Latest Sleep News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — More Americans are having trouble falling and staying asleep, and smartphones and technology are probably to blame, researchers report. Their analysis of data from nearly 165,000 adults nationwide showed that the number who reported difficulty falling asleep at least once a week was up 1.4% […]
By Adam Townsend on 11/12/2019 3:51 PM Latest Sleep News Source: MedicineNet Health News What happens to your brain when you fall asleep? New real-time brain imaging has shed more light on what happens to our brains in the dark; slow waves of fluid wash in and out of our skull and carry away harmful […]
Latest Sleep News SUNDAY, Nov. 10, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Nearly nine in 10 American adults lose sleep to binge watch TV, a new survey finds. The more than 2,000 U.S. adults who took part in the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) poll in September ranked sleep as their second-highest priority, with family being […]
Latest Sleep News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 6, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Requiring drivers to get treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) saved a trucking company a large amount in insurance costs for other health conditions, a new study shows. People with apnea repeatedly stop breathing and wake partially during the night, resulting in poor sleep that […]
Latest Sleep News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 6, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Sleep problems could increase your risk for heart attack, stroke and other heart and brain diseases, a new study suggests. It included 487,200 people in China, average age 51, with no history of stroke or heart disease. They were asked if they had any of […]
Latest Sleep News MONDAY, Nov. 4, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Clocks were set back one hour on Sunday, but some health experts say it might be better if time changes ended for good. It’s more than an inconvenience, it’s a potential health threat, they warn. Over time, daylight saving time (DST) eliminates bright morning light […]
Latest Sleep News FRIDAY, Nov. 1, 2019 (HealthDay News) –When the clocks fall back this Sunday, more than 4 in 10 Americans plan to sleep during that extra hour, a new survey finds. The American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) asked more than 2,000 adults what they plan to do with the extra hour when […]
By Amy NortonHealthDay Reporter Latest Sleep News THURSDAY, Oct. 31, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The deep stages of sleep may give the brain a chance to wash itself free of potentially toxic substances, a new study suggests. Researchers found that during deep sleep, the “slow-wave” activity of nerve cells appears to make room for cerebral […]
Latest Sleep News MONDAY, Oct. 28, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Nearly half of American adults admit that they’ve fought to stay awake while driving, a new survey finds. Of the more than 2,000 respondents, 45% said they’d struggled to remain awake while behind the wheel, while 48% said they’d never driven drowsy, according to the […]
(HealthDay News) — Yawning typically occurs when you feel sleepy or bored, says Cleveland Clinic. People do not yawn because the brain needs more oxygen, the clinic notes in dispelling a common myth. Instead, yawns allow us to regulate both air pressure in our ears and brain temperature. Latest Sleep News Yawns are not really […]
18November
2019
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron for the body to use as needed. Many parts of the body contain ferritin, including the spleen, liver, blood, and hair follicles. When a person has a low ferritin count, they will also be low in iron. Because hair follicles contain ferritin, some people think that raising ferritin and iron levels will restore healthy hair. However, it is important to get an accurate diagnosis and treatment from a doctor because too much iron can cause problems. Doctors may use a ferritin test to check for the levels of iron in the body. Keep reading to learn more about the relationship between ferritin levels and hair growth. Share on PinterestA doctor may prescribe iron supplements if they suspect low ferritin levels are the cause of hair loss. Iron plays a vital role in many essential bodily processes. Without iron, the body cannot create enough red blood cells. Find out more about the role of iron in the body. Red blood cells transport oxygen around the body. When there are fewer red blood cells available, the body has difficulty transporting oxygen to the various organs and tissues. This can cause a range of problems, including […]
18November
2019
Although most people know that they must handle animal products appropriately to prevent illness, fruits and vegetables can also carry harmful germs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) estimate that around 48 million people every year get sick from eating contaminated food. In recent years, outbreaks of foodborne illnesses have occurred due to bacteria on cantaloupe, lettuce, tomatoes, and spinach. People who eat contaminated produce can get sick and even require hospitalization. In this article, we look at why it is important to wash fruits and vegetables, including pesticides and possible contamination. Share on PinterestWashing fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of illness from food contamination. People should thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before cooking or eating them. Produce that the manufacturer has prewashed does not require further rinsing, however. There are two main risks of eating unwashed fruits and vegetables: bacterial contamination and pesticides. In recent years, many outbreaks of foodborne illness have come from contaminated cantaloupe, spinach, tomatoes, and lettuce. In 2016, for example, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) investigated an outbreak of listeriosis that hospitalized 19 people. One person died from the infection. More recently, in January 2019, the CDC, FDA, and health […]
18November
2019
Tree nut allergies are common, and they include reactions to almonds, cashews, and walnuts. An allergy to peanuts is not technically a nut allergy. Learn more about nut allergies here.
18November
2019
Both headaches and nosebleeds are very common, and they are usually not a cause for concern. When they occur at the same time, however, people might think that they are linked. In many cases, having a headache and a nosebleed at the same time is a coincidence. In other cases, everyday factors such as the common cold or seasonal allergies can cause both symptoms. Rarely, there may be a more serious cause. Keep reading for more information about headaches and nosebleeds, their causes, symptoms, and treatments. Share on PinterestThe common cold may cause both a nosebleed and a headache. A nosebleed can occur if a person has a broken or burst blood vessel inside the nose. Blood vessels in this area are sensitive and may break due to skin dryness or injury, such as a blow to the nose while playing sports. Headaches have a wide range of potential causes, and there are many different types. Some common causes include stress, dehydration, and diet. Headaches and nosebleeds are not usually linked. However, some environmental or medical factors can cause both to occur at the same time. Everyday factors that might cause both a headache and a nosebleed include: the common […]
18November
2019
One antibody injection allowed 11 of 15 adults with severe peanut allergy to eat a small amount of nut protein 15 days later with no allergic reaction.
18November
2019
New research finds that following a diet rich in plant-based foods and low in animal products during midlife is associated with a significantly lower risk of cognitive impairment later in life. Share on PinterestEating a plant-based diet in midlife may prevent later cognitive decline. According to the latest estimates from the United Nations, there are currently 137 million people over the age of 80 worldwide. Experts expect this number to triple by 2050, reaching 425 million. The number of people with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia is also on the rise. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the United States alone, there are currently 5 million adults living with Alzheimer’s. This number is also likely to triple within the next few decades. As the population continues to age, it is becoming increasingly important to be able to identify modifiable risk factors for conditions such as Alzheimer’s, as well as any lifestyle changes that may prevent neurodegenerative conditions such as this from developing in the first place. New research points to nutrition as one such factor. Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in animal products such as meat […]
18November
2019
New research finds that the common fire retardant Firemaster 550 (FM 550) makes both male and female prairie voles less sociable and more anxious. The findings shed new light on how exposure to such chemicals affects the social brain. Share on PinterestVoles are usually very sociable, but new research shows that exposure to a certain chemical mixture makes them more isolated and anxious. Our homes contain varieties of questionable substances that researchers have linked with adverse health outcomes. From cleaning and personal hygiene products to those coating our furniture and floors, numerous potentially harmful chemicals exist in the environments that humans have created. Among these substances are flame retardants, phthalates, and other chemicals used as preservatives or disinfectants. Some of the potential health hazards that researchers have linked with such compounds include neurodevelopmental defects, breathing problems, and endocrine dysfunction. While researchers and public health authorities do not have definitive evidence of a link between, for example, a common class of fire retardants called polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and cancer or diabetes, some studies in rodents have suggested that there may be an association. Now, new research examines the effect of a common flame retardant mixture on the socioemotional behavior of […]
18November
2019
Three new studies shed fresh light on penicillin allergy, pointing out that many people who have been allergic in their childhood may no longer be so.
18November
2019
Latest Women’s Health News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Antibacterial drug Fetroja (cefiderocol) has been approved to treat patients aged 18 years and older with complicated urinary tract infections (cUTIs), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced yesterday. The drug is indicated for patients with limited or no alternative treatment options for cUTI, including kidney infections caused by susceptible Gram-negative microorganisms. Dosage is 2 g of Fetroja every eight hours administered by intravenous infusion over three hours. Dose adjustments are required based on creatinine clearance. Prescription labeling on Fetroja includes a warning for a higher all-cause mortality rate in Fetroja-treated critically ill patients with multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections. Approval of Fetroja was based on safety and efficacy data from 448 patients with cUTI in the APEKS-cUTI study. Symptoms resolved and bacteria were eradicated in 72.6 percent of patients who received Fetroja seven days after treatment completion versus 54.6 percent of patients who received imipenem/cilastatin. Clinical response rates were similar between the two groups of patients. The cause of the higher mortality rate with Fetroja in critically ill patients with multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacterial infections is unknown. According to the FDA, some of the deaths were due to worsening or […]
18November
2019
(HealthDay News) — Tripping over a box or slipping on a wet floor could leave you with a broken bone. And a fall could easily send an older person to the hospital, says the National Institute on Aging. Latest Prevention & Wellness News If you fall, stay calm and follow the agency’s recommendations: Take several deep breaths to try to relax. Remain still on the ground for a few moments. If you are hurt or cannot get up on your own, ask for help or call 911. If you are alone, try to get into a comfortable position and wait for help to arrive. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SLIDESHOW 8 First Aid Kit Essentials for Scrapes, Cuts, Bug Bites, and More in Pictures See Slideshow
18November
2019
Latest Prevention & Wellness News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — As temperatures plummet across the U.S., people should take steps to prevent weather-related threats to their health, one expert says. Seniors and children are at particular risk, the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) warns. “Winter storms raise the risk of car accidents, frostbite, hypothermia and other emergencies,” ACEP president Dr. William Jaquis said in a college news release. “A little preparation goes a long way. If you encounter bad weather, try to stay off the roads and limit your time outside.” A major threat is hypothermia, which occurs when body temperature cools too fast and drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Signs of hypothermia include drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, weak pulse or shallow breathing. Slower thinking abilities, impaired decision making and declining motor skills can make it harder to protect yourself. “One reason hypothermia is so dangerous is that you may not recognize your condition worsening,” Jaquis said. “There are actually stories of people in extreme cold feeling warm, removing their winter coats and unintentionally putting themselves in even more danger.” People with some medical conditions — including diabetics with low blood sugar or smokers with impaired circulation […]
18November
2019
What are pregnancy discomforts causes? Hormonal changes are the main cause for pregnancy discomforts such as morning sickness (nausea and vomiting), constipation, frequent urination early in pregnancy, skin color changes (mask of pregnancy or chloasma), yeast infections, mood swings, insomnia, headaches and migraines, and nasal congestion. Breast swelling and pain may be a result of increasing breast size and milk ducts expanding. Fatigue is often a result of the growing baby’s energy requirements. In some cases, fatigue is due to anemia (low blood iron), which is common during pregnancy. Hemorrhoids may occur during pregnancy as pressure on the rectum from the growing baby combines with an increased blood volume. In addition to hormones, constipation is due the growing baby putting pressure on the intestines, and increased iron intake from prenatal vitamins. The growing baby and expanding uterus also put pressure on the stomach and intestines, which can cause contents to reflux (come back up into the esophagus). Varicose veins in the legs and around the vaginal opening may be caused by increased pressure on the legs and the pelvic veins and increased blood volume. Swelling/bloating/fluid retention is caused by pressure from the growing uterus on the blood vessels carrying blood […]
18November
2019
Latest Pregnancy News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Pregnancy-related high blood pressure puts women at higher risk of heart disease later on, new research suggests. In the study, researchers analyzed an average of seven years of follow-up data on more than 220,000 women in the United Kingdom. Those who had gestational high blood pressure or preeclampsia in at least one pregnancy had stiffer arteries, and two to five times the rate of chronic high blood pressure later on, the findings showed. These women were more likely to develop heart problems, including coronary artery disease, heart failure and valve disease, according to the report published online Nov. 11 in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Up to half the risk was driven by chronic high blood pressure, the investigators found. That “implies that treating high blood pressure may be especially important in this population,” said study lead author Dr. Michael Honigberg. He’s a cardiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston. Future research could assess new ways of treating high blood pressure (“hypertension“) or simply treating it more aggressively in women who have had it at least once during pregnancy, Honigberg suggested. “Research over the past decade has […]
