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Internal Medicine

Internal medicine (also called general practice medicine) addresses well and sick vists for children and adults. As with a family doctor, if you have a complex medical condition, a general practice doctor may refer you to a specialist for diagnosis and treatment.

Learn more about primary care at Mount Sinai Health System

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Diseases & Conditions

Diseases & Conditions
ABO incompatibility
A, B, AB, and O are the 4 major blood types. The types are based on small substances (molecules) on the surface of the blood cells. When people who have one blood type receive blood from someone with a...

Diseases & Conditions
Achilles tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis occurs when the tendon that connects the back of your leg to your heel becomes swollen and painful near the bottom of the foot. This tendon is called the Achilles tendon. It allows you...

Diseases & Conditions
Acne
Acne is a skin condition that causes pimples or "zits. " Whiteheads, blackheads, and red, inflamed patches of skin (such as cysts) may develop.

Diseases & Conditions
Acquired platelet function defect
Acquired platelet function defects are conditions that prevent clotting elements in the blood called platelets from working as they should. The term acquired means these conditions are not present at birth...

Diseases & Conditions
Actinic keratosis
Actinic keratosis is a small, rough, raised area on your skin. Often this area has been exposed to the sun over a long period of time. Some actinic keratoses may develop into a type of skin cancer.

Diseases & Conditions
Actinomycosis
Actinomycosis is a long-term (chronic) bacterial infection that commonly affects the face and neck.

Diseases & Conditions
Acute bronchitis
Acute bronchitis is swelling and inflamed tissue in the bronchi, the main passages that carry air to the lungs. This swelling narrows the airways, which makes it harder to breathe. Other symptoms of bronchitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Acute cholecystitis
Acute cholecystitis is sudden swelling and irritation of the gallbladder. It causes severe belly pain.

Diseases & Conditions
Acute pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is sudden swelling and inflammation of the pancreas.

Diseases & Conditions
Adjustment disorder
Adjustment disorder is a group of symptoms, such as stress, feeling sad or hopeless, and physical symptoms that can occur after you go through a stressful life event. The symptoms occur because you are...

Diseases & Conditions
Agammaglobulinemia
Agammaglobulinemia is an inherited disorder in which a person has very low levels of protective immune system proteins called immunoglobulins. Immunoglobulins are a type of antibody. Low levels of these...

Diseases & Conditions
Agoraphobia
Agoraphobia is an intense fear and anxiety of being in places where it is hard to escape, or where help might not be available. Agoraphobia usually involves fear of crowds, bridges, or being outside alone...

Diseases & Conditions
Alcohol use disorder
Alcohol use disorder is when your drinking causes serious problems in your life, yet you keep drinking. You may also need more and more alcohol to feel drunk. Stopping suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms...

Diseases & Conditions
Alcohol withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal refers to symptoms that may occur when a person who has been drinking too much alcohol on a regular basis suddenly stops drinking alcohol.

Diseases & Conditions
Alcoholic ketoacidosis
Alcoholic ketoacidosis is the buildup of ketones in the blood due to alcohol use. Ketones are a type of acid that form when the body breaks down fat for energy. The condition is an acute form of metabolic...

Diseases & Conditions
Alcoholic liver disease
Alcoholic liver disease is damage to the liver and its function due to alcohol abuse. alcohol abuse

Diseases & Conditions
Allergic conjunctivitis
The conjunctiva is a clear layer of tissue lining the eyelids and covering the white of the eye. Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva becomes swollen or inflamed due to a reaction to pollen...

Diseases & Conditions
Allergic rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is a diagnosis associated with a group of symptoms affecting the nose. These symptoms occur when you breathe in something you are allergic to, such as dust, animal dander, or pollen. Symptoms...

Diseases & Conditions
Allergies
An allergy is an immune response or reaction to substances that are usually not harmful. immune response

Diseases & Conditions
Alopecia areata
Alopecia areata is a condition that causes round patches of hair loss. It can lead to total hair loss.

Diseases & Conditions
Alzheimer disease
Dementia is a loss of brain function that occurs with certain diseases. Alzheimer disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia. It affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Dementia may also be referred...

Diseases & Conditions
Amebiasis
Amebiasis is an infection of the intestines. It is caused by the microscopic parasite Entamoeba histolytica. Entamoeba histolytica

Diseases & Conditions
Amebic liver abscess
Amebic liver abscess is a collection of pus in the liver in response to an intestinal parasite called Entamoeba histolytica. Entamoeba histolytica

Diseases & Conditions
Anal fissure
An anal fissure is a small split or tear in the thin moist tissue (mucosa) lining the lower rectum (anus). mucosa

Diseases & Conditions
Anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. Different types of anemia include: Anemia due to vitamin B12 deficiencyAnemia...

Diseases & Conditions
Anemia of chronic disease
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. There are many types of anemia. Anemia Anemia of chronic disease (ACD...

Diseases & Conditions
Anorexia
Anorexia is an eating disorder that causes people to weigh less than is considered healthy for their age and height, usually by excessive weight loss. People with this disorder may have an intense fear...

Diseases & Conditions
Anthrax
Anthrax is an infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Bacillus anthracis. Infection in humans most often involves the skin, gastrointestinal tract, or lungs. Bacillus anthracis

Diseases & Conditions
Apoplexy
Apoplexy is bleeding into an organ or loss of blood flow to an organ. For example, Adrenal apoplexy -- bleeding into the adrenal glandsPituitary apoplexy -- bleeding into the pituitary gland Adrenal apoplexy...

Diseases & Conditions
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a condition in which your appendix gets inflamed. The appendix is a small pouch attached to the end of the large intestine.

Diseases & Conditions
Apraxia
Apraxia is a disorder of the brain and nervous system in which a person is unable to perform tasks or movements when asked, even though: The request or command is understoodThey are willing to perform the...

Diseases & Conditions
Arrhythmias
An arrhythmia is a disorder of the heart rate (pulse) or heart rhythm. The heart can beat too fast (tachycardia), too slow (bradycardia), or irregularly. heart rate An arrhythmia can be harmless, a sign...

Diseases & Conditions
Arterial embolism
Arterial embolism refers to a clot (embolus) that has come from another part of the body and causes a sudden interruption of blood flow to an organ or body part.

Diseases & Conditions
Arterial insufficiency
Arterial insufficiency is any condition that slows or stops the flow of blood through your arteries. Arteries are blood vessels that carry blood from the heart to other places in your body.

Diseases & Conditions
Arthritis
Arthritis is inflammation or degeneration of one or more joints. A joint is the area where 2 bones meet. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis.

Diseases & Conditions
Ascariasis
Ascariasis is an infection with the parasitic roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides. Ascaris lumbricoides

Diseases & Conditions
Ascites
Ascites is the build-up of fluid in the space between the lining of the abdomen and abdominal organs.

Diseases & Conditions
Aspergillosis
Aspergillosis is an infection or allergic response due to the aspergillus fungus. allergic response

Diseases & Conditions
Asthma
Asthma is a chronic disease that causes the airways of the lungs to swell and narrow. It leads to breathing difficulty such as wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and coughing.

Diseases & Conditions
Asymptomatic HIV infection
Asymptomatic HIV infection is the second stage of HIV/AIDS. During this stage, there are no symptoms of HIV infection. This stage is also called chronic HIV infection or clinical latency. HIV/AIDS During...

Diseases & Conditions
Atherosclerosis
Atherosclerosis, sometimes called "hardening of the arteries," occurs when fat, cholesterol, and other substances build up in the walls of arteries. These deposits are called plaques. Over time, these plaques...

Diseases & Conditions
Athlete's foot
Athlete's foot is an infection of the feet caused by fungus. The medical term is tinea pedis or ringworm of the foot.

Diseases & Conditions
Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a long-term (chronic) skin disorder that involves scaly and itchy rashes. It is a type of eczema. Other forms of eczema include: Contact dermatitisDyshidrotic eczemaNummular eczemaSeborrheic...

Diseases & Conditions
Atypical pneumonia
Pneumonia is inflamed or swollen lung tissue due to infection with a germ. With atypical pneumonia, the infection is caused by different bacteria than the more common ones that cause pneumonia. Atypical...

Diseases & Conditions
Autoerythrocyte sensitivity
Autoerythrocyte sensitivity means your body is sensitive to its own red blood cells (erythrocytes). This generally results in the destruction of red blood cells.

Diseases & Conditions
Autoimmune disorders
An autoimmune disorder occurs when the body's immune system attacks and destroys healthy body tissue by mistake. There are more than 80 autoimmune disorders. the body's immune system

Diseases & Conditions
Avian influenza
Avian influenza A viruses cause the flu infection in birds. The viruses that cause the disease in birds can change (mutate) so it can spread to humans. flu

Diseases & Conditions
Bacterial gastroenteritis
Bacterial gastroenteritis occurs when there is an infection of your stomach and intestines. This is due to bacteria.

Diseases & Conditions
Basal cell skin cancer
Basal cell cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Most skin cancers are basal cell cancer. Other common types of skin cancer are: Squamous cell cancerMelanoma Squamous cell cancer...

Diseases & Conditions
Bell palsy
Bell palsy is a disorder of the nerve that controls movement of the muscles in the face. This nerve is called the facial or seventh cranial nerve. Damage to this nerve causes weakness or paralysis of these...

Diseases & Conditions
Benign positional vertigo
Benign positional vertigo is the most common type of vertigo. Vertigo is the feeling that you are spinning or that everything is spinning around you. It may occur when you move your head in a certain position...

Diseases & Conditions
Beriberi
Beriberi is a disease in which the body does not have enough thiamine (vitamin B1). thiamine

Diseases & Conditions
Bile duct obstruction
Bile duct obstruction is a blockage in the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine.

Diseases & Conditions
Bile duct stricture
A bile duct stricture is an abnormal narrowing, most often of the common bile duct. This is a tube that moves bile from the liver to the small intestine. Bile is a substance that helps with digestion. bile

Diseases & Conditions
Birthmarks - pigmented
A birthmark is a skin marking that is present at birth. Birthmarks include cafe-au-lait spots, moles, and Mongolian spots. Birthmarks can be red or other colors. red

Diseases & Conditions
Bladder stones
Bladder stones are hard buildups of minerals. These form in the urinary bladder.

Diseases & Conditions
Blastomycosis
Blastomycosis is an infection caused by breathing in the Blastomyces dermatitidis fungus. The fungus is found in decaying wood and soil. Blastomyces dermatitidis

Diseases & Conditions
Bleeding disorders
Bleeding disorders are a group of conditions in which there is a problem with the body's blood clotting process. These disorders can lead to heavy and prolonged bleeding after an injury or surgery. Bleeding...

Diseases & Conditions
Blood clots
Blood clots are clumps that occur when blood hardens from a liquid to a solid. A blood clot that forms inside one of your veins or arteries is called a thrombus. A thrombus may also form in your heart....

Diseases & Conditions
Body lice
Body lice are tiny insects (scientific name is Pediculus humanus corporis) that are spread through close contact with other people. Pediculus humanus corporis Two other types of lice are: Head licePubic...

Diseases & Conditions
Boils
A boil is an infection that affects groups of hair follicles and nearby skin tissue. Related conditions include folliculitis, an inflammation of one or more hair follicles, and carbunculosis, a skin infection...

Diseases & Conditions
Botulism
Botulism is a rare but serious illness caused by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. The bacteria may enter the body through wounds or by eating improperly canned or preserved food. Clostridium botulinum

Diseases & Conditions
Brain abscess
A brain abscess is a collection of pus, immune cells, and other material in the brain, caused by a bacterial or fungal infection.

Diseases & Conditions
Breast infection
A breast infection is an infection in the tissue of the breast.

Diseases & Conditions
Brucellosis
Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that occurs from contact with animals carrying brucella bacteria.

Diseases & Conditions
Bulimia
Bulimia is an eating disorder in which a person has regular episodes of eating a very large amount of food (bingeing) during which the person feels a loss of control over their eating. The person then uses...

Diseases & Conditions
Bullous pemphigoid
Bullous pemphigoid is a skin disorder characterized by blisters. blisters

Diseases & Conditions
Bunions
A bunion forms when your big toe points outward toward your second toe. This causes a bump to appear on the inside edge of your toe.

Diseases & Conditions
Bursitis
Bursitis is the swelling and irritation of a bursa. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between muscles, tendons, and bones.

Diseases & Conditions
CMV pneumonia
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) pneumonia is a viral infection of the lungs that can occur in people who have a suppressed immune system.

Diseases & Conditions
CMV retinitis
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis is a viral infection of the retina of the eye resulting in inflammation.

Diseases & Conditions
Campylobacter infection
Campylobacter infection occurs in the small intestine from bacteria called Campylobacter jejuni. It is a type of food poisoning. Campylobacter jejuni

Diseases & Conditions
Cancer
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Cancerous cells are also called malignant cells.

Diseases & Conditions
Canker sore
A canker sore is a painful, open sore in the mouth. Canker sores are white or yellow and surrounded by a bright red area. They are not cancerous. A canker sore is not the same as a fever blister (cold sore...

Diseases & Conditions
Carbuncle
A carbuncle is a skin infection that often involves a group of hair follicles. The infected material forms a lump, which occurs deep in the skin and often contains pus. When a person has many carbuncles...

Diseases & Conditions
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which there is excessive pressure on the median nerve at the wrist. This is the nerve that allows feeling and movement to parts of the hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome...

Diseases & Conditions
Cat-scratch disease
Cat-scratch disease is an infection with bartonella bacteria. It is transmitted by cat scratches, cat bites, or flea bites.

Diseases & Conditions
Cavernous sinus thrombosis
Cavernous sinus thrombosis is a blood clot in an area at the base of the brain. blood clot

Diseases & Conditions
Celiac disease – sprue
Celiac disease is an autoimmune condition that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage comes from a reaction to eating gluten. This is a substance that is found in wheat, rye, barley, and...

Diseases & Conditions
Cellulitis
Cellulitis is a common skin infection caused by bacteria. It affects the middle layer of the skin (dermis) and the tissues below. Sometimes, muscle below the skin can be affected.

Diseases & Conditions
Cervical spondylosis
Cervical spondylosis is a disorder in which there is wear on the cartilage (disks) and bones of the neck (cervical vertebrae). It is a common cause of chronic neck pain.

Diseases & Conditions
Chagas disease
Chagas disease is an illness caused by tiny parasites and spread by insects. The disease is common in South and Central America.

Diseases & Conditions
Chalazion
A chalazion is a small bump in the eyelid caused by a blockage of a tiny oil gland.

Diseases & Conditions
Charley horse
A charley horse is the common name for a muscle spasm or cramp. Muscle spasms can occur in any muscle in the body, but often happen in the leg. When a muscle is in spasm, it contracts without your control...

Diseases & Conditions
Cherry angioma
A cherry angioma is a noncancerous (benign) skin growth made up of blood vessels.

Diseases & Conditions
Chlamydia infections in women
Chlamydia is an infection that can be passed from one person to another through sexual contact. This type of infection is known as sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Diseases & Conditions
Chronic cholecystitis
Chronic cholecystitis is swelling and irritation of the gallbladder that continues over time. The gallbladder is a sac located under the liver. It stores bile that is made in the liver. Bile helps with...

Diseases & Conditions
Chronic granulomatous disease
Chronic granulomatous disease (CGD) is an inherited disorder in which certain immune system cells do not function properly. This leads to repeated and severe infections.

Diseases & Conditions
Chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease is the slow loss of kidney function over time. The main job of the kidneys is to remove wastes and excess water from the body.

Diseases & Conditions
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung disease. Having COPD makes it hard to breathe. There are two main forms of COPD: Chronic bronchitis, which involves a long-term cough with mucusEmphysema...

Diseases & Conditions
Chronic thyroiditis (Hashimoto disease)
Chronic thyroiditis is caused by a reaction of the immune system against the thyroid gland. It often results in reduced thyroid function (hypothyroidism). hypothyroidism The disorder is also called Hashimoto...

Diseases & Conditions
Chylomicronemia syndrome
Chylomicronemia syndrome is a disorder in which the body does not break down fats (lipids) correctly. This causes fat particles called chylomicrons to build up in the blood. The disorder is passed down...

Diseases & Conditions
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver and poor liver function. It is the last stage of chronic liver disease.

Diseases & Conditions
Cluster headache
A cluster headache is an uncommon type of headache. It is one-sided head pain that may involve tearing of the eyes, a droopy eyelid, and a stuffy nose. Attacks last from 15 minutes to 3 hours, occur daily...

Diseases & Conditions
Cocaine intoxication
Cocaine is an illegal stimulant drug that affects your central nervous system. Cocaine comes from the coca plant. When used, cocaine causes the brain to release higher than normal amounts of some chemicals...

Diseases & Conditions
Cocaine withdrawal
Cocaine withdrawal occurs when someone who has used a lot of cocaine cuts down or quits taking the drug. Symptoms of withdrawal can occur even if the user is not completely off cocaine and still has some...

Diseases & Conditions
Colitis
Colitis is swelling (inflammation) of the large intestine (colon).

Diseases & Conditions
Colorado tick fever
Colorado tick fever (CTF) is a viral infection. It is spread by the bite of the Rocky Mountain wood tick (Dermacentor andersoni). Dermacentor andersoni

Diseases & Conditions
Colorectal polyps
A colorectal polyp is a growth on the lining of the colon or rectum.

Diseases & Conditions
Common cold
The common cold most often causes a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. You may also have a sore throat, cough, headache, or other symptoms.

Diseases & Conditions
Community-acquired pneumonia in adults
Pneumonia is a breathing (respiratory) condition in which there is an infection of the lung. This article covers community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). This type of pneumonia is found in people who have not...

Diseases & Conditions
Complex regional pain syndrome
Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a long-term (chronic) pain condition that can affect any area of the body, but often affects an arm or a leg.

Diseases & Conditions
Compression fractures of the back
Compression fractures of the back are broken vertebrae. Vertebrae are the bones of the spine.

Diseases & Conditions
Concussion
A concussion may occur when the head hits an object, or a moving object strikes the head. A concussion is a less severe type of brain injury. It may also be called a traumatic brain injury. A concussion...

Diseases & Conditions
Congenital antithrombin III deficiency
Congenital antithrombin III deficiency is a genetic disorder that causes the blood to clot more than normal. genetic

Diseases & Conditions
Congenital fibrinogen deficiency
Congenital fibrinogen deficiency is a very rare, inherited blood disorder in which the blood does not clot normally. It affects a protein called fibrinogen. This protein is needed for the blood to clot...

Diseases & Conditions
Congenital platelet function defects
Congenital platelet function defects are conditions that prevent clotting elements in the blood, called platelets, from working as they should. Platelets help the blood clot. Congenital means present from...

Diseases & Conditions
Congenital protein C or S deficiency
Congenital protein C or S deficiency is a lack of proteins C or S in the fluid part of the blood. The proteins are natural substances that help prevent blood clots.

Diseases & Conditions
Conjunctivitis or pink eye
The conjunctiva is a clear layer of tissue lining the eyelids and covering the white of the eye. Conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva becomes swollen or inflamed. conjunctiva This swelling can be...

Diseases & Conditions
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a condition in which the skin becomes red, sore, or inflamed after direct contact with a substance.

Diseases & Conditions
Corneal injury
Corneal injury is a wound to the part of the eye known as the cornea. The cornea is the crystal clear (transparent) tissue that covers the front of the eye. It works with the lens of the eye to focus images...

Diseases & Conditions
Corneal ulcers and infections
The cornea is the clear tissue at the front of the eye. A corneal ulcer is an open sore in the outer layer of the cornea. It is often caused by infection. At first, a corneal ulcer may seem like conjunctivitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Corns and calluses
Corns and calluses are thick layers of skin. They are caused by repeated pressure or friction at the spot where the corn or callus develops.

Diseases & Conditions
Coronavirus
Coronaviruses are a family of viruses. Infection with these viruses generally causes mild to moderate respiratory illnesses, such as the common cold. Some coronaviruses cause severe illness that can lead...

Diseases & Conditions
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness that causes fever, coughing, and shortness of breath, but many other symptoms can occur. COVID-19 is caused by a highly infectious virus. Most...

Diseases & Conditions
Costochondritis
All but your lowest 2 ribs are connected to your breastbone by cartilage. This cartilage can become inflamed and cause pain. This condition is called costochondritis. It is a common cause of chest pain...

Diseases & Conditions
Crohn disease
Crohn disease is a disease where parts of the digestive tract become inflamed. It most often involves the lower end of the small intestine and the beginning of the large intestine.It may also occur in any...

Diseases & Conditions
Cryptococcosis
Cryptococcosis is infection with the fungi Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii. Cryptococcus neoformans Cryptococcus gattii

Diseases & Conditions
Cryptosporidium enteritis
Cryptosporidium enteritis is an infection of the small intestine that causes diarrhea. The parasite cryptosporidium causes this infection.

Diseases & Conditions
Cutaneous skin tag
A cutaneous skin tag is a common skin growth. Most of the time, it is harmless.

Diseases & Conditions
Cyclothymic disorder
Cyclothymic disorder is a mental disorder. It is a mild form of bipolar disorder (manic depressive illness), in which a person has mood swings over a period of years that go from mild depression to emotional...

Diseases & Conditions
Cysticercosis
Cysticercosis is an infection by a parasite called Taenia solium (T solium). It is a pork tapeworm that creates cysts in different areas in the body. Taenia solium T solium

Diseases & Conditions
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a disease caused by a type of herpes virus.

Diseases & Conditions
Deep vein thrombosis
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a condition that occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein deep inside a part of the body. DVT mainly affects the large veins in the lower leg and thigh, but can occur in other...

Diseases & Conditions
Delirium
Delirium is sudden severe confusion due to rapid changes in brain function that occur with physical or mental illness. confusion

Diseases & Conditions
Delirium tremens
Delirium tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal. It involves sudden and severe mental or nervous system changes. alcohol withdrawal

Diseases & Conditions
Dementia
Dementia is a loss of brain function that occurs with certain diseases. It affects one or more brain functions such as memory, thinking, language, judgment, or behavior. Dementia may also be referred to...

Diseases & Conditions
Dengue fever
Dengue fever is a virus-caused disease that is spread by mosquitoes. Dengue in its mild form causes fever and a rash and lasts about a week. Severe dengue can cause shock, internal bleeding, and death....

Diseases & Conditions
Depression in older adults
Depression is a mental health condition. It is a mood disorder in which feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration interfere with daily life for weeks or longer. Depression in older adults is a widespread...

Diseases & Conditions
Dermal melanocytosis
Dermal melanocytosis is the name of a kind of birthmark that is flat and blue, or blue-gray in color. They appear at birth or in the first few weeks of life. Dermal melanocytosis was formerly called Mongolian...

Diseases & Conditions
Dermatitis herpetiformis
Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a very itchy rash consisting of bumps and blisters. The rash is chronic (long-term). blisters

Diseases & Conditions
Diabetes
Diabetes is a long-term (chronic) disease in which the body cannot regulate the amount of sugar in the blood.

Diseases & Conditions
Diabetes and nerve damage
Nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes is called diabetic neuropathy. This condition is a complication of diabetes. diabetes

Diseases & Conditions
Diabetic hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome
Diabetic hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome (HHS) is a complication of type 2 diabetes. It involves extremely high blood sugar (glucose) level without the presence of ketones. type 2 diabetes

Diseases & Conditions
Diabetic ketoacidosis
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening problem that affects people with diabetes. It occurs when the body starts breaking down fat at a rate that is much too fast. The liver processes the fat...

Diseases & Conditions
Diaper rash
Diaper rash is a skin problem that develops in the area under an infant's diaper.

Diseases & Conditions
Dificultad con la deglución
Es la sensación de que el alimento sólido o líquido se atora en la garganta o en cualquier punto antes de que este ingrese al estómago. Este problema también se denomina disfagia.

Diseases & Conditions
Diphtheria
Diphtheria is an acute infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. acute Corynebacterium diphtheriae

Diseases & Conditions
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)
Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a serious disorder in which the proteins that control blood clotting become overactive.

Diseases & Conditions
Disseminated tuberculosis
Disseminated tuberculosis is a mycobacterial infection in which mycobacteria have spread from the lungs to other parts of the body through the blood or lymph system. lymph system

Diseases & Conditions
Diverticulitis
Diverticula are small, bulging sacs or pouches that form on the inner wall of the intestine. Diverticulitis occurs when these pouches become inflamed or infected. Most often, these pouches are in the lower...

Diseases & Conditions
Diverticulosis
Diverticulosis occurs when small, bulging sacs or pouches form on the inner wall of the intestine. These sacs are called diverticula. Most often, these pouches form in the large intestine (colon). They...

Diseases & Conditions
Drug-induced diarrhea
Drug-induced diarrhea is loose, watery stools that occurs when you take certain medicines. diarrhea

Diseases & Conditions
Drug-induced immune hemolytic anemia
Drug-induced immune hemolytic anemia is a blood disorder that occurs when a medicine triggers the body's defense (immune) system to attack its own red blood cells. This causes red blood cells to break down...

Diseases & Conditions
Drug-induced thrombocytopenia
Thrombocytopenia is any disorder in which there are not enough platelets. Platelets are elements in the blood that help the blood clot. A low platelet count makes bleeding more likely. Thrombocytopenia...

Diseases & Conditions
Dry eye syndrome
You need tears to moisten the eyes and to wash away particles that have gotten into your eyes. A healthy tear film on the eye is necessary for good vision. Dry eyes develop when the eye is unable to maintain...

Diseases & Conditions
Dry skin
Dry skin occurs when your skin loses too much water and oil. Dry skin is common and can affect anyone at any age. The medical term for dry skin is xerosis.

Diseases & Conditions
Dupuytren contracture
Dupuytren contracture is a painless thickening and tightening (contracture) of tissue beneath the skin on the palm and fingers.

Diseases & Conditions
Dysarthria
Dysarthria is a condition in which you have difficulty saying words because of problems with the muscles that help you talk.

Diseases & Conditions
E coli enteritis
E coli enteritis is swelling (inflammation) of the small intestine from Escherichia coli (E coli) bacteria. It is the most common cause of travelers' diarrhea. E coli Escherichia coli E coli

Diseases & Conditions
ECHO virus
Enteric cytopathic human orphan (ECHO) viruses are a group of viruses that can lead to infections in different parts of the body, and skin rashes.

Diseases & Conditions
Ear infection - acute
Suspected ear infections are one of the most common reasons parents take their children to the health care provider. The most common type of ear infection is called otitis media. It is caused by swelling...

Diseases & Conditions
Ear infection - chronic
Chronic ear infection is fluid, swelling, or an infection behind the eardrum that does not go away or keeps coming back. It causes long-term or permanent damage to the ear. It often involves a hole in the...

Diseases & Conditions
Ear wax
The ear canal is lined with hair follicles. The ear canal also has glands that produce a waxy oil called cerumen. The wax will most often make its way to the opening of the ear. There it will fall out or...

Diseases & Conditions
Ebola virus disease
Ebola is a severe and often deadly disease caused by a virus. Symptoms include fever, diarrhea, vomiting, bleeding, and often, death. Ebola can occur in humans and other primates (gorillas, monkeys, and...

Diseases & Conditions
Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside the womb (uterus).

Diseases & Conditions
Ehrlichiosis
Ehrlichiosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by the bite of a tick.

Diseases & Conditions
Endometriosis
Endometriosis occurs when cells from the lining of your womb (uterus) grow in other areas of your body. This can cause pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, vaginal bleeding between periods, and problems getting...

Diseases & Conditions
Endometritis
Endometritis is an inflammation or irritation of the lining of the uterus (the endometrium). It is not the same as endometriosis. endometriosis

Diseases & Conditions
Enlarged prostate
The prostate is a gland that produces some of the fluid that carries sperm during ejaculation. The prostate gland surrounds the urethra, the tube through which urine passes out of the body. An enlarged...

Diseases & Conditions
Enteritis
Enteritis is inflammation of the small intestine.

Diseases & Conditions
Epididymitis
Epididymitis is swelling (inflammation) of the tube that connects the testicle with the vas deferens. The tube is called the epididymis.

