Maintaining a healthy diet is difficult, especially with the temptation of dining out at every corner. A national trend analysis found that an increasing number of Americans are dining out, and doing so more frequently. This frequent dining out has been linked to both weight gain and obesity due to the fact that these foods…
Women naturally have some yeast cells that live on their skin, in their gut, and in their vagina. When there is a build-up of yeast in the vagina, a thick, white discharge may appear along with symptoms such as vaginal itching, burning, or redness. This is called a yeast infection, or vaginal candidiasis. Yeast may…
As protein supplements become more popular, the number of options continue to grow. Ingredients, effects, sources, and forms are continuously changing and not all are created equal. In order to determine which type of supplement will work best for you, varying sources from which protein powders come from are described below (Harvard School of Public…
Depression is both more common and more serious than many people believe it to be. It not only affects how you feel, but also how you think and carry out daily activities such as eating, sleeping, or working. Below are three things that everyone should know if they believe they are depressed (National institute of…
There are several over the counter antifungal medications available at your local pharmacy. But, first, how do you know if you have a fungal infection? It appears generally like a red, burning rash. It can also appear like scaly, shiny, or flaky patches. Sometimes it itches. Most common areas to have a fungal rash are…
Scenario: I just took a new medication prescribed by my doctor. One hour later, I have some nausea. Does this mean I am allergic to it? First, let’s discuss what a drug allergy is. A drug allergy is the abnormal reaction of your immune system to a medication. Any medication- over-the-counter, prescription or herbal- is…
“Oh, no! I ate pizza and now I have burning up my throat! Help!” Do not panic, you most likely are experiencing heartburn. Heartburn, also known as indigestion or gastric reflux, is an uncomfortable, burning sensation felt in the upper abdominal area. This occurs when stomach contents flow back up into the esophagus. You can…
A wound infection occurs when germs infect your skin and sometimes the deep tissues underneath it. In some cases, it’s caused by a parasite invading your skin. You can get a skin infection any time your skin is broken, whether from a cut, puncture, sting, or bite. Some infections happen at the skin’s surface, but…
Snacking is not always necessarily “bad” for you and can be healthy for you if chosen properly. Snacking is an opportunity to bring more nutrition to your day, while also staying energized and focused between meals. It is important to read the nutrition label when choosing snacks and try to avoid any added sugars or…
Coping strategies to help manage with stress and anxiety can help keep a positive, happy, and healthy mind, as well as emotional equilibrium. Coping involves adjusting to unusual demands and stressors and requires a greater effort and using greater energy. Some common coping mechanisms may challenge one to lower their expectations, ask for help from…
The frequency of your blood work depends on both your health and your doctor’s discretion. The United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends certain blood tests depending on age and sex. Blood work generally consists of a variety of different panels that check for very selective components in your blood, including electrolytes, hormones, and…
What is a DVT (deep vein thrombosis) and how do I know if I have one? A DVT is a blood clot that forms in a deep vein in your body, usually in the legs. Symptoms include unilateral leg swelling, pain, redness, tenderness, especially behind the knee or in the calf. The causes of deep…
Anxiety is characterized by excessive worry and feelings of anxiousness that are difficult to control, causing significant distress and impairment. Anxiety occurs commonly, most often with adult onset, and a chronic course. The effects of anxiety may lead to impairments in daily functioning and diminished quality of life. However, anxiety can be effectively treated with…
Although sunlight is beneficial in the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin, too much or too strong of sunlight without proper protection is responsible for sunburn, skin cancers, and premature aging. Wearing sunscreen daily is an easy and effective way to protect the appearance and health of your skin. If used on a regular…
