Athlete’s foot, also called tinea pedis, is a common fungal skin infection that usually begins between the toes. It develops most often when feet become warm, moist and sweaty, especially after being enclosed in tight-fitting shoes for long periods. The infection is caused by fungi known as dermatophytes, which thrive in warm and damp environments. Athlete’s foot is contagious and …
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. It is most common in young children, but it can affect people of any age. The condition often follows a long-term pattern, with periods when symptoms worsen, called flares, and times when the skin improves. Although atopic dermatitis can be uncomfortable and …
Atrial flutter is a type of abnormal heart rhythm known as an arrhythmia. It affects the heart’s upper chambers, called the atria, causing them to beat faster than normal. Atrial flutter is closely related to atrial fibrillation, but the electrical activity in atrial flutter is more regular and organized. Some people may experience both conditions at different times. This condition …
Atrioventricular septal defect is a congenital heart defect, meaning it is present at birth. It involves a combination of heart problems that affect the center of the heart. Children born with this condition have a hole in the wall that separates the heart’s chambers, along with abnormalities of the valves that regulate blood flow through the heart. Because of this …
Atrioventricular nodal reentry tachycardia, also called AVNRT, is a type of irregular heartbeat known as an arrhythmia. It is the most common form of supraventricular tachycardia, which means the abnormal rhythm starts in the upper part of the heart. In AVNRT, the heart suddenly begins to beat very fast, often at a rate higher than 100 beats per minute, and …
Atrioventricular septal defect is a congenital heart defect, meaning it is present at birth. It involves a combination of structural problems affecting the center of the heart. Children born with this condition have a hole in the wall that separates the heart chambers, along with abnormalities of the heart valves that regulate blood flow. Because of this defect, extra blood …
Vaginal atrophy, also known as atrophic vaginitis or genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), is a condition caused by thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls due to a decrease in estrogen levels. It most commonly affects postmenopausal individuals but can also occur during breastfeeding or after medical treatments that reduce estrogen. Lower estrogen levels reduce blood flow and elasticity …
Reactive attachment disorder is a childhood mental health condition that affects a child’s ability to form healthy emotional bonds with caregivers. It develops when a child’s basic emotional and physical needs for comfort, affection, and consistent caregiving are not adequately met during early development. The disorder is most often seen in children who have experienced severe neglect, abuse, or frequent …
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, commonly known as ADHD, is a long-term neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of children worldwide and often continues into adulthood. The disorder is marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention, hyperactivity and impulsive behavior that interferes with daily functioning and development. Children with ADHD may struggle with focus, self-control and staying organized. These challenges can affect academic performance, …
Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, commonly known as adult ADHD, is a mental health condition characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention, impulsivity and restlessness. Although often associated with childhood, ADHD begins early in life and may continue into adulthood. In many individuals, symptoms are not recognized or formally diagnosed until adult years. Adult ADHD can affect many areas of daily life, …