You’ve probably heard the health warning: Sitting is the new smoking. The importance of getting up and walking to prevent serious health issues when you sit at a desk all day long has gotten a lot of attention recently. Those health risks include increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess weight and high cholesterol levels,… read on >
Headaches are common in children and teens, but many parents aren’t sure when to seek professional help for their child, a new survey finds. The survey of parents with children aged 6 to 18 found that two-thirds said their child has had a headache not caused by a fall or head injury. “Headaches are very… read on >
The more you smoke, the greater your chances of developing a common heart rhythm disorder that increases your risk of stroke and early death, researchers say. “If you smoke, stop smoking, and if you don’t smoke, don’t start,” said study author Dagfinn Aune, a postdoctoral researcher at Imperial College London. “We found that smokers are… read on >
Many children are prescribed powerful opioid painkillers they don’t really need, putting them and those around them at risk, a new study shows. More than one in 10 kids enrolled in Tennessee’s Medicaid program received an opioid prescription each year between 1999 and 2014, even though they did not have a severe condition requiring powerful… read on >
Today’s ever-stressful lifestyles demand techniques to cultivate your healthiest self. The American Heart Association suggests these healthier habits: Sleep well, since getting a good night’s sleep helps improve eating habits, mood and memory. Add yoga or meditation to your life. Finding coping methods, such as a brisk walk, volunteering or starting a new hobby. Get… read on >
There’s no need to panic if you cut yourself with a knife or broken glass, one dermatologist says, since most cuts can be treated at home. “The most important thing to do is to gently wash the cut to prevent an infection,” said Dr. Laura Ferris, an associate professor of dermatology at the University of… read on >
A migraine diary may help you pinpoint — and avoid — headache triggers, a neurologist says. About 12 percent of people in the United States suffer from migraines, according to the Migraine Research Foundation. “A migraine can be debilitating and can impact daily activities, your family and social life. Unfortunately, migraine often goes undiagnosed and… read on >
The type 2 diabetes tide remains unchecked in the United States, as does pre-diabetes — having a blood sugar level higher than normal, but not high enough for a diabetes diagnosis. A U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report found that about 30 million Americans — roughly 10 percent of the population — have… read on >
Need another reason to eat healthy? New evidence bolsters the notion that nutritionally rich foods might help prevent or minimize asthma. While the study couldn’t prove cause and effect, one asthma specialist said there’s certainly no downside to eating better. “The health benefits of a diet rich in plant foods and unprocessed foods are already… read on >
New research suggests that no two brains are alike, as genetics and experience make their mark on your mind. “With our study, we were able to confirm that the structure of people’s brains is very individual,” said study author Lutz Jancke. He is a professor of neuropsychology at the University of Zurich in Switzerland. “Just… read on >
