Facebook, Twitter, Instagram — the list of popular social media outlets is long and always expanding. But could staying connected through them lead to depression? That’s the question posed by researchers from the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. Nearly 1,800 Americans, aged 19 to 32, answered questionnaires about their activity on 11 popular social… read on >
All Lifestyle:
Health Tip: Go Green For the Holidays
You can make green choices in everyday life, including during the holiday season, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. Simple activities such as recycling, reusing, walking, biking and conserving water are easy ways to make green decisions. Between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day, Americans throw out 25 percent more trash than other… read on >
Take It Outside! The Benefits of Exercising Outdoors
If you’ve ever come home from a brisk walk feeling reinvigorated, you’re not alone. Research shows that this is just one of many benefits of exercising outdoors. Working out in a natural environment can also be more physically challenging, making your body work harder and bringing greater fitness results. This happens when, for instance, you’re… read on >
Health Tip: Recognizing a Panic Attack
A panic attack is the sudden onset of intense fear or discomfort that reaches a peak within minutes, the Anxiety and Depression Association of America says. The association says since symptoms of a panic attack are so intense, they may mimic those of heart disease, thyroid problems, breathing disorders and other illnesses. The ADAA says… read on >
Do Paramedics Shortchange Women With Heart Trouble?
Women who call 911 for a possible heart attack may get different treatment from paramedics than men do, a new U.S. study suggests. Researchers found that ambulance crews were less likely to give recommended treatments, such as aspirin, to women with chest pain. Paramedics were also less likely to turn on their sirens while transporting… read on >
Docs Should Screen for Depression During, After Pregnancy
Doctors should screen women for depression during and after pregnancy, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says in an updated policy statement. Undiagnosed and untreated depression among pregnant women and new mothers can put a baby’s health at risk, and is one of the most common and costly pregnancy-related complications in the United States, according… read on >
Father-Son Talks About Condoms Pay Health Dividends
Here’s some straight talk about the value of “the talk.” Fathers who talk with their teenage sons about condom use can help prevent sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies, researchers say. Condoms are the only contraceptive method that can prevent pregnancy and the spread of sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Yet, recent U.S. government… read on >
Practice Patience for a Happier, Healthier You
You’ve no doubt heard the expression “patience is a virtue.” Now researchers are learning that this virtue can be good for your health and well-being. Any given day can be filled with a series of frustrations that cause you to lose your patience, like waiting for your assistant to finish a report you need or… read on >
Don’t Let Holiday Season Stress Worsen Your Allergies, Asthma
Reducing stress could cut your risk of allergy and asthma symptoms during the holidays. “Studies show stress can cause a number of negative health effects, including causing more symptoms for allergy and asthma sufferers,” said Dr. Todd Mahr, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology. “It makes sense that if you want… read on >
Healthy Sleep Habits for Kids Pay Off
Good sleep routines can help children get the rest they need, researchers say. For the new report, investigators reviewed 44 studies from 16 countries in North America, Europe and Asia. The studies included a total nearly 300,000 children, aged 4 months to 18 years. “Good sleep hygiene gives children the best chances of getting adequate,… read on >