Asthra Health Library
Health articles for everyone
100 plain-language guides on common diseases, medicines, lab tests and staying safe with medicines.
Conditions
Acidity and GERD: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Guide
Acidity and GERD happen when stomach acid flows back into the food pipe, causing heartburn and sour burps. Most people improve with meal timing, weight control and short courses of acid-reducing medicine, but warning signs need a doctor's check.
6 min read ConditionsAcne and Pimples: Causes, Treatment and Skin Care Tips
Acne happens when oil and dead skin block hair follicles and bacteria cause swelling, often due to hormone changes. Gentle skin care and proven treatments control most acne, and early treatment of deep acne helps prevent scars.
6 min read ConditionsAllergic Rhinitis: Sneezing, Runny Nose and Dust Allergy Care
Allergic rhinitis is inflammation of the nose caused by allergens like dust mites, pollen, mould and pet fur. Avoiding triggers, saline rinses and the right antihistamines or nasal sprays control symptoms well for most people.
6 min read ConditionsAnaemia: Causes, Symptoms, Haemoglobin Test and Treatment
Anaemia means your blood has too little haemoglobin to carry enough oxygen, leaving you tired and breathless. Finding the cause with blood tests is key, and most cases, especially iron deficiency, improve well with the right treatment and diet.
7 min read ConditionsAnxiety: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Self-Help Tips
Anxiety becomes a health problem when worry or fear is strong, frequent and affects daily life. It is common and very treatable with talking therapy, self-help skills and, when needed, medicine prescribed by a doctor.
6 min read ConditionsAsthma: Symptoms, Triggers, Inhalers and Daily Control
Asthma is a long-term condition in which the airways become swollen and narrow, causing wheezing, cough and breathlessness. With the right inhalers used correctly and trigger control, most people with asthma live normal, active lives.
7 min read ConditionsChickenpox: Symptoms, Home Care, Risks and Vaccination
Chickenpox is a highly contagious viral infection that causes an itchy blistering rash and is usually mild in children. Adults, pregnant women, newborns and people with weak immunity are at higher risk of complications and should see a doctor early.
6 min read ConditionsChikungunya: Joint Pain, Symptoms, Tests and Recovery Guide
Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral fever known for severe joint pain that can last weeks or months. Rest, fluids and paracetamol help, and dengue should be ruled out before using other painkillers.
6 min read ConditionsCommon Cold: Symptoms, Home Care and When to Worry
The common cold is a mild viral infection of the nose and throat that usually clears within a week to ten days. Rest, fluids and simple symptom relief are enough for most people, and antibiotics do not help.
5 min read ConditionsConjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Causes, Care and Prevention Tips
Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is inflammation of the thin layer covering the white of the eye, usually from a virus, bacteria or allergy. Most cases settle within one to two weeks with simple hygiene, but eye pain, reduced vision or light sensitivity needs a doctor quickly.
5 min read ConditionsConstipation: Causes, Relief and When to See a Doctor
Constipation means passing hard stools less often or with straining, and it is usually caused by low fibre, too little water and inactivity. Simple diet and routine changes fix most cases, but new or persistent constipation with warning signs needs a doctor.
6 min read ConditionsDandruff: Causes, Anti-Dandruff Shampoos and Scalp Care
Dandruff is a common, harmless scalp condition linked to a yeast that lives on oily skin. Regular use of the right medicated shampoo controls it well, and a doctor should check scalp problems that do not improve.
5 min read ConditionsDengue Fever: Symptoms, Platelet Tests, Care and Warning Signs
Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral fever that most people recover from with rest, fluids and paracetamol. The danger period is often when the fever settles, so watch for warning signs and follow your doctor's advice on blood tests.
7 min read ConditionsDepression: Signs, Causes, Treatment and How to Get Help
Depression is a common, treatable illness that causes persistent low mood, loss of interest and tiredness lasting two weeks or more. Talking therapy, support and, when needed, prescribed medicine help most people recover.
