Health Conditions

Amenorrhea means the absence of menstruation or periods in women above the age of 16.

Target Group

Females aged 16 or older are likely to suffer from this disease.

Type of Disease

Amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation and can be primary or secondary. The absence of menstrual bleeding and secondary sexual characteristics (e.g; breast development and pubic hair) in a girl by the age 14 years or the absence of menstrual bleeding with normal development of secondary sexual characteristics in a girl by the age of 16 years is termed as primary amenorrhea.

The absence of menstrual bleeding in a woman who was earlier menstruating but later stopped menstruating for three or more months is termed as secondary amenorrhea.

Symptoms

Absence of menstruation is the main symptom of amenorrhea. The other symptoms are:

• Headache
• Vaginal dryness
• Night sweats
• Hot flushes
• Sleep disturbances
• Weight gain or weight loss
• Anxiety
• Increased hair growth in a male pattern

Affected Area

The organs affected by PMS are female sex organs, the uterus, and the ovaries.

Causes

Late puberty is the most common cause of primary amenorrhea. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, use of birth control pills and birth control shots are the most common cause of secondary amenorrhea. An abnormality in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, uterus, cervix, vagina, and ovaries, can cause amenorrhea. It can also be caused by depression, malnutrition, chronic illnesses, rapid weight gain or loss, cystic fibrosis, hypoglycemia, and recent surgery.

Risk to Others

Women having a hormonal problem or a genetic disorder are at a high risk of suffering from amenorrhea. Family history of amenorrhea is also a risk factor.

Risk to the Sufferer

Anxiety and emotional distress is caused by amenorrhea when the patients’ feel embarrassed about being different from other women. They may also undergo a lot of stress if the cause of amenorrhea is not established.

Treatment

The actual cause of amenorrhea determines the course of treatment to be followed.

Amenorrhea caused by birth defects may require medications (hormones), surgery, or both. If tumor is the cause of amenorrhea then treatment requires the use of a drug called bromocriptine.

Radiation therapy and oral contraceptives may also be used. Some simple lifestyle modifications will also help in treating amenorrhea.

Anybody can be prone to amnesia, but people who are more susceptible to it are people with head injuries, people who drink excessive alcohol for a long period, and as people grow old they may show signs of some kind of amnesia.

Type of Ailment

Amnesia can be of various types:

• In Anterograde amnesia, new incidents are not transferred to long-term memory, so the sufferer will not be able to remember anything that occurs after the onset of this type of amnesia.
• Retrograde amnesia, when someone is unable to recall events that occurred before the onset of amnesia.
• Traumatic amnesia is normally due to a head injury. It is often temporary; the duration of the amnesia is related to the degree of injury.
• Long-term alcoholism may cause a type of memory loss known as Korsakoff's syndrome.
• Lacunar amnesia is the loss of memory about one specific incident (why is there no full stop here? This needs to be consistent.)
• Fugue state is caused by psychological trauma and is usually temporary.
• Childhood amnesia which is(remove this and place “also known as infantile amnesia” in commas) also known as infantile amnesia is the inability to remember events from your childhood.
• Global amnesia is total memory loss which may be a defense mechanism that occurs after a traumatic event.
• Posthypnotic amnesia is when incidents during hypnosis are forgotten, or where past memories are unable to be recalled.
• Source amnesia is a memory disorder in which someone can recall certain information, but are unable to know (this doesn’t make sense, remove “unable to” and insert “do not know”) where or how they obtained it.
• Memory distrust syndrome is a state where someone is unable to trust their own memory.
• Aging - Many aging persons gradually develop difficulties in memory.

Symptoms

The symptoms are:

• Long-term alcohol use can lead to amnesia, which is known as Alcoholic neuropathy.
• Heavy alcohol consumption combined with poor diet and small intake of thiamine leads to a partially reversible syndrome called Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome amnesia.

Probable Causes

A person could suffer from amnesia because:

• Injury in the brain
• Infection in the brain
• Tumour in the brain
• Alzheimer’s disease
• Dementia
• Certain metabolic diseases
• Emotional trauma

Risk to Others

Hereditary conditions of amnesia can be passed on to the children.

Risk to the Sufferer

Complications in Amnesia could lead to Anoxia.

Treatment

Medication, combined with counselling and a reminder system can improve the patient’s condition

Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints, which causes pain, swelling, and restricted movement. It is also known as joint pain.

Target Group

Arthritis is the most common disease and is more likely to occur in older age. It can occur in men and women of all ages.

Type of Disease

Arthritis is the breakdown of cartilage, which usually protects the joints, helps in its smooth movement, and absorbs shock when pressure is placed on the joint. Without the usual amount of cartilage, the bones rub together, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness. The different types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and gout . Most types of arthritis are chronic and occur over a long period of time.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms of arthritis are:

• Pain in the joints
• Joint stiffness, usually in the mornings
• Tenderness in the joints
• Warmth around a joint
• Redness of the skin near the joints
• Inability and discomfort in moving the joints
• Painful to touch

A rheumatologist should be consulted if any of these symptoms persists for more than two weeks.

Affected Area

Arthritis can attack joints in almost any part of the body including hands, neck, lower back, or the large weight-bearing joints of your body, such as knees and hips.

Causes

There are various factors which cause arthritis such as a viral or bacterial infection, an injury or normal wearing down of joints, autoimmune diseases, broken bone, gout , rheumatoid arthritis, or osteoarthritis.

Fungal infections such as blastomycosis can also cause arthritis. It can also be caused by hereditary factors.

Involuntary rhythmic or spasmodic gnashing, grinding and clenching of teeth, usually during sleep are known as bruxism.

Target Group

It is most common in kids, but adults also suffer from this condition.

Type of Disease

Bruxism is the medical term for clenching or grinding the teeth. Clenching means the tight clamping of top and bottom teeth together. This exerts pressure on the muscles, tissues, and other areas around the jaw. Grinding is the sliding of teeth on one another in a sideways, back-and-forth movement. Clenching and grinding of teeth can cause jaw pain, damage to teeth, and disturb others sleeping in the same room.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of Teeth grinding include:

• Teeth grinding loudly during sleep
• Flattened or chipped teeth
• Loss of tooth enamel
• Loosening of the tooth
• Tooth sensitivity
• Pain in jaws
• Headache and earache
• Facial pain
• Chewed tissue on insides of the cheeks
• Tension and stress

Affected Area

The jaws, ears, face, and muscles and tissues around the jaws are affected by this disorder.

Causes

Dental problems such as abnormal alignment of upper and lower teeth can cause bruxism. Certain psychological factors such as tension, worries, stress, frustration, and anger can also cause bruxism. In some cases it can be a complication of another disorder, such as Huntington's disease or Parkinson's disease. Psychiatric medications including antidepressants can also act as triggers. A dislocated jaw and disorder of the nervous system can also cause bruxism.

Risk to Others

Stress, anger, and frustration increases the chances of bruxism. It is more common in younger children and decreases with older age. Caffeine, nicotine and other drugs can also increase the risk.

Risk to the Sufferer

Bruxism is not a serious disorder, but it can cause permanent damage to the teeth, severe jaw pain, headaches , temporomandibular disorders, or ear pain. It can also lead to insomnia, eating disorders, and depression . It can also increase the severity of an existing dental problem.

Treatment

Most cases don't require any specific treatment. Exercise and meditation can relieve stress and pain of teeth grinding. A rubber tooth guard or a splint during sleeping can prevent damage to teeth. All dental problems should be corrected promptly. Botox injections and mild tranquilizers may help. Relax your facial and jaw muscles throughout the day. Massage the muscles of the neck, shoulders, and face. Apply cold pack or steam to sore jaw muscles for pain relief.

Cellulitis is an infection of the lower layers of skin and the subcutaneous tissues.

Target Group

Everybody can be prone to the infection; it is not limited to any particular group of people. People whose immune systems are weakened for reasons like chemotherapy for cancer or other immune-suppressing drugs and those with diabetes are at higher risk for developing Cellulites.

Type of Ailment

While Cellulitis may develop around wounds in the skin or surgical incisions, it can also arise without an obvious source for the bacterial infection. Staphylococci are the bacteria that usually cause Cellulitis, followed by Streptococci.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Cellulitis may include:

• Inflammation of skin
• Redness of skin
• Swelling lymph nodes in the area of infection
• The skin may remain warm
• Fever
• Painful skin
• Tender skin

Affected Areas

Cellulitis generally begins as a small area of pain and redness on the skin. This area spreads to surrounding tissues.

Probable Causes

Some of the possible causes of Cellulitis are:

• Bacterial infection
• Streptococcus bacteria

Risk to Others

Cellulitis is not contagious since the top layer of the skin is not affected and provides a defensive cover over the infected area.

Risk to the Sufferer

If not properly treated, the bacterial infection can increase all over the body, resulting in serious illness.

Treatment

Antibiotics are necessary for the treatment of Cellulitis. Penicillin derivatives are often suggested to treat Cellulitis, but other antibiotics can also be effective. In acute and severe cases of Cellulitis, hospitalisation and supervision of intravenous antibiotics may be necessary. Beside this the other preventive measures which could be used as treatment are:

• The patient should take complete bed rest
• To avoid pain the patient can take pain killers
• The affected area should be kept elevated
• The patient can soak the affected area in warm water which might relax him (or her)

It is a common disorder of the digestive tract in which the bowels are unable to move regularly, or cause difficulty and pain during elimination. It is also known as a "compacted bowel".

Target Group

Constipation can affect anyone. However, it is more common in children and older age groups.

Type of Disease

There are various types of constipation include: common constipation, chronic constipation, chronic idiopathic constipation, pregnancy related constipation, functional constipation, age related constipation, and travel related constipation.

Symptoms

There are many symptoms of constipation:

• Hard, dry and difficult bowel movements
• Hard and dry faeces
• No bowel movement
• Incomplete bowel movement
• Infrequent bowel movement
• Straining in moving bowels
• Pain in the abdomen
• Swelling and bloating in the abdomen
• Nausea and vomiting
• Malaise
• Weight loss
• Diarrhoea

Affected Area

The organs affected by constipation are the digestive tract, colon, rectum, and anus.

