Mammogram? Check. Pap test? Check. Blood pressure? Check. Hearing and vision? Check. Screenings are an important part of maintaining women’s health. They can detect disease when it’s most treatable and prevent serious problems, according to Dr. Lili Lustig. She is a family medicine specialist at University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center in Ohio. To get the…  read on >

Cholesterol-lowering statins are already known to help cut heart risks for seniors and the middle-aged. Now, research confirms the meds can also help people aged 75 and older. “Statin therapy has been shown to prevent cardiovascular disease in a wide range of people, but there has been uncertainty about its efficacy and safety among older…  read on >

Chips, dips, wings and other fatty and salty things — Super Bowl parties can be a challenge for people with diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol, an expert warns. “For people with diabetes, the goal is to keep the carbohydrates down — and encourage more of the protein-rich foods — to enhance satiety,” said…  read on >

A newborn’s vision isn’t as developed as an older child’s, although significant progress is made during the initial months of life, the American Optometric Association says. Although rare at this early age, signs of vision problems among newborns and young infants include: Excessive tearing – this may indicate blocked tear ducts Red or encrusted eye…  read on >

Bloating is often described as the feeling that there is an inflated balloon in the abdomen, the International Foundation for Gastrointestinal Disorders says. The foundation mentions these common triggers for bloating: Too much gas in the intestine. Abnormally high amounts of bacteria in the small intestine. Imbalance of microorganisms that usually live in the bowel,…  read on >

Using medical scribes in emergency departments is a smart way to increase the number of patients seen by doctors and reduce the time patients spend there, a new study indicates. Medical scribes do administrative tasks, such as documenting visits while a doctor evaluates the patient, printing out paperwork and arranging tests and appointments. While most…  read on >

Minus 29 Fahrenheit in Fargo, minus 28 in Minneapolis, minus 13 in Des Moines. With potential record-setting low temperatures ahead for much of the nation, one expert warns that frostbite can quickly strike exposed skin. “With wind chills approaching the single digits and below zero, it is possible to develop ‘frostnip’ with progression to frostbite…  read on >

When it comes to allergies, allergic rhinitis with its congested, itchy nose gets a lot of attention. But for some, allergic conjunctivitis with itchy, watery eyes is the greater nuisance. You might even have both reactions. Allergic conjunctivitis is inflammation of the conjunctiva — the layer of tissue lining the eyelids and covering the whites…  read on >

Guarding against injury means increasing both flexibility and strength. Target the muscles that support your ankles to protect your joints by strength-training two or three times a week on alternating days and always after you’ve warmed up. Start by using a resistance band to work calf muscles. Sit on the floor, with legs straight. Wrap…  read on >

Cold, dry winter weather can wreak havoc on your hands, triggering rashes, dry patches and irritation. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests how to prevent a rash on your hands: Wear task-appropriate gloves to protect your hands from harsh chemicals, such as dyes and detergents. Wear insulated gloves or mittens in cold weather. Wash your…  read on >