A person may laugh in their sleep due to odd dreams or sleep disorders. Rarely, the cause is a neurological condition. Sleep laughing can also be normal, especially in babies. Learn more about laughing during sleep her...
Friday, May 31, 2019
Medical News Today: What to know about collagen supplements
Collagen supplements can help improve skin health. Collagen is a protein that promotes skin elasticity. Most people can take collagen supplements without experiencing negative effects. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: What is learned helplessness?
In this article, we discuss the psychology behind learned helplessness — a state in which a person feels unable to change a stressful situation, even when change becomes possible. We look at the background of the theory and ways to overcome this stat...
Medical News Today: What to know about precum and pregnancy
It is possible to get pregnant from precum. Precum is a fluid that the penis releases before ejaculation. The fluid is a lubricant that may contain sperm. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: How do you know if you have a sprained ankle?
Signs of a sprained ankle include pain and swelling. Doctors grade sprains depending on severity. Causes include falling and overuse. Learn more about the signs of a sprained ankle her...
Medical News Today: What are the most healthful types of bread?
Some types of bread, including whole grain and sprouted bread, provide plenty of nutrients and health benefits. This article takes a look at some of the most healthful brea...
Ky. has the second highest per-capita spending on prescription drugs, no surprise in a state that is riddled with poor health
States with top 10 average yearly per-capita
expenditure on prescriptions. (The Senior List)
A new analysis shows how much the average resident in each state spends on prescription drugs. Kentucky took the second spot, with an average annual per-capita expense of $2,111, with Delaware spending the most at $2,331,...
Nine Johnson County Middle School students get Healthy Policy Champion award for efforts to curb youth use of e-cigarettes
The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky has named nine Johnson County Middle School students as the latest Healthy Kentucky Policy Champions for their efforts to curb youth use of electronic cigarettes, both in their school and across Kentucky.
Johnson County students with Sen. Ralph Alvarado, Foundation for a
Healthy...
Judge rules foundation that pays UK doctors and bills patients is a public agency and must follow the Kentucky Open Records Act
A Fayette Circuit Court judge has ruled that the Kentucky Medical Services Foundation, which bills patients and collects millions of dollars for UK HealthCare doctors, is a public agency and must follow the state open-records law, Linda Blackford reports for the Lexington Herald-Leader.
Kentucky.com photo
Judge Kimberly...
Medical News Today: What STDs can you get from oral sex?
There are many sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) that people can get as a result of having oral sex, including gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia. Learn about how people can transmit STDs orally, the symptoms they cause, and the available treatments her...
Pineville hospital is cut off by Medicare and Medicaid, which in 2015 accounted for 93% of its patient days; city seeking rescue
The federal government has cut off Medicare and Medicaid payments to Southeastern Kentucky Medical Center in Pineville following a "scathing inspection" that found the hospital with long list of patient-care and financial shortcomings, Will Wright reports for the Lexington Herald-Leader.
Pineville Mayor Scott Madon told the Middlesboro Daily News that the city is “doing all it can to provide support for the efforts of the bankruptcy trustee to protect...
Evolent Health to buy 70% of Passport Health Plan; will continue to serve the company's more than 300,000 Medicaid beneficiaries
Evolent Health, a for-profit national health management company, has agreed to purchase Passport Health Plan, the struggling, nonprofit Medicaid insurer based in Louisville.
WHAS11.com image
Evolent, which has provided services and staff to Passport since 2016, will purchase a 70% share of Passport for $70 million,...
Medical News Today: What causes heartburn and nausea?
Heartburn and nausea are both common digestive issues. They can occur together, especially if a person experiences indigestion. Learn more in this articl...
Medical News Today: Why sleep is essential for health
Sleep is important for energy, avoiding weight gain, lowering the risk of heart disease, and reducing stress. Learn more about the importance of getting a good night’s rest her...
Medical News Today: Are feminine hygiene products really necessary?
Are intimate hygiene products, such as 'feminine' washes and douches, safe to use? Why or why not? In this Spotlight feature, we investigat...
Medical News Today: Letter from the Editor: Self-love
May is Mental Health Month. In this month's letter, Managing Editor Honor talks about the importance of self-love for mental health and well-bein...
Medical News Today: Fat in soil bacteria may protect against stress
The discovery of an anti-inflammatory, stress-protective fatty acid in a soil bacterium sheds light on why contact with dirt can be good for our healt...
