Viruses can cause colds, which can make it hard to breathe. Asthma is also a condition that makes it hard to breathe. Both can cause you to cough, wheeze, or become short of breath. In babies, viral infections are common. But, not all lead to asthma. In babies, if an Read more
Genes play a role in human traits and diseases. Sometimes, one gene determines one trait. For example, if you have wet or dry earwax. A change one gene can also cause a disease. This is the case with sickle cell anemia. But most of the time, diseases are a result Read more
Diarrhea is loose, watery stools. Some common causes include infections, drugs, and some types of sugar. It often lasts just a couple of days. But, sometimes it can last longer. When this happens, it may mean be a sign of something more serious. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration (always feeling Read more
We know what causes some diseases, like chicken pox and measles. As a result, we know how to treat them. We also know vaccines can prevent them. Gene changes can also cause diseases. Sometimes we are born with these gene changes. But gene changes also happen after we are born. Read more
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder. They help move your arm all around. You use them when you reach up, or reach your back. A rotator cuff tear is a tear in one of the tendons. Wear and tear or age can weaken Read more
A disease is defined by a certain set of symptoms or test results. A rare, or orphan, disease affects only a small number of people. There are thousands of rare diseases. But, only a few hundred have any treatments. Rare diseases are often hard to diagnose. Sometimes, we cannot make Read more
DNA contains the instructions for making all living things. This includes everything from bacteria and plants to humans. Proteins package DNA into chromosomes so it will fit in our cells. Humans have 23 pairs of chromosomes. We get one set from our mother. This includes one X chromosome. We get Read more
Heart attacks are the leading cause of death in the United States. Many factors can lead to a heart attack. A high fat diet, high blood pressure, diabetes and smoking can all increase your risk of a heart attack. Family history may also play a part. Scientists found that certain Read more
Pancreatitis is when your pancreas becomes swollen and tender. Your pancreas is a long, flat gland found behind the stomach. It makes hormones that help control how your body breaks down sugar. It also makes proteins that help you digest food. These proteins travel to the small intestine where they Read more
Recluse spiders live in the mid-south region of the United States. The area covers 15 states from Nebraska to Ohio, and Texas to Florida. The brown recluse spider is the most common. These spiders have a distinct violin pattern on their back. When recluse spiders bite, they inject venom, or Read more