Disease Index starting with - a

Acidity is a prevalent condition that nearly everyone encounters at least once in their life. It occurs when the stomach produces an excessive amount of acid, resulting in discomfort. Along with stomach unease, it can cause other symptoms like a sour taste in the mouth, difficulty swallowing, and indigestion.

The causes of acidity range from unhealthy eating habits and high stress levels to the use of certain medications. Lifestyle choices, such as smoking or consuming foods high in oil, fats, and spices, can also increase the likelihood of experiencing acidity.

Occasional acidity is generally harmless and doesn’t indicate an underlying health issue. However, frequent episodes—occurring two or more days per week—might point to a more serious condition. In such cases, consulting a doctor is recommended.

Simple lifestyle changes and natural remedies like tulsi leaves, mint, fennel seeds, or cold milk can help manage acidity. Over-the-counter medications that reduce or neutralize stomach acid are also widely effective.

Acne, medically known as acne vulgaris, is a widespread skin condition that most individuals encounter at some stage of life. It occurs when the skin’s pores and hair follicles become clogged with sebum, an oily substance produced by the glands in the skin. Although acne commonly appears on the face, it can also affect areas like the chest, shoulders, and upper back.

There are two primary types of acne: comedogenic and non-comedogenic. Comedogenic acne is generally non-inflammatory and manifests as blackheads or whiteheads. In contrast, non-comedogenic acne is inflammatory, often presenting as red, painful, and pus-filled blemishes.

Treatment for acne typically includes topical, systemic, and lifestyle interventions. Topical treatments may involve medicated cleansers or ointments, while systemic treatments include antibiotics or hormonal therapies. Lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a clean diet, staying hydrated, and exercising regularly also play a significant role. Addressing acne promptly can reduce the likelihood of developing scars.

Addison’s disease is a rare condition that occurs when the adrenal glands, located atop the kidneys, fail to produce adequate amounts of the steroid hormones cortisol and aldosterone. These hormones are essential for the normal functioning of the body.

The symptoms of Addison's disease typically develop gradually and may include abdominal pain, muscle weakness, and unintentional weight loss. In some cases, areas of the skin may darken.

This condition predominantly affects women in middle age. Risk factors include certain medications, sepsis, and bleeding into both adrenal glands.

The primary treatment for Addison's disease is hormone replacement therapy, which is usually required for life. Ongoing medical monitoring and follow-up care are essential to manage the disease and address any other health complications.

Have you ever felt discomfort in your ears while flying, particularly during takeoff or landing? This condition, known as airplane ear, is characterized by pain, discomfort, and a sensation of fullness in the ears. It occurs due to sudden changes in pressure during air travel.

Although airplane ear can affect anyone on a flight, it is more common in individuals with conditions like the common cold, sinusitis, allergic rhinitis, or middle ear infections. Infants and young children are especially prone to this condition when traveling by air.

Preventing airplane ear is simple and involves techniques like yawning, chewing gum, or swallowing during the flight. For infants and toddlers, breastfeeding, using a pacifier, or drinking fluids through a sipper or straw can help alleviate symptoms.

This condition typically resolves on its own, responds well to preventive methods, and improves after air travel.

Allergies occur when the body's immune system reacts abnormally to substances called allergens. These allergens are present in the environment, but typically do not trigger an immune response in most people. However, in individuals with allergies, the immune system produces antibodies against these foreign substances, leading to inflammation and a range of symptoms that can vary in severity.

Allergic reactions can include mild symptoms such as sneezing, a runny nose, facial swelling, tongue swelling, skin rashes, itching, and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, anaphylaxis can occur, which is a life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate treatment.

Allergies are common worldwide and can be triggered by various allergens, including dust, molds, mites, certain foods like nuts and fish, and medications such as penicillin. Treatment for allergies typically involves antihistamines, steroids, and over-the-counter medications to alleviate symptoms.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive condition of the brain that leads to memory loss. It is marked by difficulties in thinking, reasoning, language, and perception, eventually impacting the ability to perform everyday tasks.

The precise cause of Alzheimer's disease remains unclear, but the accumulation of amyloid plaques and tangled fibers known as neurofibrillary or tau tangles in the brain are believed to contribute.

Alzheimer's disease is not a normal part of aging, nor is it an inevitable occurrence in older adults. However, the risk of developing Alzheimer's increases significantly with age. Factors such as age-related brain changes, genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices are thought to influence the risk of this condition.

While Alzheimer's may not be fully preventable, maintaining an active social life and regularly engaging in social, physical, and cognitive activities like reading, playing games, attending adult education programs, and enjoying other recreational activities can delay its onset.

Currently available medications for Alzheimer's can help temporarily alleviate memory loss and other cognitive symptoms. Caregivers play a crucial role in assisting the individual with daily activities and ensuring their safety.

Amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstrual periods during a woman's reproductive years. It can be classified into two types: primary and secondary. Primary amenorrhea occurs when a woman has never experienced menstrual periods, while secondary amenorrhea is the absence of periods in someone who had previously menstruated.

Primary amenorrhea can be caused by issues with the ovaries, reproductive organs, the pituitary gland, or the central nervous system. Secondary amenorrhea can be attributed to natural factors such as pregnancy or breastfeeding, or other factors like low body weight, stress, excessive physical activity, hormonal imbalances, and the use of birth control pills.

Diagnosing amenorrhea typically requires a series of tests, including pregnancy tests, thyroid function tests, ovary function assessments, male hormone tests, and prolactin tests. Treatment is based on the underlying cause of the condition. Hormone replacement therapy may be used if a hormonal imbalance is found. In cases where malnutrition is the cause, a proper diet plan can help resolve the issue. Surgery may be necessary to address any anatomical abnormalities causing amenorrhea.

An anal fissure is a small tear, crack, or open sore in the skin around the anus that may extend into the anal canal. It typically occurs as a result of trauma to the area.

Common symptoms of an anal fissure include pain, burning, and bleeding during or after bowel movements. The condition can be triggered by constipation, chronic diarrhea, pregnancy, childbirth, or in some cases, an underlying health issue.

Preventing an anal fissure involves lifestyle and dietary changes. A high-fiber diet, including vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains, helps maintain regular bowel movements. Staying hydrated, limiting alcohol and caffeine intake, engaging in regular physical activity, and responding promptly to the urge to pass stools are also key to preventing this condition.

Treatment varies based on the severity of the fissure. In many cases, the condition improves on its own. For relief of symptoms, topical creams or medications may be prescribed by your doctor. If conservative treatments are ineffective, surgery may be considered as a more permanent solution.

Anaphylaxis is a rapid, severe allergic reaction that can affect multiple organs simultaneously and is potentially fatal. It can be triggered by factors such as certain foods, insect stings, medications, or latex, although it remains uncommon. Most individuals with allergies never experience an anaphylactic episode.

Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include swelling of the tongue, vomiting, difficulty breathing, confusion, and even shock. These reactions are due to an excessive response of the immune system.

Individuals with allergies, asthma, or a family history of anaphylaxis are at a higher risk of experiencing this condition. For those at increased risk or who have known severe allergies, avoiding known triggers is the best preventive approach.

Prompt medical attention is crucial in managing anaphylaxis, as failure to treat it quickly or correctly can be life-threatening. Those with a history of severe allergic reactions should always carry an epinephrine (adrenaline) injector.

Accurate diagnosis and effective management of allergies are vital to prevent future anaphylactic events. A trained allergist or immunologist can help diagnose the condition and develop a comprehensive prevention strategy.

Anorexia nervosa, commonly known as anorexia, is a serious and potentially life-threatening psychological eating disorder. It is marked by extreme self-imposed starvation, significant weight loss, a distorted view of body weight, and an intense fear of gaining weight. Essentially, it is a condition where individuals become preoccupied with their weight and food intake.

Initially, people with anorexia may start dieting to control their weight. Over time, however, their reduced food intake and restrictive eating habits turn into a psychological fixation, leading to starvation and severe weight loss. While the exact causes of anorexia nervosa are unclear, several factors are thought to contribute to its development. These factors include environmental stress, external pressures, prenatal and perinatal complications, physiological changes, neurochemical imbalances, hormonal fluctuations, and genetic predispositions.

If not addressed, anorexia nervosa can lead to severe health complications such as fatigue, low blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, and, in extreme cases, can be fatal. Therefore, timely medical intervention and psychological support are essential for early detection and effective treatment.

Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental health conditions. A 2017 survey estimated that 44.9 million people in India were affected by anxiety disorders. Females are twice as likely to experience these disorders compared to males.

It is natural to feel anxious or stressed in response to challenging life situations. However, when anxiety starts to significantly impact a person’s daily life, it may indicate the presence of an anxiety disorder.

Individuals with anxiety disorders, phobias, or a history of panic attacks often attempt to avoid situations or triggers that worsen their anxiety. This avoidance can prevent them from leading normal lives, leaving them fearful of daily challenges. If anxiety episodes become frequent, severe, and interfere with a person’s quality of life, it is important to seek medical attention. Treatment options such as medications, therapy, and lifestyle changes can help manage anxiety symptoms.

The appendix is a small, closed, narrow pouch that extends from the large intestine. When it becomes inflamed, the condition is called appendicitis, which is the leading cause of emergency abdominal surgeries worldwide.

Appendicitis typically manifests as intense abdominal pain that begins near the belly button and then shifts to the lower right side of the abdomen. In some cases, the appendix may rupture, which is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.

Appendicitis is thought to be caused by an obstruction at the appendix's opening. Key risk factors include constipation, infections, certain bowel conditions, and a family history of appendicitis.