Diseases & Conditions
Epiglottitis
Epiglottitis is inflammation of the epiglottis. This is the tissue that covers the trachea (windpipe). Epiglottitis can be a life-threatening disease.

Diseases & Conditions
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a brain disorder in which a person has repeated seizures over time. Seizures are episodes of uncontrolled and abnormal electrical activity of brain cells that may cause changes in attention...

Diseases & Conditions
Epstein pearls
Epstein pearls are whitish-yellow cysts. These form on the gums and roof of the mouth in a newborn baby. newborn baby Milia are a similar type of skin problem in babies. Milia

Diseases & Conditions
Erection problems
An erection problem occurs when a man cannot get or keep an erection that is firm enough for intercourse. You may not be able to get an erection at all. Or, you may lose the erection during intercourse...

Diseases & Conditions
Erysipelas
Erysipelas is a type of skin infection. It affects the outermost layer of the skin and the local lymph nodes.

Diseases & Conditions
Essential thrombocythemia
Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is a condition in which the bone marrow produces too many platelets. Platelets are particles in the blood that aid in blood clotting.

Diseases & Conditions
Essential tremor
Essential tremor (ET) is a type of involuntary shaking movement. It has no identified cause. Involuntary means you shake without trying to do so and are not able to stop the shaking at will.

Diseases & Conditions
Eyelid bump
Most bumps on the eyelid are styes. A stye is an inflamed oil gland on the edge of your eyelid, where the eyelash meets the lid. It appears as a red, swollen bump that looks like a pimple. It is often tender...

Diseases & Conditions
Eyelid twitch
An eyelid twitch is a general term for spasms of the eyelid muscles. These spasms happen without your control. The eyelid may repeatedly close (or nearly close) and reopen. This article discusses eyelid...

Diseases & Conditions
Factor V deficiency
Factor V deficiency is a bleeding disorder that is passed down through families. It affects the ability of the blood to clot. bleeding disorder

Diseases & Conditions
Factor VII deficiency
Factor VII (seven) deficiency is a disorder caused by a lack of a protein called factor VII in the blood. It leads to problems with blood clotting (coagulation).

Diseases & Conditions
Factor X deficiency
Factor X (ten) deficiency is a disorder caused by a lack of a protein called factor X in the blood. It leads to problems with blood clotting (coagulation).

Diseases & Conditions
Factor XII (Hageman factor) deficiency
Factor XII deficiency is an inherited disorder that affects a protein (factor XII) involved in blood clotting.

Diseases & Conditions
Familial lipoprotein lipase deficiency
Familial lipoprotein lipase deficiency is a group of rare genetic disorders in which a person lacks a protein needed to break down fat molecules. The disorder causes a large amount of fat to build up in...

Diseases & Conditions
Fanconi anemia
Fanconi anemia is a rare disease passed down through families (inherited) that mainly affects the bone marrow. It results in decreased production of all types of blood cells. This is the most common inherited...

Diseases & Conditions
Fanconi syndrome
Fanconi syndrome is a disorder of the kidney tubes in which certain substances normally absorbed into the bloodstream by the kidneys are released into the urine instead.

Diseases & Conditions
Farsightedness
Farsightedness is having a harder time seeing objects that are close than things that are far away. The term is often used to describe the need for reading glasses as you get older. However, the correct...

Diseases & Conditions
Fecal impaction
A fecal impaction is a large lump of dry, hard stool that stays stuck in the rectum. It is most often seen in people who are constipated for a long time.

Diseases & Conditions
Female pattern baldness
Female pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss in women. hair loss

Diseases & Conditions
Femoral hernia
A hernia occurs when the contents of the abdomen push through a weak point or tear in the muscle wall of the belly. This layer of muscle holds the abdominal organs in place. hernia A femoral hernia is a...

Diseases & Conditions
Fibrinolysis - primary or secondary
Fibrinolysis is a normal body process. It prevents blood clots that occur naturally from growing and causing problems. Primary fibrinolysis refers to the normal breakdown of clots. Secondary fibrinolysis...

Diseases & Conditions
Fibroadenoma of the breast
Fibroadenoma of the breast is a benign tumor. Benign tumor means it is not a cancer.

Diseases & Conditions
Fibrocystic breasts
Fibrocystic breasts are painful, lumpy breasts. Formerly called fibrocystic breast disease, this common condition is, in fact, not a disease. Many women experience these normal breast changes, usually around...

Diseases & Conditions
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a condition in which a person has long-term pain that is spread throughout their body. The pain is most often accompanied by fatigue, sleep problems, difficulty concentrating, headaches...

Diseases & Conditions
Fish tapeworm infection
Fish tapeworm infection is an intestinal infection with a parasite found in fish.

Diseases & Conditions
Fleas
Fleas are small insects that feed on the blood of humans, dogs, cats, and other warm-blooded animals.

Diseases & Conditions
Flu
The flu (influenza) is a viral respiratory illness that causes fever, chills, runny nose, body aches, and cough. It spreads easily from person to person. The flu can cause moderate to severe symptoms. Most...

Diseases & Conditions
Folate deficiency
Folate deficiency means you have a lower-than-normal amount of folic acid, a type of vitamin B, in your blood. folic acid

Diseases & Conditions
Folate-deficiency anemia
Folate-deficiency anemia is a decrease in red blood cells (anemia) due to a lack of folate. Folate is a type of B vitamin. It is also called folic acid. Anemia is a condition in which the body does not...

Diseases & Conditions
Folliculitis
Folliculitis is inflammation of one or more hair follicles. It can occur anywhere on the skin.

Diseases & Conditions
Food allergy
A food allergy is a type of immune response triggered by eggs, peanuts, milk, shellfish or some other specific food.

Diseases & Conditions
Food poisoning
Food poisoning occurs when you swallow food or water that contains bacteria, parasites, viruses, or the toxins made by these germs. Most cases are caused by common bacteria such as staphylococcus or E coli...

Diseases & Conditions
Frozen shoulder
Frozen shoulder is a condition in which the shoulder is painful and loses motion because of inflammation.

Diseases & Conditions
Fungal arthritis
Fungal arthritis is swelling and irritation (inflammation) of a joint by a fungal infection. It is also called mycotic arthritis.

Diseases & Conditions
Fungal nail infection
Fungal nail infection is a fungus growing in and around your fingernail or toenail.

Diseases & Conditions
Gallstones
Gallstones are hard deposits that form inside the gallbladder. These may be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball.

Diseases & Conditions
Gas gangrene
Gas gangrene is a potentially deadly form of tissue death (gangrene). gangrene

Diseases & Conditions
Gastritis
Gastritis occurs when the lining of the stomach becomes inflamed or swollen. Gastritis may last for only a short time (acute gastritis) or it may linger for months to years (chronic gastritis).

Diseases & Conditions
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which the stomach contents leak backward from the stomach into the esophagus (food pipe). Food travels from your mouth to the stomach through your...

Diseases & Conditions
Gastroparesis
Gastroparesis is a condition that reduces the ability of the stomach to empty its contents. It does not involve a blockage (obstruction).

Diseases & Conditions
Generalized anxiety disorder
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental disorder in which a person is often worried or anxious about many things and finds it hard to control this anxiety.

Diseases & Conditions
Genital herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This article focuses on HSV type 2 infection.

Diseases & Conditions
Genital warts
Genital warts are soft growths on the skin and mucous membranes of the genitals. They may be found on the penis, vulva, urethra, vagina, cervix, and around and in the anus. vulva Genital warts are spread...

Diseases & Conditions
Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes is high blood sugar (glucose) that starts or is first diagnosed during pregnancy.

Diseases & Conditions
Giant cell arteritis
Giant cell arteritis (GCA) is inflammation and damage to the blood vessels that supply blood to the head, neck, upper body and arms. It is also called temporal arteritis.

Diseases & Conditions
Giant congenital nevus
A congenital pigmented or melanocytic nevus is a dark-colored, often hairy, patch of skin. It is present at birth or appears in the first year of life. A giant congenital nevus is smaller in infants and...

Diseases & Conditions
Giardia infection
Giardia, or giardiasis, is a parasitic infection of the small intestine. A tiny parasite called Giardia lamblia causes it. Giardia lamblia

Diseases & Conditions
Glanzmann thrombasthenia
Glanzmann thrombasthenia is a rare disorder of blood platelets. Platelets are particles in the blood that aid in blood clotting.

Diseases & Conditions
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is a condition in which red blood cells break down when the body is exposed to certain drugs or the stress of infection. It is hereditary, which means...

Diseases & Conditions
Gonococcal arthritis
Gonococcal arthritis is inflammation of a joint due to a gonorrhea infection. Gonococcal arthritis is a type of septic arthritis. This is inflammation of a joint due to a bacterial infection. septic arthritis

Diseases & Conditions
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis. It occurs when uric acid builds up in the blood and causes inflammation in the joints. uric acid Acute gout is a painful condition that often affects only one joint. Chronic...

Diseases & Conditions
Gram-negative meningitis
Meningitis is present when the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord become swollen and inflamed. This covering is called the meninges. Meningitis Bacteria are one type of germ that may cause meningitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Granuloma annulare
Granuloma annulare (GA) is a long-term (chronic) skin disease consisting of a rash with reddish bumps arranged in a circle or ring. chronic

Diseases & Conditions
Guttate psoriasis
Guttate psoriasis is a skin condition in which small, red, scaly, teardrop-shaped spots with silvery scale appear on the arms, legs, and middle of the body. Gutta means "drop" in Latin.

Diseases & Conditions
H influenzae meningitis
Meningitis is an infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. This covering is called the meninges. Meningitis Bacteria are one type of germ that can cause meningitis. Haemophilus influenzae...

Diseases & Conditions
H1N1 influenza (Swine flu)
The H1N1 virus (swine flu) is an infection of the nose, throat, and lungs. It is caused by the H1N1 influenza virus.

Diseases & Conditions
HIV/AIDS
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the virus that causes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). When a person becomes infected with HIV, the virus attacks and weakens the immune system. As the immune...

Diseases & Conditions
HIV/AIDS in pregnant women and infants
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is the virus that causes AIDS. When a person becomes infected with HIV, the virus attacks and weakens the immune system. As the immune system weakens, the person is at...

Diseases & Conditions
Hammer toe
Hammer toe is a deformity of the toe. The end of the toe is bent downward.

Diseases & Conditions
Hand-foot-mouth disease
Hand-foot-mouth disease is a common viral infection that most often begins in the throat.

Diseases & Conditions
Hantavirus
Hantavirus is a life-threatening viral infection spread to humans by rodents.

Diseases & Conditions
Head lice
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the skin covering the top of your head (scalp). Head lice may also be found in eyebrows and eyelashes. Lice spread by close contact with other people.

Diseases & Conditions
Heart block
Heart block is a problem in the electrical signals in the heart. Normally, the heart beat starts in an area in the top chambers of the heart (atria). This area is the heart's pacemaker. The electrical signals...

Diseases & Conditions
Heart failure
Heart failure is a condition in which the heart is no longer able to pump oxygen-rich blood to the rest of the body efficiently. This causes symptoms to occur throughout the body.

Diseases & Conditions
Hemangioma
A hemangioma is an abnormal buildup of blood vessels in the skin or internal organs.

Diseases & Conditions
Hemochromatosis
Hemochromatosis is a condition in which there is too much iron in the body. It is also called iron overload.

Diseases & Conditions
Hemoglobin C disease
Hemoglobin C disease is a blood disorder passed down through families. It leads to a type of anemia, which occurs when red blood cells break down earlier than normal. anemia

Diseases & Conditions
Hemoglobinopathy
Hemoglobinopathy is a group of disorders in which there is abnormal production or structure of the hemoglobin molecule. It is passed down through families (inherited). hemoglobin This group of disorders...

Diseases & Conditions
Hemolytic anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. Anemia Normally, red blood cells last for about 120 days in the body...

Diseases & Conditions
Hemolytic anemia caused by chemicals and toxins
Hemolytic anemia caused by chemicals and toxins is a lack of red blood cells that occurs when red blood cells are excessively damaged by certain chemicals or toxins. Hemolytic anemia

Diseases & Conditions
Hemolytic transfusion reaction
A hemolytic transfusion reaction is a serious complication that can occur after a blood transfusion. The reaction occurs when the red blood cells that were given during the transfusion are destroyed by...

Diseases & Conditions
Hemolytic-uremic syndrome
Shiga-like toxin producing E coli hemolytic-uremic syndrome (STEC-HUS) is a disorder that most often occurs when an infection in the digestive system produces toxic substances. These substances destroy...

Diseases & Conditions
Hemophilia
Hemophilia refers to a group of bleeding disorders in which blood clotting takes a longer time than normal. There are two forms of hemophilia: Hemophilia A (classic hemophilia, or factor VIII deficiency...

Diseases & Conditions
Hemophilia A
Hemophilia A is a hereditary bleeding disorder caused by a lack of blood clotting factor VIII. Without enough factor VIII, the blood cannot clot properly to control bleeding. bleeding disorder

Diseases & Conditions
Hemophilia B
Hemophilia B is a hereditary bleeding disorder caused by a lack of blood clotting factor IX. Without enough factor IX, the blood cannot clot properly to control bleeding.

Diseases & Conditions
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or lower part of the rectum.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis
Hepatitis is swelling and inflammation of the liver.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the liver from the hepatitis A virus.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis A - children
Hepatitis A in children is swelling and inflamed tissue of the liver due to the hepatitis A virus (HAV). Hepatitis A is the most common type of hepatitis in children.

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is irritation and swelling (inflammation) of the liver due to infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Other types of viral hepatitis include hepatitis A, hepatitis C, and hepatitis D. hepatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis B - children
Hepatitis B in children is swelling and inflamed tissue of the liver due to infection with the hepatitis B virus (HBV). Other common hepatitis virus infections include hepatitis A and hepatitis C. hepatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is a viral disease that leads to swelling (inflammation) of the liver. Other types of viral hepatitis include: Hepatitis AHepatitis BHepatitis DHepatitis E Hepatitis A Hepatitis A Hepatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Hepatitis C - children
Hepatitis C in children is inflammation of tissue of the liver. It occurs due to infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). Other common hepatitis virus infections include hepatitis A and hepatitis B. hepatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Hereditary elliptocytosis
Hereditary elliptocytosis is a disorder passed down through families in which the red blood cells are abnormally shaped. It is similar to other blood conditions such as hereditary spherocytosis and hereditary...

Diseases & Conditions
Hereditary ovalocytosis
Hereditary ovalocytosis is a rare condition passed down through families (inherited). The blood cells are oval-shaped instead of round. It is a form of hereditary elliptocytosis. hereditary elliptocytosis

Diseases & Conditions
Hereditary spherocytic anemia
Hereditary spherocytic anemia is a rare disorder of the surface layer (membrane) of red blood cells. It leads to red blood cells that are shaped like spheres, and premature breakdown of red blood cells...

Diseases & Conditions
Hernia
A hernia is a sac formed by the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). The sac comes through a hole or weak area in the strong layer of the belly wall that surrounds the muscle. This layer is called...

Diseases & Conditions
Herniated disk
A herniated (slipped) disk occurs when all or part of a disk is forced through a weakened part of the disk. This may place pressure on nearby nerves or the spinal cord.

Diseases & Conditions
Herpes - oral
Oral herpes is an infection of the lips, mouth, or gums due to the herpes simplex virus. It causes small, painful blisters commonly called cold sores or fever blisters. Oral herpes is also called herpes...

Diseases & Conditions
Hiatal hernia
Hiatal hernia is a condition in which part of the stomach extends through an opening of the diaphragm into the chest. The diaphragm is the sheet of muscle that divides the chest from the abdomen.

Diseases & Conditions
High arch
High arch is a foot arch that is raised more than normal. The arch runs from the toes to the heel on the bottom of the foot. It is also called pes cavus. High arch is the opposite of flat feet. flat feet

Diseases & Conditions
High blood cholesterol levels
Cholesterol is a fat (also called a lipid) that your body needs to work properly. Too much bad cholesterol in your blood can increase your chance of getting heart disease, stroke, and other problems. heart...

Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure - children
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force exerted against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood to your body. High blood pressure (hypertension) is an increase in this force. This article...

Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure - medicine-related
Drug-induced hypertension is high blood pressure caused by a chemical substance or medicine. high blood pressure

Diseases & Conditions
High blood pressure in adults – hypertension
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force exerted against the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood to your body. Hypertension is the medical term used to describe high blood pressure. Untreated...

Diseases & Conditions
High cholesterol - children
Cholesterol is a fat (also called a lipid) that the body needs to work properly. There are many types of cholesterol. The ones talked about most are: Total cholesterol - all the cholesterols combinedHigh...

Diseases & Conditions
High potassium level
High potassium level is a problem in which the amount of potassium in the blood is higher than normal. The medical name of this condition is hyperkalemia.

Diseases & Conditions
Histoplasmosis
Histoplasmosis is an infection that occurs from breathing in the spores of the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. Histoplasma capsulatum

Diseases & Conditions
Histoplasmosis - acute (primary) pulmonary
Acute pulmonary histoplasmosis is a respiratory infection that is caused by inhaling the spores of the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. spores Histoplasma capsulatum

Diseases & Conditions
Hives
Hives are raised, often itchy, red bumps (welts) on the surface of the skin. They can be an allergic reaction to food or medicine. They can also appear without cause.

Diseases & Conditions
Hookworm infection
Hookworm infection is caused by roundworms. The disease affects the small intestine and lungs.

Diseases & Conditions
Hospital-acquired pneumonia
Hospital-acquired pneumonia is an infection of the lungs that occurs during a hospital stay. This type of pneumonia can be very severe. Sometimes, it can be fatal.

Diseases & Conditions
Hot tub folliculitis
Hot tub folliculitis is an infection of the skin around the lower part of the hair shaft (hair follicles). It usually occurs when you come into contact with certain bacteria that live in warm and wet areas...

Diseases & Conditions
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is a medical condition in which a person sweats excessively and unpredictably. People with hyperhidrosis may sweat even when the temperature is cool or when they are at rest.

Diseases & Conditions
Hypersplenism
Hypersplenism is an overactive spleen. The spleen is an organ found in the upper left side of your abdomen. The spleen helps filter old and damaged cells from your bloodstream. If your spleen is overactive...

Diseases & Conditions
Hypertensive heart disease
Hypertensive heart disease refers to heart problems that occur because of high blood pressure that is present over a long time.

Diseases & Conditions
Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland makes too much thyroid hormone. The condition is often called overactive thyroid.

Diseases & Conditions
Hypogonadism
Hypogonadism occurs when the body's sex glands (gonads) produce little or no hormones. In men, these glands are the testes. In women, these glands are the ovaries.

Diseases & Conditions
Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
Hypogonadism is a condition in which the male testes or the female ovaries produce little or no sex hormones. Hypogonadism testes Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) is a form of hypogonadism that is due...

Diseases & Conditions
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. This condition is often called underactive thyroid.

Diseases & Conditions
Immune hemolytic anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to the body's tissues. Red blood cells last for about 120 days before the body gets...

Diseases & Conditions
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP)
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a bleeding disorder in which the immune system destroys platelets, which are necessary for normal blood clotting. People with the disease have too few platelets...

Diseases & Conditions
Impetigo
Impetigo is a common skin infection.

Diseases & Conditions
Infectious esophagitis
Esophagitis is a term for any inflammation, irritation, or swelling of the esophagus. This is the tube that carries food and liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Infectious esophagitis is an infection...

Diseases & Conditions
Infectious myringitis
Infectious myringitis is an infection that causes painful blisters on the eardrum (tympanic membrane). blisters

Diseases & Conditions
Ingrown toenail
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the skin of the toe.

Diseases & Conditions
Insomnia
Insomnia is trouble falling asleep, staying asleep through the night, or waking up too early in the morning. Episodes of insomnia may come and go or be long-lasting. The quality of your sleep is as important...

Diseases & Conditions
Interstitial cystitis
Interstitial cystitis (IC) is a long-term (chronic) problem in which pain, pressure, or burning is present in the bladder. It is often associated with urinary frequency or urgency. It is also called painful...

Diseases & Conditions
Interstitial lung disease
Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a group of lung disorders in which the lung tissues become inflamed and then damaged.

Diseases & Conditions
Intestinal obstruction and Ileus
Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the bowel. The contents of the intestine cannot pass through it.

Diseases & Conditions
Iron deficiency anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. There are many types and causes of anemia. Iron deficiency anemia occurs...

Diseases & Conditions
Irritable bowel syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a disorder that leads to pain in abdomen and changes in bowel movements. IBS is not the same as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Diseases & Conditions
Jaundice
Jaundice is a yellow color of the skin, mucus membranes, or eyes. The yellow coloring comes from bilirubin, a byproduct of old red blood cells. Jaundice can be a symptom of several health problems.

Diseases & Conditions
Jaundice and breastfeeding
Jaundice is a condition that causes the skin and whites of the eyes to turn yellow. There are two common problems that may occur in newborns receiving breast milk. If jaundice is seen after the first week...

Diseases & Conditions
Jock itch
Jock itch is an infection of the groin area caused by a fungus. The medical term is tinea cruris or ringworm of the groin.

Diseases & Conditions
Kaposi sarcoma
Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a cancerous tumor of the connective tissue. tumor

Diseases & Conditions
Keloids
A keloid is a growth of extra scar tissue. It occurs where the skin has healed after an injury.

Diseases & Conditions
Keratosis pilaris
Keratosis pilaris is a common skin condition in which a protein in the skin called keratin forms hard plugs within hair follicles.

Diseases & Conditions
Kidney stones
A kidney stone is a solid mass made up of tiny crystals. One or more stones can be in the kidney or ureter at the same time.

Diseases & Conditions
Knock knees
Knock knees are condition in which the knees touch, but the ankles do not touch. The legs turn inward.

Diseases & Conditions
Kuru
Kuru is a disease of the nervous system.

Diseases & Conditions
Kyphosis
Kyphosis is a curving of the spine that causes a bowing or rounding of the back. This leads to a hunchback or slouching posture.

Diseases & Conditions
Labyrinthitis
Labyrinthitis is irritation and swelling of the inner ear. It can cause vertigo and hearing loss.

Diseases & Conditions
Lactic acidosis
Lactic acidosis refers to lactic acid build up in the bloodstream. Lactic acid is produced when oxygen levels become low in cells within the areas of the body where metabolism takes place or in response...

Diseases & Conditions
Lactose intolerance
Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and other dairy products. An enzyme called lactase is needed by the body to digest lactose. Lactose intolerance develops when the small intestine does not make enough...

Diseases & Conditions
Laryngitis
Laryngitis is swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the voice box (larynx). The problem is most often associated with hoarseness or loss of voice. hoarseness

Diseases & Conditions
Leishmaniasis
Leishmaniasis is an infectious disease spread by the bite of the female sandfly.

Diseases & Conditions
Leptospirosis
Leptospirosis is an infection caused by leptospira bacteria.

Diseases & Conditions
Leukoplakia
Leukoplakia are white patches on the tongue, in the mouth, or on the inside of the cheek.

Diseases & Conditions
Lichen simplex chronicus
Lichen simplex chronicus (LSC) is a skin condition caused by chronic itching and scratching. chronic

Diseases & Conditions
Listeriosis
Listeriosis is an infection that can occur when a person eats food that has been contaminated with bacteria called Listeria monocytogenes (L monocytogenes). Listeria monocytogenes L monocytogenes

Diseases & Conditions
Liver disease
The term "liver disease" applies to many conditions that stop the liver from working or prevent it from functioning well. Abdominal pain or swelling, yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), or abnormal...

Diseases & Conditions
Liver spots
Liver spots are flat, brown or black spots that can appear on areas of the skin that are exposed to the sun. They have nothing to do with the liver or liver function.

Diseases & Conditions
Long COVID
Most people who have COVID-19 recover completely. Some people continue to have health problems after having COVID-19. This is called long COVID. COVID-19 Long COVID can happen in people who had mild to...

Diseases & Conditions
Low back pain - acute
Low back pain refers to pain that you feel in your lower back. You may also have back stiffness, decreased movement of the lower back, and difficulty standing straight. Acute back pain can last for a few...

Diseases & Conditions
Low back pain - chronic
Low back pain refers to pain that you feel in your lower back. You may also have back stiffness, decreased movement of the lower back, and difficulty standing straight. Low back pain that is long-term is...

Diseases & Conditions
Low blood potassium
Low blood potassium level is a condition in which the amount of potassium in the blood is lower than normal. The medical name of this condition is hypokalemia.

Diseases & Conditions
Low blood pressure
Low blood pressure occurs when blood pressure is much lower than normal. This means the heart, brain, and other parts of the body may not get enough blood. Normal blood pressure is mostly between 90/60 mmHg...

Diseases & Conditions
Low blood sodium
Low blood sodium is a condition in which the sodium level in the blood is lower than normal. The medical name of this condition is hyponatremia.

Diseases & Conditions
Low blood sugar
Low blood sugar is a condition that occurs when the body's blood sugar (glucose) decreases and is too low. Blood sugar below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L) is considered low. Blood sugar at or below this level can...

Diseases & Conditions
Lyme disease
Lyme disease is a bacterial infection that is spread through the bite of one of several types of ticks.

Diseases & Conditions
Lymphadenitis
Lymphadenitis is an infection of the lymph nodes (also called lymph glands). It is a complication of certain bacterial infections. lymph nodes

Diseases & Conditions
Lymphatic obstruction
Lymphatic obstruction is a blockage of the lymph vessels that drain fluid from tissues throughout the body and allow immune cells to travel where they are needed. Lymphatic obstruction may cause lymphedema...

Diseases & Conditions
Lymphofollicular hyperplasia
Lymphofollicular hyperplasia is an increase in the number of cells found in lymph node. These follicles contain normal white blood cells called lymphocytes. Your body produces more lymphocytes to help prevent...

Diseases & Conditions
Lymphoid hyperplasia
Lymphoid hyperplasia is an increase in the number of normal cells contained in the lymph nodes. These cells are called lymphocytes. This can occur as a reaction to infection with bacteria, viruses, or other...

Diseases & Conditions
MSG symptom complex
MSG symptom complex is a set of symptoms associated with eating food with the additive monosodium glutamate (MSG). MSG is the sodium salt a common amino acid, glutamic acid. MSG is found naturally in our...

Diseases & Conditions
Magnesium deficiency
Magnesium deficiency is a condition in which the amount of magnesium in the blood is lower than normal. The medical name of this condition is hypomagnesemia.

Diseases & Conditions
Major depression
Depression is feeling sad, blue, unhappy, or down in the dumps. Most people feel this way once in a while. Major depression is a mood disorder. It occurs when feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration...

Diseases & Conditions
Major depression with psychotic features
Major depression with psychotic features is a mental disorder in which a person has depression along with loss of touch with reality (psychosis).

Diseases & Conditions
Malabsorption
Malabsorption involves problems with the body's ability to take in (absorb) nutrients from food.

Diseases & Conditions
Malaria
Malaria is a parasitic disease that involves high fevers, shaking chills, flu-like symptoms, and anemia. anemia

Diseases & Conditions
Male pattern baldness
Male pattern baldness is the most common type of hair loss in men.

Diseases & Conditions
Malignant hyperthermia
Malignant hyperthermia (MH) is a disease that causes a fast rise in body temperature and severe muscle contractions when someone receives general anesthesia with one or more of the following drugs: halothane...

Diseases & Conditions
Malnutrition
Malnutrition is the condition that occurs when your body does not get enough nutrients.

Diseases & Conditions
Mediastinitis
Mediastinitis is swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the chest area between the lungs (mediastinum). This area contains the heart, large blood vessels, windpipe (trachea), food tube (esophagus), thymus...

Diseases & Conditions
Melanoma
Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer. It is also the rarest. It is the leading cause of death from skin disease. Other common types of skin cancer are squamous cell carcinoma and basal cell...

Diseases & Conditions
Melasma
Melasma is a skin condition that causes patches of dark skin on areas of the face exposed to the sun.

Diseases & Conditions
Meniere disease
Ménière disease is an inner ear disorder that affects balance and hearing.

Diseases & Conditions
Meningitis
Meningitis is an infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. This covering is called the meninges.

