New mothers who gave birth early in the pandemic filled far more opioid prescriptions than American women did previously, raising concerns about the potential for narcotic misuse. About 38% of more than 460,000 women who gave birth from July 2018 through December 2020 were prescribed opioids for postpartum pain management, according to the University of…  read on >  read on >

We know that stress can take a toll on the body, but many may not realize it can produce a rash. “Stress can increase the level of the hormone cortisol, increasing inflammation in your body, which can lead to hives, acne, eczema, and hair loss, among other symptoms,” dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Farhat said in a…  read on >  read on >

The stress of caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease can take a toll on loved ones. It’s important for caregivers’ own health and well-being to reduce that stress, the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America says. “Finding ways to manage and reduce stress is of paramount importance for every Alzheimer’s caregiver — untreated stress over a prolonged…  read on >  read on >

Cafeteria workers. Receptionists. Pharmacists. Janitors. Administrators. Physical therapists. Much has been made of burnout among doctors and nurses, but a new survey has found high rates of work fatigue in nearly every type of job associated with health care. Physicians, nurses, clinical staff and non-clinical support workers in health care all are experiencing substantial levels…  read on >  read on >

Over the last decade, more and more Americans with early-stage prostate cancer have put off radiation and surgery, the standard treatment options, new research indicates. Instead, many U.S. men with low- or intermediate-risk prostate cancer have embraced “active surveillance,” in which their disease is carefully monitored for any sign of progression that might eventually require…  read on >  read on >