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Body

  • About the Body Basics Library

    Did you ever wonder what all those complex body systems do? Use this medical library to find out about basic human anatomy, how it all functions, and what happens when things go wrong.

  • Blood

    Find out about the mysterious, life-sustaining fluid called blood.

  • Bones, Muscles, and Joints

    Our bones, muscles, and joints form our musculoskeletal system and enable us to do everyday physical activities.

  • Brain and Nervous System

    If the brain is a central computer that controls all the functions of the body, then the nervous system is like a network that relays messages back and forth to different parts of the body. Find out how they work in this Body Basics article.

  • Digestive System

    Most people think digestion begins when you first put food in your mouth. But the digestive process actually starts even before the food hits your taste buds.

  • Ears

    Hearing is their main job, but it's not all your ears do. Find out all about them in this body basics article for teens.

  • Endocrine System

    The endocrine system influences almost every cell, organ, and function of our bodies. It is instrumental in regulating mood, growth and development, metabolism, and sexual function, among other things.

  • Eyes

    Although your eyes are small, their structure is incredibly complex. Find out how they work in this body basics article.

  • Female Reproductive System

    Why do girls get periods? What goes on when a woman gets pregnant? What can go wrong with the female reproductive system? Find the answers to these questions and more in this article for teens.

  • Heart and Circulatory System

    The heart and circulatory system (also called the cardiovascular system) make up the network that delivers blood to the body's tissues.

  • How Do the Joints Work? (Video)

    See how the joints work.

  • Immune System

    The immune system is made up of special cells, proteins, tissues, and organs that defend people against germs and microorganisms.

  • Kidneys and Urinary Tract

    The kidneys perform several functions that are essential to health, the most important of which are to filter blood and produce urine.

  • Lungs and Respiratory System

    Each day you breathe about 20,000 times. Find out more about the lungs and breathing process.

  • Male Reproductive System

    What makes up a guy's reproductive system and how does it develop? Find the answers to these questions and more.

  • Metabolism

    Your body gets the energy it needs from food through a process called metabolism. Get all the facts on metabolism in this article.

  • Mouth and Teeth

    Did you know that your mouth is the first step in the body's digestive process? Or that the mouth and teeth are essential for speech? Learn about the many roles your mouth and teeth play.

  • Skin, Hair, and Nails

    Our skin protects the network of tissues, muscles, bones, nerves, blood vessels, and everything else inside our bodies. Hair and nails are actually modified types of skin.

  • Spleen and Lymphatic System

    The lymphatic system is an extensive drainage network that helps keep bodily fluid levels in balance and defends the body against infections.

  • 5 Ideas for Better Sleep

    Insomnia can be a big problem for teens. Read our tips on getting a good night's sleep.

  • Backpack Basics

    Backpacks help you to stay organized. They're also better for carrying school supplies than messenger or other shoulder bags. But can they cause health problems?

  • Common Sleep Problems

    Sleep problems can keep some teens awake at night even when they want to sleep. If that sounds like you, find out what you can do.

  • Cuts, Scratches, and Scrapes

    Most small cuts, scrapes, or abrasions heal on their own. Here are tips for teens on how to treat cuts at home - and when to get medical help.

  • Earbuds

    Earbuds are basically a tiny pair of speakers that go inside the ears. They're fine at low volumes, but they can cause permanent hearing loss if not used properly. Find out what's safe (and not) in this article for teens.

  • Easy Exercises for Teens

    Finding it hard to fit in fitness? Try these simple exercises for teens.

  • How Much Sleep Do I Need?

    Teens need about 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night. But you might not be getting it. Here's why - and tips for getting more shut-eye.

  • How to Do a Testicular Self-Exam (Slideshow)

    The testicular self-examination (TSE) is an easy way for guys to check their own testicles to make sure there aren't any unusual lumps or bumps - which are usually the first sign of testicular cancer.

  • Hygiene Basics

    Puberty causes all kinds of changes in your body - and some may not make you feel very desirable. Read this article for information on dealing with greasy hair, perspiration, and body hair.

  • Ingrown Toenails

    A toenail is ingrown when it begins to break through and grow into the soft skin of the toe. Find out more about ingrown toenails.

  • Secondhand Smoke

    Experts now know that breathing in someone else's secondhand smoke is bad for you. Find out what you can do about it.

  • Sickle Cell Trait: 3 Ways to Stay Healthy

    If you have sickle cell trait, find out the best way to keep yourself healthy.

  • Staying at a Healthy Weight

    Here are some practical, everyday tips on making exercise and healthy eating work for you instead of feeling like it's the other way around.

  • Taking Care of Your Teeth

    There's a lot more to taking care of your teeth than breath mints and mouth sprays. Read this article to learn the facts on flossing, how to give plaque the brush-off, and much more.

