Frequent spring allergy questions answered

Spring is in the air - and that means pollen, mold spores and other airborne allergens are going to bring on sneezing and wheezing for an estimated 40 to 50 million Americans. Read More

Digestive tract not on track? [Infographic]

Facts matter when your health is at stake

Learning that you have a disease or medical condition can be overwhelming. You need to learn more about your condition. You may get advice from all directions. In the end, you want to understand your treatment options so that you can discuss your choices with your health care provider. But how do you know what information to trust? Read More

A year-end report card on school cafeterias: Did they make the grade for improved nutrition?

The 2012-2013 school year brought a new curriculum to school cafeterias across the United States. For most of the country's 17,000 school districts, it was an accelerated class, requiring the complete revision of school menus, from ingredients to food pairings to recipes, to meet the new USDA nutrition guidelines. Read More

May is International Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Awareness Month [Infographic]

Cleaning the right way to remove allergens

When you're done with spring cleaning, you may assume you've eliminated any allergy triggers that were lurking in your home. But the truth is, if you don't clean the right way, you might be making the problem worse. To maximize your cleaning efforts and reduce allergens, consider these simple tips. Read More

Helping the brain use alternative fuel may ease symptoms of Alzheimer's

Whether a patient faces a simple health problem, such as a head cold, or one as complex as Alzheimer's disease, relieving the symptoms is often as important as resolving the issue itself. Yet for the more than 5 million Americans affected by Alzheimer's, treating the symptoms is even more vital. Read More

Iron matters for patients with chronic kidney disease

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major health problem in the United States, impacting more than 25 million Americans, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Kidneys perform many important functions in the body, including regulating and controlling the production of red blood cells. When kidneys are not fully functioning, the production of red blood cells can decline and cause anemia in many CKD patients. Read More

Nearly 1 in 10 Americans lives with a rare disease

Did you know that the same number of people die each year from idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, or IPF, as breast cancer? And yet IPF, a rare and debilitating disease that causes permanent scarring of the lungs, is still relatively unknown. Read More

Leading a well-balanced lifestyle [Infographic]

Simple steps to a healthier heart

For millions of Americans, the battle against heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions goes on year-round. The steps to achieve better heart health can be simple. Experts agree that heart disease can be both preventable and controllable with the appropriate lifestyle changes. Read More

Help your pet shed unhealthy weight

Are you killing your pet with kindness? We're not talking about the compassion that motivates us to vaccinate our pets, or keep them warm in cold weather. Kindness that can be harmful to pets comes in the form of an overabundance of food and treats. The all-too-common result is a pet that becomes overweight or even obese. If your pet needs to lose a pound or two, here are some helpful tips. Read More

The impact of rare diseases on patients and caregivers in the United States [Infographic]

Safety tips for seniors: reducing risk, increasing peace of mind

If you're just entering retirement, chances are you have many years of good health and independence ahead. But the normal aging process still brings limitations that we all need to prepare for - such as slower reaction times and declining vision - which can lead to accidents and injuries. Many accidents are preventable though, and you can take simple measures to enhance your safety as you age. Read More

Turn over a new leaf this season with a home energy makeover

As the seasons change, turn over a new leaf and give your home an energy makeover. You can improve your home's comfort while helping the environment by making your home more energy efficient. Read More

Pregnancy can be a beautiful thing

The big news that a baby is on the way is a time for celebration, excitement and planning. Many couples choose to keep this information quiet for the first couple of months, so they can celebrate the upcoming change in their life together. But sometimes, morning sickness for the mom-to-be can let the news out of the bag earlier than intended. Read More

Good sleep is essential to leading a healthy life

Improving family connections with better hearing

Does this sound familiar? You tell your spouse all about the aggravating thing that happened at work today. He or she seems to be nodding in agreement, until you ask what you should do about the situation. Your spouse's response? "Um - could you repeat that?" Read More

Science fiction is now science fact: There's hope for aging eyes with macular degeneration

