Comprehensive Symptom Navigator

Diabetes Mellitus (Type 1 and Type 2)

Category: Endocrine and Metabolic Conditions

Symptoms:
increased thirst; frequent urination; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; blurred vision; slow-healing wounds; tingling or numbness in hands/feet (type 2)

Root Cause:
Type 1

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fasting blood glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL, HbA1c ≥ 6.5%, oral glucose tolerance test, random blood glucose test.

Treatment:
Type 1

Medications:
Type 1

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 10% of adults worldwide, predominantly Type 2.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Type 1

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable; early treatment reduces the risk of complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular disease, kidney disease (nephropathy), eye damage (retinopathy), nerve damage (neuropathy), foot ulcers.

Hypertension in Children

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Cardiovascular Disorders

Sub-category: Acquired Cardiovascular Disorders

Symptoms:
headaches; fatigue; dizziness; nosebleeds; shortness of breath; blurred vision; chest pain; asymptomatic (common in mild cases)

Root Cause:
Elevated blood pressure due to either primary (essential) hypertension or secondary causes such as kidney disease, obesity, endocrine disorders, or congenital cardiovascular abnormalities.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Serial blood pressure measurements compared to age, sex, and height percentiles; ambulatory blood pressure monitoring; laboratory tests (e.g., kidney function tests, electrolytes); imaging studies (e.g., renal ultrasound, echocardiography).

Treatment:
Lifestyle modifications (e.g., diet, exercise, weight management) and medications for severe or secondary cases. Treating the underlying cause if identified (e.g., managing kidney disease).

Medications:
ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril ) - To lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. Calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine ) - To reduce blood vessel constriction. Diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide ) - To decrease fluid retention and lower blood pressure. Beta-blockers (e.g., atenolol ) - To reduce heart rate and blood pressure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Increasing in prevalence due to rising rates of obesity; affects 2-5% of children and adolescents.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, family history of hypertension, sedentary lifestyle, high-sodium diet, chronic kidney disease, endocrine disorders.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early detection and treatment, but untreated hypertension can lead to long-term complications like cardiovascular disease, kidney damage, and stroke.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Left ventricular hypertrophy, chronic kidney disease, atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart attack.

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Specialty: Allergies and Immunology

Category: Immunologic Disorders

Sub-category: Autoimmune Disorders

Symptoms:
increased thirst; frequent urination; unintended weight loss; fatigue; blurred vision; slow-healing wounds

Root Cause:
Autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to insufficient insulin production.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for fasting glucose, HbA1c, random glucose levels, or autoantibody testing.

Treatment:
Lifelong insulin therapy (injections or pumps), blood sugar monitoring, healthy diet, and exercise.

Medications:
Insulin therapy and immunomodulatory treatments in experimental stages (e.g., Teplizumab ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for 5–10% of diabetes cases worldwide; often diagnosed in childhood or adolescence.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Genetic predisposition (HLA genes), family history, certain viral infections, low vitamin D levels.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Lifelong condition; manageable with proper treatment, but risk of complications increases with poor glucose control.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Diabetic ketoacidosis, cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, retinopathy, nephropathy.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Specialty: Senior Health and Geriatrics

Category: Chronic Diseases and Multimorbidity

Sub-category: Metabolic and Endocrine Disorders

Symptoms:
increased thirst; frequent urination; fatigue; blurred vision; slow wound healing; numbness or tingling in hands or feet

Root Cause:
Insulin resistance, where the body’s cells do not respond properly to insulin, leading to elevated blood sugar levels. The pancreas eventually cannot produce enough insulin to maintain normal blood sugar levels.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests including fasting blood glucose, HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), or an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes (diet and exercise), blood sugar monitoring, oral medications (e.g., metformin), and insulin therapy in some cases.

Medications:
Metformin (an oral biguanide that improves insulin sensitivity and reduces glucose production in the liver), sulfonylureas (e.g., glimepiride ), SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., empagliflozin ), GLP-1 agonists (e.g., liraglutide ), and insulin.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 9.3% of the global population, with a higher prevalence in older adults.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, family history, obesity, physical inactivity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and an unhealthy diet.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Can be managed with lifestyle changes and medications, though long-term complications can arise if blood sugar levels are not well-controlled.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, nerve damage, eye damage, poor wound healing, and increased risk of infections.

Hypertensive Emergencies

Specialty: Emergency and Urgent Care

Category: Cardiac Emergencies

Sub-category: Hypertension-related Conditions

Symptoms:
severe headache; chest pain; shortness of breath; blurred vision; confusion; nausea or vomiting; seizures

Root Cause:
Critically elevated blood pressure (typically >180/120 mmHg) causing acute end-organ damage (e.g., heart, brain, kidneys, or eyes).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood pressure measurement, clinical signs of end-organ damage, lab tests (renal function, electrolytes), and imaging (e.g., CT for stroke, ECG for cardiac involvement).

Treatment:
Immediate blood pressure reduction using intravenous antihypertensives and addressing the specific end-organ damage.

Medications:
IV antihypertensives like nitroprusside (vasodilator), labetalol (beta-blocker), nicardipine (calcium channel blocker), or hydralazine . Oral antihypertensives are introduced later.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in about 1-2% of patients with chronic hypertension.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poorly controlled hypertension, noncompliance with antihypertensive medications, kidney disease, and pregnancy (e.g., eclampsia).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on promptness of treatment; delayed care can result in severe complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke, myocardial infarction, aortic dissection, acute kidney injury, and retinal damage.

Essential Hypertension (Primary Hypertension)

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Symptoms:
often asymptomatic; headaches; dizziness; blurred vision; shortness of breath; nosebleeds (rare)

Root Cause:
Chronic elevation of blood pressure with no identifiable secondary cause, likely due to genetic and environmental factors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Repeated blood pressure measurements; ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM); basic labs (CBC, CMP, lipid panel, urinalysis); EKG to check for complications

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes, dietary modifications (DASH diet), regular physical activity, weight management, and pharmacological interventions.

Medications:
First-line medications include thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide ), ACE inhibitors (e.g., lisinopril ), ARBs (e.g., losartan ), calcium channel blockers (e.g., amlodipine ), and beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol , used in select patients).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 30-45% of adults globally; prevalence increases with age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history; obesity; high salt intake; sedentary lifestyle; smoking; alcohol consumption; stress; age (older individuals)

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Can be well-managed with treatment; untreated hypertension significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Left ventricular hypertrophy; heart failure; stroke; chronic kidney disease; retinopathy; vascular dementia

Hypertensive Crisis

Specialty: Cardiovascular

Category: Vascular Diseases

Sub-category: Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Symptoms:
severe headache; blurred vision; shortness of breath; chest pain; confusion; nausea/vomiting; nosebleeds

Root Cause:
Sudden, severe elevation of blood pressure (≥180/120 mmHg) with or without acute organ damage. Hypertensive emergency involves organ damage, while urgency does not.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood pressure measurement; assessment for end-organ damage (e.g., labs for kidney function, EKG, imaging for stroke or heart damage)

Treatment:
Immediate reduction of blood pressure in a controlled manner to prevent or minimize organ damage. In emergencies, intravenous medications are used.

Medications:
For hypertensive emergencies, IV medications such as nitroprusside (vasodilator), labetalol (beta-blocker), or nicardipine (calcium channel blocker). For urgency, oral medications like captopril (ACE inhibitor) or clonidine (alpha agonist) are used.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Relatively rare, but more common in patients with poorly controlled hypertension or non-adherence to treatment.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Uncontrolled hypertension; kidney disease; pheochromocytoma; pregnancy-related hypertension (e.g., preeclampsia); sudden discontinuation of antihypertensive medications

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, prognosis is good; delayed treatment can lead to permanent organ damage or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Stroke; heart attack; acute kidney injury; pulmonary edema; aortic dissection

Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells (Type 1 Diabetes)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Diabetes Mellitus and Related Disorders

Sub-category: Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Symptoms:
frequent urination (polyuria); excessive thirst (polydipsia); unintended weight loss; fatigue; blurred vision; slow wound healing; recurrent infections

Root Cause:
The immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to a lack of insulin production and resul.ting in hyperglycemia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed by hyperglycemia, autoantibodies (e.g., GAD, ICA), and low C-peptide levels.

Treatment:
Treated with insulin therapy and blood glucose monitoring.

Medications:
Insulin is the primary treatment, including long-acting (e.g., glargine , detemir ) and short-acting (e.g., lispro, aspart) insulin analogs. These are classified as hormone replacement therapies.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for approximately 5–10% of all diabetes cases; often diagnosed in childhood but can occur at any age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of type 1 diabetes, presence of other autoimmune conditions, certain genetic markers (e.g., HLA-DR3, HLA-DR4), and environmental triggers (e.g., viral infections).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Lifelong management with insulin therapy is required. With proper treatment, individuals can lead normal, healthy lives, although there is an increased risk of complications if poorly managed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), chronic complications like retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Latent Autoimmune Diabetes in Adults (LADA)

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Diabetes Mellitus and Related Disorders

Sub-category: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Symptoms:
gradual onset of hyperglycemia; excessive thirst (polydipsia); frequent urination (polyuria); fatigue; blurred vision; weight loss

Root Cause:
A slow-progressing autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, resulting in reduced insulin production. Often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes due to its slower progression.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through positive islet autoantibodies and gradual insulin dependence.

Treatment:
Treated initially with oral antidiabetics (e.g., metformin) and progression to insulin therapy as beta-cell function declines.

