Diseases That Start With N

Diseases are widespread medical conditions that can negatively impact the quality of life and potentially cause death. They can be infectious or non-infectious, acute or chronic, and are caused by a variety of factors ranging from lifestyle habits to environmental exposure. The symptoms of a disease can range from mild to severe and are unique depending on the illness. Effective diagnosis and management of diseases require a collaborative effort between the patient and medical practitioners, often involving careful monitoring, therapy, or surgery.

It was not an easy task to compile a comprehensive list of diseases for all letters of the alphabet. I had to meticulously search for medical terminologies, categorize each condition by the letter, and research any uncategorized ailment that started with any of the last few letters. It was a challenging but rewarding experience.

So, let’s begin exploring this list of diseases starting with N!

83 Diseases That Start With N

And here’s the list of diseases that begin with N letter.

Nystagmus

Nystagmus refers to a condition of involuntary eye movements. It can be caused by various underlying medical conditions such as neurological disorders, congenital abnormalities or acquired injuries. The movements may be vertical, horizontal, rotatory or a combination of these. Nystagmus can lead to issues with balance and coordination, blurring of vision, and difficulty in reading or driving. Management typically involves determining and addressing the underlying cause. Treatments may include glasses, medication, or even surgery in some cases.

Neurofibrillary tangles

Neurofibrillary tangles are a type of nerve cell degeneration that occurs in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease. The tangles consist of abnormal proteins that accumulate around nerve cells and cause them to dysfunction and eventually die. As a result, affected individuals tend to experience declining cognitive function, memory loss, and other neurological symptoms. The cause of neurofibrillary tangles is not well understood, and there is currently no cure for the underlying conditions.

Narcolepsy-Cataplexy

Narcolepsy-cataplexy is a sleep disorder that affects the body’s ability to regulate sleep and wake cycles. It is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden episodes of muscle weakness or paralysis, called cataplexy, and sometimes hallucinations or sleep paralysis. The condition is caused by a lack of a specific neurotransmitter in the brain called orexin. While there is no cure for narcolepsy-cataplexy, symptoms can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes such as regulating sleep schedules and avoiding caffeine and other stimulants.

Naegeli

Naegeli syndrome is a rare genetic condition that affects the skin’s pigmentation. It is characterized by hyperpigmentation, meaning increased pigmentation of the skin, and can also lead to thickening and hardening of the skin. The condition is caused by mutations in a gene called KRT14, which provides instructions for making a protein that is involved in the formation and maintenance of the skin. There is currently no cure for Naegeli syndrome, and treatment is focused on managing the symptoms.

Neuroendocrine cancer

Neuroendocrine cancer refers to a type of cancer that develops in the hormone-producing cells of the body’s neuroendocrine system. These tumors can occur in various organs of the body, such as the pancreas, lungs, or gastrointestinal tract. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, flushing, or a cough. Treatment options depend on the specific location and severity of the cancer but may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Neuraminidase deficiency

Neuraminidase deficiency is a rare genetic condition that affects the body’s ability to break down certain types of sugar molecules. This leads to abnormal accumulation of these sugars inside cells and tissues, resulting in a variety of neurological symptoms such as seizures, muscle weakness, and cognitive impairment. The condition is caused by mutations in a gene called NEU1, which provides instructions for making an enzyme that is involved in breaking down these sugar molecules. There is currently no cure for neuraminidase deficiency, and treatment is focused on managing the symptoms.

Neonatal transient jaundice

Neonatal transient jaundice is a common condition that affects many newborns and is characterized by yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes. The condition occurs when the baby’s liver is not yet fully developed and is unable to process bilirubin effectively, a substance that is generated by the breakdown of red blood cells. The treatment for neonatal transient jaundice typically involves phototherapy, which involves exposing the baby’s skin to a special type of blue light that helps break down the bilirubin.

Nelson syndrome

Nelson syndrome is a rare condition that can develop in individuals who have had their adrenal glands removed as a treatment for Cushing’s disease. The syndrome is characterized by the growth of a tumor on the pituitary gland, which can lead to an excess of hormone release. Symptoms may include weight gain, fatigue, depression, and changes in vision. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, or medication.

Neurofibromatosis-Noonan syndrome

Neurofibromatosis-Noonan syndrome is a rare genetic condition that results from mutations in multiple genes. The condition is characterized by a range of symptoms, including skin abnormalities, growth delays, heart defects, and neurological issues such as learning disabilities and seizures. The treatment for neurofibromatosis-Noonan syndrome is typically based on managing the specific symptoms that an individual may be experiencing.

