What is Eczema? Eczema is a chronic, itchy skin condition. The most common type is known as atopic dermatitis. Eczema causes inflammation of the skin, characterized by redness, swelling, and sometimes crusting or fluid-filled blisters. Genetic factors and environmental triggers may play a role. Triggers include allergens, irritants, weather changes, and stress. Treatment includes moisturizing the skin and controlling inflammation and itching. Topical corticosteroids and…
What are Respiratory Tract Infections? Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) are infections that can affect any part of the respiratory system, such as the nose, throat, bronchi, or lungs. These infections are usually caused by viruses, but in some cases bacterial infections can also play a role. Upper respiratory tract infections include the common cold, sinusitis, and pharyngitis, while lower respiratory tract infections include bronchitis and pneumonia. Symptoms include cough, sore throat,…
What is Meningitis? Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes of the brain and spinal cord and is a serious health problem. It is usually caused by bacteria or viruses, but can also be caused by fungi and parasites. Symptoms include severe headache, stiff neck, fever, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, and sometimes confusion. Bacterial meningitis requires immediate medical attention and can be fatal if not treated quickly. Viral meningitis is more common…
What is Pharyngitis? Pharyngitis is an inflammation of the pharynx, the tissue that lines the back of the throat. It is usually caused by viral infections, but sometimes it can be caused by bacterial infections. Symptoms of pharyngitis include sore throat, difficulty swallowing, redness and swelling, and sometimes fever and cough. Viral pharyngitis usually heals on its own, and treatment is aimed at relieving the symptoms: drinking plenty of fluids, painkillers, and throat lozenges. Bacterial pharyngitis, on the other hand,…
What is Pneumonia? Pneumonia is an infection of the lung tissue and is usually caused by bacteria, viruses or fungi. Symptoms include high fever, chills, cough (sometimes with phlegm), difficulty breathing and chest pain. Risk factors include older age, smoking, a weakened immune system and chronic diseases. Diagnosis is usually made through a physical exam, chest X-ray and blood tests. Treatment depends on the type of infection…
What is Angina? Angina is a health condition that usually manifests itself with a sore throat and difficulty swallowing. The most common cause is bacterial or viral infections. Symptoms include severe pain in the throat, fever, enlarged lymph nodes, and difficulty swallowing. Viral angina usually goes away on its own, while bacterial angina may require antibiotic treatment. As a precaution, personal hygiene is important; frequent hand washing and avoiding close contact with sick people are recommended.…
What is Bronchitis? Bronchitis is a health problem that occurs as a result of inflammation of the airways of the respiratory system, called bronchi. There are two main types: acute bronchitis and chronic bronchitis. Acute bronchitis usually develops due to viral infections such as cold or flu and presents with symptoms such as cough, sputum production, chest pain and mild fever. Chronic bronchitis, on the other hand, occurs due to long-term exposure to irritants such as smoking…
What is Otitis Media? Otitis media is a common type of infection in the ear. It usually affects children, but can occur at any age. The infection occurs when the eardrum surrounding the middle ear becomes inflamed. Symptoms include earache, hearing loss, fever, ear discharge, and discomfort. Middle ear infections are usually triggered by viruses or bacteria. Treatment is based on a doctor's advice and includes antibiotics, painkillers,…
What are Upper Respiratory Tract Infections? Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are common illnesses that affect the nose, throat, and sinuses. They usually include the common cold, pharyngitis, sinusitis, and laryngitis. Viruses are the most common causes, but sometimes bacterial infections can play a role. Symptoms include cough, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, headache, and fatigue. Most URTIs go away on their own, and treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms.…
What is Rubella? Rubella is a viral infection caused by the Rubella virus, which is usually mild. It mostly affects children and young adults. Symptoms include low-grade fever, small red rashes, and swollen lymph nodes. It is contagious and spreads through the air. Rubella in pregnant women carries serious risks for the unborn baby and can lead to congenital rubella syndrome, which can cause hearing loss, heart defects, and other…
