Health journal
Health you can understand.
Guides on symptoms, first aid, prevention and tests, written in plain language and checked against medical sources.
146 guides
Symptoms
43 guides
Symptoms · 6 min readHemorrhoids: symptoms, causes and reliefHemorrhoids: what they are, typical symptoms, home care that helps, office procedures, and the bleeding signs that need a doctor's exam.
Symptoms · 7 min readHand, foot and mouth disease: symptoms and home careHand, foot and mouth disease: typical symptoms, easing mouth pain, spotting dehydration, how long it spreads and when to call a doctor.
Symptoms · 8 min readUrinary tract infection (UTI): symptoms and treatmentUTI symptoms, who is at risk, when a urine test is needed, what helps at home, how to prevent repeat infections and the warning signs of a kidney infection.
Symptoms · 8 min readFlu symptoms vs a cold: how to tell and what to doFlu symptoms vs a cold: how fast they start, which signs point to flu, what helps at home, and the warning signs that need urgent care.
Symptoms · 7 min readKidney stones: symptoms, treatment and preventionWhat kidney stones feel like, the signs that need urgent care, how doctors find and treat them, and the water, salt and calcium habits that help prevent more.
Symptoms · 8 min readCOVID symptoms: tests, home care and when to get helpCOVID-19 today: symptoms, when and how to test, home care, when you can go back to normal, who is at higher risk, long COVID and warning signs.
Symptoms · 7 min readTinnitus: ringing in the ears, causes and what helpsTinnitus is a symptom, not a disease. Learn the common causes, which signs need urgent care and which options, such as sound therapy and CBT, help.
Symptoms · 8 min readConstipation: what helps, what doesn't, when to see a doctorConstipation: what it means, common causes, how to add fiber and fluids, how laxative types differ, and the warning signs that need medical care.
Symptoms · 7 min readScarlet fever: symptoms, treatment, how long contagiousScarlet fever explained: sore throat, fever, then a rough rash and a red tongue. Why antibiotics matter, when a child stops being contagious and warning signs.
Symptoms · 8 min readGallstones: symptoms, when to wait and when surgery helpsGallstones: how a gallbladder attack feels, why stones without symptoms are usually left alone, warning signs, treatment options and life after surgery.
Symptoms · 8 min readLower back pain: what to do and when to worryLower back pain explained: what to do in the first days, why gentle movement beats bed rest, when imaging is needed and the warning signs that need urgent care.
Symptoms · 7 min readSore throat: causes, home care and when to see a doctorMost sore throats come from viruses and clear up on their own. See what soothes the pain, when strep throat is likely and which signs need urgent care.
Symptoms · 8 min readKnee pain: causes, home care and when to get checkedKnee pain explained: common causes after an injury and without one, home care, why exercise and weight matter for arthritis, and warning signs that need care.
Symptoms · 7 min readCarpal tunnel syndrome: symptoms, causes and treatmentNumb, tingling fingers that wake you at night often mean carpal tunnel syndrome. See what causes it, what helps at home and when to get it checked.
Symptoms · 9 min readSinusitis: symptoms, causes and when it is not a coldHow to tell a long cold from a sinus infection, why antibiotics are often unnecessary, safe nasal rinsing, home care, and warning signs.
Symptoms · 7 min readHeart palpitations: causes, tests and when to worryHeart palpitations: what they feel like, common causes from caffeine to arrhythmias, how to track episodes, tests and red flags that need 911.
Symptoms · 8 min readDizziness: common causes and what to do about itDizziness: how to describe it, common causes from inner-ear problems to blood pressure and medicines, what to do during a spell and when to call 911.
Symptoms · 7 min readHeartburn: causes, relief and when to see a doctorHeartburn is a burning feeling in the chest from stomach acid. See common triggers, habits that help, medicine classes and when it needs a doctor.
Symptoms · 8 min readMigraine symptoms vs tension headache: how to tellHow migraine and tension-type headache differ in pain, symptoms and duration, what aura is, common triggers, the painkiller trap and when to get help fast.
Symptoms · 9 min readGastritis: symptoms, H. pylori testing and treatmentWhat gastritis means, why H. pylori is the thing to test for, how testing and treatment work, why a follow-up test matters, and warning signs.
