Urinary incontinence is the loss of bladder control, which can be a frustrating and embarrassing experience. It is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, and it can range from occasional leaking urine when you cough or sneeze to having an urgent need to urinate that's so strong you don't get to a toilet in time.
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that occurs in any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The most common type of UTI is a bacterial infection that affects the lower urinary tract, including the bladder and urethra.
Urine color is a normal bodily function that can vary from clear to pale yellow. However, certain factors can cause changes in urine color, which can be a sign of a underlying health problem or a side effect of medication. In this article, we will explore the normal range of urine color and what can cause abnormal colors.
Uterine fibroids are common growths of the uterus that can affect women of childbearing age. They are not cancerous and are typically benign. Fibroids can vary in size and number, and some may not cause any symptoms. However, larger fibroids can cause discomfort, pain, and heavy bleeding.
Uterine polyps are growths that attach to the inner wall of the uterus and expand into the uterus. These growths are usually noncancerous (benign) but can be cancerous or precancerous. Uterine polyps can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters and can be attached to the uterine wall by a large base or a thin stalk.
Uterine prolapse occurs when the pelvic floor muscles and ligaments stretch and weaken, allowing the uterus to slip down into or protrude out of the vagina. This condition is most common in people after menopause who have had one or more vaginal deliveries. Mild uterine prolapse may not require treatment, but more severe cases can cause discomfort and disrupt daily life.
Uveitis is a type of eye inflammation that affects the middle layer of tissue in the eye wall (uvea). It is a common condition that can occur at any age, including children. The warning signs of uveitis often come on suddenly and can worsen quickly. These signs may include eye redness, pain, and blurred vision.
Vaginal agenesis is a rare congenital disorder in which the vagina does not develop during fetal development. This condition can also be associated with partial or complete absence of the uterus and may be accompanied by other congenital abnormalities such as kidney or skeletal problems. The condition is often identified at puberty when a female does not begin menstruating. Vaginal agenesis is a complex and challenging condition that requires multidisciplinary care and treatment.
Vaginal atrophy is a condition that occurs when the vaginal walls become thin, dry, and inflamed due to reduced estrogen levels. This condition is most common in women after menopause but can also occur in women who have undergone hysterectomies or radiation therapy. Vaginal atrophy can cause symptoms such as vaginal dryness, itching, and pain during sexual intercourse. It can also lead to urinary symptoms such as frequency, urgency, and incontinence.
Vaginal cancer is a rare and complex disease that affects women's reproductive health. It is a type of cancer that starts in the cells of the vagina, a muscular tube that connects the uterus with the outer genitals. The vagina is also known as the birth canal. In this article, we will delve into the details of vaginal cancer, including its types, causes, risk factors, symptoms, prevention, complications, diagnosis and evaluation, treatment and management, and when to see a doctor.
A vaginal fistula is a rare and complex medical condition that involves the formation of an abnormal opening between the vagina and another organ, such as the bladder, colon, or rectum. This condition can be caused by various factors, including childbirth, injury, surgery, infection, or radiation treatment. In this article, we will delve into the details of vaginal fistulas, including their types, causes, risk factors, symptoms, prevention, complications, diagnosis and evaluation, treatment and management, and when to see a doctor.
Vaginitis is a common condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It is characterized by inflammation of the vagina, which can result in discharge, itching, and pain. The causes of vaginitis are diverse, and it can be caused by a change in the balance of vaginal bacteria, an infection, or hormonal changes.
Valley Fever is a fungal infection caused by Coccidioides organisms. It is a type of respiratory disease that affects people who live in or visit areas where the fungi are common. The infection can cause symptoms such as fever, cough, and tiredness, and in severe cases, can lead to pneumonia and other complications.
A varicocele is an enlargement of the veins within the loose bag of skin that holds the testicles (scrotum). These veins transport oxygen-depleted blood from the testicles. A varicocele occurs when blood pools in the veins rather than circulating efficiently out of the scrotum. This condition can cause poor development of a testicle, low sperm production, and other problems that may lead to infertility.
Varicose veins are bulging, enlarged veins that can cause discomfort, pain, and cosmetic concerns. Any vein that is close to the skin's surface, called superficial, can become varicosed. Varicose veins most often affect the veins in the legs due to increased pressure caused by standing and walking.
Vascular dementia is a type of dementia that affects brain function due to impaired blood flow to the brain. This condition is caused by damage to blood vessels in the brain, which can lead to a range of cognitive and emotional symptoms. Vascular dementia is often referred to as "multi-infarct dementia" because it is caused by multiple small strokes or infarcts in the brain.
