Bipolar disorder: possible causes and symptoms

The Italian Society of Neurology has released data on a number of scientific studies that would prove that resting in the afternoon has benefits for human health. Previously, a study by Northwestern University had highlighted how high temperatures encourage people to sleep more during the day. 

According to current knowledge, sleeping in the afternoon would provide greater protection against events such as heart attacks, strokes, but also heart failure. Provided that the 'siesta' lasts no longer than half an hour, however. 

If afternoon rest lasts longer than half an hour, on the other hand, the opposite effect could be achieved, favouring the deterioration of cognitive performance.

Vitiligo is considered an acquired skin pigmentation disorder, due to which hypopigmented or achromic patches that can vary in size appear on the skin.

It is estimated that vitiligo affects between 0.5 and 2% of the world's population and affects men and women indiscriminately. It mainly affects those over the age of 20, but in half of the cases it appears as early as childhood.

The causes of vitiligo, to date, are still not entirely clear. (Source: humanitas.it)

Hair loss afflicts many people all over the world. The cause is often attributed to genetics or ageing.

However, there are many other reasons which can cause hair loss and which are often completely underestimated. In this photogallery we explore some of the lesser-known factors that can affect hair health. (Source: webmd.com)

Find out how stress, diet, the use of chemical hair care products, overuse of styling devices and other factors can damage hair and decrease its density and health.

Cushing's syndrome is a clinical condition caused by elevated levels of cortisol in the blood. Cortisol is a hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands in response to stimulation by the hormone ACTH, produced by the pituitary gland.

Cortisol is a key hormone for many important functions in the body including the metabolism of sugars, proteins and fats and the regulation of blood pressure and the immune system. Cortisol is also referred to as the stress hormone.

When the body produces too much of it, it is called Cushing's syndrome. Let's find out what the possible causes and symptoms are.

Allergies have become a widespread problem in modern society, but fortunately, there are steps we can take to prevent their occurrence.

In this photo gallery, we will explore eleven valuable tips to help you protect yourself from allergies and live a healthier life, as provided by the 'Mayo Clinic'.

You will discover some of the most frequently used strategies to avoid common allergens, such as dust, pollen, dust mites and foods that often cause allergic reactions. We will also explore the role of personal hygiene, household cleaning, work environment and other factors that can contribute to allergy prevention.

The liver is one of the organs essential for the proper functioning of our body.

It is responsible for the expulsion of toxins, produces bile, aids in the digestion of assimilated food, and is responsible for the synthesis of sugars, cholesterol and triglycerides.

However, a diet high in saturated fats and large meals, as well as tobacco and alcohol abuse, puts a strain on our liver.

Let's see what are 10 foods that are harmful to the liver.

At a time when obesity has become a widespread concern, it is important to understand which eating habits can contribute to unwanted weight gain.

This photo gallery explores eight common but harmful eating behaviours that often lead to the accumulation of extra kilos. We have created this overview in which we will guide you through these insidious habits and offer practical tips for replacing them with healthier choices.

Get ready to take a closer look at these negative habits and discover how to adopt a better approach to maintaining a balanced weight and a healthy life.

Lymphoma is a disease of the lymphatic system, i.e. the set of tissues that have the function of defending the body against external agents and diseases. Specifically, Hodgkin's lymphoma can involve organs such as the lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, bone marrow and other small areas of the body, before spreading throughout the body.

The more the disease progresses, the more the body's ability to fight infection is impaired. There are many risk factors of which we are aware, but there is currently no specific prevention method, as it is considered a rare disease.

Hodgkin's lymphoma is complicated to diagnose as it is characterised by symptoms similar to those of other very common diseases, and many times patients are completely asymptomatic. As for treatment, it depends on how far the disease has progressed.

A silent heart attack is an insidious form of heart attack that often goes unnoticed, as symptoms may be mild or even absent.

In this photogallery we explore some signs that are often underestimated or attributed to other causes.

Thanks to the information provided by 'pennmedicine.org', we will gain a better understanding of the symptoms of a silent heart attack. You will discover how cold sweating, nausea, vomiting and other seemingly harmless signs could conceal a deadly danger. The hope is to raise awareness about this insidious form of heart attack, encouraging everyone to pay more attention to their body's signals.

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin disease that is usually chronic, relapsing and non-transmissible, causing pain, discomfort and sometimes even embarrassment for much of life.

The onset of psoriasis is caused by a continuous state of activation of the immune system, which is why it is called an immune-mediated disease. 

It is a multifactorial disease (i.e. with several causes), and is characterised by increased epidermal cell proliferation and manifests itself mostly in the form of erythematous-squamous plaques, localised in various parts of the body.

During the summer, spending time outdoors greatly increases the exposure of the eyes to reflective surfaces such as beaches, the sea or lawns. This requires special care to protect the eyes from the damage caused by solar radiation, just like skin in the sun. Sunglasses have been classified by the European Union as 'personal protective equipment' because they are fitted with ophthalmic lenses that perform the function of protecting the eyes from ultraviolet (UV) radiation. 

Therefore, sunglasses must meet certain safety and quality standards to ensure maximum eye protection.

Here are some tips for choosing sunglasses.

There are various types of training depending on the results you want to achieve. If you want to lose weight, or define your muscles well after a loading period, then you need to burn a large number of calories. In addition, more and more people want to keep fit but do not have enough time to workout consistently.

Therefore, it is necessary to find ways to exercise as much as possible, burning as many calories as possible in as little time as possible. Obviously, cardio exercises are the best. Running is perfect, but it puts a lot of strain on the joints and can cause even serious problems if you do not have the right equipment (for example, the correct shoes).

We propose below a series of exercises, most also possible from home without equipment, to burn lots of calories in a short time. Remember that the number of calories burned is not absolute but depends on various factors, such as duration of exercise, pace, intensity, weight, and height. In general, the more you weigh, the more calories you will burn during exercise.

The average age of onset of Parkinson's disease is estimated to be around 60 years. Although Parkinson's disease is generally considered a disease that affects older age groups, it may also affect younger people.

It is estimated that in 5% of those affected, Parkinson's disease can occur before the age of 40, and in very rare cases even earlier. Just think of the American actor Michael J. Fox, who started dealing with this disease at the age of 29.

In very young individuals, genetics can play a very significant role, at least in 60% of cases. It is speculated, in particular, that a mutation in the GBA gene may be relevant, although mutation does not necessarily mean that the disease will then present itself.