Causes

Causes of constipation may be dietary, hormonal, a side effect of medications, and anatomical. Main causes of constipation are hardening of the faeces, insufficient fluids and fibre in the diet, dehydration, sedentary lifestyle, stress, ignoring the nature’s call, medicines, paralysis, hypothyroidism, antidepressants, constriction of the rectum or intestine, strictures, tumours, or other illnesses.

Risk to the Sufferer

Complications include haemorrhoids, caused by straining to have a bowel movement, or anal fissures. As a result, rectal bleeding may occur, appearing as bright red streaks on the surface of the stool. Sometimes straining causes rectal prolapse in which a small amount of intestinal lining is pushed out from the anal opening. Constipation may also cause faecal impaction, rectal, and uterine hernia.

Treatment

It is easier to prevent constipation than to treat it. Increase fibre in the diet such as vegetables, fresh fruits, dried fruits, and whole wheat, bran, or oatmeal cereals. Laxatives can be taken but not for long periods as one can become dependent on them. Enemas can be used to provide a form of mechanical stimulation in severe cases of constipation. Never ignore the urge to go to the toilet. Avoid worries, stress, and anxiety. Rare cases may require surgery. Drinking plenty of fluids will help to pass the stool.

Dehydration means "the excessive loss of water from the body."

Target Group

Children are more affected by dehydration than adults. Babies and toddlers are at a greater risk of dehydration because they have less fluid reserves and they are sick more often.

Type of Ailment

Our bodies need a certain amount of fluid intake on an everyday basis to perform our normal bodily functions. Basic fluid intake serves to replace the fluids which are used up by the body. If we take in less or lose more fluid than is needed, this may result is dehydration.

Symptoms

General signs of dehydration are:

• Feeling thirsty
• Less frequent urination
• Skin being dry
• Fatigue and tiredness
• Dark coloured urine
• Dry mouth and tongue
• Dry and loose skin
• Children could have further signs like irritability, sunken eyes, abdomen and cheeks and fever

Affected Areas

Dehydration may affect the eyes, abdomen, cheeks and also make the tongue and mouth dry.

Probable Causes

Stress-related causes like prolonged exposure to dry air, or prolonged physical activity without consumption of water, shock, vomiting, diarrhea, and hyperthermia and blood loss may cause dehydration. Infectious disease like cholera, gastroenteritis, yellow fever, shigellosis and fasting for long periods can lead to dehydration.

Risk to the Sufferer

If not timely treated dehydration can turn severe leading to changes in the body's chemistry, kidney failure, and can even become life-threatening.

Treatment

The best way to treat dehydration is to prevent it from happening. Inform your doctor if you suspect excessive fluid loss during illness, Intravenous or oral fluid replacement may be required depending on severity of fluid loss.

Treatment for minor dehydration includes drinking water, sport drinks and other fluids commercially available to restore the loss of fluids during dehydration.

They should be used with care, as the balance of electrolytes they provide may not match the replacement requirements of the individual.

For severe cases of dehydration where the patient is incapable of standing or thinking clearly or when the patient is fainted, emergency attention is required.

Pain, cramping, or discomfort during menstruation is known as dysmenorrhea.

Target Group

It affects women who are menstruating.

Type of Disease

Dysmenorrhea is of two types: primary and secondary. Primary dysmenorrhea occurs in many women without any specific underlying cause. Secondary Dysmenorrhea is caused by other underlying medical conditions.

Symptoms

Some of the symptoms of Dysmenorrhea are:

• Cramps
• Painful menstruation
• Abdominal pain and back pain

Affected Area

The organs affected by dysmenorrhea are female sex organs, the uterus, and the ovaries.

Causes

Some of the possible causes of Dysmenorrhea are:

• Normal menstrual cycles
• Stopping oral contraceptive pills
• Primary dysmenorrhea
• Secondary dysmenorrhea
• Intra uterine device
• Endometriosis
• Ovarian cysts
• Ovarian tumors
• Fibroids
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Miscarriage
• Cervical and uterine polyps
• Low calcium diet
• Cervical obstruction

Risk to Others

The various risk factors of dysmenorrhea are: endometriosis, a family history of dysmenorrhea, fibroids, and premenstrual syndrome.

Risk to Sufferer

Dysmenorrhea hardly poses any complications other than fainting, back pain, and abdominal pain.

Treatment

The main aim of treatment is to relieve pain. Several prescribed medications and over the counter medications may be taken. Anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, are also administered.

Indomethacin may also be prescribed. Oral contraceptives are helpful in severe cases, such as endometriosis, by regulating the hormone levels in the body. If these treatments are unable to relieve pain, then a surgical procedure called laprascopy is advised.

In some cases all the symptoms of primary dysmenorrhea may disappear after a first pregnancy.

Epilepsy is a chronic disorder of the brain that causes a tendency to have recurrent seizures. It is also known as a seizure disorder.

Target Group

Epilepsy is most common during childhood and old age, but the condition can occur at any age.

Type of Disease

An abnormal discharging of the brain's nerve cells causes temporary disturbance of sensory, motor, or mental functions of the body, thus resulting in seizures. They are of two types - partial and generalized. Partial seizures begin in one particular part of the brain, and later spread to other parts. Generalized seizures start in both sides of the brain at once and causes unconsciousness.

Symptoms

Seizures are caused by abnormal brain cell activity and its symptoms may vary depending on the type of seizure:

• Temporary confusion
• Unconsciousness
• Uncontrollable jerking movements of the arms and legs
• Staring into space and eyes are usually open
• Blinking repetitively
• Breathing appears to be stopped
• Sometimes, loss of urine

Causes

A seizure is caused when abnormal messages are sent by the brain cells preventing other cells from working properly. Some of the common causes include brain damage from birth injuries, head injuries, tumor, stroke, alcoholism, low blood sugar, chemicals, or drug abuse. In rare cases seizures have a genetic basis. In many cases no cause for epilepsy has been found.

Risk to Others

The risk factors of epilepsy include: brain infections, Alzheimer's disease, poisoning due to lead or carbon monoxide, head injuries, stroke, alcohol, and drugs. A family history of seizures can also put you at risk.

Risk to the Sufferer

Recurrent seizures may put you and others at risk of physical harm. Seizures may produce injuries associated with falling, such as a head injury. A seizure that occurs while swimming could cause you to drown. A seizure during driving a vehicle can lead to car accidents. Drugs used to control seizures can have side effects such as drowsiness, which may affect your driving ability. Seizures during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects. People who have severe, prolonged seizures are at increased risk of permanent brain damage and death.

Treatment

Treatments for epilepsy aim at reducing the frequency and intensity of seizures. Many children with epilepsy outgrow the disorder when they grow up. The majority of epileptic seizures are prevented or controlled through anticonvulsant drugs. Surgery may also be performed to treat partial epilepsy. The ketogenic diet is effective for treating certain types of epilepsy. Electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve requires a minor surgery to implant a stimulator under the upper chest, and has proved successful in treating epilepsy.

Redness of the skin caused by increased blood flow to the capillaries is called Erythema.

Target Group

Men are at higher risk than women for Erythema multiforme. While women, are at a higher risk for Erythema nodosom. People who work under excessive sun exposure are also at a risk for Erythema multiforme.

Type of Ailment

There are many types of Erythema, like photosensitivity, Erythema multiforme, and Erythema nodusum. Photosensitivity involves skin reaction in response to the sun; it tends to occur when an infection or a medication increases a person's sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. Erythema multiforme is distinguished by spots, blisters, or other lesions on the skin and generally results from a reaction to medications, infections, or illness. Erythema nodosum are small round masses, typically nodules on the arms and legs.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Erythema multiforme are:

• Fever, malaise and itching of skin
• Sudden eruption of spots, bumps, and lesions
• Concentrated lesions
• Rashes on the face and arms

The symptoms of Erythema nosdosm are:

• Tiredness, malaise and flu kind of symptoms
• Clusters of nodules and lesions on shins, forearms, thighs, and trunk
• Joint pain

Affected Areas

Since Erythema is a skin infection it can cause redness and inflammation on all parts of the body.

Probable Causes

In half of all cases of erythema the exact cause is not identified. Erythema multiforme:

• Infection (primarily herpes simplex virus (HSV) , pneumonia, influenza A and Epstein–Barr virus)
• Medications (penicillin, certain antibiotics containing sulfa; anticonvulsant medications)
• Radiation therapy
• Cancer
• Certain chemicals

Erythema nodosum

• Infections (tuberculosis and HSV)
• Connective tissue disorders like lupus
• Pregnancy
• Ulcerative colitis
• Medications (oral contraceptives; a class of antibiotics containing sulfa)

Risk to Others

Individuals with a family history of skin infections have a greater chance of developing either Erythema multiforme or Erythema nodosum.

Risk to the Sufferer

If the infection is not timely treated then it can increase causing further complications.

Treatment

Treatments for Erythema depend on the type of Erythema. Pain killers, topical skin lotions and antibiotics can be given. Certain alternative therapies could be used to reduce inflammation, boost immune system and prevent further infections.

Redness of the skin caused by increased blood flow to the capillaries is called Erythema.

Target Group

Men are at higher risk than women for Erythema multiforme. While women, are at a higher risk for Erythema nodosom. People who work under excessive sun exposure are also at a risk for Erythema multiforme.

Type of Ailment

There are many types of Erythema, like photosensitivity, Erythema multiforme, and Erythema nodusum. Photosensitivity involves skin reaction in response to the sun; it tends to occur when an infection or a medication increases a person's sensitivity to ultraviolet radiation. Erythema multiforme is distinguished by spots, blisters, or other lesions on the skin and generally results from a reaction to medications, infections, or illness. Erythema nodosum are small round masses, typically nodules on the arms and legs.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Erythema multiforme are:

• Fever, malaise and itching of skin
• Sudden eruption of spots, bumps, and lesions
• Concentrated lesions
• Rashes on the face and arms

The symptoms of Erythema nosdosm are:

• Tiredness, malaise and flu kind of symptoms
• Clusters of nodules and lesions on shins, forearms, thighs, and trunk
• Joint pain

Affected Areas

Since Erythema is a skin infection it can cause redness and inflammation on all parts of the body.

