Women's Health + Original Articles
While there's no single food that meets every nutritional requirement a person needs, doctors and researchers have pinpointed a handful of edibles as standouts in the field.
These so-called "super foods," as certain experts call them, are nutritionally dense and provide boatloads of vitamins and minerals along with excellent calorie and fat profiles. Make it a point to include at least a few of these in your diet every day:
Salmon.
Watching your weight or looking to up your nutrients? Smoothies are a delicious and easy way to add fruits and vegetables to your diet. Try some of these.
The beauty of smoothies is that they can be customized and made out of almost anything you have in your produce bin.
If you're watching your weight:
Use in-season fruit.
Whether fresh or frozen, fruit that's being grown tends to be sweeter than its out-of-season counterparts, meaning you don't need to add extra sugar or honey.
Understanding terms like "disease-free survival rate," "progression-free survival rate," and "5-year survival rate" can help you evaluate treatment options and assess the reliability of the information you obtain.
Trying to make sense of cancer statistics can be overwhelming. Adding to the confusion, many media reports lack context, and even reputable journals can promote misleading and overblown claims about cancer treatment. Understanding statistics, however, can help you evaluate treatment options and assess the reliability of the information you obtain.
Food manufacturers use both natural and synthetic preservatives to extend the life of many of the food products we eat. Government regulations limit the use of some of them. Here’s why.
Preservatives keep food products fresh long enough for them to get from the factory to the supermarket and eventually find a place on your dining table. They do this by slowing down the natural breakdown of fats, delaying the ripening process of fresh foods, and destroying or slowing down the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms that would otherwise grow on food.
While your intentions may be innocent, the illnesses that can be transmitted through a simple smooch are not. Watch out for these.
You may think a kiss is just a kiss, but in reality, it can be much more. Smooching can be romantic, but it can also transmit a variety of infections.
"When I think of the infectious risk of kissing, what comes to mind are viral infections," says Bruce Hirsch, MD, attending physician in infectious diseases at North Shore University Hospital in Manhasset, New York.
When you read the headlines about the latest advancements in cancer treatments, do you find yourself wondering, "What does this really mean?" Here's a guide to understanding the meaning behind the numbers.
Consider these two headlines, which announce the same study results:
New drug cuts cancer risk by 50%
Drug results in 2% drop in cancer risk
In this hypothetical study described by the Annie Appleseed project, 100 women take a new drug for cancer and 100 women take a placebo.
Your scalp can be a hidden zone for skin cancer, but a new study and advocacy campaign gets behind an innovative solution.
There's no question that the best way to beat skin cancer is to spot it early. Unfortunately, it's hard for you to see what may be growing on your own scalp or on the back of your neck. However, there is someone who already looks at that area carefully—your hairdresser.
Make hydration a priority before, during, and after your workout to keep your body nourished and replenished.
You've been told your whole life that you need your eight glasses of water a day, and while how much one needs to take in is still up for debate, the truth remains that for optimal functioning, the body needs a consistent intake of water.
For the average person, thirst should be your guide.
Selecting the right form of birth control depends on a variety of factors including hormone levels and sexual habits. Follow these five tips to make an educated decision.
Half of all girls are sexually active by the age of 17 and menopause doesn't typically take place until a woman reaches 50, so there are a lot of years during a woman's life when birth control may be needed, according to the Associated Press. Yet choosing the right contraceptive can lead to confusion and uncertainty.
Balancing office and home life can create conflicts between demands and stress from both sides. But there may also be healthy benefits to working outside the home.
Several recent studies have demonstrated that working, especially part time, provides mental health benefits for women.
A study in the December 2011 issue of the Journal of Family Psychology examined several aspects of well being in mothers who worked part time compared to those who worked full time or not at all.
If you're used to the dramatic representations of heart attacks on TV, you may be surprised to learn about real-life scenarios.
How many times have you seen this act on TV? The character on the screen gets a glazed look in his eyes, stumbles, and clutches his chest as he slowly (and dramatically) falls to the ground. This is the classic Hollywood depiction of a heart attack. And while this scenario might accurately describe some heart attacks, it's not representative.
The diagnosis and treatment of cancer is complex, and multiple healthcare professionals play key roles in providing comprehensive care. Your team of doctors might include...
The diagnosis and treatment of cancer is complex and multiple healthcare professionals play a role in providing comprehensive care to patients.
Oncology physicians
Physicians are either medical doctors (MDs) or osteopathic doctors (OD) and many complete additional training in specific medical conditions, such as oncology.
A vaccine originally developed to prevent tuberculosis may be the key contender when it comes to reversing type 1 diabetes. Preliminary findings are promising.
Individuals with Type 2 diabetes are fortunate in that it's possible, with diet and lifestyle changes, to actually reverse the course of the disease. Even if they're unable to reverse Type 2, it's possible for them to avoid going on insulin by losing weight, watching carbs, and getting moderate exercise.
Suffering from anxiety? Stomach issues? A cold that won’t quit? There’s an herb for you.
Herbs and spices are as at-home in your medicine chest as they are in your pantry. That's because they possess powerful healing properties that have been used as medicinals for thousands of years. Check out these 10 common herbs you may already have growing in your yard or sitting in your spice rack.
Here's a cost-free way to turn back the clock. It's as simple as putting on a happy face. According to a new study, people who smile appear younger than their true age.
In a study published in the journal, Psychology and Aging, researchers from The Institute for Human Development in Berlin discovered the unusual byproduct of smiling. They recruited 154 people of various ages to examine more than 2,000 photographs. The photographs depicted young faces and older ones wearing a wide range of expressions—from sad to happy.
Whether you're an avid runner or a beginner, running a marathon is an attainable goal with the right training, attitude, and strategy.
According to MarathonGuide.com, 503,000 people ran a marathon in 2010. With more and more Americans endeavoring the 26.2 mile trek, you may be wondering how you, too, can join the trend. Though much of how you train will be based on your previous experience and personal training preferences, there are a few tips that anyone willing to tackle the challenge of a marathon should follow.
If you’re a diabetic who’s going through menopause, you’re up against some unique challenges. Find out what steps you can take to stay on top of your health.
If you're going through menopause, you're undoubtedly familiar with moodiness, sleep difficulties, and hot flashes. If you have Type 2 diabetes, you've got a few additional concerns. Here's what you can expect during menopause-and what you can do to stay fit and healthy.
The dietary choices you make during breakfast can set your course for the rest of the day. Let this go-to guide help you bring a wholesome cereal selection to the table each morning.
It's been said time and again: breakfast is the most important meal of the day. And cereal is a great morning choice, right? Well, not necessarily. The grocery store is filled with a barrage of cereal selections, and many are downright unhealthy. So how can you determine if the cereal's worthy of a place in your cart or if it should go right back on the shelf? Take a look at the label:
If sugar is the first ingredient on the list, put it back on the shelf.
This alternative treatment has proven benefits for conditions like chronic pain and stress. But can it combat infertility?
If you're trying to have a baby, acupuncture is one treatment you may never have considered to help increase your chances of conceiving. The centuries-old Asian medical practice, in which sterile, ultra-thin needles are placed in various pressure points (or Qi, pronounced "chee" in the body), is believed to reduce stress and improve circulation.
New findings stir up additional concerns among birth control users. Here's a rundown of the research and an expert's take on the topic.
Two recent studies found that women who take contraceptive pills containing the hormone drospirenone (Yaz, Yasmine, Beyaz) have 2 to 3 times the risk of developing blood clots compared to those taking pills containing levonorgestrel. The FDA is still reviewing the research and conducting its own study of the contraceptive's safety.
From the most common forms to the obvious (and not-so-obvious) signs, here's your overview of this common condition.
Anemia affects nearly 9 percent of the population, yet most people don't understand what it is. Even the term anemia is confusing because it indicates several distinct health conditions with different symptoms, causes, and treatments. So what exactly is anemia?
Most of the time, when someone is diagnosed with anemia, she has a condition called Iron-Deficiency anemia.
If you have a "sweet tooth," research suggests this preference could actually affect your personality. But does it make you sweeter or does it make you sour?
"You are what you eat." A platitude used by parents and high school health teachers alike. And a new report published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology has added credence to this adage.
Research conducted by psychologists at the North Dakota State University in Fargo suggests that individuals who regularly eat sweets are more likely to help another person in need.
If you’re tired of dragging yourself to the gym, maybe it’s time to move your workout to the dance floor.
Dance-based workouts can provide everything your body needs to get toned, fit, and in-shape. Plus, they're fun, inspiring, and they're great places to meet new people.
Here are six kinds of dance that will keep you on your toes:
Belly dancing is a centuries-old dance tradition that grew from many different middle-eastern cultures.
Rich in color, flavor, and nutrients, these versatile vegetables star in a variety of international cuisines. Here's a bushel of ways to add them to your diet.
Whether eaten raw with your favorite dip, jarred and pickled, or cooked up as part of a savory dinner entrée, peppers deserve a place at your table. By far, the most popular variety of pepper eaten in the U.S. is the bell pepper. Here's a guide to the differences between these bell peppers:
Green Peppers
The least expensive of the bell peppers and the least sweet, this pepper is picked before achieving full ripeness.
For injury prevention and the sheer sake of comfort, the right pair of shoes are essential. Let this guide point you in the right direction.
Falling and hurting yourself becomes a real danger as you get older, especially if you don't get enough exercise, have vision problems, take sedating medications, suffer from osteoporosis or other bone-weakening conditions, or there are environmental hazards in your home, such as loose rugs, poor lighting, or unstable furniture or fixtures.
Reducing your meat consumption doesn't mean you only have bean protein sources left. Consider these vegan meat substitutes. They offer the flavors and textures you enjoy from your favorite meats.
If your goal is to cut down on or cut out meat consumption, you may be wondering if there are worthy substitutes out there. Sure, you'll eat more fish, chicken, and beans, but are there any foods that can really stand in for meat in your favorite recipes? Happily, the answer is yes.
If you're heading into your senior years sometime in the next decade, or you're already there, it's important to consider the type of doctor who can best serve your physical and emotional needs as you age.
A geriatrician is typically an internist or family practitioner who has had additional training in the medical and psychological care of men and women age 65 and older. Geriatricians develop a special understanding of what happens to the body as it ages and what aging means with respect to your health.
If you're having trouble climaxing, you're not alone. Many older adults have difficulty achieving orgasm. Here, five reasons why you're having difficulty.
If your sex life is suffering because of your inability to reach orgasm, chances are you're trying to figure out why and what you can do about it. Experts say, there are physical, as well as psychological causes to your sexual dilemma.
"There are psychological, physical, and biological reasons for the inability to orgasm," says Renee Horowitz, MD, FACOG, director of the Center for Sexual Wellness in Farmington Hills, New York.
While superficial matters may be low on your list of priorities when you're facing a serious illness, feeling good about how you look can lift your spirits and your self-confidence.
Cancer treatments can wreak havoc on your appearance. While beauty may be low on your list of priorities when you're facing a serious illness, feeling good about how you look can lift your spirits and your self-confidence.
Cancer patients have unique skin and hair care challenges.
Sometimes too much “care” can ruin your tresses. Here's how to keep your hair under control without overdoing it.
We all want our hair to look healthy and beautiful. But most of us don't realize how easy it is to over-do the steps we take to make our hair look great. Here are eight common mistakes and tips to keep your hair under control.
Over-Washing
Most people don't need to wash their hair more than once or twice a week, but some wash it once or twice a day! Unless your hair is very oily, resist the urge to wash it too often.
If you and your partner don't have the same sexual appetite, worry not. We'll provide the insight to diagnose the issue and 9 exciting ways to get you seeing eye-to-eye.
Getting older can take a toll on your sexual appetite. And if you're in a relationship where you and your partner have different sexual needs, frustration and tension can result.
Often, it's the woman who experiences a diminished sexual appetite, experts say.
What's one thing you never want to leave home without? A first-aid kit. When scrapes, stings, bumps, and boo-boos happen, make sure you have what you need to treat the injury right away.
What's one thing you never want to leave home without? A first-aid kit. When scrapes, stings, bumps, and boo-boos happen, make sure you have what you need to treat the injury right away.
The American Red Cross offers a complete line of kits you can slip in your pocket, pack in your purse, or stow in the trunk of your car.
When you consider all the different ways you can add exercise to your life, it's really not that difficult to make exercise fun, easy, and something that enriches you.
People have a million excuses for why they slack off on fitness:
I don't have time,
It's too much work
It's boring
I'd rather be with my friends
But what if exercise was fun? What if you enjoyed it so much you made the time,...
White fruits and vegetables contain as many essential nutrients and other health-promoting substances as do red, yellow, and green foods. And some of these substances may be especially important for aging adults.
Don't be fooled by their lack of color—white fruits and vegetables contain as many essential nutrients and other health-promoting substances as do red, yellow, and green foods. And some of these substances may be especially important for aging adults.
Being “old” just got younger. However, to achieve that there's something you need to do.
Being "old" just got younger, according to a new study in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise—that is if you hit the gym regularly.
After administering fitness tests to 4,500 volunteers ages 20 to 90, scientists reported that the fitness levels/indicators of active middle-aged participants were nearly identical to that of inactive 20-year-olds.
The debate rages on as to whether social networking sites isolate people or contribute to global connectedness. One new study's results offer an interesting perspective.
Much has been made of the social, emotional, and intellectual implications of social media sites such as Facebook and Twitter. Some studies suggest that they can contribute to depressive symptoms while others feel they foster a sense of a global community.
Brighten your smile without breaking the bank with these at-home, do-it-yourself ingredients.
According to the American Dental Association, tooth whitening can be achieved by either bleaching the color of your teeth, or by physically abrading surface stains to make them lighten or disappear. There are hundreds of teeth whitening products you can buy that use these techniques, but combining natural products can save you the expense.
Cold weather brings unique challenges to skin health. Keep these tips in mind and you'll have smooth, hydrated skin in this chilly season.
Winter can cause as much harm to your skin as summer's damaging sun rays, especially if you suffer from dryness or a skin condition. Take care to defend your skin against the effects of these common culprits:
1. Dry indoor air is one of the most damaging, dehydrating elements of winter.
There are many known benefits to using mouthwash, but if yours has too much of this common ingredient, this daily routine can reverse the health of your teeth and gums.
Four out of five dentists may recommend you use it, but have you ever wondered how mouthwash affects your mouth?
Many brands tout the bacteria and bad breath (also known as halitosis) eliminating benefits of their products. The secret ingredient? Alcohol.
Don't just plan the itinerary of your next vacation, plan on having travel insurance to protect you against asthma gone haywire. Here's what you need to consider.
So you finally booked that vacation you've been dreaming about for years. But if you're traveling to a new place, it's important to remember that you will still be exposed to a range of asthma triggers, which is why it's a good idea to invest in a good travel insurance protection plan.
Nonmedical or non-health-related drugs have become very popular. But before you decide to try these kinds of drugs and procedures, proceed with caution.
According to the National Library of Medicine (NLM), defining what is a "lifestyle drug" actually is a subject of much debate. However, according to the NLM it's typically thought of as a drug taken to satisfy a non-medical or non-health-related goal.
Learn how to keep the food you buy fresh and safe to eat.
If your kitchen cabinets hold cans dating back to the last century and your freezer is home to unrecognizable lumps of ice-coated leftovers, you may be due for a crash course on food storage. Knowing where and how to store food is tricky. Some produce thrives in the refrigerator, while other types wilt and lose flavor.
Studies have found that the skin on an apple contains a substance that not only promotes muscle growth and prevents the loss of muscle that comes with aging, but may also lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Laboratory studies have found that the skin on an apple contains a substance that not only promotes muscle growth and prevents the loss of muscle that comes with aging, but may also lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides.
In addition to vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other substances such as antioxidants and phytochemicals that are known to protect against cancer and other forms of chronic disease, apples contain a chemical called ursolic acid.
In a society obsessed with beauty, most of us don't want to stand out because of our appearance. Whether you have a physical deformity, or are just unhappy with some aspect of how you look, follow these tips to over come your insecurities.
In a society obsessed with beauty, most of us don't want to stand out because of our appearance. Whether you have a physical deformity, or are just unhappy with some aspect of how you look, insecurities about your appearance can negatively affect your quality of life and mental well-being.
The ups and downs associated with relationships don't pertain only to emotions. In fact, your partnership, good or bad, can have a real effect on your body.
When you and your partner or significant other are happy together, your stress level plummets, and your heart thanks you for it. Conversely, a toxic relationship puts considerable stress and unhappiness on a couple, and their hearts can show the strain, experts say.
While java will give you a jolt, you have other pick-me-up options that may be less jarring to your system. Consider forgoing the caffeine for a protein-rich snack.
If you've ever been hit with the 3 p.m. sleepies (and who hasn't?), you may have been tempted to head to the nearest coffee bar for a caffeine infusion. But while java will give you a jolt, you have other pick-me-up options that may be less jarring to your system.
There's nothing wrong with trying to slim down, but watch out for these red flags.
So you've got a high-school reunion coming up in three weeks, or a Caribbean vacation planned, or a wedding to go to. You absolutely have to drop 10 pounds immediately. There's nothing wrong with trying to slim down, but make sure you're doing it in a healthy way.
QualityHealth sits down with fitness expert Jackie Warner to discuss her initiative to give people with psoriasis a renewed resolve to get fit and feel great in their skin.
For some, exercise is like brushing teeth—a regular part of their day routine. But for people with psoriasis—an autoimmune disease that impacts the skin and restricts range of motion—fitting in just a few jumping jacks into the day can be challenging.
QualityHealth sat down with American Idol's Casey Abrams to talk about his experience living with ulcerative colitis. Here's what you should know about this chronic, but manageable inflammatory bowel disease.
American Idol contestant Casey Abrams was a freshman at a large college who was slowly adjusting from a small high school when he developed worrisome and painful symptoms in his stomach. He was losing weight, running to the bathroom up to a dozen times a day, and was generally feeling unwell.
Can you control whether you get Alzheimer's disease? The answer is...maybe. In some cases, there is nothing a person can do to stop the illness. In other instances, lifestyle and environment may play a part.
Can you control whether you get Alzheimer's disease? The answer is...maybe. In some cases, there is nothing a person can do to stop the illness. In other instances, lifestyle and environment may play a part. Here's what you need to know about the factors that increase your Alzheimer's risk.
It can be difficult to see someone you care about suffering from pain. You want to help, but you're not sure how. So you cast about for something to say...and you end up making your loved one more upset than before. How did your comment get taken so wrongly? And what should you have said instead?
It can be difficult to see someone you care about suffering from pain. You want to help, but you're not sure how. So you cast about for something to say...and you end up making your loved one more upset than before. How did your comment get taken so wrongly? And what should you have said instead?
"It can't be that bad.
More than any other time, vaccines are extremely crucial to senior health. They can help you ward off sicknesses that are now harder to tackle.
It's especially important to keep up with vaccinations when you're older because certain infections and diseases hit seniors more heavily than they do on younger people.
The flu is one example. While normally influenza is not fatal, it does take a number of lives every year, and 90 percent of those it kills are 65 years old or older.
New research has uncovered a tool that lets doctors accurately assess your pain without needing your input.
When you tell a doctor you're having pain, he or she will typically ask you to rank it on a scale of one to ten. But if you say "five," does the doctor really know what you're feeling? Is your five the same as someone else's five? And what if you aren't able to verbally communicate? How will your physician know what you're feeling without your saying anything?
New research has uncovered a tool that lets doctors accurately assess your pain without needing your input.
A recent study showed that a lack of B12 can not only result in lower scores on tests of cognitive ability; it actually can correlate with smaller total brain volume.
Want to stave off cognitive problems as you get older? Consider making a special effort to get enough Vitamin B12. A recent study showed that a lack of B12 can not only result in lower scores on tests of cognitive ability; it actually can correlate with smaller total brain volume.
Many popular skin care and cosmetic products contain potentially harmful ingredients. Here's a roundup of ingredients to look out for, the products that may contain them, and why they can be dangerous.
Many popular skin care and cosmetic products contain potentially harmful ingredients. Here's a roundup of ingredients to look out for, the products that may contain them, and why they can be dangerous:
1. Coal tar. Used in hair dyes and dandruff prevention products, this carcinogen is often labeled as FD&C or D&C on product labels.
Many fit women are turning to mini-liposuction procedures to remove problem fat deposits that can't be removed naturally. But does this trend represent a dangerous quest for perfection?
Recent reports reveal a growing trend of fit women turning to mini-liposuction procedures to tackle problem areas. But some wonder, does this represent a dangerous quest for perfection? Experts are divided on the issue, but to help you make up your mind, it's important to look at what liposuction is for.
Discover which parts of your body hold clues to how well your digestive tract is functioning.
Feeling sluggish? Stick out your tongue. It holds clues to how efficient your body's digestive tract is running, says Brent Barlow, ND, Okanagan Naturopathic Healthcare in Kelowna, British Columbia. But this isn't the only secret your body has to share.
If you feel that you've been exercising and no results ensue, it may be time to consider whether digestive problems could be getting in the way.
The basic rule of weight loss says that if you take in fewer calories than you use, you'll shed pounds. But sometimes, no matter how hard you try it seems that the scale just won't budge. If you feel that you've been exercising and no results ensue, it may be time to consider whether digestive problems could be getting in the way.
Whether you're the jealous one or the recipient, sibling rivalries are never easy to cope with. Here, tips on how to get past the green-eyed monster and rebuild your relationship.
Jealous of your brother's great job? Envious that your sister's kids are always so beautifully behaved that your parents compliment her constantly? Whether you're the jealous one, always feeling like your sibling has a better job/house/car/kids than you, or you're the sibling that others in your family are jealous of, envy can be stressful and draining.
Typically when you have muscle pain it's equated to soreness from working out or maybe an injury. But what most don't consider is how muscle pain is often associated with chronic health conditions.
Typically when you have muscle pain it's equate to soreness from working out or maybe an injury. But what most don't consider is how muscle pain is often associated with chronic health conditions.
Muscle pain tops the symptom list for many illnesses and health conditions from the flu to fibromyalgia.
Several studies have shown that lack of sleep has a profound effect on your mental well-being and that, for some people, chronic insomnia increases the risk of developing a psychological disorder such as depression or anxiety.
You know how you feel after a restless or sleepless night—grouchy, stressed out, and just plain awful! The longer you go without a good night's sleep, the worse you feel. Here's what you can do to get your sleep habits—and your mood—back on track.
Fresh fruits and vegetables can help fight cancer, but do you know which ones are best for your bowel?
Fresh fruits and vegetables can help fight cancer, but do you know which ones are best for your bowel?
Your gastrointestinal tract is actually one long tube that stretches from your mouth to your rectum, with lots of twists, turns, bulges, and folds in between.
If diet or lifestyle habits are at the root of your bloating or gas overload, there are steps you can take during the day to avoid having problems at night.
Everyone produces gas while digesting food and, once formed, and that gas has to go somewhere. Throughout the day and night, normal amounts of gas pass through your body unnoticed, but any build-up of excess gas usually makes itself known. If it passes through your mouth, you burp.
If antibiotics are making you nauseous, eating the right foods and staying away from the wrong ones can help you feel better.
If antibiotics are making you nauseous, eating the right foods and avoiding the wrong ones can help you feel better.
When you take antibiotics to kill the bacteria that are causing an infection, the drug has a "take no prisoners" effect on your body: It wipes out all bacteria, good and bad.
When you don't get enough sleep, it becomes difficult to focus your attention and manage your emotions. You lose perspective. It is as if you become a different person than who you are when you are well rested.
No one knows exactly why we are designed to sleep, but just about everyone knows what happens when we don't.
If you are one of the estimated 50 to 70 million Americans who suffer from chronic sleep loss, you are probably feeling the consequences right now.
If you drink a bit more coffee or tea than most people you know, scientists say it may be thanks to your DNA.
If you drink a bit more coffee or tea than most people you know, scientists say it may be thanks to your DNA.
Ah, caffeine. It wakes you up in the morning, helps you get your work done throughout the day and, after a long night, may be the only thing that can get you through the next day.
Taking a hot bath every evening is a natural way to decrease stress and anxiety, and ease yourself into a good night's sleep. Here's how to make this pre-bedtime ritual work for you.
Taking a hot bath every evening is a natural way to decrease stress and anxiety, and ease yourself into a good night's sleep. Here's how to make this pre-bedtime ritual work for you.
Timing is Everything
Figure out how much sleep you need and what time you need to go to bed to get that amount.
Fluid retention is a common occurrence. Here are 10 lifestyle changes you can make to help reduce or eliminate excess fluids.
Your body tries to maintain equilibrium at all times. However, sometimes pregnancy, premenstrual side effects, medications, or an underlying medical condition will disrupt the balance of water and chemicals, causing fluid retention. You may also hear this described as water retention, edema, or dropsy.
Here's what you need to know about this neurological condition, from symptoms to treatment options.
You may not have heard of Lewy Body Dementia because it tends to be overshadowed by its close relations, Alzheimer's Disease and Parkinson's Disease. But experts say that this neurological disorder is woefully underdiagnosed, with many doctors uninformed about it.
Want to save your eyesight as you get older? Consider forgoing that juicy steak in favor of a green salad.
Want to save your eyesight as you get older? Consider forgoing that juicy steak in favor of a green salad. A recent study out of England has found a positive correlation between the amount of meat a person consumes and his or her risk of developing cataracts.
When your feet have problems, it's hard to feel good about anything else. Here's a rundown of four common foot problems, from bunions to plantar fasciitis.
Your feet create the foundation for the rest of your body. When your feet have problems, it's hard to feel good about anything else. Millions of Americans suffer with foot problems that can often be prevented or easily treated. Learn what you can do about these four common foot problems:
1) Bunions form when your big toe points toward your second toe and causes a bump to form on the outside edge of your toe.
Physicians and fitness experts are teaming up to help patients exercise their way to wellness.
One of the top fitness trends of 2011 is teaming physicians with fitness experts to bring the power of exercise to health care. That's because exercise is often the best medicine.
Studies say that physical inactivity costs the U.S. health care system about $102 billion dollars per year.
Food safety issues make headlines far too often. Here's how to help ensure you're feeding your family safe, high-quality food.
Food safety issues make headlines far too often. Even "healthy" foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean meats have been connected with serious illnesses caused by contamination with bacteria, parasites, and chemicals. This has many Americans wondering, "What's safe to eat?" The answer may depend on the quality of the foods you choose and whether or not you follow common sense safety-precautions.
Eliminating some foods from your diet may help relieve some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Adding others may help even more. Here's how to eat to beat PMS.
Eliminating some foods from your diet may help relieve some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Adding others may help even more. Here's how to eat to beat PMS.
There are diet strategies for treating and preventing some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as water retention, bloating, moodiness, and weight gain.
Some experts say that even if you are a night owl by nature, you can transform yourself into a morning lark and be more productive during the day. Here's how.
Some experts say that even if you are a night owl by nature, you can transform yourself into a morning lark and be more productive during the day. These tips for changing your sleep habits may seem obvious, and you may have tried some of them from time to time to no avail.
Like supplements, fortified foods offer insurance against the health problems associated with nutritional deficiencies. But are they an ideal replacement?
Fortified foods provide an alternative source of nutrients for people who don't consume enough of the foods that naturally supply those nutrients. Like supplements, fortified foods offer insurance against the health problems associated with nutritional deficiencies.
Some doctors say it's a real condition, some say it's not. Here's a breakdown of both sides.
People are talking about adrenal fatigue. The symptoms are vague and mimic those of many conditions. Many doctors aren't convinced it's a real medical problem, but a growing number of health professionals say adrenal fatigue is among the most commonly undiagnosed conditions today.
If you have a hard time falling asleep or staying asleep, there may be a simple solution.
If you have primary insomnia, that is, if you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep and it's not due to a medical problem, it is quite possible that one of your routine habits is to blame. Eating big dinners, drinking alcoholic beverages, sleeping in a hot room, exercising late in the day, and smoking cigarettes can all prevent you from getting a good night's sleep.
If you're sawing logs at night, it's important to find out if it's just a noisy nuisance or a sign of a serious sleep disorder.
Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea, but everyone who has sleep apnea snores. If you're sawing logs at night, it's important to find out if it's just a noisy nuisance or a sign of a serious sleep disorder.
Snoring is a symptom of obstructive sleep apnea, a serious medical condition that results in blocked airflow while you sleep.
Researchers have found that night owls tend to eat twice as much junk food and weigh more than people who go to bed on the early side and wake up with the sun.
Yes, it can. Researchers have found that night owls—people who routinely stay up late and sleep in the next morning—tend to eat twice as much junk food and weigh more than people who go to bed on the early side and wake up with the sun.
For some people, "early to bed, early to rise" just doesn't cut it.
This drugstore staple is often overlooked in our search for the best health and beauty aids. But there are some good reasons to add this affordable compound to your shopping cart.
This drugstore staple is often overlooked in our search for the best health and beauty aids. But there are some good reasons to add this affordable compound to your shopping cart.
Epsom Salt—or magnesium sulfate—is a pure mineral compound and essential electrolyte that many of us need more of in our diet.
While clenched fists and gritted teeth may seem like the anger response of a toddler, new research suggests this reaction can set you at ease.
While clenched fists and gritted teeth may seem like the anger response of a toddler, new research suggests this reaction can set you at ease.
In a study published in the Journal of Consumer Research that was conducted at National University of Singapore and the University of Chicago, participants were better able to withstand physical pain when clenching their muscles—squeezing their fists, clenching their teeth, or scrunching facial muscles.
While a set of pearly whites is certainly aesthetically pleasing, poor oral health can put you at risk for a variety of chronic conditions.
Poll your friends about what physical characteristics they find most attractive. The majority will include a "nice smile" at the top of the list. While a set of pearly whites is certainly aesthetically pleasing, poor oral health can put you at risk for a variety of chronic conditions.
Gel manicures may be the hottest offer at your local nail salon. They're rumored to last for weeks and are relatively affordable. But before you turn your hands over to a nail tech, be sure to know what you're getting into and know the associated risks.
Gel manicures may be the hottest offer at your local nail salon. They're rumored to last for weeks and are relatively affordable. But before you turn your hands over to a nail tech, be sure to know what you're getting into and know the associated risks.
Aero Jump is a jump rope-based workout developed by ex-boxer Michael Olajide, Jr. It's fun and fast-paced, but it's anything but child's play.
Jump ropes made their way from the playground to the boxing ring long ago, but now they're turning up in gyms and fitness centers all over the world. Aero Jump is a jump rope-based workout developed by ex-boxer Michael Olajide, Jr. It's fun and fast-paced, but it's anything but child's play.
Scientists now believe that consuming a diet high in acid-producing foods like animal proteins, processed foods, and sweeteners and low in fresh fruits and vegetables is partly responsible for the development of osteoporosis and diseases caused by chronic metabolic acidosis.
Did you know your bones are responsible for maintaining your body's delicate pH balance, which impacts your overall health and may even play a role in longevity?
What is pH balance? pH is a chemistry term that stands for "potential for hydrogen." In simpler terms, pH indicates how acid or alkaline a solution is on a scale of 1 to 14.
Nothing terrible will happen to your figure if you spend a night indulging in your favorite comfort foods. But unfortunately, if you get into the habit of noshing as a way to numb the pain of a breakup, you may be horrified the next time you hop on the scale.
Everyone knows digging into a carton of ice cream or polishing off a bag of cookies spells contentment, even if it's fleeting. After a traumatic breakup, turning to food for solace seems like a great solution.
Nothing terrible will happen to your figure if you spend a night or two indulging in your favorite comfort foods.
What if you could take a pill that would stop you from ever developing rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis? Research suggests there may be such a pill, and it's widely available and easy to obtain.
What if you could take a pill that would stop you from ever developing rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis? Research suggests there may be such a pill—and it's widely available and easy to obtain. In fact, your local supermarket no doubt has a bottle of it on a shelf right now.
How do you define a healthy snack? Low-fat? Low-calorie? Low-carb? Foods that fit into those categories may be good choices, but a better approach might be to choose snacks that are also high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
How do you define a healthy snack? Low-fat? Low-calorie? Low-carb? Foods that fit into those categories may be good choices, but a better approach might be to choose snacks that are also high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
Snacks are healthy when they fill in any nutritional gaps in your diet without adding excess calories.
If you wake up with a wet pillow, it may just be a normal effect of sleeping on your stomach or your side. In some cases, however, it could be a sign of a more serious problem.
If you wake up with a wet pillow, it may just be a normal effect of sleeping on your stomach or your side. In some cases, however, it could be a sign of a more serious problem.
Saliva coats your mouth and throat, makes it easier to swallow, helps food taste better, and keeps the area clean by washing away leftover food particles.
Starchy foods are essential for energy, and fatty foods can make you feel fuller. But there are a host of health complications that can ensue of you consume too much of both. Learn how eating the right combination of foods can help your digestive system function at its best.
Did you know that your gut contains 500 species of bacteria and that altogether, they weigh about three pounds? These bacteria play a critical role in digestion and other important health-related functions. Eating the wrong foods can throw off the delicate balance of good and bad bacteria and cause a host of digestive (and other) health problems.
Remaining safe behind the wheel is a complicated endeavor and there is a lot to be aware of in different situations. However, the following tips will provide you with the toolbox you need to keep yourself, your family, and your fellow drivers secure.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 30,000 Americans are killed in car accidents each year. Though there are a variety of causes linked to motor vehicle accidents—drunk driving, distracted driving, and speeding to name a few—the statistics prove that starting your car and pulling out onto the road is a dangerous task.
In recent years, products derived from oils to help achieve sleek styles have become very popular. Best of all, oils can be very budget friendly. Learn how and when to work oil into your hair care routine.
Natural oils have been used for centuries to keep hair looking healthy. In recent years, products derived from oils to help achieve sleek styles have become very popular. Best of all, oils can be very budget friendly. Learn how and when to work oil into your hair care routine.
