Obese women who have been healthy for decades may still be on the path to heart problems, a new study suggests. “If you are obese, but free of disease like diabetes or hypertension, it does not mean you are free of the risk for cardiovascular disease,” said lead researcher Matthias Schulze. “You are still at… read on >
Urgent care centers are popping up across the country as an option for medical treatment. But it’s important to know the differences between these facilities and your local hospital emergency department. The ER is for life-threatening situations, yet many people go there when urgent care is more appropriate. According to one study, nearly half of… read on >
When it comes to kids and medical procedures like needles, expectation is everything. If they think the shot will hurt, it probably will, a new study finds. On the flip side, if they’re coaxed not to expect a lot of pain, they may feel it less. “We know that expectation affects pain experience in adults;… read on >
Many doctors have internet portals to help patients manage their care. But that doesn’t mean older folks will use them. A University of Michigan poll found only about half of patients 50 to 80 years old have set up an online account with their health care provider. “The health care system has provided patient portals… read on >
Can an artificially sweetened drink or food really satisfy your sweet tooth without raising your blood sugar levels? That depends on what’s in the food or drink, but a new review confirms that artificial sweeteners alone won’t cause a spike in blood sugar. “It’s been widely accepted that nonnutritive sweeteners don’t raise blood sugar, but… read on >
May is Women’s Health Month. With that in mind, doctors are offering suggestions for steps that women can take to reduce their risk of diseases and safeguard their health, both physical and mental. Dr. Blanca Sckell is medical director of the Ambulatory Care Center and internal medicine program at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens, in New York City.… read on >
(HealthDay News) — Even if you discover that you have the first biological signs of Alzheimer’s, you are not doomed to develop the crippling dementia, a new study suggests. “Just because you have amyloid [proteins] in the brain doesn’t mean you’re going to get dementia tomorrow. It doesn’t mean you’re going to get dementia in… read on >
Sitting for long hours at a desk can lead to poor posture, lower-back pain and increased risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The American Council on Exercise suggests how to combat the negative effects of too much sitting: Stand for a few minutes every hour to activate unused muscles. Sit on a stability ball for… read on >
Losing weight should be part of living a healthier lifestyle. The U.S. Office on Women’s Health says there are no quick, easy fixes for weight loss, and that the key is to focus on small, healthy changes that you can practice for the rest of your life. The agency suggests: Set concrete goals that are… read on >
Swimming is a great way to stay in shape while having fun and without stressing your joints. If you’re ready to take your lap swimming to the next level, consider joining a masters swimming program. U.S. Masters Swimming is a nonprofit that promotes the activity and works with 1,500 clubs around the United States. It’s… read on >
