Low blood pressure is also called hypotension. Low blood pressure occurs when blood pressure drops below the normal range. Low B.P., 90/60 mmHg or below. Normal blood pressure is considered to be below 120/80mmHg. Hypotension can be temporary or it can be a chronic condition. Blood pressure is the force of the blood as it presses against the blood vessel…
The cornea is an outer protective layer that protects the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber of the eye. Progressive thinning of the cornea with irregular shape causing blurred vision is called keratoconus. In keratoconus, the cornea bulges out and becomes cone-shaped called the conical cornea. It usually develops between the ages of 8 and 30. Both men and women get…
Just below the chest bone, the sternum experiences pain with severe burning with acidity called heartburn. It is worse with the eating of oily food, in the evening, or on lying down. It comes occasionally while eating continuously fatty food. People manage by themselves while changing their habits or lifestyle. Causes of heartburn GERD gastroesophageal reflux disorder: In which people experience…
Gastroenteritis is inflammation or infection of the stomach and intestines that commonly causes sudden diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and abdominal cramps. It is often called the “stomach flu,” although it is not the same as influenza. Gastroenteritis can be caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites or, less commonly, other infectious organisms. Contaminated food or water and close contact with an infected person…
A fracture is a break or crack in a bone. Fractures can occur in any bone of the body and may range from a small crack to a complete break into multiple pieces. Falls and accidents are among the common causes of fractures. However, a fracture can also occur because of repeated stress on a bone or because certain conditions…
Elbow pain is discomfort around the elbow joint that can affect movement, grip strength and everyday activities such as lifting, carrying or working with the arm. It may result from overuse, muscle or tendon strain, injury, inflammation, arthritis or nerve irritation. People whose work or sports involve repeated movements of the wrist, forearm and elbow may be more likely to…
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that causes visible flakes of skin, often accompanied by itching. The flakes may be white, greyish, or sometimes yellowish and greasy. Dandruff is not usually a serious medical condition, and it is not contagious. It also does not mean that a person has poor hygiene. However, persistent or severe scalp flaking may sometimes be…
Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in memory, thinking, reasoning, communication, or other cognitive abilities that interferes with everyday life. It is not a single disease. Different diseases and conditions can cause dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the most common cause. Dementia is not a normal part of ageing. Although occasional forgetfulness can happen with ageing,…
Dengue fever, also known as breakbone fever, is a viral infection caused by the dengue virus (DENV). It is transmitted through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes and is commonly seen in tropical and subtropical regions. The most common symptoms include high fever, headache, body and joint pain, weakness and skin eruptions. Bleeding can also occur in some cases. Dengue…
Depression is a mental health condition in which a person experiences a persistent feeling of sadness, low mood or loss of interest in activities. It can affect emotional well-being, sleep, appetite, concentration, relationships and everyday activities. Depression can affect people of different ages and backgrounds. It may develop because of a combination of biological, psychological, genetic and environmental factors. Depression…
