Health Encyclopedia

Know Your
Condition

Symptoms, precautions, and remedies for common diseases — clearly explained.

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Metabolic
Diabetes
A chronic condition affecting how the body processes blood sugar (glucose), leading to high blood sugar levels over time.
Symptoms
Frequent urination Excessive thirst Fatigue Blurred vision Slow healing wounds Unexplained weight loss
Precautions
Monitor blood sugar Low-sugar diet Regular exercise Avoid smoking
Remedies
Insulin therapy Metformin Bitter melon Fenugreek seeds
Overview
Type 1 diabetes is autoimmune; Type 2 is lifestyle-related. Both require ongoing management. Regular HbA1c testing every 3 months is recommended. Foot care and eye checkups are essential to prevent complications.
When to see a doctor
If blood sugar exceeds 300 mg/dL, or you experience confusion, chest pain, or difficulty breathing — seek emergency care immediately.
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Cardiovascular
Hypertension
Persistently elevated blood pressure in arteries, often called the "silent killer" due to its lack of obvious symptoms.
Symptoms
Severe headache Nosebleeds Shortness of breath Chest pain Vision changes Dizziness
Precautions
Reduce salt intake Limit alcohol Manage stress Regular BP monitoring
Remedies
ACE inhibitors Beta blockers Garlic supplements DASH diet
Overview
Normal BP is below 120/80 mmHg. Stage 1 hypertension is 130–139/80–89 mmHg. Uncontrolled hypertension dramatically increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.
When to see a doctor
BP above 180/120 mmHg is a hypertensive crisis. Call emergency services immediately if accompanied by chest pain or neurological symptoms.
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Respiratory
Asthma
A chronic inflammatory disease of the airways causing episodes of wheezing, breathlessness, and coughing.
Symptoms
Wheezing Chest tightness Dry cough at night Breathlessness Rapid breathing
Precautions
Avoid triggers Use air purifiers Keep inhaler handy Avoid cold air
Remedies
Bronchodilators Corticosteroids Ginger tea Breathing exercises
Overview
Common triggers include pollen, dust mites, pet dander, smoke, and exercise. Asthma is manageable with the right medication plan and by identifying personal triggers through an asthma action plan.
When to see a doctor
Seek emergency care if the inhaler provides no relief, lips turn blue, or breathing becomes severely labored. This is a life-threatening attack.
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Neurological
Migraine
A neurological condition characterized by intense, debilitating headaches often accompanied by sensory disturbances.
Symptoms
Throbbing headache Nausea & vomiting Light sensitivity Aura (visual) Sound sensitivity
Precautions
Track triggers Regular sleep schedule Stay hydrated Limit screen time
Remedies
Triptans Cold compress Magnesium Dark quiet room
Overview
Migraines affect 1 in 7 people worldwide. Common triggers include hormonal changes, certain foods (aged cheese, wine), stress, and irregular sleep. Keeping a headache diary helps identify patterns.
When to see a doctor
Sudden "thunderclap" headache, headache with fever and stiff neck, or headache after head injury requires immediate emergency evaluation.
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Infectious
Typhoid
A bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, spread through contaminated food and water in areas with poor sanitation.
Symptoms
High sustained fever Stomach pain Weakness Headache Rose-colored spots Loss of appetite
Precautions
Drink boiled water Wash hands frequently Get vaccinated Avoid street food
Remedies
Antibiotics Oral rehydration Rest & fluids Bland diet
Overview
Typhoid fever is most common in developing nations. The Widal test or blood culture confirms diagnosis. Without treatment, fever can last 3–4 weeks and complications like intestinal perforation can occur.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor immediately for fever lasting more than 3 days, especially after travel to endemic areas. Early antibiotic treatment is critical.
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Musculoskeletal
Arthritis
Inflammation of one or more joints causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion — most common in older adults.
Symptoms
Joint pain Morning stiffness Swelling Redness Reduced mobility
Precautions
Maintain healthy weight Low-impact exercise Protect joints Anti-inflammatory diet
Remedies
NSAIDs Physiotherapy Turmeric & ginger Hot/cold therapy
Overview
Over 100 types of arthritis exist. Osteoarthritis is wear-and-tear; rheumatoid is autoimmune. Swimming and yoga are excellent low-impact activities that maintain joint flexibility.
When to see a doctor
Persistent joint pain lasting more than 3 weeks, or sudden severe joint swelling with redness and warmth, warrants prompt medical evaluation.
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Infectious
Dengue Fever
A mosquito-borne viral infection causing flu-like illness that can develop into severe dengue, a potentially fatal complication.
Symptoms
High fever (40°C) Severe headache Pain behind eyes Muscle & joint pain Skin rash Bleeding gums
Precautions
Use mosquito repellent Wear long sleeves Eliminate stagnant water Use mosquito nets
Remedies
Paracetamol IV fluids Papaya leaf juice Rest & hydration
Overview
Dengue is transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which bite during the day. Platelet count monitoring is crucial. Avoid aspirin and ibuprofen as they increase bleeding risk.
When to see a doctor
Warning signs of severe dengue: severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, bleeding, or rapid breathing. This requires immediate hospitalization.
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Mental Health
Depression
A common and serious mood disorder affecting how you feel, think, and act — causing persistent sadness and loss of interest.
Symptoms
Persistent sadness Loss of interest Sleep disturbances Fatigue Difficulty concentrating Appetite changes
Precautions
Stay socially connected Regular exercise Limit alcohol Structured routine
Remedies
CBT therapy Antidepressants Mindfulness Sunlight exposure
Overview
Depression is not a weakness — it is a medical condition. Over 280 million people worldwide are affected. Treatment combines therapy and medication. Recovery is possible with the right support.
When to see a doctor
If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of self-harm, contact a mental health professional or crisis helpline immediately. You are not alone.
8
Conditions covered
5
Categories
50+
Symptoms listed
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Remedies & tips