Medical News Today: More evidence that ultra-processed foods could harm health
Two large new European studies have looked into the various health hazards associated with a high consumption of ultra-processed food...
Medical News Today: Autism and the gut microbiome: Further evidence strengthens link
New research in rodents finds additional evidence that the microbiome may influence the likelihood of developing autistic behavior...
Medical News Today: What to know about insulin and weight gain
Insulin therapy, a treatment for diabetes, can cause weight gain. This article looks at the link between diabetes, insulin, and gaining weight. It also describes how to manage or prevent this potential effec...
FDA curbs unfounded memory supplement claims
I must have seen the commercial for Prevagen 50 times. Perhaps you’ve seen it, too: “You might take something for your heart… your joints… your digestion. So why wouldn’t you take something for the most important part of you… your brain? With an ingredient originally found in jellyfish! Healthier brain, better life!”
Like many heavily-advertised supplements, this one makes many claims. The bottle promises it “improves memory” and “supports: healthy...
Medical News Today: Gout: Why the stigma?
There is a stigma attached to gout, and it tends to be linked to heavy drinking and a bad diet. Here, we explore that stigma and the truth about gou...
Medical News Today: What are the best natural mosquito repellents?
Many people prefer to use natural mosquito repellents instead of chemical products. Options include citronella, peppermint, and lemongrass. Learn about the best natural mosquito repellents her...
Thursday, May 30, 2019
Medical News Today: What to know about popping joints
Joints may pop out of place for a variety of reasons, including injury. This popping is typically harmless in most cases. Certain conditions may make the feeling worse, however. Learn more about joint popping her...
Medical News Today: Tips for staying up all night
Sometimes it is necessary for people to stay up all night for work, studying, or other reasons. Tips that may help a person feel more awake and alert at night can include consuming caffeine, exercising, napping, and taking cold showers. It is also important to allow a day for recovery. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: What to know about urinary urgency
Urinary urgency is the urgent need to urinate despite not having a full bladder. It may occur alongside frequent or painful urination. Learn about the possible causes and treatment options her...
Medical News Today: How to get back on track after binge eating
Many people overeat occasionally, but there are a number of different ways to get back on track. In this article, learn about what to do after binge eating to return to a healthful routin...
Medical News Today: What are the side effects and risks of Ritalin?
Ritalin (methylphenidate) is a stimulant medication for the treatment of ADHD and narcolepsy. Ritalin can cause side effects and has the potential for misuse and addiction. Researchers are investigating the long-term safety and effectiveness of this drug in children and adolescents. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: Is leukemia hereditary?
Leukemia is a genetic condition, but in most cases, it is not hereditary. In this article, we explore the links between leukemia and family history, genetics, and lifestyle and environmental factor...
Medical News Today: What to know about neuralgia
Neuralgia is a condition that causes shooting and burning pain in the nerves. There are many types of neuralgia. Treatment options include medications and surgery. Learn more about neuralgia her...
Medical News Today: What to know about muscle atrophy
Muscle atrophy can occur due to poor nutrition, age, and genetics. Symptoms vary, and treatment may include physical therapy, functional electric stimulation, or surgery. Learn more about muscle atrophy her...
Medical News Today: Synthetic CBD may be a safe treatment for seizures
A nonintoxicating, synthetic CBD that is not easy to convert to THC and comprises inexpensive, noncannabis ingredients treated seizures safely in rat...
Medical News Today: Early-onset Alzheimer's: Is 'bad cholesterol' a factor?
A new study connects high blood levels of 'bad' cholesterol with the presence of early-onset Alzheimer's. The link, the authors suggest, could be causa...
Topical treatment helps prevent actinic keratosis from developing into skin cancer
Actinic keratoses are small, red, scaly spots that can feel like dry, sandpapery skin. They are a direct result of ultraviolet radiation, which is why they most commonly occur in sun-exposed areas, such as the face, forearms, and hands.
Why are actinic keratoses a concern? If left untreated, some actinic keratoses can develop into squamous cell skin cancers. Actinic keratosis can develop in almost 40% of white patients older than 50, making it the...
Medical News Today: Clinical trial shows why energy drinks are bad for the heart
In a clinical trial, researchers found significant changes in heart rhythm and blood pressure after volunteers consumed two different energy drink...
Medical News Today: How many calories do you burn by walking?
The number of calories the body burns while a person is walking varies according to their sex, body size, and how fast they are walking. Learn more about how many calories people burn when they are walking her...
