Health Tips

Almost everyone, but in order to understand why, a little background is necessary. “Hepatitis” means inflammation of the liver, but most people know it as a viral infection affecting the liver. The most common types are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C, each caused by a different virus. While…

Untold thousands of turkeys will be prepared for Thanksgiving dinner this year. Safe turkey preparation requires special knowledge since it is a large item that is typically frozen prior to cooking and, with the exception of holidays, is not commonly prepared. Which is best fresh or frozen? This appears primarily…

Recent statistics indicate that over 46 million Americans still smoke despite widespread knowledge that tobacco use is a leading cause of disease and premature death. However, of these, almost four out of every five would like to quit. Why don’t they? Most smokers find smoking to be pleasurable. In addition,…

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression triggered by the changing of the seasons. In most cases, it occurs along with the shortening of daylight hours in the fall and continues into the winter months. SAD typically resolves with the longer days of spring and stays in remission…

Cancer screening is used to detect the disease in its earlier stages when treatment is more successful. But even more importantly, screening is used to reduce cancer deaths. The Pap test is an example of a screening test that has been highly successful in reducing death from cervical cancer. Other…

The common problem of awakening with a stiff neck is a topic that is addressed poorly, if at all, during medical training. In fact, it doesn’t even have a consistent name in the medical literature. It is sometimes referred to as “torticollis” or “wry neck”, but these terms also apply…

Recently, officials from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) released guidance regarding influenza vaccination for the upcoming 2011-2012 influenza season. This included information about the anticipated strains of influenza virus during this year’s season, recommendations for special groups of individuals, and announced the release of a flu vaccine delivery method….

Many women, as well as men, take the position of Billy Crystal’s alter ego, Fernando, that “it is better to look good than to feel good”. Unfortunately, following the latest fashion trends can also have adverse health consequences. In the name of fashion, women can risk injury and illness, as…

What can cause your center of gravity to be thrown off, constrict blood flow in the neck, put pressure on your back, and predispose you to accidents or cancer? Sounds like something that should be avoided at all costs, right? In fact, these all can be consequences of following the…

A number of conditions can cause fainting, including heart rhythm abnormalities, seizures, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), and anemia. More common than these, however, is a relatively benign condition called vasovagal syncope, also known as the “common faint”. Syncope [sing-kuh-pee] is themedical term for “blacking out” and vasovagal refers to the…