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Myalgia

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Myalgia refers to muscle pain or discomfort that can arise from various causes. It can be a common symptom of different conditions, ranging from simple overuse or strain to more complex medical disorders. The pain can affect one muscle group or multiple muscle groups, and the intensity can vary from mild discomfort to debilitating pain. Signs & Symptoms The primary symptom of myalgia is muscle pain, which may be: Localized or widespread: Pain might be restricted to one area, such as a specific muscle group, or it can be more diffuse, affecting multiple muscles across the body. Pain upon movement or pressure: Muscles may feel sore to the touch, and movement may exacerbate the pain. In some cases, even light pressure can be painful. Stiffness and weakness: Along with pain, muscle stiffness and weakness may occur, especially if the muscle is injured or inflamed. Fatigue: Affected individuals may feel unusually tired, as the muscles require more energy to function under pain or stress....
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Muscular Dystrophy

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Muscular dystrophy (MD) refers to a group of inherited genetic disorders that cause progressive muscle weakness and degeneration. These conditions affect the muscles' ability to function, and over time, they can lead to disability. The severity and progression of the disease depend on the specific type of muscular dystrophy. Signs & Symptoms The symptoms of muscular dystrophy can vary greatly depending on the type, but common symptoms include: Progressive muscle weakness: The hallmark of all forms of MD, starting typically in childhood or adolescence, but it can also affect adults. Muscle wasting: Loss of muscle mass and the inability to perform certain movements like running, jumping, or walking. Difficulty with mobility: Affected individuals may struggle with balance, coordination, and walking, leading to the need for mobility aids as the disease progresses. Cardiac and respiratory issues: Certain types of MD can affect the heart muscles and breathing muscles, leading to comp...
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Inguinal Hernia

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An inguinal hernia occurs when a portion of tissue, such as the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall muscles in the groin area. This condition is more common in men but can affect women as well. Signs & Symptoms Symptoms of an inguinal hernia may vary but commonly include: Visible bulge: A noticeable lump in the groin or scrotum that becomes more prominent when standing, coughing, or straining. Pain or discomfort: Aching or burning sensations in the groin area, particularly during physical activity or lifting heavy objects. Swelling: Enlargement of the bulge over time, especially after prolonged activity. Severe complications: Sudden pain, nausea, vomiting, or an inability to push the hernia back in may indicate incarceration or strangulation, both of which require urgent medical attention. Anatomy Affected Abdominal wall: Weakness or defect in the inguinal canal, the pathway through which structures pass from the abdomen to the groin. Groin region: The he...
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Hypothyroidism

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Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces insufficient levels of thyroid hormones, leading to a slowing of metabolic processes. It is a common condition that can affect people of all ages, but it is particularly prevalent in older adults and women. Signs & Symptoms Hypothyroidism develops gradually, and its symptoms often mimic other conditions, making diagnosis challenging. Key signs include: General symptoms: Fatigue. Weight gain despite normal diet. Sensitivity to cold. Constipation. Skin and hair: Dry, coarse skin. Brittle hair or hair loss. Cardiovascular system: Slow heart rate (bradycardia). Puffy face or swelling in extremities. Neurological symptoms: Depression or mood changes. Memory difficulties (often termed "brain fog"). Reproductive system: Menstrual irregularities or heavy periods. Infertility. Anatomy Affected Thyroid gland: Underactive function reduces hormone output. Metabolic processes: Slowed metabolism affects energy production and utiliza...
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Hyperthyroidism

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Hyperthyroidism is a condition characterized by the overproduction of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. These hormones regulate metabolism, and their excess can result in a heightened metabolic state, affecting various bodily systems. The condition can develop due to several underlying causes, most commonly Graves' disease. Signs & Symptoms Hyperthyroidism can affect multiple systems, leading to: General symptoms: Weight loss despite normal or increased appetite. Heat intolerance. Excessive sweating. Cardiac symptoms: Rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia, atrial fibrillation). Palpitations. Neurological symptoms: Tremors. Nervousness or irritability. Insomnia. Ocular symptoms (in Graves' disease): Bulging eyes (exophthalmos). Eye discomfort or dryness. Other signs: Goiter (enlarged thyroid gland). Muscle weakness. Menstrual irregularities. Anatomy Affected Thyroid gland: Located in the neck, it becomes overactive and enlarged. Cardiovascular system: Increased hear...
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Hemophilia

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Hemophilia is a rare genetic disorder that impairs the body’s ability to form blood clots, leading to excessive bleeding even from minor injuries. The condition arises due to a deficiency or absence of specific clotting factors, proteins crucial in the blood clotting process. The two most common types are Hemophilia A (deficiency in clotting factor VIII) and Hemophilia B (deficiency in clotting factor IX). Signs & Symptoms Prolonged bleeding: After cuts, injuries, or surgeries. Unexplained bruising: Often large and deep. Joint pain and swelling: Caused by bleeding into joints (hemarthrosis), particularly in knees, elbows, and ankles. Frequent nosebleeds: Without a known cause. Internal bleeding: May lead to blood in urine or stool, or severe abdominal pain. In severe cases, spontaneous bleeding may occur without any apparent trauma. Anatomy Affected Circulatory system: Clotting pathways are compromised. Joints: Repeated bleeding into joints can cause chronic pain and joint damage. ...
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Graves' Disease

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Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder that results in the overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism). It is one of the most common causes of hyperthyroidism and is named after Irish physician Robert Graves, who described the condition in the 19th century. Signs & Symptoms Thyroid-related symptoms: Enlarged thyroid gland (goiter). Increased appetite despite weight loss. Excessive sweating and heat intolerance. Muscle weakness and fatigue. Cardiovascular symptoms: Rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia or atrial fibrillation). High blood pressure. Neurological and psychological symptoms: Anxiety, irritability, or nervousness. Tremors in hands or fingers. Insomnia. Ocular symptoms (Graves' ophthalmopathy): Bulging eyes (exophthalmos). Eye pain, redness, or light sensitivity. Double vision. Dermatological symptoms: Thick, red patches of skin (Graves' dermopathy) on the shins or tops of the feet. Anatomy Affected Thyroid gland: Located at the base of the ne...
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