Lupus is a complicated and often debilitating condition that affects many people. Catching the first symptoms of lupus early is important for initiating treatment of this condition. Lupus is a collection of autoimmune disorders rather than one single disease. In an autoimmune disorder, the body’s immune system attacks the body itself. Lupus is a chronic condition, and the most severe and most common form of lupus is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. The first symptoms of lupus can manifest in a variety of ways. Since the autoimmune reaction causes inflammation to a number of different areas like the joints, skin, heart, kidneys, and lungs, it becomes hard to pinpoint one specific indicator as a sign of lupus. These vague first symptoms of lupus also make it hard to diagnose the condition accurately, since it can mimic a number of other diseases and conditions. The first symptoms of lupus manifest in early adulthood or the late teens, but some late-onset cases develop in the 30s. More instances of lupus occur in women than men. People with lupus experience flare-ups of the condition, followed by periods of remission that can last for months, or even years, followed by more flare-ups. This can make it easy to overlook the first symptoms of lupus. First Symptoms Of Lupus The first symptoms of lupus can manifest in many ways depending on the part of the body that is affected. These are a few of the more generalized first symptoms of lupus: Fever Joint pain Fatigue General discomfort Hair loss Swollen lymph nodes Sensitivity to sunlight Other Symptoms of Lupus Butterfly rash The butterfly rash is the most common indicator of lupus and is quite specific to this condition. However, in a few rare cases, the rash may not develop at all. The rash is red and bumpy and extends from the bridge of the nose across the cheeks, which gives it the appearance of butterfly wings.

A migraine is a headache that occurs due to changes in the brain and the blood vessels surrounding it. This headache can last from four hours to three days, with the frequency varying from a daily basis to less than once a year. National Headache Foundation has found out that around 37 million people in the country have issues related to migraine. Also, it affects women three times more than it affects men. Causes of migraine headaches The exact causes of migraine headaches are yet not known, but it is believed that it occurs due to the expansion of the blood vessels and release of some chemicals, which results in the occurrence of pain. Two chemicals, namely serotonin and dopamine, have been found to be responsible for the occurrence of a migraine. These two chemicals are generally found in the brain but can result in abnormal functioning of blood vessels. It is, however, known that different triggers ignite a migraine, and different people have distinct triggers, which incite a migraine in them. Foods such as cheese, nuts, and chocolate are the causes of migraine headaches in some people. Others find that missing a meal can result in a headache, which eventually transforms into a migraine. Tension and stress are some other causes of migraine headaches. This stress could be emotional or physical. Symptoms of a migraine The symptoms of a migraine also vary with people. Five distinct phases of a migraine are known now. Prodrome A migraine has many pre-warnings before it occurs. Change in mood, change in sensations, fatigue, and muscle tension are some of the warnings which indicate that a migraine is about to occur. Aura This is kind of sensory disturbance which precedes a headache. Some people see blind spots and feel as if geometric patterns and colorful lights are visible.

The thyroid is one of the most important glands in the body. It is shaped like a butterfly and is located in the front of the neck, just below the thyroid gland, around the windpipe. The isthmus—a bridge of tissues—joins the two thyroid lobes on each side. The thyroid gland helps regulate several metabolic processes throughout the body. When there are certain discrepancies noted in the functioning of this gland, it could cause either hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism and so on. Symptoms of thyroid problems are often very distinctly noticed in the human body. The different types of thyroid problems affect either the gland’s functioning or its structure as a whole. The thyroid gland produces four important hormones to regulate the metabolism of the body. Of these four, thyroxine is the primary hormone produced by the thyroid gland; it is also known as T4. After its delivery to the tissues via the bloodstream, a tiny portion of the thyroxine released by the gland is converted into triiodothyronine, the most active hormone produced by the thyroid. It is also known as T3. Iodine is mainly used by the thyroid gland to produce these vital hormones. The functionality of the thyroid gland is controlled and regulated by a mechanism involving feedback received by the brain. When thyroid hormone levels are low, the hypothalamus in the brain produces thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). The release of this hormone causes the pituitary gland to release thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). The TSH causes the thyroid gland to release more thyroxin. Disruptions in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland can affect the functionality of the thyroid gland and cause several thyroid-related problems. Mentioned below are some of the types of thyroid problems and their symptoms. Hypothyroidism This condition is categorized with the thyroid gland producing lesser quantities of its primary hormones.

