Family Resources: Health Library

Immune System Disorders

When your immune system doesn't work the way it should, it is called an immune system disorder. Learn about the different types of immune system disorders.

Immunization Quiz

You can fight off an infectious disease in one of two ways, by catching and surviving the disease or by getting a vaccine, which prevents you from catching it.

Immunoglobulin A (IgA) is a blood protein that's part of your immune system. Your body makes IgA to help fight off sickness. Having an IgA deficiency means that you have low levels or no immunoglobulin A in your bloodstream.

Immunotherapy: What Is It?

Scientists have found a way to use the body's immune system to help treat or defend against a number of health problems. This treatment is known as immunotherapy.

In a Nutshell: Understanding Peanut Allergies

If your child is allergic to peanuts, here's what you need to know.

In Case of Emergency...Be Ready for Anything

Don't wait to think about disaster until you're dealing with one. In the hurried confusion, you're likely to miss important items as you prepare your home or leave to find shelter.

In the Campground: Staying Safe

Planning ahead and being safety-conscious while in the wild can keep everyone safe and secure. Here are suggestions from the U.S. Forest Service and the American Red Cross.

In the Kitchen: Prevent the Spread of Infection

Bacteria can spread anywhere in the kitchen. Read on for a detailed guide to preventing contamination in your kitchen, and tips for cleaning and disinfecting.

Individual Fruit Cup Dessert

Your children can help you make this easy dessert that's colorful and good for them to eat. Have all of your supplies and ingredients ready before you begin.

Indoor Air Can Cause Health Problems

Don't think you're safe just because you're inside. The air in homes and other buildings can be more seriously polluted than the outdoor air in even the largest and most industrialized cities.

Infant Vaccine Quiz

A pregnant woman passes antibodies to her unborn baby through the placenta to protect against certain diseases. How long does this natural immunity last?

Infectious Mononucleosis

Infectious mononucleosis causes swollen lymph glands, fever, sore throat, and chronic fatigue.

Inhaled Corticosteroids for Asthma Control

Inhaled corticosteroids are safe for long-term use for most people. They are not the steroids that you hear about athletes abusing.

Inhalers and Nebulizers for Asthma

Inhalers and nebulizers deliver medicine directly to the lungs. They cause fewer side effects than medicine taken by mouth or injection.

Insomnia

Insomnia is trouble falling to sleep or staying asleep. One in three adults has bouts of insomnia.

Insulin and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Many people with diabetes need to change their treatment plan at some point. There are benefits to this. For instance, taking insulin can make it easier to manage your blood sugar. Read on to learn more.

Insulin Pump Use

Insulin pumps are used most often by people with type 1 diabetes. But some people with type 2 diabetes use them, too. Here's what you need to know about these devices.

Introduction to Menopause

When a woman permanently stops having menstrual periods, she has reached the stage of life called menopause. This stage signals the end of a woman's ability to have children.

Is Bursitis Busting Up the Joint?

Bursitis can make simple movements of your shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee seem monumental.

Is It Time for a New Joint?

Millions of us struggle with pain and loss of motion because of joint damage caused by arthritis. If other treatments fail to offer relief, you may wonder about turning in your worn-out joints for new ones.

Is It Time for Toilet Training?

Make a potty available, show your toddler how it works, then offer gentle encouragement.

Is Your Child at Risk for Hepatitis B?

Hepatitis B is a highly contagious, sexually transmitted infection. It is caused by a virus that attacks the liver. It can possibly cause lifelong liver infection, cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver, liver cancer, and death.

Is Your Teen Abusing Drugs or Alcohol?

Besides having trouble with school and relationships, teens taking drugs may display emotional extremes with irritability, anger, and changes in sleep patterns.

It’s Snow Fun: Skiing and Snowboarding

Snow sports can give you an excellent workout. They are cardio, so they work your heart and lungs, but they also strengthen your bones.

Job Safety Critical for Teens

The main threats to teens are often said to involve drugs, alcohol, or car crashes. But there’s another risk most parents might not think of: work. Tens of thousands of teens are badly hurt at work each year.

Joint Replacement Surgery

Joint replacement surgery removes and replaces an arthritic or damaged joint with an artificial joint. Read on to learn how to get ready for the procedure and what the possible complications are.

Journaling for Emotional Wellness

If you struggle with stress, depression, or anxiety, keeping a journal is a great idea. It can help you gain control of your emotions and improve your mental health.