This resource includes articles, fact sheets, and research summaries from Informed Health Online, the patient-centered health information portal of Germany's national health information website, Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care.

Contents

• Overview: Allergies to animals
  Last Update: August 14, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Allergies to animals: Learn More – Allergen-specific immunotherapy (desensitization) in the treatment of allergies to animals
  Last Update: August 14, 2023.
  • How does immunotherapy work?
  • Which allergies can be treated using allergen-specific immunotherapy?
  • What does the treatment involve?
  • Can allergen-specific immunotherapy help?
  • What are the side effects?
  • How likely are dangerous reactions?
  • Which is most effective: Injections, drops or tablets?
  • Sources
• Allergies to animals: Learn More – Which medications can relieve allergic rhinitis?
  Last Update: August 14, 2023.
  • What medications are available?
  • Do some medications work better than others?
  • Sources
• Overview: Localized prostate cancer
  Last Update: September 16, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Localized prostate cancer: Learn More – Low-risk prostate cancer: Active surveillance or treatment?
  Last Update: September 16, 2022.
  • What are the treatment options for low-risk prostate cancer?
  • What does active surveillance involve?
  • What does “watchful waiting” mean?
  • How do the treatment options compare?
  • What remains unanswered?
  • Are there other treatment options?
  • Making a decision
  • Sources
• Localized prostate cancer: Learn More – PSA tests for prostate cancer screening
  Last Update: September 16, 2022.
  • PSA screening tests
  • What does the PSA level tell us?
  • When is a biopsy done?
  • What problems can arise when a biopsy is taken?
  • How were the advantages and disadvantages of PSA screening tested?
  • The PSA test in numbers: What results can be expected?
  • How great are the benefits and risks of PSA screening?
  • Making a decision
  • Sources
• Localized prostate cancer: Learn More – Prostate cancer: How do doctors estimate how it will progress?
  Last Update: September 16, 2022.
  • How is the tumor stage determined?
  • How is the risk of progression determined?
  • Sources
• Overview: Colorectal cancer
  Last Update: September 13, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Colorectal cancer: Learn More – Stool test: Information for women
  Last Update: September 13, 2021.
  • What does an FOBT involve?
  • How reliable are FOBTs?
  • What kind of results can you expect if you regularly have an FOBT?
  • Can regular FOBTs lower your risk of colorectal cancer?
  • Other types of stool tests
  • Sources
• Colorectal cancer: Learn More – Stool test: Information for men
  Last Update: September 13, 2021.
  • What does an FOBT involve?
  • How reliable are FOBTs?
  • What kind of results can you expect if you regularly have an FOBT?
  • Can regular FOBTs lower your risk of colorectal cancer?
  • Other types of stool tests
  • Sources
• Colorectal cancer: Learn More – Colonoscopy: Information for women
  Last Update: September 13, 2021.
  • What do colonoscopies involve?
  • How can you prepare for a colonoscopy?
  • How reliable are the outcomes of colonoscopies?
  • Do colonoscopies lower the risk of colorectal cancer?
  • What are the possible risks and side effects of a colonoscopy?
  • What happens if polyps are found?
  • Sources
• Colorectal cancer: Learn More – Colonoscopy: Information for men
  Last Update: September 13, 2021.
  • What do colonoscopies involve?
  • How can you prepare for a colonoscopy?
  • How reliable are the outcomes of colonoscopies?
  • Do colonoscopies lower the risk of colorectal cancer?
  • What are the possible risks and side effects of a colonoscopy?
  • What happens if polyps are found?
  • Sources
• Colorectal cancer: Research summaries – Colorectal cancer in the family: Are earlier screening tests worth it?
  Last Update: September 13, 2021.
  • How high is the risk of developing colorectal cancer if a relative has had it?
  • Is it worth doing screening tests sooner in people who are at greater risk?
  • How reliable are the answers to questions about colorectal cancer in relatives?
  • Sources
• Colorectal cancer: Learn More – Signs of colorectal cancer
  Last Update: September 13, 2021.
  • Sources
• Colorectal cancer: Learn More – Preventing colorectal cancer: What role does lifestyle play?
  Last Update: September 13, 2021.
  • Why are studies on the effects of lifestyle often unreliable?
  • Can fiber help prevent colorectal cancer?
  • Can fruits and vegetables prevent colorectal cancer?
  • What about warnings not to eat red or processed meat?
  • Can being overweight increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer?
  • Does exercise prevent colorectal cancer?
  • What role does alcohol play in colorectal cancer?
  • Does smoking increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer?
  • What about dietary supplements?
  • Are there any medications that can prevent colorectal cancer?
  • What can I do in general to prevent colorectal cancer?
  • Sources
• Overview: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
  Last Update: January 28, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Learn More – Do dietary supplements prevent AMD?
  Last Update: January 28, 2021.
  • How are dietary supplements thought to influence AMD?
  • Can dietary supplements prevent AMD?
  • Can dietary supplements slow down the progression of AMD?
  • Just how effective is the AREDS formula?
  • What are the possible side effects of dietary supplements?
  • Sources
• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD): Learn More – What medications are used to treat wet AMD?
  Last Update: January 28, 2021.
  • How is the medication used?
  • How effective are these medications?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • Off-label: Avastin for treating age-related macular degeneration
  • Sources
• Overview: Benign enlarged prostate
  Last Update: July 22, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Benign enlarged prostate: Learn More – Prostate problems: What can I do myself?
  Last Update: July 22, 2022.
  • Can herbal medicines offer relief from the symptoms?
  • Sources
• Benign enlarged prostate: Learn More – What are the pros and cons of surgery?
  Last Update: July 22, 2022.
  • What happens during surgery?
  • What is the most common approach?
  • How effective is TURP and what consequences can it have?
  • Do laser treatments have any advantages over TURP?
  • Which approach is most suitable?
  • What happens after surgery?
  • Sources
• Benign enlarged prostate: Learn More – Which medications can help?
  Last Update: July 22, 2022.
  • Alpha blockers
  • 5-alpha reductase inhibitors
  • How effective is combining drugs?
  • Sources
• Overview: Acne
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Acne: Learn More – Skin care for acne-prone skin
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • What kind of skin care is best?
  • Pimples: Squeeze them or leave them alone?
  • How can pimples be concealed?
  • Shaving: Wet or dry?
  • Can sunlight and artificial UV light help improve acne?
  • Does your diet play a role?
  • How can I cope with acne in everyday life?
  • Sources
• Acne: Learn More – Acne: Do lotions, tablets or light-based treatment help?
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • Do topical medications help?
  • When are oral medications considered?
  • Can light-based treatment reduce acne?
  • What about other treatments?
  • Sources
• Acne: Research summaries – Which birth control pills can help reduce acne?
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • The contraceptive pill and acne
  • Research has only found small differences in the effect on acne
  • Risk of deep vein thrombosis depends on the type of pill
  • Sources
• Overview: Stroke
  Last Update: October 25, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Stroke: Learn More – Depression after a stroke
  Last Update: October 25, 2022.
  • Why can depression occur following a stroke?
  • How can you tell if someone is depressed after a stroke?
  • What effects does depression have?
  • What treatment options are available?
  • Can antidepressants help?
  • What are the possible side effects of antidepressants?
  • How can psychological and psychotherapeutic treatment help?
  • How can you help people with depression?
  • What support do family members need?
  • Sources
• Stroke: Research summaries – After a stroke: Does fitness training improve health and mobility?
  Last Update: October 25, 2022.
  • Research on fitness training after a stroke
  • Fitness training is effective
  • Sources
• Stroke: Learn More – Signs of a stroke
  Last Update: October 25, 2022.
  • What information do the emergency services need?
  • Sources
• Overview: Smoking
  Last Update: September 7, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Effects
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Smoking: Learn More – How effective is nicotine replacement therapy?
  Last Update: September 7, 2022.
  • How can nicotine replacement therapy help?
  • How much does nicotine replacement therapy cost?
  • Nicotine gum
  • Nicotine patch
  • Lozenges
  • Inhalers and sprays
  • How effective is nicotine replacement therapy?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • Can pregnant women use nicotine replacement therapy?
  • Sources
• Smoking: Learn More – Medication for quitting smoking
  Last Update: September 7, 2022.
  • How is bupropion (Zyban) used?
  • How effective is bupropion?
  • What side effects does bupropion have?
  • How is varenicline (EU: Champix, U.S.: Chantix) used?
  • How effective is varenicline?
  • What side effects does varenicline have?
  • Are other medications available?
  • Sources
• Smoking: Learn More – Where can I find support if I’m trying to quit smoking?
  Last Update: September 7, 2022.
  • What can motivate you to quit smoking?
  • How can you prepare to quit smoking?
  • What can you do when you feel the urge to smoke?
  • What types of support are available?
  • Sources
• Smoking: Learn More – E-cigarettes and tobacco heaters: Less harmful than cigarettes?
  Last Update: September 7, 2022.
  • What is in the liquid in e-cigarettes?
  • Are e-cigarettes harmless?
  • Are e-cigarettes less harmful than tobacco?
  • What about tobacco heaters?
  • Sources
• Overview: High blood pressure
  Last Update: May 23, 2019.
  • Introduction
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• High blood pressure: Learn More – When is taking medication for high blood pressure a good idea?
  Last Update: May 23, 2019.
  • What factors increase the risk of heart and circulation problems?
  • What is my risk?
  • Example: Two men – two risk levels
  • How does your individual risk influence your use of medication?
  • What do John and Henry decide?
  • When is medication necessary?
  • Sources
• High blood pressure: Learn More – What medications are used to treat high blood pressure?
  Last Update: May 23, 2019.
  • Which medications can lower blood pressure?
  • Avoiding side effects
  • Which medication is most suitable?
  • What can help you take long-term medication regularly?
  • Sources
• High blood pressure: Learn More – Lowering blood pressure without medication
  Last Update: May 23, 2019.
  • Losing some weight
  • Eating less salt
  • Getting more exercise
  • Quitting smoking
  • Sources
• High blood pressure: Learn More – Tips for reducing your salt intake
  Last Update: May 23, 2019.
  • How much salt is in ...
  • Sources
• Overview: Tick bites
  Last Update: September 19, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • What are ticks?
  • Which dieseases do ticks transmit?
  • Prevention
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Tick bites: Learn More – What are ticks and how can they be removed?
  Last Update: September 19, 2022.
  • How do ticks bite?
  • Removing ticks
  • Should you watch the bite afterwards?
  • Sources
• Tick bites: Learn More – Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE)
  Last Update: September 19, 2022.
  • What are the signs of TBE?
  • What are the signs of a more severe course of disease?
  • Where does TBE occur?
  • When might it be a good idea to have a TBE vaccine?
  • What does the vaccination involve?
  • Sources
• Tick bites: Learn More – Lyme disease
  Last Update: September 19, 2022.
  • How can you tell if you have Lyme disease?
  • What is the risk of getting Lyme disease from a tick bite?
  • Treatment and outlook
  • Does it make sense to take antibiotics "just in case"?
  • Post-Lyme syndrome / “Chronic Lyme disease” – what does it mean?
  • Sources
• Varicose veins: Learn More – What can you do about varicose veins, and when is surgery considered?
  Last Update: January 12, 2023.
  • Do compression stockings (support socks) help?
  • When are surgical procedures considered?
  • How are varicose veins surgically removed?
  • How are varicose veins sealed?
  • What does sclerotherapy involve?
  • Sources
• Overview: Glaucoma
  Last Update: July 14, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Glaucoma: Learn More – Treatment options for glaucoma
  Last Update: July 14, 2023.
  • Which medications are used?
  • What can help you remember to use the eye drops?
  • Can surgery or laser treatment help?
  • Are additional treatments worth it?
  • How effective are eye drops as preventive treatment?
  • How effective is treatment?
  • Sources
• Glaucoma: Learn More – Glaucoma: How can screening tests help?
  Last Update: July 14, 2023.
  • What does glaucoma screening involve?
  • When are the costs of glaucoma screening covered?
  • What are the pros and cons of the screening test?
  • What should you know about glaucoma screening?
  • Not clear whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages
  • Sources
• Overview: Melanoma
  Last Update: July 5, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Melanoma: Learn More – What are the treatment options for melanoma?
  Last Update: July 5, 2022.
  • What happens during surgery?
  • When is radiotherapy considered?
  • What are the medication options?
  • Sources
• Melanoma: Learn More – How effective is skin cancer screening?
  Last Update: July 5, 2022.
  • What does skin cancer screening involve?
  • What are the advantages of skin cancer screening?
  • What are the disadvantages of skin cancer screening?
  • What happens if the doctor suspects you may have skin cancer?
  • Sources
• Melanoma: Learn More – Detecting melanoma
  Last Update: July 5, 2022.
  • Where can melanoma develop and what does it look like?
  • What is the ABCDE rule about and what is the “ugly duckling” rule?
  • Sources
• Melanoma: Learn More – What increases your risk of melanoma?
  Last Update: July 5, 2022.
  • Being sensible in the sun
  • Can tanning beds also cause melanoma?
  • What types of skin are more prone to damage from UV radiation?
  • What do moles have to do with skin cancer?
  • What other causes and risk factors are there?
  • Sources
• Melanoma: Learn More – How can you avoid too much sun?
  Last Update: July 5, 2022.
  • How much protection do shade and clothing provide?
  • How effective is sunscreen?
  • Why do so many people go out in the sun without protection?
  • Sources
• Overview: Heartburn and GERD
  Last Update: December 27, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Heartburn and GERD: Learn More – Treatment options for GERD
  Last Update: December 27, 2021.
  • What can you do to relieve the symptoms?
  • Which medications can help?
  • What side effects does the medication have?
  • When can surgery help?
  • How effective is anti-reflux surgery?
  • What are the disadvantages of anti-reflux surgery?
  • Sources
• Heartburn and GERD: Learn More – How is GERD diagnosed?
  Last Update: December 27, 2021.
  • Test treatment
  • What other kinds of tests are there?
  • Sources
• Overview: Gestational diabetes
  Last Update: October 22, 2020.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Sources
• Gestational diabetes: Learn More – How is gestational diabetes treated?
  Last Update: October 22, 2020.
  • What can you do yourself?
  • How should you change your diet?
  • Do dietary supplements help?
  • Can exercise help too?
  • What role does medication play?
  • Does treatment help to prevent complications?
  • Does the treatment have side effects?
  • What happens after the birth?
  • Sources
• Gestational diabetes: Learn More – How is gestational diabetes diagnosed?
  Last Update: October 22, 2020.
  • How are blood sugar levels measured?
  • What does it involve?
  • What are the benefits of this routine test?
  • What are the possible disadvantages of a routine screening test?
  • How do women feel about the diagnosis?
  • Sources
• Gestational diabetes: Learn More – What can help prevent gestational diabetes?
  Last Update: October 22, 2020.
  • When can changing your diet prevent gestational diabetes?
  • What type of dietary changes can help prevent gestational diabetes?
  • How much weight gain is okay during pregnancy?
  • Can dietary supplements help?
  • Does getting more exercise help?
  • What type of exercise is suitable?
  • Does medication help?
  • Sources
• Overview: Cervical cancer
  Last Update: September 6, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Cervical cancer: Learn More – How is cervical cancer treated?
  Last Update: September 7, 2021.
  • What factors play a role in the treatment decision?
  • What are the treatment options?
  • How does the stage of cervical cancer affect the choice of treatment?
  • Surgery
  • Radiotherapy
  • Treatment with medication
  • Supportive therapy
  • Psychological support and help in everyday life
  • Rehabilitation
  • Follow-up care
  • Treatment and pregnancy
  • Making a decision
  • Sources
• Cervical cancer: Learn More – Abnormal cells on the cervix (dysplasia)
  Last Update: September 7, 2021.
  • What happens if abnormal tissue (dysplasia) is found?
  • How is cervical dysplasia treated?
  • Sources
• Cervical cancer: Learn More – Cervical cancer: Screening and prevention
  Last Update: September 7, 2021.
  • Different types of screening tests
  • How are Pap tests done?
  • What are the possible outcomes of Pap tests?
  • The HPV test
  • What are the advantages of screening?
  • What are the disadvantages of screening?
  • What happens if you don’t go for screening every year? Are there any disadvantages?
  • Does it make sense to pay for extra screening tests yourself?
  • The limitations of screening
  • Sources
• Cervical cancer: Research summaries – Cervical cancer: What are the benefits of HPV tests for cervical screening?
  Last Update: September 7, 2021.
