Abdominal pain describes any form of pain that a person can feel in the abdomen or stomach area. There are a wide number of reasons for a person to suffer abdominal pain from ulcers, wind, food poisoning or more serious… Read more...
Abdominal wall inflammation may also be called peritonitis and is basically an inflammation of the thin membrane that lines the abdominal wall. If you suspect you have peritonitis it is vital that you get medical attention immediately. Some of the… Read more...
Abrasions are small scrapes of the skin. They may also be caused grazes and there may be some open skin around the area. Usually they are non-serious and will recover on their own in a short time. However they may… Read more...
An abscess is the formation of pus under the skin and the skin usually become red a sore around the fluid. Abscesses are usually caused by the body’s reaction to a foreign body which can be bacterial, fungal, viral or… Read more...
Acidity literally means that the stomach acid is at a higher level than is normal. There are a number of symptoms that you will suffer from if you have this problem and most of them are relatively minor. The symptoms… Read more...
Acne is caused by excessive secretion of sebum from the glands. This can travel up the hair follicles and into the skin. It is usually displayed as spots, blackheads and clogged pores. Most commonly it affects people under the age… Read more...
Addiction is basically a physical or psychological dependence on either a substance or behaviour. There are a large number of things that people can get addicted to including alcohol, drugs, smoking, sex, gambling, shopping, chocolate, and many other things. What… Read more...
ADHD stands for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder which is a very good description of the condition. People who suffer from ADHD will suffer from an inability to concentrate as well as hyperactivity and impulsive actions. It is not an easy… Read more...
People often suffer from weakened adrenals when they are doing too much and over extending themselves. In ancient Chinese medicine it is believed that people have a finite amount of vital energy and when they are using too much they… Read more...
Aging is something that everyone goes through and pretty much happens at every stage of our lives. As people get older they tend to contract certain diseases as well as suffering general degeneration of the mind and body. Some of… Read more...
AIDS or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is chronic and often a fatal illness caused by HIV. It is an illness that attacks the white blood cells of the body and weakens the immune system. Many people who have HIV never develop… Read more...
Alcoholism is the term used to describe the addiction to alcohol. This is when a person is compelled to drink alcohol often to make them feel like a human being again. Many alcoholics will continue to drink regardless of the… Read more...
An allergy is basically a physical reaction to a usually harmless substance. It is basically a reaction of the immune system to a substance that is thought to be harmful. The reaction to the substance can vary significantly from itchy… Read more...
Alopecia is basically the loss of hair where the hair will either thin or stop growing altogether. This is something that men suffer from most however it can also be a significant problem for a large number of women. It… Read more...
Alzheimer’s disease is a neurological condition that usually affects people in older age. It is the most common form of dementia and usually affects people’s ability to remember, reason and plan. It is a degenerative disease and so will gradually… Read more...
Amenorrhea is a condition where a woman does not menstruate. There are 2 types, either primary or secondary. The primary version is applied to girls who have reach 16 and have yet to begin menstruating. The secondary version can occur… Read more...
Amyloidosis is a number of different conditions where a protein called amyloid builds up in the organs of the body. It can be one organ or a number of different organs in the body. The three different types of amyloidosis… Read more...
Anaemia is when a person does not have enough red blood cells when either the body does not produce enough or it destroys too many. This lack of red blood cells means that many of the tissues in the body… Read more...
Anal fissures are cracks that develop in the anal mucosa. There are a number of things that can cause this that include excessive consumption of drying food, for example something that is high in salt. It can also be caused… Read more...
Anger is an emotion that all people feel at some time or another and is often quite positive. However if the occurrence of anger is too high this could actually cause significant health problems and so it is important to… Read more...
Angina is pain in the chest where there is a decreased flow of blood to the heart. It is more common to occur at times when people are exercising or experiencing extreme stress. If angina is stable then it can… Read more...
Angioedema is the swelling of tissue just under the skin. More often if occurs around the eyes and mouth and is caused by a reaction to food or medication. It is usually quite a mild condition but in the most… Read more...
Anorexia is a condition where people have an unrealistic view of their weight. It is one of the most common eating disorders where people will starve themselves to lose weight. There usually engage in rigorous exercise with the aim of… Read more...
Anxiety describes a time when someone feels worried. This is something that all people will feel at some time or another however it becomes a problem if people feel it often and there is no obvious cause. There can be… Read more...
Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix which is caused by an obstruction or an infection. If it is left without treatment then it can rupture which could ultimately lead to death. In the early stages appendicitis can often be… Read more...
Arrhythmia is basically an irregular heart rhythm. It is often caused by damage to the heart muscle or to the nerves that regulate the heart beat. This is something that people can live with but it is important to take… Read more...
Arteriosclerosis is more commonly known as a hardening of the arteries and you may also hear it called atherosclerosis. It is usually causes by fat or cholesterol building up on the inside of the arteries. This narrows the space for… Read more...
Arthritis is a disease of the joints and comes in two specific types and they are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Details of the two different conditions are given below: // Osteoarthritis – this is the most common form and… Read more...
Asthma is a condition which causes the airway to become inflamed and restrict the flow of breath. It is often caused by irritants and attacks can be bought on by a stress event or physical exercise. There are a number… Read more...
Athletes foot is a fungal infection that occurs in the foot area. It is particularly bad on the soles and around the toes causing the skin to crack and peel away. It got its name because the fungus is more… Read more...
Atrial fibrillation is the most common form of irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia. In many cased atrial fibrillation is not life threatening however it can increase the risks of other diseases. In particular sufferers of atrial fibrillation are more likely to… Read more...
Autism is a severe mental illness that affects the functioning of the brain. It begins in childhood and some of the symptoms are problems with social contact and language. In addition learning abilities will be different with amazing abilities in… Read more...
Back pain is one of the most common problems that people suffer from. It can quite easily develop into chronic back pain and there is little that conventional medicine can do to help the problem. Back pain can occur anywhere… Read more...
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is basically the existence of a foul smell coming from the mouth. It is often caused by poor hygiene due to the build up of plaque but it could be an indication of another… Read more...
Baldness is a condition that mainly affects men. It is basically the lack of hair on the head but can be experienced in other areas of the body. It is thought to be causes by either genetics or by hormonal… Read more...
Bed sores are caused when the skin is rubbed against a bed or chair or similar surface due to extended time spent in the same position. They are basically caused by inflammation and damage to the skin due to restricted… Read more...
Bee stings are caused by the injection of the bee’s venom into the skin. In most cases this is quite a minor event with some pain that will quickly fade. It is often accompanied by redness and selling of the… Read more...
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a growth of the prostate gland that is completely non cancerous. The growth can press on the urethra and making it difficult and even painful to urinate. It is not a dangerous condition and does not… Read more...
Binge eating disorder will see the person suffering from the condition engage in periods of extreme binge eating. The difference between this condition and bulimia is that it will not be followed by a period of weight loss activities like… Read more...
Bipolar disorder which is often known as manic depression is a mental illness that affects the mood of the sufferers. It is common that the sufferers will experience extreme swings in mood from manic highs to severe depression. It is… Read more...
Bites and stings are usually caused by animals or all types and result in a breaking of the skin. Stings are a puncture of the skin and an injection of venom that can cause irritation. The level of severity of… Read more...
A bladder infection which is also called cystitis is an inflammation and infection in the bladder. This can lead to pain when urinating and also leave the sufferer feeling like they need to urinate when their bladder in empty. As… Read more...
A bladder can easily become irritated due to certain activities in our lives. Some of the things that can irritate our bladder are eating spicy foods, drinking alcohol and caffeinated drinks. It can also be caused by excessive sexual activity.… Read more...
A weak bladder is the term used to describe a condition when people find it difficult to control their bladder. Often people will go to the toilet often and will dribble when coughing or laughing. There is no known cure… Read more...
