One hundred years ago, the deadliest influenza pandemic of all time made a ravaging march across the globe. The “Spanish” flu of 1918-19 infected an estimated one-third of the world’s population and killed between 50 million and 100 million people, modern epidemiologists estimate. That raises the inevitable question as the United States battles its way… read on >
You need iron to make hemoglobin, the part of each red blood cell that carries oxygen throughout the body. More women than men are iron-deficient, which is common during pregnancy. You have iron-deficiency anemia when your body does not make enough healthy red blood cells or the blood cells do not work properly. This can… read on >
Poor sleep increases your risk of health problems, such as cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression and obesity, the U.S. National Institute on Aging says. Poor sleep also has been linked to memory problems and increased risk of falls, the agency adds. You should aim for at least seven hours of quality sleep each… read on >
If your child is among the 10 percent of kids with asthma, you want to do everything you can to control it. Start by working with your child’s allergist to identify his or her unique asthma triggers and ways to avoid them. Common asthma triggers include: Secondhand smoke from cigarettes, wood-burning stoves and campfires, Pet… read on >
Most dogs are excited to hear the words “Want to go for a walk?” But one-third of pug dogs have an abnormal gait, and this may be a more serious health problem for this breed than previously thought, researchers say. The finding was based on survey responses from 550 owners of pugs registered with the… read on >
A persistent cough may transmit an illness and keep you up at night, but there are things you can do to help tame your discomfort, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says. A cough may be triggered by conditions including asthma, allergy, the common cold, a lung infection and sinusitis with postnasal drip. The agency… read on >
Sinusitis occurs when the lining of the hollow passages in your cheeks, forehead or below your eyes become inflamed. When swelling persists for more than two weeks, it may signal a sinus infection. The American Rhinologic Association mentions these typical symptoms of sinusitis: Nasal obstruction or congestion. Thick and discolored drainage. Decreased senses of smell… read on >
Your pet rat could make you very sick by transmitting a virus that’s newly emerged in North America, U.S. health officials warn. Seoul virus is a rat-borne hantavirus that typically causes symptoms that resemble the flu — fever, headache, muscle pain. In rare cases infection can lead to hospitalization with hemorrhagic fever and kidney failure.… read on >
Fruits and veggies are great ways to get important nutrients, try new tastes, and add low-calorie sides to your meals. When fresh isn’t available or affordable, frozen is a healthy option. Look for fresh-frozen fruits and vegetables that have been properly stored, the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends. Packages should feel firm. They shouldn’t be… read on >
You should alert authorities if you suspect a child is being hurt or is in danger, a child abuse expert says. The issue is in the spotlight with the recent arrest of David and Louise Turpin, the California couple accused of abusing their 13 children for years. Members of the public can report concerns anonymously,… read on >