Medical News Today: This new compound could fight potent 'superbugs'
The emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is creating a global crisis, but a newly developed compound offers fresh hope in addressing this issu...
Medical News Today: Olives: Nutrition and health benefits
Olives are a delicious snack, and they make a great addition to many popular dishes. They are also a key component of the Mediterranean diet. Learn more about their possible health benefits her...
Wednesday, May 29, 2019
Medical News Today: Chocolate and acid reflux: What's the link?
Acid reflux is a common problem. Many foods, including chocolate, can trigger symptoms. Learn more about the link between chocolate and acid reflux in this articl...
Medical News Today: What to know about blood in urine (hematuria) in females
Blood in the urine, or hematuria, may arise after an infection or injury. Some causes are specific to females or more likely to affect females than males. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: How to lower uric acid levels naturally
A uric acid buildup can sometimes lead to gout, which causes very painful symptoms. Learn about eight natural ways to lower uric acid levels in this articl...
Medical News Today: What to know about the protein test and results
Total protein tests measure the amount of protein in a person's urine or blood. In this article, we discuss the total protein test, including its uses, normal protein levels, and what abnormal levels mea...
Medical News Today: The health effects of eating maggots
A person may accidentally ingest maggots if they eat spoiled food. Although eating maggots is unlikely to cause lasting harm, it can sometimes cause bacterial poisoning. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: What is the link between asthma and pneumonia?
Asthma and pneumonia are respiratory conditions. They have different causes but similar symptoms. Learn about the connection between asthma and pneumonia, and what distinguishes them, her...
Medical News Today: What foods contain high fructose corn syrup?
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sugar alternative. Products that contain HFCS include sodas, packaged fruits, and desserts. Learn more about foods that contain HFCS, and why to avoid them, her...
Study finds flavors in e-cigs can damage cells that are critical for a healthy heart; cinnamon and menthol flavors were the most toxic
Healthline.com photo
Flavors used in electronic cigarettes damage the cells that line the inside walls of blood vessels, which ultimately increases the risk of heart disease, a study ha concluded.
The study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, exposed lab-grown endothelial cells,...
Kentucky Hospital Association asks federal appeals court to uphold state plan for work rules in Medicaid
The Kentucky Hospital Association has filed a formal statement with the Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit asking it to uphold the state's proposed work and other "community engagement" requirements in Medicaid, James Romoser reports for Inside Health Policy.
Romoser called the move "a rare example of the...
Medical News Today: What to know about premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Most females experience at least some symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). This article explores the symptoms, causes, and treatments of PMS. We also discuss when to see a doctor about symptom...
Medical News Today: What to know about clindamycin
Clindamycin is an antibiotic drug. This article provides an overview of clindamycin, including what it can treat, how much doctors recommend taking, and possible adverse effects and interaction...
Medical News Today: What to know about bumps on the cervix
Bumps on the cervix are usually benign, or noncancerous, so they do not usually need treatment. In other cases, bumps can indicate cervical cancer, which will require treatment. Learn about the causes and treatments for bumps on the cervix her...
Medical News Today: Vyvanse vs. Adderall: What to know
Vyvanse and Adderall are two drugs that treat ADHD. They have similar actions and side effects, but there are several differences. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: What to know about folate deficiency
Folate is an essential nutrient. A lack of dietary folate can cause anemia, which is especially dangerous for women during pregnancy. Learn about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of folate deficiency her...
Medical News Today: Scientists discover anti-aging potential in old drug
The discovery of a second cell target for the immunosuppressant rapamycin could help its development as an anti-aging, neuroprotective dru...
Medical News Today: Are allergies linked to anxiety and depression?
A new study finds a link between different forms of allergies and either anxiety or depression. Future research, however, must verify these association...
Are certain types of sugars healthier than others?
Most people consume many different types of sugars from a variety of foods and beverages in their diet. A high intake of sugar is linked to an increased risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers. But whether some sugars are healthier (or worse) than others remains a question of interest to many.
Sugar basics
Sugar provides energy that our cells need to survive. Sugar is a type of carbohydrate, a macronutrient that...
Viewers get scenery, not science, as CNN explores global ‘secrets’ to living longer
In CNN’s reality-based series, “Chasing Life,” correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta travels to far-flung reaches of the planet to explore health care practices rooted in cultural traditions.
