The liver and pancreas are two organs that work together to produce digestive enzymes. These enzymes travel through a duct called the biliary system and are released into the small intestine to help with the digestion of food.The sphincter of Oddi is a muscle located at the junction of the biliary system and the small intestine. It acts as a valve, opening to release enzymes into the small intestine and closing to prevent them from flowing back into the biliary system.Sphin...

Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is a condition that affects approximately 25 to 50 percent of people who have previously had poliomyelitis (polio). Although there is no cure for PPS, there are treatments available that can help manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life.There are three main types of treatment for PPS:Medication: There are a variety of medications available that can assist in relieving the pain, fatigue, and muscle weakness that are...

Central pain syndrome is a neurological condition caused by damage to or dysfunction of the central nervous system (CNS), which includes the brain, brainstem, and spinal cord. This can result from a variety of injuries or diseases, such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and cerebral palsy.Symptoms vary depending on the person and the extent of the damage to the CNS but can include burning or aching pain, hypersensitivity to touch or temperature cha...

Erythromelalgia is a rare condition that typically affects the extremities, causing episodes of burning pain and redness. The condition is often associated with increased blood flow and temperature changes in the affected area. In some cases, erythromelalgia can also cause numbness or tingling.The exact cause of erythromelalgia is unknown, but it is believed to be the result of abnormal blood vessel function. This may be due to an underlying condition such as diabe...

If you are reading this, chances are that you or someone you know suffers from burning mouth syndrome (BMS). This condition is characterized by a burning sensation in the mouth that can last for weeks, months, or even years. The cause of BMS is unknown, but it is thought to be related to nerve damage. There is no cure for BMS, but there are ways to manage the condition and lessen the symptoms.In this beginner's guide, we will explore the following:What caus...

Alpha-Gal Allergy, an emerging condition, has garnered increased attention in recent years. Triggered by the bite of the Lone Star tick, this allergy necessitates significant lifestyle adjustments for those affected. Understanding and managing Alpha-Gal Allergy can feel daunting, but with the right guidance and resources, it is possible to live a fulfilling life despite its challenges.This management guide serves as an invaluable resource for anyone navigating the ...

Discs protect the bones (vertebrae) that make up the spine in the back. These discs are round, like small pillows, and have a tough outer layer (annulus) that surrounds the nucleus. Discs are made of cartilage and are between each of the vertebrae in the spine. They function as shock absorbers for the vertebrae.A herniated disc also called a bulged, slipped, or ruptured disc happens when a piece of the disc nucleus is pushed through a tear or break in the annulus a...

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a disorder that can manifest itself in a patient after chickenpox. The chickenpox virus, which causes the itchy, blistering rash we associate with a childhood disease, remains latent in the nerve cells of a person after they have recovered from the disease. Shingles are the result of the virus becoming active again, which can happen in certain people.When nerve cells are injured as a result of shingles, a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia can...

Adult scoliosis refers to a lateral curvature of the spine that can develop at any stage of life. It affects approximately 6 to 9 million individuals in the United States, accounting for 2-3% of the population. A two-decade-long study found that around 40% of adults with scoliosis experienced varying degrees of bone abnormalities over time.Although scoliosis is most often identified during adolescence, it can also develop in adulthood. Adult scoliosis may arise fro...

Myositis is a general term for a group of rare autoimmune diseases that cause inflammation of the muscles. This inflammation can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty in moving. The cause of myositis is unknown, but it is thought to be related to an overactive immune system.There are several different types of myositis, each with its own set of symptoms. The most common type, dermatomyositis, causes a distinctive rash in addition to muscle weakness and inflammatio...

Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is a disorder that can manifest itself in a patient after chickenpox. The chickenpox virus, which causes the itchy, blistering rash we associate with a childhood disease, remains latent in the nerve cells of a person after they have recovered from the disease. Shingles are the result of the virus becoming active again, which can happen in certain people.When nerve cells are injured as a result of shingles, a condition known as postherpe...

Thoracic outlet syndrome can take years to diagnose. The symptoms, including shoulder and neck pain, arm tingling, and hand numbness, frequently overlap with other conditions. Once someone receives a diagnosis, clear self-management guidance is hard to find.This guide provides a structured 6-week plan for managing thoracic outlet syndrome at home. It is written for beginners with no background in anatomy or physical therapy, and it focuses on the practical strategi...