Ky. Hospital Assn. gets grant for emergency-room software that tracks patient histories from other sites; could discourage 'ER hopping'

By Melissa Patrick Kentucky Health News The Kentucky Hospital Association has been awarded a $250,000 grant to equip Kentucky's emergency departments with software designed to help physicians have access to patient information from multiple sources in real time. The grant for the software, called EDie, came from Anthem...

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Medical News Today: Too much iron may cause skin infections

According to a large-scale new study, iron levels that are excessively high may cause bacterial skin infections, such as cellulitis and abscesse...

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Medical News Today: Cognitive decline: A personalized approach could be key

A new study paper focuses on developing a clearer picture of how and why cognitive decline occurs, and how doctors could treat it in a personalized wa...

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One Affordable Care Act insurer in Kentucky wants a 12% rate hike next year, the other one has asked for a drop of 4.5%

By Melissa Patrick Kentucky Health News One of the two insurers offering government-subsidized individual health plans in Kentucky for 2020 is asking for a 12 percent increase, while the other is asking for a 4.5% decrease. Insurers offering plans for small groups under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act are asking...

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Program that addresses childhood trauma and teaches resilience shows results in Louisville; expanding to Lake Cumberland area

By Melissa Patrick Kentucky Health News A pilot program in several Louisville elementary schools that focused on building resiliency in children who suffer from childhood trauma saw results: fewer students with behavior referrals, improved staff skills, increased parental participation and increased teacher retention -- and...

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Picnic season has arrived in Ky, which calls for extra food-safety precautions; CDC offers four rules to follow: Clean, Separate, Cook and Chill

By Melissa Patrick Kentucky Health News Summer picnic and barbecue season is in full swing, which also means it's the season for an uptick in the number of people who get food borne illnesses, which most people call food poisoning. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, each year in the U.S., about 48...

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State Sen. Ralph Alvarado, Bevin's running mate and a physician, agrees with him that state shouldn't require kids to be vaccinated

State Sen. Ralph Alvarado and Gov, Matt Bevin bumped fists as they filed in January. (Photo: Mark Mahan, Lexington Herald-Leader) Gov. Matt Bevin's running mate for lieutenant governor told a Northern Kentucky Tea Party group June 27 that he agrees with Bevin on immunization policy, that government shouldn't require...

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Medical News Today: Letter from the Editor: It's good to laugh

In this month's letter, Managing Editor Honor reveals what the MNT editorial team got up to for their annual summer event, and it might just make you chuckl...

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Medical News Today: How childhood viral infections may later drive multiple sclerosis

Based on a study in mice, researchers now suggest that transient viral infections in childhood may facilitate multiple sclerosis development later in lif...

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Medical News Today: Exercise may increase lifespan 'regardless of past activity levels'

New research finds that becoming more active significantly lowers a person's death risk, regardless of how active they have been in the pas...

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Medical News Today: What to know about bronchodilators

Bronchodilators are drugs that open the airways, relieving the symptoms of respiratory conditions, such as asthma and emphysema. This article looks at how they work, types, and how to take the...

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Medical News Today: Can Rick Simpson oil help treat cancer?

Rick Simpson oil is a cannabis extract with high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. Some people claim that this oil can help treat cancer. Although there is little to no evidence to suggest that it can cure cancer directly, it may have some use as a complementary treatment. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: 11 ways to treat back pain without surgery

Doctors often find chronic back pain challenging to treat, but there are many nonsurgical options that people can try. We discuss 11 methods here, including chiropractic care, acupuncture, and exercise...

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Medical News Today: What to know about end-stage COPD

The symptoms of end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) include frequent lung infections, difficulty eating, and shortness of breath. Coping methods typically include palliative care and open discussions. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: A complete guide to home nebulizer therapy

Home nebulizers are an effective way to deliver medicine into the airways. Learn more about home nebulizer therapy here, including how to use the equipmen...

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Medical News Today: What are the best meat substitutes?

A variety of meat substitutes are available, including tofu, tempeh, and seitan. Learn about the nutritional value of these and other meat substitutes her...

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Medical News Today: How do breasts change during and after pregnancy?

Changes in the breasts are a regular occurrence during and after pregnancy. Breast changes vary from person to person and can occur whether a woman breastfeeds or not. Learn more about the types of changes and when they may signal an underlying conditio...

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Medical News Today: Breathing treatments: Everything you need to know

Many different types of breathing treatment are available, including bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and antimicrobial drugs. Learn more about these and other treatments her...

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Medical News Today: Are abortions painful?

Abortions are generally very safe but may cause some pain, cramping, or other side effects. Every woman’s experience is different and the level of pain depends on the type of abortion. Here, we discuss whether abortions hurt and how to manage any discomfor...

