It's an internet joke at this point: Google an innocuous symptom like a sore knee or persistent headache, and 10 minutes later, an online symptom checker gravely warns you that it might be cancer. In a panic, you rush to the doctor, who prescribes aspirin and urges you not to search for symptoms anymore. It really does happen, according to Manhattan podiatrist Emily … [Read more...] about Experts urge caution with online health information
Health
When should you go to the emergency room?
It's easy to see that an accident victim needs emergency treatment. Judging whether a medical condition requires a trip to the emergency room (ER) is more difficult. Get to the ER fast, say doctors at Harvard Medical School, if any of these problems occur:Severe abdominal pain. Especially if there is vomiting, swelling or tenderness of the abdomen or fever. This may signal … [Read more...] about When should you go to the emergency room?
The first three steps for the caregiver
By Barbara HintherI admitted I was powerless over dementia.Like the first step of the 12 steps in the Alcoholics Anonymous program, we have to accept we have no power over this disease. I was caring for my husband who had Lewy body dementia and my life was unmanageable. I came to believe that a power greater than myself could restore me to sanity. The dementia caregiver … [Read more...] about The first three steps for the caregiver
Allergy season is the worst in decades
It's not just your imagination: Allergies really have been more severe this year. Experts chalk this up to a variety of factors, including higher pollen counts in many parts of the country. According to the Salt Lake Tribune, Americans in the western states suffered when mold and other allergens flourished in the hot weather, and drought conditions meant that the pollen could … [Read more...] about Allergy season is the worst in decades
Heart rhythm abnormality on the rise
Atrial fibrillation -- also called AFib -- is on the rise, with an estimated three million diagnosed adults in the US, according to the New York Times. That number is expected to quadruple with rising rates of obesity, diabetes and hypertension among aging adults. AFib is an irregular heartbeat that can sometimes contribute to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other … [Read more...] about Heart rhythm abnormality on the rise