Bleeding is basically when a blood vessel is ruptured through injury. This can be caused by a number of different reasons. Most cuts or wounds will stop bleeding quite easily however if the bleeding is very strong or continues for… Read more...
Blisters are small, raised spots on the skin that contain fluid. They can be caused by a number of reasons including: // Friction – this is usually something continually rubbing the skin and they are often on the feet… Read more...
Bloating is a feeling that many people feel after eating. It feels as though you are over full and can lead people to feel sluggish and sleepy. It is not a serious condition but can be a source of discomfort… Read more...
Blood poisoning also called septicaemia is an infection in the blood caused by bacteria or fungus. It usually gets into the blood through an open wound, either a cut, burn or anything where the skin is open. Some of the… Read more...
High blood pressure also called hypertension is a serious condition that affects a proportion of the western world. It a particularly dangerous as it increases the risk of both heart disease and stroke. It is usually something that gets worse… Read more...
Low blood pressure which is also called hypotension is basically when someone’s blood pressure is lower than average. All people have a normal blood pressure level and it is more important to look at a change in the blood pressure… Read more...
Boils are infections of hair follicles and the surrounding skin and are formed as a lump on the skin. The lump is usually flesh coloured and are often painless. There are occasions when the boil can cause some pain and… Read more...
Bone spurs are basically abnormal bony growths on the end of a bone. They are usually found on the spine but van also be found at other weight bearing joints. Due to the fact these spurs do not have any… Read more...
Broken bones occur when a bone is either snapped or fractures. It is usually caused by an impact injury or a fall and can be very painful. If you suspect you have a broken bone it is important to get… Read more...
In the gut there are over 500 organisms and most of them are beneficial. However there are some that are not good for us but the gut generally keep them in control. When the body gets out of balance the… Read more...
Bronchitis is an inflammation of the air passages in the lungs and can cause breathing problems. There are two different types of bronchitis, either acute or chronic. The acute form of bronchitis is caused by and infection and can usually… Read more...
Bruises are caused by blood leaking from damaged blood vessels into the tissues of the skin. They usually result in a discolouration of the skin and the area will feel tender to the touch. Most bruises are caused by an… Read more...
Bruxism is the technical term for teeth grinding and is usually an unconscious behaviour. It occurs in the night far more than anything else but can also happen during waking hours. It involves the person clenching their jaw and then… Read more...
Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder where the sufferer has a fear of being fat and will often have an unrealistic body image. Sufferers will usually go through periods of binge eating and then follow that will forceful vomiting or… Read more...
If the skin is exposed to high heat the damage to the skin is called a burn. They can be caused by an oven, fire, electricity, chemicals or anything that comes in contact with the skin of high heat. Most… Read more...
Every joint has a small sack filled with fluid inside it which is design to lubricate and cushion the joint. Bursitis is an inflammation of this sack and often occurs in the bigger joints such as the knee. The main… Read more...
Cancer is a term that is used for literally hundreds of diseases that affect the body. It is thought to be a genetic disease and causes cells in the body to grow uncontrollably. These cells have the ability to move… Read more...
Candidiasis is an infection which is caused by a yeastlike fungus called Candida. If can affect various different parts of the body including the mouth, vagina, stomach and skin. In fact around 75% of women will suffer from thrush at… Read more...
Canker sores are small ulcers that appear inside the mouth. They can appear on the inside of the cheeks or lips of even on the tongue. They can often be painful and recur on a regular basis. It is not… Read more...
Carpel tunnel syndrome is a pinched nerve in the wrist. It can cause pain and numbness the fingers and thumb. It is usually caused by a repetitive movement and is commonly thought if as a repetitive strain injury. The name… Read more...
Cataracts are lumps of protein that collect on the lens of the eye. They cause the lens to go cloudy which means light cannot get through the lens effectively which can reduce the sight of the sufferer. Cataracts usually occur… Read more...
Celiac disease is caused when the body reacts to gluten which is found in a number of foods such as wheat. The condition can cause the small intestine to become inflamed which in turn can cause damage to the tissue… Read more...
Cellulitis is a bacterial affection that causes an inflammation of the skin. More often than not it affects the legs but it can also affect the arms, scalp and face. Some of the symptoms of the condition are: //… Read more...
Chicken pox is a condition that most people have when they are in childhood and is typified by a skin rash that is itchy and inflamed. The condition is highly contagious and can easily spread from one person to another.… Read more...
Chills describes a situation where someone feels cold often accompanied by shivering and sometimes fever. Often they are caused by an underlying condition and so it is important to get medical treatment if you are suffering from chills to determine… Read more...
Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that affects the cervix, fallopian tubes, urethra, prostate, anus, throat and eyes. The most common cause of infection is sexual intercourse. Many women will have Chlamydia and have no symptoms as all. However the problems… Read more...
Cholecystitis is basically an inflammation of the gallbladder. There are 2 different types, either acute or chronic. The acute version is usually caused by a bacterial infection where as the chronic version is caused by gallstones. // In terms… Read more...
High cholesterol also called hypercholesterolemia is basically when you have higher than healthy cholesterol levels in your body. Cholesterol is a soft, waxy, fat-like substance that naturally occurs in some foods and can build up in the arteries of your… Read more...
Chronic fatigue syndrome, also known as M.E. is a condition where someone feels excessively tired through no physical cause. Usually the sufferer will not have the energy to carry out their normal activities and rest will not make this feeling… Read more...
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is something that causes as shortness of breath in sufferers and is usually brought on by chronic bronchitis or emphysema. Both of these conditions are thought to be caused by smoking or regular exposure to… Read more...
Cirrhosis is basically caused by chronic liver disease. It is actually scarring on the live that disrupts the flow of blood and stops the liver from working effectively. This can cause serious health implications including malnutrition and immediate medical treatment… Read more...
Coetaneous drug reactions are basically a reaction to a medication you are taking. They usually result in red itchy skin or hives but other reactions can be more severe and will need medical attention. The most common drugs that people… Read more...
A cold is a relatively minor virus that most people will contract at sometime in their lives. In fact adults can have as many as 6 colds in a year. The common symptoms of a cold are: // Sneezing… Read more...
Cold sores are basically fluid filled blisters that appear on the lips or around them. They are caused by a viral infection called herpes. Usually cold sores will clear up on their own after a short period of time. However… Read more...
Colic is a condition that is associated with newborn babies. About 1 in 5 babies will develop colic and it usually means they will cry constantly. It does usually clear up on its own by the time the baby reaches… Read more...
Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the membrane inside the eyelid and on the outer part of the eye. Although it can cause discomfort it is a relatively minor condition. Having said that it is very contagious and so you should… Read more...
Constipation is a condition that relates to your bowel movements. It may mean that you have pain during a bowel movement, you are unable to pass a bowel movement after straining or you do not have any movement for 3… Read more...
A corn is an overgrowth of skin that occurs in an area where a bone sticks out. They are most common on the feet and toes but can occur anywhere. A corn is often rough and painful particularly when pressure… Read more...
Coughing is something we all do on a regular basis in order to keep the airways clear. However when it is more than just a clearing of the throat it can cause discomfort. People can get different coughs, either acute… Read more...
Cradle cap is a skin infection of the skin that usually occurs on the scalp and the face although it can spread to other parts of the body. It appears as oily yellow or brown patches on the skin and… Read more...
Crohn’s disease is an inflammation of the intestine and usually causes swelling, redness and loss of function of the intestine. It is not known what causes Crohn’s disease as no infection has been found. However many people may think it… Read more...
Croup is a condition that occurs in early childhood. It is an inflammation of the airways and lungs and usually causes a harsh cough. It can also give the child difficulty in breathing. It is usually a condition that is… Read more...
Cuts are basically an injury that breaks the skin. A minor cut will usually bleed for a short time but with a small amount of pressure this will stop. Minor cuts do not need medical attention and will heal on… Read more...
