Chest Cold (Acute Bronchitis) Basics
KEY POINTS Cough keeping you up at night? Soreness in your chest and feeling tired? You could have a chest cold, often called acute bronchitis. A virus usually causes chest colds. Antibiotics will not help you get better if you have a chest cold. If you’re healthy without heart or lung problems or a weakened […]
Handwashing Facts
WHAT TO KNOW Many diseases and conditions are spread by not washing hands with soap and clean, running water. CDC recommends cleaning hands in a specific way to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others. The recommendations for effective handwashing and use of hand sanitizer was developed based on data from a number of […]
May National Health Observances: Physical Fitness, Mental Health, Older Adults, and More
Posted on April 24, 2023 by ODPHP Each month we highlight select National Health Observances (NHOs) that align with our priorities for improving health in the United States. In May, we are raising awareness about physical fitness, older adults, mental health, women’s health, and HIV awareness. We’ve listed some resources below that you can use […]
Definition & Facts for Kidney Stones
In this section: What are kidney stones? Do kidney stones have another name? What type of kidney stones do I have? How common are kidney stones? Who is more likely to develop kidney stones? What are the complications of kidney stones? What are kidney stones? Kidney stones are hard, pebble-like pieces of material that form […]
Epilepsy and Seizures
ON THIS PAGE What are epilepsy and seizures? Who is more likely to have epilepsy and seizures? Types of seizures Types of epilepsy How are epilepsy and seizures diagnosed and treated? How can I or my loved one live with epilepsy and seizures? What are the latest updates on epilepsy and seizures? How can I […]
Working Out to Stay Sharp
Can Exercise Keep Your Brain Healthier? En español Send us your comments (link sends e-mail) We’ve all heard that exercise is good for us. Experts recommend getting at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. This can include brisk walking, biking, playing tennis, or even pushing a lawnmower. Strength training exercises, like lifting […]
Symptoms of Food Poisoning
KEY POINTS The most common symptoms of food poisoning include diarrhea, stomach pain or cramps, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Signs of severe food poisoning include bloody diarrhea, diarrhea that lasts more than 3 days, fever over 102°F, vomiting so often that you cannot keep liquids down, and signs of dehydration. Symptoms You can get sick […]
Winter Weather: Before, During, and After
KEY POINTS During extremely cold weather, staying warm and safe can be a challenge. Learn how to prepare for winter storms, prevent cold temperature-related health problems, and protect yourself during all stages of a winter storm. Prepare for a winter storm During extremely cold weather or winter storms, staying warm and safe can be a […]
Preventing Tick Bites
KEY POINTS Reducing exposure to ticks is the best defense against tickborne diseases. Tick exposure can occur year-round, but ticks are most active during warmer months (April-September). You and your family can take several steps to prevent tick bites. Preventing tick bites on people Before you go outdoors Know where to expect ticks. Ticks […]
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection (RSV)
About RSV WHAT TO KNOW RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV and need hospitalization. CDC recommends immunizations to protect infants, some young children, and older adults. What is RSV? Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a common respiratory […]