Diabetes is a grave disorder that can give rise to various complications. It affects several parts of the body by initially targeting the nerves. Some of the initial signs of diabetes are leg pain and cramps. Along with these, the high blood sugar levels in the long term can cause nerve damage. In medical terms, this condition is known as diabetic neuropathy. According to a survey, several times, the patients will continue to deal with the symptoms of diabetes without knowing that they have this condition. Sometimes, they only receive a diagnosis when the pain becomes unbearable. Usually, people who have peripheral neuropathy undergo severe conditions such as damage to the nerves in the arms or legs. It is a chronic condition that occurs when a patient’s body is unable to access the hormone insulin. Leg pain is a common sign of diabetic neuropathy along with other symptoms that affect the nerves running through the limbs, hands, and feet. RIsk factors for diabetic neuropathy The risk factors which can give rise to uncontrolled blood sugar levels are: Alcoholism Infections such as Lyme disease or shingles Autoimmune diseases Vitamin deficiencies Repetitive motions Signs of diabetic pain that affects the legs Some of the most common symptoms that patients exhibit are: The leg muscles become weak Muscle cramps along with numbness Ulcers that are not able to heal Itching or burning sensation in the legs Shiny skin and loss of hair or slow hair growth on the legs Change in the color of the legs (it could get a bluish tinge, or a pale or dark red to purple color) along with the development of black patches High blood glucose levels are an unfavorable condition which can result in the damage of cells, nerves, as well as blood vessels. So, it is vital that one gets an adequate supply of glucose to all the cells so that the blood glucose levels can be adequately regulated.

Lymph nodes are a part of the lymphatic system, one of the components of the immune system of the body. Usually, swollen lymph nodes occur as the result of exposure to viruses or bacteria and indicate an infection. According to various medical research reports, the swollen lymph node in the neck is the most common along with swollen lymph nodes in other places like under the chin, in the groin and in the armpits. Usually, these lymph nodes are not visible. When these get enlarged, only then the lymph nodes become visible in the certain body areas. Especially, in the neck, behind the ear or in the groin, you may notice these as the enlarged bumps. Also, one can feel the enlarged lymph nodes by moving the hand slowly around the area that has become swollen. One can feel whether the lymph nodes are tender or not as well. Well, in order to treat the swollen lymph node in neck, diagnosing the underlying cause properly is important. With proper treatment, swollen lymph gets better. Various medications are available to deal with the infection, swelling, and pain caused by it. However, it is advisable to take any medication only under the guidance of a medical expert. Here is a list of the possible causes and symptoms of swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Causes of a swollen lymph node in the neck Sometimes, the swollen lymph nodes are referred to as the swollen glands. Viral infections One of the most common causes of these swollen lymph nodes is a viral infection. Usually, a viral upper respiratory infection like common cold is the most common cause. Here is a list of the viruses that can cause the swollen glands: Chickenpox Infectious mononucleosis HIV Measles Adenovirus Common cold viruses Herpes Not only the viruses mentioned above, but also many fungi, parasites, and bacteria cause swelling of the lymph nodes in the neck.

The joints in the human body play a very important role in holding the structure and posture of the entire body. When it comes to the joints of the body, the joints in the legs are the most crucial ones as they help us in standing on our own feet, for real. Over the years, due to wear and tear, the joints and the other various parts of the body do not function like they used to. Hence, the joints in the legs tend to cause a lot of pain and discomfort to the affected person. Excessive physical activity and injury to the joints can cause this often. Also, one of the biggest problems you might face is a meniscus tear. What is meniscus tear? The meniscus is a piece of cartilage that holds and binds all the bones forming a joint in the knee. So, for all the joints in the legs to connect, the meniscus is the only way. It is very important to prevent any injury or stress in this region. But even after considerable care, the meniscus tends to tear during physical activities like sports, intense exercising, and prolonged kneeling. This can be prevented by a brace for a meniscus tear. There is hardly anything that can be done to prevent meniscus tear, but knowing the exact causes might help in the meniscus tear treatment. Causes of a meniscus tear Playing sports like cricket, tennis, football and so on can lead to a meniscus tear. Sometimes, even while exercising, a person’s meniscus can get affected. Weight lifting, squatting and twisting leads to the tear sometimes. However, care and early treatment can help. In order to be sure of a meniscus tear, you will need to know the various symptoms of it. Symptoms of a meniscus tear Unbearable pain when moving the joint area of the leg The affected person will not be able to move the leg even slightly in case of a meniscus tear.

