Conditions A–Z

Which medicines treat which conditions

Browse common conditions to see the medicine classes used to treat each — cross-linked to our dose-free drug guides and clinical calculators.

Education and reference only. These pages explain which medicines are used and why — they contain no doses and are not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

Allergy

Allergy Cow's milk allergy A common food allergy in babies and young children, causing skin, gut or breathing symptoms after milk — managed by removing cow's… Allergy House dust mite allergy An allergy to tiny mites living in household dust, causing year-round sneezing, a blocked or runny nose, and sometimes asthma or e… Allergy Insect sting allergy An allergic reaction to bee or wasp stings, which is usually mild but can rarely be severe (anaphylaxis) — where those at risk car… Allergy Peanut allergy One of the most common food allergies, which can cause severe reactions — managed by strict avoidance and always carrying emergenc… Allergy Penicillin allergy An allergic reaction to penicillin antibiotics — often labelled but frequently not a true allergy — so accurate assessment matters… Allergy Pet allergy An allergy to proteins from animals (in skin flakes, saliva or urine), causing sneezing, itchy eyes, a blocked nose, and sometimes… Allergy Pollen-food syndrome An itchy mouth and lips after eating certain raw fruits, vegetables or nuts, in people with pollen allergy — usually mild, as the …

Allergy and immunology

Allergy and immunology Angioedema Deeper swelling of areas such as the lips, tongue, face, throat, hands or gut wall, which can occur with hives or on its own — usu… Allergy and immunology Drug allergy An immune reaction to a medicine — most often a rash, itching or hives, but occasionally severe — where the key steps are stopping… Allergy and immunology Food allergy An immune reaction to a particular food — ranging from mild itching and hives to a life-threatening reaction — where the cornersto… Allergy and immunology Hay fever & allergic rhinitis An allergic reaction in the nose causing sneezing, itching, a runny or blocked nose and itchy eyes — managed by avoiding triggers …

Blood

Blood Acute lymphoblastic leukaemia A fast-developing blood cancer of white blood cells, most common in children — where prompt diagnosis and intensive treatment lead… Blood Acute myeloid leukaemia A fast-developing blood cancer of myeloid cells, more common in older adults — needing prompt, intensive treatment, where outcomes… Blood Antiphospholipid syndrome An immune condition that makes the blood more likely to clot, causing thromboses and pregnancy complications — managed with blood-… Blood Aplastic anaemia A rare condition where the bone marrow stops making enough blood cells, causing anaemia, infections and bleeding — treatable, some… Blood Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia A slow-developing blood cancer of white blood cells, common in older adults — often causing no symptoms at first and sometimes jus… Blood Chronic myeloid leukaemia A slow-developing blood cancer of myeloid cells, now often well-controlled long-term with targeted tablet treatments — where many … Blood Erythrocytosis A raised number of red blood cells, which thickens the blood — where the cause guides treatment, as it can be a response to anothe… Blood Essential thrombocythaemia A blood condition where the bone marrow makes too many platelets, which can raise the risk of clots or bleeding — usually slow-gro… Blood Factor V Leiden A common inherited change that makes the blood slightly more likely to clot — most people never have problems, but it raises the r… Blood Folate deficiency A lack of folate (vitamin B9), which can cause anaemia and tiredness — usually from diet or increased needs, and easily treated, w… Blood G6PD deficiency A common inherited enzyme deficiency that can cause the red blood cells to break down in response to certain triggers — usually ha… Blood Haemolytic anaemia Anaemia caused by red blood cells being destroyed faster than they can be replaced — with many possible causes, treated according … Blood Haemophilia An inherited bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot properly due to a missing clotting factor, causing prolonged bleed… Blood Hereditary spherocytosis An inherited condition where red blood cells are more fragile and break down early, causing anaemia, jaundice and an enlarged sple… Blood High platelet count (thrombocytosis) A higher-than-normal number of platelets in the blood, usually a reaction to another condition (such as infection or inflammation)… Blood Iron deficiency anaemia Anaemia caused by a shortage of iron, leading to too little haemoglobin and symptoms such as tiredness, paleness and breathlessnes… Blood MGUS (monoclonal gammopathy) A common, usually harmless finding of an abnormal protein in the blood — needing monitoring, as a small proportion of people can g… Blood Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) A group of conditions where the bone marrow does not make enough healthy blood cells — ranging from mild to serious, and sometimes… Blood Myelofibrosis A rare bone marrow condition where scar tissue builds up in the marrow, affecting blood cell production — causing anaemia, tiredne… Blood Myeloma A cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow that can cause bone pain, fractures, anaemia, kidney problems and raised calcium — tre… Blood Neutropenia A low level of neutrophils (infection-fighting white cells), which raises the risk of infections — with many causes, and where fev… Blood Pernicious anaemia A type of vitamin B12 deficiency caused by the body being unable to absorb B12, leading to anaemia and nerve symptoms — effectivel… Blood Polycythaemia A condition where the blood becomes thicker due to too many red blood cells, raising the risk of clots — managed to reduce the red… Blood Raised eosinophils (eosinophilia) A higher-than-normal number of a type of white blood cell, often linked to allergies, asthma or parasitic infections — usually a c… Blood Raised lymphocytes (lymphocytosis) A higher-than-normal number of a type of white blood cell, most often a normal response to infection — usually temporary and not a… Blood Sickle cell disease An inherited blood disorder in which red blood cells become rigid and sickle-shaped and break down, causing anaemia and blocking s… Blood Thalassaemia An inherited blood disorder affecting the production of haemoglobin, causing anaemia — ranging from mild to severe, with the more … Blood Thrombocytopenia A low platelet count — platelets help the blood to clot, so a low level can cause easy bruising, tiny pinpoint spots (petechiae), … Blood Von Willebrand disease The most common inherited bleeding disorder, where the blood does not clot properly, causing easy bruising and prolonged bleeding …

Cancer

Cancer Bladder cancer A cancer starting in the lining of the bladder, most often signalled by blood in the urine — treatable, especially when found earl… Cancer Brain tumour A growth of abnormal cells in the brain, which may be non-cancerous or cancerous — symptoms depend on its location, and treatment … Cancer Cervical cancer A cancer of the cervix (neck of the womb) caused by persistent HPV infection — largely preventable through the HPV vaccine and cer… Cancer Endometrial cancer A cancer of the lining of the womb, most often signalled by bleeding after the menopause — frequently found early and very treatab… Cancer Hodgkin lymphoma A cancer of the lymphatic system, often in younger adults, usually starting as a painless swollen gland — one of the most treatabl… Cancer Kidney cancer A cancer of the kidney, often found by chance on a scan, sometimes causing blood in the urine or a lump — frequently curable with … Cancer Liver cancer A cancer arising in the liver, often on a background of long-term liver damage — best prevented and detected by managing and monit… Cancer Mesothelioma A cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen, almost always caused by past asbestos exposure — often appearing decades later, wi… Cancer Mouth cancer A cancer that can develop on the lips, tongue, gums or lining of the mouth, often as a persistent ulcer or patch — more treatable … Cancer Non-Hodgkin lymphoma A cancer of the lymphatic (immune) system that often shows as painless swollen glands — a diverse group of conditions, many of whi… Cancer Oesophageal cancer A cancer of the food pipe whose main warning sign is difficulty swallowing — best treated when found early, so new swallowing prob… Cancer Ovarian cancer A cancer of the ovaries whose symptoms are often vague and easily overlooked — so persistent bloating, tummy pain or feeling full … Cancer Penile cancer A rare cancer usually appearing as a change or growth on the penis — highly treatable when found early, so any persistent change s… Cancer Stomach cancer A cancer of the stomach lining that often causes vague digestive symptoms early on — treatable when caught early, so persistent or… Cancer Testicular cancer A cancer that usually appears as a painless lump or swelling in a testicle, mainly affecting younger men — one of the most treatab… Cancer Thyroid cancer A cancer of the thyroid gland in the neck, often appearing as a painless lump — usually very treatable, with most types having an …

