[{"id":"common-diseases-hypertension","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Hypertension","answer":"Hypertension (high blood pressure) means the force of blood against artery walls stays too high over time, often without obvious symptoms.","detailed_information":"It is a major risk factor for stroke, heart attack, heart failure, kidney disease, and vision loss. Causes include genetics, high salt intake, obesity, inactivity, heavy alcohol use, chronic stress, sleep apnea, kidney disease, and some medicines. Diagnosis uses repeated blood pressure readings in clinic and sometimes home monitoring. Targets vary by age and other illnesses. Treatment includes lifestyle change (DASH-style diet, salt reduction, weight loss, exercise, smoking cessation) and medications such as ACE inhibitors, ARBs, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics.","layman_term":"Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, often silently damaging the heart and kidneys over years.","possible_causes":["Family history and age","High dietary salt and processed foods","Obesity and physical inactivity","Excess alcohol and smoking","Kidney disease or sleep apnea"],"treatment_overview":["Lifestyle: lower salt, healthy weight, regular activity","Daily home BP monitoring when advised","Take antihypertensive medicines consistently","Annual labs and cardiovascular risk review"],"medical_scientific_name":"Essential hypertension","basic_treatment_steps":["Check blood pressure regularly","Take prescribed pills at the same time daily","Reduce salty and ultra-processed foods","Limit alcohol and quit smoking"],"first_aid_steps":["Call emergency services for stroke signs (face droop, arm weakness, speech trouble)","Seek urgent care for BP extremely high with headache, chest pain, or confusion"],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["hypertension","common","common diseases","common_diseases","blood pressure","high blood pressure"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – High Blood Pressure","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/highbloodpressure.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Essential hypertension","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Essential%20hypertension"},{"title":"PubMed – Essential hypertension","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Essential%20hypertension"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/highbloodpressure.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – High Blood Pressure"},{"id":"common-diseases-type-2-diabetes","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Type 2 Diabetes","answer":"Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition where the body does not use insulin well (insulin resistance) and may eventually produce too little insulin, leading to high blood sugar.","detailed_information":"Common symptoms include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, slow-healing sores, and recurrent infections—but many people have no early symptoms. Risk factors include family history, overweight, inactivity, age, gestational diabetes history, and certain ethnic backgrounds. Diagnosis uses fasting glucose, HbA1c, or oral glucose tolerance testing. Long-term high sugar damages eyes, kidneys, nerves, and blood vessels. Management includes nutrition planning, physical activity, weight control, metformin and other glucose-lowering drugs, and sometimes insulin.","layman_term":"Blood sugar stays too high because the body cannot use insulin effectively.","possible_causes":["Insulin resistance from excess weight and inactivity","Family history of diabetes","Age and hormonal changes","Fatty liver and metabolic syndrome","Some medicines (e.g., steroids)"],"treatment_overview":["Personalized meal plan and carbohydrate awareness","Regular exercise and weight management","Glucose monitoring and HbA1c targets","Screening for eye, kidney, and foot complications"],"medical_scientific_name":"Diabetes mellitus type 2","basic_treatment_steps":["Take medicines\/insulin as prescribed","Check feet daily for cuts or numbness","Attend eye and kidney screening appointments","Carry fast sugar if on insulin or sulfonylureas"],"first_aid_steps":["If confused, vomiting, or very weak: possible dangerous high or low sugar—seek emergency care","Give quick sugar if conscious and hypoglycemic, then recheck"],"symptoms":["Increased thirst and urination","Increased hunger","Feeling tired","Blurred vision","Numbness or tingling in the feet or hands","Sores that do not heal","Unexplained weight loss"],"keywords":["type","diabetes","common","type2diabetes","type 2 diabetes","common diseases","common_diseases","blood sugar","glucose","insulin","thirst","urination"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Diabetes Type 2","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/diabetestype2.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Diabetes mellitus type 2","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Diabetes%20mellitus%20type%202"},{"title":"PubMed – Diabetes mellitus type 2","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Diabetes%20mellitus%20type%202"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/diabetestype2.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Diabetes Type 2"},{"id":"common-diseases-type-1-diabetes","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Type 1 Diabetes","answer":"Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas stops making insulin, so blood sugar rises and insulin replacement is required for life.","detailed_information":"It often starts in childhood or young adulthood with thirst, frequent urination, weight loss, and fatigue. Without insulin, a life-threatening emergency (DKA) can develop. Treatment is insulin therapy (injections or pump), carbohydrate counting, glucose monitoring, and education to prevent highs and lows. Long-term care includes complication screening similar to type 2 diabetes.","layman_term":"The body attacks insulin-producing cells, so you need insulin to control blood sugar.","possible_causes":["Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells","Family history of autoimmune disease","Environmental triggers (research ongoing)","Not caused by diet or lifestyle alone"],"treatment_overview":["Insulin therapy tailored by diabetes specialist","Continuous glucose monitoring when available","Structured education on dosing and sick-day rules","DKA prevention and emergency planning"],"medical_scientific_name":"Diabetes mellitus type 1","basic_treatment_steps":["Never skip insulin without medical guidance","Monitor glucose frequently","Learn sick-day insulin adjustment rules","Wear medical ID"],"first_aid_steps":["If vomiting, deep breathing, fruity breath, or confusion: possible DKA—emergency care immediately","Treat low glucose with fast-acting sugar when alert"],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["type","diabetes","common","type1diabetes","type 1 diabetes","common diseases","common_diseases","type 1","insulin","autoimmune","blood sugar"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Diabetes Type 1","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/diabetestype1.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Diabetes mellitus type 1","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Diabetes%20mellitus%20type%201"},{"title":"PubMed – Diabetes mellitus type 1","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Diabetes%20mellitus%20type%201"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/diabetestype1.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Diabetes Type 1"},{"id":"common-diseases-common-cold","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Common Cold","answer":"The common cold is a mild viral upper respiratory infection, usually caused by rhinoviruses, with runny nose, sneezing, sore throat, and cough.","detailed_information":"Symptoms build over 1–3 days and typically improve within 7–10 days. Complications are uncommon but can include sinusitis or ear infection. Antibiotics do not treat colds. Supportive care includes rest, fluids, saline nasal rinses, and symptom relievers as advised. Prevention uses hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with sick people.","layman_term":"A mild head-cold virus that gives you a runny nose, sneezes, and a scratchy throat.","possible_causes":["Rhinovirus and other respiratory viruses","Close contact with infected people","Touching contaminated surfaces then face","Not caused by cold weather alone"],"treatment_overview":["Rest and hydration","Saline nasal spray or steam for congestion","Pain\/fever reducers if needed","Avoid unnecessary antibiotics"],"medical_scientific_name":"Acute viral nasopharyngitis","basic_treatment_steps":["Wash hands often","Cover coughs and sneezes","Stay home while contagious if possible","Use humidified air for comfort"],"first_aid_steps":["Seek care if breathing is difficult, fever lasts beyond a few days, or symptoms worsen after initial improvement"],"symptoms":["Runny or stuffy nose","Sneezing","Sore throat","Cough","Mild headache or fatigue","Low-grade fever (sometimes)"],"keywords":["common","cold","commoncold","common cold","common diseases","common_diseases","rhinovirus","runny nose","sneezing","sore throat","cough"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Common Cold","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/commoncold.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Acute viral nasopharyngitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Acute%20viral%20nasopharyngitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Acute viral nasopharyngitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Acute%20viral%20nasopharyngitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/commoncold.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Common Cold"},{"id":"common-diseases-influenza","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Influenza","answer":"Influenza (flu) is a contagious viral respiratory illness with sudden fever, body aches, fatigue, cough, sore throat, and headache.","detailed_information":"It spreads via respiratory droplets. Complications include pneumonia, especially in elderly, pregnant, or chronically ill patients. Antiviral drugs (e.g., oseltamivir) help most when started early. Annual vaccination is the best prevention.","layman_term":"A contagious flu virus that hits hard with fever, aches, and cough.","possible_causes":["Influenza A or B virus exposure","Close contact in winter seasons","Lower immunity in elderly or chronic disease","Not caused by cold weather alone"],"treatment_overview":["Rest, fluids, and fever reducers","Antivirals within 48 hours when high-risk","Stay home to reduce spread","Annual flu vaccine for prevention"],"medical_scientific_name":"Influenza","basic_treatment_steps":["Isolate while febrile","Cover coughs and wash hands","Monitor breathing and hydration","Vaccinate household contacts when appropriate"],"first_aid_steps":["Emergency care for breathing difficulty, chest pain, confusion, or persistent high fever"],"symptoms":["Fever or feeling feverish\/chills","Cough","Sore throat","Runny or stuffy nose","Muscle or body aches","Headaches","Fatigue (tiredness)","Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children.","Sometimes people have trouble figuring out whether they have a cold or the flu. There are differences between them:","What other problems can the flu cause?Some people who get the flu will develop complications. Some of these complications can be serious or even life-threatening. They include:","Bronchitis","Ear infection"],"keywords":["influenza","common","common diseases","common_diseases","flu","fever","cough","body ache"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Flu","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/flu.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Influenza","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Influenza"},{"title":"PubMed – Influenza","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Influenza"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/flu.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Flu"},{"id":"common-diseases-acute-bronchitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Acute Bronchitis","answer":"Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to your lungs. It causes a cough that often brings up mucus. It can also cause shortness of breath, wheezing, a low fever, and chest tightness. There are two main types of bronchitis: acute and chronic.","detailed_information":"Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to your lungs. It causes a cough that often brings up mucus. It can also cause shortness of breath, wheezing, a low fever, and chest tightness. There are two main types of bronchitis: acute and chronic.\nMost cases of acute bronchitis get better within several days. But your cough can last for several weeks after the infection is gone.\nThe same viruses that cause colds and the flu often cause acute bronchitis. These viruses spread through the air when people cough, or though physical contact (for example, on unwashed hands). Being exposed to tobacco smoke, air pollution, dusts, vapors, and fumes can also cause acute bronchitis. Less often, bacteria can also cause acute bronchitis.\nTo diagnose acute bronchitis, your health care provider will ask about your symptoms and listen to your breathing. You may also have other tests.\nTreatments include rest, fluids, and aspirin (for adults) or acetaminophen to treat fever. A humidifier or steam can also help. You may need inhaled medicine to open your airways if you are wheezing. Antibiotics won't help if the cause is viral. You may get antibiotics if the cause is bacterial.\nNIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute","layman_term":"Bronchitis is an inflammation of the bronchial tubes, the airways that carry air to your lungs.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Acute bronchitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["acute","bronchitis","common","acutebronchitis","acute bronchitis","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Acute Bronchitis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/acutebronchitis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Acute bronchitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Acute%20bronchitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Acute bronchitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Acute%20bronchitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/acutebronchitis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Acute Bronchitis"},{"id":"common-diseases-sinusitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Sinusitis","answer":"Sinusitis means your sinuses are inflamed. The cause can be an infection or another problem. Your sinuses are hollow air spaces within the bones surrounding the nose. They produce mucus, which drains into the nose.  If your nose is swollen, this can block the sinuses and cause pain.","detailed_information":"Sinusitis means your sinuses are inflamed. The cause can be an infection or another problem. Your sinuses are hollow air spaces within the bones surrounding the nose. They produce mucus, which drains into the nose.  If your nose is swollen, this can block the sinuses and cause pain.\nThere are several types of sinusitis, including:\n- Acute, which lasts up to 4 weeks\n- Subacute, which lasts 4 to 12 weeks\n- Chronic, which lasts more than 12 weeks and can continue for months or even years\n- Recurrent, with several attacks within a year\nAcute sinusitis often starts as a cold, which then turns into a bacterial infection.  Allergies, nasal problems, and certain diseases can also cause acute and chronic sinusitis.","layman_term":"Sinusitis means your sinuses are inflamed.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Sinusitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["sinusitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Sinusitis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sinusitis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Sinusitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Sinusitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Sinusitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Sinusitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sinusitis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Sinusitis"},{"id":"common-diseases-allergic-rhinitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Allergic Rhinitis","answer":"Each spring, summer, and fall, trees, weeds, and grasses release tiny pollen grains into the air. Some of the pollen ends up in your nose and throat. This can trigger a type of allergy called hay fever.","detailed_information":"Each spring, summer, and fall, trees, weeds, and grasses release tiny pollen grains into the air. Some of the pollen ends up in your nose and throat. This can trigger a type of allergy called hay fever.\nSymptoms can include:\n- Sneezing, often with a runny or clogged nose\n- Coughing and postnasal drip\n- Itching eyes, nose and throat\n- Red and watery eyes\n- Dark circles under the eyes\nYour health care provider may diagnose hay fever based on a physical exam and your symptoms. Sometimes skin or blood tests are used. Taking medicines and using nasal sprays can relieve symptoms. You can also rinse out your nose, but be sure to use distilled or sterilized water with saline. Allergy shots can help make you less sensitive to pollen and provide long-term relief.","layman_term":"Each spring, summer, and fall, trees, weeds, and grasses release tiny pollen grains into the air.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Allergic rhinitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["allergic","rhinitis","common","allergicrhinitis","allergic rhinitis","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Hay Fever","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hayfever.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Allergic rhinitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Allergic%20rhinitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Allergic rhinitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Allergic%20rhinitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hayfever.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Hay Fever"},{"id":"common-diseases-asthma","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Asthma","answer":"Asthma is a chronic airway disease with inflammation and narrowing of the bronchi, causing wheeze, cough, chest tightness, and shortness of breath—often worse at night or with triggers.","detailed_information":"Triggers include allergens (dust mites, pollen, pets), cold air, exercise, respiratory infections, smoke, and stress. Diagnosis uses history, lung exam, and spirometry or peak flow testing. Treatment includes controller inhalers (often inhaled corticosteroids), rescue bronchodilators, trigger avoidance, and written asthma action plans. Severe attacks need emergency care.","layman_term":"Sensitive airways that swell and tighten, making it hard to breathe sometimes.","possible_causes":["Allergies and environmental triggers","Viral respiratory infections","Exercise-induced bronchospasm","Occupational exposures","Family history of asthma or eczema"],"treatment_overview":["Daily controller inhaler when prescribed","Rescue inhaler for sudden symptoms","Allergy control and smoke avoidance","Vaccinations (flu, COVID) per clinician advice"],"medical_scientific_name":"Asthma","basic_treatment_steps":["Use spacer device with inhalers if advised","Rinse mouth after steroid inhalers","Track peak flow if recommended","Know personal warning signs of attack"],"first_aid_steps":["For severe breathlessness, blue lips, or no relief from rescue inhaler: call emergency services","Sit upright and use rescue inhaler while waiting for help"],"symptoms":["Chest tightness","Coughing, especially at night or early morning","Shortness of breath","Wheezing, which causes a whistling sound when you breathe out","These symptoms can range from mild to severe. You may have them every day or only once in a while."],"keywords":["asthma","common","common diseases","common_diseases","wheeze","breathing","inhaler","cough"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Asthma","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/asthma.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Asthma","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Asthma"},{"title":"PubMed – Asthma","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Asthma"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/asthma.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Asthma"},{"id":"common-diseases-gerd","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"GERD","answer":"GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) is chronic acid reflux where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing heartburn, regurgitation, and sometimes cough or throat symptoms.","detailed_information":"Risk factors include obesity, hiatal hernia, late meals, alcohol, smoking, and certain foods. Complications include esophagitis, stricture, and Barrett esophagus. Treatment includes lifestyle change, antacids, H2 blockers, PPIs, and evaluation if alarm symptoms (weight loss, dysphagia) occur.","layman_term":"Stomach acid frequently coming up into the food pipe, causing heartburn.","possible_causes":["Lower esophageal sphincter weakness","Obesity and large meals","Alcohol, chocolate, spicy or fatty foods","Hiatal hernia","Pregnancy pressure"],"treatment_overview":["Smaller evening meals and head-of-bed elevation","Acid-suppressing medication when prescribed","Weight loss if overweight","Endoscopy if warning symptoms"],"medical_scientific_name":"Gastroesophageal reflux disease","basic_treatment_steps":["Avoid lying down soon after eating","Limit trigger foods","Quit smoking","Take PPI as directed"],"first_aid_steps":["Seek urgent care for vomiting blood, black stools, or severe chest pain mimicking heart attack"],"symptoms":["Tasting acid or food in the back of your mouth","A dry cough or hoarse voice","Asthma-like symptoms","Trouble swallowing","Get medical help right away if you have chest pain with shortness of breath, or pain in your jaw or arm. These can be signs of a heart problem.","Avoiding alcohol and trigger foods","Eating smaller meals","Not eating close to bedtime","Wearing loose-fitting clothes","Sleeping on your left side or raising the head of your bed","Maintaining a healthy weight","NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"keywords":["gerd","common","common diseases","common_diseases","reflux","heartburn","acid","stomach"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – GERD","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/gerd.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Gastroesophageal reflux disease","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Gastroesophageal%20reflux%20disease"},{"title":"PubMed – Gastroesophageal reflux disease","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Gastroesophageal%20reflux%20disease"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/gerd.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – GERD"},{"id":"common-diseases-peptic-ulcer-disease","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Peptic Ulcer Disease","answer":"A peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of your stomach or your duodenum, the first part of your small intestine. A burning stomach pain is the most common symptom. The pain:","detailed_information":"A peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of your stomach or your duodenum, the first part of your small intestine. A burning stomach pain is the most common symptom. The pain:\n- Starts between meals or during the night\n- Briefly stops if you eat or take antacids\n- Lasts for minutes to hours\n- Comes and goes for several days or weeks\nPeptic ulcers happen when the acids that help you digest food damage the walls of the stomach or duodenum. The most common cause is infection with a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori. Another cause is the long-term use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs) such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Stress and spicy foods do not cause ulcers, but can make them worse.\nTo see if you have an H. pylori infection, your doctor will test your blood, breath, or stool. Your doctor also may look inside your stomach and duodenum by doing an endoscopy or x-ray.","layman_term":"A peptic ulcer is a sore in the lining of your stomach or your duodenum, the first part of your small intestine.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":["NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["peptic","ulcer","disease","common","pepticulcerdisease","peptic ulcer disease","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Peptic Ulcer","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/pepticulcer.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Peptic Ulcer Disease","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Peptic%20Ulcer%20Disease"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/pepticulcer.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Peptic Ulcer"},{"id":"common-diseases-gastritis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Gastritis","answer":"Your stomach is an organ between your esophagus and small intestine. It is where digestion of protein begins. The stomach has three tasks. It stores swallowed food. It mixes the food with stomach acids. Then it sends the mixture on to the small intestine.","detailed_information":"Your stomach is an organ between your esophagus and small intestine. It is where digestion of protein begins. The stomach has three tasks. It stores swallowed food. It mixes the food with stomach acids. Then it sends the mixture on to the small intestine.\nMost people have a problem with their stomach at one time or another. Indigestion and heartburn are common problems. You can relieve some stomach problems with over-the-counter medicines and lifestyle changes, such as avoiding fatty foods or eating more slowly. Other problems like peptic ulcers or GERD require medical attention.\nYou should see a doctor if you have any of the following:\n- Blood when you have a bowel movement\n- Severe abdominal pain\n- Heartburn not relieved by antacids\n- Unintended weight loss\n- Ongoing vomiting or diarrhea\nNIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases","layman_term":"Your stomach is an organ between your esophagus and small intestine.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Gastritis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["gastritis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Stomach Disorders","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/stomachdisorders.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Gastritis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Gastritis"},{"title":"PubMed – Gastritis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Gastritis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/stomachdisorders.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Stomach Disorders"},{"id":"common-diseases-irritable-bowel-syndrome","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Irritable Bowel Syndrome","answer":"Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a problem that affects the large intestine. It can cause abdominal cramping, bloating, and a change in bowel habits. Some people with the disorder have constipation. Some have diarrhea. Others go back and forth between the two. Although IBS can cause a great deal of discomfort, it does not harm the intestines.","detailed_information":"NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases\n\nIrritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a problem that affects the large intestine. It can cause abdominal cramping, bloating, and a change in bowel habits. Some people with the disorder have constipation. Some have diarrhea. Others go back and forth between the two. Although IBS can cause a great deal of discomfort, it does not harm the intestines.","layman_term":"Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a problem that affects the large intestine.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Irritable bowel syndrome","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["irritable","bowel","syndrome","common","irritablebowelsyndrome","irritable bowel syndrome","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Irritable Bowel Syndrome","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/irritablebowelsyndrome.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Irritable bowel syndrome","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Irritable%20bowel%20syndrome"},{"title":"PubMed – Irritable bowel syndrome","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Irritable%20bowel%20syndrome"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/irritablebowelsyndrome.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Irritable Bowel Syndrome"},{"id":"common-diseases-constipation","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Constipation","answer":"Constipation means having fewer than three bowel movements a week. The stool (poop) can be hard and dry. Sometimes it is painful to pass. At one time or another, almost everyone gets constipated. In most cases, it lasts a short time and is not serious.","detailed_information":"Constipation means having fewer than three bowel movements a week. The stool (poop) can be hard and dry. Sometimes it is painful to pass. At one time or another, almost everyone gets constipated. In most cases, it lasts a short time and is not serious.","layman_term":"Constipation means having fewer than three bowel movements a week.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Constipation","basic_treatment_steps":["Eating more fruits, vegetables and grains, which are high in fiber","Drinking plenty of water and other liquids","Getting enough exercise","Taking time to have a bowel movement when you need to","Using laxatives only if your health care provider says you should","Asking your provider if medicines you take may cause constipation","It's not important that you have a bowel movement every day. If your bowel habits change, however, check with your provider.","NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["constipation","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Constipation","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/constipation.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Constipation","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Constipation"},{"title":"PubMed – Constipation","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Constipation"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/constipation.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Constipation"},{"id":"common-diseases-hemorrhoids","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Hemorrhoids","answer":"Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins around your anus or the lower part of your rectum. There are two types:","detailed_information":"What are hemorrhoids?Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins around your anus or the lower part of your rectum. There are two types:\n- External hemorrhoids, which form under the skin around your anus\n- Internal hemorrhoids, which form in the lining of your anus and lower rectum","layman_term":"Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins around your anus or the lower part of your rectum.","possible_causes":["Straining during bowel movements.","Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time.","Chronic constipation or diarrhea.","A low-fiber diet.","Weakening of the supporting tissues in your anus and rectum. This can happen with aging and pregnancy.","Frequently lifting heavy objects."],"treatment_overview":["Will ask about your medical history.","Will do a physical exam. Often providers can diagnose external hemorrhoids by looking at the area around your anus.","Will do a digital rectal exam to check for internal hemorrhoids. For this, the provider will insert a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for anything that is abnormal.","May do procedures such as an anoscopy to check for internal hemorrhoids."],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":["Eating foods that are high in fiber.","Taking a stool softener or a fiber supplement.","Drinking enough fluids every day.","Not straining during bowel movements.","Not sitting on the toilet for long periods of time.","Taking over-the-counter pain relievers.","Taking warm baths several times a day to help relieve pain. This could be a regular bath or a sitz bath. With a sitz bath, you use a special plastic tub that allows you to sit in a few inches of warm water.","Using over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams, ointments, or suppositories to relieve mild pain, swelling, and itching of external hemorrhoids.","When do I need to see a health care provider for hemorrhoids?You should see your health care provider if you:","Still have symptoms after 1 week of at-home treatment.","Eating foods that are high in fiber","Taking a stool softener or a fiber supplement"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["With external hemorrhoids, you may have:","Anal itching","One or more hard, tender lumps near your anus","Anal pain, especially when sitting"],"keywords":["hemorrhoids","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Hemorrhoids","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hemorrhoids.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Hemorrhoids","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Hemorrhoids"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hemorrhoids.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Hemorrhoids"},{"id":"common-diseases-urinary-tract-infection","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Urinary Tract Infection","answer":"A urinary tract infection (UTI) is bacterial infection of the bladder or kidneys, causing painful urination, frequency, urgency, and sometimes fever or flank pain.","detailed_information":"Women are affected more often due to anatomy. Diagnosis uses urinalysis and culture. Antibiotics are standard treatment; completing the course matters. Prevention includes hydration, post-coital urination, and avoiding unnecessary catheter use.","layman_term":"A bladder infection that makes peeing burn and feel urgent.","possible_causes":["E. coli bacteria from bowel flora","Sexual activity or new partners","Urinary retention or kidney stones","Diabetes or weakened immunity","Catheters"],"treatment_overview":["Appropriate antibiotic after urine test","Increased water intake","Pain relief as advised","Follow-up if symptoms return quickly"],"medical_scientific_name":"Urinary tract infection","basic_treatment_steps":["Finish all antibiotics","Drink water regularly","Urinate when needed—do not hold long","Seek care if fever or back pain develops"],"first_aid_steps":["Emergency if high fever, vomiting, severe flank pain—possible kidney infection"],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["urinary","tract","infection","common","urinarytractinfection","urinary tract infection","common diseases","common_diseases","uti","urine","burning","bladder"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Urinary Tract Infections","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/urinarytractinfections.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Urinary tract infection","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Urinary%20tract%20infection"},{"title":"PubMed – Urinary tract infection","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Urinary%20tract%20infection"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/urinarytractinfections.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Urinary Tract Infections"},{"id":"common-diseases-kidney-stones","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Kidney Stones","answer":"A kidney stone is a solid piece of material that forms in the kidney from substances in the urine. It may be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a pearl. Most kidney stones pass out of the body without help from a doctor. But sometimes a stone will not go away. It may get stuck in the urinary tract, block the flow of urine and cause great pain.","detailed_information":"A kidney stone is a solid piece of material that forms in the kidney from substances in the urine. It may be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a pearl. Most kidney stones pass out of the body without help from a doctor. But sometimes a stone will not go away. It may get stuck in the urinary tract, block the flow of urine and cause great pain.\nThe following may be signs of kidney stones that need a doctor's help:\n- \tExtreme pain in your back or side that will not go away\n- \tBlood in your urine\n- \tFever and chills\n- \tVomiting\n- \tUrine that smells bad or looks cloudy\n- \tA burning feeling when you urinate\nYour doctor will diagnose a kidney stone with urine, blood, and imaging tests.\nIf you have a stone that won't pass on its own, you may need treatment. It can be done with shock waves; with a scope inserted through the tube that carries urine out of the body, called the urethra; or with surgery.\nNIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases","layman_term":"A kidney stone is a solid piece of material that forms in the kidney from substances in the urine.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["kidney","stones","common","kidneystones","kidney stones","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Kidney Stones","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/kidneystones.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Kidney Stones","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Kidney%20Stones"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/kidneystones.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Kidney Stones"},{"id":"common-diseases-anemia","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Anemia","answer":"Anemia means low red blood cells or hemoglobin, reducing oxygen delivery—causing fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, and dizziness.","detailed_information":"Causes include iron deficiency, B12\/folate deficiency, chronic disease, blood loss, and bone marrow disorders. Diagnosis uses blood counts, iron studies, and sometimes endoscopy for hidden bleeding. Treatment targets the cause (iron supplements, B12, transfusion when severe).","layman_term":"Not enough healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen, so you feel tired and weak.","possible_causes":["Iron deficiency from poor intake or blood loss","Vitamin B12 or folate deficiency","Chronic kidney disease or inflammation","Inherited hemoglobin disorders","Bone marrow problems"],"treatment_overview":["Iron\/B12 replacement when deficient","Treat bleeding source (e.g., GI evaluation)","Diet rich in iron and vitamins","Transfusion only when clinically indicated"],"medical_scientific_name":"Anemia","basic_treatment_steps":["Take iron with vitamin C if prescribed","Do not ignore black stools or heavy periods","Follow up blood tests","Balance rest with gentle activity"],"first_aid_steps":["Emergency if fainting, chest pain, or very rapid heartbeat with severe weakness"],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["anemia","common","common diseases","common_diseases","fatigue","pale","iron","hemoglobin"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Anemia","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/anemia.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Anemia","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Anemia"},{"title":"PubMed – Anemia","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Anemia"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/anemia.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Anemia"},{"id":"common-diseases-iron-deficiency","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Iron Deficiency","answer":"If you have anemia, your blood does not carry enough oxygen to the rest of your body.  The most common cause of anemia is not having enough iron. Your body needs iron to make hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that gives the red color to blood. It carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.","detailed_information":"If you have anemia, your blood does not carry enough oxygen to the rest of your body.  The most common cause of anemia is not having enough iron. Your body needs iron to make hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is an iron-rich protein that gives the red color to blood. It carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.\nAnemia has three main causes: blood loss, lack of red blood cell production, and high rates of red blood cell destruction.\nConditions that may lead to anemia include:\n- Heavy periods\n- Pregnancy\n- Ulcers\n- Colon polyps or colon cancer\n- Inherited disorders\n- A diet that does not have enough iron, folic acid or vitamin B12\n- Blood disorders such as sickle cell anemia and thalassemia, or cancer\n- Aplastic anemia, a condition that can be inherited or acquired\n- G6PD deficiency, a metabolic disorder\nAnemia can make you feel tired, cold, dizzy, and irritable. You may be short of breath or have a headache.\nYour doctor will diagnose anemia with a physical exam and blood tests. Treatment depends on the kind of anemia you have.\nNIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute","layman_term":"If you have anemia, your blood does not carry enough oxygen to the rest of your body.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Iron deficiency anemia","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["iron","deficiency","common","irondeficiency","iron deficiency","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Anemia","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/anemia.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Iron deficiency anemia","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Iron%20deficiency%20anemia"},{"title":"PubMed – Iron deficiency anemia","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Iron%20deficiency%20anemia"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/anemia.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Anemia"},{"id":"common-diseases-vitamin-d-deficiency","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Vitamin D Deficiency","answer":"Why do I need vitamin D and how do I get it?Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. Calcium is one of the main building blocks of bone. Vitamin D also has a role in your nervous, muscle, and immune systems.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Why do I need vitamin D and how do I get it?Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium.","possible_causes":["You don't get enough vitamin D in your diet","You don't absorb enough vitamin D from food (a malabsorption problem)","You don't get enough exposure to sunlight","Your liver or kidneys cannot convert vitamin D to its active form in the body","You take medicines that interfere with your body's ability to convert or absorb vitamin D"],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":["People with chronic kidney or liver disease, which can affect your ability to change vitamin D into a form your body can use.","People who take medicines that affect vitamin D levels, including certain cholesterol, anti-seizure, steroid, and weight-loss medicines.","Talk with your provider if you are at risk for vitamin D deficiency.  There is a blood test that can measure how much vitamin D is in your body.","What problems does vitamin D deficiency cause?Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a loss of bone density, which can contribute to osteoporosis and fractures (broken bones).","Severe vitamin D deficiency can also lead to other diseases:","In children, it can cause rickets. Rickets is a rare disease that causes the bones to become soft and bend. African American infants and children are at higher risk of getting rickets.","In adults, severe vitamin D deficiency leads to osteomalacia. Osteomalacia causes weak bones, bone pain, and muscle weakness.","Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel","Beef liver","Cheese","Mushrooms","Egg yolks"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["vitamin","deficiency","common","vitaminddeficiency","vitamin d deficiency","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Vitamin D Deficiency","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/vitaminddeficiency.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Vitamin D Deficiency","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Vitamin%20D%20Deficiency"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/vitaminddeficiency.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Vitamin D Deficiency"},{"id":"common-diseases-obesity","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Obesity","answer":"Body Mass Index (BMI) measures how much you weigh compared to how tall you are. An adult who has a BMI of 30 or more is considered to have obesity. Severe obesity is having a BMI of 40 or higher. Obesity increases your risk for many other diseases and health problems, especially if the extra body fat is carried around the waist.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Body Mass Index (BMI) measures how much you weigh compared to how tall you are.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["Ask about your health history, which may include reviewing your weight history, weight-loss efforts, and how physically active you are.","Do a physical exam, which may include checking your height, weight, and vital signs, as well as listening to your heart and lungs.","Order blood tests or other imaging tests, which may include checking any known health problems, as well as for other weight-related diseases and health conditions.","Check your waist size, since a large waistline, with more body fat around your abdomen (belly) rather than your hips, increases your risk for weight-related health problems.","What health problems can obesity cause?Having a larger body size can make your heart work harder, put extra pressure on your joints, and may increase your risk for many health conditions, including:","Type 2 diabetes.","Heart disease.","High blood pressure.","Stroke.","Metabolic syndrome.","Osteoarthritis.","Sleep apnea."],"medical_scientific_name":"Obesity","basic_treatment_steps":["What are the treatments for obesity?Treatment plans for obesity may depend on your overall weight, other health conditions, and your willingness to participate in a weight-loss plan.","Possible treatments may include:","Dietary changes and exercise goals to help you learn how to adopt healthy nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes to lose weight safely and keep it off long term.","Counseling or support groups can give you encouragement and help you understand what's behind weight changes.","Weight-loss medicines to treat obesity.","Weight loss procedures or surgery if you have severe obesity or serious obesity-related health problems and have not been able to lose enough weight.","A healthy lifestyle that includes healthy eating patterns and regular physical activity can help you lose weight and lower your chance of developing complications related to obesity.","NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["obesity","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Obesity","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/obesity.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Obesity","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Obesity"},{"title":"PubMed – Obesity","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Obesity"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/obesity.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Obesity"},{"id":"common-diseases-hyperlipidemia","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Hyperlipidemia","answer":"If you have too much cholesterol in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood to form plaque. Plaque sticks to the walls of your arteries. This buildup of plaque is known as atherosclerosis. It can lead to coronary artery disease, a condition in which your coronary arteries become narrow or even blocked.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"If you have too much cholesterol in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood to form plaque.","possible_causes":["Lack of physical activity, with lots of sitting and little exercise. This lowers your HDL (good) cholesterol.","Smoking, which lowers HDL cholesterol, especially in women. It also raises your LDL cholesterol.","Stress, which may raise levels of certain hormones such as corticosteroids. These can cause your body to make more cholesterol.","Drinking too much alcohol, which can raise your total cholesterol level.","What can raise my risk of high cholesterol?A variety of things can raise your risk of high cholesterol:","Age. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. Even though it is less common, younger people, including children and teens, can also have high cholesterol.","Family history. High blood cholesterol can run in families.","Other health conditions. Conditions such as diabetes, chronic kidney disease, HIV, and lupus can raise your risk of high cholesterol.","Medicines. Certain medicines can raise your level of LDL cholesterol or lower your level of HDL cholesterol, including:","Steroids","Some chemotherapy medicines","Medicines taken after an organ transplant"],"treatment_overview":["If the flow of oxygen-rich blood to your heart muscle is reduced or blocked, it can cause angina (chest pain) or a heart attack."],"medical_scientific_name":"Hyperlipidemia","basic_treatment_steps":["NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["hyperlipidemia","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Cholesterol","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/cholesterol.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Hyperlipidemia","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Hyperlipidemia"},{"title":"PubMed – Hyperlipidemia","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Hyperlipidemia"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/cholesterol.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Cholesterol"},{"id":"common-diseases-hypothyroidism","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Hypothyroidism","answer":"Hypothyroidism is underactive thyroid gland producing too little thyroid hormone, slowing metabolism.","detailed_information":"Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, hair thinning, and depression. Diagnosis uses TSH and free T4. Hashimoto thyroiditis is a common cause. Treatment is levothyroxine with periodic dose adjustment.","layman_term":"Thyroid gland is sluggish, slowing energy and metabolism.","possible_causes":["Hashimoto autoimmune thyroiditis","Iodine deficiency (some regions)","Thyroid surgery or radiation","Some medicines (e.g., lithium)","Pituitary disorders (less common)"],"treatment_overview":["Daily levothyroxine replacement","TSH monitoring for dose tuning","Patient education on consistent timing","Pregnancy requires special monitoring"],"medical_scientific_name":"Hypothyroidism","basic_treatment_steps":["Take thyroid pill same way daily","Report palpitations or chest pain after dose changes","Annual blood tests","Inform doctors before new medicines"],"first_aid_steps":["Myxedema coma is rare emergency: severe confusion and low temperature—call emergency services"],"symptoms":["Fatigue","Weight gain","A puffy face","Trouble tolerating cold","Joint and muscle pain","Constipation","Dry skin","Dry, thinning hair","Decreased sweating","Heavy or irregular menstrual periods","Fertility problems in women","Depression"],"keywords":["hypothyroidism","common","common diseases","common_diseases","thyroid","hypothyroid","fatigue","weight","cold"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Hypothyroidism","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hypothyroidism.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Hypothyroidism","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Hypothyroidism"},{"title":"PubMed – Hypothyroidism","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Hypothyroidism"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hypothyroidism.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Hypothyroidism"},{"id":"common-diseases-hyperthyroidism","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Hyperthyroidism","answer":"What is hyperthyroidism?Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, happens when your thyroid gland makes more thyroid hormones than your body needs. Your thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland in the front of your neck. It makes hormones that control the way the body uses energy. These hormones affect nearly every organ in your body and control many of your body's most important functions. For example, they affect your breathing, heart rate, weight, digestion, and moods. If not treated, hyperthyroidism can cause serious problems with your heart, bones, muscles, menstrual cycle, and fertility. But there are treatments that can help.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"What is hyperthyroidism?Hyperthyroidism, or overactive thyroid, happens when your thyroid gland makes more thyroid hormones than your body needs.","possible_causes":["Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder in which your immune system attacks your thyroid and causes it to make too much hormone. This is the most common cause.","Thyroid nodules, which are growths on your thyroid. They are usually benign (not cancer). But they may become overactive and make too much thyroid hormone. Thyroid nodules are more common in older adults.","Thyroiditis, inflammation of the thyroid. It causes stored thyroid hormone to leak out of your thyroid gland.","Too much iodine. Iodine is found in some medicines, cough syrups, seaweed and seaweed-based supplements. Taking too much of them can cause your thyroid to make too much thyroid hormone.","Too much thyroid medicine. This can happen if people who take thyroid hormone medicine for hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) take too much of it."],"treatment_overview":["An irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart problems","An eye disease called Graves' ophthalmopathy. It can cause double vision, light sensitivity, and eye pain. In rare cases, it can lead to vision loss.","Thinning bones and osteoporosis","Fertility problems in women","Complications in pregnancy, such as premature birth, low birth weight, high blood pressure in pregnancy, and miscarriage","A medical history, including asking about symptoms","A physical exam","Thyroid tests, such as","TSH, T3, T4, and thyroid antibody  blood tests","What are the treatments for hyperthyroidism?The treatments for hyperthyroidism include medicines, radioiodine therapy, and thyroid surgery:","Medicines for hyperthyroidism include","Beta blocker medicines, which can reduce symptoms such as tremors, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness. They work quickly and can help you feel better until other treatments take effect."],"medical_scientific_name":"Hyperthyroidism","basic_treatment_steps":["An irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart problems","An eye disease called Graves' ophthalmopathy. It can cause double vision, light sensitivity, and eye pain. In rare cases, it can lead to vision loss.","Thinning bones and osteoporosis","Fertility problems in women","Complications in pregnancy, such as premature birth, low birth weight, high blood pressure in pregnancy, and miscarriage","A medical history, including asking about symptoms","A physical exam","Thyroid tests, such as","TSH, T3, T4, and thyroid antibody  blood tests","What are the treatments for hyperthyroidism?The treatments for hyperthyroidism include medicines, radioiodine therapy, and thyroid surgery:","Medicines for hyperthyroidism include","Beta blocker medicines, which can reduce symptoms such as tremors, rapid heartbeat, and nervousness. They work quickly and can help you feel better until other treatments take effect."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Nervousness or irritability","Fatigue","Muscle weakness","Trouble tolerating heat","Trouble sleeping","Tremor, usually in your hands","Rapid and irregular heartbeat","Frequent bowel movements or diarrhea","Weight loss","Mood swings","Goiter, an enlarged thyroid that may cause your neck to look swollen. Sometimes it can cause trouble with breathing or swallowing.","Adults over age 60 may have different symptoms than younger adults. For example, they may lose their appetite or withdraw from other people. Sometimes this can be mistaken for depression or dementia."],"keywords":["hyperthyroidism","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Hyperthyroidism","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hyperthyroidism.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Hyperthyroidism","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Hyperthyroidism"},{"title":"PubMed – Hyperthyroidism","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Hyperthyroidism"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hyperthyroidism.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Hyperthyroidism"},{"id":"common-diseases-migraine","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Migraine","answer":"Migraine is a neurological disorder causing recurring headaches, often moderate to severe, sometimes with nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light or sound.","detailed_information":"Some people have aura (visual changes) before pain. Triggers include stress, sleep change, hormones, certain foods, dehydration, and weather. Treatment includes trigger avoidance, acute medicines (triptans, NSAIDs), anti-nausea drugs, and preventive therapy for frequent attacks.","layman_term":"Intense headaches that can make you nauseated and sensitive to light, often repeating over time.","possible_causes":["Genetic predisposition","Hormonal fluctuations","Sleep disruption and stress","Specific food or drink triggers","Cervical muscle tension"],"treatment_overview":["Identify and reduce personal triggers","Acute treatment at headache onset","Preventive medication if attacks are frequent","Hydration and regular sleep schedule"],"medical_scientific_name":"Migraine","basic_treatment_steps":["Rest in a dark quiet room during attacks","Take acute medicine early in the headache","Keep a headache diary","Avoid medication overuse headaches"],"first_aid_steps":["Seek emergency care for sudden worst-ever headache, weakness, confusion, or fever with stiff neck"],"symptoms":["Prodome. This phase starts up to 24 hours before you get the migraine. You have early signs and symptoms, such as food cravings, unexplained mood changes, uncontrollable yawning, fluid retention, and increased urination.","Aura. If you have this phase, you might see flashing or bright lights or zig-zag lines. You may have muscle weakness or feel like you are being touched or grabbed. An aura can happen just before or during a migraine.","Increased sensitivity to light, noise, and odors","Nausea and vomiting","Worsened pain when you move, cough, or sneeze","Postdrome (following the headache). You may feel exhausted, weak, and confused after a migraine. This can last up to a day.","Migraines are more common in the morning; people often wake up with them. Some people have migraines at predictable times, such as before menstruation or on weekends following a stressful week of work."],"keywords":["migraine","common","common diseases","common_diseases","headache","nausea","light sensitivity","aura"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Migraine","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/migraine.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Migraine","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Migraine"},{"title":"PubMed – Migraine","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Migraine"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/migraine.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Migraine"},{"id":"common-diseases-tension-headache","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Tension Headache","answer":"Tension-type headache is the most common headache pattern—pressing or band-like head pain linked to stress, poor sleep, eye strain, or neck muscle tension.","detailed_information":"Unlike migraine, it usually lacks severe nausea or marked light sensitivity. Treatment focuses on stress reduction, posture, hydration, sleep, OTC analgesics used sparingly, and physical therapy for neck issues if present.","layman_term":"A dull, tight headache often from stress, tiredness, or neck tension.","possible_causes":["Stress and anxiety","Poor sleep or insomnia","Prolonged screen time","Dehydration","Neck and shoulder muscle strain"],"treatment_overview":["Relaxation techniques and better sleep","Limit caffeine swings","Short course of simple pain relief when needed","Physical therapy if neck-driven"],"medical_scientific_name":"Tension-type headache","basic_treatment_steps":["Stretch neck and shoulders regularly","Take screen breaks","Drink water through the day","Fix sleep schedule"],"first_aid_steps":["See a doctor if headache is sudden\/severe or with fever, weakness, or confusion"],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["tension","headache","common","tensionheadache","tension headache","common diseases","common_diseases","stress","sleep","neck"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Headache","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/headache.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Tension-type headache","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Tension-type%20headache"},{"title":"PubMed – Tension-type headache","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Tension-type%20headache"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/headache.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Headache"},{"id":"common-diseases-insomnia","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Insomnia","answer":"Insomnia can be acute (short-term) or chronic (ongoing). Acute insomnia is common. Common causes include stress at work, family pressures, or a traumatic event. It usually lasts for days or weeks.