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Peanuts have a strong nutritional profile. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and many key vitamins and minerals. Peanuts come in many forms, including roasted, salted, chocolate-coated, and as peanut butter. Different types have different nutritional profiles and various health benefits. Along with their healthful nutritional profile, peanuts are a calorie-rich food, so they are most healthful when enjoyed in moderation. In this article, we provide the nutritional profile of peanuts, their health benefits, and how different types compare. Nutritional breakdown Peanuts are most healthful when they are in their raw form. Peanuts are an especially good source of healthful fats, protein, and fiber. They also contain plenty of potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, and B vitamins. Despite being high in calories, peanuts are nutrient-rich and low in carbohydrates. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 100 grams of raw peanuts contain 567 calories and the following nutrients in grams (g), milligrams (mg), or micrograms (mcg): macronutrients proteincarbohydratefibersugars 25.8 g16.13 g8.5 g4.72 g fats monounsaturated fatspolyunsaturated fatssaturated fats 24.43 g15.56 g6.28 g minerals potassiumphosphorousmagnesiumcalciumsodiumironzinc 705 mg376 mg168 mg92 mg18 mg4.58 mg3.27 mg vitamins vitamin B-3 (niacin)vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)vitamin B-1 (thiamine)vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine)riboflavin (vitamin B-2)folate (vitamin B-9) 12.07 […]
Leucine, an amino acid that the body needs for making protein, appears to have a surprising role in the development of resistance to tamoxifen in breast cancer that tests positive for the estrogen receptor. New research in cell cultures finds that lower levels of dietary leucine may improve the effectiveness of cancer drugs. Scientists from Harvard Medical School, in Boston, MA, recently made this “unexpected” discovery about estrogen receptor-positive (ER-positive) breast cancer in a study conducted with colleagues from other research centers. In laboratory experiments, they also found that the cell surface protein SLC7A5, which helps cells to take in leucine, influences the response of ER-positive breast cancer cells to tamoxifen. The study authors note, in a paper published in Nature, that “SLC7A5 was necessary and sufficient to confer resistance to tamoxifen treatment” and suggest that the protein could be a potential target for “overcoming resistance” to tamoxifen in ER-positive breast cancer. In around three-quarters of breast cancers, the hormone estrogen helps the tumors grow and spread. This is because the cancer cells, like healthy breast cells, have estrogen receptors that allow them to receive growth signals from the hormone. Doctors commonly treat ER-positive breast cancer with the drug tamoxifen […]
New research suggests that transcranial magnetic stimulation could reverse age-related memory loss. In fact, the technique restored the memory of senior participants to the level of young adults. Scientists may soon be able to reverse age-related memory decline in seniors. It is a known fact that a person’s memory tends to decline with age. Between 15 and 20 percent of people over the age of 65 years have mild cognitive impairment (MCI) — a condition that is no cause for concern on its own but that raises the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Misplacing things once in a while or having trouble finding one’s words can be a natural part of the aging process. However, researchers may now have found a way to reverse this form of age-related memory loss. Joel Voss, who is an associate professor at the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, IL, is the lead investigator of the new study. Voss and his team used a noninvasive form of brain stimulation called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to improve memory in older adults. The researchers published their findings in the journal Neurology. Using TMS to target the hippocampus TMS works by applying magnetic fields to specific […]
Having type 2 diabetes should not mean having to avoid delicious food. Vegetables should be a central part of the diet for people with type 2 diabetes and can be delicious and filling. No food item is strictly forbidden for people with type 2 diabetes. Healthful eating for people with diabetes is all about controlling portion size and preparing a careful balance of nutrients. The best vegetables for type 2 diabetes are low on the glycemic index (GI) scale, rich in fiber, or high in nitrates that reduce blood pressure. In this article, we look at the best vegetables for people with type 2 diabetes. We also explain why vegetables are so important for people who are monitoring blood sugar, and we offer a range of tasty meal ideas. Best vegetables for type 2 diabetes Eating a wide variety of foods, including a mix of certain vegetables, can help people with diabetes stay healthy while enjoying a range of meals. Low-GI vegetables Low-GI vegetables can help prevent sugar spikes. The GI ranking of a food shows how quickly the body absorbs glucose from that food. The body absorbs blood sugar much faster from high-GI foods than low-GI foods. People with […]
A team of researchers has restored some brain functions in a pig that died 4 hours earlier. The findings challenge preexisting notions of postmortem brain functionality and open up new possibilities for studying the human brain. New research opens up the possibility of studying the human brain in its intact form. Nenad Sestan, who is a professor of neuroscience, comparative medicine, genetics, and psychiatry at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, CT, and his team have restored circulation and cellular activity in a pig’s brain, postmortem. However, the researchers caution, they did not restore any electrical brain activity, nor did they find any evidence of awareness or perception. The findings contradict the previous belief that some brain functions are irreversibly lost after death. Furthermore, the results of this study could offer scientists a way of studying the brain in its intact form. Prof. Sestan and his colleagues detail their experiment in the journal Nature. Restoring a ‘cellularly active brain’ Mammalian brains, explain the researchers, are very sensitive to oxygen deprivation, which leads to neuronal death and brain damage. The predominant scientific understanding is that the chain reaction of cellular damage that oxygen and blood supply cut-off triggers are […]
Latest Prevention & Wellness News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Test strips help millions monitor their health at home, but people should avoid buying strips that are pre-owned or not approved for sale in the United States. Using such strips could lead to incorrect test results that could put people at risk for serious problems and even death, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says. What are some examples of how these strips are used? A person with diabetes would apply blood to a test strip to measure their blood sugar level, while patients taking the blood thinner warfarin would apply blood to a test strip to see how well the drug is working. Test strips are also used at home to monitor cholesterol levels and pregnancy. But not all test strips are created equal, the FDA noted. Pre-owned test strips or test strips not authorized for sale in the United States may be sold online through Amazon, eBay and Craigslist, or directly from the seller, according to the FDA. If you use test strips for at-home testing, don’t buy or use previously owned test strips. There are a number of signs that may indicate your test strips […]
Latest Pregnancy News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — For women who deliver a baby by cesarean section, the risk of developing a surgical site infection is higher if she is covered by Medicaid versus private insurance, a new study finds. Several factors may be at play, including a patient’s living situation and social support after leaving the hospital, as well as differences in the type of care covered by insurers, according to the researchers. The study included data on nearly 292,000 C-section deliveries that took place in California between 2011 and 2013. Of those, 48% were covered by Medicaid, a government program that provides health care to people with low income or disabilities. Surgical site infections occurred in 0.75% of the deliveries covered by Medicaid and 0.63% of those covered by private insurance. In other words, women covered by Medicaid had a 1.4-fold higher risk, the researchers reported. Such infections were more often detected after women left the hospital and were readmitted, rather than during the original hospitalization, the study authors noted. The risk of surgical site infection during the original hospitalization was small and did not differ by type of insurance coverage, according to lead author Sarah […]
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Neurology News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The death of brain cells may not be as sudden, or as irreversible, as previously believed. Four hours after a pig’s death, Yale scientists restored circulation and revived cellular activity within the dead animal’s brain. The cells of the brain remained viable six hours later, compared with other brains not preserved using the newly developed process, the researchers reported. It might sound like Frankenstein, but it isn’t, the scientists insist. Although its cells were kept alive, the brain itself never displayed the sort of organized electrical activity associated with consciousness, said senior researcher Dr. Nenad Sestan. He’s a professor of neuroscience at the Yale School of Medicine. “This is not a living brain, but it is a cellularly active brain,” Sestan explained. So what’s the point? The finding challenges long-held assumptions that brain cells swiftly and irreversibly die off once their blood supply has been cut, the researchers said. “By doing this, we can possibly come up with better therapies for stroke and other disorders that cause cells in the brain to die,” Sestan said. The same process that preserved the pig’s brain also might be […]
Men who took either of two widely prescribed drugs to treat an enlarged prostate were found to be at increased risk for type 2 diabetes, a new study says. Latest Men’s Health News Researchers looked at 39,000 men who took either finasteride (Proscar) and dutasteride (Avodart). They were compared to a control group of 16,000 men who took tamsulosin (Flomax), a different type of drug for enlarge prostate, The New York Times reported. Over 11 years, the risk of developing diabetes was 32 percent higher among men who took Avodart and 26 percent higher among those who took Proscar, compared to those who took Flomax. The study was published in the BMJ. The increased risk of diabetes among men taking Avodart and Proscar is slight — about an extra 16 cases for every 1,000 men treated over 10 years — but it still a significant public health issue, according to study lead author Li Wei, associate professor, School of Pharmacy, University College London, U.K., The Times reported. “We don’t want anyone to suddenly change their drug,” she said. “But you need to discuss it with a physician, especially if you are already at high risk for diabetes. You have to […]
(HealthDay News) — Thousands of young children face injury or death in car accidents each year. Proper use of car seats can keep children safe in the event of a crash, says American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Latest Healthy Kids News The AAP provides these guidelines for choosing car seats: All infants and toddlers should ride in a rear-facing seat. After outgrowing a rear-facing seat, a child should ride in a forward-facing seat with a harness. After outgrowing the forward-facing seat, a child should use a belt-positioning booster seat. Children old enough and large enough to fit correctly should use seat belts. All children under 13 years of age should ride in the back seat. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Healthy Kids News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — They were once imprisoned in plastic bubbles that cut them off from the dangerous, infectious world. But now, children born with a disease that robs them of a functioning immune system may have gained a new lease on life. Researchers say gene therapy may be a cure for X-linked severe combined immune deficiency (SCID-X1), widely known as “bubble boy disease.” Ten infants have successfully received the experimental therapy, which involves collecting their bone marrow and exposing it to a virus that inserts a corrected copy of the defective gene into their stem cells, say researchers at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Memphis, Tenn. “These patients are toddlers now who are responding to vaccination and have immune systems that produce all immune cells they need for protection from infections as they explore the world and live normal lives,” said lead researcher Dr. Ewelina Mamcarz, a doctor with St. Jude’s Department of Bone Marrow Transplantation and Cellular Therapy. The gene therapy appears to have fully restored the immune system in the toddlers, something that hasn’t been possible before, said Dr. James Downing, president and CEO of […]
Latest Heart News THURSDAY, April 18, 2019 (HealthDay News) — When you eat during the day could influence your chances of surviving a heart attack, a new study finds. Specifically, skipping breakfast and eating dinner late in the evening were associated with poorer recovery and increased risk of death, scientists report. “Our research shows that the two eating behaviors are independently linked with poorer outcomes after a heart attack, but having a cluster of bad habits will only make things worse,” said study author Dr. Marcos Minicucci, from Sao Paolo State University in Brazil. “People who work late may be particularly susceptible to having a late supper and then not being hungry in the morning,” he noted. The study included 113 heart attack patients, average age 60, who were asked about their eating habits when being admitted to a coronary intensive care unit. Those with a pattern of skipping breakfast and eating dinner late in the evening had a four to five times higher risk of death, another heart attack or angina (chest pain) within 30 days after leaving the hospital. A pattern of breakfast skipping was defined as eating nothing before lunch — other than beverages such as coffee […]