  • Taking Care of Your Vision

    Even if you're lucky enough to have perfect vision, taking care of and protecting your eyes is vital to keeping your peepers perfect. Learn all about how to take care of your baby blues (or browns or greens) in this article.

  • Tampons, Pads, and Other Period Supplies

    When it comes to pads and tampons, there are lots of choices. It may take some experimenting before you find what works best for you. Here are some tips.

  • Technology: 5 Ways To Reboot Yourself

    Sending and receiving messages late at night can disrupt your sleep and leave you tired and unfocused when it's time for school.

  • Tips for Taking Care of Your Skin

    Sometimes it may seem like your skin is impossible to manage, especially when you find a huge zit on your nose or a cold sore at the corner of your mouth. Here are ways to prevent and treat common skin problems.

  • What Causes Bad Breath?

    Bad breath, or halitosis, can be a major problem, especially when you're about to snuggle with your sweetie or whisper a joke to your friend. The good news is that bad breath often can be easily prevented.

  • Why Exercise Is Wise

    Getting the right amount of exercise can rev up your energy levels and even help you to feel better emotionally. Find out why.

  • 5 Tips for Dealing With Shots

    If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips.

  • 5 Ways to Fight the Flu

    Get tips for fending off the flu in this article for teens.

  • 5 Ways to Stay Healthy for the Holidays

    Stay well and have a good time over the holidays - even if everyone else is falling apart. Our 5 tips will help boost your body's defenses.

  • Blood Types

    Blood might look the same and do the same job, but tiny cell markers mean one person's body can reject another person's blood. Find out how blood types work in this article for teens.

  • Donating Blood

    There's a 97% chance that someone you know will need a blood transfusion. Blood donors — especially donors with certain blood types — are always in demand. Find out what's involved in this article for teens.

  • Figuring Out Health News

    News reports on health and medicine can be confusing —and sometimes downright scary. How do you know what is important and accurate?

  • Genes and Genetics

    Genes play an important role in how we look and act, and even in whether we get sick. This article gives the lowdown on genes, genetic disorders, and new research into gene therapy.

  • Getting Rid of Old Medicines

    Medicines can cause problems if they get into the water supply or the wrong hands. Find out how to dispose of old or unused meds safely in this article for teens.

  • Hand Washing: Why It's So Important

    Did you know that the most important thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands? If you don't wash your hands frequently, you can pick up germs from other sources and then infect yourself.

  • Health Insurance Basics

    Taking charge of your own health care is a big step, and it can be a little overwhelming. Here's a quick crash course on insurance for teens.

  • Health Insurance: Cracking the Code

    Health insurance has a language all its own. This article for teens explains what some key terms mean.

  • How Can I Deal With Nightmares?

    Nightmares aren't completely preventable, but you can set the stage for a peaceful night's rest.

  • How to Fill a Prescription

    Taking responsibility for your own health care means understanding things like prescriptions. Read our tips for teens on filling a prescription.

  • Refilling a Prescription

    Tips and advice for teens on refilling a prescription.

  • Vaccine Basics

    Missing out on shots puts you at more serious risk than you might think. That one little "ouch" moment protects you from some major health problems.

  • What Does It Mean to Be a Carrier for a Genetic Condition?

    Find out what it means to be a carrier for a genetic condition.

  • What's the Difference Between Infectious and Contagious?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Your Medical Records

    Each time you hop up on a doctor's exam table, somebody makes a note in your medical records. There may come a time when you need your medical information, so find out how to get it and how it's protected.

  • 5 Tips for Dealing With Shots

    If you're afraid of shots, you're not alone. Next time your doc asks you to roll up your sleeve, try these tips.

  • ADHD Medicines

    Medicine doesn’t cure ADHD. But it does help boost a person's ability to pay attention, slow down, and have more self-control. This article for teens has details on how ADHD medicines help.

  • Adolescent Medicine Specialists

    Adolescent medicine doctors are specialists who have extra training in the medical and emotional issues that many teens face.

  • All About Orthodontia

    Just getting braces and have no idea what to expect? Had braces for a while but wonder what's going on in there? Whatever your situation is, you're not alone: millions of teens have braces.

  • Allergy Testing

    Doctors use several different types of allergy tests, depending on what a person may be allergic to. Find out what to expect from allergy tests.

  • Anesthesia

    Here's a basic look at what anesthesia does.

  • Anesthesia - What to Expect

    Here's a quick look at what may happen before, during, and after you get anesthesia.

  • Blood Test: Basic Metabolic Panel

    A basic metabolic panel (BMP) is a group of blood tests that provide doctors with clues about how the body is working. Find out why doctors do this and what's involved for teens.

  • Blood Test: Complete Blood Count

    This common blood test helps doctors gather information about a person's blood cells and how they're working. Find out why doctors do this test and what's involved.

