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Coronary Heart Disease What is coronary heart disease? Coronary heart disease happens when the innermost layer of the coronary arteries becomes inflamed and narrowed. This is caused by a buildup of fatty deposits called plaque. These deposits may start in childhood and continue

Introduction to Menopause What is menopause? When a person permanently stops having menstrual periods, this is called menopause. This means they can no longer get pregnant. Many healthcare providers use the term menopause to refer to the period of time when hormone levels start

Brain Tumors in Children What are brain tumors in children? A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue in the brain. The brain is part of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS also includes the spinal cord. The main parts of the brain are: Cerebrum. This is the front of

Gestational Diabetes What is gestational diabetes? Gestational diabetes is a type of diabetes that happens during pregnancy. Unlike type 1 diabetes, gestational diabetes is not caused by having too little insulin. Instead, hormones made by your placenta keep your body from using

Uterine Fibroids What are uterine fibroids? Fibroids are firm, dense tumors made of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. They develop in the uterus. About 1 in 5 to 1 in 2 women of reproductive age have fibroids, but not all are diagnosed. Fibroids are very common

Rhabdomyosarcoma in Children What is rhabdomyosarcoma in children? Rhabdomyosarcoma is a type of cancer. It starts in cells that should grow into skeletal muscle cells. Skeletal muscles control voluntary muscle movements. These are movements we can control. This rare cancer is

Crohn's Disease in Children What is Crohn's disease in children? Crohn's disease is when there is redness, swelling (inflammation), and sores along the digestive tract. It is part of a group of diseases known as inflammatory bowel disease. Crohn's disease is a long-term (chronic)

Inguinal and Umbilical Hernias in Children What are hernias in children? A hernia is 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

Vaginitis What is vaginitis? Vaginitis is any inflammation or infection of the vagina. It's common in women of all ages. About 1 in 3 women have vaginitis at some time in their lives. What causes vaginitis? Bacteria, yeast, viruses, parasites, and chemicals in creams or sprays

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