Spina bifida is a congenital condition that occurs when the spine and spinal cord do not form properly during fetal development. It is a type of neural tube defect (NTD) that affects the structure of the spine and spinal cord, resulting in a range of symptoms and disabilities. In this article, we will delve into the causes, risk factors, symptoms, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of spina bifida, as well as when to seek medical attention.
A spinal arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is a rare and complex condition that affects the blood vessels in the spinal cord. It is a tangle of abnormal blood vessels that connects arteries and veins, disrupting the normal flow of blood and oxygen to the spinal cord. Without proper treatment, this condition can cause significant damage to the spinal cord, leading to long-term consequences.
A spinal cord injury is a life-altering condition that affects the functioning of the body below the site of the injury. The spinal cord is a complex structure that plays a vital role in sending and receiving signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When damaged, the spinal cord can cause permanent changes in strength, sensation, and bodily functions, leading to significant disability and impairment.
A spinal tumor is a growth that develops within the spinal canal or within the bones of the spine. Spinal cord tumors, also known as intradural tumors, are a type of spinal tumor that begins within the spinal cord or the covering of the spinal cord (dura). Vertebral tumors, on the other hand, affect the bones of the spine (vertebrae). Spinal cord tumors can be classified into three main types based on their location relative to the protective membranes of the spinal cord.
Spinal headaches are a common complication that can occur following a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) or spinal anesthesia. Both procedures involve a puncture of the membrane that surrounds the spinal cord and, in the lower spine, the lumbar and sacral nerve roots. During a spinal tap, a sample of cerebrospinal fluid is withdrawn from the spinal canal. During spinal anesthesia, medication is injected into the spinal canal to numb the nerves in the lower half of the body. If spinal fluid leaks through the tiny puncture site, you may develop a spinal headache.
Spinal stenosis is a condition where the space inside the backbone is too small, causing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves that travel through the spine. This condition can occur in the lower back or neck, and it can cause a range of symptoms, including pain, numbness, and weakness. In some cases, spinal stenosis can be a result of wear-and-tear damage in the spine related to arthritis, while in other cases, it may be caused by other conditions such as spinal degeneration or trauma.
Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a rare and emergency condition that occurs when a tear forms in the wall of a heart artery, also known as a coronary artery. This sudden and unpredictable event can cause significant damage to the heart, leading to a heart attack, heart rhythm problems, or even sudden death. SCAD is often referred to as a "silent killer" because it can occur without any warning signs or risk factors, making it a crucial condition to understand and recognize.
A sprained ankle is a common injury that occurs when the ligaments in the ankle joint are stretched or torn, often due to a sudden or awkward movement. The ligaments play a crucial role in stabilizing the ankle joint, preventing excessive movement and allowing for smooth movement. When the ligaments are forced beyond their normal range of motion, they can become stretched or torn, leading to a sprained ankle.
A sprain is a stretching or tearing of ligaments, which are the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect two bones together in your joints. The most common location for a sprain is in the ankle, but it can occur in other joints such as the wrist, knee, or elbow. A sprain is a common and painful injury that can occur due to various reasons, including sudden movements, twisting, or falling.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the skin is a type of cancer that starts as a growth of cells on the skin. It is a common and treatable form of skin cancer that affects millions of people worldwide. Squamous cell carcinoma is a slow-growing cancer that can develop in the skin cells called squamous cells, which make up the middle and outer layers of the skin.
Staph infections are caused by staphylococcus bacteria, which are commonly found on the skin or in the nose of many healthy people. These bacteria can cause minor skin infections, but if they invade deeper into the body, they can turn deadly. Staph infections can occur in anyone, regardless of age, health, or lifestyle. The good news is that with proper treatment and prevention, most staph infections can be managed effectively.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare and serious disorder of the skin and mucous membranes that affects approximately 1-2 people per million per year. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention and hospitalization. SJS is characterized by a severe reaction to medication, typically antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, or anticonvulsants, which leads to a painful rash, blistering, and peeling of the skin. The symptoms of SJS can be devastating, and the condition can have long-term consequences.