  • Screening tests for cervical cancer
  • Research on the benefits of HPV tests
  • HPV tests could have benefits in cancer screening
  • Sources
• Cervical cancer: Learn More – Human papillomaviruses (HPV)
  Last Update: September 6, 2021.
  • What are the consequences of an HPV infection?
  • What types of viruses increase the cancer risk?
  • How does HPV spread?
  • How can you protect yourself from HPV?
  • How does HPV affect relationships?
  • What happens if the infection persists?
  • What can be done against genital warts?
  • Sources
• Cervical cancer: Learn More – HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer
  Last Update: September 7, 2021.
  • What does the HPV vaccine protect against?
  • Who is the vaccine intended for?
  • What does the vaccination involve?
  • How well do HPV vaccines work in girls and women?
  • How long does the protective effect last?
  • What are the side effects of the vaccine?
  • How well do HPV vaccines work in boys and men?
  • Sources
• Overview: Oral thrush
  Last Update: December 13, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Oral thrush: Learn More – How can you prevent oral thrush?
  Last Update: December 13, 2022.
  • How well do antimycotics prevent fungal infections?
  • How else can oral thrush be prevented?
  • Sources
• Oral thrush: Research summaries – Oral thrush: Prevention during cancer treatment
  Last Update: December 13, 2022.
  • Medications for preventing oral thrush
  • Which antimycotics are effective against oral thrush?
  • Sources
• Overview: Premenstrual syndrome
  Last Update: May 17, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Premenstrual syndrome: Learn More – Treatment for PMS
  Last Update: May 18, 2022.
  • What medications can be used?
  • Can herbal products or dietary supplements help?
  • What other treatments are there?
  • Sources
• Premenstrual syndrome: Learn More – Diary: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
  Last Update: May 17, 2022.
  • What can I enter in the diary?
  • What are the possible symptoms of PMS?
  • Sources
• Overview: Lactose intolerance
  Last Update: January 25, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Lactose intolerance: Learn More – What can lactose-intolerant people eat?
  Last Update: January 25, 2022.
  • How much lactose can lactose-intolerant people have?
  • How can you adapt your diet?
  • Are special products like lactose-free milk a good option?
  • Can lactase products, prebiotics or probiotics help?
  • Can cutting out dairy lead to a calcium deficiency?
  • Sources
• Lactose intolerance: Learn More – Shopping tips for lactose-intolerant people
  Last Update: January 25, 2022.
  • Labeling for packaged food
  • How can you tell whether a product contains lactose?
  • Which products and ingredients aren't a problem?
  • How much lactose is in different foods?
  • What do "lactose-reduced" and "lactose-free" actually mean?
  • What should I keep in mind when buying foods without packaging?
  • Sources
• Lactose intolerance: Learn More – Causes and diagnosis of lactose intolerance
  Last Update: January 25, 2022.
  • How does lactose intolerance develop?
  • What causes the symptoms of lactose intolerance?
  • What else could cause these symptoms?
  • How is lactose intolerance diagnosed?
  • Sources
• Overview: Obstructive sleep apnea
  Last Update: December 19, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Obstructive sleep apnea: Learn More – Treatment of obstructive sleep apnea
  Last Update: December 19, 2022.
  • What can you do to reduce sleep apnea?
  • How can assisted nighttime breathing (CPAP) help?
  • What is positional therapy?
  • When are mouth guards considered?
  • What can be expected from surgery?
  • Can medication help?
  • Sources
• Obstructive sleep apnea: Learn More – CPAP therapy for sleep apnea: Dealing with common problems
  Last Update: December 19, 2022.
  • Tips for dealing with typical problems
  • Try a different machine
  • Sources
• Obstructive sleep apnea: Research summaries – Can special support improve the use of CPAP therapy?
  Last Update: December 19, 2022.
  • What CPAP therapy involves
  • Research on support measures
  • Support measures can lead to increased use of CPAP
  • Sources
• Overview: Depression
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Depression: Learn More – Treatments for depression
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • Does depression always need to be treated?
  • How long does treatment last?
  • What are the psychological treatment options?
  • How do I find a psychotherapist?
  • When are the different medications considered?
  • Are there other treatment options?
  • Sources
• Depression: Research summaries – Can sports and exercise help?
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • Symptoms improved somewhat
  • Some questions remain unanswered
  • Sources
• Depression: Research summaries – Effective treatments for depression and coronary artery disease
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • Heart disease can cause depression
  • Depression increases the risk of heart problems
  • Research on psychological treatments and medications
  • The benefits of psychological treatments
  • Benefits of medication
  • Sources
• Depression: Research summaries – Can St. John’s wort products help?
  Last Update: June 23, 2020.
  • Treating depression with St. John's wort products
  • Research on the effectiveness of St. John's wort
  • Effectiveness in mild to moderate depression
  • Side effects and interactions with other medications
  • Sources
• Depression: Learn More – How effective is psychological treatment?
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • What types of psychological treatments can be used in depression?
  • How effective is psychological treatment?
  • How does psychological treatment compare to antidepressants?
  • Can psychological treatment have side effects?
  • Where can you get psychological treatment?
  • How do I find the right therapist?
  • What can help to start psychological treatment?
  • Sources
• Depression: Learn More – How effective are antidepressants?
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • What antidepressants are available?
  • How do antidepressants work?
  • What does the treatment involve?
  • How effectively do antidepressants relieve the symptoms?
  • How well can antidepressants prevent relapses?
  • What are the side effects of antidepressants?
  • What should you consider when deciding whether or not to take antidepressants?
  • Sources
• Depression: Learn More – Experiences with antidepressants
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • Reservations about antidepressants
  • Starting treatment
  • Positive experiences
  • Negative experiences
  • Problems during treatment
  • What information do you need?
  • Antidepressants: Neither happy pills nor placebos
  • Sources
• Depression: Learn More – Strategies for family and friends
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • Ideas and suggestions
  • Sources
• Depression: Learn More – What is burnout?
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • Exhaustion or burnout?
  • What are the signs and symptoms of burnout?
  • How is burnout diagnosed?
  • What is the difference between burnout and depression?
  • Sources
• Depression: Learn More – Types of depression
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • Unipolar depression
  • Dysthymia
  • Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
  • Postnatal depression
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Sources
• Depression: Learn More – Depression in children and teenagers
  Last Update: June 18, 2020.
  • What are the signs of depression in children and teenagers?
  • What causes depression in young people?
  • How can depression be prevented?
  • How is depression treated in children and teenagers?
  • What else do young people do to cope with problems?
  • Sources
• Overview: Heavy periods
  Last Update: June 17, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Sources
• Heavy periods: Learn More – Treatment options for heavy periods
  Last Update: June 17, 2021.
  • How effective are NSAIDs and medications to reduce blood loss?
  • How can hormones help?
  • What surgical options are there?
  • How do the options compare?
  • How can I find the right solution for me?
  • Sources
• Heavy periods: Research summaries – Surgery for heavy periods: What can help?
  Last Update: June 17, 2021.
  • Removal of fibroids or polyps
  • Removal of the lining of the womb
  • Removal of the womb (hysterectomy)
  • Comparing the two types of surgery
  • What are the risks and disadvantages of these procedures?
  • How satisfied were the women with the outcomes of their surgery?
  • Sources
• Overview: Potty training
  Last Update: January 2, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Do not start too early
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Potty training: Learn More – Helping your child with potty training
  Last Update: January 2, 2023.
  • How will I notice when my child is ready to start using the potty or toilet?
  • How can I help my child to get out of diapers?
  • When will my child manage without diapers?
  • When will my child also manage to stay dry at night?
  • Why doesn't my child want to use the potty or toilet?
  • What do other parents do?
  • Sources
• Overview: Coronary artery disease
  Last Update: February 18, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Coronary artery disease: Learn More – Medication for the long-term treatment of coronary artery disease
  Last Update: February 18, 2022.
  • How do antiplatelets work?
  • How do statins work?
  • How are angina symptoms treated?
  • What can help to manage long-term medication?
  • How can the risk of side effects be lowered?
  • Sources
• Coronary artery disease: Learn More – What can you do for your heart health?
  Last Update: February 18, 2022.
  • Why does smoking damage blood vessels?
  • What's the best diet?
  • What about sports and exercise?
  • The influence of body weight
  • Why aren't dietary supplements needed?
  • Sources
• Coronary artery disease: Learn More – Signs of a heart attack
  Last Update: February 18, 2022.
  • Possible signs of a heart attack
  • Suspected heart attack? Call an ambulance!
  • How can other people help?
  • Known CAD: Temporary symptoms or emergency?
  • Sources
• Coronary artery disease: Learn More – Complications of coronary artery disease
  Last Update: March 22, 2023.
  • Heart failure
  • Irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia)
  • Heart attack
  • Sources
• Overview: Menopause
  Last Update: January 12, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Sources
• Menopause: Learn More – Relieving menopause symptoms on your own
  Last Update: January 12, 2023.
  • What role does diet play?
  • Can sports and exercise relieve menopause symptoms?
  • What about relaxation techniques, yoga and tai chi?
  • What are the “alternative” treatment options?
  • Sources
• Menopause: Learn More – Hormone therapy for menopause
  Last Update: January 12, 2023.
  • Do hormones need to be replaced?
  • Which hormones are used in hormone therapy?
  • What products are available and how are they used?
  • How effective is short-term hormone therapy?
  • What are the short-term side effects of hormone therapy?
  • What risks are associated with long-term hormone therapy?
  • What are the advantages of long-term hormone therapy?
  • What can you do if the symptoms are severe?
  • What happens when you stop taking hormones?
  • Sources
• Menopause: Learn More – Wellbeing during menopause
  Last Update: January 12, 2023.
  • What are hot flashes and what causes them?
  • Does menopause affect sexuality?
  • How do women feel about menopause?
  • How do women cope with their emotions?
  • How do women experience the physical changes?
  • Sources
• Overview: Conjunctivitis
  Last Update: December 8, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Conjunctivitis: Research summaries – Conjunctivitis: Can antibiotics help?
  Last Update: December 8, 2021.
  • Research on antibiotics for treating conjunctivitis
  • Antibiotics can speed up recovery
  • Sources
• Overview: High cholesterol
  Last Update: February 7, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• High cholesterol: Learn More – When is it worth taking statins to lower high cholesterol?
  Last Update: February 9, 2022.
  • What do you need to take into account when deciding whether to take statins?
  • How can you estimate your own risk?
  • How does your individual risk influence the benefits of statins?
  • What are the side effects of statins?
  • Are statins safe?
  • Sources
• High cholesterol: Learn More – What can I do to keep my heart and blood vessels healthy?
  Last Update: February 8, 2022.
  • What foods and drinks make a difference?
  • What role do different types of fat play?
  • Which food products are high in saturated fatty acids and what alternatives are there?
  • Why are people often recommended to follow a "Mediterranean diet"?
  • Why is exercise beneficial?
  • How much exercise is recommended?
  • What role does body weight play?
  • Why is it helpful to give up smoking?
  • Are dietary supplements a good way of decreasing cholesterol?
  • Sources
• High cholesterol: Research summaries – Does reducing the amount of saturated fat in your diet help?
  Last Update: February 10, 2022.
  • Research on dietary fats
  • What the research found
  • Sources
• Overview: Sleep disorders and problems (insomnia)
  Last Update: March 3, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Sleep disorders and problems (insomnia): Learn More – Problems sleeping – Information for teenagers
  Last Update: March 3, 2022.
  • What might disturb your sleep?
  • What can you do to start sleeping better again?
  • What if you argue with your parents about when you should go to bed?
  • What can you do if you don't start sleeping better?
  • Sources
• Sleep disorders and problems (insomnia): Learn More – What can you do if you have trouble sleeping?
  Last Update: March 3, 2022.
  • Which bedtime habits can you change?
  • Can napping during the day help?
  • How do relaxation techniques work?
  • Can physical activity improve your sleep?
  • What about acupuncture and similar remedies?
  • Can home remedies help?
  • Sources
• Overview: Period pain
  Last Update: May 12, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Period pain: Research summaries – Period pains: Can anti-inflammatory drugs help?
  Last Update: May 12, 2023.
  • Painkillers block prostaglandin production
  • NSAIDs can relieve period pain
  • Sources
• Period pain: Learn More – Period pain – Information for girls
  Last Update: May 12, 2023.
  • What happens during your period?
  • Why do some women and girls have period pain and others don’t?
  • What can I do about the pain?
  • Sources
• Overview: Head lice
  Last Update: July 5, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Head lice: Learn More – How can head lice be treated?
  Last Update: July 6, 2021.
  • How do you comb lice out of hair?
  • Insecticide-based treatments
  • Silicone-based treatments (dimethicone or dimeticone)
  • Plant-based treatments and home remedies
  • What are the side effects?
  • What do you need to consider when using head lice treatments?
  • When can children return to school or day care?
  • Sources
• Overview: Age-related farsightedness (presbyopia)
  Last Update: October 4, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Age-related farsightedness (presbyopia): Learn More – How can age-related farsightedness be corrected?
  Last Update: October 4, 2023.
  • What do reading glasses do?
  • Are ready-made glasses enough?
  • How do multifocal glasses work?
  • When are contact lenses an alternative?
  • Can laser treatment reverse presbyopia?
  • Can surgery help in the long term?
  • Sources
• Overview: Type 1 diabetes
  Last Update: December 8, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Type 1 diabetes: Learn More – Forms of insulin delivery
  Last Update: December 8, 2021.
  • Insulin pens and syringes
  • Insulin pumps
  • Pump or pen?
  • Other forms of insulin delivery
  • Sources
• Type 1 diabetes: Learn More – Types of insulin
  Last Update: December 8, 2021.
  • What are the different types of insulin?
  • Comparing human insulin and insulin analogues
  • Sources
• Type 1 diabetes: Learn More – Measuring sugar levels in blood and urine yourself
  Last Update: December 8, 2021.
  • Measuring blood sugar levels yourself
  • Measuring sugar in your urine yourself
  • Measuring blood sugar levels in a laboratory
  • Another way to measure sugar levels
  • Sources
• Type 1 diabetes: Learn More – Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM)
  Created: December 8, 2021.
  • How does CGM work?
  • Can CGM systems be combined with an insulin pump?
  • What is flash glucose monitoring (FGM)?
  • Are conventional blood glucose meters still needed?
  • Advantages of continuous glucose monitoring
  • Are the costs covered by statutory health insurers?
  • Using CGM devices in everyday life
  • Sources
• Type 1 diabetes: Learn More – Types of insulin therapy
  Last Update: December 8, 2021.
  • Conventional insulin therapy
  • Intensive insulin therapy
  • Additional treatment with tablets
  • Patient education programs
  • Sources
• Type 1 diabetes: Learn More – Hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia in type 1 diabetes
  Last Update: December 8, 2021.
  • When is blood sugar considered to be too high or too low?
  • Signs of hyperglycemia
  • What can you do if your blood sugar levels are too high?
  • Signs of hypoglycemia
  • What can you do if your blood sugar levels are too low?
  • Sources
• Overview: Varicoceles
  Last Update: December 9, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Varicoceles: Research summaries – Does varicocele treatment improve fertility in men?
  Last Update: December 9, 2022.
  • Treating varicoceles
  • Research on the influence of surgical procedures on fertility
  • Fertility might improve in some men
  • Sources
• Overview: Outer ear infection
  Last Update: June 13, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Outer ear infection: Research summaries – Which ear drops help in the treatment of outer ear infections?
  Last Update: June 13, 2023.
  • Research on treatments for outer ear infections
  • Evidence of an inflammation-reducing effect
  • Sources
• Outer ear infection: Research summaries – What helps if earwax builds up?
  Last Update: June 13, 2023.
  • What causes plugs of earwax to build up?
  • How can you remove earwax?
  • Which approach is most effective?
  • What are the possible side effects of the various approaches?
  • Sources
• Overview: Alzheimer's disease
  Last Update: March 29, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Alzheimer's disease: Learn More – Non-drug interventions for Alzheimer’s disease
  Last Update: March 29, 2022.
  • Which non-drug interventions are suited for which people?
  • What are cognitive therapies?
  • Can cognitive techniques help with Alzheimer’s disease?
  • What are the effects of physical, mental and social stimulation?
  • How do emotion-oriented treatments work?
  • What can caregiver training for family members offer?
  • Can occupational therapy or psychotherapy help?
  • How important is diet?
  • Can technical support systems like robots be beneficial?
  • Dementia Care Management
  • What other non-drug interventions are there?
  • Sources
• Alzheimer's disease: Learn More – Medications for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease
  Last Update: March 29, 2022.