Probable Causes

In half of all cases of erythema the exact cause is not identified. Erythema multiforme:

• Infection (primarily herpes simplex virus (HSV) , pneumonia, influenza A and Epstein–Barr virus)
• Medications (penicillin, certain antibiotics containing sulfa; anticonvulsant medications)
• Radiation therapy
• Cancer
• Certain chemicals

Erythema nodosum

• Infections (tuberculosis and HSV)
• Connective tissue disorders like lupus
• Pregnancy
• Ulcerative colitis
• Medications (oral contraceptives; a class of antibiotics containing sulfa)

Risk to Others

Individuals with a family history of skin infections have a greater chance of developing either Erythema multiforme or Erythema nodosum.

Risk to the Sufferer

If the infection is not timely treated then it can increase causing further complications.

Treatment

Treatments for Erythema depend on the type of Erythema. Pain killers, topical skin lotions and antibiotics can be given. Certain alternative therapies could be used to reduce inflammation, boost immune system and prevent further infections.

Food poisoning is an acute syndrome caused by ingestion of food containing bacteria or viruses. The symptoms appear very suddenly and within 48 hours of eating the contaminated food.

Target Group

It is a common disease, affecting people of all ages and both sexes worldwide.

Type of Disease

Food poisoning does not occur due to chemical fertilizers, or pesticides applied to food by farmers, but due to poor food storage or handling practices in home or restaurant kitchens that cause food to become contaminated. The toxin has a paralyzing effect on the nervous system; it prevents the nerves from conducting messages from the brain. Control of the muscles around the face and neck is lost. This may cause difficulty in eating and swallowing. Loss of the ability to swallow makes it impossible to eat. It leads to choking and may bring foreign materials into the lungs. It is a common, usually mild, but sometimes deadly illness.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Food Poisoning are:

• Nausea
• Vomiting.
• Diarrhoea
• Cramps in the stomach
• Chills
• Fever
• Watery stools
• Dehydration
• Nervous system damage
• Flu like symptoms
• Dryness in the mouth

Affected Area

Usually the abdomen and central nervous system is affected but the whole body may be affected by food poisoning.

Causes

The known causes of food poisoning include infective agents and toxic agents. Infective agents include viruses, bacteria, and parasites. Toxic agents include poisonous mushrooms, improperly prepared exotic foods, or pesticides on fruits and vegetables. Food usually becomes contaminated with these agents from poor sanitation or preparation by the food handlers. Improperly packaged food stored at the wrong temperature also promotes contamination. Three of the most important causes of food poisoning are the salmonella, clostridium botulinum and staphylococcal organisms.

Risk to Others

People who travel frequently are at a high risk of food poisoning known as Traveler's diarrhoea.

Risk to Sufferer

Severe food poisoning can cause difficulty in breathing, blurred vision, or paralysis. It is a mild disease but in some cases it can turn fatal.

Treatment

Treatment for food poisoning starts with extra fluids to remain hydrated. A bland diet should be taken once the symptoms of food poisoning subside. Medications to control vomiting and diarrhoea may be given.

Tissue damage caused by extreme cold is termed as frostbite. It mostly occurs when the wind is blowing, rapidly drawing heat from the body. As a result of exposure to cold, the blood vessels constrict causing a decrease in the supply of blood to the chilled parts and depriving the tissues of the warmth needed.

Target Group

Frostbite affects all age groups and all sexes but is most common in middle-aged males. Those people who have to work outdoors in the cold are usually affected, like soldiers. Frostbite is common in Alaska and Canada.

Type of Disease

Frostbite is characterized by the hard and cold quality of the skin, which is exposed to extreme cold temperatures making it insensitive to touch. The affected area becomes red and painful as it thaws.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of frostbite are not always apparent to the sufferer because frostbite has a numbing effect. The initial symptoms include coldness and firmness, followed by numbness and burning. Severe frostbite may cause gangrene (blackened, dead tissue), and damage to bone, muscles and nerves.

Affected Area

The exposed parts of the body are usually affected by frostbite. They include the nose, cheeks, ears, toes, shins, corneas and fingers.

Causes

Frostbite occurs when the skin and body tissues are exposed to cold temperature for a prolonged period of time. Tissues freeze quickly when in contact with thermal conductors such as volatile solutions and metals. It is also caused by constructive clothing or boots, immobility, or medications.

Risk to Others

People suffering from disorder of the arteries have chances of getting frostbite. Those who use beta-blockers, which decrease the flow of blood to the skin, are susceptible to frostbite. Chances of frostbite are also increased by diabetes, nicotine use, and windy weather.

Risk to Sufferer

Cellular dehydration takes place and capillaries get damaged. Recovery may be complete if only the skin and underlying tissues are damaged. The damage is permanent if blood vessels are affected, and gangrene can follow which can lead to amputation of the affected area. When combined with hypothermia or wound-related sepsis, death is possible.

Treatment

Treatment for the early stages of frostbite involves placing the affected part close to the body for warmth without rubbing. In severe frostbite the tissue, may be damaged permanently so it should not be rubbed. Heat should not be applied and the affected area should be lightly covered for protection. The subject should seek medical help if the skin is frozen because thawing is very painful. The frozen tissue should be thawed by immersion in circulating hot water. Move thawed areas as little as possible. Smoking, tea; coffee should be avoided as it may constrict blood vessels.

Gangrene is the death and putrefaction of tissue of any body part due to a loss of blood supply. It's a serious condition that requires immediate medical care.

Type of Disease

The various types of gangrene are: dry, wet, gas, and internal gangrene. Dry gangrene is caused by inadequate blood supply through the arteries such as atherosclerosis or blood clots. The affected tissue becomes shriveled, dry and dark and it generally does not cause infection. In wet gangrene the affected tissue may get infected with bacteria causing blisters and swelling. Gas gangrene usually occurs due to clostridium bacterial infection which destroys the affected tissue. Internal gangrene interrupts blood flow to abdominal organs causing severe pain and fever.

Symptoms

The symptoms of gangrene depend on the location and cause of the gangrene. They are:

• Coldness
• Redness
• Black, red, blue, or bronze discolouration
• Severe pain
• Loss of sensation
• Fever
• Local blackening
• Foul smelling discharge
• Gas in tissues below the skin
• Malaise
• Septic shock

Affected Area

Any part of the human body can be affected by gangrene.

Causes

The various possible causes of gangrene are diabetes, frostbite, surgery, diabetic peripheral neuropathy, serious injury, bacterial infection, or wound infection.

Risk to Others

Any person is at a higher risk of gangrene if he (or she) is suffering from diabetes, immuno suppression, or blood vessel disease, such as arteriosclerosis. A serious injury or any surgical procedure can also put you at a higher risk of having gangrene.

Risk to Sufferer

Depending on the extent of damage caused to the affected part by gangrene, complications include: tissue death, amputation, blood poisoning, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, septic shock, disability, and need for skin grafting. Delay in treatment can also lead to death of the patient.

Treatment

Prompt diagnosis and treatment is required in gangrene. The treatment is determined by the underlying cause. No treatment can revive a dead tissue, hence surgery or amputation of the affected part is necessary to allow healing and prevent further infection. Sometimes repeated surgeries are required to remove dead tissues. A course of antibiotics is administered. Antitoxin and penicillin may also be used.

Glandular fever is a viral disease which affects certain blood cells. Glandular fever is caused by the Epstein-Barr virus. When a person is suffering from Glandular fever, their monocular cells (white blood cells) increase, hence it is also called mononucleosis.

Target Group

The most common age to catch glandular fever with symptoms is between the ages of 10 and 35. Only people who haven't had it as a child can get glandular fever as an older child or young adult.

Type of Ailment

Glandular fever is also called infectious mononucleosis and the kissing disease.

Symptoms

Sometimes there are few or no noticeable symptoms of glandular fever. If symptoms occur, they usually include:

• Swollen and enlarged lymph node
• Swollen tonsillitis (with white coating) (tonsillitis or tonsils)
• Headache
• Sore throat and blocked nose
• Nausea, tiredness and fatigue
• Loss of appetite and weight

Affected Areas:

A person suffering from Glandular fever may have swollen tender lymph nodes in the neck, armpits and groin. Also in severe cases there may be damage to the nervous system.

Causes

Glandular fever is usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is a member of the herpes virus family. Most incidents of glandular fever occur sporadically. It is passed on through saliva and the mucus formed in the nose and throat. Because it mainly spread through saliva one should avoid close contact. A person with glandular fever is most infectious when they have a fever.

An allergy to pollen manifested by cold-like symptoms is termed as hay fever. It is often referred to as pollinosis or allergic rhinitis.

Target Group

Hay fever is one of the most common allergic conditions Heredity plays a key role in determining hay fever. A family history of asthma or allergies can make you more susceptible to develop hay fever. It can begin at any age but children and young adults are most likely to develop it.

Type of Disease

Hay Fever is a short-lived, seasonal, allergic reaction to the pollen of a particular plant. Allergies are caused by an oversensitive immune system. When a man's immunity is low he reacts to harmless allergens. Pollens causing hay fever vary from people to people.

Symptoms

Its symptoms can be mild or acute. Common symptoms of hay fever include itchy, watery eyes, sneezing, running nose, irritability, headache, coughing, loss of sleep, and tiredness. The amount of pollen in the air determines the development of symptoms of hay fever. Windy and dry days have more pollen in the air than cool and rainy days.

Affected Area

The nose and eyes are usually affected by hay fever.

Causes

The most common causes are pollen, dust mites, weeds, pet dander and cockroaches. Perfume and tobacco can also act as irritants. Harsh detergents and chemicals like chlorine are triggers. Pollens of wind-pollinated plants like alder and birch tree are chief causes.

Risk to Others

Heredity and environment factors may contribute to a tendency to allergies. The risk factors which increase chances of developing hay fever are family history of allergies, being male and being a first child. Other factors include passive smoking in infancy and exposure to dust particles.

Risk to Sufferer

Without proper treatment, hay fever can impair your quality of life, cause sleeplessness, fatigue and irritability that affect your performance at work or school, and increase your risk of developing more serious allergic conditions such as asthma or eczema . The probable complications in hay fever can be nasal polyps, sinusitis and drowsiness due to side effects of medications.