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when abnormal cells grow in the stomach. The stomach is a muscular sac that plays a vital role in digestion and absorption of nutrients. It is a common type of cancer worldwide, but its incidence has been declining in recent years due to improved food preservation and storage techniques.
Strep throat is a bacterial infection that affects the throat and can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. It is caused by the bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes, which is highly contagious and can spread quickly through direct contact with an infected person. Strep throat is most common in children, but it can affect people of all ages.
Stress fractures are tiny cracks in a bone that occur when the bone is subjected to repetitive stress or force. They are often caused by overuse or repetitive strain, and can occur in any bone, but are most common in the weight-bearing bones of the lower leg and foot. Stress fractures can be caused by a variety of factors, including repetitive exercise, sports injuries, or even normal use of a bone that is weakened by a condition such as osteoporosis.
Urinary incontinence is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the loss of bladder control, leading to involuntary leakage of urine. Stress incontinence is a type of urinary incontinence that occurs when physical activity or movement puts pressure on the bladder, causing urine to leak. This type of incontinence is not related to mental stress, but rather to physical activity that causes the bladder muscles to weaken.
Stretch marks, also known as striae, are indented streaks that appear on the skin, typically on the abdomen, breasts, hips, buttocks, or other areas of the body. These marks are common in pregnant women, especially during the last trimester of pregnancy. While stretch marks are not painful or harmful, they can be unsightly and affect a person's self-esteem. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options for stretch marks.
A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted or reduced, resulting in damage to brain cells. This can lead to a range of physical, emotional, and cognitive impairments, and even death. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options for stroke.
Stuttering is a speech disorder that affects the normal flow of speech, causing disruptions and difficulties for the speaker. It is also known as stammering or childhood-onset fluency disorder. Stuttering is a common condition that affects people of all ages, but it is more prevalent in children and can persist into adulthood.
A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a red, painful lump that forms on the edge of the eyelid, often filled with pus. It is a common condition that can be caused by a bacterial infection, inflammation, or blockage of the oil glands in the eyelid. Styes are typically harmless and can resolve on their own within a few days, but they can be painful and uncomfortable.
A subarachnoid hemorrhage is a type of bleeding that occurs in the space between the brain and the surrounding membrane (subarachnoid space). This bleeding can be caused by various factors, including an irregular bulge in a blood vessel (aneurysm), trauma, a tangle of blood vessels in the brain (arteriovenous malformation), or other blood vessel or health problems. The primary symptom of a subarachnoid hemorrhage is a sudden, severe headache, which can be accompanied by nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, problems with vision, and brief loss of consciousness.
Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a life-threatening condition that occurs when the heart suddenly stops beating due to an irregular heart rhythm. This can happen to anyone, regardless of age or health status, and can be fatal if not treated promptly. SCA is different from a heart attack, which occurs when blood flow to the heart is blocked. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, prevention, complications, diagnosis and evaluation, treatment and management, and when to see a doctor for SCA.
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden and unexplained death of an infant, typically under one year old. It is often referred to as crib death because many of these deaths occur while the infant is sleeping in their crib. Despite extensive research, the exact cause of SIDS remains unknown, but it is believed to be related to problems in the area of the infant's brain that controls breathing and waking up from sleep.
Sun allergy is a broad term that describes several conditions that cause an itchy rash to form on the skin after being in sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. While some people may be more prone to developing sun allergy due to their genetic makeup, others may develop symptoms only when triggered by another factor.
Sunburn is a common condition that occurs when the skin is exposed to too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or other sources. It is characterized by inflamed, painful skin that feels hot to the touch. Sunburn can occur in anyone, regardless of age, skin type, or location. In fact, it is estimated that over 50% of Americans will experience sunburn each year.
