Ailments & Diseases
5 Surprising Reasons You Can't Stop Sneezing
Some of your everyday habits may be making your allergy symptoms even worse. Discover the culprits -- so you can finally get those sneezes and sniffles under control
How to Tell a Cold from the Flu
Although colds and the flu are both respiratory illnesses, they're caused by different types of viruses. The problem is that colds and the flu share symptoms, like coughing and sneezing. Here's how to distinguish between the two
While it's impossible to banish the viruses that cause cold and flu, you can limit your family's exposure to them at home. We sorted through the research to find the smart ways you can protect your family
Hand-washing 101: When Scrubbing up Spreads Germs
Our hands allow us to work, interact and take care of our children -- but they can also make us sick. And, most of us aren't washing correctly. Here's the clean truth about how to kill germs with proper hand-washing protocol
The World's Struggle to Kick the Habit
Packaging has become what some describe as the 'last bastion' of tobacco marketing. And there is much to play for. Consumption of tobacco products continues to grow despite declines in most high-income countries
Smoking Curb that Cost a Packet
Since December 2012, despite the best attempts of the tobacco industry, all tobacco products sold in Australia have been available only in drab dark brown packaging with just a name in standard font to distinguish one brand from another
Some Swear by Chicken Soup to Battle Flu
During flu season, people often look to the kitchen, rather than the medicine cabinet, for relief.
Here are three myths that I hear often in my practice ... and the truth behind each one. Read on; you just might be surprised at the truth behind cold and flu myths
To keep your family healthy and safe this flu season, it's important to know all you can about the flu. Here are seasonal flu fundamentals on everything from symptoms to prevention
What to Eat to Stay Healthy All Winter
Research shows that, in addition to getting your flu shot, eating certain foods can help you avoid the flu -- as well as colds and illness in general. Here's what to add to your grocery cart
Eat Healthy to Lower Blood Pressure
What if you have dangerous, high blood pressure? It's essential to discuss a personalized plan of care, which may include medication. And lifestyle -- diet, exercise and weight loss -- is also key to managing it
Do You Have a Mold Allergy? Fight It!
Do You Have a Mold Allergy? Our plan of attack will help you stop sneezing and sniffling, and get rid of the common mold for good
5 Ways to Make Indoor Winter Air Healthy
Is your home's indoor air dry and unhealthy? Check out these five ways to create healthy indoor air and prevent the ill effects of pollutants and allergens
4 Surprising Habits That Fight Cancer
Here are four surprising yet easy-to-do habits that can help keep cancer at bay
The Health Hazards of Paper Receipts
A new study has found a potentially toxic chemical on receipts and paper money. Here's how to protect yourself
Could Our Drinking Water Be Causing Autism?
A new study finds a link between psychoactive drugs in our water and the rise in autism
A new study showed that 1 in 6 new cancer cases worldwide are related to infections. Find out how to slash your cancer risk
Should Supersize Soda Be Banned?
New York City is proposing to ban sodas and other sweetened drinks that are larger than 16 ounces. Gulp!
Summer Party Foods That Can Make You Sick
Follow these tips to enjoy picnic season and stay healthy
7 Kitchen Mistakes That Cause Food Poisoning
This summer, thousands of people will get sick because they didn't follow food safety rules. Here's what you need to know so you won't be one of them
Yes -- if it's related to sleep apnea, which typically causes loud snoring punctuated by periods of choking silence
Your Worst Bad Breath Situations -- Solved
Bad breath doesn't have to embarrass you. We got Dr. Matthew Messina to give some easy fixes for all your biggest bad breath fears
Fighting Cancer with Plant Foods
Research suggests that many nutrients, phytochemicals and dietary fiber work synergistically, meaning they do more together than independently. Experts' advice is to expand both the amount and variety of the plant foods you eat
Lifesaving Skills Everyone Should Learn
Would you know what to do in a life-threatening emergency?
