Tongue cancer, or oral cancer, is a relatively rare form of the disease that affects many people. It’s growing more common over time, most likely due to higher use of tobacco and alcohol products. Unfortunately, it can be easily missed by patients or health care providers, leading to a delay in diagnosis resulting in poorer outcomes. Whether you know someone with tongue cancer, have been recently diagnosed yourself, or just want to know what you can do to reduce your risk for developing it - learning about the causes of tongue cancer is essential in awareness and prevention.

How is Tongue Cancer Caused?

Some of the important reasons and risk factors responsible for tongue cancer are mentioned below: 

• Genetic mutation – There are two very well-known genes whose alteration has been found to be linked with the incidence of various types of head and neck cancer, including tongue cancer. These two genes are EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) and p53 (Tumor suppressor protein 53).
• Smoking – Smoking is one of the major and most common tongue cancer reasons. The propensity of tongue squamous cell carcinoma in regular smokers is about 10 times higher than in non-smokers. The cigarette smoke contains many known cancer-causing agents such as polycyclic hydrocarbons and nitroso compounds. These compounds can cause damage to cellular DNA in the tongue, causing it to overgrow.
• Tobacco chewing – Similar to smoking, tobacco chewing is also an important causative agent for tongue cancer. Here, the harmful cancer-causing chemicals are directly released into the oral cavity and over the tongue.
• Alcohol consumption – Regular and heavy alcohol users are also at higher risk of developing tongue cancer. Alcohol is known to be metabolised into aldehyde which can change DNA functioning.
• HPV infection – Human papillomavirus infection is another reason behind tongue cancer incidence. Persistent HPV infection has shown a strong link to the incidence of tongue cancer and other oropharyngeal cancer (up to 70 % of cases of oropharyngeal cancer linked to HPV infection).
• Poor oral hygiene – Poor oral hygiene, which includes not cleaning teeth and gums regularly, poor diet, betel chewing and exposure to radiation. can enhance the risk of tongue cancer.
• Weak immunity – People with weak immunity are often at risk for developing many forms of cancers, including tongue cancer.

Throat cancer refers to cancer that occurs in different parts of the throat and includes cancer of the larynx (voice box), pharynx, and sometimes thyroid gland. this cancer can be a life-threatening disease, and it's important to understand the causes of this illness. Unfortunately, throat cancer is not as widely debated and discussed as other types of cancers - such as breast and prostate - so many people aren't aware of the risk factors connected to it. In this article, we examine some common causes of throat cancer that everyone should be aware of in order to take proactive steps towards better prevention or screening methods.

How is Throat Cancer Caused?

There are a wide range of causes of throat cancer. The common reasons and risks for throat cancer occurrence are below mentioned:

• Oral HPV infection – Infection with the human papillomavirus enhances the chances of developing throat cancer. Particularly, the individuals infected with HPV type 16 have shown a propensity towards throat cancer incidence.
• Genetic mutations: A certain mutation or change in the genetic material of the throat cells allows them to overgrow. Such genetic changes could be acquired or passed from parents to offspring, making them prone to cancer.
• Family history – People who have a family history or personal history of any form of head and neck cancer are prone to develop throat cancer.
• Chewing betel quid – Chewing betel quid that includes betel leaves, areca nut, and many stimulants has been documented as one of the major throat cancer reasons. This is common in many Asian countries, correlating with higher throat cancer incidences for these reasons.
• Tobacco products – Consistent consumption of tobacco products in any form, like smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewing tobacco, or even sniffing tobacco products, have been linked to throat cancer incidence.
• Alcohol consumption – Regular and heavy alcohol use has been found to be associated with a higher incidence of certain head and neck cancer,s including throat cancer. Research studies have shown that even moderate drinkers have 1.8-fold higher risks of pharyngeal cancers and 1.4-fold higher risks of laryngeal cancer (voice box) cancers than non-drinkers.
• Poor diet – A diet without sufficient fruits and vegetables is also a reason behind the increased risk of throat cancer.
• EBV infection – Infection with the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is a gamma human herpes virus type 4, can also increase the risk of throat cancer incidence.

Gingivitis is a common and widespread oral condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Symptoms typically include red, swollen gums that may bleed easily when brushing or flossing. While occasional cases are believed to be caused by factors outside the body, such as lifestyle habits and poor oral hygiene practices, sometimes the underlying cause can be something more sinister. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the causes of gingivitis in order to help you find answers and hopefully strive for relief from this unpleasant condition through your health insurance!

How is Gingivitis Caused?

Neglecting proper teeth cleaning can result in harmful bacteria thriving in your mouth, leading to the formation of plaque and inflamed gums. The main cause of gingivitis is the buildup of microbial plaque. Let's break down the key causes of gingivitis:

Microbial Plaque-Induced Gingivitis:

A thin layer of bacteria forms around your teeth and can lead to inflammation of the gums. Poor oral hygiene can cause this plaque to multiply and harden, worsening the condition. The most common culprits behind gingivitis are Streptococcus, Treponema, Veillonella, Fusobacterium, and Actinomyces. While less common, Capnocytophaga and Eikenella can also contribute to the problem.

