Common diseases and ailments in English
In this class we are going learn about the common diseases and ailments in English. Their names, causes and when possible their cures.
Definition: What’s the difference between an ailment and a disease?
The words “ailment” and “disease” are similar, but they have some differences:
Ailment is a general term for any minor or mild health problem or illness. Ailments are often short-term and not very serious, like a headache, sore throat, or cold. The word is used for simple, everyday health issues.
Disease is a more specific term used for a condition that affects the body or mind in a way that is harmful or abnormal. Diseases are usually more serious, can last longer, and may need special treatment. Examples include diabetes, cancer, or heart disease.
In summary:
- An ailment is usually a minor health problem.
- A disease is a more serious, defined medical condition.
SECTION ONE: AILMENTS
The ten most common ailments in English:
1. Common Cold
The common cold is usually caused by viruses, such as the rhinovirus, which are easily spread through air or by touching contaminated surfaces. Since there is no cure, people are advised to rest and stay hydrated, while over-the-counter medications may help relieve symptoms. *(Example of a relative clause: “which are easily spread through air or by touching contaminated surfaces”)*
2. Headache
A headache can result from various factors, including stress, dehydration, or even underlying health conditions that require medical attention. If headaches become frequent, it is important to consult a doctor, although many can be treated with rest, hydration, and mild painkillers. *(Example of a conditional clause: “If headaches become frequent, it is important to consult a doctor”)*
3. Sore Throat
Sore throats are often caused by viral or bacterial infections; however, dry air or allergies can also be responsible. While most sore throats resolve on their own, those that persist for more than a week should be evaluated by a physician. *(Example of a passive voice: “those that persist for more than a week should be evaluated by a physician”)*
4. Stomach Ache
Stomach aches may be triggered by indigestion, food poisoning, or stress, all of which can disrupt the digestive system. Although mild stomach aches usually improve with rest and fluids, severe or prolonged pain demands medical attention. *(Example of a participial phrase: “all of which can disrupt the digestive system”)*
5. Fever
Fever, which is the body’s natural response to infection, is most commonly caused by viruses or bacteria. While taking fever-reducing medication can be helpful, it is essential that the underlying cause be identified if the fever is high or lasts longer than expected. *(Example of a noun clause: “that the underlying cause be identified”)*
6. Cough
A cough may develop as a result of a cold, allergies, or even more serious conditions such as bronchitis. Because some coughs are persistent, it is advisable to seek medical advice if the cough lasts more than two weeks. *(Example of an adverbial clause: “if the cough lasts more than two weeks”)*
7. Back Pain
Back pain, which affects many adults at some point in their lives, can be caused by muscle strain, poor posture, or injury. While gentle exercise and pain relief are beneficial, those who experience numbness or weakness should contact a healthcare provider. *(Example of a non-defining relative clause: “which affects many adults at some point in their lives”)*
8. Allergies
Allergies occur when the immune system reacts to harmless substances like pollen or dust, producing symptoms such as sneezing and itching. Although avoiding triggers is best, some people, whose symptoms are severe, require prescription medication or allergy shots. *(Example of a reduced relative clause: “whose symptoms are severe”)*
9. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is frequently caused by infections, food intolerance, or stress, and it leads to dehydration if not managed properly. Provided that fluids are replaced, most cases resolve quickly, but persistent diarrhea should be investigated. *(Example of an inverted conditional: “Provided that fluids are replaced, most cases resolve quickly”)*
10. Constipation
Constipation, which can result from a lack of fiber, dehydration, or inactivity, causes discomfort and difficulty passing stools. Increasing fiber intake and drinking more water, both of which are recommended, usually help relieve the problem. *(Example of a parenthetical phrase: “both of which are recommended”)*
SECTION TWO: DISEASES
1. Diabetes Type 2
*Diabetes*, which affects how the body processes blood sugar, is usually caused by a combination of genetic factors and lifestyle choices such as poor diet and lack of exercise (TYPE 2). Although it cannot be cured, diabetes can often be managed effectively with medication, a healthy diet, regular exercise, and monitoring blood sugar levels.
*(Non-defining relative clause: “which affects how the body processes blood sugar”)*
2. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Hypertension can develop for a variety of reasons, including genetics, obesity, high salt intake, and stress. If high blood pressure is not controlled, it may lead to more serious health problems, such as heart disease and stroke, so medication and lifestyle changes are commonly recommended.
*(Conditional clause: “If high blood pressure is not controlled, it may lead to more serious health problems”)*
3. Coronary Artery Disease
Coronary artery disease, which is a narrowing or blockage of the blood vessels that supply the heart, is mainly caused by the buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. While medications and surgical procedures may be necessary, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle is essential for long-term management.
*(Non-defining relative clause: “which is a narrowing or blockage of the blood vessels that supply the heart”)*
4. Asthma
Asthma is a chronic disease that causes the airways to become inflamed and narrow, often triggered by allergens, exercise, or pollution. Since asthma attacks can be life-threatening, patients are advised to use inhalers and avoid known triggers whenever possible.
*(Passive voice: “patients are advised to use inhalers and avoid known triggers”)*
5. Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD, whose main cause is long-term smoking, leads to breathing difficulties and persistent cough. Although the damage cannot be completely reversed, quitting smoking and using certain medications can slow the disease’s progression.
*(Relative clause with possessive pronoun: “whose main cause is long-term smoking”)*
6. Cancer
Cancer, which refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells, can be caused by genetic mutations, environmental factors, or lifestyle choices like smoking. Treatment varies depending on the type and stage of cancer, but it often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
*(Non-defining relative clause: “which refers to the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells”)*
7. Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is interrupted, most often because of a blood clot or a burst blood vessel. Provided that treatment begins within the first few hours, the chances of recovery improve significantly.
*(Inverted conditional: “Provided that treatment begins within the first few hours, the chances of recovery improve significantly”)*
8. Influenza (Flu)
Influenza is a viral infection that spreads easily from person to person, especially during the winter months. While most people recover with rest and fluids, those who are very young, elderly, or have weakened immune systems are at a higher risk for complications and may require antiviral medication.
*(Reduced relative clause: “those who are very young, elderly, or have weakened immune systems”)*
9. Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease, which leads to memory loss and cognitive decline, is most common in older adults and may be influenced by genetics and lifestyle factors. Although there is no cure yet, certain treatments and therapies can help slow its progression and improve quality of life.
*(Non-defining relative clause: “which leads to memory loss and cognitive decline”)*
10. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is caused by the breakdown of cartilage in the joints, often due to aging, joint injury, or obesity. If symptoms become severe, doctors may recommend physical therapy, medications, or even joint replacement surgery.
*(Conditional clause: “If symptoms become severe, doctors may recommend physical therapy, medications, or even joint replacement surgery”)*