Cystic fibrosis is a chronic condition that is degenerative and usually is fatal. It affects the respiratory, digestive and reproductive systems of the sufferer with the conditions gradually getting worse. It is a genetic disease that people develop at a… Read more...
Dandruff is a common skin condition that many people suffer with. It causes the skin to shed dead skin cells more quickly and the sufferers often have oily skin which causes the cells to clump together and cause white flakes… Read more...
Dementia is a mental disorder that usually affects elderly people and is degenerative. There are a number of causes but the main ones are Alzheimer’s disease and vascular trauma. The main symptoms of the condition are: // Memory impairment… Read more...
Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses that people suffer from. It is a condition that significantly affects the mood of the sufferer and can have a great impact on their lives. The level of depression can range… Read more...
Dermatitis is a skin condition that usually causes itching and inflammation. It is not contagious and can affect people in a number of different ways. There are a large number of things that can cause dermatitis including allergies, genes and… Read more...
Diabetes is a condition that people suffer from for life. The condition means that people do not produce enough insulin or cannot use it properly. This means that sugar can build up in the body to dangerously high levels and… Read more...
Diarrhoea is a condition where there is an increase in the wateriness, volume and frequency of bowel movements. Most cases will clear up in a few days and should usually be allowed to run their course. If the condition is… Read more...
Diverticulitis is an inflammation of pouches in the intestine called diverticula. This usually occurs in the large intestine or in the colon. This can be a localised inflammation or can spread to the lining of the abdominal wall. Often there… Read more...
Dizziness is something that everyone will experience at some time or another. It is usually caused if the information from the eyes, inner ear and body to the brain is interrupted. This means there is a problem in the balance… Read more...
The duodenum is the first part of the small intestine and a duodenal ulcer is an open sore or erosion in the lining of the duodenum. Most ulcers are caused by an infection or by long term use of some… Read more...
Dyslexia is a learning disability that means people can often have difficulties with reading, writing, spelling and sometimes maths. However people with dyslexia often have above average intelligence and can display amazing creativity. Usually dyslexia is diagnosed at childhood and… Read more...
Dysmenorrhoea is the medical term used to describe the pain felt during menstruation. It usually begins 2 to 3 years after menstruation occurs and can be experienced during every cycle. It usually starts a day or two before menstruation begins… Read more...
Dyspepsia is the medical term for indigestion which occurs after eating. Usually people will suffer from pain in the upper abdomen shortly after a meal but can also get the following symptoms: Heartburn Bloating Burping quickly feeling 'full' after… Read more...
Dysphagia is a medical term for difficulty swallowing. People usually describe it as a feeling that food is sticking in the throat or chest. In fact it is actually a difficulty with the oesophagus which is the tube that carries… Read more...
An ear infection occurs when the Eustachian tubes that drain fluid and bacteria form the middle ear to the throat become blocked. It is much more common for children to suffer from ear infections. Some of the symptoms of an… Read more...
Eczema is also called atopic dermatitis is a skin disorder. It usually results in blisters on the skin and the skin becomes very dry and itchy. Eczema is a condition that can die down and flair up at different times… Read more...
Emphysema is a lung condition which is chronic and degenerative. During the condition oxygen intake is reduced due to the loss of elasticity in the lung tissue. The condition can be caused by smoking but is also caused but inhaling… Read more...
The endocardium is a membrane that covers the connective tissue in the heart valves and chambers. Endocarditis is an inflammation of the endocardium. It can lead to serious medical problems if left untreated so medical attention should always be sought.… Read more...
Endometrial cells make up the lining of the uterus and endometriosis occurs when these cells become dislodged and move outside the uterus. These cells will shed blood during menstruation and will build up and cause scar tissue. Endometriosis is one… Read more...
Epilepsy is a condition that sees a person suffering from regular seizures. A seizure occurs when your brain cells send out abnormal signals and they types may vary. The condition is considered to be epilepsy when the seizures occur more… Read more...
Fainting is medically known as syncope and results in a sudden loss of consciousness. This is usually caused by a decreased flow of blood to the head and the person will usually come round in a few minutes. The following… Read more...
Fatigue is basically mental or physical exhaustion that is caused by stress, overwork, medication or an illness. Most of us will suffer from fatigue at some point in our lives. Most people will recover quite quickly with a short period… Read more...
A fever occurs when the body’s temperature rises above 100 oF (37.8 oC). Usually a fever is a symptom of another illness like flu or a cold. It is important to not over treat a fever and to let it… Read more...
Fibrocystic breasts is something that many women will suffer around the time of menstruation. Women may suffer from tenderness, enlargement of changing lumpiness in the breasts. In most cases this is relatively minor however some women may experience great pain.… Read more...
Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition where sufferers often have pain in the muscles, tendons and joints as well as fatigue. No one knows what the causes are although there are some theories that it relates to a person’s sensitivity to… Read more...
Flatulence is a problem that everyone will suffer from at one time or another. It has a large number of different causes including weak digestion, over eating and eating the types of food that cause wind. For most people it… Read more...
Flu which is short for influenza is an infection that most people will suffer from and affects the upper respiratory tract. It has a lot of the same symptoms as a cold but is more severe. For most people flu… Read more...
Although many people believe they have food allergies in fact very few people do. A food allergy involves the immune system reacting to a harmless substance often causing rashes, vomiting, and in some cases anaphylactic shock which can be life… Read more...
Food poisoning is a condition that occurs when someone eats food that is contaminated with a toxin. Usually it results in vomiting and diarrhoea which lasts for 4-36 hours. Many people who have minor food poisoning should rest and take… Read more...
Frostbite is a condition that affects the skin and other tissues when a person is exposed to very cold conditions. It can occur surprisingly quickly and in some cases can be caused in above freezing temperatures due to a strong… Read more...
The term fungal infection covers a large number of different conditions. The usually involve fungi invading the affected part of the body and multiplying. Some of the more well known fungal infections are thrush and ringworm. // In order… Read more...
The gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ that sits just below the liver. It stores fluid called bile that is released in order to help digestion. Gallbladder disease causes the gallbladder to swell and in some cases may result in… Read more...
Gallstones are solid crystal deposits that form in the Gallbladder. The gallbladder is a small pear-shaped organ below the liver that contains bile and aids with digestion. These stones can move and become lodged in other parts of the digestive… Read more...
A gastric ulcer is a peptic ulcer in the stomach. There are open sores or erosions in the lining of the stomach. Many people believe that ulcers are caused by eating spicy food or from stress however this is not… Read more...
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining and is usually caused by an infection. People with the condition will usually suffer from burning or discomfort in the abdominal area. There are various different forms of the condition and they… Read more...
Gastroenteritis is a term that is used to describe any infection of the digestive tract but is mainly used for the stomach and intestine. Generally the symptoms that people will suffer from are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach cramps, fever and… Read more...
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition that causes the contents from the stomach or small intestine to be regurgitated back into the oesophagus. The main symptom of this condition is heartburn. If you suffer from regular heartburn then it might… Read more...
Giardia are small protozoa that can live in the small intestines. Often they can exist there without causing any symptoms however in some people they may cause nausea, diarrhoea and cramping. In addition that can also interfere with the absorption… Read more...
Glaucoma is a degenerative disease that affects the eye’s optic nerve. Most people who have it do not realise it as they have no symptoms. However if left untreated it can cause blindness whereas early treatment can prevent this. For… Read more...
A goitre is an enlarged thyroid gland which is a metabolic regulator. However the thyroid gland is very sensitive to iodine and other elements in food. Changes in these chemicals can lead to a growth in the thyroid. Although this… Read more...
Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted disease that affects the genitourinary tract. However if it is left untreated it can spread throughout the body infecting the blood stream and brain. Also it can cause blindness in unborn babies if the mother… Read more...
Gout is a form of arthritis caused by excessive uric acid in the body. This can crystallise in joints causing them to become inflamed. Often it is a hereditary condition and affects more men than women and usually occurs over… Read more...
