What’s bothering you today?

Headaches are one of the most common health complaints worldwide and can range from mild tension-type to severe migraines with nausea and light sensitivity. Tension headaches often feel like a tight band around the head and are frequently triggered by stress, poor sleep, or prolonged screen time. Migraines typically involve throbbing pain on one side, sometimes preceded by aura (visual disturbances). Common triggers include certain foods (chocolate, cheese, alcohol), dehydration, hormonal changes, and weather shifts. Most headaches improve with rest, hydration, over-the-counter pain relievers, and stress management. Migraine-specific medications or preventive treatments may be needed for frequent attacks. Always consult a doctor if headaches are sudden and severe ("thunderclap"), accompanied by confusion, vision loss, or follow a head injury.

Dizziness is a sensation of being unsteady, woozy, or feeling like the room is spinning (vertigo). Common causes include inner-ear issues (benign paroxysmal positional vertigo, labyrinthitis), dehydration, low blood pressure, anxiety, or standing up too quickly. It can also occur with low blood sugar, certain medications, or migraines. Most episodes are brief and harmless, but recurrent or severe dizziness warrants medical evaluation. Staying hydrated, eating regularly, and moving slowly when changing positions often help. Seek immediate care if dizziness comes with chest pain, fainting, slurred speech, or weakness.

Brain fog isn't a medical diagnosis but describes difficulty focusing, memory lapses, and mental sluggishness. It's commonly linked to lack of sleep, chronic stress, poor diet, dehydration, hormonal changes, or long-term effects of illnesses. Low levels of vitamin B12, iron, or thyroid problems can also contribute. Simple fixes often include better sleep hygiene, regular exercise, balanced meals, and staying hydrated. Persistent brain fog lasting weeks should prompt a check-up with a healthcare provider.

Tension-type headaches are the most frequent kind and feel like a constant pressure or tightness around the forehead or back of the head and neck. They're often triggered by stress, anxiety, poor posture, eye strain, or clenching the jaw. Unlike migraines, they rarely cause nausea or light sensitivity. Over-the-counter pain relievers, stretching, heat or cold packs, and stress-reduction techniques usually bring relief. Improving ergonomics and taking regular screen breaks can prevent them. See a doctor if headaches become daily or don't respond to usual treatments.

Cluster headaches are extremely painful attacks that occur in cyclical patterns or "clusters," often at the same time daily or seasonally. The pain is usually one-sided, centered around one eye, and described as burning or stabbing. Attacks last 15 minutes to 3 hours and may happen multiple times a day. They're more common in men and often wake people from sleep. Triggers can include alcohol, strong smells, or changes in sleep patterns. Treatment usually requires prescription medication; oxygen therapy is also effective for many. Seek immediate medical attention the first time you experience this type of severe pain.

A sore throat is usually caused by viral infections (common cold, flu), post-nasal drip, dry air, allergies, or voice strain. Most cases feel scratchy and worsen with swallowing; they resolve in 3–7 days without antibiotics. Gargling warm salt water, staying hydrated, lozenges, and rest often bring quick relief. Strep throat (bacterial) needs a doctor visit and antibiotics because it can cause fever, white patches, and swollen tonsils. Seek medical care if pain is severe, lasts over a week, or comes with high fever, rash, or difficulty breathing.

Nasal congestion and runny nose are classic signs of colds, allergies, sinus infections, or dry indoor air. Congestion happens when blood vessels in the nose swell; a runny nose is the body flushing out viruses or allergens. Saline sprays, steam inhalation, humidifiers, and OTC decongestants or antihistamines usually help. Persistent stuffiness beyond 10–14 days or thick green/yellow discharge may signal a sinus infection needing medical review.

Ear discomfort often stems from colds (Eustachian tube blockage), swimmer's ear, sinus pressure, or altitude changes. Children frequently get ear infections after a cold. Warm compresses, chewing gum, and OTC pain relievers can ease mild cases. Severe pain, fever over 102 °F, drainage, or sudden hearing loss requires urgent medical attention to rule out infection or eardrum issues. Never place anything inside the ear canal without a doctor's advice.

