Chapped lips often occur throughout winter, but there are things you can do to prevent them, the Mayo Clinic says. Here are the clinic’s suggestions: Before you go outside in cold weather, apply a lubricating lip cream or balm. Then cover your lips with a scarf. Reapply the balm as needed. Do not lick your… read on >
While others are decking the halls, many people find the holidays trigger anxiety and depression. Stress can arise from financial strain, dealing with difficult relatives or trying to create the perfect holiday, said Michelle Martel, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Kentucky. Also, the holidays can bring up sad memories for people… read on >
Most sore throats among infants, toddlers and preschoolers are caused by viral infections, the American Academy of Pediatrics says. No antibiotic should be given to treat this type of sore throat, since antibiotics only treat bacterial infections, not those that are triggered by viruses. One type of sore throat this is caused by bacteria is… read on >
Since there are so many blood vessels in the nose and they are so close to the surface, they are relatively easy to injure and trigger a nosebleed, the American Academy of Pediatrics says. Nosebleeds are most often caused by dryness in the air and nose picking. Colds, injuries, allergies and cocaine use can also… read on >
The joy of giving really does last longer than the joy of receiving, researchers report. Experiments with hundreds of participants found their happiness did not decrease, or decreased much slower, if they repeatedly gave small amounts of money to others instead of repeatedly receiving money. The findings suggest that “repeated giving, even in identical ways… read on >
Husband or wife, mom or dad, the demands on your time can be overwhelming. But even if there’s no end to your to-do list, securing some time for yourself is a must. While scheduling a mani-pedi or catching a ball game with friends is great, simply closing your office or bedroom door for 30 minutes… read on >
Proper oral hygiene allows people to enjoy food and prevent tooth loss and decay. It’s no less important if you’re caring for someone else. You may even be required to brush the teeth for that person. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research suggests these steps if the patient can’t brush his or her… read on >
Pelvic floor muscle exercises, also called Kegel exercises, are a great way to improve and maintain bladder control, the National Association for Continence says. The exercises help strengthen the pelvic floor and may improve bladder leakage. The association offers these Kegel suggestions: Identify the muscles by trying to stop urination flow mid-stream. Build up to… read on >
Dry, itchy eyes are a common problem in the winter and low humidity is a major reason, one ophthalmologist says. “On average, the humidity drops in the winter with the colder weather,” said Marissa Locy, an instructor in the department of ophthalmology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. “In addition, most people turn on… read on >
Taking care of your health is one of the best gifts you can give yourself this holiday season, a medical expert suggests. “This festive time of year can be a lot of fun, but may also hurt our mental and physical health,” said Dr. Joseph Cooke, chairman of the department of medicine at NewYork-Presbyterian Queens… read on >
