Lifestyle Trends


  Lifestyle & Trends - Health & Wellness

What you don't know about eyeglasses could affect your vision

What you don't know about eyeglasses could affect your vision For most people, selecting eyeglass frames is the highlight of the eye appointment and the lenses are seen as pieces of plastic or glass that don't involve a lot of buyer choice. But on the contrary, the best eyeglass lenses today are as hi-tech as any smartphone, and the visual difference between adequate lenses and great lenses can be as pronounced as the difference between a standard TV and your new HDTV. Once you've experienced the latter, you'll never want to watch TV the old way again.

Read More

Best options for beating the bugs of cold and flu season

Best options for beating the bugs of cold and flu season Cold and flu season is now in full swing and staying healthy this time of year can be a challenge. For those suffering, identifying the type of illness - cold, flu, sinus infection, etc. - and finding the right over-the-counter medications are key in helping to alleviate symptoms.

Read More

Save money and help the environment by checking on your water quality

Save money and help the environment by checking on your water quality Nearly 90 percent of American homes have hard water - water containing high levels of calcium and magnesium, according to The U.S. Geological Survey. If your shampoo and soap don't lather up like they should, if you see scaling on your pipes and showerheads or if you have nasty brown rings in your sinks and toilets, your water is probably hard. To know exactly how hard, and what to do about it, you should have your water diagnosed by a water quality professional.

Read More

Healthy children's options are now appearing on restaurant menus

Healthy children's options are now appearing on restaurant menus Today's youth might be the first generation of American children to be less healthy than their parents, with childhood obesity more than tripling in the past 30 years. What's encouraging, however, is that this is a time of increased national focus on healthy eating - and it is going to take all stakeholders to make a true and sustained difference. With physical activity initiatives popping up in communities across the country and recently announced new U.S. Department of Agriculture guidelines on school lunches, there are more opportunities for children to thrive.

Read More

Educational programs empower patients with lung diseases

Educational programs empower patients with lung diseases Complications associated with lung diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and cystic fibrosis (CF) account for millions of emergency room visits each year. Many of these complications occur because the diseases are not being properly managed, which many - including several advocacy groups -- believe may be related to a lack of understanding and knowledge on behalf of the patient. For this reason, patient education has become increasingly important in managing lung diseases.

Read More

The best treatment for eczema can depend on the person and severity of the condition

The best treatment for eczema can depend on the person and severity of the condition If you think you might have eczema, the best first step is to see a health care professional. Since the skin condition comes in a variety of forms and can be accompanied by other conditions such as hay fever or asthma, the best treatment will depend on your situation.

Read More

Taking control of your cancer diagnosis

For patients living with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), it is important to work with a CML healthcare team to discuss a treatment plan and to establish clear blood level treatment goals - which are specific to each person - to make sure he or she is achieving the best results. If a patient doesn't meet one of his or her treatment goals, they should discuss their options with their CML health care team and stay positive. There are things that patients and their doctors can do, such as making sure the appropriate medication is being given, which can help one get back on track.

Read More

Registered nurses encouraged to pursue bachelor's degrees

Registered nurses encouraged to pursue bachelor's degrees As many industries scaled back and cut resources in the last year, health care continued to grow, adding an average of 26,000 jobs per month, according to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics. This trend is likely to continue as technological innovations and new regulations prompt additional oversight within the health care setting.

Read More

Safe at home: the importance of using infant gear properly

Safe at home: the importance of using infant gear properly Who's responsible for keeping infants safe from gear-related injury? Is it gear-makers, who must meet stringent manufacturing codes, perform strict mandatory government safety testing, and submit to oversight by safety-focused government agencies? Or are parents responsible? The answer, experts agree, is: both.

Read More

How to get relief from excessive underarm sweat

How to get relief from excessive underarm sweat For most people, sporting a sweat-drenched T-shirt at the gym is no big deal. However, wearing a sweat-stained blouse or shirt at work or in a social setting is an entirely different, and in many cases mortifying, scenario. One in five adults are bothered by sweat and suffer silently, going to great lengths to conceal the unsightly effects. It is an embarrassing condition, impacting both men and women, and often negatively interfering with a person's social and professional life.

Read More

Step into summer with tips for family fun in the sun

Step into summer with tips for family fun in the sun Summer days do not have to be lazy. Children may be used to action-packed schedules in school, but by stepping up their planning, families can enjoy outdoor activities that are engaging and help keep children active. Whether camping or simply exploring the park down the street, it's important to plan ahead for summer fun, especially when it comes to sun protection.

