Learning Diseases And Treatment

    DIABETES MELLITUS   Definition: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that lasts over a long time and is associated with abnormally high blood sugar levels. It arises as a result of two factors: lack of insulin in the body due to insufficient secretion by the pancreas or failure of target cells to respond properly to the produced insulin hormone.   Types Of Diabetes Mellitus:   Ø   Type 1 Diabetes:  This condition occurs as a result of the body’s immune system erroneously destroying the beta cells in the pancreas responsible for the production of insulin, hence the individual produces little or no insulin.   Ø   Type 2 Diabetes:  This condition is caused by a combination of relative deficiency of insulin and its resistance to action by the body. Epidemiologically, it is predominant and is very often associated with ways of living.   Ø   Gestational Diabetes:  Develops during one of the phases of pregnancy and usuall...

   HYPERTENSION (HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE) High blood pressure often referred to as hypertension is a long-term disorder of heart and blood vessels, where the pressure of the blood flow against artery walls is persistently high. This condition thus adds more pressure on the heart, blood vessels and other body organs which may result in various health risks.  Definition:  Hypertension is a situation whereby the pressures of blood against the walls of arteries are always raised. Blood pressure is measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and is recorded as two numbers: systemic hypertension, which is the pressure of blood against the arterial walls during its contraction (systolic) in relation to pressure during the heart’s diastole (relaxation). The normal blood pressure is frequently put at 120/80 which is known as normotension. Hypertension is normally defined as having your blood pressure level of 130/80 mmHg and above.    Types of Hypertension:  Primary ...

  Stroke:  A stroke is also referred to as a cerebrovascular accident (CVA) which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, thus causing the death of brain cells due to lack of oxygen and nutrients. Strokes are also very dangerous as they may lead to serious disability or even fatal in some cases hence are associated with rush healthcare.    Types of Stroke: 1.       Ischemic Stroke: This type happens when a blood clot enters the brain or when an artery is narrowed or blocked to allow little blood to reach the organ. 2.       Hemorrhagic Stroke : It is this type that occurs when a blood vessel that is weak gives way and starts to bleed in the surrounding brain matter. 3.       Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA): It is also known as a “transient ischemic attack,” or TIA, and it results from a clot that is temporary. The symptoms are self-limiting and most commonly last for less than...

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Definition: Coronary Artery Disease (also known as CAD) is a very common type of heart disease characterized by the narrowing or blocking of the coronary arteries, the vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to your heart muscle. This reduced blood flow can cause chest pain (angina), heart attack (myocardial infarction) and potentially fatal arrhythmias. Types of CAD: Atherosclerosis: The most frequent, with plaque (made of cholesterol, fat, calcium and other substances) narrowing the arteries. Spasm of Coronary arteries→blood flow decreases suddenly → grief==>lessen oxygenation. Coronary artery embolism: A blockage, resulting from a clot or other material present in the blood.   Causative Factors: Risk Factors: Hypertension, Hyperlipidemia, Cigarette smoking, Diabetes Mellitus, Obesity and sedentary lifestyle,Familial history of CAD and Age. Inflammation, stress, poor diet and high alcohol use are another factors Prevention Methods: Well-balanced lif...

Definition: Ringworm, also known as Tinea, is a common fungal infection of the skin, hair, or nails caused by various species of dermatophyte fungi. It manifests as circular or ring-shaped rashes with characteristic symptoms. Causative Agent: Ringworm is caused by dermatophyte fungi, including species such as Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton. These fungi thrive in warm, moist environments and can infect the skin, hair, or nails. Transmission Mode: Ringworm is typically transmitted through direct contact with infected humans or animals. It can also spread indirectly through contaminated objects, such as clothing, towels, or surfaces.   Types: 1. Tinea Corporis:- Infection of the skin on the body, excluding the scalp, feet, and groin. It presents as red, scaly, and itchy circular patches with raised borders. 2. Tinea Capitis:- Infection of the scalp and hair. It commonly affects children and may result in scaling, hair loss, and inflamed, tender areas o...

Definition: Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection caused by the inhalation of the spores of the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. It primarily affects the lungs but can also spread to other organs, leading to a range of symptoms and clinical manifestations.   Causative Agent: Histoplasmosis is caused by the dimorphic fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which exists in a filamentous form in the environment and as a yeast form within the body.   Transmission Mode: Histoplasma capsulatum is primarily found in soil and bird or bat droppings, particularly in areas with large bird or bat populations. Inhalation of fungal spores present in contaminated dust or soil is the primary mode of transmission.   Types: 1. Acute Pulmonary Histoplasmosis:- This is the most common form and typically presents as a self-limiting respiratory illness with flu-like symptoms. 2. Chronic Pulmonary Histoplasmosis:- This type occurs in individuals with underlying lung disease or weakened immu...

Definition: Candidiasis, commonly known as a yeast infection, is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida species, most commonly Candida albicans. It can affect various parts of the body, including the skin, mucous membranes, and internal organs. Causative Agent: Candidiasis is caused by the Candida species, predominantly Candida albicans. Other species such as Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, and Candida parapsilosis can also cause infections. Transmission Mode: Candidiasis is often an endogenous infection, meaning it arises from the body's own colonization of Candida species. However, it can also be acquired through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated surfaces. Types: 1. Oropharyngeal Candidiasis (Thrush):- Infection of the mouth and throat commonly seen in individuals with weakened immune systems, infants, and those using inhaled corticosteroids or antibiotics. 2. Genital Candidiasis:- Infection of the genital area in both ma...