What is the ileum? In conditions where the ileum is removed surgically, the duodenum is connected to the colon. This is called anastomosis. The entire small intestine is around 20 feet long and is divided into three parts. The first part is called the duodenum. The stomach opens into the duodenum. The middle part is called …
Read More »
What is intestinal anastomosis? An intestinal anastomosis is the opening between two parts of the gastrointestinal tract. Surgeons must sometimes remove diseased parts and reconnect the healthy parts with an opening for food to pass through. An anastomosis is a medical term used to describe connection or opening between two organs or tissues. When a part of the small or …
Read More »
What is Lyme disease? Stage 1 early localized disease with a red rash with "bullseye" appearance occurring at or near the site of the tick bite. Lyme disease is a multisystem illness caused by infection with the microorganism, Borrelia burgdorferi, and the body’s immune response to its infection. The illness is transmitted from tick bites when the tick regurgitates the …
Read More »
What are antiepileptic drugs? Antiepileptic drugs aim to rebalance the chemo-electric activity in the brain, the dysfunction of which causes seizures. Antiepileptic drugs (AED) are medications given to control epileptic seizures and convulsions. Antiepileptic drugs do not cure epilepsy, but may reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of seizures. Most people must continue taking antiepileptic drugs for their entire lives. …
Read More »
What is usually the first sign of HIV? The signs and symptoms of HIV may first appear within two to four weeks of infection. The initial presentation of an HIV infection is a flu-like illness which includes: Fever Body ache Sore throat Headache Rash Swollen lymph nodes: Lymph nodes are a part of the body’s immune system that helps get …
Read More »
What is asthma? There is no cure for asthma, however, asthma symptoms can be managed by lifestyle modifications and treatment. Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways (bronchi). Bronchi generally allow for the passage of air in and out of the lungs. In asthma, these airways develop hypersensitivity, inflammation, and narrowing. This causes difficulty in breathing. In the …
Read More »
What exactly is a tumor? Tumors can vary in size, from a tiny swelling to a large lump. Tumors can appear almost anywhere in the body. A tumor is an abnormal growth of cells, which serves no purpose in the body. A tumor develops when cells divide too quickly and without control. Tumors can vary in size, from a tiny …
Read More »
What is a stye? A stye usually resolves in about seven days. However, some cases of stye require medical help. A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is mainly caused due to a bacterial infection. It is a red, painful bump that forms either inside or outside the eyelid. There are two kinds of styes: External stye: A stye looks …
Read More »
Who is an endocrinologist? The most common diseases treated by an endocrinologist include diabetes mellitus type 1 and type 2, Thyroid disorders, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and goiter. An endocrinologist is a specialist doctor who treats imbalances of hormones or the endocrine system of the body. An endocrinologist is trained for almost two to three years in endocrinology after completing four years …
Read More »
What is ankylosing spondylitis? The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not known. A combination of age, sex, and genetic and environmental factors may increase the risk of ankylosing spondylitis. Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), also called Bechterew disease, is a chronic inflammatory disease. Ankylosing spondylitis affects the joints of the body, especially the small joints of the spine and the pelvic …
Read More »
