Diseases That Start With R

Diseases are complex and multifaceted conditions that can affect any part of the body, including the organs, tissues, and cells. They can be caused by microorganisms like bacteria and viruses, environmental factors such as pollution and radiation, or by genetic abnormalities. The symptoms of a disease can vary widely depending on the type of disease and its severity. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases typically involve a combination of medical expertise, laboratory tests, and imaging techniques.

When I set out to compile a detailed list of all medical conditions for each alphabet, I knew it was going to be a daunting task. My approach was to start with an extensive search of medical terminologies to ensure that each disease was categorized correctly. Then, I verified each medical term by consulting various medical journals and websites.

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

97 Diseases That Start With R

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

Renal Hypoplasia

Renal Hypoplasia is a congenital disorder in which one or both kidneys do not develop properly in the fetus, leading to decreased renal function and incomplete nephron formation. This can cause hypertension, urinary tract infections, and kidney failure. It can be caused by genetic factors or environmental factors, such as exposure to toxins or radiation during pregnancy. There is no cure for renal hypoplasia, but treatment options include medications, surgery, or kidney transplantation. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing the symptoms and preventing complications.

Rheumatoid Purpura

Rheumatoid Purpura is a rare autoimmune disorder characterized by a skin rash and joint pain. It is caused by an abnormal immune response in which the body produces antibodies that attack the small blood vessels in the skin and joints. The rash appears as purple or red spots on the skin that do not blanch when pressed. The joint pain can range from mild to severe and can be disabling. Treatment options include medications to control inflammation and pain, physical therapy, and surgery. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications such as joint deformities and organ damage.

Rubeola

Rubeola, commonly known as measles, is a highly contagious viral disease. It is transmitted through the air by coughing or sneezing and can cause fever, cough, runny nose, and a characteristic rash. Measles can be a serious illness, especially in young children, and can lead to complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, and death. There is no specific treatment for measles, but vaccination is highly effective in preventing the disease. Vaccination is recommended for all children and adults who have not been vaccinated or who have not had the disease.

Rhabdoid Tumor

Rhabdoid Tumor is a rare and aggressive cancer that can occur in various organs including the brain, kidneys, and liver. It is caused by mutations in a gene that normally suppresses tumor growth. Symptoms depend on the location and size of the tumor and may include headaches, seizures, nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Despite advances in treatment, rhabdoid tumor has a poor prognosis and requires close monitoring.

Retinoblastoma

Retinoblastoma is a rare form of cancer that begins in the retina, the nerve tissue at the back of the eye that detects light. It is caused by mutations in a gene that controls cell growth and division. Symptoms can include vision problems, eye pain, and a white or cloudy appearance in the pupil. The disease can be hereditary or occur spontaneously. Treatment options include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preserving vision and preventing the spread of the cancer.

Rambam Hasharon Syndrome

Rambam Hasharon Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder in which the immune system attacks the nervous system, leading to muscle weakness and paralysis. It is caused by mutations in a gene that regulates the immune system. Symptoms usually appear in infancy and may include difficulty breathing, feeding, and lifting the head. There is no cure for Rambam Hasharon Syndrome, but treatment options include medications to control the immune response and physical therapy to maintain muscle strength.

Retinal Degeneration

Retinal Degeneration is a group of disorders in which the cells of the retina, the nerve tissue at the back of the eye that detects light, gradually die. This can cause progressive vision loss, night blindness, and eventually complete blindness. Some forms of retinal degeneration are hereditary, while others are caused by environmental factors such as aging or exposure to light. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the disorder and may include medications, gene therapy, and visual aids.

Renal Artery Stenosis

Renal Artery Stenosis is a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys, leading to decreased renal function and high blood pressure. It can be caused by a buildup of plaque in the artery, a congenital abnormality, or a blood clot. Symptoms can include fatigue, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating. Treatment options include medications to control blood pressure, surgery, or angioplasty to widen the artery. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent complications such as kidney failure and stroke.

Rupophobia

Rupophobia is an extreme and irrational fear of dirt or contamination. It is a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder and can interfere with daily activities and relationships. Symptoms may include excessive hand-washing, avoiding public places, and constantly checking for cleanliness. Treatment options include therapy, medications, and self-help strategies such as exposure therapy and relaxation techniques.

Radiophobia

Radiophobia is an excessive and irrational fear of radiation exposure. It can be a result of exposure to radiation or misinformation about the effects of radiation. Symptoms may include anxiety, panic attacks, and avoidance behavior. Treatment options include therapy, medications, and education about the effects of radiation.

