Pneumonia Pneumonia is an infection caused by viruses, bacteria, or fungi. It results in inflammation in the air sacs (alveoli) of one or both lungs, causing them to fill with fluid or pus, which makes breathing difficult. Both viral and bacterial pneumonia are contagious and can spread from person to person through inhalation of airborne…
Parkinson’s Disease What is Parkinson’s disease? Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder characterised initially by movement-related issues. These movements rely on dopamine, a neurotransmitter produced in the substantia nigra of the brain. In Parkinson’s, the degeneration of substantia nigra cells leads to a reduction in dopamine levels, triggering symptoms once levels drop by 60…
Obesity Obesity is a chronic health condition characterised by excess body fat (adipose tissue) accumulation that can adversely affect health over time. Body mass index (BMI), calculated based on a person’s weight and height, is a common tool for assessing obesity. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity in adults is…
Nausea What is nausea? Nausea is characterized by stomach discomfort and the feeling of needing to vomit. It often precedes vomiting, where the contents of the stomach are expelled. This condition has numerous causes and can frequently be avoided with preventive measures. What causes nausea? Nausea can arise from a variety of sources. Some individuals…
Multiple Sclerosis Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition that affects the central nervous system (CNS). In MS, the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective layer surrounding nerve fibres. MS is not just a condition; it’s a life-altering reality. It causes inflammation and temporary lesions, resulting in lasting scars due to tissue damage. These…
Mouth Ulcers Mouth ulcers are painful, typically small lesions or sores that develop in your mouth or at the base of your gums. They can make eating, drinking, and talking uncomfortable. There are different types of mouth ulcers, including canker sores and those caused by hand, foot, and mouth disease. Mouth ulcers are rarely contagious…
Migraine Migraine is a neurological condition known for causing painful headache attacks accompanied by a range of symptoms beyond intense headaches. These additional symptoms can include: Migraine often has a genetic component and can affect individuals of all ages, although it is more commonly diagnosed in women compared to men. Diagnosis is typically based on…
Gum Disease What is gum disease? Gingivitis, an inflammation of the gums, is typically caused by a bacterial infection. If not treated, it can progress to a more severe condition known as periodontitis. Both gingivitis and periodontitis are significant contributors to tooth loss in adults. What are the types of gum infections? Gingivitis is typically…
Diarrhoea What is Diarrhoea? Diarrhoea, or “running stomach,” involves frequent bowel movements with loose, watery stools. It can occur for various reasons, including infections, diseases, and food intolerances. Acute diarrhoea typically lasts 1 to 2 days, often caused by viral or bacterial infections contracted through contaminated food or beverages. Chronic diarrhoea, on the other hand,…
COVID-19 What is the 2019 coronavirus? In late 2019, a new virus began making headlines worldwide, with its rapid transmission and alarming symptoms. This virus, known as COVID-19, has not only affected distant countries like the United States and the Philippines but has also made its presence felt right here in our local community, underscoring…