Frequently Asked Questions

Abnormal sperm morphology may be a contributing factor in male infertility.

Some research suggests that acetyl-L-carnitine may improve fatigue associated with multiple sclerosis, but more study is needed.

Acid reflux and GERD are closely related, but the terms aren't necessarily interchangeable.

Various procedures can improve acne scars, but no single treatment is best for everyone.

Most cases of acute bronchitis are caused by viruses and are contagious. Learn ways to reduce your risk of catching viruses that can cause bronchitis.

Medicine you can get without a prescription may give some relief from acute sinusitis symptoms.

Adrenal fatigue is a term used to describe a group of symptoms that aren't specific. It's not an official medical diagnosis.

Adult bed-wetting is uncommon and requires evaluation by a doctor. Learn about possible causes.

Consider these guidelines if you need to fly while you're pregnant.

Planning for air travel with an infant? Know how air travel can affect a newborn's ears and breathing, and what you can do to keep your baby comfortable.

Albuterol side effects — Managing reactions to quick-relief asthma medication.

Drinking too much alcohol can raise blood pressure to unhealthy levels.

Health claims about alkaline water abound, but plain water is usually best.

Find out what medicines can help you manage allergies while you're pregnant.

The terms 'Alzheimer's disease' and 'dementia' are often used to mean the same thing — but here's the real difference between them.

Alzheimer's prevention: Strategies for staying physically and mentally fit may be most effective.

Zolpidem (Ambien) for insomnia is generally safe in the short term, but some people who take it may behave dangerously, such as driving while not awake.

Try these tips to prevent and treat swelling of the ankles during pregnancy.

Alcohol doesn't make antibiotics less effective. But it's still a good idea not to drink alcohol while taking antibiotics.

Learn about common types of antibiotics used during pregnancy and their safety.

Antidepressant withdrawal is possible if you stop taking an antidepressant abruptly — but it's generally preventable.

Combining antidepressants and alcohol can worsen depression and cause other problems.

An antidepressant isn't always a direct cause of weight gain. Learn the other causes of weight gain when taking antidepressants and how to manage weight.

Antidepressants: Reasons treatment stops working.

Sexual side effects are common with antidepressants in both men and women, but there are options to prevent or reduce such side effects.

Anxiety can cause dramatic, temporary increases in blood pressure.

This condition once was thought to be harmless, but it may be a symptom of heart valve disease.

Proponents tout apple cider vinegar as a weight-loss aid, but there's little proof that it works.

With this condition, older adults develop a gray arc around the cornea of the eyes.

Artificial sweeteners, also called sugar substitutes, offer the sweetness of sugar without the calories.

Not all eye drops are the same. Here's what to consider when choosing artificial tears for dry eyes.

An aspirin allergy or sensitivity can cause serious symptoms.

A Mayo Clinic specialist explains what you need to know about taking aspirin if you're pregnant.

A Mayo Clinic expert discusses how acid reflux can make asthma worse.

Can what you eat affect your asthma? Learn how healthy eating habits may reduce asthma symptoms.

Atypical cells appear abnormal, but they aren't necessarily cancerous.

Children with autism spectrum disorder often have other health issues, including problems related to digestion.

Surgery is rarely needed to reattach a small chunk of bone when it gets pulled away from the main part of the bone by a tendon or ligament.

Find out when your baby's weight might be of concern and how to promote a healthy weight.

Infant stool can have various colors and textures. Know what to expect in your newborn's diapers.

Losing baby teeth is a big childhood event. Find out what to expect.

Understand the differences between bacterial and viral infections.

Weight gain can occur as a side effect of some of these medicines used for high blood pressure and other conditions.

If you take this medicine, you may need to change your target heart rate during exercise.

There's no proof that these treatments are safer than standard hormone therapy for menopause symptoms.

These disorders often occur together, and they can be a dangerous mix. Having both conditions makes mood swings, depression, violence and suicide more likely.

Bipolar disorder in children and teenagers is possible. Finding it early and treating it can help.

Some medications used to treat bipolar disorder can increase your appetite or cause changes in metabolism leading to weight gain.

Bipolar I and bipolar II are different disorders, but treatment is similar.

If you took birth control pills before you knew you were pregnant, the risks of birth defects are low.

This possible cause of pregnancy makes withdrawal a method of birth control you cannot rely on.

Although women are more likely to get bladder infections, men can get them, too. Learn about signs and symptoms and what could put you at risk.

Find out more about the causes of male bladder outlet obstruction and possible next steps.

Light vaginal bleeding after hysterectomy is common; it may occur for several days or several weeks.

It's unusual to bleed from the vagina after menopause. Learn what health problems can cause it and why you need to see your health care provider.