Treatment

Treatment of hay fever depends on the type and severity of the symptoms. The first step is to reduce allergy symptoms. Various medicines, like antihistamines which counteract the histamines released by the body in reaction to the allergen, are available. Corticosteroids help to reduce inflammation and eye drops relieve itching and discomfort in the eyes. For a severe case of hay fever the doctor may administer desensitization shots which induce the body to develop a tolerance to the particular allergen.

An abnormal protrusion of an organ part through the tissues that hold it, is termed as hernia. Laxity of the muscles causes an opening in the body wall allowing the body part to protrude.

Target Group

Hernias can be seen in children as well as adults. Hernia is common in infants when the lining of the abdominal walls does not close properly before birth.

Symptoms

Small soft lumps under the skin. Generally there is no pain. However, the size of the lump will gradually increase.

Affected Area

A hernia may develop in almost any part of the body. But the muscles of the abdominal wall are most commonly affected.

Treatment

The best treatment is surgical closure or repair of the muscle wall.

The term insomnia denotes a complete lack of sleep that occurs on a regular basis and often for no apparent reason. It is the persistent inability to fall asleep or to remain asleep long enough to get rest.

Target Group

Insomnia is more common in women than men and it tends to increase with age. It is most common in the elderly because with increased age there is a reduction of periods of deep sleep.

Type of Disease

Insomnia can be classified as transient, acute and chronic. Short term anxiety or jet lag can be a cause of transient insomnia which lasts from one night to a few weeks. The inability to consistently sleep well for a period of three weeks to six months is called acute insomnia. If it persists every night for more than a month then it is termed as chronic.

Symptoms

Difficulty in falling asleep is the chief symptom of insomnia. The other symptoms are:

• Changes in sleep patterns
• Changes in the quality and duration of sleep
• Frequent lapses of memory
• Lack of concentration during the day
• Loss of coordination
• Emotional instability

Affected Area

Sleep deprivation in insomnia affects the nerves in the brain and makes it difficult to relax.

Causes

The most common cause of sleeplessness is mental tension due to fear, worry and anxiety. It is often caused by stress, medications, herbs or drinking too much caffeine or alcohol. It can also be caused by an overactive mind or physical pain. Anger or bitterness can also cause insomnia. Dyspepsia, constipation, overeating at night, excessive intake of tea, coffee, nicotine and going to bed hungry are among the other causes.

Usually about 1% of our red blood cells retire every day, to be replaced by fresh red blood cells. The old ones are processed in the liver and disposed of. Much of the resulting bilirubin leaves the body in the stool. Jaundice results if there are too many red blood cells retiring, by the liver being overloaded or damaged, or by the inability to move processed bilirubin from the liver to the intestines.

Jaundice can be categorised as three types:

• Hepatocellular jaundice caused by damage to liver cells either by toxic drugs or viral infection.
• Hemolytic jaundice caused by excessive destruction of red blood cells resulting in increased bilirubin formation and anemia.
• Obstructive jaundice, which is caused when there is a blockage in moving the bile from the liver to the duodenum.

Symptoms

The chief symptom of jaundice is the yellowish staining of the skin the whites of the eyes. The other symptoms are  headache, fever, weakness, loss of appetite, nausea, constipation and fatigue. There may be a dull pain in the liver area. Obstructive jaundice may be associated with intense itching. Looking yellow and having dark urine and light stools can be due to liver disease or cirrhosis. The patient may have signs of liver disease including fatigue, swelling of the ankles, muscle wasting, ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity), mental confusion or coma, and bleeding into the intestines. Blockage of the flow of bile can lead to deficiencies of certain vitamins.

Affected Area

Jaundice affects the skin, mucous membranes, and whites of the eyes. It is a symptom that often occurs with liver, gallbladder and blood disorders.

Causes

The various causes of jaundice in children and adults are malaria, viral hepatitis, anaemia, premature birth, cirrhosis, genetic syndromes, blood diseases, and dehydration and blocked bile ducts.

Risk to Others

Blood transfusions, hepatitis, use of alcohol, drugs, antibiotics, can increase the chances of jaundice, and liver and gall bladder diseases.

Risk to Sufferer

Complications from high bilirubin levels are deafness, cerebral palsy and brain damage.

Treatment

Jaundice in neonates is very mild and usually clears away by exposure to sunlight. The child may be treated with a special ultraviolet light known as phototherapy if the jaundice is severe. Jaundice in adults requires treating its specific cause. There are many treatments that may be used for liver and gallbladder problems depending on the exact condition. They include avoiding alcohol and medicine, which cause the condition.

Causes of anaemia and other infectious diseases should also be treated. Treating the inflammation of the pancreas and extracting gallstones should remove bile duct obstruction.

A mineral formation in the urinary tract is called calculus or a  kidney stone.

Target Group

Kidney stones are more frequent in men than in women and chances of getting stones increases with age. A person who has already got one kidney stone has the chance of getting more stones.

Type of Disease

Kidney stones are formed when excess minerals, such as calcium, are present and concentrate into a hard lump on the inner surfaces of the kidney. They may exist without causing discomfort, or they may cause a blockage that can interfere with the normal functioning of the body.

Symptoms

If the stone becomes too large to pass easily it may cause immense pain in the back or sides just below ribs. As the stone moves from the urethra to the bladder, the pain may spread out to the lower abdomen and groin. Other signs are frequent and painful urination, nausea, vomiting, blood in the urine, or chills and fever.

Affected Area

The kidneys and the urinary tracts are affected by it.

Causes

Excess calcium in the body may come from a diet rich in calcium or vitamin D, or by calcium released by fractured bones. A hereditary disease called renal tubular acidosis can cause kidney stones. Other causes of kidney stones are urinary tract infections, kidney disorders, metabolic disorders, gout, and blockage of the urinary tract.

Risk to Others

A family history of kidney stones increases the chances of getting kidney stones. Lack of fluids especially water and a high protein and low fiber diet may increase your risk of some types of kidney stones. A sedentary lifestyle puts you at a risk for stones because limited activity can cause bones to release extra calcium. Certain medications also cause stones.

Risk to Sufferer

Kidney stones can cause urinary tract infection, bleeding or kidney damage if left untreated for a long time.

Treatment

Medications to prevent calcium and uric acid stones are also prescribed. These drugs control the amount of acid or alkali in the urine. Extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy are the most frequently used methods for the treatment of kidney stones.

White patches which develop on the mucous membranes of the mouth as a result of chronic irritation are known as leukoplakia. It is also known as smoker's keratosis.

Target Group

This disease mostly affects the elderly and it is more common in men than in women.

Type of Disease

The earliest patches are faintly translucent and later they become slightly elevated and have a granular texture. In some cases these patches progress to thickened white lesions indicating an ulcer formation or an infection. Leukoplakia is mostly painless but these patches may become sensitive to spicy foods or to touch. Some people develop an unusual type of the disorder called hairy leukoplakia.

Symptoms

The main symptoms of leukoplakia are white or grey sores on the insides of cheeks or tongue. Over a period of time these patches acquire a thick, elevated and rough texture. Painless and fuzzy patches on the tongue are the symptoms of hairy leukoplakia. The lesions which are red in color are known as erythroplakia and have more chances of developing into cancerous lesions.

Affected Areas

The lesions of leukoplakia usually develop on the tongue, insides of the cheek and gums. These patches may also develop on the female external genital area.

Causes

The main cause of leukoplakia is the use of tobacco. Excessive consumption of alcohol, chronic irritation, candidasis, endocrine disorders, viral infection, deficiency of vitamin A and D are the other causes of these patches.

Risk to Others

Consumption of tobacco and alcohol increases the risk of getting leukoplakia. Since men drink and smoke more than women, they are more likely to suffer from this disorder.

Risk to Sufferer

If the irritating factors causing leukoplakia are removed then it does not cause any permanent damage to the tissues but the presence of an infection can cause complications. These lesions can become cancerous. Hairy leukoplakia may progress to an HIV infection.

Treatment

The main cause of irritation should be removed. Smoking should be stopped immediately. All dental problems should be corrected including ill fitting dentures and rough teeth. If the patches show any kind of malignancy then they can be removed using a cryoprobe, scalpel or laser. Retinoids may be used but they have side effects. Antioxidants like beta carotene are also prescribed for these white patches.

Lice are tiny wingless insects that survive on humans and animals and suck their blood.

Target Group

Head lice are more frequent in school going children, day care centres. Body lice are seen in areas of poverty, overcrowding, and poor hygiene.

Type of Ailment

There are three main types of lice that infect people - head lice, body lice, and pubic lice (crabs). They usually leech to the body to suck blood.

Symptoms

Each one type of Lice has different symptoms. The common symptoms are:

Head Lice

• Itching in the scalp
• Tiny whitish grey football-shaped eggs sticking to hair close to the scalp
• Blackish or grayish ant sized insects behind the ears or at the nape of the neck
• Wound on the scalp due to itching and scratching

Body Lice

• Reddish, tender bumps caused by bites on the body
• Eggs (nits) on clothing, most often in the seams of undergarments

Pubic Lice

• Itching in the genital area
• Small crablike insects on the skin in the crotch region
• Small dark flecks, which are crab faeces, on underwear
• Nits clinging to the base of pubic hair

Affected Areas

The head lice affect the scalp, body lice usually affect the arms, torso and buttocks, while the pubic lice attacks the pubic area.

Causes

The main cause of the growth of lice is not maintaining cleanliness and personal hygiene. Lice grow and multiply very fast in unhygienic conditions. They are more often seen in poor, unclean areas where people cannot keep up to personal hygiene.

Risk to Others

Head lice can spread by sharing hair brushes, pillows, combs, helmets and caps. Body to body contact and sexual intercourse may lead to the spread of body and pubic lice.

Risk to Sufferer

If not controlled the ailment can increase very fast causing breaks in the skin which may lead to further infections and fever.

Treatment

Treatment for lice is essential. Your doctor may suggest shampoos, soaps or detergents that will kill the lice. However one should also keep themselves clean to avoid the growth of lice.

Migraine is described as excruciating pain, which is intensified by routine activity and by lowering the head and straining.

