Health Information and Medical Advice

Is your erection less firm than before, does it fade during intimacy, or fail to happen when you want it to? These experiences can feel difficult to discuss. But they are health concerns you can talk about with a doctor just as openly as blood pressure or sleep problems. An occasional difficulty after a stressful…

Do your calves start to ache or cramp when you walk, so you have to stop — yet after a few minutes of rest you can carry on? If this keeps happening, don’t automatically put it down to age, a lack of magnesium or being out of shape. One possible cause is reduced blood supply…

Your child takes a long time to fall asleep, your baby wakes frequently at night, or daytime naps happen at different times each day — these situations are familiar to many families. Parents often wonder whether their child gets enough sleep, when to introduce a more predictable routine, and when to consult a pediatrician. Sleep…

Hot flashes in the middle of a working day, night sweats, restless sleep, vaginal dryness: menopausal symptoms can make everyday life much harder. Menopause is a natural stage of life, but you do not have to put up with these symptoms. They can be treated, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is one of the options.…

You have a date for surgery, but are unsure which blood tests to arrange or whether you need an electrocardiogram (ECG). There is no single preoperative test list for everyone. The requirements depend on the procedure, your health, the planned anaesthesia and the operating facility’s instructions. Why are tests performed before surgery? Tests can help…

Healthcare in Latvia: what newcomers need to know Moving to Latvia to work, study or start a new chapter comes with many practical questions. One of the most important is what to do if you need medical care before you have fully understood the local healthcare system. Latvia has both state-funded and private healthcare services.…

Laparoscopy is a minimally invasive surgical technique that allows a surgeon to examine and operate on organs inside the abdomen or pelvis through small incisions with the assistance of a camera. The incisions are generally smaller than those used for traditional open surgery. However, laparoscopy is still a surgical procedure that requires anaesthesia, preparation and…

Back pain is extremely common. In most cases, it is associated with muscle strain, prolonged sitting, poor posture or a mechanical problem affecting the spine. However, persistent pain in the lower back and sacral region can sometimes indicate a chronic inflammatory condition called ankylosing spondylitis. Ankylosing spondylitis commonly begins during adolescence or early adulthood. Its…

Circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin. It may be considered when a tight foreskin causes pain, makes hygiene difficult or leads to recurrent inflammation. Some men seek medical advice only when the discomfort begins to interfere with erections or sexual activity, or when the foreskin can no longer be pulled back over the…

Anatomical changes in the intimate area can remain unnoticed until they cause discomfort or interfere with everyday activities. One of the more common but less frequently discussed gynaecological conditions is a Bartholin gland cyst. According to international medical data and clinical observations, approximately 2% of women develop a Bartholin gland cyst during their lifetime. Although…

C-reactive protein (CRP) is a fundamental marker in modern laboratory diagnostics. If you are looking for answers as to why this indicator spikes after recovering from infections or how it reacts to chronic stress, it is essential to understand its biological nature rather than just looking at the numbers on your test results. What is…

Gynecological health is directly linked to a woman’s quality of life, reproductive functions, and overall peace of mind. One of the most common pathologies encountered by women at various stages of life is a uterine polyp (either an endometrial or cervical polyp). Although the vast majority of these growths are benign, the symptoms they cause…

Back pain, especially when radiating to the legs (sciatica), can become an insurmountable obstacle to daily activities Epidural steroid injections (ESI), commonly known as a “back blockade,” are often presented as a “quick fix.” However, from a clinical research perspective, the picture is much more nuanced. In this article, we analyze whether this procedure truly…

The consequences of alcohol consumption are not just temporary discomfort; they represent a complex reaction of body systems to toxic substances. When we look for a solution to the term “hangover,” we are actually searching for a way to stop the oxidative stress and electrolyte imbalance caused by ethanol metabolism. In this article, we will…

Cholesterol is often perceived as the “classic villain,” yet modern cardiology and international research (e.g., European Society of Cardiology guidelines) offer a more nuanced perspective. Understanding how cholesterol affects vascular health is the first step toward preventing cardiovascular diseases. What is cholesterol? Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance (lipid) produced by the liver and obtained…

Pregnancy brings many physical and emotional changes. Some women notice symptoms before their period is due, while others experience almost no early signs. Every pregnancy is different, and symptoms alone cannot confirm whether you are pregnant. A home pregnancy test can provide an initial answer. Once pregnancy is confirmed, it is advisable to arrange an…

Human papillomavirus, usually called HPV, is a very common group of viruses affecting the skin and mucous membranes. Most sexually active people are exposed to HPV at some point in their lives, often without knowing it because the infection usually causes no symptoms. In most cases, the immune system clears the infection naturally within one…

Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide. It can cause persistent fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, reduced concentration and other symptoms that affect everyday life. However, treatment should not focus only on restoring iron levels. It is also important to determine why the deficiency developed. Possible causes include blood loss, increased…

