At the Heart of a Stent

A coronary stent is a hollow tube-shaped device that is surgically inserted into a blood vessel to keep it open.

coronary stent may be used to treat the following conditions:

• Coronary heart disease.
  
• Peripheral artery disease.
• Renal artery stenosis, for a narrowing of the artery that provides blood to the kidneys.
• Carotid artery disease.
• Abdominal aortic aneurysm, for a bulging of the aorta near the abdomen.

Signs That You May Have Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a form of inflammatory bowel disease that affects the large intestine and rectum.

symptoms of ulcerative colitis:

• Pain in the abdomen, which often subsides after a bowel movement.
• Unusual gurgling sounds in the abdomen.
• Diarrhea and fever.
• Losing weight.
• Frequent feeling like you need to have a bowel movement.
• Vomiting and nausea.
• Pain in the joints.
• Gastrointestinal bleeding.

Help Control Constipation

Constipation occurs when it becomes difficult or painful to have regular bowel movements. What's "regular" varies by person, however.

Some people have three bowel movements per day, while others have three movements per week.

Here are the academy's suggestions for staying regular:

• When you feel the need to have a bowel movement, don't put it off.
• Schedule time each day to have a bowel movement, such as after a meal.
• Boost your fiber intake.
• Drink plenty of water -- aim for eight glasses each day.
• Don't rely on laxatives, as taking them too frequently can worsen constipation.
• Get regular exercise.
• Avoid sugary and high-fat foods that can contribute to constipation.

Help Prevent Childhood Migraines

Adults aren't the only ones affected by the often disabling pain of a migraine. Many children and teens also are prone to the intense pounding, occasional nausea and "aura" that warns some migraine sufferers.
While there's no sure way to prevent a migraine.
There are certain things that your child can do that may help:

• Eat regularly and don't skip any meals.
• Maintain a regular sleep schedule.
• Get frequent and consistent exercise.
• Recognize what triggers migraines (examples may include stress or overexertion) and try to avoid those triggers.
• Identify any foods that may trigger a migraine. Common examples are chocolate, caffeine, cheese and processed meats.
• Talk to your child's pediatrician about medication if migraines can't be controlled by other methods.

Understanding Gum Disease

Your risk of developing gum (periodontal) disease increases as you age. Over time, your gums may begin to detach from your teeth.
Left untreated, the supporting bone may dissolve, and when this happens, your teeth may become loose and fall out.
So if you notice that your gums are swollen, red, tender or bleed easily, or that your teeth feel loose, see your dentist as soon as possible. Meanwhile, don't forget to floss and brush your teeth after every meal using a fluoride toothpaste.

Eat Your Fruits and Veggies

Since childhood, lots of people have heard the parental plea to eat their fruits and vegetables.

For Disease Control and Prevention offers this insight on why eating fruits and veggies is so important:
Eating lots of fruits and vegetables can help prevent chronic diseases, including cancer, research indicates.
Most fruits and vegetables offer great nutritional benefit while contributing little to your daily fat and calorie intake.
At the same time, they help you stay full, helping you to maintain a healthy body weight and prevent excessive weight gain.
Fruits and vegetables are rich in the minerals, vitamins and fiber your body needs.

Help Prevent Medical Errors

As many as 98,000 people die every year because of medical errors, an Institute of Medicine report estimates, but there are steps you can take to protect your health.
Suggestions:
Give your doctors as much information as you can about the medications, supplements and herbs you are taking.
Tell your doctors about any known allergies or reactions you have to medications.
Keep your doctors informed about your health. Don't assume they already know this.
Make sure you are fully informed about any medicine your doctor prescribes, including what it's for, instructions for taking it, safety and side effects.
If your doctor writes a prescription, make sure you can read what's written. Illegible prescriptions may cause problems at the pharmacy.

Keep Mold Out of Your Home

Mold exposure can lead to respiratory, eye and skin irritation, or much more serious reactions.
Suggestions to minimize mold growth in your home:
Make sure indoor humidity levels are kept between 40 percent and 60 percent.
During very humid weather, run the air conditioner, a dehumidifier or both.
Ensure that your home is well-ventilated, including exhaust fans where needed.
Before painting a room, add a mold-inhibiting agent to the paint.
Scrub bathrooms regularly with cleaning products designed to kill mold.
Avoid carpet in moist areas, such as in bathrooms and the basement.
Promptly get rid of any carpets or upholstered items that have been soaked.

Help Prevent Yeast Infections

While yeast infections usually can be treated easily with medication, there are steps you can take to prevent them altogether.
These suggestions to reduce your risk of a yeast infection:
Avoid tight-fitting pants and underwear in favor of loose-fitting clothes. Always choose natural materials, instead of synthetic.
Use cotton underwear. And avoid wearing pantyhose or leotards every single day.
After you shower, make sure the genitals are completely dry. Consider using a hair dryer on a low, cool setting.
After using the toilet, always wipe from front to back.
If you're wearing wet clothing, change as soon as possible.
Avoid douching, feminine hygiene sprays, fragranced and colored toilet paper, or deodorant tampons and pads.

When Dementia Is Treatable

While dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease or brain damage from stroke are thought to be irreversible, some forms of memory loss may respond to treatment.
The list of treatable causes of dementia:
Brain tumor.
Infection.
Low levels of vitamin B12.
A condition called normal pressure hydrocephalus, when a build-up of fluid presses on the brain.
Certain thyroid problems.

Eating Fish and Shellfish

Mercury is an element found in the environment, from natural sources and as a byproduct of man-made pollution.
Mercury seeps into the soil and water, contaminating some of the foods people eat.
Almost all types of shellfish and fish contain some mercury. Larger predator fish -- such as shark, king mackerel, tilefish and swordfish -- can harbor higher levels.
Pregnant women, women who are nursing, young children and women who might become pregnant should avoid consuming large amounts of mercury, which can harm the developing nervous systems of unborn and young children.

