What is glaucoma? Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that occurs when the nerve in the back of the eye (called the optic nerve) is damaged, most commonly due to high eye pressure. Optic nerve damage can cause gradual vision loss that may start as blind spots or loss of side (peripheral) vision and… Continue reading Glaucoma
Author: Brianna Thierfelder
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
What is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS, is a disorder that impacts the large intestine. It causes symptoms like abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel movements, including diarrhea, constipation, or both. The cause of IBS is not well understood. Researchers think it may involve multiple related factors, including… Continue reading Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers
What are basal and squamous cell skin cancers? Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are the two most common types of skin cancer. They begin in basal cells and squamous cells, which are found in the outer layer of the skin. The most common cause of basal and squamous cell skin cancers… Continue reading Basal and Squamous Cell Skin Cancers
Melanoma
What is melanoma? Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer. It begins in melanocytes, which are cells that make melanin — the pigment that gives the skin its color. The most common cause of melanoma is too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun (including through clouds and glass windows). In… Continue reading Melanoma
Nearsightedness
What is nearsightedness? Nearsightedness, also called myopia, is a common eye condition that affects distance vision. Most cases of nearsightedness develop in childhood and stabilize in severity by early adulthood. People with nearsightedness tend to see nearby objects clearly, but objects farther away are blurry or unfocused. This occurs when the shape of the eye… Continue reading Nearsightedness
Diverticulitis
What is diverticulitis? Especially as people age, weak spots in the intestinal tract give way to form small pouches or sacs. These pouches are called “diverticula.” (One pouch is called a “diverticulum.”) Scientists don’t know exactly why these pouches form, but it is likely due to a combination of factors including weakening of the intestinal… Continue reading Diverticulitis