The show — which is available on the streaming platform CNNgo — was produced by the same division that created Anthony Bourdain Parts Unknown,...
Medical News Today: Virus 'identity change' may play a role in Alzheimer's
A study using human biological samples and mouse models has found what can make viruses more dangerous and how some could facilitate Alzheimer'...
Medical News Today: Cancer: Proton therapy has fewer side effects than X-ray radiation
A first-of-its-kind study compares the cure rates and side effects of proton therapy and X-ray radiation for people with various forms of cance...
Medical News Today: What to do in the event of a heart attack
Symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain and shortness of breath. People should call the emergency services if they suspect a heart attack. Risk factors include age. Learn more her...
Tuesday, May 28, 2019
Medical News Today: What is 'morning wood,' and why does it happen?
"Morning wood" refers to nocturnal penile tumescence, which involves waking up in the morning with an erection. This is a normal occurrence. Changes in how often it happens can signal a health condition that may need treatment from a doctor. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: Causes and treatments for thinning hair
It is normal to experience some amount of hair thinning as people age. In other cases, there may be a medical cause. This article looks at the causes, treatments, and home remedies for thinning hai...
Medical News Today: What to know about adult-onset asthma
In most cases, people develop asthma during childhood, but it can also arise in adults. This article explores adult-onset asthma, including its causes, symptoms, management, and risk factor...
Medical News Today: Tips for sleeping better
Not getting enough sleep can negatively affect a person’s energy levels and overall health. However, making some simple changes to sleep habits can help a person sleep better. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: What to know about a blood clot in the arm
A blood clot in the arm can be a dangerous health problem. If the clot dislodges and travels to the lungs, it can block the flow of blood there, causing the tissue to die. As a result, a blood clot in the arm requires prompt treatment. Learn about the signs and symptoms of a blood clot here, as well as how to treat i...
Medical News Today: What are the benefits of sleeping naked?
Many people prefer to wear pajamas or another type of comfortable attire in bed. However, sleeping naked can help keep the body cool, which may promote better quality sleep. Sleeping naked may also have other health benefits. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: What does a hypoechoic thyroid nodule mean?
A hypoechoic thyroid nodule is a type of thyroid nodule that appears dark on an ultrasound scan and typically indicates a solid mass rather than a fluid-filled cyst. Thyroid nodules are common and most are harmless. However, they can sometimes develop into thyroid cancer. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: What to know about dissolvable stitches
The body breaks down dissolvable stitches over time, so they do not require removal. How long these stitches take to disappear depends on their type. It is important to follow the doctor’s care instructions after having dissolvable stitches. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: What happens when you mix azithromycin and alcohol?
Azithromycin is a drug that has uses in treating bacterial infections. Mixing with alcohol may cause issues including nausea, headache, and dizziness or other problems. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: Why do I keep waking up at night?
Waking up in the middle of the night is common. However, if it occurs often, it may signal the presence of an underlying condition. Sleep apnea, anxiety, and needing to urinate can all cause someone to wake up at night. Learn more about the possible causes here, along with some remedy option...
Medical News Today: Is the acrylamide in coffee harmful to health?
Coffee products that contain roasted beans contain small amounts of the compound acrylamide. There are concerns that acrylamide may be carcinogenic, but research suggests that coffee is generally safe to drink and may actually protect against a number of cancers and other conditions. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: Stroke study finds mouth bacteria in brain clots
Using DNA evidence, scientists have shown that brain clot samples from people who have had ischemic stroke often contain mouth bacteri...
Medical News Today: Veganism: Why food choice can spark rage
Veganism is growing in popularity, but the movement faces resistance. Here, we ask why the decision to follow a plant-based diet makes some people angr...
Medical News Today: How the gut immune system nourishes and protects
A new study in mice explains how the intestines are capable of letting nutrients through to the rest of the body while keeping harmful agents at ba...
Medical News Today: 10 ways to improve gut health
The gut is home to billions of microorganisms. Many of these are beneficial to overall health. In this article, learn how to promote the growth of beneficial bacteria and balance the gut microbiom...
Anxiety in college: What we know and how to cope
Even amid the rush of final exams and graduation celebrations at this time of year, college beckons with the chance to live on your own, find new friends, and explore interesting ideas. Yet for college students — as well as high school students and parents craning for a glimpse down the road — these changes can also be stressful. Overnight, college students separate from their traditional support system of family and friends. They also face many...