Cardiovascular

Child health

Child health Cleft lip and palate A common birth difference where the lip or roof of the mouth does not fully join, usually repaired with surgery — where specialist… Child health Cradle cap Common, harmless greasy yellowish scales or crusts on a baby’s scalp in the early months — not itchy or a sign of poor hygiene, an… Child health Craniosynostosis A condition where the joints in a baby’s skull fuse too early, affecting head shape and growth — where assessment by a specialist … Child health Edwards' syndrome A serious genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 18, affecting development and many organs — where care focuses o… Child health Fabricated or induced illness A rare form of child abuse where a carer fabricates or produces illness in a child — where the priority is recognising it and prot… Child health Fetal alcohol spectrum disorder A range of lifelong effects on a child caused by alcohol during pregnancy — entirely preventable by not drinking in pregnancy, and… Child health Haemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn A condition where a mother’s antibodies attack her baby’s red blood cells (often related to blood group differences) — now largely… Child health Neonatal herpes A rare but serious herpes virus infection in a newborn baby, needing urgent treatment — where prompt recognition and antiviral tre… Child health Newborn jaundice A very common yellowing of a newborn baby’s skin and eyes in the first days of life — usually harmless and settling on its own, bu… Child health Patau's syndrome A serious genetic condition caused by an extra copy of chromosome 13, severely affecting development and many organs — where care … Child health Reye's syndrome A very rare but serious condition affecting the liver and brain, mainly in children — where the key message is not to give aspirin…