Nearly every workplace has one, yet few know how to deal with him effectively. Follow these 6 tips to make your day go more smoothly.
Nearly every workplace has one: a truly annoying employee who gets under everyone's skin and who puts everyone into a bad mood. You may actually have entertained fantasies about him being transferred to another branch office.
The office jerk is likely...
A new observational study uncovered why men seem to struggle when it comes to talking about their problems. Read on to get the scoop.
The media and popular books, such as John Gray's Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus, lead us to believe that men and women have very different communication styles. This is only partially true. Men and women are actually more similar than not in how they communicate in close, personal relationships.
A study conducted at the University of Hawaii's animal science department of 106 pet owners found that almost a third experienced grief that lasted six months or more after their pet's death. Twelve percent reported that their grief caused major disruptions in their lives.
For many of us, a pet is a valued member of the family. In honor of the love, support, companionship and acceptance they show us, we celebrate their birthdays, buy them gifts, and provide top-notch medical care. We brag about their accomplishments, keep photos of them on our desks, and add their names to the holiday cards we send.
If you're tired of exercising in a crowd and can't afford one-on-one sessions with a fitness instructor, then small group training might be just what you need to kick your workout into high gear.
Everyone needs a little push every now and then. That's what personal trainers and group exercise classes are for. But if you're tired of exercising in a crowd and can't afford one-on-one sessions with a fitness instructor, then small group training might be just what you need to kick your workout into high gear.
The best way to boost your bones, besides weight-bearing exercise, is to take in enough of the substances that strengthen and build your skeleton. Here's a rundown of the top nutrients you need for a fit frame.
Your bones are the foundation of your body supporting you throughout your life. Just as you need to take care of your major organs, you need to tend to your bones in order to maintain optimal health. The best way to boost your bones, besides weight-bearing exercise, is to take in enough of the substances that strengthen and build your skeleton.
If you're a new divorcee, you may be surprised to find the dating game has changed—drastically. In order to navigate the rules of courtship, follow these tips.
If you've recently split from your partner and are about to dip your toe into the dating pool once again, you may be surprised at how technology has changed it. Texting, online dating, and social networking sites have made old-fashioned dating seem, well, outdated.
A great sex life might seem like one of life's perks for young people. But these days, it’s not uncommon for younger as well as older individuals to suffer from a low libido. Here, common causes and how to address them.
A great sex life might seem like one of life's perks for young people. But these days, it's not uncommon for younger as well as older individuals to suffer from a low libido, says Michael Krychman, MD, executive director of the Southern California Center for Sexual Health and an associate clinical professor at USC Medical School in Los Angeles.
While cancer treatments continue to become more effective and targeted, the number of people diagnosed with cancer is on the rise. Understand the high-level trends and how they could affect you.
Cancer has become a serious personal and public health problem. The mortality rate of cancer has declined over the past several decades due to advances in treatment. At the same time, the number of people diagnosed with cancer is on the rise. While humans have always faced cancer, it's become increasingly prevalent over the past century.
During atrial fibrillation, the heart's two upper chambers beat out of sync with the two lower chambers. Learn about the potential causes and complications of this condition.
If you've ever experienced heart palpitations (a feeling of rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeats), shortness of breath, and weakness, you could have atrial fibrillation, an irregular and often rapid heartbeat that causes poor blood flow to the body.
If you're caught up in a cycle of sleepless nights, there's a drug-free way to get back on track: Make love more often.
If you're caught up in a cycle of sleepless nights, there's a drug-free way to get back on track: Make love more often.
Whenever you read tips for beating insomnia, you probably see the advice to use your bed (and bedroom) only for sleeping and sex.
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves do more than flavor some of your favorite foods. These and others have medicinal properties and are most effective as healers when used on a regular basis. Here's how to get more of them into your diet.
Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves do more than flavor some of your favorite foods. These and other "sweet" spices have medicinal properties and are most effective as healers when used on a regular basis. Here's how to get more of them into your diet.
Cinnamon In addition to treating stomach and intestinal problems such as bloating, gas, and spasms, cinnamon has been found to reduce inflammation and lower cholesterol levels.
Not that you need another reason to trim excess flab, but here it is: Scientists have linked extra pounds in midlife to an increased incidence of Alzheimer's disease later on.
Not that you need another reason to trim excess flab, but here it is: Scientists have linked extra pounds in midlife to an increased incidence of Alzheimer's disease later on. This finding comes on the heels of a previous study that found that modest weight gain during middle age, particularly around the middle, is linked to a higher rate of cardiovascular disease.
If your gray strands bother you or you simply long for a change, hair dye is your best bet. But before you take the plunge in a salon or at home, be sure you're armed with information to help prevent unwelcome surprises.
If your gray strands bother you or you simply long for a change, hair dye is your best bet. But before you take the plunge in a salon or at home, be sure you're armed with information to help prevent unwelcome surprises.
DO start subtle and small. Particularly if this will be a DIY project, start with a minor hue adjustment and consider a temporary or demi-permanent color.
Among the many popular types of yoga offered at studios and gyms, one style might make you break a sweat in a super-hot room, while another might be mellow and cool.
Do you know what you're getting into when you sign up for a yoga class? Among the many popular styles offered in gyms and studios these days, one might make you break a sweat in a super-hot room, while another might be mellow and cool.
The word yoga means to yoke or unify the mind, bod,y and spirit.
Unfortunately, no matter where you plan to travel, your food allergies will always be with you. So don't just plan your vacation itinerary, plan on ways you can stay safe on your trip, too.
Unfortunately, no matter where you plan to travel, your food allergies will always be with you. So don't just plan your vacation itinerary, plan on ways you can stay safe on your trip, too. Whether you're heading to the beach, the countryside, or the mountains, be mindful that you could come on contact with your allergens.
Bruising occurs when small blood vessels called capillaries are broken because of impact. While rarely serious, they can sometimes be a sign of underlying disease.
Have you ever stepped out of the shower, caught a glimpse of yourself in a full-length mirror, and wondered, "How in the world did I get that?" That would be a bruise, shining purply through your skin in all its glory. You don't remember bumping into or hitting anything.
Too little iron in the body can affect many body functions, but most physical signs and symptoms don't show up until iron deficiency anemia occurs.
Iron deficiency anemia is a condition that results from too little iron in the body. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, iron deficiency is the most common nutritional deficiency and the leading cause of anemia in the U.S.
The condition is usually caused by blood loss, diet, or an inability of your body to absorb enough iron from food.
Everyone has life goals and dreams, but many people have no idea how to achieve them. That's where a life coach can help. Life coaches help you create the blueprint to become your best self.
Everyone has life goals and dreams, but many people have no idea how to achieve them. That's where a life coach can help. Life coaches help you create the blueprint to become your best self.
What is a life coach? Life coaches are trained professionals who help clients realize their personal, professional, and physical goals.
Although it's the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD) of all, chances are you've never heard of it.
Though trichomoniasis is the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD) of all, many people haven't ever heard of it. Caused by Trichomonas vaginalis, a microscopic parasite, it can cause no symptoms at all, or it can present with symptoms such as vaginal discharge, vaginal itching, and redness.
From size to style, many factors go into choosing a bra. Follow these guidelines to help you make an informed purchase.
How do you know if you're wearing the right bra? When your breasts feel comfortable, supported, and beautiful. When your bra straps don't dig, roll, or pinch and your band fits without leaving red marks, riding up, or chafing. When there's no "back fat" and your breasts fill the cups without "running over," bulging, or leaving gaps.
If you're the partner of someone who is depressed, it can take a toll on your relationship and your own mental health. Here, a guide to keeping your relationship intact in the face of mental illness.
Suffering from depression is emotionally frustrating. So is living with someone who suffers from depression. Unfortunately, this is more common than you may imagine. In a Reader's Digest survey, 42 percent of respondents said depression was a major challenge in their relationship.
A good meal should boost your energy, not leave you feeling sapped.
A good meal should boost your energy, not leave you feeling sapped. Here's what you can do to avoid post-meal fatigue.
1. Eat light. Heavy meals, especially those rich in carbohydrates, help boost your levels of the brain chemical serotonin, which is responsible for the "tired but content" feeling that often comes after a holiday dinner, but can occur after any big meal.
Whether you work in a controlled setting like an office, spend your days in a laboratory or manufacturing plant, or are outdoors working with animals or plants, there are many allergens that, with repeated exposure, can make you feel quite sick.
Does your workplace do a real job on your health? Your place of employment may expose you to substances that can trigger an array of symptoms.
Whether you work in the controlled setting like an office, spend your days in a laboratory or manufacturing plant, or are outdoors working with animals or plants, there are many allergens that, with repeated exposure, can make you feel quite sick.
The typical smartphone user checks his phone an average of 34 times per day. What’s more, many people who compulsively check their cellphones are unaware that they are doing it.
If you haven't done it yourself, you've certainly seen it: A group of people at a social gathering who, instead of conversing with each other, are pecking away at their cell phones.
While this situation may sound strange, it's actually very common. A recent study in the journal Personal and Ubiquitous Computing found that the typical smartphone user checked their phone an average of 34 times per day.
All couples experience some moments of uncertainty, but if your spouse possesses too many of these 10 traits, he may not be the right man for you.
All couples find each other maddening at times, and it's certainly not uncommon to have occasional disagreements and spats. But if you're miserable more than you're not, and you increasingly find yourself wondering if the guy you're sitting across the table from is the same guy you married once upon a time, it may be time to reassess your future with him.
Unlike other types of muscular back pain, which go away and typically don't come back, menstrual back pain can be a frequent, unwelcome visitor.
Millions of women suffer from menstrual back cramps every month. Unlike other types of muscular back pain, which go away and typically don't come back, menstrual back pain can be a frequent, unwelcome visitor.
Just like menstrual cramps, most menstrual back pain is caused by contractions of the uterus as it releases menstrual fluid.
A healthy dependency is a two-way relationship; both parties contribute to it in positive ways. A codependent relationship, in contrast, is an unhealthy, dysfunctional, perhaps even abusive, one-sided relationship.
We depend on family and friends to fill some of our needs for love, companionship, and security. A healthy dependency is a two-way relationship; both parties contribute to it in positive ways. A codependent relationship, in contrast, is an unhealthy, dysfunctional, perhaps even abusive, one-sided relationship.
Whether you have a newly developed scar or you're trying to stop a wound from turning into a prominent scar, there are ways you can minimize its appearance.
We all have scars, whether they're extremely noticeable or barely visible. Scars can result from simple accidents like getting too close to an iron or from bad habits like picking at pimples. Whether you have a newly developed scar or you're trying to stop a wound from turning into a prominent scar, there are ways you can minimize its appearance.
How do you know if you or a loved one is becoming an unsafe driver? It can be difficult to assess one's driving skills but these factors can help you figure it out.
We've all seen it: The little old man or woman hunched over the steering wheel, squinting ahead while doing 20 miles an hour in a 40 mile an hour zone. And it's not uncommon to hear about accidents caused by elderly drivers who step on the gas pedal instead of the brake.
Here are tips for working through grief in a healthy way when it involves an entire community.
Everyone handles personal grief in an individual way, processing it at a different pace as they struggle to cope. But nationwide grief following a horrific tragedy such as the events of 9/11 is anything but private.
National grief and mourning like what gripped the country after 9/11 is different from grief experienced on a personal scale.
You love your cat with all your heart, but if you suffer from pet allergies, the object of your affection could cause episodes of sneezing, coughing, itching, and wheezing. If the misery is more than you can bear, know that you can take action.
You love your cat with all your heart, but if you suffer from pet allergies, the object of your affection could cause episodes of sneezing, coughing, itching, and wheezing. If the misery is more than you can bear, know that you can take action.
Best Approaches to Treat Cat Allergies
If you won't consider parting with your pet but don't want to suffer indefinitely, that's okay.
Mammograms save lives. Or do they? Breast cancer deaths have declined over the past two decades. Is this due to routine screenings or better treatment techniques?
For years, women have been inundated with messages that early detection of breast cancer saves lives. Yet, there's a substantial body of evidence that this is not the case.
The other side of the mammogram picture
Researchers have found that breast cancer rates increase significantly in countries after women begin undergoing regular mammograms.
The best time to go to bed is the time that ensures you get enough sleep before you have to get up each day to go to work or school or take care of your home life.
Early to bed, early to rise? That's good. Late to bed, late to rise? For some people, that's good too. Your body's best bedtime is the time that works best for you.
The best time to go to bed is the time that ensures you get enough sleep before you have to get up each day to go to work or school or take care of your home life.
There's been much talk about the possibility that wearing high heels could be connected with getting migraines, but is there scientific weight to this claim?
Many women are willing to invest their entire paychecks and suffer a few blisters in order to walk in a much-coveted pair.
There's been much talk recently about the possibility that wearing high heels could be connected with getting migraines—a debilitating headache that causes throbbing pain and sensitivity to sound and light.
The good news is that it's rarely serious, but the bad news is that it can make getting out of bed and going about your day an exercise in fighting nausea and trying to keep your balance.
If the room is spinning and you don't know why, you may have a condition known as BPPV, or Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo. This unpleasant malady strikes many in middle age, and the cause isn't always known. The good news is that it's rarely serious, but the bad news is that it can make getting out of bed and going about your day an exercise in fighting nausea and trying to keep your balance.
Touted as a "living food," wheatgrass juice first became popular when a self-proclaimed "natural healer" began to promote the benefits of consuming green vegetables, herbs, and wild weeds. Since then, wheatgrass has been analyzed, studied, and sold as a health remedy.
Wheatgrass is sold as a juice, a pill, a powder and, in some greenmarkets and natural foods stores, a potted plant. Touted as a "living food," wheatgrass juice first became popular in the 1950's, when a self-proclaimed "natural healer" began to promote the benefits of consuming green vegetables, herbs, and wild weeds.
Krill, tiny shrimp-like crustaceans that live on the bottom of the ocean, are chock full of beneficial oils, including omega-3 fatty acids.
Fish oil is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, but is Krill oil even better? Several studies say "yes."
Krill are tiny shrimp-like crustaceans that live on the bottom of the ocean. They're the primary food source for many species of whale, manta and shark.
Need an excuse to go shopping? How about this one? Recent research suggests it may actually be good for you.
Need an excuse to go shopping? How about this one? Recent research suggests it may actually be good for you.
Taiwanese researchers published a study in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health that states people who shop frequently may live longer than people who don't shop at all or shop infrequently.
For years now, the conventional wisdom has been to drink eight glasses of water a day if you want to maintain good health. But is that really true? According to one doctor, the answer is no.
For years now, the conventional wisdom has been to drink eight glasses of water a day if you want to maintain good health. But is that really true? According to Heinz Valtin, MD, a retired professor of physiology from Dartmouth Medical School, the answer is no.
Also known as "dream sleep," REM (rapid eye movement) is the stage of sleep when your brain processes your thoughts and memories from the day.
Also known as "dream sleep," REM (rapid eye movement) is the stage of sleep when your brain processes your thoughts and memories from the day.
While you are sleeping, your brain moves through a series of sleep cycles that repeat themselves about every hour and a half, or five times, throughout the night.
Cosmetic plastic surgery can achieve remarkable results. However, it can't cure life's problems or bring back youth. If you're considering plastic surgery, ask yourself these questions to make sure you're seeking it for the right reasons.
With more than 1.5 million procedures performed in the U.S. every year, cosmetic plastic surgery can achieve remarkable results—correcting traits that cause embarrassment or pain. However, what it can't do is cure life's problems or bring back youth, and unfortunately some people find themselves disappointed with the results.
You know it does, but do you know how and why smoking is one of the greatest health risks out there? Understanding what's behind the risk might help you or a loved one give them up for good.
There's no question about it: smoking causes cancer. In fact, smoking is responsible for almost 90 percent of all lung cancer deaths, and lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Roughly 22 percent of cancer deaths in women, and 45 percent in men, are directly attributable to personal smoking habits.
Some experts say you'll burn more fat if you exercise on an empty stomach. Others assert your athletic performance will suffer if you don't fuel it with the right food. Who's right?
Which is better: running on full or running on empty? We're talking about the fuel you put in your body. There's a lot of confusion about eating and exercise. Some studies say you'll burn more fat if you exercise on an empty stomach. Others assert your athletic performance will suffer if you don't fuel it with the right food.
If you're newly single, you may be feeling a whole range of emotions, both negative and positive. Still, assessing yourself honestly is an essential step to avoiding future relationship blunders.
If you're newly single, you may be feeling a whole range of emotions, both negative and positive. On the negative side, you may be lonely. On a positive note, you may be relieved that the constant fighting between you and your partner has stopped. You also may be experiencing such emotional overload that you're resistant to the idea of stopping and taking stock of where you are--and where you're going.
The variety of hearing aids can be overwhelming, and you may not be sure where to start. Fortunately, the Food and Drug Administration has created an online guide to help you make an informed decision.
If you're one of the 35 million Americans with some degree of hearing loss, you may be considering getting a hearing aid. But the variety of hearing aids can be overwhelming, and you may not be sure where to start. Fortunately, the Food and Drug Administration has created an online guide to help you make an informed decision.
Learn about the most common causes, plus get tips on how to fix this common problem.
If you frequently get that "zing" feeling while biting into something sweet, cold, hot, or sour, you could have sensitive teeth. Although it can quite comfortable, it's pretty common—and there are some easy fixes.
What causes tooth sensitivity in the first place? Common triggers include a cavity or crack in the tooth, but it might also be due to the erosion of tooth enamel.
Pizza? Drinks? TV? Your favorite indulgences can be made heart healthy, if you do them right.
Making sure you get your daily dose of nutritious foods and plenty of exercise is crucial to maintaining a healthy heart, but that doesn't mean you have to completely cut yourself off from your favorite indulgences.
Here are three ways you can stay heart-healthy without feeling deprived.
Here's how not to care for your skin. Taking heed of these seven common blunders will help renew your complexion and possibly even save your life.
From time to time, it's possible to miss the mark and slip into a bad habit. And although eating the occasional burger, skipping a week of exercise, or forgetting to wash your face one day won't hurt you, continually committing these offenses can become harmful.
Researchers from the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California have proposed a new formula for measuring body fat using hip circumference and height. This formula is known as body adiposity index, or BAI.
The more body fat you have, the higher your chances of developing chronic health problems. Now there's a new way to measure your risk.
If you are overweight, you are actually "overfat." You are carrying around too much body fat. The body mass index (BMI) is a formula based on height and weight that is used by health professionals and fitness experts to calculate body fat.
The cool, crisp days of autumn can be a refreshing treat after a hot, humid summer. Yet with the change of season also comes an increased risk of illness that can lead to fall asthma.
The cool, crisp days of autumn can be a refreshing treat after a hot, humid summer. Yet with the change of season also comes an increased risk of illness that can lead to fall asthma.
It's no coincidence that many asthmatics visit the emergency room in the fall and early winter.
As if bloating, cramping, breast pain, and mood swings weren't enough, the long list of symptoms that can affect women with premenstrual syndrome also includes trouble falling asleep. Here's what to do if it happens to you.
As if bloating, cramping, breast pain, and mood swings weren't enough, the long list of symptoms that can affect women with premenstrual syndrome also includes trouble falling asleep. Here's what to do if it happens to you.
Not all women suffer from premenstrual syndrome (PMS), but if you're one of them, you certainly know it.
If your sex life feels limp and lackluster these days, resolve to spice it up. No, not with dietary supplements or prescription pills, but by exercising with a purpose.
If your sex life feels limp and lackluster these days, resolve to spice it up. No, not with dietary supplements or prescription pills, but by exercising with a purpose. Certain exercises can help rev-up your performance and level of satisfaction, experts say.
While over-the-counter pain relievers are convenient and readily available, they still come with certain risks.
Aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen and naproxen are readily available on your grocery and drug store shelves. No prescription is needed. Pop a couple and your pain, fever or headache disappear. While these common over-the-ounter (OTC) medications are generally safe, they're still powerful chemicals.
If you're craving sugar, the problem may be more serious than merely trying to satisfy an occasional sweet tooth. You may be addicted to sugar.
If you're craving sugar, the problem may be more serious than merely trying to satisfy an occasional sweet tooth. You may be addicted to sugar.
Researchers at Princeton University conducted several laboratory studies on rats and found that when the rats were given too much sugar, they suffered from withdrawal.
It's normal to feel tired after a workout. Mild muscle ache is common, too. But what if you're completely exhausted?
It's normal to feel tired after a workout. Mild muscle ache is common, too. But what if you're completely exhausted? Post-workout fatigue that persists after you cool down or interferes with your lifestyle is not normal.
Vigorous exercise is a healthy challenge for every body.
Many women incorporate blush into their daily makeup routine to accentuate their cheekbones with a rosy-red look. But for the millions of people living with the skin condition rosacea, unintentional blushing and flushing can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing problem.
Many women incorporate blush into their daily makeup routine to accentuate their cheekbones with a rosy-red look. But for the millions of people living with the skin condition rosacea, unintentional blushing and flushing can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing problem.
Actors may appear sultry and glamorous when lighting up on-screen, but in real life, the tobacco habit can downgrade you from hot to "not." Here's a rundown of just some of the ways smoking is a blight on beauty.
It's been well-documented that smoking ruins your health, affecting everything from your lungs to your taste buds to your heart. A persistent smoking habit might even kill you. But did you know that puffing on cigarettes can also wreak havoc on your looks? Actors may appear sultry and glamorous when lighting up on-screen, but in real life, the tobacco habit can downgrade you from hot to "not.
A number of possible factors can make you more susceptible to having an asthma attack at night. Read on to find out what they are and what you can do about them.
If you battle your worst asthma symptoms at night and wake up many mornings still feeling tired and out of sorts, you could have nocturnal asthma. As the name implies, this is when asthma strikes at night causing shortness of breath, coughing, wheezing, and/or chest pressure.
Genetically modified (GM) or engineered, foods have been scientifically altered to develop more desirable traits. These traits might include better resistance to destructive insects in the field, or increased nutritional value.
You have the right to know what's in the food products you buy, but you can't know if it's not on the label.
Genetically modified (GM) or engineered, foods have been scientifically altered to develop more desirable traits. These traits might include better resistance to destructive insects in the field, or increased nutritional value.
Digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) disorders are common occurrences among those over the age of 50. Take inventory of the digestive symptoms you may have and measure them against these potential digestive conditions.
Digestive or gastrointestinal (GI) disorders can cause a variety of stomachaches and are common occurrences—especially among those over the age of 50.
Although the GI system usually does its job without any glitches, as you get older, the risk for digestive disorders that affect the stomach and small or large intestine can increase.
While acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic garner most of the attention, Reiki quietly benefits patients in its own gentle way.
Complementary and alternative healing practices are becoming mainstream as people search for ways to support health naturally. While acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic garner most of the attention, Reiki quietly benefits patients in its own gentle way.
Hula-hooping isn't just for kids anymore. Fitness experts say it can provide boot camp-quality exercise.
Wish you could play like a child again? Then hula-hooping might be the perfect workout for you. It's not just kids' stuff, though. Hula-hooping provides boot camp-quality exercise.
Hula-hoops have been popular since they were invented in the 1950s.
Are you hyper-focused on one particular person? Can't resist calling him several times a day? Do you analyze his every action? If you've answered "yes," you may have one-itis.
If you're hyperfocused on one particular person, cannot resist calling him several times a day, and analyze his every action, you may have one-itis. If this sounds like you, you may have one-itis, and it's worth curing.
"When someone is so focused on another person, it's obvious that she is trying to compensate for, or make up for, not feeling whole herself," says Karin Anderson, Ph.
Set an alarm. Use a fancy glass. Hang a sign on your fridge. These are just a few ways to ensure you get your daily dose of H20.
If there is one magical elixir that can help promote good health, it's water. Here's how to make sure you get enough each day.
1. Set goals. For instance, first thing in the morning, fill a large pitcher with 8 cups of water and set a goal to finish it by the end of the day.
More than a snuggle buddy, a body-length pillow can improve your bedtime posture and help you get a better night's sleep by relieving common aches and pains that are keeping you awake.
Have you hugged your pillow lately? More than a snuggle buddy, a body-length pillow can improve your bedtime posture and help you get a better night's sleep by relieving common aches and pains that are keeping you awake.
If you're pregnant, or suffer from arthritis, back pain, or sore muscles resulting from an injury or pain after surgery, a full-length body pillow can provide support to your entire body and help keep your spine aligned while you sleep.
That red, painful-to-the-touch burn on your overly sun-exposed skin can be a big problem. You thought you did everything you could to prevent sunburn, but apparently it wasn't enough. The good news is that it's temporary and treatable.
That red, painful-to-the-touch burn on your overly sun-exposed skin can be a big problem—especially if you're an avid beach-goer or a lover of the outdoors. You thought you did everything you could to prevent sunburn, but apparently it wasn't enough.
Sure, there may be a laundry list of activities that make you happy, but when it comes to reconnecting with your partner, these are key (and the reason is chemical).
You smooch your pooch, cuddle with your baby, and engage in all manner of close physical contact with your partner. And afterwards, no matter how stressful and exhausting your day was, you find yourself feeling lighter and more relaxed.
Well, there's a reason cuddling and other forms of physical touch have a positive effect on you.
During the Great Depression, suicide rates hit their highest level ever, increasing almost 23 percent over the four years of the depression. Since then, suicide rates have consistently risen during times of economic downturns.
During the Great Depression, suicide rates hit their highest level ever, increasing almost 23 percent over the four years of the depression (1929 to 1933). Since then, suicide rates have consistently risen during times of economic downturns.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recently released a study, Impact of Business Cycles on the U.
In recent study, people who took a specific type of osteoporosis medication known as bisphosphonates lived an average of five years longer than those who didn't take them.
The pros and cons of bisphosphonate medications for osteoporosis have been in the news a lot lately. A new study adds a point to the "pro" column.
In a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, people who took a specific type of osteoporosis medication known as bisphosphonates lived an average of five years longer than those who didn't take them.
BPA is used in the production of some hard plastics and the plastic-like linings of many metal cans used to package foods and beverages. Since BPA leaches out of the plastic and into the contents of the can when exposed to heat, there is wide concern about its toxic effect.
Although canned foods rarely make it to any "top ten" list of great-tasting or especially nutritious foods, the only real concern has ever been the loss of certain nutrients during the canning process and over time. All that changed when toxic chemicals were found in the food.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can debilitate your skin, self-esteem, and overall health. What's worse is that it can lead to more serious health complications. Learn about how to detect, treat, and cope with this disease.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that can debilitate your skin, self-esteem, and overall health. An estimated two million people have this disease and don't even know it. What's worse is that it can lead to more serious health complications. Learn about how to detect, treat, and cope with this disease.
If urges to go to the bathroom when exercising are keeping you from getting a good workout, here are some tips to keep in mind.
There's nothing better you can do for your health than to get moving. Exercise revs the whole body up, including your digestive and urinary tract. If urges to go to the bathroom when exercising are keeping you from getting a good workout, here are some tips to keep in mind.
Every day, people die waiting for organ transplants. Whether they need a new heart, lung, liver, or kidney, these patients know their lives depend on the availability of healthy organs.
Every day, people die waiting for organ transplants. Whether they need a new heart, lung, liver, or kidney, these patients know their lives depend on the availability of healthy organs. Unfortunately, there are never enough organs to meet the needs of the sick.
A simple spinal tap may be the key to identifying those who are heading toward Alzheimer's disease.
What if we could identify Alzheimer's patients even before they started forgetting words, getting lost in familiar places, and not recognizing friends and loved ones? Would we be able to prevent the disease from progressing or even occurring? That scenario is looking more and more likely, according to scientists, who are busy testing hundreds of new Alzheimer's drugs.
Fatigue is one of lupus’ hallmark symptoms, but because the damage caused by Lupus is largely unseen, patients may be confused about why they’re so tired. Read on for five tips for tackling fatigue caused by Lupus.
Fatigue is one of lupus’ hallmark symptoms, but because the damage caused by lupus is largely unseen, patients may be confused about why they’re so tired.
What is Lupus?
Lupus is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects various parts of the body, especially the skin, joints, blood, and kidneys.
Resolving conflicts doesn't have to be difficult. In fact, you can make the process easy on the both of you by following these ten tips.
You and your partner are becoming seasoned experts at sniping, bickering, and arguing. And yet all too often, you're no closer to resolving your differences even after hours of butting heads.
It's possible to resolve things in a less stressful way, experts say, when both partners are willing to work things out - and to learn the art of compromise.
There are you, peacefully dozing off, and then, whoa! Your body does a sudden jerk and you're awake again. For the most part, these body spasms are considered normal. But sometimes they're not.
There are you, peacefully dozing off, and then, whoa! Your body does a sudden jerk and you're awake again. For the most part, these body spasms are considered normal. But sometimes they're not. Hypnic jerks, or sleep starts, are normal leg, arm, or full-body twitches that occur just as you're about to fall asleep.
If you find yourself munching on the same old lettuce and tomatoes day in and day out, maybe it's time for a salad makeover.
If you find yourself munching on the same old lettuce and tomatoes day in and day out, maybe it's time for a makeover. Here are 10 tips for building a better salad: 1. Mix up your greens. There's nothing wrong with lettuce, but with so many varieties of salad-ready greens available, why be boring? Toss together a combination of Swiss chard, baby spinach, radicchio, arugula, and/or watercress and discover the sweet, bitter, and peppery differences in flavor.
Giving blood is straightforward, safe, and infinitely helpful to those in need. So if you want to join the effort, here are six steps you can take to ensure the process is as easy as possible.
Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood, according to the American Red Cross. What's more, nearly 38,000 blood donations are needed every day. Needless to say, the demand for blood is high.
But blood donations are very popular among many Americans.
Do you think of allergies as an equal opportunity disease? If so, you might be surprised to know when it comes to immune system reactions to certain foods and drinks, there seems to be a strong sex difference.
Do you think of allergies as an equal opportunity disease? If so, you might be surprised to know that there seems to be a strong sex difference—at least when it comes to immune system reactions to certain foods and drinks.
Food Allergy Symptoms in Women
When it comes to allergies and sex, women are more likely to suffer from food allergies than men—although researchers aren't sure exactly how or why such differences exist.
You've heard they do. You've heard they don't. So, what are the experts saying about the real risk?
Cell phones have become ubiquitous worldwide, even in developing countries, so the very thought they might cause harm is hard to believe. While the data on a possible link between cell phone use and cancer has been inconsistent-and definitely controversial-the evidence is finally starting to accumulate.
There's always something to eat at the airport, especially if you're at one of the larger "hub" airports. Unfortunately, where there are more food vendors, there are more opportunities for unhealthy options and food safety violations.
Eating at airports, especially when you're in a hurry, is pretty much the nutritional equivalent of eating at a truck stop. But the problem is not just finding and choosing healthier foods or piecing together something that resembles a balanced meal. It's also about finding food that's safe to eat.
Approximately 3.4 million Americans are stalked every year; women three times more often than men. Here are the steps to take if you become a target.
Approximately 3.4 million Americans are stalked every year; women three times more often than men. Forty percent of them will be victims of violence or crime. Who's at risk? Almost anyone. That's why protecting yourself from becoming a stalker's target is so important.
If your libido seems to be waning and you're just not as interested in sex as you used to be, you may have wondered whether you should try to get help. Moreover, you may be concerned about from where that help will come.
If your libido seems to be waning and you're just not as interested in sex as you used to be, you may have wondered whether you should try to get help. Moreover, you may be concerned about from where that help will come.
Natural supplements may be worth considering, some health experts say.
Over the last few years, some hair salons and barbers have been dispensing more than just trims. They've been giving out health advice, too.
In some communities, particularly where many African-Americans live, the local salon or barber shop is a cultural institution. Men and women alike visit these social hubs on a regular basis not only to get their hair done but to connect with friends and neighbors in a familiar, comforting environment where they can talk, share, vent, and just be themselves.
You may have considered participating in a clinical trial. But are you a good candidate? And what's in it for you?
Reading about the latest miracle medication to hit the market after success in clinical trials, you may have wondered who are these people who offer themselves up to science? You may even have considered participating in a clinical trial yourself. But are you a good candidate? And what's in it for you?
Advantages
1.
Tempted to sleep out in a hammock on a warm summer night? Or take a hammock nap in the late afternoon? It may turn out to be the best sleep you ever got.
Tempted to sleep out in a hammock on a warm summer night? Or take a hammock nap in the late afternoon? It may turn out to be the best sleep you ever got.
If you're a parent, you know that rocking a baby is the best way to get him to sleep. If you have a grandmother, you may have seen how quickly she falls asleep in a rocking chair.
You can take a vacation from day-to-day living without forfeiting daily exercise and healthy eating. These practical tips will help you stave off the extra pounds without needing to give up festive foods and unforgettable fun.
The purpose of going on vacation is simple—to take a break from the rigors of day-to-day living. However, we also tend to take a break from daily exercise and healthy eating as we launch into local cuisine with little, if any, mind to the damage it's doing to our diets.
What is it about these rays that makes them so harmful? And how can you tell if you're taking the proper safety precautions?
We all require some sun exposure. In fact, it's the body's primary source of vitamin D. But the problem lies in repeated, unprotected exposure to the sun's ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. What is it about these rays, though, that makes them so harmful? And how can you tell if you're taking the proper safety precautions?
UVA Rays: Think "A" for Aging
UVA wavelengths deeply penetrate the dermis and subcutaneous layers of your skin.
Whole or separated, in recipes or on their own, eggs are an important part of most people's diets. But if you're concerned about heart disease, shouldn't you worry about the fat and cholesterol in eggs? Not when you know which parts of the egg to use, and when to use them.
Whole or separated, in recipes or on their own, eggs are an important part of most people's diets. But if you're concerned about heart disease, shouldn't you worry about the fat and cholesterol in eggs? Not if you know which parts of the egg to use, and when to use them.
