Muscular dystrophy is a group of diseases that leads to progressive weakness and the loss of muscle mass. The condition is triggered due to mutations in genes, which hamper the production of proteins required to form healthy muscles. Generally, the symptoms start in childhood, especially affecting boys. A cure for muscular dystrophy is yet to be determined; still, experts suggest specific treatments and management techniques to slow the course of the disease. Symptoms The primary sign of the condition is progressive muscle weakness. A few other signs may begin at different ages and muscle groups based on the type of muscular dystrophy one develops. The most common symptoms are given below and may occur in younger individuals with Duchenne-type muscular atrophy. Falling frequently Trouble jumping and running Waddling gait Difficulty rising from a lying or sitting position Starting to walk on the toes Pain and stiffness in the muscles Difficulty with learning Unusually large calf muscles Delayed growth One may also experience other types, such as Becker muscular dystrophy. Here, the signs are similar to those of Duchenne muscular dystrophy but may occur gradually. Causes Specific genes are involved in making proteins to protect muscle fibers. However, unusual mutations in these genes may result in muscular dystrophy.

Cancer is triggered due to an uncontrolled multiplication of healthy cells in the body that affects vital organs and functions. Lung cancer is detected when these cells mutate, affecting the lung’s ability to absorb oxygen. It is a progressive disorder and cannot be completely cured. The risk is high among patients exposed to elements that worsen the cancer progression. Know about the causes, symptoms, and treatment options to understand the condition better. Causes of lung cancer Exposure to pollutants Exposure to known pollutants and carcinogens is one of the significant risk factors associated with lung cancer. Pollutants comprise chemicals and particulate matter that damage the air sacs in the lungs. This comprises the ability of the lungs to absorb oxygen. Radon gas Radon is one of the most severe triggers of lung cancer. Exposure to this gas is quite common in residential homes as this compound is naturally present in the soil. Over time the gasses creep up into the building’s foundation and leak inside the home. Since this is a colorless, odorless gas, it’s quite difficult to identify this risk without smoke and gas detectors. Genes Certain genetic conditions or mutations in the genome sequence can also trigger lung cancer, especially if there is a history of the condition diagnosed among close family members.

Cancer that starts in the prostate, the reproductive gland that produces seminal fluid, is known as prostate cancer. It is one of the most common cancers affecting people assigned male at birth (AMAB). Some reports suggest that one in every eight men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lives. Although a serious disease, healthcare experts say it is treatable and curable when a person is diagnosed in the initial stages. Symptoms of prostate cancer While one may not experience any signs of prostate cancer early on, as the condition progresses, it may cause some warning signs. – Trouble during urination – Weaker stream of urine – Blood in the urine – Bone pain or pain in the back, hips, and/or pelvis – A frequent urge to urinate, mainly at night – Tiredness or fatigue Causes and risk factors Prostate cancer’s exact cause remains unknown, but researchers believe it develops as a result of specific changes in the glandular cells. These changes are referred to as prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) and are observed in over half the population of men over 50. The changes occur slowly, allowing any tumors to be diagnosed before cancer spreads. Although the causes aren’t known, certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of prostate cancer.

Myasthenia gravis is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies trigger the destruction of vital nerve links responsible for muscle control. The condition usually affects women between the ages of 20 and 30 and men over 50. Myasthenia gravis is a chronic disease with progressive symptoms that do not have a permanent cure, but they can be managed with the right treatment options. It’s important to spot the signs for early diagnosis of the condition. Eye problems People commonly experience drooping eyelids on either one or both eyes coupled with vertical or horizontal double vision. This condition is also known as ocular myasthenia because the symptoms are limited to the eye muscles. Trouble eating With muscle weakness in the jaws, basic tasks like chewing food or drinking liquids can also become challenging. One may also get tired eating halfway through a meal. Changes in facial expression Some people also experience a change in facial expression due to compromised muscle tone. For instance, those affected might be trying to smile as they usually do, but the condition can make it seem like they are snarling. Additionally, myasthenia gravis can predominantly affect the facial region, starting with the muscles that control speech triggering impaired speech and a nasal voice.

The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food and deriving nutrients to support overall health. But, there are some instances when the system faces certain hindrances, leading to one falling sick. For instance, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) can affect the pancreas, including cystic fibrosis, and may lead to difficulty in digesting foods. This condition can interrupt the normal functions of the digestive system, affecting nutrient absorption and potentially triggering additional health concerns. Signs and symptoms Those with EPI may struggle to obtain the right amount of nutrients from their regular foods. So, the most common symptoms one might experience are associated with digestive health. These may include diarrhea and fatty stools. Additionally, some individuals may experience abdominal pain, constipation, and bloating. Moreover, these symptoms may even make one feel full after eating a small portion of food due to the excessive pressure on the digestive system. Since EPI symptoms resemble other digestive issues, diagnosing and finding the right cause of the condition can be challenging. So, it is important to seek medical help and have the symptoms checked and evaluated by a healthcare professional for accurate diagnosis and treatment. Treatment The treatment option prescribed for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) and its associated signs may differ from one person to another.

Ensuring the health and safety of infants is essential for their overall well-being and growth. But babies are more susceptible to several health problems, including respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common condition that leads to infection of the lungs and respiratory tract. Most children contract this virus by the age of two. So, adults must familiarize themselves with the symptoms and the relevant management options in order to address RSV in children at the earliest. Symptoms The symptoms of RSV commonly appear about four to six days after the child is exposed to the virus. It’s important for the caretakers to look for common signs such as rapid, shallow breathing, coughing, feeding difficulties, irritability, and unusual tiredness. Some infants may even exhibit signs of respiratory distress, characterized by the inward movement of the chest muscles and skin with each breath. While most children recover in one to two weeks after contraction of the virus, some may experience recurring wheezing. A severe infection may occur in premature infants and may require admission into a healthcare facility. Caregiving adults who notice any unusual symptoms in infants must promptly seek medical attention before the condition worsens. Management options Remember that only a healthcare professional should address RSV in infants.

A respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection can affect people of all ages, including infants and young children. It is the most common trigger for inflammation of the lungs’ airways as well as pneumonia in babies. The virus typically affects the nose, throat, and lungs and causes cold-like symptoms. Upon noticing RSV symptoms in children, it is crucial to seek expert guidance and get appropriate care to prevent further health complications. Symptoms Most babies are likely to contract an RSV infection at least once by the time they are two years old. Some might even be re-infected and develop a chronic illness. As an RSV infection causes cold-like symptoms, it may not seem serious initially. That said, the condition could worsen if left unchecked. So, it is important to keep an eye out for a few symptoms. Runny nose Fever Trouble eating, drinking, or swallowing Cough, which could lead to wheezing or breathing issues Flaring nostrils Strain while breathing Bluish lips and fingertips As these cold-like symptoms are easy to dismiss, consulting a healthcare professional and seeking a diagnosis is crucial to identify and treat an RSV infection. This is especially important in the case of high-risk babies as if they contract such an infection, they are susceptible to severe respiratory issues and pneumonia.  Preventive measures One can take a few simple measures at home to lower the risk of contracting an RSV infection.