Periodic limb movementsare repetitive movements that typically occur in the lower limbs every 20-40 seconds during sleep, the National Sleep Foundation says. The actions may resemble muscle twitches, jerking movements or upward flexing of the feet. Episodes of periodic limb movement syndrome (PLMS) can last from a few minutes to a few hours. While the… read on >
As if older women didn’t already worry enough about their bone health, new research suggests that anxiety may up their risk for fractures. Based on an analysis involving almost 200 postmenopausal Italian women, the finding builds upon previous research linking anxiety to a higher risk for heart disease and gastrointestinal problems. “Our findings are quite… read on >
Whether you’re studying for an important exam or learning a new language, there’s more proof that nonstop cramming sessions may not translate into the long-term memory retention you want. Memory is a complex process that requires time for the brain to absorb new information. One needed step is called memory consolidation, when the newly created… read on >
While much attention has been paid to the dangers of e-cigarette use among teens, new research shows that more than half of all tobacco smoked by young people comes from hookahs. The researchers warned that smoking cessation strategies should include these water pipes, which are gaining popularity in this age group. “Most hookah smokers in… read on >
Male cancer patients seem to fare significantly better following immunotherapy treatment than female patients, new research indicates. “Both sex and gender can potentially affect the strength of the body’s immune response,” explained study author Dr. Fabio Conforti, from the European Institute of Oncology in Milan, Italy. For example, Conforti noted that women generally show stronger… read on >
Teens who watch more medical marijuana ads are more likely to smoke pot themselves, new research indicates. “Our findings suggest that increased exposure to medical marijuana advertising is associated with increased marijuana use and related negative consequences throughout adolescence,” said study lead author Elizabeth D’Amico, of the RAND Corporation. “This work highlights the importance of… read on >
Generic prescription drugs should be cheap, but prices for some have soared in the United States in recent years. Now a group of U.S. hospitals thinks it has a solution: a nonprofit drug maker. Earlier this year, the consortium of several large hospital systems announced it would form a nonprofit drug company called Project Rx.… read on >
Caregiving for a loved one can be very rewarding. But it doesn’t come without stress and anxiety. Symptoms of caregiver stress may include feeling overwhelmed, loneliness, gaining weight, fatigue, becoming easily irritated and having body aches. To better deal with caregiver stress, the Office on Women’s Health suggests: Investigate caregiving resources inyour community. Accept help… read on >
Latex may be found in products such as balloons, dishwashing gloves, waistbands, rubber toys, pacifiers, rubber bands and tape. If you have a latex allergy, exposure can cause a reaction ranging from sneezing, coughing, a rash and chest tightness to anaphylactic shock. The American Academy of Family Physicians suggests how to manage a latex allergy:… read on >
Twenty-three more illnesses caused by an E. coli outbreak tied to tainted romaine lettuce were reported by U.S. health officials on Wednesday. That brings the total number of cases to 172, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said. But there was potential good news: The outbreak, tied to lettuce grown near Yuma, Ariz.,… read on >
