A healthy democracy means better health for its citizens, a new study claims. Researchers analyzed political, economic and population health data from 170 countries over 46 years — 1970 to 2016. They concluded that as levels of democracy increased, governments spent more on health, irrespective of their country’s economic situation. “The results of this study… read on >
The switch to Daylight Saving Time can increase the risk of driver fatigue and crashes, but there are a number of ways to reduce the danger, an expert says. “Any time change can exacerbate drowsiness because your internal clock has not adjusted to the time change. This can lead to disruptions in sleep until your… read on >
Frostbite is a serious injury caused by extreme cold, which results in skin discoloration and loss of feeling. The nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes are most often affected. To avoid permanent damage, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urges the public to seek immediate medical care. Until immediate medical care is… read on >
Headed out on vacation? Beware of heart attack: It’s the leading cause of natural death among travelers. If you have heart attack symptoms on the road, getting immediate medical care can improve your odds of long-term survival, according to a study presented Saturday at a meeting of the European Society of Cardiology, in Malaga, Spain.… read on >
For some, strenuous winter activities can be hard on the heart. Simply walking through or shoveling snow can be especially dangerous for those with cardiovascular disease, the American Heart Association says. To make snowy days safer, the AHA suggests: Take breaks. Learn the heart attack warning signs. Avoid alcohol before and immediately after shoveling. Dress… read on >
Winter can be hard for those watching their weight, the U.S. National Institutes of Health says. But you don’t have to wait until it warms up to burn those calories. Losing winter weight can start with equipment-free, in-home exercises: Squats. Push-ups. Planks. Wall sits. Lunges. Jumping jacks. Mountain climbers. Working out for 30 minutes each… read on >
Everyone is susceptible to dry skin during winter. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and drier, but harsh winters can irritate anyone’s skin, the American Academy of Dermatology says. To help dry skin in the cold weather, you can: Use an oil-based moisturizer. Oil creates a protective layer on the skin. Wear sunscreen. The… read on >
As days become shorter and the weather becomes colder, it is not uncommon to have depression-like symptoms. For those with the winter blues, the American Psychological Association offers ways to manage symptoms: Immerse yourself in daylight by going for a walk, or sitting by a window. Eat healthy, low sugar meals. Spend time with friends… read on >
Dry, cold air can trigger asthma attacks, the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America says. Breathing in the winter air can cause airways to restrict, making it difficult to breathe. The foundation offers suggestions to reduce asthma attacks during winter: Cover your mouth with a scarf. Exercise indoors, not outdoors. Always carry your quick-relief inhaler… read on >
Don’t forget to think of your eyes while you’re traveling, the American Academy of Ophthalmology says. Here are the academy’s suggestions while you’re on the road, either for business or pleasure: Bring an extra pair of glasses and contact lenses. If you have an emergency, do not put off seeing an eye specialist until you… read on >
