Diseases A-Z List

When you’re trying to get a handle on various diseases, it’s helpful to have a comprehensive list from A to Z. This way, you can quickly find information on a wide array of illnesses. Below, you’ll find a detailed rundown of diseases, each with a brief description to help you better grasp what they are about.

Diseases A-Z List

A is for Asthma

Asthma is a common lung ailment that causes breathing difficulties. It often stems from an allergic reaction or other forms of hypersensitivity. So, if you find yourself wheezing or feeling short of breath, asthma could be the reason. You might also experience tightness in the chest or a persistent cough.

B is for Bronchitis

Bronchitis happens when the lining of your bronchial tubes becomes inflamed. This condition can lead to coughing up thickened mucus and shortness of breath. Smoking is a significant risk factor, and it’s something doctors always advise against.

C stands for Chickenpox

Chickenpox is known for its itchy, red rash that turns into fluid-filled blisters. It’s highly contagious but now less common due to widespread vaccination. Even so, if you’ve never had chickenpox or the vaccine, it’s something to be aware of.

D is for Diabetes

Diabetes is a chronic condition where the body struggles to regulate blood sugar levels. There are two main types: Type 1, where the body doesn’t produce enough insulin, and Type 2, where the body doesn’t respond to insulin properly. Diet and lifestyle choices play a critical role in managing this disease.

E is for Eczema

Eczema refers to a group of conditions that cause the skin to become red, itchy, and inflamed. Various factors, including genetics and allergens, can trigger it. So, if your skin is often irritated, it might be time to explore eczema more closely.

F is for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a long-term ailment that causes pain and tenderness throughout your body, accompanied by fatigue, sleep problems, memory, depression, and mood issues. This complex condition can be challenging to diagnose, making it essential to talk to a specialist if you suspect you have it.

G is for Gastroenteritis

Gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection marked by diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Often referred to as the stomach flu, viruses or bacteria typically cause it and can be quite unpleasant.

H is for Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common problem where the force of the blood against your artery walls is way too high. If left unchecked, it can lead to serious health issues, such as heart disease and stroke.

I is for Influenza

Influenza, or the flu, is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system. It’s infamous for causing fever, chills, muscle aches, and a feeling of being run down. Fortunately, annual flu vaccines can help prevent it.

J is for Jaundice

Jaundice is an ailment that causes yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. It’s a sign that something’s not right with your liver function, often related to liver diseases, blockages, or other conditions that affect bile production.

K is for Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard residues of minerals and salts that form inside your kidneys. They can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract. Staying hydrated is key to both preventing and helping to pass kidney stones.

L is for Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that affects your lymphatic system, which is part of your immune system. It can cause swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, and fever. Since these symptoms can also be signs of other illnesses, it’s important to get them checked out.

M is for Migraine

Migraines are potent headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. They’re more than just a regular headache and can significantly impact your life.

N is for Nephritis

Nephritis , also known as glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the kidneys that can lead to kidney failure if not treated properly. Symptoms might include high blood pressure and changes in urine output.

O is for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis makes your bones weak and more likely to break. You might not know you have it until you break a bone easily, so it’s crucial to look after your bone health, particularly as you age.

P is for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is an autoimmune ailment that causes rapid skin cell growth, leading to thick, red, scaly patches on the skin. It can be itchy or sore and often comes and goes in cycles.

Q is for Quadriplegia

Quadriplegia, also called tetraplegia, is paralysis caused by illness or injury that results in the partial or total loss of use of all limbs and torso. It’s a life-changing condition that requires comprehensive medical and physical support.

R is for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues, particularly the joints. It causes swelling, pain, and sometimes deformity.

S is for Stroke

A stroke happens when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted, stopping brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. It’s a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.

T is for Tuberculosis

Tuberculosis, or TB, is a potentially severe infectious illness that mainly affects your lungs. People with weakened immune systems are especially at risk, and it’s spread through the air from person to person.

U is for Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic disease that causes inflammation and sores in the digestive tract. It can lead to debilitating symptoms and sometimes even life-threatening complications.

V is for Varicella

Varicella, commonly known as chickenpox, is mentioned above under “C” and is a viral infection causing a blister-like rash, itching, tiredness, and fever.

W is for Whooping Cough

Whooping cough, or pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection. In children, it can be dire, even deadly, so vaccination is essential.

X is for Xerophthalmia

Xerophthalmia is a progressive eye ailment caused by a deficiency of vitamin A. It can lead to dry eyes, night blindness, and, in severe cases, complete blindness.

Y is for Yellow Fever

Yellow fever is a viral infection spread by a particular species of mosquito. It’s characterized by fever, chills, severe headache, back pain, and jaundice, hence the name “yellow” fever.

Z is for Zika Virus

Mosquitoes primarily transmit the Zika virus and can cause flu-like symptoms. It’s particularly concerning for pregnant women, as it can lead to severe birth defects.

This list gives you a snapshot of various diseases, but remember, each condition is complex and requires a medical professional’s expertise for diagnosis and treatment. If you’re experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your health, it’s always best to consult with a doctor.

Further Reading: Health Topics A to Z