Latest Heart News THURSDAY, April 18, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Researchers say an experimental stroke drug prevented blood clots without the typical side effect of blood thinners: increased bleeding risk. Bleeding is a common and potentially dangerous side effect of current anti-clotting drugs used to treat stroke patients. But the new findings suggest that the antiplatelet drug, called ACT017, may be a safe and effective alternative to current therapies used in stroke patients. “Any way to minimize bleeding risk after administering antiplatelet agents is highly desirable,” said one expert, Dr. Andrew Rogove. He directs stroke services at Northwell Health’s Southside Hospital in Bay Shore, N.Y. “Further investigation of this promising drug in treatment of acute ischemic stroke is warranted and necessary,” said Rogove, who wasn’t involved in the new study. This early, phase 1 trial of ACT017 was funded by the drug’s maker, Acticor-Biotech. It included 36 healthy men and women, aged 22 to 65, who were divided into six groups. Each group received intravenous infusions of the drug over six hours with doses ranging from 62.5 milligrams (mg) to 2,000 mg. The drug did not significantly extend “bleeding time” — a marker of increased risk for dangerous bleeds, said […]
Latest Heart News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Your heart will thank you if you replace red meat with healthy plant proteins. Doing so will lower your odds for heart disease, according to a new study. Researchers analyzed data from 36 trials involving more than 1,800 people to learn how different diets affected heart disease risk factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides and lipoproteins. They found no significant differences in total cholesterol, lipoproteins or blood pressure between diets with red meat and all other eating regimens. But diets higher in red meat were associated with higher levels of triglycerides. Researchers also noted that people whose diet included more high-quality plant proteins such as legumes, soy and nuts had lower levels of both total and LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. “Asking ‘Is red meat good or bad?’ is useless,” said senior author Dr. Meir Stampfer, a professor of epidemiology and nutrition at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston. “It has to be ‘Compared to what?’ If you replace burgers with cookies or fries, you don’t get healthier. But if you replace red meat with healthy plant protein sources, like nuts and beans, you get a health benefit,” […]
Latest Heart News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Physical fitness is good for the heart, brain and overall health. But a specific type called cardiorespiratory fitness may help predict the odds of having a heart attack, especially for women, new research shows. Higher cardiorespiratory fitness translated to lower heart attack risk, with women appearing to benefit the most. The findings suggest “cardiorespiratory fitness can be used as a risk calculator for first heart attacks,” said Rajesh Shigdel, lead author of the Norwegian study published Wednesday in the Journal of the American Heart Association. “Measuring cardiorespiratory fitness will tell you which risk group you are in,” said Shigdel, a researcher in the Department of Public Health and Nursing at Norwegian University of Science and Technology in Trondheim, Norway. Cardiorespiratory fitness reflects the body’s ability to transport oxygen during sustained physical activity. It can be measured using VO2 max, the maximum amount of oxygen the body can use during exercise. A higher VO2 max indicates higher cardiorespiratory fitness. Relying on data from one of the largest health studies ever performed, Shigdel and his team estimated cardiorespiratory fitness for more than 26,000 Norwegians who were 56 years old on […]
(HealthDay News) — Cochlear implants are electronic devices that can restore hearing for people with hearing loss. Both adults and children can benefit from cochlear implants, says Mayo Clinic. Latest Hearing News People with cochlear implants have reported: Ability to hear speech without needing visual cues. Ability to listen in a noisy space. Ability to distinguish locations of sounds. Better recognition of everyday sounds. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
By Alan MozesHealthDay Reporter Latest HIV News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) in the 1990s revolutionized HIV/AIDS treatment. But while it dramatically improves survival, some patients can develop troublesome side effects or even resistance to the potent pills. So, the search for an alternative has continued. Enter UB-421. An antibody that is infused into the bloodstream, this new compound showed promise as a weekly or biweekly treatment in a small four-month study. “We have demonstrated unprecedented and sustained suppression of the virus in all patients, and achieved a near 100% success rate in this study,” said study author Chang-Yi Wang. Wang is the founder, chair and chief scientific officer of United Biomedical, the New York-based pharmaceutical company that developed UB-421. Wang’s enthusiasm is matched by Dr. Anthony Fauci, who has led the Bethesda-based U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases since 1984. “The results are quite successful and pretty striking,” Fauci said. “This antibody dramatically suppresses the virus. So, it’s a pretty important proof-of-concept.” Wang added that UB-421 infusions not only controlled HIV, “but will also not generate drug resistance.” What’s more, early results suggest that UB-421 may also […]
By Steven ReinbergHealthDay Reporter Latest Exercise & Fitness News THURSDAY, April 18, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Daily exercise may be the ideal, but even weekend workouts might prolong your life, a new study suggests. In a study of more than 3,400 men and women over age 40, researchers found those who exercised one or two days a week had the same low death rates as those who exercised more frequently. “One of the main concerns to increasing physical activity is limited time, particularly multiple days a week,” said lead researcher Eric Shiroma. He’s a staff scientist and epidemiologist at the U.S. National Institute on Aging. At the study’s start, participants wore activity monitors for a week. The researchers classified them as “weekend warriors” if they exercised only one or two days a week, or as regularly active folks who spread their exercise out over the week. All were tracked for about six years. Although the regular exercisers had about 50% more moderate and vigorous workouts than the weekend exercisers, the health benefits were similar. “We found that weekend warriors had a similar mortality benefit compared to more frequent exercisers,” Shiroma said. The weekend warriors had health benefits similar to those […]
Latest Digestion News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — In a North American first, an anonymous living liver donation led to a rare paired living liver donor exchange in Canada last summer that saved the lives of two people with failing livers. Kelly Bryan, 38, donated 70% of her liver to an adult stranger, Muhammad Khan, who needed a liver transplant. Then that recipient’s wife, Hina Khan, donated more than half her liver to another stranger who needed a liver transplant. Bryan’s anonymous living liver donation to a dying patient enabled the transplant team to set up a rare paired liver exchange donation. “I wanted to donate to a stranger because although they’re not my friend or family member, they’re still someone else’s friend, family, loved one, and they deserve the gift of a new liver and new life,” Bryan, a mother of three, said in a University Health Network (UHN) Transplant Program news release. Living liver donation carries more risks than a living kidney donation, and it comes with a 0.3% donor risk of death and a 30% risk of complications following an adult-to-adult donation with the larger right liver lobe. This lobe is what both donors in […]
What is tonsillitis? The large tonsils are two oval-shaped areas of lymphoid tissue that occur on the left and the right side of the throat. These tonsils are also referred to as the palatine tonsils. In addition, there are two lingual tonsils located at the base and the back of the left and right tongue. Tonsillitis is inflammation of one or both of the tonsils. The adenoids are lymphoid tissue located at the back the pharynx that often become infected with the same microbes at the same time as the tonsils. Is tonsillitis contagious? Most acute infections of the tonsils are due to viruses or bacteria and usually is contagious by direct person-to-person contact. Tonsillitis caused by a virus infection usually is contagious for about seven to 10 days. Bacterial tonsillitis can remain contagious for about two weeks. Some individuals can become chronic carriers of potentially infectious bacteria and can be mildly contagious for long periods of time. People who are infected by bacteria and are treated with antibiotics are considered non-contagious after approximately 24-48 hours of appropriate antibiotic therapy. Tonsillitis Symptoms Swollen tonsils can accompany a number of different infections of the upper respiratory tract. Tonsillitis refers to inflammation […]
Latest Arthritis News THURSDAY, April 18, 2019 (HealthDay News) — British researchers have pinpointed which factors put knee replacement patients at high risk for severe infection and repeat surgery. “This information provides me with the strong evidence I need to discuss the risk of infection with my patients undergoing knee replacement and helps us identify strategies to minimize that risk,” said study co-author Dr. Michael Whitehouse. He’s a consultant in trauma and orthopedic surgery at the University of Bristol Medical School. Knee replacement is a common procedure most often used to treat pain and disability caused by osteoarthritis. Deep infection is a rare but serious complication that occurs in about 1% of knee replacement patients. In some cases, patients require an additional knee operation. In this study, researchers analyzed data on more than 670,000 knee replacement patients in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, including more than 3,600 who needed another knee operation due to infection. The leading patient-related risk factors for severe infection after knee replacement were: being younger than 60; being male; having chronic pulmonary disease, diabetes or liver disease; and having a higher body mass index (BMI — an estimate of body fat based […]
By Len CanterHealthDay Reporter Latest Allergies News THURSDAY, April 18, 2019 (HealthDay News) — You might be surprised to learn that food allergies can start in adulthood and involve a food you’ve eaten without a problem for your entire life. For adults as well as kids, the top — but not the only — food culprits are eggs, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, fish and shellfish, wheat and soy, according to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Just as with childhood food allergies, you’ll need to do your best to avoid these foods and be prepared in case you inadvertently come into contact with one of them. Signs of a Severe Allergic Reaction The most serious reaction is called anaphylaxis, an extreme inability to breathe that can lead to shock. It is a life-threatening emergency. Keep in mind that allergic reactions can be unpredictable. Most happen within a few hours of contact, but some are instantaneous. It could take only a small amount of the allergen to cause swelling, hives or anaphylaxis. Also, your body could experience more than one type of reaction — your skin, gastrointestinal tract, heart and/or breathing could be affected. So it’s important to call […]
Latest Allergies News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Allergies to vaccines are extremely rare and even when they do occur, allergists can safely administer vaccines, Canadian experts report. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) allergies that cause hives, swelling, wheezing or anaphylaxis occur in only 1 of 760,000 vaccinations. Such a reaction typically starts within minutes of a shot, is unlikely to occur after 60 minutes, and is highly unlikely after four hours, according to two physicians at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario. Fever, local pain and swelling can occur up to 21 days after a vaccination and are not signs of allergy, according to Dr. Derek Chu, a fellow in clinical immunology and allergy, and Dr. Zainab Abdurrahman, an assistant clinical professor in pediatrics. Other than the yellow fever vaccine, an egg allergy is no reason to avoid vaccinations, they said. No special precaution is needed when people with an egg allergy get a shot for flu; measles, mumps and rubella; or rabies — even though those vaccines may contain a tiny amount of egg protein, the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Canadian Pediatric Society said. A reaction after a vaccination could be due to a latex allergy […]
Beans are a diabetes superfood, meaning they are an excellent choice for people with diabetes and provide many health and nutritional benefits. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) created a list of beneficial foods for diabetes, or diabetic superfoods, that are “rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber” and may help prevent disease. Beans are at the top of this list. This article discusses the benefits of beans, their nutrition, and the best types of beans to consume. Benefits of beans Beans are an excellent, affordable source of protein, fiber, and minerals. Adding beans to a meal can help people keep their blood sugar levels stable and help keep the body healthy. The following sections discuss the benefits of beans for diabetes. Carbohydrates Beans are a good source of fiber and protein. Although beans contain carbohydrates, they are low on the glycemic index (GI) scale and do not cause significant spikes in a person’s blood sugar levels. Beans are a complex carbohydrate. The body digests this form more slowly than other carbohydrates, helping to keep blood sugar levels stable for longer. According to the University of California, a ½ cup serving of the following beans contains 125 calories, 15 grams (g) […]