18November
2019
By Serena GordonHealthDay Reporter Latest Healthy Kids News MONDAY, Nov. 18, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The HPV vaccine gives parents a chance to prevent their children from developing some types of cancer, and two new studies reaffirm what past research has found — the vaccine is safe. The two studies included millions of doses of Gardasil 9 vaccine, the only vaccine currently used in the United States for the prevention of HPV-related cancers. “The data from our study was very reassuring. We saw nothing unexpected or surprising. With Gardasil 9, we can now prevent a large portion of cervical, oropharyngeal [mouth, tongue and throat] and other cancers,” said one of the studies’ lead author, Dr. James Donahue. He’s an epidemiologist with the Marshfield Clinic Research Institute in Wisconsin. The studies and an accompanying editorial were published Nov. 18 in the journal Pediatrics. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a sexually transmitted virus. It’s estimated that 79 million people in the United States are already infected with HPV. Around 14 million new infections with HPV occur every year. About half of those are teens and young adults, according to the editorial. Sometimes these infections get better on their own, but many do not. […]
18November
2019
Latest Healthy Kids News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Of all sports, football sends the most U.S. males to the emergency room, while cheerleading and gymnastics most often do the same for women and girls, a new report finds. And, overall, U.S. emergency departments see about 2.7 million patients between the ages of 5 and 24 for sports-related injuries each year, according to a new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In some cases, these injuries might even be a gateway to opioid addiction: Opioid painkillers were given to ER patients suffering from a sports injury in about one in five cases, the study found. That number rose to nearly half (46%) among young adults aged 20 to 24. “As we have learned from the opioid crisis, many patients move from appropriately prescribed opioid medications to misuse of opioids,” noted Dr. Teresa Amato, who directs emergency medicine at Northwell Health’s Long Island Jewish Forest Hills, in Forest Hills, N.Y. She wasn’t involved in the new research. “I would encourage any parent with a child that has a sports-related injury who is being evaluated in an emergency department to have an open and frank discussion […]
18November
2019
MONDAY, Nov. 18, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Two-pound frozen bags of Go Raw’s Quest Beef Cat Food have been recalled due to possible salmonella contamination, the company says. Latest Infectious Disease News The recalled products were distributed to retail stores across the United States and can be identified by the following: UPC 6-91730-17101-8, Lot N128. No illnesses associated with the recalled products have been reported to date, according to the Utah-based company. Consumers who bought 2-pound bags of Quest Beef Cat Food should return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. For more information, contact Go Raw at 801-432-7478. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. QUESTION Bowel regularity means a bowel movement every day. See Answer
18November
2019
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Heart News MONDAY, Nov. 18, 2019 (HealthDay News) — A pricey high-tech pump that maintains blood flow during heart procedures could be more dangerous to patients than its low-tech predecessor, a pair of new studies finds. The Impella device is associated with an increased risk of death, bleeding and stroke among patients undergoing angioplasty to re-open clogged arteries, two separate research teams concluded in presentations Sunday at the American Heart Association’s annual meeting in Philadelphia. Using the device also jacks up costs, adding about $15,000 to the average hospital price tag, the researchers report. “The associated clinical outcomes did not show any substantial improvement, while costs of hospitalization rose,” said Dr. Amit Amin, lead researcher for one of the two teams and an assistant professor at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis. Doctors might want to be more judicious using the Impella until further research clears up these concerns, said Dr. Ranya Sweis, a cardiologist with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine who commented on the two studies. “Don’t jump to the Impella just because it’s new and it’s cool,” Sweis said. But the device’s manufacturer, Abiomed, countered that Impella’s safety has […]
18November
2019
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Heart News SUNDAY, Nov. 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — A cheap drug that’s been around for centuries as a gout treatment might also shield heart attack survivors from future heart crises, new trial results show. The drug, colchicine, is derived from a plant called the autumn crocus, researchers explained Saturday at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association, in Philadelphia. In the new trial, colchicine reduced by as much as 34% a heart attack survivor’s combined risk of either dying from heart disease or having cardiac arrest, a heart attack, a stroke or angioplasty. Experts described the study as a “landmark” effort. “These results provide confirmation that inflammation management reduces cardiovascular risk, and it was an example of a successful repurposing of a broadly available and relatively safe generic drug for a new application,” said Dr. Aruna Pradhan, a preventive medicine doctor at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. Colchicine currently is used to treat gout and pericarditis (inflammation of the heart’s lining), two conditions caused by inflammation, said lead researcher Dr. Jean-Claude Tardif, director of research at the Montreal Heart Institute. “You just give a few tablets of colchicine and the pain, the […]
18November
2019
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Heart News SUNDAY, Nov. 17, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Bypass operations, angioplasty and the placement of artery-opening stents: For decades, millions of Americans have undergone these expensive, invasive procedures to help treat clogged vessels. However, the results of a large and long-awaited clinical trial suggests that, in most cases, these procedures may not have provided any benefit over medications and lifestyle changes. In fact, people treated with meds and healthy changes in lifestyle wound up about as healthy as those who underwent an invasive procedure to open their hardened arteries, researchers reported Saturday at the American Heart Association (AHA) annual meeting in Philadelphia. Only a subgroup of patients who suffered from frequent angina appeared to receive any benefit from an invasive procedure, and that benefit was in their quality of life, not in lowering their odds of death or future heart problems. “Based on the trial results to date, I as a clinician would feel comfortable advising my patient not to undergo the invasive strategy if their angina was absent or controlled or it was tolerated,” said Dr. Alice Jacobs, director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory and Interventional Cardiology at Boston Medical Center. She wasn’t […]
18November
2019
Latest Heart News SATURDAY, Nov. 16, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Routine fasting may reduce the risk of heart failure and death in patients who have cardiac catheterization, a new study suggests. It included more than 2,000 patients who had cardiac catheterization between 2013 and 2015. They were followed for 4.5 years afterward. Those who fasted regularly had a higher survival rate during follow-up than those who did not, according to researchers at Intermountain Healthcare Heart Institute in Salt Lake City, Utah. Fasting was a strong predictor of survival and lower risk of heart failure even after lifestyle behaviors, medications, heart risk factors and other health problems were taken into account. “It’s another example of how we’re finding that regularly fasting can lead to better health outcomes and longer lives,” principal investigator Benjamin Horne said in an institute news release. Horne is the institute’s director of cardiovascular and genetic epidemiology. Intermittent fasting is a diet method where one skips food or limits calories for up to 24 hours, or limits the time spent eating during the day, such as from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. While the study only found an association and does not prove fasting improves survival, the researchers […]
18November
2019
Latest Heart News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — It was a race with life-or-death implications: Unmanned drones were pitted against traditional emergency responders to see which could get an automated external defibrillator to the rural site of a simulated cardiac arrest first. The drones won handily. And the Canadian researcher behind the test said such a system might be ready for the real world in as little as a year. The results are being presented Saturday as preliminary findings at the American Heart Association’s Resuscitation Science Symposium in Philadelphia. This project builds on research showing that, in theory, a network of AED-delivering drones might save lives. But the new study’s lead author, Dr. Sheldon Cheskes, medical director at the Sunnybrook Center for Prehospital Medicine in Toronto, said this test showed drones could work in the real world. Each year in the U.S., more than 350,000 people outside of hospitals have a cardiac arrest, when the heart stops beating because its electrical system malfunctions. Only about 10% survive. AEDs are small devices that can shock a heart back to a normal rhythm. More are being placed in public places, Cheskes said, but most cardiac arrests happen in […]
18November
2019
What is drug resistance testing? Drug-resistance testing also has become a key tool in the management of HIV-infected individuals. Resistance testing is now routinely used in individuals experiencing poor responses to HIV therapy or treatment failure. In general, a poor response to initial treatment would include individuals who fail to experience a decline in viral load of approximately hundredfold in the first weeks, have a viral load of greater than 500 copies per mL by week 12, or have levels greater than 50 copies per mL by week 24. Treatment failure would generally be defined as an increase in viral load after an initial decline in a person who is believed to be consistently taking his or her medications. Because drug-resistant viruses can be transmitted, guidelines from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) (https://aidsinfo.nih.gov/) and International Antiviral Society-USA (IAS-USA) have suggested that resistance testing be performed in individuals who have never been on therapy to determine if they might have acquired HIV that is resistant to drugs. The goals of antiviral therapy are to enhance immunity and delay or prevent clinical advancement to symptomatic disease without inducing important side effects or selecting for drug-resistant virus. Currently, the […]
18November
2019
Latest Diabetes News MONDAY, Nov. 18, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Diabetes might be more deadly for women than men, at least when it comes to heart troubles, new research shows. Heart disease occurs an average of 15 years earlier in people with diabetes, and is their main cause of illness and death. In women, the connection between diabetes and heart disease is particularly strong. Worldwide, more women die due to diabetes than men, 2.1 million versus 1.8 million a year, the researchers said. Coronary heart disease is the most common and deadly type of heart disease in people with diabetes. Women with diabetes have a 1.8 times higher risk of death from coronary heart disease than women without diabetes. Men with diabetes have a 1.5 times higher risk of death from coronary heart disease than men without diabetes. Peripheral artery disease — which can eventually lead to foot amputation — is the most common initial sign of heart disease in type 2 diabetes patients, and it is 1.8 times more common in women than men. Heart failure is the second most common initial sign of heart disease in type 2 diabetes patients. Women with diabetes have a five times higher […]
18November
2019
By Steven ReinbergHealthDay Reporter Latest Cold and Flu News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Whether you have caught the flu yet this season might depend on where you live. Flu levels are already climbing throughout the South, particularly in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia and South Carolina, and Puerto Rico, according to the latest statistics from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As for the rest of the country, things are relatively quiet — so far. Regardless of what region of the country you reside in, vaccination is still a good idea. “If you haven’t been vaccinated, you need to go ahead and do that because vaccine is the best way to protect against influenza,” said Lynnette Brammer, the leader of CDC’s domestic influenza surveillance team. As for folks in the South, Brammer noted that the strain of flu that is showing up there is a bit odd. “It’s really a little bit unusual in the fact that some regions are having influenza B wave early,” she said. “It’s been a long time since we’ve had a B-predominant season.” The last flu season when B strains predominated was in 1992-1993, Brammer said. Meanwhile, the rest of […]
18November
2019
By Amy NortonHealthDay Reporter Latest Alzheimer’s News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Many Americans believe they are likely to develop dementia — and they often turn to unproven ways to try to better their odds, a new study suggests. In a survey, researchers found that almost half of Americans in their 50s and 60s believed they were at least “somewhat likely” to develop dementia. Yet few — 5% — said they had talked to their doctor about ways to lower their risk. Instead, one-third or more were taking fish oil, vitamin E or other supplements to help ward off memory decline — even though none have been proven to have such benefits. “It certainly seems like people believe that supplements or fish oil help preserve their memory,” said lead researcher Dr. Donovan Maust, a geriatric psychiatrist at the University of Michigan, in Ann Arbor. Maust said that might reflect “excitement” over initial research suggesting that certain supplements might ward off memory decline — excitement that wasn’t tempered when later studies failed to show benefits. The findings, published online Nov. 15 in JAMA Neurology, are based on 1,019 adults aged 50 to 64 who were surveyed in 2018. They […]
17November
2019
A study finds that increased activity over the age of 60 can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Share on PinterestNew research examines the impact of physical activity in people over the age of 60. In 2015, 900 million people, globally, were over the age of 60. By 2050, the World Health Organization (WHO) expect that number to reach 2 billion. While it is common for people to become less active as age takes a toll on one’s physical capabilities, a study just published in the European Heart Journalfinds that either maintaining levels of activity or becoming more active at this stage of life is important for reducing the risks of heart attack and stroke. The researchers found that study participants who reduced their levels of exercise over time had a 27% greater likelihood of developing heart and blood vessel issues. Those who became more active reduced their risk by as much as 11%. Studying physical activity in older age The authors of the study — led by Kyuwoong Kim, of the Department of Biomedical Sciences, at Seoul National University, in South Korea — analyzed data from 1,119,925 men and women 60 years or older. The data had been […]