Symptoms · 8 min readCough: when it clears up and when to see a doctorCough explained: how long it normally lasts, common causes of a lingering cough, what helps at home, why antibiotics rarely help and when to get care.
Symptoms · 8 min readAbdominal pain: how to describe it and when it is urgentAbdominal pain: what location and pattern can suggest, how to describe it to a clinician, common causes, and the signs that mean you should call 911.
Symptoms · 7 min readShoulder pain: causes, frozen shoulder and what helpsShoulder pain: rotator cuff trouble, impingement and frozen shoulder compared, what to do in the first weeks, imaging and red flags, including heart attack.
Symptoms · 7 min readBloating: causes, IBS and what actually helpsBloating is common and often tied to irritable bowel syndrome. See how IBS is diagnosed, how to use a food diary and a low FODMAP trial, and the red flags.
Symptoms · 8 min readNormal body temperature and how to take it correctlyNormal body temperature and how to take it: the usual range, what counts as a fever, thermometer technique, mistakes to avoid and when to get help.
Symptoms · 7 min readShortness of breath: causes and when to get helpBeing out of breath after a hard climb is normal. Learn when breathlessness points to the lungs, heart or anxiety, which tests help and when to call 911.
Symptoms · 9 min readLeg cramps at night: causes, relief and preventionHow to stop a leg cramp in seconds, what causes night cramps, what reduces them, why magnesium disappoints, and when cramps need a doctor.
Symptoms · 7 min readEar pain: causes, home care and when to see a doctorEar pain explained: common causes, what helps at home, why not to poke the ear, when antibiotics are needed, how it differs in children, and urgent signs.
Symptoms · 7 min readPeriod cramps: relief, PMS and when pain isn't normalPainful periods are common but not something you have to simply endure. See what helps, how PMS is diagnosed and when pain needs a medical check.
Symptoms · 9 min readSwollen legs: causes, home care and warning signsWhy swelling in one leg or both matters, common causes and medicines that trigger it, what helps at home, and warning signs of a clot.
Symptoms · 7 min readSeasonal allergies: symptoms, relief and how to copeSeasonal allergies (hay fever): how to tell them from a cold, pollen avoidance, which medicines are used, allergy shots and urgent warning signs.
Symptoms · 7 min readNausea and vomiting: what helps and when to get helpNausea and vomiting: common causes, how to drink and eat while it settles, what else helps, and the warning signs that need medical help.
Symptoms · 6 min readCanker sores: causes, how long they last and what helpsCanker sores in plain words: what they look like, common triggers, how to soothe the pain, how they differ from cold sores and when to get a sore checked.
Symptoms · 7 min readCrohn's disease: symptoms, causes, tests and treatmentCrohn's disease: typical symptoms, what is known about causes and smoking, how doctors diagnose it, treatment classes, diet and warning signs.
Symptoms · 7 min readDiverticulitis: symptoms, causes and when to get helpDiverticulitis: how the pain and fever typically feel, what raises the risk, how doctors confirm and treat it, and which signs mean urgent care.
Symptoms · 7 min readFibromyalgia: symptoms, diagnosis and what helpsFibromyalgia in plain words: the symptoms, why no single test confirms it, what helps day to day and when to see a doctor.
Symptoms · 7 min readLyme disease: symptoms, rash, testing and preventionLyme disease from a tick bite: the early rash and flu-like signs, later complications, how testing works, treatment and how to prevent tick bites.
Symptoms · 7 min readPancreatitis: symptoms, causes and when it is an emergencyPancreatitis explained: upper belly pain that spreads to the back, gallstones and alcohol as the main causes, the red flags for 911, tests and treatment.
Symptoms · 6 min readPink eye (conjunctivitis): causes, symptoms and carePink eye (conjunctivitis): the three main types, symptoms, home care, when antibiotics help, how long it spreads and when to see a doctor.
Symptoms · 2 min readSudden hearing loss: why you should not waitWhat to do when hearing suddenly drops in one or both ears, why a blocked feeling may not be earwax and what to tell a clinician during urgent assessment.- Symptoms · 2 min readLong COVID: fatigue, pacing and preparing for careUnderstand persistent symptoms after COVID-19, post-exertional worsening, activity diaries and the importance of an individual rehabilitation plan.