Diseases & Conditions
Meningitis - tuberculous
Tuberculous meningitis is an infection of the tissues covering the brain and spinal cord (meninges).

Diseases & Conditions
Meningococcal meningitis
Meningitis is an infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. This covering is called the meninges. Meningitis Bacteria are one type of germ that can cause meningitis. The meningococcal...

Diseases & Conditions
Meningococcemia
Meningococcemia is an acute and potentially life-threatening infection of the bloodstream. acute

Diseases & Conditions
Menopause
Menopause is the time in a woman's life when her periods (menstruation) stop. Most often, it is a natural, normal body change that occurs between ages 45 to 55. After menopause, a woman can no longer become...

Diseases & Conditions
Metabolic acidosis
Metabolic acidosis is a condition in which there is too much acid in the body fluids.

Diseases & Conditions
Metabolic syndrome
Metabolic syndrome is a name for a group of risk factors that occur together and increase the chance of having coronary artery disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. coronary artery disease stroke type 2...

Diseases & Conditions
Methemoglobinemia
Methemoglobinemia (MetHb) is a blood disorder in which an abnormal amount of methemoglobin is produced. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells (RBCs) that carries and distributes oxygen to the body...

Diseases & Conditions
Methemoglobinemia - acquired
Methemoglobinemia is a blood disorder in which the body cannot reuse hemoglobin because it is damaged. Hemoglobin is the oxygen-carrying molecule found in red blood cells. In some cases of methemoglobinemia...

Diseases & Conditions
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)
MRSA stands for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. MRSA is a "staph" germ (bacteria) that does not get better with the type of antibiotics that usually cure staph infections. Staphylococcus aureus...

Diseases & Conditions
Migraine
A migraine is a type of headache. It may occur with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or sensitivity to light and sound. In most people, a throbbing pain is felt only on one side of the head.

Diseases & Conditions
Miscarriage
A miscarriage is the spontaneous loss of a fetus before the 20th week of pregnancy. Pregnancy losses after the 20th week are called stillbirths. Miscarriage is a naturally occurring event, unlike medication...

Diseases & Conditions
Molluscum contagiosum
Molluscum contagiosum is a viral skin infection that causes raised, pearl-like papules or nodules on the skin. papules nodules

Diseases & Conditions
Mononucleosis
Mononucleosis, or mono, is a viral infection that causes fever, sore throat, and swollen lymph glands, most often in the neck.

Diseases & Conditions
Morton neuroma
Morton neuroma is an injury to the nerve between the toes that causes thickening and pain. It commonly affects the nerve that travels between the 3rd and 4th toes.

Diseases & Conditions
Mouth ulcers
Mouth ulcers are sores or open lesions in the mouth. ulcers

Diseases & Conditions
Mucormycosis
Mucormycosis is a fungal infection of the sinuses, brain, or lungs. It occurs in some people with a weakened immune system.

Diseases & Conditions
Muscle disorder
A muscle disorder includes patterns of weakness, loss of muscle tissue, electromyogram (EMG) findings, or biopsy results that suggest a muscle problem. The muscle disorder can be inherited, such as muscular...

Diseases & Conditions
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) is a long-term illness that affects many body systems. People with this illness are not able to do their usual activities. Sometimes, they may be...

Diseases & Conditions
Myotonia congenita
Myotonia congenita is an inherited condition that affects muscle relaxation. It is congenital, meaning that it is present from birth. It occurs more frequently in northern Scandinavia.

Diseases & Conditions
Nasal polyps
Nasal polyps are soft, sac-like growths on the lining of the nose or sinuses.

Diseases & Conditions
Nearsightedness
Nearsightedness is when light entering the eye is focused incorrectly. This makes distant objects appear blurred. Nearsightedness is a type of refractive error of the eye. If you are nearsighted, you have...

Diseases & Conditions
Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum
Necrobiosis lipoidica diabeticorum is an uncommon skin condition related to diabetes. It results in reddish brown areas of the skin, most commonly on the lower legs. diabetes

Diseases & Conditions
Neurocognitive disorder
Neurocognitive disorder is a general term that describes decreased mental function due to a medical disease other than a psychiatric illness. Neurocognitive disorders are grouped into three subcategories...

Diseases & Conditions
Neurosyphilis
Neurosyphilis is a bacterial infection of the brain or spinal cord. It usually occurs in people who have had untreated syphilis for many years. syphilis

Diseases & Conditions
Nicotine and tobacco
The nicotine in tobacco can be addictive like alcohol, cocaine, and morphine.

Diseases & Conditions
Nipple discharge
Nipple discharge is any fluid that comes out of the nipple area in your breast.

Diseases & Conditions
Nocardia infection
Nocardia infection (nocardiosis) is a disorder that affects the lungs, brain, or skin. In otherwise healthy people, it may occur as a local infection. But in people with weakened immune systems, it may...

Diseases & Conditions
Nummular eczema
Nummular eczema is a dermatitis (skin inflammation) in which itchy, coin-shaped spots or patches appear on the skin. The word nummular is Latin for "resembling coins."

Diseases & Conditions
Nursemaid's elbow
Nursemaid's elbow is a dislocation of a bone in the elbow called the radius. Dislocation means the bone slips out of its normal position. dislocation The injury is also called radial head dislocation.

Diseases & Conditions
Obesity
Obesity means weighing more than what is healthy for a given height. Obesity is a serious, chronic disease. It can lead to other health problems, including diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers.

Diseases & Conditions
Obesity in children
Obesity in children means having a weight that is higher than what is healthy for a child’s height. Obesity is a serious, chronic disease. Over time, it can lead to other health problems, including diabetes...

Diseases & Conditions
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder in which people have unwanted and repeated thoughts, feelings, ideas, sensations (obsessions), and behaviors that drive them to do something over...

Diseases & Conditions
Occupational asthma
Occupational asthma is a lung disorder in which substances found in the workplace cause the airways of the lungs to swell and narrow. This leads to attacks of wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness...

Diseases & Conditions
Occupational hearing loss
Occupational hearing loss is damage to the inner ear from noise or vibrations due to certain types of jobs.

Diseases & Conditions
Opiate and opioid withdrawal
Opiates or opioids are drugs used to treat pain. Opiates are derived from plants and opioids are synthetic drugs that have the same actions as opiates. The term narcotic refers to either type of drug. If...

Diseases & Conditions
Opioid intoxication
Opioid-based drugs include morphine, oxycodone, and synthetic (man-made) opioid narcotics, such as fentanyl. They are prescribed to treat pain after surgery or a dental procedure. Sometimes, they are used...

Diseases & Conditions
Oral human papillomavirus infection
Human papillomavirus infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection. The infection is caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). HPV can cause genital warts and lead to cervical cancer. Certain...

Diseases & Conditions
Oral mucous cyst
An oral mucous cyst is a painless, thin sac on the inner surface of the mouth. It contains clear fluid. cyst

Diseases & Conditions
Osgood-Schlatter disease
Osgood-Schlatter disease is a painful swelling of the bump on the upper part of the shinbone, just below the knee. This bump is called the anterior tibial tubercle.

Diseases & Conditions
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common joint disorder. It is due to aging and wear and tear on a joint.

Diseases & Conditions
Osteomyelitis
Osteomyelitis is a bone infection. It is mainly caused by bacteria or other germs.

Diseases & Conditions
Osteomyelitis in children
Osteomyelitis is a bone infection caused by bacteria or other germs.

Diseases & Conditions
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break (fracture).

Diseases & Conditions
Panic disorder
Panic disorder is a type of anxiety disorder in which you have repeated attacks of intense fear that something bad will happen.

Diseases & Conditions
Parkinson disease
Parkinson disease results from certain brain cells dying. These cells help control movement and coordination. The disease leads to shaking (tremors) and trouble walking and moving. tremors trouble walking...

Diseases & Conditions
Paronychia
Paronychia is a skin infection that occurs around the nails.

Diseases & Conditions
Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH)
Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH) is a rare blood disorder in which the body's immune system produces antibodies that destroy red blood cells. It occurs when the person is exposed to cold temperatures...

Diseases & Conditions
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH)
Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria is a rare disease in which red blood cells break down earlier than normal.

Diseases & Conditions
Pellagra
Pellagra is a disease that occurs when a person does not get enough niacin (one of the B complex vitamins) or tryptophan (an amino acid). niacin tryptophan

Diseases & Conditions
Pemphigus vulgaris
Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is an autoimmune disorder of the skin. It involves blistering and sores (erosions) of the skin and mucous membranes. autoimmune disorder mucous membranes

Diseases & Conditions
Peptic ulcer
A peptic ulcer is an open sore or raw area in the lining of the stomach or intestine. There are two types of peptic ulcers: Gastric ulcer -- occurs in the stomachDuodenal ulcer -- occurs in the first part...

Diseases & Conditions
Perianal streptococcal cellulitis
Perianal streptococcal cellulitis is an infection of the anus and rectum. The infection is caused by streptococcus bacteria.

Diseases & Conditions
Perichondritis
Perichondritis is an infection of the skin and tissue surrounding the cartilage of the outer ear.

Diseases & Conditions
Perioral dermatitis
Perioral dermatitis is a skin disorder resembling acne or rosacea. In most cases, it involves tiny red bumps that form on the lower half of the face in the folds of the nose and around the mouth. acne rosacea

Diseases & Conditions
Peripheral artery disease - legs
Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition of the blood vessels that supply the legs and feet. It occurs due to narrowing of the arteries in the legs. This causes decreased blood flow, which can injure...

Diseases & Conditions
Pernicious anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. There are many types of anemia. Pernicious anemia is a decrease in red...

Diseases & Conditions
Pharyngitis - sore throat
Pharyngitis, or sore throat, is discomfort, pain, or scratchiness in the throat. It often makes it painful to swallow.

Diseases & Conditions
Pharyngitis - viral
Pharyngitis is swelling in the throat at and just below the tonsils that causes discomfort, pain, or scratchiness. It is often called a "sore throat". Pharyngitis

Diseases & Conditions
Phlegmasia cerulea dolens
Phlegmasia cerulea dolens is an uncommon, severe form of deep venous thrombosis (blood clots in the vein). It most often occurs in the upper leg. deep venous thrombosis

Diseases & Conditions
Phobia - simple/specific
A phobia is an ongoing intense fear or anxiety of a certain object, animal, activity, or setting that poses little to no actual danger.

Diseases & Conditions
Pinworms
Pinworms are small worms that infect the intestines.

Diseases & Conditions
Pityriasis rosea
Pityriasis rosea is a common type of skin rash most often seen in young adults.

Diseases & Conditions
Plague
Plague is a severe bacterial infection that may cause death. The disease affects small mammals, mainly rodents, and humans.

Diseases & Conditions
Plantar fasciitis
The plantar fascia is the thick tissue on the bottom of the foot. It connects the heel bone to the toes and creates the arch of the foot. When this tissue becomes swollen or inflamed, it is called plantar...

Diseases & Conditions
Pleurisy
Pleurisy is an inflammation of the lining of the lungs and chest (the pleura) that leads to chest pain when you take a breath or cough.

Diseases & Conditions
Pneumococcal meningitis
Meningitis is an infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. This covering is called the meninges. Meningitis Bacteria are one type of germ that can cause meningitis. The pneumococcal...

Diseases & Conditions
Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia
Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia is a fungal infection of the lungs. The disease used to be called Pneumocystis carini or PCP pneumonia. Pneumocystis jiroveci Pneumocystis carini

Diseases & Conditions
Pneumonia - weakened immune system
Pneumonia is a lung infection. It can be caused by many different germs, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This article discusses pneumonia that occurs in a person who has a hard time fighting off...

Diseases & Conditions
Polio
Polio is a viral disease that can affect nerves and can lead to partial or full paralysis. The medical name for polio is poliomyelitis. paralysis

Diseases & Conditions
Polycythemia vera
Polycythemia vera (PV) is a bone marrow disease that leads to an abnormal increase in the number of blood cells. The red blood cells are the most affected blood cell type.

Diseases & Conditions
Porphyria
Porphyrias are a group of rare inherited disorders. An important part of hemoglobin, called heme, is not made properly. Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Heme is also found...

Diseases & Conditions
Post-splenectomy complications
Post-splenectomy complications can occur after surgery to remove the spleen. Complications may include: Blood clotsDestruction of red blood cellsIncreased risk for severe infections from bacteria such as...

Diseases & Conditions
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a type of anxiety disorder. It can occur after you have gone through an extreme emotional trauma that involved the threat of injury or death. anxiety disorder

Diseases & Conditions
Premenstrual syndrome
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) refers to a wide range of symptoms. The symptoms start during the second half of the menstrual cycle (14 or more days after the first day of your last menstrual period). These...

Diseases & Conditions
Primary amyloidosis
Primary amyloidosis is a rare disorder in which abnormal proteins build up in tissues and organs. Clumps of the abnormal proteins are called amyloid deposits.

Diseases & Conditions
Proctitis
Proctitis is an inflammation of the rectum. It can cause discomfort, bleeding, and the discharge of mucus or pus.

Diseases & Conditions
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is cancer that starts in the prostate gland. The prostate is a small, walnut-shaped structure that makes up part of a man's reproductive system. It wraps around the urethra, the tube that...

Diseases & Conditions
Prostatitis - bacterial
Prostatitis is inflammation of the prostate gland. This problem can be caused by an infection with bacteria. However, this is not a common cause. Acute prostatitis starts quickly. Long-term (chronic) prostatitis...

Diseases & Conditions
Prothrombin deficiency
Prothrombin deficiency is a disorder caused by a lack of a protein in the blood called prothrombin. It leads to problems with blood clotting (coagulation). Prothrombin is also known as factor II (factor...

Diseases & Conditions
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes skin redness, silvery scales, and irritation. Most people with psoriasis have thick, red, well-defined patches of skin with flaky, silver-white scales. This is...

Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonary actinomycosis
Pulmonary actinomycosis is a rare lung infection caused by bacteria.

Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonary aspergilloma
Pulmonary aspergilloma is a mass caused by a fungal infection. It usually grows in lung cavities. The infection can also appear in the brain, kidney, or other organs.

Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonary embolus
A pulmonary embolus is a blockage of an artery in the lungs. The most common cause of the blockage is a blood clot. blood clot

Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonary tuberculosis
Pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious bacterial infection that involves the lungs. It may spread to other organs.

Diseases & Conditions
Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease
Pulmonary veno-occlusive disease (PVOD) is a very rare disease. It leads to high blood pressure in the lung arteries (pulmonary hypertension). pulmonary hypertension

Diseases & Conditions
Pyogenic liver abscess
Pyogenic liver abscess is a pus-filled pocket of fluid within the liver. Pyogenic means "with pus". abscess

Diseases & Conditions
Q fever
Q fever is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that are spread by domestic and wild animals and ticks.

Diseases & Conditions
Radial nerve dysfunction
Radial nerve dysfunction is a problem with the radial nerve. This is the nerve that travels from the armpit down the back of the arm to the hand. It helps you move your arm, wrist, and hand.

Diseases & Conditions
Radiation enteritis
Radiation enteritis is damage to the lining of the intestines (bowels) caused by radiation therapy, which is used for some types of cancer treatment. enteritis radiation therapy

Diseases & Conditions
Rat-bite fever
Rat-bite fever is a rare bacterial disease spread by the bite of an infected rodent.

Diseases & Conditions
Rectal prolapse
Rectal prolapse occurs when the rectum sags and comes through the anal opening.

Diseases & Conditions
Red birthmarks
Red birthmarks are skin markings created by blood vessels close to the skin surface. They develop before or shortly after birth.

Diseases & Conditions
Relapsing fever
Relapsing fever is a bacterial infection transmitted by a louse or tick. It is characterized by repeated episodes of fever.

Diseases & Conditions
Retroperitoneal inflammation
Retroperitoneal inflammation causes swelling that occurs in the retroperitoneal space. Over time, it can lead to a mass behind the abdomen and its contents called retroperitoneal fibrosis. The retroperitoneal...

Diseases & Conditions
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease that leads to inflammation of the joints and surrounding tissues. It is a long-term disease. It can also affect other organs.

Diseases & Conditions
Ringworm
Ringworm is a skin infection due to a fungus. Often, there are several patches of ringworm on the skin at once. The medical name for ringworm is tinea.

Diseases & Conditions
Ringworm of the body
Ringworm is a skin infection that is caused by fungi. It is also called tinea. Ringworm Related skin fungus infections may appear: On the scalpIn a man's beardIn the groin (jock itch)Between the toes (athlete...

Diseases & Conditions
Ringworm of the scalp
Ringworm of the scalp is a fungal infection that affects the scalp. It is also called tinea capitis. Related ringworm infections may be found: In a man's beardIn the groin (jock itch)Between the toes (athlete...

Diseases & Conditions
Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is a disease caused by a type of bacteria carried by ticks.

Diseases & Conditions
Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic skin problem that makes your face turn red. It may also cause swelling and skin sores that look like acne. acne

Diseases & Conditions
Rotator cuff problems
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that attach to the bones of the shoulder joint, allowing the shoulder to move and keep it stable. Rotator cuff tendinitis refers to irritation of these...

Diseases & Conditions
Salmonella enterocolitis
Salmonella enterocolitis is a bacterial infection in the lining of the small intestine that is caused by Salmonella bacteria. It is a type of food poisoning.

Diseases & Conditions
Scabies
Scabies is an easily-spread skin disease caused by a very small mite.

Diseases & Conditions
Schistosomiasis
Schistosomiasis is an infection with a type of blood fluke parasite called schistosomes.

Diseases & Conditions
Schizoid personality disorder
Schizoid personality disorder is a mental condition in which a person has a lifelong pattern of indifference to others and social isolation.

Diseases & Conditions
Sciatica
Sciatica refers to pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the leg. It is caused by injury to or pressure on the sciatic nerve. Sciatica is a symptom of a medical problem. It is not a medical condition...

Diseases & Conditions
Scleredema diabeticorum
Scleredema diabeticorum is a skin condition that occurs in some people with diabetes. It causes skin to become thick and hard on the back of the neck, shoulders, arms, and upper back.

Diseases & Conditions
Scoliosis
Scoliosis is an abnormal curving of the spine. Your spine is your backbone. It runs straight down your back. Everyone's spine naturally curves a bit. But people with scoliosis have a spine that curves too...

Diseases & Conditions
Scrofula
Scrofula is a tuberculosis infection of the lymph nodes in the neck. tuberculosis

Diseases & Conditions
Scurvy
Scurvy is a disease that occurs when you have a severe lack of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) in your diet. Scurvy causes general weakness, anemia, gum disease, poor wound healing, and skin hemorrhages. anemia...

Diseases & Conditions
Seasonal affective disorder
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs at a certain time of the year, usually in winter.

Diseases & Conditions
Seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis is a common inflammatory skin condition. It causes flaky, white to yellowish scales to form on oily areas such as the scalp, face, or inside the ear. It can occur with or without reddened...

Diseases & Conditions
Seborrheic keratosis
Seborrheic keratosis is a condition that causes wart-like growths on the skin. The growths are noncancerous (benign). benign

Diseases & Conditions
Secondary systemic amyloidosis
Secondary systemic amyloidosis is a disorder in which abnormal proteins build up in tissues and organs. Clumps of the abnormal proteins are called amyloid deposits. Secondary means it occurs because of...

Diseases & Conditions
Selective deficiency of IgA
Selective deficiency of IgA is the most common immune deficiency disorder. People with this disorder have a low or absent level of a blood protein called immunoglobulin A. immune deficiency disorder

Diseases & Conditions
Sepsis
Sepsis is an illness in which the body has a severe, inflammatory response to bacteria or other germs.

Diseases & Conditions
Septic arthritis
Septic arthritis is inflammation of a joint due to a bacterial or fungal infection. Septic arthritis that is due to the bacteria that cause gonorrhea, has different symptoms and is called gonococcal arthritis...

Diseases & Conditions
Septic shock
Septic shock is a serious condition that occurs when a body-wide infection leads to dangerously low blood pressure.

Diseases & Conditions
Septicemia
Septicemia is bacteria in the blood (bacteremia) that often occurs with severe infections. Also called sepsis, septicemia is a serious, life-threatening response to an infection that may get worse very...

Diseases & Conditions
Serum sickness
Serum sickness is a reaction that is similar to an allergy. The immune system reacts to medicines that contain proteins used to treat immune conditions. It can also react to antiserum, the liquid part of...

Diseases & Conditions
Shigellosis
Shigellosis is a bacterial infection of the lining of the intestines. It is caused by a group of bacteria called Shigella.

Diseases & Conditions
Shingles
Shingles is a painful, blistering skin rash. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, a member of the herpes family of viruses. This is the virus that also causes chickenpox. chickenpox

Diseases & Conditions
Silent thyroiditis
Silent thyroiditis is an immune reaction of the thyroid gland. The disorder can cause hyperthyroidism, followed by hypothyroidism. The thyroid gland is located in the neck, just above where your collarbones...

Diseases & Conditions
Sinusitis
Sinusitis is present when the tissue lining the sinuses become swollen or inflamed. It occurs as the result of an inflammatory reaction or an infection from a virus, bacteria, or fungus.

Diseases & Conditions
Sjogren syndrome
Sjögren syndrome is an autoimmune disorder in which the glands that produce tears and saliva are destroyed. This causes dry mouth and dry eyes. The condition may affect other parts of the body, including...

Diseases & Conditions
Skin abscess
A skin abscess is a buildup of pus in or on the skin.

Diseases & Conditions
Sleep disorders
Sleep disorders are problems with sleeping. These include trouble falling or staying asleep, falling asleep at the wrong times, too much sleep, and abnormal behaviors during sleep.

Diseases & Conditions
Sleeping sickness
Sleeping sickness is an infection caused by tiny parasites carried by certain flies. It results in swelling of the brain.

Diseases & Conditions
Sleepwalking
Sleepwalking is a disorder that occurs when people walk or do other activity while they are still asleep.

Diseases & Conditions
Social anxiety disorder
Social anxiety disorder is a persistent and irrational fear of situations that may involve scrutiny or judgment by others, such as at parties and other social events.

Diseases & Conditions
Spasmodic dysphonia
Spasmodic dysphonia is difficulty speaking due to spasms (dystonia) of the muscles that control the vocal cords.

Diseases & Conditions
Speech disorders - children
A speech disorder is a condition in which a person has problems creating or forming the speech sounds needed to communicate with others. This can make the child's speech difficult to understand. Common...

Diseases & Conditions
Spider angioma
Spider angioma is an abnormal collection of blood vessels near the surface of the skin.

Diseases & Conditions
Spinal stenosis
Spinal stenosis is narrowing of the spinal column that causes pressure on the spinal cord, or narrowing of the openings (called neural foramina) where spinal nerves leave the spinal column.

Diseases & Conditions
Spondylolisthesis
Spondylolisthesis is a condition in which a bone (vertebra) in the spine moves forward out of the proper position onto the bone below it.

Diseases & Conditions
Stable angina
Stable angina is chest pain or discomfort that most often occurs with activity or emotional stress. Angina is due to poor blood flow through the blood vessels in the heart called the coronary arteries....

Diseases & Conditions
Staphylococcal meningitis
Meningitis is an infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. This covering is called the meninges. Meningitis Bacteria are one type of germ that may cause meningitis. The staphylococcal...

Diseases & Conditions
Stasis dermatitis and ulcers
Stasis dermatitis is a change in the skin that results from the pooling of blood in the veins of the lower leg. Ulcers are open sores that can result from untreated stasis dermatitis.

Diseases & Conditions
Strabismus
Strabismus is a disorder in which both eyes do not line up in the same direction. Therefore, they do not look at the same object at the same time. The most common form of strabismus is known as "crossed...

Diseases & Conditions
Strep throat
Strep throat is a disease that causes a sore throat (pharyngitis). It is an infection with a bacteria called group A streptococcus.

Diseases & Conditions
Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain stops. A stroke is sometimes called a "brain attack." If blood flow is cut off for longer than a few seconds, the brain cannot get nutrients and oxygen...

Diseases & Conditions
Strongyloidiasis
Strongyloidiasis is an infection with the roundworm Strongyloides stercoralis (S stercoralis). Strongyloides stercoralis (S stercoralis).

Diseases & Conditions
Subacute thyroiditis
Subacute thyroiditis is an immune reaction of the thyroid gland that often follows an upper respiratory infection. The thyroid gland is located in the neck, just above where your collarbones meet in the...

Diseases & Conditions
Subconjunctival hemorrhage
Subconjunctival hemorrhage is a bright red patch appearing in the white of the eye. This condition is one of several disorders called red eye.

Diseases & Conditions
Substance use disorder
Substance use disorder occurs when a person's use of alcohol or another substance (drug) leads to health issues or problems at work, school, or home. This disorder is also called substance abuse.

Diseases & Conditions
Suicide and suicidal behavior
Suicide is the act of taking one's own life on purpose. Suicidal behavior is any action that could cause a person to die, such as taking a drug overdose or crashing a car on purpose.

Diseases & Conditions
Superficial thrombophlebitis
Thrombophlebitis is a swollen or inflamed vein due to a blood clot. Superficial refers to veins just below the skin's surface. blood clot

Diseases & Conditions
Swallowing difficulty
Difficulty with swallowing is the feeling that food or liquid is stuck in the throat or at any point before the food enters the stomach. This problem is also called dysphagia.

Diseases & Conditions
Swimmer's ear
Swimmer's ear is inflammation, irritation, or infection of the outer ear and ear canal. The medical term for swimmer's ear is otitis externa. Swimmer's ear may be sudden and short-term (acute) or long-term...

Diseases & Conditions
Syphilitic aseptic meningitis
Syphilitic aseptic meningitis, or syphilitic meningitis, is a complication of untreated syphilis. It involves inflammation of the tissues covering the brain and spinal cord caused by this bacterial infection...

Diseases & Conditions
TMJ disorders
Temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders (TMJ disorders) are problems that affect the chewing muscles and joints that connect your lower jaw to your skull.

Diseases & Conditions
Tabes dorsalis
Tabes dorsalis is a complication of untreated syphilis that involves muscle weakness and abnormal sensations. syphilis

Diseases & Conditions
Tapeworm infection - beef or pork
Beef or pork tapeworm infection is an infection with the tapeworm parasite found in beef or pork.

Diseases & Conditions
Tapeworm infection - hymenolepis
Hymenolepis infection is an infestation by one of two species of tapeworm: Hymenolepis nana or Hymenolepis diminuta. The disease is also called hymenolepiasis. Hymenolepis nana Hymenolepis diminuta

Diseases & Conditions
Tendinitis
Tendons are the fibrous structures that join muscles to bones. When these tendons become swollen or inflamed, it is called tendinitis. In many cases, tendinosis (tendon degeneration) is also present.

Diseases & Conditions
Tennis elbow
Tennis elbow is soreness or pain on the outside (lateral) side of the upper arm near the elbow.

Diseases & Conditions
Tenosynovitis
Tenosynovitis is inflammation of the lining of the sheath that surrounds a tendon (the cord that joins muscle to bone).

Diseases & Conditions
Tension headache
A tension headache is the most common type of headache. It is pain or discomfort in the head, scalp, or neck, and is often associated with muscle tightness in these areas.

Diseases & Conditions
Testicular failure
Testicular failure occurs when the testicles cannot produce sperm or male hormones, such as testosterone. testicles

Diseases & Conditions
Tetanus
Tetanus is an infection of the nervous system with a type of bacteria that is potentially deadly, called Clostridium tetani (C tetani). Clostridium tetani (C tetani)

Diseases & Conditions
Thalassemia
Thalassemia is a blood disorder passed down through families (inherited) in which the body makes an abnormal form or inadequate amount of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries...

Diseases & Conditions
Thrombocytopenia
Thrombocytopenia is any disorder in which there is an abnormally low amount of platelets. Platelets are parts of the blood that help blood to clot. This condition is sometimes associated with abnormal bleeding...

Diseases & Conditions
Thrombophlebitis
Thrombophlebitis is swelling (inflammation) of a vein. A blood clot (thrombus) in the vein is the most common cause of this swelling. blood clot

Diseases & Conditions
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a blood disorder in which platelet clumps form in small blood vessels. This leads to a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia). thrombocytopenia

Diseases & Conditions
Thrush - children and adults
Thrush is a yeast infection of the tongue and lining of the mouth.