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Insomnia can be acute (short-term) or chronic (ongoing).","possible_causes":["Have a lot of stress","Are depressed or have other emotional distress, such as divorce or death of a spouse","Have a lower income","Work at night or have frequent major shifts in your work hours","Travel long distances with time changes","Have an inactive lifestyle","Are African American; research shows that African Americans take longer to fall asleep, don't sleep as well, and have more sleep-related breathing problems than Whites."],"treatment_overview":["Takes your medical history","Asks for your sleep history. Your provider will ask you for details about your sleep habits.","Does a physical exam, to rule out other medical problems that might cause insomnia","May recommend a sleep study. A sleep study measures how well you sleep and how your body responds to sleep problems.","What are the treatments for insomnia?Treatments include lifestyle changes, counseling, and medicines:","Lifestyle changes, including good sleep habits, often help relieve acute (short-term) insomnia. These changes might make it easier for you to fall asleep and stay asleep.","A type of counseling called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help relieve the anxiety linked to chronic (ongoing) insomnia","Several medicines also can help relieve your insomnia and allow you to re-establish a regular sleep schedule","If your insomnia is the symptom or side effect of another problem, it's important to treat that problem (if possible).","NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute"],"medical_scientific_name":"Insomnia","basic_treatment_steps":["Takes your medical history","Asks for your sleep history. Your provider will ask you for details about your sleep habits.","Does a physical exam, to rule out other medical problems that might cause insomnia","May recommend a sleep study. A sleep study measures how well you sleep and how your body responds to sleep problems.","What are the treatments for insomnia?Treatments include lifestyle changes, counseling, and medicines:","Lifestyle changes, including good sleep habits, often help relieve acute (short-term) insomnia. These changes might make it easier for you to fall asleep and stay asleep.","A type of counseling called cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can help relieve the anxiety linked to chronic (ongoing) insomnia","Several medicines also can help relieve your insomnia and allow you to re-establish a regular sleep schedule","If your insomnia is the symptom or side effect of another problem, it's important to treat that problem (if possible).","NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Lying awake for a long time before you fall asleep","Sleeping for only short periods","Being awake for much of the night","Feeling as if you haven't slept at all","Waking up too early"],"keywords":["insomnia","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Insomnia","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/insomnia.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Insomnia","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Insomnia"},{"title":"PubMed – Insomnia","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Insomnia"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/insomnia.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Insomnia"},{"id":"common-diseases-anxiety-disorder","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Anxiety Disorder","answer":"Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry, fear, or physical tension that is hard to control and affects daily life.","detailed_information":"Symptoms can include restlessness, racing thoughts, muscle tension, rapid heartbeat, sweating, stomach upset, avoidance of situations, and panic attacks. Generalized anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, and phobias are common forms. Causes include genetics, chronic stress, trauma, caffeine or stimulants, thyroid disease, and other medical conditions. Treatment combines therapy (especially CBT), stress-management skills, medication when needed, and treating underlying medical causes.","layman_term":"Feeling worried or on edge so often that it gets in the way of normal activities.","possible_causes":["Chronic stress or trauma","Family tendency toward anxiety","Caffeine, stimulants, or poor sleep","Thyroid or heart conditions that mimic anxiety","Major life transitions"],"treatment_overview":["Cognitive-behavioral therapy and relaxation training","Medication (e.g., SSRI) when clinically indicated","Reduce caffeine and improve sleep hygiene","Gradual exposure for phobias with professional guidance"],"medical_scientific_name":"Anxiety disorder","basic_treatment_steps":["Practice slow breathing during anxious episodes","Limit news\/social triggers if they worsen worry","Exercise regularly as tolerated","Seek professional help if panic attacks repeat"],"first_aid_steps":["For panic with chest pain or fainting: seek urgent medical assessment to rule out heart problems","Use crisis services if anxiety includes self-harm thoughts"],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["anxiety","disorder","common","anxietydisorder","anxiety disorder","common diseases","common_diseases","worry","panic","stress","fear","nervous"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Phobias","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/phobias.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Anxiety disorder","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Anxiety%20disorder"},{"title":"PubMed – Anxiety disorder","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Anxiety%20disorder"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/phobias.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Phobias"},{"id":"common-diseases-depression","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Depression","answer":"Major depressive disorder is a common mental health illness where low mood, loss of interest, or hopelessness lasts for weeks or more and interferes with sleep, work, relationships, or self-care.","detailed_information":"People with depression may feel sad, empty, guilty, tired, or worthless; lose motivation; sleep too much or too little; eat more or less; and have trouble concentrating. It is not the same as ordinary grief, though grief can trigger it. Causes are often combined: stressful life events, trauma, family history, brain chemistry changes, other medical conditions (thyroid, chronic pain), alcohol or drugs, and some medicines. Doctors diagnose using symptom duration (often two weeks or more), severity, and functional impact. They also screen for suicide risk. Treatment usually includes psychotherapy (CBT, counseling), antidepressant medication when appropriate, lifestyle support (sleep, exercise, routine), and urgent crisis care if self-harm thoughts appear.","layman_term":"Long-lasting low mood and loss of interest that make daily life feel overwhelming—not just a short bad mood.","possible_causes":["Stress, trauma, or major life changes","Family history of depression","Brain chemistry and hormonal factors","Chronic illness or ongoing pain","Alcohol, drugs, or certain medications"],"treatment_overview":["Psychotherapy with a trained counselor or psychologist","Antidepressant medication when prescribed and monitored","Regular sleep, activity, and social connection","Emergency help if suicidal thoughts occur"],"medical_scientific_name":"Depression","basic_treatment_steps":["Book an appointment with a doctor or mental health professional","Tell someone you trust if mood is worsening","Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs","Keep a simple mood and sleep diary"],"first_aid_steps":["If you have thoughts of self-harm: call your local emergency number or crisis line now","Stay with a trusted person and remove immediate means of harm","Go to the nearest emergency department if risk feels high"],"symptoms":["Sex. Men often show symptoms and coping behaviors differently than women. Rather than sad, men may appear angry or irritable.","Medical conditions. Some medicines and medical conditions may cause symptoms that look like depression. Chronic conditions may make depression worse."],"keywords":["depression","common","common diseases","common_diseases","sad","mood","mental","hopeless","fatigue","anxiety"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Depression","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/depression.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Depression","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Depression"},{"title":"PubMed – Depression","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Depression"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/depression.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Depression"},{"id":"common-diseases-osteoarthritis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Osteoarthritis","answer":"Osteoarthritis is degenerative joint disease where cartilage wears down, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced movement—common in knees, hips, and hands.","detailed_information":"Risk increases with age, joint injury, obesity, and repetitive stress. X-rays show joint-space narrowing. Treatment includes exercise, weight loss, physical therapy, pain relievers, injections, and joint replacement for severe cases.","layman_term":"Wear-and-tear arthritis that makes joints ache and stiffen, especially after activity.","possible_causes":["Age-related cartilage breakdown","Joint injury or overuse","Obesity increasing joint load","Family tendency","Alignment problems"],"treatment_overview":["Exercise and muscle strengthening around joints","Weight management","Pain control (acetaminophen, NSAIDs as advised)","Assistive devices or surgery when severe"],"medical_scientific_name":"Osteoarthritis","basic_treatment_steps":["Low-impact activity (walking, swimming)","Use heat\/cold packs for flares","Avoid excess joint overload","Physical therapy for gait training"],"first_aid_steps":["Seek care if joint is hot, very swollen, or feverish—rule out infection"],"symptoms":["Pain when you move, which often gets better with rest","Stiffness, especially for the first 30 minutes after you get up from resting","Swollen joints, especially after using the joint a lot","Less movement in the joint than normal","A joint that feels loose or unstable"],"keywords":["osteoarthritis","common","common diseases","common_diseases","arthritis","joint","knee","hip","pain","stiff"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Osteoarthritis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/osteoarthritis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Osteoarthritis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Osteoarthritis"},{"title":"PubMed – Osteoarthritis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Osteoarthritis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/osteoarthritis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Osteoarthritis"},{"id":"common-diseases-rheumatoid-arthritis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Rheumatoid Arthritis","answer":"RA differs from osteoarthritis, a common arthritis that often comes with age. RA affects the lining of your joints and damages the tissue that covers the ends of the bones in a joint. Eventually, this might cause your joints to not work as well.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"RA differs from osteoarthritis, a common arthritis that often comes with age.","possible_causes":["Your genes are parts of DNA in your cells that are passed down from your parents. Certain genes may increase your risk of getting rheumatoid arthritis, but not everyone with these genes gets RA.","The environment, which includes things such as cigarette smoke, sometimes triggers RA symptoms."],"treatment_overview":["Ask about your medical history, including your symptoms.","Ask about your family health history, including relatives who have had RA.","Do a physical exam, which includes checking your joints, looking for rashes or nodules, and listening to your chest for signs of inflammation in your lungs.","Order blood tests or imaging studies (x-ray or ultrasound) to make sure other health conditions aren't causing your symptoms since they may be like other types of arthritis and joint conditions."],"medical_scientific_name":"Rheumatoid arthritis","basic_treatment_steps":["Your provider may use a combination of treatments. Your treatment may change based on your symptoms.","You can help manage your RA symptoms if you:","Are physically active","Keep a healthy weight","Avoid injuries to your joints","Avoid activities that have repetitive motions, like bending your knee over and over","Stop smoking, or don't start","NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["RA affects people differently. You might have the disease for only a short time, or your symptoms might come and go. The severe form can be chronic (long-lasting) and may last a lifetime."],"keywords":["rheumatoid","arthritis","common","rheumatoidarthritis","rheumatoid arthritis","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Rheumatoid Arthritis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/rheumatoidarthritis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Rheumatoid arthritis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Rheumatoid%20arthritis"},{"title":"PubMed – Rheumatoid arthritis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Rheumatoid%20arthritis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/rheumatoidarthritis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Rheumatoid Arthritis"},{"id":"common-diseases-gout","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Gout","answer":"What is gout?Gout is a common type of inflammatory arthritis. It causes pain, swelling, and redness in one or more joints. It usually happens as a flare, which can last for a week or two and then gets better. The flares often begin in your big toe or a lower limb.","detailed_information":"NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases","layman_term":"What is gout?Gout is a common type of inflammatory arthritis.","possible_causes":["Calcium pyrophosphate arthritis, sometimes called pseudogout, is a related disease. It causes similar symptoms and is sometimes confused with gout. But it is caused by a buildup of calcium phosphate, not uric acid.","Who is more likely to develop gout? Many people develop gout. You are more likely to get it if you:","Are male.","Are older; it usually develops in middle age.","Have obesity.","Have certain health conditions, such as:","Heart failure","High blood pressure","Metabolic syndrome","Chronic kidney disease","Conditions that cause your cells to break down more quickly, such as psoriasis or some cancers","Rare genetic conditions that lead to increased uric acid"],"treatment_overview":["Will take your medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms.","Will do a physical exam, including examining the affected joint(s).","May order various tests, such as:","A test of a sample of fluid from one of your painful joints. The fluid is examined under a microscope and is checked for uric acid crystals.","A uric acid blood or urine test.","An ultrasound or special CT scan to look for uric acid crystal buildup in the affected joint and check for other conditions that may be causing the symptoms.","What are the treatments for gout?There are effective treatments for gout. Which treatment you get will depend on your symptoms and the cause of your gout. The goals of your treatment will be to:","Reduce the pain from gout flares, by using medicines such as:","Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.","Acetaminophen and the anti-inflammatory drug colchicine.","Oral or injected corticosteroids."],"medical_scientific_name":"Gout","basic_treatment_steps":["If needed, taking medicines to lower uric acid in the blood."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Gout flares often start suddenly at night, and the symptoms in the affected joint often include:","Intense pain, which may be bad enough to wake you up","Swelling","Redness","Warmth"],"keywords":["gout","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Gout","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/gout.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Gout","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Gout"},{"title":"PubMed – Gout","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Gout"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/gout.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Gout"},{"id":"common-diseases-low-back-pain","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Low Back Pain","answer":"If you've ever groaned, \"Oh, my aching back!\", you are not alone. Back pain is one of the most common medical problems, affecting 8 out of 10 people at some point during their lives. Back pain can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain.","detailed_information":"If you've ever groaned, \"Oh, my aching back!\", you are not alone. Back pain is one of the most common medical problems, affecting 8 out of 10 people at some point during their lives. Back pain can range from a dull, constant ache to a sudden, sharp pain.\nAcute back pain comes on suddenly and usually lasts from a few days to a few weeks. Back pain is called chronic if it lasts for more than three months.\nMost back pain goes away on its own, though it may take awhile. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers and resting can help. However, staying in bed for more than 1 or 2 days can make it worse.\nIf your back pain is severe or doesn't improve after three days, you should call your health care provider.  You should also get medical attention if you have back pain following an injury.\nTreatment for back pain depends on what kind of pain you have, and what is causing it. It may include hot or cold packs, exercise, medicines, injections, complementary treatments, and sometimes surgery.\nNIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases","layman_term":"If you've ever groaned, \"Oh, my aching back!\", you are not alone.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Low back pain","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["low","back","pain","common","lowbackpain","low back pain","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Back Pain","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/backpain.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Low back pain","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Low%20back%20pain"},{"title":"PubMed – Low back pain","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Low%20back%20pain"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/backpain.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Back Pain"},{"id":"common-diseases-sciatica","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Sciatica","answer":"Sciatica is a symptom of a problem with the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. It controls muscles in the back of your knee and lower leg and provides feeling to the back of your thigh, part of your lower leg, and the sole of your foot. When you have sciatica, you have pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling. It can start in the lower back and extend down your leg to your calf, foot, or even your toes. It's usually on only one side of your body.","detailed_information":"Sciatica is a symptom of a problem with the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body. It controls muscles in the back of your knee and lower leg and provides feeling to the back of your thigh, part of your lower leg, and the sole of your foot. When you have sciatica, you have pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling. It can start in the lower back and extend down your leg to your calf, foot, or even your toes. It's usually on only one side of your body.\nCauses of sciatica include:\n- A ruptured intervertebral disk\n- Narrowing of the spinal canal that puts pressure on the nerve, called spinal stenosis\n- An injury such as a pelvic fracture.\nIn many cases no cause can be found.\nSometimes sciatica goes away on its own. Treatment, if needed, depends on the cause of the problem. It may include exercises, medicines, and surgery.","layman_term":"Sciatica is a symptom of a problem with the sciatic nerve, the largest nerve in the body.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Sciatica","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["sciatica","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Sciatica","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sciatica.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Sciatica","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Sciatica"},{"title":"PubMed – Sciatica","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Sciatica"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sciatica.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Sciatica"},{"id":"common-diseases-conjunctivitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Conjunctivitis","answer":"Conjunctivitis is the medical name for pink eye. It involves inflammation of the outer layer of the eye and inside of the eyelid. It can cause swelling, itching, burning, discharge, and redness. Causes include:","detailed_information":"Conjunctivitis is the medical name for pink eye. It involves inflammation of the outer layer of the eye and inside of the eyelid. It can cause swelling, itching, burning, discharge, and redness. Causes include:\n- Bacterial or viral infection\n- Allergies\n- Substances that cause irritation\n- Contact lens products, eye drops, or eye ointments\nPink eye usually does not affect vision. Infectious pink eye can easily spread from one person to another. The infection will clear in most cases without medical care, but bacterial pink eye needs treatment with antibiotic eye drops or ointment.\nNIH: National Eye Institute","layman_term":"Conjunctivitis is the medical name for pink eye.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Conjunctivitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["conjunctivitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Pink Eye","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/pinkeye.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Conjunctivitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Conjunctivitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Conjunctivitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Conjunctivitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/pinkeye.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Pink Eye"},{"id":"common-diseases-otitis-media","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Otitis Media","answer":"Ear infections are the most common reason parents bring their child to a doctor. Three out of four children will have at least one ear infection by their third birthday.  Adults can also get ear infections, but they are less common.","detailed_information":"Ear infections are the most common reason parents bring their child to a doctor. Three out of four children will have at least one ear infection by their third birthday.  Adults can also get ear infections, but they are less common.\nThe infection usually affects the middle ear and is called otitis media. The tubes inside the ears become clogged with fluid and mucus. This can affect hearing, because sound cannot get through all that fluid.\nIf your child isn't old enough to say \"My ear hurts,\" here are a few things to look for:\n- Tugging at ears\n- Crying more than usual\n- Fluid draining from the ear\n- Trouble sleeping\n- Balance difficulties\n- Hearing problems\nYour health care provider will diagnose an ear infection by looking inside the ear with an instrument called an otoscope.\nOften, ear infections go away on their own. Your health care provider may recommend pain relievers. Severe infections and infections in young babies may require antibiotics.\nChildren who get infections often may need surgery to place small tubes inside their ears. The tubes relieve pressure in the ears so that the child can hear again.\nNIH: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders","layman_term":"Ear infections are the most common reason parents bring their child to a doctor.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Otitis media","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["otitis","media","common","otitismedia","otitis media","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Ear Infections","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/earinfections.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Otitis media","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Otitis%20media"},{"title":"PubMed – Otitis media","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Otitis%20media"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/earinfections.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Ear Infections"},{"id":"common-diseases-pharyngitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Pharyngitis","answer":"Your throat is a tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx (also called the voice box). The technical name for the throat is pharynx.","detailed_information":"Your throat is a tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx (also called the voice box). The technical name for the throat is pharynx.\nYou can have a sore throat for many reasons.  Often, colds and flu cause sore throats.  Other causes can include:\n- Allergies\n- Mononucleosis\n- Smoking\n- Strep throat\n- Tonsillitis\nTreatment depends on the cause.  Sucking on lozenges, drinking lots of liquids, and gargling may ease the pain.  Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help, but children should not take aspirin.","layman_term":"Your throat is a tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx (also called the voice box).","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Pharyngitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["pharyngitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Sore Throat","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sorethroat.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Pharyngitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Pharyngitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Pharyngitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Pharyngitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sorethroat.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Sore Throat"},{"id":"common-diseases-tonsillitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Tonsillitis","answer":"What are tonsils?Tonsils are lumps of tissue at the back of the throat. There are two of them, one on each side. Along with the adenoids, tonsils are part of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system clears away infection and keeps body fluids in balance. Tonsils and adenoids work by trapping the germs coming in through the mouth and nose. What is tonsillitis?Tonsillitis is an inflammation (swelling) of the tonsils. Sometimes along with tonsillitis, the adenoids are also swollen.","detailed_information":"What are tonsils?Tonsils are lumps of tissue at the back of the throat. There are two of them, one on each side. Along with the adenoids, tonsils are part of the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system clears away infection and keeps body fluids in balance.  Tonsils and adenoids work by trapping the germs coming in through the mouth and nose.","layman_term":"What are tonsils?Tonsils are lumps of tissue at the back of the throat.","possible_causes":["Adults can get tonsillitis, but it is not very common."],"treatment_overview":["No matter what is causing the tonsillitis, there are some things you can do to help your child feel better. Make sure that your child:","Gets a lot of rest","Drinks plenty of fluids","Tries eating soft foods if it hurts to swallow","Tries eating warm liquids or cold foods like popsicles to soothe the throat","Isn't around cigarette smoke or anything else that could irritate the throat","Sleeps in a room with a humidifier","Gargles with saltwater","Sucks on a lozenge (but do not give them to children under four; they can choke on them)","Takes an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen. Children and teenagers should not take aspirin.","In some cases, your child may need a tonsillectomy."],"medical_scientific_name":"Acute tonsillitis","basic_treatment_steps":["No matter what is causing the tonsillitis, there are some things you can do to help your child feel better. Make sure that your child:","Gets a lot of rest","Drinks plenty of fluids","Tries eating soft foods if it hurts to swallow","Tries eating warm liquids or cold foods like popsicles to soothe the throat","Isn't around cigarette smoke or anything else that could irritate the throat","Sleeps in a room with a humidifier","Gargles with saltwater","Sucks on a lozenge (but do not give them to children under four; they can choke on them)","Takes an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen. Children and teenagers should not take aspirin.","In some cases, your child may need a tonsillectomy."],"first_aid_steps":["Has trouble breathing","Starts drooling","Has a lot of trouble swallowing"],"symptoms":["A sore throat, which may be severe","Red, swollen tonsils","Trouble swallowing","A white or yellow coating on the tonsils","Swollen glands in the neck","Fever","Bad breath","When does my child need to see a health care provider for tonsillitis?You should call your health care provider if your child:","Has a sore throat for more than two days","Has trouble or pain when swallowing","Feels very sick or very weak"],"keywords":["tonsillitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Tonsillitis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/tonsillitis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Acute tonsillitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Acute%20tonsillitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Acute tonsillitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Acute%20tonsillitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/tonsillitis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Tonsillitis"},{"id":"common-diseases-laryngitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Laryngitis","answer":"Your throat is a tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx. The technical name for your throat is the pharynx.","detailed_information":"Your throat is a tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx. The technical name for your throat is the pharynx.\nThroat problems are common. You've probably had a sore throat. The cause is usually a viral infection, but other causes include allergies, infection with strep  bacteria or the leaking of stomach acids back up into the esophagus, called GERD.\nOther problems that affect the throat include:\n- Tonsillitis - inflammation of the tonsils\n- Cancer\n- Croup - inflammation, usually in small children, which causes a barking cough\n- Laryngitis - swelling of the voice box, which can cause a hoarse voice or loss of voice\nMost throat problems are minor and go away on their own. Treatments, when needed, depend on the problem.","layman_term":"Your throat is a tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Laryngitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["laryngitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Throat Disorders","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/throatdisorders.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Laryngitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Laryngitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Laryngitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Laryngitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/throatdisorders.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Throat Disorders"},{"id":"common-diseases-pneumonia","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Pneumonia","answer":"- A medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms","detailed_information":"- A medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms\n- A physical exam, including listening to your lungs with a stethoscope\n- Various tests, such as\n- A chest x-ray\n- Blood tests such as a complete blood count (CBC) to see if your immune system is actively fighting an infection\n- A Blood culture to find out whether you have a bacterial infection that has spread to your bloodstream\nIf you are in the hospital, have serious symptoms, are older, or have other health problems, you may also have more tests, such as:\n- Sputum test, which checks for bacteria in a sample of your sputum (spit) or phlegm (slimy substance from deep in your lungs).\n- Chest CT scan to see how much of your lungs is affected. It may also show if you have complications such as lung abscesses or pleural effusions.\n- Pleural fluid culture, which checks for bacteria in a fluid sample that was taken from the pleural space\n- Pulse oximetry or blood oxygen level test, to check how much oxygen is in your blood\n- Bronchoscopy, a procedure used to look inside your lungs' airways\nWhat are the treatments for pneumonia?Treatment for pneumonia depends on the type of pneumonia, which germ is causing it, and how severe it is:\n- Antibiotics treat bacterial pneumonia and some types of fungal pneumonia. They do not work for viral pneumonia.