Taking a Childbirth Class

With all of necessary tasks to prepare for a new baby, you might wonder about the merits of going back to school.
These potential benefits from taking a childbirth class:
Learn about baby's development and a healthy pregnancy.
Learn about warning signs of a potential problem.
Learn how to help make pregnancy, labor and delivery as healthy and comfortable as possible.
Learn techniques to help you breathe and relax.
Learn how to create a birth plan.
Learn signs that you're in labor.
Learn your pain relief options during labor and birth.
Learn how your partner or birth coach can help.

Get Enough Dietary Protein

Protein helps your body replace damaged cells and make new ones. Women who are pregnant, children and teens should be especially careful to get enough protein.
Meat is a good source of protein, but because it's often high in cholesterol it shouldn't be relied on as the only protein source, the agency states. Fish, poultry, eggs, nuts, whole grains, soybeans, peas and dairy products are also fine sources of protein.
Most adults need between two and three servings of protein a day, but it can vary based on your health needs and age. One serving of protein is about two or three ounces (picture a deck of playing cards to estimate size) of cooked meat, chicken or fish. One-half cup of cooked dried beans, an egg, an ounce of cheese or about two tablespoons of peanut butter will also meet a serving of protein, the agency notes

Thwarting Head Lice

Head lice are tiny, parasitic bugs that live in the hair and scalp, and are most common in school-aged children.Lice typically are not a serious problem, but they can cause uncomfortable itching, irritated skin, and may lead to infection.

Signs that your child may have head lice include constant scratching of the head, or tiny red bumps seen on the shoulders, neck and scalp. Lice eggs, called nits, will look like little dots on the hair that may be white or clear in color.

Lice are easily spread from person to person, so do what you can to keep lice from spreading.

Don't allow someone with lice to share anything used on the hair -- no hats, hairbrushes, combs, barrettes or hair elastics. Pillows and towels also should not be shared with someone who has lice.

Keep Your Feet Safe in Flip-Flops

Flip-flops may feel great to wear during summer, but your feet might not agree. Many flip-flops offer no or little protection for the feet, and can lead to pain or injury.

Suggestions to help protect your feet while wearing flip-flops:

• Invest in better quality flip-flops, made of a soft leather.
• Try to bend the flip-flop gently. While it should give at the ball of the foot, never purchase any flip-flop that completely bends in half.
• Opt for flip-flops instead of walking barefoot in areas such as public pools, beaches, locker rooms and hotel rooms.
• Make sure the flip-flops fit, and your feet don't extend beyond the edge.
• Protect your feet with a sturdier shoe (never a flip-flop) when playing sports, doing a lot of walking, or working in the yard.
• Throw out old, worn flip-flops.
• Take care of any sores or irritated skin between the toes.

Choosing Baby's Playpen

A playpen can help parents get things done with the knowledge that baby can't wander off. But it's no substitute for parental oversight.

Here are suggestions to help you find a safe playpen :

• If you choose a playpen with mesh sides, protect baby's fingers by making sure the holes are small -- 1/4 of an inch or less. The mesh must also be sturdy and properly attached to the device's edges.
• The sides of the playpen must extend at least 20 inches above the floor.
• The rails on each side should be well-padded to protect baby from a head injury.
• Make sure that your infant can't reach any of the playpen's locks.
• All hinges and supports should be enforced and protected.
• If acquiring a used playpen, make sure its floor is in good shape, with no tears or worn spots.

Taking a Trip When You Have Diabetes

Diabetes doesn't have to keep you from traveling, but you still need some extra preparation before you begin your trip.

Suggestions to help you plan before you leave:

• Make sure your diabetes is well-controlled. Before you leave for a long trip, a visit with your doctor to make sure you're healthy, and to get the immunizations you need, is a good idea.
• Pack extra medication, syringes and other supplies.
• Take a letter from your doctor that describes exactly what supplies you need, a list of your medications, and any allergies you have.
• Always wear your bracelet or necklace that identifies you as having diabetes.
• If traveling to a foreign country, learn how to say key phrases in the native tongue, such as "I have diabetes" and how to ask for sugar or orange juice.

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Reasons for Adenoid Removal

Adenoids are glands that are found between the airway and the back of the throat. When the adenoids are removed, the procedure is called adenoidectomy.

Adenoidectomy is most often performed on children, and rarely on adults.

Reasons for why a child might need an adenoidectomy:

• Difficulty breathing through the nose because of enlarged adenoids.
• Frequent snoring.
• Sleep apnea.
• Recurrent ear infections that affect attendance at school or occur five times or more per year.
• Frequent tonsillitis infections.

Kicking the Habit

Former smokers may tell you that quitting was one of the hardest things they've ever done. The physical and psychological withdrawal can be intense.

Tips to help you handle the cravings:

• Drink lots of liquids, especially water.
• Avoid sugar and fatty foods, and don't skip meals.
• Exercise regularly and moderately.
• Get more sleep.
• Take deep breaths when cravings hit.
• Change your habits. For example, eat breakfast in a different place, or take a different route to work.
• Do something to reduce your stress. Take a hot bath, read a book, or exercise.

Take Care of Your Feet

If you hurt your feet, it may be difficult to exercise, to take care of responsibilities at home, and to even get around.

Suggestions to help keep your feet healthy and pain free:

• Pay attention to foot pain, and see a doctor if your feet bother you at all.
• Look for any abnormalities on your feet or toenails.
• Keep feet and toes clean and dry, and toenails trimmed straight across.
• Choose sturdy, comfortable shoes that fit well.
• Avoid walking around in bare feet.
• Change your shoes every day.
• If you are diabetic, you should get an annual foot exam.

Suggestions for Better Sleep

If you're struggling to get a good night's sleep, your sleep environment and bedtime habits may need changing.