Diseases & Conditions
Tick paralysis
Tick paralysis is a loss of muscle function that results from a tick bite. tick bite

Diseases & Conditions
Tinea versicolor
Tinea versicolor is a common fungal infection of the outer layer of the skin.

Diseases & Conditions
Tonsillitis
Tonsillitis is inflammation (swelling) of the tonsils.

Diseases & Conditions
Toxic shock syndrome
Toxic shock syndrome is a serious disease that involves fever, shock, and problems with several body organs. shock

Diseases & Conditions
Toxoplasmosis
Toxoplasmosis is an infection due to the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. Toxoplasma gondii

Diseases & Conditions
Transient ischemic attack
A transient ischemic attack (TIA) occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain stops for a brief time. A person will have stroke-like symptoms for up to 24 hours. In most cases, the symptoms last for 1...

Diseases & Conditions
Trichinosis
Trichinosis is an infection with the roundworm Trichinella spiralis. Trichinella spiralis

Diseases & Conditions
Trichomoniasis
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomonas vaginalis.

Diseases & Conditions
Trigeminal neuralgia
Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) is a nerve disorder. It causes a stabbing or electric shock-like pain in parts of the face.

Diseases & Conditions
Tularemia
Tularemia is a bacterial infection in wild rodents. The bacteria are passed to humans through contact with tissue from the infected animal. The bacteria can also be passed by ticks, biting flies, and mosquitoes...

Diseases & Conditions
Tumor
A tumor is an abnormal growth of body tissue. Tumors can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign).

Diseases & Conditions
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong (chronic) disease in which there is a high level of sugar (glucose) in the blood. chronic

Diseases & Conditions
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a lifelong (chronic) disease in which there is a high level of sugar (glucose) in the blood. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes. chronic

Diseases & Conditions
Typhoid fever
Typhoid fever is an infection that causes fever, diarrhea, and a rash. It is most commonly caused by bacteria called Salmonella typhi (S typhi). diarrhea rash Salmonella typhi S typhi

Diseases & Conditions
Typhus
Typhus is a bacterial disease spread by lice or fleas.

Diseases & Conditions
Ulcerative colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a condition in which the lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum become inflamed. It is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn disease is another form of IBD. Crohn...

Diseases & Conditions
Ulnar nerve dysfunction
Ulnar nerve dysfunction is a problem with one of the nerves that travel from the shoulder to the hand, called the ulnar nerve. It helps you move your arm, wrist, and hand.

Diseases & Conditions
Urethritis
Urethritis is inflammation (swelling and irritation) of the urethra. The urethra is the tube that carries urine from the body.

Diseases & Conditions
Urinary tract infection - adults
A urinary tract infection, or UTI, is an infection of the urinary tract. The infection can occur at different points in the urinary tract, including the: Bladder -- An infection in the bladder is also...

Diseases & Conditions
Uterine fibroids
Uterine fibroids are tumors that grow in a woman's womb (uterus). These growths are typically not cancerous (benign), and do not become cancerous.

Diseases & Conditions
Vaginal or uterine bleeding
Vaginal bleeding normally occurs during a woman's menstrual cycle, when she gets her period. Every woman's period is different. Most women have cycles between 24 and 34 days apart. It usually lasts 4 to...

Diseases & Conditions
Vaginal yeast infection
Vaginal yeast infection is an infection of the vagina. It is most often due to the fungus Candida albicans. Candida albicans

Diseases & Conditions
Valley fever
Valley fever is an infection that occurs when the spores of the fungus Coccidioides immitis enter your body through the lungs. spores Coccidioides immitis

Diseases & Conditions
Varicose veins
Varicose veins are swollen, twisted, and enlarged veins that you can see under the skin. They are often red or blue in color. They most often appear in the legs, but can occur in other parts of the body...

Diseases & Conditions
Venous insufficiency
Venous insufficiency is a condition in which the veins have problems sending blood from the legs back to the heart.

Diseases & Conditions
Vertigo-associated disorders
Vertigo is a sensation of motion or spinning that is often described as dizziness. Vertigo Vertigo is not the same as being lightheaded. People with vertigo feel as though they are actually spinning or...

Diseases & Conditions
Viral arthritis
Viral arthritis is swelling and irritation (inflammation) of a joint caused by a viral infection.

Diseases & Conditions
Viral gastroenteritis (stomach flu)
Viral gastroenteritis is present when a virus causes an infection of the stomach and intestine. The infection can lead to diarrhea and vomiting. It is sometimes called the "stomach flu." diarrhea

Diseases & Conditions
Viral pneumonia
Pneumonia is inflamed or swollen lung tissue due to infection with a germ. Viral pneumonia is caused by a virus.

Diseases & Conditions
Visceral larva migrans
Visceral larva migrans (VLM) is a human infection with certain parasites found in the intestines of dogs and cats.

Diseases & Conditions
Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia
Anemia is a condition in which the body does not have enough healthy red blood cells. Red blood cells provide oxygen to body tissues. There are many types of anemia. Vitamin B12 deficiency anemia is a low...

Diseases & Conditions
Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a skin condition in which there is a loss of color (pigment) from areas of skin. This results in uneven white patches that have no pigment, but the skin feels normal. patches

Diseases & Conditions
Von Willebrand disease
Von Willebrand disease is the most common hereditary bleeding disorder. bleeding disorder

Diseases & Conditions
Vulvovaginitis
Vulvovaginitis or vaginitis is swelling or infection of the vulva and vagina. Vaginitis is a common problem that can affect women and girls of all ages.

Diseases & Conditions
Warts
Warts are small, usually painless growths on the skin. Most of the time, they are harmless. They are caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). There are more than 150 types of HPV viruses. Some...

Diseases & Conditions
Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome
Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome (WFS) is a group of symptoms caused when the adrenal glands fail to function normally. This occurs as a result of bleeding into the glands.

Diseases & Conditions
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a brain disorder due to vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency. vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency

Diseases & Conditions
West Nile virus infection
West Nile virus causes a viral disease and is spread by mosquitoes. The condition ranges from mild to severe.

Diseases & Conditions
Whipworm infection
Whipworm infection is an infection of the large intestine with a type of roundworm.

Diseases & Conditions
Yellow fever
Yellow fever is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes.

Diseases & Conditions
Zika virus disease
Zika is a virus passed to humans by the bite of infected mosquitoes. Symptoms include fever, joint pain, rash, and red eyes (conjunctivitis).

Special Topics

Special Topics
10 ways to cut 500 calories a day
Weight loss - 500 calories; Overweight - 500 calories; Obesity - 500 calories; Diet - 500 calories

Special Topics
12 healthy snacks with 200 calories or less
Nibbles; Appetizers; Healthy eating - healthy snacks; Weight loss - healthy snacks; Healthy diet - healthy snacks; Wellness - healthy snacks

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A guide to herbal remedies

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Abdominal girth
Abdominal girth is the measurement of the distance around the abdomen at a specific point. Measurement is most often made at the level of the belly button (navel). Abdominal girth is used to diagnose and...

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Acute
Acute means sudden. Acute symptoms appear, change, or worsen rapidly. It is the opposite of chronic. chronic

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Advance care directives
Living will; Power of attorney; DNR - advance directive; Do not resuscitate - advance directive; Do-not-resuscitate - advance directive; Durable power of attorney - advance care directive; POA - advance...

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Aerobic
Aerobic means oxygen is needed to: SurviveGrowWork properly Survive Grow Work properly For example, bacteria that need oxygen to grow are called aerobic bacteria. Aerobic is the opposite of anaerobic. anaerobic

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After a fall in the hospital
Hospital safety - falls; Patient safety - falls

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Aging changes in hair and nails

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Aging changes in hormone production

Special Topics
Aging changes in immunity

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Aging changes in organs, tissue and cells

Special Topics
Aging changes in skin
Aging changes in the skin are a group of common conditions and developments that occur as people grow older.

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Aging changes in sleep

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Aging changes in the bones - muscles - joints

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Aging changes in the breast

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Aging changes in the face

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Aging changes in the heart and blood vessels

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Aging changes in the kidneys and bladder

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Aging changes in the lungs

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Aging changes in the male reproductive system
Aging changes in the male reproductive system may include changes in testicular tissue, sperm production, and erectile function. These changes usually occur gradually.

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Aging changes in the nervous system

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Aging changes in the senses
As you age, the way your senses (hearing, vision, taste, smell, touch) give you information about the world changes. Your senses become less sharp, and this can make it harder for you to notice details...

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Aging changes in vital signs

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Aging spots - should you be concerned?

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Alcohol use and safe drinking
Alcohol use involves drinking beer, wine, or hard liquor.

Special Topics
Alcohol use disorder - resources

Special Topics
Allergen
An allergen is a substance that can cause an allergic reaction. In some people, the immune system recognizes allergens as foreign or dangerous. As a result, the immune system reacts by making a type of...

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Alternative medicine - pain relief
Alternative medicine refers to low- to no-risk treatments that are used instead of conventional (standard) ones. If you use an alternative treatment along with conventional medicine or therapy, it is considered...

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Anterior
Anterior means "in front of" or "the front surface of." It usually refers to the front side of the body. For example, your knee caps are on the anterior part of your body.

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Antibiotic resistance
Antimicrobials - resistance; Antimicrobial agents - resistance; Drug-resistant bacteria

Special Topics
Are you getting too much exercise?

Special Topics
Arthritis - resources

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Aspartic acid
Aspartic acid is a nonessential amino acid. Amino acids are building blocks of proteins. amino acid "Nonessential" means that our bodies produce it, even if we do not get this amino acid from the food we...

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Aspiration
Aspiration means to draw in or out using a sucking motion. It has two meanings: Breathing in a foreign object (for example, sucking food into the airway).A medical procedure that removes something from...

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Asymptomatic
Asymptomatic means there are no symptoms. You are considered asymptomatic if you: Have recovered from an illness or condition and no longer have symptoms of that illness or conditionHave an illness or condition...

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Auscultation
Auscultation is listening to the sounds of the body during a physical examination. physical examination

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Back pain - when you see the doctor
When you first see your health care provider for back pain, you will be asked about your back pain, including how often and when it occurs and how severe it is. Your provider will try to determine the cause...

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Beneficios de dejar el tabaco
Tabaquismo pasivo; Fumar cigarrillo - dejar; Dejar el hábito del tabaco; Tabaco que se fuma y que no se fuma - abandonar el consumo; Por qué es recomendable dejar de fumar

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Benefits of quitting tobacco
If you smoke, you should quit. But quitting can be hard. Most people who have quit smoking have tried at least once, and often several times, without long-term success in the past. View any past attempts...

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Biofeedback
Biofeedback is a technique that measures bodily functions and gives you information about them in order to help train you to control them.

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Birth control - slow release methods
Certain birth control methods contain man-made forms of hormones. The natural forms of these hormones are normally made in a woman's ovaries. These hormones are called estrogen and progestin. Both of these...

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Blood pressure monitors for home
Your health care provider may ask you to keep track of your blood pressure at home. To do this, you will need to get home blood pressure monitor. The monitor you choose should be good quality and fit well...

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Body mass index
A good way to decide if your weight is healthy for your height is to figure out your body mass index (BMI). You and your health care provider can use your BMI to estimate how much body fat you have.

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Body temperature norms
Normal body temperature varies by person, age, activity, and time of day. The average normal body temperature is generally accepted as 98. 6°F (37°C). Some studies have shown that the "normal" body temperature...

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Bowel retraining
A program of bowel retraining, Kegel exercises, or biofeedback therapy may be used by people to help improve their bowel movements. Kegel exercises biofeedback

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Break the bonds of emotional eating
Obesity - emotional eating; Overweight - emotional eating; Diet - emotional eating; Weight loss - emotional meaning

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Breast cancer screening
Mammogram - breast cancer screening; Breast exam - breast cancer screening; MRI - breast cancer screening

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Breast self-exam
A breast self-exam is something a woman does at home to look for changes or problems in her breast tissue. Many women feel that doing this is important to their health. However, experts do not agree about...

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COPD - managing stress and your mood
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - emotions; Stress - COPD; Depression - COPD

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COPD and other health problems
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - comorbidities; COPD - comorbidities

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COVID-19 and face masks
COVID-19 - cloth face coverings; COVID-19 - face coverings; Coronavirus - face masks

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COVID-19 vaccine - what you need to know
All content below is taken in its entirety from the CDC COVID-19 Vaccine Information Statement (VIS): www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/covid-19.html www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/covid-19...

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COVID-19 vaccines
COVID-19 vaccines are used to prepare the body's immune system to protect against COVID-19. Everyone ages 6 months and older should get a 2023-2024 updated COVID-19 vaccine. This includes people who are...

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COVID-19 vaccines for children ages 6 months and older
COVID-19 vaccines are used to prepare the body's immune system to protect against COVID-19.

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Calcification
Calcification is a process in which calcium builds up in body tissue, causing the tissue to harden. This can be a normal or abnormal process.

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Calcium and bones

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Calcium supplements
WHO SHOULD TAKE CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS? Calcium is an important mineral for the human body. It helps build and protect your teeth and bones. Getting enough calcium over your lifetime can help prevent osteoporosis...

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Calorie count - Alcoholic beverages
Weight loss - calorie count - alcoholic beverages; Overweight - calorie count - alcoholic beverages; Obesity - calorie count - alcoholic beverages

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Calorie count - fast food
Weight-loss calorie count fast food; Obesity - calorie count fast food; Overweight - calorie count fast food; Healthy diet - calorie count fast food

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Calorie count - sodas and energy drinks
Weight-loss calorie count sodas; Obesity - calorie sodas; Overweight - calorie count sodas; Healthy diet - calorie count sodas

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Can you boost your metabolism?
Weight-loss boost metabolism; Obesity - boost metabolism; Overweight - boost metabolism

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Cardiovascular
The term cardiovascular refers to the heart (cardio) and the blood vessels (vascular). The cardiovascular system includes: ArteriesArteriolesCapillariesHeartVenules Arteries Arterioles Capillaries Heart...

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Cellulite
Cellulite is fat that collects in pockets just below the surface of the skin. It forms around the hips, thighs, and buttocks. Cellulite deposits cause the skin to look dimpled.

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Central line infections - hospitals
Central line-associated bloodstream infection; CLABSI; Peripherally inserted central catheter - infection; PICC - infection; Central venous catheter - infection; CVC - infection; Central venous device ...

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Chafing
Chafing is skin irritation that occurs where skin rubs against skin, clothing, or other material.

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Chapped hands

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Chapped lips

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Chicken soup and sickness

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Chikungunya virus
Chikungunya virus infection; Chikungunya

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Choosing a primary care provider
A primary care provider (PCP) is a health care practitioner who sees people that have common medical problems. This person is most often a doctor. However, a PCP may be a physician assistant or a nurse...

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Choosing effective patient education materials

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Chronic
Chronic refers to something that continues over an extended period of time. A chronic condition is usually long-lasting and does not easily or quickly go away. Chronic is the opposite of acute. acute

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Chronic pain - resources

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Colds and flu – antibiotics
Antibiotics DO NOT cure colds and flus.

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College students and the flu
Every year, the flu spreads across college campuses nationwide. Close living quarters, shared restrooms, and a lot of social activities make a college student more likely to catch the flu. This article...

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Colon cancer screening
Colon cancer screening can detect polyps and early cancers in the large intestine. This type of screening can find problems that can be treated before cancer develops or spreads. Regular screenings may...

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Communicating with patients

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Concomitant
Concomitant means occurring during the same time period. It usually refers to secondary symptoms that occur with a main symptom.

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Condoms - male
A condom is a thin cover worn on the penis during intercourse. Using a condom will help prevent: Female partners from becoming pregnant. Getting an infection spread through sexual contact, or from giving...

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Consumer rights and protections
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) took effect on September 23, 2010. It includes certain rights and protections for consumers. These rights and protections help make health care coverage more fair and easy...

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Contraindication
A contraindication is a specific situation in which a medicine, procedure, or surgery should not be used because it may be harmful to the person. There are two types of contraindications: Relative contraindication...

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Could you have low testosterone?
Male menopause; Andropause; Testosterone deficiency; Low-T; Androgen deficiency of the aging male; Late-onset hypogonadism

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Creating a family health history
Family health history; Create a family health history; Family medical history

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Cytochrome b5 reductase
Cytochrome b5 reductase is an enzyme in the blood. It controls the amount of iron in your red blood cells, and helps the cells carry the normal amount of oxygen. enzyme People who do not have enough of...

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DASH diet to lower high blood pressure

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Dance your way to fitness
Exercise - dance; Wellness - dance

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Deciding about hormone therapy
HRT - deciding; Estrogen replacement therapy - deciding; ERT- deciding; Hormone replacement therapy - deciding; Menopause - deciding; HT - deciding; Menopausal hormone therapy - deciding; MHT - deciding

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Deciding about treatments that prolong life
Palliative care - treatments that prolong life; Palliative care - life support; End-of-life-treatments that prolong life; Ventilator - treatments that prolong life; Respirator - treatments that prolong...

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Dementia - home care
Dementia is a loss of cognitive function that occurs with certain diseases. It affects memory, thinking, and behavior.

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Depression - resources

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Diabetes - insulin therapy
Diabetes - insulin

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Diabetes myths and facts
Diabetes - common myths and facts; High blood sugar myths and facts

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Diet and cancer
Diet can have an impact on your risk of developing many types of cancer. You can reduce your overall risk by following a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

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Diet for rapid weight loss
Very low-calorie diet; VLCD; Low-calorie diet; LCD; Very low energy diet; Weight loss - rapid weight loss; Overweight - rapid weight loss; Obesity - rapid weight loss; Diet - rapid weight loss; Intermittent...

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Diet myths and facts
Obesity - diet myths and facts; Overweight - diet myths and fact; Weight-loss diet myths and facts

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Diet-boosting foods
Obesity - diet-boosting foods; Overweight - diet-boosting foods

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Dietary fat and children

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Digestive diseases
Digestive diseases are disorders of the digestive tract, which is sometimes called the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In digestion, food and drink are broken down into small parts (called nutrients) that...

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Distal
Distal refers to sites located away from a specific area, most often the center of the body. In medicine, it refers to parts of the body further away from the center. For example, the hand is distal to...

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Distracted driving
Safety - distracted driving

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Do you have a drinking problem?
Alcohol use disorder - drinking problem; Alcohol abuse - drinking problem; Alcoholism - drinking problem; Alcohol dependence - drinking problem; Alcohol addiction - drinking problem

Special Topics
Do-not-resuscitate order
No code; End-of-life; Do not resuscitate; Do not resuscitate order; DNR; DNR order; Advance care directive - DNR; Health care agent - DNR; Health care proxy - DNR; End-of-life - DNR; Living will - DNR

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Doctor of medicine profession (MD)
MDs may be found within a wide range of medical practice settings, including private practices, group practices, hospitals, health maintenance organizations, teaching facilities, and public health organizations...

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Domestic violence
Intimate partner violence; Spousal abuse; Elder abuse; Child abuse; Sexual abuse - domestic violence

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E-cigarettes and E-hookahs
Electronic cigarettes; Electronic hookahs; Vaping; Vape pens; Mods; Pod-Mods; Electronic nicotine delivery systems; Smoking - electronic cigarettes

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Ear - blocked at high altitudes
The air pressure outside of your body changes as altitude changes. This creates a difference in pressure on the two sides of the eardrum. You may feel pressure and blockage in the ears as a result. pressure...

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Eating disorders - resources

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Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood and other body fluids that carry an electric charge. Electrolytes affect how your body functions in many ways, including: The amount of water in your bodyThe acidity...

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Elimination patterns
Elimination patterns describe the regulation, control, and removal of by-products and wastes in the body. The term usually refers to the movement of feces or urine from the body.

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Endoscope
An endoscope is a medical device with a light attached. It is used to look inside a body cavity or organ. The scope is inserted through a natural opening, such as the mouth during a bronchoscopy, or the...

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Enzyme
Enzymes are complex proteins that cause a specific chemical change. For example, they can help break down the foods we eat so the body can use them. Blood clotting is another example of enzymes at work...

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Enzyme markers
Enzyme markers are tests for specific enzyme activity in the body. Diseases or defects passed down through families (inherited) can affect how enzymes work. Some enzymes are affected by several genes. enzyme...

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Estimated average glucose (eAG)
eAG

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Etiology
Etiology describes the cause or causes of a disease.

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Exercise and age
It is never too late to start exercising. Exercise has benefits at any age. Staying active will allow you to continue being independent and the lifestyle you enjoy. The right kinds of regular exercise can...

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Exercise and immunity
Battling another cough or cold? Feeling tired all the time? You may feel better if you take a daily walk or follow a simple exercise routine a few times a week.

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Exercise clothing and shoes
Fitness - exercise clothing

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Exercising on a budget
Exercise - budget; Weight loss - Exercise; Obesity - exercise

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Exudate
Exudate is fluid that leaks out of blood vessels into nearby tissues. The fluid is made of cells, proteins, and solid materials. Exudate may ooze from cuts or from areas of infection or inflammation. It...

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Eye - foreign object in

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Eye floaters

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Facts about monounsaturated fats
Monounsaturated fatty acid; MUFA; Oleic acid; Cholesterol - monounsaturated fat; Atherosclerosis - monounsaturated fat; Hardening of the arteries - monounsaturated fat; Hyperlipidemia - monounsaturated...

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Facts about polyunsaturated fats
Polyunsaturated fatty acid; PUFA; Cholesterol - polyunsaturated fat; Atherosclerosis - polyunsaturated fat; Hardening of the arteries - polyunsaturated fat; Hyperlipidemia - polyunsaturated fat; Hypercholesterolemia...

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Facts about saturated fats
Cholesterol - saturated fat; Atherosclerosis - saturated fat; Hardening of the arteries - saturated fat; Hyperlipidemia - saturated fat; Hypercholesterolemia - saturated fat; Coronary artery disease - saturated...

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Facts about trans fats
Trans fatty acids; Partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs); Cholesterol - trans fats; Hyperlipidemia - trans fats; Atherosclerosis - trans fat; Hardening of the arteries - trans fat; Hypercholesterolemia - trans...

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Family troubles - resources

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Fecal immunochemical test (FIT)
Immunochemical fecal occult blood test; iFOBT; Colon cancer screening - FIT

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Fibrates
Antilipemic agent; Fenofibrate (Antara, Fenoglide, Lipofen, Tricor, and Triglide); Gemfibrozil (Lopid); Fenofibric acid (Trilipix); Hyperlipidemia - fibrates; Hardening of the arteries - fibrates; Cholesterol...

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Food poisoning prevention

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Foods - fresh vs. frozen or canned

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Getting a prescription filled

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Give your heart a workout
Exercise - heart workout; CAD prevention - workout; Cardiovascular disease prevention - workout

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Glycemic index and diabetes

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Hangover treatment
A hangover is the unpleasant symptoms a person has after drinking too much alcohol. Symptoms can include: Headache and dizzinessNauseaFatigueSensitivity to light and soundRapid heartbeatDepression, anxiety...

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Health care agents
Durable power of attorney for health care; Health care proxy; End-of-life - health care agent; Life support treatment - health care agent; Respirator - health care agent; Ventilator - health care agent...

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Health screenings for men age 65 and older
You should visit your health care provider regularly, even if you feel healthy. The purpose of these visits is to: Screen for medical issuesAssess your risk for future medical problemsEncourage a healthy...

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Health screenings for men ages 18 to 39
You should visit your health care provider regularly, even if you feel healthy. The purpose of these visits is to: Screen for medical issuesAssess your risk for future medical problemsEncourage a healthy...

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Health screenings for men ages 40 to 64
You should visit your health care provider regularly, even if you feel healthy. The purpose of these visits is to: Screen for medical issuesAssess your risk for future medical problemsEncourage a healthy...

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Health screenings for women age 65 and older
You should visit your health care provider from time to time, even if you are healthy. The purpose of these visits is to: Screen for medical issuesAssess your risk for future medical problemsEncourage a...

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Health screenings for women ages 18 to 39
You should visit your health care provider from time to time, even if you are healthy. The purpose of these visits is to: Screen for medical issuesAssess your risk for future medical problemsEncourage a...

Special Topics
Health screenings for women ages 40 to 64
You should visit your health care provider from time to time, even if you are healthy. The purpose of these visits is to: Screen for medical issuesAssess your risk for future medical problemsEncourage a...

Special Topics
Healthy food trends - Brussels sprouts
Healthy food trends - Brussels cabbage; Healthy snacks - brussels sprouts; Weight loss - brussels sprouts; Healthy diet - brussels sprouts; Wellness - brussels sprouts

Special Topics
Healthy food trends - beans and legumes
Healthy food trends - pulses; Healthy eating - beans and legumes; Weight loss - beans and legumes; Healthy diet - beans and legumes; Wellness - beans and legumes

Special Topics
Healthy food trends - kale
Healthy food trends - borecole; Healthy snacks - kale; Weight loss - kale; Healthy diet - kale; Wellness - kale

Special Topics
Healthy food trends - microgreens
Healthy snacks - microgreens; Weight loss - microgreens; Healthy diet - microgreens; Wellness - microgreens

Special Topics
Healthy food trends -- chia seeds
Healthy food trends - sage; Healthy food trends - salvia; Healthy snacks - Chia seeds; Weight loss - Chia seeds; Healthy diet - Chia seeds; Wellness - Chia seeds

Special Topics
Healthy food trends -- flaxseeds
Healthy food trends - flax meal; Healthy food trends - flax seeds; Healthy food trends - linseeds; Healthy snacks - flaxseeds; Healthy diet - flaxseeds; Wellness - flaxseeds

Special Topics
Healthy food trends -- quinoa
Healthy food trends - goosefoot; Healthy snacks - quinoa; Weight loss - quinoa; Healthy diet - quinoa; Wellness - quinoa

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Healthy living

Special Topics
Heart disease and women
People often do not consider heart disease a woman's disease. Yet cardiovascular disease is the leading killer of women over age 25. It kills nearly twice as many women in the United States as all types...

Special Topics
Help prevent hospital errors
Medical errors - prevention; Patient safety - hospital errors

Special Topics
Helping a loved one with a drinking problem
Alcohol abuse - helping a loved one; Alcohol use - helping a loved one

Special Topics
Hemolysis
Hemolysis is the breakdown of red blood cells.

Special Topics
Hemorrhagic
Hemorrhage is the medical term for bleeding. It most often refers to excessive bleeding. Hemorrhagic diseases are caused by bleeding, or they result in bleeding (hemorrhaging). Related topics include: Primary...

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High blood pressure and diet
Making changes to your diet is a proven way to help control high blood pressure. These changes can also help you lose weight and lower your chance of heart disease and stroke. high blood pressure Your health...

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High blood pressure medications
Treating high blood pressure will help prevent problems such as heart disease, stroke, loss of eyesight, chronic kidney disease, and other blood vessel diseases. high blood pressure You may need to take...

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Hospice care
Palliative care - hospice; End-of-life care - hospice; Dying - hospice; Cancer - hospice

Special Topics
How to choose the best hospital for surgery
The quality of the health care you receive depends on many things besides the skill of your surgeon. Many health care providers at a hospital will be directly involved in your care before, during, and after...

Special Topics
How to protect yourself and others from COVID-19
COVID-19 - Prevention; 2019 Novel Coronavirus - Prevention; SARS CoV 2 - Prevention

Special Topics
How to take statins
Antilipemic Agent; HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors; Atorvastatin (Lipitor); Simvastatin (Zocor); Lovastatin (Mevacor, Altoprev); Pitavastatin (Livalo, Zypitamag); Pravastatin (Pravachol); Rosuvastatin (Crestor...

Special Topics
IV treatment at home
Home intravenous antibiotic therapy; Central venous catheter - home; Peripheral venous catheter - home; Port - home; PICC line - home; Infusion therapy - home; Home health care - IV treatment

Special Topics
Immune response
The immune response is how your body recognizes and defends itself against bacteria, viruses, and substances that appear foreign and harmful.

