Search Results

Skin Tests What are skin tests? Skin tests may be done to diagnose rashes, moles, skin allergies, bacterial or fungal skin infections, and other diseases. Skin tests are also done to tell the difference between cancer (malignant) cells and noncancer (benign) growths. What are the

Osteoporosis What is osteoporosis? Osteoporosis is a disease that causes weak, thinning bones. This puts the bones at greater risk of breaking. The bones most often affected are the hips, spine, and wrists. What causes osteoporosis? Researchers don't know the exact cause for

Diagnosing Noncancerous (Benign) Breast Conditions How are benign breast conditions and infections diagnosed? To diagnose a breast condition, your healthcare provider will take your complete health history. Your provider may also: Do a complete physical exam to: Locate any lump

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

The Lungs in Pregnancy Respiratory system The respiratory system is made up of the organs involved in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide. Its main job is to move fresh air (oxygen) into your body and move waste gases (carbon monoxide). out of your body. The system includes

Cystic Fibrosis Overview What is cystic fibrosis? Cystic fibrosis (CF) is an inherited disease of the glands that make mucus and sweat. People with CF get a defective gene from both parents. People who have one defective gene from one parent are called carriers. They don't have

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

Anatomy of a Joint Joints are the areas where 2 or more bones meet. Most joints are mobile, allowing the bones to move. Joints consist of the following: Cartilage. This is a type of tissue that covers the surface of a bone at a joint. Cartilage helps reduce the friction of

Creating an Exercise Program How to create an exercise program Exercise is vital for your health. It can improve your overall sense of well-being. Even low-to-moderate intensity activities for 30 minutes a day can help. These can include: Walking Climbing stairs Gardening Yard

Overview of Diabetes Complications What complications are linked to diabetes? Complications linked to diabetes may include: Heart disease. This is often caused by an extra buildup of plaque on the inner wall of a blood vessel (atherosclerosis). The plaque buildup limits blood