I recently returned from a vacation at a lake and developed a cold, which has now led to a plugged ear. The ear doesn't hurt but sounds are muffled, and it feels plugged. I've had a cough since Tuesday and feel congested in my head. I'm 26 years old, not using any medications, and have been dealing with some popping and stuffy ears for a couple of weeks before this cold. Can a cold cause this, and is there anything I can do to alleviate the symptoms?

July 22nd, 2023

I had food poisoning a few months ago and since then, I've experienced consistent stomach issues including constipation, diarrhea, mild burning sensations, harsh bloating, and mild stomach pain in flares. I'm 21 years old, male, and have a family history of IBS and Crohn's Disease. What could be causing these symptoms and what can I do to manage them until my doctor's appointment?

February 8th, 2024

If I am intimate with someone who has the HPV 16 strain but contracted it years ago, how long is it contagious? I know that someone with the other strains stop being contagious once their body clears the virus. If you never clear the virus are you always contagious? Additionally, what are the risks associated with performing oral sex on someone with HPV, and how can I determine if I have an oral HPV infection or related health issues?

July 6th, 2023

I accidentally consumed mouse feces or food contaminated by it 3 hours ago. I have not experienced any symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, but I took Xanax for anxiety. Should I be worried about potential health risks?

June 7th, 2023

My husband had hip replacement surgery on Tuesday and is on blood thinners due to previous pulmonary embolisms. He has developed redness around the dressing, significant swelling from the hip to the knee, and extensive bruising. The swelling is slowly getting worse. What could be causing this and what should we do?

November 3rd, 2024