Treatment usually involves surgically removing the appendix, often using laparoscopic techniques. Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent or treat infections in the surgical wound.

Arthritis is a prevalent condition that affects the joints and bones, particularly in areas such as the knees, elbows, wrists, and ankles. Its symptoms may develop gradually or sometimes emerge suddenly. Common signs include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, reduced range of motion, and redness in the skin around the affected joint.

The causes of arthritis vary depending on the type. The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Risk factors for developing arthritis include a family history, aging, prior joint injuries, obesity, and smoking.

The primary goal of treatment is to alleviate pain, prevent further joint damage, and enhance joint function. Treatment options typically involve medications, surgery, weight management, and physical exercises.

Ascites is a medical condition where excess fluid accumulates in the abdominal cavity. This is most commonly caused by liver cirrhosis, which often results from chronic alcohol consumption. Other causes of ascites include various types of cancer, particularly in advanced or recurrent stages, certain heart conditions, infections, low protein levels, and dialysis treatment.

In severe cases, ascites can be quite painful and may restrict movement. The fluid buildup can also move toward the chest, surrounding the lungs and leading to breathing difficulties.

The primary symptoms of ascites include abdominal swelling, weight gain, bloating, a sensation of heaviness, fullness, nausea, vomiting, shortness of breath, and indigestion. Managing ascites typically involves lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and the use of diuretics to help expel excess fluid. In more serious cases, doctors may need to remove the fluid with a needle.

Asthma is a chronic condition where the airways in the lungs become inflamed and the muscles around the small air passages tighten. This leads to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and a feeling of tightness in the chest. These symptoms are often intermittent and may be more severe at night or during physical activity.

Various factors can trigger asthma symptoms, including viral infections (such as colds), dust, smoke, fumes, weather changes, pollen from trees and grass, animal fur and feathers, dust mites (dermatophagoides), strong soaps, and perfumes. Triggers vary among individuals.

Asthma is primarily diagnosed through lung function tests, though blood tests and allergy testing can also be useful in confirming the diagnosis. Treatment options for asthma are extensive, with beta-2 agonists and corticosteroids being the primary medications used to manage the condition.

Lifestyle adjustments and preventive measures, such as avoiding known triggers, staying away from foods that could provoke an asthma attack, and managing stress, can significantly help in controlling asthma symptoms. In severe cases, asthma can progress to a condition called status asthmaticus, which may require hospitalization.

Atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition characterized by dry, itchy, and inflamed patches. It typically begins in childhood but can persist into adulthood, with symptoms occasionally flaring up.

The condition arises from a combination of genetic predisposition, immune system dysfunction, and environmental influences that weaken the skin’s protective barrier. Triggers such as allergens (pollen, pet dander, and certain foods) and environmental factors (cold or dry weather) can worsen symptoms.

Management focuses on regular moisturization, avoiding irritants, and using prescribed medications to alleviate itching and inflammation. Although there is no permanent cure, maintaining a proper skincare regimen and seeking medical guidance can help control the condition effectively.

ADHD, or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a mental health condition characterized by symptoms such as hyperactivity, impulsivity, and difficulty maintaining attention. These signs typically emerge early in life and are often marked by inattention, trouble focusing, disorganization, difficulty completing tasks, forgetfulness, and frequently misplacing things.

ADHD is most commonly diagnosed in children between the ages of 3 and 12. While it is typically considered a childhood disorder, it can continue into adulthood, with approximately two-thirds of children with ADHD retaining symptoms in their adult years.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing ADHD, including low birth weight, a family history of the condition, exposure to toxins during pregnancy, and certain neonatal illnesses.

ADHD can negatively impact academic performance, work life, social relationships, and overall daily functioning. While there is no cure for ADHD, effective management and symptom improvement can occur as a child grows older.

The main treatment for ADHD includes behavioral therapy, which focuses on promoting positive behaviors and addressing problematic ones. Medications are also prescribed to help manage symptoms.

Autism, now referred to as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), encompasses a wide array of conditions that primarily involve difficulties with social interaction, communication, repetitive behaviors, and nonverbal cues.

This developmental disorder arises from differences in the brain, often linked to genetic factors. While the precise causes remain unclear, several risk factors may contribute to the development of autism. The most commonly identified risk factors include nutritional deficiencies during pregnancy, the parents' age, infections, exposure to toxic substances, and the use of certain medications.

Individuals with autism typically experience challenges with communication and social adaptation. They often struggle to interpret the thoughts or emotions of others, feel anxious in social situations, and find it difficult to establish friendships. Some individuals may also prefer solitude.

The approach to treatment and management depends on the severity of the symptoms. While autism cannot currently be cured, the objective of treatment is to enhance an individual's functional abilities by focusing on social, communication, behavioral, and daily life skills.