What is a disease? How many types of diseases have you studied? Give examples.

Each organs of an organ system has specific functions to do. When this functioning change or disrupt it leads to a condition called disease. These changes results in some adverse effects on body’s normal functioning and the changes observed are called signs and symptoms of the disease.

Types of Diseases

Acute:

Diseases that last for only very short periods of time, are called acute diseases. Ex: common cold Chronic:

Diseases that last for a long time, even as much as a lifetime are called chronic diseases. Ex: elephantiasis. Infectious:

Diseases which are caused by microorganisms are called infectious diseases. These disease can spread from one person to another by vectors or by other means such as air, food and water. Ex: Typhoid

Non- Infectious

Diseases that are not caused by infectious agents. Their causes vary, but they are not external causes like microbes that can spread in the community. Instead, these are mostly internal, non-infectious causes. Example: High blood pressure.