Using medical scribes in emergency departments is a smart way to increase the number of patients seen by doctors and reduce the time patients spend there, a new study indicates. Medical scribes do administrative tasks, such as documenting visits while a doctor evaluates the patient, printing out paperwork and arranging tests and appointments. While most… read on >
Guarding against injury means increasing both flexibility and strength. Target the muscles that support your ankles to protect your joints by strength-training two or three times a week on alternating days and always after you’ve warmed up. Start by using a resistance band to work calf muscles. Sit on the floor, with legs straight. Wrap… read on >
When it comes to allergies, allergic rhinitis with its congested, itchy nose gets a lot of attention. But for some, allergic conjunctivitis with itchy, watery eyes is the greater nuisance. You might even have both reactions. Allergic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva — the layer of tissue lining the eyelids and covering the whites… read on >
Minus 29 Fahrenheit in Fargo, minus 28 in Minneapolis, minus 13 in Des Moines. With potential record-setting low temperatures ahead for much of the nation, one expert warns that frostbite can quickly strike exposed skin. “With wind chills approaching the single digits and below zero, it is possible to develop ‘frostnip’ with progression to frostbite… read on >
E-cigarette use is surging among American teenagers, with millions of kids flirting with nicotine addiction by regularly vaping. Unfortunately, these kids are going to face a rocky road if they try to kick their nicotine habit, experts say. There are no tested or approved methods for quitting e-cigarettes, said Linda Richter, director of policy research… read on >
For years, you’ve probably heard that breakfast is the most important meal of the day if you’re trying to maintain a healthy weight. But new research suggests that’s not true. Eating a hearty breakfast doesn’t help people eat less later in the day, and those who have breakfast end up eating more calories each day,… read on >
Dry eye occurs when the amount of tears you produce fails to keep the surface of the eye adequately lubricated, the National Eye Institute says. The risk of developing dry eye increases with age, and more women than men have the condition. Dry eye can create scratchy or stinging feelings, dryness, discharge, pain and redness.… read on >
Cold, dry winter weather can wreak havoc on your hands, triggering rashes, dry patches and irritation. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests how to prevent a rash on your hands: Wear task-appropriate gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals, such as dyes and detergents. Wear insulated gloves or mittens in cold weather. Wash your… read on >
If you’d like to lighten up on carbs without compromising the taste of dishes you love, make cauliflower “rice” your go-to substitute ingredient. Cauliflower is among the healthiest of all vegetables, high in vitamin C, fiber and folate. “Ricing” it simply means pulsing it in a food processor until chunks become the size of rice… read on >
Slow and sneaky weight gain usually happens over time — on average one pound a year — so it’s not always obvious at first, especially if you don’t regularly weigh yourself. But if this weight creep goes unnoticed year after year, by middle age, your middle may lose the sleek look you had when you… read on >
