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Is it necessary to reduce a fever with ice packs or cold baths?

Cold baths and ice packs may feel instinctive when a fever hits, but most cases call for a different approach.

What could cause a high lymphocyte count?

An elevated lymphocyte count usually indicates a simple viral illness. Less often, it could indicate a blood cancer. How the number is calculated shapes what it may mean.

How long can athlete's foot fungus linger in shoes?

Warm, damp shoes can harbor fungus well after a skin infection clears. Fresh socks, antifungal powder, rotation, and retiring old shoes are all important.

Video: What you should know about germs

Your immune system constantly defends you from harmful germs like bacteria and viruses, but your body also hosts trillions of helpful microbes-your microbiome-that live on your skin, in your gut, and elsewhere. These "good" germs help digest food, make vitamins, protect you from harmful invaders, and help regulate inflammation.

What to do about sinusitis

Sinusitis occurs when blocked sinuses cannot drain and the backed-up mucus gets infected. The simplest and often most effective treatment is daily nasal irrigation. It can also help to drink a lot of water, inhale steam, and sleep with the head elevated.

Is mono a kids' virus only?

The Epstein-Barr virus that causes mononucleosis (mono) usually infects people during their childhood or the teenage years. The virus stays with people for life.

Can pernicious anemia be treated with vitamin B12 pills instead of injections?

Monthly vitamin B12 shots for pernicious anemia can be a hassle. Explore whether high‑dose vitamin B12 pills or other non‑injection treatments might be an option.

What is oral thrush and why do I keep getting it?

Recurring white patches or odd tastes in the mouth can signal yeast infection known as thrush. Yeast overgrowth may be tied to dentures, antibiotics, or immune problems.

How does a cold virus spread from person to person?

Cold germs can leap from one person to the next in more ways than you might think. Learn the everyday habits that increase spread.

Could ongoing thrush be responsible for my chronic cough?

Mouth yeast infections sometimes extend beyond the tongue. But could thrush be responsible for throat irritation, swallowing trouble, and a stubborn cough?

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