This headache may gradually start off with dull thudding in the temples. Migraine headaches can vary from mild to acute pain and are generally felt on one side of the head.

A migraine attack involves a headache and is accompanied by other symptoms. It can last from four hours to three days.

Target Group

Migraines may affect at least one in ten persons. Although they affect both young and old, migraine headaches are common in the age group of 20 to 40 years old. Migraine headaches are three times more common in women than in men. Some women experience migraine headaches prior to or during menstruation.

Type of Ailment

Migraines can further be classified by the symptoms they produce. Migraine with aura and migraine without aura are the two most common types of migraines. Basilar artery migraines, Headache-free migraine, Carotidynia, Status migraine, Ophthalmologic migraine are the less common ones. Menstrual migraines, which relate to hormonal changes, may be experienced by some women just prior or during menstruation.

Symptoms

People suffering from migraine may experience some or all of the mentioned symptoms:

• Mild to severe throbbing headache
• Sensitivity to light sound and odour
• Nausea and vomiting
• Visual disturbances
• Frequent seizures

Other accompanied symptoms may be like tiredness, fatigue, paleness, and loss of appetite, dizziness, diarrhoea and sensations of being very cold and warm.

Affected Areas:

A migraine typically starts in a particular area on one side of the head, then increases and builds in intensity over 1 to 2 hours.

Causes

The actual cause of migraine is unknown. The condition may result from a chain of reactions in the central nervous system caused by changes in the body or in the surroundings. Family history of disorder can also lead to migraine.

Risk to Others

If both your parents have migraines, there's a good possibility you will too. You can also suffer from migraine even if only one of your parents has migraine.

Treatment

Migraine treatment may differ according to your condition. The two categories are Migraine prophylaxis (prevention medicine) this treatment involves medicine taken regularly to reduce the total number of migraine headaches you may get. Migraine prevention medicine helps in migraine attacks from even starting.

Unvaccinated children between the ages of 2 and 12 are most commonly infected, but the infection can occur in other age groups.

Target Group

Unvaccinated children between the ages of 2 and 12 are most commonly infected, but the infection can occur in other age groups.

Type of Disease

The mumps are caused by a virus which spreads from person-to-person by respiratory droplets or direct contact with articles that have been contaminated with infected saliva. The incubation period is usually 12 to 24 days. For prevention, the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine should be given to 12-15 months old children. Vaccination is repeated between 4 to 6 years of age, or between 11 and 12 years of age. The disease is more severe if you get it as an adult. Although uncomfortable, mumps is usually harmless and symptoms normally subside within ten days. Many children with mumps have no symptoms.

Symptoms

The various symptoms of mumps are:

• Swelling of the parotid glands
• Pain in the face
• Swelling of the jaws and cheeks
• Headache
• Fever
• Sore throat
• Chills
• Malaise
• Vomiting and nausea
• Pain in swallowing

In males there may be additional symptoms such as scrotal swelling, testicle lump and pain.

Other accompanied symptoms may be like tiredness, fatigue, paleness, and loss of appetite, dizziness, diarrhoea and sensations of being very cold and warm.

Affected Areas

The salivary glands between the ear and the jaw, known as the parotid glands, are mainly affected by mumps. Sometimes other organs may also be infected and swollen, including the central nervous system, the testes, and the pancreas.

Causes

Mumps is a contagious disease caused by a virus. The incubation period is from 16-18 days, ranging from 12-25 days after exposure. The period when someone is most infectious to others is from 1-2 days before and 5 days after the onset of swelling in the glands. People with mumps are contagious for 1-2 days before and about a week after the onset of symptoms, which occurs about two to three weeks after exposure to the mumps virus. The mode of transmission is through direct contact with an infected person's sneeze or cough. Humans are the only known natural hosts.

Risk to Others

Unvaccinated children and adults are most susceptible to mumps.

Risk to Sufferer

Possible complications due to mumps include pancreatitis, meningitis, male sterility, encephalitis, prostatitis, and dehydration.

Treatment

There is no effective treatment for mumps. The symptoms can be relieved by the application of hot or cold packs to the affected area, acetaminophen for pain relief, paracetamol, analgesics, and warm salt water gargles. Soft diet, extra fluids, and adequate rest will also help to relieve symptoms.

Fungal nail infection can affect the finger and toenails. One should not ignore nail infection because it is not only painful but also dangerous. The infection can go to the nail plate from the open margin and sides of the nails. The nail plate may become brittle, thickened or totally damaged.

Target Group

One can develop nail or toe infection if they have a family history of the infection, or they smoke, or they perspire heavily. People suffering from diabetes, circulatory problems and a weak immune system are more prone to this infection.

Type of Ailment

The most common type of infection is the fungal nail infection. An infection of the nail fold is called Paronychia.

Symptoms

There are several symptoms that can help to detect the infection early and hence one can start treatment immediately:

• Discolouration beneath the tip of the nail (yellow and white in colour)
• Thickening or crumbling of nail
• Distortion in the shape of the nail
• Nails become dull and lack shine
• Unpleasant odour and pain in the nail

Affected Areas

If the nail infection is not treated timely, then it can spread to all the nails and cause nail damage.

Causes

A humid or moist environment can cause bacteria to form, which may lead to fungal infection. To prevent nail fungus one should trim and clean their nails regularly. Keeping the nails dry will keep the infections away. Uncomfortable shoes and walking barefoot can cause toenail fungus. While visiting the salon for manicure and pedicure insist on clean equipment as bacteria are easily transmitted on nail treatment products.

Risk to Others

This infection could be inherited by family history.

Risk to Sufferer

If not treated, nail fungus can become a serious infection and may spread to other nails. This ailment is particularly dangerous to anyone who has diabetes; nail fungus may cause permanent nail injury.

Treatment

The doctor may suggest some antifungal tablets or antifungal cream for the infection. Depending on the type of infection the patient may take 2 to 12 months to recover. The nail may take some months to return to its normal appearance. The best way to treat the infection successfully is to detect it early.

Accumulation of excess fat on the body is known as obesity.

Target Group

Obesity has become the most common ailment in the world, and is the second leading cause of preventable deaths. It affects both sexes equally, but women are more likely than men to gain weight with the same calorie intake. It occurs in children as well as adults.

Type of Disease

Obesity is a chronic disease, like high blood pressure or diabetes. Obesity indicates that the body weight is much greater than what is considered healthy. Adults with a BMI greater than 30 are considered obese. The BMI is a measure of your weight relative to your height. Obesity refers to an increase in total body fat. Obesity is on the rise in our society because food is abundant and life style is sedentary.

Symptoms

The immediate symptoms of obesity include:

• Shortness of breath
• Excessive perspiration
• Sleep disorders
• Snoring
• Tiredness
• Unable to do physical activity
• Pain in the back and joints

Causes

A person becomes obese when he/she consumes more food than the body can use, and all the extra calories are converted into fat. Heredity as well as shared environment at home can cause obesity. Some people overeat even if they are not hungry because of depression, desperation, anger, and boredom, Hypothyroidism or pregnancy. Certain medications, such as steroids, antidepressants, birth control pills, can also cause obesity. A sedentary life style with no exercise and excessive intake of alcohol can also cause obesity.

Risk to Others

Genetic factors play an important part in developing obesity. Children of obese parents are more likely to be obese than children with parents of normal weight. Overeating, poor nutrition and sedentary habits are the most important risk factors for obesity. Certain illnesses, such as Cushing's syndrome or hypothyroidism, and medications, such as glucocorticoids, can also increase the chances of obesity.

Risk to Sufferer

Obesity increases a person's risk of illness and death due to  diabetes, high cholesterol levels, stroke, heart disease, high blood pressure, coronary artery disease, arthritis, gallstones, female infertility, amenorrhea, certain types of cancer, high cholesterol, and kidney and gallbladder disease. It is also a risk factor for the development of osteoarthritis and sleep apnea. It can also cause psychological distress. It causes reduced life expectancy on the whole.

Treatment

A weight-loss program may include exercise, a low-fat, high-complex carbohydrate, high fibre diet, reducing alcohol consumption, and positive thinking. Prescription weight loss drugs are an option for some people. There are many over-the-counter diet products but most are unsuccessful and can be dangerous. Surgery may be an option for those people who are unable to lose weight by other methods. Stress, frustration, and boredom should be avoided.

It is caused by injury to or wear and tear of the joints over the years.

Target Group

Osteoarthritis most commonly affects middle-aged and older people. Osteoarthritis usually appears in middle age and is present in almost everyone by the age of 70.

Type of Disease

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in older people. Cartilage is the tissue that pads bones in a joint. The chronic disease causes the cushioning (cartilage) between the bone joints to wear away, leaving bones that rub against each other, resulting in pain and stiffness. It can also cause new pieces of bone, called bone spurs, to grow around the joints. Depending on the probable causes osteoarthritis is classified as primary or secondary. Primary osteoarthritis occurs without any type of injury or identifiable cause. Secondary osteoarthritis is caused due to another disease or underlying condition.

Symptoms

The most common symptoms are:

• Gradual onset of joint pain
• Morning stiffness
• Difficulty in movement
• Pain during light or weight bearing exercises
• Swelling and tenderness in the joints
• Pain is often relieved after rest
• Disability

Affected Areas

Osteoarthritis most commonly affects the large weight bearing joints of the body, such as hips, knees or the spine. It can also affect the hands, neck, and lower back.

Causes

Most of the time, the cause of osteoarthritis is unknown. It is primarily related to aging. Obesity, work related injuries and injuries due to sports are also part of the causes of Osteoarthritis. Persons born with defective cartilage or with slight defects in the way that joints fit together may develop osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis in the hands or hips may run in families. Osteoarthritis in the knees may be due to obesity. Injuries or overuse may cause osteoarthritis in joints such as knees, hips, or hands. The most common causes of secondary OA are metabolic conditions, problems with anatomy, such as being bow-legged, injury, or inflammatory disorders like septic arthritis.

Risk to Others

The risk factors of osteoarthritis are obesity, scoliosis, and being double jointed. Sports profession of soccer, athletics, and ballet dancing can also put one at a higher risk of osteoarthritis.