Suggestions that may help you sleep better:

• Go to bed and try to wake at the same time each day.
• Prepare for bed with a relaxing routine, such as taking a bath or reading.
• Make sure your bedroom is quiet and dark.
• Use a firm but comfortable mattress, and lots of plush pillows.
• Never perform work-related duties in your bedroom.
• Don't eat for at least two hours before you go to bed.
• Exercise each day, but never just before bedtime.
• Skip caffeine, alcohol and nicotine in the hours before bedtime.

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Smoking and the Musculoskeletal System

Damage to the lungs is one of the first things people think about when it comes to the health detriments of smoking. But smoking can affect much of your body, right down to your bones and muscles.

Surgeons say smoking can have the following effects on the musculoskeletal system:

• Increases risk of osteoporosis.
• Reduces bone density.
• Reduces blood supply to bones, causes bone cells to form more slowly, and impairs calcium absorption.
• Reduces the effectiveness of estrogen therapy.
• Raises your risk of hip fracture.
• Raises your risk of rotator cuff injuries.
• May contribute to low back pain and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Extends healing time after bone fractures.

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Too Much Exercise Isn't Good Either

Getting regular exercise is great for your body and can help relieve stress. But as with any beneficial activity, you can overdo it.

Warning signs of over-exercise:

• Difficulty exercising to your normal level.
• Feeling uncoordinated.
• Taking longer than usual to recover.
• Faster heart rate (in the morning) and blood pressure levels at rest.
• Lack of appetite.
• Headache and muscle aches.
• Digestive or stomach problems.
• More frequent illness, bone injuries or muscular injuries.
• Problems sleeping.

Build Strong Bones

Osteoporosis is a condition in which bones become weak, brittle and may break easily.

Suggestions to help prevent osteoporosis:

• Get plenty of calcium by eating or drinking dairy products, or by taking calcium supplements.
• Get enough vitamin D, through exposure to sunlight (use sunscreen), supplements or milk products.
• Eat a diet rich in vitamins and protein.
• Get enough weight-bearing exercise (where your body works against gravity). Examples include lifting weights or climbing stairs.
• Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol use.
• Take medication to specifically treat or help prevent bone loss.

When Seniors Have Trouble Sleeping

Sleep disturbances -- including trouble getting to sleep or waking frequently throughout the night -- are common in elderly people.

Common reasons for sleep problems in older people:

• Increased need to urinate.
• Pain, particularly from arthritis.
• Depression.
• Neurological problems.
• Alzheimer's disease.
• Side effects of taking certain medications.
• Alcohol use.
• Not getting enough exercise.
• Consuming too much caffeine.

Easing Back Pain During Pregnancy

While you're pregnant, all that extra weight can lead to significant back pain.

Suggestions to help prevent or relieve that pain in your back:

• Avoid completely flat or high-heeled shoes; something in between with a low heel and supportive arch is best.
• Don't lift heavy objects by yourself.
• If you have to be on your feet for a long time, prop up one foot on a step stool or stair.
• Sleep on a firm mattress or place a board between the mattress and box spring.
• Bend at your knees rather than at the waist.
• Place a small pillow behind your lower back when sitting in a chair, or use a chair with a lot of back support.
• Sleep on your side, and place pillows between your legs.
• Gently massage your lower back, or apply a heating pad or ice pack.

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Pack a First-Aid Kit When Traveling

You don't want a minor injury or medical problem to derail your travel plans. So be sure to make room for a first-aid kit with some basic essentials, especially if you're traveling internationally.

This list of items to take with you on your next trip:

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Antihistamine, motion sickness, cold and cough, and anti-diarrhea medications.
• Bandages in different shapes and sizes, as well as gauze pads, tape and an elastic bandage.
• Tweezers, scissors and safety pins.
• Antibiotic ointment, hydrogen peroxide, hydrocortisone cream and bug spray.
• A pair of rubber gloves and a thermometer.
• A chemical cold pack for burns or sprains.
• A bottle of sunscreen.

How To Get Fit After Baby is Born

While new moms are focused on taking care of their newborns, many are anxious to drop the extra pounds they gained during pregnancy.

Before you begin or resume an exercise program, speak with your doctor.

Here are suggestions to help get you started exercising after delivery:

• Begin exercising at a slow pace, especially if you didn't exercise much during your pregnancy.
• Always start your workouts with a warm up and end with a cool-down period.
• Work out in a supportive sports bra.
• Start out with regular power walks. You can take baby with you in a stroller.
• Work your way up from walking to more difficult exercises.
• Consider joining an exercise class that's designed for new moms.
• Look for exercise programs at a local gym or fitness center, community center or college.

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Health Tip: Pain in the Pelvis

Pelvic pain is common in women, in varying degrees of severity and at different times. Determining whether it indicates something harmless or serious should always be left to a physician.

Gynecologists says here are common causes of pelvic pain in women:

• An infection somewhere in the pelvic region, including pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Cysts on the ovaries, which can occur during monthly ovulation.
• Fibroids on the uterus.
• An ectopic pregnancy, where a fertilized egg grows somewhere other than the uterus, often in a fallopian tube.
• Menstrual pain, which can be severe.
• Ovulation.
• Endometriosis or adenomyosis.
• Gastrointestinal, urologic or musculoskeletal disorders.
• Psychological disorders, including depression.

Health Tip: Getting Older and Weakened Immunity

As you age, your body often isn't able to protect you against disease as effectively as when you were younger.

These changes to the immune system that may occur as part of the aging process:

• Decreased ability to protect against infection.
• Decreased effectiveness and duration of vaccinations.
• Increased risk of developing an autoimmune disease.
• Decreased ability to heal from wounds and other injuries.
• Decreased ability to detect and correct cell defects, which could raise the risk of certain cancers.

Health Tip: Use Household Chemicals Safely

Common chemicals stored throughout the home could pose health risks if not stored properly and used correctly.

