A rare disease is one that affects fewer than 200,000 people in the United States. There are nearly 7,000 rare diseases affecting more than 25 million Americans. The exact cause for many rare diseases is unknown, however, for many the problem can be traced to mutations (changes) in a single gene. Genetics are just one piece of the puzzle. Find out more about rare diseases in MedlinePlus.
On March 1, learn more about how NIH supports rare diseases research and the development of diagnostics and treatments at the virtual Rare Disease Day conference. The event is free and open to the public.
Macular Degeneration
Macular degeneration, or age-related macular degeneration (AMD), is a leading cause of vision loss in Americans 60 and older. It destroys your sharp, central vision making it difficult to see objects clearly and do tasks like reading and driving. Regular comprehensive eye exams can detect macular degeneration before the disease causes vision loss. Treatment can slow vision loss but it does not restore vision. Learn more about age-related macular degeneration.
Chest Pain
Having pain in your chest can be scary but it doesn’t always mean that you are having a heart attack. There can be many other causes, including:
Other heart problems, such as angina
Panic attacks
Digestive problems, such as heartburn or esophagus disorders
Sore muscles
Lung diseases, such as pneumonia, pleurisy, or pulmonary embolism
Costochondritis, an inflammation of joints in your chest
Some of these problems can be serious. Get immediate medical care if you have chest pain that does not go away, crushing pain or pressure in the chest, or chest pain along with nausea, sweating, dizziness or shortness of breath. Treatment depends on the cause of the pain.
Eating Disorders
How do you feel after you eat? Satisfied? Too full? Or maybe even guilty? Being too focused on food can sometimes turn into an eating disorder. People with eating disorders have severe, persistent, and unhealthy thoughts and behaviors about food. As a result, they might eat way too little or way too much. You can’t tell by someone’s size if they have an eating disorder. But you can look for certain signs:
Skipping meals, making excuses for not eating, or eating in secret or separately
Persistent worrying or talking about healthy eating, exercise, being overweight, or losing weight
Eating much more food in a meal or snack than what’s considered normal
Eating large amounts of sweets or high-fat foods
Leaving during meals to use the toilet
Expressing depression, disgust, shame, or guilt about eating habits
Frequently checking the mirror for perceived flaws
Learn more about eating disorders and where to find help.
What is a Cavity?
A cavity, or dental caries, is a hole in your tooth caused by tooth decay. Tooth decay happens when bacteria in your mouth combine with food to form a soft, sticky film called plaque. The plaque makes acids that attack the tooth’s surface, or enamel, causing cavities and gum disease. Learn what you can do to prevent tooth decay.
Garlic Bok Choy
Garlic bok choy is an easy side dish that can be paired with your favorite vegetarian or protein dish.
