Osteoporosis (OP) is a loss of bone density, leading to increased bone brittleness and fragility. The main concern with osteoporosis is the increased risk of fractures since the bones are porous and weak. Osteoporosis may not cause symptoms and patients may be unaware until they experience a fracture, sometimes from a very minor injury. It … Read more
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease and the most common type of arthritis. It is associated with the gradual loss of cartilage between joints and the formation of osteophytes or outgrowths at the margins of the joints. This causes pain and can lead to joint damage. The hands, knees, hips, and spine are most … Read more
Breastfeeding or nursing is the practice of feeding your baby with breast milk directly from the breast. Experts recommend that new mothers exclusively breastfeed their child within the first 6 months after birth and continue through the infant’s first year of life if possible. The frequency of breastfeeding will depend on the baby’s size and … Read more
MRSA, or Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus, is a bacterium that causes infection to different parts of the body and is challenging to treat as it is resistant to the most commonly-prescribed antibiotics. MRSA can be spread through skin-to-skin contact in the community but can also cause serious bloodstream or respiratory infections in healthcare settings. Staphylococcus aureus … Read more
Thrombocytopenia is characterized by a low platelet count, measuring below 150,000/mm³ (150 – 400 x10⁹/L). A normal platelet count is 150,000 – 400,000/mm³ for adults. Platelets are blood cells that aid in coagulation efforts for normal blood clotting. Low platelet counts increase the risk of bleeding. Thrombocytopenia occurs when the bone marrow doesn’t make enough … Read more
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, progressive, degenerative disease of the central nervous system. It is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation that destroys the myelin and axons, affecting the brain and spinal cord. Types of Multiple Sclerosis Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS): The most common form of MS is characterized by flares or relapses and periods … Read more
Neutropenia is a condition characterized by decreased levels of neutrophils. Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell, specifically a granulocyte, and are crucial to the body’s ability to fight infection. The absolute neutrophil count (ANC) is calculated by multiplying the white blood cell count by the sum of the percentages of neutrophils (segmented neutrophils … Read more
Bronchitis is a respiratory condition characterized by inflammation of the lower respiratory tract, specifically the bronchioles. This condition can either be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is a common condition that usually develops from a cold or other respiratory infection and resolves within 7 to 10 days without lasting effects. Acute bronchitis may manifest with … Read more
Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) occurs when the body releases excessive amounts of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), resulting in the retention of excess water in the body, causing hyponatremia. ADH is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored and released by the pituitary gland. It plays an essential role in various processes in the … Read more
Rhabdomyolysis is characterized by the breakdown of muscle that releases excessive myoglobin, creatine kinase, electrolytes, and other substances into the bloodstream. Toxic levels of these substances can lead to acute kidney injury and even kidney failure in severe cases. Other serious complications include compartment syndrome and disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Overview Rhabdomyolysis can result from … Read more