Health Conditions
Feel Well
Welcome to Feel Well, an empathetic, trustworthy place to get practical, conversational advice about health conditions. Our content is grounded in science: Authoritative medical experts, who have a deep well of knowledge of the topic at hand, weigh in on every story. As an added layer of expertise, our Medical Advisory Board, a dedicated team of health care professionals, also reviews content for accuracy. Whenever possible, we elevate the voices of real people living with health conditions. Whether you have migraine, psoriasis, heart failure, eczema, diabetes, or any other health condition, you can rely on SELF for positive, inclusive, authoritative, and genuinely helpful tips.
What Does Competing With COVID Do to an Athlete’s Body?
Pushing through to win a medal may feel worth it in the moment. But there are real risks.
By Julie StewartMedically reviewed by Pritish Tosh, MD
3 Ways to Unclog a Miserably Stuffy Nose
If allergies, a cold, or something else has you blocked, don’t just try to blow through it.
By Alexis BergerMedically reviewed by Aaron N. Pearlman, MD
Here’s How the Flu Can Lead to Serious Heart Problems
If you have certain risk factors, you might want to be extra careful about this virus.
By Lauren Del TurcoMedically reviewed by Kevin S. Shah, MD
Here’s Why We Don’t Say Someone ‘Has a Migraine’
Language matters when it comes to chronic conditions.
By Alyssa SparacinoMedically reviewed by Jessica Ailani, MD
What You Really Need to Know About the RSV Vaccine for Fall 2024
If you’re pregnant, have a baby, or are 60+, you should be paying attention to this virus.
By Ashley AbramsonMedically reviewed by Payal K. Patel, MD
Condition Spotlight
RSV
This virus sometimes seems like a cold, but it can get bad—fast—for a lot of people.Cold and Flu
Protect yourself from these common respiratory viruses.COVID-19
Here’s what we’ve learned about SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus.Long COVID
These post-viral symptoms are still a puzzle, but we know more about the pieces.Migraine
Migraine pain can include more than just a throbbing headache.
A-Z CONDITION FINDER
MEDICAL ADVISORY BOARD
Infectious Diseases
Payal K. Patel, MD
Infectious Diseases
Pritish Tosh, MD
Eye Health
Anne Barmettler, MD
Mental Health
David Klemanski, PsyD, MPH
A Doctor Told Me the Whooshing in My Ear Would Just Go Away. I Actually Had a Brain Tumor
“I was told to use Flonase.”
By Erica Sloan
The Common Virus Every Parent Should Know
As a new parent, there are so many things to worry about, especially when a child gets sick. For young children, a common virus like RSV can unexpectedly and quickly escalate from a runny nose to hospitalization. Watch as SELF profiles two women who share how this virus impacted a little one they love.
How to Prevent UTIs If You’re Stuck in a Constant Cycle of Infection
Yes, you *can* wrest your freedom back from the tight clench of your urethra.
By Korin Miller and Erica Sloan
Here’s When to Be Concerned About a Headache, According to Doctors
We asked experts to share the key signs that head pain may be something more serious.
By Korin Miller
It’s Not too Late to Get the HPV Vaccine as an Adult
A decrease in cervical precancer rates shows just how effective it is.
By Emilia Benton
Estrogen Isn’t Just a Reproductive Hormone—It’s Critical for Brain Health Too
Everything from your memory to your mood can change alongside your hormones.
By Cassie Shortsleeve
11 Realistic Meditation Tips for People With ADHD
Step one: Find your bare minimum.
By Carolyn L. Todd
How to Spot Measles Symptoms in Adults as Outbreaks Spread in the US
Doctors break down the key warning signs, including the signature rash.
By Erica Sloan
SELF Daily
Make your inbox healthier and happier with the latest SELF stories, delivered fresh daily.
I Have Ulcerative Colitis and Used to Go to the Bathroom 20 Times a Day
“I’ve pooped my pants in public.”
By Theresa TamkinsMedically reviewed by Ugo Iroku, MD, MHS
How to Stop a Runny Nose ASAP, According to Doctors
Put an end to the constant drip with these at-home remedies and OTC meds.
By Katie Bowles and Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.
Meet The New Drugs That Can Slow Down Early Alzheimer’s
They’re not a cure, but they can delay the progression of the disease.
By Amy NortonMedically reviewed by Jessica Ailani, MD
Do I Need a Measles Booster as an Adult?
Here’s how to make sure you’re fully protected against the virus.
By Korin Miller and Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T.
What to Do If Someone With Alzheimer’s Says They Want to “Go Home” When They’re Already There
For starters, don’t try to correct them.
By Theresa TamkinsMedically reviewed by Jessica Ailani, MD
Yes, Breast Cancer Can Hurt—Here’s Why Doctors Want to Put This Myth to Rest
Plus, how to know if you should see someone about your pain.
By Korin Miller
Axial Spondyloarthritis Can Increase Your Risk of Spinal Fractures
Simple tweaks to everyday habits can help protect your bones.
By Sarah Klein, CPTMedically reviewed by Petros Efthimiou, MD
Is Your Nasty Cold Actually Whooping Cough? Here’s How to Tell
Pertussis is making a resurgence—just when we thought cold-and-flu season couldn’t get any worse.
By Erica SloanMedically reviewed by Payal K. Patel, MD
7 Alzheimer’s Caregivers Give Advice for Keeping Your Loved One Active
Customizing your approach based on their interests can make all the difference.
By Korin MillerMedically reviewed by Jessica Ailani, MD
Yes, Younger Adults Can Get Shingles. Here’s What You Need to Know
Anyone who’s had chickenpox is at risk of this viral infection—even if you’re in your 30s.
By Brittany RisherMedically reviewed by Fatima Fahs, MD
Health
How to Know If Bleeding During or After Sex Is Normal—and When to Call Your Doctor
Read this before you freak out.
By Amy Marturana Winderl, C.P.T. and Julia RiesMedically reviewed by Mary Jane Minkin, MD
Make No Mistake, RFK Jr.—Mifepristone, the Abortion Pill, Has Been Studied and Is Safe
Untrue claims about safety issues with the drug resurfaced yet again during RFK Jr.’s confirmation hearing.
By Korin Miller and Erica Sloan
9 Caregivers Share 14 Tips for Looking After Someone With Alzheimer's
“Build a web of support for yourself and your loved one.”
By Korin MillerMedically reviewed by Jessica Ailani, MD
Cancer Rates Are Rising in Young Women. Here’s How to Lower Your Risk
Experts break down the five lifestyle tactics with the strongest evidence.
By Erica Sloan
8 Ways to Prevent Major Joint Pain as You Age
A little TLC in early adulthood can keep your hardworking hips and knees pain-free through the decades.
By Erica Sweeney
How to Provide Quality Care for Someone You Love With Alzheimer’s
Alzheimer’s care is not one-size-fits-all.
By Jacqueline Andriakos and Erica SloanMedically reviewed by Lindsey Ulin, MD
8 Important Ways to Take Care of Yourself When Caring for Someone With Alzheimer’s
Your health is important too.
By Korin Miller and Erica SloanMedically reviewed by Jessica Stern, PhD
Sundown Syndrome Is Why People With Alzheimer's Get More Confused at Night
Brain damage caused by dementia can lead to anxiety, fear, and irritability, especially in the evening. This is how caregivers can help.
By Cathy HabasMedically reviewed by Jessica Ailani, MD
No, Your 30s Aren’t Too Young to Think About Stroke Prevention—Especially as a Woman
Strokes can (and do) happen at any age.
By Sarah Klein, CPTReviewed by Annabelle Santos Volgman, MD