Breast tissue is a complex and dynamic system that can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes, genetics, and lifestyle. As a result, breast tissue can exhibit a range of textures and sensations, including lumpiness and tenderness. However, if you notice any unusual changes in your breast tissue, it is essential to seek medical attention to rule out any potential health issues.
Sweating and body odor are common experiences that many people encounter, especially during exercise or in hot weather. However, unusual changes in sweating or body odor can be a sign of an underlying health issue. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment options for sweating and body odor.
Swimmer's ear, also known as otitis externa, is a common infection that affects the outer ear canal. It's often caused by bacteria that thrive in moist environments, making it a common problem for people who enjoy swimming or engage in activities that involve water. In this article, we'll delve into the causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options for swimmer's ear.
Swimmer's itch, also known as cercarial dermatitis, is a common condition that affects many people who enjoy swimming or wading in outdoor bodies of water. It's a rash that typically occurs after exposure to certain parasites found in freshwater lakes and ponds, although it can also occur in saltwater. In this article, we'll delve into the causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options for swimmer's itch.
A swollen knee occurs when excess fluid collects in or around the knee joint, leading to a range of symptoms and discomfort. Also known as an effusion, this condition can be caused by various factors, including trauma, overuse injuries, or underlying diseases or conditions. In this article, we'll delve into the causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options for a swollen knee.
Swollen lymph nodes, also known as lymphadenitis, are a common condition that occurs when the lymph nodes become inflamed or swollen. The lymph nodes play a vital role in our body's immune system, filtering out viruses, bacteria, and other foreign substances that enter the body. In this article, we'll delve into the causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and treatment options for swollen lymph nodes.
Synovial sarcoma is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that typically occurs near large joints, particularly the knees. It is a soft tissue sarcoma that affects the synovial tissue, which is the lining of the joints. Synovial sarcoma usually affects young adults, and it is more common in men than women.
Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is spread through sexual contact, typically affecting the genitals, rectum, or mouth. It is a serious disease that can cause significant damage to the body if left untreated. Syphilis is a reportable disease, meaning that healthcare providers are required to report cases to public health authorities.
Syringomyelia is a rare condition characterized by the development of a fluid-filled cyst within the spinal cord. The cyst, also known as a syrinx, can grow larger over time and cause damage to the spinal cord, leading to pain, weakness, and stiffness.
Systemic mastocytosis is a rare disorder characterized by the accumulation of excessive mast cells in various tissues and organs throughout the body. Mast cells are an important part of the immune system, playing a crucial role in protecting against disease and infection. However, when too many mast cells build up, it can lead to a range of symptoms and complications.
Tachycardia, or a heart rate over 100 beats per minute, is a common medical condition that can be caused by various types of irregular heart rhythms, known as arrhythmias. While a fast heart rate may not always be a concern, it can be a warning sign of a underlying medical condition that needs attention. In some cases, tachycardia can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.
Takayasu's arteritis is a rare and complex type of vasculitis, a group of disorders that causes inflammation in the blood vessels. The disease specifically affects the aorta, the large artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body, and its main branches. Inflammation can lead to damage, narrowing or blockage of the arteries, and weakened artery walls that may bulge or tear.
Tapeworms are parasitic worms that can live and feed in the human intestines, causing a range of symptoms and complications. Tapeworm infections are more common in areas where food and water are contaminated with the parasite's eggs or larvae. In this article, we will delve into the different types of tapeworm infections, their causes, risk factors, symptoms, prevention, complications, diagnosis, treatment, and management.
Tay-Sachs disease is a rare genetic disorder that is passed from parents to child. It is caused by the absence of an enzyme that helps break down fatty substances, known as gangliosides, in the brain and spinal cord. The absence of this enzyme leads to the accumulation of toxic levels of gangliosides, which affects the function of nerve cells.
Teen depression is a serious mental health problem that affects millions of teenagers worldwide. It is a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in activities that can cause emotional, functional, and physical problems. Teen depression is not just a normal part of adolescence, but rather a serious condition that requires attention and treatment.
