Antibiotics are frequently prescribed to fight bacterial infections. But if used improperly, the bacteria they are meant to kill can become resistant. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these guidelines for safe antibiotic use: Use the medicine exactly as directed. Make sure the recipient takes the entire course of antibiotics, even if the person is… read on >
Risk of heat-related disease and death is rising worldwide due to climate change, a new report warns. Hotter temperatures threaten the elderly and other vulnerable people with heat stress, and heart and kidney disease, according to an international team of experts. Last year, more than 157 million at-risk people were exposed to heat waves worldwide.… read on >
Running, swimming, cycling and other types of endurance exercise can slow cellular aging, but strength training may not, a new study suggests. Researchers looked at how different types of exercise affected telomeres in 124 inactive, young, healthy adults. Telomeres are protective caps on the ends of chromosomes. As you age, telomeres shorten and result in… read on >
Infant ear infections can be a source of frustration for parents and babies alike. But there are steps to lessen them and, when they do occur, “less is more” is a better way to treat them. A typical infection can begin with bacterial growth. Inflammation can lead to fluid buildup behind the eardrum. The eustachian… read on >
Many older drivers take medications known to raise the risk of a crash, a new study shows. It found that nearly 50 percent of older adults who drive use seven or more medications. Nearly 20 percent take what are called potentially inappropriate medications because they have limited benefits, pose excess risk of harm, or both.… read on >
Women at increased risk for breast cancer should start receiving mammograms earlier than recommended, even as young as age 30, a new study contends. Young women who have dense breasts or a family history of breast cancer appear to benefit from regular mammograms as much as women in their 40s do, researchers reported. The findings… read on >
The American Dental Association warns against certain foods and beverages that can contribute to tooth decay. Some foods are more difficult to clean from teeth, and eating them repeatedly can lead to cavities. Here’s the ADA’s list of foods you should avoid: Hard candies — They tend to be full of sugar and can trigger… read on >
There’s little you can do about wrinkles appearing — they’re a natural part of the aging process. That doesn’t mean you can’t take steps to avoid becoming too wrinkled, the American Academy of Dermatology says. Here’s are the academy’s suggestions: Wear sunscreen daily and apply it to all skin that is not covered by clothing.… read on >
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, but you’re worried about type 2 diabetes, you might want to skip sugary drinks. New research suggests that drinking sugar-sweetened beverages, such as cola, likely boost your risk of type 2 diabetes much more than the sugar found in fruit or even 100 percent fruit juices. “All foods are… read on >
Almost every relationship will be affected by conflict at some point. Whether it’s with a spouse or a child, a co-worker or friend, there are healthy ways to address and resolve these problems, according to experts at the University of Texas at Austin Counseling and Mental Health Center. Differences of opinion are usually at the… read on >