The MSLT helps confirm a diagnosis of narcolepsy, a condition in which a person suddenly loses muscle control and falls asleep, or idiopathic hypersomnia, which is excess or inappropriate daytime sleepiness without an apparent cause.
Most sleep studies are performed overnight so your doctor can monitor your sleep patterns and behavior. But you may also benefit from another test that assesses just how sleepy you are during daytime hours.
The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) looks at how overtired you are during the day.
Hypersomnia is a word used to describe excessive sleepiness at times when you should actually be feeling well rested. If you consistently feel drowsy in spite of a good night's sleep, there are several possible causes and many potential treatments.
Hypersomnia is a word used to describe excessive sleepiness at times when you should actually be feeling well rested. If you consistently feel drowsy in spite of a good night's sleep, there are several possible causes and many potential treatments.
It makes sense to feel tired and feel the need for a nap if you didn't sleep well or at all the night before.
Some physicians call ovarian cancer the silent killer because of its vague, non-specific symptoms. So on the surface, it sounds like regular screening would save lives. But it's not that simple.
When detected early, oncologists can treat most cancers successfully and patients generally have a good long-term prognosis. However, women do not usually learn they have ovarian cancer until it has reached stage III or IV and treatment is often ineffective.
Volunteering can be one of the most enriching and satisfying experiences of your life. Here's how to get started.
A popular option for people young and old is to volunteer. Not only are you doing something good for the community, volunteering has been shown to be good for your mental and physical health. But perhaps you've never offered your time and skills before and aren't sure what to expect.
New research suggests you can lose weight—and keep it off—just by spending a week in the mountains.
Weight loss is a natural phenomenon for anyone who travels from sea level to extreme altitudes. The amount of weight lost depends on how high you go and how long you stay, and has always been thought to be temporary. In addition, high-altitude weight loss has always been associated with active people who spend time hiking and skiing in mountainous areas.
Have you thought about how your digestive system actually converts the meals you eat into fuel? Here's a quick survey of how your organs break down nutrients to keep your body in motion.
Have you ever thought about how your digestive system—a complex network of hollow organs and long, twisting tubes—actually converts your meals into fuel to keep your body functioning well? Here's a quick survey of how your organs break down nutrients, including carbohydrates, protein, fats, and vitamins, to keep your body in motion.
Try these creative ways to exercise that are good for your body and easy on your wallet.
Don't let high gym prices keep you from getting into the best shape of your life. We've got five great exercise idea that work your body hard, but go easy on your wallet.
The key to designing a great workout is to focus on the three pillars of fitness: cardio, strength, and flexibility.
While an occasional increase in blood pressure above your average reading is not usually a cause for alarm, over time, if those spikes in your blood pressure occur frequently enough, say every day, they can cause damage to your blood vessels, heart, and kidneys the same way having chronically high blood pressure can.
Blood pressure follows a normal daily pattern. It's usually lower at night while you're asleep and when you first wake up than it is during the day.
But episodes of anxiety, for example, a visit to your doctor's office for a checkup, can cause your blood pressure to spike, often called white-coat hypertension.
For a growing number of families (couples and singles, too), personal chefs are becoming as common and indispensable as housekeepers. They're the answer to "What's for dinner?"
The benefits of sitting down to a home-cooked meal with family are well established: Better nutrition, closer bonding, and even better behavior and school performance. The challenge is how to get it on the table while juggling work and kids' schedules.
If you're looking for a "healthy" beer, unfortunately, you won't find one. But that doesn't mean you should skip out entirely. If you choose to indulge in a beer, make the best choice for your health.
If you’re looking for a “healthy” beer, unfortunately, you won’t find one.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), one of the best ways to avoiding weight gain is to consume a variety of nutrient-dense foods. Nutrient-dense foods have a high micro-nutrient (vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, etc.
Keeping safe from toxic chemicals is no easy task these days. Here are practical steps you can take to minimize exposure.
Keeping children safe from toxic chemicals is no easy task these days.
The current offender: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic chemical used to make plastic clear and hard. It also keeps bacteria from contaminating foods and prevents cans from rusting.
Drinking plenty of water is among the best things you can do for your health. Switching from a disposable water bottle to a reusable one is among the best things you can do for the planet.
Drinking plenty of water is among the best things you can do for your health. Switching from a disposable to reusable water bottle is among the best things you can do for the planet. How do you choose the best water bottle? Check out our tips before you go shopping.
This nutrient-powerhouse can aid an assortment of digestive woes, and there are many ways you can enjoy it. Whether you cook it, eat it raw, or put it in a smoothie, incorporate papaya into your healthy digestion plan.
Papaya is a super food that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, potassium, magnesium, and fiber.
Additionally, this tropical fruit contains papain, a proteolytic enzyme that helps promote digestion. In fact, in laboratory studies, papaya extract was shown to alleviate induced gastric ulcers in rats, leading researchers to believe that the fruit may be useful in treating gastric ulcers in humans.
It's a common stereotype that a person who's had too much Botox can't form normal facial expressions as a result of the paralyzing injections. But according to a new study, the reality could be even scarier.
It's a common stereotype that a person who's had too much Botox® can't form normal facial expressions as a result of the paralyzing injections. But according to a new study, the reality could be even scarier—Botox® may lessen a person's ability to understand the feelings of others.
Have you ever grappled with the unexpected side effects from a medication? It's important to pinpoint the cause of these surprising reactions. Here's the right way to know if it's a true drug allergy.
When you end up grappling with unexpected side effects from your medication, such as a rash, nausea, or stomach distress, you might think you're allergic to the drug. However, most of the time, the reaction is caused by a drug sensitivity and not a true allergy.
We all know what pressure feels like. But when it comes to making a long-term commitment, are you prepared to overcome cold feet?
Many people know what it feels like to have "cold feet." You may experience pressure in your chest, butterflies in your stomach, confusion in your heart—and ambivalence about just what the future holds. All the uncertainty can be unnerving, to say the least.
If the thought of your elderly loved one falling and not being able to get help is a real concern, it may be time to invest in a personal medical-alert system.
If the thought of your elderly loved one falling and not being able to get help is a real concern, it may be time to invest in a personal medical-alert system. Also known as emergency-alert systems, or medical-alarm systems, these let someone in trouble send out an alarm to a monitoring center, 911, or other emergency-assistance provider such as a family member at the touch of a button.
Numerous studies have linked the consumption of red meat (beef, port, and lamb) and processed meats to an increased risk for a wide range of cancers.
Backyard barbeques are the quintessential American summertime activity. They're a great way to spend time with family and friends and enjoy fresh, seasonal food cooked outdoors. However, it pays to be cautious when grilling meat. Scientists have linked barbequed meat to an increased risk of developing cancer.
Can waiting until after you tie the knot mean better sex in the long-term?
Waiting until after the wedding to have sex—and being in a monogamous long term relationship—has definite benefits. One is that your risk of contracting a sexually transmitted disease is lower than if you had many partners. Another is not having to worry about an unwanted pregnancy.
When you apply sunscreens that say "broad spectrum," "sweat-resistant," or "SPF 100," are you truly getting the protection you paid for? These new sunscreen regulations can help you make the right choice to protect yourself.
Broad-spectrum. Sweat-resistant. Sunblock. SPF 100. What do all of these terms really mean?
Recently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stepped up to clearly define what makes an effective sunscreen. And manufacturers are being held accountable to these new standards.
Taking an active role in your treatment is essential to receiving the care you need and deserve. Here's how you can guarantee a quality doctor's visit every time you enter the office.
Taking an active role in your treatment is essential to receiving the care you need and deserve. Julie Silver, M.D., Associate Professor at Harvard Medical School and author of What Helped Me Get Through: Cancer Survivors Share Wisdom and Hope and After Cancer Treatment: Heal Faster, Stronger, Better weighs in on how you can guarantee a quality doctor's visit every time you enter the office.
Whether traveling on business or vacationing with family or friends, looking your best will likely be on your itinerary. But packing your favorite skin and hair care products can be complicated.
Whether traveling on business, vacationing with the family or friends, looking your best will likely be on your itinerary. But packing your favorite skin and hair care products can be complicated. Thanks to security threats courtesy of Al Qaeda and other terrorist groups, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA)-as well as individual airlines-has imposed restrictions aimed at keeping travelers safe.
Although dietary fiber is probably best known as a remedy to prevent or relieve constipation, it provides other important health benefits as well, including lowering your risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Although dietary fiber is probably best known as a remedy to prevent or relieve constipation, it also provides other important health benefits as well, including lowering your risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Dietary fiber includes all parts of plant foods that your body can't digest or absorb.
The number of people affected by severe allergies has been on the rise recently, and the experts say that global warming could be to blame.
The number of people affected by severe allergies has been on the rise recently, and the experts say that global warming could be to blame for the worsening allergies.
The Effect of Climate Change on Allergies
Global climate changes have led to an earlier onset of spring weather over the past few years.
Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the U.S. Did you know there are four steps you can take to reduce your risk of heart disease by up to 82 percent?
Although breast cancer is the disease women fear most, according to a study by the Society for Women's Health Research, heart disease is actually the number one killer of women—approximately 500,000 women die annually from heart disease—far surpassing the death rate of breast cancer, about 41,000 each year.
Thinking about signing up to be a bone marrow donor? Here's what's involved in this selfless act.
For cancer patients, a bone-marrow transplant can a life-saving procedure. For the lucky some, a close relative turns out to be a perfect match. The rest need to turn elsewhere to find a bone-marrow donor, a task that may not be easy. You can help simply by signing up to be a marrow donor through a national registry.
Environmentally-conscious beauty is a growing trend that's inspiring many beauty salon owners and customers to embrace eco-friendly products and services. But what does "natural beauty" really mean?
We all know going green is good for the planet, but could it also be the key to personal health and beauty? Environmentally-conscious beauty is a growing trend that's inspiring many beauty salon owners and customers to embrace eco-friendly products and services.
A satisfying relationship with a special someone doesn't happen overnight. If you're looking for love, you may wonder why it's just not happening. You may find the process much easier if you learn to love yourself first.
A satisfying relationship with a special someone doesn't happen overnight. If you're looking for love, you may wonder why it's just not happening. You may find the process much easier if you learn to love yourself first, experts say.
"If you don't put yourself first, then you are denying your abilities to the world around you," says Carolyn Bates, a certified personal life coach, or ICF.
Every morning you brush your teeth, take a shower, and apply deodorants, creams, makeup, and other personal care products. Did you know, however, that many of these products are a major source of human exposure to dangerous chemicals?
Every morning you brush your teeth, take a shower, and apply deodorants, creams, makeup, and other personal care products. Did you know, however, that many of these products are a major source of human exposure to dangerous chemicals?
According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit that conducts independent research to expose health and environmental threats, the average consumer uses 10 personal care products daily that contain about 126 distinct ingredients.
To make the most of your restaurant experience while making sure you're not undoing a week's worth of exercise, follow these tips.
Let's face it. Dining out is wonderful. A server is there to cater to your every whim. You're provided with a delicious meal with all the upside and none of the work.
What's more, you're given options: healthy and otherwise. Do you opt for the grilled chicken with asparagus and winter squash mash? Or do you go with the risotto cakes and polenta? While you may think you've chosen the healthier chicken dish, studies find that this isn't the case.
Work in the United States has become a 24-hour phenomenon. Working irregular hours may also lead to a condition characterized by insomnia, excessive sleepiness during work, difficulties concentrating, headaches, and lack of energy.
Work in the United States has become a 24-hour phenomenon. Many workers, such as healthcare providers, must be available at all hours, and increasingly, companies are adding shifts to accommodate customers and vendors in different time zones.
Non-standard work schedules, which includes evenings, nights, weekends, and shift work are common.
Most of us have some kind of birthmark, whether it's a tiny spot no one ever sees or a prominent port-wine stain. But very few of us know the facts about these marks and if they carry any associated risks. Here are some birthmark FAQs and clarifications of common misconceptions.
Most of us have some kind of birthmark, whether it's a tiny spot no one ever sees or a prominent port-wine stain. But very few of us know the facts about these marks and if they carry any associated risks. Here are some birthmark FAQs and clarifications of common misconceptions.
To some degree, we all experience such foggy moments, especially as we get older. But when should it be cause for concern?
You've done it again: lost your car keys somewhere in your house, or forgotten the name of a neighborhood acquaintance, or opened the refrigerator without having the slightest idea of what you were hoping to find. Everyone of a certain age has these so-called "senior moments," and many people make jokes about them to excuse their own forgetfulness.
When you survey your handbag makeup bag, is it stuffed to the brim with products you hardly ever use or is it skimpy, barely filled leaving you missing the products you actually need?
When you survey your handbag makeup bag, is it stuffed to the brim with products you hardly ever use or is it skimpy, barely filled leaving you missing the products you actually need?
Organize your makeup with these five essentials to keep you looking fresh all day.
Should you throw out a container of yogurt if you notice that the date on the package is a few days beyond the date you're planning on eating it? Well, it all depends on these factors.
You take a container of yogurt from your refrigerator and notice that the date on the package is a few days beyond the date you're planning on eating it. Should you throw it out? Well, it all depends on the type of date stamped on the container and how well the product was handled, according to the USDA Food Safety and Inspection Service.
Don't let asthma get in the way of your daily activities. There are multiple asthma treatment methods available by prescription that are worth considering.
Don't let asthma get in the way of your daily activities. There are multiple asthma treatment methods available by prescription that are worth considering.
Some of the most common approaches to managing asthma include asthma inhalers that contain fast-acting relief medication to open up your airways, inhaled steroids for long-term control of your respiratory functioning, and allergy control medications to manage your immune system response to various triggers that set off asthma symptoms.
Your breasts put up with a lot. It's only natural that once in a while, they'll react. So, what can you do about strange but common occurrences such as rashes, pimples, moles, and ingrown hairs?
Your breasts put up with a lot. It's only natural that once in a while, they'll react. So, what can you do about strange but common occurrences such as rashes, pimples, moles, and ingrown hairs?
Women are trained to worry about lumps, bumps, puckers, and other signs of breast cancer.
Giving a little bit of your self can make an enormous difference in the life of a sick child. Here are some ideas to get you started.
Volunteering can be powerful. If you're open to it, you'll wind up learning new skills, making new friends, and even changing lives—yours as well as someone else's.
Here are some ideas to get you started.
Volunteer Your Time
If you love babies and have time to give, hospitals with neonatal intensive care units (NICU) are often in need of "cuddlers.
The Hospice Foundation of America estimates that there are more than 460,000 hospice volunteers in the U.S. Here's what you need to know before taking on this important job.
If you want to make a difference to a terminally ill person and her family, consider becoming a hospice volunteer. You'll be in good company: The Hospice Foundation of America estimates that there are more than 460,000 hospice volunteers in the U.S. But what exactly do you do as a hospice volunteer? And do you need any special qualifications? Here's what you need to know before taking on this important job.
Why is the barefoot running movement gaining popularity? Is it simply a fad popularized by a few outspoken naturalists? Or is there science that backs a more natural approach to running?
It's safe to say that resorting to the primitive practices of our prehistoric ancestors is typically viewed as a bad thing. We evolved, discovered, and invented our way into a life in which we are no longer dependent on the hunt to bring us food, nor do we fear being stalked by predators.
Since 1992, up to 10 million worldwide have had breast implants. Now there's concern about whether implants lead to increased risk of lymphoma. Here are the facts you need.
You may have heard news reports that breast implants cause lymphoma, and if you have implants, you might be concerned. The short answer is, you needn't be.
Breast Implants and Cancer Risk
Since 1992, up to two million women in the U.S. and up to 10 million worldwide have had breast implants, either for cosmetic reasons or following breast cancer surgery.
Working up a sweat is good for you, but what if you're not one to perspire during exercise? Can you still consider it to be an effective workout? Here's the answer.
Working up a sweat is good for you, but what if you're not one to perspire during exercise? Can you still consider it to be an effective workout? The answer is "yes!"
Most people sweat more during a high-intensity workout than a gentle stroll in the park.
One research team studied older people on the small Greek island of Ikaria, a place where fully one-third of residents live to at least 90, and found that the residents share many healthful habits.
Now that your working life is behind you, it's time to pay attention to the rest of your life. You've got extra time now, and you want to make the most of it. Whether you've dedicated yourself to living healthily all these years or put your health on the back burner, it's never too late to form good habits.
Here's what researchers know about this mysterious chemical messenger that appears to have such a profound and direct effect on one's ability to lose weight.
Your stomach produces a hormone called ghrelin, which stimulates your appetite and encourages you to eat. That's a good thing for some people, not so good for others. Here's what researchers know about this mysterious chemical messenger that appears to have such a profound and direct effect on one's ability to lose weight.
Although many experts encourage exercise earlier in the day to help you fall asleep easier at night, those in the know say that an evening workout might just work out for you.
Exercising before bed: Will it keep you up or put you to sleep? Although many experts encourage exercise earlier in the day to help you fall asleep easier at night, those in the know say that an evening workout might just work out for you.
Overall, exercise has been proven to improve sleep quality in people who have insomnia as well as those who don't have serious sleep problems.
Follow these tips to improve communication with your partner and do away with the criticizing, berating, and belittling you've become accustomed to.
You love your partner, and can't quite imagine life without him. Yet when the two of you are together, it's all too easy to fall into the pattern of criticizing, berating, and belittling, with each of you feeling wronged by the other. No wonder it sometimes feels like the two of you are oceans apart when it comes to intimacy.
Wish there was a magic formula that could make your allergies go away? While no medication can completely erase your immune system's response to allergens, a form of treatment called sublingual immunotherapy may provide some welcome relief.
Wish there was a magic formula that could make your allergies go away? While no medication can completely erase your immune system's response to allergens, a form of treatment called sublingual immunotherapy may provide some welcome relief.
Sublingual immunotherapy is available as tablets or drops that you place under your tongue to build up your body's tolerance to allergens.
Color counts. For instance, red is an intense color that some people associate with passion and eroticism, but color experts point out it can also evoke feelings of anger and aggression.
If you are sensitive to your environment, the color of your curtains, your rug, your bedding and the walls that surround you can influence how you feel when you're trying to relax before falling asleep.
The psychological effects of color have not been studied extensively and the results of those studies performed have not always been consistent.
What and how you eat could be hazardous to your health.
When Canadian physician Kevin Patterson worked as doctor at the Canadian Combat Surgical Hospital in Kandahar, Afghanistan, he came to realize that the Afghans he treated had very different body types from the Canadians he typically cared for back in his homeland.
Omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids confer a variety of health benefits when consumed on a regular basis and in the right amounts.
Three-six-nine, the goose drank wine... or was it fish oil? If it was fish oil, or certain vegetable oils, that would be one healthy goose because the omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids found in these oils confer a variety of medical benefits when they are consumed on a regular basis and in the right amounts.
The weather's not all that heats up in the summer. This can also be the season of love, whether you're single and looking for a relationship or in a committed partnership.
The weather's not all that heats up in the summer. This can also be the season of love, whether you're single and looking for a relationship or in a committed partnership.
"Summer's a great time to develop a new relationship or to spice up the one that you already have," says Terri Orbuch, Ph.
What exactly causes pulmonary embolism, and is there a way to lower your risk? Read on for some insight into this frightening malady.
Pulmonary embolism is a frightening condition that often comes on suddenly. You can go from feeling fine one moment to coughing and gasping for breath the next. And it can happen to anyone, although certain people are more prone to it than others. What exactly causes pulmonary embolism, and is there a way to lower your risk? Read on for some insight into this frightening malady:
What is pulmonary embolism? Pulmonary embolism results from a blockage in an artery that feeds the lungs.
What could be more convenient for lunch on the go than a quick stop at the salad bar? But the choices you make can make the difference between a fat-laden, calorie-heavy meal and a satisfying, good-for-your-heart lunch.
In these busy times, grabbing a quick meal from the salad bar of your local deli or fast-food restaurant chain may not only help you shave off precious minutes from your busy day, it may also provide all the ingredients you need for a healthy heart-if you know what to choose.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has unveiled a new icon that it hopes will make choosing nutritious foods easier for Americans.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture has unveiled a new icon that it hopes will make choosing healthful foods easier for all Americans. The icon, which replaces the old food pyramid, is a colorful graphic image of a plate divided into separate sections and is intended to provide a visual reminder of the appropriate balance between the different food groups.
Although advancing age and being a woman are the two most significant risk factors for breast cancer, a family history also raises your risk of developing breast cancer and developing it at a younger age.
Although advancing age and being a woman are the two most significant risk factors for breast cancer, a family history also raises your risk of developing breast cancer and developing it at a younger age.
Breast Cancer Family History
You have a family...
Growing gray hairs is an inevitable part of aging. But how do you know when to cover it up or put it on display? Read on for tips on transitioning through the graying process.
Growing gray hairs is an inevitable part of aging. But how do you know when to cover it up or put it on display? Read on for tips on transitioning through the graying process.
When our bodies' melanin production decreases, our hair starts to go gray.
Everyone worries occasionally. Some people, however, feel afraid when they really don't need to or experience anxiety at a level that's unreasonable for the threat they face.
Are anxious people born that way? Studies suggest some people are "wired to worry" right from the start. What causes a predisposition toward anxiety, and what does it mean if you're wired that way?
Everyone worries occasionally. Some people, however, feel afraid when they really don't need to or experience anxiety at a level that's unreasonable for the threat they face.
If you don't have much interest in sex these days, you may worry that you'll never reclaim the passion and sexual desire you once had. Well, worry not. These supplements will get that fire raging once again.
If you don't have much interest in sex these days, you may worry that you'll never reclaim the passion and sexual desire you once had. You can't seem to recall just when you started feeling less than passionate, and wonder if you'll ever again enjoy a care and worry-free sex life.
Having children is an exciting, rewarding experience for most parents. For women suffering from depression, however, parenting is especially difficult and untreated depression can have long-lasting effects on their children.
Having children is an exciting, rewarding experience for most parents. For women suffering from depression, however, parenting is especially difficult and untreated depression can have long-lasting effects on their children.
You've probably heard of post-partum blues, in which new mothers experience mood swings and feelings of sadness shortly after birth.
You're newly single, and this may be an excellent time to re-enter the dating game. But before you hop back into the game, consider these tips.
You're newly single, maybe feeling lonely, and perhaps feeling disconnected from all your "couples" friends. This may be an excellent time to re-enter the dating game, but you're understandably hesitant because it seems so intimidating. Before you hop back into the game, it's essential for you to make certain considerations.
If you're looking to transform your curly or frizzy hair into sleek, straight strands, you've likely looked for options beyond the traditional blow dry. Here are the pros and cons of a few of the most popular hair straightening treatments.
If you're looking to transform your curly or frizzy hair into sleek, straight strands, you've likely looked for options beyond the traditional blow dry. Here's a rundown of the most popular hair straightening treatments, including the results you can expect from each method.
Having close friends is essential to any productive social life; however, it is possible that one of your "friendships" may be more than just that. Read on to find out if you're really partaking in an emotional affair.
You spend as much time with him as possible, seeing him is the bright spot of your day, you share your fears and your secrets, and you simply feel good when you're with him. Nope, not your husband--but a dear friend upon whom you've come to rely. But is he really just a friend, or something more? If the following scenarios resonate with you, your relationship could be in jeopardy.
The act of swallowing a pill can range from uneventful at best to gag-inducing at worst. Here, tips to make it easier.
It's no coincidence that the expression "a bitter pill to swallow" refers to something tough to accept. The act of swallowing a pill can range from uneventful at best to gag-inducing at worst. Children, notorious pill avoiders, often are given vitamins and other medication in chewable or liquid form.
The formula behind body mass index (BMI) can be tricky. It can help you know if the number on the scale is where it's supposed to be. However, BMI can't provide useful information about this.
In 2004, the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) labeled obesity as the number one health risk facing Americans. According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, obesity affects 32 percent of adult men and 35.
We all know that eating a diet rich in whole grains is good for your heart. Now a new study shows that the kind of fiber found in whole grains may also reduce your risk of dying at an early age from a variety of other causes.
We all know that eating a diet rich in whole grains is good for your heart. Now a new study shows that the kind of fiber found in whole grains may also reduce your risk of dying at an early age from a variety of other causes. The study, which was funded...
From aiding in digestion to raising a red flag about potential diseases, your saliva plays a pretty big role in your health.
What exactly is saliva, and what is its purpose? Could your saliva reveal secrets about your health? We've got your "saliva basics" (and beyond) right here.
Saliva is the watery, sometimes frothy liquid that forms in your mouth. Salivary glands in the cheeks and jaw produce between two and four pints per day.
If you find that your fire is burning one minute only to find it extinguished the next, you may have an irregular sex drive. In order to remedy your libido woes, you need to know what's causing it. Here, the four most common culprits.
If you find that your fire is burning one minute only to find it extinguished the next, you may have an irregular sex drive. In order to remedy your libido woes, you need to know what's causing it.
When your libido's plummeted to the point where your sex life is anything but satisfying, taking a close look at what's going on in your life may be the first step toward revving it up again.
Sure, expressing your emotions in positive ways can be a challenge, but keeping them bottled up is likely to lead to an explosion down the road.
When it comes to anger, health and psychology experts agree: Better out than in. Expressing anger in healthy ways can be a challenge; but keeping your emotions bottled up is likely to lead to an explosion down the road. What happens when we get angry, and how do we let it go?
Anger is a physical and psychological response to fear, stress, confusion, anxiety, or some other negative situation that puts us on guard.
Some skin care experts propose that women should shave their faces to help exfoliate their skin. Others maintain that this will stimulate unwanted hair growth. So who should you listen to?
Some skin care experts propose that women should shave their faces to help exfoliate their skin. Others maintain that this will stimulate unwanted hair growth. So who should you listen to? Is facial shaving a good idea for women?
The common assumption that shaving will make hair grow back darker and thicker is not true.
Camping is a perfect opportunity to get away for a few days and convene with nature. But if you suffer from allergies, heading out to the wilderness can expose you to a series of dangers. Here's how to stay healthy.
Camping is a perfect opportunity to get away for a few days and convene with nature. But if you suffer from allergies, heading out to the wilderness can expose you to a series of dangers. Here's how to stay healthy.
Camping with Allergies
While activities such as hiking in the woods, sleeping under the stars, and toasting marshmallows over the open fire can be enjoyable, they can also expose you to series of allergy triggers, such as pollen, mold, stinging insects, and poison ivy.
You don't consider yourself a smoker. An entire week can go by without a single craving for a cigarette. Yet, once the weekend rolls around, all bets are off. Good thing the occasional smoke can't hurt you. Or can it?
You don't consider yourself a smoker. A week can go by without a craving for a single puff of tobacco. However, once the weekend rolls in and you're among friends who smoke, you don't refrain from partaking. In fact, you may even enjoy the sensation. After all, smoking socially can't really hurt you.
Are you an "apple"? Are you a "pear"? And what does that really determine anyway?
For years we've been told that people with "central obesity"—also known as an "apple" body type—were at greater risk of developing heart disease than people with a "pear" shape, whose fat is clustered around their thighs and buttocks. However, a new study published in the medical journal The Lancet dispels that notion.
If you wake up with bad breath every morning, join the club. Very few people can escape it, and no one starts the day with a minty-fresh mouth. Fortunately, there are ways to tame the dragon.
If you wake up with bad breath every morning, join the club. Very few people can escape it, and no one starts the day with a minty-fresh mouth. Fortunately, there are ways to fight the dragon.
Bad breath in the morning can have many of the same causes as bad breath any other time of day: dry mouth, smoking, sinus problems, poor dental hygiene, or a stomach disorder, to name just a few.
Don't wait for fate to bring you together: it may never happen. Instead, take a chance with one of these attention getting tips.
You notice him from across the room, and you're pretty sure he's spotted you, too. Or maybe the two of you play on the same weekend softball team and you'd love to ask him out.
Don't wait for fate to bring you together. The reality is that it may never happen.
Here, answers to your most pressing questions about dense breasts.
Rumor has it that if you have dense breasts, then mammograms won't be effective. While there's some substance to that statement, it's not the whole story. Here, answers to your biggest questions about dense breasts.
How does breast density affect mammograms?
Breasts are made up of fatty tissue and connective tissue.
Although many people assume that asthma affects males and females equally, it's becoming increasingly clear to the medical community that respiratory health is handled differently by women and men.
Although many people assume that asthma affects males and females equally, it's becoming increasingly clear to the medical community that respiratory health is handled differently by women and men. Researchers from the Ohio State University Medical Center found that when you compare men and women with similar asthma conditions, women will be apt to perceive their symptoms as more serious.
Taking stock of the kinds of foods in your pantry and refrigerator and replacing the ones that increase your risk for cardiovascular disease with nutritious, flavorful whole foods, will help you and your family make heart-smart food choices and reduce your risk of heart disease.
Heart disease is the number-one killer of both men and women. But making just a few simple changes to your diet can make a big difference in keeping you and your family heart-healthy. And the first place to start is in the kitchen.
Start Your Heart Healthy Kitchen Makeover Here
The American Heart Association recommends that you eat a wide variety of nutritious foods every day.
Flipping through magazines, you see page after page of impossibly skinny and perfect people. Many magazines use photography angles, effects, and techniques to alter what you see, but could these photos be subconsciously affecting your confidence and self-image?
Flipping through magazines, you see page after page of impossibly skinny and perfect people. Many magazines use photography angles, effects, and techniques to alter what you see, but could these photos be subconsciously affecting your confidence and self-image?
Scientists say yes.
When sex stops being satisfying between you, your relationship becomes vulnerable. The remedy: effective communication. Follow these ten tips to voice your concerns without offending your partner.
A breakdown in intimacy is a leading cause of marital discord, says Danine Manette, infidelity expert and the author of The Ultimate Betrayal. And when sex is no longer satisfing, your relationship becomes vulnerable. Resentment, withdrawal, and unhappiness can settle in when the sex life sours.
The American Heart Association has some specific recommendations when it comes to getting heart healthy nutrients.
Although the shelves of your local pharmacy or health food store may be lined with dietary supplements claiming to provide a heart health benefit, there is little scientific evidence to support those claims.
To the contrary, one recent large, placebo-controlled randomized study of vitamin E actually failed to show any benefit on heart disease.
Many women with unwanted hair are on the lookout for hair removal solutions. But if they took the time to determine the cause, they might be better off.
Women love thick hair; that is, unless it grows in places they don't want it to.
Eight percent of women have unwanted hair growing on their upper lip, chin, cheeks, neck, arms, abdomen, or back. Hair growth in these areas is common for men, but when it happens to women, many search for hair removal solutions.
Overloading on vitamins and minerals is easy to do and can be dangerous.
Can taking extra vitamins be too much of a good thing? Yes. In fact, overloading on vitamins and minerals is easy to do and can be dangerous.
Vitamins and minerals are essential for keeping your body strong, fit and healthy. Most of us run the risk of not getting enough if we don't eat the right foods.
Remember having the chicken pox as a kid? That episode can come back to haunt you as an adult. Shingles normally presents with severe pain, tingling, or burning on one side of the body. That's followed by red, scaly blisters that break, dry, and crust over.
Remember that bout with chicken pox you had as a kid? You probably spent a good deal of time soaking in a baking-soda bath and trying not to scratch those itchy lesions. Fortunately, the infection cleared up with no long-lasting effects, right? Wrong! If you've ever had chicken pox, you're at risk of getting a related disease called shingles as you get older.
If you've ever been pregnant, you've probably taken daily folic acid supplements to safeguard the health of your unborn baby. But did you know that in the process, you could have been increasing your child's risk of developing asthma?
If you've ever been pregnant, you've probably taken daily folic acid supplements to safeguard the health of your unborn baby. But did you know that in the process, you could have been increasing your child's risk of developing asthma?
Folic Acid in Pregnancy
Taking folic acid in pregnancy has long been recognized for its protective action in preventing serious neural tube defects, including a condition called spina bifida.
The new technique of 3-D mammograms, or digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), overlays 3-D optical mammogram images with x-ray images.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) just approved the first system for digital mammography. The FDA reports that in pre-clinical studies, 3-D mammography was seven percent more accurate than traditional mammography.
3-D Mammography
3-D mammograms, or digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT), overlays 3-D optical mammogram images with x-ray images.
Researchers have found that women are 11 times more likely to develop this serious condition if they are missing teeth or have gum disease. What's the connection?
If you need one more reason to take good care of your teeth and gums, here it is. Periodontal disease is linked to breast cancer. In a recent study, researchers found that women were 11 times more likely to develop breast cancer if they were missing teeth or had gum disease.
What precautions should you consider when it comes to these radiation risks?
Last month's report published in the British Medical Journal may be giving x-ray technicians and doctors reason to hesitate before ordering diagnostic radiation. The recent study of children in The United Kingdom (England and Wales) examined childhood cancer risks associated with exposure to x-rays and ultrasound scans both in utero and early infancy (age zero to 100 days)
In the study, Preetha Rajaraman, PhD, of the U.
If your partner frequently says one thing when he means another, you may question his sincerity. Before mixed signals start causing your relationship to unravel, there's a lot you should consider.
If your partner frequently says one thing when he means another, or acts in one way only to behave in a completely different fashion later, you may question his sincerity. Before mixed signals start causing your relationship to unravel, keep in mind the following considerations:
1.
Many things can temporarily derail a relationship, including an episode of depression. It is possible, however, to get relationships back on track after treatment.
Many things can temporarily derail a relationship, including an episode of depression. Although mental health issues can take a toll on your relationship with your spouse, children, extended family, friends, and coworkers, they do not have to cause permanent damage.
What "real world" preventative steps should you incorporate into your life to lower your chances of heart disease?
Earlier this year, the American Heart Association (AHA) updated its cardiovascular prevention guidelines for women, which take into account what works best for women in the "real world" settings as opposed to findings from clinical trial research.
First...
Could it be the smell of relief? Here's how to use essential oils to address pain and anxiety associated with cancer treatment and recovery.