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Medical News Today: What to know about ADHD misdiagnosis

The symptoms of ADHD tend to resemble those of other conditions, which may result in a misdiagnosis. Some characteristics of ADHD may also be symptoms of other conditions. Learn more about why a doctor might misdiagnose ADHD her...

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Medical News Today: CBD oil for ADHD: Does it work?

CBD oil is a popular alternative remedy for a variety of medical conditions. In this article, learn about whether it can help treat ADHD and whether it is safe for children to us...

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Does Tar Soap Actually Help Treat Psoriasis?

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Medical News Today: Is ADHD genetic? Everything you need to know

In this article, learn about the latest research on genetics and ADHD, which includes studies looking at whether the children of parents with ADHD are more likely to develop the same conditio...

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Medical News Today: What causes a bad smell in the nose?

Causes of a bad smell in the nose include sinusitis, mouth or tooth infections, and certain foods and drinks. Learn more about what might cause a bad smell in the nose, and what to do about it, her...

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Medical News Today: Can nonsmokers get COPD?

It is possible for people who don’t smoke to develop chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It may develop due to exposure to secondhand smoke, industrial fumes, or other toxins. Learn more about COPD in people who don’t smoke her...

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Are Those Flakes Dandruff or Psoriasis?

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Medical News Today: Morning people may have lower breast cancer risk

A large study of women found that those with a morning preference were less likely to have or develop breast cancer than those with an evening preferenc...

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Medical News Today: Obesity: How diet changes the brain and promotes overeating

In a study in mice, researchers found that neurons that normally signal to the brain to stop eating are less active in obese animal...

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Medical News Today: Is a diabetes drug the key to aggressive breast cancer?

The blood sugar-lowering drug metformin changes how cancer stem cells use and metabolize energy, making them more vulnerable to a new treatmen...

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Medical News Today: Are our brains addicted to information?

New research suggests that our brains may be addicted to information via a mechanism similar to the one involved in compulsive snackin...

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Colorectal cancer screening before age 50?

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. There is strong evidence that screening for CRC with colonoscopy, other visual exams, or stool-based tests can reduce CRC mortality. As a result, several expert organizations have long recommended regular CRC screening for US adults ages 50 to 75. In 2018, the American Cancer Society (ACS) became the first major organization to recommend CRC screening starting...

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Medical News Today: Hospital flies carry enough 'bugs' of their own to cause infection

New research reveals that flying insects that make their way into hospitals can carry many harmful bacteria able to cause dangerous infection...

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Medical News Today: Should I worry about breast calcifications?

Breast calcifications are small deposits of calcium that can appear in the breast tissue. These are visible on mammograms and most are typically benign. Some forms, however, may indicate a form of cancer. Learn more about why they form and what happens if they appear on an X-ra...

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Medical News Today: How to manage diabetes

A person can manage their diabetes by making healthful changes to their diet, exercising frequently, and regularly taking the necessary medications. Here, learn about these self-management strategies and mor...

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Medical News Today: What is the link between Vyvanse and hypersexuality?

Vyvanse is a brand of amphetamine that doctors may prescribe for ADHD or binge eating disorder (BED). Some research links amphetamine use to hypersexuality, and both ADHD and BED may also affect sexual function. Learn more about the symptoms of hypersexuality and the effects of the drug her...

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National foundation study estimates Medicaid work rules would lead to 86,000 to 136,000 in Ky. losing coverage the first year

Commonwealth Fund chart, adapted by Kentucky Health News; click on it for a larger version If Kentucky and eight other states persuade federal courts to let them add work requirements to their Medicaid programs, Kentucky would lose more people from its Medicaid rolls than any of the states but Michigan, says a study...

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Medical News Today: Causes and treatment of pimples in the armpit

The many sweat glands and hair follicles in the armpits make them prone to pimples and other skin issues. In this article, we look at the types, causes, and treatment of armpit pimple...

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Medical News Today: Stem cell therapy for rheumatoid arthritis

Stem cell therapy may help reduce inflammation and build up healthy cells in the body. Scientists are now investigating whether it may benefit autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: What are the different types of abortion?

There are several types of abortion, including medical abortion, vacuum aspiration, dilation and evacuation, and induced labor. The type that a doctor recommends will depend on the duration of the pregnancy. Learn more her...

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Snack on This! The Ultimate Diabetes Snack Guide

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Medical News Today: What is survivor's guilt?

When a person survives a traumatic event that other people did not, they may experience feelings of guilt. Survivor's guilt is a common symptom of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Tips for coping with survivor's guilt include connecting with others and practicing mindfulness. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: What is argyria?

Argyria is a condition in which the skin or mucous membranes turn blue or gray. It occurs when a person comes into contact with excessive amounts of silver, and it can affect either the whole body or small localized areas. Learn more about the symptoms, causes, and treatment options her...