Imagine what it's like to slowly lose your vision over time - until one day you no longer can read, see the faces of loved ones or participate in your favorite hobbies. Severe vision loss is a reality for people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a disease of the retina that affects more than 9.1 million people in the United States. But now there's hope, and although it may seem like science fiction, it's reality. Read More

Diabetic nerve pain is different than a muscle ache or sprained ankle

One of the most common complications of diabetes is diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a form of nerve damage. More than one in five people with diabetes experiences painful DPN, also known as diabetic nerve pain, as a direct result of this nerve damage. But despite its prevalence, there are many people who go untreated and do not realize the pain they are feeling is related to their diabetes. Read More

Make laundry safety a priority this summer - and always

Sunnier skies and summertime fun are just around the corner, and with them comes plenty of outdoor activities like longs days at the playground, sporting events and barbecues. With so many options, the last thing most people want to think about is household responsibilities … but all that outdoor fun can add up to a lot of laundry. Read More

Go nuts and celebrate your health with a handful

Good things really do come in small packages. And when it comes to your health, pistachios pack a powerful punch: They help you manage your weight, may help reduce blood pressure and a study published in the "International Journal of Impotence Research" shows they may even help with erectile function. Here are three big reasons why you should unshell and celebrate your health with a handful. Read More

The truth about losing weight: Separating facts from fiction (and magic pills)

Losing weight can dramatically improve your emotional and physical health, but it's often a slow process. Millions of American adults use dietary supplements to lose weight, choosing a range of products that claim to decrease appetite, block fat absorption or increase metabolism. But with hundreds of products on the market, how do you determine which one to choose? Read More

Experience an extraordinary life with diabetes

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately one in 10 Americans is living with diabetes and one in three adults could have diabetes by 2050. While every case requires an individual treatment plan, with the right attitude and management, people living with diabetes have an opportunity to overcome the challenges they face. Read More

Why a normal Pap test may not mean you are cancer-free

Many women know that getting a Pap test regularly from their health care provider is a good way to check for signs of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer in women worldwide. What they might not know is that a "normal" Pap result does not necessarily mean they are cancer-free. Read More

What every parent needs to know about keeping kids safe around medicine

Every year more than 67,000 children are treated in an emergency room for accidental medicine poisoning. That's one child every eight minutes. Even more surprising is that in 86 percent of serious cases seen in emergency rooms, the child got into medicine belonging to an adult. Read More

How you eat helps preserve your vision [Infographic]

Suppress the sneeze: Tips to help prep your home for allergy season

The season of sneezing has made its annual return and that can only mean one thing for homeowners: preventative cleaning measures. Especially true for allergy and asthma sufferers, there is no better time to get a head start on prepping your home against unwanted allergens than the early weeks of spring. Read More

Rare Disease Day is February 28 [Infographic]

Baby boomers and age-related eye disease

As the population continues to age at an unprecedented rate, the concern about age-related eye disease comes more into focus. Read More

Resistant hypertension [Infographic]

Five reasons Asian Americans should get tested for hepatitis B

More than 1 million Americans have a lifelong, or chronic, infection of hepatitis B. This includes one out of every 12 Asian Americans. If you or your parents were born in Asia or the Pacific Islands, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that you get tested for hepatitis B. Read More

Expecting dinner guests? Tips for managing different diets

With food allergies and gluten intolerance on the rise, it takes more than seating flexibility and a vegetarian option to host a successful dinner party these days. Hosts today need to be able to accommodate a variety of dietary needs, from providing kosher foods to gluten and nut-free items. Read More

Programming your child's health - 5 nutrition tips for baby's future health

Studies show that what a woman eats just before and during pregnancy will impact the health of her child for the rest of his or her life. It's an area of research called fetal programming. Here are some nutritional tips for mothers to help support their children's future health. Read More

New study results make choosing a blood glucose meter easier [Infographic]

Smarter snacking for spring and summer

The air turns mild and warm, people gladly shed winter coats, and the days grow longer-everything about spring is lighter and brighter. Since the warmer months bring about many occasions to enjoy the best of backyard cookouts and boardwalk fare, the season's more indulgently delicious offerings may cause us to consider departing from our wellness goals. Read More

