Diseases & Conditions
Easy-to-understand answers about diseases and conditions
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Hair loss
Hair loss, alopecia, can occur on your scalp or throughout your entire body. It can be a temporary or permanent condition caused by genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, or a natural part of ageing. Although hair loss can happen to anyone, it is more commonly experienced by men. Baldness specifically refers to significant hair loss on the scalp. The most common cause of baldness is hereditary hair loss that occurs with age. Some individuals embrace their hair loss and do not take any action to conceal it. Others may use various methods such as hairstyles, makeup, hats, or scarves to cover it up. Alternatively, some people opt for hair loss treatments to prevent further hair loss or stimulate new hair growth. If you are considering hair loss treatment, you must first consult with your doctor to determine the underlying cause of your hair loss and explore potential treatment options.
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Hairy cell leukemia
White blood cells play a crucial role in fighting off germs. However, Hairy Cell Leukemia, a type of cancer, affects a kind of white blood cell known as B cells or B lymphocytes. In this condition, the body produces excessive abnormal B cells, which appear “hairy” under a microscope. These leukemic cells accumulate in the body and cause various symptoms. While the disease usually progresses slowly, a more aggressive variant called the Hairy Cell Leukemia Variant is considered a separate type of cancer. Typically, chemotherapy is the standard treatment for Hairy Cell Leukemia. However, immediate treatment may not be necessary, and the doctor may decide to defer it.
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H1N1 flu
H1N1 flu, often known as swine flu, belongs to the influenza A virus category. In the 2009-10 flu season, a novel H1N1 virus emerged, causing human illnesses. Dubbed swine flu, it resulted from a unique blend of influenza viruses affecting pigs, birds, and humans. The World Health Organization (WHO) classified H1N1 flu as a pandemic in 2009, contributing to around 284,400 global fatalities that year. By August 2010, WHO declared the pandemic’s end, though the H1N1 strain remained a part of subsequent seasonal flus. While most recover independently from the flu, its complications can be severe, especially for vulnerable individuals. The seasonal flu vaccine, including protection against H1N1 and other strains, plays a crucial role in preventing illness and its potential consequences.