Risk to Sufferer

Disability is the main complication of osteoarthritis, which interferes with a person's day to day living, such as bathing, walking, or cooking.

Treatment

Weight loss, exercise, adequate rest, good nutrition, physical therapy, heat and cold therapy, pain medication are some of the most common treatments. Nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, may be administered to reduce pain and swelling. Sometimes, steroids may be injected directly into the joint. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are given. Artificial joint fluid Synvisc can be injected into the knee, Splints and braces can sometimes support weakened joints. Surgery takes place to repair damaged joints in severe cases.

Osteoporosis is an illness of excessive demineralization of bone. This condition usually arises around the age of 35 when more bone cells are lost than replaced. This condition leads to the decrease in bone density.

Target Group

This disease is far more common in women after menopause owing to the loss of the hormone estrogen. However by the age of 75 both the sexes become equally prone to bone loss.

Type of Ailment

This ailment can be resolved by a change in sedentary lifestyles. Regular exercise can be a treatment or prevention of osteoporosis. One should start exercising at early symptoms (joint or muscle pain) before they reach the advanced stage.

Symptoms

In the early stages there may be no indication of gradual thinning of bones. One may experience pain in joints and muscles. However the symptoms of advanced osteoporosis are thin bones, weak bones, brittle bones, repeated fractures, backache, spine deformation, and loss of height.

Affected Area

There are two main types of bones like hard compact bone and spongy bone; both are found in the same bone. Spongy bone, which is found in vertebrate, ribs, breastbone, skull, and pelvis, are all prone to osteoporosis fracture.

Causes

The first sign is usually a fall, which may cause a bone fracture, which may be painful and cause disability. An early menopause in woman may also lead to the condition as bone loss speeds up after menopause.

• Decreased calcium absorption by the body
• Inadequate dietary intake of vitamin D
• Inadequate exposure to the sun
• Decreased ability to produce vitamin D
• Other less common factors are genetic factors, insufficient sex hormones and body weight

Risk to Others

There is no risk involved to others.

Risk to Sufferer

These fractures may not heal quickly. The hip fracture requires major surgery and hospitalisation. One may not be able to walk without assistance and hence increase their dependence. Elderly people have more complications to fracture healing which can lead to death.

Piles are enlargements that develop from three pads of tissues which line the anal passage. In normal cases this tissue acts as a compressible lining which allows the anus to close completely so that there is no leakage. Piles are also referred as Hemorrhoids.

Target Group

Piles are more common in people who suffer from constipation and are overweight. Pregnant woman may also suffer with piles due to being overweight.

Type of Ailment

• First-degree haemorrhoids: Haemorrhoids which bleed but do not prolapse
• Second-degree haemorrhoids: Haemorrhoids which retract and prolapse on they own which may be followed by bleeding
• Third-degree haemorrhoids: Haemorrhoids which prolapse but must be pushed back in by a finger
• Fourth-degree haemorrhoids: Haemorrhoids which prolapse and cannot be pushed back in. They may also be haemorrhoids that are thrombosed (containing blood clots)

Symptoms

The symptoms often include:

• Very acute pain, particularly during bowel movements
• Anal itching
• Pain while sitting for long hours
• Lumps formed near the anus
• Blood loss from anus (bright red blood may be seen in stools)

Affected Area

Hemorrhoids affect the anal canal and the area around the anus causing pain and sometimes bleeding also.

Causes

• Piles are caused because of the swelling in the blood vessels or increased pressure in the abdomen
• Inadequate intake of fibrous diet
• Constipation
• Tumors inside the pelvis

Risk to Others

There is no risk involved to others.

Risk to Sufferer

Sometimes hemorrhoids may lead to Gangrene which requires medical attention. There may be bleeding while passing stools, stools may leak into the anal skin causing itching. Sometimes there may be a risk of anal stricture and injury to the sphincter.

Treatment

Sometimes the piles may improve even without treatment. Certain creams and lotions can be used to sooth the itching and pain, stop the bleeding and control swelling. Witch hazel on cotton wool applied around the anus may reduce itching. By eating high fibre diet and drinking plenty of water constipation can be avoided. Persistent and painful piles may require surgery.

It is a syndrome which frequently occurs in many women from 2 to 14 days before the onset of menstruation. It is also known as dysphoric disorder.

Target Group

PMS affects menstruating women from puberty to menopause. About 75% of menstruating women are affected by it but it is not so severe so as to interfere with their daily work or life.

Type of Ailment

Most menstruating women between the age group of 20 to 40 experience some form of premenstrual syndrome. There are a number of emotional, physical, and psychological disturbances which menstruating women undergo during PMS. These problems start with a woman's ovulation and ends once menstruation starts.

Symptoms

The most common physical and emotional symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome include:

• Weight gain from fluid retention
• Mood swings
• Breast tenderness
• Abdominal bloating
• Anger and irritability
• Anxiety and tension
• Crying spells
• Food cravings
• Depression
• Headache
• Muscle and joint pain
• Fatigue
• Insomnia

Affected Area

The organs affected by PMS are female sex organs, the uterus, and the ovaries.

Causes

The exact cause of premenstrual syndrome is not known but there are several factors which can act as triggers. These include: hormonal changes, poor and unbalanced diet, Vitamin and Mineral deficiencies, chemical changes in the brain, stress, depression, and consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages.

Risk to Others

There are various factors which can put one at a high risk of PMS. Lack of exercise, high levels of stress, excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption, and unbalanced diet puts women at risk of PMS. The other risk factors are: stress, anxiety, and family history of premenstrual syndrome, deficiency of Vitamin B6, magnesium, and calcium.

Risk to Sufferer

Severe form of premenstrual syndrome can cause severe depression and tension. It can also cause a psychiatric disorder known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Accidents can also take place due to poor concentration and coordination.

Treatment

Simple changes in the lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet, low in carbohydrates and salt, can help in reducing the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be taken before or at the start of the menstruation to ease the symptoms of breast tenderness and cramping. Oral contraceptives are also prescribed to stop ovulation and alleviate hormonal swings. Antidepressants can also be used.

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that is associated with psoriasis, which is a chronic skin condition characterised by inflamed, red, raised areas that develop silvery scales.

Target Group

It can affect people of all age groups and can occur in men and women equally.

Type of Disease

This disease is often associated with psoriasis of the skin. Psoriasis is a common, chronic skin condition that causes red patches on the body. People suffering from psoriasis are more likely to develop arthritis. The arthritis is usually mild and only a few joints are affected. In a few cases the disease is severe and usually affects the fingers and the spine.

Symptoms

The chief symptoms of psoriatic arthritis are:

• Skin lesions of psoriasis
• Abnormalities in the nails
• Swelling in the joints
• Pain in the joints
• Wrist and elbow pain
• Knee and ankle pain
• Hip pain
• Pain in Achilles tendon
• Pains in the joints of fingers and toes
• Swelling and tenderness at the attachment of tendons to the bone

Affected Area

Psoriatic arthritis is generally mild and involves only a few joints, usually the fingers, toes and the spine.

Causes

The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is not known, but genetic factors can play an important role in its development. Most of the people with psoriatic arthritis do have other family members with psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.

Risk to Sufferer

The most common complication is a repeated occurrence of psoriatic arthritis.

Treatment

Treatment of psoriatic arthritis involves medications, patient education, physical therapy, adequate rest and exercise, heat and cold applications, hydro therapy, and occupational therapy. In severe cases, which are rare, surgery to repair damaged joints will be performed. Psoriasis treatment is necessary if the patient is suffering from psoriasis. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications or salicylates are used to reduce the pain and swelling of the joints. More severe arthritis requires treatment with more powerful drugs called disease modifying antirheumatic drugs. Rarely, particularly painful joints may be injected with steroid medications.

Q fever is a disease, which is caused mainly by the bacteria Coxiella burnetti. This bacterium is usually found in animals like sheep, cattle, goat, ticks, rabbits, cats, dogs, and even birds. Coxiella burnette can survive in dust for months together and hence humans can get infected when they come in contact with the contaminated dust.

Target Group

People who are usually infected by these bacteria are the ones who work with animals, or products produced by them. These people are usually farm workers, woolworkers, slaughterhouse workers, veterinarians, and people working in the meat plant house.

Type of Ailment

Q fever is not a medically distinct infection but may be similar to a viral infection or pneumonia. Chronic Q fever, which is not very common, is considered a more serious illness Q fever may turn into a chronic form if it continues for more than six months.

Symptoms

The person may have symptoms like:

• High fever up to 105 F
• Nausea and  vomiting
• Sore throat and cough
• Chills
• Sweats
• Muscle pain
• Acute chest pain
• Stomach pain

Affected Area

The other problems that are associated with this illness are inflammation of the heart muscle, inflammation of liver, inflammation of the outer layers of the brain and spinal cord, or of the brain. There are also chances of developing pneumonia.

Causes

• Inhalation of bacteria that may be in the air
• Intake of contaminated raw milk
• Infected ticks bites
• Coming in contact of contaminated bird fluids and faeces of infected animal

Risk to Others

Others are at a minimum risk as the disease does not spread from person to person.

Risk to Sufferer

Only around 50% of people infected with the bacteria show symptoms of illness. Most people recover completely. Very few patients die of Q fever but people suffering with chronic illness may have further complications, which may be serious.

Treatment

Q fever may not require any treatment, as it is a self-limited illness. Antibiotics like Tetracycline and Doxycycline are effective for treatment. However chronic Q fever may be difficult to treat.

A simple rash is generally an inflammation on the skin which may be itchy. It may be the change in the colour and texture of the skin. A rash may indicate that the body has reacted to something.

Target Group

A rash can occur in anybody, but people with sensitive skin, very oily skin or very dry skin are more prone to it. Weather extremes, using various harmful lotions, stress and fatigue can also worsen the situation.