Baby boomers and driving vision - maintaining safety and independence

It is estimated that by 2030, nearly one in five adults will be 65 and older, and nearly double the 40 million today by 2050. This will lead to a significant increase in older adults driving vehicles for both necessity and pleasure. Unfortunately vision, cognitive skills and motor functions decline as we age. Here's what you need to know to keep your vision health in top shape, particularly while on the road driving. Read More

The right home tools for a healthier lifestyle

Even with the best intentions, many of us who resolve to live a healthier lifestyle in 2013 will fall back into old, familiar habits much sooner than we would like. To maintain motivation and create a routine that is both sustainable and effective, it's important to invest in the right tools for every room in your house. Read More

Cycling to help stop diabetes

Tour de Cure is a fun way to get out with your family, friends or co-workers and has routes designed for all riders - from 5-mile family rides to 100-mile century rides. It is a ride, not a race, so participants are encouraged to go at their own pace. Read More

Boomers turning 65 face complex healthcare choices

Every day, about 10,000 baby boomers turn 65 and become eligible for Medicare. Not everyone will sign up, but it's important to understand the importance of early choices when enrolling in Medicare for the first time. Read More

Foot care tips to keep you moving while on vacation

Decongestant, check. Sunscreen, check. Antacids, check. So you're going on vacation and your bag is well-stocked with remedies for every illness that could possibly derail your good time - from sunburn to an upset stomach. While you're taking steps to preserve your good health on vacation, don't overlook the body part that will carry you through all that fun: your feet. Read More

COPD and women [Infographic]

Graduate certificates help nurses advance their careers

As the U.S. health care system continues to evolve, industry demand for more highly educated nurses is growing. Data from the American Association of Colleges of Nursing shows current and prospective nurses are responding to rising education requirements: enrollment in all types of programs at nursing schools across the country increased from 2010 to 2011. Read More

To comfort a cold or flu, home remedies make a world of difference

For generations, families have passed down home-spun remedies that can help loved ones feel that even during those sniffles and sneezes, they're cared for. Having a bowl of grandma's famous soup or your aunt's special healing concoction can help your body heal and set your mind at ease. Recently, a group of Latina mom bloggers shared their families' home remedies that bring comfort to loved ones. Read More

Be berry aware [Infographic]

Expert fitness tips for a healthy, effective summer slim-down

While children long for the lazy carefree days of summer, many adults view the season as a reason to be active and get healthy. Whether to look good for an upcoming beach vacation or simply to have the energy to enjoy the season to the fullest - setting health goals is a great first step. Sticking to those aspirations doesn't have to be difficult or stressful. Just follow a few expert tips and you'll look and feel great in no time. Read More

New initiative celebrates unsung heroes of severe allergy awareness

Boomers and beyond: A 5-step action plan for keeping your heart healthy

More baby boomers and older adults are taking a proactive approach to heart health. Living a heart-healthy lifestyle in your golden years and dealing with any type of diagnosis head-on is the smart way to keep your heart pumping strong for many years to come. Following these five easy steps can help you take control. Read More

Simple ways to reduce excess sugar in your diet this summer

Warm weather offers many sweet delights, from trips to the beach and more free time, to seasonal foods and soirees with family and friends. Unfortunately, many of the foods we commonly associate with spring and summer are high in added sugars. Hidden sugar in summer foods can make it a challenge to regulate calories and stay on track with your health goals. Read More

Laser spine surgery helps seniors find relief from lumbar spinal stenosis

Do you have lower back pain or burning pain or numbness in your legs? Are these symptoms slightly relieved by leaning forward or sitting, but made worse by standing up straight or walking? You may have lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). Read More

Bone and joint pain in America [Infographic]

Reinvent dinner in minutes with common pantry staples

Busy families face the dinnertime challenge every day. Not only do they need to find a nutritious meal the entire family will enjoy, but they need to do so in a limited amount of time. With a few tricks, it's easy to get out of the dinner rut and score big with tasty, wholesome meals that use pantry staples in creative ways. Read More

