Author: Ken Davis
COPD Exacerbations: Common Triggers, Warning Signs, and What to Do in an Emergency
COPD exacerbations are sudden, dangerous flare-ups that worsen breathing, increase infection risk, and cause lasting lung damage. Learn the key triggers, warning signs, and emergency steps to protect your lungs and avoid hospitalization.
Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms (DRESS): Symptoms, Causes, and What to Do
DRESS syndrome is a rare but life-threatening drug reaction causing fever, rash, organ damage, and high eosinophil levels. Learn the warning signs, common triggers like allopurinol, and why early treatment saves lives.
How to Check for Drug Interactions at Home Safely
Learn how to safely check for dangerous drug interactions at home using trusted free tools. Avoid ER visits by spotting conflicts between prescriptions, OTC meds, and supplements before they cause harm.
Intranasal Corticosteroids vs Antihistamines: Which Works Better and When to Use Them
Intranasal corticosteroids are more effective than antihistamines for treating allergic rhinitis, even when used only as needed. Learn when to choose each option and how to use them right.
Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy Risk from Immunosuppressants: What You Need to Know
PML is a rare but deadly brain infection linked to immunosuppressants like natalizumab. Learn the real risks, who’s most vulnerable, how to spot early signs, and what’s new in 2025 for prevention and treatment.
HBV Reactivation: How Biologics and Chemotherapy Trigger Liver Danger - and How to Stop It
HBV reactivation can cause liver failure during cancer or autoimmune treatment - but it’s almost always preventable with simple screening and antiviral drugs. Learn who’s at risk and how to stop it before it starts.
Liver Function Tests Explained: ALT, AST, Bilirubin, and What They Really Mean
Understand what ALT, AST, and bilirubin really mean in liver function tests. Learn patterns that signal real damage vs. harmless spikes - and what to do next.
Ringworm and Tinea: Understanding Fungal Skin Infections and How Antifungal Creams Work
Ringworm is a common fungal skin infection caused by dermatophytes, not worms. Learn how antifungal creams like terbinafine and clotrimazole work, what causes outbreaks, how to prevent recurrence, and when to see a doctor.
Herbal Supplements and Drug Interactions: What You Need to Know for Safety
Herbal supplements can dangerously interact with prescription medications, reducing effectiveness or causing toxic buildup. St. John's wort, ginkgo, and danshen are among the highest-risk herbs. Most users don't tell their doctors-putting their health at risk.
When to Use OTC vs. Prescription Medications for Common Conditions
Learn when to choose OTC medications over prescription drugs for common issues like headaches, allergies, and heartburn. Understand safety, cost, and when to see a doctor.
Lot Numbers and Serial Codes: How Track-and-Trace Stops Counterfeit Drugs
Lot numbers and serial codes are the backbone of track-and-trace systems that prevent counterfeit drugs from reaching patients. Learn how they work, why they’re required by law, and what you can do to stay safe.
Penicillin Allergy Testing: How to Stop Unnecessary Avoidance and Reduce Side Effects
Most people labeled with penicillin allergy aren’t truly allergic. Testing can safely remove this label, reduce risky antibiotic use, lower costs, and prevent deadly infections like C. difficile.
