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Pediatric eye diseases include refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism), lazy eye (amblyopia), and crossed eyes (strabismus).

Age spots—also called liver spots or solar lentigines—are very common, especially in adults over 50. However, younger people can develop them too, particularly with frequent sun exposure. What are age spots? Age spots are harmless areas of increased skin pigmentation caused by long-term sun exposure. They are not cancer, but they can sometimes resemble cancerous growths. While they don’t need treatment, they indicate that the skin has experienced significant sun damage. For cosmetic reasons, they can be lightened or removed. Symptoms Age spots can appear on all skin types, but they are more common in people whose skin burns easily. Unlike freckles—which often fade without sun exposure—age spots do not fade. They typically: Are flat, oval patches of darker skin Range from tan to dark brown Appear on sun-exposed areas such as the face, hands, feet, shoulders, and upper back Vary in size from freckle-like to about ½ inch (13 mm) May cluster together, making them more noticeable Prevention You can reduce the risk of developing age spots by: Using broad-spectrum sunscreen daily Wearing protective clothing Avoiding excessive sun exposure, especially during peak hours When to see a doctor Age spots themselves don’t require medical care. However, see a doctor if a spot: Is black Is growing or changing Has an irregular border Shows multiple or unusual colors Bleeds These changes can be warning signs of melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer. Any new or changing skin lesion should be checked by a healthcare professional.

What Is a Brain Aneurysm? A brain aneurysm, also called a cerebral aneurysm, is a bulge or balloon-like swelling that forms in a weakened area of an artery in the brain. Over time, pressure from blood flow can cause this weakened section of the vessel wall to expand. Brain aneurysms vary in size and risk. Many never cause symptoms, while others can rupture and become life-threatening. Types of Brain Aneurysms Unruptured Brain Aneurysm Most brain aneurysms do not rupture. Many remain undetected for years and cause no symptoms unless they grow large enough to press on nearby nerves or brain tissue. Ruptured Brain Aneurysm In a smaller number of cases, an aneurysm can rupture, leading to bleeding in the brain (hemorrhagic stroke). This is a medical emergency and can result in permanent brain damage or death. The risk of rupture is higher in women and people over 40 years of age. Symptoms of a Brain Aneurysm Symptoms of an Unruptured Brain Aneurysm Most unruptured aneurysms cause no symptoms. However, if an aneurysm enlarges and compresses nearby structures, symptoms may include: Sudden changes in vision (blurred, double vision, or vision loss) Pain above or behind one eye Dilated pupil(s) Drooping eyelid Weakness or paralysis on one side of the face Difficulty speaking Symptoms of a Ruptured Brain Aneurysm The hallmark symptom of a ruptured aneurysm is a sudden, severe headache, often described as the “worst headache of my life” (also known as a thunderclap headache). Other symptoms may include: Nausea and vomiting Sensitivity to light Neck stiffness or pain Seizures Confusion or disorientation Loss of consciousness or brief blackouts 🚨 Seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms occur. A persistent headache lasting days or weeks may also indicate a leaking aneurysm and should be urgently evaluated. What Causes a Brain Aneurysm? Brain aneurysms develop due to a weakened or defective artery wall, although the exact cause is not always known. Contributing factors may include: Degenerative changes related to aging High blood pressure Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries due to fatty deposits) Aneurysms most commonly form in large arteries at the base of the brain or at branching points where vessel walls are naturally weaker. Risk Factors for Brain Aneurysms Several factors increase the likelihood of developing a brain aneurysm: Family history (especially first-degree relatives) Genetic connective tissue disorders, such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome or Marfan syndrome Congenital conditions, including polycystic kidney disease, arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), and coarctation of the aorta High blood pressure (hypertension) Smoking Excessive alcohol consumption Drug use, particularly cocaine Severe head injury Certain infections (rare, but can cause mycotic aneurysms) Increasing age, especially over 40 Female gender Complications and Related Conditions An unruptured aneurysm can increase pressure inside the skull. If rupture occurs, bleeding disrupts normal blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain, potentially leading to: Hemorrhagic stroke Permanent brain damage Coma Death Other serious complications include: Re-bleeding, causing further brain injury Vasospasm, narrowing blood vessels and increasing stroke risk Hydrocephalus, a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid causing pressure on the brain Hyponatremia, dangerous sodium imbalance leading to brain swelling Seizures, due to electrical disturbances in the brain Can Brain Aneurysms Be Prevented? There is no guaranteed way to prevent brain aneurysms. However, the risk can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices: Quit smoking Avoid recreational drugs Control high blood pressure Limit alcohol and caffeine intake Maintain a balanced, low-salt diet Exercise regularly Maintain a healthy weight