Glaucoma
Overview and Facts Glaucoma refers to a group of disorders that lead to damage to the optic nerve, the nerve that carries visual information from the eye to the brain. Glaucoma is the second most common cause of blindness in the United States. There are four major types of glaucoma: Angle-closure (acute) glaucoma Congenital glaucoma […]
Epilepsy
Overview and Facts Epilepsy is a disorder that results from the generation of electrical signals inside the brain, causing recurring seizures. Seizure symptoms vary. Some people with epilepsy simply stare blankly for a few seconds during a seizure, while others have full-fledged convulsions. About one in 100 people in the United States will experience an […]
Diabetes
Overview and Facts Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life. The cause of diabetes continues to be a mystery, although both genetics and environmental factors such as […]
Cystic Fibrosis
Overview and Facts Cystic fibrosis is an inherited disease that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive tract. It is one of the most common type of chronic lung disease in children and young adults, and may result in early death. Symptoms and Facts Cystic fibrosis (CF) is caused by […]
COPD
Overview and Facts Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it increasingly difficult for you to breathe. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the two main conditions that make up COPD, but COPD can also refer to damage caused by chronic asthmatic bronchitis. In all cases, […]
Congestive Heart Failure
Overview and Facts Heart failure, also known as congestive heart failure (CHF), means your heart can’t pump enough blood to meet your body’s needs. Over time, conditions such as narrowed arteries in your heart (coronary artery disease) or high blood pressure gradually leave your heart too weak or stiff to fill and pump efficiently. You […]
Breast Cancer
Overview and Facts Breast cancer is a cancer that starts in the tissues of the breast. There are two main types of breast cancer: Ductal carcinoma starts in the tubes (ducts) that move milk from the breast to the nipple. Most breast cancers are of this type. Lobular carcinoma starts the lobules, the parts of […]
Asthma
Overview and Facts Asthma occurs when the airways in your lungs (bronchial tubes) become inflamed and constricted. The muscles of the bronchial walls tighten, and your airways produce extra mucus that blocks your airways. Signs and symptoms of asthma range from minor wheezing to life-threatening asthma attacks. Asthma can’t be cured, but its symptoms can […]
Arthritis
Overview and Facts Arthritis is inflammation of one or more joints, which results in pain, swelling, stiffness, and limited movement. There are over 100 different types of arthritis. Symptoms and Facts If you have arthritis, you may experience: Joint pain Joint swelling Reduced ability to move the joint Redness of the skin around a joint […]
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
Symptoms and Types The symptoms at the onset of ALS may be so slight that they are frequently overlooked. Some of the most common symptoms include following: • muscle weakness in the hands, arms, legs or the muscles of speech, swallowing or breathing • twitching and cramping of muscles, especially those in the hands and […]