Emotional Eating: How to Stop It Forever
Soothing yourself with food isn't healthy or wise. But emotional eating is easier to stop than you think
Trim calories, fat and sodium from your favorite takeout dishes with these easy, healthy tricks
American Obesity Epidemic Much Worse Than CDC Believes
The American obesity epidemic might be much worse than many experts believe because of the limitations of the Body Mass Index, which is the most popular number used to diagnose the condition
As many as 5 percent of Americans have NASH and another 20 percent have fat in their liver. Both those numbers are going up, possibly as a side effect of the parallel epidemic of obesity
Do You Need a Pill for Stomach Pain?
If living a 'healthy lifestyle' isn't working to ease your stomach pain, find out why medication may be the answer
Universal Flu Vaccine Could Be Available by 2013
Annual flu shots might soon become a thing of the past, and threats such as avian and swine flu might disappear with them as a vaccine touted as the 'holy grail' of flu treatment could be ready by next year
Fatty Liver: A Lifestyle-Related Epidemic
The obesity epidemic has boosted a plethora of chronic diseases. Now health experts have identified an upswing in yet another chronic condition related to obesity and its partner, diabetes: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Four out of five adults experience tension headaches -- but it doesn't have to be that way. Here are nine simple ways to keep tension headaches at bay
You're sick. You go to the doctor. You want an antibiotic to make you feel better. But when will it actually help?
Chinese Medicine Offers New Parkinson's Treatments
A hooked herb, root extract and a dash of bark -- it may sound like a witch's brew, but these mainstays of Chinese medicine could provide treatments for diseases that have foiled Western doctors, such as Parkinson's and irritable bowel syndrome
A bunion is a deformity of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint at the base of the big toe. A bunion develops when the first metatarsal bone of the foot turns outward and the big toe points inward (toward the other toes), causing the joint to jut out. Here's what you can do about bunions
Gloomy Forecast on Heart Disease
Baby boomers have been blamed for a litany of social woes, from the breakdown of the American family to global warming. The American Heart Association (AHA) adds another: sparking a huge increase in cardiovascular disease and health care costs over the coming decades. But this one boomers could walk away from -- literally
Deviated Septum Usually Doesn't Require Treatment
Is a deviated septum that causes only slight problems worth getting fixed? I have mild sinus problems from time to time but would like to avoid surgery. Is surgery something I'll eventually have to consider?
Coronary Artery Spasms Can Lead to Deterioration of Heart Function
If a coronary artery spasm lasts long enough, it can cause symptoms of angina, such as chest tightness or pressure -- or a crushing, squeezing chest pain. It can also trigger a heart attack or life-threatening heart rhythm disturbance (arrhythmia). Repeated episodes of coronary artery spasm can lead to a deterioration of heart function, setting the stage for heart failure
No Link Found Between Psoriasis and Allergies
What causes psoriasis -- a common skin condition -- is unclear, but no evidence associates psoriasis with allergies. Instead, the condition appears to result from a different type of immune system response within the body
Over-the-Counter Head Lice Treatments Not Always Enough
Head lice seem to be more prominent now than in the past. The reason why is difficult to determine. Perhaps it's simply the natural life cycle of this infestation, or that the public is more aware of head lice. Over-the-counter treatments for head lice can often be effective but don't work in all cases
Kids' Health Ailments Adults Can Get Too
You may think you've put aside childish diseases along with your addiction to Cap'n Crunch, but beware: There are some ailments you can never outgrow
Stressed? Listen to Your Body!
Ever fall asleep thinking about a project at work and wake up the next day with a splitting headache and pain in your jaw? Or been on the go with the kids all day and ended up with stomach cramps and a bad case of the runs? Don't blame it on the weather or bad luck! It could be your body's way of saying you're too stressed out
Virus That Causes Warts Can Be Passed To Others
Warts can spread if left untreated, and the virus that causes warts can be passed to another person. By adulthood, though, most people have developed immunity to the viruses that cause warts.