Reperfusion Injury

Reperfusion Injury is tissue damage that occurs when blood flow is restored to an area that has been deprived of oxygen, such as after a heart attack or stroke. The sudden increase in oxygen can cause inflammation and damage to the tissue, leading to further injury. Treatment options vary depending on the location and severity of the injury and may include medications, surgery, and rehabilitation.

Reifenstein Syndrome

Reifenstein Syndrome is a genetic disorder that affects the development of sexual characteristics in males. It is caused by mutations in a gene that regulates testosterone production. Symptoms can include ambiguous genitalia, infertility, and breast development. Treatment options depend on the severity of the disorder and may include surgery, hormone therapy, and psychological support.

Ramsay Hunt Paralysis Syndrome

Ramsay Hunt Paralysis Syndrome is a rare complication of shingles, a viral infection that affects the nerves. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. Symptoms can include facial paralysis, ear pain, and loss of taste. Treatment options include antiviral medications, corticosteroids, and physical therapy. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for preventing long-term complications.

Romberg Hemi-Facial Atrophy

Romberg Hemi-Facial Atrophy, also known as Parry-Romberg Syndrome, is a rare disorder that affects the skin, fat, and muscle tissue on one side of the face. It is caused by an autoimmune response or abnormal blood flow to the affected area. Symptoms can include facial asymmetry, shrinking of the tissues, and skin changes. Treatment options are limited and may include surgery, dentistry, and cosmetic procedures.

Robin Sequence and Oligodactyly

Robin Sequence and Oligodactyly is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the face and hands. It is caused by mutations in a gene that regulates craniofacial and limb development. Symptoms can include a cleft palate, a small jaw, and the absence of one or more fingers or toes. Treatment options depend on the severity of the disorder and may include surgery, physical therapy, and psychological support.

Radiation-Induced Lumbosacral Plexopathy

Radiation-Induced Lumbosacral Plexopathy is a rare complication of radiation therapy in which damage occurs to the nerves that control the legs and pelvis. Symptoms can include weakness, numbness, and pain in the legs and feet. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the damage and may include medications, physical therapy, and surgery.

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever is a bacterial infection transmitted by tick bites. It is characterized by fever, headache, muscle aches, and a distinctive spotted rash that begins on the extremities and spreads to the trunk. The disease can be severe and can lead to complications such as organ damage and death. Early diagnosis and treatment with antibiotics are crucial for preventing complications and improving outcomes.

Rickettsiosis

Rickettsiosis is a group of bacterial infections transmitted by ticks, fleas, or lice. Symptoms can include fever, rash, headache, and muscle aches. The severity of the disease depends on the type of bacteria and the individual’s immune response. Treatment options include antibiotics and supportive care. Prevention measures such as tick control and personal protective measures are important for reducing the risk of infection.

Repetitive Strain Injury

Repetitive Strain Injury is a type of cumulative trauma disorder caused by repetitive or forceful movements of the hands, arms, or shoulders. It is common among people who perform repetitive tasks such as typing, sewing, and assembly work. Symptoms can include pain, tingling, and weakness in the affected area. Treatment options include rest, physical therapy, and ergonomic modifications. Early diagnosis and treatment are important for preventing long-term disability.

Renal agenesis

Renal agenesis is a rare condition where one or both kidneys are missing at birth, and can lead to other urinary tract abnormalities.

Ringworm

Ringworm is not caused by a worm, but rather a fungal infection that appears as a circular rash on the skin.

Rickets

Rickets is a softening and weakening of bones in children, typically caused by a lack of vitamin D, calcium, or phosphorus in the diet.

Reactive attachment disorder

Reactive attachment disorder develops in children who have been neglected or abused, leading to difficulties in forming emotional attachments with others.

Revesz syndrome

Revesz syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the eyes, blood vessels, and immune system, and can lead to infections and cancer.

Rothmund

Rothmund is a rare genetic disorder that affects the skin and bones, causing rashes, growth problems, and an increased risk of cancer.

Romano

Romano is a rare inherited disorder that causes an abnormal heartbeat and can lead to sudden cardiac arrest or death.

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome

Reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome, also known as complex regional pain syndrome, causes chronic pain and inflammation in the limbs.

Reynolds syndrome

Reynolds syndrome is a rare condition that causes tissue death in the fingers and toes, often as a result of exposure to cold temperatures or other triggers.

Rosenberg

Rosenberg is a rare genetic disorder that affects the growth and development of bones, leading to short stature and skeletal abnormalities.

Rapunzel syndrome

Rapunzel syndrome is a rare condition where ingested hair forms a mass in the stomach and intestines, potentially leading to life-threatening complications.

Renal tubular acidosis

Renal tubular acidosis is a condition where the kidneys are unable to properly excrete acids, leading to a buildup in the blood and potential damage to the body.

