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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…

Being a Caregiver

What is a caregiver? A caregiver provides assistance in meeting the daily needs of another person. Responsibilities may range from bathing, dressing, feeding, transportation, grocery shopping, housework, managing incontinence, assisting…

Behcet Disease

What is Behcet disease? Behcet disease is a type of autoimmune disease. It causes inflammation of blood vessels. It’s a rare disease in the U.S., but it’s more common in…

Allergies in Children

What are allergies in children? Allergies are problems of the immune system. Most allergic reactions happen when the immune system reacts to a “false alarm.” Normally, the human body defends…

Before Bariatric Surgery

What is bariatric surgery? Bariatric surgery is a type of surgery to help you lose weight. It’s a choice for some people who are obese and have not been able…

Allergic Rhinitis in Children

What is allergic rhinitis in children? Rhinitis is a reaction that happens in the eyes, nose, and throat. It occurs when allergens in the air set off the release of…

Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD) in Children

What is Becker muscular dystrophy in children? Muscular dystrophy (MD) is an inherited (genetic) disorder of the muscles. It is called a neuromuscular disease. There are several types. Becker muscular…

Alpha-Fetoprotein (Blood)

Does this test have other names? msAFP screen What is this test? If you are pregnant, this test looks for a fetal substance called alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in your blood. AFP…

Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo

What is BPPV? Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is a disease of the vestibular (balance ) system of your inner ear. When you change your head position, it causes vertigo.…