Broken Bones Can Lead to Fat Embolism Syndrome
When you break a bone, fat tissue from the bone marrow can leak into your blood. In many cases, this doesn't cause any problems. But in some situations, it may lead to a disorder known as fat embolism syndrome (FES). Although uncommon, FES can result in serious complications such as severe lung problems and seizures
Have You Had Your Shingles Shot?
Too few people are getting the vaccine that can prevent a world of pain
Is There Such a Thing as a Healthier Cigarette?
The tobacco industry uses colors and descriptors to entice consumers much the same way the food industry does. The difference is that all cigarettes are equally harmful
Massage Away Allergies with these Expert Moves
Fortunately, Massage can relieve allergy symptoms by improving circulation, lessening anxiety and releasing muscle tension
Broken Heart Syndrome: A Real and Dangerous Condition
Broken Heart Syndrome reflects something doctors have observed over time: People who've lost loved ones can develop a mysterious condition that mimics a heart attack
Here are tips to help you prevent canker sores in the future, and what you can do now to soothe them
How to Stop Ear Pain on a Plane
Here's how to stop ear pain when flying
Is It a Food Allergy ... or Food Intolerance?
Think you might have a food allergy? The truth may surprise you
Youthful Legs No Matter Your Age
Here's two natural herbs and five simple lifestyle habits for youthful legs -- no matter your age
'Holy Grail' of Heart Medicine Could Predict Heart Attacks
Doctors may soon be able to warn patients of an imminent heart attack by isolating and examining a particular kind of cell gathered during a blood test
DASH Diet May Decrease the Need for Medication in Those With Severe Hypertension
Research has found the DASH diet to be an effective way to lower blood pressure in people who have slightly elevated high blood pressure (prehypertension) and in those with stage I (mild to moderate) hypertension
Physical Therapy Can Relieve Heel Pain From Plantar Fasciitis
Although there's no one-size-fits-all approach, the heel pain that results from plantar fasciitis usually can be successfully treated with physical therapy and special equipment that gives the foot extra support
Research to Explore New Orthostatic Tremor Treatments Underway
Orthostatic tremor affects the leg muscles when a person is standing and, to a lesser extent, when walking. It may radiate up from the legs to other parts of the body. Orthostatic tremor can be challenging to treat
Persistent, Pervasive Depression Symptoms During Winter Could Be SAD
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during the winter months. Although exactly what causes SAD is unclear, researchers know that lack of light and the ensuing effect on the body's circadian rhythm seem to play a role. The condition is diagnosed by assessing a person's symptoms. A number of treatment options have been shown to be effective
Identifying Cause of Chronic Constipation First Step Toward Treatment
While the topic may not be considered polite conversation, constipation affects nearly 30 million Americans and costs more than $1 billion annually to evaluate and treat
Graves' Disease Rarely Life-Threatening But Can Lead to Heart Problems
Graves' disease -- a disorder in which the thyroid gland makes more thyroid hormone than the body needs -- is the most common form of hyperthyroidism in the U.S. Although it can affect both women and men and occur at any age, the condition is five to 10 times more common in women and typically starts before age 40
Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance Can Be Controlled Through Diet
The symptoms of lactose intolerance can be controlled through diet. At first, it may be recommended that you eliminate all dairy products to see if your symptoms resolve. However, most people can tolerate small amounts of lactose, so it's usually not necessary to completely avoid dairy products from then on
When Sweating Is Too Much: Hyperhidrosis Can Be Treated
In most cases, excessive sweating isn't dangerous; it's simply embarrassing and inconvenient. But that's reason enough to want to do something about it
Advances In Research Offer Hope for Future of Lupus Treatment
In the last several decades, research has focused on pinpointing genes that predispose people to lupus, investigating molecules that play a role in the disease, and identifying new therapies to treat lupus
Lifestyle Choices Can Help Reduce Risk of Recurrent Breast Cancer
As a breast cancer survivor, you can take steps to help reduce the risk of recurrence. They include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly and limiting the amount of alcohol you drink
Determine Risk of Developing Blood Clots Before Discontinuing Blood-Thinning Medication
I've had two blood clots in two years, but in the past nine months have had no problems. How long do I need to be on warfarin? I'm worried about another blood clot but don't like taking medication
Hello, summer! It's time for picnics, fairs, festivals, swimming pools, water parks … and nasty stomach bugs that often go hand-in-hand with these warm-weather venues
Statins Have Benefits Beyond Protecting Our Arteries
All in all, statins can reduce the risk of heart attacks and other major clinical manifestations of coronary artery disease (CAD) by up to 37 percent. And since heart disease is America's leading cause of death, it's no wonder that the seven statin drugs are the best-selling prescription medications in the United States
Determined Approach to Treatment of Crohn's Disease Can Result in Symptom Relief
Crohn's disease can indeed be a very distressing and frustrating illness, but a determined approach to treatment can often result in symptom relief.