Safety suggestions when working with household chemicals:

• When using all-purpose cleaners in the kitchen or bathroom, always wear gloves, and open a window or turn on a fan to minimize inhalation of fumes.
• Be careful to avoid letting bleach touch your skin or splash in your eyes. Also, avoid breathing in the fumes.
• Never mix bleach with any other cleaner, especially anything that contains ammonia.
• When using an oven-cleaning product, fully protect yourself with goggles, gloves and long sleeves. Look for cleaners without lye, and make sure the area is well-ventilated.
• Antibacterial cleaning products can burn the skin, so make sure you wear gloves.

Health Tip: Why Baby Won't Breast-Feed

Sometimes, babies may stop wanting to breast-feed for a short period, for a variety of reasons. This is not necessarily an indication that your baby no longer needs to breast-feed.

List of possible reasons why your baby may take a break from breast-feeding for a few days:

• New foods or other dietary changes may make your milk taste different.
• Your baby is teething, and has sore gums that make feeding painful.
• You are stressed, and your baby notices.
• You've changed your breast-feeding routine.
• You reacted loudly to an accidental bite, frightening your baby.
• You've changed your perfume or deodorant, and your baby notices the different smell.
• Your baby may have an ear infection, stuffy nose or other condition that makes breast-feeding painful or uncomfortable.

Health Tip: Caring for Mouth Sores From Cancer Treatment

Chemotherapy or radiation treatment for cancer can lead to small, painful mouth sores.

Suggestions to help ease the pain and make it easier to eat:

• Since brushing teeth can be painful, switch to a softer brush. And soften it with hot water before you brush.
• Use a gentle toothpaste that doesn't contain hydrogen peroxide.
• Rinse your mouth before and after you eat with a solution of baking soda, salt and water. Don't use commercial mouthwashes, which may irritate the sores.
• Moisturize your lips with lotion or balm.
• Swab the sores with Maalox or Milk of Magnesia -- if your doctor recommends it.
• Drink beverages and liquid foods with a straw.
• Stick to foods that are soft, moist and cold.

Health Tip: Try Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques may help you relax, beat stress, and can even help ease insomnia.

Following suggestions for performing relaxation techniques:

• In a technique called progressive relaxation, lie down with your eyes closed, and gradually feel and relax each part of your body from your feet to your head. Take time to consciously relax each part of your body.
• Tense your toes, then release and relax them. Lying on your back with eyes closed, point your toes toward your head, hold for 10 seconds, relax and repeat.
• Breathe deeply, lying on your back and relaxing your body. Take a slow breath in through your nose. Fill your lungs with air, hold, and slowly release your breath.
• Guided imagery can help you relax by visualizing a relaxing place. Lying on your back with eyes closed, picture yourself in one of your favorite places, where you feel happy and relaxed.
• The quiet ears technique has you lie on your back with eyes closed, hands relaxed behind your head. Gently place your thumbs inside your ears until you hear a rushing noise. Listen for about 15 minutes, then take your thumbs out of your ears and relax.

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Health Tip: Safe Use of Contact Lenses

It can be difficult to see that cosmetics and contact lenses may not mix, especially if the cosmetics are misapplied.

Suggestions for contact lens wearers who use makeup:

• Always wash your hands before putting contact lenses in or taking them out.
• Keep cosmetic brushes and other tools clean.
• Invest in hypoallergenic cosmetics without fragrance, sparkle, glitter or anything else that may contain irritants such as crushed oyster shell or tinsel.
• Put lenses in first, then put on your cosmetics.
• Never wear someone else's makeup, or let anyone else borrow yours.
• Never re-use an old mascara applicator.
• Be careful to keep creams and powders out of your eyes.
• Skip makeup when your eyes are irritated, infected, swollen or red.

Health Tip: Help Keep Anxiety Under Control

Everyone is anxious now and then, but for some people, anxiety can completely interfere with their daily lives.

These suggestions to help control anxiety and stay calmer:

• Try to figure out what's causing your anxiety.
• Create a diary or journal detailing your anxious thoughts, and what you think triggers them.
• Talk to a friend, therapist or family member about what's concerning you.
• Get plenty of sleep and frequent exercise.
• Stick to a healthy diet, avoiding caffeine, alcohol, nicotine and illicit drugs.
• Make time for fun.
• Try relaxation techniques.

Health Tip: Avoid Animal Bites

Even the most friendly of cats and dogs can inadvertently bite you or a loved one, which could lead to an infection.

Suggestions to help prevent animal bites:

• Small children should never be left unattended with any animal.
• If you see animals fighting, avoid trying to separate them.
• Don't approach or touch animals that appear sick, or any animals with which you're not familiar.
• Never touch or bother an animal that is eating.
• Always keep your pets on a leash when away from home.
• Choose your family pets wisely, and make sure to keep their vaccinations current.

Health Tip: The Signs of Hunger

When you have a desire to eat, are you really hungry? Other factors can make you feel like you want to eat, including feeling sad or lonely, the time of day, craving certain foods, or being thirsty.

List of actual hunger signs:

• Your stomach growls or rumbles.
• You feel hunger pangs in your stomach.
• You have a slight headache, or difficulty concentrating.
• You feel grumpy or irritable.

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Health Tip: Getting Back to Sleep

After you wake up during the night, do you generally go right back to sleep? If not,
Some suggestions:
Lie in bed for about 15 or 20 minutes. Beyond that, you're probably not going to have an easy time getting back to sleep. They say you should get out of bed.

Read a book or a magazine, soak in a warm bath or do something else relaxing. You should not do anything that would tend to make you even more awake, such as office work, cleaning or watching TV.

After about 20 minutes of your relaxing activity, head back to bed, advises the center. Getting back to sleep should now be a lot easier.

Health Tip: Prevent Bleeding Gums

Bleeding gums can occur because teeth haven't been properly brushed and flossed, or as a side effect of conditions including leukemia, scurvy or vitamin K deficiency.

