Infectious diseases are disorders caused by organisms that can live in and on our bodies. While many organisms are harmless or even helpful, some can cause disease under certain conditions. Infectious diseases can be spread from person to person, transmitted by insects or other animals, or acquired through contaminated food or water.
Infertility is a common issue that affects millions of couples worldwide. It is the medical term for when a couple cannot get pregnant despite having frequent, unprotected sex for at least a year. Infertility can be caused by a variety of factors, including health issues with either partner or a mix of factors that prevent pregnancy.
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic disorders characterized by inflammation of the digestive tract. The two main types of IBD are Crohn's disease and Ulcerative Colitis. While both conditions share some similarities, they have distinct differences in terms of their symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Inflammatory breast cancer is a rare and aggressive form of breast cancer that affects the breast tissue. It is characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal cells that can block the lymphatic vessels in the skin, causing the skin on the breast to become swollen and red or purple. Inflammatory breast cancer is often mistaken for other conditions, such as mastitis or cellulitis, which are common infections that can cause breast swelling and pain.
Ingrown hair is a common condition that occurs when a hair that has been removed starts to grow back into the skin. This can cause tiny, swollen bumps on the skin that may be painful. Ingrown hair can occur anywhere on the body where hair is present, but it is most common in areas where hair is removed frequently, such as the face, neck, and pubic area.
An inguinal hernia is a condition where tissue, such as part of the intestine, protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. The resulting bulge can be painful, especially when you cough, bend over or lift a heavy object. However, many hernias do not cause pain. Inguinal hernias are one of the most common types of hernias and can occur in both men and women.
Inherited metabolic disorders are a group of medical conditions caused by changes in specific genes that affect metabolism. These gene changes are most commonly passed down from both parents, but sometimes the gene change comes only from one parent, most often from the mother. These disorders are also known as inborn errors of metabolism.
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. It can also cause you to wake up too early and not be able to get back to sleep. You may still feel tired when you wake up. Insomnia can drain your energy level and affect your mood. It also can affect your health, work performance, and quality of life.
Intermittent explosive disorder (IED) is a mental health condition characterized by repeated, sudden bouts of impulsive, aggressive, and violent behavior or angry verbal outbursts. These explosive outbursts are too extreme for the situation, causing significant distress and impairment in daily life. IED is often misdiagnosed as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), or antisocial personality disorder.
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a chronic condition characterized by bladder pressure, bladder pain, and sometimes pelvic pain. The condition is a part of a spectrum of diseases known as painful bladder syndrome. The pain associated with IC can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, making it essential to understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for this condition.
Intestinal obstruction is a serious condition that occurs when there is a blockage in the small intestine or large intestine (colon) that prevents food or liquid from passing through. This blockage can be caused by various factors, including adhesions, hernias, colon cancer, certain medications, and inflammatory conditions such as Crohn's disease or diverticulitis. Intestinal obstruction can be life-threatening if left untreated, and it is essential to seek medical attention promptly if symptoms occur.
An intracranial hematoma is a collection of blood within the skull that can occur when a blood vessel bursts in the brain. This condition can be caused by various factors, including head injuries, bleeding disorders, and certain medical conditions. Intracranial hematomas can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
Intracranial venous malformations are veins in the brain that are unusually large. These larger veins are not likely to cause symptoms or affect how the veins work. While some people may have an intracranial venous malformation that is never diagnosed and never causes symptoms, others may be diagnosed by accident when undergoing a brain imaging test for another condition.
Intussusception is a serious condition in which part of the intestine slides into an adjacent part of the intestine, often blocking food or fluid from passing through. This telescoping action can lead to several complications, including infection, death of bowel tissue, and a tear in the bowel. Intussusception is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention to prevent long-term damage or even death.
Invasive lobular carcinoma is a type of breast cancer that begins in the milk-producing glands of the breast, known as lobules. It is an aggressive and invasive cancer that spreads quickly to other parts of the body, making it a serious health concern for women. Invasive lobular carcinoma accounts for about 10% of all breast cancer cases and is more common in women over the age of 50.