Graves disease is an autoimmune disease that can affect the whole body. The main area it will affect is the thyroid causing it to enlarge and become overactive. Other symptoms that go along with Graves disease include increased heartbeat, muscle… Read more...
Gum disease is a condition that causes the gum around the teeth to become inflamed. If left untreated it can spread to the jaw and cause teeth loss. In the early stages of the condition you will notice the gums… Read more...
Haemophilia is a condition that means the blood does not clot. Usually it is an inherited disease and there will have been some history in the family. Having this condition can cause a number of problems including the fact that… Read more...
Haemorrhoids is a condition where the veins of the anus and rectal area become swollen causing pain and bleeding. The haemorrhoids can occur inside the entrance to the anus or just outside it. The symptoms of the condition include: … Read more...
A hangover is something that many people experience after drinking an excessive amount of alcohol. The symptoms may include headaches, nausea, muscle aches and extreme tiredness. It is thought to be caused by the ethanol in the drink and the… Read more...
Hay fever is an allergy by pollen and refers to the allergic reaction that people have to the air borne particles of pollen. Millions of people are affected by this allergy which is strongest around the spring and summer time… Read more...
Head lice are small parasitic insects that live in the hair and will bite and suck the blood. This can cause the head to be very itchy causing discomfort. Head lice are most commonly found in children and can easily… Read more...
The term headache can be used to describe any pain that a person feels in the head and neck area. There are a large number of causes of headaches including stress and tension. It can also be caused through dehydration… Read more...
Hearing loss basically covers any impairment in a person’s ability to hear sound. This can vary quite significantly from complete hearing loss to a minor loss in the higher pitched sounds. It is usually something associated with older age however… Read more...
A heart attack which is technically known as a myocardial infarction is caused when an artery to the heart gets blocked. This causes of the heart muscle cells in that area. The typical symptoms of a heart attack are: … Read more...
The heart is a large organ and is responsible for pumping blood around the body. A person is considered to have heart disease if there is a narrowing or blockage in the arteries that provide blood to the heart. If… Read more...
Heart palpitations are basically an abnormal beating rhythm of the heart. There are a large number of things that can cause them including stress, anxiety, stimulants, as well as serious heart problems. If you have any abnormal heart beating you… Read more...
Heartburn is a very common condition and a large number of people will suffer from it at some point or another. People suffering from heartburn will experience a burning sensation in the chest and this can spread to the neck,… Read more...
Heat exhaustion is a condition that can occur when the body gets too hot. Normally when a person is hot the body will sweat to reduce the body’s temperature. However if the body is on hot temperatures for a long… Read more...
Heat stroke is what can occur if heat exhaustion goes untreated. Heat exhaustion is caused when the body is exposed to high temperature for a long time and not enough fluids are taken on. This stops the body from being… Read more...
Hepatitis is a viral infection that causes an inflammation of the liver. There are various different types that affect people in different ways and have different symptoms and consequences. The most common types that people suffer from are hepatitis A,… Read more...
Herpes is a condition that affects the genital area as well as the mouth area. Herpes in the mouth area is more commonly known as cold sores and more information can be found there. The genital type is a sexually… Read more...
A hiatus hernia is a condition where the stomach abnormally protrudes up into the chest cavity through the diaphragm. There are a large number of things that can cause a hernia and they include obesity, pregnancy, age or some surgery.… Read more...
Hiccups is something that most of us have suffered from at some time or another. They are literally an involuntary contraction of the diaphragm followed by the closing of the throat. The cause of hiccups is as yet unknown but… Read more...
High blood pressure is a condition you have when your blood pressure is raised above its normal level. Every person will have a normal blood pressure that is individual to them and high blood pressure occurs when it is above… Read more...
Cholesterol is something your body makes naturally and is a soft, waxy, fat like substance. If there is too much cholesterol in your body then it can begin to build up on your arteries and slow the flow of blood.… Read more...
Hirsutism is a technical term for a condition that sees thick, dark coarse hairs growing on the face of a woman. Usually this is because the women suffering have high levels of male hormones that increases the hair growth and… Read more...
Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection that is usually very mild and people will not suffer any symptoms. In about 5% of cases it will result in a sudden flu-like condition and in even less cases can cause more severe symptoms… Read more...
HIV is a condition caused human immunodeficiency virus is an infection that can lead to AIDS which is life threatening. It is a condition that weakens the immune system and so means sufferers will be more likely to get colds… Read more...
Hives is a term used to describe a specific allergic reaction. The immune system will cause the skin to produce hives which are area that become red, swell and it itchy. People can suffer from hives from a reaction to… Read more...
Hookworm is a condition that occurs when the larvae of roundworm penetrates the skin. These can then make their way into the lungs and small intestine where they mature and lat more eggs. This is a condition that tends to… Read more...
Hot flushes is something may people suffer from. In particular women who are going through the menopause often have them. However both men can suffer from them as well as they can also be experienced by people after surgery or… Read more...
Hyperacidity is a condition that sees a person having excess acid in the stomach. This can cause the person to suffer from heartburn as well as pain in the upper abdominal area. It is not always known what causes hyperacidity… Read more...
Hyperactivity is something that most children will suffer from at some time or another and it only becomes a problem if the occurrences are high. If this is the case then it may indicate a condition such as ADHD and… Read more...
Hypercholesterolemia is the technical name for high cholesterol and more information on the condition can be found on the relevant page. // Read more...
Hyperkalemia is a medical term that means a person has too much potassium in their body. The potassium levels in the body as regulated by the kidneys and so this is commonly caused by kidney disease. It can also be… Read more...
The parathyroid glands are found in the neck and the hormone they secrete helps to regulate the calcium and phosphorus in the body. Hyperparathyroidism is a condition where too much of this hormone is produced and so calcium may rise… Read more...
Hypertension is the medical term used to describe high blood pressure. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that may be beneficial them please visit the high blood pressure page. // Read more...
The thyroid gland is found in the front of the neck and the hormone it produces regulates the metabolism. Hyperthyroidism is a condition where too much of the thyroid hormone is produced and the symptoms associated with the condition are:… Read more...
Hypochondria is a condition where people are afraid of getting a serious illness. Often they will misinterpret normal feelings within the body for symptoms of a serious condition. Although many people may think they have a condition at some time… Read more...
Hypoglycaemia is a condition where the blood sugar in the body drops too low. This can be caused by a number of things such as poor diet, stress, illnesses and diabetes. The main symptoms of the condition include: // … Read more...
Hypoparathyroidism is a condition where the parathyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. They parathyroid hormone regulars the calcium and phosphorus in the body and people with this condition will have too much phosphorus and not enough calcium. The symptoms… Read more...
Hypothermia is a condition that people can suffer from if they subjected to cold temperatures for as long period of time. This will cause the body temperature to drop and the circulatory, respiratory and nervous systems to slow down. If… Read more...
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. These hormones are used to regulate the metabolism. This can cause the body to slow down and if left untreated can cause serious health problems. Some if… Read more...
Hysteria is a condition that is thought to show mental instability. There are two types of the condition, excessive and defiant. People who have the excessive type may suffer from anxiety, great restlessness, loud outbursts, and sobbing. If you have… Read more...
Ichthyosis is a genetic condition that affects the skin. Usually people who have the condition will suffer from rough and dry skin. The condition can vary from a very mild to a severe condition that can affect a large part… Read more...
Impetigo is a skin infection that is caused by bacteria and is highly infectious. It is more likely to affect children and the elderly but can affect anyone. Things like heat, humidity and poor hygiene can contribute to impetigo. People… Read more...
Impotence is a condition where a man finds it difficult to get an erection or to maintain one for long enough to have sexual intercourse. The condition may also be known as erectile dysfunction. There are a number of things… Read more...
Incontinence is a condition that means someone is unable to control urination. It affects a large number of people all over the world and is more common in elderly people. If someone has incontinence it is usually classified into one… Read more...
