Search Results

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

Joint Replacement Surgery What is joint replacement surgery? Joint replacement surgery removes and replaces an arthritic or damaged joint with an artificial joint (prosthesis). It may be considered only after other treatment choices have failed to ease pain or improve function

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

Describing a Skin Condition How to describe a skin condition A healthcare provider may ask you to describe your skin condition and its location. Here are some of the more common terms that may help you give a more accurate description: Condition What it looks like Abscess A

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

Breast Infections and Inflammations What is lactational mastitis? The most common type of breast infection is lactational mastitis. This happens when a person is breastfeeding. The nipples become cracked and sore. This allows bacteria from the baby's mouth to enter the ducts and

Allergens: Pollen What is pollen? Pollen is the tiny egg-shaped male cells of plants, including trees, grasses, and weeds. Pollen is microscopic in size. It is the most common cause of hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis). Which plants produce pollen that cause allergic

Hormones During Pregnancy What is the role of hormones during pregnancy? Many hormone levels are affected in the body during pregnancy. Several hormones play major roles during pregnancy. These are: Human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG). This hormone is made only during

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

Sleeping Positions During Pregnancy As your pregnancy progresses and your uterus gets bigger, you may find it harder to get comfortable in bed. Early on in pregnancy, you can sleep on your stomach. Over time, that position can become uncomfortable. But it's OK to sleep on your