Medications:
Initially, oral medications such as metformin or sulfonylureas may be used. Insulin therapy becomes necessary as the disease progresses. Insulin is classified as a hormone replacement therapy.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Accounts for approximately 5–10% of all diabetes cases; more common in adults over 30 but often underdiagnosed.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of autoimmune conditions, genetic predisposition (e.g., certain HLA genes), and environmental factors.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early diagnosis and treatment, blood sugar levels can be effectively managed. Delayed diagnosis may increase the risk of complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Similar to type 1 diabetes, including an increased risk of retinopathy, nephropathy, neuropathy, and cardiovascular complications.

Insulin Resistance and Relative Insulin Deficiency

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Diabetes Mellitus and Related Disorders

Sub-category: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Symptoms:
increased hunger (polyphagia); frequent urination (polyuria); excessive thirst (polydipsia); fatigue; blurred vision; slow-healing wounds; darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans)

Root Cause:
Impaired cellular response to insulin leads to reduced glucose uptake, causing the pancreas to overproduce insulin to compensate. This contributes to beta-cell dysfunction and relative insulin deficiency over time.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests such as fasting glucose levels, HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and insulin levels; physical exam identifying symptoms like acanthosis nigricans.

Treatment:
Lifestyle interventions (diet, exercise), weight management, medications to improve insulin sensitivity or lower blood glucose, and in some cases, insulin therapy.

Medications:
Metformin

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Insulin resistance is a hallmark of prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes, affecting up to 39% of the global adult population, with higher rates in obese and sedentary individuals.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, sedentary lifestyle, family history of diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), age over 45, and certain ethnicities (e.g., African American, Hispanic, Asian).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper management, progression to diabetes can be delayed or prevented. Uncontrolled, it leads to chronic hyperglycemia and complications such as cardiovascular disease and neuropathy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease, kidney damage, and nerve damage (neuropathy).

Diabetes during pregnancy

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Diabetes Mellitus and Related Disorders

Sub-category: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM)

Symptoms:
increased thirst; frequent urination; fatigue; blurred vision; unexplained weight changes; nausea; slow-healing infections

Root Cause:
Insulin resistance due to hormonal changes during pregnancy, combined with an inability of the pancreas to produce sufficient insulin to maintain normal glucose levels.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is through glucose screening tests such as the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) conducted during the second trimester (usually between 24 and 28 weeks of pregnancy).

Treatment:
Management involves dietary modifications, regular physical activity, blood glucose monitoring, and, if needed, medications to regulate blood sugar levels.

Medications:
Insulin therapy is the primary treatment if blood sugar cannot be controlled through lifestyle changes. Additionally, oral medications such as metformin (a biguanide that improves insulin sensitivity) or glyburide (a sulfonylurea that increases insulin secretion) may be prescribed in some cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Gestational diabetes affects approximately 6-9% of pregnancies globally, with higher rates in certain populations.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of diabetes; overweight or obesity; advanced maternal age; previous history of gestational diabetes; ethnic predisposition (e.g., South Asian, African-American, Hispanic); polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Most women with gestational diabetes return to normal glucose levels after delivery. However, they remain at higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes in the future.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Macrosomia (large baby size); increased risk of cesarean delivery; neonatal hypoglycemia; respiratory distress syndrome in newborn; increased risk of preeclampsia for the mother; future metabolic disorders in both mother and child

Insulinoma

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Pancreatic Endocrine Disorders

Sub-category: Hypoglycemia (Non-Diabetes Related)

Symptoms:
episodes of confusion; dizziness; weakness; sweating; palpitations; hunger; blurred vision; loss of consciousness

Root Cause:
A benign tumor of the pancreatic beta cells that produces excessive insulin, causing recurrent hypoglycemia.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical suspicion based on symptoms, confirmed by a supervised 72-hour fasting test demonstrating hypoglycemia with inappropriately high insulin levels, C-peptide, and proinsulin. Imaging (CT, MRI, or endoscopic ultrasound) is used to localize the tumor.

Treatment:
Surgical removal of the tumor is the primary treatment. In non-surgical cases, medical management focuses on controlling hypoglycemia.

Medications:
Diazoxide (reduces insulin secretion, potassium channel activator) and somatostatin analogs like octreotide (inhibit insulin release).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Insulinomas are rare, with an estimated incidence of 1-4 cases per million people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Associated with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) syndrome, though most cases are sporadic.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Excellent with surgical removal; the majority of insulinomas are benign and curable. Rare malignant cases may require additional therapies.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe recurrent hypoglycemia leading to seizures, neurological damage, or death if untreated.

