Date: Fri, 19 Dec 1997 20:48:22 GMT Server: Apache/1.2.4 Last-Modified: Wed, 17 Sep 1997 16:44:45 GMT ETag: "4b769-2a57-342008fd" Content-Length: 10839 Accept-Ranges: bytes Connection: close Content-Type: text/html
6/1/1997 You may not know it, but regular weight-bearing exercise (such as walking or running) promotes bone formation and may prevent many forms of bone loss that occur with aging. 6/2/1997 Did you know that regular exercise builds muscle and accelerates metabolism so that it's possible to burn more fat even at rest? Even as little as twenty to thirty minutes of aerobic activity 3-5 times a week can boost your energy level and recharge your metabolism. 6/3/1997 If you're taking an anticoagulant to reduce stroke risk, don't take Vitamin E until you check with your doctor. When taken in large doses, Vitamin E can enhance the effectiveness of the drug, and possibly cause bleeding. 6/4/1997 Colorectal cancer, which develops over time, may be treated if detected early before symptoms appear. Tests are now available for early colorectal cancer screening. Ask your doctor about proactive steps you can take for prevention. 6/5/1997 Chronic back pain is a discouraging condition. But there are things you can do to stay more comfortable. Avoid sleeping on your stomach. Sleep on your back with your knees drawn up or sleep on your side with a pillow between your legs. When standing for long periods of time, prop your foot up on a foot rest or box, occasionally alternating between the left and right foot. 6/6/1997 Certain back exercises may be beneficial in relieving back pain, especially for pregnant women. Strengthening the back muscles is a natural alternative for women who would rather avoid taking medication during pregnancy. Ask your doctor for some safe exercises. Also consider a therapeutic massage. 6/7/1997 If you're considering pregnancy, ask your doctor about folic acid supplements. Studies have shown that folic acid may be helpful in preventing certain birth defects. 6/8/1997 Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition affecting millions of Americans, primarily women. Symptoms include chronic pain and stiffness in muscles and joints, especially around the neck, shoulders, lower back or hip. Relief can sometimes be gained with stretching exercises, improved sleep, applications of heat and gentle massage. 6/9/1997 Contrary to what many believe, the HIV virus has not been found to be transmitted through casual contact. The virus is mainly transmitted through sexual contact or direct contact with the blood of an infected person. You cannot contract HIV from a toilet seat, swimming pool or sharing food with someone who has the HIV virus. 6/10/1997 Taking precautions may reduce the risk of contracting HIV. This includes maintaining celibacy or a monogamous, long-term relationship, or at least knowing someone's personal background before becoming intimate. 6/11/1997 While there is still no cure for HIV, there is some progress. New drugs are being developed which can slow down the disease's progress and reduce symptoms. Ask your doctor about the latest drugs available-or check with one of the many clinics specifically dedicated to treating HIV patients. 6/12/1997 There is some evidence that the use of a diaphragm combined with a spermicide may reduce the risk of cervical cancer. However, to be sure about ruling it out, doctors recommend regular Pap smears for women between the ages of 18 and 65. The frequency of the tests depends on several factors-age, sexual activity and family history. Ask your gynecologist how often you should have a Pap smear. 6/13/1997 In trying to shape up for summer, don't fall into the trap of using steroids to enhance your muscular appearance. Steroid use can bring on physical problems such as increased blood cholesterol levels, liver problems, acne and high blood pressure, to name a few. And those are just the short term effects. In the long run, the risks far outweigh the extra muscle you could build. 6/14/1997 Memory loss in an elderly loved one is not necessarily an indication of Alzheimer's disease. There are many possible reasons for memory loss, including medication, depression, a thyroid condition or infection. Some memory loss is reversible. See your doctor for a proper diagnosis. 6/15/1997 It's not only chronic alcohol abuse that can damage your liver. Some medications can as well. Be sure to discuss all of your health history and your family's health history with your physician before he or she prescribes a medication for you. 6/16/1997 Baby's skin is tender and especially sensitive to the summer sun. Be sure to protect your baby by using hats and covered strollers, and by keeping your new baby in the shade as much as possible during the heat of summer. 6/17/1997 Proper food handling in summer weather can help avoid food poisoning. It doesn't take long for bacteria to form on food-especially foods made with mayonnaise. Always keep your picnic foods in a cooler if you're going to be outside for more than an hour or two. 6/18/1997 Tennis elbow, an inflammation of the tendons and muscles surrounding the outside of the elbow, can be painful and take time to heal. You can help to avoid this condition with strength training, warm-up exercises and a properly fitted racket. 6/19/1997 Even sunscreens that claim to be "waterproof" will eventually wear off when you're swimming. To keep your skin safe, reapply sunscreen every few hours. 6/20/1997 Avoid burns. When heating a baby's bottle in the microwave, take special care to test the temperature of the contents before giving it to your baby. Remember that microwaving food makes the contents much hotter than the container. 6/21/1997 Summer is here and when you're out on your bicycle, the most important thing to remember is to wear a helmet. Over 75% of all bicycle-related deaths are attributable to head injuries. The best protection is offered by hard-shelled helmets with a padded lining, but even those with a foam outer shell offer more protection than not wearing one at all. 6/22/1997 Rollerblading is a wonderful way to get some exercise and fresh air. But remember to invest in the proper protective equipment such as elbow and knee pads, wrist guards, gloves and a helmet. The first time you take a tumble, you'll be glad you did! 6/23/1997 Summer activities can require a lot of energy, but remember to take the time to drink enough water to avoid dehydration. Generally dehydration occurs before you feel the symptoms (Marked thirst, dry mouth, cramping). Make it a point to carry a bottle filled with water or a beverage designed to replace electrolytes. 6/24/1997 This summer, practice water safety. Don't swim alone. Make sure there's a lifeguard on duty at your local pool or beach. Don't swim when you're fatigued or full from a heavy meal. Know your swimming ability and stay within your limitations. To become a better swimmer, take a course at your local YMCA or community center. 6/25/1997 Simple heartburn may not be so simple. More and more Americans are suffering from GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), a digestive disorder in which acid from the stomach flows to the lower end of the esophagus. This causes a burning sensation in the chest and mouth, sometimes coupled with gagging. If you suffer from these symptoms, check with your doctor for a complete diagnosis. 6/26/1997 Many medications do not mix with alcohol, and sometimes the results can be extremely dangerous. When your doctor prescribes a new medication, ask whether you can drink alcohol while taking it. If you're currently on medication and you're unsure about mixing it with alcohol, the best advice is, "Don't." 6/27/1997 Nighttime leg cramps can be painful and rob you of valuable rest. They are most often brought on by exercise, a change in shoe heel height or pregnancy. If your legs cramp only occasionally, try gently massaging and stretching out the area. If the pain is severe, you may need to try a warm bath. If cramping occurs often, see your doctor. 6/28/1997 In an effort to reduce drug abuse, over-the-counter home drug testing kits are now available. They are simple, safe and private. If you are concerned about your children, talk to your doctor or Walgreens pharmacist for more information about home drug testing. 6/29/1997 If you frequently develop athlete's foot, you can take steps to help prevent it. Bathe your feet daily and make sure they are completely dry before putting on shoes and socks. Change your shoes and socks frequently, and use an anti-fungal foot powder. Also be sure to wear absorbent socks made of natural materials which allow your feet to breathe. 6/30/1997 Summer swimming in lakes can sometimes present the danger of swimmer's itch, a rash of tiny bumps caused by bacteria in the water. It's best to shower with soap and water after swimming in lakes. If you do develop swimmer's itch, you can treat it with calamine lotion. |