Neuropathy refers to a generalized disease or malfunctioning of the nerves due to a variety of causes. Nerves are present throughout the body and damage in any location of this system affects the related body part. What Is neuropathy? The word is a combination of “neuro” + “pathy” where “neuro” refers to nerve and “pathy” means suffering or feeling. This is a term that is used to describe injury, damage or disease to the nerves. As a result of such damage, there can be several effects – pain, loss of sensation, loss of function or movement, impairment of gland or organ function. These damages are based on the part of the nervous system that is affected. Classification Neuropathy may be classified according to: The number of nerves affected- mononeuropathy, polyneuropathy, mononeuritis multiplex Type of nerve fiber that is involved in motor, sensory or autonomic systems Damaged or injured nerves can cause compression or inflammation Other classifications include cranial neuropathy vs peripheral neuropathy based on whether cranial nerves or peripheral nerves( those outside the brain/spinal cord system) are involved, focal neuropathy where only a single nerve or one single area of the body is involved. Terms like distal symmetric neuropathy are used to describe how distant the affected nerves are from the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system). Symptoms of Neuropathy The malfunction of any nerves results in neuropathy. The symptoms of neuropathy depend on the type, location and number of nerves involved There are two types of neuropathy symptoms: loss of functions and gain of functions. Motor symptoms include weakness, tiredness, lack of balance, muscle atrophy, cramps, and muscle twitch Sensory symptoms include numbness, tingling, and pain In general, the sensory symptoms appear first before motor symptoms that’s why early diagnosis and intervention are crucial Autonomic neuropathy symptoms include dryness of the mouth, constipation, difficult urination, lack of balance or dizziness when you stand up, sexual dysfunction, feeling of bloating after meals, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision, intolerance of heat, decreased sweating and hypoglycemia.

Crohn’s disease affects thousands of people in the country every year. This painful condition can be life-threatening if not treated in time. Knowing about the symptoms and diagnosis of Crohn’s disease, the treatment can go a long way in helping a person lead a normal life. What Is Crohn’s disease? This condition is categorized as an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). In this condition, the digestive tract gets inflamed leading to severe stomach pain, diarrhea, loss of weight, extreme tiredness, malnutrition, and other symptoms. The inflammation is not only contained in the digestive tract but goes deep in the layers of tissue in the bowels. A person with the condition experiences severe pain and incapacitation. If not treated in time, this condition can develop into deadly complications. The cause of Crohn’s disease is not known. An unhealthy diet and stress may worsen the condition, but doctors think a weakened immune system and hereditary factors have an important role to play in its occurrence. People with a family history of Crohn’s disease are at a greater risk of developing the condition, but this is not always the case. Other risk factors may include age, ethnicity and lifestyle factors. While the condition can develop at any age, Crohn’s disease is diagnosed in most people before they turn 30 years old. Caucasian and people of Eastern European Jewish descent seem to be at a greater risk of developing the condition. However, it affects people of all ethnicities. Cigarette smoking, taking certain anti-inflammatory drugs, and environmental factors such as living in a developed country can also contribute to the occurrence of this condition. Signs and symptoms of Crohn’s disease For most people, stomach pain and diarrhea are common conditions that go away after a few days. However, if the abdominal pain is severe and frequent, Crohn’s disease is most likely the cause of the same.

If one is looking to identify the early signs of diabetes, it is important to note that diabetes is a metabolic disorder. When the food digested by the body is not properly converted to be used for growth as well as energy, this phenomenon is what triggers diabetes. What are the early signs of diabetes? The early signs of diabetes are generally mild and mostly ignored by most people. A higher than average level of glucose is found in the blood. With type 2 diabetes, there are no significant manifestations until the effects of long-term damage are felt. As far as type 1 diabetes is concerned, there are early manifestations that occur within a couple of days or weeks. The severity is more complicated as well. Early signs that are common to both types of diabetes Hungry or fatigued The glucose needed by the cells come from the food that we eat. The body converts food that we eat into glucose. However, to ensure that the glucose reaches the cells, insulin is required by the body. When the body cannot manufacture enough or any insulin at all, or if the insulin present is resisted by the cells, they don’t get the glucose they need. Thus, leaving one with no energy. This could lead to one to feel more hungry and fatigued. Thirst and frequent urination The frequency of urination for normal people is between 4 and 7 times a day. This frequency goes up much higher in patients who have diabetes. The reason this happens is that there is complete glucose reabsorption by the body when passing through the kidneys in normal cases. The blood sugar levels rise due to diabetes. There is greater urine production by the body, and hence, more fluids are needed by the system. It is a vicious cycle, as one can feel more thirsty and so they drink more water resulting in frequent urination.