Indigestion is a more common term for dyspepsia. For more information on the condition and on alternative therapies that can help please visit our dyspepsia page. // Read more...
Infertility is the term used to describe a couple’s inability to conceive a child. The problem can be caused by either the man’s sperm or the woman’s ability to produce eggs. There are also other problems that can cause infertility.… Read more...
Inflammatory bowel disease is a condition where the sufferer will experience inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the large intestine and rectum. At this stage it is not known what is caused it but there is a belief it… Read more...
Influenza is the long version of the condition commonly known as flu. For more information on influenza and alternative therapies that can help please visit our Flu page. // Read more...
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail digs into the skin at the edge of the nail. People who suffer from this will usual feel pain around the area and it will look red and may have… Read more...
There are a large number of insects that we can get bites and stings from including bees, wasps, spiders and mosquitoes. Most people will have a very minor reaction however if you have an allergic reaction this can be quite… Read more...
Insomnia is a term that describes an inability to get enough sleep. It can take on several forms and they are: An inability to get asleep Waking too early Waking several times throughout the night. // Insomnia can… Read more...
Insulin resistance is a condition where cells in the body fail to take up and use glucose for energy and metabolism. Usually there are no symptoms that go along with this condition however it can develop in to diabetes type… Read more...
Intestinal obstruction is a condition where the intestine is blocked preventing matter from passing through it. The condition can be mechanical which means it is blocked by foreign bodies, faecal matter or scar tissue. The condition can also be non-mechanical… Read more...
Intestinal parasites are basically parasites that get in the body and live in the intestine. These may take the form of worms that do not multiply in the body or protozoa which start as one cell and then multiply. Some… Read more...
A knotted intestine is a condition where the intestines collapse in on themselves. People with this condition will often suffer from cramps and pain in the abdominal area. This is a very serious condition and it is vital to get… Read more...
Irritable bowel syndrome is a condition that sees the muscles in the intestines contract faster or slower than normal. There are a number of causes of IBS and can occur at any age. It is believed that stress is a… Read more...
Jaundice is a condition that is caused by liver disease. As a result of the disease there is excessive bile in the body and this can cause the skin and the whites of the eyes to be discoloured to yellow.… Read more...
A tense jaw is something that many people suffer from if they have chronic tooth or gum infections. In addition people who are overworked, stressed or grind their teeth in the night could experience a tense jaw. // There… Read more...
Jet lag is a condition that many of us suffer from at some time or another. It is typified by insomnia, fatigue and irritability and is caused by a person changing time zones usually through air travel. This is not… Read more...
Jock Itch is a common term for a fungus that grows in the moist, warm area of the groin. The reason for developing the condition is not known but it appear that some people are more prone that others. The… Read more...
The term kidney infection covers a wide range of different condition that can be caused by bacteria, fungus or a virus. The symptoms and treatment will vary significantly depending on the condition you have and it is important to visit… Read more...
Kidney stones are a condition where minerals in the body build up and form crystals on the urinary tract. They can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball. Kidney stones can cause… Read more...
Knee pain is a term that is used to describe any pain, aching or burning in the knee joint. The cause can vary significantly from a disease to injury, infection and various other things. Many people who regularly exercise will… Read more...
Labour and delivery is basically the process of childbirth. This is completely natural however most women will experience significant pain during labour. It is important to have a midwife and sometime a doctor in attendance during labour however there are… Read more...
After the birth of a child a woman’s body will produce compounds called galactagogues which stimulates the flow of milk. In some women there may be an inadequate amount of this compound and this can lead to an insufficient flow… Read more...
Laryngitis is a condition where the larynx which is another name for the voice box becomes swollen and sore. It can be caused by a number of viruses or bacterial infections that get into the larynx. It is usually not… Read more...
Learning disabilities is a wide area that covers a large number of different conditions. A person with a learning disability may have general problems of difficult with a specific area like reading or maths. If you think this may be… Read more...
Liver disease is also called cirrhosis of the liver. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that can help please visit our cirrhosis page. // Read more...
Low back pain is exactly as it sounds pain in the lower back. This can affect the flexibility, stability and strength of the spine. This can cause pain, discomfort and stiffness for the sufferer. The cause of the condition can… Read more...
Low blood sugar is the common way to describe hypoglycaemia. For more information on the condition and ways in which you can treat it please visit our hypoglycaemia page. // Read more...
Lumbago is a term used to describe pain in the lower back. This particular condition is caused by injury or stagnation of blood due to inactivity. For more information on the topic and ways to treat it please visit out… Read more...
Lungs usually become congested when there has been an excessive mucus production. This could have been caused by a previous infection like bronchitis or a cold. This excessive production can lead to coughing and be unpleasant for the sufferer. … Read more...
Lupus is a disease of the autoimmune system that causes the body to attack its healthy cells and tissues. This can cause inflammation and damage to the joints, skin, kidneys, heart, lungs, blood vessels, or the brain. The cause of… Read more...
Lyme disease is an illness carried in ticks. It is particularly prevalent in the United States but there have been rising cases in Europe and Asia. It is carried by ticks that live on deer and the symptoms are: … Read more...
Macular degeneration is a disease of the eye that is degenerative. It is completely painless but gradually results in a deterioration of sight. A very small percentage will result in complete sight loss but for most people it causes blurred… Read more...
Mastitis is a condition that causes an inflammation of the breasts. It can cause pain and discomfort in the breasts and is thought to be caused by a bacterial infection. // If you visit the doctor they may be… Read more...
Measles is a viral infection that is highly contagious. In most cases it will clear up on its own with very few lasting effects. However it can cause serious side effects of even death in young children. Over recent years… Read more...
Memory loss is something that we all suffer from at some time or another however in some cases it can result in total memory loss. There are a number of different reasons that people can suffer from memory loss with… Read more...
Meningitis is an inflammation of the membranes around the brain and spinal cord caused by either a virus or bacterial infection. If you have meningitis it is important to get medical attention to determine the cause. If it is caused… Read more...
The menopause is something that every woman goes through at some time or another. The average age that a woman will go through the menopause is 51. At this time the body changes so that the woman stops having periods… Read more...
Menstrual cramps are also known as dysmenorrhoea. If you would like more information on the condition and ways in which alternative therapies could benefit you please visit our dysmenorrhoea page. // Read more...
Amenorrhoea is the medical name for a condition where a woman fails to menstruate for at least 3 months on a row. If you would like more information on the condition and alternative therapies that could help them visit our… Read more...
Metrorrhagia is a term used to describe bleeding in between periods. Many women will suffer a small amount of spotting at some point or another however if the bleeding occurs for more than one cycle or is heavy you should… Read more...
A migraine is a severe headache that occurs recurrently. Usually there are other symptoms that go along with a migraine including disturbed vision. There are a large number of things that can cause migraines including allergic reactions, certain food and… Read more...
Mononucleosis which is often caused The Kissing Disease is a highly infections viral infection. It is easily transmitted through saliva and so kissing can transfer it hence the name. The condition affects people between the ages of 15-19 more than… Read more...
Morning sickness is the term given to the sickness a woman may feel in the first few months of pregnancy. Despite the name of the condition the nausea and vomiting may occur at any time during the day. Not all… Read more...
Motion sickness is something people will experience when moving. It can be suffered on a boat, train, car, fairground ride or anything that moves. For the majority of people it is a relatively minor condition that is a nuisance but… Read more...
Mouth sores are small white or clear lumps that you get on the inside of the mouth or tongue. Often they can cause pain and discomfort but will usually clear up on their own after a week or so. People… Read more...
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the nervous system that affects the communication between the brain and other parts of the body. MS is a condition that we do not understand a lot about at the moment. For example… Read more...
Mumps is a virus that causes painful swelling of the parotid glands. It is a highly contagious disease and is more likely to be seen in children. Usually the illness will clear up on its own with no lasting effects… Read more...
