked aqueous outflow causing severe eye pain, blurred vision, halos, and nausea — an ocular emergency requiring treatment within hours to prevent permanent blindness.

Uveitis is inflammation inside the eye that may affect the front, including the iris, or deeper structures. Pain, light sensitivity, floaters or visual change need prompt eye assessment because delayed care can threaten sight.

A chalazion is an eyelid lump usually caused by a blocked oil gland and localized inflammation. It is generally less painful than a stye and may gradually resolve. Persistent or recurrent lumps need examination.

A stye, or hordeolum, is a small painful eyelid lump usually caused by an infected gland or eyelash follicle. Many improve with simple care, but reduced vision or spreading swelling needs urgent assessment.

Blepharitis is a chronic inflammatory condition of the eyelid margins causing redness, irritation, crusting, and burning eyes, managed primarily through consistent daily eyelid hygiene.

Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, so light scatters and vision becomes blurry or distorted at all distances. It causes eye strain and headache. It is corrected with glasses, contacts, or laser surgery, and often accompanies myopia or hyperopia.

Hyperopia (farsightedness) is a common refractive error in which distant objects are seen more clearly than near ones, because light focuses behind the retina as the eye is shorter than normal. It causes eye strain and headache when reading. It is corrected with glasses, contacts, or laser surgery for suitable adults.

Myopia (nearsightedness) is a common refractive error in which near objects are seen clearly while distant ones look blurry, because light focuses in front of the retina. It is corrected with glasses, contacts, or laser surgery, and is rising worldwide, especially among children.

Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is inflammation of the clear membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner eyelid, causing redness, tearing, and discharge. Its types are viral, bacterial, and allergic; most are mild and improve within days, with hygiene important to prevent the often highly contagious infection.

Dry eye disease occurs when the eyes don't produce enough tears or the tears are poor quality, causing burning, redness, and blurred vision. Treatment includes eye drops, topical medications, and lifestyle modifications.

Cataract is a gradual clouding of the eye's lens causing blurry vision and reduced night vision, especially with age. It is treated safely through surgery to remove the clouded lens and implant an artificial lens, with multiple options tailored to patient needs.

Glaucoma is an eye condition where increased intraocular pressure damages the optic nerve gradually, causing progressive vision loss and potential blindness if untreated. It is managed with eye drops, laser therapy, and surgery to reduce pressure.

Keratitis affects the clear front surface of the eye and may be infectious or noninfectious. Pain and redness with light sensitivity or blurred vision, especially with contact lenses, require urgent eye assessment to protect sight.

Keratoconus is a disease in which the cornea progressively thins and bulges forward into a cone shape, gradually distorting vision. It is relatively common in our region and begins in the teenage years. It is managed with special lenses and corneal cross-linking to halt progression, and corneal transplant in advanced cases.

Lazy eye (amblyopia) is a weakness in the vision of one eye (or rarely both) that develops in early childhood because the brain does not receive a clear image from it and ignores it. Its most common causes are strabismus and a difference in vision between the eyes. It is not corrected by glasses alone. Early detection and treatment (patching the healthy eye, glasses) are critical before the development of vision is complete.

Strabismus is a misalignment of the eyes so that they do not look in the same direction, with one deviating inward, outward, up, or down. It is common in children and may, if neglected, lead to lazy eye and permanent vision weakness. Early detection and treatment (glasses, exercises, patching, or surgery) are very important, especially in early childhood.

Retinal detachment is an eye emergency in which the retina (the sensitive vision layer) separates from its place at the back of the eye, losing its nourishment and possibly being permanently damaged. Its warning signs are flashes of light, a sudden increase in floaters, and a curtain or shadow blocking part of vision. It requires urgent evaluation and often prompt surgery to save sight.

Diabetic retinopathy is damage to the small blood vessels in the retina caused by chronic high blood sugar, potentially leading to vision loss if untreated. Treatment includes blood sugar control, laser therapy, and eye injections.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye disease causing central vision loss due to degeneration of the macula. The wet form is treated with anti-VEGF injections like ranibizumab and aflibercept to slow disease progression.

