Backyard fireworks and sparklers are a Fourth of July staple. They can be fun, but also dangerous, health experts warn. Knowing how to set them off safely can prevent a celebration from becoming a tragedy. And the National Safety Council advises everyone to steer clear from all consumer fireworks, and only enjoy fireworks at a… read on >
Your hearing can take a beating during Fourth of July fireworks. So don’t forget hearing protection when you go to fireworks displays this holiday, the American Academy of Audiology (AAA) says. Noise from fireworks can reach up to 155 decibels, which is louder than a jet plane taking off (150 decibels) or a jackhammer. Noise… read on >
Though you may face challenges if you’re carrying excess weight or haven’t been active in a long time, you can still get fit and gain all the benefits that exercise has to offer. The easiest way to get started is with walking because it’s low-impact and low-risk, and all you need is a pair of… read on >
Prenatal testing and care is a good idea throughout pregnancy to make sure the pregnant woman and the fetus stay healthy. The U.S. National Institutes of Health says these tests are typically prescribed for pregnant women: Glucose challenge screening. This test is given between 24 and 26 weeks of pregnancy, and determines the woman’s risk… read on >
It can happen when you’re traveling on business, running late to an appointment, or are simply running out of time to make dinner. You’re facing fast food or no food. Use these tips to make the most of this meal. Start by looking for the lowest calorie selections. Some restaurants list the calories and fat… read on >
Medicines that protect pets from fleas and ticks may help lower people’s risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as Zika, researchers report. “Insect-borne infectious diseases remain primary causes of severe illnesses and fatalities worldwide, and new approaches to preventing outbreaks of these diseases are critically needed,” said researcher Peter Schultz, chief executive officer of Calibr and… read on >
Doctors need not fear that sporting a tattoo might drive patients away. That’s the finding of a small, new study that included seven doctors in the emergency department of a trauma center in a large Pennsylvania city who wore either fake body piercings or tattoos, or both, or no body art. The researchers surveyed nearly… read on >
Fire Capt. Jay Northup lit the fuse for the intended climax of his backyard fireworks display, a pricey 12-mortar box that would create a wondrous shower of glittering lights over his neighborhood. Three of the 12 tubes went off, and then silence. A dud. “I spent $600 on that, it’s going to work,” recalled Northup,… read on >
West Nile Virus is an infection that is spread by mosquitoes, and is commonly found in Africa, West Asia and the Middle East. The virus made its way to the United States in 1999 and has been reported in 48 states, the American Academy of Family Physicians says. The main symptoms of West Nile Virus… read on >
An abscess forms when germs enter the body through an open wound. An abscess often is raised and may feel warm and painful to the touch. The Nemours Foundation advises against popping, pushing, squeezing or touching an abscess. You can apply a warm compress to the area, which may help open and drain the wound.… read on >