Post-nasal drip occurs when excess mucus from the nose drips down the back of the throat, causing cough, sore throat, or bad breath. Common triggers include allergies, colds, spicy foods, or cold weather. Staying hydrated, using saline rinses, sleeping with the head elevated, and antihistamines (if allergy-related) often reduce symptoms. Chronic drip lasting months may indicate allergies or silent reflux and should be evaluated.

Temporary loss of smell (anosmia) and taste is most often caused by viral upper-respiratory infections, nasal congestion, or sinusitis. Most people regain senses within weeks once congestion clears. Smell-training with strong scents (lemon, clove, rose, eucalyptus) twice daily can speed recovery. Sudden or permanent loss, especially without congestion, warrants evaluation for neurological causes or nasal polyps.

A cough is the body's way of clearing irritants or mucus from the airways. Dry coughs often come from viral infections, allergies, or acid reflux, while wet (productive) coughs usually signal chest colds or bronchitis. Most last 1–3 weeks and improve with rest, honey (for adults), hydration, and humidified air. Coughs lasting over 3 weeks, bringing up blood, or paired with weight loss need medical evaluation. Seek urgent care if breathing becomes difficult or lips turn blue.

Feeling short of breath can stem from anxiety, being out of shape, allergies, asthma flare-ups, or heart/lung conditions. Sudden or severe shortness of breath, especially with chest pain, fainting, or swelling in the legs, is an emergency—call your local emergency number immediately. Gradual onset may improve with slow breathing techniques, sitting upright, or using an inhaler (if prescribed). Persistent or worsening breathlessness always requires professional evaluation.

Chest tightness or pressure is commonly caused by anxiety, muscle strain, acid reflux, asthma, or respiratory infections. It can feel like a heavy weight or band around the chest. Simple triggers include stress, cold air, or exercise. Relaxing breathing, warmth, and antacids (if reflux-related) often help. Any new, severe, or radiating chest tightness—especially with jaw/arm pain or sweating—must be treated as a potential heart emergency until proven otherwise.

Wheezing is a high-pitched whistling sound when breathing, usually on exhale, caused by narrowed airways. Common causes include asthma, allergies, bronchitis, or inhaled irritants. Mild wheezing may respond to leaving the trigger area and using a prescribed inhaler. New or worsening wheezing, especially with rapid breathing or blue lips, needs urgent medical care. Children under 5 wheezing for the first time should always see a doctor quickly.

Stomach pain ranges from mild discomfort to severe cramping and is often caused by gas, indigestion, constipation, menstrual cramps, or viral gastroenteritis ("stomach bug"). Most cases improve within hours to a couple of days with rest, hydration, light bland foods, and over-the-counter remedies. Pain that is sudden and severe, located in one specific spot, or worsens with movement may signal appendicitis, gallstones, or ulcers and requires immediate medical attention. Persistent or recurring pain should always be evaluated by a doctor.

Nausea and vomiting are common with stomach viruses, food intolerance, motion sickness, pregnancy, migraines, or medication side effects. Most episodes resolve on their own within 24–48 hours. Staying hydrated with small sips of water or electrolyte drinks, eating bland foods (crackers, toast), and rest usually help. Vomiting that lasts over 24 hours, contains blood, or is accompanied by severe headache/stiff neck needs urgent evaluation.

Heartburn feels like a burning sensation rising from the stomach or lower chest, often after meals or when lying down. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Common triggers include spicy/fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, and large meals. Lifestyle changes (smaller meals, avoiding lying down right after eating, raising the head of the bed) and OTC antacids or acid reducers usually bring relief. Frequent heartburn (more than twice a week) or difficulty swallowing warrants medical review.

Bloating and excessive gas are usually caused by swallowed air, certain foods (beans, broccoli, carbonated drinks), lactose intolerance, or constipation. Eating slowly, avoiding gum/chewing, and gentle walking often reduce symptoms quickly. Over-the-counter simethicone or digestive enzymes can help. Persistent or painful bloating, especially with weight loss or blood in stool, should be checked by a doctor.

