common cold

A viral video shows an Australian woman calmly removing two large pythons from her ceiling. While snakes seeking shelter in homes is common in Australia, experts advise against handling them due to potential attacks, even though pythons are non-venomous.

Health Experts Warn Against Illnesses

Symptoms Range From Excessive Panting, Vomiting And Lethargy To Sudden Collapse And Seizure-Like Episodes Linked To Heat Stress, Say Vets

Diphtheria, a disease long considered history, is resurfacing in Australia, with cases concentrated in the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Genomic links reveal a single cluster spreading across states. While skin infections are common, dangerous respiratory diphtheria also poses a threat. Vaccination remains the primary defense against this preventable illness.

A tiny pinky bone unearthed in Siberia's Denisova Cave revealed a previously unknown human species, the Denisovans. This discovery revolutionised our understanding of human evolution, showing coexistence rather than just replacement. Genetic analysis confirmed Denisovans interbred with migrating modern humans, leaving traces in the DNA of people in Southeast Asia and Oceania today.

Napoleon Bonaparte's extreme daily use of Eau de Cologne, consuming vast quantities, has sparked a new theory about his death. Scientists suggest the concentrated essential oils in his beloved fragrance may have disrupted his hormones, contributing to his declining health and stomach cancer. This intriguing idea contrasts with his perfume's potential battlefield antiseptic benefits.

Over-confidence is a common flaw in the character of those who are lacking in humility. The virtue of modesty makes you a realist – a person who is cut down to size.

World Thyroid Day on May 25th highlights the crucial role of this gland in metabolism. Experts emphasize nutrition's impact, recommending Mediterranean and Paleo diets for hypothyroidism while cautioning against excessive iodine. Maintaining balanced intake of selenium, zinc, and essential vitamins like D and B12 is vital for thyroid health. Managing diet can significantly improve thyroid function.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor humorously defended the South Indian dish idli after a viral post compared it to rasgulla dipped in sugar syrup. Tharoor explained the distinct culinary and biological differences, calling idli a "culinary engineering marvel" and a "savoury monolith of South Indian culinary genius."

Hill stations are experiencing unprecedented heatwaves, with Ooty and Yercaud recording significantly higher temperatures. Global warming, erratic rainfall, and a surge in tourism are straining these fragile ecosystems. Rising temperatures are altering ecosystems, accelerating pest cycles, and leading to severe traffic congestion and pollution from vehicular emissions.

Pope Leo XIV unveiled his encyclical, “Magnifica Humanitas,” addressing human dignity in the AI era. This historic document, presented with an AI pioneer, marks the Catholic Church's continued engagement with contemporary challenges through its ancient tradition of papal letters. The encyclical joins a lineage of influential papal teachings on critical social issues.

Britain is experiencing its hottest weather of 2026, with temperatures soaring across England and parts of the country potentially reaching 35C. Official heatwave conditions have been declared in southern and eastern England, prompting amber heat-health alerts due to the extreme heat and potential strain on services.

Every week, TOI+ subscribers ask questions about their health and India’s top doctors reply with clear, evidence-based guidance. From heart disease to diabetes, cancer to mental health, Hello, Doctor connects you directly with experts you can trust

Every week, TOI+ subscribers ask questions about their health and India’s top doctors reply with clear, evidence-based guidance. From heart disease to diabetes, cancer to mental health, Hello, Doctor connects you directly with experts you can trust

Thyroid dysfunction is increasingly affecting young professionals, teenagers, and men in India, moving beyond its old stereotype. Symptoms like persistent fatigue, anxiety, and weight fluctuations are often mistaken for stress or aging. Experts highlight the need for broader awareness as the condition impacts various age groups and genders, demanding timely diagnosis and holistic management.