7 min read ConditionsDiarrhoea in Adults: Causes, ORS, Diet and Warning Signs
Most diarrhoea in adults is caused by infection and settles within a few days with fluids and ORS. The main danger is dehydration, and blood in stools, high fever or signs of dehydration need a doctor.
6 min read ConditionsDry Cough and Wet Cough: Causes, Relief and Warning Signs
A cough is the body's way of clearing the airways and most coughs from colds settle within three weeks. A cough that lasts longer, brings up blood or comes with breathlessness or weight loss needs a doctor's check.
6 min read ConditionsEczema (Atopic Dermatitis): Symptoms, Triggers and Care
Eczema is a long-term condition in which the skin barrier is weak, leading to dry, itchy, inflamed patches that flare and settle. Regular moisturising, avoiding triggers and correct use of prescribed creams keep most people comfortable.
6 min read ConditionsFatty Liver Disease: Causes, Symptoms, Tests and Reversal
Fatty liver means extra fat has built up in the liver, usually linked to excess weight, diabetes or alcohol. It is often silent, but weight loss, healthy food, exercise and avoiding alcohol can reverse it before serious damage occurs.
6 min read ConditionsFever in Adults: Causes, Care and When to See a Doctor
Fever is the body's natural response to infection and usually settles with rest, fluids and simple fever medicine. A fever that lasts more than two to three days, or comes with warning signs, needs a doctor and often a blood test.
6 min read ConditionsFood Poisoning: Symptoms, Home Care and When to Get Help
Food poisoning is an illness caused by eating food or water contaminated with germs or their toxins, and most people recover in one to three days. The key is to replace lost fluids with ORS and to watch for signs of dehydration or severe illness.
5 min read ConditionsGastritis: Causes, Symptoms, Diet and Treatment Explained
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, most often caused by the H. pylori germ, painkillers or alcohol. Finding and treating the cause, along with simple diet changes, usually settles it.
6 min read ConditionsGout and High Uric Acid: Symptoms, Diet and Treatment
Gout is a painful arthritis caused by uric acid crystals forming in a joint, often the big toe. Attacks can be treated quickly, and long-term medicines plus diet and lifestyle changes can prevent future attacks and joint damage.
6 min read ConditionsHead Lice in Children: Signs, Safe Treatment and Prevention
Head lice are tiny insects that live on the scalp and spread through head-to-head contact, especially among school children. They are harmless but itchy, and can be cleared with careful wet combing or a suitable lice treatment used correctly.
5 min read ConditionsHeat Stroke and Dehydration: Signs, First Aid and Prevention
Dehydration and heat exhaustion can progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening emergency, during hot Indian summers. Drinking enough fluids, avoiding the midday sun and cooling a person quickly while getting medical help can save lives.
6 min read ConditionsHigh Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Causes, Signs and Care
High blood pressure is called a silent killer because it rarely causes symptoms while it damages the heart, brain and kidneys. Regular BP checks, less salt, daily activity and medicines taken exactly as prescribed keep it under control.
7 min read ConditionsHigh Cholesterol: What Your Lipid Profile Means and What to Do
High cholesterol quietly builds up fatty deposits in the arteries and raises the risk of heart attack and stroke. A lipid profile test, heart-healthy food, activity and, when needed, prescribed medicines keep it in check.
6 min read ConditionsHyperthyroidism: Overactive Thyroid Symptoms and Treatment
Hyperthyroidism means the thyroid gland makes too much hormone, speeding up the body and straining the heart. It is diagnosed with blood tests and treated with prescribed medicines, radioactive iodine or surgery, with regular follow-up.
6 min read ConditionsHypothyroidism: Symptoms, TSH Test and Thyroid Treatment
Hypothyroidism means the thyroid gland makes too little hormone, slowing down many body functions. It is easily diagnosed with a blood test and well controlled with a daily thyroid hormone tablet taken as prescribed.