All of a sudden one experiences extreme pain in the big toe or other joints. The pain is excruciating and occurs at any time of the day. Such symptoms are typical of gout. Gout pain is a complex type of arthritic pain that occurs due to the build-up of uric acid in the bloodstream. The accumulation of uric acid forms sharp crystals in bone joints. The most common location where gout occurs is the big toe. A gout attack can occur to anyone. A gout attack typically lasts for 10 days, out of which extreme pain occurs during the initial three days. Gout attack starts at one joint and spreads to other joints when not treated. Pain relief for gout can be achieved by reducing the inflammation. Prompt treatment of gout foot pain results in the reduction of inflammation and pain and prevents spreading to other joints as well. Symptoms of gout pain Symptoms of gout pain vary with the severity and build-up of uric acid. Extremely painful gout pain is caused when the uric acid accumulates to the extent where crystals are formed at the joints. The common symptoms of gout pain are: Excruciating pain in the joints : Big toe is the most common joint that is affected by gout pain. It can also spread to other joints like elbow, ankle, wrists, and fingers. The first two to three days of a gout attack are most painful. Swollen joints : Gout is caused by the accumulation of uric acid at joints. This accumulation manifests as a swelling or bulge at the joints. Excessive uric acid deposits form crystals at the joints, which appear like tiny nodes under the skin. Moderate discomfort : After the extreme pain reduces, moderate to mild pain lingers at the joints. This discomfort lasts for weeks.

Do you feel pain in your heels while walking, jogging or running for a long period of time over a large distance? If the pain goes away after you have rested, it is of no cause of concern. If the pain persists, it is likely that you are suffering from plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a disease characterized by pain in the heels and it is the most common cause of heel pain. It is characterized by the inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot and connects your toes to your heel bone. It results in a stabbing pain that usually occurs when you take your first steps in the morning. The pain tends to decrease as you move more, but it might return if you are standing for a long period of time, or if you rise after sitting for extended periods of time. If you are experiencing this pain, consult a doctor immediately and seek plantar fasciitis treatment. Here are a few causes, symptoms and common methods of treatment for plantar fasciitis. Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis As mentioned before, plantar fasciitis leads to the onset of stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot, and near the heel. The pain is normally the worst when you first wake up in the morning and take your first steps. It may also be triggered if you have been sitting in one place for a long period of time and suddenly stand up, or if have been standing in one place for a long period of time. While such pain generally subsides, if it continues to persist and comes back after periods of time, be sure to conclude that you are suffering from plantar fasciitis. The onset of this pain may also ensure when you are exercising or after you have completed exercising.

If one has been taking several trips to the bathroom within a few hours and is experiencing a burning sensation while passing urine, then one probably has contracted a bladder infection. A bacterial infection within the bladder is termed as a bladder infection. A weakened immune system invites yeast and bladder infections. Bladder infections may be contracted by using unhygienic toilets where Escherichia coli bacteria thrive. In some cases, the bacteria can move from the intestines to the urinary system. Bladder infections treatment is fairly easy. Once a proper diagnosis is done to confirm bacterial infection in the bladder, the physician may prescribe antibiotic medication. Apart from medication, one may need other home care remedies to completely heal from the infection. When left untreated, a bladder infection may turn into a life-threatening condition when it spreads to the kidney or bloodstream. Symptoms of bladder infections A urinary tract or bladder infection symptoms vary with the severity of the infection. Common symptoms are as follows: Pain or burning sensation while urinating Bloody or clouded urine Foul smell from urine Frequent urination Frequent urge to urinate Pressure or cramps in the lower abdomen and back. Causes of bladder infections As mentioned above, bladder infections are caused due to E. coli bacteria. This bacterium enters the bladder through the urethra or from the anus. Once it enters the bladder, it attaches itself to the walls of the bladder and multiplies rapidly. Using unclean toilets is one of the main ways of contracting the E. coli. Consumption of unhygienic food could also result in intestinal infections, which in turn, causes a build-up of E. coli bacteria. Treatment for bladder infections Bladder infections treatment varies with the severity of the infection. From drinking plenty of water to heating pads, there are a number of simple home care techniques to fight bladder infections.

Pulmonary embolism is a common cardiovascular disease in the country. When the pulmonary artery in the lungs gets blocked by a blood clot, pulmonary embolism (PE) occurs. The pulmonary artery is responsible for supplying blood to the lungs. Due to the presence of the blood clot, the blood flow gets restricted resulting in decreasing levels of oxygen in the blood. PE is a serious and life-threatening condition that can not only damage a part of the affected person’s lungs but can also cause damage to other organs. According to various medical research reports, almost one-third of patients who have PE pass away because of no treatment or diagnosis. To avoid severe outcomes like permanent damage to the lungs, patients require emergency treatment. By recognizing the symptoms of pulmonary embolism, one can understand when they need to schedule an appointment with the doctor. Symptoms of pulmonary embolism The intensity of the symptoms of this cardiovascular disease can vary depending on the size of the blood clot along with the position where it lodges in the lungs. One of the most common symptoms of PE is shortness of breath. Typically, this symptom appears suddenly and gets worse with exertion. Some of the other symptoms of pulmonary embolism include: Sharp and unexplained chest pain: This pain can slowly extend into the other body parts including the neck, arms, shoulder, and jaw. It can feel like having a heart attack. The pain might get worse with deep breathing, eating, coughing, stooping or bending. With exertion, the pain would get worse. Even while resting, it will not go away completely. Tendency of fainting Excessive anxiety Rapid breathing Bluish or clammy skin Lightheadedness Irregular heartbeat Weak pulse Blood spitting up Restlessness If one notices any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially shortness of breath, they must seek medical attention immediately.

