Medwise by Pratheeba

  Atherosclerosis is a chronic condition in which fatty deposits, cholesterol, and other substances accumulate within the walls of arteries, forming plaques. These plaques gradually narrow and harden the arteries, reducing blood flow to vital organs such as the heart, brain, kidneys, and limbs. Because it often progresses without noticeable symptoms, atherosclerosis is commonly referred to as a "silent disease." How Does Atherosclerosis Develop? The development of atherosclerosis begins with damage to the inner lining of the arteries (endothelium). Factors such as high cholesterol levels, smoking, hypertension, and diabetes contribute to this damage. The process occurs in several stages : 1. Damage to the arterial wall allows low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or "bad cholesterol," to enter the vessel lining. 2. The body responds with inflammation, attracting immune cells to the affected area. 3. Fatty streaks begin to form as cholesterol accumulates. 4. Over time, thes...

  Introduction Rabies is a fatal viral disease caused by the rabies virus, which affects the central nervous system. It is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, most commonly dogs, via bites or scratches. Although rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms develop, it is 100% preventable with prompt wound care and appropriate prophylaxis. How Is Rabies Transmitted? Rabies spreads through: - Bites from infected animals - Scratches that break the skin - Saliva entering open wounds or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, or mouth) Common animals that transmit rabies include: - Dogs - Cats - Bats - Foxes - Wolves - Monkeys In India, dog bites are responsible for most human rabies cases. Signs and Symptoms The incubation period is usually 1–3 months, but it can vary. Early symptoms - Fever - Headache - Fatigue - Pain, tingling, or itching at the bite site Advanced symptoms - Anxiety and agitation - Difficulty swallowing - Excessive salivation - Hydrophobia (fear of water) - Aero...

  Introduction A Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) is one of the most common bacterial infections affecting people of all ages. It occurs when harmful microorganisms, usually bacteria, enter the urinary tract and multiply, causing inflammation and infection. UTIs are more common in women due to their shorter urethra, but they can also affect men and children. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are important to prevent complications, especially if the infection spreads to the kidneys. What is a Urinary Tract Infection? The urinary tract is responsible for producing, storing, and removing urine from the body. It consists of: - Kidneys – filter waste and produce urine. - Ureters – carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder. - Bladder – stores urine. - Urethra – carries urine out of the body. A UTI can affect any part of the urinary tract, but most infections involve the bladder and urethra. Types of UTIs 1. Urethritis An infection of the urethra, the tube through which urine leaves the...

  Introduction Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito-borne viral disease that mainly affects the brain. It is caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), a member of the flavivirus family. Although most infected people do not develop symptoms, a small number may develop severe brain inflammation (encephalitis), which can be life-threatening. Japanese encephalitis is an important public health concern in many parts of Asia, including India. Vaccination and mosquito control are the most effective ways to prevent the disease. What Is Japanese Encephalitis? Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection transmitted through the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes, especially Culex tritaeniorhynchus. The virus naturally circulates among pigs and water birds, which act as amplifying and reservoir hosts. Humans are accidental or dead-end hosts because they usually do not develop high enough levels of the virus in the blood to infect mosquitoes. How Is Japanese Encephalitis Spread? Japane...

Introduction Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases affecting millions of people worldwide. It occurs when the body is unable to regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels properly. If left untreated, diabetes can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, nerves, and blood vessels. However, with early diagnosis, healthy lifestyle changes, and appropriate medical treatment, people with diabetes can lead healthy and active lives. What Is Diabetes? Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels (hyperglycemia). Glucose is the body's main source of energy and comes from the food we eat. The hormone insulin, produced by the pancreas, helps glucose enter the body's cells to be used for energy. When the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it effectively, glucose builds up in the bloodstream, leading to diabetes. Types of Diabetes Type 1 Diabetes Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition in which the body's immune system destroys...