\n- In some cases, your provider may prescribe antiviral medicines for viral pneumonia\n- Antifungal medicines treat other types of fungal pneumonia","layman_term":"- A medical history, which includes asking about your symptoms.","possible_causes":["Streptococcus pneumoniae","Legionella pneumophila; this pneumonia is often called Legionnaires' disease","Mycoplasma pneumoniae","Chlamydia pneumoniae","Haemophilus influenzae","Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)","Some common cold and flu viruses","SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19","Fungal pneumonia is more common in people who have chronic health problems or weakened immune systems. Some of the types include:","Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)","Coccidioidomycosis, which causes valley fever","Histoplasmosis"],"treatment_overview":["It may take time to recover from pneumonia. Some people feel better within a week. For other people, it can take a month or more."],"medical_scientific_name":"Pneumonia","basic_treatment_steps":["NIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Fever","Chills","Cough, usually with phlegm (a slimy substance from deep in your lungs)","Shortness of breath","Chest pain when you breathe or cough","Nausea and\/or vomiting","Diarrhea","The symptoms can vary for different groups. Newborns and infants may not show any signs of the infection. Others may vomit and have a fever and cough. They might seem sick, with no energy, or be restless.","What other problems can pneumonia cause?Sometimes pneumonia can cause serious complications such as:","Bacteremia, which happens when the bacteria move into the bloodstream. It is serious and can lead to septic shock.","Lung abscesses, which are collections of pus in cavities of the lungs","Pleural disorders, which are conditions that affect the pleura. The pleura is the tissue that covers the outside of the lungs and lines the inside of your chest cavity."],"keywords":["pneumonia","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Pneumonia","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/pneumonia.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Pneumonia","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Pneumonia"},{"title":"PubMed – Pneumonia","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Pneumonia"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/pneumonia.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Pneumonia"},{"id":"common-diseases-copd","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"COPD","answer":"COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) is progressive lung disease (often emphysema\/chronic bronchitis) causing breathlessness, chronic cough, and mucus—strongly linked to smoking.","detailed_information":"Spirometry confirms airflow limitation. Treatment includes smoking cessation, bronchodilator inhalers, pulmonary rehabilitation, vaccines, and oxygen for advanced disease. Exacerbations may need steroids and antibiotics.","layman_term":"Smoking-related lung damage that makes breathing harder over time.","possible_causes":["Cigarette smoke exposure (main cause)","Occupational dust and fumes","Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (rare)","Recurrent childhood lung infections"],"treatment_overview":["Quit smoking—most important step","Inhaler therapy (LAMA\/LABA combinations)","Pulmonary rehab and breathing techniques","Flu and pneumococcal vaccines"],"medical_scientific_name":"Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease","basic_treatment_steps":["Use inhalers with proper technique","Avoid smoke and heavy air pollution","Know when to seek help for flare","Stay active within limits"],"first_aid_steps":["Emergency for severe breathlessness, blue lips, or confusion"],"symptoms":["Frequent coughing or a cough that produces a lot of mucus","Wheezing","A whistling or squeaky sound when you breathe","Shortness of breath, especially with physical activity","Tightness in your chest","Some people with COPD get frequent respiratory infections such as colds and the flu. In severe cases, COPD can cause weight loss, weakness in your lower muscles, and swelling in your ankles, feet, or legs."],"keywords":["copd","common","common diseases","common_diseases","emphysema","breathing","smoking","cough"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – COPD","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/copd.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Chronic%20obstructive%20pulmonary%20disease"},{"title":"PubMed – Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Chronic%20obstructive%20pulmonary%20disease"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/copd.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – COPD"},{"id":"common-diseases-sleep-apnea","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Sleep Apnea","answer":"Sleep apnea is a common disorder that causes your breathing to stop or get very shallow. Breathing pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes. They may occur 30 times or more an hour.","detailed_information":"Sleep apnea is a common disorder that causes your breathing to stop or get very shallow. Breathing pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes. They may occur 30 times or more an hour.\nThe most common type is obstructive sleep apnea. It causes your airway to collapse or become blocked during sleep. Normal breathing starts again with a snort or choking sound. People with sleep apnea often snore loudly. However, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea.\nYou are more at risk for sleep apnea if you are overweight, male, or have a family history or small airways.  Children with enlarged tonsils or adenoids may also get it.\nDoctors diagnose sleep apnea based on medical and family histories, a physical exam, and sleep study results.\nWhen your sleep is interrupted throughout the night, you can be drowsy during the day. People with sleep apnea are at higher risk for car crashes, work-related accidents, and other medical problems. If you have it, it is important to get treatment. Lifestyle changes, mouthpieces, surgery, and breathing devices can treat sleep apnea in many people.\nNIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute","layman_term":"Sleep apnea is a common disorder that causes your breathing to stop or get very shallow.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Sleep apnea","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["sleep","apnea","common","sleepapnea","sleep apnea","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Sleep Apnea","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sleepapnea.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Sleep apnea","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Sleep%20apnea"},{"title":"PubMed – Sleep apnea","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Sleep%20apnea"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sleepapnea.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Sleep Apnea"},{"id":"common-diseases-eczema","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Eczema","answer":"Eczema is a term for several different types of skin swelling. Eczema is also called dermatitis. Most types cause dry, itchy skin and rashes on the face, inside the elbows and behind the knees, and on the hands and feet. Scratching the skin can cause it to turn red, and to swell and itch even more.","detailed_information":"Eczema is a term for several different types of skin swelling. Eczema is also called dermatitis. Most types cause dry, itchy skin and rashes on the face, inside the elbows and behind the knees, and on the hands and feet. Scratching the skin can cause it to turn red, and to swell and itch even more.\nEczema is not contagious. The cause of eczema is unknown. It is likely caused by both genetic and environmental factors. Eczema may get better or worse over time, but it is often a long-lasting disease. People who have it may also develop hay fever and asthma.\nThe most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis. It is most common in babies and children, but adults can have it too. As children who have atopic dermatitis grow older, this problem may get better or go away. But sometimes the skin may stay dry and get irritated easily.","layman_term":"Eczema is a term for several different types of skin swelling.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Eczematoid dermatitis","basic_treatment_steps":["Things that irritate your skin, such as certain soaps, fabrics, and lotions","Stress","Things you are allergic to, such as food, pollen, and animals","NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["eczema","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Eczema","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/eczema.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Eczematoid dermatitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Eczematoid%20dermatitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Eczematoid dermatitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Eczematoid%20dermatitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/eczema.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Eczema"},{"id":"common-diseases-psoriasis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Psoriasis","answer":"Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. You usually get the patches on your elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms and feet, but they can show up on other parts of your body.  Some people who have psoriasis also get a form of arthritis called psoriatic arthritis.","detailed_information":"Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. You usually get the patches on your elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms and feet, but they can show up on other parts of your body.  Some people who have psoriasis also get a form of arthritis called psoriatic arthritis.\nA problem with your immune system causes psoriasis. In a process called cell turnover, skin cells that grow deep in your skin rise to the surface. Normally, this takes a month. In psoriasis, it happens in just days because your cells rise too fast.\nPsoriasis can be hard to diagnose because it can look like other skin diseases. Your doctor might need to look at a small skin sample under a microscope.\nPsoriasis can last a long time, even a lifetime. Symptoms come and go. Things that make them worse include:\n- Infections\n- Stress\n- Dry skin\n- Certain medicines\nPsoriasis usually occurs in adults. It sometimes runs in families. Treatments include creams, medicines, and light therapy.\nNIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases","layman_term":"Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Psoriasis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["psoriasis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Psoriasis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/psoriasis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Psoriasis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Psoriasis"},{"title":"PubMed – Psoriasis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Psoriasis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/psoriasis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Psoriasis"},{"id":"common-diseases-acne-vulgaris","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Acne Vulgaris","answer":"Acne is a common skin disease that causes pimples. Pimples form when hair follicles","detailed_information":"Acne is a common skin disease that causes pimples. Pimples form when hair follicles\nunder your skin clog up. Most pimples form on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. Anyone can get acne, but\nit is common in teenagers and young adults. It is not serious, but it can cause scars.\nNo one knows exactly what causes acne. Hormone changes, such as those during the teenage\nyears and pregnancy, probably play a role. There are many myths about what causes acne. Chocolate and greasy foods are often\nblamed, but there is little evidence that foods have much effect on acne in most people.\nAnother common myth is that dirty skin causes acne; however, blackheads and pimples are not\ncaused by dirt. Stress doesn't cause acne, but stress can make it worse.\nIf you have acne:\n- \tClean your skin gently\n- \tTry not to touch your skin\n- \tAvoid the sun\nTreatments for acne include medicines and creams.\nNIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin\nDiseases","layman_term":"Acne is a common skin disease that causes pimples.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["acne","vulgaris","common","acnevulgaris","acne vulgaris","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Acne","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/acne.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Acne Vulgaris","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Acne%20Vulgaris"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/acne.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Acne"},{"id":"common-diseases-contact-dermatitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Contact Dermatitis","answer":"A rash is an area of irritated or swollen skin. Many rashes are itchy, red, painful, and irritated. Some rashes can also lead to blisters or patches of raw skin.  Rashes are a symptom of many different medical problems. Other causes include irritating substances and allergies. Certain genes can make people more likely to get rashes.","detailed_information":"A rash is an area of irritated or swollen skin. Many rashes are itchy, red, painful, and irritated. Some rashes can also lead to blisters or patches of raw skin.  Rashes are a symptom of many different medical problems. Other causes include irritating substances and allergies. Certain genes can make people more likely to get rashes.\nContact dermatitis is a common type of rash. It causes redness, itching, and sometimes small bumps. You get the rash where you have touched an irritant, such as a chemical, or something you are allergic to, like poison ivy.\nSome rashes develop right away. Others form over several days. Although most rashes clear up fairly quickly, others are long-lasting and need  long-term treatment.\nBecause rashes can be caused by many different things, it's important to figure out what kind you have before you treat it. If it is a bad rash, if it does not go away, or if you have other symptoms, you should see your health care provider. Treatments may include moisturizers, lotions, baths, cortisone creams that relieve swelling, and antihistamines, which relieve itching.","layman_term":"A rash is an area of irritated or swollen skin.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Contact dermatitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["contact","dermatitis","common","contactdermatitis","contact dermatitis","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Rashes","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/rashes.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Contact dermatitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Contact%20dermatitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Contact dermatitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Contact%20dermatitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/rashes.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Rashes"},{"id":"common-diseases-urticaria","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Urticaria","answer":"Hives are red and sometimes itchy bumps on your skin. An allergic reaction to a drug or food usually causes them. Allergic reactions cause your body to release chemicals that can make your skin swell up in hives. People who have other allergies are more likely to get hives than other people.  Other causes include infections  and stress.","detailed_information":"Hives are red and sometimes itchy bumps on your skin. An allergic reaction to a drug or food usually causes them. Allergic reactions cause your body to release chemicals that can make your skin swell up in hives. People who have other allergies are more likely to get hives than other people.  Other causes include infections  and stress.","layman_term":"Hives are red and sometimes itchy bumps on your skin.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Urticaria","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["urticaria","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Hives","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hives.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Urticaria","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Urticaria"},{"title":"PubMed – Urticaria","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Urticaria"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hives.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Hives"},{"id":"common-diseases-fungal-skin-infection","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Fungal Skin Infection","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["fungal","skin","infection","common","fungalskininfection","fungal skin infection","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"PubMed – Fungal Skin Infection","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Fungal%20Skin%20Infection"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Fungal%20Skin%20Infection","source_label":"NIH \/ NLM medical references"},{"id":"common-diseases-cellulitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Cellulitis","answer":"Cellulitis is an infection of the skin and deep underlying tissues. Group A strep (streptococcal) bacteria are the most common cause.  The bacteria enter your body when you get an injury such as a bruise, burn, surgical cut, or wound.","detailed_information":"Cellulitis is an infection of the skin and deep underlying tissues. Group A strep (streptococcal) bacteria are the most common cause.  The bacteria enter your body when you get an injury such as a bruise, burn, surgical cut, or wound.\nSymptoms include:\n- Fever and chills\n- Swollen glands or lymph nodes\n- A rash with painful, red, tender skin. The skin may blister and scab over.\nYour health care provider may take a sample or culture from your skin or do a blood test to identify the bacteria causing infection. Treatment is with antibiotics. They may be oral in mild cases, or intravenous (by IV) for more severe cases.","layman_term":"Cellulitis is an infection of the skin and deep underlying tissues.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Cellulitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["cellulitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Cellulitis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/cellulitis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Cellulitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Cellulitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Cellulitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Cellulitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/cellulitis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Cellulitis"},{"id":"common-diseases-impetigo","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Impetigo","answer":"Impetigo is a skin infection caused by bacteria. It is usually caused by staphylococcal (staph) bacteria, but it can also be caused by streptococcal (strep) bacteria. It is most common in children between the ages of two and six. It usually starts when bacteria get into a break in the skin, such as a cut, scratch, or insect bite.","detailed_information":"Impetigo is a skin infection caused by bacteria. It is usually caused by staphylococcal (staph) bacteria, but it can also be caused by streptococcal (strep) bacteria. It is most common in children between the ages of two and six. It usually starts when bacteria get into a break in the skin, such as a cut, scratch, or insect bite.\nSymptoms start with red or pimple-like sores surrounded by red skin. These sores can be anywhere, but usually they occur on your face, arms and legs. The sores fill with pus, then break open after a few days and form a thick crust. They are often itchy, but scratching them can spread the sores.\nImpetigo can spread by contact with sores or nasal discharge from an infected person. You can treat impetigo with antibiotics.","layman_term":"Impetigo is a skin infection caused by bacteria.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Impetigo","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["impetigo","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Impetigo","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/impetigo.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Impetigo","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Impetigo"},{"title":"PubMed – Impetigo","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Impetigo"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/impetigo.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Impetigo"},{"id":"common-diseases-varicella","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Varicella","answer":"Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Most cases are in children under age 15, but older children and adults can get it.  It spreads very easily from one person to another.","detailed_information":"Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. Most cases are in children under age 15, but older children and adults can get it.  It spreads very easily from one person to another.\nThe classic symptom of chickenpox is an uncomfortable, itchy rash. The rash turns into fluid-filled blisters and eventually into scabs. It usually shows up on the face, chest, and back and then spreads to the rest of the body. Other symptoms include:\n- Fever\n- Headache\n- Tiredness\n- Loss of appetite\nChickenpox is usually mild and lasts 5 to 10 days. Calamine lotions and oatmeal baths can help with itching. Acetaminophen can treat the fever. Do not use aspirin for chickenpox; that combination can cause Reye syndrome.\nChickenpox can sometimes cause serious problems. Adults, babies, teenagers, pregnant women, and those with weak immune systems tend to get sicker from it. They may need to take antiviral medicines.","layman_term":"Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Varicella zoster infection","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["varicella","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Chickenpox","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/chickenpox.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Varicella zoster infection","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Varicella%20zoster%20infection"},{"title":"PubMed – Varicella zoster infection","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Varicella%20zoster%20infection"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/chickenpox.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Chickenpox"},{"id":"common-diseases-herpes-zoster","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Herpes Zoster","answer":"Is shingles contagious?Shingles is not contagious. You cannot get shingles from someone else. But you can catch chickenpox from someone with shingles if you have direct contact with fluid from their shingles rash.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Is shingles contagious?Shingles is not contagious.","possible_causes":["People with weakened immune systems are at higher risk of getting shingles. This includes those who:","Have immune system diseases such as HIV","Have certain cancers","Take medicines that weaken their immune system, such as steroids and medicines you take after  organ transplant","Your immune system may be weaker when you have an infection or are stressed. This can raise your risk of shingles.","It is rare, but possible, to get shingles more than once."],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Herpes zoster","basic_treatment_steps":["Pain relievers may also help with the pain. A cool washcloth, calamine lotion, and oatmeal baths may help relieve some of the itching."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Some people may also have other symptoms:","Fever","Headache","Chills","Upset stomach","What other problems can shingles cause?Shingles can cause other problems (complications):","Vision loss can happen if shingles affects your eye. It may be temporary or permanent.","Hearing or balance problems are possible if you have shingles within or near your ear. You may also have weakness of the muscles on that side of your face. These problems can be temporary or permanent.","Very rarely, shingles can also lead to pneumonia, brain inflammation (encephalitis), or death."],"keywords":["herpes","zoster","common","herpeszoster","herpes zoster","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Shingles","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/shingles.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Herpes zoster","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Herpes%20zoster"},{"title":"PubMed – Herpes zoster","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Herpes%20zoster"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/shingles.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Shingles"},{"id":"common-diseases-oral-thrush","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Oral Thrush","answer":"Candida is the scientific name for yeast. It is a fungus that lives almost everywhere, including in your body. Usually, your immune system keeps yeast under control. If you are sick or taking antibiotics, it can multiply and cause an infection.","detailed_information":"Candida is the scientific name for yeast. It is a fungus that lives almost everywhere, including in your body. Usually, your immune system keeps yeast under control. If you are sick or taking antibiotics, it can multiply and cause an infection.\nYeast infections affect different parts of the body in different ways:\n- Thrush is a yeast infection that causes white patches in your mouth\n- Candida esophagitis is thrush that spreads to your esophagus, the tube that takes food from your mouth to your stomach. It can make it hard or painful to swallow.\n- Women can get vaginal yeast infections, causing vaginitis\n- Yeast infections of the skin cause itching and rashes\n- Yeast infections in your bloodstream can be life-threatening\nAntifungal medicines get rid of yeast infections in most people. If you have a weak immune system, treatment might be more difficult.","layman_term":"Candida is the scientific name for yeast.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["oral","thrush","common","oralthrush","oral thrush","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Yeast Infections","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/yeastinfections.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Oral Thrush","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Oral%20Thrush"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/yeastinfections.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Yeast Infections"},{"id":"common-diseases-dental-caries","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Dental Caries","answer":"What is tooth decay?Tooth decay is damage to a tooth's surface, or enamel. It happens when bacteria in your mouth make acids that attack the enamel. Tooth decay can lead to cavities (dental caries), which are holes in your teeth. If tooth decay is not treated, it can cause pain, infection, and even tooth loss.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"What is tooth decay?Tooth decay is damage to a tooth's surface, or enamel.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["What are the treatments for tooth decay and cavities?There are several treatments for tooth decay and cavities. Which treatment you get depends on how bad the problem is:","Fluoride treatments. If you have early tooth decay, a fluoride treatment can help the enamel to repair itself.","Fillings. If you have a typical cavity, your dentist will remove the decayed tooth tissue and then restore the tooth by filling it with a filling material."],"medical_scientific_name":"Smooth surface dental caries","basic_treatment_steps":["Make sure that you get enough fluoride by","Brushing with a fluoride toothpaste","Drinking tap water with fluoride. Most bottled water does not contain fluoride.","Using fluoride mouth rinse","Practice good oral health by brushing your teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and regularly flossing your teeth","Make smart food choices by limiting foods and drinks that are high in sugars and starches. Eat nutritious, balanced meals and limit snacking.","Do not use tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco. If you currently use tobacco, consider quitting.","See a dentist for regular check-ups and professional cleanings","NIH: National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["A toothache (tooth pain)","Tooth sensitivity to sweets, hot, or cold","White or brown stains on the surface of a tooth","A cavity","An infection, which can lead to an abscess (pocket of pus) forming. The abscess can cause pain, facial swelling, and fever."],"keywords":["dental","caries","common","dentalcaries","dental caries","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Tooth Decay","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/toothdecay.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Smooth surface dental caries","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Smooth%20surface%20dental%20caries"},{"title":"PubMed – Smooth surface dental caries","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Smooth%20surface%20dental%20caries"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/toothdecay.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Tooth Decay"},{"id":"common-diseases-gingivitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Gingivitis","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Gingivitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["gingivitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Gingivitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Gingivitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Gingivitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Gingivitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Gingivitis","source_label":"NLM ClinVar disease names"},{"id":"common-diseases-periodontitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Periodontitis","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Periodontitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["periodontitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Periodontitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Periodontitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Periodontitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Periodontitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Periodontitis","source_label":"NLM ClinVar disease names"},{"id":"common-diseases-cataracts","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Cataracts","answer":"A cataract is a clouding of the clear lens inside your eye. This cloudiness blocks light from reaching the back of the eye, making it harder to see clearly. A cataract can affect one or both eyes, but it doesn't spread from one eye to the other.","detailed_information":"What are cataracts?A cataract is a clouding of the clear lens inside your eye. This cloudiness blocks light from reaching the back of the eye, making it harder to see clearly. A cataract can affect one or both eyes, but it doesn't spread from one eye to the other.\nCataracts usually develop slowly. As they get worse, your vision can become blurry or dim. Brighter lighting or new eyeglasses may help at first, but if cataracts begin to interfere with your daily activities, you may need cataract surgery.