Scarlet fever, also known as scarlatina, is a bacterial infection caused by “group a” streptococcus. There is no vaccine, and the disease is typically treated with a round of antibiotics. Possible symptoms to watch for are a red rash, fever, sore throat, redness in the underarms and groin, a whiteish tongue, swollen glands and body… read on >
X-rays have led to countless improvements in diagnosing and treating broken bones and other conditions. But they’re not without risks. Although the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says such risks are “small when compared to the benefits that [X-rays] can provide,” the agency says efforts should be made to prevent unneeded exposure to ionizing radiation.… read on >
Heart disease is a leading cause of death in the United States, but there are a number of things you can do to protect yourself, a cardiologist says. “Heart disease kills hundreds of thousands of Americans each year, but many of these conditions are preventable,” said researcher Dr. David Slotwiner, chief of the division of… read on >
If the constant stream of bad news from around the world gets to you, one psychiatrist suggests that helping others might make you feel better. “The sheer volume of stressful events occurring on a near-daily basis can make people feel pessimistic or fearful,” said researcher Emanuel Maidenberg, a clinical professor of psychiatry at the University… read on >
Is learning a second language on your bucket list? Here’s compelling evidence to get started right away. Numerous studies at institutions, including Penn State, have found that learning a new language is great for brain health. It can strengthen your brain just as exercise strengthens your muscles. And like muscles, the more you work at… read on >
Don’t count on physicians to keep drivers with dementia off the roads, a new study cautions. In-person license renewal and driver vision testing laws are more effective than mandatory doctor reporting of patients with dementia, researchers found. “The results of our study point to age-based licensing requirements as an effective way to improve safety,” said… read on >
Maybe there’s some truth in the long-standing belief that dogs can sense fear in a human. According to a new British study, anxious people may be at increased risk for dog bites. The finding came from a survey of nearly 700 people in northern England, done by researchers from the University of Liverpool. As part… read on >
Super Bowl Sunday is synonymous with greasy chicken wings, calorie-laden chili, salty potato chips and sugary brownies — but experts say there’s no reason you can’t enjoy tasty fare without sending your body into a nutritional tailspin. “On any given day, you normally consume 7 percent to 10 percent of fat as part of your… read on >
The United States is in the grip of a tough flu season, no doubt. It might seem as if every other person you know has fallen prey to influenza. Actually, though, health experts say this flu season is pretty much on par with other severe seasons. Here’s what else they have to say: How bad… read on >
With the new year often comes a host of resolutions to lead a healthier lifestyle. But how do you make those resolutions stick? The American Psychological Association suggests: Write your pledges down so you can hold yourself accountable. Start small and set realistic goals. Change behaviors one at a time Enlist a friend for support… read on >
