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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

Tonsillitis What is tonsillitis? Tonsillitis means that your tonsils are inflamed. Your tonsils are large, fleshy glands at the back of your throat. These glands make antibodies that help fight infection. What causes tonsillitis? Both bacteria and viruses can cause tonsillitis

Perimenopause What is perimenopause? Perimenopause is the transitional time around menopause. Menopause is when a woman’s periods stop. It’s marked by changes in the menstrual cycle, along with other physical and emotional symptoms. This time can last 2 to 8 years. During this

Food Allergies in Children What is a food allergy in children? A food allergy is when your child's body has a bad immune reaction to a certain food. This is different from a food intolerance, which does not affect the immune system. This is true even though some of the same signs

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) What is generalized anxiety disorder? Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a mental health condition that causes you to worry a lot. The worry can feel out of your control. And you might have a hard time sleeping and feel irritable or on edge

Germ Cell Tumors (GCTs) in Children What are germ cell tumors in children? A type of cell that forms as a fetus (also called an embryo) develops is called a germ cell. Germ cells are the cells that make the eggs (ova) in females and the sperm in males. Germ cell tumors (GCTs) are

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) What is premenstrual syndrome (PMS)? Premenstrual syndrome or PMS is a group of physical and emotional symptoms many people may have in the days before their period starts. Symptoms usually stop when the period starts or shortly after. It’s thought to

Rubella (German Measles) What is rubella? Rubella is sometimes called German measles. It's a viral infection. It usually causes a mild illness in children. Adults have a slightly more severe illness. But the virus can cause serious birth defects in pregnant people. A vaccine is

Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA) What is granulomatosis with polyangiitis? Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is an autoimmune disorder. An autoimmune disorder occurs when the body's immune system attacks and destroys healthy tissue. GPA causes inflammation, swelling

Dyskeratosis Congenita in Children What is dyskeratosis congenita in children? Dyskeratosis congenita is a congenital disease. This means it's present at birth. It's a very rare condition. It affects the skin and nails. In its most severe form, it causes bone marrow failure. When