If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), you may wonder if your toothpaste purchase counts as a qualified medical expense. The short answer is no. Standard toothpaste is not FSA-eligible. The IRS does not consider it a medical expense because its purpose is general oral hygiene, not the treatment or prevention of a specific … Read more
Low blood pressure, also called hypotension, is when your blood pressure reading falls below 90/60 mmHg. For many people, it causes no symptoms and requires no treatment. But when it drops enough to cause dizziness, fainting, or fatigue, it usually points to an underlying issue with how your body regulates blood flow. The causes range … Read more
Neck tattoos hurt. Most people who have them will tell you that plainly. The skin on the neck is thin, and it sits directly over bones, nerves, and major blood vessels. That combination makes the neck one of the most painful areas to get tattooed, especially compared to fleshy spots like the upper arm or … Read more
Many people reach for a cup of tea after a heavy meal, hoping for relief. The research shows that certain teas can genuinely support digestion, while others are mostly marketing. Peppermint, ginger, and chamomile have the strongest evidence for soothing the digestive tract. These teas work through different mechanisms, and knowing which one fits your … Read more
Most people assume fire deaths come from burns. The evidence says otherwise. The majority of fire-related deaths are caused by smoke inhalation, not by the flames themselves. Smoke moves faster than fire, fills a room in minutes, and contains a mix of toxic gases that can disable a person within seconds. Understanding this distinction is … Read more
Life expectancy is not a fixed number. It is a statistical estimate based on averages, but your personal number depends on many factors you can actually measure. The most accurate way to calculate your life expectancy is to start with national mortality data and then adjust for your specific health history, lifestyle habits, and family … Read more
An externalized VP shunt means the drainage tube has been brought outside the body, usually to treat an infection. Care focuses on keeping the exit site sterile, monitoring for complications, and managing the drainage system safely. This is a temporary setup, and the goal is to clear the infection so a new shunt can be … Read more
An MRI scan is a common imaging test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. Preparing for one is mostly about following specific instructions from your doctor and the imaging center, particularly regarding metal objects and eating. You will lie still inside a … Read more
Swollen upper eyelids are common, and most cases are temporary and harmless. The cause is usually fluid retention, allergies, or an irritant like dust or makeup. However, swelling can also signal an infection or an underlying health issue, so knowing when to treat it at home and when to see a doctor matters. What Causes … Read more
Most tick bites are harmless and cause no more than a small red bump. But some ticks carry bacteria that can make you sick. The key is knowing what to watch for and when. If you develop a fever, headache, muscle aches, or a distinctive rash within 30 days of a tick bite, see a … Read more