Read More

Early warm temps bring early allergy symptoms

Early warm temps bring early allergy symptoms Spring-like temperatures arrived early this year, and with them came early allergy symptoms for many: itchy throats and eyes, stuffy noses, sneezing, teary eyes and more. These developments come on the heels of the fourth warmest winter since record keeping began, according to the U.S. National Climatic Data Center.

Read More

How to protect your heart and increase your energy levels

How to protect your heart and increase your energy levels One of the secrets to enjoying life while aging is to take care of your heart. Heart health is important for Americans to discuss with their doctors, as heart disease is the No. 1 killer of both men and women in the United States. In addition to following a good diet and exercise program, taking an antioxidant supplement like coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is also a good practice to help maintain a healthy heart.

Read More

Smart snacking that can boost your fitness routine

Smart snacking that can boost your fitness routine Eating right and exercising are the two most important elements of a healthy lifestyle. We hear it time and again that these simple principles hold more power than the latest fad diet, and for those who heed the advice, the proof is in the results. However, it's not always easy to figure out what's really good for you in the process of building - or maintaining - a healthy body.

Read More

Understanding and spreading knowledge about the risks of type 2 diabetes

Understanding and spreading knowledge about the risks of type 2 diabetes Knowing your risk for developing type 2 diabetes is the first step in preventing or delaying the disease.

Read More

Get biking to help stop diabetes

Get biking to help stop diabetes Biking is a very popular form of exercise and transportation for Americans. Cities continuously update and add trails, and families look for a way to cut back on gas prices, while also spending time together.

Read More

Top tasty food trends that can benefit your family's health

Top tasty food trends that can benefit your family's health A visit to your local grocer provides thousands of food options, and it's likely you've recently noticed an increase in the number of healthier choices, including organic offerings and expanded produce selections. But what are the next big things when it comes to healthy food? Here are some healthy food trends to look for the next time you're at your local grocery store.

Read More

Your body naturally produces HGH - what are the benefits?

Your body naturally produces HGH - what are the benefits? Human growth hormone - HGH for short - might have a negative, or at least unnatural connotation to most. When you hear HGH in the news, it's most often talked about as injections, in many cases used to boost athletic performance. But did you know that HGH is actually a hormone the body produces naturally?

Read More

Keep kids injury free while playing their favorite sports this summer

Keep kids injury free while playing their favorite sports this summer Summer vacation gives children a break from schoolwork, but for many, their participation in sports will continue in warm weather months. Parents, coaches and players need to keep injury prevention in mind to ensure sports stay safe and fun throughout the summer.

Read More

Achieving a slimmer summer body for swimsuit season and beyond

Achieving a slimmer summer body for swimsuit season and beyond Longer days, bright sun and warm weather can serve as a well-needed dose of motivation to get fit for summer. The trick is to sustain that energy through each changing season as you strive to achieve a healthier lifestyle.

Read More

Feeling thirsty? You may want to talk to your doctor about that

Feeling thirsty? You may want to talk to your doctor about that Back pain, headaches and difficulty sleeping are common symptoms many people discuss with their doctors during routine checkups. Yet one symptom many patients overlook is dryness, especially dry mouth. If you think dry mouth isn't serious enough to mention to your doctor, think again.

Read More

Unscrambling the myths behind eggs and cholesterol

Unscrambling the myths behind eggs and cholesterol When it comes to eggs, dietary cholesterol and heart health, what you think you know may be a bit scrambled. Concerns over dietary cholesterol and its impact on heart disease keeps many people from eating eggs, despite their nutritional benefits. However, more than 40 years of research shows healthy adults can enjoy an egg every day without significantly impacting their risk of heart disease.

Read More

Are little urine leaks a big problem? How to talk to your doctor

Are little urine leaks a big problem? How to talk to your doctor Your friend tells you a funny joke, and then it happens. You start pedaling during your spinning class, and it happens again. You hear water running and oops, you know you will also be wet. You might feel frustrated and embarrassed, but you are not alone. In fact, these types of urine leaks are quite common. Up to 50 percent of all women have occasional urine leaks and up to 10 percent have them frequently, according to the MedlinePlus Encyclopedia. Here's what you need to know.

