Definition Peritonsillar abscess, or Quinsy are typically a complication of tonsillitis. They most often are caused by “strep throat” bacteria (group A beta-hemolytic streptococci). The peritonsillar space lies between each tonsil and the wall of the throat. An infection can cause a pus-filled swelling (abscess) to develop in this space. …
Read More »Pneumococcal Disease – Introduction, Causes, and Treatment
What is Pneumococcal Disease? Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae (also known as pneumococcus). It’s contagious and may cause severe illness, so early diagnosis and treatment is important. Pneumococcal disease can affect many different systems in your body. It may result in conditions with mild symptoms like …
Read More »Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) – Overview
What is primary amoebic meningoencephalitis? Primary amoebic meningoencephalitis (PAM), also called amoebic meningitis, is a serious illness. It causes inflammation of the brain. An amoeba (Naegleria fowleri) causes PAM. The amoebas live in warm, fresh water and soil. Infection often happens during water-based recreational activities. Although many people have contact with the …
Read More »Piriformis Syndrome – Types, Complications and Treatment
Definition Piriformis Syndrome is a disorder caused when the piriformis muscle compresses the sciatic nerve. The resulting pain, tingling, and numbness in the buttocks may be mistaken for sciatica, because the pain is along the path of the sciatic nerve. The piriformis muscle flexes with almost every motion of our …
Read More »Parasomnias – Types, Causes, Epidemiology and Treatment
Definition Parasomnias are a group of sleep disorders marked by unusual actions, activities, or physiological events that occur during sleep or sleep-wake transitions. Parasomnias are divided according to the sleep phase in which the symptoms occur, either rapid eye movement (REM) or non-REM (NREM). Symptoms may include simple or complex …
Read More »Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) – Causes, Treatment and Prevention
Definition Patent Ductus Arteriosus is a heart problem that is frequently noted in the first few weeks or months after birth. It is characterized by the persistence of a normal prenatal connection between the aorta and the pulmonary artery which allows oxygen-rich (red) blood that should go to the body …
Read More »Palmar Hyperhidrosis – Description, Management, and Prevention.
Description Excessive, uncontrollable sweating of the hands or palms, is called palmar hyperhidrosis. This medical condition is an extremely stressful, embarrassing, and confidence-wrecking problem. From ruined paperwork to slippery handshakes, sweaty palms can negatively impact your social life, education, and career. It’s proven and published that palmar hyperhidrosis has the most …
Read More »Pericarditis – Types, Causes and Treatment
Definition Pericarditis is an inflammation of the pericardium. It is usually acute – it develops suddenly and may last up to several months. The condition usually clears up after 3 months, but sometimes attacks can come and go for years. When you have pericarditis, the membrane around your heart is …
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