Hormonal Gingivitis:

Hormonal Gingivitis is a real issue that pregnant women need to know about. During pregnancy, your changing hormones can cause inflammation in your gums, even with just a small amount of bacteria present. And it's not just pregnancy - puberty can also bring on gingivitis, thanks to the effects of estrogen and testosterone.

Esophageal cancer affects the esophagus, the muscular tube connecting your throat to your stomach. It is a challenging disease, with the early signs being unable to swallow solid food (solid food dysphagia), which can progress into difficulty in liquid food swallowing. While it may seem like an elusive condition that’s hard to predict or prevent, identifying some of the primary causes of esophageal cancer can help you understand how you could reduce your personal risk for this serious health issue. In this article, we will go over what causes esophageal cancer and the potential factors that may lead to this severe condition.

How is Esophageal Cancer caused?

Broadly, the causes of esophageal cancer can be categorised as follows:

• Genetic mutations – Mutations in certain genes (e.g. gene TEC (tylosis with esophageal cancer)) might be the reason behind certain esophageal cancers
• Family history – A family history of certain genetic syndromes like Howel-Evans syndrome (palmoplantar keratosis), Bloom syndrome (one of the reasons associated with leukemia, lymphomas), Wilms tumour (or chromosomal breakage syndrome); etc., have been found to increase the propensity of esophageal cancer.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) - The presence of GERD has shown a strong correlation to the development of esophageal cancer.
• Presence of diseases - Diseases like gastrectomy, atrophic gastritis, and caustic strictures. is known to increase the chances of esophageal cancer occurrence.
• Infections – Infections like the Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection can increase the chances of esophageal cancer.
• Lifestyle factors – Lifestyle factors play a major role in esophageal cancer incidence. These include –
  • Smoking and Alcohol – Smoking and alcohol consumption on a regular basis may cause damage to esophageal cells and further development of esophageal cancer.
  • Unhealthy Diet – A diet without sufficient fruits and vegetables and rich in processed food increases the chances of esophageal cancer.
  • Drinking beverages – Having more beverages on a daily basis, particularly that of high temperature, are known to enhance the chances of esophageal cancer.
  • Obesity & high body mass index – Both are known risk factors for esophagus cancer.
• Barrett esophagus – Barrett's esophagus can lead to a unique replacement of tissue in your esophagus, resembling that of your intestines and is one of the most common diseases that can cause esophageal cancer.

Are you wondering why some people get ear cancer and others don't? Is there something that puts some individuals at greater risk of developing this kind of malignancy? The answer to both these questions is yes, as research has shown there are certain factors which can influence the development of ear cancer. In this article, we will look into the causes of ear cancer in order to reduce one's chances of developing such a serious form of cancer.

How is Ear Cancer Caused?

You may be wondering, what causes ear cancer? Exposure of the outer ear skin or pinna to the sun for several years results in basal skin or squamous cell cancer near the temporal bone, which spreads and affects different structures of the ear. However, research has shown that, apart from sun exposure, certain other risk factors increase the likelihood of ear cancer, which include:

• Fair skin: People with fair skin have more chances of developing skin cancer and, therefore, ear cancer.
• Exposure to the sun for long hours without protection: UV rays from the sun increase the chances of skin cancer, which can lead to the development of ear cancer.
• Frequent ear infections: Ear infections result in inflammation of the ear, which may cause cellular changes and cancer in the ear.
• Ageing: According to research, people over 70 have a higher chance of developing skin cancer. Cellular changes occurring with age can act as triggers for the development of ear cancer.

Asthma is a medical condition that stems from inflammation in the lung airways, which leads to narrowed pathways and the presence of sticky mucous. Common triggers, such as environmental allergens, can cause this to flare up, making breathing a challenge. Whether it strikes suddenly or slowly builds over days, an asthma attack can make day-to-day life incredibly difficult. For those with severe asthma, the struggle to breathe is a constant battle. In this post, we will go over the main symptoms of asthma.

What are the Symptoms of Asthma?

People with asthma have times when their breathing becomes difficult. The common symptoms of asthma include:

• Whistling sound or wheezing when breathing
• Tightness in the chest
• Coughing
• Breathlessness

Other symptoms of severe asthma when people experience difficulty breathing most of the time are:

• Wheezing sound
• Persistent coughing and tightness of the chest that becomes severe
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Fainting
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Blue lips and fingers
• confusion

Meningitis is an infection of the fluid and membrane area surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This membrane, called meninges, helps to protect the brain and spinal cord from injury and offers support and structure as it contains nerves, blood vessels, and a protective fluid called cerebrospinal fluid. The inflammation from meningitis can trigger symptoms like headache, fever and a stiff neck. Meningitis affects most commonly in babies, young children, teenagers and young adults and is known to be very serious if not treated quickly. So it is advisable to understand the causes of meningitis and seek immediate medical care through your health insurance if someone in our family has meningitis. Read on to know more.