Children's health

Digestive

Digestive Abnormal liver blood tests Abnormal results on liver blood tests, often found by chance, which have many causes — frequently minor and reversible — and are a… Digestive Achalasia A rare condition where the muscle at the bottom of the food pipe fails to relax and the food pipe loses its normal movement, makin… Digestive Acid reflux & GORD Stomach acid rising into the gullet, causing heartburn and an acid taste — managed with lifestyle change and, where needed, medici… Digestive Acute cholecystitis Sudden inflammation of the gallbladder, usually from a gallstone blocking it, causing severe upper right tummy pain — needing hosp… Digestive Acute diarrhoea A sudden bout of loose or watery stools — usually caused by a passing viral infection and getting better on its own, where the mai… Digestive Acute pancreatitis Sudden inflammation of the pancreas causing severe upper tummy pain, most often from gallstones or alcohol — needing urgent hospit… Digestive Alcohol-related liver disease Liver damage caused by drinking too much alcohol over time, often silent until advanced — where stopping or reducing alcohol can a… Digestive Alcoholic hepatitis Inflammation of the liver caused by drinking alcohol, ranging from mild to a severe, life-threatening illness — where stopping alc… Digestive Anal abscess A painful collection of pus near the anus from an infection, causing a swollen, red, tender lump — needing prompt drainage, as it … Digestive Anal cancer A relatively uncommon cancer of the anus, often linked to HPV, causing symptoms such as bleeding, pain or a lump — where these sym… Digestive Anal fissure A small tear in the lining of the anus that causes sharp pain when passing stools and bright-red bleeding — usually healing well o… Digestive Anal fistula A small tunnel that develops between the inside of the anus and the skin nearby, usually after an abscess — causing discharge and … Digestive Appendicitis A painful swelling of the appendix that is a common surgical emergency — where tummy pain that starts near the navel and moves to … Digestive Autoimmune hepatitis A condition where the immune system attacks the liver, causing inflammation that can lead to scarring — usually well controlled wi… Digestive Barrett's oesophagus A change in the cells lining the lower gullet (oesophagus) caused by long-term acid reflux — usually it causes no symptoms of its … Digestive Bile acid diarrhoea A common but under-recognised cause of chronic watery diarrhoea, where bile acids irritate the bowel — often effectively treated w… Digestive Bloating A common feeling of a swollen, full or tight tummy, usually harmless and related to digestion — but persistent bloating should be … Digestive Bowel incontinence Difficulty controlling bowel movements, leading to leakage of stool — common, often treatable, and important to seek help for desp… Digestive Bowel obstruction A blockage that stops food and fluid passing through the bowel, causing tummy pain, vomiting, bloating and constipation — a seriou… Digestive Bowel polyps Small growths on the lining of the bowel, usually harmless but sometimes able to turn into cancer over time — which is why screeni… Digestive Cholangitis A serious infection of the bile ducts, usually behind a blockage such as a gallstone, causing fever, jaundice and tummy pain — a m… Digestive Chronic pancreatitis Long-term inflammation that permanently damages the pancreas, causing recurring pain and, over time, problems digesting food and c… Digestive Coeliac disease An autoimmune condition where eating gluten damages the lining of the small intestine, causing digestive symptoms and poor absorpt… Digestive Constipation Passing stools less often than usual or finding them hard, dry or difficult to pass — usually improved by changes to diet, fluid a… Digestive Constipation in children A very common problem in children of hard, infrequent or difficult stools — usually not serious and treatable, though it can becom… Digestive Cyclical vomiting syndrome A condition causing recurrent episodes of severe vomiting with well periods in between, more common in children — where recognisin… Digestive Cyclospora A parasite that causes watery diarrhoea and tummy upset, usually caught abroad from contaminated food or water — treatable with sp… Digestive Diverticular disease A very common condition in which small pouches form in the wall of the large bowel — often causing no problems at all, but sometim… Digestive Dumping syndrome A condition, usually after stomach surgery, where food moves too quickly into the small intestine, causing symptoms after eating —… Digestive Dysentery An intestinal infection causing diarrhoea with blood or mucus, tummy cramps and fever — usually from contaminated food or water, w… Digestive Eosinophilic oesophagitis An allergic-type inflammation of the food pipe that causes difficulty swallowing and food getting stuck — managed with dietary cha… Digestive Fatty liver disease A build-up of fat in the liver, usually linked to weight, diabetes and metabolic health — very common, often silent, and largely i… Digestive Food intolerance Difficulty digesting or reacting to certain foods, causing symptoms like bloating and tummy upset — unpleasant but, unlike food al… Digestive Food poisoning Illness from eating contaminated food, causing sickness, diarrhoea and tummy cramps — usually mild and settling within days, where… Digestive Functional dyspepsia Persistent indigestion-type symptoms — such as upper tummy discomfort and fullness — where no ulcer or other structural cause is f… Digestive Gallbladder cancer A rare cancer of the gallbladder that often causes few early symptoms, so signs such as jaundice, tummy pain and weight loss shoul… Digestive Gallbladder polyps Small growths on the lining of the gallbladder, usually found by chance on a scan — most are harmless and just monitored, with rem… Digestive Gallstones Hard stones that form in the gallbladder, often causing no symptoms but sometimes triggering severe pain or complications — treate… Digestive Gastritis Inflammation of the lining of the stomach — causing indigestion-type pain, nausea and feeling full — usually managed by tackling t… Digestive Gastroparesis A condition where the stomach empties too slowly without a blockage, causing nausea, fullness and bloating — managed with dietary … Digestive Gilbert's syndrome A very common, harmless inherited condition causing mild, fluctuating jaundice at times of stress or illness — needing no treatmen… Digestive Haemochromatosis An inherited condition in which the body absorbs too much iron, which builds up and can damage organs — effectively treated by reg… Digestive Haemorrhoids Swollen blood vessels in or around the anus that can cause bright-red bleeding, itching, discomfort and lumps — usually eased by s… Digestive Hepatitis B A viral infection of the liver spread through blood and body fluids — often clearing in adults but sometimes long-term, preventabl… Digestive Hepatitis C A viral liver infection spread mainly through blood, often with no symptoms for years — now curable in most people with short cour… Digestive Hiatus hernia A condition in which part of the stomach slides up through the diaphragm into the chest — often causing no symptoms, but commonly … Digestive Hiccups Sudden, involuntary contractions of the breathing muscle causing the familiar "hic" sound — almost always harmless and brief, thou… Digestive Hirschsprung's disease A condition present from birth where nerve cells are missing from part of the bowel, causing severe constipation and blockage in b… Digestive Histamine intolerance A suggested sensitivity to histamine in foods, causing symptoms like flushing, headaches and tummy upset — managed by reducing hig… Digestive Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) A group of long-term conditions — mainly Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis — in which the immune system causes inflammation o… Digestive Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) A common long-term gut disorder causing abdominal pain and changes in bowel habit without damage to the bowel — managed with diet,… Digestive Ischaemic colitis A temporary reduction of blood flow to part of the large bowel, causing tummy pain and bloody diarrhoea — usually mild and settlin… Digestive Itchy bottom Persistent itching around the anus, which is common and usually not serious — often improved by good hygiene and avoiding irritant… Digestive Lactose intolerance Difficulty digesting the sugar (lactose) in milk, causing bloating, wind and diarrhoea after dairy — managed by limiting lactose, … Digestive Meckel's diverticulum A common, usually harmless small pouch present from birth in the small bowel — occasionally causing bleeding, inflammation or obst… Digestive Mesenteric ischaemia A reduction or blockage of the blood supply to the intestines, which can be a sudden emergency or a chronic problem — needing prom… Digestive Microscopic colitis A cause of chronic watery diarrhoea in which the bowel looks normal but is inflamed under the microscope — usually controlled with… Digestive Mucositis Painful inflammation and ulceration of the lining of the mouth or gut, a common side effect of some cancer treatments — where good… Digestive Nausea and vomiting Feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting) is a symptom rather than a disease in itself, so the most important step is to find… Digestive Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease A very common condition where fat builds up in the liver, usually linked to weight and metabolism — often harmless early on, and i… Digestive Oesophageal atresia and tracheo-oesophageal fistula A rare condition present from birth where the food pipe does not form properly and may connect to the windpipe — treated with surg… Digestive Oesophageal spasm Abnormal, sometimes painful contractions of the food pipe that can cause chest pain and difficulty swallowing — usually not danger… Digestive Oesophageal stricture A narrowing of the food pipe that makes swallowing difficult, often from acid reflux — usually treatable by stretching the narrowi… Digestive Pancreatic cancer A serious cancer that often causes vague symptoms and is diagnosed late — so awareness of signs such as jaundice, weight loss and … Digestive Peptic ulcer disease Open sores in the lining of the stomach or duodenum, usually caused by Helicobacter pylori infection or anti-inflammatory painkill… Digestive Peritonitis Inflammation of the lining of the tummy, usually from an infection or a burst organ such as the appendix — a medical emergency cau… Digestive Pilonidal sinus A small tunnel or pit in the skin at the top of the buttock cleft, which can become infected and painful — treated with drainage o… Digestive Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) A long-term autoimmune liver condition in which the small bile ducts are gradually damaged, which can lead to liver scarring — man… Digestive Primary sclerosing cholangitis A rare, long-term condition causing inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts, often linked to inflammatory bowel disease — mana… Digestive Problems swallowing pills Difficulty or anxiety about swallowing tablets or capsules, which is common — where simple techniques often help, and alternatives… Digestive Proctalgia fugax Sudden, short-lived episodes of intense pain in the back passage from muscle spasm — harmless but distressing, and usually needing… Digestive Proctitis Inflammation of the rectum — the last part of the bowel — causing rectal bleeding, mucus, an urgent or frequent need to poo and di… Digestive Pyloric stenosis A condition in young babies where the muscle at the stomach outlet thickens, causing forceful vomiting after feeds — treated very … Digestive Rectal bleeding Blood from the back passage, which usually has a minor cause such as piles but should always be checked, as it can occasionally si… Digestive Rectal prolapse When part of the lower bowel (rectum) slips down and protrudes through the anus, causing a bulge, discomfort and sometimes leakage… Digestive Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) An excess of bacteria in the small intestine, causing bloating, wind and digestive symptoms — treated with antibiotics and by addr… Digestive Thrombosed haemorrhoid A painful, firm lump at the anus caused by a blood clot in a haemorrhoid — very painful for a few days, then settling, with treatm… Digestive Travellers' diarrhoea Diarrhoea that develops while travelling, usually from contaminated food or water — typically mild and short-lived, managed with f… Digestive Viral hepatitis Inflammation of the liver caused by viruses (hepatitis A, B, C and E) — some types clear on their own, while chronic hepatitis B a… Digestive Volvulus A twisting of a loop of bowel that blocks it and can cut off its blood supply — a medical emergency causing severe tummy pain, swe… Digestive Wilson's disease A rare inherited condition in which copper builds up in the body, damaging the liver and brain — treatable with lifelong medicines… Digestive Wind and flatulence Passing gas (burping and flatulence) is a normal part of digestion — excessive or troublesome wind is common and usually improved …

