News

As we move into fall, you might be feeling at the top of your game — you’ve made it a priority to exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet and get stress under control. Last summer, you barely had a sniffle. Plus, you’re one of those people who just doesn’t get sick very often. You might be wondering: Can I skip getting a flu shot?

An epidemic of chronic diseases continues to grow in the United States; half the population — an estimated 129 million Americans — have lifelong health conditions that need continuous medical attention and limit certain daily activities.

For all we know about multiple sclerosis (MS) – a chronic disease where a person’s immune system attacks their central nervous system and causes fatigue, bladder issues and pain, among other symptoms – there are still a lot of misconceptions around the condition. Read on to learn what’s fact and what’s fiction when it comes to MS.

When it comes to stroke, it’s crucial to know how to recognize its signs and symptoms so you can access care quickly and preserve brain function. One acronym — BE FAST — can make it easier to identify a stroke, which happens when there’s a blockage to the brain’s blood supply (an ischemic stroke) or a sudden rupture and bleeding in the brain (a hemorrhagic stroke).

BE FAST stands for:

Whether your favorite summer activity is taking a long hike on a trail, catching waves at the beach or having fun at a backyard barbecue, the warmer temperatures generally mean more time spent outdoors in the sun. But because more exposure to sunlight means more exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet A and B rays, you need to take steps to protect yourself from cancer-causing ultraviolet radiation.

Vaccinations are a cornerstone of adult health, offering protection against multiple diseases that can affect quality of life and longevity. As we age, the immunity we gained from childhood vaccinations can wane, leaving us vulnerable to infections. Moreover, lifestyle changes, travel and age-related health changes introduce new risks that adult vaccinations can make less severe or painful.

Every February, a very famous football game consumes the general American public. Football is a beloved sport and pastime that celebrates athleticism and teamwork and captures the imaginations of kids who have dreams of going pro. But as The Big Game has grown in size and spectacle over the years, more concern has bubbled up over head injuries, like concussions, in football.

There’s a lot to love about football, but there are also safety factors to consider — as there are with any sport. Here’s what to know about concussions and football.