Health conditions and diseases starting with P. Explore reliable details on symptoms, causes, and treatments to protect your well-being.
Nerve agents are among the most lethal chemical warfare substances, classified under organophosphorus compounds. They disrupt the nervous system by irreversibly inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, leading to the accumulation of acetylcholine, resulting in continuous nerve stimulation, paralysis, respiratory failure, and potentially death. The most notorious nerve agents include: These agents may be deployed through aerosol, vapor, or
Neonatal ophthalmia, also known as ophthalmia neonatorum, is an acute conjunctival infection occurring within the first 28 days of life. The condition is predominantly caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, and less frequently, herpes simplex virus and bacterial flora from the birth canal. Without prompt intervention, ophthalmia neonatorum can lead to corneal ulceration, blindness, and
Group B Streptococcus (Streptococcus agalactiae, GBS) is a leading cause of severe infections in newborns, including sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis. GBS is typically found in the lower gastrointestinal and genitourinary tracts of healthy adults and may be vertically transmitted from mother to child during labor or delivery. Two clinical forms are recognized: Effective prevention of
Nausea and vomiting are protective reflexes triggered by the central nervous system in response to a wide variety of stimuli, including gastrointestinal irritation, vestibular dysfunction, toxins, medications, and psychological stress. The brainstem houses the vomiting center, which receives input from the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ), vestibular system, and vagal afferents from the gastrointestinal tract. These
Mycobacterium avium complex (MAC) refers to a group of nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), including Mycobacterium avium and Mycobacterium intracellulare. These organisms are commonly found in the environment—particularly in water, soil, and dust—and are opportunistic pathogens. While MAC rarely causes illness in individuals with healthy immune systems, it poses significant risk to immunocompromised populations, particularly those with
Muscle cramps linked to heat exhaustion, commonly referred to as heat cramps, are painful, involuntary muscle spasms occurring during or after intense physical activity in hot conditions. They typically affect major muscle groups such as the calves, thighs, and shoulders. These cramps signal early-stage heat illness and indicate electrolyte imbalance due to excessive sweating. Prompt
Motion sickness is a common condition triggered by repetitive motion from vehicles such as cars, boats, airplanes, or virtual simulation. It occurs when the inner ear, eyes, and sensory nerves send conflicting signals to the brain. This sensory mismatch leads to symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and cold sweats. Those most susceptible include children
Meningococcal meningitis is a severe bacterial infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis, which inflames the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Despite advancements in treatment, the disease poses a high risk of mortality and long-term complications if not prevented effectively. Outbreaks occur globally, particularly in areas with limited access to vaccines and healthcare infrastructure.
Measles remains a highly contagious viral illness with significant public health implications. Prompt and evidence-based intervention following exposure is essential to prevent transmission and limit outbreaks. Implementing robust post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) strategies is critical in high-risk settings such as schools, healthcare facilities, and communities with low vaccination coverage. Understanding Measles Transmission Dynamics Measles is caused
Preventing maternal-fetal transmission of HIV is a global health priority, with effective interventions reducing transmission rates to below 1%. Transmission can occur during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding. An evidence-based, integrated approach combining antiretroviral therapy (ART), obstetric management, and infant prophylaxis is essential to minimize the risk. Understanding Maternal-Fetal (Vertical) Transmission of HIV Vertical transmission refers