- Symptoms · 2 min readEndometriosis: symptoms, diagnosis and a pain diaryWhen period pain needs assessment, how endometriosis is investigated, what treatment discussions involve and how to prepare a useful symptom diary.
- Symptoms · 2 min readPCOS: irregular periods, hormones and metabolic healthUnderstand PCOS symptoms, why an ultrasound alone is not a diagnosis, metabolic health checks and the questions to bring to a medical appointment in 2026.
Prevention
39 guides
Prevention · 7 min readGout: symptoms, causes, attack relief and preventionGout is crystal-driven arthritis, not a punishment for rich food. Here is what a flare looks like, what helps early and how to prevent the next one.
Prevention · 7 min readOsteoporosis: symptoms, risks and bone protectionOsteoporosis: who is at risk, how a bone density scan works, which exercise helps, and how to lower the chance of a fracture.
Prevention · 9 min readCOPD: symptoms, treatment and living with itCOPD explained: the symptoms, why spirometry is the key test, how quitting smoking, inhalers and pulmonary rehab help, and what to do during a flare-up.
Prevention · 8 min readOsteoarthritis: symptoms, treatment and exerciseOsteoarthritis explained: symptoms, risk factors, why movement and weight management come first, medicines in general terms, and when surgery is discussed.
Prevention · 9 min readType 2 diabetes: managing it day to day without mythsLiving with type 2 diabetes: what to monitor beyond glucose, regular eye, kidney and foot checks, treating low blood sugar, sick days and remission.
Prevention · 7 min readAsthma: symptoms, inhalers and how to keep it controlledAsthma can usually be kept under control. Learn the symptoms, the two kinds of inhaler, signs it is slipping, your action plan and when an attack needs 911.
Prevention · 8 min readHigh blood pressure: how to manage it day to dayHigh blood pressure: why it is silent, how it is diagnosed, lifestyle changes that help, taking medicine daily and when a reading is an emergency.
Prevention · 8 min readDeep vein thrombosis and long flights: risk and preventionDeep vein thrombosis and long flights: the real risk, who is more likely to get a clot, what helps on the way, aspirin, and symptoms to act on.
Prevention · 7 min readEarly signs of pregnancy: first-trimester checklistA first-trimester checklist: folic acid, booking prenatal care, a list of your medicines, foods to limit, easing nausea and urgent warning signs.
Prevention · 8 min readAtrial fibrillation: symptoms, stroke risk, treatmentAtrial fibrillation explained: why stroke prevention matters most, symptoms and diagnosis, blood thinners, rate and rhythm control, and the lifestyle changes that help.
Prevention · 8 min readHeadache diary: what to write down for your doctorHow to keep a headache diary: the fields to record, how to log medicine safely, how to prepare for your visit, and the red flags that need help right away.
Prevention · 9 min readMenopause symptoms: what happens and what helpsMenopause explained: the stages, common symptoms and how long they last, non-hormonal help, hormone therapy in general terms, and bleeding that always needs a check.
Prevention · 8 min readStrength training: why every adult needs it and how to startStrength training for adults: how often, what it does for muscles, bones and blood sugar, which movements to use, how to progress safely and when to stop.
Prevention · 7 min readHow much water to drink a day: needs, signs and habitsHow much water to drink a day: no single rule fits everyone. What counts, early signs of low fluid, who needs extra care and when to call for help.
Prevention · 8 min readDental care: how to brush, floss and protect your gumsDental care explained: brushing and cleaning between teeth, fluoride, bleeding gums as a warning sign, sugar and dry mouth, and when to book a dentist.
Prevention · 6 min readEye strain from screens: the 20-20-20 rule and moreEye strain from screens: why blinking drops, how the 20-20-20 rule and screen setup help, dry eye care and when to see an eye doctor.
Prevention · 7 min readStretching exercises: benefits and how to stretch safelyStretching explained: what it does for flexibility and comfort, dynamic warm-ups versus static stretches, how long to hold, which areas to focus on and safety tips.
Prevention · 7 min readBirth control methods: options, effectiveness, choosingA plain guide to birth control methods: how well each works in real life, which protect against STIs, emergency options and how to choose.
Prevention · 9 min readProstate health: symptoms, PSA test and what to checkUrinary symptoms worth checking, how an enlarged prostate differs from cancer, what a PSA result means, and why screening is a shared decision.