Nonverbal learning disorder

Nonverbal learning disorder is a type of learning disability that affects an individual’s ability to process and understand nonverbal information such as facial expressions, gestures, and body language. People with this disorder often have difficulty with social interactions, reading maps, and interpreting visual patterns. Management typically involves a combination of educational interventions, therapy, and medication if necessary.

Neonatal infection

Neonatal infections are infections that occur in newborns during the first 28 days of life. These infections can be caused by a wide variety of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Symptoms may include fever, breathing difficulties, lethargy, and poor feeding. Treatment typically involves antibiotics and supportive care, and prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial for preventing serious complications.

NAME syndrome

NAME syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects multiple systems of the body. The condition is characterized by neonatal liver disease, abnormalities in the pancreas, and a malformation of the bile ducts. Other symptoms may include growth delays, deafness, and intellectual disability. There is currently no cure for NAME syndrome, and treatment is focused on managing the specific symptoms that an individual may be experiencing.

Neurocutaneous melanosis

Neurocutaneous melanosis is a rare condition characterized by the development of multiple pigmented skin lesions and tumors on the skin and in the brain and spinal cord. The condition is caused by mutations in a gene that is involved in the development of neural crest cells. Symptoms may include seizures, hydrocephalus, and neurological deficits. Treatment options may include surgery to remove tumors and medications to manage symptoms.

Nephrotic syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome is a condition characterized by a set of symptoms that occur when the kidneys are damaged and leak large amounts of protein into the urine. Symptoms may include swelling in the legs and feet, foamy urine, and an increased risk of infection. Nephrotic syndrome can be caused by a variety of conditions, including certain medications or immune system disorders. Treatment may include medication to reduce proteinuria, diuretics to manage swelling, and medications to manage any underlying conditions.

Neonatal herpes

Neonatal herpes is a viral infection that can occur in newborn babies, typically acquired during delivery from a mother who has genital herpes. Symptoms may include fever, seizures, lethargy, and respiratory distress. Neonatal herpes is a serious condition and can sometimes be life-threatening. Treatment typically involves antiviral medication and supportive care.

Night blindness

Night blindness is a condition characterized by difficulty seeing in dimly lit environments, such as at night or in a movie theater. The condition can be caused by a variety of factors, including a vitamin A deficiency, certain medications, or inherited genetic mutations. Treatment may involve vitamin A supplements or addressing any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the night blindness.

Nocardiosis

Nocardiosis is a rare bacterial infection that can occur when the bacterium Nocardia is inhaled or enters the body through a wound. Symptoms may include cough, fever, chest pain, and neurological issues such as confusion or seizures. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, but the condition can be difficult to treat and may require long-term therapy.

Nevus sebaceus of Jadassohn

Nevus sebaceous of Jadassohn is a benign skin condition that is present at birth. The condition is characterized by the development of a yellowish, hairless patch of skin on the head or face. While the condition is benign, it can sometimes lead to the development of other skin conditions later in life, such as skin tumors or cysts.

Neurasthenia

Neurasthenia is a condition characterized by excessive fatigue or weakness that is not relieved by rest. The condition is often associated with stress or emotional tension and may be exacerbated by physical activity. Management typically involves addressing any underlying psychological or emotional factors that may be contributing to the condition, as well as lifestyle changes such as improving sleep hygiene.

Neurosyphilis

Neurosyphilis is a complication of syphilis that affects the central nervous system. The condition can occur at any stage of syphilis and may lead to a range of neurological symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and cognitive impairment. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, but in some cases, the damage caused by neurosyphilis may be irreversible. Prevention through regular screening and early treatment of syphilis is crucial in preventing the development of neurosyphilis.

Nephropathy deafness hyperparathyroidism

A rare genetic disorder that primarily affects the kidneys and ears, causing progressive loss of kidney function and hearing impairment. Hyperparathyroidism is a condition where the parathyroid glands located in the neck produce too much parathyroid hormone.

Nut allergy

A type of food allergy that can cause severe or life-threatening reactions, such as anaphylaxis, by the immune system’s response to proteins found in certain nuts.

Noonan syndrome

A genetic disorder that affects various parts of the body, causing distinctive facial features, short stature, heart defects, bleeding disorders, and other health problems.