Read More

Flat-screen dangers: The summer safety risk and what parents should know

Flat-screen dangers: The summer safety risk and what parents should know For many families, summer vacation means children will spend more hours at home than they do during the school year. Extra time at home may expose children to unexpected risks from surprising sources - such as an unstable television.

Read More

Summer allergies: Fact or fiction?

Summer allergies: Fact or fiction? Allergens know no boundaries, and allergies don't disappear with May's showers. While bothersome grass pollens are gone by late June, other common triggers arise, making symptoms difficult to escape. But that doesn't mean the more than 60 million Americans who suffer from allergies and asthma can't enjoy barbecues, festivals and other outdoor activities.

Read More

School lunch fuels success for spring sports

School lunch fuels success for spring sports Springtime packs a punch for students. Between tests, papers, school trips, extracurricular performances and jobs, finding the energy for spring's after-school sports is often a challenge. Time and energy are at a premium. Eating well can help ease the crush. What makes a good lunch? Here are some tasty and healthy suggestions.

Read More

The insomnia wakeup call: Sleep deprivation is a serious health risk

The insomnia wakeup call: Sleep deprivation is a serious health risk It's 3:30 a.m. and you've just rolled over in bed for what seems like the 500th time. As you watch the minutes on the clock tick by, all you can think about is how tired you are going to be tomorrow. While the cause of your insomnia may vary night to night, the outcome is still the same: you're not asleep. You're also not alone.

Read More

Seven effective habits to prevent hearing loss

Seven effective habits to prevent hearing loss Hearing loss is common, but the perception that hearing loss is only caused by aging is incorrect. More than 36 million American have hearing loss. Changing lifestyle habits, and treating a variety of health conditions can help to prevent hearing loss.

Read More

Seven signs you may be experiencing hearing loss

Seven signs you may be experiencing hearing loss Have you ever had a family member or coworker suggest you may be experiencing a problem hearing? Sure, sometimes your friends might joke about a missed conversation - especially if you weren't paying attention. But if the comments are happening more frequently, and not in a jovial manner, your friends and family may be trying to tell you something is wrong.

Read More

Spring to it: Cleaning tips for creating a healthy home environment

Spring to it: Cleaning tips for creating a healthy home environment Allergens lurk inside and outside your home, causing more than 40 million Americans with allergies to cough, sneeze and have itchy eyes all year long, especially in springtime. And, for 25 million Americans with asthma it can be even more problematic. You'd assume cleaning your home would help reduce these allergy triggers, but if you're not cleaning the right way, you could actually be making the problem worse.

Read More

What experts say about managing or preventing diabetes

What experts say about managing or preventing diabetes Although genetics, environmental factors and obesity all play a role, the root cause of diabetes is essentially unknown. What experts do know is that certain people are more at risk for diabetes, and personal health goals, regular screenings and guidance from health professionals can help you manage or prevent the disease.

Read More

Lesser-known health care careers are very rewarding

Lesser-known health care careers are very rewarding Have you looked at career possibilities in health care lately? Many positions in the medical arena involve operating room (OR) procedures or patient care. Others require totally different skill sets, such as positions in pharmaceuticals or hospital administration. One unique and rewarding career option involves biomedical equipment technology.

Read More

Conquer childhood obesity with tips for healthy family living

Conquer childhood obesity with tips for healthy family living Today, health professionals encourage parents of even very young children to actively confront the childhood obesity epidemic. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention find that obesity rates for children ages 2 to 5 have more than doubled over the past 30 years, and The White House Task Force on Obesity reports that more than half of obese children became obese by their second birthday.

Read More

Baby boomers - More active than ever with no plans of slowing down

Baby boomers - More active than ever with no plans of slowing down Baby boomers are reshaping everyone's view of aging because they are living healthier, more active lifestyles and have no intention of slowing down. Despite their active lifestyles, many baby boomers and non-boomers alike live with bladder control issues - also known as incontinence.

Read More

Tips to encourage and help boost your child's growing confidence

Tips to encourage and help boost your child's growing confidence Your growing child needs love and attention to help build confidence to continue to try and succeed at new things. From learning how to read, preparing for grade school to being able to ride their first two-wheel bike, it's the positivity from Mom and Dad that keep kids striving for more. Sometimes kids transition with ease to the next stage in development, and other times may experience a few bumps in the road prolonging transition. One of those areas where a child might need an extra boost of confidence is when they are experiencing an issue with wetting the bed at night.

