Obesity can worsen multiple sclerosis symptoms, researchers say. Their study involved 140 patients with the relapsing-remitting form of MS, which means patients have periods of attacks (relapses), followed by periods of remission with no or few symptoms. The researchers found that obesity at the time of diagnosis was associated with more severe disability. The reason:… read on >
It’s not just Moms: Just ahead of Father’s Day, a new survey finds that about half of American dads say they’ve been criticized about their parenting styles. The way they enforced discipline topped the list of things naysayers called them to task on, with two-thirds of critiques focused on that subject. Forty-four percent of the… read on >
Summer is prime time for food poisoning, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As temperatures rise, foodborne germs flourish. To have a safe and enjoyable grilling season, the CDC recommends: Separate raw meat and poultry from other groceries. Chill meat, poultry and seafood until ready to grill. Wash your hands and work… read on >
In most states, laws for drinking and boating are similar to those governing drinking and driving. Boating laws apply to most any boat, including canoes, kayaks and rowboats. Alcohol is the top contributor to boating accidents, says the American Addiction Centers. Drinking and boating increase your chances of drowning, falling off the boat and driving… read on >
If your loved one’s crooning is music to your ears, the reason appears to rest with part of brain that is super-sensitive to pitch. That’s the upshot of a new study offering a fresh look into what makes us human. For the research, which aimed to understand the role of music in health, researchers compared… read on >
If you or a family member has asthma, your doctor has most likely mapped out the steps you need to take to treat an asthma flare. Creating a healthier home by minimizing your triggers can be as effective as medication for reducing symptoms and flares, according to a study from the American Academy of Pediatrics.… read on >
Creamy and rich, yogurt is a versatile dairy food that can be turned into delicious meals. It’s high in protein, probiotics to help with digestion, and other essential nutrients like calcium. Research has shown that the fat in yogurt doesn’t damage your heart, so full-fat is fine unless you’re on a low-fat diet for health… read on >
Can a DNA test predict a person’s future heart health? Perhaps, researchers say. A team of Canadian researchers found that by analyzing a person’s entire genome, it might be possible to predict their future heart disease risk. The so-called “polygenic risk score” analysis looks for key heart disease indicators — genetic “biomarkers” — along with… read on >
For most insect stings, a person can be treated at home, says MedlinePlus. For non-severe reactions, first aid is as follows: Do not use tweezers. Scrape a straight-edged object across the stinger for removal. Wash the site with soap and water. Apply ice on the site for 10 minutes. Take an antihistamine, or apply cream.… read on >
Allergy medications often contain an antihistamine. Some antihistamines can make users feel drowsy, unfocused and slow to react, says the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. When taking allergy medication, the FDA suggests: Follow directions, and read all package warnings. Use caution when driving or operating machinery. Avoid using alcohol, sedatives and tranquilizers after having taken… read on >
