The greater your midlife fitness level, the lower your odds are of developing chronic diseases such as heart failure, stroke, diabetes, colon cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Lichen sclerosus is a skin condition that can affect the skin around the vulva and anus causing it to become thin, whitened and sometimes wrinkled. Although there is no cure for lichen sclerosus, it can be controlled with medication.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns cold and allergy sufferers that the improper use of neti pots, a device for rinsing the nasal passages, can cause dangerous infections.
Incorporating balance and strength activities into daily routines-such as by standing on one leg while cooking dinner-may reduce the risk of falling.
Dieters may avoid nuts because they contain so many calories. But nuts are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and nutrients. Limit portions and eat nuts instead of, not in addition to, foods such as red meat.
Some studies show Echinacea helps shorten colds, some do not. Zinc lozenges may shorten symptoms by a few days. Taking steps to avoid catching a cold may be more effective than Echinacea or zinc supplements.
As we age, mental exercise can keep mental skills and memory sharp. Relatively difficult mental activities can help the most. Physical exercise also helps to preserve mental skills with aging.
Having a CT scan to detect early stage lung cancer prevents death in current or former smokers at high risk of developing lung cancer. Early testing and treatment includes potential harms as well as benefits. Talk to your doctor before seeking the test.
Women with mildly elevated blood pressure may want to try non-drug interventions for lowering blood pressure- -such as diet, exercise, and stress management- -before turning to medications.
Screening EKGs or other routine imaging tests are not recommended for women without heart disease risk factors. However, women who are at a higher risk for heart disease should visit a doctor to determine whether they need further testing.