Condition Lookup

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Sub-Category:

Learning disabilities

Specialty: Pediatrics

Category: Growth and Development Disorders

Symptoms:
difficulty with reading (dyslexia); difficulty with writing (dysgraphia); difficulty with math (dyscalculia); problems with memory or focus

Root Cause:
Differences in brain structure and function affecting information processing, often with a genetic or environmental basis.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Psychoeducational assessments, cognitive testing, and observations of academic performance by specialists.

Treatment:
Individualized education plans (IEPs), educational therapy, tutoring, and accommodations such as extended test times or assistive technology.

Medications:
Medications are not typically prescribed for learning disabilities themselves but may address comorbid conditions like ADHD using stimulants (e.g., methylphenidate ) or non-stimulants (e.g., atomoxetine ).

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Affects approximately 5-15% of school-aged children, depending on the definition and diagnostic criteria.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Family history, premature birth, prenatal exposure to substances, and environmental deprivation.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
With proper support, most children can achieve academic success and lead fulfilling lives.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Poor academic performance, low self-esteem, and difficulties with employment or independent living in adulthood.

Delirium

Specialty: Mental Health and Psychology

Category: Emergency

Sub-category: Cognitive Disorders

Symptoms:
confusion; disorientation; hallucinations; restlessness; fluctuating levels of consciousness; impaired attention

Root Cause:
Acute disturbance in brain function, often caused by an underlying medical condition, medication, or substance withdrawal.

How it's Diagnosed: videos
Clinical evaluation, including history, physical examination, and laboratory tests to identify contributing factors. Use of diagnostic tools like the Confusion Assessment Method (CAM).

Treatment:
Treating the underlying cause (e.g., infection, electrolyte imbalance); supportive care to ensure safety and minimize distress.

Medications:
Antipsychotics like haloperidol or quetiapine for severe agitation; benzodiazepines for delirium caused by alcohol withdrawal.

Prevalence: How common the health condition is within a specific population.
Common in hospitalized patients, especially older adults; occurs in up to 50% of elderly individuals post-surgery.

Risk Factors: Factors or behaviors that increase the likelihood of developing the condition.
Advanced age, pre-existing cognitive impairment, severe illness, substance abuse, or multiple medications.

Prognosis: The expected outcome or course of the condition over time.
Reversible with prompt treatment of the underlying cause; delayed treatment may result in prolonged symptoms or complications.

Complications: Additional problems or conditions that may arise as a result of the original condition.
Long-term cognitive decline, increased risk of institutionalization, and higher mortality rates in severe cases.