Why fingers may hurt in colder weather
Q: I am getting more sensitive to colder weather. I am worried about the times my fingers get cold enough to hurt and throb. What are some of the possible causes? A: A likely possibility is Raynaud’s phenomenon. People with this condition have blood vessels that respond in an exaggerated way to cold. This occurs in their fingers and toes and sometimes in other parts of the... READ MORE
Leave leaves on yards to aid biodiversity
A new study finds the autumn chore of raking leaves could be a disservice to budding plant life. The National Wildlife Federation found that fallen leaves can be crucial to biodiversity. Experts find keeping leaves in a yard has a similar effect to spreading mulch. They cover roots under plants, suppress weeds, and keep the soil moist. While the group’s research finds this is common ... READ MORE
SADder in the winter? Try light therapy
Dear Mayo Clinic: Once daylight saving time ends, I find it difficult as it gets darker earlier. I also notice that I get a bit more depressed in the winter. My friend suggested a light box for seasonal affective disorder. What is a light box, and can it be helpful in improving my mood? A: Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, is a type of depression that typically occurs each year... READ MORE
One-sided headache may need attention
Q: How would a person know if a one-sided headache around the temples is just a migraine or something more serious, like temporal arteritis? A: Throbbing pain in the temples, especially on just one side of your head, is a common symptom of migraine pain. But when throbbing turns into a constant headache, and it’s accompanied by pain when you touch your temples, you need immediate... READ MORE
Fact v. fiction about our immune systems
The health of our immune systems has become front-of-mind for many over the last few years. And with that comes a lot of advice on the best way to prepare your body’s defenses for any lingering bugs. Here, we take a look at four common myths about immune health and see what the science says. 1. Your body’s defenses weaken with age. True. Research shows that as more candles top your ... READ MORE
Some unique appetizers for the holidays
As the holidays approach, add these appetizers to your entertaining repertoire. Parmesan Crisps, below, are available in grocery stores, but they are easy to make and can be prepared a week in advance. Homemade ones taste so much better, and leftovers are great on salads, soups, or with slices of pear for a little snack. In addition, Baby Brie and Fig Pies are an easy, fast appetizer... READ MORE
Test a new combo flu and Covid vaccine
When children get immunized for measles, mumps and rubella, they get one shot, known as MMR. Same with diphtheria, tetanus and acellular pertussis, or DTaP. So why not bundle the flu shot with a Covid vaccine? A study of a combined flu and Covid vaccine is under way now at Velocity Clinical Research in Rockville, Maryland. “Right now, we have a Covid vaccine and we have a ... READ MORE
Causes and treatments for ear infections
Dear Mayo Clinic: I swim for exercise and relaxation. I try to get in the pool about three times a week. Recently, I have begun to have episodes where it feels like water is still in my ear. Then my ear becomes red and painful. A friend suggested I might have swimmer’s ear. Is this something that is easy to treat? Do I need to stop swimming? A: Swimmer’s ear is an infection... READ MORE
Avoid holiday anxiety, shopping stress
The other day I realized why I feel stressed in stores lately. I feel inundated with Halloween decorations, Thanksgiving and even Christmas paraphernalia. I’m nowhere near holly or jolly right now; I’m still wearing shorts. There used to be some separation in the old days, remember that? Halloween was often the turning point in the year, but now there are shameful displays that begin ... READ MORE
Answers on chronic inflammation, earwax
Q: I hear so much about the dangers of chronic inflammation. What dietary changes can I make to reduce the risks? A: Diet plays an important role in chronic inflammation, most likely due to the ingredients in the foods and beverages we ingest and the bacteria that populate our intestines, known as our microbiome. These intestinal bacteria release chemicals that may spur or suppress... READ MORE