Hyperinsulinism

Specialty: Diabetes and Endocrinology

Category: Pancreatic Endocrine Disorders

Symptoms:
hypoglycemia (low blood sugar); dizziness; sweating; shaking; confusion; blurred vision; seizures; loss of consciousness

Root Cause:
Excessive secretion of insulin from the pancreas, often due to a tumor (insulinoma), genetic mutations affecting insulin regulation, or overcompensation for insulin resistance.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (glucose, insulin, and C-peptide levels during hypoglycemia), fasting tests, imaging studies (CT, MRI, or PET scans), and genetic testing in congenital cases.

Treatment:
Dietary management, surgery (if caused by an insulinoma), or medications to regulate insulin secretion.

Medications:
Diazoxide (a potassium channel opener that inhibits insulin secretion) or octreotide (a somatostatin analog to suppress insulin release).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; congenital forms are more common in neonates, while insulinomas occur in about 1-4 per million people annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history of congenital hyperinsulinism, genetic mutations, or conditions like MEN1 syndrome.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the cause; manageable with treatment but severe hypoglycemia can lead to long-term complications if not addressed.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Recurrent hypoglycemia leading to seizures, brain damage, or developmental delays (in infants).

Concussion

Specialty: Neurology

Category: Traumatic Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

Symptoms:
headache; confusion; dizziness; nausea; vomiting; blurred vision; sensitivity to light and noise; memory loss; difficulty concentrating; fatigue

Root Cause:
A mild traumatic brain injury caused by a sudden impact or jolt to the head, leading to temporary disruption of brain function.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation (patient history, symptom analysis, and physical examination), neurocognitive testing, imaging tests like CT or MRI (if severe symptoms or risk of complications).

Treatment:
Rest, gradual return to activities, symptom management, cognitive and physical rehabilitation if needed.

Medications:
Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for headaches. Prescription medications, such as amitriptyline (tricyclic antidepressant) or topiramate (antiepileptic), may be used for post-concussion headaches or migraines.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common; estimated 1.6–3.8 million concussions occur annually in the U.S. related to sports and recreational activities.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Participation in contact sports, history of previous concussions, motor vehicle accidents, falls, younger age (children and adolescents).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Generally good, with most people recovering fully within weeks to months; symptoms may persist longer in post-concussion syndrome.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Post-concussion syndrome, second impact syndrome, chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), persistent cognitive or emotional problems.

Dysautonomia

Specialty: Neurology

Category: Autonomic Nervous System Disorders

Symptoms:
dizziness; fainting; rapid heartbeat; fatigue; difficulty regulating body temperature; digestive issues; blurred vision; shortness of breath

Root Cause:
Dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system, which controls involuntary functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, digestion, and temperature regulation.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Comprehensive clinical evaluation, tilt table test, autonomic reflex screening, sweat testing, and blood tests to identify secondary causes.

Treatment:
Tailored based on the type and cause; lifestyle adjustments, physical therapy, dietary changes, and symptom-specific medications.

Medications:
Medications may include beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol ) for heart rate control, fludrocortisone (a mineralocorticoid) to expand blood volume, pyridostigmine (a cholinesterase inhibitor) for autonomic modulation, and midodrine (an alpha-1 agonist) to improve blood pressure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Exact prevalence varies widely; associated conditions like POTS and neurodegenerative diseases suggest a significant affected population.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Autoimmune disorders, diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, genetic predisposition, and viral illnesses.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Highly variable; some forms are reversible or manageable, while others (e.g., those linked to neurodegenerative diseases) may progress.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Poor quality of life, limited physical activity, secondary complications like blood pooling, gastrointestinal dysfunction, and potential overlap with other chronic conditions.

Orthostatic Hypotension

Specialty: Neurology

Category: Autonomic Nervous System Disorders

Symptoms:
lightheadedness; dizziness; fainting; blurred vision; weakness; fatigue; headaches when standing

Root Cause:
A drop in blood pressure upon standing, due to impaired autonomic regulation, reduced blood volume, or cardiovascular conditions.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Measuring blood pressure and heart rate changes from lying to standing, tilt table test, and evaluation of contributing factors.

Treatment:
Non-pharmacological strategies like increasing fluid and salt intake, wearing compression stockings, and slowly transitioning to upright positions; medications if needed.

Medications:
Medications include fludrocortisone (a mineralocorticoid) to expand blood volume, midodrine (an alpha-1 agonist) to constrict blood vessels, and droxidopa (a norepinephrine prodrug) to increase blood pressure.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in older adults, affecting approximately 6–30% of people over age 65.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age, neurodegenerative diseases, diabetes, medications that lower blood pressure, and dehydration.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Symptoms can often be managed effectively; underlying causes significantly impact long-term outcomes.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Falls and related injuries, reduced independence, cardiovascular events, and reduced quality of life.