Aromatherapy is a type of complementary therapy and one that many cancer patients use in conjunction with traditional medical treatment.
Aromatherapy 101
For centuries, humans have used essential oil for healing. Many essential oils, which are derived from the stems, leaves, flowers, and roots of plants, have pharmacologic actions, which is why they are used in aromatherapy.
Twenty-five percent of people with diabetes don't even know they have it and that means they're not getting the treatment they need or taking the important steps necessary to keep the disease in check.
Considering that there are 7 million undiagnosed diabetics in the United States and about 1.9 million new cases of diabetes diagnosed each year, it's likely that someone you know has the disease. In fact, you or a family member could be at risk for developing diabetes.
Nearly two thousand people were evaluated against seven heart-healthy criteria set by the American Heart Association. The results may surprise you.
Just one out of 1,900 people evaluated in a study published in Circulation, met the criteria for ideal cardiovascular health set by the American Heart Association (AHA).
The study, initiated by researchers at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in Pennsylvania, evaluated 1,933 people, ages 45 to 75, through surveys, physical exams, and blood tests.
If you're suspicious that your partner has broken your trust, it can be a heavy burden to carry around. Get at the truth by looking for these ten tell-tale signs.
If you're suspicious that your partner has broken your trust, it can be a heavy burden to carry around. After all, trust is what your entire relationship is built on. Without it, you may well wonder what the two of you have.
"The two biggest things people hide from a partner are definitely an affair or money problems," says Stacy Kaiser, MA, MFT, author of How to Be a Grownup.
Your partner is undergoing a painful, traumatic experience. You want to be supportive, he's not the easiest person to help. To help your partner and to save your relationship, it's important to follow these 7 tips.
Your partner is undergoing a painful, traumatic experience--the loss of a job, the death of a loved one, or a business failure. While you want to be supportive, he's not the easiest person to help. So the two of you start going at it, and before you know it, you've got a crisis brewing between you that just seems to grow worse by the day.
The evidence is overwhelming that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps prevent cancer. Cruciferous vegetables, in particular, deliver compounds that help prevent the transformation of normal cells into cancer.
When former president George H.W. Bush publicly proclaimed his dislike of broccoli, he wasn't doing himself any favors. This ubiquitous vegetable is part of a family of vegetables that is a veritable powerhouse when it comes to cancer prevention.
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable, which is part of the cabbage family.
It's a great cause. If you'd like to get involved in finding a cure, raising awareness about the disease, or simply learning more about diabetes, here are some opportunities to dive right in.
Chances are that even if you're not diabetic, you have a friend or relative who is. Some 285 million people worldwide have the disease, and that figure is expected to jump to 438 million by 2030, according to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), as reported on MedicalNewsToday.
There are many reasons to take on this challenge, and mental acuity is probably at the bottom of the list. But that doesn't diminish the brain benefits it can confer.
It's no secret that knowing a second language brings multiple benefits. You're able to get around more easily if you visit a country in which that language is spoken, you can communicate with friends and family who speak that language, and you might even have an advantage in the job market.
A new study reveals some surprising factors when it comes to what brings on a heart attack.
Everyday occurrences such as drinking coffee and alcohol, physical exertion and even breathing can help spur a heart attack, according to a Belgium study published in the journal The Lancet. The study researchers analyzed data from 36 separate studies of potential triggers for heart attack in people ranging in age from 44 to 72 years old.
Good posture is the foundation for how the body moves, works and prospers. What exactly is good posture and how can you achieve it? Read on to become a posture perfectionist.
Good posture is important for everything we do, from making a good impression to preventing pain, but it means more than just standing up straight. It's the foundation for how the body moves, works and prospers. What exactly is good posture and how can you achieve it? Read on to become a posture perfectionist.
Is your ideal man one who can "protect" you from the evils of the past? Or are you a guy who feels the need to "rescue" women who have been wronged? If you answered "yes" to either question, you may have Knight in Shining Armor Syndrome.
Answer honestly: If you're a woman, Is your ideal man one who can "protect" you from the woes of past relationships? If you're a man, do you constantly feel the need to "rescue" women who have been wronged? If you answered "yes" to either question, you may have Knight in Shining Armor Syndrome--a relationship faux pas that can take you down treacherous paths.
Bioidentical hormone therapy is often called "natural hormone therapy" because bioidentical hormones act in the body just like the hormones we produce.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for women with menopausal symptoms can be divided into two eras: Before 2002 and After 2002. That's when the Women's Health Initiative (WHI) halted studies of a specific type of estrogen/progesterone therapy because they were linked to significant health risks.
It's hard to find time for fitness, a sensible diet, and health screenings, especially when you work full time. That is, unless health and fitness opportunities come directly to you.
It's hard to find time for fitness, a sensible diet, and health screenings—especially when you work full time. That is, unless health and fitness opportunities come directly to you. Employee fitness and health programs are par for the course at many large companies.
Also known as hereditary hemochromatosis, the body absorbs too much iron from foods you eat. The excess iron then gets stored in your organs, especially the liver, heart, and pancreas, which over time can damage them and lead to life-threatening illnesses.
Hemochromatosis, also known as hereditary hemochromatosis, causes the body to absorb too much iron from foods you eat. The excess iron then gets stored in your organs, especially the liver, heart, and pancreas, which over time can damage them and lead to life-threatening illnesses such as cancer, heart problems, and liver disease.
Having trouble getting in the mood? You can feel amorous, sexy, and ready for love without having to resort to pills or patches.
Having trouble getting in the mood? Given the stressful schedules and lack of free time that most people endure these days, it's hardly surprising that you lack the will or desire to be intimate with your partner. But you can feel amorous, sexy and ready for love without having to resort to pills or patches.
The Web offers many options for staying connected and keeping loved one updated on your or your family member's health issues. These methods are fast, easy, and efficient, and you'll know your support network is right there with you as a part of your journey.
When Jennifer Wilson Cooper learned she had ovarian cancer, she launched a blog as a way to share her story with others and to make it easy for friends and family to keep up with her progress. Little did she know she'd quickly-and dramatically-expand her circle of friends (you can follow Cooper's journey on her blog, Four Seeds, which is featured in Quality Health's free cancer newsletter and on the QualityHealth.
Sample these dozen healthy ideas that will help your family lead a healthier life for the long haul.
Parents may hold the key to turning the nation's obesity problem around, suggest the findings of a new study conducted by GfK MRI, a leading media and consumer market research company. Five thousand children aged 6-11 were surveyed as part of the 2010 American Kids Study and found that parental impact and behavior greatly influences their kids' attitudes toward food and nutrition.
Many would agree that no method of eyebrow shaping is perfect, but what are the pros and cons of each?
The toil of achieving the perfect set of eyebrows is enough to make anyone weary. Yet millions of women (and men, too!) show up at the salon every few weeks to be threaded or waxed—while others stay home to take on the challenge with tweezers. Many would agree that no method of eyebrow shaping is perfect, but what are the pros and cons of each?
Plucking
This method of eyebrow shaping is the most economical way of grooming your eyebrows.
Nearly every "health-conscious" food product or dietary supplement comes with the same catchphrase: "Packed with essential vitamins and minerals." But with a vitamin existing for almost every letter of the alphabet, which ones are really essential for you?
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Nearly every "health-conscious" food product or dietary supplement comes with the same catchphrase: "Packed with essential vitamins and minerals." But with a vitamin existing for almost every letter of the alphabet, which ones are really essential for you?
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), there are 13 vitamins that are crucial to proper body function.
If you've struggled with giving up a bad habit, or trying to create a new one, don't be too hard on yourself; it's not a personal weakness or lack of self-control. Turns out, there's a whole science behind habit formation.
Are you trying to lose weight? Begin an exercise program? Give up junk food? If you've struggled with giving up a bad habit, or trying to create a new one, don't be too hard on yourself; it's not a personal weakness or lack of self-control. Turns out, there's a whole science behind habit formation.
When conception becomes difficult, it can affect both partners. Read on for information about your options and how you can keep a positive perspective.
Infertility can be heartbreaking for couples who are faced with wrenching decisions about treatment and a variety of emotions ranging from disbelief that something so natural eludes them to depression when friends and siblings conceive easily. Even for couples who are very close, infertility tests a relationship like few other things do.
Learn about the causes, symptoms, and treatments of sebaceous cysts.
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Whenever you find a lump or bump that shouldn't be there, it's natural to feel worried. Sometimes a lump is a sign of something serious such as cancer. More often, however, it's nothing more than a simple sebaceous cyst.
In people with autoimmune disease, the immune system malfunctions and the body mistakenly attacks its own cells, causing a host of symptoms.
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One might say that autoimmune diseases are cases of mistaken identity. In healthy people, the immune system works the way it should, by keeping out invaders such as viruses and bacteria.
Get ready to clean out the cobwebs, spruce up your space, and break a serious sweat with this power-cleaning, calorie-burning workout.
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Can spring cleaning help you get ready for bathing suit season? It can if you do it right. Get ready to clean out the cobwebs, spruce up your space, and break a serious sweat with this power-cleaning, calorie-burning workout.
If your relationship's been nearly as chilly as the cold, dark winter, warm things up with these tips for a spring relationship cleanup.
If your relationship's been nearly as chilly as the cold, dark winter, it may be time to warm things up with a spring relationship cleanup. Along with those showers and flowers comes a hint of romance; so take advantage of the warmer, longer days and the great outdoors.
If your budget for beauty products isn't unlimited, you've probably considered generic alternatives. These formulas claim to be identical to their big-name brothers and sisters, but will they yield the same results?
If your budget doesn't extend to $100 or more for skincare, you've probably tried or considered generic alternatives. These over-the-counter and prescription formulas claim to be identical to their big-name siblings and often come in identical packaging.
Who needs a treadmill? Here are 10 smart ways to build exercise into your day with no special equipment needed.
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You don't necessarily need to go to spin classes or get up at 5am for an hour-long turn on the treadmill to keep your ticker in tiptop shape. For a healthy heart, you should be getting 30 minutes or more of moderate physical activity on most days of the week, says Joan Dorn, Ph.
This condition occurs when a person's white blood cells damage the glands that produce moisture throughout the body. Dry eyes and mouth are typical symptoms, but the disease can trigger serious malfunctions in major organs.
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Although it's one of the most common autoimmune diseases in this country, chances are you've never heard of Sjögren's syndrome. This condition occurs when a person's white blood cells damage the glands that produce moisture throughout the body.
The standard of care for ovarian cancer treatment has changed over time. What's the latest in the battle against this hard to diagnose disease?
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Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common malignancy in postmenopausal women in the U.S. and the fourth most common cause of cancer-related death. Like so many cancers, it's highly treatable when caught early; however, few symptoms make it difficult to detect until it becomes advanced.
When Daylight Saving Time arrives, you can reset your alarm clock, your computer clock and your wall clock, but it's not so easy to reset your internal clock. These tips will help make it easier.
When Daylight Savings Time arrives, you can reset your alarm clock, your computer clock, and your wall clock, but it's not so easy to reset your internal clock.
The hormone melatonin, secreted by the pineal gland in your brain, regulates your sleep-wake cycle by responding to daylight.
Chronic pelvic pain isn’t just a problem for women. Plenty of men suffer from it too. What are the common sources of pelvic pain for men and women? Find out here.
Chronic pelvic pain isn't just a problem for women. Plenty of men suffer from it too. What are the common sources of pelvic pain for men and women? It all has to do with what parts you have between your pelvic bones.
The pelvis is a basin made from our two hipbones, sacrum and coccyx bones.
If sex hurts, a woman can find it hard to get into the mood for intimacy, her partner feels frustrated, and no one's happy. Discomfort during intercourse isn't uncommon, and, fortunately, there are effective treatments that can help you get your sex life back on track.
If sex hurts, a woman can find it hard to get into the mood for intimacy, her partner feels frustrated, and no one's happy. Discomfort during intercourse isn't uncommon, and, fortunately, there are effective treatments that can help you get your sex life back on track.
If you're always putting yourself first without thinking of your significant other's needs, you're setting up your relationship for failure.
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It's one thing to take care of yourself. It's another when you're so self-focused that your partner is always taking a back seat while you do and say whatever you like without regard for his feelings.
Has your unconscious come to surface and forced you into a sticky, embarrassing situation? If so, worry not. There are ways to bounce back.
"What was I thinking?" We've all uttered these words from time to time when we say the wrong thing, make a stupid decision, or engage in some other temporary lapse in judgment. Despite our tendency to joke away our gaffes, they can be quite embarrassing.
Learn more about this uncomfortable skin condition including who's most often affected.
If you have unbearable intimate itching, you might have Lichen Sclerosis. This uncommon skin condition is usually a "girl thing," though men and children can get it too.
Lichen sclerosis (LS) causes delicate skin in the genital area to become thin, whitened, wrinkled, and sometimes, unbearably itchy, primarily in postmenopausal women.
Many people only discover they have cancer when something turns up on an x-ray, ultrasound, or other routine test. Unfortunately, the disease may then be in its later (and more difficult-to-treat) stages.
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Many people only discover they have cancer when something turns up on an x-ray, ultrasound, or other routine test. Unfortunately, the disease may then be in its later (and more difficult-to-treat) stages.
Are you the kind who, during lunch break, forgoes the trip across the street to the local café and plow through lunch at your desk while never diverging from work? If so, you could be harming your health. Here's four ways you can get back on track.
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You've seen them: the coworkers who, during their lunch break, forgo the trip across the street to the local café and plow through lunch at their desks while never diverging from work.
If you're a middle-aged woman it's especially important to keep your blood pressure under control. There are small changes you can make that will add up big when it comes to your health.
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If you're a woman, you're middle aged and you have high blood pressure, you're at an increased risk of heart attack.
"Having high blood pressure is not a good thing, especially for this age group," says Furqan H.
Could the act of raising your thermostat increase your waist line as well?
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Is the bitter blast of winter leaving your driveway ice-coated, car slush-covered, and heating bills at an all-time high? With all these cold weather woes, it's hard to believe it could get much worse.
Why are self-breast exams less in favor, and what options do you have now for detecting breast cancer?
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"But no one in my family ever had breast cancer."
This is an all-too-common response from women newly diagnosed with breast cancer. While family history is a significant risk factor, only about one in 10 women diagnosed have family members with breast cancer.
While fibro affects people from all social statuses, races and ethnic groups, approximately 75-90 percent of fibromyalgia patients are women. But do men experience it differently? Find out here.
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Fibromyalgia syndrome affects approximately 10 million Americans with widespread pain, fatigue, insomnia, depression and other debilitating symptoms. While it affects people from all social statuses, races and ethnic groups, approximately 75-90 percent of fibromyalgia patients are women.
You've heard about the health dangers of tanning booths: skin cancer and eye damage, to name just two. But if you simply can't get the desire for bronze out of your head, it's time to walk away from the tanning bed...and over to your fridge.
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Over and over again, you've heard about the dangers of tanning booths—skin cancer and eye damage, to name just two. But what if you simply can't get the desire for bronze out of your head? Then, it's time to walk away from the tanning bed.
Are your daily doses making you dizzy? Handy help is here.
Gone are the days when the only pill you popped was a multivitamin. Now, it seems your medicine cabinet is bursting with remedies for a variety of ailments, each with its own directions for use.
But how do you keep track of different medications when...
Doctor's offices are full of sick people, and not all of them practice good hygiene or use common sense about keeping their germs to themselves. So, how do you avoid picking up a virus or infection while in the waiting room? Start by following these 10 tips.
It's ironic, isn't it? The one place you go to get healthy is also among the best places to get sick. Doctor's offices are full of sick people, and not all of them practice good hygiene or use common sense about keeping their germs to themselves.
All you can eat buffets. Unlimited soda refills. Burgers the size of ball fields. When it comes to food, America serves it up. It's no wonder one-third of our children and two-thirds of adults are overweight or obese. Here's what you need to know to help your family eat better.
In an effort to improve the overall health of our nation, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) recently released new dietary guidelines (January 2011). The revised guidelines place a stronger emphasis on reducing calorie consumption and increasing physical activity.
According to a study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 2010 Annual Meeting migraines are seen in women with multiple sclerosis (MS) more often than in women without. What's the link? Read on to find out.
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Millions of women suffer from migraines. Millions more have multiple sclerosis. New research indicates there might be a connection between these two conditions. According to a study presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 2010 Annual Meeting migraines are seen in women with multiple sclerosis (MS) more often than in women without.
Telling your partner he's gained weight is not easy. Try these 10 tips to help motivate him tactfully.
You're worried about your partner's health, to say nothing of his appearance. But no matter how much you wish that he'd shed those extra pounds or lose the spare tire around his middle, it's really not up to you.
"You can't force someone to get in shape," says Jennifer Brennan, RD, CDN, who works at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.
A recent study from the National Institutes of Health says many women who suffer from migraines also suffer with chronic pelvic pain. Is there a connection between what’s going on upstairs and what’s going on below the belt? Find out here.
A recent study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) found that many women who suffer from migraines also suffer with chronic pelvic pain. Is there a connection between what's going on upstairs and what's going on below the belt?
The two most common chronic conditions women seek medical care for are migraines and chronic pelvic pain.
If you partner cheats, and you find out, you’re probably expecting a certain reaction–like remorse, maybe, or genuine sadness. But how about if he blames his genes? Is this a valid excuse? Find out here.
If you partner goes astray and has an affair, and you find out, you're probably expecting a certain reaction--like remorse, maybe, or genuine sadness. But how about if he blames his genes?
If cheaters want a new excuse for their actions, they may have found just the ticket.
Underwear is the foundation of any outfit. If you don't feel comfortable in your undergarments, you won't feel comfortable in your outfit either.
Underwear is the foundation of any outfit. If you don't feel great in your undergarments, you won't feel confident on the outside either. If you're feeling less-than-happy with your current ones, it may be time to switch some out. So, where do you start? Well, there may not be concrete laws about underwear, but you can count on certain guidelines to help you along.
More people than ever are turning to online dating to make a love connection. While a healthy relationship is a great goal to work toward, here are tips to keep in mind as you navigate your way.
Meeting that special someone who just might rock your world is easier than ever, thanks to online dating. And it's more popular than ever before, with an estimated 20 million Americans now using online dating sites, a figure that's more than doubled from just five years ago, says the market research firm IBISWorld, as reported in The New York Times.
Are your fingers and toes often cold, even when the rest of you is warm? If so, you could have a condition known as Raynaud's disease, in which there's an interruption of blood flow to specific areas of the body.
Are your fingers and toes often cold, even when the rest of you is warm? If so, you could have a condition known as Raynaud's disease, in which an interruption of blood flow to specific areas of the body (often the extremities but sometimes the nose and ears) makes them feel cold, turn different colors, and feel numb or prickly when they finally do get warm.
America is the land of the free and home of the brave. But when it comes to hygiene, we also tend to be the home of the over-obsessed. Here's how to remain fresh and clean without going overboard.
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America is the land of the free and home of the brave. But when it comes to hygiene, we also tend to be the home of the over-obsessed. Americans tend to overdo bathing, hair washing, and teeth brush, resulting with dry skin, dry hair, and bleeding or receding gums.
If you're wondering whether cancer rates are going up or down, here are a few highlights from the most recent update from the National Cancer Institute.
In 2001, the National Cancer Institute began producing the NCI Cancer Trends Progress Report. Since then, it has updated it annually. The Report gives us an overall summary on the incidence and mortality of different types of cancer.
So, if you're wondering whether cancer rates are going up or down, here are a few highlights from the most recent update (2009/2010)
Death rates for prostate, lung, breast, and colorectal cancers (the four most common types) continue to decline.
When it comes to vaginal discharge, how do you know what's normal and what's not? Well, it's all a matter of color, smell, quantity, and feel.
When it comes to vaginal discharge, how do you know what's normal and what's not? Well, it's all a matter of color, smell, quantity, and feel. Here, all the information you need to understand what's going on down there.
What's Normal?
Every woman past the age of puberty has vaginal discharge.
Germs thrive in saliva, mucous, stomach acids, and other body fluids. Regardless of how good you are about personal hygiene when you're sick, chances are you're going to spew a few germs.
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You're finally feeling better after that nasty flu or cold, and the last thing you want is to get sick again or infect someone else. Therefore, it's time to do a serious assessment of the five main areas where you and your "bug" hung out together.
Spare time is at a premium these days. If you find it difficult to find time to work out, worry not; we've provided you with calorie-burning gold.
Spare time is at a premium these days. If you find it difficult to find time to wor kout, worry not; we've provided you with calorie-burning gold.
1. Rise and stretch. While in bed, position yourself so that your right foot is on the opposite side of your left knee.
New lovers attribute their passionate feelings to matters of the heart. However, scientists are unraveling the science of falling in love and linking it directly to the brain.
Ah, romantic love; that all-consuming, butterflies-in-your-stomach feeling you so enjoy when you first fall in love with someone. New lovers attribute their passionate feelings to matters of the heart. However, scientists are unraveling the science of falling in love and linking it directly to the brain.
Some causes are unavoidable: a genetic predisposition or if you're going through chemo, for instance. However, you can often take steps to avoid the loss of your luscious locks.
Typically, baldness is thought of as a problem that rests solely in the male population. While losing what was once a triumphant head of hair is more common in men, women actually make up approximately 40 percent of American hair loss sufferers. Although the hair loss patterns for men and women are a bit different, many of the causes and treatment methods are the same.
Compromise is the key to any healthy relationship. Here, 8 tips to help you help your partnership.
Everyone likes getting their own way. But if you're in a relationship, learning the art of the compromise is essential. It can be a delicate balance, experts say, because if you always do what your partner wants, you'll ultimately feel resentful. But if you determinedly move forward with your own agenda all the time, and don't attempt to meet your significant other halfway, there'll inevitably be feelings of negativity and resentment.
Research presented at the 26th annual meeting of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology in Rome says that measuring a woman's hormone levels with a single blood test can accurately predict the age when she'll reach menopause.
Menopause is defined as the 12-month mark after a woman has her last menstrual period and the end of her reproductive life. Most women reach menopause some time in their late 40s or early 50s and might be peri-menopausal for as much as a decade before that time.
Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women in the U.S. But heart disease is actually a category of diseases and it pays to know the different types.
The term "heart disease" broadly refers to a range of diseases-more than 50-that affect your heart and blood vessels and is often used interchangeably with "cardiovascular disease." Heart disease is the number one killer of men and women in the U.S.
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Learn to stay tight with your sweetie year round.
Hearts, flowers, chocolate and lace-trimmed cards. Valentine's Day is the perfect occasion for saying "I Love You" in many beautiful and delicious ways. But keeping the passion alive - and making your partner feel cherished and special - is really a goal to work toward year round.
While it's difficult to determine the exact reason, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: Treating depression helps patients lose weight.
There's a strong link between depression and being overweight or obese. It's the classic chicken-and-egg question: does depression cause obesity, or does obesity trigger depression. While it's difficult to say for sure, one thing is becoming increasingly clear.
In fact, a new study found an inverse relationship over time between quitting smoking and a reduction in depressive symptoms.
Smoking acts as an antidepressant, making smokers feel good, at least in the short term. For years, physicians and smokers alike worried that quitting smoking would exacerbate depression in people who were already depressed.
Researchers are accumulating evidence to disprove this notion.
According to a new study, women who experience high stress on their jobs have an increased risk for heart attack or other forms of heart disease.
According to a new study, women who experience high stress on their jobs have an increased risk for heart attack or other forms of heart disease.
The findings, based on data from 17,415 healthy middle-aged women participating in the Women's Health Study,...
You've heard it a million times, but the next time you hear "you are what you eat," you can be sure that the statement has been validated by numerous studies.
You've heard it a million times, but the next time you hear "you are what you eat," you can be sure that the statement has been validated by numerous studies.
While the phrase has earlier origins, it didn't emerge in the English-speaking world until nutritionist Victor Lindlahr published his book You Are What You Eat: how to win and keep health with diet in 1942.
Women simultaneously give their best as professionals, mothers, wives, friends, sisters, daughters, and more. They work inside and outside the home and somehow finds time for everyone...except the one person who is most important: Herself.
What if Superwoman were overweight, depressed, anxious, and crabby? What if she was forgetful, distracted, and downright unhappy? Would we still consider her a superhero? That's what millions of women worldwide experience when they try to do it all; simultaneously giving their best as professionals, mothers, wives, friends, sisters, daughters, and more.
Sexually aggressive men are the most likely to misread important signals.
Men who are sexually aggressive tend to be worse at reading a woman's cues that she's not interested than men who are more relaxed about sex, according to a new study. The study's finding - that difficulties interpreting a woman's cues are linked with sexual aggression - certainly does not excuse rape, says University of Iowa psychologist Teresa Treat, a study researcher.
Here, 10 signs that there may be trouble ahead.
You may be happily involved with your significant other, and either married or contemplating it. You know your partner was in a serious relationship before you two met, and you thought it was over. Now you're wondering if it's not, and whether he still has feelings for his ex.
Since we can't really sleep the day away, here are a few tips for coping with Valentine's Day.
If the thought of another Valentine's Day makes you want to stay in bed and pull the covers over your head, don't despair; you're not alone. Although Valentine's Day is a made-up, highly commercialized holiday, it still manages to stir up a brew of unrealistic expectations and powerful emotions.
Does a typical day for you include work, shepherding children to activities, overseeing homework, and taking your parents to the doctor? You're part of the so-called sandwich generation, "sandwiched" as you are between the responsibilities of kids and elderly relatives.
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Does a typical day for you include work, shepherding children to activities, overseeing homework, and taking your parents to the doctor? You're part of the so-called sandwich generation, "sandwiched" as you are between the responsibilities of kids and elderly relatives.
A study at Johns Hopkins University found that Medicare beneficiaries who were accompanied to their medical appointments were more satisfied with their visits than those who went alone. How can you make the most of your companionship, beyond just being a driver?
As your parents get older, they will probably be spending more time with doctors. And while they may insist that they're perfectly independent and able to get themselves to and from appointments, you should consider accompanying them, at least some of the time.
Many of the products we use on a daily or weekly basis contain dangerously high levels of toxic chemicals, some of which are linked to increased risk of cancer.
It's true there's no place home, especially when it comes to indoor pollution.
Many of the products we use on a daily or weekly basis contain dangerously high levels of toxic chemicals, some of which are linked to increased risk of cancer. For example, one study found that women who reported the highest use of certain household products had a significantly higher risk for breast cancer.
Millions of women go undiagnosed with an extremely common mood disorder called the Body Blues. Instead of showing up as sadness or depression, Body Blues are often signified by weight gain, fatigue, and a low sex drive (among other symptoms).
Millions of women are undiagnosed with an extremely common mood disorder, called the Body Blues. Instead of showing up as sadness or depression, Body Blues shows up as weight gain, fatigue, and a low sex drive (among other symptoms). What's going...
Packed with protein and fiber, but low in fat, this pantry must-have delivers a lot of nutrition at an affordable price.
Legumes, or beans, may just be nature's wonder food. Loaded with protein and fiber, they deliver a hefty dose of nutrition at a cheap price.
They're versatile—you can boil, stew, puree, roast, or pan-fry them—and for people who choose to or need to avoid animal products, they can be a great entrée alternative.
A program of "eurhythmics" shows results in promoting physical coordination and mental acuity in older adults.
Elderly people are often unsteady on their feet and prone to falls, which can lead to serious complications. But a practice called eurhythmics, originally designed for students by the noted Swiss composer Emile Jaques-Dalcroze, may give them better balance and help them maintain their health.
When talking on your cell phone for long periods of time, do you find that your cheek and ear seem to be irritated or blistered afterward? If this sounds familiar, it’s not a coincidence.
When talking on your cell phone for long periods of time, do you find that your cheek and ear seem to be irritated or blistered afterward? If this sounds familiar, it's not a coincidence. Many cell phones contain nickel, which is a common allergy trigger.
Learn more about how to balance your symptoms and work-life and when to consider disability.
Managing fibromyalgia symptoms like pain, fatigue, sleep difficulties, anxiety and depression can feel like a full-time job. For some fibromyalgia patients however, their job is their saving grace, because it gives them something to focus on other than their symptoms.
Sex life taking a downward trend? Here, a dozen ideas for how to reignite the passion.
A lagging sex life doesn't have to be a chronic, incurable condition. Whether you've been married for a long time and have kids together, or you're a busy, stressed-out single with no time for sex, there are effective (and fun) strategies to help to rekindle the romance and add some sparkle to your sex life.
Fewer couples are tying the knot, but romance is still very much alive.
First comes love, then comes marriage? These days, one doesn't necessarily follow the other. Some 39 percent of Americans now say marriage is becoming obsolete, according to a study by the Pew Research Center. That's quite a drastic drop from 1978, when 28 percent of Americans felt that way.
Whether you get regular manicures or never do more than give your nails a cursory cut, the fact is, they speak volumes about your hygiene and your health.
Whether you get regular manicures or never do more than give your nails a cursory cut, the fact is, they speak volumes about your hygiene and your health. Here are some ways to ensure that your nails stay strong as well as signs that a more serious medical condition is going on and look for these signs to detect a potential medical problem.
When it comes to mercury exposure from fish, what do you need to know to make the healthiest choices?
According to a recent Swedish study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, the benefits of eating fish may outweigh the potential negative impact of mercury exposure from fish.
The study analyzed responses from more than 900 Swedish adults about the amount of fish in their diet and then examined the subjects' red blood cells for levels of mercury and selenium.
Family therapist Allison Cohen says separate beds are not a symbol of a dysfunctional relationship if they lead to healthier interactions between couples. Instead of tearing you apart, separate beds may actually bring you closer together.
For some couples, sleeping together is a cure for insomnia; for others, it's a cause. If you have trouble sleeping in the same bed as your partner, don't let it lead to more trouble in your relationship.
When the National Sleep Foundation polled adults about their sleep habits and conditions, about 25 percent of participants who are married or living with someone reported that they lose sleep because of their partner's sleep problems.
Aches and pains in breasts are common and usually no cause for alarm. For some women, however, sore breasts are a sign that something more serious is going on.
Aches and pains in breasts are common and usually no cause for alarm. For some women, however, sore breasts are a sign that something more serious is going on.
Breast pain is called myalgia. The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) explains what's going on inside our breasts:
Your breast is made up of glands, fat, and fibrous tissue.
"Mudding" is a growing trend in which the cardiovascular demands of a long-distance run is coupled with the physical demands of a military-style obstacle course and the carefree atmosphere of a summer-time musical festival.
Are you part of one of these demographics? 1) Bored of hitting the gym daily with no end in sight? 2) A former athlete that has lost her way over the years? 3) Tired of the lackluster drag of the work-a-day existence? If you've answered "yes" to any of the previous statements, there's a new movement in endurance racing.
Can taking your calcium and vitamin D supplements be too much of a good thing? Some researchers say, "yes." We've waded through the research for you to help you understand when enough is enough and when it may actually be too much.
Can taking your calcium and vitamin D supplements be too much of a good thing? Some researchers say, "yes." We've waded through the research for you to help you understand when enough is enough and when it may actually be too much.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Medicine suggests calcium supplements may increase your risk of a heart attack.
Could half the country be diabetic in 10 years? Here are changes you can make now to keep this scary prediction from becoming reality.
Half of Americans will have Type 2 diabetes by 2020, according to a current forecast. This comes from a newly released report by United Health Group's Center for Reform and Modernization.
It's a scary figure to consider, since diabetes is a devastating and potentially deadly disease.
Men and women tend to entertain different sexual fantasies. Here are some common sexual fantasies for each.
Everyone has sexual fantasies from time to time, and they're usually nothing to be worried about. Sexual fantasies are not only common, but can be good for a couple, too.
"It's almost always healthy to fantasize," says Laurie Puhn, family and couples mediator and author of Fight Less, Love More.
New research studies further qualify how the quality of the relationship affects a couple’s individual happiness and health.
Early research on marriage and happiness has uncovered a positive association between the two. This so-called "marriage advantage" showed that, on average, married people tend to be healthier, live longer, and be at less risk for many serious health conditions than those who never marry.
It takes work to keep your face looking youthful and healthy. And minor scrapes, burns, and breakouts can sometimes undo the work. Fortunately, you can go back on track by following these tips to help speed up healing and prevent scarring.
A daily skincare routine can help keep your face looking youthful and healthy, but minor scrapes, burns, or occasional breakouts are unfortunately inevitable. Try these tips to speed up healing and prevent scarring, plus learn when you should seek professional medical care.
You may not realize that something as mundane as a car accident could put you at major risk for this disorder.
Typically, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is associated with soldiers who have returned from combat; however, new information has found that the most common cause of PTSD is car accidents. Car accidents are also the most frequent kind of trauma experienced by American men and the second most frequent trauma experienced by American women.
If you have mild asthma and take a control inhaler that contains a combination of corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists (LABAs), you could be taking a life-threatening risk.
If you have mild asthma and take a control inhaler that contains a combination of corticosteroids and long-acting beta agonists (LABAs), you could be overmedicating, according to the experts.
The latest research reveals that adding LABAs to corticosteroids for patients with mild asthma doesn't bring any extra health benefits and could increase the risk for life-threatening effects.
Alcohol has long been believed to dehydrate skin, resulting in the premature appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Now, a recent study is suggesting that red wine (in moderation, of course) may do just the opposite.
Alcohol can have a dehydrating effect on your skin, increasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. But some research shows that drinking red wine (in moderation, of course) can have the opposite effect.
Scientists have been exploring "The French Paradox" for decades, trying to figure out what keeps their population so comparatively healthy despite a diet traditionally high in fat, cholesterol.
As anyone with a serious illness can attest, being a part of a supportive community is critical. Now, thanks to the Internet, you can reach far beyond your little corner of the world. That's what Jennifer Wilson Cooper, two-time ovarian cancer survivor, did.
As anyone with a serious illness can attest, being a part of a supportive community is critical. Now, thanks to the Internet, you can reach far beyond your little corner of the world.
