Popularized in movies, the phrase, “You’ll shoot your eye out,” is often repeated jokingly whenever someone talks about BB or paintball guns. But it’s no laughing matter. These “non-powder” guns can cause serious, life-altering injuries, and these injuries are now happening far more often. In fact, a new study found that while the overall rate… read on >
Obese teenagers can have certain brain differences from their thinner peers — changes that might signal damage from inflammation, a new, preliminary study suggests. Using advanced MRI techniques, researchers found that obese teenagers tended to have signs of decreased “integrity” in the brain’s white matter. White matter contains the fibers that connect different areas of… read on >
Many working-age Americans struggle to pay for the heart medications that protect them from heart attack, stroke and heart disease, a new study reports. About one in eight adults suffering from a high-risk heart problem say financial strain has caused them to skip taking their meds, delay filling a prescription, or take a lower dose… read on >
Black ice is an invisible winter danger for drivers, says the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). But you can help protect yourself by knowing how to deal with this seasonal hazard. The USDA give drivers advice about black ice: It tends to form at night or in the early morning. The ice also forms… read on >
Sipping hot cocoa on the couch during winter may be a peaceful pursuit. But if cabin fever sets in on you or your family, it may make you very restless. SCL Health gives advice for staying sane inside this winter: Spend time in the kitchen. Cook fun, new meals. Get crafty with an arts-and-crafts project.… read on >
Stress abounds during the holiday season, but you can ease it, an expert says. The way to manage stress is to recognize it and take steps to minimize it so it doesn’t overwhelm you, according to Cinnamon Stetler, an associate professor of psychology at Furman University, in Greenville, S.C. One way to ease holiday stress… read on >
Many Americans aren’t getting a solid seven hours of sleep a night, putting them at risk for diabetes, heart disease and obesity. But it’s the brain that needs a good night’s sleep the most, according to Dr. Randall Wright, a neurologist at Houston Methodist Hospital. “When you are asleep, your brain catches up on tasks… read on >
First-aid myths may do more harm than good, says the University of Rochester Medical Center. The school mentions these examples of first-aid folklore, and what to do instead: Putting hot water on frozen skin can cause serious damage. Slowly thaw skin with warm water instead. Rubbing alcohol does not bring down a fever. Use ibuprofen… read on >
People are creatures of habit, so breaking old practices and forming new routines can be daunting. To start and maintain a new routine, NorthShore University Health System recommends: Figure out what needs to be in your routine. Set small goals. Lay out a plan. Be consistent over time. Be prepared. Make it fun. Track your… read on >
Whether it involves resisting a piece of chocolate cake or an ice cold beer, fighting temptation may be easier said than done. But with clear goals, self-monitoring and practice, you can improve your self-control, says the American Psychological Association. The association suggests: Use the “out of sight, out of mind” approach. Prepare “if-then” scenarios for… read on >
