Hidradenitis suppurativa, commonly referred to as acne inversa, is a chronic skin condition which is difficult and complicated to deal with. Triggered during puberty, teens, or 20s by unhealthy lifestyle habits, this condition is caused by a blockage in the apocrine glands. It is characterized by the appearance of painful bumps under the skin, in the hair roots, or near some sweat glands. They typically occur where skin rubs together, such as in the groin, armpits, and buttocks. The lumps may break open and emit a bad smell or cause tunnels under the skin. Hidradenitis suppurativa can persist for several years, and this skin condition usually worsens with time. It can impact one’s daily life as well as mental well-being. Therefore, it is vital to diagnose it in time so that a doctor can recommend appropriate treatment. With the right treatment, one can also prevent the formation of new lumps and other complications such as depression. Common symptoms of hidradenitis suppurativa Hidradenitis suppurativa typically occurs in areas surrounding the hair follicles. It may also appear in a single area or multiple parts of the body. Common signs and symptoms of this disease that you should watch out for include: Red and tender bumps: The condition is often marked by small and tender red bumps which occur in areas where the skin rubs together. These bumps may become bigger and fill with pus. When this pus drains out, it may emit a bad odor. Itching and a burning sensation often accompany these bumps. Blackheads: This is another common symptom of the condition. Small, pitted areas of the skin develop a lot of blackheads that appear in a double-barreled pattern. Extremely painful lumps: Small, pea-sized lumps develop under the skin. These lumps may persist for years together, and at some point, may become swollen and inflamed.

Kidney cancer is one of the cancers that may or may not cause kidney cancer symptoms in the initial stages of the condition. This makes early detection and a good prognosis difficult. Be aware, and do not ignore these kidney cancer symptoms. Kidney cancer is a result of your kidney cells becoming malignant (cancerous). These cells then begin growing abnormally out of proportion to form a stubborn tumor. The medical term for this disease is ‘renal cell carcinoma’. In most cases, kidney cancers appear in the minute tubes of the kidney. The good news is that if detected at an earlier stage, before the cancer has metastasized (spread) to other organs, the chances of successful surgical treatments are much higher. However it is also true that the exact cause of this disease is unknown. This means that a very important piece of this Big C puzzle is missing. Added to this, there are little to no kidney cancer symptoms in the early stages. Furthermore there are some kidney cancer symptoms that you may mistake for signs of other conditions. Keep an eye out for these kidney cancer symptoms, and do not delay seeking help from a doctor at the earliest if you notice one or more of these symptoms. Weight loss The clue is to notice any kind of unexplained weight loss. If you have not changed your diet or appetite recently, but are still experiencing a drastic weight loss (about 5 to 10 percent of overall body weight), get off the weighing scale and get to your doctor to check for signs of kidney cancer symptoms or other conditions. Intermittent fever If you keep getting fever that lasts for a long time, and that has not been caused by any other infection such as cold, flu or any other disease, it may be one of the elusive kidney cancer symptoms.

A sudden bout of coughing accompanied by sneezing or breathlessness can be an indication of pneumonia. One of the most common types of lung infection, pneumonia affects people of all ages. Children and adults with low resistance power are more prone to this condition. However, medicines and cures are available for pneumonia and diagnosing it at an early stage does not make any life threatening impact on the patient. However, fatalities can occur if the infection is left untreated for several days or has led to severe inflammation of the lungs. Symptoms of Pneumonia Understanding the symptoms of pneumonia can help in diagnosing the condition at an early stage. Though the symptoms may vary depending on the age and health of patient or severity of the condition, the common signs mostly remain the same. When talking about common signs, one cannot ignore, coughing with mucus or phlegm, which is often mistreated as a common cold allergy. Apart from that, chest pain accompanied by difficulty in breathing also hints about the onset of this infection. Some patients also complain of fever, chills, and sweating. Symptoms of pneumonia may also at times vary with the cause of infection. While viral pneumonia causes flu-like symptoms including wheezing or high fever, sudden high fever along with profuse sweating may indicate bacterial pneumonia. Confusion, discoloration or bluish tint on nails and lips may also be a sign of bacterial pneumonia. Not just the underlying cause, symptoms may vary according to the age of the patients as well. Children below the age of five years may experience shortness of breath, vomiting or fatigue as indications of pneumonia. Some may also find difficulty in eating or drinking as well. However, older people are often found to have below normal temperature during the onset of pneumonia. Causes of pneumonia While detecting the symptoms of pneumonia helps in faster diagnosis of the infection, it is also important to learn the causes as well.