How is Meningitis Caused?

Meningitis is caused by harmful organisms from outside of the body like bacteria, viruses and fungi and in some cases, it can occur because of non-infectious conditions like diseases and certain medications. Listed below are the main causes of meningitis:

Viral Meningitis

Viral meningitis is a more common infection than the bacterial form as most viruses can trigger the disease that can cause diarrhoea. Some of the viruses are

• Coxsackievirus A
• Coxsackievirus B
• Echoviruses

Other viruses can cause meningitis. These include:

• West Nile virus
• Influenza virus
• Mumps
• HIV
• Measles
• Herpes viruses
• Coltivirus, which causes Colorado tick fever

Viral meningitis can be cured without treatment. However, some cases need to be treated during serious health conditions occurring because of meningitis

Bacterial meningitis

Bacterial meningitis is caused when bacteria enter the blood and move towards the brain and spinal cord or directly invade the membrane causing an infection of the ear or sinus, a skull fracture, or some surgeries.
Bacterial meningitis causes include:

• Streptococcus pneumoniae: This bacterium is the most common agent behind bacterial meningitis. Infection causes ear infections, sinus infections and meningitis and can be so severe a person may require a hospital stay.
• Neisseria meningitidis: This bacteria causes meningococcal meningitis that affects the upper respiratory system.
• Haemophilus influenzae: Haemophilus influenzae Type b (Hib) bacterium was known to be the leading cause of bacterial meningitis in children but with the release of new Hib vaccines, the number of cases for this type of meningitis has reduced.
• Listeria monocytogenes: These types of bacteria are generally found in unpasteurized dairy products, hot dogs and lunch meats. People with a weak immune system like in the case of pregnant women, newborns, and older adults, are most susceptible to it.

Fibromyalgia is a severe disorder that causes pain and tenderness throughout the body. A person with this condition also experiences trouble during sleeping, widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in the joints, muscles, and tendons. With new research coming out all the time, there are many theories on why fibromyalgia may happen, which makes it even more challenging to pinpoint specific causes. In today's article, we'll explore some possible causes of fibromyalgia and why health insurance can be great tool against it. 

How is Fibromyalgia Caused?

There is no definitive reason for the causes of fibromyalgia. However, there are a couple of theories as to what may contribute to the development of this severe condition. Here are the 8 root causes of fibromyalgia:

Genetics

Fibromyalgia is a condition claimed to be caused by a combination of genetic factors that runs in families which suggests that genes associated with an increased risk of developing fibromyalgia may play a role in its development. 

Infections

Infections could lead to fibromyalgia-like Lyme disease, triggered when a bacterial infection is transmitted by ticks that cause many symptoms, including fatigue, joint pain, and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Trauma

Fibromyalgia is a condition that is believed to be associated with trauma. This condition can happen when there is physical trauma, like a vehicle accident or a severe fall or emotional trauma experiences like abuse or neglect may also play a role and are thought to alter the neural system and result in chronic pain.

Emotional stress

Stress is thought to be one of the major fibromyalgia causes, which can trigger fibromyalgia symptoms and release stress hormones that can worsen the pain and interfere with sleep, which can make fatigue worse.

Autoimmunity

This is the condition when the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue, leading to widespread inflammation and pain. Autoimmune condition-related diseases are lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and celiac disease. which have all been linked to fibromyalgia

Hormonal imbalances

Fibromyalgia condition has been reported to be linked with hormonal imbalances that can lower the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine and elevate cortisol levels. 

Nutrient deficiencies

Nutrition deficiencies also contribute to the development of fibromyalgia because deficiencies of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids are directly linked with an increased risk of fibromyalgia.

Sleep disorders

Sleep problems are common symptoms of fibromyalgia because these conditions worsen fatigue and pain and make it more difficult for the body to function actively during the day. 

Conclusion

Knowing what causes fibromyalgia can be a great way to jumpstart treatment solutions. While there is still much to learn about its origin and development, the causes of fibromyalgia are linked with psychological triggers such as stress or trauma, certain medical conditions such as autoimmune diseases, or even genetic factors. With the right diagnosis and treatment plan, it is possible to live better despite living with this chronic condition.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

Alzheimer's disease is a severe degenerative condition that affects millions of people worldwide, their families and caregivers. Understanding the causes of Alzheimer's can be helpful for both patients diagnosed with this devastating illness as well as those who have family members or loved ones affected by it. In this article, we'll take a look at the various theories and potential causes of Alzheimer's disease, including genetic factors, lifestyle choices, environmental influences, neurological processes and more. Understanding what leads to this illness can hopefully provide us with some insights into how best to delay its progression or even prevent it altogether.

