When Should You Get Tested for the Flu?

The number of flu cases are steadily increasing as the flu season picks up steam. If left untreated,a case of the flucould progress into pneumonia or another serious complication. This is especially true for older adults, those with chronic conditions, and unvaccinated people. Verywell Health / Brianna Gilmartin While uncommon, its possible to be infected with both COVID-19 and flu at the same time. I think a lot of people are stuck in limbo land with symptoms, Chin-Hong told Verywell....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 299 words · Amy Whitney

When Should You Worry About Calf Pain? (and What to Do Next)

However, the following symptoms or scenarios indicate that something potentially dangerous may be happening. You might have a nerve, hormonal, or joint condition requiring additional care. Treatment of calf muscle cramps entails identifying and fixing the underlying problem. Anut21ng / Getty Images Severe strains refer to a complete muscle tear, resulting in a loss of function. The pain of a calf strain feels tight, cramping, gripping, sharp, or sore. Muscle weakness or swelling may accompany the pain....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 545 words · Lisa Smith

When Someone With Dementia Thinks Their Parents Are Still Alive

Sometimes, a person with dementia may even say something like, “I want my mom. If this describes your loved one, you may not know how best to respond. Sometimes family caregivers feel sad or even frustrated when this happens. SelectStock Collection: Vetta /Getty Images These reactions are normal, especially when that desired person may have passed away many years ago. This article will help you understand why this happens. It will also help you to prepare some possible responses that may help your loved one in this situation....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 394 words · Brenda Lane

When the Low-FODMAP Diet Doesn't Work for IBS

Thelow-FODMAP dietwas developed as a way to offer people who have IBS a dietary approach for managing the disorder. Luckily, there is hope. Many common foods, such as wheat, garlic, and onions, are high in FODMAPs. Anne Stephneson / EyeEm / Getty Images The ACG recommends that the first phase last for two to six weeks. Do not spend a second blaming yourself. Even in laboratory conditions, the diet does not work for every person who has IBS....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 252 words · Erin Rivera

When to Eat or Not Eat Grapefruit

Grapefruit is acitrus fruitknown as a strong source ofvitamin C, fiber,potassium, and other vital nutrients. This article discusses the health benefits of grapefruit, with tips for incorporating it into your meals. Goodboy Picture Company / Getty Image What Are the Benefits of Grapefruit? Goodboy Picture Company / Getty Image Grapefruit contains vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber that contribute to many health benefits. There has been much research on how this tart citrus helps support your health....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 316 words · Patricia Cooper

When to Follow a Low-Residue Diet

A low-residue diet limits these and other foods that are especially high in fiber, to reduce stool output. This residue helps keep stools bulky andmoving through the intestinesand usually doesnt present a problem. With less waste to get rid of, you will havefewer bowel movements. J Shepherd / Getty Images These foods are also less likely to stimulate contractions of the intestines (peristalsis). It can also help during surgery recovery....

April 18, 2025 · 4 min · 851 words · Gabriel Singh

When to Go to the ER for Diverticulitis

Severe diverticulitis may lead to complications that require immediate medical attention. Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health What Is a Severe Attack of Diverticulitis? Having diverticula (the plural for diverticulum) in your colon is calleddiverticulosis. Illustration by Mira Norian for Verywell Health The condition of having inflamed or infected diverticula is calleddiverticulitis. Diverticulosis and diverticulitis are both known asdiverticular disease. A severe diverticulitis attack usually comes on suddenly. It is important to seek medical attention if you have any of these symptoms....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 569 words · Jerry Wilkins

When to Go to the Hospital for a Kidney Infection

There are times when the symptoms of akidney infectioncan turn severe. Knowing the signs and when to go to the hospital can help you avoid potentially life-threatening complications likekidney failureandsepsis. This article explains how kidney infections occur, including the causes and symptoms. ER Productions Limited / Getty Images It also describes the signs of a severe kidney infection and what to expect if hospitalization is needed. ER Productions Limited / Getty Images...

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 540 words · Brittany Moses

When to Go to the Hospital for Rapid Heart Rate

However, it could also be due to an abnormal heart rhythm or other serious conditions. A rapid heart rate, also known as tachycardia, is defined as a heart rate above 100 bpm. In certain circumstances, a heart rate higher than what’s considered normal is nothing to worry about. The Good Brigade / Getty Images It all depends on what you’re doing. For example, if you are exercising, expect your heart rate to go above 100 bpm....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 557 words · Bradley Smith

When to Have a Gonioscopy Eye Exam

Gonioscopyis a pop in of eye exam performed by an eye doctor (optometrist). Specifically, gonioscopy examines an area called the drainage angle. It is a painless exam. bluecinema / Getty Images bluecinema / Getty Images What Exactly Is Gonioscopy? The cornea is the dome-shaped front part of your eye, and theirisis the colored part of the eye. The anterior chamber angle is located where the cornea and iris come together....

April 18, 2025 · 4 min · 660 words · David Wheeler

When to See a Dermatologist

Do you need a specialist for your skin condition? Dermatologists can also monitor your skin if you are at risk of diseases like skin cancer. Why See a Board-Certified Dermatologist? Maria Fuchs / Getty Images How to Find a Dermatologist Most medical specialties have websites that list board-certified practitioners within your area. TheAmerican Academy of Dermatology Associationallows you to locate dermatologists by name, zip code, or city/state. Many websites allow you tocheck a practitioner’s credentialsas well as read reviews from other patients....

April 18, 2025 · 2 min · 307 words · Andrea Foster

When to See a Doctor About Pain in the Perianal Area

The perianal skin is sensitive and is susceptible to injury and damage fromdiarrhea, constipation, and disease. Irritation to the perianal area can occur with persistent diarrhea. The diarrhea itself may be caustic andburn the skinand repeated wiping with toilet paper can cause further trauma. Nipitphon Na Chiangmai / EyeEm / Getty Images Treating the diarrhea and then keeping the area clean and dry areimportant for healing the perianal skin. This article discusses the diseases and conditions of the perianal area and when you should see a healthcare provider....

April 18, 2025 · 1 min · 200 words · Rachael Richardson

When to See a Doctor for a Cold or Flu

Seek emergency medical treatment if there is difficulty breathing, a high fever, or a severe headache. This article discusses when you should go to the doctor for a cold or flu. It explains when a cough, fever, headache, and other symptoms warrant medical attention. Martin Barraud / Getty Images It also outlines who is at high risk for complications and should consult their healthcare provider. Difficulty Breathing Congestion from colds and flu can make breathing harder....

April 18, 2025 · 3 min · 445 words · Matthew Ayala