Human life would have been simpler if we weren’t threatened by the onset of diseases every once in a while. However, with the right kind of lifestyle that involves eating healthy food and exercising regularly, we can lead an “almost” disease-free life. The right kind of food and our attempts to maintain the perfect body weight goes a long way in strengthening our immune system. One can think of our immune system as the guardian of our entire system. A healthy immune system helps keep a lot of diseases at bay. Thus, we are capable of thwarting certain diseases with the help of a strong immune system. Have you ever given a thought what the consequences will be if our immune system is the one that becomes the cause of our misery? Well, if the immune system is the culprit of the misery inflicted on you, it results in allergies. What causes allergies? Certain harmless elements in the environment can trigger an allergy. The immune system is known to protect the body against viruses and bacteria. However, when these harmless elements enter the body, the immune system mistakes them for some malicious agents and begins attacking them. This reaction of the immune system is the root cause of allergies. The allergens are basically harmless elements, but it’s the immune system’s reaction to it that causes allergies. What are the most common allergens? The most common allergens are nothing but some of the elements that we come across so many times in our lives. Some of them are as follows: Certain foods can cause allergy. For example, nuts, fish, fruits, etc. If you own a pet, the cause of your allergy might be pet dander. Sometimes, certain medicines can trigger an allergic reaction in an individual. Pollen allergy is one of the most common kinds of allergies.

Our bodies are made up of different kinds of cells. Blood cells are an important type of cell that is further bifurcated into three parts, namely white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. Each type of blood cell plays an essential role in the human body. Red blood cells remove carbon dioxide from the body and carry oxygen to the tissues. Platelets prevent bleeding by forming blood clots. While blood cells are an essential part of the immune system and help fight infection and protect the body from foreign substances. There are several types of white blood cells. B lymphocytes are a type of white blood cells that become plasma cells upon identifying antigens in the body. Plasma cells and multiple myeloma Plasma cells produce antibodies that fight antigens, otherwise known as harmful foreign substances. These cells are normally present in the bone marrow in a limited number, but they can turn into a tumor upon abnormal cell multiplication. The tumor can turn cancerous and may cause multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. While scientists do not know the exact cause of multiple myeloma, they have conducted studies on how certain DNA changes can cause the plasma cells to turn cancerous and form a tumor. Multiple myeloma can lead to a loss of red blood cells, causing anemia. It can also decrease the number of platelets in the blood, which causes increased bleeding and bruising. Multiple myeloma even causes a shortage of white blood cells that leads to problems in fighting infections. Medical researchers and doctors who have been studying multiple myeloma are looking for a cure and methods to prevent this disease. Preventing it becomes less challenging when one knows the risk factors and early signs of cancer. Identifying the risk factors and taking the right measures to eliminate the risk can be an effective way to prevent multiple myeloma.

The changes in your body that you have been ignoring may actually be cervical cancer symptoms. Here’s what you need to know. Cervical cancer is the type of cancer that affects the cells of the cervix in a woman—cervix is the narrow lower part of your uterus and is connected to the vagina. The cause of this form of cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually-transmitted infection that is quite common. When you are exposed to this virus strain, your immune system usually stops the virus from causing any harm. But in some women, this virus survives in their bodies for several years and adds to the process of causing cells on the surface of the cervix to turn cancerous. It is possible that a woman experiencing certain cervical cancer symptoms has been brushing it aside as some minor bodily change. This delay can lead to worsening of the symptoms, so visit a doctor at the earliest if you notice any of the following cervical cancer symptoms occurring in your body. Unusual vaginal bleeding Many women experience irregularities in the menstrual cycles, in addition to some harmless cases of bleeding between the regular cycles. However, it can also be one of the cervical cancer symptoms, so it is always safer to consult your doctor to determine the exact cause. Particularly, bleeding after sexual intercourse, longer and heavier periods than usual, and bleeding after you have reached menopause can be worrisome, so don’t delay getting such problems checked by a medical professional. Changes in vaginal discharge If you notice any unusual vaginal discharge, it may be an indication of cervical cancer. It is normal to have a small amount of discharge, but if it is one of the cervical cancer symptoms, the discharge may be watery, pale or brown in color, and have a foul odor.

