(HealthDay News) – For the second time this month, massive plumes of smoke from hundreds of out-of-control Canadian wildfires are polluting much of America’s air. Among the major U.S. cities now experiencing poor air quality are St. Louis, Milwaukee, Cincinnati and Chicago, while entire states have also issued air quality alerts, according to the National… read on > read on >
More than 7,500 people were killed last year after being struck by vehicles while walking along or across U.S. roadways — the most pedestrian deaths in more than four decades, according to a new report. This sobering trend was not surprising to experts who track the numbers. But they were dismayed by the consistent increase… read on > read on >
Wild and feral cats appear to release more toxoplasmosis parasites in places densely populated with people, new research suggests. These cats also “shed” more when the temperature is warmer, a significant finding given climate change, according to the report published online June 21 in PLOS ONE. Policymakers could help protect humans from this illness by… read on > read on >
Kidney stones are something most folks want to avoid at all costs, but few may know that the chances of developing this excruciating condition rise during the hot months of summer. Luckily, it is possible to take steps to prevent stones from forming, primarily by increasing water intake and making small changes to your diet.… read on > read on >
Heat illness can be deadly, so it’s essential to recognize the warning signs and know what to do as the summer season gets into gear. “Heat illness tends to happen when the body is unable to regulate its temperature due to overexertion or extended periods of time in high temperatures,” said Dr. Maria Carmenza Mejia,… read on > read on >
Just like their humans, dogs get cranky when temperatures and air pollution levels surge. Heat and air pollution have previously been linked to human aggression. Now, researchers say it also appears that there are more dog bites on hot, polluted days. More research is needed to confirm these findings, according to study author Tanujit Dey,… read on > read on >
A bout of traveler’s diarrhea can really put a damper on your vacation. Here, experts break down what traveler’s diarrhea is, including its causes, symptoms and treatment, so you can get back to enjoying your trip as quickly as possible. What is traveler’s diarrhea? Put simply, traveler’s diarrhea is frequent, loose, watery stools that occur… read on > read on >
Extreme heat can be dangerous, but you can stay cool and safe this summer if you take the right precautions. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) offers some tips for doing so. “No matter your age, it is critical to be able to recognize the signs of heat-related illness,” said Dr. Jocelyn Ross Wittstein,… read on > read on >
Consider yourself a lifesaver if you opt for an electric vehicle next time you buy or lease a new car. Electric cars can save millions of lives and reduce health care costs by improving air quality so people can breathe better and freer, according to a new report by the American Lung Association. Zero-emission electric… read on > read on >
Ticks are extremely resilient even when temperatures vary wildly, according to scientists who are working to better understand the spread of Lyme disease. In their new study, black-legged ticks, notorious for carrying pathogens, were very good at surviving both extreme cold and high heat, the scientists found. This was true both for nymph and adult… read on > read on >