Temporal lobe seizures are a type of seizure that begins in the temporal lobes of the brain. These areas are responsible for processing emotions and are important for short-term memory. Symptoms of a temporal lobe seizure may be related to these functions, and can include feelings of joy, deja vu, or fear. In some cases, people may remain aware of what's happening during the seizure, while in others, they may appear to be unaware of their surroundings.
Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a rare, life-threatening skin reaction that occurs in response to certain medications. It is a severe form of Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), and is characterized by extensive damage to the skin and mucous membranes. TEN is a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention, and can be fatal if left untreated.
Tendinitis is a common condition that affects the tendons, which are the thick fibrous cords that attach muscles to bones. The condition causes pain and tenderness just outside a joint, making it difficult to move or perform daily activities. Tendinitis can occur in any tendon, but it's most common around the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees, and heels.
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that can result from overuse of the muscles and tendons in the elbow. Despite its name, most people who get tennis elbow don't play tennis. Instead, it's often linked to repeated motions of the wrist and arm, which can occur in various occupations or activities.
Tension-type headaches are the most common type of headache, affecting millions of people worldwide. Despite their prevalence, the causes of tension-type headaches are not well understood. However, it's clear that a combination of physical, emotional, and environmental factors contribute to the development of these headaches.
Testicular cancer is a rare and complex disease that affects the testicles, which are responsible for producing sperm and the hormone testosterone. The cancerous cells can grow rapidly and spread to other parts of the body, making it essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
Testicular torsion is a medical emergency that occurs when the spermatic cord, which brings blood to the testicle, twists and reduces blood flow to the testicle. This can cause sudden and severe pain, swelling, and even loss of the testicle. It is essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options to prevent long-term damage and ensure prompt treatment.
Tetanus is a serious and potentially life-threatening disease caused by the bacterium Clostridium tetani. The disease is characterized by severe muscle contractions, particularly in the jaw and neck muscles, which can lead to respiratory failure, paralysis, and even death. There is no cure for tetanus, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications until the effects of the tetanus toxin resolve.
Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is a rare and complex congenital heart defect that is present at birth. It is characterized by four distinct heart problems that affect the structure and function of the heart. The condition is often diagnosed during pregnancy or soon after a baby is born, but it can also be detected in adulthood if the symptoms are mild.
Thalassemia is a genetic disorder that affects the production of hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to different parts of the body. It is characterized by an inherited mutation that leads to reduced or absent hemoglobin production, resulting in anemia and fatigue.
A thoracic aortic aneurysm is a weakened area in the body's main artery in the chest, which can lead to a life-threatening condition. The aorta is the main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. When the aortic wall is weak, the artery may widen, and if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications.
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a group of conditions that occur when there is pressure on the blood vessels or nerves in the area between the neck and shoulder. This space is known as the thoracic outlet. Compression of the blood vessels and nerves can cause shoulder and neck pain, numbness in the fingers, and other symptoms.
Throat cancer, also known as pharyngeal cancer or laryngeal cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the throat (pharynx) or voice box (larynx). The throat is a muscular tube that begins behind the nose and ends in the neck, and the voice box is a cartilaginous structure that contains the vocal cords. Throat cancer typically begins in the flat cells that line the inside of the throat.
Thrombocytopenia is a condition characterized by a low platelet count, which can lead to bleeding problems. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are colorless blood cells that play a crucial role in blood clotting. They help stop bleeding by clumping and forming plugs in blood vessel injuries. Thrombocytopenia can occur due to various reasons, including bone marrow disorders, immune system problems, and medication side effects.
Thrombocytosis is a condition characterized by an excessive production of platelets in the body. Platelets, also known as thrombocytes, are essential for blood clotting and wound healing. However, when there is an overproduction of platelets, it can lead to various complications and health issues. Thrombocytosis can be classified into two main categories: reactive thrombocytosis and primary thrombocytosis.