Read More

Ways you can make a difference in the lives of domestic abuse victims

Ways you can make a difference in the lives of domestic abuse victims Everyone deserves to share a loving home with their family, but for many women and children, home is not the safest place to be. The National Coalition Against Domestic Violence reports that one in four women will experience domestic violence, and nearly 1.3 million women are victims of domestic abuse each year. In addition, more than 41 percent of our nation's homeless population is comprised of women and families. It's a difficult topic to discuss, and that makes many people hesitant to have a conversation about it. However, you can take action to help victims of domestic abuse and homelessness, and make a real difference in their lives. Here are a few ideas of how you can help.

Read More

How to prevent accidental medication poisoning in children

How to prevent accidental medication poisoning in children Every day in the United States, about 165 kids - or roughly four busloads of children - are seen in emergency rooms for accidental medication poisonings. Medications are the leading cause of accidental child poisoning deaths today, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Read More

Keeping informed and educated about your health

A diagnosis of cancer can be extremely frightening. Along with the battery of medical tests, patients are often faced with an overwhelming amount of information to absorb, covering everything from disease information, treatment decisions to financial implications. This fear of the "unknown" is often the worst part of any cancer diagnosis. In order to cope, patients often rely heavily on their doctors and support groups to help them translate the enormous amount of medical information into language that makes sense and is most relevant to them and their personal cancer journey.

Read More

Fuel your summer activities with smart foods that keep you going

Fuel your summer activities with smart foods that keep you going As the sun stays in the sky longer and temperatures warm up, being more active is simply second-nature. Getting outdoors gives a new vitality to any exercise routine, whether you're kicking off training for your first 5K or maintaining a program you've enjoyed for years.

Read More

Nip seasonal allergies in the bud

Nip seasonal allergies in the bud When everything comes up roses, so do spring allergies. Forty million Americans suffer from outdoor and indoor allergies in the United States, making it one of the country's most common, yet overlooked health conditions. In fact, allergies are the fifth-leading chronic disease in the U.S. for all ages.

Read More

Four-time gold medalist Janet Evans has the 'heart' for an Olympic Games comeback

Four-time gold medalist Janet Evans has the 'heart' for an Olympic Games comeback A four-time gold medalist embarking on her fourth Olympic Games at age 40 - that's the name of the game for Janet Evans. She is committed to following her heart - and also taking care of it - to make sure it's strong enough to take on competitors half her age. Evans offers tips for better heart health.

Read More

Medical alert systems and other simple steps for keeping senior parents safe

Medical alert systems and other simple steps for keeping senior parents safe Throughout your life, your parents did everything they could to ensure your safety. Now, as part of the sandwich generation, you may find it challenging to know how to help keep your aging parents safe in their own home. Experts agree: Helping prevent falls is one of the most important ways you can protect your senior parents.

Read More

Simple diagnosis, treatment and prescriptions now a click away

Simple diagnosis, treatment and prescriptions now a click away Consumer access to medical information is also easier than ever. Since the first medical websites emerged in the late 1990s, people have flocked to them in skyrocketing numbers. Today, an estimated 80 percent of Americans go online to search for health information. Still, most health sites, while informative, can't diagnose or treat you. A new breed of "online clinics" connects customers directly with experienced practitioners who can treat them safely - and very conveniently - wherever they are.

Read More

Military families and mental health: Understanding the issues and available resources

Military families and mental health: Understanding the issues and available resources Today's service men and women are facing particularly challenging circumstances. Many soldiers have been deployed several times to the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, often serving in prolonged combat operations. Many soldiers, veterans and their families may have trouble recognizing the signs of a mental health condition.

Read More

Gardening tips to avoid injury and discomfort

Gardening tips to avoid injury and discomfort Gardening is very healthy, both physically and mentally. In addition to providing exercise, gardening delivers health benefits in the fresh foods you eat and in the calming presence of flowers in your environment. Here are some tips to get the most out of gardening's health benefits.

Read More

What NASCAR can teach you about making marriage work

What NASCAR can teach you about making marriage work Modern married life can definitely be like a NASCAR race.

Read More

Don't miss a beat in 2012: Get the facts about fats and heart health

Don't miss a beat in 2012: Get the facts about fats and heart health With heart disease the leading cause of death in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it's time to listen to your heart and get the right kinds of fats into your daily diet. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends consuming polyunsaturated fats, specifically omega-3 fatty acids, for heart health. But what are these "good fats" and how do you make them a part of your daily nutrition program?