Suggestions to help keep gums healthy:

• Don't smoke or use other forms of tobacco.
• Take vitamin supplements, as recommended by your doctor.
• Don't take aspirin, unless your doctor advises otherwise.
• If medication is causing your gums to bleed, ask your doctor about possible alternatives.
• Massage your gums gently with an oral irrigation tool. Set the device on low.
• Make sure dentures fit properly, and talk to your dentist if they cause bleeding or soreness.
• If your gums do bleed, wet a gauze pad with ice water and hold it to the affected area.

Health Tip: Exercise for Bone Health

As you age, your bones tend to lose density, become weaker and are more likely to fracture. Regular exercise is one of the best ways to help keep bones strong.

Besides recommending that you get enough bone-building vitamin D and calcium in your diet.

Recommendations:

• Walking and jogging.
• Hiking.
• Cross-country skiing.
• Stair-climbing machines, or climbing stationary stairs.
• Dancing and jumping rope.
• Sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball, field hockey and softball.

Health Tip: Minor Reaction to Childhood Immunizations

When children have a severe reaction to an immunization -- with symptoms such as high fever, breathing problems, continuous crying for several hours, weakness, or red streaks near the injection site -- it requires immediate medical attention.

Suggestions for much milder post-injection discomfort:

• For soreness at or near the injection site, apply a cool, damp cloth or an ice pack.
• Administer an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen. Do not give the child aspirin.
• For minor cases of hives, apply hydrocortisone cream.
• Any fever that develops should not last more than three days. Administer acetaminophen and lots of fluids. If the fever lasts more than three days, seek medical attention at once.
• Your child may be cranky or fussy after the immunization, and may sleep a lot. If these symptoms don't improve after three days, call your doctor.

Health Tip: If You Have Bad Breath

Everyone's had a bout with bad breath, but when it becomes chronic, it's time to see your dentist.
Some sources of bad breath include: what you eat; not brushing and flossing daily; tobacco products; or a medical disorder such as a respiratory tract infection, sinusitis, postnasal drip, bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver or kidney ailment.

Tip:

You should brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque, remembering to brush your tongue, too. Once a day, use floss to clean between teeth.

If you must constantly use a breath freshener to hide unpleasant mouth odor, see your dentist.

Tip: Nutrition for Athletic Performance

If you've been training for an athletic event -- a big game, a marathon or other intense workout -- it's important to eat the right foods to support your body when it needs proper nutrition most.

Sports nutrition suggestions:

• Make sure that you eat three to four hours before your event.
• Prepare your body with a high-carbohydrate meal.
• Stick to foods that are easy for your body to digest; stay away from fried foods.
• Steer clear of high-sugar foods and drinks for at least an hour before your event.
• Make sure you drink plenty of fluids. One-to-two hours before, drink 20 ounces of water; 15-to-30 minutes before, drink another 10 to 15 ounces. If possible, drink 3 to 6 ounces every 10 to 20 minutes during the event.

Clogged Ears On a Plane?

Changes in altitude, such as those you experience when flying, can cause an uncomfortable "clogged" feeling in your ears.
If you try to relieve the pressure by blowing your nose too hard, you could perforate the eardrum or force bacteria into the deeper parts of the ear.

Suggestions to help you safely relieve pressure in the ears when flying:

• About an hour before your flight is scheduled to leave, take a decongestant.
• Try yawning to gently relieve pressure as altitude changes.
• Keep swallowing to help unclog ears.
• Chew a piece of gum while the plane ascends and descends.
• If your ears still feel clogged, inhale, hold your nose, and very gently exhale with your mouth closed until you feel relief. Be very careful not to do this with too much force.

If You've Got GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when stomach contents back up into the esophagus, often causing a feeling of heartburn.

Suggestions to help tame GERD symptoms:

• Lose weight. Most people are helped "substantially" when they lose significant weight, the society says.
• Wear loose clothing.
• Eat meals at least several hours before bed time, giving the stomach some time to empty.
• Keep the head of the bed about 6 inches to 8 inches higher than the foot of the bed.
• Steer clear of smoking, high-fat foods, spicy foods, caffeine, chocolate and peppermint.
• Talk to your doctor about medications to help control GERD. And while on the subject of medications, ask your doctor if anything you're taking could actually be making your symptoms worse.

Dizziness During Pregnancy

Many women feel dizzy during pregnancy, a condition caused by hormones that help increase blood flow to the baby, but may restrict blood flow to you.

Suggestions to help relieve dizziness during pregnancy:

• Try not to stand up for long periods. When you do have to stand, move your feet frequently to help maintain your circulation.
• When you start to stand up, do so slowly.
• Keep a cool body temperature. Avoid very hot baths or showers.
• Don't go too long without eating.
• Make sure clothing is loose and not so tight that it can reduce blood circulation.
• Ask your doctor about other factors that could cause dizziness. In some women, lying on their back may impede blood flow as the weight of the fetus presses on certain blood vessels.

Smoking and Diabetes

Smoking is harmful for everyone, but it can be particularly dangerous for diabetics, who are already at risk of complications such as cardiovascular disease.
If you're a diabetic who has smoked, no matter how long, you can improve your health by quitting. This list of potential dangers for diabetics who smoke:

• Smoking decreases oxygen in the tissues, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
• Smoking increases cholesterol and blood pressure, which raises your risk of heart attack
• Smoking constricts and damages blood vessels, which can make foot ulcers worse.
• Smoking increases your risk of damage to the nerves and kidneys.
• Smoking increases your risk of colds and other respiratory illnesses.
• Smoking increases blood sugar levels.
• Smoking triples your risk of death from cardiovascular disease, compared to diabetics who don't smoke.