Rhinotillexomania

Rhinotillexomania is a compulsive disorder characterized by excessive nose-picking, which can lead to infections and other complications.

Rumination syndrome

Rumination syndrome causes individuals to regurgitate and re-chew partially digested food, leading to weight loss and other digestive issues.

Retroperitoneal fibrosis

Retroperitoneal fibrosis is a rare condition where fibrous tissue grows in the retroperitoneal space, potentially causing compression of nearby organs and vessels.

Richter syndrome

Richter syndrome is a rare complication of chronic lymphocytic leukemia, where the cancer transforms into a more aggressive form called diffuse large B-cell lymphoma.

Rectal neoplasm

Rectal neoplasm refers to the growth of abnormal cells that can develop into cancer in the rectum, and can often be detected through screening tests.

Riley

Riley is a rare disorder that affects the nervous system and can lead to breathing problems and other complications.

Rotor syndrome

Rotor syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the liver and causes mild jaundice and other symptoms.

Raine syndrome

Raine syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of bones, leading to deformities and other skeletal abnormalities.

Reactive arthritis

Reactive arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs in response to an infection elsewhere in the body, often affecting the joints and eyes.

Restless legs syndrome

Restless legs syndrome causes uncomfortable sensations in the legs, especially at night, leading to an urge to move them and difficulty sleeping.

Radiation syndromes

Radiation syndromes refer to a range of health effects that can occur after exposure to high levels of ionizing radiation, including cell damage and DNA mutations.

Rombo syndrome

Rombo syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the skin and blood vessels, causing small bumps on the skin and increased risk of certain cancers.

Ramos-Arroyo syndrome

Ramos-Arroyo syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of bones and can lead to short stature and skeletal abnormalities.

Renal cancer

Renal cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the kidneys, often causing symptoms like blood in the urine, back pain, and weight loss.

Restrictive cardiomyopathy

Restrictive cardiomyopathy is a type of heart disease where the heart muscle becomes stiff and less able to fill with blood, leading to symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath.

Ribbing disease

Ribbing disease is a rare bone disorder that affects the long bones of the arms and legs, leading to thickening and narrowing of the bones.

Renal dysplasia limb defects

Renal dysplasia limb defects is a rare genetic disorder that affects the kidneys and limbs, causing underdevelopment or absence of certain bones and other abnormalities.

Rudiger syndrome

Rudiger syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the development of the eyes, nose, and brain, causing a range of physical and intellectual disabilities.

Renal rickets

This is a rare disease where the kidneys are unable to maintain normal levels of phosphorus and calcium in the blood, leading to soft and weak bones.

Regional enteritis

Also known as Crohn’s disease, this inflammatory bowel condition affects the entire gastrointestinal tract, causing abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss.

Renal calculi

These are kidney stones formed from mineral deposits and can cause severe pain, nausea, and vomiting as they travel through the urinary system.

Retinoschisis

A degenerative eye disease that causes the retina to split, leading to vision loss, blurry vision, and sensitivity to light.

Rift Valley fever

An acute viral disease that affects domestic animals and can be transmitted to humans through mosquito bites or contact with infected animals, causing flu-like symptoms.

Respiratory acidosis

This is a medical condition where the body accumulates too much carbon dioxide due to difficulty breathing, leading to fatigue, confusion, and drowsiness.

Reactive airway disease

A condition where the airways in the lungs become inflamed and narrow, causing wheezing, coughing, difficulty breathing, and chest tightness.

Reticuloendotheliosis

This is a rare viral disease that affects birds, causing tumors in the lymphoid organs and other tissues, leading to death in severe cases.

Rhabdomyosarcoma

A type of cancer that affects the skeletal muscles, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness in the affected area.

Rhabdomyolysis

A condition where muscle tissue breaks down and releases harmful substances into the bloodstream, causing muscle pain, weakness, and kidney damage in severe cases.

Rabies

A viral disease that affects the central nervous system of humans and animals, causing fever, headache, muscle weakness, hydrophobia, and eventually death if left untreated.

Retrolental fibroplasia

A condition that affects premature infants where the blood vessels in the retina grow abnormally, leading to blindness if left untreated.

Roussy

Also known as Roussy-Levy syndrome, this is a hereditary neurological disorder that affects muscle control, causing weakness, tremors, and difficulty walking.

Retrograde amnesia

A condition where an individual loses memories that were formed before a traumatic event, causing difficulty remembering events or people from the past.

Rickettsial disease

A group of bacterial infections caused by ticks, fleas, lice, or mites, causing fever, headache, rash, and other flu-like symptoms.

Rabson

Also known as Rabson-Mendenhall syndrome, this is a rare genetic disorder where the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin, causing high blood sugar levels and other complications.