Read More

Weight loss requires a multifaceted approach

Weight loss requires a multifaceted approach Whenever someone loses a lot of weight, we often want to know, "What's your secret?" But anyone who's been able to shed a lot of pounds will likely tell you that there is no one secret to losing weight.

Read More

Weight loss requires more than just a simple fix

Weight loss requires more than just a simple fix If losing weight was as simple as putting the money down to purchase a treadmill, or taking diet pills every day, the market for these products would disappear, because everyone would be thin. The key to losing weight is developing an exercise and diet plan that you can stick to consistently. If you've committed yourself to an exercise and diet regimen, and want to enhance your fitness program with a weight-loss product - whether it's a piece of equipment or a nutritional supplement - there are still a few questions you should ask yourself.

Read More

Shopping for a better pharmacy? Have you checked your mailbox?

Shopping for a better pharmacy? Have you checked your mailbox? If you take a regular prescription, comparison shopping for the right pharmacy can be important to your health. One option you may be unaware of puts quality medication and lower costs as close to home as your mailbox.

Read More

Fever facts for parents: What you should know when treating your child

Fever facts for parents: What you should know when treating your child With cold and flu season also comes fever season, and across the country, parents will experience anxiety levels that rise in tandem with their children's temperatures. But a child's fever doesn't have to be a scary experience for parents. Here are some things to know about managing a child's fever.

Read More

Food: Where does it come from? Straight answers to consumers' questions

Food: Where does it come from? Straight answers to consumers' questions Is the food we're eating healthy long-term? Is the planet able to sustain the amount of food we're producing? Americans are asking questions and thinking more critically when it comes to the food they eat. They want to know where it comes from, how it's grown and produced, and what effects this process has on our health as well as the health of the planet.

Read More

Lose weight for the wedding, but say 'I do' to a healthy lifestyle

Lose weight for the wedding, but say 'I do' to a healthy lifestyle Every bride wants to look great when the big day comes, but how many brides commit to fitting into her wedding dress on their 10th anniversary? Do you want to look good for a day, or feel good for the rest of your life? While considering vows, include a commitment to live healthfully ever after.

Read More

A parent's guide to foot health for athletic kids

A parent's guide to foot health for athletic kids Olympic athletes won't be the only ones competing hard in summer sports - so will your kids. No matter what their sport or whether they play competitively or just for fun, they will have one important thing in common: They'll need their feet to be pain-free if they're going to play their best and prevent injuries.

Read More

Four tips to help prepare for pregnancy from mom expert Rosie Pope

Four tips to help prepare for pregnancy from mom expert Rosie Pope Once you and your partner have made the big decision to start expanding your family, whether in the next few months or years, thinking about how to prepare can be a little overwhelming. Don't worry! Some simple steps and an optimistic attitude can help pave the way for a healthy pregnancy.

Read More

The buzz on battling flying, stinging summer bugs

The buzz on battling flying, stinging summer bugs Summer picnic season is upon us, and that means it is time to grab the sunglasses, cooler and sunscreen, and head outdoors. But people are not the only ones who want to enjoy the warm weather. Flying, stinging insects like bees and wasps are abuzz, and make their presence known when collecting pollen and nectar as the weather warms.

Read More

Allergies or a cold? Decode your symptoms

Allergies or a cold? Decode your symptoms When the weather warms up, it's hard to tell what is causing your sneezing, coughing and runny nose symptoms. The question is - when you sneeze, are you suffering from allergies, or experiencing the symptoms of a cold or the flu?

Read More

Health care trends: looking for value without sacrificing quality

Health care trends: looking for value without sacrificing quality If there is one thing that the recent health care debate made clear, it is that Americans are unwilling to trade quality for economy when it comes to their health. But with the growing shortage of primary care physicians in the United States and an aging population, one trend born in underserved areas of the country may have the ability to cut costs without sacrificing quality: the use of non-physician professionals, such as physician assistants and nurse practitioners, in primary care facilities.

Read More

Girlfriends banding together to conquer a common health issue

Girlfriends banding together to conquer a common health issue Nearly everything we'll ever need to know about being a girl, we'll learn from other girlfriends who've "been there, done that" before us. Even when things are medical, even when we love our OBGYNs, sometimes we're embarrassed or don't want to waste their time with things not involving making babies. That may explain why more than 7 million women suffer from heavy cycles, but go years without getting the help they need.