Medical News Today: A complete guide to B vitamins
B vitamins are a group of eight related nutrients. This article takes a close look at all of the B vitamins, including their functions, sources, and deficiency symptoms. We also discuss the best ways to take B vitamin supplement...
Medical News Today: Can a massage technique help treat acid reflux?
Using a massage technique called myofascial release, researchers reduced the severity and frequency of acid reflux in a small group of people with GER...
Medical News Today: Bipolar disorder may increase risk of Parkinson's
A recent study concludes that experiencing bipolar disorder during adulthood increases the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease later in lif...
Monday, May 27, 2019
Medical News Today: Using EEG data to diagnose Parkinson's disease
A team of researchers behind a new study believe that an EEG could be a noninvasive and affordable way to detect Parkinson’s diseas...
Medical News Today: These 5 tropical plants may 'provide anticancer benefits'
New research examined several plants that people have used to treat cancer since ancient times. The study identified five plants with anticancer benefit...
Sunday, May 26, 2019
Doctors worry FDA can't ensure quality of generics from overseas, 80% of active ingredients in U.S. drugs come from India or China
Adobe illustration adapted by The Boston Globe
Some U.S. doctors worry that the federal government is not doing a good job of policing generic prescription drugs -- which account for 90 percent of the prescription drugs Americans use, are overwhelmingly made in India or China, and are sometimes not effective, Katherine...
Medical News Today: Antibiotics may help curb Alzheimer's symptoms
A new study in mice suggests that a combination of antibiotics may reduce the buildup of amyloid plaques, but only in male brain...
Medical News Today: Plastic pollution harms oxygen-producing bacteria
New research finds that plastic pollution not only harms fish but also damages species of bacteria that produce the oxygen we breath...
Saturday, May 25, 2019
Most women with heart disease don't get enough exercise; heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in U.S.
More than half of women in the United states with heart disease aren't getting enough physical activity, and that number has increased over the past decade, a study says. In Kentucky, 4.9% of women reported they had been told by a health care provider that they had heart disease, compared to 3.2% of women nationwide, according to America's...
Ky ranks in top 10 for adverse childhood experiences; $200,000 grant will address child trauma in Lake Cumberland area
The Louisville-based Bounce Coalition has been awarded $200,000 to work with Russell County Schools and the Lake Cumberland District Health Department to help children who deal with violence, addiction and other trauma.
The Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky grant will be used to create a rural program in Russell County and...
Health cabinet says it will revise proposed rule that would have banned tattooing over scars, due to 'unintended consequences'
WFPL photo
After almost two weeks of mystery, speculation and complaints, the state Cabinet for Health and Family Services has explained in a news release why it wants to ban tattooing over scars, saying it wants to address "potential health issues of tattooing over unhealthy skin."
"The concerns are being...
Medical News Today: How does exercise support health later in life?
A new study reviews the effects of exercising in older life. Greater independence and higher self-worth are only some of the benefits of physical activit...
Medical News Today: Weighing yourself every day could prevent weight gain
New research finds that self-weighing and seeing a graphical representation of their weight changes can prompt people to lose or maintain their weigh...
Friday, May 24, 2019
Medical News Today: What is systemic lupus erythematosus?
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is the most common form of lupus. It is a chronic condition that can affect multiple tissues and organs. As a result, the symptoms of SLE vary widely. Although doctors do not know the cause, they can treat the condition with medications. Learn more about SLE her...
Medical News Today: Can probiotics help you lose weight?
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that occur naturally in the gut. Some research suggests a link between these good bacteria and a healthy weight. Learn more about probiotics for weight loss her...
Medical News Today: What to do about dry skin on the penis
Dry skin on the penis may have a variety of causes, including unlubricated sex or masturbation, eczema, or psoriasis. Many home remedies, such as moisturizers, can help. Learn more her...
Medical News Today: What types of massage are there?
There are several types of massage, such as hot stone, deep tissue, and sports massages. Benefits include relief from muscle aches and relaxation. Learn more about the different types of massages her...
Kentucky dropped one spot in latest America's Health Rankings Report for seniors, to 49th; ranked last in health outcomes
By Melissa Patrick
Kentucky Health News
A new report shows that Kentucky continues to be one of the worst states in which to grow old, which isn't great news for the one in six Kentuckians who are already over the age of 65 and the growing number of Baby Boomers who will soon fall into that category.
Kentucky ranks 49th for...