Pseudotumor Cerebri (Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension)

Specialty: Neurology

Category: Other Neurological Disorders

Symptoms:
headache; blurred vision; double vision; papilledema (optic disc swelling); ringing in the ears synchronized with heartbeat

Root Cause:
Increased intracranial pressure without an identifiable mass or tumor, often linked to impaired CSF absorption.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Fundoscopic exam for papilledema, lumbar puncture measuring elevated CSF pressure, and brain imaging to rule out other causes.

Treatment:
Weight loss, therapeutic lumbar punctures, optic nerve fenestration surgery, or CSF shunting if vision loss is severe.

Medications:
Acetazolamide (a carbonic anhydrase inhibitor) to reduce CSF production; furosemide (a diuretic) for adjunctive therapy; pain relievers for headaches.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects 1–2 per 100,000 people; higher incidence in obese women of childbearing age.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Obesity, female gender, certain medications (e.g., tetracycline, oral contraceptives, or corticosteroids), and hormonal changes.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Often manageable with treatment; untreated cases may lead to permanent vision loss.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic headaches, severe vision impairment, and blindness.

Scleroderma Renal Crisis

Specialty: Nephrology

Category: Systemic Diseases with Renal Involvement

Symptoms:
severe hypertension; acute kidney injury; headaches; seizures; blurred vision; shortness of breath; fluid retention

Root Cause:
Vascular injury and narrowing of the renal arteries due to systemic sclerosis lead to decreased renal perfusion, activating the renin-angiotensin system and causing a hypertensive crisis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical presentation (acute hypertension and renal dysfunction), lab tests (elevated serum creatinine, proteinuria), and kidney biopsy (if necessary).

Treatment:
Aggressive blood pressure control, primarily with angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, supportive care for kidney function, and possibly dialysis.

Medications:
ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril , enalapril ) are the primary treatment. They are antihypertensive medications that inhibit the renin-angiotensin system to lower blood pressure and protect kidney function.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Occurs in approximately 5–10% of patients with systemic sclerosis.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Diffuse systemic sclerosis, anti-RNA polymerase III antibodies, recent use of high-dose corticosteroids.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, prognosis has improved, but long-term outcomes depend on kidney function recovery. Untreated cases may lead to irreversible kidney damage or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Chronic kidney disease, end-stage renal disease, hypertensive encephalopathy, heart failure.

Hyperviscosity Syndrome

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Blood Disorders

Symptoms:
blurred vision; headache; dizziness; nosebleeds; easy bruising; fatigue; altered mental status

Root Cause:
Increased blood viscosity due to elevated levels of proteins (e.g., IgM in Waldenström macroglobulinemia), red blood cells, or other components.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests (e.g., serum viscosity levels, CBC), clinical symptoms, and testing for underlying disorders like monoclonal gammopathies.

Treatment:
Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis) to reduce viscosity, treatment of the underlying cause (e.g., chemotherapy for plasma cell disorders).

Medications:
Chemotherapy agents (e.g., rituximab for lymphoproliferative disorders), antiplatelet agents like aspirin (to reduce clotting risk).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; associated with specific conditions like Waldenström macroglobulinemia and polycythemia vera.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Plasma cell dyscrasias, polycythemia vera, multiple myeloma, high serum protein levels.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Depends on the underlying cause; reversible with timely treatment but may lead to severe complications if untreated.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Retinal vein occlusion, stroke, organ ischemia, and heart failure.

Polycythemia Vera

Specialty: Hematology

Category: Stem Cells and Disorders

Symptoms:
headache; dizziness; itching (especially after a hot shower); fatigue; blurred vision; red or flushed skin; blood clots

Root Cause:
Mutation in the JAK2 gene leads to overproduction of red blood cells, white cells, and platelets.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Complete blood count (CBC), JAK2 mutation test, bone marrow biopsy, erythropoietin level.

Treatment:
Phlebotomy, low-dose aspirin, cytoreductive therapy with hydroxyurea or ruxolitinib.

Medications:
Hydroxyurea (cytoreductive agent), ruxolitinib (JAK2 inhibitor), low-dose aspirin (antithrombotic).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; approximately 1-2 cases per 100,000 annually.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Age over 60, family history, genetic predisposition.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with treatment; life expectancy approaches normal with proper therapy.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Blood clots, stroke, heart attack, progression to myelofibrosis or acute leukemia.

Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Specialty: Genetics

Category: Single-Gene Disorders (Mendelian Inheritance)

Sub-category: Polygenic and Multifactorial Disorders

Symptoms:
increased thirst and urination; unexplained weight loss; fatigue; blurred vision; slow healing sores or frequent infections; hunger (especially in type 1); tingling or numbness in extremities (especially in type 2)

Root Cause:
Type 1 is caused by autoimmune destruction of insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. Type 2 is due to insulin resistance and relative insulin deficiency, often influenced by genetic and environmental factors.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests measuring fasting glucose levels, oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT), hemoglobin A1c levels, and autoantibody tests (for Type 1).

