Search Results

Pulmonary Emphysema What is emphysema? Emphysema is a progressive chronic lung condition in which the tiny air sacs (alveoli) are damaged or destroyed. When this happens, it causes the tiny air sacs to rupture and create one big air pocket instead of many tiny ones. Air becomes

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

Signs of Respiratory Distress Learning the signs of respiratory distress People having trouble breathing often show signs that they are having to work harder to breathe or are not getting enough oxygen, indicating respiratory distress. Below is a list of some of the signs that

Actinic Keratosis What is actinic keratosis? Actinic keratosis (AK) is a rough, scaly spot or bump on sun-exposed skin. Most people with AK have more than one spot. AK is the most common precancer of the skin. Over time, it can develop into squamous cell skin cancer. Most

Skin Cancer: Prevention The sun sustains life and feels good, but it can be your skin’s worst enemy. While every sunburn can increase your risk of skin cancer, it’s not just those big days at the beach or ballgames that cause trouble. Each time you run out to get the mail, walk

Melanoma: Diagnosis If your healthcare provider thinks you might have melanoma, you will likely need certain exams and tests to be sure. Diagnosing melanoma starts with your healthcare provider asking you questions. They will ask you about your health history, your symptoms, risk

Low Back Pain What is low back pain? Low back pain can range from mild, dull, annoying pain, to persistent, severe, disabling pain in the lower back. Pain in the lower back can restrict mobility and interfere with normal functioning. What causes low back pain? The exact cause of

Anatomy and Function of the Urinary System How does the urinary system work? The body takes nutrients from food and changes them to energy. After the body has taken the food components that it needs, waste products are left behind in the bowel and in the blood. The kidney and

Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence) What is erectile dysfunction? Erectile dysfunction (ED) or impotence means you can’t get an erection. It can also mean you aren't happy with the size or hardness of your erections, or how long your erections last. In the past, ED was thought to be

Peyronie Disease What is Peyronie disease? Peyronie disease causes hard, flat plaque to form under the skin on the tissue of the penis. The plaque often starts as an inflammation that may turn into scar tissue. The plaque builds up inside the penis in the thick elastic membrane