An Overview of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Parkinson’s

DBS will not cure the disease, but it may improve the symptoms thatmedicine for Parkinsonsis not adequately treating. It may result in more on time (a longer duration of feeling good) during the day. Verywell / Brianna Gilmartin How Does Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinsons Work? Deep brain stimulation works by modifying abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Then, the leads are placed via small holes that a surgeon drills in the skull....

April 18, 2025 · 4 min · 690 words · Antonio Gonzales

An Overview of Dermatomyositis

Research suggests that dermatomyositis is anautoimmune disorderin which the body attacks its own healthy cells. The defining symptom is a skin rash that develops or appears at the same time as muscle weakness. In children, the onset of juvenile dermatomyositis takes place between 5 and 15. DermNet / CC BY-NC-ND While there’s no known cure for dermatomyositis, symptoms can be treated. They include: This photo contains content that some people may find graphic or disturbing....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 240 words · Timothy Lamb

An Overview of Diverticular Disease

Diverticulitis can cause abdominal pain, fever, and bleeding. Thelarge intestineis an organ that includes the colon, the rectum, and the anal canal. The rectum is where stool is stored until its passed out of the anus as abowel movement. Verywell Symptoms Diverticula usually dont cause any symptoms. Thats why most people wont know that they have them unless theyre found during a colonoscopy. Complications may occur in some cases, which can lead to rectal bleeding and significant pain....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 212 words · Cynthia Parker

An Overview of Dizziness and Headaches in Children

It also explains when it is time to see a healthcare provider. Verywell / Theresa Chiechi What Causes Dizziness and Headaches in Children? Broadly speaking, the causes of dizziness in children can be broken down into seven categories. Verywell / Theresa Chiechi Migraines Migraineis a neurological disorder characterized by episodes of throbbing pain on the side of the head. Migraines are the most common cause of dizziness in kids, accounting for 33% of cases....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 351 words · Angela Crosby

An Overview of Dravet Syndrome

Dravetsyndrome is a rare disorder characterized byseizuresand developmental problems. The seizures begin before age 1 year. The cognitive, behavioral, and physical problems begin around age 2 or 3 years. Illustration by Jessica Olah, Verywell Unfortunately, you might’t outgrow Dravet syndrome. It’s a lifelong condition due to a genetic defect in the SCN1A gene. The life expectancy of a child with Dravet syndrome is not the average lifespan. However, most individuals with Dravet syndrome do reach adulthood....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 402 words · Eric Hale

An Overview of Dry Eye Syndrome

The condition is uncomfortable and it can interfere with your quality of life. Dry eye disease can vary from mild to extremely severe. Getting treatment for your dry eyes can make a big difference in easing your discomfort. Illustration by Brianna Gilmartin, Verwell You may experience these symptoms all the time or intermittently. The tears are similar to the tear production that is triggered when something gets in your eye....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 427 words · Mary Doyle

An Overview of Dry Nose in COPD

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive condition that makes it difficult for you to breathe. Several home remedies and over-the-counter medications can help re-moisturize your nasal passages and prevent uncomfortable nasal dryness. Symptoms The medical term for nasal dryness isrhinitis sicca. Eric Audras / ONOKY / Getty Images The condition itself is relatively harmless but may be uncomfortable. Treatment There is no hard-and-fast solution for dry nose when you’re battling COPD....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 248 words · Eric Lynn

An Overview of E. Coli

Escherichia coli(E. coli) are bacteria found throughout our environment, in animals, and in humans. Many strains of E. coli are harmless, but some can cause illnesses ranging from mild to severe. They can also contaminate beef when the animals are slaughtered. Illustration by JR Bee, Verywell The incubation period is defined as the time between exposure to the germs and the onset of symptoms. Shiga toxin-producing E. coli is to blame for many foodborne illness outbreaks....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 285 words · Eddie Bennett

An Overview of Elephantiasis

When symptoms do occur (often years later), they can lead to extensive disfigurement and disability. These symptoms are permanent and can be so debilitating that they keep people from working. The three most visible and concerning manifestations of lymphatic filariasis are lymphedema, elephantiasis, and hydrocele. Caitlin M. Worrell, MPH/CDC/CDC Connects This inflammation can sometimes be accompanied by fever and be quite painful. Elephantiasis Elephantiasis is when the skin and underlying tissues become abnormally thick....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 302 words · Nathan Kim

An Overview of Emergency Contraception

Depending on the method used, it either prevents ovulation or fertilization of an egg. Emergency contraception can also be safely used by teenagers. Options and How They Work Over the past few years, emergency contraception options have greatly expanded. Justin Sullivan / Getty Images However, Ella blocks the activity of the progesterone in the body. Such options include: Oral contraceptives used for regular contraception can also be used as EC....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 544 words · Leslie Davis

An Overview of Epidermolysis Bullosa

Though EB is considered a rare disease, diseases in this group affect nearly half a million people globally. Symptoms Blisters are the key symptom of EB. These often appear in infancy. Verywell / JR Bee Unlike someone without EB, these blisters may form with only minimal pressure on the skin. These may become chronic, painful wounds. In some people with EB, only the skin is affected, but other symptoms are possible....

April 18, 2025 · 6 min · 1113 words · Barbara Holt

An Overview of Fabry Disease

These compounds pile up in lysosomeswhich are present in cells and all organsover time and cause harm. It is passed down through the X chromosome. The disease was first reported in 1898 by Drs. Verywell / JR Bee However, individuals with Fabry disease may not develop all of these symptoms. Reproduced with permission from A DermNet New Zealandwww.dermnetnz.org2023. Later manifestations may involve the nervous system, a reduced ability to sweat, the heart, and kidneys....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 403 words · Christopher Moon

An Overview of Flying With Cancer

Air Travel With Cancer Flying with cancer can sometimes have significant benefits. In some cases, people may need to fly to the cancer center where they will be treated. In general, any incisions should be well healed and any drains removed. Erik Witsoe / EyeEm / Getty Images TSA recommends calling their helpline 72 hours before travel to discuss the screening process. Medications and Medical Devices Many people with cancer will need to travel with medications or medical devices....

April 18, 2025 · 4 min · 677 words · Susan Mullins