17November
2019
It is common knowledge that exercise is good for physical health, but a new study shows that it can also help curtail episodes of depression, even in those who have an increased genetic risk. Share on PinterestNew research suggests that any physical exercise can drastically cut the risk of depressive episodes. According to the researchers, who are from the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, the study is the first of its kind. The paper, which appears in the journal Depression and Anxiety, shows that physical activity can positively affect the risk of depression — even when there is a higher genetic risk. Lead author Karmel Choi, Ph.D., and her colleagues consulted genomic and electronic health record data from almost 8,000 participants in the Partners Biobank. Over 2 years, Choi and team looked through millions of data points to find people who had diagnoses relating to depression. Additionally, the researchers calculated a genetic risk score for each participant, which involved combining information across the person’s entire genome to come up with a score to demonstrate their genetic risk of developing depression. Exercise linked with lower depression risk When the researchers looked at the participants whose score indicated a higher genetic risk […]
16November
2019
Sleeping problems can affect both mental and physical health. Now, a large-scale analysis in China highlights how insomnia might lead to potentially life threatening cardiovascular diseases. Share on PinterestNew research points to concerning links between insomnia and cardiovascular problems. Insomnia is a relatively widespread problem. When a person has insomnia, they often struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep. Some people experience both. Around 1 in 4 adults in the United States experience short-term, or acute, insomnia every year, according to research carried out at the University of Pennsylvania, PA. Acute insomnia typically means that a person experiences sleep problems for just a short period, perhaps due to stress or worry. Approximately three-quarters of these people return to their regular sleeping patterns. Others, however, go on to develop chronic insomnia. Chronic insomnia refers to a person who experiences problems sleeping for at least 3 nights a week for no less than 3 months. Both acute and chronic insomnia can result in daytime drowsiness, concentration and memory problems, and a lack of energy. But studies have found more worrying links. One recent analysis, appearing in Sleep Medicine Reviews, linked insomnia to the onset of depression, anxiety, and alcohol misuse. Other studies […]
16November
2019
Are omega-3 supplements as beneficial as researchers once believed? Not when it comes to inflammation, a new study suggests. Share on PinterestOmega-3 supplements are not as beneficial for health as people once thought. Recent studies show that taking supplements to increase vitamin D and omega-3 levels may not reduce systemic inflammation. The new research, which drew from the VITAL study, aimed to determine the biomarker levels of several inflammation indicators in people either taking or not taking vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acid supplements, or fish oil. After 1 year, the study found no marked difference in levels between the two groups. Dr. Karen Costenbader — the director of the Lupus Program in the Division of Rheumatology, Inflammation, and Immunity at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, MA — is the corresponding author of the study. The results now appear in the journal Clinical Chemistry. Why are markers of inflammation important? Inflammation is a key prognostic marker of several life threatening conditions — especially those associated with aging and obesity. These include cardiovascular disease, heart failure, osteoporosis, some neurodegenerative conditions (including Alzheimer’s disease), diabetes, and some cancers. Many people use vitamin D supplements and fish oil to reduce systemic […]
15November
2019
Crohn’s disease is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It is a chronic condition that can cause inflammation anywhere in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, which runs from the mouth to the anus. However, this condition most often affects the small intestine. There is no single test to diagnose Crohn’s disease. A doctor might need to order a few different tests to confirm a diagnosis of this condition. Keep reading to learn more about the different tests for diagnosing Crohn’s disease. Share on PinterestA blood test can help a doctor diagnose Crohn’s disease. A doctor will often order an assortment of tests to help diagnose Crohn’s disease. These tests may include the following: Blood tests Doctors may conduct a blood test to search for signs of infection, anemia, or inflammation relating to Crohn’s disease. Stool tests A stool test can help identify signs of the disease in the stool, such as mucus or blood. Imaging tests A doctor might order an imaging test, such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI scan, to get a picture of the person’s internal structures. A CT or MRI scan might require the person to drink a contrast solution or receive contrast intravenously. Doctors often […]
15November
2019
Depression is one of the most common mood disorders in the United States. It causes persistent sadness and limits a person’s ability to go about their daily activities. However, depression is treatable, and people can recover from it. Both lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help individuals feel better. Typically, managing depression is an ongoing process. In this article, we list 16 strategies and treatments that can help fight depression. Share on PinterestA person with depression can try educating their friends and family members about what triggers their episodes. The more a person knows about depression, the more empowered they will be to find a treatment that works for them. It can be helpful to learn about depression in general, including its causes and symptoms. It is also important for people to get to know their own symptoms and warning signs so that if they are feeling worse, they can identify this. Knowing what prompts depressive episodes can help people avoid or manage triggers, which may reduce future depressive episodes. Educating friends and family members can also help, as loved ones can watch out for warning signs and be supportive when a person is having a difficult time. Reaching out […]
15November
2019
If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Sulfates are a class of chemicals that manufacturers use as cleansing or foaming agents. Many household products, such as foaming cleansers, toothpaste, and shampoos, contain sulfates. Sulfates provide the foamy texture that occurs when a person mixes a product, such as a shampoo, with water. Some people have concerns about the inclusion of sulfates in their cleansing products and shampoos. When people use them correctly in normal quantities, sulfates are generally safe. However, some people may be more sensitive to specific products, and there are times when a person should avoid sulfates. Keep reading to find out more about sulfates, why products contain them, and who should avoid them. Sulfates are types of chemicals called surfactants that play an important role in the effectiveness of shampoos. Surfactants lower the surface tension of the liquid they are in, which makes the liquid easier to mix with water and work up into a good foam. Share on PinterestA shampoo may contain surfactants to make the liquid easier to mix with water.The foaming action means that a person can spread the shampoo over a […]
15November
2019
If you buy something through a link on this page, we may earn a small commission. How this works. Saffron is a spice with a strong fragrance and distinctive color. The spice is also rich in antioxidants, which may have many health benefits. Early evidence suggests that saffron may boost mood, increase libido, and fight oxidative stress. Saffron is generally safe for most people to consume, and it is very simple to add it to the diet. In this article, learn more about the possible health benefits of saffron. Share on PinterestThe antioxidants in saffron may help fight against oxidative stress. Saffron is a spice from the Crocus sativus flower, which is a cousin of the lily. The saffron derives from the stigma and styles — called threads — within the flower itself. Saffron is very expensive due to the difficulty of harvesting it. Farmers must harvest the delicate threads from each flower by hand. They then heat and cure the threads to bring out the flavor of the saffron. This extra labor makes saffron one of the most expensive spices in the world. The benefits of saffron may include: Providing antioxidants The majority of the health claims surrounding saffron […]
15November
2019
Homeopathy for anxiety uses mixtures of herbal, mineral, and other natural products to relieve anxiety symptoms. These very dilute homeopathic concoctions would sometimes be toxic in high doses. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America report that anxiety is the most prevalent mental health condition in the United States, affecting 18.1% of the adult population each year. While many people experience relief from therapy, others find that therapy alone is not enough. Anti-anxiety medications may work for some people but can also trigger unpleasant side effects. While there is little scientific evidence to support it, some people find homeopathy helpful. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) do not regulate homeopathic treatments, so the ingredients in these treatments may be less consistent and, in some cases, dangerous. It is essential to speak to a doctor before trying homeopathic approaches. Share on PinterestA person should speak to their doctor before trying any homeopathy product. The theory behind homeopathy is that “like cures like,” and the lower the dosage, the more effective a treatment can be. If a person has an illness, a practitioner may recommend that they take very low doses of a substance that would cause the same symptoms as their […]
15November
2019
Many people notice that their bowel habits change predictably throughout their monthly menstrual cycle. This shift in pattern is because the bowel is affected by period-related hormone changes. During each menstrual cycle, the body goes through many hormonal shifts. These changes affect the whole body, leading to familiar premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms such as mood swings, cramps, and digestive changes. Bowel movement changes during menstruation can include constipation, diarrhea, or more frequent bowel movements. One study reported that 73% of females experienced period-related gastrointestinal symptoms. Some people describe these changes as “period poop.” In this article, we look at possible reasons why periods can affect bowel movements and some tips for managing the symptoms. The following sections discuss the bodily changes that occur just before or during a menstrual period that may affect bowel movements. Increased muscle contractions Share on PinterestA person may experience muscle contractions just before their period. Just before menstruation, the body releases hormones known as prostaglandins. These hormones stimulate muscle contractions in the uterus. These contractions help the body to shed the uterus lining. At the same time, the period hormones may stimulate muscle contractions in the intestines and bowels, which are close to the uterus, […]
15November
2019
Precision targeting of bacteria in a different way to antibiotics shows promise as a treatment for alcoholic liver disease, according to new research in mice. Share on PinterestTargeting a specific bacterium has helped scientists eliminate alcoholic liver disease in mice. A recent Nature study paper describes how an international team of scientists used bacteriophages, which are viruses that kill bacteria, to eradicate alcoholic liver disease in mice. They used a particular mixture of phages to selectively eliminate Enterococcus faecalis, a gut bacterium that releases a toxin that kills liver cells. They found that people with alcoholic liver disease had more E. faecalis in their guts than people without this condition. In addition, they saw that levels of the bacterium correlated with disease severity. “We not only linked a specific bacterial toxin to worse clinical outcomes in [people] with alcoholic liver disease, we found a way to break that link by precisely editing gut microbiota with phages,” says senior study author Bernd Schnabl, a professor of medicine and gastroenterology at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine. Alcoholic liver disease on the rise in the US Alcoholic liver disease is a major global public health concern. In fact, it […]
15November
2019
Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania have found that people who are taller also have a higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a common heart condition, and that there may be a genetic link. Share on PinterestBeing tall can make a person more prone to atrial fibrillation, new research confirms. Atrial fibrillation is a condition characterized by an abnormal heartbeat — the heart may beat too fast, too slow, or the beats may be irregular. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), around 2.7–6.1 million people in the United States have atrial fibrillation. Though some people are unaware that they have it, due to a lack of obvious symptoms, atrial fibrillation can increase a person’s risk of stroke. Meanwhile, over 750,000 people end up in the hospital each year because of this heart problem, as per CDC data. Recent research has shown that cases of atrial fibrillation have been on the rise, forecasting an “epidemic.” But if people know that they are at risk of developing this condition, they can take steps to prevent it. They can also be better prepared to manage it, if it does develop. Some recognized risk factors for atrial fibrillation include high […]
15November
2019
Specialists warn that single number average survival estimates for advanced stage breast cancer are unhelpful and usually inaccurate. Instead, they advise doctors to provide several case-specific survival estimates to help people plan with realism and hope. Share on PinterestWhat is a more helpful approach when it comes to discussing survival rate estimates for late stage breast cancer? Breast cancer is the form of cancer that affects women the most often — about 2.1 million women worldwide receive a cancer diagnosis in one year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Breast cancer is one of the most treatable forms of cancer, but when it metastasizes in its later stages, removing tumors becomes more difficult, which can have a significant effect on the survival rate. Understandably, people with late stage breast cancer are interested in receiving survival rate estimates from their doctors so that they can make the most appropriate healthcare choices and plan accordingly. “Every week in my clinic, I meet women of all ages with advanced breast cancer, and they frequently ask: ‘How long have I got?’ They have very practical concerns and questions that they want help with; for example, they might want to know whether they should […]
15November
2019
