Acidosis occurs when acid builds up or bicarbonate (a base) is lost. Acidosis is classified as either respiratory acidosis or metabolic acidosis. Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is too much carbon dioxide (an acid) in the body. Definition of the pathology
Addison's disease, also known as adrenal insufficiency, is a rare condition that occurs when the body doesn't make enough of certain hormones. In Addison's disease, the adrenal glands make too little cortisol and often too little of another hormone, aldosterone. Definition of the pathology
Anaemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells carry oxygen to the body's tissues. Different types of anaemia include Anaemia due to vitamin B12 deficiency. Anaemia due to folate (folic acid) deficiency. Definition of the pathology
Angioedema is swelling similar to hives, but the swelling is under the skin rather than on the surface. Hives are often referred to as welts. They are surface swellings. It is possible to have angioedema without hives. Definition of the pathology
Asthenia is a generalised physical weakness and/or lack of energy and strength. It is not a disease but a common sign of many acute and chronic conditions. Asthenia can also occur as a side effect of medication. Definition of the pathology
Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot use the insulin it does produce effectively. Insulin is a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Definition of the pathology
Haemochromatosis is a condition in which the body can build up too much iron in the skin, heart, liver, pancreas, pituitary gland and joints. Too much iron is toxic to the body and, over time, the high iron levels can damage tissues and organs and lead to death. Definition of the pathology
Hyperlipidaemia (high cholesterol) is an excess of lipids or fats in your blood. It can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke because blood can't flow easily through your arteries. Exercise and a healthy diet can help lower your cholesterol. Definition of the pathology
Graves' disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the thyroid gland becomes overactive (hyperthyroidism). It is characterised by bulging eyes (exophthalmos), heat intolerance, increased energy, sleep problems, diarrhoea and anxiety. Definition of the pathology
Hypoglycaemia is a condition in which your blood sugar (glucose) levels are lower than the normal range. Glucose is your body's main source of energy. Hypoglycaemia is often associated with diabetes treatment. But other medicines and a variety of conditions - many of them rare - can cause low blood sugar in people who don't have diabetes. Definition of the pathology
An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) is when your thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. Common signs of an underactive thyroid are tiredness, weight gain and feeling depressed. Definition of the pathology
Respiratory allergies occur when the immune system has a negative reaction to certain substances, such as dust, pollen or the hair of certain animals. These allergies are very common and can occur at any age. The body reacts against a specific substance: the allergen. Definition of the pathology
Red, bumpy, itchy skin can be irritating, painful and embarrassing. Rashes can be caused by many things, including exposure to certain plants (such as poison ivy), or an allergic reaction to a medicine or food. Rashes can also be caused by an illness, such as measles or chickenpox. Definition of the pathology
Not eating enough fresh fruit and vegetables can cause a deficiency. People feel tired, weak and irritable. Severe deficiency, called scurvy, causes bruising, gum and tooth problems, dry hair and skin, and anaemia. Diagnosis is based on symptoms and sometimes blood tests. Definition of the pathology