Special Topics
Incidence
Incidence is the number of new cases of a condition, symptom, death, or injury that develop during a specific time period, such as a year. Incidence shows the likelihood that a person in a certain population...

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Indoor fitness routine
Fitness - indoors; Exercise - indoors

Special Topics
Informed consent - adults

Special Topics
Insidious
An insidious disease is any disease that comes on slowly and does not have obvious symptoms at first. The person is not aware of its development.

Special Topics
Inspection
In medical terms, "inspection" means to look at the person or body part. It is the first step in a physical exam.

Special Topics
Insulin and syringes - storage and safety
Diabetes - insulin storage

Special Topics
Insulin pumps
Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion; CSII; Diabetes - insulin pumps

Special Topics
Intravenous
Intravenous means "within a vein. " Most often it refers to giving medicines or fluids through a needle or tube inserted into a vein. This allows the medicine or fluid to enter your bloodstream right away...

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Intrinsic factor
Intrinsic factor is a protein that helps your intestines absorb vitamin B12. It is made by cells in the stomach lining.

Special Topics
Invasive
An invasive disease is one that spreads to surrounding tissues. An invasive procedure is one in which the body is "invaded", or entered by a needle, tube, device, or scope.

Special Topics
Jaundice causes
Jaundice is a yellow color in the skin, mucous membranes, or eyes. The yellow color comes from bilirubin, a byproduct of your body processing old red blood cells. Jaundice is often a sign of a disease....

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Keeping your medicines organized
Pill organizer; Pill dispenser

Special Topics
Kinins
Kinins are proteins in the blood that cause inflammation and affect blood pressure (especially causing blood pressure to go down). They also: Increase blood flow throughout the bodyMake it easier for fluids...

Special Topics
Lateral
Lateral means to the side of, or away from, the middle of the body. Examples: The ears are lateral to the nose. The arms are lateral to the chest. The ears are lateral to the nose. The arms are lateral...

Special Topics
Learn to love exercise
Prevention - learn to love exercise; Wellness - learn to love exercise

Special Topics
Learn to manage stress
We all feel stress at one time or another. It's a normal and healthy reaction to change or a challenge. But stress that goes on for more than a few weeks can affect your health. Keep stress from making...

Special Topics
Lipofuscin
Lipofuscin is a brownish pigment left over from the breakdown and absorption of damaged blood cells. Lipofuscin is found in heart muscle and smooth muscles. It is also called the aging pigment.

Special Topics
Lower-calorie choices for alcoholic drinks
Low-calorie spirits; Low-calorie mixed drinks; Low-calorie alcohol; Low-calorie alcoholic beverages; Weight loss - low-calorie cocktails; Obesity - low-calorie cocktails

Special Topics
Lung problems and volcanic smog
Volcanic smog is also called vog. It forms when a volcano erupts and releases gases into the atmosphere. Volcanic smog can irritate the lungs and make existing lung problems worse.

Special Topics
MRI and low back pain
Back pain and sciatica are common health complaints. Almost everyone has back pain at some time in their life. Most of the time, the exact cause of the pain can't be found. Back pain sciatica An MRI scan...

Special Topics
Macrophage
A macrophage is a type of immune cell. It destroys foreign substances to protect the body from infection.

Special Topics
Make time to move
Exercise - time to move; Weight loss - time to move; Obesity - time to move

Special Topics
Mammogram - calcifications
Calcifications are tiny deposits of calcium in your breast tissue. They are often seen on a mammogram. mammogram

Special Topics
Maximizing your teaching moment

Special Topics
Medial
Medial means toward the middle or center. It is the opposite of lateral. The term is used to describe general positions of body parts. For example, the chest is medial to the arm. lateral Your health care...

Special Topics
Medicine safety - Filling your prescription
Medical errors - medicine; Preventing medicine errors

Special Topics
Medicine safety during your hospital stay
Medication safety - hospital; Five rights - medication; Medication administration - hospital; Medical errors - medication; Patient safety - medication safety

Special Topics
Medicines for back pain
Acute back pain often goes away on its own over several weeks. In some people, back pain persists. It may not go away completely or it may get more painful at times. Medicines can help with your back pain...

Special Topics
Medicines for sleep
Benzodiazepines; Sedatives; Hypnotics; Sleeping pills; Insomnia - medicines; Sleep disorder - medicines

Special Topics
Metabolism
Metabolism refers to all the physical and chemical processes in the body that convert or use energy, such as: BreathingCirculating bloodControlling body temperatureContracting musclesDigesting food and...

Special Topics
Metabolite
A metabolite is any substance produced during metabolism (digestion or other bodily chemical processes). metabolism The term metabolite may also refer to the product that remains after a medicine is broken...

Special Topics
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)
Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus; MERS-CoV; Coronaviruses; CoV

Special Topics
Migraine - resources

Special Topics
Mucosa
Mucosa is moist tissue that lines certain parts of the inside of your body. It is in your: NoseMouthLungsDigestive tractUrinary and genital tracts Nose Mouth Lungs Digestive tract Urinary and genital tracts...

Special Topics
Muscle strain treatment
Question: How do you treat a muscle strain? muscle strain Answer: Rest the strained muscle and apply ice for the first few days after the injury. Anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen, naproxen...

Special Topics
Métodos anticonceptivos de liberación lenta
Determinados métodos de control de la natalidad contienen formas artificiales de hormonas. Las formas naturales de estas hormonas usualmente se producen en los ovarios de una mujer. Estas hormonas se denominan...

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Nausea and acupressure

Special Topics
Newborn head molding
Newborn head molding is an abnormal head shape that results from pressure on the baby's head during childbirth.

Special Topics
Niacin for cholesterol
Antilipemic agent; Vitamin B3; Nicotinic acid; Niaspan; Niacor; Hyperlipidemia - niacin; Hardening of the arteries - niacin; Cholesterol - niacin; Hypercholesterolemia - niacin; Dyslipidemia - niacin

Special Topics
Nicotine replacement therapy
Nicotine replacement therapy is a treatment to help people stop smoking. It uses products that supply low doses of nicotine. These products do not contain the other toxins found in smoke. The goal of therapy...

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Noninvasive
The term noninvasive can refer to diseases, procedures, or devices. Noninvasive diseases usually do not spread to or damage other organs and tissues. Noninvasive procedures do not involve tools that...

Special Topics
Nurse practitioner (NP)
A nurse practitioner (NP) is a nurse with a graduate degree in advanced practice nursing. This type of provider may also be referred to as an ARNP (Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner) or APRN (Advanced...

Special Topics
Oily hair
Oily hair is the result of the oil (sebaceous) glands in the scalp producing large amounts of oil.

Special Topics
Oily skin
Oily skin is the result of the oil (sebaceous) glands in the skin producing large amounts of oil.

Special Topics
Omega-3 fats - Good for your heart
Cholesterol - omega-3s; Atherosclerosis - omega-3s; Hardening of the arteries - omega-3s; Coronary artery disease - omega-3s; Heart disease - omega-3s

Special Topics
Outdoor fitness routine
Exercise - outdoors

Special Topics
Over-the-counter medicines
You can buy many medicines for minor problems at the store without a prescription (over-the-counter). Important tips for using over-the-counter medicines: Always follow the printed directions and warnings...

Special Topics
Over-the-counter pain relievers
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers can help relieve pain or lower a fever. Over-the-counter means you can buy these medicines without a prescription. The most common types of OTC pain medicines are acetaminophen...

Special Topics
Overcoming job stress

Special Topics
Pain medications - narcotics
Narcotics are also called opioid pain relievers. They are only used for pain that is severe and is not helped by other types of painkillers. When used carefully and under a health care provider's direct...

Special Topics
Palliative care - fear and anxiety
End of life care - fear and anxiety; Hospice care - fear and anxiety

Special Topics
Palliative care - shortness of breath
Dyspnea - end-of-life; Hospice care - shortness of breath

Special Topics
Palliative care - what the final days are like
End of life - final days; Hospice - final days

Special Topics
Palpation
Palpation is a method of feeling with the fingers or hands during a physical examination. The health care provider touches and feels your body to examine the size, consistency, texture, location, and tenderness...

Special Topics
Pedicle
A pedicle is a stem or stalk of tissue that connects parts of the body to each other. The brain has many pedicles (such as the cerebral pedicle) that connect areas of the brain to each other. Skin tags...

Special Topics
Percussion
Percussion is a method of tapping body parts with fingers, hands, or small instruments as part of a physical examination. It is done to determine: The size, consistency, and borders of body organsThe presence...

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Peripheral
Peripheral means "away from the center." It refers to areas away from the center of the body or a body part. For example, the hands are peripheral to the shoulder. The toes are peripheral to the knees.

Special Topics
Pesticides on fruits and vegetables

Special Topics
Pets and the immunocompromised person
If you have a weak immune system, having a pet can put you at risk for serious illness from diseases that can spread from animals to humans. Learn what you can do to protect yourself and stay healthy.

Special Topics
Physical activity
Physical activity -- which includes an active lifestyle and routine exercise -- plus eating well, is the best way to stay healthy.

Special Topics
Physical exam frequency
Even if you feel fine, you should still see your health care provider for regular checkups. These visits can help you avoid problems in the future. For example, the only way to find out if you have high...

Special Topics
Physical examination
During a physical examination, a health care provider checks your body to determine if you do or do not have a physical problem. A physical examination usually includes: Inspection (looking at the body...

Special Topics
Physician Assistant profession (PA)

Special Topics
Preventing food poisoning
To prevent food poisoning, take the following steps when preparing food: food poisoning Carefully wash your hands often, and always before cooking or cleaning. Always wash them again after touching raw...

Special Topics
Preventing stroke
Stroke - prevention; CVA - prevention; Cerebral vascular accident - prevention; TIA - prevention, Transient ischemic attack - prevention

Special Topics
Preventive health care

Special Topics
Proliferation
Proliferation is the growth of tissue cells. In many diseases, it is abnormal. Cancer cells are very prolific. They have higher than normal rates of cell division and growth. Cancer

Special Topics
Prosthesis
A prosthesis is a device designed to replace a missing part of the body or to make a part of the body work better. Diseased or missing eyes, arms, hands, legs, or joints are commonly replaced by prosthetic...

Special Topics
Protuberance
A protuberance is a body part that bulges (protrudes) outward from a surface. For example, the ears protrude from the head.

Special Topics
Proximal
Proximal means nearer to the center (trunk of the body) or to the point of attachment to the body. If another reference point is given, such as the heart, the proximal point of another organ or extremity...

Special Topics
RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) vaccine - what you need to know
All content below is taken in its entirety from the CDC RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Vaccine Information Statement (VIS): www. cdc. gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/rsv. html. www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp...

Special Topics
Recovering after stroke
A stroke happens when blood flow to any part of the brain stops. stroke Each person has a different recovery time and need for long-term care. Problems with moving, thinking, and talking often improve in...

Special Topics
Remembering tips
People who have early memory loss can use a number of techniques to help with remembering things. Below are some tips.

Special Topics
Reportable diseases
Reportable diseases are diseases considered to be of great public health importance. In the United States, local, state, and national agencies (for example, county and state health departments or the United...

Special Topics
Resources

Special Topics
Risks of tobacco
Knowing the serious health risks of using tobacco may help motivate you to quit. Using tobacco over a long time can increase your risk for many health problems.

Special Topics
Salads and nutrients

Special Topics
Shared decision making
Patient-centered care

Special Topics
Sitz bath
A sitz bath is a warm water bath used for healing or cleansing purposes. You sit in the bath. The water covers only your hips and buttocks. The water may contain medicine. Sitz baths are often used to relieve...

Special Topics
Skin sagging treatment - underarms

Special Topics
Sleep and your health

Special Topics
Smallpox/monkeypox vaccine (JYNNEOS) - what you need to know
All content below is taken in its entirety from the CDC Smallpox/Monkeypox Vaccine Information Statement (VIS): www. cdc. gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/smallpox-monkeypox. html. www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis...

Special Topics
Smoking and COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - smoking; COPD - secondhand smoke

Special Topics
Smoking cessation medications
Your health care provider can prescribe medicines to help you quit tobacco use. These medicines do not contain nicotine and are not habit-forming. They work in a different way than nicotine patches, gums...

Special Topics
Soluble vs. insoluble fiber

Special Topics
Splinter removal
A splinter is a thin piece of material (such as wood, glass, or metal) that gets embedded just below the top layer of your skin.

Special Topics
Sports physical

Special Topics
Staph infections in the hospital

Special Topics
Stimulants
Stimulants are drugs or medicines that increase your heart rate, breathing rate, and brain function. Some stimulants affect only a specific organ, such as the heart, lungs, brain, or nervous system. Epinephrine...

Special Topics
Stimulus
A stimulus is anything that can trigger a physical or behavioral change. The plural of stimulus is stimuli. Stimuli can be external or internal. An example of external stimuli is your body responding to...

Special Topics
Stop smoking support programs
It is hard to quit smoking if you are acting alone. Smokers usually have a much better chance of quitting with a support program. Stop smoking programs are offered by hospitals, health departments, community...

Special Topics
Stress and your heart
Coronary heart disease - stress; Coronary artery disease - stress

Special Topics
Substance use
Substance use is the continued use of alcohol, illegal drugs, or the misuse of prescription or over-the-counter medicines with negative consequences. These consequences may involve: Substance use Problems...

Special Topics
Substance use - LSD
Substance abuse - LSD; Drug abuse - LSD; Drug use - LSD; Lysergic acid diethylamide; Hallucinogen - LSD

Special Topics
Substance use - amphetamines
Substance abuse - amphetamines; Drug abuse - amphetamines; Drug use - amphetamines

Special Topics
Substance use - cocaine
Substance abuse - cocaine; Drug abuse - cocaine; Drug use - cocaine

Special Topics
Substance use - inhalants
Substance abuse - inhalants; Drug abuse - inhalants; Drug use - inhalants; Glue - inhalants

Special Topics
Substance use - marijuana
Substance abuse - marijuana; Drug abuse - marijuana; Drug use - marijuana; Cannabis; Grass; Hashish; Mary Jane; Pot; Weed

Special Topics
Substance use - phencyclidine (PCP)
PCP; Substance abuse - phencyclidine; Drug abuse - phencyclidine; Drug use - phencyclidine

Special Topics
Substance use - prescription drugs
Substance use disorder - prescription drugs; Substance abuse - prescription drugs; Drug abuse - prescription drugs; Drug use - prescription drugs; Narcotics - substance use; Opioid - substance use; Sedative...

Special Topics
Substance use recovery and diet
Substance use harms the body in two ways: The substance itself affects the body. It causes negative lifestyle changes, such as irregular eating and poor diet. The substance itself affects the body. It causes...

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Symptomatic
Symptomatic can mean showing symptoms, or it may concern a specific symptom. Symptoms may be signs of disease or injury. They are what a person feels. Many conditions and diseases have symptoms. A cough...

Special Topics
Systemic
Systemic means affecting the entire body, rather than a single organ or body part. For example, systemic disorders, such as high blood pressure, or systemic diseases, such as influenza (the flu), affect...

Special Topics
Taking care of your back at home
Low back pain refers to pain that you feel in your lower back. You may also have back stiffness, decreased movement of the lower back, and difficulty standing straight. There are many things you can do...

Special Topics
Taking iron supplements
Eating iron rich foods is a key part of treating anemia caused by low iron levels. You may also need to take iron supplements as well to rebuild iron stores in your body.

Special Topics
Taking multiple medicines safely
Polypharmacy

Special Topics
Talking to your child about smoking
Nicotine - talking to your child; Tobacco - talking to your children; Cigarettes - talking to your child

Special Topics
Teenagers and drugs
As a parent, it is natural to worry about your teenager. And, like many parents, you may be afraid that your teen may try drugs, or worse, become dependent on drugs. While you cannot control everything...

Special Topics
Teenagers and sleep

Special Topics
Teething
Teething is the growth of teeth through the gums in the mouth of infants and young children.

Special Topics
Telehealth
Telehealth; Telemedicine; Mobile health (mHealth); Remote patient monitoring; E-health

Special Topics
Thrombolytic therapy
Thrombolytic therapy is the use of drugs to break up or dissolve blood clots, which are the main cause of both heart attacks and stroke.

Special Topics
Tips on how to quit smoking
There are many ways to quit smoking. There are also resources to help you. Family members, friends, and co-workers may be supportive. But to be successful, you must really want to quit. The tips below can...

Special Topics
Toxins
Toxins are substances created by plants and animals that are poisonous (toxic) to humans. Toxins may also include some medicines that are helpful in small doses, but poisonous in large amounts. Most toxins...

Special Topics
Traveler's guide to avoiding infectious diseases

Special Topics
Tubercle
A tubercle is a small rounded point of a bone. Less often, it refers to a nodule attached to bone, mucous membrane (moist layer lining parts of the body), or skin. mucous membrane skin

Special Topics
Types of health care providers
This article describes health care providers involved in primary care, nursing care, and specialty care.

Special Topics
Types of hormone therapy
HRT- types; Estrogen replacement therapy - types; ERT- types of hormone therapy; Hormone replacement therapy - types; Menopause - types of hormone therapy; HT - types; Menopausal hormone types

Special Topics
Understanding Medicare

Special Topics
Understanding cardiovascular disease

Special Topics
Understanding your breast cancer risk
Carcinoma-lobular - risk; DCIS; LCIS - risk; Ductal carcinoma in situ - risk; Lobular carcinoma in situ - risk; Breast cancer - prevention; BRCA - breast cancer risk

Special Topics
Understanding your colorectal cancer risk
Colon cancer - prevention; Colon cancer - screening

Special Topics
Use of restraints
Restraint devices

Special Topics
Using antibiotics wisely
Antibiotic resistance - prevention; Drug-resistant bacteria - prevention

Special Topics
Using over-the-counter medicines safely
OTC - using safely

Special Topics
Vacation health care
Vacation health care means taking care of your health and medical needs while you travel on a vacation or holidays. This article provides you tips you can use before and while traveling.

Special Topics
Vasoconstriction
Vasoconstriction is the narrowing (constriction) of blood vessels by small muscles in their walls. When blood vessels constrict, blood flow is slowed or blocked. Vasoconstriction may be slight or severe...

Special Topics
Virilization
Virilization is a condition in which a female develops characteristics associated with male hormones (androgens), or when a newborn has characteristics of male hormone exposure at birth.

Special Topics
Visceromegaly
Visceromegaly is enlargement of the organs inside the abdomen, such as the liver, spleen, stomach, kidneys, or pancreas. spleen

Special Topics
Vital signs
Vital signs reflect essential body functions, including your heartbeat, breathing rate, temperature, and blood pressure. Your health care provider may measure, or monitor your vital signs to check your...

Special Topics
Vitamin C and colds

Special Topics
Ways to burn more calories every day
Weight loss - burning calories; Overweight - burning calories; Obesity - burning calories; Physical activity - burning calories; Staying active - burning calories

Special Topics
Wearing gloves in the hospital
Infection control - wearing gloves; Patient safety - wearing gloves; Personal protective equipment - wearing gloves; PPE - wearing gloves; Nosocomial infection - wearing gloves; Hospital acquired infection...

Special Topics
Weight loss and alcohol
Weight loss - alcohol; Overweight - alcohol; Obesity - alcohol; Diet - alcohol

Special Topics
What causes bone loss?
Osteoporosis - causes; Low bone density - causes

Special Topics
What is palliative care?
Comfort care; End of life - palliative care; Hospice - palliative care

Special Topics
When to use the emergency room - adult

Special Topics
When you feel like changing your medicine
Medication - non-compliance; Medication - nonadherence

Special Topics
Wine and heart health
Studies have shown that adults who drink light to moderate amounts of alcohol may be less likely to develop heart disease than those who do not drink at all or are heavy drinkers. However, people who do...

Special Topics
Working with a personal trainer
Exercise - personal trainer

Special Topics
Wound care centers
Pressure ulcer - wound care center; Decubitus ulcer - wound care center; Diabetic ulcer - wound care center; Surgical wound - wound center; Ischemic ulcer - wound center

Special Topics
Yoga for health

Surgery

Surgery
Circumcision
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis. penis

Surgery
Cryotherapy for the skin
Cryotherapy is a method of superfreezing tissue in order to destroy it. This article discusses cryotherapy of the skin.

Surgery
Fecal microbiota transplant
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) helps to replace some of the "bad" bacteria of your colon with "good" bacteria. The procedure helps to restore the good bacteria that have been killed off or limited...

Surgery
Hemodialysis access procedures
Vascular access (often called just "access") is needed for you to get hemodialysis. The access is where you receive hemodialysis. Using the access, blood is removed from your body, cleaned by the dialysis...

Surgery
Iontophoresis
Iontophoresis is the process of passing a weak electrical current through the skin. Iontophoresis has a variety of uses in medicine. This article discusses the use of iontophoresis to decrease sweating...

Surgery
Reverse total shoulder replacement
Reverse total shoulder replacement is surgery to replace the damaged parts of the shoulder joint with artificial parts. This type of surgery may be used for people who cannot have regular shoulder replacement...

Surgery
Skin lesion removal
A skin lesion is an area of the skin that is different than the surrounding skin. This can be a lump, sore, or an area of skin that is not normal. It may also be a skin cancer. Skin lesion removal is a...

Surgery
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement
Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a procedure used to replace the aortic valve without opening the chest. It is used to treat adults who aren't healthy enough for regular valve surgery. The...

Surgery
Vasectomy
A vasectomy is surgery to cut the vas deferens. These are the tubes that carry a sperm from testicles to the urethra. After a vasectomy, sperm cannot move out of the testes. A man who has had a successful...

Tests

Tests
17-Ketosteroids urine test
17-ketosteroids are substances that form when the body breaks down male steroid sex hormones called androgens and other hormones released by the adrenal glands in males and females, and by the testes in...

Tests
17-OH progesterone
17-OH progesterone is a blood test that measures the amount of 17-OH progesterone in the blood. This is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and sex glands. adrenal glands

Tests
24-hour urine protein
A 24-hour urine protein measures the amount of protein released in urine over a 24-hour period.

Tests
A1C test
A1C is a lab test that shows the average level of blood sugar (glucose) over the previous 3 months. It shows how well you are controlling your blood sugar to help prevent complications from diabetes.

Tests
ACE blood test
The ACE test measures the level of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood. enzyme

Tests
ALP - blood test
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is a protein found in all body tissues. Tissues with higher amounts of ALP include the liver, bile ducts, and bone. bile A blood test can be done to measure the level of ALP....

Tests
ALP isoenzyme test
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in many body tissues such as liver, bile ducts, bone, and intestine. There are several different structural forms of ALP called isoenzymes. The structure of...

Tests
Abdominal wall fat pad biopsy
An abdominal wall fat pad biopsy is the removal of a small part of the abdominal wall fat pad for laboratory study of the tissue. biopsy

Tests
Abdominal x-ray
An abdominal x-ray is an imaging test to look at organs and structures in the abdomen. Organs include the liver, spleen, stomach, and intestines. When the test is done to look at the bladder and kidney...

Tests
Abnormal hemoglobins testing
Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that moves oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and body tissues. Hemoglobin derivatives are forms of hemoglobin altered by attachment of carbon monoxide...

Tests
Acid-fast stain
The acid-fast stain is a laboratory test that determines if a sample of tissue, blood, or other body substance is infected with the bacteria that causes tuberculosis (TB) and other illnesses. TB

Tests
Alanine transaminase (ALT) blood test
The alanine transaminase (ALT) blood test measures the level of the enzyme ALT in the blood. enzyme

Tests
Albumin blood (serum) test
Albumin is a protein made by the liver. A serum albumin test measures the amount of this protein in the clear liquid portion of the blood. Albumin can also be measured in the urine. urine

Tests
Ammonia blood test
The ammonia test measures the level of ammonia in a blood sample.

Tests
Amylase - blood
Amylase is an enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates. It is made primarily in the pancreas and the glands that make saliva, and can be found at low levels in other parts of the body. When the pancreas is...

Tests
Amylase - urine
This is a test that measures the amount of amylase in urine. Amylase is an enzyme that helps digest carbohydrates. It is produced mainly in the pancreas and the glands that make saliva. enzyme Amylase may...

Tests
Anthrax blood test
The anthrax blood test is used to measure substances (proteins) called antibodies, which are produced by the body in reaction to the bacteria that cause anthrax. antibodies anthrax

Tests
Anti-DNase B blood test
Anti-DNase B is a blood test to look for antibodies to a substance (protein) produced by group A streptococcus. This is the bacteria that cause strep throat. . strep throat When used together with the ASO...

Tests
Anti-smooth muscle antibody
Anti-smooth muscle antibody is a blood test that detects the presence of antibodies against smooth muscle. The antibody is useful in making a diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis. antibodies

Tests
Antibody titer blood test
Antibody titer is a laboratory test that measures the level of antibodies in a blood sample. antibodies

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Antimitochondrial antibody
Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) are substances (antibodies) that form against mitochondria. The mitochondria are an important part of cells. They are the energy source inside the cells. These help the...

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Antinuclear antibody panel
The antinuclear antibody panel is a blood test that looks at antinuclear antibodies (ANA). antibodies ANA are antibodies produced by the immune system that bind to the body's own tissues.The antinuclear...

Tests
Antiparietal cell antibody test
An antiparietal cell antibody test is a blood test that looks for antibodies against the parietal cells of the stomach. The parietal cells make and release a substance that the body needs to absorb vitamin...

Tests
Antistreptolysin O titer
Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer is a blood test to measure antibodies against streptolysin O, a substance produced by group A streptococcus bacteria. Antibodies are proteins our bodies produce when they...

Tests
Antithrombin III blood test
Antithrombin III (AT III) is a protein that helps control blood clotting. A blood test can determine the amount of AT III present in your body.

Tests
Apolipoprotein B100
Apolipoprotein B100 (apoB100) is a protein that plays a role in moving cholesterol around your body. It is a form of low density lipoprotein (LDL). Mutations (changes) in the gene that directs the body...

Tests
Apolipoprotein CII
Apolipoprotein CII (apoCII) is a protein found in large fat particles that the gastrointestinal tract absorbs. It is also found in very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), which is made up of mostly triglycerides...

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Arterial stick
An arterial stick is the collection of blood from an artery for laboratory testing.

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Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) blood test
The aspartate aminotransferase (AST) blood test measures the level of the enzyme AST in the blood. enzyme

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Aspergillosis precipitin
Aspergillosis precipitin is a laboratory test to detect antibodies in the blood resulting from exposure to the fungus aspergillus. aspergillus

Tests
Audiometry
An audiometry exam tests your ability to hear sounds. Sounds vary, based on their loudness (intensity) and the speed of sound wave vibrations (tone). Hearing occurs when sound waves stimulate the nerves...

Tests
B and T cell screen
B and T cell screen is a laboratory test to determine the amount of B and T lymphocytes in the blood.

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BUN - blood test
BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. A test can be done to measure the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.

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Basic metabolic panel
The basic metabolic panel is a group of blood tests that provides information about your body's metabolism. metabolism

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Beta-carotene blood test
The beta-carotene test measures the level of beta-carotene in the blood.

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Bilirubin - urine
Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, which is a fluid produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder. bile This article is about a lab test to measure the amount of bilirubin in the urine...

Tests
Bilirubin blood test
The bilirubin blood test measures the level of bilirubin in the blood. Bilirubin is a yellowish pigment found in bile, a fluid made by the liver. Bilirubin can also be measured with a urine test. urine...

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Bleeding time
Bleeding time is a medical test that measures how fast small blood vessels in the skin stop bleeding. Because it is difficult to perform correctly, it is rarely used today.

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Blood culture
A blood culture is a laboratory test to check for bacteria or other germs in a blood sample.

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Blood differential test
The blood differential test measures the percentage of each type of white blood cell (WBC) that you have in your blood. It also reveals if there are any abnormal or immature cells.

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Blood pressure measurement
Blood pressure is a measurement of the force on the walls of your arteries as your heart pumps blood through your body. You can measure your blood pressure at home. You can also have it checked at your...

Tests
Blood smear
A blood smear is a blood test that gives information about the number and shape of blood cells. It is often done as part of or along with a complete blood count (CBC).

