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…

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…

Eye floaters are small spots, specks, threads or cobweb-like shapes that appear to move across your field of vision. They may look black, grey or translucent and are often easier to notice when looking at a bright, plain background such as a clear sky or white wall. Most eye floaters are related to normal, age-associated changes in the vitreous, the…

Eczema is a common skin condition that causes dry, itchy, inflamed and irritated skin. The most common type is atopic dermatitis, which often begins during childhood but can also continue into adulthood or develop later in life. Eczema is not contagious and cannot spread from one person to another through touch. The condition can come and go, with periods when…

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…