That's what Jennifer Wilson Cooper, two-time ovarian cancer survivor, did.
It's cold outside, so snuggle up to your sweetie! Here are seven tips for better sex this winter.
The bone-chilling temperatures, blizzard-like conditions and icy roads that keep everyone hibernating indoors for the long winter months can actually have a positive effect on your sex life. Unlike summer, when people are busy with a variety of outdoor activities with friends and family, winter can be a good time for couples to reconnect.
Money can't buy you love, as the song goes. But can it buy you happiness? The answer to this riddle has been the topic of extensive interest and study. The answer is yes and no.
Money can't buy you love, as the song goes. But can it buy you happiness? The answer to this riddle has been the topic of extensive interest and study. The answer is yes...and no.
Daniel Gilbert, a Harvard University psychologist and author of Stumbling on Happiness, has extensively studied whether money makes people happy.
While there may be some things about aging that are less than lovable, it turns out that hitting those milestone birthdays often means there are plenty of positives to celebrate. Here are a few.
You can feel blue about getting older, but that won't change the fact that we all do it. And while there may be some things about aging that are less than lovable, it turns out that hitting those milestone birthdays often means there are plenty of positives to celebrate.
These small lifestyle changes can make a big impact in helping you manage your asthma effectively anywhere and anytime.
Unfortunately, there's no magic cure for asthma. It is a lifelong chronic condition that requires you to master ways to avoid asthma attacks. But this doesn't mean that your respiratory challenges should hold you back from achieving your goals. These small lifestyle changes can make a big impact in helping you manage your asthma effectively.
Here's a look at six health practices and how they can affect intimacy.
If you want to have a sizzling sex life, take a good look at how healthy the other aspects of your life are, experts say.
And remember, you're never too young to make changes in your lifestyle that will promote health and vigor, says Maria Ordonez, MD, urological surgeon at NewYork Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia Medical Center in New York City.
Here are three active steps you can take now to set yourself up to not only become a centenarian but do so in the best health possible.
Will you make it to 100? You might, as more and more people are achieving this milestone.
But a better question to ask might be: Will you feel great at 100? A small subset of the population not only reaches 100 years of age but continues to live life fully and joyously after 10 decades.
10 tips to infuse your evening with love and intimacy.
Ready to spend the last night of the year with your sweetie? Start by resolving to focus on each other, to avoid spending more than you can afford, and to keep your celebration simple. Here are the 10 tips from Sara Nasserzadeh, Ph.D., author of The Orgasm Answer Guide, Tina B.
Heart disease may be the leading cause of death for both men and women, but there are many things you can do now to avoid it.
Heart disease may be the leading cause of death for both men and women, but there are many things you can do now to avoid heart disease. And what better time than the beginning of the New Year to put prevention steps in effect?
Here are five things you can do to ensure a heart-healthy New Year.
Your OBGYN has been there for you through thick and thin: from your first contraception to your last baby to even menopause. But should she also be your go-to-doctor for everything else?
Your obstetrician-gynecologist has been there for you through thick and thin: from your first contraception to your last baby; maybe even through menopause. But is she always the best choice as a primary care physician? Your gynecologist as your go-to-doctor-for-everything might not necessarily be a good idea.
Joint pain may seem to naturally result from purely physical ailments such as arthritis, but there's significant evidence that joint pain can be caused or exacerbated by mental distress.
Although it may seem that joint pain should naturally result from purely physical ailments such as arthritis or other conditions, there's significant evidence that joint pain can be caused or exacerbated by mental distress. Specifically, anxiety disorders have been targeted as the culprit in many cases of joint pain, both anecdotally by arthritis sufferers and by scientists officially studying the phenomenon.
It probably doesn't matter what type of creamer you use, or what's on the ingredient list if you drink a cup of coffee a day. But if you drink several cups a day, and add more than the standard serving size of creamer per cup, you may be getting more fat and sugar than you bargained for.
If you only drink one cup of coffee a day, it probably doesn't matter what type of creamer you use, or what's on the ingredient list. But if you drink several cups a day, and add more than the standard serving size of creamer per cup, you may be getting more fat and sugar than you bargained for.
After extensive studies to determine whether this concern is founded, the National Cancer Institute and American Cancer Society have come to a conclusion.
Breast cancer is teeming with frightening rumors surrounding its causes. One of the most common is about whether antiperspirants and deodorants can cause breast cancer. We looked at the research presented by two reputable champions in the challenge to stop breast cancer: The American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute.
Do they or don't they? The question of whether artificial sweeteners cause cancer has been hotly debated in the medical community.
Do they or don't they? The question of whether artificial sweeteners cause cancer has been hotly debated in the medical community. The conclusion: scientists don't think so. At least, the data collected so far is inconclusive, and does not point to a link.
You can't turn on the TV or open a magazine without seeing a new "revolutionary" product that promises to turn back time. Before you blow your paycheck on a 3 oz jar of anti-aging cream, be sure to understand what these treatments can really do.
Anti-aging creams containing retinol, hydroxy acids, and all kinds of enzymes and botanicals crowd drugstore shelves and pharmacies. You can't turn on the TV or open a magazine without seeing a new "revolutionary" product that promises to turn back time.
A new study finds that heart disease patients' risk of suffering a major cardiovascular event can be measured by their resting heart rate.
A study by Canadian researchers has found a direct link between heart rate at rest and the risk of death in people with stable heart disease. The researchers analyzed data from two major clinical trials that followed more than 31,500 patients over four years.
This intense therapeutic experience manipulates your fascia, the connective tissue around muscles, to restructure your physique.
First popular in the 1970s, Rolfing is a trend again. Created by Ida Pauline Rolf, a biochemist from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Columbia University, Rolfing isn't your typical massage.
According to the Rolf Institute® of Structural Integration (RISI), the therapy is described as a way to manipulate or restructure your fascia-the connective tissue around muscles.
Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a very scary condition that can be fatal. What do you need to know about DVT to ensure it doesn't happen to you?
Deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) is a very scary condition that can come on without warning. It involves the formation of a clot in the lower body, usually the legs. If this clot dislodges and becomes stuck in the heart or lungs, it can be fatal. Immediate treatment is crucial for survival.
Which veggies promise to reduce age-related memory deficits?
You may have heard of salmon and blueberries being referred to as "brain foods" for their specific properties that keep the brain healthy. Now a new study proves that certain vegetables qualify as brain foods as well.
Veggies--specifically crunchy, colorful ones such as celery, peppers, and carrots--contain a plant compound called luteolin, which works to tamp down inflammation in the brain that causes problems with memory.
The disease kills about one in every 10 patients but the results of a new study could change the way they are treated and improve survival rates.
Though relatively rare-affecting less than 2 percent of the adolescent population-anorexia nervosa is a life-threatening illness with a high mortality rate. Patients with the condition believe they are fat, and use food restriction and exercise to maintain dangerously low body weights.
Shift work disrupts our internal clock, which tells us when to eat, sleep, and be active.
Healthcare, transportation, manufacturing workers, and public servants play a critical role in our society, often working in the wee hours of the morning when the rest of us are sound asleep. Working nights, early mornings, or rotating shifts can affect workers' health.
Hearing that you need heart surgery can be frightening, but knowing what you can expect the day of your operation and afterward may help ease your fears and give you back a sense of control.
Unless your surgery is an emergency, talk to your doctor or other healthcare professionals to find out everything you can about your condition and the type of operation being recommended. Ask your healthcare team:
About the details of your surgery,...
Eating the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables can feel a bit daunting, especially for busy families on the go. The good news is that it's a lot easier than you might imagine.
Fruits and vegetables are full of nutrients that keep you healthy and help prevent cancer. Furthermore, since obesity is a significant risk factor for cancer, a diet that emphasizes plant-based foods helps you maintain a healthy weight.
Here are a few tips for adding healthy fruits and vegetables to your diet:
Learn what a serving looks like.
For some women, it may not be all in the head.
Women may not be in the mood for sex for many reasons--they're too tired, too stressed, too resentful, or maybe just too reluctant since the kids are still awake and in an adjacent bedroom. But not wanting sex isn't always tied into what's going on in a woman's head.
Here, 5 tips to keep both of you satisfied in the bedroom.
In a perfect world, you and your partner would want sex simultaneously and you'd both be happy with the amount of intimacy in your relationship. There would be no finger pointing, no self-recrimination, and no feelings of inadequacy on one partner's part and frustration on the other partner's part.
If you've lost access to insurance, you may be wondering how you'll survive. Is there a way to get good health care even if your finances are unstable?
The cost of health insurance is scary, but having no health insurance can be downright terrifying. If you've lost access to insurance, you may be wondering how you'll survive. If you or a family member has a pre-existing condition, covering the costs of all of the prescription drugs and doctor's visits you need may seem impossible.
Teenagers may be irresponsible about a lot of things, but when it comes to condom use, they're actually more careful than grownups.
Teenagers may be irresponsible about a lot of things, but when it comes to condom use, they're actually more careful than grownups.
In a study of sexually active 14- to 17-year-olds, 80 percent of the boys and 69 percent of the girls reported using a condom the last time they'd had sex.
If you're a woman using hormone replacement therapy (HRT), you may be frightened about developing cancer, but even more frightened about giving up your prescription. But hold on—things might not be as scary as they seem.
We've all seen the headlines: Hormone Replacement Therapy Increases Risks for Cancer! If you're a woman using hormone replacement therapy (HRT), you may be frightened about developing cancer, but even more frightened about giving up your prescription.
As difficult as a cancer diagnosis is, you can cope with it. Here are a few of the things you should do first after learning you have cancer.
"You have cancer."
These three words can make you feel as though you've been hit by a fast-moving train and then strapped into an out-of-control roller coaster. You probably wonder how you're going to cope with the stress, your fears, treatment side effects, and managing work, family, and other responsibilities while ill.
Did you know you should also have regular sexual health check-ups? At these appointments, your doctor not only can pinpoint any physical conditions early on but may be able to help with certain problems keeping you from enjoying a satisfying sex life.
You're vigilant about scheduling an annual physical, and you pay attention to your cholesterol, blood pressure and weight. But did you know you should also have regular sexual health check-ups? At these appointments, your doctor not only can pinpoint any physical conditions early on but may be able to help with certain problems keeping you from enjoying a satisfying sex life.
Growing evidence supports the theory that it is possible to be overweight and healthy, provided the individual is also fit.
Don't judge a book by its cover has long been the counsel of school teachers, but a growing body of evidence suggests the expression may apply to people, too. Overweight adults, it turns out can be healthy.
One example is research published in the Journal of American Medical Association (JAMA) which followed 2,600 adults (60 and over) for 12 years to observe the link between weight, fitness, and mortality.
Increases in accidental overdoses of over-the-counter, prescription, and illegal drugs are one of the fastest-rising causes of accidental death in the U.S.
Whether you reach for prescription pills on a daily basis or take an over-the-counter remedy for a persistent cough or occasional headache, there are risks associated with all medications especially when they are combined with other medications.
According to the National Safety Council (NSC), increases in accidental overdoses of over-the-counter, prescription, and illegal drugs are one of the fastest-rising causes of accidental death in the United States.
Get to know this common test, what it measures, and what percentage number means you're in good control.
Whether you have just been diagnosed with diabetes or you've had it for awhile, you've surely heard the term "hemoglobin A1C" tossed around by your doctor. Here are answers to some important questions about this test.
1. What exactly does the hemoglobin...
Whether it's bad breath or body odor, here are some ways to ease into a conversation.
It's a conversation you'd just as soon not have with your partner. But his bad breath (or body odor, excessive flatulence, or another repulsive condition or habit) is such a turn off that you've decided you have to bring it up.
"If you don't it will erode the relationship," says Irina Firstein, LCSW.
You can look great without wearing uncomfortable, constricting clothing. Here's how you can be stylish and still stay comfortable.
Even if your daily wardrobe consists of loose jeans and sweatshirts, chances are you'll be attending at least one holiday party this season. And that means getting out of your comfort zone and dressing up. Perhaps you've got a slinky number hanging in your closet from last year.
All orgasms aren't created equal. Here, differences between men and women.
The truth about orgasms? They're just not the same for both sexes. While experiencing an orgasm for a woman depends a lot on where her head is at (and whether she remembered to take care of all the details of the day before she'll even allow herself to think about orgasms), it's a whole lot simpler for guys.
Poor circulation can cause numbness, cold hands and feet, and other unpleasant symptoms. But a sluggish blood flow isn't something you have to live with. You can boost your circulation and get that blood moving through your body.
If you have poor circulation, you may be plagued by such undesirable symptoms as cold hands and feet, numbness, tiredness in the legs upon standing for long periods, or wounds that are slow to heal. But a sluggish blood flow isn't something you have to live with.
Your knees have a heavy load to bear. They support a good percentage of your body weight and have been doing so since you learned to walk. So it's no surprise that as you get older, your knees may experience a little (or a lot) more trouble than they used to.
Your knees have a heavy load to bear. They support a good percentage of your body weight and have been doing so since you learned to walk. So it's no surprise that as you get older, your knees may experience a little (or a lot) more trouble than they used to.
Are you and your partner looking to start or add to your family? Don't let stress put a stop to it.
You desperately want to be a parent and all your friends seem to be announcing their pregnancies to the world. While you're happy for them, you're experiencing a wrenching gamut of emotions about your own situation that ranges from anger to despair to fear.
Chronic stress is a villain that causes a host of problems ranging from sleep and digestive disorders to depression. Stress can affect your concentration, lead to weight gain (or loss), weaken the immune system and even contribute to heart disease.
Stress brings man into Penny Donnenfeld's New York City practice. "Stress is real and should be taken seriously," says the clinical psychologist who is also a supervisor at Columbia University's Teacher's College. "It can affect your functioning and your physical health in profound ways but is often dismissed as 'only' stress.
Here, we reveal the truth about how she really feels.
Typically, we're inundated with TV shows and movies suggesting only men are the ones who complain about lack of intimacy from their partner. However, it's equally as frustrating for a woman whose husband has no or little interest in sex. Especially in a society in which many wives seem to complain about their lack of desire for intimacy with a spouse, a woman who wants more intimacy (and is getting less) from her husband can experience a low self esteem and wonder if something is wrong with her.
Getting away for some pressure-free, stress-free time with your partner sounds like a terrific idea. After all, how can two people not get along in a beautiful spot with no kids, no irritating coworkers, and no nagging bosses? Couples retreats have both pros and cons, so weigh both before you sign up
Getting away for some pressure-free, stress-free time with your partner sounds like a terrific idea. After all, how can two people not get along in a beautiful spot with no kids, no irritating coworkers, and no nagging bosses?
Couples retreats have both pros and cons, so weigh both before you sign up.
What is the normal weight obesity condition and what can you do about it?
Mayo researchers have coined a new condition: normal weight obesity (NWO) also known as "skinny fat."
According to research from the Mayo Clinic, more than half of American adults thought to have normal body weight, as defined by their body mass index...
Fewer women are having children than ever before. In fact, in 2008, 80 percent more women remained child-free by age 44, as compared to 1976. Why this remarkable downturn? And what are the health implications of not reproducing?
Fewer women are having children than ever before. That's according to a new study released by the Pew Research Center, claiming that 2008, 80 percent more women remained child-free by age 44, as compared to 1976. Why are there more women without children? The answers aren't as obvious as you might think.
Cryolipolysis, a new technique for eliminating unwanted body fat, is quickly becoming popular. But before you rush to set up an appointment, here's what you should know.
Fitness experts tell you to "feel the burn," but others may soon be telling you to "cool it." That's because Cryolipolysis, a new technique for eliminating unwanted body fat, is quickly becoming popular. The Food and Drug Administration only recently approved it, but many dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons have been performing cryolipolysis "off label" for a while.
Are your thighs and hips plagued by bumpy, cottage-cheese style skin? You're not alone. Approximately 80 percent of women suffer from cellulite. So, what can you do about this unsightly condition?
Are your thighs and hips plagued by bumpy, cottage-cheese style skin? You're not alone. Approximately 80 percent of women suffer from cellulite. So, what can you do about this unsightly condition?
What Is Cellulite?
Cellulite appears when the connective cords that tether your skin to muscle push against an area of fat cells.
If the feeling just isn't striking you, don't worry. We have the fixes to get you back in the mood.
A lack of interest in your partner can make you feel a range of emotions: guilt, frustration, sorrow and anxiety chief among them. Whether it's been a long time coming or it's seemingly overnight that you find yourself simply not caring anymore, a disinterest in that someone who's been so incredibly special in your life usually occurs for one or more reasons.
Do you crave time to yourself? More importantly, do you make time for yourself? Many people need some rejuvenating alone time and making this time a priority is one of the best things you can do to care for yourself.
Do you occasionally crave time to yourself? More importantly, do you make time for yourself? Many people need some rejuvenating alone time and making this time a priority is one of the best things you can do to care for yourself.
Most of us are running non-stop between work, family, and other obligations.
If shortness of breath and wheezing are accompanied with hot flashes and mood swings, you might have more than just menopause.
You probably associate menopause with a wide range of physical changes. But have you ever thought that this change of life can also trigger asthma symptoms?
When Menopause and Asthma Co-Exist
If you've never experienced any respiratory issues before menopause and you suddenly find yourself wheezing and short of breath, the timing might not be a coincidence.
Ovarian cancer is among the sneakiest cancers. Its symptoms can be so vague that 80 percent of women who develop it don't know they have it until it's spread to other organs. Recent studies, however, reveal new genetic clues about who's at risk.
Ovarian cancer is among the sneakiest cancers. Its symptoms can be so vague that 80 percent of women who develop it don't know they have it until it's spread to other organs. Recent studies, however, reveal new genetic clues about who's at risk.
Type 2 diabetes, once considered a disease of the old, is turning up more often than ever before in younger people, but there is some good news.
Type 2 diabetes, once considered a disease of older people, is turning up more often than ever in the young and rising obesity rates among teens is why.
Some 154,000 people under the age of 20 now have diabetes in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Whether you want to lose 5 or 50 pounds, it's extra challenging when you have diabetes.
Whether you want to lose 5 or 50 pounds, it's extra challenging when you have diabetes.
If you're prone to episodes of hypoglycemia, there are times when you have to eat whether or not you want to, and it can be frustrating to have to take in those extra calories to prevent your blood sugar from dropping dangerously low.
Without a doubt, older women bring depth and maturity to many relationships, but there can also be valid reasons to steer clear of courting a cougar.
According to Fayr Barkley, Ph.D. human behavior research expert and founder of cougar international (a cougar/cub dating site) younger men are driving the dynamic behind the younger man/older woman dating trend.
"I see a ratio of more than 10 men to every woman who join my website, www.
Does the idea of retirement scare you? Here's how to prep for this major life transition.
For some people, leaving the workforce is a long-held dream. For others, the thought of giving up the job they've had for years is a great source of anxiety. If retirement is something that scares you, it's important to be well prepared for this major life transition.
The birth control patch has been popular since it came on the market in 2002 due to its convenience and reliability. It's also been controversial because studies have linked it to some serious health risks. Now, there are new worries.
Hormonal contraception has provided safe, reliable birth control for fifty years. Originating as "The Pill," hormonal contraception is now available in a variety delivery methods including the Ortho Evra birth control patch. The Patch has been popular since it came on the market in 2002 for convenience, reliability and user-friendliness.
These simple strategies can knock a whole decade off of your outlook so you'll feel 10 years younger.
You can try at least a few of these strategies to knock a whole decade off of your outlook and feel ten years younger:
Laugh. A hearty chuckle sends your blood pressure downward, unkinks your muscles, and may even lower your stress hormone levels.
Diabetic women are much more prone than non-diabetic women to getting yeast infections. Here's why and what to do about it.
If you're a woman with diabetes, you've probably found yourself at the drugstore more than once, trying to figure out which over the counter medication would be most effective for the symptoms of itching and burning that signal another yeast infection.
The delicate skin on your neck can reveal your true age—no matter how young your face looks. But does it really need one of the dozens of specialized formulas available? And how do you choose the right one?
The delicate skin on your neck can reveal your true age-no matter how young your face looks. But does it really need one of the dozens of specialized formulas available? And how do you choose the right one?
The skin on your neck contains so little fat and few sebaceous, or oil-producing-glands, making it particularly susceptible to premature aging.
People with depression typically lose interest in many activities they once enjoyed, including sex. This can significantly reduce their quality of life. Because many patients are reluctant to discuss sexual problems with their physician, the problem often goes unidentified and untreated.
People with depression typically lose interest in many activities they once enjoyed, including sex. This can significantly reduce their quality of life. Because many patients are reluctant to discuss sexual problems with their physician, the problem often goes unidentified and untreated.
New research has now determined that men and women misuse pain medication differently.
It's long been accepted that men and women experience pain differently. They feel it in different parts of their bodies, have different ways of expressing it and even have different pain thresholds and durations. When doctors prescribe pain medication, especially if it is opiate-based, like Vicodin or Oxycontin, they consider these gender differences.
There are some simple steps you can take to make sure you don't become a walking biohazard, regardless of the state of the public bathroom you find yourself in.
What You Can Catch, If Anything? There are a few misconceptions surrounding public restrooms and bacteria. Bacteria thrives in wet, moist environments-making sinks, faucet knobs, and flushers prime for the spread of germs. So, yes, it is very possible to get sick from visiting the restroom at your local fast food joint.
"Brain fog" is a common complaint of women during menopause. They feel they should be at the top of their game, but instead find themselves dropping the ball by making small errors and forgetting details like never before.
Hot flashes and night sweats get all the attention when it comes to menopausal symptoms, but for many women, it's the way perimenopause and menopause affect their brain that's a bigger priority.
Mood swings, anxiety, depression, insomnia and "brain fog (a combination of confusion, memory loss, and inability to focus)," are common complaints during menopause.
Your surgeon will instruct you on a list of do’s and don’ts to help you get ready and minimize risks. Some surgeries have very specific instructions and your surgeon will make sure you know what to do. Many, however, include these general instructions.
The success of your upcoming surgery depends in part on what you do and don't do before the big day. Your surgeon and anesthesiologist are counting on you to make sure they can do their job in the operating room safely while also making sure you're comfortable.
Exhibiting defensive qualities is usually viewed as negative, but this may not always be the case for men.
Typically, defensiveness-a trait characterized as rejecting, repressing, or contradicting information that's perceived as threatening-is viewed as a negative quality, and in a lot of ways it is; for men, however, this may not be the case.
You've seen it: the coworker contradicting or becoming uptight about constructive criticism, or the friend that flips the switch from friendly to antagonistic once you crack a joke.
Your favorite fragrance may be giving off more than just a nice scent.
The chemical composition of the fragrances you own may be giving off more than just a nice scent. According to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics who recently published a report analyzing 17 name-brand perfumes, these chemicals may have inherent health risks that could lead to asthma, contact dermatitis, and hormone imbalances.
Is it possible that certain widely-used pain relievers may have a role in cancer prevention and treatment?
There is a growing body of evidence that certain pain relievers may have a role in cancer prevention and treatment, especially for colorectal and breast cancer.
While results are mixed, the medical community is investing significant attention and resources to this subject.
If you're feeling a definite lack of sparkle and sizzle in your love life, it may just be all in your head. You can look glowing, desirable, self-confident and utterly sexy again, but it has to start with you.
If you're feeling a definite lack of sparkle and sizzle in your love life, it may just be all in your head. You can look glowing, desirable, self-confident and utterly sexy again, but it has to start with you.
"The most powerful sex tool we have is our brain," says Lisa Rene Reynolds, Ph.
New research links the consumption of red meat to an increased risk of bladder cancer, the tenth most common cancer in the U.S.
Red meat is making headlines again. This time, new research links the consumption of red meat to an increased risk of bladder cancer, the tenth most common cancer in the U.S.
The Study In the National Institutes of Health and AARP's Diet and Health...
Kickboxing is a total-body, booty-kicking workout that's fun, makes you fast on your feet, and kicks you into the best shape of your life.
Ever since the 1970s when everybody was Kung Fu Fighting, martial arts-based exercise has been a solid fitness favorite. For the last decade, kickboxing, and its "cousin," cardio-boxing have become popular variations on these challenging workouts, through Tae-Bo, Powerstrike and classes all over the world.
If you have painful periods, irregular bleeding, pelvic pain, or have even had trouble getting pregnant, you could be among the 9 percent of American women with endometriosis.
If you have painful periods, irregular bleeding, pelvic pain, or have even had trouble getting pregnant, you could be among the 9 percent of American women with endometriosis. While this common condition can be disabling, there are plenty of treatment options that can cure it or make living with endometriosis a whole lot easier.
A perfectionist is someone who constantly strives to achieve extremely high standards. You would expect perfectionism to be a good personality trait, but it usually isn’t.
You must do the right thing the first time. Nothing good comes from making mistakes.
Are you nodding your head as you read these statements? These are classic thoughts of the perfectionist. A perfectionist is someone who constantly strives to achieve extremely high standards.
Do you believe that most people will tell a lie if they think they can gain by it? If you answered yes to this question, chances are you have a bit of a cynical streak.
Do you believe that most people will tell a lie if they think they can gain by it? If you answered yes to this question, chances are you have a bit of a cynical streak.
The dictionary defines cynicism as a bad attitude, a belief in bad outcomes, resentment, sarcasm, or suspicion.
You and your partner have a caring, mutually supportive relationship, except for one little sticking point: he’s still friendly with his ex. You don’t know whether this is perfectly healthy and natural, or whether you should call him on it. Here’s how to know when it’s okay and when it’s not okay.
You and your partner have a caring, mutually supportive relationship, except for one little sticking point: he's still friendly with his ex. You don't know whether this is perfectly healthy and natural, or whether you should call him on it. Here's how to know when it's okay and when it's not.
The most common type of cancer in the United States is also widely misunderstood. Take action to keep you and your family safe from skin cancer.
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States, but it's also widely misunderstood. Exposing the myths and taking action can go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones safe.
There are two types of skin cancer: non-melanoma (basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas) and melanoma.
Find out what makes this form of cancer so fatal.
Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer in women in the U.S. and the fifth leading cancer-related cause of death. The National Cancer Institute estimates there will be 21,880 new cases of ovarian cancer in 2010, and approximately 13,850 women will die from it.
Some of us have been led to believe that going on and off the birth control bill is a good way to give our bodies a "break." The truth is, though, this constant "back and forth" could be harmful to our health.
There are almost as many birth control myths as there are birth control options. One misconception is that women need to quit taking birth control pills occasionally to give their body a "natural" break. The truth is that going off and on the Pill frequently (aka yo-yoing) is a good way to get pregnant and may even put your health at risk.
Sure, there may be some difficulties now that you're older. But it’s never too late to get your intimacy back.
The coast is clearer than ever before. The kids are grown and living on their own, and you no longer have to lock your bedroom door in order to be intimate with your partner. Just one problem: you don't feel as, well, as sexy as you did when you were younger.
The battle of the sexes turns into a battle over the thermostat when men and women live or work together. So, when it comes to this hot topic, how can both genders learn to live in harmony?
The battle of the sexes turns into a battle over the thermostat when men and women live or work together. That's because women always seem to be cold while men always seem to be hot. What's behind this hot topic and how can men and women achieve climate control?
It's not just a battle of wills.
Being married seems so easy at first: everything's new and fresh, from the bone china to the queen-sized comforter to "officially" sharing a last name. But at some point, the honeymoon's clearly over and you both find yourselves marveling at how tough being married can be.
Being married seems so easy at first: everything's new and fresh, from the bone china to the queen-sized comforter to "officially" sharing a last name. But at some point, the honeymoon's clearly over and you both find yourselves marveling at how tough being married can be.
Seat belts save more than 13,000 lives every year in this country, but they can do so only if you wear them the right way.
Seatbelts save more than 13,000 lives every year in this country, but they can do so only if you wear them the right way. In fact, using your seatbelt improperly isn't always better than not using it at all—you may be setting yourself up for serious injury if you wear your seatbelt in any way other than the way it was designed to be worn.
Some studies estimate that up to 88 percent of women have breast assymetry. While it's usually harmless and likely not noticeable, many women feel self-conscious nonetheless. So what can you do?
Some studies estimate that up to 88 percent of women have breast assymetry. While it's usually harmless and likely not noticeable, many women feel self-conscious nonetheless. So, what can you do about uneven breasts?
Desiree Bley, MD, OB-GYN in Portland, OR says, "I'd say almost every woman has some level of breast asymmetry and there's nothing wrong with that.
If you’re considering adding a bundle of joy to your family, you may be in for a surprise to find that getting pregnant isn’t necessarily as easy it seems. Still, there are plenty of low-tech ways that you and your partner can increase the odds of becoming parents.
If you're considering adding a bundle of joy to your family, you may be in for a surprise to find that getting pregnant isn't necessarily as easy it seems. Still, there are plenty of low-tech ways that you and your partner can increase the odds of becoming parents.
Ask any guy and he'll tell you that he believes it's the women in his life who are the emotional or vulnerable ones. Though that may be true in some circumstances, a recent study has found that men are actually the ones who are most affected by rocky relationships.
Ask any guy and he'll tell you that he believes it's the women in his life who are the emotional or vulnerable ones. Though that may be true in some circumstances, a recent study has found that men are actually the ones who are most affected by rocky relationships.
Approximately 3.9 billion prescriptions were filled in 2009-and 1.7 percent of which were wrongly dispensed. This translates into 66 million drug mistakes a year.
Consider the following scenario: You go to your doctor because you don't feel well. He performs a routine check-up and determines the only remedy to your ailment is a specific medication. He writes the prescription, which you then give to your pharmacist and begin the drug regimen.
There are many benefits nursing can bring, such as a special bond with your newborn and a boost to his immune system. However, for a few women, the very act of breastfeeding can put their own health at risk.
There are many benefits nursing can bring, such as a special bond with your newborn and a boost to his immune system. However, for a few women, the very act of breastfeeding can put their own health at risk,as it's possible that nursing can trigger mild allergy symptoms or even a serious anaphylaxis reaction.
Your birth control method: how well does it work? Here, 3 factors that may be affecting it.
Whether you're on the pill, have an IUD, or use condoms, you need to be extra vigilant about your birth control method in order to maximize its effectiveness. Forgetting to take a pill or buying a cheap condom can result in an unwanted pregnancy.
"When you average out all types of birth control, there is about a 3 percent failure rate," says Jennifer Wu, MD, an obstetrician-gynecologist at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City.
Whether you blow dry your hair daily or just for special occasions, your goal is to always look your best. But all your efforts will be in vain if you end up harming your hair.
Whether you blow dry your hair daily or just for special occasions, your goal is to look your best. But all your efforts will be in vain if you end up harming your hair. Here's a run-down of ways this popular practice can mess up your tresses—plus steps you can take to minimize the damage.
According to the National Cancer Institute, about 55 million pap smears are performed each year and of those, only 3.5 million are abnormal, requiring further medical follow-up.
When your doctor says, "We need to talk about your Pap Smear," it's natural to jump to the wrong conclusion. Worst case scenario: Your abnormal pap smear means cervical cancer. More likely scenario? Something else is going on that's far less scary.
Do you command attention? Are you quick to get into a fight? Did you engage in sex at an early age? While these questions may seem inquisitive, various studies suggest that these queries, among others, can be answered simply by the sound of your voice.
Do you command attention? Are you quick to get into a fight? Did you engage in sex at an early age? While these questions may seem inquisitive, various studies suggest that these queries, among others, can be answered simply by the sound of your voice.
Most women are all too familiar with the moodiness, cravings, cramps, and bloating that coincide with their menstrual cycle. But for those suffering from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), digestive symptoms tend to get worse during this time. Find out the reasons as well as what can be done to ease your symptoms.
Most women are all too familiar with the moodiness, food cravings, cramps and bloating that accompany their monthly menstrual cycle. But for many women suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn's disease, their symptoms appear to be worse.
It sounds so perfect: a libido-boosting pill for women that would magically erase all the cares, exhaustion and worries of the day and put her in the mood for sex. But while hopes ran high for a female version of Viagra, it appears that such a medication is not yet ready for prime time.
It sounds so perfect: a libido-boosting pill for women that would magically erase all the cares, exhaustion and worries of the day and put her in the mood for sex. But while hopes ran high for a female version of Viagra, it appears that such a medication is not yet ready for prime time.
A drug-resistant strain makes gonorrhea difficult to treat.
Gonorrhea might strike you as one of those diseases that antibiotics have all but vanquished, right?
Wrong. The sexually transmitted disease, the second most commonly reported one in the U.S., is actually an alarming health problem because it's becoming drug-resistant, and before too long, it may exist in a form that no antibiotic, however potent, can kill.
The oft-cited but confusing statistic that one out of eight women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime creates a lot of understandable anxiety among women. The fear of finding a lump, even if it's not cancerous, just adds to the stress. Here are a few of the common myths about breast lumps.
The oft-cited but confusing statistic that 1 out of 8 women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime creates a lot of understandable anxiety among women. The fear of finding a lump, even if it's not cancerous, just adds to the stress. Here are a few of the common myths about breast lumps.
Sometimes called female sterilization or "getting your tubes tied," tubal ligation is a surgical technique that prevents a man's sperm from reaching a woman's egg—thus preventing pregnancy. If you're considering this procedure, there are key factors you should consider.
Maybe you've decided your family is perfect and you don't want to have any more (or any at all) children. You can either continue using contraception until you or your partner goes through menopause or have surgery (vasectomy or tubal ligation) to make that decision permanent.
Do your hands look 10 years older than your face? It’s not surprising–the delicate skin is under constant attack from the sun, harsh agents, and constant use. Try these lifestyle changes to keep your hands feeling young.
Do your hands look 10 years older than your face? It's not surprising-the delicate skin is under constant attack from the sun, harsh agents, and constant use. Try these lifestyle changes to keep your hands feeling young.
