Nearly 6 in 10 Americans say they have suffered financial hardship due to health care costs, a new study finds. Researchers from the American Cancer Society looked at three different types of problems: difficulty paying medical bills, worrying about bills, and delaying or doing without care. “With increasing prevalence of multiple chronic conditions, higher patient… read on >
A gene therapy that tweaks the immune system might offer hope to people with blood cancer that has resisted standard treatments, a new preliminary trial suggests. The cancer, called multiple myeloma, arises in certain white blood cells. It is currently incurable, but there are treatments that can help people live with the disease for years.… read on >
If you wince while eating sweets or brushing your teeth, you may have sensitive teeth, says the American Dental Association. Causes of sensitive teeth include: Tooth decay. A cracked tooth. Worn tooth enamel, fillings or tooth roots. Regular dental checkups, desensitizing toothpaste and less aggressive tooth brushing can help people with sensitive teeth, says the… read on >
A chemical peel can reduce signs of aging and treat a variety of skin conditions, says the American Academy of Dermatology. Acne, discoloration, freckles and sun-damaged skin are some of the many conditions commonly treated with a peel. After treatment, patients often see smoother skin, a brighter complexion, a more-even skin tone and fewer wrinkles.… read on >
When you want to create a festive celebration without a fat and calorie overload, a seafood-based salad is the perfect choice. To step up the extravagance, make it with crabmeat. Crab is high in vitamin B12 and is a delicious, lean protein to pair with fresh greens. If you’re buying pre-packaged crabmeat, check it for… read on >
“No sex for six weeks” used to be the standard advice following childbirth and, according to many doctors, it is still a good practice to allow healing. But it’s not a hard-and-fast rule. Although a woman is at the highest risk for infection during the first two weeks postpartum (a period that could be longer… read on >
Facial moisturizers are a mainstay against the march of time, smoothing over wrinkles and keeping dry skin supple. But new research shows that women pay a much higher price for that anti-aging weapon than men do. In the study, dermatologists from Massachusetts General Hospital checked the prices for 110 facial moisturizers from three leading online… read on >
Need to see your doctor, but can’t take time off from work? There’s an app for that. And new research shows patients find the ability to see a doctor “virtually” convenient and satisfying. Nine out of 10 people who had a virtual visit with a doctor said it was more convenient than other ways of… read on >
Botox injections work by weakening or paralyzing muscles, says MedlinePlus. Common side effects include pain, swelling or bruising at the injection site. Depending on the condition being treated, the effects of Botox can last from three to 12 months. Doctors often use Botox in small doses to treat: Facial wrinkles. Underarm sweating. Abdominal muscle spasms.… read on >
Sticking with a diet starts with having a plan that maps out meals and snacks based on foods that help you feel full longer. After all, if you feel satisfied, you’ll be less likely to rummage through your kitchen cabinets looking for treats. But sometimes cravings can get the better of you. You might be… read on >
