If you’ve ever gone down the “Dr. Google” rabbit hole, you know that searching your symptoms at 2 a.m. can turn a headache into a brain tumor in three clicks.
But don't panic. UTMB Health primary care providers help patients trade online guesswork for real medical guidance, offering trusted answers, personalized care, and a long-term partner in staying healthy — even (or especially) when it comes to some of the most often asked health-related questions on Google.
For this post, we tracked down the top 10 health questions people Google in Texas and asked Family Nurse Practitioner Alma Chavez, who sees patients at UTMB Pediatric and Adult Primary Care in Texas City, to answer them.
Top 10 health questions people Google in Texas
- Why do my hands sweat? Hands sweat when they get too hot. It can also occur from other causes such as stress, medication, and other medical conditions such as thyroid problems or diabetes. If your sweaty hands become bothersome, consult with your primary care provider.
- Is deli meat bad for you? Deli meat is high in preservatives and should be eaten in moderation. It has been linked to heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
- Why do I keep sneezing so much? Sneezing is a reflex to clear irritants form the nose. It be caused by allergies or viruses.
- What are allergies? Allergies cause itchy eyes, nose, throat, and palate. They can also cause watery eyes, coughs, and a runny or stuffy nose. Allergies are triggered by indoor and outdoor allergens such as pollen, dust mites, pet dander, and mold.
- What is cedar fever? Cedar fever is an allergic reaction to the pollen released from the mountain cedar trees, which are common in central Texas. The season usually last from November to February. Symptoms include a low-grade fever, itchy eyes, runny nose, stuffy nose, cough, and fatigue. Symptoms may develop gradually and last for months. Treatment includes over-the-counter allergy medication. If symptoms do not improve or become worrisome, consult your primary care provider.
- How much protein do we need a day? The recommended dietary allowance for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body weight, or 0.36 grams per pound. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend focusing on healthy, protein-rich foods rather than specific daily amounts. If you have questions or concerns, consult your primary care provider.
- How do you cure a cold? There is no cure for a cold. Colds are caused by viruses. Recommended treatment includes rest, plenty of warm fluids, a cool-mist humidifier, and honey. Do not give honey to children younger than 1 year old.
- Can allergies make you tired? Yes, allergies can cause fatigue, often due to poor sleep. Treatment may include rinsing the nose with normal saline, using nasal sprays, or taking over-the-counter allergy medications. If symptoms continue, consult your primary care provider.
- Is it bad to eat cheese before bed? Eating cheese before bed is generally not harmful unless you are lactose intolerant, which can cause gas, stomach pain, or diarrhea.
- What is a juice cleanse? A juice cleanse is a liquid diet made from fruit juices that typicaly lasts from one day to a week. People use it to detox or lose weight. However, cleanses are not necessary because the liver and the kidneys already remove toxins from the body. Any weight reduction is usually temporary and due to water loss.