Prevention · 8 min readHow to quit smoking: a plan that survives slip-upsHow to quit smoking: a step-by-step plan with a quit date, nicotine replacement and support, coping with cravings, handling slips and the benefits of quitting.
Prevention · 7 min readBenefits of walking: a safe way to startWalking for health explained: the benefits, how much is recommended, a talk test for pace, a gradual start plan, footwear tips and when to stop or see a clinician.
Prevention · 7 min readHow to measure blood pressure at home, step by stepHow to measure blood pressure at home: preparation, posture, taking at least two readings, keeping a log and when high readings need urgent care.
Prevention · 7 min readFall prevention for seniors: what actually worksFalls are preventable. See which steps help most for older adults, from balance exercise and medicine reviews to home changes and what to do after a fall.
Prevention · 7 min readHow to wash your hands: technique that cuts infectionThe steps and timing for effective handwashing, when to wash, when sanitizer is enough, whether antibacterial soap helps, and how to protect skin.
Prevention · 7 min readRunning for beginners: how to start and stay injury-freeRunning for beginners: start with run-walk intervals, use the talk test for pace, rest between runs, handle shin pain and know when to stop or see a doctor.
Prevention · 8 min readAdult vaccinations: which shots and whenAdult vaccinations explained: the CDC schedule at a glance, how to track down lost records, travel vaccine timing, special groups and what side effects to expect.
Prevention · 7 min readDesk ergonomics: workstation setup to protect your backDesk ergonomics: set the chair, monitor and keyboard step by step, build movement into the workday and know when pain or numbness needs a doctor.
Prevention · 8 min readPreconception health: a checklist before pregnancyWhat to do before you conceive: folic acid, a medicine review, vaccines, managing chronic conditions, lifestyle changes, timing, and when to seek help.
Prevention · 8 min readAlcohol and health: risks, standard drinks, cutting backAlcohol and health: what counts as a standard drink, effects on sleep, blood pressure, liver and cancer risk, cutting back and when withdrawal is dangerous.- Prevention · 7 min readHow to prepare for a doctor appointment: a checklistA practical checklist for a doctor visit: your top questions, symptom notes, medicine list, records to bring, what to ask and what to confirm before you leave.
Prevention · 7 min readRecovery after illness: how to ease back into exerciseAfter a cold or flu, wait until the fever is gone, start light and short, build up slowly and stop for chest pain or unusual breathlessness. Here is how.- Prevention · 2 min readMedicine and supplement interactions: make a safer listPrepare a complete medicine and supplement list, check possible interactions with a pharmacist and understand why not to stop prescribed treatment on your own.
- Prevention · 2 min readDiabetes foot care: a daily check that mattersHow to inspect feet with diabetes, avoid preventable skin injuries and recognise changes that need prompt professional care even when they do not hurt.
- Prevention · 2 min readPelvic floor training: leakage, technique and next stepsWhen pelvic floor exercises may help urinary leakage, why technique and relaxation matter and when pain or difficulty emptying needs a different assessment.
- Prevention · 2 min readMeasles exposure: what to do before and after a rashWhat to do after measles exposure, why to call before attending a clinic, which vaccination details to prepare and when symptoms need emergency care.
- Prevention · 2 min readAntibiotics: when they help and how to use them safelyWhy antibiotics do not treat viral colds, what antimicrobial resistance means and what to ask about a prescription, treatment duration and side effects.
- Prevention · 2 min readGLP-1 obesity treatment: questions to ask in 2026Understand the WHO guidance on GLP-1 medicines for obesity, treatment planning, product safety and the questions to discuss with your clinician in 2026.
- Prevention · 2 min readHPV and cervical screening: understanding your next stepHow HPV testing, cervical cytology and vaccination differ, what a positive screening result means and which symptoms need assessment between routine tests.
- Prevention · 2 min readRSV in babies: breathing, feeding and preventionLearn which RSV symptoms in babies need urgent care, what to monitor at home and how to discuss infant RSV prevention with your child's clinician.
Skin
16 guides
Skin · 8 min readShingles: early signs, treatment and the vaccineShingles is the chickenpox virus waking up: one-sided pain, then blisters. Why early antivirals matter, who can catch chickenpox from it, and who needs the vaccine.
