Introduction An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to a normally nonthreatening substance. There are many types, causes, and symptoms of allergic reactions.  Different areas of the body can be affected depending on the allergic trigger.  Some...

Introduction Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction with rapid onset of symptoms.  Anaphylaxis usually occurs in people after they are exposed to a substance they are severely allergic to such as foods, medications, and insect stings.  It has...

Introduction Ankle Sprains are a very common injury that can happen to anyone.  Our ankles support our entire body weight and are vulnerable to instability.  Walking on an uneven surface or wearing the wrong shoes can cause a sudden loss of balance that makes the...

Introduction Asthma is a lung disease.  Asthma causes the breathing tubes in the lungs to temporarily narrow.  People with asthma have difficulty breathing air in and out of their lungs.  An allergen or irritant in the environment usually triggers an asthma flare-up. ...

Introduction Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is a neurologically based condition.  People with ADD have difficulty paying attention, maintaining their focus on a task, and are easily distracted.  They may move from one task to the next without completing any of...

Introduction Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) is a neurologically based disorder.  People with ADHD have difficulty maintaining attention, acting before thinking, and are hyperactive or restless.  Untreated ADHD can be problematic and disrupt school or...

Introduction Animal bite injuries can cause skin wounds and structural damage to the hand.  Infection and, less commonly, rabies are always a main concern.  Pets are the most common source of bite injuries, although they may result from wild animals as well.  Animal...

Introduction Human bite injuries result from fist fighting or the intentional act of biting to inflict harm.  Bite injuries occur during fist fighting if the fist of one person strikes the teeth of another person.  Hand injuries from human bites can result in...

Introduction Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an irreversible lung condition.  Diseases classified as COPD cause swelling of the large airways in the lungs, which obstructs or blocks the flow of air.  Symptoms of COPD include shortness of breath,...

Introduction Chronic sinusitis is a complication of sinusitis, an uncomfortable condition that occurs when the sinuses cannot drain.  Although the average case of sinusitis may last for several weeks, chronic sinusitis results when it lasts for three months or longer...

Introduction Cochlear implants are small devices surgically placed in the ear to help people with complete deafness or near complete deafness to hear. This, in turn, can lead to improved speaking skills.  In some cases, people with cochlear implants may be able to...

Introduction A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs from a direct hit to the head. Concussions can also occur when the head or body is forcefully shaken. Brain injuries can lead to temporary confusion, headaches, and much more. Concussions may...

Introduction Conjunctivitis is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva.  The conjunctiva is a thin film that covers the inside of your eyelids and the whites of your eyes.  There are many causes and types of conjunctivitis.  Some kinds are contagious and can...

Introduction For some people, objects as common as rubber-soled shoes, jewelry, or cleaning products can cause contact dermatitis, a type of skin reaction.  Contact dermatitis appears as an itchy red rash on the skin.  It develops when the skin touches a substance...

Introduction Diaper rash is the type of dermatitis that occurs on your baby’s bottom and genitals. It is typically bright red and may include bumps such as blisters or pimples. Diaper rash may be irritating or mildly painful for your baby, but most cases respond well...

Introduction Earache, medically termed otalgia, is pain that occurs in the ear.  Ear infections are a frequent cause of earache, especially in infants and children.  Air pressure changes and earwax buildup are also common causes.  There are varieties of treatments for...

Introduction Eczema is a chronic hypersensitive skin reaction, similar to an allergy.  An atopic dermatitis is a common form of eczema.  The hallmark symptoms of eczema are intense itching and a red rash.  Environmental irritants, stress, water, and temperature...

Introduction Emphysema is a lung disease.  The condition of emphysema makes it difficult to exhale air and empty the lungs when breathing.  In turn, the lungs are unable to completely fill up with fresh air when inhaling.  This leads to a decreased level of oxygen in...

Introduction Runny noses, itchy watery eyes, and sneezing bother many Americans with environmental allergies, especially during pollen season.  While outdoor allergies from grass, weeds, and trees may be seasonal, indoor allergies from dust mites and pet dander can...

Introduction Eye allergies are usually more annoying than they are dangerous.  Eye allergies are common.  In fact, about 50% of people with general allergies experience eye allergies.  In many cases, over-the-counter medications can help relieve itchy watery eyes. ...

Introduction Many people have food intolerances, such as lactose intolerance with milk, but true food allergies only affect about 1% of all people.  Food allergies are more common in children, and some children outgrow them.  People with food allergies should avoid...

Introduction Bones are the hardest tissues in your body. Although bones are strong, they can split or break under too much pressure or force. A broken bone is called a fracture. Fractures can occur in a variety of ways. The most common causes of fractures are...

Introduction Hives (Urticaria) are red or white itchy bumps that appear on the skin.  Hives result from allergic reactions, environmental factors, and certain medical conditions.  In many cases, hives resolve without medical treatment.  Over-the-counter or...

Introduction Itching and swelling from insect stings annoy millions of Americans each year.  For some people, stings from certain insects can cause allergic reactions.  While most stinging insects do not cause an allergic reaction, honeybees, yellow jackets, hornets,...