Brazil nuts come from the South American Bertholletia excelsa, or Brazil nut, tree. They are a good source of healthful fats, protein, fiber, and selenium.Despite its name, the Brazil nut is technically a seed rather than a nut. By definition, nuts are hard-shelled fruits that contain a single, large seed. Walnuts and pistachios are good examples. Brazil nuts may offer surprising and powerful nutritional benefits, including boosting heart health, providing antioxidants, and improving brain function. In this article, we discuss the health benefits of Brazil nuts, their risks, and how to add them to the diet. 1. Nutrition Brazil nuts are a healthful source of essential nutrients. Brazil nuts are among the richest dietary sources of selenium, an essential mineral with antioxidant properties. Selenium plays an important role in reproduction, metabolism, and immune health. A single Brazil nut contains 68 to 91 micrograms (mcg) of selenium, meaning that just one nut per day can provide the daily recommended adult allowance of 55 mcg. In addition to selenium, Brazil nuts contain plenty of protein, essential minerals, and healthful fats. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a serving of three Brazil nuts contains the following nutrients: 99 calories 2.15 […]
Essential oils contain concentrated plant extracts. Aromatherapy with some essential oils may help relieve neuropathic pain.Neuropathy is a general term for conditions that develop as a result of nerve damage. One of the most common forms of neuropathy is diabetic peripheral neuropathy, which occurs in up to 50 percent of people with diabetes. Peripheral neuropathy typically affects a person’s hand and feet. It can cause pain, tingling, and numbness. Other types of neuropathy can also develop in people with diabetes. Research suggests that some essential oils may help reduce pain resulting from inflammation and nerve damage. However, much of the available research comes from animal models and individual case studies. In this article, we look at some essential oils that may relieve neuropathic pain as well as the supporting evidence. We also describe how to use the oils, risks and considerations, other treatments, and causes and symptoms of neuropathy. Ginger Using ginger oil may help reduce neuropathic pain from inflammatory conditions. A 2014 study compared the effectiveness of Swedish massage using aromatic ginger oil with traditional Thai massage in 140 older adults who had chronic lower back pain. Although both treatments improved the symptoms, Swedish massage with aromatic ginger oil […]
People have used raw honey in traditional medicine for hundreds of years. This sweet, natural substance may contain healthful elements that processed honey does not have.Honey provides a range of health benefits. Raw honey, which comes straight from the beehive, contains healthful bee pollen, bee propolis, and plenty of antioxidants. Research has not confirmed that raw honey has more health benefits than regular honey, but some people believe that the processing and pasteurization that regular honey undergoes diminishes many of the beneficial elements. Some people believe that because of this, raw honey provides more health benefits than regular honey. In this article, we compare the health benefits of raw honey and regular honey. What is raw honey? Raw honey is not filtered or pasteurized. Honey is a sweet, golden liquid made by honeybees. Honeybees store their honey in small, hexagonal cups called a honeycomb. Raw honey comes straight from the honeycomb. Honey from the hive contains bee pollen, beeswax, and parts of dead bees. Honey manufacturers will usually pass raw honey through a filter to remove as many impurities as possible, but some generally remain. It is still safe to eat. Unlike raw honey, regular honey undergoes a pasteurization process. […]
Many people believe that mixing alcohol and antibiotics is not safe. Is it dangerous? What are the risks of drinking alcohol while taking antibiotics? Antibiotics are drugs that target bacteria to treat and prevent infections. There are many types of oral antibiotic. Not all antibiotics interact with alcohol, and doctors give different recommendations about alcohol depending on the type of antibiotic. In this article, we discuss the risks of mixing antibiotics and alcohol. We also explore the effects of alcohol on the immune system. Is it safe to mix alcohol and antibiotics? A person may experience digestive problems when they drink alcohol while taking antibiotics. Not all antibiotics interact with alcohol. Depending on the type of antibiotic someone is taking, doctors may recommend limiting or avoiding alcohol intake. Alcohol interacts directly with some antibiotics and can cause dangerous side effects or make them less effective at removing bacteria. When the body breaks down alcohol, it also produces acetaldehyde, which can cause nausea. Many people experience stomach or digestive side effects when taking antibiotics. Drinking alcohol while taking antibiotics may increase this feeling of nausea due to the combined side effects. Although nausea is a common side effect of both antibiotics […]
A noninvasive, low-intensity ultrasound method that targets nerve cells, or neurons, can alter brain function to influence decision-making. New research shows how a brain area called the anterior cingulate cortex controls a type of reasoning known as counterfactual thinking. Scientists have demonstrated the technique in a recent study, in which they disrupted “counterfactual thinking” in primates. Counterfactual thinking, or counterfactual reasoning, is a type of decision-making that involves considering options that are not available now but could be in the future. For example, a person working indoors on a sunny day who says to themselves, “I could be outside enjoying the sunshine,” is engaging in counterfactual thinking. The recent study is the first to show that a frontal brain region known as the anterior cingulate cortex can regulate counterfactual thinking. In a paper in Nature Neuroscience, the authors describe how they altered counterfactual thinking in macaque monkeys by targeting neurons in their anterior cingulate cortex with noninvasive, low-intensity ultrasound. ‘Internal representations of choices’ Research on decision-making has tended to focus on brain circuits that control responses to current stimuli. However, the authors note that “Animals often pursue behaviors for which there is currently no sensory evidence.” They argue that, to […]
New research dispels some common sleep myths that prevent people from getting adequate rest and that may lead to health problems in the long run. Debunking common sleep myths is key for our overall health, suggests new research. Over a third of adults in the United States do not get enough sleep, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In fact, around 35 percent of adults get less than the recommended 7 hours of sleep every night. Researchers have linked insufficient sleep with a range of health problems. These include obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and mental health issues. Several widespread misconceptions about what constitutes good sleep hygiene could contribute significantly to the sleep deprivation crisis, suggests new research. Rebecca Robbins, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Population Health at New York University’s (NYU) Langone Health in New York City, is the lead investigator of the new study. Robbins and her colleagues published their findings in the journal Sleep Health. The researchers reviewed over 8,000 websites in an attempt to find the most common beliefs about sleep. Then, they determined whether they could dispel these beliefs as myths or whether any scientific research backs them. The scientists […]
Latest Women’s Health News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday announced a ban on the sale of all pelvic mesh products. The surgical mesh is typically used to repair pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and incontinence, but reported side effects have included permanent incontinence, severe discomfort and an inability to have sex. “In order for these mesh devices to stay on the market, we determined that we needed evidence that they worked better than surgery without the use of mesh to repair POP,” said Dr. Jeffrey Shuren, director of the FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “That evidence was lacking in these premarket applications, and we couldn’t assure women that these devices were safe and effective long term.” Simply put, the remaining makers of the mesh devices — Boston Scientific and Coloplast — failed to prove the long-term safety or benefit of their devices, the FDA said in a news release. The companies will have 10 days to submit plans to withdraw these products from the market, the FDA said. Most pelvic mesh products have already been taken off the market, according to the Associated Press. The products are the subjects […]
Latest Pregnancy News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Here’s bad news for some women in the military: An increased risk of minor birth defects was found among U.S. female veterans of the 1990-91 Gulf War. Researchers examined data on minor and major birth defects among 788 children born to 522 Gulf War-era female and male veterans who were and were not deployed during the war. Women accounted for almost 30 percent of the veterans in the study. Rates of major birth defects were similar for children of deployed and non-deployed veterans. And there was no difference in major birth defects among children whose mothers were or weren’t deployed. But the study found that minor birth defects, such as drooping eyelid, were almost five times more common among children of deployed women than non-deployed women, 22 percent versus 5 percent. The main reasons for the difference were higher rates of minor eye and musculoskeletal abnormalities among children born to deployed women, said Dr. Melvin Blanchard, of Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and colleagues. Drooping eyelid (congenital ptosis) was the most common birth defect. Rates were 13 percent among children of deployed women, compared with 2 percent […]
Latest Mental Health News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Middle-aged Americans are hitting the sauce too hard and too often, a new poll shows. It found that 33% of adults aged 35 to 44 who have at least one drink in a typical week agreed with one or more statements that would prompt an addiction specialist to consider treatment, according to the American Osteopathic Association (AOA). Of adults from this age group, 9% said they continue to drink even though it has already harmed their career, education and/or relationships, the online survey of nearly 2,000 people found. Binge-drinking — four or more drinks in a two-hour period for women and five or more for men — is typical behavior for 7% of adults aged 35 to 44 and 10% of adults aged 45 to 54, according to the poll. “We tend to believe a person is managing alcohol well if they’re not an alcoholic,” said Dr. Malissa Barbosa, an addiction medicine specialist in Orlando, Fla. “But what many fail to recognize is the gradual impact the chemical has on the body, as well as the associated disease states,” Barbosa said in an AOA news release. Alcohol harms vital […]
Latest Mental Health News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The feeling of “oneness” may make you more satisfied with your life, new research finds. Oneness is the belief that everything in the world is connected and interdependent. Two surveys of nearly 75,000 people in Germany found a strong link between life satisfaction and higher scores on concepts associated with oneness — such as social connectedness, feeling close to nature and empathy. This was true whether people were part of a religion or not, according to the study recently published online in the journal Psychology of Religion and Spirituality. Participants were from a variety of religious traditions, including Protestant denominations, Catholicism, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism. More than a quarter said they were atheists. “The feeling of being at one with a divine principle, life, the world, other people or even activities has been discussed in various religious traditions but also in a wide variety of scientific research from different disciplines,” said study author Laura Marie Edinger-Schons. She is a professor of corporate social responsibility at the University of Mannheim in Germany. “The results of this study reveal a significant positive effect of oneness beliefs on life satisfaction, even […]
By Len CanterHealthDay Reporter Latest Healthy Kids News WEDNESDAY, April 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Leading health organizations are warning about the possibility of video game addiction. The World Health Organization has included it in the latest edition of its reference book of health disorders, while the American Psychiatric Association’s book offers warning signs but does not yet list it as an addiction. So parents might wonder whether any gaming is safe for their kids. If you follow American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines for limiting daily screen time, many games and apps can help with learning, particularly for kids with certain developmental problems. Understood.org is a nonprofit organization that offers ideas and information to help children with learning and attention issues. Its Tech Finder can point parents to specific apps and games that nearly every child could benefit from. From a dropdown menu, you enter your child’s grade and the specific skill he or she would like to build on, such as reading, writing and math; attention and organization; social and motor skills; and speech and listening comprehension. Tech Finder then gives you a list of fun and educational games and apps to try. The site also offers tips for […]
Latest Healthy Kids News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Experts say 51 children died in hot cars in the United States last year — the highest toll on record. The previous single-year high was 49 deaths in 2010, the National Safety Council (NSC) said. With another hot summer approaching, the safety council has issued free online training. The course, called “Children in Hot Cars,” explains how distraction and other factors can lead to death in overheated vehicles. “Last year, we set one of the saddest records in U.S. roadway safety history,” said Nick Smith, NSC interim president and CEO. “We believe this new training will go a long way toward educating people about pediatric vehicular heatstroke and empowering them with tips so they can avoid behaviors that can lead to these tragic deaths,” Smith said in an NSC news release. In many cases, the driver forgets about the child in the back seat. Hot-car deaths are a form of distracted driving that’s often overlooked, according to the safety council. “Children in Hot Cars” explains why cars heat up so quickly, why children are at particular risk from rising temperatures in cars, and what parents, caregivers and others can […]