6 min read ConditionsInfluenza (Flu): Symptoms, Treatment and Flu Vaccine Guide
Influenza is a contagious viral infection that causes sudden fever, body ache and tiredness, and can be serious for high-risk groups. Most people recover with rest and fluids, while a yearly flu vaccine is the best protection.
6 min read ConditionsInsomnia: Causes, Sleep Habits and Treatment That Works
Insomnia means regular difficulty falling or staying asleep that affects how you feel during the day. Better sleep habits and treating underlying causes work best, and sleeping pills should be used only on a doctor's prescription.
6 min read ConditionsIrritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS): Symptoms, Triggers and Care
Irritable bowel syndrome is a long-term gut condition that causes belly pain, bloating and changes in stool habit, without damage to the bowel. Knowing your triggers, adjusting diet and managing stress keep most people comfortable.
6 min read ConditionsJaundice and Hepatitis: Causes, Tests, Care and Prevention
Jaundice is yellowing of the eyes and skin, most often caused by hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver. Getting tested to find the cause is essential, and clean water, hygiene and vaccines prevent many cases.
7 min read ConditionsKidney Stones: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Prevention
Kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the kidney when urine is too concentrated, and they can cause severe pain as they pass. Drinking enough water is the most important way to prevent them, and fever or blocked urine with a stone is an emergency.
7 min read ConditionsKnee Osteoarthritis: Knee Pain Causes, Exercises and Care
Knee osteoarthritis is wear-and-repair damage of the knee joint that causes pain, stiffness and difficulty walking. Exercise, weight control, sensible use of pain relief and, in severe cases, surgery help people stay active.
7 min read ConditionsLower Back Pain: Common Causes, Relief and Warning Signs
Most lower back pain comes from strained muscles and joints and gets better within a few weeks with gentle movement and simple pain relief. A few warning signs, such as numbness, weakness or bladder problems, need urgent medical attention.
6 min read ConditionsMalaria: Symptoms, Blood Tests, Treatment and Prevention
Malaria is a mosquito-borne infection that causes fever with chills and can become serious if not treated promptly. A quick blood test confirms it, and completing the full course of treatment prescribed by a doctor is essential.
6 min read ConditionsMenopause: Symptoms, Health Risks and How to Manage Them
Menopause is the natural end of periods, usually in the late forties or early fifties, when the ovaries make less oestrogen. Symptoms can be eased with lifestyle changes and, for some women, medical treatment, and it is a good time to protect bone and heart health.
7 min read ConditionsMenstrual Cramps (Period Pain): Causes, Relief and Warning Signs
Menstrual cramps are caused by natural chemicals that make the womb contract during a period, and most period pain can be eased with heat, activity and simple painkillers. Severe or worsening pain may signal conditions like endometriosis and needs a doctor's check.
6 min read ConditionsMigraine: Symptoms, Triggers, Treatment and Prevention
Migraine is a common brain condition that causes repeated attacks of moderate to severe headache, often with nausea and sensitivity to light and sound. Knowing your triggers, treating attacks early and using preventive treatment when needed can greatly reduce its impact.
7 min read ConditionsMotion Sickness: Prevent Nausea in Car, Bus and Boat Travel
Motion sickness happens when the eyes and inner ear send the brain mixed signals about movement during travel. Simple seating and eating habits prevent many episodes, and medicines can help when used as advised.
5 min read ConditionsMouth Ulcers: Causes, Relief and When to Worry About Them
Most mouth ulcers are harmless and heal on their own within one to two weeks, and simple treatments can ease pain. An ulcer that lasts more than three weeks, especially in tobacco users, must be checked by a doctor or dentist.
5 min read ConditionsObesity and Weight Loss: Safe, Practical Steps That Work
Obesity is a long-term health condition, not a lack of willpower, and it raises the risk of diabetes, heart disease and joint problems. Slow, steady weight loss through better food, more movement and good sleep, with medical help when needed, brings real health benefits.