1. Wear Gloves
Rubber gloves will protect your hands from harsh soap, chemicals, and even water that can break down your hands' natural oils.
In late 2009, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) created a brouhaha among cancer organizations, physicians, women's advocacy groups, and patients when it released its updated mammography screening recommendations. Here are the highlights from these guidelines.
In late 2009, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) created a brouhaha among cancer organizations, physicians, women's advocacy groups, and patients when it released its updated mammography screening recommendations. Here are the highlights from these guidelines.
When accidents happen, there’s a backup plan.
Neglected to use a condom or miscalculated your "safe days?" Don't stress out. Emergency contraception, also known as the morning-after pill, gives women some extra options, and a new one may be coming soon.
If you're weighing your options about backup...
The Pap smear, or Papanicolaou test, looks for abnormal changes on the cells of the cervix that may indicate cervical cancer.
Most women are accustomed to having a Pap smear as part of their regularly gynecological checkup. The Pap smear, or Papanicolaou test, looks for abnormal changes on the cells of the cervix (the narrow, lowest part of the uterus) that may indicate cervical cancer.
Genomics can map out the exact sequence of a person's DNA to come up with a comprehensive picture of that person's future health risks.
You've probably heard of genetic testing, which looks at single genes to determine if someone has an increased risk of a particular disease. But you may be less familiar with genomics, which is the study of someone's complete genetic code. With genomics, scientists map out the exact sequence of a person's DNA to come up with a comprehensive picture of that person's future health risks.
No matter how dedicated you’ve been to your diet and exercise routine, bloating can still strike. Here, seven ways to banish it.
No matter how dedicated you've been to your diet and exercise routine, bloating can still strike. According to the National Institutes of Health, it's more common among people who have intestinal disorders-such as Crohn's disease or irritable bowel syndrome-but it can affect anyone.
Bloating is never pleasant, but uncomfortable and irritating. Not only is bloating caused by foods and stress, but can also be induced by hormones. Find out how this happens and what you can do to prevent it.
Abdominal bloating-that uncomfortable feeling of tightness or fullness in the stomach caused by either a buildup of gas or fluid retention-is very common affecting about 30 percent of people. Bloating is especially common and bothersome in sufferers of irritable bowel syndrome and is the result of gas trapped inside the bowel.
While sweating is an essential function that helps your body stay cool, you don't have to walk around with armpit stains on all your shirts.
Tired of walking around with your elbows held in tight, trying to hide those armpit stains? While most people sweat when they exercise, or are nervous, anxious, or under stress, walking around with sweat stains can be embarrassing.
For some people, the answer to put an end to armpit stains may be simple: an over-the-counter antiperspirant.
Why does menopause get all the attention when it's actually perimenopause that brings those infamous symptoms? Here's a rundown of the time leading up to menopause.
Why does menopause get all the attention when it's actually perimenopause that brings those infamous symptoms? Because, most people don't know there's a difference. Understanding perimenopause however, might help women enter a new time of life healthier, happier and more in control.
Here, warning signs that show you when it's time to call things off.
Like the song proclaims, "Breaking-up is hard to do." Futhermore, ending a relationship in which you were truly invested and severing all ties can be the most painful experience of all.
So how can you tell when it's time to stick it out and work on the relationship, or admit things aren't working and move on? Here, 10 signs to look for that will tell you it's time to split.
Here, ingredients for the perfect pre-sex meal and how to choose the menu for a love-fest feast.
Of course setting the stage for great sex involves the obvious--candles, soft music, low lights, and maybe some rose pedals. But why not also whip up a sensual feast to put you both in the mood for amore? Enjoying a meal that's light, yet slightly exotic and replete with the foods that encourage romance gives both of you the delicious opportunity to share a feast as you anticipate what's to come after dessert.
Tampons are among the most popular feminine hygiene products. But rumors claim they contain asbestos, rayon, and dioxin-chemicals that are associated with cancer, Toxic Shock Syndrome, and other serious health risks. But are these fears realistic?
Tampons are among the most popular feminine hygiene products. But rumors claim they contain asbestos, rayon, and dioxin-chemicals that are associated with cancer, Toxic Shock Syndrome, and other serious health risks. But are these fears realistic? Let's sort fact from fiction about tampon safety.
How new moms can rev up an appetite for romance.
The only thing an exhausted new mother wants to do when she's lucky enough to fall into bed is sleep. Husbands may be okay with the no-sex routine for awhile—they're exhausted, too—but then they start wondering whether they've been permanently displaced by an tiny intruder whose needs must be met 24/7 and who seems to know just when Mom and Dad are trying to have a little alone time.
Does your 'do need some youthful invigoration? If so, try these tips for rolling back the clock on your tresses.
Does your do need some youthful invigoration? Try these tips for rolling back the clock on your tresses.
Chop Long Hair to Chin Length
Shorter cuts offer an infusion of energy and sex appeal because they show off your face and skin. They suggest that anyone will look good in a bob, especially women with very straight hair.
Health experts have long linked processed foods, such as hot dogs, sausages, and most lunchmeats to many forms of cancers, including esophageal, lung, pancreatic, stomach, colorectal, endometrial, and prostate. Now they’ve added ovarian cancer to the list.
Health experts have long linked processed foods, such as hot dogs, sausages, and most lunchmeats to many forms of cancers, including esophageal, lung, pancreatic, stomach, colorectal, endometrial, and prostate. Now they've added ovarian cancer to the list.
Fruits and vegetables are some of the healthiest foods you can eat—unless they're contaminated with dirt, pesticides, or harmful bacteria. So before you take your first bite, make sure you follow these six steps.
Fruits and vegetables are some of the healthiest foods you can eat-unless they're contaminated with dirt or harmful bacteria. Since foodborne illnesses have sometimes been linked to fresh produce, it's important to wash what you eat.
The first rule for washing fresh produce is to wash your own hands.
Don't be so fast to assume it's your partner who is responsible for your STD.
If you've just tested positive for a sexually transmitted disease (STD), you may be pointing the finger of blame at your partner. After all, you two have been monogamous, and before you were together, there's no way you could have been infected, right?
Don't be so fast to assume it's your partner who is responsible for your STD.
You may be worried about mixing allergy shots and pregnancy and wonder if this practice will put your unborn child in any danger.
Does it seem like your allergies have gotten worse since you've been pregnant? If so, it's probably not your imagination. During pregnancy, your body undergoes a variety of changes that can make you feel pretty miserable. For some women, this includes an increase in allergy symptoms.
When it comes to smoking, and quitting, men and women are different. Understanding the distinctions can give you a leg up when you're ready to face the difficult task of quitting.
When it comes to smoking--and quitting--men and women are different. Understanding the distinctions between them can give you a leg up when you're ready to face the difficult task of quitting.
The Differences
Men tend to smoke from habit or to enhance positive sensations, while women often smoke as a buffer against negative feelings.
When sex hurts after menopause, you'll look for guidance. Here, tips for how to make intercourse feel good once again.
Menopause isn't called the change of life for nothing. Sleep habits change (for the worse), your mood changes (minute to minute), and your hair changes (gets thinner). But perhaps the most unexpected change of all has to do with your sex life. Not only is intercourse downright uncomfortable, but it can actually be painful.
Too many of us find a doctor by picking one randomly from a list of practitioners who accept our insurance. Or we simply choose someone close to our home.
Have you ever wondered how doctors find doctors for themselves and their families? We all could take a tip from physicians when it comes to evaluating other medical professionals. Too many people find a doctor by picking one randomly from a list of practitioners who accept their insurance.
Most of the time, a bloody nose is just a messy nuisance. Occasionally, however it can signal more serious medical conditions.
Nosebleeds are common, messy, and sometimes scary-but how serious are they? Fortunately, most of the time a bloody nose is just a nuisance. Occasionally, however it can signal more serious medical conditions.
The formal medical names for a nosebleed is epistaxis or nasal hemorrhage.
As part of the American Heart Association's focus on women and heart health, the organization initiated new guidelines in 2007 to help doctors evaluate women's risk factors for cardiac disease. Three years later, how well are these guidelines working?
In 2007, the American Heart Association (AHA) initiated new guidelines to predict which women would develop heart disease. As part of the AHA's new focus on women and heart health, these new guidelines help doctors evaluate women's risk factors for cardiac disease.
Few people pay much attention to their urine, but the truth is, it can tell you a lot about your health. For example, if you have kidney stones, diabetes, or certain forms of cancer, the first clue is often is often in the urine.
Few people pay attention to their urine unless there's a problem or they're taking a pregnancy test. But the truth is, urine can tell you a lot about your health. Here, answers to some of the most common questions about urine-as well as key facts and information.
A lot changes when you age. Here, the sexual changes you and your partner may experience.
Let's face it, growing older means facing some physical changes--graying hair, some wrinkles, maybe a few extra pounds that stay stubbornly on the hips. But aging brings changes in sexuality, too. Every person's experience is different and to some extent, age is less of a predictor of changes in sexuality than health.
One day they're pregnant and the next, they're movie star slim again. How do Julia, Halle, and others do it? Read on to discover how celebrities get fit so fast after becoming new moms.
One day they're pregnant and the next, they're movie star slim again. How do celebrities get fit so fast after becoming new moms?
Most of their secrets are simply common sense fitness facts: eating smart, working out, and drinking lots of water. Celebrity moms who drop the weight fast usually don't have too much to lose.
If you suffer from depression and plan to become pregnant, you may be understandably concerned about the effect of depression and treatment on your unborn child.
If you suffer from depression and plan to become pregnant, you may be understandably concerned about the effect of depression and treatment on your unborn child. It may help to know you are not alone. Studies show that up to 12 percent of pregnant women also experience depression.
Ever wonder why sex feels so good? Here’s what happens to your body when you make love.
Your body is like a pleasure powerhouse that cycles through a series of sexual responses each time you and a partner have sex. The phases of response differ somewhat for men and for women, but they both follow a fairly set physiological pattern, experts say.
Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in women over 45, and the fourth most common cancer in women. When detected and treated early, however, endometrial cancer patients have extremely good survival odds.
Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in women over 45, and the fourth most common cancer in women. In 2008, about 40,000 women were diagnosed with endometrial cancer. When detected and treated early, however, endometrial cancer patients have extremely good survival odds.
Which option is best for for you? Read on to find out.
Diabetic women of child-bearing age may well wonder if the birth control pill is a healthy option for them. The answer depends upon her age and her general health, experts say.
Young, healthy diabetic women should not have a problem with the birth control pill, says Millicent Comrie, MD, chair of the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Long Island College Hospital in New York.
Despite what you might think, talking about others has its benefits.
"Pssssst! Did you hear what she said? He did what? How could she have said that?"
Whether it's a whispered conversation over coffee with a friend or a late-night telephone gabfest with your sister, gossiping bestows a feel-good aura on women who are feeling stressed-out, jilted or just having a bad day.
Research suggests TV-viewing can be a deadly pastime.
Americans watch more than five hours of television per day on average, according to a 2008 study conducted by the Neilsen Company. While you may have your weekly "must-watch" show , you may consider doing something else with those 25+ hours that you usually spend plopped in front of the television.
Learn how to get into online dating and get the results you desire.
Whether it's the commericials you've seen on T.V. or the stories friends have regaled you with at dinner, you've heard the stories of people meeting Mr. or Mrs. Right through online dating. Still, you're a little wary of the whole idea. (Don't just people who are desperate use the sites? Isn't it dangerous?)
Online Dating for Dummies
Here are the top 11 strategies for first timers, from Mary Jo Rapini, LPC, a relationship expert, and Irina Firstein, LSCW.
How and when’s is essential to communicating sensitive information.
Embarrassment, shame, or the fear that your partner will want to end your relationship. Any of these could be the reason for not being forthright about a particular health condition. Whether it's a sexually transmitted disease, a chronic disorder like multiple sclerosis, or an invisible but life-impacting illness such as fibromyalgia, there just hasn't been the right time to discuss it.
Yeast infections can be annoying, irritating, and itchy, but are they dangerous? Well, not usually. Find out when you should be worried.
Yeast infections can be annoying, irritating, and itchy, but are they dangerous? Well, not usually. But sometimes, persistent yeast infections can signal other health problems and in very rare cases, can cause infections in other parts of the body.
According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, 75 percent of women will get a yeast infection at some time in their lifetime, and nearly half will get more than one.
An easy way to help prevent breast cancer and increase survival in breast cancer patients may be as close as your medicine cabinet. Two new studies add to the growing body of evidence that aspirin could possibly play a role inhibiting the development and recurrence of breast cancer.
An easy way to help prevent breast cancer and increase survival in breast cancer patients may be as close as your medicine cabinet. Two new studies add to the growing body of evidence that aspirin could possibly play a role inhibiting the development and recurrence of breast cancer.
It not only feels good, it’s good for you, too!
What if someone told you that there was a pleasurable "treatment" that would relieve stress, give you more energy, boost your mood, act as a sleep aid, and keep you free of sexually transmitted diseases? You might wonder what wondrous pill you'd have to pop in order to get all these life-enhancing benefits.
How one celebrity copes and thrives.
She's not the only public person to have diabetes. Nick Jonas of the Jonas Brothers, boxing legend Sugar Ray Leonard, and Sonia Sotomayor on the Supreme Court all have the disease, Mary Tyler Moore, however, not only has Type 1 diabetes, she has written a book about her own experiences, Growing Up Again: Life, Loves And Oh Yeah, Diabetes, and she has campaigned tirelessly for more research to find a cure.
A guide to preventing a herpes outbreak.
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) aren't something that most people take lightly. They conjure up visions of dire complications, they hurt and, let's face it, they are embarrassing to talk about with your partner or your doctor.
They're also very common.
You've seen him or her at work: aggressive, racing against the clock, competitive, always multitasking. The typical type A personality type. Recently, experts have examined whether personality type plays a role in workplace stress. They found personality type did, and didn't, correlate to stress.
You've seen him or her at work: aggressive, racing against the clock, competitive, always multitasking. The typical type A personality type. Recently, experts have examined whether personality type plays a role in workplace stress. They found personality type did-and didn't-correlate to stress.
The G spot. What is it and where is it? More importantly, does it even exist?
The G-spot is an elusive pleasure zone that some women swear provides them with an intense sexual experience and some researchers doubt even exists. While it has never been definitively located, many women believe they have a small area in the front of their vagina that, when stimulated, results in an intense orgasm.
Relationships with mothers and stepmothers can be very confusing, but don’t give up. Aim to find common ground.
Mother's Day is supposed to be a day to honor and celebrate the efforts of your mother or stepmother. But for many of us, the holiday can seem like a chore and emotional torture at worst.
Here are three of the most common "Mother-Adult Child" scenarios in families on Mother's Day.
Make sense of your scents. Make perfume or cologne work for you.
Our sense of smell is so powerful that a whiff of a freshly baked apple pie brings us right back to the warm security of Grandma's kitchen, a piney aroma evokes Christmases past, and the lingering scent of cologne or perfume can be a turn-on or a turnoff.
If you’ve been with a few women, you may think you know a lot about sex. But with some bedroom experience you soon learn that what is a turn on for one woman is a deal-breaker for another. Good sex means using your brain as much as your body.
If you've been with a few women, you may think you know a lot about sex. But as you gain bedroom experience, you'll soon learn that what is a turn on for one woman is a deal-breaker for another. Good sex means using your brain as much as your body.
Sex Mistake #1: Thinking sex is only physical
Guys tend to get caught up in the physicality of sex.
Hair not cooperating? Before you reach for a hat, try these tips from stylist Jocelyn Dunnavant to tackle your particular problem.
Having a morning when your hair won't cooperate? Before you reach for a hat, try these tips from Slope Suds Salon stylist Jocelyn Dunnavant to tackle your particular problem.
Bed-head and cowlicks: Use a spray bottle filled with water to re-wet the problem areas, comb it into place, and re-dry it.
Read on for a rundown of the most common pelvic problems so that you can recognize a problem before it becomes too severe.
There's a lot going on between women's pelvic bones. In addition to our reproductive organs, the pelvis contains our bladder, intestines and pelvic floor (a group of muscles that holds everything in place). Pelvic disorders are common. Here, five common pelvic disorders.
Boredom may be shaving years off of your life, scientists have found.
In a commentary to be published in the International Journal of Epidemiology in April 2010, experts say there's a possibility that the more bored you are, the more likely you are to die early.
Researchers from the Department of Epidemiology and Public Health at University College London analyzed over 7500 interviews, from 1985 to 1988, with British civil servants aged between 35 and 55 that asked whether they'd felt bored at work.
It’s possible to be too nice, experts say.
Do mean jerks always come out on top? Not really, but it sure seems that way sometimes. It's enough to make kind, considerate and caring people actually ponder getting a little pushier, more selfish, and more into self-promotion.
You might not want to change those inner good qualities just yet.
Women must deal with some complications that men don’t. Here, the diabetes complications no one talks about.
If you are a woman with diabetes, you must be extra vigilant about certain conditions. The good news is that you're less likely to get some of them if your blood sugar is in good control, says Jeffrey Powell, MD, endocrinologist at the Mount Kisco Medical Group in Mount Kisco, New York.
The right and wrong way to enhance your romance with texting, email and social networking sites.
Modern technology is a mixed blessing when it comes to romance. On one level, social networking sites, texting, and emailing have made it much easier to date. But these forms of communication have also made dating more complicated. There are no set rules, no established guidelines, and no code of etiquette to follow.
How to determine if you two would have a red hot love life.
You've met a great guy or girl and the future looks bright. But will your sex life sizzle, and more importantly, will it stay hot?
Love at first sight doesn't always happen, and it can take awhile for a deeply satisfying relationship to thrive and grow.
It works for some people, but not for the long haul.
In a recent episode of "Grey's Anatomy," Alex and Lexie, two of the doctors who aren't romantically involved, engage in a "no feelings" quickie, as it's referred to in the show's episode recap.
Unlike the fictional characters in ABC's hit TV series, having sex with a friend just for sex's sake is not uncommon.
Recent studies have raised concern about the safety of antidepressants in women who are, or hope to become, pregnant.
Recent studies have raised concern about the safety of antidepressants in women who are, or hope to become, pregnant. The type of antidepressants in question are SSRIs--selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter. Although scientists are not exactly sure how SSRIs work, they appear to block the body's ability to reabsorb serotonin, which improves mood.
Want to have a great evening together? Here’s what to talk about.
You've made a restaurant reservation, switched in and out of three different outfits, and inspected your appearance so many times you've lost count. You're about to spend your first evening ever with someone with potential, but you feel tongue-tied. What can you find to talk about that will be mutually interesting?
"Keep it light, fun, entertaining and interesting," advises Stacy Kaiser, licensed psychotherapist and relationship expert.
How to whip up the perfect recipe for a stress-free and enjoyable evening.
The time is set, the meeting place arranged. The mirror confirms that your hair and outfit look great. Then what's with the butterflies in your stomach? The perfect date is well within your grasp, experts say, whether you're single or married. You just need to keep a few pointers in mind.
Sex has innumerable benefits, and growing evidence is proving that improved heart health is one of them.
While evidence has been building about the overall health benefits of sexual activity, including easing depression and stress and relieving pain, a new study has found that men who have sex twice a week have a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
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Read on to learn what half a century has brought us in terms of what we know about this widely used method of contraception.
Fifty years ago, one of the greatest health advancements hit the market: The birth control pill. Today, the pill is all grown up and includes low-dose pills, continuous (no period) pills, patches, and rings. It's even used to treat acne, migraines, and other health issues.
What causes muscle cramps in the first place, and how can they be avoided?
If you've ever had a muscle cramp or charley horse, you know how painful they are. They're unpredictable and tend to strike during sleep, exercise, or when you've held one position for too long. But what causes muscle cramps, and how can they be avoided?
What Are Muscle Cramps?
Muscle cramps are caused by sudden, involuntary contraction of one or more muscles.
There are numerous causes of infertility and almost as many treatments. Some women are concerned that pursing infertility treatments may increase their risk for uterine cancer. If you’ve taken, or are considering, infertility treatments, here’s what you need to know.
The inability to conceive is frustrating and disappointing for any woman who aspires to raise a family. So, it's no wonder why many couples turn to fertility treatments to improve their chances of becoming pregnant. There are numerous causes of infertility and almost as many treatments.
When it comes to sex, women and men truly do seem to inhabit different planets.
When it comes to sex, women and men truly do seem to inhabit different planets. Women tend to have a very strong emotional connection to sex that men simply aren't saddled with, explains Cheryl Pappas, Ph.D., a psychotherapist and social commentator.
Men just do not have the need to be as connected emotionally to a partner as a woman does when having sex, she says.
Killer abs may not be linked to better sex, but another body part is.
Disappointed that you don't have time to both spend at the gym and in bed with your sweetie? That's not to say that you can't occasionally use sex as a form of exercise, says Cathie Helfand, MS, a marriage and sex therapist. "Using sex as a workout from time to time can help trim the body," she explains.
By making the following changes to your diet, fitness, and even bedroom behaviors, you can enjoy great health in this new stage of your life.
Most women who have had a hysterectomy report feeling much healthier, once they recover from operation and the conditions that led to surgery are resolved. But what lifestyle changes should you expect or plan to make after a hysterectomy? That depends on your age and if you still have your ovaries.
Learn how to get it right when you want easier intimacy with the guy in your life.
If sex unsatisfying, don't rush to point the finger your male partner. In fact, the blame could be put on none other than yourself. All too often, sexual misunderstandings can be cleared up by better communication, experts say. If you want to jump start your sex life, see which of these mistakes you're guilty of, and what you can do to right them.
Learn more about this common condition, plus get tips on how to ease the pain.
If you experience severe headaches around the time of your period, you could be suffering from menstrual migraines. But, you're not alone. Approximately 70 percent of migraine sufferers are female, and 60 to 70 percent report their migraines are related to their menstrual cycle.
Just like other parts of a woman's body, the vagina changes over the course of her lifetime. Here, a step-by-step account of these changes, from birth to menopause.
The vagina. What most people see, right from the start, is actually the vulva, the plump folds of skin that include the labia majora (outside lips), labia minora (inside lips), clitoris, and urethra. The vagina itself is a muscular tube that connects the internal reproductive organs (cervix, uterus and fallopian tubes) to the outside of the body.
Your sex drive’s not gone, it just needs revving up. Rekindle romance in your relationship.
If you're feeling apathetic and disinterested in intimacy with your partner these days, the first person to call is your doctor. A variety of prescription medications as well as even small illnesses can kill off sexual desire—and once it happens, you can start to lose confidence in the bedroom.
Can kissing help you pick a compatible mate? Studies say it could.
Kissing feels good, but it serves even more of a purpose than that. It's a great way to check out how compatible you are with the one you're kissing, says Tina B. Tessina, Ph.D., LMFT, and author of The Unofficial Guide to Dating Again.
"Kissing is a way to tell if you fit together physically," she says.
Kindle a romance by knowing when to smile and when to start up a conversation.
We've all done it--cast an extra glance at a person who looks attractive, occasionally smiling, maybe striking up a conversation. Flirting is fun, it's sociable, and it can lead to an enduring romance. That said, there's an unwritten code of behavior that should be followed when you flirt.
Taking part in a healthy marriage may make you happier in all aspects of your life.
Think about this next time you and your spouse are in an argument. Despite all your squabbling and minor skirmishes, marriage is actually good for you. That's the result of a study of 34,493 people in 15 countries over a 10 year period. The study was based on surveys conducted by the World Health Organization's World Mental Health (WMH) which appeared in the journal Psychological Medicine.
Stuck in a sexual rut? Read these tips to rev up your sex life with your partner.
Yes, it is often true that the heat of passion dips in even great relationships. The first two years of dating and marriage are usually the hottest--sexually speaking. Your love hormone, oxytocin, is high, and you feel close, alive, special, and very sexual.
If you think dehydration only occurs outside during the summertime, you're sorely mistaken.
When you think of staying hydrated, the warm summer months may come to mind. And while it's important to avoid dehydration when working or playing outdoors in summer's heat, it's just as crucial to maintain appropriate fluid levels when the temperature falls and you spend more time in heated indoor environments.
Read on to find out how to soothe your cold sore symptoms, or reduce your outbreaks altogether.
All About Cold Sores
Cold sores, aka "fever blisters", are small blisters that occur around the mouth and occasionally in your nostrils, fingers, chin, gums, or roof of your mouth. They can tingle and ache before and during the blister formation, which usually lasts for a week to 10 days before it crusts and peels away.
Here’s how to treat and prevent an annoying and painful occurrence.
It may or may not cause symptoms, it can start out subtly and if not treated, it can progress to a more serious infection. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are much more frequent in women than in men, and they're even more frequent in women with diabetes.
You'll both experience sexual satisfaction when you tell each other what feels good.
It's an all-too-common scenario: A spouse feels overworked, underappreciated and overwhelmed with a job, household and kids to care for. Resentment and exhaustion take their toll, and she feels less and less like having sex. With a busy life, there just isn't time for everything, let alone having an all night lovefest.
Ovarian cysts are common for women during childbearing years, but most never realize they have them. Occasionally one can rupture, though, causing severe pain and serious side effects.
Ovarian cysts are common for women during childbearing years, but most never realize they have them. Occasionally one can rupture, though, causing severe pain and serious side effects. So, when is an ovarian cyst an emergency-and how do you know if you have one?
The ovaries are two small organs located on either side of the uterus.
Back pain is one of the more common symptoms of PMS, and can range from a small ache to debilitating pain.
An estimated three of every four menstruating women experience some form of premenstrual syndrome, according to the Mayo Clinic. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) has a wide variety of symptoms and can affect a woman mentally, emotionally and physically. These symptoms can range from irritability, anxiety, depression and aggression to nausea, breast swelling, abdominal cramping and back pain.
The hormones in oral contraceptives may make boyish-looking guys more attractive to women.
Pretty boys like Zac Ephron and Chace Crawford are modern-day sex symbols, which is quite a switch from the 1950s and 1960s. Back then, the rugged, very masculine look was in vogue, and Sean Connery, Marlon Brandon and Steve McQueen were considered the heart stoppers of the day.
Although middle-age men still have higher rates of heart attacks and heart disease than middle-age women, a recent study suggests that the gap might be closing.
A study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine looked at national survey data of more than 4,000 men and women, ages 35 to 54, during two time periods: from 1988 through 1994 and from 1999 through 2004. While during both time periods, men had more heart attacks than women, the rates of heart attacks in men improved from 2.
Studies suggest that a fiber-filled diet may cause problems for women wishing to conceive.
Women who want to get pregnant are often among the healthiest eaters. They stock up on high-fiber foods such fruits, vegetables and whole grains so they'll be at their best for pregnancy. A new study however, suggests that a fiber-filled diet may actually cause some women to ovulate less; and this could be a factor in infertility.
Postpartum depression is a common, and troublesome, occurrence. Psychologist Debra Warner explores the issue in her weekly column.
Pregnancy can be a wonderful time in a woman's life. For many women however, pregnancy is marked by a struggle with depression. Research estimates that nearly 20 percent of pregnant women contend with depressive symptoms. Warning signs of depression can be especially difficult to spot during pregnancy because some of them resemble normal issues experienced by expectant mothers.
Approximately 75 percent of women will develop uterine fibroids during or after her childbearing years—but most will never realize they have them.
Approximately 75 percent of women will develop uterine fibroids during or after her childbearing years. Most will never know they have them. Sometimes, however, uterine fibroids become troublemakers - causing pain, bleeding and rarely, infertility.
Here’s all you need to know--and why you need to talk to your teen.
There's a lot of misinformation floating around about STDs these days, and it's a subject no one likes to broach with their teenager. Regardless of how uncomfortable it may be, it's a conversation that needs to happen, since teens who are sexually active are at high risk for an STD.
Sometimes it's as simple as just listening and offering her a warm hug. When your woman is feeling stressed, here's how to help.
Sure, you can't take your woman's stress away. However, you can often lift her spirits and make her feel better, experts say, by offering a sympathetic ear, solace, and an embrace.
"I tell men, if you want to score points with her, you have to learn to just listen," says Ingrid Schweiger, Ph.
Innocent behaviors such as social drinking, dieting, and relieving back pain through a doctor-prescribed medication can unsuspectingly be a gateway to harmful behavior for some people and ultimately death.
When you are out at a party enjoying a glass of wine, strategizing your next diet, or swallowing the seemingly innocent painkiller that your doctor prescribed, death may be the last thing on your mind. However, for some people, these innocent behaviors can unsuspectingly turn a corner toward harmful behavior, later leading to their death.
Can this latest type of lingerie really work wonders on tired, sagging breasts?
Most of us will end up with a bust line that points south sooner or later, but bra innovators claim that liquid bras can work wonders on tired, sagging breasts. But can they really help?
Why Breasts Sag
Breasts consist of muscles, layered with fat, and covered by skin, with ligaments leading from the skin to the muscles to hold them in place.
Find out how communication breakdowns can cause real emotional issues down the road.
Studies have shown that men and women have very different communication styles. Some experts have even gone so far as to describe these different styles as completely different languages. Many authorities attribute communication differences to disparities in the way that men and women think.
When it really comes down to it, how safe is this popular cleansing routine?
The ads portray laughing women running through flowery fields. The commercials make claims about all-natural ingredients. But when it really comes down to it, how safe is douching? While as many as 40 percent of women say they douche regularly, douching is nothing to laugh about and far from natural.
Five classic excuses that scream insincerity.
Honesty is always the best approach when considering a breakup. But it's difficult because the person who's doing the breaking up doesn't want to hurt the other person's feelings, explains relationship expert Ingrid Schweiger, Ph.D. "We are afraid to be honest and we fear confrontation," she says.
Read on for five things that could be throwing your period out of whack.
It's normal for your period to be lighter, heavier, earlier, or later than usual, especially if you're adolescent or perimenopausal. Most women have periods every 24 to 34 days, lasting for three to seven days. A small percentage of women have periods more often than every 21 days or less often than every 35 days, and this might be entirely normal for them.
The disturbing truth about emotional affairs is that they’re harder on a marriage than purely physical flings.
If you've ever wondered whether an emotional affair is as damaging as one that involves mostly sex, the answer is yes--maybe even more so. That's the word from relationship experts, who say it can be harder to break off an affair when it's purely an emotional thing.
No woman looks forward to her gynecological exam, but if an appointment feels more uncomfortable than usual or your doctor is overly judgmental, it may be time to look elsewhere.
No woman looks forward to her gynecological exam, but if an appointment feels more uncomfortable than usual or your doctor is overly judgmental, it may be time to look elsewhere. Read on for 5 reasons why it may be time to fire your gynecologist.
1) Your gynecologist doesn't show respect.
Is mineral makeup worth all the hype? Check out these FAQs to find out.
Proponents of mineral makeup claim that it not only gives you great coverage and looks completely natural, but it can also clear up acne and soften your skin. So, is it worth all the hype? Check out these FAQ's to find out.
What Is It?
Mineral makeup consists of various combinations of natural minerals like zinc oxide, bismuth oxychloride, talc, mica, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, combined with natural pigments.
When the two of you can’t hear what the other one is saying, you may need to address your communication skills.
Men and women communicate differently, experts say. When we talk with each other, men tend to sit side by side rather than face to face, which seems unconfrontational to them, says Mary Jo Rapini, LPC, an intimacy/sex relationship psychotherapist. And men often don't make eye contact when they talk, she says, because they find it "threatening.
A married couple who live in the same house, eat the same foods, and engage in the same activities should have life expectancies that are equal, shouldn't they?
It's no secret that women generally live longer than men, often by as much as ten years. Check out any senior center or nursing home and chances are you'll find more (sometimes many more) women. Widows far outnumber widowers in this country and others.
Talking to your doctor about menopause can help ease your symptoms and make for an easier transition into this new stage of life.
Million of women are going through "the change" and dealing with menopause symptoms that can last a long time. The four-to-six years leading up to your final period are called Perimenopause. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG) says, " Menopause happens around age 51, but every woman's body has its own timeline .
Studies show that overweight women were at a greater risk of antisocial, paranoid, and avoidant personality disorders.
According to new research published in Psychosomatic Medicine, overweight and obese women are more likely to have antisocial personality disorder, paranoid personality disorder, and extreme social phobia than their leaner peers.
Dr. Jitender Sareen of the University of Manitoba and his colleagues suggest in their report that obesity in women could cause antisocial and paranoid personality disorders and vice versa.
There's more reason than ever to get your daily five servings.
A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is key to good health. Now, women have more reason than ever to make sure they get their daily five servings. Folate-rich diets have been linked to a decreased risk of colorectal cancers.
Citrus fruits, peas, beans and leafy green vegetables are all high in folate; a water-soluble B Vitamin that plays a key role in copying DNA.
Food and sex are two of life's great pleasures. However, sustained overeating leads to unwanted weight gain. This often produces unexpected consequences such as squelching your interest in sex.
Prolonged stress–such as many of us are experiencing during the current recession--increases the likelihood we will develop unhealthy ways to cope. These inadequate behaviors take a toll on our overall health and vitality and may even put the kibosh on our sex drive.
The body’s sexy zones can be just about anywhere you can reach.
It's easy for men to become sexually aroused. For women, though, sex may seem like just another "task" in their busy day-to-day. This can be because of their crazy schedules and an unwillingness to ask for what they want in the bedroom, according to LiveScience, and so women may tend to just settle for so-so sex.
Recognize the signs of being a workaholic and learn what to do to protect your health.
As more Americans put in 60, 70, or 80 hours at work each week, concerns about the health consequences increase. In some cases, workaholism fuelled by fear, a need for financial security, or even poor self esteem.
Being a workaholic isn't all bad. In some cases, it results in products and services that benefit millions such as the light bulb or telephone.
When it comes to rules about getting mammograms, who's right?
For years, it's been medical protocol that women get a baseline mammogram at age 35 and a yearly one starting at age 40. But recently the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), cited by the government as an "independent panel of experts in primary care and prevention," raised questions by issuing a recommendation that women between the ages of 40 and 49 not get yearly mammograms.
