Key Takeaways Worry about milk supply is common, especially during the first few weeks after birth. However, cluster feeding, softer breasts, shorter feeds, evening fussiness, or a low amount from one pumping session do not automatically mean that your supply is low. Milk production generally responds to how frequently and effectively milk is removed. Correcting…
Key Takeaways A late period can be stressful, particularly when you want it to start before a trip or important event. However, there is no medically proven home method that can reliably induce a period immediately. The safest next step is to rule out pregnancy and consider why the period may be late. Treatment, when…
Sinus pressure can feel like fullness, aching, or tenderness around the forehead, cheeks, eyes, or bridge of the nose. It commonly develops when inflammation narrows the drainage openings in the nose and sinuses. Colds, allergies, and sinus infections are common causes. However, not all facial pressure or headaches are caused by sinus problems. Migraine, dental…
Key Takeaways HDL is commonly called “good” cholesterol because it helps transport cholesterol toward the liver for processing. However, raising HDL should not be your only goal. The American Heart Association does not consider HDL a treatment target by itself. LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and family history are also important when assessing…
Key takeaways Quitting smoking can be difficult because nicotine causes dependence—not because you lack willpower. A practical quit plan combines preparation, proven treatment, strategies for managing cravings, and continued support. Stopping smoking improves health at any age, including for people who have smoked heavily or for many years. The benefits begin soon after the last…
Key Takeaways You cannot know for certain that you have diabetes based only on how you feel. The reliable way to find out is to have appropriate blood tests performed or ordered by a healthcare professional. Symptoms can provide an important warning, but some people—especially those with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes—have mild symptoms or…
Key Takeaways Tonsil stones are usually harmless, but they can cause bad breath, an unpleasant taste, throat irritation, coughing, ear discomfort, or the feeling that something is stuck in your throat. The safest approach is to begin with noninvasive measures such as warm salt-water gargling, drinking enough water, and maintaining good oral hygiene. Do not…
Most uncomplicated sore throats can be managed at home with fluids, rest, soothing treatments, and appropriate pain relief. However, a sore throat can occasionally be a sign of strep throat or a more serious condition, so it is important to recognize the warning signs. Viruses are the most common cause of a sore throat. Group…
Key Takeaways Many people searching for how to lose face fat want slimmer cheeks or a more defined jawline. However, there is no reliable way to make the body burn fat only from the face. When weight loss is appropriate, the face may gradually become slimmer as overall body fat decreases. In other cases, what…
Key takeaways Can you lower cholesterol naturally? Many people can improve their cholesterol levels through changes in diet, physical activity, body weight, and other daily habits. Diet changes—especially replacing saturated fat and eating more soluble fiber—usually have the most direct effect on low-density lipoprotein, or LDL cholesterol. LDL-containing particles can enter artery walls and contribute…
Key Takeaways You may have a concussion if new symptoms begin after hitting your head, falling, being involved in a collision, or experiencing a forceful movement that makes your head move rapidly. Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion, memory problems, balance difficulties, unusual tiredness, and sensitivity to light or noise. However, symptoms alone cannot…
Learning how to jump higher is not simply a matter of completing hundreds of repetitions. Vertical-jump performance depends on how much force you can produce, how quickly you can produce it, and how effectively you direct that force against the ground. For most people, the best approach combines jumping technique, lower-body strength, plyometric exercises, gradual…
Key Takeaways High blood pressure can often be improved through lifestyle changes. The most effective methods include a healthier diet, regular exercise, better sleep, and lower sodium intake. However, lifestyle changes may not be enough for everyone. Some people also need medication to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. Measure Your…
A sore throat cannot always be cured immediately, but simple home treatments can reduce pain while your throat recovers. Most sore throats are caused by viruses and improve without antibiotics. What Is the Fastest Way to Soothe a Sore Throat? The fastest way to feel better is to combine hydration, rest, and a soothing treatment….
Metabolism is often described as though it were a switch that could be turned up with the right drink, food, supplement, or workout. In reality, metabolic rate is influenced by body size, body composition, age, genetics, hormones, health conditions, medications, and activity levels. You cannot control every factor. However, you can increase your total daily…
Key Takeaways Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, the muscle beneath the lungs that helps you breathe. Each contraction is followed by a sudden closure of the opening between the vocal cords, producing the familiar “hic” sound. Most episodes are short and disappear without treatment. When trying to stop hiccups, use one gentle technique…
Key Takeaways What Testosterone Does and Signs It May Be Low Testosterone helps support sexual function, sperm production, muscle and bone health, mood, energy, and red blood cell production. Levels can change because of age, sleep, weight, stress, illness, alcohol, medications, and time of day. Low testosterone may cause reduced sex drive, erection problems, fatigue,…
A stye is a small, painful lump that forms on or inside an eyelid. It often looks like a pimple near the eyelashes and may cause redness, tenderness, swelling, watering, or crusting. Most styes are harmless and clear without medical treatment. The safest way to support healing is to apply a warm compress, keep the…
Key Takeaways What Is Cortisol? Cortisol is a steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands, which sit on top of your kidneys. It helps regulate stress response, blood pressure, blood sugar, metabolism, inflammation, and the sleep-wake cycle. Cortisol is often called the “stress hormone,” but it is not harmful by itself. Your body needs cortisol…
Key Takeaways Occasional difficulty falling asleep is common. Stress, caffeine, an irregular schedule, pain, medication effects, and an uncomfortable bedroom can all interfere with sleep. The goal is not to force sleep. Instead, reduce stimulation, relax your body, and create conditions that make sleep more likely. What to Do Right Now Why Forcing Sleep Can…