What is zanamivir, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Zanamivir is an inhaled drug that is used for treating and preventing influenza (the “flu“). Zanamivir decreases the spread of influenza A and B viruses, the viruses responsible for the flu. It does this by blocking the action of neuraminidase, an enzyme produced by the viruses that enables the viruses to spread from infected cells to healthy cells. By preventing the spread of virus from cell to cell, the symptoms and duration of influenza infection are reduced. On average, zanamivir reduces the duration of symptoms by one day if treatment is started within forty-eight hours after symptoms begin. The FDA approved zanamivir in July 1999. The brand name for Zanamivir is Relenza. Zanamivir is available over-the-counter (OTC). What are the side effects of zanamivir? The most frequent side effects are: Other important side effects include: increase or decrease in appetite, fever, chills, weakness, sinusitis, and ear; nose; and throat infections, skin reactions, muscle or joint pain, allergic reactions, bronchospasm, and behavioral disturbances. Patients with respiratory diseases may experience breathing problems when treated with zanamivir due to irritation of the breathing tubes by the particles from the inhaler. If breathing […]
15November
2019
What is omalizumab, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Omalizumab is an injectable drug that is used for treating asthma. Omalizumab is a protein that resembles one type of human antibody. Antibodies are proteins produced by the body that recognize foreign substances such as bacteria (that cause infection) and pollens (that cause allergies). Once they recognize a foreign substance, the antibodies attach to receptors on two types of cells in tissues and blood, mast cells and basophils. These cells then release chemicals that cause an allergic reaction that leads to inflammation. Omalizumab blocks the receptors on the surfaces of the mast cells and basophils to which antibodies attach, thereby preventing antibodies from attaching to the cells. As a result, the cells do not release their chemicals, and the allergic reaction and inflammation are prevented. In asthmatic individuals, allergic reactions often cause attacks of asthma. Omalizumab reduces the attacks of asthma by preventing the allergic reactions caused by foreign substances. Omalizumab was approved by the FDA in June 2003. What brand names are available for omalizumab? Xolair Is omalizumab available as a generic drug? GENERIC AVAILABLE: No PREPARATIONS: Sterile powder for Injection: 5 ml vial (150 mg) Do I […]
15November
2019
Chuh, A., et al. “A Position Statement on the Management of Patients With Pityriasis Rosea.” JEADV 2016: 1-12. Drago F, Broccolo F, and Rebora A. “Pityriasis Rosea: An Update With a Critical Appraisal of Its Possible Herpesviral Etiology.” J Am Acad Dermatol 61.2 Aug. 2009: 303-318. Drago F, Broccolo F, et al. “Pregnancy Outcome in Patients With Pityriasis Rosea.” J Am Acad Dermatol 58.5 May 2008: S78-83. Drago F, Ciccarese G, Javor S, and Parodi A. “Vaccine-induced pityriasis rosea and pityriasis rosea-like eruptions: a review of the literature.” J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 30.3 Mar. 2016: 544-545. Drago, F, Ciccarese G, Rebora A, Broccolo F, and Parodi A. “Pityriasis Rosea: A Comprehensive Classification.” Dermatology Apr. 21, 2016: 1-7. Eisman S, and Sinclair R. “Pityriasis Rosea.” BMJ 351 (2015): 1-6. Honi BA, Keeling JH, Lewis CW, Thompson IM. “A pityriasis rosea-like eruption secondary to bacillus Calmette-Guérin therapy for bladder cancer.” Cutis 57.6 June 1996: 447-450. Kempf W, Adams V, Kleinhans M, Burg G, Panizzon RG, Campadelli-Fiume G, et al. “Pityriasis rosea is not associated with human herpesvirus 7.” Arch Dermatol 135 (1999): 1070–1072. Mahajan, Khushbu, et al. “Pityriasis Rosea: An Update of Etiopathogenesis and Management of Difficult Aspects.” Indian J Dermatol […]
15November
2019
What is rosiglitazone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Rosiglitazone is an oral drug that reduces the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood. It is used for treating patients with type 2 diabetes and is in a class of anti-diabetic drugs called thiazolidinediones. The other member of this class is pioglitazone (Actos). Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that is important for controlling the levels of glucose in the blood. Insulin stimulates the cells of the body to remove glucose from the blood and thereby lowers the level of glucose in the blood. Patients with type 2 diabetes cannot make enough insulin or are resistant to the effects of insulin (insulin resistance). As a result, the cells in their bodies do not remove enough glucose from the blood, and the level of glucose rises. Rosiglitazone often is referred to as an “insulin sensitizer” because it attaches to the insulin receptors on cells throughout the body and causes the cells to become more sensitive (more responsive) to insulin and remove more glucose from the blood. At least some insulin must be produced by the pancreas in order for rosiglitazone to work. Rosiglitazone was approved by the […]
15November
2019
Rhabdomyolysis facts Rhabdomyolysis is the rapid destruction of skeletal muscle resulting in leakage into the urine of the muscle protein myoglobin. Rhabdomyolysis has many causes. Medications can cause muscle injury and rhabdomyolysis. Rhabdomyolysis can cause muscle pain and weakness. Blood levels of muscle enzymes, including CPK, SGOT, SGPT, and LDH, as well as blood and urine myoglobin are used to diagnose and monitor rhabdomyolysis. Hospitalization is sometimes required to treat rhabdomyolysis. What is rhabdomyolysis? Rhabdomyolysis (RAB-DOE-MY-O-LIE-SIS) is the rapid destruction of skeletal muscle resulting in leakage into the urine of the muscle protein myoglobin. There are three different types of muscle in the human body; smooth muscle, skeletal muscle, and heart muscle. The skeletal muscle is the muscle of movement of the body (moving the skeleton at the joints). Skeletal muscle is affected by rhabdomyolysis. Myoglobin is a protein component of the muscle cells that is released into the blood when the skeletal muscle is destroyed in rhabdomyolysis. Creatine kinase is an enzyme (a protein that facilitates chemical reactions in the body) also in the muscle cells. The level of each of these proteins can be measured in blood to monitor the degree of muscle injury from rhabdomyolysis. Myoglobin can […]
15November
2019
Latest Cancer News THURSDAY, Nov. 14, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Women with advanced breast cancer might find mindfulness can ease their pain, anxiety and depression, a new study suggests. Mindfulness is the ability to keep your mind focused on the present moment. “Mindfulness helps us relate to our thoughts, emotions and physical symptoms in a different way,” said study author Lauren Zimmaro, a postdoctoral fellow at Fox Chase Cancer Center in Philadelphia. “Not judging or reacting to symptoms may be helpful to the physical body by lowering the fight-or-flight stress response and inducing a relaxation response,” Zimmaro said in a Fox Chase news release. “Over time, people who are more mindful can buffer their stresses, and that may have a more beneficial impact on the body.” This study included 64 women with metastatic breast cancer who completed questionnaires to assess their cancer symptoms and five aspects of mindfulness: observing, describing, acting with awareness, non-judging and nonreactivity. Overall, higher levels of mindfulness were associated with less pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression and sleep disturbance, according to the study published Nov. 8 in the journal Psycho-Oncology. However, certain aspects of mindfulness — nonreactivity, non-judging and describing — were more strongly associated with these […]
What are home remedies for a dislocated shoulder? When a shoulder injury occurs and there is concern about a fracture or dislocation, the patient likely needs to seek medical attention urgently. Initial first aid at the scene may include immobilizing the shoulder, perhaps by placing it into a sling, applying ice packs to the affected area, and not allowing the patient to have anything to eat or drink, in case sedation is required to reduce the shoulder. Vomiting may occur as a side effect of some of the medications used for sedation, and it is best to have an empty stomach to prevent complications. It is also important to make certain that no other injury has occurred. If needed, it may be appropriate to call 911 and activate emergency medical services. Some patients who have had previous shoulder dislocations and have unstable joints may be able to reduce (relocate) their shoulder spontaneously when they feel it pop out of the joint. What is the treatment for a dislocated shoulder? The purpose of the initial treatment of a dislocated shoulder is to reduce the dislocation and return the humeral head to its normal place in the glenoid fossa. There are a […]
What is tocilizumab, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Tocilizumab is an injectable synthetic (man-made) protein that binds to interleukin-6 (IL-6) in the body and blocks the effects of IL-6 in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. Inflammation is the body’s reaction to injury and is a necessary process for the repair of injury. IL-6 is a protein that the body produces when there is inflammation. IL-6 promotes inflammation and the signs of inflammation, which, in the case of arthritis, includes fever as well as pain, tenderness, and swelling of the joints. The unchecked inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis eventually leads to destruction of the joints. Tocilizumab binds to IL-6 in the body and thereby blocks the effects of IL-6. As a result, inflammation and its consequences in the joints are reduced, and the progressive destruction of the joints is slowed or prevented. The FDA approved tocilizumab in January 2010. The brand name for tocilizumab is Actemra. tocilizumab is not available in generic form. You need to obtain a prescription for tocilizumab. What is tocilizumab used for? Tocilizumab is prescribed to treat: Moderately to severe active arthritis in adults. Giant cell arthritis. Polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in patients 2 years of […]
15November
2019
Hallucinations can be a sign of a mental health illness, but they do not always mean a person is unwell. Hallucinations are, in fact, relatively common. One 2015 study from Europe found that 7.3 percent of people reported a life-long experience of hearing voices. A further study from South Africa on hallucinations in the general population put the rate higher at 12.7%. Scientists do not fully understand why some people have hallucinations, and others do not. Neither do they know what triggers hallucinations in people with conditions such as schizophrenia. Share on PinterestHallucinations are not always a sign of a mental health disorder. Hallucinations can happen any time there is a change in brain activity. For example, some people are more vulnerable to hallucinations when they are falling asleep or partially waking. A 2019 study in mice that took a hallucinogenic drug found that the animals had less activity in brain regions that the researchers associated with managing incoming visual information. This observation suggests that a hallucination could be the brain’s way of compensating for a drop in sensory information. There are many different types of hallucinations, including: Auditory hallucinations: These are when someone hears something that is not there, […]
15November
2019
Latest Sleep News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — More Americans are having trouble falling and staying asleep, and smartphones and technology are probably to blame, researchers report. Their analysis of data from nearly 165,000 adults nationwide showed that the number who reported difficulty falling asleep at least once a week was up 1.4% between 2013 and 2017, and those who had trouble staying asleep rose 2.7%. Those percentages may appear small, but it means that as many as 5 million more adults have sleep problems, according to study leader Zlatan Krizan, a professor of psychology at Iowa State University (ISU), in Ames, Iowa. “How long we sleep is important, but how well we sleep and how we feel about our sleep is important in its own right,” Krizan said in a university news release. “Sleep health is a multidimensional phenomenon, so examining all the aspects of sleep is crucial for future research.” The study was published online recently in the journal Sleep Health. Krizan and his team could not say what’s contributing to the increase in sleep problems, but technology is likely a factor, according to lead author Garrett Hisler. He’s a former ISU graduate student who is […]
15November
2019
Female reproductive system definition Picture of Female Infertility The female reproductive system is made up of internal organs and external structures. Its function is to enable reproduction of the species. Sexual maturation is the process that this system undergoes in order to carry out its role in the process of pregnancy and birth. What do the reproductive organs look like (picture)? Picture of the female reproductive system The uterus, or womb, is a hollow organ located centrally in the pelvis. It houses the developing fetus during pregnancy. The lower portion of the uterus is called the cervix and opens into the vagina, or birth canal. An opening in the cervix allows for the passage of sperm into the uterus and the exit of menstrual blood. This same opening dilates during labor to allow passage of the baby through the birth canal. Arising from the upper portion of the uterus on each side are the Fallopian tubes. These are channels that allow eggs from the ovaries to enter the uterus. The process of fertilization of an egg by a sperm cell typically happens in the Fallopian tubes, and the fertilized egg moves into the uterus where it is implanted. Beside the […]
15November
2019
FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Dollar Tree has been sent a warning letter for selling over-the-counter (OTC) drugs made by foreign companies with serious, multiple violations of federal manufacturing laws, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says. Latest Prevention & Wellness News The drugs include Dollar Tree’s Assured Brand OTC drugs and other drug products sold by Dollar Tree Co., which operates stores under the Dollar Tree and Family Dollar names. The contract manufacturers used by Dollar Tree to make the OTC drugs have received warning letters from the FDA for violations such as not testing raw materials or finished drugs for pathogens and quality. In its warning letter to Dollar Tree, the FDA outlines a number of corrective actions the company needs to take, including a system to ensure that they do not import impure drugs. Dollar Tree said that it is cooperating with the FDA and plans to meet with the agency, CNN reported. “We are committed to our customers’ safety and have very robust and rigorous testing programs in place to ensure our third-party manufacturers’ products are safe,” Randy Guiler, vice president of investor relations at Dollar Tree, said in a company statement. “Each of […]
15November
2019
(HealthDay News) — More than three-quarters of Americans say money is a significant cause of stress for them, says the American Psychological Association. Latest Mental Health News To help manage financial stress, the association encourages people to: Remain calm and stay focused. Identify financial stressors and make a plan. Recognize how you currently deal with stress related to money. Turn challenging times into opportunities for growth and change. Ask for professional support from financial planners and psychologists. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. QUESTION Laughter feels good because… See Answer
15November
2019