A salmonella outbreak linked to frozen, raw ground tuna from Jensen Tuna has sickened 13 people in seven states, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. Latest Infectious Disease News The illnesses began between Jan. 8 and March 20 of this year. Two people have been hospitalized. No deaths have been reported. On April 15, Jensen recalled the frozen, raw ground tuna that was individually packed in one-pound bags and sold in 20 pound boxes with lot numbers z266, z271, and z272. The tuna was distributed to all seven states where illnesses have been reported — Connecticut, Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota, New York and Washington — but may have been redistributed to other states, according to the CDC. The investigation is continuing, the agency said. Restaurants and retailers should not sell or serve recalled frozen, raw ground tuna from Jensen. Consumers who order sushi made with raw tuna, including “spicy tuna,” should ask the restaurant or grocery store if the tuna is supplied by Jensen Tuna. Most people infected with salmonella develop diarrhea, fever and stomach cramps 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. The illness usually lasts 4 to 7 days, and most people recover […]
Latest Heart News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Sydney Ridlehoover had finished her chores and convinced her parents to take her and a friend to the mall near their home outside Columbus, Ohio. Once they arrived, the girls got out of the car and walked ahead, laughing and talking. Peter Hubby, Sydney’s stepfather, saw her fall to the ground before even getting to the mall. He figured the 13-year-old had tripped or was just goofing around. Peter and Tracy Elsinger, Sydney’s mom, realized otherwise when she didn’t get up. They rushed to her side. She was shaking and making strange breathing sounds. Tracy thought Sydney was having a seizure. She turned her daughter on her side and screamed for help while Peter called 911. Within moments, a respiratory therapist who happened to be nearby heard the commotion and arrived at Sydney’s side. She recognized that the girl was in cardiac arrest and began CPR. An off-duty EMT also was passing by and joined the rescue effort. When a mall security officer arrived, the off-duty EMT asked him for an automated external defibrillator. The security officer grabbed the AED in his truck and brought it to the […]
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Heart News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Where your resting heart rate goes, so goes your health. That’s the suggestion of a new study that found older Swedish men with a resting heart rate of 75 beats per minute had a doubled risk of an early death, even though that rate is well within the normal range of 50 to 100 beats per minute. That increase in risk held for both death from any cause and death linked to heart disease. What’s more, every additional heart beat per minute increased a person’s overall risk of early death by 3% and their risk of heart disease by 2%. Based on these results, doctors might want to keep an eye on a person’s resting heart rate, said American Heart Association expert Dr. Vincent Bufalino. A gradual rise in heart rate could mean trouble ahead for your heart health. “You wouldn’t have thought you’d have that level of impact from a change in your resting heart rate,” said Bufalino, senior vice president and senior medical director of cardiology-AMG at Advocate Health Care in Naperville, Ill. At the same time, Bufalino said, it’s a “bit of a […]
(HealthDay News) — Before taking an antidepressant, it’s important to take a few factors into consideration, says the American Academy of Family Physicians. Latest Depression News The academy suggests: Talk to your doctor about different antidepressant options. Inform your doctor of other medicines, vitamins and supplements you take. Understand that you should not stop taking an antidepressant without speaking with your doctor. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Certain batches of Ben & Jerry’s Coconut Seven Layer Bar bulk and Ben & Jerry’s Chunky Monkey pints may contain undeclared tree nuts that could put people with an allergy or severe sensitivity to tree nuts at risk for a life-threatening allergic reaction. Latest Allergies News The products, which have been recalled by Unilever, may contain tree nuts such as almonds, Brazil nuts and hazelnuts, but do not declare tree nuts on the ingredient list or allergy information list, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said. The products do have a “Contains Walnuts” and a “May contain other tree nuts” on the label. The recalled Ben & Jerry’s Coconut Seven Layer Bar bulk product is sold in a 2.4 gallon tub with a Consumer UPC of 076840104246 and best by date of SEP1520BJ4. The recalled Ben & Jerry’s Chunky Monkey pint is sold in a pint tub (473 mL) with a Consumer UPC of 076840100354 and best by dates of AUG2820BH2, AUG2920BH2, or AUG3020BH2. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
New research suggests that chemicals in purple corn can reduce inflammation and insulin resistance in a mouse cell model. Can researchers harness the chemicals in purple corn to improve diabetes? Eating a healthful diet is a cornerstone of the prevention and management of type 2 diabetes. Fruit, nonstarchy vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes are all on the list of foods that the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommend. There is no one-size-fits-all approach, and the latest ADA recommendations advise that individuals work with a healthcare professional to determine which foods help them control their blood sugar levels. Corn may not be the most obvious choice when looking at managing diabetes. However, this grain comes in a variety of shades and colors, and it is these pigment chemicals that might hold the key to unlocking its potential benefits for people living with diabetes. A 2017 study showed that rats that ate extracts from a strain of blue corn alongside a Western-style diet had less abdominal fat, better blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and lower blood pressure than rats that ate only the Western-style diet. A research team from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, who worked with collaborators at Northeast […]
Coffee is a popular drink and probably the most common source of caffeine. The caffeine content of coffee can vary considerably depending on several factors, including the type, the brewing method, and the brand. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2015–2020, more than 95 percent of adults in the United States consume foods and drinks containing caffeine. On average, U.S. adults consume between 110 and 260 milligrams (mg) of caffeine per day. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimate that a typical 8-ounce (oz) cup of coffee contains around 80–100 mg of caffeine. In this article, we examine the caffeine content of some different types and brands of coffee. We also cover factors that affect the caffeine content of coffee, other sources of caffeine, the recommended daily intake of caffeine, and its side effects. Caffeine content by coffee type Different types of coffee contain varying amounts of caffeine. We discuss the caffeine content of some of the most common types of coffee below: Brewed coffee Caffeine content varies depending on the type of coffee. Brewed coffee, which is also called filter coffee, involves brewing ground coffee beans in hot water. This mixture usually sits in a paper, metal, or […]
A bruised heel happens when an injury crushes blood vessels in the muscles and soft tissue of the heel. Repetitive movements and overuse injuries, such as from jogging in ill-fitting shoes, can cause this bruising. In most cases, elevation, ice, and rest can ease the pain. A bruise to the heel, sometimes called a heel contusion, is an injury to the soft tissue in and around the heel. This causes bleeding under the skin, though the skin does not break. A sudden blow to the heel, such as from a fall, can also lead to bruising. In some cases, however, an injury that feels like a bruise is actually something else, such as plantar fasciitis. Bruises can take several weeks to heal, depending on their severity. If the injury is, in fact, a bruise, it will heal on its own. The following home remedies can help relieve the pain. Apply a cold compress Apply a cold compress to the injured area for 10–20 minutes at a time to help dull the pain. This also reduces inflammation and swelling, which may speed healing time and make it easier to move. Some people find relief from rolling the foot over a bottle […]
Most people clear their throat from time to time. Sometimes, it is in response to irritants, other times it is just a habit. However, frequent throat clearing may be due to a medical condition. A person may clear their throat often because it feels like something is tickling or stuck in the throat. These sensations can occur even when nothing is there. Throat clearing itself is not a medical condition, but it can be a symptom of one. In this article, we explore some possible causes of frequent throat clearing. We also describe when to see a doctor and general treatment options. Postnasal drip Chronic throat clearing may indicate an underlying medical condition. The sinuses, throat, and nose all produce mucus that a person usually swallows unconsciously. When mucus starts to build up or trickle down the back of the throat, the medical name for this is postnasal drip. Causes of postnasal drip include infections, allergies, and acid reflux. A person may also notice additional symptoms, such as: Treatment Treating the cause of postnasal drip is the best way to reduce throat clearing and other symptoms. Treatment options may include: antihistamine medications for sinus and nasal allergies antibiotics for bacterial […]
Lumps and bumps are relatively common along the hairline at the back of the neck. Some possible causes can include skin irritation, acne, cysts, boils, and muscle knots. The skin on the neck hairline frequently comes into contact with potential irritants, such as shampoo, clothing detergent, sweat, and hair-care products. This area of skin is also subject to friction from a person’s hair and clothes. Irritation and friction can sometimes lead to lumps, bumps, and other skin problems. In this article, we describe some of the most common causes of lumps on the back of the neck or along the hairline. We also cover when to see a doctor. Swollen lymph nodes An infection can cause the lymph nodes to swell. The lymph system is part of the immune system and comprises a network of lymph vessels and lymph nodes. Lymph nodes help the body kill germs and filter out harmful substances from the fluid that travels along the lymph vessels. When lymph nodes swell, it can be a sign that the body is fighting an infection, such as a common cold or the flu. Several lymph nodes run along the back of the neck, on either side of the […]
Pineapple can affect blood sugar more than some other fruits, but a person with diabetes can still incorporate it into a healthful meal plan. Fruit contains carbohydrates and so can raise blood glucose levels. However, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) say that people with diabetes benefit from including fruit in their diets. Fruits are an excellent source of nutrients, including dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. This article discusses how pineapple and other fruits can affect diabetes and how best to incorporate pineapple into a dietary plan. Pineapple and diabetes Raw pineapple has a medium GI score, so people should eat it in moderation. Most fruits have low glycemic index (GI) scores, meaning that they impact blood sugar levels less than other foods. These scores tend to be low because fruit contains fructose and fiber, which help the body digest carbohydrates more slowly, leading to more stable blood sugar levels over time. Pineapples, however, have a medium GI score, which means that they can have more of an effect on blood glucose than other fruits. General GI categories are as follows: Low-GI foods have scores under 55. Medium-GI foods have scores between 56 and 69. High-GI foods have scores of 70 […]
Alzheimer’s is a relentless disease in which toxic clusters of beta-amyloid protein collect in brain cells. Now, scientists have designed a synthetic peptide, or small protein, that can block beta-amyloid in its early and most harmful stages. New research may have found a way to stop Alzheimer’s-related brain damage in its early stages. The synthetic peptide, which has only 23 amino acids, folds into structures called alpha sheets. The sheets bind to early-stage, small clumps of beta-amyloid and stop them forming larger masses. A team from the University of Washington (UW) in Seattle and other research centers in the United States designed and produced the synthetic peptide and also tested it in cells and animals. The tests showed that alpha sheets of the peptide reduced the toxic impact of beta-amyloid in cultured human brain cells. The sheets also blocked early forms of beta-amyloid in animal models of Alzheimer’s disease. The Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences is shortly to feature a paper about the study. The researchers say that the findings could lead to treatments that clear away toxic beta-amyloid in its early forms. They also see potential for using the peptide as the basis of a test for […]
New research finds that one-third of people living with cancer use complementary and alternative therapies. Medical professionals raise concerns about the safety of these practices, suggesting that they may interfere with conventional cancer treatment. New research suggests that yoga may be one of the few nonconventional therapies that may help people living with cancer. In 2018, the National Cancer Institute estimated that 1,735,350 people in the United States would receive a diagnosis of cancer by the end of that year and that 609,640 people would die from the condition. Coping with the distressing news of a cancer diagnosis can be challenging. As Dany Bell, a specialist advisor on cancer treatment and recovery at Macmillan Cancer Support in the United Kingdom, put it, “Being diagnosed with cancer can be a big shock, even if you already suspected you might have it.” Once they receive a diagnosis, many people turn to complementary and alternative therapies in search of a cure. But new research cautions that such an approach may be misguided. Dr. Nina Sanford, from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, in Dallas, led an analysis of data from a comprehensive national survey to find out exactly how many people living […]