Ear, nose and throat

Endocrine

Endocrine "Adrenal fatigue" (an unproven diagnosis) A popular but not medically recognised term blaming tiredness on "worn-out" adrenal glands — the symptoms are real, but this expla… Endocrine Acromegaly A rare condition where too much growth hormone, usually from a pituitary tumour, causes gradual enlargement of the hands, feet and… Endocrine Addison's disease A condition in which the adrenal glands no longer make enough of their own hormones — treated with lifelong steroid replacement th… Endocrine Adrenal incidentaloma A lump on an adrenal gland found by chance on a scan, which is usually harmless — assessed to check it is not producing excess hor… Endocrine Carcinoid syndrome A group of symptoms — such as flushing and diarrhoea — caused by hormones released by certain slow-growing tumours (neuroendocrine… Endocrine Conn's syndrome A hormonal cause of high blood pressure, where the adrenal glands make too much aldosterone — an important, treatable cause that i… Endocrine Cushing's syndrome A condition caused by too much of the hormone cortisol, leading to weight gain, skin and mood changes and high blood pressure — tr… Endocrine Delayed puberty When the signs of puberty start later than usual — often just a normal late-developing pattern, but sometimes needing assessment a… Endocrine Diabetes insipidus A rare condition causing extreme thirst and passing large amounts of urine, unrelated to blood sugar — caused by a problem with th… Endocrine Diabetic foot problems Foot complications of diabetes — from reduced sensation and poor circulation to ulcers and infection — that are serious but largel… Endocrine Diabetic neuropathy Nerve damage caused by long-term high blood sugar, most often affecting the feet and legs — helped by good blood sugar control, fo… Endocrine Galactorrhoea A milky discharge from the nipples unrelated to breastfeeding, usually caused by a raised level of the hormone prolactin — with a … Endocrine Gestational diabetes High blood sugar that first appears during pregnancy — usually managed with diet, activity and monitoring, with metformin or insul… Endocrine Goitre An enlargement of the thyroid gland causing a swelling in the neck — with several possible causes, assessed to check thyroid funct… Endocrine High calcium (hypercalcaemia) A higher-than-normal level of calcium in the blood, often found on a blood test — usually from an overactive parathyroid gland, an… Endocrine Hyperparathyroidism Overactivity of the parathyroid glands raises calcium in the blood, which can cause tiredness, kidney stones, bone thinning and ot… Endocrine Hyperprolactinaemia A raised level of the hormone prolactin — which can disturb periods, fertility and libido — often caused by a benign pituitary gro… Endocrine Hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) A blood sugar level that falls too low, most often in people with diabetes on certain treatments — causing symptoms that need quic… Endocrine Hypogonadism When the body produces too little of the sex hormones — such as low testosterone in men — causing a range of symptoms, and treatab… Endocrine Hyponatraemia (low sodium) A low level of sodium in the blood, which can cause tiredness, confusion and, if severe, serious symptoms — with many causes, trea… Endocrine Hypoparathyroidism A condition where the parathyroid glands produce too little parathyroid hormone, causing low calcium — managed with calcium and vi… Endocrine Hypopituitarism A condition where the pituitary gland does not make enough of one or more hormones, affecting other glands — managed by replacing … Endocrine Low blood sugar (non-diabetic) Low blood sugar in people who do not have diabetes, causing symptoms such as shakiness, sweating and hunger — usually manageable, … Endocrine Low calcium (hypocalcaemia) A lower-than-normal level of calcium in the blood, which can cause tingling, muscle cramps and spasms — treatable once the cause, … Endocrine Male "menopause" A term for symptoms sometimes attributed to falling testosterone with age in men — but symptoms are often due to lifestyle or othe… Endocrine Metabolic syndrome A cluster of conditions — including excess weight around the middle, high blood pressure, raised blood sugar and abnormal choleste… Endocrine Multinodular goitre An enlarged thyroid gland containing multiple nodules, which is common and usually harmless — monitored, and treated if it affects… Endocrine Obesity Carrying excess body fat that raises the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease — manag… Endocrine Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) A condition in which the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone, speeding the body up — treated by reducing hormone producti… Endocrine Phaeochromocytoma A rare tumour of the adrenal gland that releases surges of adrenaline-type hormones, causing episodes of high blood pressure, head… Endocrine Pituitary adenoma A usually benign growth on the pituitary gland that can affect hormones or press on nearby structures — often treatable with medic… Endocrine Postpartum thyroiditis Inflammation of the thyroid gland in the year after giving birth, causing an overactive then underactive thyroid — often temporary… Endocrine Precocious (early) puberty When the signs of puberty start unusually early — needing assessment to check for an underlying cause and, sometimes, treatment to… Endocrine Prolactinoma A common, non-cancerous pituitary tumour that produces too much of the hormone prolactin, affecting periods, fertility and sometim… Endocrine Short stature in children When a child is much shorter than expected for their age — often a normal familial or late-developing pattern, but sometimes needi… Endocrine Sick euthyroid syndrome Abnormal thyroid blood tests that occur during a serious non-thyroid illness, in a person whose thyroid gland is actually normal —… Endocrine Subclinical hypothyroidism A mild, early form of underactive thyroid where blood tests are borderline but the main thyroid hormone is still normal — often ju… Endocrine Thyroid nodule A lump in the thyroid gland, which is very common and usually harmless — assessed to check thyroid function and to make sure it is… Endocrine Thyroid nodules Lumps within the thyroid gland in the neck, which are very common and usually non-cancerous — assessed to check they are harmless … Endocrine Type 1 diabetes An autoimmune condition in which the pancreas makes little or no insulin, so lifelong insulin treatment is essential — managed wit… Endocrine Type 2 diabetes A long-term condition where blood glucose runs too high because the body does not respond to insulin properly — managed with lifes… Endocrine Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) A condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone, slowing the body down — reliably treated by replacing… Endocrine Vitamin D deficiency Low levels of vitamin D — important for healthy bones, muscles and teeth — which is common in the UK and usually corrected with a …