A Mayo Clinic specialist explains what's behind this type of early pregnancy loss.

Blood clots during menstrual periods aren't always a cause for a concern. But passing large clots may be a sign that something is wrong.

Consider these factors when measuring blood sugar levels with blood glucose monitors.

Accurate blood pressure readings depend on the proper size blood pressure cuff.

Losing weight may reduce or end the need for blood pressure medicine.

Learn which blood pressure medicines might raise triglyceride levels.

Blood pressure that always measures higher outside a medical office is called masked hypertension.

A small difference in blood pressure readings between arms usually isn't a worry. But a large difference can be a warning sign of a health condition.

Like many body functions, blood pressure has a daily pattern. Find out more.

Blood pressure generally is higher in the winter than in the summer. Discover why.

Unexplained changes in blood sugar levels can be the result of illness, injury, stress and hormone changes.

These medications must be taken exactly as directed to prevent blood clots.

Concerned about a link between breast implants and cancer? Get the facts.

Breastfeeding and alcohol don't mix well. A Mayo Clinic specialist discusses how alcohol affects breast milk.

Understand why babies sometimes refuse to breastfeed and what you can do about it.

Compared with a bulging disk, a herniated disk is more likely to cause pain because it protrudes farther and is more likely to compress nerve roots.

Even a minor injury to the scalp or forehead can cause a large lump. Find out when it's time to see a healthcare professional.

Margarine usually tops butter for heart health. But not all margarines are created equal.

Learn why health care providers generally don't recommend a CA 125 test for ovarian cancer screening.

Interested in using CBD? Here's what you need to know about the risks and benefits of using this drug.

Find out how COVID-19 can affect dogs and cats, what you can do to protect your pet, and how to care for your pet if it becomes sick.

Medicine can help people who are at risk of, diagnosed with, or have symptoms of COVID-19.

Understand how underlying health conditions, the places where people live and work, and racism can affect who becomes seriously ill with COVID-19.

Swollen lymph nodes caused by the COVID-19 vaccine can look like breast cancer on a mammogram. Find out what to do if you've got a mammogram scheduled.

The virus that causes COVID-19 has changed over time, which has affected prevention, diagnosis and treatment of COVID-19.

For some people with diabetes, one cup of coffee may raise or lower blood sugar. Learn how caffeine can affect blood sugar.

Caffeinated drinks can raise blood pressure in the short term. But the long-term effects on blood pressure aren't clear.

Caffeinated drinks usually won't dehydrate you, but water is still your best option.

Learn about the possible link between calcium supplements and heart attack.

In large amounts, these supplements may affect certain blood pressure medicines.

Timing matters when taking these supplements. Learn how to take them.

Learn what you can do to help lower the risk of vaginal tears during childbirth.

Find out what the research says about links between this key vitamin and the widespread viral infection.

Study results are mixed on whether vitamins can prevent heart disease. Find out more.

Find out if eating whole-grain foods can lower blood pressure.

Should you follow a special diet to prevent problems after gallbladder surgery?

Candida cleanse diets that replace processed food with fresh foods improve health but don't necessarily stop yeast overgrowth.

Carefully planned pre-trip meals, air ventilation and distractions might help prevent car sickness in children.

Wheezing isn't always due to true asthma. Sometimes it's a sign of heart failure. Know the difference.

Carpal tunnel exercises may be helpful, but they aren't used alone.

Cellulitis — a common, potentially serious bacterial skin infection — is not directly contagious.

Learn to treat and prevent recurrent cellulitis.

Cervical cysts usually aren't cancerous. Some types of cervical cysts are so common that they're considered a normal feature of cervical anatomy.

Learn what to expect if a Pap test shows cells that look different from typical cervical cells. Follow-up tests might include HPV testing and colposcopy.

If cervical length during pregnancy shortens too soon, there might be an increased risk of preterm labor.

Learn more about this debated treatment for heart disease.

Chemotherapy and sex aren't mutually exclusive, as long as you're feeling up to it.

Chemotherapy side effects may include a risk of heart conditions, such as weakened heart muscle (cardiomyopathy) and irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).

Understand the risks posed by chickenpox during pregnancy.

Concerned about your child's growth? Find out how you can estimate your child's adult height.

A high cholesterol level is unhealthy. Rarely, very low cholesterol may pose risks too.

Non-HDL cholesterol may be more important than cholesterol ratio.

Home cholesterol test kits are often as accurate as the test a health care professional uses, but the quality of results can depend on how well you follow the directions for the test.

Chronic bladder infection can be a painful, frustrating problem. Learn about causes and treatments.

Diarrhea is fairly common after gallbladder removal. Find out what to expect.

Cigars aren't safer than cigarettes. Like cigarettes, cigars contain nicotine, tobacco and cancer-causing chemicals.

The term "clinical depression" means severe, persistent depression. It's also called major depression or major depressive disorder.

This oil has been touted by some as a cure for hypothyroidism. Truth or hype?

This drink is promoted as "super hydrating." But is it really any better than plain water?

Has coffee gotten a bum rap? Can it be part of a healthy diet?

Plain coffee has only a few calories. But the calories jump up when adding extras.

Some viruses are more resilient than you may think. Learn more about how they spread and how to protect yourself.

Although colds and seasonal allergies share some of the same symptoms, they are very different diseases. Learn how to tell the difference.

Colds mean extra thick and sticky mucus, but dairy milk doesn't make phlegm worse.

Colloidal silver supplements are often promoted as cure-alls, but evidence of effectiveness is lacking. Side effects range from change in skin color to organ damage.

Some groups recommend people over 75 may consider stopping colon cancer screening. Not everyone agrees. Learn about your colon cancer screening options.

Get the facts before you try this technique that's popular among some people who practice alternative medicine, who claim it has many health benefits.

Whether your child's concussion is mild or severe, allow time to recover.

Coping with anxiety is a challenge. Eating habits may play a role.

Pain is common after mastectomy and other breast operations. Find out what causes it and learn about treatment options.

The best treatment for coronary artery disease depends on the circumstances.

This sudden, temporary squeezing of an artery reduces blood flow to the heart. Know the causes and treatment.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is caused by a virus that spreads between people. Find out how to protect yourself and those close to you.

If you cough more than usual after you give up cigarettes, find out what it might mean and when to call the doctor.

Craving and chewing ice (pagophagia) is often associated with iron deficiency with or without anemia.

Some research suggests that curcumin may help prevent or treat cancer.

Degenerative changes in the spine visible on X-rays indicate osteoarthritis of the spine.

Learn the causes and types of these diseases that affect the protective covering of nerves, which include multiple sclerosis. Also learn how they're treated.

Cleaning between your teeth every day is an important part of good oral health.

Follow these best practices to keep your removable partial or full dentures clean, free from stains and comfortable.

These conditions commonly occur together and have similar treatments: talk therapy or medicine, such as antidepressants, or both.

Do detox foot pads really draw toxins out of your body while you sleep?

Diabetes and depression can occur together. Here's what you need to know.

It's a common myth that you shouldn't eat certain foods if you have diabetes.

Some medicine for type 2 diabetes can improve blood sugar control and also may support weight loss.

Generally, there's no advantage to substituting honey for sugar in a diabetes eating plan.

Learn what cinnamon's role may be as part of a diabetes treatment plan.

How to care for your liver if you have diabetes.

What the change in the research definition of Alzheimer's disease means for you.

This type of soda may help cut calories, but there are many other low-calorie choices.

Digestion takes about two to five days, depending on your system.

Baby teeth can become discolored for many reasons, including not brushing well enough, taking medicines, or having an injury or illness.

Find out what causes discolored semen.

This treatment for high blood pressure can raise the risk of arthritis. Find out why and what you can do about it.

These medicines are often used to treat high blood pressure and swelling. Diuretics may lower potassium.

Contrary to popular belief, no specific foods are known to trigger bouts of this condition.

How is an infrared sauna different from a traditional sauna? Light provides the heat.

You know vitamin C helps fight the common cold. But did you know that vitamin C might also help improve your mood?

AFib is a common heart disorder. Sometimes it is inherited. Learn about all the risk factors.

Learn how the risk of getting this common heart rhythm condition can increase with age.

Have you heard about prickly pear cactus? Find out about some surprising health benefits of this versatile plant.

Soy foods reduce the risk of breast cancer, but more research is needed to determine whether soy supplements are equally beneficial.

Wondering whether sunscreen expires? Get the facts about how long sunscreen lasts.

A Doppler ultrasound measures blood flow and pressure in blood vessels.

Your hepatitis C infection has been cured, but is it safe to drink alcohol again?

To ease dry mouth, chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candy to keep saliva flowing. Limit caffeine and don't use tobacco. Sip water regularly.

Early signs of the disease can include fever, fatigue and swollen lymph glands. Learn more.

Early miscarriage is usually caused by an abnormality with the baby — not maternal stress.

Despite claims of benefits, eating the placenta after giving birth can be harmful.

Ebola virus: A Mayo Clinic expert explains how the virus spreads

A diluted bleach bath may help treat chronic eczema.

Get the latest information about eggs, cholesterol and heart disease.

This measurement, commonly taken during an echocardiogram, shows how well the heart is pumping. Know what results mean.

Understand whether ending a pregnancy can affect your fertility or future pregnancies.

There is no cure for this disease of the nervous system, but promising research offers hope for new ways to slow and perhaps reverse the effects of this disease.

Lifestyle factors such as diet appear to play a role in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). See what lifestyle changes may help with symptoms.

Enterovirus D68 and parechovirus infections can lead to serious illness among children. Know the symptoms and what you can do.

Play it smart. Ease up on exercise if you have a cold.

Reduce your multiple sclerosis symptoms through exercise.

Find out how much exercise you need and how to get it.

Breakthrough bleeding is more common with continuous and extended-cycle birth control pills, but usually decreases with time.

Eye dilation is part of a comprehensive eye exam. How often you need it depends on your age and health risks.

Fainting during or immediately after urination, called micturition syncope, is a rare occurrence in healthy individuals.

Here's what to consider after a fall during pregnancy, including when to seek medical help.

Pregnancy may be possible with one fallopian tube.

Being on a fasting diet some of the time may have heart-health benefits. Find out more.

Learn tips to become a more-confident public speaker

Not all women have orgasms with vaginal penetration during sex. Most women need stimulation of the clitoris to climax.

Fiber supplements are one way to add fiber to the diet. Here are some tips for using them safely.

Nutrition experts recommend ground flaxseed over whole flaxseed. Find out why.

Influenza masks and hand hygiene might help protect healthcare workers from flu (influenza).

Will you be pregnant during flu season? A flu shot is safe — and it protects both you and your baby.

The flu shot protects against influenza, which is different from the stomach flu, also called gastroenteritis.

Know the latest recommendations for children's flu vaccines.

See a healthcare professional if you are at high risk for complications from flu.

If you have egg allergy, you still may be able to receive the flu vaccine.

Persistently foamy urine can be a sign of protein in your urine (proteinuria) and could be an indicator of kidney disease.

Might you have to swear off milkshakes for good? Follow the symptom clues to find out whether you possibly have a food allergy or a food intolerance.

Prevent food poisoning with these food safety tips for handling and reheating leftover food.

Swelling of the leg or foot while flying is common and usually harmless.

Results from free blood pressure monitoring machines aren't always accurate.

Some studies have suggested that frequent ejaculation may reduce the risk of prostate cancer. But other research hasn't supported this idea.

This type of receding hairline, which primarily affects older women, is treatable. The earlier you talk with your doctor about it, the better your chance of preventing permanent baldness.

Fructose is a sugar found naturally in fruits, fruit juices, some vegetables and honey. Learn which foods to avoid if you have fructose intolerance.

Understand how fundal height is measured and what it means.

Certain medicines can make symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) worse. Learn more.

A gallbladder cleanse is a popular alternative remedy for gallstones. But does it work?

The size of gallbladder polyps can be a useful predictor of whether they're cancerous.

It is nearly impossible to get genital herpes from a toilet seat.

Glucosamine manufacturers claim their products slow or stop cartilage damage in osteoarthritis.

Some people with diabetes use the glycemic index as a guide in selecting foods.

Some medicines don't mix with grapefruit and other citrus fruits. Learn what's safe.

Grass-fed beef may have heart-health benefits that conventional beef doesn't. Find out more.

Learn about the risks of this dangerous diet.

HER2-positive breast cancer tends to be more aggressive than other types of breast cancer. Treatments that target HER2 are very effective.

Learn what types of cancer human papillomavirus can cause and how you can lower your risk.

This condition is a common problem, but rarely serious enough to disrupt your routine.

Here's help with preventing or easing this common type of pain while you're pregnant.

It's possible that secondhand smoke can irritate the arteries and increase the risk of a heart attack.

Although heart tumors do occur, the vast majority of them are noncancerous (benign).

Many people with heart failure worry that sex might harm their hearts. How do you know when sex is OK? Cardiac rehab and counseling can help.

A normal resting heart rate for adults ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute. A heart rate above or below that may signal a problem.

Acid-controlling medicines may do more than prevent heartburn. They also may keep vitamin B-12 from being absorbed.

Heavy periods may cause iron deficiency anemia. Folic acid supplements can't treat that.

Know how to relieve painful, swollen veins in the anus and rectum during pregnancy.

Although hepatitis C is highly contagious, the risk of sexual transmission is very low.

End-stage complications of hepatitis C include liver failure and liver cancer.

Herbal treatment for anxiety: A Mayo Clinic expert discusses safety and effectiveness.

Among cold medicines, decongestants cause the most concern for people who have high blood pressure.

High cholesterol in children can lead to narrowed and hardened arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease later in life.

Can cinnamon lower cholesterol?

Some vaccines are recommended for people who have a weaker immune response to the standard vaccine.

High-dose vitamin C has been touted by some as an effective alternative cancer treatment.

