Chagas disease is a potentially life-threatening illness caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, primarily transmitted by the bite of infected triatomine bugs, also known as "kissing bugs." It is more commonly found in parts of Latin America but can also be spread through congenital transmission (from mother to child), blood transfusions, organ transplants, and even contaminated food or drink in some cases.

Chronic Pain Syndrome (CPS) is a condition characterized by persistent, long-term pain that lasts for weeks, months, or even years, often despite medical treatment. It is more than just a physical sensation; chronic pain can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, emotional well-being, and daily functioning.

Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) is a rare, neurological disorder that involves inflammation of the peripheral nerves, leading to nerve damage. It is considered the chronic form of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), a related condition that typically causes acute nerve damage.

Chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis (CRMO) is a rare, non-infectious inflammatory bone disease that primarily affects children and adolescents. It is characterized by recurrent episodes of inflammation in multiple bones over time. The exact cause of CRMO is unknown, but it is considered to be an autoimmune condition, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the bones, leading to inflammation.

Churg-Strauss Syndrome (CSS), also known as Eosinophilic Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (EGPA), is a rare autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the blood vessels (vasculitis) and affects various organs in the body. It is characterized by eosinophilia (an elevated number of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell) and can lead to damage in organs such as the lungs, heart, skin, and nerves.

Cicatricial pemphigoid, also known as ocular cicatricial pemphigoid (OCP), is a rare, chronic autoimmune blistering disorder that primarily affects the mucous membranes, especially the eyes, skin, mouth, throat, and genitals. It is characterized by the formation of blisters and scarring (cicatrization) on mucosal surfaces. The condition is a type of pemphigoid, which is a group of autoimmune disorders in which the immune system mistakenly attacks proteins that help skin and mucous membranes adhere to underlying tissues.

Cogan's Syndrome is a rare, autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the eyes and ears, leading to symptoms like vision problems and hearing loss. It is characterized by inflammation of the cornea (keratitis) and the inner ear (vestibular or cochlear involvement), which can result in progressive loss of vision and balance issues. It can also affect other organs, including the heart, skin, and blood vessels.

Cold and Flu Prevention and Treatment refer to strategies and measures aimed at reducing the risk of contracting these viral infections and managing symptoms if one does get sick. Both cold and flu are common viral infections, but they differ in terms of severity, symptoms, and complications.

Cold Agglutinin Disease (CAD) is a rare type of autoimmune hemolytic anemia in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own red blood cells when exposed to cold temperatures. This condition occurs when cold agglutinins (autoantibodies) bind to red blood cells at lower temperatures, leading to hemolysis (destruction of red blood cells) and a reduced number of red blood cells in circulation.

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled blisters that typically appear on or around the lips, though they can occur in other areas of the face or inside the mouth. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), most commonly HSV-1, and are highly contagious. Once infected, the virus remains dormant in the body and can reactivate periodically, often triggered by certain factors.

Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), previously known as Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), is a chronic pain condition that typically affects a limb (such as an arm or leg) after an injury or trauma. The pain is often severe, out of proportion to the original injury, and is accompanied by other symptoms affecting the skin, muscles, and nervous system. CRPS is considered a disorder of the nervous system in which the pain persists long after the initial injury has healed, often leading to significant physical, emotional, and psychological distress.

Congenital heart block is a rare condition in which there is an abnormal delay or blockage in the electrical conduction system of the heart, present at birth. This block can interfere with the normal rhythm of the heart, causing it to beat too slowly or irregularly.

Chronic constipation refers to a long-term condition where a person experiences infrequent, difficult, or painful bowel movements. It can be accompanied by the sensation of incomplete evacuation, bloating, and discomfort. Unlike occasional constipation, chronic constipation persists for several weeks or even longer, and it can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.

Chronic cough is a persistent cough that lasts for 8 weeks or more in adults or 4 weeks or more in children. Unlike a temporary cough that may occur due to a cold or flu, a chronic cough can indicate an underlying medical condition that requires diagnosis and treatment.

Coxsackie myocarditis is an inflammation of the heart muscle (myocardium) caused by a Coxsackievirus, a type of enterovirus. This viral infection can lead to the weakening of the heart muscle and impair the heart's ability to pump blood effectively, which can result in symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Myocarditis caused by Coxsackievirus is one of the most common viral causes of myocarditis, especially in children and young adults.

Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune disorder that belongs to the category of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). It causes chronic inflammation in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue. It is a lifelong condition with periods of flare-ups and remission.

Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes inflammation in the digestive tract, which can lead to symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, and malnutrition. It is a type of autoimmune disorder, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the digestive tract, leading to inflammation and tissue damage.

Cushing's Syndrome is a rare hormonal disorder that occurs when the body is exposed to high levels of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Cortisol plays a key role in regulating metabolism, reducing inflammation, controlling the body's sleep-wake cycle, and helping the body respond to stress. However, too much cortisol can lead to a variety of symptoms and health issues.

Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome (CVS) is a rare disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of severe vomiting that occur in cycles, with symptom-free intervals in between. These episodes can last from hours to days and may occur unpredictably, often affecting children but also adults. The condition is not associated with any underlying gastrointestinal diseases but is considered a functional disorder.

Dementia is a general term used to describe a decline in cognitive function severe enough to interfere with daily life. It is not a specific disease but a group of symptoms that affect memory, thinking, reasoning, and social abilities. Dementia primarily affects older adults, but it is not a normal part of aging.

Depression is a common and serious mental health disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. It is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. Depression can interfere with work, school, and personal relationships and can have a significant impact on one's overall quality of life.

Dermatitis is a general term for inflammation of the skin. It describes a range of skin conditions that cause red, itchy, and inflamed skin. The condition can vary in severity, from mild irritation to painful, swollen rashes, and it may occur in people of all ages. Dermatitis is not contagious but can significantly impact comfort and quality of life.

Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a chronic skin condition characterized by itchy, blistering, and inflamed skin. It is closely associated with celiac disease, a condition where the immune system reacts to the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Dermatomyositis is a rare autoimmune inflammatory disease that primarily affects the skin and muscles, causing symptoms like muscle weakness, skin rashes, and in some cases, damage to internal organs. It is considered part of a group of disorders known as inflammatory myopathies.

Devic's disease, also known as neuromyelitis optica (NMO), is a rare and serious autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the optic nerves (causing vision problems) and the spinal cord (causing paralysis and other neurological symptoms). NMO is characterized by episodes of severe inflammation that damage these areas of the central nervous system (CNS).

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is the primary source of energy for cells, and its regulation depends on a hormone called insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. Diabetes occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. This leads to high blood sugar levels, which can damage various organs over time.

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects how your body processes blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is a key source of energy for the body, and insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, plays a critical role in allowing glucose to enter your cells for energy. In diabetes, the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use insulin effectively, leading to high levels of glucose in the blood.There are several types of diabetes, with Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, and gestational diabetes being the most common.

Chronic diarrhea is defined as diarrhea that persists for four weeks or longer. It can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions and may lead to significant disruption in daily life due to frequent, watery stools. Chronic diarrhea can be a sign of an underlying health issue, and it often requires medical evaluation to determine the root cause.

Discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) is a chronic autoimmune condition that primarily affects the skin. It is a form of cutaneous lupus erythematosus, meaning it primarily causes skin problems, unlike systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which can affect multiple organs such as the kidneys, heart, and lungs. The name "discoid" refers to the discoid-shaped (circular or coin-shaped) lesions that appear on the skin, typically on the face, scalp, ears, and other sun-exposed areas.

Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are conditions related to the formation of small pouches, called diverticula, in the walls of the colon.

Dressler’s Syndrome, also known as post-myocardial infarction syndrome, is a type of inflammation that occurs in the pericardium (the sac-like membrane surrounding the heart) following a heart injury, particularly a heart attack (myocardial infarction), heart surgery, or trauma. It is believed to result from an autoimmune response triggered by damage to heart tissue.

A duodenal ulcer is a type of peptic ulcer that occurs in the duodenum, which is the first part of the small intestine, just after the stomach. It is characterized by an open sore or lesion that forms on the inner lining of the duodenum. Duodenal ulcers are often caused by an imbalance between the digestive acids in the stomach and the protective mechanisms in the gastrointestinal tract.

Dyspnea is the medical term for shortness of breath or difficulty breathing. It is a subjective sensation of not getting enough air and is often described as feeling out of breath, suffocated, or unable to take a deep breath. Dyspnea can occur suddenly or develop gradually, and it can range from mild to severe, depending on the underlying cause.

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by abnormal or unhealthy eating habits that can negatively impact a person’s physical health, emotional well-being, and overall functioning. These disorders often involve an intense preoccupation with food, body weight, and shape, which can lead to dangerous behaviors. They can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, though they are more common in women and typically emerge during adolescence or young adulthood.