Skin · 7 min readPsoriasis: symptoms, treatment and joint risksPsoriasis is a chronic immune condition, not an infection. Learn the types, triggers, treatment options, joint warning signs and when to get urgent help.
Skin · 6 min readHives: what they look like, causes and treatmentHives (urticaria): how to recognize them, acute vs chronic, triggers, what helps at home, treatment and when swelling needs 911.
Skin · 8 min readMelanoma: the ABCDE rule and how to check your molesMelanoma often shows up as a new or changing mole. The ABCDE rule, who is at higher risk, hidden spots to check, and when to see a clinician.
Skin · 8 min readChickenpox: symptoms, treatment and how long it lastsChickenpox in children and adults: the stages of the rash, how long it is contagious, home care, who needs a doctor fast, and the two-dose vaccine.
Skin · 8 min readRosacea: causes, symptoms and how to control itRosacea: what causes lasting facial redness, how it differs from acne, common triggers, skin care, treatment options and eye warning signs.
Skin · 8 min readEczema (atopic dermatitis): daily care and flare-upsEczema (atopic dermatitis): the broken skin barrier, daily moisturizer routine, topical steroids and other options, triggers and signs of infection.
Skin · 8 min readAcne: causes, skincare basics and when to see a doctorAcne: what causes it, a gentle skincare routine, the main over-the-counter and prescription options, mistakes to avoid and when to see a doctor.
Skin · 8 min readHair loss: causes, treatment and when to see a doctorHair loss explained: what is normal shedding, the main types, causes such as stress, iron and thyroid problems, what treatments exist and when to get help.
Skin · 6 min readItchy skin with no rash: causes and what helpsItching with nothing to see is usually dry skin, but sometimes it signals an internal cause. Learn what to try at home and when to get it checked.
Skin · 7 min readNail fungus: symptoms, treatment and how long it takesNail fungus makes nails thick, brittle and discolored, and clears only as a healthy nail grows out. See treatments, prevention and who needs a checkup.
Skin · 7 min readExcessive sweating: causes, treatments and when to worryExcessive sweating (hyperhidrosis): what causes it, antiperspirant at bedtime, everyday fixes, medical treatments and when sweating needs a doctor.
Skin · 7 min readSun protection: how to pick SPF and avoid sunburnA practical guide to sun protection: check the UV index, layer shade, clothing and sunglasses, choose broad-spectrum SPF, apply and reapply, and protect babies.
Skin · 6 min readBed bug bites: what they look like and what to doBed bug bites: how to recognize them, soothe the itch, spot infection or allergy, check a bed or hotel room, and get rid of the bugs safely.
Skin · 7 min readImpetigo: symptoms, treatment and how long it spreadsImpetigo explained: red sores with golden crusts, how it spreads, why it needs antibiotic treatment, daily hygiene, and when children can go back to school.
Skin · 7 min readScabies: symptoms, how it spreads and how it is treatedScabies explained: the night itch and rash, how the mite spreads, why everyone at home is treated together, what to wash, and when to see a doctor.
Nutrition
15 guides
Nutrition · 9 min readMediterranean diet: what to eat and what research showsWhat the Mediterranean diet includes, what research shows for heart health, how to adapt it to local food and budget, and a four-week plan to start.
Nutrition · 9 min readIntermittent fasting: what is proven and what is hypeCommon fasting schedules, how results compare with regular calorie cutting, what is known about autophagy, who should not fast and how to begin safely.
Nutrition · 6 min readOmega 3 and healthy fats: what to eat instead of whatOmega-3 and dietary fats: swap saturated fat for unsaturated, eat fish twice a week, skip trans fat, and know what supplements can and cannot do.
Nutrition · 7 min readHow to lose weight safely without crash dietsLasting weight loss is built on small habits you can keep, not crash diets. Realistic goals, steady pace, activity, sleep and when to get medical help.
Nutrition · 6 min readVitamins and supplements: who needs them, who does notVitamins and supplements: when they help, where research finds little benefit, how they interact with medicines and how to read a label.
Nutrition · 6 min readCaffeine: how much is too much, and sleep effectsCaffeine: the daily limit for most adults, how much is in common drinks, effects on sleep and heart rate, special groups and how to cut back.