Several Reasons Could Explain Continued Bone Loss
I've been on numerous medications, but my bone density is dropping significantly. I've suffered many fractures. Why aren't medications working for me? Are there more natural ways to slow bone loss?
Say Goodbye to Computer Strain
Whenever you're hunkered down over the computer, I encourage you to take a few of these breaks yourself and do the stretches
Prevent Hearing Loss -- Before It's Too Late
A new study finds that 14 percent of people between ages 45 and 59 have hearing loss. Here's how to make sure you don't become one of them
Train Your Brain to Crave Healthy Foods
It only takes two weeks to see a marked reduction in cravings. To get me started, check out the following tips
Why You Shouldn't Work at Night
An estimated 27 million people in the U.S. are going to work when the rest of us are going to bed. But working the graveyard shift appears to edge you closer to the graveyard
Do Dental X-rays Cause Cancer?
I've had my fair share of dental X-rays, and you probably have too. That's why I was alarmed when I ran across a study that linked annual bitewing X-rays to an increased risk of meningioma
Travel Health: How to Fight 7 In-Flight Ailments
Traveling, whether for work or play, can take its toll on your physical condition. Here are seven health problems you might encounter in transit along with tips for avoiding them
CDC Warns That New Swine Flu Strain Has 'Pandemic Potential'
A paper published by scientists at the Centers for Disease Control suggests a new swine flu virus has the potential to cause an outbreak
Antibiotics Do Nothing to Cure Sinus Infections
According to new research, the antibiotics you're likely taking for sinus infections aren't doing anything to make you feel better
There are ways to beat winter's gloom. We contacted a basket of experts -- including the man who first discovered SAD -- for advice on how to combat the winter funk
Whipple Procedure Most Common Surgery to Remove Pancreatic Cancer
The Whipple procedure is the most common surgery used to remove pancreatic cancer. It involves taking out part of the pancreas and several other structures around it. This surgery is complex and often requires a six- to eight-week recovery. For some people with pancreatic cancer, the Whipple procedure can be a valuable treatment option
Effects of Tapering Off Antidepressants Vary
The impact of tapering off antidepressants can vary significantly from one person to another. The medications differ, too, so the side effects can be different, depending on the medication you're taking
Should Alzheimer's Be a Reason to Ditch Marriage Vows?
It's a phrase you hear in almost every marriage ceremony. ''Til death do us part.' But what about 'a kind of' death? Can you 'kind of' part? That's the debate raging ever since Pat Robertson used those words in justifying divorce if one partner suffers from Alzheimer's
Many Effective Therapies Available to Control Ulcerative Colitis
Although ulcerative colitis currently has no medical cure, many effective therapies are available to control its symptoms
Iron Supplementation Typically Not Recommended for Postmenopausal Women
You're wise to be cautious about taking extra iron. Typically, iron supplementation is not recommended for postmenopausal women, because as women age, their need for iron goes down
Sensitizing Skin to UV Light Can Reduce Symptoms of PMLE
Can anything be done to treat polymorphous light eruption? Staying indoors all summer isn't an option, but I break out in hives every time I spend time in the sun. Will this damage my skin permanently over time?