Although 3D printing has advanced in leaps and bounds over the past few years, using it to print functioning human organs is still a far-flung dream. Recently, however, scientists have brought this dream one step closer. A 3D-printed heart engineered from the patient’s own tissues and cells.Image credit: Advanced Science 2019 The Authors Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 610,000 people in the U.S. die from heart disease each year. Once it has progressed to its final stages, the only treatment option is a heart transplant. Because there are too few heart donors, the wait for a life-saving transplant is long. Scientists are keen to find ways of patching up existing heart tissue to remove or postpone the need for a transplant. For instance, if surgeons could impant a material into the heart, it could form a temporary scaffold to support cells and boost cellular reorganization. This so-called cardiac tissue engineering has a number of problems; primarily, scientists need to find a type of material that the body would not reject. Researchers have already tried a range of materials and methods, but the perfect […]
Latest Sleep News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Mistaken beliefs about sleep are common and pose a significant health threat, a new study warns. Among these myths: some people only need five hours of sleep; snoring is harmless; a drink before bedtime helps you fall asleep. “Sleep is a vital part of life that affects our productivity, mood, and general health and well-being,” said lead investigator Rebecca Robbins. “Dispelling myths about sleep promotes healthier sleep habits which, in turn, promote overall better health.” Robbins is a postdoctoral research fellow in the department of population health at NYU Langone Health in New York City. For the study, the researchers reviewed more than 8,000 websites to identify the 20 most common beliefs about sleep. One of the top myths was the claim of some people who insist they can get by on five hours of sleep a night. The study authors said this poses the most serious health risk due the effects of long-term lack of sleep. Robbins and her colleagues suggested creating a consistent sleep schedule and getting at least seven hours of shut-eye a night. And don’t assume your snoring is no big deal — that’s another myth, […]
Latest Skin News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Danish researchers have sniffed out a potential new weapon to fight armpit odor. It’s zinc oxide, or ZnO. The strategy was inspired by hospital wound care. Because putting zinc oxide on open surgical wounds reduces corynebacteria and the bad smell it creates, researchers thought it might also make an effective deodorant. The study authors said their small, early trial with 30 healthy volunteers stopped stink cold. That’s because zinc oxide kills the two types of bacteria that cause underarm odor — Corynebacterium spp. and Staphylococcus spp. “Even though it contained no fragrance like conventional deodorants, the participants could identify that it had neutralized any bad odor under the arm where it was applied,” said lead researcher Dr. Magnus Agren, of the Copenhagen Wound Healing Center at Bispebjerg Hospital, in Denmark. But don’t breathe easy just yet: This fragrance-free deodorant isn’t yet available, though Colgate-Palmolive, who makes it and paid for the trial, hopes to bring it to market. The findings were scheduled for presentation Saturday at a meeting of the European Congress of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. For the 13-day study, 30 men and women […]
What is the treatment for atopic dermatitis? If the disease does not respond to mild local over-the-counter treatment then a physician is required. With proper treatment, most symptoms can be brought under control within three weeks. Topical corticosteroid creams and ointments are the most frequently used treatment. Since many of these are quite potent it will be necessary to have frequent physician visits to assure that the treatment is successful. Tacrolimus (Protopic) and pimecrolimus (Elidel) are non-steroid topical ointments that contain molecules that inhibit a substance called calcineurin which is important in inflammation. They rather expensive topical medicated creams that are used for the treatment of atopic dermatitis. They are particularly effective in when used on the faces of children since they seem less likely to produce atrophy. These new drugs are referred to as “immune modulators.” Crisaborole (Eucrisa), a recently approved topical treatment for children and adults with mild to moderate atopic dermatitis (AD) which seems to work by inhibiting a different portion of the inflammatory cascade in skin. Dupilumab (Duxipent) was recently approved by the FDA for treatment of moderate to severe atopic dermatitis in adults. It is an anti-IL-4 antibody that is given by injection twice a […]
(HealthDay News) — Nosebleeds often occur from a leaky blood vessel in the nose, says Harvard Medical School. Latest Prevention & Wellness News Here’s a description of a pinching technique to relieve a nosebleed: Nod your head forward. Place your thumb on one side of your nose and your forefinger on the other. Pinch your thumb and forefinger together. Hold. If the bleeding slows, you are pinching in the right place. If not, pinch lower or higher. Hold the pinch for at least five minutes. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Latest Neurology News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — New treatments mean aneurysms are no longer an automatic death sentence, specialists say. Aneurysms are a weakening or bulging of blood vessels that can rupture and become life-threatening. They can occur anywhere in the body, but are most common in the brain, or in the main blood vessels that lead to the heart, legs and arms. Aneurysms used to carry a high probability of death, but many can now be treated before they pose a serious threat. “If detected early, there are new interventions like a minimally invasive catheter-based procedure to treat the condition,” said Dr. Ali Azizzadeh. He is director of vascular surgery at Smidt Heart Institute at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Doctors used to have to fix a blood vessel by hand, which meant open surgery and the risks that go along with it. “Today, we can fix the problem from the inside, without always having to open up the patient,” Azizzadeh said in a hospital news release. Roxanne Hanks, 61, of Simi Valley, Calif., is living proof of that progress. “I was healthy, I exercised and still worked full-time,” she said in the release. “But […]
By Len CanterHealthDay Reporter Latest Healthy Kids News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Adults aren’t the only ones susceptible to urinary tract infections, or UTIs. They can occur in kids, even infants, if bacteria get into the urinary tract, often from the bowel. Any child can get a UTI. But some kids are more prone than others, and girls get them more often than boys. A UTI doesn’t always cause symptoms, and a very young child can’t voice his or her discomfort. Be on the lookout for these common signs. Under Age 2 Fever — call your doctor if your baby has a fever of 100.4 degrees or higher. Vomiting or diarrhea. Acting irritable. Not wanting to eat. Older Kids Pain or burning while urinating. Urinating or trying to urinate often. Urine that’s a strange color and/or smells bad. Pain in the lower back or lower abdomen. Fever. Once an infection is confirmed with a urine test, antibiotics will knock it out. Be sure you give all the medication as directed. Though the average UTI isn’t serious, not getting prompt treatment can be. That’s why most doctors will have you start antibiotics even before getting results of a […]
(HealthDay News) — Signs of dyslexia can appear in a child’s earliest years. For parents and teachers, looking for signs in preschoolers can help for early intervention, says the Yale Center for Dyslexia and Creativity. Latest Healthy Kids News Preschoolers with dyslexia may: Have trouble learning nursery rhymes. Show difficulty learning the alphabet. Mispronounce familiar words. Have trouble recognizing rhyming patterns. Have a family history of dyslexia. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Latest Healthy Kids News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Kids can start becoming couch potatoes as early as age 7, a new study reveals. A review of 27 studies published between 2004 and 2018 in different countries found high rates of decreasing physical activity among children and teens. While many teens quit playing sports, overall activity starts to decline during early school years among kids who were once active, said study author Irinja Lounassalo. She’s a doctoral student in sport and health sciences at the University of Jyvaskyla in Finland. So, “being physically active in childhood and adolescence may be of high importance since it can postpone the time of becoming inactive later on,” Lounassalo said. While the percentage of inactive people increases with age, certain groups actually increase their activity levels in adulthood and old age. “In the future, special attention should be paid to these individuals who increase their physical activity, because it is important to understand how potential lifelong inactivity could be turned into activity,” Lounassalo said. Among children and teens, parental support for an active lifestyle helped increase activity. For teens, less time in front of the television was associated with regular activity. For […]
The 555 confirmed cases of measles reported in 20 states between Jan. 1 and April 11 this year is the second highest number of measles cases reported in the U.S. since measles was eliminated in the nation in 2000, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. Latest Infectious Disease News States that have reported measles cases to the CDC are: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, Texas, and Washington. Measles outbreaks (three or more cases) are currently ongoing in New York State; Rockland County, N.Y.; New York City; Washington; New Jersey and California. The outbreaks are linked to travelers who brought measles back from other countries where large measles outbreaks are occurring, including Israel, Ukraine, and the Philippines, the CDC said. The agency emphasized the need for Americans get vaccinated against measles before they travel to other countries. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
How does atherosclerosis cause disease? Atherosclerosis causes disease in two ways. 1) Atherosclerosis can limit the ability of the narrowed arteries to increase delivery of blood and oxygen to the to tissues of the body during times when oxygen demand needs to be increased, for example, during exertion; or 2) complete obstruction of an artery by a thrombus or embolus (thrombus and embolus are forms of blood clots), which results in tissue death (necrosis). Exertional angina and intermittent claudication are two examples of insufficient delivery of blood and oxygen to meet tissue demand; whereas strokes and heart attacks are examples of death of tissue caused by complete artery obstruction by blood clots. There are many similarities between coronary heart diseases (or coronary artery disease, which is atherosclerosis involving the arteries of the heart) and peripheral artery disease, and the two conditions may coexist in the same individual. For example, patients with exertional angina typically have no symptoms at rest. However, during exertion the critically narrowed coronary arteries are incapable of increasing blood and oxygen delivery to meet the increased oxygen needs of the heart muscles. Lack of blood and oxygen causes chest pain (exertional angina). Exertional angina typically subsides when […]
Latest Heart News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The world’s first complete 3D printer-generated heart, made using the patient’s own cells and materials, has been created in a lab. Until now, success has been limited to printing only simple tissues without blood vessels. “This is the first time anyone anywhere has successfully engineered and printed an entire heart replete with cells, blood vessels, ventricles and chambers,” said team leader Tal Dvir. The printer-generated heart is only about a third the size of an actual human heart — and it doesn’t actually work. But it’s a groundbreaking step toward engineering customized organs that can be transplanted with less risk of rejection. “This heart is made from human cells and patient-specific biological materials,” said Dvir, a researcher at the Sagol Center for Regenerative Biotechnology at Tel Aviv University in Israel. “In our process these materials serve as the bio-inks, substances made of sugars and proteins that can be used for 3D printing of complex tissue models.” Dvir noted that scientists have managed to print a 3D structure of a heart before, but not with cells or blood vessels. “Our results demonstrate the potential of our approach for engineering personalized tissue […]
By Len CanterHealthDay Reporter Latest Exercise & Fitness News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Obliques are the muscles that run along the sides of your torso, from the lower eight ribs to the front of the hip bone. They contract when you rotate your torso, so a great way to develop them is with an exercise called the Russian twist. Lie flat on the floor in a spot where you can tuck your feet under a low piece of furniture to keep them from moving or have a workout buddy hold them in place for you. Bend your knees and raise your upper body to make a V-shape with your thighs. Extend your arms in front of you from the shoulders, lifting them until they’re parallel with your thighs, hands together. Tighten your abdomen — think of trying to bring your navel to your spine. Now twist your entire upper body, arms included, to the right side. Hold, then return to start. Repeat to the left. That’s one full repetition. Do two sets of 12 to 15 reps in all. As you get more advanced, you can hold a weight in both hands for added resistance. One type […]