\nWithout treatment, cataracts can cause severe or even permanent loss of vision.","layman_term":"A cataract is a clouding of the clear lens inside your eye.","possible_causes":["Cataracts can also develop after an eye injury or surgery for another eye condition, like glaucoma.","Have certain health problems, like diabetes","Have a family history of cataracts","Have had an eye injury or eye surgery","Take steroid medicines, used to treat conditions like arthritis or allergies","Smoke","Drink excessive amounts of alcohol","Have spent a lot of time in the sun"],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Cataracts, Autosomal Dominant","basic_treatment_steps":["Wear sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to block ultraviolet (UV) sunlight and help delay cataracts.","Protect your eyes from injury when using power tools or playing certain sports.","Eat a healthy diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains.","NIH: National Eye Institute"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Blurry or cloudy vision","Colors that seem faded","Glare from headlights, lamps, or sunlight that seems too bright","Halos around lights","Not being able to see well at night","Double vision (this may go away as the cataract gets bigger)","Frequent changes in your glasses or contact lens prescription","Trouble reading or doing other everyday activities","Talk with your provider about these symptoms since they could also be signs of other eye problems."],"keywords":["cataracts","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Cataract","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/cataract.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Cataracts, Autosomal Dominant","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Cataracts%2C%20Autosomal%20Dominant"},{"title":"PubMed – Cataracts, Autosomal Dominant","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Cataracts%2C%20Autosomal%20Dominant"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/cataract.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Cataract"},{"id":"common-diseases-glaucoma","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Glaucoma","answer":"What is glaucoma?Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the optic nerve of one, or both, of your eyes. This can result in vision loss. There are different types of glaucoma, but the most common type is open-angle glaucoma. Other less common types include angle-closure glaucoma, and congenital glaucoma. You may not have any symptoms of glaucoma. Regular eye exams by an eye care provider can check for glaucoma and other eye problems to help protect your vision. Treatments that lower eye pressure help slow the disease. Without treatment, glaucoma can eventually lead to blindness.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"What is glaucoma?Glaucoma is a group of diseases that can damage the optic nerve of one, or both, of your eyes.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["Visual field testing. This check of your peripheral (side) vision allows your eye care provider to find out how well you can see objects off to the side of your vision without moving your eyes.","Tonometry. This measures the pressure inside your eye.","If you're at higher risk for glaucoma, you should get comprehensive eye exams every one to two years. You're at higher risk if you:","Are Black or African American and over age 40","Are over age 60, especially if you're Hispanic or Latino","Have a family history of glaucoma","You're also at higher risk if you have high blood pressure or diabetes and should get a dilated eye exam at least once a year. Talk with your provider about your risk and how often you should get your eyes checked."],"medical_scientific_name":"Glaucoma","basic_treatment_steps":["Other treatments may include oral medicines, laser treatment, and\/or surgery.","A combination of these treatments may be used to lower eye pressure and help drain the fluid out of your eye.","NIH: National Eye Institute"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["glaucoma","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Glaucoma","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/glaucoma.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Glaucoma","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Glaucoma"},{"title":"PubMed – Glaucoma","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Glaucoma"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/glaucoma.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Glaucoma"},{"id":"common-diseases-dry-eye-syndrome","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Dry Eye Syndrome","answer":"You may only think of tears as those salty drops that fall from your eyes when you cry. Actually, your tears clean your eyes every time you blink. Tears also keep your eyes moist, which is important for your vision.","detailed_information":"You may only think of tears as those salty drops that fall from your eyes when you cry. Actually, your tears clean your eyes every time you blink. Tears also keep your eyes moist, which is important for your vision.\nTear glands produce tears, and tear ducts carry the tears from the glands to the surface of your eye.  Problems with the tear system can include too many tears, too few tears, or problems with the tear ducts. Treatment of the problem depends on the cause.","layman_term":"You may only think of tears as those salty drops that fall from your eyes when you cry.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Dry eye syndrome","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["dry","eye","syndrome","common","dryeyesyndrome","dry eye syndrome","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Tears","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/tears.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Dry eye syndrome","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Dry%20eye%20syndrome"},{"title":"PubMed – Dry eye syndrome","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Dry%20eye%20syndrome"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/tears.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Tears"},{"id":"common-diseases-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia","answer":"Usually, the prostate gland continues to grow during adult life. That's why BPH is the most common prostate condition in people over age 50. As the prostate gets bigger, it may press against the bladder and pinch the urethra. This can slow or block the flow of urine out of your bladder.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Usually, the prostate gland continues to grow during adult life.","possible_causes":["Who is more likely to develop BPH?You're more likely to develop BPH if you:","Are age 40 or older. The chance of getting BPH increases as you get older.","Have family members who have had BPH.","Have certain health conditions such as:","Obesity.","Heart disease and problems with blood circulation.","Type 2 diabetes.","Erectile dysfunction.","Don't get enough physical activity."],"treatment_overview":["Ask about your medical history. Be sure to tell your provider about all the medicines you take, because certain medicines can make BPH symptoms worse.","Ask about your family health history.","Examine you. The exam may include a digital rectal exam (DRE) of your prostate. In a DRE, your provider inserts a gloved finger into your rectum to check if your prostate is large, tender, or irregular in any other way.","Order medical tests, if needed, such as:","Urine tests.","A PSA blood test (prostate-specific antigen test).","Urodynamic testing to see how well you can hold and release urine.","Cystoscopy to look inside your urethra and bladder.","Ultrasound pictures of your prostate and urinary tract.","A prostate biopsy to diagnose or rule out prostate cancer.","What are the treatments for BPH?Not everyone needs treatment for BPH. Treatment options depend on how much your symptoms bother you, your health, age, and the size of your prostate:","Lifestyle changes may improve mild symptoms. They include:"],"medical_scientific_name":"Benign prostatic hyperplasia","basic_treatment_steps":["Medicines can help mild to moderate symptoms by:","Stopping the prostate from growing","Shrinking the prostate","Relaxing muscles to improve urine flow","Sometimes combining 2 types of medicine helps more than taking just one type of medicine.","Medical procedures can help improve moderate to severe BPH symptoms when medicines don't help enough. There are several different types of procedures. They all use an instrument inserted into the urethra to either:","Widen the urethra","Destroy part of the prostate with heat","Surgery may be helpful when symptoms are severe, other treatments haven't helped, or you have another problem, such as bladder damage. Different types of surgery are used to:","Remove part or all of the prostate","Make cuts in the prostate to take pressure off the urethra","Most BPH surgery is done with tools inserted into the urethra."],"first_aid_steps":["Taking certain over-the-counter cold or allergy medicines","Drinking alcohol","Cold temperatures","Not moving enough over a long period of time","Urinary tract infections (UTIs)","Bladder damage and bladder stones","Kidney damage"],"symptoms":["Having a frequent or urgent need to urinate","Waking up many times to urinate","Having problems with urine flow, such as:","Trouble starting to urinate","A stream that's weak, slow, or stops and starts","Dribbling after urination","Urinary incontinence","Feeling that you can't completely empty your bladder","Pain after ejaculation or during urination","Urine with an unusual color or smell","It's important to see your health care provider if you have any of these symptoms because they could be from a more serious health problem.","You should get medical help right away if you:"],"keywords":["benign","prostatic","hyperplasia","common","benignprostatichyperplasia","benign prostatic hyperplasia","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Enlarged Prostate (BPH)","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/enlargedprostatebph.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Benign prostatic hyperplasia","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Benign%20prostatic%20hyperplasia"},{"title":"PubMed – Benign prostatic hyperplasia","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Benign%20prostatic%20hyperplasia"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/enlargedprostatebph.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Enlarged Prostate (BPH)"},{"id":"common-diseases-erectile-dysfunction","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Erectile Dysfunction","answer":"Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common type of male sexual dysfunction. It is when a man has trouble getting or keeping an erection. ED becomes more common as you get older.  But it's not a natural part of aging.","detailed_information":"Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common type of male sexual dysfunction. It is when a man has trouble getting or keeping an erection. ED becomes more common as you get older.  But it's not a natural part of aging.","layman_term":"Erectile dysfunction (ED) is a common type of male sexual dysfunction.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["Your doctor can offer several new treatments for ED. For many men, the answer is as simple as taking a pill. Getting more exercise, losing weight, or stopping smoking may also help.","NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"medical_scientific_name":"Erectile dysfunction","basic_treatment_steps":["Your doctor can offer several new treatments for ED. For many men, the answer is as simple as taking a pill. Getting more exercise, losing weight, or stopping smoking may also help.","NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["erectile","dysfunction","common","erectiledysfunction","erectile dysfunction","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Erectile Dysfunction","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/erectiledysfunction.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Erectile dysfunction","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Erectile%20dysfunction"},{"title":"PubMed – Erectile dysfunction","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Erectile%20dysfunction"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/erectiledysfunction.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Erectile Dysfunction"},{"id":"common-diseases-menstrual-irregularity","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Menstrual Irregularity","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["menstrual","irregularity","common","menstrualirregularity","menstrual irregularity","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"PubMed – Menstrual Irregularity","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Menstrual%20Irregularity"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Menstrual%20Irregularity","source_label":"NIH \/ NLM medical references"},{"id":"common-diseases-polycystic-ovary-syndrome","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Polycystic Ovary Syndrome","answer":"What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the name for set of symptoms that are related to an imbalance of hormones. PCOS affects the ovaries, as well as many other parts of the body. People with PCOS usually have at least two of these problems: - Not ovulating. Normally, your ovaries make the egg that is released each month as part of a healthy menstrual cycle. This is called ovulation. But with PCOS, the egg may not develop as it should, or it may not be released during ovulation. Your periods may be irregular, or you may not have them at all. - High levels of androgens. Androgens are hormones that are important for normal male sexual development. Women normally make smaller amounts of androgens. Having higher levels of androgens can cause you to have extra body or facial hair (called hirsutism). - Cysts in one or both ovaries. Cysts are growths that are small, fluid-filled sacs.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the name for set of symptoms that are related to an imbalance of hormones.","possible_causes":["Genetics. PCOS tends to run in families.","Imbalances in androgen levels."],"treatment_overview":["Will do a physical exam, which will include looking for the physical signs of PCOS.","Will ask about your medical history and family health history.","May do a pelvic exam to check for signs of extra male hormones and to see if your ovaries are enlarged or swollen.","May order a pelvic ultrasound to look for cysts on your ovaries and check the thickness of your endometrium (the lining of your uterus, or womb).","May order blood tests, including tests to check your hormone levels.","What are the treatments for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?There is no cure for PCOS, but treatments can help you manage your symptoms. The treatments may include:","Lifestyle changes, which can help reduce many symptoms. They can also lower your risk for or help manage related health problems. These changes include:","Maintaining a healthy weight","Getting regular physical activity","Eating healthy foods"],"medical_scientific_name":"POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME DUE TO 17-KETOSTEROID REDUCTASE DEFICIENCY","basic_treatment_steps":["Medicines for acne. These medicines come in pills, creams, or gels.","Treatments for hair removal, such as facial hair removal creams, laser hair removal, and electrolysis.","Fertility treatments if you are having trouble getting pregnant. They include medicines and procedures such as in vitro fertilization (IVF)."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["The symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people have few or even no symptoms. They may not realize they have PCOS until they have trouble getting pregnant. Other people may have more severe symptoms."],"keywords":["polycystic","ovary","syndrome","common","polycysticovarysyndrome","polycystic ovary syndrome","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/polycysticovarysyndrome.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME DUE TO 17-KETOSTEROID REDUCTASE DEFICIENCY","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=POLYCYSTIC%20OVARY%20SYNDROME%20DUE%20TO%2017-KETOSTEROID%20REDUCTASE%20DEFICIENCY"},{"title":"PubMed – POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME DUE TO 17-KETOSTEROID REDUCTASE DEFICIENCY","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=POLYCYSTIC%20OVARY%20SYNDROME%20DUE%20TO%2017-KETOSTEROID%20REDUCTASE%20DEFICIENCY"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/polycysticovarysyndrome.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome"},{"id":"common-diseases-endometriosis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Endometriosis","answer":"There is no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments for the symptoms. Your provider will work with you to decide which treatments would be best for you.","detailed_information":"What are the treatments for endometriosis?There is no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments for the symptoms. Your provider will work with you to decide which treatments would be best for you.\nTreatments for endometriosis pain include:\n- Pain relievers, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen and a prescription medicine specifically for endometriosis. Providers may sometimes prescribe opioids for severe pain.\n- Hormone therapy, which stops the ovaries from making hormones. This may slow the growth of the endometrial tissue and may stop new areas from growing. Types of hormone therapy include:\n- Birth control pills.\n- Progestin therapy.\n- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) medicines (GnRH agonists and antagonists).  These medicines cause a temporary menopause.  After your stop taking the medicines, your menstrual periods will start again, and pregnancy is possible.\n- Surgical treatments for severe pain, including procedures to remove the endometriosis patches or cut some nerves in the pelvis. The surgery may be a laparoscopy or major surgery.\nTreatments for infertility caused by endometriosis include:\n- Laparoscopy to remove the endometriosis patches\n- In vitro fertilization\nNIH: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development","layman_term":"There is no cure for endometriosis, but there are treatments for the symptoms.","possible_causes":["You are at higher risk if:","You have a mother, sister, or daughter with endometriosis","Your period started before age 11","Your monthly cycles are short (less than 27 days)","Your menstrual cycles are heavy and last more than 7 days","You have a lower risk if:","You have been pregnant before","Your periods started late in adolescence","You breastfeed your babies"],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Endometriosis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Pelvic pain, which often happens during your period","Infertility","Other possible symptoms include:","Painful menstrual cramps, which may get worse over time","Pain during or after sex","Pain in the intestine or lower abdomen","Pain with bowel movements (pooping) or urination (peeing), usually during your period","Heavy periods","Spotting or bleeding between periods","Digestive or gastrointestinal symptoms","Fatigue or lack of energy"],"keywords":["endometriosis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Endometriosis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/endometriosis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Endometriosis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Endometriosis"},{"title":"PubMed – Endometriosis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Endometriosis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/endometriosis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Endometriosis"},{"id":"common-diseases-fibroids","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Fibroids","answer":"Uterine fibroids are the most common noncancerous (benign) tumors in women of childbearing age. You may have uterine fibroids and not even know it since they often don't cause any symptoms. Fibroids are made of muscle cells and other tissues that grow in and around the wall of the uterus, or womb. They can vary in number and size and grow as one tumor or in clusters.","detailed_information":"What are uterine fibroids?Uterine fibroids are the most common noncancerous (benign) tumors in women of childbearing age. You may have uterine fibroids and not even know it since they often don't cause any symptoms. Fibroids are made of muscle cells and other tissues that grow in and around the wall of the uterus, or womb. They can vary in number and size and grow as one tumor or in clusters.\nMany women with fibroids can get pregnant with no problems. However, some uterine fibroids could cause infertility (not being able to get pregnant), pregnancy loss, or problems with fetal development or delivery.\nWho is more likely to get uterine fibroids?If you're a female and the age when you're usually able to get pregnant and give birth, you could develop fibroids. Some factors may increase your risk of having uterine fibroids. These can include:\n- Age. Women who are older have a higher risk.\n- Race\/ethnicity. Black\/African American women often have fibroids at a younger age. They're also more likely to have larger fibroids with worse symptoms.\n- Family history. If your mother or sister had uterine fibroids.\n- Other factors. If you started your period before age 10 or have never been pregnant.\n- Certain medical conditions. These include obesity or vitamin D deficiency.\nYour risk of getting uterine fibroids lowers with each pregnancy and with long-term use of birth control pills or shots.","layman_term":"Uterine fibroids are the most common noncancerous (benign) tumors in women of childbearing age.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["Uterine fibroids might be very small, or in extreme cases, they may grow large enough to make it appear like a pregnancy.","What are the treatments for uterine fibroids?If you have no symptoms, you may not even need treatment. If you have symptoms, the treatment for uterine fibroids depends on many factors. These can include:","Your symptoms.","Your age. Sometimes fibroids shrink during and after menopause due to a drop in hormone levels.","The location, type, and size of fibroids.","If you are pregnant or want to get pregnant in the future.","NIH: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development"],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":["Uterine fibroids might be very small, or in extreme cases, they may grow large enough to make it appear like a pregnancy.","What are the treatments for uterine fibroids?If you have no symptoms, you may not even need treatment. If you have symptoms, the treatment for uterine fibroids depends on many factors. These can include:","Your symptoms.","Your age. Sometimes fibroids shrink during and after menopause due to a drop in hormone levels.","The location, type, and size of fibroids.","If you are pregnant or want to get pregnant in the future.","NIH: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Heavy or painful periods or bleeding between periods","Feeling \"full\" in the lower abdomen (belly)","Urinating (peeing) often","Pain during sex","Lower back pain","Problems getting pregnant, multiple miscarriages, or early labor while pregnant"],"keywords":["fibroids","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Uterine Fibroids","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/uterinefibroids.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Fibroids","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Fibroids"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/uterinefibroids.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Uterine Fibroids"},{"id":"common-diseases-vaginal-candidiasis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Vaginal Candidiasis","answer":"Candida is the scientific name for yeast. It is a fungus that lives almost everywhere, including in your body. Usually, your immune system keeps yeast under control. If you are sick or taking antibiotics, it can multiply and cause an infection.","detailed_information":"Candida is the scientific name for yeast. It is a fungus that lives almost everywhere, including in your body. Usually, your immune system keeps yeast under control. If you are sick or taking antibiotics, it can multiply and cause an infection.\nYeast infections affect different parts of the body in different ways:\n- Thrush is a yeast infection that causes white patches in your mouth\n- Candida esophagitis is thrush that spreads to your esophagus, the tube that takes food from your mouth to your stomach. It can make it hard or painful to swallow.\n- Women can get vaginal yeast infections, causing vaginitis\n- Yeast infections of the skin cause itching and rashes\n- Yeast infections in your bloodstream can be life-threatening\nAntifungal medicines get rid of yeast infections in most people. If you have a weak immune system, treatment might be more difficult.","layman_term":"Candida is the scientific name for yeast.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["vaginal","candidiasis","common","vaginalcandidiasis","vaginal candidiasis","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Yeast Infections","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/yeastinfections.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Vaginal Candidiasis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Vaginal%20Candidiasis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/yeastinfections.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Yeast Infections"},{"id":"common-diseases-bacterial-vaginosis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Bacterial Vaginosis","answer":"Vaginitis is common, especially in women in their reproductive years.  It usually happens when there is a change in the balance of bacteria or yeast that are normally found in your vagina. There are different types of vaginitis, and they have different causes, symptoms, and treatments.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Vaginitis is common, especially in women in their reproductive years.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["Ask you about your medical history","Do a pelvic exam","Look for vaginal discharge, noting its color, qualities, and any odor","Study a sample of your vaginal fluid under a microscope","In some cases, you may need more tests.","What are the treatments for vaginitis?The treatment depends on which type of vaginitis you have.","BV is treatable with antibiotics. You may get pills to swallow, or cream or gel that you put in your vagina. During treatment, you should use a condom during sex or not have sex at all."],"medical_scientific_name":"Bacterial vaginosis","basic_treatment_steps":["Do not douche or use vaginal sprays.","Use a latex condom when having sex. If your or your partner is allergic to latex, you can use polyurethane condoms.","Avoid clothes that hold in heat and moisture.","Wear cotton underwear."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["With BV, you may not have symptoms. You could have a thin white or gray vaginal discharge. There may be an odor, such as a strong fish-like odor, especially after sex."],"keywords":["bacterial","vaginosis","common","bacterialvaginosis","bacterial vaginosis","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Vaginitis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/vaginitis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Bacterial vaginosis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Bacterial%20vaginosis"},{"title":"PubMed – Bacterial vaginosis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Bacterial%20vaginosis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/vaginitis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Vaginitis"},{"id":"common-diseases-hemorrhagic-cystitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Hemorrhagic Cystitis","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Hemorrhagic cystitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["hemorrhagic","cystitis","common","hemorrhagiccystitis","hemorrhagic cystitis","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Hemorrhagic cystitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Hemorrhagic%20cystitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Hemorrhagic cystitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Hemorrhagic%20cystitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Hemorrhagic%20cystitis","source_label":"NLM ClinVar disease names"},{"id":"common-diseases-dehydration","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Dehydration","answer":"What is dehydration?Dehydration is a condition caused by the loss of too much fluid from the body. It happens when you are losing more fluids than you are taking in, and your body does not have enough fluids to work properly.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"What is dehydration?Dehydration is a condition caused by the loss of too much fluid from the body.","possible_causes":["Diarrhea","Vomiting","Sweating too much","Urinating too much, which can happen because of certain medicines and illnesses","Fever","Not drinking enough water or other fluids","Who is more likely to develop dehydration?Certain people are more likely to develop dehydration:","Older adults. Some people lose their sense of thirst as they age, so they don't drink enough fluids.","Infants and young children, who are more likely to have diarrhea or vomiting","People with chronic illnesses that cause them to urinate or sweat more often, such as diabetes, cystic fibrosis, or kidney problems","People who take medicines that cause them to urinate or sweat more","People who exercise or work outdoors during hot weather"],"treatment_overview":["Do a physical exam","Check your vital signs","Ask about your symptoms","Your provider may also order tests, such as:","Blood tests to check your kidney function.","Urine tests to check for dehydration and its cause."],"medical_scientific_name":"Dehydration","basic_treatment_steps":["Drink enough water every day. Each person's needs can be different, so ask your health care provider how much you should be drinking each day.","Avoid drinks that have sugar and caffeine.","Get extra fluids when you are sick. If you are having trouble keeping liquids down, you can try taking small sips of water or sucking on ice chips."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Feeling very thirsty","Dry mouth","Urinating and sweating less than usual","Dark-colored urine","Dry skin","Feeling tired","Dizziness"],"keywords":["dehydration","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Dehydration","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/dehydration.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Dehydration","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Dehydration"},{"title":"PubMed – Dehydration","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Dehydration"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/dehydration.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Dehydration"},{"id":"common-diseases-heat-exhaustion","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Heat Exhaustion","answer":"Your body normally cools itself by sweating.  During hot weather, especially when it is very humid, sweating just isn't enough to cool you off. Your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels and you can develop a heat illness.","detailed_information":"Your body normally cools itself by sweating.  During hot weather, especially when it is very humid, sweating just isn't enough to cool you off. Your body temperature can rise to dangerous levels and you can develop a heat illness.\nMost heat illnesses happen when you stay out in the heat too long. Exercising and working outside in high heat can also lead to heat illness. Older adults, young children, and those who are sick or overweight are most at risk. Taking certain medicines or drinking alcohol can also raise your risk.\nHeat-related illnesses include:\n- Heat stroke - a life-threatening illness in which body temperature may rise above 106 °F (41 °C) in minutes. Symptoms include dry skin, a rapid, strong pulse, dizziness, nausea, and confusion. If you see any of these signs, get medical help right away.","layman_term":"Your body normally cools itself by sweating.