7 min read ConditionsPCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): Symptoms and Treatment
PCOS is a common hormone condition in women that affects periods, skin, weight and fertility. It cannot be cured, but healthy habits and treatment chosen with a doctor control symptoms and lower long-term risks like diabetes.
7 min read ConditionsPiles (Haemorrhoids): Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
Piles are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus, mostly caused by straining, constipation and pregnancy. Softening stools with fibre and water helps most people, but rectal bleeding should always be checked by a doctor.
6 min read ConditionsPrediabetes: Warning Signs, Tests and How to Reverse It
Prediabetes is a warning stage where blood sugar is above normal but not high enough to be called diabetes. Losing some weight, eating better and moving more can often bring sugar back to normal and delay or prevent type 2 diabetes.
6 min read ConditionsPregnancy Nutrition and Supplements: What to Eat and Why
A varied, balanced Indian diet plus doctor-advised folic acid, iron and calcium supplements supports a healthy pregnancy and baby. Food safety, regular antenatal check-ups and blood tests help prevent common problems like anaemia.
7 min read ConditionsRheumatoid Arthritis: Early Signs, Tests and Treatment
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks its own joints, causing pain, swelling and stiffness. Early diagnosis and treatment with disease-modifying medicines from a specialist can prevent joint damage and keep people active.
7 min read ConditionsRingworm (Fungal Skin Infection): Causes, Care and Treatment
Ringworm is a common fungal skin infection, not a worm, that thrives in heat, sweat and humidity. It needs the right antifungal treatment used for long enough, and creams containing steroids should never be used without a doctor's advice.
6 min read ConditionsScabies: Itching, Rash, Treatment and Stopping the Spread
Scabies is a very itchy skin infestation caused by tiny mites that spread through close skin contact. It is treated with prescribed creams or tablets, and everyone in the household should be treated at the same time to stop it coming back.
5 min read ConditionsSore Throat: Causes, Relief and When You Need a Doctor
A sore throat is usually caused by a virus and gets better within a week with simple care. Difficulty swallowing or breathing, a very high fever or a sore throat lasting more than a week needs a doctor.
5 min read ConditionsTension Headache: Causes, Relief and How to Prevent It
Tension-type headache is the most common kind of headache, felt as a dull, pressing band around the head. It usually responds to rest, simple pain relief used sparingly and healthy daily habits, but some warning signs need a doctor.
5 min read ConditionsToothache and Dental Care: Causes, Relief and Prevention
Toothache is usually a sign of tooth decay, gum disease or infection, and it needs a dentist rather than just painkillers. Twice-daily brushing with fluoride toothpaste, less sugar and regular dental check-ups prevent most problems.
6 min read ConditionsTuberculosis (TB): Symptoms, Free Tests, Treatment and Care
Tuberculosis is a bacterial infection that mostly affects the lungs and is completely treatable when the full course of medicines is taken. A cough lasting more than two weeks, fever, weight loss or night sweats should be tested for TB, which is available free in India.
7 min read ConditionsType 2 Diabetes: Symptoms, Causes, Tests and Treatment
Type 2 diabetes is a long-term condition where blood sugar stays high because the body does not use insulin well. With regular tests, the right medicines from your doctor and daily habits, most people live full, active lives and avoid complications.
7 min read ConditionsTyphoid Fever: Causes, Tests, Treatment and Prevention
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread through contaminated food and water, causing a fever that rises over days. It needs proper testing and a full course of antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, while safe water and vaccination help prevent it.
6 min read ConditionsUrinary Tract Infection (UTI): Symptoms, Tests and Treatment
A urinary tract infection is a common bacterial infection, especially in women, causing burning and frequent urination. It is easily treated with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor, but fever, back pain or infection in pregnancy needs prompt care.
6 min read ConditionsVertigo: Causes of Spinning Dizziness and How It Is Treated
Vertigo is a spinning sensation usually caused by inner ear problems such as BPPV, and many cases can be treated with simple head movements done by a doctor. Vertigo with weakness, slurred speech or double vision may be a stroke and needs emergency care.