A low glucose level leads to several problems in your body and thus you need to maintain a normal blood sugar level to ensure good health. People with diabetes who are taking medications or insulin to lower their blood sugar levels are at high risk of facing this condition. Insulin is produced in the pancreas that helps your body break down glucose, getting energy for the whole day. However, people with abnormal production of insulin suffer from diabetes. People who are consuming more glucose get it stored in the muscles and liver in the form of fat, which is used as energy when needed later. Symptoms of low blood sugar Mentioned here are the symptoms of low blood sugar: Blurry vision Blurry vision is a common symptom of low blood sugar, and you may feel like you are losing your consciousness. Pale skin You may get pale skin that comes as a prime symptom of low blood sugar levels, and it’s important to consult your doctor in such a case. Nervousness Feeling nervousness can also be an indication of low blood sugar levels, which leads to you feeling anxious, followed by emotional instability. You may get an outburst of emotions that lead to other health problems, reducing the quality of life. Continuous hunger Low blood sugar levels lead to continuous hunger as if you have been starving. Your body’s need for glucose gives rise to a feeling of hunger. Severe shakes You may get severe shakes that are one of the symptoms of low blood sugar. The central nervous system starts malfunctioning in releasing catecholamine, which are the chemicals that boost the glucose production, and this leads to low blood sugar and its symptoms. Difficulty while sleeping You may face difficulty while sleeping, which indicates low blood sugar. You may get nightmares, causing tremendous emotional disturbances, which may even lead to sleepwalking.

Let’s take a brief look at yeast contagions and other fungi contagions, along with their prevention measures Fungi are everywhere. There are almost a million different species of fungi all over the world. It’s almost a miracle that only a handful of them actually cause humans any form of contagion. Microscopic fungi are often the cause of fungal contagions, and they tend to live in the environment, potentially anywhere. They have only a certain set of requirements to survive. So, it’s almost impossible for us to truly avoid them. Here’s everything you need to know about fungi contagions and most importantly, yeast contagions, probiotics for yeast infections, and other things you can do to prevent these diseases. Syndromes: How it can look or feel Mild fungal contagions can resemble cuts or rashes. If we were to take up the example of ringworm, a skin contagion that is caused by a fungus, you might already be aware of how it looks. Fungal contagion inside the body parts like the lungs can be more serious. It can cause syndromes that may be identical to tuberculosis or flu. These include mild to high fever and coughing. The most common type of fungi contagion is yeast contagion. This generally affects the genitals, and this syndrome is more common in women than it is in men. The syndromes of this contagion include itching, burning, or irritation in the genitals. In women, the itching is felt near the vagina or beside the vulva. Pain or soreness in the genitals is also common, and this pain can also involve burning sensations. In the case of men, the syndrome is generally limited to itching and serious rashes. In women, it can also lead to a white odorless or watery discharge. Swollen skin or redness is also common in both the sexes.

Arthritis is a group of degenerative health conditions that are characterized by joint pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is the most commonly occurring form of arthritis that deteriorates with age. This condition is caused due to wear and tear of bones and joints over the years. Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications provide relief from arthritis pain. Arthritis pain relief through medication has a number of side effects. Moreover, they cause damage to various organs of the body when consumed in the long run. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that has no cure, but symptomatic relief may be provided. Many are adopting natural treatment methods for arthritis pain relief in order to avoid the side effects of medication. Symptoms of arthritis Arthritis is a degenerative bone and joint disease that causes severe pain and immobility. Common symptoms of arthritis are: Joint pain Stiffness of joints Swelling or inflammation of joints Loss of mobility Decreased range of motion Redness of skin around joints Warm or inflamed joints Treatment of arthritis pain Conventional treatment for arthritis involves painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication. These medicines come with a number of serious side effects, especially when used in the long run. There are several simple home remedies that provide arthritis pain relief. Here are a few effective natural remedies for arthritis pain relief: Hot and cold therapy : Placing an ice pack for some time on the affected area, and following the cold treatment with a hot pack provides relief from joint pain. The cold pack helps to reduce swelling and inflammation of joints. The ice pack should be applied for not more than 15 minutes. An application of heat on the affected areas relaxes the muscles and increases blood circulation. The heat should be bearable and should be kept for 10-15 minutes. This is one of the most common and effective arthritis pain relief options that you can try.