Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop when strep throat or scarlet fever is not properly treated. It is a serious condition that can cause long-lasting heart damage, including heart valve problems and heart failure. Rheumatic fever is a rare disease in the United States and other developed countries, but it can affect anyone, regardless of age or background.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect more than just your joints. It is a debilitating condition that can cause significant pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints, as well as damage to other body systems. In some cases, RA can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, lung disease, and eye problems.
Rickets is a condition that affects the growth and development of children's bones, causing them to become soft and weak. This condition is usually caused by a severe and prolonged deficiency of vitamin D, which is essential for the absorption of calcium and phosphorus from food. In this article, we will delve into the causes, symptoms, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and management of rickets, as well as provide guidance on when to seek medical attention.
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by persistent redness and flushing on the face, which can be accompanied by acne-like symptoms, visible blood vessels, and skin thickening. While there is no cure for rosacea, it is possible to manage and control its symptoms with the right treatment approach.
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, providing stability and mobility to the arm. A rotator cuff injury can occur due to various factors, including age, repetitive strain, and traumatic events. Symptoms of a rotator cuff injury can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and limited mobility.
Rotavirus is a highly contagious virus that causes diarrhea, which is a common illness in children and adults worldwide. Before the development of a vaccine, most children had been infected with the virus at least once by age 5. Although rotavirus infections are unpleasant, they can usually be treated at home with extra fluids to prevent dehydration. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary to receive fluids through a vein.
Rubella, also known as German measles or three-day measles, is a contagious viral infection that is characterized by a distinctive red rash. While it is often referred to as a "mild" illness, rubella can cause serious problems for unborn babies whose mothers become infected during pregnancy.
Rumination syndrome is a condition in which someone repeatedly regurgitates undigested or partially digested food from the stomach. This process occurs without any effort or intention, and the regurgitated food is then chewed again and swallowed or spit out. Rumination syndrome is often misunderstood as a form of self-induced vomiting, but it is a distinct condition that requires attention and treatment.
A ruptured eardrum, also known as a tympanic membrane perforation, is a hole or tear in the thin tissue that separates the ear canal from the middle ear (eardrum). This condition can cause hearing loss, middle ear infections, and other complications. In most cases, a ruptured eardrum heals on its own within a few weeks, but in some cases, it may require treatment to heal.
A ruptured spleen is a medical emergency that occurs when the surface of the spleen breaks, causing internal bleeding and potentially life-threatening complications. The spleen, located just under the rib cage on the left side of the body, plays a vital role in the body's defense against infection and filtering out old blood cells from the bloodstream.
A sacral dimple is a small indentation or pit in the skin on the lower back that is present at birth in some babies. It is usually located just above the crease between the buttocks and is a common birthmark. Most sacral dimples are harmless and do not require treatment.
Sacroiliitis is a painful condition that affects one or both sacroiliac joints, which are located where the lower spine and pelvis meet. It is characterized by pain and stiffness in the buttocks or lower back, and the pain can radiate down one or both legs. The condition can be challenging to diagnose, as it may be mistaken for other causes of low back pain.
Salivary gland tumors are growths of cells that start in the salivary glands. These glands are responsible for producing saliva, which plays a crucial role in digestion, mouth moisture, and oral health. Salivary gland tumors are rare, but they can have a significant impact on a person's quality of life.
Salmonella infection, also known as salmonellosis, is a common bacterial disease that affects the intestinal tract. Salmonella bacteria typically live in animal and human intestines and are shed through stool (feces). Humans become infected most frequently through contaminated water or food.
Sarcoidosis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by the growth of tiny collections of inflammatory cells (granulomas) in any part of the body. Despite its prevalence, the exact cause of sarcoidosis remains unknown, leaving researchers and healthcare providers alike to continue searching for answers. The disease can affect various organs, including the lungs, lymph nodes, eyes, skin, and heart, among others.