Treatment:
Lifestyle changes (diet, exercise), blood sugar monitoring, insulin therapy (for Type 1), oral hypoglycemic agents, and sometimes insulin (for Type 2).

Medications:
Type 1

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Type 1 affects about 5-10% of individuals with diabetes. Type 2 accounts for 90-95% of diabetes cases globally.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Type 1

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Manageable with proper treatment; Type 1 requires lifelong insulin, and Type 2 can often be managed or reversed with lifestyle changes and medication.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, retinopathy, neuropathy, and limb amputation due to poor circulation and infections.

Methanol and ethylene glycol poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Chemical Poisoning

Symptoms:
nausea; vomiting; abdominal pain; blurred vision; seizures; altered mental status; metabolic acidosis; renal failure

Root Cause:
Toxic metabolites (formic acid from methanol, oxalate crystals from ethylene glycol) cause metabolic acidosis and organ damage (e.g., optic nerve in methanol poisoning, kidneys in ethylene glycol poisoning).

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history, elevated anion gap metabolic acidosis, osmolar gap, specific blood levels of methanol or ethylene glycol.

Treatment:
Administration of fomepizole or ethanol (inhibits alcohol dehydrogenase), bicarbonate therapy for acidosis, hemodialysis for severe cases, folinic acid or pyridoxine (cofactors to detoxify metabolites).

Medications:
Fomepizole (alcohol dehydrogenase inhibitor), ethanol (alternative alcohol dehydrogenase substrate), bicarbonate (neutralizes acidosis), folinic acid (enhances formic acid detoxification in methanol poisoning).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Sporadic cases, commonly associated with accidental ingestion or intentional poisoning.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Ingestion of antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, or contaminated alcohol.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; delays can lead to permanent blindness or renal damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Blindness (methanol), renal failure (ethylene glycol), metabolic acidosis, multi-organ failure.

Methanol Poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Acute Poisoning

Sub-category: Alcohol-Related Toxicity

Symptoms:
headache; nausea; vomiting; blurred vision; metabolic acidosis; confusion; seizures; blindness; coma

Root Cause:
Metabolism of methanol to formic acid leads to severe metabolic acidosis and optic nerve toxicity.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Measurement of serum methanol levels, metabolic acidosis with increased anion and osmolal gap, and clinical symptoms.

Treatment:
Administration of fomepizole or ethanol to inhibit alcohol dehydrogenase, correction of acidosis with bicarbonate, and hemodialysis to remove methanol and formic acid.

Medications:
Fomepizole or ethanol (alcohol dehydrogenase inhibitors); sodium bicarbonate for acidosis.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; occurs due to ingestion of adulterated alcohol or industrial exposure.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Access to methanol-containing products, substance misuse, occupational hazards.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early treatment, prognosis is good; delayed treatment can result in blindness or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent blindness, multi-organ failure, death.

Deadly nightshade (atropine) poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Biological and Natural Toxins

Sub-category: Plant Toxins

Symptoms:
dry mouth; blurred vision; difficulty swallowing; rapid heart rate; hallucinations; severe agitation; urinary retention; seizures

Root Cause:
Atropine is an anticholinergic compound that blocks the effects of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors, leading to nervous system dysfunction.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical history of ingestion, characteristic anticholinergic symptoms, and confirmation through toxicology tests if needed.

Treatment:
Activated charcoal (for recent ingestion), supportive care, and physostigmine (a cholinesterase inhibitor) as an antidote.

Medications:
Physostigmine (cholinesterase inhibitor), benzodiazepines (for seizures or agitation), and IV fluids for hydration.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; typically due to accidental ingestion of berries or leaves or intentional misuse.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Proximity to or handling of deadly nightshade plants; young children or pets at higher risk of accidental ingestion.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment; severe cases can lead to coma or death without intervention.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Coma, respiratory failure, severe dehydration, or cardiac complications (e.g., arrhythmias).

Snake venom poisoning

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Biological and Natural Toxins

Sub-category: Animal Toxins

Symptoms:
pain at the bite site; swelling; difficulty breathing; nausea; vomiting; dizziness; weakness; blurred vision; bleeding; paralysis

Root Cause:
Envenomation by the venom of a snake, which contains proteins that can damage tissue, blood vessels, and organs.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is based on clinical signs and symptoms, the type of snake (if known), and laboratory tests like blood clotting studies, complete blood count (CBC), and snake venom detection kits.

Treatment:
Antivenom administration is the primary treatment, along with supportive care such as fluid management, pain relief, and respiratory support.