  • Blood Test: Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

    This group of blood tests provides doctors with clues about how the body is working. Find out why doctors do these tests and what's involved for teens.

  • Blood Test: Liver Function Tests

    If your liver isn't working properly, it can affect your overall health. Find out why doctors do liver function tests and what's involved for teens.

  • Blood Transfusions

    Millions of people a year get blood transfusions in the United States. This article explains why people need them and who donates the blood used.

  • Blood Types

    Blood might look the same and do the same job, but tiny cell markers mean one person's body can reject another person's blood. Find out how blood types work in this article for teens.

  • Breast Exams

    It's rare for teen girls to have breast problems. But sometimes a doctor or nurse might think a breast exam is a good idea. Find out why, as well as what's involved in a breast exam.

  • Breast Reduction Surgery

    Breast reduction surgery is a procedure that makes large breasts smaller. It can help when large breasts create problems.

  • Chemotherapy

    Chemotherapy (chemo) is treatment with medicines that stop the growth of cancer cells. Find out how chemo works and what to expect when getting treatment.

  • Choosing Your Own Doctor

    You deserve medical care from someone who helps you feel comfortable and understood. Get tips on finding the best doctor for you.

  • Electronic Health Records

    Because EHRs improve how well your doctors talk to each other and coordinate your treatment, they can enhance your medical care. Get the facts on electronic health records.

  • Feeling Comfortable With a Doctor of a Different Gender

    Seeing a new doctor can feel awkward if the person is a different gender and the visit is about something sensitive. These tips can help you feel more at ease.

  • Getting a Blood Test

    Blood tests help doctors check how the body’s organs are working and see if medical treatments are helpful. Here's how they're done.

  • Getting Rid of Old Medicines

    Medicines can cause problems if they get into the water supply or the wrong hands. Find out how to dispose of old or unused meds safely in this article for teens.

  • Gyn Checkups

    Girls should get their first gynecological checkup between ages 13 and 15. Find out what happens during a yearly gyn visit -- and why most girls don't get internal exams.

  • Having a Healthy Pregnancy

    Whether you feel confused, worried, scared, or excited, you'll want to know how your life will change, what you can do to have a healthy baby.

  • Health Insurance Basics

    Taking charge of your own health care is a big step, and it can be a little overwhelming. Here's a quick crash course on insurance for teens.

  • Health Insurance: Cracking the Code

    Health insurance has a language all its own. This article for teens explains what some key terms mean.

  • How Can I Take Charge of My Own Medical Care?

    Find out how to take charge of managing your medical care.

  • I Think I Have a Mental Health Problem. Who Can I Talk To?

    If you have a mental health problem or you just need support through a tough time, it can help to talk with someone. Here's how teens can find that help.

  • Medical Tests: What to Expect (Video)

    Need to get a blood test? An MRI? These videos show what happens in 10 of the most common medical tests.

  • Pap Smears

    A Pap smear is a medical test that helps doctors figure out if there are any problems with a girl's cervix. Find out what happens during a Pap smear.

  • Pelvic Exams

    A pelvic exam is where a doctor or nurse practitioner looks at a girl's reproductive organs (both outside and internally) and feels the uterus and ovaries to be sure everything's normal. Find out what's involved in this article for teens.

  • Physical Therapy

    Physical therapy helps people get back to full strength and movement - and manage pain - in key parts of the body after an illness or injury.

  • Plastic Surgery

    Lots of images may come to mind when you think of plastic surgery. This special type of surgery involves a person's appearance and ability to function.

  • Questions You Can Ask Your Doctor

    You're probably used to answering your doctor's questions, not asking your own. But it's your body, and you can ask about anything you want. Here are ideas to help you get started.

  • Sickle Cell Disease: Take Charge of Your Health

    Find ways to feel good and live a healthy life with sickle cell disease.

  • Sickle Cell Trait: 3 Ways to Stay Healthy

    If you have sickle cell trait, find out the best way to keep yourself healthy.

  • Taking Charge of Your Medical Care

    Figuring out health care is part of becoming an independent adult. Here are tips for teens on what that involves, and how to choose your own doctor.

  • Talking to Your Doctor

    People who play a role in their own health care make better decisions and stay healthier. Here are tips for teens on how (and why) to build a bond with your doctor.

  • Testicular Exams

    You may be wondering why the doctor needs to do a testicular exam. Find out in this article.

  • The Flu Vaccine

    Doctors recommend that all teens get vaccinated against the flu. Here are the facts on flu vaccines.

  • Understanding Medicines and What They Do

    Medicines can cure, stop, or prevent disease; ease symptoms; or help in the diagnosis of illnesses. This article describes different types of medications and offers tips on taking them.

  • What to Expect When Your Cast Comes Off

    You probably can't wait to get back to your normal activities, but it takes a while for a limb that's been in a cast to finish healing. Here's what to expect.