Type of Ailment

This ailment can be of various types depending on the symptoms and the cause of the rash. Some are:

• Discoid rash - This rash is small red flaky and in coin shape. They generally appear on the face but, can appear on the other parts of the body.
• The Photosensitive Butterfly or Malar Rash - Known for its typical butterfly shape over the nose and cheeks, a butterfly rash can appear and disappear without any pain or itching. It is photosensitive, which means that sun or other ultraviolet exposure can make the rash worse.
• Seborrheic Dermatitis - This rash emerges in patches of redness and scaling around the eyebrows, eyelids, mouth, nose, the trunk, and behind the ears. If it occurs on the scalp, it is called dandruff in adults and cradle cap in infants.
• Eczema - This rash may be red, itchy and scaly and appear in people with allergies or asthma.

Symptoms

• Itchy skin
• Redness on the skin
• Burning sensation or pain
• Sudden breakouts and eruptions on the skin

Affected Area

Since it appears on the skin it can affect any part of the body. It may appear on the eyes, nose, face, hands, legs etc.

Causes

A rash may occur when:

• Your skin comes in contact with dyes, chemicals in clothing and rubber products
• Use of cosmetics, soaps and detergents
• Poison ivy or poison oak
• Allergies and asthma
• Infection from bacteria
• Insect bites or stings
• Reaction of medicines
• Dandruff
• Certain diseases like chickenpox, measles, rubella, scarlet fever can cause a rash

Risk to Sufferer

A major skin rash may cause severe irritation to the patient, making him or her uncomfortable and restless. It may also be a sign of some serious ailment.

Treatment

Hydrocortisone cream can be applied to soothe many rashes. One can apply oatmeal bath products or moisturisers to relieve symptoms of eczema, shingles and psoriasis. Doctor may also prescribe some lotions and creams to relieve itching. Most simple rashes will show signs of improvement with skin care.

Schizophrenia is a brain disease, which may be chronic, acute and cause disability. The person may have disordered thinking which may make him or her unable to function normally in social life.

Target Group

Schizophrenia is not restricted to any class, race, community, culture or social class of people. It can affect both the genders equally (both men and woman are prone to it).

Type of Ailment

It is a mental illness so the person is not aware of the patient's behaviour. His thoughts, feelings and actions may not co ordinate at all. The patient's irrational behaviour and disturbed emotions may be the consequence of the person's impaired sense of reality.

Symptoms

Most of the Schizophrenia symptoms are related to human behaviour:

• There might be outrageous and confusing changes in behavior
• A person might suffer from hallucination
• There is a lack of sentiments, interest and motivation
• The person might feels somebody watching them or plotting against them
• The person might feels that others are trying to control his thoughts and emotions
• The person's speech, thinking and behavior do not co ordinate
• The person may freeze like a statue or may become restless

Affected Area

Since Schizophrenia is a mental ailment the area usually affected is the brain.

Causes

The precise cause of Schizophrenia is known and hence cannot prevent it from occurring. Genetic and behaviour disorder may lead to Schizophrenia. Any emotional trauma may also trigger the illness.

Risk to Others

People who have a close relative with schizophrenia are more prone to develop the disorder than the people who have no relatives with the ailment. There's evidence of a genetic predisposition. The risk is high if a child has a schizophrenic parent (10%) or identical twin (50%). Besides this it may be difficult for the family members to cope with the patient's psychotic behaviour.

Risk to Sufferer

People suffering from this illness may get violent and harm themselves or others. Trying to commit suicide is a serious danger in people who have schizophrenia. If an individual tries to commit suicide or threatens to do so, professional help should be sought right away.

Treatment

Patients may be treated with medication in the form of tablets or long-acting injections. It is not possible to tell in advance as to which medication will act the best for an individual. Drug adjustments may be needed. Counseling may be required for people suffering from this disease. Society support is very important for the patients.

Target Group

Men and women are affected equally by shingles. It occurs mostly in older people and those whose immunity level is low.

Type of Disease

Shingles is a skin rash caused by the same virus which causes chickenpox. This virus lies dormant in the nerves of the person who has previously had chickenpox and reactivates years later as shingles. Certain conditions, such as emotional stress, immune deficiency, or cancer, can reactivate the virus.

Symptoms

The various symptoms of shingles are:

• Pain and burning
• Itching and tingling
• Numbness
• Extreme sensitivity in certain body parts
• A red rash on the affected nerve
• Fluid filled blisters
• Fever
• Headache
• Stomach upset
• Chills

Eventually, the blisters burst and the area starts to ooze. After some time the area heals by drying up and forming a crust. This whole disease takes a month to run its course.

Affected Area

The shingles rash occurs on only one side of the body along the path of a particular nerve. It often appears as a group of blisters that starts from the middle of the back, to the chest, and breastbone. Occasionally, the shingles rash affects one eye or one side of the neck or face.

Causes

Shingles is caused by a second outbreak of the varicella-zoster virus which causes chickenpox also. These viruses lie dormant in the nervous system after an initial infection for several years before attacking again. Shingles can attack anyone who's had chickenpox.

Risk to Others

Pregnant women, newborns, people with weak immune system, and those who have never had chickenpox are at a high risk of getting shingles. Shingles are contagious and can be contracted by children and adults from an infected person. Recurrence of shingles is also common.

Risk to Sufferer

Occasionally, the shingles blisters can become infected with a bacteria causing cellulitis. Shingles on the face can cause loss of vision, loss of facial movement, and hearing problems. Shingles can also lead to post herpetic neuralgia in which the pain in the rash area persists long after the rash disappears. Other complications include encephalitis and other neurological problems.

Treatment

Oral anti viral drugs, such as acyclovir or valacyclovir, are prescribed to reduce the duration and severity of the rash. Medicines to relieve acute pain may be required. The affected area should be covered and be kept dry. Topical lotions can be used to dry the blisters.

Stomach cancer refers to the abnormal cell growth forming a mass known as 'tumour' in the stomach.

Target Group

Stomach cancer seldom affects people under age 40, and is more common in people over the age of 55. It is twice as common in men as in women. It is more common in people of African descent than in people of Caucasian descent.

Type of Ailment

There are three major types of stomach cancers: Lymphomas, Gastric stromal tumours, and Carcinoid tumours. Lymphomas are cancers of the immune system tissue that are occasionally found in the wall of the stomach. Gastric stromal tumours develop from the tissue of the stomach wall. Carcinoid tumours are caused by the tumours of hormone-producing cells of the stomach.

Symptoms

The various symptoms of stomach cancer are:

• Lack of appetite and weight loss
• Uneasiness in the abdomen, often above the navel
• Pain in a specific area of the stomach
• Feeling of fullness below the chest bone even after eating a small meal
• Heartburn, indigestion or ulcer-type symptoms
• Nausea and Vomiting with or without blood
• Abdominal swelling
• Fatigue and weakness

Affected Area

It affects the abdomen, causing pain and swelling which may further spread to the other organs of the body.

Causes

The various factors responsible are environmental like dust, molds, fumes, and other environmental means at home or in the workplace. Infection in the stomach may also implicate cancers. Wrong diet that may include high salt intake and preservatives called nitrates, which are found in salted, pickled, or smoked foods. The low intake of green leafy vegetables can be some dietary factors which play a role in the development of stomach cancer.

Risk of Cancer

Brothers, sisters and children of those who have had stomach cancer are at higher risk of lung cancer themselves.

Risk to Sufferer

Once diagnosed stomach cancer requires immediate treatment otherwise it may become life threatening.

Treatment

The treatment includes radiation therapy (the use of high-energy rays to shrink or kill cancer cells. It causes mild skin problems, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or fatigue) Chemotherapy (drugs kill cancer cells, they also damage some normal cells and this can lead to side effects) and surgery (removal of the affected part of the stomach).

Teething is the emergence of teeth through the gums of the mouth in infants and young children. Teething is the process of teeth moving and breaking through the gums. This is a normal developmental stage for your baby. Some babies get their first tooth a little earlier and others a little later.

Target Group

Infants and young children usually in the age group of 5 months to 3 years are affected.

Type of Disease

Although timing varies widely, most babies lose their toothless grins by about age 6 months. Often, the two middle bottom teeth come through the gums first, followed by the middle four upper teeth. By the time children are 30 months (2 1/2 years) of age, all 20 baby teeth are usually present. These teeth include 4 incisors, 2 canines, and 4 molars in each jaw for the total of 20. The 2 lower central incisors (bottom front) usually erupt first followed by the 2 upper central incisors, and then the lower and upper lateral (side) incisors, lower molars, upper molars, lower canines, upper canines, lower lateral molars, and finally the upper lateral molars. Teething can be an ordeal for parents and babies alike.

Symptoms

There are several symptoms of teething:

• Drooling
• Bulging gums
• Irritability and crankiness
• Swollen gums
• Chewing on hard, solid things
• Difficulty in sleeping
• Waking up at night

Affected Area

The mouth, gums, and face are affected by this developmental stage in children called teething.

Causes

The uneasiness and discomfort due to teething is caused by the pressure exerted on the tissue in the mouth, called the periodontal membrane, as the teeth come out.

Risk to Sufferer

There may be a rash on the baby's face, lips, chin, neck, and chest due to excessive drooling. Mild diarrhoea and fever can also occur. Excessive saliva running down the baby's throat can cause coughing.

Treatment

This discomfort of teething may be eased by a cool object such as a firm rubber teething ring or a cold apple. Gently massaging the gums with a cool, wet washcloth, or a clean finger, can also help to relieve the discomfort. Excessive drooling should be wiped dry with a clean and soft cloth to prevent skin rash. The gums should not be cut to facilitate the eruption of teeth since infection can result. Teething powders should also be avoided. Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can be taken for relieving pain and getting some sleep.

It is the cancer of the thyroid gland. This gland is situated in the front of neck that produces thyroid hormone which is important for normal regulation of the metabolism of the body.

Target Group

This cancer affects the woman more than the men. People in the age group of 25 and 65 are more prone to it. Patients with the history of radiation in childhood have increased risk of cancer.

Type of Ailment

There are four types of thyroid cancer:

• Papillary thyroid cancer
• Follicular thyroid cancer
• Medullary thyroid cancer
• Anaplastic thyroid cancer

The treatment may vary according to different type of cancer.

Symptoms

• It usually starts of with a single, painless lump in the neck, which may increase gradually
• There may be difficulty in swallowing in the oesophagus
• There may be difficulty in breathing in the windpipe
• There may hoarseness or loss of voice

A person should not ignore any lumps felt in the neck and visit the doctor immediately.

