The scourge of addiction among Americans young and old made big headlines in 2019, as did one big change in heart health guidelines. Here are the top health stories of the past year, as compiled by editors at HealthDay. Vaping takes hold, and new dangers emerge Perhaps no health issue dominated headlines this past year… read on >
A new artificial pancreas system, drugs that help control blood sugar and protect the heart and the kidneys, a new medication that delays type 1 diabetes, and a new way to track blood sugar throughout the day — 2019 was a pretty big year in diabetes care. “This has been a good year for patients… read on >
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing stops and starts during sleep, says Mayo Clinic. It can lead to many complications, from daytime fatigue to high blood pressure. Mayo Clinic mentions these common signs of sleep apnea: Loud snoring. Gasping for air during sleep. Awakening with a dry mouth. Morning headache. Difficulty staying asleep.… read on >
Childhood obesity is such a crisis in America that officials have been updating recommendations for how early intervention should begin. Obesity now affects as many as 20% of the nation’s children. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force reviewed the literature on kids between 2 and 18 years of age and now recommends that kids over… read on >
Rushed for lunch? Yes, that nearby fast-food chain is convenient, but by tweaking your choices you can cut unwanted salt, fat and calories. When the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) updates its food guidelines, it doesn’t exactly break down how you’re supposed to fit all the healthy parts of the food pyramid into your lunch.… read on >
If you plan to make a New Year’s resolution about improving your health, the American Medical Association (AMA) has some good suggestions. “With too many holiday sweets and not enough exercise likely in the rearview mirror, now is the perfect time to consider your personal goals and how you can make positive health choices in… read on >
Obesity is seldom a friend to health, but in one medical context it might give patients a slight advantage, new research suggests. Specifically, when Australian researchers looked at trials of atezolizumab, an immune system-based treatment for lung cancer, they found that the drug worked better in people who were overweight. The trial involved more than… read on >
Cold weather dangers — such as ice-melting chemicals and sleet — can affect your pet’s health, says the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. To help keep your pet safe this winter, the ASPCA urges you to: Remove snow between your pet’s foot pads. Towel dry your pet after walks. Wash and… read on >
Bruises occur when blood vessels below the skin rupture, says Cleveland Clinic. Most bruising is caused by minor accidents, medications and age. Bruises caused by minor injuries usually disappear within a week or two. Cleveland Clinic suggests getting a bruise checked by your doctor if it: Shows no signs of improvement after a week. Is… read on >
Elaborate feasts are a centerpiece of the holidays, but all that food can make people with restricted diets feel left out, a new study suggests. People whose allergies or health, religious or cultural norms keep them from sharing the meals with others can leave them lonely, researchers say. “Despite being physically present with others, having… read on >
