health
What is Secondary Syphilis?
Venereal syphilis, commonly known as simply “syphilis”, is an infection caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum (subspecies pallidum). Syphilis is spread by direct contact with an infected individual, such as:[1][2][3] Sexual contact From mother to fetus in utero Via blood…
What is Premenstrual Syndrome?
The term premenstrual syndrome (PMS) describes a variety of physical and emotional changes that may occur in a woman in the days before her menstrual period begins. This condition is very common, and affects the majority of menstruating women in…
What is COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019), formerly known as 2019-nCoV?
This is based on the evolving but still limited knowledge of the new coronavirus. It will be updated as new scientifically credible information becomes available. COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) COVID-19 is the disease resulting from infection by a new respiratory…
What is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus?
Systemic Lupus erythematous (SLE) is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks normal cells (an autoimmune condition). The reason why this happens is not well understood, but certain medications, smoking and having a family member with SLE all…
What is the Human Herpesvirus (HHV)?
A herpesvirus family is a group of viruses that can infect both animals and humans. Over 130 species of herpes virus are known, but only eight of these are known to infect humans. These, collectively, are known as human herpesvirus,…
What is Breast Cancer?
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. It is estimated that about one in eight women in the U.S. will develop breast cancer.[1] Breast cancer is most common in women over 50 years of age, though it can…
What is Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts, sometimes called verrucas, are a type of wart found on the sole of the foot or the toes, most commonly in weight-bearing locations such as the heel. They are a very common type of wart, especially in children,…
What is Appendix pain?
Appendix pain Appendix pain is typically described as pain or discomfort in the abdominal area (the belly), in the lower right side, where the appendix is located. Medically speaking, there is no such thing as “appendix pain”, even though the…
What is Vitamin B12 Deficiency?
Vitamin B12 deficiency Vitamin B12 deficiency occurs when there are inadequate levels of vitamin B12 in the body. This important vitamin is necessary for the production of red blood cells and the healthy functioning of the nervous system. A lack…
What is Preparing for a Colonoscopy?
colonoscopy A colonoscopy involves inserting a thin, flexible tube called a colonoscope into the body through the anus to examine the colon (large intestine) and rectum. The primary purpose of a colonoscopy is to investigate symptoms that may be coming…
What Is a Physiotherapist?
A physiotherapist, or physical therapist, works with patients to help them manage pain, balance, mobility, and motor function. If you’ve ever had an illness or injury that impacted your ability to move or carry out daily tasks, your doctor may have referred…
What you should know about COVID-19
COVID-19 is a disease caused by a coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Scientists first discovered it in December 2019. 1 In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 outbreak a global pandemic. 2 COVID-19 usually causes respiratory symptoms, like a cold or flu,…