Directory of Diseases
Your central nervous system (CNS) includes the brain and spinal cord. When your symptoms are concerning for a problem in the CNS, this is a true medical emergency and an immediate trip to the emergency department is necessary. CNS lesions may include a stroke (clot or bleeding in the brain), mass (tumor or cyst in the brain), or other abnormalities. The brain and spinal cord do not have much space for swelling so delay in seeking medical care can result in permanent disability or even death.
Calcaneal bursitis is described as pain at the posterior heel or posterior ankle and is most commonly caused by issues with the Achilles (calcaneal) tendon or the associated bursae. The bursae are fluid-filled sacs at the back of the bones that act as a cushion and lubricant for the large joints of the body. Often, these sacs can become inflamed, often from overuse. This can be a painful condition limit the ability to walk or run. Calcaneal bursitis may occur when changing activity level such as starting an intense workout schedule.
Calcaneal fracture, also known as Lover's fracture and Don Juan fracture ( derived from the fact that a lover may jump from great heights while trying to escape from the lover's spouse) is a fracture of the calcaneus bone located in the heel. It is usually caused by a fall from height when one lands on his or her feet. The severity of this fracture can vary widely, as can the treatment. This is a very common injury and necessitates a consultation with an orthopedic doctor.
One cause of back pain can be the result of a tumor or cancer. Although this is very rare, there are a few specific symptoms that may indicate this condition. Cancer is more likely to occur in individuals over 50, be worst during the night when laying down, and be persistent and constant for more than 6 weeks. Individuals with a spinal tumor may also experience neurological symptoms such as changes in sensation, or a feeling of muscle fatigue and weakness. Consultation with a medical doctor and imaging of the spine is needed to make this diagnosis.
Cardiomyopathy is a potentially serious condition that is caused by damaged heart muscles which are incapable of functioning properly and as a result impede the heart's ability to meet the body's demands for oxygen and blood flow. There are many forms of cardiomyopathy, from hereditary to environmental causes. Most commonly cardiomyopathy presents as a constellation of symptoms referred to as congestive heart failure. Congestive heart failure results from weakness of the heart causing shortness of breath and leg swelling. The heart pumps blood through the arteries and veins. When the heart malfunctions, it may lead to fluid backing up. Left sided heart failure results in fluid backing up into the lungs causing pulmonary edema and breathing problems, and right heart failure produces fluid in the legs (edema) and the abdomen (ascites). If you think you have congestive heart failure you should go to the hospital and seek medical attention.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is caused by pressure or compression of the median nerve in the wrist. This nerve basically sensation to the palmar side of the thumb and the index finger and controls the muscular functions of the thumb. The median nerve goes through a tunnel in the wrist called the "carpal tunnel." Swelling in this tunnel causes compression of the nerve inside, resulting in the symptoms. Repetitive hand movements increase the risk of developing this disorder. Women, diabetic people, and patients with rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to get this condition.
Cat bites are very likely to become infected. The cat's teeth can penetrate deeply into the tissue causing a bacterial infection. The most common organism to infect a cat bite is a bacteria called Pasteurella multocida. It is important to quickly and carefully clean the wound throughly with soap and large amount of water; this can prevent infection. If there is bleeding, a clean towel or gauze should be pressed to the wound to slow or stop the bleeding. Cat bites that are considered "high risk" are bites where the tooth has actually penetrated the barrier of the skin and drawn blood. Bites associated with increased risk also may come from an unidentified cat. If bitten by a cat, a person may need tetanus immunizations, rabies immunization, and antibiotics.