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Blood typing
Blood typing is a method to tell what type of blood you have. Blood typing is done so you can safely donate your blood or receive a blood transfusion. It is also done to see if you have a substance called...

Tests
Bone marrow culture
Bone marrow culture is an examination of the soft, fatty tissue found inside certain bones. The bone marrow tissue produces blood cells. This test is done to look for an infection inside the bone marrow...

Tests
Bone mineral density test
A bone mineral density (BMD) test measures how much calcium and other types of minerals are in an area of your bone. This test helps your health care provider detect osteoporosis or bone loss and predict...

Tests
Brain natriuretic peptide test
Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) test is a blood test that measures levels of a protein called BNP that is made by your heart and blood vessels. BNP levels are higher than normal when you have heart failure...

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Buccal smear
A buccal (pronounced "buckle") smear is the painless removal of a sample of cells from the inside of your mouth (cheek) for study.

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C-reactive protein
C-reactive protein (CRP) is produced by the liver. The level of CRP rises when there is inflammation in the body. It is one of a group of proteins, called acute phase reactants that go up in response to...

Tests
C1 esterase inhibitor
C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) is a protein found in the fluid part of your blood. It controls a protein called C1, which is part of the complement system. The complement system is a group of nearly 60...

Tests
CBC blood test
A complete blood count (CBC) test measures the following: The number of white blood cells (WBC count)The number of red blood cells (RBC count)The number of plateletsThe total amount of hemoglobin in the...

Tests
CMV blood test
The CMV blood test determines the presence of substances (proteins) called antibodies to a virus called cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the blood. antibodies

Tests
CO2 blood test
CO2 is carbon dioxide. This article discusses the laboratory test to measure the amount of carbon dioxide in the liquid part of your blood, called the serum. In the body, most of the CO2 is in the form...

Tests
COVID-19 antibody test
This blood test shows if you have antibodies against the virus that causes COVID-19. Antibodies are proteins produced by the body in response to harmful substances, such as viruses and bacteria. Antibodies...

Tests
COVID-19 virus test
Testing for the virus that causes COVID-19 involves taking a mucus sample from your upper respiratory tract. This test is used to diagnose COVID-19. The COVID-19 virus test is not used to test your immunity...

Tests
CPK isoenzymes test
The creatine phosphokinase (CPK) isoenzymes test measures the different forms of CPK in the blood. CPK is an enzyme found mainly in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle.

Tests
CSF coccidioides complement fixation test
CSF coccidioides complement fixation is a test that checks for infection due to the fungus Coccidioides in the cerebrospinal (CSF) fluid. This is the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. The name...

Tests
CSF-VDRL test
The CSF-VDRL test is used to help diagnose neurosyphilis. It looks for substances (proteins) called antibodies, which are sometimes produced by the body in reaction to the syphilis-causing bacteria. neurosyphilis...

Tests
CT angiography - head and neck
CT angiography (CTA) combines a CT scan with the injection of dye. CT stands for computed tomography. This technique is able to create pictures of the blood vessels in the head and neck.

Tests
CT scan
A computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create pictures of cross-sections of the body. Related tests include: Abdominal and pelvis CT scanCranial or head CT scanCervical...

Tests
Calcium - ionized
Ionized calcium is calcium in your blood that is not attached to proteins. It is also called free calcium. All cells need calcium in order to work. Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth. It is important...

Tests
Calcium - urine
This test measures the amount of calcium in the urine. All cells need calcium in order to work. Calcium helps build strong bones and teeth. It is important for heart function, and helps with muscle contraction...

Tests
Calcium blood test
The calcium blood test measures the level of calcium in the blood. This article discusses the test to measure the total amount of calcium in your blood. About one half of the calcium in the blood is attached...

Tests
Capillary nail refill test
The capillary nail refill test is a quick test done on the nail beds. It is used to monitor dehydration and the amount of blood flow to tissue. dehydration

Tests
Cardiac event monitors
A cardiac event monitor is a device that you control to record the electrical activity of your heart (ECG). This device is about the size of a pager. It records your heart rate and rhythm. Cardiac event...

Tests
Catecholamine blood test
This test measures the levels of catecholamines in the blood. Catecholamines are hormones made by the adrenal glands. The three catecholamines are epinephrine (adrenaline), norepinephrine, and dopamine...

Tests
Catecholamines - urine
Catecholamines are chemicals made by nerve tissue (including the brain) and the adrenal gland. The main types of catecholamines are dopamine, norepinephrine, and epinephrine. These chemicals break down...

Tests
Ceruloplasmin blood test
The ceruloplasmin test measures the level of the copper-containing protein ceruloplasmin in the blood.

Tests
Chest x-ray
A chest x-ray is an x-ray of the chest, lungs, heart, large arteries, ribs, and diaphragm. x-ray

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Chloride - urine test
The urine chloride test measures the amount of chloride in the urine.

Tests
Chloride test - blood
Chloride is a type of electrolyte. It works with other electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and carbon dioxide (CO2). These substances help keep the proper balance of body fluids and maintain the body...

Tests
Chromium - blood test
Chromium is a mineral that affects insulin, carbohydrate, fat, and protein levels in the body. This article discusses the test to check the amount of chromium in your blood.

Tests
Clean catch urine sample
A clean catch is a method of collecting a urine sample to be tested. The clean-catch urine method is used to prevent germs from the penis or vagina from getting into a urine sample.

Tests
Coccidioides complement fixation
Coccidioides complement fixation is a blood test that looks for substances (proteins) called antibodies, which are produced by the body in reaction to the fungus Coccidioides immitis. This fungus causes...

Tests
Coccidioides precipitin test
Coccidioides precipitin is a blood test that looks for infections due to a fungus called Coccidioides, which causes the disease coccidioidomycosis or valley fever. coccidioidomycosis

Tests
Cologuard
Cologuard is a screening test for colon and rectal cancer. The colon sheds cells from its lining every day. These cells pass with the stool through the colon. Colon cancer cells may have DNA changes in...

Tests
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is an exam that views the inside of the colon (large intestine) and rectum, using a tool called a colonoscope. The colonoscope has a small camera attached to a flexible tube that can reach...

Tests
Complement
Complement is a blood test that measures the activity of certain proteins in the liquid portion of your blood. The complement system is a group of nearly 60 proteins that are in blood plasma or on the surface...

Tests
Complement component 3 (C3)
Complement C3 is a blood test that measures the activity of a certain protein. This protein is part of the complement system. The complement system is a group of nearly 60 proteins that are in blood plasma...

Tests
Complement component 4
Complement component 4 is a blood test that measures the activity of a certain protein. This protein is part of the complement system. The complement system is a group of nearly 60 proteins that are found...

Tests
Complement fixation test to C burnetii
The complement fixation test to Coxiella burnetii (C burnetii) is a blood test that checks for infection due to bacteria called C burnetii, which causes Q fever. Coxiella burnetii C burnetii C burnetii...

Tests
Comprehensive metabolic panel
A comprehensive metabolic panel is a group of blood tests. They provide an overall picture of your body's chemical balance and metabolism. Metabolism refers to all the physical and chemical processes in...

Tests
Coombs test
The Coombs test looks for antibodies that may stick to your red blood cells and cause red blood cells to die too early. antibodies

Tests
Creatine phosphokinase test
Creatine phosphokinase (CPK) is an enzyme in the body. It is found mainly in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle. This article discusses the test to measure the amount of CPK in the blood. enzyme

Tests
Creatinine blood test
The creatinine blood test measures the level of creatinine in the blood. This test is done to see how well your kidneys are working. Creatinine in the urine can be measured with a urine test.

Tests
Creatinine clearance test
The creatinine clearance test helps provide information about how well the kidneys are working. The test compares the creatinine level in urine with the creatinine level in blood.

Tests
Creatinine urine test
The creatinine urine test measures the amount of creatinine in urine. This test is done to see how well your kidneys are working. Creatinine in the blood can be measured by a blood test.

Tests
Cryoglobulins
Cryoglobulins are antibodies that become solid or gel-like at low temperatures in the laboratory. This article describes the blood test used to check for them. In the laboratory, cryoglobulins come out...

Tests
D-dimer test
D-dimer tests are used to check for blood clotting problems. Blood clots can cause health problems, such as: Blood clots Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC)Pulmonary embolism...

Tests
Delta-ALA urine test
Delta-ALA is a protein (amino acid) produced by the liver. A test can be done to measure the amount of this substance in the urine.

Tests
Digital rectal exam
A digital rectal exam is an exam of the lower rectum. Your health care provider uses a gloved, lubricated finger to check for any abnormal findings.

Tests
Digoxin test
A digoxin test checks how much digoxin you have in your blood. Digoxin is a type of medicine called a cardiac glycoside. It is used to treat certain heart problems, although much less often than in the...

Tests
Donath-Landsteiner test
The Donath-Landsteiner test is a blood test to detect harmful antibodies related to a rare disorder called paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria. These antibodies form and destroy red blood cells when the body...

Tests
EEG
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test to measure the electrical activity of the brain.

Tests
ELISA blood test
ELISA stands for enzyme-linked immunoassay. It is a commonly used laboratory test to detect antibodies in the blood. An antibody is a protein produced by the body's immune system when it detects harmful...

Tests
ESR
ESR stands for erythrocyte sedimentation rate. It is commonly called a "sed rate." It is a test that indirectly measures the level of certain proteins in the blood. This measurement correlates with the...

Tests
Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

Tests
Electrolytes - urine
The electrolytes - urine test measures specific chemicals called electrolytes in urine. It most often measures the levels of calcium, chloride, potassium, or sodium. electrolytes Related topics include...

Tests
Endoscopy
Endoscopy is a way of looking inside the body using a flexible tube that has a small camera and light on the end of it. This instrument is called an endoscope. Small instruments can be inserted through...

Tests
Epstein-Barr virus antibody test
Epstein-Barr virus antibody test is a blood test to detect antibodies to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), which is a cause of the infection mononucleosis. antibodies EBV

Tests
Erythropoietin test
The erythropoietin test measures the amount of a hormone called erythropoietin (EPO) in blood. The hormone tells stem cells in the bone marrow to make more red blood cells. EPO is made by cells in the kidney...

Tests
Estradiol blood test
An estradiol test measures the amount of a hormone called estradiol in the blood. Estradiol is one of the main types of estrogens.

Tests
Extremity x-ray
An extremity x-ray is an image of the hands, wrist, feet, ankle, leg, thigh, forearm humerus or upper arm, hip, shoulder or all of these areas. The term "extremity" often refers to a human limb. x-ray X...

Tests
Factor II (prothrombin) assay
The factor II assay is a blood test to measure the activity of factor II. Factor II is also known as prothrombin. This is one of the proteins in the body that helps the blood clot.

Tests
Factor IX assay
The factor IX assay is a blood test that measures the activity of factor IX. This is one of the proteins in the body that helps the blood clot.

Tests
Factor V assay
The factor V assay is a blood test to measure the activity of factor V. This is one of the proteins in the body that helps the blood clot.

Tests
Factor VII assay
The factor VII assay is a blood test to measure the activity of factor VII. This is one of the proteins in the body that helps the blood clot.

Tests
Factor VIII assay
The factor VIII assay is a blood test to measure the activity of factor VIII. This is one of the proteins in the body that helps the blood clot.

Tests
Factor X assay
The factor X assay is a blood test to measure the activity of factor X. This is one of the proteins in the body that helps the blood clot.

Tests
Factor XII assay
The factor XII assay is a blood test to measure the activity of factor XII. This is one of the proteins in the body that helps the blood clot.

Tests
Febrile/cold agglutinins
Agglutinins are antibodies that cause the red blood cells to clump together. antibodies Cold agglutinins are active at cold temperatures. Febrile (warm) agglutinins are active at normal body temperatures...

Tests
Fecal culture
A fecal culture is a lab test to find organisms in the stool (feces) that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and disease.

Tests
Fecal smear
Fecal smear is a laboratory test of a stool sample. This test is done to check for bacteria and parasites. Presence of organisms in stool shows diseases in the digestive tract.

Tests
Ferritin blood test
The ferritin blood test measures the level of ferritin in the blood. Ferritin is a protein inside your cells that stores iron. It allows your body to use the iron when it needs it. A ferritin test indirectly...

Tests
Fibrin degradation products blood test
Fibrin degradation products (FDPs) are the substances left behind when clots dissolve in the blood. A blood test can be done to measure these products.

Tests
Fibrinogen blood test
Fibrinogen is a protein produced by the liver. This protein helps stop bleeding by helping blood clots to form. A blood test can be done to tell how much fibrinogen you have in the blood.

Tests
Fibrinopeptide A blood test
Fibrinopeptide A is a substance released as blood clots in your body. A test can be done to measure the level of this substance in your blood.

Tests
Fluorescein eye stain
This is a test that uses orange dye (fluorescein) and a blue light to detect foreign bodies in the eye. This test can also detect damage to the cornea. The cornea is the outer surface of the eye.

Tests
Flushable reagent stool blood test
Flushable reagent stool blood test is an at-home test to detect invisible blood in the stool.

Tests
Folic acid - test
Folic acid is also called vitamin B9. This article discusses the test to measure the amount of folic acid in the blood. It is often done together with a vitamin B12 test of the blood.

Tests
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) blood test
The follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) blood test measures the level of FSH in blood. FSH is a hormone released by the pituitary gland, located on the underside of the brain.

Tests
Free T4 test
T4 (thyroxine) is the main hormone produced by the thyroid gland. A laboratory test can be done to measure the amount of free T4 in your blood. Free T4 is the thyroxine that is not attached to a protein...

Tests
Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) blood test
The gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) blood test measures the level of the enzyme GGT in the blood. enzyme

Tests
Glomerular filtration rate
Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is a test used to check how well the kidneys are working. Specifically, it estimates how much blood passes through the glomeruli each minute. Glomeruli are the tiny filters...

Tests
Glucose urine test
The glucose urine test measures the amount of sugar (glucose) in a urine sample. The presence of glucose in the urine is called glycosuria or glucosuria. Glucose level can also be measured in other bodily...

Tests
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase test
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is a protein that helps red blood cells work properly. The G6PD test looks at the amount (activity) of this substance in red blood cells.

Tests
Gram stain
A Gram stain is a test used to identify bacteria. It is one of the most common ways to quickly diagnose bacterial infection in the body.

Tests
Gram stain of skin lesion
A Gram stain of a skin lesion is a laboratory test that uses special stains to detect and identify bacteria in a sample from the skin. The Gram stain method is one of the most commonly used techniques to...

Tests
Gram stain of tissue biopsy
Gram stain of tissue biopsy test involves using crystal violet stain to test a sample of tissue taken from a biopsy. biopsy The Gram stain method can be used on almost any specimen. It is an excellent technique...

Tests
Granulocyte
Granulocytes are a type of white blood cell that has small granules inside them. These granules contain proteins. The specific types of granulocytes are neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils. Granulocytes...

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Growth hormone suppression test
The growth hormone suppression test determines whether growth hormone (GH) production can be suppressed by taking a specific amount of glucose (called a glucose load).

Tests
Hand x-ray
This test is an x-ray of one or both hands. x-ray

Tests
Haptoglobin blood test
The haptoglobin blood test measures the level of haptoglobin in your blood. Haptoglobin is a protein produced by the liver. It attaches to a certain type of hemoglobin in the blood. Hemoglobin is a blood...

Tests
Hematocrit
Hematocrit is a blood test that measures how much of a person's blood is made up of red blood cells. This measurement depends on the number of and size of the red blood cells. the number of and size of...

Tests
Hemoglobin
Hemoglobin is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. The hemoglobin test measures how much hemoglobin is in your blood.

Tests
Hemoglobin electrophoresis
Hemoglobin is a protein that carries oxygen in the blood. It is present inside the red blood cells. Hemoglobin electrophoresis measures the levels of the different types of this protein in the blood. Hemoglobin

Tests
Hemoglobinuria test
Hemoglobinuria test is a urine test that checks for hemoglobin in the urine.

Tests
Hepatitis virus panel
The hepatitis virus panel is a series of blood tests used to detect current or past infection by hepatitis A, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C. It can screen blood samples for more than one kind of hepatitis...

Tests
Histocompatibility antigen test
A histocompatibility antigen blood test looks at proteins called human leukocyte antigens (HLAs). These are found on the surface of almost all cells in the human body. HLAs are found in large amounts on...

Tests
Histoplasma complement fixation
Histoplasma complement fixation is a blood test that checks for infection by a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum (H capsulatum), which causes the disease histoplasmosis. Histoplasma capsulatum H capsulatum...

Tests
Histoplasma skin test
The histoplasma skin test is used to check if you have been exposed to a fungus called Histoplasma capsulatum. The fungus causes an infection called histoplasmosis. Histoplasma capsulatum. histoplasmosis

Tests
Holter monitor (24h)
A Holter monitor is a machine that continuously records the heart's rhythms. The monitor is worn for 24 to 48 hours during normal activity.

Tests
Hypochromia
Hypochromia means that the red blood cells have less color than normal when examined under a microscope. This usually occurs when there is not enough of the pigment that carries oxygen (hemoglobin) in the...

Tests
Immunoelectrophoresis - blood
Serum immunoelectrophoresis is a lab test that measures proteins called immunoglobulins in the blood. Immunoglobulins are proteins that function as antibodies, which fight infection. There are many types...

Tests
Immunofixation blood test
The immunofixation blood test is used to identify proteins called immunoglobulins in blood. Immunoglobulins are proteins that function as antibodies, which fight infection. There are many types of immunoglobulins...

Tests
Joint x-ray
This test is an x-ray of a knee, shoulder, hip, wrist, ankle, or other joint.

Tests
Ketones blood test
A ketone blood test measures the amount of ketones in the blood. Ketones can also be measured with a urine test. urine test

Tests
Kidney function tests
Kidney function tests are common lab tests used to evaluate how well the kidneys are working. Such tests include: BUN (Blood urea nitrogen) Creatinine - bloodCreatinine clearanceCreatinine - urine BUN ...

Tests
LDH isoenzyme blood test
The lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) isoenzyme test checks how much of the different types of LDH, called isoenzymes, are present in the blood. lactate dehydrogenase

Tests
LH response to GnRH blood test
LH response to GnRH is a blood test to help determine if your pituitary gland can correctly respond to gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). LH stands for luteinizing hormone.

Tests
Lactate dehydrogenase test
Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) is a protein that helps produce energy in the body. An LDH test measures the amount of LDH in the blood.

Tests
Lactic acid test
Lactic acid is mainly produced in muscle cells and red blood cells. It forms when the body breaks down carbohydrates to use for energy when oxygen levels are low. Times when your body's oxygen level might...

Tests
Lactose tolerance tests
Lactose tolerance tests measure the ability of your intestines to break down a type of sugar called lactose. This sugar is found in milk and other dairy products. If your body cannot break down this sugar...

Tests
Lead levels - blood
Blood lead level is a test that measures the amount of lead in the blood.

Tests
Lipase test
Lipase is a protein (enzyme) released by the pancreas into the small intestine. It helps the body absorb fat. This test is used to measure the amount of lipase in the blood. enzyme

Tests
Lipoprotein-a
Lipoproteins are molecules made of proteins and fat. They carry cholesterol and similar substances through the blood. proteins A blood test can be done to measure a specific type of lipoprotein called lipoprotein...

Tests
Liver function tests
Liver function tests are common tests that are used to see how well the liver is working. Tests include: AlbuminAlpha-1 antitrypsinAlkaline phosphatase (ALP)Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)Aspartate aminotransferase...

Tests
Lumbosacral spine CT
A lumbosacral spine CT is a computed tomography scan of the lower spine and surrounding tissues. computed tomography

Tests
Lumbosacral spine x-ray
A lumbosacral spine x-ray is a picture of the small bones (vertebrae) in the lower part of the spine. This area includes the lumbar region and the sacrum, the area that connects the spine to the pelvis...

Tests
Luteinizing hormone (LH) blood test
The LH blood test measures the amount of luteinizing hormone (LH) in blood. LH is a hormone released by the pituitary gland, located on the underside of the brain.

Tests
Lyme disease blood test
The Lyme disease blood test looks for antibodies in the blood to the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. The test is used to help diagnose Lyme disease. Lyme disease

Tests
Lymph node culture
Lymph node culture is a laboratory test done on a sample from a lymph node to identify germs that cause infection.

Tests
MRI
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan is an imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create pictures of the body. It does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays). Single MRI images are called...

Tests
Magnesium blood test
A serum magnesium test measures the level of magnesium in the blood.

Tests
Mammogram
A mammogram is an x-ray picture of the breasts. It is used to evaluate some breast symptoms and to find breast cancer in women with no symptoms. x-ray

Tests
Mental status testing
Mental status testing is done to check a person's thinking ability and to determine if any problems are getting better or worse. It is also called neurocognitive testing.

Tests
Methanol test
Methanol is a substance that can occur naturally in small amounts in the body. The main sources of methanol in the body include fruits, vegetables, and diet drinks that contain aspartame. Methanol is a...

Tests
Methylmalonic acid blood test
The methylmalonic acid blood test measures the amount of methylmalonic acid in the blood.

Tests
Microalbuminuria test
This test looks for a protein called albumin in a urine sample. Albumin can also be measured using a blood test or another urine test, called the urine protein test. blood test urine protein test

Tests
Mononucleosis spot test
The mononucleosis spot test looks for 2 antibodies in the blood. These antibodies appear during or after an infection with the virus that causes mononucleosis, or mono. antibodies

Tests
Mycobacterial culture
Mycobacterial culture is a test to look for the bacteria that cause tuberculosis and other infections caused by similar bacteria. tuberculosis

Tests
Myoglobin blood test
The myoglobin blood test measures the level of the protein myoglobin in the blood. Myoglobin can also be measured with a urine test. Myoglobin urine test

Tests
Myoglobin urine test
The myoglobin urine test is done to detect the presence of myoglobin in urine. Myoglobin can also be measured with a blood test. blood test

Tests
Nasopharyngeal culture
Nasopharyngeal culture is a test that examines a sample of secretions from the uppermost part of the throat, behind the nose, to detect organisms that can cause disease.

Tests
Nitroblue tetrazolium blood test
The nitroblue tetrazolium test checks if certain immune system cells can change a colorless chemical called nitroblue tetrazolium (NBT) into a deep blue color.

Tests
Ophthalmoscopy
Ophthalmoscopy is an examination of the back part of the eye (fundus), which includes the retina, optic disc, choroid, and blood vessels. retina choroid

Tests
Osmolality blood test
Osmolality blood test is a test that measures the concentration of all chemical particles found in the fluid part of blood. Osmolality in the urine can be measured with a urine test. urine test

Tests
Osmolality urine test
The osmolality urine test measures the concentration of chemicals in urine. Osmolality in the blood can be measured using a blood test. blood test

Tests
Osmotic fragility test
Osmotic fragility is a blood test to detect whether red blood cells are more likely to break down.

Tests
PBG urine test
Porphobilinogen (PBG) is one of several types of porphyrins found in your body. Porphyrins help form many important substances in the body. One of these is hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that...

Tests
PPD skin test
The PPD skin test is a method used to diagnose silent (latent) tuberculosis (TB) infection. PPD stands for purified protein derivative. tuberculosis

Tests
Pap test
The Pap test mainly checks for changes that may turn into cervical cancer. Cells scraped from the opening of the cervix are examined under a microscope. The cervix is the lower part of the uterus (womb...

Tests
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) blood test
The PTH test measures the level of parathyroid hormone in the blood. PTH stands for parathyroid hormone. It is a protein hormone released by the parathyroid gland. A laboratory test can be done to measure...

Tests
Partial thromboplastin time (PTT)
Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) is a blood test that looks at how long it takes for blood to clot. It can help tell if you have a bleeding problem or if your blood does not clot properly. This test measures...

Tests
Phosphorus blood test
The phosphorus blood test measures the amount of phosphate in the blood.

Tests
Platelet aggregation test
The platelet aggregation blood test checks how well platelets, a part of blood, clump together and cause blood to clot.

Tests
Platelet antibodies blood test
This blood test shows if you have antibodies against platelets in your blood. Platelets are particles in the blood that help the blood clot. Sometimes the body may produce antibodies that affect its own...

Tests
Platelet count
A platelet count is a lab test to measure how many platelets you have in your blood. Platelets are particles in the blood that help the blood clot. They are smaller than red or white blood cells.

Tests
Polyp biopsy
A polyp biopsy is a test that takes a sample of, or removes polyps (abnormal growths) for examination. biopsy

Tests
Porphyrins blood test
Porphyrins help form many important substances in the body. One of these is hemoglobin. This is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen in the blood. Porphyrins can be measured in the blood or...

Tests
Porphyrins urine test
Porphyrins are natural chemicals in the body that help form many important substances in the body. One of these is hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen in the blood. Porphyrins...

Tests
Potassium test
This test measures the amount of potassium in the fluid portion (serum) of the blood. Potassium (K+) helps nerves and muscles communicate. It also helps move nutrients into cells and waste products out...

Tests
Potassium urine test
The potassium urine test measures the amount of potassium in the urine.

Tests
Pregnancy test
A pregnancy test measures a hormone in the body called human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG or hCG). HCG is a hormone produced during pregnancy. It appears in the blood and urine of pregnant women as early...

Tests
Protein C blood test
Protein C is a normal substance in the body that prevents blood clotting. A blood test can be done to see how much of this protein you have in your blood. Protein C is a normal substance in the body that...

Tests
Protein S blood test
Protein S is a normal substance in your body that prevents blood clotting. A blood test can be done to see how much of this protein you have in your blood. Protein S is a normal substance in your body that...

Tests
Protein electrophoresis - serum
This lab test measures the types of protein in the fluid (serum) part of a blood sample. This fluid is called serum.

Tests
Prothrombin time (PT)
Prothrombin time (PT) is a blood test that measures the time it takes for the liquid portion (plasma) of your blood to clot. It measures the function of a part of the clotting system. A related blood test...

Tests
Pulse
The pulse is the number of heartbeats per minute.

Tests
Pyruvate kinase blood test
The pyruvate kinase test measures the level of the enzyme pyruvate kinase in the blood. Pyruvate kinase is an enzyme found in red blood cells. It helps change sugar in the blood (glucose) to energy when...

Tests
Quantitative nephelometry test
Quantitative nephelometry is a lab test to quickly and accurately measure levels of certain proteins called immunoglobulins in the blood. Immunoglobulins are antibodies that help fight infection. antibodies...

Tests
RBC count
An RBC count is a blood test that measures how many red blood cells (RBCs) you have. RBCs contain hemoglobin, a protein which carries oxygen. How much oxygen your body tissues get depends on how many RBCs...

Tests
RBC indices
Red blood cell (RBC) indices are part of the complete blood count (CBC) test. They are used to help diagnose the cause of anemia, a condition in which there are too few red blood cells. complete blood count...

Tests
RBC urine test
The RBC urine test measures the number of red blood cells in a urine sample.

Tests
RPR test
RPR (rapid plasma reagin) is a screening test for syphilis. It measures substances (proteins) called antibodies that are present in the blood of people who may have the disease. syphilis antibodies

Tests
Rectal culture
Rectal culture is a lab test to identify bacteria and other germs in the rectum that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms and disease.

Tests
Renin blood test
The renin test measures the level of renin in blood.

Tests
Reticulocyte count
Reticulocytes are slightly immature red blood cells. A reticulocyte count is a blood test that measures the amount of these cells in the blood.

Tests
Rotavirus antigen test
The rotavirus antigen test detects rotavirus in the feces. This is the most common cause of infectious diarrhea in children. diarrhea

Tests
Schilling test
The Schilling test can determine whether the body absorbs vitamin B12 normally. It helps assess the cause of vitamin B12 deficiency. This test is rarely, if ever, done today. vitamin B12

Tests
Screening and diagnosis for HIV
In general, testing for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a 2-step process that involves a screening test and follow-up tests often called confirmatory tests. human immunodeficiency virus

Tests
Semen analysis
Semen analysis measures the amount and quality of a man's semen and sperm. Semen is the thick, white fluid released during ejaculation that contains sperm. This test is sometimes called a sperm count.

