Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, resulting in an inadequate amount of water to carry out normal bodily functions. Water is essential for regulating body temperature, maintaining blood pressure, and supporting organ function. Dehydration can range from mild to severe and may affect people of all ages, especially infants, older adults, and those exposed …

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a medical condition in which a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most commonly in the legs. The clot can partially or completely block blood flow, leading to pain and swelling. DVT is a serious condition because a clot can break loose and travel to the lungs, causing a life-threatening pulmonary embolism. Early recognition …

Dry eyes, also known as dry eye disease, is a common condition that occurs when the eyes do not produce enough tears or when tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for maintaining eye health, comfort, and clear vision. When the tear film is disrupted, the eyes may become irritated, inflamed, and uncomfortable. Dry eyes can be temporary or chronic …

De Quervain tenosynovitis is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the thumb side of the wrist. It occurs when the tendons that control thumb movement become inflamed or irritated as they pass through a narrow tunnel near the wrist. This inflammation can restrict tendon movement and cause pain, especially during gripping, lifting, or twisting motions. The condition is …

Ductal carcinoma in situ is a noninvasive breast condition in which abnormal cells are found in the lining of the milk ducts. The term “in situ” means the cells have not spread beyond the ducts into surrounding breast tissue. DCIS is considered the earliest form of breast cancer and is highly treatable when detected early. Symptoms Many people with ductal …

Cytomegalovirus infection is a common viral infection caused by a member of the herpesvirus family. Many people are infected at some point in their lives and may never develop symptoms. Once infected, the virus remains in the body in a dormant state and can reactivate later. Cytomegalovirus infection is usually mild in healthy individuals but can cause serious illness in …

Epidermoid cysts are common, noncancerous growths that develop beneath the skin. They form when skin cells move deeper into the skin instead of shedding normally, leading to a slow-growing sac filled with keratin. These cysts can appear anywhere on the body but are most often found on the face, neck, scalp, back, and trunk. Epidermoid cysts are usually harmless but …

Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder that affects the lungs, digestive system, and other organs. It causes the body to produce thick, sticky mucus that can clog airways and ducts, leading to chronic respiratory infections and digestive problems. Cystic fibrosis is a lifelong condition that usually begins in early childhood. Advances in treatment have significantly improved life expectancy and quality …

A spermatocele is a benign, fluid-filled cyst that develops in the epididymis, the small coiled tube located behind the testicle that stores and transports sperm. It is usually painless and noncancerous and is commonly discovered during a self-exam or routine physical examination. Spermatoceles are generally harmless and often do not require treatment unless they cause discomfort or grow large. Symptoms …

A pilonidal cyst is a round sac of tissue that’s filled with air or fluid. This common type of cyst is located in the crease of the buttocks and is usually caused by a skin infection. Pilonidal cysts are a common condition, with more than 70,000 cases reported in the U.S. every year. But many people feel too embarrassed to …