A fibroadenoma of the breast is a common benign (non-cancerous) breast lump. It is most often found in adolescents and young women, although fibroadenomas can occur at different ages. A fibroadenoma is usually round or oval, well-defined and firm or rubbery. It may feel smooth and can often move under the skin when touched. Some fibroadenomas cause no pain, while…
Egg allergy is an immune-system reaction to proteins found in eggs. The body mistakenly identifies certain egg proteins as harmful and releases chemicals such as histamine, which can cause allergic symptoms. Egg allergy is more common in children, and some children may outgrow it as they get older. However, it can persist into adulthood in some people. Symptoms may appear…
Dysuria is the medical term for painful, burning, or uncomfortable urination. The discomfort may occur when urine starts to pass, during urination, or immediately afterward. Dysuria is a symptom rather than a disease itself, so identifying the underlying cause is important. A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the common causes of painful urination, particularly in women. However, dysuria…
Dyspareunia is the medical term for recurrent or persistent pain during sexual intercourse. The pain may occur before, during, or after sexual activity and can affect the genital area, pelvis, lower abdomen, or surrounding areas. Dyspareunia can affect both women and men, although it is more commonly reported by women. The discomfort may be related to vaginal dryness, infection, inflammation,…
Dyspnea is the medical term for shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. It may feel like you cannot get enough air, cannot take a deep breath, or are experiencing chest tightness or a suffocating sensation. Breathlessness can occur temporarily after strenuous exercise, intense physical activity, or exposure to extreme conditions. However, shortness of breath that occurs at rest, with mild…
Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus. It commonly affects the ovaries, fallopian tubes and tissues around the pelvis, although it can occur in other locations as well. This tissue can respond to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. It may swell and bleed, which can contribute…
Esophageal varices are enlarged, swollen veins in the lower part of the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. They usually develop when increased pressure in the portal vein system, known as portal hypertension, causes blood to be redirected through smaller veins around the esophagus. These veins have thin walls and are not designed to…
Ear discharge, medically known as otorrhea, refers to fluid or material coming out of the ear canal. The discharge may be earwax, clear fluid, pus or blood, depending on the underlying cause. Earwax is normal and helps protect the ear canal from dust, bacteria and other foreign particles. However, new or persistent fluid discharge from the ear should not automatically…
Dry eye, also called dry eye disease or dry eye syndrome, is a common eye condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly or do not have the right composition. Tears are important for keeping the surface of the eye smooth, comfortable and protected. When the tear film becomes unstable, the…
E. coli (Escherichia coli) is a group of bacteria commonly found in the intestines of humans and other animals. Most E. coli strains are harmless and are part of the normal intestinal microbiome. However, certain strains can cause infections. E. coli can cause intestinal infections and diarrhea, while other strains are a common cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Some…