Dry eye syndrome is a common health condition attributed to inadequate lubrication of eyes. It can happen either due to insufficient production of tears or low-quality tears. Dry eyes are very uncomfortable and cause a burning sensation in the eyes. Generally, dry eyes develop due to uninterrupted working on computer screens, sitting in air-conditioned rooms for longer durations, or while long driving. Here is a closer look at dry eye symptoms and treatment options. Prevalence According to one estimate, millions of people in the country suffer from dry eyes. Moreover, it increases with increasing age, and women are more prone to develop dry eyes compared to men. Causes of dry eyes Several factors lead to dry eyes. A few are listed below: Use of medications such as antihistamines, birth control pills, and hormone replacement therapy Dry eyes are more prevalent in people aged above 50 Vitamin A and vitamin B 12 deficiency, diabetes, and thyroid disorders are also linked with dry eyes Insufficient blinking, allergies, and autoimmune disorders Chronic conjunctivitis Symptoms of dry eyes Common dry eye symptoms are: Red eyes and burning sensations and eye fatigue Blurred vision and light sensitivity Difficulty in driving A problem in wearing lenses Ways to treat dry eyes Use of lubricants Mild dry eye symptoms due to excessive use of computer or reading can be treated with artificial tears or lubricant eye drops. Other options are the use of gels and/or lubricants after consultation with a doctor. Lifestyle changes Take periodic breaks while working on a computer screen. Blinking eyes frequently and closing them for a few minutes while using a smartphone or any digital device may also help in reducing the symptoms of dry eye. This allows basal tears to spread uniformly across the eye. In case of long driving, wear proper sunglasses which covers the eyes completely thus protects your eyes from dust particles and warm air.

Cholesterol is a thick and waxy, fat-like substance widely found in every cell of the body. Produced by the liver, cholesterol is essential for the production of certain hormones, vitamin D as well as some substances that aid in digestion. Cholesterol is transported through the bloodstream by small particles called lipoproteins. Healthy cholesterol levels protect an individual against heart diseases. However, at the same time, if the level of cholesterol rises beyond a certain limit, it can build up in the arteries and become the cause for a heart attack or stroke. There are two types of lipoproteins — low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which causes heart diseases, and high-density lipoproteins (HDL), which returns the LDL cholesterol to the liver for elimination from the human body. If the level of LDL cholesterol is high, or the level of HDL cholesterol is low, fatty deposits can build up in the blood vessels, leading to a blockage of the arteries. This condition is called high cholesterol. Thankfully, there are plenty of treatment options that help in controlling the LDL cholesterol levels. Common symptoms of high cholesterol There are no visible symptoms of high cholesterol. So, an individual could have this condition and yet know nothing about it. If a person has high cholesterol, their body will store all the excess cholesterol in the arteries. Arteries are responsible for transporting blood from the heart to the rest of the body. A buildup of cholesterol in the arteries can result in plaque, which in turn makes these arteries narrow. If the cholesterol levels keep rising, it can lead to a blockage in the arteries. In case the arteries that supply blood to the heart muscles get blocked, a person can have a heart attack. Similarly, if there is a blockage in the artery that delivers blood to the brain, a person experiences a stroke.

PAH or pulmonary arterial hypertension is also known as primary pulmonary hypertension. It is a very rare hypertension disease that affects your capillaries and arteries. The blood from the right ventricles of your heart flows into your lungs through these vessels. When the pressure in your arteries arises, your heart has to work much harder to pump the blood and as a result, it weakens the heart muscles. This can result in death as well. You cannot be cured of primary pulmonary hypertension. However, there are treatment options available for you to cope with it. Symptoms During the early stages of the primary pulmonary hypertension, you will not get any such noticeable symptoms. However, as your condition gets from bad to worse, there will be some symptoms that will get more and more noticeable. These symptoms include: Dizziness Chest pressure Fainting Fatigue Difficulty breathing Heart palpitations Rapid pulse Chest pain Bluish spots on your skin and lip Swelling of legs and ankles Swelling of your abdomen towards the later part of your disease You will find it difficult to breathe when you exercise or perform any other type of physical activity. Also, you might find it difficult to breathe even at the time when you are taking rest. Causes PAH happens when the capillaries and the arteries which carry the blood from the heart to the lungs gets destroyed or constricted. This happens due to multiple reasons. But the exact reason for primary pulmonary hypertension is yet to be discovered by the doctors and scientists. According to research, almost 15% to 20% of the people who suffer from PAH in the country have it hereditarily. This is due to the mutation that takes place in the BMPR2 gene or other genes. This genetic mutation can continue to happen from generation to generation leaving someone a chance to develop this disease at the later part of their life.

