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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

Tinea Infection What is tinea infection? Tinea is a fungal infection of the skin. Tinea on the body or scalp is sometimes known as ringworm. This is because it can cause red patches on the skin in the shape of rings. But it’s not caused by worms. It’s caused by different types of

Sunburn What is sunburn? Sunburn is a red, painful skin reaction that occurs after too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light. UV light is a type of radiation in sunlight. The symptoms of a sunburn most often appear a few hours after sun exposure. They are often worst at 6 to 36

Shingles What is shingles? Shingles (herpes zoster) is a common infection of the nerves. It is caused by a virus. Shingles set off a painful rash or small blisters on an area of skin. It can appear anywhere on the body, but it typically appears on only one side of the face or

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

Cardiovascular Disease and Diabetes You've probably heard that people with diabetes are at risk for multiple health complications. These include cardiovascular disease. As it turns out, cardiovascular disease is especially common among people with diabetes. Most people with type

Diabetic Nephropathy (Kidney Disease) What is diabetic kidney disease? Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is kidney disease that is due to diabetes. It is also called diabetic nephropathy. Nephropathy means your kidneys aren't working normally. Type 1 and type 2 diabetes are the most

Anatomy of the Endocrine System The endocrine system is a complex network of glands and organs. It uses hormones to control and coordinate your body's metabolism, energy level, reproduction, growth and development, and response to injury, stress, and mood. The following are key

The Thyroid Gland Anatomy of the thyroid gland The thyroid gland is found in the front of the neck. It sits below the voice box (larynx) and on top of the trachea (windpipe). It has a butterfly-like shape. The small, 2-inch gland consists of 2 lobes, 1 on each side of the

Ear, Nose, and Throat Facts What is the ear? The ear is the organ of hearing and balance. The ear is made up of: External or outer ear. This includes: Pinna or auricle. This is the outside part of the ear. External auditory canal or tube. This is the tube that connects the outer