Stents or surgery for clogged neck arteries?
The two main ways that doctors treat narrowed neck arteries prevented death and disability equally effectively in an international clinical study.
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New recommendations about kidney stones
The American College of Physicians recommends that people who have had a kidney stone increase their fluid intake so that they pass at least 2 liters of urine per day.
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Does the nose know your future health?
Diminished smell may be an early sign of neurodegenerative disease. People who experience a diminished smell sense for more than a few weeks should consult with a primary care doctor or an ear, nose, and throat specialist.
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Study shows how combining healthy practices can reduce stroke risk
One healthy habit can reduce stroke risk in women by a fourth; two, by a third; three or four, by nearly half; and four by almost two-thirds.
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Pill-free ways to fight urinary incontinence
The American College of Physicians has new guidelines for incontinence urging doctors to first prescribe pill-free treatments.
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Is your medication affecting your thinking skills?
Some medications can impair thinking skills as a side effect, especially a group of drugs called anticholinergics. These block the effects of a neurotransmitter responsible for stimulation and activity in the brain.
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How to prevent and treat dry skin
Winter is tough on the skin. This is because people are indoors with forced, hot air, which decreases humidity and causes dry skin.
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New year, new approach to health care
Thousands of family medicine practices are switching to a new model of health care delivery called a patient-centered medical home.
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Managing Your Cholesterol
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Flu May Be Severe, Shots Less Effective
A strain of influenza that often causes severe disease is the one seen most often so far in this flu season, health officials say. And this year’s flu vaccine may not protect against all of them. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued the alert December 3. It said that the H3N2 flu strain is found in most virus samples tested this fall. And about half of those have mutated from the strain that is included in vaccines. Shots may offer less protection against these mutated strains, the CDC said. H3 viruses were widespread during the 3 deadliest flu seasons of the last decade. The CDC said people still should get flu shots because they are the best protection available. In some cases, the CDC recommended quick use of antiviral medicines.
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