Muscular dystrophy is a group of diseases that cause progressive weakness and loss of muscle mass. In muscular dystrophy, abnormal genes (mutations) interfere with the production of proteins needed to form healthy muscle. There are many kinds of muscular dystrophy, and symptoms can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition.
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a complex disorder that causes extreme fatigue that lasts for at least six months. Symptoms worsen with physical or mental activity but do not fully improve with rest. The cause of ME/CFS is unknown, although there are many theories. Experts believe it might be triggered by a combination of factors.
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of disorders characterized by the production of abnormal blood cells that do not function properly. MDS is caused by something amiss in the spongy material inside your bones where blood cells are made (bone marrow). The disorder can lead to anemia, fatigue, and infections.
Myelofibrosis is a rare and complex type of bone marrow cancer that disrupts the normal production of blood cells. It is characterized by the replacement of normal bone marrow with fibrous tissue, leading to severe anemia and other complications. Myelofibrosis is a chronic disease that can significantly impact quality of life.
Myocarditis is an inflammatory condition that affects the heart muscle, known as the myocardium. The condition can reduce the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, leading to a range of symptoms and complications. Myocarditis can be caused by various factors, including viral infections, medication reactions, and autoimmune disorders.
Myoclonus is a sudden, involuntary muscle jerk or twitch that can affect any part of the body. These movements can be brief and infrequent or prolonged and frequent. In some cases, myoclonus can be a symptom of an underlying condition or disorder, while in other cases, it may be a benign phenomenon.
Myofascial pain syndrome is a long-term pain condition that involves chronic pain in the muscles and fascia. The fascia is a thin layer of tissue that surrounds and connects the muscles, and pressure on these areas can cause pain. The pain can be felt in other parts of the body as well, which is known as referred pain.
Myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) is a rare type of cancer that begins in the connective tissue. It is one of the many types of soft tissue sarcomas, which are cancers that start in the tissues that support and surround the organs, bones, and muscles. MFS typically occurs in adults over 50 years old and tends to happen in the arms and legs.
Nail fungus is a common infection of the nail that can affect both fingernails and toenails. It is caused by a fungal infection that begins as a white or yellow-brown spot under the tip of the nail. As the infection progresses, the nail may become discolored, thickened, and crumbled at the edge. Nail fungus can affect multiple nails and can be painful and uncomfortable.
Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health condition characterized by an unreasonably high sense of one's own importance. People with this disorder have an excessive need for admiration and attention, and often lack empathy for others. They may come across as confident and charismatic, but behind this mask of confidence, they are often struggling with low self-esteem and are easily upset by criticism.
Narcolepsy is a chronic sleep disorder that affects the brain's ability to regulate sleep and wakefulness. People with narcolepsy often experience excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden muscle weakness, known as cataplexy. This can cause significant problems in their daily routine and can be debilitating.
Nasal and paranasal tumors are growths that begin in and around the passageway within the nose. Nasal tumors begin in the main passageway within the nose, called the nasal cavity, while paranasal tumors begin in air-filled chambers around the nose, called the paranasal sinuses.
Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the nasopharynx, which is located behind the nose and above the back of the throat. This type of cancer is relatively rare in the United States, but it occurs more frequently in other parts of the world, particularly in Southeast Asia.
Nearsightedness is a common vision condition in which close objects appear clear but far objects are blurry. The medical term for nearsightedness is myopia. Myopia occurs when the shape of the eye or the shape of certain parts of the eye causes light rays to bend or refract. This can cause light rays that should be focused on the nerve tissues at the back of the eye, called the retina, to be focused in front of the retina instead.
Neck pain is a common condition that can affect anyone, regardless of age or occupation. Poor posture, whether from leaning over a computer or hunching over a workbench, can strain neck muscles and lead to neck pain. Osteoarthritis is also a common cause of neck pain. While neck pain is often a minor issue, it can be a symptom of a more serious problem.