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Drink This! Diabetes-Friendly Drinks for Any Occasion

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Medical News Today: Could a plant based diet be the answer to Crohn's disease?

Following a plant based diet helped one man with Crohn's disease achieve complete remission after a year of standard treatment had failed to do s...

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This Is What an All-Nighter Does to Your Body

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Why You Feel Groggy After a Nap — and 4 Ways to Snooze Like a Pro

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Nourish, Repair, Protect, Transform. 6 Skin Savers That Do It All

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Medical News Today: Serotonin deficiency could explain 'imaginary' somatic condition

New research suggests that a genetic mutation affecting serotonin levels could be the cause of otherwise medically unexplained pain symptom...

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McConnell bill to raise tobacco age to 21 passes first hurdle, with controversial provision requiring states to follow suit

By Melissa Patrick Kentucky Health News U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell's bill to raise from 18 to 21 the nationwide minimum age to buy all tobacco products, including electronic cigarettes, has passed the Senate health committee. It includes a controversial provision that some say could leave an opening for the...

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Trouble reading? Try these workarounds

Once you learn how to read, it’s easy to take the skill for granted. Like breathing or walking, we don’t give the ability much thought unless it begins to deteriorate. But trouble reading can develop at any age for a variety of reasons, including difficulty concentrating, mild cognitive impairment, and physical changes. Mental roadblocks can cause trouble reading Fuzzy thinking and difficulty concentrating can get in the way of reading. “If your...

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Medical News Today: Sitting at home or at work: Which is worse for heart health?

New research in an African American cohort suggests that not all types of sedentary behavior are equally risky for cardiovascular healt...

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Medical News Today: What to know about autism in girls

The symptoms of autism in girls are mostly the same as they are in boys, though autistic girls may exhibit certain behaviors less often than autistic boys. Because autism is more common among boys, doctors may be more likely to miss a diagnosis in girls. Learn more about symptoms and diagnosis her...

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Medical News Today: Osteoporosis: Investigating the role of a common antibacterial chemical

A new study asks if triclosan, a chemical in many products, may increase osteoporosis risk. The results are not clear-cut, but it may affect bone healt...

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Medical News Today: What to know about the endomorph diet

People with the endomorph body type can gain weight quickly. For this reason, they may wish to avoid processed foods and those with a high fat content. Certain types of exercise are also beneficial for people with endomorphic bodies. Learn more about the endomorph diet her...

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Medical News Today: What to know about nipple reconstruction surgery

After a mastectomy, people can choose to have breast or nipple reconstruction surgery. This article looks at the types, risks, and costs associated with nipple reconstruction surger...

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At opioid summit, Chamber urges employers to update policies, beseeches legislature to reduce penalties for simple possession

The Kentucky Chamber of Commerce is calling on the state's business community to update its drug and alcohol policies to bring more help to their employees who suffer from addictions, and keep working to get state legislators to downgrade criminal penalties for simple drug possession. Kentucky Chamber of Commerce...

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Medical News Today: What to know about modified radical mastectomy

A modified radical mastectomy is a less intensive surgery to treat breast cancer than a radical mastectomy. Here, we give an overview, including what the operation is, what to expect, and recover...

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Medical News Today: Potential causes of cold fingers

Possible causes of cold fingers include anemia, medication side effects, and psychological conditions, such as stress. Treating the underlying cause can often resolve this symptom. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: Why do I have tight jaw muscles? Causes and relief

Tight jaw muscles often occur due to stress, anxiety, injury, or overusing the jaw joint. In other cases, it may signal a medical condition. Learn about causes of jaw tightness and ways to relieve the tension her...

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Medical News Today: Rheumatoid arthritis and hair loss: What is the link?

People with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may experience hair loss as a symptom of the disease or due to medication that they are taking. If medication is the cause, a person may be able to switch to an alternative drug to stop the hair loss. Learn more about the link between RA and hair loss her...

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A Diabetes-Friendly Shopping List for Anyone Looking to Cut Back on Sugar

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Medical News Today: What to know about skin paleness

Paleness can occur in light or dark skin. A range of health issues may underlie it, including anemia, bleeding, and certain vitamin deficiencies. Learn more about health-related causes of skin paleness her...

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Why a Haircut Feels Like Sorcery — and Therapy

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Medical News Today: What causes irritability?

Many factors can cause irritability, including life stress, depression, a lack of sleep, and premenstrual syndrome. In this article, we look at the possible causes of irritability and tips for managing i...

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Medical News Today: What to know about Rogaine for beards and women

Rogaine may help slow hair loss and promote hair growth. However, using it for beards and in women is not necessarily safe or effective. Learn more about using Rogaine for beards and women her...

