Medical myths are widespread and can often lead to confusion about our health. From the belief that green mucus automatically means a bacterial infection to thinking that cracking your knuckles causes arthritis, many of these misconceptions persist despite scientific evidence.
Tryon Medical Partners internal medicine specialist Dr. Hughes explores some of the most common medical myths and provides the facts to set the record straight and better understand your health.
What does green mucus mean?
- Myth: If you see green mucus in a tissue, it can only mean one thing: a bacterial infection you’ll need antibiotics to treat.
- Fact: Green mucus can indicate several conditions, including a bacterial infection, viral infection, or even allergies. Green mucus does not necessarily indicate that you need antibiotics to get better.
- When to see the doctor: Dr. Hughes says that if your symptoms last longer than 7 to 10 days, if you are spiking a high fever, or if you have severe pain in your sinuses, head, or chest, it’s time to make a visit to your clinician.
“I’ve seen green mucus with COVID infections, sinus infection, and colds,” Dr. Hughes notes. “It could even indicate allergies – green mucus could be indicative of several conditions.”
Does cranberry juice help UTIs?
- Myth: Cranberry juice functions as a treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
- Fact: Studies indicate that cranberry juice does not fix UTIs. In fact, studies have shown little evidence cranberry juice will help with the UTI at all.
- When to see the doctor: Dr. Hughes advises that if you’re experiencing significant burning while you urinate, a fever, abdominal pain, back pain, or unpleasant smelling urine, you should set down the glass of cranberry juice and call your doctor’s office.
“There’s a chance that drinking cranberry juice might prevent a UTI but not enough evidence to recommend it.” Dr. Hughes says.
Does cracking your knuckles cause arthritis?
- Myth: Cracking your knuckles will cause arthritis.
- Fact: There is no evidence that cracking knuckles (or any joints, for that matter) will cause arthritis.
- When to see the doctor: If you have a significant injury, joint swelling, and persistent redness around the joints, it’s best to see a clinician. Especially if you’re having problems moving around due to joint pain.
“We don’t have any data to suggest cracking knuckles will cause any health problems,” Dr. Hughes emphasizes. “When you crack a joint, it’s just a release of gas that builds up in joints. It’s harmless.”
Does an apple a day keep the doctor away?
- Myth: Eating an apple every day will keep you in particularly good health.
- Fact: Apples are a great source of fiber, various vitamins, and generally a wonderful food to include in your day-to-day diet.
- When to see the doctor: If you’re experiencing substantial weight loss or gain, consistent fatigue, or serious changes in mood, consult your clinician about how your nutrition may be playing a role in these symptoms.
“Apples are a nutritious snack, but won’t keep the doctor away on their own,” Dr. Hughes mentions. “Generally, I recommend a Mediterranean diet high in nuts, seeds, fruits, lean meats, and healthy oils.”
Can cold weather make you sick?
- Myth: Spending time in cold weather can make you sick.
- Fact: Going out in cold weather will not make you sick. Certain respiratory illnesses are more prevalent during cold months of the year because people are inside more often and in close contact with others. This allows illnesses like the flu, COVID-19, and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) to spread more easily.
- When to see the doctor: If you’re experiencing shortness of breath, a persistent higher fever, or symptoms in general that last longer than 7 to 10 days, it’s best to see a medical professional for a check-up.
“Going outside in the cold is not going to make you sick on its own,” Dr. Hughes says. “In fact, you’re more likely to get sick indoors where it’s warmer!”
Still have an unanswered common medical question? Use MedChat or call Tryon Medical Partners to see your clinician for your annual appointment and get the answers you’re looking for.