“What is that thing on your shoulder?” has been the question I’ve been asked most frequently for the last month. Understandably so. For the last 30 days, just barely peeking out from under the sleeve ...

Hematocrit is the percentage of red blood cells in a person‘s blood. A typical hematocrit range in adults is 36–54%. However, age, sex, and health conditions can influence hematocrit levels. Low red ...

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is a liver enzyme, and high levels can indicate liver damage. Dietary and lifestyle steps to lower ALT levels may help the liver recover. This article looks at what ALT ...

Becky Brown is a professional writer whose mission it is to empower readers. She tells stories that help people make smart, informed decisions about their health and lives. She’s covered everything ...

A sodium blood test will tell you if your blood sodium levels are normal. Blood sodium levels actually have little to do with how much sodium you consume and are tightly regulated by your body's ...

High triglyceride levels raise your risk of metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes, and diet can strongly influence these blood fats. Research shows that soy protein, fatty fish with ...

Thyroid level tests, including the TSH test, help doctors diagnose thyroid conditions, including hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Treatment may include hormones or other medications. The thyroid is ...

Sarah is an experienced writer and editor enthusiastic about helping readers live their healthiest and happiest lives. Before joining Forbes Health, Sarah worked as a writer for various digital ...

Cholesterol is measured with a simple blood test called a lipid panel or lipid profile. Lipids are fats and fatty substances, which include cholesterol, that you carry in your bloodstream to be used ...

Photo-Illustration by Chloe Dowling for TIME (Source Images: Robert Brook—Science Photo Library, Getty Images, Elena Fontana—Getty Images, nito100/Getty Images) Contributor Do you feel overwhelmed by ...