Ringworm has nothing to do with worms. It is a fungal infection of the skin, hair, or nails caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes. These fungi live on dead tissue, including the outer layer of skin, hair, and nails. The name comes from the ring-shaped rash it often creates, not from any actual … Read more

Occipital neuralgia is a type of headache that starts in the upper neck and spreads to the back of the head, often behind one eye. It happens when the occipital nerves, which run from the top of the spinal cord up through the scalp, become irritated or inflamed. The pain is usually sharp, shooting, or … Read more

Green tea is one of the most studied beverages for weight management. The evidence shows it can help you burn a small amount of extra calories each day, mainly through its combination of caffeine and catechins. These compounds work together to slightly increase your metabolic rate and fat oxidation. It is not a magic solution, … Read more

A physical therapy technician, sometimes called a PT tech or rehabilitation aide, helps physical therapists and physical therapist assistants with the daily tasks of running a clinic. Their role is practical and hands-on, focused on preparing treatment areas, helping patients with exercises, and handling clerical work. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the … Read more

Soy oil is a seed oil, and it is one of the most common cooking oils in the United States. It is also a genetically modified (GMO) crop in its most widely grown form. The inflammation question is more complex, and the science does not support the idea that soy oil is inherently inflammatory for … Read more

A swollen uvula is the small piece of tissue that hangs at the back of your throat. When it swells, it can feel like you have something stuck in your throat, and it may make swallowing or breathing uncomfortable. In most cases, the swelling goes down on its own within a few days with home … Read more

Fruit flies are tiny insects, usually about 1/8 inch long, with a light tan or brownish body and bright red eyes. They have a rounded, slightly oval shape, six legs, and two small wings, and they are often seen hovering near ripe or fermenting produce. Their small size and quick, erratic flight pattern make them … Read more

Basketball involves constant jumping, twisting, and sudden stops, which places significant stress on your lower back. Relief starts with rest and gentle movement, followed by targeted stretching and strengthening exercises. Most acute basketball-related back pain improves within a few days to two weeks, but persistent pain lasting longer than that warrants a medical evaluation. Why … Read more

Putting in a contact lens is a simple mechanical skill, but it takes practice. The basic steps are always the same: wash your hands, check the lens is not inside out, hold your eyelids open, and place the lens gently on the colored part of your eye. Most people master the technique within a few … Read more