Muscle cramps are an uncontrollable contraction of a particular muscle. It is most commonly felt in the legs and can easily be stopped through stretching the muscle and causing a relaxation. The main cause of the condition is dehydration and… Read more...
Muscular dystrophy is a term used to describe a group of conditions that are genetic. Muscular dystrophy usually involves weakness and degeneration of the muscles. This can make it hard to function and do everyday activities over time. There is… Read more...
Myocardial infarction is the technical term for a heart attack. If you would like more information on the condition and how alternative therapies can be used to support your recovery please visit our heart attack page. // Read more...
Myopia is the medical term for nearsightedness of short-sightedness. This means that people will see objects very clearly when they are close to them but objects in the distance will appear blurry. // The usual treatment for this condition… Read more...
Narcolepsy is a condition that sees people falling asleep uncontrollably at any time during the day. These episodes can last any time from a few seconds to a few hours. Often people are unaware that they have the condition and… Read more...
Nausea is the feeling that you are going to vomit. It may be an underlying feeling or so strong that you do actually vomit. There are a large number of things that can cause a person to feel nausea including… Read more...
Neck pain is a general term to describe any pain felt in the neck and surrounding area. The cause of the pain will vary from person to person as will the type of pain felt. Many people who work on… Read more...
Nephritis is a general term that is used to describe an inflammation of the kidney. There can be any cause for this condition and it does not refer to a specific illness. As there are a large number of causes… Read more...
Nervous exhaustion is a condition where a person effectively has a collapse and a complete loss of energy. It can be caused by a number of things including extreme stress, overwork as well as over stimulation. It is important to… Read more...
The feeling of being nervous is something we can all suffer from time to time. However if you feel nervous a lot of the time then this may start to become a problem. Nervousness is usually less intense than anxiety… Read more...
Neuralgia is a term used to describe a number of different conditions that affect a nerve in the body. Often neuralgia will occur after an injury but they can also appear suddenly for no known reason. People will suffer a… Read more...
Neuropathy is a condition where there has been damage to the nerves. It usually means that the nerves are not carrying information from the brain in the way you would expect them to. It usually means that muscle control is… Read more...
Night blindness is an illness that is progressive and degenerative. The condition causes damage to the retina of the eye and many people experience reduced sight at night time and also a reduction in their peripheral vision. It is often… Read more...
Nightmare is another name for a bad dream. These are dreams that can cause feelings like anxiety, distress or terror. Many of us will suffer from them occasionally and this will not be a problem whereas others may suffer from… Read more...
Nose bleeds are something that many people suffer from occasionally, for others it is more often. The main causes of nose bleeds are heat, dry air, trauma, medications or certain medical conditions. If you have a nose bleed then in… Read more...
Obesity is the term used to describe someone who is excessively overweight. This is usually determined by working out a person’s body mass index (BMI). It is thought that someone with a BMI of over 30 is usually considered obese.… Read more...
There are a large number of obsessive compulsive disorders but they are all typified by the same feelings. Usually the sufferer will have an extreme anxiety unless they carry out a specific action and it can be unbearable and terrifying… Read more...
Oedema is a swelling which is caused by fluid building up in the spaces between the body’s cells. It is important to say that oedema is a symptom and not a condition and if it continues medical advice should be… Read more...
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis that people suffer from. The condition causes the cartilage between the bones which can cause pain and restrict movement. This tends to be a condition associated with older age and will affect… Read more...
Ostepmyelitis is a bone infection that is usually caused by bacteria. It tends to affect more men than women and is more prevalent in children and people over 50. The main symptoms of the condition are: Intense pain and… Read more...
Osteoporosis is a degenerative that causes a weakening of the bones. This can lead to a large number of fractures from doing everyday activities. This is a condition with mostly affects older people and tends to affect more women than… Read more...
Otitis media is the medical term used to describe and ear infection of the middle ear. If you would like more information on this condition and alternative therapies you can use to treat it please visit our ear infection page.… Read more...
Ovarian cysts are fluid filled sacs that form in or on the ovaries. Many women will have ovarian cysts from time to time and this is perfectly natural. However if they start to grow and cause pain it can be… Read more...
Pain is something we all experience from time to time. The way in which we experience pain and the severity of it will differ from person to person. It will also depend on what is causing the pain as to… Read more...
Palpitations is short for heart palpitations. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that could help you please visit our heart palpitations page. // Read more...
The pancreas is an organ in the body that produces a number of hormones that help digestion including insulin which regulates the sugar in the blood. Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas. The condition can be either acute of… Read more...
Parasitic infections can take various different forms. For more information on the conditions and ways in which alternative therapies can help please visit our histoplasmosis, intestinal parasites and worms pages. // Read more...
An overactive parathyroid is called hyperparathyroidism. For more information on the condition and to find out about how alternative therapies can help please visit our hyperparathyroidism page. // Read more...
An underactive parathyroid is called hypoparathyroidism. For more information on the condition and to find out about how alternative therapies can help please visit our hypoparathyroidism page. // Read more...
Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disease that affects the body’s nervous system. It causes nerve cells in the brain that control movement for die. The condition affects men and women equally and normally affects people over 60. The cause of… Read more...
Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a term used to describe any infection in a woman’s pelvic organs. They are usually caused by sexually transmitted diseases including Chlamydia. It is important to seek treatment as soon as possible as if it… Read more...
A peptic ulcer is an open sore or erosion in the lining of the duodenum of the stomach. These are called duodenal ulcers and gastric ulcers respectively. There are a number of therapies that can be beneficial in treating peptic… Read more...
Perennial allergic rhinitis is an allergy to air bourn particles. Unlike hay fever this condition will last all year round and is not affected by the seasons. The main causes of the condition are skin flakes, dust, house mites and… Read more...
The pericardium is a sac that surrounds the heart and pericarditis is a swelling and inflammation of this sac. This condition can come on suddenly, the acute version or be a long term condition, the chronic version. The acute version… Read more...
Periodontal disease is another name for gum disease. If you would like more information on the condition and alternative therapies that could be useful please visit our gum disease page. // Read more...
Peritonitis is the medical term for an abdominal wall inflammation. If you would like more information on this condition and alternative therapies that could be a help then please visit our abdominal wall inflammation page. // Read more...
Pertussis is the medical term for whooping cough. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that can be used to help the condition please visit our whooping cough page. // Read more...
Pharyngitis is an inflammation in the back of the throat usually caused by a virus or bacteria. It can often cause sore throats and people can have difficulty swallowing. It is often accompanied by a fever as well as a… Read more...
Phlebitis which is also known as thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of a vein. It can often cause blood clots to form inside the vein where the inflammation occurs. There are a number of causes to the condition and people who… Read more...
A phobia is an irrational fear of a harmless object, situation or event. Although people can be scared of something a phobia is much stronger than that and people can feel great anxiety, fear and have physical symptoms like panic… Read more...
Photodermatitis is an abnormal reaction to ultraviolet light which includes sunlight. The reaction can cause rashes and large blisters on the skin and can happen suddenly or be an ongoing condition. The severity will vary from person to person but… Read more...
Pimples are basically spots caused by an inflammation in the skin’s sebaceous glands. Many people will suffer from the odd spot every now and again, particularly in puberty. If you have a large number occurring often the condition may be… Read more...
Pink eye is a phrase that is used for conjunctivitis. If you would like to know more about the condition and about alternative therapies that can help treat it please visit our conjunctivitis page. // Read more...
The pleura is a membrane that surrounds the lungs and pleurisy is a condition where this membrane becomes inflamed. The main symptom associated with the condition is sharp pains in the chest. There are a number of different causes of… Read more...
PMS is short for premenstrual tension which is something a large number of women suffer around the time of their period. They will normally suffer a number of physical and emotional symptoms that occur every month around 2-14 days before… Read more...
Pneumonia is a lung infection and can be caused by a virus, bacteria, fungus or anything else that can cause an infection. Many people will recover from pneumonia however in children, older people and those with pre-existing conditions pneumonia can… Read more...
Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that is brought on by a traumatic event. Often it is associated with war veterans but can be experienced after a car accident, rape or similar traumatic events. The sufferer will usually… Read more...
Hyperkalemia is the medical term for having excess potassium in the blood. If you would like more information on this condition and therapies that could be beneficial please visit our hyperkalemia page. // Read more...
Preeclampsia is a dangerous condition that occurs in pregnant women after they go past the 20th week. It involves the woman having very high blood pressure, fluid retention and a high level of protein in their urine. This is a… Read more...
Pregnancy is the time where a woman carries a baby from conception to birth. Most pregnancies will go through with little complications however there are a number of symptoms you may have. Alternative remedies can help with things like morning… Read more...
Proctitis is an inflammation of the lining of the rectum. The condition can cause pain bleeding and discharge from the rectum. It is largely caused by infections like herpes and gonorrhoea however it can be caused by other things. … Read more...
A prostate enlargement is a condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia. This is a noncancerous growth of the prostate gland that can make urination difficult. Although no one knows the exact cause of this condition it is thought to be related… Read more...
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes raised, red areas on the skin that are often covered with silvery scales. This is not a contagious condition and can come and go at different times. It occurs most often on the… Read more...
Pulmonary hypertension is a rare condition that causes high blood pressure in the arteries around the lungs. It is usually caused be a pre-existing condition and usually affects women between the ages of 30 and 50. The main symptoms of… Read more...
Pulmonary oedema is a condition that sees increase pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs and can cause them to fill up with fluid. It is often caused by an existing condition like heart disease, asthma and pneumonia. Some… Read more...
Pyloric stenosis is a condition that affects babies and young children. It is a condition that sees the lower part of the stomach to narrow which can cause digestive problems. The condition may be found at birth of develop over… Read more...
Radiation damage is something that can occur after someone has had radiation therapy. The damage can lead to a number of other health conditions including cancer and birth defects. If the damage is acute then a person will normally feel… Read more...
Rash is a generally used term for redness or inflammation of the skin. A rash may appear in a small area or all over the body. Often a rash is a symptom of something else, for example it could be… Read more...
Rectal inflammation is also called proctitis. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that can help please visit our proctitis page. // Read more...
Reactive arthritis is a form of arthritis that is caused when a bacterial infection causes the joints to become inflamed. Reiter Syndrome is a condition that includes reactive arthritis and an inflammation in the eyes and urinary tracts. At this… Read more...
A repetitive strain injury is something that occurs from doing the same thing over and over again. Many people can get it from a variety of different activities, for example doing a lot of typing can lead to an RSI… Read more...
The term respiratory infection covers a large number of different conditions with the main ones being bronchitis and colds. For more information on these conditions and alternative therapies that could be useful please visit the relevant pages. // Read more...
Restless leg syndrome is a condition where people have an irresistible urge to move their leg. It is mostly experienced in times of rest such as going to sleep and the sufferer will feel and ache of strange feeling that… Read more...
Rheumatism is a general term that is used to describe any chronic inflammation in the muscles or joints. This can include a number of other conditions including gout and arthritis. In addition the inflammation can be caused by a poor… Read more...
Rheumatoid arthritis is one form of arthritis that is a long term condition causing inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. The condition will often destroy the cartilage in the joints causing the bones to rub against each other. There… Read more...
Rosacea is a skin condition that particularly affects the face. It can cause redness as well as hard pimples and visible spider like veins. The condition is something that normally begins in people over the age of 30. There is… Read more...
Roseola is an illness that mostly affects children under the age of 4. It is caused by the human herpes virus. The main symptoms are a high fever and a rash and although there can sometimes be complications due to… Read more...
Rubella is also called German measles and is a highly contagious condition. The main symptoms are a rash that lasts for around 3 days as well as a low fever and swollen glands. If a pregnant woman contracts the condition… Read more...
Sarcoidosis is a condition that causes small bead-like patches of inflamed cells usually in the lungs. This can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight loss and a shortness of breath. However as many people have little or no symptoms it can… Read more...
Scabies is a parasitic infection that is caused by the parasites burrowing into the skin and laying their eggs there. The condition causes slightly raised grey lines on the skin and is extremely itchy. Scabies can be passed from person… Read more...
Scarlet fever is a bacterial infection that can easily be transferred from person to person through the air and physical contact. It most commonly affects children between four and eight. The most common symptoms of the condition are a sore… Read more...
Schizophrenia is a psychotic illness that affects the emotions and behaviours of the person suffering from it. The actual name comes from two Greek words meaning Split Mind. The condition is very debilitating and can prevent people from being to… Read more...
The sciatic nerve funs from the lower spine all the way down to the foot. Sciatica is pain of discomfort of this sciatic nerve. The main cause is pressure on the nerve and can result in lower back pain. In… Read more...
Scleroderma is a disease that affects the connective tissue of the body. It causes scar tissue to build up in the skin and organs. People could have a localised condition that usually only affects the skin on the hands and… Read more...
Seasickness is a form of motion sickness caused by travelling on boats and other forms of travel on water. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies to help please visit our motion sickness page. // Read more...
For more information on this condition and the therapies that could be useful in treatment please visit our dementia page. // Read more...
Septicemia is a medical term for bold poisoning. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that could be useful please visit our blood poisoning page. // Read more...
Serum is the clear fluid part of the brain and serum sickness is very much like an allergic reaction to a medication or antiserum. It is thought that the body mistakes the medication as harmful and this causes the immune… Read more...
A sexually transmitted disease or STD is any disease that can be transferred from person to person through sexual intercourse. The main ones that you come across are Chlamydia, herpes, genital warts, gonorrhoea, HIV and syphilis. For more information on… Read more...
Shin splints is a condition that causes inflammation of tissues in the lower leg. This is usually causes by an imbalance in the muscles in the lower leg. It usually results in pain which is made worse through exercise and… Read more...
Shingles is a condition that is caused by the same virus as chickenpox. If a person has chickenpox then the virus can go into the nerves cells and remain dormant then at some stage develop into shingles. Usually the condition… Read more...
There are two different types of shock, psychological shock and physiological shock. There are quite different and the treatment required will be very different. Psychological shock is something anyone can suffer from after and traumatic or distressing event, it is… Read more...
A sinus headache is one that is caused by blockages in the sinus pathways. Usually it causes pain the in the front of the head and this is made words by movement and bending forward. It can also be accompanied… Read more...
Sinusitis is a condition that causes the sinuses to become inflamed. It is caused by an infection that gets into the sinuses and this can be viral, bacterial or fungal. There are a number of things that can cause it… Read more...
The term skin disorders covers a wide range of different conditions including dermatitis, eczema, erythema and photodermatitis. It can also include rashes and reactions to drugs called serum sickness. For more information on each of these conditions and the alternative… Read more...
A skin infection is also called cellulitis. For more information on this condition and alternative remedies that can be used to treat it or support conventional medicine please visit our cellulitis page. // Read more...
Sleep apnoea is a condition where people stop breathing for a short time during their sleep. Normally people do not wake up completely however in the morning it will feel as though you have not slept at all. There are… Read more...
Sleeplessness is another way to describe the condition insomnia. For more information on this condition and to find out about alternative therapies that could help in treatment please visit our insomnia page. // Read more...
Smoking is not so much a condition but an addiction to tobacco. It is very difficult to give up smoking due the habitual nature of smoking. There are a number of over the counter remedies that you can get as… Read more...
Snoring is a condition that can affect the people that sleep in the vicinity of the snorer more than the sufferer. The noise produced is caused by vibrations of the loose tissue in the upper airway. In most cases it… Read more...
A sore throat is a common term for the medical condition called pharyngitis. If you would like more information on the condition and therapies that could be good for treatment then please visit our pharyngitis page. // Read more...
The term spasm is used to describe a muscle spasm or cramp that many people can suffer from. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that could be useful please visit our muscle cramps page. // Read more...