NMDA receptor antagonist neurotoxicity

A type of brain injury caused by prolonged exposure to certain drugs that block the NMDA receptors, such as ketamine, phencyclidine (PCP), and dextromethorphan (DXM), resulting in cognitive dysfunction, memory loss, and other neurological symptoms.

Norum disease

A rare genetic disorder that leads to the accumulation of certain lipids in the liver, spleen, and lymphatic system, causing organ damage and neurological problems.

Nevo syndrome

A rare genetic disorder that causes multiple pigmented skin lesions, developmental delay, intellectual disability, and other medical problems.

Nyctophobia

A type of anxiety disorder characterized by an intense and irrational fear of darkness or nighttime, which can interfere with daily activities and cause significant distress.

Nonvenereal endemic syphilis

Also known as bejel, is a chronic and non-sexually transmitted bacterial infection that affects the skin, bones, and other tissues, causing ulcers, deformities, and other complications.

Nezelof syndrome

An inherited immune deficiency disorder that leads to recurrent infections, low levels of antibodies, and other immune system abnormalities.

Neuraminidase beta-galactosidase deficiency

Also known as GM1 gangliosidosis, is a rare genetic disorder that affects the nervous system, causing developmental delay, seizures, muscle weakness, and other medical problems.

Niemann

Niemann-Pick disease is a group of inherited metabolic disorders that affect the body’s ability to transport and metabolize cholesterol and lipids, leading to the accumulation of these substances in various organs, such as the liver, spleen, and brain, causing organ damage and neurological problems.

Neurocysticercosis

A parasitic infection of the brain caused by the larval stage of the tapeworm Taenia solium, which can lead to seizures, headaches, neurological deficits, and other medical complications.

Neu Laxova syndrome

A rare genetic disorder that causes severe birth defects, including abnormal brain development, growth retardation, and facial abnormalities.

Non-small cell lung cancer

A type of lung cancer that accounts for about 85% of all cases, characterized by the abnormal growth of epithelial cells in the lung tissue, which can spread to other parts of the body.

Nijmegen breakage syndrome

An inherited disorder that affects DNA repair mechanisms, leading to an increased risk of cancer, immune system dysfunction, and other medical conditions.

Narcolepsy

A neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness, sudden loss of muscle tone (cataplexy), hallucinations, and disrupted nighttime sleep.

Neurofibromatosis

A group of genetic disorders that cause the growth of tumors in the nervous system, skin, and other organs, leading to various medical problems, such as hearing loss, vision problems, and developmental delays.

Neuroectodermal tumors primitive

A rare type of cancer that usually develops in childhood, originating from the embryonic cells that form the nervous system, causing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, seizures, and neurological deficits.

Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus

A rare genetic disorder that affects the kidneys’ ability to reabsorb water, causing excessive urination, extreme thirst, and other medical complications.

Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis

A group of inherited disorders that cause the abnormal accumulation of lipopigments in the body’s cells, leading to neurological problems, dementia, and other medical complications.

Neuroacanthocytosis

A group of inherited disorders that affect the structure of red blood cells, leading to the formation of spiky cells (acanthocytes) and neurological problems, such as movement disorders and cognitive decline.

Neonatal hemochromatosis

A rare and severe liver disease that affects newborn infants, leading to liver failure, iron overload, and other medical complications.

Necrotizing Fasciitis

A rare but severe bacterial infection that affects the body’s soft tissues, causing tissue death, organ failure, and, in some cases, death.

Neonatal hepatitis

A group of liver diseases that present in newborns, characterized by inflammation of the liver, jaundice, and liver dysfunction, which can lead to various medical complications.

Neisseria meningitidis

A type of bacteria that can cause meningitis, a life-threatening infection of the brain and spinal cord’s protective membranes, leading to neurological problems, such as seizures, cognitive decline, and even death.

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma

A type of cancer that affects the nasopharynx, the upper part of the throat behind the nose, causing symptoms such as sore throat, earache, facial numbness, and other medical complications.

Nephropathy familial with hyperuricemia

A genetic disorder that affects the kidneys’ ability to filter waste products, leading to hyperuricemia (high levels of uric acid in the blood) and other medical complications.

Neurofibroma

A type of tumor that originates from the cells that form the nervous system’s supporting tissues, causing symptoms such as numbness, weakness, pain, and other medical complications.