Fitness tips to get ready for summer fun

The sun is shining longer every day, telling you that it's time to get ready for vacations, activities with family and friends and of course, swimsuit season. To help you prepare, there are some simple fitness tips you can follow to look and feel good this summer season. Read More

Staying at the top of your game

We feel our best when we do our best. At the top of our game is where we all want to be. This is as true in the workplace as it is on the basketball court. But to stay at the top of your game at work and in life, you need to stay primed - ready for that next big play. It requires staying alert; keeping your skills sharp; and hearing your best. That's right - hearing your best. Listening is one of the top skills employers look for in those being promoted. Read More

What is your arthritis I.Q.? [Infographic]

The skinny on lighter fare for summer

It's possible to enjoy light summer dining without sacrificing taste, variety or fun - all the good things we associate with warm weather eating. Here are ideas for better-for-you versions of some summer favorites. Read More

Get glowing with simple tips for summer skincare

You are unique - your nutrition should be too

Remember when you were a child and the world was big - full of adventure and possibility? You ate your favorite cereal for breakfast, lunch and dinner and at the end of every day, your mom would make you take those little multi-flavored vitamins usually shaped like a popular cartoon character. You didn't necessarily understand why you had to take these, but you always did what your mom told you - because mother knows best. Read More

Paula Deen encourages you to take a walk in her footsteps and start seeing diabetes in a new light

Paula Deen and her sons, Bobby and Jamie are helping adults find simple ways to manage everyday challenges associated with type 2 diabetes. Read More

Healthy foods and creative recipes provide vitamin D when sunshine is scarce

When days are short and sunshine is scarce, it's only natural to feel a little out of sorts. The sun is the body's chief source of vitamin D, and for many Americans, clouds and cold temperatures can lead to deficiencies. Fortunately, there are other sources that provide this important vitamin - some of which come in a deliciously edible form. Read More

Lou Gehrig's Disease stalks military veterans

Many U.S. military veterans like retired Air Force Technical Sergeant David Masters of Omaha, Neb. have bravely fought for their country only to return home to wage another battle against Lou Gehrig's Disease. No one knows why, but veterans are twice as likely to develop this fatal disease clinically known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Read More

Safer flying strategies for travelers with peanut allergies

Coping with a peanut or tree nut allergy, however, doesn't mean you - or your peanut- or tree nut-allergic child - have to forego the convenience of air travel. You can take steps to minimize your risk of having an allergic reaction while flying. Read More

Learn how to be healthy, active and live well with diabetes

Whether you are at risk for, have been recently diagnosed with, or are living with diabetes, it is essential to make sure you have the information necessary to manage your disease. Read More

Age-related complications of iron overload in NTDT syndromes [Infographic]

Five things to do before sending your child to camp wearing hearing aids

Summer is approaching and many parents will be sending their children off to camp. If your child wears hearing aids and is set to attend a summer camp for kids of all abilities, there are five things you can do to help your child get the most from his or her summer camp experience. Read More

Nurses lead revolution toward improved health care delivery

The health care industry has evolved since a series of sweeping legislative reforms began to take effect in 2010. New policies and regulations, millions of new patients and the introduction of advanced technology have added pressure to an already complex system. As this transformation continues, health care leaders are keeping an eye on how the system is functioning to ensure these changes fuel improved health care delivery. Read More

Better romance to beat the seasonal blues

As spring struggles to break through in much of the country, many of us can't help being affected and feeling comfort food, sitcoms and even chocolate aren't enough to lift our mood. Relationship expert Ian Kerner, Ph.D, the author of five books on sex and relationships, including "Sex Recharge," shares how to beat the seasonal blues by getting back into bed. Read More

Living with chronic pain? Find the right help

When a person is in pain, he or she will seek options to attempt to reduce the pain or make it go away entirely. For minor pains like headaches, muscle aches and small wounds, often over-the-counter drugs can help reduce the suffering. But people with chronic pain may have to search for other solutions. A pain physician, like an anesthesiologist, is a patient's best solution provider for treating chronic pain conditions. Read More

