Outsmarting perimenopause

Women receive less information about perimenopause compared with the earlier milestones of puberty and pregnancy. Some women deal with an array of symptoms they don’t connect to perimenopause and aren’t aware that lifestyle changes can offset them. The menopause transition often involves weight gain from both shifting hormones and aging. Regular exercise and strength training can mitigate weight gain. Healthy eating habits and sounder sleep can also offset perimenopausal symptoms.

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Getting the right diagnosis

Nearly one in five hospitalized adults is harmed or dies each year due to a diagnostic error. Diagnostic errors include a delay in diagnosis, a wrong diagnosis, or unclear communication about a diagnosis. Tricky-to-diagnose conditions include pneumonia, heart attack, stroke, sepsis, blood clots, and lung cancer. Women, minorities, and older adults may be more vulnerable to diagnostic mistakes. People can lower their risks of diagnostic errors by telling the doctor about their medications, taking a trusted companion to appointments, and seeking second opinions in cases of doubt.

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When are nosebleeds a problem?

Nosebleeds are common, and dry air is the most prevalent cause. Other triggers include allergies, blood-thinning medications, or a deviated septum. People with frequent, heavy nosebleeds may need evaluation for a more serious underlying condition.

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Can nail polish harm my nails?

Wearing nail polish does not harm nails. However, doing so for long periods can dry out the surface, prompting chalky, white patches to form. Removing nail polish with acetone-based products can also dry out the nails and surrounding skin.

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Is your walking up to speed?

Walking is one of the best ways for older adults to get the recommended 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week. But to ensure people get the most from their walking workouts, they need to focus on intensity. One way to do this is with target heart rate. A typical target heart rate for moderate-intensity exercise is between 65% and 75% of a person’s calculated maximum heart rate. Improving walking form and doing interval workouts can help increase speed and thus intensity.

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