Category: harvardhealth_news_UNDEFINED

As the immune system weakens with age, the risk of shingles increases. Many doctors recommend that people over 60 get the shingles vaccine.

Given the huge increase in the use of CT scans, concern about radiation exposure is warranted. Patients should try to keep track of their cumulative radiation exposure, and only have tests when necessary.

There are numerous possible causes of blood in the urine, including kidney disease, injury, or certain cancers, but regardless of the cause, prompt testing is required.

Though the visceral fat that lies behind the abdominal wall makes up only a small percentage of the body's fat, a growing body of research indicates that it is linked to a number of diseases and conditions.

I’m 79 and had chickenpox as a child. Should I get the shingles vaccine? What are the risks?

Diverticular disease develops due to a lack of dietary fiber, and is most common in the elderly, but many people never realize they have it because there are few symptoms.

A thoracic aortic aneurysm can be small and stable, or it can tear or rupture. People with certain genetic conditions, and those who have a relative who has had this condition, are at higher risk and should be tested.

Sleep-maintenance insomnia, the inability to remain asleep during the night, may be caused by health problems, depression, or stress. Maintaining good sleep habits and practicing relaxation techniques may lead to a better night’s sleep.

Postprandial hypotension, low blood pressure that occurs after eating, can cause dizziness, chest pain, nausea, or other issues, particularly in the elderly.

A blockage in one of the carotid arteries can be cleared either by endarterectomy or carotid angioplasty. The latter is less invasive, but some research is showing that this method may have a higher risk of complications.