health-letter
Small changes to the setting of an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) can reduce inappropriate shocks and the risk of death. People with ICDs are advised to check with their doctors to find out if they need adjustments to their ICDs.
Strengthening the body’s core muscles reduces strain on the back and helps relieve or prevent pain. Strenuous core exercises can lead to serious injury for older people. Gentle stretches and exercises can be just as effective at core strengthening.
It appears that migraine headaches with aura may signal an increased risk of heart attacks and stroke. However, migraines will not hurt thinking skills.
Soda appears to be associated with the progression of knee osteoarthritis in men. People who have knee osteoarthritis are advised to reduce soda intake to less than five drinks per week.
It appears that eating one egg a day is not associated with an increased risk of heart disease or stroke. Although eggs are high in cholesterol, researchers say the effects of dietary cholesterol on blood cholesterol levels are small.
Venous leg ulcers are the final stage in the progression of venous disease. Treatment involves compressing the swelling out of the leg using either bandages or compression stockings with dressings on top of the broken skin.
Improved prevention efforts and protective behaviors (like not smoking) have reduced eye health problems faced by older adults by 23% since 1984.
Blood sugar on the high end of the normal range may be linked to brain shrinkage in areas associated with memory and thinking. It’s not clear if blood sugar causes the problem.
Blepharoplasty removes drooping excess skin and fat around the eye that comes with aging. The surgery is meant to change a person’s appearance to create a more youthful look or to improve a person’s vision.
I’m starting to check my blood pressure at home. When during the day should I do it?