Tests
Sensitivity analysis
Sensitivity analysis determines the effectiveness of antibiotics against microorganisms (germs) such as bacteria that have been isolated from cultures. Sensitivity analysis may be done along with: Blood...

Tests
Serology for brucellosis
Serology for brucellosis is a blood test to look for the presence of antibodies against brucella. These are the bacteria that cause the disease brucellosis. antibodies brucellosis

Tests
Serotonin blood test
The serotonin test measures the level of serotonin in the blood.

Tests
Serum free hemoglobin test
Serum free hemoglobin is a blood test that measures the level of free hemoglobin in the liquid part of the blood (the serum). Free hemoglobin is the hemoglobin outside of the red blood cells. Most of the...

Tests
Serum globulin electrophoresis
The serum globulin electrophoresis test measures the levels of proteins called globulins in the fluid part of a blood sample. This fluid is called serum.

Tests
Serum iron test
A serum iron test measures how much iron is in your blood.

Tests
Serum progesterone
Serum progesterone is a test to measure the amount of progesterone in the blood. Progesterone is a hormone produced mainly in the ovaries. Progesterone plays a key role in pregnancy. It is produced after...

Tests
Sickle cell test
The sickle cell test looks for the abnormal hemoglobin in the blood that causes the disorder sickle cell disease. hemoglobin sickle cell disease

Tests
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a procedure used to see inside the sigmoid colon and rectum. The sigmoid colon is the area of the large intestine nearest to the rectum.

Tests
Skin lesion KOH exam
The skin lesion KOH exam is a test to diagnose a fungal infection of the skin. fungal infection of the skin

Tests
Skin lesion aspiration
Skin lesion aspiration is the withdrawal of fluid from a skin lesion (sore).

Tests
Skin or nail culture
A skin or nail culture is a laboratory test to look for and identify germs that cause problems with the skin or nails. It is called a mucosal culture if the sample involves the mucous membranes.

Tests
Sodium blood test
The sodium blood test measures the concentration of sodium in the blood. Sodium can also be measured using a urine test. urine test

Tests
Sodium urine test
The sodium urine test measures the amount of sodium the urine. Sodium can also be measured in a blood sample. blood sample

Tests
Sputum Gram stain
A sputum Gram stain is a laboratory test used to detect bacteria in a sputum sample. Sputum is the material that comes up from your air passages when you cough very deeply. The Gram stain method is one...

Tests
Sputum stain for mycobacteria
Sputum stain for mycobacteria is a test to check for a type of bacteria that cause tuberculosis and other infections. tuberculosis

Tests
Stool Gram stain
A stool Gram stain is a laboratory test that uses different chemical stains to detect and identify bacteria in a stool sample. The Gram stain method is sometimes used to quickly diagnose bacterial infections...

Tests
Stool guaiac test
The stool guaiac test looks for hidden (occult) blood in a stool sample. It can find blood even if you cannot see it yourself. It is the most common type of fecal occult blood test (FOBT). Guaiac is a substance...

Tests
Streptococcal screen
A streptococcal screen is a test to detect group A streptococcus. This type of bacteria is the most common cause of strep throat. strep throat

Tests
Sugar-water hemolysis test
The sugar-water hemolysis test is a blood test to detect fragile red blood cells. It does this by testing how well they withstand swelling in a sugar (sucrose) solution.

Tests
Sweat electrolytes test
Sweat electrolytes is a test that measures the level of chloride in sweat. Sweat chloride test is the standard test used to diagnose cystic fibrosis (CF).

Tests
T-cell count
A T-cell count measures the number of T cells in the blood. Your health care provider may order this test if you have signs of a weak immune system, such as due to having HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS

Tests
T3 test
Triiodothyronine (T3) is a thyroid hormone. It plays an important role in the body's control of metabolism (the many processes that control the rate of activity in cells and tissues). A laboratory test...

Tests
TBG blood test
The TBG blood test measures the level of a protein that moves thyroid hormone throughout your body. This protein is called thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG).

Tests
TSH test
A TSH test measures the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland. It prompts the thyroid gland to make and release thyroid hormones into the blood...

Tests
Temperature measurement
The measurement of body temperature can help detect illness. It can also monitor whether or not treatment is working. A high temperature is a fever. fever

Tests
Testicular self-exam
Testicular self-exam is an examination of the testicles that you do on yourself.

Tests
Testosterone
A testosterone test measures the amount of the male hormone, testosterone, in the blood. Both men and women produce this hormone. The test described in this article measures the total amount of testosterone...

Tests
Tests for H pylori
Helicobacter pylori (H pylori) is the bacteria (germ) responsible for most stomach (gastric) and duodenal ulcers and many cases of stomach inflammation (chronic gastritis). Helicobacter pylori H pylori...

Tests
Therapeutic drug levels
Therapeutic drug levels are lab tests to look for the amount of a drug or medicine in the blood.

Tests
Throat swab culture
A throat swab culture is a laboratory test that is done to identify germs that may cause infection in the throat. It is most often used to diagnose strep throat. strep throat

Tests
Thyroid function tests
Thyroid function tests are used to check whether your thyroid is working normally. The most common thyroid function tests are: Free T4 (the main thyroid hormone in your blood -- a precursor for T3)TSH ...

Tests
Total iron binding capacity
Total iron binding capacity (TIBC) is a blood test to see if you have too much or too little iron in your blood. Iron moves through the blood attached to a protein called transferrin. This test helps your...

Tests
Total protein
The total protein test measures the total amount of two classes of proteins found in the fluid portion of your blood. These are albumin and globulin. Proteins are important parts of all cells and tissues...

Tests
Toxoplasma blood test
The toxoplasma blood test looks for antibodies in the blood to a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. antibodies Toxoplasma gondii

Tests
Transvaginal ultrasound
Transvaginal ultrasound is a test used to look at a woman's uterus, ovaries, tubes, cervix and pelvic area. cervix Transvaginal means across or through the vagina. The ultrasound probe will be placed inside...

Tests
Triglyceride level
The triglyceride level is a blood test to measure the amount of triglycerides in your blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat. Your body makes some triglycerides. Triglycerides also come from the food you...

Tests
Tularemia blood test
Tularemia blood test checks for infection caused by bacteria called Francisella tularensis (F tularensis). The bacteria causes the disease tularemia. Francisella tularensis (F tularensis). tularemia

Tests
Tympanometry
Tympanometry is a test used to detect problems in the middle ear.

Tests
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to make images of organs and structures inside the body.

Tests
Urea nitrogen urine test
Urine urea nitrogen is a test that measures the amount of urea in the urine. Urea is a waste product resulting from the breakdown of protein in the body.

Tests
Uric acid - blood
Uric acid is a chemical created when the body breaks down substances called purines. Purines are normally produced in the body and are also found in some foods and drinks. Foods with high content of purines...

Tests
Uric acid urine test
The uric acid urine test measures the level of uric acid in the urine. The uric acid blood level can be checked using a blood test.

Tests
Urinalysis
Urinalysis is the physical, chemical, and microscopic examination of urine. It involves a number of tests to detect and measure various compounds that pass through the urine.

Tests
Urine concentration test
A urine concentration test measures the ability of the kidneys to conserve or excrete water.

Tests
Urine culture
A urine culture is a lab test to check for bacteria or other germs in a urine sample. It can be used to check for a urinary tract infection in adults and children. adults children

Tests
Urine culture - catheterized specimen
Catheterized specimen urine culture is a laboratory test that looks for germs in a urine sample.

Tests
Urine drug screen
A urine drug screen is used to detect illegal and some prescription drugs in the urine.

Tests
Urine pH test
A urine pH test measures the level of acid in urine.

Tests
Urine protein dipstick test
The urine protein dipstick test measures the presence of all proteins, including albumin, in a urine sample. Albumin and protein can also be measured using a blood test. blood test

Tests
Urine specific gravity test
Urine specific gravity is a laboratory test that shows the total concentration of all chemical particles in the urine.

Tests
VLDL test
VLDL stands for very low density lipoprotein. Lipoproteins are made up of cholesterol, triglycerides, and proteins. They move cholesterol, triglycerides, and other lipids (fats) around the body. cholesterol...

Tests
Vaginitis test - wet mount
The vaginitis wet mount test is a test to detect an infection of the vagina.

Tests
Venipuncture
Venipuncture is the collection of blood from a vein. It is most often done for laboratory testing.

Tests
Venogram - leg
Venography for legs is a test used to see the veins in the leg. X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation, like visible light is. However, these rays are of higher energy. Therefore, they can go through...

Tests
Visual acuity test
The visual acuity test is used to determine the smallest letters you can read on a standardized chart (Snellen chart) or a card held 20 feet (6 meters) away. Special charts are used when testing at distances...

Tests
Vitamin A blood test
The vitamin A test measures the level of vitamin A in the blood.

Tests
Vitamin B12 level
The vitamin B12 level is a blood test that measures how much vitamin B12 is in your blood. vitamin B12

Tests
WBC count
A WBC count is a blood test to measure the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the blood. It is a part of a complete blood count (CBC). WBCs are also called leukocytes. They help fight infections. There...

Tests
Wood lamp examination
A Wood lamp examination is a test that uses ultraviolet (UV) light to look at the skin closely.

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results for Internal Medicine that begins with

ALL # A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Special Topics
10 ways to cut 500 calories a day
Weight loss - 500 calories; Overweight - 500 calories; Obesity - 500 calories; Diet - 500 calories

Special Topics
12 healthy snacks with 200 calories or less
Nibbles; Appetizers; Healthy eating - healthy snacks; Weight loss - healthy snacks; Healthy diet - healthy snacks; Wellness - healthy snacks

Tests
24-hour urine protein
A 24-hour urine protein measures the amount of protein released in urine over a 24-hour period.

Special Topics
A guide to herbal remedies

Tests
ACE blood test
The ACE test measures the level of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) in the blood. enzyme

Self-Care Instructions
ACE inhibitors
Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors

Symptoms
Abdomen - swollen
A swollen abdomen is when your belly area is bigger than usual.

Symptoms
Abdominal bloating
Abdominal bloating is a condition in which the belly (abdomen) feels full and tight. Your belly may look swollen (distended).

Symptoms
Abdominal mass
An abdominal mass is swelling in one part of the belly area (abdomen).

Symptoms
Abdominal pain
Abdominal pain is pain that you feel anywhere between your chest and groin. This is often referred to as the stomach region or belly.

Symptoms
Abdominal rigidity
Abdominal rigidity is stiffness of the muscles in the belly area, which can be felt when touched or pressed.

Symptoms
Abdominal sounds
Abdominal sounds are the noises made by the intestines.

Tests
Abdominal wall fat pad biopsy
An abdominal wall fat pad biopsy is the removal of a small part of the abdominal wall fat pad for laboratory study of the tissue. biopsy

Diseases & Conditions
Acne
Acne is a skin condition that causes pimples or "zits. " Whiteheads, blackheads, and red, inflamed patches of skin (such as cysts) may develop.

Diseases & Conditions
Actinomycosis
Actinomycosis is a long-term (chronic) bacterial infection that commonly affects the face and neck.

Special Topics
Acute
Acute means sudden. Acute symptoms appear, change, or worsen rapidly. It is the opposite of chronic. chronic

Diseases & Conditions
Acute cholecystitis
Acute cholecystitis is sudden swelling and irritation of the gallbladder. It causes severe belly pain.

Diseases & Conditions
Acute pancreatitis
Acute pancreatitis is sudden swelling and inflammation of the pancreas.

Special Topics
After a fall in the hospital
Hospital safety - falls; Patient safety - falls

Special Topics
Aging changes in hair and nails

Special Topics
Aging changes in hormone production

Special Topics
Aging changes in immunity

Special Topics
Aging changes in organs, tissue and cells

Special Topics
Aging changes in skin
Aging changes in the skin are a group of common conditions and developments that occur as people grow older.

Special Topics
Aging changes in sleep

Self-Care Instructions
Aging changes in teeth and gums
Dental hygiene - aging; Teeth - aging; Oral hygiene - aging

Special Topics
Aging changes in the bones - muscles - joints

Special Topics
Aging changes in the breast

Special Topics
Aging changes in the face

Special Topics
Aging changes in the heart and blood vessels

Special Topics
Aging changes in the kidneys and bladder

Special Topics
Aging changes in the lungs

Special Topics
Aging changes in the nervous system

Special Topics
Aging changes in vital signs

Special Topics
Aging spots - should you be concerned?

Tests
Alanine transaminase (ALT) blood test
The alanine transaminase (ALT) blood test measures the level of the enzyme ALT in the blood. enzyme

Special Topics
Alcohol use and safe drinking
Alcohol use involves drinking beer, wine, or hard liquor.

Special Topics
Alcohol use disorder - resources

In-depth Report
Alcohol use disorders - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of alcohol use disorder.

Diseases & Conditions
Alcohol withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal refers to symptoms that may occur when a person who has been drinking too much alcohol on a regular basis suddenly stops drinking alcohol.

Diseases & Conditions
Alcoholic liver disease
Alcoholic liver disease is damage to the liver and its function due to alcohol abuse. alcohol abuse

Injury
Allergic reactions
Allergic reactions are sensitivities to substances called allergens that come into contact with the skin, nose, eyes, respiratory tract, and gastrointestinal tract. They can be breathed into the lungs,...

In-depth Report
Allergic rhinitis - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of common nasal allergies. Nasal allergies can be associated with sinus inflammation and congestion; so the term 'allergic rhinosinusitis...

Self-Care Instructions
Allergic rhinitis - self-care
Hay fever - self-care; Seasonal rhinitis - self-care; Allergies - allergic rhinitis - self-care

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Allergic rhinitis - what to ask your doctor - adult
What to ask your doctor about allergic rhinitis - adult; Hay fever - what to ask your doctor - adult; Allergies - what to ask your doctor - adult; Allergic conjunctivitis - what to ask your doctor

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Allergic rhinitis - what to ask your doctor - child
What to ask your doctor about allergic rhinitis - child; Hay fever - what to ask your doctor - child; Allergies - what to ask your doctor - child

Diseases & Conditions
Allergies
An allergy is an immune response or reaction to substances that are usually not harmful. immune response

Self-Care Instructions
Allergies, asthma, and dust
Reactive airway disease - dust; Bronchial asthma - dust; Triggers - dust

Self-Care Instructions
Allergies, asthma, and molds
Reactive airway - mold; Bronchial asthma - mold; Triggers - mold; Allergic rhinitis - pollen

Self-Care Instructions
Allergies, asthma, and pollen
Reactive airway - pollen; Bronchial asthma - pollen; Triggers - pollen; Allergic rhinitis - pollen

Discharge Instructions
Allergy shots
Allergy injections; Allergen immunotherapy

Diseases & Conditions
Alopecia areata
Alopecia areata is a condition that causes round patches of hair loss. It can lead to total hair loss.

In-depth Report
Alzheimer disease - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of Alzheimer disease.

Diseases & Conditions
Amebiasis
Amebiasis is an infection of the intestines. It is caused by the microscopic parasite Entamoeba histolytica. Entamoeba histolytica

Diseases & Conditions
Amebic liver abscess
Amebic liver abscess is a collection of pus in the liver in response to an intestinal parasite called Entamoeba histolytica. Entamoeba histolytica

Tests
Ammonia blood test
The ammonia test measures the level of ammonia in a blood sample.

Diseases & Conditions
Anal fissure
An anal fissure is a small split or tear in the thin moist tissue (mucosa) lining the lower rectum (anus). mucosa

In-depth Report
Anemia - InDepth
An in-depth report on the types, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of anemia.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Angina - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about angina and heart disease; Coronary artery disease - what to ask your doctor

Self-Care Instructions
Angina - when you have chest pain
Acute coronary syndrome - chest pain; Coronary artery disease - chest pain; CAD - chest pain; Coronary heart disease - chest pain; ACS - chest pain; Heart attack - chest pain; Myocardial infarction - chest...

Symptoms
Ankle pain
Ankle pain involves any discomfort in one or both ankles.

Self-Care Instructions
Ankle sprain - aftercare
Lateral ankle sprain - aftercare; Medial ankle sprain - aftercare; Medial ankle injury - aftercare; Ankle syndesmosis sprain - aftercare; Syndesmosis injury - aftercare; ATFL injury - aftercare; CFL injury...

Special Topics
Anterior
Anterior means "in front of" or "the front surface of." It usually refers to the front side of the body. For example, your knee caps are on the anterior part of your body.

Injury
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury
An anterior cruciate ligament injury is the over-stretching or tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in the knee. A tear may be partial or complete.

Special Topics
Antibiotic resistance
Antimicrobials - resistance; Antimicrobial agents - resistance; Drug-resistant bacteria

Tests
Antibody titer blood test
Antibody titer is a laboratory test that measures the level of antibodies in a blood sample. antibodies

Self-Care Instructions
Antihistamines for allergies
Allergic rhinitis - antihistamine; Hives - antihistamine; Allergic conjunctivitis - antihistamine; Urticaria - antihistamine; Dermatitis - antihistamine; Eczema - antihistamine

Self-Care Instructions
Antiplatelet drugs - P2Y12 inhibitors
Blood thinners - clopidogrel; Antiplatelet therapy - clopidogrel; Thienopyridines

Tests
Antithrombin III blood test
Antithrombin III (AT III) is a protein that helps control blood clotting. A blood test can determine the amount of AT III present in your body.

In-depth Report
Anxiety disorders - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of anxiety.

Diseases & Conditions
Appendicitis
Appendicitis is a condition in which your appendix gets inflamed. The appendix is a small pouch attached to the end of the large intestine.

Symptoms
Appetite - decreased
A decreased appetite is when your desire to eat is reduced. The medical term for a loss of appetite is anorexia.

Symptoms
Appetite - increased
Increased appetite means you have an excess desire for food.

Special Topics
Are you getting too much exercise?

Symptoms
Armpit lump
An armpit lump is a swelling or bump under the arm. A lump in the armpit can have many causes. These include swollen lymph nodes, infections, or cysts.

Tests
Arterial stick
An arterial stick is the collection of blood from an artery for laboratory testing.

Diseases & Conditions
Arthritis
Arthritis is inflammation or degeneration of one or more joints. A joint is the area where 2 bones meet. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis.

Special Topics
Arthritis - resources

Diseases & Conditions
Ascariasis
Ascariasis is an infection with the parasitic roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides. Ascaris lumbricoides

Diseases & Conditions
Ascites
Ascites is the build-up of fluid in the space between the lining of the abdomen and abdominal organs.

Tests
Aspartate aminotransferase (AST) blood test
The aspartate aminotransferase (AST) blood test measures the level of the enzyme AST in the blood. enzyme

Diseases & Conditions
Aspergillosis
Aspergillosis is an infection or allergic response due to the aspergillus fungus. allergic response

Tests
Aspergillosis precipitin
Aspergillosis precipitin is a laboratory test to detect antibodies in the blood resulting from exposure to the fungus aspergillus. aspergillus

Self-Care Instructions
Aspirin and heart disease
Blood thinners - aspirin; Antiplatelet therapy - aspirin

Self-Care Instructions
Asthma - control drugs
Asthma - inhaled corticosteroids; Asthma - long-acting beta-agonists; Asthma - leukotriene modifiers; Asthma - cromolyn; Bronchial asthma - control drugs; Wheezing - control drugs; Reactive airway disease...

Self-Care Instructions
Asthma - quick-relief drugs
Asthma - quick-relief drugs - short-acting beta-agonists; Asthma - quick-relief drugs - bronchodilators; Asthma - quick-relief drugs - oral steroids; Asthma - rescue drugs; Bronchial asthma - quick relief...

In-depth Report
Asthma in adults - InDepth
An in-depth report on how asthma is diagnosed, treated, and managed in adults.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Asthma in children - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about asthma - child

Diseases & Conditions
Athlete's foot
Athlete's foot is an infection of the feet caused by fungus. The medical term is tinea pedis or ringworm of the foot.

Self-Care Instructions
Atopic dermatitis - self-care
Eczema - self-care

Special Topics
Auscultation
Auscultation is listening to the sounds of the body during a physical examination. physical examination

Diseases & Conditions
Avian influenza
Avian influenza A viruses cause the flu infection in birds. The viruses that cause the disease in birds can change (mutate) so it can spread to humans. flu

Tests
B and T cell screen
B and T cell screen is a laboratory test to determine the amount of B and T lymphocytes in the blood.

Tests
BUN - blood test
BUN stands for blood urea nitrogen. Urea nitrogen is what forms when protein breaks down. A test can be done to measure the amount of urea nitrogen in the blood.

Self-Care Instructions
Back pain - returning to work
Nonspecific back pain - work; Backache - work; Lumbar pain - work; Pain - back - chronic; Low back pain - work; Lumbago - work

In-depth Report
Back pain and sciatica - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of back pain, including sciatica.

Self-Care Instructions
Back pain and sports
Bicycling - back pain; Golf - back pain; Tennis - back pain; Running - back pain; Weightlifting - back pain; Lumbar pain - sports; Sciatica - sports; Low back pain - sports

Diseases & Conditions
Bacterial gastroenteritis
Bacterial gastroenteritis occurs when there is an infection of your stomach and intestines. This is due to bacteria.

Tests
Basic metabolic panel
The basic metabolic panel is a group of blood tests that provides information about your body's metabolism. metabolism

Self-Care Instructions
Bathing a patient in bed
Bed bath; Sponge bath

Self-Care Instructions
Bathroom safety for adults
Older adult bathroom safety; Falls - bathroom safety

Self-Care Instructions
Being active after your heart attack
Heart attack - activity; MI - activity; Myocardial infarction - activity; Cardiac rehabilitation - activity; ACS - activity; NSTEMI - activity; Acute coronary syndrome activity

Self-Care Instructions
Being active when you have heart disease
Heart disease - activity; CAD - activity; Coronary artery disease - activity; Angina - activity

Self-Care Instructions
Benign positional vertigo - aftercare
Vertigo - positional - aftercare; Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo - aftercare; BPPV - aftercare; Dizziness - positional vertigo

In-depth Report
Benign prostatic hyperplasia - InDepth
An in-depth report about the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Diseases & Conditions
Beriberi
Beriberi is a disease in which the body does not have enough thiamine (vitamin B1). thiamine

Tests
Beta-carotene blood test
The beta-carotene test measures the level of beta-carotene in the blood.

Self-Care Instructions
Bicycle safety

Self-Care Instructions
Bile acid sequestrants for cholesterol
Antilipemic agent; Bile acid resins; Colestipol (Colestid); Cholestyramine (Locholest, Prevalite, and Questran); Colesevelam (Welchol)

Diseases & Conditions
Bile duct obstruction
Bile duct obstruction is a blockage in the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the gallbladder and small intestine.

Symptoms
Binge eating disorder
Binge eating disorder is an eating disorder in which a person regularly eats unusually large amounts of food. During binge eating, the person also feels a loss of control and is not able to stop eating...

Special Topics
Biofeedback
Biofeedback is a technique that measures bodily functions and gives you information about them in order to help train you to control them.

In-depth Report
Birth control options for women - InDepth
An in-depth report on the birth control options available to women.

Symptoms
Black or tarry stools
Black or tarry stools with a foul smell are a sign of a problem in the upper digestive tract. It most often indicates that there is bleeding in the stomach, small intestine, or right side of the colon....

Diseases & Conditions
Bladder stones
Bladder stones are hard buildups of minerals. These form in the urinary bladder.

Diseases & Conditions
Blastomycosis
Blastomycosis is an infection caused by breathing in the Blastomyces dermatitidis fungus. The fungus is found in decaying wood and soil. Blastomyces dermatitidis

Injury
Bleeding
Bleeding is the loss of blood. Bleeding may be: Inside the body (internal)Outside the body (external) Inside the body (internal) Outside the body (external) Bleeding may occur: Inside the body when blood...

Symptoms
Bleeding into the skin
Bleeding into the skin can occur from broken blood vessels that form tiny red dots (called petechiae). Blood also can collect under the tissue in larger flat areas (called purpura), or in a very large bruised...

Tests
Bleeding time
Bleeding time is a medical test that measures how fast small blood vessels in the skin stop bleeding. Because it is difficult to perform correctly, it is rarely used today.

Tests
Blood culture
A blood culture is a laboratory test to check for bacteria or other germs in a blood sample.

Tests
Blood smear
A blood smear is a blood test that gives information about the number and shape of blood cells. It is often done as part of or along with a complete blood count (CBC).

Self-Care Instructions
Blood transfusions

Symptoms
Bone pain or tenderness
Bone pain or tenderness is aching or other discomfort in one or more bones.

Symptoms
Bowel incontinence
Bowel incontinence is the loss of bowel control, causing you to unexpectedly pass stool. This can range from sometimes leaking a small amount of stool and passing gas, to not being able to control bowel...

Special Topics
Bowel retraining
A program of bowel retraining, Kegel exercises, or biofeedback therapy may be used by people to help improve their bowel movements. Kegel exercises biofeedback

Diseases & Conditions
Brain abscess
A brain abscess is a collection of pus, immune cells, and other material in the brain, caused by a bacterial or fungal infection.

Discharge Instructions
Brain injury - discharge
Head injury - discharge; Head trauma - discharge; Contusion - discharge; Shaken baby syndrome - discharge

Special Topics
Break the bonds of emotional eating
Obesity - emotional eating; Overweight - emotional eating; Diet - emotional eating; Weight loss - emotional meaning

Special Topics
Breast cancer screening
Mammogram - breast cancer screening; Breast exam - breast cancer screening; MRI - breast cancer screening

Symptoms
Breast enlargement in males
When abnormal breast tissue develops in males, it is called gynecomastia. It is important to find out if the excess growth is breast tissue and not excess fat tissue (lipomastia).

Diseases & Conditions
Breast infection
A breast infection is an infection in the tissue of the breast.

Symptoms
Breast lump
A breast lump is swelling, growth, or mass in the breast. Breast lumps in both men and women raise concern for breast cancer, even though most lumps are not cancer. breast cancer

Symptoms
Breast pain
Breast pain is any discomfort or pain in the breast.

Symptoms
Breath sounds
Breath sounds are the noises produced by the structures of the lungs during breathing.

Symptoms
Breathing difficulty - lying down
Breathing difficulty while lying down is an abnormal condition in which a person has a problem breathing normally when lying flat. The head must be raised by sitting or standing to be able to breathe deeply...

Injury
Broken bone
If more pressure is put on a bone than it can stand, it will split or break. A break of any size is called a fracture. If the broken bone punctures the skin, it is called an open fracture (compound fracture...

Self-Care Instructions
Broken collarbone - aftercare
Collarbone fracture - aftercare; Clavicle fracture - aftercare; Clavicular fracture

Self-Care Instructions
Broken toe - self-care
Fractured toe - self-care; Broken bone - toe - self-care; Fracture - toe - self-care; Fracture phalanx - toe

Diseases & Conditions
Brucellosis
Brucellosis is a bacterial infection that occurs from contact with animals carrying brucella bacteria.

Injury
Bruise
A bruise is an area of skin discoloration. A bruise occurs when small blood vessels break and leak their contents into the soft tissue beneath the skin.

Tests
Buccal smear
A buccal (pronounced "buckle") smear is the painless removal of a sample of cells from the inside of your mouth (cheek) for study.

Symptoms
Bullae
Bullae are large blisters on the skin that are filled with clear fluid. Many different skin conditions can cause bullae to form. They can be caused by infection or inflammation of the skin. blisters

Diseases & Conditions
Bullous pemphigoid
Bullous pemphigoid is a skin disorder characterized by blisters. blisters

Diseases & Conditions
Bunions
A bunion forms when your big toe points outward toward your second toe. This causes a bump to appear on the inside edge of your toe.

Injury
Burns
Burns commonly occur by direct or indirect contact with heat, electric current, radiation, or chemical agents. Burns can lead to cell death, which can require hospitalization and can be fatal.

Diseases & Conditions
Bursitis
Bursitis is the swelling and irritation of a bursa. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between muscles, tendons, and bones.

Self-Care Instructions
Butter, margarine, and cooking oils
Cholesterol - butter; Hyperlipidemia - butter; CAD - butter; Coronary artery disease - butter; Heart disease - butter; Prevention - butter; Cardiovascular disease - butter; Peripheral artery disease - butter...

