Symptoms Explained

Noticed something that doesn't feel right? These plain-language symptom guides explain what a symptom can feel like, the common and less common causes behind it, the warning signs that mean you should seek care now, how doctors investigate it, and what helps in the meantime. Every guide is medically reviewed by Dr. Baraa Alnahhal, MD, and based on published medical sources. Use them to understand your symptoms and prepare questions for your own doctor; they don't replace personal medical advice.

Browse symptom guides

Enlarged Liver: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

An enlarged liver, or hepatomegaly, is a liver larger than normal for a person's age, sex and body size. It may cause no symptoms, or belly pain, fatigue, nausea and jaundice. Causes include hepatitis, fatty liver disease, cancers and congestive heart failure. Diagnosis uses an exam, blood tests and imaging, and treatment targets the underlying condition.

Dr. Baraa Alnahhal

Oct 138 min read

Understanding Polydipsia: Causes, Symptoms, and Management

Polydipsia is extreme, persistent thirst that cannot be satisfied by drinking normal or even large amounts of fluid. Unlike ordinary thirst after exercise or salty food, it is an abnormal urge to drink that can last days or months. It is often a key sign of underlying conditions, especially diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus, and requires clinical evaluation.

Dr. Baraa Alnahhal

Oct 115 min read

Pimple on Penis: Causes, Identification, and Care

A pimple on the penis is often a blocked hair follicle or oil gland, similar to acne elsewhere on the body. It may also be a normal, harmless feature like pearly penile papules or Fordyce spots. If a bump comes with pain, a rash, or follows unprotected sexual contact, see a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.

Dr. Baraa Alnahhal

Oct 116 min read

Pitting Edema: Causes, Grading, and Management Strategies

Pitting edema is swelling that leaves a pit or dent after you press on the swollen area, caused by excess fluid trapped in tissues, usually in the legs or feet. It often points to serious problems such as heart failure or kidney disease and is graded from 1 to 4. Treatment manages the underlying condition, plus compression or elevation.

Dr. Baraa Alnahhal

Oct 117 min read

Left-Side Chest Pain: Causes and When It's an Emergency

Left-side chest pain is pain that can come from the heart, lungs, stomach, muscles or anxiety, with acid reflux the most common cause. Many causes are not dangerous, but a heart attack cannot be ruled out at home. Call emergency services if pain is new, sudden or lasts over 5 minutes, especially with shortness of breath, sweating or spreading pain.

Dr. Baraa Alnahhal

Sep 306 min read