Save Your Back at Work

After a long day at work, your back may be chock full of aches and pains from standing on your feet or sitting at a desk.
Suggestions to help alleviate back pain while you're at work:

• Pay attention to your posture, whether you're standing or sitting. Make sure your ears, shoulders and hips all line up.
• Avoid standing for long periods. If you must stand, use a stool and alternate resting each foot on it.
• Wear comfortable, cushioned shoes without heels if you walk a lot.
• Choose a straight-backed, adjustable chair with armrests and a swivel seat for your desk chair.
• Prop your feet up below your desk, so your knees are elevated above your hips.
• Roll up a towel or place a pillow at your lower back while sitting at your desk.

Triggers for PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a severe anxiety condition that can follow a life-threatening or very frightening experience.

These people are at greater risk of developing PTSD:

• People who are victims of rape, other physical assault or terrorism.
• People who have been in a car accident, natural disaster, flood or fire.
• People who have participated in war or other combat.
• People who have lost a family member or other loved one.
• People who have been diagnosed with a fatal disease.
• People who are rescue workers, such as firefighters or police officers.

Taking ADHD Medications

Medications prescribed to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may effectively manage symptoms, but they can also cause a number of side effects.

Suggestions to minimize side effects caused by ADHD drugs:

• Take only the minimal dose necessary to control your symptoms. Speak with your doctor about determining the right dose for you.
• If you have stomach upset, take your ADHD meds with food.
• As long as your doctor says it's OK, consider the weekend "drug-free days" when you can skip your medication.
• If ADHD meds cause undesired weight loss, add healthy snacks to the day's menu.

Sit Properly at the Computer

Stretching your neck and working your wrists at a computer for hours at a time can strain much of the body.
Ttese suggestions may to help reduce computer pain and discomfort:

• Sit up straight, with your ears lined up with the top of your shoulders, and your shoulders lined up with the hips.
• Relax your upper arms, and hold them close to your body. Keep your hands and wrists straight in front of your arms.
• Keep your hands and fingers relaxed when typing or clicking on the mouse.
• Take regular breaks and relax your hands and fingers.
• Give your eyes a rest and look away from the computer every so often. Also, try to position your screen to reflect the least glare.
• Place your computer monitor about an arm's length in front of you, and right at eye level so you don't have to look up or down to view the monitor.

Tip: Problems With a Picky Eater?

If your child is a picky eater and refuses to eat or try new foods, then try these suggestions:

• Set an example by eating various healthy foods yourself.
• Fix foods that are attractive. Decorate your child's plate with bright, colorful foods with different consistencies.
• If your child isn't hungry, don't force the issue. When children are hungry enough, they will eat.
• Stay away from sugary treats. Instead, offer fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Make healthy eating a tradition. Start early by offering a variety of baby foods when the child is as young as 6 months.

Preventing Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is a contagious fungal infection that can easily be picked up in public places where people are barefoot, such as gyms, pools and spas. Cracking and itchy feet are common symptoms.

Suggestions to prevent athlete's foot:

• Completely dry your feet when you get out of the bath, shower or swimming pool.
• If you're at a public shower or pool, don't walk around barefoot.
• Choose shoes made of natural materials. Also look for shoes that allow the feet to breathe.
• Change socks at least once a day.
• Sprinkle anti-fungal powder in your shoes or socks if you are prone to getting athlete's foot.

Managing Neck Pain

If you've sustained a minor injury to your neck, there are things you can do to get the pain under control.

• Use an over-the-counter pain reliever such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Apply an ice pack for the first two or three days, followed by a few days of applying heat, such as by taking a hot shower or using a heating pad.
• Gently exercise and stretch the neck, with up-and-down and side-to-side motions.
• Have someone lightly rub or massage your neck.
• Use a neck pillow or no pillow at all when you sleep. A firm mattress will help, too.

Traumatic Events May Affect Sleep

If you've been traumatized by an act of violence, a car accident, or the death of a loved one, the repercussions can affect your daily life, including your sleep.
Traumatic event can cause sleep disturbances these suggestions may help you to sleep better:

• Problems falling asleep can result from anxiety, recurring thoughts of the trauma, feeling that you "can't let your guard down," and flashbacks.
• Nightfall and darkness may increase anxiety.
• Nightmares may be common, causing you to awaken and making it difficult to fall asleep again.
• To sleep better, pick a spot where you feel safe and comfortable. It doesn't necessarily have to be your bedroom.
• Don't eat or drink much right before bedtime.
• Take time to relax before bed. Let go of your anxieties, listen to music, read, or take a bath to help you feel calm and relaxed.

Be Wary of Fad Diets

If you're looking to help kick start your weight loss program, it's important to carefully research a diet plan before you commit to one.

Look for these warning signs of an unhealthy fad diet:

• A diet that promises very fast weight loss -- anything more than a pound or two per week.
• A diet that promises weight loss without changing diet habits or engaging in an exercise program.
• A diet that is promoted by "scientific" testimonials and pictures of "before" and "after" success stories.
• A diet that involves expensive seminars, medications, or pre-made meals.
• A diet that focuses on very few acceptable foods, and doesn't focus on a healthy, balanced diet.
• A diet that points to simple explanations drawn from confusing research.

Take it Easy After You Give Birth

After you've had a baby, your body needs time to heal, so you shouldn't expect to immediately resume normal physical activity.

These are few suggestions for new moms:

• Go easy on your body. Resume your normal schedule and activities gradually.
• Lift your baby, and that's about it. Avoid lifting anything heavy, even grocery bags or loads of laundry.
• Don't drive a car for about two weeks, or until your doctor says it's OK.
• Walking is great. Start out going for regular short walks.
• Limit stair climbing for at least the first week. Be careful using the stairs, and only climb long staircases once or twice each day.

Tip: Is Your Child Getting Too Much Sugar?

Too much sugar in a child's diet can contribute to weight and dental problems.
These suggestions for limiting the amount of sugar your child gets:

• When baking, cut sugar down to two-thirds of what the recipe says.
• Sweeten cookies and other baked goods with dried fruits instead of candy or chocolate.
• Instead of offering your child a muffin or a doughnut for breakfast, serve a bagel.
• Serve natural, unsweetened fruit juice instead of sodas or other sugar-laden beverages.
• Save candy for a special treat. Only allow your child candy once or twice a week.

