Health Library


  • Removing a Fishhook

    Do not try to remove a fishhook (seek medical care instead) if any of the following are true: The fishhook is in or near an eye. The fishhook is in a joint, in a bone, or deep in a muscle. You are concerned that removing the fishhook may damage...

  • Fructose or Sorbitol Intolerance

    Fructose and sorbitol are two sugars that often are added to processed foods and medicines to make them taste sweet. Fructose is found in fruits, fruit juice, honey, and high fructose corn syrup. It also can be found in soda pop and fruit drinks.

  • Allergy to Natural Rubber (Latex)

    What is latex allergy? A latex allergy is an allergic reaction that happens after repeated contact with latex, such as latex gloves. It affects people who are often exposed to rubber products. What products may cause latex allergy? Medical products that may contain latex include: Gloves. Drains, tourniquets, urinary...

  • Menopause: Should I Use Hormone Therapy (HT)?

    Guides you through the decision to use hormone therapy (HT) for menopause symptoms. Explains what menopause is and what to expect. Lists risks and benefits of HT and other treatments to try. Includes interactive tool to help you decide.

  • Myths About Tourette's Disorder

    There are many myths about Tourette's disorder (TD).Myths about Tourette's disorder Myth Truth "Everyone who has Tourette's disorder uses obscene words and gestures." Most people who have the condition do not have this symptom. "People who have...

  • Choosing a Health Care Agent

    Discusses role of health care agent if you can't make health care decisions for yourself. Covers medical power of attorney and living will. Includes link to checklist for writing an advance directive.

  • Checklist for Evaluating Hospice Programs

    Once you make the decision to seek hospice care, make your search easier by using this checklist to find out about different programs. Add to it as you think of items that are important to you, and cross off those items that are not useful. Make a copy of this...

  • Advance Directive: What to Include

    An advance directive is a form. It describes the kinds of medical care you want to have if you're badly hurt or have a serious illness and can't speak for yourself. A living will (declaration) and a medical power of attorney (durable power of...

  • Writing an Advance Directive

    Discusses basic types of advance directives. Covers living will and medical power of attorney to appoint a health care agent. Explains when and why advance directive is needed. Lists steps in preparing one.

  • Hospice Care

    Discusses hospice care, which includes medical, emotional, and spiritual care for people who are in the last stages of a serious illness. Guides through decision to seek hospice care. Covers how to choose a program. Covers end-of-life legal issues.