Introduction Lacerations are cuts or scratches that cause a skin wound.  Lacerations that are not deep can heal with home treatments.  Deep severe lacerations require medical treatment, such as stitches to close the wound and promote healing.  Steps should be taken to...

Introduction Many people have experienced unwanted side effects of medications, but an allergic reaction to a medication is not the same thing as a side effect or adverse effect.  An allergic reaction is an immune system response that can be mild to life-threatening. ...

Introduction Middle ear infection, termed otitis media, is a common problem in infants and young children.  They result from increased pressure and increased fluids in the middle ear.  An earache is the primary symptom of a middle ear infection.  Most ear infections...

Introduction Chronic conditions, such as allergies or sinus infections, can cause more than just a runny nose.  Nasal polyps are small growths that form in the nasal passageways following long-term irritation.  The growths are not cancerous, but they can make it...

Introduction Newborn hearing screening is used to detect hearing loss in newborn babies.  Newborns are typically tested before they leave the hospital.  Screening is important to identify hearing problems early to ensure that babies with deafness or decreased hearing...

Introduction Nightmares or bad dreams are commonly experienced by children as a natural part of growing up.  They may occur in adults from time to time as well.  People experiencing stressful life events or sleep disorders or who use alcohol, illegal drugs, or certain...

Introduction The sight of blood may be unexpected, but nosebleeds are actually quite common and rarely life threatening.  Nasal irritation and low humidity most frequently cause nosebleeds.  In most cases, nosebleeds can be stopped with self-care.  Simply squeeze your...

Introduction There are a variety of vision problems that may affect infants and children.  You should have your child evaluated if you suspect that your child is having a vision problem. Infants or children do not need to be able to talk to have an eye examination. ...

Introduction An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system overreacts to a normally non-threatening substance.  There are many types, causes, and symptoms of allergic reactions.  Different areas of the body can be affected depending on the allergic trigger. ...

Introduction Anemia is a blood disorder.  It is characterized by a lack of red blood cells or hemoglobin, a substance in red blood cells.  Anemia results if not enough normal hemoglobin or red blood cells are produced, too many red blood cells are destroyed, or if too...

Introduction Asthma is a lung disease.  Asthma causes the breathing tubes in the lungs to temporarily narrow.  People with asthma have difficulty breathing air in and out of their lungs.  An allergen or irritant in the environment usually triggers an asthma flare-up. ...

Introduction The food that your child eats can directly affect his or her health.  As Americans are facing higher rates of obesity, diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disease, it is more important than ever to make sure that you and your family are eating a...

Introduction A chalazion is an inflammation within the gland of the eyelid.  It forms over several weeks and appears as a reddened lump or bump on the eyelid.  A chalazion can cause eyelid tenderness and painful swelling.  In some cases, chalazia can be treated at...

Introduction Colds are a very common medical condition.  There are over two hundred viruses that can cause the common cold.  The viruses are easily transmitted from person to person.  Coughing, sneezing, a sore throat, and a runny nose are typical cold symptoms. ...

Introduction Constipation refers to a change and decrease in bowel movements.  Constipation can be very uncomfortable but is rarely linked to a serious medical condition.  It can cause hard stools that are difficult and painful to pass.  A poor diet, poor bowel...

Introduction Diabetes is a disease that affects how the body uses glucose, a sugar that is a source of fuel.  Normally, insulin, a hormone, helps glucose enter the body cells where it is used for energy.  People with diabetes do not produce insulin, do not produce...

Introduction Type 2 Diabetes, also called Adult Onset Diabetes, is the most common form of diabetes.  Diabetes is a disease that affects how the body uses glucose, a sugar that is a source of fuel.  Normally, insulin, a hormone, helps glucose get into the body cells...

Introduction Diarrhea is a very common condition for people of all ages.  A viral infection, such as the stomach flu, or a bacterial infection most frequently causes diarrhea.  Less commonly, diarrhea is associated with an underlying medical condition. Symptoms...

Introduction Fever is a symptom of illness, and it is the body’s way of fighting off infection. While parents often fear fever in their children, it is a healthy response to illness and typically not harmful or life-threatening, unless it is extremely high, as in over...

Introduction The flu is a respiratory disease that affects the nose, throat, and lungs.  The influenza virus type A, B, or C causes it.  The flu is very contagious.  Symptoms include fever, chills, body aches, cough, and a lack of energy.  The flu usually lasts for a...

Introduction Gas symptoms occur daily as part of your child’s normal digestive process.  Belching, burping, and passing gas (flatulence) eliminates gas from your child’s digestive tract.  Excess gas can cause discomfort, pain, and bloating. Gas symptoms are produced...

Introduction Gastroenteritis is irritation and inflammation of the stomach and intestines.  It is most frequently caused by viral or bacterial infection.  Symptoms of gastroenteritis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.  Usually, treatment is aimed...

Introduction Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a digestive condition.  It is also called Peptic Esophagitis and Reflux Esophagitis.  GERD results when stomach contents and stomach acids enter the esophagus.  The esophagus is the tube that transfers food from...

