A mutated version of the flu virus is causing issues around the world. And the U.S. could be next. The new flu variant is a version of influenza A H3N2, and it’s been dubbed “subclade K.” This mutated strain has already caused a surge of infections overseas. Flu information in the U.S. has been scarce due to the government shutdown, making it hard to know about the activity of this strain—or any form of the flu—in the country right now. There are reports of this strain of th

Magnesium plays a vital role in keeping your body functioning at its best. From supporting strong bones to maintaining a healthy heart, magnesium is a powerhouse nutrient often overlooked in daily diets. Including magnesium in the diet may boost bone strength, support heart health and improve mental well-being. It offers comprehensive benefits for overall wellness. Let’s dive into the health benefits of magnesium and see how getting enough may improve your overall health. Wha

An eyelid twitch or contraction is a repetitive and involuntary spasm of the eyelid muscles. Eyelid twitches typically occur in unpredictable periods lasting between a few seconds and hours. Chronic twitching could last for a few days or weeks. Most twitches are painless, harmless, and will resolve without medical intervention. In rare cases, eyelid spasms may be an early warning sign of a chronic movement disorder, especially if other facial tics or uncontrollable movements

Every year, about 29 million adults in the U.S. — or 1 out of 8 — are diagnosed with a sinus infection, also called sinusitis. An estimated one-fifth of all prescribed antibiotics are intended to treat sinusitis. Your sinuses are four pairs of air-filled interconnected cavities located between your eyes and nose. What goes on inside them — a microscopic battle between infection- and inflammation-causing antigens and the body’s defense forces — can have a serious impact on you

Many individuals are delaying investigations into potential cancer symptoms, a new survey suggests, often due to difficulties securing GP appointments or underestimating the seriousness of their health concerns. Research by Cancer Research UK, polling 6,844 individuals across the UK via YouGov, found that 53 per cent anticipated trouble booking a GP slot, 47 per cent actually encountered issues, 44 per cent assumed symptoms were not serious, and 43 per cent believed they coul

Germy Faucet Handles Dirty hands are always touching kitchen and bathroom faucet handles -- and cold and flu viruses may hitch a ride. Plus, those areas are hotspots for yeast, mold, and bacteria like salmonella and E. coli . Wipe down faucet handles daily with disinfectant spray or wipes. Tainted Toothbrush Holders One study found these can be one of the germiest spots in your home. As a general rule, put them in the dishwasher or hand-wash them with hot, soapy water once or

Not Reading Directions Some wipes, like the kind made with benzalkonium chloride, are only approved to kill bacteria. They might not work as well on viruses. Wipes with “disinfectant” on the label should kill bacteria, viruses, and mold. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) keeps a list of approved disinfectants on its website. Check the product’s label for the EPA registration number. Drying Surfaces Too Fast They should stay visibly wet for a little while. The amount o

Obstructive sleep apnea may exhibit some surprising signs and symptoms. While it’s often associated with older adult males carrying extra weight, it can actually affect anyone, depending on the shape of their jaw and airway. Consider some of these alternative signs and whether the underlying cause might be due to untreated sleep apnea. 1. Depression Sleep apnea can impact mood, often contributing to depression. Common signs include persistent sadness, low energy, poor concent

Avocados These pear-shaped fruits (yep, they’re fruits!) are packed with potassium. Your body needs potassium to manage its sodium levels, which in turn controls the amount of water you hang onto. The better that system works, the less bloat you’ll have. Bananas Bananas deliver a potassium punch. One study showed that women who ate a banana before each meal bloated less than those who didn’t. Experts think that’s because they deliver certain gut bacteria that help calm gas pr

While outdoor air pollution certainly poses a concern, it might be easy to forget that the quality of the air you breathe at home may be just as important. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that indoor pollutant levels be 100 times higher than outdoor air pollutants. Higher levels could lead to health effects, including allergic reactions, asthma, heart disease, and possibly cancer. Unexplained respiratory symptoms could offer a clue that it may be time to

A slight tickle in your throat, body aches, and a sudden fever could be some of the first signs that you’re coming down with the flu. The influenza virus (or flu for short) affects between 5 and 20 percent of the U.S. population each year. It’s crucial that you recognize the symptoms early so you can start taking care of yourself. It’s especially critical for young children, older adults, pregnant people, or people with conditions that affect their respiratory or immune sys

Feeling off but not spiking a fever? That doesn’t necessarily mean you don’t have the flu, COVID or other common illnesses that circulate this time of year. Many of the early warning signs of common infections appear differently in older adults — and some of the symptoms can be surprising.   Much of it has to do with the weakening of the immune system with age, a process known as immunosenescence. This decline blunts the typical response to fighting off infection and the sy

Changes in daylight hours and cooler temperatures contribute to various body changes in autumn. If you notice mood changes, energy dips, or generally feeling "off" in the transition from summer to fall, you're not alone. 1. Your Mood Changes Many people experience mood changes as the weather cools and the days become shorter. Less physical activity could be to blame, but other factors may also be at play: Low vitamin D levels: Vitamin D comes primarily from sun exposure. Vit

Spring brings warmer weather, blooming flowers, and greener lawns. But for more than 81 million Americans with seasonal allergies, it can also mean itchy throats, watery eyes, and nonstop sneezing. And allergy season is getting longer. Due to shifts in the climate, experts say it now starts 20 days earlier and lasts 10 days longer than it did 30 years ago—with pollen levels rising more than 20%. If you or a loved one are affected, knowing what’s behind those symptoms—and how

Infection rates from drug-resistant “nightmare bacteria” are on the rise in the U.S.—meaning that it is important to be aware of the risks, causes and how to slow the spread. The surge comes as part of what the World Health Organization (WHO) has dubbed “one of the top global public health and development threats”: antimicrobial resistance (AMR). AMR occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites no longer respond to antimicrobial medicines. Antimicrobials include antibio

Artery Damage Your arteries should be sturdy, springy, and smooth to move blood easily from your heart and lungs to your organs and other tissues. High blood pressure, or HBP, pushes too hard on your artery walls. This damages the inside and causes fat, or “plaque,” to collect. That plaque makes your arteries more stiff and narrow, so they can’t do their job as well.  Aneurysm It’s when pressure pushes out a section of an artery wall and weakens it. If it breaks, it can bleed

Sick Day Solutions When you're sick with the flu, stomach bug, or even a common cold, what you eat can make all the difference between spending another day in bed and waking up refreshed. The key is eating meals that are comforting physically and emotionally — plus getting a little nourishment. That’s why we asked 10 registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) which foods they turn to when they’re under the weather. Shockingly, chicken noodle soup isn’t on the list! Smoothies

What Over-the-Counter Drugs Affect the Liver? Many people rely on OTC medications for relief from pain, cold symptoms, and other ailments, but some of these drugs can harm your liver. Painkillers like acetaminophen , and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen, can cause liver damage if taken in high doses or over long periods. Even supplements like kava and green tea extract can be risky. The liver processes these substances, and excessive use can lead to liver toxicity, inf

Lime wedges look fabulous perched on the rims of your favorite beverage, but they’re so much more than a simple garnish. Limes are also packed with health-enhancing phytonutrients. Registered dietitian Julia Zumpano, RD, LD, shares six stellar reasons to include limes and lime juice in your diet. Why are limes good for you? The vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other nutrients in limes offer anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting benefits. They can also help fight cellular

Irritable Bowel Syndrome This condition causes pain in your belly area and changes in bathroom habits that last at least 3 months. Your...