Definition Infectious mononucleosis (mono) is often called the kissing disease. The virus that causes mono is transmitted through saliva, so you can get it through kissing, but you can also be exposed through a cough or sneeze, or by sharing a glass or food utensils with someone who has mono. …
Read More »Multiple sclerosis – Definition, Treatment, and Prevention.
Definition Multiple sclerosis is a disease that involves an immune-mediated process that results in an abnormal response in the body’s immune system that damages central nervous system (CNS) tissues in which the immune system attacks myelin, the substances that surrounds and insulate nerves fibers causing demyelination that leads to nerve …
Read More »Diarrhea – Definition, Complications, and Prevention.
Definition Diarrhea is loose, watery stools. A person with this typically passes stool more than three times a day. People with it may pass more than a quart of stool a day. Acute diarrhea is a common problem that usually lasts 1 or 2 days and goes away on its …
Read More »Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 – Definition, Causes, and Treatment.
Definition Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 is an auto-immune condition in which the body destroys the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. This happens because the cells that make the insulin (beta cells) have been destroyed by the body’s own immune system. Insulin is the hormone that helps move sugar, …
Read More »Nail Fungus – Causes, Risk factors, and Prevention.
Definition Nail fungus is a common condition that begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, nail fungus may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and crumble at the edge. It can affect several nails. Nail fungus …
Read More »Obesity – Epidemiology, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention
Definition Obesity is a complex disorder involving an excessive amount of body fat. Obesity isn’t just a cosmetic concern. It increases your risk of diseases and health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. Being extremely obese means you are especially likely to have health problems related …
Read More »Ovarian Cancer – Causes, Complications, and Treatment.
Definition The term “ovarian cancer” includes several different types of cancer that all arise from cells of the ovary. Most commonly, tumors arise from the epithelium, or lining cells, of the ovary. These include epithelial ovarian (from the cells on the surface of the ovary), fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal …
Read More »Depression – Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments.
Introduction Depression also called “clinical depression” or a “depressive disorder” is a mood disorder that causes distressing symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating or working. Everyone feels sad or low sometimes, but these feelings usually pass with a little time. …
Read More »