Read More

Centenarians can leave a lasting legacy by donating DNA to science

Centenarians can leave a lasting legacy by donating DNA to science Living to 100 years old is a remarkable feat in itself, but now 100 centenarians will have the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy that could radically change medical care for generations to come.

Read More

Disability: What you don't know can hurt you

Disability: What you don't know can hurt you The average adult rushes off each weekday morning to work or school, focused on the busy day ahead. No one ever thinks that one day, suddenly, his or her life will be changed forever by a sudden, unexpected disability.

Read More

The rewards of a career as an occupational therapist

The rewards of a career as an occupational therapist What do pediatrics, geriatrics and cardiology have in common? Patients in these three very different branches of medicine can benefit from occupational therapy. An occupational therapist (OT) helps people with disabling conditions to recover or develop daily living skills, such as dressing, cooking and eating. An OT's right-hand man, or woman, is the occupational therapy assistant (OTA). This versatile occupation is proving to be a rewarding career choice for many who are returning to school to heighten employment prospects.

Read More

How to keep your pet healthy during any season

How to keep your pet healthy during any season Americans love pets - to the tune of 62 percent of all households with at least one pet in residence. Ask any pet owner about the benefits of having a dog or cat. Many describe their pet as part of the family. A professional offers tips to improve your pet's health and quality of life.

Read More

Professionals find passion, paychecks in sports business industry

Professionals find passion, paychecks in sports business industry Decades ago, the sports industry was a combination of talented athletes and mom and pop business owners. But now, in an economic time when many industries are hurting, sports business is one that is thriving and growing.

Read More

Put kids' dental health on the fast track

Put kids' dental health on the fast track When you're a NASCAR driver like Greg Biffle, driver of the No. 16 3M Ford Fusion in the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, nothing makes you smile like a trip to victory lane. Biffle is helping deliver the message to children about healthy habits like brushing, flossing, visiting the dentist and making smart food choices.

Read More

Nationwide diabetes education events create awareness, promote healthy living

Nationwide diabetes education events create awareness, promote healthy living Whether you are at risk for, have been recently diagnosed or are living with diabetes, it is essential to make sure you have the information necessary to manage your disease. It can also be overwhelming caring for someone with diabetes.

Read More

Ten risk factors contributing to strokes

Ten risk factors contributing to strokes A recent study suggests that 90 percent of strokes are the result of 10 risk factors. Conducted by the Population Health Research Institute at McMaster University in Ontario Canada, this study found that those individuals demonstrating one or more risk factors, ranging from hypertension and stress to abdominal obesity and diabetes, are at a greater risk of experiencing a stroke than those who do not.

Read More

What you can do to sleep better

What you can do to sleep better If you're like many Americans, you long for more and better sleep. The secret to more restful nights varies for each person, but you can do several things to give yourself the best chance of getting a good night's rest.

Read More

Prenatal surgery promises brighter future for babies with spina bifida

Prenatal surgery promises brighter future for babies with spina bifida For expectant parents, the 18-week ultrasound marks an exciting milestone. For most, it is the first time they get to see their child, they can learn the sex of the baby and the doctor makes sure development is progressing normally. Mike and Katherine Mulligan of Cincinnati, Ohio, went for their first ultrasound in September 2000, and like most parents-to-be, expected to hear only good news. Instead, their dreams were dashed when they learned their unborn baby had spina bifida. But there was hope.

Read More

Putting the spotlight on rare diseases

Putting the spotlight on rare diseases For people with a rare and serious disease, the journey to getting an accurate diagnosis and confirming a proper treatment regimen can be arduous. Rare diseases, including some cancers, can be difficult to diagnose because symptoms are often misleading, misunderstood or misinterpreted. As a result, it can sometimes take years for patients to reach a correct diagnosis and begin the path to proper care.

Read More

From scrape to scar and beyond: tips to minimize scarring

Scars come in all shapes, sizes and textures, but they have one thing in common: everyone has them. While there is no way to eliminate a scar, there are simple steps you can take to help prevent a more serious scar.

Read More

Understanding asbestos: risk of exposure still exists

Asbestos exposure is a serious issue that affects millions of American workers. As a naturally occurring material - which is easily separated into microscopic fibers - asbestos is linked to a number of lung diseases, including mesothelioma cases. Unfortunately, too many people underestimate their risk of exposure.