Risk Factors for Anorexia

Anorexia is an eating disorder in which a person becomes obsessed about gaining weight and severely limits food or starves to feel more in control. Most people with anorexia are female.
There's no single cause of anorexia, but there are a number of contributing factors.

• Anorexia may be caused by hormonal changes or chemical changes in the brain.
• A family history of anorexia can increase a person's risk of developing the disorder.
• Stressful or traumatizing experiences, including major life changes or violent crime, can make a person more prone to developing anorexia.
• Having a perfectionist personality, or having extremely high standards for one's self, also are risk factors.
• Exposure to a culture with an emphasis on thinness and looks is an additional risk factor.

Living With Latex Allergy

Latex is found in a number of common objects -- ranging from dishwashing gloves to rubber toys. The sanitary gloves that doctors and nurses use also are frequently made of latex.
If you've got a latex allergy these suggestions will help you to prevent a reaction:

• Figure out which items at home and work are made from latex, and find non-latex items as replacements.
• Be careful around powdered latex gloves and similar products. Even breathing in the powder can be harmful.
• In a medical situation -- whether you're a worker or patient -- make sure that you or others than you come in contact with wear non-latex gloves.
• Carry a medical alert bracelet, necklace, or key chain that notes your allergy.
• Ask your doctor if you should carry an emergency epinephrine injection with you.

Nutrition for Athletic Performance

If you've been training for an athletic event -- a big game, a marathon or other intense workout -- it's important to eat the right foods to support your body when it needs proper nutrition most.

Suggestions:

• Make sure that you eat three to four hours before your event.
• Prepare your body with a high-carbohydrate meal.
• Stick to foods that are easy for your body to digest; stay away from fried foods.
• Steer clear of high-sugar foods and drinks for at least an hour before your event.
• Make sure you drink plenty of fluids. One-to-two hours before, drink 20 ounces of water; 15-to-30 minutes before, drink another 10 to 15 ounces. If possible, drink 3 to 6 ounces every 10 to 20 minutes during the event.

Health Tip: Wine Could Benefit the Heart

Excessive drinking offers no benefits whatsoever, but having a single glass of red wine each day could help the heart.
The flavonoids found in red wine (also in grapes and grape juice) are thought to be the heart-healthy components.
Women, however, should consume no more than one drink each day, and no more than two drinks each day for men which equates a drink of wine to four ounces' worth.
Other ways to help boost heart health include getting regular exercise, eating a healthy diet, avoiding tobacco, and maintaining a proper body weight.

Log Your Headache Pain

If you frequently suffer from significant headache pain, it may help to document the circumstances during which it occurs and any potential triggers.
Logging the details of your headaches could become an invaluable tool for you and your doctor.

Suggestion:

• The duration of each headache.
• How badly your head hurt, and exactly where the pain occurred.
• The day of the week and time of day that the headache occurred.
• Anything you ate or drank before the headache started.
• Activities you did before the headache began.
• Any medication, herb, or other remedy that you took for headache pain.
• How you felt during your headache, including symptoms such as nausea or seeing an aura.
• How headaches have affected your life, including any activities you are forced to miss or no longer feel like doing.

Oh, Those Aching Muscles

 If you've been working out a bit too hard, or if you're just getting into exercise, you might have minor muscle soreness.

Suggestions to help manage minor muscle pain:

• Allow your muscles to rest. Don't engage in any heavy exercise while they recover.
• Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease pain.
• For the first few days, ice the area. After the first two to three days, apply heat to the sore muscles.
• As you recover, try low-impact exercises such as swimming, biking and walking. Gradually work your way up to longer and tougher exercises.
• Sleep, stretch and avoid stress.

What Seniors Eat

Nutrition is an important part of a healthy lifestyle at any age, a requirement that doesn't change as you get older.

Here are some dietary guidelines for older people:

Seniors should get 1- to 1.2-grams of protein each day per kilogram of their weight. For instance, a 150-pound person (70 kg) should get 70 to 100 grams of protein daily. Those with chronic kidney disease should ask their doctor about how much protein is safe.

Seniors need 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day, and 1,000 units of vitamin D daily.

Seniors should take special care to eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables.

Seniors should take a multivitamin if their diet isn't balanced, they've been sick, or are losing weight. Vitamins don't include protein, however.

Understanding Seasonal Sadness

 Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is triggered when the seasons change, most often with the onset of winter and the corresponding decrease in sunlight.

Common symptoms of winter-onset seasonal affective disorder:

• Appetite changes, particularly a desire for sweets and starches.
• Gaining weight.
• Sleeping too much.
• Lack of energy and a feeling of fatigue.
• Feeling irritable, anxious and having problems concentrating.
• Not wanting to participate in social activities and a general lack of interest in things you once enjoyed.
• Increased concern about being rejected socially.

Treatments are available for SAD. Talk with your doctor if you have these symptoms.

Walking for Exercise

Walking is a great form of daily exercise that can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

These suggestions to help you establish a walking-for-exercise program:

• Walk at your usual pace for about 5 minutes, then speed it up to where your heart is beating faster and you feel like you're inhaling more air. Keep up this pace for about 15 minutes. Repeat your warm-up pace for another 5 minutes.
• Always wear a sturdy pair of shoes that offer good arch and heel support.
• While you walk, remember to let your arms swing.
• Walk with your toes pointing straight ahead.
• Flatten your abdomen, straighten your back, and walk with your head up.
• Walk briskly and with long strides, but make sure your stride is comfortable.

Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that can lead to serious illness or death if inhaled in significant amounts.

Potential sources include: unvented kerosene and gas space heaters, furnaces, wood stoves, gas stoves, fireplaces and water heaters, and automobile exhaust.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning could include tiredness, headache, confusion, nausea and dizziness.