Vascular ring is a rare congenital heart defect that occurs when part of the body's main artery or its branches forms a ring around the windpipe, food swallowing tube, or both. This condition is present at birth and affects the aorta and its branches. The aorta is the main artery that carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body. In a vascular ring, the aortic arch forms a ring around the trachea and/or esophagus, causing compression and potentially life-threatening consequences.
Vasculitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the blood vessels. This inflammation can cause the walls of the blood vessels to thicken, reducing the width of the passageway through the vessel. If blood flow is restricted, it can result in organ and tissue damage. Vasculitis can affect anyone, although some types are more common among certain age groups. In this article, we will explore the different types of vasculitis, causes, symptoms, prevention methods, and treatment options.
Vasovagal syncope is a condition that causes fainting due to an overreaction of the body's autonomic nervous system. It is also known as neurocardiogenic syncope. The condition is usually harmless and requires no treatment. However, it is essential to understand the causes and triggers of vasovagal syncope to prevent injuries and reduce the risk of complications.
Ventricular fibrillation is a type of irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia) that occurs when the lower heart chambers contract in a rapid and uncoordinated manner. This condition is an emergency that requires immediate medical attention, as it can lead to sudden cardiac death. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, prevention methods, and treatment options for ventricular fibrillation.
A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a hole in the heart that is present at birth. It is a type of congenital heart defect that occurs when the lower heart chambers (right and left ventricles) fail to develop properly. The hole allows oxygen-rich blood to move back into the lungs instead of being pumped to the rest of the body.
A vertebral tumor is a growth of cells that occurs in the bones of the spine. The spine is made up of many small vertebrae stacked on top of one another, which hold the body upright and enclose and protect the spinal cord. Vertebral tumors can be cancerous or not cancerous. A noncancerous vertebral tumor is also known as a benign vertebral tumor, while a cancerous vertebral tumor is known as a malignant vertebral tumor.
Vesicoureteral reflux is a condition where urine flows back up the tubes that connect your kidneys to your bladder. This abnormal flow of urine can cause urinary tract infections and increase the risk of kidney damage if left untreated. The condition is usually diagnosed in infants and children, and treatment aims to prevent kidney damage.
Viral gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection that affects millions of people worldwide. It is commonly referred to as the "stomach flu" due to its similarity to the symptoms of influenza. However, it is not caused by the flu virus and is instead caused by a variety of viruses that infect the stomach and intestines. The symptoms of viral gastroenteritis typically include watery diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea or vomiting, and sometimes fever.
Viral hemorrhagic fevers are a group of infectious diseases that can cause severe, life-threatening illness. These diseases can damage the walls of tiny blood vessels, making them leak, and can hamper the blood's ability to clot. The resulting internal bleeding is usually not life-threatening, but the diseases can be.
Vitamin deficiency anemia is a condition that occurs when the body lacks sufficient amounts of vitamin B-12 and folate. This can happen due to poor diet, inadequate absorption or processing of these vitamins, or other factors. As a result, the body produces red blood cells that are too large and don't function properly, leading to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity.
Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes loss of skin color in patches. The condition can affect any part of the body, including the skin, hair, and mucous membranes. Vitiligo is characterized by the destruction of melanin-producing cells, leading to white patches or spots on the skin. The condition can be stressful and affect an individual's self-esteem and quality of life.
Vocal cord paralysis is a condition that affects the muscles that control the voice. It occurs when the nerve impulses to the voice box, also known as the larynx, are disrupted. This results in paralysis of the vocal cord muscles. Vocal cord paralysis can make it difficult to speak and even breathe. The vocal cords are responsible for more than just producing sound; they also protect the airway by preventing food, drink, and saliva from entering the windpipe and causing a person to choke.
A voice disorder is a change in the way a person's voice sounds. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including medical conditions, vocal strain, and environmental factors. Voice disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age or occupation. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for voice disorders.
Von Willebrand disease is a rare but inherited bleeding disorder that affects the blood's ability to clot properly. It is caused by a deficiency or malfunction of von Willebrand factor, a protein that helps platelets stick together to form a clot. People with this condition may experience prolonged bleeding after an injury or surgery, and it can be challenging to manage. However, with proper treatment and self-care, most individuals with von Willebrand disease can lead active lives.
Vulvar cancer is a type of cancer that affects the outer surface area of the female genitalia. It is a rare but serious condition that requires prompt attention and treatment. The vulva is the area of skin that surrounds the urethra and vagina, including the clitoris and labia. Vulvar cancer can occur at any age, but it is most commonly diagnosed in older adults.
