Over the years, doctors have discovered that the cause of some diseases is actually another seemingly unrelated disease, also known as a "shadow disease." Below are six dangerous diseases and their associated conditions that can help prevent "shadow diseases."
1. Migraines
Shadow Disease: Stroke or Heart Disease
If migraines occur regularly, especially when accompanied by visual disturbances or seeing halos, one should be cautious of the risk of heart disease or stroke. Medical researchers point out that if migraines occur more than once a month or more than once a week, the chances of heart disease increase by 50% and three times, respectively.
2. Endometriosis
Shadow Disease: Melanoma
A large-scale study in France over a 12-year period in 2007 confirmed that patients with endometriosis had a melanoma incidence rate as high as 62%. Researchers believe that genetic defects may be the cause of both diseases. Patients with endometriosis should ideally undergo melanoma screening tests. Additionally, they should regularly monitor any abnormal changes in the skin and consult a doctor promptly.
3. Hypertension
Shadow Disease: Diabetes
A ten-year study conducted on 38,000 middle-aged women by Brigham Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School found that regardless of weight, hypertension doubles the risk of diabetes. The common cause of both diseases is inflammation within the body or dysfunction of the inner walls of blood vessels. Therefore, individuals with hypertension or a tendency towards it should ideally undergo diabetes testing.
4. Psoriasis
Shadow Disease: Heart Disease
Medical research has found that psoriasis increases the risk of heart disease, and severe psoriasis can double the risk of heart disease. The reason is that the immune system dysfunction causing psoriasis can also lead to cardiovascular inflammation. If psoriasis is detected, it should be treated promptly, and maintaining heart health through diet and exercise is recommended.
5. Asthma
Shadow Disease: Depression and Anxiety
In 2004, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention announced that 18% of asthma patients also suffer from psychological disorders such as depression and anxiety. Research at Columbia University in the United States found that breathing difficulties can lead to anxiety and depression, and psychological disorders can exacerbate asthma. Individuals with asthma or psychological disorders should undergo corresponding medical examinations.
6. Metabolic Syndrome
Shadow Disease: Kidney Stones
Metabolic syndrome has five symptoms: abdominal fat accumulation, high lipid levels, low "good cholesterol," high blood pressure, and abnormal glucose tolerance. A diagnosis of metabolic syndrome is made if an individual exhibits three of these symptoms. Studies have found that this condition can lead to kidney stones, with the risk increasing by 54% and 70% if two or three of the aforementioned symptoms are present.
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