Eye

Eye Allergic conjunctivitis Itchy, red, watery eyes caused by an allergic reaction — commonly to pollen, dust mites or pets — which is harmless and manageable… Eye Amaurosis fugax A temporary loss of vision in one eye, often described as a curtain coming down, which usually signals a warning of stroke risk an… Eye Amblyopia (lazy eye) Reduced vision in one eye because it did not develop properly in early childhood — treatable when caught young, which is why early… Eye Astigmatism A very common, harmless focusing problem where the eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a football, causing blurred vision — … Eye Black eye Bruising of the skin around the eye, usually from a blow, which typically heals on its own over a couple of weeks — but where the … Eye Cataracts Clouding of the eye's natural lens that gradually blurs vision — very common with age and readily treated with a quick, highly suc… Eye Chalazion A painless lump in the eyelid from a blocked oil gland — common and usually settling with warm compresses, occasionally needing mi… Eye Charles Bonnet syndrome A condition where people with significant sight loss experience visual hallucinations — which are a result of the sight loss, not … Eye Chemical eye injury A splash of a chemical into the eye is a medical emergency — immediate, prolonged rinsing with water can save sight, so act first … Eye Colour blindness Difficulty distinguishing certain colours, usually inherited and present from birth — not a form of blindness, and most people ada… Eye Corneal abrasion A scratch on the clear front surface of the eye, causing pain, watering and light sensitivity — usually healing quickly, but needi… Eye Corneal ulcer An open sore on the clear front of the eye, usually from infection, causing a painful red eye — a serious condition needing urgent… Eye Dry eye disease A common condition where the eyes do not stay properly lubricated, causing grittiness, irritation and watering — managed mainly wi… Eye Ectropion A condition where the eyelid turns outwards, away from the eye, causing watering, irritation and dryness — usually treatable, ofte… Eye Entropion A condition where the eyelid turns inwards so the lashes rub against the eye, causing irritation — usually treatable, often with a… Eye Episcleritis Inflammation of a thin layer on the white of the eye, causing redness and mild irritation — usually harmless and self-limiting, un… Eye Eye cancer A rare cancer affecting the eye, which may cause changes in vision, a dark spot or shadow, or be found at an eye test — so new vis… Eye Eye floaters Small shapes that drift across your vision, usually harmless and part of ageing — but a sudden increase, especially with flashes, … Eye Eye injuries Injuries to the eye from foreign bodies, scratches, chemicals or blows — where many minor ones settle but certain injuries are eme… Eye Eye strain Tired, aching or uncomfortable eyes from prolonged focusing, especially on screens — harmless and eased by regular breaks and good… Eye Herpes simplex eye infections An eye infection caused by the cold sore virus, which can affect the cornea and, if untreated, threaten sight — where prompt treat… Eye Iritis Inflammation of the coloured part of the eye (the iris), causing a painful, red eye with light sensitivity and blurred vision — ne… Eye Keratitis Inflammation of the cornea (the clear front of the eye), which can threaten sight if caused by infection — needing prompt assessme… Eye Keratoconus A condition where the clear front of the eye (cornea) gradually thins and bulges into a cone shape, distorting vision — managed wi… Eye Macular hole A small gap that forms in the central part of the retina, causing blurred and distorted central vision — often treatable with surg… Eye Nystagmus A condition of repetitive, involuntary eye movements, which can be present from early life or develop later — assessed to find the… Eye Posterior vitreous detachment A common, usually harmless age-related change where the jelly inside the eye separates from the retina, causing new floaters and f… Eye Pterygium A fleshy growth on the surface of the eye, linked to sun and wind exposure, that can gradually extend onto the cornea — often harm… Eye Retinal artery occlusion A blockage of the artery supplying the retina, causing sudden, usually painless loss of vision — a medical emergency, and a warnin… Eye Retinal detachment An eye emergency in which the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye peels away, threatening sight — it needs urgent treatme… Eye Retinal vein occlusion A blockage of a vein draining the retina that can cause sudden, painless blurring or loss of vision in one eye — needing prompt as… Eye Retinoblastoma A rare eye cancer affecting young children, where an unusual white reflection in the eye (in photos) or a squint is a key sign — a… Eye Squint When the eyes point in different directions — common in children and important to treat early to protect vision, and also occurrin… Eye Subconjunctival haemorrhage A harmless bright red patch on the white of the eye from a tiny burst blood vessel — alarming to look at but usually painless and … Eye Thyroid eye disease An autoimmune condition, usually linked to an overactive thyroid, that causes the eyes to become inflamed and bulge — managed to p… Eye Twitching eyelid A common, harmless flickering or twitching of the eyelid, usually linked to tiredness, stress or caffeine — which settles on its o… Eye Watery eyes Excessive tearing or overflowing tears, which is common and usually harmless — often from irritation, dryness or a blocked tear du…

Eyes

General health

Genetic

Genetic Down's syndrome A genetic condition present from birth, caused by an extra chromosome, that affects development and learning and is associated wit… Genetic Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) A group of inherited conditions affecting connective tissue, causing overly flexible joints, stretchy or fragile skin and other sy… Genetic Klinefelter syndrome A genetic condition affecting males, in which there is an extra X chromosome, affecting testosterone and fertility — often managed… Genetic Marfan syndrome An inherited condition affecting the body's connective tissue, influencing the skeleton, eyes and heart — managed with monitoring … Genetic Neurofibromatosis A group of inherited conditions causing growths (usually non-cancerous) on nerves and skin changes — monitored by specialists, as … Genetic Turner syndrome A genetic condition affecting only females, in which one of the X chromosomes is missing or altered, affecting growth and developm…

Immune and rheumatology

Immune and rheumatology Sjögren’s syndrome A long-term autoimmune condition in which the immune system attacks the glands that make tears and saliva, causing dry eyes and a …

Infections

Mental health

Musculoskeletal

Neurological

Neurology

Neurology Bell's palsy A sudden weakness or drooping of one side of the face caused by inflammation of the facial nerve — usually improved by early stero… Neurology Cluster headache One of the most severe headache disorders, causing excruciating one-sided pain around the eye in bouts or clusters, with treatment… Neurology Dementia A group of progressive conditions affecting memory, thinking and daily living — where some types benefit from symptom-easing medic… Neurology Epilepsy A tendency to have recurrent seizures caused by bursts of abnormal electrical activity in the brain — controlled in most people wi… Neurology Essential tremor A common movement disorder that causes a rhythmic shaking, usually of the hands, which is worse with action — such as holding a cu… Neurology Migraine A common cause of recurrent, often disabling headache, frequently with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound — managed with tr… Neurology Multiple sclerosis A long-term autoimmune condition in which the immune system damages the protective covering around nerves in the brain and spinal … Neurology Myasthenia gravis An autoimmune condition in which antibodies disrupt the signals between nerve and muscle, causing muscle weakness that worsens wit… Neurology Narcolepsy A long-term neurological condition affecting the brain's control of sleep and wakefulness — causing excessive daytime sleepiness a… Neurology Neuropathic pain Pain caused by damage to or disease of the nerves themselves — often burning, shooting or electric-shock-like — which responds to … Neurology Parkinson's disease A progressive condition in which the loss of dopamine-producing brain cells causes slowness, stiffness and tremor — treated with m… Neurology Restless legs syndrome An uncomfortable, irresistible urge to move the legs that comes on at rest and in the evening and eases with movement — often link… Neurology Stroke & TIA (prevention) Preventing a first or further stroke after a stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) by treating its cause and risk factors — u… Neurology Tension-type headache The most common type of headache, usually felt as a mild-to-moderate band of pressure around the head, managed mainly with simple … Neurology Trigeminal neuralgia Sudden, severe, electric-shock-like pain in part of the face triggered by light touch or everyday movements — usually controlled w…