Considering a high-protein diet for weight loss? Understand the precautions first.

Learn how types of lymphomas are determined using lab tests to examine cancer cells.

Several studies focusing on the common cold suggest that honey may help calm coughs in adults and children over 1 year of age.

This habit isn't safer than smoking cigarettes. Find out why.

Antibody testing shows whether you've had the COVID-19 virus in the past. It's not the same as testing to see whether you have the virus now.

Wonder how many hours of sleep are enough? A Mayo Clinic specialist offers guidelines.

Learn self-care tips for healing cracked heels.

Learn how to treat the tiny, painful cracks that can form on the thumb tip when your skin is very dry.

Knowing how much saturated fat is in the foods you eat can help you meet your health and nutrition goals.

Learn what you can do at home if your ear new piercing becomes infected.

Learn simple remedies to easing your baby's discomfort from the pain and irritation of this skin rash.

If you can’t breathe out well, as in COPD, air may get trapped inside your lungs. As you breathe in more air over time, your lungs get too big and stiff.

Hyperinsulinemia often is associated with type 2 diabetes.

A sudden rise in blood pressure over 180/120 mm Hg is considered a medical emergency, or crisis. It can lead to a stroke. Know the symptoms.

For women, there's sometimes a link between having an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism) and infertility.

There's no evidence that eating or avoiding certain foods will help the thyroid work better in people with underactive thyroid.

Hypothyroidism symptoms can vary, but eye problems aren't usually a concern.

Calcium supplements can interfere with how the body absorbs medications used to treat hypothyroidism.

Hypothyroidism can cause damage to peripheral nerves and can lead to conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome.

Hypothyroidism can cause muscle and joint problems, such as pain and stiffness.

Although iodine deficiency can cause hypothyroidism, this deficiency is rare in the United States.

Implantation bleeding is a common early pregnancy symptom. Understand why it happens.

With time and dedication, breastfeeding without pregnancy (induced lactation) might be possible.

Learn about baby bowel habits so you can recognize the difference between typical stool passage and constipation in infants.

Infant growth rates depend on various factors. Consider what's typical during baby's first year.

Waking up in the middle of the night and not being able to get back to sleep is a common form of insomnia. Here's how to fall asleep again.

Intermittent fasting isn't new, but it's gaining followers. What's the appeal?

Using a home sperm test to check your fertility may not provide a clear answer.

Depression is common in people with rheumatoid arthritis. If it isn't treated, depression may contribute to worsening of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

Both the top and bottom numbers in blood pressure readings hold clues about your health. But if just the top number is high, it might be a concern.

Learn more about isometric exercises that contract a particular muscle or group of muscles.

Learn about the pros and cons of extracting the juice from fresh fruits and vegetables.

Many factors may influence the decision to withdraw from kidney dialysis.

Kidney donation can save a life, but it's important to understand the risks.

Does kombucha tea live up to its reputation as a health tonic?

This supplement may help some people lower their blood pressure. Learn who might benefit and who should stay away from it.

Lack of sleep can affect your immune system. Here's what you need to know.

Laryngospasm is a brief spasm of the vocal cords, which temporarily interrupts breathing.

Late-night snacks aren't necessarily off-limits with diabetes, but healthy choices won't leave you with high blood sugar in the morning.

Latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA) is a slow-developing form of diabetes.

A Mayo Clinic specialist shares prevention and treatment tips for leg cramps during pregnancy.

New, persistent leg pain or aching may indicate an underlying circulation problem.

Learn when this condition that causes a lacy pattern on the skin is simply a result of being chilled or something more serious.

Occasionally, liver cysts can cause pain and discomfort in the upper abdomen.

Age-related loss of sex drive is normal, but sometimes an underlying condition is at play.

Aging can play a role in the loss of taste and smell — but not always.

Delivery, amnioinfusion and drinking more fluids might be recommended when amniotic fluid is found to be low.

For older adults, low blood sodium, known as hyponatremia, can cause death if left untreated.

If you have kidney disease, you may need to limit how much phosphorus you eat or drink each day. A dietitian can help you create a custom meal plan.

Lung nodules are common. Most aren't cancer. Find out what tests might be recommended if you have a lung nodule.

A low-tyramine diet is important for anyone taking MAOIs.

Older gadolinium contrast agents used with MRI posed a risk for people with severe kidney failure. Newer versions are much safer.

Enlarged red blood cells (macrocytosis) can be due to many factors.

Find out what ingredients pharmacists combine for this treatment for mouth sores caused by chemotherapy and other cancer treatments.

Male masturbation has little effect on sperm count or quality.

Latest Mayo Clinic mammogram guidelines for breast cancer screening.

