Month: April 2010

Both of my father’s sisters died of breast cancer years ago, one before menopause, the other just after. I have an 18-year-old daughter. I’ve been wondering if I should talk to her about getting tested for the breast cancer gene. I’m the dad.

The Health Letter reviews the major health news of the year, including health care reform, the H1N1 flu pandemic, a possible alternative to warfarin that has fewer side effects, and questions about the need for testing for certain cancers.

Topical pain-relief products provide quick relief for sore muscles and joints, but they vary in effectiveness. People whose stomachs are sensitive to oral pain relief medications may prefer to use a cream or ointment.

Deer tick nymphs are most active in the warmer spring and summer months. A tick bite can lead to Lyme disease or other illnesses.

Within a three-month period, both my sister and her husband (both in their 40s) were hospitalized with pulmonary embolisms. Any thoughts on the cause? Could it be something in the air?

I was diagnosed with asthma five years ago, and my doctor prescribed an inhaler to use daily. I haven’t had any symptoms for a year now, even though I stopped using my inhaler. Can asthma go away?

I am taking Boniva for osteoporosis. I read that an alleged women’s health expert said that osteoporosis drugs like the one I’m taking actually make bones weaker by stopping the body from breaking down old bone, and causing jaw disease. Is this true?