The burning sensation in the chest just behind the breastbone is called heartburn. Usually, when lying down or bending over, the pain of heartburn gets worse.
An occasional heartburn is quite common and is no cause for alarm. With lifestyle changes and over-the-counter (OTC) medications, most people can manage the discomfort of heartburn on their own.
However, when heartburn is more frequent and interferes with daily routine, it ... more
When an obstruction in the brain prevents proper fluid drainage and fluid builds up in the brain, hydrocephalus occurs, which is also known as "water on the brain". Brain damage could result in case the excess fluid compresses the surrounding fragile brain tissue. Hydrocephalus could be fatal when it's left without treatment.
Hydrocephalus could be present at birth, or it could develop later in life. This disorder is ... more
The excessive collection of items and the inability to discard them is called hoarding. Usually, hoarding creates cramped living conditions, in which homes could be filled to capacity, with only narrow pathways winding through stacks of clutter. Some people may also collect animals and keep dozens or hundreds of pets in unsanitary conditions.
Also called compulsive hoarding and compulsive hoarding syndrome, hoarding could be a symptom of ... more
The rare cancer that occurs in the thin layer of tissue that covers the majority of the internal organs (mesothelium) is called malignant mesothelioma.
Based on what part of the mesothelium is affected, mesothelioma is divided into different types that include the following:
Mesothelioma of the tunica vaginalis:
This type occurs in the lining around the testicles.
Peritoneal mesothelioma:
This type occurs in the tissue in ... more
Pain in the area around the opening of the vagina (vulva) is a condition called vulvodynia. Sitting still for a long time or even having sex may become impossible due to the pain, burning or irritation that is related with vulvodynia. The condition could linger for months or even years.
There are many reasons explaining why experts believe vulvodynia is underreported. It may be either because of the reluctance of many women to talk about ... more
The forward rounding of the upper back is called kyphosis, round back or hunchback. Some rounding of the back is normal. But an exaggerated rounding, more than 40 to 45 degrees is referred to as kyphosis.
Kyphosis can affect everyone from children to adolescents to adults. Trauma to the spine, developmental problems, osteoporosis with compression fractures of the vertebrae, and degenerative diseases, such as arthritis of the ... more