6 min read ConditionsVitamin B12 Deficiency: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment
Vitamin B12 deficiency is common in India, especially in vegetarians, older adults and people on certain medicines. It can cause anaemia and nerve damage, but it is easy to test for and treat when found early.
6 min read ConditionsVitamin D Deficiency: Symptoms, Causes, Test and Treatment
Vitamin D deficiency is common in India even with plenty of sunlight, and it weakens bones and muscles. A blood test confirms it, and treatment with supplements chosen by a doctor, sensible sun exposure and diet corrects it safely.
6 min read ConditionsWorm Infections in Children: Signs, Deworming and Prevention
Intestinal worm infections are common in children and can affect growth, nutrition and learning. Regular deworming as advised by a doctor or the national programme, along with handwashing, clean toilets and footwear, keeps them in check.
6 min readMedicines
Amlodipine: Uses for High BP, Side Effects and Safety
Amlodipine is a widely used, once-daily blood pressure medicine that relaxes blood vessels and also helps prevent angina chest pain. Ankle swelling is its most common side effect, and like all BP medicines it should be taken only on a doctor's prescription and never stopped on your own.
5 min read MedicinesAmoxicillin: Uses, Side Effects, Allergy and Safety Tips
Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic used for many bacterial infections of the ear, throat, chest, teeth and urinary tract. It does not work on viral colds or flu, must be taken only on a doctor's prescription, and must be avoided by anyone with a penicillin allergy.
6 min read MedicinesAntacids: Uses for Acidity, Side Effects and Safety Tips
Antacids neutralise stomach acid and give quick, short relief from occasional heartburn and indigestion. They are meant for occasional use, can interfere with other medicines, and frequent need for them is a reason to see a doctor.
5 min read MedicinesAntibiotic Resistance and Self-Medication: Why It Matters
Antibiotics work only against bacteria, and using them without a doctor's advice helps germs become resistant. Take antibiotics only on a doctor's prescription and exactly as advised.
6 min read MedicinesAntidepressants (SSRIs): How They Work and What to Expect
SSRIs are widely used antidepressants that help many people with depression and anxiety, but they take a few weeks to work. They should be taken only on a doctor's prescription and never started or stopped on your own.
7 min read MedicinesAntifungal Creams: How to Use Them Safely for Skin Fungus
Antifungal creams treat common skin fungus such as ringworm, but they work only when used correctly and for long enough. Avoid cream mixtures containing steroids unless a doctor specifically prescribes them.
6 min read MedicinesAspirin: Uses for Heart Health, Side Effects and Risks
Aspirin is an old painkiller that today is mainly used, on a doctor's advice, to prevent blood clots in people with heart disease or after a stroke. It raises the risk of bleeding, must never be given to children for fever, and should not be started or stopped on your own for heart protection.
6 min read MedicinesAtorvastatin and Statins: Cholesterol Medicine Guide
Atorvastatin and other statins lower LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Most people take them without problems; muscle aches are the best-known side effect, and they should be taken only on a doctor's prescription and not stopped on your own.
6 min read MedicinesAzithromycin: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions and Tips
Azithromycin is a macrolide antibiotic used for certain chest, throat, ear, skin and sexually transmitted infections and for typhoid in some cases. It is useless against viral illnesses, can affect heart rhythm in some people, and must be taken only on a doctor's prescription.
6 min read MedicinesCetirizine and Levocetirizine: Allergy Medicine Guide
Cetirizine and levocetirizine are common antihistamines that relieve allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes and hives. They are generally safe but can cause drowsiness, so be careful with driving, alcohol and kidney disease.
5 min read MedicinesDiclofenac: Uses, Side Effects, Risks and Safety Tips
Diclofenac is a strong anti-inflammatory painkiller used for pain with swelling, such as arthritis, back pain and injuries. It works well but carries risks for the stomach, kidneys and heart, so it should be used for the shortest time and only as advised.
