Conditions A TO Z – Page 2 – Lambeth Health Press

Coryza (Common Cold)

Coryza, commonly known as the common cold, is a mild viral infection of the upper respiratory tract, mainly affecting the nose and throat. It is self-limiting and usually resolves within 7 to 10 days without the need for specific treatment. Despite being a benign condition, it contributes significantly to lost work and school days and can lead to complications, particularly in vulnerable groups. Causes The common cold is mainly caused by viruses, with over 200 different types identified. The most common viruses include: Rhinoviruses (majority of cases) Coronaviruses (other than COVID-19 types) Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) Adenoviruses Parainfluenza viruses Pathophysiology The virus enters the body via the nose or mouth

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Deep Vein Thrombosis

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition where a blood clot forms in a deep vein, most commonly in the legs. It can cause swelling, pain, and redness. The main concern with DVT is that part of the clot can break off, travel to the lungs, and cause a life-threatening condition called pulmonary embolism (PE). Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent serious complications. Causes Blood flow slowing down (stasis) such as during long periods of immobility Damage to the blood vessel wall (trauma, surgery, inflammation) Increased tendency of blood to clot (hypercoagulable states) Cancer and chemotherapy Pregnancy and postpartum period Hormone therapy, especially oestrogen-containing medications like oral contraceptives

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Dengue

Dengue is a viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected Aedes mosquitoes, primarily Aedes aegypti. It is common in tropical and subtropical regions and is considered a major public health concern globally. Although not endemic to the UK, dengue can affect travellers returning from endemic areas. Dengue ranges in severity from mild illness to severe, life-threatening complications such as dengue haemorrhagic fever and dengue shock syndrome. Causes Dengue is caused by the dengue virus (DENV), which belongs to the Flaviviridae family. There are four closely related serotypes (DENV-1 to DENV-4). Infection with one serotype provides lifelong immunity to that type but not to others. A second infection

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Diabetes Mellitus

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that affects the way the body processes blood sugar (glucose). It occurs when the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or can’t use the insulin it produces effectively. Insulin is a hormone made by the pancreas that helps glucose enter cells to be used for energy. Without proper management, diabetes can lead to serious health complications. Causes There are different types of diabetes, each with different causes: Type 1 diabetes: Caused by an autoimmune reaction where the body attacks its own insulin-producing cells in the pancreas Type 2 diabetes: Usually due to insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency, often linked to lifestyle factors Gestational

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Ear Disorders

Ear disorders cover a wide range of conditions affecting the external, middle, or inner ear. They can cause symptoms like hearing loss, pain, discharge, balance problems, and tinnitus. Ear problems can impact quality of life significantly and may be temporary or permanent depending on the underlying cause and timely treatment. Causes Infections: Otitis externa (outer ear infection), otitis media (middle ear infection), labyrinthitis (inner ear infection) Trauma: Barotrauma from pressure changes, perforated eardrum, head injuries Wax impaction: Build-up of earwax causing blockage and discomfort Tumours: Rare, such as cholesteatoma or acoustic neuroma Autoimmune diseases: Affecting the inner ear structures Congenital abnormalities: Structural problems from birth Degenerative changes: Like presbycusis (age-related

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Foreign Body in the Ear

Foreign bodies in the ear are common, especially in children, but can occur in adults too. They can lead to discomfort, hearing loss, and infection if not promptly recognised and managed. Early and safe removal is essential to prevent complications and preserve ear function. Causes Inorganic objects: Beads, small toys, buttons, stones Organic materials: Food particles, insects, cotton wool, seeds Accidental insertion: Common in children during play Intentional insertion: Seen in psychiatric illness or in prisoners Trauma-related: Parts of hearing aids or broken cotton bud tips lodged during cleaning Pathophysiology The foreign body may cause a local inflammatory reaction. Organic materials tend to swell and worsen symptoms by exerting pressure

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Hypertension

Hypertension, commonly known as high blood pressure, is a long-term medical condition where the force of blood against the artery walls is persistently too high. It is often called a “silent killer” because it usually has no symptoms but can lead to serious complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure if not treated. Hypertension is one of the leading preventable causes of early death worldwide. Causes Primary (essential) hypertension: No identifiable cause, develops gradually over many years Secondary hypertension: Caused by another condition such as kidney disease, endocrine disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism, Cushing’s syndrome), obstructive sleep apnoea, certain medications (like steroids, NSAIDs, oral contraceptives), or excessive alcohol use Pathophysiology Hypertension

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Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It affects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Although many cases are mild, influenza can cause severe illness and death, especially in vulnerable groups. Annual vaccination and good public health measures are key to prevention. Causes Influenza is caused by infection with influenza viruses. There are three main types affecting humans: Influenza A Influenza B Influenza C (causes milder symptoms) Influenza A and B are responsible for seasonal epidemics. Influenza A viruses are further classified into subtypes based on surface proteins (e.g., H1N1, H3N2). Pathophysiology Once inhaled, the virus binds to epithelial cells in the

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Iron-Deficiency Anaemia

Iron-deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the most common type of anaemia worldwide. It occurs when the body does not have enough iron to produce sufficient haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. In the UK, IDA is commonly encountered in both primary and secondary care and is often a sign of underlying chronic disease or blood loss. Identifying and managing the underlying cause is just as important as treating the anaemia itself. Causes The most common causes of iron-deficiency anaemia include: Chronic blood loss (e.g., heavy menstruation, gastrointestinal bleeding due to ulcers, polyps, or cancers) Inadequate dietary intake of iron Poor absorption of iron (e.g., coeliac disease, post-gastrectomy,

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