Diarrhea and constipation are very common and often alternate. Diarrhea is frequently triggered by viruses, food poisoning, or stress; constipation by low fiber, dehydration, or lack of movement. Most cases improve with hydration, dietary adjustments (more fiber/water for constipation, bland diet for diarrhea), and short-term OTC remedies. Diarrhea lasting over 48 hours, high fever, or blood/black stools, and constipation with severe pain or vomiting require medical attention.

Indigestion (dyspepsia) feels like fullness, burning, or discomfort in the upper abdomen after eating. Common causes include overeating, fatty/spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, or stress. Eating smaller portions, avoiding triggers, and taking antacids usually resolve it. Ongoing indigestion, especially with unintentional weight loss, difficulty swallowing, or vomiting, should be evaluated medically.

Rashes and hives (raised, itchy welts) are commonly triggered by allergic reactions, insect bites, viral infections, heat, or contact with irritants like poison ivy. Most mild rashes fade within hours to days with cool compresses, oatmeal baths, and over-the-counter hydrocortisone or antihistamines. A rash that spreads rapidly, involves blisters, fever, or swelling of the face/lips needs immediate medical attention. Widespread hives lasting more than 6 weeks may indicate an underlying condition requiring evaluation.

Itching of the skin or eyes is frequently caused by allergies (pollen, dust, pet dander), dry skin, eczema, or insect bites. Cool showers, fragrance-free moisturizers, and oral or topical antihistamines usually provide quick relief. Persistent itching, especially at night or with skin thickening, can point to eczema, scabies, or liver/kidney issues and should be checked by a doctor. Severe eye itching with redness or discharge may signal allergic conjunctivitis.

Seasonal allergies (hay fever) cause sneezing, itchy/watery eyes, runny nose, and congestion when pollen counts are high. Avoiding triggers, using saline nasal rinses, air purifiers, and daily non-drowsy antihistamines or nasal steroids effectively control symptoms for most people. Symptoms that don't improve with OTC treatment or last year-round may suggest perennial allergies or sinus problems needing further evaluation.

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) appears as dry, red, intensely itchy patches, often on the hands, elbows, or knees. Triggers include stress, weather changes, harsh soaps, and certain foods. Regular use of thick fragrance-free moisturizers, gentle cleansing, and prescription-strength steroid creams during flares keep it under control for many. Severe or infected eczema (oozing, crusting) requires medical treatment.

Most insect bites (mosquitoes, fleas, bed bugs) cause localized redness, swelling, and itching that resolve in a few days. Washing the area, applying cold packs, and using calamine lotion or hydrocortisone cream speeds comfort. Bites that become increasingly painful, warm, or pus-filled may be infected and need antibiotics. Signs of a severe allergic reaction (widespread hives, throat swelling, dizziness) require emergency care.

Back pain is one of the most common complaints and usually comes from muscle strain, poor posture, heavy lifting, or prolonged sitting. Most episodes improve within days to weeks with rest, gentle stretching, heat/ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. Sudden severe pain after a fall, pain that shoots down the leg, or numbness/weakness requires immediate medical evaluation. Chronic back pain lasting over 6–12 weeks often benefits from physical therapy or specialist review.

Neck and shoulder pain frequently stems from muscle tension, sleeping awkwardly, carrying heavy bags, or long hours at a desk. Simple fixes include posture correction, ergonomic adjustments, gentle neck rolls, and warm compresses. Pain that follows an injury, radiates to the arms, or includes headaches/dizziness should be checked promptly. Persistent pain may signal a pinched nerve or disc issue.

Knee and other joint pain often results from overuse, minor injuries, arthritis, or bursitis. Rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and anti-inflammatory medication usually help mild cases. Swelling that appears quickly, inability to bear weight, or locking/catching of the joint needs medical assessment. Long-term joint pain with morning stiffness may indicate osteoarthritis or inflammatory conditions.