Reproductive health

Respiratory

Respiratory Acute bronchitis A usually viral, self-limiting chest infection that causes a cough — often with phlegm — for up to a few weeks after a cold; antib… Respiratory Acute respiratory distress syndrome A serious condition where the lungs cannot provide the body with enough oxygen, usually as a complication of severe illness or inj… Respiratory Alpha-1-antitrypsin deficiency An inherited condition that can lead to early lung disease (emphysema) and sometimes liver problems, due to a missing protective p… Respiratory Asbestosis Scarring of the lungs caused by breathing in asbestos fibres over time, causing breathlessness — a long-term condition managed sup… Respiratory Aspergillosis A group of conditions caused by a common mould (aspergillus), ranging from allergic reactions to lung infections — mainly affectin… Respiratory Asthma A long-term condition where the airways become inflamed and narrow, causing wheeze, cough and breathlessness — controlled mainly w… Respiratory Bronchiectasis A long-term condition in which the airways become abnormally widened and scarred, so mucus pools and chest infections keep coming … Respiratory Bronchiolitis A common viral chest infection in babies and young children that causes a cough, wheeze and breathing difficulty — usually mild an… Respiratory Chronic cough A cough lasting more than about eight weeks, which has several common and treatable causes — and always needs assessment, particul… Respiratory COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) A long-term lung condition, usually caused by smoking, in which the airways are persistently narrowed — managed by stopping smokin… Respiratory Coughing up blood Coughing up blood or blood-streaked phlegm, which always needs assessment — many causes are treatable infections, but it can occas… Respiratory Croup A common viral illness in young children causing a barking "seal-like" cough and noisy breathing — usually mild, and helped by a s… Respiratory Cystic fibrosis An inherited condition that causes thick, sticky mucus to build up in the lungs and digestive system — managed with lifelong speci… Respiratory Empyema A collection of pus in the space around the lung, usually a complication of pneumonia — a serious infection needing antibiotics an… Respiratory Finger clubbing A change in the shape of the fingertips and nails, which can be harmless or run in families, but can also be a sign of an underlyi… Respiratory Hyperventilation syndrome A pattern of over-breathing, often linked to anxiety, that causes breathlessness, dizziness and tingling — improved by learning to… Respiratory Influenza A common viral infection that tends to come on quickly with fever, aches and exhaustion — usually managed at home with rest, fluid… Respiratory Lung cancer One of the most common and serious cancers, often linked to smoking — where early diagnosis greatly improves treatment options, so… Respiratory Lung nodule A small spot on the lung, usually found by chance on a scan — most are harmless, and they are managed by monitoring or, where need… Respiratory Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) A rare but serious viral respiratory illness occurring mainly in and around the Arabian Peninsula, linked to camels — where the ri… Respiratory Newborn respiratory distress syndrome A breathing problem mainly affecting premature babies whose lungs are not fully developed — where specialist neonatal care, includ… Respiratory Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) A condition where the throat repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, interrupting breathing and causing loud snoring and daytim… Respiratory Occupational asthma Asthma caused or triggered by something breathed in at work, such as dusts, chemicals or fumes — often improving if the exposure i… Respiratory Pleural effusion A build-up of fluid between the lung and the chest wall, causing breathlessness and chest discomfort — treated according to its un… Respiratory Pleurisy Inflammation of the lining around the lungs, causing sharp chest pain that is worse on breathing in — treatment depends on the und… Respiratory Pneumonia An infection that inflames the tiny air sacs of one or both lungs, causing cough, fever, breathlessness and chest pain on breathin… Respiratory Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) Air leaking into the space around a lung, causing it to partly or fully collapse — which can cause sudden breathlessness and chest… Respiratory Pulmonary embolism (PE) A blood clot that has travelled to the lungs, blocking blood flow — a potentially life-threatening emergency, usually treated with… Respiratory Pulmonary fibrosis Scarring of the lung tissue that makes the lungs stiff and reduces oxygen transfer, causing breathlessness and cough — managed by … Respiratory Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) A common virus causing cold-like illness that is usually mild, but can cause serious breathing problems in babies and vulnerable p… Respiratory Sarcoidosis An inflammatory condition in which small clumps of immune cells (granulomas) form in the body — most often in the lungs and lymph … Respiratory Silicosis A serious, incurable lung disease caused by breathing in fine silica dust at work — preventable through dust control, so protectin… Respiratory Vocal cord dysfunction A condition where the vocal cords close abnormally when breathing in, causing sudden breathing difficulty that can mimic asthma — …

Sexual health

Sexual health Chlamydia The most common bacterial sexually transmitted infection, often with no symptoms — easily treated with antibiotics, but able to ca… Sexual health Genital herpes A common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus, causing recurring blisters and sores — manageable with… Sexual health Genital warts Small growths on or around the genitals caused by some types of HPV — harmless but sometimes bothersome, treatable, and preventabl… Sexual health Gonorrhoea A common bacterial sexually transmitted infection causing discharge and pain, though often symptomless — treated with antibiotics,… Sexual health Pubic lice Tiny insects that live in coarse body hair, usually the pubic area, spread mainly by close body contact — harmless but itchy, and … Sexual health Syphilis A bacterial sexually transmitted infection that progresses in stages and can cause serious harm if untreated — but is curable with… Sexual health Trichomoniasis A sexually transmitted infection caused by a tiny parasite, causing discharge and irritation though often symptomless — easily tre…

