The risks of using voice-based technology in your car may be greater than you think. Many consider this technology safer than using their hands to operate devices while driving, but it’s not risk-free, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety warns. Mental distractions can last as long as 27 seconds after drivers use voice-assisted technology to… read on >
Eating habits and physical activity have a greater impact on weight-loss surgery’s long-term success than measures like counting calories, a new study finds. Researchers also found that evaluation of patients’ mental health and eating habits before weight-loss (bariatric) surgery did not help predict who would be successful in keeping weight off years afterwards. “Bariatric surgery… read on >
With so many heartburn medications available over the counter, it might be surprising to learn that heartburn itself isn’t a health condition, but rather a symptom of something else. First, be sure to distinguish it from indigestion, which is primarily an uncomfortable fullness after eating. With heartburn, there’s a burning sensation in your chest or… read on >
WEDNESDAY, April 3, 2019 (American Heart Association News) — Rolling Stones fans were concerned by the news Mick Jagger needs a new heart valve. But they’ll be happy to know that these days most patients in his situation can get what they need — and often without intensive surgery. While Jagger has not discussed his… read on >
For many Americans, the cost of lifesaving insulin is simply too high, leading as many as one in four to ration the drug, experts testifying before the House Committee on Energy and Commerce said this week. The meeting focused primarily on defining the problem and exploring potential solutions, such as lowering the list prices of… read on >
Richard McIntosh hadn’t had any pets since his childhood farm dogs, but then he started a relationship with a competitive dog trainer and found his life filled with Golden Retrievers. Now McIntosh, 59, of Cornelius, Ore., can’t imagine growing old without a dog or two by his side. “There was a little something missing from… read on >
To prevent allergic reactions — from latex to pollen — having an allergy management plan is essential, says the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. The AAFA asks people to: Avoid contact with allergens. Take medicines as prescribed. Keep epinephrine with you if you are at risk for anaphylaxis. Keep a diary to track what… read on >
Under-the-tongue allergy pills have quickly caught on as a way to treat hay fever and dust mite allergies, a new study finds. Allergy shots have been available for more than 100 years, while sublingual, or under-the-tongue, allergy pills were only approved for use in the United States in 2014. But of 268 U.S. allergists surveyed… read on >
As electronic cigarettes took off, some worried they would lead teens back to traditional cigarettes. But new research suggests that’s not the case. Vaping has done little to slow or reverse a two-decade decline in the popularity of regular cigarettes among youth, a British study suggests. “Given the important contribution to public health which has… read on >
Aspirin can prevent heart attacks and strokes by lowering the clotting action of the blood’s platelets. However, preventing blood from clotting can also cause stomach or brain bleeding, kidney failure and other kinds of strokes, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration says. The decision to start daily aspirin therapy is safest when made in consultation… read on >