Read More

Know your risk - two out of three obstructive sleep apnea sufferers are undiagnosed

Know your risk - two out of three obstructive sleep apnea sufferers are undiagnosed Getting enough sleep is essential for a healthy lifestyle and a lack of sleep can have a negative impact on health, work and life. The good news is that most sleep disorders are preventable or treatable, but less than a third of sufferers seek professional help.

Read More

Nurses are amazing: Celebrate one today

Nurses are amazing: Celebrate one today When you, or a family member, need medical attention, one of the first people you encounter may be a nurse. Nurses provide constant care throughout the patient journey. From helping patients understand their treatment, through assisting with procedures, to the administration of medicine - the role of nurses is pivotal. Nurses are the critical-thinking, quick-acting, deeply caring professionals at the heart of good patient care.

Read More

Heart disease: first signs different, but threat similar for men and women

Heart disease: first signs different, but threat similar for men and women While heart disease continues to receive a lot of attention, certain myths surrounding the disease persist. A couple of the most common myths are that heart disease is more common in men than women, and that the first signs of a heart attack are the same for both men and women.

Read More

Help smokers keep resolutions and stay on track to quit - simple tips and tools

Help smokers keep resolutions and stay on track to quit - simple tips and tools On average, it takes a smoker up to nine attempts to quit before they're able to do so successfully. Every relapse begins with smaller lapses - so quitters shouldn't stop trying. Here are some tips to help.

Read More

Ten steps to conquering heart disease

Ten steps to conquering heart disease Heart disease claims the lives of 600,000 Americans each year, and another 12.7 million suffer from heart attacks, yet 80 percent of all heart disease is preventable. Here are some tips for reducing your risk.

Read More

Boomers: Big-impact health activities you can do in 15 minutes or less

Boomers: Big-impact health activities you can do in 15 minutes or less The American baby boomer generation isn't content sitting still - they live full lives working, traveling and pursuing their favorite hobbies. Age is only a number for this determined group whose population is pushing an estimated 78 million. If you are one of the many active baby boomers, you understand your health is a priority, but that doesn't mean you want to spend long hours each day making sure you stay well. Luckily some of the best things you can do for yourself only take a matter of minutes each day.

Read More

When is nonprescription cold medicine not enough?

When is nonprescription cold medicine not enough? Do you have a cold that just won't go away? The aisle at your local drugstore is overflowing with different cold medicines, and choosing the right one feels like a gamble with your wallet taking the hit at every purchase. Here are some helpful tips to help you get better quick.

Read More

How to increase your body's HGH level naturally

How to increase your body's HGH level naturally If you're a sports fan, you're probably familiar with the term human growth hormone - HGH for short. While you may have become familiar with HGH as a performance-enhancing substance that's banned in competitive sports, human growth hormone is actually something that your body produces naturally.

Read More

Why surgical technology is a growing career in health care

Why surgical technology is a growing career in health care Today's health care industry offers a wider variety of positions than ever before. This is in part due to the expanding health care needs of about 78 million aging baby boomers. Surgical technology can be a rewarding career choice for those looking to enter the health care arena. Here's what you need to know.

Read More

Is your showerhead making you sick?

Is your showerhead making you sick? Hand sanitizer, flu shots and regular exercise are just some of the ways Americans build their immunity to protect themselves from harmful bacteria and illness. But many may be missing a simple step for preventing health problems. Showerheads are moist, warm, and dark, and those that spray hard water are especially ripe for bacterial growth.

Read More

Volunteering: small acts, big change

Volunteering: small acts, big change For many communities across the country, the smallest acts of kindness can make the biggest difference. Whether it's working at a local soup kitchen, visiting a nursing home, mentoring youth, or helping to paint a local house in disrepair, there are many ways to get involved.

Read More

Maintain the health of your home with spring mold and mildew intervention

Maintain the health of your home with spring mold and mildew intervention Mold and mildew are types of microscopic fungi that can be found both indoors and outdoors. There are more than 3,000 different types of mold, the spores of which are invisible and float through the air, attaching themselves to surfaces, and creating damage before we are able to even see the problem. Here's what you need to know and what you can do about it.

Read More

Brooke Burke-Charvet manages work, life and family with allergies

Brooke Burke-Charvet manages work, life and family with allergies Every year, an estimated 40 million Americans suffer from indoor and outdoor allergies, and managing everyday life can be challenging when also faced with troublesome symptoms, like sneezing and itchy, watery eyes.