Don’t let life’s stresses tempt you to settle in love. Give and take, yes. Settle, no.
Tough times often make us choose or stay with partners we might not select when our lives are more stable. Increased family responsibilities and long hours at work leave less time and energy to meet new potential dates and mates. Furthermore the economic downturn puts greater financial burdens on singles and main earners.
Certain products and procedures can help to significantly minimize the appearance of this common cosmetic problem.
If stretch marks are strewn along your stomach, hips, or thighs, you may think there's nothing you can do about this unsightly problem. But the truth is, certain treatments can help to significantly reduce their appearance.
Stretch marks are caused by a stretching of the skin, combined with elevated cortisone levels.
Learn about a surprising side effect of this common therapy.
Menopausal women who take hormone replacement therapy (HRT) have had plenty to worry about for the past several years. But now, they may have reason to celebrate. A new study conducted by researchers at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, confirms what scientists have suspected for a while: Older women who take hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms may have a significantly reduced risk of developing colorectal cancer.
If you and your spouse are in a sexless union, you might need some relationship Rx.
A sexless marriage. While it's not something you'd want to participate in, experts estimate that nearly 15 to 20 percent of American couples aren't being inimate regularly.
It's the very rare marriage in which both spouses are happy with a no-sex policy, says Israel Helfand, marriage counselor, sex therapist and member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists.
The health benefits outweigh the side effects, experts say.
If you're the parent of a tween or teen girl, you probably know about the HPV vaccine, commonly known as Gardasil, which was approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006. The first vaccine developed to prevent cervical cancer, precancerous genital lesions and genital warts due to human papillomavirus (HPV), the three-shot regimen is recommended by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) for girls ages 11 and 12 and "catch-up" shots for girls 13 to 26.
Studies are giving gals even more reason to put out that cigarette for good.
Women's reasons for smoking are often different than men's. They may smoke because they want help with weight loss. They may think it makes them appear more glamorous, independent, or mature. Young women may smoke simply because that's what their mother's did.
Even if you buy organic food, go for regular runs, and stay far away from smokers, your best efforts are going to be in vain if you commit certain slip-ups.
You buy organic food, go for regular runs, use fat-free dressing on your salad, and strenuously avoid being near people who smoke. You can relax-you're doing as much as you can to stay healthy, right? Wrong! You may be surprised that some of the smartest, most educated people around make health mistakes that are easily corrected.
Sure a massage feels good (great, actually), but did you know it can have a host of health benefits, too?
See what people are saying about this article on our Facebook page!
If you've always thought massage was something only pampered spa clients indulge in, you might want to reconsider. Massage, aside from feeling wonderful, actually delivers a host of legitimate health benefits.
Emotions run high after recovering from breast cancer and rightfully so. Here, a guide to coping with changes in body image and treatment-related sexual problems.
The National Cancer Institute reports that about half of women treated for breast cancer experience some form of long-term sexual dysfunction. Increasingly, younger women are being diagnosed with breast cancer. These women are particularly vulnerable to, or distressed by, treatment-related sexual problems.
Find out how a hefty handbag can harm your health.
If you're like most women, you love shopping for a new purse. But aside from such considerations as style, fabric, color and price, there's one very important factor that should influence your buying decision: the size of the bag. In addition to being quite functional and a current fashion statement, oversized purses can cause you pain, particularly if you load them up with all of the daily gear you just can't live without.
You may be pleasantly surprised to learn how easy it is.
If you have trouble attaining orgasm, you're far from alone. Surveys show that about a quarter of American women report they have some sort of orgasm related problems. Some women say they can't have one at all, which is called anorgasmia, while others can only get close but can't seem to climax.
Can your weight determine the effectiveness of your oral contraceptive? Read on to find out.
We've known for awhile that birth control pills might be less effective for heavy women. A study reported in 2005 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists found that overweight women had a 60 percent greater and obese women a 70 percent greater chance of unintentional pregnancy while on the pill than women of normal weight.
In some instances, refraining from sex may benefit your love life.
Generally, the lack of sex in a relationship signals a problem. "People can rationalize it away, but when couples stop having sex it often means there is conflict," says Dr. Scott Wetzler, a psychologist at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. "Our sexuality is part of who we are and it's healthy to have sex.
Read on to find out where you're skimping—and how you can get more disease-busting power into your meals.
Many women aren't getting enough of five essential nutrients that could make a big difference to their health. While all are readily available through a healthy diet, many of us don't eat as well as we could. Read on for why we're skimping and what to do about it.
Here's what you can do to stay emotionally healthy during this important period of your life.
Women deal with tremendous changes during their 40s and 50s. Kids leave home, their parents become more dependent, and career goals may change. And then there's menopause. Approximately 75 percent of women experience symptoms in the years leading up to their last period.
Do you really need to be completely honest with your doctor? The answer may surprise you.
You're in the exam room in your doctor's office, and it's the moment of truth. She's just asked you a personal question, one you'd rather not answer. Only your best friend knows the facts on this one. In fact, just thinking about it makes you squirm....
An uncommon condition in some women causes itching and burning during intimacy, but fortunately, it is treatable.
Not tonight, dear, I'm allergic. This excuse sounds even less plausible than a headache but it can actually be a valid one: a small number of women actually are allergic to their partner's seminal fluid.
In fact, between 20,000 and 40,000 women in the United States may have this allergy, Dr.
If you’ve had heavy periods your entire life, you may blame it on bad luck or bad genetics. The truth is, excess bleeding could be a sign of something more: a clotting disorder.
Heavy menstrual bleeding is par for the course for some women. Their mother had it, their sisters have it, and they figure there's nothing that can be done about it. For some women, however, it may be a sign of a bigger health problem. In fact, studies that indicate heavy periods might be caused by a blood clotting disorder.
In 2006, the Food and Drug Administration approved Gardisall, a vaccination to prevent cervical cancer. We know for a fact that HPV—human papilloma virus—causes cervical cancer. Although less common, HPV can also cause other cancers as well.
What is HPV?
HPV is actually 100 related viruses. Each represents a different type of HPV. Some of them cause warts or papillomas, which are non-cancerous tumors. HPV viruses live in the moist cells (called squamous epithelial cells) that line the organs and cavities in our body that open to the outside, such as the mouth and anus.
Study sheds new light on the diabetes and breast cancer link.
A study published in the International Journal of Cancer confirms previous research showing that diabetes increases the risk of breast cancer. In this study elevated insulin levels in the blood appeared to raise the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
You'd think that with the work they put into their day, sleep would come easily. The truth is, that's when the tossing and turning begins.
Women today have more to do than ever before, juggling family, career, education, social, and community responsibilities. The only time they have to relax is when their head hits the pillow. You'd think with all the work they put into their day, sleep would come easily.
Here, how reproductive capabilities can affect your diagnosis of this common condition.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic inflammatory disease, strikes women at higher rates than men. Between 1955 and 1994, the overall number of cases of rheumatoid arthritis declined. Since 1995, however, the incidence and prevalence of RA in women is increasing.
If you've been experiencing pelvic pain or irregular bleeding, you could be suffering from a condition that affects 5 to 10 percent of all women.
Pelvic pain, irregular bleeding, and infertility. These are the symptoms of endometriosis, a painful condition that affects 5 to 10 percent of all women. With endometriosis, cells from inside the uterus (the endometrium) grow outside where they don't belong.
A University of Michigan School of Public Health study has uncovered some startling findings.
Women who have their last period before age 42 are two times more likely to have a stroke down the road than those who experience menopause later in life, according to a University of Michigan School of Public Health study.
Most women go through menopause, which is marked by completing one year without periods, at an average age of 51.
Despite our modern American society, experts say emotions are perceived differently.
Male versus female: It's definitely a gender thing when it comes to showing one's feelings. Men tend to hold their feelings close and be stoic while women tend to express themselves more openly. The bottom line, experts say, is that males and females are hardwired to respond differently.
If your partner—or you—cheat, don’t assume that it’s over between the two of you. See the incident as a wake up call.
First, let's look at why most partners cheat.
To feel connected to someone. Since cheating involves sexual intensity, the brain's love and attachment chemicals such as oxytocin and endorphin increase—which make you feel close.
To feel appreciated and to matter to someone.
Egg donation provides couples with infertility other options to have a child. Learn more about how egg donation works.
In 2005 there were nearly 39,000 live births resulting from assisted reproductive technology in the United States. Egg donation plays an integral part of this process, helping many couples to finally realize their dream of having a child.
Although egg donation increases yearly, many of us are probably more familiar with the process of sperm donation.
Men and women need to get some “Income Etiquette” no matter who makes more money!
Because men generally make more money than women, today's economic crisis has created more lay offs for men—and more "stuck in the same old job/same pay" for women. Furthermore, since men still put more of their "identity eggs" in the work basket, when a man loses his job or has to work for less pay and status, he is also likely to lose some self-esteem.
Genetics may be why some guys get cold feet.
A gene variant may explain why some males want to maintain their single-forever status. Men with one or two copies of the "allele 334" have trouble committing to a relationship, according to a Swedish study. When the researchers looked at 500 couples, they found that men with this variant not only were commitment-phobic but also had marital troubles if they tied the knot.
Research shows that women who nurse have a lower incidence of cardiac disease.
The longer women breastfeed, the lower their risk of heart attack, stroke and cardiovascular disease, according to University of Pittsburgh researchers.
The findings were published in "Obstetrics & Gynecology," and reported in Heart Disease Weekly.
In general, you can greatly reduce your risk of osteoporosis by eating the right foods and getting plenty of exercise. But for some people, this may not be enough.
Osteoporosis is the most common type of bone disease. An estimated 10 million Americans have it, and another 18 million have low bone mass that may eventually lead to osteoporosis if untreated. People with osteoporosis have brittle bones that break easily; a leading cause of disability in seniors.
Is this method safe, or does it go against the natural course of nature?
Most women have about 450 periods in their lifetime. Most wish they had fewer. Now, women can reduce the number of periods they have and even eliminate them by taking birth control pills in a new way. Nicknamed the, "no period pill," women can have a period only every three to four months and, in some cases, once a year.
Here, the facts and myths surrounding why couples are unfaithful.
Take a poll on what people believe is the most common reason for an extramarital affair and the answer you are likely to get from the majority is: sex.
While this may be a common belief, it's not necessarily true, says Andrea Syrtash, a dating and relationships expert.
According to recent research, being a double D makes you more likely to develop the disease.
If you're worried about getting diabetes, take note of your bra size. A larger cup size is linked to higher rates of Type 2 diabetes, according to a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. The lead author of the study, Dr Joel Ray, said"I think the take-home message is that we have a new and thought provoking concept about how breast fatness or breast fat might be viewed as a contributor to Type 2 diabetes risk in a woman," lead author Dr.
In so many ways, women and men couldn't be more different. But what about when it comes to aging?
Are men and women really so different? After all, we speak the same language, eat the same foods, and enjoy most of what life has to offer together. But in some ways, there are big differences, particularly as we age. The most obvious one is that women can get pregnant, give birth, and breastfeed children.
Today pregnancy and diabetes is more manageable than in previous decades. Here are seven essential things you should know to protect your health and have a healthy baby.
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Many women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes have healthy, successful pregnancies, which are still considered high-risk. Some of the risks that increase due to diabetes and pregnancy include pre-eclampsia, miscarriage, premature birth, congenital defects, stillbirth, neonatal death, and having a baby who will have diabetes.
Whether you’re experiencing hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia (or all three), here’s how to talk to your doctor about finding relief.
Million of women are going through "the change" and dealing with menopause symptoms that can last a long time. The four-to-six years leading up to your final period are called Perimenopause. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists (ACOG), "Menopause happens around age 51, but every woman's body has its own timeline .
Digital Infrared Thermal Imaging, or thermography, may be the best breast cancer screening tool you’ve never heard of.
Although it is not widely used, studies show digital infrared thermal imaging, or thermography, is more effective than mammography--the current gold standard for breast cancer screening. Thermography detects early changes in the breast that increase a woman's risk for developing breast cancer.
Don’t speak first and think later. Here are some tips for those times when your reactions rule.
Almost all of us have been in situations when we said or did the wrong thing. You might feel the response coming on, but by then it's too late. Your slip up behavior is already a runaway train. Besides being embarrassed and ashamed, you worry about giving your date the wrong impression or hurting the feelings of your partner.
Learn more about Kegels and how taking just a few minutes a day to perform these exercises can have a positive impact on your health.
Did you know that a certain set of exercises can help make childbirth easier, sex better, and your bladder muscles stronger? These exercises, called Kegels, strengthen your pelvic floor muscles to improve urethral and rectal sphincter function. Read on for tips on why you should do Kegel exercises.
Learn about common causes of varicose veins, plus get a leg up on possible treatment options.
If you've noticed blue or red bulging or branching veins in your legs or face, you're not alone. According to The National Women's Health Information Center, more than half of all American women have problems with varicose and/or spider veins. When too much pressure is placed on the veins, the valves stretch and allow blood to pool.
What your dinner plate looks like plays a big role in what your skin looks like.
Generally, if you eat a healthy, balanced diet, it will show on your face. Scientists have argued for years over the link between diet and skin problems, though there are some things that everyone agrees can negatively impact your skin's appearance and aggravate existing problems.
It's not possible to be addicted to tanning...is it?
You know that relaxed, slightly euphoric feeling you have when you leave the tanning salon? It's not just in your head. Believe it or not, tanning is on the growing list of addictive behaviors.
If you tan in a salon, you're not alone. More than one million Americans seek that day-in-the-sun look year-round.
Sky-high stilettos may be fashionable, but podiatrists advocate more down-to-earth footwear.
For many women, high heels are the ultimate fashion statement. After all, Sex and the City's Carrie Bradshaw wore her Jimmy Choo stilettos with everything (even shorts!) while running down New York City's busy streets. What's more, high heels make our legs look longer and sleeker, so is it any surprise that most women own at least a pair or two? But as stylish as high heels may be, according to experts, they also come with a host of potential drawbacks.
An overview of the side effects of the birth control pill and the birth control patch.
You may be relieved to learn that the risk of breast cancer from taking the birth control pill is very small, as revealed in research from the Mayo Clinic. However, there are many other side effects associated with the pill and the birth control patch.
If every month brings mood swings, meltdowns, and migraines, you may not be the only one who’s suffering. Your loved ones may be, too.
Premenstrual symptoms affect the majority (85%) of menstruating women to some degree or another. They may feel moody, irritable, or physically uncomfortable during the days leading up to their period. Some women, however, are so affected by these symptoms that they disrupt their lives and relationships.
New study indicates that ingesting probiotics during pregnancy prevents obesity.
Taking probiotics during pregnancy prevents obesity, according to a new study presented at the 17th European Congress on Obesity in May. According to researchers, one year after giving birth, women were less likely to become obese if they had taken probiotics starting from the first trimester of pregnancy.
Postpone those candlelight dinners and sex too soon. The flame and the rush can trick you into falling in love quickly—and too often with the wrong person.
Most of us want to feel romantic because it makes us feel valued, special and less alone. At the beginning of a relationship, great sex and the thrills and chills of exciting activities can fool you into feeling that you've really found that special someone this time.
Without a sexual performance drug for women many are turning to the number one sex enhancer on the market, Viagra. But is it safe for women?
It's been over a decade since sildenafil (Viagra®) was approved to treat men's sexual dysfunction. Yet, there's been no such pharmaceutical breakthrough for women—30 percent of whom experience some form of sexual problems in their lifetime. As a result, women are increasingly turning to Viagra to increase arousal and pleasure.
Victoria Zdrok, Ph.D., answers a reader's question about whether his sex life with his wife is normal.
Q: I'm a 45 year old male and have been happily married to my wife for over 20 years. One of our few points of contention is the fact that we only have sex once or twice a month. This is fine for her, but I have a higher sex drive, and this sometimes isn't enough for me.
Is there sex after menopause? You bet, say doctors and sexual health educators.
Reports that women's sexuality ends with menopause now fall into the category of urban myth or old wives' tale. While some women do experience sexual problems in menopause, many don't. Also, many women discover that sex after menopause is more pleasurable and gratifying than ever before.
Are you feeling too tired for sex? Survey after survey shows that busy couples are choosing sleep over sex. Try these tips to reawaken your love life.
It's a broken refrain: Americans are just too tired for sex. In the Romance and Parenting poll conducted last month by AreYouRomantic.com, 63 percent of women and 49 percent of men admitted to being too tired for sex. In this year's National Sleep Foundation "Sleep in America" poll, sleep-deprived people were more likely to not have sex (18 percent) compared to better sleepers (6 percent).
Orthopedic and spinal surgeon Dr. Sean McCance answers a reader's question about herniated discs.
Q: I've recently developed a herniated disc. What are the best treatment options for this condition?
A: The treatment of a herniated disc depends on the initial symptoms and the location. Herniated discs that appear primarily in the lower back are referred to as lumbar herniations; those that appear in the neck are called cervical herniations.
A look at pregnancy and neonatal lupus. Get information and tips on how to have a healthier pregnancy.
If you have lupus, you may be worried about how it will affect your baby and whether your baby will develop neonatal lupus erythematosus, commonly referred to as neonatal lupus. This rare condition affects about one to three percent of infants born to women who have systemic lupus erythematosus and other autoimmune conditions such as Sjögren's syndrome and Raynaud's phenomenon.
Can long distance relationships work? For millions of modern couples, they do.
For millions of couples there truly is no mountain high enough or river wide enough to keep them apart. They're living proof that a long distance relationship works. In 2005, there were about 3.5 million people in long distance marriages, a 30 percent increase since 2000, according to the Center for the Study of Long Distance Relationships, an online information clearinghouse.
Research indicates that chemicals in sex toys can be dangerous.
Sex toys, or sexual aids, are increasingly popular in the post-Sex and the City era. But, are sex toys dangerous? That's what a study commissioned by Greenpeace in the Netherlands set out to discover three years ago. The world-renowned organization recruited a research organization, TNO Built Environment and Geosciences, to investigate the presence of phthalates in sex toys, including vibrators and dildos.
A bone mineral density (BMD) can help detect osteoporosis in its early stages so that treatment can begin. At what age should you get this important test, and how often should it be repeated? Get the facts here.
Affecting more than 10 million Americans, osteoporosis can lead to bone fragility and an increased risk of fractures. Fortunately, a bone mineral density (BMD) can help detect osteoporosis in its early stages so that treatment can begin. What exactly does this test entail? At what age should you get this important test, and how often should it be repeated?
According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation (NOF), "A bone mineral density test uses a special machine to measure bone density.
Sure, many women have small frames so they can’t process alcohol as quickly as men, but the reasons women get drunker quicker go deeper than that.
The evidence is mounting about women and alcohol. Even when we take differences in weight into consideration, it's a fact: women get drunk faster, with less alcohol than men. There's no way around it: drink for drink, women can't hold their liquor like men.
Statistics show that up to 15 percent of women report moderate to severe depression after their babies are born. But for mothers of multiples, the numbers—and the problems—can be even bigger.
Even under the best of circumstances, giving birth and caring for a newborn baby isn't easy. New mothers are dealing with the constant demands of an infant, including feeding, changing, stimulating, and settling. Breastfeeding requires a woman to be available at least every few hours around the clock, leaving her little time for unbroken sleep.
If you've ever had a urinary tract infection (UTI), you're all too familiar with the painful symptoms. But can a diet rich in cranberries or cranberry juice prevent a UTI?
Urinary tract (bladder) infections (UTI) can be very uncomfortable and if you've ever had one, you don't want another. Most UTIs are easily treated with antibiotics but if infection progresses beyond the bladder, it can affect the kidneys (a much more serious infection).
Do you ever feel so angry, irritable, or sad during the days leading up to your period that it affects your ability to lead a normal life? If so, read on.
Most of us know it's coming. We might feel cranky, crampy and gloomy; maybe a headache and a little water retention. No big deal—we pick up some tampons and a pint of ice cream and wait for our period to start. For some women, however, the days and even weeks leading up to their period make them so angry, irritable, or sad that it affects their ability to lead a normal life.
New study suggests that women with high emotional intelligence get more enjoyment from sex.
Want to improve your sex life? Scientists believe they have once again discovered an important factor in a woman reaching her sexual peak. According to a study conducted by the Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology at King's College London, emotional intelligence in a woman (or the ability to monitor her own and others' feelings and emotions) appears to increase the number of orgasms she can have.
What you don’t know can hurt you. Here we clear up some contraception confusion.
Your reproductive system is one of the most fragile systems in the body, according to the Office of Women's Health (OWH). Yet, every day women make birth control decisions without all the facts. Your gynecologist is one of your best allies when it comes to choosing contraception.
Learn how to get a better night's sleep during the hottest nights of the year.
When the mercury soars, you take longer to fall asleep and your sleep is more intermittent. Although the ideal room temperature for sleeping is 65 degrees Fahrenheit, indoor temperatures during summer can rise to over 100 degrees Fahrenheit in some parts of the country.
Although back pain is common, it doesn't have to be inevitable. Follow these easy tips to reduce your risk.
If you've ever had a backache, you know how bad the pain can get. It may be severe enough to keep you from going about your daily activities. Perhaps it makes you feel much older than you really are or causes you to groan when you sit or stand.
Understanding Back Pain
Back pain is a very common injury when dealing with athletes, says Erin K.
Get the truth about sex during pregnancy.
The myths surrounding sex during pregnancy are endless. Sex can hurt the baby. The baby will know what's happening. Sex can cause a miscarriage. What's an expectant mom or dad to believe? Here, we separate fact from fiction.
Q. Can you have sex during pregnancy?
A.
Although the recently developed cervical cancer vaccine has been heavily marketed to young women and teen girls, it hasn’t gained a foothold among the population of older women. But, that may soon be changing.
Although the recently developed cervical-cancer vaccine, known as Gardasil, has been heavily marketed to preteen and teen girls as well as young women in their early to mid twenties, it has not gained a foothold among the population of older women. In fact, the Food and Drug Administration currently approves the vaccine only for girls and women aged 9 to 26.
Many women find it difficult to leave an abusive relationship. Here are 13 ways to make the break easier.
Domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women between the ages of 15 and 44 in the United States. Every year more than one million women seek medical assistance for injuries sustained in an abusive relationship. And about one in five female high school students have been physically or sexually abused by someone they're dating.
Get the answers to your most pressing questions about health after 40.
Forty may be the new 30, but turning the big 4-0 can still trigger health questions and worries. Do you wonder if weight gain, hypertension, and osteoarthritis are looming in your immediate future? Get some answers to your most pressing - and worrying - questions about health after 40.
Breast augmentation is growing more popular each year. With more than 300,000 women undergoing the procedure in 2008, it's important that implants—the medical devices inserted either under breast tissue or the chest muscle to enlarge the breasts—be safe.
Follow our head to toe guidelines for health screenings after menopause.
For many women, life after 50 is an exciting time. Their careers are at their peak and they're enjoying time with family. They feel great and are cruising through menopause with minimal problems. Some, however, face health concerns resulting from disease, unhealthy habits, genetics, or simple wear and tear.
Some studies suggest that 90 percent of women experience menstrual cramps, and 10 percent have it so bad that they’re stuck in bed for days.
Every month it's the same old thing for millions of women worldwide: cramps, crankiness, bloating and backache. Some studies suggest that 90 percent of women experience menstrual cramps, and 10 percent have it so bad that they're stuck in bed for days.
Nobody looks forward to a gynecological exam, but it is possible to make your time in the stirrups more comfortable and informative. Whether you're visiting your gynecologist for a basic checkup or are concerned about something specific, read on for what you should know before you go.
New study finds that a bad marriage takes a toll on a woman’s health increasing their risk of heart disease and diabetes.
A recent study from the University of Utah revealed that a woman in a strained or bad marriage is at risk for depressed mood, hypertension, obesity and other signs of metabolic syndrome. This makes women more vulnerable to diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
More consumers seeking out cheap or free plastic surgery alternatives as the economy sags.
If you're looking for cheap or free plastic surgery alternatives, you're not alone. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), surgical procedures declined by five percent last year. While minimally-invasive procedures such as microdermabrasion and chemical peels increased by nine percent, they aren't the only options available.
You may not want to think about sex when PMS symptoms take over. But sex may be just what you need.
Premenstrual syndrome isn't an aphrodisiac, to say the least. Symptoms like bloating, cramps, fatigue and depression hardly arouse sexual desire. So it seems like a cruel joke that when you're in a sexiness slump, sex is one of the PMS remedies you need.
Still in search of the big “O”? Learn about the surprising factors that affect female orgasms.
For many women sexual satisfaction can be as elusive as post-coital cuddling. While the anatomy of male orgasms are better understood, many studies and popular literature still refer to the female orgasm as "a mystery" or "misunderstood."
Scientists - from Freud to Kinsey - have attempted to shed light on women's sexuality.
How long of a break from dating should you take between a break up? Find out here.
Failed love hurts. And it hurts so bad that you might swear off marriage and relationships, loathe the thought of dating and close your heart and mind to finding love ever again. The glass of life feels half empty, and you've just joined the unofficial Club of Love Pessimists.
New poll shows that women suffering relationship challenges during the economic downturn.
While investors are busy wondering how to recession-proof their portfolios, many couples are struggling to recession-proof their relationships. A survey commissioned by Caron Treatment Centers, one of the nation's leading non-profit addiction treatment centers, revealed that the economy is having a profound impact on relationships—from decreasing intimacy to eroding communication.
There's no doubt about it, having a baby is a life changing experience. It's exhausting, demanding and requires all the resources a woman can muster. Add to that the physical and hormonal changes birth causes, challenges of breast feeding, and extreme sleep deprivation and it's no wonder many new mothers get bummed out.
Study finds that yoga and mindfulness meditation can improve the sex lives of women.
Yoga isn't just for better flexibility, relaxation, pain relief and muscle toning. Those sessions of asanas can help to boost your sex life, according to a research review article printed in the Journal of Sexual Medicine.
The researchers focused on three Eastern disciplines - acupuncture, mindfulness meditation and yoga - and looked at empirical evidence from previous studies, as well as historical literature on sexuality.
It's summertime and the living is easy. But this hottest of seasons can bring with it special health risks, including food poisoning and insect-borne diseases.
It's summertime, and the living is easy. But this hottest of seasons can bring with it special health risks, including sun damage, food poisoning, and insect-borne diseases. Follow these five tips to have your best, healthiest summer yet:
1. Practice good pedicure hygiene.
Here, a guide for how to know you are in love and have chosen the right person to marry.
Marriage is scary. We're too good at hiding our fears, feelings and secrets from our partners—and ourselves. So, it's no wonder so many people are putting off finding a mate until later in life. There is no guaranteed list of do's and don'ts about making a wise choice, but relationship research provides some sound advice.
The word is out — sex can be great for your health in more ways than you can imagine.
Looking for the secret to a better quality of life, or longer life? Some of us think the answer lies in a bottle of herbal pills, a better diet, or more aerobic exercise. Few of us would think sex could have the same benefits. But according to research, sex does much more than satisfy desire - it can have a significant impact on your health and increase your lifespan.
After 20 years of treating breast cancer with less invasive techniques such as a lumpectomy, the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction. Now, many women are opting to have both breasts removed after they develop cancer in one breast. If you are facing breast cancer, here’s what you should know.
The procedure to remove both breasts is called contralateral (the corresponding part on the opposite side) prophylactic (preventative) mastectomy. Women choose prophylactic mastectomy to reduce their risk of, and their fear that, they will develop cancer in their other breast.
There may be a new way to reduce your risk.
The benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are complex and confusing. HRT, used to relieve symptoms of menopause, was the subject of the famous Women's Health initiative, a large-scale study that was halted in 2002 when HRT was shown to increase a woman's risk-and delay diagnosis-of breast cancer.
Fruits, vegetables, and even buffalo can help you realize success with your tresses.
You do almost everything to maintain healthy hair: You wash and condition it regularly, you stay away from blow dryers, curling irons, and all manner of other heat-styling devices, you neither perm nor bleach it, you use a scrunchie rather than an elastic when pulling it up into a ponytail, you wear a bathing cap when swimming, you've even invested in satin pillowcases and a boar-bristle brush.
A miscarriage can be a devastating event. Here, we explain the basics behind it.
Many women are all too familiar with miscarriage. If they haven't had one themselves, they most likely know someone who has. On average, 10 to 25 percent of all pregnancies result in miscarriage. This can be an extremely difficult experience for women and their families, resulting in grief, anger, sadness, and confusion.
From symptoms to treatments, here's a rundown of what every woman should know.
A cancer diagnosis is always scary but ovarian cancer is particularly frightening because it's difficult to detect in its early, most easily treated stages. Once a woman knows she has it, it's often too late to cure. The National Cancer Institute (NCI) says 21,550 new cases of ovarian cancer are diagnosed annually and 14,600 women will die from it.
Psychologist and relationship expert Dr. LeslieBeth Wish answers a reader's question about maintaining distance in a healthy partnership.
Q: How do you manage emotional and physical space in a relationship?
A: If you're lucky in love, then you've probably found someone with problem-solving abilities and what I call the "relationship rhythm range" of time alone and time as one that mesh with yours—two things that are necessary to resolve emotional and physical space issues.
Now, hormonal contraception comes in a patch, vaginal ring, injection and IUDs, providing more options than ever.
The latest news in birth control is actually a new slant on old news. Hormonal contraceptives like birth control pills have been around for decades and do far more than just prevent pregnancy. They also regulate, shorten and even eliminate periods, decrease bleeding and cramping and treat acne.
When you’re going through menopause, sex may take a backseat to coping with hot flashes, mood swings, and other menopause symptoms. Learn how to cope and keep your sex life alive.
Few positive images come to mind when you think of menopause. Bouts of moodiness, hot flashes, increased weight, sleeplessness, menstrual changes, and vaginal changes seem to define the process. Then there are all the myths surrounding menopause and sex.
Read on for five tips on how to manage your career and motherhood--while still leaving some time for yourself.
The words "working" and "mother" are redundant. Parenting is a tough job; tougher still for working mothers juggling responsibilities at home and work. The US Department of Labor says, "Nearly three-quarters of all mothers are in the labor force.
Some researchers believe the connection between human pheromones and attraction is nothing to scoff at.
Can a perfume or cologne with pheromones turn you into a love magnet? The prevailing wisdom is that you should hold on tightly to your purse for now.
Pheromones are defined as chemicals secreted by an individual that produces a change in the sexual or social behavior of another individual of the same species.
You know exercise is good for your heart, but did you know it also plays an important role in preventing and treating breast cancer?
Breast cancer statistics can be scary and may leave you feeling like you have no control over whether or not you develop this disease. However, simple lifestyle changes such as exercise and a healthy diet can help put you in charge of your own health.
Do you have to have your period every month? Are premenstrual symptoms and premenstrual syndrome the same thing? Here, five things you didn't know about your time of the month.
If you're an average woman, you'll have your period 500 times in your life. That's 500 cycles of ovum (egg) development, uterine lining buildup and, if you don't get pregnant, breakdown. That's what we call a menstrual cycle. Most girls start menstruating around age 12 and quit (menopause) around 52.
Researchers say, despite commonly held beliefs, romance can thrive in long-term relationships. Find out how.
Most of us are in awe - or disbelief - when we hear that a couple has been married for 50 years or longer. These days few marriages, let alone relationships, last that long. For instance, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, 76 percent of men who married in 1955 to 1959 stayed married for at least 20 years, while only 58 percent of men who married in 1975 to 1979 stayed married as long.
It turns out that women aren’t looking for just a pretty face when it comes to choosing a mate. What researchers have discovered will surprise you.
Not so long ago society was abuzz with the discovery that women preferred more feminine features in male partners - think Brad Pitt. Researches found that women associated less masculine features in a man - rounder face and fuller lips - with being a good husband and provider, a good parent, and emotionally supportive.
Work and money are the leading causes of stress for 75 percent of Americans. While companies that invest in employees significantly outperform the market, not all employers are taking the hint.
Even in tough economic times companies that continue to invest in employees reap rewards for employers and employees, according to the American Psychological Association (APA). The findings were released at the APA's Psychologically Healthy Workplace Awards ceremony earlier this year.
This silent disease is more common than you may think.
It sneaks up on unsuspecting women with little warning and is the fourth leading cause of death in women in United States. Ovarian cancer kills more women than all gynecological cancers combined.
Despite these morbid facts, you can take steps and make lifestyle choices that lower your risk of becoming another statistic in the battle against ovarian cancer:
Motherhood.
Find out if your heart palpitations and hot flashes are sign of something serious.
Maybe you've been feeling sluggish lately and unable to concentrate. Or you're having heart palpitations and constantly feeling too warm. It might be time to have your thyroid checked. A small, butterfly-shaped gland located in front of your trachea and below your larynx, your thyroid produces hormones that control your metabolism.
Can this controversial yet useful technology one day knock heart disease from its spot as the leading killer of American women?
Seeing as 64 percent of women who died suddenly due to coronary heart disease showed no symptoms of the disease beforehand, you'd think that the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology would be imploring women to get heart scans, which can detect blockages and calcium buildup in people with heart disease who have exhibited no signs whether through actual symptoms, blood tests, echocardiograms, or otherwise.
With a few tricks, everyone will think you got a full eight hours.
It’s no secret that you'll have trouble sleeping as you get older. And there’s nothing like a full plate—work projects due, sick kids, money worries—to keep you up at night. If you've been tossing and turning in the wee hours, it’s probably taking a toll on your appearance.
With the right preparation, you can enjoy a smooth workday.
Most people who have Crohn’s can hold a steady job and enjoy a rewarding career. A little planning and preparation can make all the difference in having a successful day at work. Here are a few tips for managing Crohn’s at work.
1. Always have a change of clothes—just in case.
More than 200 million days of work are missed each year due to employee depression. Get the whole story here.
