English textbooks

What is a peak flow meter? A peak flow meter (PFM) is a device used to measure how well your child’s asthma is under control. The device measures air flowing out of the lungs, called peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR),…

What is an astrocytoma in children? An astrocytoma is a type of brain tumor. A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue in the brain. The brain is part of the central nervous system (CNS). The CNS also includes…

What is ataxia? Ataxia is a loss of muscle control. People with ataxia lose muscle control in their arms and legs. This may lead to a lack of balance and coordination and trouble walking. Ataxia may affect the movements of:…

What is ataxia telangiectasia (A-T)? Ataxia telangiectasia is a rare childhood disease that affects the nervous system, immune system, and other body systems. It is an inherited disease. The symptoms of A-T often begin to show up by age 5. …

What is atherosclerosis? Atherosclerosis thickening or hardening of the arteries. It is caused by a buildup of plaque in the inner lining of an artery.  Plaque is made up of deposits of fatty substances, cholesterol, cellular waste products, calcium, and…

What is atopic dermatitis? Atopic dermatitis is a long-term (chronic) skin disorder. It causes dry, itchy, scaly patches. These are often on the face and the head in babies. It’s most common in infants or very young children. Most will…

What is atopic dermatitis in children? Atopic dermatitis is a long-term (chronic) skin condition. It causes dry, itchy skin. It’s a very common condition in babies and children. It usually first appears between ages 3 and 6 months. What causes atopic dermatitis in a…

What is atrial fibrillation? Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common type of abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia). Normally, a specific group of cells in the right upper heart chamber (atrium) gives the signal to start your heartbeat. These cells are…

What is ablation for atrial fibrillation? Ablation is a procedure to treat atrial fibrillation. It uses small burns or freezes heart cells to cause some scarring on the inside of the heart. This helps break up or insulate the electrical…

What’s the connection between atrial fibrillation and stroke prevention? Atrial fibrillation (AFib) increases the risk for stroke. So stroke prevention is an important part of treatment for atrial fibrillation. AFib is a type of abnormal heart rhythm. The heart has…

What is a Maze procedure? The Maze procedure is a type of heart surgery used to treat atrial fibrillation. The heart has 4 chambers. There are 2 upper chambers called atria and 2 lower chambers called ventricles. Normally, a specialized…

What is atrial flutter? Atrial flutter is one of the more common abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias). It’s caused by an abnormal electrical circuit in the upper chambers of the heart (atria) that makes the atria beat quickly and flutter instead…