Increased intracranial pressure: What to know
Doctors call the pressure inside a person’s skull the intracranial pressure or ICP, and it can increase with a head injury or medical condition, such as fluid on the brain. Here, we discuss the...
View ArticleEverything you need to know about antifreeze poisoning
People who suspect that they or someone else has antifreeze poisoning should seek immediate medical care. Symptoms develop slowly, so it is important to seek help even if no symptoms are present. Early...
View ArticleWhat to know about diabetic shock
Diabetic shock occurs when a person’s blood sugar levels become dangerously low. Diabetic shock is not a medical term, but people sometimes use it to refer to severe hypoglycemia. This article provides...
View ArticleWhat to know about a broken nose
A broken nose can result from a forceful impact to the face. Symptoms typically include pain, swelling, and bleeding. A person can often treat minor nose breaks at home, but more severe injuries may...
View ArticleDiabetic ketoacidosis: What to know
Diabetic ketoacidosis is a medical emergency that can occur in people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. In this article, learn about the symptoms and underlying causes. We also cover treatment and...
View ArticleWhat can cause a bump on the back of the head?
A bump or lump on the back of the head is often due to an injury. People with severe head injuries or symptoms of concussion should seek immediate medical attention. Other possible causes of a bump on...
View ArticleHow long you can live without water
The human body requires water to function properly. The ideal amount a person needs depends on several factors including age, sex, and physical activity levels. Learn more here.
View ArticleSecond-degree burn: Everything you need to know
A second-degree burn is more severe than a first-degree burn. It affects the epidermis and dermis, or the outer and second layers of skin. In this article, learn more about second-degree burns,...
View ArticleWhat to know about open wound care
An open wound leaves internal tissue exposed. They require special care depending on the type of wound. Minor open wounds may not require medical treatment. Learn more about open wound care, including...
View ArticleWhat to do in the event of a heart attack
Symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain and shortness of breath. People should call the emergency services if they suspect a heart attack. Risk factors include age. Learn more here.
View ArticleWhat is the normal range for troponin levels?
Troponin levels in the blood are normally very low and increase when the heart becomes damaged. Very high levels usually indicate that a person has recently had a heart attack. However, a number of...
View ArticleWhat causes pupils of different sizes?
The medical term for pupils of different sizes is anisocoria. Find out about the possible causes of anisocoria here, as well as when to seek emergency treatment.
View ArticleWhat to know about status asthmaticus
Status asthmaticus is a life-threatening asthma state with symptoms that include anxiety, fatigue, and shortness of breath. An inhaler may not treat the symptoms, so a person should seek immediate...
View ArticleEverything you need to know about infant botulism
Infant botulism is an illness that can occur when a baby ingests the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. It causes a range of symptoms and can be fatal without treatment. Learn more here.
View ArticleCan you overdose on Adderall?
Adderall is a psychostimulant. While it helps treat some conditions, it also has side effects and risks, including the risk of overdose. Learn about the symptoms of an Adderall overdose and what to do...
View ArticleWhat to know about brain aneurysms
Brain aneurysms affect 3–5% of people in the U.S. during their lifetime. When they rupture, they can cause a stroke. Learn about their symptoms, causes, and treatment here.
View ArticleEverything you need to know about broken ribs
Broken ribs are a common injury following an accident or fall. In this article, learn about how to identify the symptoms and what to expect from treatment and recovery.
View ArticleWhat do code blue and other hospital codes mean?
Code blue alerts hospital staff to a patient emergency, such as cardiac arrest or a breathing problem. Learn more about code blue and other hospital codes in this article.
View ArticleWhat to do if someone has food stuck in their throat
Sometimes, food can become stuck in the esophagus or windpipe within the throat. Depending on the location of the blockage and the person’s symptoms, this can be a medical emergency. Learn more here.
View ArticleWhat to do for boiling water burns
Boiling water burns, or scalds, can be mild to severe. In this article, learn how to identify the severity and perform first aid for the burn. We also describe when to see a doctor.
View ArticleWhat to know about serotonin syndrome
Serotonin syndrome occurs when a person takes one or more drugs that cause a buildup of serotonin in the body. Find out the causes, symptoms, and treatments of serotonin syndrome here.
View ArticleWhen is constipation an emergency?
Mild constipation is common. However, constipation can indicate a medical emergency, especially when it accompanies other symptoms. Learn more here.
View ArticleEverything you need to know about shock
Shock is a medical emergency that causes several symptoms, some of which are life threatening. Learn more about shock and how to treat it in this article.
View ArticleWhat to know about a tracheostomy
A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that can help a person breathe. Here, find out when the procedure is necessary, what it involves, and its associated risks.
View ArticleWhat to do if bleach gets on the skin
Bleach is corrosive and can cause irritation if it comes into contact with the skin, eyes, or airways. Learn what to do about exposure here.
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