Category: Health Predispositions

What is polycystic ovary syndrome? Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a hormone disorder that affects people who have ovaries. People with PCOS may have high testosterone levels, irregular periods, and/or more ovarian follicles than usual (polycystic ovaries). Other common symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, acne, oily skin, and excess hair growth on the face,… Continue reading Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

What is preeclampsia? Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that causes persistent high blood pressure and in some cases, injury to organs like the liver and kidneys. The onset and severity of preeclampsia can vary greatly, but it typically develops later in pregnancy and resolves after delivery. Preeclampsia is usually diagnosed based on a combination of… Continue reading Preeclampsia

What is Hashimoto’s disease? Hashimoto’s disease (or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) is an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid. The thyroid is a gland in the lower part of the neck, just in front of the trachea. The thyroid produces thyroid hormone, which regulates many functions in the body like metabolism, body temperature, and heart rate. In… Continue reading Hashimoto’s Disease

What is asthma? Asthma is a chronic lung condition that occurs when the immune system overreacts to an environmental trigger, causing inflammation, increased mucus production inside the airways, and tightened muscles around the airways. Most cases of asthma are diagnosed during childhood, but asthma can develop at any time. How can asthma affect your health?… Continue reading Asthma

What are anxiety disorders? Everyone can sometimes experience anxiety in response to stressful events and situations. But anxiety disorders are a group of conditions where anxiety is overwhelming, doesn’t go away over time, and begins to interfere with daily life. Examples of anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and phobias.… Continue reading Anxiety and Anxiety Disorders

What is fibromyalgia? Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by chronic pain and tenderness throughout the body that lasts at least three months. Pain caused by fibromyalgia can come and go and can move around the body. Other symptoms can include moderate to extreme fatigue, poor sleep quality, and trouble thinking or concentrating. Although the cause… Continue reading Fibromyalgia

What is Alzheimer’s disease and how common is it?  Alzheimer’s disease is a form of dementia. It’s characterized by progressive memory loss, gradual cognitive decline, and personality changes. There are two different types of Alzheimer’s disease: late-onset Alzheimer’s disease and early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Both have symptoms that are much the same.  Typical signs and symptoms… Continue reading Alzheimer’s Disease & Genetics

Knowing T2D  Diet, weight, lifestyle, and genetics each influence one’s personal chances of developing type 2 diabetes, the most common form of diabetes.   But many of us are unaware of what could increase our chances of developing type 2 diabetes. More than a third of adults in the United States are prediabetic, and the vast… Continue reading Type 2 Diabetes & Your DNA

What is rosacea? Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that typically affects the central parts of the face, most commonly the cheeks and nose. Rosacea is often characterized by persistent redness or visible blood vessels near the surface of the skin, but symptoms vary from person to person. Scientists are still working to understand what… Continue reading Rosacea

What is psoriasis? Psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition most commonly characterized by itchy, discolored patches covered in silvery white flakes, called “scales,” that form on the skin. Psoriasis symptoms may come and go throughout life, and certain triggers can cause them to flare up. Psoriasis is not an infection and is not contagious. Psoriasis… Continue reading Psoriasis