Skin

Skin Acanthosis nigricans Areas of dark, thickened, velvety skin, usually in body folds, often linked to insulin resistance or being overweight — where trea… Skin Acid and chemical burns Burns caused by contact with corrosive chemicals, which can keep damaging tissue until removed — where immediate, prolonged rinsin… Skin Acne A common skin condition causing spots, blackheads and inflammation, mainly on the face, back and chest — treated with topical and,… Skin Actinic keratoses Rough, scaly patches on sun-exposed skin caused by long-term sun damage — usually harmless but a sign of sun damage, with a small … Skin Actinic keratosis Rough, scaly patches of skin caused by long-term sun damage, common on sun-exposed areas — usually harmless but treated because a … Skin Alopecia areata A condition in which the immune system causes sudden, smooth, round patches of hair loss — usually on the scalp or beard — that of… Skin Angular cheilitis Sore, cracked, red skin at the corners of the mouth, often from moisture and infection — usually easily treated once the cause is … Skin Bedbug bites Small insects that hide in bedding and furniture and bite at night, causing itchy spots — a nuisance rather than a health danger, … Skin Birthmarks Coloured marks on the skin present at or soon after birth — usually harmless, with some fading over time, and treatments available… Skin Blisters Small pockets of fluid under the skin, usually from friction, burns or other damage — mostly harmless and healing on their own, wh… Skin Boils (furuncles) Painful, pus-filled bacterial infections of a hair follicle — usually caused by Staphylococcus aureus — that appear as a red, tend… Skin Bowen's disease A very early, surface form of skin cancer appearing as a persistent red, scaly patch — which is easily treatable and has an excell… Skin Bullous pemphigoid An autoimmune skin condition, mainly in older people, causing large, tense, itchy blisters — treatable, usually with treatments to… Skin Cellulitis A bacterial infection of the deeper layers of the skin and the tissue beneath it that makes an area hot, red, swollen and tender —… Skin Cherry angioma Small, bright red spots made of tiny blood vessels, very common with age — harmless and needing no treatment.… Skin Chilblains Small, itchy, red or purple swellings on the skin (often toes or fingers) caused by cold, which usually heal on their own — with k… Skin Chronic urticaria Itchy, raised weals (hives) that come and go for six weeks or more, often with no identifiable trigger — usually well controlled w… Skin Cold sores Small, painful blisters around the lips and mouth caused by the herpes simplex virus, which tend to recur but are usually self-lim… Skin Contact dermatitis Skin inflammation caused by contact with a substance — either an irritant such as soaps and detergents, or an allergen such as nic… Skin Corns and calluses Areas of thickened, hardened skin that form in response to pressure or friction, usually on the feet — harmless and manageable, of… Skin Dandruff A very common, harmless condition causing white or grey flakes of skin on the scalp and sometimes an itchy scalp — easily managed … Skin Dermatitis herpetiformis An intensely itchy, blistering rash that is the skin manifestation of coeliac disease — managed with a gluten-free diet and, often… Skin Dermatofibroma A common, harmless firm lump in the skin, often on the legs — which usually needs no treatment, though a firm nodule should be con… Skin Dermographism A common, harmless condition where firmly stroking or scratching the skin causes raised, itchy welts along the line — a form of ph… Skin Discoid eczema A form of eczema causing distinctive round or oval patches of itchy, inflamed skin — usually treatable with moisturisers and stero… Skin Eczema (atopic dermatitis) A common, long-term condition that makes skin dry, itchy and inflamed in flare-ups — managed with regular moisturisers, treatments… Skin Eczema herpeticum A serious infection of eczema-affected skin with the cold sore (herpes) virus, causing a rapidly spreading rash — a medical emerge… Skin Epidermoid cyst A common, harmless lump under the skin containing a soft, cheesy material — which often needs no treatment, but can be removed if … Skin Epidermolysis bullosa A group of rare inherited conditions that make the skin extremely fragile so it blisters and tears easily — where careful skin pro… Skin Erysipelas A bacterial skin infection affecting the upper skin layers, causing a well-defined, raised, red and painful area — treatable with … Skin Erythema multiforme A skin reaction, usually to an infection (often cold sores), causing distinctive "target"-shaped spots — usually mild and self-lim… Skin Erythema nodosum Tender red or purple lumps, usually on the shins, caused by inflammation of the fat under the skin — often triggered by an infecti… Skin Erythromelalgia A rare condition causing episodes of burning pain, redness and heat, usually in the feet or hands — where cooling and avoiding tri… Skin Excessive sweating Sweating much more than needed to control body temperature, which can affect daily life and confidence — often manageable with ant… Skin Female-pattern hair loss A common cause of gradual hair thinning in women, usually over the top of the scalp — often inherited, and worth assessing to chec… Skin Fungal skin infections Common, treatable infections of the skin, nails or scalp caused by fungi — such as athlete’s foot, ringworm and fungal nail infect… Skin Granuloma annulare A harmless skin condition causing rings of small, firm bumps, usually on the hands and feet — which often clears on its own withou… Skin Head lice (nits) Tiny insects that live on the scalp and lay eggs (nits) glued to the hair, spread by head-to-head contact — itching is common but … Skin Henoch-Schonlein purpura A condition, mainly in children, where small blood vessels become inflamed, causing a characteristic rash, joint pain and tummy pa… Skin Herpetic whitlow A painful herpes virus infection of a finger, causing blisters and swelling — which usually heals on its own over a couple of week… Skin Hidradenitis suppurativa A long-term inflammatory skin condition causing painful lumps, abscesses and scarring in skin folds such as the armpits and groin … Skin Ichthyosis A group of conditions causing persistently dry, scaly skin, usually inherited and lifelong — where regular intensive moisturising … Skin Impetigo A common and very contagious bacterial skin infection — most often in children — that causes weeping sores and golden-brown crusts… Skin Ingrown hair A hair that curls back or grows sideways into the skin, causing a small, itchy or painful bump — common after shaving, and usually… Skin Ingrown toenail When the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness and swelling — often helped by good foot care, w… Skin Intertrigo A red, sore rash in skin folds caused by friction, moisture and warmth, often with added infection — managed by keeping the area c… Skin Jellyfish and sea creature stings Stings from jellyfish, weever fish and other sea creatures, usually causing painful but minor reactions — where simple first aid h… Skin Jock itch A common, itchy fungal infection of the groin skin, more common in men and in warm, moist conditions — easily treated with antifun… Skin Keloid scar An overgrown scar that spreads beyond the original wound, caused by excess collagen during healing — harmless but sometimes itchy … Skin Keratosis pilaris A very common, harmless skin condition causing small rough bumps, usually on the upper arms and thighs — not curable but easily im… Skin Leg ulcer A long-lasting wound on the lower leg, most often caused by poor vein circulation — treated with compression and wound care, and o… Skin Lichen planus An itchy, immune-related inflammatory condition that causes purplish, flat-topped bumps on the skin and lacy white patches in the … Skin Lipoma A soft, harmless lump of fatty tissue under the skin that grows slowly — usually needing no treatment, though it can be removed if… Skin Male-pattern baldness The most common cause of hair loss in men, a gradual, inherited thinning and receding of hair — harmless, with treatment options f… Skin Mastocytosis A rare condition with too many mast cells (a type of immune cell) building up in the skin or body — causing symptoms like flushing… Skin Melanoma A serious form of skin cancer that can spread if not caught early — usually appearing as a new or changing mole, so knowing the AB… Skin Melasma Brown or grey-brown patches of increased pigmentation, usually on the face, linked to sun and hormones — harmless, and helped main… Skin Milia Tiny white bumps on the skin, common in babies and adults, caused by trapped keratin — harmless and usually clearing on their own.… Skin Molluscum contagiosum A common, harmless viral skin infection causing small, firm, raised spots — mainly in children — that usually clears on its own wi… Skin Necrotising fasciitis A rare but life-threatening bacterial infection that spreads rapidly through tissue beneath the skin — a medical emergency needing… Skin Non-melanoma skin cancer The most common type of skin cancer, usually caused by sun exposure and usually very treatable — appearing as a persistent lump or… Skin Onycholysis When a nail lifts away from the nail bed underneath, leaving a white or discoloured area — usually harmless, with many causes, and… Skin Orf A viral skin infection caught from infected sheep or goats, causing a sore lump usually on the hands — which is harmless and heals… Skin Paronychia Infection or inflammation of the skin around a nail, causing redness, swelling and pain — usually treatable, with an acute (sudden… Skin Pemphigus vulgaris A rare autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the skin and mouth, causing painful blisters and raw areas — treatable… Skin Perioral dermatitis A bumpy, red rash that appears around the mouth — sparing the narrow border of skin next to the lips — and is often triggered or w… Skin Pityriasis rosea A common, harmless skin rash, often starting with one larger patch followed by many smaller ones, which clears on its own over sev… Skin Pityriasis versicolor A common fungal skin condition causing patches of lighter or darker skin, usually on the trunk — harmless and treatable, though th… Skin Polymorphic light eruption A common itchy rash triggered by sunlight, often appearing in spring or on holiday — usually settling in days and manageable with … Skin Pompholyx A type of eczema that causes intensely itchy small blisters on the palms, sides of the fingers and soles, which can dry, crack and… Skin Pressure sores Damage to the skin and underlying tissue caused by sustained pressure, usually in people with limited mobility — largely preventab… Skin Prickly heat An itchy, prickly rash of tiny spots caused by blocked sweat glands in hot, humid conditions — harmless and settling quickly once … Skin Psoriasis A long-term immune-driven skin condition in which skin cells build up too quickly to form raised, scaly patches — managed with cre… Skin Pyoderma gangrenosum A rare condition causing rapidly enlarging, painful skin ulcers, often linked to inflammatory conditions — where prompt diagnosis … Skin Ringworm A common, contagious fungal skin infection causing a red, scaly, ring-shaped rash — easily treated with antifungal creams, despite… Skin Rosacea A common, long-term skin condition that causes facial redness, flushing and sometimes small bumps and pus-spots — not curable, but… Skin Scabies An intensely itchy skin condition caused by tiny mites burrowing under the skin — treated with a cream applied over the whole body… Skin Seborrhoeic dermatitis A common, long-term skin condition causing flaky, scaly, itchy and slightly red patches in the oily areas of the body — such as th… Skin Seborrhoeic keratosis A very common, harmless, warty skin growth that appears with age — often looking "stuck on" — needing no treatment unless botherso… Skin Shingles A painful, blistering rash caused by reactivation of the chickenpox virus along a single nerve — eased and shortened by antiviral … Skin Skin abscess A painful, pus-filled lump under the skin caused by a bacterial infection — where small ones may settle but larger ones usually ne… Skin Skin cyst A harmless, fluid- or keratin-filled lump under the skin — usually needing no treatment, but sometimes removed if it becomes infla… Skin Skin tags Small, soft, harmless growths of skin, common in skin folds — needing no treatment, though they can be removed if they catch or bo… Skin Stevens-Johnson syndrome A rare but serious reaction, usually to a medicine, causing a spreading rash with blistering and peeling of the skin and mucous me… Skin Stretch marks Common, harmless streaks or lines on the skin that appear when it stretches, such as in pregnancy or growth spurts — usually fadin… Skin Subungual haematoma A collection of blood trapped under a nail, usually after an injury, causing a dark discolouration and often throbbing pain — whic… Skin Sunburn Red, sore, hot skin caused by too much UV exposure — usually settling in a few days, but painful and a risk factor for skin cancer… Skin Telogen effluvium A temporary increase in hair shedding, often a few months after a stress on the body such as illness, childbirth or a crash diet —… Skin Tick bites Bites from tiny blood-feeding creatures found in grassy and wooded areas — usually harmless, but some can spread Lyme disease, so … Skin Traction alopecia Hair loss caused by repeated pulling or tension on the hair — usually from tight hairstyles — which can be reversible if caught ea… Skin Urticaria (hives) An itchy, raised rash (hives) that appears when the skin releases histamine, often briefly and harmlessly, but sometimes long-last… Skin Varicose eczema A type of eczema on the lower legs caused by poor vein circulation, causing itchy, discoloured, dry skin — managed with skin care … Skin Venous eczema A type of eczema on the lower legs caused by poor blood flow in the leg veins — managed by treating the skin and improving the und… Skin Vitiligo An autoimmune condition in which the skin loses its pigment, leaving well-defined pale or white patches — not harmful or contagiou… Skin Xanthelasma Soft yellowish patches of fatty deposit on the eyelids, which are harmless but can be a sign of raised cholesterol worth checking.…

