A burning pain or discomfort that is often felt in the upper/mid-chest/stomach area behind the breastbone. The burning sensation can often be felt rising up the throat. The discomfort may worsen when lying down. Heartburn is often brought on when hydrochloric acid (the acid used by the stomach to digest food) enters the esophagus. The […]
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Inflammation is defined as redness, swelling, pain, and/or a feeling of heat in any area of the body. Inflammation is a natural protective reaction to injury, disease, or irritation of the tissues. It is often difficult to identify the sources of inflammation. There are two forms of inflammation: 1. Acute inflammation is where the body
Haemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed, or varicose veins found around the anus and within the rectum (the lowest portion of the colon). They are classified as internal, external, or prolapsed. 1. Internal haemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, these haemorrhoids are usually painless since rectal tissue does not contain nerve fibres. Internal haemorrhoids are prone to
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Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic inflammatory conditions that primarily affect the digestive tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. 1. Crohn’s Disease: Can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus. It often involves patches of inflammation that penetrate deep
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Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a viral infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus (VZV), the same virus responsible for causing chickenpox. After a person recovers from chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in nerve cells near the spinal cord and brain. Later in life, sometimes due to factors like a weakened immune system or
Infectious mononucleosis, often called mono or glandular fever, is a viral infection usually caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It’s commonly transmitted through saliva and is often referred to as the “kissing disease” due to its association with close contact, although it can also spread through coughing, sneezing, and sharing utensils or drinks. Though rare,
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Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. They are a natural part of your body’s fat storage system and are derived from the foods you eat. Triglycerides are stored in fat cells and released for energy when needed. However, having high levels of triglycerides in your blood can be a health
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1. Influenza is a contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Influenza is commonly referred to as the “flu”. NOTE: The “stomach flu” is not the same as influenza (flu). Influenza is most commonly seen in the winter months. 2. Three types of flu viruses affect humans i.e.
GERD stands for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. It is a chronic digestive disorder characterized by the reflux of stomach acid and sometimes bile back into the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Occasional acid reflux or heartburn is common and not necessarily indicative of GERD. However, when these symptoms occur frequently or
Lipoproteins are complex particles made of fats and proteins that transport cholesterol and triglycerides through the bloodstream. High lipoprotein levels generally refer to elevated levels of certain lipoproteins, particularly: High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Often known as “good” cholesterol, higher levels of HDL are generally beneficial. HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and artery walls,