Marijuana and depression seem to go hand in hand for some people, but there's no clear evidence that marijuana directly causes depression.

Is it possible to get measles from someone else if you've been vaccinated?

Melatonin is generally safe for short-term use but can cause side effects.

For many women, menopause and high blood pressure seem to go together. Discover why.

Some forms of hormone therapy prescribed to ease hot flashes and other menopause symptoms may cause vaginal bleeding. Learn more.

Combining migraine medicines and antidepressants may pose several concerns.

Certain antidepressants are used in migraine treatment. Learn more about these medications.

Migraines can be associated with certain gastrointestinal problems. Learn more.

Migraines — Are they triggered by weather changes?

The term "ministroke" typically refers to a transient ischemic attack.

Moldy cheese may be unappetizing, but is it unsafe?

The Epstein-Barr virus sometimes causes a disease known as mono. Learn who is at risk and what the symptoms are.

Mono can return in some rare cases. Learn why that happens.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) can trigger headaches and other symptoms in some people.

Find out more about this rare viral infection, the possible symptoms in humans, treatment options and how to prevent getting or spreading the virus.

Visible mucus in stool can have a variety of causes, but they're not always serious.

Seizures occur more often in people with multiple sclerosis than in the general population.

Multivitamins: Are they good insurance for young children?

Myofascial release, a form of manual therapy, may help reduce back pain.

Common pain medicines such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium may increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Vertical nail ridges are common and often become more prominent with age.

Narrow stools may be a sign that the colon is narrowing or has a blockage.

Breast enhancement supplements haven't been proved effective, and they could cause side effects.

For some people, certain herbal and dietary supplements seem to help with depression, but more studies are needed on their effectiveness and side effects.

Morning sickness is common during pregnancy. Understand what nausea and vomiting might mean while you're pregnant.

Nervous breakdown isn't a medical term. It most often means a mental health crisis that affects your ability to meet your own needs and do daily tasks.

Learn more about this container designed to rinse debris or mucus from the nasal cavity.

Some Neurontin side effects can be troubling and require evaluation by your health care provider.

Get the facts about when to wake a sleeping baby for a feeding.

When niacin is taken as prescribed for high cholesterol, overdose is unlikely.

"Alarm clock" (hypnic) headaches wake people up. But other nighttime headaches also can disrupt sleep. Relief begins with determining the cause.

Nighttime panic attacks can cause sweating, rapid heart rate, trembling, shortness of breath, heavy breathing, flushing or chills. Learn about treatment.

Occipital nerve stimulation is a relatively new procedure to treat chronic headache disorders.

Flashes of light, zigzagging patterns and temporary blindness — what does it all mean?

This essential fatty acid is found in certain foods and is recommended as part of a healthy diet.

Learn about the roles everyone plays in opioid stewardship, safety and overdose.

You know what M.D. means, but what does D.O. mean? What's different and what's alike between these two kinds of health care providers?

Joint replacement of the hip, knee and shoulder can be done safely as outpatient surgery. Most people can go home the same day as the procedure.

Surgery to remove your uterus may affect your risk of ovarian cancer, depending on the type of procedure you had.

Some types of cysts that form in or on an ovary can lead to trouble becoming pregnant.

Trying to get pregnant? Learn about symptoms of ovulation

Ozone air purifiers don't reduce asthma symptoms. In fact, they can make asthma worse.

A number of factors can cause PSA levels to rise after surgery for an enlarged prostate.

Depression can cause unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches. Chronic pain can cause problems that lead to depression, such as poor sleep.

Doctors recommend regular cervical cancer screening whether you've had sex or not.

Unfortunately, there is no standard or routine screening test for ovarian cancer.

Learn about the signs of this indirect way of expressing negative feelings.

Know the symptoms of this health concern.

Rarely, inhaling petroleum jelly for prolonged periods can cause lung inflammation (lipoid pneumonia).

Phantosmia is often due to a head injury or upper respiratory infection.

This prescription medicine can help with weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.

You may be worried about phenylalanine because of a warning on diet soda. Find out why the warning is there.

Many parents wonder how long pink eye (conjunctivitis) is contagious. Find out.

Plugged ears are usually a mild, temporary problem. Learn about potential causes and treatments.

This combination pill contains small doses of several commonly prescribed heart disease medicines.

Poppy seed tea may be used as a natural pain reliever. The key is the opioids in the seed coating, which may be dangerous.

Use these tips to help someone cope with stress from a traumatic event, whether it's acute stress disorder (ASD) or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Prednisone is a powerful medication. Find out why it's so important to taper off your dosage gradually.

Learn about self-care and safe medications to treat acne during pregnancy.

Pregnancy constipation is common. Know how to safely treat it.

Extreme moodiness, intense sadness or marked irritability in the days before your period — along with your usual PMS symptoms — could be PMDD.

Prenatal vitamins: Why they might not be suitable if you're not pregnant.

Probiotics are foods or supplements that contain 'good' bacteria that might help treat or prevent illness. Should they be part of your diet?

Prostate cancer can spread (metastasize) just about anywhere in the body, but it's most likely to spread to the lymph nodes and bones.

Find out what your PSA level may mean for your prostate cancer prognosis.

Some men with prostatitis have pain with ejaculation or sexual activity.

Protein shakes aren't a magic bullet for weight loss. Here's why.

Pseudoaneurysm may be a complication of cardiac catheterization.

Pulse pressure may be a strong predictor of heart problems, especially for older adults.

Reactive hypoglycemia is low blood sugar that happens after eating.

These infections that keep coming back can be hard to treat. Here's what to know.

Tonsillectomy may sometimes be needed in children who have recurring strep throat infections.

Although a kidney diet limits protein, you still must eat some protein every day.

Repeat C-sections are common — but each C-section is generally more complicated than the last.

This device teaches slow, deep breathing, which can reduce blood pressure.

Rhabdomyolysis is a rare but potentially life-threatening side effect of statins.

Although rheumatoid arthritis is primarily a joint disease, it occasionally affects the eyes.

Although rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects the joints, it can also affect the lungs.

This deadly poison comes from castor bean plants. The same beans are used to make castor oil.

Constantly craving salt could signal a medical condition, such as Addison's disease.

Learn how to tell apart these common conditions of the scalp, both of which cause inflamed, scaly skin.

Should you take health claims about sea salt with a grain of salt? What makes it different from table salt?

Second pregnancies don't always come easily. Learn about possible causes for secondary infertility and when to seek professional help.

How to take care of yourself at home when you have the flu.

Semen allergy, also called seminal plasma hypersensitivity, is a rare condition that can be easily misdiagnosed. Learn about symptoms and possible treatments.

Know what causes sensitive teeth and learn about effective treatments.

Close contact, including sexual activity, is a risk factor for COVID-19. Find out how to lower your risk of getting the COVID-19 virus from a sexual partner.

Vaginal infection makes intercourse painful and weakens your resistance to sexually transmitted infections. Consider waiting.

Contrary to popular belief, shaving unwanted hair doesn't make it grow back thicker.

Generally, it's best to avoid alcohol during the course of shingles treatment.

A shingles vaccine uses only part of the varicella-zoster virus, so you can't infect others.

People who are age 50 and older should get this vaccine to prevent shingles.

If you have A-fib, you may need to avoid certain foods or drinks. Know when and why you may need to change your diet.

This type of heart attack occurs with few, if any, symptoms. Find out more.

Understand the problems that may happen when a silicone breast implant leaks.

Sometimes the cause of a toothache isn't a tooth problem, but a sinus problem.

Sitting for long periods — such as in front of the TV or at a desk — appears to increase risk of death from cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Antihistamines can be somewhat effective as a sleep aid — but only for occasional sleeplessness.

Too little sleep affects not only energy levels but also heart health.

Cancer cells are classified by how they look under a microscope. Learn common terms used to describe cancer cells.

Soy alone doesn't lower cholesterol enough to make a big difference. But eating soy can still be healthy.

For most people with hypothyroidism, it's okay to have some soy. But the timing makes a difference.

This term is sometimes used to refer to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) — but how accurate is it?

After ejaculation, the life span of sperm depends on the circumstances.

Statins can cause muscle injury in some people. But can they also trigger ALS?

Depending on which virus causes your stomach illness, you can be contagious from a few days to two weeks or more.

Stool color is usually a result of diet and is only rarely a concern.

Strep throat in young children is uncommon, but it's possible. Learn about symptoms.

Learn how stress and hair loss can be related.

Sulfa allergy: A Mayo Clinic expert discusses which medications are likely to cause problems.

Sundowning isn't a disease. It's a symptom that often occurs in people with dementia.

Your body can't digest chewing gum. So what happens when you swallow it?

Tailbone pain can have many causes and treatments.

Energy drink ingredients can cause concern for some who consume these beverages.

Ice is recommended for sudden injuries to tendons. But heat might be a better choice for chronic tendinitis caused by overuse.

Feelings of worry and self-doubt can interfere with how well you do on tests. Here's what you can do to lower your anxiety.

A Mayo Clinic specialist discusses the relationship between testicular microlithiasis and testicular cancer.

This type of hormonal therapy may boost sex drive for some women, but its long-term safety is unclear.

For adults, tetanus shots are recommended every 10 years.

Take steps to prevent this early-morning increase in blood sugar.

Fragile or thin skin is a fairly common problem, especially in older adults.

Thyroid disease can affect mood, but those symptoms are rarely the only evidence of thyroid disease.

A Mayo Clinic expert discusses using thyroid guards during mammograms to reduce the risk of thyroid cancer from radiation.

Sometimes this test is done to help figure out the cause of thyroid disease.

Ringing in the ears, also known as tinnitus, has many possible causes, such as taking antidepressants.

A Mayo Clinic specialist describes typical speech development between the ages of 2 and 3.

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient, but too much carries its own risks.

A Mayo Clinic expert explains the differences and similarities between these two types of growths and how doctors determine if they're cancerous.

Know how to wash and care for your child's uncircumcised penis.

If you're underweight and not happy about it, try these tips to help you achieve your goal weight.

Undigested food in stool generally isn't a problem unless it's accompanied by other symptoms.

Type O negative is sometimes called the universal blood donor type.

COVID-19 can cause a wide variety of symptoms, some more common than others. Learn about how COVID-19 can make you feel.

Like LDL cholesterol, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol is considered a type of 'bad' cholesterol.

Find out which vaccinations you need while pregnant and which ones to stay away from.

Low-dose estrogen therapy, vaginal moisturizers and vaginal lubricants are among treatments for this condition and the discomfort it causes.

Valerian — Can this sleep aid help you sleep better?

Vaping during pregnancy can expose your baby to nicotine.

Although switching to a vegetarian diet won't cure diabetes, it may offer some benefits.

Learn about medicines to treat problems with sexual arousal or sexual desire in women.

Find out why you should not use this ointment to ease a stuffy nose during a cold.

Low levels of vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins may be linked to depression, but more research is needed.

Vitamin B-12 injections — A weight-loss shot sounds appealing, but does it work?

Some research suggests that vitamin D may reduce the risk of multiple sclerosis (MS).

What are the risks of too little vitamin D?

Too little vitamin D is bad for the bones, but what about the heart? Learn how a low vitamin D level may affect blood pressure.

A Mayo Clinic specialist explains why, when and how to give your baby vitamin D.

Understand the risks of too much vitamin D, including a toxic reaction.

Can vitamin supplements improve MS symptoms?

Vocal cord dysfunction and asthma cause similar symptoms, but they're not the same. Find out the difference between the two.

Vulvar varicosities can cause discomfort during pregnancy. Understand what causes this form of varicose veins and learn how to get relief.

Walking pneumonia is a mild bacterial infection that resembles a cold. It usually does not require bed rest or a hospital stay.

Walking and a healthy diet can put you on the path to weight management.

Certain foods and drinks may affect how the blood thinner warfarin works. Know which foods and beverages are OK when you're taking the medicine.

Warm-mist and cool-mist humidifiers are equally effective in humidifying the air.

Drinking plenty of water helps keep your digestive system on track.

Interested in natural diuretics for fluid retention and weight gain? You may be better off watching your diet.

Opioids are a broad group of medicines used to relieve pain. Although these medicines are effective, they can lead to addiction. Take them only as directed.

Some bacteria and other germs are resistant to most types of antibiotics and medicines that treat them. Find out the risks and how to prevent infections.

Find out more about BPA, a chemical used in some plastics and resins, and explore options for reducing your exposure.

Know when new heart failure symptoms require a call to a healthcare professional or an ER visit. An action plan can guide self-care.

Learn more about this mosquito-borne virus — found in Africa, Asia, India, and parts of Europe and the Americas — that causes fever and severe joint pain.

Tobacco smoke creates toxic residue that clings to walls, carpets, clothes and other surfaces.

H1N1 flu is a subcategory of influenza A.

When should you brush your teeth? Learn how to protect your oral health.

Blood pressure that measures high during a health checkup could be a risk factor for high blood pressure. Find out more.

A small white patch on skin may have several causes, including eczema, psoriasis and vitiligo.

White stool may mean a serious liver problem. Learn about causes.

Whole-body vibration — Don't give up regular exercise and a healthy diet.

Hepatitis C vaccine development is far from straightforward, but experimental vaccines are under study.

You may not need your wisdom teeth taken out if they're healthy and in the right place. But if they cause problems, your dentist may suggest removing them.

Devices that measure blood pressure at the wrist may be an option for some people. Know how to position a wrist monitor properly.

Learn when an X-ray during pregnancy might cause harm and how to avoid it.

Yeast infections are common during pregnancy. Medicines bought without a prescription most often are safe.

Yeast infections can occur in men, causing inflammation of the penis (balanitis). Learn what signs and symptoms could mean you have a yeast infection.

This herbal tea may help you feel more alert and focused, but find out what the possible health risks are.

Everyone's heard of taking zinc for colds. But does it really work?