  • What's It Like to Have Surgery?

    Knowing what to expect with surgery before you get to the hospital can make you less anxious about your surgical experience - and less stress helps a person recover faster.

  • What's It Like to Stay in the Hospital?

    Scheduled for a hospital stay? Knowing what to expect can make it a little easier.

  • What's the Difference Between a Treatment and a Cure?

    Doctors can treat medical problems and sometimes cure them. But what's the difference between a "treatment" and a "cure"? Find out.

  • Why Do Doctors Press on Your Stomach During a Checkup?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Wound Healing and Care

    How well a wound heals depends on where it is on the body and what caused it – as well as how well someone cares for the wound at home. Find out what to do in this article for teens.

  • Acanthosis Nigricans

    Acanthosis nigricans is a darkening and thickening of the skin that can be a sign of other medical conditions. Find out more.

  • Acne

    Almost every teen gets acne at some point. This article addresses common questions and concerns about acne and tells you what you can do about it.

  • Blisters, Calluses, and Corns

    Blisters, calluses, and corns can be uncomfortable, but they're also pretty common and easy to prevent. Find out what to do in this article for teens.

  • Body Piercing

    Wondering whether you should pierce one of your precious parts? Read about what to expect.

  • Bruises

    Learn about bruises, why they happen, how to make them go away faster, and why they turn all those funny colors.

  • Can Acne Scars Be Removed?

    Scars from acne can seem like double punishment - first you had to suffer through the pimples, now you have marks to remind you. Is there anything you can do?

  • Cellulite

    Cellulite is the lumpy look ("cottage cheese") commonly found on the thighs, stomach, and butt. It's due to collections of fat that push against the connective tissue beneath the skin.

  • Cold Sores (HSV-1)

    Cold sores (also known as fever blisters) are pretty common and lots of people get them. So what causes them and what can you do?

  • Cuts, Scratches, and Scrapes

    Most small cuts, scrapes, or abrasions heal on their own. Here are tips for teens on how to treat cuts at home - and when to get medical help.

  • Dandruff

    If you're worried about dandruff, you're not alone. Dandruff can start in puberty, and lots of teens and adults live with it. Learn how to control it.

  • Eczema

    Eczema is a common skin problem. Find out more about it and how you can deal with the skin stress.

  • Hair Removal

    You can buy dozens of products for getting rid of unwanted hair. How do they work? And how do you use them?

  • Hand Washing: Why It's So Important

    Did you know that the most important thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands? If you don't wash your hands frequently, you can pick up germs from other sources and then infect yourself.

  • Head Lice

    Lice aren't dangerous, but they do spread from person to person easily. They can also be hard to get rid of. Find out how to prevent lice -- and what to do if someone you know has them.

  • Hives (Urticaria)

    Hives cause raised red bumps or welts on the skin. They're pretty common and usually not serious. Find out what to do about hives in this article for teens.

  • I Got Blisters From a Sunburn. What Should I Do?

    Find out what the experts have to say.

  • Indoor Tanning

    Tanning beds are no safer than the sun -- and may be even more dangerous. Read this article to get the details, and to find out what is safe when it comes to getting that golden glow.

  • Ingrown Toenails

    A toenail is ingrown when it begins to break through and grow into the soft skin of the toe. Find out more about ingrown toenails.

  • Melanoma

    Melanoma is different from other skin cancers because it can spread if it's not caught early. Find out how to lower your risk of getting melanoma and how doctors treat it.

  • Molluscum Contagiosum

    The skin rash molluscum contagiosum isn't a big deal. Find out what to do about it in this article for teens.

  • Shaving

    Follow these shaving tips for guys and get a quick, easy, and painless shave.

  • Stretch Marks

    Your skin is usually fairly elastic, but when you grow or gain weight really quickly (like during puberty), you may get fine lines on your body called stretch marks.

  • Tanning

    The sun can do a lot more than just give you a warm summer glow. Get the facts on sun and skin damage - and what you can do to protect yourself and still look tan.

  • Tattoos

    What's the safest way to get a tattoo? Does it hurt? What can go wrong? Knowing the facts will help you decide whether a tattoo is a good idea for you.

  • Tips for Taking Care of Your Skin

    Sometimes it may seem like your skin is impossible to manage, especially when you find a huge zit on your nose or a cold sore at the corner of your mouth. Here are ways to prevent and treat common skin problems.

  • Vitiligo

    Vitiligo is a loss of skin pigment that causes white spots or patches to appear on the skin. It's not medically dangerous, but it can affect a person's appearance. Find out more.

  • Warts

    Most warts are easy to treat and are rarely cause for alarm. Read this article for more information on warts and how to get rid of them.

  • What Can I Do About Acne?

    There's no sure way to prevent acne. But these tips might help reduce the number and severity of your breakouts.

What next?

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