Search Results

Shingles What is shingles? Shingles (herpes zoster) is a common infection of the nerves. It's caused by a virus. Shingles set off a painful rash or small blisters on an area of skin. It can appear anywhere on the body, but it typically appears on only one side of the face or body

Vision Problems in Children Vision problems that may affect your child Eye disorders that affect vision can be divided into refractive and non-refractive errors. Refractive errors. These eye disorders cause blurred vision. They occur because the shape of the eye does not focus

Long QT Syndrome What is long QT syndrome? Long QT syndrome (LQTS) is a disease that can cause a dangerous rapid heart rate and irregular rhythm involving the bottom pumping chambers of the heart (ventricles). The heart has both muscular and electrical components. Electricity

Obesity in Children and Teens What is obesity in children and teens? Obesity is when a person has too much body fat. Without treatment, obesity can become a serious, long-term disease. What causes obesity in a child or teen? In many ways, childhood obesity is a puzzling disease

Type 2 Diabetes in Children What is type 2 diabetes in children? Diabetes is a condition in which the body can't make enough insulin. Or can't use insulin normally. Type 2 diabetes is a metabolic disorder. Insulin is a hormone. It helps sugar (glucose) in the blood get into cells

Tricuspid Atresia What is tricuspid atresia? Tricuspid atresia (TA) is a heart defect present at birth (congenital). It occurs when the tricuspid valve doesn't form, or only partly forms. Normally the tricuspid valve is located between the right upper chamber (atrium) and the

Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension in the Newborn What is persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) in the newborn? Persistent pulmonary hypertension (PPHN) happens in newborn babies. It occurs when a newborn’s circulation continues to flow as it did while in the uterus. When this

Occupational Lung Diseases What are work-related lung diseases? Work-related lung diseases are lung problems that are caused by certain work environments. They are caused by breathing materials into the lungs. These lung diseases may have lasting effects, even after the exposure

Allergy Overview What are allergies? Allergies are due to a problem with the body's immune system. Most allergic reactions happen when the immune system reacts to a false alarm. Normally the immune system attacks harmful things, such as viruses or bacteria. But sometimes it

Nutrition During Pregnancy The importance of good nutrition during pregnancy About 300 extra calories are needed every day to maintain a healthy pregnancy. These calories should come from a balanced diet of protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Sweets and fats should be