HealthDay News) — Drought conditions occur when it doesn’t rain for an extended period. The lowered water supply can trigger wildfires and dust storms, which increase the amounts of small particles that float in the air. This can irritate the bronchial passages and lungs, worsening existing respiratory problems and raising the risk of respiratory infections…  read on >

Spending a semester in another country can be an incredible experience, but it doesn’t come without risk of travel-related illness. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these tips to prepare for a semester abroad: Learn about health concerns in your host country. At least a month before you leave, make an appointment…  read on >

(HealthDay News) –In 2016, nearly 5,000 motorcycle users died in crashes, and about 88,000 were hurt, the National Safety Council says. The council offers these suggestions for safer riding: Always wear a full-coverage helmet. Choose a bike that fits you. Invest in antilock brakes. New riders should take a motorcycle safety course, and experienced riders…  read on >

Summer typically is a whirlwind of long days, summer barbeques, pool parties and camping trips. With all of that activity, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, the American Cancer Society says. The society suggests: Get plenty of exercise during the cooler part of the day, such as in the early morning or evening. Drink…  read on >

As much of the United States continues to swelter through 90-plus temperatures and high humidity, one emergency physician is offering advice on keeping safe. First, Dr. Robert Glatter said, it’s important to know that anyone can be a victim of heat stroke, but some people are at particular risk. “Heat stroke develops when the body…  read on >

You know that wearing seat belts and putting kids in appropriate car seats can save lives, but are you doing all you can to make your car a safe environment for little ones? Hundreds of thousands of car seats are recalled for safety defects every year, with more than 6 million recalled in 2014, the…  read on >

High summer temperatures pose a particular risk for the elderly, the National Institute on Aging says. Because of poor circulation and other factors, older people typically are at greater risk of heat-related illnesses, such as heat stroke, heat cramps and heat exhaustion. The agency offers this “to-do” list if you think someone might have a…  read on >

Traveling with someone with a disability may seem daunting, but things are likely to go a lot smoother with some preparation. AARP offers this advice: Contact the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at least 72 hours before departure to explain your loved one’s needs. The number is: 855-787-2227. When you leave, bring all necessary medical letters…  read on >

After a mastectomy, many women prefer to wear a prosthesis, in lieu of reconstructive surgery. The prosthesis often is made of silicone gel or foam, and will be placed inside a bra or directly on a woman’s chest. Sometimes. a prosthesis can pose difficulties when traveling by plane. The Susan G. Komen Foundation suggests: Get…  read on >

Every nine days, a child dies in a hot car in the United States, but a safety expert says such tragedies can easily be prevented. “Three letters can help drivers remember to take proper safety precautions with children when traveling in the car: A, C, T,” said Susan Katz, coordinator of the pediatric injury prevention…  read on >