Nutrition · 7 min readFiber foods: how much you need and how to eat moreMost Americans eat well under the recommended fiber. See the best fiber foods, a daily target and how to add more slowly with water to avoid gas.
Nutrition · 6 min readCalcium-rich foods: how much you need, with or without dairyCalcium: how much most adults need, the best food sources with and without dairy, what affects absorption and why supplements are a last step.
Nutrition · 7 min readPlant-based diet: nutrients to watch and how to get themPlant-based diet basics: the nutrients to plan for, food sources, why B12 and fortified foods matter, blood tests and warning signs of a gap.
Nutrition · 7 min readUltra processed foods: what they are and how to cut backUltra-processed foods are common and easy to overeat. See what counts, what a clinical trial found, how to read labels and simple swaps.
Nutrition · 8 min readArtificial sweeteners and sugar: how much is too muchAdded sugar limits, hidden sources, why honey and syrups count, what the FDA and WHO say about artificial sweeteners, and how to cut back on sweet drinks.
Nutrition · 7 min readHow much protein per day? What adults really needHow much protein per day: the baseline figure, who may need more, whether protein harms healthy kidneys, how to spread it out and good food sources.
Nutrition · 8 min readGut microbiome: what science shows and what is hypeWhat is known about the gut microbiome, why fiber matters most, where probiotics have some evidence, who should be careful, and where claims outrun the science.
Nutrition · 7 min readReduce salt intake: how to cut sodium without bland foodMost sodium comes from packaged and restaurant food, not the shaker. See how to compare labels, flavor food without salt and when to get medical advice.
Nutrition · 7 min readAnti-inflammatory diet: what the evidence supportsAn anti-inflammatory diet is a Mediterranean-style pattern, not a medicine. What research supports, what is hype and how to start sensibly.
First aid
14 guides
First aid · 7 min readHeart attack symptoms: warning signs and what to doHeart attacks rarely look like the movies. Learn the typical and less typical warning signs, and the first steps to take while you wait for 911.
First aid · 7 min readTick bite: how to remove a tick and what to watch forHow to remove a tick step by step, what not to do, which rash and fever signs to watch for after a bite, and how to avoid ticks outdoors.
First aid · 7 min readCPR steps: what to do if someone is not breathingIf someone collapses and is not breathing normally, call 911 and push hard and fast on the center of the chest. Here are the steps, plus AED use and common fears.
First aid · 8 min readFood poisoning: symptoms, rehydration and when to get helpFood poisoning and diarrhea: how to rehydrate, what to eat, which medicines to be careful with, signs of dehydration and when to see a doctor.
First aid · 7 min readFrostbite and hypothermia: first aid and what not to doFrostbite and hypothermia: warning signs, correct first aid, mistakes to avoid such as rubbing or alcohol, who is most at risk and how to dress for cold.
First aid · 7 min readFirst aid kit: what to keep at home and how to store itA practical home first aid kit: wound supplies, a short list of over-the-counter items, personal medicines, storage, expiry checks and child safety.
First aid · 7 min readHeat stroke vs heat exhaustion: signs and first aidHeat stroke is an emergency, and heat exhaustion can turn into it. Learn the signs, how to cool someone down while waiting for 911 and how to prevent both.
First aid · 8 min readStroke symptoms: the FAST signs and what to do firstThe FAST check for stroke, the other sudden warning signs, what to do before the ambulance arrives, why a mini-stroke is never a false alarm.
First aid · 8 min readSprained ankle: first aid, recovery and when to get helpSprained ankle, strains and small cuts: what to do in the first days, how to spot a possible break, how to care for a wound and when to get help.
First aid · 7 min readBurn first aid: what to do and what to avoidFor a burn, cool it under running water for 20 minutes, remove rings and loose clothing, cover it loosely and skip ice, butter and creams. Know when to get help.
First aid · 6 min readChoking first aid: what to do, step by stepChoking first aid: when to step in, 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts for adults and children, a different method for babies, and aftercare.
First aid · 8 min readRash in children: common causes and when to call 911Rash in children: the glass test, common causes from heat rash to measles, signs that mean call 911, home care and what to note for the visit.- First aid · 2 min readConcussion: warning signs after a head injuryRecognise concerning symptoms after a head injury, understand why loss of consciousness is not required and plan observation and a safe return to activity.