By Serena GordonHealthDay Reporter Latest Diet & Weight Management News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — You’ve probably seen headlines screaming that a favorite star is packing on the pounds. Tyra Banks, Jessica Simpson, Jennifer Lawrence — no matter how thin, no celebrity seems immune from “fat-shaming.” Now, research shows the trend could have a ripple effect, making the non-famous feel bad about their bodies, too. “Fat-shaming is socially acceptable and it’s so common we don’t know how pervasive it is. No one even bats an eyelash at it or thinks about how terrible it is for that person,” said the study’s lead author, Amanda Ravary. “But the consequences affect more than just the target of fat-shaming,” said Ravary, a Ph.D. student at McGill University in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Hearing that Kourtney Kardashian’s boyfriend wants her to lose her baby weight faster, you might think it’s awful and that you don’t agree with it, but the constant exposure to these stories may change your so-called “implicit bias,” making you feel more negative about weight-related issues. “When you look at a headline and think, ‘This is terrible,’ that is your explicit attitude. Implicit attitude is whether you think something is […]
Latest Diabetes News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — A common diabetes drug may also greatly reduce the odds for death from kidney failure and heart disease in diabetes patients with kidney disease, a new study finds. The news on Invokana (canagliflozin) is important, experts say, because diabetes and kidney trouble so often go together. “Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure worldwide, but for almost two decades there have been no new treatments to protect kidney function,” noted study lead author Vlado Perkovic. He’s a professor at The George Institute for Global Health at Oxford University in the United Kingdom. “This definitive trial result is a major medical breakthrough as people with diabetes and kidney disease are at extremely high risk of kidney failure, heart attack, stroke and death,” Perkovic said in a university news release. “We now have a very effective way to reduce this risk using a once daily pill.” The research was paid for by drug company Janssen, which makes Invokana. The study involved more than 4,400 patients with diabetes and kidney disease across 34 countries. Half took Invokana and half took a “dummy” placebo pill. All of them received care for kidney disease […]
Latest Chronic Pain News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Opioid abuse-related job losses have cost U.S. federal and state governments tens of billions of dollars in lost tax revenue, a new study claims. Penn State researchers analyzed data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health along with estimates of declines in the U.S. labor force due to the opioid epidemic. Between 2000 and 2016, federal tax losses due to opioid-related reductions in the labor force totaled $26 billion, researchers estimated. State governments lost an estimated $11.8 billion in tax revenue over that period. The federal hit was entirely due to lost income tax revenue, while states also lost sales tax revenue, according to the study. Pennsylvania was among states taking the biggest hit — a $638.2 million tax revenue loss. “This is a cost that was maybe not thought about as explicitly before, and a cost that governments could potentially try to recoup,” said Joel Segel, an assistant professor of health policy and administration at Penn State. “Instead of focusing on the cost of treating people with opioid use disorder, you could think about it in terms of a potential benefit to getting people healthy, […]
Just half of patients who take statins to prevent heart disease achieved their cholesterol reduction goals, a new study finds. Latest Cholesterol News It included more than 165,000 people in the U.K. who had not been treated for heart disease or stroke and were prescribed a statin between 1990 and 2016, CNN reported. An “appropriate” response to statin therapy was defined as a 40 percent or more decline in “bad” LDL cholesterol. After two years of taking the drugs, only 48.8 percent of the patients reached that target, according to the study published Monday in the journal Heart. The researchers also found that patients who did not have adequate declines in their LDL cholesterol levels were 22 percent more likely to develop heart disease than those who did meet their cholesterol reduction goals. Just over one-third of all American adults, 78 million, take statins or are eligible to take them, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The number of Americans on statins who don’t achieve cholesterol reduction goals is likely similar to the British findings, said Dr. David Fischman, co-director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital in Philadelphia. “Taking care of patients, […]
By Alan MozesHealthDay Reporter Latest Cancer News TUESDAY, April 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Learning you have a cancer that looks imminently terminal is tough news to swallow. And new research indicates that when given just one month to live, a significant number of patients still opt for aggressive and often costly interventions, despite little evidence to suggest they’ll help. A study of just over 100,000 patients in the United States found that the urge to undergo ultimately fruitless cancer treatment “is not a rare phenomenon,” said study author Dr. Helmneh Sineshaw, of the American Cancer Society. More than one-quarter underwent active treatment, such as surgery or chemotherapy, in the final weeks of life, said Sineshaw, director of treatment patterns and outcomes research for the cancer society. “Patients newly diagnosed with metastatic cancer who die soon after diagnosis are a unique population,” he said. The findings suggest a need to better identify people who would fare better with palliative care — aimed at symptom and stress relief — rather than aggressive and expensive treatments. Dr. Richard Schilsky, chief medical officer for the American Society of Clinical Oncology, agreed that this group is “pretty rare,” accounting for just 5 percent of […]
MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Balversa (rdafitinib) has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat adults with advanced or spreading bladder cancer caused by a genetic defect called FGFR3 or FGFR2, the agency said in a news release. Latest Cancer News “We’re in an era of more personalized or precision medicine, and the ability to target cancer treatment to a patient’s specific genetic mutation or biomarker is becoming the standard, with advances being made in new disease types. Today’s approval represents the first personalized treatment targeting susceptible FGFR genetic alternations for patients with metastatic bladder cancer,” said Dr. Richard Pazdur, director of the FDA’s Oncology Center of Excellence. Bladder cancer is the sixth most common cancer in the United States, the FDA said. About 20 percent of people with the disease have an FGFR mutation. Balversa was clinically studied in a trial involving 87 people with advanced or metastatic bladder cancer and the FGFR3 or FGFR2 genetic mutation who hadn’t responded to chemotherapy, the FDA said. About one-third of those given the drug had a complete or partial response to the medication; the average response lasting about 5 1/2 months. Common side effects of […]
By Amy NortonHealthDay Reporter Latest Alzheimer’s News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — When older adults fall prey to scam artists, it might in some cases be an early warning of Alzheimer’s disease, a new study suggests. The study of 935 older adults found that those who appeared susceptible to scams were at higher risk of mental decline over the next six years. Compared with their more skeptical peers, they were 47% more likely to develop mild cognitive impairment — problems with memory and thinking that can progress to dementia. And they were typically twice as likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers said it all suggests that “low scam awareness” can be a harbinger of dementia. That’s important, in part, because financial fraudsters go after the elderly. “Older adults hold most of the wealth in this country,” said Patricia Boyle, lead researcher on the study. “We know they are often the target of scam artists, and they’re vulnerable to falling victim — to the tune of about $35 billion a year.” If an older adult falls for a scam, that alone does not mean they’re on a path toward dementia, said Boyle, a neuropsychologist with the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease […]
A new study shows that cheese improved insulin sensitivity in prediabetic rats, but industry funded the research. Can people with diabetes benefit from eating cheese? According to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), 30.3 million adults in the United States live with diabetes, and the condition is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S. In type 2 diabetes, a person’s body is unable to properly use insulin to absorb sugar from the blood into cells. Cheese loaded with fat and salt is a contentious subject when it comes to diabetes and health in general. While many people enjoy it as part of their diet, the ADA recommend reduced-fat varieties over regular fat cheese. The big problem with research into the effects of cheese is that many studies receive backing by dairy organizations. Often, it is not clear how much a funder is involved in the design and interpretation of a particular study. Public mistrust of these studies is unsurprisingly high, particularly when they make bold claims that counter public health advice. A recent study adds fuel to the fire by showing that both regular-fat and low-fat cheese improve insulin sensitivity in prediabetic rats. Dairy Farmers of Canada funded the […]
Hair growth depends on several factors, including a person’s genetic history. However, there are some home remedies that may help.Whether a person is trying to prevent hair loss or encourage more growth, knowing some tips on diet and how to treat the hair can help them achieve their goal. When hair loss is due to a medical condition, however, it is best to speak to a doctor about appropriate treatments. The following home remedies may encourage hair growth: 1. Eating more protein Eating high-protein foods, such as nuts, can help the body grow new hair. The body needs protein to grow new hair. Hair loss can arise due to a protein deficiency. Examples of healthful dietary protein sources include: beans eggs fish nuts lean meats seeds A person’s daily protein needs vary based on how physically active they are and how much muscle mass they have. 2. Increasing iron intake Iron is another nutrient the body requires to grow healthy hair. Some dietary iron sources include: clams lentils oysters pumpkin seeds spinach white beans lean beef turkey Many manufacturers also fortify their foods with iron, which means that they have added iron to them. People who do not eat meat […]
Earwax is a naturally produced yellow substance that helps keep a person’s ears clean and free of debris. Black earwax can sometimes appear, but it is usually the result of an excessive buildup of earwax and is rarely a cause for concern.Earwax protects the ear canal from things that may enter it, including: water shampoo and conditioner dirt viruses, fungi, and bacteria Several glands in the outer part of the ear produce earwax, which is sometimes called cerumen. Earwax also includes the old skin cells of the ear canal, which shed into it. In most cases, earwax is a sticky, yellow substance. However, it occasionally has a darker color, such as brown or black. By knowing some of the potential causes, most of which are benign, a person can take steps to prevent and treat black earwax. Causes and risk factors Earwax can build up and become black. When earwax is in the ear for long periods, its color will start to darken. The longer the wax remains there, the darker it will appear. Research on the effects of earwax accumulation shows that males and older adults are more likely than other people to experience buildups of earwax. In general, […]
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that causes pain and discomfort, often in the toes, ankles, and knees. There is no cure for gout, so a combination of medications and home remedies can help keep gout in remission.Gout occurs when the body builds up too much uric acid. This acid is a by-product from when the body breaks down purines found in foods. Making some dietary changes can help a person reduce their purine levels and the likelihood of having a gout flare. Home remedies for gout include: 1. Drinking plenty of water A person with gout can reduce swelling by drinking plenty of water. When a person has gout, they can experience significant swelling and inflammation. One of the ways to reduce swelling is by drinking more water. Increasing fluid consumption can kick-start a person’s kidneys to release excess fluid, which can reduce swelling in a person with gout. Water is best, but other clear fluids, such as broths and herbal teas are also good choices. People should avoid alcohol and sodas, which are high in purines. However, anyone with congestive heart failure or kidney disease should talk to their doctor before increasing their fluid intake. 2. Applying […]
A torn rotator cuff is a common injury that affects a person’s ability to lift and rotate their arm. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, an estimated 2 million people in the United States will visit a doctor for a rotator cuff problem each year. The rotator cuff is four muscles connected by tendons to the humerus, or upper portion of the shoulder. When a rotator cuff tear occurs, one or more of the tendons detaches from the humerus. The tear may be complete or partial and can cause significant pain and restrict movement. Both surgical and nonsurgical treatments are available when a person tears their rotator cuff. Causes Rotator cuff injury causes tend to fall in one of two categories — an acute injury or chronic degeneration. Acute injury Injury or degeneration of the tendons can cause a torn rotator cuff. A person can tear their rotator cuff performing a variety of activities. Examples of these types of injuries include: trauma, such as breaking a collarbone or dislocating a shoulder falling onto an outstretched arm lifting something in a sudden, jerking motion lifting something that is too heavy These are just some of the common activities that […]
