Category: harvardhealth_news_UNDEFINED

Body mass index (BMI) is determined by a combination of one’s weight and height. A BMI of 18.5 to 24.9 represents a healthy weight, 25 to 29.9 is overweight, and 30 or greater is obese. BMI is a better measure of health than just weight, but it still has its flaws. It doesn’t assess body fat as well in older folks as it does in younger adults. And it doesn’t distinguish between fat that’s in the belly from fat in other places, like the hips. For this reason, measurements comparing waist to hip size are also used.

There are lots of reasons for numbness or tingling in the limbs. Constant or recurrent symptoms point to a potentially serious cause. One possibility is peripheral neuropathy, which damages nerves throughout the body. Another is peripheral artery disease—a narrowing of the arteries in the limbs that reduces blood flow. Another is nerve compression, which might be caused by sciatica (irritation of the sciatic nerve in the legs) or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal). When numbness or tingling persists, one should report the symptoms to a doctor right away.

Lots of people feel embarrassed during a doctor visit. They may be uncomfortable talking about certain conditions, disrobing, or admitting that they didn’t follow the doctor’s orders. To combat those feelings, it helps to mentally prepare for an appointment. One can question whether certain fears are realistic, chat with a friend for outside perspective, or practice relaxation techniques. During an appointment, it helps to speak up, share concerns, and advocate for oneself and ask for accommodations to deal with embarrassing issues or awkward situations.

The results of a small trial published online in July 2021 by the journal Menopause found that both vaginal estrogen and fractional CO₂ laser therapy are effective for postmenopausal symptoms related to skin problems of the vulva and vagina.

Melanoma doesn’t only affect the skin; it can sometimes occur in and around the nails on the fingers and toes. People should examine the nails as well as the skin for signs of cancer. One sign to look for is dark streaks or bands under the nail.

The results of a small trial published online in July 2021 by the journal Menopause found that both vaginal estrogen and fractional CO₂ laser therapy are effective for postmenopausal symptoms related to skin problems of the vulva and vagina.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of thousands of manmade chemicals that are widely used in products such as nonstick pans, stain repellants for furniture and carpets, cosmetics, and industrial products. These compounds are dangerous to human health and may lead to immune system problems and increased risk of certain cancers. Avoiding exposure by filtering water and choosing PFAS-free products can help to reduce those risks.

Intrusive thoughts are unwanted thoughts or mental images that make people feel uncomfortable. They’re common, affecting some six million Americans and can be effectively managed using tools such as cognitive behavioral therapy. They can be associated with mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder, but many people who experience them don’t meet the criteria for a mental health disorder. The thoughts may be triggered by stress or anxiety.

Women are being diagnosed with cancer at a higher rate than in the past—but death rates for women with the disease are down, says a report published July 8, 2021, in JNCI: The Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

People who suffer from chronic migraines could find relief by increasing their intake of the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, found in fatty fish like salmon, herring, sardines, mackerel, and trout.