The fear of being in darkness (nyctophobia) is also known as lygophobia. The term "nyctophobia" comes from the Greek word meaning "night." It is a common phobia, especially in children. Up to 45% of children suffer from some sort of fear, with nyctophobia being one of the most common, particularly among children aged 5 to... Continue Reading →
Understanding Ichthyosis: Symptoms and Treatments
Ichthyosis is a rare genetic skin disorder. It is characterized by the abnormal formation of skin. This leads to dry, scaly patches that can be extensive. These patches may cover large areas of the body. This condition occurs when the skin can't effectively shed dead skin cells. This leads to a build-up of these cells.... Continue Reading →
Binge Eating Disorder: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a serious psychological condition characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often very quickly and to the point of discomfort. Individuals with BED typically feel a lack of control during these binge episodes, which may be triggered by emotional distress, such as stress, anxiety, or depression. Unlike... Continue Reading →
Understanding Achilles Tendinopathy: Causes and Treatments
Achilles tendinopathy is a condition characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. This condition is often caused by overuse or repeated stress, particularly in individuals who engage in activities that involve repetitive running or jumping. As the tendon becomes inflamed, it can lead... Continue Reading →
Understanding Ataxia: Symptoms, Types, and Treatments
Ataxia is a term for a group of neurological conditions that affect balance, coordination, and speech; these disorders can manifest in various degrees of severity and may arise from numerous underlying causes, including genetic mutations, degenerative diseases, or injuries to the brain and spinal cord. Individuals experiencing ataxia often struggle with performing everyday tasks, as... Continue Reading →
Understanding Ankylosing Spondylitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints in the pelvis, leading to pain and stiffness in the back. It is a form of arthritis characterized by the fusion of the vertebrae over time, resulting in a significant reduction of flexibility and, in severe cases, a hunched... Continue Reading →
Managing Low Blood Pressure: Symptoms and Solutions
Hypotension is the medical term for low blood pressure. You have it when your blood pressure reading is much lower than normal. Blood pressure readings consist of two numbers: the top number measures systolic pressure, the pressure in the arteries when the heart beats, and the bottom number measures diastolic pressure, the pressure when the... Continue Reading →
Hyperthyroidism Causes and Effective Treatments
Hyperthyroidism is a condition where your thyroid makes and releases high levels of thyroid hormone, leading to an accelerated metabolism that can significantly impact your overall health. The main thyroid hormones are triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), each playing a crucial role in regulating numerous bodily functions, including heart rate, temperature control, and even mood.... Continue Reading →
Understanding Gingivitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Gingivitis is an early form of gum disease characterized by inflammation of the gums, often caused by the accumulation of plaque—a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth. Gingivitis can lead to more serious dental issues, including periodontitis, which affects the surrounding bone and tissue. Gingivitis is your body’s inflammatory response to plaque and tartar on your teeth.... Continue Reading →
Chronophobia: Coping with the Fear of Time Passing
Chronophobia is characterized by the fear of the passage of time. This complex condition often affects individuals who feel a profound anxiety related to the finite nature of existence. It is not uncommon for this fear to manifest when people contemplate their life milestones, aging, or the inevitability of death. People suffering from chronophobia may... Continue Reading →