  • How do cholinesterase inhibitors work?
  • Can memantine help?
  • Is Gingko biloba an alternative?
  • What should be considered when taking other medication?
  • Medications – yes or no?
  • Sources
• Alzheimer's disease: Research summaries – Does memantine help?
  Last Update: March 29, 2022.
  • The effect of memantine
  • Tested in good-quality studies
  • Memantine can somewhat delay the worsening of some abilities
  • Side effects
  • Unanswered questions
  • Sources
• Alzheimer's disease: Research summaries – Do Ginkgo products help?
  Last Update: March 29, 2022.
  • Research on Ginkgo biloba products
  • Ginkgo extract EGb 761 is effective in high doses
  • Side effects and interactions can't be ruled out
  • Sources
• Alzheimer's disease: Research summaries – How effective are cholinesterase inhibitors?
  Last Update: March 29, 2022.
  • Three cholinesterase inhibitors available
  • Good research data on short-term pros and cons
  • Positive effect on mental performance
  • Effectiveness of patches
  • Benefits are unclear regarding many of the other therapy goals
  • Side effects
  • Sources
• Overview: Rheumatoid arthritis
  Last Update: January 11, 2024.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Learn More – Daily living aids for people with rheumatoid arthritis
  Last Update: January 11, 2024.
  • What kinds of daily living aids are there?
  • Who pays for daily living aids?
  • Where can I find out who will cover the costs?
  • Sources
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Learn More – Painkillers for rheumatoid arthritis
  Last Update: January 11, 2024.
  • Which painkillers are effective in relieving joint pain?
  • What are the possible side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs?
  • Who has a higher risk of complications?
  • How can side effects be avoided?
  • Does acetaminophen (paracetamol) help in rheumatoid arthritis?
  • When does it make sense to use steroids?
  • Sources
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Learn More – Fatigue related to rheumatoid arthritis
  Last Update: January 11, 2024.
  • How can fatigue affect your life?
  • How do people cope with fatigue?
  • Can physical activity help to lessen fatigue?
  • What kind of treatment could help against fatigue?
  • Sources
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Research summaries – Can psychological treatment and patient education help in rheumatoid arthritis?
  Last Update: January 11, 2024.
  • Coping strategies
  • Research on psychological support for rheumatoid arthritis
  • Sources
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Learn More – Medication to prevent joint damage
  Last Update: January 11, 2024.
  • What are conventional disease-modifying drugs?
  • How are the medications used?
  • How effective are drugs like methotrexate?
  • What are the possible side effects of conventional disease-modifying drugs?
  • What can you do about the side effects?
  • What should women be aware of if they’re pregnant or trying for a baby?
  • When are biologics an option?
  • When are the new targeted synthetic drugs used?
  • Sources
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Learn More – Exercise and sports for rheumatoid arthritis
  Last Update: January 11, 2024.
  • What types of sports are suitable in rheumatoid arthritis?
  • What does research say about the different types of sports?
  • Can health insurers cover the costs of sports activities?
  • Sources
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Learn More – How is early rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?
  Last Update: January 11, 2024.
  • How are early stages of rheumatoid arthritis diagnosed?
  • Sources
• Rheumatoid arthritis: Learn More – Everyday life with rheumatoid arthritis
  Last Update: January 11, 2024.
  • How can rheumatoid arthritis change your everyday life?
  • What can help you continue to work?
  • Can I still drive if I have rheumatoid arthritis?
  • How does rheumatoid arthritis affect how people see themselves?
  • Rheumatoid arthritis and family planning: What do you need to know?
  • How does rheumatoid arthritis affect relationships and sexuality?
  • Sources
• Overview: Parkinson’s disease
  Last Update: March 13, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Parkinson’s disease: Learn More – Parkinson's: Non-drug treatment
  Last Update: March 13, 2023.
  • How can sports and exercise help?
  • What does occupational therapy involve?
  • What role does speech therapy play?
  • When is psychological support considered?
  • Which research questions are still unanswered?
  • Sources
• Parkinson’s disease: Research summaries – Can exercise help?
  Last Update: March 13, 2023.
  • Sports and exercise in addition to medication
  • Research on the benefits of exercise
  • Improved movement and coordination
  • Which exercises are most suitable?
  • Sources
• Parkinson’s disease: Learn More – Medication for Parkinson's disease
  Last Update: March 13, 2023.
  • How is Parkinson's treated in the early stages?
  • How effective is the treatment in the early stages?
  • What should be considered when taking the medication?
  • Which one first: levodopa or dopamine agonists?
  • Levodopa or dopamine agonists: What does research say?
  • What side effects does the medication have?
  • What if the medications are no longer effective enough?
  • Sources
• Parkinson’s disease: Learn More – Parkinson’s disease: Deep brain stimulation
  Last Update: March 13, 2023.
  • What is deep brain stimulation?
  • Who can have this treatment?
  • What does the surgery involve?
  • How is the pacemaker adjusted?
  • How effective is DBS in Parkinson's disease?
  • What are the side effects of brain stimulation?
  • What happens after the surgery?
  • Sources
• Parkinson’s disease: Learn More – Living with the early stages of Parkinson's disease
  Last Update: March 13, 2023.
  • What first steps are important after the diagnosis?
  • How can I cope with the symptoms?
  • What can be done if speech and facial expressions are affected?
  • Which activities can you do, and for how long?
  • What impact does Parkinson’s have on your job?
  • How long will I be able to drive a car?
  • How does Parkinson’s affect relationships and sexuality?
  • What do you need to know about the medication and side effects?
  • What does a living will (advance health care directive) and a power of attorney involve?
  • Sources
• Overview: Tinnitus
  Last Update: December 14, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Tinnitus: Learn More – Chronic tinnitus: What helps – and what doesn’t?
  Last Update: December 15, 2022.
  • What can help you cope better with tinnitus?
  • When does it make sense to get a hearing aid?
  • Which treatments have not been proven to work?
  • Sources
• Overview: Migraine
  Last Update: August 4, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Migraine: Learn More – Medication for migraines
  Last Update: August 4, 2022.
  • Can painkillers like acetylsalicylic acid or acetaminophen (paracetamol) help?
  • What are the side effects?
  • What drugs relieve nausea?
  • How do migraine medications like triptans and ergotamines work?
  • Which medications are suitable for children and teenagers?
  • What can happen if you take painkillers too often?
  • Sources
• Migraine: Learn More – Migraine diary
  Last Update: August 4, 2022.
• Migraine: Learn More – Migraine prevention in adults
  Last Update: August 4, 2022.
  • What can increase the likelihood of migraines or trigger them?
  • How can migraines be prevented without medication?
  • Can herbal products or dietary supplements prevent migraines?
  • When are medications for the prevention of migraines considered?
  • Which medications are suitable for the prevention of migraines?
  • How effective are the standard medications and what side effects do they have?
  • How can you find the right medication for you?
  • What dose of medication, and for how long?
  • Sources
• Migraine: Learn More – Migraine prevention in children and teenagers
  Last Update: August 4, 2022.
  • What can trigger migraines?
  • How can you identify migraine triggers?
  • What role do tension and stress play?
  • How else can migraines be prevented?
  • How effective are these preventive strategies?
  • When are medications for the prevention of migraines considered?
  • Do medications prevent migraine attacks?
  • Sources
• Overview: Middle ear infection
  Last Update: December 22, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Middle ear infection: Learn More – What can parents do about middle ear infections?
  Last Update: December 22, 2022.
  • When do you need to go to the doctor?
  • Pain relief and fever-reducing treatment
  • Antibiotics
  • Decongestant nose drops or nasal sprays
  • Ear drops
  • Incision in the eardrum (paracentesis)
  • Home remedies and complementary medicine
  • Ear tubes
  • Sources
• Middle ear infection: Research summaries – Will antibiotics help relieve symptoms in babies and toddlers?
  Last Update: December 22, 2022.
  • Research on antibiotics for acute middle ear infections
  • Antibiotics are often ineffective
  • Antibiotics can help in some children
  • Side effects of antibiotics
  • Watchful waiting makes sense in most cases
  • Sources
• Middle ear infection: Learn More – How can middle ear infections in children be prevented?
  Last Update: December 22, 2022.
  • Smoke-free environment
  • Use pacifiers less often
  • Pneumococcal vaccination
  • Flu vaccinations
  • Xylitol gum
  • Zinc
  • Adenoid surgery and the use of ear tubes
  • Sources
• Overview: Tonsillitis
  Last Update: January 2, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Tonsillitis: Learn More – When is tonsil surgery a good idea in adults?
  Last Update: January 2, 2023.
  • What are the benefits of tonsil surgery?
  • What are the reasons not to have surgery?
  • What are the possible complications of tonsil surgery?
  • What happens during tonsil surgery and what are the different approaches?
  • Which is better: Partial or complete surgical removal of the tonsils?
  • How can I reduce the problems after surgery?
  • How can a second medical opinion help?
  • Sources
• Tonsillitis: Learn More – Tonsillitis: Tonsil surgery in children
  Last Update: January 2, 2023.
  • How effective is tonsil surgery?
  • What are the drawbacks of surgery?
  • What are the possible complications of tonsil surgery?
  • What does the surgery involve?
  • What are the different types of surgery?
  • Which is better: Partial or complete surgical removal of the tonsils?
  • How can I reduce the problems after surgery?
  • How can a second medical opinion help?
  • Sources
• Tonsillitis: Research summaries – Do antibiotics make sore throats go away quicker?
  Last Update: January 2, 2023.
  • Effectiveness of treatment with antibiotics
  • Side effects of antibiotics
  • Sources
• Overview: Eczema
  Last Update: February 11, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Eczema: Learn More – Steroids and other topical medications
  Last Update: February 11, 2021.
  • How do the various topical steroids differ?
  • Which topical steroid is most suitable?
  • How are steroids used?
  • The right amount
  • What are the side effects?
  • Avoiding side effects
  • Can steroids be used in pregnancy too?
  • Preventing flare-ups through intermittent use
  • When can pimecrolimus and tacrolimus be used?
  • Do pimecrolimus and tacrolimus have any advantages over steroids?
  • Sources
• Eczema: Learn More – Light therapy, tablets and injections
  Last Update: February 11, 2021.
  • What does light therapy involve?
  • Different types of light therapy
  • Can light therapy help?
  • What are the side effects of light therapy?
  • How can you prevent side effects?
  • When is systemic treatment recommended?
  • Which medications can be used?
  • Other medications
  • Why are steroid tablets only rarely recommended nowadays?
  • Can allergy medications (antihistamines) help in eczema?
  • Sources
• Eczema: Learn More – Skin care for eczema
  Last Update: February 11, 2021.
  • What's the difference between ointments, creams and lotions?
  • Which products are most suitable in different situations?
  • How are skin products applied?
  • Are certain products better than others?
  • What should you be careful about when taking a bath or shower?
  • Is it a good idea to use moisturizing bath additives?
  • Can wet wraps help?
  • Does special clothing help?
  • Sources
• Eczema: Research summaries – Eczema: Can eliminating particular foods help?
  Last Update: February 11, 2021.
  • How are food allergies diagnosed?
  • Research on elimination diets for eczema
  • Elimination diets probably only help in people who have a diagnosed food allergy
  • Sources
• Eczema: Research summaries – Can mothers reduce their child's risk of getting eczema by avoiding certain foods during pregnancy and while breastfeeding?
  Last Update: February 11, 2021.
  • Research on avoiding certain foods
  • Research results and recommendations
  • Sources
• Eczema: Research summaries – Eczema in children: Can prebiotics or probiotics help prevent it?
  Last Update: February 11, 2021.
  • How do probiotics and prebiotics work?
  • Research on probiotics
  • Wold Allergy Organization recommendations on probiotics
  • Research on prebiotics
  • Sources
• Overview: Acute cystitis
  Last Update: February 27, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Acute cystitis: Learn More – Treating acute cystitis
  Last Update: February 27, 2023.
  • How effective are antibiotics?
  • What else can you do if you have cystitis?
  • Sources
• Acute cystitis: Research summaries – How effective are antibiotics in treating acute cystitis?
  Last Update: February 27, 2023.
  • Antibiotics are very effective
  • Can you make do without antibiotics?
  • The various antibiotics are equally effective
  • How long should you take the antibiotics for?
  • Sources
• Acute cystitis: Learn More – Preventing cystitis
  Last Update: February 27, 2023.
  • How can you prevent cystitis in everyday life?
  • Do cranberry products or other herbal products help?
  • Can you take antibiotics to prevent cystitis?
  • When are hormones used?
  • What about vaccines or other treatments?
  • Sources
• Overview: Cataracts
  Last Update: November 22, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Cataracts: Learn More – Cataract surgery
  Last Update: November 22, 2022.
  • Are there alternatives to surgery?
  • When is it the right time for surgery?
  • What else should I consider before surgery?
  • What does the surgery involve?
  • What is the most appropriate type of anesthesia?
  • How effective is surgery?
  • What are the possible complications?
  • How do the various artificial lenses differ?
  • What do you need to pay attention to after the surgery?
  • Sources
• Cataracts: Research summaries – Can vitamin supplements help maintain your vision?
  Last Update: November 22, 2022.
  • Studies on preventing and treating cataracts with dietary supplements
  • Vitamin supplements have no benefit
  • Sources
• Overview: Irritable bowel syndrome
  Last Update: February 27, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Irritable bowel syndrome: Learn More – Irritable bowel syndrome: What helps – and what doesn’t
  Last Update: February 27, 2023.
  • Which treatments have been tested in good-quality studies?
  • What can help?
  • Where is there a lack of good research?
  • Sources
• Overview: Breast cancer
  Last Update: April 21, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Breast cancer: Learn More – Breast cancer: Treating lymphedema
  Last Update: April 21, 2022.
  • What is lymphedema?
  • What causes lymphedema?
  • How does lymphedema progress?
  • How is lymphedema diagnosed?
  • What are the treatment options for lymphedema?
  • Can surgery help?
  • What can you do on your own?
  • How do others cope with lymphedema?
  • Sources
• Breast cancer: Learn More – Breast cancer: How exercise can help
  Last Update: April 21, 2022.
  • What types of sports and exercise are most suitable?
  • How can exercise help during and after treatment?
  • How much exercise is needed for it to be effective?
  • Can exercise have side effects?
  • Exercise and lymphedema
  • Where can I find suitable sports activities?
  • Sources
• Breast cancer: Learn More – The breast cancer screening program in Germany
  Last Update: April 21, 2022.
  • What if you don't want to have a mammogram?
  • What do mammograms involve?
  • What happens if the results are abnormal?
  • What if breast cancer is diagnosed?
  • Breast cancer screening in numbers: What results can be expected?
  • What types of breast cancer are diagnosed?
  • What is overdiagnosis?
  • Regular participation: What are the advantages and disadvantages?
  • In figures: Chances of recovery
  • In figures: the risk of overdiagnosis
  • How high is the exposure to radiation?
  • Are there alternatives to the mammography screening program?
  • The limitations of screening
  • Does breast cancer screening have more benefits or more drawbacks?
  • What happens to your personal data?
  • Sources
• Breast cancer: Learn More – What role does breast density play?
  Last Update: April 21, 2022.
  • How is breast density measured?
  • How are different levels of breast density described?
  • How many women have a high breast density?
  • What does having dense breast tissue mean for women?
  • How high is the risk of breast cancer in women with dense breast tissue?
  • How good is mammography at detecting breast cancer?
  • Should women with high breast density have additional screening examinations?
  • Sources
• Breast cancer: Learn More – Risk factors for breast cancer
  Last Update: April 21, 2022.
  • The influence of age
  • The influence of genes
  • What role do hormones play?
  • What role do your lifestyle and environment play?
  • What does “increased risk” actually mean?
  • How is your personal risk estimated?
  • Sources
• Breast cancer: Learn More – Recurrent non-metastatic breast cancer
  Last Update: April 21, 2022.
  • What is the likelihood of breast cancer returning?
  • How is recurrent breast cancer diagnosed?
  • What can you expect from treatment?
  • What treatment options are available?
  • Considering treatment options
  • What are the effects of treatment?
  • What can you do for your general wellbeing?
  • How can you cope with negative feelings?
  • Talking to family and friends about your illness
  • Where can you get support?
  • What else can I do?
  • Sources
• Overview: Food allergies
  Last Update: August 21, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Food allergies: Learn More – Food allergies: Diagnosis and treatment
  Last Update: August 21, 2023.
  • How are food allergies diagnosed?