What are the Causes Of Alzheimer's?         

So, what causes Alzheimer’s disease? There are genetic factors associated with both early and late onset of Alzheimer’s disease, and several risk factors are also associated with this disease, which can be categorised as follows:

• Age: Advancing age is one of the most important causes and risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease.
• Genetic factors: Alzheimer’s disease has been found to be more common in people with the following genetic issues:
  • Presence of Trisomy 21 or Down’s Syndrome
  • The presence of the APOE e4 allele causes the build-up of a certain protein in the brain called amyloid-β (Aβ) that causes Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Presence of family history of dementia
• Head injury: Trauma in the head is one of the main causes of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Cerebrovascular disease: The presence of cerebrovascular or any type of brain disorder predisposes a person to Alzheimer’s disease.
• Smoking: Research has shown that smoking increases the chances of Alzheimer’s disease.
• Cardiovascular disease: The presence of cardiovascular or heart diseases has been found to cause cognitive decline and dementia, leading to Alzheimer’s disease.
• Depression: Depression is one of the main risk factors that causes changes in the brain and is responsible for many cases of Alzheimer’s disease.

Trichomoniasis is a parasite-borne sexually transmitted infection. Both men and women can become infected with this parasite. In women, it causes symptoms such as discharge with a foul smell, painful urination, discomfort in the lower abdomen, and itching or redness in the genital area. In males, trichomoniasis usually doesn't manifest any symptoms. But if symptoms are present, then they may include irritation or itching, discharge from the penis, and a burning sensation after ejaculation or urination. In this article, we explore the causes of trichomoniasis.

How is Trichomoniasis Caused?

Trichomoniasis is caused by an organism known as Trichomonas vaginalis. In females, this parasite mainly affects the vulva, vagina, cervix, and urethra. In males, it typically targets the urethra. In some cases, it can also infect the tip of the penis as well as the prostate gland. It is important to note that both men and women can contract and transmit this infection, making it a potential risk for anyone who engages in sexual activity. Trichomoniasis can be transmitted through the following modes:

Sexual Transmission

The most prevalent mode of transmission of trichomoniasis is through sexual contact. The parasite can be transmitted from an infected partner to a healthy partner during:

• Vaginal intercourse
• Anal sex
• Oral sex
• Skin-to-skin genital contact.

By having multiple sexual partners

An infected person who has multiple sexual partners is more likely to transmit trichomoniasis. However, it is important to note that anyone who is sexually active can potentially contract and transmit the infection.

By not using a condom

Condoms act as a barrier to prevent contact with the parasite, and their use can be an effective way to prevent trichomoniasis. Therefore, failing to use condoms consistently during sexual activity is a major risk factor for the transmission of trichomoniasis.

Conclusion

To conclude, trichomoniasis is a disease mainly caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis. This parasite can be transmitted through sexual activities like vaginal, anal, and oral sex, as well as by sharing unhygienic sex toys. Asymptomatic people can also pass on the infection. Therefore, using condoms for sexual activity, getting regular tests and having sexual health education are some crucial factors to prevent and manage trichomoniasis.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

Cystic fibrosis is a life-threatening disease in which thick, sticky mucus builds up in vital organs like the lungs, digestive tract, and other parts of the body. In cystic fibrosis, cells that produce body fluids (sweat, mucous) and digestive juices get affected. Instead of producing thin and slippery fluid, these cells start producing thick and sticky secretions. Body fluids produced in the body usually act as lubricants, but in cystic fibrosis, increased thickness of fluid clogs tubes and ducts, mainly in the lungs. People suffering from cystic fibrosis require daily care to live a better life. Let us look at some of the main causes of cystic fibrosis.

How is Cystic Fibrosis Caused?

Cystic fibrosis can be caused by any of the following:

• Cystic fibrosis is caused by a faulty cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene inherited from parents. This faulty gene results in a change in the protein that controls the motion of salt in and out of cells.
• Changes in the protein result in the formation of sticky mucous, digestive juices, and increased salt content in the sweat.
• Cystic fibrosis is caused by a type of recessive gene, which means that in order to have the disease, a child needs to inherit one copy of the faulty gene from both parents.
• If a person has only one copy of the gene, then disease does not develop, and the person is called the carrier of the disease.
• Complications of the respiratory system
• Damage to the airways is one the main causes of cystic fibrosis
• Other symptoms of the respiratory tract include polyp growth in the nose, coughing up blood, pneumothorax, and respiratory failure.
• Complications of the digestive system
• Nutritional deficiencies- The buildup of thick mucus can clog the tubes that carry digestive enzymes from the pancreas to the intestine. In the absence of enzymes, the body cannot absorb vital nutrients, which in turn results in weight loss, growth retardation, and pancreatitis.
• Cystic fibrosis also increases the risk of developing diabetes.
• Other complications include the development of liver diseases, cirrhosis, gallstones, and intestinal obstruction.
• Complications of the reproductive system
• Male infertility: The tube that connects the prostrate to the testes is either not present or is blocked with thick mucus in males suffering from cystic fibrosis. Therefore, all males suffering from cystic fibrosis are infertile.
• Decreased female fertility: Females suffering from cystic fibrosis have reduced fertility in comparison to normal females. Although females suffering from the disease can conceive, pregnancy can exacerbate the symptoms of cystic fibrosis.
• Other complications of the disease include osteoporosis (thinning of the bones), electrolyte imbalance, and mental health problems.
• If close relatives are suffering from cystic fibrosis, it is good to do the genetic testing before having children to prevent the disease.

