Discusses blood test to check the different types of hemoglobin in the blood. Covers how some diseases, such as sickle cell disease, aplastic anemia, and leukemia, have abnormal types of hemoglobin. Discusses possible test results.

Children usually progress in a natural, predictable sequence from one developmental milestone to the next. But each child grows and gains skills at his or her own pace. Some children may be advanced in one area, such as language. But they may be behind in another, such as sensory and motor development. Milestones...

This may sound obvious, but the best time to choose a hospital is when you don't need one. That way you have the time to compare all the hospitals in your area and think about what your preferences are. You will want to consider what type of hospital you prefer, the hospital's reputation, and how well the hospital fits...

What is the glycemic index? The glycemic index (GI) is a rating system for foods that contain carbohydrate. It helps you know how much these foods raise blood sugar. Carbohydrate raises blood sugar more than other nutrients, like proteins and fats. Some carbohydrate foods raise blood sugar more than others. Low-glycemic...

Gloria, 70 Read more about Gloria and how she manages her diabetes. "Exercise really changed everything for me. The way I feel, my blood sugar, everything. It really works. I never felt better, stronger, healthier, or happier in my life." Gloria hasn't always been an active person. Until she retired a few years ago, she...

Explains what stigma is in relation to mental health conditions. Suggests ways to get past stigma and self-stigma in relationships and at work. Briefly touches on legal concerns and the importance of advance planning documents.

Everyone has some stress. But stress can be bad for your heart. If you have heart disease, stress can lead to angina symptoms and maybe a heart attack. Taking steps to manage stress can improve your health and life. Try different ways to reduce stress, such as exercise, deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Try to change...

A heart failure action plan gives you an easy way to check your symptoms and see changes. The plan also tells you when you need to get help. Your doctor may give you a plan, or you might create one together. You'll use your plan every day. It takes the guesswork out of knowing when symptoms mean you should call your...

Pain is a frustrating, sometimes debilitating aspect of ongoing (chronic) pancreatitis. Many people have pain for many years. Pain may decrease as the damaged pancreas loses its ability to produce enzymes. But it may take years for the pancreas to stop producing enzymes. In many people, this process never occurs. If you...

Preventing a relapse When you have schizophrenia, your symptoms can sometimes come back. This is called a relapse. There are things you can do to help prevent a relapse. Be active in your own recovery. Work with your doctor and take care of yourself. Take your medicine, even if you're feeling better. Not taking medicine...

An injury to the Achilles tendon ( Achilles tendinopathy) can cause pain and stiffness on and above the back of the heel. Bursitis can also cause pain and swelling at the back or bottom of the heel. To prevent and ease pain during work, play, or daily activities: Stay at a weight that's healthy for you. Talk to your...

To prevent and ease knee pain during work, play, and daily activities: Stay at a healthy weight. Wear kneepads when kneeling on hard surfaces. Avoid prolonged kneeling. Strengthen and stretch your leg muscles. Pay special attention to your front and back thigh muscles (quadriceps and hamstrings). Avoid deep knee bends...

Bursitis or a tendon injury (tendinopathy) in the shoulder can cause pain on the outside or front of the upper arm. Common symptoms include pain, pinching, and stiffness when you raise your arm. These symptoms are often brought on by doing repeated overhead movements. Pain from bursitis or a tendon injury can keep you...