6 min read MedicinesDomperidone and Ondansetron: Anti-Nausea Medicine Guide
Domperidone and ondansetron are widely used medicines for nausea and vomiting, but they work in different ways and both can affect heart rhythm in some people. They should be used for short periods on a doctor's or pharmacist's advice, while keeping up fluids to prevent dehydration.
6 min read MedicinesGlimepiride and Sulfonylureas: Diabetes Medicine Guide
Glimepiride and other sulfonylureas lower blood sugar by making the pancreas release more insulin. They work well and are widely used, but their main risk is low blood sugar, so regular meals, sugar checks and knowing how to treat a low are essential.
6 min read MedicinesHow to Use an Inhaler Correctly: Step-by-Step Guide
Inhalers deliver medicine straight to the lungs, but only good technique gets it there. Learn the right steps for your device, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to check your technique regularly.
7 min read MedicinesHow to Use Eye Drops Correctly: Tips, Hygiene and Safety
Eye drops work only when the drop actually stays in the eye and the bottle stays clean. Use the correct technique, never share bottles, and use steroid or antibiotic drops only on a doctor's prescription.
6 min read MedicinesIbuprofen: Uses, Side Effects and Who Should Avoid It
Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory painkiller that helps with pain, fever and swelling. It should be used for the shortest time needed and avoided in suspected dengue, stomach ulcers, kidney disease and late pregnancy.
6 min read MedicinesInsulin Basics: Types, Side Effects and Safe Use Tips
Insulin is a life-saving hormone treatment for type 1 diabetes and for many people with type 2 diabetes or diabetes in pregnancy. Used correctly with sugar monitoring, it is safe and effective; the main risk is low blood sugar, and storage and injection technique matter.
7 min read MedicinesIron Supplements: Who Needs Them and How to Take Them Well
Iron supplements treat and prevent iron-deficiency anaemia, which is common in Indian women and children. Get tested first and take iron as your doctor advises, because too much iron can be harmful.
6 min read MedicinesLevothyroxine for Hypothyroidism: Uses and Safety Tips
Levothyroxine is a man-made form of thyroid hormone that replaces what an underactive thyroid cannot make. Taking it the same way every day, on an empty stomach and away from certain foods and medicines, and checking TSH as advised keeps levels right.
6 min read MedicinesLoperamide for Diarrhoea: Uses, Side Effects and Safety
Loperamide reduces the number of loose motions by slowing the gut, and can help adults with short bouts of watery diarrhoea. It must not be used for bloody diarrhoea, high fever or in young children, and it never replaces ORS for preventing dehydration.
5 min read MedicinesMetformin: Uses in Diabetes, Side Effects and Safety
Metformin is the most common first medicine for type 2 diabetes, lowering blood sugar without usually causing weight gain or low sugar on its own. It must be taken only on a doctor's prescription, and kidney function needs regular checks.
6 min read MedicinesMontelukast: Uses in Asthma and Allergy, Side Effects
Montelukast is a prescription tablet that helps prevent asthma symptoms and allergic rhinitis by blocking chemicals called leukotrienes. It is not a rescue medicine for sudden breathlessness, and families should watch for mood or behaviour changes while it is being used.
5 min read MedicinesORS (Oral Rehydration Salts): Uses, Mixing and Safety
Oral rehydration salts are a simple, life-saving mix of salts and sugar that replaces fluids lost through diarrhoea, vomiting and heat. Mixing the packet exactly as printed matters, and warning signs of severe dehydration need hospital care.
5 min read MedicinesPantoprazole and Omeprazole: Uses, Side Effects, Tips
Pantoprazole and omeprazole are proton pump inhibitors that strongly reduce stomach acid and help heal ulcers and reflux. They work well, but long-term use should be reviewed by a doctor because it can affect nutrient levels, infections and bone health.
6 min read MedicinesParacetamol: Uses, Side Effects and Safety Tips
Paracetamol is one of the safest and most widely used medicines for fever and mild to moderate pain when taken as directed. The main danger is taking too much, often by accident from combination products, which can seriously damage the liver.
