MedlinePlus is a service of the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the world's largest medical library, which is part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It was built as an online health information resource for patients and their families and friends.
MedlinePlus presents high-quality, easy to understand, relevant health and wellness information that is trusted.
Most people have four pea-sized glands, called parathyroid glands, on the thyroid gland in the neck. Though their names are similar, the thyroid and parathyroid ...
... mind about consent at any time.Where can I get help with patient rights? There are different ...
Pets can add fun, companionship and a feeling of safety to your life. Before getting a pet, think carefully about which animal is best for your family. What ...
Pheochromocytoma is a rare tumor that usually starts in the cells of one of your adrenal glands. Although they are usually benign, pheochromocytomas often cause the adrenal ...
A phobia is a type of anxiety disorder. It is a strong, irrational fear of something that poses little or no real danger. There are many specific phobias. ...
If you are trying to have a baby or are just thinking about it, it is not too early to prepare for a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby. You should see your ...
You're going to have a baby! It's an exciting time, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. You may have a lot of questions, including what you can do to ...
Prenatal care is the health care you get while you are pregnant. It includes your checkups and prenatal testing.
Prenatal care can help keep you and your baby ...
Prenatal testing provides information about your baby's health before he or she is born. Some routine tests during pregnancy also check on your health. At your ...
... as an injection, a pill, or through an I.V. (intravenous). They can cause bleeding, especially if ...
Tobacco use is the most common preventable cause of death. About half of the people who don't quit smoking will die of smoking-related problems. Quitting smoking ...
The cornea and lens of your eye helps you focus. Refractive errors are vision problems that happen when the shape of the eye keeps you from focusing well. ...
... last for 6 to 12 months.When should I see a health care provider for shoulder pain? ...
Rotavirus is a virus that causes gastroenteritis. Symptoms include severe diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and dehydration. Almost all children in the U.S. are likely ...
What are sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? Sexually transmitted infections (STIs), or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), are infections that are ...
What is sickle cell disease (SCD)? Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. If you have SCD, there is a problem with ...
... red patches Skin cancer Skin infections How can I keep my skin healthy? Since your skin protects ...
What is sleep? Sleep is a complex biological process. While you are sleeping, you are unconscious, but your brain and body functions are still active. ...
... disease, gum disease, and oral lesions.Why should I quit? Remember, there is no safe level of ...
... have certain types of liver disease.How can I safely take statins? To safely take statins, you ...