Medications:
The main treatment is antivenom, which is a specific antibody designed to neutralize venom toxins. Pain relief can be managed with opioids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), depending on the severity of the pain. In severe cases, corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and swelling. Anticoagulants may be used for clotting issues, and antibiotics may be given if secondary infections are a concern.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Worldwide, approximately 5.4 million cases of snakebite occur annually, with about 100,000 deaths.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Proximity to snake habitats, agricultural work, lack of access to medical care, and unawareness of proper snakebite prevention.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
If treated promptly with antivenom and appropriate medical care, the prognosis is generally good. However, severe envenomations can cause lasting damage or death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Severe complications may include tissue necrosis, renal failure, hemorrhage, paralysis, and death. Long-term effects may include limb amputations, kidney dysfunction, or chronic pain.

Botulism (Clostridium botulinum toxin)

Specialty: Toxicology

Category: Biological and Natural Toxins

Sub-category: Bacterial and Fungal Toxins

Symptoms:
muscle weakness; drooping eyelids; blurred vision; difficulty swallowing; paralysis; respiratory failure

Root Cause:
Botulism is caused by the toxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, which interferes with neurotransmitter release, leading to paralysis of muscles.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosis is made based on clinical signs and symptoms, supported by laboratory tests to detect botulinum toxin in the blood, stool, or suspected food.

Treatment:
Botulism is treated with botulinum antitoxin, which can neutralize the toxin if administered early. Supportive care, including mechanical ventilation, may be required for respiratory failure.

Medications:
"Botulism antitoxin" (neutralizes the botulinum toxin, not a cure but a treatment). It is classified as an immunoglobulin.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Botulism is rare, with about 145 cases reported annually in the U.S., though the prevalence varies by type (foodborne, infant, and wound botulism).

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contaminated food (especially improperly canned food), open wounds, and infants consuming honey (for infant botulism).

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, the prognosis can be good, though recovery may take weeks to months, especially if respiratory failure occurs.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, permanent neurological damage, and death if untreated.

Bacterial Keratitis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
eye pain; redness; blurred vision; sensitivity to light; discharge; corneal opacity or white spot on the cornea

Root Cause:
Bacterial infection of the cornea caused by pathogens such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa or Staphylococcus aureus.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Slit-lamp examination, corneal scraping for culture, and sensitivity testing.

Treatment:
Topical antibiotics, removal of infected corneal tissue (debridement), and supportive care.

Medications:
Fortified antibiotics such as tobramycin (aminoglycoside) and cefazolin (cephalosporin) applied as eye drops.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Moderate; more common in individuals using contact lenses or following corneal injury.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact lens misuse, trauma to the cornea, and compromised immune defenses.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if treated early; delayed treatment can lead to scarring or vision loss.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal ulcers, perforation, or permanent vision impairment.

Botulism

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Symptoms:
muscle weakness; blurred vision; drooping eyelids; slurred speech; difficulty swallowing; difficulty breathing; paralysis

Root Cause:
Caused by the neurotoxin produced by Clostridium botulinum, which blocks acetylcholine release at neuromuscular junctions, leading to paralysis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Based on clinical symptoms, patient history (e.g., ingestion of contaminated food or wound exposure), and confirmed with laboratory tests such as toxin assays or stool cultures.

Treatment:
Administering antitoxins, supportive care (e.g., mechanical ventilation if respiratory muscles are affected), and wound debridement in wound botulism cases.

Medications:
Botulinum antitoxin (neutralizes circulating toxins); antibiotics such as penicillin or metronidazole for wound botulism to address infection (penicillin

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare; approximately 1,000 cases annually worldwide, including foodborne, wound, and infant botulism.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Ingesting improperly preserved or canned foods, intravenous drug use (wound botulism), and consuming honey in infants under 1 year.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With prompt treatment, most patients recover fully, though recovery may take weeks to months; untreated cases can be fatal due to respiratory failure.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Respiratory failure, long-term muscle weakness, and secondary infections due to prolonged hospitalization.

CBRNE-Related Botulism

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Bacterial Infections

Sub-category: Bioterrorism-related diseases

Symptoms:
acute flaccid paralysis; respiratory failure; blurred vision; difficulty speaking or swallowing

Root Cause:
Exposure to Clostridium botulinum toxin as a result of deliberate contamination or bioterrorism.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Similar to naturally occurring botulism; laboratory confirmation of toxin in serum or environmental samples.

Treatment:
Prompt administration of botulinum antitoxin and intensive supportive care, including respiratory support.

Medications:
Botulinum antitoxin; antibiotics are generally not recommended unless a secondary wound infection is present.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Extremely rare; associated with intentional acts of bioterrorism.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
High-risk exposure scenarios, such as handling contaminated materials.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with immediate medical intervention; untreated cases may result in death.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Long-term muscle weakness, prolonged hospitalization, and psychological trauma.

Fungal Keratitis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Fungal Infections

Sub-category: Ocular Mycoses

Symptoms:
eye pain; redness; blurred vision; photophobia; tearing; discharge

Root Cause:
Infection of the cornea by fungi, commonly Fusarium, Aspergillus, or Candida species, often following trauma or use of contact lenses.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Corneal scraping with microscopy, fungal cultures, and molecular diagnostics.

