Lung illnesses and deaths from vaping have been grabbing headlines for months, and now two new studies offer fresh evidence pointing to long-term respiratory concerns. The studies link the use of electronic cigarettes to asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). “These studies add to the body of evidence on the relationship between electronic cigarette… read on >
Found in more than 600 different medicines, acetaminophen is the most common drug ingredient in the United States, says the Consumer Healthcare Products Association. To use the painkiller safely, the CHPA urges you to: Always read and follow the directions on the label. Never take more than the recommended dose. Know if your medicines contain… read on >
Most women will get a vaginal yeast infection at some point, says the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Its uncomfortable symptoms may include burning and itching. A yeast infection is typically treated with an antifungal medicine. This drug usually can be purchased over-the-counter, and comes in the form of a cream, tablet, ointment… read on >
A condition called lymphopenia — low levels of lymphocyte blood cells — could be an early warning for illness, a new study suggests. Danish researchers linked the condition to a 60% increased risk of death from any cause during the study period. A low lymphocyte count was also associated with a 1.5- to 2.8-fold increased… read on >
The idea of marijuana causing a psychotic breakdown sounds like something out of the camp film classic “Reefer Madness,” but many experts argue it’s not that far-fetched. As legalization of recreational marijuana spreads across the United States, more people are showing up in ERs with psychotic symptoms after consuming too much pot, said Dr. Itai… read on >
Teens spend as many as nine hours each day on social media, says Abington Hospital in Pennsylvania. While social media is a great way to stay connected to friends and get information, it can also take a toll on mental health, the hospital says. To be a healthier social media user, it suggests: Be aware… read on >
Going to the gym is supposed to improve your health, but it can also be a hotbed of cold and flu bugs, an expert warns. “The biggest thing about the gym is there are a lot of areas where germs, viruses and fungus can be year-round,” said Bryan Combs, a nurse practitioner in the University… read on >
Like the mighty grizzly bear that hibernates in winter, many people spend more time sleeping during this cold, dark season, a new survey reveals. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM), 34% of Americans say they sleep more in winter, compared with 10% who claim they sleep less during this time of year.… read on >
How teens see their family’s social status may play a part in their mental health and success at school, a new study suggests. Social status appears to be more important than what their parents do for a living, how much money they have or how educated they are, the researchers said. “The amount of financial… read on >
New research involving the DNA of 200,000 U.S. veterans suggests that there really is such a thing as a “worry gene.” Researchers have identified six genetic variants linked to anxiety — a discovery that may help explain why anxiety and depression often go hand in hand. “This is the richest set of results for the… read on >