Rod monochromacy

Also known as achromatopsia, this is a rare genetic disorder where individuals are unable to perceive colors and have visual acuity issues.

Renal cell carcinoma

A type of kidney cancer that begins in the cells lining the tubules, causing blood in urine, abdominal mass, and a feeling of fatigue.

Robinow syndrome

A genetic disorder that affects bone growth and development, causing skeletal abnormalities and characteristic facial features.

Rosai

Also known as Rosai-Dorfman disease, this is a rare disorder that affects the lymph nodes, causing swelling, fever, and night sweats.

Rheumatoid vasculitis

A rare complication of rheumatoid arthritis where the blood vessels become inflamed, causing skin ulcers, numbness, and tingling.

Rubinstein

Also known as Rubinstein-Taybi syndrome, this is a genetic disorder that affects development, causing intellectual disability, short stature, and distinctive facial features.

Rheumatism

A general term used to describe aches, pain, and stiffness in the bones, joints, or muscles.

Rett syndrome

A rare genetic disorder that affects brain function, causing intellectual disability, seizures, breathing problems, and difficulty walking.

Retina disorder

A broad term used to describe a variety of conditions that affect the retina, causing vision loss, difficulty seeing in low light, and other vision-related issues.

Reactive hypoglycemia

A condition where blood sugar levels drop after consuming a meal, causing symptoms such as weakness, dizziness, and confusion.

Ringed hair disease

Also known as Netherton syndrome, this is a rare genetic disorder that affects the skin, causing redness, scaling, and hair abnormalities.

Rectosigmoid neoplasm

A tumor that affects the rectum and sigmoid colon, causing abdominal pain, blood in stool, and bowel habit changes.

Rhabditida infections

A rare infection caused by the nematode Rhabditida, causing fever, abdominal pain, and other flu-like symptoms.

Refractory anemia

A type of anemia where the body is unable to produce enough red blood cells, causing fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath.

Renal glycosuria

Renal glycosuria is a rare condition in which glucose is excreted in the urine despite normal or low blood glucose levels, caused by a mutation in SLC5A2.

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis is a rare viral disease characterized by the formation of papillomas (warts) in the respiratory tract, caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).

Rheumatic fever

Rheumatic fever is an inflammatory disease that can develop as a complication of untreated streptococcal throat infection, affecting the joints, heart, skin, and brain.

Refsum disease

Refsum disease is a rare genetic disorder that impairs the breakdown of phytanic acid, leading to progressive nerve damage and vision loss.

Reflux esophagitis

Reflux esophagitis is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing inflammation, heartburn, and other symptoms.

Ruzicka Goerz Anton syndrome

Ruzicka Goerz Anton syndrome is a rare skin disease characterized by yellowish-brown plaques on the face, neck, and upper trunk, sometimes associated with joint pain and eye damage.

Renal hypertension

Renal hypertension is elevated blood pressure caused by kidney disease, narrowing of the renal arteries, or other kidney-related factors.

Roberts syndrome

Roberts syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by craniofacial abnormalities, limb defects, and developmental delays.

Rapadilino syndrome

Rapadilino syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by short stature, skeletal anomalies, cleft palate, and other developmental abnormalities.

Rickettsialpox

Rickettsialpox is a mild, self-limited disease caused by the bacterium Rickettsia akari, transmitted to humans by mites.

Rh disease

Rh disease is a hemolytic disease that occurs in newborns when the mother’s blood type is Rh-negative and the baby’s blood type is Rh-positive.

Renal osteodystrophy

Renal osteodystrophy is a bone disease that occurs in people with chronic kidney disease, characterized by weakened bones and an increased risk of fractures.

Rubella

Rubella, also known as German measles, is a contagious viral illness that causes a rash, fever, and other symptoms, and can lead to birth defects if contracted during pregnancy.

Roseola infantum

Roseola infantum is a common viral illness in young children, characterized by high fever followed by a rash.

Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and damage in the joints, often leading to chronic pain, disability, and other complications.

Retinitis pigmentosa

Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of inherited eye disorders characterized by progressive vision loss, night blindness, and tunnel vision.

Renal failure

Renal failure, also known as kidney failure, is a condition in which the kidneys lose their ability to remove waste and excess fluids from the body, leading to a range of complications.

Rod myopathy

Rod myopathy is a rare muscle disorder that affects the skeletal muscles, causing weakness, fatigue, and other symptoms.

Wrapping Up

And that’s our list of R diseases.

I approached the task of compiling a complete list of diseases that start with every alphabet with great enthusiasm and dedication. I committed myself to patiently studying and researching every possible ailment to ensure that my list was as comprehensive as possible, taking into account every medical terminology that I encountered during my research.

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 R alphabet has been useful to you!