Thrombophlebitis is a condition that occurs when a blood clot forms and blocks one or more veins, usually in the legs. The affected vein can be near the surface of the skin (superficial thrombophlebitis) or deep within a muscle (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT). Both types of thrombophlebitis can be treated with blood-thinning medications, but it is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
Thumb arthritis is a common condition that occurs when cartilage wears away from the ends of the bones that form the joint at the base of the thumb. This condition is also known as carpometacarpal (CMC) joint arthritis. Thumb arthritis can cause severe pain, swelling, and decreased strength and range of motion, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies for thumb arthritis.
Thunderclap headaches are a rare and severe type of headache that can strike suddenly, without warning. They are characterized by a sudden and intense headache that peaks within 60 seconds. Thunderclap headaches are often referred to as "thunderclaps" because of their sudden and intense nature, similar to the sound of a clap of thunder.
Thyroid cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the thyroid gland, a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of the neck. The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and weight. Thyroid cancer can be a serious condition, but it is often treatable if detected early.
The thyroid gland is located at the base of the neck, just below the Adam's apple. It is a vital gland that produces hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including metabolism, growth, and development. Thyroid nodules are small growths that can develop on the thyroid gland, and they are relatively common. In most cases, thyroid nodules are not serious and do not cause symptoms. However, in some cases, they can become large enough to cause problems or even be cancerous.
Tinea versicolor is a common fungal infection of the skin, also known as pityriasis versicolor. It is a type of superficial fungal infection that affects the skin, causing small, discolored patches. The fungus, Malassezia, interferes with the normal pigmentation of the skin, resulting in patches that may be lighter or darker in color than the surrounding skin. Tinea versicolor is a mild condition that is often treated with antifungal medications.
Tinnitus is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the perception of ringing or other noises in one or both ears, without any external sound source. Tinnitus is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition, such as age-related hearing loss, ear injury, or a problem with the circulatory system. The noise can be constant or intermittent, and can vary in pitch and volume.
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is a vital structure that connects the jawbone to the skull, allowing for the movement of the jaw. It is a complex joint that relies on a delicate balance of muscles, bones, and soft tissues to function properly. TMJ disorders, also known as temporomandibular disorders (TMD), are a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. TMD is characterized by pain and discomfort in the jaw joint and the muscles that control jaw movement.
Toe walking, also known as toe walking or walking on the toes, is a common condition in children where they walk on their toes or the balls of their feet instead of their heels. In most cases, toe walking is a normal part of a child's development and is usually outgrown by the toddler years. However, in some cases, toe walking can be a sign of an underlying condition or disorder.
Tongue cancer is a type of cancer that starts as a growth of cells on the tongue. The tongue is a vital organ that plays a crucial role in our daily lives, enabling us to speak, eat, and swallow. Tongue cancer can occur in the mouth or the throat, and it is essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for this condition.
Tongue-tie, also known as ankyloglossia, is a condition that is present at birth and restricts the tongue's range of motion. It occurs when an unusually short, thick, or tight band of tissue (lingual frenulum) tethers the bottom of the tongue's tip to the floor of the mouth. This can interfere with breastfeeding, eating, and speaking.
A tonic-clonic seizure, previously known as a grand mal seizure, is a type of seizure that is characterized by a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions. It is the most common type of seizure that people picture when they think about seizures. During a seizure, there is a burst of electrical activity in the brain that causes changes in behavior and movements.
Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils, two oval-shaped pads of tissue located at the back of the throat. It is a common condition that affects both children and adults. The symptoms of tonsillitis include swollen tonsils, a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and tender lymph nodes on the sides of the neck.
A tooth abscess is a pocket of pus that develops as a result of a bacterial infection. It is a common dental condition that can occur at different areas near the tooth, including the tip of the root, the gums, and the surrounding tissues. A periapical tooth abscess occurs at the tip of the root and is typically caused by an untreated dental cavity, injury, or prior dental work.
