Any illness can reduce or eliminate your appetite. But if the illness is treatable, appetite should return after treatment, says MedlinePlus. MedlinePlus mentions potential causes of appetite loss: Emotions such as sadness, depression or grief. Serious illnesses such as cancer or HIV. Use of certain medications or street drugs. Hypothyroidism. Pregnancy. Aging. Contact a doctor… read on >
As America grapples with an opioid epidemic, it has become even more important to dispose of your leftover prescription medications properly, one pharmacist says. “Many people don’t realize that simply throwing away leftover medications or flushing them down the toilet is actually very dangerous,” said Karen Youmbi, manager of pharmacy regulatory surveillance and outpatient pharmacies… read on >
Your beloved pets need to be part of any plan you craft for emergencies, such as hurricanes or floods. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration says you should stock at least one week’s supply of food and fresh water for your pet. If your pet takes medication, stock a one-week supply of that, too. Have… read on >
Watching your cholesterol intake has gotten easier. Nutrition experts now agree that certain foods high in cholesterol, like shrimp and eggs, don’t have the impact on your blood cholesterol that was once thought. Even better, some foods can help lower your blood cholesterol level. Walnuts have healthy unsaturated fats that help lower LDL — that’s… read on >
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 >
