WHAT IS IT? Emphysema gradually damages the air sacs in your lungs, making you progressively shorter of breath. It’s one of several diseases known collectively as a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The main symptom of emphysema is shortness of b... View Post

WHAT IS IT? Eczema is a condition that makes your skin red and itchy. It’s common in children but can occur at any age. Eczema is associated with allergies, and it may be accompanied by asthma or hay fever. Other signs and symptoms include patches of thicken... View Post

WHAT’S THE CAUSE? Dry skin can occur for a variety of reasons. Most commonly, it’s the result of dry air, cold weather, hot showers, harsh soaps, and detergents, or too much sun. Dry skin is often temporary — you get it only in winter, for example — but it m... View Post

WHAT IS IT?The term dizziness is used to describe everything from feeling faint or lightheaded to feeling weak or unsteady. Although an occasional dizzy spell or constant dizziness can be annoying and interrupt daily activities, dizziness rarely signals a se... View Post

WHAT IS IT? It’s not uncommon for small, bulging pouches (diverticula) to form in the lining of your digestive tract. The pouches are most often found in the lower large intestine (colon). They develop when weak spots in the colon give way under pressure.Sel... View Post

Viruses. Viruses that can cause diarrhea include Norwalk virus, cytomegalovirus, and viral hepatitis. Rotavirus is a common cause of acute childhood diarrhea. Bacteria and parasites. Contaminated food or water can transmit bacteria and parasites to your body. Parasites such as Giardia ... View Post

WHAT IS IT? Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of diseases that affect how your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is an important source of energy for the cells that make up your muscles and tissues. It’s also your brain’s main source of fuel. If you... View Post

WHAT IS IT?Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. More than just “a bout of the blues,” depression isn’t something that you can “snap out" of. It’s a medical illness that affects how you feel, think, a... View Post