A torn meniscus is a common knee injury that can occur due to a sudden twisting or rotating movement of the knee. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the shinbone and thighbone, allowing for smooth movement of the knee joint. When the meniscus is torn, it can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited mobility in the affected knee.
Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder that affects approximately 1 in 160 children and adolescents worldwide. It is characterized by repetitive movements or unwanted sounds, known as tics, that can be vocal or motor. Tics can vary in frequency and severity, and can be influenced by emotional states, stress, and sensory stimuli.
Toxic hepatitis is a type of liver inflammation that occurs as a reaction to certain substances or toxins. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including alcohol, chemicals, drugs, and nutritional supplements. The symptoms of toxic hepatitis can vary in severity and may include fever, fatigue, loss of appetite, and nausea. In some cases, toxic hepatitis can lead to permanent liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver failure.
Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare and life-threatening condition that occurs when toxins produced by certain types of bacteria enter the bloodstream and cause widespread inflammation. TSS is a serious medical emergency that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications and death.
Toxoplasmosis is an infection caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii, which is a common parasite found in many parts of the world. The infection can occur in people of all ages, but it is most serious in infants and people with weakened immune systems. Toxoplasmosis is often acquired through eating undercooked meat or coming into contact with cat feces. In pregnant women, the parasite can pass to the baby during pregnancy, potentially leading to miscarriage and birth defects.
Trachoma is a bacterial infection that affects the eyes, causing inflammation, scarring, and potentially leading to blindness. It is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis and is contagious, spreading through contact with infected people or contaminated items. Trachoma is a significant public health problem, particularly in developing countries where it is the leading cause of preventable blindness.
Transient global amnesia (TGA) is a sudden and temporary episode of confusion that affects memory and cognitive function. During this episode, a person is unable to create new memories, and their past experiences are lost. TGA is a rare condition that is not caused by a more common neurological condition, such as epilepsy or stroke.
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) is a brief episode of neurological symptoms, similar to those of a stroke, caused by a temporary blockage of blood flow to the brain. Also known as a ministroke, a TIA is often a warning sign of a future stroke, and it is essential to seek medical attention immediately to prevent long-term damage.
Transverse myelitis is a rare and complex neurological disorder that affects the spinal cord, causing inflammation and damage to the insulating material covering nerve cell fibers (myelin). This inflammation can interrupt the messages that the spinal cord nerves send throughout the body, leading to a range of symptoms including pain, muscle weakness, paralysis, sensory problems, and bladder and bowel dysfunction.
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the brain is injured as a result of a violent blow or jolt to the head or body. The injury can also occur when an object goes through brain tissue, such as a bullet or shattered piece of skull. TBI can range from mild to severe, and its effects can be long-lasting and debilitating.
Traveler's diarrhea is a common and often unpleasant digestive tract disorder that occurs when you eat or drink contaminated food or water while traveling. It is characterized by loose stools and stomach cramps, and can be caused by a variety of factors, including poor hygiene, contaminated food and water, and bacterial infections.
Trichinosis, also known as trichinellosis, is a type of roundworm infection caused by the parasitic worm Trichinella. These worms infect animals such as bears, cougars, walruses, foxes, wild boars, and domestic pigs. Humans can get infected by eating raw or undercooked meat containing the immature form of the roundworm (larvae).
Trichomoniasis is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the parasitic protozoan Trichomonas vaginalis. It is estimated that over 170 million people worldwide are infected with trichomoniasis, with the majority of cases affecting women. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, prevention, and treatment of trichomoniasis, as well as provide guidance on when to see a doctor.
Trichotillomania, also known as hair-pulling disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by the recurring and irresistible urges to pull out hair from the scalp, eyebrows, or other areas of the body. This condition is part of a group of disorders known as body-focused repetitive behaviors (BFRBs). Trichotillomania can have a significant impact on an individual's daily life, causing distress, anxiety, and feelings of shame.