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["Heat cramps - muscle pains or spasms that happen during heavy exercise. You usually get them in your abdomen, arms, or legs.","Heat rash - skin irritation from excessive sweating. It is more common in young children."],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":["Heat cramps - muscle pains or spasms that happen during heavy exercise. You usually get them in your abdomen, arms, or legs.","Heat rash - skin irritation from excessive sweating. It is more common in young children."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["heat","exhaustion","common","heatexhaustion","heat exhaustion","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Heat Illness","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/heatillness.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Heat Exhaustion","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Heat%20Exhaustion"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/heatillness.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Heat Illness"},{"id":"common-diseases-motion-sickness","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Motion Sickness","answer":"Motion sickness is a common problem in people traveling by car, train, airplanes, and","detailed_information":"Motion sickness is a common problem in people traveling by car, train, airplanes, and\nespecially boats. Anyone can get it, but it is more common in children, pregnant women, and people taking certain medicines. Motion sickness can start suddenly, with a queasy feeling and cold sweats. It can then lead to dizziness and nausea and vomiting.\nYour brain senses movement by getting signals from your inner ears, eyes, muscles, and joints. When it gets signals that do not match, you can get motion sickness. For example, if you are reading on your phone while riding a bus, your eyes are focused on something that is not moving, but your inner ear senses motion.\nWhere you sit can make a difference. The front seat of a car, forward cars of a train, upper deck on a boat or wing seats in a plane may give you a smoother ride. Looking out into the distance - instead of trying to read or look at something in the vehicle - can also help.","layman_term":"Motion sickness is a common problem in people traveling by car, train, airplanes, and.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Motion sickness","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["motion","sickness","common","motionsickness","motion sickness","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Motion Sickness","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/motionsickness.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Motion sickness","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Motion%20sickness"},{"title":"PubMed – Motion sickness","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Motion%20sickness"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/motionsickness.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Motion Sickness"},{"id":"common-diseases-food-poisoning","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Food Poisoning","answer":"Each year, around 48 million people in the United States get sick from contaminated food. Common causes include bacteria and viruses. Less often, the cause may be a parasite or a harmful chemical, such as a high amount of pesticides. Symptoms of foodborne illness depend on the cause. They can be mild or serious. They usually include: - Upset stomach - Abdominal cramps - Nausea and vomiting - Diarrhea - Fever - Dehydration Most foodborne illnesses are acute. This means that they happen suddenly and last a short time. It takes several steps to get food from the farm or fishery to your dining table. Contamination can happen during any of these steps. For example, it can happen to: - Raw meat during slaughter - Fruits and vegetables when they are growing or when they are processed - Refrigerated foods when they are left on a loading dock in warm weather But it can also happen in your kitchen if you leave food out for more than 2 hours at room temperature. Handling food safely can help prevent foodborne illnesses. Most people with foodborne illness get better on their own. It is important to replace lost fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration. If your health care provider can diagnose the specific cause, you may get medicines such as antibiotics to treat it. For more serious illness, you may need treatment at a hospital. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Each year, around 48 million people in the United States get sick from contaminated food.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":["NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Upset stomach","Abdominal cramps","Nausea and vomiting","Diarrhea","Fever","Dehydration","Most foodborne illnesses are acute. This means that they happen suddenly and last a short time.","It takes several steps to get food from the farm or fishery to your dining table. Contamination can happen during any of these steps. For example, it can happen to:","Raw meat during slaughter","Fruits and vegetables when they are growing or when they are processed","Refrigerated foods when they are left on a loading dock in warm weather"],"keywords":["food","poisoning","common","foodpoisoning","food poisoning","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Foodborne Illness","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/foodborneillness.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Food Poisoning","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Food%20Poisoning"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/foodborneillness.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Foodborne Illness"},{"id":"common-diseases-lactose-intolerance","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Lactose Intolerance","answer":"Lactose intolerance means that you cannot digest foods with lactose in them. Lactose is the sugar found in milk and foods made with milk. After eating foods with lactose in them, you may feel sick to your stomach. You may also have:","detailed_information":"Lactose intolerance means that you cannot digest foods with lactose in them. Lactose is the sugar found in milk and foods made with milk. After eating foods with lactose in them, you may feel sick to your stomach. You may also have:\n- \tGas\n- \tDiarrhea\n- \tSwelling in your stomach\nYour doctor may do a blood, breath or stool test to find out if your problems are due to lactose intolerance.\nLactose intolerance is not serious.  Eating less food with lactose, or using pills or drops to help you digest lactose usually helps. You may need to take a calcium supplement if you don't get enough of it from your diet, since milk and foods made with milk are the most common source of calcium for most people.\nNIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases","layman_term":"Lactose intolerance means that you cannot digest foods with lactose in them.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Lactose intolerance","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["lactose","intolerance","common","lactoseintolerance","lactose intolerance","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Lactose Intolerance","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lactoseintolerance.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Lactose intolerance","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Lactose%20intolerance"},{"title":"PubMed – Lactose intolerance","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Lactose%20intolerance"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/lactoseintolerance.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Lactose Intolerance"},{"id":"common-diseases-celiac-disease","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Celiac Disease","answer":"Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where eating gluten triggers immune damage to the small intestine, leading to poor absorption of nutrients.","detailed_information":"Symptoms vary: diarrhea, bloating, weight loss, fatigue, anemia, mouth ulcers, or a blistering skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis). Some people have few obvious gut symptoms. Diagnosis uses blood tests (tissue transglutaminase IgA) and small-bowel biopsy while still eating gluten. Treatment is a strict lifelong gluten-free diet; accidental gluten causes intestinal injury. Untreated celiac increases risk of osteoporosis, infertility, lymphoma, and other autoimmune diseases.","layman_term":"Your immune system reacts to gluten and damages the gut lining, so food is not absorbed properly.","possible_causes":["Genetic predisposition (HLA-DQ2\/DQ8)","Gluten exposure in genetically susceptible people","Family history of celiac or autoimmune disease","Not caused by food poisoning alone"],"treatment_overview":["Strict gluten-free diet for life","Dietitian-guided nutrition and vitamin replacement if deficient","Screening for bone density and related autoimmune conditions","Follow-up blood tests to confirm healing"],"medical_scientific_name":"Celiac disease","basic_treatment_steps":["Read food labels carefully and avoid cross-contamination","Replace iron, B12, or vitamin D if deficient","Join support groups for gluten-free living","Inform restaurants and caregivers about dietary needs"],"first_aid_steps":["Seek urgent care for severe dehydration, persistent vomiting, or signs of bowel obstruction"],"symptoms":["Diarrhea or loose stools","Bloating and abdominal pain","Unintended weight loss","Fatigue and anemia","Mouth ulcers","Itchy blistering skin rash (dermatitis herpetiformis)"],"keywords":["celiac","disease","common","celiacdisease","celiac disease","common diseases","common_diseases","gluten","diarrhea","bloating","malabsorption","autoimmune"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Celiac Disease","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/celiacdisease.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Celiac disease","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Celiac%20disease"},{"title":"PubMed – Celiac disease","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Celiac%20disease"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/celiacdisease.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Celiac Disease"},{"id":"common-diseases-fatty-liver-disease","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Fatty Liver Disease","answer":"- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)","detailed_information":"What are the treatments for fatty liver disease?Doctors recommend weight loss for nonalcoholic fatty liver. Weight loss can reduce fat in the liver, inflammation, and fibrosis. If your doctor thinks that a certain medicine is the cause of your NAFLD, you should stop taking that medicine.  But check with your doctor before stopping the medicine. You may need to get off the medicine gradually, and you might need to switch to another medicine instead.\nThere are no medicines that have been approved to treat NAFLD. Studies are investigating whether a certain diabetes medicine or Vitamin E can help, but more studies are needed.\nThe most important part of treating alcohol-related fatty liver disease is to stop drinking alcohol. If you need help doing that, you may want to see a therapist or participate in an alcohol recovery program. There are also medicines that can help, either by reducing your cravings or making you feel sick if you drink alcohol.\nBoth alcoholic fatty liver disease and one type of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (nonalcoholic steatohepatitis) can lead to cirrhosis. Doctors can treat the health problems caused by cirrhosis with medicines, operations, and other medical procedures. If the cirrhosis leads to liver failure, you may need a liver transplant.\nWhat are some lifestyle changes that can help with fatty liver disease?If you have any of the types of fatty liver disease, there are some lifestyle changes that can help:\n- Eat a healthy diet, limiting salt and sugar, plus eating lots of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains\n- Get vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, the flu and pneumococcal disease. If you get hepatitis A or B along with fatty liver, it is more likely to lead to liver failure. People with chronic liver disease are more likely to get infections, so the other two vaccinations are also important.\n- Get regular exercise, which can help you lose weight and reduce fat in the liver\n- Talk with your doctor before using dietary supplements, such as vitamins, or any complementary or alternative medicines or medical practices. Some herbal remedies can damage your liver.","layman_term":"- Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).","possible_causes":["Have type 2 diabetes and prediabetes","Have obesity","Are middle aged or older (although children can also get it)","Are Hispanic, followed by non-Hispanic Whites. It is less common in African Americans.","Have high levels of fats in the blood, such as cholesterol and triglycerides","Have high blood pressure","Take certain drugs, such as corticosteroids and some cancer drugs","Have certain metabolic disorders, including metabolic syndrome","Have rapid weight loss","Have certain infections, such as hepatitis C","Have been exposed to some toxins"],"treatment_overview":["Your medical history","A physical exam","Various tests, including blood and imaging tests, and sometimes a biopsy","During the physical exam, your doctor will examine your body and check your weight and height. Your doctor will look for signs of fatty liver disease, such as:","An enlarged liver","Signs of cirrhosis, such as jaundice, a condition that causes your skin and whites of your eyes to turn yellow"],"medical_scientific_name":"Fatty liver disease, protection from","basic_treatment_steps":["Your medical history","A physical exam","Various tests, including blood and imaging tests, and sometimes a biopsy","During the physical exam, your doctor will examine your body and check your weight and height. Your doctor will look for signs of fatty liver disease, such as:","An enlarged liver","Signs of cirrhosis, such as jaundice, a condition that causes your skin and whites of your eyes to turn yellow"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["fatty","liver","disease","common","fattyliverdisease","fatty liver disease","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Fatty Liver Disease","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/fattyliverdisease.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Fatty liver disease, protection from","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Fatty%20liver%20disease%2C%20protection%20from"},{"title":"PubMed – Fatty liver disease, protection from","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Fatty%20liver%20disease%2C%20protection%20from"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/fattyliverdisease.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Fatty Liver Disease"},{"id":"common-diseases-gallstones","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Gallstones","answer":"Your gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ under your liver. It stores bile, a fluid made by your liver to digest fat. As your stomach and intestines digest food, your gallbladder releases bile through a tube called the common bile duct. The duct connects your gallbladder and liver to your small intestine.","detailed_information":"Your gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ under your liver. It stores bile, a fluid made by your liver to digest fat. As your stomach and intestines digest food, your gallbladder releases bile through a tube called the common bile duct. The duct connects your gallbladder and liver to your small intestine.\nYour gallbladder is most likely to give you trouble if something blocks the flow of bile through the bile ducts. That is usually a  gallstone. Gallstones form when substances in bile harden. Gallstone attacks usually happen after you eat. Signs of a gallstone attack may include nausea, vomiting, or pain in the abdomen, back, or just under the right arm.\nGallstones are most common among older adults, women, overweight people, Native Americans and Mexican Americans.\nGallstones are often found during imaging tests for other health conditions. If you do not have symptoms, you usually do not need treatment. The most common treatment is removal of the gallbladder. Fortunately, you can live without a gallbladder.  Bile has other ways to reach your small intestine.\nNIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases","layman_term":"Your gallbladder is a pear-shaped organ under your liver.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Gallstones","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["gallstones","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Gallstones","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/gallstones.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Gallstones","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Gallstones"},{"title":"PubMed – Gallstones","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Gallstones"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/gallstones.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Gallstones"},{"id":"common-diseases-pancreatitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Pancreatitis","answer":"The pancreas is a large gland behind the stomach and close to the first part of the small intestine. It secretes digestive juices into the small intestine through a tube called the pancreatic duct. The pancreas also releases the hormones insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream.","detailed_information":"The pancreas is a large gland behind the stomach and close to the first part of the small intestine. It secretes digestive juices into the small intestine through a tube called the pancreatic duct. The pancreas also releases the hormones insulin and glucagon into the bloodstream.\nPancreatitis is inflammation of the pancreas. It happens when digestive enzymes start digesting the pancreas itself. Pancreatitis can be acute or chronic. Either form is serious and can lead to complications.\nAcute pancreatitis occurs suddenly and usually goes away in a few days with treatment. It is often caused by gallstones.  Common symptoms are severe pain in the upper abdomen, nausea, and vomiting.   Treatment is usually a few days in the hospital for intravenous (IV) fluids, antibiotics, and medicines to relieve pain.\nChronic pancreatitis does not heal or improve. It gets worse over time and leads to permanent damage. The most common cause is heavy alcohol use. Other causes include cystic fibrosis and other inherited disorders, high levels of calcium or fats in the blood, some medicines, and autoimmune conditions. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and oily stools. Treatment may also be a few days in the hospital for intravenous (IV) fluids, medicines to relieve pain, and nutritional support. After that, you may need to start taking enzymes and eat a special diet.  It is also important to not smoke or drink alcohol.\nNIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases","layman_term":"The pancreas is a large gland behind the stomach and close to the first part of the small intestine.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Pancreatitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["pancreatitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Pancreatitis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/pancreatitis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Pancreatitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Pancreatitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Pancreatitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Pancreatitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/pancreatitis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Pancreatitis"},{"id":"common-diseases-diverticulitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Diverticulitis","answer":"What is diverticulosis?Diverticula are small pouches, or sacs, that bulge outward through weak spots in your colon. They mostly form in the lower part of the colon. Diverticulosis is a condition in which you have these pouches. Most people who have diverticulosis do not have symptoms or problems. But sometimes the pouches can cause symptoms or become inflamed. What is diverticulitis?Diverticulitis is the name for the condition you have when one or more of the pouches get inflamed. Diverticulitis may come on suddenly. It can sometimes cause serious health problems. What is diverticular disease?Diverticular disease is a condition that happens when the pouches cause: - Chronic (long-term) symptoms - Diverticular bleeding - Diverticulitis or diverticulitis complications","detailed_information":"- Blood tests\n- Stool tests\n- Imaging tests such as CT scan, ultrasound, or MRI\n- Colonoscopy\nWhat are the treatments for diverticulosis and diverticulitis?If your diverticulosis is causing chronic symptoms, your provider may recommend:\n- High-fiber foods or fiber supplements\n- Antibiotics\n- Medicines to reduce inflammation\n- Probiotics\nIf you have diverticulitis without complications, your provider may recommend treatment at home. However, you probably need treatment in the hospital if you have severe diverticulitis, diverticulitis with complications, or a high risk for complications.\nTreatments for diverticulitis may include:\n- Antibiotics, except for very mild cases.\n- A clear liquid diet for a short time to rest the colon. Your provider may suggest slowly adding solid foods to your diet as your symptoms improve.\n- Medicines for pain. This is usually acetaminophen instead of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs may increase the chance of diverticulitis complications.\n- Antispasmodic medicines to relieve spasms.\nIf your diverticulitis doesn't improve with treatment or if it causes complications, you may need surgery to remove part of your colon.","layman_term":"What is diverticulosis?Diverticula are small pouches, or sacs, that bulge outward through weak spots in your colon.","possible_causes":["Your genetics. Certain genes may make some people more likely to develop the conditions.","Lifestyle factors such as:","Diets low in fiber and high in red meat","Lack of physical activity","Taking certain medicines, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and steroids","Having obesity","Smoking"],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Diverticulitis","basic_treatment_steps":["Eating a diet high in fiber and low in red meat","Being physically active on a regular basis","Not smoking (and quitting smoking if you are a smoker)","Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight","NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Bloating","Constipation or diarrhea","Cramping or painin the lower abdomen (belly)","Diverticulitis may cause acute symptoms such as:","Abdominal pain, most often in the lower left side of your abdomen","Fevers and chills","Nausea or vomiting","The pain caused by diverticulitis is usually severe and comes on suddenly. Less often, the pain may be mild and worsen over several days.","People with diverticulitis can also develop serious problems such as:","Abscess, a painful, swollen, pus-filled area caused by infection","Fistula, an abnormal opening or passage between the colon and another part of the body, such as the bladder or vagina","Intestinal obstruction, a partial or total blockage that keeps food, fluids, air, or stool from moving through your intestines"],"keywords":["diverticulitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/diverticulosisanddiverticulitis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Diverticulitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Diverticulitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Diverticulitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Diverticulitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/diverticulosisanddiverticulitis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Diverticulosis and Diverticulitis"},{"id":"common-diseases-appendicitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Appendicitis","answer":"The appendix is a small, tube-like organ attached to the first part of the large intestine. It is located in the lower right part of the abdomen. It has no known function. A blockage inside of the appendix causes appendicitis. The blockage leads to increased pressure, problems with blood flow, and inflammation. If the blockage is not treated, the appendix can burst and spread infection into the abdomen. This causes a condition called peritonitis. The main symptom is pain in the abdomen, often on the right side. It is usually sudden and gets worse over time. Other symptoms may include: - Swelling in the abdomen - Loss of appetite - Nausea and vomiting - Constipation or diarrhea - Inability to pass gas - Low fever Not everyone with appendicitis has all these symptoms. Appendicitis is a medical emergency. Treatment almost always involves removing the appendix. Anyone can get appendicitis, but it is more common among people 10 to 30 years old. NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"The appendix is a small, tube-like organ attached to the first part of the large intestine.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["The main symptom is pain in the abdomen, often on the right side.  It is usually sudden and gets worse over time.  Other symptoms may include:","Swelling in the abdomen","Loss of appetite","Nausea and vomiting","Constipation or diarrhea","Inability to pass gas","Low fever","Not everyone with appendicitis has all these symptoms."],"medical_scientific_name":"Appendicitis","basic_treatment_steps":["The main symptom is pain in the abdomen, often on the right side.  It is usually sudden and gets worse over time.  Other symptoms may include:","Swelling in the abdomen","Loss of appetite","Nausea and vomiting","Constipation or diarrhea","Inability to pass gas","Low fever","Not everyone with appendicitis has all these symptoms."],"first_aid_steps":["NIH: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases"],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["appendicitis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Appendicitis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/appendicitis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Appendicitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Appendicitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Appendicitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Appendicitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/appendicitis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Appendicitis"},{"id":"common-diseases-hernia","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Hernia","answer":"A hernia happens when part of an internal organ or tissue bulges through a weak area of muscle. Most hernias are in the abdomen.","detailed_information":"A hernia happens when part of an internal organ or tissue bulges through a weak area of muscle. Most hernias are in the abdomen.\nThere are several types of hernias, including:\n-  Inguinal, in the groin. This is the the most common type.\n-  Umbilical, around the belly button\n-  Incisional, through a scar\n- Hiatal, a small opening in the diaphragm that allows the upper part of the stomach to move up into the chest.\n-  Congenital diaphragmatic, a birth defect that needs surgery\nHernias are common. They can affect men, women, and children.  A combination of muscle weakness and straining, such as with heavy lifting, might contribute. Some people are born with weak abdominal muscles and may be more likely to get a hernia.","layman_term":"A hernia happens when part of an internal organ or tissue bulges through a weak area of muscle.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Hernia","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["hernia","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Hernia","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hernia.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Hernia","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Hernia"},{"title":"PubMed – Hernia","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Hernia"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/hernia.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Hernia"},{"id":"common-diseases-varicose-veins","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Varicose Veins","answer":"Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the skin. They usually occur in the legs, but also can form in other parts of the body. Hemorrhoids are a type of varicose vein.","detailed_information":"Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the skin. They usually occur in the legs, but also can form in other parts of the body. Hemorrhoids are a type of varicose vein.\nYour veins have one-way valves that help keep blood flowing toward your heart. If the valves are weak or damaged, blood can back up and pool in your veins. This causes the veins to swell, which can lead to varicose veins.\nVaricose veins are very common. You are more at risk if you are older, are female, have obesity, don't exercise, or have a family history of varicose veins. They can also be more common in pregnancy.\nDoctors often diagnose varicose veins from a physical exam. Sometimes you may need additional tests.\nExercising, losing weight, elevating your legs when resting, and not crossing them when sitting can help keep varicose veins from getting worse. Wearing loose clothing and avoiding long periods of standing can also help. If varicose veins are painful or you don't like the way they look, your doctor may recommend procedures to remove them.\nNIH: National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute","layman_term":"Varicose veins are swollen, twisted veins that you can see just under the skin.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["varicose","veins","common","varicoseveins","varicose veins","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Varicose Veins","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/varicoseveins.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Varicose Veins","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Varicose%20Veins"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/varicoseveins.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Varicose Veins"},{"id":"common-diseases-deep-vein-thrombosis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Deep Vein Thrombosis","answer":"Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a blood clot that forms in a vein deep in the body. Most deep vein clots occur in the lower leg or thigh. If the vein swells, the condition is called thrombophlebitis. A deep vein thrombosis can break loose and cause a serious problem in the lung,  called a pulmonary embolism.","detailed_information":"Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a blood clot that forms in a vein deep in the body. Most deep vein clots occur in the lower leg or thigh. If the vein swells, the condition is called thrombophlebitis. A deep vein thrombosis can break loose and cause a serious problem in the lung,  called a pulmonary embolism.\nSitting still for a long time can make you more likely to get a DVT. Some medicines and disorders that increase your risk for blood clots can also lead to DVTs. Common symptoms are :\n-  Warmth and tenderness over the vein\n-  Pain or swelling in the part of the body affected\n-  Skin redness\nTreatment includes medicines to ease pain and inflammation, break up clots and keep new clots from forming. Keeping the affected area raised and applying moist heat can also help. If you are taking a long car or plane trip, take a break, walk or stretch your legs and drink plenty of liquids.","layman_term":"Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a blood clot that forms in a vein deep in the body.