What Is Systemic Lupus Erythematosus? Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease that is characterized by involvement of multiple organs due to the production of antibodies to components of the cell nucleus.1 SLE has an unpredictable course of acute ...
Read More »Sjögren’s Syndrome
What Is Sjögren’s Syndrome? Sjögren’s syndrome is a systemic inflammatory autoimmune disease with a chronic, progressive course that primarily attacks the lacrimal glands of the eye and the salivary glands of the mouth, which are exocrine glands. Exocrine glands secrete the substances they ...
Read More »Insomnia
What Is Insomnia? Insomnia is a distressing sleep disorder that includes inability to fall asleep, inability to stay asleep, and inability to get deep sleep depending on the type of insomnia. Q: What are the types of insomnia? A: There ...
Read More »Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
What Is Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)? GERD is an upper digestive disorder that is characterized by a decrease in lower esophageal sphincter pressure (LES,) which allows the abnormal reflux or backflow of stomach contents into the esophagus. It is also ...
Read More »Heartburn
What Is Heartburn? Heartburn is a functional upper digestive symptom of esophagitis that is characterized by a burning sensation behind the breastbone. Q: Why does esophagitis cause heartburn? A: Esophagitis is inflammation of the mucosal lining of the esophagus. The most ...
Read More »Esophageal Motor Abnormalities – Food Sticks In Esophagus
What Are Esophageal Motor Abnormalities? Esophageal motor abnormalities are disorders of the esophagus involving altered muscular motility characterized by impaired esophageal peristalsis, or the progressive wave-like movement that occurs automatically when food or fluids are swallowed. Q: What is altered ...
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