The kidneys remove waste products and excess fluid from the bloodstream. These two organs sit on either side of the body just below the rib cage. The kidneys rest against the back muscles, which can make it difficult to tell the difference between kidney pain and back pain. When trying to determine whether the pain is coming from the back or kidneys, people need to take into account: the location of the pain the type and severity of the pain any accompanying symptoms In this article, we discuss the main characteristics and causes of kidney pain and back pain. We also cover when to see a doctor. Kidney pain The kidneys filter out waste and toxins from the bloodstream, which makes them susceptible to infection and damage. Excess calcium, oxalate, and phosphorous can accumulate in the kidneys to form kidney stones, which can be painful if they cause a blockage. Location A person may feel kidney pain in the back, groin, and thigh. Kidney pain occurs below the rib cage on either side of a person’s spine. It can also feel as though the pain is coming from deep within the body. People may experience pain on one or both […]
Pain in the palm of the hand can affect a person’s ability to perform everyday tasks. Causes can include injuries, infections, and conditions that affect the nerves, blood vessels, or tissues inside the hands. In this article, we describe some possible causes of pain in the palm of the hand, along with other symptoms and treatment options. We also look into general treatment tips and when to see a doctor. Injuries Overusing the hand can cause pain in the palm. Injuries to the hand are a common cause of pain and other types of discomfort, particularly in people who regularly use heavy equipment, play sports, or work in hazardous environments. Injuries can damage key areas of the hand, including nerves, tendons, and muscles. Examples of injuries that may lead to pain in the palm include: knocks, blows, and forceful impacts, such as from dropping something heavy on the hand falling on the hand burns, such as from a cooking injury cuts to the palm insect bites or stings overusing or overextending the hand, such as during sports or very repetitive tasks Other symptoms of a hand injury can include bruising, swelling, and stiffness. More severe injuries can result in damage […]
Many people believe that raw honey provides more health benefits than regular honey. Is raw honey more healthful, and what are the differences?Honey is a sweet, syrupy, golden-colored liquid made by honeybees. Honeybees store honey in the beehive to use for food and nutrients. Raw honey comes directly from the hive while regular honey undergoes processing before being bottled. In this article, we look at the differences between raw and regular honey, including processing, health benefits, uses, and possible risks. Raw honey vs. regular honey Raw honey comes straight from the hive. People use honey for food and medicine. Humans may have been using honey medicinally for as long as 8,000 years. Originally, people would have used raw honey, but today, most honey on supermarket shelves is processed, usually through pasteurization, which involves intense heating. Many of these processed types of honey may contain added sugars. What is raw honey? Raw honey comes straight from the honeycomb. The beekeeper will usually just filter the honey to remove small bits of debris, including pollen, beeswax, and parts of dead bees. They do not pasteurize the honey. Raw honey appears cloudy or opaque because it contains these extra elements. It is still […]
Scientists have pinpointed a group of cells in the brain whose activity could help explain the ability to share another’s pain. Why can we feel other people’s pain? A recent study in rats investigates. From imaging studies of human brains, it was already clear that a region called the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), which is active during the experience of pain, can also become active when observing pain in others. These studies have also shown that, when observing another’s pain, this region is more active in people with high levels of empathy and less active in people with psychopathy. However, those earlier investigations did not clarify the underlying mechanisms or the cells involved. Now, by studying rats, researchers at the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience (NIN) in Amsterdam have identified that the ability to feel the pain of others has to do with “mirror neurons” in the ACC. Scientists have found mirror neurons before, but they were concerned with observing movement. Brain studies of monkeys observing other monkeys have revealed that cells in the motor system become active as though the observing monkeys were the ones performing the actions. This activity occurs in addition to the processing of visual information. In […]
By E.J. MundellHealthDay Reporter Latest Sleep News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — There’s good news for the millions of obese Americans with sleep apnea: Researchers report the use of the CPAP mask may greatly increase their chances for a longer life. Use of the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) mask was tied to a 62% decline in the odds for death over 11 years of follow-up. That benefit held even after factoring in health risk factors such as heart disease, weight, diabetes and high blood pressure, said a French team of investigators led by Dr. Quentin Lisan, of the Paris Cardiovascular Research Center. They noted that prior randomized clinical trials had not been able to find a survival benefit for CPAP, but they now believe those trials were simply too short for the effect to emerge. In the new study, the benefit to longevity only “appears six to seven years after initiation of CPAP therapy,” the team reported in the April 11 issue of the journal JAMA Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. An expert who penned an accompanying editorial said the findings should help doctors and patients, because many people with sleep apnea balk at the notion of wearing […]
By Len CanterHealthDay Reporter Latest Sexual Health News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Many people are plagued by self-criticism, that inner voice that questions every decision and every move. It can keep you from reaching goals and erode self-confidence. And when it happens during intimacy, it can ruin your sex life and your relationship. No topic is taboo for the inner critic’s scrutiny — your attractiveness or your attraction to your partner, your sexual needs, your performance, and all these aspects of your partner as well. These thoughts can start before the first moment of intimacy and escalate to the point where your mind is not on your partner when lovemaking, but caught up in destructive thoughts. Experts say that to challenge your inner critic, you should first write down all these thoughts in detail, but do so in the second person to distance yourself from them. The next step is harder, but effective: Verbalize these thoughts with your partner. By voicing them, rather than letting them fester in your head, you can both put them in perspective and, together, debunk them. You might start by explaining that self-doubt is keeping you from feeling a close bond during […]
Latest Sexual Health News FRIDAY, April 12, 2019 (HealthDay News) — A drug touted as a “female Viagra” can cause severe low blood pressure and fainting when used with alcohol, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns. As a result, the agency has ordered the drug’s maker Sprout Pharmaceuticals to make a safety labeling change to Addyi (flibanserin). The boxed warning, contraindication, warnings and precautions, and adverse reactions sections of the drug’s labeling will advise women to stop drinking alcohol at least two hours before taking Addyi at bedtime or to skip the Addyi dose that evening. The drug is prescribed to be taken once daily, generally at bedtime. Women should not drink alcohol until at least the morning after a dose of Addyi, the FDA said. The FDA approved the drug in August 2015 to treat low sexual desire in older women. The order for the labeling change followed a review of postmarketing studies of Addyi. An FDA statement said the agency ordered the labeling change as Sprout continued to push for removing the boxed warning and contraindication about alcohol. “Based on a careful review of available data … removing this important safety information was not acceptable for the […]
Latest Senior Health News FRIDAY, April 12, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Being a family caregiver may not be as hazardous to your health as most people think, researchers say. Decades of research papers and media reports have warned that family caregivers are at risk for health declines. One suggested reason is that the stress of caregiving can increase inflammation and weaken the immune system. For this study, researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore reviewed 30 papers published between 1987 and 2016. They concluded that stress explains less than 1% of the variability in caregivers’ immune and inflammation biomarkers. “We’re not saying that family caregiving can’t be stressful, but there’s a notion that it’s so stressful that it causes deteriorating health and increased mortality. This can lead to fear of caregiving and a reluctance to care for loved ones in need,” said first author David Roth, director of Hopkins’ Center on Aging and Health. That narrative is “exaggerated,” he said. “It’s not that we didn’t find anything, but it’s a whisper of an effect, not nearly as large as what people have been led to believe,” Roth said in a Hopkins news release. He and his colleagues hope their findings […]
(HealthDay News) –Horseback trail riding is a fun, leisure activity for many Americans. However, it is important to follow rules for trail safety, says the Minnesota State Department of Natural Resources. Latest Prevention & Wellness News It encourages people to: Wear a helmet and appropriate footwear. If your horse kicks, tie a red ribbon in its tail. Do not bring unruly horses on public trails. Ride in groups. Carry a trail map and cellphone. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
An electrical implant restored near-normal levels of brain function to a woman with long-term problems from a major brain injury nearly two decades ago, researchers say. Latest Neurology News The implant stimulates activity in key areas of the brain, The New York Times reported. The woman, in her early 40s, was a student when she was severely injured in a car crash 18 years ago. After recovery, she was able to live independently but had chronic fatigue and wasn’t able to read or concentrate for long, making it impossible for her to resume her studies, hold a good job, or do much socializing. “Her life has changed,” since receiving the implant, according to study team member Dr. Nicholas Schiff, professor of neurology and neuroscience, Weill Cornell Medicine, told The Times. “She is much less fatigued, and she’s now reading novels. The next patient might not do as well. But we want keep going to see what happens,” Schiff said. The case was presented Saturday at a brain-science convention in Washington, D.C. This is a test case, and similar results may not be achieved in other patients, experts noted. “This is a pilot study,” Dr. Steven Flanagan, the chairman of the […]
By Serena GordonHealthDay Reporter Latest Neurology News FRIDAY, April 12, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Scientists suspect that your gut microbiome — the mix of bacteria that inhabit your intestines — affects your health in many ways, but a surprising new finding suggests that a healthy microbiome may even ease the symptoms of autism. The small study of 18 children with autism who also had severe digestive problems found that a fecal transplant to rebalance their gut microbiome reduced both their digestive symptoms and their autism symptoms. The improvements persisted during the two-year study follow-up period. “We treated children with autism by altering the gut microbiota. All had gastrointestinal symptoms — diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain — and those symptoms were reduced dramatically, and their behavior improved as well,” said study senior author Rosa Krajmalnik-Brown. She’s a professor at the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University in Tempe, Ariz. “When we checked again two years later, behavior was even better and gastrointestinal symptoms were still much better, but not as good as right after treatment,” she said. Krajmalnik-Brown said it’s not clear exactly how improving the microbiome helps autism symptoms. Because all of the children had severe digestive issues, she said it’s […]
Latest Mental Health News SATURDAY, April 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — A small daily dose of nature may be the perfect prescription for stress. An eight-week study found that people who spent at least 20 minutes a day in places that made them feel connected to nature had significantly lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. This so-called “nature pill” could be a low-cost antidote to the negative health impacts of urbanization and an indoor lifestyle dominated by screen viewing, researchers said. “We know that spending time in nature reduces stress, but until now it was unclear how much is enough, how often to do it, or even what kind of nature experience will benefit us,” said lead author and associate professor MaryCarol Hunter. She studies social, psychological and ecological aspects of sustainable urban design at the University of Michigan. The findings were recently published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology. The study involved 36 city dwellers. “Participants were free to choose the time of day, duration, and the place of their nature experience, which was defined as anywhere outside that in the opinion of the participant, made them feel like they’ve interacted with nature,” Hunter said in a journal […]
By Len CanterHealthDay Reporter Latest Healthy Kids News MONDAY, April 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Whether you call it snowplow, bulldozer or helicopter parenting, these child-rearing styles have gotten a lot of attention recently, and the acknowledgment that they may not be the best way to raise a confident, well-adjusted young person. Moving obstacles out of a child’s way is not the same as providing the nurturing he or she needs. Scientists know that one very important period for brain growth occurs during the preschool years. Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis analyzed a series of brain scans of children from this age through the early teen years. The aim: to learn how mom’s early support affected development of the hippocampus, the area of the brain critical to learning, memory and regulating emotions, such as stress. The investigators saw a sharper rise in the volume of the hippocampus in kids who had early nurturing, and found that these kids were healthier emotionally when they entered their teens. Hippocampus volume was smaller in teens whose mothers were less supportive during the preschool period, even if the moms were more nurturing in their elementary or middle school years. […]