By Ingrid HeinWebMD Health News Nov. 14, 2019 — Vaginal delivery and breastfeeding lessen the number of new allergy and asthma cases in children up to the age of 18 years, according to new research. Latest Healthy Kids News David Hill, MD, PhD, of the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, and his colleagues compared the records of 158,422 children to see how the method of birth and feeding practice influenced the number of allergic conditions reported by each young person over a period of 18 years. Earlier studies have looked at the effect of breastfeeding or birth method for a single condition, Hill said. He presented results from the study — which looked at eczema, food allergy, allergies, and asthma — at the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology 2019 Annual Scientific Meeting in Houston. After adjusting for race and sex, the team looked at the influence of how the baby was born (vaginal vs. cesarean) and feeding (breastfed, bottle-fed, or a combination of the two). Children delivered vaginally had lower rates of one, two, three, and four allergic conditions. “The benefits of vaginal delivery were quite broad,” Hill said. The protective effect for those who would develop one condition […]
15November
2019
Latest Healthy Kids News FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Bad eating habits begin at a young age in American children, a new study finds. Researchers analyzed data from more than 1,200 babies (aged 6 to 11 months) and toddlers (12 to 23 months) between 2011 and 2016. They found that 61% of babies and 98% of toddlers consumed added sugars in their typical daily diet, mainly in flavored yogurt and fruit drinks. Infants consumed about 1 teaspoon of added sugars daily (about 2% of their daily calorie intake); toddlers consumed about 6 teaspoons (about 8% of their daily calories). The main sources of added sugar for infants were yogurt, snacks and sweet bakery products. For toddlers, the top sources were fruit drinks, sweet baked products and candy. Asian toddlers consumed the fewest added sugars (3.7 teaspoons); blacks, the most (8.2 teaspoons). The study was published online Nov. 14 in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. “This has important public health implications since previous research has shown that eating patterns established early in life shape later eating patterns,” lead investigator Kirsten Herrick said in a journal news release. She’s a researcher with the Division of Health […]
15November
2019
Latest Healthy Kids News THURSDAY, Nov. 14, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Taking that trek through the woods with your child may do more than build strong muscles. New research suggests that time spent in nature is also good for their mental and emotional well-being. “This research shows that children experience profound and diverse benefits through regular contact with nature. Contact with the wild improves children’s well-being, motivation and confidence,” said Nigel Doar, director of strategy at the Wildlife Trusts, the organization in charge of nature reserves in the United Kingdom. “The data also highlights how children’s experiences in and around the natural world led to better relationships with their teachers and classmates,” Doar said in a news release from the trust. The study included more than 450 British elementary schoolchildren, mostly aged 8 and 9, who took part in a series of Wildlife Trusts activities in 12 areas across England over several weeks. The children completed surveys before and after they participated in the outdoor activities, which included learning about nature, its role in people’s lives and the needs of wildlife habitats. The Wildlife Trusts commissioned the study, which was conducted by researchers at the Institute of Education at University […]
15November
2019
FRIDAY, Nov. 15, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Approved use of the prescription-strength fish oil drug Vascepa should be widened to include more patients at risk for heart attack and stroke, a U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory panel recommended Thursday. Latest Heart News Vascepa is currently approved for patients with extremely high levels of triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood associated with heart disease, the Associated Press reported. Drug maker Amarin is seeking FDA approval for the use of Vascepa in patients who have lower blood fat levels but still have a risk of heart problems, despite taking cholesterol-lowering statins. A month’s supply of Vascepa costs roughly $300. The FDA panel unanimously voted Thursday in favor of expanded use of Vascepa. Their decision was based on research showing that the drug can reduce rates of dangerous heart problems in high-risk patients, the AP reported. “There is no doubt this drug could benefit a substantial portion of the U.S. population and meet an unmet need,” said panel member Dr. Jack Yanovski, a hormone specialist at the U.S. National Institutes of Health. But Phillip Posner, the patient representative on the panel, noted that, “”I do not want to see this […]
15November
2019
Latest Heart News THURSDAY, Nov. 14, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Women are at higher risk for stroke and have different stroke symptoms than men. Now, new research suggests another difference: less benefit from a surgery used to treat carotid artery disease, a key risk factor for stroke. The disease, also called carotid stenosis, is marked by fatty deposits, called plaque, that build up inside the neck arteries and increase stroke risk. Surgery to remove the plaque, a procedure called an endarterectomy, is used to reduce this risk. The researchers found that among participants with symptoms from the plaque buildup, endarterectomy was more effective in men, with 11.1% of women having a stroke within five years of the surgery, compared to 8.9% of men. “Men and women are different and sometimes their disease might call for a different treatment approach,” said lead investigator Niveditta Ramkumar, a graduate student at the Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice, in Lebanon, N.H. “Because our study found women are getting more strokes than men, it may mean their treatment, in this case endarterectomy, is not as effective in women as it is in men.” The preliminary study, which used data on […]
15November
2019
Latest Heart News THURSDAY, Nov. 14, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Experiencing a heart attack may be so terrifying that it triggers post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and those who develop PTSD have twice the risk of having a second heart attack. That’s according to new research that suggests this may be because PTSD keeps them from taking their cardiovascular medication. Researchers electronically monitored medication adherence of 400 people who were suspected of having or known to have had an acute coronary syndrome (ACS). ACS is an umbrella medical term in which blood supply to the heart muscle is suddenly blocked and includes a heart attack. About 18.5% of people in the study exhibited symptoms of PTSD. Another 7.8% had symptoms suggesting probable PTSD. The study found people with the most PTSD symptoms had more than twice the odds of not taking their medication compared to those with the fewest symptoms. “Medical professionals get used to seeing people who have had a heart attack,” said study author Dr. Ian Kronish, a general internist at Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York City. “But for patients, this is a sentinel event that can turn their lives upside down. They are […]
15November
2019
By Amy NortonHealthDay Reporter Latest Heart News THURSDAY, Nov. 14, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Fish oil might help people with heart failure avoid repeat trips to the hospital, a new study suggests. The findings come from an analysis of a clinical trial first published last year, where researchers tested the effects of fish oil and vitamin D on people’s risk of heart disease and cancer. That main trial — called the Vitamin D and Omega-3 Trial (VITAL) — had some encouraging results. Healthy older adults given a fish oil supplement were less likely to suffer a heart attack over the next several years, especially if they had never been big fish eaters. The current analysis looked at whether supplements had any effect on participants’ risk of being hospitalized for heart failure. Heart failure is a chronic condition in which the heart gradually loses its ability to efficiently pump blood to the body. Often, it stems from heart-muscle damage caused by a heart attack — which raised the question of whether the benefits seen in the trial might extend to heart failure, explained Dr. Luc Djousse. Djousse, of Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School in Boston, led the current […]
15November
2019
What is olsalazine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Olsalazine is an oral medication that works as an anti-inflammatory drug for treating inflammatory diseases of the colon. It is a derivative of salicylic acid. Inactive itself, it is converted by the bacteria in the colon to its active form, mesalamine. Following oral administration very little of the olsalazine (less than 10%) is absorbed from the intestine into the body. The benefit of mesalamine is believed to be due to a local effect from within the colon. Mesalamine also is thought to be the active component of another drug used for treating inflammatory diseases of the intestines, sulfasalazine (Azulfidine). Olsalazine was approved by the FDA in July 1990. The brand names for olsalazine are is Dipentum. Olsalazine is not available in generic form. You need a prescription to obtain this drug. What is olsalazine used for? Olsalazine is used to treat a digestive condition called ulcerative colitis or UC. What is the dosage for olsalazine? Olsalazine usually is administered at a dose of 500 mg (two capsules) twice daily. It should be taken with meals. Is olsalazine safe to take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding? Mesalamine, which is […]
15November
2019
Lymphoma is a type of cancer that starts in immune cells called lymphocytes. When lymphoma affects the skin, it may cause a rash that appears as one or more scaly, reddish-to-purple patches, plaques, or nodules. A lymphoma rash, such as mycosis fungoides (MF), can be easy to confuse with other skin conditions, such as psoriasis or eczema, which can cause similar symptoms. A person may also experience other symptoms, and these can help doctors make the correct diagnosis. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital, and the combination of approaches will depend on the type of lymphoma a person has. In this article, learn more about lymphoma rashes. Share on PinterestIt is easy to confuse a lymphoma rash with rashes of other conditions. A lymphoma rash is not a term that doctors usually use, but some people use the term to describe skin-related symptoms of lymphoma. Skin rashes are uncommon symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma, but they may result more often from other types of lymphoma that start in T or B cells. The American Cancer Society note that nearly half of all skin lymphomas are MF. The most common type of cutaneous T cell lymphoma, MF occurs when cancerous T cells […]
14November
2019
Possible causes of hair loss include: 1. Androgenetic alopecia Share on PinterestPossible causes of hair loss include androgenetic alopecia, pregnancy, and telogen effluvium. Androgenetic alopecia is another term for male or female pattern baldness. It is a very common cause of hair loss. Both male and female pattern baldness is genetic. Males tend to lose hair from the temples and crown of the head. In females, hair usually becomes thinner all over the head. Androgenetic alopecia is more likely to happen as a person ages but can start at any point after puberty. Many females who experience androgenetic alopecia develop it after going through the menopause. This means that hormones may have something to do with it. It is possible to treat this condition with minoxidil, a medication for hair growth. 2. Pregnancy Some women may experience excessive hair loss shortly after giving birth. This is due to a decrease in estrogen levels. This type of hair loss is a temporary condition and usually resolves within a year or sooner. To help hair return to its normal condition, try: using a volumizing shampoo and conditioner using products designed for fine hair avoiding intensive conditioners or conditioning shampoos as these can […]
14November
2019
Bone marrow is soft, spongy tissue within some bones, including those in the hips and thighs. People with certain blood-related conditions benefit from a transplant that replaces damaged cells with healthy cells, possibly from a donor. Bone marrow transplants can be lifesaving for people with conditions such as lymphoma or leukemia, or when intensive cancer treatment has damaged blood cells. This type of transplant can be an intensive procedure, and recovery can take a long time. Here, we provide an overview of bone marrow transplants, including their uses, risks, and recovery. Share on PinterestA close family member is, in many cases, the donor. Bone marrow contains stem cells. In healthy people, stem cells in bone marrow help create: red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body white blood cells, which help fight off infection platelets, which create clots to prevent excessive bleeding If a medical condition — such as one that damages the blood or immune system — prevents the body from creating healthy blood cells, a person may need a bone marrow transplant. A person with any of the following conditions may be a candidate for a bone marrow transplant: Types There are three types of bone marrow […]
14November
2019
People with paranoid personality disorder have a deep and unwarranted mistrust of others, which tends to have a significant effect on their relationships with family, friends, and co-workers. Paranoid personality disorder (PPD)is among the most common personality disorders. Experts believe that this disorder may affect up to 4.41% of the population. People with PPD feel threatened by others, so they are usually reluctant to seek medical attention. As a result, many clinicians have little experience in diagnosing and treating the disorder. There are also no clinical studies or treatment guidelines available. In this article, we outline the current understanding of PPD. We explore the causes and symptoms of the disorder, as well as the treatment options available. Share on PinterestA person with PPD may experience sensitivity to criticism, emotional rigidity, and increased alertness. In 1980, the American Psychiatric Association published the definition of PPD in the third Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-III). People with PPD have suspicious, unforgiving, and jealous personality traits. Some doctors also believe that people with PPD have traits of excessive self-importance and hostility. PPD can occur as a standalone disorder. However, people with the following conditions may also show symptoms of PPD: Experts […]
14November
2019
Yerba maté is a caffeinated tea made from the leaves of Ilex paraguariensis, a type of holly found in the South American rainforest. In addition to its distinct flavor, yerba maté is rich in vitamins, amino acids, and polyphenols, which are plant compounds that may improve health. The research on yerba maté tea’s health benefits is still emerging, but some studies suggest that yerba maté may improve cardiovascular health, counteract the health effects of obesity, and more. Keep reading to learn about five of the health benefits of yerba maté, some possible risks and side effects, and how to consume and prepare it. According to a 2011 analysis, foods such as ginseng, yerba maté, and soybeans contain an actinobacterium, a type of bacteria that may change the way the body digests fat. This may help a person gain less weight or even lose weight. Research on animals supports the role of yerba maté in fighting obesity and counteracting its effects. A 2012 study on rats who ate a high-fat diet found that yerba maté changed lipid metabolism. It also lowered some common side effects of obesity, including serum triglycerides and blood glucose. A 2013 study found that yerba maté could […]
14November
2019
Allergies can cause vertigo, but this is rare. In this article, we look at how dizziness, vertigo, and allergies are linked, and whether or not treating allergy symptoms can help resolve vertigo.