Aphthous ulcers (mouth ulcers/canker sores) are small, painful white or yellow sores surrounded by a red halo that appear inside the mouth, very common, not contagious, and not dangerous. They disappear on their own within days to two weeks. Their causes are multiple, such as stress, deficiency of some vitamins, and injuries. Topical treatments to relieve pain are available, and severe recurrence deserves evaluation.

Dental caries is a gradual breakdown of the tooth layers caused by acids from bacteria digesting sugars, starting as a spot then a cavity that may reach the nerve causing pain and infection. It is among the most common diseases and is preventable through brushing, fluoride, reducing sugar, and regular checkups.

Spinal muscular atrophy is a genetic disorder affecting motor neurons and causing variable muscle weakness. It can begin in infancy or later and needs early diagnosis, treatment planning and support for breathing, nutrition and mobility.

Ovarian cancer includes tumors with different types, stages and treatments. Persistent bloating, early fullness or pelvic pain warrants assessment, particularly when new or recurrent, although these symptoms alone do not establish cancer.

Cervical cancer is a malignant tumor arising from cervical cells, closely linked to HPV infection, and largely preventable through vaccination and regular screening.

Endometrial cancer begins in the womb’s inner lining and often presents with unusual bleeding or bleeding after menopause. Early evaluation matters. Treatment depends on tumour type, stage and biological characteristics.

Congenital heart disease describes structural differences in the heart or blood vessels present from birth, ranging from simple to complex. Not every defect needs surgery, but some require early intervention and long-term follow-up.

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory reaction that can follow group A streptococcal infection, affecting the heart, joints and sometimes the nervous system and skin. Diagnosis, treatment and recurrence prevention help protect cardiac health.

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome is a possible complication of ovarian stimulation medicines, ranging from mild bloating to serious fluid imbalance. Increasing pain, reduced urination or breathlessness needs prompt medical contact.

Unexplained infertility means that appropriate initial evaluation of both partners has not identified a clear cause. It does not mean the problem is imagined or pregnancy is impossible. Age, duration, results and preferences guide next steps.

Infertility is the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular unprotected intercourse (or 6 months for women over 35). Affecting 10-15% of couples, it may involve male, female, or combined factors. Treatment options include medications, ICSI, and IVF.

Uterine prolapse is descent of the uterus into the vagina when pelvic support weakens. Management may involve observation, physiotherapy, a vaginal pessary or surgery according to symptoms and the patient’s preferences.

Seasonal allergies (hay fever) are an allergic reaction occurring in certain seasons to pollen from trees and grasses, causing sneezing, a runny and congested nose, itching, and watery eyes. They are very common and not contagious. They are relieved by avoiding triggers as much as possible and allergy medications (antihistamines and nasal sprays), and sometimes immunotherapy for severe cases.

Newborn jaundice is yellowing of the skin and eyes due to a high level of bilirubin in the blood; it is very common and usually physiological, resolving within days. Most cases are mild, but a severe rise needs phototherapy to avoid brain complications, so follow-up is important.

Alopecia areata is a chronic autoimmune condition causing sudden hair loss in round patches due to immune system attacking hair follicles. Treatment includes topical and injected corticosteroids, with JAK inhibitors prescribed for extensive cases.

Androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness) is progressive hair loss caused by genetic predisposition and hair follicle sensitivity to DHT hormone. Treatment options include topical and oral medications, advanced procedures like PRP, or hair transplantation.

Gingivitis and periodontitis are chronic inflammatory diseases affecting the gums and tooth-supporting tissues, causing redness, swelling, and potential tooth loss. Treatment includes improved oral hygiene, professional scaling, antibiotics, and surgery in advanced cases.

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures due to abnormal brain electrical activity. It is treated with antiepileptic medications that control seizures in approximately 75% of patients with a single drug.