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Dark spots on the skin: Causes and how to treat them

Dark spots on the skin: Causes and how to treat them

Dark spots on the skin, or hyperpigmentation, occur when some areas of the skin produce more melanin than usual. Melanin gives the eyes, skin, and hair their color. Dark spots on the skin are not a cause for concern and do not need treatment, though people may choose to remove them for cosmetic reasons. Depending […]

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Can you get pregnant on your period?

Can you get pregnant on your period?

Technically, people can get pregnant at any time during their menstrual cycle, though it is much less likely during their period. A person is most likely to get pregnant in the middle of their menstrual cycle. This phase is called the fertile window. The chances of becoming pregnant are much lower before and after the […]

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How can you make your period come faster?

How can you make your period come faster?

Some people want their period to arrive before an important event, deadline week, or an upcoming camping trip. There are a few things they can try to make their period come faster. There are no guaranteed ways to make a period arrive immediately or within a day or two. However, around the time their period […]

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What does science say about the effects of meditation?

What does science say about the effects of meditation?

Practicing meditation or mindfulness techniques is, at least anecdotally, supposed to smooth your way to a happier, more healthful life. But what does science say about these practices? What does research say about the effects of meditation and mindfulness? We investigate. Meditation “keeps our minds and hearts calm, peaceful, and loving, i.e., in the right […]

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Vitamin C can cut time spent in intensive care units

Vitamin C can cut time spent in intensive care units

Vitamin C could be a cost-effective way to reduce the time that patients spend in intensive care. This was the conclusion of a recent analysis of evidence from published trials. Vitamin C, which is present in oranges and other citrus fruits, may reduce the time some patients spend in the ICU. Dr. Harri Hemilä of […]

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Could probiotics evolve in the gut and cause harm?

Could probiotics evolve in the gut and cause harm?

New research in the journal Cell Host & Microbiome suggests that under certain conditions, probiotics can be harmful due to their ability to evolve once in the gut. For some people, probiotics may do more harm than good. Probiotics are live microorganisms that play a key role in intestinal function. They achieve this by helping […]

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What can cause stomach pain when breathing?

What can cause stomach pain when breathing?

Stomach pain when breathing can have several possible causes, such as a hiatal hernia, pleurisy, or acid reflux. Pain while breathing can also indicate a medical emergency. When a person breathes, the diaphragm tightens and relaxes as air moves in and out of the lungs. The diaphragm is a large, thin muscle at the bottom […]

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15 healthful gluten-free meals to try

15 healthful gluten-free meals to try

It is easier than many people might think to make delicious, healthful gluten-free meals. People with celiac disease have a serious gluten intolerance and need to eat gluten-free meals to stay well. Other people may have a nonceliac gluten sensitivity and find that cutting out gluten reduces gas and bloating. Some individuals choose to follow […]

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Using artificial intelligence to predict mortality

Using artificial intelligence to predict mortality

New research that appears in the journal PLOS ONE suggests that machine learning can be a valuable tool for predicting the risk of premature death. The scientists compared the accuracy of artificial intelligence prediction with that of statistical methods that experts are currently using in medical research. New research suggests that healthcare professionals should use […]

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Stroke vs. Mini-Stroke (TIA)

Stroke vs. Mini-Stroke (TIA)

Stroke vs. mini-stroke (TIA) quick comparison between differences Mini-stroke (transient ischemic attack, TIA) and stroke usually are caused by blockage of an artery in the brain, and less often by bleeding into the brain tissue. Strokes usually are classified as either ischemic or hemorrhagic. The causes of strokes and min-strokes (transient ischemic attack, TIA) are […]