Cardiac arrest outside of a hospital setting is a leading cause of disease-related health loss in the United States, a new study says. But bystander use of CPR and automated external defibrillators reduces the risk of death and disability. “Cardiac arrest is unique because survival is dependent on the timely response of bystanders, medical dispatch,… read on >
You know that too much salt contributes to high blood pressure, but you might not realize how easily eating out could put you and your kids at risk. Many entrees at leading restaurants and fast food places contain almost a full day’s allotment of salt, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.… read on >
A good night’s sleep is important for physical and mental health. Long-lasting sleep problems can increase your risk of anxiety or depression, the U.S. National Institutes of Health says. The NIH suggests these ways to manage insomnia: Talk to your doctor. Seek cognitive behavioral therapy or relaxation therapy. Set good bedtime habits. Consider sleep medicine.… read on >
Many parents who smoke try to shield their kids from their unhealthy habit — but those who vape may not take the same precautions, a new study suggests. The study surveyed over 700 parents who smoked cigarettes, used e-cigarettes or both. The researchers found that most — regardless of their product of choice — had… read on >
Smoking during pregnancy is never a good idea, but new research shows it might double the risk of a baby dying from sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). “Any maternal smoking during pregnancy — even just one cigarette a day — doubles the risk of sudden unexpected infant death [SUID, another term for unexplained infant deaths],”… read on >
More Americans than ever are trying to reshape their bodies with breast and butt implants, liposuction and “thigh lifts,” a new report shows. Almost 18 million cosmetic procedures were performed in the United States in 2018, nearly a quarter-million more than in 2017, according to newly released data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons… read on >
Kids with poorly controlled asthma struggle in school, especially those who are ethnic minorities, a new study reports. Researchers evaluated asthma and allergy status, lung function and school performance of 216 black, Hispanic (Latino) and white children in a U.S. city. Those with a greater number of daily asthma symptoms had more absences, less school… read on >
A concussion is a brain injury that results from an impact to the head. While it usually isn’t life-threatening, a concussion can cause short-term and long-term problems. Parents and caregivers of concussed children should take an active role in their recovery, the New York State Department of Health says. The agency suggests: Make sure the… read on >
A sprained thumb occurs when ligaments stretch beyond their limits. The most common cause of a sprained thumb is falling onto an outstretched hand, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says. Depending on the sprain’s severity, you may have bruising, tenderness and swelling around the base of your thumb. Difficulty grasping things also is common.… read on >
High blood pressure is one of the most common medical conditions in the United States and one of the most treatable, an expert says. High blood pressure affects a third of adults ages 40-59 and nearly two-thirds of those 60 and older. “It’s something we check at almost every medical appointment, no matter what,” said… read on >
