Swollen and bleeding gums are almost always a sign of inflammation caused by plaque buildup along the gumline. This condition is called gingivitis, and it is reversible with consistent, proper cleaning. But plaque is not the only cause. Hormonal changes, certain medications, vitamin deficiencies, and some medical conditions can also make gums swell and bleed. … Read more
Molar pain when chewing usually means something is wrong with the tooth or the structures around it. The most common causes are a cracked tooth, deep decay reaching the nerve, advanced gum disease, or referred pain from the sinuses. The pain happens because chewing puts pressure on an already inflamed or damaged area. Ignoring it … Read more
Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It spreads through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection. It can also pass from an infected mother to her baby during childbirth. The bacteria infect mucous membranes, including the cervix, urethra, throat, and rectum. Casual contact like … Read more
If you think a contact lens might still be in your eye, start by checking your vision. If both eyes see clearly, the lens likely fell out. If one eye is blurry or uncomfortable, the lens is probably still on your eye or slightly out of position. Look in a mirror with good lighting. Gently … Read more
If you feel bloated, you want something that works fast. Over-the-counter simethicone (sold as Gas-X, Phazyme, and generic brands) breaks up gas bubbles in your digestive tract. Peppermint oil capsules help relax the muscles in your gut, especially if bloating is linked to irritable bowel syndrome. Ginger and fennel tea can soothe digestion, though evidence … Read more
Snot from a sinus infection can be clear, white, yellow, or green. Many people believe that green mucus means a bacterial infection, but this is not accurate. The color comes from immune cells called neutrophils that rush to fight the infection, and it can happen with viral infections too. So the short answer is: there … Read more
Wellbutrin (bupropion) can raise blood pressure in some people, but the increase is usually small and manageable. Clinical studies show that most people taking standard doses see a modest rise of 1 to 5 mmHg in systolic blood pressure. However, larger increases are possible, especially at higher doses or in people with existing hypertension. Understanding … Read more
Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal condition in the United States. About 1 in every 700 babies born in the U.S. has Down syndrome, which equals roughly 6,000 new diagnoses each year. In total, an estimated 200,000 Americans are currently living with the condition. Global numbers are less precise, but most estimates place the … Read more
Almond milk is not bad for you for most people. Unsweetened almond milk is a low-calorie, dairy-free option that fits well into many diets. However, it lacks protein naturally and may contain added sugars or stabilizers that some people prefer to avoid. Choosing unsweetened, fortified versions gives you the most benefit with the least downside. … Read more
If you are sore after every workout, you are experiencing delayed onset muscle soreness, or DOMS. This is the result of microscopic damage to your muscle fibers and the inflammation that follows. It is a normal response to exercise that your muscles are not used to — especially when you increase intensity, try new movements, … Read more