Cold temperatures can be unpleasant, even for healthy people. But for those with cold intolerance, cold temperatures can be quite uncomfortable. MedlinePlus mentions these potential triggers of cold intolerance: Anemia. Anorexia nervosa. Blood vessel problems. Chronic illness. General poor health. Underactive thyroid. Brain problems. If you have long-term or severe intolerance to cold, MedlinePlus urges… read on >
Few families are able to escape squabbles completely, whether between spouses, children or other relatives. But a Danish study that looked at nearly 10,000 men and women, aged 36 to 52, warns that stressful social relations can be more than just unpleasant — they can increase your overall risk of early death. How can you… read on >
High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a risk factor for stroke, heart disease and other dangerous conditions, but it offers no early warning signs. That’s why it’s so important to have your pressure checked regularly. You can take preventive steps to keep it in line by getting regular exercise and by adding foods that support… read on >
More than one in 10 older female veterans experienced sexual assault while on active duty, a new study shows. Doctors “caring for older women veterans should recognize the prevalence and importance of [military sexual trauma] when assessing patients’ health concerns,” said study author Dr. Carolyn Gibson. Gibson is with the San Francisco VA Health Care… read on >
Cyber attackers who target hospital databases mostly go after patient contact and financial information, not medical records, a new study finds. The data that hackers seek could lead to identity theft and financial fraud, according to investigators from Michigan State University in East Lansing, and Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore. Moreover, this is the focus… read on >
The gap in death rates between U.S. whites and minority groups has been narrowing in recent years, but a new study suggests that trend stopped between 2009 and 2012. “After years of progress in reducing racial/ethnic mortality disparities, our study shows that progress among most racial/ethnic and age groups has stalled and/or reversed in the… read on >
Women, if you’re bothered by frequent hot flashes, it may be more than a mere annoyance. New research offers evidence that frequent or persistent hot flashes are linked to higher odds of heart attack and stroke. The finding stems from a 20-year study of about 3,300 women during menopause. Of those women, 231 had a… read on >
Making a habit out of all-nighters or cramming can be unhealthy and lead to poor scholastic performance, says the American Psychological Association. To banish bad study habits, the group suggests: Create a new habit in 60 days. Embrace a routine. Find a way to enjoy your work. Take breaks. Develop realistic goals. Turn off your… read on >
Snoring occurs when the upper airways become narrow, says Harvard Medical School. As a result, airflow is disrupted, making tissues vibrate and produce the snoring noise. To help alleviate snoring, Harvard Medical school suggests: Reduce alcohol consumption. Lose excess weight. Rinse stuffy sinuses with saline before bed. Use allergy medication or a humidifier. Sleep on… read on >
Many people who take the antidepressant Zoloft report feeling better. But new research suggests the drug may be treating their anxiety, rather than their depression, at least in the early weeks. Zoloft (sertraline) — and the family of similar drugs it belongs to — may actually take months to ease classic symptoms of depression, U.K.… read on >