Cystic fibrosis symptoms and warning signs vary depending on the severity of the disease. In some people, symptoms do not appear until teenage or adulthood. People who are not diagnosed with the disease until adulthood usually have mild symptoms like pancreatitis, infertility, and recurring pneumonia. It is important for you to get the right diagnosis and treatment at the right time. Check your health insurance for whether it includes coverage for Cystic Fibrosis and other similar conditions. 

Conclusion

Cystic fibrosis is a disease caused by two copies of a faulty gene. In this disease, instead of thin and slimy mucus, thick and sticky mucus is produced that can clog the airways, digestive tract tubes, and tubes of other organs. Cystic fibrosis can lead to respiratory problems, digestive system problems, and infertility in males and females. Knowing the causes of cystic fibrosis is beneficial for better understanding of the condition. To prevent the disease, it is beneficial to undergo genetic testing before having children.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

Ulcerative colitis is a severe inflammatory disease that results in the formation of ulcers within the inner lining of vital organs of the digestive system- the large intestine, colon, and rectum. People suffering from this condition have symptoms on and off, which vary among individuals. Although it remains a medical mystery, researchers have made great strides toward uncovering the potential causes of ulcerative colitis. While more research is warranted to explain better what triggers this chronic intestinal disorder, there are some known risk factors that may contribute to its development or progression. In this article, we will explore the possible underlying causes of ulcerative colitis.

How is Ulcerative Colitis Caused?

Listed below are the major risk factors of ulcerative colitis:

• Autoimmune reactions: When the immune system tries to fight off a viral or bacterial infection, sometimes the immune response becomes irregular and aggravated, attacking its own cells in the digestive tract. White blood cells, which play a role in protection, start attacking gut cells, the normal microflora of the gut, and food, resulting in inflammation and the formation of ulcers.
• Hereditary genes may also be responsible for the development of the disease.
• Diet and stress: Previously, diet and stress were considered two factors that led to the development of ulcerative colitis. But now, with research, it has been found that diet and stress aggravate the symptoms of the disease and are not direct causes of ulcerative colitis.

Some other risk factors that can contribute to ulcerative colitis development are:

• Age: Ulcerative colitis mostly develops either before 30 years or after 60 years of age. However, ulcerative colitis can manifest at any age.
• Race and ethnicity: people of Ashkenazi Jewish descent are more likely to develop the disease.
• Family history: People with a family history of this condition are more prone to develop the disease.

Fistula, or an abnormal connection between two different organ systems, organs, vessels, or cavities is a rare but serious health condition that can have numerous underlying causes. Whether it has been present since birth in the form of congenital disorders or acquired later in life due to trauma, fistulas can greatly impact quality of life and are often painful and uncomfortable symptoms. Here we will take a closer look at the various causes of fistulas and other factors that can contribute to its formation.

How is Fistula Caused?

The fistula mostly results from an infection of the gland. Symptoms of anal fistula include anal discomfort, irritation, swelling, redness, and fluid drainage around the anus. Reasons for fistula occurrence include:

• Fistulas either form between organ-to-skin openings or between different organs. Fistulas usually develop due to chronic inflammation of tissues, either due to injury or disease.
• Anal fistulas usually develop as a result of a perianal abscess formed over an infected anal gland. Chronic inflammation and infection result in the erosion of nearby tissues and the formation of pus. Pus needs drainage and, therefore, may create its own drainage channel outside through an opening in the skin.
• If the fistula does not have an opening for the drainage channel, then it needs to be created by the healthcare provider to drain the abscess.
• Risk factors for the development of anal fistulas include:
• Infection of the anal gland
• Injury or trauma to the anal area
• Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease
• Sexually transmitted disease of the anal area
• Surgery or radiation therapy for anal cancer
• Previously drained anal abscess.

Cervical spondylosis, or cervical osteoarthritis, is a common degenerative condition of the head, neck and spine that can be caused by ageing or injury. If left untreated, it can lead to a number of troublesome symptoms such as chronic pain, neck stiffness with a reduced range of motion. In this article, we'll discuss what causes this medical condition and how you can manage it if it arises. Read on to learn more about the causes of cervical spondylosis so you can be informed and take steps towards prevention!

