Diseases and Disorders
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Thyroid Disorders
The human body is a marvel of biological engineering, with each component performing a specific role that contributes to the overall health and wellbeing of the individual. Among these components, the thyroid, a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the lower front of the neck, plays a significant role in the body’s overall function. This article will explore two common conditions associated with the thyroid: hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Understanding the Thyroid Gland Before delving into these conditions, it is crucial to understand the thyroid’s primary role. The thyroid gland produces three hormones: Thyroxine (T4), Triiodothyronine (T3), and Calcitonin. T4 and T3 are integral to various bodily functions, such as metabolism, growth,…
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Understanding ALS
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), often referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a swiftly progressing, fatal neurodegenerative disease. ALS attacks the nerve cells that are responsible for controlling voluntary muscles. As the disease advances, the ability to eat, speak, walk, and eventually breathe becomes severely compromised. Currently, there is no known cure for ALS. In Canada, it is estimated that between 2,500 and 3,000 individuals are living with this debilitating disease. The life of an ALS patient is typically fraught with physical challenges, as well as a profound emotional and psychological impact on both the patients and their loved ones. It is important to highlight that eighty per cent of…
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IBD
Inflammatory bowel disease, commonly known as IBD, is a group of chronic inflammatory conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The two primary types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. While both conditions involve chronic inflammation and share some common symptoms, they differ in the areas of the digestive system they affect and the nature of the inflammation. Understanding the fundamentals of IBD, its symptoms, who it affects, and how to manage it can help provide support for those living with this often debilitating condition. Crohn’s disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, but it most commonly involves the small intestine and…
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Understanding and Managing Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease, which means that the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue instead of foreign substances like bacteria and viruses. This immune response can cause inflammation, swelling, pain, and damage to various organs and tissues in the body. Although the exact cause of lupus is not yet fully understood, researchers believe that a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors may contribute to the development of the disease. There are four main types of lupus: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): This is the most common form of lupus, affecting multiple organs and systems in the body. Approximately 70% of all lupus cases are SLE. Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (CLE):…
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Navigating Life with Celiac Disease
Celiac disease, a common autoimmune disorder in which the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, triggers an immune response that damages the small intestine, affects approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide. Celiac disease can be challenging to manage, especially for those who are newly diagnosed, as it requires significant lifestyle and dietary changes. Symptoms of Celiac Disease Symptoms of celiac disease can vary greatly among individuals, making it difficult to diagnose. Common symptoms include: Gastrointestinal issues: Bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain are common symptoms. Fatigue: Many people with celiac disease experience chronic fatigue and a lack of energy. Weight loss: Unintentional weight loss…
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A New Hope for Alzheimer’s Patients
Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. This progressive illness causes memory loss, cognitive decline, and eventually, the inability to perform daily activities. The exact cause of Alzheimer’s is still unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Researchers have identified two proteins, amyloid and tau, that play a crucial role in the disease’s development. Amyloid proteins clump together to form plaques, while tau proteins form tangles, both of which disrupt communication between brain cells and trigger inflammation, ultimately leading to cell death. Despite ongoing research efforts, finding an effective treatment for Alzheimer’s has been an uphill…
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Understanding Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects approximately 1 in 100 people worldwide. It is a serious condition in which the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, leads to damage in the small intestine. This damage results in an inability to absorb essential nutrients, causing a wide range of health problems. In this comprehensive article, we will discuss what celiac disease is, its symptoms, and provide a list of foods to avoid and reasons why. What is Celiac Disease? Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that occurs in genetically predisposed individuals. When a person with celiac disease ingests gluten, their immune system mistakenly attacks…
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A Comprehensive Guide to Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It primarily affects the lungs, but can also infect other organs in the body. TB has been a significant public health concern for centuries and remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide, particularly in developing countries. In this extensive article, we will delve into the nature of tuberculosis, its transmission, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. I. Understanding Tuberculosis The History of Tuberculosis Tuberculosis has been present in human populations for thousands of years. Evidence of the disease has been found in ancient Egyptian mummies and prehistoric human remains. The term “tuberculosis” was first…
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Types of Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease is a progressive form of dementia that affects memory, thinking and behavior. It is the most common form of dementia, and is ranked among the top 10 leading causes of death in Canada. It is is a complex disease, and there are several different types that can be diagnosed. The first type of Alzheimer’s is known as early-onset Alzheimer’s, which is diagnosed in people under the age of 65. Early-onset Alzheimer’s is relatively rare, but it is typically more aggressive, and can have a significant impact on a person’s daily life. The second type of Alzheimer’s is late-onset Alzheimer’s. This is the most common type of Alzheimer’s that…