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Treating insomnia with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT-I) may reduce the risk of depression in older adults. CBT-I seeks to modify thoughts and habits to improve sleep. It outperformed a more traditional insomnia treatment, sleep education therapy (SET), which seeks to change environmental factors and behaviors that contribute to poor sleep.
Consuming less sodium and more potassium may be linked to better heart health, according to a November 2021 study published in the New England Journal of Medicine. After controlling for other risk factors, the researchers found that for every extra 1,000 milligrams (mg) of sodium detected in the urine, there was an 18% increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease. For every extra 1,000 mg of potassium in the urine, there was an 18% decrease in risk.
Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats can last for years after menstrual periods stop. Strategies such as wearing layered clothing that can be removed easily, keeping a small fan nearby, and sleeping in a cool room can help manage symptoms.
A reduction in tear production can lead to a condition called dry eye syndrome. It causes the eyes to become dry and irritated and may be prompted by aging, medication, or hormone shifts. Eye drops and ointments can help relieve symptoms.
Platelet-rich plasma injections are used to reduce pain and speed healing for a number of common problems that affect the tendons, muscles, and joints, ranging from arthritis to shoulder pain. But a growing body of research shows that they may not be effective for some conditions, including knee osteoarthritis, ankle osteoarthritis, and Achilles tendinitis. There is some evidence that it may be effective for lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow). People should consider whether there is a better option before undergoing PRP injections.
Hiking is similar to walking but can be more challenging and can provide a nice change of pace. Walking over uneven terrain typically burns more calories than a walk on a flat surface. It also builds muscle strength and improves balance. A wilderness walk also brings mental health benefits. Choosing a path to a scenic destination may motivate people to go farther and climb higher and increase fitness gains.
A 2021 study found that a low-carb diet may not necessarily be bad for heart health, despite its high saturated fat content. However, the study period was short, and the diet used in the trial was healthier than many low-carb approaches. More research is needed to confirm the results. In the meantime, experts recommend finding a sustainable diet that provides a healthy daily mix of nutritious foods instead of solely looking at carbohydrate content.
Many people experience dizziness, or a feeling of being woozy or lightheaded, from time to time. In most instances it’s triggered by a minor underlying problem, such as dehydration, a medication, or blood pressure fluctuations. Only rarely is dizziness caused by something more serious, such as a heart rhythm disturbance or stroke. However, even if dizziness isn’t caused by something serious, it can lead to a dangerous fall, so it’s important to prevent these episodes when possible. People should get emergency help for dizziness that is long-lasting, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms, such as difficulty walking or numbness.
People who follow a low-carbohydrate/high-fat diet for weight loss often eat high amounts of saturated fat. Even though saturated fat can contribute to cardiovascular disease, a 2021 study suggests that eating higher amounts might not be bad for heart health in the short term.
A 2021 study suggests that sildenafil (Viagra, Revatio), which is used to treat erectile dysfunction and pulmonary arterial hypertension, might also protect against Alzheimer’s disease.