The hemorrhoid is a common disease that affects the masses at large. Every three out of four people suffer from hemorrhoids at some point in time in their lives. The disease is not fatal and may or may not come with symptoms. The symptoms of hemorrhoids include a feeling of discomfort, bleeding, and itching. The disease is also referred to as piles and is categorized by the swelling of the veins in the lower rectum and the anus. Of the many causes of hemorrhoids, increased pressure on these veins, or strain during bowel movement is quite common and may lead to the onset of the disease. It develops under the skin inside the anus, and around it. While there are several causes of hemorrhoids, its cause is often unknown to individuals. You must visit a doctor if you are suffering from the symptoms of the disease. Here are a few of the most common causes, symptoms, and treatment methods of the disease. Causes of Hemorrhoids There are several causes of hemorrhoids. Swollen veins around the anus and within it can develop from increased pressure in the lower rectum. The veins tend to strain and stretch under this pressure and well up. Hemorrhoids may also be a result of age. With age, the veins in the anus and the rectum weaken and stretch. Here are a few of the most common causes of hemorrhoids. Higher risk of contracting the disease if you strain during bowel movements Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet may result in the onset of the disease as well Chronic constipation and diarrhea also lead to the disease Obesity too is a cause of the disease Pregnancy may lead to the disease as well Maintaining a low fiber diet may result in the disease as well.

Shingles is a type of viral infection that results in a painful rash in the form of blisters. It is caused by the varicella zoster virus that is the same virus that causes chickenpox. After a person encounters chickenpox, the virus lies dormant in the body in the nerve tissues near the brain or spinal cord. After several years, this virus may reactivate in the form of shingles. Although this rash can appear anywhere on the body, it mostly occurs as a strip of sore blisters either on the right or left side of the upper body. It is best to get vaccinated for shingles in order to prevent the occurrence of the condition. Common symptoms of shingles In most cases, the symptoms of shingles can only be seen in a specific part of the body. These symptoms include the following: Pain, numbness or tingling in a specific body part A red rash that develops after a few days of the pain Fluid-filled blisters that crust over Itching in the affected area Sensitivity to touch Apart from these, some people also experience Fever Headache Excessive fatigue Sensitivity to light Usually, one of the first symptoms of shingles is the pain. In some cases, it can be really excruciating and severe. Because the rash mostly occurs on the torso, shingles pain is generally mistaken for a pain of the heart, kidneys or lungs. Sometimes, shingles also develop around the eye or on either side of the face and neck. Effective treatment for Shingles Medications There is no cure for this condition. However, some medications can help in reducing the severity of the symptoms of shingles: Antiviral medicines Antiviral medicines such as famciclovir and acyclovir help to reduce pain and aid the recovery process. Anti-inflammatory medicines Medicines such as ibuprofen and aspirin help to reduce pain and swelling.

Colds and allergies are two extremely common conditions, somewhat similar in nature and expression, and affect both children as well as adults of all ages. According to a survey published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is not at all uncommon for an adult to suffer from cold two to three times a year. This survey also correctly concludes that children are more likely to suffer from more frequent bouts of cold every year immune system is still developing. Allergies as a condition are also very common in both children and adults. According to a survey, around 50 million people in the country suffer from allergies. Read on to know more about the symptoms that help provide a difference between these two conditions. Cold and allergies are not the same It is true that the symptoms of these two conditions are somewhat similar, but cold and allergies themselves are fundamentally different from one another. These two conditions have significantly different causes and outbursts and the cold and allergies symptoms vary in type as well as the duration for which they last. If the doctor correctly identifies the cause behind the symptoms, then appropriate and timely treatment can be undertaken. Symptoms of a common cold Despite the apparent similarities between cold and allergies’ symptoms, the essential differences between them would be best explained if one understands these conditions would be beneficial. A cold, which is also known as “the common cold,” is, more often than not, caused by a virus and its symptoms show that. There are many different types of viruses which are responsible for causing a cold. While the symptoms and their severity may differ from individual to individual, all types of cold generally share some of the same basic characteristics. Here are some of the most common symptoms of cold:

Meningitis is a clinical term used to describe an inflammation or swelling of the membranes that surround the brain. Meningitis, especially the type caused by bacteria, is a potentially fatal condition that can rapidly transform to cause permanent brain damage, neurological problems, and can even lead to death. Doctors are required to diagnose and treat meningitis at a fast pace to prevent or reduce any long-term effects that the disease might have. Meningitis which causes inflammation is normally a direct consequence of either an infection induced by some kind of bacteria or virus. But first, it is essential to understand the signs of meningitis for early diagnosis. Some common symptoms of meningitis Normally, meningitis has symptoms like fever, lethargy or indolence, and a decreased ability to think properly. However, these symptoms are often very difficult to detect in children of a very young age. If the infection or resulting inflammation moves from the membranes of the brain or the spinal cord, then the medical term used for it is encephalitis. According to a survey, meningitis mostly occurs when a child is a newborn and till he is two years of age. The greatest risk is during the time period immediately after birth and from three to eight months of age. Increased exposure to various kinds of infections and a deficiency of the underlying immune system present from birth can increase an infant’s risk of getting meningitis. Specific symptoms for meningitis in children For the particular case of infants, the signs and symptoms of meningitis are not always obvious to the non-critical eye of the parent because of the infant’s inability to communicate symptoms to them, or to the doctors, for that matter. Therefore, caregivers, parents, relatives or guardians must pay very close attention to the infant’s overall condition, as far as meningitis symptoms in children are concerned.

While irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) does not necessarily lead to other illness related to the colon, it does stay with a patient for a long time and requires a modification of lifestyle. Gastroenterologists and primary-care providers found that 28% and 12% of total patient visits were for symptoms relating to irritable bowel syndrome, though most patients try to avoid treatment for it. There are both indirect and direct costs related to irritable bowel syndrome due to leaves from work as well as the cost of hospital visits. The quality of the patient’s life gets severely compromised, and the disease needs medical intervention for complete resolution. What are the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome? When one has irritable bowel syndrome, they may exhibit symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, or a combination of both. A patient may also have pain or cramps in the belly due to this condition. One may feel this pain mostly in the lower part of the belly, and it will intensify after meals. The patient often feels bloated and may get some relief with bowel movements. The belly protrudes, and the stools are either hard or soft. The symptoms get worse due to stress. Some patients also have problems with urination and sexual performance. The types of irritable bowel syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome can be of four types: The first kind is irritable bowel syndrome with constipation or IBS-C The second type is irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea or IBS-D The third category of irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea and constipation occurring alternately. It is known as mixed diarrhea or IBS-M. When the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome do not fall into any of the above categories, they are usually known as unsubtyped IBS or IBS-U. Risk factors for irritable bowel syndrome Women are more susceptible to this condition than men.

While summer is a welcome break for many, it can also become a dreaded time for those who suffer from prickly heat rashes. These reddish, itchy spots can cause a lot of irritation if you don’t resort to the right preventive and curative measures. Heat rashes or sweat rashes commonly occur in tropical, humid climates. Prickly heat rash can occur in adults, children, or even infants. Timely heat rash treatment and preventive measures can help combat the condition effectively. Mild prickly heat rashes usually clear up by themselves, if you reduce your exposure to the sun and maintain good hygiene. The face, neck, chest, back, groin area, under the breasts, and shoulders are likely to be affected by heat rashes. Heat rashes occur when the sweat glands are blocked and the sweat is unable to reach the skin surface to evaporate. This clogging of the sweat pores causes inflammation or rashes. Common causes of heat rashes include the following: Over-exposure to the sun Poor personal hygiene Heavy creams or lotions Wearing tight clothing Symptoms of heat rash Prickly heat is also referred to as miliaria rubra. They are characterized by tiny red bumps on the skin that are accompanied by an itchy or prickly feeling. The prickly sensation feels like a sunburn. The tiny blisters look like beads of sweat or bubbles. Heat rashes may spread to other parts of the body as well. However, it is not an infectious skin condition that could spread to others. There are mainly three types of heat rash: Clear or miliaria crystallina – This is the mildest form that usually disappears on its own Red or miliaria rubra – This occurs on the outer skin layer in the form of tiny red bumps Deep or miliaria profunda – It occurs due to repeated bouts of heat rash that may inflame deeper skin layers.

Tennis elbow is a painful condition in which the exterior of the elbow becomes painful and tender. Medically known as lateral epicondylitis, this condition happens when tendons in the elbow are overburdened by repetitive action of the arms and wrists. In such circumstances, the movement of the arms and wrists becomes difficult and there is a persistent pain in the elbows. However, elbow braces can go a long way to help you manage this condition. Read on to know more about the symptoms and treatment options for tennis elbow and how elbow braces can help the sufferer. Symptoms and treatment options for tennis elbow The usual symptoms include pain while extending the arms fully, pain on the outer part of the elbow which may become worse over a period if not treated, and pain while gripping things and movements of the wrist. A popular treatment method is going for physiotherapy, which involves progressive arm exercises. Rest, cold therapy, and medication are other ways to manage the condition. Wearing tennis elbow braces can be especially helpful. What is a tennis elbow brace and how does it help? Elbow braces are considered to be the most effective way of treating tennis elbow. It helps protect the damaged tendon during the healing process. The elbow brace is gentle and works on injured elbows by firmly compressing the upper forearm. It absorbs the forces spread through the soft tissues, thereby changing the force exerted on the tendon attachment, allowing the injury to heal better. Choose a well-fitting brace and wrap it on your arms properly to resume daily activities soon. How to choose the right braces for tennis elbow Choosing an elbow brace can be confusing as there are a plethora of options available. You can consider the following tips when choosing an elbow brace: