Currently, 2.7 million Americans live with atrial fibrillation (AFib), a condition characterized by an irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications. The American Heart Association … [Read more...]
Wellness/Prevention
Stroke Risks for Kids
Stroke Risks for Kids. The National Stroke Association reports that stroke remains among the top ten causes of death in children. The following are risk factors for stroke among youths: heart defects present at birth, sickle-cell disease, immune … [Read more...]
Vitamin D May Slow Diabetes Progression
In a study involving 162 patients with both prediabetes and vitamin D deficiency, those who took a high dose vitamin D supplement for six months experienced improved insulin sensitivity that significantly reduced their risk for developing type 2 … [Read more...]
Evade the Appearance of Aging
Wrinkles are a part of aging, but you can take steps you can take to keep your skin smoother for longer. To accomplish this, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following: use sunscreen daily on all exposed skin; avoid tanning; use a … [Read more...]
Skin Patch Might Tell if You’ve Been in the Sun Too Long
Scientists from Northwestern University report that individuals may soon be able to wear a small battery-free patch that can alert them when they are approaching an unsafe level of ultraviolet (UV) ray exposure. Researcher Dr. Steve (Shuai) Xu notes, … [Read more...]
Healthier Lifestyle Improves Breast Cancer Survival Chances
Among a group of 2,300 early stage breast cancer patients, those who most closely adhered to advice regarding eating a healthier diet and becoming more physically active were more likely to survive the disease. San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium, … [Read more...]
Child Fever Guidelines
Fever is generally not a concern, but some cases do require medical attention. The Nemours Foundation recommends that you seek immediate care if your child shows the following behaviors or symptoms: won't stop crying; exhibits extreme irritability or … [Read more...]
Prevent Swollen Gums
Unhealthy gums are often swollen, red, and painful. Triggers for swollen gums usually include poor dental care, malnutrition, poorly fitted dentures, or side effects of a medication. To prevent swollen gums, the National Library of Medicine … [Read more...]
Importance of Ear Wax
Ear wax is naturally produced in the ear canal. Over time, it gradually travels to the opening of the ear, where it falls out or is removed when bathing. For some individuals, ear wax can build up in the ear, impairing hearing and requiring removal … [Read more...]
Getting Adequate Vitamin D
Vitamin D is vital for strong bones and a healthy immune system. The Arthritis Foundation offers the following suggestions for boosting one’s vitamin D levels: get direct sunlight without sunscreen for just 10 to 15 minutes every other day; eat 3 … [Read more...]
Don’t Smoke!
As if there were not already enough reasons to stop smoking or never start in the first place, new research indicates that smokers with diabetes have an elevated risk for foot ulcers and more severe foot ulcers should they occur. Journal of Diabetes … [Read more...]
Should Pregnant Women Take a Calcium Supplement?
Following a review of data from 27 published studies, researchers conclude that women who take a calcium supplement during their pregnancy may have a reduced risk for pre-eclampsia and preterm birth, particularly if they also consume a low-calcium … [Read more...]
Dealing with Poison Ivy
If you touch or even get near poison ivy, you can develop an itchy, blistering rash within 72 hours. Though the rash usually goes away after a short time, some people can have serious reactions that require a trip to the doctor. To help manage a … [Read more...]
Coping with Cancer
The American Cancer Society offers the following advice for individuals who have received a cancer diagnosis: become informed about your cancer and how you can improve your health; face your fears, but don't dwell on them; express your feelings to a … [Read more...]