Since Americans spend so much of their lives working, it makes sense that depression affects people on the job well as outside of work. In fact, clinical depression is a very costly illness for businesses. According to the organization Mental Health America, more than 200 million days of work are missed each year due to employee depression, mostly by women, not to mention lost productivity at work and the measurable costs of treatment.
Dr. Jeff Aroesty answers a reader's question about snoring and discusses the innovative Pillar® Procedure.
Q: My husband has always been a snorer, but over the past few years it seems to have gotten worse. It's to the point where I'm often forced to get up in the middle of the night to sleep in the guest room. We're both in our fifties and extremely health conscious.
Here's what you need to know about this crucial topic.
Are you pregnant and feeling confused, afraid, sad, stressed or depressed? According to the American Pregnancy Association, 10 to 20 percent of women will struggle with some symptoms of depression during pregnancy. And of those women, a quarter to half will suffer from severe depression.
A service of The National Library of Medicine and the National Institutes of Health reports that a study has been published suggesting that measuring the levels of hormone produced by the placenta during pregnancy may predict whether a woman is likely to develop postpartum depression or not.
Hormonal changes during pregnancy increase greatly. In the first 24 hours after childbirth, hormone levels quickly return to normal. These hormonal changes may trigger symptoms of postpartum depression Researchers think the dramatic change in hormone levels may lead to depression.
If you’ve always wanted to have a baby but are worried that your asthma may get in the way, then you’ll be glad to know that today, most women with asthma are able to have very healthy pregnancies. Some of the latest research shows that the key to success is continuing to manage your symptoms throughout the nine months in order to ensure the best outcome for both you and your baby.
Some of the latest research shows that the key to success is continuing to manage your symptoms throughout the nine months in order to ensure the best outcome for both you and your baby.
Understand Your Changing Body
If you are one of the growing numbers of women in the United States who suffers from asthma symptoms, the good news is that you may be able to have a normal pregnancy as long as you follow your doctor’s recommendations.
Sure, sex is enjoyable, but could it turn deadly? Find out here.
It’s not something most of us want to think about. After all society — from alcohol commercials to Dr. Ruth—promotes sex as a pleasurable activity that’s a natural part of life. For the most part, they’re right.
Unfortunately, in some cases sex can lead to conditions that will kill you.
Getting quality shut-eye may benefit you more than you ever thought.
To sleep provides more than a chance to dream. Scientists are waking up to the fact that the right amount of shut-eye restores bones, gives the brain a much-needed break from the daily grind, and prevents a whole host of maladies, including heart disease.
Follow these guidelines to solve the multivitamin mystery.
You probably know that taking a multivitamin can be good for your health, but do you know which one is right for you? According to Dr. Ann G. Kulze, author of Dr. Ann's 10-Step Diet: A Simple Plan for Permanent Weight Loss and Lifelong Vitality, "there is perhaps no area of wellness that evokes more confusion and questions amongst consumers than what supplements they should or should not take.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, arthritis is the most common cause of disability, affecting nearly 50 percent of all Americans at some point in their lives. Each year, millions of workers skip work or leisure activities to cope with the debilitating symptoms such as chronic pain, swelling and stiffness.
With concerns about the arthritis epidemic in the future, health professionals want more people to be aware of ways to reduce the risk - read on to learn about a few. Quit smoking. There's little you can do about most risk factors for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) such as your sex (women are more likely to get it), age, or family history.
Approximately 50 percent of pregnant women will experience heartburn. Learn how to find relief.
Approximately 50 percent of pregnant women will experience heartburn (most common during the second and third trimester.) The reason: As a woman's level of progesterone increases during pregnancy, her lower esophageal sphincter relaxes. This allows food and acid to reflux back into the esophagus, thus creating the feeling of heartburn or indigestion.
A few simple changes can make a big difference.
It may not be dinner-table conversation, but sometimes what we eat at the dinner table can affect us in negative ways. If you've ever left a meal feeling bloated, or suffered from heartburn or pain, your digestive system may not be operating at top capacity.
It's the number one killer of women, but with the right lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk.
Even if heart disease runs in your family, getting it is not inevitable. There are many steps you can take to minimize your risk and live a long, healthy life, from making smart food choices to bumping up your exercise. So ditch the excuses, and check out this list:
Burn as many calories as you take in.
With the right knowledge and preparation, you can properly care for your condition while on the job.
If you think you're the only person with diabetes in your workplace, odds are you're mistaken. The most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) shows that diabetes now affects nearly 24 million people, or 8 percent of the population, in the United States.
Find out why women are at such a high risk for heart disease.
Though men are still perceived to comprise the majority of heart disease sufferers, as women age, their heart attack risk starts to equal that of men's. According to the American Heart Association, heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of death among older women, with about twice as many dying of cardiovascular disease than all the cancers combined.
Find out what you can do to prevent the number one killer of American women.
Heart disease should be a concern for every American. According to The Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death for both women and men in the United States. However, among all U.S. women who die each year, one in four dies of heart disease.
When your total cholesterol level climbs above 240, it’s time to take action to decrease your risk for a stroke or a heart attack.
Quitting smoking, engaging in aerobic exercise at least three times a week, and eating a diet high in fiber and rich in fruits and vegetables will all contribute to the maintenance of a healthy balance of good cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL); if the former is 60 or above, it actually prevents heart disease, while a level below 100 for the latter is desirable for people who have a higher likelihood for developing heart disease.
Follow these tips to keep your fitness levels up when temperatures drop.
When the temperature drops and the snow begins to fall outside, it's hard to justify a good reason for getting off the couch. But even though lounging in front of the television feels a lot more tempting than taking a jog or even driving to the gym, there's no reason you have to completely surrender your fitness goals until spring.
Clean teeth and healthy gums might be your first line of defense against other diseases. Learn more.
As a kid, brushing your teeth may have seemed like a hassle, but as an adult, you should be aware of how important healthy teeth and gums really are. Oral health goes hand in hand with your overall health. Think of your mouth as a window to your body's health.
Feeling weird? Your over-the-counter or prescription drug could be to blame.
Ever experience a sudden, strong desire to gamble, or a funny feeling that you've been driving in your sleep?
It could be nothing. Or maybe it's time to finally read the warnings that came with that bottle of over-the-counter or prescription drugs you're taking.
Tired of that burning feeling in your chest? Find out how to relieve heartburn during pregnancy.
Even if you rarely or never had heartburn before your pregnancy, it's likely to occur while you're carrying your baby, most commonly during the second or third trimester. In fact, the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG) reports that more than 50 percent of all pregnant women experience heartburn.
It's the second most common surgery for American women. But how much do you really know about the procedure? Learn more now.
Each year, more than 600,000 hysterectomies are performed in the United States, making it one of the most common women's surgeries—second only caesarean section. In fact, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the procedure is so common that one in every three American women has had a hysterectomy by age 60.
Find out why more and more women are turning to cosmetic surgery to regain their pre-pregnancy figures.
For many women, there's no greater thrill than having a baby. The act of childbirth signifies a new stage in their lives, and the arrival of their little one is a source of great joy. But some new moms find that pregnancy affects their bodies in unexpected, and unwanted, ways.
You might not have known it when you were young, but according to health experts, Mom was right all along.
Remember all those times your mom told you to go to bed early and eat your veggies? You might not have wanted to admit it back then, but as it turns out, she was right--about almost everything. Here, the 10 best pieces of advice that moms give:
1. Wash your hands.
Sure, your diet and exercise schedules can contribute to your weight. But who knew that your job could, too?
Ever-improving technology has replaced manual labor at many American jobs, making sedentary lifestyles commonplace. A whopping 60 percent of the population is overweight or obese, and occupations that require little or no movement certainly haven't helped.
You might not hear these tips at the doctor's office, but they could help you live a longer, healthier life.
Everyone knows that eating well and exercising can prevent all kinds of ailments, from heart disease to diabetes. But what don't you know? What aren't you being told that might also boost your health? And what health advice did you think was cliche but, as is turns out, really works? You might not hear the following 10 tips at the doctor's office, but they could help you to live a longer, more fulfilling life.
What you don't know could hurt you.
The relationship you have with your physician is a very important one. It should be rooted in trust and complete honesty. However, like most relationships, it's not perfect, and as you're likely to keep a few facts to yourself, your doctor is probably harboring some secrets of his own.
These five accidents changed what makes you sick and how you're treated when you go to the doctor or hospital.
Chances are, the next time you get sick, you won't want to hear your doctor utter the words "mistake" or "accident." But if it wasn't for mistakes and accidents, some of the very things you rely on to stay healthy or help you heal may never have been discovered.
Here, we reveal some little-known facts about what to expect when you're expecting.
When you're pregnant, almost everyone is eager to offer advice and a blueprint of what to expect during this monumental time. But moms-to-be may find that some aspects of pregnancy are rarely discussed. Here, we disclose some of pregnancy's best-kept secrets
Morning sickness isn't limited to the morning.
These five tips may help increase your chances of getting pregnant.
Pregnancy may seem like the most natural biological process in the world, but it doesn't come all that naturally for some. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, an estimated 12 percent of American women (7.3 million) have difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a baby to term.
These important tips could help you get out of a dangerous situation.
It's late and it's dark, and you're finally leaving the office for the night. You're tired, frustrated, and just want to get home. As you're walking to your car in the deserted parking lot, you think you hear a noise behind you. You whip around, only to be forcibly grabbed.
Every year, millions of Americans are misdiagnosed. Find out when you should get a second opinion.
When you receive a diagnosis from your doctor, chances are, you believe it. After all, physicians are medical experts with years of experience identifying a variety of diseases. They've probably seen hundreds, if not thousands, of patients with symptoms just like yours.
Could today's innovations be hazardous to your health? Read on to get the real story.
From famines and floods to wars and pandemics, the world has always been a dangerous place. But these days, the very innovations we rely on for modern convenience may be ruining our health. Is your cell phone or iPod making you sick? Could your deodorant, antibiotics, or bottled water be toxic? Read on to uncover the five most frightening modern health threats.
Men, women, and children can all develop a bladder infection. Here, a look at the condition, from symptoms to treatments.
Uncomfortable pressure above the pubic bone. A frequent urge to urinate. A burning feeling in the bladder or urethra. If you've had a urinary tract infection (UTI) before, you're all too familiar with these painful symptoms. The good news is that most UTIs can be easily treated with antibiotics-and drinking cranberry juice may even help prevent them in the first place.
It's America's most popular cosmetic surgery, but how much do you really know about breast enlargement? Learn more now.
Throughout history, breasts have always been associated with femininity and sex appeal. And over the years, women have tried various techniques to enhance their curves. Back in 1885, Austrian-German surgeon Vincenz Czerny made the first recorded attempt at breast augmentation using a patient's own adipose (or fatty) tissue.
Late-shift workers put themselves at risk for certain illnesses. Is there anything they can do to protect their health?
Trying to get enough sleep while working the late shift can feel like trying to swim upstream. Simply put, the human body is meant to be active during the daytime hours. In fact, humans' circadian rhythms (the body's biological sleep clock) are naturally programmed to promote sleep at night.
Think you know everything about the human body? Check out 10 bizarre facts you didn't learn in anatomy class.
From WiFi and plasma screens to picture phones, modern technology might seem pretty complex. But according to biologists, the human body is still the most sophisticated—and mysterious—machine on Earth. A single brain cell, for example, can hold as much information as the Encyclopedia Britannica, while human stomach acid is strong enough to dissolve razorblades.
From head to toe, we explore symptoms and solutions for some of the most awkward health conditions.
At one time or another, an embarrassing malady is bound to fall on everyone. Although some are more debilitating than others, all are at least conquerable, if not curable, with a combination of diligence, patience, and a doctor's supervision. Here, we...
Eating breakfast? Absolutely. Sunbathing? Not so much. Read on as we uncover the best and worst health advice.
When it comes to health, good advice abounds. But there are also lots of misconceptions, silly old wives' tales, and even dangerous ideas about everything from UV exposure to treating a common cold. Which suggestions should you follow, and which ones should you kick to the curb? Follow our guide to discover the best and worst health tips of all time.
As many as 30 percent of women suffer from this pelvic condition. Here, a look at prolapse, from symptoms to treatments.
Prolapse, which literally means "to fall out of place," is a condition in which the pelvic organs, such as the bladder or the uterus, are no longer adequately supported by the surrounding muscles and ligaments. The condition takes different forms, and there are different levels of severity.
Plagued by painful headaches? Find out how to pinpoint their source so you can prevent and treat them.
Headaches often strike when you least expect them--and they can range in severity from dull throbs and intense aches to debilitating pain. In fact, they land someone in the emergency room every 10 seconds, according to the American Headache Society. As if that weren't frustrating enough, oftentimes the direct cause of a headache is unknown.
Consider these factors to help determine which contraceptive method is right for you.
With the invention of birth control pills in the 1960s, women suddenly had unprecedented control over their reproductive schedules. Today, many couples are opting to delay starting a family, and some are ruling out parenthood completely. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the type of birth control you choose depends on your lifestyle and needs.
Will you live to a ripe old age? Read on to calculate your odds.
We've split the atom, spliced the gene, even sent a spacecraft to Mars. But finding a reliable way to predict a person's life span? That's proven a bit more difficult. In recent years, however, scientists have begun to crack the code-identifying 22 genetic, demographic, and lifestyle factors that can estimate life span with a surprising amount of accuracy.
Follow these steps to reduce your risk of developing this degenerative bone disease.
Affecting more than 10 million Americans, osteoporosis is a disease characterized by low bone mass and structural deterioration of bone tissue, leading to bone fragility and an increased susceptibility to fractures. Although any bone can be affected, the most common fractures occur in the wrist, hips, and spine.
As common as the condition is, many women insist on keeping quiet about it. Here, we explore the reasons why.
Thousands of women in the United States experience bladder leakage--whether it means tiny drops when they sneeze, a small dribble when they hear running water, or a noticeable wet spot after certain forms of exercise. Yet as common as this condition is, many women keep quiet about their symptoms, ashamed to discuss it with their doctor, their friends, and even their spouse.
Sexually transmitted diseases can be hard to spot; in fact, some may have no symptoms at all. Here, how to pinpoint and prevent the three most common offenders.
You've been in a monogamous relationship for years. You and your partner have discussed your sexual histories. And you go to the doctor for regular checkups. There's no way you could be carrying or spreading a sexually transmitted disease, right? Well, not so fast.
When it comes to bladder leakage, many myths abound. Here, we separate fact from fiction.
Twenty-five percent of women over the age of 18 experience occasional episodes of involuntary urine leakage, according to the National Association for Continence. But as prevalent as the condition is, many misconceptions about it still exist. Here we dispel the top eight myths surrounding bladder health.
Find out how you can reduce your risk of acquiring this disease.
Worldwide, breast cancer is the second most common type of cancer after lung cancer, and it is the fifth most common cause of cancer death. Breast cancer, which starts in the cells of the breast in men and women, is by far the most common cancer among women.
Think you're too old to accomplish something? Follow these tips to defy your age and live a longer, healthier life.
Clint Eastwood still winning Oscars at 78. "Godfather of Fitness" Jack LaLanne still working out two hours a day at 94. All around us, individuals who would have once been considered "past their prime" are accomplishing incredible feats that make people half their age shake their heads in amazement.
Find out what the statistics about teen pregnancy means for you and your teenager.
It may seem as though stories about teen pregnancy--both fictional and real--are everywhere. First, there was the news about a Massachusetts high school where 17 girls under the age of 18 had become pregnant on purpose. Then, it was news that Bristol Palin, the teenage daughter of Republican vice-presidential nominee Sarah Palin, was expecting a baby with her boyfriend.
Simple screw-ups are a part of life, but in medicine, these mistakes can be fatal. Learn how to protect yourself.
Doctor mistakes can mean the difference between life and death, and sadly, these errors are all too common. According to a study by the Institute of Medicine, medical mistakes in hospitals alone are the eighth-leading cause of death in the United States, exceeding those by car accidents, breast cancer, and AIDS.
Implementing a schedule for going to the bathroom is an important part of treating urge incontinence.
When treating urge incontinence, many urologists or bladder health experts begin with behavior modification. This is because, in many cases, the bladder can be trained to respond (i.e., empty) at the appropriate time. One tool that experts use to retrain the bladder is a voiding schedule.
Afraid weight lifting will make you look like Arnold Schwarzenegger? It won't. Here, we debunk other weight-lifting myths.
Trying to lose weight? Put down the cookbook, and pick up some dumbbells. Some common misconceptions deter women from lifting weights, but the truth is weight lifting can help eliminate body fat. One study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, demonstrated that women who strength trained twice a week for two years decreased their body fat by 3.
Simple lifestyle changes can help you to better manage your condition.
If you or someone you care about has developed a bladder-leakage problem, it's important to visit your doctor, who will be able to rule out more serious health conditions. But while you wait for your appointment, did you know that there are many things you can do right at home to help control your symptoms? These changes may not solve your problem entirely, but many women claim to have found relief by making some simple adjustments to their lifestyle.
About one in every four people has a sexually transmitted disease (STD), and many don't even know it. Find out how to protect yourself.
Passed between individuals during vaginal, anal, or oral sex, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) can have serious-and even fatal-consequences if left untreated. Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for contracting STDs, but fortunately, there are steps that you can take to minimize your chance of infection.
Tired of fad diets and bad weight-loss advice? These little-known secrets can help you shed big pounds.
Your sister fasts on grapefruit, your coworker guzzles caffeine, and your best friend eats nothing but soup for an entire week. When it comes to losing weight, silly strategies abound. And according to experts, these techniques are not only ineffective; they can be downright dangerous.
Slathering your face with glue? Swathing your thighs in Saran Wrap? Ladies, don't try these tips at home.
It's often said that beauty is pain--and for a few adventurous souls, the pursuit of beauty can be weird, wacky, and downright dangerous. The unconventional tips they follow? Some may be familiar (dabbing toothpaste on a pimple), while others are simply disturbing (plumping lips via vacuum cleaner).
Nearly six million people live with diabetes, but are unaware that they have the condition. Could you be one of them?
While the exact cause of diabetes remains unknown, both genetics and environmental factors, such as obesity and lack of exercise, appear to play major roles. Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, which is a hormone that is needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life.
From gossip and bullying to chronic lateness, we reveal seven things you should never do on the job.
Sexual harassment, profanity, and absenteeism were probably all covered in your company orientation. But chances are, a few egregious behaviors-like gossiping and bullying-didn't make their way into the employee handbook. Even so, these missteps might be grounds for immediate dismissal.
Looking to keep your love alive? Avoid these missteps at all costs.
Happily married couples usually credit love, tolerance, and devotion as the secrets to their success. But when a relationship goes sour, people often find themselves wondering what went wrong. According to experts, there are several common mistakes—from infidelity and neglect to communication breakdown—that can cause a once-loving partnership to end in a bitter breakup.
Living with MS can be a challenge, but these tips can help make it easier.
Fatigue, numbness, and depression are just a few of the common symptoms of MS, making even daily tasks a challenge for some sufferers. The good news: Most people with MS can learn to cope with the disease and continue to lead satisfying, productive lives, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMMS).
Research suggests that certain foods can help reduce your cancer risk.
While there's no single food that can protect you against cancer completely, a growing body of research suggests that certain edibles can help to reduce your risk. Some of these foods and spices may thwart the onset of the disease, while others can help to limit the spread of cancer cell growth.
When it comes to intimacy, misinformation abounds. Here, we put the 10 biggest sexual myths to bed.
When it comes to sex, most of us think we know it all--or at least enough that we don't need further education. But no matter what your background or relationship status, you've probably heard (and believed) a sexual falsehood somewhere along the line.
Do you find yourself speeding, honking, or constantly changing lanes? If so, you may have road rage. Read on to spot the top 10 signs.
Consider this: Americans spend 100 hours a year commuting but take only 80 hours of vacation annually, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Is it any wonder that many of us have road rage? Even so, road rage isn't acceptable. Aggressive driving, which includes speeding, weaving in and out of traffic, and not paying full attention to the road, puts many people at risk.
If you're approached by a shark, is it better to play dead or fight back? Find out here.
In real life, unlike in the movie Jaws, sharks don't approach with a distinctive "duh, duh... duh, duh" soundtrack. They attack so suddenly, their victims rarely see it coming.
However, that doesn't mean that there's no way to avoid an attack. Experts say that if you take the right precautions, your risk of being attacked is minimal.
Buyer beware. Ingredients in some of these popular cosmetic products have been linked to dangerous and sometimes deadly side effects.
We dye, paint, perfume, and spray with reckless abandon, but could our favorite beauty products be doing us more harm than good? Dermatologist Jason R. Lupton weighs in with his list of the top six most dangerous ingredients. After reading this, you might want to start checking the labels of your favorite brands.
Follow these tips to start cutting medical costs without compromising the quality of your care.
Maybe your health insurance premiums have skyrocketed since last year. Maybe your employer is shifting more medical fees onto you. Or perhaps a new diagnosis, emergency-room visit, or other life change is leaving you with more health-related expenses than you ever expected.
With the right knowledge, women can take control of their health during this important life stage. Here, a look at menopause by the numbers.
While menopause used to invoke feelings of trepidation and confusion in many women, ideas about it have changed considerably. People now recognize that menopause is a natural biological process and not a medical illness. Yet, many women still deal with very real symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and decreased levels of energy.
Genetics plays a role in many of our health matters and actions, including learning from out mistakes.
Everyone makes mistakes from time to time. But the way people deal with their errors is often vastly different. While some people dwell on their missteps or simply refuse to acknowledge them, others view their blunders as unique opportunities for self-improvement and personal growth.
Today's high-tech reproductive options help couples achieve their dreams of having a baby.
For many couples, having a baby is the ultimate act of emotional fulfillment. Their little bundle of joy is an affirmation of life, and their new role as parents is the beginning of a uniquely rewarding journey. Even the physical pain associated with childbirth is usually viewed as a labor of love.
From chronic back pain to poor self-esteem, large breasts can present a host of health problems. Find out whether surgery could ease your discomfort.
Contrary to popular belief, large breasts aren't always what they're cracked up to be. For many women, overly large, pendulous breasts can result in chronic neck and back pain, poor posture, breathing problems, rashes, and deep skin grooves resulting from bra strap pressure.
When it comes to decision-making, relationships, and even health, intuition may be one of the greatest tools to have.
Do you trust your gut instead of rationalizing your way through problems? Are you likely to stick with your first instincts about people rather than waiting to make character judgments? Do you ever question the beliefs of others because you had a hunch that you were right? If you answered yes to two or more of the above, chances are, you're an intuitive person.
The rising costs of health care may seem daunting, but understanding your options doesn't have to be. Here, an explanation of common, but confusing, terms.
For many people, attempting to understand health care can feel like trying to find their way through a maze. All of the confusing the costs, terms, conditions, and stipulations can start to sound like a foreign language. Here, we set the facts straight.
More and more people are turning to elective options, such as plastic surgery and fertility treatments, to improve their confidence and enhance the quality of their lives.
If you've fantasized about making alterations to your appearance at one time or another, you're not alone. More than 11 million cosmetic procedures were performed in 2006, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the number is growing.
Before you jump into an office relationship, ask yourself these important questions.
Jim and Pam from The Office, Sam and Diane from Cheers, Meredith and Derek from Grey's Anatomy. They're all workplace sweethearts whose relationships, albeit fictional, have met with varying degrees of success. But what about in the real worldare office romances a good idea or an automatic career buster?
A Common Occurrence
According to a 2006 CareerBuilder.
Before you splurge on the latest anti-wrinkle cream or step inside a tanning booth, check out these common misconceptions.
Greasy foods give you acne. Dry skin leads to wrinkles. Sunscreen blocks UV rays. These are just a few of the most common skin-care mythsand by this point, you've probably heard them all. Some of these myths promise overnight acne fixes, while others suggest amazing anti-aging effects.
For years, researchers had been debunking the age-old notion of a midlife crisis. But a new global study may prove them wrong.
Do you feel confused about who you are and where you're going? Do you feel trapped by your career, lifestyle, family, and friends? Do you find yourself second-guessing decisions you made years ago or even questioning the meaning of life? Not long ago, if you answered yes to these questions and were between the ages of 30 and 60, most experts probably would have chalked your feelings up to a midlife crisis.
Follow these tips to enhance your recall and make your mind more nimble.
Have you ever lost your reading glasses and then found them on top of your head? Have you ever gotten your kids off to school, only to find their lunches still in the refrigerator? If so, you're not alone. According to experts, many of us have minor problems with recall as we age.
Are men really from Mars and women from Venus? Here, we explore the most common assumptions surrounding the sexes.
Men are obsessed with sports, cars, and the remote control. Women are hopeless romantics who can't do math. These are just a few common myths about men and women. Are they just gender stereotypes, or do they contain nuggets of truth? Some studies suggest there are, in fact, distinct differences between the sexes.
Heart disease is the nation's number one killer. Learn what you can do to prevent a heart attack.
This year, 1.2 million Americans are expected to have a heart attack. Of those, about 452,000 will die, making coronary heart disease the nation's single leading cause of death, according to the American Heart Association.
Heart disease can affect anyone, but certain factors put you at greater risk.
An addiction to your job could compromise your health. Find out whether you're workaholic, and get on the road to recovery.
Lately, your spouse has been complaining about the long hours you're putting in at work. Maybe you really want that promotion, or perhaps you just don't trust anyone else to get the job done. Whatever the reason, you've been glued to your desk for weeks, and your personal relationships are starting to suffer.
As average life expectancies increase, people are challenging the old stereotypes of age. Learn what you can do to look and feel great at 50, 60, and beyond.
Victor Hugo once famously said, "Forty is the old age of youth; 50 the youth of old age." But times are changing, and in this first decade of the 21st century, 50 is beginning to take on a whole new meaning. According to the National Center for Health Statistics, the average U.
Concerned about safety and the environment, many women are embracing "natural beauty." Check out these easy ways to start going green.
For most women, the term natural beauty might seem like something of a misnomer. After all, women spend an estimated $200 billion annually on cosmetics--substances that are specially designed to beautify, promote attractiveness, or alter appearance, according to the U.
These daily behaviors can boost your health and increase your longevity.
These days, the average American man can expect to live for up to 74 years, while the average U.S. woman will see her 79th birthday, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although genetics and sheer luck play some part in life expectancy, our longevity also depends largely on the habits we incorporate into our daily lives.
Get the facts about this common and deadly lung disease, which affects 32 million Americans.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is an umbrella name for two frequently coexisting lung diseases: emphysema and chronic bronchitis. People with COPD find that it becomes increasingly difficult to breathe due to partially blocked airways.
Long-term smokers are at the highest risk for the disease, which is the fourth leading cause of death in America.
By donating blood, you can truly give the gift of life. Follow these guidelines to make a difference.
There's perhaps no greater, or more personal, gift you can give than that of your own blood. During earthquakes, floods, fires, and other natural disasters, survivors depend on your contribution for speedy treatment. And in many cases, it can literally mean the difference between life and death.
How important is weight in determining good health?
It's no secret that being fat and out of shape is a health hazard. But what if you're overweight and still physically fit? Does the fact that you're active eliminate the health risks of those extra pounds? And what if your best friend is a skinny couch potato? Which one of you is healthier? As it turns out, the "fat but fit" debate is a longstanding source of controversy among experts.
The relationship between human papillomavirus and cervical cancer is a complex one. Get the facts now.
Human papillomavirus, more commonly known as HPV, has gotten a great deal of attention lately, especially with regard to the HPV vaccine. But what exactly is HPV, and how is it related to cervical cancer?
What is HPV?
HPV is a large family of more than 100 viruses that infect the skin.
Millions of women become pregnant each year, but too many of them don't have all the facts. Here, a look at pregnancy by the numbers.
As soon as a woman discovers she's pregnant, she embarks on a life-altering journey. As the baby grows and changes inside of her, she goes through a series of changes, too. If armed with the right tools and information, she can help ensure a smooth pregnancy and the birth of a healthy baby.
A few simple changes can help take years off your appearance.
High-school reunions can be a shock. Everyone attending is about the same age, so why do some classmates look amazingly young while others look at least a decade older than the rest? Genes play a significant role, of course. Grandma Esther's smooth, wrinkle-free skin may have been passed down to future generations, along with Uncle Jake's slim physique.
The way you view your body can affect your health. Follow these tips for an instant body-image boost.
At some point, most of us have wished that we were thinner, more muscular, or better looking. After all, in today's world, we're constantly bombarded with images of celebrities and models. After a while, many people want to be like them or even believe they're happier because of the way they look.
There's more to Botox than just a pretty face. Doctors are now using the injectable to treat a variety of serious medical conditions.
By now, you've probably seen advertisements for Botox—a popular injectable that relaxes targeted muscles to reduce or eliminate surface wrinkles, giving the skin a smoother, more refreshed appearance. But in recent years, scientists have found that there's much more to the drug than meets the eye.
The first weeks after your baby is born can be exhausting. Find out how to take care of your baby and yourself.
It seems like there's so much to do when your newborn baby first comes home. You've got to learn how to care for the baby, handle sleep disruptions, and adjust to life with a bigger family. You want to make sure your baby is healthy and happy, but don't forget to look out for your own health and happiness.
Bonding before birth is important for both mom and baby. Here's why.
You may not have seen your baby yet, but it's likely that you've already formed a relationship with her. Many new moms say they first feel that connection with their baby when they feel the first kick or see their baby on an ultrasound.
In addition, your baby has probably already begun forming a relationship with you, too, and will be able to recognize your voice and start trusting you.
The demand for organic food continues to grow every year. But is it worth the extra green?
The organic food movement got its start in the 1960s, when increasing environmental awareness and concern about pesticides sparked a new demand for "green" products. Over the past 20 years, the market has grown exponentially, as more and more consumers are seeking safer, more eco-friendly food alternatives.
Working out the wrong way can do more harm than good. To prevent injury, avoid these common fitness flubs.
Regular exercise offers a host of health benefits from preventing heart disease and diabetes to promoting a longer life. But exercising the wrong way can undermine both your fitness goals and your wellness. To prevent injuries and setbacks, the American Council on Exercise and Bill Sonnemaker, 2007 IDEA International Personal Trainer of the Year, recommend that you watch out for the following common pitfalls.
Crowded and bustling malls, repeated trips to the airport to...
Crowded and bustling malls, repeated trips to the airport to fetch long-lost relatives, and the constant shuffling of cookies and turkey out of your oven can translate into one reaction—stress.
So how do you stop from flying off the handle at this supposedly glorious time of year?
Sometimes holiday festivities can become overwhelming.
Follow these easy tips to make exercise part of your daily routine.
Let's face it: We live in an inactive nation where obesity has become a growing epidemic. Approximately 31 percent of American adults, or 59 million of us, meet the criterion for obesity, according to the North American Association for the Study of Obesity.
A growing body of research suggests that antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent the onset of the disease.
There are still many questions surrounding Alzheimer's disease—a degenerative brain disorder and form of dementia that currently has no cure. Although the evidence is not conclusive, several studies, including one conducted by the Alzheimer's Association, suggest that foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent the onset of the disease.
Learn how to spot the warning signs and break the vicious cycle.
Controlling spouses, unstable siblings, friends you just can't trust. Does any of this sound familiar? If so, you may be in a toxic relationship—and you're not alone. According to experts, most Americans have struggled with at least one unhealthy social bond by the time they're in their late teens, and sadly, many continue to endure these connections throughout their lives.
These simple tests can help detect common health conditions before they escalate.
In today's busy world, medical exams often take a backseat to work, family, and other commitments. In fact, 28 percent of women don't go for their annual Pap tests, and only 32 percent know their cholesterol numbers. Could this behavior be compromising your health? Here's a list of five exams you can't afford to put off another day.
Learn how to find the middle ground between being accommodating and being stepped on.
According to a recent University of Iowa study, excessively nice people often feel as if they have no control over their decisions, thoughts, or opinions. As a result, they can become resentful, frustrated, even depressed. Are you too nice for your own good?
10 Telltale Signs That You're Too Nice
1.
Hot flashes can be uncomfortable, frustrating, even scary. Follow this guide to help ease your symptoms.
For many women, hot flashes are menopause's most dreaded symptom. And it's no wonder: These episodes come on suddenly, spreading an intense feeling of heat over the entire body, especially in the head and neck. What's more, they may be accompanied by rapid heartbeat, perspiration, or dizziness.
Breast cancer death rates have been declining, thanks to increased prevention and improved treatments. Here, a look at the disease by the numbers.
Breast cancera malignant tumor that starts from cells in the breastis the most common type of cancer in women, after nonmelanoma skin cancer. It's also the second leading cause of cancer death in women, following only lung cancer.
Fortunately, death rates from breast cancer have been gradually declining in recent years, thanks to increased prevention and improved treatment methods.
There is no guaranteed protection against breast cancer, but there are things you can do to reduce your risk.
An estimated one in eight women will be afflicted with breast cancer in her lifetime. Although there is no guaranteed protection against the disease, there are things you can do lower your risk. Follow these tips to prevent breast cancer and to support finding a cure:
Maintain a healthy weight.
These strategies can help you cope with the most common caregiver emotions.
When you're caring for an elderly loved one, it's normal to feel sad or discouraged from time to time. Ignoring your feelings won't make them go away; in fact, it may even make them grow stronger. Instead, try these six suggestions from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services.
Keeping up with all your health screenings may seem daunting, but this list can get you started on a year of healthy living.
In a perfect world, we'd all know exactly when we need to get our important health screenings. In reality, however, these checkups and exams often take a backseat to work, family, and other obligations.
Fortunately, you can get on the right track by making a simple phone call to your doctor.
Follow these tips to minimize your chances of catching the flu this year.
For some of us, getting the flu each year seems almost inevitable. Even if we get a vaccination, it isn't a guarantee that we won't get sick.
We may feel run down due to our busy schedules, and that's when the flu swoops in, preying on our weakened state.