Poison ivy is a toxic plant widely found throughout the country. This plant, upon contact with human skin, causes a painful rash, known as contact dermatitis. The rash is caused by an allergic reaction to an oily resin, called urushiol, which is found in the leaves, roots, and stem of the plant. If you come in contact with the oil, wash your hands immediately to avoid the rash. In case it develops, it may be extremely itchy and last for weeks. Mild cases of poison ivy rash can be treated at home, using cool baths and soothing lotions. However, if the rash becomes widespread and severe, you may require proper medical evaluation and suitable medication. Common symptoms of poison ivy rash Usually, the rash appears after 12 to 48 hours of the contact and lasts up to 2-3 weeks. The most common symptoms include: Swelling Redness Itching Blisters Difficulty in breathing. This usually happens if you have inhaled the smoke produced from the burning of poison ivy. The severity of the rash depends upon the amount of urushiol that comes in contact with your skin. If this oil is more, the rash will be more intense. Usually, the rash looks like a straight line because of the way the plant brushes against your body. If you come in contact with urushiol through pet fur or some piece of clothing, the resultant rash will be more widespread. This rash can be spread to other parts of your body through your fingers. Treatment of poison ivy rash There is no specific poison ivy treatment available on prescription. The rash generally clears up on its own with 2-3 weeks. However, there are some options that can help to lessen the severity of the symptoms. Changing clothes and showering It is important to take a shower and wear fresh clothes after coming home from outside.

Toenail fungus is a common problem that begins with a white or yellow spot under the tip of your toenail. Nail fungus may cause your nail to discolor, thicken, and crumble at the edge as the fungal infection goes deeper. It can attack any nail. You may not need a treatment if your condition is light and not disturbing you. If the nail fungus becomes painful and makes the nails thickened, home remedies and medications may be effective. Nail fungus usually comes back even if the treatment is successful. Read on to know the symptoms nail fungus and methods on how to get rid of it: Symptoms Although the fungus mainly affects the toenails, nail fungus can affect any fingernail. If properly treated, fungal nail infections don’t usually lead to serious long-term problems. However, in certain individuals who have diabetes or a weakened immune system, they may be more serious. There is no pain associated with the infection, but if you find your nails thickened or show discoloration from white to yellowish brown, you may have fingernail fungus. Nails becoming brittle, crumbly, ragged or distorted in shape are also its symptoms. Debris may build up under the nail and make the nail dark. Sometimes, the nail may generate a slightly foul smell. Treatment Medications Usually, doctors prescribe antifungal medications that you can take orally or apply to the nail for fingernail fungus treatment . In some cases, the oral and topical antifungal therapies may be combined. Oral Antifungal Medication This is the best toenail fungus treatment as it clears the infection more quickly than anything else. However, the treatment success rates with these medications appear to be lower in adults over age 65. These medications stimulate a new nail to grow free of infection by slowly replacing the infected part.

Have you ever imagined that a bug that is not visible to the naked eye could cause serious allergic reactions? Dust mites that can only be seen through a microscope can cause allergies that may even lead to breathing difficulties! Belonging to the tick and spider family, dust mites can be found in warm and humid environments. Common places at home where these mites thrive are bedding, soft toys, upholsteries, and carpeting. These microscopic creatures feed on dead skin. On an average, around one and a half grams of skin is shed every day by an adult human. This is the best food for dust mites. A runny nose and sneezing fits are common dust mite allergy symptoms. Long-term exposure to these mites may result in asthma and sinus infections. What is a Dust Mite Allergy? Dust mites survive in any type of climate and almost any altitude. These are microscopic bugs that thrive in humid conditions and feed on the dead skin that shed by humans. As many as 20 million people in the country are affected by dust mite allergy. When people are exposed to the waste products of dust mites, the immune system is triggered. As a result, antibodies are produced against normal, harmless substances. Dust mite allergy symptoms such as a runny nose, watering eyes, sneezing, and itching are triggered due to the immune system’s response. Although your home may seem clean, dust mites may be dwelling in your mattresses, cushions, upholstery and stuffed toys! They thrive on mattresses and pillows. Dust mite allergy symptoms increase over time as you continue to breathe in the waste particles of dust mites. Symptoms of Dust Mite Allergy Dust mite allergy symptoms are similar to that of nasal allergies like sinus or rhinitis. Common symptoms of dust mite allergy are as follows:

