Health Library


  • Hemodialysis

    Discusses process of hemodialysis when chronic kidney disease and acute kidney injury cause kidneys to lose ability to remove waste and extra fluid. Covers fistulas and grafts. Looks at what to expect after treatment. Discusses peritoneal dialysis.

  • Kidney Transplant

    Discusses surgery to replace a diseased kidney with a healthy one. Explains what a living donor is. Covers what to expect after surgery. Looks at risks. Links to picture of kidney transplant. Links to more in-depth info on organ transplant.

  • Self-Care Supplies

    More of your health care takes place in your home than anywhere else. Having the right tools, medicines, supplies, and information on hand is important for your self-care. Most of the items below don't cost a lot. They are easy to use and can be bought at most drugstores and...

  • Intraoperative Cholangiogram

    An intraoperative cholangiogram is a procedure that is sometimes done during the surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). The doctor places a small tube called a catheter into the cystic duct, which drains bile from the gallbladder into...

  • Postcholecystectomy Syndrome

    Postcholecystectomy syndrome sometimes occurs when abdominal symptoms develop after surgery to remove the gallbladder (cholecystectomy). Symptoms of postcholecystectomy syndrome may include: Upset stomach, nausea, and vomiting. Gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Persistent pain in the upper right abdomen. Your doctor may be...

  • Heavy Sweating

    Sweating is your body's way of cooling down and getting rid of some chemicals. Sometimes heavy sweating is normal. You may sweat a lot when you exercise, when you are too hot, or when you are frightened. It's normal for teenagers to sweat more than...

  • Glycemic Index

    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.

  • Common Types of Hernias

    Provides information on common hernias, including abdominal, incisional, and umbilical hernias. Briefly covers symptoms and treatment with surgery.

  • Warfarin: Taking Your Medicine Safely

    Warfarin is a medicine that you take to prevent blood clots. It is often called a blood thinner. Doctors give warfarin to reduce the risk of blood clots. You may be at risk for blood clots if you have atrial fibrillation or deep vein thrombosis.

  • Helping Your Child Who Is Overweight

    How do you know if your child is overweight? Doctors use the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention growth charts or the body mass index (BMI) to measure a child's weight compared to their height. If you are concerned that your child is—or could become—overweight, talk about this with...