Trouble falling back to sleep? How to beat middle of the night wakefulness

Have you been hitting the snooze button on your insomnia? Or wishing you could? Waking in the middle of the night is the No. 1 sleep problem in America, according to National Sleep Foundation annual polls. You may already know what to do to get to sleep, but if you tend to wake in the night and have difficulty returning to sleep, keep these tips in mind. Read More

What to do when your drinking becomes a problem

There's no denying that drinking is a widely accepted element of social life in America. Cocktail parties, evenings out, formal functions, and even a drink or two with dinner are customary practices. However, alcohol abuse is a major problem in this country and, on a different level, many "social drinkers" probably don't even know that they have a drinking problem. So how much alcohol is too much? Read More

When ordinary distraction is something more: diagnosing ADHD

What parent hasn't had to call a child's name more than once to get his attention? Or wondered how she can still be "bouncing off the walls" at the end of a long, tiring day. Moments of intense activity or occasional inattention are typical kid behavior, but for some children the problem is extreme and impairing. How can parents tell if their child's energy or distraction is ordinary or something more? Read More

How your diet can help save your vision [Infographic]

New technologies offering hope for those with tinnitus - or ringing in the ears

If you experience a constant ringing in your ears that's bothersome at best and debilitating at worst, you are far from alone. Tinnitus affects roughly one in five Americans and about 16 million people have serious tinnitus that requires medical attention. It's also the most common disability for military veterans, since it can be caused by extended exposure to loud noise. Read More

Rethink what you drink [Infographic]

Sleep in America: Exercise your right to sleep [Infographic]

The wedding shoe trend for everyone: pain-free and pretty

Sparkles, spangles and color, new or vintage, whatever your preference in wedding shoe styles there's one trend that every bride should get behind: comfort. Here is some advice for choosing the most comfortable options in some popular wedding styles. Read More

For chronic hepatitis C patients and their doctors, treatment discussions shouldn't wait

Bringing home baby: When to call the doctor

Most new parents are anxious when their infant has a fever, or is fussy, stuffy and simply not acting right. But how do you decide to call the pediatrician or to wait - especially in the middle of the night? Read More

Organ donation: gift of a second chance at life

In 2012, there were more than 115,000 people in the U.S. awaiting an organ transplant - enough to overflow the country's largest football stadium. Each year, more than 28,000 Americans receive a donated organ, but sadly, more than 6,500 people die each year waiting for an organ. It is, however, a problem with a solution - one that depends a lot on education and selflessness. Are you registered as an organ donor? Here is what you need to know. Read More

What is weighing us down? [Infographic]

Flip-flop fans: Hard, cold facts about your favorite hot weather footwear

No matter how much you adore your flip-flops, they shouldn't be all-occasion footwear. Sometimes, they can lead to sore feet or even severe injury. The secret to safely enjoying flip-flops through summer is two-fold. First, find the right style, and second, know when to wear flip-flops and when to wear something else. Read More

TV tip-overs a hazard for young children

Many homes have new TVs decorating the living room, bedroom, den and even the kitchen. These TVs often feature the latest wide, flat screens, which give viewers great definition and clarity. But while they provide a beautiful viewing experience, flat screen TVs are top-heavy on a narrow base, and they can easily be pulled off an entertainment center or other piece of furniture. Read More

Creating the perfect sleep environment this spring

Everyone, including moms and doctors, can agree that a good night of sleep is necessary for good health, high energy, and an individual's overall well-being. Not getting enough good sleep - or rapid eye movement sleep - can affect the mind and body's ability to react appropriately to outside factors, the National Sleep Foundation reports. Read More

Address your skin's needs through a holistic approach to facial skincare

Many women cite a number of external factors that can trigger sensitive skin flare-ups, including harsh ingredients, weather and makeup. What they may not know is that lifestyle choices can also influence the health and appearance of their skin. Follow these top tips from the experts to get flawless skin. Read More