There are various warning signs that may actually be an indication of Alzheimer’s, which you have been brushing off as old age-related problems or stress. Are you or a loved one displaying any of these Alzheimer’s symptoms? Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive condition that affects memory and important functions of the mind, usually affect the elderly, but can also appear in younger people. This mental disease causes the death of brain cells in a person, which can eventually lead to drastic personality changes and significant memory loss. Alzheimer’s disease is also the leading cause of dementia, a cluster of brain disorders that result in the loss of social and intellectual skills in people. There is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but the proper medications and treatment plan can help in keeping Alzheimer’s symptoms under control. Early detection of this health disorder is crucial as you can get the maximum benefits out of your treatment if you seek medical help during the initial stages of the disease. For this, it is important that you are aware of the Alzheimer’s symptoms, especially the ones that could be warning signs of the onset of the disease. Here are some of the early Alzheimer’s symptoms that you need to look out for in people close to you, whether it is a family member, friend, or even yourself. Memory loss that causes problems in daily life This is one of the most common Alzheimer’s symptoms, yet one that we tend to ignore easily. Every person experiences the occasional memory lapses wherein you forgot where you put your keys, to get the milk from the store, or the name of an acquaintance. However, if your memory loss is due to the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms, it can be a persistent condition. Notice if you or a loved one constantly loses track of important information, big events, and names of friends and family members.

Recognizing the subtle yet critical distinctions between Parkinson’s disease and Tardive Dyskinesia (TD) might be a challenging task for healthcare professionals. This is because these neurological conditions share some common signs, such as involuntary movements and speech difficulties. However, understanding their unique presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis. Learning about the signs could also help curate the right treatment plan. Here are seven similar early signs between Parkinson’s and TD that are often overlooked. Anxiety Both Parkinson’s and TD can enhance anxiety levels in affected individuals. Managing not only the motor symptoms but also the emotional well-being of patients is crucial for their comprehensive care. Impaired gait People with Parkinson’s disease and TD might also experience impaired gait. In Parkinson’s, it results in a shuffling, hesitant walk due to muscle rigidity, and balance problems. In TD, abnormal, jerky limb and trunk movements disrupt coordination, leading to an unsteady gait. These gait disturbances significantly affect mobility and daily life. Problems with speech Parkinson’s and TD often lead to pronounced speech difficulties due to involuntary movements affecting the tongue, lips, and facial muscles. This results in slurred speech, articulation challenges, and difficulties forming words, severely impeding effective communication. Akathisia Akathisia or feeling of restlessness, poses a shared challenge in people with Parkinson’s and TD. In Parkinson’s patients, it often emerges as a byproduct of motor discomfort due to bradykinesia and rigidity, leading patients to shift positions restlessly. In TD, akathisia may result from certain treatment options, which may cause restlessness and make it difficult for patients to remain still. Depression In Parkinson’s, dopamine deficiency and motor impairments contribute to emotional distress. TD’s involuntary movements may lead to social isolation and depression. Both conditions highlight the need for holistic care to enhance the overall well-being of patients. Grunting Grunting in Parkinson’s disease and TD is an often overlooked phenomenon.

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is a condition characterized by the inability of the pancreas to produce and release enough enzymes into the small intestine to digest food properly. Various health conditions, such as chronic pancreatitis and cystic fibrosis, can cause EPI. Due to the lack of enough pancreatic enzymes to break down foods, one might experience symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal discomfort. Understanding these warning signs is crucial for early diagnosis and management. Causes Damage to the pancreas is the most common cause of EPI. Inflammation of the pancreas is a key contributor, which could also trigger swelling. With time, chronic inflammation may damage pancreatic cells that make the digestive enzymes. Other potential causes include Celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), diabetes, pancreatic cancer, and surgery on the digestive tract. Symptoms People with EPI may have trouble absorbing fats from foods, resulting in abdominal pain, gas, and bloating. Other symptoms include diarrhea, fatty stools, and unexplained body mass loss. Some people might also feel full even after eating small meals. Management options A healthy meal plan A health expert might recommend a high-calorie, high-fat meal regime to help the body absorb more nutrients. The professional may also suggest eating six small meals daily instead of the traditional three. Bigger meals might not be a good choice if one has digestive trouble caused by EPI. Essential vitamins People with EPI may need to intake various vitamins to help the body balance nutrient levels. Along with a healthy meal regime, patients may need to have vitamins A, D, E, and K for better management. It could help those who struggle to absorb fat-soluble nutrients from food. Regular doctor appointments While a doctor may recommend various treatment options for EPI, patients should consult the professional regularly to monitor their progress, identify any underlying complications, and get them treated as soon as possible.

