The danger that air pollution poses to the hearts and lungs of adults is well-documented, but new research suggests that newborns are also at risk. Infants of mothers who were exposed to high levels of air pollution in the week before giving birth were more likely to end up in the newborn intensive care unit… read on >
A phobia is an anxiety disorder that produces a strong, irrational fear of something that poses little danger, says the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Phobias can range from a fear of highway driving to a fear of blood. When people are anxious and extremely self-conscious in social situations, they may have a… read on >
Lots of kids are picky eaters. But when eating habits in young children are extreme, it could be a sign of autism, researchers say. A new study finds atypical eating behaviors — such as hypersensitivity to food textures or pocketing food without swallowing — in 70% of kids with autism. That’s 15 times the rate… read on >
Plastic surgery is no longer the sole domain of women, and men now have even more incentive to try a little nip-and-tuck on their faces: New research suggests they look more attractive and trustworthy to others. The study included 24 men, average age 49 years, who had one or more of the following procedures: upper… read on >
The sugar substitute xylitol may help you lose weight, but it can be deadly for your dog, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns. Xylitol is present in many human foods and other products, and the FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine has received a number of reports over the past several years of dogs being… read on >
Sunglasses need to be more than just fashion accessories, an eye expert advises. “Think of sunglasses as sunscreen for your eyes,” said Dr. Dianna Seldomridge, clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “Your eyes need protection from the sun’s damaging ultraviolet rays, just like your skin,” she explained. “Make sure your eyes are protected… read on >
Diabetes brings with it a variety of long-term complications, but at least one of those — heart failure — is a bigger threat to women than men, new research suggests. The risk difference was even more pronounced for women with type 1 diabetes. “Our global review of 12 million people shows that having diabetes increases… read on >
If you struggle with anxiety, you might want to skip that second cup of coffee, new research suggests. For some people, caffeine may help with concentration and provide an energy boost, but it can cause problems for those with general anxiety disorder, said Dr. Julie Radico, a clinical psychologist with Penn State Health. “Caffeine is… read on >
Music may be as powerful as drugs in calming patients before they undergo surgery, new research suggests. It worked just as well as a tranquilizer before patients received a peripheral nerve block prior to their procedure, the researchers said. Peripheral nerve block numbs a specific area of the body where surgery is being done. Many… read on >
A portable hand sanitizer is convenient and can play an important role in preventing the spread of germs. But for a hand sanitizer to be effective, it must be used correctly, says Rush University Medical Center. The school encourages you to: Read the product label to ensure you are using the right amount. Rub it… read on >
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