Read More

Beware of the outdoors this summer

Beware of the outdoors this summer Heading out for an afternoon in the park and a good book? Few things beat whiling away the warm summer hours immersed in a spine-tingling mystery or engrossed in a heart-warming romance. And while enjoying the latest best-seller curled up in the sun like a sleeping cat is a great way to help your body relax and unwind from all of life's stresses, you should still be aware of the dangerous health factors.

Read More

Bid adieu to achoo: finding relief from spring allergies

Bid adieu to achoo: finding relief from spring allergies For many, spring signifies the budding of flowers and longer days filled with warm sunshine. But for one in five people, spring also means allergies are in full swing. Whether you're affected year-round or during a specific season, learning how to manage allergy symptoms can be vital to restoring your comfort and quality of life.

Read More

Suffer from migraines? Treatments help prevent attacks before they start

Suffer from migraines? Treatments help prevent attacks before they start What really is migraine? Some people casually use the term to describe a bad headache. But the millions who have been diagnosed with a migraine condition know that it's so much more than that. In addition to severe head pain that can last for hours or even days, they may also experience nausea, vomiting and extreme sensitivity to light or sound. Are there effective treatments for preventing debilitating migraine attacks? New guidelines say yes, but many people are not taking advantage of these treatments.

Read More

How to build muscle in your body with the help of a popular supplement

How to build muscle in your body with the help of a popular supplement If you're into weightlifting or follow sports on even a superficial level, you've probably heard of creatine. A supplement that's exploded in popularity over the past 20 years, creatine is often used by professional athletes and casual weightlifters alike, in hopes it will enhance their performance and help build muscle.

Read More

Resolved to quit smoking? Tips for saving on smoking cessation products

Resolved to quit smoking? Tips for saving on smoking cessation products Although smoking is often touted as an expensive habit, nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to aid in quitting smoking can seem like an expensive purchase as well. The reluctance to spend money on smoking cessation products leads many smokers to try to do it "cold turkey" - the most popular method for quitting smoking, but also one that frequently leads to relapse. However, the use of NRT products to quit smoking can almost triple a smoker's chances of success.

Read More

Five must-have fitness tools

Five must-have fitness tools Everyone wants to look and feel great, and selecting the right workout gear can make all the difference when pursuing a life of health and fitness. The five tools below are designed to help individuals achieve their wellness goals, whether kick starting a new workout regime or taking a current routine to the next level.

Read More

Living green and eating clean

Living green and eating clean The trend of protecting the environment continues to gain momentum, and people everywhere are adopting more eco-friendly lifestyles. Within this movement, a growing number are taking a look at their diets and seeing how eating more natural foods can improve their health while minimizing the impact on the environment.

Read More

Boomers: Living comfortably at home in style

Boomers: Living comfortably at home in style As the years pass, Americans in the baby boomer generation are changing the definition of how they want to live comfortably during their later years. Boomers are opting to continue living where they're already secure and happy - right at home.

Read More

An apple a day keeps the dentist away

An apple a day keeps the dentist away While tooth decay remains one of the most common health problems in children, it is also the most preventable, experts say. Here are some tips on what children and parents can do to protect and strengthen their smiles for years to come

Read More

Protect workplace information to keep businesses, customers safe

Protect workplace information to keep businesses, customers safe What many people don't realize is that when they don't protect their company's confidential information at work, they're not just putting their employer, clients and customers at risk - they're endangering themselves and their co-workers too.

Read More

Keeping snacks light

Keeping snacks light Hunger pangs between breakfast, lunch and dinner can strike even those with the most nutritious meal regimens. In fact, snacking recently has become popular; 97 percent of Americans snack daily, up from 71 percent four decades ago, according to a new study from the Journal of Nutrition.

Read More

Enjoy outdoor activities while keeping ticks and mosquitos away

Enjoy outdoor activities while keeping ticks and mosquitos away While warmer weather brings many opportunities to enjoy outdoor living spaces, it also ushers in unwanted pests like ticks and mosquitos.

Read More

Women: Life-changing tips for better health and energy

Women: Life-changing tips for better health and energy Moms, career women, singles enjoying life with close friends and family, and even women approaching their retirement years - women at every life stage can benefit from adding simple activities to improve their happiness and health.

Read More

Create a safer retreat for backyard summer fun

Create a safer retreat for backyard summer fun Swimming is the most popular summer activity and if you have a pool or spa, your backyard just may be this summer's most popular retreat for friends, neighbors and all the children that come with them. Adding as many water safety steps as possible is the best way to assure a safer and fun experience this summer.

Read More