Sunday, April 6, 2025
A ministroke, or transient ischemic attack (TIA), is a temporary disruption of blood flow to the brain, spinal cord, or retina that lasts for a short time—typically less than 24 hours—without causing permanent damage. It is a warning sign that a full stroke could happen in the future. Recognizing and […]
Screening Recommendations: Age to Start: Most guidelines recommend starting regular screening at age 45 for people at average risk. Screening Methods: Stool-Based Tests: Fecal immunochemical test (FIT) annually High-sensitivity guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT) annually Multi-targeted stool DNA test (MT-sDNA) every 3 years Visual (Structural) Exams: Colonoscopy every 10 […]
MSG is a flavor enhancer commonly added to foods to boost their savory or umami taste. It is the sodium salt of glutamic acid, an amino acid naturally present in many foods, including tomatoes, cheese, and mushrooms. MSG is used widely in Asian cuisine, processed foods, canned soups, snacks, and […]
Maintaining adequate levels of essential vitamins and minerals is crucial for overall health, especially as we age. However, excessive intake can lead to adverse health effects. Below are recommendations for daily intake, food sources, and potential consequences of overconsumption for Vitamin A, Vitamin B6, Vitamin D, Calcium, and Iron. 1. […]
Navigating Medicare Benefits and End-of-Life Care for Elderly Loved Ones. Caring for an elderly loved one is a complex task that requires understanding Medicare benefits, knowing how to access assistance, and being prepared for medical and end-of-life care. Here’s a guide to help caregivers navigate these responsibilities: 1. Authorization and […]
Women over 50 can take several steps to maintain their health and vitality, potentially slowing the aging process. Here are some things to avoid to help prevent quick aging: Excessive Sun Exposure: Avoiding too much sun can help prevent skin damage and the formation of wrinkles and age spots. Always […]
West Nile Virus (WNV) is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause fever, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord). It is primarily spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The virus was first identified in the West […]
Symptoms and Warning Signs Memory Loss: The most common initial symptom, especially forgetting recently learned information. Difficulty Performing Familiar Tasks: Struggling to complete everyday tasks like preparing a meal or using a household appliance. Problems with Language: Forgetting simple words or substituting unusual words, making speech or writing hard to […]
Deciding to move an elderly parent into your home is a significant decision that impacts your entire family. Here are the steps and considerations you should take when an elder parent can no longer live alone: Assess the Situation: Determine your parent’s physical and mental health, including their mobility, cognitive […]
The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) updated its breast cancer screening guidelines in 2024. The key recommendations are: Age to Start Screening: Women at average risk should start getting mammograms at age 40. Frequency of Screening: Screenings should be done every two years from ages 40 to 74 […]