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Fever What is a fever? A fever is a body temperature that is higher than normal. It often means there is an abnormal process occurring in the body. Exercise, hot weather, inflammation, infection, vaccines, and many other things can make body temperature rise. What causes a fever

Hypothyroidism and Pregnancy Facts about hypothyroidism and pregnancy Hypothyroidism is a condition that is caused by an underactive thyroid gland. It may happen during pregnancy. Many symptoms of the condition are similar to pregnancy symptoms. For example, they can both cause

Meconium Aspiration What is meconium aspiration? Meconium aspiration is when a newborn breathes in a mixture of meconium and amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is the liquid that surrounds the baby in the womb. Meconium is the baby's first stool, or poop. It is sticky, thick, and

Thrombocytopenia in the Newborn What is thrombocytopenia in the newborn? Thrombocytopenia means that a newborn baby does not have enough platelets in their blood. Platelets are blood cells that help the blood clot. They are made in the bone marrow. How to say it thrahm-boh-si-toh

Anatomy and Function of the Heart Valves What are heart valves? The heart has four chambers: two upper chambers (atria) and two lower chambers (ventricles). Blood passes through a valve before leaving each chamber of the heart. The valves prevent the backward flow of blood

Scabies in Children What is scabies in children? Scabies are tiny mites on the skin. They cause a small red rash and intense itching. This infection is very contagious. It often spreads from child to child while children are sleeping together in the same bed or have close

Chemotherapy for Children What is chemotherapy for a child? Chemotherapy (chemo) is the use of medicines to treat cancer or kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy has been used for many years. It’s one of the most common treatments for many types of cancer. The groups of cancer therapy

Eye Care Specialists What is an ophthalmologist? An ophthalmologist is either a medical doctor (MD) or an osteopathic doctor (DO). They provide complete eye care. This includes exams, diagnosis, and treatment for many eye disorders. They are skilled in all types of eye care. They

Contraception/Birth Control What is birth control? Birth control is any activity, medicine, or equipment used to prevent pregnancy. There are many types of birth control available for people who do not wish to become pregnant. The decision on which method is right for you should

Common Cold in Children What is the common cold in children? The common cold (upper respiratory infection) is one of the most common illnesses in children. Each year it leads to more healthcare provider visits and missed days from school and work than any other illness. Millions