Huntington’s disease is not just a physical disorder. One needs to understand the physical and mental stress it causes along with its symptoms. Huntington’s disease causes a progressive breakdown (degeneration) of the nerve cells in the brain. The symptoms of Huntington’s disease develop mostly in people between the age of 30 to 40 years, but it can strike anyone from children to seniors. If a patient falls prey to this condition before the age of 20, it is known as juvenile Huntington’s disease. The symptoms of this condition vary depending on when one develops this disease. Over 10 to 25 years, it kills nerve cells in the brain which affects the body, mind, and emotions of a patient. The symptoms of Huntington’s disease differ from person to person, and these symptoms can worsen if a person goes through a lot of stress and excitement. The initial signs such as abnormal movements are easily detectable. Weight loss is a constant cause of a concern through all stages of this disorder. Medical science has progressed a lot, and now, medicines are available for dealing with the symptoms of Huntington’s disease. However, one cannot prevent the physical, mental, and behavioral decline associated with the condition through treatment. Symptoms With a broad range of signs and symptoms, Huntington’s disease typically causes movement, cognitive, and psychiatric disorders. Some disorders appear to be more aggressive and have a significant effect on a patient’s ability to function normally. Movement disorder Huntington’s disease is linked to involuntary movements as well as impairments. A patient may exhibit actions such as: Involuntary yanking or writhing movements (chorea) Rigid or contracture muscles (dystonia) Abnormal or slow eye movements Impaired gait, posture, and balance Difficulty in speech or swallowing As time passes by, the symptoms may interfere with a patient’s day-to-day life.

One can experience a number of symptoms when having such a disease like an overactive bladder. The most common symptom of an overactive bladder includes sudden and uncontrollable pressure for urination. Leaks and frequent visit to the bathroom are the common behavior for a person having bladder disorder. Aged people are more vulnerable to this disease than youngsters and it can badly affect one’s personal and professional life. People often take its symptoms lightly and simply ignore them believing they can deal with such issues. The disease of overactive bladder can turn out be life-threatening if it is ignored or undiagnosed. If you experience the discontinuity in the urge for urination, you should immediately consult with your doctor to get treatments for overactive bladder disorder. Test to confirm overactive bladder disease If you find abnormalities in the urge of urination, let your doctor find the actual reasons behind the disorder. Your doctor will ensure if you have an infection in your bladder. Your doctor may ask you whether you empty your bladder completely during urination or not. The process of diagnosis may also include the physical examination, checking up medical history, neurological examination and the test of the urine sample. Your doctor may also ask you for a urodynamic test to ensure your bladder’s capability to turn empty completely. The amount of urine left inside the bladder, test for flow rate and pressure are considered in the process to ensure your bladder disorder. Your available treatment options One can develop overactive bladder disorder due to several factors. Likewise, a patient can go through a number of available treatment options. Have a look at some convenient treatment options to cure overactive bladder. Dietary treatments You can get rid of the symptoms of overactive bladder by cutting out some food items from your dietary chart.

Lymph nodes are a part of the lymphatic system, one of the components of the immune system of the body. Usually, swollen lymph nodes occur as the result of exposure to viruses or bacteria and indicate an infection. According to various medical research reports, the swollen lymph node in the neck is the most common along with swollen lymph nodes in other places like under the chin, in the groin and in the armpits. Usually, these lymph nodes are not visible. When these get enlarged, only then the lymph nodes become visible in the certain body areas. Especially, in the neck, behind the ear or in the groin, you may notice these as the enlarged bumps. Also, one can feel the enlarged lymph nodes by moving the hand slowly around the area that has become swollen. One can feel whether the lymph nodes are tender or not as well. Well, in order to treat the swollen lymph node in neck, diagnosing the underlying cause properly is important. With proper treatment, swollen lymph gets better. Various medications are available to deal with the infection, swelling, and pain caused by it. However, it is advisable to take any medication only under the guidance of a medical expert. Here is a list of the possible causes and symptoms of swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Causes of a swollen lymph node in the neck Sometimes, the swollen lymph nodes are referred to as the swollen glands. Viral infections One of the most common causes of these swollen lymph nodes is a viral infection. Usually, a viral upper respiratory infection like common cold is the most common cause. Here is a list of the viruses that can cause the swollen glands: Chickenpox Infectious mononucleosis HIV Measles Adenovirus Common cold viruses Herpes Not only the viruses mentioned above, but also many fungi, parasites, and bacteria cause swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck.