What is the correct term for the plastic piece used during blood draws, and why is it safe to reuse without cleaning between patients?

August 26th, 2024

I feel queasy all the time, I am bloated, and my bowel movements are irregular. I have had a colonoscopy and gastroscopy, and I know my food intolerances. I have been experiencing these symptoms for about 2 weeks, which seem stable. I also have nausea and stool changes. I am 30 years old and currently use a probiotic. I have had stomach issues all my life, but I never usually suffer this constantly. What could be causing these symptoms and what can I do to alleviate them?

January 18th, 2024

My son, who is 20 years old, has had his third pneumothorax and failed the water seal test. He has had a chest tube for 10 days and needs to be transported safely for 4 hours by ambulance to a better hospital in Seattle. Is it safe for him to leave the hospital with a Heimlich valve, and should he be transported by ambulance or another method?

August 22nd, 2023

I have a constant, sharp sore throat that started a few days ago and has worsened today, accompanied by significant fatigue and a white dot on my tonsil. I have no runny nose, cough, fever, body aches, or difficulty breathing. My COVID test was negative, and I'm unsure if I should go to the ER tonight or wait until tomorrow morning for a strep throat and mono test.

May 15th, 2024

Would an abdominal ultrasound pick up on pancreatic cancer, and should I be concerned about other potential health issues such as leukemia, lymphoma, or H. pylori given my symptoms of weight loss, lack of appetite, and anxiety?

September 4th, 2024