Vulvodynia is a type of chronic pain or discomfort that affects the vulva, the outer part of the female genitalia. It is characterized by recurring episodes of pain or discomfort that can last for months to years. The condition is often described as a burning, stinging, or shooting sensation in the affected area.
Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia is a rare type of cancer that begins in the white blood cells. It is considered a type of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, which is a group of cancers that affect the immune system. The condition is characterized by the abnormal growth and accumulation of white blood cells in the bone marrow and other parts of the body.
Wet macular degeneration is a long-lasting eye disorder that affects the central vision of the eye. It is characterized by the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the retina that leak fluid or blood into the macula, causing vision loss or blindness. Wet macular degeneration is one of two types of age-related macular degeneration, with the other type being dry macular degeneration.
Wheat allergy is an allergic reaction to foods containing wheat, which is a common ingredient in many foods. The symptoms of wheat allergy can range from mild to severe and can occur within minutes or hours after consuming wheat-containing foods. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for wheat allergy.
Whiplash is a common neck injury caused by a sudden and forceful movement of the neck, often referred to as the "cracking" of a whip. This type of injury can occur due to various reasons, including rear-end car crashes, sports accidents, physical abuse, and other types of traumas. Whiplash may be called a neck sprain or strain, but these terms also include other types of neck injuries.
Whipple disease is a rare bacterial infection that most often affects your joints and digestive system. It is a chronic condition that interferes with normal digestion by impairing the breakdown of foods and hampering your body's ability to absorb nutrients, such as fats and carbohydrates. Whipple disease is caused by the bacterium Tropheryma whipplei, which is typically found in the gut.
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection that affects children and adults. The infection is characterized by a severe hacking cough followed by a high-pitched intake of breath that sounds like "whoop." Before the vaccine was developed, whooping cough was considered a childhood disease. Now, it primarily affects children too young to have completed the full course of vaccinations and teenagers and adults whose immunity has faded.
Wilms tumor, also known as nephroblastoma, is a rare kidney cancer that primarily affects children. It is the most common type of kidney cancer in children, and it is often diagnosed in children between the ages of 3 and 4. While Wilms tumor is more common in children, it can also occur in older children and even adults.
Wilson's disease is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to remove excess copper from the bloodstream. Copper is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in many bodily functions, but excessive levels can be toxic. In Wilson's disease, the accumulation of copper can lead to damage in various organs, particularly the liver, brain, and eyes.
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) syndrome is a rare congenital heart defect that affects the heart's electrical system. It is characterized by an extra pathway for electrical signals to travel between the heart's upper and lower chambers, leading to abnormal heart rhythms. WPW syndrome is present at birth and can affect individuals of any age, but it is more common in children and young adults.
Wrist pain is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including sudden injuries, repetitive stress, arthritis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. Wrist pain can be a debilitating condition that can affect daily activities and overall quality of life.
X-Linked Agammaglobulinemia (XLA) is a rare immune system disorder that affects the production of antibodies. It is an inherited condition that is passed down from mother to son, and it is characterized by a deficiency in the production of antibodies. People with XLA are prone to recurrent infections, and if left untreated, it can lead to severe and life-threatening complications.
Vaginal yeast infections are a common condition that affects up to 3 out of 4 women at some point in their lifetimes. It is a fungal infection that causes irritation, discharge, and intense itchiness of the vagina and the vulva. The condition is also known as vaginal candidiasis.
The yips are a common condition that affects athletes, particularly golfers, who experience involuntary wrist spasms while performing specific actions. These spasms can occur in various sports, including cricket, darts, and baseball. Initially, the yips were thought to be solely linked to performance anxiety. However, it is now understood that some individuals may develop the yips due to a neurological condition called focal dystonia.
Zenker's diverticulum is a rare condition that affects the esophagus, a muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. It is characterized by the formation of a bulge or pouch at the top of the esophagus, which can get bigger over time. This condition can cause food, pills, and even thick mucus to get stuck in the pouch instead of passing through the esophagus, leading to eating difficulties and complications.
Zollinger-Ellison syndrome is a rare condition that affects the pancreas and small intestine. It is characterized by the growth of one or more tumors, known as gastrinomas, which produce excessive amounts of the hormone gastrin. This hormone stimulates the stomach to produce excessive amounts of acid, leading to peptic ulcers and other complications.
Azoospermia is a medical condition characterized by the absence of sperm in the ejaculate, which can result in male infertility. It affects approximately 1% of the male population and is a contributing factor in 10-15% of male infertility cases. The condition can be categorized into different types based on its underlying causes, including pretesticular, testicular, and post-testicular azoospermia. Understanding the types, causes, risk factors, and treatment options for azoospermia is crucial for effective diagnosis and management.