Reviewed by Dr. Badal Kalamkar, MD on Jan. 02, 2026
Health issues are among the most common factors why people use the internet. A study from the National Institute of Health (NIH) states that it’s common for individuals to try self-diagnosing online before heading to the doctor.
As the year comes to a close, we’re taking a look at the most common health questions Americans searched for in 2025.
According to Google search trends, people across the United States were looking for answers to a wide range of health concerns, from everyday illnesses like the flu to chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and kidney health.
Here are the top ten most Googled or searched health questions of 2025:
What Are the Symptoms of COVID-19 and the Flu?
One of the most common health concerns in 2025 has been distinguishing between the symptoms of COVID-19 and the flu. Both viruses can cause respiratory illness, but symptoms may overlap.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), common symptoms of COVID-19 include: fever, cough, fatigue, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, headache, body ache, nausea or diarrhea, and loss of taste or smell. Severe cases can lead to difficulty breathing and other complications.
On the other hand, CDC explains that Flu (Influenza) symptoms include sudden onset of fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, sore throat, and fatigue. The flu is generally seasonal, whereas COVID-19 patterns can vary throughout the year.
Because these illnesses share many signs, testing and clinical evaluation are important for accurate diagnosis and appropriate care.
How Can I Lower My Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Levels?
High blood pressure (hypertension) and high cholesterol are major risk factors for heart disease and stroke. MedlinePlus noted that high blood pressure usually does not have symptoms. To determine if you have hypertension, schedule regular blood pressure checks with your healthcare provider.
The American Heart Association has revealed that adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can help lower your risk of high blood glucose (blood sugar) and high cholesterol. Some ways to improve your blood pressure include:
- Eat a well-balanced diet
- Limit or avoid alcohol intake
- Enjoy regular physical activity
- Manage your stress
- Work with your health care provider
How Can I Lower My A1C and Better Manage Diabetes?
A1C is a blood test that reflects your average blood glucose (sugar) over the past three months. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), for most adults with diabetes, an A1C level below 7% is a common goal; however, your provider may set a personalized target based on your overall health.
CDC recommends ways to lower A1C and manage diabetes:
- Regular glucose monitoring enables you and your care team to track trends and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
- Healthy eating and physical activity can improve blood sugar control
- Attend diabetes self-management education (DSME) programs to develop skills for long-term diabetes control.
- Take medications as prescribed; never discontinue them without consulting your healthcare provider.
Working collaboratively with your healthcare provider ensures a tailored plan that fits your lifestyle and medical needs.
Why am I always feeling Exhausted?
If you’re asking yourself, “Why am I always tired?”, it’s often your body’s way of saying something is off. MedlinePlus notes that this exhaustion often stems from:
- Sleep: Not getting enough hours of sleep or experiencing poor sleep quality.
- Mental Health: Stress, anxiety, or feeling low can drain your energy.
- Lifestyle: Working too hard, not eating well, or lack of downtime.
- Medical Issues: Health conditions that a doctor can help find.
If you’ve felt this way for several weeks or it’s stopping you from doing your daily tasks, it is a good idea to see a healthcare provider.
Do I have Cancer?
It is natural to worry when you notice symptoms such as unexpected weight loss or unusual pains. While these can be signs of cancer, they are much more likely to be caused by less serious, treatable problems.
The best way to ease your mind is to discuss any sudden changes with a healthcare provider, who can recommend screening tests and evaluations based on your personal risk factors, such as age, family history, and lifestyle.
How much water should I drink each day?
You’ve probably heard the “eight glasses a day” guideline, and while that can be a helpful baseline, actual fluid needs vary.
According to Healthline, men should consume approximately 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of total fluids per day, and women should consume approximately 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of total fluids per day 7 liters) For women is a general recommendation.
These amounts include all fluids you consume, from water and beverages to food and drinks. If you’re physically active, in hot weather, or ill with fever or vomiting, your needs may be higher.
Plain water is a simple, calorie-free way to stay hydrated, but all fluids contribute to your total daily intake.
Are my anxiety or ADHD symptoms normal?
Concerns about mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions are among the most searched topics online. Anxiety and ADHD can share overlapping symptoms like difficulty concentrating or feeling overwhelmed, but they are distinct conditions.
According to the CDC, ADHD is marked by ongoing patterns of inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with daily life, while the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) explains that anxiety may involve excessive worry, restlessness, irritability, and physical symptoms like increased heart rate.
Because many mental health and physical conditions can mimic each other, a thorough evaluation by a clinician is the best way to understand what you’re experiencing and determine if treatment or support is appropriate.
How do I know which health advice I can trust?
Your primary care provider should always be your first and most trusted source for health information, as they understand your medical history and can give guidance tailored specifically to you.
When looking for information online, use trusted, evidence-based sources such as the CDC, NCBI, American Heart Association, MedlinePlus, and the World Health Organization (WHO). Make sure the information is based on scientific research, not opinions, trends, or fear-based messaging.
Ultimately, your healthcare provider, like Zenith Urgent & Primary Care in Marlborough, is an essential resource for interpreting online information and applying it to your unique health situation.
At Zenith Primary & Urgent Care in Marlborough, we are ready to make it easy for you to get the care you need when symptoms arise.
Zenith Urgent Care offers same-day and next-day appointments. Our clinic is open daily from 8 AM until late, including the weekends, making it perfect for after-work, evening, and weekend visits. Patients can also simply walk in. Whether you need physical lab testing, medication management, or quick relief from sudden or worse symptoms.
Zenith Primary Care is accepting new patients from Marlborough, Ashland, Berlin, Bolton, Framingham, Hopkinton, Hudson, Maynard, Northborough, Southborough, Stow, Sudbury, Wayland, and Westborough.
Call 627-500-7933 or book online here at Zenith Primary & Urgent Care to schedule your appointment.