5 min read MedicinesSleeping Pills: Risks, Dependence and Safer Ways to Sleep
Sleeping pills can help for a short time in specific situations, but they carry real risks including dependence, falls and daytime drowsiness. Use them only on a doctor's prescription and focus on treating the cause of poor sleep.
7 min read MedicinesTelmisartan and ARBs: BP Medicine Uses and Side Effects
Telmisartan and other angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) lower blood pressure and help protect the kidneys and heart, especially in diabetes. They must not be used in pregnancy, need periodic kidney and potassium checks, and should only be taken on a doctor's prescription.
6 min read MedicinesVitamin D3 and Calcium Supplements: A Practical Guide
Vitamin D and calcium work together to keep bones strong, and many Indians have low vitamin D despite plenty of sunshine. Supplements help when needed, but more is not better, so take them as advised after testing.
6 min readLab tests
CBC Test Report Explained: What Your Blood Count Means
A complete blood count checks your red cells, white cells and platelets and is one of the most common blood tests. A single value outside the range is not a diagnosis, so always review the full report with your doctor.
7 min read Lab testsFasting Before Blood Tests: What You Can and Cannot Do
Some blood tests, such as fasting blood sugar and many lipid profiles, need you to avoid food for several hours beforehand, while many others do not. Follow your lab's instructions, drink plain water, and check with your doctor about medicines.
6 min read Lab testsHbA1c Test Explained: Your Three-Month Sugar Average
HbA1c shows your average blood sugar over roughly the last two to three months, and it does not need fasting. It is used to detect diabetes and prediabetes and to check how well diabetes is controlled.
6 min read Lab testsLipid Profile Report Explained: Cholesterol Numbers Made Simple
A lipid profile measures the fats in your blood that affect heart and stroke risk. Your doctor reads the numbers together with your overall risk, so targets differ from person to person.
7 min read Lab testsThyroid Test Report Explained: TSH, T3 and T4 Made Simple
Thyroid tests show whether your thyroid gland is making too little or too much hormone, with TSH usually the first and most useful value. Results must be read together with symptoms, pregnancy status and medicines.
7 min readHealth guides
Common Drug Interactions Everyone Should Know About
Some medicines change how others work, and foods, alcohol and herbal products can interfere too. Keep an up-to-date medicine list and check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding anything new.
7 min read Health guidesGeneric vs Branded Medicines: Are Generics Just as Good?
A generic medicine contains the same active ingredient as the branded version and is meant to work the same way, usually at a lower price. Discuss any switch with your doctor or pharmacist, especially for medicines that need careful control.
6 min read Health guidesGiving Medicines to Children Safely: A Parent's Guide
Children are not small adults, and medicine mistakes in children can be serious. Use only medicines advised for your child, measure carefully with the right device, and ask a doctor or pharmacist when unsure.
7 min read Health guidesHome First Aid Kit Checklist: What Every Family Needs
A well-stocked first aid kit helps you handle small injuries and illnesses quickly and safely at home. Keep it simple, stored in one place, checked regularly, and know when a problem needs a doctor instead.
6 min read Health guidesHow to Read a Doctor's Prescription: A Simple Guide
A prescription tells you which medicine to take, how, when and for how long, but abbreviations and handwriting can confuse. Always check that you understand it before leaving the clinic or pharmacy.
6 min read Health guidesMedicines in Pregnancy: What Is Safe and What to Avoid
Many medicines can be used safely in pregnancy, but some can harm the developing baby, so every medicine should be checked with a doctor first. Never stop a regular medicine on your own when you find out you are pregnant.
7 min read Health guidesStoring and Disposing of Medicines Safely at Home
Heat, moisture and sunlight can damage medicines, and poor storage puts children at risk. Store medicines as the label says, check expiry dates regularly, and dispose of unwanted medicines safely.
6 min readThis article is general health information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or combine medicines on your own — always follow your doctor's prescription and ask your pharmacist if unsure.
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