Introduction A herniated or “ruptured” disc is a common source of neck pain and arm pain. Discs are the shock-absorbing pads that are between vertebrae, the series of small bones that make up your spine. Your cervical spine is located…

Introduction A hernia results when the supportive muscle layer that covers the intestines is weakened or ruptures, allowing a portion of the intestine or tissue to protrude through it. A hernia may or may not cause symptoms. It may appear…

Introduction Hepatitis means that the liver is inflamed. Liver inflammation can occur for several reasons, and there are different types of hepatitis. Hepatitis B and C result from viral infections. Hepatitis B and C are transmitted from an infected person…

Introduction Cracked heels (heel fissures) are a common foot condition. The condition develops in dry skin or calluses on the heel if there is too much pressure on the skin. Moisturizing creams, clinical skin treatments, heel cups, or insoles can…

Introduction Heart disease, also called cardiovascular disease, is a common problem in the United States. It occurs when the heart and blood vessels do not function properly. The most common cause is narrowing or blockage of the arteries that supply…

Introduction A heart attack is a life-threatening emergency condition. Heart attack, medically termed myocardial infarction (MI), is the leading cause of death for men and women. A heart attack occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygenated blood…

Introduction Partial or complete hearing loss (deafness) may be temporary or permanent, depending on the type and cause. Some people are born with an inability to hear and for others, hearing loss may develop over time. You should contact your…

Introduction Hair loss, also referred to as alopecia or balding, is a very common condition. Balding is very common in men, although both men and women tend to lose hair thickness as they age. In most cases, hair loss is…

Introduction Gout is a disorder that can cause sudden joint pain. It occurs most commonly in the big toe, although it may affect other joints. The buildup of uric acid, a substance found naturally in the body and in certain…

Introduction Glaucoma is an eye disorder that occurs from damage to the optic nerve. The optic nerve carries nerve signals about what you see to your brain for processing. Glaucoma most frequently results from an imbalance of fluid production and…