Infants born addicted to opioids may be more likely to have smaller heads that might hinder their development, new research suggests. “Babies chronically exposed to opiates [during pregnancy] had a head size about a centimeter smaller” than babies born to moms not using drugs, said lead researcher Dr. Craig Towers. He’s an associate professor of… read on >
If your child has eczema, anything that aggravates the child’s skin can worsen symptoms, the American Academy of Dermatology says. While everyone’s triggers may be different, common ones include dry air, sweat and stress. As a child grows older, triggers may change. The academy urges parents to be familiar with their child’s triggers, and to… read on >
Ice skating is a fun winter activity, and it’s also great exercise. The National Safety Council suggests how you and your loved ones can skate safely: Wear skates that fit comfortably and provide enough ankle support. Sharpen your blades professionally each season. If outdoors, skate only on prepared areas where you are sure the ice… read on >
You can eat a healthful diet during the holidays with just a few tweaks to traditional recipes, the American Heart Association says. “We want to help people overcome their nutrition struggles and pave the way for a healthful festive season,” registered dietitian Annessa Chumbley said in an association news release. “Instead of looking at holiday… read on >
It’s great to get exercise during the holidays, as long as you take steps to avoid injuries, a sports medicine expert says. “I would encourage everyone to get out and be active, but we want to be sure that you are able to continue to get out and be active after the holidays,” said Dr.… read on >
Between the fresh air and the interesting scenery, running outdoors can be invigorating. But there are safety precautions to take when you leave a protected indoor environment. The Road Runners Club of America has a wealth of advice. For starters, take some precautions before you leave home. First, tell loved ones where you’ll be running.… read on >
The numbers are alarming. According to U.S. health officials, more than 200,000 children aged 14 or under are treated each year in emergency departments for playground-related injuries, about 10 percent of which involve “TBIs” — or traumatic brain injuries. Modern playground designs help reduce the risk of injury from falls, but they’re not implemented in… read on >
Younger breast cancer patients who have one or both breasts removed have lower levels of satisfaction and well-being than those who have breast-conserving surgery, a new study finds. The study included 560 women diagnosed with breast cancer by age 40. Of those, 28 percent had breast-conserving surgery and 72 percent had breast removal surgery (mastectomy).… read on >
There’s more evidence that when a survivor of early stage breast cancer takes up healthy eating and regular exercise, the odds of the disease returning go down. The key is sticking with such programs, said study lead author Dr. Wolfgang Janni. Healthier lifestyles “might improve the prognosis of breast cancer patients if adherence is high,”… read on >
In a good economy, the care at U.S. nursing homes falls because it’s harder to attract and keep staff, a new study contends. “During economic downturns, many people are willing to take positions with work environments they may not prefer because there aren’t many options,” said principal investigator Sean Shenghsiu Huang. “But when the economy… read on >
