Medical tests Archive

Managing emphysema involves more than an occasional lung test. Learn how breathing studies, oxygen checks, and symptoms can be used to track your lung health.

Although rare, emojis are now beginning to appear in electronic medical records sent to patients. People who are unsure about the meaning of any such messages should ask for clarification.

Television portrayals of hands-only cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) aren't always accurate, according to a 2026 analysis. Inaccurate depictions involved the age of CPR recipients, how CPR was done and the location of where it was performed.

For people with high blood pressure, practicing slow, deep breathing for 15 minutes a day can potentially lower blood pressure. Helpful techniques include 4-7-8 breathing, box breathing, and belly breathing. Devices to guide breathing exercises may also be useful.

Motion sickness is tricky to treat. Gadgets such as wristbands and special glasses may help, but their reported benefits may be due to the placebo effect. Several drugs, including a new one that curbs vomiting, are available.

Edema is swelling caused by fluid trapped in body tissues. It can occur in anyone, but it’s more common in older adults. A variety of factors contribute to mild edema, including weakened valves in veins, gravity, inactivity, arthritis, and certain medications.

Elevated levels of aldosterone (a hormone that regulates water, sodium, and potassium in the body) is an underrecognized and undertreated contributor to high blood pressure.

Carotid artery stenosis, which happens when fatty plaque accumulates in neck arteries that supply the brain, leaves people vulnerable to a stroke. Intensive drug therapy may forestall the need for invasive procedures to treat this problem.

Dietary changes can make a big difference for people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Foods to limit or avoid include chocolate, onions, and tomato sauce. Adjusting eating habits-by eating smaller portions, for example-might also help people avoid heartburn and other symptoms.

A variety of everyday habits can stealthily reduce bone health. These include consuming too little calcium, excessive caffeine or soda, inadequate protein, and large amounts of alcohol, as well as smoking, being sedentary, dieting frequently, or taking certain medications.