Swimmer’s itch (cercarial dermatitis) is a temporary, non-contagious itchy rash that appears on your skin and is caused by a certain parasite found in fresh water (lake or pond water) or salt water (ocean water). If you swim in water that’s infested with the parasite, it can burrow (dig) into your skin. Your body has an allergic reaction to it, causing a …

Central sleep apnea is a sleep-related breathing disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to the brain failing to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, this condition is not caused by airway blockage but by a problem in the central nervous system’s regulation of respiration. It can lead to …

Central nervous system (CNS) vascular malformations are abnormal clusters of blood vessels in the brain or spinal cord. These malformations can disrupt normal blood flow and may lead to neurological symptoms or complications such as bleeding. CNS vascular malformations include several types, such as arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), cavernous malformations, capillary telangiectasias, and venous malformations. Some are present at birth, while …

Cellulitis is a common bacterial skin infection that affects the deeper layers of the skin, including the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. It usually occurs when bacteria, most often Streptococcus or Staphylococcus, enter the skin through a cut, wound, insect bite, or surgical incision. Cellulitis can develop rapidly and may spread if untreated, making prompt medical attention essential. Symptoms Cellulitis symptoms …

Cellulite is a common cosmetic condition in which the skin appears dimpled or lumpy, typically affecting the thighs, hips, buttocks, and abdomen. It occurs when fat deposits push through the connective tissue beneath the skin, creating an uneven surface. Cellulite is more common in women than men due to differences in fat distribution, connective tissue, and hormonal factors. While it …

Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome is a rare condition in which the median arcuate ligament, a fibrous band of the diaphragm, compresses the celiac artery and nearby nerves. This compression can reduce blood flow to the upper abdominal organs and irritate surrounding nerves, leading to chronic abdominal symptoms. MALS most commonly affects young to middle-aged adults and is more frequently diagnosed …

Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a birth defect in which an opening in the diaphragm allows abdominal organs, such as the stomach, intestines, or liver, to move into the chest cavity during fetal development. This displacement interferes with normal lung growth, often leading to underdeveloped lungs and breathing difficulties after birth. CDH is usually present at birth and can range …

Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are permanent damage to the teeth that develop into tiny openings or holes. They occur when tooth enamel is eroded by acids produced by bacteria in the mouth. Cavities are one of the most common dental problems and can affect people of all ages. If left untreated, cavities can progress to …

Cavernous malformations, also known as cavernous angiomas or cavernomas, are abnormal clusters of small blood vessels with thin walls that form in the brain, spinal cord, or other parts of the body. These vessels are enlarged and irregular, creating blood-filled spaces that can leak or bleed slowly over time. Cavernous malformations may be present at birth or develop later in …

Cataracts are a common eye condition in which the normally clear lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurred or reduced vision. They typically develop slowly and can affect one or both eyes. Cataracts are most often related to aging, but they can also occur due to injury, medical conditions, or certain medications. If left untreated, cataracts can significantly …