Solutions & prevention

Urinary

Urinary Acute kidney injury A sudden reduction in kidney function, often during another illness such as dehydration or infection — usually reversible if treat… Urinary Bedwetting in children Involuntary wetting during sleep in children, which is very common, usually a normal part of development, and treatable — not the … Urinary Bladder stones Hard mineral lumps that form in the bladder, often when it does not empty fully, causing tummy pain and urinary symptoms — usually… Urinary Blood in urine Blood in the urine, whether visible or found on a test, always needs checking — many causes are minor and treatable, but it can oc… Urinary Getting up at night to pass urine Waking one or more times at night to pass urine, which is common (especially with age) and has many causes — often improved by add… Urinary Glomerulonephritis Inflammation of the kidneys' tiny filters, which can cause blood or protein in the urine and affect kidney function — a group of c… Urinary Hydronephrosis Swelling of a kidney caused by a build-up of urine, usually because something is blocking or slowing its drainage — treated by rel… Urinary IgA nephropathy One of the most common kidney filter conditions, where an antibody builds up in the kidneys causing blood and protein in the urine… Urinary Interstitial cystitis A long-term condition causing bladder pain and a frequent, urgent need to pass urine, without infection — managed with a combinati… Urinary Nephrotic syndrome A kidney condition in which large amounts of protein leak into the urine, causing swelling and other problems — treated according … Urinary Polycystic kidney disease An inherited condition in which fluid-filled cysts develop in the kidneys, which can gradually reduce kidney function — managed to… Urinary Protein in urine Protein leaking into the urine, often found on a test, which can be a sign of a kidney problem — so it is assessed to find and add… Urinary Recurrent urine infections Repeated bladder infections, common in women, causing burning and frequent urination — managed by treating infections and preventi… Urinary Stress urinary incontinence Leaking urine when the bladder is under pressure — such as coughing, laughing or exercising — usually from weakened pelvic-floor m… Urinary Urethritis Inflammation of the tube that carries urine out of the body, often causing pain passing urine and discharge — frequently due to a … Urinary Urge incontinence A sudden, urgent need to pass urine, sometimes leaking before reaching the toilet, caused by an overactive bladder — common and tr… Urinary Urinary retention Being unable to empty the bladder fully or at all — which can come on suddenly (a painful emergency) or gradually — needing prompt…

Urology

Urology Balanitis Inflammation of the head of the penis, and often the foreskin — causing redness, soreness, itching, swelling and sometimes dischar… Urology Enlarged prostate (BPH) A common non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate that can squeeze the urethra and cause troublesome urinary symptoms — managed w… Urology Epididymitis Inflammation, usually from infection, of the tube behind the testicle — causing a gradually painful, swollen scrotum and treated w… Urology Erectile dysfunction Difficulty getting or keeping an erection firm enough for satisfactory sex — common, often treatable, and sometimes an early sign … Urology Kidney infection A urinary infection that has reached the kidney — causing fever, chills and back or side pain, and needing prompt antibiotics, wit… Urology Kidney stones Hard deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe loin-to-groin pain as they move into the tube to the bladder — many sm… Urology Low testosterone (male hypogonadism) When the testicles produce too little testosterone, sometimes causing tiredness, low libido, erectile problems, low mood and reduc… Urology Premature ejaculation When ejaculation happens sooner than wanted during sex, consistently and in a way that causes distress — the commonest male sexual… Urology Prostatitis Inflammation or infection of the prostate gland that causes pelvic or perineal pain and urinary symptoms — ranging from a sudden, … Urology Urinary incontinence The involuntary leakage of urine — a common and treatable problem, not just a part of ageing — where first-line care is non-drug m… Urology Urinary tract infection (UTI) A common infection of the bladder or wider urinary tract that typically causes burning when passing urine and a frequent urge to g…

Answers

Frequently asked questions

How do I find which medicines treat a condition?

Pick the condition below to see the medicine classes used for it, with a plain-language note on where each fits, plus the relevant clinical calculators and FAQs. Each medicine links to a full, dose-free guide.

Do these pages give doses?

No. Like the rest of the site, condition pages are dose-free. They explain which medicines are used and why, but doses depend on the individual and the exact product — always confirm with your prescriber, the BNF and the product labelling.

Are these a substitute for medical advice?

No. They are education and reference only. They help you understand your condition and its treatment, but decisions about your own care should always be made with a qualified clinician.

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