Trigeminal neuralgia is a chronic pain condition that affects the trigeminal nerve, which carries signals from the face to the brain. It is characterized by intense, electric shock-like pain on one side of the face, which can be triggered by even light touch. This condition is more common in women and people older than 50, and it can have a significant impact on daily life.
Trigger finger is a condition that affects the tendons in the fingers, causing them to become stuck in a bent position. This can be a painful and frustrating experience, but with the right treatment, it is possible to alleviate the symptoms. Trigger finger is more common in women over the age of 50, and it is often associated with conditions such as diabetes, low thyroid function, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Triple X syndrome, also known as trisomy X or 47,XXX, is a rare genetic disorder that affects about 1 in 1,000 females. It is characterized by the presence of three X chromosomes instead of the usual two X chromosomes found in females. Triple X syndrome is not the same as Turner syndrome, which is a separate genetic disorder that affects females with only one X chromosome.
Tuberculosis (TB) is a chronic and potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that primarily affects the lungs. The germs that cause TB are highly contagious and can spread easily through airborne transmission. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), TB is one of the top 10 causes of death worldwide, claiming over 1.7 million lives in 2020.
Tuberous sclerosis (TSC) is a rare genetic disorder that causes noncancerous tumors to develop in various parts of the body. These tumors are benign and not expected to spread or grow aggressively. TSC is often first diagnosed during infancy or childhood, but it can also be diagnosed in adulthood or remain undiagnosed.
Turner syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects only females. It is caused by the absence or partial absence of one of the two X chromosomes in a female's cells. The condition can affect various parts of the body, including the heart, kidneys, and ovaries.
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin. Insulin is a hormone that allows sugar (glucose) to enter cells to produce energy. In type 1 diabetes, the body's immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin, resulting in a deficiency of insulin.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body's ability to regulate and use sugar (glucose) as a fuel is impaired. This results in high blood sugar levels, which can lead to disorders of the circulatory, nervous, and immune systems.
Typhoid fever, also known as enteric fever, is a serious infectious disease caused by salmonella bacteria. It is a rare disease in places where few people carry the bacteria and where water is treated to kill germs and human waste disposal is managed. However, it is a significant health threat in places where it is more common, especially for children.
Ulcerative colitis (UL-sur-uh-tiv koe-LIE-tis) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects the innermost lining of the large intestine, also known as the colon, and rectum. It is characterized by inflammation and ulcers (sores) in the digestive tract, which can lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.
Ulnar wrist pain is a common condition that affects the side of the wrist opposite the thumb. The ulna is one of two forearm bones that connect to the wrist and hand. Wrist pain can vary depending on the cause, but ulnar wrist pain is often linked to injuries or conditions that affect the bones, tendons, and ligaments in this area.
An umbilical hernia occurs when part of the intestine bulges through the opening in the abdominal muscles near the belly button (navel). Umbilical hernias are common and typically harmless, but they can cause discomfort and embarrassment.
Cryptorchidism is a condition where one or both testicles fail to move down into the scrotum before birth. This condition is also known as undescended testicles. Cryptorchidism is more common in premature babies and can be associated with other health issues.
Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS) is a rare type of cancer that begins in the soft tissues of the body. Soft tissues connect, support and surround other body structures. UPS is a type of soft tissue sarcoma that typically occurs in the arms or legs, but can also occur in the retroperitoneum.
Cancer of the ureter is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that affects the tubes (ureters) that connect the kidneys to the bladder. The ureters are part of the urinary tract and carry urine produced by the kidneys to the bladder. Ureteral cancer is uncommon and typically occurs in older adults or people who have previously been treated for bladder cancer.
Ureteral obstruction is a blockage in one or both of the tubes (ureters) that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. This blockage can be caused by various factors such as kidney stones, tumors, and inflammation. Ureteral obstruction is a common condition that can be treated, but if left untreated, it can lead to severe complications.
A urethral stricture is a condition in which scarring narrows the tube that carries urine out of the body (urethra). This can cause problems in the urinary tract, such as infection, and can lead to complications if left untreated.