“Dry January” is the self-improvement meme of the moment, with people around the world pledging to take a break from alcohol this month. “Basically, it’s a New Year’s resolution,” said Dr. Scott Krakower, assistant unit chief of psychiatry at Zucker Hillside Hospital, in Glen Oaks, N.Y. “You’ve been drinking during the holidays, and the idea… read on >
If you think a switch from sugar to a calorie-free sweetener might help you get healthier and shed pounds, think again. After years of research, there’s still only very weak evidence that no-cal sweeteners might be beneficial, according to German researchers who looked over data from 56 studies involving either adults or kids. The investigators… read on >
Some women react to the experience of pregnancy and childbirth with sadness, fear, anxiety and procrastination, the American Academy of Pediatrics says. The academy mentions these risk factors for developing depression during and after pregnancy: Hormonal changes. Personal or family history of depression. Feeling a lack of support from family and friends. Problems with a… read on >
A person may be diagnosed with dysphagia when there’s trouble swallowing. Difficulty swallowing can be related to a tumor or a nerve system disorder, the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery says. Symptoms may include drooling, a feeling that liquid or pills are sticking to the throat, sensing of a lump in the throat,… read on >
There are few life events more unsettling than being in a hospital emergency room. In situations that threaten life or limb, you may not have any say in your care. But in some instances, there is time to evaluate your options. Leaders in the field of emergency medicine have been developing initiatives, such as checklists… read on >
Don’t wait until you get sick to see a doctor — wellness visits for women can catch problems before they become serious, as well as make sure you’re taking all the right steps for good health. A well-woman checkup focuses on preventive care. It may include immunizations, screenings to check your blood pressure, cholesterol levels… read on >
For many city-dwelling teens with asthma, their chronic lung disease may go undiagnosed and untreated, a new study finds. According to a survey of more than 33,000 New York City high school students, 20 percent reported having asthma-like symptoms, but were not diagnosed with the illness. The researchers also found that teenage girls and Asian-Americans… read on >
For many, the start of the new year signals the start of a new diet. But what’s the best way to eat if you want to lose weight? For overall healthy eating, the best diet plan is the Mediterranean diet, according to U.S. News & World Report’s annual diet review. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to… read on >
Drivers should avoid talking on their cellphones while on the road, the U.S. National Safety Council warns. It’s a myth that the human brain can simultaneously handle both the many aspects of driving while chatting with a cellphone in one hand, the council says. The agency dispels these additional myths: Talking on a cell phone… read on >
A hysterectomy may be recommended for cases of uterine fibroids, endometriosis, pelvic support problems, abnormal uterine bleeding, chronic pelvic pain and gynecologic cancer, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists says. Hysterectomies can be done vaginally, abdominally or laparoscopically. Vaginal hysterectomies tend to cause the fewest complications, the college says. The procedure does carry potential… read on >
