Video: What you should know about germs

Your immune system constantly defends you from harmful germs like bacteria and viruses, but your body also hosts trillions of helpful microbes—your microbiome—that live on your skin, in your gut, and elsewhere. These “good” germs help digest food, make vitamins, protect you from harmful invaders, and help regulate inflammation.

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Treatments for Neurodermatitis

I have been suffering from a skin rash for about 10 years. A large patch of my skin constantly itches, and the skin is thick and feels like leather. I have gone through almost every ointment on the market, and none works. I went to a new doctor and he said that my rash was neurodermatitis, and the best treatment would be an antidepressant to stop the scratching. I am a little skeptical. Have you ever heard of using a mood-altering medication to treat a skin rash?

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Side Effects of Erectile Dysfunction Medications

Are all erectile dysfunction medications the same and have the same side effects? My husband says they are and that all of them will give you headaches, stomach upset, and blurred vision. I think they are like any other medications — you might have to try a few before you find the right one for you. What do you think?

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Side Effects of Zoloft Versus Generic Sertraline

Is there a difference between the prescription Zoloft and the generic version? I started taking Zoloft in 1994, but switched to the generic version over a year ago because it's free with my prescription coverage. I think I've gained weight since the switch. Is it possible that the generic version causes me to gain weight when Zoloft didn't?

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