Too few teens and young adults with an opioid addiction are tested for hepatitis C, even though they’re at high risk for the liver infection, researchers say. In 2016, hepatitis C killed more than 18,000 Americans, making it the most common cause of death from a reportable infectious disease, according to the U.S. Centers for…  read on >

In 2016, almost 174 Americans died each day due to drug overdoses — and roughly two-thirds of those deaths were caused by opioid drugs. The statistics are startling and make the problem seem hopeless. But is it? Beating drug addiction — whether it’s opioids (such as OxyContin), methamphetamine or something else — is definitely a…  read on >

If your child has seasonal allergies, you may be overwhelmed by the process of deciding on a treatment plan. The American Academy of Pediatrics says you should start with your child’s pediatrician. The doctor may refer you to a pediatric allergy specialist, or suggest a treatment plan during an office visit. The academy offers these…  read on >

Tough pregnancies might translate into tough times during menopause, new research suggests. Women who developed complications during pregnancy — including dangerously high blood pressure (“preeclampsia”) and gestational diabetes — were more likely to experience more hot flashes during menopause, the researchers found. “This study further underscores the importance of pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes…  read on >

TUESDAY, Oct. 2, 2018The number of Americans with diabetes who wind up in hospitals with serious infections, or who develop them while in the hospital, is on the rise. Between 2010 and 2015, the number of diabetics hospitalized for infections rose 52 percent (from 16 per 1,000 people to 24 per 1,000), according to researchers…  read on >

A Cesarean section is major surgery, and it’s normal to be tired and have pain and discomfort after the procedure, the Mayo Clinic says. Mayo offers this advice about recovery after a C-section: Rest as often as you can. Avoid lifting anything heavier than your newborn. Take pain medication as needed and use a heating…  read on >

If your child has night terrors, it may help to put your child on a stricter sleep schedule, the American Academy of Pediatrics says. Night terrors are often triggered on by inadequate sleep. Stress can also contribute to the frequency of waking at night, the group says. It suggests how to help your child: Assure…  read on >

Promises of healthier kids’ meals have drawn increasing numbers of families back to fast food restaurants, but most kids are still being served unhealthy options, a new survey finds. Nine out of 10 parents had purchased lunch or dinner for their child in the past week at one of the big four fast food chains…  read on >

If you’re worried that too much “screen time” could be sapping your child’s intelligence, new research suggests you might be right. Kids with the sharpest intellects spent less than two hours a day on their cellphones, tablets and computers, coupled with 9 to 11 hours of sleep and at least an hour of physical activity,…  read on >

The closeness of college dorms and cafeterias means students are prone to getting sick or acquiring infections. Colleges typically have a medical facility on campus that students can go to if they feel sick, but a more serious illness may require a visit to the emergency room. The American Academy of Pediatrics says college students…  read on >