Allergies are such a widespread condition that it impacts millions of individuals globally. Allergies are caused when the immune system reacts abruptly to something that is not typically harmful, like pollen, pet dander, or specific foods. When the body encounters such an allergen, the body releases histamines, which prompt the symptoms of sneezing, itchiness, runny…
Acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD) is a condition under which the stomach acid flows up into the esophagus, causing irritation and discomfort. This can cause symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). A ring of muscle at the entrance to the stomach, known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), should…
High blood pressure, which is also referred to as hypertension, is the most common condition where the pressure of the blood in the arteries is too high all the time. It has the potential to cause severe illnesses such as heart diseases, stroke, and kidney diseases. It is mostly asymptomatic, so periodic visits to the…
Strep throat is an infection caused by the Streptococcus pyogenes bacterium, commonly referred to as group A streptococcus. This bacterium is highly contagious and can be passed through coughing or sneezing, which expel respiratory droplets that contain the bacterium into the air. Strep throat occurs most frequently among children aged between the ages of 5…
Sore throats are frequently caused by infections, which can be caused by viruses or bacteria, or can be caused by irritants or allergies in the environment. An inflamed throat can be uncomfortable, causing pain, making it hard to swallow or speak. This can be annoying while eating or drinking, as the process of swallowing tends…
Diarrhea is an ordinary condition characterized by loose, frequent, and watery stools. It may be caused by anything from infections, to food intolerances, to certain drugs. Diarrhea may be acute, only lasting a few days, or be prolonged, lasting weeks at a time. Diarrhea may be no more than an annoyance, or it can be…
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is the condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, resulting in the burning sensation in the chest termed heartburn. This happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is the ring of muscle at the lower end of the esophagus, does not close efficiently, thus causing…
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is the condition where the stomach acid flows up into the esophagus, producing the burning sensation felt in the chest or the throat. It happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle at the stomach entrance, does not close tightly, thus enabling the stomach acid…
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid flows into the esophagus, producing discomfort and irritation. It may cause symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, chest ache, and trouble swallowing. A ring of muscle, the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), is at the entrance to the stomach that is supposed to close the…
Glucose, which is commonly termed as blood sugar, is the primary source of fuel that the cells of the body utilize to generate energy. It is derived from the foods that we consume and transported to the cells via the bloodstream. It is very important that the body has the proper mechanism to maintain the…
