Muscle strains occur when muscle fibers are overstretched or torn due to excessive force or sudden movement. They are commonly referred to as pulled muscles and can affect any muscle in the body, especially those involved in physical activity such as the back, hamstrings, shoulders, and calves. Muscle strains range from mild to severe. Mild strains may cause discomfort with …

Mumps is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the salivary glands, especially the parotid glands located near the ears. The infection leads to painful swelling of these glands and can cause fever and general discomfort. Mumps is caused by a virus and spreads easily through close contact. The condition was once common in childhood but has become less frequent …

Multiple system atrophy is a rare, progressive neurological disorder that affects movement, balance, and the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary body functions such as blood pressure, breathing, and digestion. It is characterized by the gradual degeneration of nerve cells in specific areas of the brain. The condition typically begins in adulthood and worsens over time. Multiple system atrophy can …

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. In this condition, the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers, known as myelin. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body. Multiple sclerosis can follow different patterns, with symptoms that may come …

Moyamoya disease is a rare, progressive cerebrovascular disorder in which certain arteries at the base of the brain become narrowed or blocked. To compensate for reduced blood flow, the brain develops a network of tiny blood vessels that appear hazy on imaging, resembling a puff of smoke. This abnormal circulation is fragile and prone to bleeding or blockage. The condition …

Movement disorders are a group of neurological conditions that affect the speed, fluency, quality, or ease of voluntary and involuntary movements. These disorders may cause excessive movements, reduced movements, or abnormal movements that interfere with daily activities and quality of life. Movement disorders can affect people of all ages and may develop gradually or appear suddenly, depending on the underlying …

Mosquito bites are common skin reactions that occur when a mosquito pierces the skin to feed on blood. During the bite, the mosquito injects saliva that triggers an immune response, leading to itching, redness, and swelling. Most mosquito bites are harmless and heal on their own within a few days. In some cases, mosquito bites can transmit infections or cause …

Morton’s neuroma is a painful foot condition caused by thickening of the tissue surrounding one of the nerves leading to the toes. It most commonly affects the nerve between the third and fourth toes. The condition is not a true tumor but rather a nerve irritation that develops over time. Morton’s neuroma often causes discomfort while walking or standing and …

Morning sickness is a common pregnancy-related condition characterized by nausea and, in some cases, vomiting. It most often occurs during the first trimester but can happen at any time of the day, not just in the morning. The severity varies widely, ranging from mild nausea to frequent vomiting that interferes with daily activities. Morning sickness is generally considered a normal …

Mood disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by persistent disturbances in a person’s emotional state. These disturbances affect how an individual feels, thinks, and functions in daily life. Mood disorders may involve periods of unusually low mood, elevated mood, or fluctuations between both. These conditions can significantly impact relationships, work performance, physical health, and overall quality of …