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Men’s Health Month is a medical marketing marvel

As a kid, I remember the song, “June is bustin’ out all over” from the musical Carousel. These days, June is Men’s Health Month, and with it comes some helpful reminders. But Twitter is bustin’ out all over with balderdash, baloney and BS on many men’s health topics. If you visit the #MensHealthMonth hashtag on Twitter you...

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Essential Oils for Psoriasis: Is This for Real, or Wishful Thinking?

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Medical News Today: Scientists track Parkinson's journey from gut to brain in mice

In a mouse model of Parkinson's disease, scientists can now track the journey of toxic protein from the gut to the brain via the vagus nerv...

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The Key to Turning Your Daily Walk into a Legit Workout

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Medical News Today: Bipolar: Experts urge better initial care

Specialists reveal that people with bipolar disorder have to wait for a long time for a diagnosis, and that they fail to receive appropriate initial car...

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Showering daily — is it necessary?

Do you shower or bathe daily? If you do, you’re not alone. Approximately two-thirds of Americans shower daily. In Australia it’s over 80%. But in China, about half of people report bathing only twice a week. In the US, the daily shower tends to start around puberty and becomes lifelong. But have you ever stopped to ask yourself why? Perhaps your answer is: “because it’s healthier than showering less often.” Think again. For many — perhaps most —...

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Medical News Today: Statins may double the risk of type 2 diabetes

New research examines the risk of receiving a type 2 diabetes diagnosis among those who are taking statins to lower their cholestero...

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Medical News Today: Hypertension: Looking beyond the classic risk factors

In a recent study, scientists have investigated the impact of the environment where we live on the risk of developing hypertension and metabolic syndrom...

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Medical News Today: What to know about cyclosporine

Cyclosporine is a prescription drug that works to suppress the immune system. It can help treat rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis. This article looks at its uses, dosage, side effects, and risk...

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Medical News Today: What to know about shellfish allergies

Many people are allergic to shellfish. The symptoms can be mild or severe and may include wheezing, coughing, and confusion. Learn more about the symptoms of a shellfish allergy her...

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Medical News Today: Risks of dying from pneumonia

Pneumonia is a disease that can kill. Risk factors include age, with very young children and older adults at a higher risk than others. Existing medical conditions are another risk factor. However, people can also recovery from pneumonia. Learn more her...

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Medical News Today: What to know about congestion in babies

Congestion is common in babies, often affecting the nose or chest. It is usually harmless but can be uncomfortable. In this article, we look at the causes of and treatments for baby congestio...

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Ulcerative Colitis Diet: Your Colon Will Thank You for This

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Medical News Today: What to know about Xeljanz

Xeljanz is a prescription medication that treats rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ulcerative colitis. This article provides an overview of its uses, how it works, and side effect warning...

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Ulcerative Colitis Diet: Your Colon Will Thank You for This

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Medical News Today: What to know about sugar in fruit

Fruit contains natural sugar. Although natural sugar is good for health, it is important to remember that consuming fruit juices and canned fruit can increase overall sugar intake. Learn more about the sugar in fruit her...

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The Dirty (and Not so Dirty) Dozen of Beauty

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Medical News Today: What are the best ways to eat more protein?

Protein is an important part of anyone’s diet. A person can increase the amount of protein that they consume in various ways, including eating certain foods, trying supplements, and possibly by eating at specific times. Learn more her...

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Tick-borne disease in Ky. is relatively rare, but does occur; best defense against these tiny disease-carrying vectors is prevention

Top three tick posters from a contest that was held by the Kentucky Department of Public Health and the Northern Kentucky Health Department and attracted more than 700 entries By Melissa Patrick Kentucky Health News Ticks and summertime go hand-in-glove, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy outdoor summer activities;...

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Medical News Today: What is pursed lip breathing?

Pursed lip breathing is a breathing technique that can help people get more air into their lungs. This technique may be particularly beneficial for people with respiratory conditions, such as COPD. Learn more about the benefits of pursed lip breathing and how to do it her...

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Medical News Today: Could certain gut bacteria protect against food allergy?

New research shows that babies with food allergy have missing gut bacteria. Giving the bacteria to allergy-prone mice protected them from the diseas...

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I Learned the Hard Way That Weight Loss Surgery Isn’t a Fix — It’s a Tool

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I Tried A Crystal Dildo... and It Wasn't *Not* Magical

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Thunderclap headache: The “worst headache of my life”

Not all headache disorders are the same. An excruciating, sudden-onset headache known as thunderclap headache (TCH) is a medical emergency, very different from more common headache disorders such as migraine and tension headache. If you develop TCH, you should call 911 or immediately go to the closest hospital. TCH is associated with a variety of causes, ranging from benign to potentially fatal. Urgent evaluation in an emergency setting is needed...

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