Latest Healthy Kids News FRIDAY, April 12, 2019 (HealthDay News) — A newborn‘s first stool holds telltale clues about his risk for becoming an overweight 3-year-old, according to a European study. The clues come from the population of bacteria (microbiome) in the baby’s gut. Finnish researchers used genetic sequencing to analyze the first stool produced by 212 newborns and another sample at age 1. Called meconium, a baby’s first stool is composed of material ingested while in the womb. The children’s weight and height were checked at regular visits, and their antibiotic use recorded. Researchers found that the greater the abundance of Staphylococcus bacteria in an infant’s first stool, the shorter the child was at 1 and 2 years of age. Kids who were overweight by age 3 had much more (29% versus 15%) Bacteroidetes in their infant microbiome than those who were not overweight, the study found. Bacteroidetes are a large group of bacteria found in many environments, as well as in the guts and skin of many animals. Newborns who were overweight by age 3 also had less Proteobacteria (19% versus 35%), according to the team led by researcher Katja Korpela from the University of Oulu. The study […]
Latest Infectious Disease News SUNDAY, April 14, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Young sports buffs recovering from mononucleosis may be itching to return to the game they love. But one expert says the risk of suffering a burst spleen during play means staying on the sideline longer than some would like. Along with extreme fatigue, sore throat, fever and swollen glands, “mono” causes spleen enlargement. That can be dangerous for athletes because the impacts and pressure on the abdomen that occur during many sports can cause the spleen to burst. “It’s rare — occurring in less than 0.5% of patients — but an infected athlete can rupture their spleen without warning within 21 days after symptoms begin,” said Dr. Lindsay Lafferty, a primary care sports medicine physician at Penn State Health. “The rate declines after four weeks, but ruptures have occurred up to eight weeks after an athlete first notices symptoms,” she noted in a Penn State news release. Determining the risk of a spleen rupture is challenging. Because the normal size of a spleen fluctuates, ultrasounds and CT scans won’t help determine if the organ is enlarged or at risk of rupture, Lafferty said. “Physical examination of spleen size identifies […]
Latest Infectious Disease News SATURDAY, April 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Pre-cut, packaged melon distributed by major grocery chains across 16 states have been tied to an outbreak of salmonella illness, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warned Friday. The outbreak has so far involved 93 cases of Salmonella Carrau illness, including 23 cases so severe the patients required hospitalization, although no deaths have been reported, the FDA said in a statement. “Salmonella Carrau is a rare type of salmonella and has been historically seen in imported melon,” the agency noted. All cases were linked to the consumption of pre-cut cantaloupe, honeydew or watermelon “packaged in clear, plastic clamshell containers under several different brands or labels.” They were sold at grocery chains such as Kroger, Target, Trader Joes, Walmart and Amazon/Whole Foods. The tainted melons were distributed by Caito Foods LLC from its facility in Indianapolis, with cases being diagnosed between March 4 and March 31. So far, cases have cropped up in nine states: Alabama, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin. “Upon learning that this outbreak is likely linked to pre-cut melon from a Caito Foods’ facility in Indiana, the FDA began working with the company […]
Latest Infectious Disease News FRIDAY, April 12, 2019 (HealthDay News) — An outbreak of E. coli illness that’s sickened more than a hundred people across six states appears linked to tainted ground beef, although no specific product has yet been identified, federal health officials said Friday. “Ill people in this outbreak report eating ground beef at home and in restaurants,” the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. However, “at this time, no common supplier, distributor or brand of ground beef has been identified.” Cases of gastrointestinal illness caused by the E. coli O103 strain of bacterium have now risen to 109 cases across six Eastern states, up from the 96 cases reported Tuesday. Hamburgers, meatloaf and other ground beef meals are probably still safe to eat, the CDC stressed, and retailers can still sell ground beef in stores. “CDC is not recommending that consumers avoid eating ground beef at this time,” the agency said. However, as always, “consumers and restaurants should handle ground beef safely and cook it thoroughly to avoid foodborne illness,” they added. States now affected are Georgia, Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee and Virginia. Cases of illness first began to be reported March 2, and the […]
The ongoing Ebola outbreak in Congo is of “deep concern,” but does not yet qualify as a global emergency, the World Health Organization says. Latest Infectious Disease News The outbreak began on Aug. 1, 2018 and is so far the second deadliest in history, with 1,206 confirmed and probable cases, including 764 deaths, Congo’s health ministry said Thursday, the Associated Press reported. The deadliest outbreak was in West Africa from 2014-16 and killed more than 11,300 people. The recent spike of Ebola cases in Congo increases the threat that the deadly virus will spread to other countries and efforts must be redoubled to stop it, the WHO said Friday after a meeting of its expert committee, the AP reported. The is the second time the U.N. health agency has decided the Congo outbreak is not a global emergency. Before the WHO announced its decision, Red Cross official Emanuele Capobianco said he was “more concerned than I have ever been” about Ebola’s possible regional spread, the AP reported. The head of health and care at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies noted that Congolese health ministry data showed 40 new cases over two days last week. That’s […]
Latest Exercise & Fitness News FRIDAY, April 12, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — For years, aerobic exercise has been touted for its numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, better mood, increased energy, and stronger bones and muscles. But there’s another form of physical activity that’s grabbing headlines — yoga. Some studies suggest the mind-body practice may be good for heart health, from reducing blood pressure and cholesterol to lowering stress and body mass index. While yoga often is associated with images of limber practitioners, it is more than just stretching and handstands. Originated in India, yoga includes physical poses (asana), breathwork (pranayama) and meditation. There are many yoga styles, including Hatha, Iyengar, restorative and hot yoga, each with a specific emphasis such as alignment or relaxation. Recently, more Americans are stepping onto the mat. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 14.3 percent of U.S. adults — or 35.2 million — practiced yoga in 2017, up from 9.5 percent in 2012. Many take up the practice as a holistic approach to health and wellness, and for its stress-busting effect. “There’s a huge body of literature that says psychosocial stressors such as work and marital stress, as […]
Latest Exercise & Fitness News FRIDAY, April 12, 2019 (HealthDay News) — If you want to celebrate many more birthdays, new research suggests you should speed up your weight-lifting routine. Boosting muscle power, which is different than muscle strength, translated into longer lives, the Brazilian scientists said. What exactly is the difference? For example, climbing stairs requires muscle power — the faster you climb, the more power you need. But holding or pushing a heavy object only requires muscle strength. “Rising from a chair in old age and kicking a ball depends more on muscle power than muscle strength, yet most weight-bearing exercise focuses on the latter,” said researcher Claudio Gil Araujo. He’s director of research and education at the Exercise Medicine Clinic – CLINIMEX, in Rio de Janeiro. “Our study shows for the first time that people with more muscle power tend to live longer,” Araujo said in a European Society of Cardiology news release. The study included nearly 3,900 adults, aged 41 to 85, with an average age of 59, whose maximum muscle power was assessed. Over an average follow-up of 6.5 years, 10% of the men and 6% of the women died. Participants with maximal muscle power […]
Source: iStock Pinworm definition and facts Pinworm infections are caused by worm-like parasites (Enterobius vermicularis) that infect humans’ intestines and rectal/anal areas. Young children, school-aged children, and their household members, including adults, are at risk for pinworm infections. Pinworms are visible. They range in size from 2-13 mm, are white, and resemble a worm but the pinworm eggs are small, transparent and can be seen only with a microscope. Pinworm infections are spread person-to-person by ingesting pinworm eggs that have contaminated fingers, bed linens, clothing, nightclothes, or other items. The major signs and symptoms of pinworm infection are discomfort and itching in the anal/rectal area. Children especially will scratch the rectal/anal area, get eggs on their fingers or underneath their fingernails and transport the infective eggs to bedding, toys, other humans, or back to themselves. Other signs and symptoms may include: Discomfort in the anal and/or vaginal area Rash or skin irritation around the anus or vagina Insomnia or difficulty sleeping and/or restlessness due to irritation of skin Pinworms can often be seen on the anal skin or in the stools, sometimes detected in the vagina and may produce some vaginal discharge Some infected individuals may have abdominal pain. Some […]
What’s new in colonoscopy? There are several new developments in colonoscopy. Most of these center around improving the detection of difficult-to-see lesions — small ones (for example, small polyps) and flat ones — as well as the ability to determine at the time of colonoscopy whether or not polyps and lesions need to be biopsied or removed because they may contain premalignant or malignant tissue. This is important because many of these lesions are not premalignant or malignant, and a lot of time and money is spent removing them and sending them for microscopic examination unnecessarily. High resolution images that allow better detection of flat lesions have become standard on most colonoscopes. Magnification of the images also may improve the detection of the lesions. Narrow-band imaging uses a special wavelength of light that enhances the pattern of tiny blood vessels that lie just below the lining of the colon. The pattern of these vessels is different in normal, premalignant and malignant tissue. Determination of the pattern allows lesions, particularly premalignant and malignant flat lesions, to be identified more easily and also allows a decision to be made as to whether or not the lesion should be biopsied or removed at […]
(HealthDay News) — Over half of U.S. households have pets, but unfortunately millions of Americans are allergic to animals. The best way to manage symptoms of pet allergies is to avoid pets, says the American Academy of Asthma and Immunology. Latest Allergies News Other ways to minimize symptoms include: Don’t hug or kiss pets. Keep pets out of your bedroom. Use HEPA filter air cleaners. Remove carpeting and rugs. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Following on from a series of similar studies, researchers are once again investigating whether acetaminophen can influence our psychology. This time, the focus is on positive empathy. Could acetaminophen reduce our ability to demonstrate empathy? Acetaminophen is one of the most commonly used drugs globally. It offers quick relief from mild pain and is readily available over the counter. Although the medical community considers acetaminophen to be a relatively safe and useful drug, a recent study asks whether it might have an unexpected effect on the population at large. Researchers from Ohio University in Athens are examining its effect on our ability to empathize with others. Lead author Dominik Mischkowski has been interested in this unusual topic for some time. The psychology of pain relievers Although the idea that a popular analgesic might have a psychological effect seems surprising, Mischkowski is not the only person to have investigated it. For instance, a 2010 paper concluded that acetaminophen “reduced neural responses to social rejection.” In other words, it appeared to reduce psychological pain. A study from 2015 concluded that acetaminophen blunted “evaluative and emotional processing,” while a more recent study involving people with borderline personality disorder found that acetaminophen increased their […]
A drug that scientists originally developed to treat depression may have promise for the treatment of opioid withdrawal, researchers say. A new experimental drug may help reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms. Opioid withdrawal is a challenging experience, and although there are medications already on the market that can help curb the symptoms of withdrawal, these drugs cause negative side effects. Current withdrawal medications also often require people to take them for a prolonged period, which is not ideal and could lead to a relapse. There may be encouraging news on the horizon, however. New research highlights the possible benefits of an experimental drug called rapastinel, which scientists initially created to help those with major depressive disorder. This new research showed that rats responded positively to rapastinel in opioid withdrawal studies. The researchers noted that rapastinel had a significant effect on withdrawal in just a few days, which could make it a candidate for future testing in human participants in a clinical setting. The first few days after halting opioid use can be very difficult because the withdrawal symptoms can be exceptionally severe. This stage is when rapastinel could potentially be useful, as it may help ease those symptoms without the additional […]
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Almost one in three people will develop shingles in their lifetime. There are roughly one million cases reported in the United States annually. Even though you may be living a healthy lifestyle, you could still be at risk.
What causes Shingles?
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