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Skin Pigment Disorders What are skin pigment disorders? Skin color is determined by a pigment (melanin) made by specialized cells in the skin (melanocytes). The amount and type of melanin determines a person's skin color. What is the function of melanin? Melanin's role is to

Overview of Sleep Disorders Facts about sleep disorders Loss of sleep can cause problems at home or on the job. It can lead to serious or even fatal accidents. The National Sleep Foundation notes that: Between 50 and 70 million U.S. adults have some type of sleep or wakefulness

Dental Sealants What are dental sealants? Dental sealants are thin, plastic coatings that bond to the chewing surfaces of the back teeth (molars and premolars). Sealants help prevent tooth decay (cavities). They work very well on the back teeth. These teeth contain more hard-to

Dialysis in Children What is dialysis? Dialysis is a procedure that is done routinely on people who have acute or chronic kidney (renal) failure. It filters waste and extra fluid from the blood. That is something that would normally be done by the kidneys. Dialysis may also be

Diet for Lactose Intolerance What is lactose intolerance? Lactose is the name of the sugar found in milk. Lactose intolerance occurs when your body can't break down all the lactose in the foods you eat. Symptoms of lactose intolerance include: Diarrhea. Gas. Bloating. Stomach

Tests to Diagnose a Stroke How is a stroke diagnosed? Your doctor will ask you about your health history. They will give you a physical exam. You may also have these tests to diagnose a stroke. Imaging tests of the brain CT scan. This test uses X-rays and a computer to make

Pollen and Children What is pollen? Each grain of pollen is tiny (microscopic). When there is a lot of pollen together, it becomes a fine yellow powder. It's made of the male reproductive cells of flowering plants, trees, grasses, and weeds. It's the most common cause of hay

Your Child's Allergies: Dust Mites What is a dust mite? Dust mites are microscopic organisms that live in homes and schools. They like warm, humid areas filled with dust. Dust mites feed on the shed scales of human skin that work their way into furniture, carpets, bedding, and

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