Nesidioblastosis of pancreas

A rare pancreatic disorder that is characterized by excessive insulin secretion, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and other medical complications.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

A rare but potentially life-threatening reaction to certain medications used to treat mental illness, such as antipsychotics, causing symptoms such as high fever, muscle rigidity, and other medical complications.

Nephrocalcinosis

The accumulation of calcium deposits in the kidneys can cause nephrocalcinosis, which can lead to kidney stones, kidney failure, and other complications.

N-Acetylglutamate synthase deficiency

This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body’s ability to produce urea, leading to the buildup of toxic ammonia in the blood.

Noma

Noma is a severe bacterial infection that can cause significant damage to the face, leading to tissue death, deformities, and even death.

Nephrosclerosis

This is a progressive kidney disease that is typically caused by hypertension and can lead to kidney failure.

Neoplasm

Neoplasm is another term for a tumor, which can be either benign or cancerous.

Nerve sheath neoplasm

This is a type of tumor that develops from the cells that surround nerves, and can cause a variety of neurological symptoms.

Narcissistic personality disorder

People with narcissistic personality disorder have an inflated sense of self-importance, a lack of empathy for others, and a strong need for admiration and attention.

Nephrotic syndrome ocular anomalies

This is a rare genetic disorder that can cause a range of symptoms, including kidney damage, eye abnormalities, and liver dysfunction.

Nakajo syndrome

Also known as NS, Nakajo syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by lipodystrophy and immune dysregulation.

Nasodigitoacoustic syndrome

This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the nose, fingers, and ears, leading to a range of physical abnormalities.

Nasopharyngitis

This is the medical term for the common cold, which is caused by a viral infection of the upper respiratory system.

Nicotine withdrawal

When a regular smoker suddenly stops or reduces their nicotine intake, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and cravings.

Neuroendocrine tumor

This is a type of tumor that develops from hormone-producing cells, and can occur in various parts of the body.

Northern epilepsy syndrome

This is a rare form of epilepsy that is most common in Scandinavian countries and is characterized by recurrent seizures and other neurological symptoms.

Nance

Nance-Horan syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects various parts of the body, including the eyes, teeth, and face.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma

This is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system, which is part of the immune system that helps fight infections.

Niemann-Pick disease type D

This is a rare inherited disorder that affects metabolism and can cause a range of symptoms, including neurological damage and liver problems.

Nonketotic hyperglycinemia

This is a rare genetic disorder that affects metabolism and can cause neurological damage, seizures, and other complications.

Nicolaides

Nicolaides-Baraitser syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects mental and physical development, leading to a range of symptoms.

Norrie disease

Also known as ND, Norrie disease is a rare inherited disorder that can cause blindness, hearing impairment, and other physical abnormalities.

Neuroblastoma

This is a type of cancer that develops from nerve cells and is most common in children.

Neuroepithelioma

Also known as PNET, Primitive neuroectodermal tumor is a rare type of cancer that can develop in various parts of the body.

Netherton syndrome ichthyosis

This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the skin, hair, and immune system, and can cause a range of symptoms, including skin rashes and infections.

Neurotoxicity syndromes

These are a group of disorders that are caused by exposure to toxins or chemicals that can damage the nervous system.

Nathalie syndrome

This is a rare genetic disorder that affects the growth and development of various parts of the body, leading to a range of physical and cognitive abnormalities.

Noise-induced hearing loss

This refers to hearing loss that is caused by exposure to loud noise, such as from a workplace or recreational activities.

Notalgia paresthetica

This is a condition that causes itching, burning, or tingling sensations on the back, often due to nerve damage or irritation.

Naxos disease

This is a rare inherited disorder that affects the skin, heart, and nails, often leading to a range of physical and cardiovascular symptoms.

Neurofibrosarcoma

This is a type of cancer that develops from cells in the nervous system and can occur anywhere in the body.

Wrapping Up

And that’s our list of N diseases.

My approach to creating a list of diseases that started with every alphabet was systematic and thorough. I began by studying various medical databases and cross-referencing them to ensure that each medical condition was correctly categorized and that I did not miss adding any disease that started with each alphabet.

In conclusion, diseases have been a part of human history and their impact has been grave. From communicable diseases that can be easily spread to chronic ailments that affect individuals for a long time, diseases have taken a toll on the health and well-being of individuals and communities across the world.

Hope this post on diseases beginning with N alphabet has been useful to you!