BASS Health & Medicine Blog

Not sure where to go for care? Learn the difference between urgent care, emergency rooms, and primary care—and when primary care is the right place to start.

Learn when you shouldn’t pop a blister—and when it may be safe to drain one at home. Includes step-by-step care, infection signs, and when to see a doctor.

The CDC advisory panel voted to narrow Hepatitis B vaccine recommendations for newborns. Learn what changed, why experts disagree, and what it means for parents.

Yes—cold air can absolutely make your throat sore. Learn how dry, chilly air irritates the throat, how to tell it apart from strep or the flu, and when to see a doctor.

Antibiotic resistance is rising due to overuse in humans and livestock, making infections harder to treat. Learn causes, symptoms, risks, and how to protect yourself from resistant bacteria.

New research links processed meats to higher health risks. Learn what counts as processed meat, what the evidence shows, and how to make healthier choices.

Think turkey makes you sleepy because of tryptophan? The real reason is different. Learn what actually causes post-meal fatigue and how to prevent it.

A metallic taste in your mouth can come from medications, sinus infections, vitamin deficiencies, or oral issues. Learn the common causes and when to see a doctor.

A new study connects long-term melatonin use with higher heart failure risk—but is it really dangerous? Learn what the data shows, what’s still unclear, and how to use melatonin safely.

All carbohydrates turn into sugar, not just sweets. Learn why managing carbs is key for diabetics, how carbs affect blood sugar, and tips for healthy eating.

Are artificial sweeteners really safe for diabetics, or can they raise insulin levels? Learn what science says about sugar-free options, blood-sugar control, and safe use.

Learn about the most common NBA injuries — from Achilles tears to ankle sprains — and how long players like Damian Lillard and Tyrese Haliburton take to recover.

Wondering why so many men grow mustaches in November? Learn about Movember — the global movement raising awareness for men’s mental health, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer.

Wondering why you snore after a few drinks? Learn how alcohol relaxes throat muscles, increases airway resistance, and raises your risk of sleep apnea.

Wondering if wearing a mask while sick makes recovery slower? Learn the truth about masks, throat irritation, and staying healthy during cold and flu season.

Cold, damp weather can cause sinus pressure and headaches. Learn why weather changes affect your sinuses—and how to prevent winter sinus pain in California.

Strong calves help your heart. Learn why your “second heart” in your legs supports circulation, prevents swelling, and boosts cardiovascular health.

Norovirus surges across California each winter. Learn symptoms, how it spreads, the California settings at highest risk, and when to see a doctor.

Wildfire smoke in California can be as harmful as smoking multiple cigarettes daily. Learn the health risks and how to protect yourself during fire season.

Some call for splitting measles, mumps, and rubella vaccines. But experts say the combined MMR shot is safe and effective. Learn when kids should get it.