14November
2019
The Norwood scale helps classify the stages of male pattern baldness on a scale of 1 to 7. People experiencing male pattern baldness tend to lose hair in one of a few specific ways, and the Norwood scale also helps identify the progression of these patterns of hair loss. Knowing this can help doctors make an accurate diagnosis and identify the best treatment options for each individual. Some doctors may use their own scales, though they tend to be similar to the Norwood scale. Keep reading to learn more about the stages of the Norwood scale, some treatments for male pattern baldness, and tips on hair health and how to cope with hair loss. James Hamilton introduced a scale to measure the stages of male pattern baldness in the 1950s. Dr. O’Tar Norwood then significantly improved this scale in the 1970s. The Norwood scale defines seven stages of baldness, with specific models for each type of baldness. Each stage has a normal pattern and a class A pattern. The normal pattern tends to start with a bald spot on the top of the head. Class A balding has a different progression, wherein the hairline recedes from the front to the […]
14November
2019
A new blood test could save lives in the treatment of sepsis. It assesses five markers in the blood to predict who is at low, medium, and high risk of death. With this knowledge, doctors could start treating the serious condition much earlier and with more precision. Share on PinterestNew research details how a blood test could help predict and prevent sepsis. Researchers from several children’s hospitals in the United States have been developing the test – which they call PERSEVERE – for more than 10 years. They recently evaluated it in two ways. First, they used the test to predict the risk of death in more than 400 children severely ill with sepsis. They then used it on mice with experimental sepsis to compare treatment decisions. A recent paper in Science Translational Medicine gives a full account of the study and its findings. Dr. Hector Wong, a director of Critical Care Medicine at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center in Ohio, is the study’s senior investigator and first author. He says that PERSEVERE not only puts patients into groups according to the deadliness of the sepsis but that it also enables doctors to decide which treatments to give to specific […]
14November
2019
According to new research, keeping a healthy weight and quitting smoking before the age of 40 may substantially relieve the hot flashes and night sweats that often characterize menopause. Share on PinterestResearch suggests that making a few lifestyle changes could alleviate some of the discomforts of menopause. According to some estimates, as many as 1.5 million females experience menopause each year. Although menopause is a normal, healthy part of life, physiological changes that can bring discomfort sometimes mark the transition. According to the North American Menopause Society, hot flashes are “the most common menopause-related discomfort.” Scientists think that hot flashes are the result of changes in the brain’s hypothalamus — the area that helps control the body’s temperature. When the hypothalamus “misfires,” it sends signals to the blood vessels on the surface of the skin to dilate and disperse body heat because it mistakenly “thinks” the body is too warm. Because of this effect on blood vessels, medical professionals often refer to hot flashes and night sweats as “vasomotor symptoms.” About 85% of menopausal females report experiencing hot flashes. What is more, approximately 55% of these individuals begin to experience hot flashes even before any other signs of menopause or […]
14November
2019
Driving can be very stressful, particularly if you are stuck in heavy traffic or are an inexperienced driver, and this stress will eventually take its toll on the heart. However, researchers now confirm that there is a simple fix for this problem: listening to the right music while driving. Share on PinterestIf we listen to relaxing music while driving, this may help relieve stress and protect the heart, a new study suggests. Past research has shown that experiencing frequent psychological stress can be a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, a condition that affects almost half of those aged 20 years and older in the United States. One source of frequent stress is driving, either due to the stressors associated with heavy traffic or the anxiety that often accompanies inexperienced drivers. Does this mean, though, that people who drive on a daily basis are set to develop heart problems, or is there a simple way of easing the stress of driving? According to a new study by researchers from São Paulo State University in Marília, Brazil, Oxford Brookes University in the United Kingdom, and the University of Parma in Italy, there is. In a study paper that features in the […]
14November
2019
New research suggests that not being able to read or write can raise the chances of developing dementia by two or three times. Share on PinterestNot being able to read or write may dramatically increase the risk of dementia, according to a new study. According to the United States Department of Education, 1 in 5 adults in the country do not have the literacy skills required for “comparing and contrasting information, paraphrasing, or making low-level inferences.” Overall, 43 million U.S. adults have low literacy abilities. Results of a survey that the department conducted between 2011 and 2014 indicate that 26.5 million people in the country do not have the literacy skills mentioned above, 8.4 million have even fewer literacy skills, and 8.2 million could not take part because of a linguistic or cognitive barrier. Now, new research suggests that people who cannot read or write may have a higher risk of dementia. Jennifer J. Manly, Ph.D., of Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, in New York, is the senior author of the paper, which appears in the journal Neurology. Manly explains the link between literacy and brain health, saying, “Being able to read and write allows people to […]
14November
2019
An enema is an injection of liquid containing various substances into the rectum. The goal is to loosen stuck stool and encourage a bowel movement. A doctor may recommend an enema to treat constipation when first-line treatments have not worked. Homemade and commercial enemas can cause adverse effects. Most doctors recommend using laxatives and dietary changes before suggesting that the person try an enema. A homemade enema may be safe if a person uses an appropriate mixture and sterile equipment. However, most of the medical community does not recommend using homemade enemas. Before a person attempts to use one, they should consult a doctor about safe methods and alternatives. Keep reading for more information about the safety and risks of homemade enemas. Share on PinterestAlthough the medical community recognizes the benefits of enemas, it is best to consult a doctor before using a homemade one. An enema is a liquid solution that a person injects into the rectum using either tubing or a syringe. The contents of homemade and premixed commercial enema solutions can vary. A homemade enema may contain ingredients such as salt, soap, or coffee. Commercial kits can contain a variety of ingredients, as advertised on labeling. The […]
14November
2019
After uncovering a key mechanism that could explain how e-cigarettes harm the lungs, brain, and cardiovascular system, a team of researchers now calls for much stricter regulation of these electronic devices. Share on PinterestMore researchers are pressing for even tighter regulation of e-cigarettes, citing dangers to health. Electronic cigarettes — e-cigarettes, for short — were developed as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes, in an effort to help wean smokers off their harmful habit. However, evidence has increasingly come to light that the liquid that goes into an e-cigarette and the materials of the devices themselves contain dangerous levels of toxic substances that can harm health. Moreover, researchers have found that e-cigarettes can provide a gateway to smoking and other addictive behaviors among teenagers, who may see these devices as a social trend. And recently, various media outlets have reported several cases of adolescents being hospitalized with severe health problems from e-cigarette use. The most recent report involves a 17-year-old who experienced such serious lung damage from e-cigarette use that he needed a double lung transplant. “According to the [United States] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 3.6 million children in the U.S. use e-cigarettes, with a jump of […]
14November
2019
Latest Heart News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Regular exercise lowers older adults’ risk of heart disease and stroke, even if they have health problems such as high blood pressure or diabetes, researchers say. For the new study, researchers analyzed data from more than 1 million people aged 60 and older in South Korea. The study participants’ health was checked in 2009 to 2010, again in 2011 to 2012, and they were followed until the end of 2016. People who were inactive at the start and then became moderately to vigorously active three to four times a week by the 2011-2012 health check had an 11% reduced risk of heart disease, the findings showed. Those who were moderately or vigorously active once or twice a week at the start lowered their risk 10% if they increased their physical activity to five or more times a week. But those who became less active saw their risk rise. Participants who were moderately or vigorously active more than five times a week initially but had become inactive at the second check had a 27% higher risk of heart disease, the study found. Even those with disabilities and chronic conditions lowered their […]
14November
2019
By E.J. MundellHealthDay Reporter Latest Heart News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — A rigorous, new international study finds that, despite doctors’ best efforts, many heart patients given standard drugs aren’t meeting goals to lower their cholesterol and blood pressure levels. The study involved nearly 4,000 patients, averaging 64 years of age, treated at centers around the world. The researchers found that, one year into treatment, nearly half (48%) of patients had failed to wrestle their blood levels of LDL “bad” cholesterol down to the target set by doctors. And one-quarter of the patients failed to get their systolic blood pressure (the top number in a reading) down to the target level of below 140 mmHg, according to a team led by Dr. Jonathan Newman, of the New York University School of Medicine, in New York City. A big gender divide emerged, too: Female patients were one-third less likely to achieve those one-year treatment goals than their male peers, the findings showed. The study was funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health and published online Nov. 13 in Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes. One heart specialist called the long-awaited findings a wake-up call for physicians. “This is an […]
14November
2019
Latest Heart News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — It seems like a no brainer: The flu shot protects heart patients from illness and death, so getting one should be the first thing they do every year before the season starts. But new research shows that a third of these vulnerable patients don’t get vaccinated. “Patients need to be educated about the benefits of the flu vaccination,” said study lead author Dr. Gowtham Grandhi, an internal medicine resident physician at MedStar Health in Baltimore. “People with heart disease are at higher risk of medical complications or death from the flu.” In the study, Grandhi and his colleagues examined data collected between 2008 and 2015 on flu shot rates among more than 15,000 people, aged 40 and older, in the United States who’d had a heart attack, stroke or had other conditions associated with clogged arteries. Nearly 1 in 3 didn’t get a flu shot in the past year, including almost 30% of those who had health insurance or a regular source of medical care. Even so, uninsured and low-income people were most likely to go without a flu shot (65%), according to the study to be presented at the […]
14November
2019
Latest Heart News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Infants are more likely to be born with serious heart defects if their homes are in neighborhoods that are polluted or economically deprived, a new study finds. Congenital heart defects – abnormalities in the heart or nearby blood vessels that arise before birth – affect an estimated 1.3 million Americans. At least 8 in every 1,000 babies have some form of congenital heart problem, most of which are mild. In the study, infants from neighborhoods classified as both the most socially and economically deprived and most polluted were 48% more likely than babies from the least deprived, least polluted areas to have a congenital heart defect. The findings took into account the potential influence of the age, race and ethnicity of the infants’ mothers. The study shows how social disadvantage and pollution are intertwined and how difficult it is to disentangle their effects on health, said lead researcher Dr. Shabnam Peyvandi, associate professor of pediatrics, epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of California, San Francisco. “Though each factor likely plays a role in the development of congenital heart disease, the combined effect is likely much stronger.” The preliminary […]
14November
2019