Menopause is a natural stage of life, but the transition can affect sleep, mood, concentration, sexual health and everyday wellbeing. Some women experience only mild changes, while others develop hot flushes, night sweats, irregular bleeding or vaginal and urinary symptoms that significantly reduce their quality of life. These symptoms do not simply have to be…

A meniscus tear is a serious knee joint injury that can significantly impact quality of life. The meniscus itself rarely heals on its own, making timely diagnosis and treatment essential. Arthroscopy is an effective and safe method that allows for the preservation or restoration of meniscus function. While rehabilitation ensures full recovery, the traumatologist plays…

Vaginal dryness is common, but it should not be dismissed as something a woman simply has to tolerate. It can cause burning, irritation, pain during sexual intercourse and urinary symptoms, affecting sleep, relationships and quality of life. Menopause is a frequent cause, but vaginal dryness can occur at any age—including during breastfeeding, while taking certain…

Breastfeeding is the most natural and healthiest way to ensure a child’s development and health. If difficulties arise, one should not hesitate to seek help—a breastfeeding consultation under a pediatrician’s supervision will help solve problems and provide support for both mother and child. Why is breastfeeding consultation important? Breastfeeding is one of the most essential…

Irregular periods: causes, diagnosis and treatment What are irregular periods? A normal menstrual cycle lasts 21–35 days, with bleeding for 3–7 days. If cycles are shorter, longer, or bleeding occurs unpredictably, this is considered irregular menstruation. It is common and may be linked to physiological changes or health conditions. When are periods considered irregular? Possible…

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a nail presses into or grows into the surrounding skin. It most often affects the big toe and can cause pain, swelling and redness, especially when walking or wearing shoes. If the problem keeps returning, becomes increasingly painful or produces discharge, a medical assessment is advisable. At…

Traveling abroad is often associated with new experiences, exploring cultures, and relaxation. However, to avoid unpleasant surprises, it is important to take care of your health in advance. One of the most important preventive measures is vaccination. Travel vaccination is not only individual protection against infectious diseases but also a matter of public health safety.…

Sudden pain, swelling and warmth in your big toe or another joint may be symptoms of gout. At Republikas laukuma klīnika in central Riga, Latvia, adults can consult Dr. Aleksandra Bukina, an English-speaking rheumatologist, about suspected gout, recurring attacks and long-term treatment. Whether you live in Latvia or are visiting Riga, contact the clinic to…

When patients first hear about ALAT and ASAT tests, the question often arises: what are they, and why are they important? Often, these indicators help detect serious liver diseases before symptoms appear. Elevated liver enzymes are a signal that further examination is needed. Sometimes the reason is simple and easily resolved (e.g., changing medication or…

Republikas laukuma klīnika provides medical termination of pregnancy up to 7 weeks of pregnancy. The procedure is carried out under the supervision of a gynaecologist after confirming the duration and location of the pregnancy. Before a medical abortion, the doctor assesses your health, performs or arranges the necessary examinations and explains how the medication works,…

Hyaluronic Acid and PRP Injections in Gynecology Gynecological hyaluronic acid and PRP injections have become an important tool in modern medicine for addressing various women’s health issues. These minimally invasive procedures offer an alternative to traditional treatments and can significantly improve quality of life. Hyaluronic acid and PRP injections effectively help treat vaginal dryness, reduce…

Chronic fatigue is more than just feeling sleepy after a long day—it is a persistent, debilitating lack of energy that doesn’t improve with rest. While fatigue can stem from various lifestyle and medical factors, one of the most clinically prevalent yet overlooked biological causes is iron deficiency, with or without anemia. How low iron drains…

Snoring and sleep spnea: more than just nighttime noise Snoring is often perceived as a harmless sleep disturbance or even a comical phenomenon, but it can be an early sign of a serious health issue — obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). What causes snoring? Snoring occurs when airflow through the upper airways becomes obstructed, usually due…

Glutathione is a tripeptide composed of three amino acids: glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. It is found in many tissues at relatively high concentrations within cells, similar to levels of glucose, potassium, and cholesterol. It plays a vital role in several key physiological processes: Because intracellular glutathione concentrations are high, it functions as the body’s…

Have you ever felt that your stomach or intestines are sending signals that are impossible to ignore? In this article, I will explain what a colonoscopy is, why it is important, how to prepare for it, and what to expect. The goal is to provide clear, understandable, and practical information to help you make an…

Nowadays, more and more patients are looking for effective and safe methods to reduce joint pain and improve quality of life while avoiding aggressive surgeries. One of the most modern options is PRP injections in the joints – Platelet-Rich Plasma therapy, also available at “Republikas laukuma klīnika”. This method is particularly relevant for those with…

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, produced mainly in the testicles. It plays a critical role in maintaining muscle and bone mass, regulating libido, supporting mood, and ensuring sustained energy levels. While women also produce testosterone, they do so in much smaller amounts; nevertheless, it remains essential for their overall physiological health. What is…