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Endometriosis What is endometriosis? The tissue that lines the uterus is called the endometrium. Normally, if a woman doesn’t get pregnant, this tissue is shed each month during her period. In endometriosis, tissue that looks and acts like endometrial tissue implants outside the

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

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in Children What is posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in children? Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health problem. It can affect people of all ages. A child with PTSD keeps having scary thoughts and memories of a past event

Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac Rash What is poison ivy, oak, and sumac rash? Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are types of American plants. They each grow in different parts of the country. The plants cause allergic contact dermatitis in most people who touch them. The rash

Ascites What is ascites? Ascites is a condition that happens when fluid collects in spaces in your belly (abdomen). If severe, it may be painful. The problem may keep you from moving around comfortably. It can set the stage for an infection in your abdomen. Fluid may also move

Atrial Fibrillation and Stroke Prevention What’s the connection between atrial fibrillation and stroke prevention? Atrial fibrillation (AFib) increases the risk for stroke. So stroke prevention is an important part of treatment for atrial fibrillation. AFib is a type of abnormal

Hereditary Hemochromatosis What is hereditary hemochromatosis? Hereditary hemochromatosis is a genetic blood disorder that causes your body to absorb too much iron from the food you eat. Iron is a mineral found in many foods. But too much iron is toxic to your body. The excess

Male Infertility What is male infertility? Gender words are used here to talk about anatomy and health risk. Please use this information in a way that works best for you and your doctor as you talk about your care. Infertility is a disease of the reproductive system. It makes a

High Blood Pressure: Hypertension What is high blood pressure? Blood pressure is the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls. The force is made with each heartbeat as blood is pumped from the heart into the blood vessels. This is called systolic blood pressure. Blood

Spina Bifida in Children What is spina bifida in children? Spina bifida is a condition present at birth (birth defect) when there are problems with the spine, spinal cord, and the surrounding nerves. It can cause part of the spinal cord and areas around it to form outside of the