Step-By-Step Guides

immune system

  • Yeast Infection (vaginal)

    WHAT IS IT? A vaginal yeast infection is an inflammation or irritation of the vagina and the tissues at the opening of the vagina (vulva) that causes itchiness and vaginal discharge.Also called vaginal candidiasis, vaginal yeast infection is very common. As many as 3 out of 4 women experience th... View Post

  • Tonsillitis

    WHAT IS IT? Tonsillitis is inflammation of the tonsils at the back of the throat. Most cases of tonsillitis are caused by a viral infection. Less often, a bacterial infection is a culprit. Signs and symptoms may include: Red, swollen tonsils White or yellow coating or patches on the tonsils Sore... View Post

  • Graves’ Disease

    WHAT IS IT?Graves’ disease is an immune system disorder that results in the overproduction of thyroid hormones (hyperthyroidism). Although a number of disorders are associated with hyperthyroidism, Graves’ disease is a common cause.Factors that may increase your risk include having a family histo... View Post

  • Flu (influenza)

    WHAT IS IT?Influenza is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs. Commonly called “the flu,” influenza isn’t the same as stomach “flu” viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting.Flu viruses travel through the air in droplets when an infected person coughs... View Post

  • Fever

    WHAT IS IT?A fever is a temporary increase in body temperature, often due to an illness. Having a fever is a sign that something out of the ordinary is going on in your body.You have a fever when your body temperature rises above its normal range. The average normal temperature is 98.6 F (37 C). ... View Post

  • Diabetes

    WHAT IS IT? Diabetes mellitus refers to a group of diseases that affect how your body uses blood sugar (glucose). Glucose is an important source of energy for the cells that make up your muscles and tissues. It’s also your brain’s main source of fuel. If you have diabetes, it means you have too m... View Post

  • Croup

    WHAT IS IT?Croup, which is most common in young children, is an infection of the upper airway that obstructs breathing and produces a barking cough. It’s typically caused by a virus.Inflammation around the vocal cords, windpipe and bronchial tubes is what produces the respiratory symptoms. When a... View Post

  • Common Cold

    WHAT IS IT?The common cold is a viral infection of your upper respiratory tract — your nose and throat. A common cold is usually harmless, although it may not feel that way at the time.What makes a cold different from other viral infections is that you generally won’t have a high fever. You’re al... View Post