Gum disease may interfere with high blood pressure control, a new study suggests. Researchers reviewed medical and dental records of more than 3,600 people diagnosed with high blood pressure. Compared to people with good oral health, those with gum disease were less likely to respond to high blood pressure medications and 20 percent less likely… read on >
In some bad news for chocolate Labrador Retriever lovers everywhere, new research shows that they have shorter life spans than their black and yellow cousins. Not only that, but they also have higher rates of skin disease and ear infections. For the study, researchers analyzed data from more than 33,000 Labradors in the United Kingdom.… read on >
With the national shortage of primary care doctors and — in certain areas — specialists, and with a quarter of the population living in rural areas without easy access to care, telehealth has stepped in to help fill the gap. In fact, millions of Americans now use it every year. Telehealth involves virtual office visits.… read on >
Fleas thrive in hot and humid temperatures. So depending on where you live, fleas can be a year-round problem or a seasonal worry. Adult fleas are no bigger than a sesame seed, making them difficult to spot. And they can easily jump from one pet to another, or even to a person. The American Veterinary… read on >
Jack-o’-lanterns can be scary, but they shouldn’t be dangerous. Last year, pumpkin carving accounted for nearly 3,200 of the 16,706 Halloween-related injuries treated in U.S. emergency departments, doctors’ offices and clinics, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. “Pumpkin carving is a fun activity, but it can result in serious cuts on the hand and… read on >
Teens with allergies and asthma can enjoy Halloween as long as they take precautions, an allergist says. “There’s no reason a teen with allergies should have to miss anything,” said Dr. Bradley Chipps, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. Teens usually know the drill when it comes to handling their food… read on >
There’s growing evidence that the herpes virus responsible for cold sores also may cause Alzheimer’s disease, a new research paper contends. It’s been long known that herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1) can been found in the brains of elderly people with Alzheimer’s disease, and research has shown that herpes increases Alzheimer’s risk in people genetically… read on >
Age-related increases in estrogen may be the reason why inguinal hernias are common among older men, new research with rodents suggests. Inguinal hernias occur when soft tissue — often part of the intestines — protrudes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the groin. These hernias are the most common reason men undergo… read on >
Many dogs perk up at certain words, like “treat” or “squirrel.” But does Buddy really understand what you’re saying, or is he simply reacting to the excitement in your voice? Researchers at Emory University in Atlanta might have some answers. In a study of 12 dogs, the investigators say they’ve dug up some new details… read on >
Lisa Hanson was first diagnosed with the leg swelling and fluid retention of lymphedema when she was just 17. Now in her 40s, she reconciled herself to a lifetime of long pants, compression hose and a nightly, hours-long bout with an electric pump to keep the swelling down. She said her lymphedema made her feel… read on >