By Serena GordonHealthDay Reporter Latest Diabetes News THURSDAY, Nov. 14, 2019 (HealthDay News) — While the high price of insulin has gotten a lot of attention lately, it’s not the only cost issue facing people with diabetes. New technologies designed to improve blood sugar management often cost too much for people to afford. Maya Headley, 36, has had type 1 diabetes for 30 years. The New York City resident had been using an insulin pump to deliver the repeated daily insulin doses she needs to stay alive for more than 20 years. About six years ago, she just couldn’t afford to pay for the pump supplies anymore. “I was paying $300 a month for insurance and my deductible was $1,500. I had to pay 20% of the cost of my diabetes supplies after I paid the deductible, so that was another couple of hundred dollars a month,” she said. Headley added that what made affording diabetes supplies even more difficult was the uncertainty about the cost. “Insurance companies tell you they cover these devices, but not how much it will be. Until you get the bill, you don’t know. It’s hard to budget when you have no idea what your […]
14November
2019
What is Savella (milnacipran)? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Milnacipran is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used for treating pain associated with fibromyalgia. It is similar to duloxetine (Cymbalta), venlafaxine (Effexor), and desvenlafaxine (Pristiq). Milnacipran affects neurotransmitters, the chemicals that nerves within the brain make and release in order to communicate with one another. Neurotransmitters either travel across the space between nerves, attach to receptors on the surface of nearby nerves or they attach to receptors on the surface of the nerves that produced them. The neurotransmitters may be taken up by the nerve and released again (a process referred to as re-uptake). Serotonin and norepinephrine are two neurotransmitters released by nerves in the brain. Milnacipran prevents the reuptake of serotonin and epinephrine by nerves after they have been released. Since uptake is an important mechanism for removing released neurotransmitters and terminating their actions on adjacent nerves, the reduced uptake caused by milnacipran increases the effect of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. The mechanism responsible for its effectiveness for treating fibromyalgia is not known but milnacipran action is thought to involve its effects on serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. Milnacipran was approved by […]
What is penicillamine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Penicillamine is classified as a metal binding (chelating) agent. Penicillamine is a genetic disease that causes excessive copper to accumulate in the body. The mechanism of action of penicillamine in rheumatoid arthritis is unknown but it may be related to reduction of collagen formation. (Collagen is a type of tissue compound that forms as part of scar tissue that result from inflammation.) Penicillamine also may result in suppression of the immune system. In patients with rheumatoid arthritis, penicillamine appears to slow the progression of the disease (specifically deformities of the joints) and improve function. For this reason it is considered a disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD). Penicillamine binds copper, iron, mercury, lead, and cystine which then are excreted in the urine, and this mechanism is important in treating several non-rheumatic diseases including Wilson’s disease. The FDA approved penicillamine in December 1970. Brand names for penicillamine are Cuprimine and Depen. Penicillamine is not available in the US. You need a prescription to obtain penicillamine. What is penicillamine used for? Penicillamine is used for treating Wilson’s disease. What are the side effects and warnings of penicillamine? Common reactions to penicillamine include: […]
14November
2019
Genital herpes in women definition and facts Illustration of the herpes virus. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease or sexually transmitted infection (STD or STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Herpes simplex virus causes genital herpes by entering the skin or mucous membranes through microscopic breaks in the skin and mucous membranes. There are 2 types of HSV: Herpes simplex virus-1, that typically causes cold sores, and Herpes simplex virus-2, that typically causes genital herpes. Either herpes simplex virus type can cause sores on the genital areas. Genital herpes is transmitted by any type of sexual contact with the genital area. With the initial (first episode) genital herpes infection, some individuals may develop symptoms that seem flu-like and include When symptoms and signs do appear, they may include painful blisters and/or ulcers in the genital area, itching, and burning or tingling sensations in the skin. Genital herpes symptoms come and go over the person’s lifetime due to reactivations of the virus. Diagnosis is usually done by recognizing the skin changes in the genital area but viral cultures, genetic amplification of herpes simplex virus genome material, and other tests may be done. There is no cure for genital herpes, but […]
14November
2019
What are the signs and symptoms of syphilis? Syphilis infection, when untreated, progresses through different clinical stages with characteristic signs and symptoms. After the first infection, symptoms typically develop at around 21 days after the infection, but they may appear anywhere from 10 to 90 days following infection. Primary syphilis The first, or primary, stage of syphilis is characterized by the formation of a painless ulcer known as a chancre. This sore develops at the site of infection and is usually solitary. A chancre is usually firm and round in shape. Sometimes, multiple chancres may be present. The chancre contains the infectious bacteria and while the sore is present, the condition is highly contagious. Any contact with the chancre can spread the infection. If the chancre is located in the mouth, for example, even kissing can spread the disease. The chancre lasts for about 3 to 6 weeks and typically then goes away on its own. The use of condoms may also not prevent spread of the illness if the chancre is located on an area of the body not covered by the condom. Secondary syphilis If primary syphilis is left untreated, secondary syphilis may develop. This stage of the […]
14November
2019
(HealthDay News) — Some 240 million calls are made to 911 in the United States each year, says the National Emergency Number Association. Latest Prevention & Wellness News If you or a loved one needs law enforcement, firefighters or emergency medical help, call that number right away. NENA shares these do’s and don’ts for calling 911: Do call for true emergencies. If you are unsure if it’s an emergency, still call. Do your best to stay calm and answer all questions. Do know the location of the emergency. Do post your home address number clearly. Do not just hang up the phone if you call 911 by accident. Do not prank call 911. In most states, this is illegal. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. QUESTION Emotional trauma is best described as a psychological response to a deeply distressing or life-threatening experience. See Answer
14November
2019
Latest Pregnancy News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Kidney damage among U.S. women hospitalized during pregnancy is on the rise, and those women are more likely to die while in the hospital, a new study finds. Kidney injury during pregnancy increases the likelihood of complications and death in mothers and their babies. For the new study, researchers analyzed data on more than 42 million hospitalizations during pregnancy that occurred in the United States from 2006 to 2015. Overall, the rate of hospitalizations for acute kidney injury was 0.08%. But the rate rose from 0.04% in 2006 to 0.12% in 2015, the researchers found. Older women were more likely than younger ones to develop acute kidney injury, and the rate was higher among black women than white women. Those with diabetes were at increased risk, with rates rising from 0.36% in 2006 to 1.10% in 2015, the findings showed. In addition, acute kidney injury rates were higher in the South and Midwest than in the Northeast, and in urban teaching hospitals than in urban non-teaching hospitals or rural hospitals. Women with pregnancy-related acute kidney injury were much more likely to die while hospitalized than others — 3.98% versus 0.01%, […]
14November
2019
What is zonisamide-oral, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Scientists do not known how exactly zonisamide works in the body. Zonisamide is presumed to work on the sodium and calcium channels in the brain cells where it controls electric-currents that are responsible for seizure activity. The FDA approved zonisamide in March 2000. The brand name for zonisamide is Zonergran. Zonisamide is available in generic form. You need a prescription to obtain zonisamide. What is zonisamide-oral used for? Zonisamide (Zonergan) is an anti-seizure medication. Zonisamide is primarily used to treat partial-seizures. What is the dosage for zonisamide-oral? The recommended starting dose of zonisamide is 100 mg/day. Doses may be increased 100 mg/day every 2 weeks. The usual dosage varies from 100 to 600 mg/day, administered in 1 to 2 divided doses. Safe and effective use of zonisamide is not established for children under the age of 16. Which drugs or supplements interact with zonisamide-oral? Zonisamide increases the risk of lactic acid build up when combined with metformin (Glucophage). If you experience sudden weakness, heavy breathing, and increased drowsiness, contact your healthcare professional immediately. Orlistat (Xenical) should be used with caution with zonisamide because it lowers the beneficial effects of zonisamide […]
14November
2019
What is Xanax? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Alprazolam (Xanax XR, Niravam), is an anti-anxiety medication in the benzodiazepine drug family, the same family that includes diazepam (Valium), clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), flurazepam (Dalmane), and others. Alprazolam and other benzodiazepines act by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter (a chemical that nerve cells use to communicate with each other) that inhibits activity in the brain. It is believed that excessive activity in the brain may cause anxiety or other psychiatric disorders. The FDA approved alprazolam in October 1981. What are the side effects of Xanax? The most common side effects of Xanax taken at lower doses are: Other side effects include: Latest Mental Health News Daily Health News Trending on MedicineNet What are the withdrawal symptoms of Xanax? Withdrawal Addiction is more likely to occur at high doses given over prolonged periods. Abrupt discontinuation of alprazolam after prolonged use can lead to symptoms of withdrawal such as: Seizures can occur in more severe cases of withdrawal. Consequently, patients on alprazolam for extended periods of time should slowly taper the medication under a doctor’s supervision rather than abruptly stopping the medication. […]
14November
2019
Latest Mental Health News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — States that legalized recreational marijuana have seen an increase in problematic pot use among teens and adults aged 26 and older, a new study finds. The researchers compared marijuana use in Colorado, Washington, Alaska and Oregon — the first four states to legalize recreational marijuana — before and after legalization. The investigators also compared trends in those states with states that did not legalize recreational marijuana. “There are, indeed, important social benefits that legalizing marijuana can provide, particularly around issues of equity in criminal justice,” said lead author Magdalena Cerda. She’s director of the Center for Opioid Epidemiology and Policy at NYU Langone Health, in New York City. However, “our findings suggest that as more states move toward legalizing marijuana for recreational use, we also need to think about investing in substance use prevention and treatment to prevent unintended harms — particularly among adolescents,” Cerda added in an NYU news release. The study authors examined marijuana use and frequent use (more than 20 days) in the past month, and problematic marijuana use (also called “cannabis use disorder”) over the past year. Signs of problematic use include increased tolerance, repeated […]
14November
2019
What is medical marijuana or medical cannabis? Medical marijuana is the medical use of the Cannabis sativa or Cannabis indica plant to relieve symptoms of, or treat diseases and conditions. The Cannabis plant was used medically for centuries around the world until the early 1900s. Medical marijuana facts can be difficult to find because strong opinions exist, both pros and cons. Medical uses and emerging research on off-label uses are summarized in this article. What are THC and CBD? THC or tetrahydrocannabinolis the psychoactive compound in marijuana. It is responsible for the “high” people feel. There are two man-made drugs called dronabinol (Marinol) and nabilone (Cesamet) that are synthetic forms of THC. They are FDA-approved to prevent nausea and vomiting in people receiving chemotherapy. CBD or cannabidiol is another compound in marijuana that is not psychoactive. CBD is thought to be responsible for the majority of the medical benefits. Epidiolex is a CBD oil extract that is undergoing clinical trials for epilepsy. THC:CBD: Nabiximols (Sativex) is a specific plant extract with an equal ratio of THC:CBD. It is approved as a drug in the UK and elsewhere in Europe for the treatment of multiple sclerosis, spasticity, neuropathic pain, overactive bladder […]
14November
2019