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Recurrent deep vein thrombosis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["deep","vein","thrombosis","common","deepveinthrombosis","deep vein thrombosis","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Deep Vein Thrombosis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/deepveinthrombosis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Recurrent deep vein thrombosis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Recurrent%20deep%20vein%20thrombosis"},{"title":"PubMed – Recurrent deep vein thrombosis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Recurrent%20deep%20vein%20thrombosis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/deepveinthrombosis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Deep Vein Thrombosis"},{"id":"common-diseases-peripheral-neuropathy","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Peripheral Neuropathy","answer":"Nerves are like wires that carry messages back and forth between your brain and your body. Your peripheral nerves branch off from your brain and spinal cord and connect to all parts of your body, including your muscles and organs. Peripheral nerves carry messages from your brain that control your movement, breathing, heartbeat, digestion, and more. They also carry messages from your body to your brain, so you can feel things, such as pain, heat, and cold.","detailed_information":"What are peripheral nerves?Nerves are like wires that carry messages back and forth between your brain and your body. Your peripheral nerves branch off from your brain and spinal cord and connect to all parts of your body, including your muscles and organs. Peripheral nerves carry messages from your brain that control your movement, breathing, heartbeat, digestion, and more. They also carry messages from your body to your brain, so you can feel things, such as pain, heat, and cold.\nWhat are peripheral nerve disorders?Peripheral nerve disorders happen when one or more peripheral nerves are damaged. Damaged nerves may not carry messages correctly, or they may not work at all. As a result, you may have pain, trouble walking, or a variety of other problems, depending on which nerves are involved.\nPeripheral nerve disorders are very common. There are more than 100 different types.","layman_term":"Nerves are like wires that carry messages back and forth between your brain and your body.","possible_causes":["Diabetes is the most common cause of peripheral nerve disorders. Most people with diabetes will develop diabetic nerve problems.","Health conditions, including:","Certain cancers and their treatment (chemotherapy and radiation therapy).","Infections, such as HIV and Lyme disease.","Problems with blood or blood vessels.","Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.","Kidney or liver disease.","Certain medicines.","Contact with certain toxic substances, such as lead or mercury.","Alcohol use disorder (AUD) and smoking.","Vitamin imbalances, especially a lack of vitamin B12.","Your genes, including changes in your genes or conditions that you inherit from your parents, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease."],"treatment_overview":["Ask about your medical history","Ask about your family health history","Do a physical exam","Order tests, which may include:","Blood tests","Genetic tests","Nerve tests that measure:","Electrical activity in your nerves and muscles","How well your autonomic nerves are working","A biopsy of nerve or skin tissue","CT or MRI scan to see what may be pressing on your nerves","What are the treatments for peripheral nerve disorders?It's important to treat any conditions that are causing nerve damage. In certain cases, that will allow your nerves to heal over time."],"medical_scientific_name":"Peripheral neuropathy","basic_treatment_steps":["Managing health conditions that may cause nerve damage, especially diabetes","Avoiding toxic substances","Being careful to avoid repeated motions and body positions that press on your nerves","Eating a balanced diet, exercising, limiting alcohol, and not smoking","NIH: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Problems with balance, walking, or using your arms and hands","Cramps or twitching muscles","Muscle shrinking","Sensory nerves carry messages to your brain from your senses, including touch, hot and cold, and pain.- Tingling, numbness, or pain often in the hands and feet","Not being able to feel heat, cold, or pain, such as a cut on your foot","Pain from even light touch","Autonomic nerves send messages to your organs to control breathing, digestion, and other body functions that happen without thinking about them.- A heartbeat that's too fast or too slow","Trouble swallowing","Sweating too much or too little","Vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation","Problems with urination or sexual function","Symptoms may range from mild to very strong. They may develop quickly over days or slowly over months and years. But they are rarely life-threatening."],"keywords":["peripheral","neuropathy","common","peripheralneuropathy","peripheral neuropathy","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Peripheral Nerve Disorders","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/peripheralnervedisorders.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Peripheral neuropathy","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Peripheral%20neuropathy"},{"title":"PubMed – Peripheral neuropathy","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Peripheral%20neuropathy"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/peripheralnervedisorders.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Peripheral Nerve Disorders"},{"id":"common-diseases-carpal-tunnel-syndrome","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Carpal Tunnel Syndrome","answer":"The carpal tunnel is a narrow opening between the bones in your wrist and the ligament that holds them together.  A nerve, called the median nerve, runs from your lower arm through the carpal tunnel and into your hand. This nerve provides feeling to your thumb and first three fingers.  It also helps you move your thumb.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"The carpal tunnel is a narrow opening between the bones in your wrist and the ligament that holds them together.","possible_causes":["Injury to your wrist that causes swelling, such as a sprain or broken bone","Health conditions that can affect your nerves, joints, or other parts of your wrist, for example:","Diabetes.","Rheumatoid arthritis.","A cyst or tumor in your wrist.","Changes in  certain hormones, which may cause swelling from extra fluid in your body. Examples include an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), pregnancy and menopause.","Problems with the way your wrist is formed.","Doing the same wrist and hand movements over and over, such as:","Assembly line work.","Carpentry or using tools that vibrate.","Knitting, gardening, or sports, such as golf.","Researchers aren't sure whether long-term typing or computer use leads to carpal tunnel syndrome."],"treatment_overview":["Ask about your medical history","Ask about your family health history","Do a physical exam","Order tests if needed, such as:","Lab tests to look for diseases that may damage nerves","X-rays to look for broken bones or arthritis","Tests to measure the electrical activity in your nerves and muscles","Ultrasound to check the nerve in the carpal tunnel","Wrist splints (usually worn at night).","Rest.","Medicines to reduce swelling and pain:","Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium."],"medical_scientific_name":"Carpal tunnel syndrome","basic_treatment_steps":["Use good posture to keep your wrists in a natural position.","Keep your hands warm to keep your muscles flexible. Fingerless gloves may help.","Take work breaks and vary your tasks.","Stretch and exercise your hands and wrists.","Organize your workspace and tools to reduce strain on your hands and wrists."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["In the early stages, symptoms usually:","Start slowly in your dominant hand (the one you write with)","Happen at night if you sleep with your wrists bent","As symptoms get worse, you may notice:","Tingling, pain, or weakness with certain activities, such as driving or holding a phone","Difficulty grasping or holding small things","Feeling like your fingers are swollen when they're not"],"keywords":["carpal","tunnel","syndrome","common","carpaltunnelsyndrome","carpal tunnel syndrome","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/carpaltunnelsyndrome.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Carpal tunnel syndrome","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Carpal%20tunnel%20syndrome"},{"title":"PubMed – Carpal tunnel syndrome","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Carpal%20tunnel%20syndrome"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/carpaltunnelsyndrome.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Carpal Tunnel Syndrome"},{"id":"common-diseases-plantar-fasciitis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Plantar Fasciitis","answer":"Heel problems are common and can be painful. Often, they result from too much stress on your heel bone and the tissues that surround it. That stress can come from:","detailed_information":"Heel problems are common and can be painful. Often, they result from too much stress on your heel bone and the tissues that surround it. That stress can come from:\n- Injuries\n- Bruises that you get walking, running or jumping\n- Wearing shoes that don't fit or aren't made well\n- Being overweight\nThese can lead to tendinitis, bursitis, and fasciitis, which are all types of inflammation of the tissues that surround your heel. Over time the stress can cause bone spurs and deformities. Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout, can also lead to heel problems. Treatments for heel problems might include rest, medicines, exercises, taping, and special shoes. Surgery is rarely needed.","layman_term":"Heel problems are common and can be painful.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Plantar fasciitis","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["plantar","fasciitis","common","plantarfasciitis","plantar fasciitis","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Heel Injuries and Disorders","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/heelinjuriesanddisorders.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Plantar fasciitis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Plantar%20fasciitis"},{"title":"PubMed – Plantar fasciitis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Plantar%20fasciitis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/heelinjuriesanddisorders.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Heel Injuries and Disorders"},{"id":"common-diseases-sprain","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Sprain","answer":"A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament. Ligaments are tissues that connect bones at a joint. Falling, twisting, or getting hit can all cause a sprain. Ankle and wrist sprains are common. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and being unable to move your joint. You might feel a pop or tear when the injury happens.","detailed_information":"A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament. Ligaments are tissues that connect bones at a joint. Falling, twisting, or getting hit can all cause a sprain. Ankle and wrist sprains are common. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and being unable to move your joint. You might feel a pop or tear when the injury happens.\nA strain is a stretched or torn muscle or tendon. Tendons are tissues that connect muscle to bone. Twisting or pulling these tissues can cause a strain. Strains can happen suddenly or develop over time. Back and hamstring muscle strains are common. Many people get strains playing sports. Symptoms include pain, muscle spasms, swelling, and trouble moving the muscle.\nAt first, treatment of both sprains and strains usually involves resting the injured area, icing it, wearing a bandage or device that compresses the area, and medicines. Later treatment might include exercise and physical therapy.\nNIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases","layman_term":"A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["sprain","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Sprains and Strains","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sprainsandstrains.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Sprain","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Sprain"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sprainsandstrains.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Sprains and Strains"},{"id":"common-diseases-strain","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Strain","answer":"A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament. Ligaments are tissues that connect bones at a joint. Falling, twisting, or getting hit can all cause a sprain. Ankle and wrist sprains are common. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and being unable to move your joint. You might feel a pop or tear when the injury happens.","detailed_information":"A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament. Ligaments are tissues that connect bones at a joint. Falling, twisting, or getting hit can all cause a sprain. Ankle and wrist sprains are common. Symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, and being unable to move your joint. You might feel a pop or tear when the injury happens.\nA strain is a stretched or torn muscle or tendon. Tendons are tissues that connect muscle to bone. Twisting or pulling these tissues can cause a strain. Strains can happen suddenly or develop over time. Back and hamstring muscle strains are common. Many people get strains playing sports. Symptoms include pain, muscle spasms, swelling, and trouble moving the muscle.\nAt first, treatment of both sprains and strains usually involves resting the injured area, icing it, wearing a bandage or device that compresses the area, and medicines. Later treatment might include exercise and physical therapy.\nNIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases","layman_term":"A sprain is a stretched or torn ligament.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["strain","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Sprains and Strains","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sprainsandstrains.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Strain","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Strain"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sprainsandstrains.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Sprains and Strains"},{"id":"common-diseases-contusion","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Contusion","answer":"A bruise is a mark on your skin caused by blood trapped under the surface. It happens when an injury crushes small blood vessels but does not break the skin. Those vessels break open and leak blood under the skin.","detailed_information":"A bruise is a mark on your skin caused by blood trapped under the surface. It happens when an injury crushes small blood vessels but does not break the skin. Those vessels break open and leak blood under the skin.\nBruises are often painful and swollen. You can get skin, muscle and bone bruises. Bone bruises are the most serious.\nIt can take months for a bruise to fade, but most last about two weeks. They start off a reddish color, and then turn bluish-purple and greenish-yellow before returning to normal. To reduce bruising, ice the injured area and elevate it above your heart. See your health care provider if you seem to bruise for no reason, or if the bruise appears to be infected.","layman_term":"A bruise is a mark on your skin caused by blood trapped under the surface.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Cerebral contusion","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["contusion","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Bruises","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/bruises.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Cerebral contusion","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Cerebral%20contusion"},{"title":"PubMed – Cerebral contusion","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Cerebral%20contusion"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/bruises.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Bruises"},{"id":"common-diseases-sunburn","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Sunburn","answer":"Ultraviolet (UV) rays are an invisible form of radiation. They can pass through your skin and damage your skin cells. Sunburns are a sign of skin damage. Suntans aren't healthy, either. They appear after the sun's rays have already killed some cells and damaged others. UV rays can cause skin damage during any season or at any temperature. They can also cause eye problems, wrinkles, skin spots, and skin cancer. To protect yourself : - Stay out of the sun when it is strongest (between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.) - Use sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher - Wear protective clothing - Wear wraparound sunglasses that provide 100% UV ray protection - Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds Check your skin regularly for changes in the size, shape, color, or feel of birthmarks, moles, and spots. Such changes are a sign of skin cancer. Food and Drug Administration","detailed_information":"Ultraviolet (UV) rays are an invisible form of radiation. They can pass through your skin and damage your skin cells. Sunburns are a sign of skin damage. Suntans aren't healthy, either. They appear after the sun's rays have already killed some cells and damaged others. UV rays can cause skin damage during any season or at any temperature.  They can also cause eye problems, wrinkles, skin spots, and skin cancer.\nTo protect yourself :\n- \tStay out of the sun when it is strongest (between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.)\n- \tUse sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher\n- \tWear protective clothing\n- \tWear wraparound sunglasses that provide 100% UV ray protection\n- \tAvoid sunlamps and tanning beds\nCheck your skin regularly for changes in the size, shape, color, or feel of birthmarks, moles, and spots. Such changes are a sign of skin cancer.\nFood and Drug Administration","layman_term":"Ultraviolet (UV) rays are an invisible form of radiation.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Sunburn","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["sunburn","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Sun Exposure","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sunexposure.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Sunburn","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Sunburn"},{"title":"PubMed – Sunburn","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Sunburn"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sunexposure.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Sun Exposure"},{"id":"common-diseases-insect-bite-reaction","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Insect Bite Reaction","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["insect","bite","reaction","common","insectbitereaction","insect bite reaction","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"PubMed – Insect Bite Reaction","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Insect%20Bite%20Reaction"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Insect%20Bite%20Reaction","source_label":"NIH \/ NLM medical references"},{"id":"common-diseases-seasonal-allergy","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Seasonal Allergy","answer":"An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing. Substances that often cause reactions are:","detailed_information":"An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing. Substances that often cause reactions are:\n- Pollen\n- Dust mites\n- Mold spores\n- Pet dander\n- Food\n- Insect stings\n- Medicines\nNormally, your immune system fights germs. It is your body's defense system. In most allergic reactions, however, it is responding to a false alarm. Genes and the environment probably both play a role.\nAllergies can cause a variety of symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, itching, rashes, swelling, or asthma. Allergies can range from minor to severe.  Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can be life-threatening.   Doctors use skin and blood tests to diagnose allergies. Treatments include medicines, allergy shots, and avoiding the substances that cause the reactions.","layman_term":"An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Seasonal allergy","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["seasonal","allergy","common","seasonalallergy","seasonal allergy","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Allergy","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/allergy.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Seasonal allergy","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Seasonal%20allergy"},{"title":"PubMed – Seasonal allergy","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Seasonal%20allergy"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/allergy.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Allergy"},{"id":"common-diseases-dust-mite-allergy","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Dust Mite Allergy","answer":"An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing. Substances that often cause reactions are:","detailed_information":"An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing. Substances that often cause reactions are:\n- Pollen\n- Dust mites\n- Mold spores\n- Pet dander\n- Food\n- Insect stings\n- Medicines\nNormally, your immune system fights germs. It is your body's defense system. In most allergic reactions, however, it is responding to a false alarm. Genes and the environment probably both play a role.\nAllergies can cause a variety of symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, itching, rashes, swelling, or asthma. Allergies can range from minor to severe.  Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can be life-threatening.   Doctors use skin and blood tests to diagnose allergies. Treatments include medicines, allergy shots, and avoiding the substances that cause the reactions.","layman_term":"An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Dust mite allergy","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["dust","mite","allergy","common","dustmiteallergy","dust mite allergy","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Allergy","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/allergy.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Dust mite allergy","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Dust%20mite%20allergy"},{"title":"PubMed – Dust mite allergy","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Dust%20mite%20allergy"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/allergy.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Allergy"},{"id":"common-diseases-pet-allergy","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Pet Allergy","answer":"An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing. Substances that often cause reactions are:","detailed_information":"An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing. Substances that often cause reactions are:\n- Pollen\n- Dust mites\n- Mold spores\n- Pet dander\n- Food\n- Insect stings\n- Medicines\nNormally, your immune system fights germs. It is your body's defense system. In most allergic reactions, however, it is responding to a false alarm. Genes and the environment probably both play a role.\nAllergies can cause a variety of symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, itching, rashes, swelling, or asthma. Allergies can range from minor to severe.  Anaphylaxis is a severe reaction that can be life-threatening.   Doctors use skin and blood tests to diagnose allergies. Treatments include medicines, allergy shots, and avoiding the substances that cause the reactions.","layman_term":"An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["pet","allergy","common","petallergy","pet allergy","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Allergy","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/allergy.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Pet Allergy","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Pet%20Allergy"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/allergy.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Allergy"},{"id":"common-diseases-drug-allergy","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Drug Allergy","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Drug allergy","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["drug","allergy","common","drugallergy","drug allergy","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Drug allergy","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Drug%20allergy"},{"title":"PubMed – Drug allergy","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Drug%20allergy"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Drug%20allergy","source_label":"NLM ClinVar disease names"},{"id":"common-diseases-nicotine-dependence","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Nicotine Dependence","answer":"There's no way around it; smoking is bad for your health. It harms nearly every organ of the body, even some that you would not expect. Cigarette smoking causes many cancers and other health problems. It is also the cause of nearly one in five deaths in the United States.","detailed_information":"What are the health effects of smoking?There's no way around it; smoking is bad for your health. It harms nearly every organ of the body, even some that you would not expect. Cigarette smoking causes many cancers and other health problems. It is also the cause of nearly one in five deaths in the United States.\nSome of the many health problems that smoking can cause include:\n- Cancers. Smoking is the most common cause of lung and oral cancers. But it can also cause cancer in many other parts of your body, such as in your larynx (voice box), esophagus, throat, bladder, kidney, liver, stomach, pancreas, colon and rectum, and cervix. It can also cause acute myeloid leukemia (AML).\n- Lung diseases. Smoking is the most common cause of COPD. It can also worsen asthma and raise your risk of pneumonia.\n- Cardiovascular diseases.  Smoking can damage your blood vessels and make them thicken and grow narrower. This makes your heart  beat faster and raises your blood pressure. Smoking also increases your risk of blood clots and stroke.\n- Vision problems. Smoking can raise your risk of  cataracts and cause macular degeneration (AMD).\nYou have a greater chance of certain pregnancy problems if you smoke while pregnant.   Your baby is also at higher risk of dying of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).\nSmoking also causes addiction to nicotine, a stimulant drug that is in tobacco. Nicotine addiction makes it much harder for people to quit smoking.\nWhat are the health risks of secondhand smoke?Your smoke is also bad for other people. If they breathe in your secondhand smoke, they can get many of the same problems as smokers do. These problems can include heart disease and lung cancer. Children exposed to secondhand smoke have a higher risk of ear infections, colds, pneumonia, bronchitis, and more severe asthma. If you breathe secondhand smoke while pregnant, you're more likely to have preterm labor and a baby with low birth weight.\nAre other forms of tobacco also dangerous?Besides cigarettes, there are several other forms of tobacco. Some people smoke tobacco in cigars and water pipes (hookahs). These forms of tobacco also contain harmful chemicals and nicotine. Some cigars contain as much tobacco as an entire pack of cigarettes.\nE-cigarettes often look like cigarettes, but they work differently. They are battery-operated smoking devices. Using an e-cigarette is called vaping. Researchers still have a lot to learn about the health effects of using e-cigarettes. We do know that they contain nicotine, which is highly addictive and a health danger to you and your fetus if you are pregnant, children, and teens. And e-cigarettes also expose non-smokers to secondhand aerosols (rather than secondhand smoke), which contain harmful chemicals.\nSmokeless tobacco, such as chewing tobacco and snuff, is also bad for your health. Smokeless tobacco can cause certain cancers, including oral cancer. It also increases your risk of getting heart disease, gum disease, and oral lesions.\nWhy should I quit?Remember, there is no safe level of tobacco use. Smoking even just one cigarette per day over a lifetime can cause smoking-related cancers and premature death. Quitting smoking can reduce your risk of health problems and add years to your life. The earlier you quit, the greater the benefit. Some immediate benefits of quitting include:\n- Lower heart rate and blood pressure\n- Less carbon monoxide in the blood (carbon monoxide reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen)\n- Better circulation\n- Less coughing and wheezing\nQuitting smoking can be challenging, but it is so important for your health. Contact your health care provider if you need help quitting.","layman_term":"There's no way around it; smoking is bad for your health.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Nicotine dependence","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["nicotine","dependence","common","nicotinedependence","nicotine dependence","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Smoking","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/smoking.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Nicotine dependence","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Nicotine%20dependence"},{"title":"PubMed – Nicotine dependence","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Nicotine%20dependence"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/smoking.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Smoking"},{"id":"common-diseases-alcohol-use-disorder","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Alcohol Use Disorder","answer":"AUD can range from mild to severe, depending on the symptoms. Severe AUD is sometimes called alcoholism or alcohol dependence.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"AUD can range from mild to severe, depending on the symptoms.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["alcohol","use","disorder","common","alcoholusedisorder","alcohol use disorder","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/alcoholusedisorderaud.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Alcohol Use Disorder","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Alcohol%20Use%20Disorder"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/alcoholusedisorderaud.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)"},{"id":"common-diseases-chronic-fatigue","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Chronic Fatigue","answer":"What is myalgic encephalomyelitis\/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME\/CFS)?Myalgic encephalomyelitis\/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME\/CFS) is a serious, long-term illness that affects many body systems. Another name for it is chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). ME\/CFS can often make you unable to do your usual activities. Sometimes you may not even be able to get out of bed.","detailed_information":"- Problems with thinking and memory.\n- Worsening of symptoms while standing or sitting upright. This is called orthostatic intolerance. It can cause you to feel lightheaded, dizzy, weak, or faint while standing or sitting up.