The state of the evidence

We look for the best health research. We ask patients about their experiences. And we regularly update our information.

Latest Topic

Acute middle ear infections

If a child cries a lot, has a fever and cannot sleep, parents might understandably be worried that it is something serious. Acute middle ear infections are often at the root of these symptoms. But this kind of infection is usually no cause for concern. This week we explain why that is, and why antibiotics are often not needed.

Things that can help

“That was my last cigarette!” – Many people decide to quit smoking after a bad cold or when making their New Year’s resolutions. But it is not always easy to actually stop smoking and stay a non-smoker. People often have to try several times before they succeed. Take a look at our feature to find out what products and other things can help people quit smoking.

Good to know

We all know what it is like to have a sore throat, but if you also have difficulty swallowing, fever and a yellowish coating on your tonsils, it could be acute tonsillitis. Tonsillitis can occur several times a year, and it sometimes becomes chronic. Our feature describes the usual course of this infection, what medications can be used, and when surgery might be an option.

Feature

Find out what exactly happens during ovulation and menstruation, how hormonal contraceptives work and whether the contraceptive pill affects women's weight.

Did you know . . .

… that things like red wine, cheese and chocolate are thought to bring on migraines? Keeping a diary for a few weeks or months can help people find out what might be triggering their migraines. We have prepared a diary which you can print out here: