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Most people who faint recover quickly. But it is essential to make sure it is not a more serious emergency. If possible, help the person lie down. Check for breathing, signs of circulation, as well as any other injuries. If they wake up, do not rush them to sit up or stand. Call 911 if they do not regain … read more
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Most cases of food poisoning get better with rest, fluids, and time. The biggest concern is dehydration, so replacing lost fluids is important. However, severe vomiting or diarrhea, blood in the stool, a high fever, confusion, fainting, or signs of serious dehydration may mean it’s time to seek medical care. Babies, older adults, pregnant people, and those with weakened … read more
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A sprained toe and a broken toe can both cause pain, swelling, bruising, and trouble walking, making it difficult to tell them apart. A sprain involves injured ligaments, while a broken toe means one or more bones have fractured. Learn what signs to look for, what you can safely do at home, and when severe pain, deformity, numbness, or … read more
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An amputation is always a medical emergency. Call 911 immediately, control severe bleeding with direct pressure or a tourniquet if needed, and treat the person for shock. Preserve the amputated body part by wrapping it in a clean, moist cloth, sealing it in a plastic bag, and keeping it cool, but never place it directly on ice. Immediate first … read more
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Rolled your ankle and not sure if it’s just a sprain or a fracture? While both injuries can cause pain, swelling, and bruising, a broken ankle often causes more severe pain, difficulty bearing weight, or a visible deformity. Learn the warning signs, when to use the RICE method, when an X-ray may be needed, and when it’s time to … read more
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Blood sugar can become dangerously high or dangerously low, and both situations can quickly become life-threatening if left untreated. Learn how to recognize the symptoms of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia, when to seek emergency medical care, and how serious complications like hypoglycemic shock, diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), and hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) develop. Knowing the warning signs could help save a … read more
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Not every burn is an emergency, but some need immediate medical attention. If a burn is deep, covers a large area, affects the face, hands, feet, genitals, or major joints, or was caused by chemicals or electricity, don’t wait to get help. This guide explains how to tell the difference between minor and serious burns, what first aid to … read more
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Your ejection fraction (EF) is one of the most important numbers for understanding how well your heart is pumping blood. If you’ve recently had an echocardiogram or other heart test, knowing what your EF means can help you better understand your heart health. This guide explains what a normal EF looks like, what can cause it to be low, … read more
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Vaping is often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, but that doesn’t mean it’s safe. From nicotine addiction and lung damage to heart health concerns and unknown long-term effects, vaping carries real risks for both teens and adults. Learn what’s actually in a vape, how it affects your body, and why quitting can be one of the best … read more
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The food pyramid has changed, and so has what we know about healthy eating. Learn how today’s nutrition recommendations emphasize whole foods, healthy fats, and balanced eating patterns to support better heart health and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease.
For decades, Americans relied on the USDA Food Pyramid as a guide to healthy eating. Bread, … read more