Understanding lung cancer [Infographic]

Dining outdoors? Tips for keeping food safe and delicious

Al fresco dining is one of the great pleasures of warm weather. Whether you're hosting a neighborhood barbecue or an intimate dinner party on your deck, outdoor dining is a great way to savor good food, company and the great outdoors. To ensure your meals are safe and enjoyable, it's important to know how to prepare, transport and store food for outdoor eating. Read More

Knowing your health heritage: the familial link of diseases

Family members can have many things in common, including physical characteristics and personality traits. While some traits are obvious, like having red hair or blue eyes, some shared traits are not as obvious, such as the risk for developing a common medical condition, like high cholesterol, or a rare disease. Read More

Thyroid awareness [Infographic]

Preventing medication fraud and abuse starts at home

Prescription drug abuse has reached epidemic proportions across the United States. More than 6 million Americans abuse prescription drugs and much of the abuse begins at home, according to a national survey on drug use and health. In fact, more than 70 percent of those who illegally use prescription pain relievers obtained them through friends or family, including surreptitiously raiding the home medicine cabinet. However, a recent study revealed that only 19 percent of parents are concerned about the misuse of narcotic pain medicines in their own families, showing that many do not recognize the severity of the problem. Read More

Salty snacks reduce stress

Stress affects everyone and can cause problems at work, home and with health. Researchers have found that stress is a leading cause of illness, affecting as much as 20 percent of the population. Economic factors, such as a recession, have also been shown to significantly increase population-wide stress levels. Read More

Health watch: Superbug infections putting more at risk

As new medical breakthroughs emerge, the role of antibiotics has also evolved and helped patients dealing with anything from ear infections to serious lung infections like pneumonia. However, antibiotics are not foolproof. Bacteria, when exposed to antibiotic drugs, can learn how to resist them. These resistant bacteria are known as superbugs, which are harder for antibiotics to kill. Here's what you need to know. Read More

Rare Disease Impact Report quantifies patient and caregiver challenges on journey to diagnosis and beyond

Getting a diagnosis is just the first of many challenges patients with rare diseases - and their caregivers - face. Read More

Free birth control gives women more choice

Thanks to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) also known as "Obama Care," an estimated 47 million women are gaining access to all FDA-approved methods of birth control free of charge. This new law provides access to birth control methods that may have been too expensive for many women with private health insurance plans before the ACA provisions took effect last year. The result is that these women will now have more options to choose from as they decide what method works best for them. Read More

Zapping top myths about laser hair removal

For people considering laser hair removal for the summer, there's good news - now is the perfect time to start. Easily hidden under typical cool weather clothing like bulky sweaters and leggings, skin is shielded from the sun and thus in perfect condition for hair removal. However, many men and women are on the fence when it comes to investing in long term hair removal due to several common misconceptions. Read More

Ask the Pharmacist: Poison prevention starts at home

It's a serious problem with a simple solution. Nearly 1 million children under the age of 5 are exposed to potentially poisonous medicines and household chemicals, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There is no better time than now to learn more about preventing accidental and unintentional poisonings. Read More

National Infant Immunization Week: a reminder of the importance of vaccination for children

Immunizations have had an enormous impact in helping to improve the health of children in the United States, according the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). While vaccination has helped to reduce many childhood diseases, some of these diseases still exist and could reappear if vaccination coverage wanes. Read More

Five super nutrients that help you age well

Parents often use the adage "You are what you eat!" to encourage children to make healthy food choices, but the saying is equally true for mature adults. Providing your body with a variety of nutrients lets you feel your best, and may even prevent disease and help you live longer. Consider these five super nutrients for your diet. Read More

A 'not-so-rare' story in the journey of a rare disease diagnosis

Cushing's disease is a rare but serious, debilitating endocrine disorder caused by the presence of a non-cancerous pituitary tumor in the brain which ultimately leads to excess cortisol in the body. Here's what you should know about Cushing's disease. Read More

Putting together the pieces to manage childhood asthma [Infographic]