  • Which tests aren't suitable for the diagnosis of food allergies?
  • How are food allergies treated?
  • How are anaphylactic reactions treated?
  • Can allergen-specific immunotherapy help?
  • Which foods have to be replaced?
  • How can you tell whether foods have allergy-triggers in them?
  • What can you do if you're exposed to food allergy triggers in your workplace?
  • Sources
• Food allergies: Learn More – Anaphylactic reactions (anaphylaxis)
  Last Update: August 21, 2023.
  • What are the signs of an anaphylactic reaction?
  • What can trigger anaphylaxis?
  • How should anaphylactic reactions be handled?
  • What if no pulse can be felt?
  • How are anaphylactic reactions treated?
  • What do emergency kits have in them?
  • Who can be given an emergency kit?
  • Sources
• Overview: Atrial fibrillation
  Last Update: January 31, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Atrial fibrillation: Learn More – Atrial fibrillation: Preventing strokes
  Last Update: January 31, 2023.
  • How high is your risk of a stroke, and how can you reduce it?
  • How common are side effects?
  • Which anticoagulants are used to treat atrial fibrillation?
  • How do vitamin K antagonists work?
  • What do you need to watch for in direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs)?
  • Comparing vitamin K antagonists with direct oral anticoagulants
  • Is left atrial appendage closure a suitable alternative?
  • Making a decision
  • Sources
• Atrial fibrillation: Learn More – How can an irregular heart rhythm be treated?
  Last Update: March 30, 2023.
  • Rate control or rhythm control?
  • What can help to make a decision?
  • Sources
• Overview: Hepatitis B
  Last Update: March 2, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Hepatitis B: Research summaries – Hepatitis B: What are the pros and cons of screening?
  Last Update: March 2, 2023.
  • Pros and cons of screening not clear
  • Sources
• Hepatitis B: Learn More – Hepatitis B: Should I get vaccinated?
  Last Update: March 2, 2023.
  • What are the possible effects of a hepatitis B infection?
  • Who is the vaccine recommended for?
  • How well is the hepatitis B vaccine tolerated?
  • Sources
• Overview: Using medication
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Routes of administration
  • Long-term use
  • Special areas of use
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Using medication: Learn More – Using antibiotics correctly and preventing resistance
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • What is antibiotic resistance?
  • What causes resistance?
  • Which bacteria are resistant and why are they dangerous?
  • What is being done about antibiotic resistance?
  • What can I do to prevent antibiotic resistance?
  • What's important to consider when taking antibiotics?
  • Sources
• Using medication: Learn More – Medications for children: Getting the dose right
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • How can parents avoid mistakes when giving children medication?
  • Sources
• Using medication: Learn More – The safe use of over-the-counter painkillers
  Last Update: August 23, 2021.
  • Which painkillers are available over the counter?
  • How do NSAIDs work?
  • What is the right dose?
  • What are the side effects and complications?
  • Who has a particularly high risk of complications?
  • When should certain painkillers be avoided?
  • Which symptoms could be signs of complications?
  • How can complications be prevented?
  • What happens if medications interact with each other?
  • Sources
• Using medication: Research summaries – Painkillers: How common are severe side effects of NSAIDs?
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • Risk of cardiovascular disease
  • Risk of gastrointestinal complications
  • Sources
• Using medication: Learn More – Topical medications
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • Pastes, ointments and oils
  • Creams, lotions and foams
  • Gels, powders and tinctures
  • Sprays and patches
  • Sources
• Using medication: Learn More – Injections, suppositories and other dosage forms
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • Injections
  • Infusions
  • Slow-release: Implants and injections
  • Suppositories
  • Drops, ointments and sprays for the eyes, ears and nose
  • Inhaled medication
  • Sources
• Using medication: Learn More – Oral medications
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • Tablets
  • Capsules and chewable capsules
  • Time-release tablets and capsules
  • Powders, drops and oral liquid medications
  • Sources
• Using medication: Learn More – Managing medication for long-term conditions
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • How can information help when taking long-term medication?
  • How can you keep track of your medication?
  • What can help you remember to take the medication?
  • What could help you to use long-term medications safely?
  • Sources
• Using medication: Research summaries – Dietary supplements: Can they also be harmful?
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • Research on the long-term use of antioxidants
  • No proof of benefits – harmful effects can't be ruled out
  • A balanced diet provides enough protection
  • Sources
• Using medication: Learn More – What can help when trying to stop taking sleeping pills and sedatives?
  Created: August 24, 2021.
  • Dependence on sleeping pills
  • Stopping taking sleeping pills and sedatives
  • Tapering avoids withdrawal symptoms and relapses
  • What else can help you to stop taking sleeping pills?
  • Sources
• Overview: Psoriasis
  Last Update: April 27, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Psoriasis: Learn More – Does light therapy (phototherapy) help reduce psoriasis symptoms?
  Last Update: April 27, 2021.
  • What are the different kinds of light therapy?
  • What needs to be considered if you have light therapy?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • Does light therapy increase the risk of skin cancer?
  • How effective are the different types of light therapy?
  • Sources
• Psoriasis: Learn More – Oral medications and injections
  Last Update: April 27, 2021.
  • Which medications can relieve the symptoms?
  • Before and during treatment
  • Methotrexate (MTX)
  • Fumaric acid esters
  • Ciclosporine
  • Apremilast
  • Acitretin
  • Oral steroids (taken by mouth)
  • Biological drugs (biologics)
  • Sources
• Psoriasis: Learn More – Skin care and topical treatments
  Created: April 27, 2021.
  • What does good skin care involve?
  • What do steroids (corticosteroids) do?
  • What other topical medications can be used?
  • Sources
• Psoriasis: Learn More – Relationships, hobbies and everyday life with psoriasis
  Last Update: April 27, 2021.
  • Appearance and wellbeing
  • Relationships and sexuality
  • Dealing with other people's reactions
  • Dealing with emotional stress
  • Sources
• Overview: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  Last Update: June 21, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Learn More – What can help children and teenagers who have ADHD?
  Last Update: June 21, 2022.
  • Diagnosis and consultation
  • Medication
  • What medications are used to treat ADHD?
  • How effective is medication for ADHD?
  • What are the possible side effects of medications for ADHD?
  • What can you do about the side effects?
  • Parent education programs
  • Psychological treatments and psychotherapy
  • Support at school
  • What role does movement play?
  • Other treatments
  • Sources
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Learn More – Treating ADHD in adults
  Last Update: June 21, 2022.
  • How does ADHD medication work?
  • Can medication help adults who have ADHD?
  • When might psychological treatment help?
  • Sources
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Learn More – How is ADHD diagnosed?
  Last Update: June 21, 2022.
  • What is meant by inattentiveness, hyperactivity and impulsiveness?
  • Which criteria are important for the diagnosis?
  • The two sides of the diagnosis
  • Preventing misdiagnosis
  • Increase in ADHD diagnosis
  • Sources
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Learn More – Coping with ADHD in everyday life: Information for parents
  Last Update: June 21, 2022.
  • Routines, clear instructions and rules
  • Setting realistic goals
  • Watching for signs of overstimulation
  • Sports and hobbies
  • Praise is key
  • Pay attention to your own needs and accept help
  • Sources
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Learn More – ADHD in adults
  Last Update: June 21, 2022.
  • What are the signs of ADHD in adults?
  • How is ADHD diagnosed in adults?
  • How do adults with ADHD cope with the disorder?
  • Where can adults with ADHD turn to for help?
  • Who should I tell about my diagnosis?
  • Sources
• Overview: Fever in children
  Last Update: December 9, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Fever in children: Learn More – How can you reduce a child's fever?
  Last Update: December 9, 2022.
  • What are the medication options?
  • Does using both medications have any advantages?
  • Can cooling from the outside help?
  • Sources
• Fever in children: Learn More – Taking a child's temperature
  Last Update: December 9, 2022.
  • How can I tell if my child has a fever?
  • What are the different types of thermometer and how accurate are their readings?
  • Taking a child's temperature rectally
  • Taking the temperature in the mouth
  • Taking the temperature under the arm
  • Ear thermometer
  • Forehead thermometer
  • Sources
• Fever in children: Learn More – What are febrile seizures?
  Last Update: December 9, 2022.
  • What causes febrile seizures?
  • What's the difference between simple and complex febrile seizures?
  • What can you do if a child has a febrile seizure?
  • Can febrile seizures be prevented?
  • Sources
• Fever in children: Learn More – Fever in children: When to see a doctor
  Last Update: December 9, 2022.
  • What other symptoms need fast medical attention?
  • What can you do if the doctor's practice is shut?
  • Sources
• Overview: Influenza
  Last Update: November 22, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Effects
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Influenza: Research summaries – Can oseltamivir (Tamiflu) prevent complications of the flu?
  Last Update: November 22, 2022.
  • Effect and use of oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
  • Research on treatment
  • Research on prevention
  • Sources
• Influenza: Research summaries – How much protection do flu vaccinations offer?
  Last Update: November 22, 2022.
  • How flu vaccinations work
  • It is best to get vaccinated before flu season
  • What does the research on flu vaccinations show?
  • What the authorities recommend
  • What are the side effects of the vaccine?
  • Sources
• Overview: Metastatic breast cancer
  Last Update: January 23, 2024.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Metastatic breast cancer: Learn More – Pain management in metastatic breast cancer
  Last Update: January 23, 2024.
  • How can you describe pain?
  • Which medications can be used?
  • What are the possible side effects of opioids?
  • Can you become dependent on opioids?
  • What can you do yourself?
  • Sources
• Metastatic breast cancer: Learn More – Treatment options and supportive care
  Last Update: January 23, 2024.
  • What are the treatment options?
  • Which treatment is suitable for you?
  • What about the side effects?
  • What is psycho-oncological care?
  • What are disease management programs?
  • What about treatment in a clinical trial?
  • What if you decide not to have cancer treatment?
  • What is palliative care?
  • Sources
• Metastatic breast cancer: Learn More – Diagnostic tests for metastatic breast cancer
  Last Update: January 23, 2024.
  • What happens before the examinations?
  • What examinations are done if it’s thought you might have breast cancer?
  • Possible metastases: What examinations might be done?
  • How are tumors classified?
  • Who can answer questions about the diagnosis?
  • How is the treatment planned?
  • The importance of trust
  • Sources
• Metastatic breast cancer: Learn More – Living with metastatic breast cancer
  Last Update: January 23, 2024.
  • Coping with fear, anger and grief
  • Finding your own way to cope
  • Psychological support
  • Taking good care of yourself
  • Talking about cancer
  • Support, information and advice
  • Sources
• Metastatic breast cancer: Learn More – Information for partners
  Last Update: January 23, 2024.
  • How can you support your partner?
  • What can help you deal with your partner's feelings?
  • How can you manage your fears and worries?
  • How might the disease affect your sex life?
  • What might change in everyday life?
  • Where can you find support?
  • How can you prepare to say goodbye?
  • Sources
• Metastatic breast cancer: Learn More – Saying goodbye
  Last Update: January 23, 2024.
  • What is grief?
  • How can you spend the time left with your loved ones?
  • How can you prepare your children?
  • How else can you prepare?
  • What can you include in a will?
  • How can home care work out?
  • Who provides palliative care at home?
  • How will you be cared for in the hospital or hospice?
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Metastatic breast cancer: Learn More – Practical support, formalities and financial aspects
  Last Update: January 23, 2024.
  • What happens after you leave the hospital or rehabilitation center?
  • What do health insurance and pension funds cover?
  • Occupational rehabilitation or retirement?
  • What can you do with a disability ID card?
  • Where else can you get help?
  • Sources
• Overview: Lazy eye (amblyopia) in children
  Last Update: February 14, 2024.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Lazy eye (amblyopia) in children: Learn More – What are the treatment options for lazy eye (amblyopia)?
  Last Update: February 14, 2024.
  • What are the treatment options?
  • What does the treatment involve?
  • How is lazy eye treated if it is caused by a squint?
  • Are there side effects too?
  • Can amblyopia be treated later on?
  • Can special exercises improve vision even more?
  • How can I help my child?
  • Sources
• Overview: Gallstones
  Last Update: July 18, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Gallstones: Learn More – How can gallstones be treated?
  Last Update: July 18, 2023.
  • Which medications can help?
  • Surgery to remove the gallbladder – yes or no?
  • What does surgery to remove the gallbladder involve?
  • What are the risks of gallbladder surgery?
  • How are stones removed from the bile duct?
  • How do people manage without a gallbladder?
  • Sources
• Gallstones: Learn More – Complications of gallstones
  Last Update: July 18, 2023.
  • Inflammation of the gallbladder
  • How are gallbladder inflammations treated?
  • Acute inflammation of the bile duct
  • Inflammation of the pancreas
  • Gallbladder cancer and bile duct cancer
  • Sources
• Overview: Enlarged hemorrhoids
  Last Update: December 9, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Enlarged hemorrhoids: Learn More – What surgical procedures can be used to treat hemorrhoids?
  Last Update: December 9, 2021.
  • Sclerotherapy (injections)
  • Rubber band ligation (banding)
  • Hemorrhoidectomy (hemorrhoid removal)
  • Stapling
  • Sources
• Enlarged hemorrhoids: Learn More – How can you relieve the symptoms yourself?
  Last Update: December 9, 2021.
  • What role do toilet habits play?
  • How can you prevent constipation?
  • What role does hygiene play?
  • Is bathing helpful or harmful?
  • What creams can be used?
  • Are suppositories an option?
  • Sources
• Overview: Neck pain
  Last Update: December 12, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Neck pain: Learn More – What can you do about non-specific neck pain?
  Last Update: December 12, 2022.
  • What can I do about neck pain myself?
  • Are manual therapies or massages effective?
  • Does physical therapy help?
  • How effective is acupuncture?
  • Can painkillers help?
  • When is it a good idea to use a neck brace?
  • Can making changes at your workplace help?
  • Sources
• Neck pain: Research summaries – Can acupuncture help to relieve chronic neck pain?
  Last Update: December 12, 2022.
  • Problems with studies on acupuncture
  • The latest research
  • Sources
• Neck pain: Research summaries – Do mobilization or manipulation techniques help relieve neck pain?
  Last Update: December 12, 2022.
  • Research on mobilization and manipulation for neck pain
  • Mobilization or manipulation of the cervical spine (neck)
  • Mobilization or manipulation of the thoracic spine (upper back)
  • Side effects
  • Sources
• Overview: Slipped disc
  Last Update: July 19, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Slipped disc: Learn More – Slipped disc – Non-surgical treatment options
  Last Update: July 19, 2023.
  • Do exercise, relaxation and positioning help?
  • What medications can relieve the symptoms?
  • What do physical therapy and occupational therapy involve?
  • Can traditional Asian medicine approaches provide relief?
  • Do injections near the spine help?
  • When can cognitive behavioral therapy be helpful?
  • Which treatment is best for me?
  • Sources
• Slipped disc: Learn More – Surgery for a slipped disc
  Last Update: July 19, 2023.
  • When is surgery an option?
  • What surgical techniques are used?
  • Can surgery relieve the symptoms?
  • Are other surgical procedures available?
  • How can rehabilitation help following surgery?
  • Sources
• Slipped disc: Research summaries – Can rehabilitation therapy help after surgery for a slipped disc?
  Last Update: July 19, 2023.
  • Research on rehabilitation
  • Rehabilitation can speed up recovery somewhat
  • Sources
• Overview: Low back pain
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Low back pain: Learn More – Medication for the treatment of non-specific back pain
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • Over-the-counter (non-prescription) painkillers
  • Metamizole ("Novalgin")
  • Opioids
  • Muscle relaxants
  • Antidepressants
  • Treatment with injections
  • Sources
• Low back pain: Learn More – Relaxation techniques for back pain
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • How does progressive muscle relaxation work?
  • What does mindfulness training involve?
  • Sources
• Low back pain: Learn More – Multimodal pain management and cognitive behavioral therapy
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • How effective is cognitive behavioral therapy?
  • When are the costs of CBT covered?
  • Multimodal pain management
  • Sources
• Low back pain: Learn More – Passive treatments: Massages, heat and manual therapy
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • Are passive treatments effective for back pain?
  • Acupuncture
  • Electrotherapy
  • Mobilization and manipulation of the spine
  • Massages
  • Osteopathy
  • Other treatments
  • Sources
• Low back pain: Learn More – Why movement is so important for back pain
  Last Update: February 14, 2019.
  • Is it harmful to exercise if you have low back pain?
  • What types of exercise are suitable?
  • What can help you stick to it?