Introduction High cholesterol occurs when there is too much or an unhealthy balance of cholesterol in the blood.  Both children and adults can have high cholesterol.  Your child’s body needs some cholesterol for healthy functioning, but too much is dangerous to your...

Introduction Indigestion is a common condition and affects people of all ages.  Indigestion can occur for many reasons.  The consumption of certain foods, medications, cigarette smoking, and drinking alcohol can contribute to indigestion.  Indigestion can be a symptom...

Introduction Menstruation is a normal and healthy part of a female’s life.  Menstruation, commonly called a period, occurs each month in a fairly regular cycle.  During this time the uterine lining sheds.  A period usually lasts from five to seven days.  Common...

Introduction Moles are dark spots on the skin.  Babies can be born with moles.  Moles also appear over time.  Heredity and spending time in the sun may influence the number of moles that your child has.  Some people have moles removed because they are bothered by the...

Introduction Seborrhea, also called Seborrheic Dermatitis, is a common skin condition.  When it occurs on the scalp it is called dandruff.  Seborrhea on a baby’s scalp is called cradle cap.  Seborrhea describes red scaly itchy skin.  The affected areas produce white...

Introduction Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States.  There are many types of skin cancers.  They are classified as melanomas or non-melanomas.  Melanomas begin in the melanocytes, the cells in the skin that produce color.  Melanoma can...

Introduction The stomach flu, also called viral gastroenteritis, is the leading cause of severe diarrhea.  It can also cause vomiting and abdominal pain.  The virus is found in contaminated food or drinking water.  Symptoms of the stomach flu usually develop within 4...

Introduction Babies may start getting teeth their first teeth as early as six months old.  Some babies may experience discomfort as the teeth begin to come in and break through the gum.  Babies respond to teething and teething treatments differently. Symptoms Each...

Introduction Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) are a common condition.  Most UTIs result from infection caused by bacteria that enters the urinary tract system.  UTIs can be quite uncomfortable and lead to problems with urination.  Fortunately, most UTIs respond well to...

Introduction Warts are small growths that appear on the skin.  They vary in type, size, appearance, and location.  Warts usually are not painful.  A virus causes warts.  Warts are very contagious and can be spread from person to person.  Some warts respond to...

Introduction Weighing too much or too little can be a problem.  In the United States, weighing too much is the more common situation.  It can be unhealthy to be underweight or overweight.  Of growing concern, many Americans are becoming obese, which means very...

Introduction Pneumonia can be a serious life-threatening illness that needs medical attention.  Pneumonia results from germs that cause an infection in the lungs.  Many people with pneumonia are treated with prescription medication at home, but others require more...

Introduction Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP), also called retrolental fibroplasia, is abnormal blood vessel development that may occur in some premature babies.  The retina is located at the back of the eye.  The retina transmits nerve messages about what is seen to...

Introduction Rashes are a common skin condition that everyone experiences at one time or another.  There are numerous causes of rashes, ranging from allergic reactions, infections, and medical conditions to insect stings.  Some types of rashes can be treated at home...

Introduction Scoliosis is an abnormal curvature of the spine.  A healthy spine has natural front-to-back curves.  Scoliosis is a condition that describes side-to-side curvatures of the spine, that often also involves rotational deformities.  Some people are born with...

Introduction Sinusitis is a fairly common condition.  It can develop following a cold, upper respiratory infection, or allergic reaction.  Environmental irritants, certain medical conditions, and structural abnormalities can contribute to sinusitis. Sinusitis causes...

Introduction For some people, objects as common as rubber-soled shoes, jewelry, or cleaning products can cause an allergic skin reaction (contact dermatitis).  Symptoms include varying degrees of an itchy inflamed rash.  If treatment is necessary, there are a variety...

Introduction Sore throats (pharyngitis) are a very common medical condition.  Sore throats are most frequently caused by viral infections.  The majority of sore throats heal on their own.  The symptoms may be relieved with home treatments and over-the-counter...

Introduction Sprains and strains are common injuries that can happen to anyone but occur most frequently in people who participate in sports, perform repetitive activities, or are at risk for falls.  Sprains involve the tissues that connect bones together...

Introduction Strep throat is a common type of sore throat.  The germ that causes strep throat is spread from person to person in saliva and nasal secretions.  Strep throat is treated with antibiotics.  You can help prevent the spread of strep throat with regular hand...

Introduction Swimmer’s ear is an outer ear infection.  It is also called an external ear infection, external otitis, or otitis externa.  It commonly results from an infection that develops in trapped water in the ear after swimming.  Irritants or germs that enter the...

Introduction Tonsillitis is an inflammation of the tonsils most common in children and adolescents. It is typically caused by a virus, although it can also be caused by a bacterial infection. Common symptoms include sore throat, difficulty swallowing and fever.  Most...

Introduction Although no one likes it, everyone will experience vomiting at one time or another.  Vomiting occurs when the stomach moves food up and out, instead of down through the digestive tract.  In the majority of cases, vomiting can be treated at home with...