Spastic colon is another term that can be used for irritable bowel syndrome. For more information on this condition and details of the alternative therapies that could be beneficial please visit our irritable bowel syndrome page. // Read more...
There are a large number of conditions that can cause an enlarged spleen including cirrhosis of the liver and infections like hepatitis. For more information on these conditions please visit the relevant pages. An enlarged spleen should be treated by… Read more...
Splinters are small slivers of wood that get into the skin. This is not a serious condition but it is important to remove the splinters as if left they can either work their way deeper into the body or they… Read more...
A sprain is an injury that can be caused from any physical activity but is usually caused through sport or exercise. It is effectively an injury to the ligament in a joint and more often occurs in the ankle, knee,… Read more...
A Staph infection is the short name given to a staphylococcal infection. Normally the staph organisms get in through an open wound and causes abscesses on the skin. There are a number of different staph organisms and that can all… Read more...
Stomach inflammation is a common way of describing gastritis. For more information on this condition and alternative therapies that can help please visit our gastritis page. // Read more...
A stomach ulcer is another name for a gastric ulcer. For more information on this condition and alternative therapies that can help please visit our gastric ulcer page. // Read more...
Stomach weakness is a condition where the stomach becomes irritated and does not digest food properly. It is thought to be a stress related condition although in some cases it might be hereditary. The main symptoms are nausea and a… Read more...
Stomach-ache is a common name for the medical condition dyspepsia. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that could help please visit our dyspepsia page. // Read more...
Strep throat is an infection caused by a bacteria. It is highly contagious and can be transferred from person to person through close contact. It is far more likely to appear in children but can affect anyone of any age.… Read more...
Most people feel stress at some time or another however some people will feel it for a lot longer and this can cause significant problems. The way are lives are mean that there are a lot of pressures on us… Read more...
A stroke is something that occurs when the blood supply to the brain is interrupted. This can be caused by a blood clot or a blood vessel bursting. The reduction in oxygen and nutrients to the brain can cause a… Read more...
A stye is basically a small abscess that occurs in a hair follicle of an eyelash. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection that gets into the sebaceous gland. Having a stye can be an indication that a person… Read more...
Sunburn is a common term for the condition photodermatitis. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that can help please visit our photodermatitis page. // Read more...
Swallowing difficulty is also called dysphagia. For more information on this condition and alternative therapies that can help treat it then please visit our dysphagia page. // Read more...
Syncope is a technical term for fainting. If you would like more information on this condition and alternative therapies that can be of help then please visit our fainting page. // Read more...
Syphilis is largely thought of as a sexually transmitted disease which is the case for over 90% of cases of the condition. The symptoms vary from person to person but usually begin with chancres on the skin. These are blisters… Read more...
Systemic lupus erythematosus is another name for Lupus. If you would like more information on this condition and alternative therapies that could be of help then please visit our lupus page. // Read more...
When we say teething we are normally referring to infants getting their first set of teeth. As the teeth need to push through the gums this can be very painful and children will often cry a lot during this time.… Read more...
Temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ) is a condition caused by pressure on the facial nerve due to muscle tension and bone abnormalities around the joints in the jaw. It usually causes pain the face and head and can often result in… Read more...
Tendons connect muscles to bones and tendinitis is a condition where the tendon fibres tears and the tendons become inflamed. The most common cause of the condition is overuse of a particular tendon. It is not normally called by an… Read more...
A tension headache is usually caused by stress and can be treated as any other form of headache. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that can help please visit our headache page. // Read more...
Thrush is a yeast-like fungal infection of the vagina. Symptoms include itching and a thick white vaginal discharge. There are a number of things that can cause thrush including diet, wearing tight clothes and using perfumed bubble bath among other… Read more...
Hyperthyroidism is the term used for an overactive thyroid. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that could help please visit our hyperthyroidism page. // Read more...
Hypothyroidism is the term used to describe an underactive thyroid. For more information on the condition and alternative therapies that could be useful please visit our hypothyroidism page. // Read more...
Tinnitus is the technical name for ringing in the ears. It can be caused by a number of things like being exposed to loud noises for an extended period of time. It can also be causes by a build up… Read more...
Toothache is basically pain or discomfort in a particular tooth. It can be caused by a large number of different things including a cavity, inflammation, abscess and gum disease to name just a few. The pain can make it very… Read more...
Trichomonas is a protozoa that normally lives within the vagina. Sometimes it can overgrow causing itching and a thick, white, foul smelling discharge. Due to the similarities in the conditions it can often be confused with thrush. The main difference… Read more...
Tuberculosis or TB is a very serious condition that can be fatal. It is highly contagious and can be past from person to person through air borne particles. The main symptoms of the condition are a cough and shortness of… Read more...
An ulcer can also be called a peptic ulcer. These come in to forms a duodenal ulcer and a gastric ulcer. For more information on these conditions and alternative therapies that can help please visit the relevant pages. // Read more...
For more information on urinary incontinence and alternative therapies that could help please visit our incontinence page. // Read more...
The urinary passage consists or two parts, the ureter which takes urine from the kidney to the bladder and the urethra which removes the urine from the bladder. It is possible for these passages to become inflamed due to a… Read more...
Some people may feel an urgency to urinate on a very frequent basis. Often the amount of urine passed each time is very little even thought the feeling is strong. This can be caused by a number of things including… Read more...
Urine retention is a condition where people hold urine back in their kidney and so delaying urination. This is something that people can suffer from after drinking alcohol which is a short term condition and will clear up on its… Read more...
Uterine cysts are small benign tumours that occur in the lining of the uterus. The actual cause of these cysts is not known although larger ones are found in women taking the contraceptive pill and those that are pregnant. This… Read more...
Uterine fibroids are benign growths of muscle in the uterus lining. A large proportion of women have them and probably a lot of women have then and they are undetected. The main symptoms of the condition are heavy menstrual bleeding… Read more...
Vaginal dryness is something that usually affects women after they have done through the menopause. This is thought to be caused by the reduced levels of the hormone oestrogen and progesterone in the body. // To treat the condition… Read more...
Vaginitis is a condition that causes an inflammation of the vagina and vulva. It is usually caused by an infection that is either a bacteria, fungus or parasite. The main symptoms are vaginal discharge, irritation, itching and a burning sensation.… Read more...
Varicose veins are veins that show on the on the skin after they become diluted and elongated. There are a number of things that can cause them including lifestyle and hormones. In addition there seems to be a trend in… Read more...
Vertigo is a form of dizziness that people can suffer from. For more information on the condition and therapies that can be helpful please visit our dizziness page. // Read more...
Vitiligo which is also called leukoderma is a depigmentation of the skin. It causes the skin to lighten and whiten as the pigmentation is removed. The exact cause is not known but it is thought to be an autoimmune disorder.… Read more...
The action of vomiting is the uncontrollable removal of the stomach contents through the mouth. This is something that almost everyone has experienced at some time or another. There are a large number of causes including illness, reaction to medication… Read more...
Warts are small benign growths that appear in the skin. They are caused by a viral infection that gets in to the skin or mucus membrane. They can be transferred from person to person through physical contact but can often… Read more...
Water retention is a term that can be used to describe the conditions Oedema and urine retention. For information on these conditions and the alternative therapies that could be useful please visit the relevant page. // Read more...
Whooping cough which is also called Pertussis is a bacterial infection which is very contagious. It usually causes are very bad, uncontrollable cough which is followed by a sharp intake of breath. It is a condition that largely infects infants… Read more...
Worms are parasites that can infect both humans and animals. There are a large number of different worms and they can be split into different classes like flukes, roundworms and tapeworms. The symptoms that you suffer from will vary significantly… Read more...
A yeast infection is usually caused by something called Candida. This can lead to a variety of different infections including thrush. The yeast can also commonly cause infections in the mouth. A large number of yeast infections are minor and… Read more...
