Doctors, don’t be afraid to deliver bad news. Telling cancer patients the truth about their chances of survival does not harm a physician’s relationship with those people. It could even make it better, according to a new study. “We hope this information will reassure clinicians about any negative impacts of these discussions on their relationships… read on >
Getting a better night’s shut-eye may be as easy as cracking open a bedroom window or door, a small new study suggests. Dutch researchers used high-tech methods to track the nighttime movements of 17 healthy volunteers over five nights. Some of the participants slept with a bedroom door or window open, allowing for better ventilation… read on >
If you’re 65 or older, your immune system probably is weaker than when you were younger, and you’re at higher risk of contracting foodborne illness. The foodsafety.gov website cites these specific changes among older people: The gastrointestinal tract holds on to food longer, affording more time for bacteria to grow. The liver and kidneys may… read on >
Women who use a breast pump should make sure the device is well cleaned to prevent contamination. Breast pumps are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The agency suggests how to clean the device: As soon as possible after pumping, wash each piece separately using liquid dishwashing soap and plenty of warm water.… read on >
Fall yardwork can stir up allergies, but there are ways to reduce the risk of flare-ups, an ear, nose and throat specialist says. “Know your triggers and avoid those triggers,” said Dr. Do-Yeon Cho, an assistant professor of otolaryngology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. “First, find out if you’re allergic to any seasonal… read on >
Deer hunting this season? As you head to the woods, make safety your priority, two experts say. Joe Hess, of the pediatric trauma program at Penn State Children’s Hospital, reminds hunters to treat every firearm as if it were loaded: Never point it at anyone and never place a finger on the trigger until ready… read on >
Stretchy resistance bands go anywhere and can be used by almost anyone. They’re also as effective as they are inexpensive. But it’s important to use them properly to get all their strength training and coordination benefits. As you stretch a resistance band, you’ll start to feel more and more tension — that’s what forces your… read on >
Texting, talking on cellphones, eating, drinking — distractions such as these are a driving hazard, and are more likely to occur among young men, new research shows. People most prone to distracted driving also often tend to think it’s “no big deal” — socially acceptable, the Norwegian study found. These drivers often also felt that… read on >
Don’t try saying you’re too or too busy to exercise, especially after that calorie-laden Thanksgiving dinner. Any level of physical activity can reduce seniors’ risk of heart disease, researchers report. The 18-year study included more than 24,000 adults ages 39 to 79. They found a link between physical activity and reduced risk of heart disease… read on >
Even young children have stress. If it’s bad enough, it may interfere with your youngster’s sleep. The National Sleep Foundation mentions these warning signs of stress-induced loss of sleep in children: Decreased appetite. Headache. Bedwetting. Stomach upset or pain. Inability to relax. Aggressiveness or stubbornness. Inability to control emotions. Unwillingness to participate in family or… read on >
