Good news for kids: Next flu season, you can avoid a painful needle jab and get the nasal vaccine spray instead, according to a leading U.S. pediatricians’ group. In recent flu seasons, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended the shot over the nasal spray — except if a child refused a shot — due to… read on >
All Health and Wellness:
Heart Risks Vary Among Asian-Americans
Not all Asian-Americans are equally susceptible to the deadly damage of heart disease and stroke, new research suggests. The risk of premature death is highest among Asian Indian, Filipino and Vietnamese subgroups, the researchers found. For the study, investigators analyzed U.S. death records from 2003 to 2012 to determine average potential years of life lost… read on >
Be Prepared to Take FAST Action If You Suspect a Stroke
Would you be able to recognize if you or someone close to you were having a stroke? A stroke is a 911 medical emergency and every second counts for survival. To help you recognize the signs of stroke, the National Stroke Association wants you to remember F-A-S-T, or fast. F stands for “face.” Signs of… read on >
Can High-Potency Pot Make You Crazy?
The jittery, delusional potheads of the old movie “Reefer Madness” have prompted eye rolls and chuckles over the years, but a new study argues that the cult classic might contain a kernel of truth. Smoking pot every day could increase your risk of a psychotic break with reality, particularly if you have access to high-potency… read on >
Health Tip: Six Steps to a Healthier Life
What Works Best for Women Struggling With a Leaky Bladder?
For women who need relief from bladder control problems, behavioral therapies are a better bet than medication, a new research review finds. In an analysis of 84 clinical trials, researchers found that overall, women were better off with behavioral approaches to easing urinary incontinence than relying on medication. Study patients were over five times more… read on >
Health Tip: Treating Acne Scars
Treating acne scars starts by consulting a dermatologist. To get the most out of the consultation, the American Academy of Dermatology suggests answering these questions before seeing a doctor: Why do I want to treat my scars? How do I want to look? What can I afford to spend? How much downtime can I afford?… read on >
Docs Back Away From Low-Dose Aspirin for Heart Attack Prevention
Millions of aging Americans worried about heart attacks and strokes have for years popped a low-dose aspirin each day, thinking the blood thinner might lower their risk. But new guidelines issued Sunday by two cardiology groups say that, for most adults, the practice may no longer be warranted. The new heart health guidelines were issued… read on >
Prescription Fish Oil Pill Lowers Heart Attack Risk in Those Already on Statins
Patients who have high triglycerides and take cholesterol-lowering statins to lower their risk for heart attack or stroke can cut that risk by another 30 percent by adding a high-dose omega-3 fatty acid pill, investigators report. The prescription drug, called Vascepa, is not to be confused with over-the-counter dietary omega-3 (often fish oil) supplements. Such… read on >
Exposing Baby to Foods Early May Help Prevent Allergies
New parents worry about a lot of things, but the American Academy of Pediatrics says one thing they can cross off that list is concern about giving high-allergy foods too early in life. In fact, the pediatric group says it’s likely better to introduce foods like peanut butter when kids are around 6 months of… read on >