Overview of Orthodontics Orthodontics is the specialized field of dentistry focused on diagnosing, preventing, and correcting malocclusion, or misalignment of the teeth and jaws. Using appliances like braces, orthodontic treatment improves the appearance of crooked, crowded, or gapped teeth and incorrect jaw position. Correcting bite issues can also prevent damage to the teeth and improve…
Defining Multiple Sclerosis Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system. In MS, the immune system incorrectly attacks the myelin sheath, the protective covering surrounding nerve fibers, as well as the nerve fibers themselves. This damage interferes with signal transmission in the brain and spinal cord, producing an array of neurological…
Understanding Montelukast: Exploring its Mechanism and Purpose Montelukast is a prescription medication classified as a leukotriene receptor antagonist that works to block inflammatory leukotrienes involved in allergy and asthma symptoms. It is commonly sold under the brand name Singulair. Montelukast is taken orally once daily to help prevent and alleviate such symptoms, especially wheezing, coughing,…
Demystifying Macular Degeneration: Understanding the Condition Macular degeneration is an age-related eye disease that damages the macula, which is the central part of the retina responsible for sharp central vision needed for activities like reading and driving. The condition develops when cellular debris called drusen accumulates under the macula, causing it to thin and lose…
Defining Oxygen Concentrators Oxygen concentrators are electric medical devices delivering concentrated oxygen to patients requiring oxygen therapy at home or on-the-go. They selectively filter nitrogen out of ambient air, leaving an oxygen-enriched gas stream helpful for those with chronic respiratory conditions, cardiac disease, or low blood-oxygen levels. Portable lightweight models even enable travel which liquid…
Understanding Migraine Headaches: Overview and Impact Migraines involve severe recurrent headaches combined with symptoms like nausea that can be debilitating. Migraines result from brain hyper-excitability and changes in nerve pathways and brain chemicals. Migraines often run in families and affect over 1 billion individuals globally. Frequent attacks disrupt work, relationships, and quality of life. Expanding…
Introduction to Lupus: Exploring its Complexity and Impact Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause widespread inflammation and tissue damage across multiple body systems when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own healthy cells and organs. This complex disease has a range of symptoms that vary significantly in presentation and severity among…
Defining Osteoporosis Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by loss of bone mineral density and deterioration of bone tissue, leading to fragile, fracture-prone bones. It develops when bone resorption by cells called osteoclasts exceeds bone building by osteoblasts. Typically a silent progressive disease, osteoporosis is usually diagnosed only once a fracture occurs. Preventing bone loss…
Evolution of Multiple Myeloma Treatment: A Historical Perspective Multiple myeloma treatment has progressed substantially, translating into improved patient outcomes. Prior to the mid-20th century, myeloma was rapidly fatal with limited therapeutic options beyond palliative radiotherapy. The 1960s brought alkylating agents and steroids extending survival to 2-3 years. Addition of high-dose chemotherapy and stem cell transplantation…
Overview of Urinary Tract Infections A urinary tract infection (UTI) occurs when bacteria enter and multiply within the urinary system. UTIs frequently affect the lower urinary tract encompassing the urethra and bladder causing painful, burning urination, pelvic discomfort, and frequent urgent urges to void. Some UTIs spread to the kidneys becoming more serious. While antibiotics…