Sun-Related Skin Condition Triggered By Chemicals in Certain Plants and Fruits
What is phytophotodermatitis? How can you tell the difference between this disorder and other sun-related skin conditions?
Hypertension All Too Common Despite Excellent Treatments
Hypertension is one of the biggest medical problems in America; it sharply increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, heart failure, and kidney failure. That's also a shame, since excellent drugs are available to lower blood pressure and prevent these deadly complications
Vitamin D Deficiency Can Lead to Serious Bone Disorders
Vitamin D deficiency is common. Unlike most other vitamins, getting enough vitamin D doesn't depend solely on diet or supplements. Exposure to sunshine also contributes to a person's daily production of vitamin D. Not having enough vitamin D in the body can cause a variety of problems. Bone weakness is one of the most serious
Belly Fat Increases Risk of Developing Serious Health Problems
What is it about belly fat that makes it more dangerous than fat in other places? I'm considered to be at a healthy weight. But I do have somewhat of a belly, which concerns my physician. Isn't it just a normal part of getting older?
Minimally Invasive Treatments Available For Bothersome Leg Veins
People with varicose veins may dread wearing beachwear and other clothes that expose their legs. With the arrival of summer, this may be a good time to do something about that. But it's not just a cosmetic consideration. Varicose veins can cause pain and discomfort and even, in rare cases, bleeding leg sores. Treating enlarged leg veins can relieve discomfort and prevent complications
Self-Care Steps Can Help Control Periodontitis Over the Long Term
I have periodontitis. What causes this? Is there anything I can do to make sure my condition doesn't worsen?
Nuclear Stress Test Can Help Evaluate Symptoms of Coronary Artery Disease
A nuclear stress test measures blood flow to the heart muscle both at rest and during stress on the heart. Nuclear stress tests are usually done to evaluate the possible presence of coronary artery disease. The test can be done while a person is exercising or by using a drug that increases blood flow to the heart
Thyroiditis May Be to Blame for Switching Between Hypo- and Hyperthyroidism
If you don't have a history of thyroid problems, the most common reason for a change in thyroid function is inflammation of the thyroid gland (thyroiditis).
Treatment For Dry Eyes Focuses on Relieving Symptoms
Dry eye disease is common and can develop for many reasons. Usually, the condition is chronic and cannot be cured. Instead, treatment for dry eyes focuses on relieving symptoms
Tummy Troubles? Try Exercise for Stomach Pain
Suffer from stomach pain due to heartburn or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Then get movin'. Prevailing wisdom suggests that regular exercise can actually ease symptoms of IBS, while inactivity makes IBS symptoms worse
Metabolic Syndrome: Are You At Risk?
Sure, you've heard of metabolic syndrome, but do you know what it is? More important, could you have it? A new study shows that Americans' risk of developing metabolic syndrome is rising -- and the consequences can be deadly
Thorough Evaluation Required to Determine Cause of Daily Headache
I get a headache in the same spot almost every day, and many nights it wakes me from sleep. It's a very sharp pain that usually lasts a few hours and it comes in waves. What could be causing these headaches?
Rare Disorder Affecting Blood Vessels Requires Specialty Care
Elevated Heart Rate Most Likely Caused by Medical Condition
FDA Limits Prescription Acetaminophen
Chronic Bronchitis Causes and Treatment
Several Factors to Consider Before Taking Calcium Supplements
Colon Cancer Symptoms Similar in Different Age Groups
Blood Disorder Causes Body to Make Too Many Red Blood Cells
The Shingles Vaccine: Would You Use It?
