Atrial fibrillation, also known as A-fib, affects between nearly 3 million to 6 million peoplein the United States. The condition causes the upper chambers of the heart(atria) to beat quickly and in an uncontrolled manner (fibrillation), resultingin irregular and often rapid heart rate. This can impact blood flow throughoutthe body. The symptoms can include: On-demand…
There are multiple reports of norovirus sweeping the country and making entire families miserable. But what exactly is it? “Norovirus is a group of viruses that cause inflammation in the stomach and intestines,” said Paul Schulz, M.D., Norton Infectious Disease Specialists. “It causes people to have a lot of cramping, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea for one to…
For many, breastfeeding is a natural part of becoming a mother and a priority for the health of the baby. With the right preparation and support, you don’t have to give up your breastfeeding goals when you go back to work. Nearly 75 percent of women of childbearing age work outside of the home, according…
Test your knowledge of hype versus healthy when it comes to diet trends and fads: Hype • Excludes certain food groups • Focuses on a single food or supplement • Sounds too good to be true • Promises quick weight loss Healthy • Focuses on whole, unprocessed foods • Emphasizes portion control • Includes a…
It happens to all of us — that unexpected sneeze that escapes before you have time to grab a tissue and cover your mouth. Well, you just sent 40,000 droplets of saliva, mucus and germs traveling 200 miles per hour as far as 11 feet! Yep. Even a quick sneeze into the crook of your…
Apple cider vinegar makes a tasty salad dressing, but if that’s the only way you use it, you might be missing out. It’s also a popular ingredient in home remedies that promise a host of benefits, from shiny hair to weight loss. Among the most popular claims are these five uses for apple cider vinegar:…
Ryan Krupp, M.D., orthopaedic and sports medicine specialist with Norton Orthopaedic Care, recently discussed elbow and shoulder injuries in young athletes who play baseball. Although baseball is not a contact sport, serious and sometimes long-term injuries can occur, particularly in younger players. Occurring most often in pitchers, little league elbow and little league shoulder can…
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that more than one-third of adults in the United States get less than seven hours of sleep each night. When you aren’t getting the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep, you could be putting yourself at risk for more than dark circles under your eyes. The…
Did you know there are over three million visits to emergency departments each year for back pain symptoms? Some of these can be prevented by making a habit of doing back stretches and exercising. Stretching the muscles of the lower back, shoulders, neck and chest can help keep the back in better alignment and improve posture….
You’ve probably heard that the key to quitting a habit is replacing that “behavior” with another. For people trying to stop using tobacco, during those times when you want to smoke, do something else that doesn’t remind you of smoking. Start by making a plan for how to handle smoking “triggers” and cravings — before…
Whether your training for your first 5k, 10k, half marathon or marathon, or you’re a seasoned runner, you should be listening to your body. How are you feeling? If you feel you can really push it, do it. If you need a break, take it. If you’re not sure you can meet your training plan’s…
Did you know certain foods can help you lose weight faster? Recent studies have identified five you might just have in your kitchen already. Check them out.