The numbers are alarming. According to U.S. health officials, more than 200,000 children aged 14 or under are treated each year in emergency departments for playground-related injuries, about 10 percent of which involve “TBIs” — or traumatic brain injuries. Modern playground designs help reduce the risk of injury from falls, but they’re not implemented in… read on >
Between the fresh air and the interesting scenery, running outdoors can be invigorating. But there are safety precautions to take when you leave a protected indoor environment. The Road Runners Club of America has a wealth of advice. For starters, take some precautions before you leave home. First, tell loved ones where you’ll be running.… read on >
Sleep is a complex biological process that helps you process new information, stay healthy and feel rested, the U.S. National Library of Medicine says. Not getting enough sleep can trigger illness, poor performance in daily activities, memory loss and other health concerns, the agency adds. Here are suggestions for getting enough quality sleep: Go to… read on >
Medical science has made tremendous advances in “personalized medicine” — drugs that fight cancer and other diseases by boosting the immune system or targeting specific genetic traits. Former U.S. President Jimmy Carter benefited from one of these drugs, Keytruda (pembrolizumab), which successfully beat back his brain cancer by ramping up his immune system. But the… read on >
Heart patients taking part in cardiac rehabilitation could receive a spicy side effect from the program — a boost in their sex life. Attending cardiac rehab is associated with improved sexual function and more frequent sex, according to a new evidence review. The program likely helps by increasing the patient’s physical fitness, said lead researcher… read on >
For many breast cancer patients, removal of lymph nodes in the armpit area is a common procedure, due to worries that the tumor has spread to these tissues. But the operation can also bring the difficult long-term side effect of lymphedema, a painful arm swelling. Now, new Dutch research suggests that for early stage breast… read on >
Different speech therapists have differing approaches for stuttering, so it’s important to evaluate your needs before choosing a therapist, the Stuttering Foundation says. Before starting treatment, the Foundation suggests asking therapist candidates these questions: How comfortable are you with treating stuttering? How many teens and adults who stutter have you worked with? What do you… read on >
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Symptoms of a concussion tend to appear soon after an injury occurs, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. If you or a loved one is playing a team sport and suspect a concussion, the… read on >
A new test for chlamydia can provide results within 30 minutes, potentially speeding up the start of treatment, researchers say. The rapid test for the sexually transmitted disease (STD) means patients can receive treatment immediately, instead of having to wait for a follow-up appointment. This could help reduce the spread of the disease, according to… read on >
Living in a neighborhood with lots of greenery just might protect your ticker. “Our study shows that living in a neighborhood dense with trees, bushes and other green vegetation may be good for the health of your heart and blood vessels,” said study author Aruni Bhatnagar, director of the University of Louisville’s Diabetes and Obesity… read on >