\nSome of the other symptoms that ME\/CFS can cause include:\n- Pain, including muscle pain, joint pain, and headaches\n- Sore throat\n- Tender lymph nodes (glands) in the neck or armpits\n- Digestive issues, like irritable bowel syndrome\n- Chills and night sweats\n- Allergies and sensitivities to foods, odors, chemicals, light, or noise\nME\/CFS can be unpredictable. Your symptoms may come and go. They may change over time; sometimes they might get better, and other times they may get worse.","layman_term":"What is myalgic encephalomyelitis\/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME\/CFS)?Myalgic encephalomyelitis\/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME\/CFS) is a serious, long-term illness that affects many body systems.","possible_causes":["Researchers are studying many possible causes, including:","Infections","Immune system changes","Physical or emotional stress","Changes in the way cells in the body get their energy","Genetics; the illness can sometimes run in families"],"treatment_overview":["Your provider will do a thorough medical exam, which will include:","Asking about your medical history and your family's medical history.","Asking about your current illness, including your symptoms.  Some questions they may ask could include how often you have symptoms, how bad they are, how long they have lasted, and how they affect your life.","Thorough physical and mental status exams.","Blood, urine, or other tests to check for other illnesses which could be causing your symptoms.","Your provider may also ask you to see a specialist to check for other conditions which can cause similar symptoms.","What are the treatments for myalgic encephalomyelitis\/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME\/CFS)?There is no cure or approved treatment for ME\/CFS, but you may be able to treat or manage some of your symptoms.","Strategies such as learning new ways to manage activity can also be helpful. You need to make sure that you do not \"push and crash.\" This can happen when you feel better, do too much, and then get worse again.","When you have ME\/CFS, it can be hard to help develop a treatment plan. It can also be difficult to  try to take care of yourself.  So it's important that you have support from family members and friends.","There are also various resources and strategies that might be helpful to you, such as:","Getting counseling to help you cope with the illness and its impact on your life.","Eating a healthy diet."],"medical_scientific_name":"Chronic fatigue","basic_treatment_steps":["Your provider will do a thorough medical exam, which will include:","Asking about your medical history and your family's medical history.","Asking about your current illness, including your symptoms.  Some questions they may ask could include how often you have symptoms, how bad they are, how long they have lasted, and how they affect your life.","Thorough physical and mental status exams.","Blood, urine, or other tests to check for other illnesses which could be causing your symptoms.","Your provider may also ask you to see a specialist to check for other conditions which can cause similar symptoms.","What are the treatments for myalgic encephalomyelitis\/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME\/CFS)?There is no cure or approved treatment for ME\/CFS, but you may be able to treat or manage some of your symptoms.","Strategies such as learning new ways to manage activity can also be helpful. You need to make sure that you do not \"push and crash.\" This can happen when you feel better, do too much, and then get worse again.","When you have ME\/CFS, it can be hard to help develop a treatment plan. It can also be difficult to  try to take care of yourself.  So it's important that you have support from family members and friends.","There are also various resources and strategies that might be helpful to you, such as:","Getting counseling to help you cope with the illness and its impact on your life.","Eating a healthy diet."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":["Not being able to do activities that you used to do before the illness, along with severe fatigue. The fatigue must last six months or longer, and it is not improved by rest.","Post-exertional malaise (PEM), which means that your symptoms get worse after any physical or mental activity.","Sleep problems."],"keywords":["chronic","fatigue","common","chronicfatigue","chronic fatigue","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Myalgic Encephalomyelitis\/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/myalgicencephalomyelitischronicfatiguesyndrome.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Chronic fatigue","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Chronic%20fatigue"},{"title":"PubMed – Chronic fatigue","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Chronic%20fatigue"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/myalgicencephalomyelitischronicfatiguesyndrome.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Myalgic Encephalomyelitis\/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome"},{"id":"common-diseases-vitamin-b12-deficiency","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Vitamin B12 Deficiency","answer":"The B vitamins are: - B1 (thiamine) - B2 (riboflavin) - B3 (niacin) - B5 (pantothenic acid) - B6 - B7 (biotin) - B12 - Folic acid These vitamins help the process your body uses to get or make energy from the food you eat. They also help form red blood cells. You can get B vitamins from proteins such as fish, poultry, meat, eggs, and dairy products. Leafy green vegetables, beans, and peas also have B vitamins. Many cereals and some breads have added B vitamins. Not getting enough of certain B vitamins can cause diseases. A lack of B12 or B6 can cause anemia.","detailed_information":"The B vitamins are:\n- B1 (thiamine)\n- B2 (riboflavin)\n- B3 (niacin)\n- B5 (pantothenic acid)\n- B6\n- \tB7 (biotin)\n- B12\n- Folic acid\nThese vitamins help the process your body uses to get or make energy from the food you eat. They also help form red blood cells.  You can get B vitamins from proteins such as fish, poultry, meat, eggs, and dairy products.  Leafy green vegetables, beans, and peas also have B vitamins.  Many cereals and some breads have added B vitamins.\nNot getting enough of certain B vitamins can cause diseases.  A lack of B12 or B6 can cause anemia.","layman_term":"The B vitamins are: - B1 (thiamine) - B2 (riboflavin) - B3 (niacin) - B5 (pantothenic acid) - B6 - B7 (biotin) - B12 - Folic acid These vitamins help the process your body uses to get or make energy from the food you eat.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["vitamin","b12","deficiency","common","vitaminb12deficiency","vitamin b12 deficiency","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – B Vitamins","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/bvitamins.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Vitamin B12 Deficiency","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Vitamin%20B12%20Deficiency"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/bvitamins.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – B Vitamins"},{"id":"common-diseases-folate-deficiency","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Folate Deficiency","answer":"Folic acid is a B vitamin. It helps the body make healthy new cells. Everyone needs folic acid. For women who may get pregnant, it is really important. Getting enough folic acid before and during pregnancy can prevent major birth defects of her baby's brain or spine. Foods with folic acid in them include: - Leafy green vegetables - Fruits - Dried beans, peas, and nuts - Enriched breads, cereals and other grain products If you don't get enough folic acid from the foods you eat, you can also take it as a dietary supplement. NIH: National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Folic acid is a B vitamin.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Folate deficiency in CSF","basic_treatment_steps":["Foods with folic acid in them include:","Leafy green vegetables","Fruits","Dried beans, peas, and nuts","Enriched breads, cereals and other grain products","If you don't get enough folic acid from the foods you eat, you can also take it as a dietary supplement.","NIH: National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["folate","deficiency","common","folatedeficiency","folate deficiency","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Folic Acid","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/folicacid.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Folate deficiency in CSF","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Folate%20deficiency%20in%20CSF"},{"title":"PubMed – Folate deficiency in CSF","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Folate%20deficiency%20in%20CSF"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/folicacid.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Folic Acid"},{"id":"common-diseases-osteopenia","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Osteopenia","answer":"Losing bone density can weaken your bones. In some cases, it can lead to osteoporosis. This is a disease which can make your bones more likely to break. Low bone density that is not low enough to be osteoporosis is sometimes called osteopenia.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Losing bone density can weaken your bones.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Osteopenia","basic_treatment_steps":["NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["osteopenia","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Bone Density","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/bonedensity.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Osteopenia","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Osteopenia"},{"title":"PubMed – Osteopenia","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Osteopenia"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/bonedensity.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Bone Density"},{"id":"common-diseases-osteoporosis","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Osteoporosis","answer":"Osteoporosis is called a \"silent\" disease because it doesn't usually cause symptoms. You may not even know you have the disease until you break a bone. This could happen with any bone, but it's most common in the bones of your hip, vertebrae in the spine, and wrist.","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"Osteoporosis is called a \"silent\" disease because it doesn't usually cause symptoms.","possible_causes":["Who is more likely to develop osteoporosis?Anyone can develop osteoporosis, but you are more likely to develop it if you have one or more risk factors:","Your sex. Osteoporosis is more common in women, especially after menopause (postmenopausal).","Your age. Your risk increases as you get older. It is most common in people over age 50.","Your body size. It is more common in people who are slim and thin boned.","Your race:- White and Asian women are at highest risk.","African American and Mexican American women have a lower risk.","White men are at higher risk than African American and Mexican American men.","Family history. Your risk of osteoporosis may be higher if one of your parents has osteoporosis or broke their hip.","Changes to hormones. Low levels of certain hormones can increase your chance of developing osteoporosis.","Diet. A diet that is low in calcium and\/or vitamin D or does not include enough protein can raise your risk.","Long-term use of certain medicines, such as:","Corticosteroids"],"treatment_overview":["Women age 65 and older","Postmenopausal women under age 65 who have factors that increase the chance of developing osteoporosis","For men, it isn't clear yet whether regular screening is helpful. More research is needed to know for sure.","To find out if you have osteoporosis, your provider:","Will ask about your medical history and whether you have ever broken a bone","May do a physical exam, which could include checking for:","A loss of height and\/or weight","Changes in your posture","Balance and gait (the way you walk)","Your muscle strength","Will likely order a bone density scan","May do a fracture risk assessment, which is a short questionnaire that helps estimate your risk of breaking a bone in the next 10 years"],"medical_scientific_name":"Osteoporosis","basic_treatment_steps":["A healthy, balanced diet that includes enough calcium, vitamin D, and protein","Lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and limiting alcohol","Regular physical activity including weight-bearing exercise (like walking), strength training, and balance exercises","NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["osteoporosis","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Osteoporosis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/osteoporosis.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Osteoporosis","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Osteoporosis"},{"title":"PubMed – Osteoporosis","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Osteoporosis"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/osteoporosis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Osteoporosis"},{"id":"common-diseases-parkinson-disease","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Parkinson Disease","answer":"Parkinson disease is a progressive brain disorder that affects movement control. It happens when nerve cells in the brain that make dopamine become damaged or die, leading to tremor, stiffness, and slowed movements.","detailed_information":"Common motor symptoms include resting tremor (often in one hand), muscle rigidity, slowness of movement (bradykinesia), and balance problems. Non-motor symptoms may include sleep disturbance, constipation, low mood, loss of smell, and cognitive changes in later stages. Most cases are idiopathic (no single known cause), but age, certain genes, and environmental factors may contribute. Diagnosis is clinical, based on history and neurological exam; brain imaging may be used to rule out other causes. Treatment focuses on symptom control with medicines (such as levodopa and dopamine agonists), physical\/occupational\/speech therapy, and advanced options (deep brain stimulation) in selected patients.","layman_term":"A long-term brain condition that gradually makes movement harder—often starting with shaking, stiffness, or slower walking.","possible_causes":["Loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra","Age-related risk and possible genetic susceptibility","Environmental exposures (research ongoing)","Not caused by a single infection or diet factor"],"treatment_overview":["Medication to replace or mimic dopamine effects","Physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy","Regular neurologist follow-up and medication adjustment","Advanced therapies (e.g., deep brain stimulation) when appropriate"],"medical_scientific_name":"Parkinson disease","basic_treatment_steps":["Take prescribed medicines on schedule; do not stop suddenly without medical advice","Stay active with safe balance exercises","Use home safety measures (rails, clear walkways)","Track symptom changes for clinic visits"],"first_aid_steps":["Call emergency services for sudden severe confusion, chest pain, breathing difficulty, or falls with head injury","Seek urgent care for sudden inability to move, speak, or facial droop (possible stroke)"],"symptoms":["Resting tremor (often in one hand)","Muscle rigidity and stiffness","Slowed movement (bradykinesia)","Shuffling gait or reduced arm swing when walking","Balance problems and falls","Reduced facial expression (masked face)","Soft or monotone speech","Small handwriting (micrographia)","Stooped posture","Sleep disturbance","Constipation","Loss of smell","Low mood or anxiety","Cognitive changes in later stages"],"keywords":["parkinson","disease","common","parkinsondisease","parkinson disease","common diseases","common_diseases","parkinsons","tremor","bradykinesia","movement","dopamine","neurology"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Parkinson's Disease","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/parkinsonsdisease.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Parkinson disease","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Parkinson%20disease"},{"title":"PubMed – Parkinson disease","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Parkinson%20disease"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/parkinsonsdisease.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Parkinson's Disease"},{"id":"common-diseases-alzheimer-disease","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Alzheimer Disease","answer":"Alzheimer disease is the most common cause of dementia—a progressive brain disorder that gradually destroys memory, thinking, language, and the ability to carry out daily activities.","detailed_information":"Early symptoms often include forgetting recent events or conversations, repeating questions, getting lost in familiar places, difficulty finding words, and changes in mood or judgment. Over time, people may need help with dressing, eating, and self-care. Brain changes involve buildup of amyloid plaques and tau tangles, leading to neuron loss. Risk factors include older age, family history, certain genes (such as APOE e4), head injury, cardiovascular disease, and less cognitive\/social activity. Diagnosis combines history, cognitive testing, and brain imaging or biomarkers to rule out other causes. Treatment includes cholinesterase inhibitors or memantine for symptom support, caregiver education, safety planning, and management of mood or sleep problems.","layman_term":"A brain illness that slowly steals memory and thinking skills, making everyday tasks harder over time.","possible_causes":["Age-related brain changes with amyloid and tau pathology","Family history and genetic risk (e.g., APOE e4)","Cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension","Prior head trauma","Not a normal part of aging despite being more common in older adults"],"treatment_overview":["Medicines that may modestly slow symptom progression (e.g., donepezil, memantine)","Structured daily routine and memory aids","Caregiver support and home safety modifications","Treat depression, sleep problems, and other coexisting conditions"],"medical_scientific_name":"Alzheimer disease","basic_treatment_steps":["Keep a predictable daily schedule with reminders and labels","Ensure safe home environment (locks, supervision as needed)","Encourage social engagement and mentally stimulating activities","Attend regular neurology or geriatrics follow-up"],"first_aid_steps":["Seek emergency care for sudden confusion, weakness, or speech change (possible stroke)","Call for help if the person wanders unsafely or cannot be located"],"symptoms":["Forgetting recent events or conversations","Repeating questions or stories","Difficulty finding words","Getting lost in familiar places","Poor judgment or decision-making","Mood or personality changes","Trouble handling money or medications","Needing help with daily tasks over time"],"keywords":["alzheimer","disease","common","alzheimerdisease","alzheimer disease","common diseases","common_diseases","alzheimers","dementia","memory","forgetfulness","cognitive"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Alzheimer's Disease","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/alzheimersdisease.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Alzheimer disease","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Alzheimer%20disease"},{"title":"PubMed – Alzheimer disease","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Alzheimer%20disease"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/alzheimersdisease.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Alzheimer's Disease"},{"id":"common-diseases-bell-palsy","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Bell Palsy","answer":"Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part of your body. It happens when something goes wrong with the way messages pass between your brain and muscles. Paralysis can be complete or partial. It can occur on one or both sides of your body. It can also occur in just one area, or it can be widespread. Paralysis of the lower half of your body, including both legs, is called paraplegia. Paralysis of the arms and legs is quadriplegia.","detailed_information":"Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part of your body. It happens when something goes wrong with the way messages pass between your brain and muscles. Paralysis can be complete or partial. It can occur on one or both sides of your body. It can also occur in just one area, or it can be widespread. Paralysis of the lower half of your body, including both legs, is called paraplegia. Paralysis of the arms and legs is quadriplegia.\nMost paralysis is due to strokes or injuries such as spinal cord injury or a broken neck. Other causes of paralysis include:\n- Nerve diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis\n- \tAutoimmune diseases such as Guillain-Barre syndrome\n- Bell's palsy, which affects muscles in the face\nPolio used to be a cause of paralysis, but polio no longer occurs in the U.S.","layman_term":"Paralysis is the loss of muscle function in part of your body.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["bell","palsy","common","bellpalsy","bell palsy","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Paralysis","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/paralysis.html"},{"title":"PubMed – Bell Palsy","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Bell%20Palsy"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/paralysis.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Paralysis"},{"id":"common-diseases-vertigo","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Vertigo","answer":"When you're dizzy, you may feel lightheaded, woozy, or disoriented. If you feel like you or the room are spinning, you have vertigo. These feelings may make you lose your balance.","detailed_information":"When you're dizzy, you may feel lightheaded, woozy, or disoriented. If you feel like you or the room are spinning, you have vertigo. These feelings may make you lose your balance.\nDizziness can have many different causes. A sudden drop in blood pressure or being dehydrated can make you dizzy. Many people feel lightheaded if they get up too quickly from sitting or lying down. Certain medicines and problems with your inner ear may cause dizziness. So can motion sickness. Sometimes dizziness can be a symptom of other disorders.\nAs people get older, they may have more health problems and take more medicines. This makes them more likely to have problems with dizziness and balance.","layman_term":"When you're dizzy, you may feel lightheaded, woozy, or disoriented.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":["NIH: National Institutes of Health"],"medical_scientific_name":"Vertigo","basic_treatment_steps":["NIH: National Institutes of Health"],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["vertigo","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Dizziness and Vertigo","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/dizzinessandvertigo.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Vertigo","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Vertigo"},{"title":"PubMed – Vertigo","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Vertigo"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/dizzinessandvertigo.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Dizziness and Vertigo"},{"id":"common-diseases-tinnitus","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Tinnitus","answer":"Tinnitus is often described as a ringing in the ears. It also can sound like roaring, clicking, hissing, or buzzing. It may be soft or loud, high pitched or low pitched. You might hear it in either one or both ears.","detailed_information":"Tinnitus is often described as a ringing in the ears. It also can sound like roaring, clicking, hissing, or buzzing. It may be soft or loud, high pitched or low pitched. You might hear it in either one or both ears.\nMillions of Americans have tinnitus. People with severe tinnitus may have trouble hearing, working or even sleeping.\nCauses of tinnitus include:\n- Hearing loss in older people\n- Exposure to loud noises\n- Ear and sinus infections\n- Heart or blood vessel problems\n- Meniere's disease\n- Brain tumors\n- Hormonal changes in women\n- Thyroid problems\n- Certain medicines\nTreatment depends on the cause.  Treatments may include hearing aids, sound-masking devices, medicines, and ways to learn how to cope with the noise.\nNIH: National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders","layman_term":"Tinnitus is often described as a ringing in the ears.","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Tinnitus","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["tinnitus","common","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Tinnitus","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/tinnitus.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Tinnitus","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Tinnitus"},{"title":"PubMed – Tinnitus","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Tinnitus"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/tinnitus.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Tinnitus"},{"id":"common-diseases-sore-throat","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Sore Throat","answer":"Your throat is a tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx (also called the voice box). The technical name for the throat is pharynx.","detailed_information":"Your throat is a tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx (also called the voice box). The technical name for the throat is pharynx.\nYou can have a sore throat for many reasons.  Often, colds and flu cause sore throats.  Other causes can include:\n- Allergies\n- Mononucleosis\n- Smoking\n- Strep throat\n- Tonsillitis\nTreatment depends on the cause.  Sucking on lozenges, drinking lots of liquids, and gargling may ease the pain.  Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help, but children should not take aspirin.","layman_term":"Your throat is a tube that carries food to your esophagus and air to your windpipe and larynx (also called the voice box).","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Streptococcal sore throat","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["sore","throat","common","sorethroat","sore throat","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Sore Throat","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sorethroat.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Streptococcal sore throat","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Streptococcal%20sore%20throat"},{"title":"PubMed – Streptococcal sore throat","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Streptococcal%20sore%20throat"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/sorethroat.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Sore Throat"},{"id":"common-diseases-dry-cough","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Dry Cough","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["dry","cough","common","drycough","dry cough","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"PubMed – Dry Cough","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Dry%20Cough"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Dry%20Cough","source_label":"NIH \/ NLM medical references"},{"id":"common-diseases-productive-cough","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Productive Cough","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Productive cough","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["productive","cough","common","productivecough","productive cough","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Productive cough","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Productive%20cough"},{"title":"PubMed – Productive cough","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Productive%20cough"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Productive%20cough","source_label":"NLM ClinVar disease names"},{"id":"common-diseases-nasal-congestion","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Nasal Congestion","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Nasal congestion","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["nasal","congestion","common","nasalcongestion","nasal congestion","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Nasal congestion","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Nasal%20congestion"},{"title":"PubMed – Nasal congestion","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Nasal%20congestion"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Nasal%20congestion","source_label":"NLM ClinVar disease names"},{"id":"common-diseases-chest-wall-pain","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Chest Wall Pain","answer":"N\/A","detailed_information":"N\/A","layman_term":"N\/A","possible_causes":[],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"N\/A","basic_treatment_steps":[],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["chest","wall","pain","common","chestwallpain","chest wall pain","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"PubMed – Chest Wall Pain","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Chest%20Wall%20Pain"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Chest%20Wall%20Pain","source_label":"NIH \/ NLM medical references"},{"id":"common-diseases-muscle-cramp","category":"common_diseases","category_label":"Common diseases","title":"Muscle Cramp","answer":"Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions or spasms in one or more of your muscles. They are very common and often occur after exercise. Some people get muscle cramps, especially leg cramps, at night. They can be painful, and they may last a few seconds to several minutes.","detailed_information":"What are muscle cramps?Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions or spasms in one or more of your muscles. They are very common and often occur after exercise. Some people get muscle cramps, especially leg cramps, at night. They can be painful, and they may last a few seconds to several minutes.\nYou can have a cramp in any muscle, but they happen most often in the:\n- Thighs\n- Feet\n- Hands\n- Arms\n- Abdomen\n- Area along your ribcage","layman_term":"Muscle cramps are sudden, involuntary contractions or spasms in one or more of your muscles.","possible_causes":["Straining or overusing a muscle. This is the most common cause.","Compression of your nerves, from problems such as a spinal cord injury or a pinched nerve in the neck or back","Dehydration","Low levels of electrolytes such as magnesium, potassium, or calcium","Not enough blood getting to your muscles","Pregnancy","Certain medicines","Getting dialysis","Sometimes the cause of muscle cramps is unknown."],"treatment_overview":[],"medical_scientific_name":"Muscle cramps, familial","basic_treatment_steps":["Stretch your muscles, especially before exercising. If you often get leg cramps at night, stretch your leg muscles before bed.","Drink plenty of liquids. If you do intense exercise or exercise in the heat, sports drinks can help you replace electrolytes."],"first_aid_steps":[],"symptoms":[],"keywords":["muscle","cramp","common","musclecramp","muscle cramp","common diseases","common_diseases"],"references":[{"title":"MedlinePlus – Muscle Cramps","url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/musclecramps.html"},{"title":"NLM ClinVar – Muscle cramps, familial","url":"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/clinvar\/?term=Muscle%20cramps%2C%20familial"},{"title":"PubMed – Muscle cramps, familial","url":"https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/?term=Muscle%20cramps%2C%20familial"}],"source":"database","source_url":"https:\/\/medlineplus.gov\/musclecramps.html","source_label":"MedlinePlus – Muscle Cramps"}]