What is sodium polystyrene sulfonate-powder? How does it work (mechanism of action)? Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is a cation-exchange resin taken orally that is used to reduce high levels of potassium in the blood (hyperkalemia). Sodium polystyrene sulfonate removes potassium by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestine. The majority of this cation exchange seems to take place in the large intestine where potassium ions are excreted in greater amounts. In-vitro studies have shown that each gram of resin removes roughly 3 mEq of potassium. However, actual removal of potassium in patients is closer to 1 mEq per gram of medication. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate starts working over a period of several hours and therefore should not be used to treat life-threatening episodes of acute hyperkalemia. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate was initially approved by the US FDA in 1958. Brand names for sodium polystyrene sulfonate-powder are Kalexate, Kayexalate, Kionex, and SP. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate-powder is avaiabe in generic form. You need a prescription to obtain this drug. What are the side effects of sodium polystyrene sulfonate-powder? The most common side effects associated with sodium polystyrene sulfonate treatment are gastrointestinal (affecting the stomach and intestines). Other side effects include: Large oral doses […]
14November
2019
Latest Healthy Kids News THURSDAY, Nov. 14, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Children will face more food shortages and infections if climate change continues unchecked, researchers from the World Health Organization and 34 other institutions warn. Climate change is already harming children’s health. And they’re at risk for lifelong health threats unless the world meets Paris Agreement targets to limit warming to well below 2 degrees Celsius, the scientists reported in the Nov. 14 issue of The Lancet. “This year, the accelerating impacts of climate change have become clearer than ever,” said Hugh Montgomery, co-chair of The Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change. “The highest recorded temperatures in Western Europe and wildfires in Siberia, Queensland and California triggered asthma, respiratory infections and heat stroke. Sea levels are now rising at an ever-concerning rate. Our children recognize this climate emergency and demand action to protect them. We must listen, and respond,” Montgomery said in a journal news release. Montgomery is director of University College London’s Institute for Human Health and Performance, in the United Kingdom. The health impact of climate change needs to be at the top of the agenda at the UN Climate Conference (COP25) next month in Madrid, the […]
14November
2019
WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Hiccups appear to help babies regulate their breathing, researchers say. Latest Healthy Kids News Their study of 13 newborns found that hiccupping triggered brain activity that might help infants “learn how to monitor the breathing muscles,” eventually resulting in the ability to control breathing voluntarily, study senior author Lorenzo Fabrizi, University College London, U.K., said in a statement, CNN reported. “When we are born, the circuits which process body sensations are not fully developed, so the establishment of such networks is a crucial developmental milestone for newborns,” he explained. The researchers noted that hiccuping is common among fetuses and newborns, and begins as early as nine weeks into pregnancy, CNN reported. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. SLIDESHOW Healthy Eating for Kids – Recipes and Meal Ideas See Slideshow
14November
2019
Is MRSA Contagious? MRSA is very contagious under certain circumstances (when skin alterations or damage are present); spread occurs through person-to-person contact with a skin infection or even indirect contact, such as contact with a MRSA-infected person’s clothing or towels or even from benches in gyms. All MRSA needs to establish itself is a small break in the skin or mucosa. This is important because no breaks means no infection; for example, MRSA skin-infected or MRSA-colonized pregnant females seldom infect their fetus or infants. However, many activities such as kissing, saliva exchange, and sexual contact, although somewhat less likely to transfer MRSA to another, can cause infection if the skin or mucosa is damaged. Learn about the incubation period for a MRSA infection » Source: CDC – James Gathany What is methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)? Staphylococcus aureus (SA) is a common skin bacterium. It is sometimes called staph, and it most often causes skin and soft tissue infections. Although S. aureus has been causing staph infections as long as humans have existed, MRSA has only been around since 1961. Methicillin was one of the first antibiotics used to treat S. aureus and other infections. S. aureus developed a gene mutation […]
14November
2019
THURSDAY, Nov. 14, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The world’s first Ebola vaccine has been approved by the European Commission, and it was quickly pre-qualified by the World Health Organization. Latest Infectious Disease News The Ervebo vaccine is made by Merck and is being used in a “compassionate use” capacity in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, site of the second-largest, second-deadliest Ebola outbreak on record, ABC News reported. The WHO’s pre-qualification of the vaccine means that it meets the agency’s quality, safety and efficacy standards. The vaccine’s approval is “a historic step,” according to WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, ABC News reported. “Five years ago, we had no vaccine and no therapeutics for Ebola,” he said in a statement. “With a pre-qualified vaccine and experimental therapeutics, Ebola is now preventable and treatable.” Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. QUESTION Bowel regularity means a bowel movement every day. See Answer
14November
2019
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Infectious Disease News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — The U.S. response to the threat of antibiotic-resistant germs has shown some progress, but these potentially deadly bugs still show no signs of stopping, a new government report warns. Prevention efforts have reduced deaths from antibiotic-resistant bugs by 18% overall and by nearly 30% in hospitals, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed Nov. 13 in an update of its Antibiotic Resistance Threats in the United States report. “This data is exciting because it shows that we are not powerless against antibiotic resistance,” said Dr. Hilary Babcock, president of the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America. Hospital epidemiologists, infection prevention specialists, researchers and pharmacists “are running critically important infection prevention and antibiotic stewardship programs that save lives and help protect patients, making hospitals safer for everyone,” Babcock said. But antibiotic-resistant bacteria and fungi still cause more than 2.8 million infections and 35,000 deaths in the United States each year, the CDC report found. That means someone in the United States gets an antibiotic-resistant infection every 11 seconds, on average, and every 15 minutes someone dies, according to the CDC. The CDC highlighted the […]
14November
2019
Latest Heart News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Jon Dorenbos was swimming with sharks in Bora Bora when he realized he kept losing his breath. During his 14-year NFL career, he’d never experienced anything like this. “It felt like I would drown,” Jon said. A month later, in August 2017, Jon was traded from the Philadelphia Eagles to the New Orleans Saints. During a physical required to seal the deal, the physician heard a slight heart murmur. A follow-up electrocardiogram revealed multiple serious heart problems. “He told me that I was never going to play football again,” Jon said, “and that I would be in open-heart surgery within the next 48 hours.” Jon was 36 and a two-time Pro Bowler as a deep snapper. He was a favorite among Eagles fans, in part for having played in a club-record 162 consecutive games. The trip to Bora Bora was his honeymoon with wife Annalise. Now, the life he’d built was in jeopardy. He remained calm, turning his focus to finding the best surgeon. The name that kept coming up was Dr. Joseph Bavaria, a cardiovascular surgeon and director of the Thoracic Aortic Surgery Program at the Hospital […]
14November
2019
(HealthDay News) — Measuring weight is key to calculating your body mass index (BMI), says the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Latest Diet & Weight Management News To measure weight accurately at home, the CDC recommends: Use a digital scale. Avoid scales that are spring-loaded. Place the scale on a firm floor, rather than on carpet. Remove shoes and heavy clothing. Stand with both feet in the center of the scale. Record the weight to the nearest decimal fraction. Copyright © 2019 HealthDay. All rights reserved. QUESTION What is weight loss surgery? See Answer
14November
2019
By Dennis ThompsonHealthDay Reporter Latest Diet & Weight Management News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Americans are more motivated to lose weight than ever before, with increasing numbers eating less, exercising, drinking water and trying out new diets. And it’s all for naught. Folks are heavier than ever despite all this effort, reports a new study. The proportion of people who’ve tried to lose weight during the previous year increased to 42% in 2015-2016, up from 34% in 1999-2000, according to federal survey data. At the same time, body mass index (BMI) and weight for the average American also increased: Average BMI went up to 29.4 in 2015-2016, just under the obesity level at 30. In 1999-2000, average BMI was 28. People tipped the scales at an average 184 pounds in 2015-2016, compared to 176 pounds in 1999-2000, according to the survey of about 48,000 adults. Ages ranged from 40 to 64. “Where weight-loss efforts are increasing, we can expect a decreasing trend of obesity, but it is not decreasing,” said senior researcher Dr. Lu Qi, director of the Tulane University Obesity Research Center in New Orleans. Why is this happening? It might be that people are trying […]
14November
2019
How Is Research Helping Spinal Cord Injury Patients? Can an injured spinal cord be rebuilt? This is the question that drives basic research in the field of spinal cord injury. As investigators try to understand the underlying biological mechanisms that either inhibit or promote new growth in the spinal cord, they are making surprising discoveries, not just about how neurons and their axons grow in the CNS, but also about why they fail to regenerate after injury in the adult CNS. Understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in both the working and the damaged spinal cord could point the way to therapies that might prevent secondary damage, encourage axons to grow past injured areas, and reconnect vital neural circuits within the spinal cord and CNS. There has been successful research in a number of fields that may someday help people with spinal cord injuries. Genetic studies have revealed a number of molecules that encourage axon growth in the developing CNS but prevent it in the adult. Research into embryonic and adult stem cell biology has furthered knowledge about how cells communicate with each other. Basic research has helped describe the mechanisms involved in the mysterious process of apoptosis, in […]
Knee Bursitis Treatment Cortisone Injections Cortisone injections can be used to treat the inflammation of small areas of the body (local injections), or they can be used to treat inflammation that is widespread throughout the body (systemic injections). Examples of conditions for which local cortisone injections are used include inflammation of a bursa (bursitis of the hip, knee, elbow, or shoulder), a tendon (tendinitis such as tennis elbow), and a joint (arthritis). Read more about cortisone injections » Source: iStock What is bursitis? A bursa is a closed, fluid-filled sac that functions as a gliding surface to reduce friction between tissues of the body. Bursae is plural for bursa. The major bursae are located adjacent to the tendons near the large joints, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. When a bursa becomes inflamed, the condition is known as bursitis. This can cause swelling, warmth, and tenderness in the affected area. Most commonly, bursitis is caused by local soft-tissue trauma or strain injury, and there is no infection (aseptic bursitis). On rare occasions, particularly when the immune system is suppressed, the bursa can become infected with bacteria. This condition is called septic bursitis. Source: iStock What is knee bursitis? […]
14November
2019
By Alan MozesHealthDay Reporter Latest Alzheimer’s News WEDNESDAY, Nov. 13, 2019 (HealthDay News) — Could illiteracy up your odds for dementia? That’s the suggestion of a study that found seniors who couldn’t read or write were two to three times more likely to develop dementia than those who could. The finding “provides strong evidence for a link between illiteracy and dementia risk,” said study author Jennifer Manly, a professor of neuropsychology at Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City. The finding also offers sobering insight into how dementia risk could be disproportionately affecting the roughly 32 million illiterate adults in the United States. For the study, Manly and her colleagues focused on men and women who were at least 65, with an average age of 77. Most had been born and raised in rural areas of the Dominican Republic before moving to northern Manhattan. None — including those who could read or write — had gone to school for more than four years. Three separate groups of participants were tracked for an average of about four years, with the first group formed in 1992, followed by a second in 1999 and a third in 2009, for […]
English
Arabic
Chinese (Simplified)
Dutch
French
German
Italian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish