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Hip Fracture What is a hip fracture? A hip fracture is a break in the thighbone (femur) of your hip joint. Joints are areas where two or more bones meet. Your hip joint is a "ball and socket" joint, where your thighbone meets your pelvic bone. The ball part of your hip joint is

Inguinal and Umbilical Hernias in Children What are hernias in children? A hernia occurs when a part of the intestine or other tissue pushes through an opening in the belly (abdominal) muscles. The hernia creates a soft lump or bulge under the skin. In children, a hernia often

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) What is premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)? Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a much more severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It may affect people of childbearing age. It’s a severe and chronic health condition that needs

Describing a Skin Condition How to describe a skin condition A doctor may ask you to describe your skin condition and its location. Here are some of the more common terms that may help you give a more accurate description: Condition What it looks like Abscess A closed, painful

Neurological Exam What is a neurological exam? A neurological exam is also called a neuro exam. It is an evaluation of a person's nervous system that can be done in the doctor's office. It may be done with instruments, such as lights and reflex hammers. It usually does not cause

Common Symptoms of Liver Disease What are some common liver disease symptoms? When diagnosing liver disease, your health care provider looks at your symptoms and does a physical exam. Some common signs and symptoms of liver disease include: A yellowing of the skin and eyes

Head Injury in Children What is a head injury in children? A head injury is any kind of damage to the scalp, skull, brain, or other tissue and blood vessels in the head. A head injury is also often called a brain injury or traumatic brain injury (TBI), depending on the extent of

Medical Genetics: Getting Genetic Services for Your Child What are genetic services? Genetic services are programs that help support families and children with genetic disorders. Genetic services can: Give you information about your family’s genetic risk factors. Diagnose a

Overview of Kidney Disorders How do the kidneys work? The body takes nutrients from food and converts them to energy. After the body has used all the food components that it needs, waste products are left behind in the bowel and in the blood. The kidneys and urinary system help

Melanoma: Diagnosis If your healthcare provider thinks you might have melanoma, you will likely need certain exams and tests to be sure. Diagnosing melanoma starts with your healthcare provider asking you questions. They will ask you about your health history, your symptoms, risk