Affected Area

It affects the thyroid gland and in advanced stages can spread to the other parts of the body.

Causes

The actual cause of thyroid cancer is unknown, however exposure of the neck area to the radiation may increase the risk of cancer. This may happen when radiotherapy is given in childhood or radiation exposure due to nuclear fallout. Risk of developing medullary cancer could be if one has a family history of cancer.

Risk to Others

Doctors may not be able to explain why one person gets this disease and another does not. Thyroid cancer is not contagious. It cannot spread from one person to another.

Risk to Sufferer

Treatment of cancer has some side effects; chemotherapy is very painful and makes the person lose hair. It has further complications. Moreover, cancer in advanced stages can be life threatening.

Treatment

Treatment depends on a number of factors like age, health, type of tumour, and at the stage of the cancer.

• Surgery is often used to treat cancer. The whole thyroid gland may be removed or a part of it depending on stage of cancer
• Lymph nodes may also be removed if they have cancer cells.
• Radioactive iodine treatment may be necessary after surgery.
• Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are used to treat cancer that has spread to the other parts of the body.

Tonsillitis is an infection of the tonsils caused by a virus or a bacterium. The tonsils are a pair of small almond-shaped organs located inside the mouth on both sides of the throat. In tonsillitis, the tonsils are enlarged, red, and often coated by a substance that is yellow, gray, or white.

Target Group

It is usually young who are affected by tonsillitis but adults also get it too.

Type of Ailment

It is also known as acute sore throat. Chronic tonsillitis is a term which implies to enlargement of the tonsils accompanied by repeated attacks of infection.

Symptoms

The chief symptom of tonsillitis is a sore throat which may develop suddenly or gradually. It can be either mild or severe. The various symptoms which the child may suffer are:

• Difficulty in swallowing
• Intense pain in swallowing which may stop the child from swallowing saliva
• High fever
• Headache
• Pain in the abdomen
• Ear ache
• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• General body pain
• Bad breath

Affected Area

It affects the oval masses of lymphoid tissue at the back of the throat; also causes earache, stomach pain and general pain in the body.

Causes

The chief cause of tonsillitis is a toxic state of the system resulting from exposure and sudden chill. Tonsils enlarge and get inflamed when the toxins cannot be thrown out through the normal channels of elimination such as the bowels, kidneys and skin. Throat infections of this kind are associated with the result of chronic constipation. Toxins which should have been ejected from the system in the normal way, is reabsorbed into the blood-stream.

Risk to Others

Tonsillitis in general spreads from person to person by contact with the throat or nasal fluids of someone who is already infected.

Risk to Sufferer

Sometimes tonsillitis may cause difficulty breathing and talking. If it reoccurs, your doctor may recommend taking them out because it can be seriously diseased and contain hopelessly incurable pus pockets.

Treatment

Treatment for tonsillitis depends on whether it has been caused by a virus or bacteria. If the tonsillitis was caused by strep bacteria, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics. If the tonsillitis was caused by a virus, the body will fight off the infection by itself. Medication can be prescribed to alleviate the symptoms.

The abnormal growth of fibroid tumour seen in the uterus of the women is called uterine fibroid tumour.

Target Group

Uterine fibroid tumours may develop in women only after the onset of menstruation when the female body begins producing oestrogen. They are diagnosed in black women two to three times more frequently than in white women.

Type of Ailment

The various types of fibroid tumours are:

• Subserous fibroids which grow on the outer wall of the uterus and show no symptoms until they are large enough to interfere with other organs
• Submucosal fibroids occur just below the lining of the uterus and can cause menstrual problems
• Intramural uterine fibroid tumors are located within the uterine wall and increase in uterine size as they grow
• Pendunculated leiomyomas develop when a subserous fibroid grows into a stalk that may become twisted
• Parasitic uterine fibroids are the rarest type, which may develop when a fibroid tumor attaches itself to another organ

Symptoms

Sometimes there may be no symptoms but otherwise the symptoms could include:

• pain in pelvic region
• excessive bleeding during menstruation that may last for more than seven days
• painful sexual intercourse
• in case of large fibroids urination may be painful

Affected Area

Since it grows in the uterus of the woman it may interfere with the reproductive system.

Causes

The factors that initiate fibroid growth are unknown. The majority of fibroids occur in women of reproductive age, and they are rarely seen in young women who have not begun menstruation and they generally stabilise or regress in women who have passed  menopause.

Risk to Others

There are chances of it being passed on by mother to her daughters in case of family history fibroid tumours.

Risk to Sufferer

In rare cases, the fibroid tumour may be cancerous.

Treatment

The cure for uterine fibroids is hysterectomy. Other alternatives are available for the treatment of fibroid tumours. However, many of these treatments may have side effects and complications. One should learn about it before making decision about treating the fibroid tumours.

Valley fever is a type of fungus infection. It is caused by the fungus called Coccidioides immitis. The fungus that causes valley fever is frequently found in the soil.

Target Group

Anybody can develop valley fever. However, farmers, construction workers, and others who engage in activities that disturb the soil are at maximum risk for valley fever. People with compromised immune systems are also at an increased risk for contracting valley fever. The fungus that causes valley fever is usually found in the soil of the southwestern United States, Mexico, and parts of Central and South America.

Type of Ailment

Valley fever may also be called coccidioidomycosis and disseminated valley fever.

Symptoms

In most cases, symptoms are not present. If symptoms are present, the most common symptoms are:

• High fever
• fatigue and tiredness
• cough and cold
• rash on the body
• pain in the chest
• loss of appetite
• sweating
• muscle aches
• general pain in the body

Affected Area

Since it is a fungal infection and causes fever, it raises the body temperature and makes the person lethargic and sluggish.

Causes

The fungus which causes valley fever lives in soil and is spread through inhalation of airborne spores. The soil containing valley fever fungus may spread via construction, natural disasters, or wind, into the air. When these fungal spores are inhaled by people, they can develop valley fever.

Risk to Others

Valley fever does not spread from person to person.

Risk to Sufferer

Valley fever is a type of fungus infection which usually affects the lungs and cause damage to them. In severe cases, it can even cause death.

Treatment

Valley fever is can be treated with medication. Valley fever can be diagnosed through blood tests and treated with respective medication. Antibiotics and drugs which kill the fungus are used as effective treatment.

Vitiligo is a very common skin condition in which there is loss of pigment from areas of skin resulting in irregular white patches with normal skin texture.

Target Group

Both men and women, and people of all races are equally affected by this skin disorder. The condition can occur at any age, but usually starts before the age of 20.

Type of Disease

Vitiligo is not infectious and it cannot be passed from contact with an affected person. In this disorder the special skin cells, known as melanocytes, which produce pigment melanin in the skin and the tissues, are destroyed. Thus different parts of the body are characterized by white patches of skin. The hair in the affected parts may also turn white. The severity of the disorder and the areas of the skin infected vary from case to case. Sometimes the patches are limited to small areas known as focal vitiligo. Sometimes they spread across several large areas of skin known as generalized vitiligo. It is termed segmental when the patches occur on one side of the body.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of vitiligo are:

• Flat, white patches on the skin
• Loss of colour in the mucous membranes
• Change of colour in the retina
• Premature greying of hair, eyebrows, beard, and eyelashes
• Stress and  anxiety due to aesthetic concerns

Affected Area

Vitiligo can affect any part of the skin but usually those parts that are frequently exposed to the sun, such as the face, neck, arms, elbows, knees, and hands. It is more prominent on people with dark or tanned skin. In some cases vitiligo can develop on the scalp, causing the hair in that area to turn grey.

Causes

Vitiligo is caused when the melonacytes are destroyed and are unable to produce melanin. It is mostly a hereditary disease. These cells can be destroyed by themselves or by a weak immune system. A severe sunburn or hyperthyroidism can also act as triggers. Any emotional trauma can also trigger vitiligo.

Risk to Others

A family history of vitiligo and having dark, pigmented skin are the probable risk factors for vitiligo. Pernicious anaemia, hyperthyroidism, and Addison's disease are linked with vitiligo.

Risk to Sufferer

The affected areas are more prone to sunburn and certain skin cancers. These white patches cause severe emotional and psychological trauma to the patient resulting in depression and low confidence levels.

Treatment

There is no cure for vitiligo but treatments can help the overall appearance of the skin. These include oral medications, topical medications, corticosteroid creams, immuno suppressants, skin camouflage, skin grafting, and exposure to ultraviolet rays. A high factor sunscreen should be used to prevent sunburn.

Vomiting is referred as throwing out or emitting the stomach contents from the mouth.

Target Group

Anybody who is unwell may have the urge to vomit. It is not restricted to a particular ailment.

Type of Ailment

The sub types of vomiting are:

• Felling of uneasiness
• Nausea
• Regurgitation (refers to emitting already swallowed food)
• Pain in the abdomen
• Fever
• Dizziness
• Giddiness

Symptoms

The symptoms of vomiting can be associated to the illness the person may be suffering from.

Affected Area

Vomiting means emitting the stomach content which could relate to various illnesses and can affect any part of the body.

Causes

The various reasons which could lead to vomiting are:

• Stomach being upset
• Virus in the stomach
• Gastroenteritis
• Appendicitis
• Food poisoning
• Allergy to food
• Reflux
• Pregnancy
• Traveling by air or road

Risk to Sufferer

Acute vomiting and vomiting blood might indicate some serious ailment in the body. Vomiting could be a result of kidney failure, brain tumour, cholera, vertigo, brain infection, acute glaucoma, liver diseases and damages, mountain sickness, gynaecological disorders, hyperglycemia, diabetic keto acidos, addiction to drugs and eating disorders like bulimia.

Treatment

Treatment for vomiting might vary according to the symptoms. Vomiting due to stomach infection may require medications to stop the pain.

Food poisoning may require I.V drugs, vomiting due to intake of drugs make require drug therapy, doctors may prescribe medicines for pregnant women to stop morning sickness; similarly prior medications can be taken to avoid vomiting during travelling by air or road.

But excessive vomiting indicates to some serious illness like stomach ulcers, gallstones, stomach cancer, intestinal obstruction, then hospitalisation is required.