Recovering from addiction during a time of uncertainty and social distancing
Because the very nature of recovery support involves face-to-face interaction, whether in support group meetings or dispensing medication, it is at odds with the need for social distancing during the COVID-19 crisis, creating barriers to receiving support and maintaining recovery.
EVALI: New information on vaping-induced lung injury
The surge in lung injuries and deaths related to the use of vaping products has raised many questions, along with concerns about potential long-term health issues caused by various ingredients and the heating process.
How does cardiovascular disease increase the risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19?
Initial investigation into COVID-19 focused on its respiratory effects, but a more recent report describes serious cardiovascular complications in people with pre-existing heart disease. How does this underlying condition increase risk for these people?
Recognizing and treating depression may help improve heart health
Depression often occurs alongside cardiovascular disease, or may already exist and worsens with it, but frequently the symptoms go unrecognized. The American College of Cardiology recommends screening patients to identify symptoms of depression.
Boosting Your Energy
COVID-19: If you’re older and have chronic health problems, read this
Older people who have a chronic medical condition are at increased risk for severe disease and death if they contract COVID-19. Just how old is “older,” what constitutes chronic disease, and how can you lower risks?
Older adults and medical marijuana: Reduced stigma and increased use
Cannabis use among older adults has been steadily increasing, due to lessening stigma and increased interest in using medical marijuana. But there are specific concerns for older people, so anyone considering this option should have a conversation with their doctor weighing the benefits and risks.
Doctors’ pain pill prescribing habits at odds with current guidelines
Doctors had been overprescribing opioids for chronic musculoskeletal pain, according to a December 2019 study in TheJournal of Pain.
Alcohol-related deaths on the rise
The number of alcohol-related deaths in the United States doubled between 1999 and 2017, a change that included an 85% increase in alcohol-related medical emergencies and deaths especially among women.