Infections are a group of conditions related to a breakdown or dysfunction of the immune system. The body is constantly exposed to infectious agents, including bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses. Some of these infectious agents are harmless and even beneficial to humans. However, many of these agents can be harmful and result in serious infections with serious symptoms and complications.
Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. In Type 2 diabetes the cells in the body ignore the insulin and do not allow the sugar to be absorbed. The result is a build up of glucose in the blood. A common initial symptom of type 2 is a faint smell of fruit or vegetable odor on the breath or urine (referred to as sweet urine).
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder in which airways narrow, spasm or constrict, become inflamed, and produce mucus. This can cause a feeling of shortness of breath, labored breathing, coughing, or gasping. Conditions that can trigger an asthma attack include allergies, cold air, cold viruses, drugs, irritants, exercise or even emotions.
Arthritis is an inflammatory joint disease that affects over 40 million people. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis can affect anyone at any age, including children. The incidence of arthritis increases with age, but nearly three out of every five sufferers are under age 65. Arthritis affects the joints but can also cause problems with bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and any bodily organ or system.
An allergy is an abnormal over-reaction from the immune system as a result of exposure to a particular substance. Sensitive substances could include mold spores, pollen, fungi, chemicals, insect venom, medications or certain foods. These substances can be inhaled, swallowed, or come in contact with the skin. Reactions could include itching, sneezing, difficulty breathing, or skin rash.