Treatment:
Topical antifungal therapy; surgical interventions like debridement or keratoplasty in severe cases.

Medications:
Natamycin (topical polyene antifungal), voriconazole (topical or systemic), or amphotericin B in severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
More common in tropical and subtropical regions; associated with agricultural injuries and contact lens use.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Corneal trauma, contact lens wear, steroid use, and tropical climates.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with early treatment, though advanced cases may result in corneal scarring or vision loss.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal perforation, endophthalmitis, and vision impairment.

Ocular Manifestations of HIV Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: HIV and Vision

Symptoms:
blurred vision; floaters; pain or redness in the eye; vision loss; light sensitivity; double vision

Root Cause:
Direct HIV effects, opportunistic infections (e.g., cytomegalovirus retinitis), or immune recovery uveitis causing inflammation or damage to the eye structures.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Comprehensive eye examination, including dilated fundoscopic examination, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and imaging studies. Laboratory tests to confirm opportunistic infections.

Treatment:
Treatment depends on the cause, including ART for HIV control, antiviral medications for infections (e.g., ganciclovir for CMV), corticosteroids for inflammation, and laser therapy for retinal detachment.

Medications:
Ganciclovir (antiviral) for CMV retinitis, valganciclovir (oral antiviral), and corticosteroid eye drops for immune-mediated inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Up to 50% of untreated HIV patients experience ocular complications, though rates are lower with effective ART.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced HIV, low CD4 counts, untreated opportunistic infections, and lack of access to ART.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Effective ART reduces incidence; prompt diagnosis and treatment of infections improve outcomes, though some complications may lead to permanent vision loss.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Permanent vision impairment, blindness, retinal detachment, and decreased quality of life.

Acanthamoeba Infection

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
red eyes; severe eye pain; blurred vision; sensitivity to light; excessive tearing; corneal ulceration

Root Cause:
Infection caused by the Acanthamoeba protozoan, which invades the cornea, often due to contact lens use, contaminated water exposure, or corneal trauma.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, corneal scraping for microscopic examination, culture for Acanthamoeba, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing, and confocal microscopy.

Treatment:
Intensive antimicrobial therapy, primarily with topical agents. Advanced cases may require corneal transplantation.

Medications:
Polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) and chlorhexidine are antiseptics often prescribed for Acanthamoeba keratitis. Propamidine isethionate and neomycin (antibiotics) may be used in combination. Oral antifungal agents such as itraconazole may be used in severe cases.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Rare but increasingly reported, particularly among contact lens users.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Poor contact lens hygiene, exposure to contaminated water (e.g., swimming pools, hot tubs), corneal trauma, and immunosuppression.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good if diagnosed early; delayed treatment can result in severe vision impairment or blindness.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal scarring, secondary bacterial or fungal infections, and blindness.

Toxocariasis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Parasitic Infections

Symptoms:
fever; cough; abdominal pain; wheezing; blurred vision

Root Cause:
Caused by larvae of Toxocara species, transmitted via ingestion of soil contaminated with animal feces.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Blood tests for antibodies, imaging for organ involvement, and clinical symptoms.

Treatment:
Antiparasitic drugs and corticosteroids for severe inflammation.

Medications:
Albendazole or mebendazole , both classified as antiparasitics.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Found worldwide; higher prevalence in areas with poor sanitation.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Contact with contaminated soil, owning pets not dewormed regularly.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Good with treatment; severe cases may result in long-term organ damage.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Ocular toxocariasis leading to vision loss, and visceral involvement causing organ damage.

Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Keratitis

Specialty: Infectious Diseases

Category: Viral Infections

Sub-category: Ocular Infections

Symptoms:
eye pain; redness; blurred vision; sensitivity to light; tearing; eye discharge; foreign body sensation in the eye

Root Cause:
HSV infection of the cornea, leading to inflammation and potential damage to the eye's surface. The virus can remain dormant in the trigeminal ganglion and reactivate, affecting the eye.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Diagnosed through clinical examination, fluorescein staining, slit-lamp examination, PCR testing, and viral cultures.

Treatment:
Antiviral treatment, either topical or systemic, along with corticosteroids (in some cases) to control inflammation.

Medications:
Topical acyclovir (an antiviral), oral valacyclovir , and famciclovir (oral antivirals), often in combination with corticosteroids like prednisolone to reduce inflammation.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
HSV keratitis is the leading cause of infectious blindness in the developed world.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Previous ocular HSV infection, immunocompromised status, and trauma to the eye.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With early treatment, the prognosis is generally good, but repeated infections can lead to scarring and vision loss.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Corneal scarring, glaucoma, and, in severe cases, permanent vision loss if untreated.