High blood pressure is a serious risk factor for heart disease, stroke and other life-threatening medical conditions. While many people need medication and dietary changes to control their blood pressure, exercise is a key component of nearly every management plan. Scientists know that exercise causes the body to adapt in ways that lower blood pressure,… read on >
Don’t invite skin cancer to your holiday weekend. As you celebrate America’s independence at beaches, pools or backyard parties, remember that the sun’s damaging rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. — and protecting yourself is a must. “When it comes to sunscreen, people in general don’t put on enough, and they don’t… read on >
Thirteen paralyzed young adults have regained elbow and hand movement after undergoing complex surgery in Australia, surgeons report. The patients now brush their hair and teeth, feed themselves and put on makeup — tasks that were impossible before the “nerve transfer” surgery, the doctors report in the July 4 issue of The Lancet medical journal.… read on >
Eating out can be stressful if you have a food allergy. Before you leave for the restaurant, you should read the menu, call ahead and speak to the manager, says the Food Allergy Research and Education organization. When at the restaurant, FARE suggests: Tell your waiter about your allergy. Ask what is in your dish… read on >
Every day, more than 300 children are treated in emergency rooms for burn-related injuries, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To help prevent your child from being burned, the CDC suggests: Install and maintain smoke alarms at home. Supervise children’s use of stoves, ovens and microwaves. Set your water heater’s thermostat to… read on >
Summer is synonymous with mosquitoes, and that means possible exposure to the West Nile and Zika viruses. Both are spread mainly through mosquito bites. Most people won’t experience symptoms from either virus, but there are important differences to be aware of. West Nile Up to 20% of infected people have symptoms, such as a fever,… read on >
Craving a burger but seeking a break from red meat? For a meal that looks decadent but is healthy, too, a juicy turkey burger is the answer. Though turkey burgers can be dry, a simple addition keeps ground turkey from drying out: Mix a low-sugar BBQ sauce into the meat before cooking. Then enhance the… read on >
Fireworks are a beautiful sight to behold, but they can damage your hearing if you’re not careful. Protecting your hearing should be one of the safety precautions you take when you and your family are at fireworks displays and other events on the Fourth of July, the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) says. Fireworks and firecrackers… read on >
The Fourth of July holiday is one of the most deadly times on America’s roads, so Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is urging everyone to avoid drinking and driving. “Celebrating our nation’s independence with backyard barbecues, fireworks displays and other festivities should be fun, not dangerous,” said Bob Garguilo, executive director of MADD Connecticut. “Celebrate… read on >
An EpiPen is an injection device containing epinephrine, which is used to treat severe allergic reactions, says the University of North Carolina. UNC offers this advice on using an EpiPen: Remove the device from its clear carrier tube. Hold it in your fist with the orange tip pointing downward. With your other hand, remove the… read on >