How is Cervical Spondylosis Caused?

With age, the spine undergoes changes that start with normal wear and tear and then result in changes in disks between vertebrae with time that cause cervical spondylosis. Other cervical spondylosis causes include:

• Bone spurs

This condition occurs when cartilage (connective tissue) in the joints of the vertebrae in the spine starts to break down and bone tissue rubs directly against the extra bone which presses the delicate areas of the spine like the spinal cord and nerves that result in pain. These abnormal bone growths develop along the edges of vertebrae called osteophytes or bone spurs that commonly occur with age.

• Dehydrated spinal discs

The spinal discs are present between the spinal bones which are thick and pad-like cushions that absorb the shock of physical activities su h as lifting or twisting. So between the disc is present a gel-like material which dries out with age that causes bones (spinal vertebrae) to rub together more resulting in pain.

• Herniated discs

Normal ageing can cause part of the spinal disk to tear and develop cracks. This condition is called herniation. The herniation allows the leakage of the internal cushioning material due to which the disk bulges out, resulting in pressure on nearby tissue or a spinal nerve in the spinal disc; thus causing pain, tingling or numbness that radiates down the arm.

• Injury

If a person has an injury to the neck because of a fall or car accident, it can result in cervical spondylosis which will accelerate the ageing process.

• Ligament stiffness

When injury limits your movements, it can lead to stiff and restricted neck movement over time, and may cause spondylosis.

• Overuse

Some occupations demand repetitive movements or heavy lifting like construction work or which can put extra pressure on the spine, causing early wear and tear.

• Degeneration

The spinal disk in the neck may slowly wear down with age, due to which, disks become thinner and soft bones will lose elasticity which will result in normal collapsing or settling of the disk.

• Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a progressive bone condition that causes cartilage in the joints to degenerate and wear down with time which will degenerate cartilages faster than normal ageing.

Are you familiar with the term 'cardiac arrest'? Well, don't worry if you aren’t, as it affects only a tiny percentage of people each year and is certainly not something to be taken lightly. A cardiac arrest is a medical condition in which your heart suddenly stops beating effectively. The good news is that most cases are entirely preventable; however, there are many causes that could potentially lead to this type of health issue. In this article, we will be discussing these potential causes of cardiac arrest in great detail so that we may become a bit more informed on what exactly can cause our hearts to fail us and how we have the power to do something about it!

How is Cardiac Arrest Caused?

To understand the causes of cardiac arrest, it is important to know more about the heart's signaling system. This includes:

• Arrhythmias

The heart generates the electric signals that control the rate and rhythm of the heartbeat. If the electrical signals are faulty or in excess, it can cause the heart to beat too rapidly, too slow or in an uncoordinated manner leading to changes in the heartbeat, also called arrhythmias. Some arrhythmias are not life-threatening, while others can lead to sudden cardiac arrest if the heart cannot pump blood around the body. Arrhythmias are one of the most common causes of cardiac arrest in young adults.

• Ventricular fibrillation

One of the most common reasons for cardiac arrest is ventricular fibrillation, in which rapid and irregular heart signals cause the lower heart chambers to quiver or fibrillate instead of pumping blood. Such heart conditions are more likely to have this type of heartbeat problem in case of cardiac arrest if they're severe or left untreated.

Other heart conditions that can result in sudden cardiac arrest include:

• Cardiomyopathy

This condition defines the inherited heart conditions which affect the electrical system of the heart, leading to a condition called Brugada syndrome, in which the walls in the heart muscle stretch and the heart muscle gets bigger or thicker.

• Congenital heart disease

This is a heart condition or defect that is present since birth, in which the children or adolescents have problems often due to a heart defect that they're born with. Adults who have undergone surgery to repair the congenital heart defect also have an elevated risk of sudden cardiac arrest with age.

• Heart valve disease

This is a condition where one or more of the heart valves don’t work properly due to leakage or narrowing of the heart valves, leading to stretching or thickening of the heart muscle and the chambers become enlarged or weak. This results in valve leakage, thus increasing the risk of developing a heart rhythm problem.

• Coronary artery disease

Coronary artery disease is a condition where cholesterol and other deposits build-up in the arteries, blocking blood flow to your heart, which can utlimately cause cardiac arrest.

• Heart attack

A heart attack, often due to conditions like coronary artery disease, can trigger ventricular fibrillation and sudden cardiac arrest. This can result in scar tissue in the heart and cause changes in the heartbeat.

• Long QT syndrome (LQTS)

Long QT syndrome and Brugada syndrome are conditions that have been reported to cause sudden cardiac arrest. These conditions cause the heart to beat in an unorganized manner, and the heart rhythm isn't quickly restored.

Other sudden cardiac arrest causes include:

• Hemorrhagic condition, in which there is a large amount of blood loss
• Hypoxia- a condition in which there is a severe drop in oxygen levels
• In the case of electrocution
• In case of a drug overdose

Have you been feeling like the world is getting a little bit too blurry lately? It could be cataracts. Cataracts, which are clouding of the lens of your eye, can cause blurred vision and affect your ability to see clearly. They are usually an age-related condition, but cataracts can also occur in younger adults or children as well. In this post, we will discuss the causes of cataract so that you can make sure to stay on top of any potential vision problems before they get worse.

How is Cataract caused?         

Discovering the root causes of cataract starts with understanding how they develop. As we age, the proteins in our eye lenses undergo degenerative processes that lead to denaturation and coagulation. This protein degeneration is what causes the loss of lens transparency and ultimately forms cataracts. While aging plays a major role in this disease, there are also other factors apart from age that can contribute to cataract development.

The following causes and risk factors are responsible for the occurrence of cataract:

• Aging: Increasing age tend to cause clouding of lenses and cause age-related or senile cataract. It is the most common cause and cataract type that occurs worldwide.
• Injury: Inflammation or injury of any type that affect lenses might cause cataract. Injury is one of the most common cataract reasons in one eye among young individuals. Eye condition like glaucoma is also responsible for cataract.
• Diseases: Certain diseases makes a person prone to cataract, which include:
  • Diseases that affect hormonal balance in the body like Hyperparathyroidism, Diabetes Mellitus, and Cretinism.
  • Diseases that affect whole body/systemic diseases like Atopic dermatitis, Neurofibromatosis type 2, and Myotonic dystrophy.
  • Diseases that affect eyes (ocular diseases) like Anterior Uveitis, retinitis pigmentosa, Stickler syndrome, Leber congenital amaurosis, etc.
  • Previous surgery in the eyes due to some reason may also cause cataract.
• Congenital reason: It refers to the presence of cataract from birth, which occurs mostly due to poor nutrition of the mother, infection of the mother with rubella and rubeola virus during pregnancy.
• Use of certain drugs: Drugs like corticosteroids and anticholinesterase inhibitors are known to cause cataract if consumed on a regular basis.
• Lack of nutritious food: Foods play a major role in the maintenance of overall health and also in the health of the eyes. Lack of a diet that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants is one of the reasons behind cataract.

• Lifestyle factors: Factors like daily smoking, less physical activity, obesity, and regular alcohol use may cause cataract.
• UV radiation treatment: Exposure to ultraviolet radiation due to various reasons, like for cancer treatment, may cause cataract. Similarly, exposure to ionizing radiation during certain cancers of the eyes or any other disease treatment might cause cataract.
• Chemical exposure: Exposure to certain chemicals like thallium, naphthalene, galactose and lactose is known to cause cataract.
• Blunt trauma in the eyes: Injury in the eyes that may be due to any blunt object like a rod, stick, chemical fall, wood, brick, cement, or injuries at the workplace might lead to cataract.

Psoriasis is a disease that causes inflammation due to the dysfunctioning of the immune system in the body. Psoriasis may show visible symptoms that include discoloured skin covered with scales. These thick, scaly areas are called plaques; raised plaques are also formed that may look different for different skin types. The skin cells accumulate on the surface of the skin that results in psoriasis plaques which cause itch, burn, and sting on any part of the body but most commonly found on the elbows, knees, and scalp. Let us look at the causes of psoriasis.

How is Psoriasis Caused?

The exact cause of psoriasis is unknown, but studies show it is related to an overactive immune system, in which a person’s immune system gets attacked by healthy skin cells by mistake, causing inflammation and impacting other organs and tissues in the body. Moreover, scientists do not fully understand what triggers the faulty immune cell activation against its cells, but they know that its activation involves a combination of genetics and environmental factors.

Some external factors that may increase the risk of developing psoriasis in a person include:

Problems with the immune system

One of the main types of cells of the immune system is called a T-cell which usually travels through the body to detect and fight invading germs, such as bacteria. But in the condition of psoriasis, the immune cells start to attack healthy skin cells causing the deepest skin layer to produce new skin cells within 3-4 days, which usually takes a month. This triggers the immune system to produce more T-cells. However, the exact reason for this problem is not known but certain factors like genes and environmental factors may play a role.

Genetics

People living with psoriasis are also known to have a family history of this condition, and researchers have pinpointed some genes that may contribute to its development. Different combinations of these genes may likely make people more prone to developing the condition.

However, having these genes does not necessarily mean a person will develop psoriasis and most of them play an important role in the function of the immune system which during the condition of psoriasis activates the immune response.

Other reasons for psoriasis:

In case of early psoriasis, the symptoms may go unnoticed but later get triggered with involvements of certain factors like:

• An injury to the skin like a cut, scrape, insect bite or sunburn; often known as the Koebner response.
• Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol
• Smoking
• Stress
• Hormonal changes in women during puberty and menopause
• Certain medicines like anti-malarial, and anti-inflammatory including ibuprofen, and ACE inhibitors
• Throat infections usually occur in children and young adults and sometimes trigger a form of psoriasis called guttate psoriasis which develops after a streptococcal bacteria infects the throat that may later develops into psoriasis.
• Some other immune disorders, such as HIV, heart-related disease, malaria or mental health problems

Conclusion

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease which in certain people can cause significant emotional and physical distress. Psoriasis is caused by a number of different factors. As there isn’t a way to entirely prevent psoriasis a right treatment can be given in a timely manner to patients living with psoriasis. Your health insurance plan might offer you coverage that allows you treat such conditions. One can reduce the risk by following their healthcare provider’s treatment, living a healthy lifestyle, taking good care of the skin and avoiding triggers that can cause an outbreak of symptoms. Understanding the causes of psoriasis can help in better managing this condition.

The above blog aims to provide general information about health and related topics. Any information provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials is not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for any medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It is important that you contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition characterised by the immune system mistakenly targeting and attacking healthy cells in the body. This results in painful swelling and inflammation in the affected areas. The primary targets of rheumatoid arthritis are the joints. Rheumatoid particularly targets joints in the hands, wrists, and knees. This damage caused by rheumatoid can result in persistent or chronic pain, a lack of balance, and deformities. Rheumatoid can impact other body tissues and lead to complications in organs like the lungs, heart, and eyes. By knowing the causes of rheumatoid arthritis, it is easy to get timely medical intervention.

How is Rheumatoid Arthritis caused?

The precise reason for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) remains unknown as of now, however, rheumatoid is generally associated with a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Several risk factors, as given below, contribute to the likelihood of developing rheumatoid arthritis:

1. Family history: Individuals with close relatives who have RA are at a higher risk of developing the condition.
2. Gender: Women and those designated female at birth face a two to threefold increased risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
3. Smoking: Smoking not only heightens the risk of RA but also exacerbates the severity of the disease.
4. Obesity: Having excess body weight increases the chances of developing RA.

Do you often suffer from chest pain, nausea and heartburn? Do you feel like the molten lava in your stomach may burn through your oesophagus any minute? If yes, then it’s time to take some measures against acidity for health. Acidity is a common condition where an excess production of acids in the stomach by the gastric glands creates irritation and a burning sensation known as ‘heartburn’. It can be due to either too much spicy food or simply because of improper diet plans adopted unconsciously. The long-term effects of acidity are quite serious and must be dealt with immediately. In this article, we'll discuss the main causes of acidity.

How is Acidity Caused?

So, what causes acidity? One of the most prevalent causes of acidity is an abnormality in the stomach known as a hiatal hernia. Typically, the diaphragm plays a role in retaining stomach acid where it belongs. However, in the presence of a hiatal hernia, acid can migrate upwards into the oesophagus, leading to the manifestation of acid reflux disease symptoms.

In addition to hiatal hernias, there are several other common risk factors associated with acid reflux disease:

• Consuming large meals or lying down shortly after eating can contribute to the condition.
• Being overweight or obese can cause acidity.
• Eating a substantial meal and subsequently lying on your back or bending at the waist can increase the issue.
• Snacking in close proximity to bedtime is also a recognised risk factor.
• Consuming specific foods such as citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, mint, garlic, onions, or spicy and fatty foods can trigger acid reflux.
• Certain beverages, including alcohol, carbonated drinks, coffee, or tea, have the potential to increase the condition.
• Tobacco use, such as smoking, is another risk factor for acid reflux disease.
• Lastly, being pregnant can predispose individuals to acid reflux condition

Gonorrhoea is an incredibly common yet often underrated sexually transmitted infection (STI). With millions of people worldwide estimated to get infected annually, it's one of the most prevalent conditions in our society - however, those who suffer from its telltale symptoms don't always receive adequate support or recognition. Although there is a wide range of risk factors associated with developing gonorrhoea, understanding what puts you at an increased risk can help you stay safe and healthy. To gain a better grasp on some of the primary causes, let’s take a look at the causes of gonorrhoea.

How is Gonorrhoea Caused?

Gonorrhoea is caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The bacteria is colloquially known as the clap. Gonorrhoea is a condition that can affect individuals of any age or gender who are sexually active. It can be transmitted during

• Oral, anal or vaginal intercourse
• Childbirth: There is a risk of transmitting gonorrhoea infection to the newborn baby

Those identified as male at birth are more inclined to exhibit symptoms if infected with gonorrhoea. However, it's important to note that signs of infection may not become evident until several weeks after initial exposure, creating the possibility of unwittingly transmitting the disease to sexual partners.

Other risk factors of gonorrhoea include:

• Having multiple sexual partners
• Having had a prior sexually transmitted disease
• Practising unsafe sexual intercourse