Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. These nerve cells, known as motor neurons, are responsible for controlling voluntary muscle movements such as walking, speaking, swallowing and breathing. As ALS progresses, it leads to a gradual loss of muscle control and strength. ALS is also commonly known …

Dry socket, medically known as alveolar osteitis, is a painful dental condition that can occur after a tooth extraction, most commonly following removal of a wisdom tooth. It develops when the blood clot that normally forms in the extraction site becomes dislodged or dissolves before healing is complete. This exposes the underlying bone and nerves, leading to pain and delayed …

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common cause of dementia. It is a progressive neurological condition that begins with abnormal changes in the brain, including the buildup of proteins called amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. These changes damage brain cells over time, leading to cell death and gradual shrinking of the brain. Globally, Alzheimer’s disease accounts for about 60% to 70% …

Airplane ear is stress on the eardrum that occurs when the air pressure in the middle ear does not match the air pressure outside the ear. This most often happens during airplane travel, especially when the plane is climbing after takeoff or descending for landing. The pressure difference can prevent the eardrum from moving normally, leading to discomfort and other …

Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is a rare neurological disorder in which the body’s immune system attacks the peripheral nerves. This can lead to muscle weakness, numbness, and, in severe cases, paralysis. GBS can develop suddenly and progress rapidly over days to weeks. Although the exact cause is unknown, it often follows a bacterial or viral infection. Most individuals recover fully, but …

Age spots, also called liver spots or solar lentigines, are flat, brown, gray or black spots that appear on the skin. They usually develop on areas exposed to the sun, such as the face, hands, shoulders, arms and upper back. Age spots are caused by excess production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color. They are most common …

Dry macular degeneration, also known as dry age-related macular degeneration, is a common eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It develops gradually and is characterized by thinning of the macula and the accumulation of small yellow deposits called drusen. Dry macular degeneration is the more common form of macular …

Wet macular degeneration, also known as neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a chronic eye condition that affects the macula, the central part of the retina responsible for sharp, detailed vision. It occurs when abnormal blood vessels grow under the retina and leak fluid or blood, leading to rapid damage to central vision. Although less common than dry macular degeneration, …

Myelofibrosis is a rare, chronic bone marrow disorder in which scar tissue gradually replaces healthy bone marrow. This scarring disrupts the body’s ability to produce normal blood cells, leading to anemia, weakness, and enlargement of organs such as the spleen and liver. Myelofibrosis is classified as a type of myeloproliferative neoplasm and may occur on its own or develop from …

Agoraphobia (ag-uh-ruh-FOE-be-uh) is a type of anxiety disorder marked by intense fear and avoidance of places or situations that may cause panic, helplessness or embarrassment. The fear is often linked to situations where escape may feel difficult or help may not be easily available if anxiety becomes overwhelming. Commonly feared situations include using public transportation, being in crowds, standing in …