  • Patient education classes
  • Sources
• Low back pain: Research summaries – Can exercise prevent recurrent low back pain from coming back?
  Last Update: December 6, 2022.
  • What did the researchers find?
  • Staying active in the long term
  • Sources
• Low back pain: Learn More – Living with chronic back pain
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • Understanding the pain better
  • Finding coping strategies
  • Sources
• Low back pain: Learn More – Low back pain: Signs of serious problems
  Last Update: December 5, 2022.
  • Sources
• Overview: Rosacea
  Last Update: September 19, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Rosacea: Learn More – What are the treatment options for rosacea?
  Last Update: September 19, 2023.
  • What is effective for treating red skin and small visible blood vessels?
  • What are the treatment options for red and yellow spots?
  • How can changes affecting your nose (rhinophyma) be treated?
  • What can you do if your eyes are affected?
  • Sources
• Rosacea: Learn More – Rosacea diary
  Last Update: September 19, 2023.
  • Sources
• Overview: Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism)
  Last Update: June 15, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism): Learn More – What are the treatment options for an overactive thyroid?
  Last Update: June 15, 2021.
  • When are the different treatments considered?
  • What are the medication options?
  • Surgery
  • Radioiodine therapy
  • Treatment can lead to an underactive thyroid
  • Sources
• Overview: Sinusitis
  Last Update: February 23, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Sinusitis: Learn More – Treating acute sinusitis
  Last Update: February 23, 2021.
  • Steroids
  • Painkillers and decongestant nasal sprays
  • Saline (salt water) solutions and inhalations
  • Antibiotics
  • Sources
• Sinusitis: Learn More – Treating chronic sinusitis
  Last Update: February 23, 2021.
  • What medications are available?
  • Can surgery help?
  • Sources
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Research summaries – Leg in a cast: When does it make sense to use injections for blood clot prevention?
  Last Update: May 20, 2021.
  • Ways to prevent thrombosis
  • Research on preventive treatment with medication
  • Possible side effects of heparin
  • When are injections for the prevention of blood clots recommended?
  • Sources
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): Research summaries – Is thrombosis prevention necessary on flights?
  Last Update: May 20, 2021.
  • Research on wearing compression stockings on flights
  • What they found
  • When are compression stockings recommended?
  • What else can you do?
  • Sources
• Overview: Pressure ulcers
  Last Update: August 19, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Pressure ulcers: Learn More – Preventing pressure ulcers
  Last Update: August 19, 2022.
  • Which interventions are the most important?
  • How often is repositioning necessary?
  • What role does diet play?
  • What role does skin care play?
  • Can pressure-relieving mattresses prevent pressure ulcers?
  • Are wound dressings suitable for preventing pressure ulcers?
  • What other kinds of aids are available?
  • How can friends and family help?
  • Sources
• Overview: Hay fever
  Last Update: June 19, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Hay fever: Learn More – Which medications can relieve hay fever?
  Last Update: June 19, 2023.
  • What medications are available?
  • Do some medications work better than others?
  • Sources
• Hay fever: Learn More – Allergen-specific immunotherapy (desensitization) in the treatment of hay fever
  Last Update: June 19, 2023.
  • How does immunotherapy work?
  • Which allergies can be treated using allergen-specific immunotherapy?
  • What does the treatment involve?
  • Can allergen-specific immunotherapy help?
  • What are the side effects?
  • How great is the risk of a dangerous extreme allergic reaction?
  • Which is most effective: Injections, drops or tablets?
  • Sources
• Overview: Hernias
  Last Update: December 13, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Hernias: Learn More – How are inguinal (groin) hernias treated in men?
  Last Update: December 13, 2023.
  • What causes inguinal hernias?
  • Is surgery always needed if you have an inguinal hernia?
  • When is surgery considered?
  • What are the side effects of surgery?
  • What are the different types of surgery?
  • Which is better: Mesh or no mesh?
  • Which is better: Open surgery or laparoscopy?
  • Which type of laparoscopic surgery is better?
  • What do I need to know after having surgery?
  • What can you do if the hernia comes back?
  • What questions could help when considering the treatment options?
  • Sources
• Hernias: Learn More – How are incisional hernias treated?
  Last Update: December 13, 2023.
  • How do incisional hernias develop?
  • What can you do to prevent them?
  • What are the treatment options for incisional hernias?
  • Is open surgery or laparoscopic surgery better?
  • What risks are associated with surgery?
  • Do incisional hernias always have to be operated on?
  • When are incisional hernias more difficult to treat?
  • Sources
• Hernias: Learn More – How are inguinal and femoral hernias treated in women?
  Last Update: December 13, 2023.
  • What causes inguinal and femoral hernias?
  • When is surgery considered?
  • What are the side effects of surgery?
  • What are the different types of surgery?
  • Which types of surgery are most suitable?
  • What do I need to know after having surgery?
  • What can you do if the hernia comes back?
  • What if you develop a hernia during pregnancy?
  • Sources
• Hernias: Learn More – How are inguinal hernias treated in children?
  Last Update: December 13, 2023.
  • What do inguinal hernias look like?
  • What risks are associated with inguinal hernias?
  • What are the treatment options for inguinal hernias?
  • Sources
• Overview: Bedwetting
  Last Update: May 18, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Causes
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Bedwetting: Learn More – What are the treatment options for bedwetting?
  Last Update: May 18, 2022.
  • When is it a good idea to consider treatment?
  • What can you do yourself?
  • How do electronic bedwetting alarms work?
  • How effective are bedwetting alarms?
  • What kinds of medication are there, and when are they considered?
  • How effective are medications?
  • Other medications and treatments
  • Sources
• Bedwetting: Learn More – What can make everyday life easier?
  Last Update: May 18, 2022.
  • What can you do if the bed gets wet?
  • Hygiene and cleanliness
  • Talking to children about bedwetting
  • What emotional effects might bedwetting have?
  • Getting over feelings of embarrassment
  • Sources
• Overview: Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo
  Last Update: October 4, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: Learn More – What can you do if you have BPPV?
  Last Update: October 4, 2023.
  • How do repositioning maneuvers work?
  • What does a repositioning maneuver involve?
  • Are there other treatment options?
  • Sources
• Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo: Research summaries – Do repositioning maneuvers help in benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV)?
  Last Update: October 4, 2023.
  • Research on effectiveness
  • Sources
• Overview: Endometriosis
  Last Update: March 24, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Endometriosis: Learn More – Treatment options for endometriosis
  Last Update: March 24, 2021.
  • Painkillers
  • Hormone therapy
  • Surgery
  • Other treatments
  • Options for women who would like to become pregnant
  • Treatment in an endometriosis center
  • A second medical opinion can help if you're not sure
  • Sources
• Endometriosis: Research summaries – Surgery: What are the pros and cons of taking hormones as well?
  Last Update: March 24, 2021.
  • Research on hormone therapy before and after surgery
  • Side effects
  • Sources
• Endometriosis: Learn More – Diagnosing endometriosis
  Last Update: March 24, 2021.
  • Anamnesis and physical examination
  • Ultrasound
  • Laparoscopy
  • Other diagnostic procedures
  • Stages of endometriosis
  • Sources
• Endometriosis: Learn More – My partner has endometriosis – What does that mean for me?
  Last Update: March 24, 2021.
  • Diagnosed with endometriosis – Now what?
  • How does endometriosis affect your partner?
  • How can you deal with endometriosis?
  • Sources
• Endometriosis: Learn More – The symptoms of endometriosis
  Last Update: March 24, 2021.
  • What does the pain feel like?
  • Sources
• Endometriosis: Learn More – What causes endometriosis?
  Last Update: March 24, 2021.
  • Theories about causes of endometriosis
  • Sources
• Overview: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  Last Update: December 28, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Learn More – Non-drug treatments
  Last Update: December 28, 2022.
  • Why is quitting smoking so important?
  • What can physical exercise do?
  • Can respiratory physiotherapy help?
  • What can you do if you have acute breathing difficulties?
  • What does patient education involve?
  • What is pulmonary rehabilitation?
  • When is it a good idea to get dietary advice?
  • How do oxygen therapy and breathing support masks work?
  • Sources
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Learn More – Medication for COPD
  Last Update: December 28, 2022.
  • What kinds of bronchodilators are available?
  • What can you expect from using steroid medications?
  • How effective are PDE4 inhibitors?
  • Can you combine the medications?
  • What other options are there?
  • Sources
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Learn More – Surgical procedures for the treatment of COPD
  Last Update: December 29, 2022.
  • How does lung volume reduction work?
  • How effective is lung volume reduction treatment?
  • What does bullectomy involve?
  • When is a transplant considered?
  • Sources
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): Learn More – What can help you to cope with COPD?
  Last Update: January 11, 2023.
  • What are the signs of early-stage COPD?
  • What happens as the disease progresses?
  • What are the coping strategies?
  • What does an action plan involve?
  • What role does being open about the disease play?
  • What changes in your relationships to family, partners and friends?
  • What options do family members have for support?
  • What is specialized outpatient palliative care?
  • What does care in palliative care units or hospices involve?
  • Sources
• Overview: Type 2 diabetes
  Last Update: December 18, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Type 2 diabetes: Learn More – What medications help in type 2 diabetes?
  Last Update: December 18, 2023.
  • When is medication considered?
  • What other medications lower the risk of cardiovascular disease?
  • How well do blood-sugar-lowering tablets (antidiabetics) work?
  • Types of antidiabetic drugs
  • When is insulin needed?
  • What are incretin mimetics?
  • Which medication is most suitable?
  • How much should blood sugar levels be reduced?
  • Sources
• Type 2 diabetes: Learn More – How is blood sugar measured?
  Last Update: December 18, 2023.
  • How can you measure blood sugar yourself?
  • How is sugar measured in body tissue?
  • When is blood sugar measured in a laboratory?
  • What is HbA1c?
  • Sources
• Type 2 diabetes: Learn More – Hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia in type 2 diabetes
  Last Update: December 18, 2023.
  • When is blood sugar considered to be too high or too low?
  • What are the signs of hyperglycemia?
  • High blood sugar: What now?
  • What are the signs of hypoglycemia?
  • Low blood sugar: What now?
  • Sources
• Type 2 diabetes: Learn More – How can you prevent type 2 diabetes?
  Last Update: December 18, 2023.
  • What are the benefits of weight loss, diet changes and more exercise?
  • Can blood-sugar-lowering medications protect you from type 2 diabetes?
  • How effective are these preventive measures?
  • Sources
• Overview: Genital herpes
  Last Update: March 23, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Genital herpes: Learn More – What are the treatment options for genital herpes?
  Last Update: March 23, 2022.
  • How are initial outbreaks treated?
  • When and how are later outbreaks treated?
  • When is preventive treatment considered?
  • Are antiviral medications safe?
  • Is there anything I can do to relieve the symptoms myself?
  • Sources
• Genital herpes: Learn More – Genital herpes in pregnancy
  Last Update: March 23, 2022.
  • Infection before or at the beginning of pregnancy
  • Infection in the last trimester of pregnancy
  • How can herpes outbreaks in pregnancy be treated?
  • Sources
• Genital herpes: Learn More – How can you prevent the spread of herpes in sexual relationships?
  Last Update: March 23, 2022.
  • How big is the risk of infection?
  • Should you get tested?
  • How effective is medication at preventing infection?
  • Sources
• Overview: Allergies
  Last Update: August 8, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overview: Phimosis
  Last Update: May 12, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Phimosis: Learn More – What are the treatment options for phimosis?
  Last Update: May 12, 2023.
  • What do you need to know about phimosis?
  • When is it a good idea to treat phimosis?
  • What are the treatment options?
  • What does treatment with steroid cream involve?
  • What benefits does treatment with steroid cream have?
  • Surgery: What procedures are used and what do they involve?
  • What are the benefits and risks of circumcision?
  • Sources
• Overview: Ingrown toenail
  Last Update: December 27, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Ingrown toenail: Learn More – Ingrown toenail treatment
  Last Update: December 27, 2021.
  • What can you do yourself?
  • What happens during surgery?
  • What risks are associated with the different procedures?
  • Which treatment is most likely to prevent the toenail from becoming ingrown again?
  • Sources
• Ingrown toenail: Learn More – How to cut toenails properly
  Last Update: December 27, 2021.
  • Sources
• Overview: Allergic contact dermatitis
  Last Update: February 1, 2024.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overview: Frozen shoulder
  Last Update: November 21, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Frozen shoulder: Learn More – Frozen shoulder: What can help?
  Last Update: November 21, 2022.
  • When are the different treatments most suitable?
  • How can you relieve the pain yourself?
  • How effective is treatment with steroids?
  • Can injections to loosen or numb the joint help?
  • How can shoulder mobility be improved?
  • Can surgery help?
  • What are the other treatment options?
  • Sources
• Overview: Hair loss in chemotherapy
  Last Update: January 11, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Hair loss in chemotherapy: Learn More – Can chemotherapy-related hair loss be prevented?
  Last Update: January 11, 2023.
  • How does scalp cooling work?
  • Does anything else help prevent hair loss?
  • Sources
• Overview: Epilepsy
  Last Update: May 4, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Epilepsy: Learn More – Epilepsy in children: Types and treatment options
  Last Update: May 4, 2023.
  • Might febrile convulsions actually be epilepsy?
  • What's the difference between epilepsy in children and adults?
  • What are the signs of epilepsy in newborn babies?
  • What special types of epilepsy occur in children?
  • What is the usual course of epilepsy in children?
  • How does epilepsy affect children?
  • How effective are medications?
  • Does a “keto diet” help?
  • When is surgery considered?
  • Sources
• Epilepsy: Learn More – What to do if someone has an epileptic seizure
  Last Update: May 4, 2023.
  • Minor seizures and seizures that affect awareness
  • Major seizures
  • When do you need to call the emergency services?
  • Sources
• Epilepsy: Learn More – Epilepsy in children: Everyday life
  Last Update: May 4, 2023.
  • What can you do when a child has a seizure?
  • What about sports and other activities?
  • What about day care and school?
  • Should other children be told about the epilepsy?
  • Does epilepsy limit teenagers’ further education or career options?
  • Do employers need to know that you have epilepsy?
  • Can you get a driver's license?
  • Where can families find support?
  • Sources
• Epilepsy: Learn More – Epilepsy in adults: Treatment with medication
  Last Update: May 4, 2023.
  • When does it make sense to take medication?
  • What are the medication options?
  • How effective are these medications?
  • What are the possible side effects of the medications?
  • What can I do to increase the odds of successful treatment?
  • Can you stop taking the medication after a while?
  • What do you need to consider when using contraception or if you wish to get pregnant?
  • How effective are AEDs in older people?
  • What is important for people with a mental disability?
  • What can be done if the medication doesn't work?
  • How is status epilepticus treated?
  • Sources
• Overview: Tooth decay
  Last Update: September 5, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Tooth decay: Learn More – Preventing tooth decay in children and teenagers
  Last Update: September 5, 2023.
  • What foods and drinks make a difference?
  • What should you know about brushing teeth?
  • How effective are fluoride varnishes and gels?
  • What is a dental sealant and when is it an option?
  • How often should you go to the dentist for a check-up?
  • Sources
• Overview: Bacterial vaginosis
  Last Update: April 4, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Bacterial vaginosis: Learn More – Which treatments are effective in bacterial vaginosis?
  Last Update: April 4, 2022.
  • How are antibiotics used?
  • How effective are antibiotics?
  • What are the side effects?
  • Can lactic acid bacteria help?
  • Can vaginosis be treated during pregnancy?
  • Sources
• Overview: Asthma
  Last Update: July 20, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Asthma: Learn More – Non-drug interventions for asthma
  Last Update: July 20, 2022.
  • What kind of breathing exercises could help in asthma?
  • Can you do exercise and sports despite having asthma?
  • How can you avoid things that trigger allergies?
  • What role does tobacco smoke play?
  • Does your weight affect the severity of asthma?
  • Does complementary medicine help?
  • Sources
• Asthma: Learn More – Coronavirus: What to be aware of if you have asthma
  Last Update: July 20, 2022.
  • Does asthma increase the risk of complications?
  • What about the risks for children?
  • Important: Continue taking your asthma medication!
  • What if you think you have COVID-19?
  • Do you have to wear a mask if you have asthma?
  • Sources
• Asthma: Learn More – Immunotherapy for allergic asthma
  Last Update: July 20, 2022.
  • Which allergies can be treated using allergen-specific immunotherapy?
  • What does the treatment involve?
  • How effective is immunotherapy?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • How common are anaphylactic reactions?