Cold Feet That Aren't Cold to the Touch May Indicate Neurologic Problem
Preventing Stroke: You Can Change Some Factors That Increase Your Risk
Stomach Muscles Working Incorrectly Can Lead to Gastroparesis
Chronic Acid Reflux May Lead to Barrett's Esophagus For Some
Insulin Toppled As Ruler of Diabetes
Diet Does Play a Role in the Development of Some Forms of Arthritis
ADD Begins in Childhood But Can Continue Into Adulthood
Dreary Days Got You Down? Beat the Winter Blues
Eat This: Foods That Help Heartburn
6 Common Myths and Misconceptions About Diabetes
Atrial Fibrillation Won't Cause Heart Attack But Can Lead to Other Serious Complications
Difficulties With Memory and Thinking May Develop in Some People With Parkinson's
Most Cases of Gynocomastia Don't Cause Long-Term Complications
Sarcopenia: The New Osteoporosis
When Eyes Get Dry, And What You Can Try
Natural Orifice Surgery Minimizes the Trauma of Open Surgery
Goal of Treatment for Alpers' Disease is to Ease Symptoms
Treatment Options For Poor Circulation in the Feet
Naked Mole Rats Helping Scientists Tackle Human Medical Woes
Possible Risk Associated With Taking Vitamin E Supplements
Keeping Cancer From Coming Back: Should Survivors Take Supplements?
Disease of the Bile Ducts May Lead to Liver Damage or Failure
When Discovered Early Whipple's Disease Can Often Be Treated With Antibiotics
Is Anterior Hip Replacement Better?
Self-Care Steps Can Help Keep Blood Pressure in Normal Range
Overcoming Insomnia: Lifestyle Changes, Medication, Psychotherapy Can Help
Monitoring Cholesterol Valuable Way to Assess Ongoing Risk of Heart Disease
What Can I Do About Blepharitis?
Stay Healthy With Smart Contact Lenses
Symptoms Could be Caused by Allergy Related to Snowy Weather
Update From the Common Cold Front
The Headache Trigger You Haven't Considered
Even Light Smoking Carries Significant Risk
Beating High Blood Pressure With Food: 10 Tips
Macular Degeneration Doesn't Cause Blindness
Recurrent Diverticulitis Often Requires Surgery
Various Treatment Options Available for Large Bartholin Cyst
Hoarseness Can Be More Than a Temporary Nuisance
A Doctor Talks About Radiation Risk From Medical Imaging
Treatment For Rare Form of Endometrial Cancer Can Be Complex
Cause of Initial Stroke Guides Future Stroke Prevention Strategies
NMO and MS Take Different Courses and Require Different Treatments
Rare Muscle and Skin Disorder Can Be Difficult to Treat
Music Only Path to Movement for Some People With Motor Disorders
What Could Dreams About Teeth Mean?
The Obesity-Cancer Connection: Hormones and Chemicals in Fat Can Set the Stage
Are You Diabetic? 6 Tips That Will Keep You Out of the Hospital
Health Hints for Cold Weather: As the Seasons Change, So Does Air Quality
What to Do About Dry Skin In Winter
What Can You Tell Me About Surgery for Vertebral Fractures?
Several Possible Causes Could be Source of Hand Tremors
Variety of Factors Influence Breast Cancer Screening Schedule
Low White Blood Cell Count Not Always a Sign of Medical Problem
Endoscopic Ultrasound Produces Detailed Images From Deep Within the Body
Are Those Canker Sores or Cancer?
Seasonal Flu and Swine Flu Fundamentals
Holiday Food That Makes You Sick
Shingles: Prevention Is the Way to Go
Methylprednisolone Relieves Shortness of Breath Not Emphysema
For Most, Screening for Colon Cancer Should Begin at Age 50
Adverse Effects of Scoliosis Depend on Magnitude of the Curvature
Common Cold: How Close Are We to a Cure?
Heart Attacks Come in All Kinds and Sizes
Living With Fibromyalgia: Steps to Limit Your Pain
Treatment Goal for Fuch's Dystrophy Is To Control the symptoms
Keratitis Cornea Infection Can Be Cured With Prompt Treatment
Cholesterol-Lowering Medications May Also Be Good for Prostate
Surgery to Remove a Bunion Not a Quick Fix
