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Over-the-Counter Guides
Expert-curated over-the-counter (OTC) guides providing comprehensive, easy-to-understand information. Access reliable, up-to-date self-care information based on the same guidelines your doctors follow.
January 22, 2025
Tingling or Cold Sensations at the Back of Your Head
Experiencing tingling, shock-like, or cold sensations at the back of your head are often caused by temporary nerve irritation, known as paresthesia, and is usually harmless. Improve posture, try gentle massage, or use a warm compress to alleviate symptoms, which typically resolve within a few days. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist beyond a week or if additional symptoms like numbness or headaches develop.
January 16, 2025
Preventing Osteoporosis: Doctor-Recommended Strategies for Restoring Bone Density
Prevent disease progression with calcium (1,000–1,200 mg/day), vitamin D (800–1,000 IU/day), and weight-bearing exercises like walking or resistance training. Prescription treatments such as bisphosphonates or SERMs are options for high-risk patients.
January 15, 2025
Acne: Best Dermatologist-Recommended Affordable Treatments
Manage acne effectively with expert-recommended over-the-counter treatments like benzoyl peroxide (2.5–10%) and adapalene (0.1–0.3%), both proven to reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and prevent new breakouts. Salicylic acid (0.5–2%) and azelaic acid (10–20%) are also effective, especially for sensitive or darker skin, targeting inflammation, blackheads, and discoloration. For best results, use consistently for 12 weeks and consult a doctor for prescription options like antibiotics or stronger retinoids if needed.
January 14, 2025
Peripheral Neuropathy: Best Over-the-Counter Pain Relief
Over-the-counter options include lidocaine cream or patches (max 4% strength), applied 12 hours on and 12 hours off, for localized pain relief. Capsaicin cream (0.075%) may also help by desensitizing nerves but can cause initial discomfort; avoid in diabetes. For moderate-to-severe cases, prescription medications like gabapentin, pregabalin, duloxetine, or amitriptyline may be necessary, along with professional evaluation for refractory cases.
January 14, 2025
Pregnancy: Diagnosis, Monitoring and Care
Take prenatal vitamins with folic acid, iron, and DHA starting 1 month before conception to support fetal development and maternal health. Use at-home tools like urine pregnancy tests for early detection, blood pressure monitors to identify potential preeclampsia, and glucose monitors if diagnosed with gestational diabetes. Regular prenatal care ensures proper monitoring, protection, and preparation for labor, with screening and management of complications like hypertension or diabetes.
January 14, 2025
Sinusitis: Doctor’s First Choice Treatments
Manage sinusitis with saline nasal irrigation (1–2 times daily) and/or intranasal corticosteroids, such as mometasone (2 sprays per nostril once daily). For short-term relief, intranasal decongestants like oxymetazoline may be used but should be limited to 3–5 days to prevent rebound congestion. Avoid antihistamines unless sinusitis is clearly allergic and systemic steroids due to limited efficacy and side effects.
January 14, 2025
Hemorrhoids: Best Over-the-Counter Initial Treatment Steps
Standard of care for hemorrhoids is a trial of conservative management. Manage with dietary fiber (20–30 g/day) and warm sitz baths, enhanced with Epsom salts for pain relief. For temporary symptom control, use lidocaine gel for pain, phenylephrine cream or suppositories for vasoconstriction, and hydrocortisone 1% cream for inflammation. Short-term laxative therapy, like polyethylene glycol (PEG), can help soften stool and promote healing.
January 14, 2025
High Blood Pressure: Best Drug-Free Solutions from the AHA
Regular at-home BP monitoring is preferred over sporadic in-office measurements. Manage hypertension with lifestyle modifications, starting with the DASH diet, which lowers BP by 10–20 mm Hg through reduced sodium and heart-healthy foods. Structured exercise (90–150 min weekly) can further reduce BP by 5 mm Hg, while limiting alcohol intake offers an additional 4 mm Hg reduction.
January 14, 2025
POTS: Heart Rhythm Society Treatment Consensus
Manage Postural Tachycardia Syndrome without medications via increased fluid intake (2–3 liters/day), higher salt consumption (3–5 grams/day with medical guidance), and compression stockings (20–30 mmHg). Gradual position changes and recumbent exercises, progressing to upright activities, improve symptoms and fitness. For severe cases, prescription options like fludrocortisone, low-dose beta-blockers, or midodrine may help, often requiring multidisciplinary care from cardiology, neurology, and physical therapy specialists.
January 14, 2025
Allergies with Itchy Eyes: Best OTC Solutions
For symptom relief, apply cold compresses and use preservative-free artificial tears as needed. If symptoms persist, antihistamine eye drops (e.g., ketotifen 0.035%) can control itching and redness. Severe or refractory cases may require prescription corticosteroid eye drops, oral antihistamines, or allergen-specific immunotherapy under medical supervision.