  • Which is more effective: Injections or tablets/drops?
  • Sources
• Asthma: Learn More – Medication for people with asthma
  Last Update: July 15, 2022.
  • What medications can be used for asthma?
  • When is reliever medication used?
  • What controller medications can be used?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • Sources
• Asthma: Learn More – Asthma in pregnancy
  Last Update: July 20, 2022.
  • How does asthma affect unborn children?
  • Is medication for the control of asthma safe in pregnancy?
  • How safe is allergen-specific immunotherapy?
  • What else can you do to prevent asthma attacks?
  • How can asthma or allergies be prevented in the baby?
  • Sources
• Asthma: Learn More – Symptoms and diagnosis
  Last Update: July 20, 2022.
  • What are the typical symptoms of asthma?
  • How severe is the asthma?
  • How is asthma diagnosed?
  • What do the talk with the doctor and the physical examination involve?
  • How is your lung function tested?
  • Why may further tests be needed?
  • When does it make sense to have an allergy test?
  • Sources
• Asthma: Learn More – Exercise-induced asthma
  Last Update: July 20, 2022.
  • How does exercise-induced asthma develop?
  • How is exercise-induced asthma diagnosed?
  • Are sports good or bad for people who have asthma?
  • Are some types of sports more suitable than others?
  • What medications can prevent exercise-induced asthma?
  • Are sports dangerous for children with asthma?
  • Sources
• Asthma: Learn More – Information for parents
  Last Update: July 20, 2022.
  • How can I tell whether my child has asthma?
  • Can you "grow out of" asthma?
  • My child has asthma – what do I need to know?
  • How can asthma medications help my child?
  • Can asthma medications harm my child?
  • How can I protect my child from asthma triggers?
  • What needs to be considered when doing exercise?
  • Can my child go on school trips?
  • What can I do to help my child during puberty?
  • Sources
• Overview: Infertility
  Last Update: May 18, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overview: Seborrheic dermatitis
  Last Update: February 1, 2024.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Seborrheic dermatitis: Learn More – Which treatments help in teenagers and adults?
  Last Update: February 1, 2024.
  • Are antifungal medicines effective?
  • How effective are steroid medications?
  • What can help to remove the flakes of skin?
  • Sources
• Seborrheic dermatitis: Learn More – Seborrheic dermatitis in babies (cradle cap)
  Last Update: February 1, 2024.
  • What does seborrheic dermatitis look like in babies?
  • How does it change over time?
  • What can parents do?
  • Sources
• Overview: Tinea versicolor
  Last Update: April 5, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Tinea versicolor: Learn More – Treatment for tinea versicolor
  Last Update: April 5, 2022.
  • What kinds of treatments are used directly on the skin?
  • How effective are these products in the treatment of tinea versicolor?
  • What can you do if topical treatment isn’t enough?
  • Sources
• Overview: Cold sores
  Last Update: March 23, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Cold sores: Learn More – How effective are creams and tablets for the treatment of cold sores?
  Last Update: March 23, 2022.
  • Topical medications
  • Oral medications
  • Sources
• Cold sores: Learn More – Can cold sore outbreaks be prevented?
  Last Update: March 23, 2022.
  • What can increase the likelihood of cold sore outbreaks?
  • Can medication prevent cold sores?
  • Does medication protect people with a weakened immune system?
  • What are the other treatment options?
  • Sources
• Overview: Tennis elbow
  Last Update: July 15, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Tennis elbow: Learn More – Tennis elbow: Strengthening and stretching exercises
  Last Update: July 15, 2022.
  • What are eccentric exercises?
  • Eccentric strengthening exercises: Example 1
  • Eccentric strengthening exercises: Example 2
  • Stretching
  • Sources
• Tennis elbow: Learn More – The treatment options for tennis elbow
  Last Update: July 15, 2022.
  • What are the treatment options?
  • Does resting your arm help?
  • How effective are stretching and strengthening exercises?
  • Can tablets or gels help?
  • Are elbow injections effective?
  • Other treatment options
  • Sources
• Overview: Chronic kidney disease
  Created: March 8, 2018.
  • Introduction
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Chronic kidney disease: Learn More – How effective are diet and exercise?
  Created: March 8, 2018.
  • How much can you drink?
  • Maintaining a normal weight
  • How much protein does your body need?
  • How much salt is allowed?
  • How much exercise is good for you?
  • Sources
• Chronic kidney disease: Learn More – Which medications can protect the kidneys, heart and blood vessels?
  Created: March 8, 2018.
  • Blood-pressure-lowering drugs
  • Cholesterol-lowering medications (statins)
  • Anti-clotting medication such as ASA
  • Urate-lowering therapy
  • Do dietary supplements help?
  • Sources
• Chronic kidney disease: Learn More – Dialysis in chronic kidney disease
  Created: March 8, 2018.
  • What does hemodialysis offer?
  • What does peritoneal dialysis offer?
  • What is hemofiltration?
  • Can you decide not to have dialysis?
  • Sources
• Chronic kidney disease: Research summaries – When is the best time to start dialysis?
  Created: March 8, 2018.
  • When is dialysis started?
  • Are there advantages to starting dialysis earlier?
  • What is needed to prepare for dialysis?
  • Sources
• Chronic kidney disease: Learn More – How does chronic kidney disease progress?
  Created: March 8, 2018.
  • What are the stages of chronic kidney disease?
  • How are kidney function and kidney damage measured?
  • Sources
• Overview: Fibromyalgia
  Last Update: May 24, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Fibromyalgia: Learn More – Medication for the treatment of fibromyalgia
  Last Update: May 24, 2022.
  • How effective are medications?
  • How common are side effects?
  • How are these medications used?
  • Avoiding side effects
  • Why aren’t painkillers suitable for the treatment of fibromyalgia?
  • Which medications need to be studied more closely?
  • Sources
• Fibromyalgia: Learn More – Complementary and alternative treatments
  Last Update: May 24, 2022.
  • Which approaches can help?
  • Why is healthy skepticism important?
  • Sources
• Fibromyalgia: Learn More – Exercise, relaxation and stress management
  Last Update: May 24, 2022.
  • What is mindfulness training?
  • Can biofeedback help?
  • What relaxation techniques can be used?
  • How can patient education help?
  • Sources
• Fibromyalgia: Learn More – Pain management and behavioral therapy
  Last Update: May 24, 2022.
  • What is multimodal pain management?
  • What is cognitive behavioral therapy and when is it considered?
  • Sources
• Fibromyalgia: Learn More – What is known about the causes of fibromyalgia?
  Last Update: May 24, 2022.
  • Abnormal pain messages
  • Genetic factors and pain processing
  • Psychological stress
  • Other factors
  • What kind of disease is fibromyalgia?
  • Sources
• Fibromyalgia: Learn More – Understanding chronic pain
  Last Update: May 24, 2022.
  • What’s the difference between acute and chronic pain?
  • What are the different types of pain?
  • How does chronic pain develop?
  • What are the treatment options for chronic pain?
  • Why is it important to stay active despite chronic pain?
  • Can fear hurt too?
  • Sources
• Overview: Hearing loss and deafness in children
  Last Update: April 15, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Hearing loss and deafness in children: Learn More – Hearing tests in newborns
  Last Update: April 15, 2021.
  • What happens if a newborn has a hearing problem?
  • How are hearing impairments diagnosed?
  • What are “otoacoustic emissions” and how are they measured?
  • How does auditory brainstem response (ABR) test work?
  • What are the advantages of doing these tests immediately after birth?
  • Sources
• Hearing loss and deafness in children: Research summaries – Hearing tests in newborns: Are there advantages?
  Last Update: April 15, 2021.
  • Research on the outcomes of hearing screening programs for newborn babies
  • Research on screening and early treatment
  • The outcomes of screening programs and early treatment
  • How important is early diagnosis?
  • Sources
• Overview: Osteoporosis and bone fractures
  Last Update: April 26, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Osteoporosis and bone fractures: Learn More – What are the pros and cons of medication to prevent bone fractures?
  Last Update: April 26, 2023.
  • How well do bisphosphonates prevent bone fractures?
  • How are bisphosphonates used?
  • What are the possible side effects of bisphosphonates?
  • Are there any serious side effects?
  • What examinations are done before starting treatment?
  • What about other medications?
  • Should you use medication for prevention?
  • Sources
• Osteoporosis and bone fractures: Learn More – Strengthening bones and preventing falls
  Last Update: April 26, 2023.
  • How does exercise strengthen the bones?
  • Why is it important to get enough calcium in your diet?
  • What does the sun have to do with vitamin D?
  • Who benefits from dietary supplements with calcium and vitamin D?
  • Why can too much alcohol be a problem?
  • Does quitting smoking help?
  • How can you prevent falls?
  • Sources
• Overview: Insect venom allergies
  Last Update: June 14, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Insect venom allergies: Learn More – Insect venom allergies: Short-term and long-term treatment
  Last Update: June 14, 2023.
  • How should insect stings be handled?
  • How can insect venom allergies be treated in the long-term?
  • Who is this treatment suitable for?
  • What does allergen-specific immunotherapy involve?
  • How effective is immunotherapy?
  • What are the side effects of allergen-specific immunotherapy?
  • Sources
• Insect venom allergies: Learn More – Anaphylactic reactions (anaphylaxis) after insect bites
  Last Update: June 14, 2023.
  • What are the signs of an anaphylactic reaction?
  • What can trigger anaphylaxis?
  • How should anaphylactic reactions be handled?
  • What if no pulse can be felt?
  • How are anaphylactic reactions treated?
  • What do emergency kits have in them?
  • Who can be given an emergency kit?
  • Sources
• Overview: Non-melanoma skin cancer
  Last Update: July 12, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Non-melanoma skin cancer: Learn More – What are the treatment options for non-melanoma skin cancer?
  Last Update: July 12, 2022.
  • What are the surgical options?
  • When is radiotherapy considered?
  • What are the medication options?
  • Sources
• Non-melanoma skin cancer: Learn More – Detecting non-melanoma skin cancer
  Last Update: July 12, 2022.
  • Where can basal cell carcinoma arise and what does it look like?
  • What does squamous cell carcinoma look like?
  • Sources
• Non-melanoma skin cancer: Learn More – What increases your risk of non-melanoma skin cancer?
  Last Update: July 12, 2022.
  • Why does the place where you live play a role?
  • Being sensible in the sun
  • Can tanning beds cause skin cancer too?
  • What types of skin are more prone to damage from UV radiation?
  • What other causes and risk factors are there?
  • How great is your risk if you have already had skin cancer?
  • Sources
• Non-melanoma skin cancer: Learn More – The course of non-melanoma skin cancer
  Last Update: July 12, 2022.
  • Basal cell carcinoma
  • Squamous cell carcinoma
  • Pre-cancerous conditions: Actinic keratosis and Bowen’s disease
  • Sources
• Non-melanoma skin cancer: Learn More – Avoiding too much sun
  Last Update: July 12, 2022.
  • How much protection do shade and clothing provide?
  • How effective is sunscreen?
  • Why do so many people go out in the sun without protection?
  • Sources
• Overview: Uterine fibroids
  Last Update: June 10, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Uterine fibroids: Learn More – Is fibroid surgery a good idea?
  Last Update: June 10, 2021.
  • Myomectomy (surgical removal of fibroids)
  • Hysterectomy (surgical removal of the womb)
  • Comparing myomectomy and hysterectomy
  • Making a decision
  • Sources
• Uterine fibroids: Learn More – When is treatment with hormones considered?
  Last Update: June 10, 2021.
  • GnRH analogues (agonists)
  • Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs)
  • Birth control pills: Progestin-only pills and combination pills
  • Ulipristal acetate
  • Sources
• Uterine fibroids: Learn More – What are the pros and cons of uterine artery embolization?
  Last Update: June 10, 2021.
  • What does uterine artery embolization involve?
  • How effective is uterine artery embolization?
  • When is uterine artery embolization not suitable?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • Does the treatment affect fertility?
  • How effective is uterine artery embolization compared to other procedures?
  • Sources
• Uterine fibroids: Learn More – Living with fibroids
  Last Update: June 10, 2021.
  • When is it a good idea to see a doctor?
  • How do fibroid symptoms affect everyday activities and quality of life?
  • What can you expect from treatment?
  • Finding your own way to cope
  • Sources
• Overview: Bunions
  Last Update: January 31, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Bunions: Learn More – Bunion surgery
  Last Update: January 31, 2022.
  • What does the surgery involve?
  • What happens after the surgery?
  • What factors play a role in the treatment decision?
  • How effective is surgery?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • Sources
• Overview: Impetigo
  Last Update: October 16, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Impetigo: Research summaries – Impetigo: What can make it go away faster?
  Last Update: October 16, 2023.
  • Research on how effective the different treatments are
  • Antibiotic creams are effective in the treatment of impetigo
  • The benefit of other treatments remains unclear
  • Sources
• Overview: Acute pancreatitis
  Last Update: May 25, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Acute pancreatitis: Learn More – How is acute pancreatitis treated?
  Last Update: May 25, 2021.
  • What is the most important first step in treating pancreatitis?
  • Relieving the pain
  • When can you start eating again?
  • When is a feeding tube needed?
  • Can antibiotics or other medications prevent complications?
  • How are gallstones treated?
  • Severe cases of pancreatitis
  • What happens after recovery?
  • Sources
• Overview: Heart failure
  Last Update: November 28, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Heart failure: Learn More – Types of heart failure
  Last Update: November 28, 2023.
  • Classification based on the heart’s pumping ability
  • Classification based on course of the disease
  • Classification based on which side of the heart is affected
  • Sources
• Overview: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  Last Update: January 31, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Learn More – What kind of support is helpful immediately after a traumatic event?
  Last Update: January 31, 2023.
  • What does psychological first aid following a traumatic event involve?
  • What else is important?
  • How do people react to traumatic events?
  • What is psychological first aid NOT?
  • Sources
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Learn More – Medication for post-traumatic stress disorder
  Last Update: January 31, 2023.
  • When are antidepressants an option?
  • What about sleeping pills and sedatives?
  • Can PTSD be prevented with medication?
  • Sources
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Learn More – Psychological treatments and other interventions for post-traumatic stress disorder
  Last Update: January 31, 2023.
  • Who can offer help and support?
  • What does psychological treatment involve?
  • What does “exposure” involve?
  • When is exposure therapy not possible?
  • What are the different types of psychological treatment?
  • How effective are the different treatments?
  • Other interventions
  • Sources
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): Research summaries – Can early psychological treatment prevent post-traumatic stress disorder?
  Last Update: January 31, 2023.
  • Debriefing
  • What do studies say about the benefits of psychological debriefing?
  • Brief trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy
  • What does the research on the benefits of brief cognitive behavioral therapy show?
  • Sources
• Overview: Ovarian cysts
  Last Update: April 21, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Ovarian cysts: Research summaries – Does ultrasound screening for ovarian cancer help?
  Last Update: April 21, 2022.
  • Does ultrasound screening for ovarian cancer improve the chances of survival?
  • What are the disadvantages of ultrasound screening for ovarian cancer?
  • Ultrasound screening in figures
  • What does the ultrasound examination involve?
  • What are the side effects of having ovaries removed?
  • Sources
• Overview: Common colds
  Last Update: December 11, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Common colds: Learn More – Relief for a stuffy nose, cough and sore throat
  Last Update: December 11, 2023.
  • When are painkillers helpful?
  • What do you need to watch for when using nasal sprays?
  • Are vitamin supplements a good idea?
  • Can herbal products and honey help?
  • Does inhaling steam and drinking a lot of fluids help?
  • When does it make sense to use antibiotics?
  • Sources
• Common colds: Research summaries – Should you take antibiotics if you have a cold?
  Last Update: December 11, 2023.
  • Poor outcome for antibiotics used in simple common colds
  • Sources
• Common colds: Research summaries – Does vitamin C prevent colds?
  Last Update: December 11, 2023.
  • Studies on vitamin C
  • Research results
  • Sources
• Overview: Gout
  Last Update: March 28, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Gout: Learn More – When is long-term treatment with medication suitable?
  Last Update: March 28, 2022.
  • When is medication an option?
  • What medication options are there?
  • How effective are the medications?
  • What should be considered when taking the medication?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • Sources
• Gout: Learn More – What can I do on my own to prevent gout attacks?
  Last Update: March 28, 2022.
  • What role do purines play?
  • What effect do your weight and diet have?
  • Does avoiding alcohol help?
  • What should I consider if I take medication?
  • Can dietary supplements help?
  • What if changing your diet isn’t enough?
  • Sources
• Gout: Learn More – Acute gout attacks: Pain relief
  Last Update: March 28, 2022.
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Steroids (corticosteroids)
  • Colchicine
  • Comparing the medications
  • Sources
• Overview: Tendon overuse injuries (tendinopathy)
  Last Update: March 29, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Tendon overuse injuries (tendinopathy): Learn More – How are tendon overuse injuries treated?
  Last Update: March 29, 2022.
  • First rest...
  • ...then do exercises
  • Short-term use of painkillers
  • What other treatments are offered?
  • Sources
• Overview: Premature ejaculation
  Last Update: September 23, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Premature ejaculation: Learn More – What can I do on my own?
  Last Update: September 23, 2022.
  • Start-stop technique
  • Squeeze technique
  • Pelvic floor exercises
  • How effective are these techniques?
  • What else can I try?
  • Sources
• Premature ejaculation: Learn More – Does medication work?
  Last Update: September 23, 2022.
  • Which SSRIs are used?
  • How effective are SSRIs?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of the medications that are applied locally?
  • What other medications are available?
  • Sources
• Premature ejaculation: Learn More – Can sex therapy help?
  Last Update: September 23, 2022.
  • How can premature ejaculation cause problems in a relationship?
  • What are the goals of sex therapy?
  • What does sex therapy involve?
  • What can be expected from sex therapy?
  • Sources
• Overview: Wrist injuries
  Last Update: January 2, 2024.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Outlook and effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overview: Dust mite allergies
  Last Update: August 17, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Dust mite allergies: Learn More – Allergen-specific immunotherapy (desensitization) in the treatment of dust mite allergies
  Last Update: August 17, 2023.
  • How does immunotherapy work?
  • Which allergies can be treated using allergen-specific immunotherapy?
  • What does the treatment involve?
  • Can allergen-specific immunotherapy help?
  • What are the side effects?
  • How likely are dangerous reactions?
  • Which is most effective: Injections, drops or tablets?
  • Sources
• Dust mite allergies: Learn More – What can relieve allergic rhinitis?
  Last Update: August 17, 2023.
  • What medications are available?
  • Do some medications work better than others?
  • Sources
• Overview: Styes and chalazia (inflammation of the eyelid)
  Last Update: January 2, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Styes and chalazia (inflammation of the eyelid): Learn More – What can you do if you have a stye or a chalazion?
  Last Update: January 2, 2023.
  • What are the treatment options for styes?
  • What can you do if you have a chalazion?
  • Sources
• Overview: Nail fungus
  Last Update: December 2, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Nail fungus: Learn More – Nail fungus: Polish, cream or tablets?
  Last Update: December 2, 2022.
  • What topical (external) treatments are there?
  • How effective are topical treatments?
  • What oral medications are available?
  • How effective are tablets in treating nail fungus?
  • What side effects and drug-drug interactions do the tablets have?
  • What can be expected of products such as tea tree oil?
  • When are the different treatments considered?
  • Which treatment is right for me?
  • Sources
• Overview: Kidney stones
  Last Update: March 1, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Kidney stones: Learn More – Treatment options for kidney stones
  Last Update: March 1, 2023.
  • Is medication effective for treating kidney stones?
  • How are kidney stones removed?
  • How do the advantages and disadvantages of the different treatments compare?
  • Sources
• Kidney stones: Learn More – Preventing kidney stones
  Last Update: March 1, 2023.
  • Does drinking a lot of water help?
  • Is avoiding soft drinks a good idea?
  • Is changing your diet a good idea?
  • When are medications used to prevent kidney stones?
  • How effective are the medications used for prevention?
  • Sources
• Overview: Athlete's foot
  Last Update: December 2, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Athlete's foot: Learn More – What helps to get rid of athlete's foot?
  Last Update: December 2, 2022.
  • What medications are available for athlete's foot?
  • How are the treatments used?
  • How effective are these athlete's foot treatments?
  • When are tablets considered?
  • What disadvantages do the tablets have?
  • Can home remedies such as foot baths help?
  • Sources
• Overview: Ankle sprains
  Last Update: June 24, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Ankle sprains: Learn More – What are the treatment options for ankle sprains?
  Last Update: June 24, 2022.
  • Ankle sprain: What can you do?
  • When can you put weight on your foot again?
  • Does physical therapy help?
  • What helps to relieve the pain?
  • What are the advantages or disadvantages of surgery?
  • Sources
• Ankle sprains: Learn More – What helps against chronic ankle instability?
  Last Update: June 24, 2022.
  • What treatment options are there?
  • How can you get fit again after surgery?
  • Which is better: physical therapy or surgery?
  • Sources
• Overview: Hemophilia
  Last Update: March 16, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Hemophilia: Research summaries – Do people with severe hemophilia benefit from preventive treatment?
  Last Update: March 16, 2023.
  • Treatment of severe hemophilia
  • Possible advantages of preventive therapy
  • Sources
• Scoliosis in teenagers: Learn More – Surgery
  Created: May 10, 2022.
  • What does surgery involve?
  • What are the risks of surgery?
  • When is it the right time for surgery?
  • How long does it take to recover?
  • What are the side effects of surgery?
  • Are there alternatives to spinal fusion?
  • Sources
• Surgery: Learn More – Pain after surgery
  Last Update: April 19, 2022.
  • What is important before surgery?
  • How can you describe the pain?
  • What are the pain treatment options?
  • Which methods are used near the spine?
  • How does patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) work?
  • What side effects do painkillers have?
  • Can pain be relieved without medication?
  • Sources
• Surgery: Learn More – What can help relieve anxiety before surgery?
  Last Update: April 19, 2022.
  • What are the possible effects of anxiety?
  • What can you do yourself to help relieve anxiety before surgery?
  • How can doctors and other medical professionals help?
  • Do sedatives help relieve anxiety before surgery?
  • What if you smoke cigarettes?
  • Sources
• Surgery: Research summaries – Can quitting smoking before surgery prevent complications?
  Last Update: April 19, 2022.
  • Four weeks of not smoking can lower the risk of complications
  • Sources
• Surgery: Learn More – Before surgery: Getting information and making a decision
  Last Update: April 19, 2022.
  • What can help relieve anxiety before surgery?
  • Information and decision aids
  • Other things that may be important before surgery
  • Sources
• Surgery: Learn More – What helps children cope with anxiety before an operation?
  Last Update: April 19, 2022.
  • How can parents help their child before an operation?
  • What do hospitals offer?
  • Sources
• Overview: Pneumonia
  Last Update: May 18, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Pneumonia: Learn More – What are the different types of pneumonia?
  Last Update: May 18, 2021.
  • Community-acquired and nosocomial pneumonia
  • Mild, moderate or severe pneumonia
  • How can pneumonia be described more precisely?
  • Sources
• Pneumonia: Learn More – What happens if I get pneumonia in the hospital?
  Last Update: May 18, 2021.
  • Why is there a greater risk of complications in a hospital?
  • Which bacteria play a role?
  • Which antibiotics are needed to treat hospital-acquired pneumonia?
  • What can prevent pneumonia?
  • Sources
• Pneumonia: Learn More – Pneumonia in older people: What you should know
  Last Update: May 18, 2021.
  • What are the signs of pneumonia in older people?
  • How is pneumonia treated in older people?
  • How can pneumonia be prevented in older people?
  • What happens when people develop pneumonia very late in life?
  • Sources
• Pneumonia: Learn More – Pneumonia in children: What you should know
  Last Update: May 18, 2021.
  • How can I tell if my child has pneumonia?
  • What are the typical causes in children?
  • When is pneumonia considered to be severe?
  • What do you need to know about treatment with antibiotics?
  • Which vaccinations are advisable for children?
  • Sources
• Overview: Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  Last Update: July 27, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): Learn More – Treatments for obsessive-compulsive disorder
  Last Update: July 27, 2021.
  • What does cognitive behavioral therapy involve?
  • What can I expect from cognitive behavioral therapy?
  • Which medications can help?
  • Which is more effective: Cognitive behavioral therapy or medication?
  • Sources
• Overview: Acute bronchitis
  Last Update: April 18, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Acute bronchitis: Learn More – Treating acute bronchitis
  Last Update: April 18, 2023.
  • Is it worth using medicine to loosen and cough up phlegm (expectorants)?
  • What do cough suppressants (antitussives) do?
  • How effective are herbal products?
  • Do bronchodilators work?
  • Which medications can help relieve other symptoms?
  • What else can you do?
  • Why aren’t antibiotics recommended?
  • Sources
• Overview: Pregnancy
  Last Update: September 21, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Signs of pregnancy
  • Outlook
  • Screening
  • Prenatal diagnostics
  • Everyday life
  • Pregnancy-related problems
  • Illnesses
  • Unplanned pregnancy
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Birth: Learn More – Reflux in babies
  Last Update: March 22, 2018.
  • What causes reflux?
  • When is reflux normal?
  • When do you need to see a doctor?
  • Sources
• Pregnancy: Learn More – What helps reduce nausea in pregnancy?
  Last Update: September 21, 2022.
  • When is nausea most common?
  • Which medication-free treatments can help?
  • How effective are the medications?
  • How effective are herbal products like ginger?
  • How safe are medications and herbal products?
  • How well do "alternative" treatments work?
  • Sources
• Birth: Learn More – Epidurals and other medications to relieve labor pain
  Last Update: October 20, 2022.
  • What is an epidural?
  • How is an epidural given?
  • How effective are epidurals?
  • What are the side effects of epidurals?
  • How does the epidural affect the baby and birth?
  • Can you move around if you have an epidural?
  • What other forms of regional anesthesia are there?
  • What other medications can be used to relieve labor pain?
  • Sources
• Birth: Learn More – What can be done if a baby is likely to be born too early?
  Last Update: October 20, 2022.
  • What is preterm birth?
  • What are the possible causes of preterm birth?
  • How can you tell if you’re in preterm labor?
  • What can be done if you're in preterm labor?
  • What will happen after the birth?
  • How will the child develop?
  • Sources
• Birth: Learn More – When your baby’s due date has passed
  Last Update: October 20, 2022.
  • How exact is the due date?
  • What can delay the birth?
  • Is a longer pregnancy a problem?
  • How can you see how the unborn baby is doing?
  • When is labor induced?
  • What is the benefit of inducing labor?
  • What can you do yourself to get labor started?
  • How is labor induced medically?
  • Does inducing labor using hormones have side effects?
  • What does induced labor feel like?
  • Sources
• Birth: Learn More – Managing pain during childbirth
  Last Update: October 20, 2022.
  • What does labor pain feel like?
  • How can your support person help?
  • How do midwives help?
  • Moving and breathing help
  • Are there other options that don’t involve medication?
  • What medications are effective?
  • Letting the birth run its course
  • Sources
• Pregnancy: Learn More – Weight gain in pregnancy
  Last Update: September 21, 2022.
  • How much weight gain do experts recommend?
  • Can putting on too much or too little weight be harmful?
  • Is very fast weight gain problematic?
  • Does avoiding too much weight gain have any advantages?
  • What is important for diet and exercise?
  • How can underweight pregnant women gain enough weight?
  • Does watching your weight prevent stretch marks?
  • What helps to lose weight after having a baby?
  • How do women feel about their weight in pregnancy and afterwards?
  • Sources
• Birth: Learn More – Why is a test offered for the detection of serious heart problems in newborns?
  Last Update: May 4, 2017.
  • Why is this test offered?
  • What does pulse oximetry involve?
  • How reliably are serious heart defects detected?
  • Does pulse oximetry have disadvantages?
  • Where is the test carried out?
  • What happens if you decide not to make use of the test?
  • More information
  • Sources
• After the baby is born: Learn More – Depression after childbirth – What can help?
  Last Update: October 4, 2023.
  • What are the signs of postnatal depression?
  • What’s the difference between postnatal depression and “normal” depression?
  • What can cause postnatal depression?
  • Is postnatal depression dangerous?
  • Can postnatal depression be prevented?
  • Can counseling and psychotherapy help with postnatal depression?
  • Can medication help?
  • Can antidepressants harm the child?
  • Are there other treatment options?
  • Where can women and families find help?
  • Sources
• Pregnancy: Learn More – HIV test in pregnancy
  Last Update: September 21, 2022.
  • What is HIV?
  • Why have you been offered an HIV test?
  • How can you protect your child if you have HIV?
  • Is it possible to get HIV during pregnancy?
  • Are there any negative consequences of HIV tests?
  • Who will know if you have the test done?
  • Can you have a test done anonymously?
  • What do HIV tests involve?
  • How much does an HIV test cost?
  • Where can I find more information?
  • Sources
• Pregnancy: Learn More – Ultrasound scans in pregnancy
  Last Update: September 21, 2022.
  • Which ultrasound scans are offered during pregnancy?
  • What is not included in standard ultrasounds?
  • How reliable are the results of a standard ultrasound scan?
  • Can an ultrasound scan be harmful?
  • Is it possible to opt out of having an ultrasound scan?
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overview: Vocal nodules
  Last Update: January 19, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overview: Falls in older people
  Last Update: May 3, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Prevention
  • Everyday life
  • Sources
• Falls in older people: Learn More – What older people can do to prevent falls
  Last Update: May 3, 2022.
  • Can exercise programs help?
  • Which medications can increase the risk of falls?
  • Can vitamin D prevent falls?
  • What else might help?
  • Sources
• Overview: Ankle fractures
  Last Update: June 24, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Ankle fractures: Research summaries – Ankle fractures: What can help get you back on your feet again?
  Last Update: June 24, 2022.
  • Research on the effectiveness of rehabilitation interventions
  • Interventions during immobilization
  • Interventions done after the immobilization phase
  • Sources
• Overview: Small objects in the eye
  Last Update: October 4, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overview: Erysipelas and cellulitis
  Last Update: September 1, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Erysipelas and cellulitis: Research summaries – Can antibiotics prevent erysipelas from coming back?
  Last Update: September 1, 2022.
  • Research on preventive treatment with penicillin
  • Antibiotics lower the risk of further infections
  • Low-dose penicillin is well tolerated
  • Sources
• Overview: Warts
  Last Update: January 11, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Warts: Learn More – What are the treatment options for warts?
  Last Update: January 11, 2023.
  • How effective is salicylic acid in treating warts?
  • How effective is cryotherapy?
  • How do salicyclic acid treatment and cryotherapy compare?
  • What are the other treatment options?
  • Can warts be “talked” off?
  • Sources
• Overview: Health care in Germany
  Last Update: February 8, 2018.
  • Introduction
  • Health insurance
  • Outpatient treatment
  • Inpatient treatment
  • Pharmacies
  • Guidance and self-help
  • Sources
• Health care in Germany: Learn More – At the hospital
  Last Update: February 8, 2018.
  • Finding the right hospital
  • Treatment costs and additional fees
  • What documents do I need to take with me?
  • When you arrive at the ward
  • What happens before surgery?
  • Social services and pastoral care
  • Discharge and further treatment
  • Sources
• Health care in Germany: Research summaries – How can quality reports help you find the right hospital?
  Last Update: February 8, 2018.
  • What information do quality reports contain?
  • How hospital search engines work
  • How is quality assurance organized in a hospital?
  • More information
  • Sources
• Health care in Germany: Learn More – At the doctor’s
  Last Update: February 8, 2018.
  • How do I find the right doctor’s practice?
  • How can I prepare myself?
  • What should you consider when seeing a doctor?
  • Screening, prevention and vaccinations
  • What are “IGeL” services?
  • Where can I get medication?
  • Treatment and check-ups at the dentist’s
  • Sources
• Health care in Germany: Learn More – The German health care system
  Last Update: February 8, 2018.
  • The basic principles of the health care system
  • A bit of history: The five branches of social welfare
  • Structure and institutions of the health care system
  • Outpatient care
  • Inpatient care
  • Sources
• Overview: Osteoarthritis
  Last Update: December 4, 2018.
  • Introduction
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overview: Wisdom teeth
  Last Update: September 5, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Wisdom teeth: Learn More – Should you have your wisdom teeth removed?
  Last Update: September 5, 2023.
  • When is it a good idea to have your wisdom teeth pulled?
  • What are the potential side effects of having wisdom teeth removed?
  • What can you do about pain during and after the operation?
  • What can I do to help the wound heal?
  • Sources
• Overview: Gingivitis and periodontitis
  Last Update: August 23, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Gingivitis and periodontitis: Learn More – How is periodontitis treated?
  Last Update: August 23, 2023.
  • Who covers the costs of treatment?
