Archive for the ‘Infections’ Category
Gastroenteritis is the inflammation of the stomach and intestines, both small and large, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea. Most cases of gastroenteritis are due to infections, mainly by viruses and bacteria, although there are immune related causes of gastroenteritis like eosinophilic gastroenteritis which is not caused by any microorganism. Gastroenteritis is known by many common names including :
- Gastro
- Gastric flu
- Stomach bug
- Tummy flu
- Intestinal flu
Even food poisoning is a type of gastroenteritis that is caused by the toxins of bacteria which is found in food.
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The brain and spinal cord are surrounded by layered membranes, known as meninges, and cerebrospinal fluid. In certain instances, this lining becomes inflamed and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is also affected. This condition is known as meningitis and may increase pressure on the brain and spinal cord, causing a range of generalized and localized symptoms. Meningitis is a serious condition and is potentially fatal.
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Bacterial vaginosis is the medical term for a bacterial infection in the vagina. The vagina harbors many naturally occurring species of bacteria in a controlled environment. With a balanced pH and a constant level of moisture, the vaginal tissue remains intact from any bacterial invasion. However under certain circumstances, a bacterial overgrowth can occur. Alternatively, foreign bacteria may gain entry into the vagina and infect the cavity.
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Gangrene is the death of tissue followed by consumption by pathogens, usually bacteria. When any living tissue gets injured and if healing and repair is impossible, the tissue will die. This is known as necrosis. If the tissue is not discarded or the body cannot wall it off, bacteria will begin to consume this dead tissue and this is known as putrefaction. Gangrene is not separate from the body, but rather when the decomposing area lies adjacent or in continuity with the living tissue surrounding it, thereby running the risk of causing death to this healthy tissue.
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An abscess is a collection of pus within the body, in the tissues, organs or internal cavities, caused by the body’s response to an infection. An skin abscess is a furuncle and carbuncle, also known as blisters, boils or blains, and these pus swellings usually occur on the skin (cutaneous) or just underneath the skin (subcutaneous) where it may protrude through the skin. A deep seated abscess is a ‘ball of pus’ that grows internally and is usually not visible from the outside.
An ear grommet is a tiny tube inserted into the tympanic membrane (ear drum) to drain fluid and relieve air pressure differences between the middle ear (behind the ear drum) and outer ear or ear canal. Ear grommets are an integral part to treating ‘glue ear’ which is prevalent in children. Glue ear is a common term for ear disorders that cause a sticky fluid build up behind the ear drum, like otitis media.