Definition Pleural effusion is a build-up of excess fluid between the lining of the lungs and chest cavity. This lining is called the pleura. The area between the pleura is the pleural space. The body normally produces a small amount of fluid between the pleura to facilitate breathing. A pleural …
Read More »Vasculitis- Types, Causes, Symptoms and Prevention
Definition Vasculitis is a general term referring to a rare group of conditions marked by inflammation of blood vessels, causing them to be weakened, thickened, narrowed (stenosis), enlarged (aneurysm), blocked (occlusion), or scarred. There are many types of vasculitis based on the size of the vessel affected and may or …
Read More »Raynaud’s Phenomenon – Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Definition Raynaud’s phenomenon (RP) is a disorder resulting in vasospasm, a particular series of discolorations of the fingers and/or the toes after exposure to changes in temperature (cold or hot) or emotional events. Most people with RP have sensitivity to cold. Skin discoloration occurs because an abnormal spasm of the …
Read More »Sjogren’s Syndrome – Symptoms, Complications and Management
Definition Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease characterized by dryness of the mouth and eyes. Autoimmune diseases feature the abnormal production of extra antibodies in the blood that are directed against various tissues of the body. The misdirected immune system in autoimmunity tends to lead to inflammation of tissues. This …
Read More »Persistent Genital Arousal Disorder (PGAD) – Causes, and Treatment
Definition Persistent genital arousal disorder (also known as persistent sexual arousal syndrome and restless genital syndrome) is defined as feelings of spontaneous, persistent and intense genital arousal with or without orgasm, with or without genital engorgement, in the absence of sexual desire. This rare and unique sexual arousal problem is …
Read More »Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD)- Causes, Treatment and Prevention
Definition Peripheral vascular disease (PVD) is a problem with poor blood flow. It affects blood vessels outside of the heart and brain and gets worse over time. Parts of the body, like the brain, heart, arms, or legs, may not get enough blood. The legs and feet are most commonly …
Read More »Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA)- Causes, and Treatment
Definition Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) or Wegener’s Granulomatosis (WG) is an uncommon type of inflammation of small arteries and veins (vasculitis). It classically involves inflammation of the arteries that supply blood to the tissues of the lungs, the nasal passages (sinuses), and the kidneys. “Incomplete” forms exist that only involve …
Read More »Priapism – Treatment, Overview, and Risk Factors.
Overview Priapism is a persistent, usually painful, erection that lasts for more than four hours and occurs without sexual stimulation. The condition develops when blood in the penis becomes trapped and is unable to drain. If the condition is not treated immediately, it can lead to scarring and permanent erectile …
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