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes the skin to become red, itchy, inflamed, and dry. It is a common condition, especially in children, but it can affect people of all ages. Eczema can occur anywhere on the body but is commonly seen on the hands, feet, face, and behind the knees. The condition tends to flare up periodically and can vary in severity.

EdemaEdema is the medical term for swelling caused by the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues of the body. It can occur in any part of the body but is most commonly noticed in the feet, ankles, legs, hands, and face. Edema is often a symptom of an underlying condition and may be temporary or chronic, depending on its cause.

Emphysema is a chronic lung disease that is part of a group of diseases called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It primarily affects the lungs' ability to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide, leading to difficulty breathing. Emphysema is characterized by damage to the alveoli (the tiny air sacs in the lungs), which causes them to lose their elasticity and become enlarged. This damage reduces the surface area available for gas exchange, making it harder for the lungs to get oxygen into the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide.

Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (called the endometrium) grows outside the uterus. This tissue can be found on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, and sometimes in other areas of the abdomen or pelvic cavity.

Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition in which tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus (called the endometrium) begins to grow outside the uterus. This tissue can grow on the ovaries, fallopian tubes, the outer surface of the uterus, and other organs within the pelvis. In rare cases, it may also spread to areas outside the pelvic cavity.

Environmental and Seasonal Allergies are hypersensitivity reactions of the immune system to substances in the environment, which can cause a variety of symptoms. These allergies typically occur when the body reacts to allergens—substances that are usually harmless to most people, but provoke an immune response in sensitive individuals.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic immune-mediated disease in which a type of white blood cell called eosinophils accumulates in the esophagus, leading to inflammation and damage to the esophageal tissue. Eosinophils are typically involved in allergic reactions, and their presence in the esophagus is abnormal and can disrupt normal swallowing and digestion.

Eosinophilic Fasciitis is a rare autoimmune disorder that involves inflammation and thickening of the skin and connective tissues, particularly the fascia, which is the tissue surrounding muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. The condition leads to the buildup of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell, in the affected areas, causing inflammation and fibrosis (scarring) of the tissue.

Erythema Nodosum (EN) is a type of inflammatory skin condition that causes the formation of painful, red bumps or nodules under the skin, typically on the shins. It is considered an immune-mediated reaction and can be associated with a variety of underlying conditions.

Essential Mixed Cryoglobulinemia (EMC)Essential mixed cryoglobulinemia (EMC) is a rare immune system disorder characterized by the presence of cryoglobulins in the blood. Cryoglobulins are abnormal proteins that precipitate (or clump together) at low temperatures and dissolve again when warmed. This abnormal protein aggregation can lead to inflammation and damage to blood vessels (vasculitis), affecting various organs in the body.The condition is called "mixed" because the cryoglobulins typically consist of a combination of immunoglobulins (antibodies), most commonly IgM and IgG, which are types of antibodies involved in immune responses.

Evans syndrome is a rare and serious autoimmune disorder in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia (destruction of red blood cells) and thrombocytopenia (low platelet count). It is a type of autoimmune cytopenia, where the immune system targets and destroys multiple types of blood cells, causing various complications.

Failed Back Surgery Syndrome (FBSS), also known as Post-Laminectomy Syndrome, refers to a condition where a patient experiences ongoing pain or dysfunction after undergoing spinal surgery intended to relieve back pain. Despite surgery, individuals with FBSS continue to have persistent or worsening symptoms, which may include pain, numbness, weakness, or limited mobility.

Fatigue is a state of extreme tiredness, weakness, or lack of energy that is not relieved by rest or sleep. It is different from ordinary tiredness, which can usually be resolved with a good night’s sleep or a break. Fatigue can be physical, mental, or a combination of both, and it can significantly affect a person's ability to function effectively in daily activities.

Fertility refers to the natural ability to reproduce, specifically the ability to conceive and bear children. It involves the functioning of several systems in both men and women, including the reproductive system, hormone regulation, and overall health.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in specific areas of the body, known as tender points. It often accompanies other symptoms like sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties (sometimes referred to as "fibro fog"), and mood disorders such as depression or anxiety.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain, tenderness, and fatigue in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons throughout the body. The condition also often involves other symptoms, such as sleep disturbances, cognitive difficulties (often referred to as "fibro fog"), and mood changes. Fibromyalgia is a complex condition that can affect a person's quality of life and functioning, but it does not cause inflammation or damage to tissues.