The skeletal muscles connect to the bones and help move the face, arms, and legs. Autoimmune conditions like myasthenia gravis can weaken these muscles, making it difficult to perform various tasks, like blinking, making facial expressions, chewing, or walking up the stairs. Muscle weakness can worsen after physical activity and improve after a while of rest rest. While myasthenia gravis may not go away, treatment can help control its symptoms. Signs A person with myasthenia gravis might experience various signs. Fatigue Droopy eyelids Limited facial expressions Trouble speaking, chewing, or swallowing Trouble walking Causes The condition usually develops when the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks itself. Some experts believe this happens because specific immune system cells in the thymus gland have trouble differentiating threats like viruses or bacteria from healthy body components. Sometimes, genetic changes can result in a specific form of the condition called congenital myasthenia gravis. Similarly, children who receive antibodies from a birthing parent during pregnancy might be affected by neonatal myasthenia. Treatment options Those with myasthenia gravis might need to follow various expert-recommended treatment options to control the symptoms. Plasma exchange In this procedure, a machine is used to remove unwanted antibodies from the blood plasma and replace them with donor plasma. Sometimes, doctors suggest replacing existing plasma with a plasma solution. IV or SC immunoglobulin Some may receive infusions of donor antibodies or immunoglobulin over two to five days through the intravenous (IV) or subcutaneous (SC) route. This treatment may help manage specific types of the condition and even certain complications. RYSTIGGO® Healthcare professionals may use UCB’s RYSTIGGO® ( rozanolixizumab-noli ) to manage generalized myasthenia gravis (gMG) in adults. In this type, harmful anti-AChR or anti-MuSK antibodies may interfere with signals between nerves and specific receptors on muscles. The complication may trigger a loss of signaling in the neuromuscular junction, where the nerves and muscles meet.

Lung cancer symptoms may easily be misdiagnosed. An early diagnosis is important for your survival – you can’t afford to ignore these telltale signs. Lung cancer is defined as the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the lungs. Instead of developing into healthy lung tissue, these abnormal cells fail to carry out any of the functions of the lung. Their exponential growth is life-threatening as they may form tumors and prevent the healthy tissues from doing their job. Furthermore, these primary lung cancer cells may travel to other parts of the body. This results in metastatic lung cancer. Unfortunately, lung cancer signs and symptoms may take years to develop fully, and only manifest in later and more advanced stages of the disease. For approximately 40 percent of cases, diagnosis is only possible in advanced stages. Even though the disease gives you little to no warning, there are a few lung cancer symptoms that you can watch out for. Those who are at a high risk for lung cancer are advised to sign up for early screening. Early detection of lung cancer symptoms makes a huge difference in your survival rate. If any of the following innocuous-looking symptoms persist, do not ignore them, and instead, seek professional help immediately. Persistent Cough Most people tend to ignore a persistent cough by saying that it is “just a cough”, and nothing to worry about. This oversight may cost you dearly. In general, a cough associated with a cold or respiratory infection disappears within a week or two. If your cough seems more stubborn and lingers on for a while after that, see your physician immediately. It does not matter if your cough is a dry one or produces mucus; if it is persistent, it could be one of the lung cancer symptoms. Changes in Chronic Cough If you are a smoker, chances are that you suffer from a chronic cough.

Irritable bowel syndrome or IBS is a common disorder that affects the digestive system. Symptoms of IBS include abdominal cramps, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, etc. Almost all symptoms of IBS are gastrointestinal. Irritable bowel syndrome has a significant negative impact on the quality of life. IBS can persist for years and may be interspersed with periods of no symptoms. Disorders such as anxiety, depression, and chronic fatigue syndrome, are common in people with irritable bowel syndrome. Irritable bowel syndrome is characterized by changes in bowel movements without apparent cause. Based on this, irritable bowel syndrome is classified into four types depending on the type of bowel dysfunction, constipation dominant, diarrhea-dominant, both constipation and diarrhea, and neither constipation nor diarrhea. It is estimated that 10-15% of the global population is affected by irritable bowel syndrome. Signs and symptoms of IBS The signs and symptoms of IBS can vary from person to person. The primary symptoms of IBS are abdominal pain and changes in bowel movements. Symptoms of IBS tend to be acute with attacks that are experienced for a few days or weeks. These attacks eventually subside and may be recurrent. Other symptoms of IBS are bloating, gas, cramps, nausea, constipation, and diarrhea. Along with this, there may be a sense of urgency in bowel movements and a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation. Abdominal distension may also be seen. People with irritable bowel syndrome also tend to suffer from gastric reflux, a loss of appetite, lowered libido, lower abdominal pain, fatigue, and headache. Since these symptoms are rather vague, irritable bowel syndrome is a diagnosis of exclusion. This means that there are more serious conditions that must be excluded before a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome can be made. Signs and symptoms that point to a more serious disorder include blood in the stool, rapid weight loss, abdominal pain persisting at night, etc.