Croup tends to occur between 3 months and 5 years of age, the American Academy of Pediatrics says. Most common in autumn and winter, it causes swelling of the voice box and windpipe. This leads to a bark-like cough. Most instances of croup resolve on their own, but occasionally it can lead to complications that… read on >
While recommendations call for adults to exercise for 30 minutes a day, kids need double that amount — yes, 60 minutes of physical play a day. And being active as a family can make it easier for kids to reach this goal. For starters, make it a point to plan family outings that involve exercise,… read on >
Student athletes who specialize in one sport year-round could lose out in academics and other fields, a new study finds. “Today’s students have so many responsibilities and when you add specializing in a sport — with participation in school and club teams, practices, tournaments and lots of travel — there just aren’t enough hours in… read on >
The genes that make Fido your best friend are being uncovered by researchers. The investigators compared the DNA of modern dogs, ancient dogs and wolves. That comparison found something odd: Sometimes, the DNA of modern dogs didn’t match that from ancient canines. “We convinced ourselves that previous studies found many genes not associated with being… read on >
Robots work on assembly lines and assist doctors in the operating room. They manage inventory in warehouses and vacuum floors in homes. And one day soon, they could help care for Alzheimer’s patients. Several teams of scientists from around the world are investigating ways in which robots might help manage the daily living tasks of… read on >
Dairy products are a great source of calcium, vitamin D and other nutrients that help promote bone growth. The U.S. National Institutes of Health says most people in the United States aren’t getting the calcium they need for the heart, muscles, nerves and bones. The agency suggests: Drink low-fat or fat-free milk. Have milk with… read on >
Parents should play an active role in ensuring that their kids develop healthy eating habits to prevent too much weight gain. Excessive weight gain is associated with health issues such as breathing problems, type 2 diabetes, joint pain, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. The U.S. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases… read on >
People believed to have a penicillin allergy are often prescribed much stronger antibiotics that can raise their risk for dangerous infections, a new study suggests. But testing folks to make sure they really are allergic to penicillin could lower that danger, the researchers added. “We know that more than 95 percent of patients with an… read on >
Getting a nursery ready for a new baby can be a lot of fun, but keep in mind these important considerations to make it a safe haven. For crib safety, choose a new crib that meets the latest standards — stronger crib slats and mattress supports, improved hardware and no drop-side rails. The spacing between… read on >
Slow down and savor your ice cream sundae or smoothie — it’s the best way to prevent the dreaded head pain commonly known as “brain freeze.” “When you consume cold foods or drinks too fast, it cools down the carotid artery located just behind your jawline. Doing that chills the blood going to your brain,”… read on >