Tests
CMV blood test
The CMV blood test determines the presence of substances (proteins) called antibodies to a virus called cytomegalovirus (CMV) in the blood. antibodies

Diseases & Conditions
CMV pneumonia
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) pneumonia is a viral infection of the lungs that can occur in people who have a suppressed immune system.

Diseases & Conditions
CMV retinitis
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis is a viral infection of the retina of the eye resulting in inflammation.

Self-Care Instructions
COPD - control drugs
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - control drugs; Bronchodilators - COPD - control drugs; Beta agonist inhaler - COPD - control drugs; Anticholinergic inhaler - COPD - control drugs; Long-acting inhaler...

Special Topics
COPD - managing stress and your mood
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - emotions; Stress - COPD; Depression - COPD

Self-Care Instructions
COPD - quick-relief drugs
COPD - quick-relief drugs; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - control drugs; Chronic obstructive airways disease - quick-relief drugs; Chronic obstructive lung disease - quick-relief drugs; Chronic...

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
COPD - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about COPD; Emphysema - what to ask your doctor; Chronic bronchitis - what to ask your doctor; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - what to ask your doctor

Special Topics
COPD and other health problems
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - comorbidities; COPD - comorbidities

Self-Care Instructions
COPD flare-ups
COPD exacerbation; Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbation; Emphysema exacerbation; Chronic bronchitis exacerbation

Special Topics
COVID-19 and face masks
COVID-19 - cloth face coverings; COVID-19 - face coverings; Coronavirus - face masks

Symptoms
COVID-19 symptoms
COVID-19 is a highly infectious respiratory illness caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2. COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe. Symptoms may include: FeverChillsCoughShortness of breath or difficulty...

Self-Care Instructions
COVID-19 vaccines - what to expect

Special Topics
COVID-19 vaccines for children ages 6 months and older
COVID-19 vaccines are used to prepare the body's immune system to protect against COVID-19.

Tests
CPK isoenzymes test
The creatine phosphokinase (CPK) isoenzymes test measures the different forms of CPK in the blood. CPK is an enzyme found mainly in the heart, brain, and skeletal muscle.

Nutrition
Caffeine in the diet
Caffeine is a substance that is found in certain plants. It can also be man-made and added to foods. It is a central nervous system stimulant and a diuretic (substance that helps rid your body of fluids...

Special Topics
Calcification
Calcification is a process in which calcium builds up in body tissue, causing the tissue to harden. This can be a normal or abnormal process.

Special Topics
Calcium and bones

Nutrition
Calcium in diet
Calcium is the most plentiful mineral found in the human body. The teeth and bones contain the most calcium. Nerve cells, body tissues, blood, and other body fluids contain the rest of the calcium.

Self-Care Instructions
Calcium, vitamin D, and your bones
Osteoporosis - calcium; Osteoporosis - low bone density

Special Topics
Calorie count - Alcoholic beverages
Weight loss - calorie count - alcoholic beverages; Overweight - calorie count - alcoholic beverages; Obesity - calorie count - alcoholic beverages

Special Topics
Calorie count - fast food
Weight-loss calorie count fast food; Obesity - calorie count fast food; Overweight - calorie count fast food; Healthy diet - calorie count fast food

Special Topics
Calorie count - sodas and energy drinks
Weight-loss calorie count sodas; Obesity - calorie sodas; Overweight - calorie count sodas; Healthy diet - calorie count sodas

Diseases & Conditions
Campylobacter infection
Campylobacter infection occurs in the small intestine from bacteria called Campylobacter jejuni. It is a type of food poisoning. Campylobacter jejuni

Special Topics
Can you boost your metabolism?
Weight-loss boost metabolism; Obesity - boost metabolism; Overweight - boost metabolism

Self-Care Instructions
Can't sleep? Try these tips

Diseases & Conditions
Cancer
Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body. Cancerous cells are also called malignant cells.

Tests
Capillary nail refill test
The capillary nail refill test is a quick test done on the nail beds. It is used to monitor dehydration and the amount of blood flow to tissue. dehydration

Nutrition
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are one of the main nutrients in our diet. They help provide energy for our body. There are three main types of carbohydrates found in foods: sugars, starches, and fiber. fiber People with...

Self-Care Instructions
Cardiac rehabilitation
Cardiac rehab; Heart attack - cardiac rehab; Coronary heart disease - cardiac rehab; Coronary artery disease - cardiac rehab; Angina - cardiac rehab; Heart failure - cardiac rehab

Self-Care Instructions
Caregiving - medication management
Caregiving - managing medicines

Self-Care Instructions
Caregiving - resources - older adults

Self-Care Instructions
Caregiving - taking your loved one to the doctor

Self-Care Instructions
Caring for muscle spasticity or spasms
High muscle tone - care; Increased muscle tension - care; Upper motor neuron syndrome - care; Muscle stiffness - care

In-depth Report
Carpal tunnel syndrome - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of carpal tunnel syndrome.

Diseases & Conditions
Cat-scratch disease
Cat-scratch disease is an infection with bartonella bacteria. It is transmitted by cat scratches, cat bites, or flea bites.

Diseases & Conditions
Cavernous sinus thrombosis
Cavernous sinus thrombosis is a blood clot in an area at the base of the brain. blood clot

Nutrition
Celiac disease - nutritional considerations
Celiac disease is an immune disorder passed down through families. Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, rye, or sometimes oats. It may also be found in some medicines. When a person with celiac disease...

Discharge Instructions
Central venous catheters - ports
Central venous catheter - subcutaneous; Port-a-Cath; InfusaPort; PasPort; Subclavian port; Medi - port; Central venous line - port

Tests
Ceruloplasmin blood test
The ceruloplasmin test measures the level of the copper-containing protein ceruloplasmin in the blood.

Self-Care Instructions
Cervical cancer - screening and prevention
Cancer cervix - screening; HPV - cervical cancer screening; Dysplasia - cervical cancer screening; Cervical cancer - HPV vaccine

Special Topics
Chafing
Chafing is skin irritation that occurs where skin rubs against skin, clothing, or other material.

Diseases & Conditions
Chagas disease
Chagas disease is an illness caused by tiny parasites and spread by insects. The disease is common in South and Central America.

Diseases & Conditions
Chalazion
A chalazion is a small bump in the eyelid caused by a blockage of a tiny oil gland.

Self-Care Instructions
Changing your ostomy pouch
Ostomy - pouch change; Colostomy - pouch change

Self-Care Instructions
Changing your sleep habits
Insomnia - sleep habits; Sleep disorder - sleep habits; Problems falling asleep; Sleep hygiene

Special Topics
Chapped hands

Special Topics
Chapped lips

Diseases & Conditions
Cherry angioma
A cherry angioma is a noncancerous (benign) skin growth made up of blood vessels.

Symptoms
Chest pain
Chest pain is discomfort or pain that you feel anywhere along the front of your body between your neck and upper abdomen.

Tests
Chest x-ray
A chest x-ray is an x-ray of the chest, lungs, heart, large arteries, ribs, and diaphragm. x-ray

Special Topics
Chicken soup and sickness

Special Topics
Chikungunya virus
Chikungunya virus infection; Chikungunya

Symptoms
Chills
Chills refers to feeling cold after being in a cold environment. The word can also refer to an episode of shivering along with paleness and feeling cold.

Discharge Instructions
Chiropractic care for back pain

Tests
Chloride - urine test
The urine chloride test measures the amount of chloride in the urine.

Nutrition
Chloride in diet
Chloride is found in many chemicals and other substances in the body. It is one of the components of salt used in cooking and in some foods.

In-depth Report
Cholesterol - InDepth
An in-depth report on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of unhealthy cholesterol levels.

Self-Care Instructions
Cholesterol - drug treatment
Hyperlipidemia - drug treatment; Hardening of the arteries - statin

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Cholesterol - what to ask your doctor
Hyperlipidemia - what to ask your doctor; What to ask your doctor about cholesterol

Self-Care Instructions
Cholesterol and lifestyle
Hyperlipidemia - cholesterol and lifestyle; CAD - cholesterol and lifestyle; Coronary artery disease - cholesterol and lifestyle; Heart disease - cholesterol and lifestyle; Prevention - cholesterol and...

Self-Care Instructions
Cholesterol testing and results
Cholesterol test results; LDL test results; VLDL test results; HDL test results; Coronary risk profile results; Hyperlipidemia-results; Lipid disorder test results; Heart disease - cholesterol results

Self-Care Instructions
Choosing a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility
SNF; SAR; Sub-acute rehab

Special Topics
Choosing effective patient education materials

Nutrition
Chromium in diet
Chromium is an essential element that is not made by the body. It must be obtained from the diet.

In-depth Report
Chronic fatigue syndrome - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome.

Diseases & Conditions
Chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease is the slow loss of kidney function over time. The main job of the kidneys is to remove wastes and excess water from the body.

In-depth Report
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) -- emphysema and chronic bronchitis.

Special Topics
Chronic pain - resources

Surgery
Circumcision
Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin of the penis. penis

Diseases & Conditions
Cirrhosis
Cirrhosis is scarring of the liver and poor liver function. It is the last stage of chronic liver disease.

In-depth Report
Cirrhosis - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cirrhosis.

Discharge Instructions
Cirrhosis - discharge
Liver failure - discharge; Liver cirrhosis - discharge

Self-Care Instructions
Clear liquid diet
Surgery - clear liquid diet; Medical test - clear liquid diet

Discharge Instructions
Cognitive behavioral therapy for back pain
Nonspecific back pain - cognitive behavioral; Backache - chronic - cognitive behavioral; Lumbar pain - chronic - cognitive behavioral; Pain - back - chronic - cognitive behavioral; Chronic back pain - low...

Special Topics
Colds and flu – antibiotics
Antibiotics DO NOT cure colds and flus.

In-depth Report
Colds and the flu - InDepth
An in-depth report on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of colds and flu.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Colds and the flu - what to ask your doctor - adult
What to ask your doctor about colds and the flu - adult; Influenza - what to ask your doctor - adult; Upper respiratory infection - what to ask your doctor - adult; URI - what to ask your doctor - adult...

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Colds and the flu - what to ask your doctor - child
What to ask your doctor about colds and the flu - child; Influenza - what to ask your doctor - child; Upper respiratory infection - what to ask your doctor - child; URI - what to ask your doctor - child...

Diseases & Conditions
Colitis
Colitis is swelling (inflammation) of the large intestine (colon).

Diseases & Conditions
Colorado tick fever
Colorado tick fever (CTF) is a viral infection. It is spread by the bite of the Rocky Mountain wood tick (Dermacentor andersoni). Dermacentor andersoni

Diseases & Conditions
Colorectal polyps
A colorectal polyp is a growth on the lining of the colon or rectum.

Diseases & Conditions
Common cold
The common cold most often causes a runny nose, nasal congestion, and sneezing. You may also have a sore throat, cough, headache, or other symptoms.

Special Topics
Communicating with patients

Self-Care Instructions
Communicating with someone with aphasia
Stroke - aphasia; Speech and language disorder - aphasia

Self-Care Instructions
Communicating with someone with dysarthria
Speech and language disorder - dysarthria care; Slurred speech - dysarthria; Articulation disorder - dysarthria

Diseases & Conditions
Compression fractures of the back
Compression fractures of the back are broken vertebrae. Vertebrae are the bones of the spine.

Self-Care Instructions
Compression stockings
Compression hose; Pressure stockings; Support stockings; Gradient stockings; Varicose veins - compression stockings; Venous insufficiency - compression stockings

Special Topics
Concomitant
Concomitant means occurring during the same time period. It usually refers to secondary symptoms that occur with a main symptom.

Discharge Instructions
Concussion in adults - discharge
Brain injury - concussion - discharge; Traumatic brain injury - concussion - discharge; Closed head injury - concussion - discharge

Diseases & Conditions
Congenital antithrombin III deficiency
Congenital antithrombin III deficiency is a genetic disorder that causes the blood to clot more than normal. genetic

Self-Care Instructions
Constipation - self-care

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Constipation - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about constipation

Diseases & Conditions
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a condition in which the skin becomes red, sore, or inflamed after direct contact with a substance.

Self-Care Instructions
Controlling your high blood pressure
Controlling hypertension

Nutrition
Cooking utensils and nutrition
Cooking utensils can have an effect on your nutrition.

Self-Care Instructions
Cooking without salt
DASH diet; High blood pressure - DASH; Hypertension - DASH; Low-salt diet - DASH

Tests
Coombs test
The Coombs test looks for antibodies that may stick to your red blood cells and cause red blood cells to die too early. antibodies

Nutrition
Copper in diet
Copper is an essential trace element present in all body tissues. A small amount is needed for the body to function, but the body cannot make its own copper. You must get it from food.

Diseases & Conditions
Corns and calluses
Corns and calluses are thick layers of skin. They are caused by repeated pressure or friction at the spot where the corn or callus develops.

In-depth Report
Coronary artery disease - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of coronary artery disease (CAD).

Symptoms
Cough
Coughing is an important way to keep your throat and airways clear. But too much coughing may mean you have a disease or disorder. Some coughs are dry. Others are productive. A productive cough is one...

Special Topics
Could you have low testosterone?
Male menopause; Andropause; Testosterone deficiency; Low-T; Androgen deficiency of the aging male; Late-onset hypogonadism

Self-Care Instructions
Counting carbohydrates
Carb counting; Carbohydrate-controlled diet; Diabetic diet; Diabetes-counting carbohydrate

Nutrition
Cow's milk - infants
If your child is under 1 year old, you should not feed your baby cow's milk, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Cow's milk does not provide enough: Vitamin EIronEssential fatty acids...

Special Topics
Creating a family health history
Family health history; Create a family health history; Family medical history

In-depth Report
Crohn disease - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of Crohn disease.

Surgery
Cryotherapy for the skin
Cryotherapy is a method of superfreezing tissue in order to destroy it. This article discusses cryotherapy of the skin.

Diseases & Conditions
Cryptococcosis
Cryptococcosis is infection with the fungi Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii. Cryptococcus neoformans Cryptococcus gattii

Diseases & Conditions
Cryptosporidium enteritis
Cryptosporidium enteritis is an infection of the small intestine that causes diarrhea. The parasite cryptosporidium causes this infection.

Diseases & Conditions
Cutaneous skin tag
A cutaneous skin tag is a common skin growth. Most of the time, it is harmless.

Symptoms
Cyst
A cyst is a closed pocket or pouch of tissue. It can be filled with air, fluid, pus, or other material.

Diseases & Conditions
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a disease caused by a type of herpes virus.

Special Topics
DASH diet to lower high blood pressure

Self-Care Instructions
Daily bowel care program
Incontinence - care; Dysfunctional bowel - care; Neurogenic bowel - care

Special Topics
Dance your way to fitness
Exercise - dance; Wellness - dance

Self-Care Instructions
Day to day with COPD
COPD - day to day; Chronic obstructive airways disease - day to day; Chronic obstructive lung disease - day to day; Chronic bronchitis - day to day; Emphysema - day to day; Bronchitis - chronic - day to...

Self-Care Instructions
De Quervain tendinitis
Tendinopathy - De Quervain tendinitis; de Quervain tenosynovitis

Self-Care Instructions
Deciding to quit drinking alcohol
Alcohol use disorder - quitting drinking; Alcohol abuse - quitting drinking; Quitting drinking; Quitting alcohol; Alcoholism - deciding to quit

Discharge Instructions
Deep vein thrombosis - discharge
DVT - discharge; Blood clot in the legs - discharge; Thromboembolism - discharge; Venous thromboembolism - deep vein thrombosis; Post-phlebitic syndrome - discharge; Post-thrombotic syndrome - discharge

Diseases & Conditions
Delirium
Delirium is sudden severe confusion due to rapid changes in brain function that occur with physical or mental illness. confusion

Diseases & Conditions
Delirium tremens
Delirium tremens is a severe form of alcohol withdrawal. It involves sudden and severe mental or nervous system changes. alcohol withdrawal

Tests
Delta-ALA urine test
Delta-ALA is a protein (amino acid) produced by the liver. A test can be done to measure the amount of this substance in the urine.

Self-Care Instructions
Dementia - behavior and sleep problems
Sundowning - care

Self-Care Instructions
Dementia - daily care

Special Topics
Dementia - home care
Dementia is a loss of cognitive function that occurs with certain diseases. It affects memory, thinking, and behavior.

Self-Care Instructions
Dementia - keeping safe in the home

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Dementia - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about dementia; Alzheimer disease - what to ask your doctor; Cognitive impairment - what to ask your doctor

Self-Care Instructions
Dementia and driving

Symptoms
Depression
Depression may be described as feeling sad, blue, unhappy, miserable, or down in the dumps. Most of us feel this way at one time or another for short periods. Clinical depression is a mood disorder in which...

In-depth Report
Depression - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of depression.

Special Topics
Depression - resources

Self-Care Instructions
Depression - stopping your medicines

Diseases & Conditions
Dermatitis herpetiformis
Dermatitis herpetiformis (DH) is a very itchy rash consisting of bumps and blisters. The rash is chronic (long-term). blisters

Self-Care Instructions
Devices for hearing loss

Diseases & Conditions
Diabetes
Diabetes is a long-term (chronic) disease in which the body cannot regulate the amount of sugar in the blood.

Self-Care Instructions
Diabetes - foot ulcers
Diabetic foot ulcer; Ulcer - foot

Special Topics
Diabetes - insulin therapy
Diabetes - insulin

Self-Care Instructions
Diabetes - keeping active
Physical activity - diabetes; Exercise - diabetes

Self-Care Instructions
Diabetes - preventing heart attack and stroke
Diabetes complications - heart; Coronary artery disease - diabetes; CAD - diabetes; Cerebrovascular disease - diabetes

Self-Care Instructions
Diabetes - taking care of your feet
Diabetes - foot care - self-care; Diabetic foot ulcer - foot care; Diabetic neuropathy - foot care

In-depth Report
Diabetes - type 1 - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, and treatment of type 1 diabetes.

In-depth Report
Diabetes - type 2 - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of type 2 diabetes.

Self-Care Instructions
Diabetes - when you are sick
Sick-day management - diabetes; Diabetes - sick day management; Insulin resistance - sick day management; Ketoacidosis - sick day management; Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome - sick day management

Self-Care Instructions
Diabetes and alcohol
Alcohol - diabetes; Diabetes - alcohol use

Self-Care Instructions
Diabetes and exercise
Exercise - diabetes; Exercise - type 1 diabetes; Exercise - type 2 diabetes

Diseases & Conditions
Diabetes and nerve damage
Nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes is called diabetic neuropathy. This condition is a complication of diabetes. diabetes

In-depth Report
Diabetes diet - InDepth
An in-depth report on how people with diabetes can use healthy nutrition to help manage their blood glucose.

Self-Care Instructions
Diabetes eye exams
Diabetic retinopathy - eye exams; Diabetes - eye exams; Glaucoma - diabetic eye exam; Macular edema - diabetic eye exam

Special Topics
Diabetes myths and facts
Diabetes - common myths and facts; High blood sugar myths and facts

Self-Care Instructions
Diabetes tests and checkups
Routine diabetes tests; Diabetes - prevention

Nutrition
Diabetes type 2 - meal planning
When you have type 2 diabetes, taking time to plan your meals goes a long way toward controlling your blood sugar and weight. type 2 diabetes

Diseases & Conditions
Diaper rash
Diaper rash is a skin problem that develops in the area under an infant's diaper.

Symptoms
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is when you pass loose or watery stool.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Diarrhea - what to ask your doctor - child
What to ask your doctor about diarrhea - child; Loose stools - what to ask your doctor - child

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Diarrhea - what to ask your health care provider - adult
What to ask your health care provider about diarrhea - adult; Loose stools - what to ask your health care provider - adult

Nutrition
Diet - liver disease
Some people with liver disease must eat a special diet. This diet helps the liver function and protects it from working too hard. liver disease

Self-Care Instructions
Diet after gastric banding
Gastric banding surgery - your diet; Obesity - diet after banding; Weight loss - diet after banding

Special Topics
Diet myths and facts
Obesity - diet myths and facts; Overweight - diet myths and fact; Weight-loss diet myths and facts

Special Topics
Diet-boosting foods
Obesity - diet-boosting foods; Overweight - diet-boosting foods

Self-Care Instructions
Diet-busting foods
Obesity - diet-busting foods; Overweight - diet-busting foods; Weight loss - diet busting foods

Special Topics
Dietary fat and children

Self-Care Instructions
Dietary fats explained
Cholesterol - dietary fats; Hyperlipidemia - dietary fats; CAD - dietary fats; Coronary artery disease - dietary fats; Heart disease - dietary fats; Prevention - dietary fats; Cardiovascular disease - dietary...

Tests
Digital rectal exam
A digital rectal exam is an exam of the lower rectum. Your health care provider uses a gloved, lubricated finger to check for any abnormal findings.

Diseases & Conditions
Diphtheria
Diphtheria is an acute infection caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium diphtheriae. acute Corynebacterium diphtheriae

Injury
Dislocation
A dislocation is a separation of two ends of the bones where they meet at a joint. A joint is the place where two bones connect, which allows movement. A dislocated joint is a joint where the bones are...

Special Topics
Distracted driving
Safety - distracted driving

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Diverticulitis - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about diverticulitis

Symptoms
Dizziness
Dizziness is a term that is often used to describe 2 different symptoms: lightheadedness and vertigo. Lightheadedness is a feeling that you might faint. Vertigo is a feeling that you are spinning or moving...

Self-Care Instructions
Dizziness and vertigo - aftercare
Meniere disease - aftercare; Benign positional vertigo - aftercare

Special Topics
Domestic violence
Intimate partner violence; Spousal abuse; Elder abuse; Child abuse; Sexual abuse - domestic violence

Self-Care Instructions
Drawing medicine out of a vial
Administering injections; Giving a needle; Giving insulin

Self-Care Instructions
Driving and older adults
Driving - seniors; Driving - older adults; Driving and seniors; Older drivers; Senior drivers

Symptoms
Drooling
Drooling is saliva flowing outside the mouth.

Symptoms
Drowsiness
Drowsiness refers to feeling more sleepy than normal during the day. People who are drowsy may fall asleep when they do not want to or at times which can lead to safety concerns.

Diseases & Conditions
Drug-induced diarrhea
Drug-induced diarrhea is loose, watery stools that occurs when you take certain medicines. diarrhea

Self-Care Instructions
Dry mouth during cancer treatment
Chemotherapy - dry mouth; Radiation therapy - dry mouth; Transplant - dry mouth; Transplantation - dry mouth

Diseases & Conditions
Dry skin
Dry skin occurs when your skin loses too much water and oil. Dry skin is common and can affect anyone at any age. The medical term for dry skin is xerosis.

Diseases & Conditions
Dupuytren contracture
Dupuytren contracture is a painless thickening and tightening (contracture) of tissue beneath the skin on the palm and fingers.

Diseases & Conditions
Dysarthria
Dysarthria is a condition in which you have difficulty saying words because of problems with the muscles that help you talk.

Special Topics
E-cigarettes and E-hookahs
Electronic cigarettes; Electronic hookahs; Vaping; Vape pens; Mods; Pod-Mods; Electronic nicotine delivery systems; Smoking - electronic cigarettes

Diseases & Conditions
ECHO virus
Enteric cytopathic human orphan (ECHO) viruses are a group of viruses that can lead to infections in different parts of the body, and skin rashes.

Tests
EEG
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a test to measure the electrical activity of the brain.

Symptoms
Ear discharge
Ear discharge is drainage of blood, ear wax, pus, or fluid from the ear. ear wax

In-depth Report
Ear infections - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of ear infections.

Symptoms
Earache
An earache is a sharp, dull, or burning pain in one or both ears. The pain may last a short time or be ongoing. Related conditions include: Otitis mediaSwimmer's earMalignant otitis externa Otitis media...

Symptoms
Earlobe creases
Earlobe creases are lines in the surface of the earlobe of a child or young adult. The surface is otherwise smooth.

In-depth Report
Eating disorders - InDepth
An in-depth report on the treatment and prevention of eating disorders.

Special Topics
Eating disorders - resources

Self-Care Instructions
Eating habits and behaviors

Self-Care Instructions
Eating out
Weight-loss - eating out; Healthy diet - eating out; Obesity - eating out

Diseases & Conditions
Ectopic pregnancy
An ectopic pregnancy is a pregnancy that occurs outside the womb (uterus).

Diseases & Conditions
Ehrlichiosis
Ehrlichiosis is a bacterial infection transmitted by the bite of a tick.

Symptoms
Elbow pain
This article describes pain or other discomfort in the elbow that is not related to direct injury.

Tests
Electrocardiogram
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a test that records the electrical activity of the heart.

In-depth Report
Endometriosis - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of endometriosis.

Diseases & Conditions
Endometritis
Endometritis is an inflammation or irritation of the lining of the uterus (the endometrium). It is not the same as endometriosis. endometriosis

Self-Care Instructions
Enlarged prostate - after care
BPH - self-care; Benign prostatic hypertrophy - self-care; Benign prostatic hyperplasia - self-care

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Enlarged prostate - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about enlarged prostate; Benign prostatic hypertrophy - what to ask your doctor; BPH - what to ask your doctor

Diseases & Conditions
Enteritis
Enteritis is inflammation of the small intestine.

Discharge Instructions
Enterovirus D68
Non-polio enterovirus

Diseases & Conditions
Epididymitis
Epididymitis is swelling (inflammation) of the tube that connects the testicle with the vas deferens. The tube is called the epididymis.

Diseases & Conditions
Epiglottitis
Epiglottitis is inflammation of the epiglottis. This is the tissue that covers the trachea (windpipe). Epiglottitis can be a life-threatening disease.

In-depth Report
Epilepsy - InDepth
An in-depth report on the types, causes, diagnosis, and treatment of epilepsy.

Questions To Ask Your Doctor
Epilepsy in adults - what to ask your doctor
What to ask your doctor about epilepsy - adult; Seizures - what to ask your doctor - adult; Seizure - what to ask your doctor

In-depth Report
Erectile dysfunction - InDepth
An in-depth report on the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of erectile dysfunction.

Diseases & Conditions
Erysipelas
Erysipelas is a type of skin infection. It affects the outermost layer of the skin and the local lymph nodes.

Special Topics
Estimated average glucose (eAG)
eAG

Tests
Estradiol blood test
An estradiol test measures the amount of a hormone called estradiol in the blood. Estradiol is one of the main types of estrogens.

Special Topics
Etiology
Etiology describes the cause or causes of a disease.

In-depth Report
Exercise - InDepth
An in-depth report about the benefits and types of exercise.

Self-Care Instructions
Exercise and activity for weight loss
Weight loss - activity; Weight loss - exercise; Obesity - activity

Special Topics
Exercise and immunity
Battling another cough or cold? Feeling tired all the time? You may feel better if you take a daily walk or follow a simple exercise routine a few times a week.

Special Topics
Exercise clothing and shoes
Fitness - exercise clothing

Self-Care Instructions
Exercise, lifestyle, and your bones
Osteoporosis - exercise; Low bone density - exercise; Osteopenia - exercise

Self-Care Instructions
Exercise-induced asthma
Wheezing - exercise-induced; Reactive airway disease - exercise; Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction

Self-Care Instructions
Exercises to help prevent falls

Special Topics
Exercising on a budget
Exercise - budget; Weight loss - Exercise; Obesity - exercise

Special Topics
Eye - foreign object in

Symptoms
Eye burning - itching and discharge
Eye burning with discharge is burning, itching, or drainage from the eye of any substance other than tears.

Special Topics
Eye floaters

Symptoms
Eye pain
Pain in the eye may be described as a burning, throbbing, aching, or stabbing sensation in or around the eye. It may also feel like you have a foreign object in your eye. This article discusses eye pain...

Symptoms
Eyes - bulging
Bulging eyes is the abnormal protrusion (bulging out) of one or both eyeballs.

Symptoms
Face pain
Face pain may be dull and throbbing or an intense, stabbing discomfort in the face or forehead. It can occur in one or both sides.

Symptoms
Facial swelling
Facial swelling is the buildup of fluid in the tissues of the face. Swelling may also affect the neck and upper arms.