- First aid · 2 min readAnaphylaxis: warning signs and an emergency action planRecognise possible anaphylaxis, use an emergency action plan, understand the role of an adrenaline auto-injector and prepare family members to help.
Testing
12 guides
Testing · 8 min readFatty liver: what to do when an ultrasound finds itFatty liver (MASLD): the stages, who is at risk, tests that check for scarring, what weight loss does for the liver and when to get urgent care.
Testing · 8 min readVitamin D deficiency: who should be tested?Vitamin D deficiency explained: what the vitamin does, who is at higher risk, when testing is worthwhile, sun and food sources, and the risks of taking too much.
Testing · 9 min readIron deficiency anemia: signs, tests and treatmentSigns of iron deficiency, why it happens, which blood tests to discuss, how food affects absorption, and why you should not self-prescribe iron.
Testing · 9 min readThyroid symptoms: signs, tests and what to do nextSigns of an underactive or overactive thyroid, which tests usually come first, what to know about nodules and thyroid medicine, and when to get help.
Testing · 7 min readPrediabetes: signs, tests and how to lower your riskPrediabetes: why it is usually silent, who should be tested, which blood tests are used and what lifestyle changes lower the risk of diabetes.
Testing · 8 min readVitamin B12 deficiency: symptoms, causes and testingWho runs low on vitamin B12, which symptoms to take seriously, which blood tests a clinician may order, and how treatment works with pills or injections.
Testing · 9 min readKidney disease symptoms: tests and how to protect themWhy kidney disease is often silent, the two simple tests that check kidney function, who should be tested, and what protects or harms your kidneys.
Testing · 9 min readCholesterol levels: how to read a lipid panelCholesterol explained: what each line of a lipid panel means, how often to be tested, how to prepare, lifestyle steps that lower LDL and how statins fit in.
Testing · 8 min readComplete blood count (CBC): how to read your resultsWhat a complete blood count measures, how to read the lines on your report, what ESR adds, how to prepare, and which results mean you should call a clinician.
Testing · 7 min readCancer screening: which tests and when, by ageScreening finds some cancers before symptoms. See which tests are recommended by age for breast, cervical, colorectal, lung and prostate cancer, and the trade-offs.
Testing · 8 min readBlood test preparation: what to ask before you goGet your blood test right: confirm the exact test, ask whether to fast, tell staff about every medicine, say so if you slip up, and plan for results.- Testing · 2 min readCeliac disease testing: before you stop eating glutenWhen to discuss celiac testing, why removing gluten can affect results and how to prepare for assessment of persistent gut symptoms or iron deficiency.
Mental health
4 guides
Mental health · 7 min readAnxiety: self-help tips and when to get supportAnxiety is a normal alarm system that sometimes overreacts. Learn what helps in the moment and day to day, and when it is time to get professional support.
Mental health · 9 min readDepression symptoms: how to recognize it and what nextHow to tell depression from a low mood, what to rule out first, treatments with good evidence, how to help someone, and when to seek help right away.
Mental health · 7 min readBurnout: three signs, causes and how to recoverBurnout: exhaustion, cynicism and reduced effectiveness at work, how it differs from depression, what helps and when to see a professional.
Mental health · 7 min readADHD in adults: signs, diagnosis and treatmentAdult ADHD shows up as disorganization, forgetfulness, restlessness and impulsivity. See how it is assessed, why it is missed and what treatment can help.
Sleep
3 guides
Sleep · 9 min readInsomnia: what to do when sleep tips are not enoughWhy insomnia becomes chronic, the parts of CBT-I (the first-line treatment), the limits of sleeping pills and melatonin, and when to see a provider.
Sleep · 7 min readSleep hygiene: habits and bedroom tips for better sleepSleep hygiene is a set of repeatable habits that help your body tell day from night. See what to change first and which symptoms need a doctor.
Sleep · 7 min readSleep apnea and snoring: signs, tests and treatmentSnoring alone is not always a problem, but loud snoring with pauses in breathing can mean sleep apnea. Learn the signs, tests, risks and treatment options.
Not a diagnosis
VITON13 MEDICINE explains health topics for reference. It does not replace a doctor. With chest pain, trouble breathing, signs of a stroke or a severe injury, call emergency services at once.