  • How can you improve your oral hygiene?
  • What is deep cleaning (non-surgical periodontal treatment)?
  • When are antibiotics considered?
  • What do open surgical procedures involve?
  • What does the follow-up care look like?
  • What can help you to cope with periodontitis?
  • Sources
• Gingivitis and periodontitis: Learn More – What are the advantages and disadvantages of professional teeth-cleaning?
  Last Update: August 23, 2023.
  • What does professional teeth cleaning involve?
  • Does it make sense to have professional teeth-cleaning to prevent tooth decay and gum disease?
  • What role does professional teeth-cleaning play in periodontitis?
  • Does professional teeth-cleaning have other advantages?
  • Could professional teeth-cleaning have disadvantages too?
  • How much does professional teeth-cleaning cost?
  • Sources
• Overview: Diarrhea
  Last Update: February 22, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Diarrhea: Learn More – Traveler's diarrhea
  Last Update: February 22, 2023.
  • How can you prevent diarrhea while traveling?
  • Can vaccines offer protection?
  • What kinds of bacteria can cause diarrhea?
  • Which parasites cause diarrhea?
  • Which viruses can lead to diarrhea?
  • When is medication recommended?
  • What can you do about diarrhea yourself?
  • When do you need to see a doctor?
  • Where can you find reliable health information for overseas travel?
  • Sources
• Diarrhea: Learn More – Preventing stomach bugs (gastroenteritis)
  Last Update: February 23, 2023.
  • Why is it so important to wash your hands?
  • What do you need to consider when preparing food?
  • What vaccines are available for prevention?
  • Sources
• Overview: Pelvic organ prolapse
  Last Update: September 23, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Pelvic organ prolapse: Learn More – Surgery for pelvic organ prolapse
  Last Update: September 23, 2021.
  • What types of surgery are used?
  • How effective is vaginal wall repair surgery?
  • How effective is surgery for uterine prolapse?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of synthetic meshes?
  • Is a hysterectomy (removal of the womb) necessary?
  • A second medical opinion may help
  • Sources
• Pelvic organ prolapse: Learn More – Pelvic floor exercises and vaginal pessaries
  Last Update: September 23, 2021.
  • What are pelvic floor exercises?
  • How effective are pelvic floor exercises?
  • What are vaginal pessaries?
  • How effective are pessaries?
  • Do pessaries have disadvantages?
  • Sources
• Overview: Chronic wounds
  Last Update: August 8, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Chronic wounds: Learn More – What are the treatment options for chronic wounds?
  Last Update: August 8, 2022.
  • Cleaning the wound
  • Debridement
  • Wound dressings
  • Compression stockings and compression bandages
  • Antibiotics
  • Hyperbaric oxygen therapy
  • Negative pressure wound therapy
  • Skin grafts
  • Ultrasound and electromagnetic therapy
  • What are the pain management options?
  • Sources
• Chronic wounds: Research summaries – Negative pressure wound therapy
  Last Update: August 8, 2022.
  • Negative pressure wound therapy
  • Primary and secondary wound healing
  • Research on negative pressure wound therapy
  • Possible advantages of negative pressure wound therapy
  • Sources
• Overview: Generalized anxiety disorder
  Last Update: July 7, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Generalized anxiety disorder: Learn More – Treatment options for generalized anxiety disorder
  Last Update: July 7, 2021.
  • What can you do yourself?
  • What happens in psychological treatments?
  • What kinds of drug treatments are available?
  • Which treatment is most suitable?
  • Sources
• Overview: Carpal tunnel syndrome
  Last Update: May 20, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Carpal tunnel syndrome: Learn More – Wrist splints and hand exercises
  Last Update: May 20, 2021.
  • When are wrist splints considered?
  • Does avoiding certain types of strain help?
  • How effective are hand exercises?
  • Sources
• Carpal tunnel syndrome: Learn More – When is surgery considered or needed?
  Last Update: May 20, 2021.
  • What types of surgery are used?
  • How effective is surgery?
  • What can you do if the surgery doesn't help enough?
  • What risks are associated with the surgery?
  • Things to remember after the surgery
  • Sources
• Carpal tunnel syndrome: Learn More – How effective are steroids?
  Last Update: May 20, 2021.
  • How effective are steroid injections?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • How long will the improvement last?
  • How effective are steroid tablets?
  • Sources
• Overview: Misaligned teeth and jaws
  Last Update: February 13, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Misaligned teeth and jaws: Learn More – Treatment with fixed braces
  Last Update: February 13, 2023.
  • How do fixed braces work?
  • What are the advantages?
  • What are the disadvantages?
  • What else can be used?
  • What is the retention phase?
  • Sources
• Misaligned teeth and jaws: Learn More – Treatment with removable braces
  Last Update: February 13, 2023.
  • How do removable braces work?
  • What are the advantages?
  • What are the disadvantages?
  • What are functional orthodontic appliances?
  • What other types are there?
  • What is the retention phase?
  • Sources
• Misaligned teeth and jaws: Learn More – What are misaligned teeth and jaws?
  Last Update: February 13, 2023.
  • What does a normal set of teeth look like?
  • What are the different types of misaligned teeth and jaws?
  • What is an overbite?
  • What is an underbite?
  • What is an open bite?
  • What is a crossbite?
  • Sources
• Overview: Diverticular disease and diverticulitis
  Last Update: December 28, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Diverticular disease and diverticulitis: Learn More – Treating chronic diverticular disease
  Last Update: December 28, 2021.
  • How is symptomatic uncomplicated diverticular disease treated?
  • How is recurrent diverticulitis treated?
  • Sources
• Diverticular disease and diverticulitis: Learn More – Treating acute diverticulitis
  Last Update: December 28, 2021.
  • How is uncomplicated diverticulitis treated?
  • How is complicated diverticulitis treated?
  • Sources
• Diverticular disease and diverticulitis: Learn More – Surgery for diverticulitis and diverticular disease
  Last Update: December 28, 2021.
  • Acute diverticulitis
  • Chronic diverticular disease
  • What happens during the surgery?
  • What are the risks of surgery?
  • Surgery during peritonitis?
  • Making a decision
  • Sources
• Overview: Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
  Last Update: June 15, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Prevention
  • Effects
  • Treatment
  • Sources
• Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism): Learn More – Are there benefits to treating subclinical hypothyroidism?
  Last Update: June 18, 2021.
  • How is subclinical hypothyroidism diagnosed?
  • How does subclinical hypothyroidism develop over time?
  • Does thyroxine treatment have any benefits if your TSH levels are high?
  • Does thyroxine treatment have side effects?
  • Does treatment make sense during pregnancy?
  • What can help you decide whether to have treatment?
  • Sources
• Overview: Boils and carbuncles
  Last Update: November 22, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Boils and carbuncles: Learn More – How are boils treated?
  Last Update: November 22, 2022.
  • When are compresses and ointments an option?
  • What does cutting and draining involve?
  • Which treatment is considered for more severe cases?
  • Sources
• Overview: Abdominal aortic aneurysm
  Last Update: October 6, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Screening
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm: Learn More – When is surgery recommended for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm?
  Last Update: October 6, 2021.
  • Deciding whether to have surgery
  • What surgical techniques are used?
  • Open surgery
  • Endovascular surgery
  • What are the possible complications?
  • Sources
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm: Learn More – Why are men offered screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms?
  Last Update: October 6, 2021.
  • What does the screening tell us?
  • What are the advantages of screening?
  • What are the disadvantages of screening?
  • What changes when you know you have an aneurysm?
  • What happens during surgery?
  • Does screening have more benefits or more drawbacks?
  • Sources
• Overview: Scarlet fever
  Last Update: September 21, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Overview: Chickenpox
  Last Update: February 8, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Chickenpox: Learn More – How can you avoid getting chickenpox?
  Last Update: February 8, 2023.
  • How long is chickenpox contagious and how does it spread?
  • Who is the chickenpox vaccination recommended for?
  • What if you're not immune and come into contact with someone who has chickenpox?
  • How can you avoid infection in everyday life?
  • Sources
• Overview: Shingles
  Last Update: February 8, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Shingles: Learn More – Lasting pain after shingles
  Last Update: February 8, 2023.
  • What increases the risk of long-lasting pain?
  • Can post-herpetic neuralgia be prevented?
  • How is post-herpetic neuralgia treated?
  • Sources
• Overview: Gastritis
  Last Update: November 10, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Peptic ulcers: Research summaries – Preventing peptic ulcers
  Created: November 16, 2021.
  • Medication to prevent ulcers
  • When is preventive medication recommended?
  • Research on the prevention of peptic ulcers
  • Proton pump inhibitors lower the risk of peptic ulcers
  • H2 blockers: Effectiveness depends on dose
  • Misoprostol is effective, but side effects are more common
  • Which medication is suitable?
  • Sources
• Overview: Drug allergies
  Last Update: August 14, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Drug allergies: Learn More – Anaphylactic reactions (anaphylaxis) to drugs
  Last Update: August 14, 2023.
  • What are the signs of an anaphylactic reaction?
  • What can trigger anaphylaxis?
  • How should anaphylactic reactions be handled?
  • What if no pulse can be felt?
  • How are anaphylactic reactions treated?
  • What do emergency kits have in them?
  • Who can be given an emergency kit?
  • Sources
• Overview: Golfer's elbow
  Last Update: July 15, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Golfer's elbow: Learn More – The treatment options for golfer’s elbow
  Last Update: July 15, 2022.
  • What are the treatment options?
  • Does resting your arm help?
  • How effective are stretching and strengthening exercises?
  • Can tablets or gels help?
  • Are elbow injections effective?
  • Other treatment options
  • Sources
• Golfer's elbow: Learn More – Golfer’s elbow: Strengthening and stretching exercises
  Last Update: July 15, 2022.
  • What are eccentric exercises?
  • Eccentric strengthening exercises: An example
  • Stretching
  • Sources
• Overview: Tenosynovitis
  Last Update: May 13, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Tenosynovitis: Learn More – How can tenosynovitis be treated?
  Last Update: May 13, 2022.
  • Which conservative measures can help?
  • When is surgery considered?
  • Sources
• Overview: Bursitis
  Last Update: May 4, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Bursitis: Learn More – How can bursitis be treated?
  Last Update: May 4, 2022.
  • What are the conservative (non-surgical) treatment options?
  • When is surgery a good idea?
  • Sources
• Overview: Osteoarthritis of the knee
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Osteoarthritis of the knee: Learn More – What can I do to strengthen my knees?
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • What are good exercises for osteoarthritis of the knee?
  • What to remember
  • Do endurance sports help too?
  • Who can help you find the right exercises or exercise classes?
  • How do you find the right amount of exercise?
  • Why shouldn’t you worry about pain?
  • What can help you stick with an exercise routine?
  • What else can you do?
  • Sources
• Osteoarthritis of the knee: Learn More – Do knee injections help?
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • How well do steroid injections work?
  • What do studies on hyaluronic acid show?
  • Can treatment with autologous blood help?
  • What is known about injections with your own stem cells?
  • Sources
• Osteoarthritis of the knee: Learn More – Joint replacement in osteoarthritis of the knee
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • When is joint replacement surgery considered?
  • How much does an artificial knee help?
  • What risks are associated with surgery?
  • What can I expect from an artificial knee joint in the long term?
  • What determines how long an artificial knee lasts?
  • Will my prosthesis need to be exchanged at some point?
  • Sources
• Osteoarthritis of the knee: Learn More – What different types of artificial knee joints are there?
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • What’s the structure of an artificial knee joint?
  • What’s the difference between partial and total knee replacement?
  • What are the different types of total knee replacement prostheses?
  • How is the prosthesis fixed in the joint?
  • What are the advantages and disadvantages of partial and total knee replacements?
  • Sources
• Osteoarthritis of the knee: Learn More – Which painkillers help in osteoarthritis of the knee?
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • How are NSAIDs and coxibs used?
  • How effective are NSAIDs and coxibs?
  • How common are side effects and complications?
  • Can you become dependent on NSAIDs and coxibs?
  • What are the possible reasons not to take NSAIDs and coxibs?
  • Is the painkiller metamizole (“Novalgin”) an alternative?
  • Why are opioid painkillers usually not suitable for treating osteoarthritis?
  • Sources
• Osteoarthritis of the knee: Learn More – What can you expect before and after surgery?
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • How can you find a suitable hospital to have the surgery at?
  • How can you prepare for surgery and your stay at the hospital?
  • How can you prepare for the time after the procedure?
  • What can you expect after surgery?
  • How long does it take for the surgical wound to heal?
  • What happens during rehabilitation?
  • How long does recovery take and what do you have to consider?
  • How much can you move a knee implant?
  • What types of sports work well after a knee replacement?
  • Can you return to work and, if so, when?
  • Sources
• Osteoarthritis of the knee: Research summaries – Does arthroscopy help in osteoarthritis of the knee?
  Last Update: August 24, 2021.
  • What happens during an arthroscopy?
  • Can arthroscopy help?
  • Sources
• Overview: Brain aneurysm
  Last Update: September 29, 2021.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Brain aneurysm: Learn More – What are the treatment options for a brain aneurysm?
  Last Update: September 29, 2021.
  • What happens during brain aneurysm surgery?
  • What does catheter treatment (endovascular coiling) involve?
  • Sources
• Brain aneurysm: Learn More – What happens during a brain hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain)?
  Last Update: September 29, 2021.
  • What is a subarachnoid hemorrhage?
  • What is a hemorrhagic stroke?
  • Other types of bleeding
  • Sources
• Brain aneurysm: Learn More – Deciding whether to treat an aneurysm
  Last Update: September 29, 2021.
  • What increases the likelihood of a rupture?
  • What can I do to lower my risk?
  • Does the risk suggest that treatment is needed?
  • Sources
• Overview: Enlarged tonsils and adenoids
  Last Update: January 17, 2023.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Enlarged tonsils and adenoids: Learn More – Surgery for enlarged tonsils or adenoids
  Last Update: January 17, 2023.
  • What does tonsil surgery involve?
  • Can you first wait and see?
  • How effective is tonsil surgery?
  • What are the pros and cons of only partially removing the tonsils rather than taking them out completely?
  • What are the possible side effects?
  • Things to remember after the surgery
  • Take bleeding after surgery seriously
  • A second medical opinion may help
  • Sources
• Overview: Heart valve diseases
  Created: January 31, 2019.
  • Introduction
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Heart valve diseases: Learn More – Treatments for heart valve disease
  Created: January 31, 2019.
  • Treating narrowed aortic valves (aortic valve stenosis)
  • Treating mitral valves that don’t close properly (regurgitation)
  • Treating other types of heart valve disease
  • What happens during catheter treatment and open heart surgery?
  • Can medication help too?
  • Is treatment always necessary?
  • Sources
• Overview: Vaginal yeast infection (thrush)
  Last Update: April 4, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Prevention
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Vaginal yeast infection (thrush): Learn More – Vaginal yeast infections (thrush): What can help?
  Last Update: April 4, 2022.
  • How are antifungal drugs normally used?
  • What are the risks associated with antifungal drugs?
  • When is a longer-term treatment considered?
  • Are there effective alternatives to antifungals?
  • Sources
• Overview: Canker sores (mouth ulcers)
  Last Update: October 17, 2022.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes and risk factors
  • Prevalence
  • Outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Canker sores (mouth ulcers): Learn More – What can you do if you have a canker sore?
  Last Update: October 17, 2022.
  • Is treatment always necessary?
  • What foods should you avoid or eat?
  • Oral hygiene: What you need to know
  • What can help relieve the symptoms?
  • What can you do if these things don't help?
  • When are tablets needed?
  • Sources
• Overview: Shoulder pain
  Created: February 13, 2020.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Prevalence and outlook
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Shoulder pain: Learn More – Shoulder pain: What helps?
  Created: February 13, 2020.
  • What can I do myself?
  • When should you see a doctor?
  • What helps relieve severe pain?
  • Can physical therapy help?
  • Why is surgery often not recommended?
  • When can shock wave therapy help?
  • What other treatments are there – and can they help?
  • Sources
• Overview: Dislocated kneecap
  Last Update: January 30, 2024.
  • Introduction
  • At a glance
  • Symptoms
  • Causes
  • Risk factors
  • Effects
  • Diagnosis
  • Treatment
  • Rehabilitation
  • Everyday life
  • Further information
  • Sources
• Dislocated kneecap: Learn More – Dislocated kneecap: When is surgery recommended?
  Last Update: January 30, 2024.
  • What is currently recommended?
  • What are the different types of surgery?