Harvard Health Content API

While ovarian cancer is not always inherited, family history is the top risk factor for the disease, which is diagnosed in 20,000 American women and kills 13,000 annually. Symptoms, such as bloating, pelvic pain, bowel or bladder habit changes, and unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding, are often vague and subtle until the disease is advanced, making it hard to detect and cure. No standard screening test is available for ovarian cancer. Women with symptoms can ask for a pelvic ultrasound. Women with a family history should seek genetic counseling and testing.

A fever is the immune system’s response to an infection or invader. Most fevers drop after people take over-the-counter medications. People should call a doctor if their fever reaches 103° F and go to an emergency room if it reaches 105°.

Breast pain after menopause may be due to noncyclic mastalgia, which is not influenced by hormone fluctuations. Women should contact a doctor if pain persists or they develop breast swelling or redness, nipple discharge, or fever.

Oral health and overall health are strongly linked. Harmful bacteria and inflammation can trigger or worsen conditions throughout the body, including cardiovascular problems and diabetes. People should brush twice a day for two minutes and clean between teeth. Oral care product claims can be misleading. The American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance can help people choose oral care products by verifying product claims.

People exposed to long-term stress have a higher risk of dying from cancer, according to a 2022 study. The connection may be related to high levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

People who take between 3,800 and 9,800 steps daily may reduce their risk for dementia, and walking at a brisk pace could offer even more protection, according to a 2022 study.

Drinking about one cup of prune juice daily may help relieve chronic constipation, according to a 2022 study.

It’s normal to accumulate and release gas; in fact, the average person releases two liters of gas per day. Certain foods can increase gas production since they take longer to digest.

Short-term (acute) pain occurs for various reasons, like a sports or exercise injury, a broken bone, a medical procedure, or a household accident. Many times the pain goes away or diminishes on its own or with a combination of rest and over-the-counter remedies. But if ignored, the pain may progress to longer and potentially more serious chronic pain that requires stronger medication, physical therapy, and other treatments.

As with a financial portfolio, older adults should routinely review their wellness portfolio to ensure their health investments meet their short-and long-term goals. Working with their doctor, personal trainer, and nutritionist, they can identify areas that require changes and implement new strategies. Older men often don’t make investments in strength training, balance, and their mental health, but should.