Suggestions to help protect you and your loved ones from carbon monoxide poisoning:

• Make sure that every appliance in your home is installed properly and is working correctly.
• Have your furnace, chimneys and flues inspected and cleaned each year.
• If using a fireplace, make sure the flue is open.
• Never heat your home with a gas range or oven.
• Be sure that your stove and furnace vent outdoors and there are no leaks in the exhaust systems. Also make sure that your furnace takes in enough fresh air.
• Never burn charcoal indoors or in any enclosed space, such as in a camper or R.V.
• Never leave a gas-fueled tool or vehicle running inside a garage or tool shed, or anywhere indoors.
• Never use kerosene or gas heaters indoors.

Using a Steroid Nasal Spray

Steroid nasal sprays can be used to help nasal congestion and mucus production, symptoms of conditions including sinusitis (sinus inflammation).

These suggestions when using a nasal steroid spray:

• If your nasal spray comes in a canister, make sure you wash the canister device thoroughly at least once each week.
• Before you spray, sniff air into each nostril to be sure the passageways are clear.
• Point the nozzle straight toward the back of your head so that you don't waste the medicine.
• The medicine should not drip down the back of your throat or from your nose.
• Stop using the spray if you have nosebleeds or pain in your nose. Discuss these symptoms with your doctor.
• Give the spray time to work. You may not see results for up to two weeks.

Coping With Pet Allergies

 If being near a pet makes you sniffle, sneeze, and your eyes water, you may not have to live a pet-free life.

Suggestions:

• Always wash your hands after you touch a pet. And avoid kissing or hugging your furry friend.
• Keep cat litter boxes away from vents, and try to limit your exposure to them.
• Give your pet a bath each week to reduce dander. And try to have a person who isn't allergic regularly brush your pet outdoors.
• Don't allow pets on upholstered furniture. If necessary, cover the furniture in plastic.
• Make sure your pet is on a healthy diet to help reduce shedding.
• Try to eliminate rugs and carpets from your home, and use a double filter or micro-filter bag in your vacuum.
• Ask your doctor about getting allergy shots to control symptoms.

Losing Your Hair?

Hair loss can be triggered by many things, including hormonal changes, medications, radiation or your genetic makeup.

To help you deal with hair loss:

• Hair loss may not be permanent. When it is lost as a side effect of an illness, medication or radiation therapy, the hair probably will grow back on its own. You can wear a hat, scarf or a wig until your hair has grown back in.
• Hair loss that has occurred because of hormonal changes, age or hereditary may be treatable with a topical medication such as Rogaine (minoxidil) or an oral medication such as Propecia (finasteride). None is guaranteed to work on everyone.
• Hair transplant surgery can replace lost hair with hair from another part of the head.
• Hair loss can be covered up with a wig, a hair piece or weave, and sometimes even with a different hair style.

Health Tip: After a Heart Attack

After a heart attack, it's important to reduce or eliminate risk factors for a subsequent attack.

These factors increase your risk of another heart attack:

• Getting insufficient exercise.
• Having high blood pressure or high cholesterol.
• Being too stressed.
• Being overweight.
• Having high blood sugar, if you're diabetic.
• Being a smoker.
• Drinking too much alcohol.

Health Tip: See Your Doctor Before Pregnancy

When you're pregnant, certain medical conditions can be dangerous for you and your developing baby, but you might not even be aware of some of these potential health risks.
So, it's important to have a thorough medical exam before you become pregnant.

This list of potential risk factors:

• Diabetes and high blood pressure should be diagnosed and well-controlled before pregnancy.
• Anemia can trigger symptoms of weakness and fatigue. A complete blood count (CBC) is used to measure factors including hemoglobin, red and white blood cell count, and platelet appearance.
• A test measuring thyroid-stimulating hormone can help determine if your thyroid is overactive or underactive. Either condition could pose risks for you and the developing baby.
• You should always be checked for sexually transmitted diseases before you become pregnant.

Health Tip: Help Stop Thumbsucking

Many children suck their thumbs, but it can cause dental problems if children continue to suck their thumb beyond age 4.
Most children stop on their own, but continued thumbsucking could be a sign of a behavioral problem, such as anxiety or depression.

These suggestions to help your child quit the habit:

• Ask your pediatrician about having your child use a thumb guard.
• Apply a bitter-tasting material on your child's thumb. But always check with the child's doctor to make sure it's safe.
• Make a deal with your child. If he or she agrees to stop sucking the thumb, offer a reward.
• Offer praise and attention when you notice that your child isn't thumbsucking.
• If your child's teeth have been affected by thumbsucking, talk to the child's dentist about what can be done to correct it.

Health Tip: Feel Better by Looking Good

If you have a long-term illness, improving your appearance can help you feel better.

The following suggestions for improving the way you look (and feel):

• Take time to shave, wash and fix your hair or put on a wig or toupee, and put on makeup. Do this if you're at home, even in bed.
• Get new clothes or tailor your old ones to fit better.
• If you're able and it's OK with your doctor, treat yourself to a massage, facial, pedicure or manicure.
• Try to get as much exercise as you can each day. Even a brisk walk, if approved by your doctor, can do wonders toward making you look and feel better.
• Keep brushing and flossing your teeth regularly, and get dental checkups.
• Be sure to get enough sleep.

Health Tip: More Than You Can Chew

If you develop trouble chewing, it's important to make sure you are still getting each day's worth of vital nutrients.
These suggestions to help you maintain a healthy diet as you age:

• Instead of trying to munch on raw fruits, opt for fruit juice and canned fruits. Raw fruit alternatives include canned pears and peaches, or applesauce.
• Trade raw vegetables for vegetable juice and softer cooked vegetables, which can be creamed or mashed.
• Opt for ground meat, or get protein from easier-to-chew sources such as eggs and dairy products, including milk, cheese and yogurt.
• As alternatives to bread, eat cooked cereals, bread pudding and rice.