Health Conditions
Feel Well
Welcome to Feel Well, an empathetic, trustworthy place to get practical, conversational advice about health conditions. Our content is grounded in science: Authoritative medical experts, who have a deep well of knowledge of the topic at hand, weigh in on every story. As an added layer of expertise, our Medical Advisory Board, a dedicated team of health care professionals, also reviews content for accuracy. Whenever possible, we elevate the voices of real people living with health conditions. Whether you have migraine, psoriasis, heart failure, eczema, diabetes, or any other health condition, you can rely on SELF for positive, inclusive, authoritative, and genuinely helpful tips.
What Does Competing With COVID Do to an Athlete’s Body?
Pushing through to win a medal may feel worth it in the moment. But there are real risks.
3 Ways to Unclog a Miserably Stuffy Nose
If allergies, a cold, or something else has you blocked, don’t just try to blow through it.
Here’s How the Flu Can Lead to Serious Heart Problems
If you have certain risk factors, you might want to be extra careful about this virus.
Here’s Why We Don’t Say Someone ‘Has a Migraine’
Language matters when it comes to chronic conditions.
What You Really Need to Know About the RSV Vaccine for Fall 2024
If you’re pregnant, have a baby, or are 60+, you should be paying attention to this virus.
Condition Spotlight
RSV
This virus sometimes seems like a cold, but it can get bad—fast—for a lot of people.Cold and Flu
Protect yourself from these common respiratory viruses.COVID-19
Here’s what we’ve learned about SARS-CoV-2, the novel coronavirus.Long COVID
These post-viral symptoms are still a puzzle, but we know more about the pieces.Migraine
Migraine pain can include more than just a throbbing headache.
MEDICAL ADVISORY BOARD
A Doctor Told Me the Whooshing in My Ear Would Just Go Away. I Actually Had a Brain Tumor
“I was told to use Flonase.”
The Best Way to Treat Dry Mouth, No Matter the Cause
The pesky problem can oftentimes be simple to solve.
Here’s How to Actually Treat a Sunburn
From cold compresses to creams, some remedies are better than others.
Exclusive
Venus Williams Opens Up About Her 30-Year Fibroids Journey
The tennis star reveals she was in excruciating pain during some of her most iconic matches.
If You Have Ulcerative Colitis, You May Want to Watch Out for This Type of Fiber
It can trigger symptoms and make flare-ups harder to handle.
Is Your Constant Fatigue Actually a Sign of This Common Sleep Disorder?
Women often chalk it up to stress, hormones, or not sleeping well—but that might not be the whole story.
Why Do I Feel Ridiculously Tired During My Period?
Turns out, there are plenty of things that can zap your energy levels during menstruation.
Yes, Perimenopause Might Be Shrinking Your Labia
These vulvovaginal changes can start any time during perimenopause or menopause.
What Might Be Going On If Rest Makes Your Back Pain Worse
Sometimes a little wiggle or two (or three) is the only fix for a painful flare-up.
10 Signs of a Ministroke That You Really Shouldn’t Ignore—Especially as a Woman
Despite its nickname, a transient ischemic attack is serious and underdiagnosed in this group.
Here’s What PCOS Acne Looks Like—and How to Treat It
You’re not imagining it: These pimples are a special kind of stubborn.
5 Diabetes-Friendly Breakfasts That Will Keep You Satisfied Until Lunch
Skip the blood sugar spikes with these recipes created by a registered dietitian.
7 Belly Button Infections You Can Get—and What to Do if You Have One
Read on for the ins and outs.
3 Women on the Reality of Dating With Ulcerative Colitis
“I was on the Tube and was suddenly like, ‘I’m going to throw up and poop myself.’”
5 Low-Sugar Diabetes-Friendly Desserts You’ll Want to Make on Repeat
Created by a registered dietitian, these sweet treats keep nutritious ingredients front and center.
We Need to Talk About Perimenopause and Eating Disorders
No, you’re never “too old” to develop one. Here’s why.
I’m a Personal Trainer, and These Are the Exercises That Help Me Manage My Chronic Back Pain
I have axial spondyloarthritis, a chronic form of arthritis, and these stretches and strength moves make a big difference.
8 Reasons Your Vagina Burns—and How to Get Relief
Surprisingly, it isn’t always a sign of infection.
7 Ways to Protect Your Brain Health as You Age
You’re probably (hopefully?) doing a few of these things already.
The Emotional Toll of Chronic Back Pain
As four women explain, living with ongoing discomfort is so much more than a physical burden.
7 Things That Can Cause Heavy Bleeding During Your Period
If you’re going through pads like they’re Kleenex, this might be why.
I Had Shingles During Pregnancy. It Taught Me an Important Lesson in Letting Go
Summer House alum Ashley McAtee shares how the illness was a “really big wake-up call.”
Do Postpartum Belly Bands and Wraps Actually Help With Core Recovery?
Experts break down what these products can—and can’t—do for you after giving birth.
Wondering If It’s Time to Stop Taking Your Antidepressant? Read This First
A few signs can help you determine if you’re ready to start the taper.
4 Signs Your Bad Memory Could Be Linked to Something Serious
There’s a reason you’re so scatterbrained when you’re stressed.