Generalized muscle aches commonly follow exercise (delayed-onset muscle soreness), viral illnesses, or stress-related tension. Light movement, hydration, stretching, and warm baths speed recovery. Widespread muscle pain with fatigue, sleep issues, or tender points could suggest fibromyalgia or other systemic conditions. Severe or sudden muscle pain with dark urine requires urgent evaluation for rhabdomyolysis.

Sprains affect ligaments (often ankle or wrist); strains affect muscles or tendons. Both cause pain, swelling, and limited movement. Follow RICE protocol for the first 48–72 hours, then gentle movement as tolerated. Inability to walk more than a few steps, visible deformity, or numbness means an X-ray or medical exam is needed. Repeated sprains may benefit from bracing and physical therapy.

Difficulty falling asleep is often linked to stress, caffeine late in the day, irregular schedules, or screen light before bed. Most people benefit from a consistent bedtime, a dark cool bedroom, and avoiding phones/TV 30–60 minutes before sleep. Relaxation techniques like deep breathing or light reading help calm racing thoughts. Persistent insomnia lasting weeks may improve with cognitive behavioral techniques or medical review.

Feeling unrefreshed despite adequate sleep hours can come from poor sleep quality, sleep apnea, restless legs, or frequent night awakenings. Keeping a regular sleep-wake schedule, limiting alcohol, and exercising earlier in the day often help. Loud snoring, gasping during sleep, or daytime sleepiness despite 7–9 hours suggests possible sleep apnea needing evaluation.

Excessive daytime tiredness is commonly caused by insufficient sleep, stress, poor diet, dehydration, or low iron/vitamin D levels. Short-term fixes include consistent sleep hours, balanced meals, hydration, and brief daytime walks in sunlight. Fatigue that lasts weeks, interferes with daily activities, or comes with unexplained weight changes deserves medical investigation.

Restless legs syndrome creates an irresistible urge to move the legs, usually worse in the evening or when resting. Triggers include low iron, certain medications, caffeine, or pregnancy. Gentle leg stretches before bed, warm baths, and avoiding alcohol/caffeine often reduce symptoms. Severe cases that disrupt sleep may respond to prescription medication or further testing.

Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhea) affect most women at some point and feel like dull or throbbing pain in the lower abdomen, sometimes radiating to the back or thighs. They're caused by uterine contractions triggered by prostaglandins. Heating pads, ibuprofen or naproxen taken at the start of the period, light exercise, and hydration usually bring significant relief. Cramps that are suddenly much worse, don't respond to OTC pain relievers, or interfere with daily life may signal endometriosis or fibroids and should be evaluated.

Periods are considered irregular if the cycle length varies by more than 7–9 days, or if cycles are shorter than 21 days or longer than 35 days. Common causes include stress, significant weight change, intense exercise, PCOS, thyroid issues, or perimenopause. Tracking cycles for a few months helps identify patterns. Consistently irregular or absent periods warrant blood tests and possibly an ultrasound.

Premenstrual syndrome includes mood swings, bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, and food cravings in the 1–2 weeks before a period. Lifestyle measures like regular exercise, adequate sleep, limiting caffeine/salt, and calcium or magnesium supplements ease symptoms for many women. Severe mood changes or physical symptoms that disrupt life may indicate premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) needing medical management.

Vaginal yeast infections cause thick white discharge, intense itching, and burning, especially around the vulva. They're triggered by antibiotics, hormonal changes, diabetes, or tight/non-breathable clothing. Over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories (miconazole or clotrimazole) clear most cases in 1–7 days. Recurring infections (4+ per year) or symptoms that don't improve require a doctor visit to confirm diagnosis and rule out other causes.

Symptoms like burning during urination, frequent/urgent need to pee, or lower abdominal discomfort often indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI). Drinking plenty of water, urinating after intercourse, and wiping front-to-back reduce risk. Most UTIs need prescription antibiotics; untreated infections can spread to the kidneys. Blood in urine, flank pain, fever, or symptoms lasting more than 48 hours require prompt medical care.